FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

The Wade Right Fishing Belt

Brought to you by

The Best Wading System on the  planet

A big hand squishing the Michelin Man.

The usual Monday morning trip to Coleto was just about exactly like it has been as far as numbers and size.  The lake is dropping like a rock (A trend I hope slows down.) and the water is clear as a bell on the lower end.  The upper end is clear enough, but fishing out of the skiff today not sure on the water temp other than hot!

Weather

96/76  (Heat index 104)  Partly cloudy with a 60% chance of a thunderstorm.  Wind  SE  10 – 25 mph.

Lake Level

16 days ago  96.15 msl.  Today  95.77 msl.   (It continues to drop.)

******************The Knockin Tail Lure with a built in tail rattle!   Look for it this winter.

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I was fishing by daylight way up river and today there were more bites than usual, but the hookups were tough on plastics.  Another day of them eating the plastic off the hook when I tried to stick them, should have used more patience but it is hard when they are swimming with it.  They were on wood and I was just pitching to visible cover and getting a bite here or there.  Before the morning was over 10, give or take a couple, hit the stick worm, a beaver style plastic, and a smaller worm, all watermelon red.   And most of the bites were shallow.

The best of the morning, and what the rest of them looked like.

I ended up fishing from one end of the lake to the other before I quit, and most areas produced a bite or two.  And it was nice that I also caught one on a crankbait, a Bang O Lure, and buzzbait.  No real pattern to it on those baits, though they are still schooling in some of the coves.  They are tough to catch as they are not in big bunches, but I did get the one on a crankbait out of a school.  And of course my nemesis made an appearance.

He smacked it and actually jumped.

Catching catfish while bass fishing has become a regular thing on Coleto.  I do not know what to think of that.  Is there such a thing as to many catfish?  Might be.  The lake continues to be in transition, and I am withholding my judgement on the fishing until we actually get into “real” fall.

But not a bad morning, lots of bites and I caught on 6 different baits.  Of course that does beg the question:  What is the “right’ bait?  I will hopefully answer that as we have rain coming, we so need it, and with that improved fishing.  Tomorrow is some Honey Do things with the Boss off, then it will be another lake day and a bay day before the week is out.  But realistically I am in a semi holding pattern waiting for that first norther to blow in and signal fall.

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But the crappie on Coleto are still biting like mad for those chasing them.  I saw Mr. Crappie and stopped and asked how it was going.  His response: 50!  Now he has been fishing them weekly for as long as the lake has been in existence, but the fact remains they have been biting all year and some are real slabs.  So if you like a fresh crappie fry get some minnows, tight line them on deep trees, there were lots at this level, and catch em’ up.

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Football Chat

It was a big football weekend and being both a college and pro fan I enjoyed every minute of it.  First up was the Army/Michigan game, and it was a dandy.  Losing in overtime, Army has nothing to be ashamed of.  I personally like they way they play, smash mouth so stop us or we eat up the clock.  They fought till the end but it was not to be.  But one great football game.

I was excited to watch A&M/Syracuse, to bad it was awful.  Not sure how the Aggies got ranked so high but they looked out of joint, untimely penalties, and Mond looked pedestrian at best.  Historically A&M is 2 – 14 versus teams ranked #1 and they were clearly outclassed.  They definitely have some work to do.

Next was the Nebraska/Colorado game and it was another dandy.  Colorado was down 17 in the second half and it ended up in OT at 31 all.  Colorado showed some real heart winning in OT.  And congratulations to their new head coach, what a win.

On the other hand Arkansas sucks, plain and simple.  And the switching with 2 quarterbacks is a recipe for disaster.  When was the last time a team doing that worked.  There was a little defense but an unispiring offense.  I project 2 – 9 if they are lucky.  Texas on the other hand looked ok against LSU, who made significant strides in their offense thanks to a new offensive coordinator.  Their prospects look good.  Texas is not out of it but they have some work to do.

And last – “How about those Cowboys!”  Dak has taken a lot of criticism but Sunday he was really solid with 400 yards, 4 touchdowns, and no INTs.  Even Zeke got in on the act.  All the usual Cowboy drama aside, it looks like they are going to be a real handful.  Jerry Jones said in an interview last year that we would not believe the size of the check he would write for another Super Bowl.  And he has done/is doing just that.  They have all the tools on both defense and offense to get it done.  The rest of the league better watch out, they are loaded and the time is now.  I really like football, can you tell?

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Are You Kidding Me!

I went to Ground Zero shortly after 9/11.  It was still smoldering and folks were walking around with pictures of loved ones.  It was a moving trip, and as a former medic and an American it touched my deeply.  So freakin’ sad.  And now the Taliban have been invited to the US this week!  Not sure how our longest war will end, but they supported Bin Laden and let him launch the attack from there.  And our brave men and women have given their lives fighting them.  There is no scenario where any Taliban should ever set one foot on American soil, and if they do a double tap is appropriate.  They are still killing us.  Sorry to get off topic but sometimes I just can not help myself.

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Still waiting on the Mako so I can get it fixed for good and get it back on the water.  Funny how you get used to, and rely on, the electronics.  GPS, downs can, temp, all common these days, so fishing without it takes me back a decade or two.  But at least with the skiff I am still mobile and there is one upside, it had not been used like it should so the next couple of weeks will fix that.  And I appreciate hearing from any of you, good, bad, or indifferent, I love all your comments.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

The Wade Right Fishing Belt

Brought to you by

The Best Wading System on the  planet

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Astoria Oregon

How could you not like this?

Our limits of Chinook Salmon.

******************The Knockin Tail Lure with a built in tail rattle!   Look for it this winter.

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Though our trip to Oregon involved 3 completely different places I wanted to start with Astoria.  (More to come on fly fishing and Portland.)  The plan was to stay there a couple of days and maybe catch a few salmon, and boy did that work out.

Astoria is at the mouth of the ocean where the Columbia River dumps into the Pacific.  And that is where the famous Columbia Bar stretches for several miles at the mouth.  It is where the US Coast Guard trains in the winter, braving swells that can reach 30 feet.  Many a mariner has been taken by the ocean, and the memorial is a sobering place testifying to the danger of “crossing the Bar.”

The Boss putting one in the boat.

The town itself is my kinda town.  It is all about the fishing as it has been for a couple of hundred years, and still is to this day.  (And the food and eats, much less the craft beer, are top notch.)  So we hired a guide to take us out, and it was one of the best choices I have ever made in a guide.

From the Great Barrier Reef to the Texas coast I have had the pleasure of fishing with some good, and some terrible guides, but right off the bat I want to compliment our guide, Capt. Mark Charlton of Charlton Deep Sea Charters.  There are guides, and then there are fishermen, and the Capt. is the real deal.  No one trick pony like so many others, he gets it all done and I could not recommend him any more highly.

2 things I did not expect to see today.

