Gulf Coast Mariner Magazine July/August 2019

July/August 2019 | GulfCoastMariner.com

A HOT SUMMER OF FISHING OFFSHORE WEEDLINES LUXURY YACHTING DESTINATION FISHING FLORIDA & COLORADO MARINE INDUSTRY VICTORY! Texas Caps Boat Sales Tax

DOXEY LURES

Ruby Delgado with a tournament angler’s dream redfish caught on a D.O.A. 4” Shrimp in 305 Nite Glow. Photo: Cindy Nguyen

| July/August 2019 10|The Fine Art of Fly Tying

34|Silver Kings & More

Fifteen-year-old Shane Krajnik continues a family tradition of tying flies.

South Padre Island fishing is the best.

By Capt. Lee Alvarez

14|Gear

35|The Good, Bad and Ugly

Fishing gear and apparel from Shimano, Waterloo Rod Company, Engel, Salty Crew and more.

By Kelly Groce

16|Prestige 460 Flybridge

An eventful year for Galveston Bay.

By Capt. David Dillman

36|Retro Lessons in Summer Fishing

A yacht where luxury meets relaxation.

Many proven lessons for success are often passed by.

By Capt. Joey Farah

20|Texas Boat Tax Cut Passed

38|The Other Trout

The Texas Marine Industry Jobs Bill, which caps sales tax, has been fully passed and filed by the Governor.

22|Defending Galveston Bay The Galveston Bay Foundation continues to monitor water quality in the aftermath of the ITC fire and Bayport Channel Collision.

By Claire Everett, Galveston Bay Foundation

24|Fishing the Everglades Catching snook, tarpon and more on miles of pristine flats.

By Kelly Groce

28|Offshore Weedlines Catch Dorado and much more on this floating structure.

By Capt. Joe Kent

30|Whose Water is this?

Consideration and knowledge for better etiquette.

By Capt. Steve Soule

32|Galveston Bay Fishing Report Trout and big reds with Capt. David Dillman.

By Brandon Rowan

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Gulf Coast Mariner Magazine

July/August 2019

Chasing brilliant brown trout in the Colorado mountains.

By Brandon Rowan

40|Galveston Island Brewing Keeping those island vibes alive one brew at a time.

By Kelly Groce

42|The Galley Lemon, wine and butter seared scallop recipe.

By Betha Merit King

ON THE COVER Taylor Garcia caught these beautiful flounder while working sand pockets and grass lines with Capt. Sutton Schoonover of Baffin Bay Rod & Gun. All flounder were caught on DOA 3” Shadtail in 417 Key-lime.

Contents Letter from GCM _____________________p.

9 Doxey Lures _____________________p.

10 2019 Texas Billfish Classic _____________________p.

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_____________________p.

11 Nautical Numbers _____________________p.

11 Name that Fish Snapshots: Your Fishing & Water Recreation Photos _____________________p.

12 6 Tips for Kayak Safety _____________________p.

35 Tie One On _____________________p.

37 Galveston Bay Tides _____________________p.

44 Boats for Sale _____________________p.

45 Fishing with Max Conner _____________________p.

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[Letter from Gulf Coast Mariner]

Admiral (President) Rick Clapp Rear Admiral (Editor) Mary Alys Cherry Captain (Creative Director/Partner) Brandon Rowan Commodore (Graphic Designer/Partner) Kelly Groce Sales Crew (Advertising Executives) Judy Gaines Karen Laroux Amber Sample Alisa Star Robyn Weigelt Editorial Capt. Lee Alvarez Capt. David Dillman Claire Everett Capt. Joey Farah Kelly Groce Capt. Joe Kent Brandon Rowan Capt. Steve Soule Photography Kelly Groce Betha Merit King Cindy Nguyen Brandon Rowan Capt. Steve Soule Adam Valadez Gulf Coast Mariner Magazine P.O. Box 1032 Seabrook, TX 77586

For information on advertising: Phone: 281.474.5875 art@baygroupmedia.com

T

IS THE SEASON for fishing, boating, sailing and hanging by the beach or pool. That brutal Texas heat is here and summertime on the coast is in full swing!

Summertime means traveling. Our Creative Director, Brandon Rowan, brings you a story with great photography about his time in Colorado chasing brown trout.

I compiled a story and photos for you about my recent trip to the Florida Everglades with some of my best buds. I got to catch my first tarpon and had a blast while doing so. As pictured above, we had to stop at Bud N Mary’s and Robbie’s in Islamorada to feed the tarpon while we were there.

If you like a good road trip, Corpus Christi and South Padre Island have amazing fisheries that are only a short drive away. We are excited to have guides from these areas bring you fishing reports, as well as our local Galveston Bay guides, to make sure you increase your odds of catching fish.

I hope this issue inspires you to get out there and experience something new. So, drop anchor and enjoy a cold beverage while reading this issue of Gulf Coast Mariner Magazine. And as always, I’ll see you on the water!

www.GulfCoastMariner.com

F O L LO W U S Kelly Groce Partner/Graphic Designer GulfCoastMariner.com

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“Bottom line, fly making is a fine art and fishing with one is a unique experience worth trying.”

THE FINE ART OF FLY TYING

By Alisa Star

C

IVILIZATIONS HAVE BEEN constructing and utilizing artificial flies for centuries. Fly fishing in Macedonia dates back to 200 A.D. Next, came iron hooks that were made during the 13th century, but didn’t become extremely popular until the 17th century when blacksmithing techniques improved and increased the durability of the metal.

As the years went on, new inventions benefited the fabrication of flies, thus causing new styles of flies to emerge and a more active fly-tying community.

Shane Krajnik began tying flies at a very young age with his father as teacher and mentor. His father Mike Krajnik passed on techniques and tricks that he learned

from his grandfather.

“I am so proud to be a part of this unique art and family tradition” said Shane Krajnik. “My father taught me how to craft freshwater ones specifically for fly fishing. However, I developed ones more suited for saltwater due to my constant exposure to the saltwater life.

I tried different hooks, strings, feathers, styles, and weights. All of this led to me having the perfect recipe for the perfect saltwater fly,” said Krajnik.

“There’s a certain serenity that overwhelms you when you sit in a quiet place and start making these beautiful pieces of fine art. The relaxation and the absence of stress appears when you start wrapping the thin thread around the feathers and hairs of numerous species of animals.”

Young Krajnik enjoys not only tying flies for the relaxation, but also the results of how they catch fish. The quality flies created by this craftsman and fisherman having been used to catch reds, flounder, and speckled trout. Every feather and

DOXEY LURES XL MR. CLEAN

High end trolling lures by Capt. Ryan Doxey hand made in Texas. Mr. Clean comes in four sizes. The XL size is a great short rigger bait for marlin that can also be used as a bridge teaser. The smaller sizes run well in any position and are great on white marlin, sailfish, dorado and wahoo.

For information on custom lures, pricing and availability, call (281) 455-9444 or visit www.facebook.com/doxeylures

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Gulf Coast Mariner Magazine July/August 2019

string addition changes the frequency of the fish you catch as well as the type. One enormous benefit of fishing with flies is none of those pesky hardheads! These catfish rarely strike plastics and the same goes for the flies as well. That’s a great benefit of using artificial bait and flies.

