Gulf Coast Mariner Boating & Fishing

www.gulfcoastmariner.com

By Capt. David C. Dillman galvestonbaycharterfishing.com (832) 228-8012

THESEASON

Can you say unsettled weather? We could call last Summer’s weather unsettled! Could it have been caused by climate change or global warming? Whatever you called it, one thing is certain, Hurricane season is here! Seems like the season just ended, now here we go again. Last year was a busy one. It was devastating to our neighbors East of Texas. God spared the coast of Texas from a direct hit by a major storm, but they still caused problems along our coast. Mainly coastal flooding, directly along the coast and inland bays. The question is, are you prepared for this year’s season? Another active season is forecast. I had to evacuate the island twice last year. I really was not prepared, for the first evacuation order. I had to rush out, buy supplies, even plywood for my windows and doors. It was anything but fun! This year, I will be ready. Here is a simple checklist of supplies, you should have immediately available this season.

1. Flashlights and extra batteries 2. Candles 3. Water 4. Non-perishable food 5. Prescription medicine needed 6. First aid kit 7. Pet food/supplies 8. Blankets/sheets/pillow 9. Ditch Bag containing clothes, insurance papers, expensive jewelry, toiletries etc. 10. Cash! 11. Written evacuation plan 12. Plywood! If needed.

Everybody’s needs are different. This is just something to go by. Pass it along to your neighbors and friends. The so-called storm forecast experts have no idea where they will make landfall. The Gulf is forecast to be active. Taking precautions now will lessen the stress and anxiety associated with a coming storm. Take it from me, I learned this the hard way. First and foremost, take care of your personal property and family. Your employer can wait, unless you are on the front line. Remember, run from the water, hide from the wind! I have been writing for this magazine and the old Gulf Coast Mariner for about 6 years. I really enjoy writing and God has given me a chance to write for another publication. On June 1, 2021, I took over as the correspondent for the Reel Report column in The Daily News (formerly Galveston Daily News). Capt. Joe Kent is retired after 15 years. I will also be contributing a feature article once a week. I am excited about this opportunity! Until the next issue, many blessings to you and your families.

RAPALA X-RAP

TWITCHIN’ MULLET

SPECIFICATIONS

WEIGHT: 5/16 oz. (model 06) | LENGTH: 2.5 inches

This smaller size of the Rapala X-Rap® Twitchin’ Mullet is an excellent choice when trout and redfish are feeding on small or newly hatched baitfish. A common phenomenon during the spring. This subsurface hardbait sinks to a depth of 1 -2 feet and can be retrieved at a moderately fast pace for a subsurface walk-the-dog action, or twitched and paused to entice sow trout. This is also a great lure for shallow marshes and grass flats. The inline VMC hooks produce good hook-up ratios and reduce fouling from vegetation.

COLOR: Gold Olive (Available in 16 other colors) www.rapala.com