Expression of Satisfaction…
Capt. Chris Martin
Bay Flats Lodge

Heavy Red Action with Capt. Harold Dworaczyk, Bay Flats Lodge

The dictionary defines the term “prospecting” as exploring an area, especially for mineral deposits; or to inspect (a region) for mineral deposits. Many coastal anglers have probably adopted a similar meaning for the word, only in a somewhat different context, as they are often required to explore and inspect many different areas and regions on a regular basis while searching for those silver-backed Specks and golden Reds.

More times than not, winds dictate how the fishing is going to work on any given day down here along the coast. That is why it is so very important for anglers to remember to fish the conditions, and not “the spot”. Many may even prospect new locations for each wind condition.

Here’s what I mean: Go to your kitchen pantry, open the door, and take note of the many different varieties of food groups. Now imagine each of the boxes, or cans, as being different varieties of wind conditions (instead of food groups).

As example, while taking inventory of the pantry, you happen to note you’ve four boxes of SSE wind at 3-mph, but only one box of NW wind at 20-mph. If while on your next fishing trip you find you are faced with a NW wind at 20-mph, you only have one box to choose from in the pantry that contains many different varieties.
This situation places a lot of anglers in a sudden state of turmoil as to where to go from there, and many begin second-guessing other available options – all the time not knowing for sure because they have not properly prospected other areas or regions.

Another common example might be that you have been waiting all week to go fishing. You get down to the hotel and awaken at 3:30 am the next morning only to discover that the wind has the palm trees thrashing from side-to-side, and you immediately realize that your favorite fishing spot is undoubtedly blown-out. Or, maybe it’s not blown-out. You may realize your favorite spot is sufficiently protected from a wind coming from this direction, so you pack up the gear and your buddies, and you’re off on your way across the bay, only to discover upon arrival at your favorite spot that another early-riser beat you there, or that someone pitched a tent overnight in order to beat everyone there. There goes your spot – enough said!

This is why it is always a good idea to prospect, remembering never to limit yourself based solely upon those areas which are most familiar to you. Always make it a practice to build wind conditions into many different scenarios (many different varieties).

Now that conditions are getting warmer, we wish to remind everyone not to get too comfortable with the fantastic Spring weather! Yes, it feels good not to be under the confines of several layers of clothes, but this time of year can present drawbacks as well. Remember to protect your arms and legs with long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and protect your exposed skin with an ample of amount of sunscreen during the day. You’ll be glad you did!

Remember to practice CPR, “Catch, Photo, and Release”, whenever possible on trophy Trout and Reds…Guide Chris Martin, Port O’Connor/Seadrift region. www.BayFlatsLodge.com…1-888-677-4868