FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

I am not the best traveler around.  After a few days I start to wear down some.  There is only so much good food to eat, old stuff to see, and miles to walk before I am ready to take a break.  But since we are here in Charleston I did some research and am headed out tomorrow to fish with a guide.

The east coast is so different from our area.  Tides here commonly 6 – 8 feet, with miles and miles of marsh.  The area is aptly called the Low Country, amazing how much marsh there was on the 150 miles of coast we have traveled.  It all looks fishy, guess we will find out tomorrow just how fishy it is.  And I have a bag full of Knockin Tails to feed them.

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The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

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20 mph out of the North!.  43 degrees after a 34 degree drop – Must  be time to go fishing!

To say the weather deteriorated would be an understatement.  It was freakin’ cold, the wind was steady straight out of the north at 20, it was definitely was flat crap, so obviously I was still up for a day of fishing.  Searching online I managed to find Charleston Saltwater Guide Co which turned out to be fortunate.  With conditions as tough as it was  Crawford did a yeoman’s job.  Capt. Crawford Bishop was born and bred here and started chasing fish as a young guy with his jon boat.  He told me he would go out and just get lost.  And after seeing the area it is a maze of channels, rivers, and creeks, and getting turned around would be easy.

Amazing how blue this guy was.  Totally different from most we catch.

We met at the ramp at 10:30 to catch the last couple of hours of the falling tide, the slack, and the first hour or so of the rising. (To give you an example of high different it is from our tides, this one was almost 7 foot.)  Crawford had just sold his Maverick flats boat and his new one is on order.  So we ended up fishing out of a 18′ Beavertail poling skiff and I will give it credit, it was rough and it handled it like a trooper.  (Todd)

To say it was tough is an understatement.  One of the first banks he put us on there were groups moving down the bank, the water was off color as the wind pounded and I had something happen that I would not have ever guessed.  They would not eat a Redfish Magic spinnerbait, or a Knockin Tail.  They were just not wanting it, which was no surprise, if they will not eat a Redfish Magic in off colored water it is tough.  He picked up a popping cork with a shrimp and caught the one above, so I gave it a toss and got my just reward.

How hard was it blowing – filled my hood, hope my head is not that big!

The tide was falling hard and try as we might we could not get another red to jump on.  They were clearly off their feed.  Crawford put us on multiple places that should have fish, and we saw them here and there, but like all fish everywhere the front really had them messed up.  So with them not having it we started hitting some of his favorite docks but they could not be coaxed out.  Then the Knockin Tail saved the day.

Think Texas has oyster bars?  No, these are oyster bars.

When we hit low tide it was real clear how different things are here.  2 hours before I took these there was 3 – 4 feet of water on them.  The Charleston area is called the low country for a good reason, there is literally hundreds of miles of marsh.  It all looks the same, and I mean good.  Which would make it tough on a first time visitor, it all looked fishy.  He made a move up a creek to a dock to see if they were there and on my second cast I got that great thump.

We were staked off and went to wacking them.

The dock we were fishing was on a small bend in the creek where it happened to be an 8′ foot hole and the trout were right on the bottom seeking shelter from the front.  I was throwing the Mansfield Magic and after boating 3 or 4 Crawford took off his shrimp and went to the Pearl Limetreuse.  (Like I continue to say, fish the Knockin Tail and you will get hooked, just like the fish do.)  You almost had to drag it as most were not really  hitting it but you could feel them messing with it.  It became a feeling contest, just an easy drag and then let them eat.

They were all the same size, nice solid trout.

Not sure how many we boated in that spot, but it was one after another for a while.  He told me these were respectable trout for this area, and he was actually surprised we did not hit one here or there during the 6 hour trip.  I was not particularly surprised, the weather absolutely sucked and if I was home there was no way I would have been on the water.

Crawford with a rat.

We found out we had fished many of the same places so we had plenty to talk about.  He had fished Port Aransas, Louisiana, Florida, and many places in between.  (Any fisherman that would head to Bimini from Florida on a 22 foot boat to chase bonefish is my kind of guy.)  While he guides all types of fishermen he is actually a die hard fly fisherman.  Not only reds and trout, he has a several week period in the summer where they have a run of big tarpon, and his results are good for putting his customers hands on some every summer.  I would have definitely given the long wand a go under different conditions, but it just was not happening.

So a very successful day considering.  As a guide he was first rate, and as a person even better.  One thing I learned a long time ago when I was guiding, it is not all about the fish.  Of course that is the reason for the season but it not all there is to a successful day for your customers.  Having fished with some real rear ends over the years, see Baffin’s big time guide, he was a breath of fresh air.  After seeing the area I can see how under good conditions it was be a real killing.  I give the day an A, which considering the weather is a great day.  So take a look at his site, if you ever get this way give him a call, you will not be sorry.

Home – Charleston Saltwater Guide Co. (charlestonguideco.com)

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As you know I look at boats for sale in Texas regularly and see some crazy stuff.  One today had the following justification for the price:  “If you think this is high go price a new one.”  Ok, first off it would be a New One.  Second, including that disclaimer where you are already admitting your price is way to high would not seem to be a good sales tactic.  And last, the boat is 13 years old and the book value is not anywhere near that.  If and when you are looking at boats be sure to know exactly what it is worth, not what the seller thinks.  Because should something happen and you have to sell it you will never get anywhere near your money back.

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This one takes the cake.  Deck Boat for sale.  (The picture is a bass boat.)   And straight from the ad:  “new centerboard cable and wood burning fire place. Reverse cycle Air Conditioning and Heat. Standing rigging inspected and running rigging in great shape.”  That is one amazing deck boat!

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And the insanity continues.  Pictured is a Crestline Aluminum, a deep V boat common in the north.    OMG!:  “This boat has oiled teak interior, a varnished teak and holly sole cabin floor. There is no cheaper interior tub, furniture is tabbed to the hull for better stiffness, and quieter.”  Either lay off the crack or or where in Nigeria do I send the check?

