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Manatee CCA banquet a huge success

Manatee CCA banquet a huge success

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

I attended the 2020 Manatee County Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) banquet at the Manatee County Convention Center in Palmetto on Feb. 27. That night, close to 1,000 anglers and conservationists were in attendance to show their support for one of the CCA’s largest and most active chapters.

It was great to see the commitment local sportsmen have for not only the fish that swim Florida’s salt waters but the habitat that supports them. The fact that this organization had its beginnings right here on Anna Maria Island made the experience all the more satisfying.

The CCA is a non-profit organization with 17 coastal state chapters spanning the Gulf of Mexico, the Atlantic seaboard and the Pacific Northwest. CCA had its beginnings in 1977 after commercial overfishing along the Texas coast decimated redfish and speckled trout populations.

In response, 14 concerned recreational anglers created the Gulf Coast Conservation Association (GCCA) to combat overfishing. The stewardship started with a Save the Redfish campaign, and by 1985, chapters had formed along the Gulf Coast. That year I joined Captain Scott Moore, Cindy McCartney, Captain Jim O’Neill, Pete Turner, Mac Smith and other concerned anglers to form the Manatee Chapter of the then Florida Conservation Association (FCA), which became the state’s fifth chapter. The timing was auspicious as GCCA organizer Bruce Cartwright was in Florida organizing state chapters and helped guide us in absorbing and disseminating the group’s message.

In 1986, FCA successfully intervened in lawsuits filed by commercial interests opposing Spanish mackerel recovery plans establishing the FCA as a force for positive change that would make huge strides toward protecting and enhancing coastal fisheries.

In 1987, the CCA was also successful in stopping purse-seining of spawning redfish in the Gulf of Mexico in response to the “blackened redfish” craze. That year the FCA merged with the Everglades Protection Association and joined with CCA in efforts to bring about a management plan to protect billfish from longline fishing vessels.

In 1988, the FCA won a four-year battle to achieve gamefish status for Florida’s depleted redfish stocks. Redfish became the first species since 1957 to be removed from Florida’s market. That same year, the U.S. Secretary of Commerce signed an FCA-supported management plan for billfish, marking the first time federal authorities have declared a gamefish in federal water.

By the early 90s, the mid-Atlantic region and New England all had active chapters. Washington and Oregon chapters were formed in 2007. The CCA has participated in virtually every national marine fishery debate since 1984. In the federal court system, CCA’s legal defense fund has been used to defend net bans, fight for the implementation of bycatch reduction devices, support pro-fisheries legislation and battle arbitrary no-fishing zones.

Now in the 21st century, the CCA network is engaged in hundreds of local, state and national projects supporting conservation efforts. The CCA has been a strong supporter of Sarasota Bay Watch’s clam restoration project and donated at the recent Scallopalooza Fundraiser to increase the impact of their “A Million Clams in 2020” initiative. CCA funding has initiated scientific studies, funded marine-science scholarships, built artificial reefs, created finfish hatcheries, supported hydrologic and contaminant studies, monitored freshwater inflows, supported local marine law enforcement and much more.

Through broad-based recreational angler support, a strong legal and legislative presence, decades of experience and an unwavering vision for the future of U.S. and global marine resources, the CCA battles for the sustainable health of our coastal fisheries and for recreational anglers’ interests. You can support the Coastal Conservation Association’s mission; join the Manatee Chapter.

Reel Time Scallopalooza It's Clamtastic

Reel Time: Scallopalooza, It’s Clamtastic

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

Sarasota Bay Watch (SBW) held its 10th Annual “Scallopalooza, It’s Clamtastic” fund-raising event at their new venue, Sarasota’s Hyatt Regency Hotel. on Saturday, Feb. 15. The yearly event sold out and exceeded all expectations as close to 450 people showed up to demonstrate their support for the group’s efforts to protect and enhance the health of Sarasota Bay. Attendees from Sarasota and Manatee counties were represented as well as officials from both counties and environmental groups including the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, Mote Scientific Foundation, START, Suncoast Waterkeeper, Longboat Key Turtle Watch, Save Our Seabirds, Coastal Conservation Association, The Gulf Coast Community Foundation, Mote Marine Laboratory, The Gulf Shellfish Institute, Science and Environmental Council of Southwest Florida, New College and Saint Stephen’s just to name a few.

A number of annual attendees commented that they were “blown away” by the outpouring of support for an organization that was formed in 2007 in the aftermath of one of the area’s massive red tide events. SBW’s event coordinator, Ronda Ryan, worked with event planner Laura Detwiler, the SBW board and Scallopalooza Committee Chairs Brian Jung, Al Jeffery, John Ryan and Ernesto Lasso De La Vega to organize an event that had a seasoned activist overheard commenting that SBW was “more than a little found!”

The evening began with live music, an open bar and a huge silent auction including artwork, event tickets and merchandise of every description as participants mingled to share their passion for Sarasota Bay. Event Chair Brian Jung welcomed the crowd and thanked them for their support while keeping everyone apprised of the auction items and encouraging them to visit the tables. John Ryan, a founding member of Sarasota Bay Watch, was next and explained the purpose of the event as well as SBW’s many projects including island cleanups, student educational activities, plans for the future as well as updating participants on the group’s program in progress to introduce 1 million clams into Sarasota Bay in 2020. This effort got a huge boost in 2019 with a $106,000 donation from the Marjory and Charles Barancik Foundation. Jung related the impact of clams on the health of the bay and how funds raised at the event will support those efforts.

