June 12, 2009
INSHORE:
The recent full moon and warm weather slowed down the fishing this week, but you can find some fish out there willing to bite. I was out this week and found easily 30 snook around one dock south of Fort Pierce that were just taking it easy and not in the mood to eat after the recent full moon. Most of them were slot size or bigger, but no takers. As the moon wanes, look for fishing to pick up on the flats.
Early morning is the prime time to be on the water. Top water at first light can get you some good hits from trout and snook. Trout fishing will get back to normal now and you can find some good size trout on the grass flats. Fishing will just continue to get better out there this month. With the Fourth of July just around the corner, here are some ideas to help make it better for everyone.
Holiday Safe Boating Tips
It's hard to believe that July 4th is just around the corner and that means lots of picnics, celebrations and boaters. Holidays always bring out the usual boaters along with lots of new boaters and those that only go out a few times a year. A little common sense and preparation can make your holiday on the water a fun adventure and not a befuzzling mess. Here are a few common sense tips to help get you ready for that enjoyable weekend.
Prior to the Holiday:
1. Make sure all batteries are in good working condition and fully charged.
2. Put gas in the boat.
3. Start your motor before you leave the house.
4. Stow as much gear, etc in the boat before leaving.
5. Check the trailer early enough to have the time to repair lights, tires, etc.
At the ramp:
1. Get your boat ready before pulling into the ramp. (All equipment on board - lines ready )
2. Back in - launch the boat - move the boat out of the ramp area - get parked and back to the boat.
3. Get out of the ramp area if you are waiting on others, need to get things arranged, or have problems.
4. If you have problems, get out of the way of those launching. Don't tie up others for your problems at the ramp.
On the water:
1. Know the rules of the road or use common sense and courtesy.
2. Don't be aggressive on the water. Allow plenty of room to other boats and slow down around heavy boat traffic.
3. Remember, your wake affects others. Again, common sense and courtesy.
4. Obey the laws! The signs are their for a reason, so just follow the rules and everyone will have an enjoyable day.
5. Don't drink and drive! Have an experienced boater to be the designated driver for that day.
6. Courtesy goes a long, long way!!
Back at the ramp:
1. Don't tie up a ramp while you get your vehicle. Most likely, someone is already getting theirs and should have first rights to pulling their boat out.
2. Patience is a virtue....someone said. Don't be in a hurry. You will get your boat out, just wait your turn.
3. Pull well away of the ramp area when securing your boat and gear. Allow others the courtesy of pulling their boats timely.
4. Make sure everything is secure for a safe trip home from a wonderful Holiday weekend on the water!
It's nothing new or bizarre, just simple things to help yourself and others around you to have a great Holiday Weekend! Have a safe and fun Fourth of July!
As always, remember, fishing is not just another hobby....it's an ADVENTURE!!
Good Fishing and Be Safe,
Captain Charlie Conner
www.fishtalescharter.com
email: captaincharlie@fishtalescharter.com
772-284-3852
A few photos from this week. Can you spot the snook?