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And one more.  This is for a $30k Skeeter.  ” Im not sure how many hours are on the engine and don’t want to pay 120$ to find out. However I’m very confident that its still below 100 hours.”  Trust me?  Run away.  This is a 6 year old boat that should have been serviced at least 5 times since purchase with no question as to the hours, which are done on each service.  All he had to do is call the service place and get the last hours, which would have been close enough for government work.

As a side note Crawford and I were talking about hours and his last Maverick had over 100o hours in 3 years, mine has over a 1000 right now.  It is all about service and treating them right.  Running wide open all day long is not that.  And Carolina Skiffs are prevalent  in this area and are a great boat for what they have here.

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Cruising the coast in Georgia and South Carolina I realized one thing – traffic on the interstates is like a school of baitfish.  Bunches come together weaving in and out, sticking close, hoping the predators (Cops) don’t get them, but get the other guy.  Think about it.

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A little comment on our travels.  We have done our share of big cities here and abroad and it really has been amazing how little we have been panhandled in Savannah or Charleston.  It has happened a time or two, but no big deal compared to some places, Austin as an example.  Sorry but if you are saying you are hungry, but drinking a brew or smoking a cigarette, there is absolutely no chance your panhandling efforts will be successful with me.  Now the guy in NYC sitting on the sidewalk with a sign saying he needed money for beer – Ok, at least he was honest about it.

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On this trip I really want to compliment the folks we have dealt with in Georgia and South Carolina.  The cities were great, really safe and clean, and so nice not to be constantly panhandled.  And the folks are so glad to see you.  It has been tough on the businesses here just like at home.  I would like to give folks credit for their behavior, masks are the rule and not much of that “Covid is fake” crap.  Now if the Boss will get the vaccine shortly life will start to get back to normal.

And on another note, really glad to see the airlines mandatory no excuse mask requirement.  If you do not want to wear one ok, but just the same as you feel it is your “Right” to act as you choose, it is their “Right” to require masks and social distancing.  Don’t like it, don’t go, simple and fair for all.

And one last comment on that, if you know the rules in advance don’t bitch when they are applied.  Just saw a family removed from a plane as their 2 year old would not wear her mask and was howling her little butt off.  Sorry, you knew it when you bought the tickets. Having listened to a child throw a tantrum from Houston to Greece nonstop for 19 hours it was not fair to the other couple of hundred folks trying to sleep.  Sorry for the rant.  (And sure am glad that child rearing thing is over for us.)

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I am sitting in the motel room and we are getting ready to check out and head to the airport.  This has been fun trip, but if I eat another spectacular meal I am going to need a new wardrobe.  We finished off last night with a wonderful Greek meal, and as big fan of Greek beer it was nice to polish off a couple of their cold ones.

The fishing possibilities here are endless.  It finally dawned on me that it is actually closer than South Florida so a return trip with the boat is already in the planning.  There are untold creeks, rivers, and back lakes to explore and every bit of it looks like spinnerbait country.  But tomorrow it is back to real life, which means one day to get my shit together, and then back on the water.  It has been a welcome break but time to get back at it.  A big thanks to Crawford, made my trip.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

After a short trip today I will be back at it Tuesday.  It be the first time I have the good fortune to fish with Michael, owner and designer of Controlled Descent and Knockin Tail Lures.  I do not have a clue how it may or may not go as I have heard nothing.  I have ignored things the last week or so.  But I am really looking forward to it as Michael is a good flounder fisherman, and I just might know where a few are in spite of my poor flounder fishing abilities.  So we will be meeting first thing and see how it goes.  (And it will be the last fishing for awhile as the Boss and I are off again.)

Weather

44/72.  Sunshine with no chance of rain.  Wind W 5 – 10mph.

Tides 

High  4:13 am.  Low  7:27 am.

Solunar Times

Major  6:10 am to 8:10 am.   Minor  12:48 pm to 1:48 pm.

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The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

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

Couldn’t resist the Knockin Tail.

We met at the ramp and were headed down river by 7:00.  It was as low (High Tide) as I have seen it this fall.  The water temp was 53, give or take a degree.  While it was not quite as clear as last time, it was ok.  The wind was flat calm.  First stop was my favorite place and we started catching them right off the bat.  And for about two hours or so the bite was fine.  Most were small to borderline trout with a few rat reds mixed in.  We probably caught just enough today to keep a limit of trout but they were no great shakes.

That thing was nothing but a fattie, it sure is one good looking red.  Of course on the Knockin Tail.

I wanted to try another spot up river above the bridge and I don’t think we caught a fish.  The best spot where I usually get them was quite a bit off color compared with down below.  After maybe a half hearted bite or two we headed back down.

We ran into Redfish Lake just to take a look when I noticed a couple of birds working the shoreline, but it was maybe a foot deep and a really long cast from the boat.  We could see them feeding, then they just charged off the bank pushing a bunch of water right at us. Michael hooked up immediately with the one above.  With my superior skill I threw in, hooked up, and lost it.  Then on the next cast I hooked up again and managed to lose that one too.  Unfortunately that happened to me several times today, as in at least 4 or 5, hooked up to a good fish and then gone.  Definitely out of practice.

My best trout on a Pink Ice Knockin Tail.

We drifted just a little in there and only caught a rat so we headed back out to the river.  First point zip, next bank, a couple smalls, then one last pass on the “good spot.”  The tide was out and the water was moving just a little, but it was as much wind as flow.  Instead of bites in one area it turned into just catching one here or there as we drifted down river, but they were biting.

This one ate a Knockin Tail and then puked up a really big mullet.

I caught most of mine on the Purple Demon Limetreuse Knockin Tail and the rest on the Pink Ice.  Michael stuck with the Pearl and White Ice most of the day.   As usual I stuck with the old hop and drop off the bottom, he actually varied his retrieve more but as far as bites went, it was just a keep it in the water and something would tug.  Michael added a small flounder for his slam, but that was it in the flounder department.  You never know.

