As Summer approaches, the waterways will become increasingly more crowded. Being on the water (even if you are not fishing) is great fun. However, heavy boat traffic can negatively impact fishing. So, in the Summer, I tend to fish very early in the morning or late in the evening. This keeps me out of the heat of the day and in optimal fishing conditions.
Recently, Elliott (my son) and David (my brother) joined me for an early morning fishing trip. We launched the skiff well before the sun cleared the tree line. The air was crisp and a bit cool. It made for a chilly run to our first fishing location (a large submerged oyster bar). The tide was falling and formed a current seam as it passed over the bar. As I positioned the skiff (using the trolling motor), we saw Trout busting baitfish in the seam. Elliott and David cast Chug Bug poppers into the current seam and were rewarded with crushing strikes from hungry Trout. As they were fighting their fish, I cast a Lucky Craft Sammy into the current seam. After a few iterations of a twitch and pause retrieve, my lure was inhaled but a slot-size Redfish. The sunrise was magnificent. The top water bite was even better.
After photographing and releasing the fish, the three of us took a moment to appreciate the new day. We exchanged no words. We simply looked at one another, nodded and smiled. Over the years, I have come to realize that fishing is not about catching fish. It is about the experience you share with your family and friends. Summer is almost here. So, gather your family and friends and go fishing. You will be rewarded with a lifetime of memories and that is the best catch of all.