SOUTH GEORGIA KAYAK FISHING

Alapahoochee convergence at Alapaha River - Jennings, FL

2011-09-03T16:43:00.032-04:00

Alapa - WHAT - chee?

Who names these rivers?

When I first heard of the Alapahoochee it sounded like a joke. But there it is! Locals have called it the Little River, Little Alapaha or Grand Bay Canal.

Deep in South Georgia, Mud Creek and Grand Bay Creek join to form the Alapahoochee River. Just over 14 miles long flowing between Lowndes and Echols Counties it crosses into Florida to empty into the Alapaha River just east of Jennings.

View Larger Map

There is a nice boat ramp on CR 150 out of Jennings. Just east of the CR 150 bridge you will find a small road on your left (north) taking you to a small parking area and boat ramp.

CLICK ANY IMAGE TO ENLARGE

It's a long ramp. You can see my truck way up at the top. The bottom is concrete with sandy bottom areas on both sides of the concrete, at least when the river is low.

The boat ramp will put you within about 200 yards of the Alapahoochee's convergence with the Alapaha River. The boat ramp seems to be a pretty popular place for people to bring their kids to swim and wade and fish.

Below you'll see the entrance to the Alapahoochhee on the left as it enters the Alapaha River on the right. The flow is toward you from the North.

Click to see the picture enlarged.

Alapahoochee on the left and Alapaha on right.

When I arrived, before I unloaded the kayak, I tossed out a small baby shad soft bait (white with sparkles) under a tree to the right of the boat ramp and immediately hooked up with a very small bass. Hmmm, things were looking good!

Last fish I caught.

I brought my fly rod but forgot my flies . . . I hate gettin' old!

Probably a good thing, though. The Alapahoochee would be better fished with a shorter 3 wt and I would have been using a 9' 6 wt. However, my nine footer would have been fine on the Alapaha.

The above ramp east of Jennings is good for put in and take out.

The GA SR 135 bridge is another story.

Alapahoochee at GA SR 135 bridge

A take out can be done but it's a steep 25 foot 45 degree slippery climb over sand covered rocks. Putting in would be less difficult but still not easy.

The SR 135 take out. A steep, slippery climb!

I offered to help this gentleman and his wife get his boat up the bank. I think she was a bit put out when he declined my offer.

. . . I wasn't.

Not a bit!

OK, maybe I need a mascot with a white striped black tail. No fish pix but enjoy the scenery.

The famous Alapahoochee Waterfall.

I used my Ocean Kayak Big Game for this trip but would have been better served by my OK Trident 11. The BG's a bit big to maneuver for such a small river at this water level. The Big Game is certainly doable and took little from my enjoyment of the trip.

As you can see below the bigger Alapaha would pose no difficulty for the Big Game. And I always enjoy the BG's greater stability.

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LINKS:

Current Georgia river levels: Real Time Georgia Streamflow

Solunar Tables for your zip code: HERE

Rigging your kayak: Captain Dick

FORUMS

Georgia Kayak Fishing

Georgia River Fishing

Jax Kayak Fishing

Gulf Coast Kayak Fishing (you might need to be registered to view this one)

FLY FISHING RESOURCES

DP Poppers

Fly Fishing West Georgia

Books and DVD by George Roberts:

Master the Cast

Fly Fisherman's Guide to Saltwater Naturals and Their Imitation

Saltwater Casting - 10 Steps to Distance and Power (DVD)

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If you are a resident of Georgia and like to fish from a kayak I recommend becoming a supporting member of the Georgia Kayak Fishing Association located at GeorgiaKayakFishing.com.

Lake Nichols - Pavo, GA - Brooks County

2011-08-17T17:46:00.017-04:00

Click any image to enlarge

Contact: Lamar Nichols

229-859-2423

Lake Nichols is located about 23-24 miles northeast of Thomasville, GA. off GA 122. From Thomasville take GA 122 through Pavo. Continue 5-6 miles and turn south on CR 274 (Tallokas Rd). From I-75 one would take Exit 29 (GA 122) at Hahira and drive west 16 to 17 miles to CR 274 (Tallokas Rd). Driving south on CR 274 about a mile or so you'll find Nichols Lake on your right. Easily seen from the road it's hard to miss.

View Larger

The dam to form the lake was completed in the 1800's. It was first called Adams's Mill Pond and later owned by someone named Melton. Since 1944 the lake has been owned by the Nichols family.

In the 1950's the dam broke. While the water was down it was cleared out, refilled and used for water skiing. Later, they created some catfish ponds and raised catfish. This continued for a few years until the plant buying the catfish flopped. It finally ending up in its present state as a lake for fishing and duck hunting. No longer used for raising catfish the old catfish ponds are great for bank fishing and are accessible by boat from the main lake, too.

STUFF YOU NEED TO KNOW:

DATES

- Lake March 1st through October 31st. Otherwise, closed for duck hunting.

- Old catfish ponds April 15 through October 31st (protected for bass spawning)

HOURS

- 6 AM - 9 PM (no fishing after dark which means these hours change as the days get shorter)

FEES

- Fishing from the bank is $4
- Kayak $4 if not fishing (bring a newbie let him learn how easy navigating a kayak is while you fish and show how easy is it to fish from one)
- To fish from a boat or kayak $6 per person.

- Renting one of their boats is $5 (includes paddle and PDF)

OTHER

- Outboard motors at idle speed only.

Mr. Nichols has a nice little shed at the lake where he can take your cash. There are drinks and snacks available but no bathroom facilities.

