The Bonefish Flat

Stalking the Flats with Brian O'Keefe: Part 2

2012-02-07T20:54:00.000-05:00

If you missed part 1, click here.

O’Keefe on Bonefishing

Inspired by O’Keefe’s bonefish podcast, it was only fitting we talked extensively about flats fishing. One thing I admired was how he keeps simplicity at the fore- front. As I prepare for an upcoming bonefishing trip, I was curious how Brian gets ready for his trips. I asked about some of his favorite and essential gear.

Because Brian has extensive camera gear and some computer equipment, he has to pack smart on the fishing gear. He throws in a few extra hats and a good lightweight but tough waterproof jacket and some spare battery packs.

Check out this double.

With regard to hooks, he likes “a sharp one.” When asked his favorite rod and reel combo, he doesn’t really have one other than a fast action rod. He has never bought a very high-end reel, either. He does place a high value on his fly line and a finger protector.

Brian said he does tend to go overboard on bringing flies and once showed a box of 50 permit flies to his guide. He offered up some good tips, though, like trying the Avalon fly which he has used to good success. He also enjoys receiving a new fly now and again from a friend to try out on one of his adventures. Another tip is to tie up a few blind bonefish flies for the bones that get their backs up, literally, out of the water. “A fish in this type of water is almost impossible to catch without spooking, so you need a fly that lands without any plop.”

“So if you could pick one spot to fish, and had to pay for it yourself, where would you go,” I asked. “The Seychelles is one place that is on the bucket list, but living in Oregon it literally is the furthest place away from home.” He cited a huge variety of fish species, as well as a shot at monster bonefish. Cuba is another destination high on the list because of big bonefish and tarpon living on relatively untouched flats. He noted that Castro actually set up the Jardines de la Reina and only a limited number of rods are allowed to fish at a time. This means a lot of big, dumb fish in a beautifully protected environment which he saw first hand as he had a chance to dive some of the reefs.

For someone like me who writes a saltwater fly fishing blog, I couldn’t resist asking Brian his advice on how to break into the outdoor writing and photography business. He said traditional media is not that easy. With photography, it is really hard these days because there are so many people in it and a lot of seasoned professionals out there that publications rely on. He recommended, as I’ve heard before, combining writing and photography because it’s easier for an editor to go to one place to get what they need for a story.

With regard to writing, “just keep doing it. Write as much as you can. Try your local fly fishing newsletter.” He said a lot of guys get started doing regional or local fishing coverage. He thought outlets like blogs are a great way to get into the business because they let you practice and really work on the craft.

To wrap up, we talked about a memorable fish. Brain told the story of fishing in the Berry Islands with a guy who was really impatient and would get on the bow and just cast over and over again. “A real Type A busy body. Then, he wanted to try my rod.” Reluctantly, Brian agreed and the guy started casting wildly.

Later, it was O’Keefe’s turn on the bow and he hooked a monster bone that he thought was at least 31 inches. The fish would eventually break him off. After examining his leader, he noticed a series of wind knots that his “fishing buddy” had put in the leader.

O’Keefe also said one of his biggest bonefish was caught on Long Island, Bahamas. He was wading and wading a big area in the north of the island near a big blue hole when several big bonefish came along. His fly led the fish by 15 feet but the school just spooked. He then got the idea to set up a type of bonefish stakeout by returning the next day and semi-burying the fly in the sand. Sure enough, the same school came back, he gave the fly a twitch, and landed an 11-pound bonefish in a method that sounds to me like setting a bonefish landmine.

Having caught probably hundreds of species on the fly, I asked what his favorite fish to catch on fly is. “I have a deep respect for big bonefish,” he said. “Not to ignore casting to the smaller fish, like some people, but it is neat to pursue the big ones.” But true to form, as Brian and I kept talking he added, “But you know, mutton snapper are a really cool fish, and seeing tailing mutton snappers are pretty cool too. And you know, big barracuda. Really big barracuda, put up a spectacular fight with lot’s of aerial action too.”

Brian is the real deal and a truly great ambassador to our sport. I hope I get the chance to share a boat with him one day. Quite simply, the guy just loves to fish and it shows.

