February 2008

February 2008

Tide Predictions & Solunar Feed Times Inside!

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

contents

Februa ry 2008 Volume 17 No. 10

Editor and Publisher Everett Johnson Everett@tsfmag.com

features

26

Executive vp

Mike McBride

16 Stirring Strikes

Kevin Cochran

22 The Ghosts of Green’s Bayou – Part II

Martin Strarup

26 Pompano, winter sharks…

Billy Sandifer

Shirley Elliott

Chuck Uzzle

Shirley@tsfmag.com

30 Re-think your approach…

40

departments

Pam@tsfmag.com Business Manager

inside sales - Advertising coordinator Tracey Johnson

27 Coastal Birding

Billy Sandifer

28 Tech Discussion – Breaks Happen

Louie Baumann

34 Let’s Ask The Pro

Jay Watkins

38 Fly Fishing

42 Tournament Trails

68

Pam Johnson

10 Somewhere Between Heaven and Hell

Tracey@tsfmag.com Regional Sales Representative Scott Null

Casey Smartt

Scott@tsfmag.com

Brandon Jenewein

46 Offshore

Bobby Byrd/John Cochrane

52 Conservation

CCA Texas

Bart Manganiello

52 7th Abandoned Crab Trap

Art Morris

Bartalm@optonline.net

54 Science and the Sea

UT-Marine Science Institute

56 TPWD Field Notes

Mark Lingo

60 Kayak Fishing

Scott Null

64 According To Scott

Scott Sommerlatte

68 Youth Fishing

Aaron Cisneros

National Sales Representative

Design, Layout & Web Maintenance GRAPHICS BY DESIGN Jasmine and Jackson Gordon Phone: 361-785-4282 Jasmine@graphicsbydesign.biz Jackson@graphicsbydesign.biz

84

94

what our guides have to say…

Subscription – product sales Store@tsfmag.com

76 Dickie Colburn’s Sabine Scene

Dickie Colburn

78 Mickey on Galveston

Mickey Eastman

80 Capt. Bill’s Fish Talk

Bill Pustejovsky

82 Mid-Coast Bays with the Grays

Gary Gray

84 Catching up with Cliff

Cliff Webb

86 Capt. Tricia’s Port Mansfield Report

Capt. Tricia

88 South Padre Fishing Scene

Ernest Cisneros

Editorial

8

Letters to the Editor

Subscription Rates: One Year $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 15th of the prior month’s issue. The U.S. Postal Service does not guarantee magazines will be forwarded.

regulars 6

Texas Saltwater Fishing Magazine is published monthly.

how to contact tsfmag: Phone: 361-785-3420 Fax: 361-785-2844

74 New Tackle & Gear 90 Fishing Reports and Forecasts

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 429, Seadrift, Texas 77983 Physical Address: 58 Fisherman’s Lane,

92 Photo Gallery–Catch of the Month

Seadrift, TX 77983

94 Gulf Coast Kitchen

Web: www.TSFMAG.COM

99 Index of Advertisers

Printed in the USA. Texas Saltwater Fishing Magazine (ISSN 1935-9586) is published

about the Cover

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

Aaron Cisneros is an avid young fisherman and writes our

publication may be reprinted or reproduced. *Views expressed by

monthly Youth Fishing column. Aaron says winter can be a

Texas Saltwater Fishing Magazine contributors do not necessarily express the views of Texas Saltwater Fishing Magazine.

productive season for anglers looking to tangle with flat fish on

Periodical class permit (USPS# 024353) paid at Victoria, TX 77901.

the Texas coast. This one came on a family outing in the Lower

POSTMASTER:

Laguna Madre over the recent Christmas holidays.

Fishing

Send

Magazine,

address Inc.,

changes P.

O.

to

Texas

Saltwater

Box

429,

Seadrift,

TX 77983.

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

TSFMag is the leader in Texas and

growing larger every day, we are now available in over 1500 local retailers!

We’ve got you covered! Retailers in these communities are now stocking our magazine. You can also sign up to subscribe by calling 361-785-3420 or online @ www.TSFMag.com . Reading on-line is also becoming a popular way to take our publication. Check out the FREE archived issues or purchase an E-Mag subscription. E-Mag features include easy to view pages, just like a hard copy, but with instant links to writers, advertisers and other subscriber services.

“We’re in 220 hometowns and growing!”

Alamo Algoa Alice Alvin Angleton Angleton Aransas Pass Atascocita Austin Bastrop Bay City Bay Colony Baytown Beasley Beaumont Beeville Bellville Bishop Blessing Bloomington Boerne Brazoria Brenham Brookshire Brownsville Bryan Buda Bulverde Burleson Burnet Castroville Cedar Creek Cedar Park Channelview Chappell Hill Clear Lake Clute College Station

Conroe Converse Copperas Cove Corpus Christi Cuero Dallas Damon Del Rio Del Valle Devine Dickinson Dilley Donna Eagle Lake Eagle Pass East Bernard Edinberg Edna El Campo Elgin Elmendorf Elsa Falfurrias Fentress Flatonio Floresville Fredericksburg Freeport Friendswood Ft Worth Ft. Lauderdale Fulton Galveston Ganado Gatesville George West Georgetown Geronimo Giddings Goliad Gonzales Groves Halletsville Hankamer Harker Heights Harlingen Just Keep Five

Hawkinsville Helotes Hempstead Hitchcock Hondo Houston Humble Hungerford Huntsville Ingleside Karnes City Katy Kemah Kenedy Kerrville Killeen Kingsville Kingwood Kyle La Grange La Porte La Vernia Lake Jackson LaMarque Laredo League City Leander Leon Springs Lewisville Lockhart Longview Los Fresnos Lubbock Luling Lytle Manvel Marbel Falls Matagorda Mathis Maxwell McAllen Mercedes Mesquite Midfield Midland Mission

Mt. Belvieu Mt Pleasant Mustang Ridge Nacogdoches Navasota Needville New Braunfels Nixon Odem Odessa Orange Palacios Palmview Pampa Paris Pasadena Pearland Pearsall Pettus Pflugerville Pharr Plainview Plano Pleasanton Point Comfort Port Arthur Port Isabel Port Lavaca Port Mansfeild Port O’Connor Portland Poth Raymondville Refugio Richmond Rio Grande City River Park Robstown Rockport Rosenburg Round Rock San Angelo San Antonio San Benito San Juan San Marcos February 2008

Schertz Schulenberg Seabrook Seadrift Sealy Selma Seguin Sherman Shiner Sinton Spring Spring Branch Stafford Stephenville Stockdale Sugarland SugarValley Sweetwater Taylor Temple Texas City The Woodlands Three Rivers Tivoli Tomball Tyler Universal City Uvalde Van Vleck Victoria Vidor Von Ormy Waco Wadsworth Wallisville Waxahachie Weslaco West Columbia Wharton Wichita Falls Winnie Woodsboro Yoakum Yorktown

Texas Saltwater Fishing

Ever since we took over Gene Baker’s old Gulf Coast Connections in April 2001 we have been striving to deliver a saltwater fishing publication that was made-to-order for Texans. The orders, of course, came from readers. Their ideas and suggestions helped transform a tiny 24-page free-issue tabloid into the magazine you are reading today.

Yes, there have been many challenges, and sometimes we found it impossible to deliver instantly, but the content we provide today reflects what thousands of readers have told us they wanted. Looking ahead, the purpose of this message is to send assurance that we remain very interested in what our readers want to see in this magazine, and also to give a heads up for some things we currently have in the works.

A big part of my job has become reading and answering stacks of email and letters. Some of these are published in the Letters to the Editor section, most however receive a simple reply and then get filed by type and category for reference. At the end of each year I build a tally sheet. Through this process, it has become very clear that our readers are hungry for technical advice. Some of the more frequently requested topics are boat, motor and trailer maintenance; reel maintenance; knots and rigging; lure selection; and lure presentation. Questions regarding where to stay, where to launch, and where to start a fishing trip show up quite often. We also receive a fair number of requests for live bait fishing assistance; how to catch bait, where to buy bait, how to keep bait alive; how to rig live bait; and how to fish live bait.

Now I can understand the requests for maintenance related articles, and the lure selection and presentation queries will likely head the list for a long time to come. I have to admit, though, I never expected the number of live bait related correspondence that I have been receiving.

During 2008, we are going to increase the technical content in each issue.

We are going to launch a Guide to Coastal Texas section and also some hopefully helpful content for live bait fishermen. When I announced the live bait decision to a group of our writers during the Houston Boat Show I found several instantly furrowed brows.

But here’s how I explained it. A large percentage of Texas anglers use live and natural bait. Some use it all the time, others use it part of the time.

Even the hardware purists and fly guys had to start somewhere; where we start in fishing has a lot to do with the fishing style of those who get us started, and we grow from there. Some anglers regress to live bait — not in a lazy or backsliding kind of way — but because of reduced physical ability, and sometimes in the effort to get kids and grandkids hooked. So there is a legitimate place for live bait content in our magazine.

Another project we will undertake very soon will be a detailed Reader Survey. We want to know more about our readers and give them a chance to be heard. The survey will do just that. We will provide opportunity to correspond via mailed hardcopies of the survey form and also via our website and the electronic version of this magazine.

Good luck and good fishing, and please remember that reader comments are always most welcome at Everett@TSFMag.com and via USPS at P.O. Box 429 – Seadrift, TX – 77983.

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

Dear Editor, I really enjoy reading your magazine. I pass it on to my grandson. I still believe in the old saying, “Show me a kid who likes to fish and I will show you a good kid.”

This is the first time I have subscribed and am looking forward to a lot of good reading.

Vera Watson Dear Vera, The saying you reference goes hand in hand with the advice we find in Proverbs… “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Here’s wishing you and your grandson good luck and great fishing. Thanks for becoming a subscriber.

Everett Johnson Editor

Alright folks, I wish I could take credit for this but it is the brainchild of Jeffery Boudreaux. Jeff has been a loyal reader since the early days of this publication and Jeff is also a conservation-minded angler. I think his idea for a C&R photo contest is

Dear Mr. Johnson, Thanks for your strong editorial using gifted, kind and respectful words concerning sportsfishermen and their quest for bragging rights in the harvest of large stringers of game fish. Growing up on Galveston Bay since the early 50’s, I have witnessed the drastic changes in the trout population and the fall and rise of Red Fish. I too, am very thankful for all the tips and knowledge I’ve learned from the very best of fishing quides. Because I’ve seen great years of fishing in the past, I now realize there must be a change in our attitudes and disciplines toward fishing. Therefore, for the past 10 years I’ve become very satisfied with C&R and keeping 4 of my smallest fish for dinner. I hope others will strongly consider your encouraging words of wisdom. And yes, Fishing Guides have been my heros.

Please keep up the good work. Your magazine is the best.

Thanks, Wayne King Dear Wayne, Thanks for your kind comments on the September editorial and the magazine.

a dandy.

Here’s how it’s going to work… We will conduct two photo contests this year. The winter-spring contest will be for fish caught January-June 2008. The summer-fall contest will be for fish caught July-December 2008. There will be a prize awarded to the winner of each contest.

Jeff has put up the first $100 toward funding the prizes and we’re going to solicit donations. The winner of each contest will receive a high-quality rod and reel combo and other fishing goodies. And what could top this? (I borrowed that line from a TV commercial.) Having your winning photo on the cover of this magazine — of course!

So here’s the rules… There will be only one winner. Speckled trout photos only; one fish per photo. You may enter as many times as you like. All photos will become property of TSF-Mag. All photos are to be submitted via electronic mail to Everett@TSFMag.com Photos will be judged on photographic quality, artistic merit, and also upon demonstration of conservation ethic. You will submit two photos… the best shot of you and your fish along with another to document the release.

Entrants must comply with all TPWD regulations. Employees, writers, and others associated with this publication are not eligible. Entrants may fish with a TPWD licensed guide, however, the guides and writers on our staff and their clients will not be eligible. Fish must be caught in Texas coastal waters.

Obviously size does matter in the fishing world,

When we entered the publishing business our first goal was to provide

however, the biggest fish is not guaranteed to win. This

uncommon content, full of the kind of information fishermen need.

is a photo contest, not a big fish contest. So remember

We also believe that with every how-when-where segment there should be

the rules for making good photos… Use fill flash,

a slug of conservation ethic, just for good measure.

remove the dark glasses, watch for shadows under the

C&R and only keeping a few will help build better fisheries!

Good fishing, Everett Johnson

Send your letters to: TSFMag, P.O. Box 429, Seadrift, TX 77983

Texas Saltwater Fishing

fishing cap, do not thrust the fish ridiculously forward to make it appear larger than it is, shoot tight, keep the horizon level, set your camera to high or fine photo quality (minimum 300 DPI) and make sure the focus is sharp! Photos made with telephone cameras will not be accepted.

Good luck, fish hard, release your catch, and practice your pitcher takin’!

Everett Johnson, Editor February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

hand signals. The boater yanked back on the

world, we are not going to avoid

throttle, and from close enough he didn’t need

this type of stuff, but maybe we

to holler… “Do you think you own this blankety-

can help to make it better. Just on

blank bay?” The verbal barrage continued as four

the outside chance that somebody

waders exited into the settling prop wash. Tricia’s

reading this is truly innocent, here are

intended signal was more of a “Hey, be cool!

a few of the standard reminders.

There’s a bunch of good fish here!” Regardless, paradise as we knew it right then began to fade.

Another boat materialized, dropped a

Our reaction says a lot about character.

Let’s don’t take boats where they don’t belong. Among other infractions, that’s how the grass gets torn up. Let’s

trolling motor, and proceeded to churn right

also don’t use a trolling motor as an excuse

in between us. The water was so shallow that

to pull in on someone. Just because you

half the troll motor prop was above the surface

see people catching fish, don’t assume that’s

and its sputtering was obnoxious enough to lift

the only place fish are. See what sort of

flocks of birds a good distance away. We were

pattern they are working and try to duplicate it

still catching fish so we did the ignore thing.

elsewhere. If you choose to drift into an area

Suddenly, like another opportunistic gull, another

where other people are fishing, do it off to the

boat shows up. This one, miscalculating, and

side, idle away when you get close, and try

lurching to a comical halt, chased away the few

not to crash into waders.

remaining birds.

Here’s one that few seem to understand

Two other boats pull directly upwind. Their

the impact of; control your waders and keep

drifts brought them to within sandwich sharing

them in reasonable order. Especially for

distance, but before they could give us one,

guides, it’s poor form to let your waders

they fired up the big motors to loop back and do

just wander off willy-nilly and consume an

it again, leaving us in a churning, mud-swirled

area so huge that no one else can get

mess. The catching was over.

close without encroaching. Do that

In an increasing display of human interest, a “porcupine boat” chugged painfully into the shallows a mere fifty yards away. It was a long-

and it’s fairly certain there will be nasty encounters.

There are many things we can

shafted, deep “V” vessel, and its prop cut a

mention as far as fishing courtesy

loud trench of mud until it reached the ‘optimum

goes, but we will always have

spot’ to exchange dead mullet for live redfish.

those who will brazenly go

“Porcupine boat” in this usage is meant to imply

through a ten item check-out

so many rods sticking up that it looks like one.

line with twenty items and

Why two men need twelve rods to catch six fish is interesting. Shortly afterwards, the guy who stuck himself on the flat started shooting mud forty feet into the air. It was time to go.

That scenario is but a small reflection in a big future mirror. In an ever-shrinking saltwater

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

11

others who will keep their right blinker on and go straight in the left lane. However, fishermen have always had the reputation as being good people, and while poor behavior is inexcusable on the water, so are poor reactions to poor behavior. When people do cut you off, get too close or otherwise destroy your efforts, our reaction to it also says a lot about character. If you do something stupid on purpose you deserve to get ripped, but A Floating Corky Fat Boy was the perfect choice.

if you need to flog somebody, wait and do it off the water.

Back in younger surfing days, there was an unwritten law of ‘Karma’ that said if you gave someone a wave, the one behind it would always be bigger. I still believe that. Expect this stuff to happen, plan around it, but don’t let it ruin your experience. Remain faithful, see you there somewhere between heaven and hell, and in the meantime, the fish gods are smiling and the catching is good!

12

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

13

14

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

15

have often stated that lure chunkers like me are ultimately motivated and excited by the act of making fish strike. Fooling wild creatures into confusing a plastic plug with an easy meal satisfies our urges most thoroughly. I like to fight my quarry too; pleasant is the surge of a hefty specimen forging a sharp bend in my featherlight Laguna rod.

But really, unless the trout is of exceptional size, I just want to get it off the line so I can throw my lure back out there and make another one strike. It’s why I prefer lures that lend themselves to finesse presentations; I want my subtle efforts to directly impact the attitude of the trout enough to stir them into biting what I’m offering.

Sometimes, a bite is impossible to detect, and a fish is hooked before I realize I’ve had

16

Texas Saltwater Fishing

a strike. At other times, the strike comes in the form of a violent attack. I’ve had trout nearly loose my rod and reel from my hands several times since I switched to braided line. When a big speck makes a full on rush at a Corky heading straight away, the hookup can seem like grabbing the tail of a runaway racehorse.

My fishing time is spent trying to harness ten pounds of snaggle toothed, gold crusted, polka dotted, eye pleasing power. The most interesting and memorable part of the fight against magnum trout often occurs in the moments just after the hook is set. Mighty fish often display an acrobatic, head-shaking style when responding to the pressure of a hookup. They can move with shocking speed and make unpredictable runs in attempt to remain alive, wild and free.

When I think back over my years of fishing for trophy trout, several unforgettable events

February 2008

inevitably come to mind; most involve strikes, hookups and initial reactions made by big fish.

Below are details related to some of the craziest strikes and fights I’ve ever seen.

I recall catching a prize-winning trout off a tiny reef tight to a sandy shoreline in West Matagorda Bay in an August Troutmasters event. But what I remember most about that day is the fish I hooked but didn’t land. She was the twin to the one I took to the weigh-in. I’d caught the first fish at the tip of the shell hump, and after stringing the twenty eight incher on the sandy beach, I walked back into the water and began casting past the reef and working my Super Spook through the spot again.

Every mullet that swam toward the reef would turn, leap and flee before passing close to its end. I knew this likely meant there was

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

Fish hooked awkwardly like this pull harder. What a treat!

another fish sitting where the first had been. On the third cast, she rose like an apparition in a bulb of water right under my long white plug, but she didn’t commit enough to stick.

I thought I’d lost my chance at her, but I continued to cast back to the spot anyway, hoping she’d give me one more opportunity, and she did.

On the tenth cast, she raced off the edge of the oysters with her mouth wide open and jerked my plug off the surface, creating a bright white splash and making a swooshing sound audible over the summer wind.

I raised my rodtip as quickly as I could, and she reacted by turning back toward the reef and thrashing violently in place, her whole body writhing vigorously. Before I could pull her off the shell, she put her head down and I saw her wide black tail stick straight up out of the water when my line fell limp. She’d broken me off on the reef.

Then I knew the agony of watching her swim around with my Spook stuck to the side of her broad purple head. I hope she was able to rid herself of the heavy plug, since she deserved to live after making such a noble and effective effort to disconnect herself from me.

Another colossal trout escaped after a battle between us, but the memory of my tricking her remains with me to this day. I hooked her on a calm, foggy morning, the last day of February, 2005. Two customers and I had been struggling through a slow bite in the slick conditions, but we’d already managed to catch two five pound trout and two thirty inch reds. I knew there were some giant trout in the area and had told the guys that if the wind started to blow just when the moon began to rise, we’d have a chance at a lifetime-best fish.

I’d almost given up on the spot and was www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

heading toward the boat to move to another location when I felt the first hint of a coming breeze brush my cheek. “Keep fishing,” I told the others. “The wind just started up and we’re not going anywhere at the moment.” Right after I said that, a steep wake appeared behind my baby trout Skitterwalk and a bronze back and head showed in a sphere of foam when a redfish tried but failed to pick off its meal.

