Slidell, LA USA

Due to the recent Oil Spill we are having to adapt, which means ROAD TRIP! I am towing the 'Flying Tiger' to Texas. The group of us are going to Galveston June 10 - 13 and would appreciate any information on inshore and offshore fishing in Galveston TX. I have a 24ft and am looking for coordinated and structures within 20 to 30 miles or so of the ship channel.
Any others thinking about the same contact me, it would be awsome to multi boats.

Monday, May 31, 2010 @ 6:28:43 PM

marrero, LA USA

moving to kingwood tx.
how is the bass fishing in lake
houston?
any feed back would be appreciaed

                           mate

Tuesday, May 18, 2010 @ 9:49:02 AM

Destin, FL USA

This is a great video for recreational fishermen.  NOAA has appointed a new Recreational Fishing Policy director in Washington. Hopefully he will do some good.  I suggest you send this link to every fiaherman you know and contact him with your support.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=W2IEY_R5-B0

Dunn is based out of the NOAA Fisheries Service Southeast Regional Office.

He may be contacted at 727-551-5740 and via email at Russell.Dunn@noaa.gov.

Thursday, May 13, 2010 @ 10:21:00 AM

port mansfield , TX USA

Well its the change of the seasons which for a short period of time makes the fish a little picky and with the moon full they just will not hold a pattern . Makes it a little more challenging but we have been doing well , of course with the full moon they are on an afternoon bite . Have been doing well on super spook juniors , and as always sea devils any color , fish are still holding in 3-5 ft water depth . Last trip out connected on good school of fish right at 1:00 pm stephen, dennis, and travis, all got on fish and caught trout to 24 inches and a mess of mud suckers . Had a good day out which is what we have been doing , but sometimes you have to hang in there because the fish do not always bite on your time that is why at lil spoon we come in when you want to, there has been times when the fish turn on at 5:00 pm and we were there to catch them makes for a long day of fun in the sun . Hunting season is upon us so things have slowed a little  for the fisherman, which is a good thing leaves more open water for us to fish in really one of the best times to catch good fish the winter . Has been a good spring and summer looking forward to a great winter . GOOD FISHING CAPT. KEN    

 TodMike

Thursday, November 5, 2009 @ 5:44:15 AM

Venice, LA USA

GUATEMALA OFFSHORE REPORT FROM CAPT. EDGAR

After a nice Guatemala Winter that was full of surprises - with the Strike Zone and the Jacpot catching Dorado's, Marlins and Sails - we are preparing for the "High Season" in Guatemala that begins in October.

Sailfish Season starts in October and goes through

May 2010 and as Marlin Magazine cover page said - the

blue & black suit boys hit the Guatemala coasts too -making it the NEW hot place for Marlin as well.

Strike Zone was our first boat to start the season

fishing with our friends Jose Alonzo, Salatiel

Barragan, and Javier Rosales from Mexico this

past Tuesday and it was SWEET! We headed out

at 7 am from Marina Pez Vela as usual and by 8:15 the lines were in the water.

Imagine 7 straight hours fishing!!! WOW between

Dorado's and Sails our friends had a complete

workout. The total count was 6 sails and 15 dorado's - not a bad day at all....

Today was a nice day too - 5 Sails and 1 blue

around 250 pounds. The Marlin - really makes

the day worth it. Just looking at how fast they are and

how he hit the KONA was incredible. The

adrenaline was HIIIIIIIGHHHH!!! Sails were around

the 100 pounds and with 3 dorado's to share the day they had a tasty ceviche was soooo nice! Our friends

from Guatemala and two Americans were having fun

watching those sails jump around. Remember that

catch n release fishing with circle hook makes a

fantastic show to watch.

Come and join us and get to know this wonderful

country full of energy and warm people that will

make your trip worth every minute. Keep tight and

ready because the action is just starting.

Thanks Capt. Edgar for the report. I will be in Guatemala
from Oct 12 to 17 and hope to tag a few Sails.

We still have four spots open for the November trip when you can be a fishing star along with host Mike Lane and rodnreelTV show. Give me a call at 225-279-3800 or Capt Danny Pate a call at 225-205-3766.

LOUISIANA OFFSHORE REPORT : The fishing has been good when the weather let's us get out...The Big Yellowfin are starting to show up and the Blackfin are everywhere. October is a super month....I know football is in the air but on the STRIKE ZONE TOO you won't miss any games even when you or out in the Gulf 100 miles....sit back after bring in a 100+ lb Yellowfin and turn to your favorite game on our 48 inch TV in the AC with a cool beer and wait until the captain yells out "FISH ON"""..... A 50 yard line set an a fighting chair...a remote control with a football game on and a ice cold beer ......What more does a man need..........

STRIKE ZONE CHARTERS LOUISIANA & GUATEMALA

CELEBRATIING 21 YEARS IN THE CHARTER BUSINESS

www.strikezonecharters.net

Tuesday, October 6, 2009 @ 10:21:28 AM

Fulshear, TX USA

In response to Redfishchaser: the surf fishing is great around Sargent, but it probably has slowed down some now that the weather has cooled a bit. By the way, I know what you mean about Holly Beach. I owned a camp at Rutherford for years (sold it in 2004, lucky break!) and have never caught big trout like I did there in the surf, many over 7 lbs. Good luck!

Friday, October 2, 2009 @ 6:22:17 PM

lafayette, LA USA

i do a lot of great surf fishing on the holly beach costal area. my wife is working in houston for 3 weeks and i would like to take her surf fishing for her birthday next weekend. i was wondering if there was any surf fishing in the galviston area which is not that far from houston. thank you for any info.

Sunday, September 27, 2009 @ 6:34:42 PM

Fulshear, TX USA

In response to Nick about snapper fishing out of POC: Nick, the snapper season has been closed in federal waters now for over a month, don't get caught or they'll cost you $500.00 apiece. You should be able to catch them in state waters this winter(inside 9 miles?, check it out, I don't remember if it is 9 or 7). Regardless, the season won't open back up in federal waters until late this spring.

Saturday, September 26, 2009 @ 9:45:09 AM

port mansfield, TX USA

On Sunday, I lost my gray camera bag containing nine SD Memory Cards at the Port Mansfield fish cleaning station. My family and I are very upset with this lose and would give anything for its safe return. Rebecca Todd 432-386-6520.

Thursday, September 24, 2009 @ 10:50:19 AM

Victoria, TX USA

I'm trying to do some more offshore fishing out of POC. I only go out of POC; I recently got my boat running again. I bought Rik Jacobsen's Guide to Red Snapper Fishing. I'm looking for anyone who regularly fishes the POC area to give any tips on what tackle to use and what spots are yielding the most fish this time of year. I found a rig about 45 miles off that seems to be good for snapper or an occasional grouper. I would like to expand my abilities to catch more than snapper. It seems to me that after reading some of the texas fishing forums that tuna action off of Texas heats up in the winter months. Although I know it would be a much further trip to target tuna, if I knew I could do some damage I would try it. I would also be open to following someone else out in my boat to help chum together. Please e-mail me if anyone can help me out.

Thanks!

Tuesday, September 22, 2009 @ 4:14:02 PM

port mansfield, TX USA

2/27/09
The last trips out were good trips. I had Bob H. and his kids (Joe and Rob). Joe caught a 29.6 inch trout and got several more that size and up but released them,(with out harm barbless hooks). We used sea devils and super spook juniors, the water was a good color, fishing 3-5 ft. water depth, winds were great 3-4 mph early, in afternoon only 16-18 mph. The mornings are starting out a little slow but picking up all day long, with Bob and his boys, I should say young men. It was a great 2 days, we caught lots of solid trout and mud suckers. I had took Joe and Roy in the area it was known for good fish, but they were still suprised when we caught such good fish. Tony, Roy and the guys were equaly suprised, even Tony when we were catching mud suckers yelled out 4 on, Tony ended up the next 2 days at his personal best. I was proud that I could get lucky and put him on some quality fish. Tony and Roy both caught and released good trout to 28 inches and a lot of mud suckers. Fishing has been really good all summer and it looks like it is shaping up for a good fall and winter, looking forward to wearing the old waders. GOOD DAYS ALL WHEN IN THE WATER  CAPT.  KEN

 Gill and his boys trip on 8/14/09

Thursday, August 27, 2009 @ 10:13:53 AM

Weatherford, TX USA

Can someone provide me with the status of Squaw Creek lake near Glen Rose? Are you allowed to fish it? Also can it be fished from the bank and what types of facilities are available. I am thinking about starting a Christian based Bass Club and would like to include this lake on the circuit.

Monday, August 17, 2009 @ 11:30:26 PM

Weatherford, TX USA

Can someone provide me with the status of Squaw Creek lake near Glen Rose? Are you allowed to fish it? Also can it be fished from the bank and what types of facilities are available. I am thinking about starting a Christian based Bass Club and would like to include this lake on the circuit.

Monday, August 17, 2009 @ 11:28:13 PM

Port Mansfield, TX USA

8/6/09     Winds still not what they should be but looks like next few days should settle out , fishing has been good and steady , catching lots of trout and reds . Doing good on trout to 26-28 inches and with the winds settling some should get much better on larger trout and reds will continue to be good . The full moon has really got the fish were i like them staged early , so we get a lot of action until about mid day. Then in the afternoon it gets really good the fish go crazy . On tuesday guys wanted to come in early so we did with our limit about 10:00 am no big fish just solid 20-23 inches . Been catching a few flounder they are kind of scattered right now . Looking forward to next trip out . capt.  ken   

 Good Day of Fishing

Thursday, August 6, 2009 @ 10:15:17 AM

Port Mansfield, TX USA

7/17-18/09
Both days were really good days we caught trout and reds until our arms hurt trout were to 26inches and reds were to 27 inches . Lures used were sea devils ( brown lures ) top water was slow , fishing 3-5ft water depth 1/8 ounce jig heads ( barb less ) .Fish holding on the bottom in sand pockets. To see my full report go to web site ( lilspoonguide.com ) . HAVE A GOOD DAY FISHING .     CAPT. KEN

Sunday, July 19, 2009 @ 9:38:56 PM

venice, LA USA

2009 FISHING TO HEAR RODEO in Venice louisiana (13 days left!)

Want to give kids the gift of hearing while fishing?

Win 1 of 20 offshore charters for you and 3 of your friends to participate in our 3rd Annual FISHING TO HEAR RODEO.  You will be guided by the best of the best captains down in Venice.

Purchase your $20 raffle tickets now until July 19th. Get as many tickets as you want and know that it will be tax-deductible. Tickets can be purchased at www.fishingtohear.org and full details and info.

You will be directly helping louisiana deaf children to afford 2nd cochlear implant surgery cost and educational expenses.  We are a 501c3 non-profit and operate solely on the kindness of volunteers.  If you would like to help, please contact us.
Go to our website at www.fishingtohear.org to see what we do NOW!

**Sunday, July 19th drawing will be hosting free benefit concert with free food & featuring Bucktown Allstars for 3 hours of entertainment! Come join us and lets party for a great cause!

Special thanks to Rodnreel for allowing us to get the word out!

Wednesday, July 8, 2009 @ 5:55:14 PM

port mansfield, TX USA

Winds have calmed a bit ,still fishing 3-5 ft water depth , wading is great water temp. upper 80s lures used sea devils , and super spook juniors .Trout minimum size we have been catching is 20 inches to 25 inches , wont keep anything over 25 inches unless to mount . Not catching a lot over 25 inches , but good solid fish , quite a few mud suckers (red fish). Over all has been good year on catching , havent had to do a lot of fishing . Always looking forward to next trip , come see me again Mike enjoyed having you .  Capt.  Ken

Monday, June 29, 2009 @ 8:48:17 AM

lafitte, LA USA

Seen many boat from Texas and Fl in Lafitte, La today. Must be a Tournament coming up.  We had a great day on the water today. The Doc's Fish Counter total are 35 reds, 15 trout and 2 drum. For more info go to: http://fishcounter.homestead.com

 Reds on the slab

Sunday, June 28, 2009 @ 12:13:06 AM

New Orleans, LA USA

Can anyone direct me where I can find ( The Texas chicken Corky with the red gill plates)having trouble locating one in La. Thanks for the help.

Thursday, June 25, 2009 @ 11:12:48 AM

lafitte, LA USA

Lafitte, La is were the Reds at.  This week end we had 30 Reds(15 keeper) before 10:30.  3 were nice tournament reds.  All fall to a Mann crank bait 5 miles from the lanch.  Great father day for me and my sons.  For more photos go to my web site at: http://fishcounter.homestead.com

 Fall to the Crank Bait Assassin

Thursday, June 25, 2009 @ 7:34:56 AM

Madisonville, LA USA

2009 FISHING TO HEAR RODEO in Venice louisiana

Want to give kids the gift of hearing while fishing?

Win 1 of 20 offshore charters for you and 3 of your friends to participate in our 3rd Annual FISHING TO HEAR RODEO.  You will be guided by the best of the best captains down in Venice.

Purchase your $20 raffle tickets now until July 19th. Get as many tickets as you want and know that it will be tax-deductible. Tickets can be purchased at www.fishingtohear.org and full details and info.

You will be directly helping louisiana deaf children to afford 2nd cochlear implant surgery cost and educational expenses.  We are a 501c3 non-profit and operate solely on the kindness of volunteers.  If you would like to help, please contact us.
Go to our website at www.fishingtohear.org to see what we do NOW!

**Sunday, July 19th drawing will be hosting free benefit concert with free food & featuring Bucktown Allstars for 3 hours of entertainment! Come join us and lets party for a great cause!

Special thanks to Rodnreel for allowing us to get the word out!

Friday, June 12, 2009 @ 3:43:03 PM

walker, LA USA

Going to fish down in sargent, TX for first time looking for some reports. thanks wag

Wednesday, June 10, 2009 @ 10:13:41 PM

Venice, LA USA

2009 FISHING TO HEAR RODEO in Venice louisiana

Want to give kids the gift of hearing while fishing?

Win 1 of 20 offshore charters for you and 3 of your friends to participate in our 3rd Annual FISHING TO HEAR RODEO.  You will be guided by the best of the best captains down in Venice.

Purchase your $20 raffle tickets now until July 19th. Get as many tickets as you want and know that it will be tax-deductible. Tickets can be purchased at www.fishingtohear.org and full details and info.

You will be directly helping louisiana deaf children to afford 2nd cochlear implant surgery cost and educational expenses.  We are a 501c3 non-profit and operate solely on the kindness of volunteers.  If you would like to help, please contact us.
Go to our website at www.fishingtohear.org to see what we do NOW!

**Sunday, July 19th drawing will be hosting free benefit concert with free food & featuring Bucktown Allstars for 3 hours of entertainment! Come join us and lets party for a great cause!

Special thanks to Rodnreel for allowing us to get the word out!

Tuesday, June 9, 2009 @ 12:43:49 PM

spring, TX USA

Lake Conroe 5/7/09 catfish good, pitch live minnows at the bulkhead,black bass fair, black&gray cranks, bluecrome r-trap,white purch 30ft live mminnows.

Thursday, May 7, 2009 @ 9:12:53 PM

Marrero, LA USA

Looking for a used high pressure fuel pump for a 2002 yamaha SX150TXRA part #67H-13907-00-00 Thanks for any help you can give.

Wednesday, May 6, 2009 @ 4:04:12 PM

Venice, LA USA

We have an open boat for Wednesday and Thursday! The sea's will be 1-2 ft!!

Also have two boats open for this weekend! Friday, Saturday and Sunday!

Sat & Sun April 4th & 5th

Saturday was a little on the rough side! We were looking for tuna, ended up running a good bit with nothing to show for it. The water was dirty and the current was strong. After a few hours of tuna hunting, we decided to put some meat in the boat. With large mullet and hardtail we were able to head home with a nice box of amberjack. A couple of them around 50 pounds!

Sunday everone canceled except for my crew and Capt Josh with Super Strike! Josh and I talked out a plan before leaving Venice Marina, we all thought it would be super rough but that wasnt the case at all! In fact, it was beautiful! Big long rollers!

I decided to put meat in the box first this time! We stopped at one of my favorite amberjack spots and before lunch we had a limit of AJ's with the largest being 70 pounds! We even had an almaco jack that was 4 pounds shy of a state record!

After we had ice on the jacks, we went looking for tuna! The first spot was the right spot!! The boat was still in gear when I saw the first tuna jump! We got the angry popper down, missed the first hook up but the second throw would prove to be the deadly one! After 20 mins, I stuck the gaff in a 75 pound yellowfin! Because we got to the spot late in the day, we were only able to catch three yellows and one black but the fish were everywhere! We had to leave them biting! With the right live bait, we would have filled every box on the boat!

I fished last Wednesday and I have spent almost a week trying to figure out how to sugar coat the trip but I cant do it, so here you go!!!

IT JUST SUCKED!!!

I ran far, I just knew it would pay off!! NOPE!! We left out of South Pass, stopped at Elf, nothing, ran to the tower, dead, over to Thunder Horse, no bait, then to another floater next to Thunder Horse, Not a fish! Talked to a huge crew boat captain there, he said he has not seen a fish in weeks there, even at night!!! Not what I wanted to hear!! Back to elf!! Plenty of blackfin taking a jig, Plenty of barracuda taking blackfin & JIG!!

We could not catch a break! Stopped at another rig to pick up a few jacks and grouper but only found a few almaco!!! Nice Boat Ride!!

I am glad that is out of the way!! The water was beautiful at the tower and thunder horse, just no fish and no bait!! Shouldnt take much longer! The water temp was 75 deg and I did see a good bit of grass, so there is hope!! HA HA!!

We are catching tuna but not there yet! Maybe another week or so!! The trick right now is BAIT BAIT BAIT!
If you have the right bait and you find the fish, you are set!!

The summer is almost here!! Water is warming up, fish are moving in, I hope the wind is going away! We have two boats this year so we have plenty of open dates! If you have large groups, we have you covered!

Snapper season opens June 1st, opening day is still open!

Capt Josh Howard
225-572-7408
deepsouthcharters@cox.net
www.deepsouthcharters.com

Monday, April 20, 2009 @ 9:37:25 PM

Bryan, TX USA

Howdy All, Just thought I'd say that the largemouth and the stripers are biting at the little Brazos in bryan. My buddy Matt and I went earlier today to kill some time, and cought roughly two dozen each. We cought an equal or greater amount of stump perch. Shallow Divers Seemed to be the ticket.

IRT FTnutts  : Try shrimp n spinner, present like you would for largemouth .

Sunday, March 8, 2009 @ 7:38:02 PM

beaumont, tx United States

In response to Butler

Butler
I would be thankful for a little advice.  Does the water temp have to be in a certain range?  Would you give me a general idea on the lure or bait you're using during the winter?
thank you
Mark

Thursday, February 5, 2009 @ 2:03:34 AM

chalmette, LA USA

for years I've been hearing about texans eating stingrays. something about using a cookie cutter to make fake scallops. is there any truth in this?

Thursday, January 15, 2009 @ 1:11:24 PM

Ocean Springs, MS USA

Gary,  We took two trips this week to Chandy fishing the surf and cuts.  Caught over 80 trout on the last trip and a few less on the one before.  Barely any fisherman where we fish, too.  It's serious wadefishing to say the least.  Email me at michaelbutler012@gmail.com  I usually fish in the winter at Chandy because the summer fishing at Horn is pretty good and a lot closer. I'll go if it's 35 degrees  or 75 degreess outside.  Doesn't matter to me, and the fish don't seem to care either.  Email me and we will talk.

Saturday, January 3, 2009 @ 11:55:15 AM

OCEAN SPRINGS, MS USA

All,
6yr old son is doing a science fair project titled: sharks should they be afraid of us. We are currently doing a survey and if u can answer the following questions it would be deeply appreciated:

1.Do you think sharks are  intentionaly dangerous to humans

yes or no

2. Do you think sharks should be killed after a person has been attacked by one

yes or no

3. Do you think that sharks are overfished in the gulf of mexico

yes or no

4. Do you release sharks dead or
alive when fishing?

5. Is there an economic value for harvesting sharks commercially in the gulf of mexico?

6. Do you make a living harvesting sharks?

7. In the last 10 yrs do you think shark populations in the gomex have increased or decrease?

Thursday, December 4, 2008 @ 11:54:54 AM

New Orleans, LA USA

I constantly read about the big trout caught in the winter surf fishing. I surf fish alot here in Louisiana. What does the water temperature have to do with you catching of big trout in the surf. Is there a certain range it must be in? Alot of people in Louisiana believe the trout disappear from the shallowa in the cold months and move to deep water. I disagree and consistently catch fish thru out the year.
Please reply with any info. We fish the Chandeleur Island chain pretty much year round. We have no competition where we fish in the winter. Would be interested in swapping trips with a serious  trout fisherman.

Tuesday, November 11, 2008 @ 7:23:15 AM

Orange Beach, AL USA

I'm looking for a old friend Robert Ricket who used to Deck/Captain on some Texas billfish boats and fished the Bahamas and South Florida...If you know him please have him email or call me.
Tuna fishing has been very good here when you can get out.
Max

Monday, November 3, 2008 @ 7:34:54 AM

dallas, TX USA

Going to Corpus next week. Any suggestions? Want to catch a bull red.

Friday, October 3, 2008 @ 2:49:59 PM

Slidell, LA USA

Looking for Alan Lind from Port Bolivar. I know this is a fishiong and hunting forum but we haven

Sunday, September 14, 2008 @ 1:18:35 PM

Venice, LA USA

2008 FISHING TO HEAR RODEO

*Update= we have 2700 more tickets to sell to make our goal!  5 more days to go...Get your tickets now! (www.fishingtohear.org)

Thanks rodnreel and everyone who has been posting comments in support for our cause. It's not too late to make a difference and give us that last big push to get to our goal!

Want to give kids the gift of hearing while fishing?

Win 1 of 35 charters for you and 3 of your friends to participate in our 2nd Annual FISHING TO HEAR Rodeo.

Purchase your $20 raffle tickets now until July 27th.  Get as many tickets as you want and know that it will be tax-deductible.  Tickets can be purchased at www.fishingtohear.org

You will be directly helping deaf children to afford implant surgery denied by insurance and the New Orleans Oral School,501c3, to give tuition scholarships for these special children!  We hope to see you there!

Go to our website at www.fishingtohear.org to see what we do NOW!


Come join us on Sunday July 27 at Cafe 615 for the drawing at 3PM. Map is on our site. Free food open cash bar. See you there!

 Team A.A.B

Tuesday, July 22, 2008 @ 3:37:55 PM

Baton Rouge, LA USA

Gents, I am thinking about taking a trip to Baffin Bay in search of a big trout. I have a good friend i Austin who wants to take me out. From what I see the really big trout are taken in the winter months, but we would like to make a trip during the fall. Before I load the wife in the car for an 8 hour trip can you let me know if there is a chance of catching a 8-9 lb fish in the fall? Any advice is appreciated.

Tuesday, July 22, 2008 @ 1:03:51 PM

venice, LA USA

2008 FISHING TO HEAR RODEO

*Update= we have 2800 more tickets to sell to make our goal!  10 more days to go...Get your tickets now! (www.fishingtohear.org)

Want to give kids the gift of hearing while fishing?

Win 1 of 35 charters for you and 3 of your friends to participate in our 2nd Annual FISHING TO HEAR Rodeo.

Purchase your $20 raffle tickets now until July 27th.  Get as many tickets as you want and know that it will be tax-deductible.  Tickets can be purchased at www.fishingtohear.org

You will be directly helping deaf children to afford implant surgery denied by insurance and the New Orleans Oral School,501c3, to give tuition scholarships for these special children!  We hope to see you there!

Go to our website at www.fishingtohear.org to see what we do NOW!

Wednesday, July 16, 2008 @ 7:19:03 PM

Orange, TX USA

A neighbor Greg, his friend Tony, his two sons (Troy & Dannis) and        co-worker Jeff booked a charter out of Venice and had a blast. The sees were calm and the fishing good. Caught one AJ, lost one yellow fin tuna in the props (approximately 150 - 165) and caught three more with the largest one at 191.6Lbs. Want a shot at a large fish call Capt. Rick, Blue Water Charters based out of Venice LA 409-719-7771. Fish off of the spacious 34' twin diesel Baha King Cat.

 191.6 Lbs of kick a$$Tony & Troy (center) took 4 to hold

Monday, July 14, 2008 @ 9:13:54 PM

diamondhead, MS USA

My wife is taking a nursing assignment in the Bay City area and I was wondering where are the closest spots to catch some trout, reds or flounder is. Any help would be appreciated.

Thursday, June 19, 2008 @ 7:24:39 AM

Galveston, TX USA

Well this week has been real simple: Good weather excellent fishing - near limits and limits of trout; Bad weather (high winds) tough fishing. We have been able to catch some fish with the high winds, but we really have to grind it out. Sometimes when the winds are high and the water is dirty or both you just have to bite the bullet and go catch fish. Trout and redfish are always are #1 goal, but mother nature sometimes has other plans. We are still using shrimp under a popping cork near the shorelines and when possible soft plastics have worked under birds on an incoming tide. Hopefully the bay will have a chance to clear up so we can get out to the mid bay reefs and catch some of those hungry trout. When the wind has been right the causeway bridge up to Tx. City has been productive. I look for East Bay to turn on real soon.Until next time, see you on the water.
Capt. Alan
www.topp-dogg.com

Wednesday, May 14, 2008 @ 2:26:42 PM

MATAGORDA, TX USA

Lets have some more reports from the texas coast... Rigs off mat. Within 9 miles are producing good snapper to 15 lbs. Haven t been out passed 9n yet. Going out 60 plus in two weeks.Let yoall know what happens.

Sunday, April 13, 2008 @ 5:31:24 PM

Dauphin Island, AL USA

This is a copy of a letter I am sending to my representatives in the Senate and Congress. Please people jump on the band wagon and make some noise!

Dear Senator Sessions

   I am writing to you today as a humble constituent with grave concerns over the issue of Red Snapper management by Dr. Roy Crabtree and National Marine Fisheries. I ask that as you read this letter that you please forgive the emotional tone of my writing as none of my frustration is directed at you but at those who threaten my lively hood with unjust and unnecessary regulation.
  
   Please allow me to begin by telling you who I am and why I hold the positions I am about to convey. My name is Jonathan L. Dunnam and I am a thirty nine year old, second generation captain and I own a charter fishing vessel which is operated out of Dauphin Island, Al. I have had my captains’ license for nineteen years and was a deckhand throughout my teenage years. So as you can see I have my whole life invested in this business. I started out working for other people and then went on to buy a small boat to start my own charter service. I eventually stuck my neck out and invested in the boat I own now which is a large boat with a large mortgage. I have worked hard my entire life to get to where I am. I have never been one to complain, I just take what God gives me and do the best I can with it. I consider myself to be a patriotic citizen and a productive member of society. I love my country and support its government, however, I write this letter to inform you that my government is failing me and the entire country, with the mismanagement of the red snapper fishery by the National Marine Fisheries.

   I stand this very day on the verge of bankruptcy due totally to the unrealistic and unfair practices of the NMF using flawed data to set seasons and quotas. I have survived hurricanes and down turns in the economy but how can I survive such severe restrictions as a two month long season and two fish per person bag limits. I am a conservationist first and foremost and if the red snapper stocks were in trouble I would be the first to call for tighter restrictions. The fact of the matter is that red snapper stocks are at their highest levels of anytime during my lifetime. Even the NMF has stated that the fishery is rebuilding. So I hope you can understand my frustration with these unnecessary regulations that have such dire consequences for not only me but the entire for hire sector and all other associated businesses. In the Magnuson Stevens Act it clearly states that regulations shall be fair and equitable. There is nothing fair and equitable about being forced into bankruptcy or selling a business that has taken a life time to build.

   It is my opinion and the opinion of many others that there should be an investigation by congress into the actions of Dr. Crabtree and the National Marine Fisheries. With such egregious discrepancies in NMF’s stock assessments and what is actually in the Gulf I think something has to be done to rectify their data collection. NMF has admitted to using flawed data in the management of red snapper. With my and countless others livelihoods on the line, I simply cannot afford to be regulated by inconclusive or incorrect data or by a set of arbitrary dates and quotas to rebuild the stock by. The fact is that no one knows what the stock was in the 1950’s, so to pick a target number out of the air is unrealistic. With management measures so off base with reality it leads me to believe that there are alternative agendas at work here. As an example of this; Dr. Crabtree has announced that he will cut snapper season due to the expected increase in red snapper harvest due to Florida and Texas not abiding by the federal seasons and limits. Dr. Crabtree however offers no concession for higher fuel prices, the slower economy or any expected bad weather that will most assuredly reduce the amount of effort in the fishery thus reducing the harvest. This is a prime example of the cherry picking of data to justify these extreme regulations. Why is it that it is so easy for Dr. Crabtree to incorporate Florida And Texas state water harvest into the management model but has no means to do so with weather, fuel prices and the economy?  All the stock assessments are done in the Federal Exclusive Economic Zone which state waters are not included in. If state waters are not included in stock assessment then how can it be included in harvest data? The same thing applies to artificial reefs and oil and gas structures. They are not included in the NMF stock assessments but fish caught from these structures are included in the harvest data. This is a totally lopsided means of management.

   This is not really that complicated of an issue if someone would take a common sense look at it and put personal and political agendas aside. There is no reason that both the fish and the fisherman cannot be saved here. Reasonable limits and seasons that achieve the ultimate goal of a healthy fishery and monitoring of the fishery is all it would take.

   I, unfortunately have a small voice and little influence. That is why I turn to you, my honorable representative in government. You are in a position to take up this cause and make a difference in the lives of so many who depend on fishing to support themselves. Our coastal economy is also largely dependent on the fishing industry and will surely suffer if Dr. Crabtree is allowed to continue with his incompetent management of the NMF. I hope and pray that you will take action. Please initiate an investigation into Dr. Crabtree and the NMF. I also humbly ask that you ask congress to revise the arbitrary dates in the Magnuson Stevens Act that call for over fishing of red snapper to end by 2010 and that the stock be rebuilt by 2032. IT has already been determined that the stock is rebuilding therefore these dates put an undue economic burden on the charter industry along with countless related industries. They also compromise the God given right of access to your average fisherman.

   Thank you for your most valuable time and I appreciate your public service to this great nation.

God Bless
Captain Jonathan L. Dunnam   

Thursday, March 27, 2008 @ 9:19:58 AM

Gulfport, MS USA

Everybody,  I recently returned from the war and will be visiting my parents in Texas this weekend.  Can anyone tell me if anything is biting at Rollover and what their hitting?  Thanks for any reports provided.  Tight lines for all!

Wednesday, March 19, 2008 @ 11:32:14 AM

Greenville, TX Hunt

Hunting offered at new ranch. Free range hog hunting as well as quail, pheasant, duck etc.. We offer a quality hunt guided or unguided. We are currently booking hog hunts through spring and summer. Taking deposits for dove, quail, pheasant, and duck. We are located 1-1/2 hrs NE of dallas Texas. You will rough it! After all thats what its all about. Call Jeff @ 214-240-7805 or e-mail us @ triplexhunting@hotmail.com

Monday, March 3, 2008 @ 2:37:41 PM

Mission, TX USA

Low in number, but high in quality. Nice fish for the dinner table, all caught on artificials, lower laguna madre.

 Laguna trout & flounder

Saturday, March 1, 2008 @ 7:20:50 PM

, United States

In response to Sean Sager

You will do much better out of Freeport if you like offshore. Much better variety, and a little quicker to deep water. I've made 5 trips out of Freeport in the past 10 yrs, all great. Plenty of Mahi, Kings, Snapper, Amberjack, some YF, Galveston is not as good. You can't beat Venice, LA though for world class offshore fishing within 30 miles of the coast.

Saturday, March 1, 2008 @ 7:18:25 PM

Orange, TX USA

Headed out of Venice Marina late friday night, anchored on the Lump and found the snapper bite off the chart but no tuna. Pulled the hook looking for wahoo with one hit and a miss so we went a little deeper for grouper with no results. So far it was a tough trip but with a picture perfect night and a full moon the sword bite was off the chart. Caught four and lost one after a 2.5 hr. fight at the boat due to a pulled hook. This fish was hooked on the tip top line and swam extreamly fast past the underwater light to give us the first glimps. It later surfaced several times clearing the water, what an awsome sight. If you are interested in an epic battle with the toughest fish in the gulf give me a call.

Blue Water Charters
Venice Marina
Venice LA
409-719-7771

 Alans sword fish2/24/08 swordAlans sword 2/24/2008

Tuesday, February 26, 2008 @ 8:22:34 PM

Houston, TX USA

In process of relocating to TX from NC. Currently fish NC offshore  - excellent fishery! Been gathering as much information about TX offshore as possible. So far as I can tell Mahi/Wahoo bite spring - fall around weed lines and 30-50 miles out around structure (on the troll?). In NC we got YFT almost year round. Appears this is primarily a winter time venture and running 80-120 miles off. This pramarily chumming/chunking or also on troll? Also, any recommendations on good websites/reports would be helpful. Finally, looked at marinas in galveston and freeport - any comments here? Appears to me drive from Houston to Galveston may be a little shorter but offshore further than Freeport? Thank youfor any direction/advice you can offer!

Monday, February 25, 2008 @ 5:20:12 PM

Slidell, LA USA

Hello ALL!  Our Lady of Lourdes School is a 501(c)3 Non-profit organization located in Slidell, LA. Our entire school and church were destroyed in Katrina and 98% of our student body was directly impacted with personal devastation as well. As we continue to work through our own devastation, we have provided our community partners, like CCA, a place to regroup and hold meetings and events.

Our Live Benefit Auction will be taking place in April to support our continuing rebuilding efforts and WE'RE ASKING FOR YOUR SUPPORT!   

Please consider donating items such as gift certificates, gift baskets, cash to help us manage the event, artwork, or any other miscellaneous, retail items.   

We’re looking forward to a great turn-out on Saturday, April 26, 2008 at our annual Our Lady of Lourdes Food and Music Festival, and would love to see you and your family join us for the day.  I also invite you to visit our website at ollonline.com to learn about our plans for ‘Rebuilding OLL’ – photos, site development plans, etc…  If I can answer any questions regarding your donation, please do not hesitate to contact me directly at jackelyngallo@bellouth.net or call our school at (985)643-3230.

God Bless You and have a wonderful day!

Friday, February 22, 2008 @ 8:09:58 PM

Houston, TX USA

Texas Fishing Folks - You probably already know that Texas Parks and Wildlife are considering capping the texas pogie catch.  They just put up some information on the web - you can see it here: http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/business/feedback/public_comment/proposals/200803_saltwater_fishing_proposal.phtml

Due to the fundamental role that pogies play in the Gulf marine food web (they're critically important forage for everything from redfish to sharks and brown pelicans), we're asking TP&W to do a bit more than just cap the catch:

(feel free to cut and paste into the TP&W form)

The cap is an important first step.  Please take these additional steps to ensure the Texas marine coastal ecosystem is as productive as possible.
• Set a temporary cap on menhaden fishing in Texas waters and start an assessment of menhaden that takes into account the needs of predators and the important role that menhaden play as filter feeders;
• Require industry-funded, government-trained observers on menhaden boats to count the amount of other sea life that gets killed in their nets;
• Stop menhaden fishing when the annual quota is met, without any 'rollover' quota allowed.

Without forage fish, marine birds, mammals, and fish go hungry.

The U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy urged fishery managers to manage America’s oceans using an ecosystem-based approach that addresses the interconnected nature of ocean life.  Forage fish are the glue that holds the marine food web together, converting tiny bits of algae into meals for fish, birds, and mammals.  Without abundant populations of forage fish, the Gulf will not support abundant, healthy populations of species such as red drum, dusky sharks and bottlenose dolphins.

If you want to take it one step further, please consider coming out and weighing in at one of the upcoming public hearings:

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Public Hearings

Comments on menhaden proposal will be heard (as well as other TP&W proposals)  

All meetings start at 7pm.

Beaumont       February 25     Jefferson County Courthouse, Ted Walker Jury Impaneling Room, 1149 Pearl Street

Nacogdoches  February 29     Commissioners Courtroom-Rm. 170, 101 W. Main

Dallas             February 27     Bass Pro Shop Conference Room, 5001 Bass Pro Drive, Garland

Dickinson       February 29     TPWD Dickinson Marine Lab, 1502 Pine St. (FM 517)

Austin             March 5           TPWD HQ, Commissioners Hearing Room, 4200 Smith School Rd

San Antonio    March 7           Lions Field Center, 2809 Broadway

Houston          March 12         North Harris College, 2700 W.W. Thorne Dr., Houston

To see a complete list of hearings, visit: http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/business/feedback/meetings/statewide_hearings/

Thursday, February 21, 2008 @ 10:48:15 AM