Capt. Wayne Emery and I had a police escort offshore fishing on Tuesday. James Smith, Rocky Face, GA and Pat Hayes, Dalton, GA secured us out to 65. They deputized Wayne and I at sea and like a well oiled SWAT team, we captured a mad gang of gag grouper and a couple of outlaw red grouper. The fish werent reluctant to ambush live baits or steal our frozen sardines. I dont know if we managed to reduce their stress level but Im sure they had a good time.
Anyway, this weekend produced some fine catches of fish. Capt. Wayne Emery, Outta Here charters (352-498-2493), took folks deep (95) on Saturday to bring in a fine catch of red snapper, truck size red grouper and amberjack. Taking that as an inspiration, I took Richard Taylor, his dad Dick, Robert Farris and his dad Floyd out to 92 on Sunday. Floyd won bragging rights with a 17.5 lb gag. Richard got the truck award with a 18 lb red grouper. Robert and Dick pitched in to produce an excellent box of fish. Everyone had a ball which made the two and half hour ride in pass quickly. Of interest to small boaters is that we picked up four grouper, one of which a 24 keeper, free-lining pinfish in 15 of water.
Kingfish are still prowling the nearshore and offshore waters. Haunting the bait pods swimming over hard bottom areas. Trolling is working for some kings but the best bet is free-lining live or dead baits off the stern while bottom fishing. When the reels squeals off time stands still. The FDA should conduct a series of test to determine if fishing is as addictive as cocaine. I know it keeps me awake at night, consumes my thoughts, and if I dont do it, I go through such bad moods swings my wife sends me away for professional help on the boat.
Trout fishing remains stable as ever; however, fishermen that believe in mobility are doing better than those that stay longer in one place. A good strategy is to take 10 to 20 cast on one spot and if that doesnt put a keeper in the box move a little distance. Remember, to change water depth when you move.
I hope yall had as good a weekend as I did. Im thankful that the weather was fantastic but more thankful for the men and women who have defended and are defending our great nation. Happy Memorial Day!
