GENERAL BOTTOM FISHING DESTINATIONS

Angling in Malaysia
INTRODUCTION

The variety of freshwater and marine environments in Malaysia offer a vast scope of angling opportunities. Whether for serious game fishing or fun, Malaysia boasts a plethora of angling destinations. However, proper planning is essential when considering serious angling in Malaysia. Target species must be identified, timing and seasons also need to be taken into account. A well-organised Malaysian fishing package may prove to be the difference between success and failure.
FRESHWATER FISHING

Malaysia’s rivers and natural and man make lakes are home to over 300 species of freshwater fish of which around 40 species can be caught on rod and line.
The prime freshwater sport fish include the ferocious Giant Snakehead, the fast running Malaysian Jungle Perch, the Giant Featherback, the massive fresh water Catfish and the elusive but powerful Malaysian Mahseer.
The Giant Snakehead or "Toman” is a powerful fighter and can attain a weight of more than 20kg. However, common catches average around the 5 to 10kg mark. The Giant Featherback or “Belida” also attains a size of over 20kg while the Catfish or “Tapah” can reach more than 50kg. The Malaysian Mahseer, a sub species of the Indian Mahseer, is probably one of the most powerful of the freshwater fish. Although not as big as its Indian cousin, it nevertheless provides excellent sport. Arovana or “Kelisa” as known locally is a totally protected species. Now only caught in the more remote areas, this fish is a superb fighter, but must be released if caught. Freshwater fishing can be relatively easy with may pay ponds in close proximity to all west coast Peninsula Malaysia towns. Also there are few resort fisheries which offer a wide range of accommodation, a variety of activities and well-shocked fishing ponds. For the more hardy angler, jungle excursions which may involve trekking and camping can be arranged. A few excellent fishing centres are also be found on the fringes of Malaysia’s massive man made lakes.

SEA FISHING
The seas of Malaysia offer a wide diversity of depth, terrain and fish species. The west coast of Peninsula Malaysia is primarily a bottom fishing are. Depths rarely exceed 100 metres and quality table such as grouper, snapper and threadfin are the main quarry. Sailfish and Narrowbarred Mackerel are found seasonally while Giant Trevally and Barracuda are quite common catches. In contrast, the east coast of Peninsula Malaysia, off the distant Island of Aur, Pemanggil and Tioman is home to big game fish, the Black Marlin being the most famous. Other game fish include Sailfish, Giant Trevally, Dolphinfish (Mahi-Mahi), Cobia, Mackerel and Barracuda. The Marlin of Malaysia’s east coast average between 50kg to 150kg. The Borneo coast of the South China Sea also offer also offer excellent big game fishing with the island of Labuan being centrally located to these prime fishing areas. The east coast of Sabah bordering the Sulu and Sulawesi seas, with water over 2000 metres in depth, boast both excellent bottom fishing around reef areas and top class game fishing with Marlin, Sailfish, Yellowfin,Bigeye and Dogtooth Tuna.

The picture on the right is the Ocean Reel luxury boat for deep and leisure fishing and day and short cruises in Langkawi.

Very few fishing organizers, however, provide a full service including tackle, fishing masters and customized itineraries. Should you wish to fish in Malaysia, it is advisable to arrange your trip through the experts. With angling in Malaysia still in its infancy, opportunities to land that “big one” are real. Fishing can be a one day affair or a 2 week affair. It all depends on one’s quarry and destinations. Whether you are a serious angler or a fun fisherman, Malaysia offers the best for both.

Prime Freshwater Fishing Destinations
• Tasik Kenyir
• Tasik Temenggor
• Tasik Chenderoh

The above are made make lakes built for hydro electric power. The fishing areas are the flooded rivers that feed the lakes in the more remote higher reaches. Accommodation is fairly basic, but clean, while the fishing can be excellent
• Tasik Chini
• Tasik Bera

These are both natural lakes set in peat swap areas. Fairly shallow, they offer a wide variety of species with reasonable accommodation

• Upper Endau River
• Kuala Koh
• Kuala Tahan

The Endau river is primarily situated is the Endau- Rombin National Park bordering the states of Pahang and Johore while Kuala Koh and Kuala Tahan are situated in Taman Negara. They al boast beautiful waters, rapids, waterfalls, jungle clad river banks and a wide diversity of flora and fauna. Accommodation of various levels is available in each area. These pristine rivers provide excellent fishing.

NAME LOCAL NAME
Giant Snakehead
Snakehead
Giant Featherback
Malaysian Mahseer
Malaysian Jungle Perch
Giant Catfish
Common Catfish
Giant Gourami
Grass Carp
Javanese Carp
Arowana ( protected)
Toman
Haruan/Bujuk
Belida
Kedah
Kelah
Sebarau
Baung
Kalui
Kap Rumput or Tongsan
Lampan Jawa
Kelisa
PRIME SEA FISHING DESTINATION
Game Fishing

• Pulau Aur, Pemanggil and Tioman

The above and other small islands off the coast of northern Johor and Southern Pahang on the South China Sea are prime Black Marlin grounds.

• Pulau Perak/Tukun Perak

Midway between Langkawi and Penang at the southern end of the Andaman Sea. This island/atoll destination is remote indeed, but the fishing is excellent.

• Labuan/lucornia Shoals

Lying just off the coast of Sabah, the offshore banking centre of Labuan is the disembarkation point for regional game fishing.

• Mabul Island/ Sulawesi Sea

With waters of over 2000 metres in depth, this area is the centre for yellowfin Tuna fishing in Malaysia.

COMMONLY LANDED SEA FISH
NAME LOCAL NAME

Black Marlin
Saltfidh
Dolphinfish (Mahi-Mahi) (Dorado)
Giant Trevally
Great Barracuda
Narrowbarred Mackerel
Yellowfish Tuna
Wahoo
Rainbow Runner
Grouper
Red Snapper
Golden Snapper
Sharks
Suji
Layar-layar
Belitong
Debam
Alu-alu
Tenggiri
Aya
Tenggiri Batang
Pisang – pisang
Kerapu
Ikan Merah
Jenahak
Ikan Yu

GENERAL BOTTOM FISHING DESTINATIONS
• Straits of Malacca

From Johor to Penang, there are many off points for bottom fishing. Tides and currents need to be taken into account before venturing out. Very fast currents associated with the full moon and the new moon are to be avoided.

• East coast Peninsula

Most coastal waters offer good fishing for snappers and groupers with Cobia, Sailfish and Rays being fairly common.

• West coast Sabah and Sarawak

The many offshore-shoals boats boast fine fishing similar to the above

Angling in Malaysia

INTRODUCTION

The variety of freshwater and marine environments in Malaysia offer a vast scope of angling opportunities. Whether for serious game fishing or fun, Malaysia boasts a plethora of angling destinations. However, proper planning is essential when considering serious angling in Malaysia. Target species must be identified, timing and seasons also need to be taken into account. A well-organised Malaysian fishing package may prove to be the difference between success and failure.
FRESHWATER FISHING

Malaysia’s rivers and natural and man make lakes are home to over 300 species of freshwater fish of which around 40 species can be caught on rod and line.
The prime freshwater sport fish include the ferocious Giant Snakehead, the fast running Malaysian Jungle Perch, the Giant Featherback, the massive fresh water Catfish and the elusive but powerful Malaysian Mahseer.
The Giant Snakehead or "Toman” is a powerful fighter and can attain a weight of more than 20kg. However, common catches average around the 5 to 10kg mark. The Giant Featherback or “Belida” also attains a size of over 20kg while the Catfish or “Tapah” can reach more than 50kg. The Malaysian Mahseer, a sub species of the Indian Mahseer, is probably one of the most powerful of the freshwater fish. Although not as big as its Indian cousin, it nevertheless provides excellent sport. Arovana or “Kelisa” as known locally is a totally protected species. Now only caught in the more remote areas, this fish is a superb fighter, but must be released if caught. Freshwater fishing can be relatively easy with may pay ponds in close proximity to all west coast Peninsula Malaysia towns. Also there are few resort fisheries which offer a wide range of accommodation, a variety of activities and well-shocked fishing ponds. For the more hardy angler, jungle excursions which may involve trekking and camping can be arranged. A few excellent fishing centres are also be found on the fringes of Malaysia’s massive man made lakes.

SEA FISHING
The seas of Malaysia offer a wide diversity of depth, terrain and fish species. The west coast of Peninsula Malaysia is primarily a bottom fishing are. Depths rarely exceed 100 metres and quality table such as grouper, snapper and threadfin are the main quarry. Sailfish and Narrowbarred Mackerel are found seasonally while Giant Trevally and Barracuda are quite common catches. In contrast, the east coast of Peninsula Malaysia, off the distant Island of Aur, Pemanggil and Tioman is home to big game fish, the Black Marlin being the most famous. Other game fish include Sailfish, Giant Trevally, Dolphinfish (Mahi-Mahi), Cobia, Mackerel and Barracuda. The Marlin of Malaysia’s east coast average between 50kg to 150kg. The Borneo coast of the South China Sea also offer also offer excellent big game fishing with the island of Labuan being centrally located to these prime fishing areas. The east coast of Sabah bordering the Sulu and Sulawesi seas, with water over 2000 metres in depth, boast both excellent bottom fishing around reef areas and top class game fishing with Marlin, Sailfish, Yellowfin,Bigeye and Dogtooth Tuna.

The picture on the right is the Ocean Reel luxury boat for deep and leisure fishing and day and short cruises in Langkawi.

Very few fishing organizers, however, provide a full service including tackle, fishing masters and customized itineraries. Should you wish to fish in Malaysia, it is advisable to arrange your trip through the experts. With angling in Malaysia still in its infancy, opportunities to land that “big one” are real. Fishing can be a one day affair or a 2 week affair. It all depends on one’s quarry and destinations. Whether you are a serious angler or a fun fisherman, Malaysia offers the best for both.

Prime Freshwater Fishing Destinations
• Tasik Kenyir
• Tasik Temenggor
• Tasik Chenderoh

The above are made make lakes built for hydro electric power. The fishing areas are the flooded rivers that feed the lakes in the more remote higher reaches. Accommodation is fairly basic, but clean, while the fishing can be excellent
• Tasik Chini
• Tasik Bera

These are both natural lakes set in peat swap areas. Fairly shallow, they offer a wide variety of species with reasonable accommodation

• Upper Endau River
• Kuala Koh
• Kuala Tahan

The Endau river is primarily situated is the Endau- Rombin National Park bordering the states of Pahang and Johore while Kuala Koh and Kuala Tahan are situated in Taman Negara. They al boast beautiful waters, rapids, waterfalls, jungle clad river banks and a wide diversity of flora and fauna. Accommodation of various levels is available in each area. These pristine rivers provide excellent fishing.

