Lobster Livelihood

RIVER Kerian that separates the New Town in the Perak Kerian, a place of living most of New Town residents who live on the edge of river.

The river is so deep lobster and provides income to more than 200 people and holding fishing traps there.

In addition Kelisa gold fish (arowana) are also commonly found in the Kerian River to provide additional fishing.

"Over the past year we arrest an average of more than 100 kilograms of lobster a day and sold between RM30 to RM40 a kg," said Abdul Aziz Mat, 65, specializes in lobster fishing Kerian River 10 years ago.

He said he was normal for three to five kilograms of lobster every time out fishing from midnight to early morning.

When found at the base of river fishermen in Kampung Parit binoculars or also known as Kampung Kubu, Abdul Aziz who is known among his colleagues as an expert fishing lobster, also use traps to catch more shrimp.

"In addition to lobster, I use traps to catch the ship huge fish (Oxyeleotris marmoratus) is a high demand and quite expensive on the market," he said.

In addition bubunya also entered as Tapah and teroboi fish.

According to Abdul Aziz, the right time to stop fishing or lobster traps are at low tide and clear water.

"Giant river prawn, more delicious flavor of lobster, and has its own fans," he said.

SE Winds and Cold on Lake Aldred - 03/28/10

Hello Folks,

I was able to get back on Lake Aldred (Susquehanna River) yesterday. It was my first trip to my home waters and the conditions were rather poor. The air temp was 32 degrees when I left my home and there was a slight southerly breeze blowing. That changed rather quickly once I was on the water and the winds picked up to 15+ mph from the SE.

It is nearly impossible to hide anywhere on Lake Aldred from a SE wind.

I launched around 7:15 a.m. and headed to the west shoreline where I found nice colored water... emerald green. The current was moving rather well which indicated that the Safe Harbor Power Station was pumping water through the generators. The water temperature was 45 degrees and a bit warmer than when I started fishing further north on Saturday.

I had decided to only toss two different styles of lures... a tube and a Rat'l Trap. I stuck to that plan all day long, especially when the winds started to pick up. Why? Because I couldn't take the time to step off the trolling motor in such heavy winds around the rock ledges and boulders. I had placed two different colored tubes and 1/8th oz. tube head jigs on the front deck so I would have them available to me. This allowed me to change or replace break-offs without leaving the front deck of the boat. Safety first!

I didn't get a single bite before 11:00 a.m. So, I took some time to find a nice
quiet spot behind a boulder island to hunker down out of the wind, toss my anchor, and eat lunch. The hot coffee I brought along in the Thermos really hit the spot on this cold morning. Having 15+ mph winds blowing over 45 degree water makes for some cold, shivering feelings. Brrrrrrr!

Jeff and his wife, Penny, arrived on the scene around 11:30 a.m. after having a tough morning with their trailer lights. They brought some minnows to toss around and were only able to hit one walleye on their trip. You know it's pretty darn tough fishing when even the "eyes" and the smallies won't take live bait!

I headed back over to the west bank after talking with them and finally hit a 14" smallmouth bass on a tube. Yes! I was finally de-skunked. This is not a legal fish (18") for this time of year, but it felt good to feel a "thunk" on the other end of the line after fishing for nearly five "loooong" hours.

I decided to pack it up and head back to the ramp around 2:00 p.m. After a bumpy ride back, I arrived at the ramp. The wind died down a bit and I decided to fish in and around the launch. Good thing I did because a beautiful 15.5" smallie took my tube. Heck, maybe I should have been fishing there all day... LOL!

Take care,
Dad

p.s. Sorry, no pics today because I was still "playing" around with my new I-Kam Xtreme Video Sunglasses. I took a short video of a beautiful water fall I came upon along the shoreline. The water fall water was from the rain run off. The angling of the video is not too good so I decided to keep it in the vault! I'll keep practicing and will eventually get a decent one to show here.

Cold, Cold, Cold! 3/27/10

Man-o-Man was it cold outside this morning! I had a reading of only 23 degrees at my home around 6:15 a.m. It was 27 degrees when I reached the access below Harrisburg, Pa. at 8:15 a.m. Brrrrrrrr! :o

Josh had his boat and I took mine this morning. We met at the launch and had to wait a few minutes as Josh's pisser tube/water pump de-iced.

Once we had water flowing strong out of the tubing, we were off and running north. Josh fished below about a mile from where I fished.

I hit two different spots (shorelines) and only managed one fish in the morning hours. The water temperature was 44.7 degrees as compared to 50.8 degrees on Tuesday... a 6 degree drop in four days.

The river had come up a bit since I fished on Thursday, but nowhere near what they had originally predicted. Several adjustments later, the predictor called for the river to rise at Harrisburg, Pa. to 7.3' yesterday and start falling today to 7.06'... about a 2.4" drop.

The river was cleaner where Josh was fishing. It had a nice green stain to it. My water was a bit murky and had a brownish tinge to it.

Josh had two bass on a 2.5" Black Neon Tube and 1/8th oz. tube head.

I stayed on the western shoreline above the TP until 12:30 p.m. and then headed down to join up with Josh. Josh was planning on leaving around 1:00 p.m. and I wanted to spend a few minutes fishing with him.

He had managed two more bass since I spoke with him while he drifted the western shoreline across.

I pulled upriver from him and tossed a green pumpkin/smoke tail tube towards the bank and immediately caught a 14" smallie!

That was my second of the day, but I wasn't finished.., No, not just yet!

Josh had to head out around 1:10 p.m. and I stayed and fished the shoreline for another hour. I caught three more smallies on that same tube.

The last three bass were caught in the same manner... I cast towards the shoreline, allow the current to take the tube downriver, as the tube arced behind the boat, the bass would follow and hit it.

Here is a pic of a rather strange looking 15" buck. Notice the big shoulders and thin long tail section... It did look weird.



I ended the day with five bass, but nothing bigger than the one in the pic.

dad

Lake Seri Rampai need to be upgraded

A lake in Taman Seri Rampai here, although not perfect, remains a focus for people around the exercise in the evening especially on weekends because of its location most convenient to them.

It also became the location of foot fishing gian release, while for the body to keep around the lake where they are jogging.

