FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

When I got up this morning it was 53 degrees and gusting to 37mph.  I had every intention to fish but no thanks as the temp is supposed to drop a little more and keep blowing.  And looking at tomorrow it will be rain and cold and blowing.  One thing all fishermen experience, is the weather attempting to just ruin our day.   Oh well, good thing I can go every day the rest of the week.

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Damn You for Paying Your Bill 

I really wish I went fishing instead of what I have been doing.  We are in an ongoing hassle with our local insurance agency, that through no fault of ours has now gotten paid twice for our annual house insurance.  So, plenty of smarmy lip service, condescending talk, and attempt to somehow blame me.    Nothing like blaming a good customer for paying his bill twice to make sure he is not late because of your mistake.

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

For all your wading needs.

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

The Boat Dump Has Begun

Those of you who have been reading this for a while know that I actually look at boats for sale in Texas almost daily if I do not have a rod in my hands.  And the trends is beginning to change.  The last couple of years of the pandemic prices shot up as there was to many buyers chasing to few boats.  That has started to change, and manufacturers will be ramping up production as fast as they can.  There are more quality used boats for sale in the last month than I have seen the last several years.  Prices are still a little out of line bust starting to drop just a little.  With an increased supply, and needing to take out a loan to fill them with gas, changes are coming.  So now is the time to take a breath if you are looking, it will be a buyers’ market shortly.

The biggest reason change is coming, the skyrocketing price of gas.  We saw gas right at the $4 mark in our travels and from what I have read there will be more to come.  I know just my 18′ now means a stop for truck and boat gas ends up with the pump stopping as I have reached the maximum amount, often $75.  And that is with a V6 truck and an efficient 90hp.  I can only imagine what it costs as you move up the sizes, especially in the big hp motors.  So, if you are thinking of buying take a breath, do your research, it might save you thousands.  And last, if it continues like this who will be the last one with a 400hp boat anchor?

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After watching some of the guys fishing the Bassmaster Classic it brought back memories of what really is the “old days”.  When I started fishing a few tournaments in the mid 70’s,  (Guess I am getting old for sure.  That would be 47 years ago.)  we basically had flashers for our fish finders, then the Lowrance X15 paper graph came on the scene and the graph revolution began.  What triggered the memories was watching them catching bass on the forward-looking sonar.  Since we often fished deep in the Ozark lakes, especially in the winter, we would find the fish and then watch our spoon going up and down seeing them as they came to it.  While we could not look forward you could set to have a wider view.  After a while you began to be able to tell whites/stripers vs. bass vs crappies, based on size, positioning and seasonal location.  Let’s compare, a good flasher then maybe $100 vs. the new operation that counting graph and transducer, an easy $5000.  (If you are lucky!)  I have no real opinion on it, if it works for you good deal and I can really appreciate the application in crappie fishing.  My how things have changed.

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And this very interesting comment from Bill.

Curious if you have seen leeches in a basses mouth in Coleto, today i caught several bass but one of them had what looked like small leaches in it’s mouth all over. About 10 of them. I pulled some out and mashed some others. There were gouge scars from them in the mouth flesh. Released it after i got as many off as i could. Bass still seem to be on points, talapia all in the brush.
Thanks for your posts, good info on the lake.

Let me say this really piqued my interest as I have never seen a leach on any fish out of the lake, so I emailed him back for a little more information.  I was wondering did it appear ok, skinny, hit a slow or fast bait, and where it was located.  Was it way up lake in dark water, or back in a cove, not sue what that might have meant but who knows?  And he was kind enough to email me this answer.

caught it the inside of a point heading up river before the bridge. was where tall grass was on edge of the water. about a 2.5 lb bass, healthy but inside the mouth there were tracks where the leeches had been and multiple leeches were attached to the inside of the mouth and close to the gills. caught on a fast retrieve on a shallow crankbait. no others caught showed leeches. i should have taken a pic but was more concerned both getting some off of it and getting it back in the water.  leeches were about 3/4 inch long

Sounds like it was all good as far as the condition and activity level of the fish.  So, it leaves me more puzzled as you would have thought if it was a common thing I might have seen it.  I have seen it in northern waters, including stuck to my leg wading a small stream.  So the rest of you if it has happened to you let us know.  Will be pondering this for a while.  Appreciate your comments and thanks for reading.

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And one last off topic issue.  When we stopped at the Flying J outside Fort Stockton to get gas on the way home from the desert someone tried to defraud our debit card.  How do I know that?  My card would not work for some reason in the last outside pump so I had to go in and pay up front with the card which I did.  As soon as I get done pumping my bank issues a fraud alert as someone just tried to get a $1 charge through, and I responded to the text it was fraud.  I had not even left the parking lot.  I learned from my bank that this is how the scam is done.  Get your card number and send a $1 charge through and see if it goes.  If it does let the spending begin, so good thing my bank caught it.  So the pump “not working” made me come in and hand over the card to get gas and then it was tested immediately.  I let Flying J know as a courtesy in case it is happening.  Unlike my local State Farm agent they were great and glad I called.  So if this happens to you be sure to report it immediately to the last place you used it. Do not accuse, just tell them what happened and let it go where it may as long as you did not lose any money.

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Whether or not I am going to be able to fish tomorrow due to the weather remains to be seen.  It will be up early and looking at the conditions.  But a high of 48 with a 90% chance of rain and north wind is not all that promising.  But from then on good to go.  For right now it is on the treadmill to walk off this messed-up world.  Keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

The Great Smokey Mountains.

Our great bear hunt was not successful, but I still give the trip a big fat A.  We really loved Ashville North Carolina, a nice city that was just big enough with a great downtown.  Plenty to keep you busy if you want to visit.  Our plan was to spend time in the city and the Great Smokey Mountain National Park.  And as part of our travels we visited the town of Sylva which is on the Fly Fishing Trail.  Who knew?

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

For all your wading needs.

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

A  young bull.

Our first day we headed to the main park area to look for bears.  We saw turkeys and whitetail that day, but I am not surprised it wasn’t much.  The main area of the park, and one of the best for seeing bears had folks, lots of folks.  The main roads are paved and the traffic was nuts for off season.  Our parks get busier and busier.  So while it was so-so on the animal viewing the woods and mountains are awesome.  Much different than the west.

It was elk madness day 2 morning.

We also visited Cherokee on the reservation, which I actually visited when I was a freshman in high school.  We did projects on the reservation and also a little tubing, which the area is famous for.  And speaking of the Mountains, it reminded me of the show Moonshiners, which I thought was made in the area, which it was.  We stopped at a little local store for drinks and learned that one of the guys came in the store.  Not a big moonshine fan, it will make you have naked babies, but we saw a few distilleries.  Whether beer or moonshine it is the latest rage in many places we visit.

