A Quartet of Legals! Close Encounter of the "Flat" Kind... 6/22

[Wingnut]

So Phuong (Blackwater) tells me that he needed a break. Haven't been fishing much at all. He's been traveling a lot for business (check out his Georgia report in the "Out of State" section). On top of that, he just bought a new house and the wife is pregnant with their first child... CONGRATULATIONS my friend! Maybe you'll get to go fishing again in a few years. :LOL:


I haven't hit the salt for a couple of weeks and was starting to hear the surf calling out to me. Day dreaming in my office and having major Flattie withdrawals. So I called up Surf Master Mike (Kichigai1) to see if he wants to join Phuong & I for another Sunday surf fishing safari. Phuong have never caught a Halibut before and the "Dynamic Duo" must combine our powers to put him on his first Butt. The only fish that Phuong has ever caught in the surf are Perch... by day's end, he would add a new species to that list and in grand style.

Mike and I plotted our Northern course for the day according to the tide charts and the recent Grunion run. Negative low tide early in the AM so we wanted to hit our best low tide spots first. Then work our way back South and hit a few other areas for the incoming tide. So with a new challenge in hand (putting Blackwater on his first Hali) and a game plan in place, we were ready to go.

On the road at 4:00am Sunday morning for a two hour drive to our first stop. We were a little late to fish the grey light but found the conditions at the first location almost unfishable anyways. There was so much salad in the water that it was impossible to throw any kind of artificials at all. We found a few clear pockets and gave it a try for about an hour but the vegetation won the battle in this area. It was frustrating because we saw quite a few large boils from baitfish being chased but couldn't make any kind of effective presentation due to the salad bar. So we packed up and headed for our next stop.

Got to the next area around eight and it was already getting warm. I was thinking to myself that the Valley will be an oven today. Put on some sunblock and hit the surf. Much better conditions greeted us here with warmer water temperature and very little salad. The surf was mild and water the clarity was very good. We worked the shore line with a variety of hardbaits. We each were using a different style or pattern lure to see what the Flat Boys were responding to this morning. As it turned out... just about everything.

Half an hour into the session and here comes the action! Enjoy the fish porn.

Blackwater gets the first fish of the day. Phuong was throwing a 5/8 green-mack pattern Krocodile and nailed his first ever Hali. Not only that it was his first, but it was also a LEGAL! Great job buddy, even though you were screaming like a little girl the entire time you were pulling that thing in. :ROFL:
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut2/Wingnut3/Picture008.jpg

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Mike & I were on top of him and poaching his spot before Phuong can unhook and put the fish in the sack. :LOL: We quickly hung a double of shorties standing side by side. The Flatties were stacking up on this particular structure ambushing baitfish.
Look how clear the water was.
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut2/Wingnut3/Picture037.jpg

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The three of us continued to work this short stretch of beach for the next couple of hours and absolutely killed them. The Flat Boys were thick and willing to play. We saw quite a few of them getting airborn chasing baitfish. I actually saw a legal Flattie streaked through the clear water right in front of me chasing a baitfish... awesome sight. It's amazing how aggressive these fish are comes feeding time. We "matched the hatch" and it was game on! Unbelievable Hali bite with some quality fish mixed in with the shorts.

I got my personal best of FOUR legals in one day. All I can say is wow, the spike in water temperature, the recent Grunion run and with a litlle bit of luck and good timing makes for a deadly combination. The total Flatty count for the three of us were no less than amazing.
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Here I'm fighting my best Flat Boy of the day, a hair short of 28 inches. What a battle, I only kept one legal all day, but this bad boy earned his freedom.
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut2/Wingnut3/Picture021.jpg

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Oh yes, it wouldn't be complete surf fishing report without a Perch pic. ;)
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The Hali action was white hot! An epic surf session to say the least.

Surf Master Mike (Kichigai1) was on top of his game as usual. Coaching and helping Phuong throughout the day. Mike, thanks for all your help my friend... always a pleasure fishing with you. When Wingnut & Kichigai hits the surf together good things happens!!!

Mission accomplished, we put Blackwater on his first Butt AND a legal Butt in one day. We each kept a legal to enjoy the fruits of our labor and I needed to learn hands-on how to filet one anyways instead of looking at diagrams or watching videos.

The total fish count:

Wingnut:
9 Flatties - (4) legals 23" - 23" - 25" - 27"
(5) Shorts
(3) BSP

Kichigai1:
6 Flatties - (2) legals 22" - 24"
(4) Shorts
(1) BSP

Blackwater:
3 Flatties - (1) legal 23"
(2) Shorts

We made a few more stops later in the day and scouted some areas that looked like it had some good potential for future missions.

