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Reel Time on the Road: Yellowstone and the Madison River Valley

Reel Time on the Road: Yellowstone and the Madison River Valley, Part Two

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

When I planned my trip to Montana, visiting and photographing Yellowstone was one of my main objectives besides fishing. The day after fishing Lake Ennis and the Madison River, I returned to the park, this time exploring the diverse and magical landscapes of the geyser basins, Yellowstone Lake and the majestic “Grand Canyon of The Yellowstone,” where the Yellowstone River plunges 1,000 feet into a 20-mile multi-colored canyon. Once again, an early start was rewarded with relatively uncrowded roads and attractions where one could more fully appreciate the natural wonders of our first National Park. I was blessed throughout my trip with clear sunny skies and temperatures that ranged from the mid-30s to the low 80s.

The following day, I returned to the Lamar Valley with Ed Chiles and Bradenton attorney Jim Knowles to fish Soda Butte Creek near the eastern entrance to the park. This time I was afforded the luxury of being able to really absorb the wonders of the park as a passenger. The creek was accessed by hiking across an open sage prairie framed by towering mountains draped in verdant green forests. The amazing scenery there, arguably some of the most picturesque in the park, made it hard to concentrate on our dry flies but we all managed to land a number of cutthroat trout and brown trout. Chiles and Knowles each landed cutthroat trout to 18 inches.

On my last day, I elected to fish again on Lake Ennis with Captain Harrison King and this time we spent the day there. A mirror-smooth lake greeted us that morning as we targeted rainbow and brown trout that were taking insects from the surface. This was exciting and demanding fly fishing, requiring quick, long and accurate casts. The highlight of the day was filming King as he got out of the boat and stalked rising “gulpers” along a channel of the Madison that fed into the lake.  He deftly placed his dry fly just up current of a group of feeding fish, landing a beautiful rainbow trout we estimate at 20 inches. It was a fitting end to a memorable Montana vacation.

If you haven’t experienced the wilds of Montana, I highly suggest you do. I’ll always remember the days floating rivers and exploring soaring landscapes, of rounding a corner on a rushing river to see moose, wild turkeys and antlered mule deer drinking from the river and watching antelope, wolves, bison and elk roaming the vast western landscapes.

- Rusty Chinnis | Sun

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Reel Time on the Road: Montana’s Big Hole and Beaverhead Rivers

Reel Time on the Road: Montana’s Big Hole and Beaverhead Rivers

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

When Robert Redford introduced fly fishing to popular American culture in the 1992 movie, “A River Runs Through It,” he also introduced them to the storied trout streams and rivers of Montana. Although I had been a fly fisher for some time this, like so many other anglers, was my introduction to this beautiful part of the world. Since then, over the years I have had the pleasure to fish many of the iconic trout rivers and streams in Montana, Idaho and Wyoming.

While I was always enthralled with the scenery that a float trip opened up to anglers, it was a trip to Oregon last year that expanded my horizons. My wife Chris and I were on the Deschutes River when we found out that you couldn’t fish from the boat there. The fishing consisted of stops to wade for trout and steelhead. What that trip taught me was to take breaks from fishing during a float to sit back and really appreciate the scenery.

When I had the opportunity to take a trip to Montana and experience some famous rivers I had never fished, I signed on. My friend, Captain Rick Grassett, has been leading trips to Montana every year for the past two decades and this year I joined him on the trip. This was an opportunity to fish the Beaverhead and the Big Hole Rivers near Dillon, Montana. The group was hosted by Dave King of King Outfitters and stayed at the Hansen Ranch, a working cattle ranch, an hour southwest of Dillon. Over five days we fished various sections of both rivers as well as a day on a private section of the Beaverhead that included a spring creek. Not only did we have wonderful fishing, but we were also treated to some spectacular scenery and wildlife only available during a float. I did my share of catching wild rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout but also took breaks to just sit back and take in the scenery and the moose, wild turkeys and mule deer that were visiting the river to drink.

We fished dry flies with nymph droppers which gave us a chance at explosive surface strikes from aggressive trout but also allowed us to explore the deeper sections of the river where trout feed on various stages of insects that develop there. My largest trout, a 22” brown, was taken on the private section of the Beaverhead and attacked my hopper imitation with a vengeance. We were alternately guided by King and Dan Allen on our drifts and they provided excellent instruction in reading the river and working the fly line to deal with the various seams and back eddies, to create a natural drift for our flies.

The days of fishing were the highlight of the trip followed closely by the appetizers and meals we enjoyed back at the lodge courtesy of Annie Waltz Kubicka. Kubicka prepared food that combined eye and palate appeal, a consistent topic of conversation and praise from the group.

If you haven’t experienced the fishing and scenery along one of America’s wild rivers, I highly recommend it. Grassett runs yearly trips to Montana. For more information and to experience this fantastic fishery, contact him at 941-350-9790. Contact King Outfitters at 406-596-0209 or visit his Facebook page at King Outfitters. Next week Yellowstone and the Madison River Valley.

Reel Time: Engage and defend

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

This week as I watched the tribute to John Lewis, the American politician and civil rights leader, being eulogized by past presidents of both parties, I was inspired anew by the message of this great American. Lewis encouraged people to speak up and more importantly do something when they see wrongs that need to be righted. While Lewis will be remembered for his bravery in the face of incredible hostility and hatred centered on human rights, I take his message to heart in the threat to our local waters and the habitat that supports it.

Reel Time
Water quality is a continuing problem in local waters. – Rusty Chinnis | Sun

The love of coastal habitats has played a defining role in my life. Memories and friendships forged while fishing have led to my determination to speak to others (like you). We need to marshal our resources to protect these irreplaceable treasures so that future generations might have the same opportunities we’ve had.

I’ve written often about the pressures on our fisheries and more recently about the insults that water quality and habitat destruction pose. Recently I’ve become even more alarmed at what I’m seeing on the waters that surround our homes. I fear that there’s actually a possibility of a collapse of the natural systems that support the fish we seek. If you live near the water you’ve experienced the massive blooms of lyngbya (a dangerous cyanobacteria) that have choked canals and boat basins in our island communities as well as the unprecedented bloom that recently blanketed the shore from Perico Bayou to Palma Sola Bay and beyond.

