Headed Home For Christmas

It is time for me to head back to Michigan and enjoy my family and do a little skiing. It has been a bit chilly in the Keys the last week. It is to cold to early!! I left the dock one afternoon sweating, returned in full rain gear and freezing. What a change!!

Fishing was holding up well until the last couple of days when water dipped into the fifties. It has been a real mixed bag at Ocean Reef Club of late. We have caught a couple of Permit, some nice Snook, several Bonefish and lots of Ladyfish, Jacks, Sharks and Snappers.

I hope the water has warmed into the seventies and it is sunny and warm upon my return to Ocean Reef.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Happy Thanksgiving

I can't believe it is the Holiday Season already! The past year is just a blur and a new one is just around the corner. Hope you all have a great time with your families this Thanksgiving!

Fishing business has slowed a bit for me , but I am still getting out a bit. Bonefishing has really picked up here at the Ocean Reef Club the last few days and the size of the fish has really increased. I will be on the water this afternoon and can't wait to get after them. We have also been seeing some monster Redfish in the Card Sound and Snook fishing remains good.

If you are at Ocean Reef this weekend I would love to get you on the water!

Tight Lines Capt. Dave

Back In The Goove

I have fished every day but one this week and feel like I am back in the groove! We have been catching a lot of fish, but sometimes they are not always the target species! No one seems to be complaining. The wind made it tough for a couple of days although it has been sunny and warm! My anglers yesterday caught a couple of bonefish and were also busy with lots of Jacks, Snappers and a couple of Snook.

All in all we sure cannot be complaining. Life is good!!

Tight Lines Capt. Dave

Windy and Chilly

The last few days have been very windy and chilly. We have spent most of our time in the creeks trying to stay out of the wind. We have had lots of action, everything from Mangrove snappers to 50-pound Tarpon. We have had a group from UBS visiting and they have kept us busy!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Back in ther Keys

Well I am happy to tell you I am back in the fabulous Florida Keys! Had a blast coming down with my daughter Jessica. We met up with my son Joshua in Raleigh, North Carolina and took in the Florida State at North Carolina State football game. A good time was had by all!!

I am back on the job now and getting back into the groove. I fished yesterday with Meg Blair. It was a rainy day so we stayed close to the Club. We had a lot of action and Megs dog Buster had a ball chasing fish, as they came aboard. I have two trips tomorrow.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Fall Update

I am setting here at my desk looking out at the beautiful fall color wondering where the summer went. It is all just a blur, seems like I just returned from the Keys yesterday!

I guess it is time to touch base with you all and let you know what my plans are for this fall. I will be up and running at Ocean Reef on November 1st as usual. I will be there until December 9th when I will return to Michigan for Christmas. The 28th of December I will be back on the boat and ready to catch some bonefish!

If you are interested in making some fishing plans you can email me at guilttrip25@hotmail.com or call me at 989-390-9135. You can also call Orvis Ocean Reef at 305-367-5920 and they can book a trip. I look forward to fishing with you soon.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Beautiful Weather

Last summer never happened and that makes the beautiful weather we are having now so sweet! Cool nights and 80-degree days just can't be beat!

Fishing is still in a typical summer pattern. We are having Tricos in the morning along with Olives. The rest of the day we plug along with Ants and Hoppers. We have been catching lot's of fish just nothing large most are beautiful Brookies!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Summer Action

The morning rise has been good with Trico"s and Olives and midday I have been using small black Ants. We have been catching nothing large, but getting lots of action!

I also have been doing a lot of work on our house. I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Fly rods are more fun in my hand than hammers!!!

Tight Lines, Dave

Back In Action

It has been a while since I have left a new post, but I have been covered up with customers and family. It was a wild Fourth Of July for me with both sets of grandchildren and lots of customers! I had a blast swimming , fishing and just plain having fun with my grandchildren and made some money to boot.

On the fishing scene their have been Trico's and Olives in the morning and Terrestrials during the day. Lots of small fish action.

Tight Lines, Dave

Lots Of Action

I fished last evening with Cam Jones and his father. We fished the Holy Water stretch of the AuSable. We got started around 5 and fished until 10:30. We had lots of action using a Patriot fly. The the fish were all small in the 8 to 10-inch range. It was a lot of action a a beautiful evening to be on the AuSable. Life is Good!

Tight Lines, Dave

Changing Gears

It is time for me to change gears for a while. I am trying to prepare for a busy holiday weekend. Instead of fishing I have been busy mowing grass and getting canoes and trailers all set for what we hope will be a crazy crowd. We also have lots of family coming in for the holiday. It should be a lot of fun, but a lot different than what has been going on the last couple of weeks.

Tight Lines, Dave

Transition Time

We have fished very hard the last couple days with very little success. I fished a half-day with a chap from Ann Arbor Thursday. We tried all layers of the stream, nymphs. streamers and dry flies and had little action. We did move a couple of nice fish on streamers, but no cigar.

