Keep Yourself Alive

    Every year, usually in the early Spring, I always hear, or read, about someone going out in a kayak and flipping it, only to wind up dead because they couldn't back on, or in, their kayak. Here are some examples from the last few years:

  Madison,CT June 13, 2016

Montville,CT Feb. 20, 2017 (Part 1)

Montville,CT Mar. 21, 2017 (Part 2)

Hartford,CT May 12, 2017

Old Saybrook,CT May 29, 2018

    This is especially true here in Connecticut where we have fatalities every year involving kayaks. Some are by careless people who take huge risks by overestimating their own capabilities. Worst of all, some didn't bother to wear a life vest, and some had a life vest with them but chose not to wear it!
    It almost begs the question, when will we have more stringent rules regarding kayak & paddle craft safety measures put into place? Or better yet, when are people going to care? Here in Connecticut: "It is a state law to wear a life jacket while on a paddle craft from October 1 through May 31."

    This is should be mandatory all year long! I've actually heard a few Park Rangers tell me, "That you do not need a life vest/jacket from Memorial Day thru Labor Day." I respond by saying, "Are you people insane??? Those are the busy times of the year for boaters and/or fishermen!!!! These big boat guys don't care about our kayaks in the water!" The Park Rangers then tell me, "It's an option, sir." 

    Let's be serious here, why would ANYBODY tell someone that??? Especially when the Marine Patrol agents are busy with their safety checks asking to see if you have enough life jackets for everyone aboard your vessel. Or, as with the Coast Guard, checking to see if you're wearing your life vest. Why should it be just one agency, the US Coast Guard, that maintains that this should be mandatory all the time? The Marine Patrol should be doing the same as well - for the entire year!
    

    Whenever I go out, whether it's just a casual paddle, or if I'm fully rigged up and ready to go, I'm always ready for safety - life vest is on, marine radio is fully charged, safety mast with flag is up, and the rescue rope is tethered on my left side. Because you never know when you're going to flip over. I rolled a few years ago. It's one of those things where you're thinking, "....Oh, that'll never happen to me...." Guess what? Mother Nature was being cranky that day. Between the windy conditions (25 mph gusts), the big swells (3-4 ft rollers), and operator errors, I found myself in a situation that I couldn't avoid getting out of. I thought I could save myself from getting rolled, but it didn't work out the way I wanted it to, and over I went.
    I thought to myself, I'll just call for help using my marine radio, which is waterproof, but then I realized that I was the ONLY one in our group that was smart enough to actually have one and use it. What a waste! Four of us launched and I was the only person that carried a radio that day. I have a whistle attached to the zipper on my life vest, but would anybody even hear me?

    Here are just some of the ways to keep yourself alive out on the water:

1.) Tell someone where you're going.
    It never hurts to tell someone where you're going. You can always call if you're going to be late. If no one hears from you, after a day or two, then they can call the authorities.

2.) Place your cell phone in a waterproof bag.
    If you don't want your cell phone to turn into a pocket heater, then get yourself a good waterproof bag. Be sure to put it in "Airplane" mode to help conserve power. Just remember to turn off the "Airplane" mode when you need to use it.

3.) Buy a quality waterproof marine radio.
    While there are lots of radios on the market that have long range capabilities, you will need to invest in a quality, waterproof, marine radio. I carry a Standard Horizon HX-130 Marine Radio. It also has 10 Weather (WX) Channels and can transmit in either 1/3/or 5 watts.

4.) WEAR YOUR LIFE VEST!
    This one item alone should be a "no brainer". Wearing it could, or will, save your life - hence the term, a "vest" that saves your "life"! Depending on your kayak's seat, you will need to find a life vest that doesn't interfere with your seat's height. Make sure that the life vest's flotation area, on the back of your shoulders, is above the top of your seat. I realize that there will some days where the temperature outside will be unbearable. Don't take chances! If it's a nice day out, the boat traffic will be busy. Most boaters will be respectful, and steer clear of you. While other boaters may be careless and harassing at times.

5.) Use a Safety Mast with Orange Flag.
    On another blog post from a few years ago, I wrote about how you can make your safety mast with an orange flag. And, for those of you that fish at night, or in the early morning fog, you can add a white light to the top as well. Paddling in saltwater can be iffy at times. The constant tidal currents, swells created by other motor boaters, and the wind/weather can factor in many difficulties that one must deal with while out and about on the water. With an orange flag mounted behind your seat, you're increasing your chances of NOT being struck by another motor boater. Wearing bright colored clothing is a huge plus as well.

6.) Have a "Rescue Rope" with you.
    While most of us aren't expecting to experience a kayak flipping over, you need to plan on how you intend on righting your kayak, should this ever happen in the future. I have what's called a "Rescue Rope" attached to the left handle of my kayak. It's made from 550 Paracord that's been doubled up to 1100 lb strength with XL carabiners at each end. This will allow me to flip my kayak right-side up in a matter of seconds - instead of several minutes, or worse, not at all. While the kayak is upside down, I simply unclip one of the carabiners and toss it over the hull of the kayak. I then float over to the side that has the rope hanging, and proceed to climb on top of the kayak. By grasping the rope tightly, I throw myself backward into the water again, this will force the kayak to re-right itself in a hurry. If you're in a group, you can radio for help, and maybe some members of your group can assist in helping you get back into your kayak. Or, you can re-enter the kayak the old fashioned way by using this method here:

How to Re-Enter a Sit-On-Top Kayak

The video above was done by my good friend Walt Lariscy - a pioneer in the sport of kayak fishing and safety. 

