Friday, April 30, 2010
Striper Fishing With My Buddy, Mike... Great Day!
I had the pleasure of fishing with Mike Burton on the Susquehanna Flats for stripers today. Well... let's say we were going largemouth fishing and the Flats looked so inviting.
Mike has a Snyder true jon boat that doesn't do well in a major chop. We didn't have to worry much about that today. However, by the afternoon, there was a decent southerly wind blowing that slowed us down a bit on our run back to the ramp.
We met at my home at 5:00 a.m. for the ride to Maryland. There were only two other boats in the parking lot when we arrived. Lunching was a bit tricky since we were in low tide. But once we got the Snyder off the trailer, I could pull the trailer back up and over the lip of the ramp rather easily.
What a beautiful day!!
The water temperature on the Flats was in the upper 50's at 6:30 a.m. and rose to the lower 60's by 2:00 p.m. We had a blue bird sky all day long. The air temperature was around 50 degrees in the morning and got into the lower 80's by afternoon.
We tried several lures today until we zoned in on the jerkbait. I threw a large Rat'L Trap, crankbait, and soft plastic jig without success. The jerkbait was the ticket.
Mike got on the board with the first three stripers. He was tossing a LC 125 that he purchased for a decent price (50% off... Say what!?), thank goodness, because he lost the one he was using... clip failure.
We caught so many schooling stripers that I eventually lost count. It was a hay day for them. What a fun time. We were catching stipers from a pound to about eight pounds.
Here is a decent striper I caught near the end of our trip:
Mike and I have been fishing the Flats for stripers for a long, long time and we never seem to hit it right. Well, today was right!
Thanks to Mike for taking me on this adventure. I had a great time.
Dad
Mike has a Snyder true jon boat that doesn't do well in a major chop. We didn't have to worry much about that today. However, by the afternoon, there was a decent southerly wind blowing that slowed us down a bit on our run back to the ramp.
We met at my home at 5:00 a.m. for the ride to Maryland. There were only two other boats in the parking lot when we arrived. Lunching was a bit tricky since we were in low tide. But once we got the Snyder off the trailer, I could pull the trailer back up and over the lip of the ramp rather easily.
What a beautiful day!!
The water temperature on the Flats was in the upper 50's at 6:30 a.m. and rose to the lower 60's by 2:00 p.m. We had a blue bird sky all day long. The air temperature was around 50 degrees in the morning and got into the lower 80's by afternoon.
We tried several lures today until we zoned in on the jerkbait. I threw a large Rat'L Trap, crankbait, and soft plastic jig without success. The jerkbait was the ticket.
Mike got on the board with the first three stripers. He was tossing a LC 125 that he purchased for a decent price (50% off... Say what!?), thank goodness, because he lost the one he was using... clip failure.
We caught so many schooling stripers that I eventually lost count. It was a hay day for them. What a fun time. We were catching stipers from a pound to about eight pounds.
Here is a decent striper I caught near the end of our trip:
Mike and I have been fishing the Flats for stripers for a long, long time and we never seem to hit it right. Well, today was right!
Thanks to Mike for taking me on this adventure. I had a great time.
Dad
Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission Upcoming June 2010 Meetings
I hope that all interested Susquehanna River smallmouth anglers who would like to hear about the status of the smallmouth and join in discussion will attend one of these meetings:
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Windy, Sunny, Rising Water 04/29/10
Hello Folks,
I launched from the Swatara Creek Access today and fished up along the creek bank before venturing onto the windy river conditions. It was definitely a lot worse going out this morning than running back!
The wind was blowing strong in the morning and seemed to be between 15-20 mph with greater gusts. I had white caps on the water. The breeze diminished as the day progressed to about 10-15 mph. It was a bit easier run back to the ramp. I didn't get beat up as much in the modV.
The river was rising throughout the day and was a little over 5' when I launched and 5.32' when I returned at 3:00 p.m. That's approximately a 3.6" rise throughout the day.
I launched around 8:30 a.m. and caught one 14" bass on a spinnerbait in the creek. I met a couple of kayak anglers who were staying out of the wind today and fishing the lower Swattie. I don't blame them. It would have been a killer for them to be out on the main stem in all that wind.
After fishing the creek for the first hour of the day, I decided to run north and see what I could do on the main river. The water was rather dirty as I approached the Dock Street Dam. The "cleaner" (far from clear) water was running in the middle.
The east shoreline was a dirty brown and getting worse. Below New Cumberland on the west shoreline, the water was a better quality with a visibility of 2.5'.
The creek was showing a temperature of 49.8 degrees. The main river fluctuated between 52.2 degrees and 53 degrees. It wasn't that much of a rise even with the blue bird sky I had today.
I was able to catch only two bass the entire windy day. Although I threw crankbaits, jerkbaits, and tubes, the spinnerbait helped me not get skunked.
Take Care,
Dad
p.s. There was a glitch in my I-Kam sunglasses. I couldn't reset the date and time. Therefore, I'll be returning this pair for a brand new pair. Let's hope all goes well with the new sunglasses so I can get back out there and make more I-Kam videos!
I launched from the Swatara Creek Access today and fished up along the creek bank before venturing onto the windy river conditions. It was definitely a lot worse going out this morning than running back!
The wind was blowing strong in the morning and seemed to be between 15-20 mph with greater gusts. I had white caps on the water. The breeze diminished as the day progressed to about 10-15 mph. It was a bit easier run back to the ramp. I didn't get beat up as much in the modV.
The river was rising throughout the day and was a little over 5' when I launched and 5.32' when I returned at 3:00 p.m. That's approximately a 3.6" rise throughout the day.
I launched around 8:30 a.m. and caught one 14" bass on a spinnerbait in the creek. I met a couple of kayak anglers who were staying out of the wind today and fishing the lower Swattie. I don't blame them. It would have been a killer for them to be out on the main stem in all that wind.
After fishing the creek for the first hour of the day, I decided to run north and see what I could do on the main river. The water was rather dirty as I approached the Dock Street Dam. The "cleaner" (far from clear) water was running in the middle.
The east shoreline was a dirty brown and getting worse. Below New Cumberland on the west shoreline, the water was a better quality with a visibility of 2.5'.
The creek was showing a temperature of 49.8 degrees. The main river fluctuated between 52.2 degrees and 53 degrees. It wasn't that much of a rise even with the blue bird sky I had today.
I was able to catch only two bass the entire windy day. Although I threw crankbaits, jerkbaits, and tubes, the spinnerbait helped me not get skunked.
Take Care,
Dad
p.s. There was a glitch in my I-Kam sunglasses. I couldn't reset the date and time. Therefore, I'll be returning this pair for a brand new pair. Let's hope all goes well with the new sunglasses so I can get back out there and make more I-Kam videos!
Maine Striper Fishing Season Highlights: Super Fly Charters
Check out some of our awesome highlights from the 2009 Maine Striped Bass season...The 2010 saltwater fishing season is right around the corner...Book your trip today...dates are going fast!!!
Hunting RM30, 000 in Lake Kenyir
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| Minister of General (four from right), to submit contributions to the program Boat On The Road in 2010 to Bill in LTSM, Kuala Terengganu, last Sunday. Also present were (from left), Toh, Za'abar and Mazlan and Kamal (right). |
Rake RM10, 000 for winning a fishing program 'Boat on The Road' in Lake Kenyir, Terengganu on May 7 to 9 is multiplied by the offer of RM20, 000 from the State Government to the participants who received the dragon fish (Arapaima gigas).