Yesterday I fished with a father and son from Atlanta. Same story! I even took a spinning rod along for the boy who had never fly fished. Good news is, he liked fly fishing better! Bad new is, he only had a couple chases.

We should be getting started with Olives in the morning and terrestrials during mid day any day now.

Tight lines, Dave

More South Branch Action

I fished again last night on the Lower South Branch of the AuSable River. We had good action again and ended up releasing an 18 and 23-inch Brown trout. It looks a if we may have a few showers in the area tonight. We will just have to wait and see how the fish react!

Tight Lines, Dave

Blanket Hatch

I fished the Lower South Branch of the AuSable last night with Stacy Leon and his son Pablo. It was an interesting night to say the least! It started out slow with a little action on small flies. Around 11PM all hell broke loose. We had a blanket Hex hatch and large fish feeding all around us! Only one problem, it was a thousand to one shot the fish would choose our fly! Stacy did finally manage a dandy Brown, but we all had grey hair by the time we hit the landing. More madness to follow tonight!

Tight Lines, Dave

Still Hexomania

I fished the Conners Flats area of the AuSable last night with a father and son from Ann Arbor. It was the son's first night fishing trip. We started out with a bit of action on small trout and as the evening progressed we had a little bit of everything. We saw Surphors, Iso's and finally a few Hex. The son boated a nice Rainbow and hooked up on three dandy trout after dark, but they managed to slip the hook. We will be back at them again tonight!

Tight Lines, Dave

Hexomania

Hexomania is in full force now! I have been fishing every night and the River is loaded with boats and wading fishermen. Only problem is there is not a lot of catching going on!! With all the rain we had I am afraid most of the bugs got washed away. Every morning the phone lines are abuzz with stories, most are seeing one or two good fish. Not bad, but not great either. We fished last night and fished for three feeding trout. We released one around 18-inches. Tonight has to rock!!

Tight Lines, Dave

Chuck and Duck

I floated the AuSable yesterday with a couple of dear friends. There was very little surface activity so we pounded the water with big streamers. We had a lot of fish follow the streamers, but they most were just window shopping. We did manage to land a beautiful 19-inch Brown! That made our day!!

Tight lines, Dave

Lots Of Action

>
I fished the "Holly Water" of the AuSable yesterday with Tom and Bill from Findlay Ohio. It was cloudy and windy and the water was still about four inches high. We didn't know what to expect , but we were pleasantly surprised! We didn't catch any monsters, but we had lots of action on Sulphur emergers. Both guys managed a Slam; one each Brook, Brown and Rainbow Trout!

Many times I prefer lots of action on smaller fish than that one monster after dark. It is all in what you like! lots of rain in the night an gloomy today so far.

Tight Lines, Dave

Hex At the House

It looks like Hex are coming off pretty much every place. We had a good spinner fall at the house last night with just a few rising trout. We wait all year for this to happen and I hope a lot of friends don't miss it.

Got to get ready to do battle again tonight!

Tight Lines, Dave

Back In Action

Friday night we had on hell of a storm on the AuSable! The river went from being very low to high in just a few short hours. We had a few canoeist out yesterday and it was tough sledding for them!

I was back in action fishing today and it was a pleasant surprise! We caught six nice trout fishing with large streamers. The water is still high and dirty, but some of the fish don't care.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Out Of Commission

It is with much regret I have to be out of commission for a couple of days. I need to have some routine test done which require me to be out action and on the down low! It could not have come at a worse time, but who would know when you schedule that the Hex would be this early. Catch a couple for me and I will be back in action Saturday.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Lovely Float

We had a great float this afternoon. The weather was a bit shaky at the start , but it turned out to be a great afternoon. We fished mainly with Isonychia Emergers and Sulphur Duns. We landed a half dozen Brown Trout and solved all the problems of the world! Must contact BP to fill them in our solutions for the well!!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

All Work

Working my butt off around the camp today! Between the lawn, fence repair and work on boats no time for fun today. I have to wait until tomorrow to get back on the river again. The trout better be looking out because I will be ready to show no mercy. Got word there was some hex on the Stillwater last night. We better be ready or we will miss it!!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Chilly Night

Fished last night with a fellow from Chicago it was a pretty evening , but it got chilly. I had 40-degrees when we got in the van at the landing. We had plenty of flies, but the fish were a bit sluggish. We did manage to catch a good brown trout. Looks like it will be cool for a couple more days.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Night Action

I fished last night with Bob Zucker from Cleveland Ohio. We had a great evening and hit the brown drakes just right. We landed some dandy browns and had several give us the slip. The largest was 19-inches! All in all it was a great trip.

