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c ontents
Editor and Publisher Everett Johnson
september 2009 Volume 19 No. 5
Everett@tsfmag.com General Manager
11
Pam Johnson
FEATURES
Pam@tsfmag.com
10 Droolings From the Dock 14 A Progression.... 18 Heroes of Conservation 22 Bodie and the Netters 24 Do you Speak the Language?
Mike McBride Kevin Cochran Billy Sandifer Martin Strarup Chuck Uzzle
DEPARTMENTS
22
40
Billy Sandifer UT-Marine Science Institute Jay Watkins Casey Smartt Bobby Byrd/John Cochrane CCA Texas Amy Larimer Scott Null Scott Sommerlatte Aaron Cisneros Ruben Villarreal Rick Underbrink/Russell Weir
46
Dickie Colburn’s Sabine Scene Mickey on Galveston Capt. Bill’s Fish Talk Mid-Coast Bays with the Grays Hooked up with Rowsey Capt. Tricia’s Port Mansfield Report South Padre Fishing Scene
Dickie Colburn Mickey Eastman Bill Pustejovsky Gary Gray David Rowsey Capt. Tricia Ernest Cisneros
REGULARS
68
6 46 48 64 66 68 72
Editorial TSFMag Spotlight New Tackle & Gear Fishing Reports and Forecasts Photo Gallery – Catch of the Month Gulf Coast Kitchen Index of Advertisers
about the Cover
Angler Peter Stiles displays his first fly-caught redfish. photo by Scott Sommerlatte photo Just Keep Five
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WHAT OUR GUIDES HAVE TO SAY… 50 52 54 56 58 60 62
Shirley Elliott Shirley@tsfmag.com
Office: 361-785-3420 Cell: 361-550-9918
19 Coastal Birding 26 Science and the Sea 28 Let’s Ask The Pro 30 Fly Fishing 32 Offshore 34 Conservation 36 TPWD Field Notes 38 Kayak Fishing 40 According to Scott 42 Youth Fishing 44 Every Man’s Offshore 46 Sharkathon
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how to contact tsfmag: Phone: 361-785-3420 fax: 361-785-2844 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 429, Seadrift, Texas 77983 Physical Address: 58 Fisherman’s Lane, Seadrift, TX 77983 Web: www.TSFMAG.COM photo gallery: photos@tsfmag.com Printed in the USA. Texas Saltwater Fishing Magazine (ISSN 1935-9586) is published monthly by Texas Saltwater Fishing Magazine, Inc., 58 Fisherman’s Lane, Seadrift, Texas 77983 l P. O. Box 429, Seadrift, TX 77983 © Copyright 1990 All rights reserved. Positively nothing in this publication may be reprinted or reproduced. *Views expressed by Texas Saltwater Fishing Magazine contributors do not necessarily express the views of Texas Saltwater Fishing Magazine. Periodical class permit (USPS# 024353) paid at Victoria, TX 77901 and additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Texas Saltwater Fishing Magazine, Inc., P. O. Box 429, Seadrift, TX 77983.
September 2009
5
Texas’ middleCoast Spotted Seatrout fishery S
even years ago TPWD-Coastal Fisheries created Spotted Seatrout Work Group, a panel of key stakeholders selected to assist the agency as they sought to enter an era of proactive fishery management. Hal Osburn, then division director, advised that spotted seatrout populations were showing signs of growing recreational harvest pressure. Reducing pressure before spawning biomass fell into greater decline could forestall need for sweeping regulatory changes in the wake of the next fish-killing freeze. Regulatory measures (bag limits) employed to that time had largely been agency reaction following freezes in 1983 and 1989. Hal cited explosive growth of rec angling and advances in angling efficiency. The combination, he said, created the greatest fishing pressure the resource had ever faced. The upshot of SSWG, it was hoped, would be popular support of more conservative regulations to insure swift recovery from natural events and enhanced future viability, all the while maximizing the socio-economic benefit that could be derived from the resource. Hal said we needed to reduce the daily bag limit from ten trout to seven and increase the minimum length from fifteen to sixteen inches. He called it a “best fit” for the whole coast at that time. Though the stakeholder panel eventually supported Hal’s plan during their final session, it gained little support in the outdoor press, with too few fishermen, and too few fishing guides. The backlash crushed the message. So it is now seven years later, sagging trout populations in the Lower Laguna brought a five fish daily bag in 2007, while the ten fish limit has remained for the rest of the coast. According to TPWD stats; sales of saltwater licenses grew 25% and angling effort increased 50% between 2001 and 2008 coastwide. Locally, population density surveys signal significant decline of the seatrout fishery in Aransas and San Antonio bays for the same period. Should we have listened better? Veteran mid-coast guides and anglers are reporting the worst trout fishing they can recall, including freeze years. Midcoast boat ramps are uncommonly quiet, except perhaps on major tournament weekends. Mid-coast guides striving to put clients on decent catches are flocking to the Upper Laguna and Baffin Bay. It concerns me that we have snagged all the easy pickings and are now drilling deeply into the mother lode, the backbone of the mid-coast trout fishery. We are twenty winters without a freeze and no red tide, our bays should be brimming. But where are the trout…hiding in secret holes not yet divined? Managers say they’re not sure; more data is needed to better understand the trend. My personal suspicion is that we may have tricked too many into accepting rides in Igloos. I just returned from Florida where spotted seatrout are managed via a combination of tight bag limits (by Texas standards), narrow slots, and closed seasons. A view of what has transpired there and what we now find on our mid-coast refreshes my memory of Hal and his plan for proactive fisheries management. I pray we never see a closed season for specks here in Texas. So while TPWD seeks to solve the mystery of the missing trout, maybe we should practice a bunch of C&R until they can. If you feel you need some to fry, just keep five.
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Droolings from the Dock
I
I read in a good book somewhere that
“to everything there is a season.” Unfortunately, this has been my season to sit things out as far as fishing goes. I really can’t complain a whole lot, though. As mentioned in the July issue I’m actually quite fortunate to be alive much less have a foot left to stand on following a good stingray poke back in May. The hit itself wasn’t so bad, but an ensuing round of necrotizing fasciitis was. For the lesser read among us, the term describes an extremely aggressive flesh-eating condition, this one presumably from the increasingly infamous bacterium commonly called Vibrio. We really can’t prove which particular bacteria sparked the infection, but in any case, this entire situation has been quite an interesting study. Some of it has been positive, and some of it has been positively hilarious. Hopefully we can all be enlightened from some of it though, so let’s try. Although things are certainly improving, keeping your foot propped up for more than two months can do strange things to a person. By default, when rendered immobile, one tends to “think” more than “do” which is almost always a dangerous proposition. I’ve spent most of my time either sulking at the dock, wearing funny clothes and watching the grass burn up, or throwing rocks at all of 10
September 2009
This has been my season to sit things out.
the trucks and empty boat trailers parked behind our house every day. I’m almost out of rocks, so I really need to get back in the water soon before the projectiles start getting bigger and my aim gets better. In the meantime, please accept this little no-fishing update, plus a few various observations inspired by a left foot, which even after sixty days, still looks like a raw chunk of seasoned fajita meat. One positive aspect about this episode is that it seemed to increase awareness concerning the very real dangers of water borne infections. However, it also served to incite some undue panic among the masses, not to mention promoting some massive sales of protective gear…for those still wanting Texas Saltwater Fishing
to get in the water after they saw the dirty pictures. The phone and email responses have been overwhelming to say the least. Let’s categorize three different types of communication just for observation sake. Perhaps we can get to know our fellow readership a bit better, and in some cases, perhaps we should. In the first category are the cookie people; hundreds of well-intentioned folks offering support with everything from medical bill relief to homemade cookies to homegrown tomatoes. Of serious mention are the gracious people at 2CoolFishing.com, who through a benefit auction, unselfishly helped pass the McBride Stimulus Package which no doubt helped bolster the local medical economy. Trust me, your foot is worth twice what your house is, so I might suggest reviewing your coverage as soon as possible if you recreate aggressively. The reminder here is that people are inherently good, and fishermen, for the most part, are some of the best examples of people willing to give others a tow when needed. We Texas coastal fishermen are of a kindred fraternity, so let’s keep what is going around coming around. The second category of callers is of the more frantically concerned, to which this response will hopefully reach out to a greater extent. Just last night I received yet another panic call from a family, who www.TSFMAG.com
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Carry a big stick… and walk softly!
Sixty days since the fateful daystill have a way yet to go.
the same ones who have clean garages because they borrow all of your tools instead of buying their own. It’s just amazing how adept some humans are at sniffing out opportunity. Perhaps we might use some of that skill to sniff out fish instead. Other quick news is actually about fishing and, again, extended think time can sometimes help put things in perspective. It has been said that every hour spent in reconnaissance is worth ten in battle, so I have been poring over maps and satellite images lately. If you really want to embarrass yourself, put a little dot everywhere you have fished in any given bay. Not a highlighter, just a little dot on exactly the area you have truly covered. If your results are like mine you will see habits emerge, the biggest one being the habit of passing up incredible Texas Saltwater Fishing
amounts of potential water for the same old patterns. I’ll be back in the water, none too soon, and the target is looking like late September. You can bet that after all of this I’ll be looking for some new water even if it will be just one step at a time. You folks who have remained healthy don’t have an excuse, so get out there and discover what you have been missing, carry a big stick, and remember to walk softly.
Mike Mcbride
Contact
with safety in mind, was considering canceling a longtime tradition of going to the island each summer. The June pictures had them convinced that it was simply not safe to go in saltwater ever again, and were recoiling towards red and white bobbers and hill country bream instead. I’ve also heard countless cases to where wives and girlfriends were right on the cusp of accompanying their male partners to the bay, but after seeing the July issue, all progress was lost to cries of “Forget it I am NOT getting in that water, and as a matter of fact…you need to sell that boat immediately!” I’d like to offer some panic relief here. We offered this “incident” to promote awareness not fear. When we look at the numbers this was an extremely rare case, and in all reality, the only change we need to make is giving higher respect to skin breaks while in the water. Making good decisions about exposure in the first place, plus timely decisions about getting medical attention when needed, and the risks become quite acceptable. Just don’t mess around with any flesh turning angry for any reason, especially after getting wet, and we should be OK. My experience should not stop any of us from doing what we love to do, we just need to do it with greater awareness. Between those genuine “get well” wishers and all of the folks truly freaked out over this, there is one more category of responders who we all might marvel over for numerous reasons. I’m not sure of whether to be proud of them for trying to make things happen, or to try and help eliminate them from the gene pool if of child bearing age. The calls/mails go something like this: “Hey man, way sorry you got bunged up like that, but you’re out for a while…right? Would you mind if we used your boat, your slip, your trailer, your rod & reels etc., and dude, if Capt. Tricia isn’t too busy would you mind…?” These guys may qualify for a new standard of potlicking, and are probably
Mike McBride is a full time fishing guide based in Port Mansfield, Tx., specializing in wadefishing with artificial lures.
September 2009
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A Progression, a Theory & a Lesson
This plug was once a “Clown” (gold/chrome/ redhead). The fish have eaten all the chrome so I refurbished with markers, adding a red gill and some dots. I doubt the color mattered at all to this trout.
n summer, I generally assume the fish will be in an aggressive feeding mood at
and generated some theories related to my
no doubt conclude that the reason for this
preference for small plugs this time of year.
has to do with the fact that I was throwing
Though I’m aware of the big lure/big fish
at only small fish on these occasions. But in
daybreak. Consequently, I almost always
theory (meaning in my world that a big
many of these cases, I’ve eventually caught
start off my day throwing a topwater lure,
trout is more likely to be attracted to a big
large trout among the swarming dinks.
usually a junior version. In recent years, I
plug) and I believe in it to some extent,
specifically throw a Super Spook Jr. more
I’ve been able to reliably prove to myself
I
often than not. If and when the blowups don’t come or quit coming, I’ll normally make a switch straight over to soft plastics, sometimes suspending them under corks. I’ve found that such a quick progression (by that I mean ignoring suspending or slow-sinking
Derek Debowski’s lifetime best trout struck a Spook Jr. just as the sun crept onto the horizon.
What I often do when confronted with a white-hot bite on tiny trout is move around over short distances, trying to find areas less crowded with the colorful and aggressive juveniles. When I find a nearby area that’s holding fewer of the marauding dinks, I sometimes find bigger fish. My theory is that the schools of super small fish like to keep a cushion of distance between
twitchbaits) works best for me when the
them and any mature females in the area;
mercury is close to the top of the column.
it’s a matter of self-preservation, given the
Lately, in the crystal clear, frequently
cannibalistic habits of the species.
calm waters I’m often fishing in Baffin Bay
A number of times lately, I’ve watched big
and the Laguna Madre, this progression
trout attempting to eat smaller ones while I
has been regularly effective. The numbers
that small topwaters work better than
was preparing to handle them; in one case,
of small trout caught has been high, of
larger ones this time of year. On numerous
a fish I estimated at no more than twenty
course; that’s part of the deal in summer
occasions, frustrated by a ready gang of
three inches actually tried to take a bite
fishing with artificial lures. The percentage
dinks tackling my Jr. Spook, I’ve tied on a
out of a marginal keeper! Incidentally, this
of keepers has been decent on most days,
larger lure like a Skitterwalk, X Rap, Super
indicates something else to me--that trout
and we’re catching solid numbers of trout
Spook or She Dog and found that the fish
(I’d go so far as to say most, or even all, fish)
between twenty three and twenty nine
will entirely ignore it.
have no understanding of the concept of
inches too. In thinking about this daily plan of action
Upon switching back to the smaller
size. If that’s true, it undermines the big
plug, the blowups begin again, strongly
lure/big fish theory, which is based on the
and the results the plan has been garnering,
suggesting to me that the fish just weren’t
idea that large fish consciously seek out
I’ve come to some important conclusions
interested in the larger offering. Some will
large prey.
14
September 2009
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I’ve read that raising trout in captivity
What I’ve come
can be tricky, partly because they like to
to realize is that
eat each other; specifically, fish of nearly
presentation style rivals
identical size will try to do so. They become
lure choice in importance
stuck to each other mouth-over-tail in
when it comes to making
a deadly daisy chain. If the fish could
fish strike. Many times in
understand size as we do, this wouldn’t
summer, for instance, a
happen. I know I would never attempt to
predictably variable wind
eat a 230 pound pizza!
blows throughout the
Obviously, even in summer, a big trout
day. On most days, dawn
will make a meal out of a large mullet or
arrives accompanied by a
keeper trout, and catching them on bulky
light to moderate west or
plugs is sometimes possible. More of the
southwest wind. Then, in
time, though, the bite on the larger lures is
mid-morning, dead calm
excruciatingly slow.
slowly casts a smooth
All of this leads me to the following
Gilbert Medrano had limited experience with topwaters, but he quickly picked up the technique with the Spook Jr.
blanket over the bay. Later, a moderate east
ways to catch the fish is with a small floating
conclusion and/or theory. Trout are easiest
or southeast breeze ushers in the heat of the
plug, especially if that plug is used skillfully.
to catch on lures which resemble the prey
day and roughs up the water‘s surface.
they‘ve been recently eating. In summer,
Those who fail to adjust their presentation
Some trophy seekers look at little topwaters and think they won’t attract the
when numerous small forage species like
with the changing winds might wrongly
attention of big trout. To them, I suggest
glass minnows, shad, piggy perch and finger
conclude that the fish don’t want topwaters
perusing the pictures documenting all the
mullet are swimming around with the trout,
and switch to other offerings. Consistently,
giant specks that have been caught over the
smaller plugs match the menu most closely.
in the gentle breezes associated with
last decade on Corkys, which are virtually
Conversely, in winter, when trout are
daybreak, a generic, steady dog-walking
identical in size to the junior versions of
surrounded mostly by mature mullet and
movement pattern will generate plenty of
most topwaters. As my old friend Jay Wright
other trout, bigger plugs better imitate
strikes, but when the wind calms, slowing
reminded me after he caught an eleven
what’s for dinner. Additionally, chilled
things to a crawl, barely nudging the head
pound trout on a fly in Florida, “Remember,
water slows down a cold-blooded creature’s
of the lure from side to side, often entices
even elephants eat peanuts!”
metabolism, so fish in winter eat less
more strikes. When the breeze kicks up
frequently. But when they are eating, they
again, a fast, raspy, erratic retrieve usually
tend to do so with a ravenous and reckless
keeps the fish interested enough to open
attitude. In winter, on full-sized topwaters,
their mouths and take a bite. Three distinctly different presentation
of other trout or horse mullet protruding
styles might therefore be needed within
from their gullets.
a span of a few short hours. It’s easy to
In summer, though, a non-stop snacking
misunderstand how effective topwaters
mode seems to be prevalent in the trout,
can be in summer when using large plugs
and they eat more frequently. On many
and making monotonously repetitive
days in the searing heat, I’m able to maintain
presentations. People who use full-sized
a steady bite throughout the fishing day.
plugs and work those plugs steadily
This happens in other seasons too, but not
without adjusting speed and rhythm aren’t
as commonly as in summer for me.
likely to catch as many trout this time of
Much of the time, this all-day bite is
year as those who use junior plugs more
experienced through the exclusive use of
creatively to keep their presentations in
my Jr. Spook. I know many experts claim
sync with the conditions.
that topwaters are more of a specialty
The bottom line for me is this--the best
offering than a staple when trout fishing. I
way to catch a big trout on a lure in the
tend to disagree, especially in hot weather,
summer is to maintain contact with the
though I admit that stubbornly refusing to
schools of dinks and work the fringes of the
take one off can be a sign of tunnel vision.
schools. One of the most fun and effective
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I’ve caught lots of large trout with the tails
Kevin Cochran
Texas Saltwater Fishing
September 2009
15
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16’ - 22’ in Stock
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September 2009
Most YAMAHA Models in Stock
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Heroes of
Conservation and more have been nominated for Field & Stream magazine’s prestigious Heroes of
I
Conservation award and further honored as one of six finalists. On July 23 a film crew joined me on PINS and the video should be running on their web site at www. fieldandstream.com/heroes by the time you read this article. They are flying me to Washington, D.C. on October 21 to participate in their Heroes of Conservation Gala. Many who know me well are probably getting a good chuckle as visiting large cities and travel in general have never been my thing. However, there are potential rewards in this, such as a new Toyota Tundra truck if chosen as Hero of the Year, which justifies going. Further justification is that hundreds of thousands John Valkenaar will be made aware of of Austin with a nice ongoing and worthwhile speckled conservation projects trout on and my greatest hope is PINS – CPR! to inspire others to start projects of their own. The primary message I have always hoped to convey is this; “One person can make a difference.” I do not do the things I do for awards, recognition, or personal gain. I never look around to make sure I have an audience. I do things because they need to be done and very often because no one else is willing to do them. Many times nobody, not even my wife, is aware of them. Issues arising from management policies and decisions at PINS have been rankling park visitors for some time. A professional mediating firm has been contracted by regional NPS managers to work with the visitor group and local PINS management. 18
September 2009
Capt. Billy with a 30-pound wahoo, nearshore panga trip.
