Keep An Open Mind 2/23/23.

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

  Inc.

Happy Birthday to the Boss.  My best friend for 35 years, I could not have gotten any luckier.  

Weather

82/68.  Partly cloudy skies during the morning hours will become overcast in the afternoon. High 82F. Winds SE at 10 to 15 mph.

Lake Level

Yesterday 96.43 msl.   Today 96.44 msl.

Bite Times

Major 2:41 pm to 4:41 pm.   Minor 8:42 am to 9:42 am.

It was just cracking daylight when I dropped the boat in the lake.  The water temp made some serious progress and was at least 65 degrees everywhere and then I found some 69, more on that later.  The plan was to fish the Controlled Descent Jerk Shand and the silver spoon with a 4″ Ice Knockin Tail, and I stuck with that all day until everything changed.

************** 

wade-right-300x50The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

*************

The Boss always wants a catfish so here you go.

They were biting from the moment I started but there was a problem, I could not catch a good one.  I hit all the “good” spots and caught them everywhere.  Whether the jerk shad, spoon and Knockin Tail or swim jig it was small after small.  I was starting to get a little frustrated.  Don’t get me wrong they were biting.  It seemed impossible that a real one did not jump either of those 2 baits way off the bank, which happens a lot with both those baits.  At least the catfish smoked the swim jig.   It was a little after noon and I had caught an easy 15  – 20 but just could not buy a big bite.  Then I got in a shallow cove with brush and finally decided to change up when I saw the water temp was almost 70.  Since the good ones were not cooperating it was time for a change so with the water temp like it was the buzzbait made sense.

This one absolutely jumped all over the buzzbait and the bite was on.

It was not more than 5 casts when the first one jumped it.  I was using a 1/8th with a gold blade (Jake) and a hand tied deer hair skirt.  It is easy to tie when the skirt needs replacing and last way longer than a regular skirt.  They wanted it at a moderate retrieve, and after my morning they were definitely not in the mood for a big chase.  But there was a couple of mandatories to make it work.

It was good for a couple of hours.

The bank had to be fairly shallow with isolated bushes, and several of the 10 or so hit way off the bank, (Where I kept expecting them to eat the other baits.) then a couple with the bait running right in a thick bit of cover.  Coves were the best and it is always a good omen when there are gators sunning, and the big one I saw today was a dinosaur.  Plus 2 little ones came out looking for the buzzbait so it was definitely warm.  The thing it could NOT be was windy.

Just to check them out I did fish a couple of banks where I catch giants at daylight, but the wind was on them.  They were not having it.  But a flat shallow bank in a cove with cover and out of the wind would get me bit.  This usually starts in March, but this heatwave has got them moving.  Of course, they are about to go nuts hitting the bank to spawn and I am headed out of town.  It is about to take off and there are lots of ways to catch them, one bait I would throw right now is a pink trick worm.  With them about to go on the beds but not wanting to chase the worm can be deadly.  Just twitch it along and then let it fall where you can just see it, dropping it by any cover.  And a good topwater or minnow bait will also catch them right now.  But no matter what you like to fish have at it, the bite is on.

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TPWD is seeking input on the  freshwater fishing regulations for 2023 – 2024.  There are plenty of proposed changes so here is your chance.  Whether they pertain to you or your specific fishing take a look, you just might have an opinion.  And if folks do not participate TPWD will do what it wants, which does not automatically make it right or the best thing to do.  When given the opportunity and we do not participate we have no complaint.

News Release: Feb. 21, 2023: TPWD Seeks Input on Texas Freshwater Fishing Regulation Proposals for 2023–24 – TPWD

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Since I am headed back to Colorado in a couple of days not sure if I will fish any tomorrow.  Have some packing and organizing to do along with the lawn and all that other stuff so it will be ok until I get back.  The Boss is going to join me for a week then back for some April fishing,  But who knows might get after my jobs in the morning and then give it one last go, depending on the wind.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

Posted in Fish Catching Travel | Comments Off on Keep An Open Mind 2/23/23.

The Lake 2/22/23.

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

  Inc.

As I prep this it is Monday afternoon and we just got back from Austin.  The Boss was wanting to order a new 4 Runner but that did not go so well.  It looks like what she is wanting would be 12 months.  That from the number 1 dealer in the Gulf South.  They currently have a waiting list for the cool ones but she did give us potential close options and would let us know.  But no matter what it ain’t happening anytime soon.

Unfortunately have a meeting at 2:00 tomorrow so will at least get out at daylight and fish for 5 hours give or take.  Of course the wind is going to be blowing 25 – 30 and higher so would not want to miss that.  But it is spring so hoping for a good bite.  Looking back on last year this time it was big fish on spinnerbait but it will be hard to put down the swim jig,

Oops

Up early and out to hook up the boat Tuesday morning.  After hooking up went back to the boat and did my usual, turn the key, and not a sound.  Zip, nada, I am not going anywhere.  Not sure what was on but must have had the key turned and did not notice when I quit and then when I tried to start it.  With an appointment later decided to put the battery on charge then let it sit to be sure it was just a discharge and not a failure.  Looks good so off I go in the morning,  It happens, why I always turn the key before pulling out of the driveway.

Quite a few gators enjoying the weather.