* NOTE: I watched his video at least 20 times. Watch it. Learn it. Remember it.

Trust me, this video will SAVE YOUR LIFE SOMEDAY! I reached out to Walt on YouTube after my rollover, and thanked him for this video. It works!

    These are a few of the things every kayaker, or kayak angler, should carry with them at all times while out on any body of water.

As usual, keep those lines wet & tight! - J

It takes a Village.......

    If you're wondering what this month's blog is about, then let's go back a few months.....

    During the "New England Saltwater Show 2018" in Providence,RI earlier this year, both myself and RISAA Kayak member Mona Rodriguez, would arrive an hour early and walk the convention center to look over the other vendor's displays before the crowd came in.
 
    For the past 14 years, our fishing club the "Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association" (RISAA), has been putting on the "New England Saltwater Show" with the help our club's members as staff. We would do this on a volunteer basis - meaning we are not paid to staff the show, or the booths in the show. RISAA has many different "committees" that may cater to the saltwater enthusiast that may have more than one passion. The club's cost is $50 a year to join RISAA. Then, if you want to sign up with the Surfcasting Committee, then you would be directed to that committee's chairperson at no additional cost to you. There is also the Kayak Committee, Fly Fishing Committee, Tournaments Committee, Charter Trips Committee, etc.. All in all, it is one of the largest saltwater fishing clubs in the USA.

    Anyway, while Mona & I were walking around the convention center, we came across this guy that represents a charter company called "Veteran Angler Charters". VA Charters, Inc. offers no-cost charter fishing trips to disabled veterans of all branches of the armed forces, providing our troops with recreational rehabilitation and therapeutic support. His name was Capt. Randy Bagwell. We stopped by to say "hi", and we got to talking about signing up for a free charter. We told him we were two booths down, on the same side, in RISAA's Kayak Committee booth. Then, he mentions he knows a young man named Kevin DuBois, that expressed his dream of entering a kayak fishing tournament. There was a one catch though, Kevin lost his legs at the hip from an IED, a Improvised Explosive Device.

    As it turned out, my friend Mona had an older Hobie Outback that needed a little work. She had gotten it for free, from another Kayak Committee member (Bob Oberg), that already had a newer Outback and no longer needed the old one. Anyway, Bob told us it needed new rudder lines to make it work properly. As well as, a new rudder lift line. The rudder just lifts up, unlike the newer "twist & stow" rudder that flips up and out of the way. Well, we started to look for a shop that would be willing to do the work for an affordable price (something we can afford).

    Enter the ring, shop #1: Megrew's Boats, Hobie Dealer, Charlestown,RI
I knew this shop well because it's located on Route 1, and it's near a few places I like to fish at, Quonchonataug Breachway, Ninigret Pond, and Charlestown Breachway. So, we approach the owner with our dilemma, and we had the said kayak in tow. She took a quick look at it, it told us we should just scrap it, and get a new kayak - that it wasn't worth the headache of replacing the lines. I've dealt with this woman before, and she can be very bullheaded. The store has just about every accessory you can imagine, and it's always well stocked. If you're willing to "brag" about your product (Hobie), you'd better be able to handle a simple fix like this. So, shop #1 was crossed off the help list.

    Enter shop #2: Collinsville Canoe & Kayak, Hobie Dealer, Collinsville,CT
This is the very same shop I bought my Hobie Outback at. It's located right on the Farmington River in Collinsville,CT. We asked for the repairs department, and out comes their "tech/repairs" guy. We told him what needs to be done, and informed him that we already purchased the lines. As like before, he gives the kayak a quick look from top to bottom, and "throws out" a repair estimate - $250. I won't lie, I nearly crapped my pants when he said the repair would take two hours! He also noticed a "crack" on the underside of the hull. Former owner, Bob told us he had the hull pressure tested, and that it did not leak. But, "Tech Guy" bragged about his 1200 watt plastic welder, and wouldn't even attempt that repair (hull's underside). I told "Tech Guy" that my $20 80 watt plastic welder can do it,  AND I won't charge Kevin a dime to do it! And so, shop #2 was crossed off the help list as well.

Three Belles Marina is an authorized Hobie kayak dealer.

