Fishing Advice

[Lstyle]

I'm an avid freshwater fisherwoman and the hubby purchased a fishing license and all the saltwater gear last time we came down to PC. Needless to say, he didn't have much luck fishing at the jetties and I was bored out of my mind because I didn't have my license and being the law-abiding citizen that I am, I opted to just sit back and watch. I'd like to do a little fishing when I come down in two weeks. Any advice on where to go? Are there any piers left?

[Midwest For Now]

I'm by no means an expert with Salt Water fishing but have spent the past 10 years trying to become more proficient. In PCB I have fished the piers, jetties, bay and over in Panama City several areas where there should have been, and maybe there were, fish. Our best catches were from the Dan Russell Pier, which is still under reconstruction. There is a pier in St. Andrews Park but it is so short that unless the Pompano are running in the shallows I'm not sure you would be able to get out far enough.

Live bait, especially if you can catch it near where you are fishing, is one of the better baits but Shrimp work as long as the local crabs are out of town. Otherwise you end up feeding a family with an insatiable appetite. Artificial lures like the straw/water bobber or Gotcha hook ups seem to do well if Spanish, King or Blue Fish are around. Easier to use these lures off of a pier or high structure. All of the other areas just seem to produce small fish but again that could be us.

I'm sure the Captain will have better advice.

[Lstyle]

Thanks...I would be happy going on one of the deep sea fishing excursions, but the hubby says you just get caught up in other people's lines.

[Midwest For Now]

That is very true if you go on a "Party Boat", which usually has 40-50 people, cheaper but you get what you pay for. A true Charter boat experience has about 6 people, which I've done, and is a lot of fun but about $100/person.

[Lstyle]

Yeah...now if I only had about 6 people to join me...that would be great!

[Midwest For Now]

That's the only way. You actually get to catch fish, enjoy the experience and hang out with people who encourage each other to land their fish because there is no competition with 40+ other people. Everyone knows they will get their turn and many more to come. Very much worth the extra few bucks, if you are going the open sea fishing route. Once the new pier is in place I suspect that will be a very affortable/productive option.

[coach]

If yoy want to go on a charter, contact one of the charter services (we have had good luck with Rob Robinette's boats). tell them how many in your party (1,2 etc) and he will put you on a boat with room. You get to meet alot of really nice people (who is friendlier than a fisherman) and usually catch alot of fish. You don't need a license or gear, it is all included. Have fun.

[Lstyle]

Sounds good...I'll check it out. Do you know if Rob Robinette has a website?

[coach]

Lstyle

I don't know about a website, but one of his boats is called "Gotta Believe" try googling that. The phone number is 850 234-9409. He is located in the Treasure Ship marina on Thomas drive. Very professional and a great guy.

[Lstyle]

Thanks...I'll check out the prices and see if I can swing it on my teacher's salary