Hopefully they’ll come up with solutions acceptable to all. Talk of boycotting future beach cleanups has been circulating and I’ve been asked if I intend to continue the Big Shell Beach Cleanup. I want to make this perfectly clear right now; there will be a Cleanup in March 2010. We do the Big Shell Cleanup for the beach not for the NPS. However, we greatly appreciated their participation this year and hope they will continue. We clean the beach as a show of respect and reverence for this wonderful place we cherish and nothing could ever change that. Folks who choose to boycott certainly have the right to do so but I think they are overlooking why we do it in the first place. The Sea Turtle Recovery Program recorded 196 Kemp’s Ridley nests this year, besting last year’s record 190 nests. David Newstead and I found the first green turtle nest in Texas on July 25 and it contained 137 eggs. Turtle patrols were concluded on July 15 which marks the end of the Kemp’s Ridley nesting season. Most of the green and loggerhead nests are found during late July through August. I featured the red knot in our monthly birding column a few issues ago. There will be a study of the area’s red knot shorebird population going on down island September 30 through October 6. The effort will include cannon netting and banding. Little is known about the Texas migrational population of this species which is in extremely steep decline on the east coast. Texas Saltwater Fishing
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clean the beach as “ We a show of respect
“
other than the possibility of having to drive higher on the beach for a short distance to avoid spooking birds if they are preparing to fire a net. I will be taking part in these studies on days I’m not chartered. A teenage girl was nipped by a shark on South Padre in late July but as only seventeen stitches were required it must have been a small shark. Stingrays are another matter with reports of large numbers being seen everywhere and it seems every few days I hear of someone else being hit. Last time I visited with Mike McBride he told me his son, Brandon, had been hit the day before. It’s my time of year; the time when no other place produces like the surf. September through early December is the time of harvest, the time of the frenzies, when the surf boils with a wide variety of gamefish species pounding shoals of dusky and bay anchovies and finger mullet. Tens of thousands of diving terns, gulls and pelicans fill the skies. Some mornings, before the first cold fronts trigger the migrations to Central and South America; you can see a black mass far ahead on the shoreline that can be mistaken for smoke. This is high adrenalin fishing and the rulebook is thrown out the window concerning what species may be encountered. Any who have ever been blessed to be down island when all the pieces comes together will never forget the experience. Fishing in the middle of the frenzy requires the angler to remain keenly observant and use good judgment for many medium to very large sharks are right in Just Keep Five
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there with everything else. I once waded a neck-deep gut to reach the outside bar to cast for tarpon and walked right up on a twelve foot tiger shark in the white water of the bar with his dorsal, part of his back, and his tail exposed. I’ve also turned to retreat from the offshore bar only to discover four adult bull sharks, between me and the beach, moving slowly and ready to attack. Don’t let it be you. Throwing large artificials at tarpon can be frustrating as the sharks will hit them as readily as they will bait and it’s the perfect opportunity to sightcast sharks. Large numbers of skipjack are often found in the frenzies and if you use anything less than 30 or 40 pound mono the skipjacks will become gilled in your line and cut you off or fray the line so badly it will part when a tarpon is hooked. Best thing to do is sightcast the tarpon and try to avoid areas writhing with skipjacks. Let’s see, they want me to wear a business suit in Washington. Straw hat, fishing shirt and shorts, wading belt with knife, pliers, Boga Grip and stingray boots are my regular business suit so I should do just fine. What a hoot! If we don’t leave any; there won’t be any. -Capt. Billy L. Sandifer
Capt. Billy Sandifer
Contact
Much can be gained from evaluating the population passing through our area. The majority of the east coast birds have been banded yet the ones we see on PINS are not. Only two of thousands seen here were banded so there’s lots to learn that may help keep this species from disappearing. These shorebirds tend to be found in greatest number between the 16-19 mile areas of PINS. Traffic probably won’t be effected
Billy Sandifer operates Padre Island Safaris offering surf fishing for sharks to specks and nature tours of the Padre Island National Seashore. Billy also offers bay and near-shore fishing adventures in his 25 foot Panga for many big game and gamefish species. Telephone 361-937-8446 Website www.billysandifer.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
Billy Sandifer’s
Coastal Birding
Piping Plover Length: 7.25 inches Wingspan: 19 inches Weight: 1.9 oz.
Very pale above; the color of dry sand. Orange legs and bill in breeding plumage with a black tip on the bill. Complete or incomplete dark ring around the neck and black on forehead in breeding plumage. In winter, legs and bill are dark and the ring around the neck and black on forehead disappear. Conspicuous white rump in flight. Present here August through November and again March through May. Breeds in northeast and north-central U.S. and Southern Canada. Frequents Gulf of Mexico beaches and bay mud flats. The piping plover is uncommon and declining. September 2009
19
F RWA T O ER M F $ 2RO 49 NT K
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Artist renderings and plans for The Reserve at St. Charles Bay are under development. Hal Jones Development reserves the right to make changes without notice. No guarantee is made that the proposed features will be constructed, or that if constructed, will be of the number and type described. These materials shall not constitute an offer in any state where prior registration is required. Void where prohibited by law. For unimproved lots at The Reserve at St. Charles Bay, obtain the property report required by federal law and read it before signing anything. No federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of these properties. WARNING: THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF REAL ESTATE HAS NOT INSPECTED, EXAMINED, OR QUALIFIED THIS OFFERING.
*WAC. Visit www.StCharlesBay.com for details.
SCB_SWF042909.indd 1
20
September 2009
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
5/1/09 10:06:14 AM
Just Keep Five
Just Keep Five
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Texas Saltwater Fishing
September 2009
21
E I D BO B
odie jerked the throttle back as soon as he
saw the partially submerged float but the
AND THE NET TERS
and ears for us while you’re out here on the bays,” the warden said. That night at Haddon’s Place, Bodie let
notice of the fact. Later over dinner and a cold beer, Bodie told Tommy to go home and pack a lunch
forward progress of his boat pushed him
it be known that he had found a gill net
and some clothes because the two of them
past and he felt his lower unit hang up.
near the entrance to Crab Bayou. Someone
were going to do a little late night exploring.
“Netters!” Bodie said out aloud to himself.
asked what he had done with it and Bodie
“I don’t feel much like doing any
He untangled the hated mesh and
said he had turned the net over to Warden
floundering tonight Bodie. My leg hurts, and
started pulling the net to see how far
Wigginton. Tommy Meyers chimed in that
besides, I’m pretty sure my lantern is busted
it stretched and what was in it. Drum, a
the game wardens always hold the nets for
and my gig is rusted so I guess that leaves
few flounder, a bunch of redfish and a
evidence and then burn them; and that was
me out,” Tommy squeaked while guessing
lot of trout, some horse mullet and a few
a good thing. There were a couple of dirty
what Bodie was planning.
hardheads hung dead-stiff in the deadly
looks cast their direction and Bodie took
“We’re not going floundering Tommy,
monofilament webbing. Bodie started walking the net to see where it terminated and some 200 yards later he came to the stake that held it in place. Unfolding his pocketknife he cut the rope and began dragging the net toward shore. He couldn’t do anything for the fish and, since they appeared to have been in the net for quite a while, they weren’t edible. The wasteful sight made him spit in anger. “Some outlaw set this net and never returned to run it,” Bodie hissed to himself. When he had all the net on the shore he went back to his boat and called the local game warden on his cell phone. He told the warden, who happened to be a friend, what he had found and where it was located. The warden asked him to stay there and wait for him. Warden Wigginton arrived at Bodie’s location about 45 minutes later and made some photographs before he and Bodie rolled it up and loaded it into the warden’s boat. “This is the third net that has been reported this month, Bodie. They’re getting braver and they must be making money. They don’t even seem to care if they lose their nets. We do what we can but we’re spread pretty thin, you know. We could sure use you local fishermen to be our eyes 22
September 2009
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
we’re going hunting. Meet me at the
Bodie switched the engine off and raised
boat lift around ten,” Bodie replied to his
the motor a little on the jack plate. In a few
squeamish friend.
seconds they felt the bow of the V-hull
“Hunting? What are we going to be hunting Bodie? It’s not deer or duck season and I know your crews at the Lazy C keep
nudge hard sand and Bodie set the StakeOut Stick. After thirty minutes of just sitting,
the coyote population in check. So what
looking and listening, Tommy commented
are we going to be hunting, huh Bodie?”
that he needed a snack and a drink and
Tommy stammered.
stood to open the cooler he was sitting on.
“Illegal netters,” Bodie replied.
Bodie turned to tell his friend to grab him
The night was dark with no moon and it
something as well when he caught a faint
was dead calm. It seemed the cables and pulleys made more noise than usual as they
“Tommy I think I just caught the flicker of a light off to the right there, have you seen
that still.
anything over that way?” Bodie asked. “Nope, nothing but a firefly now and
this noise, Bodie, and they’ll know we’re
then is all I’ve seen Bodie, no spotlights or
coming so maybe we should just stay home
nothing like that.” Tommy said.
tonight. What do you think, buddy?” Tommy whimpered.
Bodie stared down at his friend and said “Tommy, use your head boy. There ain’t any
“Unless you told someone what we’re
dadgum fireflies this time of year.”
doing Tommy then no one is going to know
Bodie scanned the area carefully with
what we’re about, we could be floundering
his binoculars when suddenly it appeared
or going for a night wade. Stop worrying
again. Just a faint glimmer of light is all, but
about it.” Bodie said.
what he saw left little doubt. Way too weak
Bodie idled into the channel while setting
figured what he was seeing was a cap light,
would be a good one to sit watch and listen.
the tiny ones fishermen use, probably to
Jumping the boat on plane he handed
give just enough light to work close and
Tommy the Q-Beam to light the way.
not enough to be seen from a distance. The
“If we use a Q-Beam they’ll see us and
person using it was moving far too much
know we’re out here Bodie, we can’t use a
to be in a boat and that meant they were
light and that means running lights too!”
probably in the water.
Tommy cried.
…Join us next issue for the conclusion
“Now look here Tommy Boy, if we’re
is out and about and probably snooping. As still as it is they’ll hear the outboard for miles. We might as well make like a couple of guys heading out to do some night fishing,” Bodie fired back with authority.
Martin Strarup
Contact
they’ll sure as heck know that somebody
Running just fast enough to hold the boat on plane, Bodie steered through several cuts and then across the open bay. Tommy laid the light dutifully on every crab trap float, piling and such, while Bodie steered carefully clear of each. After a twenty minute run, Bodie told Tommy to
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for a lantern or normal flashlight, Bodie
the GPS to take them to a spot he thought
running around out here with no lights
You can now find our products in
glimmer of light just off the starboard bow.
lowered Bodie’s boat into the water; it was “Every netter in the world will hear all
The Soft Plastic Specialists
Texas Saltwater Fishing
September 2009
23
Do you speak the
language or the past ten years my family and I have made at least one trip each year down
at conveying enthusiasm and the message is
in Playa Del Carmen for a wedding. While
not lost on one’s ability to speak a language.
in Playa I made arrangements to fish north
to the Yucatan, specifically to the island
by the name of Fierros and he is truly a
Packmore at The Traveling Angler. My
of Cozumel. We have some very close
fisherman. We met on one of my first trips to
son, Hunter, and I were met by our guide,
friends down there and I know it sounds
Cozumel and we immediately hit it off as a
Enrique Trinidad, in Cancun following a forty
goofy but we actually feel like locals. Our
discussion about fishing came up in the dive
minute taxi ride from Playa Del Carmen.
friends have a dive shop and hotel which is
shop. Through a little translation we wound
Enrique then took us to the small marina he
perfect because it’s small and intimate, very
up fishing every morning for the next five
calls home base.
different from the all-inclusive venues that
days. We had a blast even though we really
F
My best fishing buddy on the island goes
of Cancun at Isla Blanca, thanks to Andy
Seven panga skiffs were tied at the dock
Enrique Trinidad navigates thick mangroves in search of Isla Blanca tarpon.
process guests like herds of cattle. Over the years I have become really
Carefully releasing a bonefish to fight another day.
couldn’t do a whole lot of talking, we knew
with Enrique’s being the nicest by far. After a
what was happening and it was good. It was
short boat ride across some beautiful water
close to a few of the dive boat captains and
really cool to watch as Fierros fished with a
we settled on the back side of a small island
we fish together at least a few times each
hand line outfitted with what appeared to be
and were immediately greeted by snook
trip. My wife, Leslie, is constantly amazed,
an old decoy weight and 3 hooks on separate
crashing in mangroves. Like most folks, I
“What do you guys talk about, how do you
drops. I, on the other hand, was outfitted
wanted instantly to head up to the skinny
communicate?” Her reference being made
with a high-end travel rod, 12-pound test,
stuff and find the culprit but Enrique had
to the fact that I speak just enough Spanish
and top of the line baitcaster. We made quite
other ideas.
to get in trouble and the captains are the
a pair. This year Fierros was unable to fish
same with English. I always tell her we speak
with me so I got the next best thing, Fierros
from his perch on the poling platform
the language of fishing and its universal if
Jr.! That’s right, I got to fish with his son and
pointing out the approaching school.
you really love the sport. For example if you
it was just as good as we enjoyed two really
ask someone, “How was your day on the
nice days on the water taking a variety of fish.
my arm and make me chase permit” I said to
This year our trip was a little different in
Hunter as we both were fired up to get shots
water?” You can tell almost immediately just
“Permit at two o’clock,” Enrique advised
“Okay, if I can’t chase snook you can twist
by their eyes and their facial expressions how
that we went across to the mainland after
at these magnificent fish. Several schools
good it was. Fishermen are the worlds best
four days on Cozumel and spent four days
emerged along this particular flat and with
24
September 2009
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
only one hookup we decided to try the next location.
getting better as the day wore on. Now if it was up to me I would still be
The small panga glided to a stop as we
there chasing whatever fish was closest but
drifted into a small canal lined with lush
unfortunately we had to start working our way
mangroves. I stood on the front deck in awe
back to the dock. On the trip back we stopped
of the whole scene and just happy to be in a
on a huge flat that was dotted with little mud
place like this as we scanned the water for life.
boils that signified feeding bonefish and we
“Tarpon ahead” was the call from Enrique
decided we had enough time to investigate.
as we watched several fish come up, gulp
Sure enough we encountered several schools
air and give away their position. A quick cast
of hungry bonefish that really knew how to
with a small jig provided an instant hookup
stretch your line. No really big bonefish ever
and a juvenile tarpon went airborne in a
showed but there were certainly plenty. This
series of acrobatic jumps that eventually
last spot topped it off for Hunter and I as we
freed him from my lure. This drill continued
talked about how we had a legitimate chance
for a couple of hours as we jumped at least
during the day at a Grand Slam in one trip; that
a dozen more fish and saw countless others.
being tarpon, bonefish, snook, and permit. Isla
The path through the mangrove canals was
Blanca was an absolutely amazing experience
possibly one of the coolest things I have
and one that I will not soon forget.
done and greatly added to the adventure. We Hungry bonefish are plentiful along the Yucatan flats.
The language barrier that exists between some people can easily be overcome with a bit of patience and willingness to learn. Knowing that places like Isla Blanca are out there to be enjoyed should be enough to encourage the adventurous fisherman to make the effort and see just what the experience is like. Despite the complete understanding of all the words, we have a lot more in common than anyone would know.
had to lay down on the deck several times and actually pull the boat through the trees using the overhanging limbs. The thick cover
Contact
Chuck Uzzle
would eventually open up to expose another series of canals or small lagoons and the chase would continue. One of the larger lagoons we entered was dotted with white sand potholes and deep grass; it was much different than anything I had fished on the Yucatan. The potholes would hold nice snook and several species of snapper that just couldn’t resist a Gulp shrimp. Every now and again we would venture away from the potholes and back to the mangroves for yet another shot at tarpon and it just kept Just Keep Five
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Texas Saltwater Fishing
September 2009
25
Science and the Sea
TM
Diving for their Dinners Imagine that you were hungry for a meal, and there were plenty of tasty morsels around you… but you had to dive into chilly waters to get them. That’s a feat cormorants perform every time they dine. Cormorants are sleek seabirds found in coastal habitats in most parts of the world. They hunt for fish and other small animals by propelling themselves underwater with their webbed feet and catching their prey using their long, flexible necks and hooked beaks. There are about 37 kinds of cormorants and they vary in how long and deep they can dive. One species can stay underwater for 5 minutes and reach depths of more than 200 feet. Cormorants are superbly designed for diving. They have a low proportion of body fat and their bones are denser than those of other birds, which helps them sink. Unlike most other diving birds, cormorants have “partially wettable” feathers, which means their feathers trap less insulating air. This means cormorants lose more body heat while diving, but it gives them the advantage of reduced buoyancy in the water. Cormorants are believed to hunt their prey by sight, but scientists observing great cormorants in western Greenland found that the birds hunted even in the dark polar nights. The researchers suspect the birds might use sound or touch to nab their prey in the dark, trolling the seabed with their beaks. If that’s true, it would be one more ability that makes the cormorant a consummate diver.
