I wrote an article on this back in July which, at the time, seemed like a bit of groundless hysteria to me as I truly did not believe that the state could willingly move forward with such a groundless initiative. To my surprise none of the injunctions filed did a thing to stop the closures. I think that a lot of us were complacent in acting as we all assumed wrongly that this was a bunch of environmentalists gone mad…and that the state, in it’s infinite wisdom, would act in the best interest of it’s citizens.

We have no one to blame here but ourselves for inaction and the members of our government for being completely derelict in their duties of representing our best interests. There are 4 more Regions in California whose MLPA measures are in some stage of evaluation and will be enacted soon. If you value your access to our beautiful coast line I urge you to study up and join the fight. If not, you will be unable to fish your home waters….like me. Keep in mind that these closures can and will be used in modeling closures throughout the country if we do not do something now to stop them. Please consider donating to the folks listed below who are fighting for your fishing future.

http://www.savecafishing.org/

http://www.keepamericafishing.org/

I have been really trying to get into Big Game Hunting over the last 10+ years or so and really enjoy getting out with the Bow. I have even been lucky enough to collect a few nice animals. I must say that the learning curve was steep for me as I started hunting. Visions of Rocky Mountain Sheep and Bull Moose filled my brain as I started to collect the necessary gear and research hunting opportunities in the West.

Over the first few years I went at it blindly throwing money at pay-for-play hunts and thinking that killing something routinely made me a hunter. As I progressed my focus became entirely on public land opportunities as I perceived these to be the most challenging and rewarding. I no longer focused on killing as the primary objective. My goals were to spot and stalk Mule Deer, Elk and Bear on the ground with my bow only…win or lose. Throughout this metamorphosis I have come to the conclusion that there are a few fundamental differences between “Fisherman” and “Hunters”. These fundamental differences will always define me as a fisherman. Let me start with a few examples of fisherman vs hunter responses to the same questions:

A. Would you willingly teach a new guy the basics of your sport/hobby?
1. Fisherman – “Yes, I would…”.
2.Hunter- “No. My spots are not for sale. Let him figure it out on his own….”

B. How would you rate your skill level?
1. Fisherman – “Slightly below a God….and definitely above an immortal”.
2. Hunter – “Well, I have been hunting my whole life and know my stuff. Ain’t too many better than me”.

C. Would you give advice on spots to strangers on the internet?
1. Fisherman – “I would gladly give someone general spots and information…in exchange for their soul”.
2. Hunter – “Not a chance”.

Let’s stop there. While I am speaking in generalities here (and making some jokes), you get it. The fishing community is exactly that….a community. The hunting community is primarily comprised of a bunch of know-it-alls that could care less about creating community as they see themselves in direct competition with all other hunters. For proof you need not look any farther than fishing websites. Take a look at the many reports posted by fisherman. Fisherman are always willing to share some pictures and information or stories as I think that we all love reading about fishing. Sure, some of the stories are half-truths written by a guy that is half in the bag (scary drunk) that probably still plays with Star Wars action figures and will willingly argue about the benefits of mayonnaise….but he is sharing nonetheless.

Should you visit a hunting website you might find a few hunters talking about tech-gear hunting “must have-s” or eagerly pouncing on the new guys that post up asking for tips….or someone to hunt with. Hunters have this aversion to having fun with their sport/hobby. It drives me nuts. If I were to write this article on a hunting website I would be chastised by the members immediately…if not sooner. People would respond with hilarious comments like, “What is this, a craigslist add?” or accuse me of not “getting it”. My other favorite reaction from hunters on hunting sites is the claim that they are true Sportsman or Hunters when they sit in a tree stand over bait and shoot deer. Don’t get me wrong here, I have done it and I will do it again in the future (where it is legal)…but you will NEVER hear me use these hunting experiences to justify my “skill” or “knowledge” as a hunter. That is the rough equivalent of claiming to be a great live bait fisherman. Think about it.

