Life is about Success & Failure, and Sometimes Loss... A Long Overdue SWAT Report.

[Wingnut]

Warmest greetings to my fellow Fishing Network Friends & Family. It's been quite a long time since I posted up a report. :Shocked:

2015 has been a difficult year. In March, I lost my best canine friend of 15 years. Her name is Baby, most of you know her as Wingnut Pug and she is usually in the "parting shot" photo at the end of most of my reports. Then in April, my Father passed away after a lengthy battle with cancer. Life is not kind at times, and sometimes downright unbearable, but one thing is for sure, it goes on...

I will add a little tribute for them at the end of my report.


"God never puts anything in front of you in life, that you can't handle..."

I want to thank all those who have reached out to me in the past few months. All the phone calls, texts, emails, cards and private messages offering prayers and support is much appreciated. :Cool:

I haven't been fishing much at all this year. A couple of times out chasing Yellowtails and I think only one time in the surf back in January. As a matter of fact, just this past weekend was when I caught my very first surf fish of the year. I'm dead last on the S.W.A.T. Challenge Leader Board standings. :LOL:

Anyways... This past Sunday, was the day that I planned to make my return to the surf. Talking to a few of my S.W.A.T. Brothers (Mike aka Bones, Don aka Bachiboy and Mikey aka Exfactor), we decided to head up to Santa Barbara to hunt some monster Perch. I was told that the local surf action on my home turf has been kinda slow this year and I haven't really been missing out on much.

Sunday 5/31 - 1:30am
Mike and Don met me at my office bright and early and we piled all our gear in Don's Suburban for the long drive North.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000432.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000432.jpg.html)

We were all excited to hit this beach in Santa Barbara, because the day before, Mikey recon the spot with a couple of youngsters and they caught three Striped Bass! :Shocked:
Catching a Lineside from the surf has been one of my biggest goals ever since I started surf fishing. Came close a few times, but the "true" Ghosts of the surf have always eluded me. :Neutral:

We got to Mikey's house in Goleta at 3:00am and followed him on another hour drive North. Mikey's friend Scott and the surf fly fishing expert Tim aka FeatherB8s will also be joining us. :Cool:

We got to the A.O. at 4:00am, geared up and hiked another hour in total darkness to the spot.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000437.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000437.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000438.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000438.jpg.html)

Lieutenant Bones was having a tough time with the 3 mile hike in. :Surprised:
Rough terrain and wearing the wrong type of shoes didn't help. :Crying:
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000445.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000445.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000439.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000439.jpg.html)

Tar balls everywhere... :mad:
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000447.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000447.jpg.html)

We had surf Stripers on our minds all morning with every cast we made... but the Linesides weren't around or didn't want to play today. :Rolls Eyes:

But there were Perch, lots and lots and lots of Perch... Big ones too. I personally caught at least 50+ with a few 14 and 15 inchers in the mix. I'm sure every one else did just as well or better... Many double hook ups.

I will not hide any backgrounds in this report. If you guys know where this beach is... come out and have some fun! :Wink:


http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/JALAMA5.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/JALAMA5.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000448.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000448.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/JALAMA1.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/JALAMA1.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000446.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000446.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/JALAMA8.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/JALAMA8.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000449.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000449.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000458.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000458.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000459.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000459.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/JALAMA3.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/JALAMA3.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000460.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000460.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/JALAMA7.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/JALAMA7.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000461.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000461.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/JALAMA2.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/JALAMA2.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000453.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000453.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000454.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000454.jpg.html)

Scotty gets a 23" legal Halibut! :Razz: His first legal Halibut in the surf.
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000450.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000450.jpg.html)

Lt. Bones
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000455.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000455.jpg.html)

Mikey (Exfactor) and Tim (FeatherB8s).
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000457.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000457.jpg.html)

On the way out... we did at least 6 miles on foot that morning.
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000456.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000456.jpg.html)

Here are a couple of Stripers that Mikey and company caught on this same beach the day before. :Envious:
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/exfactor2.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/exfactor2.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/exfactor1.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/exfactor1.jpg.html)

Good friends sharing a nice meal afterwards... :Big Grin:
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000462.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000462.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/7eef0903-b367-4117-bed1-97f0e18cd395.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/7eef0903-b367-4117-bed1-97f0e18cd395.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000464.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000464.jpg.html)

Leaving the A.O. heading home.
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000466.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000466.jpg.html)

We got stuck in traffic on the way home... lane closures from the oil spill clean up. :Angry:
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000465.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000465.jpg.html)

What a bummer... Don's SUV overheated and we pulled off the Freeway and called AAA. :Evil:
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000468.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000468.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000467.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000467.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000472.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000472.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000471.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000471.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000474.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000474.jpg.html)

The AAA flatbed truck driver was totally cool. He went out of the way to drop Mike and I off back at my office before taking Don and his vehicle to the mechanic shop. :Big Grin:
See you Don, sorry about the car... have fun shopping for a new one bro! :Envious:
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000475.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000475.jpg.html)

Thanks Mikey for the invite and your hospitality as always. We'll get those elusive Linesides next time!