The fishing was slower than it has been, at least for the better trout.  I just wonder what was up with me today, getting them in the boat was a problem, and some of them were good fish.  But no big deal.  We caught them most of the day and talked tackle and plenty of fishing.  His company is doing really well, which I knew would happen the minute I saw his Controlled Descent Lure, and now the Knockin Tail has taken off.  So my compliments to Michael,  anytime you can make a bait they eat you are in business.

So around 1:30 I called it a day as it will be an early morning drive, we should be eating dinner in Savanah by supper time.  I give the days fishing a B,  but we had a good time and caught some fish.

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Monday was spent in San Antonio at a hearing center, hopefully for some relief from this tinnitus that started when my left ear went deaf.  Unfortunately Chris and the Doc tried what they could but no luck, it may never clear up.  This is the 3rd place that has told me that, so time to learn to live with it.  Who knows, maybe some other options will appear but I am not all that hopeful.  As I repeatedly say, it is hell getting old.  Good thing it has nothing to do with a good hook set!

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And thanks to those of you who sent along your comments on my little break.  By time you read this it will be on the road again, and it will be dark around here for another long week.  But then it will be back to “normal” and I am looking forward to seeing how the weather has affected the lake fishing.  Definitely interested in seeing how the Coleto Bassmasters do this weekend.  And Michael and I hope to be heading to the bay later for some wading, so good times are coming in the fishing department.

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The Reason for the Season

Wren and Mia.  The best grandkids a guy could have!

It was great to see the Grandkids and my parents, with this virus it has been a while.  And though we are Covid tired we are still doing our best with the masks and distancing, waiting for the Vaccine like the rest of you.  Finally there is light at the end of the tunnel.  So stay safe, thanks for stopping in and reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

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FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Hope everyone had a safe and happy Thanksgiving.  The Boss worked a little and I messed around the house to get a few things done that needed doing.  And finally have the Carolina Skiff ready to sell, as soon as we are done with a little travel will part with it after 20 years, which was one job that needed doing.

One thing I can say about the Carolina Skiff, if there was enough water to float it, or on the biggest lake or bay, it is a real workhorse.  The Everglades or Falcon, it does not matter.  Snook, tarpon, blue cat, bass, crappie, walleye, stiper, trout, reds, sharks, and who knows what else, have come over the side.  It has been through 3 engines and it keeps on floating.  It is literally unsinkable,  and no matter what I wanted to do it did without effort.  Other than getting a little wet no matter the conditions it always got back to the dock.  She may not be pretty but for 20 years it has done its job.  So it will be like parting with an old friend, but keeping up with it has become to much effort for how little I used it the last couple years.  Nothing is harder on a boat than letting it sit, as evidenced by how much work I put in to get it back to snuff.  Hope whoever buys it will appreciate it, it should be good for another 2o years.

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The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

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

Our weather is finally coming around with a couple of inches of badly needed rain and cooler temps.  In fact, the lake is on the rise, which combined with the air temps which will be in the low 40’s tonight, should get our fish to thinking winter and then pre-spawn.  The question will be how much of the rain made the creek and river, and whether it is muddy and hurts the fishing, or if it drives more trout in from the bay.  That will be something that will not be clear for a few days, you never know.  Over the years I have seen a couple of rains that killed the river fishing, and a couple that just slowed it down some before it took off.

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I was thinking this Thanksgiving about my fishing, and I have so much to be thankful for.  The Everglades with its tarpon and snook, the Great Barrier Reef and a couple of marlin then visiting the hallowed ground of the Cairns Big Game Club.  (So many world records, so many great fishermen and women, made me realize how small many of our fishing worlds really are.)  Puerto Rico and my first marlin.  And how about Costa Rica with big mahi mahi and sailfish, 3 personal bests on Falcon Lake in 24 hours, the list goes on.  Bonefish and Permit in Belize, giant muskie and big smallmouth on Lake of the Woods, rainbow trout on some of the best rivers in America, it has been an adventure.   And just hitching up the boat and heading to Louisiana, Florida, and so many other places, without a clue but the hope in my heart and a boat full of stuff.  So here is just a taste.

What a great trip this has been!

So I just wanted to let you all know that we will be spending some time with the grandkids and parents, it has been a while.  And for me, a little break.  This is going on 10 years, and this is the 1,357th time I have written.  (Most of those a report on some fishing, that is a lot of fishing!)  Timing can be everything in fishing, and in life, and this next couple of weeks will be a welcome pause.  Because a pause is all that it is, and after that I will be itching to be back on the water so stick with me,  I will be back fishing and sharing it with you.  I appreciate all of you who read this drivel so keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

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FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

It really is true, let a boat sit and things just happen.  I spent all day on the Carolina Skiff.  Running lights, bilge pump, and anything else that needed working on.  It is headed to “For Sale” and this morning the plan was to take it out and make sure all was good.  Only problem, the trailer lights were acting up, and I do not tow anywhere without good trailer lights.  To bad I did not mess with that  yesterday, so instead of working on them today I headed to the lake.

Weather

68/83.  Breezy and very warm with times of clouds and sun with a 25% chance of rain.  Wind S 15 – 25 mph.

Lake Level

Today  93.11 msl.   93.07 msl.

Solunar Period

Major  8:13 am to 10:13 am.

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The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

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

The buck gave both of us the slip.

I slept in and when I got up it was cloudy with a moderate wind.  So after messing with the skiff hitched up the Mako and off I went.  Unfortunately by time I got to the lake it had cleared off and the wind was howling 25mph right out of the south.  But hey, since I am there might as well give it a go.  Turned out to be a less than stellar morning.

A good start, to bad it was the finish!  Swim jig with a Knockin Tail trailer.

Heading up lake about the only place where it was remotely fishable was way up river.  The clouds were coming and going so I started with a spinnerbait and buzzbait and after fishing a mile of bank it was obvious that was not working.  The wind was just howling and moving me right along so I switched to a crawdad looking swim jig with the Knockin Tail trailer and caught this one right off the bat.  I actually watched this one eat it as the jig came in sight right beside the boat.  That usually means a couple of things, reeling to fast or the color is just a little off.