Needless to say, there is a learning curve that goes along with using flies. From the tying 15-year-old Shane Krajnik station to casting it out, continues his you can modify and create family tradition characteristics of how of tying flies. the fly reacts in the water and during the retrieve. Another tip for fishing with saltwater flies is to use one with a little heft on the shank of the hook.

“Fishing with the slightly heavier flies that I create, I prefer to reel in slow to create a repeating V shape in the water with the fly. This motion seems to really catch the eye of surrounding fish, thus making them hit hard and run fast, “ Krajnik said.

Finally, one of the most important pieces of advice is to not go out and buy any new equipment except for a few different flies to fish with because you don’t really need anything new and complicated to test out the waters. These flies can even be used on traditional baitcasting or spinning gear by using a stationary weight about two and a half feet above the fly. Bottom line, fly making is a fine art and fishing with one is a unique experience worth trying.

If you are interested in purchasing custom made flies or a combination box of flies, please contact shanekrajnik@gmail.com

@DOXEYLURES

2019 TEXAS BILLFISH CLASSIC TO BE THE BEST TOURNEY YET

The TBC continues to live up to its name as the fastest growing billfish tournament in Texas

By Brandon Rowan

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N ITS FOURTH YEAR OF BRINGING

highly competitive billfishing back to Freeport, the Texas Billfish Classic continues to grow, with the 2019 tournament promising to be the largest one yet.

Usually an August tournament, the Texas Billfish Classic changed dates to July 16-20 by popular demand.

With the unfortunate cancellation and indefinite hiatus of Poco Bueno, many of the Gulf’s best fishing teams were still ready and hungry to fish those dates.

Those teams who have never fished the TBC are in for a treat. Tournament director Jasen Gast and staff produce one of the most popular and enjoyable

tournament formats on the Texas Gulf Coast. Many participants appreciate the start time, which allows boats to leave during the day and avoid dangerous runs at night. The camaraderie of the kick off party, a spirited weigh-in and awards dinner are well known and anticipated events of the tournament.

Fishing was smoking hot last year.

Draggin’ Up set a new tournament record by weighing a 514-pound blue marlin. The competition for tuna was tight with Smoker II’s first place fish weighing 93 pounds and $ea Dollar$’s 90-pound tuna nabbing second place.

“But one of the biggest success stories of the TBC is not the fishing, but what we are able to do on land,” Tournament Director Jasen Gast said.

The tournament works closely with three charities; the Billfish Foundation, the Freeport to Port O’Connor Toy Run and the Freedom Alliance, and has donated thousands to charity over the years. The 2018 Awards Banquet ended with Jasen and the Freedom Alliance’s Pepper Ailor presenting a donated all-terrain wheelchair to veteran Jacob De La Garza, who lost his leg in Afghanistan.

Don’t miss one of the year’s best tournaments and come on down to Freeport. The general public is invited and welcome to join the weigh-in.

For information on the Texas Billfish Classic and its schedule of events, visit www.TexasBillfishClassic.com or contact TexasBillfishClassic@yahoo.com

NAME THAT FISH D. Black Pomfret

ANSWER: A. The Lookdown (Selene vomer) is a game fish of the family Carangidae.

It is common in the Gulf of Mexico and featured in many Texas state Aquariums. They are reported to be excellent table fare.

C. Almaco Jack

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Tripletail fish were given this name because of the fish’s three rounded fins: dorsal, caudal, and anal. These fish are known for floating just beneath the surface with one side exposed resembling a leaf or other floating debris.

1,000

In 1937, two fisherman caught a bull shark approximately 5 feet long that had traveled more than 1,000 miles up the Mississippi River. Bull sharks are one of the few sharks that can regulate how much salt is removed from their kidneys, which is why they can survive in both fresh and saltwater.

3.75

A. Lookdown B. African Pompano

NAUTICAL NUMBERS

The Texas state record for a bonefish is 3.75 pounds, caught in the Gulf of Mexico by C.W. Morris in 1977. Mostly found in grassy shallows, these fish are named the silver bullet for their color and speed.

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Gulf Coast Mariner Magazine July/August 2019

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Molly Ware at Surfside. Photo: Adam Valadez

Joey Schiller of Team Pay Czech with a FAT grouper.

Rob Sawyer and Sean Tannehill doubled up on reds while fishing with Robert Gardner of Galveston On The Fly.

Shane Krajnik caught this nice flounder on one of his own hand tied flies.

David Herbek and Kevin Daude with a stringer of surf trout up to 22 inches.

Alisa Star with a big San Leon redfish.

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Gulf Coast Mariner Magazine July/August 2019

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PRESTIGE

460 FLYBRIDGE Find exceptional features on board the 2019 Prestige 460 Flybridge for afternoons on the water and extended voyages

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Gulf Coast Mariner Magazine July/August 2019

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Welcome aboard the 2019 Prestige 460 Flybridge, where luxury meets relaxation.

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RODUCED IN NANTES, FRANCE

she boasts an abundance of space for her passengers and storage for all of their needs. Whether you are setting sail for an extended voyage or cruising around for the afternoon, this Prestige will surpass all of your desires and expectations.

This is a two stateroom, two head vessel with a comfortable salon and functional aft galley. The full beam master stateroom is complete with an en suite, window lounger, beautiful wood finishing and ample drawer and closet space. The forward stateroom offers a sliding berth option, allowing for single bed conversion.

The salon and galley offer a brilliant open-floor concept, which allows for seamless entertaining. Crisp white leather

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Gulf Coast Mariner Magazine July/August 2019

LEFT: Enjoy roomy entertaining in the open floor design of the galley and salon.

TOP LEFT: Chart your own destiny from the helm of the Prestige 460 Flybridge.

TOP RIGHT: Rest easy in a spacious statesroom with beautiful wood finishing.

“This vessel truly offers its passengers a wealth of options and enjoyment.” sofas adorn the salon, permitting plenty of comfortable seating. A fully efficient galley is another enticing feature of this Prestige 460. It’s unique aft placement opens up to the cockpit and transom creating an inclusive realm for family and friends onboard.

This boat also includes three docking stations for the utmost convenience, combo washer and dryer, Bose loudspeakers throughout, and a popup television in the salon, just to name a few more of her exceptional features.

On top of the well-designed and functional features of this cruiser, she also has many opulent qualities including a flybridge with a sun pad lounger, as well as bench seating surrounding a flybridge table to also carry entertaining up top. A hydraulic swim platform enhances the transom, as well as a grill and more seating. This vessel truly offers its passengers a wealth of options and enjoyment. Come by Galati Yacht Sales in Galveston to climb aboard this astonishing Prestige 460 Flybridge.

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TEXAS MARINE INDUSTRY BILL IS APPROVED AS HB 4032 HAS BEEN FULLY PASSED AND FILED BY THE GOVERNOR TMIC Legislative effort backed by grassroots support proves successful

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N A MAJOR VICTORY FOR TEXAS’

struggling marine industry, a long sought measure limiting the sales-use tax on boat purchases and providing for out of state vessels to utilize Texas waters, marinas and service companies is now poised to become law. After final passage in Texas House and Senate, and final filing by the Governor on June 14, 2019, HB 4032 will take effect on Sept.

1, effectively bringing Texas marine industry competitive balance with other coastal states that have had far lower boat tax policies.

