10/18 - FALL MULLET RUN!!!

Had Glen, Jim and Charlie aboard the JETTYWOLF today.......on the JETTYWOLF's 6th Birthday! Today, She was delivered to my driveway six years ago. I sat in a chair in my driveway, waiting for her to roll down my street on a trailer.

So NO, we didn't have a birthday for her, like this. It's not my style.

But rather, we went out and worked her deck. And netted fish, after fish.

Cuz, the fall Mullet run is in full swing!  Literally, acres and acres of Mullet and even Pogies. And guess who's underneath them?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAUGHT ON 3" MULLET:  SOMEWHERE OVER 25 REDS TO 24 POUNDS, 6 - TROUT, 15 - YELLOWMOUTH TROUT, 10-JACKS, 2-BLUES, 1-CROAKERS, 1-LADYFISH, WE EVEN HAD TARPON ROLLING ALONG SIDE THE BOAT.

 

GAME ON FOLKS!

 

BOXED - 6 KEEPER REDBASS

                 15 YELLOWMOUTH

                  1 SPECKLED TROUT

10/17 - When it rains it pours.....

When it rains it pours.

 

As of the 19th of this week (Friday) the Fall New Moon effects will go away. The 6 foot plus tides will go back to normal "fall season" tides.

I'm booked from the 18th Thursday till Monday the 22nd...."Yep, never fished once during the super high tides earlier this week. Hell, Saturday it blew like Hell and on Sunday it rained all morning then blew."

I was smart enough to do my little bit of R&D on Friday before it got all sporty.

So now I better get seriously rested up, cuz I've been warned by 2 groups that they want "sacks" of fish. Guess they think it's "trawler" fishing.......Hahahahaha

But, still a live and or dead shrimp can't put anywhere on or near the bottom of the river because of the Croakers, and Mangrove Snappers on the same spots I trout fish with Float-rigs. So even though many "regulars" think we'll go blow 10 dozen live shrimp.
We aren't!

Mullet...and let's see how well they can fair on Flounder and Redbass in the next few days.

(discount Sunday, cuz I'll be fishing with a 6 year old litl girl, she won't POO-POO Mr. Croakie, I know that!)


I'M GETTING A TAD STIR CRAZY MYSELF, CUZ THIS IS ALL I REALLY CARE TO CATCH AND DO, PERSONALLY.

 

THIS PIC WAS ON 11/18/2011

"WHEN YOU SEE ME IN THIS FISHING JACKET

IT MEANS IT'S "GO-TIME", LOOK FOR IT TO BE HERE  SOON."

 



From: 10/12 Solo, World Tour Fishing

-Headed out at in the dark Friday morning.

Pulled up on a generic spot, to work some large lures for possible BIG TROUT.  I caught ONE, on my Kick-A-Mullet.

As I mentioned in a video I made when just testing out this new lure from Egret Baits. Is that I seem to do well, working it just below the surface. The bait's wide wiggling and rattling tail section will throw a wake, as it rattles.

That's how I caught my only Trout!  Key word: ONLY!

Yes, I worked all around and ended up at Trout River, without as much as a swirl on any lures I threw.

I guess the Trout are all in "mud flat creek" or something. Because I surely couldn't find any and then it was 10am, that fast. I started casting and it was still dark. So I was at this for quite a while, today.

I decided to bottom fish with some dead shrimp. The Trout River mouth has plenty of "hard bottom" structure, and I've always like fishing around there.

So I caught some Croakers to 14-1/2 inches, and some yellowmouth trout. But it wasn't like I was into all larger fish. I was getting a bit bored. So I ran all the way back to the jetties.

Yeah, I "shoulda' coulda'" caught some Mullet when I was down there and fished a different way. But, this R&D I felt was really over. At least down here. Cause I go that way to catch Speckled Trout, and I was kinda upset I found only one. Even after hitting some new spots on the high tide that looked so damn promising.

At the jetties, I saw waves of Mullet just pouring in the rocks and swimming tight heading westward. They were EZ to catch. I just pulled ahead of them, and they'd swim around my boat, and I threw my net on some.

I got about 15 or so. I anchored up, dropped one out on a bottom rig and fished some dead shrimp on another rod. The mullet was getting pounded by pretty big Seabass, and the dead shrimp was pounded by Croakers!

THE CROAKERS ARE CARPETING THE BOTTOM EVERYWHERE. YOU CAN'T PUT A SHRIMP ON THE BOTTOM WITHOUT CATCHING ONE.

(TIME to get the kids out for a morning.....they LOVE this kid of action!)

The key, is catching large Croakers, to keep me happy. They're becoming a nuisance, just like little Bluefish in the spring time!

So I pulled my anchor and changed tactics. I decided to Flounder fish.
I had maybe 10 Mullet left. So I used the "knocker-rig" with a bullet weight on my lightest rod I own.

I had no less than 2 on right away, fishing shallower water now. But even after the "bump-bump", letting them have it for a minute or two, then the run away with the bait. I'd do the "sweep-n-reel" on them and they'd get off!!!!!!!

3 reasons, I'm not a huge Flounder fisherman:

1- I hate loosing them! And the slowness of the fishing.

