11-23 Huntington Harbor - Float Tube Run

Date - Fishing Time: 11/23/18 – 6:45 am – 11:15 am
Location / Launch Location: Huntington Harbor, Seabridge Park
Total Fish Caught: 7 Spotted Bay Bass
Bait Used (No of fish): HUB – Red Crab (3), Not HUB – Chovy (4)

Solo session

Water was once again beautiful with very little wind. Traffic in the water was heavier than normal but nowhere near what I thought.
Goals – Primary goal today was to try out my new bait. In two different configurations that I made up. Secondary goal was to continue trying to “back hand” skip or cast in the direction of the back of my hand. This is going to take a while to time and get the method down.

Next Goal for sure – Need to get better at handling the fish. I am starting to bleed now when they are shaking and trying to get loose.

Report – Ended up being able to hit the water this morning after my plans cleared up and shopping was done on Thanksgiving itself. Went around the main channel thinking that with the steep outgoing tide I would be able to kick in much easier and hopefully that current would stir up the fish a bit in the main area. Not sure if I was right or not but I caught slightly higher than my average at seven fish. Used my new baits today, I am very happy with them and will be perfecting my process of making my own baits with days like today in testing.

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That was a nice morning on the water. I look forward to the fish handeling detail you come up with.

Thanks for sharing.

I'd like to know what it is that you come up with also.

For me:

In general ... I try not to handle the fish too much.
I will lift them up on my lap board by means of lifting up the leader line above the fish.
I get the fish to calm down and take it's photo.
While the fish is laying on the tray, I use the tray to push against in order to remove the set hook.
I will normally cup the fish with both hands and toss it 5-10 feet away from my float tube.

I always cup and splash saltwater in order to wet my lap tray before placing the fish on the board.
I can CPR a fish in approx 10 to 15 seconds.
The ornery fighters that just wont surrender ... I will hold down with one hand while taking their pic and it will usually be released within 15 to 20 seconds. Note: Always be aware of where the point of the hook is at all times!

SP Dan <"))><