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Texas Freshwater

Texas Freshwater

by KELLY GROCE :: TF&G Contributing Editor

Feeling the Tarpon Thump

THE SUN WAS STILL BELOW the horizon, and all you could hear was the u ering of a massive menhaden bait ball that pelicans were dive-bombing.

It was a gorgeous early morning at the South Padre Island je ies. I had lost a 100pound tarpon here a couple of days earlier, so I was eager for another shot at silver.

Capt. Brian Barrera threw his cast net and loaded up on menhaden. e bait ball was so thick, ge ing a live-well full of these prime tarpon baits was no problem.

Too bad nding a bait this easy isn’t a daily occurrence. Feeling optimistic with the baits we had onboard, we began shing. We were the rst boat out and nature was still waking up.

We set two rods out the back of the boat with menhaden rigged under a cork. In the meantime, I was on the bow, casting like a mad woman. It’s a good idea to have a variety of live baits and lures in the water, since you never know what avor a tarpon will be desiring. e set-up I was using was a GLoomis E6X extra heavy rod with a Shimano Saragosa 10,000 reel spooled with 60-pound braid, tied to a 100-pound leader. Per usual, we used the tried-and-true tarpon catcher, the D.O.A. Lures Baitbuster. is lure mimics a mullet to a tee and with its heavy weight is great for casting and ge ing to the desired depth quickly. Tarpon enthusiasts in Florida have been relying on this lure for decades, and with the Lower Laguna Madre shery being comparable to that of Southern Florida, we use them too. e pleasant coolness of early morning had burned o , and the south Texas reball in the sky was beaming down on us as I continuously casted my Baitbuster. If you have never experienced it, this is tarpon shing, brutally hot with no wind. We had seen a handful of 120+pound sh rolling on the surface, which kept my enthusiasm high.

“ ere are two large tarpon to the le of the boat,” said Capt. Barrera. He could see these sh thanks to his Humminbird Solix 12 GPS. My lure was already in the water, so I slowed my retrieve way down.

About two seconds later, I felt the unforge able thump-thump of a tarpon. I saw my line moving and set the hook harder than I have on any sh in my life. e jaw of a tarpon is primarily bone so making sure your hook penetrates through is key.

Most tarpon do an explosive jump soon a er being hooked, and this sh followed suit. Berserk is the only word I can use to explain what happened during this epic ba le with this highly respected game sh.

Ten jaw-dropping jumps and multiple rolls all within close proximity of the boat, had Capt. Brian and me hooting and hollering like never before. Although it was exciting, yet organized chaos, each jump felt like it was visually in slow motion. Seeing a 150-pound, seven-foot-long sh come blasting from the water depths is simply incredible. e silver king had exerted so much energy performing these jumps, that it worked out in my favor. I had the armored beast boat-side in only 21 minutes.

As Capt. Barrera got his camera ready, I was connected to this catch of a lifetime by holding its huge lower jaw with my own two hands. is moment is why we count down the days for the arrival of big tarpon in our waters and endure the hours on end of casting under the wicked sun.

Having this intimate moment with one of these perfectly designed and beautifully armored prehistoric beasts is what gets my blood pumping. To see the massive eyeball of a tarpon staring back at you while grasping its rough sandpaper like lower jaw is quite humbling. Makes you wonder all the things this sh has seen while migrating miles upon miles to and from the Yucatan where they reside during winter. A er quick pictures, we released the king back into the wild waters where it belongs.

Once you experience or witness the power of a tarpon, all the hype of this sh becomes blatantly clear. No other species compares when it comes to the pure strength, style, and beauty of a tarpon.

Groce wore this armored beast down after a short 21-minute battle.

Email Kelly Groce at ContactUs@fi shgame.com

EXAS IS A WINGSHOOTER’S PARAdise. There is no state quite like Texas when it comes to opportunities to hunt game birds. From by far the largest population of doves in the nation to pheasants in the Panhandle and quail in the cactus thickets, Texas is a destination for great bird hunting opportunities.

Throw in the fact about ⅓ of the Rio Grande turkeys in North America live here and that we are a major migratory state for ducks, geese, and sandhill cranes, it’s obvious Texas is next-level for wingshooting enthusiasts.

As this issue reaches subscribers and dove season kicks off, we thought we would check in with our friends at CZ-USA and look at a variety of shotguns to match specific hunting needs.

