FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

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Coleto Monday

Weather

70/81.  Cloudy. Periods of light rain early.  Winds SE at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 70%.

Lake Level

A week ago, 98.11.      Today 98.01.   (On a slow steady decline.)

Bite Times

Major 12:26 pm t0 2:46 pm.    Minor 6:27 am to 7:27 am.

**********The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

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

This is how it looked in Oklahoma City but not here.  I was really surprised that while I was fishing you could not tell it happened.  Weird.

I was hoping it was going to be good today, but it is becoming ground hog day.  I continue to catch a dozen give or take a few and just cannot get over the hump.  It was really cloudy, it drizzled off and on, and the wind was not near as high as they forecast.  The water temp was up to 72 – 74 degrees in most places but dang it will not clear and I am sure the falling water level is not helping any.

Swim jig.

First up was a bank in the plant arm, and only 2 jumped on.  But one thing that was apparent today, they were pounding the swim jig.  There was none of that nipping or taking a swipe at it, when they bit, they committed.  This bank should be way better than it was, but that seems to be the case all over the lake.  It is still hit or miss, and it seems when they are not there it is barren.

As it has been the swim jig continues to be the bait of choice.

This morning I tried to expand my presentations some, including the buzzbait and I added a frog.  Normally this time of year the buzzbait is primo but for some reason it is not working and the frog was worthless.  The best I can tell it must have something to do with the off-color water.  (It could not possibly be my fishing abilities!)  It would seem logical to expect the lake to be clearing but it just is not really happening.  And in some places the color has seemed to return.

The rest of the best.

And I continue to try other places, which maybe would produce 1 or 2 bites, but it seems there is tons of places that just do not have fish.  I put 9 in the boat in the first and third place, with a channel bank in a big cove producing 5 all on swim jig.  From there on it was one here or there, often nothing in some places.  With the weather projected to get rough I limited where I went until it became clear it was not really going to storm.

The Boss had requested a fish fry, so I went way up lake to troll up some supper when a weird thing happened.  Coleto is full of blue cats and over the years I have caught hundreds trolling.  While it is a rare occurrence in many lakes it seems to work fairly consistently on Coleto.  I chose way up hoping to maybe intercept a few whites on the way back from their spawn but that did not happen.  But on the first pass 2 small keeper blue cats jumped on so good start.  1 1/2 hours later not another bite.  I even went down lake and trolled the summertime areas without a bite.

I can honestly say that I can not figure out if it is me.  Though I try different places and techniques it is tough to figure it out.  With the amount of cover in the lake it just might be time to start flipping the tress and bushes up lake that have plenty of water on them.  If they are unwilling to chase it just might require putting it right on their nose.  But I am not giving up and it will be back at it in the morning.

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What a year for big bass in Texas.  This from TPWD.

ATHENS – O.H. Ivie added another Legacy Class ShareLunker during the final week of the 2024 Toyota ShareLunker collection season. Angler Tery Lewis of Lubbock reeled in 13.99-pound ShareLunker 669 Thursday to push O.H. Ivie’s season total to 12 and the statewide tally to 19. It proved to be the final Legacy Class entry for the 2024 collection season.

That is insane.  O.H.Ivie is on a run, and it appears that the chance of catching a 13lb plus is real.  Congrats to TPWD for introducing the stocking program that has produced these monsters.  And nothing gets nutty bass fisherman in a bigger frenzy to hitch the boat and travel than big bass.  So get it while it is hot as it will go the way of many lakes like Falcon and Amistad where the lots and ramps have gone from jammed full to empty.

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But the day would not be perfect without then ragging on TPWD.  I am so against exotics being introduced into the state in any form, of course basically speaking of high fence hunting.  So do not get your panties in a wad before reading this, I have no complaint with the owners of high fence.  They are following the law and deserve no criticism for importing exotics as long as the law is followed.  Same with the hunters if it is done legally it is none of our business.   There are plenty of folks who have disparate opinions on high fence hunting but as long as it is legal have at it.

My complaint is TPWD not ending the practice of exotic introduction.  A perfect example would be the Audad.  Introduced in Texas years ago for hunting they are now all over the place.  TPWD now actually flies over Big Bend and shoots them, and of course anytime they do the Bighorn sheep count on state lands some also get smoked.  If you have to fly over and shoot them then the introduction was a mistake, end of story.  You never know what the true consequences of any introduction of an exotic species might bring whether it runs, flies or swims.  We do not need any other exotics introduced into the state.

Now I am waiting to see if there will be any consequences to anyone who bought and imported the genetic freak rams that the guy in Montana sold here.   He is going to prison and getting fined a pile.  My contention is if you violate federal law like he did and use the results of that violation to produce the very thing the statute is designed to address then why is the state not hunting down each and every buyer?  Or at least the rams.  What next, they get loose and interbreed with our resident herd.  And don’t give me that bullshit nonsense it can’t happen and then in the same sentence tell me we have to shoot Audads.  The Audads just take up great sheep habitat, the genetics freaks could irreparably harm the Big Horn sheep herd in Texas forever.  I know this might not be clearly stated but I hope you get the point.  What next TPWD – rhinoceros?

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I had an interesting chat with a local guy who has lived with 10 miles of Victoria his whole life.  While talking about the new trout regs he immediately brought up croaker.  He could not have been anymore against fishing with them if he tried.  He said when he was a kid there were plenty of big ones they actually targeted for supper.  While part of his argument was that it is to “easy” to fish that way his real complaint was the use of them as bait has decimated the adult population.  I have heard that off and on for a while and often it is accompanied by the proposal to make them a game fish.  Interesting to see if that ever comes to anything.  And he also was not all that happy with the flounder rules.  For me anything that increases stocks and access is great.

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Razorbacks

There is a lot of things that I might have seen when I read the news before heading out this morning, but this was a shocker.  After the Arkansas coach headed to USC in a surprise move the Hogs announced that John Calipari would be leaving Kentucky for Arkansas.  His run was over and while Kentucky announced he would be back it was not working so him leaving saved them the $33 million buyout.  So what will happen how knows but with Arkansas not having any players on the roster only time will tell.  But it sure will be intersting.

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Today I have the pleasure of dealing with the Texas bureaucracy, time to renew the DL.  I have to prove I am me, though my DL is current and they were happy to give it to me 15 years ago.  First up is the lock box to get my passport and I already submitted my SSI number so that is done.  I have no hope it will go easy, nothing worse than the DL lady with an attitude.  So please surprise me and restore my faith in the bureaucracy but I am not holding my breath.  Sad when I have little faith in the people we pay to help us.

