Posts tagged ‘pier fishing’
Getting Back Into It – First Class
Well its been several weeks since I was able to wet a line. The pompano were scattered along the surf but because of the fluctuation in water temps, so was the availability of these tasty little fish.
Sea mullet and puppy drum are also plentiful and being caught during morning and evenings.
To ease my frustration at not getting out on the surf, I decided to enter into the fall season by working the Florida waters.
Our destination is Key West. Not sure what we will find due the two storms brewing in the Atlantic but I plan to try.
Of course, a trip to the keys always has to begin with a stop off a the Wide World Sportsman / Bass Pro in Islamorada.
We woke on Tuesday morning with a small craft advisory.
Heading to tackle shop for bait and advice.
Stay tuned!!
Pesky Summer Visitors
Summer always brings a challenge for surf fishing. It might be the black flies or storms or maybe beachgoers. But in early August it tends to be those pesky sea nettles. Most of the time, they are harmless. But wade or swim near them and bingo – a painful stings.
This past week, the water began to warm into the 70’s and with it, would come the fiesty Florida Pompano. Or so I thought.
With the upwelling causing the water temperatures to fluctuate and rain changing the sanity of the sound waters, the surf was prime for the summer invasion of jellyfish.
I spent two days this past week chasing this elusive and tasty Pompamo. I tried everything. But between the nettle bodies catching on the line and surf being churned up with Tropical Storm Collin, I came up empty.
I will have to wait for another day when the odds are in my favor. Stay tuned.
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 