2 - The constant "re-rigging" that comes with bottom bumping

3- I'd rather catch them "here and there", on a float-rig!

That being said.....I finally caught a 5 pounder. Oh it was a nice Flounder. But it cost me 6 rigs, and in between I lost at least 6 other's.  They'd just seem to let go. I'd have Flounder heading upwards, after they'd run, I'd give them some time, and the whole deal.

Very frustrating. Seemed to be the theme of the day. Plus I made a video, rather than taking any photos. And when editing it and uploading it something happened and the whole video went bye-bye. Again, the unexplained computer glitch, screwed up the whole deal.

Just after spending HOURS editing the video for YOU. 

It  just wasn't my day!

------------------------------------


What I'm waiting on:

Cooler water, and less Pinfish, and 4" Mangrove Snappers. So I can actually fish a expensive "live shrimp" with several people aboard. Which equals 8-12 dozen live shrimp! And fish the float-rigs for Reds, and Trout.

I've saved alot of money this year. Because I refused to float-rig fish if all I'm gonna do is feed pinners and needlefish. Or, my customers will feed them. Yeah, "I" may be able to slip a live shrimp through the masses of hungry bait-stealers. But my customers most likely won't.

When no fish are coming to the boat, people who are casual fisherman (maybe) get complacent. I have to constantly be on top of them having them adjust, do things different, and pay attention.

So, I avoided that frustration all summer long.

My float-rigging tackle is cleaned, oiled, and lubed, and oh so ready to go.

If you have not thought about booking your "HOLIDAY" charter day yet. It's time to get on the ball! If you have plans too. I've got days surrounding Thanksgiving already reserved!

Because, that's when I'll be attacking the Inlet with a vengence, livewell brimming with shrimp, float-rigs ready, and bottom fishing gear polished honed and ready to GO!

10/13 - Too Many.....sale

Ya'll know I'm a Ugly Stik fan. Because there's no rod more durable.

Well. I am over stocked and need to slim down again. I have 4 - Ugly Stiks for sale, and a few Spinning reels for sale..

2 - 7' Med. Heavy "Ugly Stik Big Game" rods, only real difference is that they have a tougher and nicer Fugi reel seat. Foam handled. Black in color, and standard Ugly Stik colors. In great condition...if you've seen my Youtube video of "Traveller Bob" reeling in 40 pound Spring time Redbass. You saw these rods in action.  They are TRIGGER grip casting rods.
$25 each    / Regulary: $50

2 - 6'6" Medium "Ugly Stik lights" casting rods, with really nice super durable guides, cork handles. Good plugging rod, or jig casting rod. Yes you've seen Trout galore caught on these rods while using the Larry Dahlberg River2Sea Wide-Glide lure. In great shape.
$20 each   /  Reguarly $32

--------------------------------------------------------------

1- Daiwa spinning reel. Used maybe 3 times. Loaded with braid, Like New! $12 <<<<SOLD INSTANTLY>>>>>

1- Fin-Nor Light spinning reel, same deal used a few times, Loaded with braid like new $12 <<<<SOLD INSTANTLY>>>>>

Set of two Stereo speakers. Very very nice, and of high quality. Approx 22" high, and 12" wide, tri-angular shaped, really nice wire all brass wire hook-ups in the back, book shelf size. A must see set of very nice speakers to add to Big Screen TV or Stereo for just $40.00

Used size "Large" very durable Texsport Blue rain suit. Bibs and Jacket. Lined inside, and made from Denier 400 material. NOT cheapy PVC coated.  Perfect fall & winter fishing suit. $25.00 OBO

NEW. 2-4 person Tent, in canvas bag. Put up once, to see what it was all about. $25.00



"TAKE IT ALL",  BIDS CONSIDERED

Interested call 904-642-9546 to view.

BULK MATRIX's.......Special

Dockside Bait & Tackle has a October offer:  BULK MATRIX SHADS!

One fine soft plastic. Durable, no gimimicks, proven colors, perfect size & rigging.

I'VE CAUGHT, TROUT, FLOUNDER, REDFISH, YELLOWMOUTH TROUT AND MORE ON THEM WITH 1/4 OR 3/8'S UNPAINTED JIGHEADS.

I MATCH THESE JIGS WITH MY MATRIX SHAD BODIES. THE H&H TACKLE "TOUT HEAD" JIGS SNUG UP PERFECTLY TO THE MATRIX SHAD. THE HOOKS ARE STRONG, AND YOU CAN FISH ALL THAT FANCY EXPENSIVE STUFF...."BUT DO YOU REALLY THINK IT MATTERS?"  ACADEMY SPORTS AND OUTDOORS HAS PLENTY OF THESE JIG HEADS IN 1/4 & 3/8THS OUNCE. AND EVEN LONG AND SHORT SHANK HOOKS.

-tell them Capt Dave in Jax sent ya....



http://matrixshad.com/shop/


DOCKSIDE-Slidell, La.

 

 

 

 

 



 

10/9 - Quick changes

Oh my....I was feeling like I was energized all day long. TODAY'S air temp on the river was simply glorious!! It was cool, and foggy all day long. At least 15kt winds from the North. The fog was lifting from off the water as the air temp was cool and the water was warm. Classic, "smoke on the water....."

