Anglesey Catshark Survey- 30th - 31st July 2022
The last week of July is “Shark Week” and, as part of “The Great Shark Snapshot” which took place between 24th to 31st July, Phil kindly agreed to include some shallow dives which would allow us to record shark species around Anglesey.
Phil and Tim prepped and check the Rhibs mid-week before towing them to Anglesey on Friday evening. As the forecast predicted moderate SW winds and swell the decision was taken to launch from Traeth Bychan.
Saturday
We met at 9am to kit up and launch the Rhibs. The survey date coincided with strong spring tides which limited the dive sites. We dived Moelfre Island in the morning and Dulas Island, accompanied by a large colony of seals, in the afternoon. Vis was limited (1/2m) The water temperature was 16C. Dive experiences differed widely. Alison and Loz spotted 5 Cat Sharks on their first dive and got photographic evidence for the survey. Wilf and Mark had a 60 minutes second dive with no current and a variety of marine life including a Snake Pipefish. Steve and Helen had a fast drift to end theirs, Phil Tim and I had a very fast boulder bouncing, now you see me, now you don’t, DSMB’s up drift dive.
A smooth recovery ended a long day. We met at The Valley Hotel in the evening.
Sunday
A hassle-free launch again at Traeth Bychan to dive the bow section of The Kincorth which lies upright in 35m of water, on a sand and gravel seabed. Phil located and shotted the wreck (twice as the first time it had dragged in the current). The dive time was limited to 30 minutes as the slack water window was short. The first buddy pair went in just as the tide slackened and the second started their dive on slack and finished with a drift as the current picked up. Slick change overs were essential to make the most of the slack water window.
The wreck was covered in plumose anemones and home to shoals of Bib. We also spotted Poor Cod, Pollack, Tom Pot Blennies and Sand Eels. Vis was a decent 5m, and better without a torch when looking across the whole structure. A good day diving in the sunshine.
We recovered the Rhibs without any problems before de-kitting them in the car park. We said our goodbyes at 4pm before Phil and Tim towed the boats back to the club where the engines were flushed and the boats washed down before we headed home.
Thanks to Phil for the planning and organisation (meticulous as always). Tim and Phil for towing and buddies Alison, Loz, Mark, Wilf, Steve and Helen for an enjoyable weekend of diving.
Pat S
Bib & plumrose anemones on the stern section of The Kinkorth