For the next 2 1/2 hours I fought the wind, and made one really long run to hopefully find something not so tough.  But whether it was pounding on the bank, did 2 of those, or not quite so bad, not a bite.  I added a white swim jig with a Pearl Knockin Tail to the mix and still could not buy a bite.  So after all that I called it a day.  There was just no sense in fighting it when the fishing is so freakin’ slow.  So at 1:00 it was back to the house.

So the day did not go anywhere near how I planned.  Did not run the skiff, slept in and missed the perfect conditions, it was all wrong.  Not sure what is next, not even sure if I will pick up a rod much for a while.  We are off on a couple of trips, and apparently the bass are waiting for winter just like I am.  (Trying to figure out when I can make Falcon, looks like the bite is starting to heat up.)  At least there is a front coming next week and we might see some 30’s at night, which in my wildest dreams will help the lake fishing.  But I am starting to lose hope.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

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FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

I took it easy today and did not hit the road until 10:00.  Tried to time running water and it worked.  The only problem with that is it is a small tide day and when it dropped it was just barely a foot if that.   The water temp was 71 and the wind was blowing a steady 15 mph right up the river.

Weather

62/83.  Patchy fog in the morning; otherwise, very warm with intervals of clouds and sunshine with 10% chance of rain.  Wind  ESE 5 – 15 mph.

Tides

Low  11:36 am.  -0.1 feet.

Solunar Time

Minor  Period  11:27 am  to  12:27 pm.  

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The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

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

It was a tough first couple of hours, in fact not even a touch after fishing a mile of bank.  No matter what I threw they were not having it.  As I came up on a drain things started to change.  As I lifted up it was soft, and then it let go, flounder.  So right back in the same spot and a nice one jumped on.  Of course I did not have the net out so as I tried to get it out he came off, shades of last trip.  Next cast I got it done.  I am not a flounder fisherman by a long shot.

The Mansfield Magic catches them.  No giant but it will do.

From that point on the bite was on.  Whether the Mansfield Magic, Purple Demon Limetreuse, or the Clearwater with a tail dipped in chartruese, they were chewing on the Knockin Tails.   The 1/8th jig heads is right for most of the river.  Caught a few on the Four Horsemen popping cork, but hopping the Knockin Tail off the bottom was clearly the way to go.

Fishing is fun, and catching while you are at it is even better.

The best area was a little deeper with a sandy bottom.  At first they were off the bank but as the bite got wound up they moved to the bank.  A couple were there before it hit bottom.  Today they wanted it hopped up a little higher, and hit it right as it started to fall.  That is actually tough to get a hook in them at times as there is quite a bit of slack.

No big fish today, just lots of eaters.  They were smacking the Knockin Tail.

So it was all good, until trouble showed up.  There is one thing I hate more than a dolphin messing it up, it is a smart dolphin.  So I hear him blow and he is right behind following me along getting some easy pickens.  And the bite slowed immediately.  So now the great plan, just pull up and head back down to right before they started and re-fish it.  But guess what, no stupid dolphin here.  He actually followed me back down and started trailing me again, and he definitely ended the bite, which worked out fine as I was getting ready to quit.

It started off slow but when the bite was on it was an easy 20+ and the majority would measure.  I did lose a couple that felt bigger but who knows, it was good fishing.  I fished about 4 hours and half was good.  One thing I like about the river is compared to the creek it seems the fish are just a little bit bigger.  The only hitch in the git along was 3 yahoos in a flat bottom just moved right in on me.  Oh well, one thing you learn fishing in Texas is folks are just plain rude.  My revenge, them having to watch me catch 6 or 8 before they moved on.  Other than that a great day to be on the water.

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And this question from Lee.

Hey Doug,
Glad to see you are on the mend. May I ask what size and where you get your jig heads from? I’m needing something a little larger than a crappie jig head for a larger silver grub on Lake Travis. The one you’re using looks perfect for the larger grub. As always, thanks for allowing us to vicariously live through you. Always read and appreciate your reports.

Lee

Many of the ones  I am using right now are from Arkansas, I picked them up last spring.  In the Twin Lakes area of Bull Shoals and Norfork grub fishing for smallmouth and walleye is a usual practice and luckily there is plenty to choose from.  One of my regrets when we moved to Texas so the Boss could go to school was selling my lead pot and molds.  I know exactly what you are looking for, which is basically a solid 1/16 jig head with the proper hook (Finer wire, just a hair bigger than most crappie jigs.)  and a keeper for the plastic.  Unfortunately I am not much help.

Here is one that I have had good luck with on lighter baits on the bay, and you can find them at Bass Crap or Cabela’s at times, or order them direct.  The hook shank is long but the weight might be something in the range you are looking for if the length does not detract from the grubs action.

https://bagleybait.com/spoons-jigs/shaky-head-jig/

And as far as jig heads go the price has gotten stupid ridiculous.  Before a guy I have known for over 30 years died he would pour them to my specifications, at $30 a hundred.  Look at your local tackle store and they are $5 for 4 or 5, what a rip.  So my suggestion would be to first define what you need in hook size, then weight, and then see if there is any local guys who make jigs and give them a call.  At least you might be able to get what you need/want.  So good luck with your search, or drive to Arkansas hit up any of the small tackle stores, which might be a tad far to buys some jig heads.  Thanks for reading.

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My buddy Rusty commented that he was having some trouble understanding the tides.  Welcome to the club.  The one way I have finally come to grips with not really being all that sure about the tide timing is going with the flow.  It seems to me that the tables are a guide at best.  The real point of all this, is the ability to recognize when it starts and when it ends, which at times the fish will do for you.  It is learning where to be when the time is right.  Sounds simple huh?  If you have it figured out it would be great if you would share with the rest of us.  After fishing Florida for years before fishing Texas it was really tough.  A big tide here in Texas is just getting warmed up in Florida.