Weather

88/66.  Sun and a few passing clouds. High 88F. Winds SSW at 15 to 25 mph.

Lake Level

Today 96.43 msl.   Law Wednesday 96.41 msl.

Bite Times

Major  1:07 pm to 3:07 pm.   Minor  8:11 am to 9:11 am.

************** 

wade-right-300x50The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

*************

I am going to start with 2 fish.  They are not particularly much but it sure was informative.  Sometimes it just take a minute to sink into my pea brain but tomorrow has real possibilities.

Silver spoon and 4″ White Ice Knockin Tail trailer.

My day started off just as bad as yesterday but at least the starting battery was ok.  Checked the trailer lights and great, no taillights.  Have brake and turn lights but could not get the taillights to work.  As it was already daylight I went ahead and went to the lake.  Leave the problem until tonight when I get home.  The wind was howling, the water temp was 65 to 68 everywhere.  But the color sucks in many places, probably the result of our winds the last week.

To make a long story short it was slow.  I fished spots that are go to and it was just slow.  4 on spinnerbait, 5 on swim jig, and 1 on crankbait.  They were just not where I thought they might be.  It went like that all morning, one small here, one small there.  I finally was going to give it up when I had a small epiphany and out came the silver spoon with a Knockin Tail trailer.  I wanted to check a couple of pockets that I fished this morning and caught 1.

They are small pockets with brush and I used it just like last year, throw it to the bank and over the crap and bang it through there where you can just see it.   Then keep it just below the surface letting it wobble on the way in.   In less than an hour in 2 small places on the way in 5 jumped on and I missed a couple of more.  One even blasted it right by the boat which was a cool bite.  They really liked it during this period last year and looks like it will be on.

The back ends of the cover are full of tilapia mudding up the joint.  I hate to see them up when the spawn is about to happen.  Not sure when the next full moon but expect the bass to start big time.  I will be heading out this weekend so will definitely bang away on them for the next couple of days.

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Congrats to Colton Knipling and his partners for a solid showing in the first tournament 0f the Saltwater Legends Series.  They place 5th which easily keeps them in the Team of the Year running.  Colton added a nice 7.7 lb trout on day 2 which was a big help.  (I am always impressed these guys can call up 7 -8lb trout when they need one.)  So good luck the rest of the way, successful tournament fishing is tough no matter the fish, and takes dedicated time, effort, and money.

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Lake OH Ivie just recorded its 9th ShareLunker over 13 pounds this spring.  All I have to say about that is a big WOW!

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On the way to the lake stopped at the light on Zack Lenz and Cuero highway.  The light was red and there is room for 2 cars on the other side of the track.  I pulled up to the line on the others side and waited as there was tons of traffic.  Then the dumbest thing I have seen in many moons.  A white Volkswagen with a lady driving and 3 kids in the car gets between me and the 2 other cars.  She is now literally on the tracks trapped.  Lady, I don’t care if you jump off a bridge or stick a bean up your nose, but stopping on a track which is used regularly with children in the car is irresponsible and stupid, you should be ashamed.  Definitely can tell you have never been to a train/car killing or you would never do such am ignorant thing.

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I will be up and gone first thing in the morning.  After that little flurry today I have a little confidence and look forward to giving it a serious go.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

*************

Legal News

I am happy to report that our felony indicted Texas Attorney General, Ken Paxton has agreed to a settlement in the matter of the 4 attorneys from his office he verbally trashed and fired.  They reported possible illegal activity surrounding an affair and special treatment for a rich guy donor of his.  He has said he will pay them $3.3 million dollars of YOUR tax dollars to settle something “he did not do.”  He also has open felony fraud charges, and the investigation of the above matter has now been taken over by the Justice Department, and almost forgot he is also dealing with a complaint by the state bar.  Attorney General – you must be kidding me!  Congratulations Texas taxpayers we might be the biggest patsies alive.

************

Posted in Fish Catching Travel | Comments Off on The Lake 2/22/23.

The Bite is On! 2/15/23.

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

  Inc.

It feels strange to sit here thinking about tomorrow and the hope is the wind stays below 25mph.  Can’t wish for dead calm that is not the Texas way this time of year.  But in general conditons are the best I could hope for and as long as I am not to limited on where I can fish it could be one of those days.  Like all fishermen hope springs eternal.

Weather

89/59.  Showers in the morning, then cloudy in the afternoon. High near 80F. Winds SSE at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 40%. Higher wind gusts possible.

Lake Level

Monday 96.44 msl.   Today 96.44.

Bite Time

Major 7:05 am to 9:04 am.  Minor.  12:29 pm to 1:29 am.

 

************** 

wade-right-300x50The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

**************

What a difference a day makes.  2 days ago the bite was slower but I did put 2 big fish over the side, today was a different story.  The water temp was at least 65 over most of the lake and I did find one area where it was 66.  The wind was blowing but it was fishable and started off with a bang.

On the way to my first spot did an impromptu stop in a flat cove and the bite was on.  They are all small but I put 6 over the side in that first spot.  The bonus for me was 3 were on spinnerbait, the first this spring.  Before I quit I hit several little wolf packs of small guys.  It only took that place to realize that the sunny and warm day yesterday had them on the move.  From that point on other than a couple of places everywhere I fished they bit.