The herd was on the morning chew.

The second day we chose a route that was in the real woods of the park, and saw a total of one other vehicle.  As we hit the area to search here came the elk, and more elk.  They came filtering out of the woods and we parked and they let us watch them as they fed.  But no bears.  From that point on a 20 mile plus drive over the eastern divide, and while we did not see any more animals it was one cool ride.  The only other thing on the animal front was the Boss did see an eagle.  But lets be real, pretty hard to get a bear to cooperate.  But we sure enjoyed the day.

If you are a fly fisherman this is the place.  And most important, so much of it is spring fed with no reliance on snow fall!

Plenty of stuff like this with access!  Water, water, everywhere.

The evening before we met Will at the Yacht Club, trust me it did not have anything to do with Yachts, while have an adult beverage.  He told us about an area he went to college where they are nuts for fly fishing.  After our morning drive we headed to the town of Sylva, what a great choice.

It was not just elk.  A nice whitetail buck.

He was hanging with his girlfriends.

Long beards.  These 2 guys were strutting down the road and having the occasional set to.  Feeling their spring time oats!

The biggest elk we saw, he was keeping to the cover.

A couple of smalls who thought they were tough guys.

Looking for post winter elk before they head for the hills?  Here is the spot, a misty morning high meadow.

I knew there was good fishing surrounding Ashville, but until I saw it I had no clue.  There are rivers and creeks, and I mean lots.  Trout, smallnouth, and even muskie in the French Broad which runs right through Ashville.  When we got to Sylva we stopped at the Tuckseegee Fly Shop, which is also the name of the local river and those guys were great.  The area is known as the Fly Fishing Trail and there is all the fly fishing a guy could want.

From small streams to big rivers that are perfect for a drift boat, they have it all.  But the thing that was impressive, was the shear amount of access.  The west is great, but it does not hold a candle to that area of North Carolina for true public access.  And of course there are plenty of lakes in the area, in other words perfect for multi-species anglers like yours truly.  I could go on, but you get the drift, I will be heading that way again soon, enouh said.  So check them out and you will see what I mean.

Tuck Fly Shop | Bryson City | Sylva | Waynesville | Fishing Guides & Gear

It is the best fly shop I have been in and had most of what a fly fisherman or tier could need.  I did restrain myself but did pick up a thing or two.

Fly Fishing Trail | Sylva | North Carolina Trout

If you fly fish take a look at this.  In all the places out west I have been this easily tops them for access and information.  We saw miles and miles of fishable water and only 2 or 3 fishermen, such a different situation from most of the more famous places I have been.  It is a dang good thing I did not take the fly rod, or she might have just left me there.  The thing I really liked about the area, there was so much different types of waters, streams, lakes and rivers to fish that no matter the conditions there were definitely fish to catch somewhere every day.  Many of the streams had both trout and smallmouth and were the kind I like, small and isolated.  And nothing like being able to fish for musky without driving to Canada.  And it is exactly the same time drive time to Durango from Victoria, and I have made that one a bunch.  Can you say road trip?

While we did not see any bears, that will come soon enough as we are headed to Alaska chasing brown bears with biologists in June, the area was a great place.  As usual the park was packed, that has become the norm in most of the places we have visited the last few years and now comes with the territory.

That is the highlights, I could not recommend the area any more highly, whether to fish, or just the great scenery and cool towns.  Whether Asheville for the big city vibe, or Sylva for a great small-town visit, plus the parks the area has it all.  The only thing left to do is load up the stuff and head on back.

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Tomorrow the weather is going to deteriorate some, but I hope to be on the lake at daylight.  Looks like it will blow out of the north at times over 30mph with some rain the next few days, but it is March on the Texas coast.  Late in the week will be a day or two on Travis chasing bass and whites.  And soon I will have my hands on the 2 new sizes of Knockin Tails and it will be off to the Gulf for some wading.  Plus, there is a fishing thing or two to talk about next report.  It is about to get busy around here so keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

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I am preparing this Sunday afternoon so I can be efficient with my time, in other words not let other’s incompetence mess up my fishing tomorrow.  The bank stays open late enough I can still fish much of the day and get there in time to get the last screw up fixed before we head out to the Great Smokey Mountain National Park.  Though I will be gone this week if you bass fish it should be on.  This last little front ran them off shallow water but pre-spawn to actual spawning fish will happen as the week wears on.

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

For all your wading needs.

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

I was sure right about them deserting the shallows.  The first thing I noticed was the lake is slowly dropping, guess it is time to start putting the levels and weather back in the report.  To “help” matters further the water temp dropped over the whole lake.  Most of it 4 – 8 degrees depending on where you were.  Add some ugly color here and there it was not a recipe for success, and guess I followed the recipe.

It would be embarrassing to post any of the other fish, it was slow.

The wind was light out of the north and cold.  To make a really short story shorter, it was 5 smalls on Alabama Rig and Knockin Tail, one on the Honeydew Knockin Tail on a jig head, nothing on swim jig or spinnerbait.  Since I wanted to check out the temps I fished scattered stuff from near the plant to all the way up the main arm.  Including coves, points, brush, fished a little of all of it.

It was not one of those lost the big one days, or could not stop catching the small ones, it was flat slow.  The only good bass hit the A Rig right beside the boat and did not hook up, it was nothing special.  And while I was up lake did a little checking on the white bass and caught the one above and a small bass on the chartreuse crankbait.  One thing I do not know for sure is whether they are done or not on yet.  If the weather does as it is supposed to the whites should be there, or it is over, but the bass fishing is going to be back, they are ready to spawn.

Probably the only thing I should have done was switch to the jerk bait.  I thought about it and then did not follow through, which was stupid considering the conditions.  And since I had to call it a day a little earlier than I wanted to if there was a bite it was later in the afternoon.  But that is the way it is with fishing, fish when you can and be happy you are there.  (But it will drive me nuts while I am gone, it is going to get serious good.)

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I got the following response from my buddy Clyde on my comment about pros running around the boat like a chicken with their head cut off landing a fish.

I remember your brother circling the boat on Falcon on back-to-back-to- back hogs!

Definitely a case of Falcon Lake Madness.  But anytime you catch 3 in a row that weigh well over 21lbs it is a case of whatever it takes.  Glad we got in on a few of the good old days on Falcon.  It was any cast.  With the water down for several years it just ain’t what it was.  Too bad the Mexican government has shown little interest in complying with the water treaties they signed with the US.  No big surprise.  No matter what Falcon needs some water.

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2 Favorite Quotes of the Day.

The Gazpacho Police  –

 Moron.