UPLAND BIRDS

Simple, strong, and smooth, CZ’S 612 FIELD is designed to shoot everything from targets to turkeys. Wearing a walnut stock and satin chrome finish, this rugged pump will hunt for generations to come. Capable of shooting 2 ¾ and 3-inch shells and supplied with three chokes, it’s a workhorse shotgun that won’t break the bank.

The CZ 620/628 Field Select is for those who want a light,

classy pump gun to carry in the field. It is built on a gaugespecific 7075 aluminum action, this 20 or 28-gauge pump has a deep glossy blue finish and select-grade Turkish Walnut. A set of interchangeable chokes lets you tune constriction and the full forend and pistol grip help make this lithe shotgun feel good in the hands. With a 28″ barrel, both variants clock in at well under 6 lbs., lightening the load for those full days chasing birds.

CZ’S 1012 uses a gas-less inertia operating system. Instead of redirecting gas from the barrel to run the action, the 1012 uses a spring within the bolt to store energy during the shotgun’s recoil, spending this energy a split second later to rotate and unlock the twin lugs from the barrel extension and withdraw the spent shell.

The major advantage of an inertia system is the less stringent maintenance schedule. Unlike gas guns that need periodic cleaning of the piston and magazine tube, the 1012’s needs are vastly fewer.

During CZ’s field testing, they pushed 1012s to 5,000 rounds without a drop of oil or cleaning of any sort, while experiencing zero parts breakage or malfunctions.

In normal field use, the occasional cleaning and oiling should be more than enough.

Additionally, the gas-less system itself is tuned to run a wider

Redhead Premier Youth

IDEAL FOR SMALL-STATURED SHOOTERS AND YOUTH, THE REDHEAD PREMIER Reduced Length has a shorter length of pull (13 inches instead of 14.5 inches) as well as shorter 24-inch barrels. Only available in 20 gauge, it has all of the quality features expected of a Redhead Deluxe including auto ejectors, Turkish walnut stock, a single selective trigger, and chrome-lined barrels fi nished in weather-hardy black chrome.

Add to that the unparalleled craftsmanship and reliability it’s a great option for a youth shotgun. «

variety of shells — from light-recoiling target loads up to the smoking hot 3″ magnums currently on the market.

1012 SYNTHETIC BOTTOMLAND, with its iconic camo pa ern, is a bird-huntwith its iconic camo pa ern, is a bird-hunt-

1012 Synthetic

ing machine. Using the same uber-reliable ing machine. Using the same uber-reliable inertia semi-auto system that was used to inertia semi-auto system that was used to set a clay shooting World Record in 2019, this auto-loader is built for serious use in the eld. e CZ CTP STERLING’S unique dimensions of this gun create a stock that looks very di erent from most other shotguns, allowing smaller female and youth shooters to keep their heads up and eyes on the target. A four-way adjustable comb helps ne-tune the t and increased pitch makes it much more comfortable to shoulder (around 8 degrees). is classy shotgun is built on the Upland Sterling receiver and is chambered in 12 gauge with 30″ barrels. It handles both 2¾ and 3” shells and comes with ve interchangeable chokes.

guns, allowing smaller female and youth fowl camo pa ern combined with a 3 ½ inch chamber for magnum shotshells. is machine is for making big birds like snow geese fall from the sky. e 612 Magnum Waterfowl ships with ve extended black choke tubes. ed black choke tubes.

Available in 12 gauge with a 3½-inch chamber and a 28-inch barrel, the Magnum Waterfowl is hydro dipped in appropriate camo.

Available in 12 gauge with a 3½-inch chamber and a 28-inch barrel, the Magnum Waterfowl is hydro dipped in appropriate

TURKEY

e CZ 612 MAGNUM TURKEY was created for the turkey woods and since Texas has both a fall and spring turkey season there is ample opportunity. is pump gun comes equipped with two chokes, one gun comes equipped with two chokes, one extra-full to deliver maximum pellets to the kill zone, and one modi ed for upland hunting and steel shot.

It is available in 12 gauge with a 3½-inch chamber and a 26-inch barrel and is hydrodipped in camou age.

SCTP Sterling

WATERFOWL

Built for the goose blind, the CZ 612 MAGNUM WATERFOWL boasts a waterextra-full to deliver maximum pellets to the kill zone, and one modi ed for upland hunting and steel shot.