This was the best of the morning.

Basically, if there was a pocket slow rolling the swim jig and Rage Craw would get you bit.  Both big fish came in that type of place but today there might be a a couple of smaller fish.  The boys have hit the bank and as long as we don’t have to ugly a cold front, it is projected to potentially blow over 40 out of the north and be about 30 degrees cooler than today, it should stay good.  With the boys coming the good fishing is about to start.  After this little blow it will be back to southerly winds and warm temps, can you say spawning?

A few this size, the rest smaller but it was fun.

The first place this morning I was throwing a swim jig with the new Rogue color Knockin Tail trailer.  They seemed to just nip at it so went back to the Rage Craw and they definitely liked it better.  Bigger wide thump is a little more their speed right now but that will change.  They appear to be on crawdads as opposed to shad but I did run in to a few back in a cove and caught 2 bass out of them.  The tilapia have really moved to the coves and if you like bow fishing now is the time on Coleto.  In fact, please come and shoot a couple million of them.

Under normal circumstances I would be complaining but this time of year today was a good thing.  Once they get like this you can catch a bunch and still have a real good shot at a big one.  Time to get out the Bang O Lure and the Controlled Descent Pearl Jerk Shad.  The jerk shad has been consistent for me this time of year and a slow walk the dog right below the surface will get some big bites for those of you fluke guys.  It was an easy 20 today and one thing you can say when it is like that, it keeps you on your toes.

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For those of us that are bass fishermen this spring has been amazing as far as the ShareLunker program.  The big fish over 13 lbs have come in regularly and now the largest bass caught in Texas in the last 30 years, and I think Texas #2 all time, a 17.06 has been taken from O.H. Ivie.  It has been a steady stream of big fish from O.H. Ivie as fishermen from all over the country come hoping for a big one, and 17+ qualifies!  Lake Alan Henry joined O.H. Ivie and Nacogdoches producing a big fish.  What a year.

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A good start to my day was meeting Johnny at the ramp.  A steady tournament fisherman we have often traded info.  This morning he laid a bag of jerky on me, and like the last batch it was good stuff.  Thanks Johnny, it was a harbinger of a good day to come.

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Looking at the forecast it is not looking to good for tomorrow.  But depending on what I see in the morning who knows, hate to not go when they are biting like this.  I am a little sick of the wind but complaining changes nothing, it is what it is.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

Posted in Fish Catching Travel | Comments Off on The Bite is On! 2/15/23.

That Was Interesting. 2/13/23.

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

  Inc.

Was not sure where I was fishing today until I saw the forecast which had bass written all over it.  When I dropped in at 8:00 it was almost dead calm, and the water temp was unchanged from Friday.  The highest I saw was 65 and the rest was in the low 60’s.  The watercolor just depends on where you were, but it is cloudier up lake than down, but once the wind started blowing it was here and there.

Weather

Cloudy skies. High 71F.   Almost dead calm until 9:30 and then it cranked up 15 – 25 out of the ESE. 

Lake Level

Today 96.44 msl.   Friday 96.55.

Bite Time

Minor.  10:55 am to 11:55 am.

************** 

wade-right-300x50The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

**************

This girl just got on with no real “bite”,

I told the Boss it was going to be swim jig all day, and other than a couple of quick tosses with the A Rig and Knockin Tail, which produced 1 small bass and one pass with a crankbait I stuck with it.  The only place I tossed a crankbait a second blue cat smoked it.  From 8:00 until I quit at 2:00 I stayed with the jig, and though the numbers were not as good as Friday it was an easy dozen today, worth the effort.

This one smacked it.  Why I go every chance I get right now.  A real big one is in my future.

I wish I was able to give you a definitive pattern, but there is not one.  Points, coves, flat brush banks all produced a fish or two, but there was no real run today.  The one above came out of a shallow pocket with the wind blowing in it, the first one came on a classic pre-spawn secondary point, right where she was supposed to be.

There will be a few blues the next month or so, very aggressive.  This one slammed the swim jig.

The other day I met a guy at the cleaning table, and they are catching lots of cats on trotline and soap.  When they first start showing up they go shallow and are feeding up a storm.  That early spring pattern for cats has been consistent no matter where I have fished from Arkansas to Falcon.  So, if you are looking for a fish fry now is the time.  And to add to that they are catching crappie right now, so the bite is on.

And they are not shy about eating a crankbait.

You have to give the blue cats props, they hit hard and fight hard.  Today was a “get the net day”, I do not use one much but it did get a workout today.  Wish I had the cooler along, they would have made the grease.

N0t as many of these today.

I am using a 1/4oz pumpkin green looking swim jig, today with a watermelon red Rage Craw and reeling it at a steady speed on 12lb line.  Basically stopping it occasionally and letting it fall to the bottom just to be sure it is close.  It is not the fastest way to fish by any means, and of all the baits it requires the most concentration.  As they will track along with it occasionally a twitch may provoke a bite.  Right now just a steady retrieve and never taking my eyes off the line where it goes in the water, in case they slack line it or it starts moving sideways, which is a common happenstance.  When it is all said and done it will catch good fish from now through the spawn.