Other than that things are fine around here.  Love the new little boat, the $3-4  for all day gas is wonderful.  The Chandeliers are looming, and then back to Colorado and a completely new way to fish for me.  I am excited for the change, goes along with my what appears to be a 10 year attention span.  From the great Barrier Reef to the creek behind Grannie’s I have been there done that and am really looking forward to a new adventure.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

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What a great way to spend our 35th anniversary.  We love the parks and Big Bend is a special place in it’s own way.  Desert, mountains, a eclectic group of folks, it is our kind of place and we have always liked it there.  We wanted to be sure to get back before we moved and as usual it was worth the drive.

My home girl waiting.  Always good to be first in line at the Starlight, the food is actually good.

The Starlight restaurant is a must do in the ghost town of Terlingua and you have to get there early if you want to get in before starving to death.  They open at 5 and close at 10 and usually have some music.  But the porch above is a gathering place for watching the sunset, and if you are lucky the locals will be playing on the porch in the early afternoon.  Grab a cold Lone Star and enjoy just being alive.

We love staying in the container house.

The place we rented the last few trips is amazing.  He has built 4 container houses on the hill above the ghost town that are flat innovative.  The view is spectacular and when he built these he went first class for the desert.  There is one little issue, you better have a high clearance vehicle and  4 wheel can be nice.  The road is nothing but rocks and I mean rough, but the houses are at the end of the drive.  And at night watching the mountains as the sun sets is part of the draw.  Of all the places we have stayed in Big Bend this is top of the line.

The view from the house.

There is no way my limited talent can portray the awesome landscape.  It goes on forever.

We love Big Bend for what it is, the middle of nowhere that has stood the sands of time.  It is rugged, starkly beautiful, and old in a timeless way.  Whether the old inshore ocean in the east or the rugged and scenic mountains of the west it is massive.  It seems it is a crazy 50 miles by 50 miles.  Whether 4 wheeling the back roads or taking the paved stuff to the old towns or ruins there is a timeless history to these badlands.  (Note:  It drives me nuts when folks speed there.  You are not “going somewhere” you are there, and the sights of the geology is part of what makes this place what it is.)  Almost all the backroads are rough as cobs and if the maps say unimproved stay off, just saying.  I can only say a good suspension is a plus and leave your Tesla at the house unless you stay on pavement.

It totally depends on the rainfall what plants are in bloom.  We just missed it this year.

A few of the cactus had flowers and they are sure pretty.

While you think it is desert it holds a ton of cool plant life.  It is a tough world out there and only the strong survive.  But if you take the time to get out of the truck and walk a litte you never know what you will see.  There are tons of trails from easy to really tough but there are well marked.  One of the best we have done did not make this years list.  It is not on any map but it is where the bears hang in an oasis.  We were told that it is not on the map to hold down the foot traffic.  What appears to be so unforgiving, and it can be, is as sensitive as any place on the planet so tread lightly.

The deer sure are scraggly.  But the wildlife is a small part of the reason for visiting the park.

Tough shot as this coyote beat feet through the scrub.

As you all know we love chasing wildlife but the park is not know for the big stuff.  But this year we saw a road runner with a lizard in his beak, rabbits, a coyote and a couple of deer.  Unfortunately no peccary or as we call them is South Texas the Javelina or Audads.  (We learned from a ranger that the Feds have given the state permission to do helicopter fly overs and shoot them.)  We usual see some but not this trip, every trip is different and it is no more than a matter of timing and watching, as our trip out of the park at daylight revealed.  We also saw a couple of wild horses on our first days walk but they were spooky and hit the road.

We left the park after 6:00 or so and almost totaled another truck.  Of all things we come around the corner a few miles out of the park and there is a couple of bunches of wild donkeys on the road.  It was not all that close a call but was a reminder of what can happen traveling at that time of day, we are a little gun shy.  Then we saw a bunch of elk.  We knew they were transplanted back in the area a few years ago but today we saw a couple of dozen as the sun rose.

If half a mountain falls off does it make a sound if no one is there to hear it?

The park has been changing for eons and the change continues.  This huge chunk of the hillside just decided to slough off.  A testament to what made this place what it is and continues to be.  It is a geological happening for folks into rocks.  And they have put in a new fossil exhibit of stuff found in the park and it is well worth the stop.  There were some big ass dinosaurs, a couple found nowhere else.  But alike everything else in the park do not remove anything, and that is a hard rule.  As I said it is fragile and deserves respect.

Hanging out at the fossil exhibit watching the tourists.

Our last hike in the desert when we realize we only have half the water we should have had, it happens.  That is the old dang it looks like.

This is one of the easier hikes in the park, flat with a good trail.  When we left the truck I asked if she had the other water and got a yup back.  Water is the staff of life here and the plan, half in half out.  Luckily we had enough but lesson learned.  Use a check list when you head out, it is the desert and by time we got back to the truck it was 78, after the day started off a cool 48.  Trust me 78 degrees on the desert floor is hot.  But as long as you are prepared hiking is a trip back in time and the ground tells you a lot.  I am still looking for my first rattlesnake, just not that hard.

It is not possible to tell you everything you need to know about the park, there is a bunch to do and see, not to mention Terlingua and all that the freak zone is.  And you can visit the river and hot springs, or go across to the Mexican town.  So, if you have ever thought about going do your research, the trip is well worth the time.  But it is changing as more is built and the crowds grow.  It is so worth the trip but like many of the cool places in this world it is getting loved to death.  Show it the respect it deserves.

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LAST MONDAY – COLETO

Weather

70/82.  Cloudy and windy. Winds SSE at 20 to 30 mph. Higher wind gusts possible.

Lake Level

Today 98.11.      Last Friday 98.13.   (Definitely dropping and there is a big crane working on the dam so who knows.) 

Bite Times

Major 6:03 am t0 8:03 am.    Minor 11:23 am to 12:23 pm.

**********The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

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

Make this quick as I just got back from above.  There was almost no change in the fishing or the lake.  Lots of off color water and a real inconsistent pattern.

A nice swim jig fish on my second pass.

The swim jig continues to be the bait of choice at least for me.  The numbers today were ok compared to the last few trips.  It was a good dozen but I am stuck on a couple of places that seem to have a concentration, but others that normally this time of year have fish just don’t, and not sure why.

The best on spinnerbait for the morning.

But the good news is the majority of the fish have not spawned, at least their body size says there is still more to go.  I have a suspicion that they are not all that interested in the dirt banks right now, which means they have not moved to the new grassy areas yet.

So I am excited about fishing Monday, after a week off hopefully it has cleared some.  It just might be the best lake fishing is yet to come, only time will tell.

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The Boss and I both grew up in Iowa and have been watching the tournament religiously.  They won last night and while the call was a little sketchy it is never one call that beats you.  So good luck girls it has been a trip.