A few casts later, I saw a trout that looked to be about four pounds do a somersault in the air after attempting to arrest my steadily walking plug. Chuckling, I gave the fish a second chance to come back and attack on that cast, but when it didn’t, I reeled quickly in and threw back to a spot perhaps three feet past the site of the original strike and worked the floater through the area.

Within inches of the other miss, a virtual volcano of Baffin salt erupted and I watched, amazed, as a trout that looked more like a tarpon blasted out of the water with my Skitterwalk dangling precariously from her lip.

She jumped repeatedly, danced on her tail and shook her torso like a gymnast on steroids while I and my wide eyed clients watched with open mouths. I did all I could to maintain pressure despite the antics of the frenetic creature as she ripped this way and that, leaving a trail of foam and muddy water behind her. After the initial spasm, the fish swam straight at me so fast that I couldn’t keep slack out of the line; I had to actually step aside to prevent her from bumping into my legs.

When past me, she began circling steadily away. Hoping to prevent her from turning freaky again, I applied light pressure on her, as is my usual way. She’d gone perhaps seventy five feet when my rod lost its bend and my plug bobbed up to the surface. My heart and stomach then churned as one, and I spent most of an hour trembling, cursing and feeling sorry for myself.

I still deeply regret the loss of that fish, but I also realize I was privileged to have witnessed the show she put on after I teased her into taking a bite.

I was able to coax my first thirty inch trout into striking twice. She missed my bone Spook initially, but when I reeled in and threw back at her, she struck again and felt the curve of sharp steel pierce her lip. The blowup of that fish was basic; a textbook ball of foam appeared around my plug, accompanied by the “kablooj” sound a wide mouth makes when cupping water. What was incredible about that catch was the immediate and impressive reaction the nine pounder made when she felt the weight of me and my equipment.

She shot into the air like a rocket, gracefully flying ten, maybe twelve feet to the side, reaching a zenith a full two feet above the gently rippled February 2008

waters of Baffin Bay. When she landed, she continued racing sideways, seeming to scoot over the surface like a crocodile, slithering and spraying up a sparkling curtain of droplets. The fight of that fish was short-lived, her first attempt at escape so forceful that it exhausted her in a couple of minutes. She rolled on her side and came to hand easily in the end.

The only trout I’ve ever killed for mounting purposes, she now hangs on the wall above my computer screen. Earlier this year, I caught and released a fish that I’ll likely remember forever as having made the strangest and most exciting strike I’ve ever seen.

We were fishing in crystal clear waters in a dense fog most of the morning, and had caught plenty of fish when the veil lifted to reveal a bright winter sky. I could see then that we were standing in a school of various kinds of fish of different sizes. I spotted some oversized drum, several slot reds, shoals of nervous mullet and dozens of speckled trout too.

Though we’d caught fish under the mists on a variety of plugs, the worm became more effective after the sun came out. I tied on a blue green, glass minnow lookalike, then found myself tossing at the edge of a wide grass bed and catching small keeper trout on nearly every cast.

On the unforgettable pitch, I watched a group of four or five trout gather around my lure. Tickled, I began reeling it a little faster, happy to discover that they’d chase when I did. When I had coaxed them to within about fifteen feet of me, I stopped reeling and let the lure drop, then hopped it sharply back up among the fish. One snapped at it, and I raised my rod to set the hook, but the lure slipped past the fish’s lip.

Sometimes redfish bite and even fight like big trout. We all get fooled occasionally.

This ten pounder tricked me.

Texas Saltwater Fishing

17

So I hopped it up and down again and another of the fish went for it. That time, I set the hook and watched as the lure dug into the side of the trout’s lip. My rod doubled over in a full flex before the hook came loose again. When it did, the straightening graphite whipped the worm right up out of the water in front of me.

Suddenly, on the left periphery of my vision, I glimpsed a silver flash and in an instant, a five pound trout leaped out of the shallows and snatched my worm at least two feet clear of the water’s surface! When she tackled the lure midflight, I felt a jarring thump, as if my soft plastic had been whacked with a baseball bat. I was already laughing when she splashed down, thrilled by the unlikely event I’d witnessed and happy to pull back as the fat, frightened fish made her spastic attempt at a getaway.

It still baffles me how the fish timed the attack and intercepted the fast-flying worm with such precision. I spent the rest of that day replaying

18

Texas Saltwater Fishing

the scene over and over in my head, chuckling out loud as I did. I doubt I’ll ever see such a high-flying strike again.

Of course, I can’t take any credit for a precise presentation in that case. I was the lucky beneficiary of the effects of strong urges that sometimes control schooling fish.

Catching an airborne trout is cool indeed; that statement needs no analysis. But when I do analyze the details of these events, they illuminate some conclusions. I’m reminded that it’s important to make repeated casts to a spot once a fish is located. Secondly, these anecdotes show that a fish watching others eat will usually join the frenzy, also that big trout can be caught in the presence of smaller trout. I’ve heard trophy trout experts assert that big fish can’t be caught among small fish, that the big girls are loners and the search for them often involves leaving schools of lesser fish, but I believe the opposite. Sometimes, catching a bunch of small fish will attract the attention of

February 2008

bigger fish in the area and competitive urges then might make them easier to entice into striking.

It is often simple to attract the attention of fish with a lure but harder to trigger them to strike. Triggering strikes is the most important part of the lure chunking/fish catching equation, once fish are located. Junkies like me are never more satisfied than when fish verify the correctness of our efforts by opening their lips and biting what we present to them.

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

19

20

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

21

Bodie waded over and took a look at Tommy’s finger. Blood had been drawn but it wasn’t much more than a scratch.

Bodie pulled Tommy’s gig out of the sand and put

old hoot owl is all that was,” Tommy thought aloud. But still he didn’t move for a minute, and then nervously he started forward towards the distant boat.

Bodie thought that for a minute that Tommy might

the flounder on Tommy’s stringer. “There’s too many

have seen his flashlight as he made his way through the

flounder out here to stop because of a little scratch like

rattlesnake infested sand dunes, but as far as he could

that Tommy, go on back to the boat and use the first-aid

tell, Tommy was still staring at the boat and up towards

kit and patch it up. I’m going to move on a few hundred

where the old ambulance use to be. The bird flying

yards or so and then I’ll meet you back at the boat. You

between Tommy and the boat was pure luck and kept

might want to try wading the other way for a bit and see

Tommy looking away from where Bodie crouched.

what you find near those sloughs,” Bodie said.

Tommy made it back to the boat and put his fish on

“Oh and Tommy… if any of those ghosts start

ice. He looked around, but everything seemed peaceful

shooting at you, you might want to get rid of that shell

and quiet with the stillness broken only by the splashing

casing you found,” Bodie added for effect.

sound of something chasing mullet. Tommy decided

Turning quickly so Tommy couldn’t see the smirk on

to have a beer and some summer sausage and was

his face, Bodie started moving away. “Very funny Bodie,

digging in the ice chest unaware that Bodie was only a

oh that’s just hilarious, you should be on TV you’re so

few dozen feet away in the pitch darkness. As Tommy

funny,” Tommy sneered.

pulled a beer from the cooler, he heard a loud BANG

Tommy stared off into the darkness, making out the stern light on the outboard of Bodie’s boat and turned

that rang out from the dunes.

“HOLY MOTHER OF ALL THINGS GOOD!” he

to tell Bodie that he didn’t think his thumb was that bad,

yelled as his beer flew one way and the stick of summer

but Bodie was already a good distance away.

sausage went the other. Tommy dove to the deck and

Tommy started wading back to the boat, only now

crawled behind the center console as more shots rang

and then looking for flounder, but keeping a good eye

out. In his mind he could hear the bullets thudding into

in the direction of the old ambulance. “Ghosts,” Tommy

the hull of the boat.

half-heartedly chuckled out loud, “heck, there ain’t any ghosts out here.”

Tommy stopped and stared out into the dunes,

Bodie was in tears and laughing so hard silently he could barely breath, much less find the energy to stomp on another dried up and inflated Man-of War. He

his eyes trying to see into the darkness but the old

had to sit down and laugh into his shirt to keep Tommy

Coleman lantern was killing his night vision. “That sure

from hearing.

did look like a light to me,” Tommy muttered out loud to himself.

Tommy stayed where he was for a good 15-minutes,

As soon as he regained his composure, Bodie moved a few feet and started stomping on some more of the dried up stinging machines. POW, POW, POW

just staring into the darkness turning now and then to

echoed across the water and Bodie heard Tommy yell

look for Bodie and hoping that he was on his way back,

from the boat… “I don’t want your old shell casing, here

but Bodie was so far away. Tommy couldn’t even see

you can have it back!” Bodie heard the old 40mm shell

his lantern light.

casing kerplashing into the water.

As Tommy started moving back towards the boat a shadow passed between him and the light on the boat

22

and that stopped Tommy in his tracks! “That was just an

Texas Saltwater Fishing

In his scariest and ghostliest voice Bodie called out… “oooooooooo, who stole our shell?”

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

Tommy screamed from under the console, “I

between the center console and the leaning

all full of holes and they almost shot me too,

didn’t steal it, I found it but I put it back, for real,

post. “You sleeping down there Tommy?”

we’ve got to go home, Bodie, we have to

I did, I put it back, I swear!”

Bodie asked.

go now!”

Bodie couldn’t stand it much longer and

“Oh Bodie, Bodie, where HAVE you been?”

Bodie would have liked to spent the night but

quietly moved into the dunes and headed back

I’ve been waiting on you forever and we need to

Tommy wasn’t having any of it. In fact, Tommy

for his lantern and stringer of flounder, tears

get out of here Bodie, there’s ghosts over here!”

was so scared and shook up that Bodie had to

running down both cheeks, laughing so hard he

Tommy cried.

tell him what he had done. He had to show him

could barely walk.

“Ghosts?” Bodie growled back in his

A bit later, Bodie made his way to the boat and found Tommy curled in a fetal position

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

manliest voice.

there were no bullet holes in the hull and then took him up on the shoreline and showed him

“Ghosts Bodie and they done shot your boat

February 2008

the Man-of-Wars that he had stomped on.

Texas Saltwater Fishing

23

Still unbelieving and staying really close, Bodie found one of the stinging nasties still

the old ambulance had been, out where there

inflated and stomped on it so Tommy could hear

was nothing but sand.

what it sounded like. Tommy got mad but then

Tommy looked at Bodie all wide-eyed but

told Bodie, “I knew it was you all along Bodie,

Bodie didn’t say a word. He started the outboard

and I didn’t want to ruin your little joke, but I

and started following the track back to port at a

really am tired and I want to go home.”

faster than usual speed for night running. “What

Tommy offered a few short nervous laughs but he couldn’t convince himself, much less Bodie, that he wasn’t scared.

Bodie punched some buttons on the GPS

do you think that noise was Bodie?” Tommy asked.

“More than likely some aluminum floundering boat or something, Tommy.” Bodie replied.

and just before he fired the outboard up, he and

“I think it was ghosts, Bodie,” Tommy said.

Tommy both heard what sounded like metal

Bodie looked at his friend and said, “I know

doors slamming shut and it was really a loud

24

sound. The noise came from the direction where

Texas Saltwater Fishing

you do Tommy, I know you do.”

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

25

Top: Steve Naylor of Round Rock - 27 1/2” speckled trout weighing 7 1/2 lbs - 04 Dec 07 - CPR! Left: Vance Vordam with 15 and 18 lb. jack crevalle sightcast from the PINS surf on foggy morning 18 Dec 07.

I would say that 2007 turned out to be a most unusual year from start to finish. Sargassum was present on our beaches in varying amounts throughout the year and water temperatures that refused to reach normal levels throughout the summer are now abnormally warm in early winter. Fish species presence was anything but predictable. Data from long term log books has been of little help and it’s made for a tough year of catching. To summarize, throughout 2007, the pattern was a complete lack of a pattern. Sure keeps a fella on his toes.

Some things did happen in predictable fashion, though, youngsters went back to school and many outdoorsmen went hunting; right about that same time the fish went on the best bite of the year.

Vance Vordam hooked up on jack crevalle 18 Dec 07 - This is the latest date I’ve ever witnessed jacks on PINS.

26

Texas Saltwater Fishing

For years, folks have asked me, “When does surf fishing really get good?”

I always grin and offer the same reply, “The opening weekend of dove season.”

That’s usually true, but it held off till midNovember in 2007 and lasted through the end of the year. Catching has been excellent. Expected species have been available any time surf and wind conditions allow angling for them in high numbers and other species which are usually gone this late in the year have remained available. Florida pompano up to 5 ½ pounds are being caught regularly in the greatest numbers seen in several years if not the greatest numbers ever seen.

Recently I heard of a 4 man group that caught 73 of them in a single day.

There seems to be some misunderstandings about the habits of pompano and the techniques required to catch them in our area and I’d like to clear that up.

Pompano are present in the Coastal Bend year round. For whatever reason they move into the shallower surf in large numbers during the colder months and retreat to deeper nearshore waters during the warm months. They are crustacean feeders and a small piece of fresh peeled shrimp combined with “Fishbites” and fished on the bottom has long proven the most productive way to target them.

February 2008

Pompano are available regularly in the surf zone October through March in varying numbers.

Many anglers seem to think the only way to be successful with pompano is to use heavy long distance casting tackle capable of delivering baits far offshore. This is indeed productive but at the same time the heavy tackle sure takes a lot of the fun out of landing a 2 or 3 pound fish.

If one is fishing along a shallow water stretch of beachfront this technique may well be an advantage or even a necessity, but in the deeper water stretches of beach we’ve done just fine with pompano on the same light tackle we use for lure fishing for trout. Daiwa’s 8-1/2 medium light action spinning rods and 10 pound test have put many a pompano in the ice chest and allowed the angler a lot more fun in the process for decades.

As the water temperature in the surf zone decreases, the pompano will move closer and closer in on the beachfront and during January and February I have caught as many as 9 in a day on 51 M Mirrolure Twitch Baits while trout fishing.

But most days a long cast with a 2 or 3 oz. sinker produces best. The trick is that often heard one, “location, location, location.”

Target areas with no wade gut and easy access to a deep, wide first gut with a break in the outside bar; a rip, and the pompano will be glad www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

to oblige you. Whiting are also extremely abundant in the surf during the winter and if your cast is short they become pests when targeting pompano as they tend to be closer inshore than the pompano. Neither of these fish is subject to size or bag limits in Texas.

Blacktipped, bull and sandbar sharks have also been caught regularly throughout November and December and on November 26 Brian Sessions caught and released a male 8’ 8” tiger shark. Congratulations Brian and way to go on the release. There is a small number of dedicated or perhaps they are better termed “overly addicted” shark fishermen who regularly fish the beach of PINS throughout the winter months.

Solitude and regular catches make up for chilly weather and water conditions but it’s still a tough sport. Most of the winter shark catches are made in the late afternoons or at night. I’ve never quite figured that one out but that’s the way it is. Most of these sharks are caught on kayaked baits or baits taken offshore with a Zodiac inflatable boat. It has occurred to me that there seems to be a parallel between the number of pompano in the surf and the availability of sharks in the winter surf. Hmmm!

On 18 December Vance Vordam and I drove up on a school of large jack crevalle feeding at the water’s edge and sightcasted two of them. This is the latest date record I have for jack crevalle on PINS. To confuse even more, it was a foggy, cloudy morning with light drizzle; everything jack crevalle don’t like. On 20 Dec. I landed a 4-1/2 pound Spanish mackerel while plugging for speckled trout and saw several others. Again, that is awfully late for this species. And to top it all off, stray tarpon were reportedly jumped from both the Port Aransas and Port Mansfield jetties in midDecember. Guess it just goes to show that you never know till you go.

This could change, but as of now the word is that there will be changes in the policies concerning parking at Bird Island Boat Ramp starting March 1, 2008. I don’t know all the details but have read that parking will no longer be allowed on the shoulders of the entrance road and that the total combined vehicle and boat trailer lengths allowed to park there will be limited to 40 feet maximum. That’s sure going to leave a lot of us over the limit to utilize that facility.

A real solid tip for everyone planning a trip this time of year is to constantly get updates on the weather forecast. Incoming cold fronts speed up or stall when approaching the coast and they don’t seem to feel any loyalty towards weathermen.

A hard fact I learned long ago was that of the charters I lose to weather during the winter months I will lose more to the weather forecast than to what the weather actually does.

2008 will see a new fishing show coming out on the Outdoor Channel. It’s called “Reel Legends” and is based on profiling a select few long term CAPT. BILLY SANDIFER successful anglers from various regions of the U.S.A. When they sent out inquiries for someone in the coastal region of Texas they were referred to me. What’s up with that?

Anyway, Bill Sherk and Aaron Achtenberg flew in from Minneapolis the second week of December and filmed with me and my customers and pals. The show will air sometime Billy operates Padre Island Safaris. between January and March, 2008.

His specialties are fishing for sharks to specks in the Padre Hmmm! Wonder if them guys that Island surf and bayfishing for trout recommended me were mad at Bill and redfish from a poled skiff. and Aaron or do they owe me money?

Anyhow, if you get a chance to see the Contact Billy Sandifer show I’ll bet these guys did a good job Telephone with it. Life’s a Hoot! Go get you some 361-937-8446 of it.

Website Be Careful, Be Courteous, Be Kind. www.billysandifer.com www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Body Length: 17.5” Wing Span: 32” Weight: 1.4 lbs.

Exclusively coastal from Cape Cod to Chile. Found on beaches and shell bars where it feeds on mollusks, crabs and marine worms. A very striking, noisy and heavy-bodied black headed shorebird with a dark back, white belly, large white wing and tail patches and a large straight red bill which is flattened laterally. Yellow eye with a red eye ring. Breeds on spoil islands. Population in decline.

Texas Saltwater Fishing

27

Before I started on this article I had a discussion with the boss on how to write it. Actually, it became a rather heated debate, but in the end it was decided the topic was good and needed to be addressed. How to explain it was going to be louie baumann the hard part. Here goes.

Baumann Marine Over the past couple of years we have Propellers been seeing an increasing number of 713.926.6908 propellers coming in with broken blades. These propellers have been produced by a range of manufacturers from the world’s largest to local hand-builders. They’ve been made by every manufacturing method, one piece castings to weld-on blades. Naturally, when something’s broken you suspect somebody hit something; but the owners claim otherwise. There is however one consistent theme; and that would be the type of hull they have been running on. You guessed it, shallow-water tunnel boats, one of the toughest propping jobs.

So the question arises: Why are so many props breaking in this application?

Well, the answer is, “loading” and the easiest way to explain it is, “the paper clip effect.”

If you take a piece of metal and bend it back and forth enough times it will eventually become fatigued and break.

This is exactly what happens in a ventilated tunnel application.

With every revolution of the prop shaft, the blades undergo loading and unloading. Think of it as the blade flexing every time it bites the water. At first this doesn’t sound like much, but add water pressure on the blade’s face and repeat about 2500 times for every minute of operation and you will find the blades get a workout. The effective pressure is magnified by the area of the blade, the amount of cupping, as well as the water/air ratio going through the tunnel. This doesn’t even begin to get into the real pressure added to a blade as it is screwed through mud or sand while trying to get a fully loaded boat on plane in skinny water.

Look, we know you are going to use your equipment to its maximum, but most go way past that. Just listen to a flats boat as it cruises the shoreline right before it cuts off your quiet morning wade.

The sound of the motor is constantly changing with the loading and unloading of the propeller, and that propeller is taking an awful beating.

One of Scott’s comments during our discussion… “Fishermen need to think about it like this, if you took your car four-wheeling a couple of times a week for several hours each time, something’s gonna break.” He has a point. So be prepared, be diligent in checking your equipment after each use, and most of all — Be Careful!

Bre BreaksHappen reaksHa appen

28

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

29

n all the major bay systems along the Texas gulf coast, diehard big trout hunters are licking their lips in anticipation of finding that one truly big speckled trout of a lifetime. The late fall and winter months are regarded as the best times to pursue real wallhanger size trout, and here on Sabine lake we are no different. In the past couple of years we have seen some amazing things come our way to change the way we as anglers looked at fishing. Some or most of these ideas are not for everybody, they involve more than your fair share of empty grueling hours in less than ideal conditions so beware and be prepared. I am not by any means trying to persuade anyone not to try this type of fishing; I am only being honest about what kind of effort it takes to reap rewards that were long thought impossible for our lake. I will promise you this though, if you try these tactics and experience even minor success you will understand how addictive this whole process can be.