I’m no scientist but it doesn’t take a degree in biology to recognize that we are surrounded by troubled waters. Sarasota Bay Watch (SBW) was formed after the devastating harmful (red tide) algae bloom of 2005 that lasted for 13 months. SBW is involving citizens in the region in the health of our Gulf, bays and estuaries. The organization has done an excellent job through initiatives that seek to bring water-filtering shellfish back to healthy populations, remove fishing line from bird rookeries, remove trash and invasive plants from coastal islands and educate future stakeholders.

Other organizations like the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA), long champions of protecting fisheries stocks, have begun partnering with groups like SBW and supporting their efforts to stock clams in Sarasota Bay. They also have a robust program of raising and releasing redfish in an attempt to counter the effects of the even more destructive red tide bloom of 2018.

I have supported both organizations since their founding but recently had an epiphany. While I will continue to support groups that work to restore fish and bivalves, it dawned on me that if we don’t address the root problem, i.e. water quality, all other efforts will ultimately lead to failure. This realization led to my involvement with Suncoast Waterkeeper, an organization that addresses these issues. Through outreach, education and advocacy, Waterkeeper groups around the world defend communities against anyone who threatens their right to clean water, from polluters to unresponsive government agencies. The local group founded by Sarasota environmental attorney Justin Bloom has been effective in forcing municipalities from St. Petersburg to Sarasota to adhere to the laws set down in the landmark Clean Water Act. The legislation signed into law in 1972 establishes the basic structure for regulating discharges of pollutants into the waters of the United States and regulating quality standards for surface waters. Locally the law has allowed Suncoast Waterkeeper to force municipalities to address and redress the release of wastewater that has raised nutrient levels in local waters to dangerous levels. Recently, some high-profile sewage spills in Manatee County and Longboat Key, exacerbated by antiquated infrastructure and exploding population growth have been front page news. Unfortunately, these releases are just contributions to a much larger problem. While the root of the problem is too many people, that is an issue that we must accept and find a way to ameliorate.

Recently both Sarasota and Manatee County have contributed millions of dollars to build a world class aquarium near I-75. While I understand the educational principle behind such a project, it seems to me that the money would be better spent fixing the infrastructure that is threatening our “natural aquarium.” Hopefully, we won’t be using aquariums to show our children and future generations what our natural waters “were” like.

Fortunately, it’s not too late to save these precious resources. Sarasota County, in a settlement with Suncoast Waterkeeper, is transitioning to an advanced wastewater system and committed to supporting clean water. To their credit, Manatee County commissioners recently approved a Conservation Referendum that will appear on the November ballot. Voting yes on the referendum would mean approving a property tax increase to create a conservation fund. This will cost the average homeowner about $29 a year, equivalent to 12 McDonalds hamburgers. The “Water Quality, Fish and Wildlife Habitat Preservation and Parks” funding will allow the county to issue bonds of up to $50 million.

Do your part by voting for proposals and leaders both locally and federally that support clean water and clean air. Check their voting record at the League of Conservation Voters  www.lcv.org. Join with Suncoast Waterkeeper to help with local clean water initiatives at www.suncoast waterkeeper.org. Learn about Sarasota Bay Watch and its shellfish restoration program at www.sarasotabaywatch.org.

Next week, let’s go fishing when Reel Time on the Road goes to Dillon, Montana.

Sun protection: do the cool thing

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

Sun protection is a topic worth repeating, especially this time of the year! If you’ve been on the water over the last few years, you’ve noticed anglers covered head to toe even on the hottest and sunniest days. They’re wearing long pants, long-sleeved shirts, gloves, face protection and hats. Years ago, anglers were limited to hats, long heavy cotton clothing and greasy lotions that reflected the sun’s harmful rays.

The damaging effects of sun exposure are one of the most important things for an angler to understand. Sunlight is primarily composed of infrared, visible and ultraviolet light. The ultraviolet light (UV) is potentially harmful and is the wavelength that causes sunburn. Sunburn is a form of radiation burn that results from exposure to this property of light. Symptoms of overexposure in humans consist of red or reddish skin that is hot to the touch and can include general fatigue and mild dizziness. An excess of UV radiation can be life-threatening in extreme cases.

Maximizing your protection from UV light rays is important because the harmful effects of the sun are cumulative over your lifetime. While potentially harmful, the sun is primarily an angler’s friend. If the sun is shining there’s a good chance the weather will allow you to be on the water. If you sight fish, it assures you’ll have a better chance of seeing your quarry and increases your odds of hooking up.

Many part-time fishermen and visitors from the north don’t fully appreciate the potentially harmful effects of the sun, especially in Florida and the southern regions of the northern hemisphere. The most intense exposure to the sun occurs from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. – prime time for fishing Florida’s fertile waters.

Modern sunscreens are rated according to their SPF or sun protection factor. The theory is that if you can stay out in the sun for 15 minutes without getting burned a sunscreen with SPF 10 will help you resist sunburn for 10 times that amount of time, which calculates to about 150 minutes. Our skin has natural SPF depending on the amount of melanin (pigment) it contains. Generally, the darker your complexion the more melanin you have. No matter what your skin color, the best solution is to avoid the sun as much as possible by applying a high SPF sunscreen and covering the skin, vital protection from the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation. Another important factor to consider especially in Florida is if the sunscreen is reef safe, and if not waterproof, make sure you reapply after a swim or shower.

Fortunately, there is also a plethora of high-tech clothing available to anglers that is cool, breathes and contains a UPF (the rating for clothing is expressed as Ultraviolet Protection Factor) factor as well. Companies like Patagonia and Simms offer clothing with UPF ranging from 30-50, with 50 being the highest rating. A rating of 50 translates to approximately 97% protection. These same companies also offer gloves to protect the hands and headgear that protects the head, ears, face and neck. There are constantly new innovations coming out that make these moisture-wicking fabrics even more functional for anglers. Early face protection devices functioned to protect the skin but caused moisture from the breath to fog sunglasses. Now they are designed with breathing openings that virtually eliminate that problem.

