Bassin' The Net (a very fishy blog)

LABOR DAY ADDITIONS

2011-09-05T22:18:00.000-04:00

It was no labor at all to add these great items to More Tackle. Hope there's something here to peak your interest. We only have one or two of each model of the Fin-Nor reels, so first come, first served.

Fin-Nor Reels:

Offshore Star Drag
Santiago
Sportfisher Spinning
Sportfisher Lever Drag
Marquesa
Megalite

MonoMaster by Grasshopper Outdoors

Keep checking back periodically for more great items as they get added to the site.

Thanks for shopping with More Tackle and God bless you all!

Fly Fishing for Bass

2011-08-23T21:30:00.000-04:00

I’ve been fishing since I was a kid, and from the beginning, I knew my favorite times on the water would be when I was bass fishing. For about 95% of my fishing life, I used a spinning reel.I picked up a bait caster once or twice, but was never in thick enough cover to need heavy line, so I rarely even bothered.It is fun, fast, convenient and little still gets me as excited as a smallmouth crushing a topwater lure, but I never realized how much I was actually missing out on.

After I graduated college, my mentality toward fishing began to change. While always enjoyable, fishing just was losing a bit of it’s luster. I wanted more of a challenge. I thought back to a trip I took with my family to Yellowstone, where my dad and I had a guide float us down a river with a couple fly rods.I couldn’t get the fly to float to save my life, but I realized the scenery, the quiet, and the focus each cast took was what I was missing in my current outings.So I borrowed an old rod from my neighbor and decided to try fly-fishing.I’ve since found it is endlessly adaptable and never boring. It truly elevates fishing from a hobby to an art form. If you’re interested in getting started, here are a few suggestions to help you begin.

Just Do It

When I started I pored over magazines and even watched a couple of instructional videos. After some extensive studying I quickly realized there’s no substitution for experience. Like golf and other instinctive sports, fly-casting relies on muscle memory that improves with practice. If you have a friend who is already an experienced fly fisherman you’re golden. I had just moved right outside of New York City and was on my own.I found that local fly shops were happy to let me try a few rods while handing out helpful advice. Some shops even offer classes in casting, reel loading, or even tying flies. Look for a group locally or online that accepts beginners. Then, the best way to learn how to fly fish is go out and do it. Also, a day spent with an experienced guide can be worth more than weeks on the water by yourself. You won’t regret it.

Don't Go Crazy

Fly-fishing, like most hobbies, can get expensive. Open a catalog and prepare to be stunned by the infinite variety of rods, reels, lines, leaders, tippets, auxiliary equipment and, of course, flies. Fly rods and reels can be several thousand dollars on the high end, but can also be found for less than one hundred. I found that most other traditional fly-fishing gear, like waders, boots, vest, etc. were unnecessary since I was usually fishing from a boat and already had what I needed from years of bass fishing.I was able to find anything else I needed online at a discounted price after asking the local shops what they recommended and why.

Don’t Give Up

Any kind of fishing takes patience and perseverance, fly-fishing even more so. The beauty of fly-fishing is that it merges aspects of both science and art. The satisfaction of one perfect cast, the line looping effortlessly and a fly landing exactly where you sent it is worth five – maybe even ten – bad ones. It makes all those stares I received from my neighbors when I was practicing behind my home in Long Island worth it.If you love bass fishing and you’re up for an adventure, try hitting the water with a fly rod. There’s a good chance you’ll get hooked.

Written by Adam Coholan

On Twitter @Coho22

HOT ~ HOT ~ HOT

2011-07-05T21:26:00.000-04:00

Hot Lures –

Summer fish and how they react. In the summertime, when the water temperature gets in the 80’s, fish seem to get more lethargic and become rather finicky. So, what can you do to remedy this kind of behavior? You can use a Senko worm, which is pictured here.

You can rig this worm three different ways. The way this picture shows you here is a Texas rig. When using a Texas rig, run your line through a bullet weight, size of your choice (if using a weight), and then tie onto your worm hook. I prefer a Palomar knot because of its strength and it won’t come untied. Then run the hook down into the top of the worm the same length as the top of the hook prior to the 90 degree curve. Bring the hook out the side of the worm and pull the worm up to that top section of the hook. Turn the hook back toward the worm and bury it back into the worm, making it weedless. If it is a tough worm, you might want to run the hook all the way through and then back it back inside. That way you get easier penetration at the hookset, but you might also be more likely to hang up on vegetation.

Or, you can rig it by putting an “O” ring (a size 6) around the Senko worm and roll it on to the middle of the bait. This lets the bait oscillate and flex as you work it, giving the bait more action. You can also use just a regular 6”-10” worm, working it around the edge of the grass or out in open water around brush piles and grass beds.

Here is another way. A lot of people don't know about this. You can use a Carolina rig, as this picture illustrates.

You will see I have a jerk bait, such as a Thunder Stick, a Long-A Bomber, or a Rapala. This type of rigging will keep the bait just up off the bottom. As you are working the Carolina rig with the weight, this pulls the bait down toward the bottom. As you hesitate, the bait floats backs up a little ways. It mimics an injured minnow. Believe me, you will get bit.

You can also use a Senko worm with or without a weight by rigging two different styles. Use a Texas rig or put your “O” ring on the Senko using a weedless hook. Either way lets you get back and throw it into the grass, pads, gator grass, or pencil reeds without hanging up. These are my favorite ways of fishing a Senko.

Some other lures you can use in the summertime would be lipless crank baits, frogs, and spinner baits. Sometimes around this time of the year you will see fish schooling. When this occurs, take and throw your lipless crank bait into the school. If this does not trigger a strike, you could start fan casting around for the fish. Even though they are not on the surface, this has been known to still trigger a strike. The best way you can find where these fish will come up is by watching the bait fish. If you see the bait start skipping across the top of the water, get ready, because something is chasing them. If you find yourself in this situation, you can catch a lot of fish in a hurry.

Hot Time In The Summertime –

Let me tell you about this one trip I had on May 28^th. The water temperature was 85°. I had four people (two couples) from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. We were using live bait on Lake Kissimmee after coming out of River Ranch on the Kissimmee River. Suzanne March had called me about this trip a few weeks before. She and her husband, Mike, and Patrick and his girlfriend all went together on my pontoon boat to go bass fishing. We also went catching … we caught around 15 or 20 bass, which is already a nice morning. Patrick is playing with his cell phone when he gets a strike, and this picture is what that strike produced - a12 lb. 1 oz trophy largemouth.

That was the second largest fish that I had guided for this year. So, while we were taking pictures, I said we've got about four shiners left. Let's put all new shiners on and make another trip around the same area. Well, guess what happened. So Susan and her girlfriend got in the two back seats and we went around again through the same area. This picture will tells the rest of the story. This fish weighed 13 pounds on the nose.

Even I have never had this happen on a guided trip. These are two fish of a lifetime and are now the two biggest largemouth bass caught in this season, which I generally consider begins in November and ends in May. They were both photographed and then released in the same area. Bet you would like to know exactly where in Lake Kissimmee I have been fishing all season long. A successful guide never shares all of his secrets, especially the best ones! After all … it is my livelihood.

Hot Tips –

There are a number of ways for keeping yourself from overheating while summertime fishing. First, make sure you have plenty of water on hand. It is extremely easy to get dehydrated before you even realize it. Second, wear lightweight clothing that is light colored, breathable and dries easily. Either wear long sleeves and pants for protection from the sun’s damaging rays or wear a strong sunscreen. My dermatologist recommends Neutrogena’s 85 SPF. Third, either carry some towels on board to soak with water and place around your neck or on your head for a quick cool down; use one of the various neck wraps available at local tackle or sporting goods stores; or there are neck scarfs/ties that have beads sewn in that, when soaked in water, absorb and hold it all day.

So, keep your cool and have a hot time on the water this summer.

Late Spring/Early Summer Bassin'

2011-05-31T19:05:00.001-04:00

TROPHY BASS

Generally, a bass weighing in at 10 pounds or better is considered a “trophy.” Many, including my wife’s father, have set that bar for whether or not to have a bass mounted. Her father fished all of his life in waters from Canada to Florida and never boated that 10 pound plus bass. He caught a lot of bass, both largemouth and smallmouth, walleye, muskie, and northern pike throughout his lifetime; and generally caught more than anyone he was with, but never the trophy largemouth bass that he sought after. His wife (my mother-in-law) caught two in her lifetime and he made her mount them both! Now, thanks to fiberglass replicas, we are able to “have our cake and eat it too” so to speak. We are able to have a “copy” trophy mount on our wall or table, but we are also able to release these trophies back into their habitat to continue producing more bass that are genetically prone to growing up to trophy size … like the one below:

This is a picture of the biggest bass landed this year. On or about March the 10^th we get a call from Tom Keady and Gail Klusek from New York. Tom and Gail have a place at Lily Lake in Frostproof, Florida. They were out at a restaurant and Tom picked up a copy of IN THE FIELD Magazine. They came across the article that I had written back in January for the February issue about schooling bass, and what Joyce (my wife) and I do every Christmas morning, which is to go fishing and spend a little spiritual time with our deceased Dads, who showed us the great outdoors that God has provided for us. Anyway, Tom read this and was inspired by it to the point that they called to book a trip, and this is what became of that trip. This is Gail's 12 lb 12 oz largemouth bass, also pictured in my last article with Gail. That same morning they had one that weighed 6 lb 12 oz. Both were released back into the lake to give these fish a chance to lay their eggs, so we can have the opportunity to catch more like them.

SUMMER SCHOOL

As the kids are getting ready to get out of school, the bass are starting to get into schools. For the last couple of weeks I have been catching schooling bass in Lake Kissimmee using both live bait with medium sized shiners and with artificial baits, such as lipless crankbaits and plastic swimbaits. They have ranged anywhere from dinks too small to measure all the way up to around 6 lbs. I’ve heard of bass schooling up in Lake Toho, also, but it is that time of the year. With all the new hatchlings of a multitude of panfish, shad, and minnows, the bass are feeding on a virtual smorgasbord. They have been known to gorge to the point of regurgitation and then feed some more. It’s kind of like going out to eat to a buffet and, since you can’t make up your mind what to eat, you have some of everything. At least we know when to stop … or most of us do, anyway!

This is a time that can be a lot of fun, but also very frustrating. If you are lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time when the bass run bait to the surface which lets you know where they are feeding, then you can cast almost any small bait just past the school and then run it back through it, almost guaranteeing a strike. But if you are not lucky, you will run your trolling motor batteries down to nothing trying to chase after the schools that are just out of casting distance. Your best bet is to determine what areas are holding the bait, and why. Once you figure that out, concentrate on keeping your boat near those areas and sooner or later the water will appear to boil as the bass run the bait to the surface sometime during the chase. It’s kind of like “feast or famine” or “hurry up and wait.” Once you are in the right areas, continue to fan cast even if you don’t see them on the surface, because the bass and the bait are still in the general vicinity.

Another thing to keep in mind during these feeding frenzies is that generally it is the smaller bass that do the chasing, gorging, and regurgitating. The larger bass have wised up (or have become basically lazy) and will cruise a little deeper beneath the school, scarfing up the injured, falling bait and regurgitation. If you have had your fun already with the smaller bass, try twitching a fluke or anything that mimics an injured baitfish, a little deeper using a #3 barrel swivel with about 18” of leader. The purpose of this is two-fold - by using a swivel, it helps to eliminate line twist that so often occurs when using twitching bait; and the minimal weight added using the barrel swivel will help bring the bait slightly deeper and create a slow fall during each pause between twitches.

End Of A Season

2011-05-15T22:08:00.000-04:00

Bass fishing this season has been the best I have seen in a number of years. I know this year started off cold and rainy, but January and February has come and gone, but not without its rewards. And March and April has been a blast. I have fished all around Polk County, and it has been great. As most of you already know by the amount of boats I’ve seen, the Winter Haven chain has been a good producer since we have had enough water in the canals to be able to commute from lake to lake. Lake Kissimmee has continued to live up to its reputation as one of Florida’s best producers for most all of the sporting fish.

I have had some of the best clients that a fishing guide could ever ask for. Here are a few pictures to show you just what I mean about this last season (which I consider runs from November of 2010 through April of 2011):

Some of these customers caught their largest bass ever ... and some their very first bass! I hope I am able to continue introducing anglers of all ages to this wonderful sport and spiritual resource as I continue to evolve from a fisher of fish to a fisher of men.

Thank you Jesus for blessing me and my patrons with a bountiful season.

TAKE A LESSON FROM NATURE

2011-04-19T20:54:00.002-04:00

There are a number of ways the fish population can be altered … for either the good or the bad. Some ways occur from nature … some occur by man. But we need to become aware of both.

First I think it would be good for you to understand the impact that the fishing industry has on the state of Florida. Florida is considered the “Fishing Capital of the World.” This title is backed up by surveys done every 5 years by the US Census Bureau. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the economic impact is somewhat staggering. Overall retail sales are $4.4 billion (yes, that’s billion) with freshwater sales making up $1.5 billion of that. It supports 75,736 jobs of which 23,480 jobs are in freshwater, yielding $728,646,722 in salaries, wages, and business owner’s incomes. Non-resident fishing expenditures total $1 billion, for a total economic output (ripple effect) of $7.5 billion. What that means for the state directly is $550 million in state and local tax revenues … more than 3 times the revenue from oranges! Florida has 2.8 million anglers, with 885,000 being non-residents.

Mother Nature’s “Cleansings”?

It’s not just the over-catching of these fun and tasty creatures that have caused this. Natural causes have also had their effects on Florida. The hurricanes of a few years ago took their toll as various news media made it clear that these immense storms can cause devastation, but it may be difficult to see how hurricanes and tropical storms could affect fish. Yet it becomes evident when you see fish kills following a major storm event, due to several occurrences. There can be changes in the saline content in freshwater due to a saltwater storm surge. Flooding waters can carry fish into low lying areas and, once the flood waters recede, the fish are left in pools that eventually dry up, leaving dead fish.

Low oxygen content is the most common cause of storm-induced fish kills. This happens from excessive wind pushing the surface water to one end of the lake. Then the water from the bottom rises to the surface, bringing all of the bottom debris with it, which is naturally low in oxygen. In addition, this bottom water may include hydrogen sulfide which, when in high enough concentrations, can be lethal to fish; and can be detected by any "rotten egg" or "sewage" odors. Bacteria present in the sediments brought to the surface also uses up oxygen. I’m sure you’ve heard the phrase, “The lake has turned over."

Florida, known as the Sunshine State, rarely has long periods of cloudy days, except for storms of this type. During this time, photosynthesis in organisms and aquatic plants is reduced. Therefore, these oxygen-producers use up what’s already in the water, causing an overall depletion of oxygen, leading to fish kills.

Although we do normally get a lot of sunshine, it’s not always associated with heat. Recent cold snaps have affected Florida's freshwater and marine fisheries as water temperatures dropped below normal for extended periods. Hundreds of reports of cold-related fish kills occurred across the state last year. Fish may either die from cold stress or become more susceptible to disease. Warm-water species are more vulnerable to cold temperatures. In fresh water, some native fish have been impacted, although most deaths occurred among non-native species, such as tilapia. As a reminder, harvesting distressed or dead fish for consumption is not advised under any circumstances.

