Posts tagged ‘family fishing’
Watchful Waiting for the Fish
Last picture from the December 2010 Chesapeake Bay fishing trip.
We have been waiting for the Rockfish to arrive in the Outer Banks surf. Over the past several days we heard reports of the “big fish” showing up off the mid Atlantic coast.
Our local boats are catching them at the 1-1/2 to 3 miles off the beach.
No word on anything within casting range. I cruise the beach every day I can for the sign of birds. The heavy gear is ready and like potential new parents, we are watchful waiting. Stay tuned!!
Enjoy Cold Weather Fishing
In a previous post, I briefly described our fishing trip in Hampton Virginia.
The day was extremely cold. Most times when fishing, it’s the angler who has a tougher time than the prey. But with a little preparation the day can be an enjoyable experience regardless of the season.
When fishing in cold weather, remember that you must keep your head, hands and feet warm. Maintaining warmth in these spots will give you the best opportunity for success.
One of the best ways to keep warm is to keep chemical warmers in your tackle box.
One of the best items to help keep you warm is to have several chemical warmers in your tackle box.
I always purchase three large packages (six warming pads in each) each fall. They have a one year shelf life but mine are used way before the spring.
So to make a cold trip enjoyable, don’t forget the three cold spots – heads, hands and feet.
Rockfish in Tidewater
On December 4, the first mate and I ventured to Hampton Virginia for a day on the Chesapeake Bay Rockfishing.
The day was clear, breezy and cold.
We joined many friends from my real job and had a blast. We caught over 50 rockfish that ranged from 20″ to 27″ at and around the 3rd and 4th islands of the CBBT.
For a great inexpensive fishing experience, definitely seek the Ocean Eagle on the Hampton waterfront. You will not be disappointed.
What’s with all this cold water
During the summer months, Outer Banks beach patrons may experience a significant change in water temperatures from one day to next.
This phenomenon is known as upwelling. It is typically caused by circular wind motion due to a front from the north that blows winds parallel along the beach. The steady wind blows the warm summer water out at a diagonal direction which ultimately takes it out to sea. With the warm water now gone, the cold replaces it quickly – thus the sudden decrease in water temperatures from one place on the beach to anther. Tides can also aid in replacing the warm water with the cold water. (Double click on picture for water movement).
On the Outer Banks, bathers may feel cold water for hours or days or sometimes longer. And this cold water exchange may be different from one beach area to others along the coast.
If you find yourself in an upwelling situation, either wait it out or move down the beach until you find a warmer spot. Unfortunately, if the wind continues to blow, cold water is here to stay. You may either suffer with the cold water, stay on the beach or find a nice pool.
By the way, fishing is outstanding in areas with upwelling – so grab a rod.
NCsaltaire 