(Ft. Myers Beach to Charlotte Harbor) Even though the New Year brought with it plenty of rain and gusty winds throughout our region, several ‘die hard’ anglers braved the elements in search of fish. I had the pleasure of fishing with many new clients shortly after the New Year and they were all successful in catching plenty of fish. Most impressive were youthful anglers determined to fish regardless of the conditions. Pictured here is ten (10) year old William Cawdrey of Cincinnati, Ohio proudly displaying just one of many Seatrout he caught over a two (2) day period of fishing the ‘flats’. His brother Timothy, only fourteen (14) and good friend Harrison Rodgers, only thirteen (13), proudly poses with Spanish Mackerel they caught. All three junior anglers showed exceptional abilities to handle whatever species decided to ‘take the bait’. They were all kept busy catching Crevalle Jacks, Ladyfish and lots of Seatrout on both charter days.
Another exceptional junior angler is Matthew Izzo (13), of Downingtown, Pennslyvania. Matthew is shown with one of many big Seatrout he caught in Pine Island sound during a half day charter. His father, Chris Izzo is pictured alongside his son while holding a nice Seatrout he caught. The day made for a great experience for both father and son as they caught lots of big Seatrout and other species. I am looking forward to the opportunity to take all of them out next year in search of their ‘fish of a lifetime’.
Fishing should continue to be productive with the ‘full moon on the horizon’. However, the cool front will make some parts of the day less likely to produce. I suggest going early morning for the better chances of big Seatrout, as warmer parts of the day have recently proven ‘less’ productive. Snook and Redfish are still active but hard to find due to the ‘skinny’ waters. Proven locations will still produce so long as the tide levels provide sufficient depth for the fish to get close to and under the mangroves; otherwise the fish will be elsewhere. Sheepshead and Mangrove Snappers are active most any part of the day, but my pleasure is early morning. Small bait hooks, ‘tipped’ with a nice piece of shrimp should get one a meal.
This is Captain Terry Fisher offering these tips for better days on the water. Check out my website at www.fishfacecharters.com for more fishing reports, articles and charter information. Email me at [email protected] or call me at 239-357-6829 with any questions or to book a charter.
The Cape Coral Cruise Club, founded in 1963, is unique among S.W. Florida boat clubs in that it owns a portion of a private island on the Caloosahatchee River east of the Franklin Lock near Alva. Over the years a covered pavilion has been built where the members enjoy monthly elaborate picnics, bocce, horseshoes and other relaxing activities.
January, South Seas cruise: A fleet of sixteen vessels belonging to CCCC members cruised to South Seas Resort on Captiva Island for a unique and entertaining adventure January 16 – 18. Under the cruise leadership of Past Commodore Phil Quick and wife Lyn, our adventure took a realistic turn with members going on a treasure hunt at the resort to find a wonderful hidden prize. Over the course of three days clues were given to attending members to assist in locating the prize. Joanne Zimmer was successful on Friday.
February, 2013 Prime Rib picnic: This was a milestone for CCCC as more than 70 members, guests and prospective members attended. The prime rib dinner, prepared by Gary and Kathy Taake and their able assistants was especially delicious as Gary and Kathy brought the selected meat from their Nebraska cattle operation. Topping off the outstanding meal was the individually packed citrus sorbet packets that both cooled and cleansed the palette. No one departs hungry from a monthly CCCC Island picnic.
February, Pink Shell Cruise: Twenty boats from the CCCC cruised to Ft Myers Beach on February 19th to participate in the opening and festive ribbon cutting of a wonderful new marina – the Pink Shell Marina. This Marina features great amenities, including floating docks, cable TV, dockside pump-out, and access to the Pink Shell Resort’s 3 heated pools, white sand beach, spa and food & beverage facilities. In addition, the marina offers the closest access to the Gulf of Mexico of any Ft. Myers Beach marina. Three days of fun, relaxation, and use of the Pink Shell amenities made for an outstanding cruise.
March Little Loop extended cruise: Three “slow” boats, and eight “fast” boats departed the CCCC owned Island on the Caloosahatchee River east of the Franklin Lock near Alva on separate days in mid- March due to weather conditions for crossing Lake “O”, eventually to meet on the east coast at Sailfish Marina in Palm Beach. Off and on weather was a determining factor for arrivals and departures from Bahia Mar Yachting Center in Ft. Lauderdale, Miamarina in Miami, Hawks Cay Marina & Resort on Duck Key, and Key West. Weather concerns are predominant when it comes to member boating safety. Overall with good friends, good meals, some outstanding fishing and swimming with dolphins, the group had a fine time cruising the Little Loop.
April, 2013 a busy CCCC month: Events following the Club Island picnic on the first Saturday of the month included:
50th Anniversary celebration cruise: The CCCC celebrated its 50th anniversary with a gala dinner cruise and dance aboard the beautiful 100 foot Sanibel Princess on Wednesday, April 10th. Founded in 1963 by James Holmes and a small group of Cape Coral boaters, the club’s objectives are to encourage the sport of boating, promote good seamanship and fellowship in cruising the inland and coastal waters of Florida, and provide a clubhouse for the recreation and use of members and their guests.