The three-day program organized by TV3 and The Star Rods Unit in collaboration with the State Government to help promote sport fishing in the lake as well as various new tourism products there.
For the success of such programs, the Chief Minister, Datuk Ahmad Said, deliver donations of RM150, 000 to finance the cost of penganjurannya the Executive Director News and Editorial Operations Media Prima, Datuk Ahmad A Talib, the Sultan Mahmud Airport (LTSM) here. The state government earlier offered RM10, 000 to the angler who managed to raise the fish from the Amazon is said to be released into Lake Kenyir, to avoid the propagation and the threat to local fish species.
"Any one who has the dragon fish receiving RM10, 000 and in conjunction with this program gift increased to RM20, 000," he said.
Also present at the press conference that the State Secretary, Datuk Mazlan Ngah, Chairman of the Committee of Industry, Trade and Environment states, Toh Chin Yaw, Chairman of the Committee of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Heritage states Za'abar Datuk Mohd Adib, Author and Editor Tongue Berita Harian, Kamal Ahmad.
Ahmad said the fishing program is scheduled to be held on the River Mandak, Tasik Kenyir and enforce the concept of catch and release. Target species is toman fish and other opportunities to obtain kalui sebarau, Baung, and Tapah. Meanwhile, Ahmad said, the program is expected to involve 150 to 200 participants take 50 four-wheel drive vehicle (4x4) doing convoy of Sri Pentas, Kuala Lumpur to Tasik Kenyir at 8 am, May 7 through Kemaman and Dungun before entering the road shortcut to Bukit Besi and direction we have to Tasik Kenyir.
Program 'Boat On The Road' was organized in conjunction with the release slot Rods TV3 Tour scheduled to air mid-May.
"TV3 and Berita Harian are pleased that leaders such as Datuk Ahmad Said willing to participate in this convoy and led the expedition. We are very proud of the willingness to cooperate with government and contribute to the success of this program.
"We are confident this program will help promote Tasik Kenyir, Terengganu Government and the City as a very attractive fishing destination in the country," he said.
In related developments, Ahmad told each participant to enjoy a RM250 fee packages at resort hotels, dinners and gifts. Participants also enjoyed dinner at seven times the boat is equipped with most satellite television.
"This program not only fish but enjoy the travel and meals are quite exciting," he said. For more information: 013-3310166 (Umbai) / 019-3419991 (Kamal).
For the success of such programs, the Chief Minister, Datuk Ahmad Said, deliver donations of RM150, 000 to finance the cost of penganjurannya the Executive Director News and Editorial Operations Media Prima, Datuk Ahmad A Talib, the Sultan Mahmud Airport (LTSM) here. The state government earlier offered RM10, 000 to the angler who managed to raise the fish from the Amazon is said to be released into Lake Kenyir, to avoid the propagation and the threat to local fish species.
"Any one who has the dragon fish receiving RM10, 000 and in conjunction with this program gift increased to RM20, 000," he said.
Also present at the press conference that the State Secretary, Datuk Mazlan Ngah, Chairman of the Committee of Industry, Trade and Environment states, Toh Chin Yaw, Chairman of the Committee of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Heritage states Za'abar Datuk Mohd Adib, Author and Editor Tongue Berita Harian, Kamal Ahmad.
Ahmad said the fishing program is scheduled to be held on the River Mandak, Tasik Kenyir and enforce the concept of catch and release. Target species is toman fish and other opportunities to obtain kalui sebarau, Baung, and Tapah. Meanwhile, Ahmad said, the program is expected to involve 150 to 200 participants take 50 four-wheel drive vehicle (4x4) doing convoy of Sri Pentas, Kuala Lumpur to Tasik Kenyir at 8 am, May 7 through Kemaman and Dungun before entering the road shortcut to Bukit Besi and direction we have to Tasik Kenyir.
Program 'Boat On The Road' was organized in conjunction with the release slot Rods TV3 Tour scheduled to air mid-May.
"TV3 and Berita Harian are pleased that leaders such as Datuk Ahmad Said willing to participate in this convoy and led the expedition. We are very proud of the willingness to cooperate with government and contribute to the success of this program.
"We are confident this program will help promote Tasik Kenyir, Terengganu Government and the City as a very attractive fishing destination in the country," he said.
In related developments, Ahmad told each participant to enjoy a RM250 fee packages at resort hotels, dinners and gifts. Participants also enjoyed dinner at seven times the boat is equipped with most satellite television.
"This program not only fish but enjoy the travel and meals are quite exciting," he said. For more information: 013-3310166 (Umbai) / 019-3419991 (Kamal).
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Steady action is the name of the game
If I haven't posted in a while, the fishing is good.
It hasn't been great, but it has been steady.
We've been fishing Sarasota Bay off Stephens Point and doing quite well on spotted seatrout to 5 pounds. The number of "slot" trout has been amazing. The average fish has been 17 inches, with numerous trout to 20 inches. Most are being taken on D.O.A. CAL Jigs with gold paddle tails, MirrOlure MirrOdines, D.O.A. Deadly Combinations and my Big Eye Baitfish Fly.
The Spanish mackerel, bluefish and pompano that were so plentiful just a couple of weeks ago have disappeared.
Good news: Snook are showing up under the lights. I've encountered them most every time out as of late. My friend, Rick Grassett, caught one recently that helped him win the Fly Division of the Sarasota CCA spring tournament. It was the only snook entered!
Perley Welch of New Hampshire (below right)joined me for a half-day of fishing and caught a number of fish. It was his first saltwater outing. Perley managed spotted seatrout to 20 inches, ladyfish and flounder.
John did hook up briefly on a snook just before daylight.
I've got a new Native Watercraft Ultimate 14.5 ordered. It should be here by mid-June. That will give me three Ultimate 14.5s. I sold the two Heritage Redfish 12 Anglers.
I received my new TFO spinning rods. Wow! That's all I can say. They're everything I thought they'd be -- and more! They're light and strong. I'm impressed.
Beach snook season is starting. First trip is scheduled in just a few days, but I'm not sure we'll get it in. West wind has the surf really stirred up. We should enter our spring pattern of east wind soon.
Beach snook angling is my favorite. It's totally sight-fishing and leads to some very exciting action. If you have never done it, give me a call (941-284-3406) and book a trip. The days are filling up fast.
St Mullins fest 2010
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| Alex's first catch in St Mullins. This small flounder must travel 20miles upstream River Barrow. |
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| Our friend Martin |
Monday, April 26, 2010
Good News To Share
I bought a new cell phone cover a few weeks ago from the company Body Glove. It was a cover for an enV3. My buddy, Josh, had one on his cell phone and I needed to get a new one. I liked what I saw in his and I decided, upon recommendation from the Verizon rep, to purchase one, too.
In less than five days, I had lost the top half of the cover that just "snaps" onto the phone. When I spoke to Josh about what happened to my cell phone cover, he told me that his had snapped off a few times by getting caught on things, but he has been lucky to find his each time. I just wasn't as lucky and rather upset that this cover would do that so easily.
So, I contacted Body Glove who asked me to contact the company that produces these covers for them. A company named FELLOWES. I followed their suggestion and copy and pasted my letter to Body Glove and attached it to the new letter to FELLOWES.
Within hours, a rep from FELLOWES contacted me and asked me make a .jpg on my copy machine and send an attachment of the receipt to them for a replacement. The cover came with a one year warranty and they were willing to replace it!