Disease Infestation

The largemouth bass virus, LMBV, is the only virus to have been associated with a lethal disease of largemouth bass. While LMBV has been isolated from a lot of other species of warm-water fishes, the disease response has only been observed in largemouth bass. Since 1995, LMBV has been implicated as a source of mortality in more than 25 fish kills in the United States, specifically throughout the Southeast and the Midwest. Fortunately, evidence suggests that fish populations develop immunity following exposure to the virus. Fish kills associated with LMBV have also declined over time, and to our knowledge, none have been observed over the past two years. In fact, fish kills which may be a result of LMBV have been rarely reported in Florida during the past 10 years. Although, in the past 3 years, three fish kills in Florida were evaluated as potentially being caused by LMBV. A bass die-off in a private pond near Tampa was diagnosed as being caused by low oxygen levels. A second disease event at Lake Butler in Orange County in 2003 was associated with an outbreak of bacteria. In 2004, a die-off of largemouth bass at Lake Hollingsworth in Polk County followed a lake-wide alum treatment by the county, and the results of the investigations were inconsistent with LMBV disease.

Research of LMBV is ongoing at the University of Florida, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Auburn University, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation. Disease and fish kills in bass have not been linked to LMBV in Florida. However, buoyancy problems and swim bladder lesions, symptoms associated with the virus, and an antibody response to the virus were observed in bass following a bass-only fish kill in Lake Harris in the early 1990s. The bass virus was also isolated from bass that had been collected from Lakes Weir and Holly during a disease episode in this same period of the 1990s.

Tissue and blood samples collected from bass in 45 water bodies since 1999 indicated that the virus, but not the disease, is widely distributed throughout Florida. Results of laboratory studies strongly suggest that many bass become immune upon exposure to LMBV. A distinction should always be made between fish that are infected with LMBV and fish that are diseased as a result of the virus. Almost all of the populations sampled in Florida and included in this data were not experiencing disease problems or fish kills.

There are limits as to how many game and nongame freshwater fish you can keep and retain, and this varies from one body of water to another. In addition, there are various regulations on the methods of taking freshwater fish. To find out these regulations, pick up a Florida Freshwater Fishing Regulations booklet at your local tackle or marine dealer.

The restrictions are much tighter on Florida’s largemouth bass than on panfish, such as bluegill, sunfish, crappie, shellcracker, etc. But due to a number of factors, the limits have been reduced on them, too. Although we have such a widely dispersed population of freshwater fish, being able to fish within a 30-60 minutes drive of anywhere in the state, conservation is more paramount than ever. Information gathered lately shows that the resources have been slowing eroding. If you talk to anyone who has fished Florida for many years, they will tell you that it’s not “like the good ol’ days” when they could catch stringers upon stringers of bass; not to mention the coolers full of panfish. The trophy populations of all freshwater fish have also declined severely. That is why catch limits have been reduced … to protect one of Florida’s greatest forms of entertainment and revenue resources, the fishing industry.

Law of the Wild

The “Law of the Wild” says kill only when you are hungry. A photographer captured these amazing pictures a couple of years ago and said he was astounded by what he saw:

"These three brothers (cheetahs) have been living together since they left their mother at about 18 months old,' he said.’ On the morning we saw them, they seemed not to be hungry, walking quickly but stopping sometimes to play together. 'At one point, they met a group of impala who ran away. But one youngster was not quick enough and the brothers caught it easily'." These extraordinary scenes followed.

Then they just walked away without hurting him.

When fishing, we too should only keep what we are going to eat, and release the rest. This is why I am so adamant about Catch, Photograph, Release (CPR). That is what this lady, Sheila Daniel of Charlotte, NC, has done every year for over 10 years, as she comes to fish with me every spring … and has caught at least one bass over 8 lbs every year.

Note that even the cheetahs realize that the younger meat is the best, so let your trophies go to make more babies … for your babies to be able to grow up and catch them!

Florida Bassin'

2011-03-18T10:19:00.000-04:00

Thought you might get a kick out of this video one of my recent customers put up on YouTube.

DEER TREE STAND ... I mean SWING

2011-03-03T14:33:00.001-05:00

If you live anywhere in the wilderness or country, you may have had a deer or two wonder into your back yard. You might even have feed or a salt lick available for them. But I never thought of providing things for them to "play" with, so here is one buck that improvised with a backyard tree swing.

Makes you wonder how they got him untangled from the swing! Now that would have made for an interesting video, too.

BOAT LAUNCH PREPAREDNESS, SAFETY & ETIQUETTE

2011-02-15T22:03:00.000-05:00

You saw the picture of the guy launching his boat backwards. I’m not so sure that this actually happened the way they said but, whatever it was, I am sure that something went horribly wrong, which was most likely the result of an oversight of something.

Many people and organizations discuss boating safety, which generally refers to “on the water” activities. And, as important as that is, I would like to discuss an overlooked issue … proper boat launching procedures. As both a guide and a recreational angler, I frequent a lot of public boat ramps and have seen it done almost every way possible – some good, and some really bad.

First, the boater needs to have their trailer properly attached to their towing vehicle with a properly sized hitch ball to match the trailer tongue. It is a good idea to have a hitch lock to prevent theft. Safety chains should come from both sides of the trailer and attach to the bumper, in case the trailer comes off of the hitch. You should have your trailer lights attached to the tow vehicle, whether towing day or night, making sure that everything works – running lights, brake lights, and turn signals. Although your boat is attached to your trailer by the winch strap, on longer hauls it is a good idea to attach the bow eye of the boat to the trailer with an additional mechanism, such as an adjustable double hook, and to have tie-down straps on the back of the boat, on either side of the motor, attaching to the trailer. There are a number of different types available at your local marine dealer or at Payes Trailer Parts located south of Lake Wales on Hwy 60. Smaller motors have pins to raise the motor, but if you have a large motor, a motor-toter is also a good idea because it greatly reduces the stress on the boat’s transom while towing. Put the gear shift in gear so your prop won’t be turning while going down the road, which can damage the bearings. Also, if you are trailering your boat on a long trip you should have a snug cover which will protect the inside of your boat and increase your gas mileage.

Boat Unloading

Before lining up with the ramp, stop in a “pre-stage” area out of the way of those currently launching and do the following preparations:

 Remove all tie-downs or ropes, motor pins or motor-toter, cover, and security mechanism from the bow eye, leaving the winch strap secured;

 Put the drain plug in securely;

 Place whatever items you are taking with you that have not already been put into the boat, such as a cooler, camera, towels, sunscreen, rods and reels, etc.;

 Put the boat key into the ignition and make sure that your fuel bulb is taught

 Check that your engine will start by turning it over till it does and then immediately turn it back off;

 Look at the ramp to assess the condition of the ramp, the length and steepness, and the water level.

 If you are not alone, determine who will back the boat and who will be in the boat, verifying what hand signals to use;

 If you are alone, do one of two things:

o 1) have a long enough rope attached to the bow eye to be able to float your boat off and then pull it over to the dock or the bank so you can immediately pull your trailer off of the ramp, or

o 2) ask another boater that is waiting to launch if he/she would be so kind to help you.

Once you feel that you are thoroughly prepared, proceed to the ramp and, if all clear, line your vehicle and trailer up as straight as possible, in line with the ramp. Back slowly using your side and rear view mirrors, if possible. Remember, when you turn your vehicle’s tires one way, your trailer will aim the opposite way. Make adjustments gradually in small amounts for best results. Back the boat in just far enough for it to float, but where you can get to the bow without stepping into the water. Stop there so you can then detach the winch strap. Again, if you are alone and there was no one available to help, holding onto the rope that is tied to the bow eye, push the boat clear of the trailer and secure it either to the launch dock or to the shore. If you have someone in the boat, ask them to start the motor and then continue backing the boat gradually, being careful not to allow the trailer wheels to fall off the ramp, until the boat driver is able to back the boat clear of the trailer. Usually, this is when the trailer wheels just become submerged in the water. Once the boat is clear, gradually pull forward with the trailer and proceed to the trailer parking area, making sure that you park in the same fashion and alignment as everyone else. Put your vehicle’s keys away securely in a pocket before leaving land so as not to accidently drop them into the water.

Boat Loading

Again, making sure that your vehicle keys are secure in a pocket before leaving the boat, pull your boat up to the launch dock or shoreline, out of the way of launching boats. If the ramp is busy, get in line somewhere in the “pre-stage” area. When it is your turn, line up with the ramp in the same manner as you did for unloading. Back the trailer into the water slowly until the wheels of the trailer are just barely submerged or, if you are not alone, at whatever degree your boat driver signals to you.

If you do have assistance, get out of the vehicle so you can assist the boat driver to align the boat onto the trailer, approaching it slowly but with enough speed to maintain direction. Once the boat meets up with the trailer’s hull supports the driver should slightly increase the throttle to cozy the bow up to the trailer’s bow stop. Once they meet, hook the winch strap and tighten securely.

If you are loading your boat by yourself, go get it and either drive it on yourself or, if you are not proficient with that procedure, use the bow rope to guide it onto the hull supports and, once aligned properly, pull out and attach the winch strap to the bow eye. Crank the winch until the boat is securely against the bow stop.

Slowly pull the boat out of the water up onto the ramp. If there is no other boat waiting to launch, you can stop once you have completely cleared the water. Otherwise, you should continue to pull out of the way of other launchers. Prepare your boat for towing by reattaching all tie-downs, ropes and security mechanisms, removing all items that may blow out, turning off all electronics, removing the plug, propping the motor up and putting it into gear. Make sure that your lights and safety chains are still attached. Also, check your trailer for any grass that may have become attached during launch to eliminate transfer to another lake.

Boat Safety

Everyone should be familiar with both state and local boating laws. Current regulation booklets are usually available wherever fishing licenses are sold or are available online at myfwc.com.

In addition, you will need to pack the right equipment, such personal flotation devices, fire extinguishers, visual distress signals, marine radios, navigation lights and sound-producing devices. Complete information on regulations and equipment standards can also be found on the U.S. Coast Guard’s boating safety website at uscgboating.org.

Help keep and improve public access to Polk County, Florida’s waters by participating in or attending the Rampin’ It Up Big Bass Benefit Tournament on Saturday, April 9th at Lake Shipp Park. Info available at your local tackle shops or at friendsoftheparks.net.

Come see me at the Bridgemaster Fishing Products/Katydid Fishing Products exhibitors booth and say “Hi.”

Polar Bear Fishing

2010-12-28T21:23:00.000-05:00

Talk about "the one that got away....Whew!" I've heard just about every story about that, but this has got to be the best ever! Watch the video below.

Not only did he loose the fish ... but now he has to buy a new net, to boot! Thank goodness there are no Polar bears in Florida.

Don't Let The Trailer Get Too Deep!

2010-12-27T21:18:00.000-05:00

He just bought a new boat and decided to take her for the maiden voyage.

This was his first boat and he wasn't quite sure of the exact Standard Operating Procedures for launching it off a ramp, but he figured it couldn't be too hard.

He consulted his local boat dealer for advice, but they just said "don't let the trailer get too deep when you are trying to launch the boat".

Well, he didn't know what they meant by that as he could barely get the trailer in the water at all! Anyhow, here's a picture below.

You're gonna love this guy!

Folks, you just can't make this stuff up!

And once again, these people breed...and on occasion they vote! Scary!

Website Aid - Snap It!

2010-12-27T15:22:00.000-05:00

SnapIt Screen Capture 3.7

I know this doesn't have anything to do with fishing ... but this little program is great because it allows you to easily capture anything on the screen including windows, menus, full screen, rectangular regions, web pages and take shots of moving images. You can then stick it in a Word or Excel document. You can utilize it to add content to another website ... whatever you need or want!

- Supports hotkeys, auto-saving, clipboard
- Automatically copies screenshots to the clipboard
- Tracks capture history, auto-saves captured images
- Saves files in BMP, GIF, JPEG, PNG and TIFF formats
- Auto-names captured images

And the best part ... you can have it for free if you create a review in any blog/forum/twitter/facebook, etc, and then contact julia.taylor@digeus.com with link to the review, and then she will issue a reg code and name for you. It doesn't get any better than free!

Christmas Fishing

2010-12-17T13:29:00.000-05:00

This season is starting off very similar to last year. The fishing started out quite good, catching bass in around 4' waters along the grass lines with frogs, swim baits, flippin baits and, of course, shiners. Then the cold fronts started coming in again ... about a week apart. Enough time for the air to warm up each time, but not the water temps much.

I've had to change to fishing lakes with deeper water or deeper holes. The bass I have found are grouped up in at least 10' deep water, hanging around 5-6' deep. They will hit shiners and when you set you have them on for awhile and then frequently loose them, getting the shiner back with scales only on the front 1/4 of it. Stinger hooks added don't seem to have much of an effect. If you do hook one, they don't give much of a fight. This cold water has made them very lethargic. Plus, the cold water appears to stun the shiners, keeping them from working the way they normally would. This, in itself, reduced the chance of a strike.

When this situation occurs I have to make a couple of adjustments. First, I drop down in size with my bait, whether live or artificial. Second, I slow down the presentation. If I am pulling shiners, I lower the speed on the trolling motor. I don't stop and anchor up because then the shiners will just nose up into cover and not move at all. If I am fishing with artificial bait, I show down the retrieve. One of my sayings is "If you think you are fishing to slow ... slow down!" Anglers tend to fish too fast, trying to cover more water in less time. You are most likely passing up more fish then you will catch.

I hope this helps improve your "cold front" fishing. We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas, remembering that the greatest "Fisherman" was ... is ... and is yet to come. Hallelujah!

Have a prosperous, joyous New Year!

Capt Dick Loupe and First Mate, Joyce Loupe

Southern Outdoorsman Guide Service

More Tackle

Katydid Fishing Products.

Crappie or Specks

2010-12-09T22:23:00.000-05:00

Well guys and gals, it is that time of the year - if you get my drift! The crappie are on the move. Other names for crappie are papermouths, strawberry bass, speckled bass or specks (especially in Michigan and in the south), speckled perch, calico bass (throughout New England), sac-au-lait (in southern Louisiana, pronounced ‘sack-o-lay’ and meaning "bag of milk") and Oswego bass.

Crappie are a highly regarded game fish and are often considered to be among the best tasting freshwater fish. Therefore, fishing for crappie has become popular throughout much of North America. Crappie/Panfish anglers have been identified by the latest National Survey of Fishing by the Federal Fish and Wildlife agency as the largest freshwater fishing segment in America - 14.2 million. Representing 25% of the total freshwater market, these anglers spend an average of 27 days annually in pursuit of their favorite specie versus the next closest specie at 15 days. Prior to Crappie USA, the first and largest crappie tournament organization in the world and founder of the American Crappie Association, the first and largest association of crappie anglers, this market did not have any national promotional efforts to drive sales of its products and services.

The method of fishing varies, but among the most popular is called "Spider Fishing," a method characterized by a fisherman in a boat with many long poles pointing away from the angler at various angles like the legs of a spider.

Anglers who utilize the Spider Fishing method may choose from among many popular types of bait. Because of their diverse diets, crappie may be caught in many ways, including casting light jigs, trolling with minnows or artificial lures, using small spinnerbaits, or using bobbers. Some of the most popular are plastic jigs with lead jig heads, crankbaits or live minnows. Many anglers also chum or dump live bait into the water to attract the fish hoping the fish will bite their bait. Crappie are also regularly targeted and caught during the spawning period by fly fishermen. Crappie are also popular with ice-anglers, as they are active in winter and can be taken from frozen ponds and lakes in winter by fishing through holes in the ice.

White Crappie

Black Crappie

There are two species, the white crappie and the black crappie. Both are members of the sunfish family. The black crappie is very similar to the white crappie in size, shape, and habits, except that it is darker, with a pattern of black spots. It is usually identified by the seven or eight spines on its dorsal fin. The oldest recorded age of a crappie is fifteen years, although seven years is average. The black crappie tends to prefer clearer water than the white crappie does. Its diet, as an adult, also tends to be less dominated by other fish than that of the white crappie. Both species of crappie, as adults, feed predominantly on smaller species, including the young of their own. They have diverse diets which includes zooplankton, insects, and crustaceans. By day, crappie tend to be less active and like to concentrate around weed beds or submerged objects, such as logs and boulders. They generally tend to feed at dawn and dusk, moving then into open water or approaching the shore. But, during the full moon, they can be caught throughout the night.

