Sport Fishing

by Robbie Smith

If you like sport fishing, you surely will like to fish for redfish. Redfish is a common name for a range of species of fish throughout the English-speaking world. It is commonly applied to members of the deep-sea genus Sebastes, or the reef dwelling snappers, Lutjanus. It is also applied to the slimeheads or roughies (family Trachichthyidae), and the alfonsinos (Berycidae). This feisty species is one of the best fighters in the inshore spectrum and, if cooked correctly, a great addition to the barbeque menu. Even some restaurants have adopted the fish as a specialty. For example, at the famous Redfish Seafood Grill and Bar on Bourbon Street, New Orleans, they headline, “At Redfish, we serve up a parade of award-winning French Quarter specialties, including classics like Blackened Redfish, Crawfish Etouffee and Jambalaya.”

Young redfish, or red drum as they are often called, feed in the shallows on clams, crabs, mussels and shrimp. Red drum are an inshore species until they attain roughly 30 inches (4 years), then they migrate to join the near-shore population; spawning occurs from August to November in near-shore waters; sudden cold snaps may kill red drum in shallow, inshore waters; feeds on crustaceans, fish and mollusks; longevity to 20 years or more.

The fish gets its common name from the copper bronze large scales on their bodies, which are darker in cloudy water and lighter in clear waters, but the most distinguishing feature is a dark spot at the top of the base of the tail. For the fisherman, however, the most recognizable feature is the tail disturbing the water in the calm shallows and frequently breaking the surface. The sight of a dozen or more redfish “tailing” as this foraging behavior is called is enough to set the adrenaline coursing through the veins of the most hardened sportsman.

Catching redfish is like all fishing. You just have to be in the right place at the right time with the right bait and tackle.

A fishing rods strength or lifting power is determined by its action. A light action rod has a low strength, making it ideal for casting light lures and fighting smaller fish, whereas a heavy action rod is much stronger, and therefore suitable for fighting big brutes like Giant Mekong Catfish. Most rod manufactures offer rods varying from Light to Heavy, but the extreme classes Ultra Light and Extra Heavy do also exist. Use a light medium action rod because you could end up doing a lot of casting before you finally lure your trophy specimen onto the hook, and use the lightest line you feel comfortable with. Just remember to set the drag accurately (the pro’s will actually use a scale and set it to sixty percent of nominal breaking strain).

The right time is easy, fish the feeding grounds on the flats and oyster bars on the rising tide and till just after the tide turns and fish the hiding places in the troughs and sloughs on the ebb. The most reliable spots are on the edge of the mangroves close to deep water. This gives the combination of a great feeding spot with an easy escape route when threatened.

As far as bait is concerned, if you are fishing for the pan, use live bait. Live animals such as mealworms, red worms, night crawlers, leeches, maggots, crayfish, reptiles, amphibians and insects may be used as bait on all waters not restricted to artificial flies and lures. Toss your bait or lure as close to the mangroves as you dare, let it sink for a few seconds, then retrieve slowly. Redfish tend to wave their tails slowly when feeding. When the strike comes, you will know all about it, and the fish will do all the work of setting the hook. Your job will be to get the fish away from the mangroves and then to enjoy the fight of your life. This is when the challenge of light tackle fishing will tax your skill and fill your psyche with pride.

Happy fishing, and look out for the recipe coming soon! Just remember, if you are not going to eat the fish, release it unharmed. Always respect your local fishing regulations.

About the Author:
My name is Robby, I live in Miami. I challenge anyone to make a fitting description of themselves that even begins to give a glimpse into the person they actually are. http://www.themiaminewsblog.com/

A Fishing Boat Can Make Your Fishing Trip

by Buzz B Berkeley

The fishing experience for many is great fun. Much of the fun comes from cruising the lake or river in a sporty boat. Many fishermen like to stand at edge of the river to catch fish, but most people make use of their boats. Those that enjoy wading get a bit of an adrenal rush from being in the water with the fish. Wading can be dangerous at times so one must be cautious; leaving it much safer to stay in the boat. Before any fishing trip you need to ensure that you have a good working fishing boat that will not leave you stranded. There are many different types of boats and you are sure to find the one best for you.

Sports boats are popular and offer many comforts while on the water. When you think of making the purchase you should also consider safety while on the water. Sports boats can be used not only for fishing, but also enjoying the water. There are many activities that can be carried out around your fishing time with a sports boat. Skiing, wakeboarding and many other activities offer something for everyone in the family. So not only can you catch tonight’s dinner you can also have a great time in a sports boat.

Skiffs are also considered a fishing boat. They are made for shallow water and can carry 2 people. These work best for smaller water areas and can be easily maneuvered around the water. Skiffs are very popular in smaller lakes and rivers around the world.

Light tackle boats can be used for about 4 people at a time. They are great for just about any type of fishing due to the ability to move around the boat. Fishermen can easily walk around the boat, which is necessary for many catches. The light tackle boat is one of the fishing boats that can be used to catch a wider variety of fish. Since the light tackle boat is a bit bigger it is sturdier for the bigger catches.

If deep-sea fishing is the journey that you are looking for you will need an offshore boat. The offshore boats are larger in size and generally range from 35-45 feet and can accommodate up to 6 fishermen or guests. The deep-sea fishing boat must be able to withstand the ocean water and the pull of the larger fish.

Of course the party boat or head boat can also be used for fishing expeditions. These boats are generally larger in size to accommodate guests. There are many luxuries of party boats so not only can your guest’s fish they can also relax and enjoy the water. These are great for picnics and a family gets together as well.

What ever you’re fishing needs there are a variety of fishing boats that can accommodate the beginner fisherman or the more experienced. Choosing a fishing boat can sometimes be confusing so be sure and read up on the different types to determine the best fit for you and your family.

About the Author:
Buzz is a fishing aficionado - OK - Fanatic! - He has been collecting fishing resources, and now has put them all together in one website. If you have the same passion for fishing, you'll want to see: http://www.buzzonfishing.com and it's sister site: http://www.buzzonboats.com/