Just two days ago I did a report (10/7) and told you about how HOT it was.

Beyond the fishing, beyond what goes on aboard the Jettywolf. After today's trip I pulled the "wolfie" under her shed and got out of my truck and  went to check the mailbox. And I didn't feel like I was beat with an Ugly Stik, and needing a cold beer, ASAP!

I still had a "spring to my step". Even the boats Honda 225 seemed to run better, and so did the Dodge Trucks Cummins diesel. Everything including combustion engines loved the coolness of today's air.

I had Dale & Antonio aboard the Jettywolf. Antonio has never fished before......Never!  So I kept it simple. But of course wanted lots of action.

So we ran to my Croaker spot. His first drop down he slam dunked a giant Croaker. But that's when the size of the Croak's kinda stopped. Out of at least 25, just on this spot. FOUR, were large keeper size. My self imposed size.

So we packed it in and tried cut bait for Redbass on another spot, with no takers. Then another spot, with no takers. But the guys caught plenty of "bait sized" Croakers, so I stoked up the bait well and put a few in it for live baits as we continued the "HUNT FOR A BIG RB"......RedBass.

Next spot. I threw out a cut in half Croaker and it wasn't on the bottom but a few minutes wen the Rod doubled over and the drag peeled off my Shimano TRN-200G reel.  Dale picked it up and was completely overwhelmed.

This was a big S-T-U-D Redbass hauling azz with the tide behind it. I instantly had to do some fish control, tackle handling instruction. The fish stopped, then ran some more. Then, the 50# Mono leader broke!!

Okay, no more mono. I retied using the Mason Hard type Nylon leader, I should have used.

"Holy crap. After all that and we loose it???"

By now I was believing that those Bananas that Dale brought were having a major effect.
YES, BANANAS!

Old rule. Don't take Bananas fishing, or on a boat period. It's a "unlucky thing". A "mariners lore, thing"
Well, we had the kitchen sink stuffed into the 92qt cooler anyhow.

FYI.....show up with a few drinks per person, and a sandwich per person. It's all you'll ever need.
I PROMISE, we won't be heading to Gilligans Island.  

Okay, no more takers here, time to move on again. Next spot, no Red bites, but the guys caught a few more bait sized Croakers.

Made another move. (Notice, the trend. I don't  get stuck on one spot, EVER)

As I anchored the tide was starting to come in on the bottom...that was a good sign. So two more tasty little live Croakers went out.

One of the rods went down, and then just POPPED. I brought back a casualty of anchoring near huge lime rock ledges on the bottom. Broke line, and the whole rig was gone!

Next,  I looked over Antonio's shoulder as he stood in the stern of the boat and saw a rod jump and double over.

I went and grabbed it and made sure the fish was really on and hooked. I handed Antonio the rod and the fish kicked him around the back of the boat. No real current meant that the big fish run all over, instead of with the tide!
The line was dangerously near the prop, then the fish run under the boat, and I mean under the boat. Antonio was over gunned. This is where some good experience takes over. The fish round under the boat and busted the leader on the hard lime rock ledges we were anchored on.

That was Big Red #3.
G-O-N-E

Will we get another chance?  I hoped so. "We have the Banana lore haunting us", I said, and we all laughed......

I re-rigged and set out a few more live small Croakers and we waited. Then, one of the rods jumped a few times. I went over and yelled at the rod. "EAT IT, DAMMIT!!!!!"

Then, it bowed. I picked up the rod, the fish ran and Antonio grabbed the rod and it was game on.

He caught the largest Croaker. Now, he finally has a big Redbass! It just took 3 tries.





 

 

ITS OCTOBER, really?

Sure hasn't felt the way I'd like October to feel...(but like everyone else. I too am rushing winter)

Yep, I've skipped a beat here and haven't made any reports in a week. Well, lets see. I went and did some R&D the other day solo. I went and bought live shrimp and went to the jetties to try my hand at float-rig fishing.

That sure was a huge waste of time. The tide was really weak, and I caught no Trout, either. Hell. I couldn't hardly give a live shrimp away. And when I did, I caught two little Jacks and a Ribbonfish on a float-rig.

Disgusted as all hell and sooooooooo sick and tired of junkfish. I bagged it and went into the river where all I caught was 14" Trout on top water plugs.  Like I said, a waste of shrimp and time and money, really. But, going in I knew it was too early for Trout to be stacked at the Jetties. But I wanted to make sure.

I did a Burial at Sea with two folks this past Friday, and it was so rough a 1/2 mile outside the jetties that in the short time we were out there, they got seasick. I also did another Burial at Sea with people from Mississippi, last Friday too. And it was rough then. I had two kids on board with two women and the kids were balling their eyes out, because they were on the boat. "Guess, they'll remain Land-Lubbers when they grow up".

Yesterday, I did a regular day with 4 mid-westerners from the Malnove Co. I've done alot of business with various folks from Malnove over the years. And I'm really glad, I did what I did. But first, we didn't depart till after 8am. Not by my choosing, but by theirs.  I went and got some live Mullet in one cast of the net. But then again we never really used them much.