Although physical conditions sufficient to residents about exercise, but it is seen behind compared to recreational parks under the care of Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL).

In this regard, Members of Parliament Setiawangsa, Datuk Zulhasnan Rafique urged City Hall to do something about the lake area by visitor facilities and Beautiful.

"Facilities such as benches for visitors who rest needed to do recreational activities here.

"In addition, the need for additional lights illuminate the lake," he said in his speech at the closing ceremony 1Malaysia fishing competition organized by Pusat Khidmat Wakil Rakyat Setiawangsa and DBKL.

Approximately 2,000 visitors witnessed the competition, which included 387 participants.

Strict Zulhasnan, fishing competition was held aimed at strengthening relations between ethnic groups in the area around Parliament Setiawangsa.

Meanwhile, bring luck to the new boom Mohd. Faizal Abd. Manan emerged champion when to bring home the prize of RM1, 500. In fact this is the first time he joined the fishing competition.

Warm weather means hot fishing

Just as we figured, it only took a little warm weather to heat up the fishing action.
I had a couple of charters this week and we did extremely well.
On Wednesday, Ian Hill of Ontario caught a mess of pompano, spotted seatrout, Spanish mackerel and ladyfish. All of the fish were taken on D.O.A. CAL Jigs with gold paddle tails, D.O.A. night-glo shrimp and my Big Eye Baitfish Fly. Best action took place over deep grass patches in Sarasota Bay. We found fish on just about every cast.
On Thursday, I took Mark Fleischauer of Illinois and his son, Matt. Fishing was better than on the previous day.
We started catching fish right off the bat -- all on CAL Jigs with gold tails. Mark started things out with a fine Spanish mackerel. We caught at least a half dozen macks to 4 pounds on the day. In addition, we caught pompano to 2 pounds, spotted seatrout to 2, bluefish to 3, ladyfish and flounder.
Matt had the hot hand as far as big fish went.
We probably would have done better, but the wind picked up around 10 a.m., and kept us from fishing the productive spots.
The weather is definitely warming up and the fishing is pretty hot, too!

Getting The Hang Of The I-KAM Xtreme Video Sunglasses

Hello Folks,

James Cameron has nothing to worry about and yes, I'm not coming out of retirement to go into film directing... LOL!

I got to try out my new I-Kam Xtreme Video Sunglasses on today's fishing adventure. I have a lot to learn about positioning my head, etc. to get the best shot from these sunglasses. From the videos I took today, only one came out half-way decent.

I was on the road by 6:45 a.m. towing the boat and heading to Village Homestead Restaurant in Bainbridge, Pa. for some sausage gravy over biscuits and coffee. I took my time and read the morning newspaper before heading back to the truck and on to the river.

I launched at 8:00 a.m. and headed north just below where Josh and I fished on Tuesday. It had started to rain at the ramp and continued as I drove on to my first honey hole.

I caught some very nice fish today with the best three going at 17.25", 17.5", and a 18" fatty.

The water temperature dropped 3 degrees since Tuesday and the water rose from 6.2' to the level of 7' at Harrisburg, Pa. today!

Fish were caught on black/blue hair jigs and Green Pumpkin/Smoke Tail tubes up close and in the slower eddies.

Because my videos came out so poorly, I've deleted them and will start from scratch the next trip.

Dad

Oh Well, What Won't Kill You Will Make You stronger... I Think!

This past Friday (03/19/10) I had yet another visit with my family physician (PCP). I was diagnosed as an onset diabetic a few years ago and have been taking Metformin twice a day ever since. Over the past two months, I began noticing my blood sugars gradually creeping towards the 200 mark every day. This rise was occurring even with the medication i was taking... Not a good sign.

I have been living with my wife for 32 years and she is a juvenile diabetic. So, the symptoms and care of diabetes is not new to me. I try to eat well each and every day, plus exercise three or more times a week.

Despite all this care, there is very little we can do to counteract the effects of genetics... Shucks!

The PCP has now but me on a daily injection of Lantus, a long lasting insulin. It begins acting in one to two hours and there is no peak time associated with it. The beneficial effects of Lantus last for 20-24 hours.

It's a new chapter on my life adventure to be insulin dependent. I do not want to end up like my two grandfathers... blind and missing a leg (poor circulation). I plan on doing the best I can with what I have to do it with so I can be around to watch my grandchildren grow into adulthood.

I must follow my regime of medication in order to remain active and on the water fishing for years to come.

My heart goes out to all my "blogger buddies" who struggle with this debilitating disease. Hang tough as scientists learn more and more each year about our disease. Maybe the cure is just around the corner(?).

Dad

Maine Fishing Reports 2010:

Changing Winds 03/23/10

Hello Folks,

Finally got on the water after last weeks heavy rains and high waters. It was "Tuesdays With Josh" and we met at 7:00 a.m., headed out to breakfast, and onto the Susquehanna River below Harrisburg, Pa.

We were suppose to be fishing from Josh's rig, but he blew a bearing on his trailer this past weekend... Dang! This trailer is being replaced due to structure failure. However, in the past few weeks, the trailer has had a flat tire and now, a blown bearing! "Please, Dear God, bring Josh's trailer soon!"

We met up with Steve and Sean at the ramp and made a friendly wager on the day's take... Largest and Most Fish Categories.

Steve headed out first in his rig and I quickly followed in mine. We both headed north to find some decent size smallies. Steve was on the board rather quickly and took and early lead in the numbers bet.

Josh and I ran a bit further north and he hit three nice bass (14", 15", and 16.5") before I had my first (15") in the boat. Not real big fish, but it will do.

Steve was on a few larger fish that were in the 16"-17" range. Sean hit a nice 18.75" on a tube.

I finally nailed this nice 19" female from under a piece of wood. I was tossing a 3.5" Black Neon tube with a weedless 1/8th oz. Hanford jig. I cast a bit upriver from the wood and allowed it to drift free and under the board... Smack! I love pre-spawn fishing!



A little after 12:00 noon, Sean and Steve came north to eat lunch with us and talk smack about the morning fishing. Well, it seemed that they had the numbers on us and we had the size... Tie!

