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 Recently, now governor Schwarzenegger rescinded the order.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 somewhat intelligent… often beyond our comprehension. Treat them with the respect 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.

Anglers in the U.S. and around the world have their own names for different species of fish. However, while many different species having individual scientific names may belong to the same family, Cobia… scientific name (Rachycentron Canadum) are the only living species in their family (Rachycentridae) and have no close relatives. Highly migratory and living at least 10 years Cobia sometimes reach 15 years of age.

They are open-water fish and found almost worldwide in tropical, subtropical and warm temperate waters. Orienting themselves around buoys, pilings, markers, sea turtles, manatees or almost any floating object they appear attracted to noise. Ranging from inshore bays, waterways, estuaries to open seas and sometimes spotted in waters 4,000 feet deep. Their flat heads, protruding lower jaw, cylindrical brown bodies, faint dark lateral stripe and a whitish belly make them easily identifiable. Resembling a shark when viewed from above, they actually look similar to a small brown torpedo.

A Research Laboratory in Mississippi tagged and released over 10,000 Cobia to study their migratory habits. Results indicate they are highly migratory, often traveling hundreds of miles in short periods. The longest travel distance recorded was 1,300 nautical miles. A fish tagged off the Chandeleur Islands near Louisiana was recaptured 2 ½ years later off South Carolina. Two other Cobia’s traveled more than 1,200 miles. One tagged off Pensacola Beach, Florida then recaptured off South Carolina. The other tagged off Louisiana and recaptured 238 days later in Daytona Beach, Florida. One record holding sprinter tagged at Port Canaveral, Florida traveled 700 miles arriving in Aplachee Bay, Florida in only 46 days. This speedster averaged more than 15 miles a day.

Not all Cobia migrate. Verified by more research indicates some tagged in the northern Gulf of Mexico elected to stay put during the colder months but at depths to 100 feet. Others seem content stay in certain areas year round, often seeking winter warmth near power plants.

Aggressive opportunistic feeders, Cobia chase food from the surface to the bottom eating just about anything. However, in a study conducted at Chesapeake Bay researchers examining the stomachs of 78 Cobia they found 28 different species of animals. Swimming crabs were by far number one. This leads us to the conclusion while eating other things Cobia probably prefer swimming crabs as their first choice, particularly in Chesapeake Bay.

Because of their meat quality and the fact, they possess a tremendous growth rate Cobia often gain up to 13 lbs per year. This makes them an ideal species for aquaculture. Although commercial production has only recently begun in the west, it has a long history in Asia and especially Taiwan and Vietnam.

Now we know what a Cobia is and a little more about them. So, how do we catch them? The IGFA-All-Tackle world record Cobia weighed 135 lbs. 9 oz. caught on July 9, 1985 by Robert Goulding in Shark Bay, Australia. The Florida State Record is 103 lbs 12 ounces.

Indisputably a rough and ready fighter, when hooked Cobia considered by some to be one terrific sport-fish also offers excellent eating. Favorite spots are channels, deep holes in bays and the water around floating and stationary objects like buoys, pilings, and wrecks. Inshore buoys, beacons and markers are excellent places to catch cobia and an occasional Tripletail.

Unquestionably, when Cobia fishing what is working this time may not work the next. Therefore, some diversity is often the key to your success. Since Cobia will strike a variety of baits, in all shapes and sizes not sticking with one lure, bait or tactic increases, your hook-up percentages From studies, we know they prefer eating crabs, eels, shrimp and small fishes. Therefore, when using natural baits take an assortment, if using artificial lures try to match the natural forage. Nevertheless, when presented properly a hungry fish will strike almost anything tossed in its direction

You can catch Cobia year round in Florida but probably the easiest time is during the November through February migratory runs up the coast. During cold months and ranging in size from small to 85 lbs, they stack up at many power plants’ warm water discharges. Often catching a ride with other sea creatures you will see them trailing along with large rays, sea turtles, and manatees waiting for an easy meal scattered by the large creatures.

Sight fishing these guy’s makes for some very exciting time whether around warm water outflows or markers, boats, barges, floating debris, buoys, or anything that holds bait and provides shade and cover. When sight fishing, you need good polarized sunglasses like and a medium to heavy spinning combo spooled with 20-30 lb. Power Pro. These fish can wreak serious havoc on light tackle. Once located, a free lined crab, greenback, thread fin, pin fish or an artificial lure fish cast in front of them usually result in a hookup.