The funniest part of our day was when Phuong was working the surf and Mike warned him that there was a large hole near the area that he was wading in. Phuong kinda brushed him off and what happens next? The next thing you know, he was up to his eyeballs in the surf. His wader filled up and he staggered to the shore... simply hilarious. I've been there, done that. I almost tossed him my PFD. Be careful out there everyone!

What a great day in the surf... life is good and Poseidon has been generous.

Until next time, God speed to all...

Arthur (Wingnut) :Envious:

"Live with Intention."

Extra materials:

Weapons
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut2/Wingnut3/Picture061.jpg

Ammo
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut2/Wingnut3/Picture059.jpg

Protection from the elements.
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut2/Wingnut3/Picture062.jpg

Safety gear (PFDs).
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut2/Wingnut3/Picture060.jpg

This is the one I wore today (manual deployment).
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut2/Wingnut3/Picture002.jpg

A couple of our stops for the day.
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Wingnut Pug gets revenge! :Twisted:
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Surf Master Mike gives step by step instructions on how to filet a Butt.
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut2/Wingnut3/Picture052.jpg

What a rookie.
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Parting shot... say ahhhhhhhh. This is the one 23" legal that I kept.
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[YAHOO!]

no salmon this time?

[Swivel]

dang man once again you make it look so easy. I went out yesterday for about 5 hours of nothing. used the same lures and some drop shots for about two hits and nothing else. maybe i just gotta put in more time. Good work out there! Gives me hope. ( at this point ill take anything.)

[tacklejunkie]

Daaaaaaaang! Very nice guys! Nice goin on the first butt Phuong!

Looks like a KILLER day on the water fellas. Love it when you see them in the water! Simms Sunblock?! that must have been $20! :LOL:
Keep it up dudes. Great pics and report.

Edit:
Hey I see you took a liking to the TJ Sardine paintjobs ;)

[Cangler]

This is getting sickening .... ;)

WTG dude !

[fish_sauce]

congrats on the PB Arthur!

gotta make my way further up north one of these days...the legals all look so much healthier up there!

did you fillet'd your fish with a kitchen knife?!? If you use a specialty fillet knife blade (with a flex) the cut will be cleaner, and you'll put less pressure on the meat (which will help it retain its texture and not get all mashed up and break apart)...

i love your toys! they're so nice....im green with envy!!!:Envious:

[CAPT'N]

Nice Butts!

What a great way to spend a summer day, at the beach, fishing, and of course CATCHIN!

Capt'n

[GOTFISHUES]

threre is no denying that the time and energy you display towards your fishing pays off, its unbelievable the consistancy and quality of your fish, the post's are exceptional and informative, i will attempt to mimick your surf techniques threw your post's and comments, as well as attempt to come close to a post as intriguing as yours. good luck ( as if you need it ) to you and all that share wet lines with you. congrats, another impressive display of the love for fishing.

GOTFISHUES

[Shock]

Nice job out there.

I picked up a couple kroc lures like that the other day..

[Seng90806]

i usually dont fish the salt until after the summer but from all your reports i need to get out there very soon....great job out there like always!!!

[steve092]

Now that's what fishing is all about!

Great job slayin' the halis!

[Brian_GSC]

Another awesome report Arthur! :Applause:

Tell Blackwater that even with a kid it is still possible to get out there and wet a line....although it won't be too often! ;)

[Liteliner]

Wow those are some beautiful fish. Im convinced I have to make the trip up north to get a legal butt now. Thanks for the awesome report.

[blackwater]

Daaaaaaaang! Very nice guys! Nice goin on the first butt Phuong!

THANKS TJ! Fishing with you for BSP was fun but catching flatties in the surf is awesome!

I did have some expert help out there with Surf Master Mike (Kichigai1) and Arthur. They both are like machines out there... Dedicated fisherman. Mike even called in work sick so that he could go fishing.

BTW - Arthur failed to mention he filled his waders two times as well... Thank God he had his PFD on! While hiking to the spots, Mike tried to yank the rip cord a few times but Arthur was a little quicker then him... thanks for the great trip guys...
BW

[JSAUCE818]

killing it as usual,...good job fellas.....i soon need to make a trip out to the surf...

[exfactor]

WTG Arthur and gang on a nice sunny NorCal outing. Gonna have to get Wingnut some stilts if he keeps trying to wade out as far as he does. Living on the edge! Do you paint up your LC's with those dots? Got to get an Auto pilot for my truck to keep up with you. Hope to fish with you soon. Mikey

[bergie berg]

unbelieveable as always :Shocked:

[boxl0bster]

awesome job as always arthur!

congrats phuong on your first legal!