My wife bought a 6" sub at the local grocery store. She told me that the young man making the ham and cheese sub got a bit carried away while she was shopping. When she came back, the fellow had a HUGE sub waiting for her... Oh yea!

I shared half with Josh because this sucker was way too much for me.



This may have been the biggest bite we had all day! :)



After lunch, the wind really started to kick our butts! It had started in the morning from the South. By 11:00 a.m., it had shifted to the NE and was picking up velocity. After lunch, it was blowing over 25 mph from the NW with gusts of up to 40 mph!!

We attempted to run to a few more spots, but no matter where we went, the wind followed us and made it extremely hard for us to fish. Wind is not angler's friend... Nope!

We returned to our morning spot which was a bit more protected than most places we had ventured off to. We were both glad we did because we picked up quite a few bass, including this 18" Hawg...



Around 2:30 p.m., we were both finished. The wind had taken it's toll on us and we headed back to the ramp to meet up with Steve and Sean for a recap of their day.

The air temp at launch time was 50 degrees with a slight Southerly breeze. The sun was shining with some clouds drifting by. The water temp was at 50.3 degrees on the Lowrance.

The water was a dark green with a visibility of about two feet.

We tossed several different lures throughout the day... 2.5" and 3.5" tubes, LC Pointer 78 JB, hair jigs, spinnerbait, and the Predator Craw. Only the two sizes of tubes hit fish for us today.

Dad

When can Horseshoe crab Bathroom Sea

When I shower in the central coast of Pengkalan Balak Melaka, foot I stepped on something that feels hard, when I take the hand, I wonder how it looks large king crab. Would continue to bring up to the beach, take pictures for memories past.

When the night appeared, the king crab tu we can burn once with grilled chicken. When already cooked, taste like crab body looks delicious. I know what blood king crab in use medicinal purposes in countries such as Japan. In fact, it is also grown in large scale for the purpose of taking blood. He has mother-in-law shells I want to bring back memories.

Chili Cook Off - Hatch New Mexico

My wife sent this "chain letter" to me and I thought you all may enjoy reading it! I used to love eating hot Mexican foods when I was younger. Then the G.E.R.D. and irritable bowl stuff moved in and took control of my body. Dang!


New Mexico Chili Cookoff

If you can read this whole story without laughing, then there's no hope for you. I was crying by the end. This is an actual account as relayed to paramedics at a chili cook-off in Hatch, New Mexico .

Note: Please take time to read this slowly.
If you pay attention to the first two judges,
the reaction of the third judge is even better.

For those of you who have lived in New Mexico , you know how true this is. They actually have a Chili Cook-off about the time Halloween comes around. It takes up a major portion of a parking lot at the Chile Festival. Judge #3 was an inexperienced Chile taster named Frank , who was visiting from Asheville , NC .

Frank: 'Recently, I was honored to be selected as a judge at a chili cook-off. The original person called in sick at the last moment and I happened to be standing there at the judge's table, asking for directions to the Coors Light truck, when the call came in. I was assured by the other two judges (Native New Mexicans) that the chili wouldn't be all that spicy; and, besides, they told me I could have free beer during the tasting, so I accepted and became Judge #3.'

Here are the scorecard notes from the event:

CHILLI # 1 - MIKE 'S MANIAC MONSTER CHILI
Judge # 1 -- A little too heavy on the tomato. Amusing kick.
Judge # 2 -- Nice, smooth tomato flavor. Very mild.
Judge # 3 (Frank) -- Holy crap, what the hell is this stuff? You could remove dried paint from your driveway. Took me two beers to put the flames out. I hope that's the worst one.. These New Mexicans are crazy.

CHILI # 2 - EL RANCHO'S AFTERBURNER CHILI
Judge # 1 -- Smoky, with a hint of pork. Slight jalapeno tang.
Judge # 2 -- Exciting BBQ flavor, needs more peppers to be taken seriously.
Judge # 3 -- Keep this out of the reach of children. I'm not sure what I'm supposed to taste besides pain. I had to wave off two people who wanted to give me the Heimlich maneuver. They had to rush in more beer when they saw the look on my face.

CHILI # 3 - ALFREDO 'S FAMOUS BURN DOWN THE BARN
Judge # 1 -- Excellent firehouse chili. Great kick.
Judge # 2 -- A bit salty, good use of peppers.
Judge # 3 -- Call the EPA. I've located a uranium spill. My nose feels like I have been snorting Drano. Everyone knows the routine by now. Get me more beer before I ignite. Barmaid pounded me on the back, now my backbone is in the front part of my chest.. I'm getting sh*t-faced from all of the beer.

CHILI # 4 - BUBBA'S BLACK MAGIC
Judge # 1 -- Black bean chili with almost no spice. Disappointing.
Judge # 2 -- Hint of lime in the black beans. Good side dish for fish or other mild foods, not much of a chili.
Judge # 3 -- I felt something scraping across my tongue, but was unable to taste it. Is it possible to burn out taste buds? Sally , the beer maid, was standing behind me with fresh refills. This 300 lb. woman is starting to look HOT ... just like this nuclear waste I'm eating! Is chili an aphrodisiac?

CHILI # 5 - LISA 'S LEGAL LIP REMOVER
Judge # 1 -- Meaty, strong chili.Jalapeno peppers freshly ground, adding considerable kick. Very impressive.
Judge # 2 -- Chili using shredded beef, could use more tomato. Must admit the jalapeno peppers make a strong statement.
Judge # 3 -- My ears are ringing, sweat is pouring off my forehead and I can no longer focus my eyes. I farted, and four people behind me needed paramedics. The contestant seemed offended when I told her that her chili had given me brain damage. Sally saved my tongue from bleeding by pouring beer directly on it from the pitcher. I wonder if I'm burning my lips off. It really ticks me off that the other judges asked me to stop screaming. Screw them.

CHILI # 6 - VARGA'S VERY VEGETARIAN VARIETY
Judge # 1 -- Thin yet bold vegetarian variety chili. Good balance of spices and peppers.
Judge # 2 -- The best yet. Aggressive use of peppers, onions, garlic. Superb.
Judge # 3 -- My intestines are now a straight pipe filled with gaseous, sulfuric flames. I crapped on myself when I farted, and I'm worried it will eat through the chair. No one seems inclined to stand behind me except that Sally . Can't feel my lips anymore. I need to wipe my butt with a snow cone.