Good fishing with you again Scott, congrats on your first legal Halibut in the surf. :Thumbs Up:

Tim, very nice to meet you and a pleasure sharing the sand with you. Maybe you can teach me how to catch a surf Striper one of these days... :Wink:

Mike, I'm glad we didn't have to carry you out and none of us had to give you mouth to mouth. :ROFL:
Really great fishing with you again my friend and thanks for being there for me in my time of need. :Cool:

Don, thanks for driving, even though it didn't turn out too well, but we are fortunate that it could have been much worse. You're such a good sport about it all and I'll always appreciate our friendship.

I finally caught my first surf fish of the year! :Dancing Banana:


"When God pushes you to the edge of difficulty, trust Him fully. Because two things can happen. Either he'll catch you when you fall, or He will teach you how to fly."


Bonus photos:
A couple of trips out with Jeff (Webmaster) on his boat, the Kolomona. Thank Jeff! :Big Grin:

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000359.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000359.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000346.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000346.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000395.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000395.jpg.html)

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More Bonus pics...

JerryG sent me a pic of his PB Spotfin Croaker caught last weekend, nice!
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/jerryg1.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/jerryg1.jpg.html)

My buddy David (Baja Concept) with a big Grouper caught in Mexico last weekend.
Thanks for the invite to hang out and fish with you at your pad in Mexico my friend. Next time... :Wink:
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/david1.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/david1.jpg.html)

Mikey with some Salmon he caught in Morrow Bay a few weeks ago.
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/mikey1.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/mikey1.jpg.html)

I had a birthday in March. :Big Grin:
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/HAPPYBDAY1.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/HAPPYBDAY1.jpg.html)

Parting Shots...

A Tribute to Dad and Wingnut Pug.

Dad, I still get a lot of hugs, but none of them as warm as yours... Miss you Dad.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/bo4.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/bo4.jpg.html)

Dad, as a child, I had a million ways to annoy you. As a teenager, I had a million reasons to defy you. As an adult, I had a million opportunities to make you proud. I did all that, but I missed out on the most important... a million chances to say I love you while you were alive... Miss you Dad.




Baby (Wingnut Pug) closed her eyes, went to sleep and didn't wake up. That's how I want to leave this world when my time comes.

She has given me so much of herself over the 15 years she was with me and this was her final act of love, her one last gift to me. I've always dreaded the day I had to take her to the vet to have her put to sleep when her quality of life is gone. She spared me the pain and heartache of having to go through that...

God's finger touched her and she slept.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/BABY171.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/BABY171.jpg.html)

Her ears were often the first thing to catch my tears...
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000100.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000100.jpg.html)

Dogs have given us their absolute all. We are the center of their universe. We are the focus of their love and faith and trust. They serve us loyally in return for scraps. It is without a doubt the best deal Man has ever made...

I picked up Baby's ashes and took her on Jeff's boat and scattered it... rest in peace my little girl. There will never be another like you.

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/BABYASHES1.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/BABYASHES1.jpg.html)

Along with her ashes, I brought a bag of her favorite treat, her favorite bone, chew toy...
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000329.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000329.jpg.html)

and the last photo I took of her this past Christmas.
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000330.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000330.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000331.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000331.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000338.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000338.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000340.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000340.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000343.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000343.jpg.html)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r135/Wingnut32566/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000345.jpg (http://s143.photobucket.com/user/Wingnut32566/media/Wingnut%2012/Wingnut%2013/Wingnut%2014/P1000345.jpg.html)

I guess you don't really own a Dog, you rent them... and you have to be thankful that God gave you a long lease.

They have a way of finding people who need them. Filling an emptiness we don't even know we have.


Time to start thinking about HG7... :Wink:

[Big Daddy]

Wingnut I am sorry to hear about the loss of your father as well as Wingnut pug. I do know that life is tough sometimes. I am praying that the peace of God will be with you Bro. This was another great report. Thank you I always enjoy them.

BD

[bones]

Beautiful report Arthur...... Now it's time to look forward in life and make it as awesome as possible. It was great fishing with you my friend. Let's not wait another six months to do it again. I'm looking forward to HGVII.....It will be nice!

God Bless Brotha!

Mike

[webmaster]

Great write up Arthur. Your kindness, generosity, and wisdom are a great inspiration to me. I am forever grateful to have you as a friend.