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Finally got the new garage door in and will spend some time this weekend working on getting the garage a little cleaner and more organized.  And if I can keep my head in the game time to do a few things to the skiff and get it sold.  It will be a great deal for someone who can not really afford the ridiculous boat prices, and it is a great all around boat.  Then Monday it will be back at it, maybe POC a day or two and will be looking for a boat partner for Amistad.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

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FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

I decided to fish this afternoon on the lake.  The cleaning lady is coming this afternoon and since I am kicked out of the house it will give me a chance to fish the last period before dark to see if there is some kind of evening bite.  Hopefully the last few cool nights are dropping the water temp some which should help, but that remains to be seen.

If I stay real still maybe no one will see me.  This was a big one.

Weather

58/81.  Warm, periods of clouds and sunshine with 0% chance of rain.  Wind  ESE 5 – 15 mph.

Lake Level

6 days ago  93.12 msl.   Today  93.07 msl.

Solunar Time

Major  Period  3:45 pm to 5:45 pm.  (At least the timing today is something.)

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

The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

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

When dropping the boat in at 1:30 the wind was out of the north east around 15 mph.  The water temp was 75 at the ramp and 72 degrees way up lake and there was not a cloud in the sky.  There was one truck at the ramp, as it has been the last few trips.

A look at the ramp. 

The white pole on the right is the edge of the drop off at the end of the ramp.  A little more drop and the ramp just might be out of play.  But hey, when I complained about the high ramp fee I was told it was for maintenance and improvements, which must be coming any day now.  So be careful as it could be a axle buster.

Before the afternoon was over at least half of that worked out, the other half not so much.  Instead of fishing for bass until I can not take it I decided to do the following.  Fish whites until 3:30 around the time of the major period then finish out the afternoon bass fishing.  Dropped the slim minnow bait and the Pearl Knockin Tail on a 1/8th jig head and it took exactly 2 minutes before the first one jumped on.

They like the Pearl Knockin tail and the slim body minnow bait.

2.5 mph, 50 feet behind the boat, and hold on.  Today the little better ones were farther up the river, where there was lots of water under 4′ deep.  They were smacking it and it was 50/50 between the Knockin Tail and the minnow bait.  It is a little tough trolling in that shallow water, and if a person were so inclined they could easily be caught casting.  So after putting 16 or 17 in the boat it was time to bass fish.

I specifically fished several completely different places.  Points, channel banks, wood, I tried a variety from up the river to the dam area.  Buzzbait, swim jig, and plastics all got a work out.   Shade, no shade, wind, no wind, you get the point.  I intentionally fished 2 places with wood that are sure things, nope.  For 2 hours it was a water flogging failure.  The moral of the story, I do not have a clue.

When I took out a couple of guys in a jon boat came in, they pit in after I did, and said they did ok.  So of course I asked and he said spooning.  Since it seems they are on the shad, and my results surely do nothing to disprove that, it may be the way to go.  So take it for what it may or may not be worth, but it makes sense.

At least the deer were feeding.

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It is good to here from SA Joe with an interesting question.

Got a question about the water you fish.

When your using that Knockin Tail, what is the clarity of the water?

I have flopped in rockport, Aransas pass, South padre using similar baits. Zoom fluke like baits and caught nothing…or just have to be in the right place??
Thanks
Joe

First answer, last weekend on the bay the bigger reds were in 2′ of water and it was clear enough I could see some of them literally eat the bait.  At other times the water is hardly clear, though given a preference I like it with just a tiny bit of color.  A little different from most guys on the coast I fish 8 and 10lb clear mono, never heavier, and use as light a jig head as I can get by with.  And then it is a matter of determining how they want it, from dead slow roll to aggressive hop.  Example: last time out they wanted a nice soft double hop and drop, about half of them were there when I lifted up.  So that is the basic mechanics.

As to the second question, I know you are a big bass guy as I am/was, and one thing we have to learn is that it is just not like bass fishing.  While bass obviously school, it is often pattern style fishing.  Trout and reds hang together, and often with each other, and it is usually simple, are they there or not?  But like all fish, they like change, edges, drops, points, and most of all water movement.  Combine a change and water movement and if you are not getting bit time to move.

Right now we are in our usual fall to winter pattern on creeks and rivers coming off the gulf.  Of course normally it is colder right now, but the fishing is ok considering.  It is the one time period where they come out of the bay and into the rivers and creeks for some security from the really cold weather, which we have not had yet.  A couple examples now is the Lavaca River, the Barge Canal both here and in South Padre, and any other river right off the bay or Gulf.  This will only last a while, water and temp dependent, but until then that is a good place to start.   And  the nice thing, it is just like grub fishing for bass.  The real punch line, I throw it anywhere on the salt.  So hope this helps a little.

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Tomorrow they finally come to replace the big garage door so will have to stick around the house.  But at least I can get back in the garage, just won’t be putting the Mako in it as I have an nice carport for it.  And when I get the Carolina Skiff sold the garage will only be half full.  Then Friday God willing it is definitely back to the salt.  There is a technique that I have been mulling over for the river, until I try it it will drive me nuts.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

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A Great Deal From Four Horseman Tackle

If you fish a popping cork and have not tried the Four Horseman popping cork, or even if you are currently using them, here is a GREAT DEAL.  They have been kind enough to give my readers a discount. It will be a 20% discount so get them while the getting is good.  What a deal.  Use the code 4H6 at check out to save some serious bucks.  No better time to stock up.  (I will leave this up for the time being, you never know when you will need some new corks.)

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FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

My life now is on full weather watching control, and with it my fishing choices.  Until this present weather pattern, which is beautiful for walks in the park, cahnges it is not full on winter fishing yet.  Of course looking for that couple of days of clouds, drizzle, etc and it will be off to the Upper Laguna for a chance to catch a big trout.  But until then will take what nature gives me weather wise, which in tomorrows case means heading to the river.  I really have a case of fishing boredom right now.  I need a trip.

Weather

43/76.

