Only $3.95 January 2010
Tide Predictions & Solunar Feed Times Inside!
NEW MODEL 24’ Sport Shallow Sport Boats have earned a reputation as the ultimate shallow water fishing machine over the past three decades. Offering 10 different models from 15’ to 27’, every angler can find their perfect boat. See for yourself at WWW.SHALLOWSPORTBOATS.COM PO BOX 934 PORT ISABEL, TX 78578
956.233.9489 Tops-N-Towers top quality aluminum accessories are backed by a liretime warranty. We specialize in the industry’s most innovative options for boat towers, tops, platforms, as well as hunting and truck accessories. Check out our new designs at WWW.TOPSNTOWERS.COM 2321 NASA ROAD ONE SEABROOK, TEXAS 77586
281.474.4000
Come see us at the Houston Boat Show Booth #4000
The Mod V Line
Coastline Marine is the new dealership in Seabrook, TX. Connected to Tops-N-Towers we are here for your shallow water boat and all shallow water accessories. Come see our showroom and all our ‘08 models in inventory. For more information log onto WWW.COASTLINEMARINE.NET 2321 NASA ROAD ONE SEABROOK, TEXAS 77586
281.291.0101
The Classic Line Anchor Marine has been providing top rate service and parts to Texas since April 1989. We look forward to helping new customers we have yet to serve! For more about us visit WWW.ANCHORMARINEOFTEXAS.COM 5560 NORTH LOOP 1604 EAST SAN ANTONIO, TX 78247
210.599.1415
Gulf Coast Marine has had the same family ownership and “World Class Service” since 1954. TEXAS LARGEST SALTWATER BOAT SELECTION, with fifteen boat lines cover from the skinny shallow to the Gulf and six outboard lines to choose from. Learn more about the company at WWW.GCMBOATS.COM 10121 S. PADRE ISLAND DRIVE CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78418
800.622.2449
FACTORY RIGGED WITH YAMAHA OUTBOARDS.
The Sport Line Home to the Legendary Shallow Sport, The Sportsman is recognized as one of the Top 100 Dealers in the nation and one of only 11 Marine Certified Dealerships in Texas. See for yourself what sets us apart... Visit our award-winning Sales and 5-Star Service facility today. WWW.SPORTSMANBOATS.COM 1985 W BUS HWY 77 SAN BENITO, TX 78586
956.339.5123
With over 60 Years of Fishing and Rod Building Experience... We feel that our action design, the best graphite material and components available today, allows Fishing Tackle Unlimited to manufacture a rod series that stands up to today’s fishing demands to help you catch more Fish.
FACTS:
• •
Genuine “Fuji” Reel Seat Genuine “American Tackle Co.” Solid Titanium Frame
•
Double Footed Guides Genuine “REC” Solid Titanium Double Footed
•
Recoil Guides “Toray” Highest Modulus
NOTE: Titanium is 40% Stronger and 60% Lighter than any other material.
Graphite available
•
100% Properly Spined Blank
the mostd talkerod aboutt on ou ter. the wa
12800 Gulf Freeway @ Fuqua, Houston, TX 77034
8933 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX 77024
281-481-6838
713-827-7762
Available in: Spinning and Casting Models. Go online for full details…
www.fishingtackleunlimited.com
4
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
CONTENTS
EDITOR AND PUBLISHER Everett Johnson
JA N UA RY 2 010 Volume 19 No. 9
Everett@tsfmag.co com Everett@tsfmag.com GENERAL M MANAGER
10
Pam Johnson
FEATURES
Pam Pam@tsfmag.com
10 New Decade - Same Fish 14 Tongue-In-Cheek... 18 Some Things to Think About 22 Blah 26 Tricks, Tips, and Thoughts...
Mike McBride Kevin Cochran Billy Sandifer Martin Strarup Chuck Uzzle
18 34
Coastal Birding Science and the Sea Let’s Ask The Pro Fly Fishing Offshore Conservation TPWD Field Notes Kayak Fishing According to Scott Youth Fishing Every Man’s Offshore
Billy Sandifer UT-Marine Science Institute Jay Watkins Casey Smartt Bobby Byrd/John Cochrane CCA Texas Todd Neahr Scott Null Scott Sommerlatte Aaron Cisneros Ruben Villarreal
42
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 Shellie Gray David Rowsey Capt. Tricia Ernest Cisneros
REGULARS
76
06 50 52 72 74 76 80
ADVERTISING MANAGER Pam Johnson Ads@tsfmag.com
WHAT OUR GUIDES HAVE TO SAY 54 58 60 64 66 68 70
Shirley Elliott Shirley@tsfmag.com
Office: 361-785-3420 Cell: 361-550-9918
DEPARTMENTS 19 28 30 34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48
BUSINESS / ACCOUNTING MANAGER BUSIN
NATIONAL SALES REPRESENTATIVE Bart Manganiello Bartalm@optonline.net CIRCULATION Debbie Dugan Cir@tsfmag.com DESIGN & LAYOUT GRAPHICS BY DESIGN Stephanie Boyd Office: 361-785-4282 stephanie@graphicsbydesign.biz production@graphicsbydesign.biz SUBSCRIPTION – PRODUCT SALES Debbie Dugan ADDRESS CHANGED? Email Store@tsfmag.com Texas Saltwater Fishing Magazine is published monthly. Subscription Rates: One Year (15 months for 12 months; Get Three Free. Offer valid until 2.28.10)
$25.00, Two Year $45.00
E-MAG (electronic version) is available for $12.00 per year. Order on-line: WWW.TSFMAG.COM MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: Texas Saltwater Fishing Magazine Attn: Subscriptions P.O. Box 429, Seadrift, Texas 77983 * Subscribers are responsible for submitting all address changes and renewals by the 10th of the prior month’s issue. Email store@tsfmag.com for all address changes or please call 361-785-3420 from 8am - 4:30pm. The U.S. Postal Service does not guarantee magazines will be forwarded.
Editorial TSFMag Spotlight New Tackle & Gear Fishing Reports and Forecasts Catch of the Month Photo Gallery Gulf Coast Kitchen Index of Advertisers
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.
ABOUT THE COVER Ron Shepherd made the trek to Calcasieu recently to fish with Capt. Bruce Baugh. He says the fishing was awesome. TSFMag congratulates Ron for practicing CPR with his trophy. (Will Drost photos)
Periodical class permit (USPS# 024353) paid at Victoria, TX 77901 and additional offices. Only $3.95
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Texas Saltwater Fishing Magazine, Inc., P. O. Box 429, Seadrift, TX 77983.
January 2010
Tide Prediction s & Solunar Feed
Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Times Inside!
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
5
New Year Challenges and Opportunities The approach of a new year means many things for fishermen. The middle of the Texas winter means hardcore speckled trout aficionados will be bundling in all their gear to impersonate the Michelin Man and seek a lifetime fish. I’ll be there, numb fingers and nose, fishing hard and hoping. If hard work and suffering heighten the trophy experience; we should have all the right ingredients working for us. The excitement and merriment of boat and fishing shows are always a highlight, if for no other reason than checking out what’s new from boat and tackle manufacturers and reuniting with friends we seem only to catch up with in these venues. Offshore enthusiasts will be busy with maintenance chores they put off during warmer months and anxiously checking long range forecasts in hope of dashing out for a quickie state water red snapper run. Kayakers will enjoy the solitude they dream of all year while prowling the flats for voracious winter reds. Finding eager schools that can number in the hundreds and having them all to oneself is definitely one of the benefits of braving the elements. If I am ever to learn fly-fishing it will likely be in such a target-rich scenario where almost every presentation can draw a strike. Last year had everybody buzzing about the probability of a severe freeze descending upon coastal Texas. Seems lots of folks believe freezes follow hurricanes and Ol’ Ike certainly was a dandy. But if you ask me, I am more worried this year. After all the weather extremes of 2009 I shudder to think this could be the year. January has a bad reputation for this so keep your fingers crossed. We had snow last Friday here in Seadrift which is a very rare event and the mercury fell to 25-degrees after the skies cleared. This was a record-setter for the date and I hope not to see any other records toppled in the next couple of months. Our mid-coast seatrout fishery could hardly stand such a devastating blow. After being blessed with twenty mild winters, I know it’s asking for a lot, but I’m praying for several more to aid the rebound of this fishery. The new year always brings hope of greater economic fortune and we could certainly use a lift right about now. If the economic forecasts and politicians can be believed, we have seen the worst. I’m holding this right alongside my dream that everybody will catch a ten pound trout this winter. But if we can’t have both, I’ll accept the economic recovery and we can all get our big fish next year. I’ve been waiting fifty-seven years for that trout so another year will just make it that much more special. We need the economic boost right now, though. From a personal perspective, 2010 is going to be a very busy year. I have been appointed to TPWD’s Coastal Resource Advisory Committee and will also begin serving as a representative of recreational fishing interests in the effort Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has named the Basin and Bay Stakeholders – Environmental Flows Committee. Reserving river flow in the interest of promoting sustainability of our bays and estuaries is a new chapter in Texas water resource management and one that all coastal fishermen should become involved in. I feel truly honored in these appointments and am excited to become involved in both as each has very significant potential to shape the future of coastal fisheries and recreational angling in Texas. I pray that I can live up to the expectation of all the fine folks who recommended my appointments. Our resources and angling traditions deserve our finest stewardship to insure they are passed to future generations in better shape than we received them. em. Happy New Year!
6
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
76 ) $ !"
7613 SPID Corpus Christi, TX 78412
www.roysbait-tackle.com
$)'% * $ +%"*) %$ $ $ "
' $%"% . ' $ ()( $%)( , ()( ) + ' .%* "" 5 # ) .6' # %' / )6( , . , + "%& '%&*"( %$0 $ $ # $) .() #1' +%"*) %$ '. ) $%"% . $ $ ' )% +% ) ( ((" ( Why tangle with anything else?
$)'% * $ *' #%%) () %() *' " "( + ' %) $ ' $ ( & *" . % ( $ )% ' $ $ ") () ' ) $ '%* ' " *) ) $!( )% ) " $0 ' *' " ). $ $ # $) ' +%"*) %$ '. ' !) '%* $ ' $ .%*6' ((*' 3' ) '%# ) %-4 ( "!. (#%%) ) %$2 ) ' ) ( ' ( . ' ' . '
361-992-2960
New 220 Bay-Kat SpeciďŹ cations: Length.............................................. 21’7â€? Beam................................................... 94â€? Persons...................................................6 Capacity .....................................1750 lbs. Horsepower ........................................225 Displacement .............................1700 lbs.
Features: 5 "(# &(&*$ "!' 5 " . /0&*$ "!' 5 (1)&*1) 1.* . 5 ((+* 1"( *' 5 * "!' .+*0 0+. $" 5 +, , (" 0 5 .+*0 " . &02"((/ 5 .$" " . 0+. $" +3 5 +*/+(" 2 .+*0 &0" /0&*$ ( 0#+.) 5 (1)&*1) " *&*$ +/0 2 -0 !++(".
8
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
It is a new day for Explorer Boats... now proudly manufactured by Dargel Boats, Inc. The same great hull design now crafted with the quality of construction and attention to detail you have come to expect from Dargel Boats since 1937. Visit www.exploreratsboats.com for a dealer near you.
Explorer Boats by Dargel Powered with Suzuki Outboards
New Decade - Same Fish No sound can drive me into fetal
Blackberry instead. Might as well glance
fishing, and had to wonder if I was really
position quicker these days than that
at an email or two. I did, and with a free
all that much better now with all the
of a magazine deadline whooshing by.
hand reached into my new Yeti ice chest
“stuff” we have today. A poor workman
Our esteemed and beloved editor (who
for another Starbucks can. I marveled
always blames his tools, but I don’t think
I sometimes refer to as our editorhole)
that the same ice was there from three
we have that excuse anymore.
fires me at least every other month for
days ago. I subconsciously hit the Power
it. But trust me, after talking about the
Pole remote to drift closer to some tails
arrived where I wanted to go by GPS, and
same fish for ten years now, the question
waving seductively near a manicured
laughed at how we used to put reflective
increasingly begs, “So what in the
duck blind; another scene that looked
stakes in the water and navigated by
heck can you possibly write about this
like an embellished painting at a CCA
night with speedometer, stopwatch and
month? What topic hasn’t been trampled
auction. Another osprey crashed, and
spotlight. You had to actually know your
to nausea and what story angle might
away went another mullet on a one
areas by line ups, and when visibility
actually prove worthy of print?”
way trip to the stripping post. What a
was poor, by pole or foot probes. That,
While struggling yet again for
I thought about how effortlessly I had
contradiction; it was high-tech wishing
of course, was after you tried to get
something “fishy” to write about, I
watching low tech production, and those
the outboard oil mixture correct and
figured nothing could beat being in the
“low tech” ospreys were easily getting
hoped you didn’t smoke like a Japanese
actual setting. So with laptop aboard
their limits without any new and improved
destroyer or foul the plugs by getting too
I sputtered towards an isolated flat for
gadgets on sale near you.
heavy handed.
some divine inspiration. I set up a little
It dawned on me how silly all of this
I remembered how, before each
waterborne “office” of sorts; a cardboard
was as compared to how the guys before
trip, hours upon hours were spent on
box duct taped into a makeshift
us had it. Although I was where humans
the art of perfectly sharpening hooks,
sunscreen, with one ice chest for a chair
could hardly access just a few decades
especially new ones because they were
and another to glide the mouse. The
ago, I was painlessly there and also with
as dull as thumbnails out of the box.
whole episode turned into an interesting,
just about every convenience known
Now I just reach over and grab a box of
if not comical, observation.
to man. I started thinking back to even
Gamakatsu’s and hope I don’t breath on
when I first started getting serious about
them too closely.
There I was, in nature’s private realm with no other humans in sight,
Being sore after
surrounded only by sights
fishing was a given,
and sounds of “Planet Earth”
as those old seven-
proportions, yet right below this
and-a-half foot
panoramic view an out-of-place
fiberglass popping
computer screen was winking
rods made quick
at me from deep inside its
work of reducing
cardboard lair like the blue eye
back muscles to
of an alien Cyclops. I glanced
raw sinew after
away from its evil stare just in
a day of two-
time to watch an osprey nail an
handed casting. I
unaware mullet, then winced as
don’t know how
I envisioned what was going to
we ever felt a fish
happen to its still flopping flesh
on those things,
after the raptor landed on its favorite pole by the shoreline. I couldn’t get the internet to connect, but no worries. I
much less with A poor workman blames his tools, but I don’t think we have that excuse anymore.
just checked the radar on my 10
January 2010
17-pound rubber band line spooled on 5:1 ratio reels. Now, with recoil
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
guide rods like Fishing Tackle Unlimited
hypothermia as did brittle
offers (which probably weigh what the
yellow jackets with ridiculous
line used to), and braided line on nine
amounts of wet cotton
bearing auto-casting/anti-backlashing
stuffed inside.
reels, the only thing left to be sore is your pride if you still can’t feel a bite. I thought about how a tail was really
Besides all of the conveniences we have now, I especially remember how
a tail and that a Kelley Wiggler shrimp
you knew where fish were
in strawberry and white and was all you
and what they were eating
needed. Now simple primary colors have
because you went out and
given way to a kaleidoscope of confusion,
fished for them in the water.
and of course, the fish must know we
Now most people just fish
are confused as well. We have to be,
for them on the internet and
because now we have genuine artificial
pair up reports with full-
shrimptails that smell like a dead goat
color aerial imaging down to
and water activated topwater lures that
pothole level.
croak like a croaker.
Go fishing and learn by efforts spent.
There is no doubt that we
Riding out a norther with a five gallon
where.” For the most part, that is not for
need most of good inventions out there
sale. What is for sale is fuel, probably
bucket over your head was standard
today. If nothing else, we’d look like
the best investment towards being a
because you never knew exactly when
outdated goobers at the ramp and be
“fishermen” as we could make. All I can
one was going to hit. Actually, that may
able to blame bad days on not shopping
say is; many men before us were great
not be so much better today, as most
like we should. However, although
fishermen and caught many great fish
weathermen still seem preoccupied with
we might be able to buy some better
without most of the tools we have today,
mixing their own oil, but at least now I
results, we will never be able to buy skill.
and the osprey’s catch ratio will always
can pull up radar on a phone. Speaking
Skill will always be “knowing when to be
be better than ours. Let’s put that in
of phones, I well remember having to march five miles out of a mosquito laden
our Google tool bar and Gulp on it. Go fishing and learn by efforts spent. The
Skill will always be knowing when to be where.
birds would be proud. Ooops, there went that whooshing noise again.
marsh on one occasion
Mike Mcbride
Contact
and across a sun baked San Luis Pass Bridge on another, all the while scrounging for road change to feed a payphone that might or might not work and try to call a number
Mike McBride is a full time fishing guide based in Port Mansfield, Tx., specializing in wadefishing with artificial lures.
you might or might not remember. Well, at least now I can Google up walk-out directions. The elements were actually life threatening before products like SIMMS, as leaky rubber boot footed waders did about as much to ward off Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
11
12800 Gulf Fwy @ Fuqua Houston, TX 77034 281-481-6838
8933 Katy Fwy Houston, TX 77024 713-827-7762
7613 So Padre Island Dr Corpus Christi, Texas 78412 361-992-2960
For a complete listing of our dealers log onto our website! 361.573.0300, 0300 805 5 S. S Bridge B id St., St Victoria, Vi t i TX w www.WaterlooRods.com ww WaterlooRo W t l R
12
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
13
Tongue-In-Cheek Additions to Some Relevant Definitions Author’s Note: The following italicized definitions are quoted
unfortunate demise of said prized fish.
from a humorous and entertaining book by Henry Beard and
Catch and Release: 1. Term for stretch of public stream
Roy McKie called Fishing: A Dictionary For Constant Anglers,
where fish caught must be released alive. 2. Term for stretch
Weekend Waders, and Artful Bobbers.
of private stream where trespassers caught are released after a lecture, a series of threats, and a brief introduction to a large
Advice: Two or more pieces of contradictory angling
dog. It’s also an activity, too little practiced, known to have the
information contained in a single phrase or sentence. Some
power to preserve and enhance populations of fish, which have
experts assert that daytime fishing within 48 hours after a full
no voice with which to lobby in support of the activity.
moon is often tougher than normal. I believe the opposite, and have documented many fine outings one or two days
Rob Tortorice released this lifetime-best trout after we took several pictures. Later, he had one of the images converted into a painting. Doing so helped him record the memory without killing the fish for a skin mount.
after a full moon, including catches of individual trophy trout up to 31 inches, days with numerous big trout (as many as 11 over 27 inches) and sessions with up to 200 trout and reds. Thanks to those who choose to stay on the couch because it’s a day or two after a big moon; you leave more space on the bays open for those of us who fish! Angling: The art of fishing, as practiced by those who seek to catch fish not for profit or for food, but rather for the sport involved. The commonly accepted source of the term “angling” is the ancient Indo-European word, anka, meaning “hook” or “to fish with a hook,” but several other words are likely candidates, including enka (“unwise expenditure” or “useless task”); unglo (“one who is tormented by insects”); onku (“loud or frequent lamentation”); angi (“to deceive”); inkle (“to repeat a foolish act”); onklo (“possession by demons”); and angla (“love of pointless suffering”). Though it applies to both bait soakers and lure chunkers, this definition is clearly most
Croaker, Grouper, Snapper: 1. Informal names for three
relevant to those of us who stubbornly choose to use artificial
groups of saltwater game fish. 2. Informal names for three basic
lures exclusively.
types of anglers: the noisy croakers, who cough and clear their
Artificial: Type of synthetic bait rejected by a finicky fish
throats when absolute silence is essential; the overly convivial
because it is too large or too small, or because it has the
groupers, who borrow your lures, sample your lunch, and help
wrong shape, bears the wrong coloration, or makes the wrong
you lose fish during netting; and the mean-spirited snappers,
motions in the water.
who respond to an angler’s casual remark about the weather
This one confuses me a little. I know
what an artificial lure is, but what’s that part about making the
with a pointed remark that he go smoke a fish. It is my sincere
wrong motions in the water? Does it mean that sometimes
hope that your guide is neither of the three; may he be simply a
a particular lure won’t work because someone is using it
Skipper who provides you a direct connection to a Whopper.
incorrectly? Don’t say it!