The Shack

You may find that launching a kayak will be easiest at the south end of the lake. Just get back on the paved road and drive south about a quarter mile to the south boat ramp. There is a gently sloping bank on both sides of the ramp that's ideal.

South boat ramp

No longer used to raise catfish the old catfish ponds are small enough to fish both sides from a boat if you prefer. The picture below shows three of the ponds at their convergence.

Old catfish ponds

Another view of one of the ponds

More views of the main lake

South ramp looking north toward the shack

Looking toward the west edge of the lake

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LINKS:

Current Georgia river levels: Real Time Georgia Streamflow

Solunar Tables for your zip code: HERE

Rigging your kayak: Captain Dick

Interactive map by Angling Technologies: HERE

FORUMS

Georgia Kayak Fishing

Georgia River Fishing

Jax Kayak Fishing

Gulf Coast Kayak Fishing (you might need to be registered to view this one)

FLY FISHING RESOURCES

DP Poppers

Fly Fishing West Georgia

Books and DVD by George Roberts:

Master the Cast

Fly Fisherman's Guide to Saltwater Naturals and Their Imitation

Saltwater Casting - 10 Steps to Distance and Power (DVD)

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If you are a resident of Georgia and like to fish from a kayak I recommend becoming a supporting member of the Georgia Kayak Fishing Association located at GeorgiaKayakFishing.com.

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Hagen's Cove near Keaton Beach, FL

2011-07-05T20:50:00.003-04:00

Hagan's Cove is owned by the state of Florida and located approximately 5 miles south of Keaton Beach on CR 400/361. A friend who knew I'd been looking for places to fish saltwater and who knew the area took me here.

It's clean with picnic tables, an observation deck and a restroom (actually just an upscale outhouse - bring your own toilet paper!) Except for the restroom it appears well kept.

Observation Deck

The "Bathroom" - TP not included

A bit of warning - this site tends to be isolated. My daughter and I came recently and my truck was burglarized while we were out on the water. If you must leave your vehicle pack your valuables with you.

The launch site is vehicle accessible and kayak friendly though shallow. On my last trip my daughter and I had to walk over a hundred yards to get our kayaks in deep enough water to sit in. Even at that paddling was more like poling. The tide was down, of course.

In fact, it's shallow pretty much everywhere. It will not be unusual for you to get out and pull your kayak behind you.

Wade fishing at the mouth of a creek immediately south of the launch site

As expected trout, reds and flat fish seem to be the popular targets. On my two trips I've come up skunked fishing the creek just south of the launch site but others have great success. I'm still new at this salt stuff.

Anyway you can do what I did. Enjoy the scenery!

I wish horseshoe crabs were good to eat. They're everywhere. Apparently, the only thing edible are the eggs.

After paddling for several hours time for an island break and redneck staples, Vienna sausage and crackers and an ice cold drink from my Polar Bear cooler.

This area is very beautiful and peaceful. I found this video made by Motohika from Japan that really captures the area well.

If you can't see the full screen, double click the middle of the video after it starts. Be sure to turn up the sound!

In addition to fishing, scalloping is very popular. The season usually runs July through September. For more info the link is HERE.

For tides and and local information call the Keaton Beach Marina at 850-578-2897. KBM's website is www.keatonbeachmarina.com and has a lot of additional info about the area.

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LINKS:

Current Georgia river levels: Real Time Georgia Streamflow
Solunar Tables for your zip code: HERE
Rigging your kayak: Captain Dick
Interactive map by Angling Technologies: HERE
FORUMS
Georgia Kayak Fishing
Georgia River Fishing
Jax Kayak Fishing
Gulf Coast Kayak Fishing (you might need to be registered to view this one)

FLY FISHING RESOURCES
DP Poppers
Fly Fishing West Georgia
Books and DVD by George Roberts:
Master the Cast
Fly Fisherman's Guide to Saltwater Naturals and Their Imitation
Saltwater Casting - 10 Steps to Distance and Power (DVD)

**********
If you are a resident of Georgia and like to fish from a kayak I recommend becoming a supporting member of the Georgia Kayak Fishing Association located at GeorgiaKayakFishing.com.
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Review - Polar Bear Coolers

2011-06-02T18:58:00.031-04:00

I was introduced to Polar Bear Coolers through forum members at GeorgiaKayakFishing.com. Lots of glowing reviews. When one became available with the GKF logo I pulled the trigger and bought a 12 pack. I've used it not only to keep stuff cold while kayaking and in the car on trips but transporting hot dishes for pot luck suppers. It's worked great!

Will it keep stuff cold very long? Let me tell you how I used it this week. Monday night I filled it with ice from the freezer. Tuesday morning I slipped in some Gator Aid, water and Zone bars then took off for the Gulf. The cooler traveled with me kayaking in the hot sun and provided ice cold drinks the whole time. After I got home Tuesday evening I found it had gobs of ice left and the ice was mostly loose, not melted into large block. I left it in the truck and it stayed there through all of Wednesday inside the hot truck sitting in the sun. Outside temps were right around 100 F so inside the truck was well over that. This Thursday morning I remembered the cooler, got it out of the truck and opened it. No the ice wasn't still there but the water temp I measured with my fishing thermometer was 52 F. Still cool after well over 48 hours in some brutal conditions!

I have found the 12 pack ideal for kayak fishing. It fits perfectly behind the seat of my Ocean Kayak Tridents and Big Games.