One innovative company, TASC, has even harnessed the natural properties of bamboo to create a clothing line with an impressive list of natural properties. They blend the soft inner fibers of the bamboo with organic cotton to create a fabric that has a UPF of 50+ and is moisture-wicking, breathable, lightweight and chemical-free.

There really is no reason not to protect your skin from the sun with the array of sunscreens and clothing available today. It’s a far cry from what was available to anglers a short two decades ago. Locally, AMI Outfitters has the same (branded) clothing at a substantial savings. They also carry hats, gloves and masks. Protect that skin – it’s the only one you’ll ever have, and now you can do it in style. It’s the cool thing to do!

The Ocean Conservancy: Working to protect Florida’s future

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

Since the Ocean Conservancy was founded in 1972, it has changed names several times. With the support of conservation-minded individuals, they’ve accomplished many incredible things, starting with protecting whales and progressing to other wildlife and marine communities that create the web of our oceans.

One of their first initiatives was the Whale Protection Fund, which focused on saving whales and protesting commercial whaling by Russia and Japan. The Ocean Conservancy raised support from concerned citizens to invest in scientific research, launched petitions and ran ads in papers across the nation to raise awareness about the whaling industry. That commitment paid off when the International Whaling Commission finally banned commercial whaling in 1982.

In the early years, their work focused on species like whales, seals and sea turtles. While the Ocean Conservancy has been a part of many success stories, they realized they couldn’t protect species without protecting their habitat. Thinking bigger, the organization shifted to a more ecosystem-based approach. They were also one of the first environmental organizations to engage industries in conservation – a key part of their mission to this day.

In the 1980s, the Conservancy fought for key habitats to be protected under the Marine Sanctuary Program, and their staff started the very first International Coastal Cleanup in 1986.

Over the years, their mission grew and solidified to make them who they are today, a science-based organization that stands on the absolute conviction that each individual can make a positive difference for our oceans.

By working together with concerned citizens, the Ocean Conservancy seeks solutions for a healthy ocean and the wild communities that depend on it.

Today, The Conservancy is dedicated to finding solutions to the biggest threats facing our oceans. And they know that they can’t solve these problems without our support. The Conservancy realizes we all depend on a healthy ocean for the air we breathe, the water we drink and the food we eat.

The Ocean Conservancy tackles the greatest global challenges facing our ocean today.

Even more, they focus on long-term solutions that promote a healthy ocean, abundant wildlife and thriving coastal communities.

The Ocean Conservancy realizes that what happens to the ocean impacts all of us. The ocean is everyone’s responsibility and the Ocean Conservancy can’t do it alone—they need to join forces with people around the world to keep our ocean and our coastal communities healthy and prosperous.

On Monday, July 20, I took part in a Zoom meeting (also presented as a Facebook live event) hosted by J.P. Brooker, director of Florida Conservation for the Ocean Conservancy, with Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Noah Valenstein. During the presentation, Brooker interviewed the secretary about the next steps for Senate Bill 712, which was signed into law by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. Titled the Clean Waterways Act, SB 712 passed the 2020 Florida Legislature with bipartisan support and carries a wide range of water quality protection provisions aimed at minimizing the impact of known sources of nutrient pollution, realigning the state’s resources to enhance the protection of Florida’s environment and strengthening regulatory requirements.

Also discussed were outcomes from this year’s legislative session and other marine and coastal environmental issues that currently face the state. To access the meeting, visit the Ocean Conservancy or YouTube.

Reel Time: Courtesy

Reel Time: Courtesy

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

Some things bear repeating. I’m guessing that you, like me, have a passion for fishing and besides the excitement of catching, a lot of the experience centers around just “being there.” It’s an opportunity to decompress and get away from the everyday challenges we face.

Or it should be. These days, if you’re not careful, it’s easy to let inconsiderate anglers, boaters and Jet Skiers ruin your peace of mind. 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 who 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.

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 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 fishing areas where they’ve caught fish before, and these days it’s not uncommon to find someone there or nearby. There are lots of places to fish, so if you find someone else nearby, move on to another location. It could be a blessing in disguise.

Jet Skiers can be the bane of fishermen, especially those who stake out on the beach looking for tarpon. A successful angler knows the value of patience and can wait hours for fish to move down the beach. When fish finally show up, there’s nothing more frustrating than to have a Jet Skier running up and around the lane that fish are coming down. After years of yelling, I started calling them over and saying hello before explaining what I’m doing. In the vast majority of cases, they apologize and give me a wide berth.

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, say hello and educate them. If that doesn’t work, move on. Show them the courtesy they don’t show you.

Reel Time

Reel Time: Line, leaders and hooks

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

While rods, reels, lures and accessories are most often discussed when it comes to an angler’s resources, lines, leaders and hooks are an integral part of the equation.

Line connects the angler to the action and three choices are available – braid, monofilament, and fluorocarbon. While fluorocarbon, monofilament and braided lines were created to spool reels, fluorocarbon is most often used as a leader material. Each has its advantages and disadvantages and anglers should choose them based on their fishing style and use.

Monofilament has been around for decades and is probably the most commonly used line. It has many advantages and a few disadvantages that will affect the angler’s choice. Chief among its advantages are affordability and the fact that it sinks slowly and is more forgiving (stretches), making it less likely to break when shocked. Its disadvantages include the fact that it is less durable, has a larger diameter and can’t be cast as far.

Braided lines have made significant inroads since their introduction in the early ’90s. They are constructed of a special blend of polyethylene fibers. Some brands are wound loosely while others are fused. Braided lines are extremely durable, with no stretch. The unfused lines are generally suppler, while the fused ones are stiffer but less likely to wrap around guides and form knots during casting, one of the disadvantages of braided lines. When using braid, it’s important to be aware that no loops form on your reel, a sure sign of trouble to come. It’s also wise to raise the rod tip to tighten the line after a cast and before retrieving.