CHILI # 7 - SUSAN 'S SCREAMING SENSATION CHILI
Judge # 1 -- A mediocre chili with too much reliance on canned peppers.
Judge # 2 -- Ho hum, tastes as if the chef literally threw in a can of chili peppers at the last moment.. **I should take note that I am worried about Judge #3. He appears to be in a bit of distress as he is cursing uncontrollably.
Judge # 3 -- You could put a grenade in my mouth, pull the pin, and I wouldn't feel a thing. I've lost sight in one eye, and the world sounds like it is made of rushing water. My shirt is covered with chili, which slid unnoticed out of my mouth. My pants are full of lava to match my shirt. At least during the autopsy, they'll know what killed me. I've decided to stop breathing. It's too painful. Screw it; I'm not getting any oxygen anyway. If I need air, I'll just suck it in through the 4-inch hole in my stomach.

CHILI # 8 - BIG TOM'S TOENAIL CURLING CHILI
Judge # 1 -- The perfect ending, this is a nice blend chili. Not too bold but spicy enough to declare its existence.
Judge # 2 -- This final entry is a good, balanced chili. Neither mild nor hot. Sorry to see that most of it was lost when Judge #3 farted, passed out, fell over and pulled the chili pot down on top of himself. Not sure if he's going to make it. Poor fella, wonder how he'd have reacted to really hot chili?
Judge # 3 -- No report.



I don't know about you, but I started to laugh after about the third Chili entry!
Dad

The 2010 Shad run has started

So I was dying all weekend to go out to the first island for some togs. I was checking out the water temps online and was pretty sure they would be biting. My hunch was confirmed when I got the call from Jimmy telling me it was ON! I heard Kevin in the back ground... "where ya at Rob?!?!" It was killing me. I promised the wife that I would do the family thing this weekend. We went to the aquarium and yes, I did enjoy that. However, the rest of the time, I just couldn't get the togs out of my mind. I was constantly scheming of a way to get out on Sunday. But to no avail, I ended up back in Richmond without my tog fix. So I decided to get out on the James for a couple of hours and see if the shad were in yet. They are. It's just starting, so it wasn't on fire like it will be in a couple of weeks. I caught 4 in about 2 hrs. And they are fun, too. Especially on the flyrod. They call them "poor man's tarpon".



The togs however are still calling my name.

Soon....

Aquarium Tips: Sepat hardy species, unique

FISH sepat (Gourami) is considered one of the rare species maintained by the aquarium owners. This is because many who described the species is difficult preserved. And there are also species of the opinion that there is no commercial value.

However, less aquarium owners also maintain that because this species is more difficult than uniqueness found in ditches or ponds that before this becomes the main habitats.

Please note there are four types of fish sepat - Honey Gourami (COLISA chuna), Dwarf Gourami (COLISA lalia), Pearl Gourami (Trichogaster leeri) and Blue Gourami (Trichogaster trichopterus).



Each species displays different physical properties and has attracted its own force because many owners have started to collect fish species is considered endangered.

Many may not know that this species is considered easy to maintain than other species. This is because they are considered hardy and need not care too neat and easy living.

Price less than RM5 and a variation of this Sepat has caused many aquarium shop owners began to sell because it has gained a place among aquarium owners.

Four types of fish has a habit sepat nutrition, reproduction, compatibility and aquarium lighting and preparation habits opinion matching and requires only minimal maintenance.



This species is fond of dry food, either in the form of thin sheets or details. It was deemed not too choose in the selection of food.

Sepat reproduce spawn. It is quite comfortable with a bright aquarium lighting without the sun.

This is not the type of fish predators. Hence, it is friendly with other fish. Landscape aquarium that is suitable to enter the water in dense vegetation.

Opinion habit is lobby-like hovering below the surface. However in terms of water, Honey Gourami is compatible with water pH6.8, plasticity H7 water, water temperature 28 degrees Celsius, grow up to 6 cm and 80-liter water reservoir. Dwarf Gourami (pH6, H7, 28 degrees Celsius, 6cm, 80 liters), Pearl Gourami (pH7, H8, 10cm, 26 degrees Celsius and 100 liters) and Blue Gourami (pH6.8, H6, 27 degrees Celsius, 15cm and 200 liters).

So Long and Good Riddance to Winter 2009!

So What Did I Do Over The Winter of 2009?

Winter 12/21/09 - 03/20/10

Thank God this winter is winding down quickly. We had the most snow in recorded history and I know I did a helluva lot of snow blowing and shoveling!

The week after winter began, I spent 6 days in one of our local hospitals recuperating from some funky viral infection that just about closed my entire throat off. I lost well over 20 lbs and reluctantly kicked started my 2010 New Year's resolution to lose a few pounds... Not highly recommended by your PCP! I.V.s were stuck in me and I had some pretty good pain meds to help me swallow even soft foods.

We started Fall Open Gym for bball in October 2009. Team tryouts were November 19-25, 2009. Over 100 kids tried out and we can only carry 36 on the three junior high school teams (7th, 8th, and 9th grades)... Not happy having to cut 64 kids right before the Holiday Season. *sniff*

I volunteer to coach since I'm now retired/disabled from that school district. I thoroughly enjoy giving back to the community that once supported my counseling career.

Season games began on December 11, 2009 and ran all the way through to February 10, 2010. Three hours of practice each week night and several hours on Saturdays. Game days ran from 2:45 p.m. to 10:00 p.m (End of varsity games). That's 100's of volunteer hours coaching and training kids... I loved every minute of it!

December 2009, my wife joined me on my 6 month visit to Mercy Hospital in Baltimore to see my liver specialist. WhooHoo! :)

Celebrated my wife's birthday in mid-January. We celebrated our 32nd Anniversary on October 22, 2009. Everyday I wonder how this woman has put up with me and my love for life and fishing... She's a saint!

We volunteered and collected money for two benefits... Cancer Society and 'Aaron's Acres' ( http://www.aaronsacres.org/ )... "Anything for the kids!"