Tight Lines Capt. Dave

Work and Fun

I have been working hard trying to get everything around our camp ready for summer. Everything from yard work to a couple of new signs. All very labor intensive. We still find time to have some fun on the river. Above is a picture of my new granddaughter Roxey balancing on the bow during a canoe outing. See seems to be fitting in well!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Back on the River

It was great to be back fishing again yesterday after the crazy holiday weekend. We fished late afternoon from Wakeley Bridge to the Townline. We caught lots of brown and brook trout, but none were worthy of a photo. I did take a couple of shots of the beautiful scenery.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Deep Breath

It was a wild and wooly Memorial Day weekend on the AuSable River. I was running around like a chicken with his head cut off trying to keep everyone happy. Lots of drunks and loudmouths out of course. All I could do was watch the fish rise and dream of fishing. One of our guest did catch a 17-inch Brown Trout while fishing one evening! I am putting things back together today and will be fishing tomorrow.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

First Light

I fished early this morning with a couple of great guys. One was from Singapore the other was from Midland Michigan. We left early to accommodate a long return flight to Singapore. It was great to be on the water a first light, but it was 46-degrees and the fish weren't awake yet. We threw everything we had at them and only managed a few Brookies. Beautiful as they are we were hoping for more and bigger fish! Guess we can't always have what we want!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Night Time Action

Busy today with fisherman coming in to enjoy Holiday Weekend on the AuSable. Cabins are filling up and boat is ready for early mission tomorrow. Big News Flash!! Brown Drake spinners on the Mainstream last night. Hang on guys things are starting to break loose!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Getting Ready

Spent the day today getting supplies in for the big weekend! Trying to get all the canoes and kayaks ship shape and my fishing boat totally ready. Not much left to do on boat after yesterdays shake down trip. Weather in Northern Michigan is wonderful for this time of year! We just got off the River taking an evening canoe ride. Lots of large Stone Flies on the water and a few fish feeding.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Back In Action

It was my first trip back on the Ausable today! I fished with a couple of guys from Detroit. We had lots of great action and landed lots of Browns and Brook Trout. We fished mainly with three flies Sulfur Duns, Grey Stone Flies and Mahoganies. It was wonderful to be back on the river.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Back On the AuSable

I finished my return trip yesterday around 4 PM. I was in a kayak and floating the River by 5! It is wonderful to be home on the River I love. The Flats of the Keys are super but Michigan is home to me. It was a very uneventful two days on the road.

I went out with a bang in Key Largo, we won the tournament going away final tally was 7 Tarpon, 3 Snook and 2 Bonefish. Now I must get ready for the Trout!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Wild Finish

I was fishing with a couple anglers in an Ocean Reef Club Flats Tournament. We had an unbelievable day on the water! It started off around 9AM with the hookup of a 100-pound Tarpon! It took over an hour to release him and head off for more adventure. Before the day would end we landed three more Tarpon and added two nice Snook. We were the High Lines for the day, but have to fish tomorrow also.

After fishing tomorrow the boat goes on the trailer and I am off for the summer in Michigan. I will be out of service while I am in route. I will fill you in upon my arrival in Michigan.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

So Close

I fished with a couple of old buddies from South Florida yesterday. Our target was Permit. We got close right out of the blocks! Ten minutes into the trip we spotted a fining Permit in the slick calm water. I was warned at the start that they where not seasoned Flats Anglers. It proved to be true! After several errant cast the permit moved away. I should have brought a prozac with me!! We had shot at six Permit in all and no hookups. We all had to learn sometime and I know they would take me to school Offshore where they fish most of the time. We lowered the bar and ended up catching six sharks, which was great fun and it put a bow in the rod! Great to see all the Permit!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Tarpon Snub

I fished with the Flippins last night going for Tarpon. Faze on was a success we found lots of rolling Tarpon. Faze two just never happened! We caught more huge Jacks, but Tarpon were just laughing at us. It was a beautiful evening and we had a great time. We are fishing again Friday and Saturday so I am sure we can seal the deal. They will be my last mission in Florida for the season on Saturday. The AuSable and all my Trout friends are calling!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Big Jacks

I fished with a couple of guys from Pennsylvania yesterday. We were looking for Tarpon on fly. The weather got really cloudy for us and we couldn't see the fish very well. We choose to switch to live bait and head for the Creeks. We had nonstop action with big Jacks and Groupers! We had two double hookups and had a great afternoon!! I will be looking for Tarpon again tonight.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Slow Day

I fished yesterday morning with a lady from Ocean Reef Club. We were looking for either Tarpon or Bonefish on fly. It was very had to see with the wind and clouds. We burned a lot of fuel and covered a lot of flats to no avail. We had one fish eat the fly and run off some line , but he spit it out and away he flew. Today is going to be better!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Another Bonefish Day

I left Ocean Reef Club this morning with a couple of members. Our target species was Tarpon. We first stopped in Broad Creek and Tarpon were rolling everywhere! We stayed for an hour and never managed a bite. Next stop we tried for Bonefish. After 15 minutes we caught a nice one! Next stop we tried for Tarpon again and again no bites. We tried for Bonefish one more time and caught another dandy!! Life is good!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Bonefish Morning