The breeding season varies by location, due to the species’ great range; breeding temperature is generally between 58 – 68 degrees (F) and spawning usually occurs between April and June. Spawning occurs in a nest built by the male, who guards the eggs and young. It is very prolific and can overpopulate its environment, with negative consequences both for the crappie and for other fish species. That is why in Florida we are allowed to catch 25 each day, with a 2-day possession limit (check any local limitations). There is no limit as to the amount you may have as long as they have been processed (cleaned) and frozen. They may also be transported across state lines once they have been processed and remain frozen.

Anglers are trolling white and black Beetle Spins and Hal Flies in green and yellow, chartreuse, pink, electric chicken, and off-white. Some are using Roadrunners or just a jig head tipped with a minnow, or only a hook and minnow. They are being caught in and around 7 to 9 feet of water. Now you could just go out and drift, but another way is to go out and look for the other boats. Once you find these guys watch what they are doing and do the same thing. You can learn a lot by observation.

Another way to find out where to fish and what to use is to stop in at your local tackle shop. Most of them are glad to help you with product and information. Okay now let’s talk about the kind of equipment that you will need. As mentioned above, Spider Fishing is the method of choice for the majority of serious crappie anglers. If you have a pontoon boat you will need rod holders like these, which I just happen to manufacture. How about that! You have three ways to mount them.

You can use the triple bay box type that fits over the rail. With this type you have two stainless bolts that go just under the rail with two wing nuts to hold it snug to the rail. You are not weakening the rail by drilling holes in it and they are easily removed when not needed.

Then you have the triple bay flat. This model can be mounted on any flat service, such as a dock or the flat railing of a boat, or on top of the railing of a pontoon boat if the railing is too large or too small to use the triple bay box type.

And then you have the single bay. You can put these on the rail like I have done here on my pontoon or stagger them on a dock or any flat service. Drill a one quarter inch hole and put approximately a 2-inch stainless bolt up through the bottom. Slide the holder down on the bolt and then put the washer on. Use the wing nut to tighten it down.

All of these rod holders come with 18-8 American made stainless hardware and they are guaranteed as long as you own it. This will be the last rod holder you will ever own! By the way, it is made of high-density polyethylene (HDEP). It won’t break and will not discolor. To see additional pictures go to http://www.katydidfishingproducts.com/, or give us a call at 1-888-692-2208 and we will set you up with one of our dealers in your area.

Now that we got that out of the way, let’s talk a little about fishing poles. You can use cane poles or “extension poles” that extend in and out, ranging from an extended length of 8 to 20 feet. There are numerous brands, such as Wonderpole, B&M, etc. and some even come with guides for those who want to use a small reel. You can find these at most of your local tackle stores or we carry the Wonderpole at our online store, http://www.moretackle.com/. Folks, we are just getting into the speck fishing season here in Florida, so get your gear all lined up and ready to go.

Big Fish Store

2010-11-21T14:13:00.000-05:00

The best fishing story of all time:

The story of Jonah from Corinth Baptist Church on Vimeo.

SO, YOU THINK YOU WANT TO BE A FRESHWATER FISHING GUIDE …

2010-11-08T20:39:00.000-05:00

You might think that being a freshwater fishing guide has got to be the ultimate dream job for anyone who likes to fish. Yes … and No!

Pros – You get to:

be outdoors and on the water more than any other job;
either introduce or enjoy sharing a terrific outdoor sport;
spend more time within the Lord’s glorious natural wonders;
wear casual clothes to work;

Cons – You need to:

get up way before the sun rises;
work outside, no air conditioning … so to speak;
refrain from fishing while guiding customers (or should);
have to clean your bait tank before adding a new batch;
keep your boat(s) cleaned up;
keep your ride cleaned up;
keep your equipment in good working order;
purchase many more items than if you were just fishing by yourself;
have a captain’s license, if using certain navigable waters, which continually costs a substantial sum;
teach those who have never fished before;
entertain customers when fishing is slow.

Let me break it down …

Preparation (usually the day before) – Call your customer to confirm the trip and finalize meeting location, etc., usually a long-distance cellphone call. $ Drain the bait tank and scrub it with bleach. Rinse thoroughly and fill with fresh, clean (preferably filtered) water. Add chemical to maintain a good slime coat on the new bait. You need to keep a supply of chemicals on hand for use in the bait tank and in the boat. $ Drive to your local bait supplier and buy whatever is needed. $ If you have several days in a row you can get by with purchasing them all and maintaining them in your own tank. Of course, that means that you must actually have your own tank, along with an air pump, hoses, stones, water recirculation pump, water filter, and filter materials that must be maintained and periodically replaced; along with an electrical supply, since the air pump and water filter must run continually. $

Check all rods to make sure that the guides are okay and that no ceramic inserts are nicked, which can cause line breaks. Check the reels to make sure all are in good working order, also checking the line for any frays, retying all hooks. Have a supply of extra hooks and floats on board; replenish if necessary. $ Also, you need to periodically change your line, as line weakens over time and with exposure to heat and sunlight. This goes for both mono and braid, so you need to have a backup supply of line. $

Clear out clutter in your boat and ride that accumulated since your last cleanup. This helps to make your passengers be comfortable and feel welcomed. Check tire inflation on your ride and boat trailer, checking tread wear for possible replacement requirements. $ Also, check bearings on the trailer, as these also need to be greased and periodically replaced. $ Make sure you have sufficient fuel in both your ride and your boat, refueling if necessary. $ Verify that you have a sufficient number of life vests for the number of persons to be onboard. $ Check to make sure all batteries are fully charged. If not, connect them to your charger(s). $

If you provide ice and bottled water, as I do, you will need to buy ice if you do not have your own icemaker, and bottled water. $ Fill your cooler with ice and stock with water, leaving room for your customers to bring other items that need to be kept cold. If rain is a possibility, have lightweight inexpensive ponchos or rain jackets stowed away. $ Hook the boat to your ride, making sure trailer lights are working properly.

Set out clothing for tomorrow, making sure guide shirt is presentable, even if ironing is required. Guys, don’t expect your wife to do this because this is the age of “permanent press.” A “guide shirt” usually has your name and business logo embroidered on it and is made from a quick dry, UV protection material. Long sleeve is best for UV protection. $ You should carry a camera along so you have fresh advertising material. $ Make sure that the battery for your camera is charge up, along with your cell phone. You should always carry a cell phone if for no other purpose than emergencies. I know of a time when a guide was on the water and his customer had a heart attack. He called 911 and the EMTs met them at the ramp, which saved the man’s life. $

Day Of – Rise and shine around 4:30am and shower to assist waking up. Be neat to present yourself as a professional. Apply a good high SPF sunscreen, having another bottle on board to reapply when fishing for an extended period. According to my dermatologist, sunscreen is much more effective when applied in advance, and recommends Neutrogena 85+. $ Eat a light but substantial healthy breakfast. Grab any snacks you might want to take along for the day, preferably something with protein for energy. Don’t forget the camera and your cell phone. Also, take a hat and sunglasses for added protection. Too much sunlight on the eyes can increase the chance of cataracts.

Add water and chemical to your live well. Using a bucket with a few inches of water, net up the bait for that day, pour them into the live well, and turn on the aerator. If any bait died overnight, remove them so as not to contaminate the rest. See that the air stone is producing enough air. If not, use a sharp edged object to scrape the surface of the air stone which can become clogged with algae buildup. Double check your trailer/light connections. Verify that all the rods are back on the boat. Disconnect battery chargers and, if you are sure that everything is set, drive to the agreed upon location to meet your customers.

Then go to whatever waters you have the greatest confidence in. This is usually generated from prior successful guide trips coupled with fishing various waters on your own to keep updated. This requires extra fuel and live or artificial bait. $

Now is when the fun kicks in, but only if you are one of those rare guides that enjoys seeing someone else catch fish without doing it yourself. There is nothing more infuriating to a paying customer than to watch the guide catch the trophy-sized fish that they had their heart set on. Sure there are times when instructions are not enough and you may have to set on a fish for someone to reel in, but immediately hand them the rod once you have set the hook. Remember, they are paying for that thrill. So, bait their hook for them; cast the rod for them; tell them how and when to set the hook; net the fish for them; entertain them and/or their children with conversation if the fish aren’t biting. Basically … wait on them hand and foot. This is how you establish a good rapport and generate repeat business. Especially if you are having a bad day and this is their first time with you. This generates the best and cheapest advertising, but you need to supplement this with a website and brochures and/or business cards placed in strategic locations. $

If your trip is for 8 hours you may need to take your customers to a location on the waters where lunch may be obtained. Some customers like to keep a few smaller fish for eating, so it is nice if you have some bags for this purpose or, if you really want to make an impression - filet the fish for them. Generally you collect payment at the conclusion of the trip. Some guides only accept cash but, to be flexible in today’s economy, you should accept most major credit/debit cards. This requires you to have a merchant service account. $ Return your customers to where you picked them up and let them know how much you enjoyed taking them fishing. Give them some business cards so they can tell their friends.

Now you can return home … to return unused bait to your main tank, remove clutter from your boat and ride, and you may need to hose out the carpet if any spills occurred. If you haven’t already, drain your live well and remove the screen so you can rinse out the bait scales. Attach your battery chargers to the batteries so you will be ready at a moment’s notice. Check your bait tank and remove any dead ones, add chemical if necessary, and feed them cracker meal or wheat germ if they have been in captivity for very long. $

Are you ready to do it all over again tomorrow?

By the way, in case you didn't catch it ... the dollar signs ($) represent all of a guide's costs.

Free Fishing Tournament

2010-10-23T21:52:00.000-04:00

Gambler Lures is having their No Entry Fee Tournament on Lake Okeechobee out of Clewiston on December 12, 2010. You just have to fish with any Gambler Lure product.

Follow the link to get your entry fee and then go to http://www.moretackle.com/ to get great deals on a lot of their closeouts and discontinued items.

Who knows ... maybe I'll see you there!

Best Fishes and God Bless,

Capt Dick

2010-10-23T21:38:00.000-04:00

I would like to start this off by saying that this guide trip was one of the best fishing trips that I have had as a guide; both catching fish and spiritually. On this trip I had a granddad, two sons, and one grandson. Wow, what a trip this was, three generations. This is what being out in God’s great outdoors, and being one with nature, is one of the greatest things a family can do.

Lemler Boys

Granddad, Dewayne Lemler, age 62, and has been married to the same woman, Diane, for 42 years. He has resided in Avon Park, FL since 1957 and retired after 40 years as an educator and high school principal in both Highland and Polk counties. They are members of the First Baptist Church of Avon Park and are active in both local and state Baptist programs. They have 3 sons, Dustin, Darren, and Doug, and have 6 grandchildren, Ian, Morgan, Jillian, Kiersten, Joshua, and Alaina. He enjoys fishing, remodeling and spending time with his grandchildren. Dewayne’s largest fish is a 6 lb freshwater bass.

Dustin Lemler, age 40, grew up in Avon Park and, after graduating from Palm Beach Atlantic College in 1992, he now resides in Franklin, Tennessee. Dustin also has worked in the education system as a band director for 8 years in the Tampa Bay area. He has a strong faith basis, working at The People’s Church as Director of Visual Arts & Production for the past 10 years. He enjoys sports cars, raising tropical fish, and spending time with family. Dustin’s largest fish is a 5 lb freshwater bass and a 26 lb saltwater snook.

Darren Lemler, age 37, also grew up in Avon Park and, after graduating from Clearwater Christian College in 1996, now resides in Largo, FL with his wife, Erin and their 4 children. He owns his own company DRLemler Inc., is a member of the First Baptist Church of Indian Rocks, and works as a general building contractor. He enjoys hunting, fishing, and sports. Darren’s largest fish is a 5 foot tarpon in saltwater and an 11 lb 9 oz bass in freshwater.

Ian Lemler is Darren’s his oldest son and shares his father’s passion for fishing, along with other sports, such as little league baseball and soccer. Ian is a huge fan of the Tampa Bay Rays. Ian’s largest fish is a freshwater bass at 7 lb 11 oz.

What bonds this family of men together is their Christian faith and their love of fishing, hunting, and sports in general. We shared all kinds of fish stores and spiritual stories, and boy oh boy did we catch fish, as you can see by these pictures. And this is in the middle of the summer! As the old saying goes - “dog days of summer,” so this is usually the hardest time of the year to catch bass. First of all, the lake has been drawn down low so they can work on all the locks. Secondly, the water temperature is between 85-90 degrees and that makes it tough. Plus, the outside temperature is in the 90’s, making the heat index in the 100’s.

Now, let’s take time to talk about the trip. Daren called me and wanted to do a bass fishing trip on July 13, so we all met at the Hwy 60 bridge on Kissimmee. I had the pontoon boat already in the water before daybreak. We went up the lake about 4 or 5 miles. Now the fun begins. I put down the trolling motor, put Ian and his Uncle Dustin from Tennessee in the two back seats and put two shiners out the back, placing the rods in the rod holders. We began to pull the edge of the Kissimmee grass line. It wasn’t but a few minutes that Ian had a 4 ¾ lb bass and then the fun began to increase. Everybody got into the action: Dewayne got a 5 ½-5 ¾ lb bass; then Dustin caught one around 5 lb; Darren caught the biggest at 7 ¾ lb. All in all, they caught fish all morning. We experienced great fellowship and thanked the Lord up above for giving us a great morning on the lake.

Until next time, God bless, be safe, and good fishing,

Capt Dick

Bluegill & Shellcracker

2010-10-07T21:48:00.000-04:00

These two fish are one of Florida’s most sought after species, and all of this starts around late March/early April and goes through late July. This is when they all gang up to have a “party” of sorts. In other words, this is when they move up in the pads and grass line to spawn.

Man, can you have a good time! This is the time to take a kid fishing if you want to see a pair of little eyes light up and a smile from ear to ear. You sure won’t be disappointed, I promise.

I had a chance to go and watch a master of the sport at work. This gentleman is 74 years young and, take it from me; he is the best at doing this kind of fishing that I have ever had the pleasure of being on the water with.

Charlie Bishop has lived at Grape Hammock Fish Camp on the south end of Lake Kissimmee for around 21 years. Now you won’t find him around the camp in the mornings because he gets out on the lake early so he won’t miss the Lord’s daily present.

He comes in around 10 am, when you will most likely find him and his best friend, his Beagle dog, riding throughout the park.

Now, back to fishing – Contrary to popular belief, Bluegill and Shellcracker are not in the Perch family.

Bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus), sometimes referred to as bream, brim, sunfish, or copper nose, is a member of the Centrarchidae family or, more commonly known, as the Sunfish family. It is native to a wide area of North America, all the way from Quebec, Canada to northern Mexico. It is even the state fish of Illinois. They are a round shaped fish that is highly variable in color, ranging from dark blue or almost purple to yellow, with six to eight vertical bars on the sides and a red to orange belly. The Bluegill's most notable feature is the broad, round black "ear" which is actually an extension of the gill. Its name, however, comes from the bright blue edging visible on its gill rakers. The colors are very vivid in the males when they are spawning. World record is 4 pounds, 12 ounces and was caught in 1950. Most will run from six to eight inches long as adults and weigh anywhere from 1/4 to 1 pound.

When the water is over 65 degrees on the full moon Bluegill will spawn. They will spawn every full moon from early spring and all the way through summer in most southern states. They are attracted to light and will come to lights on docks at night to feed on insects that are attracted by the light. Some Bluegill will grow to a maximum size of nearly 5 pounds, and a maximum overall length of approximately 16 inches.

