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Keep an eye out for cobia

Reel Time: Keep an eye out for cobia

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Outdoors, Reel Time.

As the waters cool in the Tampa Bay region, savvy anglers know it’s time to start looking for cobia in area waters.

These feisty game fish can grow to over 100 pounds, and 50- to 60-pound fish are common during the fall. While most anglers target cobia in the Gulf, the species ranges widely throughout local bays as well. Years ago, I was introduced to a cobia fishery I never knew about in upper Tampa Bay by Capt. Bryon Chamberlin of Land o’ Lakes.

That first day we launched near Apollo Beach and motored towards the Big Bend power plant, its twin stacks emitting plumes of steam silhouetted against a brilliant orange sky. That cold morning, the warm water discharge created steam that wafted over the chilly waters of Tampa Bay. The hope was that these warm waters would attract rays, jack crevalle, snook and our target, cobia. The strategy was to look for large eagle rays. Chamberlin knew that cobia “ride” their wings, looking for prey.

We had barely set up near the warm water when the wing tips of a large ray broke the surface about 100 feet away. Chamberlin dropped his trolling motor and quietly closed within casting distance. When the ray was 50 feet away, I made a cast and stripped the fly in the path of the ray as three large cobia came into view. A fish we estimated at 50-60 pounds attacked the black and purple bunny with a vengeance that surprised me, causing me to hold on too long and breaking my 16-pound tippet. I barely had time to recover and tie on a new fly before Chamberlin was moving towards another disturbance on the water. This one didn’t have a cobia in attendance, but in the next half hour, I had shots and refusals from four fish.

Chamberlin suggested a different pattern and I started to cut off the fly. For some reason, I waited a split second. Suddenly, a large brown shape morphed near the boat. Making a roll cast, I placed the fly 2 feet in front and watched as a large cobia inhaled the offering. This time I made a hard strip strike and relaxed my grip on the line as the fish bolted for the horizon. The cobia fought hard, making frequent head-shaking appearances at the surface followed by long runs into the backing. Thirty minutes later, Chamberlin lifted the 40-pound-plus fish for a few photos before we revived it and released it.

Unlike most fish, cobia are often easier to find and feed on a slack tide. When the tide is running hard, the rays feed on the bottom. When the tide starts to slow, the rays come back up to the surface and bring the cobia with them. Bright sunny days with light winds make for optimal conditions and could yield multiple shots.

This is definitely a hit-or-miss fishery, but it’s totally worth the effort when you have a chance at a 50-pound fish on a fly in Tampa Bay. Cobia can also be found along the beaches and over structure offshore in the fall. It’s a good idea to have a 10-weight outfit rigged and in the rod rack even if you’re not targeting cobia. They have a way of showing up suddenly and it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.

Reel Time: Courtesy - An angler’s rules of the road

Reel Time: Courtesy – An angler’s rules of the road

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Fishing, Outdoors, Reel Time.

Fall fishing is with us and, once again, anglers will be chasing schooling fish along the Gulf beaches. This is a good time to remember the angling “rules of the road” to be sure everyone has a chance at success.

Over the years, I’ve adopted a policy that I call “show them the courtesy they don’t show you.” My intention is to carry this in the back of my mind at all times. I found it necessary to do this because for so many years it was a knee-jerk reaction to unload on anyone who got in my “space” while I was fishing. I’ve mellowed over the years after coming to the realization that I was the

one that suffered the consequences of my actions. Most of the time after an outburst, I’d move on anyway, carrying with me a bit less serenity. At some point in time, it dawned on me to keep my composure. After all, there’s a lot of water to fish, so move on.

When we’re fishing, we have no idea what’s going on with the others we’re sharing the water with. They could be fishing to eat, indulging in a passion, finding solace from a traumatic experience, enjoying a day with friends or family or just getting some relaxation. We all get caught up in our fishing at times and let our awareness drift as we stalk a school of fish or head to the next spot we’re going to target. Most anglers start out with areas in mind where they’ve caught fish before and, more often these days, we either find someone there or nearby.

All too often this can mean that fishermen get crowded together, which has the potential to ruin everyone’s experience. There are lots of places to fish, so if you find someone else nearby, move on to another location. You may even find that you discover fish or a fishing spot you didn’t know about.

I generally hunt fish by poling in shallow water or in schools along the beaches. When I encounter another angler I either ask them if it’s okay to pass or just give them a wide berth. Most everyone appreciates this gesture and will tell you to proceed, but sometimes they want you to stay completely away, even if there’s little chance of disturbing the action. If this is the case, I don’t argue, I just move on. Even though I don’t fish offshore, I know that many anglers work hard to find a ledge or hard bottom where they target fish and they carefully guard it, never overfishing it. One of the worst things they experience is anglers who look for spots that others are fishing. Most often they don’t have the same respect as the original angler and mark the spot on their GPS, returning later to catch every fish they can. If care isn’t taken, it’s possible to ruin a good hole by overfishing it.

Fishing schooling species like tarpon, Spanish mackerel, little tunny and kingfish is another time when anglers need to be considerate of each other. Savvy anglers make

a stealthy approach, working the edges of a school where they know predators patrol for prey. They understand that a careful approach is their best chance of success.

Anglers who don’t know the ropes often troll right through schools of baitfish and breaking fish, causing them to sound and ruining the action for everyone. When anglers take the time to consider others on the water, everyone wins. Fishing should be fun and with a little consideration, it can be. When you’re on the water, make it a habit to stay well away from other anglers and if you encounter someone who isn’t playing by those rules, move on. Show them the courtesy they don’t show you.

Reel Time: Memories of Matlacha

Reel Time: Memories of Matlacha

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Outdoors, Reel Time.

No one who lives on the coast of Florida has escaped the fury of a hurricane in one form or another. Here on the Suncoast, we’ve managed to dodge the worst of the damage that these increasingly frequent and powerful storms bring, both to those of us who live here and the unique habitat we treasure.