Tides 

Low  9:10 am   -0.51   High  9:13 pm  1.46.   (Looks like some actual tide movement.)

Solunar Periods

Minor  8:21 am to 9:21 am.   Major  1:43 pm to 3:43 pm.

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

The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

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

 The Lord Giveth…………

You know the old saying about the Lord Giveth and the Lord Taketh Away, today was the exact opposite, first he taketh away.  I was fishing along, had caught a couple of shorts, when I stuck a good trout that looked like it was around 25″.  But when it got to the side of the boat I realized the net was still in the hold, then it jumped off.  It was tough losing that fish, so I got the net out and 15 minutes later it saved the day.

Now that is a flounder.

The tide was up when I got to the ramp at daylight.  The water is still fairly clear and the water temp was 70 degrees putting in and 72 on taking out.  The wind was blowing straight out of the north, since the air temp was 48 it had a little bite to it.  It was blowing right down the pike, good thing it was around 10 mph or it would have been a hassle.  First up was my favorite bank on the river.

Since I had the Pink Ice Knockin Tail on from the other day I  started with it.  The water was not moving initially and it got a bite or two, but all were small.  Finally the water started falling out and with it a little better bite.

They were loving the Mansfield Magic.  Talk about a fattie.

And then the Lord giveth back.  As soon as the water started moving I put on the Mansfield Magic Knockin Tail, which has been my go to all fall.  A few casts later when I went to lift up it felt like dragging a log.  The log turned out to be the flounder above.  Good thing the net was out.  Unlike a lot of flounder who barely have it this one had it so far down in his gullet that I could not even get the bait in mouth picture.  And since it was on thin 8lb mono it could have been bitten off at any moment, that thing had a mouthful of chompers.  It was the biggest flounder I have caught in quite some time, and maybe my personal best.  But either way talk about a big bite, this was it.

Several trout like this, just measured.  And here is the rat for the slam.

For the next hour they kept biting as the water ran out.  Some were shorts, and some just keepers.  2 rat redfish made the boat and another small flounder.  Basically the fish were on 2 places.  Best was a big flat point, almost like fishing a channel swing on freshwater.  Concentrating on the flat to deep stretch.  And of course drains, there are several on the river, and when the water is falling out they are a no brainer.  Today they wanted it hopped off the bottom, not extremely aggressive, just a double hop and let it fall to the bottom.  No interest in slow roll or since I only threw it a little, no bites on the popping cork.

To finish off the morning I headed under the bridge and into the The Lavaca.  That spot is my “Why did I go fishing with the wind blowing 25 out of the north with the temp the same.”  It is a last ditch place when the weather is to tough for the big river.  There were a few smalls there, which makes sense.  It just has not gotten cold enough to drive big numbers of fish that far up.  Which is why the fish are being caught farther down the river.  And last, on the Lavaca it almost as simple as putting down the trolling motor and head down river and fish.  Of course they are in specific places, but just moving down river you will bump into bunches here and there.

So not a bad morning.  Catching that flounder on a spinning rod with light line was cool.  And there was just enough trout to keep it interesting.  Have a couple of chores tomorrow then back at it.  As I said it is weather watching time, which will dictate where next.

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

What was I thinking?

I should have known better, but there is always hope.  Shopping at Bass Pro for what is now 46 years, (Ouch!) starting in 1974 when living a couple of hours outside of Springfield Missouri, I have seen tons of changes.  It has gone from a fishing/tackle store to nothing more than a department store.  And with that comes sales associates who know nothing and are happy to share that with you.  The issue, their oil.

When you look it up on their website it says the following:  “Formulated and safe for use in direct Injection outboard motors – NMMA Certified”.   So simple question, is it ok for my Optimax?  So I go to where else, the boating department.  And I meet Mush for Brains.  We go to the oil display and I ask, can I use this in my Opti?  At this point it is obvious he does not have a clue.  He does not know what his company says about their oil, in fact I have a feeling he does not even own a boat.  So he says the following, if you use any oil but Mercury it will void your warranty.  Which is not only not true as long as it meets the NMMA requirements for that engine, but does not answer the question.  And then he says he would not use their oil.  (Yikes – Great employee.)  From there it is just a shaking my head experience.

The moral of the story, Bass Pro has no more to do with Bass or professionals employees than the man in the moon.  That it would hire someone in the boating department with absolutely no knowledge of their products, or their use, makes zero sense.  So just remember next time you need some fishing/boating advice try your local marina or tackle shop, they probably have a clue.  All this guy had to do was say I do not have a clue, and he would have been right.  Suffice to say I did not buy their oil.

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More Fun with Spam

This comment from Bernardine on my post about the Austin Boys.

Great article. I will be facing many of these issues as well.

Did not know you are planning on fishing with the boys.  I feel for you, fishing with the Austin Boys does take a certain amount of intestinal fortitude.

And this from Aaren on a recent Coleto Creek post.

If you want to use the photo it would also be good to check with the artist beforehand in case it is subject to copyright. Best wishes.

Astute comment Aaren,  since there was not a picture on that post.  It really is amazing now often many of these comments are recycled over the years.  I have never figured out the point, but one thing is obvious, they do not read the blog.  It has actually lessened some but there is no way to do away with it, it comes with the territory.

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

The only other news around here is I am going to try one more place for some relief from the roaring in my left hear.  Really nuts not being able to hear but I can sure hear the tinnitus.  The Boss found me a place in San Antonio, and confirmed I do not have to have another hearing test.  Had 2 and they agreed, just looking for something to take this to a dull roar.  It really is irritating.

Glad to feel that early morning cool temp, we need some more of that.  It will only help what is actually pretty good fishing from all reports.  And boy were they shooting some ducks this morning and I saw my first big flock of snow geese.  Fall is almost here.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

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

A Great Deal From Four Horseman Tackle

If you fish a popping cork and have not tried the Four Horseman popping cork, or even if you are currently using them, here is a GREAT DEAL.  They have been kind enough to give my readers a discount. It will be a 20% discount so get them while the getting is good.  What a deal.  Use the code 4H6 at check out to save some serious bucks.  No better time to stock up.  (I will leave this up for the time being, you never know when you will need some new corks.)