Fish: The only living creature in any given stretch of stream,
Camera: Small, but quite heavy object used by anglers to
river, lake or bay that doesn’t have a hook in it and isn’t smoking
store small amounts of water and a canister of spoiled film.
a pipe. Aforementioned creature may also be the only one in
Most cameras today, being digital, don’t have ruined film in
the area that doesn’t automatically flee from a good spot just
them. Some are even waterproof, but more importantly, the
because some boaters pass by.
vast majority are left in the boat by waders (or worse yet in
Hot Spot: 1. Place on any given stream or lake, usually
the truck by drifters) and are therefore useless in the timely
known only to the locals, where fish can be found. 2. Place in
documentation of the catch of a prized fish, resulting often in the
the center of the palm of the right hand of locals where money
14
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
may be placed to help find 1. See: www.
that says there
fishbaffinbay.com for details related to
are two kinds of
Lucky Sevens Club.
fishermen: the ones
Habitat: Place where a particular species of fish was last week. This indicates that, in Texas, habitat is
in our group, and the ***holes. Solitude: The
dwindling, since some species of fish are
state of being closer
noticeably scarce in places where they
to nature than to the
were once pleasantly abundant. See:
nearest flush toilet.
spotted seatrout in the Coastal Bend.
Clearly the opposite
Knot: A tangle with a name. Should
of the noisy state
not be confused with a backlash, which
of affairs on a
is a more elaborate tangle with fancier
Saturday morning
names, many of which cannot be
in the hour following
printed here.
the timed release
License: Permit issued upon payment
January is statistically the author’s best month for catching trout exceeding twenty nine inches.
of a line of painted
of a modest fee that allows fishermen
racing boats carrying two goggled
inches is actually 30 inches, at least
to lose lures in a specified area. The
tournament anglers each.
for speckled trout anglers, for whom 7
permit also justifies the burning of vast
Wading: The most common means
pounds is also 10 pounds. For redfish
volumes of fossil fuels and investment in
through which a dry-fly fisherman is
tournament anglers, particularly those
numerous gadgets and instruments, most
transformed into a wet-fly fisherman. It’s
who specialize in placing copious
of which are useless in the hands of the
also the reason so many of us who love
chunks of ice in a livewell, 28 ½ inches
untrained. It also provides the wicked
it are willing to “climb out of a perfectly
is actually 28 inches.
more opportunities to tell creative lies
good boat”. In fact, we don’t believe
to their spouses, sometimes concealing
there is such a thing as a perfectly good
secret trips to gentlemen’s clubs.
boat. To those of us who love wading,
by insect about to deliver one. There are
a boat is merely a necessary evil we
two more similar sounds uttered by Texas
fish that an angler can take in a day. This
purchase, maintain and operate to get us
coastal waders: Kablooj…and DeDoink!
number varies from place to place and
where we need to be in order to do what
species to species, but like the speed of
we really love, which is to climb out of a
light, it is a largely theoretical restriction
perfectly good boat.
with little practical application. Note here that lowering a limit gives the number
Yard: Unit of measurement. In angling, 17 inches. Additionally, 27
greater practical application, hence a more significant
Scott Enderlin doing his part to preserve and sustain the trophy trout fishery.
angler waiting for a bite. 2. Sound made
Kevin Cochran
Contact
Limit: Maximum number of a particular
Zzzzzzz: 1. Sound made by patient
impact on the fish. See: red drum in Texas. Lure: Anything used to attract fish. There are basically two kinds: those fishermen swear by, and those they swear at. Corkys are both at the same time! This reminds me also of the old adage Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
15
FHC - Flake Hot Chartreuse
NEW FOR 2010 MaxRap 13 TM
MXR13 HP - Hot Pink
NEW SIZE & COLOR X-Rap Walk 11 ®
$
1899
XRW11
$
1099
BNC - Bone Chartreuse
NEW SIZE & COLOR X-Rap Walk 09 ®
OGO - Orange Gold Orange
NEW SIZE X-Rap SubWalk 07 ®
TM
XRW09
$ 49
XRSB07
9
$ 49
9
CH - Chartreuse
NEW FOR 2010 Live Ballyhoo Hybrid 11 TM
LBHH11
$
1899 BL - Blue
NEW FOR 2010 Live Ballyhoo Hybrid 07 TM
LBHH07
$ 49
9
BN - Black Nickel
NEW FOR 2010 Spark Point Treble Hook TM
589 - Fire Tiger
7545BNPP - Size 2,4,6
NEW FOR 2010 Kickin’ Stick 12 TM
BSTD - Blue Steel Shad
NEW FOR 2010 Live Kickin’ Shad 03 LKSD03
$ 99
3
KST12
$ 99
9
$ 99
2
www.academy.com
Academy stocks a complete selection of Fisherman Eyewear polarized sunglasses to allow you to enjoy the outdoors.
19 BLD: Brown Lens
35 Years of protecting your most important asset on the water — your vision.
14 AO: Copper Lens
Sailfish: Green Mirror Lens
19 MTL: Gray Lens
Polarized sunglass lens choices to cover all your fishing needs.
Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
17
Some Things to Think About Since I run some distance offshore
you are already a done deal and fishing
grinder. We had to reschedule their
regularly in my 25-foot Panga with only
before everyone else’s boat is ready.
trip once due to the red tide. As their
one outboard I do everything possible
Think about it.
scheduled date neared I could see a
to keep that 175 HP Suzuki Four Stroke
The red tide on PINS pretty much
negative trend developing. We had a
in tiptop shape. I have maintenance and
disappeared on 15 November after 39
cold front, water temperature dropped
check-ups done on it more regularly
days although patches apparently remain
and the finger mullet migration resumed.
than most folks do and more than the
near the Brownsville Ship Channel and
Various species of gamefish were readily
manual specifies. It’s simple enough; I
in Corpus Christi Bay. NPS estimates
available including good numbers of large
am a seasoned professional and I fully
10 million fish were killed on PINS.
jack crevalle. This was my customers
understand and accept the responsibility
Remember a whole lot of these are what
#1 choice of target species so all was
that goes with taking customers offshore
anglers think of as trash fish. Hardhead
good. Then we started setting record
and getting them back to land safely.
catfish shouldn’t be much of an issue this
high temperatures for several days, the
Above all else, the safety of your
winter. Exceptional catches of pompano
water temperature became unusually hot
passengers is your number one priority
and other species began in the northern
for the time of year and the finger mullet
when you put the title “Captain” in front of
17 miles of PINS beach while the south
stopped migrating. The surf became a
your name and make yourself available
end was still experiencing red tide. One
“no life” zone and I knew it would remain
for charters. If it isn’t, you need to seek
catch of 100 pompano was reported
so until the next cold front passed; which
other employment. I never put my pocket
on 23 November – Wow! I dearly love
would again drop surface and water
book ahead of my customers well-being
catching pompano on light tackle but
temperatures and start the entire process
and if it’s too rough to go we reschedule.
often a long cast is required to reach
all over again. That’s how it works. The
But I’ve got a good deal going. I trust
the fish and I have become quite fond
charter was scheduled for a Sunday and
my boat and outboard to the point I
of the Daiwa Sealine 20 reel mounted
Monday. We were forecast a solid norther
would have nothing else, but likewise
on a Breakaway 10ft-6in Omega rod.
Monday morning. So I KNEW fishing
I trust the professionals at Gulf Coast
This rig is light weight and fun to cast.
would be tough Sunday and we were
Marine to keep that outboard operating
Professional distance casters use 15
doomed to get blown out on Monday
at peak performance levels. It is this
pound mono line but with customers I
completely. I called the customers in
trust that allows me to venture 40-50
use 20 pound test. A top shot of at least
L.A. and pleaded with them not to come
miles offshore. Anything can happen;
70 pound test mono is required as the
on these dates. I had plenty of empty
even to a showroom new outboard
generated energy of the cast will break
dates available after the incoming norther
and we are all aware of that. But I also
the line without it. The top shot’s length is
and chances of excellent catches would
know we can minimize the potential
twice the rod’s length plus at least 8 turns
increase dramatically. But they simply
of problems occurring by doing the
on the reel.
footwork and getting our outboards and
I want to share
electrical systems checked regularly.
a recent charter
While picking up my Panga recently and
event with you.
talking with Gulf Coast Marine mechanic
I have some
and technician, Marty Benge, recently
gentlemen from
he said, “My God, Billy, I wish other
Los Angeles who
folks would do like you and bring their
fly to Corpus
outboards in for maintenance during the
to fish with me
slow season when we have time rather
for 2 days each
than waiting till spring. They all wait until
year. Absolutely
the last minute and all want their work
great guys
done instantly when we are buried.”
but they have
Makes good sense to me to beat the
very specific
spring rush and get them checked out
goals. One fly
before then. When “trout fever” kicks
fishes only and
in everyone else is waiting in line and
the other is a
18
January 2010
John Agather with a 57-1/2” female bull shark tagged for Harte Institute on PINS - 23 November 09.
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
BILLY SANDIFER’S annual visit but that sure was an expensive whiting. It speaks for itself. If you have enough faith in a guide’s
Coastal Birding
experience and skills to hire him and fly across the U.S.A. to fish with him trust his experience enough to listen to him when he tells you to reschedule.
Tricolored Heron -Egretta tricolor-
And for those of you working your own way up the learning curve you will find that as your experience increases you will be able to evaluate options most likely to be successful on Dennis George - CPR 5’-3” female blacktipped shark caught on a cast bait – PINS 15 November 09.
upcoming trips based on climatic conditions, moon phases and other variables. The more one concentrates on one species
had the fever too bad to heed my advice
or one type of fishing with no Plan B the
and came anyway. We traveled the entire
tougher it gets.
beach front without seeing a single fish.
THE DATE OF THE UPCOMING BIG
I cast net some live finger mullet to give
SHELL BEACH CLEANUP HAS BEEN
us some chance of success but they
SET AND IS SATURDAY, 20 MARCH,
refused to use them. Sure made for a
2010. Hope to see you there.
long day. We passed anglers catching lots of pompano, black drum, whiting
White and rufous line down neck onto chest and wings. Slate gray on head, neck, wings, back and tail with white belly, rump and underwing. White plume in breeding plumage. Extremely long legged and billed. Coastal species, wades for finfish. The tricolored heron is present in Texas March through November. One of our colonial nesting waterbird species.
Length: 30” Wingspan: 46” Weight: One pound
If we don’t leave any there won’t be any. - Capt. Billy
and redfish on bait and we stopped and I took the hook out of a 5-ft blacktipped bait as we drove up but there simply was no productive lure fishing potential. We passed numerous wonderful locations for bait fishing as we headed back north. Then the debris got bad and we were
Capt. Billy Sandifer
Contact
shark Dennis George caught on a cast
past all the productive areas when all at once in desperation they decided they’d bait fish after all. Too late. The wind was building steadily, the tide had gotten high and any productive catching was over for the day. The reality of my earlier warnings finally sank in and we canceled the second day. They flew round trip from L.A. to Corpus and paid motel rent for 2 nights and ended up getting one bite all day and catching one 12” whiting for their money and efforts. It didn’t have to be
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
Photo by Jimmy Jackson
361-937-8446 Website www.billysandifer.com
that way. We’re pals and we enjoyed our Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
19
Boat StorageS Now Open!! Reserve yours Today!
0 0 0 0
Premium Views 9 ft ceilings Custom Cabinets Track Lighting
0
0 0 0 0
Resort-Style Pool 24-hour Fitness Center Internet Café Open 7 days a week
and much more!
rockport’s Newest luxury apartment community has completed our boat storages!! 12’ wide x 34’ deep, all units have electric. Exterior parking available too. The storages are open to the public.
www.oaksatbentwater.com 361-790-0001 20
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
1702 FM 3036 Rockport, Tx 78382 www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
Blue Water Hunter Hunt Series! Tuna Hunter Available in Seventeen Colors. The number 1 topwater tuna lure in America. Featuring Japanese Cypresswood construction, through wire harness, 250 # triple-wrapped stainless split rings and forged cone cut VMC 6X strong hooks. The Tuna Hunter is equipped to land big fish! WD -013 8”, 5 oz.
Tuna Hunter Sr. Available in Four Colors
Tuna Hunter Jr. AAvailable in Fourteen Color Colors rs The father to the Tuna Hunter Jr. it has all the great features of the other Tuna Hunter lures. WD-003 7 1/16, 3 1/2 oz.
Same great features as the Tuna Hunter, only in a smaller version. WD-003A 5”, 2 oz.
Wahoo Hunter Available in Five Sizes & Seven Colors.
?hk =^Ze^k Bgjnbkb^l \hgmZ\m ?khgmb^k LZe^l FZkd^mbg`3 =^ggbl <eZkd% 202&11.&-11*% hk ^fZbe ]^ggbl&_khgmb^k9l[\`eh[Ze'g^m
Built with Japanese Cypresswood to stand up to those toothy, big game fish. WD-006 5 1/2”, 3 1/4 oz, WD-007 7 1/16 “, 7 1/2 oz. WD-008 8 1/4”, 8 1/2 oz. WD-009 10 1/4”, 15 1/4”, WD-010 12 1/2”, 36 1/8 oz.
Tel : 409-938-7400 Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
l
Fax : 409-938-7401 l WWW.STRIKEPROAMERICA.COM l lure@strikeproamerica.com Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
21
BLAH Blah.
weather and clear water river fishing this
fishing and get enough fishing in unless
time of year. I enjoy plugging the drop-
they’re guides and fish while they work
offs along the various saltwater creeks
but then there is feast and famine and to
and rivers and trolling some lures behind
be honest when fishing becomes work…
the boat in hopes a trout or red will feel
and where do they go, what do they do
up to the chase, but if it doesn’t stop
when they go on vacation do they fish?
raining and dumping all that muddy run-
Someone remind me to ask McBride
suited more for, well, for nothing in my
off into the rivers as it has been, I can
about that.
area but hunting, maybe, and that’s if
forget about it.
Blah. Did I mention Blah? The weather patterns of late are
you can survive the mosquitoes. The
So with the winter blahs I sit and
Then there are my friends that tell
type my frustrations out on a laptop and
rivers are fresh the tides are low and
me the fishing is “on here” but I’m not
now and then slip into the tackle room
from the reports I’m getting, the fish
there…Argghh. And this time of the year
and try to clean a reel or clean the cork
aren’t cooperating with the fishermen or
with the holidays and with vacation days
on a fishing rod, maybe change some
fisherwomen.
in short supply, well it just makes life
hooks out on some favorite top water
tough. Oh sure I could borrow from next
baits or read old issues of Gulf Coast
dust bowl that was our place north of
year’s vacation days but then I’d be short
Connections. Did you know that running
Edna is now a green Serengeti with grass
next year, I’d run out and not be able to
the barb of a rusty old hook under
higher than a deer’s back…literally, and
make those long trips I love so much…
your thumbnail is about the worst pain
I know we need more rain to replenish
the horror. Honestly I don’t know how
imaginable? Well it is, trust me. And
the aquifers…still… I look forward to cold
people manage to combine work and
it will hurt for days too. Did you know
I mean, I know we need the rain. The
E E R F S H T N O G ET 3 M AG! M E E E R F S U PL
lar price of tion for the regu ip cr bs su th on e same rate! receive a 15-m d/or friends at th an rs be Order today and em m ily d sign up fam $25.00. Hurry an
SUBSCRIPTION
FORM
SUB0110
To order subscriptions simply fill this form out below and mail it to the address below, fax, email or go online.
361-785-3420 Monday – Friday 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. FREE E-MAG WITH HARDCOPY PURCHASE E-mail required
AM EX
15 months for 12 months! @ $25.00 ea Subscribing for more than yourself? Please write additional information on a separate sheet of paper. Offer valid until 2.28.10.
22
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
that you should wear eye protection
and it wasn’t with my other ones…cool
when cutting old treble hooks off of top
find. This one is mint and has the original
water baits with a pair of side cutters?
paperwork from The Doug English Lure
You do…trust me. Did you know that
Co. in Corpus Christi and it’s now in its
with new batteries installed, a hook
proper place among other popular baits
sharpener will actually burn skin off
from yesteryear. There are a few old
the back of your hand through friction?
Hump Lures that need attention in that
(Don’t ask.) It will, trust me.
box along with a couple of the old red
Okay I’m back. I found an old box in
handled floating stringers from the 60s;
the back of the closet in the tackle room
first ones made of plastic if I remember
(it’s really a spare bedroom but much to
right. I found a few still new in the box
the chagrin of my wife I call it my “tackle
Diawa PR & PM series reels in there too.
room”) and I’ve been going through the
Good reels for the day with a great thumb
contents. In that box are some lures of
bar but with a “slacky” anti-reverse. I’m
days that have long gone by, remnants
surprised this box has made it through
of my past and that of the inventors who
the many garage sales my wife has had
would have become wealthy had the
over the years.
things worked and of some that actually
So okay it’s cold outside, it rained
did work and quite well at that. The one
most of the day and the clearing of the
that I remember the most for not working
creeks and rivers of freshwater just isn’t
was one called “The Spark Plug.” It’s a
going to happen. I wonder if my wife
topwater bait that has some type of oil
will be mad that I used the last of my
or other liquid inside a clear body. There
vacation days for 2009 on a last minute
is metallic glitter suspended in the liquid
fishing trip down south? The problem
that will move and sparkle as the lure is
with being “blah” is that I get bored and
moved. They came in all sorts of colors,
when I’m bored I get creative. I wonder if
red, gold, green if memory serves me
McBride needs to have another garage
right. Denn Brother’s in Bay City was the
sale or if he has any more of those “Cap
first place I ever saw them and Simon
Cams” he invented for sale? I think I’ll
Denn told me he couldn’t keep them
ask him after I get into town.
on the shelves and that they were just tearing the trout and reds up with them
Happy 2010 everyone…be safe.
in Matagorda but he couldn’t remember which color was the hottest catcher so I than other lures too. I may have caught a fish on one of them I can’t remember if I did or I didn’t but I do remember how pretty the glittery liquid looked as it trickled its way down a concrete loading
Martin Strarup
Contact
bought one of each…and they cost more
ramp when dropped or on the bottom of the boat or if whacked against the side of a truck. I feel pretty certain that The Spark Plug caught more fishermen than it did fish at least in our area. I think I’ll hold on to this one to remind me of what a great salesman Simon Denn was and what a sucker I was. I did find a “new in the box” Pluggin’ Shorty lure though. I’d forgotten about it Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
23
Tricks, Tips, and Thoughts for Your Next Trip on the Water One of coolest benefits about
incorrectly, you will be in for a long day
are not alone. Saltwater anglers have
doing this column every month is the
on the water digging out “mystery loops”
their own quirks and finishing touches.
interaction with other fishermen, folks
and “God knots.” The easiest way to
Now, without getting into the really
who just want to learn more about the
ensure a hassle-free day on the water
crazy techniques, there are some basic
sport they love. Occasionally, I get
with your newly rigged spinning outfit is
adjustments that you can do to make
emails or phone calls from readers who
to unspool the line with no lure
have great questions about certain baits
tied on and let it trail behind
or techniques they learned about. I have
the boat as you run to your first
had some fantastic discussions with a
fishing destination. The line
few of the readers of TSF, and to tell you
will untwist on its own as you
the truth, I have learned a great deal
run and release most, if not all,
from them. So instead of a traditional
of the memory it gained from
“New Years Resolution” piece this
being stored on the reel or
month, I decided to share a few of the
spooled improperly. I learned
tricks I’ve picked up in the past that will
this little trick while fishing in
hopefully help you in future.