They are mean and testy. Bluegill will eat anything they can get in their mouth, including insects, worms, small minnows and crayfish. They can be caught on all kinds of live bait including crickets, earthworms, meal worms, freshwater shrimp and small minnows. Artificial bait that is good for Bluegill includes small spinners and jigs as well as all kinds of dry and wet flies. When Charlie goes looking for these fish, he will ride around and look for the lily pads to be shaking or bumping. But you can also smell them. Once he finds this kind of area, he puts a cricket on and starts fishing.

The kind of equipment to use – Charlie likes to use a 14 foot cane pole with 20 lb Berkley Big Game, a #6 long shank Mustad hook, a slip float, and a #4 pinch-on sinker. Before you put anything on your line, you put a bobber stop, which you can slide up and down the line. So, if you are fishing in let’s say 4 feet of water and you want your bait 1 foot off the bottom, you slide the bobber stop to 3-3 ½ feet. Once you find the right depth, you set the bait in around the pads and you drop the rod tip towards the water. The weight will pull the line through the slip float and this will make the float stand straight up. If the float lays flat then you just pull your bobber stop down the line until the float stands upright. Then you know you are off the bottom, which is the key because the cricket will be able to move around on the hook. When the float moves just a little, set the hook and hold on.

Shellcracker (Lepomis microlophus), are actually redear sunfish, but are also known as Georgia bream, cherry gill, chinquapin, improved bream, stumpknocker, and sun perch. Therefore, they are in the same Sunfish family as the Bluegill. Shellcracker are native to the southeastern United States, but because of its popularity, it has been introduced to waters all over North America.

It generally resembles the Bluegill except for coloration and somewhat larger size. The back of a Shellcracker is light green to brown with scattered darker spots. The light gray to silver sides have 34 to 43 lateral line scales. Lower surfaces of the head and belly are light yellow to white. Sides of the head are mottled with brown to dark orange spots. The dorsal fin is light gray with nine to 11 spines and 10 to 12 rays. The light yellow to white anal fin has three spines and 12 to 14 rays. The pectoral fin has 13 or 14 rays and it is long and pointed, its end reaching past the nostril when bent forward. The world record is 5 pounds, 7 ounces, but most will run from 8 to 11 inches long as adults and weigh from about 3/4 to 2 pounds.

During spawning, males congregate and create nests close together in colonies, and females visit to lay eggs. Each Shellcracker will usually only lay once each spring, although they sometimes socialize with other sunfish species. They may come to lights on docks at night to feed on insects but not as much as their cousins, the Bluegill and Crappie. Shellcracker generally tend to feed best during the day. The favorite food of this species is freshwater mussels, snails, worms, shrimp, insects and grubs. These fish are bottom feeders, meandering along lakebeds seeking and cracking open snails and other shelled creatures, hence the common name of “shellcracker”. Shellcracker are fished differently than Bluegill. Instead of crickets, you use wigglers (worms) and they are fished on the bottom. It is very important that this bait lies on the bottom right in their nest.

Now let’s talk a little about equipment. Charlie likes the cane pole, but there are poles, referred to as “extension poles”, that extend in and out, ranging from an extended length of 8 feet to 20 feet. There are numerous brands, such as Wonderpole, B & M, etc and some even come with guides, for those who prefer to use a small reel. These are available at most local tackle stores and online. These poles are good for a lot of people because they can be carried in the trunk of a car. Everything else is rigged the same as for Bluegill fishing.

Let’s take time out from fishing to give you some tips –

Hook Holders

Many spinning/baitcast rods come without a hook holder to put your hook through. You never want to put your hook through one of the guides because you could damage it. So, take a number 47-60 “O” ring and, using a tie wrap, wrap it around the rod a few inches above the handle. That will last for a long time. You can also use an “O” ring on the handle of a cane or extension pole to loop your hook under when stowed away.

Tongue Protector

This tip is for you guys and gals who don’t have a garage to keep your boat in. Go to one of the hardware stores and buy a piece of round drain pipe, the flexible kind. Cut a slit in the bottom so that your tongue wheel will slide past. This will protect your tongue from the weather.

Rod Cozies

Take a one gallon baggy and cut out one corner at the bottom. Slide your rod handle through the cut out corner and then, once you pull the handle through, slide it over the reel and zip it up. Then you can hang it up with your other rods in your garage. This will keep your reels clean until you are ready to use them again.

Keep what you can eat and release the rest for the next time. Remember, the daily bag limit is 50 panfish, which includes bluegill, shellcracker, flier, longear sunfish, mud sunfish, shadow bass, spotted sunfish (stumpknockers), warmouth and redbreast sunfish, individually or in total; and the possession limit is two days’ bag limit.

Bassboat vs Pontoon Boat

2010-09-28T15:38:00.001-04:00

In the last decade or so of fishing, the “bassboat” reigned as king of the waters. It was the only way to appear that you knew what you were doing, especially when it came to bass fishing. It is understandably the best type of boat for tournaments because a bassboat can handle a monstrous motor that will provide you with more fishing time and less time getting to and from that prime fishing spot.
In recent years, there has been competition among the boat industry to come up with the ultimate bassboat. One with enough storage room to store every type of lure necessary to mankind; one with enough deck room to be able to fish from any angle without two people being crowded on any one location of the boat; one that will keep the largest bass known to man alive all day in a well no bigger than she is; one to accommodate the largest high-powered outboard motor on the market so you will get to that “secret” fishing spot before anyone else does; one with enough bells and whistles on it that it requires a Master’s degree in electronics; one with seats that will make you think you are riding in s sports car; one with such a unique design and color scheme that it demands attention and respect.

That’s all fine, well and good so long as you’re a die-hard tournament fisherperson determined to eventually become the next “Bill Dance” or “Roland Martin.” But in the real world, most people are just looking to have a relaxing day on the water, catch a few rays, catch a few fish, and catch some quality time with their family. And for those folks that either don’t have enough spare time to devote to fishing enough to justify owning their own boat, or for the ones that have acquired a new-found interest in the sport, there are numerous fishing guide businesses all over the country offering their expertise, boat, use of tackle and other provisions; all for a modest fee, of course.

Within that same decade the pontoon boat got a reputation for being the boat used strictly for panfishing, or having a party on the water, or just lazily cruising around. It just makes good sense – in tournament fishing you’re only allowed to have one rod with a lure in the water at a time, where when fun fishing the sky is the limit. That’s how the nickname “spider fishing” came about when you see pontoon boats with rods or cane poles sticking out all the way around the boat; hence the population of rod holders.

But as of late, the boat manufacturers have crossed the line with the pontoon boat, coming out with a model designed specifically for fishing. Ones with fishing chairs front and back; ones with live wells for keeping bait and/or fish alive (everyone knows it is better to filet a live fish than a dead one … don’t they?); ones heavy duty enough to carry a big enough outboard motor rival some of the smaller bassboats; ones already equipped with trolling motors and the latest technological electronics for fishing; ones with built-in coolers and stereos for entertainment; ones with enclosed port-a-potties under the sundeck; and ones, no less, with bimini tops for shade and some even have extension covers to convert the pontoon boat into something nearer resembling a houseboat. I like to refer to it as the “luxury” or “Cadillac” version of fishing.

There are still those out there that are stuck with the idea that the only way to catch fish is with a bassboat; especially the guides. That’s fine for the competitors that are looking for local info prior to a tournament; but I’m here to tell you that if the fish were that smart, they would school up and turn your boat over! Some say it’s because that is what customers expect because they watch the fishing shows on TV and, of course, they’re only using bassboats. Some say that when customers are paying to fish, they don’t want to take “all day” traveling. Well, that may be true for some folks that have never been fishing before in their lives and are actually more interested in riding in a supped up, skim the top of the waves kind of boat that is actually more like a ride at Disney than a fulfilling day of fishing. But, recently, quite a few of the guides are coming around to the idea that luxury is more of what the majority of people are looking for when considering hiring a guide to fish, especially if it is part of a vacation. Of course, they still expect the guide to have enough expertise to put them on fish and tell them how to catch ‘em; but that goes unsaid (or it should, anyway).

Personally, I like the idea of being able to offer a choice: bassboat or pontoon boat – what’s your preference?

Youth For Christ Lakeland Golf Classic

2010-09-28T15:19:00.000-04:00

BBQ & Auction

2010-09-28T15:15:00.000-04:00

This year there is no charge for the BBQ, just a request for donations. We went last year and the food was excellent and they had so many great things in the auction. I have donated two fishing trips and our manufacturing company, Katydid Fishing Products LLC, donated a bunch of their new fishing rod holders. If you want to check them out, go to http://www.katydidfishingproducts.com/. This year they even have a car going up for auction!

This is an extremely worthwhile cause, as our youth create our future. There is more than one way to invest in our future. Hope to see you there!

2nd Annual Ron Hardy "The Bridgemaster" Memorial Fishing Tournament

2010-09-24T23:17:00.001-04:00

presents

Second Annual

Ron Hardy

"The Bridgemaster"

Memorial Fishing Tournament

Saturday

April 16, 2011

Lake Kissimmee

Grape Hammock Fish Camp

50% cash payback + a total of $1500 guaranteed, paid down 10 places

Big Bass Pot

1st place = $600

2nd place = $400

goody bags for all entrants

raffles for prizes and 50/50 cash drawing

refreshments, snacks, hamburgers & hot dogs on sale 11am - 4pm

Contact Joyce Loupe at joleece@gmail.com for an entry form.

All proceeds to benefit the Youth For Christ of Polk County

More Tackle & Katydid Fishing Products LLC

2010-09-07T21:37:00.000-04:00

Again, we are sorry for the delay in posting. My wife and I have been so busy that we don't even know which way is up. We started another company, Katydid Fishing Products, LLC, and we are manufacturing fishing rod holders. Joyce has been busy creating the business cards, the brochure, and the website. While I have been on the road introducing them to dealers.

You know the rod holders that a lot of people use on their boats or docks that were made out of PVC? Yeah, the ones that turn yellowish in the sun, get discolored from various chemical spills, and crack or break after continuous exposure to the sun's unrelenting heat. We made ours out of high-density polyethylene that resists stains and has a UV protectant infused into the material. It is form molded and ridge reinforced for strength and durability. Plus, they come with a lifetime warranty to the original owner. They come in a variety of forms for various uses on boats and docks.

You can check them out at http://www.katydidfishingproducts.com/. If anyone would be interested in becoming a dealer, you are only required to purchase a minimum of 25 units, in any combination, and you will receive our lowest price. Contact us at 888-692-2208 or info@katydidfishingproducts.com for more information or to place an order.

Well, it's been over a year now since More Tackle "opened its doors." We have periodically added more and more items until we now have over 450 items to choose from. We added a section for Rod Components, so if you can't find the rod you want ... build it!

We have had orders from all over the country, plus Canada, England, and Malaysia. We have had repeat orders from some of our customers - up to 4 or 5 from some. That tells us that we must be doing something right. We even had a long article written by our Malaysia customer on his blog. To read it, go to http://guerillafishan.blogspot.com/2010/08/moretackle-amerika-syarikat.html. It made us very proud.

Soon we will be adding even more products, so check it out periodically. Or, if you prefer to be notified of the additions, send your email address to info@moretackle.com and ask to be added to the newsletter mailing list. We only send it out every few months, so we won't be bugging you all the time.

Best Fishes and God Bless,

Dick & Joyce Loupe

PS - Promise it won't take so long to hear from us again.

Benefit Bass Fishing Tournament

2010-01-30T17:23:00.000-05:00

First Annual

Ron Hardy

"The Bridgemaster"

Memorial Bass Fishing Tournament

Benefiting

Saturday, March 6, 2010

Grape Hammock Fish Camp

There is a guaranteed payback of $500 for 1st, $300 for 2nd, $200 for 3rd, plus 50% of the entry fees. If we receive 100 boats the cash payback will go down ten places. Also, there will be prizes awarded for 11th through ? place. Plus, each angler will receive a goody bag at registration.

Big Bass Pot = $600 for largest bass; $400 for 2nd largest bass (based on 100 boat participation)

There will be a prize raffle, 50/50 cash raffle, a hard luck award for the smallest single bass weighed in. Hog dogs, chips, drinks, and candy will be sold by volunteers of the Youth for Christ Ministries.

For entry forms, contact Joyce at 863-692-2208 or email info@moretackle.com.

More Tackle Additions

2009-11-09T11:39:00.003-05:00

I wanted to update everyone with a list of the items that have been recently added to our online tackle store, More Tackle. We have had very good response to our advertising resulting in orders coming in almost daily, which is great since we didn't go live until the second week of July. We are getting orders from repeat customers, call-in orders from non-internet users (which means they heard about us), and a couple of international orders, too.

We will continue to add new items to the site and last month we added a "Used" category that will be getting more and more attention as time goes on. At this time, these are items we have procured locally, but we may turn it into a means for all US anglers to be able to sell their used fishing products that they are no longer using. We will have to see what kind of response we get first.

If there is a particular item or items that you would like to see available through our site, just email us at info@moretackle.com and let us know your preferences. We will try to meet your needs, best we can.

Best Fishes and God Bless,

Capt Dick

PRODUCT ADDITIONS

Spinning reels:
Pflueger Supreme XT
Okuma Avenger spinning reels - AV-20, AV40 & AV65
Penn 103CS spinning reel
Penn Spinfisher 430SS spinning reel
Baitcasting reels:
Quantum Tour Edition "Burner"
Quantum Code
Pfleuger Trion
Pfleuger President
Spincast reels:
Bass Pro Tiny-Lite (push button)
Bass Pro Underspins
Trolling reels:
Penn 209M Levelwind trolling reel
Penn 9M Levelwind trolling reel
Combos:
Penn Captiva
Zebco 202 Spincast Reel and Rod Combo
Rods:
Shakespeare Wonderpoles in 9', 10', 12', 13', 16', and 20' - great for crappie and brim fishing.
Okuma 7' Halogen rod
Shimano 7' Sojourn rod
Intruder 6 1/2 ft Rod
Lures:
Charlie's Worms
Premium Panfish Crickets
Sliding Weight Shrimp
Barracuda Rigs
Pompano Rigs
Acme Kastmaster
Acme Phoebe
Acme Frisky Fish
Needle Fish Trout Trolling Wobblie
Matzuo Sea Spit & Sputter
Matzuo Spit & Sputter
Matzuo Captain Hook
Matzuo Fantastic Minnow
Matzuo Jointed Fantastic Minnow
Matzuo Salty Dog
Matzuo Shallow Seeker
Matzuo Nano Crank
Heddon Teeny Torpedo in 7 colors
Accessories:
Meyerco Knives (several styles)
Tyzac Cast Nets (5, 6, 7 ft)
Mister Twister fillet knife
Flambeau soft-sided tackle packs (green and "cure pink")
Rapala stainless steel pliers
HT Enterprises heavy duty minnow net
Thermacell Mosquito Repellant & Refills
Line:
Stren Easy Cast line
Jigs:
Shakey head jigs (football, round, grass slipper) with Gamakatsu hooks, 5 to a bag
Ford Fender Model A trolling rigs
12 Fathom Break Away Jig Heads
Terminal Tackle:
Drop shot weights, bag of 10
Reconditioned:
Penn Pursuit Spinning Rod

Picasso

2009-08-24T17:45:00.003-04:00

I came across a quote the other day (don't know who wrote it):

"You can paint a painting with Picasso's paint brush, but it doesn't make your painting a Picasso."

With a little rewrite, I came up with this:

"You can fish with Kevin Van Dam fishing tackle, but it doesn't make you a top professional fisherman."