With a legitimate 30 years (And that is low!) of experience he crabs in the winter, and yes it is just like the tv show.  He fishes for tuna, crabs, salmon, sturgeon, bottom fish, and halibut to name a few.  He started on this father’s boats when he was 6 y/o and has been at it ever since.  I could tell you more but enough said.  He and his mate Nick went above and beyond and it is the best money I have ever spent on a guide.

The Cape Meares Lighthouse. 

He fishes out of a 50 foot commercial fishing boat, the Ruby Sea, the boat he uses for all his pursuits.  We booked it because it had a head, one of the Boss’s requirements.  He can fish up to 20 but when we got to the dock it was just us.  Nothing like a 50′ boat to yourself!  I am so impressed he took us out with no other fisherman.  Most would have cancelled, but he took us and it was a blast.

There were tons of boats fishing as it was the holiday weekend, including a pontoon boat  (Nuts!) on the ocean.  We started at the mouth of the river and like so many first time experiences we had a few hitches in our git along, all angler inexperience.  I lost the first one, right at the net, then the Boss had an interesting experience.  You have to reel them in at top speed because of the seals and sea lions.  As she reeled in a nice one you could see a big sea lion tracking it and unfortunately it ate.  It was a big one that only got her salmon, it was hooked up.  What a struggle until the mate finally broke it off.  We finally managed to land a keeper, and Nancy did land a wild salmon (Only hatchery fish are taken to preserve the genetics.)  which was immediately released, then the Capt. said lets head to the ocean.  And that is exactly what I am talking about, we were getting some action but the Capt. was willing to load up and run that big boat several miles outside the Bar to get better fishing, and we did.

Our hotel.  Love the early morning walks along the Columbia River.

We were tolling a 3 hook rig with an anchovie following a big dodger and a dipsy style diver, which most were caught in the 25 foot range.  It is interesting to me that they rig the bait to spin, so different from most techniques.  And from then it was game on.  We lost a few, boated a limit, had a few moments of mayhem with potential doubles, short strikes, we had it all.  Capt. Mark and Nick were great, fun, competent, both a credit to the profession.  And to Nick, you could have given us more crap for our start and it was all in good fun.  The dude can handle 20 fishermen at once if that tells you anything about his abilities.  If you ever get out there, and I highly recommend the whole Astoria experience, they are the real deal.

https://www.ifish.net/charlton.html

Astoria was all about the old canneries. 

We stayed on the river and most of Astoria is an easy walk.  I ate clams, crabs, shrimp, and who knows what else.  The breweries were great, everyone we met was friendly, and I really do hope to get back to do it again.

This may sound crazy but I want to come back when they are commercial fishing and act as a deck hand for a day or two.  As a boy growing up in the corn fields of Iowa the ocean was a thing other folks did.  But I have always been drawn to it, and fishing with them only peaked my interest.  So Nick, I really meant it!  (In fact if the incompetent counselor I had in high school who told me I would never got to college had told me if you join the Coast Guard you get a boat and a gun I would have signed up that day.)

Want to see what the Bar is all about.  Cpat. Mark sent me this and it says it all.  And Capt. Mark is interviewed while commercial fishing during the show.  Some crazy stuff!

My kind of town – all about the fish!

The Seafarer Memorial.  Sobering.

Tribute to brave rescuers of the Coast Guard.

The memorial, listing folks who have made the area their life, was a humbling experience.  I went back twice just to take in the hundreds of names.  It really touched me in that fishing place that exists deep in my soul.  So many lost, but all doing what they loved.  It does not get any more sobering, or uplifting, than that.

Paella.  Seafood, followed by seafood, then some more seafood.

And the finishing touch – We had our filets vacuum packed and kept them on ice for 36 hours for the trip home, then TSA took all my ice packs as they were not totally frozen.  But a kind bartender (He got a nice fat filet for his kindness.) filled our bag with fresh ice after getting through security and they made it home as fresh as they came out of the ocean.  It was our first meal at home and we are good for months.  Great fish and great memories, what it is all about.  Thanks guys!

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I could go on and on, and there will be more on our trip in the next day or two, but you get the picture.  But life goes on and it is back to reality.  Still waiting on the service to get done on the Mako, then to New Braunfuls to get the part for the tunnel and hopefully it will be back on the water soon.  With clouds and rain coming I will definitely be hitting the water in the skiff.  It is still hot but with the clouds and drizzle it is definitely fishable on the bay or lake.  I appreciate you sticking with me on this little break but fall is coming and with it back to the serious fishing.  So keeps stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

The Wade Right Fishing Belt

Brought to you by

The Best Wading System on the  planet

******************The Knockin Tail Lure with a built in tail rattle!   Look for it this winter.

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I have one great wish for when we get back, that this weather to have settled some, at least as far as the heat goes.  As I get older it gets tougher to handle that 1o5+ heat index.  Cold?  No problem.  Sometimes I get trapped in the old I can go anytime so not today.  When you can go whenever you want it seems easier to blow it off, waiting for the perfect conditions.  But one thing that can be said for that plan, it does work.  Cloudy, drizzle, light rain?  Whether bay or lake it is time to go.  So weather dude, want to see that forecast when I get back.  Who knows, the Mako might be close to ready to go.  And speaking of that, the part is in New Braunfels waiting to be picked up so one more step and good to go.  But the best made plans………….

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RIP Theophile Bourgeois

He was one of the great Louisiana fishing guides and from all reports an even better human being.  He was often on fishing shows, some with Bill Dance, where he flew his float plane to the Chandeleur Islands and they jacked them up.  He was an accomplished pilot and well known guide.  In fact, watching him fishing there made it a bucket list trip for me, one I am fortunate enough to have fulfilled thanks to him.  He left us to young but his memory will live on, all it finally comes down to.  My condolences to his family and friends.

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After Mac’s comment the other day I heard from SA Joe on his early lure.

Doug,
When stationed in Dayton Ohio, my neighbor across the street was talking about the Shyster. I said YEAH right your a Shyster. Don’t hold it against me, Now this was from Google definition, =a person, especially a lawyer, who uses unscrupulous, fraudulent, or Deceptive methods in business. Thought he was pulling my leg

He got me one and it has so much action compared to a rooster tail. Good lure…

Funny you should say that about attorneys, “unfortunately” I don’t take offense.  Watching the disciplinary actions of both the Texas and Arkansas BAR some in the profession leave a little something to be desired.

I have caught tons of trout on the White and North Fork on Rooster Tails, but don’t remember ever owning a Shyster.  One thing about the Rooster Tail, it catches trout, but they sure do not hold up worth a darn.

Lures have come a long way but we often “forget” about the old stuff that still works just fine.  A couple of perfect examples:  Rapala balsa minnow, Hula Popper, and the Jitterbug.  In fact, if you think about it so many baits are simply a variation/improvement on those 3.  Those examples:  Bang O Lure and jerkbaits, Chug Bugs, Pop R’s, and the like, and finally my favorite, buzzbait.   Thanks for the comment.  And if anybody else has a favorite old lure would love to hear it.

