A Few Firsts in 2013

I've been traveling for work a considerable amount in 2013.  In fact, I've spent more days in FL than I have in NC.  It's been a big strain on the family, but evenso, my loving and understanding wife has granted me the opportunity to get out on the river several times.  In addition to my local haunts, I've managed to make a few trips out in the salt both in FL and NC as you'll see below ... 

Early in the year, I hired a kayak fishing guide while working in FL to gain quick access to a kayak and learn a few tips on Tampa bay fishing opportunities.  It was a slow day, but I managed 1 small redfish.  This is the first redfish I've ever caught from a canoe/kayak, and only the 2nd of my life (that I remember).  In July, during our family beach trip to Pine Knoll Shores, NC, I hooked up with kayak guide Tim (NCPierman) Taramelli.  Tim is a fellow www.ncangler.com member and all around great guy.  He took me out in one of his yaks in Queens Creek, near Swansboro, NC.  Again, I caught 1 redfish, surprisingly on a very similar lure to what I used in FL (white/gold paddle tail jig).  I also caught a ladyfish and a shark on finger mullet. Overall, a good trip.  I highly recommend Tim if you're looking to do some kayak fishing near the crystal coast of NC. 

In addition to the salt water excursions, I also targeted and caught white bass for the first time this year.  In early April, I fished the Eno river near Durham during the annual white bass spawning run.  I caught most of my fish (including my first ever white bass) trolling 3" rapala xraps in green and blue in the river channel behind the canoe.  The water was stained, but the fishing was great.  I got into a few schools and took home 6 decent sized fish to fillet.  White bass isn't nearly as good to eat as crappie, but it still made a great meal and I enjoy sharing my catch with the family.

 

Last of my firsts came in early August, when I got out with my fishin' bud Mack.  He recommended fishing a section of a river I'd never seen.  He thought there may be a few Roanoke bass in this flow ... and he was right!  My first Roanoke bass ever was an NC citation size fish, measuring just over 11".  I caught 10 or so that day, including another citation, plus ~20 largemouth.  Between the two of us, the Roanokes were landed using a variety of lures (bettlespin, crankbait, spinnerbait, curly tail grub, rapalas, and mepps spinners).  These are hard fighting fish for their size and a joy to catch. 

 

Although, there weren't necessarily any firsts involved (except for our first ride in a new-to-me Mohawk tandem), I also got to take my son out a few times and show him some of my favorite flows.  Here are a few shots of our adventures so far in 2013.

I have a feeling there may be some great trips this fall, and I can't wait.