40th Annual Houston Fishing Show

Well, another Fishing Show in the great city of Houston has come and gone.  Due to a shift in some plans, I was not able to attend on Saturday but was able to make it out Sunday for the final day at the George R. Brown Convention Center.  It was a fairly nice show with lots of laughs and tall tail stories, that seem to grow every time you hear them! Sounds like a room full of fishermen doesn't it.  All in all, I had a great time roaming the aisles and checking out all the kayaks, rods, reels, baits, electronics and everything fishing accessories.  I have to admit, I even admired a few boats that were displayed...but then I thought about the fuel and maintenance costs and that quickly disappeared.

My main objective was to check out a few of the seminars that were being held by local guides and instructors on various subjects.  The three that I had attended were:

In Pursuit of THE Record (Trophy Trout - Baffin Bay)

Presented by Captain Aubrey Black and

Captain Sally Black of Baffin Bay Rod & Gun

Fishing Galveston Bay

Presented by Captain Jim West of Bolivar Guide Services

Fly Fishing the Texas Coast

Presented by Stacy Lynn, IFFF Certified Fly Casting Instructor

In Pursuit of THE Record

I really didn't know what to expect but was immediately impressed with the first seminar hosted by Captain Aubrey and Captain Sally Black on pursuing THE record trophy trout in Baffin Bay.  I have never had the opportunity to fish Baffin Bay by boat or kayak, but like most anglers, I have seen proof that Baffin really does hold some of the largest speckled trout along the Texas Gulf Coast...and possibly the entire Gulf Coast at that.  Captain Aubrey and Captain Sally explained why Baffin Bay is a great habitat for sheltering these monstrous trout as well as the slightly unique techniques they use that have been proven to catch big trout over the past few years, even through drought condition and at times when no other guide services were running Baffin Bay.  During the seminar, Captain Aubrey explained his choice in tackle and gear and expressed how he uses mono for his baitcaster reels as opposed to transitioning over to braid, he explicitly told anyone to stop by his booth later to discuss his reasons why.  (I myself have been using braid for years and enjoy all the advantages it gives.)
After sitting through all the seminars, I had a chance to visit with Captain Aubrey in their booth and was really impressed with what I heard and how upfront and honest he is.  Given his stance on mono, I had to ask why he has not transitioned over to braid...I was completely in agreement with what he had to say.  Pretty much, now a days, most fishermen use too heavy of equipment and just horse everything in...nobody knows how to fight and properly land a fish anymore!  He claimed to be old school and for the most part, we share the same thoughts.  And now you're thinking, wait, but you use braid too??? I do use braid, however, I do not use my braid in this manner.  I like the lighter tackle which allows me to properly fight and land the fish in a safe manner in order to grab a quick picture and release him to fight another day.  I generally only keep about 10-15% of the fish I catch, just enough to keep some in the fridge.  After speaking with Captain Aubrey, I might have to rig up one of my Shimano Curado's with a spool of mono.
If you are ever looking to get a group of your closest fishing buddies and take a nice trip down to Baffin Bay, I would recommend giving Baffin Bay Rod & Gun a shot.  I know my brother and I are already talking about trying to make it down there.

Fishing Galveston Bay

Next up was Captain Jim West of Bolivar Guide Service to cover fishing Galveston Bay.  Captain Jim West gave a good presentation but I was a little disappointed as he did not cover much about fishing Galveston Bay. The presentation was focused more towards the general basics of fishing and navigating a few different weather patterns.  Don't get me wrong, it was good information to cover for the beginner or less experienced anglers as most beginners don't fish weather patterns, but for me it was just a good review.  Honestly, I was looking more for direct information to the Galveston Bay System as I am not as familiar with anything east of Chocolate Bay, with the exception of Pierce Marsh of course.  I was looking for it to be more geared towards what the bay has to offer and types of structure you may find.  My knowledge of East Bay is slim and you don't even need to ask about West Bay because I have never had my kayak touch those waters.  I've heard some decent things about kayaking various spots in Galveston Bay but need to set aside some time specifically to venture out and explore some of those kayaking spots.  So hopefully this year I'll be able to bring some footage from some of my adventures and explorations of Galveston Bay.