Braided lines are much stronger than mono lines, so pound for pound they have a much smaller diameter. In order to get the line to spool on the reel like mono it is necessary to choose a matching diameter, which will be much stronger than the equivalent an angler is used to. Most anglers choose to go with a matching line test (i.e. smaller diameter line) and add a base of mono on the spool. That way you don’t have to use extra braid that will never see the light of day.

The major advantage of braided lines is that they don’t stretch and are more sensitive, telegraphing subtle strikes. This makes it easier to feel a bite and to set the hook on a fish. This is a big advantage when bottom fishing and targeting fish like sheepshead and mangrove snapper.

Fluorocarbon lines are expensive, and while it was intended as a filler line, most anglers use it primarily for leaders. It has a number of advantages over monofilament line, the most important being that it is less visible in the water. In addition, it is denser, sinks faster and is more abrasion-resistant. It’s important to carefully seat all knots and this is especially true with fluorocarbon. Wet knots and draw them up tight with pliers. Knots break when they slip and a carefully tied knot won’t slip.

There are so many lines and variations on the market that it would take a book to cover them all.

There is a lot of information on the internet, but probably the best advice would be to seek out local knowledge from anglers and tackle shops and try the different lines to see which suits your fishing style. That may end up being a particular type of braid, monofilament or fluorocarbon.  Hooks are, as they say, where the “rubber meets the road,” and choosing the proper size for the fish you pursue is important. Having said that, the relationship between hook size and fish size isn’t necessarily linear. Fly anglers catch some very big tarpon on hooks as small as number 1 or 2. What is critical is the strength of the wire used to construct the hook. The most important consideration when considering hooks is that they are sharp. Most hooks today are chemically sharpened, are extremely sharp out of the package but can become dull with use or contact with boats or bottom. Test the hook regularly to make sure it hasn’t dulled and keep a hook hone handy at all times. This is particularly important when pursuing fish like tarpon with boney mouths. When you fill spools properly, tie proper leaders with tight knots and regularly sharpen hooks, you’ll maximize your time on the water and up your hookup odds!

Reel Time: Passing on the passion

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

Thinking back at the significance fishing and the outdoors has had on my life, I’m constantly reminded of the importance of protecting the resource so future generations have access to the same opportunities we’ve had. That’s why you read so much in this column of the need to get involved in issues revolving around water quality. What’s equally important is how we introduce children to the natural world and fishing.

I was reminded of this last week when I was contacted by Chris Marsh. who is visiting the Island from Atlanta with his wife, Laura, and their two girls, Ruth and Rachel. The girls leave home for college this year and the parents had planned to take them to Montana on a “trip of a lifetime” fishing adventure. When the pandemic changed their plans, they decided to drive to Anna Maria, where they found Heron’s Landing, an accommodation they fell in love with. As so often happens in life, what appeared to be a setback turned into a fantastic adventure for parents and the girls. It began with a memorable afternoon fishing with Captain Logan Bystrom. In Chris’s words, “They now know the real thrill of sportfishing,” after jumping several tarpon and landing two.

Reel Time
Captain Logan Bystrom prepares to release a tarpon as Ruth Marsh looks on. – Rusty Chinnis | Sun

Chris originally called me thinking I was a guide but I was happy to introduce them to Jenny Moore and the Anna Maria Boat Company. The new company is run by Moore and her husband, Captain Justin Moore, who are longtime friends that I knew I could depend on to find a competent guide for the day. Not an easy task during the height of tarpon season. They didn’t disappoint and on Sunday Captain Kyle McWorther, who works with the Moores, introduced them to Anna Maria Sound and our fantastic inshore fishing.

Those first experiences on the water leave indelible memories and it was apparent that Chris and Laura had learned that lesson. His description of introducing the girls to fishing dovetailed with what I consider fundamental to transmitting the love of fishing.

First and foremost, we should strive to make fishing uncomplicated and as much fun as possible. 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 not complicated to learn, are easy to teach children and don’t require expensive equipment. If there’s a cardinal rule to getting kids interested in fishing, it’s to make sure and 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 stealth lesson in responsibility in children. 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 a half-hour 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 fishermen 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 dolphin than fishing, so be sensitive to what’s bringing them pleasure.

It’s also important to emphasize safety, bending down the barbs on fishing hooks 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!

The Marshes started their girls in stocked ponds initially hooking and landing the fish for them. According to Chris Marsh they quickly grew out of that and were fascinated by creatures large and small, including tadpoles, and even seaweed.

Those formative years were apparent when they told him, “Dad, you threw that cast net for hours at a time for us, that must have been so exhausting!”

Take your kids fishing, make it uncomplicated and fun and they’ll learn lessons and have memories that last a lifetime. Captain Logan Bystrom can be reached at 941-713-1265 and at his website. Contact McWorther and the Anna Maria Boat Company at 941-228-8973 and check out their website. Reservations are available at Heron’s Landing by contacting Maureen Kraker at 713-498-3549.

Reel Time: Fly casting fundamentals

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

Teaching fly casting has taught me some valuable lessons. Chief among them is the fact that it’s most often easier to learn from scratch using the fundamentals (physics) of the cast than it is to correct bad habits that have been developed over time. That became apparent to me when I gave lessons to someone who had been fly casting for a long time but who had ingrained, bad techniques. When I showed them how to properly move the rod tip in a straight line to form a “tight” wind penetrating loop they understood the concept immediately. The eye-opener for student and teacher was when they tried to repeat the proper casting stroke and their ingrained bad habit overpowered their new understanding.

This isn’t bad news for long time casters who have been using improper techniques but points out the necessity of practice to “reteach” the brain how to move the rod. The same applies to proficient casters who are learning to cast with their non-dominant hand. Try this and you’ll see what I mean instantly. If you’re a right-handed caster, putting the rod in the left hand is like handing it to another being where the mind knows the cast but the body doesn’t cooperate. The good news is that by learning the fundamentals of the cast and practicing them regularly anyone can become adept.

Besides learning and practicing the “Essentials of Fly Casting” it’s important to realize that there is no right or wrong “casting style.” Casting is governed by physics and there are some essentials that every fly caster must master, no matter what their individual skills or styles. This is the difference between the Art (style) and Science (physics) of the cast. Fly casting is a lifelong learning experience that you can practice at 9 or 90. Different people learn at a different pace. Some people pick up casting quickly and then plateau. Others start slow, but when they finally “get it” they’ve “got it.”  It can be compared to learning how to ride a bike. To become a good caster you need to practice, but that practice will reward you with a lifetime of pleasure and provide the opportunity of the company of good friends.