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I can’t say it make me want to cry at times, but occasionally I do tend to whine some.  But the picture really does say it all.  As an example over the last couple of years I have spent big bucks to get the Mako just like I like it.  Then the plate falls off and here we go.  At times I think the KISS rule is the way to go.  The more complicated the more issues, it comes with the territory.  Why I have kept the skiff for what is going on 20 years.  Simple, easy to clean and tow, small efficient engine, it is basically jump in and go almost anywhere there is most any kind of water.  And other than engine checkups no need to take it to someone else to do stuff.  And unless we can figure out a way to walk on water  (That is already taken!)  it comes with the territory.  Better have a good wife!

I was living in Arkansas in 2000 when I bought the Carolina Skiff.  At the time you just did not see them up north.  Folks often commented at the ramp that it was a “real” fishing boat.  And it has been.  From tarpon to bluegill it has caught it all.  And no matter how poorly I treated it the hull is still going strong.  In fact it has had 3 engines on it and it will probably outlast this one.  Selling it has come up more often as I slow down in the fishing department.  But then stuff breaks on the Mako and I am still fishing.  Think I will keep it just a little longer as we start getting serious about a place where we will retire.  The diabolical plan, leave it there so until we make the move I have a boat.  Back to ease of use, it is always ready to go.

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And a couple of other comments on fishing lures.  Gulp has always been a hassle for lots of reasons, but Berkley’s new Power Bait MaxScent looks like it is worth a shot.  Unlike Gulp they can stay on the rod without drying out.  They say fish hold on to it 18x longer than regular plastics.  And to prove it they dropped a scent infused cotton ball in the tanks with a bass, and a bluegill, and  they ate it in a second.   Then they dropped the exact same cotton ball without scent in the tank and they did not give it a second look.  (Who knows maybe after the clip the bass, the bluegill, and the Berkley guy sit around having a brew and a good laugh.) If you are a soft plastic guy you might give it a look.  Anything to make them hold on that one second longer has something to be said for it.  And no mess!

I love the Bagley Knocker B topwater and have had good luck with it on both fresh and saltwater.  They also have a saltwater topwater, the Rattlin’ Finger Mullet.  It comes in 2 sizes and 9 cool colors.  Made out of a tougher  material specifically for saltwater fish, it is the tried and true walking the dog style bait.  When I order Bang O Lures this fall will have to add a couple to the list.  Their stuff works and I expect nothing less with the Rattlin’ Finger Mullet.  And the Glass Minnow color looks like a sure thing.

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Finally got the right boat for the Boss when we are in Oregon, she had a bathroom requirement.  (Girls!  That what the transom is for.)  So we will do some salmon fishing on the Columbia River, one of the only fishing things on her bucket list.  The timing is good as a bizzilion salmon are about to enter the river, the Captain’s comment;  “We will get her a salmon.”   Nice to have her going to both the fly fishing class with trout fishing along with the salmon.   And a couple of comments on her fishing ability.  No one I have ever been around mastered a bait caster quicker than she did, a natural.  Though she hates spinning and “those worm” things.  She has whipped sails, marlin, and host of others.  And she has never ever bitched about my fishing.  The perfect wife.  Glad we could add the fishing, along with the mountains and some hiking, things are shaping up quite nicely.

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That is all for now.  Really am excited about Oregon, see what all the fuss is about.  And when we catch a few fish it will be all good.  Remember your kill switch, it starts in a few days.  Time to buy a self inflating jacket, hook it to the switch, and you are good to go.  The life you save may be your own.  And if you get to hit the water this week catch em’ up.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

The Wade Right Fishing Belt

Brought to you by

The Best Wading System on the  planet

I was not really planning on fishing today but wanted to be sure the Carolina Skiff was running ok.  It would not circulate water no matter how I tried at the house.  So yesterday I was headed to the shop when I decided to stop by Coleto and just back the trailer in and see if it would pee.  I started it up and it was not peeing when all of a sudden it started.  Yahoo!  Bob thought it might be the thermostat and maybe it was.  As it had not be run for 3 months it proves the old adage –  The worst thing for a boat is sitting.  Won’t let that happen again.  But to the fishing………

Come on clouds!  No such luck but it sure was spectacular!

******************The Knockin Tail Lure with a built in tail rattle!   Look for it this winter.

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Weather

Smoking hot and pool table flat.

Lake Level

Today   96.15 msl.     2 days ago  96.21 msl.

Solunar Times

Major  7:12 am to 9:12 am.   Minor  2:03 pm to 3:03 am.

It was just cracking daylight when I got to the lake.  It is clearly still falling pretty fast and the lower end is clear as all get out.  The color is a little better up lake, and since in the skiff no water temp today, but I do know one thing, it is hot.

The motor was acting right so my first stop was the main lake cove where they have been schooling.  Right off the bat I hooked what I thought was a good one on the Bang O Lure.  After a tussle no wonder, small enough that it was hooked in the mouth and the tail and came in U shaped.  For the first hour I fished that cove but they were not breaking and not another bite so time to get up lake and fish a couple of brushy banks.

The 2 best of the 5 that came over the side this morning.

As I knew it was going to be a short morning I went right to the 2 places that have been consistent and threw the watermelon red stick worm.  The first place 2 jumped on and I missed 2 or 3 more.  One of those deals where you set the hook and there is nothing there and your worm is gone.  Most of the time they are just picking it up by the trail and not actually eating it so when you set the hook off it comes.

The next place 3 came pretty quickly.  Again on the worm.  From that point on not a bite so at 11:00 I called it a morning, happy.  A good feeling to know I was not going to have 2 boats at the shop at the same time.  It would have been a OMG moment if both were down at the same time.  But with the Mako part coming it is going to be back to some serious fishing.

I had another one spit up a small bluegill while I was reeling it in.  The plan was to fish the bluegill swim jig as often as that has been happening but I just can not get them to eat it.  Of course it is a better grass bait, but still I have caught a ton of them over the years on it when the bluegill are spawning and it is a little surprising.  Who knows, maybe should be throwing a bluegill square bill.  The buzzbait got a chance on one bank, and other than a half hearted swirl not a bite, it was just to calm.

Around 9:30 time to fish a couple of deeper points and a ledge in the dam area.  Other than a worm eater that did not hook up the next 1 1/2 hours resulted in not a bite.  It still puzzles me why I can not catch them on a couple of good deep points with serious depth where I have historically caught them.  While fishing those old reliable places changes with conditions, there is no good reason those couple of places do not have any fish on them.   So with it hotter than hell, humid, and not a breath of wind, it time to head to the barn.

The same morning, just a different location.  What a beautiful morning!

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The Mako

A big thank you to Ivory H of customer service and and Shannon R, Pars Adminstrator .  I was getting worried that somehow the part might be hard to find and was having little luck on several fronts.  But within 2 days of speaking with her problem solved.  As you all know I love the boat for the flexibility to fish fresh and salt, along with the easy tow.  And since I just got it rigged exactly the way I want it sure is nice to know it will be back on the water soon.  So hats off to Mako Customer Service, you really do get customer service!

