06.13
Finally got back to fishing Flamingo on my yak this morning. It’s been a loooong 6 months since the last time I even touched a rod and was itching to get into some action. Decided to keep take it easy and only bring 3 spinning rods and minimal gear. It was HARD not bringing the long rod but, I wanted to keep it simple and just bend a rod by any means necessary.
Did not get out as early as I wanted but the Mingo ramp was not busy at all at day break. The 45 minute paddle out to the flats was pretty uneventful. Was thinking I’d see a few tarpon rolling like I did all last summer but it was dead quiet. Things changed quickly once I hit the flat. There were Redfish all over the usual spots. Unfortunately, they were super spooky. Must have seen at least 2 dozen cruisers and tailers in under 2 hours but only got one of them to eat and he popped off as I was putting my anchor down. Probably spooked a good dozen others either by casting too close or they’d simply spook upon seeing the lure.
I was hoping to get more shots as the tides got better but a major thunderstorm started rolling in from the Keys that had me running back to the marina earlier than anticipated. Of course, the damn thing turned North at the last moment and I could have probably stayed on the flat all day. Frustrating but better safe than sorry I guess.
Oh, definitely bringing the fly rod next time. Couldn’t help but wonder if I would have had better luck with a quieter presentation? Of course, that means getting a lot closer, so who knows….
Time to start practicing with the fly rod again!
Glad you were able to get your line wet. 6 months is a long time!!! I played hooky from work Friday and went fishing, before Carrie and Aiden flew back into town Saturday. Karma bit me in the ass. I had a disastrous day. Long story, but basically my car got stuck in the snow (in the middle of June!!!!) on the road to the trailhead. Tow truck came and got me out, but not before having to free himself from the same spot. 2 hours later, I’m free and hiking my way towards the river, only to discover it was completely blown out. All the late snow we got this Spring was starting to melt and the water was running super high and muddy. Totally unfishable. I made the best of it and got in a nice hike into the mountains, but so much for fishing.
Lol how far up did you go that you saw snow? That’s insane.
I read that they are having the same problem with spring thaw in Montana. Oh well, maybe next time for both of us.