Fishing has been a way of life for husband Paul, myself and our daughters for a long period of time.

The joy of reeling in the first catch of the day usually leads to a lot of discussion and an increased concentration to catch the next one in order to win the bragging rights for the day.

Fishing provides us with opportunities to spend special time together as a family where discussions flow and ebb on every issue you can think of; from great fishing to organising the week ahead.

When the weather is right we go out in our boat to Port Phillip Bay to see who can catch the biggest and best fish.

There is no trouble rallying our family for an early start and we have spent many early mornings heading out from the boat ramp to make sure we are on the ‘spot’ ready for the bite. While waiting for the fish to bite we have coffee and breakfast: pancakes or bacon and egg rolls… Yum!

It is our daughters, keen to be out on the water and put their fishing skills into action, who often drive our family’s busy fishing schedule.

Once out on the water our biggest challenge is to avoid the elbows when a reel screams off and grab the rod!

Bragging rights for the day are also special and the smell of the salt air, great views and having some quiet time sure beats being inside trapped on the TV screen.

Of course once home, working out the agreed recipe and cooking the catch of the day is part of our family’s fishing experience.

 We just love Port Phillip Bay!