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Now browsing: Hometown News > Fishing > Dan Smith
Dan Smith
This Week | Archive
November 20, 2009
Head north for fun fishing near Matanzas - Do not be overly impressed with published reports of spectacular catches in the Halifax. There are a few fish to be caught, but success will take a lot of work and even more luck. Between Tomoka Basin and the Dunlawton Bridge fishing is a poor as I have ever seen it. While the water retains the color and consistency of coffee, the catch is more l... Full Story
November 13, 2009
With artificials, you may have to be sir cast-a-lot - Before I took a week off to hawk my new book, I promised to get back to beginning with artificial baits. I had mentioned some plugs that are tried and true and reiterated my confidence in the soft tail shrimp jig. Aside from chartreuse you would be wise to own tails in white, yellow, motor oil root beer and red and white. I did not talk about spo... Full Story
November 6, 2009
This fishing book is perfect for a trip to the river or the john - "I Swear The Snook Drowned" is the title of my book, just out. That name is a pretty good clue that this fishing tome is not a serious how-to manual. Instead, it is a compilation of tales that I have always wanted to share with you, but that somehow just did not fit into the venerable pages of the Hometown News. For good measure, I did add a half... Full Story
October 30, 2009
With artificial bait it's all about the quality, not quantity - Let's go back and spend a little more time discussing the proper use of artificial bait, for that is the subject of much of my correspondence. It seems that a lot of folks have the desire to throw lures, but can never quite get the hang of it. First off, you must be aware that by using artificials you will eliminate the bites of the less desirabl... Full Story
October 23, 2009
Any fisherman worth his salt should know how to use a net - Now is a great time to shake out your old cast net for the sporadic shrimp run that has been around for over a month and refuses to come to a complete halt. It hasn't been dependable, but if you hit it lucky a tasty shrimp boil could be your reward. As the Cajuns say: "You could pass some of dem old bays on dere too, yeah." Take your net to the s... Full Story
October 16, 2009
Fall in Florida: The season of the fish - Take heart Florida, fishing season is finally here. For the next couple of months forget football, the baseball playoffs and the World Series. Forget the NASCAR Chase To The Championship. Now is the time to fish. Each fall when the humidity drops and the temperatures remain in the 80s, fishermen begin to unfurl their rods to take to the water. Th... Full Story
October 9, 2009
In the flats, fish on the outer limits - Five months past the May rains and the water in the Halifax still looks like beef broth with no relief in sight. In order to escape that mess, Al Houser and I took my little 16-foot Carolina Skiff down to the northern Indian River lagoon to hunt black drum. We went to the same spot that Captain Leo had shown me the week before. A school of big dr... Full Story
October 2, 2009
Captain Leo drums for drum - and it works! - Eerily quiet at dawn until off in the distance the faint sound of Indian drums. Well actually, it was Indian River black drum. I was south of the Haulover Canal and just across the Volusia line into Brevard County. Once more fishing with the venerable red fish expert Leo Hiles, but this time we had a different target. Captain Leo had been telling... Full Story
September 25, 2009
The mysterious tides of Bulow Creek and High Bridge - One of the world's great mysteries occurs in eastern Volusia County each day and goes mostly unnoticed. The tide goes about its business of rising and falling with two periods of high water and two of low water in each 24-hour period. This is called diurnal and is true of most of the world, but not all. Why the rise and fall happens and keeps suc... Full Story
September 18, 2009
Ah, nature: ospreys, water lilies and ... beer trees - A few days ago, I went to Ormond Beach's Sanchez Park to drop my boat in at the natural ramp there. The water was extremely high and the surface of Strickland Creek was choked with duckweed. That is a plant usually only found in fresh water, so that tells you the state of the water quality there. In 25 years of fishing Strickland, I have never se... Full Story
September 11, 2009
Snookered: Strange tale of a drowned fish - Snook season opened on Sept. 1 and continues through Dec. 15. If you are new to the area or new to Florida, you may find the name of that fish amusing. Snook, pronounced with a short "o" (snuk) locally and with a long "o" (snouk) in some parts of the state, are anything but funny. A serious game fish here and in Central America, the snook is a vi... Full Story
September 4, 2009
Another great day on the lagoon with Captain Leo - Threatening skies could not stop Captain Leo Hiles and me from floating his little Redfisher "The Blue Ghost." Right at dawn, we left the ramp in Edgewater ignoring the looming thunderhead to the south. After a few minutes netting finger mullet, Leo had the "Ghost" up on plane and was navigating a twisting path through the mangrove tangle that is... Full Story
August 28, 2009
Get the plunger, Halifax River won't flush - The water in the Halifax is still in disgraceful condition from the big May rain run-off. That was over three months ago, and there is no relief in sight. It is a crime that the contractors who built the new high-rise bridges were allowed to dam up the river in order to save a few bucks, a crime that will affect us for many years unless something... Full Story
August 21, 2009
Fishing frenzy and kid campers: two great days of angling - We went down to Oak Hill and right at dawn launched Al Houser's skiff at Lopez Fish Camp. After idling south through the no wake zone, we were up on plane and skimming across the big glassy lake that is Mosquito Lagoon. The sun was just peaking over the distant peninsula, but it provided enough light for me to spot a school of baitfish. Al shut t... Full Story
August 14, 2009
Fish a little longer for BIG reds - Big reds are at the inlet. No, you're not paying attention. I said BIG red fish are at Ponce Inlet! Please understand that the 10- or 12-pound fish that I usually refer to as large are not in the same league with the big brood stock that is now wallowing around in the boat channel. On a recent trip in Al Houser's 19-foot skiff, we joined another ... Full Story
August 7, 2009
The slower pace of summertime makes for easy living - Summertime in Volusia County and the living is easy. Fish are jumping and the humidity is high. Out the door in the darkness of morning and the air greets you like warm breath from a wild hog. The forecast of a high temperature in the 90s and a good chance of afternoon rain that began in June continues with no let up expected until late September... Full Story
July 24, 2009
Vol fishing with Dan - Fishing is about the fun - not fancy equipment Many of the good folks who enjoy the Hometown News write to ask me what fishing equipment I might recommend. Usually they don't bother to say where they would be fishing or what they hope to catch. They leave it up to me to guess whether they will be going for marlin or catfish. Of course, there is... Full Story
July 17, 2009
Florida offers bounty of shellfish, get out there - Just back from a fun week in the Keys with lots of snorkeling and fishing. Lots of lobster about, but I was a bit early for the two-day mini season that will be on July 29 and 30 this year. If you have not tried diving for spiny lobster, you should. It is probably a lot less difficult than you may imagine and the payoff makes it well worth it. He... Full Story
July 10, 2009
Mosquito Lagoon makes a darn good fishing hole - With the water in the Halifax still looking like barn paint, Al Houser and I struck out for the pristine waters of Mosquito Lagoon. We put in at dawn at Lopez's Fish Camp and eased out of the no wake zone and into the big lake. The sunrise there is always spectacular as it rises above the thin wisp of a barrier island. Miles to the south the tall... Full Story
July 3, 2009
Sea trout just as good as freshwater brethren - Rainbow, brown, lake, brook, cutthroat, dolly vardan, char, golden and steelhead trout are some of the most sought-after fish in the world. Just as prized as their fresh water namesakes, the saltwater spotted sea trout is the mainstay of inshore fishing in Volusia County. Despite their resemblance to the rainbow and brook varieties, sea trout are... Full Story
June 26, 2009
Doesn't everyone enjoy a good love story? - Do you enjoy a nice love story? Good. Now, let me tell you about my recent trip up to Bing's Landing. That's not the love story I'm talking about, but there is a lot of affection in all my fishing adventures. Bing's is about 10 miles north of my home in Ormond-By-The-Sea and is located on the river at the Hammock. I went there to try and avoid th... Full Story
June 19, 2009
Streams and creeks hold reds, snook and trout - Recently, I encountered countless schools of finger mullet leaving the backwaters of the Halifax while swimming against a strong incoming tide. Those fish must have really wanted to exit that area for them to expend that much energy. No doubt that was the result of the trapped runoff that was left behind by our "storm of the century" in May. When... Full Story
