Archive for March, 2012
Heading to Florida Again
It would be hard to picture life without fishing.
People who do not fish do not understand the therapeutic value of fishing, losing you to the motion of the waves and just relaxing.
The best things about fishing are where you do it, and that you do not carry a score card.
This saying was found on “fishin franks” web page. This tackle shop is located in Port Charlotte, Florida. If fishing in this area, Fishin Franks must be your first stop.
Look at future posts this week for our fishing experiences and tips from our southwest Florida spring trip.
Until next time, Tightlines
March is Like a Lamb
March usually comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb but this year its been a lamb all year. The weather has been just outstanding with beautiful blue skies and mild breezes. We had some cooler weather lately but nothing like years past.
This week the weather is turning from cooler to warm with daytime temps into the lower 80’s. Water temps are still in the 50’s but as previously posted, warm water is close.
Traveled west of here earlier in the week and saw something foreign to me over the past several months. Anglers fishing for shad on the Daniels Bridge.
Shad are a type of herring but grow a little larger. Typically, you will find them in the eastern carolina tidal creeks in March. But we always get a run in the sounds. You can catch them on small spoons, flies and a variety of artificials. Shad are more active in the warmest part of the day so go late.
Piers are reporting dogfish, skates and some puffers. And the southern beaches are seeing some drum move into the area.
Tip of the week – Ready the gear because once the fish are here there is no time to deal with rusty equipment.
If you plan to fish on Hatteras Island this year, don’t forget to get your vehicle pass. The park service is beginning to enforce the rule now. $120 for an annual pass or $50 for the weekend. Tough choice. Getting mine Saturday.
Until next time – Tightlines
Avalon Pier Opens this Month
It’s beginning to feel like spring. 
Day light saving time started today and temperatures are increasing each day. Water temps are still cool in the 50s. along our entire shoreline. It is only a matter of time before the seasonal southwest breezes bring the fish back into our waters.
I am already hearing some reports that there are big drum being caught in Ocracoke Island. And Dog fish and skates are still testing the anglers patience on Jennette’s Pier.
The best news of the day is that the Avalon Fishing Pier will open for the season on 24 March. Hours were not posted but a least we will have a second option to reach into the ocean.
Stopped by the Great Bridge Fisherman’s Flea Market yesterday and had a great time. Not sure the tally of visitors but it definitely exceeded past years. A time well spent.
Until next time, Tightlines
Fishing Flea Market and Swap Meet – One Week to Go
There is only one week to go until the Great Bridge Fisherman’s Association 3rd Annual “Fishing Flea Market and Swap Meet”.
The Fishing Flea Market and Swap meet will be held at the Hickory Ruritan Club on South Battlefield Blvd, Chesapeake, Virginia on 10 March from 0800 to 1500 hrs. It is just a short drive from the Outer Banks or anywhere in southeastern Virginia. Rain or shine. Parking is free but there is a $3 entrance fee.
This flea market and swap meet is both entertaining and educational. Local anglers set up booths to sell, trade, swap and give away many current and antique fishing and boating gear. Free Raffles, 50/50’ are held throughout the day. It seems there is something for everyone.
Last year I found several old rods and reel combos that I used when I was very young. It brought back many memories from my childhood.
So if you want a great time to wander through booths and tables of gear – most are antique, talk to experts and amateurs about their own “fish stories” and pick up that item that will bring back memories, then this is the place.
There will be food and beverages and plenty of parking. Get there early for the best deals.
Until next time, Tightlines
NCsaltaire 