Now, for the second time in the last two decades, a hurricane (Charley, then Ian) that was predicted to impact us directly devastated an area less than two hours to our south. As we were spared, one of Florida’s most prized angling destinations has been forever altered by what is being called one of the most powerful and damaging storms ever. 

As I ponder the unimaginable tragedy that the inhabitants of this region are living through, my thoughts keep returning to memories of better times, as a boat rises to a plane, Smokehouse Bay’s labyrinth of mangrove-lined channels stretching out in the distance to Matlacha Pass. The feel of the soft southwest Florida breeze in my hair causing me to remove my cap and lift my gaze to the promise of the day ahead. This is how I will forever remember Pine Island, Matlacha, Cayo Costa and the myriad islands that dot Pine Island Sound and Charlotte Harbor. I first visited this area in the early 90s and it instantly became my favorite “travel” destination. Just an hour and a half south of our home waters of Sarasota Bay and Anna Maria Sound, these communities and the waters that surround them were among the finest examples of an “Old Florida” that is quickly disappearing. Located seven miles south of fabled Boca Grande Pass, Matlacha and Pine Island are bookmarked by the aquatic preserves that bear their name and Little Pine Island, an uninhabited, 4,700-acre island. These unique communities still hadn’t been spoiled by development and Matlacha’s streets were lined with quaint, brightly-colored homes, businesses and art galleries. On Pine Island, the communities of St. James City, Bokeelia and Pineland featured only one traffic signal. Conspicuously absent were the shopping malls and high rises that blight much of Florida’s coastal landscape. With a little imagination, anglers could visualize a seascape reminiscent of what the first settlers might have found then. 

While the history of Matlacha spans less than a hundred years, Pine Island’s first documented settlers, the Calusa, are thought to have inhabited the island from approximately 30 AD until just after 1513 when the Spanish conquistador, Ponce de Leon, arrived. Anglers who have fished these rich waters could visualize the clear waters and their vast seagrass beds as the Calusa might have. Even these first settlers experienced devastating storms, as is evidenced by artifacts found on their mounds in Pineland, which is the site of a museum and interpretive center. While there is a history of destructive storms constantly altering the resilient marine landscape, recovery is now impeded by “civilization” that taxes these waters with sewage, agricultural runoff and the thousand other cuts that development has brought in its wake.

This is a cautionary tale reminding us to take care of our habitat and waters so that when they are impacted by a hurricane, they have a better chance at recovery. That’s also why it’s urgent that Island residents and anglers be part of the solution by working with advocacy groups like Suncoast Waterkeeper. You have an opportunity to hear about the work they are doing and support their efforts by attending their annual fundraiser, Brunch For The Bay, at the Bradenton Yacht Club this Saturday, Oct. 15. The continued health of the area we love depends on our commitment to action.

Reel Time: Fall fishing forecast - fun

Reel Time: Fall fishing forecast – fun

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Fishing, Reel Time.

Fall is in the air. Most of our windows and doors are still closed and the AC is on, but the light and the cooling mornings hold the promise of change.

This is a change ushered in by cooler temperatures, shorter days and arguably some of the best nearshore angling opportunities we have. As water temperatures drop, schools
of bait should migrate inshore with pelagic species like kingfish, Spanish mackerel, false albacore (little tunny), cobia and tripletail hot on their trail.

Now is a great time to prepare for the fall season, getting tackle in order at home and keeping an eye to the sky for diving birds and the water for breaking fish when you’re on the water. All these species will take live bait, lures or flies and can be caught on spinning, bait casting or fly tackle. Except for larger king mackerel and cobia, most can be landed with light tackle, which adds to the challenge.

Rigging will depend on the species you’re targeting. Since it’s possible to encounter so many different species in a single outing, multiple outfits are a good idea. Rigging options include wire, monofilament, long shanked hooks, or a combination. It’s possible to catch a kingfish or Spanish mackerel without wire, but your odds aren’t good. Most species shy away from wire, especially in clear water and when the sun is high. That’s when it’s time to switch to a long shank hook or a heavy (60-pound) monofilament leader. Even then, it’s possible to get cut off but you’ll get more action. When using wire, an 8- to 12-inch trace can be tied to monofilament using an Albright special knot (best) or a swivel. If you use a swivel, use black as opposed to a silver one to prevent fish from mistaking it for forage. American Fishing Wire makes a product called Surflon Micro Supreme that is extremely flexible and kink resistant. This wire can be knotted to your lure, hook or fly like monofilament. It also provides greater flexibility and less stretch than monofilament. Umpqua makes a product that’s ideal for fly anglers. Their Re-Twistable Haywire Twist wire is reusable and will allow you to change flies in a snap. This is the quickest and most painless system to rig wire for toothy fish. It’s safe to switch to wire under low light conditions like early morning, overcast days and late in the day.

One of the most effective ways to find schooling fish in the fall is to look for surface action and diving birds in the inshore Gulf waters. But don’t assume fish aren’t present if there are no outward signs of them. Predators can often be found around structures, reefs and wrecks that attract bait.

When you find feeding fish, you can approach them by trolling, drifting or with the use of a trolling motor. Whatever method you employ, never let your boat pass through or get too close to the action. With more and more boats and anglers pursuing feeding fish, they are likely to sound and move away. The best bet is to stay outside the action but within casting distance. If trolling, make wide turns so only your lures pass through the action.

Live bait anglers target schooling fish in several ways. By anchoring up current from a likely area, they may deploy a chum bag and then toss wounded live baits to draw fish into casting range. This can be an extremely effective method. Those that prefer artificial lures find spoons particularly effective as well as jigs like the DOA CAL or the Berkley Gulp. One of the most exciting and effective types of lures are topwater models like the MirroLure Top Dog, the Heddon Zara Spook or Rapala Saltwater Skitter Pop. Not only is the strike visual and often explosive, but their action can attract target species.

