Cool nights and balmy afternoons in the
Everglades National Park!

This is perfect camping weather and I like to go deep into the backcountry.  Leaving from Chokoloskee Island or Flamingo Outpost, runs of 40 miles or more through the preserved Everglades without seeing any signs of civilization,
make my trip.   But, the fishing is the main draw.   A recent trip with Bill Popfinger, Jr. proved worth the effort.   Many nice Redfish and Snook were released on fly, the largest about 26 inches.   We also released about 20 largemouth bass, an added bonus. They weren't real big but really spunky and hammered the same weedless Seaducer that I tie for small Snook.   It's a good overall backcountry pattern especially  tied in white with weighted eyes and a 20lb. hard-mason mono loop weed guard.

On the Florida Bay side, action can be fast and furious.  Ask Todd Robinson, He released many Spotted Seatrout, Jack Crevalle, Ladyfish and Sharks. About 30 minutes before heading in he hooked into what ended up being a 100lb.+ Bull Shark.   He fought it until dark when the line broke.   No problem, He vowed to settle the score this spring on giant Tarpon.

Out of the Upper Keys, Bonefishing has been excellent but I can't stress the importance of taking advantage of the clear and warm days.  Mike Geraci made a go of it on Sunday.  Tiny clouds were enough to make it tough.  But when the sun was out, He had some world-class shots at very large fish milling and mudding right at us.  Admitting lack of practice, Mike didn't hook one.   He usually does.   Good casters should have high expectations.   Novice anglers do have success with some warm-up casting prior to the trip.  I can't stress enough how important it is to practice short and quick casts.   I like to get out on the lawn on the windy days.

Monday got colder and windy.  Of course I set aside that day to fish with Don Phillips, fly fishing writer and inventor, and Doug Swisher, well known in all flyfishing circles.  The sun did cooperate in the morning but few Bones made it on to one of the warmest flats around.  There company made my day. These guys are true innovators of the sport. 

Good fishing!
Capt. Chris

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