As we ran the river to get "outa the dang weekender hub", we past what seemed like 100's of boats fishing the Bull Redbass tournament. The gauntlet of hooks, and anchor lines must have made for an obstacle course for any fish on the bottom of the river.

Again, there sure was alot of people sitting and staring at the rod tips as we went by. Which was good for us. No one was on my favorite monster Croaker spot.

These guys came to just kick back and have a fun day. And wow was it H-O-T!

No wind, slick river and fishing like crazy....Opps, let me re-phrase that. CATCHING like crazy!

None of the 4 were "big time fisherman". So, this idea I had really fit the bill. Bait-up, drop over in the current, hit the bottom and get BIT!

They kept me "steppin & fetchin" so much I never fired off the first photo of them. But it was all out laughs, fish after fish and a really great time for Chicago and Detroit folks that haven't fished since they don't know when.

I was warned that they haven't fish in a really long time. And that right there showed me these guys had a sense of humor.

I was sweating, but I was having a great time also.

As the tide started to really slow. We picked up and ran another mile. I handed them all my spinner outfits and the old Bullet sinker and Owner circle hook finger mullet rig. Well.....they weren't great casters either. But, the tide was barely moving at all and made for a HOT, and troublesome attempt at live bait fishing.

So we picked up and headed back eastward. I tried another spot for not long with Mullet on the bottom and here came the rain. So we basically bagged it and headed back after taking shelter under the Clapboard Creek bridge while the atmosphere cleaned up a bit.

They all agreed that they'd had a big enough day. So back at the boat ramp, I cleaned a pile of big Croaks, and they went to Singletons for a late lunch and some cold beer with their fillets ready to hit the oil at Singletons.

Don't know about YOU.  But I'm more than ready for the axis of the earth to change to a winter state in this hemisphere of N. America.

I want to float-rig the jetties, catch Trout and Redbass on light tackle against the rocks. Catch less junkfish. And pop open that "winter closet" and don my lucky fishing jacket.

If that's what it takes to get into my "BEST"  six months of fishing out of the entire year. It can't come any sooner!

I'm happiest when I look like this:

 

 

HINT-HINT

  

9/29 - Full Moon woes?

Had Art back again aboard the Jettywolf. And he brought Skip from Pa. with him this time. As I have been doing I went and caught little Mullet first thing. And to get what I deemed was enough was tough as the tide quickly rose. But we got some and headed off.

Well, it's time to change locales I believe. I'm not finding the Flounder, Reds, or Trout, like I have been. But, at the same time on weekends I hate to have to fish the "HUB". I like getting out of the high traffic areas....IE: Coasties everywhere, FWC everywhere, and boats galore everywhere, on weekends.

It's been a nice run. But after today, just like on Thursday as hard as we tried, there just wasn't much action. Not nealy the action I had back in August that's for sure. What Trout we catch are small, and I'm really flipped out that I go to some killer spots and we fish the Mullet and don't even get a Trout at all.

And today with the full moon, there sure wasn't much tide on the rising tide all morning long. We had a few runs, and didn't connect. Using the knocker rig and circle hooks again on light spin outfits.

But we did barely squeak out a Redfish, Trout, Flounder Slam. But the Flounder was just a "chipper".

It was dead calm, the air was still, and it was hot as all hell. Very unusually HOT.

But when the tide turned, I told the guys as I dropped anchor and they baited up with cut shrimp pieces. "We're going catching NOW. Before we were fishing...and that just wasn't working out!"

They dropped down, just like on Thursday and were slam dunked by big Croakers. We kept the 12" and above ones and let the rest go.

Now, this is always fun. Especially after working so hard for the "glory species".

Art & Skip were fun to have aboard. And they had a fish fry for sure after they caught all the big Croakers they could stand.

The heat was really intense. So as we headed back to Mayport and that big breeze hit us, it was like someone turned on the A/C, compared to where we were.

Really..."if you can go on a weekday. By all means book a weekday." "But if not, we'll work it all out. Don't worry."

 

 

9/28 - Trying out a new plug for Trout, or was that Ladyfish?

9/27 - Jerkin my chain..

Had Tom and John and Jeremy aboard the Jettywolf for what I was hoping would be a big day of Redbass and Flounder.
Because that is what has been going on. But where are my Trout friends?

As I have been, I've traveled to my Mullet spot. And as we pulled up, there was thousands of mullet right there. Well, of course I wasn't yet ready with the castnet. So I pulled in and got ready. And here they came. I git a bunch, and didn't really get super loaded net fulls. But I figured it should do, so we took off.

I looked at a few spots close. The tide was ripping. So I said to myself, "Self, go, go ,go head out of here and get out of the hub."

So that's what we did. I made about a 6 mile run. Giit up on spot one and the tide was all wishy-washy. The boat swung back and forth. But the tide started to fall soon enough for us to feel the effects. So I adjusted.

We were all pitching live finger mullet, on my "knocker rigs". 1/2 oz. Bullet weights, atop a Owner Muti-light 3/0 circle hook. And we casted, and casted, and casted......WHAT???  not single "SNIFF".

