Heeeyho Readers! How about minimalism while enjoying our hobbies?
{Pheeeew}. I've spent half a day fiddling with Ubuntu to find a way to run Photoshop. Failed. Then I tried Gimp — the open source alternative to Adobe's software —, but couldn't use some Photoshop-like tools without installing plug-ins. In utter desperation to write, I've decided to go with unedited photos (sorry, readers!) until a solution falls from heaven. Easiest way seems to run Windows alongside Ubuntu. Any other ideas? Gotta think about it later.
To today's post, shall we?
Bikefishing
No, I'm not going out fishing bikes. {Duh}. Bikefishing is a concept of minimalist fishing, allying cycling and fishing. It consists of carrying only the essentials, as lightweight as possible, and with lesser volume. The goal is to open a whole new level of possibilities to my future bicycle trip. Some wild, classic Mr.P adventure is coming soon.
I cycled to the breakwaters to test the idea. The breakwaters built in the 19th century safeguard ships entering the port of Rio Grande (second largest in Brazil), meaning they form a canal advancing almost 4 kilometers into the sea. The place is an absolute fishing hotspot due to its length and the access — either on food, bicycle, or on sail trolleys named vagonetas.
The breakwaters
The end of the breakwaters
Only the last 700 meters is not paved. This extension was added in 2010, occasion when the lighthouses were also advanced farther into the sea. Rocks and concrete tetrapod (see below) form the extension.
The very tip ahead
Concrete tetrapod marking where the old lighthouse was once located
The rock of good luck
My favorite rock was actually occupied already, so I picked another spot. The secret to fishing here is finding a rock that forms a platform, preferably where you can easily climb in and out.
The fishing spot
One of the touristic attractions at the breakwaters are the sail trolleys. These rail carts use the wind to carry people up and down. Fishermen who plan to spend the night can also rent a cart. It comes in handy when carrying loads of equipment; not the case this time.
Approaching sail trolley
Little bait thief
I aimed at minimalist fishing this time. I love carrying an entire fishing box, multiple reels and rods. However, I need to maximize space while minimizing weight in my future bicycle trips. The photo below represents all the gear in one shot.
Sonder goes fishing
The gear
I used parts of my salt water fishing gear and brought natural fishing lure in a thermal bag. The unanswered question: How am I gonna carry natural lure on a bicycle trip? Impossible. I'll have to figure this out. I'll also have to find a balanced setup between heavy-duty sea equipment and lightweight ones. On a longer trip I'd sacrifice casting distance (heavier equipment) in favor of lighter, smaller rods. Gotta test and see.
The gear
Here I have:
- Shrimp and Corrupto (Callichirus major) as lures
- One three-part 3,6 meters carbon fiber fishing rod
- One medium profile baitcaster
- Pair of pliers
- One spool of monofilament fishing line (spare)
- A small box with essentials (hooks, sinkers, Swiss knife, spinners, etc)
This is what I'm taking on my next bicycle trip along the coast of southern Brazil. The goal is to camp, fish, and explore lighthouses. Even though light enough, I could go lighter by committing sacrifices — casting distance being on top. Beach fishing requires longer fishing rods to cast behind the breaking waves; longer rods means more weight.
Baitcaster on 3,6m rod
Small catch
Action was... average. Definitely seen better days. My hook size aimed for bigger catches, but the five-kilo fish didn't show up this time around. It's fine. For a minimalist fishing day it was satisfying. I didn't miss any piece of equipment. It was also a great internet detox; just myself out there enjoying the Sunday.
Calling it a day
The best part of bikefishing is the ability to reach different fishing spots without worrying about the car or having to carry loads of fishing gear. Effortless cycle in; cycle out. I believe it's gonna be epic when combining bikefishing and bikepacking. The backcrountry awaits!
I should hit the road soon if the weather stabilizes . There are 21 lighthouses to explore along the coast, most of them in remote areas. This new expedition will bring Mr.P back to its miserable moments readers are used to. Stay tunned.
Until next time.
Peace.
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~Love ya all,
Disclaimer: The author of this post is a convict broke backpacker, who has travelled more than 10.000 km hitchhiking and more than 5.000 km cycling. Following him may cause severe problems of wanderlust and inquietud. You've been warned.