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

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Proudly Representing

I am a certified crazy person and a glutton for punishment.  So with those character flaws I am loading the stuff and heading to the lake.  Will be there just in time for the major period, what that has to do with anything I do not know.  Time to quit getting mad at the bass and get even.  Whether that will happen is a mystery, but you don’t know unless you go.

Weather

65/85.  A passing morning shower; otherwise, very warm with times of clouds and sun with a 50% of rain.  Wind ESE 5 – 15 mph.

Lake Level

Monday  93.10 msl.    Today  93.12 msl.  (Wow, up a touch and the ramp is a little better.)

Solunar Period

Major 9:57 am to  11:57 am.   Minor  1:28 pm to 2:28 pm.

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

The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

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

The water is up a hair, definitely clearing, and was from 78 to 80 degrees, which is nuts for this time of year.  So it was another beat down, but it is me getting beat down.  I can honestly say I do not have a freakin’ bass clue.  The deal was, either catch them after 2 hours of fishing or else – and guess what, the or else was 1 bite.  This is crazy.  So at this point the only way I will head back to the lake is when we get out of this weather pattern, especially if we get some rain and clouds.

I really do not know what to say, but the ramp is a pretty good indicator of how things are going.  That would be only one boat dropping in when I got there, and not another truck at the ramp.  In fact, when I took out one more truck was there, making it a total of 3.  Whether it is the terrible fishing, or GBRA’s successful effort to run folks off, it has worked.  Remember after I complained about the rate increase their response:  for park upgrades and maintenance.  How reducing revenue leads to increased maintenance and upgrades is beyond me.  But I digress.

The guys putting in when I got there were younger guys in an Express.  They got outside the ramp cove, put the hammer down, and took off right like they were headed into the fishing pier cove, promptly hit the point which is really shallow a long way out.  As I took off I made sure they were both still in the boat before I headed out.  Oh to be young, dumb, and bullet proof.

So after 2 hours with one about 8″ taking a pass at a bait I gave up and decided to go catch some white bass.  And they were still there.

Notice that 3 of the above were caught on the Knockin Tail White Ice.

It is so weird to see the occasional schooling activity in the middle of the day with no wind and hotter than hell.  It seemed like the big schools of shad would pass over an area and here would come the white bass.  It was mayhem at times with multiple doubles.

Trolling for white bass is not simply dragging something around and seeing what jumps on, though occasionally that works.  Today was a little different than it has been as the fish moved up into water that was in the 4 foot range.  Once I figured that out I used the small shallow running minnow bait and the White Ice Knockin Tail on a 1/8th jig head, both running in the 2 – 3 foot range.  As usual about 50 feet behind the boat at 2.5 mph.

I did that for an hour of so and finally had a couple of simultaneous mishaps.  With a double on as I was reeling the one in on the casting rod I managed to hit the release bar and ended up with a monster bird nest, which led to reeling it back over the birds nest.  Then I reeled in the one on the spinning rod.   I went to cast the spinning rod out and somehow managed to toss my Knockin Tail off.  So with that, and the big bird nest, it was definitely time to call No Mas and head to the house.

I literally am left speechless, the fishing is that tough.  And it is easy to see with so few folks out.  It really is to bad, one of the best bass lakes around is nothing but a shadow of its former self.  And it has the feel that GBRA does not give one crap if folks ever come back.

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

I have a rhetorical question:  Why in the world would anyone want to hold up fish for a picture that other folks caught?  One of the things I just don’t get.

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

I did see something on Facebook that is actually worth it, other than the bragging stuff, an ad for a lithium battery company.  The main take away, an 11 year warranty.  I can only guess how many batteries I have gone through in 11 years.  If I was rigging a new boat fresh or salt they would be on there with Power Pole’s new battery center.  Talk about solving battery issues.

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

My phone is finally crapping out and time to head to the phone store and take the screwing like a man.  It is hard to fathom how much new phones are.  Especially in my case where I will dump all the apps except for the weather.  I refuse to be that person in the restaurant, bar, family gathering, etc with their face buried in their phone like there is something so seriously important that it can not wait.  One thing you learn as a medic, there is nothing that won’t wait.  Life is to short.

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

Not sure where is next but it is getting time to take a trip.  Amistad or Falcon, one or the other is calling me.  Time for a big bass fix.  Otherwise will be fishing the creek or river until we get a weather change to see if it had an affect on the lake.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

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

A Great Deal From Four Horseman Tackle

If you fish a popping cork and have not tried the Four Horseman popping cork, or even if you are currently using them, here is a GREAT DEAL.  They have been kind enough to give my readers a discount. It will be a 20% discount so get them while the getting is good.  What a deal.  Use the code 4H6 at check out to save some serious bucks.  No better time to stock up.

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

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Proudly Representing

Put your favorite Knockin Tail on the Four Horseman popping cork and hold on.

Garcitas Creek

Today I waited around hoping the garage door folks would come but they were a no show, so it was 9:30 before I made my first cast.  The tide was up, as it has been, the water color is exactly like it has been, tannic, and the temp was 77 – 80 degrees.  The wind was light to nonexistent and it was already hot.

Weather

68/87.  Very warm with periods of clouds and sun with 15% chance of rain.  Wind ESE 5 – 15 mph.

Tides

Low 7:13 am.  0.77.   High 10:15 am.  0.88 am.  Low  6:32 pm.  0.44.  (Fairly flat tide day.)

Solunar Periods.

Major  9:05 am to 11:05 am.  (Yep, close.)

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

The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

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

Today I just wanted to catch a few fish and enjoy the day.  The weather really is something, not what I am looking for this time of year, but no complaints when it is this nice.  The only plan, toss the Knockin Tail and see what happens.

A good start.  The only red today.