I received the new cover today in less than five days. They thought it would take between 7 to 10 work days to get to my home.
I would like to thank both Body glove and FELLOWES for their fast and courteous customer service. I would highly recommend their products because they understood my concerns and were willing to correct the situation.
SO, I thought I would take a moment here to publicly show my appreciation.
Dad
In less than five days, I had lost the top half of the cover that just "snaps" onto the phone. When I spoke to Josh about what happened to my cell phone cover, he told me that his had snapped off a few times by getting caught on things, but he has been lucky to find his each time. I just wasn't as lucky and rather upset that this cover would do that so easily.
So, I contacted Body Glove who asked me to contact the company that produces these covers for them. A company named FELLOWES. I followed their suggestion and copy and pasted my letter to Body Glove and attached it to the new letter to FELLOWES.
Within hours, a rep from FELLOWES contacted me and asked me make a .jpg on my copy machine and send an attachment of the receipt to them for a replacement. The cover came with a one year warranty and they were willing to replace it!
I received the new cover today in less than five days. They thought it would take between 7 to 10 work days to get to my home.
I would like to thank both Body glove and FELLOWES for their fast and courteous customer service. I would highly recommend their products because they understood my concerns and were willing to correct the situation.
SO, I thought I would take a moment here to publicly show my appreciation.
Dad
Squid Jigging (MENCANDAT SOTONG)
Squid Jigging fishing season and come again. The legs and feet pencandat squid fishing! it is time for you to come down to the sea to carry out this exciting. Squid Jigging season again this year with results that will satisfy. Squid Jigging Let's go over the coastal waters are rich in fishery resources and sea products.Fact candat squid.
Time-to: the MACH month - July
Place: waters
Types of squid: squid ketupat, squid needle, mengabang squid, cuttlefish torok, cumit-cumit,
Type candat: candat Twist, candat bamboo, candat dead, fish bait, bait shrimp
Candat large squid and fresh can dicandat in local waters this season. Do not miss the opportunity.
With the cooperation of the local Fishermen's Association, we can help you to book a boat and related equipment to get Squid Jigging. With the comfort and security boats meet safety regulations and register with the local Fishermen's Association, the boat fare and reservation is dependent on the size of the boat and engine types used.
Reservations are subject to the reservations and also depending on availability. For further information contact 012-9488958.
A Squid Jigging trip depends on the location candat. depending on the fuel used for the location and wage Tekong. Normally, expenses for a trip is RM 550.00 to RM 700.00. However this depends on the negotiations with the boat owner.
According to the present observation of catch per boat is estimated to be about 50-70 kilograms of squid. This depends on the skills pencandat.
Maine Saltwater Fishing Reports 2010
Maine Striper Fishing Reports
Well...I spent the day working on the "Super Fly", the hull has been cleaned & waxed...twice!!! The brand new blingin' color Raymarine electronics installed. Just a few more loose ends to tie up and she's ready to splash!!!
For those of you who don't know, the " Super Fly" is our Beaufort, NC built 21' Parker CC Special Edition. Parker has building boats for well over 30 years, built & designed to run the treacherous waters of North Carolina's Outer Banks. Parker has built a legendary & well deserved reputation among top east coast guides.
After running several smaller, able, yet less capable, skiffs, off the coast of Maine & Florida, we think we've found the ultimate fly & light tackle fishing skiff for fishing the rugged New Enland coast.
With it's 10 inch draft the "Super Fly" can easily fish the skinny water of the flats. With it's elevated casting platform on front deck, our anglers can easily sight & cast to their quarry...on the platform the anglers eye's are almost on the same level as your guides, no more worrying about casting to the numbers of a clock, you'll see your target.
Safety, client comfort & fishability were all qualities that drew me to Parker boats. The wide beam and Carolina flared bow will keep you dry & comfortable when that afternoon seabreeze kicks up a tide chop.
Our boat is as capable chasing " Football" Bluefin Tuna off the Maine coast as it is on the flats. With its mid thigh gunnels you'll be able to brace yourself as we race to intercept a school of "Blitzing" fish to get you in posistion to make that long cast to the boiling tuna.
For the livebait enthusiast, We have rigged the "Super Fly" with two massive forty gallon livewells each fed by dual high capacity raw water pumps. We can carry all the live bait necessary for a full day on the water. Those Maine stripers wont stand a chance when we drift down over that ledge with some live "swimmers" in the water. Also ask about our "Bait & Switch" techniques for Fly & Light Tackle anglers...you wont believe how well it works!!!
Reservations continue to come in for the 2010 Maine Striper fishing season
Call us today to set up a time before all dates fill!!!
Capt. George Harris
207-691-0745
www.superfly-charters.com
Check back often for Maine Striper & Tuna fishing reports!!!
Well...I spent the day working on the "Super Fly", the hull has been cleaned & waxed...twice!!! The brand new blingin' color Raymarine electronics installed. Just a few more loose ends to tie up and she's ready to splash!!!
For those of you who don't know, the " Super Fly" is our Beaufort, NC built 21' Parker CC Special Edition. Parker has building boats for well over 30 years, built & designed to run the treacherous waters of North Carolina's Outer Banks. Parker has built a legendary & well deserved reputation among top east coast guides.
After running several smaller, able, yet less capable, skiffs, off the coast of Maine & Florida, we think we've found the ultimate fly & light tackle fishing skiff for fishing the rugged New Enland coast.
With it's 10 inch draft the "Super Fly" can easily fish the skinny water of the flats. With it's elevated casting platform on front deck, our anglers can easily sight & cast to their quarry...on the platform the anglers eye's are almost on the same level as your guides, no more worrying about casting to the numbers of a clock, you'll see your target.
Safety, client comfort & fishability were all qualities that drew me to Parker boats. The wide beam and Carolina flared bow will keep you dry & comfortable when that afternoon seabreeze kicks up a tide chop.
Our boat is as capable chasing " Football" Bluefin Tuna off the Maine coast as it is on the flats. With its mid thigh gunnels you'll be able to brace yourself as we race to intercept a school of "Blitzing" fish to get you in posistion to make that long cast to the boiling tuna.
For the livebait enthusiast, We have rigged the "Super Fly" with two massive forty gallon livewells each fed by dual high capacity raw water pumps. We can carry all the live bait necessary for a full day on the water. Those Maine stripers wont stand a chance when we drift down over that ledge with some live "swimmers" in the water. Also ask about our "Bait & Switch" techniques for Fly & Light Tackle anglers...you wont believe how well it works!!!
Reservations continue to come in for the 2010 Maine Striper fishing season
Call us today to set up a time before all dates fill!!!
Capt. George Harris
207-691-0745
www.superfly-charters.com
Check back often for Maine Striper & Tuna fishing reports!!!
RIVER EREWASH SOCIAL ,Foremark reservoir
great days fishing at foremark with mick and
kev making it early before 9.00 with me getting
there after 10.00 and ady coming down after lunch.
ady with a unexpected perch.
mick with a nice rainbow which fought like a tiger
we had a river erewash foundation socialat foremark
yesterday with loads of fishtaken mostly on the
buzzers.we had expected about 8 to turn up but ended
up with only 4 due to the weather forecast being crap.
mick won the day with over 30 fish thebiggest pushing
5lb,my best around 4lb managing 20 odd fish.nearly
all my fish came to buzzers apart from one on a claret
bumble ady managed a nice perch as well on a small buzzer.
great day out
kev making it early before 9.00 with me getting
there after 10.00 and ady coming down after lunch.
ady with a unexpected perch.
mick with a nice rainbow which fought like a tiger
we had a river erewash foundation socialat foremark
yesterday with loads of fishtaken mostly on the
buzzers.we had expected about 8 to turn up but ended
up with only 4 due to the weather forecast being crap.
mick won the day with over 30 fish thebiggest pushing
5lb,my best around 4lb managing 20 odd fish.nearly
all my fish came to buzzers apart from one on a claret
bumble ady managed a nice perch as well on a small buzzer.
great day out
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Lake Aldred, Susquehanna River 04/23/10
Hello Folks,
I hope you enjoyed the I-Kam video I made yesterday. I actually made several videos, but most failed to make the passing grade for my standards to show here. I promise to continue to work at it and get better with practice.