Photo Credit #1: Lindsay Amherst

    Enter shop #3: Three Belles Marina, Hobie Dealer, Niantic,CT
Mona was getting discouraged about the kayak's repairs, wondering if it was even worth repairing at all. I told her I know a shop that may be able to help - enter, "Three Belles Marina" located in Niantic,CT on the Niantic River. A full service marina, and an authorized Hobie Dealer. We drove down with the kayak in the back of my truck, and met with John Van Ness, Tao, Yanni, and Shawn Pagano. As we were explaining what needed to be done, Tao, Yanni, and Shawn had begun lubricating the stainless steel parts, O-ringed hatch seals, and other working mechanisms. We brought the lines with us, and explained that Mona wanted to donate this kayak to a wounded retired US Marine veteran, that had no idea that we were donating the kayak to him. We also mentioned Randy Bagwell, and got him on the phone, so he could explain Kevin's aspirations for entering a kayak fishing tournament. But, best of all, it would be done in a Hobie - one that the shop would be mentioned in! Believe it or not, Three Belles Outfitters said YES, they will do the work!!!

Kevin DuBois, and his wife Kayla DuBois arrive at Three Belles Marina.

Photo Credit #2: Lindsay Amherst

From left to right: Kayla Dubois, Kevin DuBois, Jeff Hall, Mona Rodriguez, Thomas Houde, Capt. Randy Bagwell, Shawn Pagano, and John Van Ness. Kevin sees his new ride and is literally speechless.

Photo Credit #3: Lindsay Amherst

Shawn Pagano, service manager at TBO, thanks Kevin for his service.

Photo Credit #4: Lindsay Amherst

John Van Ness, floor manager at TBO, thanks Kevin for his service.

Photo Credit #5: Lindsay Amherst

Pictured from left to right: John Van Ness, Jeff Hall, Mona Rodriguez, Thomas Houde, Capt. Randall Bagwell, Shawn Pagano, Kevin DuBois, 

and Kayla DuBois 

Photo Credit #6: Lindsay Amherst

Kevin, and his wife Kayla, along with USMC photographer Lindsay Amherst, who took most of these photos.

Photo Credit #7: Capt. Randall Bagwell

John Van Ness applies a "Three Belles Outfitters" vinyl decal on the right side of Kevin's Hobie Outback.

Photo Credit #8: Lindsay Amherst

Jeff Hall and Mona Rodriguez explain to Kevin and Kayla the best way on how to transport the kayak in the back of the pickup truck with the tailgate down. Jeff explained that he uses ratchet-style straps to secure the kayak upside down in the truck's bed, while a second ratchet-style strap keeps the kayak from moving side to side when taking corners.

Photo Credit #9: Lindsay Amherst

Shawn Pagano, USMC veteran Kevin DuBois, and his wife Kayla DuBois outside Three Belles Outfitters with his very own Hobie Outback kayak that was possible from the generous donations of people that care.

On behalf of "Kayak Fishing Country", I personally want to say, "Thank you All, for your service!" - USMC Kevin DuBois, USMC Lindsay Amherst, US Army Thomas Houde, USMC Daniel Whited, and US Navy Randall Bagwell  

Photo Credit #10: Lindsay Amherst

    From Three Belles Marina's Facebook page:
US Marine Corporal Kevin Dubois was on his second deployment when he lost both of his legs at the hip after stepping on an improvised explosive device (IED) in Helmand Province, Afghanistan on July 31, 2011. Four days later, he woke up in Bethesda MD, where he learned from his wife, Kayla, and from his doctors that the massive IED blast had taken his legs. During the helicopter evacuation to a NATO trauma center, medics pumped 14 units of blood into Dubois (more than a typical human body contains) just to keep him breathing. After his injury, Kevin was moved to the Navy Medical Center San Diego where they lived while he did his extensive rehabilitation. Kevin and Kayla have since moved back home to Rhode Island. We received a phone call from Mona Rodriguez, who had a Hobie kayak to donate to getting Kevin on the water to fish from a kayak. Thomas Houde, who fishes for TBO Fishing, suggested Mona get in touch with us to see if we could help with some broken rudder lines and other rigging. Once we heard about what Kevin had been through serving our country we immediately offered our assistance, We donated a fish-finder install kit and all labor to complete the job. Through friends, and various organizations, all donated a fish-finder, new seat, a safety flag, a Hobie cart for transport, and a new PFD. It was great to meet Kevin and his friends. We are looking forward to seeing him get into some fish in the near future, and we are truly honored to have been a part of this. 

    From Randy's Facebook page, he had this to say:
Saturday, May 5, 2018, What a day... My bud USMC Kevin Dubois was recently at a benefit and buying raffle tickets for a kayak. I thought... "I got 2 legs and I can't kayak"... let me see what I can do. Mona Rodriguez graciously donated a kayak that was outfitted by the amazing guys at Three Belles Marina (Tom, John, and Shawn), which was presented to Kevin today. Other donations included a Helix 7 Hummingbird GPS fish finder from Hummingbird, an inflatable life preserver from West Marine, and additional donations from USMC vets Daniel Whited and Lindsay Amherst. It takes a village, give the fish some hell Kevin! Kayla Eva Dubois you're next!