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“Leave it as it is. The ages have been at work on it and man can only mar it.”

“And to lose the chance to see frigate birds soaring in circles above the storm, or a file of pelicans winging their way homeward across the crimson afterglow of the sunset, or a myriad terns flashing in the bright light of midday as they hover in a shifting maze above the beach — why, the loss is like the loss of a gallery of the masterpieces of the artists of old time.”

President Theodore Roosevelt.

Hundreds of square miles of floating trash in the ocean, algae blooms killing millions of fish, sea life choking to death on plastics, the clock is ticking and if we do not take a stand disaster is on the horizon.  While we may not live long enough to see the end, we do our children and others who follow a great disservice.  Roosevelt was the greatest presidential conservationist in the history of the US.  He gave us the park system, and knew the value of what is a finite resource, one we should be protecting and expanding.  Sportsmen of all ilk have a sacred duty to participate in conservation.  We have no right to use it without paying it forward.  Each of us needs to give back in some way, no matter how small.  So do “something”, it is not that hard.

This is not to toot our horn, but to show how easy it is to do something small, too at least do something.  In the last year we have gone to all biodegradable cleaning products, no harder than grabbing a different product on the shelf, and we have quit watering the lawn.  My neighbors may not like it all that much but tough, water quality and quantity is fast becoming a huge issue in America and we have decided to not waste it.  And we try to use canvas bags at the store, the last thing the world needs is more plastic Wal Mart bags flying around.  The last thing I am going to do is ween myself from plastic water bottles.  Seeing the water bottle from the stomach of a redfish is enough for me.  It can not go on like this.  And one thing saltwater fishermen should do is help out on the Beach Cleanup next month.  There is no more “outdoors’ being made, help preserve it.

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Our hear wave goes on and we are doing something about that – Going to the mountains of Oregon.  A fly fishing lesson which the Boss is going to do, then fishing on the Deschutes River.  We will be doing some hiking, then to the coast for a couple of days, finishing up in Portland to do the big city thing.  If my diabolical plan comes to fruition the heat wave will be gone, the Mako will be back in play, and I will be hitting it hard.  So thanks for sticking with me during this slow period I promise there is lots of fishing to come.  Keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

The Wade Right Fishing Belt

Brought to you by

The Best Wading System on the  planet.

(Sorry for the post/cancel yesterday.  Not sure why I did that but I was not done.)

I do have the skiff so am not totally boatless.  But my interaction with Mako continues.  The part I need is a plate, about 24″ long and 5″ wide and 1/4″ thick.  It could be starboard or plexiglass, but it ain’t much.  Suffice to say I still have not heard back from them, the 2cnd time a promised call has not materialized.  So after 5 days still no answer.  And they are still telling me my hull number is not in the system.  Which of course is stupid, you sold it to me and all the paperwork from you agrees.  So with that in mind, and the 100+ degrees forecast for the week, I decided it is a good time to take it in for the annual motor checkup since it is to dangerous to operate.  I figure at the rate I am going it will be a couple of weeks before I get that plate in my hands.  But I have made one decision, if I do not hear something soon I will just have the fiberglass repair dude make one and glass it in.  Trust me cutting the plate and glassing it seems a small job.  And who knows with Mako, when they tell me the plate is some ridiculous thing like $200 or some such nonsense I might just tell them to forget it.

And to go along with that the dealer who Mako told me to get the part from did not have a clue what I was talking about so he had me send a picture so he would know.  When I spoke with him yesterday he went and looked at one on the lot and said well yours was screwed on.  Nope, nothing but sealant.  Remember this is the boat where they forgot to screw the console down, not surprising they didn’t anchor the plate to the hull.  He said he thought he found one in Palm Beach Fl.  Huh?  I am not asking for warranty, not even sure if it is still in, don’t care – just get me the plate.  So then I contacted Mako Customer Care and hopefully the young lady I spoke with can help me.  I sent her a set of pictures and am just waiting to hear from her.  So with Oregon coming next week it seemed no better time to take the Mako in for the annual and hopefully the plate will appear out of thin air by time they are done with it.  Boy I love owning boats.

Not so Fast….….

I am trying to avoid jumping off a bridge.  Not only is the part not ordered yet, but it gets stranger by the minute.  So since no Mako anyway, had the skiff serviced a couple of months ago (including impeller)  so went outside today just to make sure it was good to go.  Check batteries, starting, etc.  Not so much.  Put the muffs on, no pee, and then it overheated.  Great.  Have not had it out since the work was done.  It never ends………………

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This is my happy face! Trying to keep a good outlook today.

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On the way to the shop I stopped in at Coleto to do a quick repair on the trailer bunks.  They have been rubbing the carpet off at the ends so I put a couple of the slick sticks at the end of the bunks.  Then I made sure the boat would not auto slide off the trailer like some do and it was fine.  As I load off and on by myself don’t want it getting away from me.  But here is the point of this comment:  the lake level.

1 week ago  96.61 msl.   Today  96.21 msl.

The lake is dropping like a rock.  Funny.  Why?  Because on one of the fishing Texas fishing shows a dude said the lake was way up and the fishing was good.  Not sure what lake he was talking about but it could not be Coleto.  It was up, but the water is slowly getting to the end of the pier.  If this does not slow down some it may be another winter of tough launching.  This has been one crazy year on Coleto.  Actually I am happy from one standpoint, it will make for some good winter fishing.  Hope springs eternal.  Man we need some rain, we are 11 inches down and my yard is a ugly shade of brown.  As I type this it is raining a little, hope it keeps up.

  *****************

As usual good to hear from Mac.  As we get older the memories are all we have left.

Doug–Too hot to fish, golf, too early to dove and teal hunt, Pre season football sucks, so I just got through reading your words on kids and their fishing. Memories of my youth really popped up. My brothers and I were lucky to live on Mary’s Creek, a small stream where we caught grasshoppers and caught mostly so called perch and small catfish. We were barefoot most of the time and cut off bluejeans was what we had on. Life was very simple then until one July day, one of my brothers came home with a 5 pound bass. Before , we had never seen a bass in this small creek. His tackle consisted of a steel made rod equipped with a Zebco 33 reel and a red and white Lazy Ike lure.
My other brothers and I turned at that point to become die hard bait cast anglers.
We worked one summer for a farmer who thought fishing was a waste of time, but he paid us good to help bale his hay. Our money went to purchase fishing equipment

Brother’s Steve and Tim went with Zebcos and I thought different. I went with a Heddon Baitcast reel. BAd DECISION It took over a year to get over the “birds nests” caused when casting. The only line in those days was black braided cotton line.

We all agreed on certain baits. A spinner bait called a Shyster was used more than any other bait that was not a top water. Top water bait of choice was a black Jitterbug . We all played around with a rubber frog whose legs moved back and forth. We never caught anything on these but they were fun to watch. Baits were overall expensive and we did everything not to lose any. I just remembered Steve creeping out on a tree limb trying to retrieve a Lucky 13 prized plug only to encounter a so called water moccasin . He hit the water fast. I bet that bait is still there today.