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As far as the eclipse it just might be to cloudy which will ruin it for lots of folks who really care.  How many?  As we drove left Fort Stockton on I10 to return home it was an endless stream of campers, most out of California.  It was so many we just could not figure out why until we got to Junction and everyone exited.  Turns out there is a big watch party there.  Hope it is not as cloudy as they forecast as it could be a big all about nothing.  I on the other hand will be fishing Coleto hoping for clouds but it not will just not look at it.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

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MONDAY

Weather

69/81.  Showers in the morning, then partly cloudy in the afternoon. Thunder possible. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 60%.

Lake Level

Current 98.21.      Friday 98.30.   (Hope they are not dropping it.)

Bite Times

Major 12:51pm to 2:51pm.       Minor 7:04am to 8:04am.

Long story short it sucked.  In fact from 7:30 until I quit at 2:00 exactly 4 came over the side, all on spinnerbait.  I knew the day was trouble when it started off cloudy first thing and in the first cove a big one came out and ate right at the boat.  It ended up being one of those not setting the hook because it all happened in an instant and she pulled off.  And during the day 2 good ones took a run at it when it went over a bush and flipped sideways and they just did not eat.  Unfortunately, it cleared off and blew out of the north and seemed to put a stop to the bite.

So at that point why not the Controlled Descent Jerk Shad, which did not produce a bite.  That was totally surprising, I figured slow and in their face.  To compound the days complete lack of aggression on their part I could not buy a bite on the swim jig.  Crazy as it has been the go to bait the last couple of weeks.  I ended up fishing plenty of “good” spots and several coves I have not fished in while with little success.  Maybe if I had stayed longer it would have improved but it was just time to give it up.

The water is still way off color in some areas, it definitely follows the wind and they just do not seem to really like it.  The temp is stuck in that 67 – 70 range and has changed little the last 2 weeks.  And there are plenty of fish who have not gone on the beds yet so we have them in all phases of the spawn right now.

And looking at Wednesday we should have at least some clouds at least of a while.  I am just not on them right now and will try a few new places and techniques to see if I can figure it out.  It is spring.  So tomorrow morning it will be back at it bright and early, they better look out, I will fish better.

**************The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

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

WEDNESDAY

Weather

50/70.  Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy in the afternoon. Winds NNE at 10 to 15 mph.  (Sure wish we were out of the north wind pattern.)

Lake Level

Monday 98.21.      Wednesday 98.21.

Bite Times

Major 2:13 pm to 4:13 pm.       Minor 7:54am to 8:54am.

At least it was a little bit better today.  It was cool and wind was definitely blowing out of the north and it was a biting wind.  And as it has been the water was colored up anywhere the wind blew right on it.  The water temp continues to hover in the high 60’s with little change over the last 2 weeks.

It was a pretty morning.

At least today the numbers were up but that wind was still keeping them to a dull roar.  But the first bank gave up 5 so the day was off to a good start.  Early it was a mix of spinnerbait and swim jig but after the really cold front blew through about 12:00 it was all swim jig.

This one ate the swim jig.

I did miss one big one on the swim jig when it did what a big fish will do, smacked it and charged the boat.  I never got a good hookset and she pulled off.  One thing was real clear today, the dozen plus that came over the side today and the ones I missed and lost all came right on the edge of cover.  Not back in it, not on isolated cover or weed patches.  They were scattered and right on the edge, the wind was so cold today, and last night was not warm, they just did not move real shallow today.

First and last.  They basically all looked like this.

One thing is real clear, they are not really interested in chasing.  Not sure what that is about but I will blame it on conditions and watercolor.  I did fish the Controlled Descent Jerk Shad some today but without them in the shallow cover no luck calling them up, but will not give up on that the next month.  The day was ok, at least I caught a few.  It would be nice if the water would clear just a little more, it just seems they do not like it.  As far as coves go some have a few and others seem flat barren.

But hope springs eternal and it should start really picking up with this warming trend.  And if will clear more they should move to the shallow cover.  I intended to flip some today but the wind was just a little to much of a hassle.  Thinking about it now maybe one or two was all that came out of windy banks.  There is a lot to learn right now and Friday will be back at it.

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It Begins

The new trout regs begin on 3/26/24.

• Three fish daily bag limit per angler
• A minimum size of 15 inches and a maximum size limit of 20 inches
• One oversized trout greater than 30 inches allowed as part of daily bag limit

It will be interesting to see how it affects populations in the long run.  But it sure will get those internet warriors going.  Just think, catch 3 trout and you too will be a star.  But it is a good thing, only time will really tell.

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Starting to get excited about heading to Big Bend next week for one last trip before we leave Texas.  Just like the fishing there is a thing or two we want to be sure to experience.  You always think you will come back after moving but in our case we are being realistic.  With our love of the outdoors there is so much in the west we have not explored, much of it a day’s drive away along with tons of new fishing.  We love the parks in this country and like so much in life, so many parks so little time, and we intend to make the most of ours.

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The new boat is working fine but of course there are quirks.  First it will only go so far so fast and after years of hauling booty that has taken a little getting use to.  And putting it on the trailer is so like the old Carolina Skiff, it takes a little practice.  So while that has been a little hassle in the wind which has been blowing right on the ramp the last few days it has been good for learning how it handles.  If that is as tough as it gets no problem.  Can’t wait to get it out to Colorado and put some fish in the boat.

I have most of the month to fish before heading to the Chandeliers with the Wade Right boys.  The Championship belt will be back on the line and it is an honor to whoever wins, it is not an easy crowd.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

As I prepared this for tomorrow I almost loaded up and went to the lake this afternoon but there were still storms around so stayed at the house.  It would have been nice to fish one more time before the weather cleared and the wind starts to blow out of the north.  But as all fishermen know the weather never seems to cooperate.  So I expect big changes tomorrow will just have to see how it goes.  But I will be fishing.

Weather

62/80.  Sun and a few passing clouds. Areas of patchy fog. Winds NW at 10 to 15 mph.

Lake Level 

Today   98.30.      Wednesday 98.28.  (full pool)

Bite Times

Major   10:53 am to 12:53 pm.

**************The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

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

The best for a short morning.

It was about as good as I thought it would be, slow.  After yesterday’s front and rain the water temp was 67, a 3 degree drop.  The wind was light out of the northwest and the color did not improve except for one area.  More on that in a bit.  The sun came out pretty quickly and did not help matters.

To make a short story shorter I started on my best bank and had 4 bites and only boated 2.  They were far from aggressive so time to hit my other good bank from this week and exactly the same result.  Caught 2 and missed a couple.  All were small and the swim jig was the bait of preference.  At this point in the morning the sun was out so I made an executive decision to head way up lake and check out the white bass.

