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November Issue
Highlights
BE THANKFUL FOR BLESSINGS
November is a special month; the weather is generally very favorable with tons of stuff to do in the outdoors. The cooler weather makes for some of the best fishing of the year and many seasoned anglers consider this month a prelude to the highly anticipated trophy trout season. Redfish run in schools and seem to be available just about anywhere bait is plentiful. Flounder, too, are especially plentiful this time of year, although they are protected from November 1 through December 14 to promote escapement to spawning grounds in the gulf… still lots of fun to catch, though!
And it is also hunting season! Deer and waterfowl seasons will be open all across Texas. Lots of folks will put fishing on a back burner the next couple of months, concentrating instead on harvesting some prime venison and heavy straps of birds. Which is rationalized in the minds of many through the logic that says – we can fish any time we want but we can only hunt during hunting season. Diehard anglers who never miss a beat during hunting season are the beneficiaries of bays virtually empty of boat traffic and fishing pressure. November also brings us Veteran’s Day and Thanksgiving Day,
two important days heavily steeped in American tradition, and two uniquely American days that we should all be immensely proud to continue celebrating.
Veteran’s Day is celebrated on November 11 each year and commemorates the contribution toward American freedom made by the men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. I salute all who have served and am of the opinion that the whole of November should be declared Veteran’s Month, not just one day. I do believe they have earned it.
The origin of Thanksgiving in America can be traced to colonial times and has been celebrated variously since the 1620s when we are told Pilgrims celebrated a successful corn harvest with their Native American allies. Feasting has always been at the heart of the celebration, but I often wonder whether modern-day Americans are as mindful as they should be that it all began with giving thanks to the Almighty for the many blessings he has bestowed. Our blessings are many, not the least of which are liberty, freedom, and the pursuit of happiness.
As you join with family and friends around your Thanksgiving table this year, I encourage that we remember to give thanks for all the wonderful blessings we might sometimes take for granted. Look around at all the strife and chaos elsewhere in the world. And then remember to give thanks that you live in the greatest nation the world has ever known.
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Focus Areas & Tips
This particular bayou drain has just about every characteristic possible for fall success, including live oyster patches and eccentric drop-offs!
for Fall Fishing
STORY BY STEVE HILLMAN
As big as the Galveston Bay Complex is it tends to fish somewhat small at times. All summer I seem to find success in the same two or three areas within each major bay of the complex as the somewhat stationary trout schools basically reside over the same structure during that period, usually May through August. I typically just rotate my crops so as to not wear out one area. Therefore, barring any excessive freshwater events, our summertime trout are very predictable. They may not be on every street corner but they are at least pretty easy to find and catch.
Then there’s September, when trout are in flux as they travel from their warm weather haunts to their fall locales. A similar migration pattern can even hold true for early October. Some fish can still be caught in their summertime spots while others are filtering into fall areas, but most seem to be hung up somewhere in between. There’s more school bus fishing during this time, meaning that we typically have to run more routes while picking up one trout here and two trout there, compared to just anchoring on the corner of an oyster reef and catching dozens. We’re usually pleased with the results at the end of the trip but I sometimes have to burn twice as much gas in comparison to the period of time prior to the transitional months of September and October.
All of this being said there’s great news on the horizon! Not only are we more than ready for cooler weather but getting back to that more consistent and reliable trout pattern that comes with each and every cold front will be quite refreshing as well. November kicks off a special time of year. Whether we’re hunting ducks, sitting in a deer blind, or wade fishing a flat on a cool crisp morning, the seasonal change revives our souls and presents us with new patterns and opportunities especially when it comes to targeting trout.
Knowing where to look is the first and most important step because one thing is certain, if they’re not there then we can’t catch them. There are several high percentage areas that immediately come to mind. Let’s discuss a few of them along with some possible scenarios we may be presented with when fishing those areas.
Generally speaking, trout are structure and habitat-oriented fish but that alone doesn’t necessarily mean that trout will always be found there. It really helps if food in the form of active baitfish, shrimp and tiny crabs is present. I fish a lot of the oyster reefs in Galveston and East Matagorda Bays, but in most cases if I don’t see bait I keep on trucking.
I’ve currently been having very good success wading a reef that’s positioned not too far off a cordgrass-lined stretch of shoreline. This particular reef runs perpendicular to the shoreline so tidal currents flowing east and west create eddies on both ends, as well as ambush points along its deeper edge. The past couple of trips there were textbook – find the bait and find the fish – scenarios. There were lots of nervous mullet and shad along with telltale hard-edged trout slicks on which to focus. We would simply jump out of the boat and go to town catching trout after trout.
But what if the signs aren’t there? Notice that I said, in most cases. Now fast forward to this morning’s trip which was the exception to the – find the bait and find the fish – rule. We had one inch of tide movement; no wind and we were one day on the back side of a very bright full moon. There was nothing to see but lifeless water. However, I already knew the fish were there so we waded the area anyway. We
dug our heels in and managed to grind out thirty-seven solid trout during the moonset minor.
I would’ve never stopped had I not known those fish were living there. By the way, we noticed plenty of mullet and shad making swirls as we waded along the crest of this particularly narrow reef. Their lack of visibility on the surface certainly wouldn’t have warranted a stop from most boats who chose to peruse this particular stretch of shoreline that morning. I’ll add one more thing; when the bait is down and somewhat docile the trout typically are too.
We had to slowly drag and lightly twitch our Laguna Shrimp Bass Assassins along the bottom while oftentimes dead-sticking them to induce subtle bites. I try to focus on points, small structure and eccentric drop-offs during weak tide periods and this particular reef possesses a very steep drop-off along one edge. Near the bottom of the ledge where the shell transitioned to mud is where we caught the majority of our fish.
As water temperatures continue to decline, forage species will tend to concentrate near marsh drains along shorelines. I’ve found that the best time to fish these areas are on a high tide that’s getting ready to fall. The water flowing out of the bayou or back lake into the bay brings with it a full-course buffet for opportunistic trout, reds and flounder. In addition, as the velocity of the flow increases a welldefined color change (mud streak) along the confluence of clearer bay water will form creating an excellent ambush point.
Small topwaters such as MirrOlure Top Dog Jr’s. and She Pups can draw some violent blow-ups and can even trigger a full-blown feeding frenzy. Of course, soft plastics such as Bass Assassins, MirrOlure Lil Johns and Provokers are always go-to baits for catching sheer numbers of fish. However, I’ve found that some of my larger fish have come on topwaters. Targeting drains (especially when wading) can present us with some of the best catching opportunities of the entire year!
As much as I love to focus on small shoreline reefs and bayou drains
Jody Moses had himself quite a day catching dozens of trout and this 26-inch redfish while chunking light-colored Assassins along the edge of a narrow oyster reef.
Lance Vinson caught some solid trout while casting into eddies and rip currents along an oyster reef with steep drop-offs.
Rusty Plackemeier not only tricked this solid red, he also duped a speck on his fly rod while casting to a marsh drain on an outgoing tide.
this time of year, there are times when wading the flats can be just as productive. Furthermore, many times I will have groups of 3 or 4 fishermen, so wading a small area wouldn’t provide everyone with the same opportunity to catch fish. Nothing is worse than having two clients catch fish while the other two become spectators because they can’t cast into a tight area.
There are certain characteristics I prefer when fishing flats. Stretches of broken shoreline with points and undulations are usually more productive than flats with no depth changes, or ones that are bordered by straight-line banks that are void of some form of habitat. We don’t have many here in Galveston or East Matagorda these days but flats with seagrass beds and potholes offer plenty of target areas. Obviously, stretches of shoreline possessing live oyster reefs are prime wading areas and with reefs we get the benefit of ledges and drop-offs as a bonus.
Regardless of the bottom habitat, I prefer a parallel or quartering wind of 10 – 15 mph to create turbid streaks and help stir up baitfish. This makes it much easier to trick trout than fishing in calm, clear water. I like to start out throwing a topwater as a locater bait, given the fact that we’re covering a vast area and then figure out what the fish will fully commit to once located. Remember to fan your casts in every direction to cover more water.
Unfortunately, there are times when we are forced to fish in those so-called postcard conditions. We all know the conditions I’m referring to; dead calm, bluebird sky, and gin clear water. The first thing I like to do is get a very early start because we give ourselves a much better chance at tricking our target species in the low light conditions. I usually start out chunking a small profile topwater with a soft and subtle pitched rattle, like a Top Dog Jr. or Super Spook Jr. I’ve found that dark colors like solid black work the best. These topwaters are less intimidating than their larger-sized, higher-pitched cousins. Those
come into play on the choppier days.
As the sun peeks over the horizon and darkness fades, I’ll generally switch to a small, clear-colored or light-colored soft plastic. The Saltwater Assassin Opening Night Glow w/chartreuse tail, Lit’l P&V, or MirrOlure Lil John in Blue Moon w/ limetreuse tail both fit the bill beautifully when it comes to color and profile. Not only that, but both are scent-infused and will cast a country mile. Making long casts and trying our best to keep the sun in our face will greatly increase our chances for success. If you want to see how fish react to shadows, just pay attention to the reaction of rafting mullet when a pelican flies between them and the sun. They scatter just like a trout or redfish will do when we cast a shadow.
As easy as fall fishing can be we must always keep in mind that there will be some days when the conditions present us with unforeseen changes that aren’t quite textbook. When this occurs we need to understand how the fish react and then respond accordingly. Honing in on the right spot is one thing, but knowing what to do if the tide’s not moving and the mullet aren’t jumping is just as important.
By understanding the fall staging areas of the fish we choose to target and how the changes affect their feeding habits, we can sometimes turn what would otherwise be a tough day into a very rewarding outing. Please remember to let ‘em go if you don’t need them. Good luck!
STEVE HILLMAN
Postcard Fishing View The Video
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Steve Hillman is a full-time fishing guide on his home waters of Galveston Bay. Steve fishes the entire Galveston Bay Complex, wading and drifting for trout, redfish, and flounder using artificial lures.
Phone 4 09-256-7937
Email captsteve@hillmanguideservice.com Web w ww.hillmanguideservice.com
Not only can 12-year-old Max Faske solve a Rubik’s Cube in less than a minute; he can also catch sharks on Limetreuse Sea Shad Assassins! He made the most of a slower than usual late summer day.
Two new lure colors from Bass Assassin that should be deadly in clear water conditions!
The Complete Skill Sets Spectrum
STORY BY KEVIN COCHRAN
The analysis appearing here specifically relates to anglers who own their own boats and who fish exclusively with artificial lures.
To achieve consistent productivity, top lure chunkers don’t simply display skill; they utilize a complex group of skill sets. At a basic level, these skill sets reside in two separate realms, some related to fish location and others related to the physical execution of strategies used to catch fish. Placing these sets on a linear continuum helps one generate the most complete picture representing all these individual, related skills. Significantly, some of these skill sets stem from similar, prerequisite sets and others exist as superfluous extras, possessed only by a few exquisitely versatile, elite anglers.
The identity of an elite coastal angler of the kind considered here begins to form long before adulthood. The prerequisite skill sets required to facilitate the emergence of a top-notch lure chunker emerge during childhood and adolescence. Almost invariably, people who prove themselves capable of ascending to the top of the angling world show an innate interest in the cycles of nature and in at least relatively crude forms of hunting and fishing.
Mostly, they love the great outdoors and spend time contemplating the natural phenomena and patterns they observe in the natural world. They’re the kinds of kids who build cave man traps for coons, coax crawdads from the ditch with bacon on a string, move toward a rattlesnake when they see one instead of turning and fleeing in fear. By the time they walk through the front door of adulthood, they already possess many of the seemingly instinctual hunter skills passed down through the eons to modern man by a brotherhood of like-minded spirits.
They also possess plenty of handyman skills, channeling the famous television figure MacGyver, at least a little. They can fix old things when they break without showing stubborn resistance to change; they embrace new systems and gadgets readily. In a world ever more influenced by technologies supported by sophisticated software and devices, they’re the best blend of an archetypal Bubba and the ingenious Bill Gates.
Once they decide to venture into the coastal fishing world by buying a boat, this combination of useful skills and competence with technologies readies them to start the process of becoming seasoned captains. While earning their stripes, they learn how to handle the truck, trailer and boat on the roads and ramps and how best to wrangle the winds and currents while moving around on the waterways. Over time, they learn what the boat can do, how best to take it into various places. And the stress lesser souls feel when forced into positions of leadership motivates them; they easily carry the weight of responsibility for others and relish the feel of the wheel in their hands.
Most of the skills related to captaining involve tactile experiences gained through time on the water, but some evolve from practiced knowledge earned through use of a GPS. In decades past, captains used compasses, triangulation and memory to find their way to remote places; these days, the GPS has dulled the need for those skills, while demanding proficient captains to acquire new ones,
related to the gadgets on the helm. Using GPS technology to access productive areas and to consistently return to specific locations makes the fishing easier, but nothing replaces an intimate familiarity with the many aspects of our bays and other coastal waterways.