The Texas Marine Industry Coalition (TMIC) was established barely one year ago to bring the Texas marine industry together and provide a strong platform and voice to promote and protect the interest of the industry and Texas’ boating communities. TMIC built a strong and effective coalition of members from the entire Texas coast and many inland boating communities. The group

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Gulf Coast Mariner Magazine July/August 2019

set the Texas Marine Jobs bill as its No. 1 legislative priority and spearheaded the efforts to pass this vitally important legislation.

“Thanks to a strong lobbying effort in Austin and incredible support from members of the marine industry and our communities, the Texas Marine Industry Jobs Bill is about to become law. The goal of TMIC and the result of this bill is to stem the flow of larger vessels, tax revenue, jobs and economic activity now going to Florida and other states due to those states proactive tax policies. The state of Texas can now return to its place among the nation’s leaders in boat sales and employment related to the marine industry,” said John Preston, President of TMIC and owner of The Boater’s Directory.

The Texas Marine Industry Jobs Bill sets a limit on the 6.25% sales and use tax for all taxable recreational vessels at $18,750, effectively matching the $18,000 tax cap that Florida enacted in 2010. It contains an additional provision to allow boats purchased for use outside of Texas to temporarily remain in the state to utilize Texas marine service companies

for refit and repairs. Also included in the bill is a provision to establish a fee permit system for out-of-state registered vessels to return to or visit Texas waters for temporary periods of time and spend money in our communities to support the marine service industry. The intent and effect of each measure of the bill is to eliminate the incentives other states have been providing large boat buyers to purchase and/or take their boats and their business out of Texas. The boat sales tax cap and the additional provisions of HB 4032 will provide more boats, more boating and more business for Texas.

“We want to especially thank Senator Larry Taylor and Representative Ryan Guillen for their strong leadership as the primary bill authors. Thanks also to Representatives Greg Bonnen, Genie Morrison, Dennis Paul and Ed Thompson all of whom signed on as co-authors in the House. Representative Todd Hunter and Senator Lois Kolkhorst recognized the benefits of this legislation to their districts that are still recovering from Hurricane Harvey and provided tremendous advocacy for the Texas Marine Industry support to help achieve

final passage of the bill,” said Randy Bright, TMIC Vice-President and broker with Galati Yacht Sales. He added “A special thanks to Joey Park and Billy Phenix for their hard work and effective professional representation in Austin.

Getting this bill passed was no easy task and we are grateful that our legislators and the Governor were able to recognize the positive economic impact and the importance of it to the hard working men and women in the marine industry.

“The service sector of the Texas marine industry really needs this legislation”, said John Bowen, TMIC Vice President and owner of Elite Diesel Service. He added “The boats affected by this bill spend a great deal of money everywhere they go. We see the effects of this in our business as the Texas fleet has been shrinking thru attrition with replacement boats calling other states home. I’m excited that we can begin to return this business to Texas” “We want to thank all our members and supporters who responded to our calls for action. They wrote letters and called legislators, gave money and made

“Thanks to a strong lobbying effort in Austin and incredible support from members of the marine industry and our communities, the Texas Marine Industry Jobs Bill is about to become law.” trips to Austin. Their efforts paid off for sure and proved that an organized grass roots effort is effective and can achieve great results,” said Jay Dee Jackson, Treasurer of TMIC and Texas Sales Manager for Galati Yacht Sales. He added, “We got such great support from so many people and organizations and we needed every bit of it. Thanks to that great collective effort, the Texas Marine Industry faces a brighter future today.”

For additional information or comments please contact any of the following members of the TMIC Legislative Committee: * John Preston 832/788-2860 * Randy Bright 713/816-

2165 * John Bowen 832/226-2881 * Jay Dee Jackson 941/720-5081 *Email – tmicoalition@gmail.com or visit the TMIC website; www.tmicoalition.org ABOUT TMIC The Texas Marine Industry Association (TMIC) was formed by a group marine industry professionals to bring together Texas marine businesses, their employees, vendors and customers to create a strong platform and voice to promote and protect the interests of the Texas Marine Industry. TMIC’s Mission: To build a strong, organized and effective association of Texas marine industry businesses, employees, vendors and their customers for the purpose of providing strong advocacy to protect, promote and support the recreational marine industry in Texas. To be a strong voice of representation at the federal, state and local level on issues of importance to our members and our industry. To provide value to our members as a source of information and communication on issue and events important to their businesses and our industry.

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Galveston Bay Foundation water testing in the Houston Ship Channel in response to the ITC fire.

Responding to crises: Defending Galveston Bay with your support

By Claire Everett Galveston Bay Foundation ITC RESPONSE As the ITC chemical tank fire raged for days in March, two things became very clear: a large and immeasurable quantity of petrochemical and firefighting foam runoff was going straight into Tucker Bayou, and the Bay was going to be seriously impacted.

In the immediate aftermath, Galveston Bay Foundation

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called for transparency in all water testing surrounding the ITC incident, and we started our own independent sampling efforts. We sincerely thank our dedicated members and volunteers who helped during this difficult time.

“Our independent sampling not only provides public access to this important environmental data, but we are also supplementing data collected by incident response, ensuring adequate monitoring

Gulf Coast Mariner Magazine July/August 2019

and documentation of the incident,” said Sarah Gossett, Robinson Water Programs Manager at Galveston Bay Foundation.

We A boom gets deployed partnered at ITC while with Texas Galveston Bay A&M Foundation University’s staff is collecting Superfund water samples.

Research Center and Environmental Defense Fund to test the water for Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), specifically PFAs, a group of chemical compounds frequently found in industrial product and firefighting foam.

PFAs are water soluble and do not break down over time, meaning they can stay in our waterways and accumulate in wildlife and the water column. They’re found in many different

products, from industrial and manufacturing equipment to cookware and disposable coffee cups. While much is still unknown about PFAs and how they interact with the human body, many of these compounds are known to be harmful to humans when ingested, and have resulted in or contributed to cancer, hormone disruption, low infant birth weight and many other issues.

Unfortunately, concerning levels of PFAs were detected in our samples from the ITC incident. Overall, the results show a definite presence of many different PFAs in the Houston Ship Channel water.

The highest levels were found near ITC, but even samples that were taken from the shoreline farther downstream showed levels of concern.

Because there are no federal

Dead fish piled up on Galveston Bay Foundation’s Kemah property as a result of the Bayport Channel Collision gasoline leak.

advisories or state standards for contact recreation waters for PFAs, little monitoring has occurred within Galveston Bay. Since the ITC fire, Galveston Bay Foundation and other agencies have increased collection of PFAs levels within Galveston Bay. “Now that we and the public are more aware of this issue, I hope we are able to use this incident to continue monitoring our Bay for these compounds, and that standards and protocols are eventually established,” Sarah said. “We need to do a better job of monitoring these levels so we can better document baseline levels and work to detect and resolve any potential problems.”

Galveston Bay Foundation will continue to work in collaboration with Texas A&M University to conduct long-term PFA monitoring in Galveston Bay. Stay up to date on any new information from the results at galvbay. org/ITC. BAYPORT CHANNEL COLLISION Less than two months after the ITC chemical tank fire, a barge-ship collision in Houston Ship Channel leaked more than 9,000 barrels of gasoline product into Galveston Bay. In the wake of incidents like this, Galveston Bay Foundation works with partner organizations to evaluate the potential impacts

the spill could have on the Bay. In this case, we have been invited by the Unified Command response to serve on a Resources at Risk committee to evaluate the impact on natural resources.

