Probably the number one asked question by other anglers is… “How can I catch more and bigger fish?” I believe what they are really asking is; “Can you help me to become a better angler?”

If there is any truth to the opening statement on fish catching success, it’s that most anglers are catching fewer fish. Most can increase their individual success to or near the top 10 percent by becoming better acquainted with fish habits and fishing methods. As fishing technology continues to develop anglers must continually gain knowledge of these new methods and styles if they want to be in the top percentile.

There is no single answer, piece of writing or book that teaches you the answers. The answers actually come with experience, application, and a true interest in learning to be a better angler. Having been at this fishing game for over 50 years I truly believe that because it’s something that really interests me… I’m still learning.

Here are some ideas that might help you reach your goal of becoming an excellent or at least a better angler. Hopefully, this may impart some wisdom to those who really want to learn and if you stay dedicated your catch ratios should increase.

It’s almost guaranteed however, that many will ignore the advice and choose to continue doing what they’ve always done which is certainly nature’s selection process. Dare to do something different and remember… “If you do what you’ve always done, the same way you’ve always done it you can only expect to get what you always gotten.”

BE COMMITTED
Make a conscious commitment if your plan is becoming a better angler. Every professional excelling in their field has an inner drive that pushes them harder and deeper and this natural progression needs to be in you from the start. Without this inner drive and desire you’re certainly in the majority. Becoming a first-rate angler is a mind set required from the beginning. We’ve all heard that fishing should be fun and enjoyable… not work. However, once you get serious and start thinking about what and why you do things it becomes more fun. Whenever you set out to excel at anything, it’s the “Commitment” that’s the hardest part.

STUDY, EDUCATE AND COMPREHEND
One way anglers can supplement their knowledge of fish and fishing is to assimilate the knowledge and experience of others. Fishing magazine articles, television programs and word-of-mouth can never replace actual experience, but can have an impact on your success. Watching or reading about the techniques of others can often prove successful wherever you fish. Since few in today’s world have opportunity to fish every day, most recreational anglers rely to some degree on information generated by others.

There are thousands of “How To” books and articles written on every angling aspect. When you read them make certain you understand what you’re reading because you will need to apply it later. Angling styles and techniques change daily so don’t cubbyhole yourself into thinking there is only one way to do it. Today’s fishing industry is continually inventing new tackle and ways of catching fish.

FISHING TACKLE
Becoming a better angler is out of the question just by having the latest, greatest and most expensive equipment. Having the most expensive tackle may give others the impression you’re on top of the game when actually you’re the same average angler with thousands of dollars in tackle not used to its fullest. Having the highest quality tackle is great if you can afford it but all that quality fishing tackle is only as good as the person using it. On the other hand, top of the line tackle, in the hands of someone that understands its potential, certainly makes fishing more pleasurable.

There are thousands of people catching hundreds of fish each year on cane poles or the $19.95 rod and reel special because they understand the habits of fish and techniques required to catch them.

WRITE IT DOWN
Always keep a logbook. Keep a small notebook in your tackle box to jot down everything relating to how, when and where you caught fish. Then when you return home, take a moment to record this information in your main logbook. Keeping a good log allows you to duplicate or avoid what you did before and unless you write it down you will forget it.

What information should you keep? Record locations, weather conditions, time of day, moon phase, barometric pressure, wind direction and speed, tide and current data, water depth, ambient temperature, water temperatures, lures or live baits. Also record things like the type of line and leader, how much weight if any, type of hooks, did you use a float, did you chum, the list can be endless but the more you information you have the easier it is to duplicate the good days and avoid the bad ones.

Your logbook should include both good and bad days. Of course the good days are easy to write down however the bad ones can also teach you, so write them down. When reviewing your logbook keep an eye open for developing patterns because they give you the power of prediction, often limiting wasted efforts.

A WORD ABOUT FISHING REPORTS
There are literally thousands of highly regarded fishing reports published everywhere… Do not rely totally on the locations, baits and lures given. No one is going to tell you exactly where or how they caught fish because for some reason that information must be kept a closely guarded secret. It seems to be one of the most protected bits of information anyone can have and is seldom shared publicly. Overall, most fishing reports are general and give you a good starting point.

There is a place where you might pick up some useful information, and that’s your local bait and tackle shop. Not only is it a good place to buy your bait and tackle it a great source of information because every good shop has its finger on the fishing pulse for their area. They know what’s being caught, the general areas, and what baits people are using.

It’s also a great gathering place for anglers willing to tell about their last great exploit and provided you keep you eyes and ears open, they often slip up and reveal exactly where and how the great adventure took place. The idea is… eyes and ears open… mouth closed.

APPTITUDE and PROFICIENCY
Angling is a game of choices. When you’re fishing and not catching, the more alternatives you have the better your chances of finding a solution. Proficiency involves many aspects of the fishing game: fishing line, hooks, weights, lures, baits, reels, rods, casting, and knots. To become a better angler you should develop and aptitude for understanding these aspects. One solution would be becoming a better caster and others might be tying specific knots or cleaning and lubricating your rods and reels.

Casting accuracy and distance in good weather, bad weather, high winds, no wind, over-hand, side-arm, skipping, soft-landing is something you should know. Let’s take accuracy for example; placing the right lure at the right time in a strike zone often results in an instant strike.

Casting distance obviously, means the further the cast the larger the presentation area and the larger the area the better your chances of getting your bait in front of more fish. Casting accuracy means reaching that special spot and catching the fish others cannot reach.

