Shallowfish.com

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“Big Lure, Big Fish” is an old fishing axiom with some merit. It’s true that over-sized fish have an affinity for large meals, since they offer a big payoff in a single feed. (Like you, reaching over the asparagus for the big Porterhouse). But the notion that big lures are required to catch big fish just ain’t true. In fact, smaller lures can offer a decided advantage in certain situations, since they land softly, make less of a commotion when retrieved and — most important– closely mimic the small crustaceans and bait fish that predators are usually focused on when they cruise skinny water. Smaller lures require lighter line and tackle to cast well, so it’s more challenging to hook and catch a big fish when you use them. And unless you’re just hunting meat, that’s the point, no? So if you’re working the skinny stuff, try smaller lures. You’ll find that even big fish will smack small offerings that are presented correctly. (Like you, with the beer nuts).

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I’ve whipped up a nice, free resource for novice anglers, though old vets may learn a thing or two by looking it over, as well. It’s a simple, one-page download that details the steps required to tie three simple, effective knots that cover the rigging basics for most shallow-water angling needs. They’re the knots I use most often, and they work. As always, your feedback is welcome. Enjoy.

Visit this page to get the free download.

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Have you tried our online fishing game? If not, don’t wait. It’s a ball. Fire up the skiff, cruise to a sweet-looking spot, then cast to, hook and fight a variety of shallow-water Gulfcoast gamefish…all from the comfort of your chair. Note that we’re not responsible when your boss catches you applying the brakes to a big redfish. Click “Game” in the black bar above, or just click here. Enjoy.

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Just saw this great snapshot of migrating tarpon on The Wire/Felt Soul Media blog, and thought I’d share it. If you get a chance, visit the site and read about their recent trip to Florida, where they were assaulted by six wild cougars in a bar. Frightening.  Link.

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Each month I field a question from a reader and answer it as best I can, focusing on those inquiries and responses that I believe will be of general benefit or interest. I recently received this email from Saul (who recently relocated from Kansas to south Florida), who asks: “Do you recommend a pole or a trolling motor for my new shallow-water skiff? I plan to do a lot of sight fishing.”

If you earnestly intend to do a lot of hardcore sight fishing — and you have a hardy buddy who will take turns on the platform — then there’s simply no more effective means of sneaking up on fish than to pole your boat.

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Recently saw this pic posted by South Florida guide Scott Hamilton on the Florida Sportsman forums. (Click pic to see larger version). Man after my own heart. Anyone who invests this much jing in his equipment — and displays his gear in such an artful manner — is displaying indisputable genius. The scary thing? Scott tells me he has buds whose collections are so enormous they require a remote storage unit. It’s enough to give a man a dang complex.

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