Director of Conservation Phillip Smith will represent Galveston Bay Foundation on the committee.

While we have had concern over industry and government testing and sampling efforts, we are confident that Unified Command has mobilized, is actively responding to the incident, and is fulfilling environmental impact and assessment needs.

On Sunday, May 12, incident responders found a fish kill on our Kemah property, which Texas Parks and Wildlife Department confirmed as the result of the Bayport Channel Collision.

Galveston Bay Foundation worked with incident response on the cleanup.

Learn more at galvbay.org/ Bayport-Collision.

Industrial disasters are unfortunate to say the least, but our Bay is resilient. Galveston Bay Foundation plays an essential role in advocating for the health of the Bay in times of crisis and so do you. Thank you for all of your support in response to these incidents.

With your help, Galveston Bay Foundation will continue to serve as guardian of Galveston Bay. GulfCoastMariner.com

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[OFFSHORE]

OFFSHORE WEEDLINES SIGNAL GREAT FISHING

By Capt. Joe Kent

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OR THE LAST 20 YEARS or more offshore seaweed, which forms weedlines in the Gulf of Mexico, has been either over abundant or virtually nonexistent. When abundant, many species of fish follow the sargassum, or seaweed as it is more commonly called, as the patches, clumps and organized lines reflect the basics of the marine food chain.

During lean times, such as offshore Galveston anglers have experienced for several years now, there is a conspicuous absence in the number of pelagic fish in the nearshore waters of the Gulf. Most notably absent are the Dorado, Dolphin fish or mahi-mahi, as they are called interchangeably.

Dorado of all sizes hover around masses of seaweed and along with them are just about all other fish that roam the Gulf waters.

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Gulf Coast Mariner Magazine July/August 2019

A THING OF BEAUTY: A well formed weed line is a favorite sight for many offshore fisherman. They are known best for holding Dorado but ling, wahoo, sailfish and marlin can be caught here as well.

This year it appears that we may have more seaweed in our near shore waters and if so, look for a banner year of offshore fishing along the upper Texas Coast.

Seaweed attracts and is a refuge for small crustaceans and fin fish. Watching carefully from close range are larger fish waiting for an opportunity to feast.

Behind those are billfish, huge Dorado,

WINNER, WINNER: Chicken Dorado can make for fun and fast action around weedlines.

ling, wahoo, sharks and as mentioned earlier almost every species of pelagic fish in the Gulf.

Just about all marine life in the Gulf of Mexico waters can be found in the vicinity of this vegetation.

Now that we know what is offered in the way of fish around the seaweed, how do we take advantage of it and catch some of the fish?

Dorado, especially the smaller chicken Dorado, are one of the most common fish hanging around the shade and protection. Tripletail, small amberjack, king, ling, shark, wahoo and sailfish are others that are commonly found just outside of the masses of weed.

Anglers experienced at fishing the weed lines know that there are two ways to find the fish. One is to quietly move close to big concentrations of weeds and toss out small pieces of squid or cut bait.

Any chicken Dorado close by likely will come out of hiding to pursue a quick and easy meal.

When this occurs, anglers using light to medium tackle will toss free-lined squid or other bait toward the seaweed and bingo, most of the time a group of small Dorado will inhale it. While battling the small Dorado many others will follow close by and the key is to keep the fish hooked while others in your party toss similar baits into the water.

On one occasion years ago my group of four landed over 100 while employing this technique.

Once the Dorado have scattered, slowly maneuver your boat along the edges of the weed line and look for either more Dorado or tripletail.

Often at some point large Dorado and

ling will appear searching for the same chicken Dorado you are pursuing.

Both ling and Dorado are curious fish and tend to check out noise. One technique that works in getting their attention is to pound the side of the boat with your hands.

If no fish appear, move on to another clump or line or begin trolling. Trolling is another way to find the fish. Try trolling the outer edges of the weed concentrations keeping enough distance to prevent the trolling lure for getting tangled in the seaweed.

The most active seaweed lines are going to be found in blue or blue/green waters. Lines found in off color water are hardly worth the time to check out.

Most of the strikes are going to be near the surface and visible. Every ling I have caught while working seaweed has come to the surface to check out the bait.

Sometimes they just smell it and take off, other times they take it.

One mistake that newcomers make when larger fish like ling first take the bait is to try to set the hook too quickly.

Free spool enough line that the large fish can take the bait and start swimming away before setting the hook.

For the chicken Dorado and smaller fish, setting the hook immediately is imperative.

One pointer for boats, especially those propelled by outboard engines, is that when working seaweed areas often the props get tangled in the vegetation.

When this occurs put the engine in reverse and it should remove the clutter.

Hopefully we will see a good balance of weed lines in the Gulf this summer and we can enjoy the bounties of seafood they offer.

“Hopefully we will see a good balance of weed lines in the Gulf this summer.�

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WHOSE WATER IS THIS? Consideration and knowledge goes a long way for on-the-water etiquette

By Capt. Steve Soule

E

VERY SINGLE ONE of us who boats, kayaks, fishes, goes sight seeing, jet skiing, wading or any other use of public waters has come from a different place or perspective.

Some are very experienced, others have little to no experience. Each and every one of us has a different view of the resource that we share. None of us are wrong or right, though we may be highly opinionated or have well founded thoughts and beliefs. We all have a right to the use of the resource, and we all have the shared responsibility to respect and maintain what we have.

If you search the internet, or speak to people who utilize the bays and waters of the Texas Coast, or any other for that matter, you will find no shortage of opinions and arguments regarding how we come in contact with each other on the water. Over time, we start to develop the belief that we are right or someone else is wrong. This may or may

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not be true or correct, but we tend to believe that our way of utilizing the resource may be better than the next person’s plan.

Does a fishing boat have any more right to be in an area than a jet skier? Does a poling skiff have the right of way on a flat over a tower boat? Does a wade fisher have more right to be in a spot than a boat drifting? I believe that it is safe to answer all of those questions, and many other similar scenarios with a resounding no!

There isn’t any one of us who takes advantage of our right to access public water that has special privileges that others do not. Now, with that said, consideration of others must come into play, along with some knowledge and understanding of how your actions may impact others around

Gulf Coast Mariner Magazine July/August 2019

Captain Clay Sheward starting the morning hooked up in the marsh.

us, we can all enjoy the resource.

In nearly every case where someone is upset with another person on the water, ignorance, or lack of knowledge is the primary issue. I don’t use the term ignorance in a derogatory manner, but truly in the sense that there is a lack of knowledge or information that causes the perceived infringement on another.

There are most definitely some cases where people act in malice towards others, either because they don’t care or they believe they have some right. For those who do this, I can only suggest that you consider the consequences. Imagine if every time a boater, or anyone on the water took revenge on every person they believed had done them wrong. Likely this will not resolve the problem, nor will it allow any involved to enjoy the water as they had planned.

Let take a look at perspectives, and knowledge of others and what they are doing. Maybe goals on the water and what would be required to achieve them.

For most of us that fish, having a productive spot to ourselves, without a boat coming inside of 100 yards sounds like a good thing. In some case it may take even more room than that to keep the spot producing. This is very different than what a jet skier would want. For them it would be fun to have boats running nearby so that they can jump wakes. A very different view of how to spend time on the water and easy to see how conflicts could arise.