Fly casting differs from spin or bait casting where the weight of the lure or bait “loads” the rod. The rod then transfers the stored energy of the rod to the lure or bait which carries it to the target. In fly casting, the weight of the line loads the rod and the line takes the leader and flies to the target.

The basic casting stroke consists of the rod being held in the hand at the base of the fingers with the thumb on top of the cork. The stroke is a combination of moves of the wrist, the forearm and the upper arm. In the “ready” position with the thumb on the cork, the wrist is straight and the butt of the rod is at a 45-degree angle to the forearm. The wrist travels from this “straight” position to a 45-degree down angle then returns to the straight position. The forearm and the upper arm complete the motion.

There are five basic movements that make up what is referred to as the “Essentials:”

  1. There must be a pause at the end of each casting stroke, which varies in duration with the amount of line beyond the rod tip. This allows the line to straighten for the next cast.
  2. Slack line should be kept to an absolute minimum. Slack line prevents the rod from loading and applying the proper power to the cast. The most common mistake that creates slack line happens when the rod is started too high, forming a belly in the line between the rod tip and the water. To prevent this, start your cast with the rod tip pointing at the water.
  3. In order to form the most efficient, least air resistant loops and to direct the energy of the cast toward the target, the rod tip must move in a straight line. Practice tracing a horizontal line like a roof eve.
  4. The length of the casting stroke must vary with the amount of line past the rod tip. If you are making a short cast there is only a small amount of line needed (which only weighs a small amount). As the length of line increases, the stroke must be increased to load the rod.
  5. Power must be applied in the proper amount at the proper place in the stroke. In general, the power is applied slowly at first, gradually increasing to a peak at the end of the stroke. There should be a crisp stop at the end of the stroke, forcing the rod to come out of its bend. This is commonly referred to as the “speed-up and stop. In my experience, the only way to master fly casting is to practice on a regular basis. Create a practice schedule that you can stick to. Start by practicing at least three times a week for 10 minutes. Any additional time will, of course, be a bonus but the importance of a regular practice schedule cannot be overemphasized. There are lots of resources on the internet to help you perfect your cast, and lessons with a caster trained by the Fly Fishers International can be invaluable. Some of the best videos to search for online are those by master casters and instructors Joan Wulff and Lefty Kreh. Locally, anglers can research rods and tackle at AMI Outfitters on Anna Maria Island.  I’ve created some lessons and links to good videos I’ve found at my website. Learning and applying the fundamentals of fly casting will help you avoid learning bad habits or help you overcome them!

Reel Time: Orange Hammock Ranch

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

I first heard of Orange Hammock Ranch from Jon Thaxton, a former Sarasota Commissioner and a longtime champion of conservation efforts in southwest Florida. I remember him saying that if this almost 6,000-acre property is preserved, it will represent a crowning achievement in his lifelong efforts. That got my attention as I respect Thaxton, now the Senior Vice President for Investment at the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, for his decades of service to the environment. I was heartened when I learned that in early February, the Florida Cabinet had approved the purchase. Under the terms of the agreement, the state agreed to pay $19.5 million through the Florida Forever program and the Sarasota County-based Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast committed to $1.5 million for a total of $21 million. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has been designated as the managing agency for the property. According to Foundation President Christine Johnson, “Saving Orange Hammock Ranch has been a conservation priority for our community for decades! This property is a breathtaking slice of old Florida and holds the trifecta of land conservation benefits – protecting drinking water, preserving wildlife habitat, and providing exceptional public access.”

Orange Hammock Ranch is located north of Interstate 75 in the city of North Port. Besides the inherent ecological value of the property itself, it is important because It connects RV Griffin Preserve with the Longino Preserve through approximately 6 miles of shared boundaries, and bolsters the 120,000-acre buffer along the Myakka River and the connection between the Myakka and Peace rivers. An estimated 60-75% of the property is wetlands or within a 100-year floodplain. The rainfall that collects on the property feeds Snover Waterway and the Myakkahatchee Creek, both of which are critical sources of North Port’s drinking water. On this property there are hundreds of acres of wetlands intermixed with pine flatwoods, globally-imperiled dry prairie as well as other native habitats. The property is home to quail, indigo snake, the Florida black bear and will be a viable habitat for the Florida panthers that are being bred in the nearby Babcock-Webb Wildlife Management Area.

The importance of purchases like this really hit home when I read a letter written by a 12-year-old neighbor, Brice Claypoole. Brice’s mom, Ali, had read an op-ed on Orange Hammock in a local newspaper by New College Professor Jono Miller and knew Brice would be interested.  Brice loves all things nature and is a familiar face at every Sarasota Bay Watch event. At a recent Sister Keys Invasive Clean-Up, he met Manatee County’s Environmental Programs Manager, Damon Moore. Moore was so impressed with Brice’s enthusiasm that he enlisted him to help with a county restoration project at Coquina Beach. While I correctly view projects like this for the value they represent in the here and now, I was suddenly struck by the importance of these wild places to future generations of Floridians like Brice. Protecting the wild areas of Florida like Orange Hammock Ranch, critically endangered by rampant development, should be a top priority for all Floridians. if we are to assure that children like Brice (and future generations) have the opportunities we’ve had, we need to contribute our time and money to their protection and make sure our legislators know that projects like this are a priority to us. And let us not forget the importance to the water that surrounds us and the fish we pursue!

Reel Time

The quality of our fishing future

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

Fishing and the outdoors experiences that my love for the sport have occasioned have played a pivotal role in my life for almost seven decades. This infatuation has also made me passionate about working to protect the natural world that provides me with sport, inspiration and a desire to see future generations have some of the same opportunities that I’ve had.

