By: Jessica Hendrie
September is a special month for me! It’s my birthday month and you know what that means? Another excuse to go fishing! This year, we are going to set sail in the beautiful waters of Islamorada with a goal target of the one and only swordfish. Maybe I can get away with trying to get my first bonefish, too! I’ve caught swordfish before but they’ve all been small. Still, there’s no feeling like bringing one to the boat. I hope this is the year that I set a personal best swordfish catch. Have you ever been swordfishing? It’s not just your average day on the water. Most will get sick, get bored, you name it. But those who know, know! It’s a serious game of patience and the right gear, and a little bit of faith. From the rigging of baits with glow sticks to choosing the right reel that can handle the deep drop, the details matter. There’s something special about chasing swordfish. They’re not fast and flashy like a wahoo or sailfish. It’s deep. It’s quiet. These fish dwell thousands of feet down and pulling one up from the dark is just a whole other level. One trip, I fought a swordfish for 2 hours, only for it to be too small to keep. Yeah, I know what you’re thinking. But I’m still getting to tell people about it so a win is a win. Back to my birthday, every September, I like to reflect on where I’m at in life and somehow, swordfishing has become part of that tradition. It’s like a gift to myself, a reminder to keep chasing the big ones, in the water and in life. One of the best parts about this tradition is sharing it with my family and friends. So, whether I land my goal sword or not this month, I know I’ll come back with something valuable. Maybe a new trick or story. or maybe just memories. But if I do, you’ll definitely hear about it next month. Happy Fishing!