A wading angler, walking quietly down a shoreline, has a plan of stealthily approaching fish, and if skilled, could easily stay within casting range of fish for long periods. A drifting boat of anglers, no matter how careful, will always make more noise and spook more fish. If you haven’t spent time in clear or very

Michael Dill with a healthy 31 inch marsh red.

shallow water, this may not have ever occurred to you.

After a lifetime of fishing in both shallow and clear water situations, I can tell you that the noises we make in boats definitely alert fish to our presence and reduce our chances of catching them.

Every single thing that moves in the water, no matter how big or small, creates a pressure wave. This is like a sound signature, and tells every animal with a lateral line that there is something nearby. Most fish, can judge the size of the object or animal making the pressure wave in total darkness. This sense is one of many that keep fish safe from harm.

Once we are aware of this, and look for its impact on our fishing, we can see that even a wader can send out pressure waves and make noises that alert fish to our presence. Often this can be why one person catches fish while another nearby does not. Given that fish can so accurately “feel” sounds or movements that can indicate the presence of danger. If fish can be spooked by a wader or a quietly drifting boat, you can only imagine the reaction to a boat running through the shallows at 20 or 30 miles

per hour. Sheer panic is the immediate reaction to such loud noises.

If you fish shallow water long enough, you will without a doubt, witness this first hand. In many cases the cause isn’t intentional. I seriously doubt that we haven’t all sped across a flat, through a marsh or down a shoreline looking for signs or trying to reach a destination spot, never really giving thought to fish along the way. It’s probably not that anglers have a blatant disregard for fish or fishery, but likely that we haven’t fully considered the impact of our actions.

With the ever increasing numbers of people enjoying the bays and lakes, comes greater potential of encroaching on others. Every situation is different and some are more avoidable than others. Classically the case of channels or passes from one area to another create challenges for passing boaters.

Neither has any greater right or privilege, though common courtesy goes a long way.

It doesn’t really matter whether you are operating a boat, kayak, jet ski or even wading quietly, public waters are a first come first served playground, and we

all want to be able to enjoy the discoveries we have found without unwanted interruptions.

Its hard to say there is any set of rules regarding distances or behavior that govern us on the water.

It is however safe to say that if we all give the same consideration that we would ask, time on the water would be much more pleasant.

Taking the time to understand and respect the intentions of others on the water isn’t hard and will likely yield the same respect in return. It only takes a brief moment to determine the direction a boat is drifting or poling, or the direction waders are walking, and shift your course to avoid cutting them off.

Public waters are a source of enjoyment for many varied groups; a resource that needs respect and consideration.

I have no doubt that we as users of the resource can collectively do a much better job of managing that which we all love, than politicians could ever dream of. Our first hand knowledge provides a view that can’t be seen from an office and an understanding that can only come from experience.

The responsibility to be the stewards, falls on each and every user, and the better we can self maintain, the less the likelihood of misguided bureaucratic management.

Fish and fisheries are not an endless resource. Having the right to run a boat basically anywhere we want doesn’t mean its always the best thing to do. Just like having the right to kill our legal limits of fish every day would not be a good way to preserve the fishery.

As much pleasure as we find in our time on the water, we probably all have the same desire to pass this along to the next generation. With a little thought and consideration, we can not only enjoy our time on the water, but also leave it in great shape so that generations to come can experience it as well.

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[UPPER COAST]

CHOKED IT: Kelly Groce hooked and released this bull redfish after it absolutely inhaled her D.O.A. 4” jerkbait.

GRIND IT OUT: Kelly and I with the day’s catch after fishing with Capt. David Dillman.

BY BRANDON ROWAN

MUSTARD MOUTH: The thump of Capt. Lane’s Mad Mullet fooled several speckled trout. A Deathgrip Jighead kept the soft plastic in place after multiple fish.

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Gulf Coast Mariner Magazine July/August 2019

ISHING WITH CAPT. DAVID DILLMAN of Spec-tacular Trout Adventures is always an honor and a privilege. It was early May and my God it would not stop raining.

Luckily, we got a halfway decent window of weather so GCM’s Kelly Groce and I met David at Eagle Point Marina early one morning and we hit the water.

Conditions weren’t ideal but we found some steady action on scattered trout drifting over shell and near structure. D.O.A. Lures 4” jerkbait in Texas Croaker, Down South Lures in Purple Reign and Capt. Lane’s Mad Mullets, paired with Deathgrip Jigheads all put fish in the boat.

Around midday we changed locations and started a new drift. Less than a minute later, Kelly’s rod bowed over and her reel started to sing. She stayed on top of this fish and about ten minutes later we had a big bull redfish in the boat. After some quick photos and high fives, she released the red and it swam away strong.

We ended the day with a nice box of trout and lots of memories and laughs. Eagle Point Marina is a solid launch point into Galveston Bay and Capt.

David Dillman is an even better guide.

TEXAS CROAKER: We caught fish on a couple different lures and colors but D.O.A. Lures’ Texas Croaker color was a hot one that day.

Several trout and Kelly’s big bull red all fell prey to that color combo.

BAY BRUISER: We knew Kelly was in for a fight after hearing how much line this fish stripped from her reel. Ten minutes later, she had the redfish whooped and I was able to put it in the net. Capt. Dillman recorded the fight and thousands watched on social media.

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[LOWER COAST] The afternoon redfish bite has been good on an outgoing tide.

SILVER KINGS AND MORE ON SPI

By Capt. Lee Alvarez SouthPadreIslandFishingTrips.com

(956) 330-8654

“No, don’t hold too tight to the reel. Cause it’s a big one boy. It’s gonna pull you down now.”

T

HAT HAPPENS TO BE ONE

of my favorite lines on the song Pull by Blind Melon. It’s also exactly what was racing through my mind as a 100 lb tarpon made its first appearance on an epic jump while fishing with Capt. Brian Barrera on South Padre Island. In an instant, with a perfectly embedded hook in its upper lip, the Silver King made its first run 125 yards parallel to the jetty towards the Gulf before another spectacular aerial show.

In the last issue, I concluded my article by mentioning the 2019 Shallow Sport Tournament on SPI. This year, I had the pleasure of guiding Team Sportsman, consisting of Rob Youker, his 11 year old grandson McCaden Wolf, JR Torres and his daughter Crystal Torres Brice, all from College Station. Rob is President of The Sportsman Boats in San Benito. The Sportsman is the only authorized Shallow Sport dealer in the Rio Grande Valley and both companies have been honored as leaders in the boating industry. Rob has led this 3rd generation company to a Top

34

Gulf Coast Mariner Magazine July/August 2019

100 Marine Dealership Award in North America for 14 consecutive years.

I met the team early in the morning at Jim’s Pier on SPI and we immediately began discussing the day’s strategy. A few sips of coffee later and a couple of ideas traded back and forth and we were on our way to join the ant line of boats en route to check-in behind Louie’s Backyard. We wanted to make sure we had good positioning before the 6:30 am shotgun start. If you’ve never been in the midst of 250+ boats simultaneously racing off to their favorite fishing holes, then add it to your bucket list of things to do on the Texas coast.

Black drum and speckled trout have been consistent on an incoming morning tide.