Fishing in the winter months, after the gulls seem to have left for vacation and the shrimp have all but disappeared, means you must do a couple of important things in order to be successful. Finding the warmest water in your area and finding baitfish such as mullet in that area is a great sign. According to Parks and Wildlife studies water temperatures in the 60 to 80 degree range are the best for catching speckled trout.

During the winter months as the

30

Texas Saltwater Fishing

surface temps dip into the low 50’s it is a must to slow your presentations and possibly offer up a little bigger bait.

Tried and true late winter and early spring producers like Corkies and Catch V’s should be in every fisherman’s tackle box as well as a few others that don’t get quite as much press.

In years past I have really become a fan of the stick baits or shallow divers like the Rapala X Rap and Yozuri Minnows. A new plug that has really made a nice showing is the Rapala X Rap Sub Walk; it has great hardware and is super easy to work. This plug is designed to be able to walk the dog under water and seduce those finicky fish that won’t come to the surface. In all of the sessions that I have thrown the new Sub X I have been impressed as have my clients. I am anxious to see how it compares to other sub-surface offerings during the winter, if this past summer is any indicator I’m thinking the new Sub X will do very well.

Winter fishing always invites the heated debate between waders and drifters, which method is better and who catches more fish.

Wading is one of those techniques where you either love it or hate it. Some fishermen cannot stand the work involved or the cold water temps while others thrive under these conditions. All I can tell you is to try it out and see for yourself, the results are often worth the effort. Now don’t get me wrong, wading is not the “end all — be all” technique that will guarantee you instant success, although at certain times it might appear that way. There is nothing cooler than watching boat anglers grow frustrated in their effort to get into an area where you are catching fish and their boat won’t go; you can just see their frustration mount every time you land a fish.

If wade fishing proves to be something you

February 2008

are not willing to pursue, don’t worry, you can drift over the scattered shell reefs on Sabine Lake and still have a good shot at catching that big fish. The same baits that work for waders will also catch big fish from a boat, provided you take a few things into consideration. Noise and boat control are tops on the list of factors that will determine success or failure. Careful anglers know that slamming hatches and dropping gear on the floor of a boat can spook fish and quickly turn a prime area into a virtual ghost town. Also, setting up on one of these areas takes careful planning and the right gear.

The Power Pole or Stake-Out Stick is a great way to position your boat in order to fish an area more thoroughly. People who think you can’t catch big fish from a boat need to re-think that statement because with a little effort you can certainly score that fish of lifetime without having to get wet or wade.

As the mercury dips, don’t let that stop you from fishing, just be prepared. February on the Texas gulf coast can be downright brutal with all the rank weather we receive at this time of the year. Bone-chilling winds coupled with humid overcast days can make even the toughest fisherman wish for a warm spot in the truck and hot cup of coffee. As the temperatures outside sag down near freezing most anglers take precautions and wear the best foul weather gear they can get their hands on. Nobody forgets to grab that windproof jacket or the thermal underwear because those are no-brainers. The one piece of outerwear that nearly every fisherman does without is

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

the most important, a life jacket. Yes I am just as guilty as the next guy when it comes to not wearing a PFD (Personal Floatation Device) but that is going to change this year, that’s my own personal resolution for 2008 and I will tell you why.

Several years ago I met a guy who became one of my best friends; I actually took him on his first real saltwater trip into Sabine lake as well as many trips to Toledo Bend. This guy took to the sport of fishing like there was no tomorrow and he got pretty good at it along the way. Before too long he purchased a boat and was fishing every chance he got, mostly in Sabine lake because it was close to home. He figured out some of the subtleties of the sport and seemed to understand how to fish and where to go, he had found his hobby.

During one stretch of winter months my friend, who mostly fished by himself, made what appeared to be another normal trip out on the bay. The weather was a little rougher than he liked it so he decided to head for a protected shoreline on the east side of the lake. Now if you have ever been on Sabine Lake you know there is little traffic in the wide open middle part of the lake, especially on choppy days. Now my friend is making his way across the lake as best he can, considering the waves and direction of the wind. All was going according to plan until he had motor trouble, which was the first problem. As the boat stalled out and drifted helpless against the conditions it was just a matter of time before he started taking waves over the transom. It was just minutes until the boat began to stand nose up, sinking.

Can you imagine the feeling?

Within minutes the boat was completely capsized and floating miles from any shore

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

with my friend clinging to the bow eye for dear life. Now mind you this is winter and the water temps are low 50’s so you can just visualize the shock his system has just gone through. While telling me his story he said he really thought he might die before someone came to help, either from drowning or hypothermia. Some 30 minutes into the horrifying ordeal he spotted a crabber nearby running his traps, calling to him did no good as he was just too far away. That must have been tough to see help so close yet so far away.

After another 20 minutes in the water his prayers were answered as two men in another boat happened to see him as they were headed back to the dock. The kind strangers gave him a slicker suit to put on and rushed him back to the dock to seek medical attention at the Coast Guard station. A warm shower, cup of coffee, and dry clothes were welcome reminders that he had reached dry land and indeed was safe. Every time we fish together I thank the big fisherman upstairs for those 2 men who saved my friends life.

That story really hits home when it’s someone you know and realize that just as easily could have been me or you. Now I agree that the old style PFD’s were uncomfortable and bulky, that’s why nobody wanted to wear them. I am guilty of only wearing one if I have my son Hunter in the boat with me instead of wearing one all the time. With all the new styles of PFD’s out there you can surely find one that suits you, I have fallen in love with the suspender style models that can inflate on their own or can be inflated manually. They are comfortable and easy to fish in which means they are less of a hassle to wear.

In addition to wearing the PFD, it’s a great idea to add some sort of signaling device to it,

February 2008

like a whistle. The sound of a whistle can be heard much farther that your voice, especially if you have been screaming for a while or get cold. I have waded with anglers who wear just such a set up and it has many helpful uses. I know one fisherman who used the whistle to signal for help when he got stuck by a ray and couldn’t walk. Just something to think about next time you head out on the water.

Texas Saltwater Fishing

31

32

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

33

Here’s a nice trout caught in cold mud/shell/grass.

It is hard to believe that another year has come and gone.

stage at a trout

It seems only a few months ago we were talking

weigh-in that

about the upcoming 2007 season. As we

sounded cocky

age, time passes faster, I believe. I guess it is

but was not

because we tend to enjoy each moment more

meant to. I said,

and we all know the good stuff happens fast.

“trout water is

Before I get into this month’s article I would like

trout water no

to compliment Mike McBride on his writings in

matter where you find it.” To this day

this magazine last month. You’re right Mike, it’s

I feel the same way.

not about the fish; it’s about the relationships.

My relationship with Cliff Webb and his

Trout water has a look and feel to it. For me it is typically about crotch

family started in waist deep 47-degree water

deep and it must contain suitable

on a bitter cold February afternoon. Little did

bottom structure for the given area.

we know that the companionship and respect

Some areas harbor an abundance of

forged that day would outweigh the double digit

bottom grasses that grow in a variety

heavy-weights that hang on my wall today. I

of depths due to above average

don’t remember every detail about the fight

water clarities. In other areas it

those fish gave me, but I do remember the high

may be shell or rocks. For every

fives and even a hug from The Master after

area there is a predominant type of

landing a fish that went well over the 10½ pound

structure. Once you know that and

mark. Thanks Mike for revitalizing the reason I

know where to find it, half the battle is over.

do what I do.

Now let’s talk about February fishing.

I prefer structure that I can see, maybe

This is where the FEELING part of recognizing trout water starts FEELING it’s best.

when I am fishing a new area, especially an

not too well, but well enough to cast toward.

area where everything looks good. The Tide

February has to be one of the most anticipated

This allows me to place my lure exactly where

Gauge bar is that way for me. The inside and

months of the year for Texas trout enthusiasts. I

it needs to be over and over. I am a firm believer

outside look good, but inevitably the trout are

for one love the prospects that February brings

in making repetitive casts to the given structure

located where the water looks like trout water to

for taking a lifetime-class trout.

of the day. Often times the bite comes only

me. What I see may not be what some others

after many casts to a single piece of that

see, but my brain contains a fairly good picture

preferred structure.

of what looks right and what does not, so when

February is also a time when many saltwater anglers have their fishing on hold. This opens up shorelines and allows those of us willing to

The structure I am fishing must possess

my eyes lock in on it my brain starts talking to

brave the colder conditions many more choices.

some bait activity. Lets be clear, not every piece

me. This is why it is so important to look through

Sure there are plenty of serious trout anglers

of structure in my chosen area needs to support

the water as you fish.

that crowd in on some of the more popular

hordes of bait, but some is an absolute “must

areas but these are not the only areas that hold

see” for me. The bait gives me the confidence

close attention to each cast and to the location

trophy size trout.

Take in every detail you can and pay very

to stay and do the slow grind, and slow grinding

of every bite. You will be amazed at how much

The purpose of this article is to help

is something every trophy trout fisherman can

your onboard computer will retain. Your brain is

you locate some of these areas yourself by

do. Show me a track star on a prime big trout

the computer, the best ever built, more memory

recognizing what good trout water looks and

mud hole that catches some fish now and then

that we can even begin to use or recall.

feels like. I will tell you up front that the look you

and I‘ll chalk that off to luck. Have you ever

can learn, but the feel comes only with time. For

wondered why the same old guys seem to

that something great is fixing to happen? I get it

me, locating and patterning fish is where I get

always catch the bigger trout? Chalk this up to

all the time. Heck, I think I am going to get a bite

the greatest joy from what I do.

trout savvy and the ability to slow grind.

on just about every cast when things look right,

I made a statement 20 years ago on 34

tournament

Texas Saltwater Fishing

I have to really make myself slow down February 2008

You ever get the feeling while your fishing

even though I know this is impossible on the www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

35

Nice redfish like to hang out in trout water too. Notice the sandy green tint of the water. This is “trout green” to me.

greatest of days. That sense is your computer’s

mental pictures that related back to previous ones

built-in search engine telling you, “Hey your

when fish were caught in areas that looked just

eyes just detected something you wanted me to

like the one we’re in.

remember for you.” Once you have been given the cards it is up to you to play them properly.

I had the opportunity this week to fish with

With only a few solid trout bites, I decided to run to some different areas and search for water that looked and felt the same as the area we were

a club member of mine that wanted me to show

departing from. I promised we would return later

him what trout water looks like. He is going to fish

and see if the fish would eat for us. For hours we

with me once an month in 2008 and on each trip

combed the three different bay systems looking for

he wants to see and study the differences from

that right look and that feeling I get when I see it.

winter to spring to summer and fall. This should be

Nothing, looked or felt right. Some areas held bait

an excellent learning experience for him and for

but no structure. Some had water too clear and

me too. I take for granted what the water needs to

others had everything but no feeling of “rightness.”

look like in order to hold trout but many times I do

Around 2:00 pm we returned to our first

not make it known to my clients what the subtle

area. As we eased in a slick popped just off the

differences are. I will use our January 5th trip to

shoreline over some scattered mud and shell. The

help paint the picture.

water was a bit sandier due to some wind and the

In my area, during the winter months, I like to look for water with scattered bottom structure.

I like the bottom to be soft and soft is dark;

bait was still active but still scattered. A mere 50 yards into the wade the first solid trout was on the surface thrashing her head trying to free herself

dark also allows the water to hold more color than

from whatever it was that looked so good but

bottom made of hard white sand. Dark is good;

tasted so bad. Two hours of catching and releasing

I promise.

fish made a believer out of my fishing buddy.

The structure can be grass or scattered clumps

The point is that trout water, no matter how

of oyster shell. If the oyster shell has a little grass

good it looks, has to feel right to you. It is more of

growing in it or on it that is even better. I believe

a feel than a look. Trust me when I say, trout water

the trout see the bottom structure as a means of

is trout water, and it sure feels good.

breaking up the outline of their bodies, making them less noticeable, thus allowing them the element of surprise when it comes time to feed.

On this particular trip the reds had taken over a super trout hole in the morning, but gave it back to their speckled cousins later in the day. The key to the story is the look the water had. It was trout water and I told my client that it was and that later in the day I would be able to prove it.

“What looks different about this area versus the others we’ve looked at?” he wanted to know.

Well — It wasn’t any single attribute. To be honest it was a combination of the water’s color, the clarity, the texture of the bottom, and the way the baitfish acted. There was no huge concentration of bait, just scattered bait, like the bottom structure. The activity I saw brought up 36

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

37

As anglers we are forever thirsty for information. Regardless of our level of experience or skill, there are always unanswered questions, new challenges, and endless opportunities to grow. If you are reading this article, chances are you are doing so to try to learn something new. And each time I sit down at this desk to write, I reflect on what I have learned over the past day, or month, or year, and what I would like to learn and what I hope to see in the days ahead. I write because by doing so I might teach or influence others in a positive way.

One of the biggest challenges in fly fishing is to understand the learning curve. It seems that in fly fishing there are so many things to master before you can ever really catch anything. The tackle is new and unusual, the skills required to cast and land fish take practice and

38

Texas Saltwater Fishing

learning to deal with elements that seem to conspire against you takes time and patience.

Yes, it’s hard, but all the things learned along the angling journey… the successes and failures, the trial and error, the dispelled ideas and new beginnings, the new discoveries and doorways, are what hold value. Those are the things that stick with you and you will remember them when you look back.

Whether you are netting a slender minnow or sightcasting a tarpon, you will remember the moments of clarity when answers were revealed.

It’s not the most or the biggest or the best that brings the greatest pleasure, it’s what you discover and the challenges you overcome along the way.

I have always believed in the value of selfteaching.

There is something honest and true about what you learn through your own decisions and actions. A teacher can help you learn many things. He can show you the most efficient way to do something, like casting a fly rod. There is value in that. He can demonstrate the technique and evaluate your progress. He can give you books and drawings, tell you why things February 2008

work the way they do, and inspire you to take a chance. But if you are hoping a teacher will hand you a magic bullet or secret revelation you are looking in the wrong place.

A teacher cannot make the cast for you… or tie the fly for you… or land the fish for you.

He cannot teach you what it feels like to have a crawdad tickling your cupped hands, or a crab hanging from your finger. A teacher cannot explain the excitement of turning over a large flat rock to see what hides beneath, or the thrill of watching a fish lunge at your line. You discover these things, and that’s how it should be. A good teacher sparks your interest and makes you want to learn. It is up to you to question, and explore, and experiment, and find the answers.

I recently had the privilege of meeting and spending time with Dave Whitlock. Dave has dedicated his life to fly fishing and teaching, and has made countless contributions to conservation and restoration of the natural world. Nearly thirty years ago, Whitlock’s books and articles spurred me along in my early days of fly fishing and tying. In his photographs and writings I saw so many things that were new and interesting, and I burned to know more. I still do.

One of the stories I shared with Dave was, “the mystery of the Thunder Creek Streamer.”

Thunder Creek Streamers were slender tapered baitfish patterns, neatly tied with dusky backs, white bellies, and painted eyes. When I was a kid, I had seen them in magazines, but never seen one up close. For the life of me I could not figure out how they were made. No one I knew had ever seen one, nor could they tell me anything about them. From the photographs it appeared the bodies of these flies were made www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

from straw that had been painstakingly lashed to a hook. Taking pride in my resourcefulness, I clipped off some straw from one of Mom’s brooms and tied the straw to a hook. The fly didn’t look quite right, either in my hands or in the water.

A few months later I obtained several “real live” Thunder Creek Streamers.

Throwing caution to the wind, I took a pair of scissors to one of them, determined to find out how it was made. As the gutted fly unraveled I was amazed to find it was not made from broom straw, but rather from deer hair! I was thrilled to have solved the riddle.

In the years that followed I got good at tying Thunder Creek Streamers. I tied hundreds of them, and caught hundreds of fish with them. But I don’t recall a single one of those flies or fish in particular.

What I do remember with absolute clarity is watching that first streamer unravel in my hands. Why? It was a moment of discovery… a step forward. When I look back over all my years spent fishing, the memories that stick with me are not of high-dollar rods, polished reels, or perfectly tied flies. What I remember are the challenges I faced and the unexpected moments of discovery.

When the wind is blowing, or the tides are stalled, or casts aren’t rolling out quite right, remember that angling is not a means to an end. It’s not a destination.

It’s a cord that slowly pulls us deeper into a world of mystery. Angling requires us to be an active participant, not and observer.

It rewards us with moments of revelation and surprise that enrich our lives. The learning curve… what we are challenged to observe, question, discover, and unravel is what brings value to the journey and makes the trip worthwhile.

After you have accumulated a few saltwater fly fishing books, finding new titles that offer unique or original information can be tough. Many books simply repeat work that has been described elsewhere, with authors offering new versions of old information. This is not to say these books aren’t the result of hard work, or years of hands-on experience, or fantastic photography, but rather that they just don’t educate the reader. In truth, only a handful of thoughtfully written and professionally edited fly fishing books are required to adequately cover a large amount of information.

The search for something new and educational led me to A Fly-Fisher’s Guide to Saltwater Naturals and their Imitation, by George V. Roberts Jr. I have found no other book out there quite like it. Part textbook, and part fishing book, Saltwater Naturals covers both the physiology of fish, and the flies they eat.

Part one of Saltwater Naturals is dedicated to predator physiology, foraging strategies, prey recognition. In this section, Roberts also discusses evolutionary defensive behaviors of prey species and how anglers can use these behaviors to their advantage. A convenient summary of key points is provided at the end. Part two of the book is dedicated to forage species. Roberts describes the biology and life histories of many of the key North American saltwater prey species and he provides nicely illustrated color plates of each. Part three of Saltwater Naturals is a directory of fly patterns available to match numerous saltwater forage species. Because Saltwater Naturals was originally published in 1994, prior to the explosion of new tying materials and patterns for saltwater fly fishing, some of the flies shown may seem a bit dated. But, these patterns are no less effective than they were 15 years ago.

I enjoyed A Fly-Fisher’s Guide to Saltwater Naturals and their Imitation. It was both entertaining and educational. Robert’s didn’t attempt to describe how to tie a leader for the flats, or show readers how to double haul.

Nor did he preach what brand of reel is superior to all the others. But Roberts accomplished his goal. He taught me more about the saltwater prey species I try to match and the predators I try to trick. And that is what separates Saltwater Naturals from the rest of the crowd.

A Fly-Fisher’s Guide to Saltwater Naturals and their Imitation

By George V. Roberts Jr. 163 pp. Ragged Mountain Press ISBN: 0-07-053166-8

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

39

6

7 Redfish are suckers for crabs. In fact, their fondness for crabs compels hungry reds to bulldog through the shallows, often exposing themselves, in an effort to root these coin-sized crustaceans out of the mud. If you are targeting shallow water reds with fly tackle it certainly pays to have some crab patterns in your pocket. There are dozens of different crab patterns on the market these days and creative fly tyers have used all sorts of materials to make them. Some crab patterns have bodies formed from felt pads, others are crafted from trimmed deer hair, and some are even built from small plastic buttons or sculpted epoxy. So, which pattern is the right one? If you ask 10 anglers you’ll get 10 answers.

Perhaps one of the easiest crab patterns to tie, and certainly one of the most versatile, is the Bonefish Critter made popular by Florida fly angler Tim Borski. Borski is a talented angler, artist, and fly tyer who has designed many highly effective saltwater flies. The Bonefish Critter has a fuzzy wafer-like body made from strands of combed out and trimmed rug yarn or slender clumps of wool. The flat “yarn-type” body is a proven design, originally used by angler Del Brown to craft his legendary Merkin Crab permit fly.

