Ebb & Flow

More Biting Than Fish

By Trey Leggett

Trey's favorite fishing companion. [Editor's Note: I was hoping for a photo of Trey in an ostrich feather hat!] Photo by Mary Keim

The weather has heated up enough to warm up the inshore fishing waters to an optimal temperature. Speckled trout are very active, reds are smacking topwater lures, and flounder are chewing on anything that comes near them.

You load up the fishing gear and head out to your favorite honey hole with visions of a limited-out excursion. You position the boat perfectly, bait your hook, and make a cast that makes you grin with anticipation of a quick bite. Then it happens. That infamous yellow fly lands on your exposed ankle or neck and sinks in for the bite you wanted from the fish.

In my 30 years in Georgia, I’ve yet to find a more formidable fishing pest due to its inflicted pain, determination, and ability to attack when you least expect it. I consider myself a tough guy, but when two or three yellow flies are on the warpath, you’ll see me flailing my arms wildly, running around the boat, cursing like a seasoned sailor, and probably moving locations. Those yellow sons o’ guns can ruin a day out on the water quickly.

Don’t fret though, there’s a couple different ways to combat those pesky suckers. My favorite way to fend off flying Satan flies is to spray myself down with No Mosquitoes spray. It’s organic and doesn’t contain Deet, but it sure does work well. I spray it on any exposed skin and rub it in. I really believe that rubbing it in provides a better layer of protection. If you get in the water or sweat, you’ll need to re-apply the spray every hour or two.

Another alternative is any mosquito-type spray that contains Deet. If you’re sensitive to Deet or the smell of the No Mosquitoes spray, you can always wear lightweight fishing pants, a lightweight and light-colored long sleeve shirt, and a hat. I’ve read that wearing a large feather (ostrich or turkey) attracts the nuisance flies to the feather above your head rather than your skin.

Depending on the location where you’re fishing, you can be inundated with swarms of mosquitoes in the early mornings or late evenings, too. It seems like those barrier island mosquitoes are just a bit meaner and more tenacious than the civilized inland variety. Use the same above tips to make your fishing experience better.

Keep in mind that mosquitoes can carry West Nile and other viruses. Insect bites can affect folks differently, especially children, and the more “experienced in age” folks. Many people are allergic to insect bites, which can lead to swelling, painful bite sites, and potential sickness. Take care and make protection against biting and stinging insects part of your regular fishing gear.

Have fun this summer by keeping the pests at bay

Stay safe and tight lines.

Trey Leggett is an outdoorsman sponsored by Engel Coolers and Hobie Polarized sunglasses. Email: info@southerntidesmagazine.com