The University of Texas
Marine Science Institute www.ScienceAndTheSea.org © The University of Texas Marine Science Institute 26
September 2009
Texas Saltwater Fishing
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Just Keep Five
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Texas Saltwater Fishing
September 2009
27
ask the pro I have found that life is made up of many small moments.
Ryan’s five pound brush pile bass.
Some are life-changers.
jay watk ins
Some for the good, some for the not-so-good. In fishing we need always be prepared for these moments as opportunity rarely knocks twice. I have always believed that we make our own luck. Back when I was graduating high school my father gave me this piece of advice, “Control everything you can and don’t worry about the rest.” Hopefully the contents of this article will help you be more prepared for your next moment. I found out soon enough that life would deal cards I didn’t like, but I’d still be stuck with the dealer. I took that attitude with me as I entered the fishing business and coined
Too often, anglers worry themselves over the wrong stuff. Here’s a short list of some things you can control:
By doing the same thing every time on every fish you stand a much better chance of landing that fish of a lifetime. By using a fish smart
the term “Fish Smart” as sort of my slogan. By
• Set the hook the same way and fight
approach to each and every trip, one is prepared
fishing smart we control every thing we can
every fish the same no matter the size. Not
for that one moment during the day when a fish
and deal with the rest as it comes.
many anglers can tell the difference between
of a lifetime comes knocking. A prime example
the bite of a 16-inch trout and that of a five
of this was a wonderful experience that occurred
the way to our first stop he asked, “If you could
pounder. Truth is; a five pound fish might not
not too many weeks ago. As many of you know
tell me one thing that would make me a better
take the bait as hard as a small one.
both of my boys are avid fishermen, darn good
I had a guy show up one day to fish and on
fisherman, right now before you have even seen me at work, what would it be?” I turned directly to his rod and spit out something along these lines. “Your line is too heavy and so is the jighead. No snap swivel,
• When your fish gets her head up, lower
ones too. Jay Ray makes his living fishing and
your rod to get her head back down. She goes
Ryan, the younger, is a senior at Stephen F.
down; you bring the rod up to gain control of
Austin University. Ryan is the bass fisherman
the fight.
in the family and has done exceptionally well
• When a big fish is left with little or no
ever. Downsize the hook, rig your plastic
pressure on her head she will rest, waiting for
straight and upside down. Your rod is too stiff
that one fateful moment during which she
considering his prior experience was limited to the small lake in our backyard. Ryan’s good fish-finding and catching
and too long. Always set your drag to at least
habits have played a major role in his ability
slow the fish before he spools you and, for
to quickly learn and understand seasonal
God’s sake, put more than thirty yards of line
patterns on the lakes of East Texas. “Structure
on your reel!” I think those nine or ten things
is structure; some is just a whole lot deeper
would have definitely made his day more
than what we are accustomed to fishing,” he
productive and we had not even evaluated
once told me.
the rest of his game.
On a recent weekend trip that my wife
The day progressed with many questions.
Renee set up for me, Ryan and I were witness
“Where we headed?”
to the importance of fishing smart and always
“I let the fish show me from day to day. I
reacting the same way to bites.
stop where the signs meet the conditions.” This went on and on and that is a good thing, he wanted to learn and was willing to be taught. Wade after wade I instructed on the importance of fishing smart and only worrying about the things we could control. 28
might be able to ruin your day.
September 2009
Jay with 9-1/2 pound brush pile chunk. Good habits pay big dividends. Texas Saltwater Fishing
It was 101 degrees when we finally moved to a deep brush pile Ryan found last year. We had encountered trolling motor difficulties and were in the process of easing within casting distance. The tackle was heavy worm rods with Texas-rigged Zoom worms, www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
Seaguar Invizx fluorocarbon. After only a few casts Ryan had a five pound fish in hand. Photos and hand slapping followed; dad is always proud to snap photos of the boys with nice fish.
rolling the rod tip downward as I turned her. Ryan looked on in excitement. ” I think she’s a 10 pounder, bring her to me when she’s ready.” With a youthful grab my bass of a lifetime was locked in my son’s hand. What a glorious
forged between us. At the Tyler airport Ryan stopped short of the security check. “I am horrible at goodbyes so I’ll stop here,” he said. I suck at them too, so I was good with it. I
Ryan’s next four casts brought four solid bass.
moment. My son, the one I taught, the one I led
hadn’t gone many steps down the corridor
Dad was having some trouble getting the distance
to his first big trout and redfish, the one whose
when I heard him call out. ”We sure had
and the feel down but it finally came together.
hero I was, had now become mine. I know it
ourselves a moment, didn’t we dad?”
As my next cast hit the water Ryan said,
sounds sappy but it’s a big moment for a dad
Life is made up of moments. By being
“That’s a fish if you let it go all the way to the
when he sees his passion being relived in a son
prepared we make the most of them, both on
bottom and then lift slightly. Don’t jig it, just lift
or daughter.
the water and in our personal lives.
and let it fall. A heavy line is a fish, load the rod and get after her.”
The fish weighed 9½ pounds on our digital
jay watk ins
Tungsten 1/8-oz bullet weights and 17lb
May Your Fishing Always Be Catching
returned the grand fish to the lake. After a few
Instinct said, crank down quickly to load the rod
moments and some vitamin water, I stood and
and stick the fish. In less than a second I felt the
cast back to the submerged brush pile. Once
headshake of a large fish. Ryan watched as the
again on the second or third lift I was rewarded
line rose toward the surface and we both went
with a large bass, this one weighed 7½ pounds,
nuts as a huge ball of whitewater erupted. The
a bit less but still a thrill. We released thirty-two
fish wanted her head up and wanted to shake;
fish in about two hours as a crowd of boats and
this is never good. I stuck the rod down in the
onlookers sat close by. Bass fishermen seem to
water and cranked her back down. Three or four
respect the findings of others and are content
times the fish tried to surface but each time I was
to watch. Maybe they too realized that it was a
able to keep her down. I never backed off the
special moment for us. At day’s end I think we
drag, I knew better. She pulled left; I pulled right,
both sensed something very special had been
Contact
scale. We made a quick photograph and
About two lifts into the cast the rod felt heavy.
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Texas Saltwater Fishing
September 2009
29
When I first started tying flies, I put very little
needle point). A typical 50-count box of
thought into the anatomy of
the press sideways, but I still tie most of
the hooks I used. I grabbed
my fly patterns on this hook and I like its
whatever I could find, and as long as the hook
simple no-frills design. The 34007 is easy
had a point and fit in my vise I was happy.
to re-sharpen and has a reliability I have
But I quickly learned how important the
come to trust. Although I have bent a few
right hook was on a saltwater fly. It had to
of them up on rocks and big fish over the
be resistant to corrosion, sharp, reliable, and of adequate shape and size to compliment
hooks that look like they went through
Gamakatsu SL45 Bonefish The Gamakatsu SL45 Bonefish hook is a
years, I have never had a 34007 rust, break, or otherwise let me down. The 34007 is
the materials and action of the fly. I also
strong, thin-wired hook with a standard-
available in sizes 8 to 2/0 and a 50-count
learned that regardless of their quality all
sized shank and gape, and an incredibly
pack costs around $10.00
hooks require sharpening sooner or later, and
sharp hook point oriented parallel to the
knowing how to correctly sharpen a hook is
shank. The SL45 has a slick black finish and
a fundamental angling skill. Over the years
unlike many other saltwater hooks the wire
I have used many different hooks but I keep
is actually plated high carbon steel rather
version of the 34007. Like the 34007, the
coming back to a few that have become my
than stainless. This means the SL45 is very
34011 is stainless, economically priced, and
favorites. Here are a few of those hooks and
stiff and strong in relation to its weight. The
yes… it requires sharpening. The 34011
why I like them.
SL45 was designed specifically for bonefish,
hook is a good choice for bendbacks, long
which demand a small and light but very
streamers, big shrimp patterns, Crease
strong hook. But it’s also a great hook for
Flies, pencil poppers, and Gurglers. Fly
fly patterns used on the Texas flats. The
tyers who stock up on the 34011 along
stainless steel hook with a short shank,
black SL45 blends nicely with dark-colored
with the 34007 are essentially outfitted to
large gap, and slightly upturned point.
wing materials and has become my hands-
tie nearly any inshore saltwater fly pattern.
One look at the 800S and you know
down favorite hook for black drum flies. The
The 34011 hook is available in sizes 6 to 3/0
it means business. The 800S is a high
SL45 hook is available in sizes 4 to 8 and a
and a 50-count pack costs around $14.00.
quality and heavy duty hook (needle
12-count pack costs around $3.50.
Tiemco 800S The Tiemco 800S is a heavy wire
sharp out of the box) with a large barb and the strength to subdue the strongest inshore fish you can find. It has a large
Mustad 34007 The Mustad 34007 is a standard-sized
Mustad 34011 The Mustad 34011 is the long-shank
Remember to put some thought into the hooks you choose for saltwater fly tying. Don’t skimp. Selecting the right hook is crucial to getting solid,
eye that will accommodate oversized
stainless steel hook. It is one of the most
consistent hook-ups and good hooks are
bite tippets with ease. The 800S is a
widely available and commonly selected
fundamental in achieving the right action,
good choice for large streamers, sinking
hooks for inshore saltwater flies. There
longevity, and overall success of any fly
patterns, sliders, or flies with designs that
are two reasons for this- performance and
pattern you tie.
require a “keel” effect from the hook.
price. Although the 34007 is relatively
When tying flies on the 800S, anglers
inexpensive, it does many things well. It is
should remember that although the heavy
an ideal hook for most redfish flies, short
wire and solid stature of this hook make it
poppers, and Clouser Minnows. And, the
seriously tough, they also make it heavy.
34007 can be safely bent and shaped with
The 800S lands with a moderate thud
pliers, turning it into a suitable hook for
and therefore is a poor choice for flies
spoonfly patterns. The only weak features
requiring delicate or soft presentations to
of the 34007 are its crude barb and fairly
spooky fish. The 800S is available in sizes
dull point which always requires an initial
O
VIDE 30
34007 hooks usually contains 1 or 2 shag
2 to 8 and a 25-count pack costs
sharpening (except for the “Z Signature
around $12.00.
Series” version which has a small barb and
Contact
c ase y smar tt
The Right Hook
Casey Smartt has been fly fishing and tying flies for 30 years. When he cannot make it to the coast he is happy chasing fish on Texas inland lakes and rivers.
Check out Casey’s Fly Fishing Video Library at www.TSFMag.com
September 2009
Texas Saltwater Fishing
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bluewater journal
Bo bby byr d & Cap t. j ph n coch r an e
Navigation Basics in a High Tech World How do you navigate when your GPS fails We hope everyone is enjoying the summer fishing season and catching lots of
your boat is a compass. Make sure it is a
yourself to learn. It’s also very interesting and
good one and take the time to check it for
you will have a lot better concept of just how
accuracy. Learn how to convert from a true
much information a GPS provides for you. It’s
fish! Besides fishing reports, we have
heading to a magnetic heading. The United
really quite amazing considering many of us
heard a few other stories this year that
States Power Squadron and local captain’s
can remember when it didn’t exist.
have prompted us to address the issue of
schools are a great place to learn basic
navigating without GPS or Loran when
navigational skills. If you don’t know how
and check it against your GPS information.
offshore. Most anglers rely heavily on their
to navigate without a GPS, you owe it to
Remember to write down the heading
GPS plotters to get them from point A to
You should always use your compass
Your compass is one of the most important pieces of equipment on your boat; notice its front and center location at the helm of this sportfisher.
point B when running offshore, but what do you do when you are well offshore and your electronics fail? Some of the older captains and fishermen who remember the days of Loran A or C and navigating with paper charts by dead reckoning will not be fazed by such an event, maybe just a little inconvenienced. However, because of these new user-friendly navigation units, many fishermen haven’t taken the time to learn basic navigational skills. They have become so dependant on their GPS plotters with moving maps, that they aren’t prepared for this scenario and haven’t prepared themselves to handle this situation. Loss of electronic navigation can be caused by several things. Equipment malfunction is a common problem; so many boats have a back-up GPS unit, which is an excellent idea. However, sometimes a failure can be caused by the loss of the vessel’s electrical system affecting all electronics on board. A direct or nearby lightning strike, salt and corrosion, rough seas and water damage can also cause loss of electronic equipment. A handheld back-up GPS is a great remedy, but what do you do when you find yourself in a situation without any electronics working? It’s important to remember one of the most important pieces of equipment on
32
September 2009
Texas Saltwater Fishing
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working radar, navigation without GPS gets
more knowledgeable boater and fisherman.
laminated chart for a back-up. At the very
even easier. Oil rigs detected by radar can
For more information on learning about
minimum, learn how to read a chart and use
be matched to rigs found on your chart. Sea
navigation, big game fishing or rigging
the compass rose. You should also know how
buoys and jetties marking the entrance to
your boat, call us or come by Tops-N-Towers
to find your position by latitude/longitude
major ports also show up well on radar.
in Seabrook, Texas. Our Fox Yacht Sales-
One other factor is navigating at night
Seabrook office has an extensive inventory
are at all times, so if you have a failure you
without GPS. It’s really not that difficult and
of brokerage boats and Fox is the exclusive
know about where you are and the general
in some ways easier. If you know major stars
Texas dealer for CABO Yachts.
direction of your home port. If you are not
and constellations they can help verify your
sure of your position, you can call a nearby
compass heading. Navigational lights, oil
boat or if you can see a rig, you can get
rigs and lighted buoys are marked on charts
the block number off of it and locate your
and can be seen many miles away. Also,
approximate position from a block chart. If
the glow on the horizon from the lights of
you know where you are, then you can keep
major communities can help you verify your
fishing and not be too concerned about the
position. Finally the age old lighthouse,
electronics loss. When you are ready to head
seldom used or even operational anymore
home, give yourself extra time to get in.
has always helped mariners find heir way
Use a paper chart to get the bearing off the
home when getting close to shore. The next
compass rose and start in. Make a note of the
time you head offshore and see the old
time you left and the speed you are going,
lighthouse standing there, remember the
so you can calculate your position. You can
thousands of mariners it guided safely home
double check your position by monitoring
and you will appreciate that little high tech
your depth on the sounder, if it is still working.
machine in front of you a whole lot more.
You can follow depth contours off of a chart
Taking the time to understand
to navigate certain areas. Also, if you have a
navigation basics will help you be a safer
Contact
and plot a course. Keep track of where you
o ffsh o r e
you ran out on. Always carry a paper or
Born in Galveston, Capt. John Cochrane has been a professional captain for over 25 years. He concentrates his fishing efforts in the Gulf of Mexico, promoting big game fishing and billfish research. A native Texan, Bobby Byrd has fished the Gulf of Mexico since he was eight. In 1995, Bobby combined his love of fishing and boating into a business when he opened Tops-N-Towers in Seabrook, Texas. Contact Fox Yacht Sales / Seabrook 281-291-0656 Tops-N-Towers 281-474-4000 Capt. John Cochrane 409-739-4817 Websites www.byrd-cochrane.com www.topsntowers.com www.foxyachtsales.com
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STABILIZATION
Texas Saltwater Fishing
TECHNOLOGY September 2009
33
conservation page
Texas Outdoor Writers Recognize CCA/Valero Youth Program CCA Program sponsored by Valero Energy Corp. seeks to bring marine conservation to kids The Texas Outdoor Writers Association (TOWA) selected the
that they can make a difference. With the
CCA/Valero Rising Tide youth program
plan, we are able to bring the message of
parts of this program. From the start,
as the winner of its Special Projects/
marine conservation and education to a
the goal has been to build on the fact
Conservation award at its 2009 annual
broad group of children everywhere, from
that kids are capable of doing amazing
convention. At a time when far more kids
inland locations to coastal communities.”
things right now and develop programs
are texting than casting, the recognition
CCA and Valero Energy Corp. partnered
creating solutions to solve them. “We have received great input on all
that tap into that potential,” said Murray.
by Texas outdoor writers emphasizes
in 2007 to promote conservation education
“Making students and others aware of
just how critical the need is to get
and ethics in young anglers through the
the conservation challenges that face our
students more involved in protecting
Rising Tide program. Valero’s generous
bays and oceans and helping them be
the marine environment. CCA and Valero
support allowed CCA to devote more
part of the solution lays the foundation
Energy Corp. combined efforts to create
resources to the youth program than ever
for a lifetime of conservation. We have
this multi-media youth outreach and
before, with particular attention given
to make sure that today’s youth embrace
education program.
to the development of a conservation
the value of our shared coastal marine
newsletter, youth webpage and marine
resources. Fortunately, we have a partner
this incredibly important program,” said
conservation lesson plan that has been
in Valero that is committed to this effort
Pat Murray, CCA executive vice president.
made available to junior high school
as well.”
