Dave Zalewski 460-9893We have had days recently that reinforce the fact that we continue to have world class fishing right here off our Gulf coast. Combining a combination trolling and bottom fishing trip with a group that consisted of 3 generations we landed a total of 14 different species of fish. Several of them such as sand perch and tomtates were returned to the water and we returned with a colorful box of great eating fish, The kids that were onboard who were visiting were amazed by the numbers and colors of the fish brought to the boat. Sometimes it is easy to forget to take the time to show families with children and locals who may be venturing offshore for the first time the wonders of nature that come up from the water. Triggerfish have remarkable teeth and the dorsal fin that will not retract until the second spine (trigger) is touched. Remoras, considered to be a nuisance , can provide a memorable experience by letting someone lay their hand flat on the fishes head and feel the suction. Porgies and mahis provide a neon like light show when left in the water for a short while before lifting them into the boat. Observing and explaining how the spots on fish such as redfish, sea trout and Lane snapper represent false eyes to confuse a predator as to which way fish is facing takes very little additional time and contributes to the overall experience. Members of the mackerel have very sharp teeth and use them to cut a baitfish in half, eating one portion and leaving the other half for one of their schoolmates. Bonita and barracuda also have unique characteristics. The pectoral fins fold back into a recess on side of their body allowing for lesser resistance when traveling through the water increasing their speed. Barracuda have two sets of teeth, one for cutting their prey in half and the other large ones for grabbing the prey once it is disabled.

ntaylor
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