Welcome to My Home Waters...
I did fish yesterday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. I caught 16 bass on a spinnerbait and a lipless crankbait. By far, the crankbait was the winning lure for me yesterday. I believe the bright bluebird sky had a lot to do with it's success.
I started by fishing in the Pequea Creek and the headed up river from the ramp and worked slowly through the rock garden throughout the day.
The creek's water temperature was only 52.6 degrees, but the river ran from 57.6 in the main flow to 62.3 degrees in the back coves where all the carp were hanging out and doing acrobatic jumps... Cool! It's not yet time for them to spawn, but they sure are staging.
The air temp was 38 degrees when I awoke and it rose to 41 degrees at breakfast. By the time I reached the launch, it had risen to 47 degrees. Still rather chilly for the run onto the river. By 3:30 p.m., the air temp was a nice 65 degrees and very pleasant.
Most of my fish came out of moving water. The power plants were definitely pushing water from Safe Harbor and sucking it down through Holtwood Dam. That, to me, is the best scenario as long as the depth doesn't fluctuate to drastically.
There are several scenarios when fishing river lakes which are created between two dams. One can face a situation where (1) neither the upper or lower dam is moving much water at all. It seems almost stagnant, but the law requires some movement for oxidation. Another situation would be (2) that the upper dam is dumping/pushing water and the lower dam is not pulling much. The third (3) situation would be if the upper is not pushing much water but the lower dam is pulling heavily. And the fourth (4) scenario is when the upper dam is dumping heavily and the lower dam is pulling hard.
As you can see, an angler has to adapt to each dams' scenario (joke intended), as well as, the depth of the river. It makes for a very interesting and often different trip each and every time you go on an adventure.
I took several pics while on the water:
Lunch on a Rock Island:
Dad's Jet Rig... all decked out!
A couple of scenic shots as I ate lunch.
You can see why I love this part of the river so much. Although the fishing can be challenging, it is not impossible to have a "decent" day here. One needs to be extremely careful with the heavy current created by the dams. Having the MK 101 36 volt system provides greater safety for me as I negotiate in and around the numerous boulders and rocky ledges while struggling with the current.
I had the pleasure of observing two flying mature Bald Eagles. These two eagles are a little older than five years and have finally gotten their entire set of white feathers.
The PFBC has reported this area as the worst YoY areas on the river. However, if you work hard, stay patient, and persevere, you will catch fish.
Dad
I hope you enjoyed the I-Kam video I made yesterday. I actually made several videos, but most failed to make the passing grade for my standards to show here. I promise to continue to work at it and get better with practice.
Welcome to My Home Waters...
I did fish yesterday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. I caught 16 bass on a spinnerbait and a lipless crankbait. By far, the crankbait was the winning lure for me yesterday. I believe the bright bluebird sky had a lot to do with it's success.
I started by fishing in the Pequea Creek and the headed up river from the ramp and worked slowly through the rock garden throughout the day.
The creek's water temperature was only 52.6 degrees, but the river ran from 57.6 in the main flow to 62.3 degrees in the back coves where all the carp were hanging out and doing acrobatic jumps... Cool! It's not yet time for them to spawn, but they sure are staging.
The air temp was 38 degrees when I awoke and it rose to 41 degrees at breakfast. By the time I reached the launch, it had risen to 47 degrees. Still rather chilly for the run onto the river. By 3:30 p.m., the air temp was a nice 65 degrees and very pleasant.
Most of my fish came out of moving water. The power plants were definitely pushing water from Safe Harbor and sucking it down through Holtwood Dam. That, to me, is the best scenario as long as the depth doesn't fluctuate to drastically.
There are several scenarios when fishing river lakes which are created between two dams. One can face a situation where (1) neither the upper or lower dam is moving much water at all. It seems almost stagnant, but the law requires some movement for oxidation. Another situation would be (2) that the upper dam is dumping/pushing water and the lower dam is not pulling much. The third (3) situation would be if the upper is not pushing much water but the lower dam is pulling heavily. And the fourth (4) scenario is when the upper dam is dumping heavily and the lower dam is pulling hard.
As you can see, an angler has to adapt to each dams' scenario (joke intended), as well as, the depth of the river. It makes for a very interesting and often different trip each and every time you go on an adventure.
I took several pics while on the water:
Lunch on a Rock Island:
Dad's Jet Rig... all decked out!
A couple of scenic shots as I ate lunch.
You can see why I love this part of the river so much. Although the fishing can be challenging, it is not impossible to have a "decent" day here. One needs to be extremely careful with the heavy current created by the dams. Having the MK 101 36 volt system provides greater safety for me as I negotiate in and around the numerous boulders and rocky ledges while struggling with the current.
I had the pleasure of observing two flying mature Bald Eagles. These two eagles are a little older than five years and have finally gotten their entire set of white feathers.
The PFBC has reported this area as the worst YoY areas on the river. However, if you work hard, stay patient, and persevere, you will catch fish.
Dad
Friday, April 23, 2010
Lipless Crankbait/Reading Water
A Lesson On Lipless Crankbaits and Reading Water (Excuse The Wind... Very Windy from The NW)
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Medical Day... Earth Day
It's been 40 years since Earth Day began. I can remember how a small movement became a world-wide effort. Can you remember the "Crying Indian" commercial on television?
Do what you can to save the environment.
My wife took a FMLA Day to be with me today. We started our day, even before breakfast, by going to the local medical center. I needed a CAT Without Contrast Scan for pulmonary nodules that were identified during one of my liver scans a year ago. I've had four CAT Scans since that discovery in order to keep track of any growth or new nodules... Ruling out cancer. So far, things have remain basically the same.
We will continue this testing for a two year period of time. The Pulmonologist believes that the nodules are scar tissue from past episodes with pneumonia. WE can only be sure over time.
My wife is a juvenile diabetic and had to have blood drawn at the same medical center for her A1C (Gluco-hemoglobin Test) test. This test result shows how controlled her blood sugars have been over a three month period of time.
After these two tests were completed, we headed to breakfast at a local restaurant. We still had one more hospital to get to by 10:30 a.m.
We arrived at another hospital for my pain management. I have been receiving series of three epidural steroid injections for lower back pain and numbness in my legs. Today was my last injection in this series. I have had four separate series over the past few years. Success is determined by relief for at least a six month period of time. My last series actually held my pain for over a year and a half. If the epidurals fail to help, it is a strong indicator that surgery is required. I keep my fingers crossed that they continue to give me relief.
When the doctor injects steroids into me, it plays havoc with my blood sugars. I have been on insulin for about two months now. I had started out on metformin for a number of years, but it wasn't cutting it anymore and I was placed on Lantus. I started with a basal rate of 10 units. I have currently and slowly worked up to 24 units. I suspect a few more units will be needed to bring me back into a normal range of blood sugars.