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Wishing Michael a good show as he will be taking the Knockin Tails on the road to the Bassmaster Classic.  The rattle in the tail has obvious multiple freshwater applications.  Plus, it catches fish.

We are off again.  The Boss has a travel habit that rivals my fishing habit.  But no complaints, just happy we can still keep after it.  The only time I was in the area was as a freshman in high school when our church group went and worked on the Cherokee Reservation.  We tubed a mountain stream and saw a bear, which is about all I remember about that trip.  But the Boss has not been to the Smokeys so it will be a good trip no matter what.  And if the timing is right, we should see a bear or two and will get the pictures up if we score.  Plus, it will probably be Travis the week I get back and if I can find a couple of good weather days’ time to fish the Laguna.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

The 5″ is here!

I am so happy to let you know the 5″ Knockin Tail is here and only available on the website for the time being.  And the 3.5″ will be here is a week or two.  For you big bait lovers the 5″ will fit the bill on the salt or as a classic swim bait in freshwater.  And once the 3.5″ is released the Knockin Tail line will fill the bill for any set of conditions.  I cannot wait to get my grubby little hands on some 0f b0th.  They look absolutely killer

And while on the subject Michael will be taking the Knockin Tail on the road as he exhibits at the Bassmaster Classic next weekend in North Carolina.  It will be a chance to share what a great freshwater bait it is for multiple applications.  Largemouth, smallmouth, striper, white bass, walleye, crappie, catfish, tilapia, bream, and other stuff I have caught them all.  It gets the job done.

Additionally, I am looking forward to the Houston Fishing Show at the end of the month.  Will be working the booth a couple of days and more than selling baits, which I love to do, it is meeting folks and spending a few days talking about fishing.  Those of you who know me personally know I might be prone to do a little talking.  See you there.

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

For all your wading needs.

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

My buddy Aaron and his partner are on a good run in the Fishers of Men tournament series.  They placed second in the first tournament and then finished 7th in the second one.

What…. Are you ice fishing?
We took 7th this weekend in Fisher of Men series with a 7.08 kicker with 20.84 good for $700.
I’ll be ready for you to come up in late March on.

“worst bait is a dry hook!”

It was cold and is still that way but will be out of town for another week so it will be a little before I am back at it.  Congratulations on the good run.  Looks like you guys might be on the way to the season ending championship, 20 plus with a 7 kicker will do it most days.  And as soon as you and I settle down hope to fish Sabine Lake with you later this spring.  Good luck on the rest of the tournament year.

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And I got his from SA Joe.

Doug,
I wanted to see if you can help out a small business owner. I was wondering about the Knockin Tail Lures but like to see before i buy. Will has them here at his shop in San Antonio. Bought a couple of packages.

By chance chatting on FB, Amber(fixes reels) mentions his place.
https://www.facebook.com/FishTackleMarineTx/
https://fishtacklemarine.com
2023 Austin Hwy Suite 103 San Antonio, TX 78218

Happy to do it.  For those of you in the SA area stop in and check them out.  Could not tell if he stocks the Knockin Tail on his sites.  If not put in a word for them.  Whether A Rig, swim jig, or just used as a swim bait they get the job done.  So, appreciate a kind word to them for the baits.  We fishermen are all in this together and it is small business helping small business.  If you think Bass Pro really gives a crap about the little guy, I have a bridge to sell you.  Good to hear from you.

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I always get amused when some pros hook a good fish and then run all over the boat to land it.  Having caught hundreds of big bass in my life I have never made laps around the boat.  It always seemed to me that is what the trolling motor is for.  Keep it pointed at the fish until boat side and then turn it the right way and land them.  Simple and a lot easier on your rods and other stuff you end up stepping on.

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On the outdoor front TPWD is proposing closing certain areas to oyster harvesting.  I am torn on the issue and feel for the oyster men who make their living and feed their family by fishing.  Here is the schedule I recieved in my email from CCA.

TPWD Coastal Fisheries staff will be hosting several public hearings on the coast to receive input from stakeholders concerning the proposed regulation change. Here are the ways you can attend: Online Zoom Webinar: TPWD Coastal Fisheries staff will present the proposed change and answer questions related to the proposal in an online webinar on Tuesday, March 1 from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. The webinar will also be posted on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s YouTube channel and Coastal Fisheries Facebook page. In Person Thursday, March 3 from 6:00 — 8:00 p.m. at the Wortham Auditorium (First Floor) in the Rosenberg Library, 2310 Sealy Ave, Galveston, TX 77550 Thursday, March 3 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Rockport Beach Park in the Saltwater Pavilion, 210 Seabreeze Rockport, TX 78382 Thursday March 3 from 6: 00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Bauer Exhibit Building at 305 Henry Barber Way, Port Lavaca, TX 77979 Take action right now Public comments are officially open and can be provided on the TPWD public comment page until 5 p.m. on March 23rd. CLICK HERE to submit your comment TODAY.

So speak your piece or don’t complain.  (Though I have to admit I think this is all lip service and the decision is made.)  Reminds me when Florida went through the “ban the nets period”.  One thing I would like to see if/when they begin this there will be a program to help the guys find new ways to make a living, instead of the state just saying tough shit,  to bad.  Unfortunately, I worry leaving them high and dry will be the end result.  Another battle for the resource, one that will be increasingly fought over in the future.

And as long as we are talking about TPWD proposed regulations for the coming year here is the website for the new releases.  There are multiple proposals on both freshwater fishing and hunting regulations.  So if any of it matters to you, click on the link and see what they have to say, and speak your piece or take whatever comes.

News Releases: – TPWD (texas.gov)

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And on a related note, there is a fight brewing in Oregon between their game and fish and the legislature over types of broadheads and arrow knocks that can be used bow hunting.  (I am not taking sides on who is right, just the method.) This trend by state legislature passing stuff to circumvent authorities on any subject is puzzling.  Has getting elected to public office made these pinheads know-it-all experts on all subjects no matter how complicated?  Why pay the people you hire who actually went to college and got a degree, as in this example wildlife or biology.  Time for term limits.

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In what is described as  the frightening spread of Chronic Wasting Disease continues in Wisconsin deer breeding facilities.  8 are now infected and both businesses and outdoor advocates are concerned, one for their livelihood, the other for the state’s deer population.  If there is even a hint CWD might infect the wild deer population it must be stopped in its tracks.  Sure hope Wisconsin, and TPWD in the state of Texas get it right but we will have to wait and see.  Always remember to follow the money.  No business should be allowed to threaten a state’s wildlife for any reason, including profit.

As far as I am concerned TPWD and every other fish and game in this country have the responsibility to control all wildlife but have a moral duty to protect our wild native species first.  And potentially sacrificing native populations for commercial interests should never happen.