Wind was a major factor this year as anglers dealt with stiff breezes in excess of 30 mph. As I said in the previous article, I like me a little bit of gusting wind. Team Sportsman member JR Torres also seemed to favor the breeze as he hauled in a 27 15/16” tournament winning redfish that topped the scales at 8.22 lbs and earned Team Sportsman a 1st Place finish in the Redfish Division. This was JR’s first fishing tournament and we faced some heavy hitters as competition.

How cool is that?

Fishing on South Padre has been nothing short of exceptional as summer has officially kicked off. Redfish action has been solid during the afternoon outgoing tide using a DOA 5.5” Jerk Bait in Texas Croaker on a 1/8 oz. jighead.

When redfish aren’t as eager to eat a lure, drift fishing the flats with cut ballyhoo has been productive. In the cooler and deeper waters off the ICW, speckled trout can be found on both live and artificial baits. Target visible structure while slowly crawling a lure on the bottom until you feel that thump. Black drum have been schooling up in the channels of South Bay and can make for an action packed day of fishing. These herds of fish have been prevalent on both an incoming and outgoing tide. At the jetties, kingfish are also beginning to show up and as I mentioned earlier, so are the tarpon. If you’d like an opportunity at landing a Silver King on the Texas coast, give Capt.

Brian Barrera a call! Until next time, keep fishin.’

[UPPER COAST]

The Good, Bad and Ugly

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

6 TIPS FOR KAYAK SAFETY

A

S A WRITER, SOMETIMES WE

suffer from what is known as “ writer’s cramp.” Coming up with material is not as easy as one would think. I always try to pen something that keeps my readers engaged. I definitely suffered through writer’s cramp, for this July/August article. This writing will focus on events that happened in May, first “the bad and ugly” and then “the good,” as I try to remain positive!

On the afternoon of May 10, 2019 a tug, pushing two barges, and a tanker collided in the Houston Ship Channel. The incident lead to the barge spilling a estimated 9,000 barrels of a substance called reformate. This caused a total closure of the channel, along with a seafood consumption advisory for the middle and upper portions of Galveston Bay. How an accident like this can happen is anyone’s guess. The “saving grace” is that this product floats and it evaporates quickly.

Once it is gone from the water, there is no long term effect on environment or marine life. Couple this with the ITC fire earlier this spring and it has been eventful for the upper portion of Galveston Bay. Then if all this was not enough, Galveston Bay received a large dumping of fresh water from Lake Conroe and Lake Livingston. Then to top it off, we had sustained winds from the E-SE gusting at times to 25 knots for over two weeks.

This of course did not allow the bay system to “flush” the water out through the Galveston jetties. The salinity levels dropped to below 5 parts per thousand in many areas, except in far East Bay, Lower Galveston Bay, the Jetties and West Bay. Now enough of “the bad and ugly,” and onto the “good!”

The “good” to all this is that the bay is slowly but finally clearing up! Fishing has and will continue to be good in those areas not effected by the runoff. The big question is when will fish return to their normal pattern in Galveston Bay? Fish naturally return to the same areas year in and year out. Every incoming tide from now on will push the fish into their “normal areas” for July and August. These areas include the shell reefs of the channel, adjacent gas wells and some areas of Trinity Bay. These fish will even push farther North towards

James R “Chezo” Cesarini, PE.

1. WEAR YOUR PFD This is extremely important and could save your life. Companies like NRS, Stohlquist and MTI make kayak specific type II and type III PFDs that won’t hinder your paddling ability.

Keep a whistle in your vest to alert nearby boaters or persons if you are in distress.

2. KNOW YOUR LIMITS Become familiar with your kayak and abilities, especially if you’re new to the sport. Start out somewhere calm like a local pond, lake or marsh. Practice maneuvers that get you back on the kayak if you fall out (search YouTube for demonstrations.)

3. WEATHER Be aware of the conditions and marine forecast. Avoid going out if heavy storms, high winds or rough waters are in the forecast. Visit NOAA’s website for marine reports and resources on your area.

4. ANCHOR PROPERLY Always anchor from the bow or stern of your kayak, especially in rough conditions. Don’t let waves or choppy seas hit the broadside of your kayak or you could flip over.

Eagle Point VIP Robert Drew

the middle of August, barring any kind of major weather system. Other “good” news is the bait situation at Eagle Point Fishing Camp is getting better. By July their live bait supply should be great, with both shrimp and croaker. Also if your in the mood for some fresh table shrimp, fresh off the boat, give them a call. They can be reached at 281 339-1131 for fishing updates, bait supply and table shrimp.

5. AVOID HAZARDOUS LOCATIONS People drown at San Luis Pass every year. The strong currents and changing tides can create unpredictable situations. Texas City and areas near the Ship Channel can also be dangerous. Keep an eye out passing tankers and their wakes. Turn the front of your kayak into any incoming wakes or waves.

6. FLOAT PLAN Let others know when you plan to be on the water and when you will return. Keep your cell phone with you on the water in case you need to make an emergency call.

GulfCoastMariner.com

35

[LOWER COAST]

(TOP) Summer flounder are great targets around piers and docks, this flat fatty was jigged up on a DOA 3” CAL Shad glow/pink.

(LEFT) Big trout can still be caught in the heat of summertime fun!

smaller soft plastics like the 3”DOA CAL SHAD in natural color patterns, imitating pin perch for all-day action.

RETRO LESSONS IN SUMMER FISHING

By Capt. Joey Farah 361-442-8145 Capt. Joey Farah’s Backwater Adventures

I

N THE FRANTIC RUSH OF SUMMER

live bait fishing, many proven lessons for summer success are passed by.

Those long days of our youth were filled with adventures and memories.

Today it seems like a rush to get out and then get in. Slow it down and turn up the heat on your summer fishing this year!

Here are a few not quite forgotten, but tried and true summer strategies to bring trout, reds, and flounder to hand!

BIG TROUT First light is the best time to find big

36

Gulf Coast Mariner Magazine July/August 2019

summer trout. Protected shorelines will be clean of floating grass, allowing anglers to dance top water plugs over skinny grass flats, shallow rocks and oysters. Big mature trout will be hunting their last meal before retreating to cover and deep water at first light.

A topwater bait imitates a wounded mullet or shad chased up against a shoreline by packs of trout during the night. Throw plugs that you can see at a distance; visual awareness is essential in timing your hookset, as well as aligning your technique with the soul of the ocean.

Look for flats where there are signs of baitfish. Surface action, birds and good tidal flow are a good start. Later in the day, move towards deeper drop offs with

FLATFISH Fantastic summer flounder fishing can be as close as the dock you are standing on! Flounder are mostly a strategic ambush predator. They love to position themselves along the pilings of piers and docks. This is where small shrimp and minnows gather. They will lay just down current of the posts waiting for you to jig a small soft plastic along their sight path.

Step carefully so you don’t rock the dock and to keep your presence unknown. Flounder seem to be more aggressive towards bright colors. White, chartreuse, and pink have always been a coastal favorite. An old timer once told me never use a black net, always a green one! Black nets will send flounder on a bolting run as it looks like a dolphin.

They seem to swim right into a green one.

SUMMER REDFISH Summertime belongs to the redfish!

Chasing redfish during these long summer days can be an all day event.

First light finds them digging and hunting the extreme shallows for crabs, shrimp and small baitfish. Before the sun

WE ASK captains, guides and those in the industry what they’re throwing, for what species and what they’re drinking after a long day of fishing.