It is available in 12 gauge with a 3½-inch

A WINGSHOOTING TOUR OF TEXAS

A hunter could take a tour of Texas wingshooting in numerous ecological regions and never repeat species.

Ever heard of the chachalaca?

Texas is the only state to have enough of these unique birds to o er a season, and they are available to hunt in four counties (Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr, Willacy) along the Mexican border.

Swing up the coast a bit and a hunter could enjoy incredible opportunities and large ra s of redhead in Lower Laguna Madre. ese gorgeous ducks are more common here than anywhere else in the Central Flyway and are considered “trophy ducks” for their stunning beauty.

Head due west and hunters nd themselves in the best quail hunting le in America. is year may be tough due to drought conditions but wellmanaged ranches always have bobwhites to hunt here.

A couple of hours north, hunters will nd the largest population of Rio Grande turkeys in America in the Texas Hill Country. Counties like Llano and Kimble are loaded with big, beautiful Rio Grande gobblers, especially along river bo om corridors.

Stop virtually anywhere in the state and get a great opportunity at doves. e San Antonio and Uvalde areas are great for whitewings, but mourning doves are pre y much abundant everywhere.

Traveling north to the Panhandle, hunters will nd ring-necked pheasants, Canada geese, and sandhill cranes.

Texas really is a unique place for those who like to hunt birds and if you choose the right gun, adventure awaits in every corner of the state.

612 Magnum 612 Magnum Turkey could enjoy incredible opporhead in Lower Laguna Madre. ese gorgeous ducks are more common here than anywhere else in the Central Flyway and are considered “trophy ducks” ers nd themselves in the best to drought conditions but wellmanaged ranches always have bobA couple of hours north, hunters will nd the largest population of Rio Grande turkeys in America in the Texas Hill Country. Counties like Llano and Kimble are loaded with big, beautiful Rio Grande gobblers,

UNTING SEASON IS UPON US. WITH dove, early teal, and archery-only for whitetail starting within the dates of this issue, five total months of hardcore Texas hunting are about to ensue. Much of the conversation among hunters will revolve around their rifle, shotgun, muzzleloader, or bow of choice. But there is much more to hunting gear.

It’s the little things, much of it that we wear that can make a key difference in the field.

We reached out to Calcuttaoutdoors.com to learn how their HQ

Out ers line and myriad of products for fall hunting can help hunters prep for the season.

DOVE & SMALL GAME HUNTING VEST

Dove and squirrel hunters take note. is vest can make your life much easier in the eld.

Mesh and canvas material to maximize durability and breathability. Lined game-bag on back. Dual front pockets with shell loops. Mossy Oak® Break-up Country camou age pa ern.

Features include Mossy Oak Break-Up pa ern, two front pockets, and duck canvas.

Dove & Small Game Vest

If you’re not a fan of vests, this product might be for you. It comes with a Mossy Oak® Break Up Country pa ern, a lined rear game bag, four front pockets, a water bo le pocket, and an adjustable buckle that ts 32-52 inch waists.

Dove Belt

DAY PACK

e HQ Hunter’s Daypack is made with a quiet brushed tricot fabric to reduce noise while hunting and PVCbacked Ripstop to ensure durability in the eld. Two large main compartments allow for anything you may need over the day’s hunt. Side water bo le pockets and a front organizer pocket with a daisy chain allow for quick access to your essential gear.

to reduce noise while hunting and PVCbacked Ripstop to ensure durability in the eld. Two large main compartments anything you may need over the day’s hunt. Side water bo le Day Pack

ARCHER’S PACK

e HQ Archer’s Pack revolutionizes treestand hunting. Unlike traditional daypacks, the HQ Archers incorporate full-length zippers that work in concert with dual rear-facing compression straps. is allows hunters not only to pack the HQ Archer’s Pack from the top but to open the entire length of the bag, making organization easier than ever. Instead of traditional mesh water bo le holders, we’ve incorporated side access pockets that unzip to accommodate drink bo les of all sizes without sacri cing critical storage area.

To truly set the HQ Archers Pack apart from all other bags on the market, we’ve developed a MOLLE style quiver a ach-

ment, giving hunters the option of removing the excess weight of the quiver from their bow and relocating it to an easy-access location on their pack. full-length zippers that work in concert with dual rear-facing compression straps. is allows hunters not only to pack the HQ Archer’s Pack from the top but to open the entire length of the bag, making organization easier than ever. Instead of traditional mesh water bo le holders, we’ve incorporated Archer Archer Pack

ment, giving hunters the option of removing the easy-access location on their pack.