Learn about artificial lures and live bait. Normally, live bait always catches fish; however, learning to use artificial’s pits you against the fish. Learning to fooling a fish into eating a piece of plastic or wood that might or might not resemble its natural food takes skill.

Ask most anglers to show you their tackle box and you’ll be amazed at the number of lures they have and the amazing thing is they only use a third of what they carry. Professionals understand which lures produce and which don’t. Normally, they only carry those baits in the color patterns they know will catch fish. Basically, every seasoned angler or professional has what’s referred to as confidence baits. Whether artificial or live it’s something they know they can catch fish on.

Learning where to fish requires certain skill levels and knowledge of the area. Many fish producing locations are considered challenging because they require you to fish shallow, deep, grassy or heavy structure. People fear these demanding locations because they don’t know how to fish them, are afraid of getting snagged, and losing their tackle. Understand that baitfish like structure and since fish like to eat other fish, it stands to reason they also like structure.

UNDERSTANDING THE WEATHER (Logbook Information)
Weather patterns affect fish, baits, and people. You should begin understanding how the weather affects your specific area, species of fish, water clarity, wind direction, water temperature, tides, current and barometric pressure because they can definitely influence your success or failure.

The moon’s affect on tides and current flows, play an important role since changing depths will move fish and impact bait patterns. Any seasoned tarpon angler will tell you they prefer a strong outgoing rather than a slack tide. Why, because a strong outgoing tide moves bait and moving bait means eating fish.

Wind direction can also play a role in when fish eat. Some areas do not produce as well when winds blow from a particular direction. However, when it blows from another direction it has the ability to disturb certain food sources often congregating bait in those areas.

An important part of catching fish is figuring out when they feed. Prime feeding tables are available in many magazines and theorize feeding times based on moon/sun phases along with barometric pressure changes. While giving a general idea of when fish feed, nothing surpasses practical experience and your logbooks information. Try to fish when baits are readily available, fish are interested in eating, and not six hours later. It’s much better to fish for three hours at the right time than eight hours at the wrong one.

This learning process is ongoing and if you’re interested in being the best you can; stay informed about the latest techniques and products. Nothing works better than practical experience, so as you learn something new put that information to use… go fishing.

The top 10% of today’s anglers are the best not only because they know how to handle a boat or fishing tackle but because they employ all the options and strategies. So, if 10% of the anglers catch 90% of the fish… why not become one the 10% by trying something different.

Every angler’s watched in amazement as bass professionals set the hook. Well it’s a matter of experience that’s taught them just how hard to pull and when to ease off. It has a lot to do with getting used to the feel and knowing when the line reaches its maximum stretch potential. Maximum stretch is primarily a characteristic of monofilament lines as opposed to the new super braids having little or no stretch and virtually no memory. Many of today’s anglers switching to super braid line seldom if ever return to monofilament.

So what’s this got to do with a hook-set? Simply put… with braid you need less effort to set a hook. Because there’s no stretch, when the fish pulls away it almost hooks itself. Saltwater anglers targeting Snook, Redfish, Trout and other inshore species also favor the other characteristics of braid… casting distance, resistance to the suns ultra violet rays, less water drag for a few. But enough about super braid lines.

How hard to pull when setting a hook depends on other factors more than brute strength? Species of fish, fishing line, rod and reel combination, depth of water, type of bait and most important the hook are determining factors in when and how hard. 

An important thing to remember is control your power. Whenever force is applied something must give or break.  Therefore, to hook and land any fish things like line stretch, rods action and flex, fishes size and weight and physical uniqueness their mouth are determining factors in the amount of force.

With so much emphasis being placed on catch and release today’s environmentally conscious anglers are turning to circle hooks. Proven fish friendly, at least in the aspect of throat and gut hooking more fish are released without the high mortality rates often associated with the more conventional J-hook.

Circle hooks are practically fool proof and work whenever a fish takes your bait and swims away. The moment you sense a moving fish immediately start reeling to take up any slack line. Then as the fish applies pressure increase your speed, keep a taught line, and a bent fishing rod. By its inherent design the hook to pulls forward in the mouth and away from the throat. As the point finds the outside of the jaw it turns in and penetrates. No hook set is required! As previously indicated and providing you’re paying attention the hooks always find a way to the outside of the mouth. Fall asleep at the wheel and the fish will still swallow the bait and hook.

Conventional J-hooks are a mainstay in the fishing industry and there is nothing wrong with using them. When use properly especially by seasoned anglers there is an excellent hook-up percentage. However, novice or persons who lack the attention span to quickly detect a strike inevitably allow fish to swallow the bait thereby becoming hooked in the throat or worse. For this reason anglers using circle hooks agree that they do prevent swallowed bait and gut-hooked fish.  They have decreased the catch and release mortality rate significantly which is another sure reason to use circle hooks.

Big fish coupled with big hook sets can inevitably equal lost fish. Not so much because they’re older and smarter as many would believe… it has more to do with physics, like their weight verses rod action, line and the power exerted during a strike. When large fish strike they completely take the bait into their mouth in one quick move. The natural reaction is to jerk back on the rod. Depending on the distance, amount of line between and the fish, and the power of your rod a hard fast snatch could literally snap the rod or break the line. A quick backward swoosh is usually sufficient to force the hook point home.

Large fish also absorb less shock. Whereas smaller ones move or turn in the water during a hook set larger one do not. Due to weight and water resistance big fish move very little during the initial hook set. Consequently if they do not give there’s only one other thing that can… their fleshy tissue and bone.