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I have had a crazy time correcting a bunch of stupid people.  REI where I got my crossbars for the truck could not have messed it up even more.  They sent me 5 crossbars, including and open used one to finally get 2 to fit, and they were the ones who said to order the first 2.  When they were clearly wrong, they made me pay for another 2 and would refund the money on the first ones.  Then when set #2 comes one has been opened and used and mising parts.  Confused yet?  Of course before it was all over they screwed it up.  But after weeks of trying to get their screw up corrected, they did not give us all our money back success.  How stupid is that, of course I kept a crossbar that was broken or one that did not fit my truck.  Who wouldn’t?  Finally got that straightened out.

Our local insurance agent for Allstate messed up big time.  When we changed companies, I thought it would be better but that mess is still to be resolved.  The whole issue is caused by our agent flat dropping the ball, at least that is what Allstate says.  So if they are your agent here in town beware.

Then the post office, what is there to say.  We mailed 2 checks on the 4th, one made Colorado 3 days ago, the other (The insurance check) had not made Dallas yet.  So now I have to pay to cancel the check and then phone renew.  Thanks Allstate and my local agent.

Of course there is more post office. We put a return paid government letter in the mailbox and for some reason they would not pick them up.  I just do not get them.  Guess that little red flag is something new.

And last but not least, Suddenlink, the worst ever.  Out local politicians last year made a bunch of noise, like they are want to do when they are really not doing shit, after so many consumer complaints.  Tons of complaints continue, and they have done absolutely nothing about the service. And Suddenlink for the last 3 months  (We have been customers for 13 years.) cannot do a simple auto pay, and then you get to talk to the dude in Timbuktoo (I am being as nice as I can.)  who promises to fix it the third time.  Any bets on whether they get it right?  What is wrong with the world?  What do we pay all of them for?

This was my Friday and Saturday.  Yeesh!

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We love bears!

So there is my current state of affairs.  I just want to go fishing!  Hopefully that will be Monday morning, though I have to cut the day short to get to the bank on time to cancel the check so I can pay the insurance company for their screw up.  And then off to the Great Smokies for some bear chasing.  So keeps stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

Oh Yeah – Woo Pig Sooey!!! How about those Hogs whipping Kentucky bootie!

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

It does not get any better than this.

We try to get to Terlingua and spend a few days in the parks at least yearly.  Such a quirky place.  We stay in a shipping container, one upscale shipping container, in Terlingua.  It is on a hill outside of town and takes a beast of a vehicle to get there.  As with most of the roads we drive searching for wildlife don’t drive your Corvette, or your Prius.  So, we were out first thing both days and as usual a good time was had by all.

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

For all your wading needs.

************** 

Big Bend National Park – Day 1

Our day started off with the drive to the hot spring on the Rio Grande.  It is near the crossing into Mexico where folks visit the town of Boquillas.  Of course, since Covid struck things have changed.

Our first morning hike on the Rio Grande and a test run on the knee surgery.  All good.

We took a short hike to test the knee and she ain’t broke down yet.  The weather was beautiful on this trip, except for that evening.  I have been in some wind in my life, including have a boat overturned on my head but that evening was special.  If I were guessing it blew somewhere around 60 – 70 mph plus.  From our place we watched a big yurt type tent bite the dust.  And the folks staying in the bus across the hill abandoned ship at some point.

It is a new day on the border.

These folks were right across the river from the hot springs.  Since the border has closed at the town of Boquilla being out in the desert in the middle of nowhere have lost their income from folks using the legal crossing.  They were selling lots of stuff, including tacos and would bring them across for you.  At several places across from the border you see hand made goods for sale.  Separate families had their own stuff, and it was all on the honor system.

Of course, they are not “allowed” to do it, and in the past, it was just one or two spots.  Now it is a lot more, but I appreciate the Park Service not being a pain in the ass about this.   These folks are suffering, and we sure hope they get the crossing open soon.  They are just trying to feed their kids.  And of course, we did not buy anything, we made a few “donations” and they gave us a “token of their appreciation”.   From there it was off for our real ride.

Plenty of history in the park.  Not sure why but folks place coins on the cross.  This was also an omen for one tough road.

Searching for wildlife in Big Bend is no easy task.  Not only is it a rough and tough landscape that can only support so many animals, with folks basically concentrated on the main roads stuff is in the way back.  As we do and will be doing in a couple of days in the Great Smokey Mountains next week, we get out there.  Time in the outdoors translates to encounters no matter which park you visit; it is just a matter of how bad you want it.  I wanted to drive a back road we had not driven before, Old Ore Road , which is 25 miles of some really narly stuff.

As we started down the road there were 3 folks behind us when we stopped at the grave, and then another truck came from the other way.  Apparently, he gave them the scoop on what they faced and they chickened out.  And with what they were driving that was a great choice.  So how narly?  It took us over 5 hours to drive 25 miles!  Can you say high ground clearance?  And then it paid off.

The Boss made a great spot.  Think he was the lookout.

We see you.

My favorite shot of the trip.

All of a sudden, the scream – Stop the truck!  She spotted 2 sentries on a big rock quite a way off.  Turned out they were the lookouts watching over a big group off Audads, one cool animal.  If you are not familiar with them, they are known as Barbery Sheep a native of North Aftica.  Basically, brought here for hunting ranches of course they escaped and now inhabit lots of the deserts of South Texas.   The parks consider them invasive, and in the state park when they do the Bighorn Sheep count via helicopter, they shoot them.  Another tell-tale warning on importing species that do not live here.  But they sure are cool animals.

Mom was wary!

See the baby?

As we moved forward around the rock another – Stop the truck!.  Momma was feeding her baby.  By time I got the truck stopped the baby hid, and momma gave us the hairy eyeball.  This is why we bought a long lens camera and why we spend as much time as we can on our search.  The desert is not Yellowstone, so it takes work to score, and today we did.

Everything is armed and dangerous.  It is a tough unforgiving life in the desert.

The first bunch of Javelinas run amok!

And then on the way back to the abode for filets on the grill that evening we spotted our first Javelinas.  Then we saw another bunch, they were definitely on the feed.  Some folks call them pigs, some call them skunk pigs, though they are far from a real pig.  They are actually of the Peccary of the Tayassuidae family.  (New World Pig)  There are 4 kinds ranging from South Texas into northern South America, and interesingly enough the island of Trinidad.  Tough little critters and cool to see.

We called day 1 a success and looked forward to tomorrow, though I was threatened with a whooping if I took her on anything near as tough as Old Ore Road.  But that is why I bought the Trail Edition 4Runner and the beast gets it done.