“We are honored that TOWA recognized
34
newsletter, website and conservation lesson
“We must do everything we can to get the
teachers, summer camps and home school
For more information about the Rising
next generation ready to assume its role as
programs. Through the lesson plan, students
Tide program or a free copy of the Rising
stewards of our coastal marine resources.
are tasked with identifying conservation
Tide newsletter or lesson plan, educators
This program was created to help empower
problems in the marine environment,
are encouraged to contact Pat Murray at
young conservationists and show them
researching them and, most importantly,
ccantl@joincca.org.
September 2009
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A Florida Style Boat Show Arrives In Houston! South Shore Harbour Marina, Bay Area Houston, September 24th - 27th, 2009
The South Shore Harbour Marina plays host to the largest in-water boat show ever to come to Houston, a big bustling “Florida Style” Boat Show in the Bay Area, with over 400 boats in the water and onshore, many ready to demo. Luxury autos, trucks and custom motorcycles, swimwear fashion shows, fishing and boating gear, live music from The Bahamas and plenty of fun for the family, all geared to four fabulous days of fun in the sun. So don’t miss out on the biggest and most exciting boat show ever to arrive in Houston’s Bay Area, the South West International Boat Show!
For exhibit and visitor details please contact: 561.842.8808 • E-mail info@southwestintlboatshow.com or visit us on line at: www.SouthWestInternationalBoatShow.com GulF CoASt YACHt BrokerS ASSoCIAtIon
l
l
galveston tides & Solunar Table Texas Saltwater Fishing Magazine SEPTEMBER 2009
The BEST Choice‌ Any Place, Anytime!
To find a location near you, please visit us at www.speedystop.com
Tidal Corrections Location Calcasieu Pass, La. Sabine Bank Lighthouse Sabine Pass (jetty) Sabine Pass Mesquite Point Galveston Bay (S. jetty) Port Bolivar Texas City, Turning Basin Eagle Point Clear Lake Morgans Point Round Point, Trinity Bay Point Barrow, Trinity Bay Gilchrist, East Bay Jamaica Beach, Trinity Bay Christmas Point Galveston Pleasure Pier San Luis Pass Freeport Harbor
High -2:14 -1:46 -1:26 -1:00 -0:04 -0:39 +0:14 +0:33 +3:54 +6:05 +10:21 +10:39 +5:48 +3:16 +2:38 +2:39 +2:32 -0:09 -0:44
Low -1:24 -1:31 -1:31 -1:15 -0:25 -1:05 -0:06 +0:41 +4:15 +6:40 +5:19 +5:15 +4:43 +4:18 +3:31 +2:38 +2:33 +2:31 -0:09
For other locations, i.e. Port O’Connor, Port Aransas, Corpus Christi and Port Isabel please refer to the charts displayed below.
Please note that the tides listed in this table are for the Galveston Channel. The Tidal Corrections can be applied to the areas affected by the Galveston tide.
Minor Feeding Periods are in green, coinciding with the moon on the horizon, and the last from 1.0 to 1.5 hrs after the moon rise or before moon set. Major Feeding Periods are in orange, about 1.0 to 1.5 hrs either side of the moon directly overhead or underfoot. Many variables encourage active feeding current flow (whether wind or tidal driven), changes in water temp & weather, moon phases, etc. Combine as many as possible for a better chance at an exceptional day. Find concentrations of bait set up during a good time frame, and enjoy the results.
Te x a s S a l t w a t e r F i s h i n g M a g a z i n e l
w w w. t e x a s s a l t w a t e r f i s h i n g m a g a z i n e . c o m
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Texas Saltwater Fishing
September 2009
35
F i e l d
n o t e s
the Rocks of Baffin Bay By Amy Larimer, Upper Laguna Madre Ecosystem, Fish and Wildlife Technician, Corpus Christi, TX.
Field Notes Any angler familiar with the Baffin Bay area knows how dangerous and expensive encounters with the area’s rocks and reefs can be. No one wants to replace a prop or lower unit. The upper Laguna Madre lacks oyster reefs, but does have two types of naturally occurring hard bottom habitats, beach rocks and serpulid reefs. Both the rocks and reefs were formed from 300 years to 30,000 years ago. The beach rock is found mainly from Penascal Point south, on the eastern shoreline of the Laguna Madre.
Close-up of a piece of serpulid rock showing attached barnacles.
The beach rocks are 20,000 to 30,000 years old and are composed of coquina shell fragments, sand and clay bound together. Because these rocks were once
habitat, serpulid reef, was built by a colony
some living worms still found on these
the Gulf of Mexico shoreline, before the
or aggregate of tube-dwelling polychaete
reefs, the reefs are no longer building
formation of Padre Island, they are called
worms. These worms are called serpulids
or enlarging. Scientists believe that the
beach rocks. The serpulid reefs are much
(after the family of tube-building worms,
serpulid reefs stopped growing around
younger than the beach rocks, from 300
Serpulidae), and much like coral reef-
the same time the salinity increased in
to 3,000 years old, and are found in Baffin
building animals, make their tube homes
the Laguna Madre.
Bay and its tributary bays Laguna Salada,
out of calcium carbonate. Over time,
Serpulid reefs are unique and found
Cayo del Grullo and Alazan Bay.
these tubes build up into very large
nowhere else on the Texas coast. Living
rock-like reef structures. While there are
and growing serpulid reefs occur in
This second type of hard structure
only a few areas in the world. There Serpulid rock surrounded by seagrass.
are two types of relict serpulid reefs: patch reefs and reef fields. Patch reefs consist of small, isolated round rocks that are located mainly on the northern end of Baffin Bay. The patch reef height ranges from 1.5 to 6 feet above the bay bottom and are sometimes exposed at low tides. The reef fields are large, irregularly shaped areas of serpulid reef which protrude only slightly above the bay bottom. Because of the buildup of sediments over the centuries, these reefs are more massive than they appear and actually extend several feet or more into the bay bottom. Reef fields are found
36
September 2009
Texas Saltwater Fishing
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F i e l d around the mouth of Alazan Bay and in
serpulid rocks. Mark the location of the rocks on your
Laguna Salada.
marine chart or GPS to avoid hitting them with your boat.
Like oyster reefs in other bay systems, serpulid reefs and beach rock add a
n o t e s
It may make a difference between a pleasant fishing day and expensive trip to the repair shop.
structural component to the upper Laguna
F
Madre ecosystem. This habitat provides complexity and biodiversity, which in turn provides shelter, food and protection for many organisms. Some scientists believe that adding structure or hard substrate to an environment (as in the case of artificial reefs in the Gulf) can increase fish populations. Many anglers believe this and both the serpulid reefs and beach rocks have become favorite fishing spots in the Baffin Bay area. Even though there are many reports of large spotted
A view of serpulid rocks at Penascal Point at low tide.
seatrout being caught near these reef and rock structures, there is no scientific data that verifies this. The success and the quality of fishing that occurs in the upper Laguna Madre are often attributed to the complexity and the community structure that the serpulid reefs and rocks have added to the ecosystem through time. Even though these important fish habitats have been around for upwards of 30,000 years, they are threatened from a variety of sources, both natural and man-made. Oil and gas development can destroy the rocks through seismic activity. Dredging operations deposit the silt and cover the reefs rocks and associated
Serpulid rock with attached algae.
invertebrate communities. The serpulid reefs are decreasing in size and distribution and continue to face several other threats. Because of the way the reefs were made, they are fragile and easily damaged. The biggest threat is damage caused by anglers and boaters. Collisions by boats and trampling, while wade fishing, causes pieces to break off. Over time, the amount of large serpulid reefs in Baffin Bay is being damaged and many have been reduced to rubble. Losing these relict reefs and important habitats
Another view of serpulid rocks exposed by low tide at Penascal Point.
might mean reductions in quality fishing experiences in the Baffin Bay area. Avoid standing on these reefs, especially the fragile Just Keep Five
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Texas Saltwater Fishing
September 2009
37
k aya k
f i s h i n g
New kayaks and accessories debut at Outdoor Retailer Show c ap t. scott null
It seems like just a couple months
are not allowed. The Torqeedo is unlike any
GPS that determines the battery level, current
motor I have seen. Most of their models were
speed and remaining range. The information
ago that I was writing about the latest and
designed similar to small outboards up to a 9.9
is displayed right there on the throttle unit.
greatest kayaks being introduced at the 2008
hp equivalent. But the one we’re interested
Another cool feature is a magnetic kill switch
Outdoor Retailer Show in Salt Lake City, yet
in is a new motor designed specifically for use
that stops the motor should you happen to fall
here I am getting ready to do it again. Where
on kayaks. They are working directly with
overboard. I’m working on getting a model
did the year go?
Confluence and Hobie to provide motors
for testing and will hopefully bring you a full
for some of their new boats, however the
report soon.
While walking the show visiting various booths, I realized this is already my fifth year
motors can be adapted to fit most any kayak
On the kayak side, there were several
of attendance. Every year I keep thinking it
with a simple ball-mount base. Torqeedo can
new models that should get the attention
has all been done and then the designers
be connected to the boat’s rudder system
of kayak fishermen. The Confluence booth
dream up something new, or at least put a
allowing you to steer with your foot pedals.
had a boat that caught the eye of everyone
new spin on an old design. This year the most intriguing thing I saw was not a kayak. Something I’ve heard continuously from my
In visiting with the co-founder of the company I discovered that this isn’t
their new hybrid kayak/canoe, the Wilderness
just another trolling motor. The
non-paddling friends, “I’d get a kayak if they’d
high-efficiency motor has a 1
put a motor on it.” Well, the kayak companies
hp motor power equivalency
must have been hearing the same thing;
powered by a 28.8 volt lithium
all the manufacturers seem to be getting
manganese battery. In testing,
on board with some sort of electric motor.
it powered a Hobie Outback
Legacy started it last year with their Volt
to just over 6 mph. The
system, which is basically a short-shaft trolling
range varies depending on
motor married to their Native Ultimate kayaks.
the speed selected, but at
This year there’s a new player acting
who walked by. It was a special edition of Systems Commander. I
moderate levels it can easily
independently of the kayak manufacturers.
carry you through an entire
Torqeedo is a German company that is
day of fishing. The remote
designing high-efficiency electric motors for
throttle has an on-board
boating on lakes where combustion engines
computer with integrated
The Torq electr ic k ueedo motor dreaya k interest a w at lot of t OR-2009.
Special Edition Wilderness Systems Commander…sweet! 38
September 2009
Texas Saltwater Fishing
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immediately fell in love with the slick, black
from the paddle-fishing crowd. The stern
Kevlar composite and teak trim. It was
consists of two separate sponsons. When
absolutely gorgeous and one of only fifty to
folded, the boat looks and performs like a
be built. Unfortunately, the five grand price
typical sit-on-top kayak, but the sponsons can
tag ended the brief love affair and sent me
be rotated out in a V to provide extra stability.
in search of the plastic alternative on display
The drawback to that design is that the kayak
nearby. The basic design is similar to the
becomes very inefficient and difficult to
Native Ultimate with a few tweaks including
paddle. It also tipped the scales at around
a seating area on top of the deck behind the
85 lbs. Their new 12’ model has answered
cockpit. It gives you the option of sliding the
these shortcomings and it looks like they now
phase three seat under the deck and perching
have a winner. The Freedom 12 has the same
yourself up top to gain a better view while
sponsons but instead of forming a V, they now
sightfishing. Another option would be to slide
deploy parallel to the hull making it much
the cockpit seat forward and let a child or small
easier to paddle. The weight of the new boat
adult sit on the deck. The hull design reminds
is a more manageable 65 lbs with sponsons
me of the ultra-stable Ride which should make
attached. You can also detach them for
this an excellent platform for those who prefer
loading and unloading making it even easier
to stand while fishing.
to handle.
Speaking of standing, Native has a new
I could go on for another page talking
stand-up fishing kayak. The Kevlar Osceola
about the various tweaks to existing models
Elite Paddleboard looks like a surfboard on
and a bunch of new accessories that you’ll
steroids. At 12’ long and 31” wide it is a super
soon see at your local paddlesport dealer
stable watercraft that allows you to pole or
but, unfortunately, I have run out of space.
paddle silently through skinny water searching
If you see a guy zipping along with some
for redfish. After talking with fishing guru,
funky looking motor hanging off the back of
Jimbo Meador, I’m really looking forward to
his kayak, wave me over and check out my
giving this thing a try. It isn’t something you’ll
Torqeedo.
Kayak fish ing
Torqueedo powered Wilderness Commander.
want to paddle across open water but, if you could be the ticket for sneaking up on spooky fish. Light weight and slim profile make it the perfect fishing platform for anyone looking to mother-ship to distant marshes. Freedom Hawk Kayaks is another company that offers kayaks for stand-up fishing. Their original model, the Freedom 14, came out a
Contact
have a shallow fishing hole near a launch, this
few years ago and garnered some interest Just Keep Five
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Texas Saltwater Fishing
September 2009
39
South Florida Bridge Snook I am sure you have all heard me say it at least a couple of times- I really dig tarpon fishing. Some might
c ap t. scott somm e r l atte
even say it is an unwholesome addiction. Hence, my sister refers to my obsession with everything tarpon as “fish porn.” Now, it is on to what is next in line. Well, anything that pulls hard and tests my skills as an angler. And, nothing does that more than the big “bridge” snook of south Florida. Last summer I had the chance to hook up with my good friend and fellow guide, Mike Conner, for an evening of tossing flies against the bridge pilings and piers near Stuart, Florida for monster snook. It had been something that I wanted to do for a long time and I was quite excited that it was finally happening. Incidentally, it was by the good graces of the illustrious editor of this publication, that it even happened at all. He had asked
Nite Mullet flies and loaded the rods into the
bend of the rod relaxed and the line went
me to go, on his behalf, to the D.O.A.
boat and we pulled out of the driveway just
limp. After letting loose a few colorful
Outdoor Writers Festival and come back
as the sun was setting. Within a short time I
comments and taking a good ribbing
with a good story to tell and boy, did I ever
heard the click of the switch that ignited the
from Conner, I regained my composure ,
come back with a story. But what you all
running lights and the hum of the starter. We
rebuilt my leader and raided Conner’s fly
read (hopefully) in the issue last August
were underway and making way. I was jacked
box. But, before I could get up and cast
was only half the story. You see, there was
to say the least.
again, Conner was fighting a fish so I set my
no way that I was going over to Florida to
After a short run Conner brought the
rod down and landed his fish for him. As I
only throw plastic baits at fish- I needed to
skiff off plane and dropped the trolling
lifted the 36” snook from the water I knew
chunk some hair and feathers. So, I called
motor and began casting to the pilings. I
the evening was only going to get better.
up Conner and we compared schedules and
followed his lead and before long my fly
And, did it ever…In just over an hour we
luckily for me, it all worked out.
line stretched tight. Now I have to honestly
landed several 34”-36” snook, all of which I
The late afternoon before the event,
say, I was not prepared for what happened
considered good fish. Then, later that night,
I pulled up in Conner’s driveway to find
next. Sure, I had caught some pretty good
it happened!
him hard at work loading the boat for our
snook in my time but, they all came from
excursion. After a few pleasantries, I uncased
the shallow shorelines of the Everglades
strike and then rotated my body to drive
and assembled my fly rods. For this trip I
where the fish do not have the opportunity
the hook home. Then, after what can only
decided to travel with what I consider to be
to head for deeper water and into the
be described as chaos, I did everything I
one of my “lucky” rod and reel outfits- a G
unseen pilings below. And, my idea of what
could to gain control of myself and then the
Loomis Crosscurrent 10-weight with a Tibor
constitutes a good snook was about to
fish. I had no idea that a snook could pull
Riptide reel. I figured I only had one evening
change dramatically.
so danged hard. Let me tell you, there was
to catch my biggest snook ever, so I needed
40
Once hooked, my first fish immediately
I felt the take and made a decisive strip-
not a single molecule of graphite in that
all the help I could get. This particular rod
headed for the depths and towards the
Loomis rod that did not feel the strain of me
and reel combo had served me very well
bridge pilings. Needless to say I was
pulling against that fish. The rod was flexed
over the last few years on tarpon. I put on
not ready for the pull and I pretty much
from the tip all the way to the butt cap and
one of Conner’s hand-tied little-white Mid-
spazzed out. Seconds later the intense
I had the reel drag as tight as I dared. It was
September 2009
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came up to the surface thrashing wildly. I still can remember the joy that I experienced when Conner lifted the 39” snook from the water- by far my largest. And, if that is not enough, I got the chance to land a 42” fish for my friend and we both hooked into a couple of brutes that we could not turn. It was truly an amazing night of fishing. After that remarkable experience, I would almost be willing to bet that whoever came up with the idea to scare little kids with the legend of a troll that lives under a bridge
acco r ding to scott
all I could do to stop it, but eventually, I won out and the fish
was a south Florida snook fisherman. Big, green and mean is the only way to describe them. I would recommend the
Contact
experience to anyone. Capt. Scott Sommerlatte is a full time fly fishing and light tackle guide, freelance writer and photographer. Telephone 979-415-4379 Email vssommerlatte@hotmail.com Website www.scottsommerlatte.com
LOSE A TROPHY FISH
“
TO A BRITTLE HOOK, AND IT’S A LONG BOAT RIDE HOME.” – KEVIN, HOWARD, CHRIS
Heat Treat, 42 years combined
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TM
Texas Saltwater Fishing
September 2009
41
texas saltwater Through youthful eyes
A Aro n cisn e ros
Another Great TIFT Experience August brought the 70th anniversary of the TIFT Fishing Tournament. TIFT is a family event and anglers of all ages from all over the country look forward to participating in both offshore and bay divisions. Last year Hurricane Dolly brought the tournament’s only cancellation in its history, so this year’s crowd was full of anticipation and ready to set the hook on anything that would bite. I had the opportunity to fish the bay division with the same group as in the past four years, including a new addition to the team, thirteen year old Nick Villarreal. Nick has a great passion for fishing; he reminds me of myself when I was that age. Leaving the dock before daylight made it even more exciting, and being that it was Nick’s first TIFT Tournament I knew exactly how he felt. As for me; my adrenaline was pumping. The thought of making the right cast at the right time went through my mind; questions without answers kept ringing in my ears. “Would I walk in the right direction?
though to remind myself that no matter
Could I set the hook at
what the outcome would be I would
the right time? Should
enjoy myself till the end.