I fished with a couple from Vermont this morning. We left Ocean Reef Club Looking for Bonefish. We hit several flats with no luck. I than ran up to Ceasers Creek and we began to see some fish. Before we left the Creek we landed three beautiful Bonefish. Largest was 9-pounds! It was still windy but fish didn't care. Looking for tarpon in the AM.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Widy Weather

It was another windy day in sunny South Florida. My mission today was canceled because the clients plane needed to leave to avoid the strong winds. I spent the day cleaning out my apartment getting ready to head back to Michigan. Next week is filling up so I have to get ready ASAP.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Sad Day

It was a very sad day for me today. It was the last trip of the season for me with Fred Pape and Gail Guyton. We have fished an afternoon a week for many years. We share a passion for fly fishing and also share conservative values. It is a sad time of year when my regular customers head north for the summer! Another week and I will be heading north for the AuSable and the Trout.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Challenging Day

Yesterday was cloudy and windy in Key Largo. We left the dock looking for Bonefish knowing it was going to be a struggle. I was fishing with a couple from New Jersey and we were fishing with a fly rod. We visited several flats with no luck. Finally we ended up at Ceasers Creek and we were able to seduce A Bonefish with a spawning shrimp pattern. It was tough, but we pulled it off at the end!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Boat Work

I had the day off today so I used the time to catch up on lots of much needed boat work. My baby got a good cleaning from bow to stern and a little TLC for the motor. Hoping to be back on the Flats tomorrow with some good fish action!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Visual Grand Slam

I fished with a couple from New York City today. I was another glorious day in the Florida Keys. We had a light north west wind when we left the Ocean Reef Club. We headed out looking for Bonefish, Permit and Tarpon on Fly. During the course of this grand day we had a shot at them all! We had more opportunities at Tarpon. We saw them in all sizes. We were able to have two eats and get lots of jumps, but nothing to the boat. We returned with our heads held high knowing we did our best!!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Tarpon On Fly

I fished with a nice guy from New Jersey this morning. It was slick calm a we left Ocean Reef Club. At our first stop we had had a great shot at some fining Permit. The combination of a long winter without casting and a big fly rod did us in. As the morning progressed so did the casting level. The Flats were alive with Tarpon this morning and we capped it off with a 100-pounder on a Black Death.

This afternoon I fished with a mother and daughter from Miami. We had lots of shots at both Tarpon and Permit. We were hooked up to a dandy Permit when a huge school of Tarpon came by and cut the line with their fins! Bummer!!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Good Cause

I fished with a group of guys representing a good cause today. The Generous Giving Org. It was a beautiful day and we had lots of fun on the water! First we caught some rod benders up in the Creeks. We then moved to the Flats looking for Bonefish. We came in contact with a Hammerhead Shark that was at least 10-feet long. It was a wonderful creature! We tried several Flats to no avail than Matt Mancinelli managed to land a nice Bone! We saw several more Bull Sharks then back to Ocean Reef. I have an early trip tomorrow lets think Big!!!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Dandy Tarpon

I fished this morning with two fellows from Ocean Reef. It was a beautiful morning with light wind. We started out catching a big Barracuda. Next stop we landed a 100-pound Tarpon and a dandy Jack! We finished of the morning with a couple of Groupers.

On the afternoon trip we started out hot! We had four shots at Permit on fly! Our afternoon mission was interrupted with some boat issues. Back at it tomorrow!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Life Is Good

I fished with a group of guys from the New York City area today. We headed out from Ocean Reef Club looking for anything that swims. We ended up In Card Sound and had good luck right off the bat. We Landed three nice Snook and jumped a dandy Tarpon. Weather was wonderful and we enjoyed every second. We headed back across the Sound and ended up on the edge of a channel. We had a couple of big hits, but failed to keep them on the line. It was time to head back to the dock so away we went. Day off tomorrow, lot's to catch up on!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Super Day

I had an outstanding day on the Flats today. This morning I fished with Cris Watkins and a friend from Palm Beach. We headed for the far side of Card Sound and the fun started. Cris started out catching a couple of Snook. New angler same results, before it was over we had three Snook and four Tarpon!! What a great morning!

This afternoon we left Ocean Reef looking for Oceanside Tarpon. First stop bingo! We had a plug and a crab in front of them, but no bites. We traveled to several other spots before we hooked a monster Barracuda, he gave us a great fight and finally took us around an island and away he went. What a great day!