Red 12 pack Polar Bear Cooler rides directly behind my seat

(Click to enlarge)

When PBC was having a buy one get one free sale awhile back I got two more, both 24 packs. A red one I kept to go with my red 12 pack and a green one I gave away.

I really like the idea of a soft side cooler because it's easy to stuff into tight spaces. The outside cover is tough and has held up well. It has permanently attached hand straps with a removable shoulder strap..

On the down side because it has a zipper closure it will leak if turned upside down. If it is full of water from melted ice it'll leak if laying on its side. Otherwise, absolutely no problems with leaks.

Polar Bear cooler keeping things cool on a very hot day

I like this cooler. I use it often. I'm glad I bought it.

Here's the link - Polar Bear Coolers

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LINKS:

Current Georgia river levels: Real Time Georgia Streamflow

Solunar Tables for your zip code: HERE

Rigging your kayak: Captain Dick
Interactive map by Angling Technologies: HERE

FORUMS
Georgia Kayak Fishing
Georgia River Fishing
Jax Kayak Fishing
Gulf Coast Kayak Fishing (you might need to be registered to view this one)

FLY FISHING RESOURCES

DP Poppers
Fly Fishing West Georgia
Books and DVD by George Roberts:
Master the Cast
Fly Fisherman's Guide to Saltwater Naturals and Their Imitation

Saltwater Casting - 10 Steps to Distance and Power (DVD)

**********
If you are a resident of Georgia and like to fish from a kayak I recommend becoming a supporting member of the Georgia Kayak Fishing Association located at GeorgiaKayakFishing.com.

**********

St. Marks, FL

2011-04-15T23:18:00.067-04:00

Normally, a peaceful kind of place . . .

(Click any image to enlarge)

A local fisherman and his fishfinder.

Located on the Gulf of Mexico at the junction of the St. Marks and Wakulla rivers, St. Marks, Florida is a small quiet town approximately 16 miles south of Tallahassee. I have been there on other occasions sometimes on my bicycle. There is a rail-trail called the Tallahassee - St. Marks State Trail that allows you to make a leisurely 32 mile round trip by bicycle from Florida's state capital to St. Marks. It's flat, paved and well maintained.

Back in March I decided to drive down to this sleepy little town and scout the area to see what was available for kayaking and maybe throw an artie or two while I was there.

Sleepy little town? Boy! Was I surprised!! (note to self: do not come here during Spring Break!)

On past visits the parking lot next to the boat ramps had only a handful of cars. On this visit?

Packed!

And then the boats.

There were so many people launching they were putting in then parking as much as a quarter mile away and walking back. There were trucks and trailers parked all up and down the road.

Naturally, the waterway was almost as crowded. You'll need to click on these next two pictures to better appreciate what I mean.

I've never seen St. Marks this busy. Not that I'm there a lot, but based on previous visits it's always been quiet and laid back.

I drove around a bit to find a quieter place to launch and came across a little park northwest of the boat ramps called Wakulla River Park. The parking lot was close to the water. What seemed like a great launch site appeared as a grassy lawn gently sloping down to the water.

Looks really nice, huh? Backed my truck up to the grass, unloaded my OK Big Game and slid it down to the water. Off I went!

Heading south on the Wakulls I found a small creek off to my left that looked promising and headed up. It was teeming with minnows.

I've never seen so many minnows. There weren't millions, there must have been billions just filling up this creek.

No luck with DOA arties here so I continued south to the St. Marks River heading northeast past the boat ramps and up toward the marina. Enjoy some of the scenery.

Since this was a trip to scout out a launch site and get the 'yak wet, I wasn't too disappointed that nothing with scales was aboard as I returned to my launch site at Wakulla River Park.

The tide being lower, I found that my nice grassy launch site was now about 20 feet away from the waters edge separated by thick, deep, black muck that I had floated over on a higher tide when I left. Getting out of the kayak I sunk about a foot deep in the stuff and slowly slogged my way to the grass dragging the kayak along. I thought several times I would lose my shoes due to the suction as I would strain to lift a foot out of the muck.

In the above picture I had wiped a good bit off my legs but the muck extended half way up my calves. My shoes still aren't the same.

Well, this launch site wouldn't do unless one left and returned on the high tide.

Near the boat ramp I noticed an area that will prove to be a better site. This pavilion is to the left of the boat ramps near the bathrooms.

The grass slopes gently to the water making for an easy launch. And more importantly, as best I can tell, the bottom is not that black muck I encountered on the Wakulla River side.

I hope I can get back soon when Spring Break is not in full swing and get some fishing done. When it's back to its sleepy quiet little self.

Here's a link to a bike trip I took on the Tallahassee - St. Marks State Trail - HERE

Google Map

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LINKS

Current Georgia river levels: Real Time Georgia Streamflow

Solunar Tables for your zip code: HERE

Rigging your kayak: Captain Dick
Interactive map by Angling Technologies: HERE

FORUMS
Georgia Kayak Fishing
Georgia River Fishing
Jax Kayak Fishing
Gulf Coast Kayak Fishing (you might need to be registered to view this one)

FLY FISHING RESOURCES

DP Poppers
Fly Fishing West Georgia
Books and DVD by George Roberts:
Master the Cast
Fly Fisherman's Guide to Saltwater Naturals and Their Imitation

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Review - Back-up Paddles: Backwater Piranha vs Attwood Telescoping

2011-01-23T20:27:00.014-05:00

Click any picture to enlarge

So, some guy "invents" a ping-pong paddle for kayakers. Big deal . . .