That’s why I keep coming back to what I think is a crucial responsibility, being aware of how elected officials voted when it comes to the quality of the air I breathe, the water I drink and the water that the fish I love to pursue swim in. It’s become painfully apparent to me that the politicians we elect all too often have a different agenda than what they present to us when they want our vote. That’s why I have decided that I’m not a Republican or a Democrat. I don’t vote red or blue, liberal or conservative. What I am is an environmental voter.

What does that mean? It means I research how a politician who wants my vote has voted on issues, not what they promise. In this day of the internet, there’s really no excuse for not getting information based on facts instead of innuendo. A word of caution of course. All too often we make the mistake of looking for information that supports views we already hold rather than a search for the facts. Both are available in spades so be selective when choosing your sources and check to make sure they have no underlying (alternative) agenda. Here are a couple of resources you might want to explore.

Florida Conservation Voters has a scorecard that tracks how politicians have voted on important issues like clean water and clean air. Their mission is to elect lawmakers who protect our environment and healthy communities for everyone. Their vision resonates with mine: “Our vision for Florida’s future is one where our environment is recognized as the irreplaceable foundation of our economy, culture, and quality of life. It’s a future where our economic development, energy innovation, and conservation goals align. We envision a government that reflects the people it serves and lawmakers who vigorously fight for policies that protect our environment and create a healthy, sustainable future for all Floridians.”

There are also resources on the internet that, with a little research, will reveal how a senator or representative has voted on varying issues. Check them out at www.senate.gov and www.congress.gov.

Floridians, especially those who are blessed to live on a barrier island, can see firsthand the effects of poor policy and pollution on the waters that surround our homes. If you haven’t noticed, take a look at all the algae that is accumulating in our bays right now. Yes, some of that is a natural occurrence, but personally I’ve never seen so much so early in the season.

Bottom line, do a little homework going forward and see how those who claim to have your interests at heart actually voted and where their true allegiance lies. It’s a vital component of an informed electorate and will affect the quality of life and fishing we are leaving our children, grandchildren and future generations.

Reel Time: The bike angle

Reel Time: The bike angle

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

I like to bike and I love to fish. It occurred to me a long time ago that I might be able to access some great fishing spots by bike. More often than not though, my fishing adventures involved a boat. That is until I started pedaling to Longboat Pass to fish from the bridge and to the bay to explore local public docks. What I discovered was a way to get in some excellent fishing without having to do the work to get a boat in and out of the water, with all that’s involved.

That didn’t keep me from boating, but it opened up a new avenue for getting my fishing fix and a bike ride too. For anglers who don’t have easy access to a boat, a bike can take you to some excellent angling opportunities. A good example is Robinson Preserve in Manatee County. The park is a treasure for walkers, bikers, kayakers and anyone who enjoys the outdoors. It also provides access to Perico Bayou and Tampa Bay. In addition, it also holds a maze of canals that, based on recent observations, hold some pretty terrific fishing. On a bike ride to the park recently, I encountered a number of anglers who had used their bikes to access the bridges that span the preserve’s canals and outlets to Tampa Bay. When I reached a favorite spot for a water break near the bay, I saw two anglers far out on a shallow flat I’ve fished many times from my boat. Nearby, leaning against a picnic table were their two bikes with rod holders. I took some pictures along the shoreline and eventually the two anglers waded to shore nearby. They had experienced a productive morning of fishing, seen no other angers and landed a number of big redfish and trout.

Although it doesn’t take more than a medium-light spinning rod rigged with an artificial lure to get in the game, I saw other bikers transporting live shrimp and even cast nets for catching bait. My preferred rig is an 8-pound spinning outfit or 8-weight fly rod with a 25- or 30-pound leader. I’m confident in the flies, plugs and jigs I fish, so that’s what I use and what I catch fish on. I double my standing line with a Bimini twist or a spider hitch and then tie my leader to the double line with a blood knot. After tying on a fly, top water plug or jig with a Non-Slip Mono Loop, I stick a spool of leader and a couple of extra flies or lures in my pocket and I’m good to go.

This time of the year is perfect for a world of wade fishing that a bike gives access to. All you’ll need is a pair of wading boots or old tennis shoes and a change of pants for the ride home. Bikes can quickly get you to places you’d find hard to reach even by boat. You can plan your outing by consulting access points (Google Maps) online. Then pack your gear and use your bike to explore some local less-accessible fishing gems. Try using your bike to expand your fishing horizon. Whether it’s a quick ride to a local pass or to one of a number of local parks near Anna Maria Island, you’ll be surprised at the opportunities it will open up for you.

Reel Time: The cobia

Reel Time: The cobia

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

As local water temperatures fluctuate between seasons in the spring and fall, savvy anglers know to start looking for cobia in area waters.

Often mistaken for sharks whose shapes and coloration they resemble, cobia are long and streamlined with a broad, flattened head. Their upper body is brown with a dark lateral line that extends through the eye to the tail. The brown fades to white on the belly.

Cobia range up to 6 feet in length and can weigh more than 100 pounds. While most anglers target cobia in the Gulf, cobia range widely throughout local bays as well, particularly near local passes. They spawn in the spring and early summer and feed on crabs, small fish and squid.

Several changes to the management of cobia in state waters in the Gulf of Mexico went into effect Feb. 1. These changes were approved at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) meeting last December.

The changes strive to enhance sustainable management of this fishery and were developed in coordination with anglers, charter captains and the Coastal Conservation Association, which had expressed concern about the fishery. The changes will apply to all state waters north of the Monroe-Collier county line. Those changes include:

  • Making the recreational and commercial bag limits for cobia in Gulf state waters the same by reducing the commercial limit from two to one fish per person.
  • Reducing the recreational and commercial vessel limit in Gulf state waters from six to two cobia per vessel, per day. The 33-inch minimum size limit changed to 36-inch fork measurement in March.

Cobia have a way of surprising anglers, so it’s wise to have a rig ready should you encounter one.

Fly anglers who target cobia opt for at least a 10-weight outfit, although it’s possible to land smaller cobia on lighter outfits. A favorite fly is a black bunny tied to resemble a small eel, one of their favorite foods. Anglers fishing conventional tackle most often use live baitfish and live crabs, another of their favorite foods. Cobia will also hit a variety of plugs and lures that imitate baitfish.