Florida where almost everyone uses spinning gear
some everyday lures perform better. One
the way Texas anglers
very simple modification that I picked up
use baitcasters. I was
from my good friend, Bink Grimes, is to
blown away at how
add a little teaser to the back hooks of
well the technique
my topwaters. Bink’s teasers are made
works; I use it on
from small pieces of aquarium tubing
almost every trip and
that he colored with either a paint pen
recommend it highly
or dye that you usually dip your plastics
to anyone who’s
in. The tubing resembles the small pink
having line difficulties.
tabs that we are accustomed to seeing
Another commonly
on a spoon. It slips around the shank of
asked question is
your treble hook and adds a little more
how can I get a
enticing flash to your plug.
little extra out of Spinning tackle is fast becoming
Anyone who has ever been on the
my lures? Freshwater fishermen have
boat with me knows I have a very
popular among Texas fisherman. Long
long been known for doing some crazy
special place in my heart for jerk baits
looked down upon by most coastal
modifications to different baits, such as
and crankbaits, such as the Rapalas,
anglers, the spinning tackle revolution
tying buzz baits to their truck antennas
Red Fins, and Mann’s 1-Minus. One
has really taken hold in our part of the
so the blades will wear smooth and turn
improvement that I almost always make
world and shows no signs of slowing
more freely when in the
down. As anglers become more
water. Some guys will
specialized, many find that there are
leave a lure on their
places where a quality spinning rig will
dash in the sun to fade
just flat out-fish level wind reels. That
the colors while others
being said, the number one problem
will airbrush new baits
most new spinning anglers have to deal
right out of the box to
with is line twist or loops in the line. The
achieve that “just right”
majority of these problems start with how
color in hopes of luring
the line is spooled on the reel; if spooled
the perfect catch. They
26
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
to a new bait before I ever use it is to remove the split ring from the nose. The split rings will often wear a spot on the line that can translate into “the one that got away.” By removing the split ring and going to a loop knot instead, you get a more direct connection to the lure without losing any of the desired action. This will also keep the ring from getting
variations in the structure: low spots
caught up between the lip or bill of the
where more water flows between the
lure, causing the bait to run off course
rocks, missing rocks or eroded spots,
and not retrieve true. Correct action
and places where water makes an eddy
on the plug is imperative, so anything
(great places for fish to ambush baits).
you can do to maintain that action and
The best way to set up in these situations
maximize fishing opportunities is always
is to make long casts parallel to the
a good idea.
rocks because this is the way the baitfish
Besides the lure modifications and
travel. Some of the best baits you can
equipment tips, one more bit of advice I
throw along the rocks are weightless soft
can arm you with for your next trip on the
plastics, shallow running crankbaits, and
water in the coming months is to not pass
of course, topwaters. When there is any
up the normally overlooked structures
current at all, the rocks can be a real fish
such as rock-lined banks or rip rap.
magnet that very few people take the time to explore. I hope that a few of these tricks help to make your next year’s fishing even better than years past. Please have a happy and safe New Year. See ya on the water.
Contact
Chuck Uzzle
Almost every bay system in Texas has miles of these rocks stacked along the banks, and anglers continually bypass them in favor of other locations. Most anglers consider these piles featureless, but they really have subtle facets that often hold fish. By using the same approach as you would when fishing a jetty system, you can effectively probe the rock systems and cash in on all sorts of species that call these places home. When I fish rock shorelines, I look for Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
27
Science and the Sea
TM
Salty, Savory, Sustainable Thanks to a clever farming technique, mussel lovers can relish the fact that their favorite shellfish is not only tasty, but also kind to the environment. Known as suspended culture, this low-impact system of mussel farming cultivates mussels on ropes, which are attached to a long line anchored to the sea floor. The line holds the mussel-encrusted ropes at a depth of 30 to 40 feet, where mussels are safe from hungry birds at the surface, as well as from starfish lurking on the sea floor. To avoid the boat traffic and delicate habitats found near coasts, mussel farms can be stationed several miles offshore. Mussel cultivation begins when free-floating larvae in the water attach themselves to special collection ropes. These baby mussels, known as spat, are then transferred to “grow-out” ropes, where they remain until they reach harvest size in about 12 to 18 months. The filter-feeding mussels extract plankton and other organic matter from the ocean currents that sweep over them, converting the nutrients into the sweet, juicy flesh prized by seafood lovers. As filter feeders, mussels don’t need fish meal or other food, as some farmed fish species do. Mussels can even improve water quality by reducing excess organic matter in the water column. Aquaculture researchers are keeping tabs on suspended culture mussel farms to see how they might affect local water quality and surrounding habitats over time. But for now, shellfish lovers can enjoy farmed mussels knowing they are one of the most environmentally sound seafood choices.
The University of Texas
Marine Science Institute www.ScienceAndTheSea.org © The University of Texas Marine Science Institute 28
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
=ph]ja]f[] Yf af[j]\aZd] ^ak`af_ nY[Ylagf o`ad] ]fbgqaf_ Ydd l`] Ye]fala]k g^ Y ^ajkl [dYkk `gl]d
>jge ,*- h]j h]jkgf :Yk]\ gf imY\jmhd] g[[mhYf[q
ad
ng
%
ni
20
en tio
M
;gflY[l mk ^gj ^mjl`]j af^gjeYlagf Yf\ [mklgear]\ hY[cY_]k Yl2 Lgdd ^j]] ) 0.. *,) ,(** t j]k]jnYlagfk8k]j]fYj]ka\]f[]k&[ge t ooo&k]j]fYj]ka\]f[]k&[ge
th
is
OF
F
, fa_`lk af Y + Z]\jgge dmpmjq j]ka\]f[] * \Yqk kYdloYl]j ^ak`af_ ljahk ^gj mh lg , h]ghd] LjYfkhgjlYlagf Yajhgjl%j]kgjl%Yajhgjl& <Yadq [gflaf]flYd Zj]Yc^Ykl ^gj , h]ghd]&
TIDELANDS Piers & Bulkheads L.L.C. www.piersbulkheads.com
25 years of service and experience 200+ satisfied customers 100+ piers
Contact us for your next project! piersbulkheads@gmail.com 361.935.8008 (cell) 361.552.8899 (office) Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
29
Ask the Pro
J AY WAT K I N S
January ďŹ nds us
bait this time of year is EVERYTHING.
with softer bottom or scattered shell
in the thick of winter
Usually, the bait will show up close
with a slight mix of the soft stuff and
ďŹ shing patterns. For
to the given structure in whatever
some grass. To me, soft bottom with
those of you that visited
bay your ďŹ shing, and its location and
some scattered grass and some harder
the Rockport area over
activity will be solely based upon water
submerged structure is hard to beat.
the past few months,
temperatures. In sports, announcers do
Add to this a quick deep-water access
I hope you have seen an increase in
a walk-through prior to the game; I do the
for bitter cold periods, and you have a
your trout catches. The numbers are still
same before every trip I take, especially
prime big trout winter area. Along with
below winter averages, I feel, but they
in the winter months. Let me take you on
checking the frontal system forecasts, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll
are much improved since heavy rainfall
a walk-through.
look up the Gulf water temperature, but
over the past few months has sweetened
To start, I monitor the weather
the bays and colder water temperatures
forecasts for the upcoming week. Frontal
have aided in concentrating the
passages are typically
scattered ďŹ sh of November and early
once-a-week affairs, so
December. During this time of year, I
I have to ďŹ nd areas that
am often monitoring frequent frontal
provide some protection
systems, observing water temperatures,
from both SE and NE
and searching for bait over just about
winds. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll also need some
any type of structure. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll travel from San
preferred structure for
Antonio Bay down to BafďŹ n in search of
the particular bay system
the best quality of trout for my clients,
that I have chosen to ďŹ sh
while paying close attention to those
for that day. In January,
three factors. You may have heard this
Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m most often looking
more times than you care to, but locating
for either scattered grass
my on-board GPS water temperature gauge is what I truly go by. It measures
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
W W W. B O M B E R S A LT WAT E R G R A D E . C O M
30
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
A S K T H E PRO
every edge or drop-off in that area. I stay as far away from the comfort zone as possible. I am a big believer in a mature trout’s ability to sense our presence. Tip her off that you’re there, and you’ve decreased your chances dramatically. By reducing movement, you reduce water noise and vibration, thus increasing your odds of a catch. Although, talking must not spook them because I catch them and my mouth’s open all the time! Another tip to increase your chance of catching a big one is to TRY to keep the fish below the surface as much as you CAN once hooked. Not only does this give you a better chance of landing a really big the water surface temperature. I monitor
fish, but it also reduces the disturbance
the water temperature hourly in any given
in the comfort zone. Big fish can spook
area. Daytime warming trends can heat
other big fish in the area if given too
shallower areas of the same structure
much rein, and actually, fighting your fish
just a few degrees, which often draws the
with more drag than normal will land you
bait up shallow for a short, midday warm
bigger fish. To pull this all together, you
up. By adjusting to these trends, you can
need only the right rod and proper leader
keep yourself in the area where the bait
materials.
resides, and that’s where your trout will
Finally, one aspect that I think is a
be as well. Winter-run trout never get too
given to all successful big fish anglers is
far from the chuck wagon.
ATTITUDE; you got to know the fish are
Once on the water, I try to troll or drift
there even when you don’t stick one. Got
into the area that I have chosen for the
to see in your mind what’s not visible to
day. This gives me time to observe the
the eye, and absolutely got to know that
area and get my approach plan in place.
when she bites, she’s done. The Watkins
If you’ll really look at WHERE and HOW
boys have it. Do you?
the bait is reacting, it will give you the line that the majority of the bait is holding to.
May your fishing
In the winter, baitfish often react to larger
Always be catching,
trout whether or not the trout are actively feeding. Reading the area that you have
Guide Jay Watkins
task at this point in the day. If you get the signals confused, you can blow your opportunities before they have had time to fully develop. One piece of advice that I positively know will help you become a better trophy trout angler is to allow the pattern to develop. Thoroughly observe
CONTACT
chosen is the single most important
every aspect of what’s happening before you make big moves in your area. When I believe I have located the right fish, I’ll set up camp and try to hit literally every piece of structure and Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
31
32
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
Bluff’s Landing Roger Viar’s Second Annual “Baffin Bay Rodeo” Fishing Tournament
February 26, 27 & 28, 2010 $15,000 FIRST PLACE GUARANTEED BLUFFS LANDING MARINA
2009 WINNERS This is a live fish weigh-in 2 day tournament/2 fish per day limit. All trout must be alive to qualify for weigh-in. Entry Fee: $500 per team (non refundable) 100 Team maximum.
Check our website at: www.bluffslanding.com Trout must be over 20” to qualify.
4242 Laguna Shores, Rd., Corpus Christi, TX 78418
All winners will be polygraphed. Artificial bait only. More info, call Roger:(361) 937-7100
Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
33
F LY F I S H I N G DE PA R T M E N T
Choosing the Right Vise Over the past 30
as it was tied. It also allowed tyers
years, I have spent a
to palmer materials onto the fly by
shameful amount of
rotating the arm and feeding them
time behind a fly tying
to the hook rather than wrapping the
vise. Beginning in the
CASEY SM A RTT
l 0’ with i h a homemade vise, and late 70’s graduating through many different models over the years, I have learned
thread/materials around a stationary The hook-holding power of a good vise demonstrated with unbreakable Kevlar thread.
come to be known, are now the standard. If you are shopping for a
to love (and hate) vises and my
tools that will reward you with many
vise I strongly encourage you to go
addiction to tying flies. If you are
years of service. If you are tempted
with a rotary vise. You might think
considering purchasing a vise for fly
to purchase a cheap vise just to get
you don’t need a rotary vise but if you
tying you may be a little confused on
started, you may be disappointed
ever tie on one you’ll love it. They
where to start. There are hundreds of
with the results. Likewise, vises
make tying, gluing, and viewing flies
different models to choose from, with
included in inexpensive fly tying kits
monumentally easier.
prices ranging from $25 all the way up
are typically not up to par. If you are
C-Clamp vs. Pedestal
to $400 or more. Good vises aren’t
shopping for a vise, make sure you
Vises are anchored to the work
cheap, so making the right purchase
test it before you buy. Place a hook
surface with either a c-clamp or a
the first time is important. Here are
in the jaws and tighten it up. Does
weighted pedestal. Each anchoring
a few tips I think you should consider
the cam/screw assembly tighten and
style has its benefits and limitations
when selecting a vise.
loosen smoothly? Does the hook
and whether you choose a c-clamp
Grip
align correctly in the jaws? Does the
style mount or a weighted pedestal
The absolute number one purpose
hook slip when you apply force to the
base mount depends on what flies you
of the vise is to hold a hook with a
eye? These are things you should test
tie and where you tie them.
rock-solid grip… period. All the other
before dropping your cash.
bells and whistles are worthless if
Rotary Shaft
clamp fastened to the bottom of
a vise can’t keep its grip on a hook.
Years ago, all vises had fixed arm
the throat of the vise. This clamp
Saltwater fly tying often uses large
and jaw assemblies. This meant
is usually tightened to the lip of a
hooks, heavy threads, and tying
that when you mounted a hook in the
tying bench or table. C-clamp style
techniques that will test the limits of
vise, it stayed in a locked position
vises are very secure and cannot be
the vise’s jaw assembly and clamping
until you removed it. There was no
bumped out of position or toppled
power. I can tell you, nothing is more
way to view the bottom or back of the
when tying. This makes them a good
frustrating than having a nearly-
hook/fly without removing it from the
choice for tying methods like deer hair
complete fly slip or pop loose from
vise and rolling it over. It was a real
spinning where sideways, upper, and
the jaws of a wimpy vise. It is very
pain. Engineers took note, and along
lower forces are applied to the hook.
discouraging. Fortunately
A c-clamp style vise has a small
came rotary
But, there are several disadvantages
shaft vises. The
to c-clamps. First, they require
there are plenty
jaw assembly of
smooth solid clamping surfaces and
of vises out there
these vises was
not all tables at all locations you
connected to a
might tie (like hotel rooms) provide
floating (rather
this. Second, c-clamps tend to leave
than fixed) shaft
impressions on anything they are
manufactured
that could be
fastened to. So if you clamp your
by Renzetti,
manually rotated
shiny new vise down on your wife’s
Dyna-King, Peak,
like an axle. This
prized coffee table, the clamp will dent
DanVise, and
feature allowed
it and you’re gonna’ be in hot water.
Regal are all
tyers to spin the
good candidates.
arm and view
a weighted rectangular base with
These are quality
all sides of a fly
a non-slip rubber or felt pad on the
with extreme hook-holding power. Vises
34
hook. “Rotary vises,” as they have
January 2010
My favorite vise the simple Renzetti Traveler rotary with Clouser jaws.
Texas Saltwater Fishing
Pedestal style vises incorporate
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
thousands of flies I have tied on this
is a big event with fly fishing seminars, fly
highly portable and can be placed and
vise, and I consider it perfect for
tying demonstrations, casting instruction,
used on nearly any level surface. They
saltwater tying. But the best way to
fly tackle vendors… the works. This
can also be moved around while the fly
evaluate which style and brand of vise is
year’s guest list includes Chico
is tied. The disadvantage of a pedestal
best for you is to watch them in action,
Fernandez. If you want to learn more
mount vise is that it is possible to pull
ask questions, and try them out. There
about fly fishing, this is a great chance.
the vise over with sideways thread
are two great events coming up where
tension, or knock it over with an errant
you can do this.
elbow shot. A second disadvantage is
The first event is the Texas Fly
As always, if you have questions or need more information, feel free to contact me. You can also visit my
Fisher’s 18th Annual Fly Tying
website: www.caseysmartt.com My site
as a lever against the base when force
Festival. The Fly Tying Festival will be
includes fly fishing articles, videos, fly
is applied to the hook, the throat must
held in Houston at Bethany Christian
fishing reports, and other fun stuff.
be kept somewhat short. This means
Church, 3223 Westheimer Rd. on
the distance between the clamped hook
Saturday, February 6 from 9:00 am until
and the base is fairly short compared to
4:00 pm. There will be over 40 fly tyers
a c-clamp model. Some tyers find this
at this event and this year’s scheduled
too confining.
guest is none other than Bob Clouser.
Vises in action
The second event is the Federation
My favorite vice is the Renzetti Traveler
of Fly Fishers (FFF) 2010 Gulf Coast
outfitted with Clouser jaws. There
Conclave. The Conclave will be held
O VIDE
Just Keep Five
is honestly no way of
at the New Braunfels Civic Center, New
counting how many
Braunfels, TX on April 8-10, 2010. This
CONTACT
that because the throat of the vise acts
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
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
35
F LY F I S H I NG DE PA R T M E N T
bottom. Vises with these bases are
OF F S HOR E
BLU E WAT ER JOU R N A L
B OBB Y B Y R D & C A P T. J PH N C O C H R A N E
It’s Show Time! Winter is a tough time of year for bluewater fishermen. Cold fronts keep the winds blowing, the temperature
trip out and back, but the action can be fast and furious. Look for a wahoo report in the next few issues.
cold and the seas rough. Many of us are thinking more
The holiday season is upon us and we hope everyone
about ducks and bucks than marlin and tuna. However,
has good reason to celebrate. We are looking forward to
if you have the ability to go when a weather window
a prosperous 2010 and hope you feel the same way. A
allows, the fishing can be outstanding. Yellowfin Tuna
new decade! With the New Year also comes “show time.”
are concentrated around the deepwater platforms like
Boat Shows, Fishing Shows, Hunting Shows… all kinds of
Boomvang and Nansen. The latest report from the
outdoor shows around the state. It’s great to see all the new
Thanksgiving Holiday was a solid tuna bite going on for
stuff and latest innovations. This is the time of year we start
those who could get out. Remember to watch those cold
dreaming about warmer weather and enjoy visiting with
fronts…they can really ruin your day! In the next few
our old fishing buddies we haven’t seen since summer. For
months big wahoo start showing up at the deepwater rocks
us the Houston Boat Show is a tradition that brings back
near Flower Gardens and many will average well over fifty
fond memories of when we were kids. We always loved
pounds. Anglers watching the weather can run out near
going to the boat show with our dads and seeing all the
the Gardens and fish the rocks, but you have to be able to
new stuff. It’s a great place to check out the latest boats,
go when there’s a “window” of good weather, in between
equipment and accessories as well as lots of other exhibits.
nasty low pressure systems and cold fronts. It’s a quick
Many exhibitors offer Boat Show Specials, discounts and incentives on boats, as well as many other accessories and equipment. One of the most important aspects of a boat show is the ability for the prospective boat buyer to compare similar manufacturer’s products side by side in one location, something that would take you weeks to do otherwise. Another advantage in attending a boat show is that you can usually talk directly to factory representatives, boat builders, engine experts and other specialists. If you have technical questions about certain things, this is a great place to get the right answers, all under the same roof! Take advantage of this great opportunity to check out the latest tackle or book a fishing trip. Need advice? All the best guides are there and ready to answer your questions. Oh yeah…. and don’t forget to pick up some beef jerky! Here are some of the upcoming shows. Texas Fishing Hunting and Outdoors Show Arlington Convention Center Jan 7-10 Houston International Boat Show Reliant Center Jan 8-17 Austin Boat Show Austin Convention Center Jan 14-17
36
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
OF F S HOR E
Be sure to
Come by and get a great deal on your
come by the
next boat. For more information check
Houston Boat
out our website www.foxyachtsales.com
Show and
or you can contact John Cochrane at
see us at the
captjohn@foxyachtsales.com.
Tops-N-Towers Reliant Center, January 8–17. We always have lots of great pictures and love hearing and Corpus Christi Boat Show
talking about the latest fishing news.
American Bank Convention Center
You can also stop by and visit us in
Jan 22-24
Seabrook at our Fox Yacht Sales Seabrook Office and Tops-N-Towers
San Antonio Boat Show Alamodome Jan 28-31
on Nasa Parkway. At Fox we have an extensive inventory of brokerage boats and we are the exclusive Texas dealer
Dallas International Boat Show Dallas Market Hall Feb 5-14
Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
for CABO Yachts. We specialize in sportfishing boats and motor yachts.
Texas Saltwater Fishing
CONTACT
booth at 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 281291-0656 Tops-N-Towers 281-474-4000 Capt. John Cochrane 409-739-4817 Websites www.byrd-cochrane.com www.topsntowers.com www.foxyachtsales.com
January 2010
37
CONSERVAT ION PAG E
BROUG H T TO YOU B Y. . .