Another method is using a heavy jig in the place of bait. Drop it to the bottom and briskly work it in a jerking upward fashion using a stiff rod while someone maneuvers the boat at idle speed around structure.

Landing a Cobia usually requires more than a one attempt; inevitably, you will get it close to the boat only to watch it sprint away. So whenever possible use a landing net or gaff. In addition, remembering this safety tip regarding a green fish. The term “green fish” means one that is not tired and still fighting. Extremely powerful, these fish will thrash violently about often causing damage to your boat, or serious injury you or your passengers. A Cobia has 8 to 10 dangerously sharp spines located in front of the dorsal fin. At all, cost, avoid these spike-like projections when landing, handling or unhooking a Cobia. You may not see them at first because of the fish’s ability to retract them inconspicuously below the skin. Then when threatened or agitated, these dorsal spines defensively stand erect, ready to cut and gouge anything in their path. Many anglers found this out the hard way.

Prized catches in many ways, Cobia offer the excitement of a hard fought battle and a wonderful texture and taste. With its firm white flesh, it is excellent baked or cooked on the grille. When smoked it makes one of the best fish spreads you will ever eat.

If you have never fished for Cobia, you are missing some real rod bending action, fishing excitement and a great meal. Try it you will not be disappointed.

The sun’s first rays are cresting over the mangroves as the morning sky begins brightening. The trolling motors on low as you and your friend ease quietly across a broken-bottom flat. Expectantly, you toss that favorite MirrOLure Top-Dog, making precision cast into each pothole. You know they’re out there, like any experienced angler you can almost smell em’. With each cast, you conscientiously recall everything you know about top water lures, like not setting the hook until you feel the fish, etc. Suddenly it happens… the water explodes with the ferocity that only trophy Snook produce. You feel the pull, set the hook and shout to your friend, “Fish On”. Expectedly, you lose about 35 or 40 yards of line, your heart pounds, your pulse races… you can hardly catch you breath. “Look at her go”, you shout, trying to out guess her next move. Try to it from jumping you lower the rod tip to keep her in the water. After what seems like an eternity in an excitable voice you say, “She’s beginning to tire, I’m getting some line back… are you ready with the net?” Your mind races and you think, just a little longer… don’t horse it… keep the line tight… seems like a million things you’re trying to remember. Then as quickly as it started, she is in the net. For the first time, you relax your shoulders, catch your breath, and realize what a trophy fish you just caught.

Composure returning, you remark, “We need some pictures, no one will believe us without them, let me find the camera”. After several minutes of rummaging around, you remember, it’s in a box under the bow. “Sliding your hand into the gills you lift the fish from the net holding it vertically. After several photos, your friend says, “Let me get a photo holding it.” You lay the fish back in the net, and slid your fingers out of the gills. Your partner slides his in and again poses with the fish held vertically. After a few more photo’s he returns it to the net.

“Is it big enough to keep?” says your friend. You reply,”Looks too big but let’s measure to be sure.” Again sliding your hand into the gills, you lift the fish, lay it on the measuring board and align the front lip and the tail. “Yep! It’s too long, better put it back to fight another day.” With that statement, you toss the fish back into the water, watching as it slowly swims away toward the bottom.

“Man! That was fun, too bad it was too long to keep, but we’re about catch and release anyway” they both remark, proud of seeing it slowly swim away.

Whenever asked, these anglers, like others are quick to say they religiously practice catch and release. Actually, what these anglers released was a dead fish.

Here is the crux of the situation. Always be prepared to quickly release any fish, unless you plan to keep some for dinner. In that case, only take enough for the intended meal. Understandably, fish do not freeze well, get freezer burned and ultimately end up in the trash. If you like fish, there is nothing like a piece of fresh fish to satisfy the appetite. However, failing to preserve a wonderful resource, like fish, we could end up eating beans and calling it fish.

Fishing is a great pastime and people spend countless hours and energy learning the skills necessary to catch them. However, overlook learning how to preserve them. Every year the number of people turning to fishing for entertainment escalates, so it is important that we remember there are only so many fish and to preserve them we must educate ourselves. No one deliberately sets out to kill them unless they intend to eat a few and no one purposely set out to kill a trophy. It usually happens through ignorance of how to fight, handle and release them alive. “Alive” being the optimum word means, according to Webster’s: “being alive, not dead, still in existence”. Just because it swam away doesn’t mean it will survive.