This is the beginning of tarpon season and anglers targeting tarpon should be on the alert for cruising cobia. Last week AMI Outfitters owner Steve Traves anchored his boat and jumped on my bow (following social distancing guidelines) on a sand bar bordering Tampa Bay. It wasn’t long before I spotted a cruising stingray with a nice cobia riding his back. Cobia use rays as camouflage darting off them to eat prey that rays spook. After positioning the boat ahead of the ray, Traves made a cast that landed just in front of the ray. He then stripped it to intercept the two fish and the cobia rushed over and ate the fly. Unfortunately, the cobia came straight at the boat and Traves was unable to set the hook.

Later that day I was anchored up along another edge when a manatee came cruising down the bar with a 30-pound plus cobia “glued” to his back. I made a cast to intercept the cobia but hooked the manatee instead. Fortunately, I was able to pull my anchor and get in front of the manatee, freeing my fly. I was able to get several casts to the cobia but this one wasn’t interested in eating.

Captain Justin Moore has been seeing cobia while tarpon fishing and advises anglers to pay attention to any floating objects like flotsam and buoys as well as structure including markers and artificial reefs. Cobia are a worthy adversary for local anglers. They can show unexpectedly and be hard to target but put up a terrific battle and the smaller ones make great table fare.

Reel Time: For the Birds

Reel Time: For the birds

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

Who hasn’t been stirred by the sight or song of a bird? The haunting sound of a nightingale signaling the arrival of spring, the flamboyant plumage of a spoonbill or egret and the elaborate rituals of herons, terns and other sea birds in breeding season. Have you ever marveled at the graceful flight of a formation of black skimmers, their bills tracing paths across the water’s surface at sunset?  Birds not only inspire and uplift us, they also provide a significant boost to Florida’s economy and are a major reason the state ranks as one as the nation’s top wildlife viewing destinations.

With all that birds provide us, it’s alarming to learn that specieswide, we’ve lost the equivalent of one in four birds in the last 50 years. The major reason is loss of habitat and the seabirds we treasure are particularly vulnerable due to the loss of mangroves for nesting and the practice of many seabirds to lay their eggs and raise their young just above a barrier island’s high-water line.

Birds need our help and there are specific things that anglers and outdoor enthusiasts alike can do to help them. One of the most heartbreaking things anyone can experience is a dead or dying bird garroted in the mangroves by an unsuspecting fisherman’s line. Anglers who fish the coastal waters of Florida will invariably come into contact with the seabirds that inhabit the estuaries of our state. Often that encounter is deadly to seabirds if anglers don’t know the basics of avoiding contact with or caring for hooked birds. Birds live here, it’s their home, and they aid savvy anglers as they search for food. The birds get into trouble when they come in contact with discarded fishing line in the mangroves, or they take line to their roosts after becoming hooked.

The incidence of anglers hooking birds can be reduced or eliminated by following a few simple rules. First, never feed birds. This trains birds to look for a handout and leads them to often unsuspecting anglers. Secondly, while you’re fishing, be aware of birds that might be eyeing your bait or lure. It’s easy to pull it out of harm’s way at the last second before a bird dives on it.
If you do hook a bird make sure that you fight them just like you would a trophy fish to prevent them from breaking the line. Trailing line can be a death sentence for the birds when they return to their roost at night. Care should be taken when handling birds due to their fragile, hollow bones and sharp beaks. First, place a towel over the bird’s head. This will calm them and protect the angler from sharp bills. You can then cautiously remove hooks and unwind line before releasing them.

During nesting season (peaking here May through June) birds are particularly vulnerable, especially those that nest on the beaches of our barrier islands. It’s crucial that humans avoid breeding colonies on public beaches and especially the few places designated as off-limits because of their critical nesting potential. Locally protected areas like Egmont Key and Passage Key are often threatened by unsuspecting and careless beachgoers who endanger eggs and young hatchlings. The birds don’t have a voice and it’s left to those of us who appreciate and benefit from them to be their advocates.

If while fishing you see a hooked or tangled bird in an active rookery, don’t approach them during nesting season. Our well-meaning intentions can cause more harm than good by causing startled young birds to fall from the nest.

Taking care of the environment that feeds our passion is everyone’s responsibility. Follow these simple guidelines: be aware of the presence of seabirds, take care in handling them, and never feed birds. If you see a bird in distress and it’s not nesting season, you can free them. If they swim or fly away on their own that’s all you’ll need to do. If you believe they are too weak to recover on their own, contact one of the local organizations that rescue and rehabilitate sea birds. On Anna Maria Island you can call Wildlife Inc. at 941-778-6324. To our south call Save Our Seabirds on City Island in Sarasota at 941-388-3010. Audubon’s Coastal Island Sanctuaries has an informative web site and can be reached at 813-794-3784. You can also join Sarasota Bay Watch’s Annual Fishing Line Cleanup in the fall.

Birds of all kinds are a critical component and bellwether of a healthy environment. Let’s all work together to create a vibrant and safe place – for the birds.

Reel Time: Tarpon time is coming

Reel Time: Tarpon time is coming

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

The weather hasn’t cooperated in a long time but as soon as it does, I’ll be out hunting tarpon. It’s a little early for the migration but while I’m waiting for the weather to change, I’ll be planning for the season. The boat is getting cleaned up, I just got the trolling motor tuned up and the outboard serviced. I’m rerigging my spin and fly tackle and tying flies in anticipation of one of my favorite times of the year. Tarpon are one of the premier gamefish that swim local waters and a noble adversary on any tackle. The migration gets into full swing during the month of May and generally runs into August and September for die-hard anglers. These fish are a test of any angler and tackle, running to over 200 pounds. The average runs an astounding 80 to 100 pounds.

We are blessed with some of the best tarpon fishing in the world and the local bars and inshore waters host some of the finest fly and spin fishing to be found anywhere. This isn’t a game of numbers and to the anglers who pursue tarpon it’s the hunt and the action that keep them on the bow for six to eight hours in the hot summer sun.