Coastal Conservation Association - 2009 in Review Here at Coastal Conservation Association Texas (CCA Texas), 2009 began as it did for all non-profit organizations
CCA Texas continued its long-time support of TPWD law
and businesses with much concern swirling around the
enforcement with the purchase of five-sided scan sonar
financial status of the country and business alike. Through
systems for the coastal wardens. The total cost of these
a continued dedicated effort by chapter volunteers, donors
state of the art systems was $12,000. These systems
and sponsors, and the staff at CCA Texas, the organization
will provide beneficial use for victim recovery; evidence
was able to finish 2009 in strong fashion with much
gathering for fisheries crime, such as the location of cut-
anticipation towards 2010. The volunteers and staff are
away nets and doors, which are later used for prosecution
already working hard towards a successful 2010 and it will
in criminal cases; and for the location of derelict vessels and
take a continued dedicated effort by all involved.
debris that are reported to the Texas General Land Office
2009 was a year of continued emphasis on coastal fisheries filled with support for Texas Parks Wildlife Department (TPWD) Coastal Fisheries Division and
(GLO) for removal. CCA will continue its commitment to TPWD law enforcement as we move forward in 2010. Education in the marine fisheries field continues to be an
Law Enforcement, marine fisheries education and
important area of support for CCA Texas. CCA Texas once
the launching of CCA Texas’s Habitat Today for Fish
again funded four summer internships for TPWD coastal
Tomorrow (HTFT) initiative.
fisheries. These internships took place in the Lower
The organization continued to be at the forefront on
Laguna Madre, Upper Laguna Madre, Corpus Christi
flounder fisheries management and research through
and Rockport field stations. With a total commitment of
the support of TPWD facilities at the CCA-AEP Marine
$26,072, CCA Texas provided much needed help to TPWD
Development Center in Corpus Christi and Sea Center
field stations and in addition provided valuable hands-on
Texas in Lake Jackson. A total of $46,000 was contributed
experience for marine biology students. This process also
in 2009 to the facilities for equipment, including new tanks
gives TPWD staff a great opportunity to see firsthand the
for research at the CCA-AEP MDC facility and for the
strengths and habits of potential long term employees as
modifications of tanks and equipment at Sea Center Texas
the students progress and eventually graduate into the
that are better suited for flounder research and hatchery
working environment.
type operations. In addition to this new and modified
CCA Texas Graduate Scholarship program continues
equipment, CCA Texas funded $14,000 to TPWD for the
to remain a vital link into the education of future marine
purchase of a flounder boat to be used for the gathering of
biologists. CCA Texas provides five $5,000 graduate
brood stock for hatchery purposes. The flounder boat will
scholarships to students at UTMSI Port Aransas (two),
be shared between TPWD facilities and is to be rigged like
Texas A&M College Station, Texas A&M Galveston, and
a normal floundering boat. The exception to utilization of
Texas A&M Corpus Christi. These scholarships are all fully
the boat is that all fish will be netted in a method perfected
endowed at $50,000 and will continue to provide education
by TPWD and University of Texas Marine Science Institute
for future marine biologists for years to come.
(UTMSI) researchers and biologists.
2009 marked the beginning of a new habitat effort
Chester Moore, longtime proponent of TPWD’s efforts to
38
donated fish which meet prescribed criteria.
for CCA Texas. With the approval of the CCA Texas
enhance the flounder fishery was also awarded a $1,000
Executive Board in November 2008, the Habitat Today
grant to help enhance his Flounder Revolution effort.
for Fish Tomorrow (HTFT) program officially kicked off in
His program is providing replica fish through a contest
2009. With emphasis on state-water near shore fisheries,
which allows anglers to donate flounder catches to TPWD
HTFT contributed $135,000 to the TPWD Artificial Reefing
hatchery facilities for brood stock. These funds will help
Program. This contribution includes $50,000 to the
him in his efforts to reward recreational fishermen in their
Vancouver reefing site off Freeport, $50,000 to the Port
efforts to support TPWD by giving them a replica of their
Mansfield reefing site and an additional $35,000 committed
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
to a new site that will be located between Matagorda and Port
in Rockport, where twenty seven volunteers planted over 1,800
O’Connor. In addition to the monetary contributions, CCA Texas
plugs of spartina grass into the Goose Island restoration project.
has worked with TPWD to secure temporary storage facilities in
CCA Texas held two first time membership and fund raising
Freeport in partnership with Dorsett Brothers Concrete, secured
banquets in 2009. The Orange Country Chapter held its first
reefing material in partnership with Old Castle Precast and
event after a year long delay due to Hurricane Ike and the Lower
Texas A&M Galveston and has provided for the transportation
Colorado Chapter was also formed out of Bay City and held
of materials to the Freeport facility. The Freeport reef site
a very successful first time event. CCA Texas looks forward
deployment, originally scheduled for late summer of 2009, has
to the growth of these chapters and the support of these local
been pushed to spring of 2010. This delay is the result of a
communities for years to come.
bigger and stronger effort that will provide for a larger reefing
CCA Texas moves into 2010 with renewed optimism that
area and partnerships with TPWD and private companies. The
only dedicated and committed volunteers can provide. The
Port Mansfield deployment is also scheduled for spring of 2010
organization will continue the fight, side-by-side, with the
and the new site between Matagorda and Port O’Connor should
grassroots efforts of these volunteers to ensure the coastal
follow later in the year.
resources of Texas flourish and are available for future
HTFT and the CCA Texas Executive Board approved $10,000
generations to enjoy. If you are interested in being a part of the
for the Nueces Bay marsh restoration project being implemented
greatest coastal conservation effort in Texas, please contact your
by Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program (CBBEP). This
local chapter or the CCA Texas office at 800.626.4222. More
project will eventually restore approximately 150 acres of marsh.
specific information and local emphasis can be found at www.
CCA Texas committed funds, along with separate foundation
ccatexas.org.
funds currently being sought, will help CBBEP with stage one
CCA Texas is a non-profit organization dedicated to
of the project. In addition to the funds, HTFT and CBBEP
the conservation of Texas’ coastal marine resources. For
will hold a marsh grass planting day that will allow volunteers
more information, please go to www.ccatexas.org. For
throughout the area and state the opportunity to be “hands on”
more information about HTFT please contact John Blaha at
with the restoration of Texas’s valuable coastal resources. This
800.626.4222.
planting day will be mirrored after the Goose Island planting day
Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
39
F I E L D N O T E S
The Often Overlooked Florida Pompano By Todd Neahr Natural Resource Specialist | Upper Laguna Madre Ecosystem | Corpus Christi, Texas
Have you ever thought of breaking away from the same
running parallel to shore and extending gulfward. The diet
old fishing trip? Do you want to target something different
of pompano consists of small mollusks and crustaceans.
for a change? Whether you enjoy lightning fast runs or the
Pompano cruise the sandbars in search of burrowing invertebrates, and anglers should place their baited leaders in the path of pompano schools. Most pompano fisherman cast on either the front or back of a gut as the sandbar is the pompano highway. When spooked, pompano will often jump out of the water on one side. This behavior can be
finished product on your dinner plate the Florida pompano
observed many places including the mouth of Baffin Bay
fits the bill.
and on the sandbars of the surf zone.
The range of the Florida pompano, Trachinotus carolinus,
Now is the time to chase pompano as anglers often
or simply “pompano” extends from Massachusetts to
concentrate their efforts in the surf during the fall and winter.
southern Brazil. Pompano mostly frequent gulf beaches,
In between cold fronts is a great time to target pompano, but
but can be found in other habitats such as estuaries and
they can actually be caught year round when the conditions
even natural and artificial offshore reefs. Pompano prefer
are optimal. The information age has made it easier
mid to higher salinities as evidenced by high catch rates
for anglers to gauge the pompano activity by browsing
from West Matagorda Bay to the lower Laguna Madre.
fishing forums for recent reports or by monitoring offshore
There are no regulations pertaining to pompano in Texas
buoy forecasts. Calm offshore seas (zero to two feet)
state waters. The current state record Florida pompano was caught in June 2006 in the lower Laguna Madre measuring 24.63” and weighing 6.41 pounds. Pompano are a popular member of the jack family sought by both recreational and commercial fisherman throughout the Gulf of Mexico. Anglers frequently inquire via online fishing forums and at harvest surveys on where and how to catch pompano. By far, the easiest and most accessible locations to target pompano are from the beach or the surf side of a jetty. The surf zone is a series of bars and troughs, also known as guts,
40
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
dead shrimp. Unpeeled or peeled, keep it small and about
Experienced pompano anglers will normally ďŹ sh clear green to
the size of a knuckle. It is also common practice to thread
sandy green water, but they can frequently catch pompano in
ďŹ&#x201A;uorescent colored beads just above the circle hooks. Most
chocolate-milk colored water in mid winter.
surf ďŹ sherman will attach a small strip of Fish Bites onto the
Knowing when and where to catch them is important, but
F I E L D NO T E S
generally translate into prime pompano ďŹ shing in the surf zone.
hook before adding a piece of shrimp. The Fish Bite is an
knowing what to throw is a different question. Pompano have
impregnated cheese cloth with a dissolving ďŹ sh attractant, and
surprised experienced anglers alike by hitting topwater plugs,
pompano can be caught on Fish Bites alone.
suspending plugs, and soft plastics, but most anglers keep it
Being a member of the jack family, pompano have a semi-
simple with a double drop rig. The mainline of the leader is
oily ďŹ&#x201A;esh making them a great candidate for the grill or smoker.
usually 2 to 3â&#x20AC;&#x2122; of 30 to 50# monoďŹ lament with a barrel swivel
Anglers often ďŹ llet pompano with the skin intact and cook skin
at the top and a large snap swivel at the bottom. Two 8 to 12â&#x20AC;?
side down just like redďŹ sh-on-the-halfshell.
sections of 20# monoďŹ lament attach circle hooks to the leader.
Consider a trip to the surf and target pompano the next time
Some anglers keep it extra simple by using a longer section
you are in need of change of pace from your normal ďŹ shing trip.
of mainline leader with loop knots placed in the mid section of
You will be surprised by their blistering runs on light tackle and
the leader to allow for hook attachment. A variety of different
their highly prized table fare.
styles of surf weights are used to keep the leader ďŹ rmly planted in the pompano highway. Pompano are known for their quick
Check the TPWD Outdoor Annual, your local TPWD Law Enforcement ofďŹ ce or www.tpwd.state.tx.us for more information.
bursts of energy and can easily dislodge an embedded 4 oz surf weight. The double drop leader can be used with bay rods and up to lengthy surf casting rods. Remember to use weights matched to the appropriate rod. Keeping in line with pompano diet, anglers tend to use fresh
Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
41
K A Y A K F I S H I N G
Mid-life Awakenings and Savoring the Future C A P T. S C O T T N U L L
I’m usually so danged busy these days that
Along the way I also got to thinking about all the things
I don’t take much time to reflect on the past, but today’s
I want do in the coming year. The list is long and kayak
cold and rain had me penned in the house and I got to think
trips are scattered throughout. Although I’ve had the good
about things. I suddenly realized this was the end of not
fortune to paddle and fish many locations along the Texas
only a year; we’re getting ready to slip into a new decade.
coast, there are still many more I want to experience. My
What the heck are we going to call this past decade
new calendar is now on the desk and I’m checking the
anyway? The 70s, 80s, and 90s were a no-brainer. Is this
schedule to see where I can fit at least a few of them.
one the Oughts or perhaps the Aughts, as in ought-three or aught-seven? The dictionary says they both work.
I think I’ll start the year in search of that personal best trout. It’s been far too long since I put my hands on a truly
Whatever you want to call it, this has been a pretty
big trout and I need to change that. Perhaps I can finally
cool decade for me personally. I’ve changed careers,
break that magical thirty-inch mark. I’ve been close a few
watched my two daughters transform into beautiful young
times, but “twenty-nine and three-quarters” just doesn’t
women, written a couple books and found my way into
have the same ring as “thirty.” January, February and early
kayak fishing. I also purchased a parcel of land on the
March are obviously the prime months and it would be a fine
coast where I will eventually build the home where I will
way to start the new decade. A trip to Baffin, another into
live out my golden years with my wonderful wife. Most
East Matty and possibly a mother-ship trip to Gladys’ Hole
of all I’ve noticed a change in my overall attitude. I seem
in Port Mansfield should do the trick.
to appreciate things in different ways. Days on the water
March and April will be windy, as always, and a great
or at the hunting camp with family and friends seem a bit
time to greet the reds in the protected marshes. Luckily our
more special. Quietly paddling a bayou and just watching
coast is blessed with thousands of acres that fit the bill. I’ve
the wildlife is now a treasured experience. Not that I
spent my life exploring the marshes of the Galveston Bay
didn’t occasionally savor these moments in the past, it just
system and I think it’s time to check out some other areas.
seems that I used to be so focused on the ultimate goal of
The Guadalupe Delta has always intrigued me and it’s near
catching fish or downing a deer that I might’ve missed a
my chosen retirement location. I think I need to spend a few
few things. Perhaps you could call it a mid-life awakening;
trips checking that place out for future reference. It looks
it certainly isn’t a crisis in my book.
awesome on Google Earth and if any of you out there have some experience in that area and wouldn’t mind a partner on a trip I’d appreciate it. May is just too full of possibilities. The water temps will get right, the winds should lay and the fishing will break wide open. I haven’t fished the beautiful flats of the Lower Laguna in a while. The shrimp should have the reds all lathered up and casting to those pods of rolling bronze backs with the fly rod is a special treat. I’ve been wanting to do a multi-day camping/kayaking/ fishing trip and that area lends itself perfectly. The weather should be right and the fishing at its peak.
42
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
a perfect tool to make that exercise
goes on the calendar.
enjoyable again. September teal
June, all I can think about are the
season will offer an opportunity to try
many trips in the Aransas Pass area
it out. Of course I’ll have to bring a
over the last few years. I’ll surely
rod along for the reds that’ll be starting
make a trip around that time to get
their fall feast in those same marshes.
in on the consistent tailing action on
If the overnighter to Port Mansfield
those flats. And as many times as I’ve
goes well I might do another in the
paddled the Light House Lakes I’ve
cooler weather of October. The
never really explored them. I need to
Port O’Connor paddling trail over to
change that. Instead of going to the
Matagorda Island has been on my to-
same old areas that have produced in
do list for quite some time. Exploring
the past I think I’ll spend a couple days
the back lakes around Mule Slough
in the far back lakes poking around for
should lead to some fine fishing
new favorite spots.
along the way. This is another area
Once the heat of July settles in I
where I’ve fished the edges, but
think I’ll head way south. I still haven’t
never ventured deep enough for real
caught my first Texas snook. Maybe I
exploring, time to rectify that.
can talk Ernest Cisneros into showing
November is flounder time on the
me around South Bay. That’s one
upper Texas coast and nowhere
area I’ve never gotten around to
have I caught more flounder than
fishing and I should be ashamed. It
in Sabine Lake. I think I’ll get my
is perhaps the ultimate kayak fishing
Louisiana fishing license and head
destination on our coast. A snook
over to the east shoreline. All of those
on a topwater in Texas would be a
marsh drains should be money early
highlight of the year.
in the month, before the full-fledged
August will find me looking for a
migration gets ramped up. Once I get
window to get offshore and chase
my fill of flounder I’ll ease up into the
kingfish. It isn’t something I haven’t
marsh ponds for what should be some
ever done, but every trip out there is
awesome redfish action.
different and special. The days that
K AYA K F I S H I NG
Yep, I’ve talked myself into it. That trip
Come December I might have to
allow kayaking offshore are generally
take a break from all of this kayak
few and you just have to remain
fishing fun and spend some time
flexible so you can hit it when it gets
sitting in the deer stand on a cold and
right. And if the fishing gods smile
rainy day reflecting on the wonderful
upon me, perhaps I can run across
year and all the adventures it brought.
some tarpon among the shoals of
I hope you and yours have enjoyed
baitfish that roam the blue-green water
a great holiday season and you are
a couple miles off the beach. I caught
now inspired to search out your own
my first Texas tarpon this year, but it
adventures in the decade ahead.
was in a power boat and it was just a kayak sounds interesting. Duck hunting from a kayak is something I’ve intended to do since I bought my first one. In my younger days I hunted waterfowl quite a bit, but I no longer think of a death march through a muddy marsh lugging a
CONTACT
little guy. A full-grown tarpon from the
sack of decoys as fun. The kayak is
Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
43
AC C OR DI N G T O S C O T T
Green Machines C A P T. S C O T T S OM M E R L AT T E
We hear the term “green” used daily to signify or
emission standards have forced us to drive cleaner
represent a healthier environment or to signify the
running automobiles. These emission standards have
movement to clean up the world we live in. Over the
now trickled over into the angling world as the EPA has
history of mankind, we have found ways to make life easier for ourselves, for example, I am writing this on a
Even though I run a “green machine” I still lean proudly to the right!
computer, not a stone tablet with hammer and chisel. The point is that many of these advances have come at a price to our environment and we are beginning to realize it, hence the “green” movement to reduce our impact on the environment. While quite a few embrace this movement, just as many dismiss it. However, there is a segment of the angling world that is becoming “greener” by day, whether they believe in global warming or not, and they do not even realize it. Years ago, the world of saltwater fishing along the coast was a very small segment of the fishing demographic, especially in Texas. For many, the mentality was- why drive to the coast to fish when I can fish in a lake just down the road? As the population increased at an unprecedented rate, people began to find their favorite fishing hole just too crowded to enjoy so they began making treks to the coast to enjoy the peace and quiet of the gulf and bays. These areas have now become very crowded and there is nowhere else to go. This has caused some to just give up fishing altogether and others to find ways to leave the crowds behind. In recent years the federal government has imposed laws on us to help reduce our impact on the environment. For example
44
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
ACCOR DI NG TO SCOT T
begun to crack down on outboard
or less. In fact, there are a growing
motor manufacturers to start
number of people running skiffs with
producing four-stroke engines that
engines in the 25-30 hp range. Not
have fewer emissions and better
only does this make for a smaller
fuel economy. These motors have
carbon footprint when the engine is
been around for years but have been
running (two-stroke or four-stroke),
shunned by anglers because they
but anglers spend more time poling
were way too heavy and many found
around in the shallows instead of
that their performance did not and
running around from spot to spot
still does not live up to those of the
which in turn, means less fuel burned
two-stroke outboards. Times are
and, fewer of our grass ďŹ&#x201A;ats being
changing though. Slowly but surely
damaged by propellers. Of course
the poor performing four-strokes are
this is a two for one when talking
being improved and beginning to win
about being environmentally friendly.
over anglers.
As for the â&#x20AC;&#x153;extreme green
Some anglers are reporting as
machineâ&#x20AC;?, it is hard to overlook one
much as a 30% reduction in fuel burn
of the fastest growing segments of
and a deďŹ nite reduction in the use of
the angling world. A great number
oil because they no longer have to
of saltwater anglers are turning to
mix oil into the fuel which was once
kayaks in order to get away from the
necessary when running two-stroke
crowds. And, well, it goes without
outboards. The result, reduction in
saying, that that is about as â&#x20AC;&#x153;greenâ&#x20AC;?
daily operation cost, a reduction
as an angler can get, especially if the
in emissions, and, you guessed it-
angler carpools down to the bay.
better ďŹ shing.
%& % 6 (
% & ;
! " # $ %& ' & ( & ( )
/ 0 1 ( 0 2 , 0 . 3 0 4
.(
-
.(
& & $
* & & $ + & (
, ( $
All the best in the new year and
Offshore anglers have, in the last
stuff like that!
couple of years, begun to see the and it is allowing them to travel further away from the crowds to the deeper, less pressured, fertile waters of the Gulf. A similar situation is happing in our bays. Many have opted to switch over from bay boats that run 150-250 hp
CONTACT
advantages of running four-strokes Capt. Scott Sommerlatte is a full time ďŹ&#x201A;y ďŹ shing and light tackle guide, freelance writer and photographer. Telephone 979-415-4379 Email vssommerlatte@hotmail.com Website www.scottsommerlatte.com
engines for much smaller technical
2 & , ,
( # 5 " # 6 , . 789 ( " & : (( . & . ; 2 & & . ( $ $ & . $ . $ 6 $ .