Doc. Peart gave me another cortisone shot in my right elbow (surgery last June 2009) in February because it was swelling once again on me... Dang! It seemed to do the job and the swelling was reduced and it's feeling much better now. look out, Smallies!

In February, I assisted JC Nuss of Lakeside Marine at the ESOS and in March, I helped out Winco's Custom Lures at the Calvary Church Outdoors Expo. I like to volunteer to help friends succeed, plus JC was a middle school student of mine back in the 1980's... It's nice seeing ex-students being productive citizens.

Got another spinal epidural injection today (03/18/10)... My fourth series in the past five years. Each series is comprised of three spinal epidural injections. I'll be returning in about two weeks for the second of this series... Thank you, Dr. William West!

This coming Saturday, I'll be heading north to help Dave Shindler of 'JST Fishin' (Guide Service) River Clean-Up. What a great way to bring in Spring 2010! We'll be gathering trash along the river banks and low lands with fellow anglers and concerned friends of the Susquehanna River. Last year's effort was fantastic. A big thanks to Dave and all those who participated in keeping our river just a bit cleaner.

As you can see, I try to stay busy during the winter months by a lot of volunteering. God willing, I'll be able to give yet another year in 2010!

Dad

Save River Telekosang

TENOM : Fish complain definitely synonymous with watery clear river that is located far inland and free from contamination. However, fish that are ideal foot fishing every day is getting increasingly scarce as threatened for various reasons. To fish is also not easy and requires patience and a long time high.

However, fish that has a delicious body with shiny scales that can be found easily on the River Telekosang is located in the area. River that flows into a rain resident fish species that have such a high market. In fact, 35.2 kilometers along the river is a source of sustenance to people in several villages in remote areas in this region such as village Rundum, Sumambu and Mamaitom. The river that flows swift river from the border to Indonesian villager Tomani in Tenom and also become a source of water to residents in that area.

However, the river is the main artery that area, especially rural population that is increasingly threatened. Malaysia Utusan reviews to find the river flowing clear river that is now used to switch the color to yellowish. In addition, there are a lot of waste timber that float in the river overlooking the ears. A villagers Mamaitom, Mohd. Syafie Abdullah, 65, said he was disappointed to see the current river conditions.

He claimed it was contamination that occurred due to human greed logging without environmental priority. "Rivers was a first time and in very clear, but now I am very sad to see once they have polluted and increasingly shallow. "So I appeal to the responsible parties to do something to stop the pollution that occurred in this river," he said when met here recently.

He said if no action is done right he believes the beauty and diversity of fish in the river will disappear altogether. Clearly, though many complain of fish in the river there at the time this species was seen but has been reduced by more than 10 years ago. "If the first complaint I can see fish swimming and when the banks can easily arrest but is no longer. "While the nets can be found every time ditebarkan, it is not as much as before," he said.

A resident of Kampung Sumambu, Panai Salim, 40, said the existence of many waste wood that float in the river at this difficult time catching fish population. In fact, he said, the timber wash it also may be dangerous to the safety of villagers seek there. "At this time, very difficult to install as wooden trawl trawl float many causes we often torn. Menjala For it is often difficult because of stuck," he said. In that Mongolok John, 57, who came from nearby towns Kemabung said the government should take proactive action to save the rivers.

Reported, the river is used as a potential tourism products that can improve the state's economic state and local residents. In addition, he said, efforts to save the river should also be done as soon as the shallow river conditions that can cause flash flooding risk in many areas in the region. "This river actually has many valuable treasures such as fish and various aquatic life complaint.

"In fact the river is also surrounded by flora and fauna that can provide variety and tranquility to visitors so it is maintained and protected accordingly," he said.

Perch fishing with Lukafish

More Good Stuff!

I was a busy bee today as it felt spring-like outside. The temperature reached into the 60's after four days of soaking rains and lower temperatures.

I moved my pool patio furniture outside and onto the deck in order to open up the basement a bit. I want to scrape off some of the loose concrete block sealant and reseal the walls this spring. We had the front outside wall fixed about two summers ago and we no longer get any runoff water over the concrete block and into the basement... Good!

I have BIG plans for the basement and I need to take the first step to get it all started... Step 1: Scrape down the walls and reseal them.

I removed the snow blower from the garage and returned it to it's warm weather corner in the backyard shed. I noticed that my friendly field mice were at it once again building a small nest in the upper corner of the shed. However, several of my d-Con boxes were emptied and I found one little dead critter among the nesting... *sniff*

I tried to recharge the lawn tractor battery yesterday, but my meter showed "0" charge... Dang! The battery lasted two seasons and is warrantied for only one. I tried the battery today anyway without any success. I ran to the local ACE Hardware store and picked up another lawn tractor battery at $45! It should last me a good two seasons.

My next task was to place new "Anti-Fatigue Foam Mats" on the front deck of my jet rig. I already have two up where I stand the most, but I wanted to place two more just behind those. I used sticky taped velcro to hold the mats to the boat's rug flooring.



Notice on the next pic the old mat as compared to the new one. The stain you see on the old foam mat was from my last trip on the water. I use 'Bang' scent quite often on my soft plastics and the mat's help keep the scent off the rugs. 'Bang' is an oily extract from cooked molting crawdads. It's an oil that will eventually wear off the mat over time.



The plastic tub to the right holds my drag chain. The weight of the chain and the trolling motor wiring holds the tub fast while trailering the jet rig to and from the water.

Over the past few weeks, I've been collecting a few more custom lures from Winco's Custom Lures. In the picture below, there are four new baits I will be tossing about this season.



To the far left is the new short-armed 'Bronze Bushwhacker' in the 3/8th oz. size. Next to the 'Bushwhacker' is the hollow-bodied minnow that was just poured two weeks ago (Hot off the molds!). Next is the 'Bubba Craw' on a belly-weighted jig hook. This may be a killer this season for smallies, as well as, greenies at the local lakes. The last lure is a Winco's Tom Cat. These Mad Tom imitations are soft as can be and look extremely life-like. They, too, are rigged on the belly-weight jigs.

So, that's what I was up to today. Maybe I'll head to a nearby lake tomorrow and see if I can entice a largemouth or two to take a lure. I haven't been on a lake for months and it's time to test 'em out!