One thing about way up, the water is clear.  Going all the way to the bridge and slow trolling back produced one big crappie, it was hooked deep so in the live well it went.  Now I needed a fish to go with it so I picked a likely looking bank with good cover and the fish above just smoked it.  To bad for him as he is the guest for dinner during the Iowa girls game.  I trolled a little longer and finally called it a day around 1:00.  After a good week of clouds and wind it was the exact opposite but there is hope.  Monday is looking like cloudy and light rain, and it will be back at it.

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Unfortunately, TPWD reports that Amistad is now “infested” with Zebra mussels.  Hard to not blame, I hate to use that term, bass fishermen.  It is not so much blame but as I and many have done is fish the hot lakes, or the good lakes wherever we could possibly get to because we can trailer.  Unless care is taken things get transferred, it just is what it is.  Though Texas has the same clean, drain, and dry program it is a toothless tiger as I found out when fishing Colorado.

Colorado has an invasive sticker fee so all boaters pay to reduce the spread of invasive species, and many of the lakes have an inspection station both putting in and taking out.  If the boat is not properly taken care of, they will be “happy” to clean it for a fee.  And when I take the Lund out there in May it will have to be inspected before it is even dropped in any water in the state.  So I am trying to practice it every time I take it out of the water, it will be standard operating procedure from now on.

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The only freshwater regret is I never got to OH Ivie.  It had 4 bass over 13 in 4 days last week.  That is amazing and it won’t last forever, speaking of bass fishermen from all over the country trailering their boats.  Ivie is a tribute to TPWD stocking programs, and they are to be commended for what they have done.

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After that guy out west imported Marco Polo sheep genetics against federal law looks like he is going to prison for developing a hybrid I wonder if there will be repercussions in Texas?  According to the article he admitted he sold some of the sheep in Texas.  TPWD should be investigating any ranch or ranches that bought the genetic sheep for high fence hunting.  If the first guy is a felon for his actions what level of accountability does the buyer of the sheep have?  Does Texas consider it ok to import these animals?  I have been critical of their handling of the CWD and private deer breeders, and this is disturbing.  These are illegal genetic freaks.  So, my guess is due to the money interests in Texas having inordinate power and influence nothing will be done.  So please correct me if I am wrong but I have no faith anything will come of it.  I still do not understand what part of their duty to “wildlife” has to do with genetic freaks and commercial interests.

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FFS

What makes bass tournaments what they are is the quest to figure it out.  A bunch of guys on water where they have to find a way to catch fish, and they do and the interesting part is who figures out the bait, location, and the way to catch them.  Forward facing sonar while amazing changes the game and not for the better.  It seems there is finally a slow movement to ban forward facing sonar in tournaments.  Want to use it yourself for pleasure fishing, fine.  But as I said when you have the top 10 all using it in a major tournament one week and then next week when you have be versatile to catch them NOT 1 of those guys from the prior week are in the top 10.  And folks are finally saying it quietly – real one trick ponies.  Sorry big-time pros are saying it, not just me.  Being rich and sponsored enough to put $50k in electronics on your boat does not make you a fisherman.  What next, daddy buying it for high school kids so they can us it?  What about the kid from a single parent who is eaten up with bass fishing and is priced out of the sport?  Is it going to turn tournament fishing into nothing more than the rich guy wins?  Folks buying it to win $100 in a club tournament?  It is headed that way.  I have said if before and will say it again, the cost of fishing has gotten insane.

And this nonsense argument it is just progress does not do justice to what made the sport.  NASCAR slowed them down, baseball and golf have regulations on the contents of the balls, football even tells you how many pounds or air pressure in the ball along with a host of other rules in sports.  These decisions are made with spectators and participants in mind to level the playing field and to keep the sport popular.  Forward facing sonar is the worst development in tournament fishing in my lifetime.

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I intend to hit the lake in the morning, and while the forecast is for a few showers in the morning that will not stop me unless it is thundering.  But I will be hooked up and ready to go as soon as it is safe.  The fishing will be ongoing as much as possible the next 6 weeks so keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

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FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

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Why couldn’t the beekeeper afford a GPS device?… Because honey can’t buy mappiness.

Thanks for that madame, our laugh for today

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

Weather

58/70.  Cloudy early with partial sunshine expected late. Winds NE at 15 to 25 mph.

Lake Level

Today 98.28 (Full Pool.)     Thursday 98.32.

Bite Times

Major    7:45 am to 8:45 am.    Minor  1:09 pm to 2:09 pm.

*************The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

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

Monday

They got the weather right.  It was blowing out of the SE at a pretty good clip and it was cool.  The water temp was still right around 70 degrees over most of the lake.  I was happy for the chance to drive the boat in some rough water and wind, and it did just fine.

First thing headed up lake and immediately caught 3 on my good bank on spinnerbait but missed at least that many as they were just not that active, not surprising due to the cold front.  From first thing until 1:00 it was 5 total, 3 on spinnerbait and 2 on swim jig.  At this point I seemed fairly clueless.  I decided to head back down lake and stopped at the first cove, and they were there.

A sample.  Nothing big but the bite was on – for 5 minutes!

Working back in the cove and when turning to head back out on the other side one just smoked a buzzed spinnerbait.  Then another, and another, and before one broke me off it was 8 as fast as I could cast.  They were on the flat part of the cove in somewhat clear water with no wind.  Most I have been catching the last 4 days have been right in the brush, but these were in full chase mode and smoked it halfway back to the boat.  It was one good bite.  And as quick as it was on it was over.

From there it was 2 more coves with a total of one more, and it looked just like the ones above.  Funny how last Monday one big fish came over the side and I ended up losing 2 more.  Today I am not so sure if I had one or not as 2 broke my line.  As we are all want to do it reminded me, I had not changed line at least since last fall, and maybe longer on a couple of the rods.  Tonight, they all got new 15lb test as the watercolor is still marginal and line weight should not be an issue for the fish.  I spend so much time fishing 10lb due to our clear water, but it just is not necessary right now and going heavier should alleviate random breakage.  (It did)  Hate it when they break off.

Nor sure quite what is going on with the fish, but it should start to improve rapidly after this front.  And as long as we do not get any significant rain the lake should continue to clear.  The color is still marginal at best, but the temp is up and there is plenty of cover.  Frog is going to get a workout and then with the amount of cover maybe some flipping and pitching.  Time to keep an open mind, there is a way to catch them.

Tomorrow it is off to Toyota in Corpus for maintenance on the truck, a stop at Roy’s, and then oysters is on the menu.  Then Wednesday it will be back at it at daylight and will post that day with this report.

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Wednesday

Weather

53/68. Cloudy skies with a few showers later in the day.  Winds E at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%

Lake Level

Monday 98.28 (Full Pool.)     Today 98.24.  (Keep in mind it is a slow fall.)

Bite Times

Major    9:29 am to 11:29 am.  (Like that.)   Minor 3:19 pm to 4:19 pm.

