Don't know where to start with this report, as a lot has happened in the past week.
Had clients in from Missouri up to the last minute, literally before mandatory evacuation was called by Plaquemines officials for Hurricane Gustav.
Flying down on their own Jet, they arrived at the Redfish Lodge the Thursday before Labor Day and were to fish thru Sunday. Arriving at lunch they were eager to get on the water. Headed to an area we felt would be productive, Capt Chris and myself split up about ¾ miles apart to search for Giant Reds.
Well there was no need for searching, as in my boat three rods were cast from three anglers and immediately all three were hooked up. About the same time Chris radioed from his boat "Mike they are thick over here….Unbelievable!!!" "Same here", I replied!!
It was on……….the fishing was incredible and all anglers were exhausted as we headed back to the lodge.
A great dinner was enjoyed by all…..Talk of a big card game surrounded the dinner table……but never happened as the worn out crew went to bed EARLY.
Friday morning: Return of the "Reds", except it was even more exciting than the day before as these massive Reds were on the surface busting and hurling the baitfish into the air. The sight was as impressive as the fishing!!! It was non stop action on fish that weighed in any where from 10-40 pounds, with most of the fish ranging from 20-30 pounds. The Okuma VSystem spinning reels and guide select light tackle rods held to the test AGAIN as the smooth drags and tough rods never failed……and believe me they were tested!! Both boats fished until all anglers threw in the white towels. Personally, I do not know how they survived as long as they did as we lost count on how many fish were caught, so I know they were extremely exhausted.
Bad news upon returning to the dock…..Hurricane Gustov was coming and an evacuation was mandatory by Saturday evening. As it was, Rob's pilot called and told him that the plane had to be out of the airport by 12:00 noon Saturday.
Rob looked at me and asked " What do you think about tomorrow?, Can we fish maybe until 9:00 A.M., then come in and hit the road quickly" "Sure" I replied as my wife and my two sons had come down to secure the Lodge therefore Capt. Chris and myself could get the group out and then come in to help.
Sat morning: Hit the waters early and the fishing was good, but not as great as the past two days. Caught and released about 8 big Reds in the 30-35 pound range before we had to head in. Quit fishing about 9 A.M., returned the group to the lodge where they were out in about 20 minutes. "Don't want the pilot to leave without me" Rob giggled as he entered his rental van. This was Rob's second trip with us and as he said while leaving " I will be back before the year is over!!"
It was time for Capt.Chris and I to help Lori, Michael and Stephen board up and secure the lodge, then to our residence to do the same.
By now everyone knows that Hurricane Gustav hit the Louisiana coast almost a week ago…….fortunately not a category 4 or 5 as originally projected but a 3 which can and did cause considerable damage to many. Our Lodge sustained damage downstairs where one wall shifted about a foot and minor damage upstairs. Certainly feel lucky and blessed, as we are still building back from Hurricane Katrina. Imagine this: Applied for an SBA loan immediately after Katrina but have yet to hear a word from that agency……..So we certainly were praying that Gustav would spare us. What an emotional roller coaster ride.
We have been in business for 27 years and would like to thank all of our loyal customers and look forward to serving our new clients. Without you, we would not exist!!!! THANKS!!!
For GREAT Fishing, Fun, Food and lodging; give us a call!!
Capt. Mike Frenette
504-782-3474
"Redfish Lodge of Louisiana"
Professional Tournament Angler
Professional Guide
Available For Seminars, Appearances, & Speaking Engagements
www.venicefishing.net