Holy Moses. I run all the way here, after getting a boat load of finger mullet, set the guys up on a prime locale for Flounder, Trout and Redbass. And this is what I get for my efforts?

Yep. That's fishing!!

As I was helping one of the guys stuck in the bottom and hung into a toadfish or something. I set my "super fairy wand" AllStar rod in the rod holder. And that's when it happened. I look over and the super fairy wand is torqued and the drag is screaming. F-I-S-H-O-N, I yelled.

Tom, runs to the stern and grabs the rod. As he's getting smoked. I warn him, that the rod he has is the lightest baitcasting rod I could even find, so be aware......"That rods a noodle!"

But he expertly works the big fish to the boat on the light tackle. He did absolutely ZERO wrong. He took his time, let the Big Red just wear itself out. And up to the net comes a Beautiful Redbass.

32-1/8th inches. Of beautiful bronzeness. And one fantastic battle. I had to ask after the fish was released. "Tom, what would you rather do....Catch a Redbass that size on serios L.T. or a 40 pounder on heavy tackle in deep water with a 12 oz bank sinker?"

I kinda knew what his reply would be. He said, "I'd rather catch a fish just like that on tackle just like that!"

Me too.  I had to check. Because ya know I'm looking forward to winter and float-rig fishing live shrimp down the jetty rocks. And we don't use heavy tackle while doing that. So.....I may have a canidate for some winter Float-rig fishing trips with ole Tom here. Especially since he did so well with my "fairy wand" rod.

We fished and fished. We had a few Mullet get taken. We had a few Flounder bites. And even what seemed to be Flounder coming to the boat. But I don't believe they ever had the hook in their lips. I even had a serious bite from a flattie. So I thought, but every bite just let go of the Mullet.

Oh how these fish are "JERKIN MY CHAIN!"

We tried 3 other spots that should have produced. From shallow water to deep and Z-I-P.

So. What does a good fishing guide do if we just can't score on the BIG THREE (Trout, Redfish and Flounder). Go to plan B and sometimes even plan E.  I was fortunate I didn't have to go that far.

I told the guys. "Okay. It's time to go just get some BITES! And we ain't far from that spot. Just around the corner from where we were was the spot that was gonna make the day or break the day.

I pulled up, dropped the anchor, baited up some medium action tackle with dead shrimp. And it was....GAME ON.
CROAKERS, and YELLOWMOUTH TROUT, time.

Oh yes, and more than half of every Croak we caught were 12 inches. (My personal boat size limit) and I believe we had a good handful that were larger, too.

 



We ended up with at least 30 nice Croakers in the box and 4 Yellowmouth Trout. And in no time the shrimp was gone. So we packed it an and headed for the barn.

I had alot of Fillet knife duties to do!

 

 

 GLAD PLAN "B" WORKED OUT......DON'T LEAVE THE DOCK WITHOUT IT!

 

9/23 - Oh, what a difference one day makes.....

Had two lover birds aboard today. Cheryl got Matt a gift Certificate for his birthday. What a GREAT GAL! We all need us one like her. Just a sweet as you can be. And she like's to fish too! Matt's a lucky guy.

They arrived on time and ready to go at the boat ramp. Which was seemingly half as busy as on Saturday. Guess everyone went and burned their "Snapper Fuel Bill" on Saturday. Because, as I left from my 1/2 day with Mike & Danny, trucks and trailers were parked down the street even.

The boat ramp was crawling with FWC questionaires...I was asked, "Did you go offshore today sir?" at least 4 times over the weekend.

Incase you don't know. Red Snapper fishing....I mean catching, is a done deal in N.E. Florida.  Big Brother says there's no Red Snapper out there, and I believe in 2032 "your children, which will be adults by then" will be able to keep them again (huge question mark). But over the last two Friday, Saturday's and Sunday's, they've made a carnival out of this by allowing one per person per day. The reason to me is still unclear.

But, it's not like that is of any great concern to me. My concern was getting those perfect sized finger Mullet. And catching Matt & Cheryl some keeper Redbass.

The Mullet were tough to catch. By Sunday, the boat traffic, and people joining in on my "band wagon" was certainly different than on a Monday morning. Boats were scaring the mullet from their usual track. Which was swimming down the bank, straight to my waiting castnet.   Gotta love these weekends!!!

Finally after some struggles I caught what I deemed enough to go fishing with. So we ran far out of the "hub", to be left alone. And we were.........EVEN BY THE REDBASS!

Two Flounder, and a 16" Trout later. Not a single Red taker of our perfect frisky live Mullet, I worked so hard to get.
But I wasn't about to abandon the idea. So we worked the area till there was hardly any current left on the spot. Then, I moved to another area. Gave it a quick try....with ZIP.

Then, we just went to do what Cheryl likes. Fishin' her shrimp on the bottom. But the current was still running hard. And after a few adjustments, and getting away from the non-english speakers who wanted to park on top of me. We found our groove.