% 1
/ ! <! '! ! = & . $ . . . , ;
poling skiffs that operate on 60 hp Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
45
YOU T H F I S H I N G
TEX AS SALTWATER
Got Spare Time? Go Fishing! A A RON C I S N E RO S
It was a school day, and the time seemed to move so
tranquility of the surroundings. For a moment the silence
slowly. I think I was glancing at the clock every two minutes
came to a standstill while I was wading through the muddy
waiting for each class period to end. The day before my
bottom. I was suddenly startled by this loud boom of an
dad had gotten on some big trout, and he was headed out
explosion. My first reaction and thought was “what the heck
again in the afternoon. This time he invited me, but it meant
was that, and where did that come from?” Turning back
I had to miss out on my last period class. After some quick
I saw a high rise building and was reminded that it was
arrangements, I headed out the door and into my truck
being dismantled. That loud but distant bang just added to
looking forward to strapping on my waders and catching a
the magical evening. It was like nothing I have ever heard
few trout before the sun set. My dad was waiting for me as
especially out on the water. Just as soon as it came; it was
I quickly changed into my fishing clothes. Off we were, only
gone. I then refocused on trying to place every cast in the
a thirty minute ride to our desired spot. Along the way I had
right place.
the chance to share with my dad what my plans were after
That’s when it hit me. “Why was I here? Was I here just to
high school; that was pretty cool. However, in the back of
catch a fish or see how many I could catch before the sun
my mind was that big trout laying somewhere waiting for my
would set, or was it about the experience of the chase?” A
plug to come across its mouth. Once we put the boat in the
lot of things went though my mind. Suddenly, I stopped in
water, it wasn’t but a five minute ride across the bay. After
my muddy tracks and purposely looked all around me and
arriving I quickly jumped off the boat and headed in my own
saw the beauty of it all. The birds were trying to get their last
direction. The evening was a calm one, not a boat in site.
meal before the sun went down; I could hear trout chasing
The area looked very promising as slicks could be seen all
bait; a half dozen sheepshead were tailing on the shallow
around us. The mullet were doing their normal acrobatic
flats. I also spotted a couple of redfish cruising the shallows
jumps and an occasional, unusual splash could be heard as
ready and willing to crush anything that crossed their path. I
a mullet found itself in the jaws of a hungry trout.
thought to myself, “What an awesome place to be!” The end
The evening was magical, and I couldn’t get over the
of the evening was coming quick, and how I wish I had two more hours to enjoy this magical place and time. Before the evening was over, I was able to land a few solid trout. Nothing close to what I envisioned, but on this day size did not matter. The awesome sun set on the horizon put the finishing touch to a wonderful day and experience. Just think if you don’t make the time to fish, you will never see things set before you to enjoy. And enjoying the great outdoors is what I have been doing over the holidays. A few months back I wrote that I would be sharing my passion of fishing with my friends that normally don’t have a way of getting out there, and that I have done. My friends and I tried something new the other day; we took a bunch of bait and headed down to the Brownsville Ship Channel in search of whatever species would bite. We anchored and chunked dead shrimp off
Trying to get a few more casts before the sunset.
the bottom. The fishing turned out great! We caught a whole bunch of different species, and I could see that every one of my friends was having a blast. I
46
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
YOU T H F I S H I NG
THROUGH YOUTHFUL E Y E S This trout came into the author’s hand before the sun disappeared.
enjoyed it so much that I did it again, but this time I invited my ten year old cousin Trey Gonzales and a couple of my friends. As Trey was holding his rod, a fish pulled on his line so hard that the rod and reel was almost pulled out of his hands. After a long fight I helped him bring the fish in after he complained that his arms were tired. The fish turned out to be a keeper drum which he felt very proud of landing. As a matter of fact, my cousin Trey out fished my older friends on that day. It certainly felt good to be a part of someone’s success and memories that will remain forever. I understand that growing up is hard to do at my age, but I have come to learn that life is a cycle of passing on what someone else has taught you. I’m certainly glad that I’m able to do this through my passion of fishing on my spare time. So if you have some spare time, Go Fishing!
Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
47
E V E R Y M A N ’ S OF F S HOR E
The Art of Amberjacking I didn’t think I
RU BE N V I L L A R R E A L
would ever see the
job. The low gear works well for
baiting and jigging make the top of
torque, and the high gear is great for
the list as the most popular ways to
day when regular
retrieving
pursue these fish. When it comes to
snapper closings
live bait
using live bait for amberjack, bigger
were a way off life for offshore
rigs or lures
and livelier is better depending
bottom fishing. I definitely didn’t
from the
the size of amberjack you are
expect an amberjack closing, but on
deep. Many
targeting. A basic list of baits from
October 23, 2009, that very closing
brands,
small to large includes piggy perch,
happened. The feds proclaimed
such as
croakers, b-liners, blue runners,
that the recreational anglers had
Shimano
bluefish, bonito, and rainbow
reached their quota, and for the
(Tiagra 16,
runners. Many of the live baits that
first time in history, harvesting
TLD 20 and
are good for amberjack can be
amberjack came to a close for
30 2-speed
caught using sabiki rigs; others just
the rest of the year. With a closed
and the new
need a small hook on the end of
harvest on red snapper in federal
Talica 16
your main line with a dead squid or a
waters, amberjack would usually fill
and 12), are now available that fit the
fresh sardine. A standard amberjack
the difference in the cooler when
bill for this job. Also, Daiwa offers
live-bait rig consists of an egg sinker
offshore anglers ventured far out for
the new Saltist two-speed line, and
(which varies in weight due to the
deep-water groupers. Though they
Avet has the popular LX and HXW
live bait size and the water current)
won’t be filling the hole this winter,
two-speed models. A reel that can
that rides on top of a barrel swivel
amberjack fishing will reopen in
achieve a
with about 3-5
the spring. In preparation for that
drag setting
feet of heavy
opening, I would like to share a
over 25
mono leader
certain art to this sport that will land
pounds or
material (100-
you a delicious meal.
better is a
250#). You can
When fishing for these rig
good start.
use a variety of
donkeys, make sure you eat your
Heavy mono
hooks with this
Wheaties because landing one
line of 60-
setup, including
isn’t for the faint of heart or muscle.
80# tests is
the circle hook,
Since amberjack fight so well and
a must, and
O’Shaughnessy
hang out by some kind of structure,
if you choose
hook, live bait
such as wrecks, oil rigs/pipe
spectra line, go with 80-150#. The
hook, or the 4x strong Octopus
stands, and rocks, I would suggest
rod should be a stand up or heavy
hook. Make sure you hook your live
a compact two-speed reel for the
jigging type that is six feet or less
baits closer to the head rather than
in order to apply
the tail because fish go for the head
maximum leverage on
of the bait, so you will set the hook
the fish. This keeps
deeper than if you hook the bait near
their heads from
the tail.
barreling down, so
tea, or you just have trouble catching
a structure and break
live bait, another option is to use a
the line.
buck-tail jig and a metal jig to entice
Once you have the
48
January 2010
Now, if live bait isn’t your cup of
they can’t power into
strikes. I would suggest different
right rod and reel,
sizes to compensate for the current;
you need to choose a
you never know if it is flowing hard
bait. There are many
or slack, so be prepared for either.
options, although live
A 3-6oz buck-tail jig from Spro, in
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
E V E R Y M A N ’ S OF F S HOR E
any of the various colors, works well when tipped with a Spanish sardine. Metal jigs do not need any bait on them. If you put bait on them, they usually don’t swim very well when you retrieve. Buck-tail jigs are used in slower presentations; just let the lure fall slowly and flutter. Use small, sharp jerks followed by a pause to let
should be fished through the entire water column to draw
the jig slowly
strikes. Lures are fished this way because you don’t want to
fall again. Metal jigs also fall on the descent, but they can be
stop the metal jig in front of an amberjack. You want it to be
raced back up to the boat at a blazing clip to get hammered
racing by so it imitates a fleeing baitfish. If you are using live
by an amberjack.
bait, have a pitch rod ready with just a hook tied on the end,
You have the equipment. Now you need the spot.
or have a leader with a hook, but no weight, tied on the end,
Structure makes all the difference in the world when trying to
so live bait won’t have any drag on it. I’ve seen big, hooked
box a limit of these fish, so start at wrecks, rigs, and rocks to
amberjack come to the surface with curious schoolmates in
find some fast action. If you are lucky enough to have good
tow, and live bait was absolutely devoured instantly simply
live bait, then your first stop when targeting these brutes
by having a pitch rod ready.
should be half to 3/4 of the way down the water column; lures
Now you know the art to amberjacking!
tired of missing the best fishing times? know when to go!
for XP & Vista Ask any tournament fisherman or professional guide how important understanding catch conditions are. They will tell you catching fish is not a random process. Understanding the conditions your target species is looking for and repeating those tactics, are paramount to success. Conditional analysis is invaluable in establishing consistency and success on the water. Coastal saltwater fishing is all about being at the right place at the right time. Wouldn’t it be great to be able to plan your trips around tide conditions that have historically brought you success?
Now you can fine tune your fishing! Plan your trip, analyze your success, tune your fishing strategies, log your trips & uncover conditional trends by site and species. Understand your target species like never before with this revolutionary catch-analysis software – The Fishermans Analyst.
US tide strength & flow prediction - trip journal - catch analysis - trip planner
it works...
Ask for The Fishermans Analyst software at your sports super store or order online at
www.. hird o of .co 1 888 8 61-22 221 1 www.thirdstonesoft.com 1-888-361-2221 Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
49
T S F M AG A Z I N E S P O T L IG H T
TS F M AG A Z I N E S P O T L IG H T
Kroll’s Marine Still operating in its original location at 2409 Avenue M in Rosenberg, Texas, Kroll’s Marine has been a family-owned and operated full-service boat and outboard motor dealer since 1972. Susan Euton, originally Susan Kroll, along with husband Charlie Euton, are the second generation owners and have been active in the business since their teen years. Susan began helping her father who founded the enterprise with office work and bookkeeping. Charlie came to Kroll’s a short time later for Evinrude service training while employed as an outboard mechanic for a cousin’s shop. Susan says she probably had something to do with Charlie becoming a full-time employee, “We met when Dad brought Charlie home for lunch one day and we’ve been together ever since.”
In the beginning, Kroll’s Marine was an outboard service shop and soon Mr. Kroll was offered an Evinrude franchise. Recognizing the potential for growth, he added boat lines. The foundation of the enterprise has always been fair dealing, exceptional customer relations during and after the sale, along with technically expert outboard engine service and boat and trailer maintenance. Charlie is a certified master mechanic for the Evinrude brand and has received factory training and certification from Yamaha. Charlie’s team in the
50
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
Kroll’s service shop includes two full-time technicians who have also received factory training and earned certification to service Yamaha and Evinrude brand outboards. Over the years Charlie and his crew have won numerous manufacturer’s awards along with the loyalty of a large customer base for their quick response and quality workmanship. Product lines offered by Kroll’s Marine include the Evinrude and Yamaha outboards, Blue Wave, AlumaCraft, Alweld and Ultra-Cat boats, along with accessory lines from Lowrance, Power Pole, Motor Guide and Minnkota. Susan and Charlie stress that customers today expect to receive not only great prices on boats and motors but excellent service they can count on in short order when they encounter problems. “Nobody wants their boat in the shop when they want to go fishing,” they say. “We can not only perform computeraided diagnostics, we have a test tank where we can run the motors under load to discover and correct tough and tricky engine problems. A quick trip to the bay enables our technicians to accompany customers anytime they might be experiencing operating difficulties that occur only at high speed.” A quick visit to Kroll’s Marine convinces first-time buyers
that they can place their trust in the Kroll’s team and longtime repeat customers are the backbone of their business. Give them a call at 281-342-4461 or visit their website www. krollsmarine.com to learn more. Charlie and Susan along their team of nine full-time staff are anxious to meet you.
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
Advanced Trophy Trout Tactics is a 65- minute instructional DVD which offers detailed advice on how to catch big trout on artificial lures. To preview and/or purchase, visit www.fishbaffinbay.com, or call 361-688-3714.
“I received the DVD and give you an A+ on all segments.” ~Steven Copeland
Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
51
New Tackle & Gear Surfango
Livingston Lures Lipless Crank Baits
Specialty Aluminum Works
www.texassurfango.com
www.livingstonlures.com
www.specialtyalworks.com
The Surfango Hawaii GT motorized kayak may be the most versatile watercraft on the market today. Using a 9.5 hp 4 stroke, electric start engine, this kayak can run in a few inches of water at speeds over 25mph. Surfango uses “closed loop” cooling - no saltwater runs through the engine. It uses jet-drive propulsion, so nothing protrudes below the hull. It simply pulls in bay water and blasts it out the back. This allows you to run very shallow without disturbing seagrass, and then paddle shallow as well.
Check out the hottest lipless crank baits to hit the market in the past 20 years. These are “Water Activated” baits that mimic the sounds made by injured bait fish. As most anglers know, that’s what gets gamefish excited and drives them into a feeding frenzy in a hurry. These are sleek and finely tuned baits designed to provide endless hours of fishing excitement. Regardless of season, lipless crankbaits will produce positive results throughout the year. The assortment of colors and sizes provide for both saltwater and freshwater application. Don’t short yourself, tie one on and let the fish take you for a ride.
Specialty Aluminum Works (SAW) of Victoria, TX announces its new lineup of custom manufactured boat trailers. GALVANIZED Standard Equipment Hot-dip galvanized steel throughout, Accu-Lube spindles, all galvanized u-bolts and hardware, adjustable flat or swivel bolster brackets and treated lumber.
ALUMINUM Standard Equipment All Stainless Hardware Stainless fasteners throughout and ½” Stainless U-bolts, torsion axles with removable spindles, aluminum braces at all cross-member points, fender braces, poly skid plates, two bends in main beam for strength, PVC driveon guides, galvanized wheels & tires, swivel jack, aluminum tongue, AccuLube spindles.
Surfango is controlled by joystick steering with trigger-type throttle. Surfango is a very user-friendly machine that will make you smile every time you head toward the backcountry to chase redfish!
52
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
SIMMS
Eichorn, Gonzales, & Miller
Rapala X-Rap SubWalk and X-Rap Walk
www.simmsfishing.com
www.egmjewelers.com
www.rapala.com
Simms new G3 waders incorporate 5-layer and 3-layer GORE-TEX® Pro Shell fabric technology along with patented front and back leg seam construction for enhanced articulation, comfort and durability. The new G3 also includes patented built-in Guide Model Gravel Guards, exterior chest pocket with zippered closure to hold tackle. The fleecelined hand warmer pocket with DWR treatment is great for the really cold days. Flip-out Tippet Tender pocket includes patented builtin retractor and the low profile belt loops accommodate a 2” wading belt. The new G3 wader easily converts to waist highs. Nylon wading belt & repair kit included. Every pair manufactured in Bozeman, Montana.
Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Eichorn Gonzales & Miller Fine Jewelers at 6605 North Navarro Street in Victoria, Texas is your headquarters for custom-handcrafted fish art jewelry. Their staff of certified, highly trained and experienced craftsman offer an uncommon array of very “fishy” works that you can wear with pride and distinction. The detail and craftsmanship they incorporate in every piece reflects their passion for saltwater fishing. Eichorn Gonzales & Miller also offer an assortment of wildlife jewelry for anglers who enjoy Texas hunting as much as fishing. You are invited to drop in and browse or schedule an appointment with Wayne and Duane Gonzales to discuss how they can create truly “one-off” custom art jewelry that will be sure to please. Give them a call at 361 573 0647 or visit their store on your next trip through Victoria.
Texas Saltwater Fishing
X-Rap SubWalk Walk the dog just below the surface. Like its bigger brothers, the smaller X-Rap SubWalk 07 measures 2 3/4 inches and weighs 3/8 ounce. Twelve X-Rap finishes, including Hot Pink and Red Ghost, combined with sinking-on-the-pause action, will ensure anglers feel the power of this new size. Equipped with VMC® Black Nickel Belly Hook and VMC SureSet® Flash Feather Teaser Tail, and anglers will be setting the hook. Suggested retail $9.49 X-Rap Walk Rapala makes walking the dog easy with the X-Rap Walk, now in sizes, 09 and 11. Walk 09 is 3 1/2 inches and weighs 9/16 ounce. X-Rap Walk 11 is 4 3/8 inches and weighs 7/8 ounce. Equipped with VMC Black Nickel Belly hook and rear VMC SureSet Flash Feather Teaser Tail, plus eight new color patterns, anglers are sure to set the hook. Suggested retail $9.49 – $10.99.
January 2010
53
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
While the fishing in
Sabine Scene
flats that traditionally do not heat up until early December.
general on Sabine Lake over
Because the water was still in the mid-60’s, topwaters like
the past month has been
the noisy She Dog and more subtle Top Dog Jr were fooling
even better than anticipated,
the largest of the trout. When the fish will only slap at those
it has been especially good
choices, a MirrOlip crankbait or a Yo-Zuri jerkbait will usually
for determined anglers
seal the deal.
willing to brave the elements
As the surface temperature continues to slide downward,
for multiple swings at trout in
topwaters have given way to Corkys and suspending mullet
excess of 27-inches. .
imitations like the Catch V and the MirrOdine XL. The jerk baits
The big trout bite actually started even earlier, but the handful of anglers already taking advantage of it found it easy to keep it quiet due to a phenomenal bite under the birds
are still deadly during the warmest hours of the day, especially when you fish them with a jerk-pause-jerk retrieve that keeps them just below the surface. The Fat Boy and Corky Devil in pink, day glow, and
that refuses to end. A mixture of slot reds and trout up to four
strawberry-black will get it done most days. The best colors for
pounds still banging away at the last of the shrimp migration
us in the suspending baits have been electric chicken, bone-
continues to draw the most attention from local anglers.
black back, and gold with a chartreuse back and belly. When
As early as mid-November, anglers with trophy trout on the brain were already taking fish up to seven pounds off shallow
the water is exceptionally dirty, we have saved a number of trips with both the Corky and Catch V in black-chartreuse. The flats on the north end recover the quickest regardless of how dirty or cold the water is due to the close proximity of the ICW. The fish simply ease off into warmer depths supporting sufficient salinity and suspend until hunger
54
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
S A BI N E Dr. Bill Wood turned his red loose after a quick photo for the folks back home in Chicago.
help with the loss of tails, but your rattle will stay in place. Last January, desperate to ust could not keep clients in the game that just fish a Corky slow enough, I stumbled onto a technique that has proven to be the real deal. I tie the Corky on an 18-inch leader and let them fish it under a Bass Assassin Kwik Cork. The clicking noise may help as well, but more importantly, they are keeping their lure in the strike zone and catching fish! I have already had several clients catch their personal bests under the Cork. Every body of water fishes a little differently, but here on Sabine, the three largest of those fish ate a Corky Devil. The original Corky, however, has produced the most fish. You can outsmart a big trout time and again, but you can only kill her once!