Every angler who possesses all the skill sets on the complete spectrum has extensive knowledge of the layouts and bottom topographies of the waters in which they ply their trade. Using paper maps, Google Earth and GPS devices, they crossreference what they see on paper and on the screens with what they see on the water to develop a familiarity not only with the physical features of the waterways, but also with how various types of tidal and weather conditions alter the features. Any great coastal inshore angler appreciates how the vagaries of the ever-changing conditions can either elevate or diminish the potential for productivity in a given location. These same conditions can also make navigating in a place ill advised, even downright treacherous.
The end goal of all the studying and analysis of the features of the waterways culminates in the accumulation of a full catalog of productive spots. The most accomplished anglers never stop learning new places to fish, always with the goal of expanding their catalog and their awareness of when the potential runs high in these places and when visiting them makes little or no sense. The best also realize the
Anglers adept at altering lure choices to match the situations recognize the value of dangling soft plastics under corks.
Marc Carey used his knowledge and experience to make good choices when enticing this pretty trout to bite in Baffin Bay in cool weather.
Anglers bundled up to stave off the effects of cold weather should generally present their lures low and slow, like Lance Abel did when he caught this trout on a January outing in Baffin.
From one end of Texas to the other, November ranks as a top month to target flounder.
value of learning to read the signs indicating the presence of fish in a place, and when to place a priority on looking for signs over running through a milk run of favorite spots.
No great angler relies on spots at all times, nor exclusively on the reading of signs as the only way to locate fish. Relying on signs can become impossible or nearly so when low light conditions, dense fog and/or misting rain reduce visibility. An extensive, proven catalog of spots has tremendous value, for this reason. But all supremely accomplished anglers respond to obvious signs of something outstanding by adjusting their plans and fishing around them on a regular basis.
This ability to recognize the meaning of signs like herons and egrets dancing along a shoreline, squawks emitted by bickering gulls, the sudden redirection of a tern in open water, a melon scent wafting out of a cove, a frantic mullet making a long leap low over the water’s surface and many other pregnant signals is a vital part of any coastal angler’s quiver of skills. Because they possess strong prerequisite skills related to natural cycles and animal behavior, expert anglers develop their abilities to read the signs on the water faster than the average person. They use these skills to choose general locations to fish and where exactly to cast after they’ve chosen a location and started an effort in a place.
These folks also generate and execute intelligent strategies, choosing to wade some of the time, staying in the boat and drifting, with or without the aid of a trolling motor, on other occasions. They develop an acute ability to properly analyze how long to try spots and/or strategies before abandoning them, factoring in many variables as they decide when persistence is likely to pay and when flexibility is required. More a Jack of All Trades than a One Trick Pony, these versatile anglers use the ease or difficulty of earning bites as part of this process, always factoring in reasonable expectations for the situation.
In order to properly utilize the bite-rate in this important way, anglers must display proficiency in two of the most important skill sets on the spectrum. They must consistently make intelligent choices when selecting lures, and they must work them in productive ways, given the variables in play. While doing so, they catch fish, and while catching fish, they adroitly fight and handle them. These basic skills prove fairly easy to master, compared with some of the more complex ones.
Some elite anglers show a higher acumen for using many different kinds of lures than others, but all know plenty about using floating plugs, sinking twitchbaits, soft plastics and spoons, the four main groups of lures used by modern coastal anglers. They also recognize the value inherent to manipulating presentations to match the needs of the situation. Over time, experiences verify the critical importance the movement pattern of a lure plays in the generation of an appropriate bite-rate. Because the best anglers make such good predictions when choosing lures and back them up with the ability to execute intelligent presentations, they can use bite-rate effectively to decide how long to stick with a strategy or stay in a place.
Once they rightly perceive a reason to abandon a strategy or place, they excel in selecting the best ways to adjust their efforts
approach often proves more
to generate better outcomes. This skill set reflects back on the prerequisite ones related to nature and wildlife acumen, since it partly relies on accurately reading the signs indicating the presence of fish while on a search for a new place. Making smart adjustments to plans also requires reliance on an ample catalog of spots and an awareness of how the timing of the outing, combined with the weather and celestial influences exert influence on both the people making the effort and the fish they chase. Anglers who’ve mastered all these skill sets seem to pull rabbits out of hats at times, but consistent productivity results from intelligent analysis and decision-making, not from wizardry and sleight of hand.
A small group of elite anglers who master all the aforementioned skill sets also prove themselves capable of cleaning and cooking fish after the game on the water comes to an end. Some of them wield knives as deftly as a Sushi chef and infuse food with flavor like Bobby Flay. A few also show an ability and an interest to pass their knowledge on to others, sometimes while on the water, in the game, other times in discussions at the dinner table or local bar, occasionally by writing books, making videos, or starring in Podcasts. I’ve labeled these last skill sets as “Beyond Violet” because mastering the “complete spectrum” does not require mastering them. The celebrated icons who achieve such things rise above the rest, illuminating pathways for others to follow.
KEVIN COCHRAN
Kevin Cochran is a long-time fishing guide at Corpus Christi (Padre Island), TX. Kevin is a speckled trout fanatic and has created several books and dvds on the subject.
Kevin’s home waters stretch from Corpus Christi Bay to the Land Cut.
T ROUT TRACKER GUIDE SERVICE
Phone 361-688-3714
Email kevincochran404@yahoo.com
Web www.captainkevblogs.com
The captain identifies the most important skill sets relied on by top anglers. View The Video Open Camera and hover over QR Code. When link appears at top of screen tap to open in YouTube.
A cerebral
effective than a simplistic, stubborn one, as Justin Morris proved when he caught this handsome trout.
Open water schools of trout, along with slot and oversize redfish feeding under the birds is a much anticipated November staple.
Not a BAD ONE in the BUNCH
Don’t look now, but as you peel the page from the calendar, November is about to jump right out at you. Yes, we finally made it to one of the absolute best times of the entire year; one of my personal favorites, and definitely one of the most anticipated by coastal anglers.
Right about now it’s easy to feel like one of the lucky men that get to appear on
The Bachelor, TV’s popular dating show. Everywhere you look you see an attractive option and the truth is there’s not a bad one in the bunch. Angling options galore, everything from skinny backwaters to the surf and nearshore gulf has a program and nobody could blame you for choosing any of them. For most Texas anglers the biggest problem, if you can call it that, will be picking only one from the myriad options and not having to second-guess your choice.
The list of quality options this month has to start with perhaps the most highly anticipated of the season, and that’s chasing schooling fish under flocks of seagulls. The “blow and go” of hustling from flock to flock is always a favorite method of catching fish for many anglers as both the action and opportunities can be nonstop. Soft plastics threaded on leadhead jigs and fished with or without a rattling cork is by far the top lure choice for most folks that enjoy this type of fishing.
Durable plastics are a must due to the high volume of bites and this is where the Z-Man line of soft plastics made from ElaZtech separates itself from the rest of the crowd. Baits like the Jerk ShadZ, Mulletron, and MinnowZ are perfect for this application. The newest addition to the Z-Man lineup, a shrimp imitation called Prawn StarZ may be the most impressive yet and will really do a number on all the targeted species. Prawn StarZ come in several sizes and colors and may be the most lifelike and realistic shrimp imitator I have ever seen. The action of these lures is just incredible and has to be seen to be believed.
Two things that are a must if you decide to put serious effort into chasing fish under the birds are binoculars and patience. Obviously, the binoculars help you locate the next flock of feeding birds. Patience, on the other hand, will help you keep a smile on your face and your temper under control as traffic increases and the display of etiquette decreases. Keep in mind during these high-volume periods that many folks may not understand or know the “unwritten rules” about how to fish the birds properly, so a cool head can be a big bonus toward avoiding any type of confrontation. Just remember there isn’t a fish out there worth getting in an altercation over. If running all over the lake doesn’t do it for you, perhaps keying in on some structure in deeper water and taking a shot at some of the biggest flounder of the year may be more appealing. The fall flounder migration is what many folks have associated Sabine with for many years. The abundance of marshes surrounding Sabine Lake offer prime habitat for juvenile flounder to grow before they begin their annual migration toward the gulf for spawning. Big numbers of these fish will gather up this month in predictable areas along the Ship Channel and in both the Sabine and Neches rivers as they exit the marsh and head for the gulf.
STORY BY CHUCK UZZLE
For many years anglers looked forward to this migration to stock up on some excellent table fare, but that’s not the case anymore. Starting November 1 and continuing through December 14, the season for retaining flounder will be closed in order to promote escapement to the gulf. For those of you who continue to circumvent the Texas laws by using Louisiana boat launches, don’t forget that Louisiana will also be closed for retaining flounder from October 15 through November 30. But, just because you can’t keep them doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy catching them, and November is about as good as gets, so don’t pass that up if you get the opportunity.
Still other anglers will opt for another excellent choice and that will be the pursuit of trophy-class speckled trout. Historically, November has been a top month for catching better trout and you better believe there will be some folks out looking for that fish of a lifetime. Most of the folks who choose to pursue these bigger fish will be wading, especially in the afternoons as the water temps climb throughout the day and those fish become more active. Remember during this period these better fish will be looking for one big meal, so do your best to coordinate your time on the water with the best feeding periods in order to maximize your odds.
fish. I know plenty of folks will shudder at the thought of it, but drifting live bait is a great option in these deeper areas. The bonus to drifting live bait will be the opportunity to catch some oversized redfish that will be all over the Sabine area during this time, so you increase your chances of getting your string stretched and your drag tested.
If you don’t want to wade, don’t stress. There will also be ample opportunity to connect with those bigger fish from the boat. Long drifts in 3- to 5-foot depths that border the Ship Channel and Intracoastal Waterway will also be a solid area to look for those better
One last option to consider will be the deepwater bite in the Sabine and Neches rivers. Obviously this bite is contingent upon water conditions and runoff from up north due to heavy rain or adjustments to lake levels at Toledo Bend and Sam Rayburn. Live shad or mullet fished on a Carolina rig near the breaks along the channels can be exceptionally productive and offers up some protection from days when the open lake gets too windy and rough to fish. Quality trout, redfish, and flounder should all be present as well as big numbers of sand trout. The option of just relaxing while anchored and catching fish is a pattern many will never turn down and I can’t blame them because it’s certainly an enjoyable way to spend a few hours on the water.
Now, on certain days, several of these patterns may all come into play, so you need to be prepared, and that might mean having some extra gear handy. One particular piece of gear I like to add at times is a fly rod because of the chances of getting into schooling fish where you can catch big numbers. I have introduced many clients to the sport of flyfishing this way and it works out incredibly well. Running into multiple flocks of feeding birds is akin to being in a batting cage; if you miss a fish another one should be right behind it, and that’s exactly what a beginner needs the first time they try flyfishing. Making the sport fun and allowing the new angler to be successful is what it’s all about.
I recently found a great way to solve the problem of bringing extra fly gear along and that was courtesy of a company called SeaSucker and their excellent line of products. SeaSucker uses an innovative suction
Close-up of the SeaSucker vacuum pump system –incredible holding power at the touch of a button.
The SeaSucker Pro-Series Rod and Tool Holder is easily the best solution for transporting extra rods I have ever seen.
CPR on a handful of redfish!
November promises a variety of outdoor opportunity in the Sabine region.
cup design that allows all manner of optional equipment to be attached to everything from boats, trucks, RVs and more. I added one of their rod racks to the side of my bay boat so I can now carry a 9-foot fly rod that’s strung up and ready to use at a moment’s notice. The suction cup design can be pumped up to increase the vacuum and provide ridiculous holding power. I saw their bike rack that sticks to automotive glass and was blown away at how sturdy it was. You couldn’t make it break loose from the window if you tried. The suction cup design allows anglers to attach their gear virtually anywhere, making a customized fishing environment suited to each person’s specific needs. If you have never seen their products, you’ll be amazed once you look them up; easily some of the coolest stuff I’ve seen in quite a while.
CHUCK UZZLE
Chuck fishes Sabine and Calcasieu Lakes from his home in Orange, TX. His specialties are light tackle and fly fishing for trout,
and flounder.
Phone 409-697-6111
Email wakesndrakes@yahoo.com
Website wakesndrakes.com
“We contracted the construction of the TSFMag office building with Farrell Jackson. Jackson also built my son’s bay house here in Seadrift. We were completely satisfied with both projects…a professional and trustworthy contractor.” ~ Everett Johnson | Editor/Publisher, TSF Mag
View The Video Open Camera and hover over QR Code. When link appears at top of screen tap to open in YouTube.
The new Prawn StarZ from Z-Man with built-in glass rattle is an incredibly tough and realistic shrimp imitation – perfect for targeting trout and redfish under the birds.
reds,
Tracking
Flounder
STORY BY JOE RICHARD
Flounder research has been picking up steam at Texas A&M’s Harte Research Institute in Corpus Christi. In September and October their goal was to insert acoustic tracking devices in 65 flounder, to see where and when they move this autumn. Underwater listening posts in the Aransas area will record their movements, hopefully answering questions on how many of these fish actually leave the bays during winter.