In an emotional speech, Sarasota’s Barbara Sucoff, an SBW supporter who learned about the group’s efforts at a “Friend Raiser” event at the VUE condominium with her late husband Jim Ninivaggi, spoke of the legacy he wanted to and did leave supporting SBW’s efforts. WWSB TV’s Channel 7 weatherman Bob Harrigan, one of the area’s most popular and respected broadcasters and the emcee for the live auction gave a rousing speech lauding the group’s efforts and encouraging them to bid on a trip with award-winning local celebrity Captain Scott Moore and a package of premier tickets to the Tampa Bay Bucs football games. Harrigan has been promoting the group’s efforts since the beginning and recounted the segment he did with Sarasota’s Captain Jonnie Walker during SBW’s first-ever Scallop Search in 2008. Moore then took the stage and recounted his life-long love affair with Sarasota Bay and his commitment to protecting it, beginning with the formation of the Manatee County Chapter of the Florida Conservation Association in the 1980s until today. He then proceeded to up his offering from one day to two, offering trips from Sarasota Bay to Charlotte Harbor.

Both auction items were heavily bid on and raised thousands of dollars for the group’s efforts. At press time the totals of the evening’s proceeds that will be put to work in Sarasota Bay were not available but early estimates are that they will far exceed those of previous events.

To get involved with the work SBW is doing to protect Sarasota Bay and support its mission, visit their website. As they say, “A Healthy Bay is Everybody’s Business,” literally and figuratively!

Reel Time: “Fish farm” proposal troubling

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

On Tuesday, Jan. 28, I attended an EPA public comment session at Mote Marine Laboratory. The hearing gave the public an opportunity to speak to a proposed draft permit to test the raising of almaco jacks in a pen anchored in 140 feet of water off the coast of Sarasota.

Kampachi Farm LLC’s project, known as Velella Epsilon, would be the first of its kind in the nearshore Gulf waters. I stayed late to listen to the comments that included close to 70 speakers, each having three minutes to express their opinion. The vast majority spoke against the project, most passionately. Of those that spoke in favor, the majority had an interest in the project, most financially. I too spoke, not against aquaculture in general (although I have some problems here as well) but specifically to locating this project in an area that experiences major harmful algae blooms.

Reel Time
Citizens prepare to address EPA officials presiding over the public comment session at Mote’s WAVE Center. – Rusty Chinnis | Sun

Most of the speakers had similar issues, expressing their skepticism that an operation that concentrates fish (up to 20,000) and the associated waste generated would even be considered in such an area. Then there is the use of antibiotics and other potential issues that might develop with the interaction of farm and native species as well as hurricanes. The operations that feature the technology being considered are generally deployed in ocean waters hundreds of feet deep with better circulation patterns and even those have a spotty environmental record. This one would be in only 140 feet.

By far most objections centered around the possibility that red tide blooms might be exacerbated by the operation. Many also pointed to the fact that, if approved, the technique could be deployed at scale creating even more and larger operations. Most who spoke seemed incredulous that this kind of operation would even be considered given the insults the Gulf has already experienced and experiences on a regular basis such as the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and the Dead Zone at the mouth of the Mississippi River.

Given that it’s possible to do this kind of farming in land-based, closed systems where water is filtered and reused, it seems that this is not a good option. Then there’s the issue of how this is being handled and the review process itself. Justin Bloom of Suncoast Waterkeeper gave a compelling presentation about the legal as well as environmental ramifications surrounding the EPA process and how it’s not being given the review it deserves.

It will be interesting to see how this develops as I’ve heard people state that the project is a “done deal” and the state and the EPA are just going through the motions with the hearings. I can tell you from my experience that the people who cared enough to be there and comment were overwhelmingly against the project. Those of us who live, work and play in and on Suncoast waters should be aware of this and other potential threats to the Gulf and Bay. The outcome will affect the waters that provide us recreational opportunities and enrich our lives, but also our livelihoods, whether we are waterfront restaurant owners or carpenters driving nails in Lakewood Ranch.

Then there’s the biggest question of all, what are we leaving our children and future generations?

Reel Time: Get in on the hot winter action

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

Until recently, Gulf water temperatures have been surprisingly warm. It’s always been typical for a cold front to send water temperatures plummeting, after which a warming trend will send them back into as warm as the mid-70s on the flats. For most anglers, the first cold front of the season means getting out of the water and away from some of the hottest action of the year.

If you think of wade fishing as a summertime activity, you’re missing the boat. Winter wading can be extremely productive and will give you a definitive advantage over your boat-bound comrades. When you get out of the boat and in the fish’s domain in the winter, you gain the same advantages you do in the spring, summer or fall and then some. When the water is cold it is often very clear, and the fish can be very wary. Proper winter wading allows you to keep a low profile and make a stealthy approach while staying warm and dry.

Get in on the hot winter action
Captain Bryon Chamberlin prepares to release a winter red in upper Tampa Bay. – Rusty Chinnis | Sun

When the fish are particularly spooky, I employ another tried and true winter wading technique – standing still! If you find that the fish you’re stalking see you, just before you see them, try this method. Start by locating an area that is holding your quarry. Anchor well away from the action, get out of the boat, and stake out a pothole or sand area. By staying a long cast away, you can easily see the fish when they enter a hole or pass across the white sand bottom. Position yourself off to the side in the grass where you’re less visible, keep a low profile and be still. By just waiting them out, you can target reds, trout and snook as they wander the flat. Don’t make any quick moves, and make your casts low and slow. It takes patience but can be very productive.

If the visibility isn’t great, or you’re fishing early or late, target the edges where grass and sand meet. These sandy areas (the seams) and potholes are perfect ambush spots. Start with presentations about 2 feet outside the sandy area. Make sure you target the deep grassy ends of the potholes. These areas can be very productive and always warrant a couple of casts.

After working the ledges of the holes and the seams, begin casting into the sandy areas. When fly fishing, try a clear sink tip line with a relatively (6-8 foot) short leader. The clear tip allows you to fish the far side of a hole without spooking the fish. If you’re fishing live bait plugs or jigs, work up to the leading edge and then cast well past the hole or seam and skip your bait back into the hole or the edge of the seam.

Over the last two winters, we have been having some excellent success with big trout on cold, low tide mornings. The fish will come into some extremely shallow water to feed, so start shallow and work your way towards the deeper edges. As with other times of the year, stay vigilant for surface action, wakes or feeding birds.

The key to productive and comfortable winter wading is, of course, staying warm. A good pair of waders, wading boots, sweatpants and insulating socks will do the trick. Add a pair of polarized glasses, a hat with a dark under-brim, a wade vest or pack, and you’re in business. Give winter wade fishing a try. It gets you out of the boat, provides some exercise, and some excellent angling opportunities.

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Reel Time: Scallopalooza: It’s Clamtastic!

The solution to climate change

Reel Time: The solution to climate change

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

On Tuesday, Jan. 14, I attended an advance screening of the documentary, “Kiss The Ground,” based on the novel of the same name by Josh Tickell. The screening previewed at the newly remodeled Bishop Museum of Nature and Science, formerly the Bishop Planetarium in downtown Bradenton.

I‘ve anticipated the release of the documentary since I read the novel in 2018 and heard Tickell speak at New College, his alma mater, last year. The movie’s executive producers are Woody Harrelson and Jason Mraz. Kiss The Ground is directed by Tickell and his wife Rebecca. The screening was made possible with the generous support of local philanthropist Elizabeth Moore and her daughter, Grace. The showing began with an introduction by Grace Moore, a millennial, and perfectly set the tone. Moore voiced the challenges her’s and future generations are facing and how the message of the documentary gives them hope.

The biopic makes the compelling and hopeful case (in their words) “how the food we eat can reverse climate change, heal our bodies & ultimately save our world,” examines regenerative agriculture and clarifies the relationship of our current agricultural practices to excess carbon in the atmosphere. I left with a better appreciation of the connection of the health of soil, the plants we eat, our health and ultimately the health of the planet.

While this message has resonated with me since I first read the book, it wasn’t until a few days after the screening that I fully appreciated the connection between what we’re doing locally to protect and enhance local waters and the message of the movie. The excess carbon released by the use of fossil fuels in less than two hundred years that is fueling global warming is also impacting the waters that surround us. It’s estimated that if the oceans hadn’t absorbed much of this excess carbon, temperatures might already have risen much more.

Unfortunately, this comes with some significant downsides to the health of the oceans and their ability to sustain life. This makes a compelling case for protecting and restoring mangroves (which sequester more carbon that an equal area of rain forest), and restoring clams to bay waters (which sequester carbon in their shells). Initiatives like the Sister Keys and Sarasota Bay Watch and their clam restoration project provide ways people can make a difference in their own “backyard.” Since the mitigation effort on the Sister Keys was completed in 2007 there are acres of new mangroves in the created wetlands. Sarasota Bay Watch, thanks to the support of local volunteers, businesses and a generous grant from the Charles and Marjory Barancik Foundation are on track to release 1 million clams into the bay in 2020.

There is no doubt that the challenges that we face are daunting but change is possible and time-critical. “Kiss The Ground” illuminates the stark nature of the problem but provides a hopeful scenario for those that care about and work for future generations. We owe it to those that follow to protect these resources so that they might have some of the same opportunities that we have. I don’t think it’s an overstatement that this rises to the level of a “Moral Obligation.” Change is possible and this book and documentary paint a hopeful solution. All we need to do is make our voices heard and act!

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Reel Time: Scallopalooza, it’s clamtastic

Reel Time: The ups and downs of tides

Reel Time: The ups and downs of tides

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

The only thing I know for sure after almost four decades of fishing area waters is that I’ll never figure it out.

That’s in the context of finding fish and divining the conditions that make them want to eat my flies. That’s a good thing because contrary to what we might think, that would diminish the allure of the sport.

Actually, there are at least two things I know for sure. The other one? Having at least a good working knowledge of the incomprehensible conditions that affect the feeding patterns of fish will definitely up your game.

Paying attention to tides and the movement of water where you fish and wherever you travel will greatly increase your angling odds. Locally you can do that by experience and paying attention. When you travel that’s the advantage of having a professional guide
who’s been there done that. Actually, depending on how much time you have on the water, the same applies locally.

While I always like to follow the axiom, “The best time to go fishing is whenever you can,” understanding and being able to track tidal fluctuations is invaluable. Let’s start with a quick primer.

While there are myriad factors that influence the tides, basically it’s the gravitational pull of the moon on the earth and its oceans that’s the prime driver. This means that the oceans on opposite sides of the earth experience high tides as the water is pulled away from the earth. The other object in the solar system that influences the tide is the sun, which has approximately one half the influence of the moon.

When the sun and the moon line up at the full and new moon, their combined influence
create the greatest pull, creating what is known as spring tides. When the sun and moon are at right angles to each other, during the moon’s first and last quarter, they interfere with each other and we experience weak or neap tides. In addition, the tidal ranges are greater when the moon and sun are at perigee, or closest to the earth.

Wind is another factor that affects tides. In our area a strong east wind can push tides
lower and later, holding up a rising tide. A hard-west wind can do the opposite, pushing
in a rising tide and holding up a falling one.

Experience will teach the angler how to benefit from the myriad tidal dynamics that affect fish and their feeding patterns.

I learned a valuable lesson about tides on trips to the Bahamas in search of bonefish.
My first several trips were planned to coincide with a full or new moon in order to take advantage of the increased feeding activity that generally takes place during these times. Instead, I found that the bonefish I was stalking would disappear into the mangroves as the tide rose, giving me a shorter window to pursue them along the mangrove fringes. Based on that information I planned subsequent trips when neap tides slowed the progress and size of the tide providing many more opportunities for sight fishing.

Just the opposite is often true when I explore local waters. While I still fish whenever I have the opportunity, I target days of extreme high and low tides because I know they stimulate feeding and concentrate fish. Depending on the time of year and the temperature, you can use the tide to take advantage of the season. In the winter when the
waters chill down, I like to seek out locations where a late afternoon falling tide brings warm water off the flats. The holes, slues and channels the water drains into attract gamefish and can provide some excellent action.

When fishing the flats, working from the deep water to shallow on the falling tide and in reverse on the rising tide is a very effective way to target fish. Very low tides (during spring tides) provide an excellent opportunity to scan the flats for channels, slues and holes on the flats where fish congregate. Armed with this knowledge anglers can return when the flats are covered with water and benefit from that awareness.

Tide charts and apps are valuable because the tide can be varying heights depending on whether you’re fishing in the Gulf or far up a bay. Planning your day to take advantage of
these variations can make a real difference in action. No matter what species you target,
you’ll have a better chance at success if you understand and track the tides. They can tell
you where to concentrate your effort and help you avoid other less productive areas.

Pick up a tide chart at your local tackle shop or download one of a number of excellent apps on your smartphone. That way hopefully you’ll have more ups than downs.

Reel Time: We’ll See

Reel Time: We’ll See

Written by Rusty Chinnis on . Posted in Awards, Awards 2020, Outdoors, Reel Time, Special Sections, Third Place.

Recently I was intent on fishing an area that has become one of my favorite haunts.

Unfortunately, when I got there another boat was anchored nearby. As I started working my way towards my intended target yet another boat pulled up behind me intent on heading in the same direction.

Third Place
Light Features
2020

My first reaction? Disappointment crept over me and I was thinking my carefully planned strategy had failed me. Then suddenly I remembered a fable I had read in a book by Zen master Thich Nhat Hahn. In a parable from his book, “The Art of Living,” the poet, global spiritual leader and international peace activist tells the story of a farmer’s son that fell off his horse and broke his leg. His neighbors tell him how unfortunate that is. His response? “We’ll see, we’ll see.”  Two weeks later the military comes to conscript new recruits for war and his son was not taken because of his broken leg. Once again, the neighbors chime in, this time saying how lucky he and his son are. His response, once again is, “We’ll see… we’ll see.”

Suddenly my mindset changed and I saw this as an opportunity to maybe actually benefit from what had initially been my frustration. Although there wasn’t any catching involved, I fished a place close by and discovered some promising areas I had never explored. I’ll definitely return there again as I’ve learned over the years one certain fact about fishing (thank you Captain Scott Moore), “fish move around!” How many times over the years have we as fishermen developed a plan that was altered by factors out of our control? Wind, rain, cold, heat, tides, competition for territory and a hundred other things conspire to alter and sometimes completely destroy a well thought out plan. While it always doesn’t turn out to be advantageous, who hasn’t in hindsight looked and found perceived disruptions to be “blessings in disguise.” Over-optimistic you say? Maybe, but I’d rather look for the proverbial “pony under there somewhere” than let disruption ruin my day.

Don’t get me wrong, I am totally a fan of having a plan for my fishing. I’ll check tides, wind and the myriad of other factors to try and develop a strategy to improve my odds of catching fish. Having said that, it’s good to have a backup plan that includes addressing the actual conditions you find on any given day. Maybe it’s the fact that I’m not really good at finding fish. I jokingly and fully in earnest comment on the fact that fish and I don’t see things alike. The places I find that should hold fish don’t seem to appeal to them.

Then there’s the strategy of being persistent, definitely an advantage as fish get more spread out, pressured and spooky. Another seasoned fishing guide has a saying that resonates with me. Captain Steve Huff, arguably one of the best guides the Florida Keys ever produced, likes to tell anglers who seek his advice, “Pole far enough and the fish will find you.” My advice? Go out with a plan but be willing to make a change. Will that strategy pay off? We’ll see, we’ll see.

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Reel Time: A home away from home

Reel Time: A home away from home

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

It never crossed my mind that I might eventually find a place that would start to feel like a home away from home. For most of my adult life, I have been living and working (the dream) on a barrier island, a destination that many of my clients and friends worked their lives to spend the winter months or a week’s vacation. This has been nirvana for a lifelong angler.

For those of us who are lucky enough to live on the coast of southwest Florida, the seasons and the ability to “get away” were sort of reversed. We lived here and longed to escape the hot summers.

Over the years, trips to the west coast and the mountains of Colorado, Wyoming and Montana provided a reprieve from the heat and some excellent fishing opportunities but always seemed a bit far away. Closer to home the mountains of north Georgia became a regular destination, in part because of the ease of access. We could load suitcases, bikes and fishing rods and be there the same day. After a few years of thinking of buying a second home, we found a place to rent in a unique area that’s becoming a sort of home away from home.

A big part of that “home away from home” feeling was occasioned by the friends we’ve made. Recently I had the pleasure of fishing with a longtime friend, Jimmy Harris, owner of Unicoi Outfitters and connecting and fishing with Captain Rex Gudgel. Gudgel, who hails from Athens, Ga., guided for years at Unicoi Outfitters before moving to Englewood, Fla. where he is an FFI Master Fly Casting Instructor and guide. I had met Gudgel years ago but this was the first time we had a chance to spend time on the water together.

We enjoyed a beautiful morning on the Chattahoochee River at Nacoochee Bend, a private section of river that Unicoi Outfitters manages near their shop in Helen. Everyone caught fish that morning and, like me, enjoyed the camaraderie as much as the fishing. We worked the lower section of the river fishing nymphs under indicators on five-weight fly rods. Harris brought a seven-weight outfit and a large streamer for stripers that have invaded the river in the last few years. As luck would have it, the day started off with Gudgel hooking a striper on the trout rig and Harris catching two rainbow trout on the streamer. We ended the morning’s fishing four hours later, everyone having caught fish and reveling in a cool and relaxing streamside experience.

The waters of North Georgia yield a surprising variety of fishing options for fly and conventional anglers as well. From trout streams to beautiful mountain lakes with striped and largemouth bass, opportunities abound. Now, after years of thinking we wanted to buy a “home away from home,” we’ve decided we can have it both ways. As an old friend said, “You don’t have to own it, you just need to have access.” North Georgia has that feel of a “home away from home” but it’s not an either/or decision. All those other wonderful fishing destinations around the world remain in play.

Today, I’m fishing with Unicoi Outfitter’s managers Wes McElroy and Jake Darling. They’re taking me on a float trip on a lower section of the Chattahoochee for shoal bass. This coming week I hope to fish for stripers on Lake Lanier with Harris. But that’s another story.

If you’re interested in fishing North Georgia, contact Unicoi Outfitters at 706-878-3083 or check out their website. Captain Rex Gudgel guides anglers in Charlotte Harbor as well as helping them to improve their casting. He can be reached at 706-254-3504 or check out his website.

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Reel Time: Spain - Seville and Andalusia

Reel Time: Spain – Seville and Andalusia

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

Our travels in Spain concluded with a trip to Seville located in the southwestern Iberian peninsula on the Guadalquivir River.

Seville is the capital of the autonomous community of Andalusia and is approximately 2,200 years old. The many civilizations that ruled the area over its history left the region with a distinct character, and its large and well-preserved historical center, where we stayed, is rich in reminders of that past.

Over five days we were able to explore the city on foot and visit some of the iconic remnants of the cultures that shaped the city. Over two millennia, the Visigoths, Romans, Moors and Christians shaped and reshaped the region. That diversity created the Seville of today and is reflected in its distinct cuisine as well as iconic structures like the Seville Cathedral and the adjacent Royal Alcazar, which were registered in 1987 by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites.

Reel Time: Spain - Seville and Andalusia
An ornate ceiling in the Alcazar. – Rusty Chinnis | Sun

During our visit to Seville we took the advice of locals to “get lost” in the maze of narrow streets as well as visiting the community of Triana with its heritage of tile making and the Museum of Fine Arts with its wonderful collection of important Spanish artists. While we enjoyed all of Seville’s charms, it was the cuisine and a guided trip to the Royal Alcazar that were the highlights of the visit.

Over several nights we explored local restaurants that featured a wonderful combination of dishes that, combined with their on-signature flavor and ambiance, left a memorable impression.

We visited the Alcazar with a local guide, Andres, who provided us with a delightful introduction to the amazing history and architecture of the Palace. It’s one of the best places to experience the remarkable craftsmanship of the Moors, most of which was replaced by the Christians that captured the city in the 13th century. The Alcazar suffered some of the same fate but fortunately, much of the ornate architecture and art of the Moors was preserved thanks to Peter of Castile, a Spanish king who valued its remarkable design elements. During the tour, Andres provided an engaging, informational and lighthearted look at the Alcazar and its large ornate gardens.

Adjacent to the Alcazar is the Seville Cathedral with its Giralda tower where the hearty explorer can get the best views of the city. The cathedral is the third-largest church and largest Gothic structure in the world. The bell tower was built as the minaret for the Great Mosque of Seville and a renaissance style top was added by the Catholics after the Muslims were expelled from the city.

Our trip to Spain was one of the rare excursions where our expectations were exceeded. The combination of culture, resplendent landscapes, cuisine and the warmth of the people created the kind of memorable experience one is eager to share. Spain is a vibrant modern culture that is moving into the future while protecting its remarkable history.

Reel Time: Spain – Madrid and Toledo

Reel Time: Spain – Madrid and Toledo

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

Spain was never on my list of places to travel. When looking for a new destination to explore, Chris and I settled on Portugal and somehow those plans morphed into an adventure in this small country that at one time dominated the known world.

As I write this, the bells of the Basilica of Santa Maria Del Coro Catholic Church (circa 1774) in San Sebastian are ringing. Many times a day they announce the time and call the faithful to Mass and prayer.

We began our trip in Madrid, the capital of Spain, where we stayed for four days. While we originally only considered Madrid as a central point to begin our stay, it turned out to be a memorable experience. In four days we explored the central city by bike, enjoyed tapas in the Mercado de San Miguel, made an excursion to the nearby city of Toledo and spent a day viewing some of the world’s finest art in the Prado Museum.

Mercado Reel Time
The Mercado San Miguel in Madrid provides an excellent cast of Spanish Tapas. – Rusty Chinnis | Sun

I found out before the trip that my old friend Rallis Papas would be in Madrid on business. Rallis introduced me to some of the city’s highlights, including its world-famous tapas, an appetizer or snack in Spanish cuisine. Spain is famous for its tapas bars, and Madrid has some of the best. That first night I got a terrific introduction to this unique and delicious tradition.

On our first full day in Madrid, we took a guided tour of the city on Ebikes and experienced a side of the city that we would probably have never seen. The excursion started in the Plaza de San Miguel with a ride in the Parque Madrid Rio, a 6-kilometer park along the Manzanares river that was once a busy motorway. That road was relocated underground and resulted in a delightful park with playgrounds, gardens and public walkways. After touring the riverside park, we headed high over the city to the Casa De Campo public park.

“The history of Casa de Campo began with the decision by Philip II to move the Capital (Court) to Madrid. It was declared a Bosque Real (Royal Forest) under Fernando VI. Carlos III gave it a new twist when he introduced livestock and agriculture as one of its purposes, which would be continued by Queen María Cristina. After the proclamation of the Second Republic, the State donated the Casa de Campo to the people of Madrid (May 1, 1931), and it has been open to the public ever since.”

We enjoyed spectacular views of the city from on high and reveled in the cool and dry weather that greeted us in Madrid. The park is accessible by cable car from the city but was closed on the day we visited due to high (and refreshing) winds.

On our second day in Spain, we took a tour from Madrid to Toledo, an ancient hilltop town an hour south of Madrid. Toledo was declared a World Heritage site in 1986 for its extensive monumental and cultural heritage.

Toledo is known as the Imperial City for having been the main venue of the court of Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor, and as the “City of the Three Cultures” for the cultural influences of Christians, Muslims and Jews that are reflected in its history.

After touring the Old Town and the magnificent Cathedral De Toledo, we headed south to an authentic farmstead and estate where we were treated to lunch and a ride through the farm in an open-top 4WD truck. The farm is owned by a Spanish Count and encompasses over 16,000 hectares.

On our last day in Madrid, we took a tour of the world-famous Prado Museum with Jamie, an art historian, who presented a fascinating look at the paintings, the artists, culture and the history of Spain through its art. The tour included an introduction to the paintings of  Francisco de Goya, Spain’s most famous artist.

The Prado houses the world’s largest collection of Goya’s work as well as of Flemish artists including Hieronymus Bosch and his “Garden of Earthly Delights.”  Next week – Basque country and south to Sevilla.

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Reel Time: Get ready for fall

Reel Time: Get ready for fall

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

If I had to pick a least-favorite month for fishing, September would certainly be in the running. This is hurricane season and the height of the dog days of summer. There are a few highlights depending on where you are fishing, but there isn’t much to excite the local angler.

That, thankfully, won’t last long as we can look forward to early fall as a time when Spanish mackerel, little tunny and other pelagic species will be targeting schools of bait along the coast. One of the few bright spots was redfish that formed big spawning schools in area bays in August and September, but I haven’t seen that in many years.

I like to use the days I can’t or don’t want to be on the water to get ready for the fall action to come. That can mean getting the boat ready, checking tackle, tying flies and working on your casting skills so you’ll be ready when the action gets hot. Whether you’re a beginning fly fisher or are a proficient caster, it’s important to be aware of what are commonly known as the essentials of fly casting.

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 a straight position. The forearm and the upper arm complete the motion.

There are five basic movements that make up what we refer 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 in the casting stroke. 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.

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.

One of the best ways for you to master fly casting is to practice on a regular basis. Create a practice schedule that you can stick to. Start by practicing 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 overstated. There are lots of resources on the internet that can help you perfect your cast, but make sure you pick the right source. I suggest the instructional series on YouTube from Orvis and Rio and well-known casters like Lefty Kreh and Joan Wulff.

While there is a ton of content online, there is no substitute for local knowledge. Fly anglers on Anna Maria have a great resource in AMI Outfitters on Pine Avenue. It has a selection of rods and reels for the beginner or the advanced caster and can provide invaluable knowledge on local flies, what is biting and local guides.

We have some great fishing right around the corner. Now is the time to get ready so you can be able to take advantage of the opportunity!

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Reel Time: Scallop Search Aug. 24

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

Sarasota Bay Watch’s annual Scallop Search, its signature and longest-standing event, is slated for Saturday, Aug. 24, at the Sarasota Sailing Squadron on City Island. This free event engages the public in what has been called citizen science because it assists scientists with monitoring the scallops in Sarasota Bay. The search is a boating event, but Sarasota Bay Watch (SBW) will try to place non-boaters on boats when possible.

Over the years this event has been conducted in cooperation with other groups in Tampa Bay, Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound to assess the health of scallops in southwest Florida. This year, Sarasota Bay Watch will also be assessing our local clam population after the successful release of 250,000 clams last year. The bay is still recovering from last year’s devastating red tide, so your participation will help answer the question “How’s our bay today?”

Over the last several years, SBW has gotten invaluable support from The Anna Maria Island Sail and Power Squadron (America’s Boating Club of the Bradenton area). The Squadron’s focus is boating education and civic service to groups like SBW. It is currently creating a life preserver loan program for boaters and conducts vessel safety checks.

Janet Razze, the commander of the group, has organized the squadron and other volunteers to monitor Palma Sola Bay and north Sarasota Bay. Razze and the group begin early, actively looking for scallops and clams in a two- to three-week window before the actual event. This allows more people to be involved as it allows them to work around weather and people’s availability. They then have their data ready to share on the 24th. If you would like to participate with the squadron give Razze a call at 941- 779-5477. Participants will still need to go online to register.

To assess populations, a grid is constructed that covers the bay and volunteers snorkel transects for scallops and clams to document their presence. The Scallop Search was originally initiated with support provided by Tampa Bay Watch. The goal of the event is to monitor and document the health and status of scallops, clams and the bay in general. Data goes to the Florida Wildlife Research Institute.

This event is a perfect family activity. Searching requires swimming and snorkeling abilities. It is done over the grass flats usually in six feet of water or less. There will be a complimentary lunch for volunteers after the search at the Sarasota Sailing Squadron on City Island. This is a No Harvest event.

Participants will need to bring a mask and snorkel, sunscreen, water, and (optional) a weight belt. Fins are helpful, and divers should bring a dive flag if they have one. The only other requirements are good eyes and a great spirit! Registration is required, so go to www.sarasotabaywatch.org for more information.

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Reel Time: Dragonfly on the Soque

Reel Time: Dragonfly on the Soque

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

The mountains of northeast Georgia hold a special appeal for fly fishers and are one of my favorite destinations.

The countryside along the Sautee Valley was a verdant green and veils of mist floated over the rolling foothills as I made my way to Batesville and a rendezvous with my guide, Phil Culver. The early morning air was fragrant with the smell of honeysuckle, privet and wild roses and was, I hoped, an auspicious start to a day of fishing the Soque (pronounced so-qwee) River.

Today Culver was introducing me to a special stretch of the Soque run by Dragonfly, one of the top stretches of the river that regularly yields jaw-dropping double-digit rainbow and brown trout. Dragonfly’s section of the river is one of the South’s best trout fishing destinations, attracting neophyte anglers as well as seasoned fly fishers and past presidents.

We arrived at the river at 8 a.m., donned waders and rigged 5-weight rods for the day’s fishing. After crossing the river on a wooden bridge, we worked our way along a sinuous shoreline that was lined with blooming mountain laurel. After hiking about a quarter of a mile, we entered the river just downstream from a deep seam that undercut a bank and was in deep shade.

Culver carefully fished two small nymphs along the edge of the bank, then drifted them along and under the branch-covered bend. On his third cast he made a quick hook set when his indicator disappeared from the water’s surface and a deep bend in his rod telegraphed that he had a quality fish on.

The rainbow trout revealed its beautiful namesake colors in a jump before making several stubborn attempts to rub the fly free on the bottom. After a number of dogged attempts to lose the fly and two more jumps, we were able to net the trout, take a few quick pictures and release it.

The weather was clear and warm with a bluebird sky and, although the fishing was tough, we were both able to land and release a number of quality fish before we took a break and went to the Batesville Country Store for lunch. One of the pleasures of fishing the Soque is having breakfast before fishing and taking a lunch break at the store. Besides having excellent food, the ambiance fits perfectly with a day on the river.

The afternoon warmed into the 80s, but the temperature along the river was moderated by the shade and the cold flowing water. On days when the fish are not in the mood to bite, having a guide like Culver pays dividends. His 15 years’ experience on the river and a lot of fly changes yielded a number of fish for both of us. When we worked a particular section that he knew held a lot of fish, it would have been easy to doubt him had I not been able to see them with my own eyes. At the end of the day, it was, in a way, even more satisfying to have coaxed a number of fish to the fly when they were not in the mood to feed.

We had been near the end of the season when rising water temperatures prompt owners to begin limiting fishing in order to prevent stressing the big fish. I already have plans to return in October, when cooling waters turn on the trout’s feeding instincts. To experience the fantastic fishing on the Soque contact Phil Culver at 706-768-8922. Check out Dragonfly’s website or call Dave Sutton at 706-768-8800.

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Reel Time: Clear water hides looming problem

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

The red tide is gone! I don’t know anybody that isn’t elated that the most recent harmful algae bloom is absent from local waters. Cross any bridge, look out at the bay and you’ll be convinced that all is well. The water is clear and there are large areas of flats that appear covered with seagrass.

Unfortunately, things are not what they seem. While it’s true that the water in the bay is crystal clear, this same clear water is revealing what may be a “ticking time bomb.” Large areas of Sarasota Bay, even some close to the passes and enjoying daily flushing, are choked with algae. The clear water also affords a look into the bay and my experience over the last few weeks has been discouraging. In areas that are generally flush with mullet, you could sit and count off the minutes without seeing one of the ubiquitous fish jump. There are signs of recovery, as bait enters the bay and mullet are again starting to make an appearance. Still, after dealing with red tide events since the early 80s this is one of the slowest recoveries I can remember.

If there’s a “proverbial” pony anywhere, it’s that people who in the past quickly reverted to the “out of sight, out of mind” school of thought, are asking important questions. When Realtors and developers realize that the price of inaction on water quality incurs a serious cost we may be finally rounding a corner towards awareness.

The first line of defense lies with our local politicians who enact the laws that protect our water, air and land. Let’s not forget that they work for us. Unfortunately, the public, and I include myself, has not been as engaged as they need to be in this decision-making process. Hopefully, that’s changing. Residents of Manatee County need to get behind commissioners who are working to address water quality issues. They are currently tackling the need to establish a dedicated source of funding to improve water quality. Residents are encouraged to learn about this initiative and get involved in assuring that common sense rules, regulations and infrastructure support us economically as well as protecting the quality of life that we enjoy.

Still, with the apparent “new will” and understanding of the problem in Tallahassee, there is resistance to doing the “right thing.” A good example is legislation that Manatee County state Rep. Will Robinson has introduced, with a companion bill by state Sen. Joe Gruders of
Sarasota, to monitor and inspect septic tanks, thought to be a leading problem in water pollution. The bills would require the state health department to identify all onsite systems in the state and compile that information in a database. Beginning in 2022, the bill would require onsite systems to be inspected at least once every five years unless the system is covered by an operating permit.

What appears to be common sense legislation is being intensely lobbied by entities like state restaurant and homeowner associations. The arguments seem to be the same – that the bill would be too expensive and cause economic hardship to the interested parties. What’s missing from this reasoning is the understanding that not addressing these issues will actually be more expensive for those that oppose it, not to mention future generations of Floridians. It’s time that we all take a more proactive role in addressing these critical issues.

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Reel Time: Pothole savvy, Part 2

Reel Time: Pothole savvy, Part 2

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

Last week I wrote about the anatomy of potholes and how to approach them. Depending on conditions, you will want to tailor your strategy when fishing them. When the water is clear enough for you to spot fish, they will often be traveling between holes. When possible, make a cast into the fish’s path with at least a 5-foot lead and let the fly settle to the bottom. As the fish approaches, bump the fly to imitate a baitfish or crustacean that has been surprised. Fish lying right over sand in a pothole are the hardest to make a presentation to. The cast must land far enough away not to be noticed and stripped so the fly doesn’t approach them.

Match flies to whatever forage is most prevalent. Generally speaking, use smaller flies and fish them slower in the winter. In the warmer months, switch to a larger pattern and work it a bit faster. Patterns with lead eyes, like Clousers, are very effective in the winter. In the warmer months try flies that mimic baitfish like the Lefty’s Deceiver, a bend back pattern. Whether you’re fishing from a boat or wading, make an effort to use the elements to your advantage. Keep the sun at your back for the best visibility.

On an incoming tide, fish will naturally stage at the edges of a flat and move into the potholes and slues as the tide rises. If the fish are hard to approach, try stationing yourself in an area where you have a good view of a pothole or series of holes. Stay off to the side in the grass where you’re less visible and keep a low profile.

By staying a long cast away, you can easily see the fish when they enter a hole or pass across the white sandy bottom. By just waiting them out, you can target reds, trout and snook as they wander the flat. It’s important to be able to land the fly line and the fly softly and not rip the line off the water for the next cast. Stand still, be observant and make your casts low and slow. It takes patience but can be very productive.

In most cases, there are few obstructions on a flat allowing you to use a light 6- to 8-weight outfit. Lines and leaders can be varied according to the conditions. On a shallow, clear flat, use a floating line and a long leader. A 12-foot leader with a 30-pound fluorocarbon bite tippet is standard. If the fish are particularly wary, drop down to a 20 or even 15-pound bite tippet. When fishing holes with deeper water, 6 to 8 feet, switching to a sink-tip fly line with a 10-foot leader might be more productive.

Potholes on a flat concentrate fish for fly anglers. They provide cover for predators and a way for them to enter and exit a flat. Learn to fish them according to their unique topography, the time of the year, tides and local conditions, and they’ll consistently provide action to the savvy angler.

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