That was my first impression when reading about Backwater Paddle Company's Predator and Piranha paddles. Although, I liked the concept of using a short one-handed back up paddle to maneuver the kayak while holding a rod in the other hand, I just wasn't impressed. Ed Halm did not create his paddles primarily for back up but they certainly will serve in that capacity and more.

Predator

Photo from Backwater Paddle Company

Piranha

Photo from Backwater Paddle Company

We've all done it.

Used the paddle to push hard off an object, the paddle slips and we're then trying to keep from falling over. Thank goodness fishing kayaks are by and large relatively stable platforms.

Or wind/current moving the kayak around while we're trying to place that bait or fight that fish, we end up using that long ol' two ended kayak paddle one handed trying to maneuver to just the right position. I had even thought of ditching the long paddle and using a regular canoe paddle for my kayak so when I encountered this situation I wouldn't be trying to manhandle that long kayak paddle. Of course, that means more water dripping in the 'yak as the paddle crosses over, hence a wetter ride.

Which of these paddles would you like to handle using only one hand?

But, hey, seems I saw a solution at Wal-Mart . Yep! The Attwood Telescoping Paddle for $15.

Cheaper, nice bright orange. Looks like it was made primarily for back up since it collapses into virtually a hand paddle and extends to a short canoe type paddle. They even make a slightly longer version. Good concept. I was happy . . . sorta.

Attwood extended

The telescoping feature was both a positive and negative feature. I kept having issues with the shaft pivoting even though it has a locking feature resulting in the T-handle being out of line with the paddle as seen below.

Sometimes when I picked it up the handle would extend even though I thought I had locked it in place. Problems easily dealt with but aggravating nonetheless.

Then, Backwater had a sale, I thought what the heck and I ended up with a Piranha in my 'yak.

Sometimes simpler is just better. No moving parts, it floats and has some unique features that are actually useful.

Photo from Backwater Paddle Company

You'll notice the Piranha has two features not found on other paddles. A notch and "teeth". The notch comes in handy snagging branches, lily pads and even your fishing line as that fish keeps pulling away just as you reach out to grab it. The teeth provide traction as you push away from rocks, logs, etc, to help keep the paddle from slipping causing you to lose balance. It, also, has a longer handle than their Predator model because it is designed to be used with a sit-on-top (SOT) kayak (higher center of gravity) rather than a sit-in-kayak (SINK) in which the paddler is closer to the water.

A security lanyard is supplied but if I'm holding it and need both hands, instead of letting it hang off my wrist from the lanyard, I just drop it in the kayak or even the water since it floats. Looping the lanyard around rigging on the kayak, one can use the notch to catch a lily pad and hold one fairly immovable in a wind if you don't want to deploy an anchor or pole.

So. Either will work but my preference is Backwater's Piranha. No moving parts, unique design with features one will actually use and less aggravation.

Kayaker's ping-pong paddle? Just more stuff to clutter a kayaker's already limited space? Nope! A very useful addition to my kayak equipment and something I actually use.

Ed Halm, BackWater Paddles owner, is a retired US Naval survival instructor who conducts eco-tours in central Florida. He's an active paddler who saw a problem and set about solving it.

And there's more coming from Backwater, too. Recently, presented on their FaceBook page is the next Piranha on steroids.

Photo from Backwater Paddle Company

Don't know what the final name will be but looks pretty cool. I'm concerned about the size but the only way to know will be to actually try one when they become available. Probably do great on one of those hybrids that have a even hight seat than an SOT. Those teeth look pretty serious. I could see using them against a gator's snout if one got too close. Hmmm . . . a tactical Piranha! Will it come in ninja black, bayonet mount, MOLLE straps!?! (:-D

Just thought of another use. That short paddle would come in handy flicking a pesky snake out of the kayak should one fall or crawl in.

There's even more with full size canoe and kayak paddles with Backwater's unique features.

You can check them out at BackwaterPaddles.com .

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LINKS:

Current Georgia river levels: Real Time Georgia Streamflow

Solunar Tables for your zip code: HERE

Rigging your kayak: Captain Dick
Interactive map by Angling Technologies: HERE

FORUMS
Georgia Kayak Fishing
Georgia River Fishing
Jax Kayak Fishing
Gulf Coast Kayak Fishing (you might need to be registered to view this one)

FLY FISHING RESOURCES

DP Poppers
Fly Fishing West Georgia
Books and DVD by George Roberts:
Master the Cast
Fly Fisherman's Guide to Saltwater Naturals and Their Imitation

Little River launch at GA 122 Lowndes/Brooks County line

2011-01-22T01:13:00.004-05:00

This launch site is located approximately 5 miles west of Hahira (Exit 29 on I-75). The Little River flows south from Reed Bingham State Park near Adel providing the boundary between Lowndes and Brooks Counties. It eventually loses its name as it joins the Withlacoochee River just west of I-75 at Exit 18.

A very easy launch site at this water level. Although I had to drag the kayak about 30-40 yards due to some deep sand near water's edge.

The state maintains a water level gage at this bridge which can be seen HERE. On this day the water level was just above 4 feet. North of the bridge the river is very shallow and the river much wider.

In fact, at times I found it easier to just get out and pull the kayak. Glad i had my waders on.

Here's a video of the flow.

North and south of the bridge the river has many sand bars which can be used as stopping/fishing points.