“Each small, black acoustic transmitter was surgically implanted inside the fish,” says Matt Streich, assistant director and senior research scientist at the Institute. “These fish will also carry a small, visible yellow dart tag near the tail. If one is caught, it’s okay to either keep the fish or release it, that’s part of harvest data. If it carries that yellow tag, if you clean the fish, we would like the acoustic transmitter back. Then we can put it in another fish. We’re putting up flyers at some boat ramps, to alert the public.”
The reason? “Flounder are not looking good range-wise, from Texas to North Carolina,” says Streich. “All the state agencies show a decline. It could be a little overfishing, but the range part of it makes it more likely that climate effects are having an impact.”
“They have a temperature related, sex determinant when they’re 1-2 inches long, so there is concern that milder winter temps are causing it. If the water is warmer than 68°F, most flounder are males. Scientists are worried about masculinizing the population. The double whammy is that with the minimum size of 15 inches in Texas, almost all flounder harvested are females. [Male flounder are smaller.] You’re taking out females from the fishery while the climate is mostly creating males, so that’s a double hammer.”
A third, age-old problem was the annual November harvest, when female flounder migrate to the Gulf. They were hit hard, with a daily bag limit of 20 fish as recently as 1995, with people staying out after midnight (two calendar days) so they could each take 40 fish. They were removing females full of eggs that didn’t make it offshore to
spawn that winter. I’ve only been on gig boats a few times out of Port O’Connor, but well remember cleaning fish the next morning in chilly weather, when every fish carried eggs.
Modern gig boats can cover miles of shoreline at night with minimal physical effort. That’s a sharp contrast from wading with a lantern the old fashioned way. Billy, who lived in Port O’Connor his entire life, and worked at Clark’s Marina bait store, told me that back in the day, they would drive a skiff to Matagorda Island and wade/tow it back to town, gigging the entire way on foot. They motored across deeper water. He says they often brought in 100 flounder.
Matt Streich continues: “We did a visual survey, looking for flounder from a boat around Packery Channel and Port Aransas during the last two years, to see if the flounder closure was effective. After they extended the harvest closure from November into the first two weeks of December, we wanted to see if that six-week span matched when these fish leave the bays. Although sometimes, water visibility was a problem.
“So, we made some 3D visual prints of flounder, and put those out in a certain area, and sent our people to check that shoreline. To see how many flounder they missed so we could adjust our counts, based on visibility. It looks like during
Acoustic tag in the gut of tagged flounder. There is a reward for returning these.
This big flounder was hungry and grabbed a frozen finger mullet in early Spring.
Flounder have remarkable camouflage meant for ambushing small prey.
the two years of our study, most of the fish in our counts increased in number until mid-December arrived, and then dropped off. So it looked like the closure was well-timed.
“There was a study in Galveston that showed 30 percent of their flounder didn’t migrate. And lots of gigging went on after Dec. 15. We definitely saw bigger fish (females) after that date.”
“Another project that will start next year is to mark how close these fish are to the inlets during autumn. We’ll be tagging flounder in the Land Cut to see if those fish are less likely to migrate offshore, than the Aransas fish. It’s a long ways from the Land Cut to the Gulf through either Mansfield’s jetties or Packery Channel.”
I inquired about the flounder population offshore, and the day I gigged a sackful from 2-6 pounds during August, at a depth of 96 feet, about 50 miles off Galveston. It was a rare day when the bottom wasn’t covered with a nepheloid layer, which is a fog bank far below the clear water. Just blue water to the bottom that day, and lots of flounder. They were magnified and the biggest, a six-pounder, looked like nine. When I fired the spear “it was just him and me,” as the old-timers used to say. Our struggle was covered up in a blinding cloud of silt.
“In August? That sounds like some flounder move offshore like redfish and never return,” Streich says. “We don’t have good data on that at all. It’s something we definitely need to get a better handle on. We’re putting in a proposal now to put small satellite tags on flounder offshore, hoping to put them on big ones and track them like cobia. Where they go along the continental shelf. Finding them out there in late summer is pretty interesting, it means they stayed out there. We don’t have good flounder genetic data, but maybe there’s a migrating bay population and then an offshore population.”
It sounds like they need to make some summer dives along the coast, spearing flounder around structure and then doing DNA tests, matching them against bay flounder. From what I’ve seen while diving, flounder are found at all offshore structures from 30 to 100 feet, regardless if they’re at oil rigs, sunken boat wrecks or snapper rocks. If divers can capture flounder way out in 150 feet of water, it would be interesting to see if they’re genetically different from shallow bay flounder. That’s a long migration, from the bays to 60-70 miles offshore between Galveston and Sabine Pass.
Perhaps a local spearfishing club will volunteer to gig flounder in the Gulf, and save the fish heads for DNA tests and to recover the ear (growth) stones.
“We’ve been saving fin clips from inshore flounder,” says Streich. “But I’d be interested in getting samples from offshore flounder, whether caught on hook and line or speared underwater. In case there is a difference between inshore and offshore flounder. Anything from 60-foot depths, out to deeper water. Our dive safety officer probably knows of a scuba club around Corpus, who might be interested.”
There are few production platforms still out there compared with a few years ago. Divers might have to dive a wreck or natural rock, hoping for clear bottom visibility, and prowl the sand around it watching for these fish. Interested divers should contact Streich beforehand, for instructions.
“If flounder in depths of 100 feet or more are related or unrelated
to bay flounder, that alone would be interesting to know,” Streich says. “Be sure to record the depth and distance offshore these fish were taken from. With head samples we could age the fish. It would be interesting to know if flounder offshore average 3-5 years old, compared to mostly 0-2 years old in the bays. Measuring their length would be important information, too.”
JOE RICHARD
CONTACT
Joe Richard has fished the Gulf since 1967, starting out of Port Arthur, but his adventures have taken him up and down the entire coast. He was the editor of Tide magazine for eight years, and later Florida Sportsman’s book and assistant magazine editor. He began guiding out of Port O’Connor in 1994. His specialty is big kingfish, and his latest book is The Kingfish Bible, New Revelations. Available at Seafavorites.com
These signs have been posted around Aransas Bay, where tagged flounder from the Harte Institute carry an internal acoustic tag.
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THE BASICS OF SLICK LOGIC
We continue to receive some much-needed rainfall in the Rockport area due to continued tropical activity in the Gulf of Mexico. Tides remained high for weeks following Hurricane Francine, a hurricane that had no major impact on the Texas coast. Our bay systems to the north and the south of Rockport received a good replenishment of both fresh and saltwater. I believe this can be nothing short of fantastic for our fall and winter fishing.
I have seen an increase in the size of the trout I am catching over the past two weeks. Much of this can be attributed to cooler water temperatures and an increase in our water movement due to not only higher tidal levels, but also the freshwater influx from all the rain we have had. For those that fish with me in the Rockport area, you know how confident I am with our trout fishery when we have moving water. Over my entire career I have believed that moving water in and around welldefined bottom structure holds predators. It is true that we need a food source in place in these areas but when we do, I am about as confident as one can get that trout are present or very close by. Catching them becomes a timing pattern more times than not. I pay close attention to our solunar tables when this pattern comes into play. In this month’s article I am going to try to walk you through one of my recent days on the water, talking you through the wade versus walking you through it.
Three days this past week it is was predictable and production was top tier. To be perfectly honest, the trout were not spectacular, but we did have some 23-to24-inch fish, including one that bumped the 27-1/2 mark. There were lots of truly heavy 15 to 17-inch trout each morning and the dolphins pretty much left us alone. These apex predators are seldom far away, and it is frustrating to see the numbers of trout they can kill if we allow them. I know that day to day, they get theirs no matter what, but seeing it firsthand always seems worse. Dolphin presence also shows us two very positive things; I seldom see them in areas that do not hold large amounts of both bait fish and trout. I have also experienced times when the dolphin were actually pushing larger trout to shallow grass flats adjacent to the deeper water where scattered grass beds were present. Dolphin are here to stay, so we have to accept this and learn to work around them whenever possible.
I like to run well offshore of areas that I know to be holding the proper bottom structure and plentiful bait. I do this because I believe that in our heavily pressure fisheries, game fish are always totally aware of where we are. The trout and redfish alike will react to engine
and prop noise hundreds of feet away from the source. I am also looking for signs that trout are present, as well as searching for likely areas that other anglers are not fishing. It is worth mentioning that the marks on GPS programs and fishing maps that declare certain areas to be known for good fishing represent only a very small portion of our bay systems. I am looking for areas no matter where I am fishing that contain the proper ingredients for holding fish…that are not holding anglers.
In two of the areas I have been fishing, I am seeing larger bait fish shallow and small menhaden schools off the deeper drop-offs. The bottom structure is both scattered clump shell and scattered grass beds. The grass beds are both shallow as well as along the deeper dropoff. On all the occasions that I fished these two areas last week, we had falling tides, light SE wind, and 85° water temperatures. Early morning hours included the moonset minor and clear water conditions.
On all my passes along this shoreline I was observing signs of old slicks. The larger the slick, the older it is, for the most part. On three separate occasions the tidal flow was strong enough to pull the slicks against the wind, so this had to be accounted for once in the water with the fish. The wind blowing one way and the tides flowing hard in the opposite direction prevented us from smelling the slicks. I don’t need to smell them; I just need to see the point of origin to plan our wading approach.
The angle in which we set up and then wade and cast is huge in these types of situations. I was constantly having to redirect the group on positioning because this type of approach in what I call slick logic was not something they were well versed in. The group caught on quickly and bites became frequent and predictable.
It went like this:“The up-current line just behind where the slicks form are the origination points. Look beneath the surface and locate the bottom structure, then cast up-current of that structure.”
There was a ton of coaching going on for several hours, constantly making them aware of the fact that we did not need to move. “Just position yourself and fan cast to the areas where we are seeing slicking and bait activity.”
The current brings bait and fish to us. If you were fishing from a boat and using live croaker, would you move after you caught a fish, or would you get another bait and throw back to the same area?
Understand that the trout do not know the lure is not real. If they did, they would most likely never pick
one up. The guys did really well and listened intently. They released something like 30 to 40 slot-sized trout during a three hour session. This pattern was repeated for three days in the same general area.
Our midday to early afternoon wade session proved productive for larger trout and redfish but fewer trout in general. By mid-morning, SE winds had increased to 10 to 12 mph, so we fished windward areas of the shoreline that were close to island passes where the current had been running earlier in the morning. I believe that the larger trout seldom venture too far from the shallow feeding areas that they prefer. That said, the slightly deeper areas around these passes provide areas for the trout to stage and wait until the next feeding opportunity. Opportunity is the key word here.
When presented with the opportunity, big trout will often eat for us despite what the solunar table might be indicating. By the time we reached these areas we were experiencing slack tides, and soon the beginning of the new incoming tide. Each day I positioned the boat as far offshore as I could without being too deep for yours truly. I like standing offshore of windward shoreline structures, casting at slight angles to the preferred structure. Slicks once again allowed us to pinpoint the potholes and areas of scattered grass along parallel shoreline guts that were holding the fish.
On every wade for three days in these areas we caught trout from 23 to almost 27 inches. Never more than two to four fish on a wade. No small trout of any kind in the mix with the larger fish. Redfish were positioned just inside the line that the larger trout were holding on. I think the hardest thing for most anglers to do in this situation is to stay positioned offshore and work parallel to the line where bites are being received.
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You also must be constantly aware of the water depth, the depths of the potholes and guts, and the specific sizes and shapes of the submerged grass beds. Not all grass beds, potholes, and guts are created equal. It is incumbent on the angler to be able to recognize the specifics of the given structures that are holding fish. I know that’s a lot to think about, but this is what it takes to be able to produce consistently.
For what it’s worth, it’s seldom luck that continually puts certain anglers on certain classes of trout. It’s the ability to locate and then dissect the areas that hold these types of fish, and then set into action a plan for catching them. This is what I believe is being lost in today’s fishery. Get out, put your feet on the bottom and allow yourself to miss, but learn from that miss. My best lessons have been learned from moments of failure.
I have been throwing mostly MirrOlure Lil John Xls in solid colors such as Golden Bream, Watermelon-Red Glitter, Molting, and Opening Night. I have been rigging these on Texas Customs 1/16 ounce chartreuse jigheads at times in the clear water to draw what I believe are purely reactionary strikes. I have also had some nice catches throwing the Texas Customs Double D in Plum Nasty, Pistachio and Pearl Harbor.
I hope talking you through this pattern helps you the next time you have the opportunity to fish some moving water.
May Your Fishing Always Be Catching!-Guide, Jay Watkins
CONTACT
Jay Watkins has been a full-time fishing guide at Rockport, TX, for more than 45 years. Jay specializes in wading yearround for trout and redfish with artificial lures. Jay covers the Texas coast from San Antonio Bay to Corpus Christi Bay.
Telephone 361-729-9596
Email Jay@jaywatkins.com
Website www.jaywatkins.com
Alyson and Drew double up on slot-size trout.
Ralph Dowling enjoying an early morning pull.
Author with an early fall chunk.