The Bonefish Critter can be tied in a variety of base colors and the body parts can be shaded with permanent markers to create custom color combinations. The yarn/wool fibers have a nice fleshy look in water and they maintain their shape when wet. Another benefit of the fibers is that they cast well in the wind and make a soft landing rather than the fish-spooking “kerplunk” made by hardbodied crab flies. The Bonefish Critter rides with its hook oriented in the weedless upright position, and a mono weed guard further increases its resistance to snags. It can be tied with either light bead chain eyes or heavy lead dumbbell eyes, depending on the sink rate desired. The Bonefish Critter can be dragged across hard sand or skipped over sparse weedy bottoms. It is a good all-around pattern to keep in your box and it will catch those crab-eating reds.

8

4

9

5

10

Done!

1. Melt a short section of 40 lb mono

to form the eyes of the fly. 2. Tie the eyes over the top of the hook shank and bend them down, securing with additional thread wraps. 3. Tie in

40

a small set of bead chain or lead

shank, working toward eye of hook.

dumbell on top of shank behind eye.

7. Continue adding rug yarn strands

Hook: Mustad 34007 #2 to #6 (#4 shown)

Use criss-cross wraps to secure the

until you reach the base of the eyes.

Thread: Clear nylon mono or white monocord (clear nylon mono shown)

eyes. 4. Rotate the hook in the vise

Tie off thread. 8. Carefully trim the

Tail: Burned 40 lb. mono

and add a short strand of crystal

body into a tight circular shape. Pick

Weight: Stainless bead chain or small lead dumbbell

chenille at the base of eye stalks.

and comb out fibers with a bodkin

Egg Sac: Orange crystal chenille

Chenille should form a tight ball.

and Velcro strip. 9. Color top of yarn

Antennae/Legs: Webby brown saddle hackle

5. Tie in a brown webby saddle hacke

body with permanent marker (olive

Body: Aunt Lydia’s rug yarn or slender bundles of wool (orange rug

at the base of the crystal chenille.

shown here) and color the pupils black

yarn shown)

Make several wraps of hackle around

if desired. 10. Re-attach thread and

Weed guard: Lead barbell or bead chain

shank and tie it off. 6. Begin forming

tie mono weed guard on shank above

Weed guard: 25 lb. test mono

body by criss-cross tying strands

eyes. Tie off thread and coat thread

Shading: Permanent markers

of rug yarn to the belly of the hook

wraps on head with cement. Done!

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

41

Black/Chartreuse Head She Dog.

One of my team’s first redfish tournaments was the FLW Redfish Series out of Grand Isle, Louisiana. It was during day one of a two day event and we were trolling in a clear, shallow pond. There were a couple of narrow inlets with swift currents pulling balls of baitfish. I tied on a chrome/blue She Dog and the second cast irritated a good fish into striking. Playing the fish up to the boat, we saw it was a typical Cajun Pumpkin, short and fat, with a huge ball of grass and my She Dog stuck to its head.

Suddenly, just as quick as it had engulfed the “Dog”, the hook let go and off swam the bronze beauty. On day two, using spinnerbaits, we stuck and landed two good reds that weighed just over 15 lbs in the same spot. I learned the value of spinnerbaits, and also made a vow to remove topwaters as a bait to be used during tournaments.

This past year, we fished several tournaments in areas near and similar to our home waters of Matagorda. Often faced with off-color water, a rattle cork with scented plastic bait was my go-to setup. During prefishing, wanting to add a little variety, I went back

Sometimes just letting the bait sit for long periods can draw a strike. (Black/ chartreuse head She Dog.)

42

Texas Saltwater Fishing

to a bone/chrome She Dog. It did not take long for me to wonder why I ever quit throwing topwaters. Now, one will still lose a few more fish using a topwater, but usually tops will call up the bigger fish and during tournaments, and that is the name of the game.

There are numerous brands, shapes and sizes of topwater baits; since I cannot discuss them all, I will discuss a few of my favorites. For a traditional surface walker, more often than not, a Mirrolure (www.mirrolure.com) She Dog (83MR Series) will be tied on my string. With two rattles and thinner plastic than the original Top Dog, the She Dog just outright irritates fish into striking. For clear, calm water, a Top Dog Jr. (84MR Series) is a great choice. With one rattle and a little less buoyancy than a She Dog, they are not quite as obtrusive and a little easier to work. Both the Top Dog Jr. and She Dog have upsized and downsized brethren. The Top Pup and She Pup are the smaller lures and the Top Dog and He Dog are the big dogs of the line.

If a traditional surface walker is not drawing strikes, another lure to try would be a combination walker/popper such as the MirrOLure Popa Dog (87MR Series), which has a concave lip on the front of the lure. During the

retrieve, the lip creates more noise and water disturbance that a traditional topwater. Another good surface popper is made by Storm, and theirs is called the Saltwater Rattlin’ Chug Bug. It is slightly smaller than a Popa Dog in size.

Other types of topwaters I have found to be effective are the King Rat and Grass Frog by Strike King for heavy vegetation areas. Also, there are baits like the MirrOlure Prop Bait (5M Series) with twin counter rotating propellers.

These topwaters are used more in special situations but it comes in handy to have a couple around when needed.

Not assuming that everyone knows how to use topwaters, the most common presentation is the one we call, “walk-the-dog.” Walking the dog moves the lure’s head from side to side while it moves forward just slightly. This action mimics a wounded baitfish. One of the tricks I like to use when walking the dog is giving the lure a little slack, this helps create greater movement from left to right. The motion begins at the wrist (move the rod tip about 1 foot) with the rod parallel to the water’s surface and at right angle (90-degrees) to the standing line and the lure. It takes only a slight wrist action to get it moving and of course you need to

Chug Bug making popping action.

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

The Texas Saltwater Series, sponsored by Cabela’s, kicked off its 2008 season with the Texas Trout Series in Port Aransas.

A full field of fifty teams fished the event and all of the big trout pros were there to fish for the $10,000.00 first place prize.

Taking home the first place prize was the team of Lee Roy Navarro and Robert Oles with a three fish weight of 20.64 lbs. John Gill and David Rowsey took home second place with a respectable 18.66 lbs, and Nathan Taggart and Dirk Wristers captured third place with a kicker trout that measured over 31 inches and weighed almost 10 lbs.

The big trout were biting as it took an average of over 4.5 lbs per fish to get a check. All 105 trout that came to the scales were brought in alive, and only 11 of those fish were not healthy enough to be released.

This event was the first of twelve events in the 2008 Texas Saltwater Series line-up. The Texas Redfish Series will hit the water in April with 125 teams at Bluff’s Landing in Corpus Christi. In 2007, the Texas Redfish Series sold out their regular-season events, and things look even greater in 2008 with a guaranteed first place prize and 25 more spots for teams.

Sign-up began on January 14th and will continue until the events are full.

The Texas Kayak Series returns for 2008 with three stops. New for 2008 is the Angler of the Year award and the option of fishing as a team.

This series promises to be the next big thing in saltwater tournaments as kayak fishing continues to explode in popularity.

The Texas Kid’s Series which benefits Texas Youth Outdoor Adventures has moved to Port Lavaca and will be bigger and better. As in 2007, the Texas Saltwater Series will fund the trip for a group of kids from Texas children’s homes to the coast and match them up with some of the Redfish Pros for a day of fishing and fun. Everyone is invited to bring their kids out to participate in the event. All proceeds go towards funding fishing and hunting trips for less fortunate children.

For more information on any of the Texas Saltwater Series events and television show, go to www.saltwaterseries.com or tune in to Fox Sports Southwest Thursday mornings at 6:00 AM.

Texas Saltwater Fishing

43

Woodpecker Chug Bug create lots of commotion, more than a typical surface walker.

Trout taken on a Blue/Chrome She Dog.

l Learn a good loop knot. Loop knots let the lure swing freely to create the best action. l Try setting your drag a bit looser than normal.

Heavy redfish can easily dislodge and even straighten hooks on those first strong runs. A softer drag setting helps prevent this. l When a fish hits your plug, resist the temptation to set the hook immediately. Redfish are notorious for crashing a bait and then waiting a second before eating it. l If you get a blowup and the fish does not get hooked, let the lure sit for 10 to 15 seconds; you will often get a follow-up strike. If not, make a couple of twitches, let it sit and then get the bait moving again.

Try throwing to the same spot with your next cast. l Bait and switch is legal. During the Redfish Cup in Clearwater, Florida the only way we could catch a red was by getting them to blow up on a topwater and immediately following it with a Killer Flats Minnow. We never hooked one on the topwater, but they always took the Flats Minnow.

44

Texas Saltwater Fishing

simultaneously crank the reel handle. Each twitch of the rod will move the lure’s head in the other direction. Moving the rod too much or not giving the lure enough slack will cause the lure to lurch straight forward and not walk. It takes a little practice and experimenting to get the right rhythm. The surface popper type lures are a little easier to learn as they can be worked with a short jerking action that causes the concave lip at the front of the lure to pop and spit during their lurching movements.

When actually fishing topwaters, I will normally start out with a black/chartreuse or a bone She Dog. How the fish are reacting will dictate changes. If the water is clear and calm, a lack of bites would drive me to change to a Top Dog. If the Top Dog does not draw any attention I’d probably switch to a popper. If the fish are hitting the bait and not getting hooked, try downsizing to a Top Pup or She Pup. Again, experimenting with and colors may turn the tide from no hits to wearing the paint off your lures.

In addition to changing sizes and color, varying the bait’s retrieve can make a big difference. Start with a cadence of twitches and short pauses, if this seems not be what they want, you can try a steady “twitch only” retrieve.

February 2008

Vary the length of the pause; letting the lure sit for 20-30 seconds can sometimes draw strikes.

I’ve also seen times when burning the lure with almost no side to side action is the hot setup.

So for 2008, Mr. Topwater is back in my box.

For prefishing and certain water conditions, I will always have a topwater tied on. They are not only the most exciting way to catch fish, but cover a lot of water and are a great gauge of fish aggressiveness. I may lose a couple more fish than I like, but then again without a topwater tied on, the chance to lose fish may not have been there.

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

45

Fishing offshore of Texas during the winter can be very challenging, but the wahoo bite on the deep rocks this time of year can make it all worth while. Don’t get us wrong, you have to watch the weather. If you don’t — and get caught by a cold front, we promise you’ll be sorry, so don’t take chances. However, when you have a window of good weather for at least 24 hours, a quick run to catch wahoo is a lot of fun. The bite can be wide open this time of year and many of the fish are 50+ pounds.

Wahoo congregate on deep rocks just inside the 100 fathom curve and can be found along the edges of these rocks. Many of these rocks are surrounded by 400-500 feet of water, but rise dramatically up towards the surface. Most of the rocks we are familiar with are located starting just west the Flower Garden Banks and then eastward along the Continental shelf off Louisiana. This means a 100+ mile offshore run in the winter time, so a good weather window and a fast, seaworthy boat is desirable.

When planning a winter wahoo trip, it’s a good idea to head out as early as possible.

The best bite is early in the morning, just after daybreak, so you really need to leave the dock the night before. Be careful running too hard in the dark. The Gulf is full of debris at times and a hitting a log or getting a rope in the wheel can ruin the trip. Radar is also a good idea for nighttime running, especially in the winter when fog can be a problem. Check your Coast Guard emergency equipment onboard and make sure it is up to date. It’s not summer anymore, the water is cold and you are going to be a long way offshore. In addition to the required Coast Guard equipment, we recommend having a good emergency life raft and GPIRB onboard anytime you venture this far offshore. Also, 46

Texas Saltwater Fishing

don’t forget warm clothes, a change of clothes (in case you get wet), plenty of towels, food and fuel. Know your fuel consumption at cruising and trolling speed to avoid running low and hoping for a tow.

Wahoo like the edges of these rocks in anywhere from 150 – 220 ft. of water. Watch for deep bait as you troll, making note of which side of the rock you are on. The current on top may not be the same as below, so it is important to locate which side the bait is stacking up on and concentrate your efforts there. Avoid trolling over the top of shallower rocks or the barracudas can be a nuisance. Most fishermen also avoid using live bait on the rocks for similar reasons with barracudas, but mainly because the sharks can get pretty bad. Trolling speed can vary depending on what you are pulling.

With swimming baits your speed is limited by the lure, but jets and conventional lures can be pulled at higher speeds to entice a bite. We wouldn’t get too carried away with speed, anything over 9 knots is pretty fast and it sure burns a lot more fuel.

Many anglers like to add a heavy trolling weight to get these lures

deeper in the water. They can be bought at your local tackle shop and work great to get your lures down where wahoo like it.

The wahoo’s first run is legendary and they can really scream off a lot of line. Make sure your drags are smooth to prevent line breakage and use safety lines to keep your rods in the boat. One thing to remember, when you get a bite — don’t stop the boat — at least not right away. Put an angler on that rod and make a circle while fighting the first fish. This keeps your other baits working to get another bite. Wahoo tend to hang out in packs, so this technique for multiple strikes pays off a lot of the time. Chris Gonzales, owner of Islanders Custom Tackle in Galveston, uses a variation of this technique. Once the first wahoo is on, he likes to cast surface poppers or casting irons to draw that second or third strike. This technique takes a little more skill, but works great and the surface bite is very exciting to watch.

Strike Pro “Wahoo Hunter.”

Heavy Duty Ball Bearing swivels are a must.

uth .

Wahoo hunter in mo Wahoo on deck with February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

47

Let the little ones go!

Many winter wahoo are 50+ pounds.

Remember to keep your line tight. Wahoo like to shake their heads a lot and any slack in the line may allow the lure to come off.

There are a variety of lures used for wahoo.

Some of the most popular are the swimmers or “wigglers”, which swim below the surface.

Yozuri Bonitas, Strike Pro Wahoo Hunters and Braid Marauders are among our favorites along with the big Rapala Magnums. These lures work best using very strong single hooks with heavy duty ball bearing swivels. It is important to make sure any lures you buy have heavy duty components and a wire harness through the lure body connecting everything together.

Wahoo are ferocious eaters with razor sharp teeth that can tear up a lure like a chain saw.

Another big Texas wahoo!

Make sure you use stainless cable or wire for leader or you’ll be buying more lures back at the tackle shop. We suggest rigging with 400 lb. 49 strand cable and see how it works for you. Other popular lures include all types of jets, weighted conventional lures and the tried and true “everything eats me” blue and white Islander in front of a ballyhoo, yes, wahoo love them too. Ballyhoo trolled with skirts or just “naked” can work very well also. Ruben Villareal at Fishing Tackle Unlimited in Houston suggests staying with dark lure colors like Black/Purple, Black/Red and even black on black. Ruben also has a new wahoo teaser made with a chain of wahoo hunters varying in size. The last one is the biggest and has hooks in it. As far as rods are concerned a 6’ or shorter stand-up rod seems to be the most popular in the 30-80 lb. range. We suggest an all roller rod of this size with a 30 class reel and 50 lb. test monofilament line.

There’s one thing you should think about when you’re out there and the wahoo bite is wide open. Even though right now there is no limit on wahoo, try to conserve our resource by only keeping a reasonable amount of fish that you are going to eat. It’s tempting to load the boat with everything that bites, and sometimes that can be 20-30 fish. Have a great time, catch some nice fish, but leave some out there for the rest of us. It’s only a matter of time when the powers that be will start putting limits on wahoo, so let’s not help them rush to make that decision by stacking them on the dock like cord wood. Keep what you need, release the rest, have a great trip!

For more information about winter wahoo fishing, big game fishing in the Gulf or rigging you boat, come by Tops-N-Towers or see us at

48

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

the Houston Fishing Show Mar. 5-9, 2008. We’re always happy to answer your questions. You can also give us a call at Byrd & Cochrane, an authorized broker for Fox Yacht Sales. Come by our Fox Yacht Sales office at Tops-N-Towers and check out the line up of Cabo Yachts as well as Riviera Yachts, made in Australia. Fox also has an extensive inventory of brokerage boats and we will be glad to help you find a boat or sell yours. We specialize in sportfishing boats and motor yachts. Come by and get a great deal on your next boat. For more information call our office at 281-2910656 or check out our website at www.byrdcochrane.com or www.foxyachtsales.com

Born in Galveston, graduate of Texas A&M, Capt. John grew up fishing and diving the Gulf of Mexico. A professional captain for over 25 years, he runs a 46’ sportfishing boat out of Freeport, Texas. Capt.

John is also partners with Bobby in Byrd & Cochrane, specializing in yacht brokerage and sportfishing consulting. For more information go to www.byrd-cochrane.com or contact John at captjohn@ foxyachtsales.com.

A native Texan, Bobby Byrd began fishing at the young age of eight, when he was a deck hand on his Dad’s boat. He fished with his father in the Gulf of Mexico, Bahamas and Mexico for many years of his life. In 1995, Bobby combined his love of the water and boating into a business when he opened Tops-N-Towers, a custom aluminum fabrication business in Seabrook, Texas. For more information you can contact Bobby at www.topsntowers.com.

Contact Byrd & Cochrane 281-291-0656 Tops-N-Towers 281-474-4000 Website www.byrd-cochrane.com www.topsntowers.com www.foxyachtsales.com www.stingercustomlures.com www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

49

50

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

51

2007 was another busy year for CCA Texas

If you have ever caught a derelict crab trap with

lobbyists Joey Park and Billy Phoenix. Below is a brief summary of 2007

your propeller or simply gazed out across a shallow flat and noticed one

activities and items that are presently being addressed as we enter 2008

cluttering the view, then this February is your opportunity to do something

and towards the next Legislative year in 2009.

about it.

The 80th Texas Legislature drew to a close on May 28th after 140

During a special 10 day closed season from February 15 to 24,

days of contentious debate over a broad array of issues including efforts to

volunteers can participate in the Texas Abandoned Crab Trap Removal

unseat the Speaker of the House. It was a session which saw the Governors

Program. Beginning in 2002, the program has been a whopping success with

authority challenged on several issues and many of the states important

roughly 1,600 volunteers removing 22,746 abandoned crab traps to date.

issues were held until the very last moments for action. Once again for CCA

The major problem with abandoned crab traps is that many continue

and its membership, our most important issue this session was protecting our

to fish after they are lost; referred to as “ghost fishing”. Thirty six species

states instream flows for our rivers and bays.

of aquatic organisms have been documented in these lost traps, many

Senate Bill 3 and House Bill 3 which passed in the final hours of the

commercially or recreationally important. And the list even includes species

session, were the third step in a series of water conservation bills dating back

of special concern, like diamondback terrapins. During the event in 2006,

to 1997. SB 3 will for the first time require the state to set aside an amount of

the remains of a river otter were removed from a lost trap in Galveston Bay.

water to satisfy the inflow requirements for our state’s bay and estuaries. There

Any crab trap left in the bay between February 15 and the 24th will

will be studies to determine those amounts for each bay system. It will also allow

be considered abandoned and subject to removal by anyone. However,

for the conversion of senior water rights held for other purposes to be converted

any crabs found in the traps must be set free. TPWD staff will designate

to environmental flow permits and allow for that water to be delivered to the

sites in each of the eight major bay systems for trap collection. In areas

confluence of the river and associated bay system.

that are relatively free of abandoned traps will have stand alone sites with

We also were heavily involved in the fight for TPWD funding. Millions of

dumpsters marked for trap removal. While in other areas where more effort

dollars collected from the sale of hunting and fishing licenses were going

is need, sites will be manned until noon on Saturday, February 16th weather

unspent by the legislature. CCA has worked to have this money appropriated

permitting and have stand alone dumpsters for the duration of the closure.

back to the department for hunting and fishing related activities, hatcheries,

For those who choose to work on their own, TPWD requests information

game wardens and biologists.

about the number of traps that they collect.

In the coming months the legislature and the Sunset Commission will

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Coastal Program, Coastal

be looking at how TPWD does business. CCA will be working with these

Conservation Association Texas, Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries

groups as well as TPWD to insure that the programs that benefit our coastal

Program, and the Cecil M. Hopper Museum are providing significant support

resources receive the attention and money that they will need in order to

to the crab trap removal program. Additional help is coming from numerous

continue and expand. There are still many issues to address as our states

organizations, companies and others who are volunteering their services.

population grows and increasing pressures are put on fish stocks. We have

To participate, volunteers can pickup free tarps, gloves, trap hooks

already begun to meet with department leaders to set a course that will

and additional information at each of the sites or their local TPWD Coastal

provide these protections.