Brad Deslatte gives another solid trout a second chance.
pangs necessitate a brief shallow water foray. On even the rawest of days, at least a few trout worthy of your personal discomfort will be on the prowl. The single biggest mistake made by visiting anglers is avoiding a promising area due to the lack of water clarity this time of the year. Our water is never very clear under the best of circumstances as you can usually track coons in three feet of water well into March on Sabine. The solution, aside from developing a little confidence, is to slow down your retrieve, stick with darker colors and larger profile lures, and take advantage of both rattles and spray-on scents. Fishing a quality braided line will also help in detecting the most subtle of strikes. I added two techniques to my winter fishing arsenal last year that have already served me well so far this year. When swimming a longer plastic like the 5-inch Assassin Shad or MirrOlure soft-mullet, I soak it with Bang garlic scent and add a glass rattle to my jig head. I initially inserted the rattle into the plastic body, but I would lose one every time a fish ripped the body off of the jig head. A better solution was attaching the rattle to the shank of the hook with electrical connection shrink wrap tubing. It won’t Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
55
Special Moments Dear TSFMag, I thoroughly enjoy your magazine and cannot wait to receive it each month. I have been noticing the photos of kids in the magazine and thought I’d pass along some of my daughter’s first fishing trip. Her name is Cadence Figeley and she is fourteen months old. We live in La Porte and we were fishing at Seabrook. Cadence’s first fish was the croaker in the photos. As you might guess I am very proud of my little angler. Kevin Figeley
Dear TSFMag, This is Nathan Cruz, one year ten months old (still in pampers), catching his first fish at Six Mile near Port Lavaca, Texas. The fish was released unharmed. Annette Cruz
Dear TSFMag, I’m sending a photo of my grandson’s first saltwater fishing adventure. His name is Tripp Edwards. To say the least he had a blast and cannot wait to go again. I have decided a subscription to your magazine would make a perfect birthday gift and I have a very special favor to ask of you. After talking with my son and Tripp’s mom, we think it would be great if Tripp would find his photo in the first issue he receives. Maybe we are hoping for too much, but we cannot wait to see the smile this will bring. Thanks for publishing a great fishing magazine. Proud and excited grandmother, Doreen Edwards
56
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
COASTAL BEND MARINE DEALERS BOAT SHOW & SALE Join us for the 53rd Annual Coastal Bend Marine Dealers Boat Show & Sale January 22-24, 2010, in Corpus Christi’s American Bank Convention Center. See what’s new in boating and fishing for 2010. Ten boat dealers and seventy-five booth vendors will display everything needed to equip you for the coming boating season. The show offers great deals, easy financing, and plenty of fun all under one roof. There will be daily seminars on fishing, boating and kayaking as well as cooking demonstrations. The participating boat dealers are giving away hourly door prizes including rods and reels, fishing tackle, dining certificates, guided fishing trips and more. Admission: Adults - $7.00 Children - $3.00 (11 yrs and younger) Show hours: Friday 1-8pm, Saturday 10am -8pm, Sun 11am5pm For more information visit our website: www.ccboatshow. com or call Brenda Huff - Coastal Bend Marine Dealers Association 361.991.0369
Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
57
MICKEY
On Galveston
It is holiday time again. I hope everybody had a Merry Christmas and is
birds working throughout the middle of the bay and along the reefs on the west side. Personally, I prefer not to work birds much because of
looking forward to a Happy
the traffic. You have to fight people to get to ‘em. I have
New Year, and I hope your
been sticking to a mud and shell pattern for about three
fishing is as good as ours
weeks now and I plan to continue on through January. For
because it has just been
this style, I start at about two feet deep, working my way
impeccable. East and Trinity
out as the sun gets higher and fish roll off of the flats while
Bay are red hot right now.
monitoring the tides. If you have a good incoming tide, fish
There are lots of fish being
tend to stay along shallow breaks, ledges, and drop offs.
caught in all sizes, from
Swimming baits such as the Sea Shad or the Norton Bull
schoolies under the birds
Minnow have definitely been the key to success. The bigger
to good seven and eight
fish seem to have abandoned the shrimp diet and moved on
pounders on the flats. We
to mullet and shad. The little fish are the ones still out in the
had a lot fresh water in
middle, chasing what is left of small shrimp under the birds.
Trinity Bay, a little over a
Occasionally, you will catch a trout with a big mullet or shad
month’s worth of pretty good river flow. That flushed out all
in it, which gives you some insight into the change of diet.
the backwaters, pushed the fish down to the southern end
For the most part, the trout we have been catching range
of the bay, and created a pretty good stack up in the middle.
from 18-24 inches. On really good days, we’ll release ten or
Some days there would be literally 50-100 different flocks of
so fish over 24-25 inches. We don’t keep those big ones.
58
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
G A LV E S TON ON
Overall, Trinity Bay fishing is very good. The water looks
d front and East bays. If we get a good cold
bad on top, but the area where the birds are working is clean
ow 50s for that cools the water down into the low
and green underneath. We can see it in our prop wash. I
a couple of days, we are going to have some pretty good
think the Trinity River, at its highest stage, was coming about
action using 52m MirrOlures over the reefs in 6-8 feet of
70,000 cubic feet per second out of the dam. That was two
water. Working a slow presentation with Corkys over that
weeks ago; now, it is down to about 12,000, which is still
deep shell could produce some pretty big trout in the next
tolerable. For more than a month, it ran over 35,000 cubic
week or so. The rest of December and the beginning of the
feet; we received a lot of water in that time. Since we were
New Year look good. I think our fishing is going to hold until
so salty from the drought, though, it mixed in pretty well, and
early January, and then it will just be the hard-core grinders
the bay will continue to improve as these competing northers
that do their winter gig in late January and February. Right
and south winds churn the waters, mixing them back into
now, I just can’t believe how many fish are being caught.
normal levels. The trout are well into their winter patterns,
I knew we had a lot of fish; I just didn’t know we had this
unbothered by the weather, and it looks like we have a
many. All walks of life are catching them, from complete
great winter ahead of us, unless we’re surprised by some
novice anglers up to professionals. Everybody is catching
extremely cold weather, but I don’t foresee that.
fish, and that is a good sign. It is good for the economy
As for the back bays, there are a few fish starting to
around here.
show up in Burnett, Scott, and San Jacinto bays, but none to write home about. It hasn’t gotten cold enough to force those fish up the ship channel into the warmer bays. In
Have a very Happy New Year, and I hope you are catching fish. See you next month.
East bay, birds are working an identical pattern to Trinity – down the middle, from the Refuge towards the south end, and along Hannah’s Reef. The north and south shorelines are holding some pretty good fish in shallow water, as is
GOT
the Refuge. A lot of kayak and lake fisherman go to the Refuge and they are catching a fair number of fish. No big ones reported yet, however.
GET THE...
There is a big row boiling in my backyard about the closing of Rollover Pass. A lot of people have jumped on that bandwagon. They are voicing their opinions to Jerry Patterson, our Texas land commissioner. As yet, there is no resolution, but it is an important issue. We do not want that pass closed up into the back of East Bay from the gulf. We don’t agree with the reasoning behind this decision either:
A SHALLOW WATER ANCHORING SYSTEM THAT CAN BE MOUNTED TO YOUR DECK OR ANY TRANSOM ANGLE.
F ast - Quiet - S trong
erosion on the Bolivar beachfront, silting in the Intra-Coastal Waterway behind the beachfront, maintenance costs, and other issues. It is a proven fact that the Bolivar beachfront has been eroding 5 feet per year for the last 100 years. That is just part of living on the coast. They are just going to plug up a great fish pass and there are probably more big trout caught at Rollover Pass in the summer than anywhere else on the upper Texas coast. It will kill the place; people have been fishing there since the mid-1950s, and many are really up in the air about it.
For more information go to
www.StickItAnchorPins.com
Despite this worry, fishing is good. As we get into slightly
or call 941-815-6875
colder temperatures, the MirrOlure and Corky type baits will start working, especially over the deep shell reefs in Trinity Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
59
CAPT. BILL’S
Fish Talk
January can prove a great month for fishing if you keep
2-3 days after it crosses the coastline is usually your best bet for fishing success.
on top of your game. Usually
History dictates that fishing the Diversion Channel or the
cold, sometimes the coldest
Colorado River this time of year can be entertaining if you are
month of the year, but trout
able to subtract the fresh water element. If not inundated with
and reds do eat this time of
freshwater, you should focus on the ledges and drop-offs coming
year as part of their basic
from the banks. Try fishing the bends in the river, sandbars, and
survival plan. However, a
even at times the middle of the river. There has been many a
full-course meal is not a
trout caught in these areas during January. Another preference
daily routine. Trout being
of mine is fishing a falling tide in the river using plastics on 1/4 oz
cold-blooded with their body
or 3/8 oz lead heads. Corkys and Broken Backs will also produce
temperature same as the
on the ledges. Your retrieve must be slow and I mean really slow
water temperature must be
if you are serious about your time on the water. Try to remember
factored into fishing tactics
your retrieve on the first fish that you catch and repeat it.
such as where to fish, how to fish, and when to fish. Personal experience favors a new and full moon phase
East Matagorda Bay is another place to camp out. For wade fishermen, even though it may not sound enticing, look for mud with some deep water and local shell close by. Shell and mud
because of the tidal flow. Granted, tides under these phases may
are constant companions this time of year. Shell will hold baitfish
not be as strong as in the spring or fall months, but will be the
and the temperature in the mud will be 1-2 degrees warmer than
strongest out of the month. Fishing before a cold front or maybe
the middle of the bay. Over the years, I have witnessed big
60
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
M ATAG OR DA trout along muddy
Robert Bird - 27” trout caught and released - roach Saltwater Assassin.
Many times after a strong
shorelines in the
cold front, reds will become very
middle of the day
active along shorelines over in West
soaking up sun
ater Matagorda Bay, especially if all our water
rays to keep warm.
falls out. Finding these fish in skinny water can
It’s a sight to see.
sometimes be as easy as catching a glimpse of their backs
Practice on pearl
sticking out above the surface. Try to fish the sandbars and
chartreuse Corkies,
guts in between. Plastics will be the bait of choice here. Also,
Fat Boys, and Bass
remember to wear your ForEverLast stingray boots. Sometimes
Assassins.
fishermen get lazy in winter and believe that just because
Drift fishing over
the water is cold the stingrays will be far from the shorelines
mud and scattered
in deep water. Don’t fall for it. You won’t see as many during
shell can also prove
the winter months as you do in summer but I can promise that
effective while you
gravitating towards the safe side is much better than a trip to the
are out there with
emergency room.
jumping mullet and
Typical forecasts portray January as the possible coldest
off-colored streaky
month of the year; however, this is only a forecast and
water. Slicks in the
sometimes is off. If you look at how the present year has played
water will be signals
out, January could be up for grabs, possibly in the 70s and
of fish feeding on mullet. As these feeding fish begin burping,
even the 80s, who knows? Hoping everyone out there has an
the slicks will smell strong and be very noticeable which signals
awesome Christmas and New Years, a great deer season, and
fish in the area. Focus on long drifts perhaps 1/8 to 1/4 mile as
good fortune in 2010.
your norm.
God Bless…Capt. Bill
Boats’ Boats’
New Houston New Houston Dealer Dealer
www.coastalbackwatermarine.com Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
61
PAID ADVERTISEMENT
Serena Residences Mazatlan, Mexico.- From October 29th to 31st Mazatlan
Many people came from different countries around the
hosted the XVIII Big Game World Championship Tournament
world to witness this important event, including Joe Habib and
organized by the direction of the International Confederation of
company from San Diego, CA. They also selected to fish with
Sport Fishing at Sea (FIPS-M), a world-wide organization that
Serena Sport Fishing’s Captain Louis who led them to land a
supports conservation of fisheries and the competitiveness of
409-pound blue marlin. They described their experience as, “all
big game angling and the International Sport Fishing Federation
of our fishing dreams came true at Serena Residences.”
(CIPS). For the first time in its history this tournament was celebrated outside of the old continent to catapult Mazatlan as
Fishing Report by Joe Habib
the sportfishing capital of the world.
Meet our new friend “Lady Blue” a 409.2 pound blue marlin. Serena Residences hosted a special welcome dinner for the participants from 22 countries. Fishermen experienced the
Here’s the story..... We woke up at 5:30 am, more than refreshed after a relaxing
extraordinary service and a variety of dishes including seared
night’s sleep in an exquisite Serena Residences condominium.
tuna tostadas, oysters au gratin, duck tacos among others.
We head downstairs to the marina and waiting for us, ready to go, is Captain Louis of ‘The Serena’, a 26 Ft Glacier Bay fishing catamaran. He took us out in the beautiful water of the Pacific Ocean at 6:00 am on the morning of October 29th, 2009 with the promise of catching a monster blue marlin. We shrugged it off and would be ecstatic with a catch of that stature but would have been more than happy to just catch a few dorado, maybe even a sail fish but sure enough, because of Capt. Louis’ 20 plus years experience in Pacific waters, at 9:37 am the reel goes screaming out of control. We set the hook and we were definitely not prepared for the next 3 hours and 50 minutes. We finally won the fight and boated her after nearly a
The Swiss team chose Serena Residences (www. serenaresidences.com) to stay and relax before the tournament. The team selected one of our very own skilled and experienced
four hour fight. Oh, did I mention the unbelievable ceviche and agua chile the kitchen staff prepared for us with our own catch?. Truly the experience of a lifetime, top rate accommodations
guides, Captain Louis, from Serena Sport Fishing (www.
and service. If you want to feel like you have a second home in
serenasportfishing.com). They landed eight mahi mahi and one
Mazatlan then, Serena Residences is the only place to be!
sail fish during their first day.
62
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
Simms Stockingfoot Gore-Tex® Waders Great gear for winter angling Anybody who has ever suffered a
season approaching I toughed it out
cold fishing day in a pair of leaky
and, in my normal procrastinating
waders will be quick to agree; it’s
fashion, hung them in the closet
no fun. Winter is the prime time for
and forgot about the leaks.
trophy trout and the days following the harshest blasts from the north are often the best. Trouble is, when
was unpacking a shipment from
the water temperature dips into the 50s
Simms and I told him I was due for
and the high for the day only reaches
another pair and Chris inquired about
the 40s, hooking and landing that
my old ones. “Send them back,”
trophy means being able to endure
he said, “Simms has an excellent
inclement conditions until that trophy
service department and unless they
decides it’s time to eat. None of us
are beyond repair you’ll get ‘em back
are supermen and the discomfort,
good as new.” Well, long story short,
if not the very real threat of
I did, and they did. Three more years
hypothermia, means we need the
of service has finally helped me
best gear available.
decide I shouldn’t push my luck, so I
The grey in my beard tells you that my experience with waders began way before the products we know and trust today were even
began this year in a brand-spanking new pair of Simms G4Z waders. I haven’t figured out which of the many features I like best; the
dreamed of, let alone available. I remember all too well shivering in
zippered front makes them easy on and off and easier to answer Nature’s
leaky rubber bootfoot waders that
call, the front and back leg seams offer
never wanted to stay on my feet in sticky mud. We tried everything to stop them leaking and slipping off our feet. I
greater range of leg motion without binding, the handwarmer pockets are really cool, and the anatomically correct
can remember patching new leaks G4Z Waders
About midsummer that year, Chris Phillips at Fishing Tackle Unlimited
booties offer “house slipper” comfort.
at lunch time and my dad even
Best of all I think I like the fact that they
devised a set of boot straps we’d
are the most comfortable wader I’ve ever
G3 Waders
fasten around our ankles to address the mud-sticking problem.
worn and the fact that they are the only brand made right here
But to be honest, none of this worked all that well.
in the good ol’ USA in Bozeman, Montana just puts icing on the
The dawning of the neoprene age came like a godsend to
cake. Check them out at www.simmsfishingproducts.com for a
wintertime wader wearers but only with partial relief. Any amount
full rundown of features along with other styles available.
of exertion in neoprene left us as damp inside as if the darn things leaked. Then came breatheables and we were all hot
Simms dealers in Texas
to trot; trouble was the early offerings just flat lacked durability
Angler’s Edge – 5000 Westheimer – Houston
and the number of truly dry trips might be counted on one hand
Backwoods Equipment – Ft. Worth
before they took on the qualities of a sieve.
Cabela’s – Buda and Ft. Worth
Seven years ago I purchased my first pair of Simms stockingfoot
Fishing Tackle Unlimited/Cut Rate – two locations in Houston
breatheable waders. I thought I died and went to Heaven. I wore
The Tackle Box – Victoria
those waders for countless days in my fishing and waterfowl
Gruene Outfitters – New Braunfels
guiding endeavors, sometimes every day for weeks on end. After
Living Waters Fly Fishing – Round Rock
several years, you guessed it, they finally got a bit leaky and I decided it was time for a new pair. But with the end of wader Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
- Everett Johnson Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
63
MID-COAST BAYS “The older you get, the
CAPT. SHELLIE GRAY
With the Grays
truly a blessing. Unfortunately, the rain seems always to be
faster time flies!” My mom
accompanied by a cold front, so there have been quite a few
would often quote that
cancelled trips due to howling north winds that were a little
phrase to me when I was an
on the cool side for us southern coastal folks. After the fronts
impatient youngster. Back
passed, though, the weather stabilized and we went right back
then, I would just roll my
out to our fishing adventures. Sunny days and lower water levels
eyes and tell myself that my
that come a couple of days after a front moves through can
mom couldn’t possibly know
make for some awesome sight casting!
what I was going through.
The trout in our area have been holding over shell at the time
Now that I am older, I know
of this article, and while we have been catching a lot of trout,
those words couldn’t be
most have been on the small side with few stretching past 18
more true. 2009 passed in
inches. We will continue to concentrate our fishing efforts over
the blink of an eye, and it
shell near deeper water. However, fishing in one of our muddy-
is really hard to believe we
bottom back lakes will be essential if you’re looking for larger
are bringing in the new year
trout, those trout that most people seek out in hopes of landing
of 2010.
their personal best.
Fishing here on the mid-coast has improved
For catching those personal bests, Bass Assassins’ soft plastics in either pumpkinseed/chartreuse or Texas Roach have
with the coming of the new year, a fact that can probably be
been yielding good results. When fishing over shell, I prefer
attributed to the abundance of rainfall we have had this winter.
to rig my plastics with a 1/16-ounce Jighead. I am still using
With the drought we had this past summer, this wetness is
64
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
P OR T O’CON NOR / S E A DR I F T scented baits, as well, when the fishing slows up, and I have
and subsequently safer, route. There
Berkley Gulp Jerkshad in the sardine color on hand at all times.
e are fewer boats on the water this time
If using artificial baits is not your preference, a live shrimp under
ne to of year, so you might not find someone
a rattling cork produces good results. However, live shrimp at
render aid until after you have spent a cold night
small-town bait stands may be hard to come by as we get into
out on the water (unless, of course, you have deep pockets and
the colder part of winter when fewer shrimp are being caught.
can call out for a tow boat).
A chilly water tip: when fishing in the colder weather, you
Gary and I want to wish everyone a Happy New Year! May
can improve your odds of hooking up if you work your baits at
2010 bring you Happiness and Success and be filled with
a slower pace. The colder water temperatures can cause fish
Peace, Hope, and Togetherness with your Family & Friends.
to become lethargic, so fishing a slower retrieve entices those hesitant fish into Expect high winds and rough water as cold fronts blow through.
biting because less effort on their part is needed. Since some of the baitfish are moving out to deeper water during this cold weather, redfish are going to be more willing to accept most offerings. A lot of grass has started to die off, as well, and is now less of a problem than it was this past summer. Like the big trout, expect redfish to remain in the back lakes. Quarter and half ounce gold spoons along with Mann’s Bait Waker in the croaker color will be my bait of choice when fishing for the big brutes. A word of caution: most of our back lakes are shallow and can be motored into safely with shallow water boats, but if a strong cold front moves through our area, you should always expect the water levels to drop quickly due to strong north winds. During these times, every boat operator should use caution when venturing into some of the shallower lakes. If you ever have doubts about whether or not your boat can make it through the shallow water, it is probably better to take a deeper,
Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
65
HOOKED UP WITH DAVID ROWSEY David Rowsey has 20 years experience in the Laguna/Baffin region; trophy trout with artificial
Rowsey
By the time this article
some room to get out of the boat in those new Simms waders we
reaches your hands I will
found under the tree.
have landed four trout over
January can be one of the most glorious months of the year
ten pounds. Not really, but
for the actual catching of giant trout in the Baffin and Upper
that is what I was wishing
Laguna region. Yes, it gets down right nasty at times when
and encourages catch and
for this Christmas. Since
you consider the weather, but the rewards can be worth it.
release of trophy fish.