Some big Croakers,  and plenty of swimming rocks. AKA: Toadfish. Then, as the tide slowed on the surface and started coming in on the bottom. It was time to go back to the Mullet. On LIGHT TACKLE, using a small circle hook and a bullet weight. Cast it out, let it sink, feel the bump, and the big Yellowmouth would run away with the Mullet. Oh, yeah, this was FUN.

So much, that I never took a picture. And should have. But this is how a fish fry is made. Matt and I even made casts, and played, who ever boats the next one first wins. The nice Yellers were that thick. But it was challenging. And that's what's fun. And Matt won! He ripped one right away. But, I couldn't stop, I pitched another Mullet out and hung one, and Cheryl ended our day with another carnivor, Yellowmouth Trout.

We had a box of fish now. And I was happy. Some what. But Matt still needs to catch a Redfish. It's a real rarity that we could work as hard as we did, pitching live mullet and not get bit by a keeper Red.

Well Matt.......next time Brother!

 

 

BEFORE THE FILLET KNIFE......



AFTER THE FILLET KNIFE....ready for some Zaterains fish fry mix and HOT oil!

  

9/22 - Morning trip

Had Mike and Danny aboard the Jettywolf for a morning charter. Who was the boat ramp busy today. I suppose it was because this weekend was the second of the only days you'll be allowed to run way offshore with you and 10 of your friends and catch and be able to keep a single Red Snapper. Yeah, one Red Snapper!

Well, we had plans to catch us some of those perfect finger Mullet as quickly as all possible, and run and catch us some Redbass!

With not alot of time to waste, thank goodness we didn't have to waste time waiting on catching the perfect finger Mullet. No sooner I pulled up to the spot, threw the net we had all we needed in 2 casts.

Problem is catching them oce in the livewell. And it's not like my livewells are all that big. Just 14 gallons when maxed out and filled to the top. And we still can't catch the little speedsters.

On the spot, Mike had a run on his Mullet as soon as he chucked it ou there. But it didn't connect. And boy did we have to wait and wait and fish and fish. I think it was because the absolute last of the tide was really weird on the spot. Swooshing around and at one time making a complete "back eddy".

But then Mike slam dunked a perfect keeper. A 26 incher.

Then, as he was reeling in his mullet to re-cast, he was hit on the surface! And he caught a surface striking Flounder!
Of course the boat swung into probably 2 feet of watter at that time, so crazier things have happened.

Then, right when I thought the quick half day trip was about needing to come to and end, because I had the possible cance of doing an afternoon "2 hr kids trip" later. Is when I looked over and saw Danny hooked up with a powerful fish. It didn't run much, but was far away from the boat and on the surface. I was thinking "Polish Flounder"???? StingRay!

But, as he worked it to the boat is was another Redbass, and one so full of spunk it made Mike's seem like it almost swam to the boat. Danny a fresh water fisherman and now saltwater Fly fisherman, was hooked up to his very first evver Redbass and it was gioving him hell, on the light tackle.

Mike's Flounder was his very first Flounder also.

So today had many "firsts" all in the short course of this morning. Yes, folks, Capt Dave Sipler's Sport Fishing can be a life altering adventure in angling. Hahahahahahahahahahahahaha.....

Danny's Redbass was an exact 27 incher with tail pinched, and that was all we needed. So we headed to the dock. And when we got back I took the sides off their fish and we were done by 12:45pm, I think.

So, don't delay. Contact me about tides and days to reserve and let's get you on out there. The fishing today was slower, but not uneventful at all. It just took a bit longer to get those bites than earlier in the week.

The Croakers are chewin' and I always like doing that because they're just plain F-U-N, especially after putting a few Reds, Trout and Flounder in the fish box.



 

9/20 - Yeah, we knew it was supposed to rain....

Had Larry and his wife Melissa aboard the Jettywolf, today. When Larry booked his trip. The forecast was rain....so what!
We went anyhow, and it was really nice this morning. Really nice! We knew rain couldn't ruin "our" day.

It was cool, with low light, and low tide. So I went to my "mullet hole" and they were there waiting on me. Two, maybe three pitches of the cast net and I had all we'd use on a 3 day charter. But just incase, it's good to be a tad greedy. I can always let the Mullet go at the end of the day. They'll just be "relocated", that's all...Hahahahahahaha.

After a full bait well, we took off and it was a super nice ride in the river. Yes, no sun. But many times, no sun is actually really nice for a change.

I had Larry and Melissa pitching spinning rods rigged with a small swivel, leader line 30# about 12" worth, to a bullet sinker, tied to a 4/0 Owner  Mutu-light circle hook. Often called a "knocker rig", for offshore fisherman. Because the sinker comes down and knocks on top of the hook. I use it because it's like a jighead, but of course has a circle hook and is just a bit sturdier, over all. Plus, let's the finger Mullet wiggle around alot unobstructed.

We had Reds...one 27-1/2" we released. One 26 incher. And 3 Flounder to 4 pounds. Once 15" Trout, and a 12" Croaker.

There was a slight interruption during the day.

RAIN....yeah, it came from the east. And was heading straight for us. So I picked up and ran for under a bridge. Where Larry and Melissa  and I still got plenty wet. So they found a better place to fish. "out of the boat, behind a bridge piling!" 

