Posts tagged ‘ocean swimming’
Summer Doldrums
Fishing in July always ends up being slow. The fish are stressed due to the fluctuation of water temperatures. Our highest water temps got into the 80’s and then as magic, they drop to upper 50’s. We are still catching bottom fish from the piers, bridges and surf. As always, the best times to fish is in the early morning and evening.
Also, July brings with it those oppressive temperatures. So let’s talk about taking care of yourself. You must keep hydrated. Drink plenty of plain water. It seems alcohol also increases your thirst. Save those “cold ones” for the dock.
Whenever fishing on the water, I wear loose-fitting nylon shirts and shorts and a wide brim hat. Most sporting goods shops sell UPF/UV protection clothing. I favor Columbia gear. Worth every penny at keeping the sun off you and keeping you cool.
Fishing on the surf or pier, the sun can play tricks on you when the clouds block the sun. UV rays are bouncing everywhere, so a good sun screen and eye protection are imperative.
Heat exposure is a dangerous condition for everyone especially those young and older. Watch for symptoms of heat exhaustion. If left un-attended could lead to a very dangerous condition.
When fishing in July and August, look for shady areas or if you find yourself in the sun, limit your exposure.
Until next time,
Tightlines
Celebrating the 4th in Style
Happy Fourth of July!!. As we celebrate this holiday, we need to take a moment to remember those dedicated men and women throughout our history who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. For without that commitment to the cause of freedom, we would not be able to enjoy this day.
So on this beautiful day from the Outer Banks, I would like to toast those who served to our country both past and present with my traditional July 4th menu from Capt Tony’s.
I salute you!!
TIghtlines
Kick off The Summer with Us
Memorial Day is typically the kick off for the summer season in most regions. Here on the Outer Banks we had kick off many weeks ago. Fishing has been iffy – from great to just mediocre. Water temps have been changing, it seems daily. One day warm in the 70’s then dropping down to the mid 50’s. One main stay has been the sea mullet and blues. Some spot, croaker and flounder have been picked up in the sounds. Blues can be caught on gotchas, spoons and cut bait on a bottom rig. The mullet, spot, and croakers favor blood worms. The flounder seem to like double jugs with twister tails – near structure and pilings.
But we also been having another visitor that has been hanging around. These visitors are rip currents. I believe there have been more rip currents this year than any in recent times.
A rip tide is a strong and narrow channel of water rushing seaward. This tide is created when wind and waves push water up on the shore. At some point the water begins to move sideways and parallel with the beach in search of a weak spot on the bar. The sand bar weakens under the tremendous pressure and breaks free, allowing the excess water rush seaward.
If you happen to be in the water at this point, the current will pull the strongest summer or angler out to sea.
This year we have already had hundreds of rescues. This past Tuesday while enjoying the new Jeannette Pier, I witnessed two summers struggle to remain on shore. Both were caught in a rip current. Luckily for both they had boogie boards. Only after much coaxing, did the pair make it back to shore. Without those boards and the support, we might have had a tragedy.
When fishing the surf, always monitor the wave and tidal action. Stay just off either side of the rip current. This always a great indicator where the fish are but it also tells us where we should exercise caution.
Be safe and enjoy the beginning of a great season.
Until next time, Tightlines.
NCsaltaire 