Not sure what or where is next.  Watching the weather as I write this the wind is forecast to blow 28mph out of the SE tonight and 30+ tomorrow, so guess will just see what is up in the morning.  Everything is ready to go in case it is fishable, but welcome to early spring on the coast.  No matter what I will keep after it, when you can catch this size and larger it makes getting up early a lot easier.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

Posted in Fish Catching Travel | Comments Off on That Was Interesting. 2/13/23.

Surprisingly Good. 2/10/23.

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

  Inc.

There was no question it would blow, and it was tough to handle.  The kind of wind that gets around every corner and of course seriously limits where you can fish.  When I got to the ramp at 8:00 the wind was pounding right on the ramp, it was 41 degrees and there was not a truck in sight.  But there were a couple of good signs, it came up just a hair, and it was at least 3 – 4 degrees warmer than Monday.  So, on went the big boy pants and up lake I went,  At least I could fish my way back down because there was no going against the wind,

Weather

Sunny skies. High 61F.   Blowing like mad out of the north.  It never got below 15 mph but spent most of the morning blowing a tough 20+ out of the North.

 Lake Level

Monday 96.48 msl.   Today  96.55.

Bite Time

Minor.  9:22 am to 10:22 am.

************** 

wade-right-300x50The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

**************

What pre-spawn fishing is all about.

The water color varies from off color to clear and was very wind dependent today.  But that made no difference to the bite, if you could get just a little out of the wind you would get bit.  Starting with the green swim jig and green craw I stuck with it all morning, and other than throwing a crankbait on one bank stuck with the jig all day.  But that is what they wanted and no reason to mess around.  They wanted it on a slow/steady retrieve and my guess it was running about 3 foot deep.  On the last place the fish tore off my craw, which was a Rage Menace.  I changed to a Rage Craw and did not get another bite.  Not sure that was the resason but the Menance has a tighter wiggle than the Craw, something to work on next trip,

With the wind bowing the line of the 17 boated this morning I actually felt maybe 3 or 4.  The rest just swam with it or even slacked it some.  One time all that swim jig fishing really paid off as I got the hook in several that never gave any indication of a bite.  Basically, muscle memory telling my mind to set the hook.  Bass love to track a swim jig, and today they were eating it while coming with it.  A tricky little bite but very consistent this time of year.

The one on the right is a good representative of size this morning.

But the very best thing, the boys are coming to the bank.  No doubt that yesterday’s warm temps really got them moving and unless we have some weather catastrophe the good fishing is on the way.  Not sure how many different places I fished but only 1 or 2 did not give up a fish.  They were positioned in classic pre-spawn places to bad I could not get to many of those places that I am sure would have had fish.

So the morning was a real success considering.  Things are about to bust loose on the lake and get one of those cloudy days with lighter winds and a person could have one of those days.  The next week’s fishing will be straight up dictated by the wind.  And that is what makes spring fishing what it is.  Pick you poison fresh or salt, go if you get the chance.  The next couple of months are prime time, and I go every chance I get.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.  Have a great weekend.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

Posted in Fish Catching Travel | Comments Off on Surprisingly Good. 2/10/23.

Catching a few trout. 2/9/23.

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

  Inc.

It was one nice morning.

The last 2 days they really did miss the forecast.  We got little rain and the wind ended up not blowing quite as hard as they said.  This morning ((Wednesday) we had a quick shower with big thunder, but it has calmed down.  Tomorrow the weather looks perfect for some bay fishing.  I have not quite made up my mind where to go, but the truck is hooked up and the salt stuff is ready.  It might be a little nippy in the morning but from the looks of the rest of the day it has potential.

Weather

40/74.  Sunny skies. High 74F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph with a 10% chance of a shower.

Tides 

High 5:17 am 0.0   Low 1:57 pm -0.4.   

Bite Time

Minor.  8:56 am to 9:56 am.   Major.  2:34 pm to 4:34 am.

************** 

wade-right-300x50The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

**************

The Pearl 5″ Knocking Tail with a liitle hot head added.

It was still dark when I got to Froggies aand the air temp was 41.  There were only 4 trucks in the lot, of course it was jammed when I quit at 1:30.  There was only a breath of wind, the water was supper clear and in the low 60’s.  Since it has been a while since I was on the bay, I decided to boat fish today just to check my usual milk run and just see what they might be eating.  It was not fast by any means, but I did get in on one good bite before I quit.

What most of them looked like this morning.\

Definitely wanted to check out the channel banks in Big Bayou and then hit the Oil Cut.  The first pass on my favorite bank produced 4 or 5, all small, but at least there was a bite.  Starting with the Purple Demon I was getting a few bites but nothing to get excited about.  But there was no water moving, and even the high tide was not all that high and the water was as clear as I have seen in a while.  Plus I picked up a dolphin and her baby for fishing partners and the bite stopped.  So with not much happening headed to the Oil Cut.

One on the Coastal Marsh corky.  Most on the Pearl 5″ Knockin Tail with an added hot head.

The water was just not doing anything so the results in the Oil Cut were in line with that.  I think it was 5 or so in there, but they were all small.  I did take a little time out of trout fishing to chase a red or two but never did have a bite all morning.  Then about 11:00 the water started moving so I headed back to my favorite bank in Big Bayou and it was game on.