Day 2 – Big Bend Ranch State Park.

Always on the list when on the border.

It is about an hour from Terlingua and on the way we spotted a couple of buck Mule Deer which still had their horns.  For some reason they were not willing to stop and pose.  Last year we saw a big buck in the park, this year the viewing was a little tougher.

Hand and fingerprint petroglyphs in a rock shelter.

I have always been infatuated with the writings of the ancients.  It is too bad that there is not a better way to preserve so much of it.  Those of you who read this know I was adamantly opposed when the government started to cut funding to parks and wanting to sell our public lands.  That was so shortsighted and obviously proposed by folks who consider the outdoors to be a city park.

As we have traveled the outdoors extensively in the last 5 years and continue to do so, we could see it coming.  On this trip there was more people in the park than on our other 4 prior tips, combined!  The line waiting to get in the Starlight was around the building with a 2 hour plus wait.  We need to preserve every inch, they are not making any more land.  Plus look at the couple of pictures below.

The park is big as all outdoors.

What was the end game, filling lands as old as time with condos?  Maybe a mall? To improve the view?  We still need places where we can connect with our genetic heritage.  The lands and the animals are part of us and can never be replaced.  While solitude is getting harder to find we love seeing the “kids”, who’s numbers have really increased.  Camping, hiking, biking, and just hanging out, they will be the defenders of the public lands in the future, and I am hopeful for the future.

Everything in the desert will bite, sting, or scratch you, just ask my truck.

What do you see?

We took a hike into a canyon, spent some time at a watering hole, and just enjoyed the park.  The only thing was saw was these Javelinas crossing the road.  Behind #2 in line is her baby.  Look really closely.  As small as it was it could not have been that old.  As it got to the berm created by the road grader it was too small to make it and piled up and the next one stepped on it.  As they made the bush, I tried to get another pic as momma picked the baby up and took off to keep up with the others.  It is a hard world out there and these little guys are some of the toughest.

While we did not see much else, other than the sheer beauty of the desert we did stop at the ranger station and get some good advice for the next trip.  There is a one-way road to deep in the State Park that leads to a big valley with no other access which is now on the list.  Great petroglyphs, ruins, and home to most of the park’s bears, sounds spectacular.  The ranger said his wife thought the drive was a little sketchy so obviously we will be on it next trip.

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So let us review where we have been the last couple of months.  Moab, Arches, Aransas Wildlife Refuge, Big Band National and State Park, and will be headed to Great Smokey National Park in a couple of days.  Of all things we met some folks from North Carolina on a trail in the park who gave us some great tips on the area where we can hopefully see black bears, the purpose for the trip.  Since the covid our travel has changed, and we have kept most of it in country, which has been great.  Our first real big trip coming is Alaska, but I just learned that the Boss has reserved a train ride across Canada while I am at the Chandeliers in October.  She really has a travel habit for which there is no cure.

And last, today is the Boss’s birthday.  I cannot put into words how I feel about her.  Our life together has been full of adventure, she opened my eyes to the world of travel.  The memories it has given us, and those to come are priceless.  Get outdoors and see all this great country has to offer.  I love this country and the freedoms we enjoy.  Keep stopping in, will have more soon, and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

I had a list to do before heading to the desert and it was wonderful, everything went fast and easy.  Of course, it is now noon, and I am wishing I was at the lake.  But there are a couple of other things I can knock off before heading out tomorrow.  There is a front coming tonight and we go from a high in the 70’s to the 50’s.  I really don’t care about that, what is important – clouds.  Not happy about the north wind but at least it is not 30+.  When I got home and watched our local weather we had gusts of 37 – 40 mph Wednesday.  No wonder it was such a hassle but tomorrow is a whole new day and hope springs eternal.

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

For all your wading needs.

************** 

I actually put on my big boy pants this morning.  Heavy and flannel lined, they are warm, but not for a while this morning.  It was 37 degrees (18 windchill.)  when I put in at daylight and the wind was straight out of the north at a good 20+.  When I say it was cold, I am not kidding.  But off I went and considering the conditions it was a pretty good day, though my feet are stil cold.

The only spinnerbait fish.

It hardly needs saying, they were not where they were 2 days ago.  The wind was out of the exact opposite direction and cold.  When you combine that with the 43 degree temperature drop and it was no wonder.  At least the lake held a liitle of the temperature increase with most everywhere at least 60 degrees.  Since I did not expect them to chase a spinnerbait started with the A Rig and Pearl Knockin Tails and ended up catching maybe 8 or so.

The 2 best on the A Rig today.

What I did figure out was there was no real pattern today, or any particular place.  And that was the case with baits also.  Other than the A Rig it was 1 on spinnerbait and 3 on swim jig.  The swim jig bites came by reeling a 1/4-ounce bluegill color with a Greenback Knockin Tail trailer. All 3 I managed to catch hit it when I reeled through an outside bush.  Not sure it is the right color for that, may go back to the spoon and Knockin Tail when it warms back up.

A swim jig fish.  And I have no idea how many doubles I have caught on the Alabama Rig.

The one on spinnerbait came on a real spring type flat bank somewhat protected from the wind.  It hit on the first cast, and then not another bite on a long stretch.  Like Wednesday they were just not on the calmer places.   A little wind was needed even today.  I kept going back to the spinnerbait but with conditions it was not happening.  The A Rig fish came on banks going into coves, but nothing in the back ends.  The cove that was full of bedding tilapia was empty.  It was just a big cold front that had them a little off their feed but no complaints today, it was just a slow bite but one would jump on just enough to keep fishing.  Ended up calling it a day at 2:00.

As ugly as it was there was more and more bass boats.  Not sure if they were spawning or not, probably an out-of-town group with a tournament.  Ended up being the most boats I have seen on the lake this winter.  With spring on the way, and some fairly consistent fishing the traffic will increase but no big deal.  Everyone be nice and it will all work out.  Remember to be the bigger guy at the ramp and on the water, it is about to get busy.

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Michael was on the One Last Podcast which airs every other Wednesday on Facebook.  It is all things saltwater fishing and worth a listen.  He announced that the 5″ Knockin Tail in 7 colors is coming in the next week or so, keep checking.  As the 5″ bags are still stuck in the supply chain, boy we are all tired of that one, they will only be available online until the bags come in and can hit the stores.  It was really informative, and I learned a thing or two about the 5″ that I did not know.  Bigger rattles and a dimple under the head.  The dimple is for the weight to go in when you set the hook using a weighted swim bait hook.  It allows the hook to extend from the slot for an improved hook set.  So order some, I cannot wait to get my grubby little hands on some for some trout fishing, it should be a killer for shallow water winter trout.