Fly Fishing the Texas Coast

Last up on my list of seminars to catch was Fly Fishing the Texas Coast presented by Stacy Lynn.  Stacy is an International Federation of Fly Fishers, IFFF, Certified Fly Casting Instructor as well as a Texas Volunteer for Casting for Recovery whose primary goal is to "focus on improving quality of life for women with breast cancer through the therapeutic sport of fly fishing". (Give them a follow on Instagram @castingforrecovery).
This seminar is one that I was really excited for as I am just now venturing into the art of Fly Fishing.  My enjoyment of fly fishing grows each time I tie a fly or take the fly rod out to a local neighborhood pond, and I was hoping this presentation would help me out to find some good fly fishing spots along the gulf coast...well, I was a little let down at first when Stacy said we will not cover much about the fishing spots or what to look for along the coast but instead focus on the accuracy of the fly cast especially towards tailing redfish.  So with an open mind, I agreed that it is very important to improve your fly casting accuracy especially when you are sight casting those upper slot reds; plus, she had me a redfish!  So she began asking questions to the audience to see who has experienced certain problems with their cast...and I found my head nodding for every question!  So now she had me hooked and I quit putting up a fight and was heading towards the net.  In the 45 minute seminar she gave, I learned more pointers and small tips to practice when I'm not on the water to help improve my fly casting.  Everything from the angle of approach of your fly line, practicing fly first presentation, types of loops and how to properly drop the fly rod after the fly is presented to be ready to rip if needed.
For myself, this was awesome information that I was able to get with the small price of admission to the show.  I have not received this amount of information from anyone else before on fly fishing techniques.  Yea, I've watched countless hours of YouTube, but the quality of information she gave in such a short amount of time lured me in and got me excited to get home to practice my fly casting.  I strongly recommend that you look up Stacy Lynn whether you are a looking to venture into the sport of fly fishing for the first time, just getting started or experienced and want some help diagnosing your fly casting.  She offers a wide variety of services for individuals or groups listed below:

• Diagnostics & Tune-up
• Advanced & Saltwater Techniques
• Improving accuracy, distance & presentation
• Video coaching
• On-the-water guided lessons
• Classes on fishing techniques, knot tying, fly tying, equipment, etc...

After the seminars were over, I was able to walk around and check out all the booths that were offered throughout the 200,000 square feet of event space.  Not much damage was made to my wallet as I was able to get out of there only spending $25 on a new pair of Danco side cutter fishing pliers.  The show was well organized, had plenty of boats and kayaking accessories, and a good variety of vendors and guides spanning the entire gulf coast.  I look forward to next years 41st annual Fishing Show...maybe one of these years I'll have a booth set up.  The next show that my girlfriend and I enjoy going to together each year will be the Houston Summer Boat Show coming June 3 - 7, 2015.  Maybe I'll see some of you there!

Until next time...

Keep your Tail Dirty, and Fish On!

Unless otherwise stated, all content and photographs are ©DirtyTail Fishing. Please do not copy or distribute photographs without first asking for permission. Paid endorsement disclosure: In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of compensation for my endorsement, testimonial, and/or link to any products or services from this blog. Please know that I only recommend and endorse products and services that I personally approve, appreciate, and feel would be helpful for readers. All ideas and opinions expressed are completely my own. Thank you for supporting DirtyTail Fishing! 

And So The Journey Begins

Taking a short break from training

When I was younger, our family would take road trips as our vacations.  So many miles on the road were covered with me, being the youngest of two older brothers, stuffed in between both my older brothers in the backseat for what seemed like forever!  With everyone in the car, I'm pretty sure the longest duration where it was actually quiet was maybe 2 minutes at the most with all the bickering going on, imaginary boundary lines being crossed, random bathroom stops on the side of the road or someone yelling out, "Are we there yet?".  Those were the days...(as I sit back with a smile on my face imagining all the chaos and laughter we shared in that minivan on the open road).  Now, as I sit here in my late 20's, I would give anything to share the road again between my two brothers regardless of the kicking and screaming that might occur on the way.

Well, let the journey begin.  As of Wednesday January 7, 2015, myself along with both of my brothers are beginning a journey that will take us hundreds of miles over the next several weeks, a journey that will be fulfilling for all of us and be carried out on 2 wheels, a journey that is for the benefit of Multiple Sclerosis victims, families and care takers, a journey for hope of finding a cure for this disease and a journey that will eventually take myself and my brothers on a challenging 150 mile bike ride from Houston, Texas to Austin, Texas on April 18-19, 2015 while we ride in the BP MS150.

I know this is not my normal type of fishing or outdoors post, but for all the privileges I am blessed with, I feel it is only right to give back when I can.  This journey will be adventurous for me as I have never ridden a bike for long distances before.  Most of the time, I ride mountain bike trails and occasionally I'll take it around the block for a little evening neighborhood fishing trip after work.  This will require me to log many miles over the next few months for training and endurance.  I am going to push myself to train my body and prepare myself mentally and physically for this grueling 150 mile bike ride over the course of two days.

About Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system that disrupts the flow of information within the brain, and between the brain and body.  MS affects millions of people, including our loved ones, families, friends, fishing buddies and co-workers.  That's why I've registered for Bike MS.  Bike MS is a ride that brings us closer together to make a difference in the lives of people affected by Multiple Sclerosis...and each mile we ride brings us closer to a world free of MS.

Please Support Us

For this endeavor, my brothers and I have began the 3 Brothers, 1 Cause campaign which you can follow along on FaceBook as we take you along for the ride with us.  However, In order to compete in this endeavor, we need your help!  We have a registration fee which we've covered, but we also have a minimum donation amount to raise in order to qualify to ride.  We are asking for your help in the form of a donation to the National MS Society, which will directly impact the research to find a cure for MS.

Please help me achieve my goal by visiting:

http://main.nationalmssociety.org/goto/ToddMass

You can help my brothers as well by visiting their pages:

http://main.nationalmssociety.org/goto/CodyMass

http://main.nationalmssociety.org/goto/JoshMass

We, along with all of those participating in the ride, or are affected by MS greatly appreciate your help and support!!!  I look forward to bringing you all along with me on my journey.  Thank You!!!

Until I see you at the finish line...

Keep your Tail Dirty, and Fish On!

Unless otherwise stated, all content and photographs are ©DirtyTail Fishing. Please do not copy or distribute photographs without first asking for permission. Paid endorsement disclosure: In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of compensation for my endorsement, testimonial, and/or link to any products or services from this blog. Please know that I only recommend and endorse products and services that I personally approve, appreciate, and feel would be helpful for readers. All ideas and opinions expressed are completely my own. Thank you for supporting DirtyTail Fishing! 

How to replace a broken guide on your fishing rod

So you're out fishing, and you notice one of the guides on your fishing rod is either damaged or broken.  Or maybe the guide insert is flapping around the line between the other guides (which you hear every cast) and maybe it's not even there anymore.  This is one scenario you don't want to have happen, especially when you're out hunting for that big trophy.  Believe it or not, a damaged guide can rub against your line every time you cast or each time you reel in a fish. Pretty soon, probably when you're fighting the big one, your line will just go slack from snapping due to the damage and fraying it has caused.

What do you do?  Well, don't throw that rod away or put it deep in the corner of the garage behind the tennis rackets...with a few tools and the right setup, you can easily replace any of your fishing rod guides.

Preventing damage to rods

Ok, I know accidents happen and guides can be bent, damaged or broken off fairly easy.  But the methods of storage and transportation are without a doubt where most guides on your fishing rods are damaged. When you get up early in the morning, barely awake, and you throw all your rods in the back of the truck before heading to the water...guides get broken.  When you get home from a long day on the water and are worn out from catching so many fish, you grab the rods out of the back of your truck and throw them in the corner of your garage...guides get broken.  One way to eliminate most of these accidents is to take care of your equipment! Instead of just throwing rods in the back of your truck, try building a rod rack for the back of your truck (just don't go through a drive-thru on the way home).

6 PVC Rod holders attached to toolbox

As far as storing them in your garage, build a simple rod rack to protect your rods and reels in between your days on the water.  I have seen several different designs and methods to safely storing your rods in the garage and intend to build my own soon...so check back for which method I build and my review. Whether on the boat or in my kayak, I try to keep everything clean and organized.  This makes my setup safer and helps to protect my equipment from damage in those unexpected moments that we all face while on the water.  

Rod holders attached on Kayak

There are several ways to protect your equipment from damage, but I know there are those times when equipment gets damaged by accident or from years of use...so that leads me to my next solution for replacing the guide.

Where to start

So first off, you'll want to make a trip to your local sporting goods store or the nearest rod building supplies store (One in the Houston area that I use for all my rod building needs is Fishing Tackle Unlimited).  You'll need to find a guide similar to the broken or damaged guide you will be replacing. Make sure the guide is for the right style of rod (casting, spinning or fly) as well as matching up the size.  Also, if you want to match the design of the rod, get the different thread colors making sure the thread size matches up.  Size 'C' thread will make it easy to wrap most guides and doesn't make that big of a difference if you just want to get your rod fishing again.