Don't get me wrong. most of the professionals come up with some very good products, but a lot of it is just promotional hype. Sometimes you need to find what works best for you, and sometimes there just isn't anything already out there that suits you just perfect. So experiment ... consider building your own fishing rod. Start with the type of blank you prefer to fish with, then add the type of guides and tip you like, next select the reel seat, and finally add your pick of handles. Now you've got yourself a professional fishing rod with YOUR name on it (so to speak).

At More Tackle we are creating a department specifically for building your own fishing rods. Be it saltwater or freshwater, spinning or baitcasting, you can get almost anything your heart desires and make it all your own. Check it out soon and consider creating your next painting with your own personal paintbrush.

Shaky Head Jigs

2009-08-13T23:03:00.006-04:00

Round Shaky Head Jig
Football Shaky Head Jig
Grass Slipper Shaky Head Jig

Shaky Head fishing was a guarded secret among touring pros — that is until Kevin VanDam won the Elite 50 tournament on Lake Lewisville, Tex. and shattered the lake record with a giant 11-pound, 13-ounce largemouth.

VanDam used the technique in his next three victories, but he wasn't alone. It's become a go-to technique for a number of pros that say it works anywhere, anytime. Guys like Jeremy Starks of West Virginia and Bink Desaro of Idaho are shaky head aficionados who have seen the technique save the day on more than one occasion. Whereas Shaky Head fishing is best suited for rocky bottoms, sandy flats or around sparse grass beds, it can be fished around the edges of thicker cover and in water from 1 to 40 feet deep.

It's a killer around riprap banks, secondary points and deep boulders. Northern smallmouth anglers, who have always relied on tube jigs for catching numbers of big smallmouth, are discovering the shaky rig is a good alternative when the big ol' brown fish are snubbing tubes.

And best of all, it's an easy rig to fish.

Basically, shaky wormin' involves a straight tail finesse worm fashioned weedless on a small, ball head jig. Once rigged, make a long cast and let the bait fall. Be ready — many strikes occur in the first three seconds after the bait contacts the bottom.

If not, began shaking the rod tip in short, rapid bursts, maintaining some slack in the line while you hold the rod in a 10 o'clock position.

This movement keeps the worm vertical and the tail quivering seductively. Don't hop the jig — inch it along and keep it dancing like a creature feeding along the lake bottom.

The gear you use and the manner in which the worm is rigged is important to the proper presentation. Some anglers prefer baitcast tackle, but a 7-foot medium action spinning rod is best because it fishes light line better, and light line imparts more action in the bait. Eight and 10 pound line is preferred and basic monofilament works, but sensitive fluorocarbon line transmits subtle bites better.

Most strikes feel like a simple tick or tap at the end of the line, or, if the fish are aggressive, they'll gobble the worm and streak off with it.

While a 4½-inch finesse worm produces more bites, 6- and 7-inch styles, especially the floating variety, attract bigger fish. And if you take a poll of the pros' favorite colors, you'll find shades of green, especially green pumpkin, watermelon or watermelon candy, are high on their lists.

To rig the shaky worm, enter the hook point into the head, push it out the side, and then roll it over so that the hook point enters the main body and protrudes through the top. You can leave the hook in the belly, but better yet, push it through and skin-hook the barb on the topside of the worm.

Some anglers prefer to leave a little hump in the worm between the jig head and the barb. This bend provides additional action and can make the worm more attractive to wary bass.

Find these and other goodies at More Tackle.

reBlog from Kenny Breckenridge: Kenny's Great Outdoors

2009-08-11T23:19:00.001-04:00

I found this fascinating quote today:

1) You have a power worm dangling from your rear view mirror because you think it makes a good air freshener.Kenny Breckenridge, Kenny's Great Outdoors, Aug 2009

You should read the whole article.

Busy, Busy, Busy

2009-07-30T22:48:00.002-04:00

Boy, has it been a busy time ... not just for fishing, but for working on our new business. The tackle store site is beginning to get some sales ... even before we have it all loaded with product. So far we have added over 400 products, and still counting.

Right now we are trying to get our rod components added in. That way customers can build their own fishing rods exactly to their own specifications ... at a reasonable price, too. We have great supplies from manufacturers like Rainshadow, Forecast, Alps, and Solid Works.

We also have a section for reconditioned, or as I prefer to think of it as recycled, rods and reels. They all carry a 30 day warranty and I personally guarantee the reconditioned reels because I am the one who repaired them and got them in top notch working order. Of course, we have them all at terrific prices, too.

Stop by, take a look, let me know what you think of the new store.

Get more, save more, fish more. After all, that's what's most important, right?

Father and daughter sharing quality time fishing together with the Southern Outdoorsman Guide Service.

2009-07-30T16:17:00.001-04:00

captdick Father and daughter sharing quality time fishing together with the Southern Outdoorsman Guide Service. http://twitgoo.com/1ys74

Wait for greener Weights

2009-07-28T13:31:00.002-04:00

I'm sure you have heard all the hoopla about lead ... the dangers of it and all. Well, fishing with lead weights is a bad thing, too. The lead leeches out into the water and contaminates everything that comes in contact with it.

There are new weights available now in Tungsten. These lead-free weights are better for more than one reason. Of course, the most important is no lead. But, in addition to that, Tungsten is heavier (denser) per its size. Therefore, a 1/4 ounce Tungsten weight is smaller and slimmer than its counterpart in lead. This will make it fish easier, with less hangups, and penetrate cover better.

Sounds like a win-win situation for both Mother Nature and us anglers. We will try to bring you some good deals on these new weights on our tackle site, More Tackle, but in the meantime we still have other weights at rock bottom prices.

GET MORE, SAVE MORE, FISH MORE

2009-06-17T15:31:00.005-04:00

Well, it's finally happened. We have gone live with our new online tackle outlet store, More Tackle. In its infancy, we have started small with around 350 products, but will continue to grow and grow over the years to come. Our goal is to provide you with deep discounts on hard-to-find products that you have come to love over the years but can no longer find, either online or at brick and mortar retail stores.

To begin with, we have the following "departments:"

Rods
Reels
Rod & Reel Combos
Reconditioned Rods, Reels, & Combos
Clothing
Baits, Lures & Tackle
Boating Supplies
Electronics
Fishing Accessories
Rod Components
Novelty/Gift Items
Hot Deals
Clearance Items
Bulk Sales

A lot of the items we offer have been discontinued, therefore the supply is limited. So it's first come, first served on those items. That's why you may not be able to find them anywhere else. But that's the whole idea. Have you ever noticed how you come across something that you really like after trying it ... only to find out that you should have bought the store out because they quit carrying it as soon as you went back for more? Well, that has happened to me so many times that I decided to do something about it ... or at least as much as I could without going into the manufacturing business!

Also, we will be carrying reconditioned rods and reels, which will all carry a 30-day warranty. And, if you prefer to either fix or build your own rods, we will eventually have one of the largest selections of rod components available online - at some of the best prices online, too.

Keep checking back with the site because stock will be constantly changing. So, if you're looking for something in particular, we might not have it right now but we could at any time in the future. Or, if you would like to be added to our mailing list, send your email address to CaptDick@MoreTackle.com so we can notify you of updates to the site. Let us know if there is anything special you have been looking for and we will try to locate it.

Remember, we're not looking to get rich. We just want to help provide you with a viable way to get items that you've missed at a price you can live with. When you go to checkout you will see that shipping has not been included in the product prices. We have done this because shipping prices vary according to location and total weight or size of package(s). Why should one person living in the next state have to pay the same as someone clear across the country? Also, this way you see your actual cost of the product(s) without extras added in. We only charge for shipping - no handling or packaging fees are added in.

That way you can get more, save more, and fish more ... with More Tackle.

Enjoy!

Spring into June

2009-06-06T13:34:00.003-04:00

I don't know if it's the rain we have been getting for the last two weeks raising the water levels, or the fact that the temperatures have not been too high because of the afternoon rains, or the fact that a rise in water level increases the forage. All I know is that the fishing is still great.

This 7/12 lb largemouth bass caught by Brian Futch of Mulberry, FL during our outing Tuesday morning, June 2, 2009, is proof that the big ones are still very active and "available."

If the rains keep coming throughout the rest of Spring and into the Summer, then this should be a good year for not only bass fishing, but the bluegill fishing will be picking up, beginning with the full moon tomorrow.

Don't forget to follow the law regarding daily catch limits ... and possession limits. These laws have been put into place for a good reason, so please respect them.

On another note, keep a watch out for our new online tackle outlet store, www.moretackle.com, which will go live some time this month. We will be offering great deals on some of your favorite tackle and specials on discontinued items that some of you have been asking for in various fishing forums. If there is a particular lure or other item that you really liked and wished were still available, send us an email at captdick@moretackle.com and let us know. If we can get it we'll let you know personally.

WISE GUIDE SHOPPING

2009-05-14T13:40:00.006-04:00

What should a customer expect when they hire a guide for freshwater fishing?

Well, several things. For starters, they should expect that the guide has a significant amount of experience in his past, in addition to recent experience and current knowledge. They should expect to find all of the equipment/supplies that is advertised to be present and in good working order. They should expect the guide to be prompt and give them the full amount of time on the water. But, in addition, they should expect to be guided in a clean boat fully rigged for the intended type of fishing.

So many times I hear about and see fishing guide's boats that have not been cleaned up after a prior fishing excursion. Each client should be treated equally with the same amount of respect and dignity. This means providing each and every one with the same level of service and professionalism. After all, they are paying for it.

Guides establish their own prices, but often competition drives the prices down in an attempt to out-price one another. In doing so, the client shouldn't have to sacrifice quality of service. Again, it is the guide's choice as to what to charge for his/her services. Therefore, it comes back to that same old saying ... you get what you pay for.

Also, beware of prices that "include bait". Many times that included bait has been purchased ahead and in bulk. This means that you could receive substandard bait that is not the correct size for a particular time of year. Bait generally varies in cost dependent upon the time of the year, ease of harvesting, and size. You can expect to pay anywhere from $8.00 p $15.00/dozen and up. Sizes range from small all the way up to jumbo, which can run as much as $20.00/dozen. Let your guide know whether you are fishing for fun and quantity, or if you are looking for that trophy wall mount.

So, a word to the wise ... shop around, but don't compare just price. As a customer, you should keep in mind what level of quality service you expect, too. Don't be afraid to ask for references from former clients. Your reputable guides will be more than willing to give you that information.

Ardent Assembles All-Star Squad for 2009

2009-05-11T21:05:00.002-04:00

Ardent Assembles All-Star Squad for 2009
Team Ardent members include two Bassmaster Classic champions.

Macon, MO (May 2009) – Ardent, the industry’s only manufacturer of fishing reels and accessories that are Made in the USA, recently unveiled the members of Team Ardent for 2009. The members include a virtual who’s who in the professional fishing industry, including pros in the Bass Elite Series, FLW Tour, WBT Tour and PAA members. Combined, the 2009 Team Ardent team has two Bassmaster Classic Tournament wins, 39 tournament first-place finishes, 227 Top 10 finishes and hosts of six prominent television shows.

“Ardent now has more than 185 anglers on its Pro Staff and there is no greater compliment a manufacturer can receive than to have anglers of this caliber use its reels,” said Mike Brooks, President and CEO of Ardent. “These anglers choose Ardent because of its performance on the water. None of these anglers are paid by Ardent to use our reels.”

Topping the list of Ardent’s Pro Staff program are Bassmaster Classic Champions Denny Brauer and Alton Jones, as well Pete Ponds, Jami Fralick, James Niggemeyer, Fred Roumbais, Mark Tyler, Steve Kennedy, Terry Butcher, Kevin Short, Brent Chapman and Zell Rowland.

“Team Ardent has some of the strongest competitors on the Elite Tour this year,” Brooks said. “These anglers, combined with the performance of Ardent reels, may give us an opportunity to have a Team Ardent member win the Angler of the Year award.”

Team Ardent also includes five notable anglers from the FLW Tour, including Kevin Lasyone, Mike Ellenstein – who also hosts the television program Tri-State Fishing – Wil Jefferies, Mike Reynolds and Kris Anderson.

Other members of Team Ardent include six fishing television show hosts: Larry Woodward and Bob Richardson of Outdoors in the Heartland, Aaron Martin of Bass Edge, Bob Mehsikomer of Simply Fishing, Charlie Moore of Charlie Moore TV and Tony Sellars of Angler’s for Christ; four exclusive PAA Members: Blake Shifflett,
Jimmy Mason, Lance Vick and Kurt Dove; and four WBT fisherwomen: Dianna Clark, Betty Stahl, Angie Everitt and Rose Ellis.

In addition to these professional tour Team Ardent members, there are 130 amateur anglers who have chosen to exclusively utilize Ardent reels in their amateur weekend series events due to their performance. The total number of anglers using Ardent’s reels is an incredible testament to this young company’s product line.

About Ardent

With headquarters in Macon, Mo., Ardent designs and manufactures fishing reels and fishing reel accessories that are Made in the USA. Ardent was founded on the principle of creating high-performance fishing reels that can endure the test of time. In addition, every Ardent reel is hand-assembled and performance-tested prior to shipment and is backed by the industry best three-year warranty. For more information, please visit www.ardentoutdoors.com.

Canadian Contact:
James Turner
306-757-9905
james@innovativeoutdoorsman.com

Ardent Contact:
David Gray
660-395-9200 x 502
dgray@ardentoutdoors.com

Media Contact:
Jason Michael
314-255-2340 x 103
jmichael@blacktwigllc.com

Water Woes

2009-05-04T17:31:00.003-04:00

Can you believe how low the water level is in our lakes again?!?!? I hate to say it, but we need a hurricane ... or at the very least, a few tropical depressions to get some water back into our lakes and rivers. Not just for the fishing, but for the entire ecosystem. But it would certainly help the fishing, or at least help the fisherman get into the lakes. Have you noticed how difficult it is getting your boat launched?

I've come to the realization that I should have purchased a 4-wheel drive when I bought my Suburban. But even some of them are having trouble at the sand ramps. Especially since most boat owners do power loading now, as this causes a build-up of sand out from the ramp. When the water goes down it causes a hump of sand to be in the way of loading and unloading, whereas some trailers even hang up.

The state should take advantage of all this low water and make improvements to the ramps now. They could repair those in need of it, and lengthen all of them ... or at least the most widely used ones. That might not create any new jobs, but it would secure some for a while. If anglers would let their state representatives know this, we might be able to get something done.

Let me know what you think and if you have any suggestions.

Freshwater Fishing Regs

2009-05-04T13:50:00.008-04:00

I thought it would be a good idea to go over the freshwater fishing regulations as they apply to bass, crappie, etc (game fish) in Central & South Florida. Too much of the time we tend to just keep fishing year after year without checking for any changes in the regulations. The one way you DON'T want to find out about a change is from a wildlife officer, because he/she is probably checking you right now &, if you haven't checked recently, then you, very likely, may be violating the rules.

There are numerous regulations regarding freshwater fish broken into several categories: Bag/Possession & Length Limits; Methods of Taking Freshwater Fish; & Fish management Areas.

Here is a list of the freshwater fish regulated:

GAME & NONGAME FISH

Game Fish - black bass, crappie, bluegill, redear sunfish, warmouth, redbreast sunfish, spotted sunfish, flier, mud sunfish, longear sunfish, shadow bass, peacock bass, white bass, striped bass & sunshine bass.

Nongame Fish - all freshwater fish are defined as non-game fish, except grass carp & fish defined as freshwater game fish. Note: Alligator gars require a scientific collector's permit to take.

