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This time of year brings many a weak capital kayaker to their knees. Snapper down the coast, Trout in the mountains... It's a tough choice. Works been rather pressing so when the chance for a road trip came up on a Sunday with a few mates I offered up the kayak trailer and away we went. Was great to see the trailer full to the brim with kayaks once more with three on the bars and one on the Roof. It was a bit of a Hobie affair with a Pro Angler, a Quest, an Outback and even a Sport ready to rock a ruckus on Lake Jindabyne.
With all these kayaks the logistics put us a little behind the 8 ball when it came to departure times, nothing a gentlemen's start couldn't fix. About 60km out of town the one thing you dread and fear when travelling en route to the snowies happened, nope not a snow bunny but the other furry thing. A massive roo decided it was time to meet its maker by spearing into the side of the trailer. HUge and heavy it was still no match and unfortunately died on impact, hitting the wheel arch of the trailer at 100kmph. The trailer was a little mangled but nothing compared to the poor Kangaroo.
One of the intrepid travellers is in fact a Vet so it was comforting knowing that Brant had checked over the roo for offspring and dispatch if required (Not needed fortunately). We did eventually make it to the lake after some tense moments and the fish, well, we must of missed the chew. I managed a sub 20cm model on a jointed Rapala, Sibbo caught a nice 40cm specimen on a Tassive Devil (Brown Bomber) and Jason snared a feed on some Powerbait (Chunky Cheese).
The return home was also interesting, the trailers chain had long dragged the whole way and was discovered virtually worn through (SO that's what the tinkling sound was?). Also due to the fact the trailer was being towed by a car much lower than it was built for, Jason's Hobie Quests Rudder met an end on my Garage roof. Ah yes it was one of those days, but you have to have them once in a while right?
The chain and Kayak rudder were avoidable incidents due to an oversight on my behalf (Live and let learn) but the roo was just sheer bad luck. If you are travelling to the snow this year, or the alpine lakes please take care whilst on the road. The amount of Kangaroos littering the sides of the highway (Both dead and alive) is of annual concern, its not called the killing season for nothing. Be aware at all times, install a roo deterrent sound omitting device, or just don't twist your roof rack tie down straps. That annoying hum caused by 100kmph travel with a kayak in tow could just save your life.