I'm hoping to be back on the water tomorrow if my back is okay when I awake.
Your health, like that of our Earth, is extremely important. We have no idea how many people we have a positive effect on in our lives, They need us to be with them for years to come.
Take care,
Dad
Do what you can to save the environment.
My wife took a FMLA Day to be with me today. We started our day, even before breakfast, by going to the local medical center. I needed a CAT Without Contrast Scan for pulmonary nodules that were identified during one of my liver scans a year ago. I've had four CAT Scans since that discovery in order to keep track of any growth or new nodules... Ruling out cancer. So far, things have remain basically the same.
We will continue this testing for a two year period of time. The Pulmonologist believes that the nodules are scar tissue from past episodes with pneumonia. WE can only be sure over time.
My wife is a juvenile diabetic and had to have blood drawn at the same medical center for her A1C (Gluco-hemoglobin Test) test. This test result shows how controlled her blood sugars have been over a three month period of time.
After these two tests were completed, we headed to breakfast at a local restaurant. We still had one more hospital to get to by 10:30 a.m.
We arrived at another hospital for my pain management. I have been receiving series of three epidural steroid injections for lower back pain and numbness in my legs. Today was my last injection in this series. I have had four separate series over the past few years. Success is determined by relief for at least a six month period of time. My last series actually held my pain for over a year and a half. If the epidurals fail to help, it is a strong indicator that surgery is required. I keep my fingers crossed that they continue to give me relief.
When the doctor injects steroids into me, it plays havoc with my blood sugars. I have been on insulin for about two months now. I had started out on metformin for a number of years, but it wasn't cutting it anymore and I was placed on Lantus. I started with a basal rate of 10 units. I have currently and slowly worked up to 24 units. I suspect a few more units will be needed to bring me back into a normal range of blood sugars.
I'm hoping to be back on the water tomorrow if my back is okay when I awake.
Your health, like that of our Earth, is extremely important. We have no idea how many people we have a positive effect on in our lives, They need us to be with them for years to come.
Take care,
Dad
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
50 4x4 Vehicle Convoy To Kenyir
Tasik Kenyir chosen location in the 'Boat On The Road' Tour in conjunction with the promotion slot Rods TV3 involving 13 episodes starting May 16, said Executive Director of Editorial Operations News and Media Prima Berhad, Datuk Ahmad A Talib. He said, supported by the State Government as Minister of Magnitude, Datuk Ahmad Said, ready to work with the NST and TV3 help intensify tourism promotion in the lake was the largest human-Asian.
"Tasik Kenyir is known to toman, sebarau and complain than Baung. Anglers will also excited to join this program because the package offered is very menariki, "he said when presiding Rods Team about the program at the Center News, Tuesday. Ahmad said the program at 7 to 9 May. Organizers target 50 four-wheel drive vehicle (4x4) with 200 participants joined the convoy of the Sri Pentas to Lake Kenyir right at 8 am on May 7 (Friday) and is expected to arrive at Base Gawi, Tasik Kenyir about 5 pm.
Anglers who wish to participate in the program must have a 4x4 vehicle and each team must contain at least two participants and a maximum of four participants. They must bring their own boat and carried in the vehicle during convoy.
Each participant charged RM250 to enjoy the package fee, food and drink, boat house facilities, T-shirts, hats and certificates.
The program is to enforce the concept of catch and release. This means that all arrests made will be released immediately after the secretariat weighed by the competition. The program expires on May 9 (Sunday), about 4.30 pm.
Organizers also hosted a fishing tournament on the cliff base to engage the local population Gawi enliven the program. Each entry will be charged RM10 and expedition participants is free. A total of RM3, 000 is offered for this event.
Anglers interested in participating in the program Boat On The Road requested the secretariat to register by calling 03-22822323 or 013-3310166 extension 4241 (Umbai) and 016-6359023 (Osman).
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Fishing The Main Stem Below Harrisburg, Pa 04/20/10
Hello Folks,
I'm so tired right now that I'm only going to print the pic of the 20.25" smallie pigbeast I caught today on a spinnerbait along an island in moving water. She was spawned out!
Pic two didn't get her entire tail... Still learning how to use this darn camera.
I saw three eagles today. Two were sitting on top of this tower. If you look closely, you'll see the two mature eagle in the middle of the top pole.
I'll be back on later to complete a report!
Report:
A good night's sleep and I'm raring to go!
I wanted to cut the grass this morning before the showers moved in from the south. As I neared the end of my chore, drizzle started to fall. Good! I beat the rain that will be here today and tomorrow. Friday should be a nice snd sunny day, but Saturday through Tuesday... rain!
April showers are a little behind here in Pennsylvania. We are already 1.5" behind for the month and about 2.5" behind for the year.
The Susquehanna River has dropped to 4.4' at the Harrisburg, Pa. gauge. Although lower than I would like to see it at this time, I believe the next few days of showers and rain may help the river rise a bit.
I arrived at the ramp around 8:15 a.m. and readied the boat. I was on the water and fishing by 8:45 a.m. The water temperature was 53.7 degrees and the east side of the river was a bit brown, but the west shoreline was very clear. I could see to the bottom in 4.5' of water!
There is a grass island that I like to stop at early during my late spring and summer fishing adventures. As I was running up river, I decided to stop at the island just to see if I could find any bass at home.
I tossed a spinnerbait all the way around the small grassy island without a single bite. It was time to make a second pass and I picked a green pumpkin tube with a smoke pepper tail. On the second cast, I pulled in a nice 15" male.
It's funny how you can make several passes over one area with a couple of different lures and just like that, a bass will respond to one.
That was it for the island and I ran further upriver. It was shallow running in some areas, but the water was passable. I made my way to a larger island and began tossing the spinnerbait again.
I like spinnerbaits and crankbaits as "search lures". If I can get a reaction bite, I'm a happy bass angler!
Half way down the float along the island, "Oh my God!" That big 20.25" smallie inhaled the spinnerbait. Oh yea! My first 20" pigbeast of the season. What a great start to a fishing day!
I used my trolling motor to push back up the shoreline of the island while tossing a tube... No Takers!
My next move was to take a jerkbait and start tossing it in around the islands as I floated past. The JB yielded several bass in the 13"-14" range.
I moved into some faster moving water at the tip of the first island and tossed a spinnerbait once again. A nice fat chunk (14.5") smacked the spinnerbait. I had fished this spot prior to nailing that pigbeast and I had no hits. I pulled two 15" bass from this moving water on Thursday. I know that bass like this spot. After I had fished it earlier, I had made up my mind to return to it a bit later to see what mat have moved in.
I had a decent day and caught 13 bass altogether. As I mentioned in a previous blog thread, I enjoy catching fishing on numerous lures during an outing. I caught fish yesterday on... tube, spinnerbait, jerbait, crankbait, and a lipless crankbait. Five lures netted 13 bass today... Not bad!
Air temp was 45 degrees when I arrived and at 3:00 p.m., it was 66 degrees. The water temperature started out at 53.7 degrees and rose to 56.9 degrees. A 3+ degree jump... good!
Take care, folks!
Dad
I'm so tired right now that I'm only going to print the pic of the 20.25" smallie pigbeast I caught today on a spinnerbait along an island in moving water. She was spawned out!
Pic two didn't get her entire tail... Still learning how to use this darn camera.
I saw three eagles today. Two were sitting on top of this tower. If you look closely, you'll see the two mature eagle in the middle of the top pole.