GENERAL STATEWIDE BAG & LENGTH LIMITS

Special bag & length limits apply to some lakes, rivers & Fish Management Areas. Other fishes considered to be nongame fishes have no bag or possession limits, except as noted in Fish Management Area regulations. (Note: Total length is the maximum length of the fish, with the mouth closed & the tail fin pinched together. Do NOT pull a flexible tape measure along the curve of the fish.)

Possession limit is two days bag limit. It is illegal to transport or possess more than two days bag limit of fish per licensed angler without a commercial license. Exceptions are fish legally acquired from aquaculturists (fish farmers) for use in aquaria, for brood stock, pond stocking or properly marked for the market. Fish may not be filleted nor their head or tail removed until the angler is finished fishing for the day to allow confirmation of measurements. Non-native fishes, except for peacock bass & triploid grass carp, should not be returned to the water, & should be consumed or disposed of properly. No freshwater fish or their eggs may be taken or possessed except as permitted by these rules nor shall anyone wantonly or willfully waste the same.

5 Black bass (largemouth, Suwannee, spotted, & shoal bass, individually or in total), only one of which may be 22 inches or longer in total length.

* In south Florida: only one bass may be 14 inches in total length or longer.

* South & east of the Suwannee River: black bass less than 14 inches in total length must be released immediately.

* In the Suwannee River, areas north & west of the Suwannee River, & in any tributary river, creek or stream of the Suwannee River: black bass less than 12 inches in total length must be released immediately.

50 Panfish including bluegill, redear sunfish (shellcracker), flier, longear sunfish, mud sunfish, shadow bass, spotted sunfish (stumpknockers), warmouth & redbreast sunfish, individually or in total.

25 Black Crappie (speckled perch).

Special Bag & Length Limits (Up to Index)

(Excluding Fish Management Areas)

See Fish Management Area Regulations for bag & length limits for lakes in the Fish Management Area system.

SPECIAL BAG & LENGTH LIMITS

Edward Medard Reservoir, Hillsborough County: Black bass caught from 15 to 24 inches in total length must be released immediately. Black bass bag limit is three.

St. Johns River Water Management Area (Farm 13, including the Stick Marsh), Indian River & Brevard counties: Black bass must be released immediately.

S.N. Knight Tract, Indian River County (locally known as Kenansville Lake): Black bass must be released immediately.

Lake Weohyakapka (Walk-in-Water), Polk County: Black bass from 15 to 24 inches in total length must be released immediately. Black bass bag limit is three, only one of which may be 24 inches in total length or longer.

Lake Okeechobee, including Harney Pond Canal (C-41) north of S.R. 78 to water control structure S-71; Indian Prairie Canal (C-40) north of S.R. 78 to water control structure S-72; all of Taylor Creek & Nubbin Slough; C-38 Canal/ Kissimmee River south of water control structure S-65E to S.R. 78, & C-41-A Canal, from the intersection of the C-38 Canal upstream to the S-84 structure, Okeechobee County: Black bass less than 18 inches in total length must be released immediately; crappie (speckled perch) less than 10 inches in total length must be released immediately.

Lake Trafford (Collier County): Five black bass, each must be 18 inches or greater in total length & only one fish may be 22 inches or greater in total length.

METHODS OF TAKING FRESHWATER FISH

Game fish & nongame fish may be taken with pole & line or rod & reel. There is no limit on the number of rods an angler may use.

Freshwater fish may not be taken by use of any free-floating, unattached device, or by use of firearms, explosives, electricity, spear gun, poison or other chemicals. The taking of fish by underwater swimming or diving is prohibited. It is unlawful to sell, offer for sale or transport out of the state any freshwater game fish unless specifically permitted by the FWC, except that licensed anglers may transport two days' bag limit of legally harvested game fish.

It is illegal to possess any freshwater fish along with gear that cannot legally be used to take freshwater fish, including gear types listed above & below for taking nongame fish or bait. Some exceptions apply.

It is illegal to fillet or remove the head or tail fin of black bass, striped bass, white bass, Sunshine bass (striped bass x white bass hybrid), peacock bass, black crappie & panfish (where special black crappie or panfish size or bag limits are in effect) until after you have completed fishing for the day.

FISH MANAGEMENT AREA REGULATIONS

Tenoroc Fish Management Area, Polk County fishing is allowed only by FWC permit. All anglers must check in & out at the Tenoroc Fish Management Area headquarters & deposit their valid fishing license with the custodian unless otherwise instructed.

Days & hours of operation & quotas shall be as designated by the FWC & posted at area headquarters (currently Friday through Monday only). Quotas will be established for each lake, & fishing is permitted in designated lakes only. Lakes may be closed to public access for management purposes or if access to the lake exposes the public to danger, by posting notice at the Tenoroc check station office. Quotas for open lakes may be temporarily increased to accommodate anglers during times when other lakes are closed due to management construction projects, road repair, unsafe access or special recreational events.

Unless otherwise specified, harvest restrictions are as follows:
Crappie bag limit: 10
Crappie less than 10 inches in total length must be released immediately.
Sunshine bass bag limit: 6
Black bass must be released immediately.
Fish may not be filleted, nor their head or tail fins removed, until the angler has completed fishing for the day.
Cast nets & minnow seines are prohibited. Motor vehicles may be operated only on named roads, designated parking areas, & fishing ramps as designated in the area use brochure. Vehicles may not obstruct designated roads, boat ramps & fire lanes.

Regulations for Tenoroc water bodies are as follows:
Lakes A, Butterfly, C, F, Fish Hook, G, Half-Moon, Horseshoe, Hydrilla, Legs Lost, Lake East, Lost Lake West, Tern, 2, 3, & 4 (primitive launch only on Butterfly, F, Fish Hook, G, Half-Moon, Lost Lake East, Lost Lake West, & Tern):
Gasoline motors may not be used on boats.

Lakes B & 5: Boats are restricted to idle speed-no wake. Black bass greater than 15 inches in total length must be released immediately.
Black bass bag limit: 2

Picnic Lake: Gasoline motors may not be used on boats.
Black bass bag limit: 2
Black bass greater than 15 inches in total length must be released immediately.

Pine (formerly East & West Pasture Lakes) & Derby Lakes: Boats may not be used. Closed to fishing unless authorized by FWC permit for agency-sanctioned events except for anglers who have been certified by the U.S. Veterans Administration, U.S. Social Security Administration, by any branch of the U.S. Armed Services, or by a licensed physician in this state to be totally & permanently disabled & has obtained a permanent license or unless that person presents proof of acceptance as a client for retardation services by the Department of Health. Other than the anglers described above, no person 16 years or older shall fish on Derby Lake unless accompanied by a child under 16 years of age.
Panfish bag limit: 20
Anglers may keep no more than 5 bluegill & redear sunfish 8 inches or longer in total length per day.

Cemetery Lake: Boats may not be used.
Panfish bag limit: 20
Anglers may keep no more than 5 bluegill & redear sunfish 8 inches or longer in total length per day.

Lake Crago: Largemouth bass, crappie & sunshine bass: statewide size & bag limits apply. Wire traps may be used for nongame fish. Trotlines may be used from sunset until 9 a.m. Boats are restricted to idle speed-no wake.

Freedom Lake Park, Pinellas County: open to fishing. Cast nets or minnow seines are prohibited. Black bass must be released immediately.
Panfish bag limit: 20
Swimming & taking of fish or wildlife with firearms or possession of alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

Dover District Park Lake, Hillsborough County: open to fishing. Cast nets or minnow seines are prohibited. Black bass must be released immediately.
Panfish bag limit: 20
Swimming & possession of firearms or alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

Steven J. Wortham Park Lake, Hillsborough County: open to fishing. Cast nets or minnow seines are prohibited. Black bass must be released immediately.
Panfish bag limit: 20
Swimming & taking of fish or wildlife with firearms or possession of alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

Al Lopez Park Lake, Hillsborough County: open to fishing. Cast nets or minnow seines are prohibited. Black bass must be released immediately.
Panfish bag limit: 20
Swimming & taking of fish or wildlife with firearms are prohibited.

Largo Central Park Nature Preserve, Pinellas County: open to fishing. Cast nets & minnow seines are prohibited. No person shall kill or possess any black bass. No person shall take in any one (1) day more than twenty (20) panfish, in the aggregate. No person shall kill or possess more than ten (10) crappie. No person shall kill or possess any crappie less than ten inches (10") in total length. Swimming & taking of fish or wildlife with firearms & possession of alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

Walsingham Park Lake, Pinellas County: open to fishing. Cast nets or minnow seines are prohibited. Black bass must be released immediately. Swimming & taking of fish or wildlife with firearms & possession of alcoholic beverages are prohibited. Gasoline motors may not be used on boats.
Panfish bag limit: 20
Crappie less than 10 inches in total length must be released immediately.
Sunshine bass bag limit: 4
Sunshine bass less than 10 inches in total length must be released immediately.
Crappie bag limit: 10

Middle Lake, Pasco County: open to fishing. Watercraft shall be operated at idle speed only. Swimming, taking of fish or wildlife with firearms, & camping or open fires at the boat launch site are prohibited.
Panfish bag limit: 20
Bluegill & redear sunfish less than 8 inches in total length must be released immediately.
Crappie bag limit: 10
Crappie less than 10 inches in total length must be released immediately.

Lake Istokpoga, Highlands County: open to fishing. Black bass 15 inches or more in total length & less than 24 inches must be released immediately.
Black bass bag limit: 3
Only 1 black bass may be 24 inches or greater in total length.

Mosaic Fish Management Area (formerly Cargill Fort Meade Mine), Polk & Hardee counties: open to fishing.
Fishing is allowed only by daily permit issued by the FWC. All anglers must check in & out at the Cargill Fort Meade Mine creel station, the designated entry point, unless otherwise instructed. Days & hours of operation & quotas shall be as designated by the FWC & posted at the Cargill Fort Meade Mine creel station. Fishing is permitted in designated lakes only. All other lakes & restricted areas, so posted, are closed to public fishing. Any lake may be temporarily closed to public access for management purposes, or in the event that access to the lake exposes the public to danger, by posting notice at the creel station. Unless otherwise specified, harvest restrictions are as follows:
Black bass must be released immediately.
Sunshine bass bag limit: 6
Crappie bag limit: 10
Crappie less than 10 inches in total length must be released immediately. Fish may not be filleted, nor their heads or tail fins removed, until the angler has checked out at the Cargill creel station. Disposal of fish remains is prohibited.
Taking of fish with guns is prohibited. Motor vehicles may be operated only on designated roads, parking areas & boat ramps. Vehicles may not obstruct designated roads, boat ramps & fire lanes. Swimming & float tubes are prohibited.
Rough fish may be removed from designated lakes by cast nets & minnow seines by permission of the landowner. Outboard motors more than 10 h.p. may not be used. Regulations for individual water bodies are as follows.

Haul Road Pit:
Black bass longer than 15 inches in total length must be released immediately.
Black bass bag limit: 2
Long Pond (LP2 West):
No boats permitted.

Hardee County Park, Hardee County: open to fishing. All anglers shall enter at the Park main entrance, the designated entry point, unless otherwise instructed. Angling from a boat is allowed by entry pass issued by Hardee County. Angling from shore does not require an entry pass unless otherwise posted at the Park main entrance.
Days & hours of operation & quotas for freshwater fishing are posted at the Park main entrance. Fishing is permitted in designated lakes only. Any lake may be closed to public access by Hardee County for management purposes, or in the event that access to the lake exposes the public to danger, by posting notice at the Park main entrance.
Black bass must be released immediately.
Sunshine bass bag limit: 6
Panfish bag limit: 20
Crappie bag limit: 10
Crappie less than 10 inches in total length must be released immediately. Fish may not be filleted, nor their head or tail fin removed, until the angler has left the Park. Disposal of fish remains within Hardee County Park is prohibited.
Taking of fish with guns is prohibited. Motor vehicles may be operated only on designated roads, parking areas, & boat ramps. Vehicles may not obstruct designated roads, boat ramps & fire lanes. Swimming & float tubes are prohibited.
Watercraft are restricted to idle speed-no wake.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION GO TO THE FLORIDA FISH & WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION

What a Croc!

2009-03-24T17:38:00.009-04:00

Two Crocodiles were sitting at the side of the swamp near the lake. The smaller one turned to the bigger one and said, "I can't understand how you can be so much bigger than me. We're the same age; we were the same size as kids. I just don't get it."

"Well," said the big Croc, "what have you been eating?" "Politicians, same as you," replied the small Croc. "Hmm. Well, where do you catch them?" "Down the other side of the swamp near the parking lot by the Capitol." "Same here. Hmm. How do you catch them?" "Well, I crawl up under one of their Lexus cars and wait for one to unlock the car door. Then I jump out, grab them by the leg, shake the shit out of them and eat 'em!"

"Ah!" says the big Crocodile, "I think I see your problem. You're not getting any real nourishment. See, by the time you finish shaking the shit out of a Politician, there's nothing left but an asshole and a briefcase!

Bass Bits & Bites

2009-03-23T20:39:00.002-04:00

Have you ever noticed how bass seem to hit lures or bait different ways at different times? And that they act differently after taking the bait/lure? It's something that tends to slip my mind after catching bass the same way for awhile until, all of a sudden, they stop reacting the same way.

Then it dawns on me again ... it's either a change in season (their season, that is), a change in the weather, a change in the water. These are the usual things that will affect how the bass feed. But not how the bass strike. The way a bass strikes is determined upon why it strikes. Most people think that a bass strikes because it is hungry. That's one reason ... and usually the most aggressive reason. That is why it is best to fish at the times designated by the moon phases, since that is what triggers all of nature to feed.

But what about the other times. Why would bass strike if they are not hungry, or it is not their natural time to feed? There are numerous other reasons that cause bass to strike a lure or a bait. One is territorial. The bass is an extremely territorial fish, and it will strike at anything that enters its domain. Not necessarily to eat it, just to either kill it or deter it from sticking around.

Another is preparation. During the mating season, the bass, both male and female, will gorge themselves to stock up for the mating ritual, during which neither one feeds. First, the male prepares the bed. Then the female moves in and lays her eggs.

Thereafter, is replenishment. Once she is done laying her eggs she leaves and goes back to feeding. The male fertilizes the eggs and then stays to protect them from predators. During this protection phase, the male doesn't eat ... he just either kills the predators or spits them back out away from the nest. He goes so long without eating that once the fry hatch, he will begin foraging on the young.

During the Fall as the waters cool down, bass tend to go on feeding frenzies, striking anything that moves in the water. They will gorge until they regurgitate, and then feed some more. This is a particularly exciting time to fish, especially if you come upon an entire school of bass in a feeding frenzy. It can look as if the entire area of water has come to a rolling boil.

Yet another reason is predatorial instinct. If something comes by that is within the "strike zone," a bass just can't help him or her self from striking at it, whether hungry or not.

And another is competition. If one bass strikes at a lure, another one (sometimes larger), tries to take it away. Who knows ... maybe it's sibling rivalry! That is why you may sometimes catch two bass at the same time if your lure has more than one hook on it, such as a treble hook.

As you can see, there are numerous reasons, not all mentioned here, why a bass will strike. And each of those reasons will cause the bass to follow through differently after the strike. For instance, if a bass is just protecting the nest then they will most likely just pick up the intrusion, move it a ways off, and then spit it out. Many times, the bass will be holding the lure/bait in such a manner that even if you set the hook at the optimal moment, you still won't catch it because the hook is not in its mouth. A bass only turns a lure head first into its throat if it intends to swallow it. Otherwise, they will just hold it sideways or endwise in its mouth until killing or disposing of it.

This is one reason why people flock to Florida in the late Winter and early Spring. That is the time when the Florida Black Bass is spawning on both the full moon and the new moon. So just before and after are great times to find them feeding like crazy, which makes it easier to find those trophy-size females. Plus, it's a great excuse to get out of the cold of up North.