Studies conducted at the Queen’s University in Ontario demonstrated the mortality rate rose significantly after prolonged exposure to air, especially after the stress of capture. Essentially, 28% or 3 out of 10, fish released after 60 seconds of exposure lived; the other 72% died within 12 hours. Exposure for 30 seconds increased the survival rate to 6 out of 10 and fish stressed but not exposed to air increased by a substantial margin of 9 out of 10. Their mortality relates directly to gill damage suffered from exposure to air.

This damage is avoidable by leaving fish in the water. If netting becomes necessary, leave it and the fish in the water while removing the hook. When used correctly, a fish dehooker tool is another alternative, which releases fish in only seconds.

Another contributing factor is fatigue and over-stress caused by light tackle. Using tackle, to deliberately, extend the battle is signing a death warrant for the fish. Light tackle can mean anything exerting undue stress by intentionally extending the fight. Do not assume light tackle means only fly anglers it doesn’t because most match their tackle to the target. On the other hand, don’t get the impression you need 4/0 tackle to save Snook, Redfish and Trout… some common sense and practical thinking should dictate the requirements.

Like our two anglers in the beginning, without that photograph… no one will believe you. Here’s what to do… be prepared. Have the camera ready, as the fish comes alongside have someone prepared to take the photo. If getting that special shot requires lifting the fish, do it gently, using wet hands and never holding them vertically. One or two shots should take no longer that a couple of seconds. When returning it to the water never through it back hoping for the best. Always place it in the water, revive as necessary and watch as it swims away.

There are times when good intentions and efforts for a safe release fail, especially during the warmer months. Now you face the decision of whether to keep it for dinner or return it to the food chain. If you keep, make certain it’s within the legal limits. Because it died, does not make it legal and everyone knows the reasons why.

When good fortune smiles and you catch that trophy fish… take a moment to consider how long it took to reach that size and how long it will take to replace it. It might effect how you think and handle a wonderful opportunity that came your way.

Understanding water temperature is possibly the single most significant matter between fishing and catching. Appreciation of temperature and its affect on fish can make your angling life simpler.

Fish are cold-blooded or presumed cold-blooded. Then again, like most creatures they do produce limited forms of metabolic heat derived from oxidation or burning of food. So if they produce heat why are they cold-blooded? Cold-blooded means no way of controlling the body temperature, which is dependent on surrounding environments. To clarify means knowing how their circulatory system operates. A very simple system, it circulates blood, through a two-chamber, single pump heart, carrying blood and oxygen to and from the gills. When you consider that blood passing through gills, which is open to external temperatures it is easy to grasp the cold-blooded concept. Any heat whether metabolic or otherwise rapidly dissipates as it enters and leaves the gills. This explains why fish feel cold to the touch them.

Although we consider fish as cold-blooded, there are some exceptions. Tuna, billfish, and some sharks use a system of parallel blood vessels named countercurrent heat exchange, which operates with remarkable efficiency. Because veins run close together, it allows the transfer of heat from one to the other. In other words, veins carrying warm blood to the gills, transfer heat to veins returning with cool blood. This remarkable system allows otherwise lost heat to remain within the body. Large muscles like those of Tuna require heat to function effectively. Tuna are a prime example of countercurrent heat exchange used so effectively you could refer to them as warm-blooded. Their semi-constant body temperature allows faster muscle contraction, which increases speed thus enabling them to catch food, and escape danger.

Bodily functions in cold-blooded fish are temperature dependent and being unable to control temperature, any changes, especially sudden affect their appetite, heart rate and respiration. To control unbearable water temperatures fish have but one alternative move to more comfortable surroundings.

Temperature changes normally take place gradually allowing fish time to adapt. However, severe fronts can force rapid drops or rises, thereby initiating uncomfortable and stressful conditions. Humans are no exception as uncomfortable circumstances often influence our activities or patterns of behavior. Subsequently when fish become uncomfortable, they too change and may stop eating until acclimatized, move to tolerable temperatures, or become lethargic transitioning into a survival mode.