If you think about how the fish’s mouth looked the last time you removed a hook after a heavy or hard set you’ll most likely remember seeing a large hole torn in the tissue surrounding its mouth. This and any slack line gives them an excellent opportunity to escape by throwing the hook. Remember, hooks work best when they puncture small holes allowing the barb to hold it in place.

In addition to circle hooks you’ll often find responsible anglers using barb-less hooks or bending the barbs down on existing hooks. If for no other reason this facilitates easy removal. But it also requires a softer hook set. A softer set will normally create a smaller hole and forces you to keep the hook in place by keeping a tight line. Obviously, not tearing large holes in their mouths is better for the fish.  

Good hook setting techniques is a matter of trial and error as it relates to each fish you catch. During the critical moments after a fish grabs your bait or the bobber goes under think to yourself about the force required.  Learning to use more controlled pressure should help get more fish to the boat.

The most important part of boating any fish is making sure you release it with as little damage as possible. Practice responsible catch and release.

Anytime several anglers get together the possibility of sharing fishing and adventure stories results in endless hours of quality companionship often developing into lasting friendships. However, pressure to catch fish, inexperience, and overcrowding can and does increase tensions among professional and recreational anglers often undermining what otherwise should be a relaxing fishing trip.

Everyone is guilty! It’s called our tempers and unless you’re an extremely patient person, on daily doses of Valium, you’re likely to lose yours at some time or another. Although not deliberately we’ve all done it, unintentionally cut someone off, take a little too long getting our boat into or out of the water, or getting a little too close to another angler. And when we do, we get that all familiar “hey you idiot” stare or an oratory of verbal batter including profanity regardless of who is near. When this occurs it’s often difficult to maintain a non-confrontational attitude especially when someone’s calling you every name in the book and your nine year daughter and wife are with you.

It’s to your emotional and occasionally physical advantage to ignore further attempts at provocation. In today’s world you’re never sure who you’re dealing with, their mental and emotional capacity or ability to comprehend everyday logic. Just wait till their finished, say you’re sorry and continue your day.

Whenever you engage the situation, more times than not, you will lose your composure, become emotionally involved and give the other person total control of your emotional state. When actions and tempers flair the possibilities exist for that situation to escalate often to a point of physical confrontation. Whenever this happens… no one wins. Always remember… “Never give them control”

Courteousness is necessary both personally and professionally especially since custom and practice play a major role in our everyday social life. These unwritten ways help govern our behavior and conduct as we relate to others. It is this framework that guides our interactions and offers a road map enabling us to avoid uncomfortable and embarrassing situations. A French essayist de Montaigne once quoted. “Courtesy is a science of the highest importance. It’s opening a door that we may derive instruction from the example of others, and at the same time it enables us to benefit by our example“. If there be anything in our character worthy of imitation… let it be Courtesy.”

Common Sense on the other hand is what the world refers to as wisdom, requires little education, but does require the ability to think and reason. Common sense combined with everyday courteousness makes our lives much brighter and more fun.

There’s plenty of water and places to fish. So, if someone’s in the spot you wanted to fish just move on to another one. We’ve all been there traveling long distances to your favorite spot only to find someone sitting right where you wanted to fish. Well that’s the breaks, think positive and consider it an opportunity to find some new places.

However, if it’s absolutely imperative that you fish the same area (which it rarely is) remember to treat the situation like you would like to be treated. Come off plane early, keeping noise and wake to a minimum. When joining others already fishing an area drift, push pole or use your trolling motor to approach. Lower your anchor quietly or better yet… use your Power Pole “Shallow Water Anchor“.

Crowding other anglers, particularly when they’re catching fish is probably the number one source of irritation and arguments than any other fishing protocol violation. We should all understand we cannot expect to fish the most popular spots alone… especially on weekends or holidays. But what we should expect from other anglers is common sense, courtesy and consideration.

I’m often asked how far is far enough away from another boat. Many times it depends on the area but here’s a rule of thumb that’s been around for years. Basically it’s around 100 yards or if your, longest cast will land within the casting range of another boat… “You’re too Close“.

If someone is fishing and blocking the entrance to an area you want to fish… try giving them the courtesy of asking, “Which side they prefer you pass on”.

Fishing guides having limited time to produce for their clients may seem impersonal to certain situations. For most it’s not intentional they’re just busy doing what their clients hired them to do. This doesn’t mean guides have more rights than others and it doesn’t give them the right not to be courteous, not to use common sense or to fish certain areas. Granted they may spend extra time on the water finding fish but that’s all part of it. Just like you seeing them catching fish in a certain area they see you doing the same thing.

Here’s something that to me really makes no sense at all. It’s this thing called “My Fishing Spot”. In my years of fishing I’ve never encountered a sign saying, “This spot belongs to Capt. Jim Redfish or Mr. John Snook.” Just because you caught fish there previously does not mean you own it. While you may have a favorite area believe me it’s far from being unknown especially when others see you catching fish.

In closing let me say that fishing is a great individual and family pastime offering a source of relaxation, entertainment, and most of all fun. Nothing will ruin the day more than getting upset with someone or having them upset with you. Be courteous, use common sense and think before you act. Don’t let an insignificant nothing turn a fishing trip into water rage… after all “It’s only fishing - not life or death”.

They’re usually an angler’s worst nightmare often show up at the worst possible time!

Ever wondered why your fishing reels get backlashes. I thought for years…if you fish… you get them and it was something anglers just lived with. However once you understand the theory behind this hair pulling little aggravation it’s really pretty simple to eliminate.