I'll be back on later to complete a report!
Report:
A good night's sleep and I'm raring to go!
I wanted to cut the grass this morning before the showers moved in from the south. As I neared the end of my chore, drizzle started to fall. Good! I beat the rain that will be here today and tomorrow. Friday should be a nice snd sunny day, but Saturday through Tuesday... rain!
April showers are a little behind here in Pennsylvania. We are already 1.5" behind for the month and about 2.5" behind for the year.
The Susquehanna River has dropped to 4.4' at the Harrisburg, Pa. gauge. Although lower than I would like to see it at this time, I believe the next few days of showers and rain may help the river rise a bit.
I arrived at the ramp around 8:15 a.m. and readied the boat. I was on the water and fishing by 8:45 a.m. The water temperature was 53.7 degrees and the east side of the river was a bit brown, but the west shoreline was very clear. I could see to the bottom in 4.5' of water!
There is a grass island that I like to stop at early during my late spring and summer fishing adventures. As I was running up river, I decided to stop at the island just to see if I could find any bass at home.
I tossed a spinnerbait all the way around the small grassy island without a single bite. It was time to make a second pass and I picked a green pumpkin tube with a smoke pepper tail. On the second cast, I pulled in a nice 15" male.
It's funny how you can make several passes over one area with a couple of different lures and just like that, a bass will respond to one.
That was it for the island and I ran further upriver. It was shallow running in some areas, but the water was passable. I made my way to a larger island and began tossing the spinnerbait again.
I like spinnerbaits and crankbaits as "search lures". If I can get a reaction bite, I'm a happy bass angler!
Half way down the float along the island, "Oh my God!" That big 20.25" smallie inhaled the spinnerbait. Oh yea! My first 20" pigbeast of the season. What a great start to a fishing day!
I used my trolling motor to push back up the shoreline of the island while tossing a tube... No Takers!
My next move was to take a jerkbait and start tossing it in around the islands as I floated past. The JB yielded several bass in the 13"-14" range.
I moved into some faster moving water at the tip of the first island and tossed a spinnerbait once again. A nice fat chunk (14.5") smacked the spinnerbait. I had fished this spot prior to nailing that pigbeast and I had no hits. I pulled two 15" bass from this moving water on Thursday. I know that bass like this spot. After I had fished it earlier, I had made up my mind to return to it a bit later to see what mat have moved in.
I had a decent day and caught 13 bass altogether. As I mentioned in a previous blog thread, I enjoy catching fishing on numerous lures during an outing. I caught fish yesterday on... tube, spinnerbait, jerbait, crankbait, and a lipless crankbait. Five lures netted 13 bass today... Not bad!
Air temp was 45 degrees when I arrived and at 3:00 p.m., it was 66 degrees. The water temperature started out at 53.7 degrees and rose to 56.9 degrees. A 3+ degree jump... good!
Take care, folks!
Dad
Monday, April 19, 2010
A Litle Rant to Let Off Steam
Hello Folks,
I had a family doctor's appointment today. I thought it was scheduled at 11:55 a.m. and when I arrived, I was told it was at 11:00 a.m. I was written down as a "NO SHOW". Excuse me, I had 11:55 a.m. in my appointment book and I was standing there at 11:30 a.m. in front of the receptionist. "Hello, I'm Here!"
I have been seeing this practice for 30+ years and I bet I can count on one hand the number of "No Shows" I've ever had in that time.
Anything to get a "free" dollar out of the working man.
I have seen folks in similar situations be told to have a seat and they would work them in. For me... Nothing.
I have been contemplating leaving this practice for quite some time. A couple of years ago, the founding physician decided to retire. The practice kept his name and he became a consultant with the "company" that bought him out.
I am sitting here and wondering what practices or should I call them "medical businesses" will do once free health care goes into effect. Will the government stand for paying big "medical businesses" money for a patient's "No Show"? I'm having an extremely hard time thinking that they will.
Oh well, enough of that. I'm going to try to get on the water a few times this week as the temperature rises and the wind dies down some. It's been awful windy since the end of March, 2010.
Take Care and thank you for bearing with me,
Dad
I had a family doctor's appointment today. I thought it was scheduled at 11:55 a.m. and when I arrived, I was told it was at 11:00 a.m. I was written down as a "NO SHOW". Excuse me, I had 11:55 a.m. in my appointment book and I was standing there at 11:30 a.m. in front of the receptionist. "Hello, I'm Here!"
I have been seeing this practice for 30+ years and I bet I can count on one hand the number of "No Shows" I've ever had in that time.
Anything to get a "free" dollar out of the working man.
I have seen folks in similar situations be told to have a seat and they would work them in. For me... Nothing.
I have been contemplating leaving this practice for quite some time. A couple of years ago, the founding physician decided to retire. The practice kept his name and he became a consultant with the "company" that bought him out.
I am sitting here and wondering what practices or should I call them "medical businesses" will do once free health care goes into effect. Will the government stand for paying big "medical businesses" money for a patient's "No Show"? I'm having an extremely hard time thinking that they will.
Oh well, enough of that. I'm going to try to get on the water a few times this week as the temperature rises and the wind dies down some. It's been awful windy since the end of March, 2010.
Take Care and thank you for bearing with me,
Dad
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Tasik Kenyir Gesture Visitors
Anglers will change the perception of heaven HULU TERENGGANU: Tourism facilities in Tasik Kenyir be upgraded in order to attract more domestic tourists, especially families who take holidays in the largest man-made lake in Southeast Asia, said the Ajil State Assemblyman, Datuk Rosol Wahid.
He said this when Lake Kenyir is known as 'Paradise anglers' view of the rich variety of fish species and only visited the anglers who want a fun fight to defeat or sebarau toman fish.
"We try to change the public perception of the Lake Kenyir. As a first step the state government through the Central Terengganu Development Authority (KETENGAH) is developing a Bird Park, Butterfly Park and various water sports that could be identified included all ages of visitors.
"At the same time we are also repairing some facilities such as camp sites to enable the public to bring their families camped in the woods. Trails as well as to facilitate the public to enjoy the scenery and move to recognize flora and fauna found in the lake, "he said participated in the Tasik Kenyir Xplorasi Media in 2010, recently.
Tasik Kenyir is the formation yield of about 340 small islands, which also includes 14 waterfalls, river and stream waters. In the forest there are over 8,000 species of flowers, about 2.500 of trees and plants, 800 species of orchids and 300 fungi and mushrooms.
Tasik Kenyir is also inhabit the island is over 1,000 species of butterflies, small seranggang, 370 species of birds such as hornbills, eagles, doves, merbuk, pigeon, Tiong and others. Similarly, there are sanctuaries of elephants, tigers, bears, deer, mouse, leopards and snakes that can be visited by the public.
While two of the caves and Faithful Bewah developed KETENGAH now entered the public to see a closer look into the incident and stalagmait stalaktait therein.
Rosol said, is very detrimental to the visitors who come to Lake Kenyir to fish alone, but they can be closer look
"With the cooperation of the Department of Wildlife (wildlife), a number of sanctuaries established and most famous charge at River Worm. In these sanctuaries, visitors can bathing Manda and hold the king of freshwater fish is, however, the public are advised not to harm fish, "he said.
He said the base Gawi the main entrance to the Kenyir Lake has held a variety of interesting activities on an annual basis to enable travelers from within and outside the country come here.