Tight lines, Capt. Dave

Fun Fishing

I fished today with a couple of great guys from Seattle. We fished with both spin and fly rods. I burned a lot of gas today and we saw lots of different fish. We even managed to catch a couple of Sharks. The most excitement for the day came at the very end. We ran into a huge school of Tarpon! At least a hundred fish! It was wild. We were taking waves over the bow , but it was fun just to watch the fish! It would have been great to catch one , but it was lots of fun to be in their space!!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

May Day

May got off to a weird start in Key Largo today. It was totally cloudy this morning, sunny midday and totally cloudy late this afternoon. I fished out of Ocean Reef Club with a group from the Dairy Industry. We had a busy trip. I started out in Midnight Pass looking for Bonefish. There we caught a couple of Sharks. We moved back across Card Sound and fished a Creek where we landed 20 Mangrove Snappers. Last stop was on a Flat where we caught a Bonefish! Fun Day!!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Rod Benders

It was a cloudy windy day in Key Largo today. I had two half-day trips. We tried to fish the Flats on both charters, but It made more sense to head for the Creeks and go for some action. We caught lots of big Jacks and Mangrove Snappers. On the morning trip we hooked into something big, but he finally slipped the hook. Tomorrow is supposed to be more of the same!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Monster Permit

I had a wonderful day on the water today! Had a nice morning trip with two guys from Vero Beach. We had some great shots at Bonefish, then stopped at the Creeks for some super action on Jacks. We caught them up to 6-pounds. We then went back to the Flats where we had four shots at big Tarpon, no eats.

This afternoon I fished with old friend Tom Meyers and his guest from Mississippi. We started things off with a bang! Tom hooked up on a 30-pound Permit! It has been his quest for some time so it was a HUGE thing! Then we went looking for Bonefish , which we found but could not make eat. It was an all around great day.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Back To Normal

Today was back to normal after yesterdays storms. Lots of puddles and some downed trees. We had tornado warnings but no touchdowns.

I fished this afternoon with Mona Brewer from Ocean Reef Club. We were fly fishing for Tarpon and Bonefish. Had no luck with Tarpon , but had some great shots at Bonefish. Discovered they don't like fly line on their heads! We had lot's of laughs!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Stormy Weather

It was a windy stormy day in Key Largo today. I had huge plans to catch Permit, Bonefish and a giant Tarpon today! All those plans had to be placed on hold until tomorrow. We had lots of wind, lightning and driving rain. It was a good day to tie flies and catch up on paper work. Look out tomorrow

Tight Lines, Cap. Dave

Nice Tarpon

I had two fun trips yesterday. In the afternoon I fish with people from Michigan and Connecticut. We Looked on the Flats for Bonefish, but it was quite windy. We opted for the Creeks and had a blast catching lots of Jacks, Snappers and Porgies.

In the evening I went out with Andrew the Tennis Pro at the Club and his future brother in law. We went so several spots and saw nothing. At our last stop first cast we hooked up on a dandy Tarpon! After about a half hour fight we brought the Silver King up along the boat and snapped several photos. It ended up being a great night.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Scary Day

I was fishing yesterday with a father and son from Maryland. We were heading out to the flats for some Bonefishing. We were running through a small creek when a Spotted Eagle Ray jumped right beside the boat. Scary! We fished a couple of spots and were heading up to Ceasars Creek when a Spinner Shark jumped out of the water in our path. It luckily just brushed my passenger on the shoulder!! Real Scary!! It could have been serious! I guess we could say they were "Jumping In The Boat" Hoping for less drama today.

Tight lines, Capt. Dave

Big Tarpon

I fished yesterday afternoon with Gayle Guyton from Ocean Reef Club. It was another beautiful day on the water. We started out looking for Bonefish and had two good shots but they did not eat the fly. We looked for Permit for a while with no luck. Then we were off to the Oceanside flats looking for tarpon. We had several shots at nice schools of Tarpon but no one was interested. Tomorrow its a shotgun!!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Another Nice Day

I fished this morning with Ken Karl from Ocean Reef Club. We headed across Card Sound and began looking for some rolling Tarpon. It didn't take long for us to find some, but they were just having fun and not eating! We made two more stops and had the same results. Away we headed for the Ocean. We spent the rest of the morning looking for Bonefish. It clouded up a bit but we still saw a few fish, but failed to make them eat!

This afternoon I fished with a grandfather, father and young son. We started out looking for Bonefish and found a couple schools. Same story as this morning! We changed out theory and focused on finding my young client some action. He ended up his trip with ten feisty Snappers and an angry Needle fish! A good time was had by all!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Glorious Day

Today was the best day in six weeks! Bright sun and no wind made it perfect. I fished this morning with Ocean Reef Tennis Pro Andrew. We had some great shots at rolling Tarpon. He had four eat the top water plug and got some great jumps out of one! We also had shots at some big Bull Sharks and Barracuda.

This afternoon I fished with a couple of guys from Michigan. They were just learning but managed to land four Sharks. We had a great time and they caught me up on Michigan gossip! Hope tomorrow is a pretty!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Another Yucky Day

It was cloudy and windy again today but we managed to get the day in. It was tough to sight fish today so we opted for blind casting shrimp. It is not what we like to do, but it beats setting on the couch! We did manage to land a nice Bonefish along with lots of rod benders. It looks as if the weather is about to change for the better so let's keep our fingers crossed!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Day Off

It was a stormy morning in the Florida Keys. I met my party at Ocean Reef Club and decided it was best to call off our mission. It kills me to lose a trip with the winter we have had here , but common sense prevailed! I have just come off a crazy week with three tournaments and all that goes with them. It is a lot of fun, but you need to sleep sometime. I have caught up on all my chores and will be ready to fish in the morning. Look out fish!!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Scary Wind