[bachiboy]

Awesome report sir!!! Now I know why you were up so long last night.:Wink:

You have been through quite a bit this year, so what I went through at the end of that trip IS laughable. I am really grateful that you and Mike were there to help me and that it didn't happen at the start of our ride home like we were talking about.:EyePop: But, what I am truly grateful for is that I have great friends to share these times with...friends and family are definitely what's most important. After Bones and I get over being sick and sore, we'll start our, "remember that time we went to...." stories.:LOL:

Take care and THANKS brother!!!
Don

PS - *&*(ing Scott!!!! :ROFL:

[DEVOREFLYER]

Sorry to hear of the loss of your beloved father and little friend. I am sure that the memories of both will be forever and special. Wonderful report and more time on the water will give you peace and reflection of how short life really is and to take every opportunity to enjoy it.

[fishshep]

"When God pushes you to the edge of difficulty, trust Him fully. Because two things can happen. Either he'll catch you when you fall, or He will teach you how to fly."

How true that is, That,s why they call Him "Faithful and True":Big Grin:

[Edgar]

Thank you very much for the inspiring report Arthur, and RIP to all our loved ones who have past away . Happy to see you out and about with a smile on your face ;) Glad you guys had a great trip and found some piggys.

Tight lines,
Edgar

[anchor3n1]

Brother Arthur:

Fabulous report. You shared your heart and it caused me to reflect on many things in my life. You motivated me to reflect on how important my family and friends are to my life. You showed me how blessed I am to have the friends I do in my life including you. But probably the best blessing in your report is showing me how to go through some of life's most difficult times with with honor and thankfulness! Plus...great story and pictures

Wow! thank you my friend,

Nick

[TroutOnly]

its great to see you out fishing Arthur ,when I heard about youre father I prayed for you ,theres no words that can be said to ease the pain in youre heart for the loss of your father. I lost mine to cancer 30 yrs ago and my heart still aches from the loss..............

[bloox8]

I am sorry to hear about your loss Arthur. I am sure they're at a better place, watching over you, and smiling at all the generosity and wisdom that you have shared and continue to share. You are one helluva guy.

Thank you for everything you've done for this community and this inspirational report =)

[City Dad]

beautiful..........

[Badbeat]

My body starts aching whenever I think about that hike. :LOL:
That was super fun last year when I went with you and Mikey. Lots of gigantic Perch for sure.
Awesome report bro and beautiful tribute to your dad and Baby.
See you Sunday for the Tuna hunt. :Twisted:

[troublehook]

Toughest thing to lose a parent. I went through it recently myself.
Those are some hog BSPs you guys caught up there. :EyePop:
Hopefully we kick some Tuna butts this weekend brotha.

Sokha

[blackwater]

You're a good son Arthur and I know your father is very proud of you. You're just like him very kind and generous.
It was a beautiful memorial service for your dad and you have a very graceful family.
How cool that you scattered Wingnut pug's ashes in the sea, she will always be with you when you're in the surf or out there on the water. :Big Grin:
You're one of the strongest person I know and a great friend, bless you brother.

As for the perchin' goes, you guys killed it. But I'm sure you had that Striper on the back of your mind all day. Don't worry, your time will come soon enough and there won't be anything left for you to accomplish in the surf.

That sucks about your car brother Don, hope you get it back in running order soon and ready for the next adventure. :Wink:

[trail blazer]

My condolences wingnut.

Great report,Been missing those great write ups
Thank you

TRAIL BLAZER

[saltman]

Arthur

I'm sorry to hear about your loss. I lost my older brother on March 17th to cancer. As we know God as a plan for all of us. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Ramiro

[jerryG]

That spotfin was a big surprise. I been fishing for a long time and new personal bests don't come along very often. This was my best spotfin by far and it was the farthest North I' have ever seen a spotfin. It swam away strong when I released it.. With El Nino you just never know.




I”m so sorry for your losses Arthur. As far as I can tell the pain never goes away it just becomes easier to deal with over time. Didn't want to mention anything before but we lost two family members over the past 8 months..


On the afternoon of Oct. 1st, 2014 we lost our beloved pug Lamar to a heart attack. Although he was He was recovering pancreatis, he was very and active until the day we lost him. He was 13 years, 8 months old. He was 8 weeks old when we got him.

http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee502/jerrygiberti/MVC-006S.jpg (http://s1231.photobucket.com/user/jerrygiberti/media/MVC-006S.jpg.html)



http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee502/jerrygiberti/000_0032.jpg (http://s1231.photobucket.com/user/jerrygiberti/media/000_0032.jpg.html)

http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee502/jerrygiberti/USER-PC/Documents/P1140124_zps47234f71.jpg (http://s1231.photobucket.com/user/jerrygiberti/media/USER-PC/Documents/P1140124_zps47234f71.jpg.html)



The family was/is devastated and no one took it harder than his partner in crime Shyla and life long companion. She had been with him since she was a puppy. She cried all night the day he died. Once he was gone she just lost her will to live. She became sick and from the time Lamar left us she was never the same again. He tail was always straight down never curled up like a pug should be. We had to put her down on April 25th. She was 13 years 8 months old as well..

http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee502/jerrygiberti/100_0159.jpg (http://s1231.photobucket.com/user/jerrygiberti/media/100_0159.jpg.html)

http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee502/jerrygiberti/100_0269.jpg (http://s1231.photobucket.com/user/jerrygiberti/media/100_0269.jpg.html)

We are now pugless..