WE has no video games, cell phones, or fancy cars. Our mode to the fishing holes were bicycles or foot. If asked then what a serial killer was, we probably would have remarked Tony the Tiger!!!!!!

One thing I will always never forget. Rubber worms were just beginning to appear in the seventies and my Dad found out a brilliant way to fish with them in the hot summer. We went to different lakes and slowly drifted over the middle of the lake with a weighted rubber worm dragging on the bottom in the deepest areas. We did well! I haven’t done this in years, Maybe I should try it again. -hot as it is – One thing is for certain. I can’t go back to fish Mary’s creek anymore – it is polluted and there are no more perch or catfish there. Mac

Love it!  It was the way we rolled in those days.  Reminded me of when I saw my first “rubber worm.”  I was in high school (1971) when stopping at a sporting goods store there was a jar on the counter full of all different colors, no bags back then.  So I bought 5 for .50.  Took them to a pond and threw one out and they just kept “ticking” it, but none ate.  Not knowing then they were inhaling it and all I had to do was set the hook.  But I learned and my love of lure fishing was set and has lasted a lifetime.

You know us old guys talk about the good ole days.  Maybe they weren’t all that good at times but it sure was simpler and a hell of a lot safer.  But you comments and others over the years have me thinking about writing a book.  These memories need to be taken down before they are lost.  It is not the big fancy boat, or all the cool gear, that makes  someone a real fisherman.  One way to tell a “real” fisherman is are they a one trick pony?  Facebook is full of that.   It is about the love of the sport and not a pissing contest.  To many have forgotten the real reason we all fish.  There is something that touched us as kids, being outdoors, seeing the topwater bite, fishing with friends, or the simple love of the anticipation.  And access has become one of my pet peeves.  In those “Good Ole Days” a kid on a bike could fish the creeks and ponds, usually without a problem.  That is a lot bigger issue today, just try wading some creeks or getting access to a pond and see what that gets you.

And last your comment on the condition of Mary’s creek.  When I was young we waded Big Creek.  It was beautiful.  Hard bottom, holes, riffles, and grass beds.  It was really good bass fishing and wading.  Then came the straightening of many of the creeks in Iowa to expand field size.  Now nothing more than a mudhole.  We are losing our water at an alarming rate and I feel for the kids to come.  Thanks for sharing.

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

The Knockin Tail Lure with a built in tail rattle!   Look for it this winter.

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

So here I am, 2 boats and no fishing.  Some days I just want to give up on this fishing thing.  Keep 2 so you always have one, and then when you need it a recently serviced motor overheats.  When you do it all by the book and then it doesn’t work out it is kind of disheartening.  But there is no cure for the fishing disease no matter how irritated I am.  At least if this all is happening all at once when we are going to hit 107 heat index today, not the best weather to be fishing in.  Not sure how this is all going to work out but maybe a little mountain air will cure what ails me.  Keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

The Wade Right Fishing Belt

Brought to you by

The Best Wading System on the  planet.

Got these from my buddy Clyde.  I may be taking a small break this summer but Clyde is getting it done in Iowa.  Talk about yummy!

A couple of good ones for an old perch jerker!

He was kayaking on a small river in Iowa using crankbaits.  Not sure which river but looks like a pretty good walleye fishing hole.  Nice job.  Didn’t know he was a yak guy.

*******************The Knockin Tail Lure with a built in tail rattle!   Look for it this winter.

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

The first thing I did after buying my fishing license was to look in the new book for the specific rule on the kill switch.  And from page 29 word for word:

“The engine cut off switch must be worn by the operator on any vessel under 26′ in length that is equipped with the ECOS, and the vessel is being operated at greater than head way speed.”

So there you have it.  Looks like not when loading the boat or at idle, etc.  But better get in the routine.  Start the motor, put the kill switch on.  Trust me if you do not get in the routine of attaching it ever time you start the motor you will forget.  Nothing could be simpler.

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

I have been watching fishing shows since I was a kid.  Virgil Ward, Jerry McKinnis, and anything else that was on.  In those days most of them fished public waters, today not as much.

Today so many of the shows are done on private waters, waters you and I have no access to.  And of course they catch the snot out of them.  Clearly they are trying to sell baits, no problem with that, it is their goal.  I have noticed over the years that many of these shows take place on these super waters are dedicated to showing how well this or that bait works.  After seeing the same places in different shows it all boils down to one thing, anyone could catch them there, on anything, no problem.  What they do is one show with this bait, then one with that, when in reality you could throw a buzzbait made out of a hot dog and catch them.  So take them for what they are worth, but realize they are not real and just because this do-dad works there is not real life.

The other thing is how often these bass fishing shows are smallmouth shows.  In many of the places they fish it is not a indicator of their succes with a particular bait, it is just an indication of how good it is there.  When I see the ones out of Canada and the Great Lakes it is fun to watch, but for most of us they are not real life.  So take them for what they are, entertainment.  But catching fish in a barrel is not real.

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

I saw a great Facebook post today.  A guy was at Walmart when he encountered a young man looking at fishing rods.  It turned out he did not have enough money for that Ugly Stik and so he bought it for him.  As you know if you read this stuff I have repeatedly complained about where fishing has gone.  $100,000 bay boats, $500 reels, $300 rods, crankbaits that push $30, all crazy.  I spend more on oil for the motor than it would cost to make one kid happy.  So what it boils down to in many cases is who your family is.  I see it every day, spoiled kids (parents) who can afford this stuff bragging on Facebook.  So sad,  I never set foot in a boat until I was 20 years old.  My reels, $2.99 Zebco 202, cheap rods, and maybe a Mepps spinner or Hula Popper if I was lucky.  Then we were able to ride our bikes and fish local ponds thanks to the landowners.  Unfortunately those days are gone and I feel bad for those kids.  So if you get a chance to do something, do it.  You never know what one small act of kindness for a kid who was not born in the “right” circumstances will mean.  Makes me happy to see the post, but sad to realize that kid was me.

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

To highlight the point above, 2 times this week something has come up that illustrates my point.  Both involve tackle reps who get free stuff.  They are both selling their “used” stuff that they were given to make way for the new free stuff.  Now I realize that is a side benefit in the industry.  But how about taking a small portion of that and gifting it to some deserving kids.  You will get way more than money out of the deal.

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

And one last sad point.  NASA is monitoring the retreating ice in Greenland.  It is melting at an alarming rate.  I am not here to argue climate change, it does not matter which side of the argument you are on, but something is happening.  According to NASA there is enough ice in Greenland that if it continues to melt at the current rate it will cause the oceans to rise over 7 meters, which is 29 feet.  If it continues at that rate Bloomington will be ocean front property.  Something to think about.