Fly fishing is also an effective and exciting way to target fall species from cobia to tripletail, Spanish mackerel and even kingfish. The same rigging applies and topwater flies like the Crease fly or Garthside Gurgler can produce some memorable strikes. Clouser Deep Minnows are also a great choice for Spanish mackerel and false albacore. This is a good time of the year to have a 10- or 11-weight rod rigged with a big black fly should a migrating cobia make an appearance.

Whatever your fishing style, take advantage of the great action you’ll find in area waters this fall. If you’re new to the game, consider hiring a guide. This is a great way to learn the ropes and a great value when shared with a friend. Good fishing!

Reel Time: Planning a successful fishing trip

Reel Time: Planning a successful fishing trip

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Fishing, Outdoors, Reel Time.

Planning any fishing trip can be a challenge given the peculiarities of weather and the idiosyncrasies of fish. Add a few thousand miles, a different language and an exotic species or two, and some serious planning is advisable.

Chances are you’ve been looking forward to this trip for a long time and finally, you’ll have the opportunity to do nothing but eat, fish, sleep and repeat for a week or more. More than likely, it’s taken a tremendous amount of time and money to get this opportunity so it makes good sense to develop a plan to assure that you have the best possible chance of success.

Deciding where to go and when are the first decisions you’ll make. While it’s not impossible to book your own trip, knowing the best time, tides and lodging can be daunting. In addition, juggling the details of plane reservations, transfers, accommodations and guides can increase the challenge of putting together a self-guided trip.

A knowledgeable outfitter or travel host can provide you with the experience and insider information that will allow you to immerse yourself in the experience instead of the details. Even when using an outfitter, you’ll need to do some research to assure you’ve matched your angling needs and expectations to your chosen destination. There are a lot of resources online, including some great groups on Facebook, but you’ll need to vet those sources.

On recent trips to the Bahamas and Montana, I traveled with groups hosted by Capt. Rick Grassett of Sarasota. While I’ve planned my own trips around writing assignments for years and am familiar with many of the destinations I’ve traveled to with him, having all the arrangements, including air travel, coordinated by someone else is a big asset.

When choosing an outfitter or destination host, be aware that knowing what you want from your trip and asking the right questions is important to fulfilling your expectations. Some of the best fishing is available at sites that have the least amenities. If you require a certain level of service or are traveling with non-fishers, you’ll want to research locations that offer specific conveniences as well as good fishing. While you won’t want to plan your trip based on secondhand information, you’ll find it can be helpful to talk to others who have made the trip you’re planning. Ask the outfitter or host for several references and question them carefully. Make sure they have been to the location recently and at the time of the year you plan to visit.

In foreign countries, (the Bahamas is a foreign country) you’ll be hard-pressed to replace items you forgot to pack, particularly fishing tackle. This is one case when it’s probably better to pack more than you think you’ll need, within reason! Making a packing list and checking it before your departure will pay dividends. Most destinations provide lists that you can use to make sure you don’t forget anything important. While their recommendations are a good place to start, customizing your own travel list can help ensure that you have what you need while streamlining the amount of baggage you take.

Many tropical fishing destinations are very near the equator, so anglers need to pay special attention to the sun. Long-sleeved pants and shirts with sun protection are advisable along with a high SPF waterproof sunscreen. Polarized glasses with glare guards and a fishing hat with a dark under brim are mandatory and a second pair of each should accompany you. For years I’ve used a full-face mask and gloves for sun protection. Recently, I started wearing a fishing hoodie with thumb holes that protect my face, hands and wrists. I find hoodies much more comfortable and invested in several that have bamboo (very comfortable) fibers woven in. Invest in a good pair of flats wading boots and a sling or fanny pack with a water bottle holder and you’ll be good to go.

The success or failure of any fishing adventure will vary due to conditions beyond your control but being mindful of the things you do have control over can make or break your trip. Be prepared, do your homework up front, ask good questions of knowledgeable sources and be flexible. The time and effort you expend in planning the trip will pay in dividends of tight lines and lasting memories.

Reel Time: You have to do your homework, son

Reel Time: You have to do your homework, son

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Fishing, Outdoors, Reel Time.

For anglers who aren’t familiar with Andy and (son) Nicky Mill’s podcast, Mill House, you have a treat in store. I’ve watched the podcasts from the beginning but had recently not been following them. That was until a friend kept commenting on the excellent information he was getting that helped him be a better fisherman. That led me to the most recent episode with Capt. Randy Towe of Islamorada, a highly respected guide, multiple tournament winner, innovator and the owner of an Islamorada landmark, Islamorada Fishing Outfitters.

While Towe’s accomplishments and contributions to fly fishing were the theme of this podcast, Andy Mill steered the conversation to the legendary (and recently deceased) Key’s guide Capt. Billy Knowles, who was a mentor to Towe and the reason for the title, “You have to do your homework, son.” That phrase always followed any question Towe had for Knowles as he was learning the flats of the Upper Keys. Not a deflection, but an intentional lesson that paid dividends to Towe over the years.

I had been a sponge for the Mills’ interviews with the men and women who were the creators of the flies and techniques that introduced so many of today’s anglers to fly fishing for tarpon, bonefish and permit. In the episode with Towe, I was getting an appreciation of how the Mills are both preserving the legacy of these anglers while at the same time sharing the wisdom of their success with a new generation of anglers. Nothing could have been more poignant than getting that message and then relistening to the episode with Capt. Knowles.

I was fortunate to meet and fish with Andy Mill and Capt. Bob Branham at the Cheeca Lodge’s 1998 Presidential Bonefish Tournament in Islamorada. That was a fortunate introduction, via Mill, to some of the Key’s top guides, legends themselves. During the 90s through my involvement with the Florida Outdoor Writer’s Association, I was also fortunate to meet and fish with Keys guides like Nat Ragland, Dale Perez, Jose Wejebe and Stu Apte. I also had the good fortune to meet Joan Wolf, know Lefty Kreh and interview permit legend Del Brown.

