July 12, 2007
Waianae hot spot
The catch is stowed on ice in the hold. The gear is clean and organized. By the time they’re back in the harbor, their day is almost done. They can relax, the most rigorous part of their day behind them. They’ve probably already had a few beers on the way back in, but the serious fishermen save the serious drinking until the boat is out of the water and they’re done with the perils of the sea for the day. The ones who left before dawn will arrive back at the harbor long before lunchtime. If they have “other” jobs, an Employment screening would show salt water, not drugs, running through their veins.
The boat washing station is a social gathering spot where fish tales are told, with the proof on ice to back them up. They’re rivals for the catch, especially at tournament time, but everyone is best friends after a good run. Laughter bounces off of finberglass hulls and grown men are not above a good water fight. They’ll be back to work soon, selling their marlin and ahi or cutting it into slabs for the freezer. But right now, just for these few minutes, they’re boys again and school’s just let out.
Technorati Tags: boats, fishing, fishermen, harbor, Hawaii, photos, Waianae, Waianae Boat Harbor
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July 13th, 2007 at 4:47 am, Tiffany Says:
MAn that is so true. I have been on the docks, when I lived in fla, when men like this came in and your description is perfect. Just like young boys at the end of a school day. Hanging out by the bike rack.
July 13th, 2007 at 8:47 am, Laane Says:
What a great description of how it is.
Have a great weekend!
July 13th, 2007 at 10:15 am, Yvie Says:
Hi Skeet! It’s me, Yvie from the PPP boards. I just had to come and visit your blog since you were so kind to post a reply to my intro. I really like your blog so I’m adding you to my blogroll. How ironic that this post of yours that I’m commenting on features the Waianae Boat Harbor because my Dad is a long-time ocean fisherman and he’s been launching his boat from there ever since it first opened. Take care and I look forward to reading your future posts.
July 13th, 2007 at 11:27 am, Tricia Says:
Love the photos Skeet. I haven’t spent much time around fishermen or docks but what you’ve described sounds pretty much how I’d thought it would be.
July 13th, 2007 at 4:06 pm, Whim Says:
I so missed soaking up the culture you share and seeing your beautiful pics!
July 15th, 2007 at 5:43 am, Chubby Mommy Says:
You’re so right about the serious fishermen waiting until they’re back at the dock to start their serious drinking! My brother worked on a boat like this for a few years, and one of the first lessons he learned was that the weather can change on the ocean in a heartbeat. Getting caught already buzzed out in the middle of nowhere is just too dangerous!
July 16th, 2007 at 5:38 pm, Russ Says:
What a great description of how it is.
Have a great weekend!