Some times ya just have to improvise!

After the rain, bites slowed. And my crew had later plans. So we headed back to clean the catch....and it started drizzling again back at Mayport. So I moved quickly.

 

 

9/17 - The Gals = a good day!

Had Mike and Beth out for a gorgeous Monday morning. Slick calm after an absolute traffic jam weekend. (yeah, like a dummy I went and messed around on Sunday. It was insane out there!)

But what do I always say?  "there's nothing like a Monday morning at 7am!"

I picked them up at Sisiters Creek boat ramp, and before I could even lash a dock line to a cleat over there, here came the waves of perfect sized Mullet along the dock. I wasted not a minute and had my cast net ready and as the sun poked up I had no less than 100 swimming in my bait well.

When my crew arrived, I was already sweaty, and wet. I told them, "fishing guides do more before sun-up than most people do all day. Like the ole US Army TV commercial"

We made a run up river and headed for a dead calm area, and I had them trying their luck on tossing the Wide-Glide lures for any Specks that maybe in the area. We were really early on the tide timer. I knew that. But if we got slam dunked by a monster Trout it would all worth it.

There were plenty of Mullet in the area, but neither Mike or Beth got any whacks on the plug. So I set Beth up with a 1/2 oz. jighead and a live Mullet. It didn't take long before she was into fish.


















First bite was a decent Flounder. Then came a 26" Redbass. I also switched Mike over to a Mullet, and he had a "chipper" Flounder.



I set out another line with a live Mullet, as I made casts with the Wide Glide, and when I turned around the rod was doubled over and Beth got into another nice keeper sized Redbass.

I tried it for a little while longer and she caught a small Speckled Trout, too. Our fishing gal now had her "slam" of a Redfish, Trout, Flounder, all on the same spot.

Things slowed, so we moved on. I wanted to try and find a pile of large Yellowmouth Trout. And brought along some dead shrimp just incase. But as it turned out the Croaker's were chewing on the rising tide at the Dames Point. And as we did that I dropped two live Mullet out the back of the boat, to see if we could catch a bull Red. But nothing was interested in our Mullet. The Croakers were fun, and some of them very well worth keeping for fish fry material.

 

We boxed about 20 good sized Croakers and moved on. As you can see, the water was nice and calm in this area. But as soon as we hit around the west end of Blount Island, the wind went from damn near nothing to an all out hurricane in comparison.

 

I had a spot in mind, to try and get Beth a really big Red. And to do so, I had to switch over my anchor to the "big HOOK", the 25 pound grapnel. And it didn't even want to old us very good.

 

But once in position, we pitched out some live Mullet and watched the rods as the wind blew mega-bellies in the lines. But, it didn't matter.  One of the rods bowed over and we yelled there ya go Beth......Big Red!

 

She reeled but there was no long run. I just figured it was a smaller Red that didn't know it was hooked yet! And up comes to the surface yet another Flounder. I stretched out with the net before that Flounder could make a dash for the bottom. Or flap it self off the hook, as they do so easily.

 

I said, "yet another Flounder." Because on this same spot about ten days ago, we had a 4 and a 6 pound Flounder. And Beth's Flatties was 6 pounds!

Beth had to get on a plane and head back to New Hampshire at 4pm. And the anchor gave way and we started to drift in the 20+ knot SE sea breeze. So we headed back to Sisters Creek, because we had alot of fish to fillet, skin and de-bone and bag up.

What a great day. And a great crew!

 

9/14 - Fish or Die hard Trying!

Well, looks like my charter call for today made the right decision. Without even knowing it.

I had a back-up plan in the works for fishing on Friday. My old buddy DOA Rob wanted to go. He has his own fleet of yaks, and a boat. But thought it might be better if the Jettywolf took him to the Trout spots. So with a "iffy" weather forecast and early departure we headed out with a bag of ice and nothing but a handful of lures.

First spot. Rob gets a just 15" Trout on a surface plug. We both get "followers", and "swipers". And that was it on our plugs.

We'd intermingle, tossing jigs too.

NO BITES. By spot # 8, it was overly obvious that there wasn't going to be a Trout bite today.

Hmmmmm, was it the barometer (another name for weather?) The next days, new moon?

BECAUSE , JUST 4 DAYS AGO I SAT IN THE SAME AREA AND WACKED MY LIMIT PLUS IN ONE HOUR AND 10 MINUTES, OF SWEETHEART SIZED TROUT!

Working our way back to the dock, I finally connected to a few Ladyfish on a 1/2 oz. swim bait, as the tide turned  AND THE WIND WENT FROM NEXT TO NOTHING TO 20 KNOTS. 

I told Rob, that I have discovered at least a few "rules of thumb":

-Mullet need to be jumping and present all over.
-If Ladyfish are present, so will be the Trout.
-If a Trout doesn't wack our plugs by the 5 cast, they're not thick.   

It was a bumpy ride back, as the "due east winds" pushed against the falling tide in the river.

-------------------------------------

Rest of the week?
On and off big winds, and possible on and off rain?

I think summer is on it's way out folks. Time to luck into perfect sized Mullet on days like this, and just sit and fish for whatever and Flounder, huh??