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LINKS:

Current Georgia river levels: Real Time Georgia Streamflow

Solunar Tables for your zip code: HERE

Rigging your kayak: Captain Dick
Interactive map by Angling Technologies: HERE

FORUMS
Georgia Kayak Fishing
Georgia River Fishing
Jax Kayak Fishing
Gulf Coast Kayak Fishing (you might need to be registered to view this one)

FLY FISHING RESOURCES

DP Poppers
Fly Fishing West Georgia
Books and DVD by George Roberts:
Master the Cast
Fly Fisherman's Guide to Saltwater Naturals and Their Imitation

Little Ocmulgee State Park - Spring fishing only

2010-09-20T19:34:00.012-04:00

Click any image to enlarge

Located just outside McRae, GA, Little Ocmulgee State Park is just under 60 miles due east of Cordele and about 35 miles south of Dublin. Head northeast out of McRae on 280 about a mile and turn north on 319. The entrance is across from the Telfair-Wheeler Airport.

View Larger Map

Pro Shop

I visited hoping to get in some fly fishing. However, that was not to be. Looks like a great place to golf, but fishing . . . it's an April through May lake. I'll explain.

As you can see above the entire 265 acre lake is overgrown with weeds except for some small canoe trails. I suppose that one could fish those trails but that's about it. I talked with Sim Davidson, the park manager, and until the state provides funds for dredging the weeds will remain a problem. Currently, the depth averages only around 4 1/2 feet.

He has used a partial solution the last couple of years. The lake will be drained in the Fall to knock back the weeds . In the Spring it will be restocked naturally as drainage from Gum Swamp refills the lake. As a result the lake can be fished as early as April. However, by June the weeds begin to interfere with full access to the lake, again.

The park as a whole is well developed with an 18 hole golf course,10 cottages, 60 lodge rooms, 54 campsites, picnic and group shelters, a pioneer camp, visitor center and restaurant.

Here are more pictures. I apologize for not getting pictures of the golf course. I like golf a lot, though . . . keeps people off my fishing spots!

Visitors Center and Trading Post

The Dam

Cottage

Lodge and Restaurant

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LINKS:

Current Georgia river levels: Real Time Georgia Streamflow

Solunar Tables for your zip code: HERE

Rigging your kayak: Captain Dick
Interactive map by Angling Technologies: HERE

FORUMS
Georgia Kayak Fishing
Georgia River Fishing
Jax Kayak Fishing
Gulf Coast Kayak Fishing (you might need to be registered to view this one)

FLY FISHING RESOURCES

DP Poppers
Fly Fishing West Georgia
Books and DVD by George Roberts:
Master the Cast
Fly Fisherman's Guide to Saltwater Naturals and Their Imitation

Tenkara - First little fishy!

2010-07-15T21:30:00.017-04:00

TENKARA - The traditional Japanese method of fly-fishing using only a rod, line and fly - no reel! Originated and perfected over centuries in the mountain-streams of Japan and some say it is the ideal method of fly-fishing small streams.

Tenkara is about fly-fishing simplicity. Eliminating unnecessary complexities to let you enjoy the fly-fishing experience. Instead of gear, you're free to focus on your casting and fishing techniques. The ultra-light and portable gear is great for backpacking, 11-13 foot rods collapse down to 20 inches and the long rods allow you to effectively fish challenging waters. - from TenkaraUSA

Earlier this year George found out about the Tenkara rod and had to try it. We took it out to a private pond that had recently been stocked which meant that the fish were pretty small. George managed to pick up a couple of bream and a bass then let me have a try.

This was my first fish on the Tenkara but George probably caught the first fish on a Tenkara rod in South Georgia.

Cool!

Since this little trip George has fished the Tenkara even more.
So how does it cast?
It is not a Bream Buster with a fly line! Even though I tended to treat it like one. George had to remind me to cast it like a fly rod, which it is.
George has had more experience with it since. Here's his take:

"With my 13-foot Ayu rod and the Tenkara USA line, it doesn't really feel to me as if the line is loading the rod. It feels as if the rod is loading under its own weight, and the furled line gets taken along on the unload. However, I bought some lines from a guy in Illinois at StreamSideLeaders.

These lines--particularly his Hi-Viz Yellow--were made from a heavier material. The yellow line was noticeably heavier, and it did load the rod. I e-mailed the guy and commented on this. He told me he used a heavier material for his yellow lines than for his other tenkara lines, but he could use a lighter material if I preferred.

The guy on the Tenkara Bum website suggests that when fishing dry flies, you fish the lightest line that will deliver the fly. I guess this is for stealth. However, because your line is not supposed to touch the water anyway--only the tippet is supposed to be on the water--I'm not sure what difference it makes how heavy the line actually is. I have some difficulty turning over a large, bushy dry fly (hoppers, big Stimulators) with the Tenkara USA lines. I'm thinking I'll be able to turn them over much better with my yellow line. But I haven't had the time to play with it sufficiently.

As far as wind goes, I have had some trouble casting and handling the very light Tenkara USA lines. Whenever I have to cast a conventional fly rod in truly windy conditions, I always choose a heavier outfit rather than a lighter one. Fishing for striped bass in the wind, I'll go with a 10-weight over an 8-weight. I'm convinced the heavier line helps me cut better through the wind--the way you might choose a .30-'06 over a .308 if you had to make a long shot in the wind.