June 12, 2009
Halifax River: Too thick to drink; too thin to plow - Aside from all the other problems it caused, the May monsoons have had a negative impact on inshore fishing. There is extremely high water all around and nasty runoff trapped in the Halifax. If you have been with me for a while, you have seen my many rants on this subject. The bottom line is that the unmonitored contractors who... Full Story
June 5, 2009
A good first mate is not just a spectator - I hope that you enjoyed last week's column about the catch and release of a huge barracuda. That was fun to do and fun to write about. It did bring up a couple points that call for a bit more exploration. One of the great and interesting things about fishing in the inshore brackish waters is that you can never be sure what you might catch. The bi... Full Story
May 29, 2009
Barracuda chase makes for wild ride - The largest barracuda ever caught in the state of Florida was 67 pounds. It was landed in 1949 in the likely spot of Islamorada in the Keys. That record may have been topped in the most unlikely spot of Port Orange this past May 15th. Fishing on the flats near Pelican Island in the shadows of the Dunlawton Bridge, Al Houser hooked, played down an... Full Story
May 22, 2009
Crowded summers make boat safety even more important - As the boating season heats up many will experience problems on the water. With more than 40,000 vessels registered in Volusia County and maybe double that visiting, summers may be more than a little dangerous. Just as with autos, much of the trouble will be the result of speed mixed with alcohol. Operating a watercraft while under the influence ... Full Story
May 15, 2009
Whiting may not be pretty, but they are darn good eating - Quick now, what fish is the most sought after by hook and line in these local waters? Tarpon? Nope. Snook? Not a chance. The unlikely answer is whiting. Not even the famous red fish draws as much attention as the lowly whiting. Every day of the year dedicated anglers, tourists, and occasional casters ply local beaches with the sole purpose of tak... Full Story
May 8, 2009
Enough tranquility already: Let's find some 'ladies' - At times fishing may be a very tranquil endeavor. Spending the day on the water without the interruption of any fish bites can make for a very relaxing day. Not long ago, fishing buddy Al Houser and I decided we had experienced about all of the tranquility that we could handle and headed down to Port Orange for some jack fishing. Each spring the ... Full Story
May 1, 2009
'Read' the surface to learn what lies beneath - If it is actually true that 10 percent of the fishermen catch 90 percent of the fish, it may be because they are better readers. No, I don't mean to imply that they are better able to decipher the ramblings of piscatorial pundits such as myself, but just maybe, that 10 percent is better able to read the water. Being able to recognize tell tale si... Full Story
April 24, 2009
Special finesse required for sheepshead, drum - Lurking throughout the inshore waters are schools of prisoner fish that have made a career of avoiding capture. Wearing the black and white stripes of an inmate uniform, they hole up in large numbers, defying any timid angler. The lucky one who is the successful captor is twice blessed, once for the uncommon fun of the catch, and once for the del... Full Story
April 17, 2009
Fishing with Dan - From the hands of children: remove remote, insert pole A couple of weeks ago, I spent a fun Saturday morning helping out with the Ormond Beach Kiwanis Club's fishing derby for kids. On a perfect morning, around 25 kids and some parents assembled at a lake on the north end of Ormond's great Central Park. If you have not been there, you need t... Full Story
April 10, 2009
Fishing afoot is as fun as fishing a float - Having fun fishing in our inshore brackish waters does not necessarily require a boat. If you have been paying attention to my humble efforts for these past three years or so, you know that I dearly love to wade fish. You may also have noticed that I do as well afoot as afloat. This is the beginning of a long period that will find me stalking the... Full Story
April 3, 2009
Thoughts of hush puppies, cole slaw and such - On a gray morning I found myself fishing between the raindrops up near High Bridge. I was looking for redfish in a place I had found them only days before. On that day, I had landed a 20-inch fish, but had ... Full Story
March 27, 2009
Best fishing time of the year starts right now - If there is such a thing as a fishing season in Florida, it is beginning right now. As the waters warm, all sorts of opportunities open up for the diligent angler. Here in Volusia County, there is a sparkling array of places to try your luck. To the west is the historic St. Johns River, where lunker largemouth bass are legend. Through the year... Full Story
March 20, 2009
Learn how to tie one on for good fishing - Fishing With Dan Ah, Spring, time to begin anew. From your correspondence, I know that many of you have been waiting for the warm up to unleash your inshore angling skills. A few will be trying for the first time, but most of my mail is from recent retirees who hope to recapture the thrill of fishing that they enjoyed in their youth. In the sp... Full Story
March 13, 2009
Big reds are a beautiful sight to behold - I put my boat in at dawn in Tomoka State Park and paused to admire the new dock that was recently completed. That day the wind had been predicted to be in the 10-mph range, but just at sun up, there was not a breath of air. Out in the basin, the surface was glassy smooth. Whenever I am out alone on such a day, I like to take some time and cruis... Full Story
March 6, 2009
Engine problem solved, fish caught - oh what a beautiful morning. - Last week, mine was the only boat on the Halifax on a cool, gray, windy morning not a fisherman or crabber in sight. Not even a pleasure yacht. Wind was out of the west and gusting to more than 20 mph. A great day to do some black drum fishing, but I had bigger fish to fry. The last time I had taken my skiff out, the engine had developed a proble... Full Story
February 27, 2009
Quality over quantity is what you'll get with artificial bait - I often receive inquiries from fishermen who want help switching from natural bait to artificial. The common thread in those queries is that they have tried lures but had no luck. First, you must realize that by switching to plugs or jigs you have eliminated several species and all of the nibblers and bait snatchers. If you are one who must have ... Full Story
February 20, 2009
Throw another pompano on the barbie - Fishing With Dan Lots of small blue fish in the Halifax right now. I have caught them north by the Flagler County line, south of Dunlawton Avenue and downtown Daytona Beach near the Orange Avenue Bridge. During Speedweeks, Al Houser and I fished his Carolina Skiff under the Seabreeze Bridge to no avail. We went there looking for the sea trout ... Full Story
February 13, 2009
Fishermen always looking to 'hook up' - Ladies, there are lots of fishermen out there who are looking to hook up. If you would like a good catch yourself, you could do worse than trolling up an angler. Learn to recognize the signs, and you will be able to spot them in any setting. The guy in the checkout line at the market with that subtle aroma of ... Full Story
February 6, 2009
Oh, what a beautiful morning - On one of those perfect Florida winter mornings I stood on a weathered old dock on the east bank of the Halifax River admiring my surroundings. A sleek sailboat slid by, barely rippling the water on its way to some unknown southern harbor. There was not a breath of wind and at dawn the temperature was already around 60 degrees. Skies were clear... Full Story
January 30, 2009
Make your own fishing equipment to save money - Fishing with Dan There are a few fishing tools not found in tackle shops that have made life easier for me down through the years. One of the best and first was a 30-gallon aquarium bought for a few bucks at a garage sale. Back when I fished with a lot of live bait, the tank solved the problem of getting live shrimp and mullet in the pre-dawn... Full Story
January 23, 2009
Small fish are fun, but bigger is better - Big fish are fun to catch but let's face it, they are sometimes hard to come by. If you have some talent you might expect to catch a lunker about every third trip. You can expect it but you can't guarantee it. Recently, Al Houser and I went to Mosquito Lagoon at dawn to hunt big reds and gator trout. As the sun came up my confidence level soared a... Full Story
January 16, 2009
Rascally fish seem to know when new season opens - The water quality in the Halifax has returned to a more healthy condition. That took five months, but considering the poor tidal flow, that was fairly rapid. After Tropical Storm Fay dropped more than a foot of much-needed rain on our area, a good portion of it wound up in the river in the form of polluted run-off. Now the river is, once more, c... Full Story
January 2, 2009