9/13 - Ouch.....back-up?

When it rains it pours, huh.

LITERALLY!

Yes, I was supposed to be out today. Didn't even think that much about rain on and off all day long. The marine forecast talked about winds 15-20 knots. And that was my deciding factor.

Trout, lure chunkin' and big wind. Naw, ain't gonna happen. As I sit here "rather bored", I also had a call for Friday. (tomarrow) One fella, from Ga. And it sounded like a great trip, in the process.

FRIDAY
NORTHEAST WINDS 15 KNOTS. SEAS 3 TO 5 FEET. INLAND WATERS
A MODERATE CHOP. SCATTERED SHOWERS AND ISOLATED AFTERNOON THUNDERSTORMS.

This forecast may have impeeded the man's speedy reservation of a Friday charter.
All this weather when, I could really use the business. (thanks to presidential elections??)

Which brings me to the topic of weather and the seasons.

We're gonna get to the point where we'll start seeing more and more weather. Fronts start to get closer and closer to eachother. In July, fronts pass and you don't even care. They come and go once a week or every week and a half.

But as we get closer to "fall". That gap closes, tighter and tighter. It's the seasonal transitions are taking place.

SO, you as a possible "crew member" aboard the metal monster also know as the JETTYWOLF. Will have to start not only having your charter day in mind. But that "back-up" day in mind also.

I have two charters on the books right now, and neither one has a back up day. Sure, we could re-schedule for a fture date. But no back-up day, that same week.

--------------------------------------------

Although kids are in school, don't forget about my 2-4 person, 2 hr Kids Trips for $200. Even though they are in school, they seem to be out of school alot too. Teacher Conference days, holidays, and all that. If you plan ahead, you could get your kids, or grandkids 4-10 years old out on a F-U-N mornings adventure. I cannot say I have ever had a child aboard that didn't have fun. And bringing a day just down to basics, and watching them catch some fish, is a joy for me too.

It's CROAKER season. This is the time to do it.


Croak's = fun, even for adults!

9/11 - The fishing future...

Watching the news, and they're talking about where you were on 9/11, and how everyone remembers exactly where and what they were doing when we were attacked.

Of course......I was going fishing. I was standing in my driveway hitching up the boat. When I called my partner Pelican to see when he's be at the boat ramp. He said, "WE CAN'T GO...AMERICA IS UNDER ATTACK. THEY'RE ATTACKING US!!!"

I was so out of it. I hadn't a clue of what he was talking about. "TURN ON YOUR RADIO, TV WHATEVER, THEY'RE ATTACKING NEW YORK CITY!!!"

Heck, the way he was talking I was wanting to go load the rifles! And get ready to take someone out!

After the smoke cleared and we both got a better handle on what happened, I asked him..."So, does this mean we ain't going fishin?"  (I'm the concement, die hard)
He said, "I don't think we should go, we need to watch what happened and learn more." I grudgingly agreed. And said, we'll go later.....



So today, I took out the most "all about Fishing" 4 year old I have ever met. I always say, when I see a little kid like that, that he reminds me of myself. AND HE DID!

Ethan, his Dad and Uncle did a two hour, that went into almost 3 hours. Because of the big winds, and on the water struggles I had. As in there was a boat on the exact spot where I like to take little kids. Really......there is no water around here. Or at least not enough! The wind of course, and the tide wasn't exactly right. Targeted species was Croakers, and Yellowmouth Trout, and more.

It was a dead shrimp on the bottom kinda fishing, but the tiny little pinners (pinfish) were killing us. Eating the bait so fast,  it was as if they were carpeting the bottom. And they probably were. Because that river is a major Pinner magnet!

We whipped around on anchor back and forth. Then finally the current, wind and my lines went all the same direction and that's when the Yellowmouth and Croaker fest was on! Ethan had a ball reeling them in one after another, and talking to other boaters near by.

He will be the fishing future, that's for sure. This kid was ate up with it. He even brought his own 2' long rod, his own soft plastics, and was asking me about "lure fishing".  AT 4 YEARS OLD!

The best bait turned out to not be dead shrimp. But that ole Croaker standby I keep on the boat at all times....
FISHBITES. Any flavor will do.




















Here's the latest "wind" report:

 WEDNESDAY AND WEDNESDAY NIGHT

NORTHEAST WINDS 15 TO 20 KNOTS AND
GUSTY. SEAS 4 TO 6 FEET. INLAND WATERS CHOPPY. SCATTERED SHOWERS.

THURSDAY AND THURSDAY NIGHT
NORTHEAST TO EAST WINDS 15 TO 20
KNOTS. SEAS 4 TO 6 FEET. INLAND WATERS CHOPPY. SCATTERED SHOWERS
AND THUNDERSTORMS.

FRIDAY THROUGH SUNDAY
NORTHEAST TO EAST WINDS 10 TO 15 KNOTS.
SEAS 3 TO 5 FEET. INLAND WATERS A MODERATE CHOP. ISOLATED SHOWERS
AND THUNDERSTORMS.

My next day is supposed to be Thursday...but I doubt it. Friday's better.