Dad

Impediment To Soft Bait

Use fill fish sometimes difficult because it is easy terburai especially when dibaling or brought current. Therefore, a suitable knot needed to avoid passing out simply.

Use fill fish sometimes difficult because it is easy terburai especially when dibaling or brought current. Therefore, a suitable knot needed to avoid passing out simply.

1 - Please fill out the fish commonly used but must be removed to allow the skin smells attractive to tame the victim and then enter the hook to fill the fish.

2 - Then the diameter of thin rope Tangsi in almost the whole bait just now.

3 - Disconnect bond last wind bait but just never make any impediment.

Tidal James success

A couple friends have been wanting to join me on the tidal James and try for the big blues. So I picked a day and let them know. It was cold and rainy, but sometimes... that makes for some good fishing! Two of the guys that followed me didn't have the appropriate cold rain gear so they took off after an hour on the water. That left three of us on the water. First to hook up was me.

36lb Blue Catfish

I had another one at around 10lbs (not photo worthy).

Thom hooked up next with this 32lb 38" Big Blue.

T'was good times.

On the way back to the ramp I spied this beauty.

Most Recent Top 100 Visitors to "Fishing With Dad"

I want to thank everyone who comes to visit me at "Fishing With Dad". Your visits mean so much to me and I appreciate those who return over and over again!

I am totally amazed with the number of overseas and beyond the border visitors at "Fishing With Dad". I find it quite special to realize that "Fishing With Dad" is viewed around the world in places like Italy, Canada, Finland, Belgium, Japan, and many, many more countries.

Here is my most recent "Top 100" visitors, Can you find yourself in there!?

1
Japan Sendai, Miyagi
2
Unknown
3
United States Glenwood, Illinois
4
United States Milford Square, Pennsylvania
5
United States Hobart, Indiana
6
United States Hatboro, Pennsylvania
7
Unknown
8
United States Chantilly, Virginia
9
United States Palmerton, Pennsylvania
10
United States Chantilly, Virginia
11
United States Palmerton, Pennsylvania
12
United States Minneapolis, Minnesota
13
United States Jeffersonville, Ohio
14
United States Malibu, California
15
India New Delhi, Delhi
16
Unknown
17
Canada Toronto, Ontario
18
Unknown
19
Canada Toronto, Ontario
20
United States Westfield, New Jersey

21
United States Westfield, New Jersey
22
United States Minneapolis, Minnesota
23
United States Palmerton, Pennsylvania
24
United States Morgantown, West Virginia
25
United States Downingtown, Pennsylvania
26
United States Jeffersonville, Ohio
27
Unknown
28
United States Minneapolis, Minnesota
29
Unknown
30
United States Douglassville, Pennsylvania
31
United States Los Angeles, California
32
Japan Sendai, Miyagi
33
Unknown
34
United States Palmerton, Pennsylvania
35
United States Manheim, Pennsylvania
36
United States Goleta, California
37
Unknown
38
Unknown
39
Unknown
40
United States Chantilly, Virginia

41
United States New Providence, Pennsylvania
42
United States Doylestown, Pennsylvania
43
United States Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania
44
United States Jeffersonville, Ohio
45
United States Downingtown, Pennsylvania
46
United States Palmerton, Pennsylvania
47
United States San Mateo, California
48
Unknown
49
United States West Chester, Pennsylvania
50
Unknown
51
Unknown
52
United States Jeffersonville, Ohio
53
Finland Kajaani, Oulu
54
Unknown
55
United States
56
United States Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
57
United States
58
United States Charlottesville, Virginia
59
United States Germansville, Pennsylvania
60
United States Minneapolis, Minnesota

61
United States Palmerton, Pennsylvania
62
Unknown
63
United States Cheltenham, Maryland
64
United States
65
United States Huntingdon Valley, Pennsylvania
66
United States
67
United States Memphis, Tennessee
68
Unknown
69
Unknown
70
United States
71
Unknown
72
United States Burlington, New Jersey
73
Unknown
74
Unknown
75
United States Minneapolis, Minnesota
76
United States York, Pennsylvania
77
United States York, Pennsylvania
78
United States Jeffersonville, Ohio
79
United States Mabton, Washington
80
United States Palmerton, Pennsylvania

81
United States Palmerton, Pennsylvania
82
Unknown
83
United States Chantilly, Virginia
84
Japan Sendai, Miyagi
85
United States Mountain View, California
86
Canada Vancouver, British Columbia
87
United States Middletown, Pennsylvania
88
United States Newtown, Pennsylvania
89
United States
90
United States
91
United States Bronx, New York
92
United States Palmerton, Pennsylvania
93
Unknown
94
Unknown
95
Canada
96
United States Mountain View, California
97
Unknown
98
United States Hatboro, Pennsylvania
99
Unknown
100
United States Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Over The River And Through The Woods...

...To all the fishing sales today!

I wasn't quite sure how this day was going to go after I got to the restaurant today. I dropped my wife off at the front door of the greasy spoon and headed into the rain soaked parking lot. The wind was blowing quite hard and the rain was falling diagonally. I exited the car and felt a cool breeze hit the back of my leg. At first, I thought I may have gotten my jeans wet while getting into the car at home. I reached around to feel my pants, but instead felt skin. Yepper, my blue jeans were torn from the back left pocket all the way to my hamstring. Folks, this wasn't a little rip, but more like a full blow out!

So, I jumped back into the car and tried to call my wife on her cell phone. And of course, I got absolutely no response. I left a message and headed back home to change my jeans. It took me about ten minutes to get home and back on the road. As I was returning to the restaurant, my "caring" wife finally realized that her loving husband was not in the restaurant yet... LOL!

After listening to my frantic cell phone message, she called me and I assured her I was on my way.

After breakfast, I headed next door to get a quick haircut. My wife headed to the Weis Grocery Store in the same shopping mall to pick up a few items. Within minutes, she was calling telling me that the grocery store's roof was damaged by the wind and the police and fire company had the entire parking area cordoned off to keep people away and safe.

Okay... torn jeans and a damaged roof in only our first hour out of the house. Maybe this was one of those days that we should just turn around, go home, put our PJs back on, and hit the bed!

