St. Marks 11/17/06

[tin can]

Launched from the fort around 9:30, ran out the river, and headed east.

The forecast called for northeast winds at 5 to 10. The tide chart called for a water level of 2 feet by 9:45. I got to within sight of the area I wanted to fish by 10:15, and had to stop short. I have not yet figured out how to get the boat across dry bottom. There was no water, but the tide was rising, fast. At around 11:00 the wind shifted to southwest (never came from the east, birddog) and picked up to around 10 to 15. The water surface temp was 58 degrees. I suspect that temp held throughout the water column, as the entire water column was less than 1 foot in the area. However, with the southwest wind, it didn't take long for the water to come in. I fished the grass line and creek mouths for the entire rise, and produced 2 trout, and 4 reds.

Now, all you red fishers, I'm gonna lay it out for you. After fighting the wind through the rise, I ducked into a creek on the slack high, for a little break. There was activity in there. I threw a spoon into the activity, with no results. I put the spoon down and picked up a jig and grub. Hooked up the first cast. I immediately employed the Birddog technique of using my Minn Kota Powerpole. I sat on this one spot, kept throwing the jig, and boated somewhere in the neighborhood of 50 reds, all but one being between 20" and 23". The fish held until the water was low enough to force me out of the creek.

The water has cooled considerably. It's winter time for the fish. Someone will surely ask what color grub. It doesn't matter. The key is a slow presentation. They'll eat anything you throw at them, if they don't have to run it down.

[Redbelly]

thanks tin can for the lesson and advice.

And what a great fishing day!

[Reel Slow]

Great day TC. Kicked our lilly white butts

Like you we found em in the creeks, but singles, not schools

[tin can]

Like you we found em in the creeks, but singles, not schools

I'm goin back today. I'm sure they'll be gone.

This red fishin would be a lot easier if ya didn't have to hunt um every time ya go.

[Chalk]

Awesome day on the pond

[Eerman]

Very nice. Hope they're still there.

[AJ]

50 reds on slack high? Sweet

[Old Dog]

What a day with the reds! Send me your address and I'll send you my clicker, looks like you have more use for it now than I do.
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[birddog]

The forecast called for northeast winds at 5 to 10. .......11:00 the wind shifted to southwest (never came from the east, birddog)

I believe what you said was the forecast was for NW winds and I said betcha it blows out of the NE.

Good job, John. 50 is dang sure getting it done.

[Jumptrout51]

(Nuff said).

[DixieReb]

Great job, John. Bet your arms were tired.

[noleflyfisher]

That is a fine fishing trip for sure.