The "Great Lakes" of Malaysia's Pahang State

All About "Great lakes" In Pahang

The State of Pahang n Malaysia can truly be dubbed as the "State of Great Lakes" as it is home to Tasik Bera (Bera Lake) and Tasik Cini (Cini Lake) which are consecutively the country's largest and second largest natural lakes. Taking a trip to these havens of biodiversity promises adventure galore for anglers and naturalists.

Sprawling over 6,150 hectares, Tasik Bera measures approximately 35km long and 20km wide. Its water landscape consists of interlocking lakes, fresh water swamps, pandanus (screwpine) swamps and peat swamps, which drain into the Pahang River, the longest river in the country.

From Kuala Lumpur, the easiest route to the lake is to travel to Temerloh, then southward towards Triang. Before reaching Triang, a signboard at Kerayong leads you to the northside Sudin and Dara Jetties. The Tasik Bera Museum at Kg Kuin has brochures and maps, and Tasik Bera Resort offers chalets and dormitories. For most visitors, a must-do is to cruise the myriad of river channels and bays on flat-bottom boats to explore the flora and search for wildlife. As the boat navigates through the narrow waterways, overhanging pandanus leaves brush against the faces of its passengers, while epiphytes, ferns, orchids and pitchers plants add color to the swamp landscape.

More than 200 species of birds have recorded at Tasik Bera. The White-Throated Kingfisher can often be seen diving into the water for fish. Feared raptors such as the Grey-Head Fish Eagle and Brahminy Kite help maintain the ecological balance of the lake. More beautiful avian creatures include the Malayan Peacock Pheasant and Uncommon Wrinkled Hornbill but sightings are rare. Commonly seen frolicking among the pandanus are Bulbuls, Spiderhunters and Pacific Swallows.

To spot wildlife, ask the boatman to anchor at a secluded bay or shallow channel and switch off the engine. There is the possibility of seeing the Malayan False Gharial, a fish-eating crocodile and the Striped Giant Soft-Shelled Turtle. Across the water's surface, water snakes and vipers can occasionally seen swimming from one reed bed to another. A feared resident of the lake is the reticulated python, which grows to a length of five meters. Its favorite food is monitor lizards and the Malayan Giant Frog - the latter tips the scale at one kilogram.

The lowland dipterocarps around Tasik Bera support medium-sized game such as tapirs, clouded leopards, wild boars, monkeys, mousedeer, flying lemurs and flying squirrels. Along nature trails, there are sights of their existence such as paw prints on mud flats, fresh dung, and claw marks on tree trunks. Angling is allowed at the lake, and more than 100 species of fish are found here. The adventurous angler will try to reel in the ferocious Toman (or Giant Snakehead) and Haruan (or Common Snakehead).

A visit to a Semelai village should also be part of one's itinerary. For more than 600 years, they have lived in Tasik Bera by fishing and hunting. Today, they rely on revenue from farming. They also collect sandalwood, resin from the Keruing tree and trap reticulated pythons for their skin.

Tasik Cini is located 100 km south-west of Kuantan, and consists of 12 interlocking lakes. Romanticized as the "Loch Ness of Malaysia", Tasik Cini's fame is attributed to a Jakun legend that a naga laut (water serpent) lurks in its underwater caves. The lake is also believed to be the site of an ancient Khmer city as artifacts have been discovered in the area though scientific expeditions to discover it have been unsuccessful. According to one story, when the city was threatened by attack, the populace submerged it using a system of aqua-ducts, intending to drain it later.

Traveling to Tasik Cini involves driving to the village of Cini from Kuantan. From Cini, the next leg of the journey is through the oil palm plantation of Felda Cini to the shores of the lake, where Lake Cini Resort is located. A more exciting option is to travel from Kuantan to Kampung Belimbing; take a boat ride across the Sungei Pahang, followed by an upriver trip along Sungei Cini -- where a canopy of lianas hangs overhead -- to the lake,

What greets the visitor is indeed a magnificent sight. The surface of the lake is black and spiky pentenas grass protrude from the water in many places. Wreathed in clouds, Gunung Cini rises 825 meters high, forming a beautiful backdrop. Near the edges of lake stand massive trees with their buttress roots half-submerged in water.

A highly recommended boat ride is to Laut Babi, the biggest lake in the system where turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. Another must-visit lake is Laut Melai. From June to September, large parts of its water surface are swathed with thousands of pink water lilies and white lotus blooms on velvety carpets of green leaves. Last but not least, one must also venture to Laut Gumum, where most of the purported sightings of the serpent by locals have taken place. During colonial times, British engineers who have glimpsed it have described the elusive monster as moving with forward lunges, while Jakun elders have claimed that it has a head resembling a tiger's.

At Kampung Gumun, which has a Jakun settlement, visitors can hire a guide to escort them along the nature trails. A popular trek is from Lake Cini Resort to Kampong Gumum, two kilometers away. Another longer trek leads from the resort to a campsite at Lake Terembau. The trail weaves through swamps, oil palm plantations and lowland forests. Along the way, there are frequent encounters with the Grey-Breasted Babbler, Crimson-Winged Woodpecker, Orange-Bellied Flowerpeckers and Lesser-Tailed Drongo. Traditional Jakun villages can also be visited, and one can try to use a blowpipe.

Tasik Cini is a sanctuary for more than 150 species of fish. The best fishing months are from November to January, with Gouramy, Giant Freshwater Puffer, Carp and various species of Catfish being the popular catches. From October to March, migratory birds make a stopover at the lake, enhancing one's birding experiences. Tasik Cini, an undisturbed paradise for centuries is truly spectacular.

Rules for Ethical Fishing

Rules for Ethical Fishing


A Proud CPR Angler With His Bujuk

Thank you for spending time to read this! Fishing has become a fast-developing recreational activity in Malaysia, in recent years. However, with this has arised certain issues to challenge us. Issues like reduced fish stocks due to habitat destruction, the threat from alien fishes, the spoiled environment, and poor etiquette and behaviour among certain fishermen. We anglers thus need to show the way and do it right. We need to be good examples for others to follow.

If we approach our fishing in the right way, the results will be there for us to enjoy. There will still be fish in our rivers, lakes and seas; we will not see rubbish strewn all over the banks or floating in the water; and we will not be irritated or frustrated by other fishermen’s conduct. Won’t that be a good future?

But the change must start with ourselves. Let’s be the role models, and practice Ethical Fishing!

Please read through these suggested Rules for Ethical Fishing. Discuss them with your fishing buddies. Make copies of this handout and pass them to others. Better still, leave a few copies in your regular fishing shops, or any place where fishermen hang out. The more we spread the message, the better for us!

Let’s Do It Right!

Sincerely yours,

Aznir Malek
www.fishing.net.my - click for details
Website Ranking

Note: Some of these rules were adapted from the fishing rules set by the International Game Fish Association (IGFA), a body representing anglers worldwide. The general objective is to promote ethical and sporting angling practices and to establish uniform regulations for competitions and the compilation of fishing records

A. FISHING EQUIPMENT

a. LINES

- Mainlines: Monofilament (nylon), multifilament (braided) may be used. Wire lines are prohibited

- Line backing : Backing not attached to the mainline may be used, with no restriction as to size or material. If the backing is attached to the mainline, then the backing should not exceed 130 lb. (60 kg.). The catch shall be classed under the heavier line.

- Double line : The use of a double line is not rquired. If one is used, then it must consist of the actual mainline. Maximum lengths for double lines are as follows

- Saltwater, up to 20 lb. (10 kg) line: 15 feet (4.57 m.)

- Saltwater, over 20 lb up to 130 lb.: 30 feet (9.14 m.)

- Freshwater, all sizes of line: 6 feet (1.82 m.)

- Leader: The use of a leader is not required. If one is used, then it must meet the following specifications:

- The leader must be connected to the line with a snap, knot, splice or other device. There are no regulations regarding the material or strength of the leader.

- The maximum lengths for leaders are as follows:

- Saltwater, up to 20 lb (10 kg) line: 15 feet (4.57 m.). The combined length of double and leader should not exceed 20 feet (6.1 m.)

- Saltwater, over 20 lb and up to 130 lb (60 kg) line: 30 feet (9.14 m.). Thecombined length of leader and double should not exceed 40 feet (12.19 m)

- Freshwater, all line sizes: 6 feet (1.82 m.). The combined length of leader and double should not exceed 10 feet (3.04 m.)

b. HOOKS

- For live or dead bait fishing: No more than two single hooks may be used. Both must be firmly embedded or attached to the bait. The use of a dangling or swinging hook is prohibited. Double or trebel hooks are prohibited.

- A two hook rig for bottom fishing is only acceptable if it consists of single hooks on separate leaders or droppers. Both hooks must be embedded in the respective baits, and separated sufficiently so that a fish caught on one hook cannot be foul-hooked by the other.

- Hooks for lures: When using an artificial lure with a skirt or trailing material, no more than two single hooks may be attached to the line, leader or trace. The trailing hook should not extend more than a hook’s length beyond the skirt of the lure.

- Treble or double hooks are permissible on lures

- Use barbless hooks whenever possible. They are just as effective as barbed ones, and sometimes better. And they are much more humane to both fish and angler (YOU!)

c. REELS

- Reels must comply with sporting ethics and customs

- Power-driven reels of any kind are discouraged, and prohibited in all competitions or record applications. These include motor, hydraulic or electrically driven reels, and any other device that gives unfair advantage to the angler.

- Ratchet handle reels are also discouraged, prohibited from competitions or record applications.

d. RODS

- Rods must comply with sporting ethics and customs.

- The rod tip (from the centre of the reel to the tip) must be a minimum of 40 inches (101.6 cm). The rod butt (from centre of reel to end of butt) cannot exceed 27 in. (68.58 cm).

- The above measurements do not apply to surfcasting, coarse fishing and pole fishing rods.

B. FISHING ETIQUETTE

a. THE ANGLER’S FISHING ZONE

- Respect other fishermen. They need their own space to fish. Do not encroach into their "fishing zone". Now this zone will vary according to the fishing situation, but the rule is to use common sense and a healthy amount of mutual respect.

b. COURTESY

- Be courteous to other fishermen. Get some agreement if you intend to fish near them.

- Do not make unnecessary noise

- Do not disturb the water unnecessarily, by wading, washing etc.

- If you are boating near other fishermen, slow down your boat, so as to minimise the disturbance.

c. SAFETY

- Always think Safety, for yourself and others

- Do not leave sharp objects lying around unattended

- Wear a personal floatation device (PFD) like lifejacket at all times when you are on the water

- Check for safety first, when you want to wade or use a boat. Seek advice regarding safety for the specific river, lake or sea, before you set out on your own. Remember; only cats have nine lives!