Stalking the Flats with Brian O'Keefe

2012-02-06T21:30:00.000-05:00

Several years ago I heard a podcast featuring Brian O’Keefe describing the different fishing opportunities in the Bahamas. From giant bonefish mistaken for cuda’s near Moore’s Island to countless numbers of fish in Andros, Brian painted a vivid picture of a bonefish nirvana. I already had a passion for fly fishing and my interest in flats fishing was just sparking. Brian’s depiction of the Bahamas was like pouring gasoline on this spark.

Fast forward to today and The Bonefish Flat has been up and running for almost three years. I’ve had a chance to interview some great personalities in saltwater fly fishing including Aaron Adams of the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust and Chris Peterson of Hells Bay Boatworks.

Last week I finally had a chance to talk fishing with Brian O’Keefe. For those of you who don’t know Brian, he is half of Catch Magazine and oversees the content. In addition to Catch, Brian is an amazing photographer who has fly fished the world and taken some spectacular pictures along the way. Whether you know it or not, you have doubtless seen his work in your favorite fly fishing magazine.

It will come as no surprise that when I talked to Brian, he was getting ready to head off on a trip to Mexico where bonefish, tarpon, permit, and snook were on the agenda.

Brian O'Keefe on The Bonefish Flat

Catch Magazine

Catch Magazine is a bi-monthly online magazine devoted to fly fishing photography. “The grand vision for Catch,” Brian said, “is keeping up with current technology by continuing to evolve the magazine. This means making sure Catch can run on things like your iPhone, iPad, Kindle Fire, etc and integrating with social media like Facebook and Twitter. Not to mention making sure Catch will run on older computer systems. Catch is seen in 148 countries and over 11,000 cities. This means that the technology has to be compatible with all kinds of different technologies, and that’s a lot to keep up with.”

You might know that Catch is going to switch over to a subscription service. “I talked to hundreds of people all over the world to get a feel for what a fair price point would be. I settled on $12 per year, just $2 per issue,” Brian said. We discussed the changing attitudes toward paying for online content. While many of us expect online content to be free, you now see a growing number of Web sites charging a subscription fee. The New York Times and the Wall Street Journal come to mind. O’Keefe agreed stating that he and his partner, Todd Moen, spend a huge amount of time putting Catch together and without some sort of compensation, keeping Catch going would be in difficult if not impossible.

I asked Brian whether there are any up and coming photographers we should keep an eye out for. “There are too many to mention,” he said. “I look at Catch in simple terms. Today everyone shares photographs online or with their mobile device. Catch is that to an extreme. People who submit pictures to Catch are travelers, guides, and other professionals who are just into the technology behind the cameras. With Catch Magazine, we see great photos coming in all the time. In fact, we have content already lined up for the next five issues. Because everyone has a camera, and oftentimes are getting a good result, contributors are in the hundreds of people. It’s the no-names I like the best without a lot of pomp and circumstance.”

When asked if he had a favorite photograph from Catch, Brian didn’t hesitate, “The permit from episode one. I get accused of “altering” it, which of course means photoshop. But I took that picture using 35 mm film, and there was no altering going on. The conditions were just right to provide the natural colors and effects,” he said.

Stay tuned tomorrow for part 2 as we talk about all things bonefishing.

Podcast on Orvis News with Brian O'Keefe

2012-02-01T21:33:00.000-05:00

There is a great podcast up on Orvis News featuring Brian O'Keefe talking to Tom Rosenbauer about how to take better pictures. In a way, Brian is partly responsible for this Web site. Several years ago he was on an Ask About Fly Fishing Podcast discussing bonefish in the Bahamas. Listening to him describe bonefishing was like pouring gas on the flats fishing fire and really helped to get me hooked on bonefishing in the Bahamas.

Brian O'Keefe with a Bonefish

Brian puts together Catch online magazine and it is my favorite online magazine. The photo's are the best fly fishing photos you will see and I always look forward to the new editions.

Join Bonefish & Tarpon Trust: Win Free Swag

2012-01-31T21:48:00.000-05:00

For fun last week I gave The Bonefish Flat state of the union, but the real truth is that we need to know more about the real state of the bonefish, tarpon, permit and all the other fish that swim the flats.