I use a topwater or a
We bailed out at our first spot. Nick
plastic worm?” All of
and my dad worked the edge of a
these thoughts added
spoil bank hoping for a big trout bite; I
to the knot I had in my
decided to wade a flat about 100 yards to
stomach. No longer
their right. Walking through grassy knee
was I competing in the
deep water I spotted a seagull flying
junior bay division.
low; and right below the bird was a pod
This was my first year
of tailing redfish. I quickly picked the
to compete with the
one to throw at hoping that it would be
adults, and I did not
the biggest in the group because of its
know what to expect.
rather large tail sticking out of the water. …Cont’d on page 45
I did make it a point 42
September 2009
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
The Rod that sells itself.
361-573-0300
waterloorods.com
Just Keep Five
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Texas Saltwater Fishing
September 2009
43
rube n vill ar r e al
e v e r y
m a n ’ s
o ff s h o r e
The Essential Seven When it comes to preparing for an offshore trip it doesn’t matter
used in conjunction with outrigger clips
tool with many applications. If you happen
to insure a soft release and eliminating
to be drifting around a rig you can slow
potential damage to outrigger poles.
the drift to gain fishing time and hopefully
if you are going out ten
swivel is a basic tool that gives the knot
String and Swivel: The string and
put more fish in the boat. Drift socks are extremely valuable when fishing over
miles or one hundred; whether you go by
bottom structure such as wrecks, sunken
bay boat, big center console, or sportfishing
rigs and wellheads. Here again, more time
yacht, preparation is preparation. The
to drift or drop baits over the structure
essential seven does not include the
versus having the wind or the current, or
obvious things such as fresh line on your
both, push you off the spot is often one of
reels or making sure your boat’s batteries
the keys to successful angling. Kosher Salt: Kosher salt is very effective
are fully charged. I’m talking about little everyday things that should be onboard to enhance your trip. Sometimes we get so
The string and swivel is a great aid when cinching knots.
for brining bait such as ballyhoo. Brining helps preserve and toughens the bait so
caught up concentrating on the obvious
tier a stable point to pull against versus
that when it is pulled through the water
that we fail to think outside the box.
just trying to hold the swivel or the hook
it doesn’t get soft and mushy and fall off
in your hand and running the risk of
the hook easily. Those five pound boxes
can be worth its weight in platinum
getting stuck with a hook and going to the
of cigar minnows and Spanish sardines
on a fishing trip. Its many uses include
emergency room to get it out. All you have
that many anglers pick up at there favorite
to do is find any secure spot on the boat
bait stand could also use a generous
and loop it on and you’re in business.
dusting of Kosher salt. How many times
Super Glue: A bottle of superglue
Superglue has many uses for offshore fishermen.
Sabiki Rigs: Being diversified in your
have you been out with your buddies
bait presentation is one of the keys to
and by the middle of the day you open a
being successful in your offshore trip. It
box of sardines only to be met with the
doesn’t matter if your state water snapper
disappointment of soggy minnows that
fishing or fishing for blue marlin; having
gamefish or less glamorous species can
Having a Sabiki rig handy is invaluable when filling the livewell with frisky baits.
easily pick off your hook? Kosher salt can help preserve those cigar minnows and sardines so long as you keep the melted ice water off them. Snorkel Mask: If you fish long enough offshore, a snorkel mask will one day become your best friend due to the obvious fact that you can’t see like a fish.
securing knots in super-braid line and a
One day you will be out on the water and
quick fix for re-attaching loose rod tips.
get a line or leader wrapped in your prop
Cuts on hands and fingers are everyday
or, even worse, spin a hub. When this
occurrences for offshore fishermen
happens, tilting your motor sometimes
and superglue can seal them like liquid
isn’t enough and you will have to get into
stitches after cleansing the wound.
the water to get a better handle on the
Rubber bands: Rubber bands are great
situation. Donning a PFD and mask will aid
for keeping things organized in groups live bait could make the difference in
wrapping around the handle of your reel
actually getting bit. Sabiki rigs are a good
offshore trip, review your check list and see
to hold the line coming off you’re your rod
insurance policy to having better hookups
if you have included the essential seven.
tip when trolling. Lowering the angle of the
at times and possibly stirring up more
Remember, it’s those little things found
line gives your lure a better presentation.
predators.
outside the box that can make an offshore
Rubber bands are also a good choice when 44
in identifying and correcting the problem.
such as hooks, but are really good for
September 2009
Drift Sock: The drift sock is a valuable Texas Saltwater Fishing
So the next time you prepare for an
trip even more memorable. www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
Advertisement
Made a perfect cast and bam I set the hook on a solid red. The big redfish stripped about ten yards of line, and then the unthinkable occurred. My line busted. I tied on as fast as I could, but by then I lost sight of the redfish. As I stood quietly scanning the water I could hear Nick and my dad laughing with excitement. I could hear my dad congratulating Nick on his big trout. Two of the guys in our group were on a big school of redfish, so we opted to join them. The school had about hundred to one hundred and fifty fish in it, and the cool thing about it they were in twelve inches of water. You could see the water turn a bronze color as they cruised in front of us. They were very difficult to catch, but Nick managed to land the one he was looking for. As Nick and I waded side by side, it brought back past TIFT moments. I was happy to see him do well.
A Aro n cisn e ros
…Cont’d from page 42
South Shore Harbour Hosts International Boat Show
One year after Ike led to it’s cancellation, the South
West International Boat Show returns to Bay Area Houston, to one of the best known venues in the Gulf Coast region, the South Shore Harbour Marina.
Unlike any other boat show in the Houston area, the
South West International Boat Show is an open invitation to manufacturers, dealers, brokers and charter companies to
It was barely eight-thirty in the morning and all he needed was a flounder to
participate in a truly international, in-water, boat show.
complete his stringer.
It was at the next stop that I realized it was not going to be my day. I hooked
The show will offer a variety of the latest boats from
around the world, 10’ Bass Boats, 40’ Power Boats, 70’
and fought a big trout that stripped line like a redfish. As I got her closer, she
Cruisers/Sport Fish, 85’ Motor Yachts and all priced to sell.
shook her head and slipped into the water. My heart sank with that lost fish, but
Along with end of season deals and 2010 model previews,
I continued plugging away. At the next stop something unusual occurred. I was
the opportunity to demo many of the boats on display at
catching lots of small trout when all of a sudden I got a hard thump; I set the hook
this in-water show adds a whole new dimension to boat
and could tell it was a decent trout. The trout headed for the shallow, thick grass,
show shopping.
and again the unthinkable occurred. The hook came out. I was in shock and more
so was the trout as it laid in the thick grass bed. I could still see it. I ran up to it
for the active boating lifestyle, the South West International
and scooped it up with my net. I stood there laughing to myself while the people
Boat Show will feature the latest in luxury autos from BMW,
in the boat close by watched in disbelief. I spent the rest of the day looking for an
Ferrari, Maserati and Mercedes, custom motorcycles from
upper slot redfish, but all I could manage was a five pounder.
Harley-Davidson and the opportunity to actually win a
The end of the first day came quickly as we stood at the weigh-in. Nick was feeling nervous, but I knew he was in good shape. Bright and early the next day we headed to the area where we found the big school of reds. Again they were hard to catch, but not for Nick. He was able to land what he needed. Since nobody on our team other than Nick had a chance to place after the first day, we made the decision to leave the reds and help locate a big trout for him. Nick and I waded side by side and twice I landed the trout he was looking for. I could see and sense his frustration and knew what was going through his mind. I encouraged him to keep casting. By the end of the second day Nick did not land the trout he was hoping for, but he did have a good first day and still had an outside chance to place.
As well as offering a full range of products and services
Harley, swimwear fashion shows, live music and plenty of fun for the family.
The event will be opened by League City Mayor, Toni
Randall, who will be joined by other Bay Area Mayors and leading dignitaries from the region to cut the ribbon at 10.30am on Thursday, 24th September. Please visit www.southwestinternationalboatshow.com for information on sponsors, exhibitors and events taking place across the four days.
Show Hours:
Thursday, 24th September.............................. 11am - 6pm
On the third day the awards were held at the SPI Convention Center, and
Opening Ceremony..................................................10:30am
even though I did not go, I knew exactly what Nick was going through with
Friday, 25th September.................................... 11am - 7pm
sweaty palms, knot in his stomach, and “what if” thoughts. As they announced
Saturday, 26th September..............................10am - 7pm
the winners, Nick’s name was called out for third place in the junior bay
Sunday, 27th September................................. 11am - 6pm
division. When we got a phone call letting us know he had won third place, we were so happy for him. I knew how proud he must have felt. Even though I didn’t fair well in the tournament it was fun watching a younger person earn his placing. His first TIFT experience renewed a lot of fond memories. I don’t fish many tournaments but TIFT is one I always enjoy. If you have never been a part of TIFT, I highly suggest that you join in on the fun and excitement. With well over fifteen hundred anglers combined in the offshore and bay divisions the excitement can well up, and I know for sure of one angler that is already eagerly awaiting next year’s tournament. Congratulations Nick on a job well done. Just Keep Five
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tsf maga zin e spotlig ht
Huff Marine Huff Marine is a second-generation family-owned business located at 5918 South Staples in Corpus Christi. Their specialty is shallow water fishing boats and outboard engines, sold and serviced the old-fashioned way. Mr. A.C. Huff, founder and original owner, opened an outboard engine repair shop in 1955 at the location that is still home to Huff Marine. A.C. turned the business over to sonin-law and daughter, Ronnie and Brenda (Huff) Nance in 1971. Mr. Huff, now ninety-five, remains involved, assisting at local boat shows and always enjoys hearing how each day goes at the shop. Brenda became active in the business from the beginning helping her dad with administrative work. Ronnie began working for Huff Marine while attending high school and continued off and on after graduating from what is now Texas A&M Kingsville. Brenda says, “The business sure has changed over the years. Back when we started Gale was a big player in outboards and I doubt many of our customers today would even recognize the name. Today we sell and service Suzuki, Johnson and Evinrude outboards and we became a dealer for Dargel Boats in the early 80s. Huff Marine is very proud to represent this excellent Texas boat builder.” Like Huff, Dargel is no newcomer to the south Texas fishing scene. Since 1937, Dargel has been designing and building flats boats of exceptional value, quality and performance. Their Skout series hulls offer fuel efficiency along with a smooth ride. The Hydrolift tunnel offers access to fishing spots others can only dream of reaching. Ronnie Nance and Roy Hicks are the backbone of Huff’s service team. Roy began his career with the company in 1978. Customers know and trust Roy as an honest, competent mechanic who prefers taking time to actually fix a problem rather than changing parts quickly and handing them an inflated repair bill. Ronnie and Roy have seventy years combined experience. On Huff’s operating policies, Brenda says, “We operate on friendly terms here. Customers deserve a no-pressure atmosphere; we never try to talk someone into a boat they don’t need. Taking each buyer to the water for training is part of selling. We want them to understand how to operate their boat safely and efficiently as much as we want them to enjoy their buying experience. Our success is based on repeat customers who refer friends looking for honest deals and reliable, friendly service.” Huff Marine has been honored to receive Suzuki’s, Cutting Edge Award, for excellence in service 2005-2008. Store hours 7:30-6:00 Mon-Fri and 8:00-12:00 Sat. Huff Marine: 361-991-0369 or online: huffmarine1955.com Visit Huff Marine at Rockport Sea Fair; October 9-11, 2009.
46
September 2009
Texas Saltwater Fishing
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Beach anglers meet for Sharkathon registration.
Sharkathon: A Revolutionary Concept By Rick Underbrink and Russell Weir A shark fisherman once said, “Let’s cut out the jaws so I can hang them on my wall.” Looking back at a dried set of shark jaws on the top shelf of the closet for ten years has led to the realization that the memorabilia could have been replaced with a photo. A photo would allow that shark to survive and continue the sport of shark fishing for future generations. The idea of catch, photo, and release laid the foundation for a competition that would renovate the future of shark fishing. Educating anglers old and new with a model to conserve a depleted resource led to the creation of a tournament called Sharkathon. One evening around a Padre Island campfire, a group of concerned shark fishermen discussed the dismal results of kill tournaments. These gentlemen collectively agreed that fishing tournaments held on Padre Island National Seashore had a negative impact on the ecology of the Island they deeply cherished. Yet, the gentlemen pondered the idea of a new style of contest. By eliminating the negative effects of kill tournaments they jointly conceived the idea of a catch, photo and release shark fishing tournament. This begs the question how Sharkathon works. How can anglers compete in a shark fishing tournament when the weight or length can’t be verified? This was the challenge that defines Sharkathon for its ingenuity and resourcefulness. The digital age had finally allowed a catch and release tournament to exist. Sharkathon founders designed a format that utilized digital photography and a reference object recognized as the Sharkathon ruler. The ruler measures four feet in length and is given to the contestant on the day of the tournament. The ruler is stretched across the centerline of a captured shark. Multiple photos are taken and the shark is measured and released. Tournament organizers retrieve the photos and analyze them digitally to verify the length of the shark based upon the Sharkathon ruler in the photo. This proven format has transformed the shark fishing community. Men, women and children Just Keep Five
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are enjoying catch and release shark fishing and the novel idea has spread like wildfire. In just five years, participation has grown from 50 to an astonishing 400 anglers who assemble each year to support the ideology. Competitors are joining the revolution against kill tournaments and feel significance in using the resource responsibly. This is a unique medium, and one that is well-suited to the grassroots approach of raising awareness. It is only through a collective voice that we can make changes in behavior. That is what makes Sharkathon. A megaphone designed to direct the voices of many into a cohesive message of conservation. Sharkathon has come a long way since that starry night on the beach. After five successful tournaments, Sharkathon has begun looking at Jess Underbrink poses for length verification photo prior to release.
the long-range goals for the organization. The future involves collaboration with scientists and researchers to learn more about shark populations and migratory patterns in the Gulf of Mexico. Sharkathon has worked closely with the National Park Service to create an event that reflects the ideology of the park and helps to conserve the wildlife within the park, while providing educational opportunities for participants and spectators alike. This includes increased participation in the Billy Sandifer Big Shell Beach Cleanup. Sharkathon has earned a reputation for rewarding its participants generously and much credit is due the sponsors and participants of the event. Sharkathon 2008 handed out $24,000 dollars in cash, five kayaks, five custom rod and reel outfits and over $10,000 in door prizes. Each year the payouts Texas Saltwater Fishing
and prizes grow to astonishing amounts. To increase sponsorship interest and allow further growth, Sharkathon was incorporated as a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. The organizers do not receive one dollar for putting on this event, a simple sacrifice to spread the word of conservation. This year’s event is scheduled for September 25-27 at Padre Island National Seashore. The award ceremony will be held September 27 at the Briscoe Pavilion in Padre Balli Park near Corpus Christi. This year will likely be the largest Sharkathon ever and, with so many participants, it is more important than ever to have every participant pick up and pack out more trash than they brought in. With an event this large, it is imperative that all participants follow the rules of the park and cooperate with each other to minimize impact on the environment. Trash bags will be distributed to each participant to encourage dispose of all trash in the dumpsters provided by the National Park Service. Padre Island National Seashore is an enchanting place that deserves to be respected by all visitors. Registration for the tournament is only online and has historically filled fast. The organizers limit the number of participants to minimize impact on the National Park. Anglers can compete in the following divisions: Shark, Trout, Redfish, Tarpon, Women’s and Kids. All fish must be released to qualify. It takes little time to teach a person why it is important to release sharks, but once the seed has been planted, many anglers see the value and participate willingly. Sharkathon encourages like-minded anglers to join in spreading the word of conservation and recruiting new members into the world of catch and release. Join the revolution where the only thing taken from the sea is a memory and a photograph. A set of shark jaws never showed a smile anyways. Catch, Smile, Photo, Release! For more information about Sharkathon, please visit our website at www.sharkathon.com. September 2009
47
n ew tack le an d g e ar
D.O.A. • The Unfair Advantage Fishing Lures
Following the popularity of the first B.F.L. (Big Fish Lure), D.O.A. is proud to announce the availability of its little brother, the B.F.L. 5.5. The B.F.L.5.5 offers the same great swimming action, the versatility of removeable and replaceable front bills. Replacement bodies are available for the B.F.L. 5.5 which makes it a value conscious product that fish can’t resist. Through wire design and mechanically sharpened, super strong hooks are features that make the B.F.L.5.5 a first choice lure for anglers everywhere. Retail $ 10.99 D.O.A. Fishing Lures •1253 SE Dixie Cutoff Rd • Stuart, FL 34994 • 772 287 5001 www.doalures.com
Fisherman Eyewear The Katalina features modern frames of large, square-lens design with metal temple accent. Built-in hinges add stability and strength. Our lightweight polycarbonate lens offers extreme comfort in this large frame. This frame style is offered in shiny black with our deepwater gray lens and also our new tiger stripe tortoise color frame with our freestone brown lens.