C. FISH CONSERVATION

Our fish stocks are now under pressure, from pollution, habitat degradation and over-fishing. We anglers need to reduce this pressure. Every good deed you do will help the cause.

a. ENDANGERED FISHES

Some of our fish species are now endangered or even close to extinction. Whenever you happen to catch one, please release it back with care. Some of these endangered species are listed below:

- Freshwater: Kelesa, temoleh, toman bunga (jaloi, jalai, kerandang), jengkua, kelah (except National Park rivers), wild jelawat, wild patin like patin muncung, kenderap, gerahak, sikang.

- Saltwater: All billfishes like ikan layar (sailfish) and mersuji (marlin), big sharks, kerapu bara (coral trout)

b. CATCH LIMITS

There are many of our species that, though they are not endangered, still need our help to sustain their stocks. You need to follow certain catch limits, to ensure this. These catch limits may vary from one water to another, but I suggest that, as a general guide, you follow the catch limits given below. You need to release the small fish, to give them a chance to grow, and also the big ones to give them a chance to propagate.



Fish Species (Freshwater)


Size Limits (kg.)


Bag Limits


Minimum


Maximum


1


Haruan


0.7


1.5


2 per day

2


Bujuk


0.7


1.2


2 per day

3


Toman bunga


Release


Release


Release

4


Wild jelawat


Release


Release


Release

5


Wild patin


Release


Release


Release

6


Kalui


1.5


2.5


1 per day

7


Temoleh


Release


Release


Release

8


Kelah (for managed river only, eg. National Parks.

For other rivers, it is best to release)


1.5


2.0


1 per group per trip

9


Kelesa


Release


Release


Release

10


Tapah


10.0


15.0


1 per group per trip

11


Toman


1.5


3.0


1 per day

12


Belida


2.0


3.0


1 per day

13


Lampam sungai


-


-


5 per day

14


Kerai


1.0


2.0


1 per day

15


Baung


0.6


1.5


2 per day

16


Kelulang


0.6


1.5


1 per trip

17


Gerahak


Release


Release


Release

18


Jengkua


Release


Release


Release

19


Tengas (kejor)


1.0


2.0


1 per day

20


Sikang


Release


Release


Release

21


Sebarau


1.0


2.0


1 per day

22


Tengalan


1.0


1.5


1 per day

Note: If you happen to catch a fish you cannot identify, and are certain that it is not an alien fish, please release it. Better still, take a photo of it.

c. CATCH AND RELEASE

- Try to land the fish as fast as you can

- Use a landing net, not a gaff. The net mesh should be of material that causes minimal damage to the fish (eg. knotless mesh).

- Wet your hands before handling the fish. This prevents the fish from losing too much of its protective slime covering.

- If possible, keep the fish in the water while you unhook it

- After unhooking, revive the fish: hold it by the tail in the water, move it forwards and backwards until its tail starts to kick, then let it go.

- If you wish to take photos, do it as quickly as possible. Do not hold the fish vertically (this may damage its organs and tissues). Support it with both hands, in a horizontal position.

- Unless you are fishing in a commercial pond, you should NOT release an alien fish.

d. FISH TAGGING PROGRAMS

Efforts have now been made to tag certain species, with the objectives of conservation and monitoring of the their growth rates and behaviour patterns. Tagging of sailfish in both the South China Sea and Straits of Melaka has been initiated by Persatuan Memancing Malaysia (PeMM) . The kelah of Sungai Tahan are also being tagged by the Kelah Sanctuary organisation. I am sure that more tagging programs will commence in the future.

The tag is usually a plastic dart that is attached to the dorsal area of the fish. If you happen to catch a tagged fish, please follow the procedure below:

- Do not pull out the tag, unless the fish has died.

- Note down the code number, and any other particulars printed on the tag.

- Record the following: weight of the fish, its standard length (from nose to base of tail), its total length (from nose to end of tail), the girth (the biggest circumference around the belly, exact location of the catch, water conditions, date, time, weather conditions, bait/lure used.

- Release the fish if possible

- Contact the relevant organisation and feedback the above information.

e. THE THREAT FROM ALIEN FISHES

The last few years has seen more and more alien species appearing in our natural waters, mainly via the aquarium and aquaculture industries. There is insufficient research done on the negative effects of these species on our local fishes, but observations by many fishermen show that the threat is real. Some alien fishes breed very fast, forage on the eggs and fry of local fish, or even destroy the habitat.

The end result will be stunted fishes, or reduced fish stocks.

We can’t afford to wait for scientific research on this issue. We need to take action now. If you catch any of these alien species in a natural water (river, lake, naturalised lombong etc), DO NOT RELEASE them back into the water. Cull them and donate them to a good cause.

Some of these aliens include:

- The Cichlids: Flower horns, peacock bass, jaguar cichlids, ‘kerapu lombong’, Tilapia (all types)

- The Carps: Grass carp, leekoh, bighead carp, silver carp, rohu

- The Catfishes: African keli and Russian catfish

- Other alien species: Pacu, lampam jawa, sucker mouth (‘bandaraya’ fish)

Note: even a local species may be considered an ‘alien’ for a particular water, when its introduction creates harm. An example is toman when introduced into a new water (eg. Klang Gates Dam, Batu Dam), may propagate so fast as to dominate the whole water. Selective culling may be needed here

D. PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT

a. CLEANLINESS

- Take back everything that you brought for your fishing. Leave nothing behind. After all, the stuff you bring back is usually lighter than what you brought!

- Bring large dustbin bags: you can also collect other people’s rubbish. Be a role model, and others will follow.

- Be extra careful with discarded fishing lines, plastic bags and small leads. These things kill birds, fish and other animals. Cut your discarded fishing lines into short lengths, then dispose into the rubbish bags.

- Tin cans and plastic bags make perfect homes for mosquitoes. Bring them home!

b. MAINTAINING WATER QUALITY

- Do not dirty the water

- If there are no toilets in the vicinity, do not urinate or defecate in or near the water. Do your toilet duties away from the water. Make a hole in the ground, and cover it back when you are finished.

- In stillwaters, do not excessively groundbait (berley) your swim. Too much groundbaiting deteriorates the water quality.

- Do not release chemical liquids (eg. detergents, oils, even carbonated drinks) into the water or by the banks where they can leach back into the water.

- Do not use insecticides (eg insect sprays) and animal deterrents (eg. sulphur powder) excessively. Some of these harmful chemicals may end up in the water.

c. CARE FOR THE SURROUNDINGS AND VEGETATION

- Try not to cut down any vegetation on or near the water. This vegetation is home to insects, a major food source for the fish.

- If you intend to camp, use specified or ready-made campsites. Try not to clear new ground. Exposed earth end up as silt in the river after heavy rains, destroying fish habitat and affecting fish breeding.

- Do not make open fires unless it is really necessary. A stove is always more eco-friendly. If you do make an open fire, make sure it will not spread to nearby vegetation. Always douse the firs completely before you leave.

- At campsites or along jungle trails, never leave cut saplings protruding from the ground. They act like spears when you fall on them! Cut them at the base, if you have to, leaving no sharp points.

- Leave nothing but footprints, and shoot only with cameras!

TO ENSURE YOUR OWN FISHING FUTURE …

PRACTICE ETHICAL FISHING!

Fluke fishing hits its peak

Fish On

Fluke fishing is in full peak in the Garden State. Anglers are working very hard to land a few keepers for the dinner table. With plenty of shorts to throw back, there are still some big ones for the taking if you are willing to put in the time.

Ambrose Channel remains red hot for deep-water doormats. Ambrose is a tough, deep drift, but has produced fish up to 11 pounds this week.

Perth Amboy: Capt. Mike aboard the Sea Hawk is drifting hard and picking through shorts for a few keepers. High Hook this week had five keepers with fish up to 5 pounds. Anglers have been taking an average of two to three keepers per trip.

Sea Bright light tackle specialist Capt. John aboard Reel Fun Sport Fishing Charters had the Tom Tanacredi party from Aberdeen out for a fluke trip. Capt. John hit Ambrose Channel armed with every fluke bait possible and worked a tight drift.

The crew landed fish from 3 to 5.4l pounds on the first three drifts and continued the day with plenty of shorts and a few dogfish. Capt. John is certain there is plenty of big fish in Ambrose Channel and it should produce big fish in the coming weeks.

Point Pleasant: Capt. Jim aboard the Cock Robin hit a steady pick of blues for all to fight. The crew also landed four bonito to add to the chaos.

The Cock Robin needs no introduction and sails seven days a week. Capt. Jim and the crew are the best in the business and family friendly. For photos of Bonito go to www.cockrobin.com.

Shark River: Capt. Joe aboard Irish Ayes had enough of fluke fishing and decided to call an audible. Capt. Joe had Johnny Oz and Bob G for a planned fluke trip, but due to a perfect weather report, they decided to head off to the Mud Hole and fish "Monster Ledge" for sharks.

Within a few minutes of setting up the chum slick, they had two run-offs but no visuals.

This was enough to get the crew excited for bigger things to come, but shark fishing is a waiting game and they did just that.

After a long wait, one of the lines began to scream. After a brief fight, a five-foot brown shark released. Lines went back in immediately as several hammerhead sharks patrolled the boat for a good part of the day, adding to the excitement, but they were just visiting.

Capt. Joe did manage to fight another brown shark and ended the day releasing two browns, and had plenty of visitors including whales, a huge sea turtle and learning why they call it "Monster Ledge."

Did you know?

Fishing Lake Martin, Ala., junior angler Ashley Cooper, of Elberta, Ala., guided by Ricky Walman, landed a striped bass (landlocked) on April 11. She used a gizzard shad for bait and after a 10-minute struggle, brought it to the scales to weigh in at 34 pounds, 4 ounces. The current IGFA record for a female small-fry catching a striped bass is 30 pounds. For more world-record catches, go to www.igfa.org.

Fish on!

Fishing Tournaments

Bellhope From Japan Wins 50th Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament
Win Free Fishing Tackle!


Kona, HAWAII - Last week the Emperor and Empress of Japan paid an official visit to Kona. This week, Kona Game Fishing Club-Bellhope of Japan captured the prestigious Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament (HIBT) championship, beating out Old South Marlin Club #4 by 93 points. Third place honors went to Malibu Marlin Club.

Skunked for the first two of five tournament fishing days, the father-son team Kona Game Fishing Club-Bellhope from Japan roared back mid-week. When the final fish count was tallied, angler Kihachiro Suzuki's week-long catch of five Pacific blue marlin and one ahi (Yellowfin tuna) put them on top of the scoreboard. On Wednesday, Suzuki tagged two Pacific blue marlin. On Thursday, Suzuki tagged another Pacific Blue marlin plus he boated a Pacific blue marlin that weighed in on Kailua Pier at 332 pounds. By the end of HIBT fishing on Friday, Kona Game Fishing Club-Bellhope tagged its final Pacific blue marlin estimated at 150 pounds.

His complete joy transcended language. Speaking through an interpreter Suzuki said, "This is my second time here at the HIBT. It is so enjoyable. I came to Kona with a feeling that I would win and I am so happy!"

Team Old South Marlin Club #4 of North Carolina rallied today with another tagged Pacific blue marlin, propelling them from fourth to second place. Malibu Marlin Club, the team that had held the top spot for three of the five days, finished in third place.

"We want to extend a heartfelt mahalo to the entire Kona community for the warmth and aloha shared these past fifty years," stated HIBT founder Peter Fithian.

Top Captain

David Bertuleit, captain of the 41-foot Kona Seafari, reeled in the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament's coveted Henry Chee Award. The perpetual Henry Chee Award was established in 1965 to honor the charter boat captain upon whose vessel the most number of billfish points have been scored at HIBT. The award's namesake, a pioneer marlin fisherman who set an unprecedented number of gamefish catch records, helped establish the Kona coast as a world-famous fishing destination. This is Bertuleit's first Henry Chee Award.

Anyone who knows Kona fishing knows the Parker name. Bertuleit started fishing for the late George Parker more than 20 years ago and more recently he fished with George's sons - Randy and Marlin Parker. About 10 years ago, Bertuleit earned his captain's license, took the Kona Seafari out of service for a year and rebuilt it. Since then, Bertuleit has fished nearly every HIBT. This year, he asked another legendary Kona captain, Tioni Judd, to come out of retirement to crew. "This was a great tournament because nearly every boat caught fish! But having Tioni fish with me was even better," said Bertuleit. "It was all about teamwork."

About HIBT

The Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament welcomes teams to its 50th golden anniversary along side the State of Hawaii as it celebrates 50 years of statehood! Once again, the world meets here in Kona as enthusiastic anglers gather from around the world to fish these famous waters including Australia, Bermuda, British Isles, Japan, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, South Africa, Tahiti and representing teams from around the US including California, Florida, Hawaii and North Carolina.

The Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament is underwritten by the generosity of the County of Hawaii and sponsored in part by Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Hawaii, Oceanic Time Warner, KWXX Radio and numerous corporate and community donors.

A fishing report

Hi Everyone,

This is Dan from Panama with a fishing report from this
last week. Needless to say, I don't understand why they call it the
off season. The offshore and inshore fishing was hot. Now, it might
rain some times, which it has only been doing at night, and the
cloud cover really helps with the tropical heat. I do believe
because of our location out on the tip of Punta Burica, we receive
about half the amount of rain they do almost everywhere else. Now
for the report. We had a crew here from Texas for the week of July
20th. 2 boats fishing for 3 days with Captain Oliver and mate Rafa
on the Miss Burica and Captain Victor and mate Matagato ( cat
killer ) on the La Chiricana.

3 Black Marlin hooked. One that broke the double line ( something
new for us ) was around 500lbs. The other was on for about 10
minutes before spitting the hook. The 3rd came up tail wrapped after
a hour long battle and after trying to revive her for another hour,
we had to bring her in. This fish measured out at 350lbs and was
caught by Kyra Hudson. Hated having to bring her back, but the
smoked marlin we prepared was delicious and the staff got to take
home a lot of fresh fish.

So many Dorado that we lost count. Most of them were in the 20 to
40lb. range. The weed lines off the tip of the Point were holding
tons of bait and the Dorados were there.

No big tunas, but tons of small ones with a few hitting 25lbs.
Margot, our head chef, makes an unbelievable seared Tuna with a
sesame seed glaze.

12 to 15 Roosters released with the largest one topping out at 68lbs.

Multiple Cubera Snappers. The largest one at 31lbs. We released all
but one of the Cuberas. Let me tell you, fresh snapper fillets on
the grill are awesome.

Multiple Pargo. Kept a couple for dinner. This is the only fish
Margot will use for her world famous Thai Fish Soup. Ask anyone who
has had it and you will understand why it is world famous.

Mullet Snappers and Blue Travally's. Blue Travally makes a wonderful
ceviche. How do you spell Travally?

Had 5 sails up, but couldn,t get them to eat anything. I guess
there was just to much bait around and they were just not hungry.

My First Fishing Story

It Is About My First Fishing Story

I run tomorrow for my brothers house on the lake I grew up on. I love the sea in a way I find it really difficult not describe.It a big lake, but it is not a magma is. There are seven islands in it, one of which is acres.Three of the 25 islands are a little more speed with Rocky a few scraggly trees, but one of them was a great place to sleep, if I was a boy . It is a lake of security, a problem with your boat and you have someone who comes to your rescue.

It is four meters wide current flowing down into the lake at an end, but it is not assigned to it.It is spring fed and sustained by the melted snow and rain.Because such rinses Lake itself and stays clean. This is not a deep sea relative to the others. The average depth is about 22 m, but a place is 60 feet, water is the sweetest ever met, it is a pleasure to swim is. If you dry your hair is incredibly soft and lightweight.

And fishing is very good. If I was a boy, he was even better.

We had no cap stealers this time, not boring panfish.We had Jumbo Perch, delicious, Small Mouth Bass and pike minnows. Small Mouth Bass have long been the best in the fight against the fish, reading books, cool water. Pike minnows are a treat for the taste buds.

When I was 14 my cousin Terry came to visit us on the lake. It is 7 years older than me, and we have more and more closely in a way Scherz. Terry is not able to fish very often and was curious about the head with a lot of fishing and me.I also knew the hot spots of the first morning, it shook me to go for 6 hours awake fishing.He unnecessary for me that early, but the boy was tense.

He wanted us not disturb, and canoeing in the morning we stillness.So. The lake was like glass, almost a deep emerald green, clean with a good view. We invite dives to the sea, calm as we paddled along the coast. I have Terry's bar with a Rapala draw, it looks like a heights Minnow with 2 hook and depend Underneath is perfect for my bar I everything.On horse flatfish. He had a hook height of each side and one from back.We on the road to trollling attire. The Rapala given a smooth curve in Terry's bar, fish dishes holding my staff just trembling.

We have caused quiet city like Terry paddled and suddenly BAM! My staff almost lunged with my hands. I stick my gesticulating little high for the brackets and Terry said "I have good here." I could feel the weight of the computer and enjoy the fight, if the sky .... the fight ended. The weight was still there, but the fight was sure that hell is not.

I was puzzled, quite puzzled, as I was moving death now focus on canoe.The only what I think was that the bass has the charm, and I had snagged a branch at the same time. Terry was also puzzled that I, my bar was.He diving edge such as fish and fought the battle to disappear mysteriously, nothing other than the dead weight on my staff edge.

I was moving in, like its Terry.When, it was in the network and made a joke about my fish with a heart attack before I have on the boat. I was still a loss to explain what happened ... I am a fighter minutes, is the next, I'm in difficult

I draw my focus to the network and Terry crying, he drew before the water network. It draws on my was sentenced near twins Small Mouth Bass. One on each side of fish dishes, they were almost all embrace other.Both were nearly three pounds, and anyone could assess an opponent, if it caught individually.

The only thing that gives us a first result, then the second attempt to take the "frog" of intoxicated it.Once just learned from each other and not against the bar, why would it only for weight I think the roles in

Two beauties on the same period and at the same lure.It never come before me, and there has never been there. I thought that I could have twice the fight, but in reality it was exactly the opposite.

We are released. I'm sure more confusing when we have been.

Area Fishing

FRESHWATER


Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie | Catfish: Very good. Capt. Jim Glenn reports that the bite for nice-sized catfish from 10 pounds into the 30s has been very good, even in the heat of the day. Largemouth bass: Fair. Capt. Inky Davis reports that on the upper part of Lake Marion around Pack's Landing the water has been full of crayfish and it has been too easy for the bass to eat. Bream: Fair. Bream fishing has slowed substantially in both lakes. Fish around trees and move around to find the fish. Crappie: Slow. Crappie fishing has dropped off in the last two weeks; fish around brushpiles in 18 to 20 feet of water with crappie minnows. S.C. DNR

Middle Ground blackfish

Jumbo togs from the Middle Grounds

"Oh, yeah, I never take that big Blackfish De La Côte-Nord, ejaculate happy Ray Desmond tartare as captain slipped into the network from 9,8 LB Ray beast. Ray titivate pool winner was possible, but not without many problems, not only large fish landed that day in the waters in the Middle East cause. In fact, most of the 15 fishermen, who became Captain Desmond O'Sullivan, owner and operator of Mount Sinai-based party boat, Celtic Quest, which is good, but a nice last Monday in October, bale hay Blackfish tyrant. In fact, most fishermen are easy limit of fish weighing between three and nine and a half pounds. This type of action is not uncommon these days as blackfishing took off in recent years, near Long Island, particularly in the area known as Middle grounds, where each autumn season, the fishermen and private fishing boats have been scoring game with a very impressive size clothing.

Name because it is midway between Connecticut and along the coast of Iceland, the infamous Middle Earth surface is about three miles in radius around the high Stratford formally known as host name. Located six miles north of Pt Jefferson Harbor is Stratford (Middle Earth) shallow (41 03 06N / 73 06 01W) is a rocky reef three-fourths of one miles long. Suddenly, in the 17th century, six to 10 feet was prepared for bar two islands surrounded by deep water. 100 one hundred years, sea erosion is located low country consists of three-quarters miles from the hive. To reduce the tragic incident and loss of life among inexperienced sailors and their ships, and slew of traitors lighthouse was constructed on the team, which remains a navigation aid for aujourd "hui. Dotted Rocky bottom, and the number of sunken wrecks and shallow to Stratford environment of different types of fish shelters during the season. Although this region is host to a fine and skip jack Porges actions during the summer season is autumn blackfishing get the attention of fishermen.

In nature, it is Blackfish reef / structure of the population depends on almost all parts of DNA which is structure that is inserted. Artificial reefs and sunken wreckage Tautog are typical of habitats, but it is dotted with rock bottom, which is natural to shave. Rock bottom dotted attract all types of geese and shellfish, especially blue mussels, which are the main food rig. Crabs and many species of molluscs, can also be found on rocky bottoms, and are important products. Thank you for the great conical teeth and powerful jaws, crushing the shell is a simple task. Tautog was very aggressive and fierce power, especially when the water temperature varies between 50 and 55 degrees. The water temperature in the Middle Earth starts to become the ideal mid-October. As the season continues and continues to fresh water, Blackfish action is really gear is usually continued until December. Soon, most often a direct effect in the waters along the swarm itself. Then, and in coastal waters and will continue to cool the head Blackfish departure for a deep, warm waters, the action taken by rocks and boulders meeting spread increases.

Captain Desmond fishing waters of Iceland than life and I deserved reputation for finding fish. Way on a recent trip I asked him some advice to the fishermen in the region could improve ratings.

Desmond told me that when it comes to large intrusive rocks of Blackfish, especially from Middle Earth, where the background can be very sticky, you will need to strengthen at least. A six or seven feet high notes stem from 30 to 50 liras. quickly adapt to 3 / 0 or 4 / 0 class conventional reels spooled with at least 40 kilograms of quality testing is ideal. Desmond added that in the current is really moving, such as Fireline PowerPro braided line and ahead of monofilament having a thin diameter section near zero tolerance for these lines are easy to detect the bite, and to authorize the use of light weights. When using ribbon Synthetics recommend the use of shock resulted in approximately eight to 10 feet in length from 40 to 50-LB. test in both nylon, mono or fluorocarbon leader. Fluorocarbons become almost invisible in water and increase your chances of catching a great razor. To contact the band leader of shock, the use of unit or ednoklonalni quality barrel swivel rated to 75 LB test.

Blackfish Most fishermen use a standard set consists of one or two Virginia style 3 to 5 hooks attached to 12 "snelled leader. This can be either fishing dropper loop a few centimeters above the probe, or tandem platform directly linked to the line two or three inches above the wells. Desmond captain preferred the second, except on the hook instead of two. Desmond also explained that the advantage of the hook against the two is that it reduces the risk that the second hook to enter the structure and losses and both fish and the platform. The Desmond as a captain is you spend more time fishing and less time re-clothing. Blackfish preferred platform for the region is about four meters from the 40 - to 50-LB. fluorocarbon leader with a dropper loop tied six hours in. above wells. I will allow about three feet of the Leader to join the main line is tied to the barrel swivel. Gamakatsu strong 3 / 0 circle hooks and octopus are my favorites that relate drops in cycle enables for faster entry. This style will also help to wear on the hook alone. Most of them will enter the hook on the corner of the mouth, increasing the chances for survival if they decide to play catch and release. angle that hook in the jaw, also helps to prevent damage rig free and therefore increases the speed of interpretation. Another advantage of these platforms is the absence of stagnation, which will remove the lure of spinning and help reduce delays on the hook penetration, which is inevitable if he has 12 leading platforms snelled. use this platform shape, often with remarkable results. I recommend it. Plombs complement the end of its use to doctors at the end of the cycle unit. As the flow rate varies depending on conditions at the time where it is better to assume weights ranging between three and 12 ounce handle most situations. Make sure you have a lot of leader material, hooks and sinkers in hand, because certain combinations of succumbing to a sound footing.


Bait green crabs are the most commonly used and easy to obtain. However, in the Middle sound pious hermit crabs, which are actually Blackfish cure, but it is difficult to obtain. If you can find are like candy to clothing. Krabi hermit is still the best fishing between the rock piles to wrecks and reefs that inhabit the rock structure. Stone crabs are a natural enemy Shaving size and bait. They are very difficult to keep alive, but must take into account the local pier, joining as a stone crabs are much more severe than in green crabs, and often create the greatest shave. To handle a crab, first remove the shells of crabs and it half. Large crab should be kept in the rooms. Remove seal and replace it with a hook and work on your feet always be established on the hook point. You can delete or keep the legs in tact. Both applications are productive.

For fishermen who want to fish in the middle ground of his ship, Captain Desmond suggests fisheries along the northern part of the Stratford shoal in 30 feet of water south of the buoy "1" and east of buoy "3" in sixty feet of water. Desmond explains that this region has the greatest abundance of rocks and a large number of two to five pounds of original materials Blackfish mix to keep things interesting. Captain Desmond advises scanning the bottom of the bottom of the registration, marking and fastening zones that occur suddenly, or in essence, it appears incorrect or broken. Middle ground can be found in water compared with the rest of the sound, light waste generally prevails. Three or four ounces ballast will work well during the invasion of stagnation and five to eight ounces. is usually sufficient, while the current move. Again, braided line will allow the use of light weights in the strong currents.

Although the actions of rocks can be fast pace so that the local wrecks. Captain Desmond often fish over wrecks are most often take the biggest fish wrecks. Probably the best advice, which could indicate that the captain during the fishing Desmond shipwrecks in the region to begin the theories suggesting that the online rental hit bottom, he stopped and waiting unfortunately difficult to determine hook. Instead, make the whole bottom and increase the length of several meters from the bottom and fish there. Captain Desmond explains that most of the wrecks in the stands, and 12 feet high and many times not to Blackfish wrecks, and along the walls. In violation of bait from the bottom of Blackfish have a better view of the victim of attack and revenge. As captain Desmond explains how often this method is used for Sharp and often ship pool winner.

This fall, the season has produced some of the best fishing rig north along the coast. It is better that what has been observed for many years, the Middle World, one of the hottest of the season. However, the time do not miss all the fun. If the boat is away for the winter, then head of a party or charter boats and tunnels. Remember that the best days for fishing, does not necessarily mean cooler full of fish. Practice borders. A fish or two hours after feeding, the fish will keep growing years

Your cabin and your roommate(s)

(Cockroaches or Carpets?)

Let’s face it, you’re young perhaps, anxious for your first job, and maybe in debt up to your eyeballs for training costs to get your magic Helicopter Commercial Pilot’s License. You’re anxious to get going, right?

I surmise some pilots are and mechanics are so excited to be even offered a job, that some real basic questions simply do not occur to them - until it’s too late to ‘negotiate’!

Tajke the issue of your cabin. Are you a non-smoker? How do you feel about being cooped up in a small room with one or two chainsmokers who are ‘lit up’ every waking moment? I’ve seen guys swimming from the skiffboat to the mother ship with a cigarette clenched between their teeth! (I was going to call it a ‘fag’ and not a cigarette, but then I remembered that the statement “I am going outside to smoke a fag” will have very different interpretations depending on where you are in this world of ours…)

Will you have working airconditioning? Very likkely, but beware:some systems are good, and some are really poor. I am a non-smoker, and I would not even entertain the thought of sharing a room, for months on end, with a heavy smoker.

How about bathroom facilities? Do you have your own private ‘head’ and shower, like many do, or will you have to share? It may colour your bubble when you discover that the John is a long walk up and down stairs, and that you may have to walk to the other end of the ship to wash your hands.

Especially at three o’clock in the morning.

Who exactly are you going to share with? Your mechanic? Your pilot? Only? That may not be so bad. But I would think long and hard before sharing with any crew members. Am I a racist? A snob? No, not at all, quite the opposite. I see us all as part of the human family. But I am a realist, born of some tough experience. Think, for instance, of the different duty hours. I’ve heard many a story about pilots getting tired out -and grumpy- from constantly interrupted sleep. The crew will be getting up at all sorts of weird hours. Anybody in the engine room, or on watch, can be setting his alarm clock for all sorts of ungodly hours! . The deckhands will be up at three or four in the morning maybe, hours before first light. People go ‘on watch’ on the bridge around the clock. How are they going to feel about the lucky pilot who can sleep on for a few more hours? Some will be considerate. The odd one though will be jealous, and go out of his way to be a thundering pest.

Switching all the lights on, coughing and banging around, etc. That was the unfortunate experience of one pilot ‘tunahead’, who was totally demoralized (and exhausted) in less than three weeks. Remember there are also simply cultural differences.

You may like to ’sit’ on the John. Don’t be too surprised when your foreign room mate likes to ’squat’ on it. Hopefully, he’s a good shot! If the weather is rough, and the ship is rolling, will he clean up after himself? Don’t bank on it.

This may sound awful, but believe you me…

Let me tell you one story, that says it all. I was invited onto an American ship out of San Diego, by an older pilot, recently divorced, and a little lonely. He was a charming, mountain of a fellow, who comes under the heading of a ‘gentle giant’. We chatted, and he told me his story. He was in a small, cramped cabin, sharing with two foreign gentlemen, who never smiled. They were surly and suspicious. Both smoked incessantly, and refused point blank to go outside. They both liked violent pornographic videos. He didn’t. They especially liked one video showing young Amsterdam girls having it off with dogs and other animals. That upset him. They shared a bathroom, which was a smelly mess. But here’s the rub of the story: after a few days at sea he noticed a small sign on another cabin door. It said: “helo pilot”. He peeked in. It was a nice, single room with a private head and shower! Occupied! By the second engineer. Our pilot went to the captain, and inquired if that should not have been his room! He reckons there was ’some considerable embarrassment’. No specific reply was made to his question, but a while later he noticed the sign had been removed…

That seems to me to be both unfair and short sighted. How boats like that expect to keep their helo crews is anybody’s guess. Perhaps they just like to see a contuous stream of new faces!

This story was especially interesting for me. I had applied to them a year or two earlier!

I’m so glad they turned me down…

I would ask if it’s possible to speak to the outgoing crew. Can you have his/their phone number or email please. That is a perfectly reasonable request.If asked why, well, you want to check on the helicopter, equipment needed, state of the helideck, etc, etc. The previous incumbent will tell you a lot, hopefully before you even set foot on board.

Many boats have very nice helo cabins, and some are downright palatial. Carpets, nice stained wood, large fridge, sink, cooker. Everything except a chamber maid. (and, seriously, I was offered one of those for a vacation in Taiwan!)

The odd boat expects you to rough it. Or hopes you will be too naive to object to a broom cupboard. It’s your choice. Do you need sleep, or do you function perfectly well having been woken up several times during the night?

If you go out there, amongst the endless wild and outrageous stories, you will hear the one about some helo guys who had a large hole in their cabin floor. It became a bit of a joke. No, it’s not an ‘Ocean Myth’. They did!

I once went onto a boat, after I already had a year or two out there, and I was a known commodity to the Taiwanese captains. I was shown to my cabin, with a big smile, and it really was a poky little place. About two feet of floor between the bunk and the wall. No shower, no head. I looked at it, and pulled a face.

Captain Alan, who was with me, and was retiring (he came back later!) took one look at it, and turned around and spoke fluently in Chinese! The next thing I knew I was being shown into a much, much nicer cabin!

You can’t be too demanding when you’re brand new. But there are limits. Once you are a known, and welcome commodity, a tuna pilot who gets on well with the crew, then it gets easier to -politely- state your conditions.

Ha! Cockroaches!

Being woken up by a humongous sized cockroach walking over your face is not conducive to restrained language, and feelings of cosmic peace and happiness! It’s happened to me more than once. Or you swing your feet out of bed, and stand on one… The secret there, believe me, is to invest in a caulking gun, like you would use in your bathroom, around the tiles, to stop water leaking past. Then you spend two days and plug up every conceivable gap and access route for the little darlings. Invest in a few cans of insecticide, and you will have very little trouble. The odd invader is quickly repelled.

I leave my rubbish bin outside the door, so no food scraps lie around to attract them. Some roach traps in the cupboards, and you’re set. Once in a while you will get an outbreak, and then it’s a matter of tracking down the source. On two separate occasions I found the source to be a nest in a packet of ‘Quaker Oatmeal’. Plastic bins with sturdy lids is the answer there.

The cockroaches find a plentiful food supply from the scraps and remnants of fish. They infest the net when the ship is in port. The first time the ship makes a set, an entire universe of cockroach cities goes over the side.

Even if a ship was to be really clean, the next time in port, it would soon be infested again.

Some pilots have really been ‘grossed out’ by the cockroaches climbing all over the galley, and all over the bags of rice stored outside the door. It depends a lot on which boat you are on. I was invited onto the ‘JM Martinac” for supper a few times. The chef would lay out white table cloths, silver and and wine glasses! It was like a luxury cruise liner.

Only problem was that they paid basic plus tonnage, and they did not catch much fish….!

Will you have a microwave? Kind of essential, don’t you think? Hot water maker? Running water? Plenty of cupboard space? Decent sized fridge? You’re going to really miss a decent fridge.

In conclusion, there are two words that apply here:

ask beforehand!

Francis ‘Moggy’ Meyrick (c)

Great Lakes of Missouri River Fishing Report

Great Lakes of Missouri River Fishing Report

Lake Oahe: The fishing around Pollock has slowed and it can be hit and miss. The fish are nice and healthy. Almost any bait presentation is working, with some anglers pulling plugs and others using crawlers and leeches. They are also pulling in some nice northern and bass.


Lake Oahe: The fishing around Pollock has slowed and it can be hit and miss. The fish are nice and healthy. Almost any bait presentation is working, with some anglers pulling plugs and others using crawlers and leeches. They are also pulling in some nice northern and bass.

At Mobridge the fishing is also slower and spots change daily! The fish have moved up shallow in around 6-20 feet of water. Fishing seems to be better north of the city rather than south. Anglers are using spinners or Lindy Rigs with crawlers.

Around Akaska it was a little slower over the weekend. Anglers are using minnows, crawlers and leeches in 10-30 feet of water. Some anglers are pulling plugs.

At Gettysburg fishing is slow and can be spotty in this area also. All types of bait being used – with some anglers pulling plugs, using crawlers and leeches or bottom bouncers and spinners. Anglers are finding fish in around 20-35 feet. Small mouth bass are also going well.

Around Spring/Cow Creek the fishing is tremendous, with no bad places to fish. Anglers are using bottom bouncers, plugs and snap weights in 8-50 foot of water with lead core line. The Governor’s Cup Walleye Tournament was held at Spring Creek Resort this past weekend and was a success with 98 teams participating.

Fishing from Bush’s Landing to the Cheyenne River to the Oahe Dam has been excellent for walleye. Anglers are catching fish on Lindy Rigs or spinners with crawlers and leeches in 5-30 feet and they are catching lots of fish. Salmon fishing is still going good using herring, spoons or squid. Anglers are fishing around 35 feet in the early morning and 75 feet later in the afternoon.

Reminder: On Lakes Sharpe and Francis Case and the Missouri River from the Nebraska border upstream to Fort Randall Dam - the minimum length of 15” for walleye/sauger and saugeye is off for July and August – there is no minimum restriction for those months. Daily limit may include no more than one 20” or longer year-round.

On Lake Sharpe fishing pressure is low in the Pierre area with traffic moving to Lake Oahe, but there are lots of fish. Anglers have found good fishing on the Farm Island flats. At West Bend walleye and smallmouth are going well in 8-20 feet with anglers using spinners with crawlers or leeches or crankbaits.

In all of these areas it would be good to come during the week when there is a lot less traffic.

Francis Case is slowing a bit. Around Chamberlain walleye are biting on minnows and crawlers with some anglers pulling plugs in 10-30 feet.

In the Platte area fishing for walleye has slowed. Walleye fisherman saw the fish starting to move deeper with most having the best luck in 50 feet or below. White bass fishing is going very well.

At the Pickstown and Wagner areas, walleye fishing below the dam has been slow to fair in the boat bay and fast water. Catfish have been biting well below the dam. Walleye have been biting well from South Shore to Whetstone on crawlers and lead lining plugs. A few white bass are biting in the fast water. The small mouth bass bite has been fair up on the lake in the bays and inner points.

Around Lewis & Clark Lake they are catching a lot of catfish on crawlers, hot dogs and stink bait. Fishing for other species has been slow.

On the river the gates are closed for the rest of the month. They are catching lots of white bass pulling plugs or using live bait on bottom bouncers or spinners floating with a crawler harness.

On Lake Yankton lots of catfish, bluegill and largemouth bass are being caught in the early morning and in the evening. Archery season for paddlefish opened on July 11th and goes through August 9th.

We would suggest calling one the resorts or bait shops listed below to get the latest update on the area fishing. They are all members of the Great Lakes Association and help provide this report each week.

Pier fishing experience

Gulf Shores

This week, the new pier in gulf State Park is open and Alabama has the longest such structure in the gulf Coast with more than 1,500 feet. Alabama does not have a dock as hurricane Ivan destroyed the old, and I'm happy to see them.

I think now that I own a boat, I'm really not much need for a seaport. Boats that offer a lot of options that are not pillar. But tells me I can only lock onto it regardless.

A Pier play a role in my introduction to saltwater fishing. My friends from childhood days, Greg Armistead, invited me to visit him and his family for a weekend in gulf Shores, than I am 7 years old. This is the first time I was on shore since I started fishing, and I have my little Zebco reels 202 and true temper rod.

All weekend, Greg patricidal, G. Wilmer, clean my hook baited with shrimp pieces and I reeled in whiting and other small fish. Mr. Wilmer saw how I loved the fishing and this leads us to an old wooden pier smelled the salt and creosote.

I am absolutely thrilled that I can see the sheep's head and nibbling on barnacles in piling. Apparently he had a lot of Hooks, because they always steal the sense from mine.

A set of serious looking guys with long poles line the edges of dock and chatted with each other. They all wore long pants, button-up short-sleeve shirts and the old days of cheap slip on tennis shoes. I do not think any of them started all while I was there, but I wondered what they want to haul heavy equipment.

I have not a thing. In fact, about the only success I had was the rule, a crab on top before it stopped.

Travel that has a terrible rash under my arms from horseback in the water in an old black car hose, mini golf, more than allowed by law and completely block the poor with little Zebco rust. And I know that I return to my dock to the next.

If my family behind, I managed to Badger my father on a trip to the dock. At this time, the concrete pier that Hurricane Frederick was finally hammered on energy.

I fed the sheep's head all of my kindness, without managing to land one and then my attention to the serious guys at the end of the pier. They all have black Mitchell 300 spinning reels and other small rod with an odd looking rig to the end.

The small rod is their sense rod and the rig is attached to the fishing of menhaden. It consists of wire loops with a red band running it. The menhaden swam up to peck around and became ensnared in the loops.

The people were heavy weight at the end of their big sticks, and he threw the weight as far as he could. Then they had a short piece of hook and line to a swivel. The menhaden catch in the back, cut off the snap swivel on the line, which held in place by weight, and they let the menhaden slide track on the water.

There is a trolley rig. When a fish to sense the rig skidded along the track until he reached the weight. Then it stopped and the hook of the angler.

It is June and king mackerel were cruising speed close enough to the beach with dock for fishermen. They all leaned against the railing in conversations with their brown arms folded over the chest in a serious kind of way, until he got a strike.

Suddenly one of the poles and the curve of the role of drag will squeak. All men are for their staffs to see the fish. Then all but the angler with the fish rolls into a massive tangle.

The king will take off until the coils are nearly bare. In the last minute, anglers will be fish around and start fighting against them in the dock. This will take several runs before rolling to his side.

The fish was 20 feet below and the way to crank hard dead weight. Thus a person becomes a spur jetty. This is such a large treble Hooks are only four instead of three points. A heavy, cylindrical lead weight rod with hooks and a long rope is eyelet.

The men lowered the gaff gaff until it hung just below the water surface. The angler then leader of the King until he was exhausted directly above the pier gaff. Yank the gaff man with rope, drop the points in the King and then drag it to the rope.

I was intrigued and dying in one of the great kings. I bought a Mitchell 300 and tried my hand at it, but not successful. I remember walking with heavy fishing pier watching what they did.

I stood next to a poor man and asked him all kinds of questions. I do not know what he will be eligible to make such a stipulation, but I finally completely wore his patience.

"The fishermen are silent," he said to me after an infinite torrent of questions.

I think that colleagues about each time I apply for a child who worries you to death.

You can learn a lot on a pier. When I was 14, I was on a school trip to Panama City and the only man in a tackle. I went to a pier and reeled some Hard tail.

I was for many years, perhaps from mid ng'70s until the early 90s, with no fishing pier. When I return to the gulf Shores Pier, I discovered that some things have changed, but some not.

I stopped and bought a car and the rig for menhaden helpfulness outfit. I quickly discovered that the car was difficult for anglers, with their heavy free-line live sense. In fact, trolley rigs are banned at the end of the pier, where the heavy men fished.

It is August, and the king is far from shallow water. They were all great to catch Spanish mackerel.

A small boy stood next to casting and popping a small white jig. Every few casts, a Spaniard will taste it and he will roll in

Most Spanish easily brought lure wire leader. But these are very well trained and hook shy. He has a 80-pound monofilament as a leader.

I bought a pair of devices and tried a wire-line and not become a hit. I have the device with a bare line, and got cut off. It is always something you need in your tackle box, no need.

Serious fishermen are more intense than ever. They Drew small car ring 10 or rod holders. Each with a holder of a rod and the car was loaded combat.

I was a good piece of "shooting". The skeet range, most people are happy to give you advice and help you. The mole is a far different place. They compete for the same fish, and most people, their secret to themselves.

Strong fishing pier are all the regulars and either or persons often in place. They believed that they actually had a stake in the Pier and not suffer outsiders, and other fools. He had other tourist right to strike a decent conversation.

I do not know what this leads to an insider, but I knew that I was not long enough to make a poem to make it a vacation.

I have not really caught a lot of moles, but I saw enough to know that the fish was caught.

Over time, I began to need boats with different people and then myself.

The boat is actually a better way to fish as a pillar. But this is a completely different experience. And the great things that people have the opportunity to experience it again in Alabama.

Fish Low in the morning and the night of the bluegill sunfish

Afinliza: fish low in the morning and the night of the bluegill sunfish


Sea are in the mid 80s. Lake Lanier remains consistent water level to nearly 1066 meters, which is five meters under a group of 1071 meters. Lake Lanier is clear on the main sea and in the bays. The Chattahoochee River is clear. Check generation programs, before the river at 770-945-1466.

Measures of topwater bass fishing has been a good bit slower for me in recent weeks. Some reports say that he is still worthy of action, but personally I do not so much in the last two weeks.

It was a great morning topwater bite Zoom random results and SPRO Dawg 100S, but when the sun above, we have the best results working subsurface bait like worms, swim bait, Buck fish tail and head turns.

There are some Spotted Bass in 10 hours - up to 15 feet of the range which does or less. This bass is biting Jig-head-and-operated Drop Shot worms, but the improvement in fish 20-30 feet over brush and around Rock-and-drop offs pile.

In addition, not totally flat or fish topwater action, because some say it is they operate. Also try fishing Fish Head Spins or lure to swim and brush piles for active Spotted Bass.

The Drop-Shot bite, and lined up on the spot tail minnows in brush piles 20 - 30 meters deep has been very consistent.

This type of fishing requires a boat with GPS and electronics. My Humminbird 777c and 797c imaging page well serve me, when, on the deepest bass.

Almost a point of departure or bumps on Lake Lanier is at least a lot of brushes and many have more than one. Fishermen know more and more of the "place of the body, which means that each location in a housing of the general rule, a Sweet Spot logical that the majority of fish.

Often, Sweet spots are the size of a ship or pick-up truck bed, and if you are in position, can be better is often more fish in the same place. I suggest that if you have a good field for a certain time for your Minn Kota trolling motor and slowly break down and you will find the Sweet Spot.

Spot tail Cyprins is better than on the technique during the summer. You can use these baitfish Starring local bank, bearing a label or Bobber position your boat before the brush piles and hook on a drop-down or shot rig. Use circle hooks when using Live-minnows to ensure that the area of low, you can simply released.

After nightfall, work Spinner large black primer, primer deeply during crank or a black SPRO K-Finesse Jig with a big fan of 5-25 feet Wednesday, principal points.

Stripes still fishing very well and the stripers are in deep water summer model. Following your Humminbird Electronics and objective depths of 30 - to 50 meters deep and 60 - to 90 feet above the ground near the river and canals to the upper and lower lake.

Some fishermen say the first bite is best, which in the morning, while others better in the day.

Fish blue back herring on a drive and a little more of your bait, you select the fish in the Finder. The power of reeling technique is always a good way to bite, if you click on your chart stripers, which are not Bitting.

Drop the bait in schools and the role of diameter quickly. Make sure to buy a lot and keep alive the beginning and salt on the ice during the day. In addition, over a two ounces Senkgewicht for blueback quickly by the hot surface layers of water on the costs Termokline. Hammond's stop for good in blue and back at the forefront of fisheries adviser.

Trollers in the river channel is a little better this week.

Fish two ounces SPRO Bucktail with Grub little Dura, hyper-queue or try a Live-blue back herring. Place them with a Cannon downrigger at about 30 meters deep. You can also lead to the baseline of eight to nine colors. Guide your boat at about 2-3 miles an hour for best results.

Here is an advice from a reader: He says he has some great fishing for stripers in rivers and in the upper lake from the bank. He said the info I could but not the exact situation.

Crapet still fishing well after nightfall. Keith Pace, owner of microfinance and devices spoon always said, they make good Stringer illuminated boats and the harbor bridge pilings. It uses a Hydro Glow Light on bridges and fish with minnows Crapet-five to 15 feet deep. Check-in with Hammond's Crapet minnows 89 percent of a dozen.

Trout on the Chattahoochee River are biting in the river and mountains.

We have had enough rain this year to improve the trout in the WMA.

The Chattahoochee River for the week early to beat the float transport. Use Rooster Tails or live earthworms (in so far as is legally possible).

Skipper Dies

Washington skipper dies of injuries suffered on board fishing boat

The skipper of a 73-foot commercial fishing boat has died from injuries suffered in an accident on board the vessel.

The U.S. Coast Guard was summoned to the "Swell Rider" at about 5 p.m. Friday after Keenan Stearns , 50, of South Bend, Wash., became entangled in fishing gear, while fishing about 15 miles west of Gray's Harbor, said U.S. Coast Guard spokesman Kelly Parker. The crew was able to free him.

The Coast Guard transported Stearns by helicopter to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Capsized Fishing Boat-Pair Rescued

Pair rescued from capsized fishing boat

Elizabeth City, N.C. — The Coast Guard rescued two men Monday near Great Island in Pamlico Sound after the 34-foot fishing vessel they were aboard capsized, authorities said.

The Coast Guard received an emergency signal Sunday evening from the fishing vessel Claudia Jean. Authorities confirmed the ship was shrimping in the sound, but they weren't able to contact the ship.

A rescue helicopter crew from the Coast Guard Air Station in Elizabeth City located two men clinging to the hull of their overturned boat. Both were hoisted aboard the helicopter and taken to the air station in good condition, authorities said.

Fishing/hunting report

Barrett: The 137 anglers checked reported 1,566 bass, 43 bluegill and 11 crappie. Open to catch-and-release fishing and barbless hooks only every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. Reservations for August available through Ticketmaster tonight at 7 by calling (619) 220-8497 or www.ticketmaster.com . Chollas: Open daily to youngsters 15 and under. San Diego Fly Fishers sponsors a Lend-A-Rod program on Sundays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., and it includes free bait and tackle and fishing tips.

Cuyamaca: Open daily.

Diamond Valley Lake: Still getting reports from bass anglers about 30-bass days. And striped bass action has been good for bigger fish. Russell Nievar, Anza, 20-pound striped bass, swimbait. John Balderson, Sage, 20-0 striped bass, swimbait. George Delgado, Temecula, 18-pound striper, swimbait. Eddie Martinez, Fontana, 12.5-pound striped bass, Fish Taco lure, East Dam. Trout fishing has been slow, with most of the fish being caught in water 20 to 30 feet deep. Michael Wolf, Redondo Beach, two trout, with a 5-pounder topping the catch. Open daily. Launch ramp closed until further notice.

Dixon: Night fishing here every Thursday and Friday. Another 1,000 pounds of channel catfish added this week. Shoreline fishing is permitted until 11:45 p.m. on Thursday and Friday. Night boats may be rented starting at 5 p.m., but must be returned to the dock by 10:45 p.m. Boats are half price. There will be a limited amount of shoreline to fish after the park closes. Open daily.

El Capitan: Anglers reported catching and releasing 42 bass, keeping one bass, 28 bluegill, 3 blue catfish and 1 channel catfish. Fishing and water activities permitted Thursdays through Saturdays, with Sundays reserved for water contact only. Fishing only on Mondays. Water contact activities include water-skiing, wake-boarding, Jet Skis, towing inflatables. All persons entering reservoir property must purchase a day use permit.

Henshaw: Catfish action best here, but there is plenty of other good fishing for largemouth bass, crappie and bluegill. Lance Molina, La Jolla Indian Reservation, 5-pound channel catfish, shrimp, Rocky Point. Bluegill action also picking up. John Lowell and his son, Jared, Temecula, 25 bluegill, best a 1-pounder, and John also caught a 4-pound largemouth bass. Bill Meyers, San Diego, 12 bluegill, most a half-pound. Crappie also active. Lee Doss, San Diego, 12, most in the half-pound range. Darrel Langley, Mesa Grande, two bass, a 6.25-pounder and a 5.5-pounder. Open daily, Friday and Saturday for night fishing.

Hodges: The 227 anglers checked reported 1 bass kept (288 bass released), 25 channel catfish, 7 crappie and 1 blue catfish. Tim O'Connor, Santee, 8.20 blue catfish and 5.05 bass (released), crawdads, Boat Dock. Tom Leedom and Brian Kowalski, 5 bass (released), 11.30 with a 4.07, spinnerbaits, all over. All private boats must be inspected for quagga mussels prior to being launched. Open Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday.

Jennings: Best catfish action in Hermit Cove on Friday and then moved to the Floating Boathouse on Saturday. Redear sunfish being caught on meal worms, wax worms and most in 15 feet of water. Open Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Friday and Saturday until 11:30 p.m. for night fishing. Check www.lakejennings.org for more information.

Loveland: The 86 fishermen reported 9 bass (all released), 64 bluegill, 7 carp and 4 channel catfish. Open daily to hike-in fishing only on a limited area of shoreline. No permits required. Fishing license is required. New 140-foot fishing pier open on the west side of the fishing cove.

Miramar: The 104 anglers checked reported 45 bass (all released), 36 bluegill, 5 channel catfish and 6 carp. Open daily to fishing and boating. Pay fees at iron ranger or electronic pay station near the concession building.

Morena: Open daily.

Murray: The 66 anglers checked reported 1 bass kept (23 bass released), 7 bluegill and 3 channel catfish. Open daily to fishing and boating. Pay fees at iron rangers near the abandoned concession building or at key access points.

Otay, Lower: The 214 anglers checked reported 8 bass kept (174 bass released), 583 bluegill, 11 channel catfish. Lonnie Wheaton, Lakeside, 9.20 bass (released), crawdad, Otay Arm. Cecil L. Brookins, San Diego, 2.30 bluegill, wax worm, Harvey Arm. Open Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. Pay fees at iron rangers near the boat launch and abandoned concession building. Boat rentals available.

Otay, Upper: The 7 anglers checked reported 26 bass (all released). Open Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday for fishing, sunrise to sunset. Upper Otay is a catch and release only fishery. Bait is not permitted, only artificial lures with barbless hooks. Boats are not permitted on Upper Otay, only shore fishing, waders and float tubes.

Poway: Fair bass fishing, with bigger ones still showing and chasing shad. Catfish action good at night. Aida Brown, 11-0 channel catfish, mackerel, Log Boom. Danielle Washington, San Diego, 8-0 channel catfish. Robert Bosco, El Cajon, 1.25 redear sunfish, micro jig, Hidden Bay. Night fishing here every Friday and Saturday. The Lake Poway Midnight Catfish Craze is Friday, July 31, 4 p.m. to midnight. Tickets available soon at the Lake Poway Grill & Tackle. Motorboat sales will start at 3 p.m. Friday, July 31 on a first-come, first-serve basis. The Lake will be closed for boating and fishing Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. to allow the staff to prepare for the event. Open Wednesday through Sunday. In order to prevent the introduction and infestation of quagga mussels, the following items are prohibited at Lake Poway: float tubes, private motors and anchors, live bait containers, fish finders, floating catch baskets, live bait from any source other than the Lake Poway concession, any items the staff considers to be potential contaminants.