DAVE ROBERTS SHALLOW WATER FISHING
RIDE THE BULL
Earlier this summer I attended a P.A.C.K. (Paddling Anglers in Canoes and Kayaks) meeting and afterwards I began to converse with a few of the members. I had met several of them prior, along with Smalley, who had accompanied on our Panama kayak fishing trip last year. We began to discuss fishing and upcoming fishing trips that were on their calendars and that is when the Ride The Bull tournament was mentioned. They noted that they had a spot available where they would be staying and it was mine if I was interested. It didn’t take too long for me to make a decision on that. After all, I had to be in Biloxi on the Sunday after the tournament, so I might as well make a full trip of it.
For those who might not already know, Ride The Bull is a bull red kayak fishing tourney held in Grand Isle, Louisiana, hosted by CCA Louisiana, and they have made it a truly fun event since having taken over the management and promotion several years ago. It is held in late August every year and timed to coincide with large schools of redfish that move into Caminada Pass to spawn. This usually results in a goodly number of redfish being caught and they are more than likely going to be big fish.
How it works is that there is a boundary between the end of the jetties and stretching inland, past the launch, and about a 1/2 mile past the bridge. The format is a shotgun start, everyone launches at the same time and you can fish anywhere within the boundaries. Weigh boats are staged within the tournament boundaries and when a fish is caught the angler signals the nearest weigh boat to come and document the landing. In years past anglers would take the fish back to the marina, have it weighed, revive it in a tank, and then release it. Thankfully, with the advent of highly-accurate digital handheld scales, this is no longer necessary and anglers can get right back to fishing. At the end of the day, the heaviest redfish wins! Simple as that.
Ride the Bull has evolved to become one of the most
popular kayak tournaments staged on the gulf coast. I have not attended the event in six or seven years but last time I did, we set the record for the largestever kayak fishing tournament with over 700 kayakers participating. This year was not quite that size but there were still over 300 kayakers that entered and fished. Needless to say, it is a fun event!
The time came and I loaded up my kayak and skiff with all of my rods and was headed to Grand Isle. We planned on showing up a few days early and I figured I might as well take advantage of the time by doing some fishing out the skiff for a day or two. I got there early and since I couldn’t check in, I just launched and went looking for some redfish. I picked up a few nice fish that day and was enjoying a late lunch when Ryan showed up. I told him to jump on the skiff and lets go check out another area. It had a few fish in it and Ryan finally hooked into a really nice one. He fought it for a while but unfortunately his line broke before he could land it. We headed back to meet the rest of the guys at the cabin and get the rest of our gear unloaded and organized.
The next morning we all got up early and I volunteered to make breakfast burritos. Since Blaine grew up in Grand Isle he knows where all the good food can be found. He made a quick run to a local store and picked up a few loaves of fresh French bread that we substituted for the traditional tortillas. Let me tell you, those Cajuns got it figured out with that French bread. After a hearty meal we set out to find some more fish. We caught a few reds and trout, found a sandbar where we could scoop up some crabs for bait on tournament day, and we also drove up to the shrimp boat dock and scored five pounds of fresh shrimp for dinner.
The day before the tournament dawned with a very stiff east wind. This is not ideal because a majority of the pass lies east to west, making it very rough in the middle. Smalley and Brad decided to head to the beach and try
And they’re off! All the kayakers take off from the same marina at the same exact time and it is a race to their fishing spots!
to catch more crabs for the next day while the rest of us prepped our gear. Within walking distance from our cabin was the marina where the captains meeting and dinner would be held that evening. Throughout the day we would wander over to converse with a few of the directors and other participants. The tournament meeting included a shrimp
of
boil for all the participants, after which they presented all the rules and the next day’s plans for the event. It was a great evening, meeting and getting to know a lot of people. Everybody in our group was excited to put finishing touches on our gear and get a good night’s rest.
The next morning we rose early for tournament day and we all had similar plans and areas we were going to fish. Smalley and Brad caught a few dozen of crabs the day before so I loaded my cooler with ten of them and took off. My plan was to get behind the bridge around an area that I had been keeping in the back of my mind from prior experience. The last time I was down there, I noted a series of boats parking and fishing in the same area every day and I figured there had to be a reason for it. I got setup as close to it as I could remember and threw out two lines. I begin to talk to the kayaker beside me about fishing in general, where he was from, and our hope to do well in the tournament. About an hour passed and he hung into a nice fish. I signaled for a weigh boat for him. Confident that I was in the right area, I continued fishing as the morning passed.
Finally, I got a bite and began to crank on a fish. I was excited at first but after a minute or so I began to realize the fish wasn’t moving very fast and there was a lot of dead weight on the line. I told the guy across from me that I’d definitely be in the money if it was a redfish. Well, unfortunately, my intuition was confirmed when I cranked up a large black drum.
Getting the big drum released, my concerns about the building east wind overtook my desire to continue fishing and I decided to head back to the launch. It was really getting rough out there. Just as I was making my way to the shore, the tournament committee announced that the event was being called off due to unsafe conditions. I know it had to be a tough call but everybody made it off the water safely and that is of utmost importance during a kayak event. I believe the vast majority of the fishermen agreed and I applaud the committee for the decision.
Brad caught two redfish that morning and was the only one on the leaderboard out of our group. Although his weight wasn’t enough to make the Top 10, he still caught fish, so good for him. Along with the fishing tournament, the festivities also include a costume contest and this is what Brad is most known for. He always has something eccentric planned and this year was nothing short of that!
Another aspect about Ride The Bull that I thought was truly spectacular; also located on Grand Isle is a fisheries laboratory that is being converted to become a hatchery and rearing facility for red drum. Given CCA Louisiana’s involvement with the tournament and also the creation of the hatchery project, some of the fish landed during the tournament were kept alive and will become part of the original broodstock to produce fingerlings that will be released back into Louisiana waters to boost the declining redfish population. Now, how wonderful is that?
Next year, if you are looking for a road trip and an easy and fun kayak tournament, I would highly recommend going down to Ride the Bull. I will for sure be there again!
Dave Roberts is an avid kayak-fishing enthusiast fishing primarily the inshore Upper Coast region with occasional adventures to surf and nearshore Gulf of Mexico.
Email: TexasKayakChronicles@yahoo.com
Website: www.TexasKayakChronicles.com
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Best Time
the Year to Fish
Tracy Bourgeois with her first-ever bull red weighing in at 20.70lbs, she ended up winning the Ladies Division!
Dean Lecoq releasing a bull red back into Grand Isle waters.
Close-up of the shotgun start – anglers leaving the marina.
One of the weigh boats receiving and processing a redfish for a successful angler. The fish were released immediately after weights were recorded.
SEASON OF GIVING THANKS
Coastal Conservation Association Texas (CCA Texas) is having another exceptional year, once again due to the collective efforts of many on the local grassroots level. Additionally, CCA Texas continues to hold an active role in habitat restoration and creation by partnering with many other like organizations, academic institutions, and state agencies. Coastal marine conservation efforts take a collective effort by many to ensure that our coastal marine resources are conserved, sustainable, and available for the enjoyment of current and future generations of all people.
Since the first gathering of fourteen concerned recreational anglers in 1977, the strength of CCA Texas has always been the dedicated efforts of the local grassroots. Local members are the key to the success of CCA Texas. Their dedicated efforts to fundraising, community outreach, and more are key to spreading the mindset of sound marine conservation along the Texas coast. Whether you are simply an annual renewing member, a banquet attendee, or an active local board member, you have an opportunity to make a difference. Opportunities are available for banquet planning committees, local chapter Angler Night Out events, local chapter Kid Fish events, local coastline and community cleanups, and much more. Community events are a great way to give back to the resource. Many opportunities exist to better the environment, whether it’s a CCA Texas event or with other groups like Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program (CBBEP), Harte Research Institute (HRI), Galveston Bay Foundation (GBF), San Antonio Bay Partnership (SABP), University Texas Marine Science Institute (UTMSI), FlatsWorthy, Texas Parks and Wildlife
Department (TPWD) and others. For that, CCA Texas staff and leadership THANKS YOU!
Local business and corporate sponsorships play a very important role not only in local chapter banquets, but in the CCA Texas habitat creation and restoration efforts. While the majority of CCA funds spent on habitat efforts continue to come from local chapter fundraising events, local chapters and members often play a key role in helping secure corporate and business donations for habitat work. These local relationships that volunteers groom with local community businesses are a crucial part of CCA Texas habitat work as these efforts continue to grow and the cost to execute restoration and creation projects continue to grow at a fast pace as well. This support from across the state deserves a big THANK YOU! Every year, there seems to be a volunteer, member, or local community business that decides to step to the plate for the conservation of Texas’s coastal resources with a special gesture. During the 2023 STAR Tournament, longtime CCA Life Member Tim Chapman caught a tagged redfish earning him a Haynie boat. In a very short period, Tim knew exactly what he was going to do. Tim donated the boat back to CCA Texas to use in their fundraising in the 2024 season. Not only did Tim donate the boat back to CCA Texas, but he also upgraded the boat with extra accessories and upgraded the motor. The San Bernard chapter volunteers did an amazing job in presale and the night-of tickets, and the donation was a great fund-raising success for CCA Texas. This gesture turned into a $90,000 contribution to CCA Texas. Tim’s long-time support of CCA Texas continues to shine through and over the years he has made sure his family and grandchildren all
Public meetings are an opportunity for recreational anglers to make their voice heard during the process of fisheries management changes. Thank you to those that take the time to show up, speak and ask for the resource to be considered first.
CCA Texas Aransas Bay chapter members participated in the San Antonio Bay Partnership’s 5th Annual Shorelines Cleanup. Thanks to all the volunteers that took time to make our shorelines cleaner
understand the importance of caring for Texas’s coastal resources.
“As a recreational angler, it is important that each of us do what we can to conserve our coastal resources for future generations. We each hold a responsibility to impress this attitude upon our family, friends and the businesses that we operate with so that the treasure of the Texas coast is here forever.” – Tim Chapman
Mr. Chapman, hats off to you, and THANK YOU!
Partnerships are a large part of conservation success. Whether it is advocacy battles for sound marine fisheries and habitat management, a water permit, or industrial development, like-minded conservation groups and individuals make a difference. Habitat restoration and creation has come to the forefront for many. Habitat projects are expensive and often take the combined efforts of many to become reality. CCA Texas is a founding partner and plays an integral role in planning for many habitat projects and is thankful for the partnerships that enhance the health of our coastal resources. From CCA Texas to our partners; THANK YOU!
As we begin closing out the 2024 year and enter the holiday season, thank your fellow recreational anglers for their conservation efforts and encourage them all to be a part of the movement for the future. For more information about CCA Texas, please visit www.ccatexas.org or visit us on Facebook, Instagram, or X.
Partnerships are a big part of habitat restoration and creation success. The Sabine Nearshore Reefs projects are a great example of community partners and conservation groups coming together to make a difference.
Longtime CCA member Tim Chapman caught a tagged redfish during the 2023 STAR and won a boat. Not only did he donate it Back to CCA Texas, he upgraded the boat and motor for a lucky winner.
By Lindsey Savage and Marybeth Weihbrecht, Restoration and Artificial Reef Team
FIELD NOTES
FROM HAZARD TO HABITAT: THE FUTURE TRANSFORMATION OF THE OLD QUEEN ISABELLA CAUSEWAY
TPWD’s Artificial Reef Program: Expanding Horizons
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s (TPWD) Artificial Reef Program plays a critical role in marine conservation across Texas. This program is dedicated to creating and maintaining artificial reefs that improve marine habitats and provide recreational opportunities. The initiative includes both offshore and nearshore projects tailored to different depths and ecological needs.
A key component of TPWD’s program is the Nearshore Reefing Program, which focuses on establishing artificial reefs in shallower coastal waters, typically within a few miles of shore and at depths ranging from 30 to 60 feet. These nearshore reefs are designed to be accessible to recreational fishermen, divers, and snorkelers, offering excellent opportunities for public engagement with marine life.
Nearshore reefs provide essential habitats for various fish species and invertebrates, serving as nursery grounds for juvenile fish and enhancing overall marine ecosystem health. TPWD’s efforts in developing these accessible reef sites not only improve fishing and diving experiences but also stimulate local economies and raise public awareness of marine conservation.
In a groundbreaking initiative that bridges the gap between history and marine conservation, TPWD and the Texas General Land Office (GLO) are collaborating to transform the remnants of the Queen Isabella Causeway into a thriving artificial reef. This innovative project aims
to enhance nearshore fishing and diving opportunities while making a significant contribution to marine conservation efforts in the Gulf of Mexico.
The Legacy of the Queen Isabella Causeway
Constructed in 1954, the Queen Isabella Causeway was more than just a bridge; it was a vital artery linking Port Isabel and South Padre Island for two decades. Its grandeur and utility marked it as a notable engineering achievement. However, as traffic demands grew and the bridge aged, it became clear that a new structure was needed. By 1974, the Causeway’s future seemed uncertain as it was replaced by a more modern bridge. Yet, the Causeway’s story did not end with its decommissioning. The submerged portions of the bridge unexpectedly began serving as a valuable artificial reef. Over the years, its piers and debris developed into a habitat for various marine species. This unplanned transformation highlighted the potential for repurposing infrastructure to support marine biodiversity.