Fisheries Field Stations.

In 2008, CCA will continue to advocate and fight for what we feel is one of this states most precious resources, and the members of the Legislature are hearing this louder and more clearly than ever before 2009 will be another Legislative year and once again CCA Texas will be at the forefront representing the voices of concerned conservationists throughout the state.

To volunteer or for more information contact your local TPWD Coastal Fisheries Division office listed below or contact Art Morris TPWD Outreach Specialist at (361) 825-3356.

Sabine Lake – Local TPWD coordinator Jerry Mambretti (409) 983-1104 Galveston Bay – Local TPWD coordinator Bill Balboa (281) 534-0100 Matagorda Bay – Local TPWD coordinator Josh Harper (361) 972-6253.

San Antonio Bay – Local TPWD coordinator Norman Boyd (361) 983-4425 Aransas Bay – Local TPWD coordinator Dennis Pridgen (361) 729-2328 Corpus Christi Bay – Local TPWD coordinator Tom Wagner (361) 729-2328 Upper Laguna Madre – Local TPWD coordinator Todd Neahr (361) 825-3353 Lower Laguna Madre – Local TPWD coordinator Mark Lingo (956) 350-4490

52

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

53

54

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

55

Field Notes

Red snapper are a glamour fish. Look on

gray snapper have been an on again/off again

and weigh more than 25 pounds. The Texas

fishery in Texas. The species prefers warm

state record was caught in the Gulf of Mexico

the cover of any outdoor magazine and you

waters, and their presence or absence in Texas

in 1998 by Steve Pumilia and weighed 18.67

are liable to see them seem plastered there

bays depends on the frequency and duration of

pounds and was 28.5 inches long.

for all the world to see. Whole charter boat

freezing temperatures. With the absence of a

businesses have been founded on their pursuit

significant freeze along the lower Texas coast

science to catch these fish, it does take the

and on any given weekend hundreds if not

for several years, not only have their numbers

proper gear and a little advanced planning

thousands of anglers head offshore hoping to

apparently increased, but they are being caught

if you want to catch a mess for supper. As

catch their limit. While there is no doubt that

more frequently further up the Texas coast. For

far as gear goes, you need a good medium

red snapper deserve the attention they get, the

instance, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department’s

heavy rod with a reel spooled with an abrasion

rising cost of fuel and dwindling bag limits have

resource monitoring data for the fall of 2007

resistant line in the 15 to 20 pound class.

a small but growing number of anglers targeting

showed good numbers of gray snapper as far

Even a small gray snapper can put up a good

a different kind of snapper.

North as Corpus Christi Bay.

fight, and with the barnacle encrusted rocks

The gray snapper, Lutjanus griseus, is a

The preferred habitat for gray snapper is

While it doesn’t take a degree in rocket

and pilings they like to hang around you need

rather plain looking member of what is usually

around complex hard structure adjacent to

a little extra insurance against being broke

a very brightly colored family of fish. Other

comparatively deep water. They can be found

off. The terminal gear you use will depend on

common names for this fish are mangrove

in a broad range of depths from less than 3 feet

water clarity, depth, and how fast the water

snapper, mango snapper, and black snapper.

to over 300 feet with the bigger fish being found

is moving. I personally use a sliding sinker

They are easily distinguished from the other

in deeper waters. They feed mainly at night on

setup with a three foot length of 15 pound

small inshore snappers by the lack of a black

small fish, shrimp, and crabs, but will also bite

fluorocarbon leader and 1/0 to 2/0 circle hook.

spot on their side and the dark gray-green to

during the day. Gray snapper may live as long

Gray snapper are notorious bait stealers so

brown coloration. Until the last ten years or so,

as 21 years and can grow to over 30 inches

use as little weight as you can get by with.

Remember that when you are using circle hooks, you don’t set the hook like you do with

Typical gray snapper.

Even small gray snapper bite voraciously.

J hooks; instead you just reel in your line and the hook sets it self. By the way, if you haven’t heard yet, circle hooks are now required when fishing for red snapper in Texas.

Gray snapper will hit a variety of bait types including live and dead shrimp, finger mullet, and crabs. However, it is awfully hard to beat live shrimp hooked just behind the rostrum (the long pointy thing on the shrimp’s head) for most fishing situations. The exception would be when you are targeting large gray snapper.

They seem to have a preference for mullet up to ten inches in length. You will also need to up-size your fishing gear for this situation and

56

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

57

Gray snapper anglers fishing typical inshore habitat.

much bait as you

platforms, so give them a wide berth. Gray

think you will need.

snapper can also be caught in good numbers

Most fishing trips

on Mustang Island along the Packery Channel’s

for this species are

north jetty, and just about anywhere else along

ended when the bait

the southern Texas Coast with good structure

bucket goes empty.

and adequate water depth.

In the lower

58

located it is often easy to catch them in good

gray snapper can

numbers, and I have witnessed coolers filled

be found in good

with them when an angler returns to a boat

numbers along the

access site after a days fishing. Gray snapper

Brownsville Ship

are a valuable resource and their prime flesh

Channel from the

should be enjoyed by all. But as more anglers

jetties all the way

target this species, we should all show some

up to the Port of

voluntary restraint in their harvest. Please take

Brownsville and

only what you plan to eat and leave some for

also around the old

the next angler fortunate enough to catch this

crank the drag down all the way to get them

causeway. Remember that if you are fishing in

away from the pilings and rocks quickly. The

the Port, you cannot tie-up to any structure or

one rule to live by when gray snapper fishing

anchor your boat. They are very serious about

is to take plenty of extra tackle and twice as

security in and around the various ships and

Texas Saltwater Fishing

Once a school of gray snapper have been

Laguna Madre,

February 2008

fine table fare.

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

59

So, it is officially winter. It is cold, wet and windy outside my house this morning. This is not generally thought of as the greatest time of the year for kayaking. Most of the kayakers I know have hung up their paddles and stowed their kayaks to wait out the arrival of warmer weather. But it doesn’t have to be that way. I’ve had some of my best trips in the dead of winter. And also some very rewarding days where I was completely skunked. As with most fishing, it is all about the attitude you take to the water and sometimes you need to look a little harder for the silver lining.

I’m sure that between the covers of this month’s magazine you’ll read all about the techniques these guys and gals use to catch those big fat February trout. McBride, Watkins,

time of year. It is protected from high winds and

flats, sand flats, grass flats; it really doesn’t

Cochran and company will talk about grinding

as a bonus it offers an excellent chance to see

matter as long as it’s shallow and I get to chase

out the tough bite through a muddy wade looking

some wildlife along the way. I can’t think of a

redfish. Generally speaking that sort of fishing

for that one good bite. And I get that. I do it too,

single trip to this haven within the city when I

just doesn’t happen much this time of year along

but not on every trip. Kayaks can be the perfect

didn’t see at least a few deer on the banks and

the upper coast. Yes, there are occasions where

tool for implementing the strategies used for

a couple of osprey patrolling the sky looking for

tide and weather combine to make it work, but

chasing trophy trout without the grueling wade.

a mullet meal. I’ve also heard rumors that a bald

more often than not the water is simply too cold

eagle has taken up winter residency there, but I

for a serious shallow water bite to get going.

But some days I’m just tired of being cooped up in the house and I want to go breathe some

haven’t had the good fortune to run across it yet.

fresh air. My mind isn’t always up for the full-on

Wherever you live chances are good that you’ve

lack of water. Winter is notorious for blowing all

concentration it takes to chase a trophy. Those

got nearby access to a similar situation. Take a

the water out of my preferred stomping grounds.

are the days I might grab one of my touring

sunny afternoon and try it out sometime. I know

So what’s a hardcore flats junkie to do? Make

kayaks and simply go for a long paddle. It’s good

this might sound like sacrilege, but it’s doesn’t

the most of the hand you’re dealt. How often

to get out and stretch those paddling muscles

always have to be about fishing.

have you watched a group of tailing reds simply

from time to time. It is also an excellent time

Then there are other days I get in the mood

disappear as you get within casting range? It

to work on your paddling stroke and get some

to store up some knowledge for future trips.

happens all the time. And it happens in places

much needed exercise. On days like this I tend

Anyone who has read my ramblings on these

where you think that there’s no way they could

to head for someplace without much boat traffic

pages knows that I prefer to fish the flats. Mud

exit the area without at least giving you a hint as

where I can get away from everything and

to where they went. You know

simply enjoy the day. Armand Bayou is perfect

60

An even more common scenario is a total

what I’m talking about; I can

for this kind of trip. You can pretty much count

almost see some of you guys

on having the entire waterway to yourself this

nodding in agreement.

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

61

drop off at some point along the edge. Even

situations can have on the

the more expansive flats along the middle and

structure of the bottom, you

lower coast will have a navigable gut running

can take that knowledge

through them that serves to drain or fill them

with you to unfamiliar

on the changing tides. The bottom line is that

waters and apply it to the clues you have above

you can generally get close enough to survey

the water line.

the situation. A good pair of binoculars can be a real asset, as can a digital camera. Not that

puzzle that can be better utilized if you get the

my memory is getting rough around the edges

chance to see exactly how they are laid out.

or anything, but a good low water photo of my

That might sound funny to you guys fishing the

My good buddy Dean calls them subterranean

favorite flats is money in the bank after two or

clear waters down south, but along the upper

redfish. Well the truth of the matter is flats

three flips of the calendar page.

coast it can be difficult to get a good look at

aren’t really all that flat. There are always slight

So now that I’ve talked you into paddling

them through our greenish, okay, sometimes

depressions and barely perceptible drains

to a place that you can’t fish on a cold day

brownish water. Any cut, low spot or irregularity

crisscrossing every kind of flat or back lake

following a norther, what are you looking for?

can be the key to successfully mining fish off

along the coast. Tidal movement, wind currents,

Anything that is different. That sounds too

of an oyster bar. Take a picture of the reef and

and small pieces of hard structure will all cause

simple, but it really is just that. You are looking

commit it to memory so that the next time you

slight contour changes and redfish that live in

for and making note of any slight depressions or

fish it you’ll know where the high percentage

these places know and use every one of them.

pieces of structure that are not normally visible.

spots are and you aren’t just blindly casting and

You probably already know many of the

Take a good look at the north shoreline of your

hoping it works out.

prominent guts and drains of your favorite flat,

favorite marsh pond. It will often have a slight

Last but not least, probably one of the

but it is sometimes difficult or even impossible to

gut running along the bank where the waves

most useful things you’ll discover during this

detect the more subtle differences. Many of the

from the south wind have carved away the

expedition is the location of the drains. With the

guys I fish with will simply turn their backs on

softer mud. Redfish will cruise in that gut looking

water gone, it becomes very easy to spot these

these shallow areas when the water isn’t there.

for baitfish or shrimp to get pushed against

often winding depressions that fan out onto the

I guess it makes sense if you want to catch

the bank during a blow. Some flats will have a

flats. Smaller areas will often have only one

fish right now because obviously there aren’t

barely perceptible change in depth from one

main drain that may branch a couple of times.

going to be any fish where there isn’t any water.

side to the other or maybe a large saucer-like

And as you would suspect, the larger the pond

However, the lowest tides of winter are your

depression out away from the bank. Take note

or flat, the more numerous and pronounced the

golden opportunity to take a crash course in

and remember that the next time you are there

drainage system. These play an important part

the geography of the bay floor. It is not unusual

on a slightly lower than normal tide. One of my

in the everyday life of the gamefish you are after

for the water levels behind a strong front to

favorite things to find is a deeper gut around the

and it pays to know where they are located.

drop two or more feet, thus draining entire flats

point of an island. When the wind blows onto

It is where the predators wait to ambush bait

and exposing things you might never notice

a long stretch of land or shallow reef the water

as it gets sucked out during the falling tide. In

otherwise. If you will take the time to go to these

piles up and funnels around the point gouging

addition, they are the fish highways of the flats.

areas and study them it will make you a better

out a channel. Depending on the situation,

It is how they traverse the area on the changing

flats fisherman when the water and redfish

the gut around the end of the point can be six

tides. And rather than tunneling subterranean

return to their haunts in the spring.

inches or several feet deep. Fish will stack up

style, it is where those sneaky tailing reds

in these guts waiting for the buffet to come

disappear when they sense your presence.

So if there isn’t any water, how are you going

62

Reefs are another important piece of the

to get there to study them? Well, most of the

to them when the wind currents are moving.

marsh ponds and flats I fish throughout the year

I’ve seen the same thing with something as

Doritos and get out there to boost your

are bordered by some manner of deep water

simple as an old half-buried tire or any other

knowledge of the bottom. Come springtime

access. That is what usually makes an area

misguided piece of junk that finds its way to the

you’ll be glad you did.

productive to begin with. In the marshes it is

bay floor. Studying your chosen areas can also

often a highway of interconnected bayous. On

have an added benefit. Once you get a better

shoreline flats there is almost always a deeper

understanding of the cause and effect different

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

So turn off the television, put down the

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

63

Every year it is the same old story, February rolls around and I am about one step away from the nuthouse (most think I am only about three steps out during all other months). The point is; I get a very bad case of cabin fever because the days

A good cure for wintertime depression.

are short, it is usually cold, and the few days that I can get out to fish are never enough.

For me, getting out as much as possible is the closest thing to a cure for this wintertime depression. However, as I mentioned, the days

Low tide reveals scattered shell and other structure to tuck into your memory bank.

are few and far between so I settle on making the most of each day that I do get out.

One of the best ways to take advantage of

A good example is one angler I know

the few and far between days is to use these

who is good and

days to explore and learn. In fact, the winter

catches a lot of fish,

months are some of the best times to explore.

in fact his success

The reason for this is because at no time of

rate is probably well

the year are the tides lower — especially those

over fifty percent,

following a strong north wind.

but does so not

I have said many times that anglers suffer

by accessing and

from tunnel vision when it comes to fishing.

utilizing a vast

Over the years I have had the privilege of

bank of knowledge,

meeting and getting to know quite a few good

but by burning a

anglers however, very few have achieved or will

ridiculous amount

ever rise to the level I consider to be great. This

of gas and fishing

is because they are obsessed with only catching

from before the sun comes up until after

fish and not with learning why they caught them.

sundown. In fact he almost always starts fishing

to do some fishing and when discussing where

in the same couple of spots and finishes his

we should go, we both decided that we would

day in the same couple of spots. This routine

try some place that neither of us had ever

is exactly why this fisherman will never get

fished. So, the next morning when I woke up

any better.

and was awaiting the arrival of my friend, I

Rather than running around from spot to spot to fill a box, anglers should take the time to understand why they did or did not catch fish

64

Texas Saltwater Fishing

busted out my trusty stash of charts and started looking for something interesting.

On the way down to the ramp we narrowed

at a given location. By doing this, anglers can

the spots down to two based on wind direction,

improve their success rate. And, as I mentioned

proximity to deep water and bottom make-up.

before, there is no better time to learn a spot

We left the rest up to fate, flipping a coin to

than when low tides expose the hidden features

decide which direction we should go once we

of the bay.

left the ramp. Twenty minutes later we were

Recently, I had the opportunity to take

idling the boat up to a shoreline in an area that

advantage of the low water conditions created

I had only fished once before and that was over

by a strong passing front. A buddy and I saw a

half my lifetime ago. But this time things were

small window of opportunity

different. I was not approaching this spot with a

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

65

Subtle bottom changes such as this trough will become fish paths during higher tides.

bucket full of mullet hoping to catch a couple

oyster reefs that did show up on any charts of

of redfish like I did all those years ago. This

the area.

time I was there with years of experience and a thirst for knowledge.

We immediately started studying the

Now with all of the above being said, I will leave you with one final thought. Even though this was a new spot and we chose it because

bottom and reef structure of the area in hopes

we wanted to learn something new, we chose

of figuring out where the redfish might be

the spots that were eventually narrowed

hanging out. The water was of course very

down by a coin toss based on the many trips

clear because, as you probably know, the

before. In short, we did not go into the area

algal blooms that cloud the warmer waters

completely blind. We took the knowledge

of summer are dormant allowing winter waters

learned exploring other areas and applied it

to clear quickly, even after a hard blow. The

to choosing a likely spot. Many people think

clear water allowed us to see specific areas

the best way to learn a new area is to jump up

of scattered shell as well as the numerous

on the console and run through it and I can

shell piles.

assure you that not only is this not true, it is a

The fish, we found, were holding very close to the individual piles of oyster. Upon

completely unacceptable method.

We took the time to slowly work an area

closer inspection we also found that crawling

and are now better and more knowledgeable

around each shell pile would be several crabs

anglers because of it. In fact, I cannot wait

which incidentally, explained why every now

for the next front because I want to go hit the

and again we would see the occasional tail

other spot that we considered that day. I am

waive slowly above the surface. Now, for the

ready to learn something new.

sake of not making this too long, I will go on to say we whacked the fish but that was not the best part of the day.

Not only had we caught fish, but we had learned a new area under the best of conditions. The low water conditions along with the gin-clear waters of winter allowed us to identify what would normally be less than obvious channels and changes in water depth. It also allowed us to identify exactly where and what the fish were feeding on.

Another benefit of the trip was that we were able to find several paths through the fields of 66

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

67

All in one day — the first big trout.

This winter weather has me excited about the outdoors. The trophy

water. By this time I am catching

trout season is in, and deer hunting is

who is going to dip their arm in the

on my mind. I really look forward to this

water and possibly draw cold water

time of year because your chances of

into their waders. As I’m reeling in

catching a trophy trout increase as the

fish, I can’t help but to laugh about

water temperatures begin to fall. This past

the whole situation. Hearing their

Christmas vacation was no exception,

convincing stories as to whom and

I got to hunt and fish a lot. But there is

why they should fetch the pliers was

one fishing trip that truly stands out in

funny. To make the story short, the

my mind, the trip with my dad and uncle.

pliers were left behind. About an

As a matter of fact, I could start a series

hour and a half into our fishing the

of these fishing trips and call them “The

expected cold front arrived three

Adventures of the Three Stooges – Larry,

hours early. Noticing that the front

Curly, and Moe.” This past summer I wrote

was upon us, my Uncle Freddy was

about the surf fishing adventure with

unanimously elected to fetch the

my dad and Uncle Freddy. That trip was

boat, especially since his reel wasn’t

a blast with nonstop laughing, and this

working properly. As he picked me up

winter fishing trip turned out just the same.

and we idled up towards my dad, he

First of all, in the summer story, you

narrowly ran over him for the first of

will remember that my uncle overslept, and that’s not a good thing when fishing

dad and uncle are arguing about

Being that the north wind had arrived but wasn’t all that bad, we

my dad took some precautions so that my

decided to continue fishing, and I am

uncle would not be late. It’s not very often

sure glad we stayed because of what

that we get to fish with Uncle Freddy, but

was soon to come. We continued

when we do, something funny is bound to

throwing topwaters and walked into

happen. As we prepared and took a look

an awesome big trout bite as the front

at the weather the night before, everything

moved through. I was the first to land

looked good. There was a cold front that

a hefty twenty-seven plus inch trout,

was expected to arrive sometime by mid-

and then my uncle landed a respectable

day. So getting in a morning wade and

twenty-four inch trout, and then it was

chasing big trout looked very promising.

my dad’s turn with a nice twenty-seven.

Because of the expected front, we packed

My dad hooked on to another big one that

light on the food knowing that our trip

fought for a few minutes and then busted

would end before noon; at least that was

him off. Not long after that I managed to

the plan.

bring a trout within my grasp that would

And the third — what a day.

have made my first one look small, but

good fish had been holding, and we were

she found a way to jump off. We were in

not disappointed as the fish cooperated

the middle of the best big trout bite I had

not long into our wade. The first of many

ever experienced. As my dad was tying

funny incidents occurred when my dad

a new leader and he asked me if I could

accidentally dropped his pliers into the

lend him a topwater that I had in my box.