MCANINCH OUTDOORS 281-245-5598 | MCANINCHOUTDOORS.COM

Topwaters over the extreme shallows will bring summer redfish to hand.

gets bright and the shadows of birds spook surface mullet, anglers will find reds up so shallow that their tails will be cutting the surface, alerting us to their location. Walking side current will allow you to sneak up on them and project a perfect cast ahead of them.

My best baits are the DOA Shrimp and soft plastics rigged with a very light 1/16 oz. jig head, both for silent and natural sounding entry. Sight casting for reds will teach many lessons in how fish react to fishermen.

At times you will watch redfish bolt towards lures at first sight, but most of the time they are very spooky and dart away from loud baits hitting the water. Cast well past the fish and bring the bait into their path.

Redfish usually have a two foot sight awareness in front of them. They are used to scanning for food sources jumping up in front of their faces.

As the sun rises, switch to topwater plugs and make grid pattern casts over the flats. Scattered redfish will explode on the plugs, and allow anglers to cover large areas of water.

Remember, redfish have bottom facing mouths. This means they must pounce down or turn over to get the bait off of the surface. I always let them bend the rod tip before I set the hook with topwater plugs.

The best and time proven bait for summertime redfish is the gold

spoon! This lure perhaps dates back to the beginning of mankind, as bone and shell tied together to bring fish to hand and mouth. The flash and vibration of the glittering spoon awakes redfish from their resting places in thick grass. It imitates both the flash of perch and mullet, but mainly persuades them it is a fleeing crab, their favorite meal. I work my spoons with a fast retrieve with hard jerks and flutters. I adjust my presentation as needed to a light fluttering and stroking of the spoon over the bottom as well. You need to be loose and try new techniques to match the aggression and moods of the reds.

Target areas void of boat traffic, with grass and sand mixed bottom.

Most redfish will be found in areas containing a good variety of bird life.

Each species feeds on different things; a variety of birds means a buffet of redfish food!

Skip the bait stands and get a head start on your SUMMER FISHING! These lessons passed down from anglers of our past still hold true to our hearts and stringers here along the Texas Gulf Coast. Head out with a few pockets full of these specialized baits, concentrate on fishing and leave your stress on the beach.

Summertime memories seem to last forever long past our last casts.

Down South Lures Chartreuse Flash color

WHEN I’M CHASING speckled trout on Galveston Bay I always have a Down South Lures chartreuse flash with a 3/16 ounce Eye Strike jighead tied on. This is a versatile bait that can be reeled straight or twitched erratically and most of your strikes will come on the fall when the tail is still swimming. I use 30 lb braid on all of my reels with 30 lb fluorocarbon leaders with a loop knot for maximum lure action.

Back at the cleaning tables, I like to enjoy a couple ice cold beers while I’m filleting fish. My preference would be Dos Equis, but whatever is on ice in the Frio cooler works for me.

GulfCoastMariner.com

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BY BRANDON ROWAN

I

WO N ’ T L I E, I was pretty excited to catch these tiny mountain trout. I can see why many are enthralled by these small beauties. There was something magical about being tucked away in the mountains on a cold water creek, the air thick with fly hatches and the sun illuminating the water as it glimmered past the trees.

In late May, my wife Meagan and I flew to Denver and stayed with our friends Emily and Darryl Parsons, who gave us a proper Colorado experience.

Emily showed us the challenging hiking and natural splendor of Hanging Lake and Glenwood Canyon.

The next morning, Darryl and I snuck away to the Front Range and chased after brown trout in Bear Creek. Feeling out of place, it took me some trial and error to pattern these fish. I eventually found a great spot and hooked into several feisty little brown trout using a size 2 gold and black Panther Martin.

The “big one” got away; a brown trout of 12-14 inches assaulted my spinner from behind a rock but threw the hook after a few moments.

Despite its stunning coloration, this brown trout is a master of camouflage in the stream.

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Gulf Coast Mariner Magazine July/August 2019

It wasn’t the same rush of chasing redfish in the marsh or catching yellowfin tuna offshore, but it was a nice change of pace catching these brilliantly colored little trout amongst even more spectacular scenery.

Nearly every Colorado stream or body of water holds aggressive brown, rainbow, brook or cutthroat trout.

This wild Colorado trout was very comfortable in the shallows of Hanging Lake where fishing is prohibited.

GulfCoastMariner.com

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Gulf Coast Mariner Magazine July/August 2019

GulfCoastMariner.com

41

Lemon, Wine & Butter Seared Scallops

BY BETHA MERIT KING

•

1 Tablespoon butter

•

1 pound scallops

•

salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste.

•

2 Tablespoons butter

•

2 cloves minced garlic

•

juice of 1 lemon

•

2 Tablespoons dry white wine

•

salt and pepper to taste

•

2 Tablespoons parsley, fresh chopped OR 1 Tablespoon dried parsley flakes

•

salt and pepper, to taste

Melt 1 Tablespoon butter in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium high heat. Remove the small side muscle from the scallops, rinse with cold water and thoroughly pat dry. Season scallops with salt and pepper. Add scallops to the skillet in a single layer and cook, flipping once, until golden brown and translucent in the center, about 2 minutes per side. Set aside and keep warm.

For the lemon butter wine sauce, melt 2 Tablespoons butter in the pan. Add garlic and stir for about a minute. Add in lemon juice, wine and parsley. Salt and pepper, to taste.

Heat a minute or two and then serve immediately over scallops.

L

ight, savory, and quick to prepare meals are especially welcome as the summer comes on strong. And the fewer ingredients the better. This recipe has a sauce to die for. Use it as an accompaniment over another preferred fish or seafood.

And it can be poured over veggies, rice or pasta. We doubled

42

Gulf Coast Mariner Magazine July/August 2019

Any one of Lagunitas’ fine IPAs, or one from your favorite brewery, pairs well with scallops.

Choose a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc if you prefer vino.

the sauce this time for just that reason, serving it over greens and wild rice.

Both beer and wine pair well with these scallops. A crisp, citrusy sauvignon blanc from the Marlborough region of New Zealand is a perfect foil. And for beer lovers, an IPA (India Pale Ale) is a stunning complement with all those hops.

GulfCoastMariner.com

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Galveston Bay Tides EAGLE POINT, TX NOAA Station Id: 8771013