Replacing the guide

First, you'll need a rod wrapping station along with all the tools. I'm not going to go into details now for all the tools and equipment you need but for most starters, it is easiest to purchase a wrapping station.  If you go this route to purchase, you can check out the selection at Fishing Tackle Unlimited or Mud Hole.  A more adventurous route would be to build your own if you can spend a few hours in the wood shop.

The Rod Wrapping Station

Replacing a guide on your rod is fairly simple and can be performed in only a matter of about 15 minutes if you already have all the tools, supplies and parts.  Here are the steps to do so:

1. Remove the existing guide:  First, you'll want to take a sharp razor blade to carefully cut away the threads of the existing guide that you wish to replace. During this step, be careful to not cut too deep and damage the rod blank.
2. Clean guide seat surface:  After you remove the guide, clean the old residue that may still be on the rod blank to give yourself a clean surface to apply the new guide wrap.  You can do this by running the razor blade lightly across the surface.
3. Attach guide: Using a thin piece of masking tape, attach the guide in the same location as the previous guide was seated.  Set up your thread to begin wrapping the guide to the rod blank.  Start the thread wrap on the rod blank and slowly work the wrap onto the guide foot.  Be careful as you start wrapping on the guide foot that the threads do not overlap. (Most guides today have a tapered foot to allow thread to easily transition onto the foot.  If you have an older guide, or the guide is not well tapered, you can file down the edge to create a taper).  As your thread wrap progresses onto the footing, you can remove the masking tape and complete the thread wrap and finish it off as it reaches the guide.
4. Apply Epoxy: For a guide replacement, I typically apply one thick layer of two part finishing epoxy.  While applying the epoxy, keep the rod rotating by hand to allow the epoxy to level out evenly.  When you are finished applying the epoxy, you can place the rod on a slow roller to let it continue to turn and finish drying.  Let it turn over-night and it will be ready to fish in the morning.

Finished guide

There you have it, simple and easy steps to replacing your own rod guides.  Just as a small warning, if you start doing these small repairs to your rods...you might as well go all in and build your own rod from scratch.  It is a great challenge to finish your first rod and and even greater feeling when you land your first fish and every fish there after!

Check out the below video that briefly covers the above steps!

Keep your Tail Dirty, and Fish On!

Unless otherwise stated, all content and photographs are ©DirtyTail Fishing. Please do not copy or distribute photographs without first asking for permission. Paid endorsement disclosure: In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of compensation for my endorsement, testimonial, and/or link to any products or services from this blog. Please know that I only recommend and endorse products and services that I personally approve, appreciate, and feel would be helpful for readers. All ideas and opinions expressed are completely my own. Thank you for supporting DirtyTail Fishing!

Cajun Blackened Redfish

I've been longing to cook up a little something special for Ms. ArtSea Chic for some time now and with the long Labor Day Weekend that we were able to spend together, I finally had that opportunity. As you'll come to find out, I enjoy experimenting anytime I am able to get in the kitchen and put my culinary skills to the test (not saying there are many skills there...but I do surprise myself every once in awhile).

So I went out in search for something new with a little spice and some bold flavor and found an interesting recipe for Cajun Blackened Redfish from Allrecipes.com. This is a simple recipe with minimal preparation that can be cooked up easily in less than an hour. Thanks to the help of Ms. ArtSea Chic for deciding on the sides of white rice and steamed broccoli drizzled in shredded cheese, which paired well with the freshly caught redfish from our Texas bays.

Here is what you'll need:

• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 2 tsp ground black pepper
• 2 tsp lemon pepper (I decided to substitute a Lemon Herb Seasoning which is a zesty blend of lemon, basil and oregano)
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp salt
• 2-1/2 Cups Italian-Style salad dressing
• 8 (4 oz) Redfish fillets

Directions:

1. Pre-heat oven to 350⁰ F.
2. Layer an 11"x17" baking dish with tin foil leaving enough to wrap and seal the tin foil around the fillets.
3. In a microwavable safe bowl, melt butter and allow to cool to room temperature. While butter is cooling, use a medium bowl to combine the cayenne pepper, black pepper, lemon herb seasoning, garlic powder and salt for your seasoning mix.
4. Once cooled, dip each fillet into the melted butter, then coat both sides with the seasoning mix.
5. Using a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear all fillets on each side for approximately 2 minutes, or until slightly charred.
6. Place seared fillets in the 11"x17" baking dish and lightly coat each fillet with the Italian style dressing.
7. Seal fillets in the tin foil and bake in the pre-heated oven for 30 minutes or until flaky. 