Bait casters are probably the worse… especially older models. The whole thing starts during a cast when the spool over runs the line. In other words when casting the lures weight plus forward motion causes the spool to spin. As line is pulled off the spool it overcomes its stationary position and natural inertia and begins accelerating. As the lure or bait slows or lands in the water the spool continues spinning at this accelerated speed. Therefore, some type of control is needed is needed to first slow… then stop the spool. If control is not exercised at this point the line continues unraveling causing loops and twist and there it is… a backlash.

The control needed to overcome the spinning spool can be anything from your thumb on older model reels to the latest technology which involves integrated braking systems or adjustable mechanical devices that enable the user to set and control spool speed in relation to lure weight. Some even go so far as manufacturing reels with miniature computer boards that automatically control the spool.

This new technology doesn’t mean reels do it do everything for you. Even with the new controls compensating for spool speed it’s still a mechanical device requiring human input. A good starting point when adjusting bait casters is to begin with a completely rigged rod, reel and the lure you’ll be casting.

Here is the basic setup for spool adjustment:

1.      Gently tighten the adjustment control until the spool does not turn when the release is pushed.

2.      Holding the lure off the ground at about 45 degrees loosen the adjustment control until the lure starts dropping.

3.      Finally, adjust the control to stop the spool as the lure hits the ground.

While this is a good starting point every angler has their own preference depending on their experience. These adjustments aid in preventing backlashes but remember… nothing works like practice.

Spinning tackle is relatively easier. However backlashes do occur, especially using the newer braided lines. Not the over-running spool scenario we’re accustomed on bait casters it’s more a series of twist and loops associated with “loose wraps” on the spool. Avoiding this especially when using braid is fairly straightforward:

Following these few steps should help:

1.      When making your cast… stop the line just as the bait hits the water.

2.      An easy way to do this is placing you index finger on the spool.

3.      Close the bail manually making certain the lines in the line roller.

4.      Finally, always lift the rod to take up any slack before starting to reel.

Using these suggestions should improve your anti-backlash ratio. However, sooner or later you’re going to encounter that dreaded backlash or birds nest as often referred too. To get them out, start by gently pulling on the loops. You’re looking for that specific one that caused this disaster. Continue lightly pulling and untwisting the loops, you’ll soon begin separating and untangling the line. It takes patience but given the cost of braided line a little patience is worth it. Your worse case scenario means cutting the line. However, a simple double Uni-knot gets you back fishing in no time.

Accurate casting using either a bait caster or spinning tackle comes with practice and no one likes to do it. However becoming proficient and consistently placing a lure or bait in an area the size of a basketball takes some effort and doesn’t happen overnight.

Well that’s about it for backlashes hopefully this gives some insight into what causes them and what you can do to correct them.

EVERYONE’S WINTERTIME FAVORITE

It’s almost that time of year when Sea Trout begin showing up and the bite should pick up especially as the water temperatures drop. Here are a few tips for fishing these wintertime favorites as they begin showing up on the inshore flats.

To start let’s go over the rules and regulations for fishing Florida’s Spotted Sea Trout. First, there are closed seasons, size restrictions and daily bag limits. And if that’s not confusing enough there are three separate regions the Northeast, Northwest, and Southern. Not done yet… check this scenario.

It’s important to know where you are when it comes to the zones that separate the regions. Let’s say, you’re fishing an area near a northwest, northeast or southern dividing line. If you launched in a particular region, during an open season, catch and keep Spotted Sea Trout, then venture into a closed season region, you have violated the law and could receive a citation from the Florida Wildlife Commission.

For some reason, which many can’t figure out, those making the rules saw a need for having different regions and bag limits. I’m sure they have pages of justification and studies to back up their decisions. But one might think a little common sense could prevail. Don’t get me wrong I’m not against fishing regulations, in fact I’m a staunch supporter of catch and release and the measures taken to protect our natural resources… but come on, let’s keep it a little simpler.

Since Trout are semi-territorial staying or returning to the same areas provided there is food. A good rule when targeting Trout is locating good grass flats with a sandy or rocky bottom and visible presence of food. Next look for shallow bars or potholes especially those adjacent to deep water drop offs or ledges. Trout love chasing bait into shallow water and attacking it from below. This works in their favor since these shallow areas and potholes act like fish pens where they push the bait up trapping it against the surface.

As you approach a likely area continually scan the water keeping an eye open for feeding fish. If you find them watch closely to determine if they’re randomly feeding on bait schools, attacking anything that moves, or causally picking off strays? All this helps you decide how you’re going to proceed.

Fishing topwater lures is a hoot on tightly grouped feeding fish that normally hit anything that moves. When working a group of actively feeding fish present your lure faster than normal the key being quick, erratic action, and retrieves because it’s now an impulse strike. You want them to strike without getting a good look.

On the other hand, scattered fish feeding over a wide area represents a normal feeding time situation making it a bit tougher, but the results can still be spectacular once you find the key. This condition normally has a number of associated conditions and is usually distinguished by cloud cover or high winds resulting in reduced light and visibility, large amounts of food scattered throughout the area, and rising surface temperatures. As is always the case, these fish have feed for sometime and are likely gorged by the time you find them. Although they’ve have had their fill they may still want some desert. That being the case, now is the time to rethink your presentation.

Instead of fast and erratic it’s time to slow down, which for many is extremely difficult often resulting in frustration. Keep reminding yourself they are highly selective because they are not hungry. Therefore, making the lure look as inviting as possible is the key. For this reason strikes often come when the lure moves slightly after sitting idle or wobbles slowly across the surface. Another method is using subsurface suspending lures or soft plastics rigged to gradually drop. Remember, when using soft plastics almost every strike happens on the fall and is often extremely delicate so unless you’re paying close attention you will miss it.

