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 @ 7:24:35 PM

Cantonment, FL USA

Results from the Team Trails Redfish Delacroix Tournament

1 Paul Smith/Danny Smith 15.40
2 Mac McElroy/Andy Rodriguez 15.32
3 Raymond Reiser 15.31
4 Jason Leblanc/Jeremy Leblanc 14.72
5 Scott Ritter/Bobby Abruscato 14.69
6 Jason McCrossen/Matthew Harding 13.75
7 Pat Reichley/Nelda Reichley 13.35
8 Barnie White/Jason Miller 13.32
9 Chris Babin/Ted Tassin 13.05
10 Charlie Murray/Jeff Roberts 12.31
11 Gary Wilson/Brent Gros 11.92
12 Skip Floyd/Brian Mamer 11.79
13 Brig Booth 11.41
14 Chris Schieble/Mike Bushman 11.39
15 Brian Metcalf/Dwayne Mills 10.70
16 Brandon Parker/Bruce Howle 8.92
17 Joe Vanhooser/Jimmy Bowden 7.27
18 Brad Seal/Ric Guccione 5.35
19 Erik Nelson/Brian Steinried 5.25

The next Team Trails Redfish event on 26 July will be out of Hwy 90 Pearlington launch site.

Sunday, July 13, 2008 @ 5:04:27 PM

Port Fourchon, LA USA

COUPLE OF SEATS OPEN ON OVERNITE TUNA TRIP JUNE 28TH. FOURCHON, LA.

Had three people cancel on overnite tuna trip out of belle pass marine , Fourchon, la. on 28th of June.  Interested give me a call or email.

Capt. Tony Zara(407)247-6100

Sunday, June 15, 2008 @ 8:58:42 AM

Maurepas, LA USA

Going to Perdido for the 4th of July. Looking for great advise for offshore. How is the fishing off the coast? Anyone knows how far is the grass out?

Tuesday, June 10, 2008 @ 9:31:54 PM

Metairie, LA USA

Looking for contact information for a Captain Joe out of Destin Fl. Possible boat name is Rodeo. My brother in law has used him a couple of times and we would like to book a trip on the 29th of this month.

Wednesday, June 4, 2008 @ 3:20:31 PM

Biloxi, MS USA

Bill S, Shoot me an email. ccm883@aol.com. I'll turn you on to all the info I got. I went two weeks prior just for an info trip. By the way I live in Biloxi.

Wednesday, May 14, 2008 @ 9:00:12 AM

Abita Springs, LA USA

I'll be going to Destin in early June.  Does anyone have any pointers to catching some mackeral or Lemon fish close to shore.  I have a 19 ft bayboat so I was not planning on going to far offshore.  Any help would be great.

Monday, May 12, 2008 @ 9:07:41 PM

Panama City Beach, FL USA

Fished in the gale force winds this weekend in St. Andrews Bay around Panama City. Sought out the lee shoreline and found the trout. Caught too many to count. Drifted with the wind in 2.0 to 4.5 ft of water, using a Cajun Thunder cork, an 18" leader and a glow D.O.A. shrimp. My dad and I came home with a two man limit of really nice specks.

 Double Limit

Monday, May 12, 2008 @ 7:24:01 PM

mobile, AL USA

L.D.W.F. AGENTS CATCH FISHERMEN WITH 909 RED SNAPPER

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division agents wrote over 100 fishing citations to 20 men on Bayou Fourchon located in Lafourche Parish on Monday, April 28.

Agents stopped the charter boat, "The Captain Charlie", which was occupied by 18 paid fishermen, the captain and one deck hand. Agents boarded the vessel to conduct a creel and license check of the fish and persons aboard. Upon receiving consent from the captain of the vessel, agents allegedly found 27 ice chests holding 909 red snapper.

Agents counted and measured every fish aboard the vessel and found that of the 909 red snapper aboard the vessel, 287 of them were under the minimum 16-inch size requirement.

The recreational limit for red snapper is two per fisherman, and the captain and deckhands are not allowed to possess a limit. Agents also discovered that none of the 18 fishermen were Louisiana residents nor did they possess valid Louisiana non-resident basic and saltwater fishing licenses.

The 18 subjects that chartered the vessel, along with the captain and deckhand of the vessel were cited for 106 alleged violations. The citations included angling without a non-resident basic and saltwater fishing license, federal charges for possessing undersized and over the limit of red snapper, and taking red snapper during a closed season. The red snapper season is closed until June 1, 2008.

The following fishermen were charged:

David Harrelson, 52, Lockport, La., (Captain)
Donald R. Humphrey, 45, Golden Meadow, La., (Deckhand)
Artesza Portee, 35, Autell, Ga.
Glover Jefferson Jr., 69, Atlanta, Ga.
Walter Bailey Jr., 61, Atlanta, Ga.
Robert Kemp, 72, Atlanta, Ga.
James E. Williams, 65, Callaway, Fla.
Clyde E. Raiford, 68, Fayetteville, Ga.
Baxter R. Maddox, 67, Atlanta, Ga.
Leslie H. Durham, 45, Douglasville, Ga.
Cleveland B. Kemp Jr., 56, Conyers, Ga.
Harry Crosland, 67, Decatur, Ga.
Willie T. Epps, 72, College Park, Ga.
Lawrence Kendrick, 60, Atlanta, Ga.
Walter L. Gibson Jr., 38, Union City, Ga.
Warren R. Brownlee, 36, Palmetto, Ga.
Andrew R. Smith, 70, Decatur, Ga.
Kym D. Haywood, 44, Hapeville, Ga.
Charlie W. Patrick 68, Stone Mountain, Ga.
Earnest Sessoms, 79, Atlanta, Ga.

Agents seized the 909 red snapper, which weighed 2459 pounds, and were sold for a total of $9221.25.

Monday, May 5, 2008 @ 8:58:24 AM

biloxi, MS USA

I'm going to Destin next monday. Does anyone have any tips for me on landing a cobia?

Tuesday, April 29, 2008 @ 5:22:28 PM

Panama City Beach, FL USA

Caught 53 speckled beauties Sunday morning in West Bat drifting in the 3.5 - 4.5 foot range using a Cajun Thunder cork with an 18" leader and a D.O.A. glow shrimp. Took 3 1/2 hours to finally get my limit of 5. Took about 22 fish before I got the first keeper. Best trout fishing in this area that I have seen before. Check out the 5 girls in the box.

 5 Girls

Monday, April 28, 2008 @ 1:44:44 PM

diamondhead, MS USA

I was looking for some information from anyone that has taken a charter trip or runs a charter buisness out of Mexico Beach, FL. I am looking for a 4 hour trip for me and the wife at the end of the month.

Monday, April 14, 2008 @ 7:08:37 AM

Miami, FL USA

Spring Sanibel Adventure

By

Jan S. Maizler



A Growing Desire-

Too much time had passed since I’d fished the waters of my “second home”, Sanibel Island, Florida. My incessant desire prompted me to contact my friend (and fishing guide extraordinaire) Captain Mike Smith in January- months before the traditional snook and tarpon season commenced in May.

Mike quickly sensed the familiar magic spell and allure that Sanibel fishing had on me as well as his many other clients; but he recognized that even the most pressing angling desires had to be matched with realistic timing in achieving a successful trip. In that light, he felt that the earliest and most decent opportunity would appear in the month of March, which usually marks the emergence of the new year from the most severe and persistent cold fronts. As usual, he wanted our fishing day to be on either the new moon or full moon: two times of the month when the increased current and tidal levels create more optimized game fish activity. I chose late March to fish with him under the double influence of personal desire turbocharged by deadline requirements.

Still, March as a Sanibel snook and tarpon month always carries the risk of cold fronts as well as featuring lower water temperatures than in April or May. Mike’s go-to plan for us was traveling to and fishing the warmest water possible. He explained that this would mean we’d be taking a long run up the Caloosahatchee River and fish “downstream” of the power plant’s heated discharge. In addition, because there were drought conditions in the last year, the salt water extended far upstream which made an inland habitat for snook and tarpon quite “salinity-hospitable.”

Rumble Time-

And what a good strategy that turned out to be! March 21st was a cold day with 25 M.P.H. northeast winds, perfect for the inland planning so well anticipated by Captain Mike. I met him and his gleaming and live-bait filled Lake and Bay boat at 9:00 a.m. at the Punta Rassa boat ramp. I was stoked and ready to go since I’d arrived at the historic Island Inn the day before and charged my batteries by some restful shelling, a macadmia-encrusted grouper dinner at the Inn’s Traditions restaurant, and a good night’s sleep in one of the Inn’s delightful Gulf view rooms.

Mike fired up his 225 H.P. Yamaha engine and off we rocketed into a one-hour travel period that would have lasted half the time but for the restrictions of three no-wake zones. During those periods when we dropped off warp-speed, Mike explained that we’d be “combat fishing” dock, piling, and bridge structure for snook that ran from 8 to 25 pounds. Towards that end, we’d be using tarpon-sized spinning rods that utilized 30-pound PowerPro braided line, 2 feet of 40-pound fluorocarbon leader, and a 1/0 Owner J-hook.

When we arrived at the first spot (and one of the most challenging), which was a maze of pilings along a seawall, Mike told me to use absolute “zero-tolerance” pressure on any hooked fish until it was out of the structure and then immediately go to a more moderate battle tactic as it got closer to the boat and out of harm’s way. This was essential since the light leader and smaller hook, which were so necessary to draw a lot of strikes, could only take a limited amount of extreme strain. I mentioned to Mike that this seemed more like combat fishing with one arm only!

Mike started chumming with live whitebaits and the boils of striking snook, tarpon, and jacks began almost immediately. When the dust settled, I succeeded in jumping 6 tarpon, released 3 jacks to 5 pounds, lost 7 snook to the pilings, and released snook of 8, 12, and 18 pounds. Because of the delicate leader, the last 2 fish sheared the leader before Mike could get a good grip on their lips for posing a picture, although the fish were “on the leader” for quite a while to qualify for releases.

On one of our last and least-daunting spots that featured only mild structure, I released 6 small snook in a row.

Although the trip took five hours and involved chumming and fishing with hundreds of live whitebaits, it seemed like barely an hour had passed! Yet, as usual, this trip was a typical Captain Mike Smith charter that was successful, pleasant, and gratifying in a way that makes fishing with Mike so enjoyable!


The Island Inn-

This venerable lodging on Sanibel Island began in 1895 and continues pleasing visitors over 100 years later. This wonderful resort facility sits in the epicenter of the island with 550 feet of Gulf beachfront.

The Inn’s accommodations feature 3 lodges and several cottages adorned in the Olde Florida manner. The rooms generally have a Gulf view, and all are equipped with kitchens, telephones, cable TV, air conditioning, as well as screened-in porches or balconies.

Activities include world-famous shelling, croquet, shuffleboard, tennis courts, and a heated pool. The aforementioned Traditions Restaurant at the Inn is one of the best eateries in the general Fort Myers area.

I found that my stay at the Island Inn was entirely gratifying and created the kind of unique experience that only a “native” destination with such a fine history of excellence can do.



Contact Data:

Island Inn
3111 West Gulf Drive
Sanibel island, Florida
1-800-851-5088
(239)-472-1561
http://www.islandinnsanibel.com/
E-Mail: info@islandinnsanibel.com

Captain Mike Smith
1-239-573-FISH (3474)
http://www.mangroveislandcharters.com/

 Sanibel Snook

Sunday, March 30, 2008 @ 12:27:48 AM

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 @ 9:29:25 AM

Covington, LA United States

I am going to Marianna Florida to fish shellcrackers in Merrit's Mill Pond on the full moon in April.  Can anyone give me any contact info on Bait Stands or who I could call for info on the area?  I used to fish there often but I haven't been back in about 25 years.  Any info would be appreciated.

Saturday, March 22, 2008 @ 5:52:19 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 @ 8:15:31 PM

Venice, LA USA

Good Day

Im sorry about the chop shop pilot i put together for Towers of Life but i wasnt going to spend a enormous amount of time organizing over 400 tapes, but you get the picture.

I have the largest collection of video from the platforms east Alabama to west of Texas that exist.I spent over fifteen years collecting the life that surrounds our rigs in hopes of educating the public,science and industry of the positive affects these structures hold.

Just about anyone can sit behind a desk and guess what happens down there but holding a camera for 3 to five days a week with a minimum of five to six dives each day really tells the story. I am going to give you a fish eye view of how incredible our ecosystem is.

I will bring you through primordial soup like micro organisims to our large variety of mamals that live in our gulf to your living room.

This peice is great for all ages expecially the kids and grand kids so they in the future can help stop the distruction of these fragile ecosystems.

I strongly believe they should be viewed as rare trees and protected or used in other eco positive ways such as wind and wave energy,mariculture ect....

I will be selling this DVD by March 31 to the public exclusively here on RodnReel.com so that you to can enjoy what i have been so lucky to experience in my 20 plus years of diving the Gulf Of Mexico.

I will also be donating a portion of the proceeds to "Project Rebuild Plaquemines" as well.

Thank You

Monday, February 18, 2008 @ 2:58:44 PM

Mobile, AL USA

FREE Boat Show Tickets

I just wanted to let the locals know that EVEROL fishing reels, which recently moved to Mobile from Miami, will be at the Mobile Boat Show (FEB21-24) and also at the Louisiana Sportsmen's Show (MAR 6-9).

We will have a large booth and plenty of reels to see and touch...and buy if you are so inclined.  But in any case please stop by the booth, shake my hand and introduce yourself.

Just for fun I thought I would give away a 2 pack of tickets to the Mobile show.  So to determine the winner, I will ask an Everol trivia question and the first one to respond on this forum with the correct answer will be the winner.  You can email me (EverolUSA@yahoo.com) your name and address and I will pop the tickets in the mail tomorrow or as soon as we have a winner.  If you guys don't think the contest is dorky, maybe we can have more in the coming days.

QUESTION:  What is the first and last name of Everol's founder?   

Bonus Question:  Name the Year Everol was started and I will make it a 4 pack of tickets.

Oh by the way, for those that are coming to the Mobile Boat Show, I am giving away a FREE Reel on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, so stop by the booth and register to win.

Keith Wichmann
EverolUSA, President

Monday, February 11, 2008 @ 10:11:11 PM

Venice, LA USA

Good day

I have been wanting to post some fishing reports but have been very busy lately.

The question still remains when are the fish going to show on the lump?I believe strongly they will push through in heavy numbers before the season is out so dont give up yet.Only god knows when this will happen.

I have been fishing elsewhere and have not been to the lump this year but am still grabbing a couple here and there.I wish a serious cold front would push through to drop the water temps some as this past week i was amazed to come across packs of dolphin and in some cases these fish were pushing 40 pounds.

As far as the spearfisherman are concerned it cant get any better than this as the warm waters are allowing them to get awsome dives in in cold blue waters.This week i watched some serious fish hung down at Venice Marina.Mark Pert killed a 106 amberjack on scuba and Chad Grizwall shot a 96 amberjack freediving{Unbelievable}.Steve Hartly killed a 120 class fish and Bill Crawford along with Cameron Kirkconnell speared eight wahoo's with the largest being 118!

Cameron now has moved my old buddy John Cheesemans 109 to the second place hooter ever shot here.Congrats Cameron!

I am seeing many folks discouraged about the lump situation but i have witnessed this before and watched the lump produce heavy fish into the begining of April about seven years ago.It can turn on in a split second so keep at it.

RIP  Mr. Phillips you were a great man and i was damn proud to know you sir......

Monday, February 11, 2008 @ 5:54:49 PM

Metairie, LA USA

RodnReelTV.com is your 24/7 Sportsman's Channel.

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Click here to watch or "broadcast" your own show!

Saturday, February 9, 2008 @ 3:20:50 AM

Venice, LA USA

Hey gang a quick response to a couple mails i got tonight.

The question is can private boats enter the tourney.The answer is yes as i already have quite a few private boats entered.

Just go to tunakahunarodeo.com and enter it is simple.

The cost is two hundred bucks for the contest that ends March 31,2008.

Most tournaments have entry fees in the thousands for a three day event but i wanted to make this affordable for all anglers.If you got fishing bros that fish with you just chip in together.What you got to lose?10,000 and a new truck or a thirty thousand dollar wahoo prize or a diving adventure with Manny"Shark Man"Puig?

Xtreme

Tuesday, February 5, 2008 @ 10:46:39 PM

Venice, LA USA

Heres a shot of Kahuna Captain Jeff Thiery and his rugged first mate Adam Parnell.

 Can You Dig It?

Tuesday, February 5, 2008 @ 4:30:47 PM

Venice, LA USA

Good day
Just getting around to give some details on the Tuna Kahuna Fishing Rodeo but first a fishing report from Saturday.
Was down in Venice installing my new radar from Furuno and Bayou Marine electronics{Thanks!} that is bad to the bone on thurs,friday and was looking to head home and hang with the family when i got a call from one of my buds down there and he said he needs me to fish.
I said dude im heading home im sick with pink eye my new steering is not right and im waiting on my shipment of rods and reels i'll call someone for you and he simply said no i really need you to fish.
I,ve been in this position before so i said i'll go lend me some rods.No problem man.
So that night around midnight i simply could not take the snoring any longer{my wife said Ya See!}so i went and hopped in my truck and had a crapy night of sleep then boom,boom,boom my buddy Trey is hitting the window at 5:30 saying lets go bra!I was like oh my god i got a chipper first mate so thats a relief.
We hit the dock and i tell the guys look this is a off the hip charter i got all my gear stollen and what you get is what ya see, wanna go?They said yes.
We got on the boat and for the first time before the trip i surveyed my gear that looked like it had been fished hard and drug home every night behind the truck to the camp.
We had one TLD 30,one Penn 50,one Tiagra on a bent butt and a spinning rod with a old trusty Angry Popper.For tackle we had one pack of sabikis,one box of hooks and three unrigged pulling baits with no wire and two squid chains.I looked at one of the guys and said are you sure you wanna go and he replied we got confidence in ya cap.On that nice comment i said load up.
On the way out i ran into a guy that needed directions to the lump cause his gps was out he asked me and graciously gave me some wire.Thanks man cause that stop made our day!
Trey wired us up as we headed down the river and i felt better.Our first stop was wahoo infested as i thanked god every time the reels went off.
After staying there for about 45 min. i went to the next spot and three lines went off on the first pass and we mannaged one.Then again and again on each rig as i now was telling god out loudly you are the man!No longer than i said that Trey said Al look in the distance yellows are busting so bang we got on them with two sqiuddys dragging and again managed a single out of a double. Hit one more rig for hoo's and that was it as we found two shrimp boats and got nothing so headed in about 3:00.
The moral of this story is ya just need a little confidence and four crazy dudes from Kentucky and you got a trip of a lifetime.
Tuna Kahuna Fishing Rodeo Update
Mr. Blake Turner of Alabama is holding the purse of ten grand and was just shy of a new truck with his 234.Mr Blake is a correction officer at a state prison and according to Capt. Jeff of the Dorado he handled the fish as if he was a correcion officer of a State Prison.Congradulations to you bro and thanks for fishing the rodeo.
Most folks that heard of this fish hitting the dock might think twice about joining the tournament now because it is such a big fish to beat.
My advice to you is dont join the rodeo because there are no "Girly Men" allowed.I want anglers that have the "confidence" to beat that fish to join in on a tournament that i will do every year until i die because some many people are enjoying the fun competition.The wahoo catagory i get the same questions about man how can you beat a 139 and my answer is that almost every year i see monster wahoo out there and is some cases in the 160 range so i know without the shadow of a doubt you cant beat it if you try.
I was putting this rodeo on before i decided to donate a portion of the money's to "Project Rebuild Plaquemines" and if i lose money i dont care it was just something that has been talked about for a long time so i just did it.
I did not ask for sponsors because i wanted to sponsor it myself even though RodnReel and Louisiana Sportsman stepped up to the plate.I must say that i dont fish rodeo's at all but after expeirencing the cost,time and effort i will support rodeos and fish them starting this summer.
I guess i got burnt out on tourneys as my whole life used to be living from one spearfishing rodeo to another.
The rodeo is a open book and my main goal is to cut a big check for the kids as when this rodeo is over "Project Rebuild Plaquemines" will not be.We have serious funds already on the table and i will see to it that at least four playgrounds are done by the end of this year no matter what.We need funds for a total of six.Thats where you the sportsman comes in.Buy a shirt take a chance at the raffel or go fishing for the cause.
Emily Campbell of "Project Rebuild Plaquemines" called the other night letting me know about a line on playground equipment she has found and possible help from Mrs.Jenna McDonald of "Save Our Children Foundation" and to me thats even more exciting than a 234 tuna believe it or not.
We are also trying to tie into Brad Pitts "Make it right Foundation" for housing development in the Parish as well.We have sketches of housing that would be safe and structually eye pleasing for the area.Im simply tired of seeing people with familys living in FEMA trailors even more so when they are my friends.
I want to give a big thank you for all that are participating and a BIG shout out to Venice Marina and Capt. Chris Moran of Cajun Made Charters of Fourchon Marina for all you guys are doing,yall go see Capt. Chris he runs a first class operation.I also want to give a apology to the Alabama boats that are not yet up on the site as i will handel that shortly.

Congrats Doc Henry"You Da MAn" but i sure wish you and JJ Tabor would leave my fish alone.Im sure if you look closely to those fish you can see some old spear wounds.
Xtreme

 No Girly Men Allowed

Tuesday, February 5, 2008 @ 2:46:47 PM

Destin, FL USA

On Sunday, we took a trip out to the Ozark wreck south of Destin onboard Starvin Marlin, a 64 Viking with Capt. Steve Gilliam at the helm and first mate Dennis "Spanky" Hill. We trolled for about an hour looking for tuna or wahoo, but all we found were some small bonita. We then switch over to live pinfish and went down deep with 16 oz of weight and had very steady action of Amberjack. The fish ranged in size from 10lbs to 35lbs. It was pretty steady until everyone's arms were sore. Great half day winter trip.

Wednesday, January 30, 2008 @ 9:43:41 PM

Ocean Springs, MS USA

Hi. I'm moving from the Mississippi coast this year to St Augustine. I do a ton of offshore fishing with my dad, and a lot of inshore fishing on my own. Is there anyone from the St. Augustine area on this website? I'd like someone that will tell me a lil about ya'lls fishing, and the kids in St.Augustine. Im a sophmore in highschool now and our school is obssesed with fishing. Is there a decent amount of teens in St. Augustine who know what their doing when they go fishin. Thnx guys. I appreciate any advice.

Wednesday, January 30, 2008 @ 7:17:20 PM

Ocean Springs, MS USA

Hi. I'm moving from the Mississippi coast this year to St Augustine. I do a ton of offshore fishing with my dad, and a lot of inshore fishing on my own. Is there anyone from the St. Augustine area on this website? I'd like someone that will tell me a lil about ya'lls fishing, and the kids in St.Augustine. Im a sophmore in highschool now and our school is obssesed with fishing. Is there a decent amount of teens in St. Augustine who know what their doing when they go fishin. Thnx guys. I appreciate any advice.

Wednesday, January 30, 2008 @ 7:17:19 PM

destrehan, LA USA

I am looking for a Ruger .44 Magnum Carbine Rifle for deer hunting. Anyone know where I might find one for sale? Thanks in advance for any replies.

Tuesday, January 29, 2008 @ 9:35:03 AM

Metairie, LA USA

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Saturday, January 19, 2008 @ 5:25:42 AM

Mobile, AL USA

EVEROL REELS ARE BACK IN THE U.S.!

On Friday an investor group closed on the purchase of Florida-based, Pesce Trade, the exclusive distributor of Everol fishing reels in the United States.  The new operation will be renamed EverolUSA and is relocating to Mobile, Alabama.  EverolUSA is planning a bold re-launch in the North American market.

From its small factory in Italy, Everol has handcrafted the world's finest since 1958.  Our reels are handmade one at a time.  The 1960's and 70's were Everol's glory days in the U.S. market, where their reputation for superior design and unique drag scale was nationally recognized.  To be honest though, 20 years of non-existent marketing has destroyed Everol's domestic brand recognition.  This is about to change.

But first, I need to apologize

Before we can go forward, we need to apologize for some past mistakes.  Our fanatically loyal fan base endured long wait times, insufficient inventory, unfilled orders, and slow customer service. There have been plenty of screw ups over the past decade.  The new owners of EverolUSA sincerely say, "We are sorry."  Over the coming months you will see many positive changes.  We ask for your patience and positive suggestions on how we can best bring back this legendary brand.

The good news is Everol still offers the best damn reels money can buy.  At least we think so.otherwise we would not have bought the company.  Any reel in this class is a sizeable investment.  But for your money, should you not get a Ferrari instead of a Ford?  We have good reason to say Everol is "Your Grandson's Next Reel".  

I now need your help.

Our first order of business is updating the Everol.com website to something that is vibrant, interesting and dedicated to these great battle-wagon reels.  I am asking the Everol loyalists to submit your Everol pictures, videos, and stories so we may include your input in the new website.  Second, tell your fishing buddies about the features that made Everol reels great for 50 years.  If they are still unsure, have them contact me directly.  Everol needs your "active" support right now.

24 Models and Growing

In January 2008, we are introducing a new model called the Canyon Special.  (Imagine the power of a 9/0 reel shrunk into the body of a 4/0 reel.)  Also, Everol is now prototype testing a new 2 speed version of the Waterproof 12/20, which will be publicly available in late 2008 / early 2009.  We are seeking product testers if you want to be a part of the Everol Army and have your opinion influence the final design.

Thank you so very much for your past and future support,
Order an Everol today!

Keith Wichmann
EverolUSA, President

p.s. We are currently rebuilding our dealer network, so if you want to nominate your favorite tackle store, charter boat, or fishing team please email me.  And certainly remind them of those powerful Everols that have caught thousands of black marlin and great whites are still available in the U.S.  

EverolUSA@yahoo.com

Friday, December 28, 2007 @ 3:11:57 PM

Dauphin Island, AL USA

New news in on the winter tournament out of Venice this winter. They are calling it the Tuna Kahuna tournament and it will run Jan. 1 thru March 31.  Entry fees are $300 per boat for the entire season.  Angler tickets will be $20 per day. The largest tuna for the season will bring home $10,000.  The largest tuna and wahoo for each month will bring home an additional $1,000 each.  A state record tuna will drive home in a new Ford 150.  A new state record wahoo will put $30,000 in your pocket. There is also going to be a mako catagory.  The winner in it will recieve a fishing trip with Manny "The Shark Man".  All the proceeds for the tournament will go to help rebuild playgrounds and parks. There will be an awards banquet held on April the 5 in Venice.

I am looking forward to participating in what I hope to be an annual event.  

Capt. Jeff
DORADO
241-861-5836  

 Records Were Made To Be Broken

Sunday, December 16, 2007 @ 5:17:28 PM

cincinnati, OH USA

Could someone tell me if there is a site regarding the records concerning the biggest of any species caught and the recorded sizes and weights?  My son lives in Ft. myers and on a recent fishing trip in Boca Grande he caught a large Bull Shark. Enjoy the pic

Sunday, December 2, 2007 @ 2:17:11 AM

Panama City Beach, FL USA

Got up into Burnt Mill Creek Sunday morning and found 15 specks, not too far back yet into the creek, but getting there. All throwbacks, though. Water was falling pretty good all morning. Makes for an interesting ride back out of the area at low tide. Anybody reading this know of a better way to get in and out of there? I go in the main channel, between the PVC pipes, then up past the launch on the left. When I get to the old shrimp boat by the dock on the right I take a left and head through the narrow cut that takes me over to the other part of the main creek. Then you need to hug the left shoreline from there until you get past the camps and the bridge. Does that main part of the creek run all the way down to West Bay, or do you have to make that cut through a fairly shallow area? Am I missing a channel somewhere? Is Crooked Creek any easier to navigate?

Monday, November 19, 2007 @ 4:15:49 PM

Miami, FL USA

It was a wonderful weekend to travel to the preeminent southwest Florida leader in kayaking, Grande Tours (www.grandetours.com). Their facility sits on Coral Creek in Placida and just inside of lovely Gasparilla Sound. Although most of my experience with marine fishing vessels was from pushing skiffs with a pushpole since 1962,it was clear that a gaping hole in my shallow water stealth arsenal was the mastery of kayak fishing- so I came to Grande Tours as a student.

I