Texas Saltwater Fishing

Second big trout.

two times that day.

with my dad. Anyway, this time around

We arrived at the spot where some

68

fish almost every other cast, but my

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

69

Author and Freddy pose for the camera.

This trout could not resist a noisy She-Dog.

He instructed me to tie it on and cast it at Uncle

Freddy waded the shallow water, he hooked

sure what do first with all the yelling going on.

Fred, who would put it on his line and then

on to a good fish, and while he was fighting it,

At this point my dad jumps into the water, and

relay it to my dad. I obeyed my instructions and

something hit him in the shin area. He let out

simultaneously my uncle throws the anchor

tossed the topwater in the direction of my uncle.

a yell of fear and his face turned pale, but he

overboard. The anchor rope catches my dad’s

He panicked thinking I was going to hook him.

did land the fish. What happened next I don’t

ankle, causing him to plunge into the water with

When that lure came hurtling towards him, he

understand, yet I don’t blame him. Here we were

waders and all. My dad comes up from under

looked like a catfish out of water. He wallowed

in the middle of an awesome trout bite, and my

the water and starts yelling, “You got me, you

around in the mud in every direction almost

uncle decides he is going back to the boat.

got me.”

taking water in his waders. My dad and I could not stop laughing at his actions.

My uncle was traumatized, but this would

After walking back to the boat, my uncle decides to idle near my dad, and for the second

is, yells out, “What? What? How did I get you?

time he almost runs him over. I could see them

How did I get you?”

not be the end. Not five minutes later after that

chatting, but they were too far from me to hear

incident I observed three porpoises swimming

what they were saying. As I continued to walk

thought of the big trout getting away was of

near the ICW. I mentioned what I had seen, and

and cast, out of nowhere a big splash occurred

no concern to me. After that entire circus I did

again my uncle went into a panic mode. He even

near my topwater, and my line began to tighten

manage to land my fourth big trout of the day.

scooted into shallower water and commented,

up. I set the hook on something heavy and

Afterwards, we could not stop laughing about

“With my luck they are sharks, and the one to

being that minutes earlier I had just lost what

the incident, including my dad, wet and all.

get bitten will be me.” By now my stomach was

could have been my personal best trout. I got

hurting from so much laughter. While my Uncle

nervous. I waved at them both to come help

last words, “Hey, when the cold front arrives,

me, and they quickly responded by driving the

can we leave?” Another round of laughter burst

boat near me. Now what happened next is why

out, but this time it was at my father’s expense.

I decided to share this experience with you. As

Maybe that’s why on the way back to the dock

they got closer I yelled, “get the net.”

he tried very hard to get us wet with the water

At the same time my dad is yelling at my

As things quieted down, my uncle had the

that was splashing over the bow. We did end the day by catching and releasing twenty-five

splashing every which way. The shouts kept

trout, six of which were between five and eight

getting louder and louder, “Get the net.” —

and a half pounds. Not a bad day despite all

“Throw the anchor.”

the mishaps. I can hardly wait for our next

look that my uncle had on his face; he wasn’t Texas Saltwater Fishing

By this time I am dying of laughter, and the

uncle, “throw the anchor.” The big trout is

You should have seen the dumbfounded

70

My uncle being the nervous wreck that he

February 2008

gathering, but next time I am bringing the video camera. www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

71

The spirituality of several Native American cultures centered around “the spiral of life.” I guess you could

Actions always speak louder than words.

call it the original version of “what goes around comes around.”

Cleanup on Saturday March 08, 2008. Last year’s event was a record-breaker

The spiral of life was depicted as a single line starting small at the center and then growing in evenly-spaced fashion which never touched itself and

Everyone is invited to participate in the Thirteenth Big Shell Beach with 440 hardworking volunteers picking up 95,560 pounds of trash and restoring 13 miles of Nation Seashore beach to it’s natural beauty.

swirled around to form a series of unending circles. They believed this

Since the beginning of this event 2,513 volunteers have removed 914,920

perfectly spaced design depicted life on Earth when homo sapiens first

pounds of trash from the Big Shell Beach in all types of weather and beach

arrived; all natural things in harmony with each other.

driving conditions. This is an awesome record, no doubt, but what is even

They believed that each time mankind did something evil to Mother

more special to me is that this year we’ve got a shot at the MILLION POUND

Earth it had the same effect as dropping a stone into calm water; and the

MARK! If we can duplicate last year’s feat, our historic total pounds of trash

ripples would cause the smooth lines of the spiral to become distorted. If

removed from the Big Shell will exceed 1,000,000 and that’s mind-boggling!

enough harmful things were done to Mother Earth, the spiral would become

This could turn out to be a landmark event and it’ll probably make history.

indiscernible, and the planet would no longer be suitable habitat for mankind.

Everyone who ever volunteered will be able to look back for the rest of their

With it being obvious that some people would do bad things to Mother

life and know they were there and helped make it happen.

Earth, the only logical cure was for others to do good things. Each time someone did something good it would work towards restoring one of these lines. And so it would become a continuous battle between good and evil

13th Annual Big Shell Beach Cleanup

deeds with the stakes being the continuation of our species on this planet.

Date and time: Saturday March 08, 2008 - Arrive before 7:00 AM!

What fascinates me is that I believed in this concept for at least 30 years

Meeting place: Malaquite Pavilion - Padre Island National Seashore

before I became aware that it had been widely recognized for thousands of

l

Event will conclude at 2:00 PM

years. I guess it’s that breed Indian in my soul, the guiding force in my life for

l

Volunteers workers are needed, without or without 4WD transportation, we’ll

these many years.

get you a ride. l

4WD Trucks needed, bring a sturdy 2-wheeled trailer if you can.

me. Big Shell Cleanup is not about playing the big shot or having everyone

l

Drinking water and light snacks will be available, pack a lunch if you like.

think I’m a great guy. Big Shell is about doing a good thing for Mother

l

Long pants, long-sleeved shirts, sturdy footwear, gloves and

Earth, and in particular, for the wondrous place in which I have worked

hats recommended.

and worshipped for so many years… long before I ever considered being

l

a professional guide there.

conclusion of the cleanup.

Above all else, this is what the Big Shell Beach Cleanup means to

There is always much talk given to taking a kid fishing. I think it is equally important to take a kid to events such as the cleanup. I think it is important to instill in them an appreciation for our precious natural resources and to

l

T-Shirts and refreshments will be available at Malaquite Pavilion at the Don’t miss the chance to help restore the Spiral of Life and make history as

we pass the 1,000,000 pounds of trash off Big Shell Beach milestone.

Capt. Billy L. Sandifer

lead them to become good stewards so that future generations may continue to enjoy them. What better way to lead than by suiting up and showing up?

72

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

AM EX

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

73

New Tackle & Gear All Star Rods The new ASR Series™ from All Star will give anglers even more technique specific choices for 2008 in the extensive All Star line. Designed with high-grade materials and components, this series is sure to generate a following with the hardcore angler. The ASR Series™ comes in 7 casting and 3 spinning models with the technique it was designed for printed on the rod.

ASR Series™

www.allstarrods.com

Features and specifications of ASR Series™ include: IM-10 multimodulus graphite blanks Fuji® Alconite guides Premium cork grips Split grip technology

•

• • •

Fuji® graphite reel seat on spinning models with Total Touch™ fore grip Total Touch™ reel seat on casting models Stainless steel double foot quick release hook keeper

• • •

Century Boats

www.centuryboats.com

Century Boat Company’s

well as space for an optional

popular 2202 Inshore is receiving a facelift.

Reaching out to professional fishing guides, the 2202 Inshore can be ordered with a tower and secondary helm station. A redesigned console will accept flush mounted electronics, as

bait well. Leaning post with four gold anodized rod holders is now standard. The 2202 Inshore also features an easily accessible battery switch panel in addition to a sealed trolling motor battery disconnect switch with lifetime warranty.

Hook & Tackle Outfitters Hook & Tackle Outfitters introduces the latest innovations in sun protective gear. The Solar Dry and Sun Blocker series offers you one of the finest cottonrich feel you will ever experience. The fabrication features Quick-Dry Moisture Management, Anti-Bacterial with a UV-40 sun protection.

L&S Bait Company

www.hookandtackle.com

Texas Saltwater Fishing

850-769-0311 Other improvements include a new rod box design that will hold spinning and fly tackle. Bob’s Jackplate system is now standard for a high performance set up. A roomy cockpit and extended generous front casting platform provide maximum fish-fighting room.

305-754-3255

The solid Tee features a vented back for maximum comfort. Other styles are available with front, back and arm prints.

Available in many colors to choose from. Sizes include M-XXL. Retail cost is $35.00.

MirrOmullet™ Surface Walker MirrOmullet™ closely resembles a juvenile finger mullet, a favorite forage for all coastal predators. This surface walker features a wounded mullet action and subtle presentation which is ideal for fishing the calm shallows. MirrOmullet™ features a luminescent insert for increased flash, 3-D eyes and natural

74

800-347-3759

February 2008

www.mirrolure.com

727-584-7691

mullet profile. Catch the trophy of your life, tie on a MirrOmullet™!

Model: 16MR, Length 3”, Weight 3/8 oz.

Available Colors: 11, 18, 21, 26, 49, 808, BNSBO, CFPR, CH, CHBL, EB, EC, S Available at your favorite tackle supplier.

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

Mann’s Bait Company The new Tidewater Waker is Mann’s shallowest running crankbait to date.

Even the very popular Tidewater Mid 1Minus, which runs a maximum of 12” deep, seems like a “deep diver” compared to the new Waker.

The Tidewater Waker is designed to run only 1-3” beneath the surface no matter

Tidewater Waker

www.mannsbait.com

how fast it’s reeled. As the name implies, it creates a large wake and bulge, a look that heavily pressured fish seldom see. It’s not uncommon to see fish make their own wake as they charge the Waker.

The Waker’s perfect size of 3 inch length and 3/8 oz. weight enables anglers to make very long casts and cover lots of water. It is

Shakespeare Fishing Disney Kits & Tackle Boxes In 2008 Shakespeare will get even more kids to go fishing with the licensing of three new Disney movie characters. Disney’s “Princess”, “Pirates of the Caribbean”, and Pixar’s “Cars” were huge hits and Shakespeare wasted no time bringing the characters and the children who idolized them to the lake.

Sufix Siege Greensboro, NC - Sufix Siege™, regarded by millions of anglers as the “toughest, best casting line” is now available in a deadly Camo color pattern.

Sufix, now the #2 line company in North America,* has an exclusive Hi-Tech Multi-Color Process™ that allows Sufix engineers to produce

www.sufix.com

a precise blend of subtle color changes at select intervals. That enables Siege Camo to melt away under the surface.

Siege Camo boasts the patented XV 2 Technology for up to 15 times abrasion resistance of ordinary monofilament. Sufix Nano Tech Process® and advanced G2 Precision

The new SuperCaster 180XL from U.S. Reel weighs just 6.8 ounces but has a spool diameter of a typical 2500 or 3000 size reel. It can hold 171 yards of 8-lb. test mono or 213 yards of 10-lb. test braid (144

Just Keep Five

equipped with 4X strong saltwater hooks and is available in 8 colors. Suggested retail price is $4.99.

www.shakespeare-fishing.com 800-347-3759

Backpacks, tackle boxes, rods, reels, and accessory in a total of 10 new kits will ensure that when children go look for Disney’s “Princess”, “Pirates of the Caribbean”, and Pixar’s “Cars”, they’ll also be going fishing with Shakespeare.

Models, features, and specifications available in the 2008 Shakespeare Fishing Tackle catalog or on www.

Shakespeare-fishing.com.

1-800-554-1423 Winding® no memory line lay procedure gives Siege maximum casting capabilities no other mono can match.

Siege Camo is available from 4 – 30 lb. test on 330 yd. spools (25 lb. and 30 lb. hold 250 yds.), and 3000 yd. spools.

US Reel

www.TSFMAG.com

800-841-8435

February 2008

www.usreel.com

314-962-9500

yards of 20-lb. test braid), and capacities can be adjusted via the supplied spool arbors (a spare spool is included). The exclusive wide spool design dramatically increases casting distance and reduces line

twist and memory. You can set your drag higher because the leverage of the wide spool makes the patent-pending SDS Sealed Drag System start fast and stay steady. Suggested retail price is $99.99

Texas Saltwater Fishing

75

SABINE

Dickie Colburn

Dickie Colburn is a full time guide out of Orange, Texas. Dickie has 35 years experience guiding on Sabine and Calcasieu Lakes.

Contact Colburn’s Sabine Connection Telephone 409-883-0723 Website www.sabineconnection.com

If the water in Sabine Lake and the surrounding marshes appeared to have a reddish tint over the past couple of months, there was an explanation for the phenomenon.

We have been absolutely covered up with redfish!

Not one to doubt the predictions of the biologists, I remained a little concerned in the early fall when we continued to catch huge numbers of fourteen to seventeen-inch Andrew, Connor, and Jordan took a closer look before releasing this red.

redfish. As 2006 drew to a close, I was assured that we would be covered up with slot reds the following year due to their projected annual growth rate and an abundance of forage fish.

Outside of a weekly court bouillon or a little redfish on the half shell, the best part of the incredibly easy bite has been the opportunity to share it with youngsters. There is very little waiting involved between strikes and there is a lot of kid in all of us when line starts peeling off the reel!

I admittedly encouraged more clients to bring along the kids when I was not fishing with my own eight-year old grandson and his pals this past year and it has been a renewing experience watching them not only catch their first fish, but improve their skills as well. They are dependent upon a mentor providing the opportunity for them to get out on the water and I urge you to make that happen on a more frequent basis this year!

I believe the gulls worked better the past two months than they did in the fall. We caught a lot of quality trout and redfish under them on days better suited for duck hunting. At this point, I would not bet my favorite CastAway rod that they are not still working in February.

We enjoyed a brief run on big trout last month that has us all excited about the potential for the upcoming months. We had them zeroed in when the surface temperature dipped into the low fifties and stayed there a few Redfish aren’t providing the only excitement on Sabine right now

days, but it warmed up and they became harder to pattern.

I caught and released maybe the largest trout I have ever taken off

It appeared that we had turned the corner in late August, but September and October saw a repeat of the invasion of the smaller fish.

mark on a Boga, and several clients caught personal bests in excess of

Then, just as predicted, the first cold front blew open the gate on the

eight pounds. I expect the same kind of action to be more consistent

holding pen in early November and it has been nothing short of incredible

this month.

ever since.

Look for the larger trout to hold over any kind of change in the bottom

There have been few days if any, even in deteriorating weather

and it does not have to be shell or grass. The most productive water for

conditions, when a limit of slot reds has not been all but a guarantee.

me, whether it is on the Louisiana shoreline or south of the spoil islands

An outgoing tide ensures the catching will be even easier for anglers

76

Sabine during that period, a 32-inch fish that bottomed out the ten-pound

on the north end, has been the transition from packed sand to mud. Small

fishing the river and bayous, but that added advantage is considered a

patches of shell can get red hot as well, but we tend to over-fish those

bonus rather than a necessity.

isolated magnets.

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

Will and Grace Ann Brown were proud of their first redfish.

Because most of that type of bottom is in water 3 to 5 feet deep, we will catch many of our larger trout drifting, rather than wading, this month. Once we have located a few good fish on one of these flats, we do not just drift and continue to cast. As soon as we get the first strike, I stop the drift with my Stakeout Stick and make repeated casts, as it is not unusual to catch more than one big trout in a small area.

If it is shallow enough and the fish were holding on shell that we did not know about, I will mark it and we will wade it the following trip.

Remember, while the presence of mullet can be a make or break factor, water clarity is not a big issue on Sabine. Even our clearest water does not get very high marks from anglers that fish the lower coast!

While lures like Rapala’s new SubWalk are getting more playing time each trip , Catch V’s, 2000’s, Corkies, and Crazy Croakers are already proven winners on Sabine this time of the year. Easily our top colors are bone or chartreuse combinations as well as the reliable electric chicken. Blackchartreuse or morning glory will sometimes salvage a long day when the water is exceptionally off-colored.

I also catch a number of good fish this time of the year on the five inch Assassin Texas Shad in pumpkin, glow-chartreuse, or morning glory.

I usually swim it on a 1/16 ounce head or Texas rig it weightless with a 3/0 Mustad wide gap worm hook. I have also had clients stay in the hunt by dragging the Assassin on a Carolina rig on windy days.

Both Rayburn and Toledo Bend are in a position to build levels right now, so fresh water runoff should not be a major problem. You have to love it to fish in the winter, but the shot at an encounter with a big speck on Sabine this month is worth weathering the discomfort of a little cold wind and drizzling rain!

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

77

Trinity Bay Waters have gotten cold over here.

Midbay and open bay fishing has pretty much come to a halt with the exception of striper fishing. We have been catching stripers and hybrids in open bay waters. Good warming between fronts has helped. We have been doing well on Corky’s and Mirrolures in shallower water, about waist deep. We have been catching some trout up to 26-inches. Most of the nice one though have been in the 20 – 22” class. They really have been good solid fish, nice and chunky like we expect in winter.

Most of the redfish in Trinity Bay are on the east shoreline right now. They have been running in the skinny water, about knee deep. Spoons and soft plastics have been working well on the reds, good slot reds are very common with a few oversized. Some of the midbay shell reefs on the west shore line have been holding some fish however they are not sticking like they usually do in the winter time. We have a lot of bait out there and the fish do not have to concentrate. There is some decent trout action to be had in your upper bays like Tabb’s, Burnett, Scott, San Jacinto and Black Duck. These bays have been paying off real well with trout in about six feet of water and taking soft plastics. Most of the fish are anywhere from 16 to 20 inches. We have been able to catch limits here between fronts.

West Bay Mid-bay shell has seen a little bit of action, nothing to really write home about, though.

The boats are starting to get pretty crowded over the shell from north and south of Deer Island and down toward Karankawa Reef. We have been receiving reports from anglers working that mid-bay shell and they report that the mud streaks with soft plastics and Mirrolures have been the best bets. Confederate Reef and Anderson Ways have been good for wading.

We have heard that some of the guys have been catching some good trout with Mirrolures and Corkys over there. Reports indicate fair numbers of chunky trout in the two and three pound class.

It’s January and things have been a little slower overall, but it is that time of year and you just to wait it out. Luckily we have been getting these good warming trends between the fronts and we have been popping some good fish when everything opens on these warm windows. Real good winter patterns have set in pretty near everywhere and the fish are establishing a residency near deep water. The deep water provides a good escape when the fronts barrel through. They are staying close enough to have easy access to the shallow shell, towheads, and soft mud bottoms. This enables them to do their feeding between fronts and then slip back down when they need to.

Overall, we are just playing the weather here on the Galveston bays.

You have to hit it at the right time between fronts and with the right wind direction. We got good patterns on both trout and redfish and unless something really bad happens I don’t see it changing much during February.

Upper Galveston Sylvan Beach is still holding some good fish over at the pier pilings. We have been catching them in about six to eight feet of water using soft plastics and Mirrolures. These have been the best baits.

Lower Galveston Moses and Clear Lake are both holding good keeper sized specks. Soft plastics have been the bait of choice here.

East Bay Best action in East Bay of late has been along the north shoreline. We have been successful behind the northers and before the next good front comes in. A good area to look at is the south shoreline behind Marsh Point. The Rollover area has been yielding some good specs on Mirrolures and Corky’s.

78

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

79

As the New Year rolled in, fishing was somewhat hit and miss. Since my last fishing day was December 15, 2007, I have been relying upon reports from clients and fellow guides.

The consensus seems to indicate that for those who picked their days carefully, dodging cold fronts and high wind, the catches have been fair to decent. My hands-on report will be limited at this point due to shoulder surgery December 17, 2007, but I am recovering nicely and should see fishing action come February. My boat and I will both be ready with a new engine and a new arm.

