Fourth of July…250th Celebration…Countdo

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.

We departed under clouds, 75 degrees and 10mph north wind. Water was very clear. We fished an old spot I hadn’t fished much this year. Within five minutes we were getting hits and then it was catching. One fish measured 17”, but we were C&R today, anyway. This super group was soaking up my fishing tips, asking lots of questions and chilling to Michael Jackson. Everbody caught, today. You can’t ask for a better first time out…I had to caution them, though. Not every fishing trip is a 10 outta 10. ????

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!