If you caught my interview with Dr. Aaron Adams a few months back, you know that much more work needs to be done to research these great fish.

That's why it's important to join the Bonefish and Tarpon Trust. You'll help fund critical bonefish, tarpon, and permit research to help us learn more so we can protect these fish. To sweeten the deal, BTT is offering a free monthly give away. This month it's from Howler Brothers.

Join BTT

Now, you can join at the $50 level and get cool prizes including a chance to win a grand prize of a 3 day trip to the Ascension Bay Bonefish Club. Renew or join at the $100 level and get a chance for a 6 day 7 night adventure to Pesca Maya Bonefish Lodge.

I was looking through some old pictures last night and thought it would be a shame if my daughter and son never had a chance to catch a bonefish. Let's join BTT and make sure the fish of the flats are around for the next generation.

The Passport

2012-01-30T22:26:00.000-05:00

One of the things I needed to do in preparation of my upcoming trip was to get my passport renewed. Every 10 years, whether it needs or not, it's time to renew. It's fun to look back at the places you've been, and dream about the places you'll go.

I've had some fun adventures in my last passport, with stamps from Australia, France, the Netherlands, the Bahamas, Iceland, New Zealand and England. Some were for fly fishing, but most were just me getting out to see the world. And hopefully I'm just getting started. There's lots to see and many fish to catch.

Out with the old, in with the new.

Now, I've got a clean slate. A new book to fill and new adventures to be had.

I'm gearing up for a trip to Long Island, Bahamas and will start putting together a travel series to update everyone on how I get ready for a trip. Until then, check your passport and make sure it's up-to-date. You never know when the Bonefish Flat's will be calling!!

State of the Bonefish Union

2012-01-24T22:24:00.000-05:00

I thought it might be good, coming to you from the nation's Capitol, to give the state of The Bonefish Flat.

The state of the flat is good my friends. I have two trips planned for the first half of this year. It looks like I'm headed to Long Island, Bahamas in March. This will be my first trip to the Out Islands and I'm really looking forward to the experience. Part of the fun of any trip is the preparation, and I'm in the process of updating my flybox a bit now. If you have a killer pattern for Long Island, email me and let me know and I'll tie it up.

These are my three bonefish fly boxes.

Da Gotcha's, Mon.

My general bonefishing flies. Charlies, puffs, etc.

I may do another bonefish travel series to show how I prepare for this trip. You might have seen my travel check list the other day which I have under a new tab here. I will need to pack lighter but at the same time take everything I need for a week's worth of fishing.

In July, I'm looking to head toward the keys and land a late season tarpon. More on that trip to come.

Finally, I still need to land that redfish from 2011, so I'll be looking to sneak that in during the second half of the year.

The Bonefish Flat is headed in the right direction. We are going to tie more flies, catch more fish, and spend more time on the water. Thanks for reading, and may God Bless America!!

Bonefish Flat Updates

2012-01-19T21:38:00.000-05:00

A couple of quick updates for the Bonefish Flat. First, I just hit 100 likes on Facebook so thanks very much for following the site on the old Facebook. I've got some new things planned for this year and so the site has lots to look forward to.

I've also added two pages to the blog that you will see at the top. The first is a tab which contains trip reports. Hopefully we will add a few to that one this year!!

Here's a bone I caught a few years back with Capt. Bully.

The second tab I added is my gear checklist that I use for trips. I'm always interested in knowing what other gear anglers are using so I thought I would share what I take along when on a trip. If you have any feedback, please leave it or feel free to write me at bonefishflat@gmail.com. I'm always looking for ways to improve the site.

DIY Flats Fishing

2012-01-17T07:23:00.000-05:00

I've had a chance to check out a new Web site on Do-It-Yourself flyfishing called DIY Flats Fishing. It's a great site that has a lot of good information about DIY locations in the Bahamas. It also has some great travel checklists out there to get you ready for that next trip.

Flats fishing is a tough game, and DIY on the flats is tough. I always recommend going out with a guide the first time or two to get your fish eye's going and to help you tune-in your game. BUT... many folks want to go out on their own and this site will get you going.

Good luck and more on DIY flats fishing to come.