With little wind I decided to fish a little more on the deeper side.  The Purple Demon Limetruese slow rolled with a heavy 1/8th jig head was the ticket first thing and they were smacking it.  I did notice later that depending on the  bank it was either slow roll, or hop and drop.

With the water moving 8 jumped on in the first 2 stops when I saw my buddy Rusty, Kirby, and the English Guy.  They got there early and had been beating  them senseless.  Reds, flounder, and trout.  The Mansfield Magic is killing the reds  (The color for me too!) and when they got into trout the Pink Ice with a tail dipped in chartreuse was the ticket.  He said when the tide was running good early they caught the snot out of them.  Nice job, glad I don’t have to clean them!  They were quitting and unfortunately so was the tide movement.

They were literally eating the Pink Ice with a tail dip.

From that point on, and for the next couple of hours before I quit, it was alternating between the Pink Ice and the Purple Demon.  Now that I have had a chance to throw multiple colors of the new Knockin’ Tail this fall the darker colors have been the best, though I have not found a color they will not eat.   And other colors will have their time, just depends on the time of year and the forage.

The better banks tended to be deeper, and other than the mouth of a lake, none were all that much better than the others, but all would get you bit.  But I do believe as warm as it has been they are not as interested in the softer/shallower bottom banks.  They warm during the day, which normally can/should be the place this time of year, but it isn’t anything special right now.

A good representation of what is in the creek right now.

Like the other day several sand trout jumped on, and fishing the mouth of the lake with some wind blowing in it they were mixed in with the trout.  Most of the trout were small but it was a bite every cast until the dolphin joined the party when I was about to put the Power Pole down.  The water was only 2 foot deep and he was making a mess of things.

I fished one more bank and caught 4 or 5 and had one that just jumped like crazy, which is always weird when that happens, and it happened twice today.  It might have had something to do with having it all the way down in their throat.  Of course the day would not be complete without losing at least 1 good trout, and I managed to lose 2, one was a real one.  It was not fast by any means but it was a steady bite.  As long as you had a bait in the water you would get bit sooner or later.  Lots of actions, enough keepers to keep it interesting, and very few boats made for a great day.  The creek is a wonderful destination and fishing it is one of my favorite places to fish in Texas.  Just something special about it.

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Sorry if you get an email or two saying I had posted, it was just a brain fart.  The program I use changed a couple of things and one is the buttons for save and publish.  Definitely hit the wrong one so that should be about the last time that happens.

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

Thanks to my Dad and all the rest of the Vets who served our country and has made it what it is.  And to those families who have made the ultimate sacrifice, we will never forget.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

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

A Great Deal From Four Horseman Tackle

If you fish a popping cork and have not tried the Four Horseman popping cork, or even if you are currently using them, here is a GREAT DEAL.  They have been kind enough to give my readers a discount. It will be a 20% discount so get them while the getting is good.  What a deal.  Use the code 4H6 at check out to save some serious bucks.  No better time to stock up.

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

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Proudly Representing

Put your favorite Knockin Tail on the Four Horseman popping cork and hold on.

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

Weather

68/87.  Near-record temperatures with low clouds and fog and 2% chance of rain.  Wind  SE  7 – 13 mph.

Lake Level

Today  93.10 msl.    1 week ago  93:07 msl.  (Holding steady.)

Solunar Period

Major 6:31 am to 8:31 am.   Minor  1:28 pm to 2:28 pm.

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

The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

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

I am not ready to completely throw in the towel on the lake, there is plenty of whites and crappie for eating, but man the bass fishing sucks for me.  When I dropped in at daylight it was foggy, but not fogged in, so idled to my favorite point.  I missed one on the Controlled Descent Jerk Shad, and to make a sad story short, it sucked from there.  Fished spinnerbait, crankbait, swim jig, buzzbait, and plastics with only one more bite, and like the first one it was small.  So 2 bites in a total of 2 1/2 hours of bass fishing.  It was bad enough I almost headed to the discharge, but that is not happening.  Not that hard up yet to fish in the bucket.  At least I was able to fill the boss’s order for a fish fry tonight.  One comment on the major period.  I have learned just because it is a major period does not mean you are going to catch them, today was a perfect example, but often when you smoke them it is during the major period.

The white bass have not left up lake, and there are a few crappies and small bass mixed in.  It was an easy 20 total in a little over an hour.  They were a little  shallower in the water column and the best baits were a Pearl Knockin Tail on a 1/4 ounce jig head and a shallow running minnow bait trolled at 2.5 mph 50 feet back.  I needed 5 for supper as the whites are not all the big, but since I prefer eating the smaller ones they are perfect.  I added one nice crappie and decided to fish two more places.

So down lake I went and ended up fishing 3 banks with zip.  I believe it has a lot to do with the water temp.  It was 73 at the ramp when I put in, and stayed around 75 when I quit at noon.  The water has come up just a hair, you can tell it at the ramp, and it is clear over most of the lake.  I sure wish winter would get here, it can only help.  Unfortunately we are in what looks to be a pretty stable weather pattern for the time being.

It will be back to the salt until we get a weather change.  It is so disheartening how the fishing has declined on Coleto.  I miss the “Good Old Day” when there was a legitimate shot at catching a big fish every trip out.  Might be time to review what other options there are to see it it helps any.  Who knows?  I just might be so off with what I am doing and it has nothing to do with the fish.  Boy that is a 2 edged sword if you think about it.

I will leave the Four Horseman link up so if you need to stock up on some corks you can save some money.  They sure work for me.  Not sure what days I will be fishing this week, hopefully the garage door guys will show one day so I can get back in my garage.  Other than that nothing on the schedule but fishing.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines 

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

A Great Deal From Four Horseman Tackle

If you fish a popping cork and have not tried the Four Horseman popping cork, or even if you are currently using them, here is a GREAT DEAL.  They have been kind enough to give my readers a discount. It will be a 20% discount so get them while the getting is good.  What a deal.  Use the code 4H6 at check out to save some serious bucks.  No better time to stock up.

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