[kewlwhip]

Wingnut you slayer! hiding out wherever there's water!

[tr0psn4j]

Nice fish Arthur. What are you filleting that fish with?!

[bonitoboy]

Hi Wingnut,

Congratulations on the halis. Quick question: what do you use to draw the spots on your LC? I use a sharpie but the spots fade after a few casts.

[kpn]

Hi Wingnut,

Congratulations on the halis. Quick question: what do you use to draw the spots on your LC? I use a sharpie but the spots fade after a few casts.

Bonitoboy,
Go to Michaels Crafts store and get a black PAINT PEN medium size. It never fade away.

KPN.

[kpn]

Great job as always guys.
Congrats Phuong on your first and legal hali.

KPN.

[Catch more <><]

Awesome time on the water. Good jobs guys. Looks like a lot of fun. Great Report.

[BIGRED KILLA]

Way to go out there once again lol you have the fishing Gods over you were ever you go thanks for the pics and report keep it up out there.








Bigred

[one_leg]

Nice report! Nice job getting Phuong on the Butts as well.

I know that this is gonna sound pretty noob'ish, but doesn't Bill Varney say that you really don't need to get so far out that you risk having your waders flooded? I thought that he fishes in sandals or tennis shoes and never even gets his feet wet?

Just be careful out there. Don't want to have to say, "I knew that guy.", someday in the future.

Arthur, once again, nice report.

O_L

[crappie stalker]

I have never surf fished and I am very interested in getting into it.. I hope those weapons are not needed to do the job...Quite a pricey arsenal you have there Arthur.. I live about 10 minutes from MDR.. Is there good surf fishing in that area? I am gonna get out there and give it a shot.. What are some of the lures I should go armed with? I have made up my mind that I need to meet the surf>>:Twisted::Twisted:
Thanks for such an awe inspiring and informative post..

CS

[Badbeat]

I'm running out of things to say each time I read one of your reports bro.
Most of the time, I'm usually speechless anyway.
Wingnut Nation is Da BOMB! :cool:

btw, what is that lip thingy majig that you are using to lip the halibut?

Nice job to all of you.

Binh

[Wingnut]

no salmon this time?
Nope, I didn't catch lightning this time. ;)


dang man once again you make it look so easy. I went out yesterday for about 5 hours of nothing. used the same lures and some drop shots for about two hits and nothing else. maybe i just gotta put in more time. Good work out there! Gives me hope. ( at this point ill take anything.)
It's being prepared combined with good timing & a bit of luck. Keep on trying, you will find success before long. :cool:


Daaaaaaaang! Very nice guys! Nice goin on the first butt Phuong!
Looks like a KILLER day on the water fellas. Love it when you see them in the water! Simms Sunblock?! that must have been $20! :LOL:
Keep it up dudes. Great pics and report.
Hey I see you took a liking to the TJ Sardine paintjobs ;)
Simms makes some quality products. One of these days I'll break down and get their G4 Guide Series waders, gotta save up first. ;)
I usually don't put the Sharpie to the LC's. But there are days that the Metallic Sardine color may not match the conditions properly. So I put the Sardine dots on the Baitfish Silver or the American Shad pattern. Improvise and experiment with different applications... the results will surprise you.


This is getting sickening .... ;)
WTG dude !
Don't hate me because I'm beautiful... :LOL:
Thanks man, we saw some big YFC's in the water running in packs that day but couldn't get them to play. I know that's your favorite surf fish. :cool:


congrats on the PB Arthur!
gotta make my way further up north one of these days...the legals all look so much healthier up there!
did you fillet'd your fish with a kitchen knife?!? If you use a specialty fillet knife blade (with a flex) the cut will be cleaner, and you'll put less pressure on the meat (which will help it retain its texture and not get all mashed up and break apart)...
i love your toys! they're so nice....im green with envy!!!:Envious:
Shoot me a PM when you decide to head North... I'll give you some :Secret:...
The knife I was using is a Wusthof Culinar, it's great knife, really sharp. But it's not a filet knife... the blade doesn't flex. I do need to get a good filet knife, just haven't been cleaning very many fish. :LOL:
As for the toys, they're just toys, the extra bling makes no difference in the surf. The Halibut doesn't know the difference between a Loomis and a Ugly Stik. ;)


Nice Butts!
What a great way to spend a summer day, at the beach, fishing, and of course CATCHIN!
Capt'n
Thanks Scott, it was a splendid day... just about perfect.