Inland fishing opportunities abound in cold weather - Inshore Fishing Dan Smith With the new year comes great whale watching and many fishing opportunities for the inshore angler. Spotted sea trout are once again legal to keep and are plentiful. Typically, the months of January and February produce more gator trout catches than any other time of year. Fish live mullet over deep water early and lur... Full Story
December 26, 2008
Next year, stick to the socks and underwear - If you were surprised to receive fishing tackle as a Christmas gift, you need not feel alone. You were certain that the heavy box under the tree was a new bowling ball, but when you opened it and found a cast net, it was difficult to muster a smile. Now you feel an obligation to get out and use it, so you go to the most remote pier you can find s... Full Story
December 19, 2008
A good day of fishing - when you lose count of your catches - "It's eating! It's eating! I got him!" That excited refrain was repeated by me time and again as Captain Leo Hiles only chuckled at my enthusiasm. Just after dawn, we had taken Leo's little Redfisher, the "Blue Ghost," deep into the mangroves. With the tide dropping, the flats in the north of Mosquito Lagoon were holding about 18 inches of water.... Full Story
December 12, 2008
Little reel, big fish, no problem - On a recent chilly morning, I made my way up to Bing's Landing in Flagler County. Although sea trout are still legal there, my target was redfish. Fishing the spoil islands and the surrounding flats produced very little. A couple small flounder and an undersized trout was all that hit for the first three hours. I was using a new Okuma 20A avenge... Full Story
December 5, 2008
Time for a little shrimp dipping - This is the season of the shrimp! On these cool nights while most of us are at home trying to turn down the volume of obnoxious TV commercials, a hardy band of river rogues venture forth in search of shelled gold. Men and women, young and old, the fit and the infirm are all out in chilly creeks far from the urban centers with high expectations of... Full Story
November 28, 2008
Fishing is family friendly and fun during the holidays - I hope everyone had a peaceful and happy Thanksgiving with good food, family and football. It is truly an all-American holiday and easily my favorite. I don't have to make excuses for my poor gift choices and can concentrate on overeating, which I am very good at. Best of all, the kids are out of school and most folks get a four-day weekend so th... Full Story
November 21, 2008
Fishing good today? Don't expect same tomorrow - Trout are hitting throughout the inshore, which is to be expected since they are out of season. The bite should be strong until the New Year when they become legal to keep. While no one might mistake trout for tarpon as line stretchers, you can't find a better companion for cole slaw and hush puppies. I dragged my skiff up to High Bridge recentl... Full Story
November 14, 2008
May be too late for Halifax, but Indian River can be saved - Ponce Inlet is the gateway to two rivers. To the north is the historic Halifax and to the south the legendary Indian. Both are important estuaries of the Atlantic and both are in serious trouble. The shorter of the two, the Halifax, which was connected to the Matanzas River in the late 1800s, has suffered a serious decline in water quality for de... Full Story
November 7, 2008
It's a fish-eat-fish world - When I began fishing this area, my target was the tangle of mangroves that is just south of the Government Cut in the northern boundaries of Mosquito Lagoon. A saltwater novice in those days, I didn't need much talent because fish were abundant. All one had to do was drop a shrimp into the brine and start jerking them up. Of course times have cha... Full Story
October 31, 2008
Our inlets and rivers great for colorful catches - One fish, two fish; red fish, blue fish! Right now bluefish rule our area with good-sized fish schooled up in the surf and in the rivers. Fish Ponce Inlet for fast action, and try the Spruce Creek area for those hard-charging choppers. Cut bait is always best, but anything flashy will attract strikes. A silver spoon or chrome Sea Hawk is traditio... Full Story
October 24, 2008
For the best fish you need a fryer and beer, not a grill and wine - It has been said that Daytona Beach is a quaint little drinking town with a serious fishing problem. I won't comment on the former, but I know the latter to be absolutely true. We who live here in eastern Volusia County love our fishing. With water usually only a few miles from our front door and sometimes only a few feet away, many of us spend c... Full Story
October 17, 2008
A fishing truth: You never know what you're going to get - Golden trout were schooled near the big bridge in Ormond Beach recently. That is not a new breed of fish, but our usual silvery sea trout are now unnaturally gilded by the tannic stained waters of the Halifax River. That waterway is still fouled with run off from Tropical Storm Fay and shows no signs of cleansing itself. This is the disgraceful r... Full Story
October 10, 2008
Hurricanes, alligators and sharks - oh yeah - Volusia County has upped its record as world shark bite capital by surpassing our previous record of 22 bites. No matter that most of those were nips of little consequence, the national media will surely zero in on our little piece of paradise with old stock footage of hundreds of big sharks swimming just off our beaches. It would not serve the s... Full Story
October 3, 2008
Wall walking will yield wonders - New Smyrna Beach's Brannon Park is one of our area's finest spots for wall walking. Under the west end of the big bridge at dawn, I found jacks crashing into bait all along the concrete. The trick is not to cast, but stay at the ready until you see the feeding eruption. If you are fast enough and accurate enough to drop a lure into that action, y... Full Story
September 25, 2008
Try the surf for big reds - With the inshore waters still suffering from Faye run-off, the surf is a better choice to fish. It is the time of year for the big reds to move in, and signs are good that it could happen any day. I went down to the beach a couple times recently and saw lots of bait moving right along the sand. When you go, look for those pods of bait and cast ri... Full Story
September 18, 2008
Live or dead: The right bait will get the right fish - From Port Orange north to the Flagler County line, the inshore water is inundated with freshwater run-off. Fishing will be difficult there until Mother Nature is able to correct the problem. As I have said, this may take a while. In the meantime, if you fish those waters, you might be better served by using natural bait. If you were thinking of ... Full Story
September 12, 2008
Murky water not the best for inshore fishing - The recent weather episodes have caused most of the inshore water to turn from a healthy green to a sickly brown as run-off from the heavy rains inundated our fishing grounds. With that in mind, I took a solo trip to Port Orange, because the closer you get to the inlet, the better the water quality. I slid my skiff in right at dawn under the big ... Full Story
August 28, 2008
Fay made for fabulous fishing - On the first morning the weather front dubbed "Fay" threatened our area, I headed to the river for a bit of wade fishing. As I drove past the beach ramp at Granada Boulevard, I could see that the surfers had also answered the call. The leading edge of a storm always prompts me to take up a rod, for nothing sounds the meal whistle for fish like a ... Full Story
August 21, 2008
Cleaning fish requires a good knife and the right skills - A while ago, we talked about getting started fishing the inshore. The one thing that will convert you from a casual to a dedicated angler is learning to properly prepare your catch for the table. Fishing is a great hobby that offers fresh air, exercise, excitement, being one with nature and the challenge of outsmarting a wild animal in its own ha... Full Story
August 14, 2008
Tackling tackle: the proper equipment for inshore fishing - Most of the electronic inquiries that I receive are from folks seeking help with the subtleties of beginning inshore fishing. Many questions are about where to fish, but most deal with tackle. I always try to answer each of the letters to the best of my ability, so this column is for all of you who do not take the time to write. If you take away ... Full Story
August 7, 2008
Fishing grand slam is within reach - Once you have gained experience and refined your fishing methods, you naturally begin to set your sights a bit higher. Many seasoned anglers leave home with but one thing in mind: The Inshore Grand Slam! The ultimate! In Volusia County, that means you have caught a redfish, spotted sea trout and a snook all on the same outing. While that may seem... Full Story
July 31, 2008
Smoked fish dip and a day with the kids: Good times - Mosquito Lagoon has schools of sea trout if you know where to look. The best bait for them is half-dollar-sized grunts. If you don't know where to look, then bait up several lines and start drifting north of the pole and troll zone. Once you hit them, anchor up and spend the day. Big reds are holed up inside the mangroves in the northern lagoon, ... Full Story
July 24, 2008
Plenty of action in the local waters - Sharks at the inlet! Sharks in the river! Tarpon in the lagoon and tarpon in the basin! There are big fish and big fun in the inshore waterways. Last week, Al Houser and I made a trip to Mosquito Lagoon to target trout. Concentrating on the area near the pole and troll zone, we found plenty of trout, but all were less than the 15-inch minimum. On... Full Story
July 17, 2008
The thrill of the chase is sometimes enough - On a recent morning that was typically too warm at dawn, I eased my skiff onto the shallow water flat as quietly as possible. It was one of those rare summer days that begins with the rising sun shrouded in lingering clouds - the kind of clouds that make the split-second instance of daybreak last for an entire hour. Not a breath of wind stirred t... Full Story
July 10, 2008
Boat ramp fees will hurt local environment and economy - Area fishermen are nearing another hit by their elected officials. New Smyrna Beach is considering charging a boat launch toll at public ramps to join its shortsighted neighbor, Port Orange, where that measure has already passed. Years ago the tollbooths on the beach virtually eliminated locals from surf fishing, effectively reserving our beach f... Full Story
July 3, 2008
Enjoy the pursuit of delicious shellfish - Scallop season opened on July first on the west coast and is best from Homosassa up to Steinhatchie. My own favorite spot is out in the Crystal River inlet and about two miles south. You may snorkel for them in the clear, shallow water or, if you put in enough time, you may find them in water so skinny you might dip them up right from the boat ... Full Story
June 27, 2008
The dangers of fishing: Watch out for hooks! - Those fabulous ladyfish are appearing nightly at all area bridges for your dancing pleasure. Go early or late to hook up with one of the fastest, tail-shaking, bait-bombers in our area. When you find them, expect their escorts to be the equally showy snook and jack crevalle. From New Smyrna Beach north to High Bridge, expect all of those silver s... Full Story
June 20, 2008
Don't miss a chance to visit Disappearing Island - Now you see it, now you don't! Disappearing Island is a mystical and numinous specter in the inshore waterway. Just inside Ponce Inlet, at first glance it appears to be a sand bar, a very large sand bar that shows itself for about five hours a day. Back in the early 1970s, when one of the more popular Daytona Beach T-shirts read "Save the bales,"... Full Story
June 13, 2008
The plague of a bad day of fishing - Snook season is closed until Sept. 1, so that makes them catch and release only. The release part is almost a given. Recently, I watched a fellow in a nearby boat break off on a big ole hog only to have the same happen to me a few moments later. Snook, like tarpon, usually take care of the release. Tarpon have begun to show up in the rivers, and... Full Story
June 6, 2008
To have fun, you must be safe in the water and on the boat - Schooling trout are thick just off the sand bars in Mosquito Lagoon and providing the guides with entertainment for their parties. The bluefish are throughout the inshore and are about as large as they get on average. Trout are holding steady in the Halifax as they did all winter, but flounder have been disappointing so far. The few that I have ... Full Story
May 30, 2008
A fishing escapade with 'The Lure Man' - A couple of weeks ago, it was my good fortune to be asked along on a fishing trip with Larry Lucas. Larry lives in Holly Hill and runs a floral wholesale house. That is his vocation; his avocation is collecting antique fishing lures and using them. I welcomed the invitation as a very special opportunity. It is not often that you get to fish with ... Full Story
May 23, 2008
The fishermen's dilemma: Predicting inshore tide - One of the things most perplexing to inshore fishermen is the prediction of tides. Seems simple enough, right? The tide in the ocean moves at such a steady rate it may be predicted with accuracy years in advance. The inshore waters are a different matter entirely. The tidal rivers, creeks and estuaries seem to operate by a different set of rules.... Full Story
May 16, 2008
Try fly fishing during flounder season - You may recall that a few weeks back I reported the unlikely catch of a small barracuda in a stream just off the Tomoka River. Last week, something of a similar nature happened while I was wade fishing with Frank Moore of Ormond Beach. We were in the Halifax near Tomoka State Park when Frank hooked a fat, 15-inch trout on a diving plug. That meas... Full Story
May 9, 2008
The fishermen's dilemma: Predicting inshore tide - One of the things most perplexing to inshore fishermen is the prediction of tides. Seems simple enough, right? The tide in the ocean moves at such a steady rate it may be predicted with accuracy years in advance. The inshore waters are a different matter entirely. The tidal rivers, creeks and estuaries seem to operate by a different set of rules.... Full Story
May 2, 2008
Learn the waters where the fish hang out - If you have been following me for a while as I relate my fishing experiences in the Volusia County inshore waters, you know that one of my pet peeves is the poor water quality of the Halifax River. I attribute that decline to the tidal flow blockage that resulted from the careless bridge construction. I am happy to report that right now, the wate... Full Story
April 25, 2008
It's the best time for wade fishing - This is my favorite time of year. The water is beginning to warm, and I can comfortably get back to wade fishing. Fishing from either my power skiff or my little rowboat is good sport, but my greatest enjoyment of the outdoors comes when I am wading. Easily the most eco-friendly method and with fuel being so costly these days, it makes sense in s... Full Story
April 18, 2008
The waters are good in Volusia County - I was pleased to help out with the Kiwanis Kids Fishing Day April 5 at Ormond Beach's beautiful Central Park lake system. The kids were enthusiastic, even though the fish were not. The prize for biggest fish went to young D.J. from Port Orange and most fish caught went to Ormond Beach's own Amanda. Both of those young folks showed a lot of promis... Full Story
April 11, 2008
Longing for the old days on the beach - Now is the time to head to the beach for perfect fishing in perfect weather! The spring weather in Volusia County is about as good as it gets, and the surf fishing is not far behind. I was a novice saltwater fisherman when I spent my first spring here back in the early 1970s, and I was amazed to see a mile of fishermen standing practically should... Full Story
April 4, 2008
Wild rides with the jack crevalle - The best way to describe the sound of a feeding school of jacks is an explosion. If you fish the inshore waters often enough, at one time or another, your solitude has been shattered by foraging jack crevalle. It will begin as though someone has tripped a switch and lasts only a few seconds, but the noise is unmistakable. The jacks will rip throu... Full Story
March 28, 2008
Secrets of the cheeky trout - Spotted sea trout are still staying steady, with good catches coming in from the north and south. My last three trips have produced a limit of four fish to keep and several more to throw back. Thank goodness for the trout, because in that time, I have caught little else. A few jacks and a couple blues would be the only other fish to hit my offeri... Full Story
March 21, 2008
The best times to fish - When is the best time to fish? The short answer is whenever you are able to, but, in truth, there are prime hours and conditions, depending on your quarry. If you put that question to most people who fish in the inshore waters, they will reply quickly: During the incoming tide. That's fine, although most of us know that one "pat" answer will not... Full Story
March 14, 2008
Give the Cuban Yo-Yo a try - Reds are deep in the inlet boat channel, but you cannot get bait down to them for the bluefish. That's not particularly a bad thing, because blue fishing is so much fun! I fished south of the Dunlawton Bridge at the mouth of Miller's Creek and caught lots of jacks. They were not very big, but once again, it was lots of fun. A little further nort... Full Story
March 7, 2008
Escape to the waters during Bike Week - Nothing is sweeter than sitting lost in the mangroves, listening to the distant hum of Bike Week. The metro Daytona Beach area is truly a paradoxical place to live. Our home is one of the special event capitals of these United States, and yet, within a few minutes, we are able to lose ourselves in the very diversified local waterways. Creeks, la... Full Story
February 29, 2008
Leaving a small footprint on the earth - A fishing rod is always along for the ride in my Chevy Blazer because I must be prepared should the urge to fish strike me. That may happen at any time, and on a beautiful Saturday morning recently, I was taking a leisurely tour of the Loop north of Ormond Beach when the calling hit me. Easing along the blacktop, I could see fish pushing water in... Full Story
February 22, 2008
Time for spring cleaning - A good way to spend some downtime on these cool and windy days is to do a bit of maintenance on your fishing equipment. If you are like me, you count on it being ready when you are, and during peak fishing times, you pay little attention to upkeep. Changing line is always a thing I neglect, and when I do, I like to remove the spool and spray the... Full Story
February 15, 2008
Share early fishing memories at Antique Tackle Show - Down through the years, a lot of fishing tackle has passed through my hands, as I am sure it has yours. Some of it was memorable; most was not. Some lures that I have owned hold a special place in my heart for the many thrills they have provided me. One such lure is a red and white Heddon Lucky 13. When I was a lad of 14 and living the good life... Full Story
February 8, 2008
Fishermen are a rare breed - One thing is certain: Every fisherman must have a good sense of humor. On almost every trip, something will happen to either make you laugh or cry. I am sure that I posses a good sense of humor, but I am just as sure that at times, I cross the line into the smart-aleck territory. On a recent perfect winter day, my fishing buddy, Al, and I were dr... Full Story
February 1, 2008
Fishing paradise awaits not far from home - Winter is a great time to fish Volusia County's wonderful variety of freshwater lakes and rivers. If you are new to the area and grew up fishing for largemouth, bream and crappie, you are home again. Of course, the county's western boundary is the legendary St. John's River. That big dark water ditch that begins in the swamps near Melbourne and f... Full Story
January 25, 2008
Dan Smith - Volusia - Boat laws in need of a makeover Last week I talked about the touchy subject of fishing boat owners versus code enforcement. Now, allow me to speak for the boaters and say that none of us wish to see our neighborhoods cluttered and unattractive. I suppose it comes down to a matter of opinion as to just what constitutes an eyesore. To me, a sleek... Full Story
January 18, 2008
A battle of the boats - Many boaters in Volusia County, and I suspect in much of the rest of the state, have a common problem: Where and how to legally park their fishing vessel. Unreasonable laws and uneven enforcement have turned many of us into scofflaws. Otherwise law-abiding citizens are being forced into a life of crime by unfair parking laws and those who must e... Full Story
January 11, 2008
A fishing trip not soon forgotten - Spotted sea trout season re-opened Jan. 1. Fishermen are allowed to keep four fish per person per day with a minimum length of 15 inches (the tail pinching may work here). You may keep only one that exceeds 20 inches in length. All of that is the bad news. The good news is spotted sea trout are everywhere! There is more trout in the river than ... Full Story
December 28, 2007
Good news! Spotted seat trout season starts Jan. 1 - Spotted sea trout season re-opens Jan. 1. You are allowed to keep four fish per person per day with a minimum length of 15 inches (the tail pinching may work for you here). You may keep only one that exceeds 20 inches in length. All of that is the bad news. The good news is they are everywhere! There is more trout in the river than I have seen... Full Story
December 21, 2007
The season for fishing - Snook season is closed until Feb. 1, but that should present little hardship. Cold water sends snook to parts unknown or at the very least causes them to become lethargic. Volusia County is on the northern edge of the snook's range, and they are a precious commodity locally. Even if you are fortunate enough to land one within the four-inch slot (... Full Story
December 14, 2007
The perfect fishing gift is not easily found - Ladies and gents, if you have not done it as of yet, now is the time to finish your Christmas shopping. Some of you men may find yourself in uncharted waters trying to pick something for your lady from the lingerie department, while the ladies may flounder hopelessly adrift in a sea of fishing tackle. My wife and I have engaged in this annual ho... Full Story
December 7, 2007
No tall tales, just the real deal - There is a reccurring theme in the comments I get from my faithful readers: Do I actually catch all the fish that I report in this column? While that is an innocent enough inquiry, the fact is it implies that I might be telling lies in print. As a lifelong fisherman, I have caught my share of whoppers and told a few as well, but not in print. Not... Full Story
November 30, 2007
Tails from the water - Recently, I spoke with Billy Grubb, the former Daytona Beach car dealer who now lives on the Halifax River on the Ormond Beach barrier island. He told me of an unusual fish that had been hanging around his dock. At first, he thought it might be an oscar (the fresh water aquarium fish), because it was fat and bream-like. After consulting with fri... Full Story
November 23, 2007
Creek waters have all the action - As you stalk the inshore waters in search of big fish, do not ignore the creeks. All varieties of fish that thrive in brackish waters may be found in the creeks of eastern Volusia County, but the one that draws me there most is the snook. Your chances of catching one improve dramatically as soon as you leave the rivers or bays. Our larger creeks ... Full Story
November 16, 2007
Drum fishing gets good when the weather is bad - When you awaken to one of those cold, windy, rainy fall days that is not fit for man or beast, cheer up! You should be thinking about one thing: black drum! You could turn the nastiest day into a thing of beauty if you chose to do a bit of drum fishing. To feel that powerful pull that only a black drum will provide, you need to bring lots of de... Full Story
November 9, 2007
Fishing guru keeping it simple - Every now and again, a delivery truck will stop at my house with a box or package that I am not expecting. It turns out, lure companies like to send me samples of their latest product. This is one of the perks of doing what I do. Opening these mystery boxes is as close to a child's Christmas morning as I can come these days, and just like Christm... Full Story
November 2, 2007
Forget your worries and your strife in the great outdoors - Wading through the cool water at dawn, wearing only cutoffs and flip-flops, I watch for any ripple that might give away the presence of a redfish. The eastern sky behind the barrier island is just beginning to turn shades of orange and crimson as the morning sun climbs from the sea. I can't help but think how fortunate I am at the moment and we a... Full Story
October 26, 2007
Best weather of the year brings great fishing - The high water that was left behind by the much-needed monsoons that we all recently experienced is still affecting the fishing in the Halifax River. A fisherman's best bet is to go south for the most action. Baitfish is thick south of the Orange Avenue Bridge, and lots of jacks are feeding there. That alone, is enough to take me there, but if you... Full Story
October 19, 2007
Row v. wade? - The battle lines are drawn! Well, not really. Unlike that ongoing conflict between the political left and right, the row versus wade I refer to is pretty civil. Some folks prefer a set of oars or a paddle to get to the fish, while others strike out on foot to find their prey. For more than 30 years, I have blended the two. I row my little 8-foot ... Full Story
October 12, 2007
Get the fishing while it's good - Neighbors, drop what you are doing, head to the beach and cast your baits to the wind. The surf is where all the action is these days as the water temperature drops and the beach comes alive with bluefish. The blues are a good size and are nailing almost anything you throw, but be sure to use a steel leader. Even that will not ensure that you won... Full Story
October 5, 2007
The mystery of the disappearing wildlife - Recent high waters allowed me to take my 17-foot skiff into the narrow canals that feed the north side of the Tomoka Basin. Somewhere back in that great marsh, I encountered a family of five or six otters. They barked at me and mock-charged my boat in order to convince me to leave, which I did. It started me thinking when was the last time I had ... Full Story
September 28, 2007
Heart-stopping action abounds in the waters - Big trout are in the river, and big reds are in the surf. Life is good for fisher folk in Volusia County! You had best get to it quickly in the inshore, though. Experience tells us that soon after a torrential rain, as we have experienced recently, the bait will leave and the bite will disappear. Usually, right after heavy rains, we get good fishi... Full Story
September 21, 2007
Fishing is great at the beach - If you find the thought of push-poling a boat a mile or more to follow a school of redfish a bit intimidating, this may be your time. If the talk of crankbaits, twitchbaits and the like leave you a bit bewildered, this may be your time. Maybe you are not sure what to look for to recognize big reds pushing water on the flats. Well, cheer up, Bucky;... Full Story
September 14, 2007
Mull it over before you skip the mullet - What would you say is the most consumed fish on the planet? Tuna? Nope. How about salmon? Maybe snapper? No. It is nothing as lofty as that. The truth is, the lowly mullet is the most eaten of all the fishes. They range throughout the temperate climates of the world in fresh, brackish and salt water. They are readily available since they are one o... Full Story
September 7, 2007
Go light if you want a heavy fish - Lately, I have received several letters from newcomers to our area who are struggling to switch from fresh-water fishing to the subtleties of our own brackish water environment. I have a lot of sympathy for them, for I was confronted with the same set of problems nearly 40 years ago. Almost everyone who is new to salt water arrives with the notion... Full Story
August 31, 2007
Snook deliver fishing thrills and chills - If you were waiting for snook season to re-open so that you might take home a few for the table, the new state regulations will leave you in a very bad mood. If the fun of catch-and-release is what moves you, the recent hot local snook action is made to order. The split snook season opens Sept. 1 and runs through Dec. 15. The new slot size limit i... Full Story
August 24, 2007
Fish and fun is everywhere - It is late summer, and the fishing and the weather have both heated up nicely. Plan to be out early or late, and success will be yours. In Mosquito Lagoon, early morning is all about big redfish. When the water is glassy watch for them behind the islands or on the flats inside the pole and troll zone. Most redfish are too large to keep, but you wi... Full Story
August 17, 2007
Try bridge fishing before it's too late - Bridge fishing, one of Florida's great traditions, is sadly nearing extinction. In days gone by, photos of happy fisher folk, standing elbow to elbow with rods bent, did much to lure new residents to the Sunshine State. Alas, fishable bridges are now rapidly becoming a thing of the past. Everyone is in too much of a hurry these days to enjoy watch... Full Story
August 10, 2007
A luring morning with an old friend - Recently, I enjoyed a glassy-calm morning on the Halifax with antique tackle collector Larry Lucas. We put in early at High Bridge and worked the riverbank south with various plugs and jigs. Several redfish were spotted moving along the east bank, but none would hit our offerings. A big snook took Larry's silver minnow lipped plug. The big line si... Full Story
August 3, 2007
Water-friendly munchies for the hungry fisherman - If you are invited along on a serious inshore fishing trip, please give careful consideration to the food you bring. Only carry the bare minimum on board, unless otherwise instructed, and never pack anything that will drip, spew or ooze. Fruit is OK to bring if you stick to an apple or pear, but nothing juicy such as an orange and certainly no ban... Full Story
July 27, 2007
Do your part to keep the waters clean, safe - The shrimp did run in the Halifax as predicted, bringing lots of folks out to try to cast net a shrimp feast. Although the run was strong, the average was small. I caught enough of the larger ones for a boil and froze plenty of bait, which will encourage me to do more bottom fishing. At the height of the run, I met a couple of fellows from Vero B... Full Story
July 13, 2007
Here's what's going on in the waters - I found a large school of big reds cruising in the Tomoka Basin last week, but they were too spooked to hit a lure. If you are able to find them in deeper water, they will be easier to approach. Al Houser used a dead shrimp to land a 25-inch beauty off the front of my boat in the deep water down Port Orange way. Black drum are eating in Miller Cre... Full Story
July 6, 2007
Small things come with a bigger bite - I fished Tomoka Basin last week, and my buddy on the other end of the boat caught a bonnet shark and a milk shark within an hour, which is a bit unusual for the basin, I thought. Years ago, I attended a fishing seminar in New Smyrna Beach where I spoke to a scientist who told me of dragging a net in Strickland Creek to survey specimen. He told me ... Full Story
June 29, 2007
Who needs a motor when you can paddle? - A couple Saturdays ago, I joined the regulars who wade fish at Tomoka State Park. I admire these men who fish on foot by choice and am a bit ashamed of my own usual reliance on a motorized skiff. I arrived just in time to watch Bill Noble of Daytona Beach do a masterful job of playing down a giant red fish on light tackle. The yard-long fish was r... Full Story
June 22, 2007
The perfect lure vs. the lucky lure - I enjoy receiving reader inquiries because it lets me know you are paying attention. Most readers ask which lure to use in order to catch a lot of fish. The real secret to success with any lure is to throw it as near as possible to a big fish. Seriously, folks, every lure on the shelf will work at one time or another. Granted, the shelves are fu... Full Story
June 15, 2007
Strong winds can't scare off the sturdy fisherman - Two straight months of high winds capped off by Tropical Storm Barry has tried all our patience. There is no other natural occurrence that affects fishing like wind. No matter what method we use to pursue our favorite pastime, windy conditions will cause us to change our plans. While some of us sat it out dockside, others forged ahead. The very b... Full Story
June 8, 2007
Trolling success not just for those with patience - It is apparent that of the more than 40,000 boats registered in Volusia County, less than 50 percent of them are utilized in the sport of fishing. Of the folks who I know who boat but do not fish, their most common excuse is that they do not have the patience. I submit to you that fishing does not require patience (a trait that I possess little of... Full Story
May 25, 2007
Chumming it up makes fish hungry for the bite - Have you ever walked down the midway at a fair and been drawn to the irresistible aroma of peppers, onions and sausages frying? Maybe you have awakened in a campground to the delectable smell of cooking bacon. If you have, chances are those great smells immediately made you hungry. If that happened, you were responding to a type of "chum." Just as... Full Story
May 18, 2007
The waters are full of tales of woe, success and exasperation - If you fish a lot, every now and then you are bound to experience the unexpected. Recently, I was out at dawn to wade the Halifax for flounder. After only a few casts, a very large flat fish grabbed my Mirro Lure. At the end of its first run, I set the hook hard only to have the line snap. Instead of breaking near the lure, as is the usual scenari... Full Story
May 11, 2007
Making a believer out of the bass fishermen - Inshore fishing with Dan Smith Recently, I guided a half-day trip for loyal reader Butch Owens of Ormond Beach. At dawn, we dropped my skiff in from the public ramp at High Bridge and began working the riverbank to the south. Butch is a native Floridian who has spent all of his life fishing the fresh water in pursuit of largemouth bass. This wo... Full Story
May 4, 2007
Fishing for the frisky flounder - Inshore Fishing with Dan Smith Oh happy day! Those delicious flounders are back. Hopefully this year will be as productive as 2006. Last year was very exceptional. Last year, I managed to wade up 38 flatfish between the end of April and the beginning of July. While I have previously reported this fact, I may not have told you about the amount ... Full Story
April 27, 2007
Fishing brings a father and son together - Inshore fishing with Dan Smith We all have friends we rely on from time to time, those we may call on for help when needed. We treasure those relationships, and if all things are equal, those same folks know they can call on us. Recently, I received one of those calls from Roland Via, mayor of Holly Hill, a long time friend and associate. Roland'... Full Story
April 20, 2007
Deep-water fishing and the black drum - Inshore Fishing with Dan Smith Lately, there has been a huge hatch of blue crabs throughout our area. North of Granada, it's hard to avoid stepping on a wading angler. The scurrying crustaceans are the size of a quarter. It was the best hatch I have seen in years. This will bode well for the crabbers, both professional and recreational. It sho... Full Story
April 13, 2007
Safety tips while having fun in the water - Inshore Fishing with Dan Smith Boating in Volusia County is a yearlong thing, but now through the summer is when most weekend boaters take to the waters. With nearly 40,000 boats registered locally, accidents are bound to happen. Of course, the law requires certain safety standards, but there are many ways to get hurt in a boat. Let's talk abou... Full Story
April 6, 2007
Catching the stone crabs - Inshore Fishing with Dan Smith I hope you have been able to wet a hook in the recent past week, because the fish are biting all around the area. Trout and reds, are hitting well if you know the spots. While you are looking, the bluefish will keep you company, as they are thick in the river as well as the surf. Snook are feeding if you fish la... Full Story
March 30, 2007
Spring in the Bluefish - Inshore Fishing with Dan Smith Spring is upon us and the flowers are in bloom. The birds are singing a colorful tune. This is it, the spring weather that brought most of us to Florida. The fish are biting most everywhere you go, so get out and take advantage of it. This might be a good time to use one of those sick days you have been saving u... Full Story
March 23, 2007
The deterioration of oysters - Inshore Fishing With Dan Smith Hanging around bars is something I could have stopped doing years ago, but I just can't seem to give it up. It is probably a habit I will continue until my last breath, because there is no better place to get hooked up than at an oyster bar. An oyster reef is by far the premier inshore fish attractant, acting as ... Full Story
March 16, 2007
Fishing for the overgrown bluefish - Inshore Fishing with Dan Smith There is a fearsome creature that stalks our freshwater lake, shrouded in mystery and secrecy. Its name: shellcracker. Yep, that's right. The shellcracker is an overgrown bluegill with the attitude of a barracuda. This is not the bream of your childhood where you sat watching a little fish nibble at your bait while... Full Story
March 9, 2007
The fishing drought - Inshore Fishing with Dan Smith I fished pretty hard down at Mosquito Lagoon recently and didn't have much luck. My buddy Al Houser and I went there in search of trout and found a few,but nothing to brag about. The cuts through the spoil islands did give up a few fish, but not big enough to keep. The fishing was better around the islands near ... Full Story
March 2, 2007
Inshore Fishing - with Dan Smith Fishing for the sheep head Went down to Edgewater to put in at the Municipal Ramps behind the police station. My intention was to fish the docks along the west side of the Indian River with trout as my target. Beautiful morning, great water quality, but no trout except for a couple undersized. Midmorning found me back north a bit... Full Story
February 23, 2007
Some fishing failures for the skeptics - If you get tired of hearing about the fish I catch, you will enjoy this column. I am often asked by skeptics if I actually catch all the fish I write about. The answer is, of course. If you pay attention, however, you will know that I write my failures into the column as well. I am now in a streak where nothing is working. Fishing from the south... Full Story
February 16, 2007
The fish vs. the racecar - It is always a bit surreal to fish in the Daytona Beach area during Speedweeks. The background drone of high-powered engines provide such a contrast to the quiet time one spends on the water. While we search for our own subtle thrills with rod and reel, across town, men risk their lives seeking the thrill of the ultimate speed. So it has been sinc... Full Story
February 9, 2007
The early fisherman won't be catching the red these days - If the pre-dawn wakeup is the part of fishing that you like the least, this is your time. When the water cools, there is no need to rush out into that chilly morning air, especially if you are targeting redfish. Reds will go deep until midday, then move onto the skinny water flats to take advantage of the few degrees of warmth that the overhead su... Full Story
February 2, 2007
Get out some grease and a toothbrush for winter cleaning maintenance - It has been said that a saltwater fisherman's worst enemy is saltwater. That being true, February is the best time of year to do some maintenance. In Florida, we are blessed with the ability to fish year-round in fairly comfortable weather, but when the air chills and the wind blows strong from the north, it is time to give a little attention to t... Full Story
January 26, 2007
Sheepshead and giants roam the seas - Now is the time to go to Ponce Inlet in search of the crafty sheepshead. Each winter, those who know the drill will bring home a 15-fish limit of those tasty prisoner-striped porgies. Be forewarned, this is not an easy endeavor. First, you must gather at least a 5-gallon bucket of oysters or clams for chum. Then, you must brave the winter ocean, w... Full Story
January 19, 2007
Shrimp mystery stumps, but does not discourage - When will the shrimp run? This is a question I field at least once a week. How about now or tomorrow? Maybe next week? As I look back through my fishing notes compiled over the last 20 years, I find that I had cast-netted a nice catch on Jan. 17, 1986 and another on Jan. 31, 1987, Jan. 13 and 14, 1988 and so on. Not an exact science, but it shows... Full Story
January 12, 2007
Here's the fish report and a promise to present the truth - Whiting and bluefish are in the surf, though they are on the smallish side. Use shrimp for the former and mullet for the latter. While on the beach, watch out for the Portuguese man of war that have washed up. Don't let the small size and pretty purple color fool you; even the tiny ones can deliver a nasty irritation. The annual shad run is b... Full Story
January 5, 2007
Fishing guru busts the myth of the gator trout - Prowling the coastal waters of eastern Volusia County is a creature so fierce the mention of its name causes the hearts of grown anglers to flutter: gator trout! Part-fish, part-reptile, part-myth, it is a fish that everyone has heard of, yet few have possessed. A mullet-killing machine that is capable of delivering a blow akin to the pop of a 9... Full Story
December 29, 2006
Avid fisher looks back on a year of ups and downs - 2006 was a good year for inshore fishing. Not a great year, but good. Big trout did not turn on during January and February as we hoped, but they were exceptionally strong during the usually slow warm summer months. Early spring found a harbor seal basking on the Ponce Inlet jetty rocks, a rare sight for some lucky anglers. The seal was obviously ... Full Story
December 22, 2006
Don't give cheesy gadgets for Christmas; give of yourself - This week, I would like to suggest the perfect fishing gift. No, it is not too late for this gift, not at all. I can tell you it is not a knife with a light in the handle or one of those gizmos that is supposed to make it easier for you to throw a cast net. It certainly is not an electrically operated reel or a machine that tells you what color lu... Full Story
December 15, 2006
Mud and muck make a tough trip well worth the trouble - In last week's column, I promised, no I guaranteed, to tell you a place where you could catch a big redfish even if you have never caught one before. That's putting myself out there, for if one thing about fishing is certain, it is that it is uncertain. Those of us who enjoy a reasonable amount of success must, from time to time, come crashing bac... Full Story
December 8, 2006
Special strategy to catching redfish revealed - Redfish in Volusia County are legendary. At a time when reds have overtaken largemouth bass as the most sought after game fish in the country, we are very fortunate to be at the center of that power shift. If you watch outdoor TV on the weekends, you may have noticed that in the past eight to 10 years, redfish tournaments have outnumbered bass tou... Full Story
December 1, 2006
Relationships lurk for serious fishermen - A symbiotic relationship has been achieved by many fish and marine organisms. The brightly-colored clown fish would be easy prey were it not for it's partnership with the stinging sea anemone. The wrasse that cleans the mouth of the goliath grouper and the gobi fish and shrimp all have established a mutually beneficial society. There are many more... Full Story
November 24, 2006
Be on the lookout, fish give signs as to their whereabouts - The action now is all at the beach. From Canaveral National Seashore to Flagler Beach, the surf is popping. With the changing temperatures pelagic species are following close behind the huge bait schools that are heading south. For this type of fishing, timing is everything. Last week, I left my home at Ormond By The Sea just after dawn to run a c... Full Story
November 17, 2006
Tomoka River offers educational sites and great fishing - Now that the heat and humidity of summer has dissipated some, you might consider a fishing and walking tour of the historic Tomoka River. That waterway just north of Ormond Beach played a major part in the settling of our area. The first European arrivals to the Florida coast searched for a navigable stream to take them inland away from the salt a... Full Story
November 10, 2006
Foreign plant suffocates beloved lake - On the extreme western edge of Volusia County lies a natural wonderland named Lake Woodruff Wildlife Preserve. It is one of our country's premiere areas for bird watching, with an eclectic collection of waterfowl and birds of prey. It is the place where I once counted 21 alligators swimming about in the middle of the lake. It is truly a gem in our... Full Story
November 3, 2006
Triumphant tales hard to live down - What a great time to be out on the water! This time of year, we can fish all day without having to seek shelter from the harsh midday sun of summer. The fish know it, too, for they are also turned on by the change in temperature. You can get black and blue either in the surf or the river - black drum and blue fish. Mackerel time is here, with Span... Full Story
October 27, 2006
Local haunts provide rich history - When Moe asked Curly what he was fishing for, Curly replied," I'm just fishing for the halibut." "Hey watch your mouth Porcupine!" Moe retorted. "What do you have so far?" Moe asked. "I have a haddock," was Curly's answer. "Here, take two aspirin and call me in the morning." Those Stooges, a constant stream of wisdom for my young mind back in the ... Full Story
October 20, 2006
Don't judge a fisherman by its denim and leather - The blue fish have come inshore and you can catch them until you are blue in the face in Spruce Creek. Flounder are at the inlets, either Ponce or Mantanzas. Fish for them close to the inlet with long, thin strands of cut bait. Use just enough weight to allow the bait to move along the bottom with the current. The flounder lay in wait for their p... Full Story
October 13, 2006
'Tis the season for light-colored lures - The surf is coming alive with bluefish. Finger mullet is always the best bait, but a white jig works well. Actually, anything that will move and flash will attract those fierce predators. As I recently reported, redfish are best along the banks of the Indian or Halifax rivers. That is still holding up quite nicely. Fish a red and white diving plu... Full Story
October 6, 2006
Fake lures bring in real winners - If your goal is to catch redfish, fish the banks of the Indian and Halifax rivers. Al Houser and I have worked the back waters from Haulover to High Bridge but can only find reds in the rivers. The Main Street Bridge is giving up some nice spadefish. They are our edible tropicals that resemble sheepshead. Over at Sea Breeze Bridge, I recently sto... Full Story
September 29, 2006
Mullet play vital role in water - Redfish are in the Ponce Inlet boat channel for those with live bait and patience. Remember, do not anchor in the channel; big brother is watching. Reds are also in the north end of Mosquito Lagoon and are best on a red-and-white Mirro lure. Flounder are still very strong around the Tomoka Basin and are best on a light-colored jig. Some blues are ... Full Story
September 22, 2006
Fishing hot spot discovered, and you'll never guess where - These days, fishing is slower than a Corvette followed by a cop, but it always slows down just before the season change. As soon as the water temperature drops 6 degrees or so, fishing will pick up in the river and in the surf. Jacks have all but abandoned the bridges where they were so thick all summer, leaving us to spend some quality time with... Full Story
September 15, 2006
Time spent fishing keeps youth entertained and out of trouble - Fishing has slowed up lately, though we caught and released a 31-inch red on High Bridge. The big fish put up quite a battle on the 10-pound test line and light tackle. Trout are still plentiful in Mosquito Lagoon, but you will catch a dozen to get one keeper. The New Smyrna Beach bridges are holding nice mangrove snapper. Those tasty little scrap... Full Story
September 8, 2006
Lucrative snook spots scouted out - Snook, rabalo or saltwater pike - whatever you may call them, the line-sided predators that ply our local waters are certainly piscatorial dynamite. For sure, we are on the northern border of the warm water-loving species; the most northern of which I have ever caught was at Matanzas Inlet. Several years ago, a scientist working for the state did ... Full Story
September 1, 2006
Fish spectacle indicates healthy waters - I hope everyone was able to get a look at the recent acrobatics provided by the tarpon that were feeding in the surf. It was a spectacle and sight seldom seen these days. Tarpon that seemed to average in the 50- to 70- pound range tore into schools of menhaden with the savagery and power only they posses. I can only liken it to a major fireworks d... Full Story
August 25, 2006
Change in the air brings different fishing techniques - Down Mosquito Lagoon way, the fishing is excellent. That pristine body of water that is so famous for red fish is teaming with sea trout. This time of year, the trout bite is supposed to slow, but there is no evidence of that happening as of yet. Al Houser and I released at least 40 one morning this past week, keeping six for the table. Toward the... Full Story
August 18, 2006
Modest, homemade boats satisfy the will to fish - Man's quest to escape the land and move out over the water has led to all types of strange vessels. In my recent interview with Don Bostrom, 90, he told of making his first boat out of discarded metal and pitch. It was not too stable, he allowed, but it did serve the purpose of getting him out to the center of the Halifax. My first motorized skiff... Full Story
July 28, 2006
After the fun of fishing comes the fun of eating - Fishing just might be the world's best sport or hobby. It provides an opportunity to be one with nature, enjoy some fresh air, and, with a little skill and some luck, a healthy meal for your family. Hard to beat! Preparing your catch for the table is a most important part of the overall experience. Fishermen who don't know the proper way to prepar... Full Story
July 21, 2006
Boating behavior 101 - Showing good manners on the water is as simple a matter as it is on land. Common sense and respect for your fellow man should guide you. No one should have to be told how to behave with a boat, but since I am witness to so many acts of impropriety, I must give it a shot. To act the fool in a boat can be, at best, annoying, and at the worst, life-t... Full Story
July 14, 2006
The weather is hot and the fishing is cool - Summertime and the living is easy. Fish are jumping and the humidity is high. Time to slow our speed to match our weather. The weather-worn surf fishermen are on the beach by sunup to catch puppy sharks. By 10, they will beat a retreat across A1A to clean a couple whiting for lunch and to wait. The intense midday sun bears down on the oblivious to... Full Story
July 7, 2006
The delectable, evasive Florida lobster - If you have not made your reservations in the Keys for the upcoming sport lobster season, you had better get to it. Last July the two-day mini-season drew an estimated 35,000 divers and snorkelers. All came to take advantage of the two-day season the state gives sport fishermen the last Wednesday and Thursday in July. Two days to wrangle lobster b... Full Story
June 30, 2006
Dinner from the Halifax River? - I suppose the question asked of me most often is the one about do I really eat the fish out of the Halifax and how safe is it. The question is usually accompanied by a face that tells me the questioner would not consider such a thing. As I have reported many times, I have seen the water quality go down. Down but not out. The government agency repo... Full Story
June 23, 2006
Get set for scallop season - Locally, the trout are still on the bite down in Mosquito Lagoon, though you will catch 20 to get a couple big enough to keep. Flounder are holding up and are good around the bridges. Reds in numbers have finally showed up in the Tomoka Basin but they are very skittish, and also don't seem hungry. Over on Florida's left coast, July 1 will mark the... Full Story
June 16, 2006
A conversation with the dean of fishing - Don Bostrom is the acknowledged patriarch of the city of Ormond Beach and a lifelong fisherman. As Don nears his 90th birthday, I asked him to sit with me to share some of his angling successes that began in the early '20s... Full Story
June 9, 2006
Shrimp are big with creative anglers - There is an old saying that the person who can predict the shrimp run will have the world at his feet. Okay, it's not an old saying. I just made it up, but even if I did, there is a lot of truth in it. The migratory movements of the wily little crustacean are among the world's best-kept secrets. After 30-some years of charting and tracking them, I... Full Story
June 2, 2006
INSHORE FISHING WITH DAN SMITH - Fishermen in Volusia County may be the most fortunate in the world. The legendary St. Johns river that runs along the western edge of the county is, without a doubt, the most famous largemouth bass fishery in the United States, while on the east side Mosquito lagoon has recently become the world's number one spot for bull redfish. All our freshwate... Full Story
May 19, 2006
Flounder are flat-out running everywhere - INSHORE FISHING WITH DAN SMITH Is your life floundering? If the answer to that question is "yes," take heart, Bunky. This is your time. The flounder have arrived! Big time! The annual spring flatfish run is in full swing and all signs say it will be a good one. Last year was off quite a bit after a great 2004, which was one of the best in recent ... Full Story
May 12, 2006
Experience a boat ride on the Silver River - Dan Smith Inshore fishing It is a rare happening for me to launch my boat without some type of fishing gear on board. Never been much of a boat rider. The exception is the once or twice a year when I take friends or family to the Silver River. It is a trip I recommend to one and all. Everyone knows about beautiful Silver Springs, and most have be... Full Story
May 5, 2006
A battle lost, but a great time won - Dan Smith Inshore fishing Hemingway was once quoted as saying the only true sports are auto racing, bull fighting and mountain climbing. All others are just games. I have always wondered why he omitted fishing. He was, himself, a dedicated angler who penned one of the greatest fishing epics ever. I realize fishing is not life-threatening, at least ... Full Story
April 21, 2006
'Trout' can give you a good battle - Dan Smith Inshore fishing The mainstay of Volusia County fishing is the spotted sea trout. In different locations, they are known as weakfish, speckled trout, sea trout and a few others, but here they are just "trout." They were obviously given that name for their resemblance to freshwater brook trout, which is a member of the salmon family. Our tr... Full Story
February 9, 2006
Thieving osprey is highlight of recent drum trip - Seahawks 1, Stealers 0.
That was the score at Ormond's Thompson's Creek last week as I drifted for black drum. Full Story
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