I almost learned the hard way. Maybe 40 years ago, I was out with two friends on a very large reseviore in Colorado. We were on a 12ft skiff with a 10hp motor. The weather changed and the water got really choppy. Long story short... we were swamped by a wave and the boat flipped. Needless to say, no PFD'S. We were treading for what seemed like an eternity. Next thing ya know, here comes a guy on a wind surfer. We were able to get the one friend (who panicked), on top the board, myself and the other friend held onto the sides. Fortunately one of the surfers went in and called rescue while the other came to us. Once the rescue boat got us on board, I totally stripped naked. Modesty went right out the window (it was freezing). We got to the hospital and the chart on the wall (with our names), listed the water at 35°. I left the hospital that day (they said, because I got the wet clothes off). One friend stayed over night and the other about 5 days. We are lucky to be alive. That was the last time I ever went out in the water without a PFD. I learned the hard way. I hope none of you ever have to.
Sorry for the novel, but I didn't know how to condense it, lol.
I would say, Strawberry Grouper.
The older ones did have a lifetime warrenty. The new ones (GX2) have a seven year warrenty. Still good though. I've been using Ugly Sticks all my life and only broke one. Got slammed in a car door, and they replaced it right away. Hopefully they will tell you to just take it somewhere local to replace it. Good luck.
Debsstaycation wrote:
My name is Debbie. I am new to this form, but not new to fishing. Recently moved to the house on the water and able to enjoy daily fishing!!
Welcome Debbie, Sounds like the life of royality! Lol. Tight lines!
Lol! I know what you mean about that shrimp and mullet. I'm hungry for some now! I'm definitly going to have to go there. I really need to catch some mullet and smoke my own. 🤤😋
So do you ever use this baits on the Courtney? Every time I pass the fishing turnoff right before the eastbound "hump", I start wishing I was there. Lol.
Thanks FinFisherman, do you find live bait or lures work better in this area? I've used only live bait in the gulf, when I fished more, but again... that was years ago. I think I am going to try a couple of local ponds in my neighborhood as well. I've been hearing of some nice Largemouth being caught there.
Is that the one with the Elvis statue in front, for the mullet and Shrimp?
Thanks all! I really appreciate the welcome and advice. Tight lines!
Hey, I've been fishing almost 40 years, but have only been out once in the last 10. My son took me out a couple of months ago and the bug got me again. I'm in Clearwater, Fl so I think I might try the Safety Harbor Pier or Courtney Campbell Causeway. I'm rusty, so I'm going to start small. Glad to have found this site and happy to be here.