threre is no denying that the time and energy you display towards your fishing pays off, its unbelievable the consistancy and quality of your fish, the post's are exceptional and informative, i will attempt to mimick your surf techniques threw your post's and comments, as well as attempt to come close to a post as intriguing as yours. good luck ( as if you need it ) to you and all that share wet lines with you. congrats, another impressive display of the love for fishing.
GOTFISHUES
Very kind words... thank you. When I first started surf fishing, some six or seven months ago, I learned by reading all the reports. Picking up little things here and there and learning new things every time that I hit the surf. And I was lucky enough to have surf fishing veterans like Dana (Fisherman 57) and Mike (Kichigai1) lending me their knowledge and support. That is why I try to help others on the board to experience the same success. I cannot divulge everything that I know, because a lot of information were passed on to me in strict confidence. Plus some things are more enjoyable when you discover it or figure them out for yourselves, it's much more satisfying than having it handed to you. Unless you're a poacher or a meat fisherman, then you don't care how or where you get the information. :Evil:


Nice job out there.
I picked up a couple kroc lures like that the other day..
The 5/8 green-mack Krocodile is one of the most effective lures to use in the surf. Work it nice & slow, the Hali likes the sporadic action and the flash.


i usually dont fish the salt until after the summer but from all your reports i need to get out there very soon....great job out there like always!!!
There is quality fishing in the surf all year round. You just have to approach it in different ways. The fish have to eat all year right? They just have different feeding habits. Success comes to those who are willing to put in the time to understand these patterns.


Now that's what fishing is all about!
Great job slayin' the halis!
Thanks Steve. :cool:


Another awesome report Arthur! :Applause:
Tell Blackwater that even with a kid it is still possible to get out there and wet a line....although it won't be too often! ;)
Thanks Brian. Between his booming business and the newborn, trust me, Phuong will be missing in action for quite awhile. But where there's a will, there's away... right Brian? ;) :Envious:


Wow those are some beautiful fish. Im convinced I have to make the trip up north to get a legal butt now. Thanks for the awesome report.
The fish up North are much stronger fighters... right down to the Perch. Gotta be the cleaner water and more baitfish.


THANKS TJ! Fishing with you for BSP was fun but catching flatties in the surf is awesome!
I did have some expert help out there with Surf Master Mike (Kichigai1) and Arthur. They both are like machines out there... Dedicated fisherman. Mike even called in work sick so that he could go fishing.
BTW - Arthur failed to mention he filled his waders two times as well... Thank God he had his PFD on! While hiking to the spots, Mike tried to yank the rip cord a few times but Arthur was a little quicker then him... thanks for the great trip guys...
BW
Phuong, you did great out there my friend. You were retrieving those lures a little too fast at first but when you settled down and took your time... success! Congrats on your first legal Hali, you are now officially hooked!
Mike called in sick to go fishing?!? :ROFL: But he went fishing with you, his boss... so does that mean YOU called in sick too? That's hilarious! :Envious:
About getting wet, you know what I always say... If you don't get wet surf fishing... you're not trying hard enough. ;)
And you guys need to LEAVE my frickin' PFD alone, one of these days you're really going to set it off! :Evil:


killing it as usual,...good job fellas.....i soon need to make a trip out to the surf...
Get out there as soon as you can Jesse, the big Butts are calling. :D


WTG Arthur and gang on a nice sunny NorCal outing. Gonna have to get Wingnut some stilts if he keeps trying to wade out as far as he does. Living on the edge! Do you paint up your LC's with those dots? Got to get an Auto pilot for my truck to keep up with you. Hope to fish with you soon. Mikey
I go where the fish are... shallow or deep, I follow. ;)
A black Sharpie does wonders for a LC's character.
I'm harder to follow than people realize... hahaha.


unbelieveable as always :Shocked:
Thanks! :D


awesome job as always arthur!
congrats phuong on your first legal!
Thanks Ernie, Phuong wants to fish with ya again. He's gaining more confidence in the surf now.


Wingnut you slayer! hiding out wherever there's water!
Can't imagine a better place than the surf to hide out buddy. :Envious:


Nice fish Arthur. What are you filleting that fish with?!
The wrong knife Chris, Mike was hogging the filet knife the entire time. I'll be getting a good filet knife here very soon.
Are you going with us this weekend? Give me a call. :cool:


Hi Wingnut,
Congratulations on the halis. Quick question: what do you use to draw the spots on your LC? I use a sharpie but the spots fade after a few casts.
The dots that I put on with a black Sharpie lasts all day. Make sure that it's a Sharpie, not an off brand. Also, read what KPN wrote, a dot with acrylic paint works wonders too. ;)


Bonitoboy,
Go to Michaels Crafts store and get a black PAINT PEN medium size. It never fade away.
KPN.
Great idea! :Thumbs Up:


Great job as always guys.
Congrats Phuong on your first and legal hali.
KPN.
Thanks Khanh, those Castaic Stripers are still waiting for you buddy. :D


Awesome time on the water. Good jobs guys. Looks like a lot of fun. Great Report.
Good times, lots of fun.