Back to those comments on the weather; where else but Texas and maybe a few other select places along the Gulf coast does the temperature vary from 29° one day to 80° weather just a couple days later? It can sometimes be difficult to decide whether you should leave the house in a tee-shirt and shorts or a wool sweater and goose down parka. Naturally, this weather affects the fish the same way it affects us, so planning and picking your days carefully is very important.

February fishing patterns here in the Matagorda region run virtually the same as what we typically see during January. The only difference might be slightly colder water temperatures, which should instantly remind us that fish are cold-blooded creatures and their body temperature will mirror the water temperature. With this in mind, one factor that I always stress this time of year is for fishermen to slow their presentations basically to a crawl. Learning to move the lure slowly and keep it in front of cold fish that are hanging deep over mud or mud-oyster bottom can make all the difference between a successful or frustrating day on the water. Another thing to remember is that your smaller fish might feed daily, but chances are your bigger guys will feed maybe once or twice a week. A lot of this depends upon the water temperature, how it affects their metabolism, and of course the size of baitfish or other forage they are able to catch and eat when they do decide to feed.

When you have picked your day and you’re out there looking for fish, try mud or mud and scattered shell bottoms. The presence of baitfish is another important factor. As you view my pics you will see some of the baits I like to use this time of year including Saltwater Assassins, Mirrolures, and Corkies.

The Colorado River can certainly become a February hot spot for Matagorda anglers. The Diversion Channel is another spot that can really turn on, especially after a really hard and cold norther. You can find and catch reds and trout alike in both these bodies of water when the conditions are right. By conditions being right, what I’m saying is the river cannot be swollen with run-off and flood water. At this time the Colorado 80

Texas Saltwater Fishing

Trophy time for Don Hammons, Larry Gerdes and Ralph Aulds in East Matagorda Bay - Corky lures.

is running clean with that beautiful green winter tint and barring any major rainfall in the watershed we should see some very good fishing in the river this winter and maybe even into spring.

Locations such as the entrance to Crab Lake and Mad Island Cut over in West Matagorda Bay off the Intracoastal Canal can be good producers of late winter redfish. Back over in East Matagorda Bay, check out Gulf Cut, Boggy Cut, and all the cuts off the Intracoastal Canal in front of Chinquapin to see what’s happening. These areas provide all the structure the fish love to hang on in late winter - shallow water, shell and mud, deep water for retreating when the water temperature drops.

Anglers can also cash in on opportunity by drifting deeper reefs out in the middle of East Bay. If you should happen across sitting seagulls, slicks, mullet, and streaky off-green water you might be in for some great wintertime action. Check your GPS to see if any of these signs may be occurring over reefs or other structure and then try setting your drift to keep you over it as long as possible. Avoid cranking your big motor while still over the fish or near the structure. Drift well away or use a trolling motor instead whenever getting ready to leave or come back around for another pass at them.

Here’s one last tidbit for you that can make you a better fisherman and is also something that I like to pass along to all my clients. I find that it has always paid off for me to keep track of my retrieve speed and the way I work my lure. I always try to memorize and then repeat whatever I was doing to draw that first strike of the day. Trout especially can be finicky feeders in winter and what they hit today may be the last thing they’ll hit tomorrow. During a day of fishing we almost surely will encounter slow periods when bites become hard to find. It is these times when I go back to what enticed that first fish of the day to take a strike at my lure and you would be surprised to learn how many times it is that same retrieve that break the dry spell. Let me say that sometimes the difference bites and no bites can be a simple as how many times we twitch the rod tip or how many cranks we take on the reel handle before we twitch it again.

Memorizing your retrieve will make you a better fisherman if you can find the patience and discipline to do a good job of it. See you on the water soon and God Bless.

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

81

February is normally our

If boat traffic becomes a problem move to a different location. Boat traffic

coldest month of the year with more

the fish will move to coves or corners of these lakes to escape the boat

arctic fronts and less time in between

traffic. Try these areas before relocating.

and discourteous boaters will a lot of times shutdown a bite! Sometimes

them. This means fewer fishable

So now you are fishing in warmer water because of the muddy

days and less time in between fronts

structure below. Next you will need to locate another main ingredient….

means fewer warming trends in the

bait! When the water is 55 degrees or less the mullet will usually be

water temperatures. Which is why we

subsurface. They won’t be as actively jumping around on the surface like

will talk about protected areas to fish

they do under warmer conditions. Look for ripples, swirls or any other kind

and what lures will be most effective

of water disturbance.

for catching reds and trout from these frigid waters.

One last ingredient you will need to look for is off-colored water. This can be caused by mullet milling around on the bottom or due to high winds.

One thing you will notice about

The reason this ingredient is important is because most of the bay water

me, no matter what time of the

becomes ultra clear when the water temperature gets colder making it

year, I am constantly monitoring

difficult for predators to sneak up on their prey and for prey to hide from

the temperature of the water. Until

predators. Redfish and trout take advantage of these “muddy” waters

about eight years ago I would not

enabling them to better ambush baitfish.

normally target trout until the water

Once you have found the four main ingredients to the recipe your next

temperatures reached 55 degrees, I would target redfish instead till temperatures rose during the day.

step will be choice of lures. Normally I start a day with soft plastics when the water is below the 55 degree mark. The type of soft plastics varies

During my shoreline burning days I noticed many trout on shorelines

from Saltwater Assassins, Swimming Shiners and the Eel Assassin to the

and pockets in water much cooler than 55 degrees. Probably the coolest

suspended types like Corky’s or Crazy Croakers by Tidal Surge. Good

water I have spotted a trout in was 48 degrees. Now I am talking shallow water and these fish probably moved up on these shallows to catch the sun’s warming rays.

The coldest water I have caught trout in is 49 degrees. I have caught trout in colder water in deep holes where there is a thermocline. You are probably scratching your head right about now and thinking “HUH?” Let me explain. The surface temperature could be 47 degrees but ten feet down where the fish are it could be 52 degrees, 5 degrees warmer! You may not think five degrees is much difference but when there is no heater nearby five degrees could mean life or death for these fish.

Okay back to catching. The areas I target will always have soft mud bottoms so I am talking back lakes. Still no clue? Try Contee, Pringle Lake and Long Lake for starters. On a mild weathered day you will have some company as these are well-publicized areas and easily accessed.

82

Texas Saltwater Fishing

Scott and Terry Dickson with a couple of cold water redfish.

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

Kathy Jones shows that topwaters have a place in your winter arsenal.

choices for hard baits include Mirrolure Catch 2000’s, Catch 2000 Jr., or the Catch 5. It doesn’t matter which lure I choose I will work them slowly and in the lower portions of the water column.

The colors I choose in the winter months are your more natural colored baits such as pearl/chartreuse, pumpkinseed, and the salt-n-pepper silver phantom. The cooler the water the slower you will work your lure. The fish will dictate what speed is best.

I don’t get serious about using topwaters till the water temperature is anywhere from 55 to 58 degrees and rising. I don’t care what anybody else says, my experience tells me this is the optimum temperature for me to have the most success using topwaters. The topwaters I will throw vary from She Dogs to Top Dogs usually in the 804, 808 or chartreuse/white/chartreuse patterns. If I am consistently getting blow-ups and no hook ups I will switch back to soft plastics. One little tip that I always apply to winter topwater fishing is that if the mullet are active on the waters surface meaning jumping or flipping I will not hesitate trying out my surface selections.

There is nothing scientific about the temperatures mentioned; they are simply the product of my personal on-the-water experience and from my detailed logs that reach back more than twenty years. I hope these tips make your February fishing more productive. Fish smart, fish hard!

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

83

Through the years I’ve had to adapt

You’ve got to go to the areas where you know the right structure is

to all kinds of conditions Mother

located. Even though you can’t see the rocks or grass beds or sandy

First, fish the areas that have worked before the water turned brown.

Nature dealt us. The one that

bottom, you’ve fished there before and should have it marked on your

threw me the toughest curve was

GPS or in your memory. Be very patient; tune your senses up and slow

the brown tide. It doesn’t kill the

everything down. Look for even the slightest bait movement, especially

fish; they are still there, it’s just a

mullet flipping. It doesn’t have to be a lot, just any movement or swirl.

matter of figuring out how to catch

Seeing mullet flip will give you the confidence that there are some trout

them in brown water with near

in the area.

zero visibility.

The first year I experienced

Second; and I know I’ve already said this, but you’ve got to work very slowly. Don’t go tromping through an area. If I see a mullet flip,

the brown tide was in 1990. I

I’ll sometimes stand thirty minuets without taking a step, covering the

thought I was going to become

entire area well with the lure. Casting several times within ten feet of

Captain Bobber. I threw shrimp and popping corks and thought that was the only way I was going to be

the cast before it. The fish can’t see the lure so they have to locate it by sound. On the first few casts, the retrieve will be fast; then I’ll

able to catch fish. That winter there was no bait and I needed to adapt. I

slow it down and start twitching and even pausing. Imagine the fish

still had a lot of clients that wanted to catch big trout, but with the brown

are in a thick fog, you have to give them time to locate the lure. The

tide I knew it was going to be tough.

presentation needs to be slow and repetitive while wading very quietly.

As that first winter season with the brown tide wore on I discovered that I needed to do things differently. I needed to fish slower than normal and fish shallower than normal. So, with the brown water that

Patience is a real key to the brown tide.

Third would be the lure and the way to rig it. I tie a loop knot on a topwater to give it more side to side action, this helps to keep it in one

we are experiencing right now in Baffin Bay, we’ve got to use the old

spot longer. I try to make the lure roll in the water. As far as color,

tricks to catch big trout.

the dark colors work very well in dingy water. In dirty brown water I start out with the black Top Dog that has the chartreuse head. If it’s really windy and rough with a lot of noise on the

Brown tide, sow trout! Chris Gunther caught this thirty-two inch trout that weighed ten and three quarter pounds. Three of us had only six strikes all day, but they were all big fish. We were in knee deep brown water and the visibility was less than three inches.

84

Texas Saltwater Fishing

Some of the author’s favorite baits for catching winter trout in the brown tide.

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

surface, I go with a She Dog, its higher pitch and louder rattle are a plus.

But, you need to remember that whenever it’s calm or shallow, keep the lure quiet. I also like the Corky with the morning glory/chartreuse tail. I do better with the Fat Boy, I am able get better action, moving it side to side and leaving it in one spot. To cover the deeper water I use the Bass Assassin Kwik Cork with a leader about twenty-inches long. To this I attach a quarterounce chartreuse lead head with a five-inch Shad in morning glory. This rig makes a lot of noise and keeps the worm off the bottom, out of the grass, and suspended in the strike zone. Once they hear the noise they can locate it and hammer it.

The brown tide comes and goes. A few years ago, it was brown in the front of Baffin Bay and clear in the back, near Alazan Bay. In 1994 the brown tide was terrible and it turned out to be my best year of catching trophy trout. We’ve had record rain fall this year and some say that the brown tide is caused from the fresh water run off. Whatever the cause, right now, my focus is on Baffin Bay. In February and March the trout are at their heaviest weight of the year. It will take patience and a good attitude but we will be catching trophy trout.

The water conditions on the north end of the Laguna Madre have been near perfect. The water is clear and beautiful. All the channels around the JFK Causeway have been holding some keeper sized trout. I expect the cold fronts will continue to push clear water down the King Ranch shoreline, eventually reaching the north end of Baffin and giving us a flush of good clean water. I’ve seen it happen before.

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

85

In a word, “outstanding” best described fishing in Port Mansfield during late December and early January. There seems to be a lot of fish in the system right now, and if you can wiggle around nature’s timing, some of the most exciting catches of the year are upon us, not to mention some of the biggest. We haven’t seen

Topwaters came into play as the sun cranked up the energy levels; this one strapped right at eight pounds.

many trout bettering eight pounds yet, but action has been fairly predictable for thick-bodied specs running twenty two to twenty eight inches, and that’s aside from the worldclass redfishing we’ve had. As always, timing during winter is everything. However, being this far south, most of our northers are mild and short-lived, so it is often business as usual within just a few hours of a big blow. Last week was a prime example of typical Laguna winter fishing.

A significant norther pushed air temps down to thirty eight degrees and the water plummeted from sixty seven down to fifty one on the flats. That is an extreme thermal change, and most would think it’s over for a while unless you go to the overly emphasized ‘deep and low’ approach. Quite the contrary here. The very next day, as soon as the winds diminished, a full sun blue bird sky made for a quick recovery.

Shallow water responds rapidly to temperature changes, so by mid-morning, sun drenched flats near deeper water with silty/grassy bottoms were quick to fill with baitfish. The predators were right behind them, hungry and aggressive.

Large groups of redfish dominated shin deep or less water while trout basked in slightly deeper potholes. Typically, on the first opportunity they have to eat, they will, so be there if you can.

Jim Dennett with one of many knee deep reds caught that day …single hooked Corky 86

Texas Saltwater Fishing

Brown Lure Devils, paddle tails, Corkies and topwaters February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

all worked well on these gorging fish. They seemed to favor a faster retrieve, even in the ‘warming’ fifty five degree water. There again goes the deep and slow theory for all applications. At the cleaning table, the ones we kept were absolutely full of everything from sheepshead minnows to shrimp to eight inch mullet, telling us they feed very well early. Immediate norther recovery is some of the most rewarding shallow water fishing we have here, and for us, it’s all about wading into them and working areas thoroughly.

Pictured is Jim Dennett with one of many knee deep reds caught that day, most all in the upper slot range. He chose a Corky rigged with single hooks and said he only missed one fish out of fifteen. [Personally, as time goes on, treble hooks seem increasingly unnecessary.] Topwaters came more into play as the sun cranked up the energy levels, including one trout strapping seven pounds and another right at eight. Welcome to the Laguna Madre.

In trying to predict February, who but the weatherman can? Speaking of which, being a full time guide you need to be right at least fifty percent of the time. We just haven’t seen that high of a success ratio with winter weather forecasting. We just go anyway and so should you, barring anything dangerous of course.

What we can predict, however, is a high potential for a good trophy trout season. One indication is the impressive amount of large trout we are seeing sunning on the flats between northers. They have mostly been scattered singles mixed in with the reds, but they are in numbers we haven’t seen in years, so hopefully we will have opportunity to catch them as they move to more workable areas. Many of the ones we have been seeing have been in water far too shallow to shut down, even for specialized flats boats. personal best fish during this fantastic month, but you’ve got to get out there

February is traditional for some of our heaviest trout and we’ll be concentrating on shorelines, small depressions draining flats, sunny potholes,

to make it happen. Port Mansfield is one of those special places where it can

and of course the extreme shallows as the bait concentrations suggest. This

certainly happen. We are looking forward to visiting with some of you during

is the time of year where we have a realistic chance to catch not only one

the upcoming Houston Fishing Show March 5-9, so stop by the Fishing Tackle

but several trout over twenty five inches on a single good day. If you are so

Unlimited booth for all of your 2OO8 gear needs and to trade a few stories.

fortunate, remember the one over twenty five rule and release the others

Again, it looks like a promising year!

with affection.

On a side note, I finally broke down and spooled up with braided line.

Using Suffix twenty pound test with an equivalent diameter of six pound mono has been nothing short of fun, not to mention productive. A large part of lure fishing is feeling that softer bite, and even though I don’t think I had a problem doing that with monofilament, I now “feel” like I have been missing something. What a difference, and I have yet to experience any of the disadvantages I have heard about, such as backlashes and the line wrapping around your rod tip. If I could offer a negative, it would be that playing large fish with no-stretch line takes some getting used to, so make sure your drags are as smooth as they can be.

Here’s hoping you catch your www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

87

We are fortunate in Deep South

Nine year old Nicholas nabbed his first Texas snook - 25 1/2 inches.

Texas in that we only get a few really cold days out of the year.

If history repeats itself, February is sure to throw us a few cold punches. The good thing is that the cold temperatures don’t last but a day or two. As of this writing, our winter has been mild. As a matter of fact, ever since the first good cold snap we received at Thanksgiving, the fishing overall has really improved.

During late November through December and January, our trout numbers have increased considerably. Not only are

a ho m e Hugo hit is first h run on ip. shing tr wade fi

and targeting these big fish have a quick deep water access route. Knowing where they like to hang out during winter helps.

Something that we have done to increase our chances of landing a trophy is to spread out in line formation at different depths ranging from waist to knee deep and sweep the area where they have been known to hold. Before we jump off the boat I explain what usually works, what the

bottom looks like, along with instructions to keep my pace. As we wade, I am paying attention to who’s at the end of the most bites, what’s working, what’s not, slow down the wade, or wade faster. You could say that I am a drill sergeant out there.

When I see the fish are at a certain depth, I instruct everyone to zero Earl’s Christmas present came in the shape of a snook. His first snook 26 3/4.

in on it. One day we might find the majority of the fish in knee deep water, and returning the next day we might find they have moved to waist deep.

One thing I can say, if you did your homework last winter, you will come

we catching numbers, but big trout are showing up too. We have been enjoying many windless days with bay waters smooth as glass. It’s

88

to find out that they are in the same winter holes again this year.

The weather conditions and water temperatures will dictate where the

during such times that you can see exactly what’s below the surface;

fish comfort zone will be. Our water temperatures have fluctuated from a

and boy, have I seen some impressive trout. The majority are stationed

chilly fifty-eight to a warm seventy-one degrees. From my daily logbook

in potholes of three to four foot depth. The areas we have been sighting

I have noted that our best big trout days this winter have come when

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

the water temperature has held between sixty-four and sixty-seven. I have fished before, during, and after frontal passages, and all conditions have produced some very nice fish. A few times we were lucky to fish just as the front arrived and the bite was impressive, The birds became really active right before the front hit, and the topwater action was unbelievable.

On a couple occasions we found the trout desperately hungry for topwaters despite north winds exceeding twenty mph and air temperature in the low sixties. Fishing has also been exceptional after frontal passages, especially when the sun has warmed the grass flats. It’s during these warming trends that we have found redfish traveling in small schools and lots of singles in crystal clear water and hungry for any easy target.

Ernie and Pat had a blast catching redfish while wading in the winter.

Winter low tides, but come spring do you know where the fish will be? Do your homework.

the opposite direction. These conditions made us feel like we were in a big washing machine. It’s the time of the year where the weather can become unpredictable; make sure you don’t get caught out there as we did, but if you do, let someone know of your whereabouts.

I mentioned earlier that the magical water temperature seems right around the mid-sixties mark. The fish have been really active on big topwaters and the best retrieve has been fast and loud. Best overall weather has been has been north or southeast wind less than fifteen, air temps in the mid-sixties to lower-seventies with strong tidal current. Surprisingly, the areas we are targeting and catching our bigger fish have had little or no bait activity.

However — just because the bait is not Be sure to check the weather before going out because conditions can

active at the surface doesn’t mean they’re not there. Our best indicator has

become downright nasty in a hurry during February. I personally like to check

been gulls sitting on the water. If nothing else they told the depth we needed

several sources anytime a front is expected. Not too long ago I did the usual

to work.

thing of checking the weather on the net and then doubled checked by calling

Consistent winter baits have been big topwaters, Corky Devils, and

the local meteorologist. The forecast did not look too bad so we headed out in

Brown’s smaller sea devils. These baits have nabbed big trout, reds, and

a ten mph north breeze, thinking the front was in. How wrong we were!

trophy snook this winter. In addition to all the good trout and redfish action

As soon as we dropped anchor the boat swung to the north and we saw a

that has been going on, the winter snook fishing has been outstanding as of

massive dark-blue frontal formation headed our way. We decided to stay put

December thru the first of the year and should continue to stay strong thru the

and wait it out. Wrong again! The ten mph north breeze whipped up to thirty

month of February. Right now it seems like the Lower Laguna Madre has a

with gusts of thirty-five and more. The water turned chocolate within a matter

variety and lots to offer. If you can dress warm, stay dry, and bear the cooler

of minutes. I knew then it was going to be a rough ride back to the dock.

temperatures of February, you will not be disappointed.