It took me a bit to figure out how they wanted it.  I was definitely fishing it way to aggressive so time to slow down.  Sticking with the 4″ Pearl hot head on a 1/8th jig head I ended up just basically dragging it in really small hops letting it fall down the drops.  From that point on not sure how many came over the side in that last place but it was consistent for a good hour.

Amazing what a little permant magic marker can do.  They loved it.

There was one little anomaly, while they wanted the Knockin Tail barely moved they would take a pass at the Coastal Marsh corky jerked right along.  3 managed to get hooked and at least that many took a pass at it without hooking up.  But fishing it over deep water is not exactly the norm for a corky but I was interested in whether they would eat it, which a few did.  Bodes well for next week.

While one day is not a good indication of what the bay will produce this year but it looks like the numbers of 13 – 16″ trout are up, so it seems a good indicator of things to come.  But it sure did pique my interest as the fishing was ok today, so time to jump in and see how it goes next week.  It was good to be back catching some trout and hope to go several times in the next week or so before I head back to my happy place.

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Michael will be at the Line Cutters fishing show this Saturday introducing a new color to the Knockin Tail line.  It will be available in the new Rogue color and some will be given as door prizes.  A chance to get some before they are available to the rest of the world. I have not seen one yet but can’t wait to get my paws on some.  There will be tons of stuff for the kids to do, eats, music, plus plenty of fishing stuff at their West Columbia store.  So if you are out and about in the area stop in and spend some money.  Plus, their line cutter is a great addition to the console, amazing how sharp it is.

Line Cutterz – Patented Fishing Line Cutters & Innovative Fishing Gear

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 Got the new Rogue  color Knockin Tail in the mailbox when I get home.  Can’t wait to see it in the water.  After the mornings results will be headed back to the bay next week.  Besides the new color will be testing some jig heads to see how eye durability holds up.  Nice to have a little something to work on, adds some meaning to the day,

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Tomorrow it will be back to the lake.  Of course, the wind will return, couldn’t have a few days in a row of low winds, it would not be Texas.  And then tomorrow night back into the low 30’s.  Now that the weather has stabilized at least a little it will be back at it.  Hopefully the lake will improve, or at least my fishing, but if not, it will be back to the bay.  So, keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

Posted in Fish Catching Travel | Comments Off on Catching a few trout. 2/9/23.

Google would have been better. 2/6/2023. . .

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

Inc.

Did a thorough cleaning on the boat and organized equipment this weekend.  Hopefully this warming trend will get those fish biting some.  Of course, there is always a trade off in the spring with our high winds, and tomorrow is no different.  I can honestly say that when I head out in the morning I have no pre-conceived judgement on what to expect.  Unless some pattern emerges fairly quickly it will be another day of throwing the book at them and seeing what sticks.

Weather

55/75.  Partly cloudy skies. High near 75F. Winds SSE at 15 to 25 mph. Higher wind gusts possible with a 10% chance of rain.

Lake Level

Friday 96.49 msl.   Today 96,48 msl.   

Bite Time

Minor.  7:29 am.

************** 

wade-right-300x50The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

**************

Guess I should have Googled the best bait for the day and it would not have been worse.  To make a long (12-13″) story short it was a slight improvement in numbers but keepers were hard to come by.

The lake is stable, the color is improving, and the wind was not helpful like I hoped it would be.  Friday it was 48 degrees way up lake, today 57.  The rest of the lake was basically low 60’s with a slight tinge of color.

The punch line:  5 on A Rig with Knockin Tails, 4 on the Honeydew Knockin Tail on a quarter once jig head, 4 on stick worm, and 1 each on a swim jig and crankbait.  The sad state of affairs only one was 15″ (To bad for him.) and the rest were really short.  In keeping with my pledge of a few months ago there will be less pictures unless they are good ones or have a story to go with it.  So here is a picture that is worth showing.

Michael with a really nice red snapper.  Yummmm….

The morning started off with a hopeful small flurry, ended up catching 3 smalls in big coves as it was so foggy I couldn’t get up lake.  As soon as it cleared up lake I went to check on the white bass and just fish.   I just might have missed the white bass run.  Though the water temp was up, until heading back down lake not a bite.  The water color up lake is still somewhat ugly.  Basically, pounded the good spots until around 10:00 am when the wind got up.  And it stayed up most of the morning.

I did stop at the discharge but without real power generating the water temp was only a couple of degrees above the main lake.  Normally do not fish there but wondered if they might be there and they were, 4 shorts.  From that point on alternated between the usual suspects, but even the A Rig with 5 pearl 4″ Knocking tail caught midgets.

I fished spinnervbait on windy banks but they were definitely not having it.  I did catch 6 of the total off one channel bank, 4 on Honeydew, then 1 on a crankbait and the only fish that measured on the A Rig by re-fishing it.  No matter where I fished the good ones have just not moved up yet, though with tilapia showing up in the coves the bass will not be far behind.  One thing that should have happened did not, there was no warmer water in the back end of the coves which surprised me.

In the end the numbers were up, all small males heading up, the big girls should not be far behind.  With a couple of days of rain and sketchy weather it could help or hurt, depending on the temperature of the rain.

At this point I am just not sure what or where I should have been fishing.  But the one consolation today, a fish fry for the Boss.  She is highly allergic to shrimp, so I had my shrimp dinner, and she got her own fish fry.  All is right with the world.

**************

Just a heads up on the Saltwater Legends tournament.  Here is the schedule so plan accordingly.

May be an image of text that says '2023 SERIES STOPS FEBRUARY 16 18 PORT ARANSAS,TX MARCH 23-25 PORT O'CONNOR,TX APRIL 13-15 CORPUS CHRISTI,TX ONLINE REGISTRATION OPENS JANUARY 2023 WWW.SWLEGENDSERIES.COM'

And good luck to Colton and his dad Pat as they will have 2 sponsored teams this year.  Colton and his team won last year and if I had to lay money on it the Kniplings would get my bet.  So good luck to all and be safe out there.  And for the rest of you: Think you are a great saltwater guy step up to the plate, fishing against these boys is fishing with the best.

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According to the weather dude the next 2 days are going to be pretty sketchy.  So will do some responsible stuff and if it works out will be the bay on Thursday.  Definitely playing by ear right now but no matter what it will be back on the water.  And who knows. I just might catch a few more, it is spring.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

Posted in Fish Catching Travel | Comments Off on Google would have been better. 2/6/2023. . .

Ok – Took My Whipping Like a Man 2/4/2023.

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

Inc.

After a week waiting for the weather to straighten up some I was on the water at 9:00.  It was cloudy and the wind was still blowing that steady 15+ out of the north and it would continue all day until I finally called no mas at 3:00.

Weather

34/57.  A few clouds from time to time. High 57F. Winds N at 10 to 15 mph with a 6% chance of rain.

Lake Level

Today 96.49 msl.   Exactly 1 Month Ago 95.59 msl.   (Up almost a foot!)

Bite Time

Major.  3:19 pm.

************** 

wade-right-300x50The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

**************

The water has definitely come up a good bit at the lake, and it bodes well for next week.  It has worked its way back into some of the shoreline cover but it definitely has some color.  The water temp at the ramp was 57 degrees and there was not a truck at the ramp, and after fishing I know why.  First up headed all the way up lake to see how conditions were, and they were ugly.

Way up lake it the water was 47 degrees and the color was almost muddy.  I definitely stayed to long but wanted to see if there was a way to catch them, but if there was I sure did not figure it out.  I hoped the white bass might be biting but no such luck.  So while I did not get a bite with the forecast the next few days it should really get going.  They will hit the banks in mass soon and I look forward to Monday.

Here is exactly what all 5 of them looked like.

So here is what worked – 4″ Honeydew Knockin Tail was the only thing I could get a bite on.  They all came down lake in the clearer water on points.  It seemed like pull up on a deeper point and catch or miss one, then nothing.  This pattern held the whole time I fished but nothing else produced even the hint of a bite.

So here is what did not work – A Rig, jerk bait, swim jig, crankbait, and the kitchen sink.  In reality none of that is really surprising considering the conditions the last week or so.  I covered lots of water from way up lake to the plant arm, basically fishing all the “sure” spots and just could not get it going.

But there is a silver lining that sets us up for a big bite.  With the weather gettting back in the 70’s this week expect them to come to the bank in mass over the next week or so.  It is pre-spawn and nothing short of a massive flood will stop that from happening.  So it was good to be back in the boat and starting Monday it will be full on fishing.  Today will be cleaning the boat, getting equipment and tackle organized for both fresh and salt.  Let the fishing begin, who knows might even start catching them.

*************

This from Randy after I bitched about what crap the 2 KastKing reels I bought were and how they ignored my complaints.

Doug Coppernoll the fish that broke their “Katfish rod” was a sunfish. They have horrible customer service. After calling and emailing daily for over a month I was finally told to send the rod back with $20. They would inspect it for damage and if it was a manufacturer default I could buy another one for half price. Soooo generous of them especially when they said it had a warranty on the website. At that point I would have over $100 in a cheaply made rod. NEVER again. Their “Rover” round reels sound like they have sand in them. The drag is all over the place. The tension knobs are just there for decoration. The spool free spins no matter how tight or loose the knobs were. It’s hard to find anything positive about this company.🤷

No photo description available.  (It was a small bluegill.)

Well there you have it, seems like customer service really is conditional on their whims.  Suffice to say that Kast King is off the table as far as I am concerned.  Buy at your own risk.  Thanks for letting us know.

*************

Got a call from my buddy Aaron who is headed to OH Ivey Thursday, so hope the roads are a little better by then.  But it will be interesting to see how they do.  Of course, the plan is to catch a really big fish, which that lake has as it continues to produce ShareLunkers and other fish in the 12+ range.  I don’t care who you are anything substantially over 10 is a lifetime accomplishment.  They have hired a guide day 1 which should give them a baseline, since Aaron is the real deal if anyone can get it done in 3 days it is Aaron.   The best overall fisherman I have ever shared a boat with.

It has been so interesting to watch as lakes in Texas rise and fall over the years.  Last decades hot spot is this years afterthought.  Falcon (Where I caught my 3 pb’s in 24 hours.) during its heyday had hundreds of trucks at the ramp, now you have it to yourself during the week.  Amistad the same.  Fork has held up to the pressure as well as any bass lake when you consider how close it is to DFW.  Now it is OH Ivey so we shall see how it holds up to the pressure but at this point it continues to produce world class largemouth bass.

**************

And this nice comment from Lee, a long-time reader.

Love reading your “new” reports of life in Colorado and hoping the Boss can join you soon. Looking forward to you chasing mountain streams and lakes and hoping for better fishing weather when you make it back to Texas. You’ve definitely got me thinking about life after the rat race. Congrats on the Colorado house!

Of course the minute I get back here the weather goes to crap.  But I am rested up and looking at the weather report for next week it will be fishing till I drop.  And as far as life after the rat race the day does come for all of us, from that point on what do you want out of life?  In our case it was access to public lands and wildlife, and the fishing of course.  The Boss is going to stick it out as long as she can until she retires.  At this point it looks like South Fork will be my home for the majority of the time especially as the fishing gets started out there.  Both of us will go back and forth until the day comes we hit the road for good.  Appreciate your support, thanks.

And on that note, I am looking for a 16 – 17-foot v hull aluminum.  A 25 hp give or take is about right as most of the lakes are smaller with no wake.  With many of the Colorado lakes off gravel roads time to reduce weight and simplify the fishing.  So if any of you hear or see such an animal let me know, will look at anything in that category but it must have titles.  Not interested in messing around with that.

*************

I know I said it before but I really feel like the lake bite is about to take off. And definitely want to get in some salt before I head back to my Happy Place.  So keeps stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

Posted in Fish Catching Travel | Comments Off on Ok – Took My Whipping Like a Man 2/4/2023.

No Go…Dang it! 1/31/2923.

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

Inc.

I went ahead and made the drive all the way back yesterday (Saturday), 16 hours.  I admit that is a haul, but it was one of those days where I just kept rolling and today get to reap the benefit of doing that.  See the Boss before she heads to work, get at least a little organized, look over the fishing stuff and boat looked over making sure it will be good to go first thing in the morning.

It will be interesting to see what is up with the lake fish.  The basic plan, A Rig with 4″ Knockin Tails and of course the 5″ Pearl slow rolled.  Both are great baits this time of year and if they do eat it they tend to be on the big size.  And who knows, maybe I did not miss the white bass run.  And a fresh fry sounds delicious.  Only way to know is to go and that will be the theme the next month or so.

Weather

48/53.  Rain showers early with overcast skies later in the day. High 52.  Winds NNE at 10 to 20 mph with a 40% chance of rain.

Lake Level

Today 96.47 msl.   Exactly 1 Month Ago 95.59 msl.   (Up almost a foot!)

Bite Time

Major.  12:04 pm.

************** 

wade-right-300x50The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

**************

The biggest reason beside the Boss that I came back was to fish, and that did not happen.  You can see from above that things did not look all that bad when I prepared this Sunday night.  When I headed to the lake Monday morning it became real apparent that I was biting off a little more than I could or wanted to chew.

When I got to the ramp at daylight the wind was blowing well over 20 mph directly on the ramp with big rollers, it was misting and the fog was thick.  It took exactly 1 minute out of the truck to realize there was no way that I was going to fish in that.  So I headed back to the house and called it a day.  Now it is Tuesday and things are not really looking up.  Unfortunately, it looks like it will be Thursday at the earliest before I will be fishing,  Hope the whole week is not lost but watching the weather channel they say more rain on the way tomorrow and if it is below freezing it will stay ugly over most of the state.   So that will do it for my first fishing report since coming back.  Not the way I wanted my week to go.

**************

Met a nice couple the other day who live in an area just a little farther out of town and they commented on the amount of wildlife in our neighborhood.  In fact, they occasionally drive through just to observe what is out and moving about. There are tons of stuff to see here every day.  They also said wait till the bears come out.  Ok.  Can’t wait.

This morning first thing a doe just blasted out of the back yard.  Then 2 really big bucks walked right down to the fence while I was talking to the Boss, and she got to see them on face time.  Later a dozen does came out and walked right along our fence as they headed to the neighborhood.  Every morning is something new.

Did learn from the neighbors that alongside our fence is the major game trail.  Not only has a lion been seen but they were eating on the porch with the former owners and the bear just walked right by them.  Really looking forward to spring.

*************

I got this comment from a reader.

I have hunted out of Southfork several times and always loved it. The wife and I have visited there several times also, including last summer. I envy you living there except for the prolonged cold. Looking forward to the fishing reports to start back, but enjoy the wildlife photos. Have a safe trip home.

One thing about living here/there, it is winter.  There are plenty of trade off’s no matter where we choose to live.  (Being retired makes the really cold weather not such a big deal.  Nothing a hot toddy and fire will not cure!)  We would not have made this area the choice, or anywhere else, without balancing everything, in other words the fishing.  If I had to make a guess there are literally hundreds of lakes in Colorado, dozens within a couple of hours of here, of course not taking into account miles of streams and creeks for flyfishing.  In the end the public access to woods and wildlife was the deciding factor.  There are enough back roads to last a lifetime with some of the greatest hikes in this country.  Add in some bears, sheep, moose, deer, and on and on it is my happy place.  On that note apparently there is a herd of Dall Sheep down the road which are rarely seen, can’t wait to see my first one.  And stay tuned the fishing is about to begin.  Thanks for commenting.

*************

Last I want to offer my condolences to the family of the young man who is missing after a barge collision near Charlie’s.  Running at night is dangerous no matter how you look at it.  So sad when you are talking a young man, way to early.  Sorry that had to happen to his family and friends.

**************

Well in spite of my best intentions it will be a few days before a real fishing report.  But rest assured that as soon as it settles down the fishing will resume.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

Posted in Fish Catching Travel | Comments Off on No Go…Dang it! 1/31/2923.

Last Colorado – For Now 1/25/2023.

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

Inc.

**************

They are one big fat beautiful bird.  Can’t wait until the gobbling begins.

The first month has really been an adventure.  Being here is all I thought it would be.  Starting my day is such a pleasure watching the morning turkey parade.  When you mix in a few mule deer it drives home that we really do live in the woods.  As the year progresses it will be interesting to see if the activity is the same or do many melt off into the woods until next winter.  Access to food is the big deal I am sure.  And speaking of access to food the prior owner did a certain amount of feeding, which unfortunately but correctly is illegal.  The practice will not continue in our yard, it is just not right to condition wild animals.

Yesterday I headed up the mountains to check on the sheep.  But just a few miles from the house some ewes crossed the road.  So I marked that area and continued on looking for the big herd, and the couple of herds of elk we saw last trip.  With the temp dropping into the low teens and alot more snow I was interested in how they react.  Once I got there I violated the cardinal rule when trying to photograph wildlife, take the shot.  I finally found them but to get a better shot, they were almost at the top of the ridge on the wrong side of the truck, I had to go a little until I could turn around.  But alas they made it over the ridge by time I got back.  And there was not an elk is sight.  Lesson learned.

Cool animals.

Looks like we are going to be a mama!

This bunch had several yearlings. 

But these guys were still out on the way home, though they too were headed back up the mountain.  No ram with them, or I just did not see him.  Several of the females looked like they were either pregnant or fat, though pregnant is probably the answer.  These were the closest I have seen to town yet.  It still thrills just like it did watching Wild World of Sports when I was a kid.  They are one majestic animal and I appreciate every chance I get to observe.

************** 

wade-right-300x50The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

**************

I am really getting familiar with the local mule deer.  There are obviously several homes that feed and there is a wide variety from first year young to big bucks.  It will be interesting as they start to shed.  Who knows we just might get lucky on our walk and gather a couple up.

They love this place.  Feeding them maybe?

On Guard!

I took several pictures with the ones above.  There were 4 bucks in a wad and I tried to get a pile of horns but they just did not come out right.  But it sure is nice getting plenty of opportunities to get some cool pictures.  Sooner or late the perfect picture will be blown up on the wall over the fireplace.

*************

I am so glad to see the government suing Google for all kinds of predatory practices.  So how did that affect the blog?  Early on when I was committed to the cause I would have as many as 750 or more visits per day.  Then the calls and emails started trying to sell me stuff, improve my rank, etc.  Basically, they strong arm you like the mob wanting to provide you “protection.”  As you know with me I ignored them and the result, they reduced my place in this online world and my numbers dropped immediately and precipitously.  Their punch line – play by our rules or else.  My response – F’ Off.  Hope they get their rearend kicked.

***************

And this question from SA Joe.

You mention IOWA…where abouts???

For me it was a small farm town, Mt Pleasant in the southeast corner of the state.  The Boss is from an even smaller town about 20 miles away, Mediapolis.  We actually did not meet until Arkansas.  But as proven time and time again, it is a small world and I admit I could not have gotten any luckier if I tried.

And from Rick.

Sounds like you’re getting settled in. I’m happy for you. I always look forward to your next post.
Rick

Thanks.  As far as getting settled that took exactly 1 minute.  As I said before rarely are we lucky enough to really get to achieve a dream, but it is actually happening.  And the fishing reports are about to resume.

*************

Will be heading back to Texas this weekend.  Really ambivalent about it but of course missing the Boss.  And the fishing will be a side bonus for the next month before I head back here.  Plus having the grandkids coming for a visit while I am there is a bonus, they always want the trip to Bubba’s for the boil.  Can’t wait until those city kids come out here and I can introduce them to the great outdoors.

The big project on returning will be getting the garage and shop built.  Nothing can really happen until the ground thaws as there is dirt work to be done but looks like the guy we will be working with is flexible and can start as soon as it does.   The project would be easier if there was not a rule, no loss of Aspen trees.  This place is stunning in the fall when the leaves turn, and that view is not up for discussion.

Then after that extravaganza the Boss wants a cool year-round hydroponic Geo Dome nestled amongst the aspens for year-round vegetables.  That will be interesting as she has proven over the years that there is no plant she cannot murder!  Sorry Boss but that is the tough reality.  Having a separate well will be a good thing when that is done.  But after that the line is drawn, no more projects.

The fishing reports will start next week, and I am looking forward to wetting a line.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

Posted in Fish Catching Travel | Comments Off on Last Colorado – For Now 1/25/2023.