And the 3 1/2″ is not far behind and will be available online and in stores soon.   I think initially it will also come in 7 colors.  The one I really like the looks of is the Glass Minnow, which as soon as that hatch starts should put the hurt on them.  At times when they are spawning it can be tough and this should help.  And there probably is a crappie or two in my future.  It will be complete line for all conditions, with a new product or two yet to be announced.  Getting these done in this environment is a credit to Michael’s efforts.

And I intend to attend ICAST this summer, and the Houston Show in March.  I really enjoy the shows, if you like talking about fishing they are the place to be.

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Not sure if this question is real or not, I get tons of spam but here you go.

Thanks – Enjoyed this post, how can I make is so that I get an email sent to me whenever you publish a new update?

Simple.  Just go on the right side of the page, put in your email and the post will be sent to you.  I appreciate any of you who sign up.  Thanks for the question.

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The new speckled trout record was set in North Carolina, breaking a decades long record.  It weighed 12.6lbs, one big trout.  But it is not close to Texas where the record has stood at 15.60 for almost 20 years.   As hard as folks have chased them over the last 20 years, and continue to do so, it just might be a record that is never broken.

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Next up is the desert.  Some animal watching, hiking, and sitting around a campfire with a hot toddy.  It is the start of a busy travel stretch.  At least Travis and then Ashville for the Smokey Mountains and some bear watching.  Not sure how I am going to fit Arkansas in the mix but if there is a will there is a way.  And it sure would be nice if the wind would take a little rest, really want to chase some trout.  We have a friend who is kind enough to let me stay in his place on North Padre, just a stones throw from the ramp.  It is going to be busy around here for a while, so keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

After looking at the weather again I decided to be on the water at daylight and see if I could beat the wind, in other words how long I could take it.  The wind was blowing right along and there was occasional sprinkles.  The water temp was still in the low 60’s and has not warmed up as much as it might have, but the biggest jump was way up lake where it was up 3 degrees.  In some areas the color was poor, in others it is real clear.  How close are we to spring?  The tilapia hit the beds big time and the bass will not be far behind.  If you are a bow fisherman the time is now.

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

For all your wading needs.

************** 

One of my favorite bites!

My plan and hope were to smash some on spinnerbait.  And fortunately, several cooperated.  They wanted it buzzed fast right below the surface.  There was only one problem, they were in the shallow bushes on points.  So great a pattern right?  It was if you could take it.

I cannot emphasize how hard the wind started blowing.  It was an easy 15mph+ increasing as the morning wore on.  They would not hit the spinnerbait in a cove with little wind.  Once I figured it out the wind was starting to howl.  It was freakin’ blowing a good 30mph.

Twins!

The bite started about 9:00, until then it was slow.  Several jumped on the A Rig with Pearl Knockin Tails but that bite is about over as it warms.  I could not buy a bite on a swim jig or the crankbait, so I finally toughed it out and headed for the wind.  It had to be moving the minute it hit the water, when fish this size and up hit a waked spinnerbait it is one ferocious bite.

I am using my last Buzz King from the lure company I worked for in the late 70’s.  It just so happened on one of my trips back to Mtn Home that I found a dozen, and alas, this is the last one.  It actually won $50k for a guy Tad sponsored.  The reason it is so successful waking is the wire is just a little finer than most and with a #5 willow it makes a huge wake, which the better ones like.

I did lose one other good one and had another make a pass at it and just miss.  But seeing them come out of nowhere and stop that bait is a thing of beauty.  It is so important to have it moving when it hits the water, why I switch hands on the rod while it is in the air.  Often they are right on the bank and if it is not waking they are not having it.  Additionally, it has to run straight up and down.  Rember it is a fleeing “gizzard shad”.  When there is little brush like Travis or Norfork I use a trailer hook, but on Coleto you have to throw it in the trash so no trailer hook.

Best I could manage on the A Rig.

While the A Rig will still catch them you can’t throw it to the bank or move it near quick enough.  The 3 or 4 that did jump on today were small and there is no way you could fish it properly after the wind really came up.  By 11:00 it was howling, and I mean whitecaps on the whitecaps.  Where the good bites came it was like standing on a beach ball while you fished.  The wind would take your bait wherever it felt like, making accurate casts tough.  And it was almost impossible to get more than a couple of casts before you were blown by. But the hour that they bit it was on, and while wishing will not get you much, I sure wish it had stayed at 20mph, it would have been a beat down.  But no complaints, anytime this size smokes a waked spinnerbait I am all in.

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Here is the Coleto Bassmaster Tournament schedule for the rest of 2022.

• March 19   Choke Canyon
• April 23   Coleto
• May 21   Choke Canyon
• June 25   Mathis
• July 16   Coleto
• August 27   Sommerville
• September 24   Coleto
• October 22   Choke Canyon
• November 19   Fayette
• December 10   Coleto

Good luck to all.  I remember what that was like.  Monthly club, 4 winter month Bass A Thons, the Federation Championship one year, and then the occasional random tournament.  I was really “mad” at those fish back then.  So the only question is there any talk about resuming the Wednesday pot tournament.  If any of you hear anything let me know would definitely fish a couple.

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Props to Montana wildlife officers.  Some fool killed a 56″ moose, which is a good one, then cut its head off and left him to rot.  Long story short they caught him 2 years later.  Then the court came through and fined him $12k, a 3-year fishing ban, plus a lifetime hunting ban in Montana.  That is exactly the behavior that is used by antihunters and fishers to justify the increased restrictions on our outdoor sports.  It is the behavior of folks like this, and knuckleheads on the water, that lead to further restrictions which we have to guard against at all times.  So good on Montana, he earned it.

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Looking at the weather it will be Friday before I get back on the water.  It looks like the wind will be much more tolerable and it will be cloudy.  Look out, the kind of great day I have had on Coleto in the past.  At least that is the plan. We are headed to the desert for a few days and I have several things to do to get ready for that.  There is no such thing as over prepared when messing around down there.   Our last trip down we saw folks walking out of the desert in a place where the highway is not that far from the border.  Always an adventure.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

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That was a bite, and a pretty good tussle.

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The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

************** 

I had a plan today.  With the temps to be in the 70’s and a wind that was tolerable I decided to head out later and fish later.  Not sure whether that was a good idea or not, but I caught an easy 15 so no complaints.  It was 9:00 when I started and 4:00 when I quit so definitely gave it the old college try.

First up was a deeper cove bank and right off the bat one smoked the A Rig and Knockin Tail.  Funny how it only took about 5 seconds and I knew it was a catfish.  Coleto is so full of catfish and catching them occasionally on lures is normal.  It was kind of a good thing/bad thing experience.  At first you think it is a big bass, and then let down a little when you realize it is a catfish.  But that one above was a good one and I will be happy to catch that size any day.