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

Ahh Mako Boats.  My LTs has a tunnel like area with a plate in the middle of it to help plane, and it works.  It forces water over the top and keeps bow rise down.  The only problem, the plate fell off last week and now water comes over the transom and actually on to the deck.  A small problem!  I contacted the corporate office and they said I have to talk to a local dealer.  So I call them – that serial number does not exist.  Bullshit.  So I actually go out to the boat and read it off the hull, nope.  So I check original paperwork, title, etc – Yes it is.  The dealer said he would call me back Friday, nope.  So I call him back this morning and he says sorry, will get right on  it.  Calls me back a minute later and he talked to the parts department at Mako, they don’t know what that part is.  HUH?  For the love of God.  So outside I go and take a couple of pictures so they can see “their part on their boat they manufactured”.  Stay tuned – apparently my boat does not exist and no one there ever looked at the ass end of the boat they sell.  Stay tuned.

***************** 

That is it for today.  I am still in the taking it easy mode, but fall is coming and with it no “heat index”, which is 107 degrees for Victoria today.  The good news – Oregon is a little over a week away.  And I am really excited that the Boss is going to take the fly fishing class with me then fish the Deschutes River.  Glad she is doing that so when we make the bucket list trip to Alaska she will be armed and dangerous.  (Plus she will need new high dollar Sims waders with the zipper.  The fact that we wear the same size has nothing to do with it.  Wink.)  And the boat is leaving the garage this week, I can only take so much of this “taking it easy” thing.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

The Wade Right Fishing Belt

Brought to you by

The Best Wading System on the  planet.

Should have been perfect timing.

Today Gave Hot a New Meaning – And it was not the Fishing!

Weather

78/100.  Times of clouds and sun with a 60% chance of afternoon showers.  Wind NE 5 – 10mph.

Lake Level

As I have no clue what is normal who cares!  As long as there is water it is all good.

Solunar Times

Major   1:02 pm to 3:02 pm.   Minor  6:02 am to 7:02 am.

*******************The Knockin Tail Lure with a built in tail rattle!   Look for it this winter.

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

Aaron had a day off so we headed to Fayette County.  It was just cracking daylight when we fished the first spot and they were basically gone.  So what is new!  When you think about it that is what makes fishing special to those of us with the disease.  If it were the same it would not be any fun.  So we soldiered on checking multiple places.  This is not an excuse, but this was a day when the weather did not help us out.

If you just catch 3 at least one was like this.  A chunk.

After a little wind, and I use the term loosely, it went dead flat.  It was pool table flat and by 10:00 was hotter than hades.  Whether it was plastics or crankbait, it was a bite here and a bite there.  We could have called it a day but we soldiered on until it was just unbearable without a breeze.

Aaron with his biggest of the morning on the Strike King 6XD in the Ghost Shad.

We were able to find a few deep bunches on the electronics, but at most a half hearted bite or two, and then nothing.  The only good thing there appears to be some grass left, and as short as some looked on the graph it might be growing again.  One can only hope.  The day was not all we hoped for, but we were fishing.   And anytime I can boat one like the one above I am happy.

So at noon we put it on the trailer.  The truck said 100 degrees, and it was all that.  Once I got home it was 102 and the heat index was 110!  My yard is burning up and we are over 10″ down in rainfall this year.  It is really a case of South Texas summer doldrums and until this breaks I am just not in any big hurry .  Plus, hunting season is right around the corner, school is back in, and the traffic on our waters, and the temps, will be coming down and my fishing time will be rising.

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

You regular readers know I love looking at boats for sale, and then making fun of some of them.  But just like my first one 40 years ago, boats have always had a place in my heart and I am a top window shopping boat lover.  Well I found the “perfect” boat for me.  Probably the best buy I have seen in a good bit and perfect for fresh and salt.  Of course I am not going to buy it, I just got mine in the shape I want it.  But all fisherman are dreamers, why we keep casting.

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

Life has consequences – At least it used to.

Free college for all, wipe out your student loans, you don’t have to pay off your credit cards, and you can negotiate your tax bill down.  Here is my comment – None of this is FREE!  Somebody has to “pay”, and those of us who lived up to our responsibilities will be paying for your debt one way or the other.  A perfect example is the law student who graduated and said he did not realize what borrowing all that money meant.  Huh?  If you are that stupid you are going to make one bad attorney.  How we have gotten to this point makes no sense to me.  I am always puzzled by the sense of entitlement and lack of responsibility.  And I understand that things can be tough, tell me about it, been there and done that several times in my life.  But you keep pushing and work your way out of it.  Oh well, lets just make everything free!  Sorry for this off topic rant but this trend is driving me crazy.

And a side note on student loans.  I read a report this week with a chart detailing current repayment trends on student loans and it is sad.  Since this kind of talk has been proposed the repayment rate has dropped dramatically.  Hey, why pay when they are going to give it to me.  Like the old rock and roll song says –  “Get your money for nothing and your chicks for free.”

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

The bay continues to produced from what I am seeing online.  Steve and his friend put the smack down on them this week.

I stole this from his Facebook.  Nice job boys.

There are lots of good reports from the bay for those fishing.  Croaker is still reining supreme but I have seen some good plastic reports and even a topwater or two reports.  As soon as I get off my hot old ass it will be back at it.

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

But Most Importantly!

We fishermen think catching a big one, or a ton of them is all that.  In the grand scheme of things it is just a blip on the screen.  There are more important things than fishing and here is living proof.

“The Beast”  Baby Wren on her first day of school.  She was so proud.  You are no longer “Baby” Wren.   

Wren and Mia.  I am a proud Grandpa.

And we all need a friend to hold our hand as we make our way through life.

The kids called the day before and Wren told us all about her big day, she was so excited.  And Mia told me she gave “The Beast” a sage piece of advice – Don’t get sent to the principles office.  I should have listened to that advice myself. And congratulations to Carrie and Leigh, you are doing a great job raising my grandkids.  So good luck girls – I hope the best for your futures and that the world will be a better place.

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

Time to head out.  First renew the trailer plates, then a new fishing license, then spend some more money on fishing.  It never ends.  So what or where next is up in the air, but it will involve a rod in my hand.  I appreciate you all sticking with me.  Keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

The Wade Right Fishing Belt

Brought to you by

The Best Wading System on the  planet.

A Short Friday Coleto Trip

Been out of town a couple of days on an impromptu trip so did not get this quick report up.  When you are having to much fun it is a little hard to keep up.  There is one comment I do have to make on travel.  I really like Grand Isle, La and fishing in Florida.  Currently thinking about a big trip this fall to both places on the same trip, and then I drive through Houston today.  What a mess, rarely do we make it all the way to Louisiana without some kind of delay, and this time was no different.  Besides construction there was a big semi wreck, that is the fourth we have seen wrecked lately, and it turned into an hour delay.  Thinking about the drive, which is probably a total of 18 hours, the only thing that worries me is making it through Houston with my life and the boat intact.  At least there is something to be said, it is still better than Austin.  But back to the reason we are here.

Weather

78/100  (Heat Index 109)  Partly cloudy and very warm, breezy in afternoon 10% chance of a shower.  Wind S 15 – 25 mph.

Lake Level

Today  96.61 msl.   Wednesday  96.66 msl.

Solunar Times

Major 8:50 am to 10:50 am.

When I got to the ramp before daylight guess I did not get the memo.  There were 6 boats in various stages of unloading.  Some bass fishermen and some crappie, guess everyone had the same idea.  So I dropped in and decided to head to the cove where the fish were breaking the other day and there was already a boat there.  Dang it, I wanted to hit them up at daylight.  So up the lake I went.

To make a long story short it was a lot slower.  Not a bite on the Whopper Plopper, missed one on a Bang O Lure, and caught 7, all amazingly small, on plastics.  No pictures of that. There was no rhyme or reason to where I got bites other than wood.  And not a bite after 9:00 when I headed down lake to try a couple of places.  Probably should have stayed up lake, the water color is a little darker and there is quite a bit of wood cover.

By 11:00 it was getting  hot, 94 when I pulled the boat out, and the truck was in the shade.  And the forecast was right on, the wind picked up quite a bit and either the fish really quit biting or I made poor bank selections, which is highly possible.  One interesting note, it rained on me for 2 minutes.  It was literally raining on an area about the size of my yard. While it was slow, that is not all out of line with summer on the lake.

*******************The Knockin Tail Lure with a built in tail rattle!   Look for it this winter.

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

And How About the Solunar Tables?

Spoke with Mr. Crappie on the lake the Friday and of course he is still catching them.  He probably knows more about crappie on Coleto than any man alive.  What was interesting he caught 32 on Wednesday, the same day I caught 18 bass, but Friday only 13, and I only caught 7 bass.  Maybe a comment on how active they were today.  But to the rest of the wildlife I saw the biggest flock of turkeys I have ever seen, a nice heavy 10 point buck, and then a whole wad of deer.  So stuff was moving around, just not the fish.  It seems like over the years just because it is the major period does not mean you are going to catch them.  But many of my memorable catches came during the major.  So what does all that mean?  Who the hell knows!

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

Get Your New Fishing License

There are several rule changes for bass on lots of lakes in Texas, along with a change in the rule on kings in saltwater.  Here is a quick link to the TWPD with the changes that will take effect on Sept. 1.  And remember to buy your new license for the year, sale begins on the 15th.   After my last experience at Academy think I will just hit up the local TPWD office to get mine.  Before you leave, no matter where you buy it, look at it and be sure it is right just in case.

https://tpwd.texas.gov/regulations/outdoor-annual/fishing/new-this-year-fishing

And last, use your kills switch, it is going to be the law.  It has to become habit.  Save yourself a potential ticket, and maybe a life.

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

The heat wave is still ongoing here in Texas.  The car said it was a 100 both going and coming.  100 at noon in Houston is freakin’ hot and the car said 100 when we got home.  Next up it is Fayette in the morning with my buddy Aaron.  He hollered at me today itching to try a couple of other places to see if we can find some bigger fish Fayette has to offer. One thing about Fayette, we will catch some nice fish, at least that is the plan.  Who knows, might even be a few for the camera.  So time to get ready for that dreaded early morning start.   Keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

The Wade Right Fishing Belt

Brought to you by

The Best Wading System on the  planet.

Order Up!

                          It does not get any more beautiful than this morning!                              (Note: I never manipulate any pics, they are what they are.)

As you can see it was flat out beautiful this morning as the sun rose.  I was out early as you can see because the Boss placed an order – 1 fish fry coming up.  Rarely do any fish hit the freezer in this house, consequently I rarely keep many.  We like them fresh so I headed out to put a couple in the boat, and barely pulled it out.

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

Weather

79/99  Heat Index 110.  Sunny and very hot.  Wind  S 10 – 20mph.  (As I type this the weather dude says it is hot and just going to get hotter!  100 to 102 for the next 7 days!)

Lake Level

Today  96.66 msl.   Monday  96.66 msl.

Solunar Times

Major 7:09 am to 9:09 am.   (Definitely the best bite.)

*******************The Knockin Tail Lure with a built in tail rattle!   Coming to a store near you!

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

The water temp was still in the high 80’s to low 90’s depending on where you are.  And the color is as good as it has been in quite a while.  It was hot and humid even at daylight as I headed up lake.  I just needed 2 keepers, which at times lately on Coleto takes some work and a little luck.  (Note:  Sparing you pictures of fish today, there was not a 1 worth a hoot.  I am sure you are bored looking at small ones, just as bored as I am catching them.)

The last 2 weeks what good fish I have caught have come on a buzzbait, Bang O Lure, or Whopper Plopper.  Today they just did not want the Whopper Plopper.  (I did miss a nice one on the Bang O Lure.)  I stuck with it for over an hour and finally broke out the watermelon stick worm on a 3/16th slip sinker, and they were definitely biting.  Unfortunately only one barely made 15″ and went in the box.

Basically during the major period I put 13 (1 keeper.) in the boat on plastics, missed a couple, and broke one off setting the hook.  Most were on a little steeper stuff with cover, and 6 came off one place.  If the number of 13″ or so is any indication that was quite a year class last year.  They are fat and sassy.  And today they were hitting it and holding on.  Again, most 5 foot or less.  Around 10:00 they quit.  So with 1 not enough, I needed one more for supper, so time to head down lake and do a little crankbait trolling and call it a day.

I ended up catching another 5, 1 catfish, 3 bass, and a great big Tilapia.  The white bass have definitely deserted their long time summer haunts this year, and not a one jumped on.  The last few years that spot has been a no brainer, and occasionally I would stop by and catch a few for the fun of it.  The Tilapia stopped that shad colored crankbait.  Almost every tilapia I have  caught on lures, and it has been a few, are big and knock the snot out of it.  With as many in the lake I am surprised it is not more.

One interesting thing today was when I cleaned the bass it had a bluegill in his belly.  That is the second fish in 2 trips that has been eating bluegill.  Guess that should tell me something.  Have to think about that a little before next time.  Today I again give a B,  anytime you can catch 18 by 12:30 is a good day.  Hoping this is a sign of what are fall fishing will be when the bigger fish show up.

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Just One More?

Game and Fish officers spread out over a large area of the gulf the last week, paying particular attention to areas around POC, like Sunday Beach and the barge canal.  It resulted in a number of arrests on multiple charges including 8 BWI.  Time to use the same designated driver rule in the boat that people use with the car if you want to get loaded.  Your choice to get smashed, but it is not the choice of the rest of us to be hurt or have to deal with you.  If no one is sober enough to drive then you have no place on the water.  Just saying.  Thanks to the TPWD wardens.

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

And speaking of wardens, the new kill switch rule goes into effect next month.  Now is the time to start getting used to it.  No matter how you do to it there needs to be routine so that every time you take off you are in compliance.  Since I wear a auto inflate jacket I just take it off and put it on the seat so I have to pick it up so it always stays attached to the kill switch.  The side benefit of course is wearing the jacket all the time.  The way I did it before was to keep it on my wrist and when I stopped the boat I wrapped it on the steering wheel.  Again, forcing me to do it.  So whatever you choose to do about it, it has to be like the seatbelt, most of us never even think about putting it on.  So figure it out, the life you save may be your own.  Plus it may be the “ticket of the day” for a while.

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

More Fun With Boat Buying or You Expect to Sell that?

I am sorry but I just can’t resist.  I check the boat ads most days and some of them just crack me up.

Everything working as it should
motor runs but needs power head

Hey no big deal, just $4 grand and it will be good as new.

*****

This would be a great floating dock. There is no title. Come and get it.

In other words I can’t figure out how to get it out of my yard.

*****

One motor runs perfect the other needs a little work.

If it is so little why not fix it?

*****

Motor does not work but it’s fixable.

Anything is “fixable” but making me taller.

*****

Tires should hold air enough to haul it away (I have a compressor we can use).  I do not have titles for anything.

What more could a buyer want?

*****

351 motor needs rebuild.  No title. Had it but lost it during a move before I could change it to my name.

No big deal other than it does not run and has no title.

*****

The guy took the motor out to be replaced but didn’t. All parts in boat

Just a screw driver and it is all good.

*****

needs motor heads which we have, just needs a little TLC.

You do it, only needs the “motor heads’ glued back on.   Whatever they are.

*****

in need of a little TLC, seat tops need replacement, tires are dry rotted, Evinrude motor spins freely but has not been started in years.

Other than that a great boat.

*****

Title was never transfer (no title) couldn’t find it.

Run away from any title issues.

*****

There is a bad coil so the motor will crank and only run for a few seconds then it’ll die. But its an easy fix.

 It is so easy you could have done it in your sleep.  Sure……….

If it says “needs work” or “project” or “easy fix”, run.  If it has no titles, run.  If they can not tell you where and how often it was serviced, run.  If there is grass grown up around it in the picture, run.  If it has not been run “in years”, run.  I guess what cracks me up about the ads is the ones who meet all the criteria above.  At least every once in a while someone gets it over with and says free.

***************** 

Guess it is time for me to quit whining about the heat and head to the bay next week.  One of the side effects of being able to fish when and where I want is the occasional  waiting for the “perfect” conditions, which rarely exist.  Watching my Facebook  buddies Michael, the owner of Controlled Descent and his sons catching some good fish, Steven did some damage wading, and Jesse the neighbor putting them on the stringer has me wanting some salt time.  So time to suck it up, put on my big boy pants and head to the bay.  The video of the feeding frenzy Michael posted got my blood going.  And it won’t be long until hunting season starts and folks hang up the rods and get out the guns.  (I am pretty spoiled – I just want it all to myself. LOL.)  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

The Wade Right Fishing Belt

Brought to you by

The Best Wading System on the  planet.

With it looking like it was going to be real hot, and it was, I dropped it in the water when it was still dark.  Right away the drop was evident, amazing how fast it has dropped almost 2 feet.  And the water temp was 90 at the ramp, 93 in front of the discharge cove, and 88 way up lake.  Sitting at the ramp I re-rigged my plastics and tied on the smaller Whooper Plooper and it was deja vu all over again.  I flipped it out and one jumped all over it, and I missed it.  Funny, that is the second time I have had that happen at the ramp in the last 2 trips and with my superior skill I missed it.  As soon as it was cracking daylight I headed up lake.

Weather

76/94.  Parly cloudy, very warm, heat index to 107, with a 25% chance of a shower.  Wind  SSE 5 – 15 mph.

Lake Level

Today  96.66 msl.   1 week ago  98.86 msl.  (Holy mackerel, a big drop in a week.)

Solunar Period

Major  5:29 am to 7:29 am.  Minor  11:45 am to 12:45 pm.

*******************The Knockin Tail Lure with a built in tail rattle!   Coming to a store near you!

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How hot and humid was it?  For the first hour after the sun came up my sunglasses continually fogged up.  The plan was to stick to the smaller bone Whopper Plopper and I stuck with it.  Early it was slow and I missed the first 3 that hit it.  One looked pretty good and when it missed it the first time I threw back in and missed it again.  (Think I will go to a stiffer rod for this bait.)  I finally boated a small one, and since I was up lake I hit my consistent brush filled bank and like it has been I ended up putting 5 in the boat there on the watermelon red senko.  There is a bunch of fish there, I just have not found that big fish area.   As they were the same size so it was back to the Whopper Plopper.

I saw this one coming from 5 feet away.

The one above came back to back after catching a small one on the cast before.  Today most of the bites came near some kind of a point.  It did not have to be some big point, as long as it stuck out.  And like it has been every bite came right on the bank.  From about 8:00 until 10:30 I probably had 8 bites and boated 4 of them.

This is what the other 10 looked like on both the Whooper Plooper and plastics.  The last bite.

There was a bank down lake I wanted to fish but I only picked up one more, again right on the bank.  Today 2 actually hit it the minute it landed before I could even move it.  One of them took me right in some brush and managed to pull off.  It was a total of 6 on the Whopper Plopper today.

One did not come on the bank, in fact he was nowhere near it.  There are several big coves on the lake right now with schooling activity.  One had several wads of them chasing shad, but most looked small, and the one I caught out of them was small.  And as a side note, one of the plastics bass puked up a small bluegill in the boat.  Maybe they are spawning right now, and if that is the case might be time for the bluegill colored swim jig.

I give the day a B.  After seeing how far it had dropped, and how flat out hot it got, 11 bass for the morning is not a bad summer short trip.  (I quit at 11:30.)  And fishing the Whopper Plopper is fun, but I love topwater no matter what fish I am chasing.

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Over the last year or longer I have been using 4 Lew’s SLP casting reels and I could not be happier.  (Not in the salt.)  They have held up well, cast far, and the drag is fine.  When I had my tackle store in 1974 – 75 the Lew’s Speed Spool came out.  It was $50, which was a lot at the time, but I bought a couple and used them for years until no one would fix them.  If memory serves me it was the first low profile reel.  Amazing how much lighter these are, easier to use but how long they last remains to be seen.  Back then combined with the new Fenwick graphite hand tied blanks I was styling.  I am currently using the SLP on different rods and line weights.  From as low as 8lb to 20lb (As high as I would go with the SLP.) they work with all the different baits I use and the price is right.  Good stuff helps but none of it catches fish all by itself.

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I hate to sound like a broken record but the forecast this week is just plain ugly.  The next 4 days the heat index will be 107, 109, 110, and 110.  We did manage a short shower today, probably just enough to wet the grass but that was about it.  Tomorrow is do some responsible things and then back on the water Wednesday.  Where just depends on how early I want to get up.  Hard to justify spending $30 on gas and who knows how much on baits and ice etc to end up fishing for 4 hours on the bay.  I prefer to fish a lot longer than that when I head to POC.  Sorry but no way I am going to fish in the afternoons this week.  Might be time to do a night trip on the lake, and if it stays this way maybe the same on the bay when the moon comes around next week.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines