Beautiful Beaches: video recorded at Clearwater Beach, FL. and nearby beaches. Video credit to http://www.wavesdvd.com/ - In honor of Florida Beaches before the BP Oil Spill Disaster..
Take a virtual beach break with "Florida Beaches" videos. Also, enjoy their other beache videos from across the USA and Caribbean. :)
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Monday, July 5, 2010
Safety Tips for the Traveling Woman
Avoiding Theft and/or Attacks.
I'm not a paranoid traveler, though I am a cautious one; especially when traveling alone.
Below I've listed some strategies, tips, defense mechanisms and facts to help you ward off potential trouble.
Thieves often perceive females as easier targets for theft than men. Women should travel with a little extra care; keep your caution edge in tune. It's easy to let down your guard when on vacation or business travel. Don't let concerns stop you, just remember to be aware of your surroundings.
Below I've listed some strategies, tips, defense mechanisms and facts to help you ward off potential trouble.
Thieves often perceive females as easier targets for theft than men. Women should travel with a little extra care; keep your caution edge in tune. It's easy to let down your guard when on vacation or business travel. Don't let concerns stop you, just remember to be aware of your surroundings.
First, always lock your doors at the hotel and in the rental car.
Always map out your ground travel prior to walking or driving.
Don't bring the bling: Avoid ostentatious jewelry; you will only draw more attention from a would be thief, and you could be injured if a thief yanks a bracelet from your wrist or a necklace from your throat.
Avoid deserted streets after dark: Stay in the safe areas of town; if you don't know, ask your hotel staff!
Watch the crowd: Some thieves prefer crowded areas - stay alert in places like bus stations and during street celebrations, where you're likely to be jostled - thieves use these circumstances to grab your stuff.
A few interesting facts: The #1 thing an attacker looks for in a potential female victim is hairstyle. They are most likely to go after a woman with a ponytail, braid or other long hairstyle that can easily be grabbed. Women with short hair are not common targets.
They also look for women on their cell phone, searching through their purse or doing other activities while walking, because they are off-guard and can be easily approached and overpowered.
The number one place women are abducted from/attacked at is grocery store parking lots. Number two is office parking lots/garages and number three is public restrooms. These men are looking to grab a woman and quickly move her to a second, secluded location where they don't have to worry about getting caught.
The time of day men are most likely to attack and rape a woman is in the early morning, between 5a.m. and 8:30 a.m. Only 2% of the rapists interviewed said they carried weapons because rape carries a 3-5 year sentence, but rape with a weapon is 15-20 years.
Therefore, if you put up any kind of a fight at all, they get discouraged because they know that going after you isn't worth it: It would be too time-consuming and they may get caught. These men said they will not pick on women who have umbrellas, or other similar objects in their hands that can be used from a distance. Keys are not a deterrent because you have to get really close to the attacker to use them as a weapon. So, the idea is to convince these guys you're not worth it.
Defense mechanisms:
If someone is following you on the street or in a parking garage or is with you in an elevator or stairwell, and if you feel they are suspicious, look them in the face and ask them a question, like what time is it?, or make general small talk: "We're having really bad weather today." -- Now you've seen their face and could identify them in a lineup, so you lose appeal as a target. Once you look a potential attacker in the eyes, they are far less likely to attack.
If someone is coming toward you, hold out your hands in front of you and yell "Stop" or "Stay back!" Most of the rapists said they'd leave a woman alone if she yelled or showed that she would NOT be afraid to fight back. Again, they are looking for an EASY target. You should always carry pepper spray, (my Tae Kwondo self-defence instuctor was a big advocate of it) yelling "I HAVE PEPPER SPRAY" and holding it out will be a deterrent.
If someone grabs your wrist, pull your wrist back so your hand is (palm facing forward) and twist it toward yourself and pull your arm away. It is hard to hold onto a wrist when moving in this direction. They will stumble toward you, so keep moving in a backstep motion, then quickly use that momentum to backhand them with your knuckles to the forehead, nose or teeth. If you are grabbed around the waist from behind, pinch the attacker either under the arm between the elbow and armpit or in the upper inner thigh Very HARD. Try pinching yourself in those places as hard as you can; it hurts!
After the initial hit, always go for the groin. It is extremely painful if you hit a guy's testicles (do not be afraid, your life may be at stake!). You might think that you'll make the potential rapist really mad and make him want to hurt you more, but the rapists who were interviewed reported that they want a woman who will not cause a lot of trouble. Start causing trouble, and he'll take off.
If you see any odd behavior, or your intuition kicks-in, don't dismiss it, go with your instincts. Remove yourself from the vicinity of the person A.S.A.P.!
Travel Safe, Have Fun and remain Aware.
Important WORDS OF WISDOM from a POLICE DETECTIVE about SEXUAL ASSAULT.
by: Detective Kevin Coffey
* Share this info with all the women in your life.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Important WORDS OF WISDOM from a POLICE DETECTIVE about SEXUAL ASSAULT.
by: Detective Kevin Coffey
I have to share some things I have learned in my job with you. In my job, I have read hundreds and hundreds of files, and have taken note of some of the mistakes women make. Let me preface this by saying that a woman is NEVER EVER EVER at fault for being raped or attacked, but there are definitely ways to reduce your risk of being a victim.
Here are the most common mistakes women make that could result in them getting kidnapped, attacked, and/or raped:
1. Getting into the attacker's car when he pulls a gun and orders you to get into his vehicle.
Most attackers don't want to shoot you ... they want you to get into the car so that they can drive you to a deserted place and torture you. Don't comply. Run screaming. It is MUCH more likely than not that he will just move on to an easier target.
2. Pulling over when a man drives alongside of you pointing at your car pretending something is wrong.
If this happens, drive to the nearest well-lit and populated gas station and look the car over yourself (or ask an attendant). Never pull over. Believe it or not, many women have fallen for this for fear of their car spontaneously exploding in the middle of the road. Not likely.
3. Not locking your doors while driving.
I have read several cases where the attacker simply walks up to a woman's car while she's at a traffic light and jumps in with his gun or knife drawn.
4. Opening your front door/hotel door when you have not positively identified who is there.
If you don't have a peep hole, get one. I've seen countless cases where the attacker gains access to his victims simply by knocking on their door. Don't let an attacker get into your home. He then has a private, relatively soundproof place to attack you.
5. Not being alert in parking lots.
If you go to the grocery store at night, don't be shy about asking for an escort to your car. Too many women are abducted from parking lots or even raped in the parking lot. Look in your back seat before entering your car. Cars provide endless hiding places for attackers, both inside them and in between them.
Be aware of your surroundings by looking to the left and right and behind you with your head up all the time. You may appear paranoid and look funny to others, but an attacker will think twice about approaching someone who appears so aware of what's going on.
6. Trusting a clean cut, honest looking stranger.
I see mug shots of every sex offender. They do not look like monsters. They often look like they could be your friendly grocer, bank teller, waiter, neighbor, clergy, doctor, etc. They are every age between 15 and 90, and probably beyond. Only a small minority actually look scary.
7. Trusting people to be alone with your children.
This is a difficult one, because child molesters end up being the LAST person the parents would believe is the molester. Most of the child molesting cases I see involve the stepfather, the uncle, the sister's boyfriend, the mother's boyfriend, the grandfather, the baby-sitter, the neighbor, the family friend, the youth camp director, day care worker, etc. Although rare, even women can be molesters.
In every case, the perpetrator is a nice guy, trusting, good with children, and the family is baffled or even in disbelief that the person could be abusing their child. When it comes to your children and grandchildren, be suspicious of everyone, no matter who they are. And pay attention to what your child says and how he/she reacts to the mention of different people in their lives.
I don't want to make anyone uncomfortable with this information. I have the dirty job of reading all these files, and it makes me feel good to know that I can share some inferences from what I have learned. This is not an exhaustive list of what not to do, but just some things that I have observed more than just a few times.
- Detective Kevin Coffey
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Head / Party Boat Fishing Guide
A comprehensive Head / Party Boat resource for resident and visiting anglers in Florida.
Head-boats, also known as “party-boats” or “drift-boats,” are a type of large recreational fishing vessel that charges a fixed fee per person – or per head - for regularly scheduled trips. Head-boats offer anglers an economical means of enjoying saltwater fishing. Head-boats can be found along the entire coast of Florida, and usually carry anywhere from 10-100 passengers on drift or bottom fishing excursions. Fishing trips on head-boats vary, and between the standard four hour reef trip and multiple-day extreme Middle Grounds jaunts, there is certainly a perfect trip waiting for you.
Be aware that during tourist season, regularly scheduled day trips may be full of inexperienced anglers which is why many ‘regulars’ book trips during the off season, during periods of less than ideal weather, or during limited party excursions. Almost every angler has experienced fishing on a head-boat at one time or another, and while many would argue that they are a waste of time and money and nothing more than a tourist trap, nothing could be further from the truth. For anglers who have basic fishing skills, head-boats provide a good chance of catching quality fish. All-in-all, head-boat fishing can be a great experience and if you are well-prepared and know a few key tips to help maximize your catch, you may just experience the trip of a lifetime!
Table of Contents:
Before you go What to bring
Tackle
Etiquette
What trip to book
Don't forget about the crew
Statewide list of head-boats
Before you go…
All party-boats operate differently, some work on a first come first serve basis, while others require a reservation as they only have a specific number of spots along the rail. This is especially true during special trips that may last as long as 72 hours. If you plan on purchasing your ticket in advance, ask the captain whether or not you can reserve a premium spot at the rail. If you can not reserve a spot, then I suggest you arrive at the boat as early as possible prior to departure so you can ensure a prime position along the stern. It always benefits to fish from the stern of the boat, because when the captain positions over a reef or other promising structure, he will without question position the bow into the current. Anglers who fish from the bow and sides will constantly have to deal with their lines running astern, towards the inevitable “tangle city.”
Be sure to ask the captain if his mates will actively fish while on the trip. Most professional operations do not allow this practice, however on some, this is a normal occurrence. When mates are allowed to fish, it tends to distract them from servicing paying customers. Before you pay, ask what the policy is, it will surely affect your experience.
Inquire if you are permitted to bring your own live bait. Some boats actually provide lockable bait-wells ideally suited for keeping pinfish, squirrelfish and other prime treats healthy and happy. Finally, ask about the galley – if they provide food and beverages - and if you are permitted to bring your own cooler or if the crew will be ‘marking’ and icing your catch.
What to bring…
All party-boats rent fishing equipment, but I highly suggest bringing your own gear if at all possible. I would never rely on someone else’s equipment to get the job done when powerful fish are on the line – no pun intended. I always bring my own rods, reels, terminal tackle, and bait. Even if I am going on a half day trip, I bring enough gear to suffice for any situation that may occur. Fishing licenses are normally included in the fare, but double check with the captain just to be sure.
To help protect from the suns harmful rays, I suggest bringing a long-billed hat, polarized sunglasses and sunscreen with a high sun protection factor. Extra clothes and rain gear are always good to have in case of a stray squall. Non-slip, rubber soled shoes or lightweight fishing boots are also helpful on wet, slippery decks. All of this is especially important during extended overnight excursions.
Because you are going fishing with strangers and not your neighbors, the captain will not turn the boat around if you start feeling seasick. If you are prone to motion sickness, I suggest taking Dramamine or an equivalent motion sickness remedy. Lastly, two other items that are important and often forgotten are bungee cords and a hand towel. Bungee cords can help prevent gear from slapping the rail or sliding around deck while the towel can be used to wipe off slimy hands. Whatever you do, don't forget your camera, and remember cash in small denominations to tip the crew. If you are in doubt about anything, it is better to bring it and not need it then need it and not have it.
Tackle…
For a half or full day bottom fishing trip – four or eight hours – snapper and grouper are the most commonly targeted game fish. Because these great tasting bottom fish can be line shy, I suggest using light line and fluorocarbon leader. Be sure to check with the captain about the gear you plan on bringing, as some party boat crews are not fond of anglers fishing ultra-light monofilament or braided line. Typically, the old beater rods that head-boats supply are filled with heavy line in the 30-50lb. range. The reason for this is so anglers can bring in fish quick and avoid tangles. I would prefer to use a 20lb. spinning outfit for catching bait and manageable yellowtail snapper, while a larger 30lb. conventional outfit will tackle large mangrove snapper, grouper and incidental king mackerel.
Anglers fishing on extended Gulf Coast head-boat trips should bring a variety of outfits for different situations. As I just mentioned, first, a 20lb. spinner can be used to catch bait and juvenile snapper. A 30lb. conventional outfit can be used to target larger reef and wreck dwellers and mid-water pelagics, while a stout 50lb. outfit will haul wahoo, amberjack and large grouper. For swordfish, shark and tuna, a 60-80lb. stand-up outfit will suffice.
As far as terminal tackle is concerned, a variety of leader material in the 20-100lb. class, an assortment of hooks and plenty of egg-sinkers in the 1-8 oz. size will suffice for all of your natural bait needs. A variety of bucktail jigs will complete a well-rounded arsenal.
Etiquette…
I already mentioned the benefits of arriving early, but be courteous to the crew and arrive no later than 20 minutes before the scheduled departure. On your head-boat excursion, you will be fishing in close proximity to other anglers and ultimately, close to other fishing lines. It is not uncommon to get in tangles and when it happens, do not get upset or frustrated. If someone near you hooks a large fish, it would be courteous to wind up your line until their fish has been landed. You would expect the same courtesy. When fighting fish, use the railing for support while moving around the boat, and watch your step and rod tip around other anglers.
While most head-boats allow alcohol consumption while on board, remember that you are on a fishing trip and not on a booze cruise. I guarantee your neighboring anglers will not be to happy fishing next an inebriated booze-hound. A few Budweisers is okay…chugging Bacardi straight from the bottle is not.
What trip to book…
In our great state of Florida, there are numerous party-boat fishing trips worth experiencing. Although it may sound obvious, before you make a reservation, be sure you know what type of trip you will be heading out on. Generally, there are three trips offered, half day, full day, and overnighters. Some boats offer specialty trips like nigh snapper fishing, shark fishing, 12, 24, & 44 hour reef/wreck fishing, swordfish trips, and long-range multiple day trips that target highly migratory species. The most basic half day trips usually last four hours, and are usually loaded with novice anglers. The price of a half day trip is generally between $20 and $40, and includes bait, fishing license and equipment rental. Because time limits the area in which captains can explore, I suggest taking a full day trip if at all possible. Full day head-boat trips usually last eight hours and start at about $50 per person. These trips usually have more competent anglers with popular boats carrying many “regulars.” On these trips, if you are somewhat of an experienced angler and the fish cooperate, it is definitely possible to put together solid catches.
New to South Florida is the Catch My Drift, an 85' party-boat that offers Friday night swordfishing trips departing from Port Everglades that last from 6:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. The trip is limited to 15 passengers and the price is $100 per person. For $15 more, they offer heavy duty tackle rental. With a cruising speed just over 20 knots, the short run to the fishing grounds seems like nothing more than a hop, skip and jump. Although the crew provides squid and blue runner, don't hesitate to bring your own offerings. Rigged mackerel are irresistible to hungry swordfish. To ensure that everyone leaves with some tasty table fare, all of the broadbills caught are evenly divided between the paying passengers. This insures an awesome trip is had by all. Because of high demand and limited space, I suggest you book your swordfish adventure well in advance.
The Viking Fleet out of Tarpon Springs, offers long range canyon trips that target wahoo, tuna swordfish, grouper and snapper. These extended trips are not for everyone. The hardcore anglers on these trips are serious, focused and extremely dedicated. The boat typically leaves at night and arrives at the famous Middle Grounds by dawn. Daytime hours are focused on trolling for tuna, wahoo, sailfish and dolphin, while evening hours are spent drifting for swordfish and tuna. Anglers on this trip also target deep water grouper like snowy, scamp, mystic, black and Kitty Mitchell. If you are interested in a trip like this, it is advised that you make a reservation early, as most sell out months in advance.
Due to the success of the extended Middle Ground trip, the Viking Fleet also offers a full moon deep water snapper and grouper tour. This trip involves deep water fishing for grouper during the day and during evening hours, the boat anchors over prime structure to target the elusive mutton snapper. This trip is limited to 10 passengers, and electrically-powered deep-drop outfits are available for rent for only $50.
Located approximately 20 miles from Key West are the Marquesas Keys. This tiny group of islands is known for its remarkable sportfishing, but because of its distance from the mainland, the charter fleet generally doesn't make the long run and the fishing is virtually untouched. Several Key West head-boats offer trips to the Marquesas, so check the local docks for availability.
Even further west of the Marquesas are the fertile grounds known as the Dry Tortugas. The Florida Fish Finder offers two and three day overnight trips to the rich wrecks and reefs around the Dry Tortugas. They have packages that include meals, select spots around the railing and with a maximum capacity of 36 paying anglers, the spacious vessel offers private bunks and comfortable surroundings for all passengers.
The above is just a brief overview of some of the many exciting trips available to Florida anglers. If you are new to head boat fishing, I would suggest you start out by experienced a half or full day trip before setting off on a three or four day full-blown adventure.
Don't forget about the crew…
On most head-boats, the deckhands work for gratuities. Although they may get some “slave wages,” most of their income is derived from tips. Be as generous as you feel, and don't hesitate to tip the mates well. As a general rule, 20 percent of your trip cost with an additional fee for fish cleaning services is adequate. If you do not feel that the mates were helpful and do not deserve a gratuity, then I advise you speak with the captain and let him know why you are disappointed. Speaking of the captain, remember that they are not overpaid individuals either. If the fishing was good and the captain put you on the ‘spot,’ then by all means show him your appreciation. Remember, the crew can’t take “Thanks” to the banks. Without the help from the crew, your trip would not be possible.
In conclusion, regardless if you are a boatless angler itching to fish or if you are just visiting our wonderful Sunshine State and simply want to experience our bountiful waters, head-boats provide an affordable alternative that should not be overlooked. With a little preparation and proper execution, the results you’ll experience may very well persuade you, too, to become a “regular.”
Head-boats, also known as “party-boats” or “drift-boats,” are a type of large recreational fishing vessel that charges a fixed fee per person – or per head - for regularly scheduled trips. Head-boats offer anglers an economical means of enjoying saltwater fishing. Head-boats can be found along the entire coast of Florida, and usually carry anywhere from 10-100 passengers on drift or bottom fishing excursions. Fishing trips on head-boats vary, and between the standard four hour reef trip and multiple-day extreme Middle Grounds jaunts, there is certainly a perfect trip waiting for you.
Be aware that during tourist season, regularly scheduled day trips may be full of inexperienced anglers which is why many ‘regulars’ book trips during the off season, during periods of less than ideal weather, or during limited party excursions. Almost every angler has experienced fishing on a head-boat at one time or another, and while many would argue that they are a waste of time and money and nothing more than a tourist trap, nothing could be further from the truth. For anglers who have basic fishing skills, head-boats provide a good chance of catching quality fish. All-in-all, head-boat fishing can be a great experience and if you are well-prepared and know a few key tips to help maximize your catch, you may just experience the trip of a lifetime!
Table of Contents:
Before you go What to bring
Tackle
Etiquette
What trip to book
Don't forget about the crew
Statewide list of head-boats
Before you go…
All party-boats operate differently, some work on a first come first serve basis, while others require a reservation as they only have a specific number of spots along the rail. This is especially true during special trips that may last as long as 72 hours. If you plan on purchasing your ticket in advance, ask the captain whether or not you can reserve a premium spot at the rail. If you can not reserve a spot, then I suggest you arrive at the boat as early as possible prior to departure so you can ensure a prime position along the stern. It always benefits to fish from the stern of the boat, because when the captain positions over a reef or other promising structure, he will without question position the bow into the current. Anglers who fish from the bow and sides will constantly have to deal with their lines running astern, towards the inevitable “tangle city.”
Be sure to ask the captain if his mates will actively fish while on the trip. Most professional operations do not allow this practice, however on some, this is a normal occurrence. When mates are allowed to fish, it tends to distract them from servicing paying customers. Before you pay, ask what the policy is, it will surely affect your experience.
Inquire if you are permitted to bring your own live bait. Some boats actually provide lockable bait-wells ideally suited for keeping pinfish, squirrelfish and other prime treats healthy and happy. Finally, ask about the galley – if they provide food and beverages - and if you are permitted to bring your own cooler or if the crew will be ‘marking’ and icing your catch.
What to bring…
All party-boats rent fishing equipment, but I highly suggest bringing your own gear if at all possible. I would never rely on someone else’s equipment to get the job done when powerful fish are on the line – no pun intended. I always bring my own rods, reels, terminal tackle, and bait. Even if I am going on a half day trip, I bring enough gear to suffice for any situation that may occur. Fishing licenses are normally included in the fare, but double check with the captain just to be sure.
To help protect from the suns harmful rays, I suggest bringing a long-billed hat, polarized sunglasses and sunscreen with a high sun protection factor. Extra clothes and rain gear are always good to have in case of a stray squall. Non-slip, rubber soled shoes or lightweight fishing boots are also helpful on wet, slippery decks. All of this is especially important during extended overnight excursions.
Because you are going fishing with strangers and not your neighbors, the captain will not turn the boat around if you start feeling seasick. If you are prone to motion sickness, I suggest taking Dramamine or an equivalent motion sickness remedy. Lastly, two other items that are important and often forgotten are bungee cords and a hand towel. Bungee cords can help prevent gear from slapping the rail or sliding around deck while the towel can be used to wipe off slimy hands. Whatever you do, don't forget your camera, and remember cash in small denominations to tip the crew. If you are in doubt about anything, it is better to bring it and not need it then need it and not have it.
Tackle…
For a half or full day bottom fishing trip – four or eight hours – snapper and grouper are the most commonly targeted game fish. Because these great tasting bottom fish can be line shy, I suggest using light line and fluorocarbon leader. Be sure to check with the captain about the gear you plan on bringing, as some party boat crews are not fond of anglers fishing ultra-light monofilament or braided line. Typically, the old beater rods that head-boats supply are filled with heavy line in the 30-50lb. range. The reason for this is so anglers can bring in fish quick and avoid tangles. I would prefer to use a 20lb. spinning outfit for catching bait and manageable yellowtail snapper, while a larger 30lb. conventional outfit will tackle large mangrove snapper, grouper and incidental king mackerel.
Anglers fishing on extended Gulf Coast head-boat trips should bring a variety of outfits for different situations. As I just mentioned, first, a 20lb. spinner can be used to catch bait and juvenile snapper. A 30lb. conventional outfit can be used to target larger reef and wreck dwellers and mid-water pelagics, while a stout 50lb. outfit will haul wahoo, amberjack and large grouper. For swordfish, shark and tuna, a 60-80lb. stand-up outfit will suffice.
As far as terminal tackle is concerned, a variety of leader material in the 20-100lb. class, an assortment of hooks and plenty of egg-sinkers in the 1-8 oz. size will suffice for all of your natural bait needs. A variety of bucktail jigs will complete a well-rounded arsenal.
Etiquette…
I already mentioned the benefits of arriving early, but be courteous to the crew and arrive no later than 20 minutes before the scheduled departure. On your head-boat excursion, you will be fishing in close proximity to other anglers and ultimately, close to other fishing lines. It is not uncommon to get in tangles and when it happens, do not get upset or frustrated. If someone near you hooks a large fish, it would be courteous to wind up your line until their fish has been landed. You would expect the same courtesy. When fighting fish, use the railing for support while moving around the boat, and watch your step and rod tip around other anglers.
While most head-boats allow alcohol consumption while on board, remember that you are on a fishing trip and not on a booze cruise. I guarantee your neighboring anglers will not be to happy fishing next an inebriated booze-hound. A few Budweisers is okay…chugging Bacardi straight from the bottle is not.
What trip to book…
In our great state of Florida, there are numerous party-boat fishing trips worth experiencing. Although it may sound obvious, before you make a reservation, be sure you know what type of trip you will be heading out on. Generally, there are three trips offered, half day, full day, and overnighters. Some boats offer specialty trips like nigh snapper fishing, shark fishing, 12, 24, & 44 hour reef/wreck fishing, swordfish trips, and long-range multiple day trips that target highly migratory species. The most basic half day trips usually last four hours, and are usually loaded with novice anglers. The price of a half day trip is generally between $20 and $40, and includes bait, fishing license and equipment rental. Because time limits the area in which captains can explore, I suggest taking a full day trip if at all possible. Full day head-boat trips usually last eight hours and start at about $50 per person. These trips usually have more competent anglers with popular boats carrying many “regulars.” On these trips, if you are somewhat of an experienced angler and the fish cooperate, it is definitely possible to put together solid catches.
New to South Florida is the Catch My Drift, an 85' party-boat that offers Friday night swordfishing trips departing from Port Everglades that last from 6:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. The trip is limited to 15 passengers and the price is $100 per person. For $15 more, they offer heavy duty tackle rental. With a cruising speed just over 20 knots, the short run to the fishing grounds seems like nothing more than a hop, skip and jump. Although the crew provides squid and blue runner, don't hesitate to bring your own offerings. Rigged mackerel are irresistible to hungry swordfish. To ensure that everyone leaves with some tasty table fare, all of the broadbills caught are evenly divided between the paying passengers. This insures an awesome trip is had by all. Because of high demand and limited space, I suggest you book your swordfish adventure well in advance.
The Viking Fleet out of Tarpon Springs, offers long range canyon trips that target wahoo, tuna swordfish, grouper and snapper. These extended trips are not for everyone. The hardcore anglers on these trips are serious, focused and extremely dedicated. The boat typically leaves at night and arrives at the famous Middle Grounds by dawn. Daytime hours are focused on trolling for tuna, wahoo, sailfish and dolphin, while evening hours are spent drifting for swordfish and tuna. Anglers on this trip also target deep water grouper like snowy, scamp, mystic, black and Kitty Mitchell. If you are interested in a trip like this, it is advised that you make a reservation early, as most sell out months in advance.
Due to the success of the extended Middle Ground trip, the Viking Fleet also offers a full moon deep water snapper and grouper tour. This trip involves deep water fishing for grouper during the day and during evening hours, the boat anchors over prime structure to target the elusive mutton snapper. This trip is limited to 10 passengers, and electrically-powered deep-drop outfits are available for rent for only $50.
Located approximately 20 miles from Key West are the Marquesas Keys. This tiny group of islands is known for its remarkable sportfishing, but because of its distance from the mainland, the charter fleet generally doesn't make the long run and the fishing is virtually untouched. Several Key West head-boats offer trips to the Marquesas, so check the local docks for availability.
Even further west of the Marquesas are the fertile grounds known as the Dry Tortugas. The Florida Fish Finder offers two and three day overnight trips to the rich wrecks and reefs around the Dry Tortugas. They have packages that include meals, select spots around the railing and with a maximum capacity of 36 paying anglers, the spacious vessel offers private bunks and comfortable surroundings for all passengers.
The above is just a brief overview of some of the many exciting trips available to Florida anglers. If you are new to head boat fishing, I would suggest you start out by experienced a half or full day trip before setting off on a three or four day full-blown adventure.
Don't forget about the crew…
On most head-boats, the deckhands work for gratuities. Although they may get some “slave wages,” most of their income is derived from tips. Be as generous as you feel, and don't hesitate to tip the mates well. As a general rule, 20 percent of your trip cost with an additional fee for fish cleaning services is adequate. If you do not feel that the mates were helpful and do not deserve a gratuity, then I advise you speak with the captain and let him know why you are disappointed. Speaking of the captain, remember that they are not overpaid individuals either. If the fishing was good and the captain put you on the ‘spot,’ then by all means show him your appreciation. Remember, the crew can’t take “Thanks” to the banks. Without the help from the crew, your trip would not be possible.
In conclusion, regardless if you are a boatless angler itching to fish or if you are just visiting our wonderful Sunshine State and simply want to experience our bountiful waters, head-boats provide an affordable alternative that should not be overlooked. With a little preparation and proper execution, the results you’ll experience may very well persuade you, too, to become a “regular.”
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Florida Vacation Sweepstakes
July 5, 2010
Enter sweepstakes listed on Tampa Travel 411 Florida Sweepstakes.
Win Florida Vacations, Theme Park Tickets and more!
New Sweeps will be added soon!.
Good Luck!
Enter sweepstakes listed on Tampa Travel 411 Florida Sweepstakes.
Win Florida Vacations, Theme Park Tickets and more!
New Sweeps will be added soon!.
Good Luck!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)