"These challenges Kenyir International Bicycle Hill, Kenyir Lake International Triathlon Championships, the International Competition Kenyir Motocross and Cycling GATEH XPDC. Similarly, the international fishing competition that saw entries from Taiwan, Hong Kong and China recently.
"In addition, we will try to introduce some new water sports to ensure that the Lake Kenyir further noted that various activities. It indirectly Kenyir Lake as the location of choice Aqua-Eco-tourism in the region, "he said.
Rosol said the presence of visitors is expected to spill into Lake Kenyir it will also be enjoyed by the Hulu Terengganu particular direction we are a tourist boat operator, to trade food and drinks and souvenirs.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
April 17 Through June 11, 2010
Please remember: The 2010 Pennsylvania Fishing Summary
NOTE: It is not a violation of the bass regulations if a bass is immediately returned unharmed to the waters from which it was taken. It is unlawful for an angler to cast repeatedly into a clearly visible bass spawning nest or redd in an effort to catch or take bass.
One can continue to bass fish with an immediate release. If an angler is seen repeatedly tossing to visible spawning beds, they can be fined. No one is above the law.
There will be no tournaments during this time period for a reason. To prevent the taking of bass from the bed and to give the fry a fighting chance for survival.
Go at it come June 12, 2010!
Dad
NOTE: It is not a violation of the bass regulations if a bass is immediately returned unharmed to the waters from which it was taken. It is unlawful for an angler to cast repeatedly into a clearly visible bass spawning nest or redd in an effort to catch or take bass.
One can continue to bass fish with an immediate release. If an angler is seen repeatedly tossing to visible spawning beds, they can be fined. No one is above the law.
There will be no tournaments during this time period for a reason. To prevent the taking of bass from the bed and to give the fry a fighting chance for survival.
Go at it come June 12, 2010!
Dad
Friday, April 16, 2010
Fishing Below Harrisburg, Pa - 04/15/10
Hello Folks,
This has been a long stretch of fishing, fer shure!
I have been on the water 9 days out of the past 11. It all started April 5th when I fished the Susquehanna Flats with Mike Burton and landed a few nice largemouth bass on a lipless crankbait. (By the way, Mike won his club's tournament this past Sunday from that spot on, you guessed it, a lipless crankbait. Way to go, Mike!) Then, for three days straight, I fished the Susquehanna River below Harrisburg, Pa. From April 11 to April 14, I was on the North Branch of the Susquehanna River with Josh chasing smallies in the "Land of Oz". Yesterday, I was back out on the river below Harrisburg, Pa. on a beautiful blue bird sky day.
It was rather cold in the morning when I headed to George's for breakfast. I hung around the restaurant for about 90 minutes eating breakfast, reading the morning newspaper, and doing the puzzles to keep my mind active. You never know at my age when the mind wants to give out on you... LOL.
I got to the ramp around 9:00 a.m. and checked out the condition of the water. It had cleared nicely and had fallen about a foot since my last outing. The predictor showed the water level at 4.67' at the Harrisburg gauge around 8:00 a.m. So, I took time to retie lures since I still had my NB specials tied on from our trip north.
I finally got on the water and fishing around 9:30 a.m. I ran north to a few spots I like in the early spring and proceeded to nail this beautiful 18.5" smallie on a plastic tube...
I have a new camera and I'm still learning how to use it outside in the bright sunshine. Another thing that compounded the problem was that I just bought a better seat for myself to fish from on the front deck. I have to now learn where on that seat I can place this new camera and get shots like the old camera I used. As you can see, I'm still learning. Here was my second failed attempt to show the entire fish...
You can tell by these botched photos that the fish was a "chunko"! Oh well, I hope to get better with more practice.
She appeared to have spawned out because her belly was gone... She was well fed, though.
This bass was a good lesson in perseverance. I caught this girl from an island that I first had tossed a spinnerbait while drifting down river. I turned around and using my trolling motor, moved back upriver tossing a lipless crankbait... Nada! On my return drift down river, I picked up the plastic tube and caught her in a spot I had just tossed the spinnerbait and lipless crank into. She didn't want the other two, but she slammed the tube!
The water temp had dropped over 10 degrees since we had those nice warm days last week. The drop didn't seem to have much effect my catch today and I put a dozen bass into the boat.
What I found cool was that I caught bass on every different style of lure I threw... a plastic tube, crankbait, jerkbait, and spinnerbait. I am not a "numbers" man, but I see myself as someone who will try as many lures as possible to see what kind of bite I can get going. I find it exciting to catch fish on a number of lures rather than a ton of fish on one bait.
The bass are starting to become more active in chasing moving lures. A recent tournament in this area proved that with the winners tossing a moving lure.
We might see a great spring of fishing like we did last year. Last year, we had an early warm spell that spurred the big mommas to spawn early. They recovered and we had a great spring of catching big fish on moving baits.
Take care!
Dad
This has been a long stretch of fishing, fer shure!
I have been on the water 9 days out of the past 11. It all started April 5th when I fished the Susquehanna Flats with Mike Burton and landed a few nice largemouth bass on a lipless crankbait. (By the way, Mike won his club's tournament this past Sunday from that spot on, you guessed it, a lipless crankbait. Way to go, Mike!) Then, for three days straight, I fished the Susquehanna River below Harrisburg, Pa. From April 11 to April 14, I was on the North Branch of the Susquehanna River with Josh chasing smallies in the "Land of Oz". Yesterday, I was back out on the river below Harrisburg, Pa. on a beautiful blue bird sky day.
It was rather cold in the morning when I headed to George's for breakfast. I hung around the restaurant for about 90 minutes eating breakfast, reading the morning newspaper, and doing the puzzles to keep my mind active. You never know at my age when the mind wants to give out on you... LOL.
I got to the ramp around 9:00 a.m. and checked out the condition of the water. It had cleared nicely and had fallen about a foot since my last outing. The predictor showed the water level at 4.67' at the Harrisburg gauge around 8:00 a.m. So, I took time to retie lures since I still had my NB specials tied on from our trip north.
I finally got on the water and fishing around 9:30 a.m. I ran north to a few spots I like in the early spring and proceeded to nail this beautiful 18.5" smallie on a plastic tube...
I have a new camera and I'm still learning how to use it outside in the bright sunshine. Another thing that compounded the problem was that I just bought a better seat for myself to fish from on the front deck. I have to now learn where on that seat I can place this new camera and get shots like the old camera I used. As you can see, I'm still learning. Here was my second failed attempt to show the entire fish...
You can tell by these botched photos that the fish was a "chunko"! Oh well, I hope to get better with more practice.
She appeared to have spawned out because her belly was gone... She was well fed, though.
This bass was a good lesson in perseverance. I caught this girl from an island that I first had tossed a spinnerbait while drifting down river. I turned around and using my trolling motor, moved back upriver tossing a lipless crankbait... Nada! On my return drift down river, I picked up the plastic tube and caught her in a spot I had just tossed the spinnerbait and lipless crank into. She didn't want the other two, but she slammed the tube!
The water temp had dropped over 10 degrees since we had those nice warm days last week. The drop didn't seem to have much effect my catch today and I put a dozen bass into the boat.
What I found cool was that I caught bass on every different style of lure I threw... a plastic tube, crankbait, jerkbait, and spinnerbait. I am not a "numbers" man, but I see myself as someone who will try as many lures as possible to see what kind of bite I can get going. I find it exciting to catch fish on a number of lures rather than a ton of fish on one bait.
The bass are starting to become more active in chasing moving lures. A recent tournament in this area proved that with the winners tossing a moving lure.
