Lots Of Catching

Water was “60!!!!!!” at 8:30AM, today. Yesterday, it was “70!!!!!” That change slowed the bite, for sure. First, we saw some birds diving in the inlet, and trolled. The air was cold! No hits, so we fluked. I quickly realized heat was needed, so we headed back to “the ditch” and found some action at 68 degrees. As the water drained out, we moved closer to the ocean and found some more action. (For the love of Pete! Can Ocean City get some consistent Summer water temps????)?‍??‍??‍?

I took out an excellent crew, today. We watched the weather closely just in case the wind blew too hard. As it turned out, predictions were higher than reality, and we had an outstanding trip. Aside from catching a lot, a 23” fish was boarded. Water was 68 degrees, Greenhead flies were not too bad and temps were in high 70’s since we fished close to ocean.

Today was beautiful from the start, but wind went from 0 to 60 faster than a corvette. So, we found a two hour window in the weather (wind) and ran with it. Catching started slow, then we missed one and picked up a throwback. We fished about 20 more minutes and decided to make a move. As we reeled in, we picked up another throwback. (A few days ago, we picked up a keeper and 10 throwbacks in 30 minutes at same spot.) After a five minute ride, the wind struck! I added weight to our rigs and changed out baits. Our drifts went from .6 miles per hour to 1.8 mph. The wind didn’t gradually build, it was like light switch. The trip was 80% over, but we stayed at it. With two hours up, I decided to add some extra time and fished a spot somewhat hidden from gusty winds. We fished an extra 30 minutes and no hits. The weather guys underestimated the blow, for sure, but my crew hung in there. No doubt, my crew learned some new fishing techniques and will be more than ready for their next trip!