With tenkara fishing you get the double whammy. Your line is completely off the water during the float. Any wind that's blowing is going to blow the line. It will move your fly in a way that you don't want, and will blow a bow in the line and cause you to lose contact with a wet fly. Apparently the Japanese don't fish wet flies quartering downstream, with the fly line lying on the water. That's the traditional American way to fish a wet fly, and I haven't given it up. It's too effective, and when the wind is blowing a gale--the way the corridor of a large river tends to become a wind tunnel--it's just about the only way you can fish.

The one thing I don't want to do is overthink or overcomplicate this game. Minimalism and simplicity were the first things that appealed to me about Tenkara, and I don't want to ruin that. If you look on the Tenkara USA forum, you'll see plenty of people who are already trying to overcomplicate it. Tenkara has allowed my fishing to come full circle. I'm now tying flies that look much like the first flies I tied as a child. And I'm thrilled when I catch a tiny bream--we always called them sunfish--on my bare-bones outfit."

So there you go. I imagine I'm going to end buying one of these. Then I'll probably find I need another in a different length/action for different situations. You know how it is.

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LINKS:

Current Georgia river levels: Real Time Georgia Streamflow
Solunar Tables for your zip code: HERE
Rigging your kayak: Captain Dick
Interactive map by Angling Technologies: HERE
FORUMS
Georgia Kayak Fishing
Georgia River Fishing
Jax Kayak Fishing
Gulf Coast Kayak Fishing (you might need to be registered to view this one)

FLY FISHING RESOURCES
DP Poppers
Fly Fishing West Georgia
Books and DVD by George Roberts:
Master the Cast
Fly Fisherman's Guide to Saltwater Naturals and Their Imitation
Saltwater Casting - 10 Steps to Distance and Power (DVD)

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If you are a resident of Georgia and like to fish from a kayak I recommend becoming a supporting member of the Georgia Kayak Fishing Association located at GeorgiaKayakFishing.com.

Wacissa River and Springs

2010-06-18T23:23:00.050-04:00

The Wacissa River is created by the output of the Wakulla Springs Group located within the first 2 miles of its course creating a very clear flow. If you'll click on the map below you can enlarge it and easily see the spring locations and other features discussed in this blog.

Click any image to enlarge

Map image obtained from FloridaSprings.info

This beautiful river is marred by its public boat landing as there have been instances of theft from automobiles. My suggestion is to contact Corky Williams at WacissaRiverCanoeRentals.com and ask if you can park at his facility. Much more secure than the public landing.

. . . and you get a carpeted kayak launch!

TRIP ONE:
I found this gem of a river on a late afternoon effort to try and make it to the Wakulla River at US 98 with enough time to 'yak and fish. I realized I would be going through Tallahassee right at 5 PM. Not good, so I got out my Delorme Florida Atlas and found the Wacissa closer and easier.

On my first trip here I wasn't aware of Corky's place. I arrived at the public boat landing to find several teenagers and some young adults with their children enjoying the clear cold water.

There was a large thunder storm rolling over the area so I had to wait about 45 minutes for that to resolve before I put in.

From the landing I paddled north to Horsehead Spring at the very start of the river. Here the river is narrow, 10 to 25+ yards, with lots of eel grass and a gentle flow which made it easy to paddle upstream.

As you can see below, Horsehead Spring is pretty small but this is where it all starts for the Wacissa. It's right there in the water clearing.

The main river is well attended by other boaters. Anything from jet skies, outboards and ski boats to air boats.

These skiers were off the water by the time I started after the thunder storm. All the other boaters I encountered were courteous and slowed down as they passed. Even the one air boat that passed by me.

Fishing I used a popper made by Steve Davenport at DP Poppers with my 6wt fly rod. It was already late in the afternoon and the bream were hungry for Dave's popper. In about 20 minutes I caught 5. The first was pretty small.

But they got a bit bigger.

Fishing in the clear water and seeing the fish fight is great fun!

I'm convinced that river fish fight harder than their lazy lake and pond cousins who don't routinely swim in a current.

As I got ready to head in a nice little fog settled over the river.

TRIP TWO:
My second trip to the Wacissa a couple of days later turned into something of an adventure with very little fishing.

My goal was to make it down to the Big Blue Hole and fish on the way back upstream. However, as I was heading downstream I began to hear thunder behind me. Looking back I could see some ominous clouds. I picked up my pace so I could make the big spring and return before the storm hit.

Wrong decision!

After making the Big Blue Hole and heading back this is what lay ahead.

And as I got closer

I realized I wasn't going to make it and getting off the water was not an option as there are no banks on the Wacissa, just swamp.

The lightning was frequent and getting closer. Due to aquatic plant growth I was forced at times to be away from the edge of the river and very exposed out on the water (with my graphite paddle!).

I saw an entrance to a small stream called the Little River which allowed me to greatly reduce my exposure. I went up as far as Malloy Landing and sat it out in my little plastic boat.

It got very dark. Rain began coming down in sheets. The lightning became much more frequent and was popping 360 degrees around me with almost no time lapse between lightning and thunder. I'd never heard thunder this loud. I was . . . uh . . . very impressed!

This is a picture I took during the storm.

You can't see much because the rain reflected so much of the flash but you can appreciate how dark it got.

Finally, the storm passed and blue skies appeared overhead. It was a great feeling making that phone call to my wife letting her know I was off the water, in my truck and headed home.

This is a really fun river to fish and one of the benefits of living close to North Florida.

Next, the Wakulla!