Santa does not much care
January will bring us some of the coldest water temperatures
for forty year olds, I’ll just
of the season, and along with that the large trout will be
have to stick with the rest of
seeking out the warmest winter spots available that have a
you in breaking New Year
sufficient bait supply.
lures is his specialty. David has a great passion for conservation
361-960-0340 www.DavidRowsey.com
resolutions and putting on winter fat. I hope this finds y’all enjoying the holiday season,
Traditional spots will certainly produce some fish, but with the growing numbers of boats and fishermen on the bay every winter, “traditional” implies no guarantee. In fact, some of
eating too much, and getting prepared for the opening of big
these areas see so much pressure that the trout will relocate
trout season.
to deeper structure within a relatively close proximity, and only
The first part of December was a vast improvement over
utilize the wadeable water during the cover of darkness. I have
November, as the exceptionally high tides receded and gave us
found this to be increasingly true over the past two years. I am not recommending or trying to encourage anyone to fish at night. It can be very dangerous if you are not intimately familiar with the bay. Locating trophy quality fish, that no one else is aware of, takes time. A willingness to venture outside of your comfort
66
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
U PPE R L AG U N A / B A F F I N
zone, and sacrificing bites is essential when exploring new
Multiply that two or three over many years ears in
areas in the winter time. As long as I have been doing this
a bay system, and you will soon have a serious
down here, I am still amazed at how much water I have failed to
winter fall back plan that keeps you away from community
utilize. Remembering some little muddy area that you found in
holes, and outside of peering eyes and guys chasing the bent
the summer that was spotted with grass beds, and where you
pole pattern. Jay Watkins said it best to me many years ago,
caught a few dinks may pay great dividends when the water
way before I was guiding, “Show me a guide that fishes the
temperatures sustain in the 50’s without pumping southeast
same spots everyday, and I’ll show you one who will be selling
winds. By trial and error, I have learned to try and retry these
encyclopedias by next year.” He’s right! Grinders need to read
fishy areas in different conditions until something big happens.
between the lines. That statement was made about guides but
They will not all produce, but every year I will find that two or
applies to anyone who has a passion to be a better fisherman.
three of them will produce under certain weather patterns.
Key strategies for January will be mud and grass. I prefer areas of Baffin or the King Ranch shoreline that offer broken bottoms, exposing a mixture of the two. Some of the coldest mornings will find heavy trout within a few feet of the shorelines trying their best to absorb some warmth that the exposed ground has absorbed. Of course, boats running too close to the shorelines can spoil miles of fishing water for all of us, so be aware of traffic flow, and plan on moving offshore to similar structure if you have the unfortunate luck to be sharing the bay with these inconsiderate morons. Yes, I feel strongly about the subject. There is simply no need for any boat to be within 200 yards of the shoreline except for dangerous weather conditions or a couple of safe routes to make it into Baffin to avoid damaging your boat on the rocks. The next part of being successful in the January weather is slowing everything down. Not only your lure, but your feet too. Unless you luck into a mad feeding frenzy, the trout are going to be cold and slow. If you present a 5” Bass Assassin or a Corky in such a way that that mimics an easy meal, that they do not have to expend a lot of energy for, you will be able to get them to commit. “If you have the money, you can guarantee yourself a Boone & Crockett class buck…but trophy trout cannot be bought, they must be earned.” DR Set ‘em Loose, Capt. David Rowsey
Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
67
TRICIA’S
Mansfield Report
It’s early December and
Capt. Tricia’s Skinny Water Adventures operates out of Port Mansfield, specializing in wadefishing with artificial lures.
multiple trophy-class trout and schools of bruiser redfish testing
winter has finally arrived
even the best of tackle. While still classifiable as good, we
in deep South Texas. It’s
haven’t seen much of the exceptional yet. Persistent higher tides
raining; the temperature is
and a touch of red tide may explain some of it and conditions are
dropping and not expected
changing for the better as we speak.
to get above the 5Os for
The most consistent trout bite remains over deeper grass
several days. A gloomy short
beds. While topwaters have been exciting on specific occasions,
term report but exactly what
the little plastic tail has ruled. Whether we like it or not, it usually
serious fishermen have been
does, and most of your best anglers are adept at making the
waiting for. If everything
“worm” work it’s magic when all else fails. There have been
goes according to plan, we
fewer but bigger fish using the heavily grassed shallows, but
should see some of our best
if you wanted to catch them, it has taken a dedicated effort of
and most predictable fishing
fighting through floating grass and often across softer bottoms.
of the year between mid-December and the arrival of the equinox
While everybody wants a trophy, that badge has definitely been
tides in March and I am excited.
coming at a premium.
As far as recent activity, while we have indeed had some great
Redfish during late fall were mostly scattered and not
days, everything seems a little late this year. By this time a year
schooled as I predicted but, as always, persistence on the flats
ago we had already experienced several exceptional days of
paid off. Again, the tail was the most consistent tool in your box. It was all about the potholes and working a tail slowly through each one, sometimes repeatedly, to finally feel the distinctive thump that signaled another set of broad shoulders. Braided line helped to not only to feel those subtle pick-ups, but also to control the lure precisely. With reduced boat traffic we should expect more fish to use the shallows longer during the day. January is an exciting month as whenever the weather allows us to launch safely the potential for an outstanding day is always there. Even if we find only half of what we did last year things should still border upon epic. Of course, January fishing always revolves around the northers. Being this far south we recover in as few as 12 or perhaps 18 hours and post-front fishing is usually pretty good. Once the fish acclimate to colder water it will be business as usual, and the better ones will be extremely shallow both before and after each passage. Wintertime fish are often more concentrated which means that when it’s time to feed they will feed voraciously. It’s still all about finding them and figuring out the bite, though. Unfortunately, many anglers believe too much in the “deep and slow” and cheat
There is little question that wading the shallows is usually more productive than drifting.
themselves. Some of our best wintertime action comes in waist-deep and less. Watch what the bait is doing and follow their lead. When the bait is active in the shallows, let the masses dredge the depths.
68
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
P OR T M A N S F I E L D There is little question that wading the shallows can be more productive than drifting for the simple reason that when you ithout get on them you can stay on them without having to fire the big motor to go back around. I can’t tell you how many situations have been ruined by boaters who just don’t “get it.” I see them with their long-shaft “walleye water” motors sputtering and digging trenches in sensitive areas, especially where other fishermen are hard at work. You know who you are, and you need to know some of the damage an unaware skipper can cause. We are all in this game together. Considerate behavior makes the world a better place and certainly improves the fishing. As far as what to use during these colder months; bigger baits will become more reliable as mullet become the main forage. For plastics, I’ll rely on the 4” Kelly Wiggler paddle tail and the Brown Lure Devil Eye. Plug choices will be Rapala’s new sizes of X-Rap topwaters, namely the X-Rap 11. It’s a little bigger than a Skitter Walk, extremely well made, and has called up some exceptional With reduced boat traffic we can expect more fish to use the shallows longer during the day.
fish this past month. Whatever lures you prefer, it’s time to tie them on if you are serious about catching your lifetime trophy. Did I mention that I am excited?
NO THROW BACKS!
Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
69
SOUTH PADRE Unfortunately, 2009 did not
Fishing Scene
episode now appear void of all fish. I will say that this natural
end on the happiest note for
phenomenon has not occupied the entire bay but only isolated
the Lower Laguna. In my last
patches that seem to be concentrated by wind and tide. Even
article I said the red tide had
though the flats near the Arroyo Colorado have been void of any
not yet appeared in the bays,
great numbers of redfish or trout since this outbreak, we are very
but soon after I wrote that
grateful that most of our gamefish were smart enough to detect
piece the red tide moved in.
this toxin producing algae bloom and left before it caused any
Although we have not seen
damage to their population. As a matter of fact, as of this writing,
or heard reports of massive
I have yet to see any dead redfish or trout.
gamefish kills between Port
The good news is that despite the gloom and doom most of
Mansfield and Port Isabel,
our water is still in good shape. We are still catching solid trout,
the dead mullet and other
but it has taken a bit more creativity to catch them. Moving
small fish found floating in
around and finding clear to trout green water has certainly
certain areas near the Arroyo
helped our chances. Our marathon wades have now become
Colorado and south to the Brownsville Ship channel remind
short marches through soft bottoms. The choice of lures and
us of how fragile our bay system really is. The areas that have
how we worked them are tailored to the conditions of the day.
contained pockets of stained water and dead fish (mainly mullet)
Presently, we are targeting small areas where experience
have been desolate of live ones as well. A noticeable number
tells us fish congregate during colder periods of the year. If
of dead stingrays have been seen and the sad part has been
you know an area where a flat meets up with a gut, this is an
that areas that once held plenty of gamefish prior to the red tide
excellent choice this time of the year. Working your soft plastic
E E R F S H T N O G ET 3 M AG! M E E E R F S U PL
lar price of tion for the regu ip cr bs su th on e same rate! receive a 15-m d/or friends at th an rs be Order today and em m ily d sign up fam $25.00. Hurry an
SUBSCRIPTION
FORM
SUB0110
To order subscriptions simply fill this form out below and mail it to the address below, fax, email or go online.
361-785-3420 Monday – Friday 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. FREE E-MAG WITH HARDCOPY PURCHASE E-mail required
AM EX
15 months for 12 months! @ $25.00 ea Subscribing for more than yourself? Please write additional information on a separate sheet of paper. Offer valid until 2.28.10.
70
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
A R ROYO C OL OR A DO TO POR T I S A BE EL
concentrations of bait even when they have decided to stay low in the water column. Keep an eye on what the birds are doing and over which depths they seem to be feeding. Sometimes you will find birds feeding on the drop of the ICW or at times on the adjacent flats; this is where your eyes can lead you to the fish. The tides will drop dramatically during January
This trout was determined to escape.
so look for deeper holes to be good producers as well. Currently, our better catches are coming in late afternoon and into the evening hours. You might want to do a little homework and plan a trip on an afternoon where you have an incoming tide. This is part of applying creativity to improve your fishing. With the water temperatures dropping, you will need a good set of waders. My first and only choice is Simms along with their layering garments. When you’re out in the elements, protection, durability, and comfort are very important to the angler. Simms brings all of this
or a suspending lure near the bottom of these guts is a sure
and more and they stand behind their product. Get out when
bet, especially during the cold spells. As I mentioned in my
you can and fish outside the box this New Year.
previous article, the edges and drops of spoil islands will certainly hold good fish during these cooler months.
Pat had a field day with the winter redfish.
Even in the middle of winter our grass flats are excellent producers. All it takes is the sun to warm them up, and they warm up pretty fast. I have learned that the best time to hook up on some excellent winter flats fishing is two days after a cold front has passed. Two days of sun is enough time to warm the flats. As soon as they warm the baitfish venture out of the deep and into the shallows and not far behind are the gamefish and they will be hungry. Remember, in the winter they don’t have the opportunities they get in the warmer months, so when an opportunity arises, they will be quick to begin feeding. This is when small topwaters worked slowly over potholes will produce good results. I will admit winter fishing takes finesse and good observation skills. For example, as we wade through an area, we just don’t stampede through. Instead, our wades are slow and thorough, and our casts become tight and precise. Your eyes also play an important role when trying to find Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
71
Fishing Reports and Forecasts From Big Lake to Boca Chica BRO U G H T TO YOU BY. . .
Sometimes the best action kicks in just as the sun is going down and lasts into the early part of the night.”
Lake Calcasieu - Louisiana Jeff and Mary Poe - Big Lake Guide Service • 337-598-3268 Our fishing is HOT! Limits of trout and reds are coming pretty easy. No monsters yet, but some solid six and seven pound trout. January is a great time to fish, simply because no one is out there and the fish are. While everyone else is occupied with ducks and deer, we tend to lean more toward the big trout. Barring a rain event, the big trout will still be where they were in December. If we do suffer from a big rain, the fish will migrate a little farther south in the estuary. Anywhere that you can find clear water and bait is worth fishing. Catching these fish during the dead of winter is challenging. Vary your retrieve from slow to slower. Use the same suspending twitch baits like Corky Fatboys and Catch 2000’s. Ideal baits can be worked very slow and still be kept near the surface. The bird action should be winding down, so go back to fishing the reefs on the north end of the lake. If temperatures get really cold, try deep holes, such as LNG. Fish will get thick there because there is no tide movement. They can just sit and suspend. Fish slow!
Trinity Bay - East Bay - Galveston Bay James Plaag - silverkingadventures.com - 409 935 7242 James reports good to excellent fishing in Galveston area bays. “Trinity’s still good. There’s a lot of people over there, and a lot of fish too. As of now, the birds are still working. Don’t know how long that will last, though. The reefs on the west side have all got fish. That should stay good through the winter. East Bay has plenty of fish as well. When the tide is not too low, it’s possible to catch some good trout wading over there. If the wind blows the tide out and drives all the fish to the middle, West Bay will be better. Overall, West Bay doesn’t have as many fish right now, but you can peck away and catch some decent trout most days, limiting some of the time. The pattern, wherever you go, is to fish scattered shell and mud near the bigger reefs. I like to use a 51 or 52 MirrOlure, because I can just throw it out and reel it in real slow and catch ‘em. Of course, it will also be possible to catch fish on soft plastics too. Work them slow and stay in touch with the bottom, especially if you’re fishing right after a cold snap.”
Jimmy West - Bolivar Guide Service - 409 996 3054 Jim loves this time of year for the variety of outdoor options. “I’ve got plenty of doves at my lease. We’ll be on that hot and heavy right after Christmas. The duck hunting is good too. That should last well into the new year as well. Fishing has been on for quite some time now. We’ve had good fishing under birds and some excellent wading too. Caught some quality trout to go with limits and near limits almost every time out. Biggest trout lately was an eight pounder. The January fishing will depend on the severity of the cold weather and the wind’s effect on the tide level. When tides and temperatures are really low, the holes in the bayous fill up with fish, and fishing out of the boat is the way to go. On the other hand, when the weather warms up and the south winds blow in advance of a front and fill the bay with more water, the wading can be better. The wading is usually best right at dusk in the colder months. 72
January 2010
Texas Saltwater Fishing
West Galveston - Bastrop - Christmas Chocolate Bays Randall Groves - Groves Guide Service - 979 849 7019 - 979 864 9323 “Fishing has been really good,” Randall says. “We’ve been catching some solid trout and lots of fish. Biggest trout lately was right at seven pounds. We should see more like that one in the comings weeks and months. There are a couple of patterns working lately, mostly related to shell. We’re drifting mud and shell bottoms with Sand Eels and catching good numbers that way. There is also some decent wading at times, especially on shorelines with some grass beds. We also wade some reefs and shorelines with shell and mud. We throw the Sand Eels too when wading, but we mix in more Corkys and topwaters. There has been a lot of rain lately and when the water gets stained, two colors seem to work best, salty chicken (pink and green) and roach.” He reports some catches of big flounder on recent trips. “I actually sight cast one of them on top of a reef. It was a good five pounder. Caught her on a Corky Flash. Watched as she sucked it in and took off. It was a real hoot.”
Matagorda Charlie Paradoski - Bay Guide Service - 713 725 2401 Charlie enthusiastically asserts that some of the best fishing on the Texas coast can be had in East Matagorda Bay in January. “You have to play the weather, of course. The harsh blows will mess things up pretty good, but in between, the potential for catching giant trout is there. Some will be caught wading, but drifting scattered shell can pay off too. One of the most important keys is moving water. Watch the tide charts and try to focus on periods where there is some current moving. Doesn’t really matter whether the water’s going in or out, but it does need to be moving. When drifting, use light jigheads and Bass Assassins. Normally, I prefer sixteenth ounce heads when the water’s really cold, because it forces you to slow down and the fall rate is slower. Also, using light line helps in feeling the bites, which are often really light taps. I use nothing bigger than eight pound test, whether mono or braid. The school of big trout will normally set up in a portion of the bay and stay there all winter. If you locate numbers of twenty seven inch and larger trout, it’s possible to maintain contact with the school all the way from now until the end of February.”
Palacios Capt. Aaron Wollam palaciosguideservice.com - 979 240 8204 We are catching excellent numbers of trout and redfish as we move forward into our winter pattern. Many of the trout have been hanging along area shorelines in water depths of two to four feet over mud and shell bottoms and also out at the rigs in West Matagorda in depths of twelve to fourteen feet. The fish in the shallower water have been falling
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
prey to Corkys in pearl/chartreuse and dayglo, along with firetiger and pumpkinseed/chartreuse Bass Assassins. The trout out at the rigs have been eating four inch chartreuse Norton Bull Minnows and salt and pepper Berkley Power Mullet. The redfish on the flats have been steadily eating quarter ounce gold spoons and pearl/chartreuse Bull Minnows. The bayfront along the south and east seawall in Palacios has also been coughing up some solid trout, reds and flounder. The best bite there has been on falling tides and best lures have been salt and pepper Power Mullet rigged about eighteen inches under cigar corks.
Port O’Connor Lynn Smith - Back Bay Guide Service - 361 983 4434 Catching fish in January means focusing on areas where fish will look to warm up, and these areas will be close to deep water, Lynn says. “I’ll be targeting areas with shallow grass and mud which are close to a drop off to deep water. The fish will move on and off the flats this time of year in response to the cold fronts and warm spells between them. All of my fishing will be along the fringes of flats where this movement should occur. I throw Corkys a lot this time of year, but the soft plastics are the most productive lures on a day to day basis. The presence of bait, particularly mullet, is important during the coldest part of the year. Finding even small schools of bait can often signal the presence of plenty of trout and redfish. The bait is easiest to see after the sun has been out for a while, so I change my tactics from the typical dawn patrol of summer. This time of year, I like to start the day later, say around ten o’clock or so, to allow the flats to warm up. Then we’ll fish our way toward dark and expect the action to heat up.”
Rockport Blake Muirhead Gator Trout Guide Service - 361 790 5203 - 361 441 3894 Both the duck hunting and the fishing have been good to excellent of late, Blake says. “We have good numbers of ducks, even to the point of clouds of birds, and there’s variety too. This allows us to get limits on most hunts. It’ll be good through the end of the season, I’m sure. The fishing is not quite to the same level, but it’s good too. I’ll be casting and blasting throughout January. The drill is to shoot early and fish the middle of the day. We’ll be fishing inside the back lakes some. When it’s cold, the deeper areas fill up with the redfish. I like to focus on knee to thigh deep areas with soft muddy bottoms. If the tide is low, it will concentrate the redfish either in the deepest parts of the back lakes, or cause them to flee the marsh entirely. If they leave the marshes, they’re pretty easy to locate and catch along shorelines adjacent to the drains. Trout fishing is picking up lately as well. Normally, in the winter, we catch some of the biggest trout of the year. The cold weather will force them into some of the same areas as the redfish.
Padre Island National Seashore Billy Sandifer - Padre Island Safaris - 361 937 8446 Pompano will continue to be the main target for light tackle anglers in the January surf although plenty of whiting, black drum and some redfish will also be available. As always; a fresh, peeled, dead shrimp and “Fishbites” combo will be the most productive. Pompano will hit a TT28 51M MirrOlure readily on some days. Find a cut through the outside bar of a wide, deep gut and you’ll be on the pompano. Sandbar, bull and blacktipped sharks are often available and the chance exists for mako and sand tiger sharks. January tides are usually rather low. Second day behind cold frontal passage tends to be the most productive and user-friendly. Speckled trout are possible on 51M MirrOlures and other artificials but their numbers have been way down for several years. Pick narrow stretches of gut (squeezes) separating areas of wide gut and cuts through the sandbar for trout and work lures slowly. I’ll also be fishing the Northern Laguna Madre and Baffin for trophy trout and offshore for mako sharks, wahoo and other species.
Upper Laguna Madre - Baffin Bay - Land Cut Robert Zapata - rz1528@grandecom.net - 563 1160 More than the usual numbers of cold fronts have been reaching our area Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
in South Texas this winter. The cold fronts are also bringing much rain, wind and colder than usual temperatures. The water temperature has gotten colder, so some of the fish are moving into deeper water with mud and/or gravel bottoms with shallow grassy areas close by. If you are looking for big trout, you will be better off if you wade in areas where the depth changes from three feet to four feet or more. One of my favorite lures to use with these conditions is the suspending bait, MirrOlure Catch 5, because of its noisy characteristics. I think that the most productive bait this time of the year is the five inch Bass Assassin Saltwater Shad in colors like bone diamond, plum/ chartreuse, pumpkinseed/chartreuse and limetreuse. The Assassin Blurp five inch shads, in the colors pearl and good penny rigged on eighth ounce Spring Lock jigheads worked slowly along the bottom are also very productive.