Way to go out there once again lol you have the fishing Gods over you were ever you go thanks for the pics and report keep it up out there.
Bigred
Poseidon has been very kind indeed, I need to sacrifice a Sea Turtle to him soon. :LOL:


Nice report! Nice job getting Phuong on the Butts as well.
I know that this is gonna sound pretty noob'ish, but doesn't Bill Varney say that you really don't need to get so far out that you risk having your waders flooded? I thought that he fishes in sandals or tennis shoes and never even gets his feet wet?
Just be careful out there. Don't want to have to say, "I knew that guy.", someday in the future.
Arthur, once again, nice report.
O_L
Bill mainly fish with bait from the sand. Perch & Corbina cruise the shallow water looking for Sand Crab and other bits of food in the immediate surf line. There are Halibut in the shallow water also, I've caught some in knee deep water quite often. When I first walk up on the surf, I always stand on the sand and work the first set of surf first, and then work my way out further. If I happen to see a structure (holes) out in the distance and I think that I can get out there to work it, you bet I'm gonna try and hit it if the conditions allow it.
The bottom line is, know your limits and always stay in your comfort zone. Practice your waders escape routing from time to time and use safety gear such as PFD's and wading sticks if it makes you feel safer.
Most importantly, ALWAYS BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS and EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED OUT THERE.

Thanks for your concern Alan, and I too, wouldn't want to ever have to say "I used to know that One Leg guy... he used to go Abalone hunting."


I have never surf fished and I am very interested in getting into it.. I hope those weapons are not needed to do the job...Quite a pricey arsenal you have there Arthur.. I live about 10 minutes from MDR.. Is there good surf fishing in that area? I am gonna get out there and give it a shot.. What are some of the lures I should go armed with? I have made up my mind that I need to meet the surf>>:Twisted::Twisted:
Thanks for such an awe inspiring and informative post..
CS
Marina Del Rey is a great place to start surf fishing. Ask Steel Gary, he knows that area well. Read the surf fishing article by Dana (Fisherman 57), it is very detailed and informative for anyone just getting into surf fishing. I'm currently working on writing an article for FNN regarding surf fishing to help answer the many questions that I frequently receive.
Good luck out there! :cool:


I'm running out of things to say each time I read one of your reports bro.
Most of the time, I'm usually speechless anyway.
Wingnut Nation is Da BOMB! :cool:
btw, what is that lip thingy majig that you are using to lip the halibut?
Nice job to all of you.
Binh
Wingnut Nation? Very amusing Binh. :Envious:
The "lipper thing" is called a Boga Grip. There are many immitations out there but the Boga Grip is the best. Protects you and the fish, especially for C&R. Always try to keep you hands, fingers... away from the eyes & gills of any fish you plan to release. In the case of the Halibut, also be careful not to damage the tail fin. A split tail fin means infection and certain death. Before you play the game, know the rules... and be kind out there. ;) :Cool:

[troutdog]

Awesome report and results Wingnut...time to start the guiding service;) Congrats on all the nice flatties!


TD

[tacklejunkie]

Awesome report and results Wingnut...time to start the guiding service;) Congrats on all the nice flatties!


TD

No kidding huh! We need a surf fishing guide service out there. Haven't seen anything like that yet..

[FishNFurious]

Damn Art, you guys are killing me! Seriously, you and Kichigai should start up a surf fishing guide service, you guys are legends. :cool:

See ya in Vegas on the 4th of July for the World Series of Poker. Good luck at the main event my friend. Are you going with Phuong and where are you guys staying?

[Tikka]

Jeez Arthur...nice job on the Hali's!!!!!!
You got a better bite than me...I went slightly south of you and had beautiful conditions, but only 4 undersized Halis in an hour, then it shut down completely!
I am always amazed at how the bite turns out (or doesn't!).
How did you find the Firewire braided line for casting....I use spinning gear and always wanted to try it!
All the best
Tikka
"Born to fish, forced to work"

[Fisherman57]

Geez.... here I am all warm and fuzzy over my sierra trip and then ya gotta go and post this report and make me jealous! :Head Bang:

Outstanding day guys.... congrats Arthur, Phuong and Mike on another successful outing!.....wish I coulda joined you as it looks like the Hali's were wide open!

Good job "Wingnut Pug".. gotta love the Raccoon Hat... :ROFL:

Hope to see you all at "Legends II"!!!!


Dana

[CrabMan]

WINGNUT,

That's the most awsome post I've ever seen! Such great pictures, info on how to catch butts, on what baits to use and almost were to go!:D

Thanks for such an informative and generous post. It must have taken you a few hours to put it together--and we're all a little more knowledgeable because of it!

You are so right about the way that I fish with light-line close to shore. Although I have some luck catching halibut, and some big ones close in, specifically targeting them like you do is much more effective and reduces unwanted:D by catch.

One thing we've all learned by reading posts and reports is that there are many ways to sucessfully fish. Just surf fishing alone you can light-line live baits, medium-line hard baits, heavy gear for sharks and so on. There's no right way just a lot of great ways to get down to the beach and have some fun.

I guess the bottom line is just get out there and try something different--you'll be amazed at how well they may work.

By the way I was talking with my buddies in SB today and one of the guys in your Silver Salmon pic (Mark) said he also caught a salmon but didn't have a camera--can I tell his mom he was telling the truth?:Rolls Eyes:


BV

[sansou]

Arthur, Phuong & Mike: you guys definately set the standard!! Love the report & pics....you guys should collaborate and write a book about local surf fishing! It would be a hit!!!!

[Nhatster]

Simply a wicked day in the surf brother.
It's about time you started fileting some butts. :Twisted:
Tell Phuong that my first legal is bigger than his! :LOL:
See ya all this Saturday night at Binh's birthday party. :cool:

[Wingnut]

Awesome report and results Wingnut...time to start the guiding service;) Congrats on all the nice flatties!
TD
You're too kind Aaron, but no guide service in my future.
You can't teach people luck. ;)


No kidding huh! We need a surf fishing guide service out there. Haven't seen anything like that yet..
Look for Kichigai Surf Fishing Guide Services... coming soon. ;) :D


Damn Art, you guys are killing me! Seriously, you and Kichigai should start up a surf fishing guide service, you guys are legends. :cool:
See ya in Vegas on the 4th of July for the World Series of Poker. Good luck at the main event my friend. Are you going with Phuong and where are you guys staying?
One of these days, Mike may entertain the idea... but no such wild notion for me. :Envious:
See you in Vegas Vince. Let's see if I can make it further than I did last year. I promised Dana if I make it to the final table, that I would wear my Team 57 shirt. :cool: Phuong will be there too, but I have my own room... I don't share rooms with anyone when I'm in Vegas. ;) :Secret: :Twisted:


Jeez Arthur...nice job on the Hali's!!!!!!
You got a better bite than me...I went slightly south of you and had beautiful conditions, but only 4 undersized Halis in an hour, then it shut down completely!
I am always amazed at how the bite turns out (or doesn't!).
How did you find the Firewire braided line for casting....I use spinning gear and always wanted to try it!
All the best
Tikka
"Born to fish, forced to work"
No Salmon running in our spot David? ;)
Yes, the Halibut bite can be finicky sometimes. It can turn on and off in an instant.
I've been wanting to give the Fireline Crystal a try for a while and finally did it on Sunday. I didn't care for it at all. Poor abrasion resistance, poor knot strength, hard to manage, I've never had so many bird's nest before. :Evil: So frustrating that I changed out both of my baitcasting spools after the first couple of hour. Maybe it might work better with the spinning gear, but it just didn't work out for me. I'm going to give Spectra a try next.


Geez.... here I am all warm and fuzzy over my sierra trip and then ya gotta go and post this report and make me jealous! :Head Bang:
Outstanding day guys.... congrats Arthur, Phuong and Mike on another successful outing!.....wish I coulda joined you as it looks like the Hali's were wide open!
Good job "Wingnut Pug".. gotta love the Raccoon Hat... :ROFL:
Hope to see you all at "Legends II"!!!!
Dana
Great report on the Sierra trip Dana, sorry that I could get away and join you guys up there, maybe next year.
Mike & Phuong will both be there at Legends II. :cool:


WINGNUT,
That's the most awsome post I've ever seen! Such great pictures, info on how to catch butts, on what baits to use and almost were to go!:D
Thanks for such an informative and generous post. It must have taken you a few hours to put it together--and we're all a little more knowledgeable because of it!

You are so right about the way that I fish with light-line close to shore. Although I have some luck catching halibut, and some big ones close in, specifically targeting them like you do is much more effective and reduces unwanted:D by catch.

One thing we've all learned by reading posts and reports is that there are many ways to sucessfully fish. Just surf fishing alone you can light-line live baits, medium-line hard baits, heavy gear for sharks and so on. There's no right way just a lot of great ways to get down to the beach and have some fun.

I guess the bottom line is just get out there and try something different--you'll be amazed at how well they may work.