What those experiences taught me was the importance of the information those men and women possess and the fact that the Mills were now preserving that legacy in these legend’s inflections and humor, and in their own words. “Do your homework, son.” Those were the words of wisdom that Towe received from Knowles, and he explains in the episode how those words made him a success. More importantly, he eulogized Knowles as the man who made him a better angler and a better man.

Thanks to the Mills, we can still see and hear Knowles tell his life story while experiencing what impact that had in Towe’s life. That’s a wonderful life lesson that resonates far beyond the flats.

Reel Time: Learning to fish – back to basics

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Fishing, Outdoors, Reel Time.

Anglers of all stripes like to keep up with state-of-the-art innovations in the angling world. While that new jig or special fly can perhaps improve their odds at catching fish, it’s important for new anglers to learn and apply the basics, the foundation that successful angling is built on.

Fishing means different things to different people. To some, it’s the simple pleasure of being on the water, where catching is optional. To others, it’s serious business and the outcome can make or break a day on the water. For still others, it’s the search for a meal or just an opportunity to share time with friends or family.

Whatever fishing means to you, it doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, I’m convinced that the less complicated it is, the better your chance of success. That might not be apparent when browsing the tackle department at your nearest sporting goods store or tackle shop. There is a plethora of gear lining the shelves meant to lure anglers. Even the basics like line and hooks come in many shapes and colors, each promising the angler an advantage over the fish. Lures dazzle the eye with a rainbow of colors in mind-bending holographic patterns. In truth, experience has taught me that there’s no special magic to finding the right gear for angling success. Instead, concentrating on a few basic time-tested techniques will improve the luck of even the greenest angler.

Most important is the essential outfit – rod, reel and line. Pick the best quality tackle you can afford, but not the most expensive available. I’m talking about gear that is solidly made, and able to survive the rigors of saltwater. Whether you’re using spinning tackle, fly tackle or bait casting gear, get an outfit that’s balanced and appropriate for the kind of fishing you’ll be doing. A balanced outfit means that the weight is evenly distributed when held just forward of the reel on the cork of the rod. This isn’t an exact science, but you’ll be able to feel if one component is oversized.

Reel Time: Learning to fish – back to basics
The best place to shop for fishing tackle is at your local fishing outfitter. There you have the advantage of local knowledge. – Rusty Chinnis | Sun

An appropriate outfit is one that is up to the task of catching the fish you’re targeting, but no heavier than necessary. An 8- to 10-pound rig is perfect for snook, trout, redfish and other inshore species while a 20- to 40-pound outfit works best for anglers hunting kingfish and cobia along the beach or bottom fishing for grouper, snapper or amberjack over offshore ledges and wrecks. The line should also match the outfit you’re using and should fill the spool of the reel. The most common problem I see is reels with too little line. This severely hampers the angler’s casting accuracy and distance.

When it comes to deciding whether to use live bait or artificial lures, I think artificial lures are a better choice, especially for beginning anglers. First and foremost, lures are less of a hassle. Live bait takes time to acquire, must be kept healthy and usually stays close to where it’s cast. Artificial lures by contrast don’t have to be changed often and aren’t affected by pests like pinfish. At worst it only involves changing the body of a jig occasionally. Using lures will allow you to cover more water, testing various water depths and retrieval speeds.

My personal favorite is a jig, and while I now use mostly lead-headed jigs with plastic bodies, the original lead-head jigs with bucktail skirts are still a great choice. My second choice would be a topwater plug. These lures require a bit of practice to master “walking the dog,” but allow the angler to cover a lot of water and attract fish with their sound and surface disturbance.

Consult your local tackle shop when choosing an outfit. They know the area, have a wealth of experience, and can be trusted to get you off to a good start. While big box stores might seem a good place to shop, you’re not as likely to get the professional advice of a local shop. Do some homework before shopping so you can pick the best rig for the fishing you intend to do.

There is no doubt that innovations appear that you want to be aware of, but your overall experience will be enhanced if you master the basics first.

Reel Time: Making fishing fun

Reel Time: Make fishing fun

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Fishing, Outdoors, Reel Time.

Lately, it seems we’re constantly reminded how our experiences growing up molded us into the kind of person we are today. The all-too-often-heart wrenching news we’re seeing emphasizes just how important it is to give children positive, optimistic and life-affirming experiences growing up.

Introducing children to fishing, the natural world that supports it and working together with others to accomplish a goal can create the foundations of a healthy and well-adjusted adult if we strive to make fishing uncomplicated and as much fun as possible. Those experiences on the water leave indelible memories and help impart the importance of camaraderie, the natural world and a desire to protect it for future generations.

Creating unrealistic expectations can discourage young anglers and be the difference between the kindling of a passion or an aversion to the activity. The basics of fishing are easy to teach and don’t require expensive equipment. If there’s a cardinal rule to getting kids interested in fishing, it’s to keep them engaged. Children are naturally curious; they love to play in and on the water and are fascinated by the creatures they find there. Catching fish isn’t their main objective and you shouldn’t make it the focus of an outing. It’s important to plan a trip that includes other activities like swimming, wildlife identification and snorkeling as well as fishing.

Being on the water provides an excellent opportunity to teach kids about their environment and boating safety skills. It’s important to let kids be a part of the adventure and getting them involved is a great way to interject a lesson in responsibility. Let them drive the boat even if they’re just sitting on your lap while you steer. Introduce them to navigating the Intracoastal Waterway and give them things to be in charge of such as making sure everyone knows where the safety equipment is.

Don’t start children out with cheap fishing rods and reels. Provide them with decent equipment that’s light and manageable. An ultra-light rig with 6-pound test line is a great way to start. Try and think like a kid when fishing. Children would rather catch a dozen pinfish in a half-hour than wait hours for a chance at a bigger or better fish. Action is paramount; kids are easily bored and distracted.