Joe Mendez – www.sightcast1.com - 361 937 5961 The recent wintry weather means fishing patterns related to deep water from now until the end of January, Joe predicts. “We’re getting some strong fronts that are dropping the water temperatures really fast right now. When that happens around here, the fish will drop off into the channels and many will stay there through the winter. Catching them consistently means working the edges of the main channels and also working the stretches where channels intersect the main channels and run into the flats and create a silty hole at the dead end. Keeping the lure in contact with the edge of the channel is key when fishing this pattern. This is often easiest when heavier than normal jigheads are used, especially if the current and/or wind is strong. I like to use quarter ounce and even heavier heads some of the time.” He also mentions that venturing out in extreme conditions necessitates extra preparation. “It’s wise to bring lots of extra clothes, food and water when going far from the dock in winter. It’s like combat; it pays to be prepared for the worst.”
Port Mansfield Terry Neal – terrynealcharters.com – (956) 944 2559 When you think that you are working your bait slow, slow down some more. That is cold water fishing. The strike will feel like you bumped a piece of grass. Everything in that cold water is moving very slowly, if it is moving at all. Normally, cold weather means deeper water and softer bottoms, this adds up to slightly warmer water conditions. Topwater baits really need to be worked slow too… click, click, stop, pause, repeat. When the strike comes, let the line get tight before you set the hook. Braided line is an excellent choice for winter fishing. It is much more sensitive than mono line. It lets you feel those little taps. The Corps of Engineers have been dredging up north for a month. I jumped out to wade one of our favorite spots and sank up to my knees in black silt. BE CAREFUL! When you do catch a couple of fish, don’t leave the area. Take your time, there are usually more. Just keep what you can eat, release the rest.
Lower Laguna Madre - South Padre - Port Isabel Janie and Fred Petty fishingwithpettys.com – (956) 943 2747 It seems the red tide episode, for this year anyway, is finally coming to an end. At the time of this writing, our marina in Laguna Vista is filled with dead fish, mostly mullet, whenever the wind is from the north, and although it looks and smells bad, there is still no evidence of active red tide in the LLM. The debris we’re seeing is washing in from the Gulf and the passes. Our trips are still producing good catches of redfish and trout; however, some days of very slow tide movement have made us stay out longer than normal to fill the box to an acceptable level. We’re still throwing the Cajun Thunder corks with a fifteen inch leader, but we’re alternating between the cigar and round shapes. Freddy says, “Every now and then, try using the Diet Jerk four and a half inch Reaction Strike plastic worm instead of a Gulp; currently the favorite color is Mexican Flag. We’ve had good luck with this bait for both trout and reds.” Winter is the season to add that trophy trout to your wall; just be sure to dress in layers; you can always take something off.
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
73
Catch of the Month! All upcoming Photo Galleries are now online! Check out when your photo will appear in the magazine.
Jacob Gandia Laguna Madre - 33” 13lb 5oz redfish
Spencer Scheps Matagorda Bay - redfish
Chris Gunn Sabine River - Striper
Will Ledbetter Aransas Pass - 34”first redfish!
Allen Tiong Holly Beach 33 1/2” redfish Eric Cortez Matagorda - 48” butterfly drum
Aaron Pilcher 29” 9lb 3oz speckled trout 74
January 2010
Victoria Ortiz Laguna Madre - 31” redfish
Texas Saltwater Fishing
Blanca Rodriguez Aransas Pass - 28 1/2” redfish
Royce Spencer SE Mud Island - 40” redfish
Israel Castillo 32” redfish Mackenzie Skoruppa Rhoades Point - 15” trout
Allen Hill Matagorda - 29” 8lb trout
Andy & Anthony Luis Back Bay
Gator Garcia Corpus Christi - 30” 10lb speckled trout
Steve Fleet Corpus Christi - redfish www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
BROUG H T TO YOU B Y. . .
Paige Cantu & Alexis Cerda Aransas Bay - 33” & 29” redfish
Rachel Stasny Lavaca River - 29.5” redfish
Andrew Stadler Mesquite Bay - 23” redfish
Alex Verrett Offshore - first kingfish!
Gage Spence Loyola Beach - 23.5” & 21” trout & redfish
Don Billings Galveston Bay - 27” trout
Beth Elder West Matty Bay - first redfish!
John Boals Galveston Ship Channel - 26 1/4” trout
Manuel Cavazos South Padre- 28” trout
Diego Aguilar The Port of Brownsville - 13” jackfish
Emily Cavazos Arroyo City - first trout!
Cameron Castillo Laguna Madre - first redfish!
Please do not write on the back of photos.
Email photos with a description of your Catch of the Month to: Photos@tsfmag.com
Julian Betancourt Port Mansfield - trout Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
David Banki San Luis Pass - 72” shark Texas Saltwater Fishing
Mail photos to: TSFMag P.O. Box 429, Seadrift, TX 77983
January 2010
75
GULF COAST
Kitchen
Breaking out of the seafood cooking shell! 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
Do you ever get the feeling that your seafood
you batter can create flavors that will have your
cooking has become too much of the same old
dinner guests coming back for seconds. And
theme? Batter and fry is probably the most
if you’re watching your waistline as many of us
common presentation and, while tasty, it does
are these days, these coatings work equally
get old after a while. When we are frying fish
well when sautéing, broiling, baking and grilling.
or shrimp we like to add a different twist to the
I have found that applying the dip and coating,
coating. Rather than the traditional egg, milk
then refrigerating for about thirty minutes
or water wash before
before cooking, lets the flavors marinade with
dipping in flour, cracker
the seafood to bring out the best flavor and the
crumbs, Panko or
coatings adhere very well. Here are a few of
cornmeal; try adding
the ideas we have tried, hope you find them as
some zest.
delicious as we do.
Simply applying your favorite seafood
Italia
rb He
& Olive Oi
C an
l
dy Krisp
J
p e n os
n
n c he r o
a la
ho
g
A nc
n io lia O n Dres
a de
Texas Saltwater Fishing
id a
arin
January 2010
e
M
76
Ra
t Heat Sauc
sin
ee Sw
V
dipping sauce before
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
PRESENTS
Featuring
$55 TICKET PRICE INCLUDES:
4HOUSANDS OF DOLLARS WORTH OF DOOR PRIZES WILL BE AWARDED ALONG WITH A "AHAMAS "ONEl SH EXCURSION TO THE "IMINI 3ANDS 2ESORT -ARINA
overomo GeoorrldgofeSalP twater Fishing
s ! FULL DAY AT THE NATION S PREMIER SEMINAR ON SALTWATER l SHING s ,ATEST TACTICS AND TRICKS TO CATCH MORE AND BIGGER GAME l SH s %XTENSIVE VISUAL TEACHING AIDS s -EET NATIONAL EXPERTS s 4ALK TO THE BEST LOCAL ANGLERS
Host of W
on ESPN2
WIN A NEW MAKO BOAT!
… AND MUCH MORE! OTHER SEMINAR LOCATIONS AND DATES Long Island, New York .......................... February 20 Jersey Shore – Tinton Falls, New Jersey ... February 27 New England – Mohegan Sun Casino, CT ...... March 13
www.georgepoveromo.com FACEBOOK: George Poveromo
%VERY 3EMINAR 3ERIES TICKET IS ENTERED FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A NEW -AKO ,43 SKIFF
Pasadena, Texas - February 6, 2010 Texas Chiropractic College (/523 /& &)3().' ).3425#4)/. &2/-
Salt Water Sportsman’s !3 &%!452%$ 30%!+%23 The Pasadena, Texas Seminar will feature...
Captain Eugene Hensley Prominent Texas coastal, bottom and offshore fishing specialist!
George Poveromo Doug Pike Captain Carl Christoph Captain Jim West Captain Eugene Hensley Captain Mickey Eastman Captain Johnny Walker ...And More!!
Mickey Eastman A full-time fishing guide in the Galveston area and founder of the Gulf Coast Troutmasters tournament!
For more information on dates, locations, faculty or to sign up for the series go to
www.nationalseminarseries.com or call 1-800-448-7360
T E X A S S A LT WAT E R F I S H I NG HOL E S G A LV E S TON
B A F F I N/ L AG U N A M A DR E
B A F F I N/ L AG U N A M A DR E
M ATAG OR DA M ATA G O R D A B AY Speckled Trout / Redfish
USCG Licensed Captain Stan Sloan
832.693.4292 fintasticcoastalcharters.com
P O C/S E A DR I F T
RO C K P OR T TO P OR T M A N S F I E L D Rockport RedRunner Captain Chad Verburgt
YOUR AD COULD BE HERE for rates call 361.785.3420 or email ads@tsfmag.com 78
January 2010
Hammertime Guide Service Captain SLEDGE PARKER Port O’Connor, TX 713.371.7479 Specks, Reds, Flounder & Drum Don’t be Skeered, Come Catch you some! Boat Towing Avilable / Coast Guard Licensed
Texas Saltwater Fishing
Specializing in shallow water flats fishing for redfish, trout & flounder.
* Full day/Half Day * Baffin Trips * Cedar Bayou Trips * Kayaks Shuttle Drop off / pick up * Kayak Rentals
Call (361) 463-6545
www.rockportredrunner@yahoo.com www.rockportredrunner.com www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
T E X A S S A LT WAT E R F I S H I NG HOL E S CL A SSIFI EDS
YOUR AD COULD BE HERE for rates call 361.785.3420 or email ads@tsfmag.com
Boat Workz Boat Repairs Boat Parts
Metal Artist (Specializing in Marine Life
Roy and Sean Perry 7709 Lester (C.R. 110) Pearland, TX 77584
roykolors@aol.com 832-618-9267
F L OR I DA BENTLEY’S INTERCOASTALS HOUSE RENTALS
Capt.Mike Wilbur’s
CHASER KEY WEST FISHING Tarpon + Bonefish +Permit Fly-fishing and light tackle www.chaserkeywest.com / 305-296-7201
Port O’Connor, Texas: 3 Bedrooms, Sleeps 6, Fully Furnished. Great Location between the little Jetties & Clark’s Restaurant. Boat Slip upon availability. Guide Service available. Call Steve or Lydia at 361-983-4660 or 361-482-9095. Special winter rates available.
YOUR AD COULD BE HERE for rates call 361.785.3420 or email ads@tsfmag.com
Sales Associate/Store Manager
F I S H I NG R ET R E ATS
Job Description: Oversee daily operation of small but growing retail business. Duties to include working on retail floor for selling, merchandising and managing inventory of fishing gear, rod components, reel parts and accessories, hunting products and other outdoor gear, with the most energy in customer care, professionalism and productivity in the sporting goods business. Areas of specialty include inshore,offshore, and freshwater fishing, hunting, boating, apparel, and others. Retail experience strongly preferred. Familiarity with computers required. (Quickbooks POS, Microsoft Word, and Excel). Applicant must be able to prepare and track invoices, be extremely organized, have the ability to work independently, and also achieve financial objectives by preparing an annual budget. Competitive hourly compensation based on experience. This is a full-time position and overtime is available. Weekend shifts expected. Benefits include paid vacation. Please email resume to outfishing63@yahoo.com. All applicants will be kept strictly confidential. Position available January 2010 in the Gulf Coast Region.
FOR SALE Fisherman’s Condo. Located At Key Allegro, Rockport. Fully furnished, 2 BR, 2.5 Bath. Excellent condition. Near Marina, pool. Boat slip, wireless internet. Rental income optional. For photos go to www. pbase/billrich/condo. Price $279.5k; 210-7876918.
YOUR AD COULD BE HERE for rates call 361.785.3420 or email ads@tsfmag.com Just Keep Five
www.TSFMAG.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
January 2010
79
I N DE X OF A DV E R T I S E R S For more information about these advertisers visit: http://www.texassaltwaterfishingmagazine.com/contact_advertisers_product.html
BOAT ACCESSORIES Blackhawk Specialty Fabrication 66 512-392-1767 www.blackhawkspecialtyworks.com Boat Lift Distributors 54 800-657-9998 www.liftboat.com Fibertex & Supply 60 361-991-5956 www.stiffypushpoles.com Gulf Coast Trolling Motor 76 281-481-6838 www.FishingTackleUnlimited.com House of Fiberglass 57 361-853-2541 www.houseoffiberglass.com LB Outfitters- Stake Out Stick 57 409-718-7694 www.stakeoutstick.com McClain Trailers 31 713-675-0440 www.mcclaintrailers.com South Texas Trolling Motors 66 361-939-8970 www.southtexastrollingmotors.com Specialty Aluminum Works 24 361-575-1477 www.specialtyalworks.com Stick It Anchor Pins 58 941-815-6875 www.stickitanchorpins.com Tops-N-Towers 2 281-474-4000 www.topsntowers.com
BOATS, KAYAKS, OUTBOARDS Anchor Marine of Texas Cover, 1 210-599-1415 www.anchormarineoftexas.com Bernie’s Boats 17 361-573-7809 www.berniesboats.com Busha Boat Works 13 979-245-3369 www.bushaboatworks.com Coastal Backwater Marine 61 409-927-1462 www.coastalbackwatermarine.com Coastline Marine 2 713-614-2057 wwwcoastlinemarine.net Dargel Boat Works 9 800-749-2628 www.dargel.com Flatstalker Boat 58 www.flatstalker.com Flatstalker Guide Service 64 512-217-0438 www.flatstalker.com/guide-service Gulf Coast Boats 8 713-477-7119 www.gulfcoastboats.net Gulf Coast Marine Cover, 1, 6 361-937-7800 www.gcmboats.com Huff Marine 35 361-991-0369 www.huffmarine1955.com Kroll’s Marine 61 281-342-4461 www.krollmarine.com LMC Marine Center 2 281-209-boat www.lmcboats.com Majek Boats 4 361-991-3102 www.majekboats.com Mt. Houston Marine 37 281-447-7689 www.mthoustonmarine.com Ron Hoover RV & Marine Centers Solunar 409-935-7101 www.RONHOOVER.com Sail & Ski Center 21 512-219-2705 www.sailandski.com Shallow Sport Boats 2 956-233-9489 www.shallowsportboats.com Shoalwater Boats 12 361-983-4134 www.shoalwaterboats.com Texas Marine-E Sullivan 60 409-832-2027 www.texasmarine.com
80
January 2010
The Sportsman
Yeti Coolers:Yeti Coolers - Half Page 512-394-9384 www.yeticoolers.com
13
BUILDER AND BUILDER PRODUCTS
Yo-Zuri America, Inc 772-336-2280 www.yo-zuri.com
33
Building Products Plus 43 832-628-0987 www.buildingproductsplus.com
Capt. Kevin Cochran 361-688-3714 www.fishbaffinbay.com
51
Cover, 1 956-399-5123 www.sportsmanboats.com
D & P Coastal Marine Contruction 979-332-0090 www.piersdecks.com
65 FISHING RETAIL LOCATIONS
Tidelands Piers & Bulkheads 29 361-935-8008 www.piersbulkheads@gmail.com
Academy Sports + Outdoors Inside Back Cover 281-646-5000 www.academy.com
FISHING PRODUCTS (RODS, REELS, TACKLE, ETC.)
Fishing Tackle Unlimited Back Cover, 16 , 45 281-481-6838 Camille@fishingtackleunlimited.com
American Rodsmiths 1 713-466-7849 www.americanrodsmiths.com
25
Fish-N-Hunt
Brown Lures-JB Outdoors 281-961-4399 www.brownlures.com
23
Roy’s Bait & Tackle 361-992-2960 www.roysbait-tackle.com
D.O.A.
58
Speedy Stop Solunar 361-582-5100 www.speedystop.com
54
Tackle Box:Tackle Box 361-575-8700 No Website
877-362-5873 www.doalures.com EZ Drainer
7
713-856-8003 www.fishandhunt.com
281-224-9766 www.EZdrainer.com
8 Solunar 65
Fishing Tackle Unlimited Rods 4 281-481-6838 www.FishingTackleUnlimited.com
MISCELLANEOUS
Fisherman Eyewear www.Academy.com
17
Aventura - Jewelry 713-932-0002 www.coastaljeweler.com
41
ForEverlast Hunting & Fishing Products 361-798-1530 www.ForEverlast.com
28
Eichhorn, Gonzales & Miller 361-573-0647 www.egmjewelers.com
69
Trident Funding Corporation 800-514-6946 www.tridentfunding.com
41
TSFMag Store Page 361-785-3420 www.tsfmag.com
70
Livingston Lures
27, 72
210-316-1792 www.livingstonlures.com Luresafety Wrap
64
713-203-2829 www.luresafetywrap.com Marine Taxidermy
54
281-736-4982 www.marinetaxidermy.net
PLACES TO STAY
Mud Hole Tackle Supply Company 407-447-7637 www.mudhole.com
64
Baffin on the Rocks 361-592-3474 www.baffinontherocks.com
Pier 30
47
Classified:Bentley’s Intercoastal House Rental 79 361-983-4660 (none)
979.233.3130 www.pier30fish.com Pradco- Bomber
30 479-782-8971 www.bombersaltwatergrade.com Reaction Strike 57 317-938-5414 www.reactionstrike.com REC Components 47 860-749-3476 www.REC.com Rods by Pepper 66 409-737-1136 (None) Russelures Solunar 281-723-0721 russelure@yahoo.com Salt Water Soul 51 832-588-8871 www.saltwatersoul.net Simms Fishing Products 3 406-922-1233 www.simmsfishing.com Strike Pro America 21 409-938-7400 www.strikeproamerica.com Texas Tackle Factory 20 361-575-4751 www.texastacklefactory.com Third Stone Software 49 888-361-2221 www.thirdstonesoft.com Wade Aid Enterprises 65 888-923-3243 www.wadeaid.com Waterloo Rods 12 361-573-0300 www.WaterlooRods.com Espandre 39 281-543-1230 www.espandre.com Woodee Rods 39 281-723-4154 www.woodeerods.com
Texas Saltwater Fishing
79
Floating Cabin Rentals 361-937-0868 www.captaincarl.com
78
Serena Residences 1-866-241-4022www.serenaresidences.com
29
The Inn At Clarks
79
361-983-2300 www.theinnatclarks.com REAL ESTATE / RENTAL Bill Richter
79
210-787-6918 The Oaks at Bentwater 361-790-0001 www.oaksatbentwater.com
20
TOURNAMENT / EVENTS Bash Tournament
32
361-582-5100 www.speedystop.com Bluff’s Landing Marina Bait and Tackle 361.937.7100 www.bluffslanding.com
33
Coastal Bend Marine Dealers Boat Show 361-991-0369 www.ccboatshow.com
51
Houston Fishing Show 32 713-853-8000 www.houstonfishingshow.com Texas International Boat Show 75 561-842-8808 www.texasinternationalboatshow.com Saltwater Sportsman 77 800-448-7360 www.nationalseminarseries.com
www.TSFMAG.com
Just Keep Five
, +
( * +99 $ ( 7 3(
.( / ($ 0 ,
$0( ( # , $ 1 ' ,$,& ( + , , $0 , $ ( # $ ($ 0 , + , 2 $ ,$ 0 ) $ 3 11
'$ 0 3( 34 7 34 :, ) , % 1 ; < = > 5 ?
2
5 " 7 ' $ + , , 0 5 '$ 0 8( 7 34
+99&
@$/$ ) 3 / 1 A
0 , $ B 3 /% 1 A $ 3 / 3 ) 3 $ $ / $3 % ,, , % 4 1
. 3 $ , $0 ( % 0 )($ / $ , 3 /) # $ % , $ ($ 0 34 5 $/$ , / 3
, $ ( , ) , 6
$ ($ 0 , / , ( ) 3 3( / $ (1 $ ($ 0 34 5 $/$ , " 7 ' $ + , "# $ % $ ')$ $ 0 , 8 $ 0 / , $ ( $, 3 $ 0 ( , 3 $ 1 ;
1 ; 1
C $ 2 ') , # ( D
2 7 + , + 8 /% , $ 8 / 7 C $ + & A
0 , ( ' , D 1 A
0 , $ , ( ) 3(
! "# $ % && '( ) $ ( $
l
l
GALVESTON TIDES & SOLUNAR TABLE Texas Saltwater Fishing Magazine JANUARY 2010
$
To find a location near you, please visit us at www.speedystop.com
The BEST Choice… Any Place, Anytime!
Hurricane Sundeck Sport 188 Package includes a Suzuki 115 4-stroke motor, prop, and aluminum trailer.
23,995 +TTL With locations in: Houston/lamarque 409-935-7101 Rockport 361-729-9695 Rio Grande Valley 956-464-4403
www.ronhoover.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