Read more “The Revival of the Original St. Petersburg – Habana Race”
(Ft. Myers Beach to Charlotte Harbor)
My positive report of July 4th – July 11th was predicated on high tide levels with strong currents due to a new moon phase. Unfortunately, the tide predictions were wrong and we experienced lower water levels, weaker currents and less fish activity. Nonetheless, Pilchards are arriving in bigger numbers and that is a good sign for those wanting live bait. They are small (hatchlings), but are growing and should provide good sizes by the end of the month, just in time for the full moon tides. I recommend a ¼ mess net.
Read more “Captain Terry says “Pilchards are arriving in bigger numbers””
New laws have taken effect that no longer prohibit bow riding. Marine officers can no longer pull you over merely if someone is safely riding on your bow, as it does not constitute a danger to any person outside of the vessel.
Another new change allows boats who are stopped for safety equipment checks to receive a new state sticker free of charge when they pass.
Read more “New boating laws on stops, operation take effect”
The VHF radio is still the communication device of choice for a boater. It is the standard and, as it is universally used, it is arguably one of the most important piece of safety gear you can have aboard. But here are some questions many ask as they consider what to use and how to use it:
Today’s hand-held VHF radios are very versatile and convenient—plus they have the distinct advantage of not being dependent of the boat’s electrical system. In some emergencies, that power may not exist.
(Ft. Myers Beach to Charlotte Harbor)
This weekend and the first full week of July should offer anglers great opportunity to catch their fish of a lifetime. In ‘light’ of a new moon phase, the water levels will offer daytime access to most any area. I suggest getting out early before the sweltering heat, as the tides will favor the mornings until about July 6, when higher tides will peak in the afternoon and toward evening hours.
Read more “Captain Terry Fisher’s 4th of July Fishing Report”
(Ft. Myers Beach to Charlotte Harbor)
Father’s Day weekend proved to be fantastic fishing. The moon was full and the tides were high providing good opportunity all week long. I had better results in areas north of the Sanibel power lines. The release of water from Lake O continues to muddy the water up around the mouth of the river and continues to have a negative impact on the fishing. Water north of the power lines is much cleaner and continues to produce Sea Trout, Redfish, Tarpon, Snook and other species. It seems that the further one goes north up the Inter-Coastal, the better the fishing is.
Fishing off of the US-41 bridge has had some interesting fish lately. Redfish and black drum have mostly been caught off of the north end. Using dead/frozen shrimp for bait has worked very well.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville District is advising boaters on the Okeechobee Waterway that they could encounter delays as they navigate through Ortona Lock due to repairs.
I do not know exactly the reason(s) motivating ‘Man’s desire to fish. Is it merely the solace that one experiences? The mystique of what one might ‘catch’, or the fact our bodies are made up of 65% of water and we are naturally drawn to it? My 1st Mate, Vicki and I travel with great anticipation and excitement to different destinations to experience and observe people’s everywhere sitting at ponds, lakes, creeks, riverbanks, coastlines and on vessels to enjoy the most popular activity of all time; fishing.
(Ft. Myers Beach to Charlotte Harbor)
Opportunity for some good fishing should be in order for the weekend and the days following. The weather reports are favorable and tides will be high and with strong current even though we are approaching a mid-moon cycle.