Consider starting kids fishing with a small popping cork that they can watch for signs of action. If you can start teaching kids that the enjoyment of the adventure isn’t measured by the number or size of fish you catch, you’ll teach them an important lesson that many anglers never learn. If you can make the experience interesting for them, even if they don’t catch anything they are more likely to want to do it again. Kids might be more interested in collecting shells, counting crabs or looking for manatees or dolphins than fishing, so be sensitive to what’s bringing them pleasure.

It’s also important to emphasize safety, bending down barbs and making them aware of fish with sharp teeth and stingers like catfish and stingrays. These first experiences on the water are very important and you should consider a plan of action in advance in case the fishing isn’t great. The last thing you want to do is bore kids by sitting on a spot too long. Keep your eyes and ears open and you might learn a lesson or two from them!

Reel Time: Jack crevalle, pit bull of the sea

Reel Time: Jack crevalle, pit bulls of the sea

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Fishing, Outdoors, Reel Time.

For most local anglers, jack crevalle is not a target species. That’s pretty much true for fly and spin anglers as well as those that troll the beaches and passes. Most jack crevalle are caught inshore by anglers fishing for trout, redfish and snook. Small jack crevalle are considered trash fish by many because they are caught while targeting a different species and aren’t great fighters. All that changes when a jack over 5 pounds is hooked.

The fight and tenacity of this fish usually provides a new appreciation of these “pit bulls” of the sea. During the summer months, it’s not uncommon to encounter large marauding groups of big jack crevalle along local beaches where they pursue schools of baitfish. While even “smallish” jacks can put up a feisty battle, larger members of the species are incredibly challenging. A big jack on the west coast will run about 15-20 pounds and can put up an awe-inspiring fight. It’s not uncommon for a 20-plus-pound jack crevalle to fight for 15-20 minutes. Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate these tenacious marauders, and while I don’t usually target them, I never turn down a cast at a big fish.

When you encounter large schools of fish, the best choice of lures is a popper. There’s something about the disturbance on the surface that drives these fish wild. Catching them on a fly meant for tarpon is another challenge, but there’s a trick to enticing them. On numerous occasions, I have fished the edges of a school of feeding jacks only to have them inspect and turn down my flies. After a little experimenting, I found the “secret” was to toss the fly into the center of the school and to strip as fast as possible. The fact that the fly is surrounded by jacks seems to kick in competition and the fly is usually taken after only a couple of strips. Once on the line, jack crevalle make long head-shaking runs before settling into a circling pattern where they use their wide bodies to put up as much resistance as possible. The battle is usually won when the angler is able to get their heads out of the water, robbing them of much of their power. Even after an exhausting battle for the angler and the jack, they are easily revived and seem relatively unscathed by the experience.

Years ago, I encountered big jacks schooled under the Longboat Pass Bridge. They would attack a plug, popper or other noisy lure with a ferocity that was amazing, but were almost impossible to land before they cut you off on the bridge pilings. After many failed attempts, we came on the idea of tossing a hook-less “teaser” under the bridge to pull them away from the pilings and fenders. There we could present poppers and have a chance at landing them. Before long we were vying to see who would toss the teaser because it was such an incredible experience to see them explode on the plug. The same tactic can be used to lure a school of fish on the beach close to the boat for a cast. Jacks don’t have teeth, so a heavy leader isn’t necessary. Fortunately, they don’t seem to be particularly leader-shy. When one is hooked, it needs to be fought just like a tarpon or other big predator, with maximum pressure from the time of the take until they are ready to land. When they travel the beach, they are usually in large schools, while inshore they are more likely to roam in pairs or small schools. If you think jacks aren’t worth the effort, cast a popper to a school of big fish sometime and try to keep it away from them. I guarantee you’ll have a new appreciation for this species.

Reel Time: All hands on deck

Reel Time: All hands on deck

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Outdoors, Reel Time.

This past week I had the pleasure of fishing with Captain Scott Moore, Tampa Bay Waterkeeper board member Adam Fernandez and his two boys, AJ and Henry, ages 7 and 5.

I’ve been a fisherman my whole life, having been fortunate to be raised by a father who enjoyed the outdoors and introduced me to fishing when I was 5 years old. During that day on the water memories flooded back as I watched the boy’s enthusiasm and delight catching and releasing snook, trout and sheepshead. It also brought into clear focus why I commit time writing about working to protect water quality and habitat along the Suncoast. Often these days I can only wonder what kind of opportunities AJ and Henry will have when they grow up and what opportunities they might have to share time on the water with their sons or daughters. It’s times like this that bolster my resolve to protect this special resource.

The fishing was good that day despite the high pressure and slick conditions we experienced on the backside of a front. We started on the east side of Egmont Key, where Henry and AJ landed snook and sheepshead. After catching several fish, we left what was becoming a very crowded area and crossed the bay to Rattlesnake Key on the south shore near the Skyway bridge. It didn’t take long before Moore had snook boiling at the back of the boat and AJ and Henry leaned into bent rods, filled with joyful enthusiasm, as they reeled in snook after snook. As we passed rods to the boys and unhooked fish, the conversation turned to the unprecedented loss of seagrass in Tampa and Sarasota Bay. I have fished Rattlesnake Key many times over the years, and when I mentioned to Fernandez how thin the grass looked in areas and that it appeared to be missing in others, Moore responded, “I’ve been fishing this part of Tampa Bay for more than 50 years and I would estimate that one-third of the grass has disappeared in just the last three years.”

Suddenly it became clear that if AJ and Henry were to have a future of good fishing that it was time for “all hands on deck!” When I looked up the definition in Webster’s dictionary, I realized the definition perfectly described the situation “of, relating to, or being a situation in which every available person is needed or called to assist.” The problem is that waiting might equal being too late. This amazing habitat that was a gift to us is slipping away. It’s not too late, but the clock is ticking. Everyone who values this resource needs to lend a hand and maybe most importantly, elect leaders who will work for the people and not for special interests. I’ve said it before but it’s worth repeating, don’t judge candidates by what they’re promising to do to get elected, but instead how they’ve voted in the past. The information is public record and one of the best places I’ve found to vet politicians is at the website of the non-partisan League of Conservation Voters,  I cast my vote for candidates who have a proven record of voting in support of the clean water I drink and fish in.