The real issue tomorrow is when the rain and storms get here.  Looks like I might get almost a full day but looking at tomorrow night and Thursday not so hot.  Any forecast that is for severe thunderstorms with possible hail qualifies as a no-go day.  But I sure like tomorrow’s forecast so we shall see.

A BEAT DOWN – What a difference a day makes!

Some days are worth getting up for, and today was one of those.  As this is my last hurrah springtime on Coleto I was hoping for a couple of good days and to make a long story short I quit at 2:00.  Why?  Cranking that big bladed spinnerbait at rip roaring speed making a wake is work.   Add I do not know how many and it was something.  But it was not all spinnnerbait.  I figured out which to throw when and where and this is the results.

The water is definitely clearing all over the lake but the water temp had dropped from around 70 everywhere to 66 – 67 first thing in the morning.  The wind was just right, and a ripple in the right place was the spinnerbait ticket.  Dea calm, the swim jig.

I do not know what she would have weighed.  Spawned out and beat all to crap.

And it went on from there.  I quit counting at 25 around 11:00, the bite was on.

Short but a real hoss on the swim jig.

If you ran it just right they smoked it.  Glad I changed line as they broke 2 spinnerbaits.

Another spawned out female.

As I worked my way back to the ramp though it was clear the best numbers were on the swim jig that is not how I finished the day.  Most of the day I was sitting in barely 3′ of water and throwing both as far as I could.  That gives you a clue the type of area that was the best.  In one cove I made a long pass with the spinnerbait and caught 2 but it looked so good I re-fished it with the swim jig and ended up catching 10 more on the same bank.   They want the swim jig at a moderate pace, just keeping it moving down a couple of feet at most.  The last few places I cranked that spinnerbait until my arm almost fell off.  It was not fast by any means but the average made it worth it.  I can not over emphasis has hard they stopped it, fun stuff.  And today I did not break any off which was a bonus.

Here is the punch line.  I wrote a while ago I figured they were on the beds and it looks like they are coming off.  Cover is the key and if there is bait flipping hold on.  I am sure there are several ways to catch them right now.  Topwater will be on as the water has really cleared, and the whole day I was wishing I had some pink floating trick worm.  Trust me they would eat that with a vengeance.  There is a time every spring to fish as much as you can and that time is now.  Looks like tomorrow is a no go but Friday it will be back at it,

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This from one of my long-time readers.

As always, I enjoy reading your blog and seeing your pictures. Your wildlife photos from Colorado make me very envious, but all that snow makes me glad I live in Texas! Your new boat sounds great and I sure wish you would share some pictures of it so we all can see how it’s rigged. Keep it all coming please!

Ok, here you go.

Before:  No guide on’s, 12 inch bias ply’s and no sidestep.

After:  Guide on’s, 13″ high speed steel belted radials which turned out to be a hassle.  The fender was actually attached to the leaf springs so had to take the whole thing apart to move the fenders to fit, but all good.  And a angled front spare to keep it out of the way.

Before:  No additions.  Love the cup holders.  Folks who have fished with me know it was not right until I spill my coffee.

After:  Hand control tm with bracket for stability, front mounted gps/locator with trolling motor transducer.  Right side adjustable rod holder and there is a sliding small box for stuff.

Before:  Left side view.

After:  gps/locator transducer mounted on transom, rod holder, all in position for easy reach from the seat.  I can sit in the seat run the motor and keep an eye on the locator and rod holders.  (Excuse the fishing stuff headed out in the morning.)

A 25hp rear steer 4stroke.  Hull is 14’9″ deep V able to handle fairly big water.  It is definitely bigger than it looks.  It has storage areas, plumbed aeriated live well, a bilge pump and 2 rod boxes that can handle 7′ plus rods.   This boat is rigged for trolling and regular fishing.  Some of the local lakes have landlocked Kokane salmon and others have lake trout which I consider my new adventure.  As most of the area lakes I will be fishing are not that big, speed is definitely not an issue.  Many of the lakes are on gravel roads, so the need was for a serious tire that will handle both mountain roads and 70mph on the interstate was a priority.  That is the “technical” info but there are other very important reasons I bought this particular boat.

I have towed from Canada to the Everglades and hundreds of places in between.  I wanted a boat that was lighter for towing, in fact you barely know it is there saving big gas $$$ and wear and tear on the truck.   There was never another brand in the mix, Lund is top of line in aluminum.  Along with that is the incredible gas milage of a smaller motor.  (Plus bigger hp is not the best for trolling.)  No more of that $50 stop at the gas station.  It is much easier to man handle, a consideration when you fish constantly by yourself as a 70 y/o.  I am not getting any younger or prettier.  With the kind of ramps I have put in over the years that will be a plus.  And speed:  From my Black Max that did 72mph on my second Champ in the mid 70’s to the others along the way, been there done that.  In the grander scheme of things who gives a crap.  The fact it takes me 22 minutes to get back from up lake to the ramp versus 14 minutes is a so what.  I wanted a fishing machine, and this is it.

As far as the weather thing it is crazy out there, a foot of snow one day and 50 degrees the next.  But unlike Texas come summer all the windows are open, we do not even have an air conditioner.  And of course, the animals, our real love.  As we were deciding on where we wanted to retire one thing that was helpful, I can fish anywhere.  But where else can I see a bear, a lion, and the rest of the crew in my back yard.  I admit to about a 10-year attention span and it is time for something new in fishing.  But do not get me wrong Texas has some of the best fishing on the planet and I have enjoyed all that has happened since we have been here.  Thanks for your comment.

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The stop at the gas station to just see how much gas the 25 burned was a pleasant surprise.  Fishing wherever I wanted on Coleto for 2 days cost a total of $9.  I am still getting the hang of a “new” way to fish and motor and it is all good.  Will take time tomorrow during the rain to re-check all the nuts on the trailer job, I have seen what happens when you don’t, not interested in that kind of hassle.  Can’t wait to get out west and start on a new fishing adventure.

If Friday goes as planned will try to get the report up before the weekend,  Then next week it will be fish till you drop.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

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Spinner Bait – Day 3 this week.

I had been fishing up the plant arm as the water is definitely clearer but as it has started to clear just a little, I made an executive decision and headed up the main arm to one of my can’t miss spring spots.  Now that very same “can’t miss” spot was devoid of fish on Monday.  At daylight it was up to the spot and it made my whole day.

The day before 2 came over the side on spinnerbait so I was hopeful there might be some spinnerbait fish.  Starting with the swim jig on the first pass one jumped on but there were a few shad flipping and it looked like a shad spawn.  This time of year it can be the holy grail of spring bass fishing so always keep an eye out.  If it is happening they are there somewhere.   So turning around to re-fish and it was game on.

Love it when this size stops it!