Trout like many other species stop feeding or move off when pressured, either by boats, anglers or predators and if badly spooked they gone for the day. With the numbers of boats and anglers racing around our waters, you might think fish would become accustomed to the sound of big engines. However depending on the location, water clarity and depth a main engine still startles them, so try approaching the area using your trolling motor or drifting. Always stopping well before your target area; stop on top of the fish and they’re gone. The most common mistake happens when someone carelessly roars into a good area, shuts down the big engine and throws out that 15 lb. anchor. Then they sit there wondering why the fish don’t bite.

Regardless of the conditions just because the bite slows down don’t assume the party’s over. The fish are there, just recovering from their last big feed. Kind of us after a large meal… just can’t get out of the recliner. Enjoy the fact you’re on the water, slow down, relax, pay attention to what you’re doing and fish until the bites resumes. It’s called fishing…not catching.

A Sharp Knife Makes Cleaning Easier & Safer

Everyone knows the best part of fishing is catching… on the other hand, keeping some for dinner means cleaning them. This daunting, messy and sometimes dangerous chore becomes easier with practice and a sharp knife. Ever wonder if our environmental concern actually fueled the practice of “catch and release” or was it just to avoid cleaning fish.

The key opening word here is sharp and like anything, learning to sharpen a favorite knife and keep it sharp takes practice. Contrary to popular belief, sharp knives are safe when used correctly. Consequently, using a dull knife becomes difficult and often dangerous forcing you to push and tear rather than slice.

Everyone owns knives and many came with the preverbal guarantee “a blade so sharp you can shave with it”. However, unless you become skilled at maintaining a proper edge that promised clean shave could quickly turn into, a self-sacrifice.

Thinking back to when a young man, in his thirties, was cleaning a mess of Shell Cracker’s at Pana-Vista Lodge on Lake Panasoffkee. Working diligently, I noticed a man standing nearby watching me clean or as he called it later “butcher some nice fish. Finally, in a voice of desperation he said, “Hold on there son, I can’t watch this any longer.” Taking something wrapped an old tee shirt from his tackle box he said, “Give me that knife”. Instantly, and with the precision of a surgeon, this old fellow sharpened that knife to a razor’s edge. Handing it back he stressed, “Careful now, it is sharp. “Thank you”, I said, taking up where I left off. Continuing on, I thought man what a difference. Leaving for the cabin, I wanted to thank him again, but he was gone.

Hoping to see him again, I kept an eye open toward the dock. By late afternoon I noticed, him and another man sitting near the dock under a giant oak. Thinking here is a chance to learn about sharpening a knife, I headed down. As I approached he looked up, smiled and said, “Eat them fish, yet”. I replied, “Not yet, having them for supper. Don’t want to interrupt anything but I was wondering would you teach me to sharpen a knife”. Looking up, he said, “Be glad to, my friend here and I where just killing some time. Go get that knife; while I get the stone.”

Returning with the knife, I wondered what he meant by stone. I pulled up a chair and in the cool afternoon breeze he began talking about stones, angles, lubricants, and steels”. I thought, this guy knows his stuff and I asked, “How did you learn so much about sharpening knives”. His friend, feet propped up on dock railing, spoke saying, “He’s a butcher for over forty years, now. “Well that explains it,” I said.

As we continued to talking about knives, jobs, fishing, and life, I learned things that I have used throughout the years.

1. Always slice with a knife never push it.
2. Never cut bone, always use a saw or scissors.
3. A knife used for filleting is for filleting only. Never use it for anything else.
4. Keep your knife in a soft cotton cloth rather than plastic or leather sheaths.
5. Protect you Whetstone and Steel.

There is something different about a fish camp on a late spring afternoon. Time slows and the pressure from our everyday grind just seems to stop, for a while anyway. People seem friendlier and willing to share their time with you. This is what I learned when a person shared his time and knowledge with a younger man on a late May afternoon.

Originally, whetstones coming from natural sources; was the best method of sharpening tools. However, over the years many stone mines surrendered their highest quality materials. The scarcity of these high-quality materials lead to lesser quality stones resulting in non-uniform grit or soft spots. Modern technology and man’s ingenuity have introduced artificial materials of varying formulations and quality. With many improvements and ready availability, artificial whetstones are becoming more attractive today.

Whetstones also known as oilstones depending on their composition require the use water or oil to aid the cutting action. Made from diamonds, ceramic, or silicon carbide some have two sides one course the other fine. These two-sided stones enable one stone to satisfy most basic sharpening needs.

If your whetstone requires water remember to soak it with water for several minutes, no bubbles means it’s ready.” A common mistake people make when using a stone is washing off the muddy powder that forms. Leave it because it helps the cutting action. Anything that requires sharpening needs the correct tool and today there are many new ways of sharpening knives. Still, learning to use a stone properly is priceless art.

Next, important part is the angle. Holding the knife to flat and the blade becomes too thin, breaking or rolling. “A good 20-degree angle produces the best edge,” he remarked. If you have, difficulties imagining a 20-degree angle try this tip: Start at 90 degrees, half of ninety is 45 degrees, half of 45 are 22.5, and that is close enough.