On the first day of the Anglers Club Tournament the wind was howling! It was hard to move from spot to spot and even harder to make a presentation to a fish! We had a chance at a school of Permit and not much else. Maybe we can catch a break today.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

More Wind

I fished yesterday morning with a mother and daughter from New Jersey. We left Ocean Reef Club in a stiff 30- knot wind! The first flat we tried we tried we caught two Sharks. We moved several times and ended up the morning with another Shark, two Triggerfish and a fat Grouper. Not bad for a windy day!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Rod Benders

I fished yesterday with Andy Hays and a friend from the Chicago area. We left Ocean Reef Club in some real windy conditions. We tried our best to sight fish for Bonefish and Permit. After a morning of very little action we gave in and went to the " All Else Has Failed" spot and finished the day with some rod benders. We used both shrimp and fly and finished the day with some action. The catch for the day included Sharks, Groupers and Snappers.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Rainy Day

Yesterday was a total washout! We tried to take kids out, but not a chance. It is supposed to be windy today but sunny today.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Cloudy Day

I was a cloudy windy day in key Largo yesterday. I fished in the morning with a couple from New Jersey. We Had a mixed style with one fishing bait the other fly. With the conditions we had the bait team won with a Shark a Flounder and some Snappers.

On the Afternoon mission I fished with Don Asher. Conditions got worse as the day went on! It was our last trip for the season so we spent most of out cloudy windy time going over shutdown of Dons Ocean Reef operation for season.

VIP trip today! My grandchildren from Cleveland. No pressure!!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Ocean Reef Flats Tournament

I fished yesterday with Don Asher and Matt Forelli In the Ocean Reef Flats tournament. It was a cloudy windy day on the flats. We fished hard and had some good shots at both Bonefish and Tarpon. We only managed to catch a 10-pound Bar Jack, great fight but wrong species! A Bonefish and Permit won. I am sure we had more fun on the boat and fixed all the problems of the world!!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Big Tarpon

I fished yesterday with Don Asher. We were mainly looking for Permit. It was a slow go on the Permit front. Where did they go after yesterday? That is what they do, make us crazy. Last hour of the day was insane for us with giant Tarpon. Saw over a hundred fish. They were just resting and hanging out, not eating! We will prevail today!!!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Permit Crazy

I left the dock at Ocean Reef yesterday morning with a couple fellows from the D.C. area. They just wanted to catch some fish! We started out catching a couple of Sharks. Then we went to a flat on the edge of a channel and our luck changed we ended up catching two small Permit!!

On the afternoon trip we were fly fishing for Bonefish and Permit. We had four great shots at large Permit, but they would only window shop. We had really good looks but no takers. Today we are going to resort to live Crabs!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Bonefish Bonnies Tournament

I fished in a flats tournament yesterday with Mona Brewer and Sandy Rule. It was a beautiful day and we had some good shots at both Bonefish and Permit. Mona was fly fishing and Sandy was using bait. We had no hookups sorry to admit. It was a fun time and a wonderful dinner following.

Tight lines, Capt. Dave

Bonefish Day

It was a Sunny breezy day In the Florida Keys. On my Morning trip I fished with a father and son from both Coast. We were fly fishing for Bonefish and Tarpon. We had some great shots but were unable to manage a hookup.

On the afternoon mission I was fishing with a trio from all over also. We left Ocean Reef and headed for Card Sound we caught a mess of Snappers and Jacks then we headed for the flats. That is when things heated up! We ended up with three Bonefish and two Sharks. What a great afternoon!! Tomorrow I have a tournament to fish.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Fun ,Fun, Fun.

It was a wonderful day on the water yesterday! I had three charters and we caught some scrappy fish. Finally some weather you would expect in the Florida Keys. Morning trip was a bit slow , but we made up for it on the last two trips. Highlights of the day was a afternoon Bonefish that launched himself back into the bay as we tried for a photo and a dandy Snook which I was able to get a photo of on the evening trip.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Shark Day

I fished with Don Asher and the Bowens from Chicago yesterday. We were looking for Bonefish and Tarpon. Saw a few of each , but we were only able to capture Bonnet Head Sharks. It was a lovely day and the Sharks gave us a great fight. We were also able to solve most of the worlds problems!

Tight Lines Capt. Dave

Tailing Bonefish

Yesterday was a glorious day. It was sunny and warm with a light breeze. I fished the morning trip with a father and daughter from long Island. We left Ocean Reef and headed west looking for some rod benders. They had a lot of action and caught lots of Snappers, Jacks and even a Blowfish. The daughter won round one, but round two is tomorrow evening.