On the return pass at least 10 jumped on, it was great.  As usual I was running it right below the surface making a big wake with the white willow leaf tandem.  It is and always will be my favorite way to catch bass.  I was lucky enough to be taught almost 50 years ago by some of the best spinnerbait fisherman on the planet.  It is a specialized technique that is really effective from pre-spawn to post spawn.  Nothing like a bass stopping a high speed spinnerbait.  And in the next couple of weeks the potential to catch a really big fish is high so I will throw that dang thing until my arm falls off.

The bite was on first thing.

That bite lasted all of a half hour and was over on that bank.  For the rest of day until I quit at 3:00, it was one or two here or there, split between the spinnerbait and the swim jig.  I learned a lot and am looking forward to tomorrow (Friday) when I get back on the water trying to hit the pre-front bite.  (Ended up spending Friday mounting the new tires and raising the fenders, more on that later.)  I do have some trepidation about the rain to come.  We may need rain but as far as the lake we do not need any more color.  And if I have learned anything the last 3 days fishing here it is.

It was an easy 10 in the first place.

First, not all stuff (Cover) is created equal. So much of it looks good but looks can be deceiving.  For some reason the green grass looks amazing, but it only seems to hold small fish, that will change but it obviously has something to do with the color and the spawn.  The ticket by far, stick ups and buck brush on flat banks.  The old dead stuff is fine.  I think the grass is on the soft bottom and that is not what they are interested in yet.  But look out later it has an awfully “froggie” look to it.  As things settle down the frog fishing may be as good as it has been on the lake in years.

Next, not all color is created equal.  It does not take much but here and there are sections where the color is not as bad, and that is where the fish are.  They made it clear to me they are not interested in the muddy water.  So take that with a grain of salt.  But it you can find the combination, a little clearer with buck brush on a flatter bank there are fish there.  So really looking forward to tomorrow, it had potential to be epic.

*************The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

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

And this from a reader.

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

I can finally say I have the Lund completely rigged the way I want it.  Dual locators, rod holders, storage basket, and the trolling motor and support bracket.  One of the things I appreciate about the boat, among others, is the rail mount that allows you to mount all the accessories you want on the rail and not having to drill any holes to accomplish it.  Over the years I would strive not to drill anymore holes in the fiberglass boats but in the end it was a losing proposition.   Now I can add, move and whatever at my discretion.  The final touch, being able to mount the trolling motor transducer on the transom block without drilling any holes.  The whole rigging process was somewhat of a pain in the butt but it was worth it.

And last was mounting the high speed 13″ radial tires on galvanized rims.  Why galvanized?  Because they use a salt like substance on the roads in Colorado and it should reduce potential rusting.  The mounting was a hassle as I went up in size which required moving the fenders up.  In one respect I got lucky.  It is recommended that they be approximately 4″ above the tire which just happened to line up on top of the frame with the brackets I made so it looks right.  But the way they were mounted it used the bolts that attached the leaf springs to the frame so basically I had the pleasure of taking the trailer apart on both sides.  More hassle than anything, it was the last thing that needed done and it is exactly the way I want it.  Rigging yourself reminds you why it cost to have it done, but I did not do it to save money, in my case it was just actually doing it myself on a new boat.  Mission accomplished.

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Tomorrow I am looking forward to the north wind 15 – 25mph.  So far I have been pleased with the way the boat runs and handles so the hope is it will blow 25.  (Not something you normally hear out of a fisherman’s mouth.) Part of the decision-making process on this size and model was the known ability to handle rough water while keeping with the simplicity goal.  So bring it on as it will be the final “test” and then hardcore fishing will begin.

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It will back on the water tomorrow, then Corpus to get the truck serviced and eat some oysters.  Then Wednesday it will be back on the water.  With less than a couple of months until returning to the mountains I intend to take fall advantage of my last spring fishing in Texas.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff,

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

After a trip to Academy to pick up a fire extinguisher and spare plug I am finally done minus mounting the radials when they get here.  So time to actually fish instead of thinking about it.  I decided to wait until Monday as the traffic will definitely be down, and with the week to fish I will get plenty of it.  And hopefully the motor will end up with the 10 hours to break it in, it has 6 so a couple of days should do it.  It will be a little Deja vu as my first real boat was a 14′ with a 20hp and this is a 15′ with a 25 4stroke.  There has been a lot of boats in that time but this looks like it might be my favorite.  Can you say simple?

Weather

52/75.  Partly cloudy. Winds ESE at 10 to 15 mph.

Lake Level

Current 98.32   Full Pool 98.28.   (Now that I am back will track it until leaving.)

Bite Times

Major 1:51 to 3:51 pm.  Minor 8:01 to 9:01 am.

Day 1 – Monday

It might have been tough today but at least this girl stayed buttoned.

The water is as high as I have seen it all the time I have been fishing Coleto.  It is really off color over most of the lake.  They got the forecast spot on and the east wind did not help much.  I was fishing at daylight and to make a long story short I did not even have a bite until until 12:15.  From then on I put 6 in the boat, lost one like the big one above, and had another break my line.

Throwing the book at them did not help and when I finaly stetted down and stuck with the 1/4 swim jig with Rage Craw and got a bite here and there.  The first couple of bites were weak, just grabbing the craw and of course tearing a leg off.  The one that broke my like was on the bluegill color and so with the water color so bad went with more of a sexy shad color.  Both colors worked the same, it just took me while to get on it and tomorrow should be a better day.

The other 6 were  this size and smaller.

Most of the day I was in about 4 foot of water throwing as far as I could on those more slopping banks with scattered brush.  Tomorrow will ad a pegged sinko style worm for pitching to any real outside bushes.  Not sure if they have all spawned or if it is about to happen this moon.  It will be very interesting to see how tomorrow goes sticking with the swim jig all day.  With the color like it should be able to get by with a little heavier line and avoid both breaking them off and losing them because I cannot control them when they jump.  Not a bad start to the last spring on Coleto and there should be a few more big fish in my future.

*************The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

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

Day 2

Weather

57/79.  More clouds than sun. Winds SSE at 10 to 20 mph.

Lake Level

Current 98.30   Full Pool 98.28.   (Now that I am back will track it until leaving.)

Bite Times

Major 2:42 to 4:42 pm.  Minor 8:33 to 9:33 am.

Better on numbers but this is the biggest I managed today.

The Boss was off and ordered a fish fry so time to man up.  Way more stressful than tournament fishing.  And I managed to pull it out.  The one above and a 15″ was plenty.  As far as the fishing the numbers were way up, I lost count at 13 but no size.

