A rush of foul weather (foul by local standards) cut some time from the planned fishing but enjoyed a successful trip none the less.
Met and shared a boat with Capt. Jason Stock – an excellent guide; knowledgable, energetic and skilled. If you like to sight fish in shallow water via kayak or wading Capt. Stock is a specialist. He can use any tackle you prefer – spin or fly – and if you want to cast from the bow of his skiff he can do that, too. Call him at (727) 459-5899 or go to www.jmsnookykayakcharters.com. You won’t be sorry.
Enjoyed a stop (and the fishing) at Ft. De Soto Park, 1,136 acres of sand, water, mangroves, beach and history that sits at the point of Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. A beautiful spot. Clean facilities, nice people and a splendid campground. The fishing, too, is pretty darn good. The highway toll park entry fee is 35 cents. It must be the best deal in town. Find out everything you need to know at www.pinellascounty.org/parks.
If you’re seeking local fishing information call the folks at The Bait Bucket where the slogan is “Our Shrimp Guaranteed to Catch Fish or Die Trying.” (727) 864-2108.
We stayed at the Ram Sea II condo. Nice place. Nice people. Part of JC Resort Condominiums. Info at 1-800-535-7776.
And thanks to Bill AuCoin (that’s him with the fly rod) for helping put everything together. Bill’s a pro (and a nice man). The type of gentleman you like to work with.
By the way, the guy in the kayak is Bryan Hendricks, an excellent scribe who keeps readers of The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette www.arkansasonline.com up to date on all things outdoors in The Natural State. Doesn’t he look happy?
The Outdoor Notebook 