CAPTAIN JUDY HELMEY
"Kicking Fish Tail Since 1956"
POB 30771
SAVANNAH, GEORGIA 31410
912 897 4921
912 897 3460 FAX
November 24, 2003
Miss Judy Charters wishes everyone a "HAPPY THANKSGIVING" (May all your turkeys have big scales)
SING UP NOW FOR THE INSHORE FISHING CLINIC 2004 (start the year off right)
We are now taking reservations for January 17, 2004 inshore fishing clinic. The fee is $75.00 per fisherman. This price includes breakfast and lunch.
Captain Judy's College of fishing Knowledge will start on February 14, 2004. The second date will be February 21, 2003. All classes will be held at Tubby's Tank house Seminar Room starting at 8:00AM till 3:00PM. The cost per fisherman is $120.00. (Only 30 fishermen per class) This amount includes breakfast, lunch, class, and tackle kit. We have acquired quite a few donations from different tackle companies. All donations will be raffled off at seminar. (There is no charge for raffle tickets) For more detail please check out web site or give me a call at 912 897 4921 or 912 897 2478. We are now taking reservations for both classes…
We still have a few openings for December 6 and December 13, 2003 inshore fishing clinic.
Now for the fishing report!
INSHORE
A Little Wind and difficult water clarity can't even stop our FISH!
The inshore fishing has been great. I have heard all sorts of complaints from the wind blowing too much to the water clarity being a little off. However, these two little set backs haven't seem to stop the fish from being brought to the dock. There have been increasing amounts of big spot tail bass being caught and released in the over 23 inch range. I have had fishermen stop by my dock with plenty of "bragging rights!" I think it's great that the sport and the sportsman are coming together in one big package. I know for a fact that fishermen have realized that if we don't practice more catch and release we are going to be like other areas, which have "NO FISH PERIOD!" Here's the way I look at it. What area can you go to fish that's this easy? You know I have an answer or I wouldn't have asked. We have great creeks, rivers, and sounds that are gratefully holding not only fish, but also bait. Our resource for fish is unbelievable. When one type of fish doesn't bite we can just move on the some other species.
Let's Fish Night and Day!
I have received reports from both day and night time fishermen. Apparently for those fishermen that don't get enough daytime fishing, there is always the night. For those that want to try nighttime fishing go where the lights are. I have always just fished under the lights that we have on our dock, but for those that don't have a dock here are a few suggestions. While fishing during the day time look for any public docks that have large lights extended over the water area. Most public boat ramps have a floating dock and lights to boot. Some bridges have some lightning, which also makes for a good spot. Large marinas usually have lots of great lightning, which usually partially covers parts of the surrounding water's surface. Believe me all type of fish both big and small are attracted to the light.
Hydro Glow Fish Lights are proven by many to really work! The light that is produced attracts both small and large fish. We put this light about 3 feet deep at my dock and basically waited for fish visitors of which we got many. A friend of mine, Darrell Keith owns and operates HYDRO GLOW FISH LIGHTS. Check out his web site www.hydroglow.com. Once used this is not a product that needs an introduction. In fact you won't want to tell others, because then they also will be able to catch as many fish as you. Purchased yourself one of these lights and you won't have to fish under someone else's light. You will be able to fish at night when and where you wish!
"What's Next on the Inshore Docket?"
The near shore winter Sheepshead season is getting close. The completed migration hasn't fully taken place. However, as you read this Sheepshead are moving to their winter spots. More to come on bait, location, and habits of this hard to catch fish!
OFFSHORE
ARTIFICIAL REEFS
A fish's stomachs and it's contents!
The artificial reefs continue not be the place to score lots of king mackerel. As of last week, there weren't any significant bait build up in these areas. In fact they were considered once again "BAIT FREE!" However, there were a few reports of schooling surface bait, which didn't seem to be at all interested in any gold hook bait rigs that were thrown at them. It all boils down to the fact that the bait that was available was much too small to catch. Over the years I have noticed especially in these areas that after observing the stomach contents of caught bottom fish I am quite surprised. Their stomachs are usually filled to the brim with small juvenile cigar minnows. In fact most of the time they are so full that the acids aren't strong enough to start the break down process. Quite often the small fish exsumed is reusable as bait on our hooks. I know all of this might sounds a little overboard, but it does work and quite well. Another bait that is removed is usually what I call "Krill." Better known by me as "Baby Shrimp." At least that's what I call them. They aren't baby shrimp, but they sure look like them. The shrimp are too small to use on a hook and are usually pretty mushy. Not only is the stomach cavity full, but also the gills and the back of the throat. Upon thinking about it I really don't know how the fish survives it's own feeding frenzy!
Big Spot tail Bass
Large spot tail bass are being seen schooling at the artificial reefs. Quite often and by mistake we hook a few of these fish, which is not a good thing. Sure the customers enjoy the fight and thrill of catching them, but after I explain the situation to them seeing one is enough for them. These large spot tail bass are our true "Baby Makers" for years to come. The less we handle or hook them the better. During this time of the year they migrate to the offshore water to do their thing. Please don't mess with these wonderful fish. According to the rules and regulation you can't legally keep a spot tail bass, no mater what the size, in federal waters. This rule is confusing to some, because I have been asked a lot about this over the pass few weeks. Don't keep any spot tail bass that you catch, no mater what the size, in federal waters. In other words these fish that you catch at the artificial reefs, which are located offshore should be released unharmed immediately.
Savannah Snapper Banks
"Blake's Prefect Fishing Style!"
I had a bonus day's bottom fishing at the banks this pasted week. In fact it was most enjoyable. All customers as well as Captain Ali and me were up for it! Our first trip to the banks was a hands down a "slammer day." Dr. Brad Durham, Blake his son (14 year old), and granddad, Travis chartered my boat for a full day of fishing and that's exactly what we all got! We started out with the usual bait hunt, which is fun because you never know exactly what you might catch. After loading up on sand perch, rock bass, ruby red lips, and small vermilion off we went to drag the abyss. We all munched on potato chips as we talked about how beautiful and calm the ocean was. Upon arriving at my said spot, which was in about 110 feet of water we dropped in our bait offerings. I decided to try a little of it all until we figured out what was best to use. I knew that I had experienced fishermen onboard so all types of baits were thrown down. I didn't take but a minute to decide that the fish were here and hungry. I had marked them on the fish finder, but sometimes fish will show, but won't bite. So I didn't really remark too much on the full screen that I was seeing. The first couple of fish were football size vermilion snapper, which pull pretty good for their size. The next was about a 15-pound scamp grouper, which gladly took us up on our bait offering of a "small ruby red lips!" I am going to stop writing about the next fish and just give you the whole list, because it continued to grow as we dropped our baited hooks. Another scamp grouper was caught, then a few nice red snappers, some more football size vermilion and then a bigger red snapper. I must say, "This was the second place I stopped." The first spot was for bait only. We also caught a few large black fish on the bait spot. The drift at the red snapper and grouper spot was very slow, but just enough to give us the bottom movement that we needed. The fish were so stacked up that it was truly amazing. As with all spots they don't last long. However this spot do us well with all catching some nice big bottom fish. The next spot was about 4 miles away and as we ran to it more snacking took place. As I arrived at this spot I slowly drove over the ledge to take a look see. The fish were there in full force. We baited up and dropped in. All immediately started having big hits and double red snapper hook ups. As one of the red snappers was being pulled in I notice a silver flash. I recognized it as being a very large king mackerel. I quickly while tripping over everything including my feet, rigged up a large live vermilion and cast it out. This bait wasn't in the water, but seconds before the big boy took it. I knew it was a big king because I saw it take the bait. Once the king grabbed and ate the bait the fight was on. This fish ran off half a spool of line before I could hand it off. I had picked up Blake's personal king line, which was lock and loaded with a king mackerel rig. The rod and reel was just like one I had used before, but the line was real light. Upon asking the test, Brad remarked, "it's 12 pound test." I can't tell you exactly what I said because the paper would burn up. All this happened in seconds, I was try to hand the double bend rod over to Blake. As Blake took the rod the big king was still swimming to parts unknown. I hurried up to the bridge so as to get ready for the king chase. The 12-pound test line was nearing the bottom of the spool. However, Blake knew just what to do. He adjusted the drag and set his prefect fishing rhythm into action. His past-learned skills enabled him to get full control of the fish by letting it run when it wanted and then making headway when it so-called "rested." I situated the boat so that I could keep the fish on the starboard side of the boat. Captain Ali had not one, but two gaffs in her hand. She was ready. Blake never complained he just reeled and bowed to the fish when necessary. After 27 minutes Blake landed a 45-pound plus king mackerel.
As soon as Captain Ali gaffed it Brad and Ali brought it on board. The rig fell out of its mouth. The treble hook, which was the trailing hook, was situated right in the front bottom "V" of the king's mouth. Had Blake let this fish have any slack what so ever his trophy fish would have been gone. As I told you earlier and I wasn't kidding I had "real experience fishermen on board that day!" Congratulation to goes Blake Durham for his "prefect fishing style!" I truly do love my job!
Upon inspection of the big king we all noticed that there was a large circle 14/0 or bigger hook embedded near the king's gills. The leader material that was tied to the circle hook was in the 200-pound test range. However it didn't stop the fish from breaking it. Just seeing that hook and the leader that was hooked to it may us all know one thing for sure, "Blake Durham is sure good with that light tackle!"
Secret King Rig
I know everyone will be asking what type of rig that I caught the kings on. Here's the breakdown. I am now tying my line end directly to SPRO (size #6 80lb test) power swivel. These swivels are designed to meet the needs of what I call "Fast Fishing." They will fit and work while being pull through the eyes of most all rods. My leader material of which I am attaching to the swivel is 50 lb test wire. I prefer using the bronze colored wire. For the lure or should I say, "the skirt" I am using a pink and white skirt, (King Buster) which is made of plastic. It's small, but it covers the bait just enough to get your targeted fish's attention. The hook design consists of small live bait hook (size 1) with treble hook (size 6 type 4x strong) in tow. I am placing the live bait hook under the chin of the live fish. The treble hook then should be placed in the mid section of the bait on either side. I suggest when making your rig that you keep your treble hook (trailing hook) about 4 inches behind the live bait hook. I have successfully hooked up 4 times and landed all kings in the last couple of trips to the Savannah Snapper Banks. All of my kings were in the 25-pound plus bracket with this last one being what we call a "tournament king." Now that doesn't sound like a lot of hook ups, but I am not really fishing for king mackerel. I am just using this rig when I actually see an opportunity to catch one. I am keeping the rod, reel, rig, and bait ready to bait up at all times while I am bottom fishing. However, I do suggest for those that are going to target kings that you might want to use one of these rigs in your spread. I know that there are many different ways to rig up for the kings. However, this rig is proven to work successfully and I don't intend on changing the design until those other big fish out there make me! Just call me the "OLD FISH READER!"
Using Bottom Fish For More Than One Thing! For those that think bottom fishing is a little boring you might had better read this. As the hooked bottom fish are being pulled to the surface they are sending off distress signals. These signals of which are being pick up by the large king mackerel are definitely what is responsible for giving me the opportunity to get a chance at a big fish. I have been writing about the lack of the right size bait over the past few weeks. This situation only proves that these big fish are hungry and are looking for the prefect meal. As my customers are bottom fishing they are bringing on board with them what I call my "fish attracters." So therefore a 20-pound plus red snapper or grouper is doing several things. Making my customers real happy and bringing on quite a following!
King Mackerel Report
Normally at this time of the year the mackerel bite in on the "Wide Open Mode!" However, this year has been strange one. Most of the kings that we have caught have been in mostly 100 feet of water. Another thing is that most of the ones that we have caught have been of the large size. I have received report of juvenile kings being caught at the artificial reefs and a few "Smokers." However, it's confusing to say the least. According to my records we should be having a bonus year on the kings. They should be holding at the artificial reefs more so than the snapper banks areas. Here's another instance that is sort of unusual. Last week some of the boats that fished the south ledge caught as many as 7 kings, but not sure about the size of these fish. I think that someone needs to do a little herding at this point so as to bring the kings closer to shore.
"Results on the lobster used as bait" Bad Bait News
Unfortunately I don't have anything good to report about the lobster in the bait-using department. I figure since the lobster came from 2,000 feet of water none of our fish recognize it as food. We gave it our best shot using it all kind of different ways. I tried it whole and just the tail section. My only fish encounter was when a fish probably a hungry trigger pecked a hole in the tail section and basically sucked all of the lobster's meat completely out. I notice when I retrieve my bait it seemed kind of light and it was. I had a complete shell, which was hollow. I Talked with Andy Ambos (who gave me the lobsters to try) and told him the bad news. However my bad news to him turned into good news for me. The leftover lobsters were perfectly good to eat. Now I will do with them what they were originally intended for. I can smell the garlic butter that I am going to make right now! Who says, "Bait experimenting isn't fun?"
Gulf Stream
I talked with Luther, "White Knight" and he told me that there were around 7 to 8 boats fishing this past week in the south ledge area. As I convened earlier there were quite a few king mackerel caught during this time. According to Luther's report a few Wahoo and dolphin were also caught.. He had a big Wahoo tail hooked, which didn't last too long, but long enough to identify what they had on the line. Luther saw a sailfish feeding in the Sargasso weed, but it didn't seem to be interested in what he was offering. Just writing this makes me want to go. There has been a lot more talk about fish being caught at the "Deli Ledge." I just if you lucky enough to get the weather then you should go!
For those that want to target "Black Fin Tuna" now is the time. This fish is being caught in The South Ledge, Deli Ledge, Triple ledge and etc. The bottom line with this fish is that where there is bait, there will be fish especially "Black Fin Tuna!" So therefore go for those ledges in 150 plus feet, because you know that they are holding bait. I will have more information on the Tune in next weeks report. I say, "JUST GO!" There is only a few more fishing weeks left in this year.
"Little Miss Judy's Believe It or Not!"
A Thanksgiving story - Brown bag theory
My Aunt Hattie, which was my father older sister always cooked the best Thanksgiving dinner! Her cooking abilities were unbelievable. She could cook along with the help of Bertha, almost anything from scratch. Our Thanksgiving dinners took days to prepare. In fact during my younger years, if I'm not mistaken all ingredients including the bird was raised or grown on her big farm. However, the fruit that she used to make that unbelievable ambrosia was probably purchased from a stand right out there on Highway 17. I know that the pecans that went into this particular dish were picked from the farm, because quite often I helped in the gathering.
Bertha of whom worked with my Aunt for a long as I can remember was always there to help with the cooking bonanza. I was always interesting in how they made everything look so good. Her personally grown vegetables were always the prefect "vegetable color." They baked a coconut cake that was 3 to 6 tears high. It never leaned or anything. The bad news is I wasn't around during the mixing of the cake. I would have loved to lick that bowl.
My aunt had this kitchen utensil that I later called a "child cheater." This reason was a simple one. Whenever I was around while she was baking she used this utensil and it would remove almost all of the tasty ingredients from the walls of the mixing bowl. There was always a little left, which was just enough to get a little taste.
The turkey was always browned to perfection. Her secret was certainly a one of a kind in my book. She cooked the turkey in a brown grocery bag. The bird was put in the bag much like you would have put one in a state of the art "brown in bag." The drums always stuck out a little, but not enough to let them be exposed to direct heat. There was another weird cooking method that I had seen when I was even younger. The turkey was wrapped in a sort of gauze that pretty much look like some source of a bandage. Once cooked this bird also cooked to a golden brown with skin and everything. However, when it was first put in the oven it looked like a real bona-fide turkey mummy.
The food wasn't the only highlight of the Thanksgiving Day. My Aunt Hattie always set the prettiest dinner table I had ever seen. She would always use her best china and silverware for this special occasion. The Table was huge. It would seat at least 10 guests. There were high back chairs with big arms rests. When you sat in them you knew for a fact that you had to be someone special just to be invited. The good news about my Aunt Hattie was that my father and I were always invited. It was a family tradition to spend Thanksgiving Day at her house.
This particular dinner was always served at 2:00PM sharp. You could tell when dinnertime was approaching, because everyone would start showing up. My father and I always arrived early so that we could all watch the televised New York Thanksgiving Parade. It was as I said part of a family tradition.
When it came time to eat everyone was gathered for a prayer. As a small child, I am sorry to admit, I always opened my eyes just to watch what everyone was doing. Most of adults were standing very still with their eyes closed. However, all of us kids basically did the same thing watched and semi-listened as what seemed to be the longest prayer ever said in the world. At least it seemed long to us 7 year olds. At the end of the prayer all adults reached for their chair and proceeded to sit down. The children were all escorted to the kitchen where a special table waited for us, which fit our size perfectly. However, we would always talk about being moved from the kitchen to the big dinner table.
However, now that I think about it when I finally graduated from the kitchen to the main dinning room it wasn't all that I thought it would be. I had to fix my own plate, wait for others to start eating, and definitely try not so spill my tea on the white tablecloth. The food sure didn't taste any different. Don't get me wrong it was still delicious, but somehow it wasn't the same.
This goes to show you that it takes a lifetime to realize that in some instances change and all that implies isn't all that it's cracked up to be! However, I still do miss that "Old Family Tradition!"
"The Old Fish Reader!"
Captain Judy