The weather and my wanting to quit at 1:00 combined to keep me back at the house when I probably should have been fishing.  The shad color swing jib with some chartreuse combined with a Rage Craw upside down so the color was facing down was the bait of choice.  Am reeling it at a medium speed, maybe 2 – 3ft deep on a steady retrieve.  Most are coming very close to the bank and give me a flat shallow point with stick ups and it is game on.  I fished a variety of places today, big flats, creek, coves and a little main lake with the cove being the better place.  There were a few swings and misses so who knows, I might have missed a big one.

On the bright side I managed to catch 2 on spinnerbait.  As the water clears and the shad spawn happens it is about to get good.  At least that is my story and I am sticking to it.  Only a half hour to go on the break-in and the motor will be cleared to run.  I have been religious about varying throttle and running up and down, both in speed and on the water, which was getting old.  Looks like it will run over 20mph which is fine.  Many of the lakes I will be fishing it would take about 2 minutes to get to the other end.

Tomorrow it will be up early and gone all day.  It seems the afternoon bite is just a little better for the bigger fish, and the water should warm quite a bit tomorrow before the ftont and rains come.  The big bite is out there, and it is going to happen if I spend enough time.  Maybe a chartreuse square bill?  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

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

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

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Our last day before returning to Texas we took one last run at the wildlife.  After our impromptu trip where we did not have the camera and binocs and saw tons of great stuff the next day we made sure we were ready to go and it was a jackpot.

Baby, and below, momma.  After seeing tons of sheep we kept going further up the mountains to an area that has classic moose habitat and there they were.  Low areas with bushes seem to be their favorite place.  You can cruise lots of places before seeing one as they are not exactly tons of them in Colorado, but today we got a close up treat.

Momma was not all that happy to see us and she and the calf headed back in the timber.

Then we see calf number 2, and mom was just a little further on.

Unlike the first 2 these were not the least bit concerned we were there and we got to watch them feed.

We consider seeing a moose close to seeing a bear or a lion.  We have been fortunate to see both on our drives and cannot wait to see what the future holds.  One thing we are searching for is a lynx, another holy grail animal for us.

Then as we worked back we found 3 groups of elk on the ridge.

We had been watching a large herd of elk the last couple of weeks who were on their low land wintering grounds.  As the weather has moderated (Minus the 5 or 6 inches of snow yesterday.) the elk have deserted the lowland and seem to have broken up into their normal groups and headed up.  The time to really see them is on their migration either down in the fall or back up in the spring so nothing beats time looking.  It is just like fishing, you never know unless you go.

A fox one of several we say today.  This one was a couple of hundreds yard out and this is as good as we can get with our camera.

One thing that surprised us is the number of coyotes in Colorado.  We have seen a ton once the snow comes by cruising in areas with big fields and using the binocs.  They love those areas as it has all kinds of little edible creatures.  While they are often to far away for a picture we love watching them through the binocs.  If there is one piece of advice I can give anyone who wants to see wildlife do not scrimp on the binocs.  Good optics make all the difference and the Vortex High Definition get the job done.  We are lucky in the area having a plethora of cool wildlife and our retirement will be spent viewing them.

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************The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

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

As you know I love it when folks comment, especially from new folks so here is a couple that have a Colorado or western flair to them.

Love fly-fishing, but let’s remember to practice catch and release and always take care of our streams! It’s our responsibility to keep these places healthy.”

Absolutely!  We need to treat our streams just like we do our boat.  Whether the boat or our equipment, boots and waders:  Clean, drain, and dry.  While the spread of exotics is probably unstoppable in the really long run we can all do our part to preserve and protect for the folks that are coming after us.  And as far as catch and release there are plenty of places the state of Colorado stocks plenty of trout so if I want to eat some I just head to the lake and catch me a limit for the pan.  I so appreciate you both commenting.  Thanks.

“Just had the most epic morning on the river! Landed a gorgeous brown trout. The hatch was insane, and my snubnose was the ticket. Feeling grateful!”

From my fist brown trout 50 years ago to my last on the Rio close to the house I have never gotten tired of catching them.  I so look forward to my next adventure.  And when you say hatch I was on the water when it happened for me the first time I was hooked.  So thanks for the comment and cannot wait for ice out at home.

And to any of you who read this out west, keep in touch, the western adventure begins in earnest.  I can not wait.

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Live Scope

This week the Bassmaster’s are in the Santee Cooper lakes and it is intersting how not a single person in the top 10 last week using the Live Scope are in the top 10 this week where you are required to actually figure it out.  The thing about a Live Scope is you can become proficient in the technology without really learning to “fish.”  It seems to be a short cut in a big way and as the season plays out we shall see who comes to the front.  A video game can be played by a 6 y/o, at least that is the way I see it.  So you can catch them when you see them, big deal, how about when you can’t?

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The Lund

It has been a pleasure to rig the new boat.  While some was of it was a pain in the ass I have this one exactly the way I want it.  The only thing left is the new bigger radial tires that will be shipped to the house sometime this week.  All I have to say is no wonder rigging is so expansive.  But I am proud the way it came out.

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

Tomorrow morning it will be off to the lake the first trip of many over the next 2 months until heading back to Colorado for the summer fishing.  There are so many lakes with tons of options for multiple fish and I am so excited to start the new boating/fishing adventure.  I can feel a big one coming on in the morning.  Until then I intend to flog these Texas fish until then.  So keep stopping in and the reports will becoming regularly.  And to all of you that still read this stuff, thanks.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

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

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

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Our view out of the window on our visit to Cripple Creek.

We took a drive up toe Cripple Creek and spent the night.  It has changed so much since our visit there over 10 years ago.  We stayed at the new casino and had a great time walking the old town.  The highlight of the drive was seeing several lakes on my list, some with trophy trout and pike.  In fact when we signed in the guy at the desk showed us a picture of a cutbow that went an easy 10lbs caught from the bank at an area lake.  It was good to talk to a fisherman and it just fueled my desire to lay the smack down on the fish in this high mountain lakes.

It has been a fun week with the Boss here and today we are starting to prepare to head back to Texas.  The weather has been stunning and as you can see from the mule deer below they have not dropped and are beginning to leave the neighborhood.  But on our walks there are still plenty around and I never get tired of seeing them.

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This morning while we were eating breakfast and watching the news the sounds of gobblers war ringing in the mountains.  It might seem a little early but they have started to turn colors for the spring and these pictures are 30 feet behind the house.

That is one awesome gobbler!

Fighting and preening they were in full strut this morning.

*************The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

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

We had a little snow last night, and the wind was topping out at somewhere between 50 – 70mph.  So we waited to take our walk until noon and then headed to the store to pick up a few things.  Then we made both a great choice and a bad choice.  We forgot the “bag” which carries all our survival gear and camera and binocs.  All I have to say is dang it.

Elk headed over the ridge.

We did not intend to head up to the good area, it was just a drive to check out the river, which is still frozen solid.  But we just kept on going and then it happened, the reason we love it here.  To make a long story short, over 50 bighorns, dozens of elk, and coyotes.