The Marysol (which means ocean and sun) will feature a sporty yet chic frame, offering spring hinge temples for a soft and comfortable fit. This frame style will be offered in shiny black with our deepwater gray lens and our new tiger stripe tortoise color frame with our freestone brown lens. The tiger tortoise frames are designed specifically to block glare and UV from any direction.
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48
September 2009
Texas Saltwater Fishing
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Just Keep Five
Just in time for dove, quail and duck season is the new Pro Shell Boxes and Bird/Equipment bag from Fish-N-Hunt. These accessories were designed to fit perfectly on the Walk-NWade belt or any belt. The Shell Boxes are manufactured in tightly stitched nylon/polyester with Velcro tabs to keep them closed and to stay open for quick access. The Bird/Equipment bag was made for both left and right handed hunters to reach back and store birds and equipment. These products come in both black and exclusive FNH Camo for your hunting enjoyment. Shell box and equipment bag are available at $19.99 each. High quality and
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competitive prices----That’s Fish-N-Hunt! Available online at www.fishandhunt.com and at most Academy Sports and Outdoors locations.
Okuma Built upon a rigid die cast aluminum (ALC) frame, Serrano low-profile reels are made to handle a broad range of freshwater and saltwater species. The aluminum right sideplate keeps all of the heavy duty, machine cut Dura brass gearing in perfect alignment, while the graphite left sideplate reduces weight and is easily removed for access to the adjustable 8-position Velocity Control System. The Serrano reel’s smoothness comes from 10 ball bearings incorporated throughout the reel. Despite the Serrano’s compact size, these reels still dish out 11 lbs. of drag, all while providing a 6.2:1 gear ratio for increased line pick up. Serrano still weighs in at only 7.2 oz., and is backed by Okuma’s 3-year warranty program.
Heddon
Introduces Two New Spooks With Sound! New for 2010 from Heddon are the Rattlin’ Spook and the One Knocker Spook, each with its own unique sound to draw strikes from big fish. The Rattlin’ Spook features a rattle chamber containing eight tungsten BBs for panicked baitfish sounds. The One Knocker Spook has one big BB for a resounding “thunk” on each twitch. The chambers amplify and intensify the sounds for a loud, fishcalling rattle while making it easier to produce smooth walk-the-dog retrieves. Fourteen color patterns and Mustad Triple Grip hooks seal the deal. Size on both of these baits is the same as the classic “Sweet Size” Spook that has duped fish for decades. MSRP $6.99.
Just Keep Five
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Texas Saltwater Fishing
September 2009
49
Dickie colburn’s Dickie Colburn Dickie Colburn is a full time guide out of Orange, Texas. Dickie has 37 years experience guiding on Sabine and Calcasieu Lakes. Telephone 409-883-0723 Website www.sabineconnection.com
sabine scene
Like anglers up and down the coast, we
buffet in the open lake, the birds will patrol feeding schools of fish from
have yielded a few pounds to the
their thing, a single slick can keep you in fish with no one else around.
oppressive heat and little or no
Blue Buck to East Pass all day long. When the feathered scouts aren’t doing There will be those days when you will catch better fish working an
cloud cover this summer, but the
Assassin or MirrOlure soft mullet on a heavier jighead below the smaller
catching has not slowed down on
more aggressive trout. My first choices for duping the largest fish in the
Sabine since the wind decided to
school, however, are a bone-chrome sided or pearl-chartreuse She Dog, a
give it a rest in late May. Due to the
green or black back MirrOdine XL, or one of the afore-mentioned plastics
minimal rainfall thus far, clearer
fished beneath a Kwik Cork on a 24-inch leader.
water and elevated salinity levels have jump started the bite in both
the Neches and Sabine Rivers as well.
We undoubtedly catch better numbers on the shorter paddle tail grubs like the Sea Shad or Soft Shad fished under the cork on a jighead, but I do much better on the heavier fish substituting the longer plastics rigged
The coveted conditions can be laid to waste overnight as we approach
weightless on a Mustad 3/0 wide gap hook. When fishing over grass, I skin
the heart of hurricane season, but should we escape a year of wind-blown
hook it to keep it weedless, but in open water, I simply thread it on the
misery, the fishing will only continue to improve throughout the fall
hook with the barb exposed. The larger trout and reds are attracted to the
months. Not to say that it hasn’t already been good enough, but it is the
slurp of the cork and the slow sinking tail seals the deal.
trout bite that will show the greatest improvement.
The redfish have stolen the show on Sabine this summer and that will not
As more shrimp begin to filter out of the marshes and join the shad
change no matter how good the trout bite gets. We are covered up with
Home of the StakeOut Stik
888-376-4055 www.LBOutfitters.com For more information go to
50
September 2009
Texas Saltwater Fishing
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Just Keep Five
sabin e slot fish and they are not lure shy. To target
Brian Bommer releases a nice slot red to fight again.
them is to simply go fishing right now. The Louisiana shoreline kicks out limits every day to the spinnerbait, Gulp or
every fisherman longs to hear. I looked up US
4-inch tails rigged on a jighead, and small
Reel’s phone number on
crankbaits. If eye-popping strikes are your
the internet and much to
thing, stick with the She Dog or crawl a
my surprise found myself talking to a real
plastic frog across the surface. The north
person rather than a recording.
revetment wall and flats on the north
That person was Maureen Dunn, Customer
end of the lake are no less productive for
Support/ Office Administrator, and she not
anglers relying not only on topwaters and
only patiently fielded my question, but took
plastics, but Traps and Hoginars as well.
the time to connect me with a service tech.
I have been smitten with US Reel’s
He was equally cordial and immediately
spinning reels since the day I bought my
pinpointed the problem as well as the easy fix.
first 230 SX and filled it with 20-pound
“Check your line roller assembly,” he
braid and that love affair was recently
suggested, “and keep it clean!”
reinforced. I had a reel with at least 400
The minor problem was not in the gears,
trips on it suddenly become difficult to retrieve line with under any
but unseen corrosion causing the line roller and bushing to seize up on
resistance. A client said that he had experienced the same thing and that
the bail. I removed one screw, cleaned the shaft, roller, and bushing,
really concerned me as a large percentage of repeat clients bought their
added a drop of oil and it was as good as new again.
own reels after using mine.
These are great reels obviously backed by folks that are proud of
After cleaning my reel down to the bare metal and re-packing it twice, I could not cure the problem. Now comes the part that
Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
their product and are willing to talk with fishermen. I bought another 240XL yesterday just to celebrate the positive experience!
Texas Saltwater Fishing
September 2009
51
mickey
On Galveston
Talk about a roller coaster, we’ve been on a
recap where we’ve been and make a prediction for the coming month.
pretty wild ride so far in 2009. The
weeks. Fishermen who throw live croaker are doing much better, just
highs have brought awesome
whacking the trout and taking limits every day. While this usually happens
action and the lows have been so
to some degree every year during the summer doldrums, this is about as
disappointing. Just about the time
bad as I’ve ever seen.
you think everything is about to fall
In general, fishing has taken a serious dive for pluggers over the past
I hate to keep harping on the weather but, truly, the relentless heat and
in place that old gal we call Mother
near non-stop wind have been the chief culprits. Fighting rough, muddy
Nature shows us who is really in
water in the open bay in 100-degree just isn’t much fun when you only get
charge and lately it hasn’t been
a few bites. A while back we caught a nice lay down that lasted for a week
me. If I have angered her with my
or so and the fishing shaped up almost immediately. We were able to work
guessing; I apologize.
deep reefs and scattered shell almost at will, concentrating on bait and
Trying to figure out where we’re headed next becomes more than a
slicks like we always do to find our fish. Sadly, that was short-lived. Strong south and southwest wind has been the norm here and we need a change.
$64,000 question. Lately, my forecasts have been missing the mark and this
Anything from an easterly direction would be great, southeast is always best
makes me think I might have made a better TV weatherman all these years
but I’d even take a due east wind instead of what we’ve been getting. We have been scratching along the ship channel and the spoils to find fish on lures. These areas have held the cleanest water with the best
rather than a fishing guide. The weatherman is the only guy that can be wrong most of the time and still maintain solid ratings. Be that as it may, it’s time to
52
September 2009
Texas Saltwater Fishing
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gaLvesto n protection on the southwest wind. Hardware fishermen are picking up two to three per angler and if you get 15 to 20 you’ve really done something while the croaker guys are getting 40-50 which means the fish are there, we just aren’t getting them. I have heard of a couple of big trout being caught, a couple over 10 pounds, but they were caught on live croakers. Nothing like that for us pluggers and I have had to cancel half of the trips because 2025mph steady just gets too rough out there. But it will get better and hopefully we can get some rain. It is just dry, hot and windy and it just makes for tough conditions. Let’s talk about what we’re going to do when conditions improve. Remember the water temps are way up there and that will cause the fish to school in deep water where there is plenty of bait. Hopefully we’ll get a shot of some of the deep structure stack-ups before the fish scatter to the shallower waters.
There are a lot of the fish in the north end of Trinity Bay and all down the west side. The east shoreline, God only knows how many fish are over there because we have not been able to fish it because the wind direction won’t get right. But when it does I would like to be there. The main concentrations of fish right now are along the deep spoil banks and the ship channel and up in the north end of Trinity. The wells are holding lots of fish too. Once it gets calm the wells will be red hot. I expect the main reefs in East Bay will be on fire as well. Hopefully we’ll be back on track soon and enjoying the type of action we had back in June. I wish I had a better report folks, but it is what it is. Hang on, fall is another season, we have lots of fish, we just need better conditions to be able to get on them.
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Texas Saltwater Fishing
September 2009
53
Capt. Bill
Fish Talk
September, in my words, is a transitional
as we head into the fall
month that carries us from
we experienced
summer to fall. I know it may
some extremely low
not seem like fall arrives in
tides the latter part
September because of the
of July and well into
continued hot weather but,
August combined
my reasoning is based on the
with persistent south-
kickoff of dove season in the
southwest winds that
north and south zones and
hampered our catching.
also the opening of archery
Nonetheless, a good
season for deer which comes on
supply of baitfish could
September 26 this year. Many
be found for those who
outdoorsmen can be found at a
endured and these are always one of the primary keys for
months. Unfortunately,
Trav is Fleetwood with a 28 1/2” trout.
hunting lease round about now and I hope I’m not far behind them.
good catching. It’s just harder to catch fish in muddy water and that is
September can be a good month for anglers seeking trout and reds.
exactly what we had. I’d rather tell a client upfront what the obstacles
Over the past few months we have been finding unusually abundant
will be and rebook for a better day than to struggle the entire day to
bait in both East and West Matagorda Bays and this will be a good thing
catch only a few mediocre fish.
54
September 2009
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matago r da Bull tides are not uncommon during September and if we get them
September and wade fishing is a totally
they can give our bays a much-needed flush after a long, hot summer.
different animal compared to working
In addition, we could get something tropical that would bring us some
the birds. This time of the year my normal
much-needed rain. So far, since December 2008, we’ve only received
routine may be to wade from daylight until
a mere 13 inches of rain here in Matagorda. A drop in the bucket compared to what is required to maintain a healthy bay system. Our bays are
around 10:00 AM or so and then Mike Grigar with a 26” trout.
head out to the middle of the bay to start drifting the deep, scattered shell while keeping
somewhat salty, especially East Matagorda Bay,
an eye open for bird activity in the area.
and I’m praying we will be receiving some in the
Top picks for baits this go round will be my
very near future.
tried and trusted Bass Assassins’ 10W40, Roach,
My records indicate we may experience a few
Pumpkinseed, Strawberry & White, and Chicken-
cool fronts moving through sometime around
on-a-Chain with the 5” Roach coming in at first
the middle to the latter part of September
place for the best plastic bait producer this year. As
which will trigger shrimp migrations and bird
for topwaters, it’s been the pearl, trout, and pink
activity in both bay systems. As a rule of thumb, when the teal begin
Skitterwalks along with the redfish and trout pattern Super Spooks. These
arriving to the coastal marshes, good fishing will follow. Every year can
have been best picks and I like to throw in a sprinkling of the floating
be different and the pattern may vary, but I hang my hat on the teal as
Corky lures as well.
a good indicator. Sometimes the entire month of September provides
Both East and West bay systems are in good shape as far as the supply
great fishing or perhaps the middle or latter portion may pan out better.
of baitfish and I believe our gamefish are out there too. It’s just some bad
Whenever fishing does take off it will normally hold right on through to
winds and low tides have hit us this year and it’s not just us- it’s the same
mid-December. I’m mainly talking here about working the birds in East
for most bay systems. Positive thinking will always get you over the hump
Matagorda Bay.
and we’ll get over this one and those to come. Let’s look for some great
Wade fishing should improve steadily as we work our way further into
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fall fishing with awesome catching. Take care and God Bless…Capt. Bill
Texas Saltwater Fishing
September 2009
55
po r t o ’co n n o r / se adr ift
mid-coast bays
wit h t he Grays CAPT. Shellie Gray
The fishing in our area for the last month or so has been
Tarah Ruddick proud to show off her best catch of the day.
unpredictable to say the least. With unusually high winds and low tides the fish have been hard to keep located. Even when we would locate solid biting fish in an area, the bite never seemed to last very long. I am hoping September brings our more seasonal calmer winds. Fishing for trout in the surf or on the reefs in the middle of San Antonio Bay has been off limits for the most part due to the higher winds. Lucky for us we are blessed with many back lakes and protected shorelines that offer us some relief from the winds and decent redfish action with a few trout mixed in. Under these conditions I prefer to start the mornings off with someone on the boat throwing a small topwater such as the Super Spook Jr. or a MirrOlure Top Pup. It is always exciting to watch a fish blow up on a
Texas rig without soft plastic lure.
topwater whether it results in a hookup or not. While I wouldn’t say topwaters are the best bait for catching numbers of fish, they are however, a great fish-finder. Using something I like to call the buddy system will help increase your odds of catching more fish. While one angler throws
water temperatures still being very warm. Patience is a big factor when it
a topwater the other angler throws soft plastic. If the topwater provokes
comes to catching fish during a slow period. Many anglers give up on an
some kind of reaction from fish but no hookup, then the other angler
area too easily and decide to move after catching only a few fish. During
throws the soft plastic just past the blowup. Most of the time if the fish are
these low tide high wind conditions I have better results if I stick with a
only somewhat interested in the topwater, offering a soft plastic usually
little catching instead of a lot of boat riding. If I have caught 4 or more
completes the deal.
keepers on a wade typically I will then circle back and wade the same
Our back lakes have an abundant amount of grass that makes it difficult
area over again before deciding to move to another spot. Same goes for
to use any soft plastic unless it is rigged weedless, some call it a Texas rig.
drifting as well. If you catch a few keepers on one drift make sure to go
I prefer to make mine by attaching a #10 or smaller barrel swivel to 6-8
back and drift the same area again. If you have invested in a Power Pole
inches of 20lb leader line then sliding a 1/16 to 1/8 ounce bullet weight
it is a good idea to stop your boat within casting distance of a windward
on before tying on a 4/0 worm hook. A 5-inch Salt Water Assassin in the
shoreline and saturate it with many casts before moving on. Bait tends to
Texas Roach color is one of my go-to colors. If the fish aren’t cooperative I
congregate on windward shorelines on windy days; therefore, trout and
will switch to a 5-inch Gulp Jerk Shad in the smelt color. I have found that
redfish will be there too looking for an easy meal.
even the most hesitant fish have a hard time passing up the scented Gulp
It also pays to concentrate your cast towards sand or mud pockets
baits. On some occasions I will also attach a mauler or Cajun Thunder
that are void of grass. Even old prop scars make for good possibilities
to my weedless setup to create a little more noise and slow down my
when looking for a hungry fish. Fish use the grass next to these areas as
presentation. Don’t be surprised to see trout and reds attacking the cork
camouflage hiding themselves while waiting for their prey to come into
before finding the soft plastic underneath.
these open unprotected pockets. Fishing this pattern and remaining
I look for the fishing to be much of the same in September with the 56
September 2009
patient will usually yield you better results by the end of the day.
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hooked up with
Stubbornness and a mid-day topwater pays off for plugging legend, Maurice Estlinbaum. Baffin – 31 inches - released!
I have a sign hanging in my
david rowsey
garage that says, “I love to
David Rowsey has 20 years experience in the Laguna/ Baffin region; trophy trout with artificial lures is his specialty. David has a great passion for conservation and encourages catch and release of trophy fish.
Rowsey
watch the seasons change... from hunting to fishing.” A simple quote, but one that I know rings true with most Texas outdoorsmen come September. It has been a long, hot, dry summer down here on the Laguna Madre and amidst
361-960-0340
the jagged rocks of Baffin
www.DavidRowsey.com
Bay. To say that I am looking forward to a dove hunt would
be a bit of an understatement. Plugging for trout will always be my first love in the outdoors, but the first crack of the 20 gauge, and
six. The fishing itself was better than a six, but considering the
watching a dove fly off safely (in my case) signifies that cooler days
drought, heat, and boat pressure, the overall rating suffered a
are just around the corner.
bit. The big positives for the summer were great water clarity,
On a scale of one to ten, I would rate Summer 2009 at about a
quality trout, and awesome clients that had the fortitude to
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September 2009
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uppe r laguna / baffin grind them out on a daily basis.
Saying that, never discount the large
This summer seemed to have brought record numbers of boats
rogue trout that hangs in mere inches all
to the bay system. Many were tournament based; some were
day. They are always harder to catch, but a
guides from up north. Since the silting in of Cedar Bayou, the
serious adrenaline rush when you find them. In the
fishing in the Rockport area is approaching all-time lows for that
past month, I have made two videos of big trout with
once productive fishery, according to
their backs and tails out of the water.