Santee Lakes: Cameron Balough, 16, Santee, 9-4 bass, night crawler, Lake 4. Kenny Heier, 15, Santee, 5-8 bass, night crawler, Lake 4. Nice, early morning bite on catfish in Lakes 2, 3 and 4. Next night fishing event set for Thursday. Lakes 1 through 4 open until 11:30 p.m. Check www.santeelakes.com . Open daily.

San Vicente: Closed. For construction schedules and information on the Emergency Storage Project, go to the San Diego County Water Authority's web site at www.sdcwa.org and click on San Vicente Dam Raise.

Skinner: Very good catfish action here, with fish up to 8 pounds reported. Stripers still hitting and most active near the dam and inlet. Bluegill bite is steady, with afternoon fishing best from a bobber and with small pieces of night crawlers, meal worms or wax worms doing the trick. Vic Lawrence, Moreno Valley, 6 channel catfish, best a 8-pounder, chicken liver, Ramp No. 2.

Sutherland: The 54 anglers checked reported 2 bass kept (84 bass released), 30 crappie, 14 channel catfish and 18 carp. Vic Williams, Ramona, 21.10 blue catfish (released), jig. Zack Balcone, 8, Mesa Grande, 2 carp, 19.20 with a 10.55. Sydney Honadle, 7, Ramona, 12.50 carp, bread. Kenny Morytko, Ramona, 10.70 carp, bread. Mark Dodson, San Diego, 7.00 bass (released), crawdad. Greg LeRoy, Ramona, 6.25 bass (released), shiner. Del Lambert, Ramona, 5.45 bass (released). All boats must be inspected for quagga mussels prior to entering the lake. Open Saturday and Sunday for fishing and boating, Monday for shoreline fishing only.

Sweetwater: The 31 anglers reported 4 bass (all released), 1 carp. Open Saturday, Sunday and Monday to limited shoreline fishing only.

Wohlford: Due for another 1,000 pounds of channel catfish tomorrow. And will get catfish stocked every other week until mid-August. Be sure to drop by the Ranger Station for the dougbait recipe that works great for catfish and carp. Good bass fishing early and late. Catfishing has been very good. Robert Adams, Escondido, limit of channel catfish, with a best at 2-15, chicken liver, Oakvale Cove. Crappie fishing also fair. Each month Whopper Contest winners in 4 categories are awarded a free fishing and boating permit. Check www.wohlfordlake.com . Whopper Contest winners for June were: Promoane Souvannakhot, 10-10 bass; Homer Gray, 1-14 crappie; Alan Solis, 4-4 channel catfish. Felix Lopez leads the July Whopper Contest for trout with a 2-10 rainbow. Open daily. Ban on private boats remains in place due to the threat of quagga mussels. Other banned equipment include canoes, kayaks, float tubes, trolling motors, fish finders, anchors, etc. Rental boats available. Open daily.

Catfish stocking schedule: Wohlford and Dixon, each with 1,000 pounds. Poway, 1,000 pounds.

Pt. Loma Sportfishing, H&M Landing, Fisherman's Landing: 100 anglers, five 1-½-day boats: 138 albacore, 22 yellowtail, 8 bluefin; 41 anglers, two three-quarter day boats: 83 calico bass, 200 sand bass, 2 white seabass, 8 barracuda, 31 sculpin; 119 anglers, three half-day boats: 282 calico bass, 5 sand bass, 4 barracuda, 20 rockfish.

Seaforth: 16 anglers, one 1-½-day boat: 6 albacore, 1 yellowtail. 3 anglers, one three-quarter day boat: 1 white seabass, 15 barracuda, 14 sand bass. 116 anglers, five half-day boats: 165 barracuda, 291 calico bass, 2 sand bass, 34 rockfish, 1 sculpin. 28 anglers, one twilight boat: 21 calico bass, 28 rockfish, 37 mackerel.

Oceanside: 19 anglers, one three-quarter day boat: 5 sand bass, 17 calico bass, 1 sheephead, 10 rockfish; 20 anglers, one half-day boat: 2 sand bass, 24 calico bass; 8 anglers, one charter boat: 4 blue sharks, 1 mako shark.

Overview: Good action for calicos, sand bass, with halibut and white seabass also showing locally. Jumbo squid popping up in La Jolla. Here's a report from Larry Laumann: “It's not often that you get to play with live Humboldt squid and watch them gliding around in a tidepool! Each year, we may see a couple of them washed up (dead) on the beach in the spring/summer, but, this is a rare event to capture them alive from the beach. Well . . . at least I've never done it before, and I've spent the last 30 years around California's beaches. I believe that a large school of them just got trapped in our warm water after that very cold upwelling current from La Jolla canyon last week. Normally they live 500-to 2,000 feet deep in the ocean canyons. They get weak and disoriented in the shallows where the water is too warm for them to survive, and they end up drifting in eventually, usually dead. I caught these ten live Humboldt squid in the shallows near Windansea beach and carried them to a big tidepool nearby to watch them swim. They were in various states of health, but all were alive. These things can be vicious if they get hold of you. I was goofing around swimming with them, and ended up with some cheesegrated areas on my legs and feet where they latched a tentacle and I pulled them off – apparently they have tiny hooks in their suction cups! Now I know. This happened in summer 2009 about a block from my place.”

East Cape: Yellowfin tuna up to 40 pounds chasing porpoise. Dorado starting to school closer to shore with fish in the 5-to 30-pound range. Striped marlin and sailfish spread out, but fairly line shy. Roosterfish continue to thrill inshore anglers. Also pargo up to 25 pounds and jack crevalle both hitting. Anglers of the week: Richard "Cass" Castenada from Cass Tours, and Mike Chavira, both from Placentia Calif., two days fishing on El Guapo, 25 jack crevalle released, 4 pompano to 12 pounds, two dorado, two pargo to 15 pounds, two yellowfin tuna, two roosterfish in the 60-to 70-pound range.

La Paz: Dorado, yellowfin and wahoo spiking the action here. The wahoo bite surprised all with fish in the 25-to 50-pound range nailing lures on the troll and on the pitch. Jonathan Roldan of Tailhunters International said clients were into schools of dorado so thick that two fish actually jumped in the boat. One guy was hit in the back by one jumping dorado as he was hooked up and fighting another. Roosterfish, marlin and sailfish also showing in what has been a tremendous run of fishing off La Paz. Ryan Hershey, Colorado, hooked an estimated 700-pound blue marlin. Barry Wood, Orange, had on an estimated 400-pounder before it spooled him.

Cabo San Lucas: Fair fishing for striped marlin, with about half the boats getting a billfish. Ed Zieralski: (619) 293-1225; ed.zieralski@uniontrib.com

Largemouth Bass-World record breaks

World record breaks by Japanese angler

Manabu Kurita pulled in a mammoth 22-pound, 5-ounce largemouth bass in Japan on July 2, possibly tying a 77-year-old world record.

Photo courtesy of BassMaster.com

1 of 1 View Larger

News has surfaced of a possible new world record largemouth bass that was caught in Japan.

Manabu Kurita, a 32-year-old Japanese bass fisherman, reportedly landed a largemouth bass that weighed 22 pounds, 5 ounces on July 2 at Lake Biwa.

What makes this catch interesting is that although he has submitted it to the International Gamefish Association (IGFA), regulations for record fish weighing less than 25 pounds must weigh at least two ounces more than the existing record.

The existing record of 77 years caught by George Perry stands at 22 pounds, 4 ounces. As far as the record books go, Manubu Kurita’s catch would tie the current record if it’s certified.

I’m not sure what’s worse, catching a fish just short of a world record, or tying the current record.

Delta

Wind has made it hard on some anglers seeking out a top-water bite combined with the cooler mornings we have had lately.
Those doing well for bass are using spinnerbaits and buzz baits. With all the boat traffic recently on the Delta, most anglers have chosen to stay home. Fishing off the bank is good for catfish and panfish.

Bluegill and crappie can be found near either brush piles or docks. Try using small worms or minnows under a bobber. For catfish, any of the traditional catfish baits are working well while fished off the bottom.

New Melones Lake

Kokanee catches continue to keep anglers busy as trout fishing has slowed down for the summer. Anglers catching kokanee are fishing the dam area and can be found between 40-50 feet deep.

Bass fishing is still good for anglers tossing rattle traps and spinnerbaits. Catfishing has really started to pick up for a lot of anglers fishing the night just about anywhere on the lake. The bluegill and panfish bite has been fair to good for those fishing the backs of brushy coves.

Lake Don Pedro

There is a good bite for largemouth bass. Dragging plastics down to 30 feet has been effective.

Most anglers searching for trout, kokanee, or salmon are heading to New Melones as the bite is wide open just a few miles away.

Lake Pardee

The summer season is a great time to fish Lake Pardee, especially for smallmouth bass.

A favorite technique on mine is the use of crickets for smallmouth bass. Fished either on the bottom or drug-in and round underwater rock piles almost always provide action.

If choosing to use artificials, the early-morning, top-water bite often is very good, and the mid-day jig bite around submersed islands is also another great choice.

Either way, Lake Pardee is a beautiful lake, which is a true fishing lake only. No personal watercrafts and body contact with the water are allowed.

Lake Camanche

The bite is really good for those fishing for bluegill and bass. Bass are being caught right now just about anywhere on the lake, with rocky points being the best spots.

Lures that are being used are spinnerbaits and crankbaits, while the bigger fish are being caught by those dragging plastics along the bottom.

Bluegills are being caught shallow by those fishing with red worms in the backs of bays.

Lake Amador

Most of the fishing is taking place during the night.

Very few anglers are fishing the lake during the daytime. Anglers are currently catching bass, catfish, crappie, bluegill, and a few trout all while fishing through the night.

Boaters Needed

On July 19, the 11th annual Conroy Oakley Pro-Teen Tournament will be held out of Russo’s Marina on Bethel Island.

The purpose of the event is to introduce teens 13 to 19 years old to fishing through a professional style tournament where they will be paired up with a boater for six hours.

Currently they are in need of more boaters for the event, boater’s fish for free, for more information call (925) 684-9775.

Tip of the Week

I’ve made the mistake more than once of overpaying for launch fees while fishing a new body of water. Most launches vary in price; it’s often worth the effort to research prices of the various launch facilities before venturing out.