What made the lack of a camera and binocs such a screw up, I never leave home without them, was we came across 4 coyotes hunting as a pack in a big field.  It was so awesome to get to watch them hunt, finished as one took the big jump and took a nose dive in the snow for his dinner.

It is impossible to tell how many sheep were there but if you look in the background they were all over the ridge.

We did not see any big rams, but without the binocs we could not see higher up but there were sheep literally for a mile or so from the road to way up the mountain.  I have seen lots over the last year but words do not do the numbers we saw today.  Unfortunately it was IPhones for the pics, but one advantage, we spent time watching without our face in a viewfinder.  Everyday it is my privilege and honor to get to witness what is stunning wildlife.  It is our own Yellowstone.

So awesome, not sure what he caught but then he heads for a drink.  And the black spot above him, one was bedded down taking a snooze.  The other 2 were way out in the field.

There were 4 hunting a big pasture.  I know this is blurry but when you take it with an IPhone from over 100 yards it is tough.  But the point is getting to watch a hunt is a joy and this guy cooperated.  So what a drive.  While it is hard to do it justice it was one great outdoor experience.

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It is mixed emotions as we prepare to head back Thursday.  But for me the anticipation of finishing the rigging on the Lund and fishing for the next 2 months in Texas has me giddy as it will be the last spring.  Then finishing the time there with the Chandelier trip will be a perfect finish.  The plan is to be back here in the middle of May and the new fishing adventure will begin.  The goal, learn to put Kokane salmon in the boat.  As they are basically a land locked Sockeye it will be great to have a steady stream of fresh salmon.  So the adventure continues.  The next time you hear from me will be back on Coleto.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

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Happy Birthday to the Boss

My girlfriend putting them in the net on the Thompson outside of Estes.

It has been my good fortune to marry this woman 34 years ago.  She taught me the world is out there to explore and we have done it.  Australia, Peru, Turkey, Greece, Costa Rica, Belize, Italy, Africa and the list goes on.  And the whole time she has put up with my fishing without a complaint.  So the trip continues, and I count my blessings she is in my life.  Definitely the blind hog and acorn thing.  Love you buster.  (Can’t wait until you get here in a couple of days.  We can do Colorado $hit before we head back to Texas.)

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1700 Joyous Days – Memories to last a lifetime.

This is but a tiny sample of the long great trip it has been.  It has been my pleasure and honor to keep after it, and that will not change.  The fishing, the travel, the adventures are all different and will continue as long as we are able.   It is a big world out there and again my thanks to the Boss for sharing it with me as we embark on another chapter.  And my thanks to you all, it would not have happened without you.  Not sure what I did to deserve all this, but I am one lucky guy.

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From the mountain above the house overlooking town and the San Luis valley.

This is the last week I will be here until heading back to Texas for a couple of months.  Every day I walk and once the snow was down just a little headed up the mountain to see what is up.  This is my view when I hike up the mountain behind the house.  After making the hike the other day, we still have a foot or 2 above the house but the game trails were amazing.  And while it was work to make it I just stood there and took it all in.  The Boss and I have explored many places and taken lots of chances in our life to get here.  There is something about the beauty and majesty of the mountains that has a calming effect.  We could have gone anywhere and we chose here.  So as we get ready to finally retire for good, we have found our happy place.  Counting the days until we are permanently here.

*************The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

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Bassmaster Toledo Bend

Watching the tournament every morning the last 3 days left me with ambivalent feelings.  Basically everybody was fishing with down imaging forward looking sonar.  And even on a lake as big as Toledo bend 7 of the final 10 were on top of each other in the same area.  I have watched for years and always liked seeing who could figure it out, deep or shallow, jigs, spinnerbait you never knew.  But in this case, there is no figuring it out.  Sorry but watching a bunch of guys on TV, watching TV as they all do the same thing is boring.

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This comment from a long time reader makes several great points about my comments on foreign baits and in the long run on the cost of fishing.

I went to temu and got 4 glide baits or $25. Still have to test but give the Chinese brands at academy and bass pro a run for the money. Would like to buy more American but I find the soft plastic guys. A hand painted bait costs $50. To expensive for me. How about hinkle glide baits…

First let me comment on something I just ranted about, the ridiculous cost of fishing.  I honestly had never heard of Hinkle glide baits, so I looked them up, are your freaking kidding me?  $750 to $1000 for a bait is beyond stupid.  And you are so correct as Academy and Bass Pro have tons of foreign made baits on the wall.  So once you are back at it let us know how the baits work.  Guess I have been spoiled working with Michael and Knockin Tails.  Made in America by a great family it has been my pleasure to deal with them over the years. (Can’t wait to be back with the boat and use them on the trout and other stuff here.) But you made a great point, it is almost impossible to get away from foreign baits, a fact of life.

The whole sport is having issues right now, including a state record crappie with a couple of ball bearings and the “winner” of a tournament disqualified for falling a polygraph, both apparently rooted in money.  Cheating has always been in the sport, maybe folks are just getting caught more but the way I see it is if these are a small part how prevalent is it?  Sad to see things like this happening.  (Why I quit fishing partner bass tournament.)  So good to hear from you and thanks for the insightful comment and let us know how they work out.

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And this is one interesting comment from a reader.

Hi,
Just wanted to tell you that I’ve been following you for years. I can’t believe how much we are alike.
I’ve lived in Fayette co. all my life. Fayette Lake took most of my grandfathers farm. Just sold park store this year. Know the lake better than the guides.
Have a house in Magnolia Beach. Fished Powderhorn a lot.
Hunted and fished Colorado since 1971. Have a cabin on the Conejos River south of Platoro Reservior.(Good fishing) just south of SouthFork.
And last I drive a 4Runner.
Enjoy reading your post.
I’m 71 y.o. (retired). And would enjoy talking with you.

Small world.  It is so rewarding to hear from folks who have not commented but have been reading the blog for a long period.  There are more of you out there and it is so gratifying to hear from you.   And I kept your contact info and will hollar at some point.  Thanks for letting me know you are out there and I have already looked up Platoro thanks to you.  Can’t wait to get the Lund out here and get to work.

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The Boss gets here Wednesday and will stay a week before we head back.  I am really excited to get to my other home and finish rigging the Lund.  It will be my last spring on Coleto and then finish up with the annual trip to the Chandelier Islands the first of May.  Of course there will be housework to do as we prepare to put it on the market this fall.  Then my plan is to return to Colorado the middle of May and spend most of the summer here.  There are tons of places to fish, and besides trout there are plenty of other stuff to catch, including pike, lake trout, much less the usual suspects.  So the next 6 months will be all about the fishing and just have to see how much and where I squeeze in.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines