Great Birthday Adventure!
My youngest son was turning 11 years of age, and I wanted to create a memory that would last him a lifetime. A trip to one of Florida's theme parks would have just been a long day, waiting in long lines, to experience short rides. I took a chance and booked a charter, but not any charter, I booked Captain Kris @ Fish Whisperers Charters LLC. Our adventure started out with the ocean being closed because of a small craft advisory for stormy seas, but that didn't close the door on our fun or fantastic fishing. We met Captain Kris at the boat ramp and he immediately put our minds at ease and laid out a plan for the day. The boat was immaculate and road like a charm to our first stop, which was in one of the large creeks. He patiently taught my boys how to rig and cast the fresh live bait. Within a few minutes we caught a lady fish, a jack fish and a flounder. The boys were having a great time, even after one of them got shrimp slapped, LOL. We moved on and decided to try the jetties but the waves were crashing over the rocks. No worries because the boat road really smooth and fast and we quickly moved to a strategic spot in the river. The Captain used his fancy electronic equipment and brought us to a spot where gigantic red drum were laying in wait. We cut up the lady fish and dropped it to the bottom. On another rod we used a feisty mullet and dropped him to the bottom as well. After a couple of dumps to the rod it bent all the way over and The Fish was on! The pull on the rod was crazy heavy and Captain Kris helped the birthday boy start to reel it in. Well, not to be outdone, his older brother got a strike about 30 seconds later. I helped one son and my wonderful wife helped the other son and Captain Kris was helping everyone. After several minutes of what seemed like pulling a Volkswagen from 26 feet of water, we had both fish in the boat. The bull red fish were 40 and 36 inches and 30 and 26 pounds as I recall. Captain Kris did a wonderful job of reviving the fish so they could be released to father more fish. We stayed on the spot and caught several other fish and just really enjoyed the moment. I can honestly say we had a great experience and a great day. It wasn't just the fish, but also the interaction of Captain Kris with my family that made it memorable. I highly recommend this charter for those who know what they are doing, as well as those just starting out.
I had an incredible time with you guys and love working with kids. It's the best way to further the future of sportfishing and the excitement they show when hammering fish is priceless. You've got a great family and I would love to take you guys back out! This time, as Ian would say, "every man for himself!" Although I think Yvonne could certainly hold her own as a fisher-woman :) Fair Winds & Following Seas, Kris