Converting Challenge into Opportunity
As time passed, the western end of the Causeway fell into disrepair, presenting a safety hazard for marine navigation and public use. Addressing this issue required a solution that would preserve the ecological benefits of the reef that had begun growing on the Causeway while mitigating the safety risks it posed. The response
Figures 1-3: Deterioration of the Queen Isabella Causeway.
was a forward-thinking project aimed at repurposing the Causeway’s materials into a new, purpose-built artificial reef.
Hazard to Habitat
The concrete remains of the Causeway are ideal for use in artificial reefs, providing a robust foundation for marine life. The new reef will not only enhance the ecological value of the Gulf of Mexico but will also offer excellent opportunities for recreational fishing. Specifically, the new reef will create additional prime habitat for red snapper, a popular species among anglers. Being in state waters, the expanded habitat will support year-round red snapper fishing, making it a valuable addition to the Gulf’s nearshore fishing opportunities.
By repurposing the Causeway’s materials, the project aims to bolster the ecological benefits previously provided by the bridge while addressing safety concerns about the dilapidated structure. The new reef will contribute to marine biodiversity and offer a rich habitat for a variety of marine species.
Collaborative Execution
processes. Their role is crucial in ensuring that the disassembly is executed with precision and care.
TPWD and GLO have embarked on this ambitious project, funded by Coastal Management Program Cycle 25 Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act funds and GLO Surface Damage Funds, to remove the remaining structure of the Causeway, which stretches approximately 3,187 feet, and create a new artificial reef at a 320-acre site located about 10 miles from the South Padre Island jetties. The project is set to be completed by the summer of 2025, allowing ample time for thorough planning and execution to ensure the new reef’s safety and effectiveness.
The transformation of the Queen Isabella Causeway into a new artificial reef is a collaborative effort that brings together the expertise of TPWD and the GLO. The GLO will handle the removal of the Causeway, including the engineering, design, and demolition
TPWD will oversee the creation of the new reef, including identifying the ideal location, securing necessary permits and clearances, and developing a comprehensive reefing plan. This plan will ensure that the placement of materials effectively supports marine life. Throughout the project, TPWD will coordinate efforts to ensure that both the removal and reefing processes adhere to environmental standards and best practices.
A Lasting Legacy
The transformation of the Queen Isabella Causeway into an artificial reef exemplifies how old structures can be repurposed to benefit both the environment and the public. As the Causeway’s materials are repurposed, they will provide valuable habitat for marine species, including red snapper, and enhance recreational opportunities in the Gulf of Mexico. This initiative not only celebrates the potential of repurposing old infrastructure but also underscores a commitment to environmental health and sustainability. The new Queen Isabella Causeway Reef will become a dynamic underwater haven, supporting marine biodiversity and offering new experiences for anglers and divers alike. In this way, the Causeway’s legacy will endure as a vital part of Texas’s coastal environment.
This project is funded in part through a grant from the Texas General Land Office providing Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act of 2006 funding made available to the State of Texas and awarded under the Texas Coastal Management Program. The views contained herein are those of the authors and should not be interpreted as representing the views of the GLO or the State of Texas.
Figure 4: Site Map of the Queen Isabella Causeway Reefing Location.
EXTREME KAYAK FISHING & SHARKS FROM THE SAND
THE POMPTASTIC RUN
November is an exciting time for saltwater anglers in Texas. With fall migrations hitting their peaks, chaotic scenes unfold along the coast. Among the strongest fighting fish, pound for pound, jack crevalle feverishly chase trains of mullet down the beach. Massive schools of red drum gather and join the jacks in the frenzies. Sharks of various species terrorize prey throughout the nearshore waters. Hyper-aggressive tarpon feed heavily before moving out for the winter.
In the second half of autumn, these and many other predators prowl the surf zone. Some anglers enjoy chasing and catching all these kinds of fish, but one species in particular attracts a cult following. Not a large, menacing predator, nor a fish with a mouth full of razor sharp teeth, this species nevertheless draws anglers to the surf like hungry addicts.
The Florida pompano (Trachinotus carolinus) is a deep-bodied fish closely resembling those in the jack family. Despite their name, pompano are found as far north as New England and as far south as Brazil. Far from monstrous, they reach a maximum size of about six pounds in the waters of the Lone Star State. Smaller cousins of the elusive permit and similar in size to the much less common palometa, pomps show strong schooling tendencies and favor the clear waters prevalent along our coast during the cooler months.
While some rogue individuals remain in the shallows fronting our beaches all year-round, most abandon the Texas surf during the summer heat wave, returning to invade again sometime around mid to late-November. A cycle of frequently passing cold fronts chills the water temperatures and appears to trigger an urge in these fish to rush into the surf in search of easy meals. All experienced local anglers recognize this as the annual pompano run.
Primarily visual feeders, pompano head into the surf zone with eyes wide open, mostly early in the mornings and late in the afternoons, hoping to gorge mainly on small crustaceans, favoring various species of shrimp and tiny coquina clams. During these events, their numbers can be impressive indeed; Texas Parks and Wildlife does not regulate the species with bag and size limits. Folks wanting to experience how abundant these fish can be should head down to Padre Island on just about any summer night to witness the incredible numbers of juvenile pompano temporarily stranded close to the beaches when the tide rolls out.
These miniature versions of the mature population claim the pools fronting the warm, sandy beaches as their nursery. This horde of young pomps provides a temporary food source for many other species, including seatrout, redfish, mackerel and bluefish. Arguably, no type of fish
Perfect pompano fishing conditions on a beautiful fall sunrise.
covets the taste of Florida pompano as much as we human beings do.
The prime reason Florida pompano are so revered and highly desired is their impressive qualities as table fare. Many regard them as the best tasting fish regularly taken from the Texas surf. In addition to recreational anglers, commercial entities desire them too. Accordingly, people arrive in droves along the beaches this time of year, hoping to fill up their freezers with vacuum-sealed packages of delicious smoked fillets. The flesh of this species takes about as well to smoking as does salmon, but it also tastes great when baked or grilled.
Predicting the optimal days to target pompano from our beaches means correctly factoring in weather patterns and water conditions. Because they’re sight feeders, pomps flourish in relatively clear water. Generally, the water in our surf runs cleanest about two or three days after a cold front passes over the coast.
Then, normally for about two or three more days, ideal conditions prevail for targeting pompano, which generally populate the deeper guts outside the second sand bar. People who recognize a potentially productive weather window catch more pompano when they target them from stretches of beachfront where the guts narrow, placing the relatively deep waters seaward of the second bar within easy reach. These people also recognize how best to target these frisky little fish.
While they will sometimes attack small lures, natural baits work much better to get their attention. Deploying the baits on fairly long surf rods increases their effectiveness. I like to run two or three twelve-foot Breakaway rods, launching my baits as far away from the beach as possible.
On the business ends of the lines, I use Pomp Master leaders, available on Catchsharks.com. Designed specifically for the pompano, these leaders utilize visual attractants and carry specially designed 3/0 hooks, perfectly suited for shrimp, Fish-bites, or a combination of the two. Fish-bites, made of synthetic, odorless, biodegradable
mesh, have become quite popular over recent years, and they’ll catch plenty of pompano without help from fresh dead shrimp. These days, this is more true than ever, as Fish-bites recently released a new Ghost-shrimp flavored item, presumably designed specifically for pompano, sheepshead, and drum.
Wading out from the beach and launching the baits as far as possible works best, since most pompano feed in the depths of the second and third guts. On my most serious pomp missions, I keep two rods deployed, with a third rigged and ready on standby. When one or both of the deployed rods hooks a fish, I’m able to send out the bait on the third while we fight the fish. In the best scenarios, we wind up fighting fish almost constantly, once the action starts. Though no limits exist, we like to harvest responsibly, by releasing the smaller pomps we catch.
For several decades now, the pompano run has been a staple for Texas saltwater anglers during the winter months. On brisk, pristine mornings, when the pomps raid the guts, anglers storm the beaches, hoping to catch their share. Many people have perfected this pursuit by strategically timing their outings. Despite their size, pompano fight fiercely on lighter tackle, making them perfect for introducing the younger generation to surf fishing, but people of all ages enjoy targeting these sleek, silver savages. I know I’ll be out on the beach seeking some after our first major cold front passes in November.
CONTACT
For the past decade Eric ‘Oz’ Ozolins has been promoting shark catch and release and assisting various shark research programs. Eric offers guided shark fishing on Padre Island National Seashore. Also renowned for extreme kayak big game fishing, Eric is the owner of Catch Sharks Tackle Company.
Email oz@oceanepics.com Websites oceanepics.com | catchsharks.com
Known as exquisite table fare, a batch of smoked and vacuum-packed pompano fillets headed for the freezer.
Double hookups and landings are sometimes achieved when the pompano are feeding aggressively in the surf.
Smaller cousin of the Florida pompano; the palometa.
JAKE HADDOCK MOSTLY SIGHT-FISHING
SEEING BLUE
Ever since I could walk the bank of a pond, fishing pole in hand, I’ve had a particular appetite for sight fishing. Sure, you could catch a number of bluegill waiting for that little red and white bobber to go under but, there was always something special about seeing fish swim along the shore, picking a target, dropping bait directly to it and watching it eat. Landing the fish at that point is just the cherry on top of the whole experience. I guess as they say, some things never change. It’s been many years since I first walked the banks of that pond, and I still feel very strongly that this is the most exciting way to catch fish. I’ll go as far to say having a near miss experience with a large fish in a sight-fishing application is more memorable than landing that same caliber of fish blind-casting. Let me explain. I’m not sure how many of you
have caught a blue marlin before, but it’s essentially the pinnacle of sportfishing. Over the years I have dabbled in the sport of billfishing and I’m still very much a student of the game. Shortly after the destruction
Texas blue marlin. (Photo credit John Rizopoulos)
The SPAR rigs are quite a spectacle at night.
of Hurricane Harvey was over, I was invited to go on a 3-day trip on a sportfishing boat out of Port O’ Connor. I will never forget the timeline of that trip because when we got to the SPAR rig Boomvang, there was a crew boat on standby named Harvey Gladiator, almost too coincidental. The next morning the professional captain, only having one deckhand on board and some unexperienced anglers (i.e. me), was prepared with a very simple and yet effective spread. Four cup-faced lures pulled from the riggers, two squid chains for bridge teasers, and nothing in the shotgun position. We quickly landed a Yellowfin tuna over 100lbs. Then the real bite. There’s nothing like a screaming Shimano Tiagra clicker to wake you up from a post nightwatch cat nap. Never seeing the bite, I went for the rod as it was my turn. As I get to the chair and settle in, the marlin makes a short greyhounding run one way and then back the other. Increasing the drag, I start to crank, and the captain clicks the boat into reverse. Ten short minutes and it was a done deal. The mate bills the fish and gets the hook out in short order. A few kicks of the tail and the marlin fades into the abyss. Obviously memorable, it was my first marlin after all, but not as memorable as the next marlin tale. Fast forward a few years; while fishing in Costa Rica I was exposed to a particular style of billfishing that intrigued the hell out of me. Call it dredge fishing, teaser fishing, dink baiting, whatever; it’s sight fishing for billfish. Coming back to Texas, I couldn’t wait to try it out. At that time, I was regularly fishing on a sport boat out of Galveston. Without having all the fancy electric dredge reels, I had to figure out a way to deploy a dredge. After some studying on the web, I suspected I could pull a single tier dredge with an 80-wide reel if rigged on a pulley system. For those wondering what a dredge is, it’s basically a giant Alabama rig like the bass guys use, but full of hookless teaser baits. The idea is the cluster of teaser baits mimic a bait ball underneath the boat and piques the interest of a nearby billfish, drawing them into the spread. They are typically ran with a 10lb fish-shaped weight to hold the dredge 20 feet or so under the boat while trolling. After some testing I concluded this system would definitely work as I intended, and I was ready to give it a try.
Jake
Next trip out we reached a hard bottom spot in about 750ft of water. In goes the dredge and then the bridge teasers. The hook-bait starts to go into the rigger clip and snap! The line gets pulled right out of my buddy’s hand. A sailfish was all over the hooked bait. Before we could even react, the ballyhoo was off the hook, Sancocho! Well… I guess these dredges do work. Bumping out a bit further offshore we turn toward a platform rig that sits on the ledge. The sun was hitting the spread perfectly and I was perched on the shaded side of the gunnel, just like I saw the mates do in Costa Rica. All of a sudden a glowing purple shape appears under my hooked-bait. It was the man. Rushing to the rod all I could think of is how amazing this marlin was about to look jumping on the horizon. But I had no clue what I was doing, and I sensed the marlin knew that. The fish beat me to the rod and snatched the ballyhoo right off the hook. Staring blankly in awe and still trying to figure out what went wrong, I watched the marlin quickly zip to the right rigger and do the same thing. The vision of the marlins electric blue pectoral fins haunts me to this day.