We might see a great spring of fishing like we did last year. Last year, we had an early warm spell that spurred the big mommas to spawn early. They recovered and we had a great spring of catching big fish on moving baits.
Take care!
Dad
Thursday, April 15, 2010
The "Land of Oz" - North Branch of the Susquehanna River
Hello Folks,
I made it home yesterday around 5:00 p.m. and I'm sure glad to be back with my family and the dogs. They sure look like they miss me here in a pic my wife sent me while I was away. Looks like Max just got finished eating a Milk Bone... "Hmmmmm. Can I have another one, Mom?"
Josh and I left Sunday morning around 6:30 a.m. for the NB of the Susquehanna River. We stopped at the Farmer's Wife (Jonestown, Pa.) for a good breakfast and met up with Josh's brother, Jordan, and Jordan's buddy, Brandon.
We were suppose to have two rooms at Mark's Valley View, but a mistake was made and Mark only had one room available. We needed two. So, Mark found us two cabins at Harding's that were available. We're glad he did because the cabins were perfect.
We fished a good 8 to 9 hrs. on Monday and Tuesday. Sunday and Wednesday were half days of fishing.
The weather was fine, but the wind was a killer! It blew on the river every day except Wednesday. It made fishing plastics very difficult and that's what they were hitting. We did, however, get one fish on a Rat'l Trap, one fish on a jerkbait, and two fish on a spinnerbait.
Josh had much better numbers than I did on this adventure. I guess it was just his turn to put a "whopping" on dad! LOL ;)
The numbers and sizes were way down in comparison to last year when Josh and his father went to the NB in April, 2009. Flooding conditions existed about two weeks prior to our visit. You could still see the high water marks on the shoreline.
On Monday, I netted a beautiful 23" walleye on a tube...
Josh had some great fish. We only took pics of those fish 17" and over. Josh's biggest smallie went 17.75". She was a real beaut...
He caught several more great looking 17.5" smallies, too.
I also had a couple of nice smallies worthy of a pic.
We had two doubles on our trip. This is the double hook-up we had on Wednesday, our final day of fishing.
First Josh held them...
... and then me.
Jordan took his father's boat to the NB to fish from. His dad's boat hull is identical to mine. His console is totally different. His dad has kept it in excellent conditions over the years. Here's a pic of Jordan and Brandon in the G3.
It was rather cold each morning, but Wednesday morning took all prizes. It was 28 degrees when I awoke at 6:00 a.m. We had ice on our windshields. Needless to say, we weren't in a big rush to get on the water.
We made a roaring camp fire each evening. The night sky was beautiful with a billion stars shining. I even saw a "shooting star" on evening. I made my wish.
We cooked hamburgers and hot dogs over a the open fire on Sunday and Monday nights. Thanks to Jordan and Brandon for picking up supper for those two nights.
The water color was milky green in some areas and clearer in others. The water temp was around 53 degrees. The skies were partly sunny on Sunday and Monday. We had overcast skies on Tuesday and the sun broke through about mid-day. And Wednesday, was the nicest day of all. Although it started out extremely cold, it warmed rather nicely to 51 degrees. Too bad we had to get off the water by noon.
The wild life is abundant in the "Land of Oz". We saw several mature eagles and even saw one sitting on the nest. We came across several beavers that were swimming about the river. One even let us know he didn't care much for us being there when he gave a good "SLAP" of his tail against the water.
But the best thing we saw all week was spotted by Josh as we pulled along the shoreline to fish. It was a bobcat! We spooked it pretty well and it "hightailed it" up the mountainside.
There were plenty of turkey, as usual, in the mountains. We could hear them throughout the day and especially in the early morning. There was even a hen walking around the front yard of one of the homes along the river. That bird wasn't scared one bit of the folks who lived there.
Thanks go out to josh for driving his truck and boat all the way to the NB and offering me a ride. Hopefully, we'll be doing this again in the Fall of 2010. God willing.
Dad
I made it home yesterday around 5:00 p.m. and I'm sure glad to be back with my family and the dogs. They sure look like they miss me here in a pic my wife sent me while I was away. Looks like Max just got finished eating a Milk Bone... "Hmmmmm. Can I have another one, Mom?"
Josh and I left Sunday morning around 6:30 a.m. for the NB of the Susquehanna River. We stopped at the Farmer's Wife (Jonestown, Pa.) for a good breakfast and met up with Josh's brother, Jordan, and Jordan's buddy, Brandon.
We were suppose to have two rooms at Mark's Valley View, but a mistake was made and Mark only had one room available. We needed two. So, Mark found us two cabins at Harding's that were available. We're glad he did because the cabins were perfect.
We fished a good 8 to 9 hrs. on Monday and Tuesday. Sunday and Wednesday were half days of fishing.
The weather was fine, but the wind was a killer! It blew on the river every day except Wednesday. It made fishing plastics very difficult and that's what they were hitting. We did, however, get one fish on a Rat'l Trap, one fish on a jerkbait, and two fish on a spinnerbait.
Josh had much better numbers than I did on this adventure. I guess it was just his turn to put a "whopping" on dad! LOL ;)
The numbers and sizes were way down in comparison to last year when Josh and his father went to the NB in April, 2009. Flooding conditions existed about two weeks prior to our visit. You could still see the high water marks on the shoreline.
On Monday, I netted a beautiful 23" walleye on a tube...
Josh had some great fish. We only took pics of those fish 17" and over. Josh's biggest smallie went 17.75". She was a real beaut...
He caught several more great looking 17.5" smallies, too.
I also had a couple of nice smallies worthy of a pic.
We had two doubles on our trip. This is the double hook-up we had on Wednesday, our final day of fishing.
First Josh held them...
... and then me.
Jordan took his father's boat to the NB to fish from. His dad's boat hull is identical to mine. His console is totally different. His dad has kept it in excellent conditions over the years. Here's a pic of Jordan and Brandon in the G3.
It was rather cold each morning, but Wednesday morning took all prizes. It was 28 degrees when I awoke at 6:00 a.m. We had ice on our windshields. Needless to say, we weren't in a big rush to get on the water.
We made a roaring camp fire each evening. The night sky was beautiful with a billion stars shining. I even saw a "shooting star" on evening. I made my wish.
We cooked hamburgers and hot dogs over a the open fire on Sunday and Monday nights. Thanks to Jordan and Brandon for picking up supper for those two nights.
The water color was milky green in some areas and clearer in others. The water temp was around 53 degrees. The skies were partly sunny on Sunday and Monday. We had overcast skies on Tuesday and the sun broke through about mid-day. And Wednesday, was the nicest day of all. Although it started out extremely cold, it warmed rather nicely to 51 degrees. Too bad we had to get off the water by noon.
The wild life is abundant in the "Land of Oz". We saw several mature eagles and even saw one sitting on the nest. We came across several beavers that were swimming about the river. One even let us know he didn't care much for us being there when he gave a good "SLAP" of his tail against the water.
But the best thing we saw all week was spotted by Josh as we pulled along the shoreline to fish. It was a bobcat! We spooked it pretty well and it "hightailed it" up the mountainside.
There were plenty of turkey, as usual, in the mountains. We could hear them throughout the day and especially in the early morning. There was even a hen walking around the front yard of one of the homes along the river. That bird wasn't scared one bit of the folks who lived there.
Thanks go out to josh for driving his truck and boat all the way to the NB and offering me a ride. Hopefully, we'll be doing this again in the Fall of 2010. God willing.
Dad
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