Look down the right side of my blog and you will see some of those trophies that have been caught this season ... and all returned back so they can complete their spawning ritual. Because remember ... big fish breed big fish.

CPR = Catch, Photograph, Release

Very Fishy Quotes

2009-03-04T14:49:00.002-05:00

I came across some neat quotes regarding kids and fishing, and I wanted to share them with you.

"If a child is to keep alive his inborn sense of wonder, he needs the companionship of at least one adult who can share it, rediscovering with him/her the joy, excitement and mystery of the world we live in." - Rachel Carson

"If we want children to flourish, to become truly empowered, then let us allow them to love the earth before we ask them to save it.” David Sobel, Beyond Ecophobia

If anyone comes across any quotes regarding fishing, please email them to me at captdick@bassfishingguide.com. I like to add them to my website, http://www.bassfishingguide.com/. Thanks a bunch!

Angler Survey

2009-03-03T16:07:00.003-05:00

Don't Sunset Our Industry

Angler Survey is conducting surveys about freshwater and saltwater buying and fishing habits. This is a good opportunity for fishermen and women to make an impact, so go to www.anglersurvey.com/signup and make yourself heard.

Results of this survey will be used by fishery agencies and sportsman's groups to protect and enhance fishing opportunities. Also, participation in this survey will help the industry develop new products and improve services. Your name, email address, or individual responses will NEVER be released to anyone for any purpose.

Each month you complete the survey, you will be entered in the monthly drawing for one of five $100 gift certificates to the sporting good retailer of your choice and your name will be automatically entered into the drawing. Only one entry per month is permitted.

So make this website one of your favorites and visit monthly.

Did You Know?

2009-03-03T15:51:00.005-05:00

Did you know ... that one in every 10 dollars spent in the United States on fishing is spent in Florida?

Did you know ... that even more impressive is the fact that 43 percent of anglers in the United States call the southeast region home?

Did you know ... that overall, nearly $20 billion in fishing retail sales are realized annually in the southeastern market?

Did you know ... that more than half of the United States sportfishing dollars are spent east of the Mississippi River?

Did you know ... that the sportfishing industry generates more state revenue than the citrus and cattle industries combined?

Did you know ... 93 percent of Americans support legal recreational fishing?

Did you know ... signed in 1995, Presidential Executive Order 12962 directs federal agencies to promote and protect sportfishing opportunities?

Did you know ... there are 13 million saltwater anglers in the United States?

Did you know ... Florida, California and Texas are the most popular saltwater fishing states?

Did you know ... saltwater anglers spend over $20 BILLION annually on their sport?

Did you know ... commercial fishing operations are responsible for 97 percent of all marine fish landed; recreational anglers land only 3 percent?

Did you know ... that according to the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), only 8 percent of marine fish stocks are actively being overfished. Most other species are on the road to recovery?

Did you know ... that many environmental groups are pushing to restrict public access in anywhere from 5-20 percent of all ocean areas?

Just a few tidbits of information!

Valentine's Day all February long

2009-03-01T14:16:00.012-05:00

This has been one sweetheart of a month! Although I had the biggest scare of my guiding career a couple of days ago.

First, the bad part - I had a long-time customer (9 years) and her Dad out fishing for their first of three days scheduled. There was nothing unusual or different about the day, and there had not been any fronts recently to have affected the fish. It should have just been another average February day of fishing. Not so. I don't like to brag (well, I do but it just sounded good) but it is extremely rare for me to go fishing and not catch some fish ... or at least have several bites, even if we don't get them into the boat. But this day was going to be one for the record books! Now first you must know that this customer comes almost every year; she always books 3 days; she usually has just one off day; she always catches fish ... usually big ones. We got on the water around 7am and fished all day. When I say all day I mean until it was dark:30! We did not boat a fish ... in fact, we only had one bite ... ONE BITE!!!!! I was devastated, but she seemed to just take it in stride with teasing me all day. "Dick, where's the fish???" she would say.

I thought I would never get to sleep that night, and then I woke up at 1:30am and couldn't get back to sleep. I finally came to the conclusion that this was God's way of keeping me humble. So that morning I had them meet me earlier - at 6am and we went to a different location where I had caught fish a couple of weeks ago. It was a bit of a drive, hopefully it would be worth it.

Well, it was. I no longer got two shiners in the water and started to hook up another one when we heard a splash that sounded like someone had thrown the port-a-potty overboard! That was the beginning of a "chamber of commerce" day. She and her Dad missed quite a few fish, but they boated a lot of them, too. No fish that day was less than 4 pounds, I kid you not. I had redeemed myself!!!

The next, and last, day we went to the same location and it was an instant replay of the day before. Big fish ... BIG FISH! Again, nothing smaller than around 4 pounds. Like the old saying goes ... a picture is worth a thousand words, so I'll shut up and let the pictures below speak for themselves.

Other than that one day, fishing this February has been like these pictures all month. Now that this "Sweetheart" month is over hopefully my wife's Irish eyes will be smiling on me for the month of March because about half of all the days are booked already.

I hope the rest of you have had as good a month as I have, minus the one humbling day. Although, almost every fisherman and woman that I know needs to be humbled once in a while, if for no other reason than to keep the fish tales within reason. I know mine are now ... and I try to always back them up with pictures!

?????Fly Fish Tournament?????

2009-02-18T11:41:00.005-05:00

Every person who has ever done much fishing has heard stories about a place where..."the fishing is so good.....the fish jump right into the boat."It's true. take a look.

It's too bad that bass don't do this!!!

February Florida Fishing

2009-02-09T11:52:00.010-05:00

I really feel sorry for the tournament fishermen and women at this time of the year. Have you ever noticed how a cold front always comes through the state of Florida just prior to the weekend, causing the temperatures to drop severely and a couple "bluebird" days to appear, usually on Saturday and Sunday? Originally I thought it was just because my wife was fishing tournaments and it was just her bad luck. She hasn't fished a tournament in almost 20 years, but the fronts still keep coming with the same pattern, especially during the month of February.

I can still remember one year when she was fishing a tournament on Lake Okeechobee, I think with Bass'n Gal, and the schedule included Valentine's Day. Her practice went great, in fact, better than ever before on Lake Okeechobee. She had quality fish located about five places on the south, southwest, and southeast sides of the lake, which was perfect since they were fishing out of Clewiston.

She was going as a non-boater and drew Kathy Magers the first day and she won the toss for fishing her spots first. They went to the Monkey Box and she boated a 5lber on her first cast. She was primed and ready to really do good in the tournament. Then, shortly after that the winds started to blow ... and blow ... and blow. They couldn't hold the boat in the spot where they wanted to fish because the winds were blowing so hard that it was about to swamp them.

There was no place out on the lake where you could maintain a location to fish, so they had to go to the rim ditch. My wife didn't pre-fish the rim canal, so she didn't have any particular preferences of where to fish; and she was totally dejected that she couldn't fish the lake. I don't think I've ever seen her so depressed about fishing. She tried to prepare for that tournament harder than she ever had before ... just to loose it to the weather and Mother Nature. The winds were so strong (hurricane force) that several ladies found their boats aground because the water was literally blown out from under them. Others that were trying to fish the rocks in the ditch, found themselves ON the rocks!

Well, that's what did her in on fishing tournaments. She said that her Father always told her that fishing is what he did to relax away from his job. Once she realized that her tournament fishing had become a "J-O-B" to her, then she realized it was time to quit. Now she enjoys going out fun fishing with me and helping me with my guide business, Southern Outdoorsman Guide Service, like finding new locations to take my clients, some of which come on the weekends and, since we have had some severe fronts in January and now February, that is what made me think of the tournament fisherman and women. She also designed and maintains my website, http://www.bassfishingguide.com/ and runs two businesses of her own, one with Market America and a secretarial service.

So, those of you who are fishing tournaments and trying to get through another season of cold fronts ... have heart! It is not because you "have a dark cloud hanging over you" or "broke a mirror to give you 7 years bad luck" or "a black cat crossed your path" or whatever you might think brought you bad luck. It's just Mother Natures way of taking care of her own while they are trying to make babies. After all, if it were your children, you would protect them, too ... right? Hang in there, Spring is right around the corner and so is good tournament fishing weather.

Good Luck!

Kids Gone Fishin'

2009-01-30T16:39:00.006-05:00

I know I've talked about this once already, but it needs to be talked about more and more. If it was, then maybe our kids wouldn't be getting into so much trouble, wouldn't be sitting in front of the computer or TV so much (you can tell it's hard to get me to), and wouldn't be trying out the wrong things at too early of an age.

Kids have almost forgotten what it's like to be a kid ... either that or it has changed drastically, for the worse. I have found that since we added a pontoon boat to our choice for guiding, that more and more parents are bringing their kids with them on the part of their vacation that they have set aside for fishing. And the kids are learning about something that they never knew they had an interest in ... until now.

On the side are just a few pictures of the kids that have been fishing with me. Just look at their faces. They're having fun and there's not a TV, computer, ipod, cellphone, or gamer anywhere in the picture. Just something that came from nature that they are proud to have encountered.

There are numerous sites out there, including ours, that either include kids fishing or are dedicated to kids fishing. Take the time to show your kids or grandkids what they're missing.

Kid's Fishing Tips; Gettings Kids Started Fishing; Information for Kids; Fishing Fun; Kids Fishing Clinics; Fishing For Kids; Kids Fishing Directory; Bass Fishing 4 Kids; Why Kids Need Fishing

These are just a few of the sites with information and/or pictures about kids and all types of fishing. Of course, we are partial to largemouth bass fishing, but that's only because it's the most popular of all the sport fishing ... and that's what we do best.

Just a tip ... if you're having any trouble with "generation gap" in regards to either your kids or grandkids, take them fishing and watch the gap shrink right before your eyes. In the eyes of the bass, you're all God's children!

Pike caught in Canada ... or was it?

2009-01-30T12:55:00.004-05:00

Below is a copy of an email I received. But when I googled it, I came up with a site that has some debating the validity of the location. Let us know if anyone knows for sure where this monster pike was caught.

This is the new record in Canada. He caught it on Rainy Lake. Check this thing out. The last picture is unbelievable! This guy (in the photos below), was fishing and caught a 36" Pike - as he was reeling it in, a 56" Pike tried to eat it!!!!! He brought them both in on the same net. Awesome catch on a Lake in Canada - 55 lbs- 56 inches.

For real fish stories and testimonials, go to my Fishy Stories page in my website; or for 10 years worth of guiding pictures go to my Bass Braggin' page.

Blog Problems

2009-01-30T11:37:00.002-05:00

Sorry about not being able to load my blog for a few days. I was having trouble with it and couldn't figure out what was causing it, so I just deleted most of what I had on the side. Will start rebuilding it, but checking this time after each addition. If anyone else has had this trouble and knows exactly what caused it, please let me know. I got so frustrated deleting one thing at a time and then previewing it just to see it do the same thing that I went ahead and deleted almost everything. In case you didn't catch what it was doing, the entire sidebar kept trying to load over and over again. Eventually it would completely lock up the browser. All is okay for now.

Website Makeover

2009-01-26T18:52:00.004-05:00

Well, I'm sure many of you that have been on our site before have thought that this is "about time." We have finally done almost a complete makeover of our website. It's been a long time coming, but my wife has been very busy on a lot of other things. She's still not done tweaking it yet but, for the most part, it is done.

It has grown from a measley 10 pages to now over 30! We have pictures spanning the last 10 years and have created separate picture pages for the corporate groups. The kids already had their own page, but it is larger now.

If anybody has any suggestions for the website, please let us know so Joyce can take your suggestions into consideration and make whatever changes she decides on. I pretty much let her handle all of that, seeing as I wouldn't have the slightest idea how to make changes to it anyway.

The fishing is picking up nicely, and the bass are cooperating. The really huge trophies are still holding out for a little later in the season, but seven to nines are becoming fairly common. Some of the bass have started bedding, although this last cold front moved them off for a few days. Of course, wild shiners are still the favorite meal, but domestics run a close second.

Don't forget to use CPR - Catch, Photograph, Release - to help preserve larger catches. It would be a shame to coax our kids into the sport of fishing and their to be nothing for them to catch. Of course, it doesn't hurt to eat a few from time to time. Just remember that the smaller ones make the better meal; and big fish breed big fish. So, if the filets won't fit into an 10-inch skillet you shouldn't be cooking it!

Travel Blogger

2009-01-21T20:58:00.001-05:00

Additional Authors

2009-01-21T14:56:00.003-05:00

If any of you would like to become an additional author for this blog, please send me an email with your request and tell me a little about yourself and why you would like to become an author.

The more the merrier ... because I know every fisherman has an opinion, and when you're not out fishing, or watching fishing on TV, or preparing your boat or tackle for fishing, you're talking about fishing to anyone that will listen. So feel free to jump in here because the web provides plenty of listeners (or readers, that is).

We can set up your own personal logo to attach to your blog articles to differentiate between the authors. So, let me know if your interested.

Apology

2009-01-21T14:24:00.003-05:00

I want to apologize to all of you bloggers out there that have been faithfully checking in on my blog. It's really no excuse, but I have been working practically every waking hour, that I haven't been fishing, on my website. I have increased its size from 10 pages to 34 and have increased the rankings to showing up within the first two pages of Google, Yahoo, and MSN searches for my keywords/phrases. I'm still working on it (you're really never done), but I've backed off on how many hours I am putting toward it. I know I have no right to ask, but if you could see your way to it, I would really appreciate the hits ... and votes for the links down the right side of the home page or on the links page.

Enough about that. How's the fishing you ask? Well, it wasn't too bad until we had this blizzard of a cold front move through. Now it's even too cold to go out and work on the boats in the garage, much less get in one and go fishing!!! The bass were starting to go on the bed, but this 30 degree weather will push them right back off for awhile, unless we get a really strong warming trend.

As things do warm up, I am anticipating a fairly good season this year, since most of the lakes are still fairly full. Although, we could still use some rain to top them off a bit. Now that all of the holiday hoopla is over with we can get down to business ... that is the business of fishing.

By the way, have any of you tried Doug Hannon's new fishing reel yet? It looks like he's got another winner of an invention. You can find some info about it on my site, along with the links to his site. Doug has received a lot of awards for this one. I think he has outdone himself this time. Congrats, Doug!!! Also, check out his swimming snake, if you haven't done so already. It's a killer of a lure, especially for those of you who LOVE topwater action.

I just heard a joke that I don't get (I don't think), so if you get it, let me know: Two gold fish were in a tank, one says to the other one "Do you know how to drive this thing?" Sorry, but I just don't get it.

Well, like I said, I am back now and will be posting about once a week. If anyone has any suggestions or things they would like me to add to the blog, speak up now or forever hold your peace ... just kidding.

Sleeper

2008-09-07T12:16:00.004-04:00

Sorry for being gone for so long, but I really didn't have much to write about. Guess you could say that I was hibernating. The last fishing season (if you could call it that) was extremely slow. I don't blame anglers for not coming south this past winter season to fish. The lakes were all so low that it put a hurtin' on fishing ... and some were so low that you couldn't even launch your boat.

But thanks to Fay, things are looking up. Most of the lakes in Central Florida have come up several feet and the fish are biting for joy! Although we don't get many customers during the hot summer months, there have been a few that have championed the heat for the thrill of victory over Mother Nature.

You would think this fellow would look a little happier with a catch like this! Oh well, I guess it takes a little more to get some anglers to crack a smile ... better luck next time!

Check out some smiling fishermen on our Bass Braggin' page in our website.