So I say that I am a Fisherman that likes to hunt. I think that my fishing skills make me a better hunter, too. Reading SST maps, understanding the intricacies of temp breaks in relation to the marine ecosystem, memorizing tide charts, knowing how to present artificials, bait selection, troll speeds, and being able to fix a drag with a pair of pliers and a f-ing blow torch are just a few of the many skills that a lifetime of fishing have taught me. So far, hunting has only taught me to not talk about what I have learned.

F-ck that…I am a fisherman.

My Mr. Scary is mildly reminiscent of Gondor from the “Lord of the Rings” movies. That is the bastard that sends me into head slapping convulsions as I remember the horrible stories that I told the previous evening…or the purely insane behavior I displayed. My “Mr. Scary” Gondor guy is a total prick, though. He is not guiding me through the throngs of Middle Earth or introducing me to kick ass companions that can kill Ogars at all. My Mr. Scary just aggressively sends memory flashes into my brain randomly throughout the days after a bender. While there is no tangible Mr. Scary in the room he wields the power of 3 men. He is the antithesis of a moment of clarity.

So today I give you “Mr. Scary”. Use his name wisely….for he never forgets….and is always watching….kind of like a warped adult version of Santa Claus.

As a side note I must say that I have been able to avoid scary days in my advanced age as time has taught me that rattlesnakes bite. I no longer booze or do the crazy stuff that I used to. Now I am married, stable, loving life and finally realizing that this is the way that life should be. Here is the funny thing about life though, you are never totally Scary Proof. I still get that memory flash of something that I did or said that was crazy, inappropriate, or both from years ago at random times. Mr. Scary still rides in battle against me….only I am winning most of the time these days.

Except for that memory of the time that I head butted a live Mako Shark…

This week the California Department of Fish and Game passed the Southern California Region Marine Life Protection Act effectively closing 354 square miles of Southern California coastline to any fishing activities starting October 1, 2011(See attached map). This is a death sentence for Southern California fishing fleets that serve the local waters in addition to many private boaters that currently enjoy the use of these waters. So, the next thought or question for the reader should be, “They must have had ample analytical data proving that these measures were necessary, right”. The answer is simply “No, they did not”. I am not going to delve into the history of this decision or the agendas of the many, many meetings that had taken place prior to the decision but suffice it to say we license holding taxpayers have been screwed by the environmentalist agenda.

The ripple effects of this decision will be drastic. California is nearly broke and just closed the doors to the best fishing grounds in the southern half of the state effectively guaranteeing that fishing license sales will be way, way down in the affected areas. Additionally the associated miscellaneous purchases(boats, fuel, fishing gear, electronics, live bait, charter trips, commercial fishing, etc. etc.) are all going to be drastically reduced or gone as well. Why? Is it because our fishery is in decline? If so, why are seasons and bag limits not a consideration? Why are we barring the legal license holding California residents from fishing in California waters?

We all know the answer. There is no good answer. This is an environmentalist agenda that has both political and financial backing. That’s it. It is an opinion shared by many which has now become law devoid of any sound analytical/scientific data. Fishing in these waters is not our right, as has been proven. It is, however, in our blood….and this fight has only just begun.

Please consider donating to the causes below(California and National). This fight will be on all of our doorsteps soon enough. We have to stand together to protect our interests.

http://www.oceanaccessprotectionfund.org/

http://www.keepamericafishing.org/

Originally Posted by “”"”"”"”"” 

I have several pieces of advice for you. Call them simple guidelines for catching monster fish(if you will). These are in no specific order.

1. Human saliva carries a soluble enzyme that is paramount in attracting fish. spitting on (lubing) your jigs before every cast greatly increases your ability to catch both structure oriented and pellagic fish. If you notice that others on the rig are not doing the same do it for them then explain the benefit.

2. Offshore trolling patterns are another key to success. If you notice another boat in the area slide up with in 25 yards abreast of them matching their speed. This allows for double the jigs in the spread. Hence mocking a massive school of baitfish. Stay off the radio while in close quarters(high frequency sounds scare fish)

3. Whales are always a great sign that there are yellowfin tuna or bluefin tuna in the area. Set up your troll at the same speed as the pod of whales(California Grey)then mix into them getting as close as possible for best success.

4. Sea Lions are always a great fish indicator as well. A basic rule of thumb here is(as we salty captains say) “The bigger the dog, the bigger the catch”. Any time that you can fish in close proximity to as many sea lions as possible you exponentially increase your chances of serious success. Brailing baits(chumming) is a great way to keep them around.

5. For longer casts one can always rely on the proven techniques. My favorite is the “Pendulum thumbless cast”. Essentially you swing your bait in a figure 8 to gain momentum finishing with a forceful overhand/overhead cast. Upon completion of the throwing motion remember to stop as abruptly as possible while at the same time releasing your thumb from the spool. This allows for the rod to do the work for you. The trick is to learn hot to abruptly stop the forward motion of the rod while applying absolutely no pressure with your thumb. This can take practice…and yield wonderful results on long range trips.

6. Always remember to be courteous to sportboats. Cirlcing or passing within 20 yards of the Boat’s bow is strictly forbidden for safety purposes. Always, Always circle or pass the boat’s stern when they are stopped or on the hook(anchored). You can increase your success by trolling in a sportboat’s chumlins as long as you NEVER cross their bow. See your coast guard regs for this one.

7. Finding Kelp Paddies is a proven way to find fish. Essentially each paddy becomes it’s very own ecosystem over time. This being true, always remember to set a string of paddies in a “fishy” area on your way out to the tuna grounds. Mark them on your GPS and return to the spots in a few hours. This may require some serious kelp cutting in the morning and some storage for the trip out, however, the results are priceless. The trash cans that you keep the kelp in for the ride out will double as fish holds on the ride in.

8. Navy Boats- Naval ships are some of the best Ecosystems of all…as they are basically floating cities. Remember your trolling regs here(see tip number 6) and never cross the bow. Faster trolling speeds may be required depending on the Cruiser’s speed. Keep a tight line though. The tuna will be within 40 -50 yards of the stern.

9. Trolling speeds are generally between 18-22 knots for pellagics, and 16-18 for structure oriented fish.

10. Call out your GPS coordinates to your fellow boaters after every fish that you catch. This helps us all locate the schools and stay on em.

Finally, remember to have a great time. I encourage drinking heavily to ensure your “Sea Legs” and tremendous fun. Good luck out there!!!!

“”"”"”"”-

As the day wore on and few quality fish came over the rail I was reminded of how many times I have seen this very scenario play out literally in this exact location. Sometimes the kelp is just barren…or a “Frigid Whore” as my Captain buddy says. Sometimes we go out and just get our asses kicked for hours by the relentless Spring winds returning to port with little more than squid and sardine scented clothes and wind beaten faces. It is never for a lack of trying as we throw everything but the kitchen sink at them and work as hard or harder than any boat in the fleet. Regardless, sometimes Mother Nature wins. Does that equate to a bad day? Not a chance. As I looked at my wife and my 2 buddies laughing over a beer I was taken back to memories of “Bad Days” on the water. As I have had a few, I think that I am qualified to quantify a “Bad Day” on the water. Enjoy…

Bad Day #1- Late Summer 2003
Crew- Cary and I
Location – 35 Miles Southwest of San Diego(Mexican Waters- South of 371)
Targeted Species- Yellowtail, Bluefin Tuna, Yellowfin Tuna

So, after a long night of drinking that would have rendered John Belushi proud Cary and I decided to dominate our hang overs by heading out to chase the Bluefin and Yellowfin that we heard rumors of just southwest of the Coronado Islands. The plan was simple, get bait, get to the warm water/temp breaks in the area, find birds, and run and gun on top of the schools pitching live bait. Now, there are several factors/general rules in play here.

1. To effectively “Run and gun” with 2 guys total one has to drive the boat and the other has to have rod in hand to cast the bait into the school promptly as the fish are up and down very quickly. Thus the boat must run to the fish and the bait has to be casted almost simultaneously as the boat slows down.
2. You should not drink a bottle of booze the night before attempting this style of fishing. While this rule can be seen as “Irish Racism” it is very, very important. We ignored it this day.
3. Generally speaking, 6 foot swells with mixed up wind chop is not ideal conditions for this type of fishing….especially when Cary is driving…which is what we had that day.

So as we are clearing the harbor we met the angry seas(Southern California Standards apply here) with 6 foot and building swells, short intervals, and wind chop. Even more lucky was the fact that Cary had lost all inhibitions about jumping swells in an attempt to “Save Time” during the run to the fishing grounds. The run that day was mildly reminiscent of taking mule kicks to the groin repeatedly for an hour and a half with some bouts of paralyzing terror mixed in. I mention the terror because that was the first time I have ever actually seen the water from that angle(Bird Level) while holding on to the gunnel for dear life. After one of the more intense series of jumps I screamed, “MIGHT BE TIME TO F-ING SLOW DOWN” to Cary which is apparently a challenge to Irish mariners. That was met with a throttle increase of about 2000RPM’s, a series of more intense wave jumps, and at least a 3 year loss of life due to the series of almost heart attacks I endured.

Upon reaching the fishing grounds I turned to Cary and said, “Thanks for the memories….I am driving home….let’s load the boat”. Famous last words, I might add. With that the hunt for kelp paddies and crashing fish began. I was in my usual perch standing on the rail when we spotted the first kelp paddie. Cary swung perfectly upswell and the first bait was crushed by about a 15LB yellowtail. After about a 10 minute or so fight and a head shot with the gaff the skunk was off the boat.

The swell and wind pushed us so fast that it took a few minutes to reposition. I took the helm and Cary tossed the first bait up tight to the kelp paddie and was bit within seconds again. This fish had a bit of strength to him and walked Cary around the boat once or twice before being subdued by a perfect head shot with the gaff. As I pulled the struggling 20 pound class fish over the rail I saw a massive school of bait from underneath the paddie come rushing to the surface. In an instant the boat was surrounded by a boiling 100 foot wide bait ball. All hell broke loose as a school of Blue Fin began busting the bait from the depths at a furious pace.

I grabbed the closest bait rod, pinned on a sardine and dropped it in the water only to see the bait inhaled by a 50LB plus Bluefin before I had the time to even put the rod in free spool. In one series of tail kicks the fish busted me off headed upswell in the direction of the quickly moving school. Our boat was now moving downswell away from the bait ball and busting school of Blue Fin. With a Braveheart Roar I screamed “FOLLOW THEM” while grabbing a 3rd bait rod. In consistent fashion Cary hit the throttle and turned the boat to chase the school into the building swell. I managed to stay onboard while grabbing a bait and pinned it on the hook. The school turned west and Cary headed full speed to the horizon to cut them off.

Once we were even with the school I screamed, “GET AHEAD OF THEM”. The throttle increased and Cary turned to port towards the school when I took my hand off the rail and readied for the cast. As the boat turned into the school Cary dropped the throttle as I was casting….and the bow crashed squarely into a massive swell. From the starboard corner of the stern I went airborn….and time stood still as I did a 180 while clearing the port rail. My right hand(now free of rod) arched back in an attempt to grab the rail I soared over. With feet skyward and body completely over the rail my fingers caught the port gunnel for a split second and separated my shoulder while a gaff point lacerated my palm. With shoulder separated and blood flowing I hit the water in full slickers and boots…right in the middle of a busting school of Blue Fin Tuna. I sank in chaos. I struggled to the surface doing the one armed doggie paddle. My body, accustomed to the shoulder popping out, went into the fetal position underwater as I held my right arm by the forearm with my left hand and wrapped my feet around my wrist kicking violently trying to pop my shoulder back in. This all happened in a matter of seconds and I cannot, for the life of me, tell you why I did what I did. After the 3rd or 4th try the shoulder went “POP” and I regained use of my right arm.

The water around me was alive with bait and Bluefin….while the deck of the boat was frozen in shock as Cary and the “Coastal Killer” drifted away unable to intervene. If he would have jumped in we both would have been lost. I lost my deck boots and struggled out of my slickers in an attempt to stabilize in the water. Cary sprung into action grabbing the throttle and made a series of slow circles around me. Once in position he threw the dock line to me and pulled me in. I made it on the swim step, panting, bleeding and violently cursing.

After several minutes Cary got me a towel and said, “That was the craziest thing I have ever seen”. I said, “No Sh-t, I am driving home”.

After a week or so my hand healed and about a month later I had a major shoulder surgery which had me on the mend for the remainder of the season. I had separated that same shoulder before playing football so I can’t totally blame the surgery on this trip. Regardless, I think that this story serves as a pretty solid example of a “Bad Day”.

So when I don’t catch too many fish I usually remind myself that not catching too many does not constitute a “Bad Day”. My day of fishing Rock Cod with my wife and friends was a pretty good day….and maybe an incredible day by comparison.

All I can say is that this absolutely happened. I have the scars to prove it…both mentally and physically. By the way, I still fish routinely with Cary.

1. Jose Wejebe- Gotta love Jose. The guy is dominant in nearly all aspects of fishing, does not act like a jack ass, and really gets after it every show. I love watching the “Spanish Fly” as I literally learn something every time and do not find myself yelling at the TV or hitting the mute button. Jose has been doing this for a long time and I can remember watching his shows on ESPN in the mornings many a time growing up. Anyways, Jose Wejebe is the number 1 on my list. I look forward to fishing with him someday.
2. Larry Dahlberg- “The Hunt for Big Fish” is a must watch for any hard core angler. Larry is primarily a fresh water guy that possesses a style about as graceful as a bull in a China shop. Honestly, if he sets a hook any harder he is going to start snapping rods….or his back. I love watching the guy as his passion equals his effort on each show. Combine that with his intimate knowledge of lure making and you have the making of my #2 favorite show. Any true angler can learn a lot from watching Mr. Dahlberg.
3. Chris Fischer and Captain Brett McBride- These guys have had 2 separate shows. “Offshore Adventures” features Captain Brett and Chris traveling up and down the west coast of our continent fishing everything from Snook, Tuna, Marlin, Wahoo to Salmon. Couple the fishing with some intense free diving and you have the makings of my favorite west coast show. These guys are the real deal and are true waterman. As you may have seen, they are also the “Sharkmen” tagging Great Whites off of Guadalupe Island. I highly recommend that you add these 2 shows to your top 5.
4. Dan Hernandez- Ok, ok, this one is personal. Dan Hernandez was one of my idols growing up while he was on “Fish On”. As I was constantly being shuttled from one sporting event to the next I never had the time to be on the water as much as I wanted to(every day). Dan Hernandez’s show highlighted the local fishing scene for me and motivated me to get out there as soon as time permitted. The product pumping I could do without, but I loved seeing my local waters showcased on tv. While I can’t say that I still watch Dan Hernandez’s show, I thank him for bringing me into the sport.
5. Captain Scott Walker and Captain Steve Rodger- “Into the Blue” is simply outstanding. These 2 remind me of fishing with my buddy with their constant attention to detail and pertinent discussions. The techniques that they highlight are slightly foreign to me as I am a west coast guy….but that is why I love it. Much like #1 they fish different waters, but they do it right. Anytime that you have a chance to catch a show I highly recommend it.

If you are a Salt Water guy and you had 5 shows to watch(including Sharkmen) this is it. You can substitute Dan Hernandez with a local fishing show of your choice if you like. The point being that these guys are some of the best and will keep you informed and on your game.

Who is in your Top 5?

This time of year I think that all of us true sportsman hang up our hunting gear and focus on the forthcoming fishing season. The rains let up, and we see the sun shining inviting the pelagic hunting season to begin. Insider information has the Albacore and spots of Bluefin tuna at 180-200 miles south of San Diego with local SD water temps pushing 61 degrees. Look for Thresher Sharks at 63-64 degrees, the Bass to spawn pretty quickly, and the grey ghosts to depart from the cover of the kelp forest any day now. As you can tell, I am freaking out.

This is a perfect time for us to launch the site. That said, get involved guys. Post your reports, pics and stories to help your fellow fishaholics members out. I’ll be eagerly anticipating some good news on the Salmon season this week….and some whispers about my favorite Sharks showing up down South.

Go get em!

Dan