But "No!"... After my haircut, we were off to Wellsville, Pa. to the Wellsville Fire Company's Annual Fishing Flea Market. My good buddy, Mike Burton and the Lancaster County Hawg Hunters were sponsoring a trout pond for kids. I had never been to the flea market and was determined to get there "Hell or High Water" This year. Well, we had the high water, but I wasn't too keen on the "Hell" part.

We arrived around 9:15 a.m. and found the trout pond out in the engine room. We hung out with Mike and a few of the Hawg Hunters watching, talking, and helping the kids. It was a lot of fun watching them eagerly awaiting a "tap" on their line by a "slime rocket."

Mike Burton assisting a little tyke with her fishing rod.



I got to see an old friend, Gordon Brady from B&B Tackle. I met Gordon years ago when we were in the Pa. BASS District 3. Gordon and I often communicated on AOL's Fishing Forum. This was prior to any of what we have today. In fact, AOL no longer runs that forum and hasn't for years.

We also came across Ken Keener, another District 3 acquaintance. Ken was selling custom made buzzbaits, swimming jigs, and regular jigs. He is very talented. I love homemade fishing tackle and couldn't resist buying about five Keener jigs and one buzzbait. Ken took the time to make me a customized 3/8th oz. buzzbait with a chart/white skirt and gold blade. Thanks, Ken, I appreciate the time you took for me!

Our next stop on this day trip was to HawgHead Marine and Tackle Center to see what Todd and Rick had going on. I found some of my favorite 2.5" tubes in a 100 pack and some of Jeff Little's Riverbottom Tubes (Dark Green/Brown/Chocolate w/ blk flake). These new tubes look too good to pass up. All these tubes were 25% off!! $20.99 for a 100 pack - I just couldn't pass that deal up.

In fact, when we arrived at the store, Jeff Little was in the middle of a seminar about smallmouth river fishing. Jeff always does a fantastic job.

What a spread Todd and Rick put out for their customers each year. Once again, they out did themselves! Let's see - Beer and Punch, Pulled Pork, Sausage with Peppers, Barbecue Chicken, Steamed Shrimp, Macaroni Salad, and Baked Beans with the sweetest onions! All this was offered to anyone who made a purchase at the store that day.

Thanks Todd and Rick for all the great food and the many sales!

Off to Bass Pro Shop!

My good buddy and fly angler, Bob Clouser, was demonstrating fly casting in the Harrisburg Mall when we arrived. He was just finishing up and we all [Bob, Bob Jr, Brian Shumaker (Susquehanna River Guides), my wife and me] headed out to take a short break. They all got some quick Chinese food and drinks while my wife and I grabbed a diet soda. We got to sit down and shoot the breeze for a few minutes before they had to return to BPS.

Bob Clouser and Julie



Once we got back to the store, Julie and I headed over to the BPS fishing rain gear department. My old rain jacket just about bit the dust last summer. *sniff* No matter how much I sprayed her with water repellent, my trusty and, up to that year, reliable rain jacket, was allowing water to make it's way eventually through the material and get me wet during a good soaking rainstorm. She was still good under shorter downpours or quick summer showers. We did some comparison shopping among brands and decided on the Bass Pro Shops' Pro Qualifier Rain Jacket. It was retailed at $189 and was on sale for $139 XXL/T. These rain jackets seem to run a bit small. So, I went with a bit larger jacket to accommodate wearing a fleece under it. A $50 dollar savings is a pretty good bargain.

I also picked up some Suffix 20 lb and P-Line Fluorocarbon line for leader material. I want to rig up at least one baitcaster with this combo and carry it with me at all times.

It was going on 3:30 p.m. by the time we decided to head back to Willow Street, Pa. What a great day to be indoors with the driving wind and rain outside. We certainly turned an ugly day outside into a great fishing sales day indoors. Not only did we find some great deals, but we were able to reconnect with some very good friends on our day trip. Julie and I agreed that we would both do this day over again in heartbeat... fer shure!

Dad

p.s. Thank God for the invention of the GPS. My Alpine GPS got me everywhere today without a hitch. I've had my GPS for several years now and I just love it. What I find funny is that I had a GPS on my boats years before I bought one for my car or they were even available for vehicles... Priorities! :)

Take advantage of the days that will allow you to fish

It's difficult for those in other areas of the country to comprehend just how tough this winter has been for those of us who reside in Florida.
This winter has been brutal for a number of reasons: unseasonable cold, strong wind and many lost charters because of the first two. I was forced to cancel 15 charters in February alone. That's not good for business or the wallet.
I like to get out on the winter whenever I can; whether or not I have a charter. It's a good way to keep abreast of what's going on. If someone calls this afternoon and wants to go fishing tomorrow, I like to be confident about his or her chances.
I got out twice this week before the weather deteriorated. On Monday, I fished in southern Tampa Bay off E.G. Simmons Park, a neat spot that I've fish a number of occasions. I arrived at the launch at about 7:30 and was in my kayak paddling north by 7:45. I chose to paddle just outside the backcountry, but didn't see any signs of fish. There were no mullet in the area and there were no visible signs of snook or redfish. I then decided to paddle in the backcountry, a series of shallow bays that were separated from Tampa Bay by several cuts. Some cuts are deep and should be prime spots to target when the weather warms. But they were fishless this time. And even though the bays held good  numbers of mullet, predators were absent.
I returned to Tampa Bay and scouted a variety of locations: mangroves, shallows, grassy areas, sand holes and deep water. I didnt see any fish and I didn't see a couple of other anglers in the area hook up.
I was thinking it might be time to head home. On the way back to the launch, I decided to check out a canal-like stretch of water. I thought the canal's depth might hold some warmer water and some fish. I paddled about 100 yards into the cut and sent a cast under some mangroves. I was using a D.O.A. Cal Jig and gold shad tail. I bounced the jig once, and then let it sink. I felt a fish take the jig as it sank. I set the hook and was solid into a fish. Didn't know for sure what it was, but figured it was a redfish.
A few minutes later, I landed a 23-inch redfish. I took a photo and then released the fish.
The tide was incoming, so I set up my drift accordingly. I could easily cast under and around mangrove on the north side of the cut. I caught and released seven more redfish over the next hour. I landed one fish that went 26 inches. The others ranged from 17 to 19 inches. Didn't matter to me. I had a great time.
The next day, I decided to stay home and fish Sarasota Bay off Stephens Point. I launched at a spot nearby and paddled directly to a grass patch that had yielded a good number of spotted seatrout a couple of weeks ago.
The fish were still there. I caught a small trout in my first cast and ended up with eight trout in 10 casts. I simply kept fishing until the bite slowed. When it did, I paddled to the next patch. I fished for about three hours and caught more than 75 trout and one ladyfish. All came on the D.O.A. CAL Jig and gold paddle tail grub. I may have caught one legal trout (the slot limit is 15 to 20 inches). Doesn't matter. The good news is the trout population is healthy. And these 12-to-15-inch trout will grow!
On a side note, I want you to know just how tough and durable the paddle tail grub is. I caught 76 fish and used just two grubs. And the second grub is still in good shape and I'll use it the next time I have a spinning trip. In addition, when placed on the jig head with the paddle tail horizontal, the tail vibrates nicely when jigged or reeled.
I don't use a spinning rod often, but I will when I'm on an exploratory trip. My goal is to find fish. Once I located them, I'm confident that I and my clients can take them on fly.