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LINKS:

Current Georgia river levels: Real Time Georgia Streamflow
Solunar Tables for your zip code: HERE
Rigging your kayak: Captain Dick
Interactive map by Angling Technologies: HERE
FORUMS
Georgia Kayak Fishing
Georgia River Fishing
Jax Kayak Fishing
Gulf Coast Kayak Fishing (you might need to be registered to view this one)

FLY FISHING RESOURCES
DP Poppers
Fly Fishing West Georgia
Books and DVD by George Roberts:
Master the Cast
Fly Fisherman's Guide to Saltwater Naturals and Their Imitation
Saltwater Casting - 10 Steps to Distance and Power (DVD)

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If you are a resident of Georgia and like to fish from a kayak I recommend becoming a supporting member of the Georgia Kayak Fishing Association located at GeorgiaKayakFishing.com.

Columbus - Lake Harding - Georgia Kayak Fishing Tournament

2010-04-03T15:04:00.153-04:00

GEORGIA KAYAK FISHING TOURNAMENT - LAKE HARDING
March 12-13, 2010

I was fortunate enough to have time to help with this tournament just north of Columbus, GA as a volunteer. Great fun and what a day!

Temps were supposed to get into the low 60's with clearing skies. Ha! Never got out of the high 40's or very low 50's with wind and some rain thrown in for awhile. Water like chocolate milk because of the recent rains. Just not one of those days one would pick to go fishing.

And, yet, fish they did! Over fifty participants really sucked it up and had a great day. The first place winner, who had to borrow a kayak to compete, won a brand spanking new Ocean Kayak Trident 13 complete with a new Hummin Bird fishfinder, personal floatation device, Capt. Dick's stake out pole and anchor trolley system. Over $2000 worth of goodies!

Plus there were two other kayaks given away. One to a best fish military member and another to a junior fisherman. Then there were the raffle prizes. Great fun!

Here's where it starts. The headquarters for the Captain's Meeting on Friday night before the Saturday tournament.

(Click on any image to enlarge)

Sam and Tony prepare the Captains' Bags.

And there were a lot of'em!

Sitting off the to side was the First Place Prize . . . just waiting.

Did I mention it was cold Saturday morning . . . well, all day actually.

But Saturday the fishing began after a shotgun start attended and filmed by Cefus of the Nuts and Bolts of Fishing and Boating show!

After the start the kayakers began heading out in hopes of hitting the jackpot!

Miscellaneous pictures from the event:

If you missed the BBQ sandwiches from Country's Barbeque (free to the participants), well, you just flat missed out. These were outstanding!!

Randy (River Pirate) gets some fly casting tips from the TFO guy. This is one of the other great benefits of participating. Getting advice from pros and savvy amateurs regarding all kinds of stuff relating to fishing and kayaks.

Stan from Capt. Dick's helps a participant with some rigging details.

The "Sultan of Slime" holds forth regarding fish catching with his secret formula (which you can buy). He had the fish to back up his words, too!

. . . and more pix.

Some of the kayak winners.

All in all a great time!

For information on the remaining Georgia Kayak Fishing Tournaments click HERE

Nuts and Bolts of Fishing and Boating put together a really neat video HERE

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LINKS:

Current Georgia river levels: Real Time Georgia StreamflowSolunar Tables for your zip code: HERERigging your kayak: Captain Dick
Interactive map by Angling Technologies: HEREFORUMS
Georgia Kayak Fishing
Georgia River Fishing
Jax Kayak Fishing
Gulf Coast Kayak Fishing (you might need to be registered to view this one)

FLY FISHING RESOURCES
Fly Fishing West Georgia
Books and DVD by George Roberts:
Master the Cast
Fly Fisherman's Guide to Saltwater Naturals and Their ImitationSaltwater Casting - 10 Steps to Distance and Power (DVD)

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If you are a resident of Georgia and like to fish from a kayak I recommend becoming a supporting member of the Georgia Kayak Fishing Association located at GeorgiaKayakFishing.com.

Flat Creek State Park - Perry, GA

2010-01-21T08:51:00.070-05:00

Location: Just south of Perry. Take I-75 Exit 134 (South Perry Parkway) the exit on the south end of the Georgia State Fairgrounds. Go west to the first red light and turn south (left) on US 41. Travel 2 miles south and the state park will be on your left. It lies between I-75 and US 41.

Fees: Free entrance

License: Anglers 16 years and older must possess a Georgia Fishing License and a Wildlife Management Area stamp (can be purchased on line). Exceptions: WMA stamp is not required for holders of a one day license, honorary license, lifetime license or sportsman's license.

Open Days and Times: 365 days a year sunrise to sunset.

Restrictions: Limited to two poles. Any outboard motor may be used at idle speed. NO LIVE MINNOWS ALLOWED! No swimming or wading. Dogs on a leash near water (alligators).

Fish Limits: Bream or Sunfish - 15; Channel Catfish - 5; Largemouth Bass - 5 with a length limit of 14"'.

Maps: There is a very good map at the Info Kiosk. It shows the bottom contours in 5' isobaths. When developing the lake they constructed rock piles which are listed with their lats/longs making them easy to find with a GPS. These maps are available as printouts at the kiosk. Not sure how well it is kept stocked. If there are no printouts available you can write down the info from the large map on the kiosk wall.

I was able to drive up to Flat Creek on an absolutely beautiful day. Temp in the mid 60's and a clear blue sky. From Valdosta I was there at the gate in about an hour and 45 minutes even with all the construction on I-75.I decided to use my "go to" pond boat the Trident 11 especially since it has a sonar installed and I could check depths.