It was definitely a A Rig day.  They like the both the White Ice and Pearl Knockin Tail trailers.

I spent the day hitting lots of new places, places that will have fish soon.  The water temp was in the low 60’s in the main arm until right above the discharge cove.  The rest of the lake struggled to get to 60 in spite of the warm day.  The wind was fairly steady and was not what I would call warm, and the coves just did not warm up today.

The A Rig was the ticket all day.  I gave the swim jig a serious go in places that should produce and not a bite.  And one bank with tons of trash cranked the spoon and Knockin Tail and that did not produce a bite.  But keeping the A Rig in the water kept the bites coming.  On one point 4 jumped on and I only managed to boat one, 2 of them opened the clip at the end of the arm, not sure what that is about but made sure after that things were correct.  A couple did the old slack line thing, which is so weird on the A Rig, you would think they would drop it.  That one has caught a ton of fish and it won’t be long until an arm or two breaks off, it is one messed up bent bait.

And the best I could do looking for the white bass.

Trying to find the white bass blew a good hour.  Right off the bat the one above jumped on a shad color crankbait.  After not getting a bite on a chartreuse I switched over to a Rapala shallow running Shad Rap and caught a bass right after changing, but then not a bite.  There were definitely more shad up the river than there has been but I am just not finding the white bass.  Not really sure if it is to late, or they are going to come soon.  The water temp remains 59 up lake and the color is not the best.  But with the sunshine and warm temps to come it should heat up rapidly and then we will know.

And speaking of that thinking about heading to the Hwy 59 bridge at George West to fish the river.  When it is good it can be some great white bass fishing.  Travis is definitely on the calendar, probably the first week of March after getting back from Asheville.  As you can guess I like catching them.

I give the day a B.  It would have been a little better if there had been a little better warming, but it is coming.  Definitely hard to complain when the fish bit in most everywhere I fished, just not the big one.  But hopes springs eternal and I will be out there everyday it is tolerable.

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There was some kind of dispute online, big surprise, involving a couple of lure companies.  Not sure what it was all about but representation, bait usage, and some kind of shade being thrown.  Here at fishcatchingtravel we have never actively recruited or attempted to get any lure company or product to come on board or give us anything, it has just happened in the course of things.  It has never been for profit.  (Trust me on that one!)  And using Michael as an example he has never said don’t use other folks’ stuff or else.  I use the Knockin Tails a lot for one reason, they catch fish.   (It is my blog and I can say and be whatever I want and owe no one lip service.  Like I always say, if you do not like it don’t read it.)  One thing those of you who read this know, anybody can send me anything they want, but if it is crap, not something I would use, or where I stayed that sucked, it will not get a mention.  I have tried over the years to not denigrate or comment on some of the crap I have encountered.  But there is always an exception.  Now that I think about there is something you can send, money!  Do that and I promise to talk nice about you.

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And I got this nice comment from Randy.

Doug, I have enjoyed your posts a lot since I retired 8 years ago. I’ve learned a lot and will continue to do so. I don’t know what I did or what my iPad did but in order to see your photos, I have to hit (see comments ) at the bottom of you post and the photos appear. Any ideas why? I only fish salt water at POC. Keep doing what you’re doing. Your anonymous reader, fishing buddy. Randy

Glad you are actually learning a little something, that is my hope.  We all just hope that the fishing at POC will be ok this year.  I know some folks are not happy about the new rules, but it should lead to a banner year next summer.  As far as the picture issue not sure what the problem is.  The only other comment about that same thing came from a reader in Iowa.  It probably has something to do with the way I do it, or the program and the interface with the Ipad.  But trust me I know just enough to be dangerous, and any technical issues is beyond my abilities.  Sorry I could not be more help on that one, I have been pleasantly surprised I have not screwed the blog up.  But I really appreciate hearing from you and hope it maybe helped you catch a fish or two .  And like I tell folks, if you see me down there hollar.  For those that don’t know it will be a grey 4 Runner and an 18′ Mako with a 90hp merc.  Just look for the Wade Right and Knockin Tail stickers on the console and the Hog on the engine.

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Victoria had its own civil disobedience march this week, and it was peaceful and really kind of sad.  I have long been a proponent of sharing our outdoor wealth and all stake holders deserve to not only their piece of the pie but also the right to be heard.  Oyster men came from all over the coast to picket and march in protest at the local TPWD office over the closure of oyster season on area bays.  They cannot make a living under the current rules and shortened season.  By the same token we can only hope and assume that TPWD is making their decisions based on the health of the resource.  It is unfortunate that the simple and tough lifestyle of the individual commercial guy is slowly becoming a thing of the past.  Never forget that these folks have families to feed.  So how this will this come out over the next few years remains to be seen, but it is sad to see that lifestyle slowly waning.  They are hardworking good folks who just want to earn an honest living.

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The only thing I currently know about future plans, the wind is going to howl.  Up to 36mph tomorrow, 46mph Wednesday, 30mph Thrusday, and only the high 20’2 on Friday.  So it will be day to day on where and when I fish.  Last a Happy Valentines Day to the Boss, I could have not gotten any luckier.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

It was cold and clear at daylight and it sure was pretty.

I crawled out of my warm bed at 4:30, which is not my favorite thing to do by a long shot.  But there was a method to my madness, and it worked out great.  The tide was going to be going out at daylight then a slow up most of the day, not my favorite tide.  I am a good trout fisherman on the falling tide and wanted to be on my old stomping grounds as it started to run, and my timing was perfect.  It was falling fast and for a while I smacked the snot out of them.

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The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

************** 

This was a real solid.

How early did I get to Froggie’s this morning?  I was the second truck in the lot after dropping the boat in.  It was really nippy but with no wind it was tolerable.  The water temp was 54 and it was dead slick.  On the way out I knew I was going to smack the snot out of them.  Every bird in POC was on the wing and feeding.  And not all in one spot but everywhere.

Starting with the Honeydew Knockin Tail on a 3/16th screw lock jig head got an immediate response.  (You can take the Honeydew from fresh to salt and not miss a beat.)  They were biting right along but I was missing as many as I was catching.  Now we are talking like a dozen over the side.  The bite was a sharp whack, and lots spit it before I could get a hook in them.  Here is a pay attention moment:  There is one thing I do know, when the hits are like that downsize the jig head.

It was a good run on the Knockin Tails.  You have fished the rest now fish the best.