Always hold the knife tightly with fingers on top of the blade and not off the edge of the stone. Now draw the blade down and across the stone, like taking a thin slice of ham. Starting with the tip, moving to the middle and then the back take three slices then three more, soon you will feel a burr developing on the opposite side. When you feel this turn the blade over making a few slices on the opposite side until the burr disappears. That is all there is to it.

Steels are used to the edge sharp and in shape and are used when the knife is already sharp. Look at the cutting edge up close and you see a thin sharp bit of metal. Now imagine after using the knife several times that sharp edge begins to roll or fold. When this happens, the knife becomes blunt. Here is where you use a Steel to comb the edge back in line. But, remember Steels do not sharpen they only maintain the edge.”

While digging around a few years ago I came upon several knives belonging to my departed grandfather. I can remember my dad using one in particular to clean fish. Not a fillet knife by today’s standards it still does a great job filleting fish. Its long, thin, cold steel, curved blade holds an edge like nothing I have ever used. Over a decade it has aged well, still cleans fish, and much easier since, I learned to sharpen and keep it sharp.

It’s early in the morning around 6 AM as I quietly coast onto my favorite grass flat and slowly ease the trolling motor into the water. I think to myself, “can’t believe no one else is here”. There is just something mystical yet peaceful about early mornings, grass flats, and a good rod and reel.

The bay water is calm almost like a sheet of glass and perfect for working a topwater lure across some shallow grass potholes. Whenever I pick up my rod it’s become a habit to check the leader and knot before making that first cast. “First fish for a buck” I tell myself as the lure zips away landing softly some seventy-feet away.

Watching intently as the ripples gently disappear, I begin an unhurried retrieve with the competence I’ve used a million times before. I use a “walk-the-dog” retrieve learned years ago fishing large mouths with my dad. This action makes the lure bob back and forth from side to side with each twitch and reel and instinctively pausing to see if something is following. When starting again, keep it very subtle, using light twitches barely making a ripple.

Standing quietly on the bow and thinking I have done this a thousand times and know exactly what to expect”. Never the less, I’m never quite ready for the explosive strikes and adrenaline rush associated with topwater fishing.

That thought barely clears my mind when it happens. Exploding from beneath water like a surfacing submarine on an emergency maneuver, a trophy Snook takes the lure. There was no waiting to feel the fish before setting the hook. The line tightened instantly, the rod bent almost double, and my heart pounded as if running for my life.

A little composure would be nice about now I thought as the drag screamed and the line cutting the water like a blade. This is a big one I thought as I came to the realization that it’s just me and her this morning and no one else. I know I can win this battle I just have to remember everything I’m always teaching others about landing a big fish. You know all those everyday subconscious things that whisk through your mind:

1. Keep the rod tip down avoiding those lure throwing jumps
2. Use the trolling motor to keep her out front
3. Don’t reel against the drag
4. Not too much pressure
5. Did I lock the car?
6. Did I leave the lights on?
7. Did I make the house payment?

Almost as quickly as it started, I sensed tiredness in my opponent as I gained line with each turn of the handle. What seemed like an hour actually took only minutes. Stepping off the bow into the cockpit, I got my first good look at this magnificent fish. With the sun breaking over downtown Tampa, she was resting quietly alongside the boat. No need to lift her into the boat I thought she was tired enough without the added stress. So still in the water she lays as I gently support her from underneath while removing the lure. My hook came out easily because I always bend down the barbs.

Still supporting her and gently holding her bottom lip with my thumb, I stare into those superb brown eyes as she builds strength with every breath. Soon I feel her muscles tense, her tails moving gently back and forth… she’s almost ready. Removing my thumb, she makes a quick thrust and scoots away… a little tired but in good shape.

Standing there alone thinking about this remarkable experience, I glanced around at the marvels of nature and reflecting that the human race can do miraculous things but it took someone or something much greater than us to provided all this.

No photo necessary…the fish gods smiled on me today and I’ll remember this wonderful opportunity to catch such a marvelous fish.

Mornings and times on the water like this make everything worthwhile. I shudder to think that someday this will be lost forever. Our ever-exploding population and quest for the all mighty dollar will ultimately destroy any remaining natural resources we often take for granted. I you do not think it is not already happening … just look around for any virgin waterfront land.

It is everyone’s responsibility to protect these precious and environmentally sensitive natural resources. If we do not accept the task… who will?

In early 2000, President Clinton signed an executive order directing the departments of Commerce and Interior to develop science-based Marine Protected Areas known as M.P.A.’s. While the order did not establish specific funding, it did call for citizen input. As is the case, the ever-vigilant environmental watchdogs immediately took the meaning of citizen input as giving them full authority and immediately began pushing for closure of all recreational and commercial fishing in key areas around the country.

Knowing how fast certain issues become law, we must understand how political and environmental groups often band together to accomplish self-interest agendas. For example, in 2001 California’s Department of Game & Fish effectively disregarded the public comment process, aggressively pushed for, and closed vast areas thereby banning all sport fishing. Protest and lobbying by recreational anglers and fishing organizations voiced their united disapproval both during and after the closure process. Because of the continued public outcry, in January 2002 the California Fish & Game began reformulating their closure maps allowing for broader definitions by opening the public process. Recently, now governor Schwarzenegger rescinded the order.

Although MPA’s currently affect only marine waters, freshwater anglers are not home free. It does not require much stretch of the imagination to see the concept of fishing bans applied to troubled freshwater fisheries.

Marine Protection Area plans are in discussion for several states including Florida and can unfavorably affect the lives of millions of recreational anglers and the economy. Taking the monetary impact or lack thereof by an estimated 44 million anglers, one can easily see the adverse and economic impact. For example, the estimated 12 million saltwater anglers spend annually an estimated $20 Billion dollars on fishing. That is right $20 BILLION… If the politicians we send to Washington are not aware of the tremendous united voice recreational angler embody, they should be. It is every anglers, responsibility to be heard when it comes to protecting our rights and the rights of generations to come. Before you vote, make certain your politician has your interest at hand or ask them why not.

The majority of anglers agree and advocate scientifically based management of our resources. Further, agreeing that protecting our fish and environment are important to providing healthy fish, fisheries and clean water. However, it should come as no surprise to anyone that it should not come at the expense of restricting public access to engage in the sport of fishing. Advocates of no fishing zones often overlook the major difference between a family fishing on holiday and commercial fleets hauling millions of tons daily from our oceans.

Recreational anglers are required to follow strict rules and regulations, which for the most part have proven effective in protecting fish. There are always those with selfish intentions who disregard the rules. Consequently, it becomes our responsibility to police ourselves reporting those individuals to the proper authorities. On the other hand, arbitrarily restricting recreational fishing without scientific proof… indicating recreational sportsmen are causing the problem is ludicrous. Anglers normally support and respect scientifically based closures involving seasons or specified timeframes. However, they will not stand for capricious closures especially when less drastic and equally effective options exist.

Since 2003, Freedom to Fish bills emerged throughout the U.S. in collaborative nationwide campaigns supported by American Sportfishing Association, Recreational Fishing Alliance, and national, state and local fishing organizations. The bills maintain that legislative enactment, protecting our rights to fish are necessary to ensure that both the interests of the fishing public and the interests of the marine environment receive adequate protection. The language acts to prohibit states from closing waters to fishing unless there is a clear indication that recreational fishing is causing specific conservational problems.

Perhaps it is time to take our freedoms seriously speaking up for what we consider important. Hunters took up arms…in a manner of speaking and fought the gun lobbyist for their right to hunt and bear arms. While not blatantly the foremost topic receiving major headlines many anti-fishing groups work silently behind the scenes preparing to spring without warning. We must not become blinded by good intentions, remaining vigilant with regard to the future of MPA’s in Florida.

I personally, will never willingly surrender my firearms. Furthermore I certainly do not intend on giving up my rods and reels because someone without hard scientific data thinks recreational anglers are the problem facing diminishing fish populations. MPA’s seem somewhat redundant when the National Marine Fisheries Service reports only 8 percent of marine fish stocks are actively over fished and most other species are on the road to recovery. According to recent studies, commercial fishing is responsible for 97 percent of all marine fish landed while recreational anglers land 3 percent.

If you do not think, it is coming… look around. Since Nine/Eleven they closed the Mac Dill Air Force Base flats, restricted access waters around many long time fishing locations like Tampa Electric, Florida Power, ports and various other locations. I am all for security, however some common sense goes along way in determining whether someone is fishing or planning to attack a military installation.

When I served in the military, it was called guard duty that protected many governmental installations and security areas. Perhaps the port and power plant could spend some of our money on extra security thereby enabling us to fish the many locations we fished for centuries.

Get involved and protect our “Rights to Fish”.

The popular observation that fish are merely instinct driven dimwits has given way to new theories. Scientists now believe they possess compound mental and cognitive abilities with the capacity to remember. The ability to remember indicates the mental capacity for memory…

Worldwide, scientist doing studies in aquaculture concerning fish behavior are finding them capable of pursuing Machiavellian strategies of manipulation, punishment, and understanding while exhibiting stable communal traditions. The many species that cooperate in recognizing predators and catching food is a good example.

For fish to learn requires retaining an experience, object, event or information. To retain something necessitates the use of “short-term and long-term memory”. Without getting into scientific rhetoric short-term memory stores limited amounts of information for limited periods, roughly 15-30 seconds. This contrasted to long-term memory, where an unlimited amount of information is stored indefinitely and recalled from 30 seconds to decades later. Memory also involves and improves with practice, indicating the presence:

1. Procedural (skill based) or how to do things, forage and catch food
2. Episodic (episodes) or objects, events and good or near fatal experiences. For example, fish quickly retain experiences with predators.
3. Spatial (navigate) learn to map and recognize bottom contours as they move about using the same routes from deep to shallow water and back.
4. Habituation (getting used to) repeatedly hooked on a certain lure or bait adequately reinforces this process.

Had the scientist consulted with any aged or seasoned angler they might have shortened the study. Most would gladly explain that fish must have memories how else could they differentiate between sounds, colors, navigate territorial waters; know what food is, and what is predator. Guess it takes someone with a PhD, Doctor or other scientific title to explain it, before accepted as fact.

Anglers, especially avid ones, understand psychological reasoning leads to understanding. In other words, the behavioral characteristics of fish, how they behave at certain times to certain colors, noise, flash, and water depth involves a learning process. To further what many old-time fisherman have known for years, studies being done in aquaculture offer substantiated proof that fish do react to colors, noise and stimuli indicating the presence of memory.

Which brings us to artificial lures or baits? Those who fish with regularity appreciate this question is not easy to answer. Various reasons indicate fish interpret baits or lures as either food or predator, food if previously eaten and predator if hooked. They may also get used to seeing it, which decreases its effectiveness. Psychologists refer, to this as habituation (requiring memory) or getting used to something.

Understandably, we know fish repeatedly eat and are hooked on the same lures and baits. However, this does not indicate a loss of memory. It can however, indicate a stronger urge to protect its territory or the basic instinct associating hunger with food. Territoriality cases in point would be that of a bedding largemouth bass. Tournament bass anglers often spend hours trying to hook a female bass guarding its bed. Time after time, she removes the lure before finally eating it, probably more through frustration rather than hunger. How about that that monster snook hooked many times previously heads for the mangroves or dock pilings remembering this survival technique means freedom.

Consistently, successful anglers and hunters understand members of our animal world use their senses starting from birth to gather information in relation to their world. However, without a memory all would be useless. The fact they do have memories relates to the principal goals of species survival and becomes and important tool in the evolutionary process.

Usually taken for granted, when given some thought, we soon realize these, marvelous creatures are actually intelligent… often beyond our comprehension. Treat them with the respect they deserve and remember that lifetime-trophy you just landed did not get that big…“Being Stupid”… they just made a mistake.

Growing up in Tampa, as a kid I would spend countless hours fishing or snatch hooking for mullet in the Hillsborough River. Riding my bicycle, at dark to the bridge at Sligh Avenue I would join others fishing the lights from the bridge. I especially enjoyed watching these anglers with long cane poles catching snook. Using a long, powerful, cane pole, rigged with 36 inches of heavy braid line, and a Dalton Special they leaned over the bridge railing and worked a figure 8-pattern around the pilings.

Never a bashful kid and always inquisitive, I asked, this tall, lean fellow with a scraggly beard, named Chuck, if he would teach me to fish that way. Hauling a nice fish over the rail he replied, “Sure, do you have a pole?” “No,” I replied, “But I will tomorrow, can you help me rig it?” ‘Yea, I’ll help you it shouldn’t take long to get you set up.” Chuck seemed to catch more fish so I figured, I might as well learn from the best. Besides, he always kidded me saying, “Boy, you can’t catch anything with that snatch hook.” However, leaving the bridge with four or five mullet each night I soon made him a believer.

The following day after school, I went to my neighbor Mr. Davis. A unique man who loved fishing Mr. Davis made his own cane poles from bamboo growing in his yard and had just the ticket. Handing me the perfect cane pole, he yelled, “Save some for me”, as I crossed the street. Later, when dad came home from work, he gave me some heavy Dacron line and an old Dalton Silver Flash lure.

Unable to wait, I headed to the bridge early. Chuck was already there and together we rigged my outfit. He told me to hang over the rail and work the lure like him. It took some practice but watching him, I quickly got the hang of it. After awhile, I realized why he often sat down, leaned against the concrete, and smoked a cigarette. This leaning over the rail kills your back.

Sitting together one night, I asked, “What do they call this kind of fishing.” He looked over saying, “Snook.” I retorted with, “No, I mean”… then smiling he said, “I know what you mean kid, we call it “swishing.” The name fit because that is what you did… swish the lure. Soon we started catching fish, laughing together and having a ball… night fishing for Snook. Occasionally, I think back to those years, the good times and wonder what became of the Chuck’s in our lives who took time to teach us.

Regardless of the name, it was and probably still is an effective way to catch snook at night. “Swishing” a simple technique requiring inexpensive tackle, some back muscles and a willingness to try something different. Just bend over a bridge railing, point the pole down toward the water and work the lure around the pilings and fenders.

I cannot remember the last time I saw anyone swishing from a bridge. However, because they are not bridge fishing does not mean they are not fishing at night. Many choose the nighttime especially during the hot Florida summers. Those doing the night thing have stumbled on something great, that others may never experience.

So, what is night fishing and where do you fish? Simply, it is fishing in the dark, mostly around structure and docks with lights. Many docks have security lights, which draw bait and bait draws fish. Inter-coastal bridges and docks also create a tidal eddy, congregate baits, and provide easy meals for Snook, Reds, Trout, Sheepshead, or just about anything, that swims.

Fishing at night requires planning, so never load up without being prepared… remember everything looks different at night.

1. Learn the area during daylight
2. Identify shallow areas and obstructions
3. Know which canals and channels lead where
4. Use a GPS whenever possible

Here is another tip that works with a GPS. These units feature something called “Trail” that leaves a start to finish line on your map. Whenever you plan at night trip, use the trial feature during the day marking the areas you intend to fish. Then when you return at dark… just follow the trails.

Night fishing is exciting with strikes coming hard and fast. Needing every advantage, your tackle needs enough power to turn fish heading for cover. Many anglers often choose medium to heavy spinning or bait casting tackle rigged with braid ranging from 30 to 40 pound on spinning reels and 50 to 65 pound on baitcasters with 12 to 14 inches of 30 to 40 pound fluorocarbon leader. For added excitement try artificial lures especially topwater and shallow divers, take more than one because you will lose some before it is over.

The optimum word for night fishing is… “Quiet”!

Nighttime is the quiet, pristine part of the day with almost everything resting or sleeping. Fish holding to docks and bridges become acclimated to this fact and sudden noises or commotion will send them running.

Study your targets for shadows in and around lighted areas, you often see fish darting in and out feeding on passing bait. Gently make your approach using a trolling motor, drifting or poling into position and remember not to close just within casting range. Patience is an asset giving you time to identify feeding patterns and current direction. Always present your bait or lure in the direction of the current since fish face current and anything coming from behind can scare them.

Here is a final thought on night fishing especially around residential docks. “Courtesy and Respect for others and their property”… Not everyone is nocturnal staying up all hours of the night. Remember, folks are sleeping and probably could care less that you caught a 20-pound snook, keep the cheering and hoorays down. Quietly take your photos, return it to the water and relish the memories.