Florida Keys

Are You Licensed?

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North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries requires everyone who wants to fish on the Outer Banks to obtain a coastal recreational fishing license and become familiar with the rules that govern bag and creel limits.

All anglers are required to hold a fishing license if they intend to fish on any beach, bridge or private sound side pier in our local waters. It also applies to whether the angler chooses to fish in salt or fresh water sounds, lakes or ponds. And in some cases, fishing on different sides of a bridge could mean two different licenses – fresh water on one side verses salt water license on the other.

There are some license exceptions but basically, most anglers over the age of sixteen must purchase one before they wet a line. For more exceptions, see the NCDMF web site or check with a local tackle shop.

All ocean piers carry a blanket license that covers everyone who fishes on their pier. Keep in mind that sound side piers may not carry that same license so the angler needs to check with the pier’s owner.

Fishing licenses can be purchased at all tackle shops, pier houses and many small and large retail shops along the Outer Banks as well as on line. The fees are nominal price to help maintain our world class fishery.

Bag and creel limits are also an important component to maintain our fishery. These rules indicate the minimum size and sometimes the maximum size and the number of a specific species the angler can keep.  Pier staff and most local anglers can help with these rules in the field but it is extremely important to know the rules completely.

A copy of the bag and creel limits can be obtained at most locations around the Outer Banks. A copy can also be found on the tab “Fishing Regulations” on the Walkingangler.com web site.

For a complete list of the rules and regulations, you can check with the authorities at NCDMF.gov.

Until next time – Tightlines – Capt. Tony

Preparation is One Important Key

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There are many unique conditions an angler must consider when fishing in the Florida Keys.  And whether you are an experienced or a novice angler, or fishing in a familiar location or a strange one or even targeting a prey you have caught before, there are several keys you need to consider to even marginally achieve success.

Preparation is one of the many steps to a successful fishing strategy. And one of the key steps of this strategy is to know your prey and their comfort zone or environment. And how outside influences affect them.img_6246

Most fish species don’t achieve longevity or size by being fooled easily. Their environment is one of familiarity. And any unusual or unnatural condition raises a concern for their safety.

All natural underwater environments contain certain sounds and vibrations. These sounds can originate from structure, feeding activities, travel of other aquatic and non-aquatic sources or just a natural flow of above ground vibrations from greenspaces or surface encumbrances.

So the anglers first step of preparation is to know how each of the discussed conditions affect the species you’re targeting in their underwater environment.

Anglers should also know feeding patterns, temperature preferences, travel highways and how tidal changes affect your target.

One component not discussed but must be considered: How will your presence affect your prey when fishing from the shore or boat?

Most anglers just grab a rod and bait bucket and head to the nearest bridge or pier and expect a great catch. Sometimes this works but others times especially in aggressively fished areas where your prey is wise to anything unusual, preparation is the key.

Tackle shops are a great resource. But the best strategy is to study your prey and develop a comprehensive strategy. It will definitely improve your catches.

A good friend once told me, “More fish are caught the night before”.

Until next time – Tightlines. Capt. Tony

Discount Tackle is no Bargain

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There is no sign that gets an anglers attention more than a sign that reads, “Discount Tackle”.

Many anglers have experienced the consequences of using “discount gear” at least once in their lives. And most smart anglers will try to steer as far away from places that sell discount tackle.IMG_1972

But there are many anglers who will still use anything they can to just wet a line. And they do this at the expense of losing that fish or having a disappointing experience.

Discount tackle can be typically found in most “big-box” stores and on the shelves of many small variety shops. And the quality of the tackle can be different depending on where you shop.

Many of the big box retailers will purchase large amounts of specific tackle because it can be purchased in volume and at a discount. By buying in volume and at a low price, they are able to sell it to the anglers at discount. But anglers should keep in mind that just because there is a large variety of inexpensive tackle doesn’t mean it is quality gear. Buying quality tackle at a discount store can be done but it requires a smart angler.

I have found that discount tackle from the big box stores has an overall lesser quality. Anglers may find some high quality gear there but overall they will have trouble differentiating the good from the poor quality. And the worst thing that can happen when you use less than quality gear, is that you lose your fish. And become frustrated when using something that doesn’t work well or last through the season.

When I purchase tackle and fishing gear, I always head to my local tackle shop, marina or pier house. I might pay a little more but the quality is always top notch. Ironically, if you price the tackle at big box and local tackle shops, prices are going to be the same or close to it.

Now the best advantage to shopping at our local tackle shops is the professional advice. Not only are you getting the best gear and tackle for specific species but also the proper techniques, times to go and the best place to fish. So when time is short, you can’t waste time trying to find a great spot. Let the tackle shop professionals do the homework for you – they will help put you on the fish “QUICK”.

So the next time you see a sign that reads, “Discount Tackle”, and you want to take a chance, then go ahead and shop. But if you are more serious about catching fish, do yourself a favor and pass it by and head to your local tackle shop. You will not regret that choice.

On the Outer Banks there are many shops to choose from and each one will gladly help you make that fishing memory.

Until next time – Tightlines. Capt. Tony