2008-09-07T12:10:00.003-04:00

In a desert war zone, a fishermen's club springs up
By 8 in the morning it was hot, and Chief Warrant Officer Scott Henry, the custodian of the Baghdad Angler's Club and School of Fly Fishing, sat in the shadow of a palace pillar. More palaces were all around the lake, and directly across from him ...
read more

This guy is the Freaking Funniest Guy Ever

2007-01-16T13:19:00.001-05:00


LOL

Fishy Wife

2006-07-04T19:13:00.001-04:00

One morning the husband returns after several hours of fishing and decides to take a nap. Although not familiar with the lake, the wife decides to take the boat out. She motors out a short distance, anchors, and reads her book.

Along comes a Game Warden in his boat. He pulls up alongside the woman and says, "Good morning, Ma'am. What are you doing?" "Reading a book," she replies, (thinking, "Isn't that obvious?")"You're in a Restricted Fishing Area," he informs her. "I'm sorry, officer, but I'm not fishing. I'm reading." "Yes, but you have all the equipment. For all I know you could start at any moment. I'll have to take you in and write you up."" If you do that, I'll have to charge you with sexual assault," says the woman. "But I haven't even touched you," says the game warden. "That's true, but you have all the equipment. For all I know you could start at any moment." "Have a nice day ma'am," and he left.

MORAL: Never argue with a woman who reads. It's likely she can also think.

Forty-Eleven Questions

2006-06-15T16:06:00.001-04:00

If there is anything you've ever had a question about ... and have not been able to get an answer ... here is the website for you. Check it out - it is quite interesting.

Also, if you have time, check out my site, www.bassfishingguide.com. We try to offer something to do outdoors for everyone either living in Florida or coming for a visit.

A Louisiana Fishin' Tale

2006-05-15T18:12:00.001-04:00

Boudreaux been fish'n down by de bayou all day and he done run outa night crawlers. He be bout ruddy to leave when he seen a snake wif a big frog in his mouf. He knowed dat dem big bass fish like dem frogs, so he decided to steal dat froggie.

Dat snake, he be a cotton mouf water moccasin, so he had to be real careful or he'd git bit. He snuk up behin' dat snake and grabbed him roun de haid. Dat ole snake din't lak dat one bit. He squirmed and wrap hisself roun' Boudreaux's arm try'n to git hisself free. But Boudreaux, he had a real good grip on his haid, yeh.

Well, Boudreaux pried his mouf open and got de frog and puts in in his bait can. Now, Boudreaux knows dat he cain't let go dat snake or he's gonna bite him good, but he had a plan. He reach into de back pocket of his bibs and pulls out a pint a moonshine likker. He pour some drops into de snake's mouf. Well, dat snake's eyeballs kinda roll back in his haid and his body go limp. Wit dat, Boudraux toss dat snake into de bayou. Den he goes back to fishin'.

A while later Boudreaux dun feel sumpin' tappin' on his barefoot toe. He slowly look down and dare wuz dat water moccasin wif two more frogs.

Fishin' Kids

2006-04-29T17:30:00.001-04:00

Kids love to fish ... but first you have to ask them, show them, and then teach them.

It's something that gets them outdoors into the fresh air;
It's something to get them out from in front of the computer;
It's something that teaches them about conservation and the environment;
It's something that every child can equally compete in;
It's something for the family to do together;
It's something different to do on your next vacation;
It's something less expensive than most theme parks;
It's something that they'll remember for a lifetime;
It's something that they'll teach their children.

Just look at the faces on some of these kids we've had out fishing and try to tell me that they're not having fun!

You know the old saying ... give a man a fish and he'll eat for a day ... teach a man to fish and he'll eat for a lifetime.

Well, the same goes for our kids ... and most kids that really get involved with fishing DON'T get involved with drugs, are less likely to get in trouble with the law, and generally do better in school. Try to do your part as a parent, grandparent, big brother, big sister, or even just a friend to get today's kids involved in fishing.

It's probably one of the least expensive hobbies to get started. All you need is a rod, reel, lure ... add water with fish in it and you've got a perfect recipe for FUN!

You never know ...

you might just find out that you DO have something in common with your kids

... a love for FISHING!!!

WORLD RECORD BROKEN ! ! !

2006-03-22T16:59:00.001-05:00

Well, for all you avid bass fishermen out there, especially the ones in Florida, you have a new goal to set for yourselves. The world record for largemouth bass was just broken yesterday in (where else?) California. That is ... if they count it!

Check out this article from the San Diego Union-Tribune and then let us know whether you think it should be counted or not.

COUNT IT OR DON'T COUNT IT!

"DEAL OR NO DEAL"

International Game Fish Association to take the 25-pound, 1-ounce bass under review
By Ed Zieralski
UNION-TRIBUNE STAFF WRITER
11:00 a.m.
March 21, 2006

SAN DIEGO – An official for the International Game Fish Association said today that the 25-pound, 1-ounce bass caught and released by Mac Weakley of Carlsbad at Dixon Lake Monday will get consideration as a world record.
Jason Schratwieser, conservation director for the association, commended Weakley and his crew of Mike Winn and Jed Dickerson for releasing the big bass, which, if certified as a record, will shatter the present mark of 22 pounds, 4 ounces, the weight of a fish caught by George W. Perry in 1932 at Montgomery Lake in Georgia.
Weakley foul-hooked the largemouth bass, with the hook lodged on the fish's left side, just below its dorsal fin.
California Department of Fish and Game regulations state that a fish, to be legally caught, must be hooked in the mouth while it tries to take a bait, lure or fly. The game fish association states, for its record-consideration process, that a catch will be disqualified if a fish is “intentionally” foul-hooked. Weakley said he wasn't intentionally trying to foul-hook or snag the bass, and three witnesses to the catch confirmed that.
“We don't have any information on the fish right now, so we don't have any comment,” Schratwieser said. “But if it is submitted it's something we'll discuss and look at. Absolutely. One thing we never want to do is penalize a recreational angler for releasing a fish. I commend the guy for releasing such a big, spawning female because she'll contribute a lot to that lake.
“A big female like that will produce more eggs, but more importantly, more quality eggs. There may be a genetic component that she passes on to subsequent generations of larger, healthier fish.” Schratwieser added that the fact Weakley didn't take measurements of the fish – length and girth, an integral part of the IGFA's application process – might not matter if the photos and video they took substantiate the size of the bass.
“We like to have the measurements for several reasons,” Schratwieser said. “One is for scientific purposes, so we can get a better understanding of the size of the species. Measurements also help confirm the dimensions of the fish if the pictures are lacking in the application.”
Schratwieser said it will take a month or more to confirm the fish as an all-tackle world record.
Weakley said Monday that he will apply for the record. He defended his decision not to take measurements.
“I didn't want to lay it (the bass) on the dock and have it stressed more than it was,” Weakley said. “People can take it for what it's worth. That's just how it is.”
Added Dickerson: “Whatever happens, we know it's the world record. Unless that one gets caught again, no one will ever see another bass that big.”
Meantime, Dixon Lake was quiet Wednesday morning considering that the world-record bass still swims there.
“It rained all night and there's no one here,” said Jim Dayberry, supervisor of rangers at Dixon. “I would expect that later today and into the weekend it's going to go crazy here.”
Dayberry also explained how Weakley, Winn and Dickerson had early access to the lake Monday He said the anglers bought a camping permit that allowed them to bypass the line of cars that had to wait until the lake opened at 6 a.m. Weakley, Winn and Dickerson were able to buy their lake permits and rental boat before the anglers in the vehicle line reached the lake.
“We allow campers to come in anytime,” Dayberry said. “That's why we have a ranger here 24/7. If not, we'd have this lake poached every night. But campers come to the gate and wait in the parking lot for the ranger to come up and sell them a spot.”
The fact Weakley and his crew got in early that way didn't sit well with some anglers, but it was legal.
“When the ranger opened the gate, we were the first ones in, so we were stoked,” said Rancho Bernardo's Steve Barnett, who was there with his younger brother, Dan, trying to get in some fishing before school. “Dan knew a guy was fishing for that fish the day before and that there was a 20-pounder out there. We were going to try and catch it. I wanted to get Dan a junior record before he turns 16. But when we got to the lake we looked out and (Weakley, Winn and Dickerson) were already on the lake. So we just decided to sit there and watch them. At least we saw the world record caught.”
Dayberry said he respected the way Weakley, Winn and Dickerson handled the bass after it was caught.
“They saw how much Jed's 21-pounder (the 21 pound, 11 ounce fish caught in 2003 and also believed to be the same bass) was stressed by being out of the water so long,” Dayberry said. “They knew keeping it out of the water would have been the kiss of death for that big bass. They wanted to do minimal damage. And there was a lot to be said about their honesty. These are stand-up guys we've known since they were kids. They have a lot of heart.
“Sure, we'd love to post it as the world record right now, say it's done and in the record book. There could be a 24½ -pounder caught at Casitas or Castaic today, but
everyone will know there's a bigger one swimming in Dixon.
“We know because we saw it.”

Please leave a comment on this blog or, if you are interested in coming to Florida in search of your trophy largemouth bass, you can e-mail me at CaptDick@bassfishingguide.com or checkout my website.

Fall Fishing in Florida

2005-09-22T18:29:00.001-04:00

Who said you have to wait until the winter to catch big fish in Florida?!?!?!? On Friday September 16, 2005 (just a few days before the beginning of Fall) our 3 boat party were STROKIN' the bass! My customer's second bass of the day weighed in at 9 lbs 12 oz. The other two boats were catching bass between 7-9 lbs, also.

"Has it started to cool off already?" you say? ! NO - it's still hotter than blazes and no one can stand to stay out on the water much later than 10:30-11:00!

"Has the hydrilla grown back in Lake Walk-in-Water?" you say? NO - the bottom is almost as bare as it was last year after the triple hurricanes!

"Are the bass starting to school up?" you say? YES - but mostly smaller bass, around 2-4 lbs, are schooling up and chasing shad pods!

"Has the big bass population returned to Lake Walk-in-Water?" you say? YES - thanks to the 3 fish limit with a slot regulation!

"So what's the big secret to catching these big bass in Lake Walk-in-Water since the hurricanes cleared out all of their hiding places?" you say? Well, it's no big secret - you just have to know how to catch big bass on this lake the same way it was done 15 years ago when the lake was so pristine you could see the bottom with the naked eye. Once the lake filled up with grass, it didn't take much "know-how" to find bass on the lake. All you had to do was drift across it with shiners and, with all of the grass holes, you were bound to come upon some fish sooner or later. Now it is not such easy pickin's.

You need to know the lake, the contours, the drop-offs, and the patterns the bass tend to follow. These are things you only come to know after fishing a lake for years and years, adapting to its seasonal and yearly changes. Mother Nature has a way of taking care of her own, and that's just what she did when she blew those hurricanes through here and cleaned out the best bass fishing lake in Florida!

Take a look at the picture of the bass caught last week, take a good look. She is healthy! Just like all the rest of the bass we caught that day. No ... This lake hasn't lost its punch ... Its just created a bigger and better challenge to weed out the real fishing guides that know how to find fish from the drifters that took advantage of this lake for so many years. Now it will really have a chance to come back and be as good as it once was. Back to the "good ole days" when it wasn't so rare to catch a 10 lb hawg and, who knows --- it just may produce Florida's next record big bass!

If you want to come fish with me and try to catch a trophy largemouth bass, email me at captdick@bassfishingguide.com or checkout my website.

Something Fishy

2005-09-22T17:24:00.003-04:00

Fishticker News... Just click on a headline

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Add a ticker to your site

Bassboat vs. Pontoon Boat

2005-06-06T21:54:00.001-04:00

In the last decade or so of fishing, the “bassboat” reigned as king of the waters. It was the only way to appear that you knew what you were doing, especially when it came to bass fishing. It is understandably the best type of boat for tournaments because a bassboat can handle a monstrous motor that will provide you with more fishing time and less time getting to and from that prime fishing spot.

In recent years, there has been competition among the boat industry to come up with the ultimate bassboat. One with enough storage room to store every type of lure necessary to mankind; one with enough deck room to be able to fish from any angle without two people being crowded on any one location of the boat; one that will keep the largest bass known to man alive all day in a well no bigger than she is; one to accommodate the largest high-powered outboard motor on the market so you will get to that “secret” fishing spot before anyone else does; one with enough bells and whistles on it that it requires a Master’s degree in electronics; one with seats that will make you think you are riding in s sports car; one with such a unique design and color scheme that it demands attention and respect.

That’s all fine, well and good so long as you’re a die-hard tournament fisherperson determined to eventually become the next “Bill Dance” or “Roland Martin.” But in the real world, most people are just looking to have a relaxing day on the water, catch a few rays, catch a few fish, and catch some quality time with their family. And for those folks that either don’t have enough spare time to devote to fishing enough to justify owning their own boat, or for the ones that have acquired a new-found interest in the sport, there are numerous fishing guide businesses all over the country offering their expertise, boat, use of tackle and other provisions; all for a modest fee, of course.

Within that same decade the pontoon boat got a reputation for being the boat used strictly for panfishing, or having a party on the water, or just lazily cruising around. It just makes good sense – in tournament fishing you’re only allowed to have one rod with a lure in the water at a time, where when fun fishing the sky is the limit. That’s how the nickname “spider fishing” came about when you see pontoon boats with rods or cane poles sticking out all the way around the boat; hence the population of rod holders.

But as of late, the boat manufacturers have crossed the line with the pontoon boat, coming out with a model designed specifically for fishing. Ones with fishing chairs front and back; ones with live wells for keeping bait and/or fish alive (everyone knows it is better to filet a live fish than a dead one … don’t they?); ones heavy duty enough to carry a big enough outboard motor rival some of the smaller bassboats; ones already equipped with trolling motors and the latest technological electronics for fishing; ones with built-in coolers and stereos for entertainment; ones with enclosed port-a-potties under the sundeck; and ones, no less, with bimini tops for shade and some even have extension covers to convert the pontoon boat into something nearer resembling a houseboat. I like to refer to it as the “luxury” or “Cadillac” version of fishing.

There are still those out there that are stuck with the idea that the only way to catch fish is with a bassboat; especially the guides. That’s fine for the competitors that are looking for local info prior to a tournament; but I’m here to tell you that if the fish were that smart, they would school up and turn your boat over! Some say it’s because that is what customers expect because they watch the fishing shows on TV and, of course, they’re only using bassboats. Some say that when customers are paying to fish, they don’t want to take “all day” traveling. Well, that may be true for some folks that have never been fishing before in their lives and are actually more interested in riding in a supped up, skim the top of the waves kind of boat that is actually more like a ride at Disney than a fulfilling day of fishing. But, recently, quite a few of the guides are coming around to the idea that luxury is more of what the majority of people are looking for when considering hiring a guide to fish, especially if it is part of a vacation. Of course, they still expect the guide to have enough expertise to put them on fish and tell them how to catch ‘em; but that goes unsaid (or it should, anyway).

Personally, in my business, I like the idea of being able to offer a choice to my customers: bassboat or pontoon boat – what’s your preference?

2005-06-02T20:43:00.001-04:00

The "Happy Fisherman"~~~or ~~~ Captain "Marvel"

Being out on the water among nature is what I enjoy. Whether it be on the bassboat flying across the water to find the best fishing hole, or cruising on the pontoon boat (again, looking for the best fishing hole). My father-in-law, of whom I never had the chance to meet, told my wife this not long before he passed on, "You will never be closer to God while you're still alive than when you are out on the lake amongst some of His greatest creations." I believe his words were very true. I know that everyone is curious as to what may lie outside our galaxy, but the most fascinating things of this universe are still right here on earth, even with some still waiting to be discovered! Anyway, I am just glad and thankful that God put fish in the waters to not only nourish our bodies, but also to entertain our souls.