The metabolic processes increase as water warms and decreases as it cools. A 10 to 18 degree rise in water temperature causes metabolic rates to double often affecting feeding and digestion processes. However, extremes on either side can be devastating. Water that is too cold or too hot has a direct correlation to oxygen levels. In most cases, cold water slows them down and warm water speeds them up but only to a point. Rapidly fluctuating water temperatures frequently impair breathing consequently; oxygen rich waters with steady temperatures are more comfortable. Occasionally they instinctively move away from a comfort zone to feed provided they can return. Clearly, fish are appreciably in touch with their surrounding especially temperature. In addition, the more you learn about their preferences, the more success you enjoy.

Most creatures hot or cold-blooded have comfort ranges for the simple reason… temperature affects everything. Since improving your catch ratio which is often the discussion among anglers it’s important you become skilled at reading the water; along with understanding temperature, habitats, and how they affect behavior patterns, that is all it is, just discussion.

Today’s electronic packages usually include provisions to monitor horizontal surface and often vertical temperature readings. Understandably, many anglers cannot afford these pricey tools. Here is an easy solution if you are not equipped with electronics, a simple everyday thermometer will suffice simply attach it to a string or secure it inside your live well.

Highly regarded lines of attack to becoming a better catcher are research and understanding. Gain knowledge of your preferred species temperature ranges, habitat, then study their feeding patterns. Remember, education should consist of a desire for knowledge raising an individual to a higher level of consciousness and comprehension for those things desired.

Here are a couple of closing thoughts to ponder when the fish are not biting.

1. They call it “fishing not catching,” becoming a better catcher means research, study, and practice. There are no free rides.
2. Temperature has a direct influence on the comfort level of fish and “Happy Fish… Make Happy Anglers.”

An old Chinese Proverb once read, “A single conversation with a wise man is better than ten years of study, so take time to learn something new.

Knowledge to the mind is what exercise is to the body. Generally, people underestimate their capacity to think, learn, and shape their own futures while others still determine their lives by chance and circumstance. Living in democratic society with the ability to make our own choices we are free to choose our own direction and must believe our futures are in our own hands. Consequently, we must accept responsibility for our lives, achievements, and failures. Those applying dedication, determination, and perseverance to their life will ultimately determine their own successes and failures.

Recreational anglers, tournament anglers, hunters and outdoors men interested in attaining the pinnacle of success must set goals and devote enough time researching, reading, and learning new techniques to obtain those goals. Failure to or the unwillingness to educate ourselves often prevent people from reaching higher levels of achievement.

Many seasoned anglers get the idea they know everything especially when it comes to fishing. They have the boat, tackle and plenty of experience but when it comes to knowing everything remember, there’s always room for improvement.

Here’s a story of how learned and gained knowledge from my experience with a stranger at the Clearwater, Florida boat ramp. The experience started on a negative note but ended very positive, this story and conversation with an old angler was worth gold, and something I’ve remembered forever.

Running a charter one winter morning my clients had caught some nice trout and a couple of redfish and where keeping a few for a good fish fry later that evening. As I approached the cleaning station an old man, maybe in his 80’s was cleaning a Sheepshead. He wore an old denim shirt, jeans, tennis shoes, and floppy straw hat, and his skin looked like leather under his patchy gray beard. Approaching the table I said, “How you doing.” Never looking up he replied, “Do you really care”? Taken back momentarily by his curt answer I responded, No, not really, was just being friendly.”

Not easily intimidated, I continued, “Looks like you really got on them today.” Seeming to warm a degree or two and realizing that I was not going away, he replied, “Fish only for Sheep’s this time of year, and do ok”.

I got him going now I thought to myself and continued pressing the conversation in hopes of picking up a tip or two about catching whoppers like those in his bucket. “Never target Sheepshead, I said. Most of my clients are interested in other species like Tarpon, Snook, Redfish, or Trout.” Knowing I was about to venture onto some soft ground I asked, “Got any tips on catching nice ones like those.

For the first time in the conversation, he looked in my direction with a slight grin saying, “You’re a guide you should know everything.” Smiling, I said, “Yea sure.” “I have a good understanding about catching fish but it looks like you got me skunked on Sheepshead.” He continued cleaning his fish without replying.