Capt. Jay Watkins. The lack of quality
After repeated casts by myself and a
fishing up north has forced many
client at one of the monsters, the fish
Rockport-based guides to spend
would not consider any offering, so we
their days further south, i.e., Laguna
videoed it to save the moment. Getting
Madre and Baffin. Finding productive
to watch a 30-plus trout mill around
areas to make a long wade with some
in shallow grass and do her thing is
solitude proved to be a bit challenging
something I hope all trophy trout
even during mid-week stretches. I’m
enthusiasts get to see someday. I have
not knocking the guides for being
been fortunate to walk up on many, and
down here; they are taking whatever
to this day I still get buck fever.
measures they can to put their clients
As previously mentioned, deep water
on a memorable day. However, the
access adjacent to shallow flats has
trickle down of Cedar Bayou being
been the ticket. With our super-low
closed puts more pressure on the
tides, bait is hanging just off the fringes
Laguna Madre and Baffin. Considering
of the flats, and moving deeper as the
the millions of dollars the coastal
sun comes up. We are still starting out
fishing industry produces for the state,
in shallow water most every day, and
one can not help but wonder why this
progressing deeper as the sun gets
historic pass has not been reopened.
high. Considering that we are generally
Our days start very early around
in knee high water on average to start,
here. Regardless of the moon and tide, heat is our biggest factor
I can not stress enough the importance of being quiet as you step,
when catching trout right now. The bite is early, and does not last
moving slowly, and making long casts. It is much easier to spook fish
too long. For best results, we are getting out early, and hoping
in this depth of water than any other. Be smart, fish smart, and do
to have caught some big trout by 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. After that, it
not give them the advantage of knowing you are there.
becomes somewhat of a grind for quality trout. I typically give my
As the end of summer winds down, so does the charter business
clients the option to switch gears to redfish at this point of the day
for the next couple of months. This does not mean we will be doing
as they will usually play longer than the trout. Most will go for the
less fishing, but does mean that I’ll actually get to keep an occasional
action over the grind, but there are many diehards that will just plug
redfish for the grill, and spend some time planning and plotting for
all day for a chance at glory. My hat is off to all of you!
the arrival of fall.
Deepwater access has been a key player in our best catches. I’m not saying that it has to drop off to 14 feet, but if you can be in area
“Remember, a dead fish can float downstream, but it takes a live one to swim upstream.” ~ W. C. Fields
that consists of a shallow flat tapering to 4-5’ depth, you will tip the odds dramatically in your favor.
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Set ‘em Loose! - Capt. David Rowsey
Texas Saltwater Fishing
September 2009
59
TRICIA’s Capt. Tricia’s Skinny Water Adventures operates out of Port Mansfield, specializing in wadefishing with artificial lures.
Mansfield Report
Despite recordsetting heat, fishing
has remained clear and the levels are still low. The only significant
remains excellent here at Port
before noon most days. Mornings have predictably been best. You need
Mansfield. Incredibly, trout
to hit it early and you want to be right on the edges of color as the wind
and redfish are still smacking
stirs the water. The shallow flats stay relatively clear but after the coolness
topwaters as though it was
of morning passes most of the better fish have retreated to waist-deep
springtime. We have received
potholes and grass beds. Topwaters for as long as conditions allow and
only 1.87” of rain since January
then tails for the remainder of the day has been the plan. Although the
1 and we have just entered a
system is full of juvenile trout, we are still getting lots of nice fish with
Stage-4 drought with the hottest
the occasional five to seven pounder to round things out. We are still
summer on record for many
seeing larger trout prowling the flats so we know they are there, however
parts of the Rio Grande Valley.
catching a true beast this time of year on lures is a challenge.
Regardless, fishing has been as hot as we could ask for, and the only little
difference has been the persistence of stifling, broiler-like wind that hits us
Redfish have been in good supply around waist-deep sand pockets
cloud has been that the entire fishing world seems to be taking advantage
dotting heavy grass. That’s not to say that some shallow tailing activity
of it. Good for them, we just hope it’s good for the fish. Again, for those
hasn’t been going on, but most of those fish have been smaller and
of you who worried that a reduced trout limit would discourage fishing
haven’t held very long, especially on high traffic days. Most consistent
interest, the businesses here might happily disagree.
action remains deeper.
Overall fishing patterns have varied little since last month. The water
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September 2009
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po r t mansfie ld uproots a new supply each day. Single-hooked topwaters have saved
jigs is my favorite. Pausing the lure under
many an outing allowing us to work areas where it can sometimes be
the fish’s nose will often trigger an explosive
tough to get soft plastics through the stuff. The 3/0 Gamakatsu “Live Bait”
strike. Remember - never throw directly at
hook on the front and a 2/0 on the rear fits most
the fish, your offering needs Shallow sand is always a great place for sightcasting.
mid-sized plugs. Remember to use two split rings if the hooks don’t already have one pre-attached. Just the thought of September makes the
to arrive as a meal, not a threat. Landing the lure slightly in front and beyond, then working it close, will bring more strikes.
dog days more tolerable. My hopes are already
This is especially true with topwaters and I find
soaring as water level here is projected to be
that smaller plugs are often the best choice.
a full foot higher by the end of the month
Fish are easiest to spot over shallow sand
according to Texas Coastal Ocean Observation
and of course we need good light. However,
Network (TCOON). A push of Gulf water will spur
the edges of spoil banks can also offer excellent
a lot of activity. I am also hoping that with school
sightcasting opportunity. Seeing the fish is
in session and dove hunters heading to the field
great but learning to key on other signs can
we will see reduced traffic on the water. Last year
be just as effective. Wakes, swirls, mud puffs
we started seeing numbers of impressive trout
and fleeing bait are also sure indicators. Don’t
using the sand flats in mid-September right alongside the reds.
overlook the importance of quality glasses with amber or vermillion lens
Higher water level will bring more sightcasting opportunity. Soft
to increase contrast. A fishing cap with a dark underside on the bill helps
plastics in natural colors are usually the best bet but topwaters can
reduce glare.
certainly work when the fish are schooled and feeding competitively.
The prospects of higher water levels, cooler days, reduced crowds, and
Single fish will always be the most difficult as they tend to spook easily. Yes
an incredible fishery all have me excited. Here’s wishing you a great month
we can take potshots while drifting, but stealthy wading with tails on light
of fishing on the Mother Lagoon.
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September 2009
61
south padre As I write, the wind continues to howl.
Fishing Scene Carl Raines’ first Texas snook- 34 1/2 inches.
How wrong I was in predicting the wind for July and early August. For the last two years, July wind has been the strongest I can recall and thus far August has been no different. How have we been dealing with this? Well, the wind hasn’t stopped us from going but, we did have to make adjustments. Single-hooked topwaters catch far less floating grass and Gamakatsu’s Weighted Spring Lock worm hooks rigged in weedless fashion with soft plastics have been saving our days. I have been fortunate many days this summer to fish where grass was not a big issue, but for large areas around South Cullen bay, from Gas Wells north all the way to Port Mansfield to name a few, the grass has been
pothole, getting blow ups or hooking fish on every cast. The other
a big issue when throwing artificial lures.
two were about thirty yards to their right and casting to no avail. I
I have been fortunate to fish alongside some of the best fishermen
was forty yards furthest right with the same results. The two guys
on the Texas coast this summer and their advanced skills have given
in the middle started inching toward the pair that were catching. As
me opportunity to learn much. Just the other day, I had four guys
they drew near, they too began hooking up. Soon the words “Make
fishing a grassline when two of them made their way to a large
it happen” popped to my mind. By this time the group was having
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September 2009
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ar royo co lo r ado to po r t isabe l a blast, giggling like little kids and betting who would get the next
that our salinity levels are very high
fish. That’s when this story came to mind; if it’s not happening where
due to lack of rain, a wet month would
you are fishing, it doesn’t hurt to try to make it happen. Learn to use
certainly more than welcome. The tides in
your eyes. Scan the water for signs of life below the surface. Look for
September will be much higher; therefore, we will be
bait activity, nervous water, swirls, and do not forget the birds. There
spending time in the shallow back bays. If we are lucky,
is an area I fish frequently that is home to an osprey. There have been
we should see some tailing action from schooling reds. The sand on
countless times when that osprey has showed me where that bait is
the east side should start to hold larger concentrations of fish as the
located. Once near the bait we start catching fish.
general tide level rises and we should start to see an increase in trout
Equally important are your listening skills. Stop fishing for a few minutes, especially on calm mornings, and listen to the surface activity.
Doc’s first Texas snook weighed ten pounds.
Splashes and wakes can show you where the bait is concentrated or perhaps where fish are feeding. All the signs are there; you just have to be observant and willing to pay attention. When you are patient and observant, you will learn every time. The key is to learn something new every time the opportunity arises. Currently, the grass situation is bad and will be like this for a while. You have to choose your spots or change the way you fish. There is plenty of bait in our bay system right now, lots of little trout with a few big ones mixed in. As for redfish action; we have been lucky to find schools from just south of Port Mansfield all the way down to Port Isabel. Our best redfish bites have been occurring between mid-morning and late afternoon. Around this time of the year the water heats rapidly so we have been concentrating in deeper water on the flats. Guts and channels have
catches. Hopefully, we will be lucky and no hurricanes will head our
been producing well for us. Deep potholes have been attracting lots
way. I know there’s nothing we can do to prevent a hurricane, all we
of fish as well. As far as baits, darker colors like purple and chartreuse,
can do is prepare for it. There is something you can do about our
black and chartreuse, and amber have brought us good results and I
catching, and that’s to try to make it happen. Remember to always
expect this will continue well into September.
take advantage of opportunities to learn, fish hard, and fish as much
History shows that September is usually a wet month. Being
as you can.
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fishing Reports and Forecasts from Big Lake to Boca Chica Broug ht to you by. . .
Lake Calcasieu - Louisiana Jeff and Mary Poe • Big Lake Guide Service • 337-598-3268 September is a month of transition. With the arrival of the first few cold fronts, fish begin to slip into their fall patterns. Trout will begin their trek back north and leave their steamy summertime homes in the southern part of the ship channel, along the beach, and around the close rigs. Because of this movement, they should become more plentiful in the lake. Look for them under birds and over all the named reefs. Monster bull reds will be schooling in the surf and at the jetties. These fish are super strong and willing to eat just about anything in the box. Try your favorite topwater on the beach for some serious action on these giants. Smaller, edible reds will be available in the lake around all the cuts coming out of the marshes. This is your last shot at tripletail. With the onset of cooler weather, they will migrate back to warmer waters, and we won’t see them again until next summer. Best bait is a live shrimp under a popping cork. If shrimp aren’t available, try a glow H&H Beetle on the lightest jighead you have.
Trinity Bay - East Bay - Galveston Bay James Plaag - silverkingadventures.com - 409 935 7242 “Trout fishing has been generally good,” James says. “Of course, it’s best when the wind isn’t cranking out of the south and southwest. We are fishing all deep stuff, eight to fourteen feet of water. Most of the bite has been on Bass Assassin Sea Shads in dark colors like red shad and morning glory. When the currents are running strong, we’re using three eighths ounce heads, quarter ounce when the tide is not as strong. There is a good combination of trout and oversized reds out in the middle right now. Most of the action is along the ship channel, on the humps and well pads close to deep water. I look for the inshore action to stay pretty much the same in September. We may get some birds working more often, especially later in the month. I did make a circle out in the gulf today. Wind finally laid down a little bit. Water seems to be clearing and I saw some signs that make me think the tarpon will show up sometime soon. We’ll need some lighter winds to get a really good shot at the silver kings.”
Jimmy West - Bolivar Guide Service - 409 996 3054 As is often the case, the wind and weather are the most important factors affecting the bite in Galveston lately, reports Jim. “We are whackin’ ’em pretty good every time the wind lays, but when it’s windy, it’s tough. We are fishing out in the middle and need the light winds to let the water clear up enough to function. Hannah’s and Deep Reefs are holding solid fish, both trout and reds. The birds will lead you to the trout, but slicks and mud stirs are a better bet to indicate the schools of reds. Some of the schools of reds seem to have hundreds, maybe thousands of fish in them. The herds in the back of the bay, where it’s four and five feet deep, seem to have a higher percentage of keepers. Those nearer the ship channel, in eight to ten feet of water, are mostly oversized fish. You can catch ’em on whatever you want to throw. Topwaters are the most fun way, according to most people, of course. In fact, every time it gets calm, drifting and throwing She Dogs over scattered shell is producing decent numbers of trout, up to six pounds.” 64
September 2009
West Galveston - Bastrop - Christmas Chocolate Bays Randall Groves Groves Guide Service - 979 849 7019 - 979 864 9323 Randall reports that fishing is pretty good around the San Luis Pass area on recent trips, especially for redfish. “Redfish have been saving us for the most part. The persistent low tide makes it easier to locate the fish. On most days, we’re able to find pods tailing and that allows us to take easy limits. We’ve been catching them on both topwaters and soft plastics. Pearl Skitterwalks have been the best tops to throw and the roach colored Norton Bull Minnow has been the most productive soft plastic. I think this pattern of fishing shallow areas for the reds will only get better as we roll into September. The trout fishing is okay, particularly when the winds are lighter and we can get at the fish in open water. I will be looking for the fish to move over to the scattered shell either late in September or early October. Then the trout fishing should pick up nicely. Overall, the fishing is good, despite some water clarity issues caused by higher than normal south winds. Usually, September tides come up a little and that could help the clarity.”
Matagorda Charlie Paradoski - Bay Guide Service - 713 725 2401 Charlie mentions several good options for September in the Matagorda area, starting with the surf. “We still want to be in the surf this month if we can get at it. The improved currents and tide levels seem to keep the water pretty most of the time, even in moderate winds. You can fish out there quite a few days if you can stand the waves, and the fish are bigger on average. Best lures along the beach are topwaters usually. Of course, I’ll also be looking to get at the midbay reefs in East Bay if the winds are light enough. The other thing that works well over there in the lighter winds is drifting around the reefs over scattered shell with topwaters. Much of the time, we throw Bass Assassins for at least part of the day too. Sweet pea has been a good color for me lately, since we have a lot of bright sunlight and high salinity levels. The other option is to work the schools of reds this time of year. By September, they are often schooled up by the hundreds, and they can be stalked and caught with a variety of methods, including on fly. That’s a real blast.”
Palacios Capt. Aaron Wollam palaciosguideservice.com - 979 240 8204 Fishing over scattered shell and around deep structures has worked well for finding fish during this hot, dry spell. Solid keeper speckled trout ranging from sixteen to eighteen inches have been found around the wells out in West Matagorda Bay. Free-lining live shrimp and working DOA shrimp and Gulp shrimp have accounted for the best bites. Redfish on the smaller end of the slot (up to twenty two inches) seem to be all over the place along with many others just under the twenty inch mark. Small topwaters such as Super Spook Jrs in bone and chrome/black have been producing good hook-ups. The tripletail bite has
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slowed from last month. We have hung a few around twelve pounds, just not the numbers we had last month. Flounder gigging is starting to heat up, with half-limits of fish from fifteen to eighteen inches showing up on area shorelines. I look for the surf and bird action to start heating up next month. If you catch a calm day with light southeast winds, don’t hesitate to hit the surf for some great fall fishing.
Port O’Connor Lynn Smith - Back Bay Guide Service - 361 983 4434 “In September, we’ll be trying to get into the surf as much as we can. Haven’t been able to do it much this summer with all the wind, but haven’t given up hope on it yet. If the winds do calm some, it could be outstanding, because the schools of fish haven’t been picked on much. If we are forced to fish in the bays more of the time, we’ll target bright sand pockets on grassy flats with good, deep moving water early in the mornings. Super Spook Jrs will be the favored lures for that drill. I’ve been having my best luck lately on the white/chartreuse head. Later, as the sun gets higher and hotter, we’ll target mostly deep shell reefs. For that, we’ll switch over to soft plastics. Bass Assassins in plum/chartreuse and chicken on a chain have been working well lately. I almost always rig them on eighth ounce heads. Only time I use a heavier head much is when I’m in the surf. Then, I’ll switch to heavier heads like quarter and three eighth ounce, mostly because they are easier to cast into the wind.”
Rockport Blake Muirhead Gator Trout Guide Service - 361 790 5203 - 361 441 3894 September normally brings a little higher tides and opens up some new patterns in Rockport area bays, Blake says. “I like to fish sandy shorelines in Aransas and San Antonio bays this time of year, especially if the tides are at their normal mediumhigh to high levels. That will put plenty of water on the grass beds which are pretty tight to the shorelines. We’ll catch more reds on that pattern in Aransas Bay, but in San Antonio the potential for trout is better, with a few big ones usually showing up too. I like to throw topwaters some when fishing that pattern, but usually that bite is better when it cools of in October. Soft plastics and live bait will still be better on most days.” He mentions that dove season may be in jeopardy with the prolonged drought, but that a higher than normal number of teal may show up in the marshes since there’s not much water inland. “It could be a banner teal season. We do need some rain badly though. It will help if we can get a little fresh water in the marshes before the birds arrive.”