New Toys for the Skinny Water

2012-01-15T20:22:00.000-05:00

Really excited to try out my new Cliff Bugger Box Jr. and my new Rio Bonefish Fly Line. I've noticed you see a lot of guides using the bugger box. Everyone from the guys on drift boats to Florida Keys guides seem to be using these things. I can't wait to load it up with some Bonefish and Tarpon flies.

The Cliff Bugger and the Rio Bonefish line in the Bonefish Flat HQ.

I'm also switching over from the SA Mastery Bonefish line to the Rio Bonefish line. Why? It's just time to try something different. SA seems to be headed in the direction of the textured line and I hear mixed reviews on that line. I haven't tried it out yet so I can't say for sure. I like the color and look of Rio and what they've put together.

More to come on the new line.

Chesapeake Bay Rockin' and Rolling

2012-01-10T22:37:00.000-05:00

So I mentioned in my last post that I had a chance to fish the Chesapeake Bay over Christmas.

Man, the Bay can get rough. I usually climb up on the bow and use the fly rod. Try double hauling in this!!

Buccaneers and Bones or "Hey, I know that Guide"

2012-01-08T21:24:00.000-05:00

So I'm watching the second episode of Buccaneers and Bones and the guide fishing with Tom Brokaw and Bill Klyn looks just like Capt. Perry Demeritte who I've fished with several times out of McLean Town on Grand Bahamas. My dad was watching the same episode and used the DVR to put him in slow motion and sure enough, written on his shirt was Capt. Perry. Glad to see he is still slaying bones in the Bahamas, I had noticed that his Web site now directs you to another outfitter.

Capt. Perry with a little bonefish, we were just getting started!!

Be sure to checkout out Buccaneers and Bones on the Outdoor Channel. It's as good as it has ever been and a great way to dream about the flats on a Saturday morning. And go get um Capt. Perry. The dude will put you on da fish.

2012: The Year of the Fish

2012-01-05T22:04:00.000-05:00

Well, 2011 has come and gone. I tried to spare everyone a recap and a "look forward" addition of the Bonefish Flat because I know that was the talk of the web right after the New Year. But alas, it's good for the soul to reflect on the year gone by and what lies ahead.

To put it simply, 2011 was not real fishy. Seemed like mostly a lot of work. The Mrs. and I bought a new house and that seemed to take up most of the year. As a result, my yearly bonefishing trip got put off. You don't realize how much you miss bonefishing until you don't get to go (OK, maybe you do. Maybe we think about it all the time, but that's one for another blog post).

You might remember that I declared 2011 the year of the redfish. Unfortunately, I never got my redfish to hand but that will change. Maybe even this year. My one trip was to the outer banks of North Carolina and apparently there are no redfish there. There may be no fish there, at least none that were eating my flies. I had a good time nonetheless hanging out and spending time with my dad.

Should be Red's in there, right? Wrong.

Pops and I at the OBX.

I did spend some time around the holidays and got into some trout fishing and some fishing the Chesapeake Bay. I managed to land a Thanksgiving trout on the famous Gunpowder River of Maryland, and that was a good thing. The bay "was angry that day, my friend" and we didn't land any fish. But it's always good to get out on the water.

The target ship in the bay.

So what does 2012 have in store for the Bonefish Flat? I have a trip planned to the Keys for Tarpon and whatever else is biting down there. So am I ready to declare 2012 the year of the Tarpon? That didn't work so well with the redfish, so let's just all say that 2012 is the year of the fish, and let's all try to find our way out on the water for a few more trips and a few more trips. I'm also working on a special mystery trip that hopefully will come together soon, so be sure to stay tuned for more on that.

Other than that, I will try to put together another trip down south for redfish with my trusty old kayak. That might have to wait until later in the year.

Pic of the Week

2011-12-05T10:14:00.000-05:00

Not salty, but yonder there are the Blue Ridge Mountains behind those barns. Some brookies in dem dere hills.