[exfactor]

I am so glad to see you smiling again my friend! Life's pitfalls are hard on one's heart, and help us all to see the people that make us alive. You will always be surrounded by people whom you have touched, and inspired to be your friend. I am grateful that I am one of them.

[PONTOON]

Arthur,

Once again please accept my most sincere condolences on the loss of your Father and Baby.

I'm glad to see you have been able to get back into the surf with Good Friends. As always the pictures say it all......

[Which Way Out]

Arthur, even after reading such a successful fishing excursion, I find myself sadden at the curve balls you have been thrown. The personal flood of my own memories enhanced the feelings you must have been dealing with the past 6 months.
I'm so sorry for your loss. No fish will ever make up for it.
But we must move on. And you will. We all have to at some point in life. Hug the one's you have, and remember the one's no longer.

WWO

[cutbait]

As Joe dirt says... Keep on Keeping on...




Love the report, not so much some of the struggles in it. Stay strong

[DockRat]

Sorry to read about your losses Arthur.
DR

[JDS13]

Sorry about your loss bro, I take my dogs with me fishing alot and just about everywhere I go, even if it's just around the block. They are my furry children.

[SP Dan]

Hi ya Brotha Arthur,

It's taken me a bit of time to respond to your posting and for that I apologize to you.

My heart has also been weighed down quite heavily lately and it's difficult for me to come out of myself ... to be there for others in their times of need.

My heart is truly saddened by your losses of your Father and of your best buddy Baby pugs, if there is anything that I can do to help you
and your family in any way in these times ...... I will try my best ...

Thanx for the excellent read! :Cool:

SP Dan <"))><

[troutdog]

My condolences to you and your family for the loss of our Father. I know you pup definitely fell into the category of "man's" best friend....I still wear my "I fished with Wingnut Pug" t-shirt often and will continue to do so when I fish. Be well and God bless.


TD

[fish4life]

Way to go on the perch-action! Sorry to hear of your loss, Arthur. I remember when I lost my uncle who taught me everything I knew about fishing. I stopped fishing for a while , but now whenever I go fishing I think about all great times we had spent together. Stay strong and cannot wait to see you again at the HG7. Oh and remember as Dr. Seuss once said "Don't cry that it's over. Smile because it happened" :)

[davidhurley]

This thread is load with lot of beautiful pictures.

[remington]

Arthur,

Thank you for the report and more importantly, great job getting out with the brotherhood for a healing mission. Sometimes when life throws us a curve ball, just getting back out doing the things we love & doing it with good friends can help ease the pain.....

God bless brother!

Kelly

[bobabocker]

Wingnut,

Condolences for your loss, keep your lines tight and your chin up.

[Ghost117]

The first fishing post to make me tear up :'(
I'm sorry for your loss Arthur, losing someone and a pet is always a tough pill to swallow. I lost my uncle from cancer so I feel for ya man. All the more reason to honor their memory.
Psalm 18:28 “You, Lord, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light.”

Great catches an I hope Poseidon give you plenty of beauties this year!

[Homefish]

Welcome back!
Those were some BIG BSP!
Good thing u were wear'n that bright red jacket or u may have caught 100 :) ...!!!
Thanks 4 the report.

[iLLest]

Well hello there Arturito! Glad to see you back brotha.
It's been a while my friend, and oh man, did we miss you.
When I heard about the awful news, I felt horrible.
Although we dont wish death upon anybody, it's absolutely inevitable in our lives.
I know there's not much we can do about it, but I hate the fact that sometimes terrible things happen to great individuals and you just happen to be one of them bro.
I am truly sorry for your losses and I wish you a speedy recovery from this chapter in your life my friend.

Stay strong brotha!
We all love ya.

[Jaysuuun]

Arthur, I'm very sorry to hear about your losses. I knew that your dad had passed but I did not know that Wingnut pug also passed until I read your report. My heart sank and after reading it I played fetch with our little pup because she has a similar favorite toy hedgehog. My heart goes out to you and your family and I hope you are recovering well.

Glad you were able to get some surf therapy and get your mind off of things. Thanks for the report. Everyone has missed reading them.
Hope to see ya soon.

Jason