On the afternoon trip I fished with a father and son from Indianapolis. We spit our time between fishing for dad and son. Dad had some great shot at both laid up Tarpon and tailing Bonefish.He was a bit rusty from a long winter and only managed to spook the targets. We went to the secret spot for the son and managed to release a mess of Mangrove Snappers, a less wary quarry. Tomorrow looks great!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Big Tarpon

I headed out from Ocean Reef yesterday with Tee Rowe fly rod in hand looking for Tarpon. At the first stop we found several schools of rolling residents. Tee got the fly close but we did not make contact. We had bright sun and no clouds so the fish were spooky all day. We headed out to the ocean in the afternoon. After about an hour we encountered our target, several 100-pound Tarpon coming down the shore. It was a thing of beauty. Tee got various shots , but never got the fly in the wheelhouse. All we could do was watch them slide away! Tomorrow is another day!!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Wonderful Day

I had a wonderful on the water today! On the morning trip I fished with a father and son from the D.C. area. It was a crisp sunny morning. We had a great time fishing and caught lots of fish. Everything from Snappers to Ladyfish and everything in between.

On the afternoon mission I was joined by a father and son from Delaware. We headed to the north looking for Bonefish. They were really hiding this afternoon so we decided to just catch some fish, We caught lots of Snappers a Black Drum and a Jack. It was a beautiful smooth ride back to Ocean Reef Club.

Tomorrow looks great!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Stormy Weather

Yesterday was a weather shortened day. We left Ocean Reef Club early to beat some oncoming weather. I was fishing with part of a group from Delaware. We fished for a couple of hours and caught two Sharks and lost a Bonefish after a good run. Then I got a call from the Charter Desk telling me of a Tornado Warning!! We raced back to the dock , but still got caught in a nasty squall. We had gust up to 45kts and driving rain. I was ten minutes to late getting back to the dock, wet but safe!!! Better weather today.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Shark Day

I fished two trips yesterday and both were cloudy and windy. In the morning I was fishing with a father and daughter from New York City. We usually fly fish but thought with conditions bait would be better. They managed to coral three Bonnet Head Sharks and release a small Bonefish at the boat.

On the Afternoon mission I left Ocean Reef Club with a young Couple from Traverse City Michigan. We headed out with fly rod in hand. It became very windy but we kept plugging away with the fly rod. We had two Sharks eat the fly, but never got the hook set. At the last stop we had a shot at a school of big Snook, but caught a Mangrove instead!

Looks like a rainy day today. Yuck!!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Yucky Day

I fished with Don Asher Friday. We left his house at Ocean Reef Club and headed to the flats looking for Permit and Bonefish. It was very cloudy and we had a stiff south west breeze. We looked in several places to no avail and finally decided sight fishing was out for the day. The highlight of the day was Don trying out his new Orvis fly rod! It worked like a champ even in stiff breeze.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

75-Degree Water

We hit a milestone on the flats yesterday, the water reached 75-degrees! Tarpon and all else good should be just around the corner!

I fished with Fred Pape yesterday afternoon. We headed out from Ocean Reef Club looking for Permit on fly. First stop first minute and we sighted a big Permit. Fred made two presentations, but no cigar!! It went downhill from there. We had very little action for the rest of the trip.

I am ready to head out again and Hope Springs Eternal!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

More Family Fun

Last evening I fished with a family from Long Island. We headed out From Ocean Reef Club around 5 and headed to the flats. While fishing on the flats we landed 3 Sharks. Then we were off to the creeks. We hit a slow time for about an hour, but finished with a flurry!
We jumped 3 Tarpon and got one to the boat! We got back to Ocean Reef in the dark.

This morning I left ocean Reef with a nice family from Boulder Colorado. Again we headed to the flats and had great luck with the Sharks. We than ran north to Old Rhodes Key and worked the Oceanside flats. We only saw several Boxfish . Than we headed to the creeks and ended up with a mess of Snappers and a Porgy. We were back at Ocean Reef by noon.

Above are some pictures of other family catches.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Sunny Skies

It was a beautiful morning at the Ocean Reef Club We fished both the Ocean and Bay side of the Club and had a wonderful trip. We were fly fishing for Bonefish, Tarpon and Permit this morning and we had a visual on two of the three. It was almost as if we were throwing hand grenades at the fish! One cast and away the would race.

I am taking a break and will be departing on an evening Tarpon trip at 5 P.M. It will be fun as I am fishing with a group from Long Island I have fished for years. More to follow tomorrow.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Permit Day

Today I was greeted with a very strong southeast wind. We questioned whether we should leave the dock this morning or not. We decided to give it a try and we were glad we did!
We ended up having several shots at tailing Permit! The wind was just to strong for us to get a good shot. We also saw some large Blacktip Sharks.

On the afternoon trip we started out looking for Snook with the fly rod. We saw several big ones but no bites. At our next stop we spotted a very large Permit tailing along a ridge on the flat. I worked the boat into position and my angler let the fly go. He was about a foot off and the Permit got the daylights scared out of him. At least we were in the game and got a response. At our last spot we switched to live shrimp and released a Bonefish at the boat.

It was a long day poling into the wind, but it was very exciting and well worth the hard work!!