By the way I was talking with my buddies in SB today and one of the guys in your Silver Salmon pic (Mark) said he also caught a salmon but didn't have a camera--can I tell his mom he was telling the truth?:Rolls Eyes:
BV
Ladies & gentlemen... I give you Bill Varney Jr. The master of light-line surf fishing. When I first started surf fishing, before I even made a single trip out to the beach with a fishing rod, Dana sent me a copy of Bill's book. I read it from cover to cover. It gave me a pretty good idea of what to expect and helped me prepare for my new journey into the world of surf fishing. Excellent read Bill, and I enjoyed attending your seminars also.

Bill is right, there is no "one" correct way to fish the surf. The styles and techniques are as vast and diverse as the anglers that hit the beaches. Keeping an open mind to all the different concepts is the difference between getting good and great results every time you go out there.

BTW Bill, Mark & Ken are gentlemen of the surf. If they tell me that they caught a Marlin out of the surf I would believe them. ;) :Envious:
But it would be nice to see some pics. :LOL:
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut2/Wingnut3/Picture.jpg


Arthur, Phuong & Mike: you guys definately set the standard!! Love the report & pics....you guys should collaborate and write a book about local surf fishing! It would be a hit!!!!
A book about our surf fishing adventures would be fun to write. :cool: :D
Maybe when I'm old & gray I'll write one. ;)


Simply a wicked day in the surf brother.
It's about time you started fileting some butts. :Twisted:
Tell Phuong that my first legal is bigger than his! :LOL:
See ya all this Saturday night at Binh's birthday party. :cool:
I had a talk with Poseidon and he says that I can keep a Butt here & there. :Envious: You snagged your first Butt, so it doesn't count bro. :Twisted:
Binh's party is supposed to be a surprise, I'm sure that he's already read this. :LOL: Make sure that you stick around to help me clean up Saturday night. I'll probably entertain at the party all night, get no sleep and hit the surf early Sunday. ;)

[BingJr]

Winger,

Why 1 lefty and 1 righty reel ?

[kichigai1]

Very kind words... thank you. When I first started surf fishing, some six or seven months ago, I learned by reading all the reports. Picking up little things here and there and learning new things every time that I hit the surf. And I was lucky enough to have surf fishing veterans like Dana (Fisherman 57) and Mike (Kichigai1) lending me their knowledge and support. That is why I try to help others on the board to experience the same success. I cannot divulge everything that I know, because a lot of information were passed on to me in strict confidence. Plus some things are more enjoyable when you discover it or figure them out for yourselves, it's much more satisfying than having it handed to you. Unless you're a poacher or a meat fisherman, then you don't care how or where you get the information.





he fails to mention I taught him everything he knows about the LC,kroc etc.and halibut fishing and Dana takes credit for my pic of wingnut in W.O.N. .......... Sheesh these guys LOL

Had a great time as usual and it was really cool that phong got that legal all by himself speaking of which how about a raise? lol

1 other thing ladies and gents I've only been fishing lures out of the surf for a year - but what is probably the most consistent factor for good trips? Time on the water - the more familiar you are - the more you know what to look for - and what to use :)


SUNDAY! SUNDAY! SUNDAY! and it will be on again ;)

[Wingnut]

Winger,

Why 1 lefty and 1 righty reel ?
Ahhh yes, I get this question often. Some people think that it's odd. One of the many benefits of being ambidextrous is that you can carry a single left-handed club in your golf bag. In my case, I carry a single lefty 7-iron just for those tricky lies. In fishing, when you work the artificials all day long like a robot with the rod in the same hand, your shoulder, arm, wrist, hand & fingers can get sore, tired & numb. I just switch to the other side and keep going. ;) I can effectively fish with both set-ups comfortably. :cool:


Very kind words... thank you. When I first started surf fishing, some six or seven months ago, I learned by reading all the reports. Picking up little things here and there and learning new things every time that I hit the surf. And I was lucky enough to have surf fishing veterans like Dana (Fisherman 57) and Mike (Kichigai1) lending me their knowledge and support. That is why I try to help others on the board to experience the same success. I cannot divulge everything that I know, because a lot of information were passed on to me in strict confidence. Plus some things are more enjoyable when you discover it or figure them out for yourselves, it's much more satisfying than having it handed to you. Unless you're a poacher or a meat fisherman, then you don't care how or where you get the information.