POP-UP BLIND

e HQ pop-up blind easily springs open into shape as soon as you pull it from the bag. Double window designs on 3 sides allow for complete views of any incoming game. Once the hunt is done, easily fold up the blind and the blind and take it take it with with you without leaving a trace.

Features include the following:

Compact design for easy transport 60” x 60” Wide base 66” height at center ree large zipper windows ree small zipper windows with removable mesh panels

Great for ri e and bow hunters

Pop-Up Blind

able mesh panels Great for ri e and bow hunters

HUB BLIND

Easy eld setup allows for you to quickly get the blind positioned in the perfect spot you’ve been scouting. e brush straps allow you to brush in your blind to create a seamless backdrop. e tri-fold window design allows you to fully customize how wide or narrow you want the corner windows open, great for both the rearm and bow hunter.

Features include the following: 58” x 58” x 67” Height

Customizable Full Corner Windows

Backpack Carry Bag get the blind positioned in the perfect spot you’ve been scouting. e brush straps allow you to brush in your blind to create a seamless back-

FOLDING STOOL

e HQ Out ers Folding Hunting Stool is easy to set up and carry to your favorite hunting spot. Constructed with heavyduty camou age nylon fabric and a sturdy 19mm steel frame. Features underseat zippered storage and a sturdy carry strap for easy hands-free transport.

favorite hunting spot. Features understorage and a sturdy carry strap for easy Folding Stool

PERFORMANCE FLEECE BALACLAVA

is HQ Out ers® eece balaclava is made from 250 GSM eece to keep you warm and comfortable on those cold days. Mid-weight fabric wicks Mid-weight fabric wicks moisture. Adaptable moisture. Adaptable construction allows construction allows the face shield to be the face shield to be raised and lowered raised and lowered as needed. Mossy as needed. Mossy Oak® Terra Gila patOak® Terra Gila pattern provides versatile tern provides versatile concealment. e concealment. e face shield can be face shield can be raised and lowered as raised and lowered as needed. It’s made needed. It’s made of 250 GSM eece perfect for those cold & windy days and helps wick moisture to keep you warm. to keep you warm.

Balaclava

DOVE DECOY (4 PACK)

Realistic dove decoys with built-in metal clip for easy mountmetal clip for easy mounting. True-to-life form and ing. True-to-life form and colors will help bring colors will help bring doves in. Clips on doves in. Clips on the bo om of the the bo om of the decoy allow

for placement on branches, limbs, or wire fences. Four doves per pack.

PERFORMANCE CAMO HOODIE

Featuring Mossy Oak Original Bo omland, this HQ Out er Hoodie Bo omland, this HQ Out er Hoodie blends classic looks with new features. A blends classic looks with new features. A 250GSM weight eeced back Polyester 250GSM weight eeced back Polyester makes for a warm and comfy feel while the makes for a warm and comfy feel while the additional hidden accessory pocket locatadditional hidden accessory pocket located in the main kangaroo pouch makes for ed in the main kangaroo pouch makes for great added discreet storage. protect yourself is to wear blaze orange. It is required on most public land in Texas but it is not required for example in Texas on private land. Wear it anyway. boys at deer camp might give you grief, but deal with it. like a beacon and someone wearing a full

STAYING SAFE

While gearing up for hunting season, please consider safety.

Most hunters are smart, ethical, and sober-minded but annually upwards of 1,000 hunters are shot in incidents in the United States and Canada annually with around 75 of those fatal. is is according to the International Hunter Education Association.

Considering there are millions of hunters in the woods those numbers are low but in our opinion, one is too many, much less one thousand. e number one thing you can do to protect yourself is to wear blaze orange. It is required on most public land in Texas but it is not required for example in Texas on private land. Wear it anyway.

We do.

We know it’s not fashionable and the boys at deer camp might give you grief, but deal with it.

Blaze orange shines through the woods like a beacon and someone wearing a full jacket and cap is easily seen. e chances of someone shooting you and thinking you’re a deer or some other game goes down dramatically when wearing blaze orange. An HQ blaze orange beanie at a minimum is a great choice but wearing that as well as a vest might just save your life. at’s why you should not only invest in your hunting gear but hunting safety as well. Check out calcu aoutdoors.com to gear up for the hunt.

Camo Hoodie

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