Tight lines, Capt. Dave

Lots Of Kids

I look forward every year to Spring Break! I so enjoy fishing with all the kids. I like kids of all ages. It is so rewarding to see the smiles on their faces when they pull in a fish, see a croc or a manatee. With the older ones I love to pick their brains and see what they think of the world around them. It is really a pleasure to be on the water with them!!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

March Madness

I had three trips yesterday! I didn't get hope until late and am leaving now for two trips today. Weather is great, fish are biting, more to follow later.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Lots Of Fun

I had two super charters today! This morning I fished with a family from Connecticut. We had a great time and caught Sharks, Jacks and Snappers. It was a bit cool but the sun was out and it didn't take long to warm us up.

This afternoon I fished with Fred Pape and Gail Guyton. After a great lunch at the Raw Bar we headed out from Ocean Reef. We spent the afternoon fly fishing for Tarpon and Snook. We had some super shots but had no takers. The wind blew up as the day progressed and it was a rough ride home.

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Good Day For Ducks

It was a gloomy rainy day when we left the dock at Ocean Reef Club. I was fishing with William Lewis from Texas. William is on spring break and wanted to do some fly fishing. Sight fishing was a little tough but we did have some shots at Bonefish. Finally I headed across the bay and we ended up in the canals at Turkey Point. Fishing was hot for almost an hour! We landed several nice Snook, lots of Ladyfish, Jacks and Snappers. The fly rod was on fire! We finally gave in to the rain and headed back to Ocean Reef Club.

Tomorrow is going to be a nice day and I can't wait to get back at them!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Life Is Good

I had a wonderful day fishing at Ocean Reef yesterday. I Left the dock with the boys in the morning with a stiff north breeze. We headed for the creeks and caught lots of stuff. The wind diminished and we slid off to the flats where we caught several scrappy Sharks. We then headed back to Ocean Reef for lunch.

After lunch the ladies arrived and we were off again. We had a wonderful afternoon. Two of the ladies were beginners and need some coaching. After some work we were ready to fish! The ladies all caught fish and enjoyed their time on the water! Back to the Club and back to work as Mom's for the ladies.

Fly fishing today!!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Long Day

I had a long day yesterday. I fished all day with Don Asher and had a night mission with two spring breakers form Vermont. Don and I had a interesting day Bonefishing. We covered a lot of ground and saw a lot of fish. None of which were Bonefish! We saw all sizes of Sharks, Snook, Boxfish, lots of Stingrays and caught lots of fish in the creeks with the fly rod.

Our evening mission left Ocean Reef Club in a howling west wind and headed for the creeks. I have never had very good luck fishing with a west wind , but nothing would surprise me any more. It was a very slow evening. We caught one Flounder. Tomorrow will be a new day and hope springs eternal!!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Fly Fishing Fun

I fished this afternoon with Matthew and Erin Guzowski from Vermont! We left Ocean Reef Club and pounded our way across they Bay! Once on the other side we began to have fun fly fishing. Both Matthew and Erin caught lots of fish and we had fun visiting on the boat. We also saw a Crocodile a Manatee and some Wood Storks to round out our trip. Then we pounded our way back to Ocean Reef. It was a nice afternoon!

Tomorrow I have a full day and a Tarpon trip at night. Have to make hay-----!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave

Rainy Day

We did not fish yesterday because of thunder storms. There was an 80 percent chance so we didn't take any chances! As it turned out we could have fished the morning. I just don't like to take a chance with lightning and small open boats! Going this morning and am looking for some great things. Going to catch a Bonefish today or else!!

Tight lines Capt. Dave

Permit On The Flats

I started out the morning yesterday with a beautiful six year old and her father. The ride to the fishing spot was a little bumpy and wet and I thought she was a bit scared. Boy was I wrong! That was her favorite part of the trip. She was a real trooper, along with catching 2 Snook and 10 Snappers she was always in the baitwell getting bait for her father and myself. We had a fun morning!

In the afternoon I was fishing with Fred Pape my regular Thursday fare. It was bit breezy but we headed for the flats fly rod in hand. Fred had several shots at Snook on our first stop, but no hookups. On our second stop all hell broke loose! I noticed a movement off to my right and was shocked when four black tails began wagging in the breeze. Fred made two good presentations but the wind was blowing us down on the fish. Away went the Permit! A few minutes later we saw a second group of Permit, but It clouded up and we ended up just casting where we thought they might be. No cigar! It was wonderful to see those guys up on the flats and doing business!!

Tight Lines Capt. Dave

Fishing Fun

I had a fun day fishing with the Cromptons from Charlotte. We had a beautiful morning on the water with light wind and sunny skies. We came back to Ocean Reef for lunch and returned to fishing. The afternoon was a little windy which restricted our location choice a bit. Bonefishing was still slow, but we caught lots of other fish in their place! Our catch included Snook, Black Drum, Ladyfish, Snappers and Jacks. Can't wait to get back at them today!

Tight Lines, Capt. Dave