Tackle should match the size of the quarry and most anglers opt for a 20- to 30-pound spin outfit and 11 to 12 weight fly rod, line and reel. A heavy bite tippet is required because of the size of tarpon and their rasp-like mouth. Fly anglers generally use a 60- to 80-pound tippet while spin anglers choose 80- to 100-pound test. While it might seem like a difficult task to land a tarpon on the fly, or any tackle for that matter, anglers who knows the limits of their tackle can actually land a tarpon in a surprisingly short time. The key is to apply maximum pressure from the hookup never letting up. Neophyte anglers have a tendency to “baby” their tarpon in a misguided attempt to land them. The truth is that the longer you fight a tarpon the better chance you have of losing it.

A properly (IGFA approved) tied tarpon leader used by fly fishers usually runs between 10 and 12 feet and is tapered to properly deliver the fly. The leader includes a class tippet (weakest link) from 16 to 20 pounds that is doubled at both ends to soften the (shock) impact to the class tippet and bite tippet. Key to the whole equation is to have a very sharp hook as tarpon have extremely tough mouths.  Conventional leaders vary from angler to angler, but a doubled standing line tied to a leader and then to the bite tippet with a blood knot or Albright Special is recommended.

Flies vary from the classic splayed feather “Keys” style to more complex designs like the “Toad,” and various baitfish imitations. Some fly anglers are not concerned with actually landing a tarpon, preferring to just enjoy the hunt, the hook up and the jumps that usually follow the hook set. They use light bite tippets which allow the tarpon to work through the leader with their abrasive mouths. The key to landing tarpon on the fly is accuracy. The fly must be placed perfectly, move in a precise direction relative to the fish and be at the proper (fishes’) depth. Even when all of these factors come together, there’s still about a 50% chance that the tarpon will reject the fly.

The go-to bait for spin anglers is a live crab. Small blue crabs can be purchased from bait shops and pass crabs can be dipped from the local passes on a falling tide. Other effective baits include pinfish, threadfin herring and pilchards. Artificial lures like the DOA Bait Buster and the 4- and 6-inch shrimp, jigs and even top water plugs can be effective. Patience is a critical factor when fishing for tarpon, especially when fly fishing. The most successful anglers find the edge of a sand bar or other underwater feature that tarpon track, anchor in casting range and wait. Sometimes tarpon come at a steady rate but just as often there are long periods of time when the only thing to look at is the water. This really separates the good anglers from the great anglers. There are times when you need to move but knowing when and where is a skill that is developed and never mastered.

Once set up, the angler must be able to make a 40- to 50-foot cast to a location the size of a dinner plate. Placement of the fly cannot be overemphasized, because tarpon will seldom vary a foot or two from their path to eat a fly. Although there is always the rare exception, a fly must never travel in a path towards the intended target. A tarpon’s prey species wouldn’t survive long if it moved towards its aggressor, and tarpon know it. Besides moving away from the fish, the fly must move at the proper pace, be at the proper depth and never slow down when a tarpon is tracking it. Conversely you can’t move the fly too fast, taking it out of a tarpon’s range. If all this wasn’t demanding enough, once a tarpon decides to eat the fly an angler’s mettle is really tested.

Conventional anglers usually look for rolling fish in the near-shore Gulf and motor well ahead of them to intercept their path. Trolling motors can be effective for following a school in deep water but will spook them in the shallows. One thing that all tarpon anglers should practice is courtesy. Often a boat has been working long and hard to get properly set up for a shot and a boat running up on the fish will spoil the day for everyone. Tarpon are not trout and attempting to raise the rod to set the hook is a cardinal mistake. Fortunately, once a tarpon decides to eat there’s no need to make a lightning-fast hook set. When fly fishing, the right set is called a “strip strike,” which involves letting the line come tight and immediately setting the hook with a combination of the line hand and the rod. Conventional anglers should also have the patience to let the line come tight before attempting to hook the fish. Then the angler must at once work to set the hook in the cement-like jaw while being ready for the fish to bolt away from the boat.

After a fly angler’s initial hook set, attention must go immediately to clearing (getting the loose line off the deck) the line. In most cases the angler has been stripping in line when the fish bites and the hook is set. That line can easily foul on the angler, the rod or the reel. The protocol is to take your attention from the fish to the line at your feet. Hold the rod away from your body and let the excess line pass through your stripping hand in a circle made with the thumb and the forefinger. Once the line is “on the reel” set the hook with several more strip strikes, using the rod. Conventional anglers often use circle hooks which don’t require a hook set. They just need to let the line come tight and enjoy the action. In any case, a tarpon cannot be aware of the angler on the other end until the hook set.
While it’s important to exert maximum pressure on the tarpon during the fight, anglers must yield on jumps. On the jump the standard maneuver is to thrust the rod forward to relieve pressure on the line. This prevents the tarpon from breaking off if it lands on a taught line. This maneuver is known as “bowing to the king.”

It’s customary to start the engine and get as close to the tarpon as possible after the initial and subsequent long runs. This allows the angler to apply maximum pressure. If a tarpon is a hundred yards from the boat, the stretch of the line makes it impossible to apply any real pressure.

If you’re looking for a good jump shot here’s a great tip. When a tarpon makes any long run, motor close to it, applying only enough pressure to make sure the hook doesn’t dislodge. As soon as you are in place, frame the shot you want and then have the angler apply maximum pressure. Most times the tarpon will make a jump that’s close enough to the boat to get the angler and the fish in the shot. It’s not a sure thing, but when it works it can present an awesome photographic opportunity. Finally, don’t try and rush the tarpon when it gets near the end of the fight. Keep the pressure on but don’t clamp down and try to force the fish to the boat. In the end it’s a game of odds. Every time I think I’ve discerned a pattern, the tarpon teach me a new lesson! Good action can be found right through July and beyond for fly anglers while the best month for conventional anglers is generally June. Tarpon fishing is a challenging endeavor, but it’s well worth the effort when you finally get that first scale-rattling jump.

Now repeat after me, “I’ll remember all this, learn it and reread so I don’t make any mistakes.” Good luck with that, but I guarantee you those are some of the most exciting mistakes you’ll ever make.