Three foot waves were rolling one way and the current was flowing in

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

89

February is the month of the flounder run here on Calcasieu Lake. It usually starts around Valentines Day. All cuts leading from the lake into the marsh around the estuary are potentially good spots. Productive colors include glow, avocado with red tail, purple and chartreuse, and black and chartreuse. February is also a great month for catching trophy speckled trout both by drifting and wadefishing. They can be found on flats from the north end of the lake all the way into West Cove closer to the gulf. When fishing for giant trout, look for a presence of mullet and use lures that look like mullet. Best lures to use are the Corky, Corky Devil, Catch 2000, Catch 5, and large sand eels with the lightest jighead you can stand. Redfish can be caught on these same flats using the same methods. If water temperatures fall into the forties, the Industrial Canal north of the Intracoastal Waterway will be a great place to try. Any other deep holes will have potential to produce trout in excess of twenty seven inches as well when the water is at its coldest.

Randall reports excellent fishing in his corner of the world this winter. “We are boxing limits with good regularity, not every day, but it’s really good. Actually, the fish we’re catching are holding on shell reefs, and I think this pattern of lots of quality fish on open water reefs should hold through February. The size of the trout is predictably on the upper end of the scale right now. Had a couple of six pounders the other day. Those we caught on the old Mega Ghost topwaters.

They are really loud and large. They aren’t available anymore, but a He Dog or an XRap would be a good substitute. Of course, our best numbers are coming on the soft plastics, especially the Norton Sand Eels in both red and black magic.

By the way, Norton is coming out with a new color series which will have colors injected into the core of the baits around a clear outer layer with glitter in it. They are really impressive. I also really like the new Inshore Series rods from Laguna.

They have a little more backbone than the rods I normally use, making them great for topwaters.”

James says the fishing has been good recently, particularly prior to the big front that hit around the turn of the new year. “We had lots of limits and decent fish too throughout December. It’s been a little slower so far in January. Best bite lately is in the upper reaches of Trinity Bay. It’s unusual for the water up there to be so clear this time of year. Fish aren’t really stacked on the reefs lower in that bay because of that; most of them are closer to the river mouth. Key over there is to find the bait, which often means keying on bird activity, brown pelicans or any other birds that can give away the location of the bait. East Bay is good too; the shoreline fishing over there should be excellent in February, especially if we continue to have warmer than normal weather. West Bay has a few fish, but it’s nothing spectacular. Too much salty water elsewhere to make it great in that bay this year.” He continues to catch most of his fish on 51 Mirrolures, but says his clients have fared better with Bass Assassins. Natural colors work well on most days, given the clear water.

Tommy mentions a variety of areas and patterns that should work in the Matagorda bays in February. “We’ll be in the river on the colder days. Best lures in there are soft plastics with a lot of wobble, like Norton Bull Minnows and the Hogie split tail shrimp. Chartreuse is the best color, period. We’ll drag them along the bottom behind the boat on three eighth ounce heads. When it’s warmer, of course, we head to East Bay for the big trout bite. Drifting mud streaks over scattered shell is the key to catching them out of the boat. We like soft plastics and the conventional Mirrolures, the 51 and 52 series. The key is to keep the lures ticking off the shell in the muddy streaks. We also wade some mud in East Bay this time of year. Fish will be shallow from the middle of the day on. Corkies work best there for some of the best trout of the year. In West Bay, it’s more of a redfish thing. We’ll target the marsh drains after fronts with low tides. Using Sand Eels on light jigheads works great. It’s usually a subtle bite on a low, slow presentation.”

Jim was winding down a busy and productive duck season when we spoke.

“The duck hunting was good. Of course, like the fishing, it’s weather dependent.

Productive patterns to fish in February will largely depend on how cold the weather is. If we get some more strong fronts like we had around New Year’s, there will be more fish deep. In that case, I’ll spend time in the bayous, working deep bends and holes out of the boat, using the trolling motor. When working that pattern, soft plastics are most productive. However, if we get into a warmer pattern, where the fronts are lighter and the cold weather doesn’t last as long after each one, the fish will pile up on shallow shorelines in East Bay. In that type of weather, I’ll do a lot more wading. I’ll still throw Bass Assassins and Stanley Wedge Tails, but the Corkies and especially Catch 2000s will get more play. It’s hard to beat the Catch 2000 for hookup and catch ratios. You just don’t miss many fish on it. I’m not a big believer in colors; it’s more about finding the fish and using the right type of lure.”

Fishing has been very good lately all around Palacios. The Colorado, Tres Palacios, and Carancahua rivers have all been holding fish when the water’s cold.

Trout have been ranging up to nineteen inches and redfish have been small to medium slot fish. Slowrolling heavy leadheads (three eighth) off the shoreline drop has accounted for most of the river fish. Hot colors so far this winter have been Norton Bull Minnows in morning glory, salt n’ pepper, and cayenne gold. Berkley Gulp shrimp in new penny, nuclear chicken, and pearl have also been working.

Nightfishing has really taken off with the cooler weather. The Pavilion and Turning Basins one and two have been holding some keeper redfish and specks. Splittail beetles in glow and lime have been productive down on the bayfront. We had a run of big trout with nine caught between twenty five and twenty eight inches on mud flats in a back bay over the last two weekends. They hit pearl/black and chartreuse Fat Boys. The bite was not fast and furious, but persistence was rewarded.

90

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

The upper end of the Laguna Madre has still been producing more fish than the lower part, but like a friend of mine use to say, “Things change.” With the water being clearer in the upper end of the Laguna, it has been easier to catch numbers of both speckled trout and redfish, but I believe that because the water temperature has been dropping, this has in turn caused the water in the Baffin Bay area to begin to clear up slightly. With the water clarity improving in Baffin Bay, we should be able to start seeing the structures that had been hard to see because of the brown tide. The month of February is going to provide very good opportunities to catch trophy trout. I’ll be looking for the warmer, sunny days that will warm up the water along shorelines that have mud and shell bottoms because these areas will heat up quicker and attract the fish. This will be a good time to fish the Mirrolure Catch 5 about three feet below the surface, or Exude RT Slugs and Bass Assassin Slurps on quarter ounce jigheads bounced on the bottom.

Lynn’s February plan will be to target muddy area with a nice mix of grass and shell in them. “I like to fish pretty shallow, but stay on flats that are adjacent to some of the deepest water in the general area that I’m fishing. When fishing for big trout this month, I stick with Corkies much of the time. I like to thoroughly cover any bottom features, whether they be potholes, grass edges or other likely ambush points for the trout. Corkies are great for working stuff like that. They can be worked slowly enough to stay next to whatever the contour or feature is for quite some time, giving the fish a chance to home in on them. Of course, if we see lots of jumping bait and the water is warm, we’ll switch over to topwaters, particularly the She Dogs, Skitterwalks and Super Spooks. I like to offer the fish something large, going by the old theory of big bait/big fish. Mostly this month, we focus our fishing on the warm part of the day. We don’t get up early and run out at the crack of dawn; we like to wait for the sun to warm the flats for us first.”

Joe expects some excellent fishing in February in the Corpus area. “I’ll be heading to Baffin like most other folks. There have been some big trout caught over there already, and historically, February is one of the best months for that. I target shallow water as much as possible, given reasonably warm water. I like to stick with my basic lures most of the time, the Bass Assassins or Exudes, rigging them on light jigheads when working potholes and shallow flats near deep water. If the weather gets colder, I’ll be back working the deeper water along the dropoffs in Baffin and also along the ICW. There, heavier jigheads are necessary to get the lure down to where the fish are, typically hanging out on the secondary ledges.

Of course, the King Ranch Shoreline will be a favorite place to try too. Though the water is still a little brown right on the shore, the water in the deeper potholes farther out is clear. I’ll focus on those. The water should improve in that area once tides return to normal levels which it usually does in February.”

Blake is finishing up the cast and blast season, but expects to be fishing hard in his new 24 foot Haynie High Output come February. “We’ve been really catching the redfish after shooting at the ducks,” he says. “Had some exciting days on the trout too. I’ll be back to fishing with full focus next month and targeting big trout on most days. Wading with Corkies and topwaters will be the preferred plan, of course. I like to stay mostly in our back bays during late winter, spending a lot of time on and near soft muddy bottoms, especially in areas where there is a good mix of scattered shell and soft grass in addition to the mud. Transition areas between the open bays and the marshes is always a good bet. Some of our biggest trout of the year usually bite in February. It is one of the best topwaters months of all, too. Last year, we caught them most every day on top, even with fronts blowing in and the wind howling. When the water does get super chilled, I’ll go back to the Corkies and of course the Sand Eels, as I always do. Big trout like them too.”

Bruce says the trout fishing in Port Mansfield is already showing signs, and that consistent water temperatures in the fifties, which are common in February, can only help the action. “We aren’t really seeing the numbers of redfish mixed with the trout lately, but some of the trout are big. Usually, we fish the muddy drains and it’s not uncommon to catch a few oversized reds right in there with the big trout. This year, the reds are noticeably absent. We did have one trout in the thirty one inch class that weighed over nine pounds and several others between seven and eight and a half pounds. We are catching most of our trout on Catch 2000s, though that big one came on a black/chartreuse She Dog. With the Catch 2000s, I like to keep three of each color in my wading box, one with original hooks, one with the same size hooks with a heavier shank, and the last with even bigger, heavier hooks. That way, I can adjust the sink rate and the depth at which I am working the plug. It allows me to work the knee to waist deep waters more effectively and thoroughly.”

February usually sees a carbon copy of January’s surf fishing along Padre Island National Seashore, with Florida pompano and whiting being the most commonly sought species. Slot and oversized redfish, sheepshead and black drum are available in varying numbers from one year to the next. There is typically a flurry of shark activity around Valentine’s Day, but for some reason it is most often a short term event. Fresh dead shrimp and Fishbites fished on bottom at the end of a leader will work well on all the species except the sharks. Pink colored shrimp Fishbites have been the most productive baits of all so far this winter. The dead sheepshead and whiting will work to get the attention of the sharks. For the past several years, winter surf fishing for speckled trout has peaked in February. Best lures for these fish will be natural colored soft plastics, 51 and 52 Mirrolures, and of course topwaters on days when the bite is really active. Beware of strong northeast winds which will stack water onto the beach, making driving treacherous.

The new year started off with some fishing fireworks. If the beginning of ’08 is any indication of what we can expect for the rest of the year, it will be the best trout fishing we’ve seen in a decade. We’re limiting on trout with at least two a boat over 25 inches, up to 29. So far we haven’t reached the 30 inch class, but it looks to be just a matter of time until the personal bests will fall, because the fish we’re catching are healthy and heavy. We’re targeting deeper guts, using a combination of a mauler with 3 inch Berkley Gulp shrimp in new penny, glow or molting for trout, flounder and redfish. We’re keeping at least one rod rigged for bumping the bottom with a Gulp on a quarter ounce head, but the flounder have hit the maulers too. When the wind kicks up around noon we’re moving shallower with the same tackle but a faster retrieve. Freddy says, “Winter fishing for trout is always some of the best of all, but this year we are already catching them like we did ten years ago. It should be a banner year for our bay.”

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

91

CW Raetzsch shows off a nice pair of Baffin trout.

Brian Walters caught and tagged this 44 3/4” red while out in West Matagorda.

Dylan Postel hooked this 22” trout while fishing the Galveston Cosway.

Texas Saltwater Fishing

Beda Corrigan of Poth proudly shows off her drum she caught while fishing Indianola Beach.

Mickey Bailey and Dylan McGinnis team up and smile big as they show off their 21” red.

Anna Cooper and daughter Keira show off mom’s 22” trout caught while out fishing in Seadrift.

Kevin Cooper tricked this 27” 5# trout while fishing with his family in Seadrift.

92

Scott Motal caught and released this jack crevale in Freeport.

Daniel DeLeon caught and released his first snook measuring 34” while out kayaking.

Gary Harvey tackled this 32 1/4” trout while out fishing in Baffin Bay. February 2008

Ashley Bailey caught and released this baby shark while out fishing with her family.

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

Alfredo and Ashley Serrato show off Ashley’s first red measuring 28” and landed on artificial.

Angelique Cornelius proudly shows off her first red landed while at the Jetties in Galveston.

Zach Stevens fished the POC surf for the first time and caught and released his first 27” Spanish Mackerel.

Brad Paris with a 28.5” trout caught in Baffin Bay.

Teri Cardenas snagged this 26” spec while fishing the JFK Cosway.

Wendell Leadfstedt hooked this 27 1/2” trout while fishing in Redfish Bay.

Rodney Parker caught and released this 35” red on a recent fishing trip.

Mowgli Montes de Oca of Lake Jackson after landing his dinner, caught at the San Luis Pass RV park.

Ralph Betancourt landed his first ever redfish while fishing Dagger Island. The red measured 27”.

JT Fritts of La Grange caught and released this 39” red while fishing in Matagorda.

Left: Dean Loessberg and MJ Villarreal show off their pair of reds landed while fishing Padre Island.

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

93

Pa ella pa rt TWo

Pa ella pa rt Th re e

Pa ell a pa rt four

Serve it with a salad!

94

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

95

MATAGORDA

Your ad could be here Hurry call 361-785-3420 for more details.

96

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

February 2008

Texas Saltwater Fishing

97

Enter the contest today! Go to page 8 for more details…

2002 Majek 21 RFL - 2002 Mercury 150 EFI $21,500 Call 361-785-3420 or 361-550-3637 - New deck paint, new hatches, new cushions.

- Power Pole w/remote control - Bob’s Hydraulic Jack Plate - Custom leaning post and casting/poling platform, burn bar.

- 2006 Techsun aluminum torsion trailer.

- Custom aluminum rod holders – 11 total - Garmin 172 GPS and AM-FM stereo radio/CD - 3-blade Baumann propeller - New water pump

98

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five

Boats, Kayaks, Outboards

For more information about these advertisers visit: http://www.texassaltwaterfishingmagazine.com/contact_advertisers_product.html Boats, Kayaks, Outboards Anderson Marine......................................................... 83 800-416-9003

Bernie’s Boats..............................................................14 361-573-7809

Big Boyz Toyz................................................................

65 956-686-9600

Busha Boat Works....................................................... 57 979-245-3369

Canoesports................................................................55 713-660-7000

Century Boats................................................................

29 877-880-0329

Coastal Backwater Marine........................................... 67 409-927-1462

Coastline Marine.......................................................

Cover 713-614-2057

El Campo Boating Center............................................. 69 800-843-2201

Flatsalker..................................................................... 47 361-857-7074

Gulf Coast Boats............................................................1 713-477-7119

Gulf Coast Marine..........................................................6 800-622-2449

Hill Country Boats...................................................Cover 512-342-2622

Honda Marine...............................................................50 800-426-7701

Huff Marine..................................................................61 361-991-0369

J&P Boats....................................................................45 979-285-7374

JH Performance Boats................................................. 79 979-233-1852

Kroll’s Marine...............................................................85 800-882-4461

LMC Marine Center................................ 2, Solunar Chart 888-797-9805

Cove Harbor Marina and Drystack................................20 361-790-5438

Espandre..................................................................... 49 281-543-1230

Fibertex & Supply.........................................................65 888-273-7077

Gulf Coast Trolling Motors............................................ 55 281-481-6832

Jet Dock.....................................................................100 361-972-2122

JL Marine - Power Pole................................................ 36 888-442-4900

John’s Fiberglass......................................................... 79 361-983-4546

Safe Floor Company.....................................................54 281-435-5904

Salt-A-Way...................................................................69 714-550-0987

South Texas Trolling Motors..........................................47 361-939-8970

Specialty Aluminum Works........................................... 14 361-575-1477

Stake Out Stik..............................................................47 409-748-7694

Tops-N-Towers....................................................... Cover 281-474-4000

Yeti Coolers................................................................. 81 512-394-9384

Fishing Products (rods, reels, tackle, etc.)

All Star Rods................................................................37 800-347-3759

American Rodsmiths......................................................7 713-466-7849

Bimini Bay-Tsunami.......................................................66 800-688-3481

Boone Bait Co.............................................................. 41 407-975-8775

Lone Star Yacht Sales....................................................

20

Castaway Rods............................................................61

Majek Boats...................................................................9

Fish Slick.....................................................................79

Mosca Boats................................................................49

Foreverlast.................................................................. 28

281-334-3500

936-582-1677

361-991-3102

361-985-2851

361-798-1530

Mt. Houston Marine......................................................63

H&H Fishing Rods........................................................15

Pathfinder Boats.......................................................... 21

L&S Bait Company...................................................... 39

281-447-7689

888-Shallow / 888-742-5569

Rockport Marine...........................................................15 361-729-7820

713-875-7827 727-584-7691

Laguna Rods............................................................... 47 979-921-9910

Ron Hoover RV & Marine Center.....................................1

Luresafety....................................................................49

Sea Vee Boats........................................................Cover

Mann’s Bait Company.................................................... 5

Shallow Sport Boats................................................Cover

Markar Brothers LLC Rollo Lures................................. 37

800-545-8818 281-220-2400

956-233-9489

713-203-2829 800-841-8425 330-402-4665

Shoalwater Boats.......................................................100

Mister Twister Exude Fan Tail Shrimp........................... 55

Skeeter Boats...............................................................53

Mud Hole.....................................................................65

Sport Marine................................................................65

Okuma........................................................................ 58

Suzuki........................................................................... 3

Penn.......................................................... Solunar Chart

361-983-4134

800-753-3837 281-238-0060 800-247-4704

800-344-6331 866-790-RODS (7637)

215-229-9415

REC Components.............................................................. 67

Trans Fiberglass Boat.................................................. 54

Rods by Pepper............................................................79

Yamaha Marine........................................................... 13

Shimano.......................................................................55

361-972-6629

866-894-1626

409-737-1136 800-274-4626 409-621-1126

Blackhawk Specialty Frabrication..................................77 361-785-3068

www.TSFMAG.com

860-749-3476

Strike Pro America.......................................................67

Boat Accessories

Just Keep Five

361-575-4751

Triangle Linewinders.................................................... 73 201-825-1212

US Reel.........................................................................19 314-962-9500

Wade Aid Enterprises...................................................79 888-923-3243

Waterloo Rods............................................................. 81 361-573-0300

Woodee Rods USA...................................................... 57 281-723-4154

Fishing retail locations Academy..................................................................... 95 888-922-2336

51 Bass Pro Outdoor World...................................................

800-BassPro / 800-227-7776

Blue Water Ships Stores...............................................14 281-334-7583

Boater’s World............................................................. 33 800-826-2628

David’s Tackle Box....................................................... 79 281-342-9669

Fishing Tackle Unlimited.................................... 41, Cover 281-481-6838

Paddlecast...................................................................69 713-674-0461

Roy’s Bait & Tackle........................................................ 9 361-992-2960

Tackle Box...................................................................85 361-575-8700

Victoria All Sports...................................................... 65 361-575-0655

Real Estate Sea Watch Realty.........................................................87 956-944-2800

South Padre Island Golf Club........................................32 888-943-3622

Shows: Outdoor - Fishing Houston Fishing Show..................................................63 713-853-8000

Texas International Boat Show....................................35 561-842-8808

Tournaments IFA Redfish Tour............................................................71 418-788-8871

Speedy Stop Bash Tournament Series......................... 59 361-587-5100

Miscellaneous 98.7 Texas Mix.............................................................98 361-573-7223

Aventura Jewelry..........................................................45 713-932-0002

Coastal Creations Taxidermy........................................85 888-737-5452

Coastal Kayak Angler...................................................54

800-466-5862

Texas Marine............................................................... 77 409-898-7632

Texas Tackle Factory....................................................45

Sufix............................................................................25 336-605-1950

February 2008

Fisherman’s Network....................................................85 512-363-9032

Graphics By Design..................................................... 83 361-785-4282

Mission Wall Systems................................................ 43 888-572-0097

43 Port Mansfield Chamber Of Commerce............................

956-944-2354

Saltwater Fishing Clinics.............................................. 79 361-563-1160

Speedy Stop...............................................Solunar Chart 361-582-5100

Texas Saltwater Fishing

99

100

Texas Saltwater Fishing

February 2008

www.TSFMAG.com

Just Keep Five