April 20, 2014, marks four years since BP’s Macondo well in the Gulf of Mexico blew out, destroying the Deepwater Horizon drilling rig, killing eleven workers and setting off an uncontrolled oil gusher lasting eighty-seven days.Alabama Gulf Coast Edition
The Redfish as a sport fish and to a lesser extent a “food fish” has gained far more popularity than the Florida Wildlife Commission (FWC) predicted years back when it declared it a “restrictive” species.Big Bend Edition
Of all the ways that the increasing human population has fundamentally changed Earth, the one that is equally apparent from … Florida Oceanographic Society
Those of us living on the Gulf Coast know our lives are distinctly intertwined with the great body of water to the south. Most of our recreation, food and the way we make a living are connected to the Gulf. However, we don’t always have time stop and consider the vastness of this incredible place we call home. This large marine ecosystem provides a home to creatures many of us have never seen in person, for example, whale sharks. Whale sharks— those spotted gentle giants that feed on fish eggs and plankton—are one of the Gulf’s most unique creatures. Whale sharks are the largest fish in the world, and although the Gulf is home to a number of them, little is known about their behavior in the Gulf. Ocean Conservancy interviewed Dr. Eric Hoffmayer, a preeminent whale shark expert and research fishery biologist with the National Marine Fisheries Service, to find out more about this fascinating fish and what research is needed to ensure their protection.Alabama Gulf Coast Edition
For those looking to take fly fishing for trout to a whole new level, consider mousing. Mousing refers to fishing for trout with large topwater patterns meant to mimic small rodents. It is a tactic best utilized at night, when nocturnal rodents forage.Editorial Staff
I prefer pompano rigs with two hooks and a 1- to 3-ounce pyramid sinker as the anchor. Pyramid sinkers dig deeper into the sand than bell or barrel types and should be just heavy enough to prevent your rig from walking back to shore. Keep a few different weights at your disposal and adjust accordingly.Chris Beardsley