Not too long after that trip the boat was sold. I have since gone on a few overnight trips in the Gulf of Mexico without much success. I feel cursed in a way. Maybe it’s because I wasn’t pushed off the dock after catching my first blue marlin in traditional fashion. I try not to be too superstitious, but after multiple trips without being able to redeem myself, I must wonder. It’s been a couple years since I’ve tried my luck against the man in the blue suit, but telling you this story has me wanting to walk the docks and see if I can’t catch a ride to the marlin grounds.
grew up in the back bays of Port O’ Connor where he developed a great passion for saltwater fishing. In his younger years he was a youth writer for this publication. In present day he enjoys guiding light tackle and fly clients in Galveston and occasionally Port O’ Connor.
Phone 713-261-4084
Email frigatebirdfishing@gmail.com
Website www.frigatebirdfishing.com
Haddock
Pacific sailfish showing off in Costa Rica.
Poor man’s dredge combo, simple yet effective.
PRODUCT
HUK
Daiwa
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New for fall 2024, Huk expands the Kona Collection with the Kona 5 Pocket Pant. Crafted from a cotton, polyester, and spandex blend, these pants are comfortable and durable. The 4-way stretch ensures maximum mobility, while the C0 durable water-repellent treatment and UPF 50+ rating ensure that anglers stay dry and protected. The Kona 5 Pocket Pants feature a range of sizes and inseams, making it Huk’s first pants to offer this level of customization. Available in Khaki, Moss, Naval Academy, and Harbor Mist and packed with features like a water-resistant stealth zippered pocket, rear utility loop, and comfort elastic waistband, it will quickly become a classic.
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Millennium Marine
Perhaps the most annoying question in the world is, “Is it hot enough for you?” Nothing can be worse for anglers than sitting for hours, waiting for that elusive strike while roasting in the hot summer sun. Or just for boaters, out for a fun day on the waterways, only to realize there’s just no escaping the rays of the sun as they burn down on a classic summer day.
Millennium Marine’s Shade Tree Umbrella and Fishing Umbrella Holder offer comfort and versatility on your boat during the summer sunshine. The Shade Tree Umbrella is made from an aluminum and composite construction, with a special coating to reflect heat. It will keep boater’s cooler than conventional umbrellas while providing a double layer of UV protection.
For more information on the Shade Tree Umbrella and Shade Tree Fishing Umbrella Holder, please visit MillenniumMarine.com
HIGHLIGHTS
Mowdy Boats of Texas - New Center Console Design
Mowdy Boats of Texas has been building premier custom boats since 1978. Mowdy continues to look for ways to enhance the quality and performance of their boats. One of Mowdy’s newest innovations is a new center console design. The larger area at the face of the center console can accommodate GPS chart plotters, switch panels, Bluetooth stereo head units, and other equipment for better visibility and functionality. The redesigned center console has enough room for two 12” GPS units. For the offshore fisherman who has radar, thermal imaging cameras, or other electronics, this is a real benefit. Another upgraded feature is the rod holders, 4 on each side that are integrated into the center console.
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Berkley ProSpec Chrome Braid
Berkley ProSpec Chrome Braid was expertly designed for the rigors of hardcore saltwater fishing. Featuring an 8-carrier construction, this smooth, supple braid offers enhanced strength, durability, and superior abrasion resistance – perfect for challenging saltwater environments. Its advanced coating improves casting distance, manageability, and eliminates the mess often caused by waxy braids, particularly when used with electric reels. Berkley’s top saltwater captains have tested and approved ProSpec Chrome Braid, making it a premium choice for serious anglers. www.Berkley-Fishing.com
Shrimping West Texas
When you think of a marine environment, what do you picture? Wetlands, possibly; coastal shores, perhaps. When you think of a shrimp farm, what do you picture? Some folks who know a thing or two about aquaculture might say any marine or freshwater environment will do. Bart Reid, one of the founders of the Permian Sea Shrimp company, is here to tell you otherwise. Shrimping West Texas is the story of that business and the history of the harebrained notion that farming shrimp is possible in the West Texas desert. Spanning twenty years of successes and failures, Reid captures the quintessential West Texas entrepreneurial spirit, tallies the unique environmental factors that made this possible, and depicts the motley crew of businessfolks, scientists, and schemers who were part of the tale. Barts-Bay-Armor.com
Matagorda
Bink Grimes is a full-time fishing and hunting guide, freelance writer and photographer, and owner of Sunrise Lodge on Matagorda Bay.
Telephone 979-241-1705
Email binkgrimes@yahoo.com Website matagordasunriselodge.com
THE VIEW FROM Matagorda
Very few locales in Texas, or in this world, offers consistent duck hunting in the morning and bay fishing in the afternoon. Matagorda in November is one of a few and I feel blessed to call it home. Our estuaries are rebounding – faster than I expected – with sound conservation and a changing attitude from Texans putting the good of the resource above frozen fillets.
Birds will work throughout the month over solid trout. East Bay, West Bay, Tres Palacios Bay, all are players and all will give up limits of trout on topwaters and soft plastics. Mid-bay reefs have produced heavy trout while wading with topwaters and soft plastics such as Down South Lures, Lil’ Johns, and Bass Assassins.
Good numbers of fish will be in the Diversion Channel this month. It’s a lot like bass fishing – pitching baits to timber and fallen logs from previous river rises. Don’t be afraid to toss a topwater along the bank. Solid trout hang on the edge in 5-8 feet of water and will bang a Super Spook, Skitter Walk, or She Pup.
West Matagorda Bay has been hot for limits of trout over shell while wading. Good stringers have come from around the Cedars and City Slickers on Super Spooks, She Dogs, Top Dogs, and Skitter Walks.
Waders have found good fish in West Matagorda Bay while wading the south shoreline and casting to points of shell. Topwaters and soft plastics have been the ticket. Half-Moon Reef in West Bay is always good when the wind allows. This month soft plastics and topwaters are a good bet and don’t be surprised to find birds working near the reef.
of redfish on cracked blue crabs, mullet, and fresh table shrimp. As always, this time of year encourages slot-sized redfish to school in bunches of two dozen or more along the grass line. Spots like Shell Island, Twin Island, Cut Off Flats and Zipperian Bayou in Matagorda are good spots. Mud Lake and Crab Lake are players along the shoreline with live shrimp.
Most November days will be spent duck hunting the mornings and fishing the afternoons. Afternoon fishing is just as profitable; and, few things rival a fish blowing up a topwater while the sun goes down.
Let’s continue to take care of our bays. There will be times this month when it will seem “too easy” to catch fish. Do our bays a favor and release more than you take; and, if you don’t need those fish, let them all go. More deposits in our bays can only help when growing quality speckled trout.
Enjoy November. Few things rival bombastic teal over a sunrise marsh, a lavender-backed speckled trout bounding to the surface as shrimp scatter, or 50 redfish cruising a back-lake shoreline with dorsal fins exposed.
Sunrise Lodge and Properties is a full service waterfront hunting and fishing lodge while also offering vacation rentals and coastal and farm and ranch real estate expertise.
The Colorado River normally spells good catches of trout under lights at night from the piers. During the day, trout to 20-inches have been found on Hogie’s, Bass Assassins, and Lil’ Johns. Bull redfish have been found all along the beachfront. All the jetties are players as well. The Matagorda jetties are holding lots
The Great Tool Wielders
Sea otters, dolphins, crows, elephants, octopuses, crocodiles—these animals, like humans, use tools for a variety of activities, from eating and drinking, to grooming and play, to combat and communication. But far fewer animals are known to manufacture and modify the tools, rather than simply using what they come across in their environment. And now, humpback whales are part of this much smaller group of “tool wielders.”
Researchers have long known that humpback whales use “bubblenets”—curtains made of blown bubbles—to catch the tiny crustaceans they feed on. But new research reveals just how sophisticated the making of these nets is and how the whales continually adjust and control them to ensure they catch as many prey as possible. Scientists at research institutes in Hawaii and Alaska wanted to find out how Alaskan populations of humpback whales, which spend their winters in Hawaii, manage to catch enough food during the Alaskan summer and fall to last them through the end of the year.
Biologists used specialized instruments attached to the whales to study the whales’ underwater behaviors and drones to watch from above the water’s surface. They discovered that the whales create the nets by blowing bubbles in strategic patterns with layers of internal rings. The whales control the number of rings, how large and deep the net is, and even the spacing between bubbles, thereby allowing them to catch up to seven times more krill on a single dive than they otherwise would. Reducing the number of dives conserves energy, and cooperative bubble-netting further lets them snare more food with less effort. Observing these hunting tactics in action, scientists saw how the whales consumed enough calories to make the long trip south for winter.
A humpback whale creates an intricate bubble net to catch lots of tiny crustaceans. Credit: Christin Khan, NOAA/NEFSC
Port O'Connor Seadrift
Captain Shellie Gray was born in Port Lavaca and has been guiding in the Seadrift/ Port O’Connor area full time for the past 22 years. Shellie specializes in wading for trout and redfish year round with artificial lures.
Telephone 361-785-6708
Email bayrats@tisd.net Website www.bayrat.com Facebook @captsgaryandshelliegray
MID-COAST BAYS With the Grays
Ahh…the crisp, cool mornings I have been waiting for have finally arrived. Fall is by far my favorite season. Shorter days and cooler air temperatures bring cooler bay waters and fish feeding more aggressively. And while I will continue to fish San Antonio Bay proper and all our back lakes, Hynes Bay gets a lot of my attention in November.
If you ever feel inclined to do a bit a bit of research, Hynes Bay has a very rich history that includes much about the Karankawa Indians. However, since this is supposed to be about fishing, I will leave out the history lesson and tell you more about why Hynes Bay is a fall hot spot.
Hynes Bay lies at the northwest corner of the San Antonio Bay system and is considered part of the Guadalupe Estuary. Hynes is a shallow bay, averaging 3- to 4-foot depths, with mostly soft, muddy bottoms. Each fall, after a few strong cold fronts pass through, the white shrimp that have been growing in the estuary will migrate into the open waters of Hynes, Mission, Guadalupe and San Antonio Bays. We have been fortunate this year to receive better than average rainfall and excellent growing conditions for the shrimp.
Once the shrimp start to migrate into the adjacent bays, birds can be found hovering above schools of trout and redfish feeding on them, hoping to get a fair share of the bounty. Birds resting on the surface of the water are
also a good indication that there are fish feeding in the area, maybe just not as concentrated.
The feeding frenzies tend to be at their peaks during early morning hours, usually subsiding by midday. I should also mention that a north wind is almost always better than a south wind. Calm south wind won’t hinder you too much, but if it’s blowing too hard from the south the waters in Hynes get muddied up quick and are not as productive.
When you locate a flock of birds working frantically it is best to motor upwind of the activity, no closer than 25 or 30 yards. Drifting instead of motoring into the area will help avoid spooking the feeding fish. Better yet, if your boat is equipped with a trolling motor, use it to get within casting distance. Wading is not a good option because of the muddy bottoms. Besides, you may find yourself hopping from one school of feeding fish to another in a matter of minutes some days.
My favorite rigging when fishing this scenario is to add about 18 inches of 20lb leader and an 1/8-ounce jighead, below a Mauler-style float or popping cork attached to the main line. Because the fish will usually be feeding so aggressively, there is no need for live bait. Soft plastics are your best option, simply because you get the same results as with live shrimp, but without the constant re-baiting after every strike. When fishing a feeding school such as these, I don’t believe color is as important as when searching for scattered fish somewhere on a reef. But to be safe, I do keep the color selection more natural, like a 4-inch Bass Assassin Sea Shad in either Silver Phantom/Chartreuse Tail or Pumpkinseed/Chartreuse. Scented soft plastics are also a good choice, but hardly necessary when the action is fast-paced.
You will find it doesn’t take but a couple of pops of your cork before you are hooked up. Many species take advantage of these migrating shrimp, so don’t be surprised when you catch a little bit of everything under the birds. And yes, gafftop, skipjacks, and other less-desirable species will likely be among those grabbing your lure. I guess you just have to take the good with the bad.
You will also be catching some smaller trout, and if they aren’t hooked too deeply, I like to grab the hook with my pliers and give it a quick flip to avoid handling them. Releasing them in this fashion definitely increases their chances to swim away unharmed.
When I’m not targeting trout and redfish in Hynes Bay this month, you will likely find me wading or drifting the reefs in San Antonio Bay. Keep your eye on the weather, though, things can change quickly as northers approach and the middle of the bay is no place for taking chances.
I would like to give thanks to all our readers, clients, friends and family. Without your loyal support we wouldn’t be where we are today. Happy Thanksgiving!
Just a quick reminder that no flounder may be retained starting November 1 thru December 14!
Lindsey Rainey enjoyed her battle with this big redfish.
ESCAPE
RD WO RK
On Texas’ only tropical island, anglers can catch their limit from the jetties, in the bay or out in the Gulf. Scan and plan your escape today.