After the fish is finished baking and ready to serve, you could also drizzle some more Italian-Style salad dressing over the redfish for a little extra zing. Hope you enjoy!

Do you have a good Redfish recipe? Share with everyone how you spice it up in the kitchen by posting a comment below! I look forward to hearing about your favorite recipes, until next time...

Keep your Tail Dirty, and Fish On!

Unless otherwise stated, all content and photographs are ©DirtyTail Fishing. Please do not copy or distribute photographs without first asking for permission. Paid endorsement disclosure: In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of compensation for my endorsement, testimonial, and/or link to any products or services from this blog. Please know that I only recommend and endorse products and services that I personally approve, appreciate, and feel would be helpful for readers. All ideas and opinions expressed are completely my own. Thank you for supporting DirtyTail Fishing!

Unboxing the WASPcam Gideon

One of my favorite things to do while I'm around the water is to record any and all the action, the good and sometimes even the bad.  For some time now, I've been searching for a new action camera to capture all the moments I spend near the water, whether it's fishing, taking the kayak out or camping along a secluded river bank.  I purchased the WASPcam Gideon and want to take you through what you'll find when you unbox the camera and what my first impression are of this action camera.  To check out the WASPcam Gideon, you can visit www.waspcam.com.

So why did I decide on the WASPcam?

There were actually a couple of features that lured me to pick this particular action camera out of the growing industry of today's action cameras.  Yes, it has the quality HD video up to 1080p, a 16MP camera and is submersible down to 196 feet with the waterproof housing...but the big seller for me was the remote wrist watch with the built in Live Viewing Display, LVD.  I looked at this feature as having a huge advantage to verify that I am capturing all the action instead of coming home only to be disappointed when I upload a video and find out my head was cut out of the entire shot.

What's included in the box?

• WASPcam Gideon 9902
• LVD RF wrist watch
• Waterproof casing
• Waterproof backing
• Vented backing
• Swivel T-Tip
• T-Tip adapters
• Safety lock
• Flat adhesive mount
• Curved adhesive mount
• Li-Ion rechargeable battery
• Micro USB Cable
• Wrist watch charging cable
• Velcro strap
• Secure tether
• Anti-fog inserts
• WASPcam CD-ROM
• Instruction Manuals

First impressions

Overall, I was very impressed with the design and layout of the WASPcam Gideon.  The simplicity of the 2 button layout makes navigating the LED display very simple.  I was able to smoothly navigate through the camera settings in a matter of seconds and there was no lag between each function.  Another plus was the bright LED screen, even in the bright sunlight I was able to clearly see the screen which will be a big plus when navigating the water on a bright and sunny day.

The wrist watch is one thing I really like about the WASPcam Gideon and helped in my decision on purchasing this camera.  The .83" Live Viewing Display synced up quickly with the camera and I was able to see the video display fairly clear, there was a slight lag but not enough to cause any negative as that is expected.  The only issue I had at first was connecting the charging cable to the wrist watch, but once I figured out how to angle the connector in place I had no further issues.

Now on to the components...there are several accessories for this camera that can be used for almost all outdoor applications from head mount to chest mounts, rail mount to scope mounts and adhesive mounts to extension poles.  WASPcam has almost all sports covered with their rugged and versatile mounting systems which helps to capture any shot from nearly any angle.  The only negative that I have encountered is you have to purchase cameras or accessories through an Authorized WASPcam Dealer or online.  For some people, you may not be near a dealer, and not all carry items and accessories in-store.  This can be worked around and poses little delay with receiving items, but sometimes I like seeing with my own eyes prior to buying.  I hope WASPcam continues to grow and expand their business to make their product more accessible for every outdoorsman.  (See authorized WASPcam dealers near you)

Want to see my first impressions and unboxing of the WASPcam Gideon?  Check out my YouTube Channel or click on the video below.  I am looking forward to testing out this camera and wrist watch over the next several weeks.  I plan on performing a variety of tests to see what this product is capable of.  I'll be letting you know how things turn out and hopefully will have some fishing videos to share in the near future, until then...

Keep your Tail Dirty, and Fish On!

Unless otherwise stated, all content and photographs are ©DirtyTail Fishing. Please do not copy or distribute photographs without first asking for permission. Paid endorsement disclosure: In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of compensation for my endorsement, testimonial, and/or link to any products or services from this blog. Please know that I only recommend and endorse products and services that I personally approve, appreciate, and feel would be helpful for readers. All ideas and opinions expressed are completely my own. Thank you for supporting DirtyTail Fishing!