When completely full the water will cover approximately 108 acres and will eventually be part of a state park encompassing over 800 acres. There are also fields being developed for dove hunting.

The map I memtioned above shows a maximum water depth of 20 feet when the "full pool level" reaches 337' above mean sea level. The deepest I found was a bit over 15' so it may not be quite up as high as it will eventually.

When you first come in you will see an Info Koisk, clean bathrooms and a large parking area.

The boat ramp will be over to your right after you pass the kiosk. There is a sign stating that "No Fishing on Boat Dock" beside ramp. However, it's a great place to fish and people were fishing there when I arrived.

I was a bit disappointed that there were no covered eating areas. I counted a total of four wooden picnic tables two of which were located close together in some trees.

Although there were no covered eating areas there was a covered area for cleaning fish! Never seen one of these.

And an automated fish gut dispenser! It will be interesting to try this out. Click the image to enlarge and read the instructions.

Following are some miscellaneous pictures of Flat Creek and a video at the end viewing the lake from one end to the other.

This wide area might be a good area to launch kayaks. You'll need to carry it a bit from the parking area to the water. It'd be easier on the 'yaks bottom compared to the concrete boat ramp, for sure.

You'll notice one of the other picnic tables below the tree.

Time to get off the water. They should make it 30 minutes before sunrise and 30 minutes after sunset.

The video below will give you a panoramic view of the lake.

. . . and here's what Flat Creek looks like in the snow!

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LINKS:

Current Georgia river levels: Real Time Georgia Streamflow
Solunar Tables for your zip code: HERE
Rigging your kayak: Captain Dick
Interactive map by Angling Technologies: HERE

FORUMS
Georgia Kayak Fishing
Georgia River Fishing
Jax Kayak Fishing
Gulf Coast Kayak Fishing (you might need to be registered to view this one)

FLY FISHING RESOURCES
Fly Fishing West Georgia
Books and DVD by George Roberts:
Master the Cast
Fly Fisherman's Guide to Saltwater Naturals and Their Imitation
Saltwater Casting - 10 Steps to Distance and Power (DVD)

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If you are a resident of Georgia and like to fish from a kayak I recommend becoming a supporting member of the Georgia Kayak Fishing Association located at GeorgiaKayakFishing.com.

Jacksonville - St. John River - Pacetti's - Trout Creek

2010-01-09T16:02:00.023-05:00

WORK, WEATHER AND THE HOLIDAYS

. . . have kept me off the water so I'm posting a trip my brother and I took this past April. I originally posted the trip at JaxKayakFishing.Com so for some of you it may be redundant.

Northeast Florida is an easy drive from South Georgia. Looking at these pictures I want to go again . . . . soon.

PACETTI'S MARINA

Pacetti's Marina was started in 1929 by Joseph Pacetti as his personal hunting and fishing camp. He later developed it into a commercial enterprise. Today it is a combination fish camp, marina and RV park. In the picture below you can see the fish camp located along CR 13 and Trout Creek which empties into the St. John River (seen in the background upper left).

CLICK ON ANY PICTURE TO ENLARGE

Trout Creek is freshwater but because of its proximity to the St. John River it receives tidal flow so saltwater fish may also be caught. It was named after the large mouth bass that are abundant here. In the early 20th century bass were called freshwater trout.

There are two launch points here at the CR 13 bridge. Pacetti's is $2 and across the creek is a park where launching is free. We paid the $2 because the free launch site appeared steeper than I wanted to deal with. The picture below is Pacetti's and across the creek you can see the entrance to the free site in the upper left corner.

From this launch site we headed to the right and under the bridge toward the St. John.

In South Georgia we would call this a river. I guess compared to the St. John it's a creek.

In the above picture we're past the bridge and you can see the mouth of the creek on the horizon as it enters Palmo Cove which is part of the St. John.

And below progressing into the St. John out in Palmo Cove.

You can't tell it from the above picture but the swells were about a foot high. Enough to throw this little minnow into the cup holder of my Trident 13. He later became bait.

Since we were geared up with jigs and beetle spins for panfish we headed back. Here at the mouth is a sign making Trout Creek a "No Wake Zone" which makes it much better for kayaking compared to some of the other areas.

This area is beautiful and provides a great day on the water whether or not you catch fish.

This tree had been toppled exposing its root system. The height was well over our heads.

This dock had running water, sink and a cutting board for a great place to clean fish and relax. But I don't think we were welcome.

A small creek feeding Trout Creek. Fishy looking?

I had my head, arms and neck covered real well but I really wish I had put some sunscreen on my legs. I really paid for that mistake!

Well, at least my brother wasn't skunked. Only thing I caught was that minnow that was thrown in my cup holder while we were out in the St. John.

Interactive Map

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LINKS
Current Georgia river levels: Real Time Georgia Streamflow
Solunar Tables for your zip code: HERE
Rigging your kayak: Captain Dick
Interactive map by Angling Technologies: HERE

FORUMS
Georgia Kayak Fishing
Georgia River Fishing
Jax Kayak Fishing
Gulf Coast Kayak Fishing (you might need to be registered to view this one)

FLY FISHING RESOURCES
Fly Fishing West Georgia
Books and DVD by George Roberts:
Master the Cast
Fly Fisherman's Guide to Saltwater Naturals and Their Imitation
Saltwater Casting - 10 Steps to Distance and Power (DVD)

**********
If you are a resident of Georgia and like to fish from a kayak I recommend becoming a supporting member of the Georgia Kayak Fishing Association located at GeorgiaKayakFishing.com.