While addressing water quality is most important, we need organizations like the Sarasota and Tampa Bay Estuary Programs, START, Sarasota Bay Watch, Tampa Bay Watch, Suncoast Waterkeeper, Tampa Bay Waterkeeper, Vote Water and All Clams on Deck to be spreading the word, educating young advocates and doing restoration work with fish, oysters and clams. I believe it rises to a moral obligation.

Reel Time: Before you go

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Fishing, Outdoors, Reel Time.

Getting on the water can be challenging for the average angler. Life often gets in the way of your favorite pastime and finds you unprepared when opportunity arises. Maybe it’s the “chance” day off or an unexpected invitation that has anglers grabbing their gear, putting it on a boat and heading out. Being prepared before you go and after can guarantee a better chance at success on those special days.

One way to make sure you’re ready when opportunity arises is to create a checklist that you follow before you head out to make the first cast, and one that prepares you for your next outing. With a little due diligence, you can avoid the mistakes that cause you to lose opportunities and fish, mistakes that can be easily avoided.

Here are a few things I include on my checklist, before and after a trip. The hook is one of the smallest but most important components of an effective rig. It’s also one of the easiest things to forget to check. A hook that was razor sharp the last time you used it can become dulled in numerous and unnoticed ways. Contact with the rub rail of the boat, structure in the water, guides and many other objects can cause a hook to lose its edge. Check the hook on your fingernail, if you touch it there and it doesn’t slip, you’ll know it’s sharp enough. It’s always a good idea to have a hook sharpener on hand and touch up the point several times during your outing.

Having tackle and accessories ready before you go will increase your chances for a successful day on the water. – Rusty Chinnis | Sun

Knots are probably the second leading reason fish are lost. Even the best-tied knot will break if it’s not tightened. You may tie perfect knots but there’s a chance they could loosen between trips. Always make sure you moisten knots before tightening them, and draw them up very tight. The first place a leader will break is at a knot when it slips.
Checking the drag is, of course, one of the most important things you can do. Make sure your drag is smooth. I would suggest having the drag set so you don’t have to touch it while fighting a fish. Equally important, loosen the drag when not fishing, which prevents the drag washer from becoming compressed.

Checking leader and line for nicks and abrasion is another must. It’s easier to cut off a small section of leader and re-tie than to lose a good fish to an imperfect line. Fly anglers should always stretch their fly line before making the first presentation of the day. Fly line has memory and will come off the spool in small loops that can tangle easily, causing you to break off a fish. Strip off the line you’ll be casting, make a cast and gently stretch it as you retrieve it. It doesn’t hurt to repeat the process during the day.

Each time you step to the bow, make sure your knots are tight, the drag is properly set, hooks are sharp, leaders are abrasion free and fly line is stretched. It only takes a minute but might just save the day. On the trips when you find willing fish, your preparedness will turn opportunity into memories. While you’ll always lose fish, even when everything is right, you’ll definitely have a better chance if you develop and follow a simple check list.

Finally, consider keeping flies, lures, leaders, nippers and other essentials ready to go in a boat bag. Check the list, grab your rod, reel and pack and enjoy the fruits of preparing before you go. Tight lines!

Reel Time: The bridges of Manatee County

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Outdoors, Reel Time.

Bridges provide anglers who don’t have a boat or don’t want to bother with one some excellent fishing opportunities.

Their structure provides the perfect habitat for fish. Besides the plethora of small baitfish, crabs and other crustaceans that call these places home, bridges provide gamefish a refuge and an ambush point for feeding. The bridges that span the local passes are also natural pathways for fish like pompano, Spanish mackerel, ladyfish and bluefish. These fish migrate from the Gulf to the local bays and feed around the bridge pilings and fenders. Winter and early spring are particularly good times to find action around the local bridges.  If you happen to have a boat, you’ll find them a great place to fish too.

Reel Time: The bridges of Manatee County
Dave Sparks caught this nice Spanish mackerel on the Longboat Pass Bridge fishing a jig. – Rusty Chinnis | Sun

This winter has been, thankfully, a bit cooler than past years, and fishing for sheepshead, a perennial winter favorite, has been strong around local bridges. If you wonder when the best time to fish bridges might be, I’d refer to the old saying that the best time to go fishing is any time you can. Having said that, if you have the luxury of picking your time and tide, a morning incoming tide is hard to beat. The second-best time would be a late outgoing tide. Timing your trip to coincide with the beginning or end of the tide cycle will make it easier to deal with the often-strong currents that course through the passes. That doesn’t mean you’re restricted to those times and there are ways to rig that will allow you to deal with any tide stage.

A medium-weight spinning outfit is perfect for fishing the bridges. I prefer a 10- to 12-pound outfit since you’ll have to hoist your catch from the water to the bridge. There are special nets available that can be lowered to help with this operation, but it is one more piece of equipment you’ll have to transport. With most catches, a careful hand-over-hand retrieve will work just fine and your mobility will not be restricted. Gloves are recommended. Depending on what is running, a few lure choices will suffice. One of the most effective lures for fishing the passes is the jig. When the current isn’t particularly strong, a jig tied directly to a 30-pound section of leader will work perfectly. If the tide is strong, a weight will help get the offering down in the water column where most of the action often occurs. To keep the weight from interfering with the jig, tie a section of 40-pound leader with a sliding egg sinker between two small swivels. Then add your leader and jig below. This rig can be used with lures or live bait. Another advantage of this rig is that as it is being worked across the bottom, it sends up a small puff of sand that attracts predators like pompano. One of the advantages to fishing from a bridge is the ability to easily move from one spot to another. This allows the angler to try near the pilings, on the edges of the channel and areas where striking fish might be found. If the action is slow or you’re exploring a bridge and pass for the first time, work both sides of the bridge. Vary your retrieve, working the lure fast and slow, exploring the water column.

Spanish mackerel and bluefish, two common species that frequent local bridges, have sharp teeth and can cut through monofilament leader. There are two options to protect your lure. One is to use a short strand of wire leader or heavy monofilament line. The other is to use long-shanked hooks. Wire leaders can make fish leader-shy if the water is clear.  I most often just take my chances. You’ll lose a few lures but, in the end, I’d rather get hits and risk a cutoff than get no hits at all. All things considered, I think you’ll catch more fish without wire. If you do use wire, check out the brands that can be tied like fishing line and use a smaller test (30-pound) leader. The exception to this rule is if you’re fishing turbid water or early and late in the day when the sun is low.

Whatever your fishing style, don’t pass up a trip to the local bridges. The action can be spectacular and the effort required is far less than an outing in a boat.

Reel Time: On the Road - the Nature Coast

Reel Time: On the Road – the Nature Coast

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Fishing, Outdoors, Reel Time.

Have you ever had a fishing trip that was so memorable you felt the need to pinch yourself to make sure it was real? I’ve been fishing a long time and I could count those times on one hand. Now I’ve started on my second hand. Allow me to explain.

I had traveled to the Nature Coast the second week in January this year and settled into a rental house on the Withlacoochee River in Yankeetown. About two and a half hours from Anna Maria, the Nature Coast is one of my favorite places to fish, photograph and explore. Over the years I’ve investigated the waters from Chassahowitzka to Crystal River, but last year at Captain Nick Angelo’s suggestion, I booked a couple of days with him north of Crystal River in Withlacoochee Bay. That trip enamored me with the wild beauty of the region and the redfish that were so willing to take a fly. The second day of my two-day trip started with an experience that I’ll never forget.

Angelo poled his flats boat through a channel and into a cove that had been inaccessible the day before. The sky was cloudless and the shallow water was clear and only 2 feet deep. As we eased towards the black-mangrove edge, Angelo pointed out a half dozen redfish silhouetted over the light bottom and positioned me for a cast. The first two presentations were ignored, but on my third attempt, a 28” red started tracking the fly as Angelo coached me on stripping the fly. The instructions worked and the red rushed and inhaled the fly as I strip struck to set the hook. The fish bolted towards the mangroves but turned as I applied pressure with the rod. Racing back towards the outlet that fed the cove, the red caused the line to “rooster tail” a thin line of water over the mirror-smooth surface. Applying pressure and alternately moving the rod from the left to right I was able to tire the fish after two more short runs. After a quick picture and video clip we returned the red to the water. We had been fishing a total of about 30 minutes when I turned to Angelo and said, “My day’s already made!”

This is a wild and unforgiving part of Florida whose shallow waters are studded with limestone outcroppings, shallow flats and oyster bars. While I always champion using guides in areas I don’t know, this is one place I would never consider bringing my boat. Even Angelo’s mud motor, a specialized engine, was churning up mud and bumping bottom as he took me to places where it seemed angels (or airboats) would fear to tread!

On the first day, we were on the backside of a strong cold front that plunged temperatures into the low 40s with north winds to 20 mph. After a cold run across the open bay, we were able to fish in the lee of a group of mangrove islands. The wind had blown the water out of the shallow bay and we were unable to reach some of Angelo’s favorite backwater haunts. Fortunately, we found groups of hungry redfish huddled on the Gulf side flats. In the low morning light, we had to move extremely slow, sometimes seeing fish almost under the boat. This required nothing more than a quick, short roll cast and made it necessary to shorten my leader and downsize my bite tippet. Once we had the fish “dialed in” we enjoyed a morning and early afternoon of sight-fishing singles, doubles and small groups of redfish.

In the afternoon as the tide rose, we elected to investigate deep into the creeks and channels that feed the vast expanse of marsh grass hammocks. At one point we beached the boat and hiked to an ancient grove of grey weathered cedar trees. The feeling while standing at the base of those twisted sentinels was one of being the first to stand in this spot, a rare experience in today’s Florida.

The second day the winds died and although the day dawned cold, it warmed up to be perfect for sight fishing with multiple opportunities for hook ups and a chance to explore the back bays and coves that had been inaccessible the day before. To top off the trip, just as we were about to “pull the plug,” Angelo spotted a large redfish close to a shallow oyster bar. On my first cast, I was able to hook up with what was the biggest and hardest-fighting fish of the trip. The big red made multiple runs into the backing with head-shaking appearances at the surface before finally tiring enough to be landed, photographed and released.

If you would like to experience one of Florida’s “last frontiers,” contact Captain Nick Angelo at 813-230-8473 or visit his website. It’s a trip you won’t soon forget.

https://youtu.be/DvbdkjMpxZE

Reel Time: A New Year’s resolution

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Environment, Outdoors, Reel Time.

I’m guessing that when it comes to making and keeping New Year’s Resolutions, your average isn’t much better than mine. When I look back, I don’t sweat most of them. Resolutions like losing weight or exercising more aren’t so critical. Then there are other resolutions that one just can’t take for granted or put on hold anymore. The resolution to work to protect the habitat and water quality of the Suncoast rises to that level.

If you think that’s an overstatement, I encourage you to speak to any one of the professional fishing guides, like Captain Justin Moore, a second-generation guide on Anna Maria Island who spends over 200 days on the water every year. As a keen observer by trade and nature, Moore is alarmed with what he’s seeing. It was Moore and his dad, Captain Scott Moore, who first alerted me to the fact that vast stretches of Sarasota Bay had lost seagrasses after the devastating red tide of 2018. How did they know almost a year before the official notice was released by the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program? He saw it with his own eyes, thousands of acres of lush grasses that he had fished for decades were suddenly just bare sand. I heard the same concerns from veteran anglers like Captain Todd Romine, who has been fishing Sarasota Bay for over three decades. Romine was so concerned, he sacrificed a day of fishing to take Sarasota Bay Estuary Program Executive Director Dave Tomasko to show him. Tomasko made an initial determination that day that grass beds that had been in water 5 feet or deeper were essentially gone.