Hold breath, do not move when the snake want to achieve

Often we forget or do-do forget things when fishing safety. Danger is always there around without realized, especially for anglers who like jungle trekking and river estuaries Depkominfo throughout Malaysia. Mostly not emphasizing their personal safety. Medical equipment "First aid" must be brought together during jungle trekking to fishing as a first step before referred to the doctor.

Space this time to discuss tips for snake venom can be fatal to the victim. For senior citizens Mat Ali Siku from Kampung Kuala Pah, Kuala Kelawang, Negeri Sembilan can offer expertise and unsurpassed snake is not surprising given he was nicknamed Snake Pak Ali.

Recognize acquire knowledge through dreams snake, senior citizens aged 73 years is often called the home if neighbors are not invited guests visited it. According to him, never played with the snake because it can cause disaster if exultant brave.


Ability to catch various species of poisonous snakes like cobra Tedung, Calloselasma, python and many more talk to villagers. Message to anglers who like fishing at night if encounters with venomous snakes such as cobra or snake Tedung axes do not move the body and can hold if breathing.

Venomous snakes such as cobra Tedung senses can detect prey with heat blown. Usually the snake will stand ready to achieve, so never test.

Let the snake down to own land and let it go. Message, when through the forest at night, wear rubber shoes that high, because it can protect us from the thigh bitten rattlesnake. If someone bitten snake, with binding cloth or use a strong bond that the bitten.

This way, can slow the venom absorbed into the bloodstream. Breathe with the heart a supreme place in the body of your snake just bitten and the pier that can be issued. Then, must refer to the clinic or medical center nearby.

For those who are often fishing at night, he reminded to be cautious look around before the crane boom conditions.

The Tale of Two Fishing Trips

Hello Fellow Bloggers!

I was out fishing twice since Tuesday. The first trip was above Harrisburg, Pa. and the second trip was below.

Josh and I fished north of Harrisburg, Pa. on Tuesday and caught 12 smallmouth on two different types of jigs. The hair jig was the big number lure of the day and the 2.5" tube came in a far second. We threw jerkbaits also without a single bite.

The weather was outstanding and the air temperature hit 63 degrees by mid-afternoon. I actually took my silks off after lunch and I wasn't even chilled by removing my shirt. There was a slight southerly breeze, but it had very little effect on any of our fishing.

The water temperature ranged from 44 degrees to 48 degrees and it had a very nice dark green stain to it. It was rather clean considering all the runoff from the snow melt.

Josh caught 8 bass and I had four from the back of the boat. We found that we would hit schools of similar size bass as we moved the boat from spot to spot. After about 4-5 hits, the spot would settle down and we would move... Typical for this area.

We met Mike Burton and his fishing partner at the Tuesday fishing hole and we did some running with him to show a few routes to and from another fishing pool. The water was at 4.4' in Harrisburg which made traveling a little less stressful among the rock gardens.

Thursday's fishing adventure found me doing another solo. I kept a close watch on the weather reports over the past week and it looked rather good to hit the water once more before all the rain set in. In fact, currently [river term :)], the river at the Harrisburg, Pa. gauge is predicted to hit the 16' mark or just one foot below flood stage by Monday!!

The weather was very nice on Thursday morning. The air temperature was in the upper 40's due to the overnight cloud cover. The water temp where I was fishing was 48 degrees in the morning and reached a 49.7 degree temp by 3:00 p.m.

The air temperature was 62 degrees when I came off the water and stiff southerly breeze had set in making it a bit difficult to trailer the boat. Thank goodness there was a shoreline angler who offered to assist me. You can always find good people on the river!

I caught 10 bass on plastics. The 2.5" tube worked well, as well as, the C.W. Delight with a flutter head jig. Two fish really "thunked" the baits. However, the other eight were mush mouthing the lures. The C.W. hook ups were barely even hanging on and the lure fell out easily once I got the fish to hand.

Here is one of the "cookie cutter" 14.75" smallies from Thursday's trip hanging on to a 2.5" mudpie tube from Thursday's trip.



I tried numerous lures on Thursday...
Lucky Craft 78
Lucky Craft 100
Lucky Craft XD
Homemade black hair jig
Homemade black hair jig with trailer (U2 Pork by Uncle Josh)
Floating Swim Bait
Sinking Swim Bait
Winco Drag Bait (new!)
C.W. Delight - Various Colors
3.5" Rite-Bite Tubes - Various Colors
2.5" Tube in Black/Red and Mudpie

I gave each lure ample time to see if the smallies would be enticed to bite. So, I probably spent a good 60+ minutes or more on each style of lure - jerkbait, hair jig, swim bait, and plastics.

As the afternoon wore on, the cloud cover and winds grew. The front was quickly approaching. The bite picked up some, but not as much as I would liked to have seen.

Now, the long wait until our beloved Susquehanna River returns to "boatable/fishable" levels. We may see the river surpass the flood stage before all is said and done.

dad