Finishing up, and at a seemingly loss for something else to say, I turned toward my clients, handed them their dinner and thanked them for their business. As we started walking away, I heard him say, “Boy,” if you got some time, stick around… I’ll tell you how I do it.” Not believing my ears, I replied. “That would be great I would appreciate anything you can teach me.”

By the time I loaded my boat the old man was finishing up. Grabbing a couple of cokes and some boiled peanuts from the cooler, I walked toward him and introduced myself, he replied, “names Gus, let’s sit here on the bench cause my old legs get tired standing.” Sitting down, I handed him a coke and offered some peanuts. For almost an hour, we sat there drinking coke, eating boiled nuts… him talking and me listening like a school boy.

“These little bait stealer’s” are great eating…. hard to clean but great eating never the less. Their fins are hard as nails and sharp as tacks and if you’re not careful they can really do some damage. Sneaky and quick these guy’s they can nibble away your bait and never move your float.” He explained.

“The secrets in the bait, you need something hard to get off the hook. Lots, of folks use fiddler crabs and shrimp and others use mussels or oysters. They all catch fish but you spend a lot of the time baiting your hook.” “So what do you use?” I wanted to know. Reaching into his shirt pocket, he handed me a piece of cheesecloth about 3 inches square. “Take this, and wrap a couple oysters or mussels inside then put it on the hook. When they start nibbling, they begin getting the flavor and when they can’t get small pieces they grab it like they stole something. Now you got em.” He smiled.

“Do you use light tackle of something larger?” I asked. “I got a couple of cheap spinning rods and reels with braid line. These new braids are great stuff for feeling em bite.” I use about a foot of thirty-pound leader, a #1 hook and a sliding sinker. Not too heavy on that sinker, he emphasized, only enough to hold against the current.”

“I use a float and small shot weight around shallow-water oyster bars, pot holes, and rock piles, “he said. “Keep an eye on that float because the slightest movement could be a bite. Sometimes it goes down just a little or moves off to one side. When it does set the hook, if you feel him… set it again they got hard mouths.” “That’s about all there is too it, hope it helps.” Oh, he said, “Just one more thing, no matter what you’re trying to catch, remember slack line is not your friend, you can’t hook em if you can’t feel em so keep that line tight.”
 

“Thanks for the coke, son.” he said. With that, he slowly walked off toward the parking lot, got into an old red Chevy pickup with a small boat in tow and disappeared down the road. I have never seen Gus since that day and often wonder what he’s up to or if he’s still around catching Sheep’s.

For several minutes sitting in my vehicle I reflected back on how it all started. That old man’s probably forgot more about fishing than I will ever know, I thought. Makes you wish you could pour his years of knowledge into your brain before he departs for a better fishing hole.

Since that day Sheepshead are on my list of fish to catch. In addition, my encounter with that old man, taught me well and I am catching plenty. Clients seem to enjoy something out of the ordinary often remarking, “These fish really fight.”

If you’re looking for some new angling excitement and think sight fishing for Reds is tough, test your sight fishing skills against open water Sheepshead.

Never pass up the opportunity to learn something new and when a conversation starts out negative take the challenge to turn it around. Always remember, the best rule in any conversation is never saying anything, you later wish was left unsaid.

A bobber does not mean someone poking their head into a tub of water trying to grab an apple with their mouth. A cork is more than a stopper for your favorite bottle of wine. And a float is not just a thing people ride during a parade. Actually they often pertain to a method of fishing used by millions. It seems every angler has their own method or style and one of the most productive showed up several years ago and that’s a popping a cork.

Historical papers indicate people used various types of floats, bobbers, or corks as early as mid 1800’s with evidence that somewhere around 1844 Norwegian fisherman used small egg-sized floats. Into the 1940’s, glass floats became popular with and where used to support larger commercial fishing nets. However, today they’ve been replaced by aluminum, plastic, natural cork and Styrofoam for most commercial and sport fishing applications.

Corks, bobbers, floats or what ever you elect to call them still serve the same purpose for today’s anglers. Whether a small boy with a cane pole and a can of worms, sitting on the bank, under a giant cypress tree fishing for bream, a family fishing for Bass, Snook or Redfish or a commercial trawler night fishing for swordfish…at some time or another they use some form of strike indicating floatation.

