Old Gaffers Association of BC - AGM

This past Saturday evening I had the pleasure of attending the Old Gaffers Association (OFA) of BC annual general meeting.  The Old Gaffers Association was started in the UK in 1963 to promote the gaff rigged and traditional sailboats (www.oldgaffersassociation.org) and has local chapters throughout the world.  The OGA of BC chapter  (gaffers-canada.ning.com) has been active for a couple of years and although a relatively small group they are quite active and very welcoming to this first timer.

Jamie pipes in the executive committee

The meeting was fun as the group observes traditions such as bag piping in of the executive committee and toasts to the Queen and Canada.  Discussed were plans for  the coming year and gaff rig related items locally and nationally.  After the official AGM we all sat down to a lovely pot luck dinner with much boat talk.  I enjoyed reconnecting with past sailing mates Jamie and Curtis as well as meeting some new keen trailer sailors.

Not Really Marine Equipment, But Useful On A Small Sailboat Post #3

Ice Fishing Rod

Ice fishing rod?  Yes, but not for ice fishing (not for me anyways).  I bought this several years ago with the idea that the boys could use it to try a little jigging for shinners and such while at anchor or from the dock.  It is made in Finland and though simple in design, quite well made.  The mini rod length would be easier to stow and should allow for fewer jabbing accidents amongst the  crew.
The fishing thing never took off but what I did was to attach a lead ball weight to the line and it has become a very handy depth sounder.  I just release the drag until the weight touches down and two cranks of the reel pulls in almost exactly one metre of line.  Count the cranks and divide by two.  Guess I always have the option of dropping a hook...