This was six months before the results from the Southwest Florida Water Management District seagrass survey documented an 18% decline in seagrass across Sarasota Bay, Roberts Bay and Little Sarasota Bay from 2018 to 2020. The decline equates to a loss of 2,300 acres of seagrass. The total acreage of seagrass coverage in the area is down from 12,853 in 2018 to 10,540 in 2020. By comparison, seagrasses in the 1950s covered about 10,246 acres, a low after dredge and fill operations and sewage systems devastated a once-vibrant ecosystem. The coverage steadily built from there as municipalities converted to central sewer systems and stormwater runoff began to be managed. Now the loss we’ve experienced in two years means the area basically has to start over.

Tampa Bay, linked directly to Anna Maria Sound, didn’t fare much better, losing 13% of its seagrass, more than 5,400 acres. When you consider that 2.5 acres of seagrass supports up to 100,000 fish and 100 million invertebrates like clams, crabs, starfish and snails, the impact of the loss becomes more evident.

If that wasn’t enough to alarm observers of the bay, the debacle at Piney Point – which released over 200 million gallons of phosphate process wastewater into Tampa Bay in the spring of 2021 – should have been. That release likely led to the most devastating red tide event in upper Tampa Bay in more than 30 years, killing more than 1,711 tons of sea life.

On top of these devastating events, two years of massive and unprecedented lyngbya (cyanobacteria) blooms in Anna Maria Sound and Tampa Bay in 2020 and 2021 blanketed thousands of acres of seagrass with a foul-smelling mass that blocked life-giving light.

While local waters have become clear as they cool during the winter, keen observers will notice that the bay is still chocked with a variety of algae. Why is that a problem? For an answer, we only have to look to the east coast of Florida and the sad saga of the Indian River Lagoon (IRL). Once one of the most vibrant marine ecosystems on the planet, the IRL in recent years has seen massive die-offs of marine life and most recently an unprecedented loss of Florida manatees.

This is not an issue that should concern only fishermen, but has the potential to devastate an economy that depends on clean water and a vibrant ecosystem. People move to our area and buy homes because of the water and natural environment. It’s time for realtors, developers, builders, anglers and every segment of our community to pull together to demand accountability, purchase and protect vulnerable habitat and demand improvements in infrastructure that protect this environmental engine of progress. There are solutions if we can affect the political will. Yes, they will be expensive, but if we don’t act, the cost in the future will be overwhelming and may be too late. Resolve to be part of the solution.

“If you work to save the world and the world is lost, no regrets.” – The Dalai Lama.

Reel Time

Reel Time: Catch and release digitally

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Fishing, Outdoors, Reel Time.

The world of digital photography (and videography) continues to evolve and anglers have never had more options to explore. Whether you’re capturing a picture or a video clip to remind you of your catch, to share with friends and family, or to post on social media, digital cameras allow us to capture images of our catches, making catch and release all the more rewarding. Photography has never been easier and anglers can enjoy this amazing technology no matter what their level of expertise. Most digital cameras and most smartphones also come with software (or apps) that let you enhance the image, crop the size, and share the final product in several ways. You can send the images by email or as a text (straight from a phone), or download them, edit, and print them out to frame and display.

Even though taking a picture may be easy, there are a few basic rules that will help you capture a better image:

  • Before ever leaving the dock be sure you have fresh batteries, charged phone, memory cards with enough space to record your images, a clean lens and a cleaning cloth.
  • There is almost always a certain amount of chaos associated with catching a memorable fish, so get an idea in advance of where you’ll compose your image.
  • Check the background through the viewfinder carefully for distracting and cluttered backgrounds. Make sure you don’t have any unwanted objects, like a rod appearing to stick out of someone’s head.
  • Look to capture photographs that aren’t posed and remember that the sooner you get your picture the more vibrant the colors of a fish will be. First and foremost, fill the frame with the subject, eliminating anything that doesn’t add to the composition.
  • Since you’re filming on the water, check that the horizon is straight. Cameras and most smartphones have the option of putting a grid on the screen.
  • Use a polarizing filter to cut glare and saturate colors.
  • For most shots, I set my camera to aperture (F8) priority.
  • When trying to “catch” a jumping fish make sure you stop the action with an ISO of at least 1,000th of a second. Many digital cameras can capture up to 10 frames a second so set the camera for a rapid burst.
  • Many photographs taken on the water are exposed in bright light. When possible, avoid shadows on anglers’ faces and use a fill flash if necessary.
  • Take several shots from different angles and get the angler excited and talking to you. One of the great advantages of digital is that you can take lots of pictures and edit them on the go to make sure you have the shot you want.
  • Check out accessories like gimbals to take your work to the next level.
  • Start a YouTube channel and learn to upload and link movies.
  • If you’re interested in recording underwater images and clips, check out the GoPro line of cameras and accessories.

If you have photo editing software like Lightroom or Photoshop you can lighten the shadows in post-production. This can sometimes eliminate the need for fill flash (if the contrast isn’t too great) and prevent a flash from creating unwanted reflections on fish. Since lighting is almost always challenging, shoot and then review important shots. If you have a more advanced camera, you can bracket important shots in difficult lighting situations. Expose at least three images: one slightly (one stop) underexposed, one slightly (one stop) overexposed, and one at the setting suggested by the light meter.

There are a lot of excellent digital cameras on the market today. The new generation of smartphones can take amazing images and have clip-on accessories including a polarizing lens.

If you’re really interested in photography, I suggest getting a camera that meets your needs. Most come with a trial version of an image editing software like Adobe Elements. There are many cameras on the market from a few hundred to thousands of dollars. Taking the time to capture the “moments of life” pays dividends that you can continue to relive by sharing them through your images.

For more information on the right camera for you, check with a professional at your local camera shop like Johnson Photo Imaging www.jpiphoto.com or go to www.bhphoto.com. Software demos (check out Lightroom CC 2019) can be downloaded at www.adobe.com.