Within the last decade someone came up with the idea to pop their corks on the surface like a lure and quickly discovered it could serve more than one purpose. Not only could the bobber indicate a strike but when popped on the surface it attracted otherwise uninterested fish. This new method of attracting fish also attracted the attention of tackle manufacturers. And soon they began capitalizing on the idea creating what is known today as the Popping Cork.

A relatively simple design it soon became the must have strike indicator in every anglers arsenal, especially those targeting saltwater species like Spotted Sea Trout and Redfish. The idea was to generate enough attention to attract an unsuspecting fish. Then as they investigated the commotion there right in front of them was a tasty morsel of food.

This new method of attracting fish worked so well in fact, the cork soon took on a shape of its own and almost immediately began showing up in tackle shops everywhere. Each brightly colored oval or cigar shaped cork had a reinforced hole and a stainless steel wire shaft threaded through round plastic and brass beads then through the cork. Now when popped it not only created a commotion on the surface as the cork slid up and down the stainless steel shaft it struck the beads making a clicking sound.

This little fishing novelty helped anglers catch thousands of fish throughout the world. It did however have one drawback the stainless steel shaft. After a period of time it would bend preventing the cork from sliding properly.

For years after the invention of popping corks all was well in the fishing industry and they sold like hot cakes on a cold winter’s morning. Just think now we had it all… a strike indicator, a fish attractor and the small brass beads added weight which meant further cast. Could our fishing lives …possibly get any better?

Several years ago the Lindy Legendary Fishing Tackle Company based in Minnesota expanded into saltwater market with a product line called Old Bayside. Sensing a need for new and cutting edge products they revolutionized the popping cork market by creating a totally new design to this already popular floatation devices. This completely new style of popping cork called the “Paradise Popper” not only offered the standard oval and cigar shapes one had a concave top designed specifically to move more water.

Not only did we have a new design it went a step further and corrected the one existing drawback of all the others. Instead of using stainless steel shafts they used Titanium which enabled it to spring back to its original shape. I use them exclusively and recommend them to anyone.

Here’s a tip for those using braided line like PowerPro. When using a Paradise Popper or any popping cork for that matter the line often becomes wrapped around the wire shaft. One method I use to prevent this is cutting top swivel off and tying a short piece of heavy Seaguar Leader 40 - 50 lb on the top loop of the wire shaft. I then tie my braid line to the leader. By doing this the heavy leader holds the braid up and further away from the cork allowing the bait to swim under the line instead of over it.

We now understand more about floats and the newest popping cork design so how do you use it? Everyone quickly develops their own techniques but here are the basics.

1. Tie fluorocarbon leader, under the cork to keep your bait about a foot off the bottom. Depending on the bait you’re using you might also place a small split-shot weight 8 to 10 inches above the bait.

 2. Make your cast allowing everything to settle in the water, much like using a topwater lure.

 3. Now periodically snap the rod tip using your wrist while keeping your rod tip down at about a 45 degree angle. This allows the cork to displace the most water and when done properly the cork should make a gulping sound.

 4. Allow the cork to settle for about a minute or two and repeat the process until everything disappears.

 5. Finally, when the strike comes do not snatch back on the rod instead quickly take up the slack get the line tight and give a short quick tug to set the hook.

Wintertime’s great to get out fishing especially for sea trout. Purchase some Paradise Poppers, get the boat ready, load up the kids and head out for a great day on the water. And by the way you’ll surely be having fish for dinner.

All Anglers have a responsibility to fish responsibly…So when planning your next fishing escapade be accountable and plan ahead. Planning requires the responsibility for some ground work to ensure a successful outing. So make sure you have everything required for fishing, safety, and personal protection and geared toward a good day with family or friends.

But hang on, in today’s environmentally conscious world many anglers practice “catch & release” which throws a new wrench into the planning issue. Now we must plan for the safe and unharmed release of unwanted fish. Few areas of an anglers life begs more for dependable preparation than when returning an unharmed fish back to the water. Anglers have a responsibility not only to the fish, but other fishermen and this wonderful sport called fishing.

Over the year’s Florida’s adopted and enforces species specific seasons, restrictions, and boundaries along with size and bag limitations for both fresh and saltwater fish. It’s every angler’s responsibility to know, understand and abide by these regulations. We’ve been taught from an early age and understand that ignorance of the law is no excuse so be p