So I dropped down to a 1/8th on a Purple Deamon Limestreuse Knockin Tail and it was game on.  Being calm it was the bite I love, sometimes it just did not sink, other times I could see the line twitch when they bit, and those are coming over the side.  Now the color may have had something to do with it, but I was not stopping though I did occasionally throw the Honeydew and they were still hitting it. If I were guessing, and I am, with their little brains at 55 degrees they were not that aggressive and just wanted to suck it in.

Good thing for them I was not needing a fish fry.  CPR on the whole bunch.

I really want to empathize the downsizing the weight trick which I learned wading really shallow water.  Once I got started fishing the 1/32 jig head I learned real quick that if they are smacking an 1/8th or 1/16th and not hooking up, go down a size.  Once I did that today they ate it and I missed very few.  You have to be easy releasing some of them, they just suck it in like a bass.

I

I know they are small but hey it was a “little” slam.

After catching plenty I tried 3 other places as the tide really got low and started to stagnate.  On one bar 3 rats jumped on, that was it for the redfish.  It really is easy to tell when they are taking a break and once the tide dropped out they were done, probably until later in the day when the water comes back up.  As it got low, I started to see lots of mullet on the shallow spots with the sun shining on them so it was beginning to heat some.  I am sure the fish would follow them to flatter places once the water comes up.

Called it a day at 1:00, happy with the results as I have not been To POC in a while.  Catching a couple of dozen qualifies as good in my book.  (And I did not lose my original Honeydew or Purple Deamon, or get them torn up in spite of having lots of bites.)  But that is what makes this time of year what it is, the fishing can be good and consistent both fresh and salt.  This time of year is great to not be a one trick pony.

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And this from SA Joe.

Ive seen some BIG SHAD, big catfish and bigger bass eating them….

CRAP 75K for a study, STATE RUN offices are idiots….for that much can have billy bob put in a ramp……..same fiasco with i-10 closed down when it got cold. divert traffic to one lane on the other side of highway with both lanes open….Idiots !!!!

Have fun fishing, might make that run this week or beginning of next. Havent been on coleto in alot of year. 19ft Bass Cat, white. Grey 1500 Dodge hauling it

The fishing has been fun, now I am getting greedy.  Just waiting for “that” day.  Cloudy, drizzling, following a warm trend, and that day will happen anytime in the next couple of weeks.  The only downside, it is that same day I will be looking for on the bay.  Tough choice.  And the ramp thing should be a no brainer.  Here is my feasibility study results:  Falcon needs more ramps period, much less at this low level.  Just build it.  Falcon has been a little off for a few years, but when it comes back, and it will, there is no such thing as to many ramps.  If you fished it during the heyday you know what I am talking about.

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Tomorrow I have the pleasure of taking the Boss’s car to Cedar Park for service.  Not sure that is a day of rest or not but it will not involve fishing and will give my trashed hands a break.  Driving through Austin the long way can have its moments, but since we are less than impressed with the Toyota dealer in Victoria it is worth the drive.  In spite of that I will be thinking about fishing and where or what is next but there will be more trout in my future.  Time for a little wading.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Today was a double-edged sword.  It is absolutely beautiful out there, sun shining, warmed quickly, and not a breath of wind.  The no wind thing really slowed the fishing down, I saw multiple fish turn off on the A Rig today, it was a little much without the wind.  But the good part?  Today and the next 4 or 5 are going to heat the heck out of the lake, and the spawn will be on.

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

The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

************** 

It was just a little nippy at 38 degrees when dropping the boat in.  There was not a breath of wind, and it stayed that way all day.  As far as water temperature it was 56 at the ramp and later I found a creek with 60 degree water.  The water color is everything from clear to dingy depending on where you are.

Still catching them 2 at a time.

I stuck with the A Rig and Knockin Tails basically all day.  The plan was to get the big bite and I gave it the old  college try but just could not get it done.  For that ball of bait thing at least a little breeze helps.  They did bite some, but the 3 pictures today is the size of it.  The other 5  or 6 were small.

What is interesting is how rough this fish, and several others the last week look.

Besides where I have been catching them I fished 4 or 5 new places, and maybe a bite here or there but that was it.  One of the places is one of my favorite spring places, and I did not have a bite.  What makes that place special is it is a bend in a small creek, but the last 2 years there just was not enough water.  Hopefully that will not be a problem this spring.

This poor guy was all strung up.

So what did not work?  1 small on a jerk bait. zip on the swim jig, towater minnow. maybe 3 or 4 on the Honeydew, none on the spoon and Knockin Tail.  I really did fish correctly if that makes any sense.  Maybe right place wrong time, but as an example where I caught 7 yesterday not a bite, flat gone.  It was just tough.

And boy did I cover water, ended up fishing my spring places in both arms.  The fish were flat gone out of any grass or cover, at least what I fished.  It would have been better to just toss plastic to wood, but I was determined to get the big bite.  I am willing to fish hours on end this time of year for that bite, just watch me.

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It may be the law but it is more than that, it might save your life.  If you have not seen the video from the Rockport area of the runaway boat doing circles at high speed after tossing the owner click here

Empty boat does donuts around owner after he’s thrown overboard, Texas video shows (yahoo.com)

At least he had his inflatable life jacket on, which probably saved his life.  Please wear your life jacket and kill switch.  It is really simple, get the light inflatable, and leave it attached on the seat when you fish and it will remind you to put it on.  Those of us who grew up in the wear your seatbelt change would not now drive without a seatbelt.  That is an area that bass fishing is way ahead of saltwater fishermen, but it is changing.  If not for you then for the folks who love you.

And to go along with that a woman was found on Lake Texoma after drifting 2 days on a inflatable.  It was during the front we just had, which was a lot tougher up there.  There is nothing more to say but:  Really!

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I forgot to mention that once I caught the catfish for the Boss I needed one more fish so I kept a 15″ bass, which we both like to eat on occasion.  Both it and the catfish were full of shad, and not midgets.  They were about the size of a Rattle Trap.  And I saw one struggling on the suface this morning, it was a gizzard shad about 4 ” long.  So take that for what it is worth.  Coleto is a shad lake.

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I read the guy at Falcon Lake Tackle, who can be a hoot at times.  He reports TPWD has allocated $75K for a feasibility study on putting a ramp at the state park on the lower end of Falcon.  Feasibility study?  $75K!   Forget the study and put the ramp in right now, the lake is really low and there is no ramp there as folks launch off the bank.  No need for a study, just build the dang thing before the water comes back up.  It will not get any cheaper and my guess is you can put one in for that price.  Simple.

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Not sure what is up for tomorrow but it will involve fishing in some form.  The weather is great, but a little more wind would sure be appreciated.  (Whoever heard a fisherman say that?)  Might just get up first thing and head to the Gulf.  It has been a while and a change of scene might be just what I need.  No matter what keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines