Hook Line and Threader
Live bait always trumps fresh (dead) baits. One technique that has been used frequently in areas where fresh live bait is not available is the Hook, Line and Threader.
The Hook, Line and Threader is a technique where a live fish or a variety of crustacean is used still alive and active with a hook embedded into it’s body without harming it.
This technique is used by many anglers to mixed success.
The technique uses a stainless steel threader or needle inserted in the mouth of the live bait fish, pushing the needle threader through the organ cavity and out through the anal opening. Then a attaching a looped leader with a double or treble hook on the other. Slowly and carefully, then pulling the needle threader back out of the mouth of the fish.
Once loop end of leader is through the mouth, attach it to your main line.
The threaded bait should either be cast with split shot weight or free lining into your favorite spot.
If done carefully, there is little harm to the fish. And the fish or crustacean will survive in the water for hours if not damaged by a predator.
The Hook, Line and Threader can be used on a many species of bait fish and many crustaceans.
Will this work in your region? Anybody’s guess! That’s why they call it fishing.
Until next time – Tightlines – Capt Tony
For All the Marbles
August and Fishing Tournaments in our region are synonymous. This time of year anglers from all over the east coast and beyond converge around the mid-Atlantic and the Outer Banks for the big money and bragging rights to who is the “top dog”. There are three notable tournaments in the mix right now.
The first tournament is the 41st Ocean City Maryland White Marlin Open. This tournament is happening this week from 4-8 August 2014. The Outer Banks boasts twelve boats participating – eight from Pirates Cove and four from Oregon Inlet. And as of mid-week, there are several home town boys included on the leaderboard.
Hurricane Bertha did nothing to hinder their competitiveness in this monster of a tournament. Prize monies can get into the millions so these anglers are going for broke. So as they say in tournament language, “Game On”!!
This tournament can be followed on their web site at: Whitemarlinopen.com
The next two tournaments start this weekend in the Outer Banks.
The first one is the 25th Alice Kelly Memorial Ladies Only Billfish Tournament, Manteo North Carolina. It is happening Saturday, 9 August for registration and Caption’s meetings. Then one-day fishing and awards on 10 August. And sorry guys – it’s “ONLY LADIES”. This tournament is in memory of a special angler, Alice Kelly who succumbed to cancer at a very young age. It is the premier fund raising event and all proceeds go to the Outer Banks Cancer Support group. So if you are in the area, stop by Pirates Cove and support this very special function.
The next one is the 31st Pirates Cove Billfish Tournament. This tournament like the White Marlin Open is a world-class event held at the Pirates Cove Marina, Manteo, North Carolina. It supports many charities on the Outer Banks. Hundreds anglers from all over the east coast and beyond vie for purses that can exceed several hundred thousand dollars. And like the Alice Kelly, this is one not to be missed.
Both of these Pirates Cove Tournaments can be followed on pcbgt.com.
So if you are in the area, come and help these charities and the support the angling community for one or both of these world class events. There is nothing like seeing how the big “Boys and pretty Ladies” show off their stuff.
And then you would be able to say, I was there to see grown men and ladies fight for “All the Marbles”.
Until next time – Tightlines – Capt. Tony
The Usual Summer Faire
Fishing on the Outer Banks in August moves our fishery from aggressive to slightly passive. The hot weather begins to warm our waters and the fishing slows down a bit. The surf and pier water temperatures can range between mid-seventies to lower eighties.
Sound temperatures can be even warmer. Our local species will seek cooler depths and when subjected to these changes and it causes them to become less likely to feed during those warmer parts of the day.
This temperature change causes most of large fish into deeper water and brings in the smaller ones who are now less fearful of predators. Although this is generally true, larger fish sometimes break that rule, so anything goes during this latter part of our summer.
In summer, I like to fish either early in the morning or early evening. The cooler air temperatures help cool the water and increases that bite.
Look for the outgoing tide during these times. If fishing on the surf, fish close in. Most of our summer species are feeding on the small sand fleas right in the wash. The slough, a shallow trough between the beach and sand bar is an excellent spot to find fish.
The best bet in August for our first time or regular angler is to grab a light to medium rod with a standard two hook bottom rig, bait it with a small piece of squid, shrimp or blood worm and hit the beach.
If you want a little more variety, the other option is to visit one of our many piers or bridges. Same fishing process applies – fish early and late and focuses on the bottom species. When fishing on the piers, I first watch others – what are they catching and how then mimic their style.
So grab a rod and head out. You will have a great time exploring our summer fishery.
And as always, know the rules, purchase a license and return any un-wanted fish back into the water carefully. For more information on fishing our beaches and piers, see several of my previous blog posts.
Until next time, Tightlines – Capt. Tony
Preparation is the Key
Hurricane season started a month ago and this week we are expecting the first storm of the year. Even though, TS Arthur does not appear to pose a significant threat to the Outer Banks, now is a good time for boat owners to develop a safety plan.
For boat owners, the first order of business is to monitor the weather forecasts. There are many resources out there but the best one is the National Hurricane Center. Storms typically should never surprise us. They typically form and approach very slowly, there is plenty of news out there and that usually gives us plenty of time to prepare.
Securing your vessel is the most important move. There are two ways to handle this – leave it in the water or pull it to a trailer or a cradle.
If you plan to leave in the water, you should either re-locate it to a safe harbor or moor it in place. Obviously, re-locating it is the safest way. But if you choose leave it in place, then you should make sure to secure it safely. A “must-do” is to research the potential storm surge for your area. The worst thing that you can do is to secure your vessel with dock lines that are too tight. Rising tides will destroy your moorings and pull your cleats right off your boat. Determine the amount of slack needed based on surge and secure them accordingly.
Ultimately, the best option is to remove your boat from the water altogether. I always try to place mine on a trailer. This allows me to either leave it on the driveway or pull it to safer ground. The trailer option is great but be sure to also tie the vessel to the trailer and chock the wheels so it will not move.
The cradle option is also are great way to secure your boat; just make sure the cradle is in a safe place and if possible out of the wind.
If you keep your vessel in a marina, talk to the dock master about his preparation plan. And work with him and other boats owners on the best way to prepare and protect your vessels.
Next, all curtains and any loose gear should be removed. Lower your antenna and radar equipment. Think about removing the hull plug. Typically, storms can produce a tremendous amount of rain. Sometimes up to 10-12 inches. Even though you bilge pump is working fine under normal conditions, the amount of rain may over whelm it.
I could go on more but if you do a little research you will find plenty of other resources available to guide you in developing a prevention plan. Do not let a tragedy be your teacher. Play it safe. Good common sense can play a huge part in preparing your vessel for the hurricane season.
Once you finally have everything secure, do a once over and think of your vessel as a big sail and remove any part that could possibly catch the wind or water. Think about what can go wrong and address it before the storm arrives. The best plan to remove the threat of damage before fighting “mother nature” at her worst.
Good luck with this year’s hurricane season. And with good preparation and planning, you will ride it out fine.
Until next time – Tightlines – Capt. Tony
Back in Time – Fishing the Albatross Fleet
On Saturday 21 June, I had the opportunity to fish on the historic vessel Albatross II out of Hatteras Harbor Marina North Carolina. I fished that day with several friends from the Outer Banks Anglers Club.
Between spying the vessels from the dock that morning to the short chat I had with Captain Ernie Foster the night before lead me to believe that it was, in fact, going to be a memorable trip.
To sail into the Atlantic Gulf Stream with a captain and one of his vessels that actually created charter fishing on the Outer Banks 75 years ago was to say the least was just unbelievable.
On this day we arose early and assembled at the dock and climbed aboard the Albatross II at 0600 am. Within minutes, the mate had thrown the dock lines and Captain Ernie was turning the grand dame of a vessel toward the inlet.
Early on the cloudy skies and churning seas gave us insight that we would need to work for our prey that day. But the Captain was confident and vessel was ready and the anglers were up for the challenge.
With minutes of setting the lines in the Gulf Stream at 0730, we hooked up with our first dolphin. There would be several more early morning. We could now confidently say, “We would not be skunk”.
Over the course of the next several hours and despite of some heavy rain squalls and wind, hooked up with a beautiful white marlin (and yes she put on quite a dance show), we teased a big blue marlin in our spread without a hook up and landed several skipjacks.
But probably the most amazing sight of the day was when we witnessed close to hundred Mahi Mahi bust the surface right in front of us trying to escape a larger prey. We suspect that it may have been a one or many blue marlin chasing them into the air. Captain Ernie remarked that it wasn’t what we saw jumping that was amazing, but what we didn’t see lurking under the seas chasing those fish.
We finished the day with a school of baler dolphin. The small batch of fish were found just off the end of a long grass line. And after all the frenzy and determination, the school of balers were safely in the fish box.
Finally, while cruising home, I witnessed an amazing sight – about what the meaning of “respect your elders” really was.
As the Albatross II was on a steady course into the harbor, I saw many other charter vessels following at a safe distance. Each one could have just as easily pasted us by, but each one held steadfast behind her majesty – the grand dame. Just watching the grand old lady lead the fleet home and the fellow charter captains allow her “first billing” – well what a sight.
What better way for the fleet to respond but to respect and acknowledge the greatness of this captain and his fleet.
Until next time – Tightlines – Captain Tony
SPOTTED SEATROUT RECREATIONAL – SEASON RE-OPENS
The Spotted Seatrout recreational season will re-open this Sunday, June 15, 2014 at 12:01 A.M.
The minimum size will not be less then 14 inches total length. And the recreational bag limit is not more than four (4) spotted seatrout per day by hook and line.
This fishery was closed this past winter after a significant cold stun event in February 2014.
Please note that just because this fishery has re-opened, it does not mean that it is free-run on this species.
Please practice good conservation techniques. Return all unwanted fish to the water carefully.
Until next time – Tightlines – Capt. Tony
Surf Fishing is Fun
Fishing on the surf is one of the most relaxing and least expensive activities you can do at the beach. All you need is a rod, reel and several items to enjoy this hobby.
The first thing you want to do is research the regulations. Make sure you know the limits of any species you catch. Also, you may need a license to fish on our beaches. Licenses and rules can be obtained at any local tackle shop.
Next is selecting the spot on the beach. I always check with other local anglers or tackle shops for this information. They can usually point you in the right direction. But basically, any spot on our beach will hold fish.
Like any sport, you will need specific gear. These items will include a good medium seven rod and reel set up, a bottom rig, package of hooks, several different size sinkers and bait. If you don’t have your own rod and reel set up, a complete package can be purchased any tackle supply shop.
The standard rod and reel will already be rigged with line. You will attach the bottom rig to the line. You can either tie the rig directly to the line or tie a snap swivel to the line first and then hook the rig to this connector. A snap swivel allows for a quick change over if you need to replace the bottom rig. Not needed, but attaching the rig either way works great.
Next you want to install the hooks. Number four or six size hooks work fine. I slide the loop end of the hook line over the bottom rig loop and slip the hook through the bottom rig loop. This creates a strong connection. A sinker is attached to the bottom of the rig. I carry different size sinkers and attach the lightest one that will allow me to hold the bottom.
Bait is the most important component. I use table fare shrimp or fish bites. Do not peel the shrimp; just place a small piece on each hook. Sometimes, I insert a small quarter inch piece of a fish bite over the hook after the shrimp. This keeps the shrimp on the hook and prevents smaller fish from stealing the bait before a larger fish eats it. Remember – the fresher the bait – the better the chance for success.
Most bottom fish can be found within fifteen feet of our shore line. So cast just over the waves. Let the bait sit on the bottom and wait for the bite. The bite feels like a tap tap tap. When you feel the bite, just raise your rod tip and reel in. If your line moves on the bottom, change to the next size up sinker.
It’s that simple.
Fishing on the Outer Banks surf can be fun for the entire family. It’s inexpensive and an easy thing to do.
In my photo, I included a number of other parts of your fishing bag – sand spike, tape measure, finger nail clippers, piers, hand towel and a small knife. A copy of the NC Coastal Recreational Angler’s Guide is also a great resource. As with all hobbies, your gear may include dozens of other items – but these are the basics.
One final tip – release all fish carefully that you are not going to keep so they may be caught again. This resource can be depleted quickly if we don’t practice good conservation.
So the next time you have a little free time and want to learn a new hobby – take up fishing on our coast. It’s a great place to enjoy the outdoors and our beautiful beaches.
Until next time – Tightlines – Capt. Tony
Fishing the OBX Piers in the Spring
All of the Outer Banks Piers are now open. This second week in April signifies the official beginning of the spring fishing season. Even though the air and water temperatures are typically very cool, a variety of warmer weather fish begin to show up.
Now is a good time to discuss spring fishing gear for the pier.
I always start with a good medium 7-1/2 to 8 foot rod and spinning reel setup. I use monofilament line in the 12-16 lb. test range. A standard two hook bottoms rigged with #2 to #4 “J” hooks will work fine for this time of year.
Pyramid lead sinkers are great to hold the sea bottom – but you must select the correct size depending on the currents. Most times 2 oz. or 3 oz. is your best bet. Go lighter first then move up if needed.
Don’t have a rod that meets these recommendations. One of our local tackle shops can help fit you with the best gear for what’s catching. If you are a visitor and don’t have a place at home to store it after your vacation, most piers will rent you the gear for a minimal fee.
One tip to always keep in mind – even though the big box stores have inexpensive gear – it is not always quality stuff. Depend on the local tackle shops for gear and advice. You will not regret it especially when you are about to catch that trophy and the equipment fails.
Along with the fishing gear, you will also need some bait and a small cooler. I use fresh shrimp or fish bites this time of year. Buy only fresh shrimp and remember, fish don’t care for “cooked” bait – “keep it in a cooler or at least out of the sun”.
A small piece of shrimp or fish bait is all you will need. Just cover the hook.
Next, you will need back up supplies in the event you lose your tackle. I bring a small canvas bag for extra hooks and bottom rigs and different size weights. I also bring a small knife, finger nail clippers, pair of piers or hook removers. I have found that a five gallon plastic bucket can hold most of your gear with no trouble. Sunglasses are without saying the most important thing “not to forget”.
Finally, I pack sunscreen, hat, snack, and cool drink. You might even consider a light jacket. A small cart helps transport gear but it is really not needed.
In final item, is a camera for the once in a lifetime shots.
So if you a first time or regular visitor to our beautiful area and have never fished, this is a great time to start. For locals – its as easy as walking across the street. Fishing – especially with the kids – holds a lifetime of memories.
Don’t forget to check for the specific fishing regulations including bag limits and licensing requirements. For more advice or tips on spring fishing on the Outer Banks, please contact me.
Until next time – Tightlines – Capt. Tony
A Little Diamond of a Place
Following a recommendation for a good fishing spot is plain vanilla for most but locating a new spot that turns out to be perfect by accident is a diamond. This is what happened to me during a recent trip in east central Florida.
We had a free day between two MLB Spring Training games and decided to do some sightseeing in Brevard County. We traveled east from Route 95 over the Merritt Island Causeway when we got stopped at defective traffic signal. Looking for a place to turn around, we ended up in a parking lot of a restaurant and an old bait shop. The two buildings were at the base of the Causeway Bridge and just east of Indian River.
The tackle shop was located down a long driveway between the causeway and a small cove off the Indian River. The drive was well worn and past its usefulness but I was still able to find a safe parking spot. The shop was an old building converted into a bar, pool hall and bait shop.
I found an old dock adjacent to a cove with flat water and a new dock and walkway that extended out along the north base of the causeway bridge.
Cove had flat water close in and a fast current within a short cast of the old dock. The Indian River which fed the cove is one part of a large estuary along the east coast of Florida. The system consists of the Mosquito Lagoon, Banana River and the Indian River. So there was a good chance that fish would be there.
I tried several methods finally settling on live shrimp suspended under a weighted bullet float. My 7-1/2 foot light Falcon rod and Daiwa reel were my only other tools.
It seemed once I hit that change in water speed and bottom configuration, the fishing was tremendous. Every other cast was productive. Small throw back speckled trout was the main stay but blow toads kept me busy baiting back up.
Many times we over look an out-of-the-way places because they either look strange from the road or difficult to access. Keep an eye out for these unique spots. These just might be your next diamond.
Until next time – Tightlines – Capt. Tony
NCsaltaire 