He fails to mention I taught him everything he knows about the LC, kroc etc. and halibut fishing and Dana takes credit for my pic of wingnut in W.O.N. .......... Sheesh these guys LOL

Had a great time as usual and it was really cool that phong got that legal all by himself speaking of which how about a raise? lol


SUNDAY! SUNDAY! SUNDAY! and it will be on again ;)

Yes, it's true, Surf Master Mike taught "Grasshopper" everything I know in the surf. But I've snatched that stone out of your hand a long time ago didn't I Master? ;) :Twisted: You have a new "Cricket" to teach now in Phuong (Blackwater). :cool: He'll be stealing our thunder very soon. :LOL:
Sorry Mike, W.O.N. chose my picture with the Salmon instead of yours because they said that I was better looking. :ROFL: Dana got the credit because he submitted our pics. :cool:
We have to get together Saturday night at the party and plot our path of destruction for Sunday. :Twisted: I can't wait. :Envious:

[ToadsToadsOnly]

Wow thats probably better than all the days ive had surf fishing combined. Great job bro every time you go out you get em. If I were a halibut i would be like oh Sh** its Wingnut run.....or swim which ever they do.

[kichigai1]

Ahhh yes, I get this question often. Some people think that it's odd. One of the many benefits of being ambidextrous is that you can carry a single left-handed club in your golf bag. In my case, I carry a single lefty 7-iron just for those tricky lies. In fishing, when you work the artificials all day long like a robot with the rod in the same hand, your shoulder, arm, wrist, hand & fingers can get sore, tired & numb. I just switch to the other side and keep going. ;) I can effectively fish with both set-ups comfortably. :cool:



Yes, it's true, Surf Master Mike taught "Grasshopper" everything I know in the surf. But I've snatched that stone out of your hand a long time ago didn't I Master? ;) :Twisted: You have a new "Cricket" to teach now in Phuong (Blackwater). :cool: He'll be stealing our thunder very soon. :LOL:
Sorry Mike, W.O.N. chose my picture with the Salmon instead of yours because they said that I was better looking. :ROFL: Dana got the credit because he submitted our pics. :cool:
We have to get together Saturday night at the party and plot our path of destruction for Sunday. :Twisted: I can't wait. :Envious:

as long as credit is given where credit is due or it's acknowledged it's all good ;)
and we shall set Blackwater on the path to surffishing enlightment

[kill_obet]

one word ...AWESOOOOOOOOME!!!!!!!!

[reelhigh]

That was a killer report and a great day of fishing. Great job guys!

[gletemfeelsteelgary]

Nice work on all them flatties...they were cooprating real well for ya...thats a great haul of legals for 1 day.

Salute...and continued succes to you...you got brought it to them suckas..

A huge congratulations

[Wingnut]

Wow thats probably better than all the days ive had surf fishing combined. Great job bro every time you go out you get em. If I were a halibut i would be like oh Sh** its Wingnut run.....or swim which ever they do.
:ROFL: They usually find themselves on the beach before they realize that I'm even there. ;)


as long as credit is given where credit is due or it's acknowledged it's all good ;)
and we shall set Blackwater on the path to surffishing enlightment
Phuong is ready for round two... been calling me every day this week. :D Tide looks pretty good this weekend. :Twisted:


one word ...AWESOOOOOOOOME!!!!!!!!
Totally awesome! :Envious:


That was a killer report and a great day of fishing. Great job guys!
Thank you very much. :cool:


Nice work on all them flatties...they were cooprating real well for ya...thats a great haul of legals for 1 day.

Salute...and continued succes to you...you got brought it to them suckas..

A huge congratulations
Gary, when are ya gonna get some waders and get in the mix with us? ;)
The surf is calling... :D

[TroutOnly]

GREAT REPORT AND PICS ART,I REALLY LIKE LOOMIS RODS,,,t/o

[PONTOON]

Arthur,

You are amazing!:Thumbs Up::Thumbs Up:

Another in a series of awesome reports.

[gletemfeelsteelgary]

:ROFL: They usually find themselves on the beach before they realize that I'm even there. ;)


Phuong is ready for round two... been calling me every day this week. :D Tide looks pretty good this weekend. :Twisted:


Totally awesome! :Envious:


Thank you very much. :cool:


Gary, when are ya gonna get some waders and get in the mix with us? ;)
The surf is calling... :D
I already have waders...I've had them for a year or more....

I'd be happy to join ya'll...BUT...I haven't been invited : )
Again...nice work !
Gary

[Wingnut]

GREAT REPORT AND PICS ART,I REALLY LIKE LOOMIS RODS,,,t/o
Only the best will do Bob. ;)
See ya soon. :D


Arthur,
You are amazing!:Thumbs Up::Thumbs Up:
Another in a series of awesome reports.
Thanks Terry, when is the Team TrollToon gonna hit the surf? ;) :Envious:


I already have waders...I've had them for a year or more....
I'd be happy to join ya'll...BUT...I haven't been invited : )
Again...nice work !
Gary
Gary, PM sent. ;)