JULY Sat 6/1

AUGUST

Sun 6/16

Mon 7/1

Wed 7/17

12:04 AM

0.06 L

12:40 AM

-0.35 L

12:05 AM

-0.42 L

01:51 AM

-0.35 L

09:38 AM

1.08 H

11:39 AM

1.17 H

11:43 AM

1.12 H

01:47 PM

1.05 H

Sun 6/2

Tue 7/2

Mon 6/17

Thu 7/18

12:31 AM

-0.09 L

01:18 AM

-0.38 L

12:49 AM

-0.51 L

02:33 AM

-0.29 L

10:49 AM

1.18 H

12:40 PM

1.18 H

12:55 PM

1.18 H

02:30 PM

1.01 H

Mon 6/3

Wed 7/3

Tue 6/18

Fri 7/19

01:05 AM

-0.21 L

01:57 AM

-0.36 L

01:37 AM

-0.55 L

03:12 AM

-0.21 L

12:09 PM

1.25 H

01:42 PM

1.17 H

02:01 PM

1.20 H

02:55 PM

0.95 H

Tue 6/4

Thu 7/4

Wed 6/19

Sat 7/20

01:45 AM

-0.30 L

02:39 AM

-0.32 L

02:28 AM

-0.55 L

03:47 AM

-0.11 L

01:37 PM

1.31 H

02:39 PM

1.14 H

02:51 PM

1.18 H

02:53 PM

0.87 H

Wed 6/5

Fri 7/5

Thu 6/20

Sun 7/21

02:31 AM

-0.34 L

03:22 AM

-0.26 L

03:19 AM

-0.48 L

04:19 AM

0.01 L

02:50 PM

1.34 H

03:25 PM

1.10 H

03:16 PM

1.09 H

02:25 PM

0.79 H

Thu 6/6

Sat 7/6

Fri 6/21

Mon 7/22

03:21 AM

-0.34 L

04:06 AM

-0.18 L

04:10 AM

-0.35 L

04:47 AM

0.15 L

03:43 PM

1.33 H

03:56 PM

1.03 H

03:02 PM

0.97 H

01:45 PM

0.71 H

Fri 6/7

Sun 7/7

Sat 6/22

04:15 AM

-0.29 L

04:50 AM

-0.09 L

04:16 PM

1.27 H

04:08 PM

0.95 H

Sat 6/8

Sun 6/23 -0.18 L

05:32 AM

0.02 L

04:25 PM

1.16 H

03:58 PM

0.86 H

Mon 6/24

06:07 AM

-0.03 L

06:11 AM

0.15 L

04:11 PM

1.03 H

03:33 PM

0.77 H

Mon 6/10

Tue 6/25

07:03 AM

0.17 L

06:49 AM

0.30 L

03:49 PM

0.92 H

03:01 PM

0.70 H

10:35 PM

0.37 L

Tue 6/11 07:58 AM

0.40 L

Wed 6/26

03:25 PM

0.85 H

04:33 AM

0.48 H

10:51 PM

0.32 L

07:26 AM

0.47 L

02:24 PM

0.68 H

10:18 PM

0.20 L

Wed 6/12 05:58 AM

0.66 H

08:58 AM

0.63 L

Thu 6/27

03:00 PM

0.84 H

01:38 PM

0.70 H

11:05 PM

0.08 L

10:30 PM

0.02 L

Thu 6/13 0.89 H

08:50 AM

0.79 H

11:33 PM

-0.12 L

10:54 PM

-0.15 L

09:38 AM

0.93 H

11:26 PM

-0.30 L

Sat 6/15 12:05 AM

-0.27 L

Sun 6/30

10:41 AM

1.11 H

10:35 AM

01:05 PM

0.67 H

08:31 PM

0.40 L

05:42 AM

0.08 L

Wed 7/24

01:59 PM

0.74 H

02:24 AM

0.49 H

09:19 PM

0.40 L

05:07 AM

0.48 L

12:23 PM

0.68 H

08:31 PM

0.24 L

Tue 7/9 01:07 AM

0.44 H

06:18 AM

0.34 L

Thu 7/25

01:33 PM

0.72 H

11:33 AM

0.73 H

09:17 PM

0.15 L

08:54 PM

0.08 L

Wed 7/10

Fri 7/26

01:03 PM

0.75 H

10:13 AM

0.84 H

09:46 PM

-0.08 L

09:28 PM

-0.07 L

Thu 7/11

Sat 7/27

12:18 PM

0.84 H

09:22 AM

0.97 H

10:22 PM

-0.25 L

10:09 PM

-0.21 L

Sun 7/28

10:08 AM

0.95 H

09:56 AM

1.09 H

11:01 PM

-0.37 L

10:56 PM

-0.32 L

Mon 7/29

10:21 AM

1.05 H

10:51 AM

1.18 H

11:42 PM

-0.42 L

11:47 PM

-0.41 L

Sun 7/14

Sat 6/29 1.00 H

0.31 L

0.83 H

Sat 7/13

02:25 PM

09:40 AM

05:09 AM

02:29 PM

Fri 7/12

Fri 6/28

Fri 6/14

-0.16 L

Mon 7/8

05:11 AM

Sun 6/9

Tue 7/23

04:58 AM

1.04 H

11:04 AM

Tue 7/30 1.09 H

Mon 7/15

Gulf Coast Mariner Magazine July/August 2019

1.23 H

Wed 7/31

12:25 AM

-0.42 L

12:40 AM

-0.45 L

11:57 AM

1.09 H

01:01 PM

1.24 H

Tue 7/16

44

11:55 AM

01:08 AM

-0.40 L

12:53 PM

1.08 H

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GulfCoastMariner.com

45

[THE LAST WORD] If you had to have only one lure, what would it be?

I’d say Down South Lures with no hesitation. It’s the most universal bait on the market. You can throw them in any kind of water and in any weather condition.

Tell us about your sponsors.

At age 14, soon after our move to the island, I met Hunter Welch of Fishstix.

We just hit it off and he began to build my rods. Louis Thomas, of Black Marlin Rods, has built my shark rods. Jason Paul with Stinky Pants fishing began to support me early on too. Michael Bosse with Down South Lures has been a tremendous friend and sponsor too.

What are you studying in school and what are your plans after graduation?

I will be a Freshman at Texas A&M Galveston beginning in July. My degree is Maritime Administration. I’d like to either have my own business or work on the rigs when I graduate college.

Aside from fishing, what else are you passionate about?

Bird hunting is my second passion.

Where did you grow up and how did fishing become a big part of your life?

I have grown up with my grandfather; just two of us. As long as I can remember, we’d commute from Houston to Galveston EVERY weekend to go fishing.

Often, we’d fish all night on 61st Street or Jimmy’s Pier on the Seawall and travel home again on Sunday night.

In 2012, my grandfather changed careers and accepted a job on the island so we could move here and I could pursue my passion for fishing! Our first Christmas after relocating, he bought me a kayak. I waded, yakked, and surf fished year round. Saltwater is truly in my soul.

Do you have an all-time favorite catch or fishing moment?

I will always remember my first tarpon.

I was 14 and had been fishing Bob Hall Pier in Corpus all weekend. We went all night without a bite so I was set to fish the morning. I had a group of kids tell me that they saw a couple of fish roll in the morning, so I was determined. I was on the pier by 6 a.m. and hooked my

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Gulf Coast Mariner Magazine July/August 2019

first fish by 6:15 a.m. but it jumped the hook. Shortly after, I threw at another one and hooked it good. I fought the fish for 10 minutes or so before netting it. It measured around 42 inches.

What’s your favorite species to catch?

Setting the hook on big trout will always be the best feeling.

However, this past summer we fished for snook in Southern Florida for about a week and that definitely sealed the deal. We caught a dozen fish in the 35” to 43” range.

Favorite place you’ve ever fished?

Without a doubt my favorite place I’ve ever fished was Sanibel Island, Florida.

The snook bite was incredible and we got to fly fish for tarpon in the mangroves, which has always been on my bucket list.

Last year we added a beautiful black lab puppy to our family. She’s now 11 months old, 70 pounds and loves to be on the water and bird hunt.

What else should we know about you?

I am thankful for my grandfather and the opportunities that he has provided for me. He has sacrificed much for me to live near the water and chase my dreams. I’ve been blessed and would like to always pay it forward.