Upper Laguna/ Baffin
David Rowsey has 30 years in Baffin and Upper Laguna Madre; trophy trout with artificial lures is his specialty. David has a great passion for conservation and encourages catch and release of trophy fish.
Telephone 361-960-0340 Website www.DavidRowsey.com Email david.rowsey@yahoo.com @captdavidrowsey
HOOKED UP WITH Rowsey
And just like that, three fronts came in and dropped the water temp into the 60s. Mike looked a little confused and asked, “What’s the significance in that?” I replied, “Mike, it’s the difference between yin and yang when it comes to trophy trout fishing. It means consistency, pays off like the fish lotto, and the chance at justification of your wife’s half of the money you have spent to catch big trout.” Mike lifted his cheeks and squinted his eyes as his head fell back towards his shadow. “Yeah, let’s keep that between us, Captain.”
There is no doubt that I have been blessed by God to be a fisherman. That I eventually became a guide who gets to live his passion on most days of the year, gets to share his craft with other like-minded souls, make improbable friendships that will last all the way up to the big pond, and get paid to do it all. That conversation with Mike just reminded me how lucky I am, even on the toughest days, and I wanted to give all of my current and past clients the gratitude and thanks they deserve. Huge thanks to all of you for making 35+ years of kicking rocks in Baffin, and the loss of a couple retirements all worth it. I really do love and appreciate each and every one of you for the trust you continue to put into me and my time on the water.
Late November is when that trust really starts coming to fruition. The cold fronts will continue slipping in, water temps will be stabilizing in the 60s, and the larger trout will start becoming considerably more concentrated. That’s great for us, as a target-rich environment provides multitudes more opportunity when trying to set personal records or having a fish story for your buddies that can be referred to as epic. November patterns will span far into the spring. The main reason is that water temperatures and bait supply are not going to waver much during this time period. The same warm shallow flats that produce in the afternoon now, will most likely still have the potential to be producing months from now. The one thing we all need to understand, and is so important, is that areas we fished last year and had success may be total flops this year.
In the Upper Laguna and Baffin Bay systems, it’s not just the spot you favor, but the structure within that particular area that is the key, and that is what will change from season to season. Like a magic trick, sandy potholes within your favorite area will vanish from year to year, only to reappear in different areas the following season. It is absolutely key that you spend as much time as possible using your eyes to locate, and add to your memory bank, the layouts of these new sand holes that are developing. Whether it’s the King Ranch Shoreline, The Meadows, or the south shoreline of Baffin, the same scenario will play out. To up your game and be successful through the coming big trout
season, know your hunting grounds intimately.
With all my years in the water down here, learning the lessons of structure, that never stays the same, is the key to catching more and larger trout on a consistent basis in Baffin Bay. You don’t always have to be casting to become a better fisherman! As mentioned in an earlier article, the bay is full of trout… really solid fish, and tons of smalls that will soon be in that 20” class. This is such a beacon of light for our fishery as a whole. Whether you are into trophies or numbers, this season is going to have it all. If you are new to this game and want to learn the ins and outs of it, feel free to contact me. All I require is a good attitude and willingness to learn. Skill level is irrelevant to me.
In closing, north winds are blowing grass away from the shallow shorelines where all of that new structure will appear. All of our favorite plugs, MirrOlure Fatboys, Soft Dines, and 27s will be free to work their magic without the hassle of getting grassed up while targeting the largest trout available on any given day. Fill that wade box with your favorite plugs made by MirrOlure and the forever versatile 5” Bass Assassins. No excuses!
Remember the buffalo! -Capt. David Rowsey
Russell Abendroth with one of numerous 7-plus trout caught on this day of strong NE wind that had muddied the water. Point being, I knew the structure was there, although not being able to see it. Understanding what is below the surface is crucial in this game.
View The Video Open Camera and hover over QR Code. When link appears at top of screen tap to open in YouTube.
Port Mansfield
Captain Wayne Davis has been fishing the Lower Laguna-Port Mansfield for over 20 years. He specializes in wade fishing with lures.
Telephone
210-287-3877
Email captwayne@kwigglers.com
WAYNE’S Mansfield Report
Greetings from Port Mansfield! Finally looking forward to some cooler temperatures, which seemed a bit late in arriving this season. I remember toward the end of September, just praying for a cold front, but at that time it was just wishful thinking.
As most serious anglers know, a lot of folks will be putting up their rod and reels this month and reaching for rifles and heading to the deer lease. As a full-time year-round angler, I am fine with that. Despite being here in Port Mansfield with the vast flats of the Lower Laguna, it can sometimes get a little crowded out there.
I would like to recap briefly on our Texas Women Anglers Fish Camp we hosted back in September and point out how quickly things can change with just the slightest decrease in water levels. At the time of the camp, we had high water and with that the trout (mostly over twenty-five inches) were staged high up on the sand in less than knee-deep water. The first day was one for the books, most ladies landed their personal-best trout, and we had ten trout over twenty-five inches up to twenty-eight. Most of the ladies landed their fish on topwaters, which made it super exciting, and a few got them on the KWigglers Wig-A-Lo. Knowing what we thought we knew, and after a brief discussion, we figured to hit the same area the following day as conditions were not changing much, with one exception, which we discovered the following morning… Heading out of the harbor, we noticed the water level dropped no more than a couple of inches. I reasoned this slight change would simply move the trout out just a bit deeper. We set up our wade accordingly, all with high hopes of big topwater explosions. After about 45 minutes it began to sink in that something was off, the fish had moved. Sure, we had a few good blowups, but most were small reds. However, we did produce a 24-inch trout within the first hour. We all discussed our next move, which led us out just a bit deeper, figuring they had moved out farther than we thought. But that was not the case. These fish made a major adjustment with just a few inches of water level decrease. This is not something to bet the farm on, just something for the toolbox if you should encounter a comparable situation. Knowing this now, we should have made a major adjustment, not a minor one…
What might that major adjustment look like? Well, since we were on the east side of the bay on hard-packed sand in gin-clear water, one idea might be to move to the west side of the bay and look at cloudy water. Another idea might be to check chalky water with a softer bottom. On both options, I would also need to see some bait activity. This is obviously a hindsight consideration, but one to think about, nonetheless. I digress…
As the water cools heading into fall, fishing will undoubtedly turn on and it will be obvious what is unfolding by just the way fish will look. It will be most notable in trout; their bellies will be more than just plump, and their shoulders will be broad and firm. Some call it more of a football appearance. Topwaters will be the bait of choice and there will be times we will not be able to get it away from them. Flats fishing will be at its best during this time of the year. Potholes, grass beds, flickering mullet and piggie perch will be the recipe you want to see and, best of all you, will be witnessing it in less than two feet of water.
Our fishery is in decent shape overall, with a lot of smaller trout in the daily mix of solid numbers of mid-sized trout. Not to mention a good smattering of trout in the mid- to upper-twenties. With this in perspective, our fall and winter fishing should be epic. Even looking further down the road, say three years out or longer, we will undoubtedly have a trout fishery second to none. We should always keep in mind that good stewardship should be at the fore of our thoughts and angling efforts to ensure the quality of our fishery for generations to come.
Until next time; remember that fresh is better than frozen. View The Video
Amanda Steffen, owner of Port Mansfield’s Sunset House Motel, with her personal-best trout during the recent Ladies Fish Camp.
Doug Combs shows off a dandy Lower Laguna speck he tricked with a KWiggler’s Willow Tail.
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Arroyo Colorado to Port Isabel
A Brownsville-area native, Capt. Ernest Cisneros fishes the Lower Laguna Madre from Port Mansfield to Port Isabel. Ernest specializes in wading and poled skiff adventures for snook, trout, and redfish.
Cell 956-266-6454
Website www.tightlinescharters.com
SOUTH PADRE Fishing Scene
The end of 2024 is rapidly approaching as we enter the late fall and winter seasons. I want to share some observations and lessons I have learned through fly and sight-cast fishing in this article that might help you become a better angler. Most fishermen simply get up and go fishing, but few anglers put in the effort to recognize and utilize the subtle signs of fish behavior to achieve greater success on the water. I’m not saying one type of fisherman is better than the other; after all, enjoying yourself is what matters most. Ultimately, though, you go fishing to get your line tugged, right?
Over the years, I have picked up on a few tricks, including the presentation of your artificial offerings. In fly fishing, the retrieve or strip, differs for each species you target. When targeting tarpon, the strip is long and slow; for bonefish, it’s short, quick strips; for redfish, it’s continuous short strips, but can vary according to their attitude and feeding behavior.
First, you should always consider the depth and temperature of the water, along with the fish’s feeding attitude, being able to see the fish helps. If the retrieve speed is not what the fish want, they will quickly dart away. Knowing if the fish are moving around, feeding, or lying stationary on the bottom can determine how to present your lure. If you see mud puff after mud puff as fish scamper away, this tells me the fish are not just lying on the bottom. So, I will retrieve my lure slowly. If bites come frequently with the fish seeming to inhale the lure, I will be working the lure at a faster pace.
Many fishermen get hung up on lure color; I pay more attention to size. Fish tend to be picky when they are not feeding aggressively. Put it this way; you don’t always want a 16-ounce ribeye, sometimes a juicy 6-ounce filet is more appealing. The same applies to fish.
Weather will become a greater factor in November. Usually, three to four cold fronts blow through this month. Fishing ahead of a front is often exceptional. However, atmospheric pressure will be high immediately following the frontal passage, which makes for tough fishing. It typically takes two or three days for the pressure to moderate and feeding patterns to return to normal. Keeping track of water temperature becomes essential to fishing success in the colder months. Most GPS/Depth Finders have this capability, but even a small handheld thermometer can get the job done. Suppose you find fish at a specific water temperature; try locating that same temperature at your next spot. Also, remember that fish will usually move slower in colder water; adjust the speed of your presentations accordingly.
schools. We have encountered a few larger schools but haven’t yet been able to pattern them. We have lately been seeing greater numbers of redfish on the eastside sand flats. Locating long trains of mullet has been helpful in patterning these fish. Gold spoons have been working well; the flash and vibration attracts them from afar in the almost gin-clear water. Z-Man soft plastics also continue to fool lots of reds for us.
I believe our trout fishery is improving steadily and we are already seeing a few big ones out there. Steadily declining water temperatures during the fall season always provide better trout action, and already lucky anglers have landed trout in the twenty-four to twenty-eightinch range. I hope that is a glimpse of good things to come for the winter season ahead.
Trout will begin feeding more aggressively and for longer periods and this will be easily noticeable in the number of slicks popping along shorelines and other types of structure. Evening hours can bring phenomenal fishing, and not only will the fishing be great, but the bays will be largely empty of boat traffic.
Hoping for a big trout this early winter? Think shallow; find concentrations of bait and focus on the lunar cycles that bring strong tide movements. Also, pay attention to the birds, and where and when they feed.
Water temperatures will soon decline to the point where we will need waders, usually around Thanksgiving. It is recommended to test your waders for leaks in a swimming pool beforehand. I have been wearing Simms G4Z zipper-front waders for six years and I highly recommend them. The G4Z is not a cheap wader but worth every penny. Fishing Tackle Unlimited carries them and many more Simms products that provide comfort to anglers on cold days.
Currently, most of our redfish are being found in smaller, scattered
View The Video Open Camera and hover over QR Code. When link appears at top of screen tap to open in YouTube.
Kiley Ellsworth – nice fall trout – CPR.
Shane tricked this nice snook on a Z-Man soft plastic – CPR.
Bulkhead & Seawall Repair
FISHING REPORTS AND FORECASTS from Big Lake to Boca Chica
Trinity Bay - East Bay - Galveston Bay | James Plaag
Silver King Adventures - silverkingadventures.com - 409.935.7242
James reported experiencing one of the great runs of tarpon fishing in his life. “I spent all summer looking for ‘em, and finally found ‘em last week. I don’t know how many were hooked by all the people I saw working the schools, but it had to be hundreds. They were just spread up and down the coast for miles and miles. Of course, now we have a storm out there and the whole thing’s over with, but it was fun while it lasted. Fishing in the bays has picked up a little bit for the waders. They’ve been doing pretty well on the days soon after the fronts cool things off somewhat, but the hot weather comes right back and the bite gets tough again. What we need is a blaster front, which we usually get right around Halloween, and the bite will pick up significantly. The tides will start to fall out and the water will cool off, and we’ll have much better luck catching the trout and reds. November sets up to be a great month if and when that happens. It’s one of the best months to catch some of the bigger trout in West Bay and its satellites.”
Jimmy West | Bolivar Guide Service - 409.996.3054
When we talked, Jim said the dove season had turned out great. “I’ve got a bunch of birds now, so we’re hunting lots of days. We’ll continue hunting doves through the end of the year. And, of course, we’re looking forward to the start of big duck season right now. It’s hard to say how good that will be, with all the freshwater inland, but we should have plenty of birds on some of the properties I like to hunt. The fishing will begin to perk up quite a bit as we get into November too. Lately, we’ve had good numbers of redfish in the shallows in the upper portions of both Trinity and East bays, and once the water temperatures cool down some more with the stronger fronts, the trout will show up in the same places. Of course, it remains to be seen how good the fishing will be for the bigger trout, after all these flood events this year. Either way, I’ll go back to fishing some more, on the days when I don’t book a bunch of hunts. We usually catch a mix of upper-slot reds and bigger than average trout wading the afternoons this time of year.”