Sixty members and guests, dressed for the occasion, boarded the Sanibel Princess at 6:00 pm for a four hour cruise, starting with a happy hour complete with full bar, and appetizers of vegetables, dip and cheese platter with fresh fruit. Then dinner was announced which consisted of a sumptuous buffet of several salads, winter medley mix of vegetables, red russet potatoes, beef tenderloin, chicken breast with wild rice, pan seared salmon with glaze, crab meat with pasta casserole, and delicious assorted desserts.
Each couple was given a beautiful commemorative acrylic plaque to honor the occasion. The Captains and crew members of the Sanibel Princess went out of their way to show club members a great time, and many who had never been aboard the boat agreed that the food, ambience and service exceeded their expectations.
April, Snook Bight Marina cruise: CCCC members had a great time at Snook Bight Marina for the April, 2013 monthly cruise. Members began arriving just before 11:00 AM on Tuesday, April 16th, and despite the breezy conditions and fast tidal current from the SE, all boaters docked without incident. As the sun settled into the west, John Queen surprised everyone by transforming into ‘Alex Treebark’ and delivering a hilarious rendition of ‘CCCC Jeopardy’. Using a laptop and power point, John separated the crowd into three teams and grilled club members on subjects such as Club History, Hidden Island, Boating Safety Regulations. Two days followed enjoying the sights and sounds of Times Square, Santini Plaza, good meals and friendship, and the sands of Ft. Myers Beach, before members started their engines and headed for home on the 19th.
May, Up the GICW to Palm Island: On May 14, 2013 several members of the CCCC cruised northward on the Gulf ICW to Palm Island, a favorite annual Club destination. The trip up Pine Island Sound was a bit choppy, as was crossing Boca Grande Pass, but the five boats all arrived and docked without incident using the assigned assistance of Palm Harbor Marina staff. With near perfect weather and outstanding facilities, along with the hospitality planning of Captain Lynch, the arrival and securing of members boats was outstanding. The following two days were filled with trips to the beach, lots of pool time along with the traditional card games. Included on any CCCC cruise are outstanding appetizers, docktails, snacks and uniquely grilled meals. The morning of May 17 saw Club mariners slipping lines and departing for the southbound GICW cruise back home. The inter-coastal waterway was near calm and everyone returned without incident. June, Final spring cruise to Burnt Store Marina: The final CCCC cruise before the Club’s annual summer break was to Burnt Store Marina hosted by Detlef and Denise Rohleder, and co-hosted by Phil and Pat Kryger. Four members cruised north on the GICW and up a very smooth Charlotte Harbor. After checking in and tied up in the assigned slips, boaters were on their own to do whatever, until docktails at 4:30. Snacks were provided by the host at the Marina pavilion, including yummy crab dip and crackers provided by Bobbie McEwen. Over the next two days several members arrived by land yacht to participate in the bocce games, trivia contests, excellent meals, and other traditional CCCC cruise activities.
August, Special Island event: Due to the heat and humidity of mid-summer in S.W. Florida the CCCC normally holds no Club activities. 2013 was different as a recent new member decided to provide a different Island treat, a Pirate theme party! On August 17, pirates attacked Hidden Island! In preparation the Captain and his crew arrived on the island Thursday to ensure that all was clean and ready for those members who elected to attempt the Saturday pirate invasion. CCCC members and appropriately attired guests crossed the GICW by Club pontoon boat shortly after 9:00 am on Saturday. Braving snakes, a raven and numerous hazards along the way, they arrived only to be met by defense cannon fire from Vice Commodore Phil Kryger’s unique PVC cannon. Len Grassini, pontoon boat pilot and the intrepid Island grounds’ keeper, returned fire with 3 quick shots with his trusty shotgun and the battle was underway!
Once the battles were ended the members were confronted with three puzzles to complete, and clues to decipher before scouring the island for Treasure hidden earlier by the Captain and crew. Our intrepid Commodore, Mike Stewart and matie, Brenda, were swift, diligent with clues, persistent, and courageous. They braved hazardous conditions, analyzed the clues, and in swift order returned to the pavilion with the treasure chest in tow! Upon opening it they discovered 4 wonderful casks of Grog, fabulous plastic jewels and a dinner for two at the fantastic Moorings restaurant in Cape Coral! Oh, what Bounty (booty)!
Shortly after the prizes were awarded, all relaxed and enjoyed steaks, marinated in a mysterious sauce were grilled and matched with many other wonderful offerings on the serving table. Desserts abounded and all of the crew was well fed. Tired, hot, but well fed, the invading pirates departed the island to return to their ordinary lives declaring as they went that “a pirate’s life is way too short!”
September, The Naples Boat Club: The CCCC resumed its schedule of monthly cruises to both near and distant locations, with the season kickoff cruise to the Naples Boat Club. Unlike the 2012 cruise to Naples, waves were 1 to 2 feet on the Gulf of Mexico southbound on Tuesday the 17th making for a very comfortable ride for all members. One of the popular features of this cruise is a catered dinner after arrival on the first night. This means no one has to cook a dish after cruising two to five hours on a hot day, so at 6:00 PM, Rib City catered a delicious meal of sliced BBQ pork sandwiches, baked beans, potato salad and slaw, with an assortment of fresh baked cookies for dessert.
At the Wednesday morning continental breakfast cruise leaders announced a group activity in the pool at 11:00 am requiring good hand and eye coordination, but no further details were divulged.
At the appointed hour, all members in swimwear got in the pool, and waited patiently while hundreds of wine corks were dumped into the pool. It was explained that upon a signal, everyone was to grab as many corks as they could, and store them in any way they could. It was a hilarious scene as corks were stuffed into swim trunks, pockets, swim tops and bottoms, and both hands. When all the corks were gone from the pool, contestant’s collected corks were counted, with prizes to be awarded at Happy Hour later in the afternoon. First prize went to Phil Quick, who somehow collected 136 corks (an amazing feat), second prize was won by Phil Kryger, and third prize was won by Edie Limbright. A special booby prize was awarded to member Bobbie McEwen, who, despite using a portable oxygen tank, got in the pool and collected 29 corks. Although this was the smallest number of corks collected, she amazed everyone with her participation and effort.
Wednesday and Thursday were filled with Naples tours by trolley and water taxi, as well as another “Solo red bowl sailboat” build and race contest at the pool. Once again members enjoyed sinkings, devious antics, and laughs as contestants attempted to win.
Of course dinners out and member arrivals by land yacht rounded out the very successful and fun filled Naples cruise. Friday morning saw members slipping lines and heading back north with fond memories of CCCC cruising.
October, CCCC returns to Fisherman’s Village: Six club member boats cruised to Fishermen’s Village Tuesday the 15th of October. The water on Charlotte Harbor was smooth and that alone made the journey to Punta Gorda much better than last year when wind created very rough conditions. Upon arriving at the docks we had timely assistance from the marina staff. Dock masters Randy and Jim enhanced our stay by allowing us use of the boaters lounge for our happy hours and dinner time.
Over the next two days members used provided bicycles to ride into Punta Gorda, relaxed with card games, and enjoyed the activities on the pier. Friday morning attendees cruised back down Charlotte Harbor, turned south on the GICW for the return trip to Cape Coral and nearby locations. Another successful pleasure and fun filled CCCC cruise goes into the log books.
November, Uncle Henry’s Marina: Cruise leaders Mark and Kate Lewis planned the CCCC November trip to Uncle Henry’s Marina on Boca Grande. This is a location the Club had not been to in several years. Getting into Uncle Henry’s is a zigzag path through the channel off the GICW north of Boca Grande pass, but it is well marked and dock master Paul Robbins keeps a good eye on your progress so you don’t stray into trouble. The marina has a long single concrete dock with many good, wide slips. Twelve CCCC member boats cruised the GICW on November 19th to participate in the cruise. Bob and Bonnie Martin, on their 33’ Ranger tug Daisy Mae, arrived from Sarasota to join the group. They were on the final southbound leg of a several month Great Loop journey.
Kate prearranged for seven rental golf carts so members could explore Boca Grande. On Boca Grande locals and tourists use golf carts on special wide paved trails to move about the island. Over the next two days a few went fishing, some played cards while others left on carts to explore the Island, some going all the way down to Boca Grande Pass. Lunch for some was at the Loose Caboose and shopping is always a treat in Boca Grande.
On both Wednesday and Thursday several members arrived by land yacht to join the cruisers in the many fun activities to be had on Boca Grande. Friday, the trip home was pleasant although due to breezy conditions, seas were just a little rough. It was another great trip for the Cape Coral Cruise Club. Thanks to one of our newest member couples, Kate and Mark Lewis, for their attention to detail making this a very memorable event.
December, Change of Watch: Each December the CCCC has its only “formal” event where the current Club officers are recognized for their Club work and new officers are placed in office. Held at the Palmetto Pine Country Club this year, after dinner Past Commodore Len Grassini called Commodore Mike Stewart to give his outgoing comments followed by the swearing in of 2014 Commodore Phil Kryger and presentation of his flag. Commodore Kryger thanked Past Commodore Stewart for his achievements during 2013 and presented him the Past Commodore burgee flag.
Commodore Kryger asked for his new bridge to come forward: Vice Commodore Lee Jetton and Rear Commodore John Queen. They were presented with flags and sworn in. Then Commodore Kryger asked the rest of the board to come forward to be sworn in, followed by a short talk on his goals for the CCCC in 2014. Music and dancing rounded out the evening.
The Cape Coral Cruise Club is open to new members who own a boat with overnight accommodations. For membership information please contact Larry Mitchell at 239-560-2823. View a short picture video of Club activities and review additional Club information on its website, www.c-c-c-c.org.
A friend of mine, Henry Lund of Dublin, Ireland, bought a new Beneteau Oceanis 48 and took delivery in Canet, France, which is just north of the Spanish border on the Gulf of Lion, the windiest part of the Mediterranean. Henry bought the boat from the Beneteau dealer in Turkey and sailed it to Marmaris, Turkey where he keeps the boat. He already had a shake down and sea trials the week before with a few friends and was able to get the new boat bugs out before the 1,536 nm trip to Turkey.
I elected to sail the 781 nm leg to Catania, Sicily because of time restraints and also the fact that I had not sailed that area previously. Henry, the skipper, Joe, John and I were the crew for this leg and the chemistry between us all was really great. When I boarded the boat, “Anna Bella”, my first impression was how clean her lines are and the very impressive cockpit layout. The interior is very spacious, with plenty of cabin space and spacious toilets/showers. Since this yacht is equipped with two wheels, I asked Henry if we would flip coins to see which wheel to use. After this trip, I came to love the twin wheels and being able to sit on the low side and see the tell tales on the jib, switching to the high side wheel to look for other boats or obstructions or docking in close quarters. Since all lines are run to the cockpit, it did not take me long to see where everything was located. During the trip, I joked that we needed to use a megaphone to talk to the crew sitting on the other side of the cockpit. We could really have a great party in the cockpit which, compared to other boats her size, is enormous and very well laid out. The skipper gave us a briefing on the location of ALL the safety gear and had us fit the offshore inflatable life vests. We hooked up the safety tethers to the vests and made sure they fit snugly and put them in our cabins for later use.
Henry plotted the course as follows: 290 nm to Bonifacio, Corsica, 162 nm to Nettuno, 77nm to Ischia, 56 nm to Agropoli, 75 nm to Tropea and 69 nm to Riposto, Sicily, all in Italy. We cast off at 0815 on Sept. 4th and we had to motor sail because of the lack of wind. Joe did a great job keeping our stomachs happy and nobody had problems with the pint size beer cans or the great wine on board (we take these trips seriously). The next morning the seas started to build and we could see thunderstorms all around us. It reminded me of the typical afternoon thunderstorms on Tampa Bay. Around 1600, we hit a major thunderstorm and we had to reach off to sail the quickest course through it. I was on the wheel and the boat drove through the storm beautifully and at one point I had it sailing over 11 knots. The next morning we sailed into Bonifacio, which was a great experience. The harbor is surrounded by high limestone cliffs and you cannot see the entrance until you are on top of it. It would be easy to sail past it from the west since you don’t see the town on top of the cliffs until you are past the entrance on the east side of the cliffs. We spent 2 days and nights in this medieval town, which has a fantastic marina and you just walk from the boat to the shops and restaurants just yards away. They also had a great tango dance and band for the public right on the harbor.
The one thing I like about most of the towns on the Mediterranean coast is that the harbors are the central focus of the towns. The restaurants, taverns and shops are along the waterfront and there is always a constant parade of the local people and tourists walking along the waterfront viewing the yachts in the harbors. I wish we had more of that in Florida!
On Sept. 8th we left for another overnight trip to Nettuno next to Anzio, where the Allied landing was in 1944. We stayed in Nettuno for two days, since the weather was forecasting gale force winds. This gave Joe and I an opportunity to take the train to Rome for a day and see the Coliseum and the Forum.
The rest of the trip was a short day trip to the marina in Riposto, Sicily. We sailed across the Bay of Naples and saw Mount Vesuvius that whole day. Whenever I saw landmarks, I would look up the history and found out that Mount Vesuvius is the most dangerous volcano in the world because of the population of 3,000,000 people living nearby. We sailed to Cetrada and had to put up with swells that had not subsided from the previous day’s gale force winds. We picked a restaurant right next to the harbor and we were the only customers there. The owner had to call the cook, who came over on his bike.
The next day, on our way to Tropea, the sea had moderated and we had a nice sail, passing the active volcano of Stromboli, which would be beautiful to see at night with its glow. Tropea is again a town high on the cliffs to avoid the pirates and raiders of the old days and to give exercise to the tourist of today. From there we sailed through the Straights of Messina, separating Sicily from mainland Italy. You have to sail along the shore and the commercial traffic stays in the center. Because we went through on a Sunday, the traffic was light. As we approached our destination, we could see Mount Etna and the volcanic ash still spilling out the top. We sailed past Taormina where there were some beautiful mega yachts moored and I went back later with a car to visit a Greek theater and a small but very impressive museum that I came across, with artifacts that went back to 380 BC, when there was a Greek settlement. We had our last meal before the crew went their separate ways and Captain Henry got ready for the new crew to take Anna Bella to the final destination 755 nm away.
I stayed in Catania for two days and saw 12 churches; a concert made up of young musicians from the university, walked miles all over the town and visited a boat yard where I met with the owner. We exchanged the same issues that we all seem to have as small business owners. Most of the boats in Italy are power and they love big engines. The price of diesel fuel is $8.55 per gallon, so you really have to love boating. My sailboat has two 100 gallon tanks, so it would cost $1,710 to fill my tanks over there. I am glad I am back in the USA where I can afford to go boating. It was a great trip with a fun crew and captain plus I had the opportunity to sail in an area I had never seen plus absorb history going back to 400BC. Not bad!
Cruise leaders Mark and Kate Lewis planned the Cape Coral Cruise Club (CCCC) November trip to Uncle Henry’s Marina on Boca Grande. This is a location the Club had not been to in several years. Getting into Uncle Henry’s is a zigzag path through the channel off the GICW north of Boca Grande pass, but it is well marked and dock master Paul Robbins keeps a good eye on your progress so you don’t stray into trouble. The marina has a long single concrete dock with many good, wide slips. For its age the central dock is in very good condition.
Twelve CCCC member boats headed up the GICW on November 19th including: Panacea, Knot Again, Four Bugles, Y Knot, Markate, Whatever, Robyn M, Knotatoy, West Leigh, Happy Ours, KDJ, and Sharon Ann. The weather was great, winds light, and the water was smooth. After docking, hooking up electric, checking in, and doing some cleaning and organizing, we discovered that members Bob and Bonnie Martin, on their 33’ Ranger tug Daisy Mae, had come in from Sarasota to join the group. They were on the final southbound leg of a several month Great Loop journey.
It was almost docktail time and Bruce & Sue Longman and Rusty & Marlene Glover arrived by land yacht. Tradition is that the blowing of a conch shell starts happy hour. Mac was not present to perform the ritual, so, with his approval by phone, docktails began without him. A wide variety of pre-potluck snacks was greatly enjoyed. At 6:00pm more dishes began to appear for the pot luck dinner at the marina provided picnic shelter, consisting of a variety of salads, chicken legs, a sandwich ring, tortellini with meat balls, and a special goulash. Mark grilled chicken pieces marinated in a delicious, secret Jamaican jerk recipe. The serving table was packed including desserts of key lime pie and cream puffs.
Wednesday’s breakfast, also at the marina picnic shelter, consisted of an egg casserole created by Kate Lewis, along with croissants, muffins and fruit salad.
Kate prearranged for seven rental golf carts so members could explore Boca Grande which were delivered shortly after breakfast. They all looked like new WHITE carts (remember the color) and would seat four adults. In Boca Grande locals and tourists use golf carts on special wide paved trails to move about the island. After breakfast a few went fishing, some played cards while others left on carts to explore the Island, some going all the way down to Boca Grande Pass. Lunch for some was at the Loose Caboose and shopping is always a treat in Boca Grande.
Later in the afternoon we were joined by Hal & Dee Moss, Sharon & Wes Rubenich, Susan Herzog & Chuck Pollack, Dianne Myers, Ken & Sonja Wright, Ted & Beverly Hutson for docktails and the ride, for some, via golf cart to PJ’S Grille for dinner. Everyone had had great dinners along with a favorite beverage. Then it was back to our boats in the dark, many of us on our golf carts. When we arrived back at Uncle Henry’s, someone, I won’t mention any names, had a RED cart…not the rented white one. There was a quick run back to PJ’S Grille for a hasty exchange before the owner discovered the mistake. Hal Moss was called on to meet them there, because with headlights on plus a full day of use makes short life for a golf cart battery. All went OK and they returned safe and sound.
Thursday breakfast was eggs, fruit salad and croissants. The rest of day was open for each couple to fish, explore, play cards or just relax. Many headed in the golf carts to the south end of the Island for lunch at South Beach and a visit to the Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum in Gasparilla Island State Park.
Docktails began around 4:30 with snacks and talk among members about the many interesting things to do in this old Florida atmosphere part of Southwest Florida. Dinner was on your own. Some went to the Tiki Bar restaurant and others remained on their boats.
Friday, the trip home was pleasant although due to breezy conditions, seas were just a little rough. It was another great trip for the Cape Coral Cruise Club. Thanks to one of our newest member couples, Kate and Mark Lewis, for their attention to detail making this a very memorable event.
The Cape Coral Cruise Club is open to new members who own a boat with overnight accommodations. For membership information please contact Larry Mitchell at 239-560-2823. View a short picture video of Club activities and review additional Club information on its website, www.c-c-c-c.org.
I’ve heard the term before (riding the storm), but I never really experienced it until July of this year. David and I were going to Marco Island to watch the fireworks and fish. It was the usual hot Florida summer day and the storm cells that week formed anywhere, at any time.
It was impossible to anchor long enough to get a hook in the water before a thunder cloud threatened our safety. We were off of Coon Key, searching for Triple tail near a large marker. A storm cell formed, David announced we got 5 minutes. By the time we lifted anchor, the waves and wind was sending Anhinga 8.4 knots towards the river. She liked that.
If anyone has been in the Marco River, one would know right away it is a great safe haven for storms. Outside in the Gulf a storm could be raging, but inside the river, a boat would experience only ripple of waves.
The sky was kind enough to halt it’s downpour until after the fireworks were over. We decided to leave the next day. David took stock of the weather and saw that there were two storms in the gulf, but a wide margin of clear skies were between them. The entrance to the river was a bit deceiving. It’s a blind exit into the gulf. We casually motored out, watching others in their yachts motor inward. David put up a reefed main, knowing the winds would be high. Once out of the river’s mouth we found ourselves not yet in a full gale storm, but as we looked back we could see a high energy large thunderhead with soft rolling clouds around the top of it like a halo. We were in the warm strong wind the storm pushed ahead of itself. It was about 40 knots.
The main slammed against its starboard stay, as the wind was directly behind us. David could not get the main down and this was vital for our safety. He couldn’t leave the helm, so he told me I had to go and pull the main down. I wanted to tell him he was crazy, it was not safe and I didn’t know I could do it, but when I looked at David’s face, I knew it was a job I had to do. I only had my bibs on and a t shirt. I held the hand rails tightly along the port side, dragged the main sail down; it was hard. I barely got a hold of the halyard line to pull it around the cleat as my butt smashed down on the cabin with my legs wrapped around the mast.
What I did not know at the time, David’s plan was to throw some of the jib out, to steady the boat. The jib tore loose from its roll and slammed all the way out. I was flat on my back at that point as Anhinga tipped about 40 degrees and her side railings was slicing through the water. I grabbed onto the hand rail and nothing could stop my mouth from letting out a girly scream. Flat on my back and tipped towards starboard, I could not even sit up as the wind pressed down on me.
Then I heard David from behind me yell, “Don’t worry… we are still under control!” I was safely secured to the mast by my legs and my hand on the rail. I was in an exhilarating position; I thought to myself, I’m glad someone decided to tell me because it really doesn’t look like we are in control!
Yet, I trust my salty dog with my life; he is experienced and knows what to do in an emergency. My second thought was, “I’m going to stay right here until he fixes this.” Just then, I heard the grinding sound of the winch as David slowly pulled the jib in until we had about 2 feet of triangle sticking out.
Anhinga righted herself up properly and we had a fast sail home.
I learned a few things:
To gain proper experience, one must allow oneself to reach out of the comfort zone.
Trust the one with the most experience behind the helm
God is still in control of the wind and the waves.
Experience in the storm will help you through the next one.
Thursday – It was a perfect anchorage behind Williams Island. I slept like a baby, as I usually do on the boat, like in a rocking cradle. We were up and at them early because we wanted to make it back to Flamingo Cay and have a proper lunch with Charlie and Cindy. The wind was howling from the southeast so it was a long slog against the wind and waves. Our normal hull speed is 11 knots at 1200 rpm, but the wind slowed us down to 7 knots.
We were close to our anchorage and next thing we know Charlie is hanging off of our stern in his helicopter, maybe all of 20’ off the water.
Our chopper pilot and Flamingo Cay host, Charlie Bethel.
We eventually reached our anchoring location where Dave volunteered to stay on the boat and fix things (windlass, broken toilet seat), keeping an eye on the anchor. No need having the line part and the boat drift off to Cuba, realizing some refugees dream. We piled into the dinghy and headed to the wheel channel leading to the Club. It was rough but we stayed dry and got into the channel, in spite of the steering going bad on the dinghy. Cindy and Charlie met us at the dock and we were immediately plied with Stella Artois on tap. Charlie didn’t indulge, after all he was piloting the chopper. We loaded into his cart and headed to the airstrip. He had a 10 passenger Turbine Otter stored under a fabric hangar and the Eurocopter parked out in the open. Charlie set us up in the chopper, The Squirrel as co-pilot, me and Em in the back, and we were off for an aerial tour of Flamingo Cay.
The Bethel family has owned the property since 1926 and it is about 32 square miles (over 20,000 acres!). It was originally set up as a hunting camp, with duck hunting the predominant sport and bonefishing the water sport. Charlie continues to operate it as a premier bonefishing and hunting destination. We cruised over what seemed to me to be desolate lands. Open shallow waters with deep tidal creeks, turtles, bonefish, and lots of open mangroves, including a flock of flamingo’s spotted in the distance. We were really treated with the helicopter tour and being able to see so much of the area in such a short period of time.
An turbine helicopter amusement ride in the middle of Andros! Who’d a thunk.
Bonefish flats and deep access channel.
We ended back at the camp for a ground tour of the accommodations. Top shelf is the only way I can describe the “camp”, which is Charlie’s preferred connotation for the property. Luxury resort seemed a more appropo term. He had used a South African hard wood for all of his furniture, trim, and flooring. The rooms were beautiful. He took us through some of his family history, particularly the rum running days of the Bahamas supplying the United States during prohibition.
We retired to the open air dining room on one of the docks and gorged ourselves on blue crab salad, stone crabs, and white wine. Charlie and Cindy dined with us and it was a most wonderful event. Both are really charming hosts and I got the sense that they were happy to have the company of friends, not having to cater to the high end guests that show up to let their hair down.
Cindy giving instruction to The Squirrel
Sitting down for crab lunch.
The Flamingo Cay Logo
Roger Waters prize bonefish
Mila and Lou, awaiting the toss of the stick
We finally left the camp around 4:30, headed out the long channel to the boat. Once there we immediately pulled anchor and headed for our overnight berth in Loggerhead Creek. As the sun set, The Squirrel joined me on the back deck for a toast to Dwight. They all started dinners (hamburgers and salad) as I quietly placed some of his ashes in the creek. It was a beautiful sunset and I am quite sure my dad would be pleased with the beauty and remoteness of the location.
A martini toast to Dwight and a beautiful sunset in his name.
Red fish yes these tasty battlers are eating, cut bait seems to be the key. Wouldn’t you know it, spend all that time finding live bait only to have to cut it in pieces to get the fish to bite? Well that’s life in Charlotte Harbor right now. Your other bet – shrimp. Yes shrimp are are working well. Live or dead, with the better edge to dead. Let them get a little stinky. Red fish with this dirty water are hunting by smell.
For you Tarpon chasers, look in the inter-coastal from Sanilbel to Gasprilla Tarpon are working the inter-coastal water way, the beaches are almost as good this time of year there is so little boat traffic. You can see them roll as they go up & down the inter-coastal. Along the beaches it is a waiting game, hunting is not as effective as just sitting and waiting. If you are like me, that is almost impossible to do. So I am running the inter-coastal. Although there is one trick which does work and satisfies my need for keeping moving. Trolling. Yes people forget you can troll for Tarpon. 3/4 once Rat-L-Traps, or a 16axsich bomber. I would have one of each out. Just remember flatten the barbs. Not for the fish even though it is better for the Tarpon. It is way better if you are not attached to a 150 pound fish buy the barbs of your lure. 3 MPH is an average speed to troll, a little slower or faster, If you are going with or against the tide.
Have fun and be safe.
Fishin’ Frank
7-13-13 Fishin’ with Frank
Snook are here in the upper Harbor, and with Season coming up, there is a lot of people testing the waters.
Lick um lures new “tongue” is working great, as well as the old favorites like the 15 bombers. Getting lots of people asking for Chartreuse Mirror lures, strange it is the older styles like the 7M or 5M. I think anglers are figuring out why these lures have been around for so long, they are old but they work.
The canals are thick with big Snook, the docks within 500 feet of the Harbor all have snook on them. This is going to be quite a season. Just remember If you have one don’t take another until you have eaten the first one. The idea is fresh, not frozen and No waste also means no freezer burnt fish. Take a meal not a freezer full.
Thanks,
Fishin’ Frank
7-8-13 Fishin’ with Frank
HOSTAGE situation attention Red fish, are being held hostage by vicious
packs of Mangrove Snapper’s which are stealing bait before the Reds can get
any. All through the east side of the harbor, this drama is taking place.
Poor under nourished Red fish barley getting by, in this down turned economy
now having to deal with schools & schools of Snappers, shutting them out
from the bait. Where are the hero’s who will stand tall for the Red fish and
smite these snappers, in the name of decency help.
(Ft. Myers Beach to Charlotte Harbor) Tarpon are still around but not in the numbers of a couple of weeks ago. A few are still in Boca Grande Pass and the best opportunity to catch them is on the outgoing tide. There are some small schools of them just off of the beaches of N. Captiva, Cayo Costa as well as in Pine Island Sound. Pictured here is a large Tarpon ‘in-fight’, caught by a client on light tackle (10lb braided line with a 30lb Flurocarbon leader under a cork, using a live Pinfish).
Larger Redfish are becoming more plentiful (or easier to locate) in the waters of Punta Rassa, Matlacha Pass as well as isolated areas of the back country. Back country anglers should find better success setting up on an incoming tide, before the water has a chance to infiltrate the Mangrove roots allowing the fish to move into isolated ponds and the ‘back holes’ of water preventing effective presentations. The same goes for the Snook. These big, ferocious fighting fish will take cover on the high summer tides, making it virtually impossible to get a presentation in close enough to draw a strike. Likewise, wait until the tide turns and hope to get them on their way out, but the heat can be brutal.
Fishing should be fairly good the remainder of the week considering the high tides for good water movement providing better oxygen while just off of a new moon. Grouper season is open and they are active so long as the weather and winds allow for a day ‘off-shore’. Sharks are everywhere for those hoping to hook up and adolescent or a big one with appropriate gear. The biggest challenge to catching fish this week and the rest of the summer, will be to find the bait. The fish we ‘hunt’, follows the ‘bait’: ‘NO BAIT; NO FISH! It is that simple. If one can find where the bait is surviving the heat, coupled with all of the fresh rain water; THAT’S A WINNER’!
Additional information regarding, articles and charters may be found on my website; www.fishfacecharters.com or email me at [email protected]. I am easily reached at phone number 239-357-6829 for any questions.
Well it’s that time again. Summer is here, the pace is a bit slower for boat sales and the weather and waterside sites are also less busy. That is the perfect excuse to get on the water and do some restaurant hopping. One of our favorite destinations is Fort Myers Beach. It’s an easy cruise and there is plenty to do when you get there.
We enjoy stopping at Nervous Nellie’s which is the first restaurant before the FT Myers Beach bridge. The dockage is free and the food and drinks are always great and well priced. It is also any easy walk to the main part of the beach called Time Square. Plenty of shops to look through and the newly replenished beach is really nice now.
Hop back in your boat, go under the bridge and to your immediate left is Bonita Bill’s which is one of the locals favorite watering holes. Good food and a laid back attitude. Just around the corner to the left is Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grille. They have also free dockage and an extensive menu. They have entertainment on the weekends and occasionally book signings by the author of the Doc Ford book series, Randy Wayne White.
A little east you can dock at Salty Sam’s Marina and you have a choice of the Big Game Club which is an open sports style or Parrot Key restaurant which is more resort style. Both are good, so you can’t make a mistake.
A mile or so farther east and south is Snook Bight Marina which is sporting new floating docks and the very nice Bayside Bistro restaurant which has an upscale menu and one of the best views of the bayside that you can find.
So, even if it is summer, you can find plenty of places close by to have a lot of fun with boat. On the way home, pull out in front of Sanibel Island beach, drop the hook and hop in the water for a cool down and a cold one.
Next time we’ll talk about other boating spots close to home.
See you on the water!
Pat
Paradigm Yacht Sales & Brokerage
http://www.yachtworld.com/paradigm/
There are few places to view Fourth of July fireworks displays that can rival the view by boat. This is a great time to get on the water with friends and family. Raft up with your boating buddies, or stake out your own quiet little cove.
There are things that should be kept in mind before venturing out for an evening on the water. Rusty Gardner, founder of Florida By Water, reminds us that even although this can be a great boating experience, safety must always come first. He offers up a few suggestions:
First, make sure that all of your navigation lights are in working order. It is imperative that other boaters are able to see you in the dark.
Second, it is very helpful to have a chart plotter or other navigation device on board when navigating at night. Slow speeds are always better in these conditions and a extra lookout could be invaluable.
Third, make sure you have all of the required safety equipment on board and always wear your life jacket!
And finally, never drink and boat. As the captain you are responsible for the safety of everyone on your vessel. With this many boats on the water, the 4th of July is not a time to take risks.
Anna Maria Island
26th Annual “Sandbar Fireworks Spectacular” FIREWORKS that will light up the night sky on the north end of Anna Maria Island.
Cape Coral
Red, White and Boom. The Chamber of Commerce is proud to present the City of Cape Coral’s 4th of July party, RE/MAX Realty Team’s Red White & Boom. For over 10 year the best of the Cape Coral business community comes together every July 4th celebrate America with Southwest Florida’s most spectacular fireworks show and party.
Held at the foot of the Cape Coral Bridge on Cape Coral Parkway the RE/MAX Realty Team’s Red White & Boom is a day filled with patriotic fun. Throughout the years the Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral’s Red White & Boom has won the reputation as the best place in Southwest Florida to honor America on the 4th. By land or sea the experience is remarkable as over 20,000 citizens enjoy coming together in the Spirit of America.
More details: The Cape Coral Bridge and Cape Coral Pkwy. shut down between the bridge and Del Prado Blvd. beginning at 4 p.m . There will be live music, kids carnival, & vendors selling food & beer. *Fireworks will begin at Dusk. for more information contact Bob Knickman 239-549-6900 ext. 109 website
Englewood
“Light Up Lemon Bay” Englewood’s annual patriotic fireworks display receives no government funding — the entire program cost is supported through your generosity. website
Fort Myers
Freedom Fest Block Party 2pm ’til Midnight – Fireworks start at 9:30pm, Contact: 1-855-732-3836 Huge fireworks display over the Caloosahatchee River. Food, Live music & kids activities. website
Longboat Key
Boom Boom on the Bay: July 2nd Fourth Annual “Boom Boom on the Bay” FIREWORKS that will light up the night sky on Longboat Key over Sarasota Bay.( For Boaters- it is Channel Marker 39). Come by boat to Dock & Dine or by car. Valet Parking & delicious specials. Seating is limited so call now to get your spot for dinner and a great show! Located at: 760 Broadway Longboat Key, FL.
Punta Gorda
Fishermen’s Village Annual July 4th Celebration: Independence Day festivities begin at 11 a.m. with live entertainment, children’s activities and a fireworks display over Charlotte Harbor. website
Smuggler’s 4th of July Festival: Join the festivities on July 4th at Laishley Park from noon – 10 pm. Just a $2 donation at the gate (or for $6 we throw in a 4th of July Blow-out t-shirt). Please don’t bring a cooler (they have lots of great food and drink) but do bring your lawn chair, sun screen and your patriotic spirit. website
Sarasota
Fireworks Spectacular over Sarasota Bay. Part of the Suncoast Offshore Festival, viewing is free from anywhere downtown including Bayfront Park and Island Park. The Sarasota Fourth of July fireworks show starts at dusk or around 9:00 p.m. website
Siesta Key
Sarasota Fourth of July Events on Siesta Key: 22nd Annual 4th of July Fireworks Display and Party. Fireworks over Siesta Key are blasted off just north of the volleyball courts, so viewing is good from anywhere south and along Crescent Beach (south of Siesta Public Beach), out on the Gulf, or from the Intracoastal waterway. Starts about 9:15 p.m website
St Pete Beach
Fireworks will be shot off a barge in the Gulf of Mexico directly west of the beach. They can be seen from any area along the coastline or by boat. July 4th beginning at 8pm
St Petersburg
Join us on Thursday, July 4, 2013, at Spa Beach Park along the downtown waterfront July 4th 9:00 pm weather permitting (weather conditions may result in fireworks any time between 8:30 pm-10:00 pm) No rain date.
Tampa
At the Florida Aquarium with fireworks over the channel at 9:00 p.m.
Venice
The Venice area fireworks are fired from the south Venice Jetty in the Venice Beach area and there are a number of good vantage points: anywhere along Venice Beach, Nokomis Beach, or from a boat on the Gulf of Mexico or anchored on the Intracoastal waterway, northeast of the Jetty on the water. Fireworks at sunset. website
