Capt. Tim Ramsey
Even during COVID, it seems time is at a premium. Only politicians have the luxury of doing nothing and getting paid. Recently, I had to decide to sit, edit, and republish my first two fiction novels, catch-up on some things for other publications, and sell our house in Miami. I lost fishing time, but gained more refined second editions of my books, and spent time with the âFirst Lady of Fishing.â I lost, but also won.
Some fishermen think they lose fishing time when prospecting. I say no. Whatâs a bigger waste of time than fishing where fish donât live? If all you want to do is land fish, go chum the middle of the bay. Youâll have all the catfish you can handle. Study the weather, the wind, the tides, air and water temperatures, and phase of the moon. Run to spots you think might hold fish. Prospect. A catch equals success. No catch is also success. Note the results on a map or notebook. You just gained knowledge. Move on. Forget the ânever leave fish to find fish.â The point is finding them. Once found, youâre done in that spot. Didnât catch anything? Now you know where they are not; even when you lose, you win. Move on.
Some people find April a tough fishing month. Not me. Prospect. The outside points donât just hold fish in the summer. Sure, you lose fishing time, but gain insight on fish habits. You might just burn fuel and enjoy cruising around, getting to know the area better, or you could find the fish of a lifetime. Remember to slow down for boats running on the trolling motor, power pole, or in the backcountry. Donât shoehorn yourself into a spot someone else is already in. Keep moving. You might lose some time getting to your destination, but you become a better boater and guest in the 10k. Etiquette goes a long way. Remember, even when you lose, you win.