West Galveston - Bastrop - Christmas - Chocolate Bays
Randall Groves | Groves Guide Service
979.849.7019 - 979.864.9323
Randall mentions two really productive options for catching trout and redfish in the month of November in the area around San Luis Pass. “On the better days, when the tide is relatively high, the weather’s pretty warm, and the lakes and coves are full of water, the wading can be great for some of the bigger trout. We like to work areas with a mix of mud and shell on the bottom and throw slow-sinking twitch baits most of the time. If we see lots of mullet and other baitfish jumping out of the water or huddled and moving fast right at the surface, we’ll try topwaters. After strong fronts push through, the backwater areas become void of life for a bit, and the fishing is excellent out in the main basin of West Bay, in water too deep for wading. Out there, we usually find our fish in places where giant rafts of mullet are milling around and jumping. Often, the water looks pretty dingy in the places where the trout and reds are concentrated. And, we often see several kinds of birds, including cormorants, terns, pelicans and gulls working in the same areas. Soft plastics work best in that situation.”
Matagorda Bays | Capt. Glenn Ging Glenn’s Guide Service - 979.479.1460 www.glennsguideservice.com
“November is one of my favorite months to fish the bays in the Matagorda area. November brings crisp, cool sweatshirt mornings and wonderfully mild middays. The fish will still be feeding full tilt on the last of the shrimp migrating out of the bays, so I’ll still fish the birds quite a bit this month. We usually see increasing numbers of redfish in the schools feeding under the birds as the month goes on, as well as a larger percentage of bigger, quality trout. Vudu shrimp, Hogie shrimptails and Bass Assassin Little P&Vs dangled under Coastal Corks will all produce plenty of bites. Paddletails and rattails rigged on eighth-ounce heads and fished closer to the bottom without the corks work well too. In addition to fishing the birds, we will start to focus on targeting bigger trout and reds around shell pads close to the shorelines and around marsh drains, especially after we get some stronger cool fronts. We should also start to catch decent numbers of fish in the Colorado River and Diversion Channel, mainly working the banks with four and five-inch Assassin Sea Shads rigged on quarter-ounce jigheads. Topwaters can work really well too.”
Palacios | Capt. Aaron Wollam www.palaciosguideservice.com - 979.240.8204
Fishing in the Tres Palacios area has been very consistent for the last month. We got some big equinox tides in and that push of new water has triggered a good bite. Redfish have continued to fill our boxes this fall, with fish still found over shell and any structure on local shorelines. We have been troll-motoring shorelines throwing live and fresh dead shrimp about a foot under popping corks for best results. Trout fishing dramatically improved with the salinity finally going back up; deep reefs and wellheads out in West Matagorda Bay have produced the best fishing for folks using live shrimp under popping corks. Flounder gigging remains good, as most giggers have been averaging near-limits most nights, doing best when we have light winds. Shorelines with pea gravel and clay bottoms have produced most of the flatfish. Black drum remain steady over shell pads, and they seem to want fresh dead compared to live shrimp. We’ve have been posting up on shell beds and fishing the shallow ends of deep reefs for best results. Cooler water temperatures should make for excellent fishing next month, as bait starts to exit the bays. This time of year, locating lots of bait is key.
Port O’Connor | Lynn Smith
Back Bay Guide Service - 361.935.6833
When November arrives, Lynn expects to change up his basic plans a bit, to take better advantage of the cooling weather and water temperatures. “We generally don’t like to leave the dock early in the mornings this month. It’s better to leave around lunch time and fish into the lateafternoon hours. This allows the sun to heat up the water as much as possible. This plan pays the biggest dividends on the days soon after strong fronts pass over the coast. Most years, the fishing is good around the main-bay reefs and close to drains that dump water out of the coves and back-lakes on falling tides. One of the best scenarios of all develops on sunny days when the water in the shallowest portions of the bays heats up more than the deeper water, and then the tide rolls out in the afternoon, spilling the warmer water into the main bodies of the bays. When this happens, trout, redfish and flounder
all stack up in the warm currents, normally close to the shorelines on the main-bay sides of the drains. This is a great scenario for fishing slowsinking twitch baits. On the best days, topwaters work great too.”
Rockport | Blake Muirhead
Gator Trout Guide Service - 361.790.5203 or 361.441.3894
November is a favorite month for spending time in the outdoors in the Coastal Bend for Blake. Cast & Blast season heats up in earnest. “With the start of big duck season, I’ll be running more charters hunkered down in the blinds in the mornings until the shooting slows way down, or we get our limits, then fish our way out. Normally, the fishing for reds is great in the marshy areas where we hunt the ducks, and we’re able to find plenty by running around in the air boat. On the warmer days, with the better weather, fishing for trout can be outstanding this month too, especially in some of the local bays with lots of mud mixed with shell on the bottom. During the middle of the days and into the afternoon hours, the trout bite often picks up. We catch well on a variety of lures this month. It can be great for topwaters, as long as the weather isn’t really cold, with clear skies. But, on average, soft plastics work better. We catch plenty of fish on our old standby Norton Sand Eels in dark colors with bright tails and on Gulp! split-tails if the bite’s tough.”
Upper Laguna Madre - Baffin Bay - Land Cut Robert Zapata | rz1528@grandecom.net - 361.563.1160
With so many people headed into the ranch lands to hunt monster South Texas bucks and into the marshes to hunt ducks, the traffic on the water in the ULM and Baffin Bay slows to a crawl this month. This is a great thing for those of us who love to target trout and redfish. During the Thanksgiving month, with the longer, cooler nights, the fish will spend more time in the deeper water after the sun comes up, waiting for the water in the shallows to warm up some. So, we often start off the day wading shallow areas close to deeper water, so we can cast into water over three feet deep and work our lures close to the bottom. Once the middle of the morning arrives, and on into the afternoons, we like to move shallower. We experience some really good fishing right against the bank in the Lagoon, also on shorelines and on the shallow spines of sand bars in Baffin, once the water heats up. The bite is often great then on slow-sinking twitch baits in bright, flashy colors like gold/chartreuse. On the mildest days, She Dogs and similar topwaters work well too.
Corpus Christi | Joe Mendez - www.sightcast1.com - 361.877.1230
In November, several different productive patterns emerge for anglers targeting trout and redfish in the Corpus Christi area. “If the weather’s warm, the fishing in the shallows is usually good this month. We catch lots of quality trout and reds trolling around close to the King and Kenedy Ranch shorelines in the Upper Laguna Madre and tossing our soft plastics at potholes and rocks, and along the edges of the big mats of dead grass. In this situation, the early morning hours usually produce the best action. Of course, we expect colder weather to become more regular this month, and when the water temperatures drop down into the 50s and stay there a while, the patterns change. Then, the ICW and the channels connecting to it become full of shrimp, trout and redfish. Most of the time, after this happens, gulls and terns will be working the waters of the ditches, dipping down to grab shrimp trying to escape from the trout. When all this sets up, the action is usually best late in the afternoons, often on flats close to the secondary channels. Sometimes, the first hour of darkness is much better than any other time of day.”
P.I.N.S. Fishing Forecast | Eric Ozolins
361.877.3583 - Oceanepics.com
November is regarded as the best surf-fishing month in Texas. The finger
mullet migration is in full force, and mornings are loaded with explosive jack crevalle action. Jacks will hit large spoons, swimbaits and topwaters, but the surest bait for them is usually live mullet. Due to regulations for the winter, mullet must be of legal size. Casting out mullet will often entice bites from oversized reds. All big reds should be released, unless they’re kept for mounting purposes. These spawners are important to the fishery, and the quality of their meat noticeably decreases in edibility. Tarpon will be either on the beach or the jetties of south Texas until around Thanksgiving before they head out for the winter. Spanish mackerel and bluefish will also be wreaking havoc on bait in the surf. Near the end of the month, the pompano bite will begin to get good, improving with each passing cold front. Shark action will remain phenomenal, mostly for healthy, medium-sized bulls, large blacktips, and the occasional tiger. Abundant freshwater in Texas the past couple of months is making its way into the Gulf of Mexico, and it may force us to make adjustments to our strategies.
Port Mansfield, Texas | Capt. Michelle Frazier fraz2frazoutdoors@yahoo.com - 956.369.2045
The arrival of November means the season for wearing waders is fast approaching. Cold fronts will become stronger and more frequent on the Lower Laguna Madre. There will however still be plenty of warm days in between, making the water temperatures fluctuate. Monitoring the water temperature is helpful during this month. Air and water temperatures will affect where the fish can be found. Redfish can still be found fishing the drop-off in the East Cut. KWigglers punch/metal flake Wig-A-Los rigged on 2/0 quarter-ounce jigheads have been producing some nice fish. An occasional flounder can also be found fishing the same area. When the wind allows, wading the West Shoreline near the Oak Mottes and the mouth of Little Bay can also be productive for both trout and redfish. On days when the wind is a little stronger, fishing the cabins around the Saucer can be dependable. Trout are becoming more active and can be caught in the mornings on topwaters, but as the day progresses, soft plastics tend to work better. The Mansfield Knocker in the Ruby Tuesday color has been working well lately. Anglers should keep an eye on the weather, since November fronts can arrive suddenly and without much warning.
Lower Laguna Madre - South Padre - Port Isabel Aaron Cisneros | tightlinescharters.com - 956.639.1941
It’s been really pleasant on the Lower Laguna Madre lately, with the arrival of recent cooler weather. Trout fishing has been good on most days. We’re finding all sizes schooling together. Early in the mornings, we’ve been finding them aggressively biting on sand bars. Four-inch Z-Man DieZel MinnowZ in the redbone color rigged on quarter-ounce Eye-strike Trout-eye jigheads have been producing more bites than anything else, especially when we’re working them low and slow. Later in the afternoon, trout fishing has been best on grassy flats covered by two to three feet of water. Then, we’re keying on slicks to pinpoint the best areas to target the fish. Redfish numbers are great, and we’re finding most of our fish in really shallow water. Back-bays, spoil islands and main-bay shorelines have all produced good catches at times. Bone Spook Juniors rigged with single hooks have earned lots of blow ups early in the mornings, when winds are relatively calm. Once the wind picks up, redfish follow the bait to flats riddled with numerous potholes in three to four feet of water. Four-inch Z-Man DieZel MinnowZ in the opening night color are perfect when worked really fast through the sandy pockets.
Blake Sawyer East Matagorda Bay- first trout!
Megan Abdo Seabrook - 36” redfish
John Jacobs & Julia Dugan Laguna Madre- 27” & 23”redfish
Noah Raleigh POC - black drum
Chad Hickman West Galveston Bay- first fish!
Chris Lucas Laguna Madre- trout
Jacob Roberts West Galveston Bay- personal best red!
First come – first published! Photos are judged on artistic merit and sporting ethic displayed. No stringer, cleaning table, or hanging board images allowed. Digital images only. Adjust camera to high or best quality. All images become property of TSFMag. Email to: Photos@TSFMag.com Include short description of your catch with name, date, bay system, etc.
Photo Gallery
Deveraux Reyna San Antonio Bay- 24” redfish
Maddie Baumbach POC - 22” sheepshead
Avery Desmarais 8-10”- first fish!
Landry Chavana 22” personal best flounder!
Sara Solansky Dewberry Island- 27” redfish
Martin & Mason Leos Port Aransas- 24” sheepshead
Edna Ramsey Sabine Jetty- jack crevalle
Rich Gonzalez Port Arthur- 36.5”redfish
Bailee Coy San Antonio Bay- 32” jack crevalle
Got ideas, hints or recipes you’d like to share?
Email them to pam@tsfmag.com or send by fax: 361 792-4530
Gulf Coast
Shrimp Crostini Appetizers
INGREDIENTS
• 1 lb fresh large shrimp
• 2 Tbsp butter
• 1/2 tsp thyme
• 1/4 cup shredded Colby cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded Monterey jack cheese
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 pinch salt and pepper
• 1 H-E-B Bakery Baguette French Bread or French Bread Garlic Toast Crostini
PREPARATION
Set oven to medium broil.
If using baguette French bread, cut into ½” slices and set aside.
Peel and devein shrimp, and chop into large pieces.
Mix butter, thyme, cheeses, mayo, salt, and pepper; fold in shrimp pieces and layer on the crostini slices or sliced French bread.
Arrange on baking sheet.
Place on middle rack and broil for 10 minutes until bubbly, or until shrimp are done.
Note: This recipe is as delightfully delicious as it is quick and easy to put together. I have prepared it quite a few times for various gatherings and it has always been a hit. Crazy thing is that even though it is primarily intended as a snack course or appetizer, I have actually made some large batches and served it with a seafood bisque and salad for dinner. Consider making it for your guests this holiday season, I’m sure they’ll love it.
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