Padre Island National Seashore Billy Sandifer - Padre Island Safaris - 361 937 8446 September offers the greatest potential for the largest numbers of the most species of gamefish on the Texas beachfront and nearshore waters of PINS. It is also the peak of hurricane season and susceptible to red tide blooms. Either of these can ruin fishing. The tarpon migration is at its peak during September. Target diving birds and shoals of anchovies for tarpon and other big game species. The finger mullet will migrate out of local bay systems into the surf in September, usually following the first frontal passage, and the redfish will follow them in high numbers. Large schools of large jack crevalle, thousands of skipjack (ladyfish), Spanish and king mackerel, Atlantic bluefish and several shark species both large and small will all be present whenever large shoals of anchovies or menhaden are present. A variety of artificials or live finger mullet will entice all of the above. Whiting will be abundant along with lesser numbers of palometa and Florida pompano on fresh-peeled, dead shrimp and “Fishbites.” Speed limit will return to 25 mph.
Upper Laguna Madre - Baffin Bay - Land Cut Robert Zapata – rz1528@ grandecom.net - 563 1160 Not much has changed from last month, and the fishing has still involved a lot of catching. The water is in great shape in the Upper Laguna Madre and Baffin Just Keep Five
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Bay. The wind has been behaving quite nicely early in the mornings, which has allowed me to spot the schools of redfish along shorelines and spoil islands while the water is still calm. Many of the fish in the schools are oversized, but nobody is complaining about having to fight those brutes. The lures that have been working the best for me are the half ounce gold weedless spoons and light colored Bass Assassins on eighth ounce Spring Lock jigheads. The speckled trout have also been cooperating quite nicely as well. We have been catching many trout between twenty and twenty five inches, with good numbers between twenty five and twenty nine inches. Not many of the trout are reaching the thirty inch mark, but I know that they are out there. Look for them in shallow potholes and along grass lines.
Joe Mendez – www.sightcast1.com - 361 937 5961
Joe has been fishing in the upper reaches of the ULM lately, and finds the trout fishing to be good to outstanding. “I’m targeting deep grass beds and channel edges and catching limits pretty easily most of the time. The water’s really pretty and it’s possible to see the targets, even the deepest ones. I’m using soft plastics when I throw lures, and sometimes live bait too. On the plastics, I normally rig with a quarter ounce jighead. I feel it gives me better control and a more consistent ability to detect the strikes. The September drill should be much the same. I’ll stay within a short run of Bluff’s Landing Marina most of the time.” On that note, he mentions that he’s been launching there almost exclusively and loves it. “They keep the place really clean; there’s plenty of room, there’s always someone around to clean the fish and the bait is consistently available and of good quality. Just today, I was last in line to get bait, but I still got good quality. That’s kind of unusual and a good thing.”
Port Mansfield Terry Neal – terrynealcharters.com – (956) 944 2559 Dog days of summer! It seems that with each passing day South Texas has been setting a new temperature records and along with the heat came high winds. The weather has not stopped the serious fishermen, though. All summer we have seen record numbers of sportsmen showing up, especially on the weekends. The deep grass beds are holding lots of fish and continue to produce limits of nice trout. Tides continue to be very low, pushing the redfish into deeper holes. Tarpon and kingfish continue to tear up tackle just outside the Port Mansfield jetties. Any calm day will result in some of the greatest fishing you could ever hope to experience. Huge schools of baitfish are cruising the nearshore waters within easy reach of most boats. Live bait is a sure bet to get you hooked up to some good fish. Fishing in 100-degree heat is serious business and there have been several reports of heat strokes. Remember to drink lots of WATER! Enjoy the day and please remember to release the fish you do not plan to eat.
Lower Laguna Madre - South Padre - Port Isabel Janie and Fred Petty fishingwithpettys.com – (956) 943 2747 A strip of water along the west shoreline, from the shrimp farm at Holly Beach north to Cullen’s, is socked in with brown tide held in place by heavy southeast winds. The longer this condition persists, the more natural habitat will be lost, mainly the grass beds, which makes fishing difficult in these muddy areas, especially with very low summer tides. Hopefully, the state of Texas will not allow shrimp farm dumping to ruin the beauty and function of our bay. As is normal this time of year, trout and redfish want to feed at night when the temperatures are more moderate and predators will move to deeper holes during the day. We’re limiting or coming close on reds about once a week and settling for one or two per boat other days. Trout, however, are plentiful and limits are easy to come by. Freddy says, “Keep throwing the Gulps under Cajun Thunder cigar corks. Retrieving quickly motivates fish to follow; allowing the bait to drop will get fish to bite.” Precision Tackle gold, weedless spoons are working early before the wind stirs up floating grass.
Texas Saltwater Fishing
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catch of the Doug Waddell Lake Calcasieu - 6 # trout
Enrique & Jose Guillen 8’ 11” bull shark SPI Suzanne Anthony Corpus Christi - trout
Rita Adcock West Galveston Bay - 29” trout
Sergio Saenz Port Mansfield - 32” red C&R
Colby Collins East Galveston Bay 20” trout first keeper
Carl Hooker Baffin Bay - 10# red 66
September 2009
Paul Heughan Port O’Connor - 27 1/4” red
Jeff Brooks and son Josh Baffin Bay - 1st trout
Aubrey Chumchal Sea Center - 28” red C&R
Payson Arnold Laguna Madre - 32” red
McKenzie Martinez red SPI 1st red
Mel Hall Lake Calcasieu - 6.5# trout
Paula Armstrong Corpus Christi - 27” trout C&R
Cayce Causey Shoalwater - 24” trout
Texas Saltwater Fishing
Hayden Mathews Port Mansfield - 27.5” red C&R www.TSFMAG.com
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Broug ht to you by. . .
month! Mark Hoffman San Antonio Bay 27 1/4” trout C&R
Brett Cleveland Baffin Bay - 27” trout
Ross Kennell Rockport - 33” red C&R
Haley Jane Klar Rockport - 26” black drum
Sterling McIntosh Clear Lake - 8# red
Lisa Cheney Rockport - 24” red
Corbin Vines San Antonio Bay 26” red first keeper
Jeremy Bernal Port Aransas 39” red tagged
Steven Devecchio and daughter Jaelyn San Bernard River 38” red C&R
Travis Fowler Sabine Lake - trout
Jack McGinty Port Mansfield - 24 1/2” trout Matthew Peterson Baffin Bay - trout
Please do not write on the back of photos.
Email photos with a description of your Catch of the Month to: Photos@tsfmag.com Emily Lenna Packery Channel - shark C&R Just Keep Five
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Joe Gonzales Surfside - Spanish macherel
Texas Saltwater Fishing
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gulf coast pam johnson Got ideas, hints or recipes you’d like to share? Email them to pam@tsfmag.com or send by fax: 361-785-2844
Kitchen
Short Order Seafood-Chicken Gumbo From the kitchen of Tracey Johnson Everybody loves a steaming pot of seafood gumbo but; who has time to prepare it the old-fashioned way? Here’s a quick and easy alternative we think you’ll find very pleasing. Prep time is about one hour. Yields plenty for five or six hungry adults when served over rice.
Ingredients 1-lb shrimp, 41-60 count, peeled and deveined 10-oz lean smoked turkey sausage 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, trimmed of all fat, diced 3 Tbs flour 1 large onion finely chopped 2 bell peppers seeded and coarsely chopped 28 oz can petite diced tomatoes 14.5 oz can chicken broth 1-½ Tbs Tony Chacere’s Creole Seasoning 16 oz bag frozen cut okra 16 oz bag frozen corn 1 cup water 1/4 tsp fresh thyme leaves, removed from stems and chopped
Method Spray stock pot liberally with olive oil cooking spray. Add the sausage and onion; cook until onions are opaque. Add chopped bell pepper. Stir occasionally and cook until peppers are just starting to get soft. Sprinkle with flour and stir to coat evenly. Cook until the flour begins to brown. Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to boil and add chicken and Tony Chacere seasoning. Return to boil then reduce heat, cover and simmer until the chicken is cooked through, about 5 minutes. Stir in remaining ingredients and return to boil. Simmer until shrimp turn evenly pink, about 5-8 minutes. Serve with rice and enjoy! *You may want to use extra Tony’s, Louisiana Hot Sauce, Tabasco, or a pinch of cayenne pepper as a topping to kick it up a notch. Another favored topping for gumbo is file powder, add only to each serving, adding while cooking can create an undesirable texture.
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All you have to do is catch a really good speck and release it alive‌ and send us some photos! Photos will be judged on photographic quality, artistic merit, demonstration of conservation ethic and, of course, you must include a shot of the release. The winner will be featured on the cover of TSFMag and receive a high-quality rod and reel combo. Four runner-up prizes will also be awarded. Fish must be caught in Texas waters and TPWD regs apply. Make sure your camera is set to capture high-quality images. Photos become property of TSFMag, employees and writers are not eligible. Submit entries via electronic mail to: Everett@TSFMag.com. For more info please email Everett or call 361.550.3637.
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in dex o f adve r tise r s For more information about these advertisers visit: http://www.texassaltwaterfishingmagazine.com/contact_advertisers_product.html Academy Sports + Outdoors................. Back Cover 281-646-5000 www.academy.com
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Saltwater Fishing Clinic...........................................59 361-563-1160 No Website
Allure Guatemala.......................................................70 713-275-4159 www.allureguatemala
Floating Cabin Rentals.............................................69 361-937-0868 www.captaincarl.com
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American Rodsmiths.................................................. 2 713-466-7849 www.americanrodsmiths.com
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Shallow Sport Boats....................................... Cover, 1 956-233-9489 www.shallowsportboats.com
Anchor Marine of Texas................................ Cover, 1 210-599-1415 www.anchormarineoftexas.com
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Shoalwater Boats....................................................... 12 361-983-4134 www.shoalwaterboats.com
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Gulf Coast Marine.......................................Cover, 1, 6 361-937-7800 www.gcmboats.com
South Texas Trolling Motors...................................56 361-939-8970 www.southtexastrollingmotors.com
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Gulf Coast Trolling Motor........................................51 281-481-6838 www.FishingTackleUnlimited.com
Specialty Aluminum Works....................................16 361-575-1477 www.specialtyalworks.com
Blackhawk Specialty Fabrication.......................... 31 512-392-1767 www.blackhawkspecialtyworks.com
Hillman’s Seafood......................................................68 281-339-2897 www.iqfoysters.com
Speedy Stop Solunar......................................Solunar 361-582-5100 www.speedystop.com
Boat Lift Distributors................................................63 800-657-9998 www.liftboat.com
House of Fiberglass...................................................51 361-853-2541 www.houseoffiberglass.com
Stick It Anchor Pins................................................... 41 941-815-6875 www.stickitanchorpins.com
Brown Lures-JB Outdoors.......................................23 281-961-4399 www.brownlures.com
Huff Marine.................................................................27 361-991-0369 www.huffmarine1955.com
Strike Pro America..................................................... 17 409-938-7400 www.strikeproamerica.com
Building Products Plus.............................................39 832-628-0987 www.buildingproductsplus.com
Kroll’s Marine..............................................................55 281-342-4461 www.krollmarine.com
Tackle Box ...................................................................62 361-575-8700 No Website
Busha Boat Works...................................................... 17 979-245-3369 www.bushaboatworks.com
Laguna Graphite Rods.............................................53 979-921-9910 www.lagunarods.com
Texas International Boat Show....................Solunar 561-842-8808 www.SouthWestInternationalBoatShow.com
Century 21 Paramount.............................................53 713-857-2715 www.leaguecityestates.com
LanKat Outdoor Products ...................................... 41 512-299-5903 www.LanKatOutdoorProducts.com
Texas Marine ..............................................................54 409-832-2027 www.texasmarine.com
Coastal Backwater Marine......................................53 409-927-1462 www.coastalbackwatermarine.com
LB Outfitters- Stake Out Stick................................50 409-718-7694 www.stakeoutstick.com
Texas Tackle Factory.................................................21 361-575-4751 www.texastacklefactory.com
Coastline Marine............................................. Cover, 1 713-614-2057 wwwcoastlinemarine.net
Livingston Lures.........................................................25 210-316-1792 www.livingstonlures.com
The Inn At Clarks........................................................71 361-983-2300 www.theinnatclarks.com
Crab Master - Pearl Products..................................68 850-994-4168 www.Crabmaster.net
Luresafety Wrap.........................................................56 713-203-2829 www.luresafetywrap.com
The Oaks at Bentwater............................................. 12 361-790-0001 www.oaksatbentwater.com
D & P Coastal Marine Contruction........................58 979-332-0090 www.piersdecks.com
Majek Boats................................................................... 4 361-991-3102 www.majekboats.com
The Reserve at St. Charles Bay............................... 13 512-804-1455 www.stcharlesbay.com/
D.O.A.............................................................................52 877-362-5873 www.doalures.com
Marine Taxidermy......................................................50 281-736-4982 www.marinetaxidermy.net
The Sportsman................................................ Cover, 1 561-842-8808 www.sportsmanboats.com
Dargel Boat Works..................................................... 61 800-749-2628 www.dargel.com
Mt. Houston Marine..................................................43 281-447-7689 www.mthoustonmarine.com
Third Stone Software................................................29 888-361-2221 www.thirdstonesoft.com
Eagle Claw................................................................... 41 303-321-1481 www.eagleclaw.com
Mud Hole Tackle Supply Company......................63 407-447-7637 www.mudhole.com
TideWater Properties LLC........................................62 512-659-4754 www.tidewatertexas.com
El Pescador Boats.......................................................67 361-983-4832 www.elpescadorboats.com/
Okuma Fishing:Okuma............................................20 909-923-2828 www.okumafishing.com
Tops-N-Towers................................................. Cover, 1 281-474-4000 www.topsntowers.com
Espandre Marine Products.....................................35 281-723-7211 www.espandre.com
PDS Corporate Sales ..............27 713-869-6767 www.pdscorporatesales.com
Trident Funding Corporation.................................58 800-514-6946 www.tridentfunding.com
EZ Drainer....................................................................53 281-224-9766 www.EZdrainer.com
Rockport Marine, Inc.................................................. 8 361-729-7820 www.rockportmarineinc.com
TSFMag Store Page...................................................60 361-785-3420 www.tsfmag.com
Falcon Point Ranch . ................................................. 31 361-785-2191 www.falconpointranch.com
Rods by Pepper..........................................................59 409-737-1136 No Website
TSFMag Subscription Form....................................60 361-785-3420 www.tsfmag.com
Fibertex & Supply......................................................54 361-991-5956 www.stiffypushpoles.com
Ron Hoover RV & Marine Centers...............Solunar 409-935-7101 www.RONHOOVER.com
Wade Aid Enterprises...............................................62 888-923-3243 www.wadeaid.com
Fish Slick LLC...............................................................62 281-481-2929 www.fishslick.com
Roy’s Bait & Tackle....................................................... 3 361-992-2960 www.roysbait-tackle.com
Waterloo Rods............................................................43 361-573-0300 www.WaterlooRods.com
Fisherman Eyewear ..................................................35 510-848-4700 www.zoomeyeworks.com
Russelures...................................................................... 9 281-723-0721 www.russelure.com
Woodee Rods..............................................................35 281-723-4154 www.woodeerods.com
Fishing Tackle Unlimited........................ Back Cover 281-481-6838 www.FishingTackleUnlimited.com
S.W.A.T., Inc..................................................................33 281-296-2929 www.SWATmarine.com
Yeti Coolers................................................................. 13 512-394-9384 www.yeticoolers.com
Fishing Tackle Unlimited Rods................................. 4 281-481-6838 www.FishingTackleUnlimited.com
Safe Floor Company..................................................51 281-435-5904 www.safe-floor.com
Yo-Zuri America, Inc..................................................20 772-336-2280 www.yo-zuri.com
Fish-N-Hunt................................................................... 7 713-856-8003 www.fishandhunt.com
Sail & Ski Center.........................................................21 512-219-2705 www.sailandski.com
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galveston tides & Solunar Table Texas Saltwater Fishing Magazine SEPTEMBER 2009
The BEST Choice‌ Any Place, Anytime!
To find a location near you, please visit us at www.speedystop.com
Tidal Corrections Location Calcasieu Pass, La. Sabine Bank Lighthouse Sabine Pass (jetty) Sabine Pass Mesquite Point Galveston Bay (S. jetty) Port Bolivar Texas City, Turning Basin Eagle Point Clear Lake Morgans Point Round Point, Trinity Bay Point Barrow, Trinity Bay Gilchrist, East Bay Jamaica Beach, Trinity Bay Christmas Point Galveston Pleasure Pier San Luis Pass Freeport Harbor
High -2:14 -1:46 -1:26 -1:00 -0:04 -0:39 +0:14 +0:33 +3:54 +6:05 +10:21 +10:39 +5:48 +3:16 +2:38 +2:39 +2:32 -0:09 -0:44
Low -1:24 -1:31 -1:31 -1:15 -0:25 -1:05 -0:06 +0:41 +4:15 +6:40 +5:19 +5:15 +4:43 +4:18 +3:31 +2:38 +2:33 +2:31 -0:09
For other locations, i.e. Port O’Connor, Port Aransas, Corpus Christi and Port Isabel please refer to the charts displayed below.
Please note that the tides listed in this table are for the Galveston Channel. The Tidal Corrections can be applied to the areas affected by the Galveston tide.
Minor Feeding Periods are in green, coinciding with the moon on the horizon, and the last from 1.0 to 1.5 hrs after the moon rise or before moon set. Major Feeding Periods are in orange, about 1.0 to 1.5 hrs either side of the moon directly overhead or underfoot. Many variables encourage active feeding current flow (whether wind or tidal driven), changes in water temp & weather, moon phases, etc. Combine as many as possible for a better chance at an exceptional day. Find concentrations of bait set up during a good time frame, and enjoy the results.
Te x a s S a l t w a t e r F i s h i n g M a g a z i n e l
w w w. t e x a s s a l t w a t e r f i s h i n g m a g a z i n e . c o m