Sunday, May 6, 2018,  As I said yesterday, "it takes a village", there are a lot of people and businesses to thank in making it happen. In February, I found out that my bud, USMC Kevin Dubois, was looking for a kayak because he said his kayak was destroyed by the last snowstorm. So, I started asking around and made a call to Army Vet, Thomas Houde, who is a big saltwater kayak fisherman. So, he put out his feelers. Then, at the RISAA fishing show, I met Mona Rodriguez just two booths down who was promoting "RISAA's Kayak Committee". I told her the story of Kevin, and that I needed a kayak, she said, "I have a used one that I could donate." Well, I really wanted a new from one of the big manufacturers, but I'm not a kayak fisherman, so I was striking out. Sunday, at the show, I told Mona I would take the kayak, and pick it up during the week. She said, "...well, it will need a little work...." And, that's where the village started to grow. 
    Mona Rodriguez and Jeff Hall took the kayak to Three Belles Marina and the crew Shawn Pagano and John Van Ness. After hearing the story of Kevin from Mona, the crew said, "We got this. We will go through it, and make like brand new, at no cost." We would just have to buy any equipment and/or parts, Well, that's when I went out asking for favors, I reached out to Captain BJ Silvia, a Pro staff member for Humminbird and Bill Carson, also from Humminbird. The next thing I know, BJ Silvia is calling, saying that they are providing Kevin with a Helix 7 DSI Gen 2 Fish finder/Sonar w/Down Scan Imaging/GPS. I stopped by West Marine, and asked for an auto-inflatable life jacket, and they gave me one. The only thing it needed was a seat. So, I asked the members of "Aquidneck Island Striper Team", to purchase the seat. The delay in delivering the kayak, was a mount for the Humminbird that was on back order, so a co-worker, and USMC vet Daniel Whited, asked for the part number and said, "it will be here by Friday", and he covered the cost. Then, I asked co-worker, and USMC vet Lindsay Amherst, if she would take a ride, and when we present it to Kevin, to take pictures. When she found out that the one item missing was the safety flag with light, as one Marine helping another Marine, she bought that - and it completed the delivery. 

     Again, it takes a village. I just wanted to make sure I thanked everyone involved for making it happen. A big shout out to Al Gag, who is providing Kevin with the best lures made for saltwater action. I just don't know if Kevin has the right rod and reel, but I bet I can find it, if needed. Thanks to a village!

    With that said, I told Kevin that I was working on a special tri-color "Gear Crate", made just for him. Leaked a few photos for him, and Kayla, about the "very patriotic" gear crate. Kayla asked me how much I usually charge for a custom gear crate, I told her, "this one's on me." Normally, I charge about $75, because my crates are all brand new with no labels stamped on the sides. These aren't "permanently borrowed" or "stolen". Mona reached out to some friends in Alaska, and they sent a 7.5' saltwater rod and reel combo, which Kevin has already received. Here's a pic of the "Patriotic Gear Crate" I just completed.

The author standing with a tri-color gear crate for a retired wounded USMC vet.

Photo Credit #11: Mona Rodriguez

All things aside, it was a great day hanging out with the guys at Three Belles Marina, and we finally got to meet Kevin & Kayla Eva DuBois!

*Note: This Hobie came with a footwell plug and a Mirage Drive Pedal System. Kevin has a few ideas on modifying the foot pedal system, and turning it into a hand powered system, by adding some extension arms that are similar to what you'd use at a gym on a elliptical ski machine. Stay tuned for a possible "Part 2" to this story!

Until then, keep those lines wet & tight! - J

The Kayak Angler's Checklist

    We've all been there before. You're either getting ready to go to your favorite fishing hole, or meet up with some friends, and you've forgotten to pack something. While most of us have everything we need for a regular outing, at some point you will forget something that will be a key component that may leave you at the dock or shore preventing you from having a good day on the water.
    After the first couple of outings, I gradually forgot one, or more items at home that really embarrassed me in front of others. So, on a particularly slow day at work, I began to list everything that I would take for a "normal" day of fishing.
    I'm using the word "normal" lightly here because some of the items on my checklist may be used for freshwater locations, as well as some saltwater locations too. I also began to break the items down into separate categories. I will explain why I listed some of the items on the list that may be questionable to some. Below is a photo of a document that I use as a guide in the Spring to help myself remember what I need for the season ahead.

Photo Credit: Jeff Hall

    Let's start at the top section and work our way down. "Kayak Gear" means the essential items that your kayak needs to perform right.

    First item is "Paddle", if you have a kayak that has a "Pedal Drive" system, it will count as the same item. 

    Secondly, don't forget your "Seat". 

    And thirdly, your "Kayak Cart/Wheels" (plug-in style, strap[s] attachment, or folding style), just in case you have to park far away from your launch point. 

    Middle section includes some "Safety Items". Though it's not marked in the photo, I will put a star on the "must have" items that will help you avoid getting a fine by the Game Wardens in your region.

    These items marked with a star are a must have: 

    

    PFD/Life Vest*, First Aid Kit*, Marine VHF Radio*, and Safety Mast w/Orange Flag & Light*.

    The "PFD/Life Vest" will save your life. Don't take chances with this one item. It will be the final difference between coming home to your family, or your family getting bad news by your local police. 

    The "First Aid Kit" may not get used that often, but here in Connecticut and Rhode Island, it's a must have item.

    A good quality "Marine VHF Radio" that floats is a big must have. Most good quality radios will have weather channels. These are good if the weather should turn ugly in a hurry. Mine, a Standard Horizon HX130, came with a small cord attached to the radio's clip. I removed the clip on the back of the radio and attached the cord to my life vest's mini D-ring inside the left front pocket. If I roll, the radio won't be lost floating in the surf.

    A "Safety Mast w/Orange Flag & Light" is a great addition to anyone's kayak. In saltwater, the orange flag mounted high on a mast, will help you be more visible during tidal swells. In saltwater, as well as freshwater, it will also alert other boaters to stay clear of you while you fish. The white light should be mounted at the top of the mast, preferably above your head, so as to be seen 360 degrees in any direction. The light needs to be bright enough to be seen in heavy fog, as well as, the dark of night. US Coast Guard says the light MUST be White (non-flashing) and be visible up to two miles away. I also covered the top 8 inches in red & white reflective tape. Not all parking areas have street lamps at them.

    These other items are optional: Bug Spray, Sunscreen, and Rescue Rope.

    If you've ever rolled your kayak (I did in 2015), you know how difficult it is to right your kayak, let alone get back on your kayak without any help! The "Rescue Rope" is a true kayak angler's best friend. It will aid you in getting your kayak flipped back over in no time with very little effort. It can also be used to tow another kayak angler back to shore. No place to hold your monster catch? No problem! Keep one end clipped to your handle, un-clip one end and feed the other end through the fish's gill, then clip the other end to the rope (like a over-sized fish stringer), and drag the fish back to shore.

    For re-entering a SOT (sit-on-top) kayak after you've rolled, be sure to click this link by Walt Lariscy on "How to Re-Enter a SOT Kayak":

How to Re-Enter a Sit-On-Top Kayak

    And finally, the Last section - the miscellaneous "Materials". Most of these are optional. What you carry while out on the water will be up to you. There are some items on this list that even I don't carry. You can put these items in whatever order you choose:

    GPS/Sonar, Towel, Knife, Power Cable (for your sonar/fish finder), Tape/Ruler, Gear Basket, Rain Suit, Food & Water, Anchor, Fish Net, 12 volt Battery (fully charged), Sponge/Water Pump, Machete/Brush Axe, Dry Bags (different sizes), Digital Camera (waterproof), Fishing Poles w/Leashes, Lip Grippers/Long Pliers, Safety Whistle, and Bait.

    Some of the things that I carry: PFD/Life Vest w/Safety Whistle (attached to the zipper), Dry bags for my cellphone and digital camera (both the cellphone and digital camera are not waterproof), Ruler (aka Hawg Trough) which has an old landline phone cord "leash" because it doesn't float, Food (nut bars) and watered down Powerade, Lip Grippers (landline phone cord "leashed" to a homemade holster that's attached to my Gear Crate, I have different 12 volt power sources - one for my Hook 5 Fish Finder/GPS and the other to power a small light in my foot well (both are in separate dry bags in my center hatch), Small Dive Knife with Sheath on a lanyard, Towel is in forward hatch, Two 9 ft salt poles (graphite/medium action), and two freshwater rods (graphite/medium action) with Hobie rod leashes, and my "Bait" is bought at *Wal-Mart in the frozen food section - Small/Medium Uncooked Prawns [shrimp]. *Note: Most Wal-Mart stores are open 24 hours a day now.    

    The above photo was originally written as a document and couldn't be uploaded, or downloaded. So, I took a picture and tried my best to clean up the image. But if you want, you may use this as a guide for making your own check list. Take a picture with your cellphone and follow along while making your own checklist document.

    As usual, keep those lines wet & tight!  - J

Spilling the beans on my early Spring Striper Rigs

    During the days I attended the 2018 New England Saltwater Fishing Show, where I was doing 7 free seminars over the course of 3 days, I was asked what are my favorite rigs for early Spring schoolie Striped Bass. You should've seen the odd looks I got when I mentioned that I use Marabou Crappie jigs as my favorite "go to" rigs. If you haven't guessed it yet, Crappie, are a freshwater species of fish.

    In the past 4 years, I've used Marabou Crappie jigs from Bass Pro Shops. They are weighted with a 1/16th oz. black jig head, painted with white eyes, with a orange fuzzy body, and finished off with a brown feather tail. They come in a packet of 10 for just $3. This color combo is my all-time favorite lure in the early Spring. It crushes the competition whenever I show up among the other kayak fly fishermen. Most of the time they leave whenever I show up after the second cast out.
    I have them in other colors as well - purple body/purple tail/grey head, white body/white tail/ pink head, black body/yellow tail/red head, and grey body/grey tail/grey head. Below are some of the colors that I use.

Some of the Marabou Crappie jigs that I use. The top one is my all time favorite.

Photo Credit: Jeff Hall 

    Believe it or not, I actually gave away a few of my pre-made rigs to a guy that was just getting into kayak fishing for the first time this year. I'm hoping he joined our fishing club in hopes of one day seeing him at one of our launch spots.

    This year, I decided to make the switch to soft plastics, and have chosen a few colors that match the cinder worm hatch in early Spring. Below are a few of the soft plastics I intend on using this year. I will still continue to use the other rigs as well.
    Top color: Monkey Milk (Ice Blue), Middle color: Pink Ice (glow in the dark), Bottom color: Black/Hot Pink.

Photo Credit: Jeff Hall

    The cinder worms are a strange breed of "worm", and that's putting it lightly. I showed another member of our kayak fishing group these soft plastics, and he said the middle one (pink ice) would be a good color match to "match the hatch". Cinder Worms can vary in color every season. But from my experience, they are usually greyish in the head, light pink in the body, and reddish in the tail. So, we'll see how my color choices go for this year.
    The photo below shows what these worms really look like.

Photo Credit: SkinnyWaterChartersRI.com

Photo Credit: Reel-Time.com

Photo Credit: FlyFishRI.com

Photo Credit: AnglersJournal.com

    As for the rigging, I normally use braided line, but when rigging light rigs such as these soft plastics and Marabou jigs, I'm using clear mono line, 10 - 12 lb. test, 15" - 17" in length attached to a swivel that attaches to a Hi-Vis floating cone bobber. I'm including a diagram below plus a rig that I've previously made.

Photo Credit: SaltwaterSportsman.com

Though the photo above shows a white cone bobber made from high density styrofoam, I chose to use a high visibility Neon/Chartreuse Yellow which can be seen better near dusk and early evening. The cinder worm emergence happens best during a full moon. 

The photo below shows a rig I made previously using 15" - 17" of clear mono with one end attached to a gold swivel, and the other end attached to the soft plastic. The above diagram shows you how the rig is attached.

One of the newer rigs I plan to use this year. The milky white portion of the jig, under the pink part, glows in the dark.

Photo Credit: Jeff Hall

Other rigs in my arsenal of soft plastics include several from a local lure maker named Al "Gag" Gagliarducci. His chartreuse 4" "Whip-It Eels" were killing it at Fort Adams last year at the point next to the fog horn. The photo below shows off my collection of Al Gag's "Whip-It Eels" in 4", 6", and 8" lengths  with ( 4 ) 1/16 oz. heads, ( 4 ) 1/4 oz. heads, ( 1 ) 1/2 oz. head .

The "Whip-It Eels" that look white with a pink pearl are actually like a translucent pearl green when held up towards a light source. Fish will see it as a milky clear green with a pink pearl undertone. The 3 lures on the lower left are rigged with Al Gag's 1/4 oz. heads. The 4 lures on left, above the Al Gag's lures, are rigged with Bass Pro 1/16 oz. jig heads. The lure on the top right is a chartreuse Al Gag's 6" "Whip-It Eel" rigged with a Cabela's 1/4 oz. jig head. And the lure on the lower right is also an Al Gag's 8" chartreuse "Whip-It Eel" weighted with a 1/2 oz. no name jig head. 

Photo Credit: Jeff Hall

    So, these are just a few of the rigs & lures that I plan on using this year for the early/late Spring and early Summer during the cinder worm emergence at Ninigret Pond (Charlestown,RI), Potter Pond (South Kingstown,RI), and Fort Adams (Newport,RI).

    As usual, keep those lines tight & wet!  - J

2018 New England Saltwater Fishing Show

    After a small hiatus, it's THAT time of year again to promote the northeast's BIGGEST saltwater show, and also the first blog of the year!
    It's the 15th annual "New England Saltwater Fishing Show" held at Providence Convention Center in Providence,RI. March 9 - 11, 2018. 300 exhibitors! 100,000 sq. ft. of saltwater fishing - the LARGEST saltwater fishing show in the Northeast!
    Non-stop FREE SEMINARS in FOUR Seminar Areas! 60 Seminars & Demos in 3 days by the top anglers in the region!
    Friday is VETERAN'S DAY - 1st 300 military & veterans free w/ ID
    Sunday is FAMILY DAY - All women & kids FREE!
    Admission is $10 for Adults (12- under free).

    Show Hours: Friday: 1pm-8pm
                          Saturday: 9am-7pm
                          Sunday: 10am-5pm

Photo Credits: Jeff Hall

    For the past 15 years, my saltwater fishing club the "Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association" has been putting on the show. I joined RISAA in 2011 with the hopes of meeting some new people to fish. I have never been to a show this big before. Connecticut and Massachusetts didn't have anything nearly as big as this show. Lots of vendors and even more free seminars at 4 different areas of the convention center.
    At the show, I picked up their special "newsletter" which was more like a magazine. After reading through a few pages, I spotted a section dedicated to just kayak fishing called, "Kayak Committee" and all the dates they had lined up for that year on where they would meet up for a day (or, night) of fishing. I met up with some of the members at Goddard Memorial Park for their annual "Meet & Greet" (which happens every year in June) to see how others set up their kayaks. I also joined the committee that day as well and became a member of the club.
    The following years in 2012, 2013, and 2014, I volunteered to do the show in the kayak booth for all 3 days - years 2013 & 2014, I showed off my kayak in the booth to the patrons at what a rigged kayak looks like for saltwater use. In 2015, the RISAA president asked me if I'd be willing to do a few seminars for the show on "Rigging a Kayak for Saltwater Fishing". In 2016, I added "reminder cards" for my blog site on the table in the booth so I wouldn't have to write out the blog address. 2016 was also the year my friend and Kayak Committee member Mona Rodriguez suggested we add a safety aspect to the seminars. Kayak Fishing in the northeast is on the rise, and so are the accidents/deaths that go along with it. Mona also got the US Coast Guard involved in the safety portion of the show by providing safety brochures, whistles, rules & regulations on boating booklets, as well as a speaker from the Coast Guard Auxiliary.
    Mona will also be speaking on a few seminars about "Fishing With A Disability". One will be on Friday (TBA), and another will be on Saturday (TBA). The times aren't listed as of yet because she also helps me out in my seminar time slot which lasts about 1 hour. There are a few openings left, so the show's promoter is still figuring out the time slots.

    Fast forward to the present 2018, this year my seminar schedules have been increased to 2 shows on Friday, 3 shows on Saturday, and 2 shows on Sunday.
    I can found here under the "Seminar Speakers" page (from last year's show schedule in 2017). I began to include a safety aspect to my seminar having accidentally rolled in the surf off Rocky Point in Warwick in 2015. With no one around to assist me, I righted my kayak with the help of Mona's homemade "Kayak Self Rescue Rope", in high winds and rough seas, and got back inside in under 5 minutes! The best part to this whole ordeal? I never practiced this technique before - EVER!

  

RISAA Kayak Committee members from left to right:

 David Grady, Jeff Hall, and Walter Kay

Photo Credit: Mona Rodriguez  

    I've hinted about giving a special safety seminar that would be about "Kayak Self Rescue" - the art of righting your kayak and re-entry techniques.       

    *Note: Unfortunately, this won't be a seminar topic at the show, as we do not have a swimming area large enough to accommodate the kayak and its "gear" - dummy poles & crate with weights to simulate a loaded kayak. This will have to be an outdoor venue only.

    Anyway, here are some other photos from shows I've done in the past.

Photo Credit: Mona Rodriguez

Photo Credit: Jeff Hall

With Captain Sandro Maniaci (top photo) of the fishing vessel F/V Tuna.com from National Geographic's hit TV show "Wicked Tuna". Sandro, along Captain Dave Carraro (bottom photo with Mona Rodriguez), were guest speakers at the shows from the past 3 years.

 

Photo Credits: Unknown 

(another patron snapped a few pics from one of my seminars and sent me the photos)

My kayak's setup as seen at the Casting Lane area for the seminar. 

Photo Credit: Mona Rodriguez

Above, Jeff Hall & Bob Oberg from the 2016 Saltwater Fishing Show.

Photo Credit: Jeff Hall

Above, Dave Guilliano at the 2016 Salt Show manning the kayak booth.

Photo Credit: Jeff Hall

Above, Bass Yaks impressive display of motorized kayaks. The lime green kayak on the left is non-motorized. A vendor of the show that sells kayaks with, or without trolling motors, as well as lightly used kayaks.

So, if you're fan of saltwater fishing whether it be from boat, shore, or kayak, then you have get out and come to the show! See you there!

As usual, keep those lines wet & tight! - J

What is Kayak Fishing? And, why all the secrecy?

    Though this month's title is late in my blog series, a lot of my friends on Facebook (and co-workers), think of me as insane for choosing to fish out of a kayak. Maybe I can shed some light on this odd fascination with chasing big fish from a tiny plastic boat.

    So, what is kayak fishing really?

    Well, according to Wikipedia:

    Kayak fishing is fishing from a kayak. The kayak has long been a means of transportation and a stealth means of approaching easily spooked fish, such as cobia and flounder. Kayak fishing has gained popularity in recent times due to its broad appeal as an environmentally friendly and healthy method of transportation, as well as its relatively low cost of entry compared to motorized boats.

* Special thanks to Wikipedia.org for the brief description.

We, and not just myself, have been referred to as kayak fishermen, kayak anglers, the plastic Navy, and so on. We have also been called crazy, insane, stupid, reckless, and territorial. But, the one thing I try to include in some of my articles, are some of the places I like to fish. I like to think that the ocean is a vast territory that should be enjoyed by everybody regardless of the type of kayak that you chose to buy. Because not everyone can find a good bargain, or afford a "high end" kayak that has pedals or a motor on it.

I've also noticed that some of the groups that I belong to on Facebook, as well as the club that I fish with in Rhode Island (the largest in New England), they are extremely private, territorial, and downright secretive for the most part. Not really sure why everybody's so secretive all of sudden. I don't believe any area to be totally "fished out". Fish, like kayak anglers themselves, tend to be on the move constantly, looking for the best places to forage for food (or, find fish).

Lately, a group on a popular social media site that's based out of Rhode Island, was once a "private group". But now the group has grown in the last few months, and has now been changed from a private group, to a "secret group". They've become a little "territorial" in their membership rules, that anybody who "leaks out" their secret launch spots, or private meets, will be booted out of the club - permanently.

When I'm writing one of my blogs, I like to include places that are my favorite fishing spots on a constant basis. I don't mind giving out my trade secrets. If they worked for me, maybe they will work for you, or better yet, maybe you will have better luck than I did. I will also include some of the rigs that I used to catch my fish that day/night. Some of the hot spots that I frequent in neighboring Rhode Island on a regular basis are Newport Harbor, Fort Adams, Fort Wetherill, Camp Cronin, Ninigret Pond, and Quonchonataug (Quonny) Pond. These are known producers for striped bass - both schoolie & keeper sized.

Some of my favorite rigs that I use in the early Spring are Marabou Crappie Jigs with a 1/16th oz head. The body is orange, the head is black with white "eyes", and the tail has brown feathers. I then tie 15"-17" of clear 10 lb. mono fishing line to the head.

Photo Credit #1: Jeff Hall

   This setup is the same killer setup I've angered and annoyed a lot of other kayak fishermen once I get setup in a spot away from their group. I remember coming into an area where there were already 10 people present trying to catch a few schoolie stripers. I pull up real slow with my poles already rigged with the setup I just mentioned, and after the 3rd, or 4th cast, I started catching one right after another in close succession. I also remember pissing off a few guys who then packed up their gear and paddled out totally disgusted with a "new guy" taking over their spot(s). 

Photo Credit #2: Jeff Hall

    In the early Summer, I like to use Al Gag's Whip-It Eels with a 1/4 oz. jig head in chartreuse yellow. I like to use these at the point at Fort Adams in Newport,RI. I've had great success with Al's lures - both the Whip-It Fish & Whip-It Eels.

The author shown with a nice schoolie striper caught with a 1/4 oz. chartreuse yellow Al Gag's Whip-It Eel at Fort Adams in Newport,RI in early June 2017.

Photo Credit #3: Mona Rodriguez

Another nice schoolie striper caught by the author in the cove at Fort Adams in Newport,RI in early June 2017 with fellow RISAA members Mona Rodriguez & David Grady (not pictured).

Photo Credit #4: Jeff Hall

So, don't be so secretive with your fishing spots. Kayak fishing should be enjoyed by everyone - whether they are young or old. Our youth today, may still be actively pursuing their trophy catch in tomorrow's future. We all owe them that much. 

Until then, keep those lines wet & tight!  - J. 

Storing your Gear for Traveling

    When it comes to your kayak gear, there's an old saying that goes like this, "Everything has its place". While that maybe true, there's always that one time that you forgot something - and it was something that you can't do without (your seat, your fish ruler, emergency knife, spare lures, life vest, etc.). It doesn't matter if your carry your kayak on your car's rooftop, or carry it in the back of your truck's bed, you need a way to transport your gear for every trip - all in one shot.

    Now, you could make a checklist and then systematically place every item in your car's backseat, or in the back seating area of your truck. But, if you have to stop quick, you're the one that's going to be on the receiving end of all that gear you packed, where in your car, it would probably end up on the floor and underneath your front seats. Or, for those of you that have a crew cab truck, you could end up being assaulted by your own gear.

Photo #1 Credit: Jeff Hall

    One way to avoid all that mess is to get a gear trunk (photo #2). Most sporting goods stores carry them (Bass Pro Shops, Cabela's, Wal-Mart, Dick's Sporting Goods, etc.) Large enough to carry everything you need for your trip on the water. One end has wheels to make it easier to transport your gear to your vehicle (photos #2 & #3).

Photo #2 Credit: Jeff Hall

Photo #3 Credit: Jeff Hall

So, with that said, let's take a look at some of the stuff I have packed in my gear trunk - which is pictured above. This is all the stuff, which I like to call "necessary items", meaning that this is all the important items that I need to have a good day out on the water (photo #4).

Photo #4 Credit: Jeff Hall

In the photo above, you can tell that my kayak is a Hobie (Outback) judging by the pedal drive in the center, but I have other items here as well. Here's my rundown of the important stuff: Pedal drive, cold weather gloves (black), life vest, emergency knife, seat, rain suit, 12 volt Battery in a red dry bag, summer gloves (light green), outback hat, fish finder/GPS, Bow Light & Stern Light (both lamps are in a orange dry bag), VHF Marine Radio, Pole extender tubes (2) w/ rod leashes, spare lures, Hawg Trough (fish ruler), foot well plug, dry bag for my cellphone, and homemade Rescue Rope (orange paracord).

As you can see in photo #5 below, everything has its place, once its in the trunk.

Photo #5 Credit: Jeff Hall

    The best part is that it all fits behind me on the bench seat of my Dodge Ram 1500 with the Quad Cab right next to my gear crate. And, I can still see out the window behind me (photo #6).

Photo #6 Credit: Jeff Hall

    Everything that didn't fit in the gear trunk, like fishing poles, safety mast with flag, and paddle(s) are all stored under the bench seat. It's a little tight, but there's nothing interfering with my ability to see, nor will it "attack" me if I should have to stop quick to avoid an accident.

As usual, keep those lines wet & tight! - J