Thanksgiving Success on the Gunpowder River

2011-12-01T20:17:00.000-05:00

It's taken me a while to get around to posting from last week, but I had two great days out on the water. And no, I wasn't on the flats, but on the trout streams. I fished the famous Gunpowder River near Baltimore, Maryland. The Gunpowder is famous for NOT being kind to me. I was about ready to give up on it but the wife let me go up there on Thanksgiving morning before having dinner with some family.

I finally had some success.

A respectable Brown from the Gunpowder.

On Saturday, I had a chance to go out again on the South River which is in Greene County, Virginia, near my home town of Culpeper. This is a stocked trout stream that is a "put and take." I have had crap all luck with stocked streams, but for some reason I keep putting myself through the torture of trying to catch a trout on one of these streams. My luck on the South would prove no better this go around. Even though the stream had just been stocked four days before, I didn't see, or spook, a single trout.

I emailed one of my good friends, Tom Sadler who writes the blog Dispatches from the Middle River, and is an all around great fisherman, to get his take on trout streams. He made me feel a lot better confirming my thought that the "locals" tend to fish out and harvest the majority of these trout as soon as they leave the truck. Next time, maybe I'll just go for a hike instead.

Flip Pallot Joins Costa Pro Staff

2011-11-29T11:32:00.000-05:00

Well it's about time. My main man Flip has joined Costa Del Mar's current pro staff. If you are a regular reader of the Bonefish Flat, you know I'm a huge fan. The Walkers Cay Chronicles is a big reason I'm such an avid saltwater fly fisherman.

Flip won't be squintin' anymore with his new Costas.

Flip is a great fit for Costa joining such other pro staff members as Chico Fernandez and Jose Wejebe. He has a new show, Ford's Fishing Frontier which is on the Outdoor Channel. The new season starts in January.

Maybe Costa will come out with a style of shades called the "Flip."

The Christmas Most Wanted

2011-11-22T14:25:00.000-05:00

It's almost black Friday which means most of us should be out fishing the day after Thanksgiving. But instead, many of us will get dragged to the store to give the economy a much needed boost. While Oprah might have her "favorite things,"that's got nothing on the Bonefish Flat's Christmas most wanted list. If you're wondering what gear you need to ask for, or what your significant other who is a saltwater fly fishing nut like me wants, than be sure to check out my list below.

1. Scott S4S 8wt- You're probably saying, wasn't this on the list last year? Yep, it was, but I still don't have one. This is my favorite saltwater stick out there today. If you're a tarpon angler, try the 10 or 11 wt.

2. Hells Bay Biscayne- This is the gift that separates the men from the boys and will solve the age old question, have you been naughty or nice this year. The newest edition to the Hell's Bay lineup sends shivers up my spine. What a beautiful boat and one that will have you chasing permit and tarpon around the Florida Keys. Check back here on the Bonefish Flat on December 26 to see how good I've been this year and keep your fingers crossed. The kids would love this.

3.Costa 580s- If you don't have a pair of 580's yet, then I guarantee you there are fish out there you are missing. Plus, if you're fishing without them, than you probably don't look good. And who wants to get a great grip and grin shot of you and your bonefish with a pair of ugly shades. I recommend the Zane model in Green Mirrors.

4. Simms Tarpon/Hells Bay Long Sleeve- It's Simms, it's Hell's Bay, and its a fine looking shirt. Make mine an XL please!

5. Simms Rogue Fleece Hoody in Camo - This is one I really want. Why camo? Because they'll never see you coming.

6. Scott S4S Poster- If you're a young buck, put this up in your dorm room. If you're an old married guy, hang it above your bed. I'm sure that a tailing permit will turn on your significant other. Or you could just hang it in your man cave like I would do.

7. Simms Saltwater Cap- Gotta have something to cover your noggin in the scorching heat of the flats. This one has a poon on it, so you've got that going for you. I recommend the light grey color.

8. Buff Black Fly Edition- Vaughn Cochran's signature black fly turned into a Buff. Everyone seems to be wearing one of these things now and why not. You get to pretend you're a real live bandit.

9. Cliff Beast Junior- You've seen those really cool yellow fly boxes that the guides have on their boats. The ones chocked to the brim with beefy flies to help you catch your trophy bone. Why not get your own and tie some flies this winter. Order from the Uptown Angler in NOLA and tell them the Bonefish Flat sent you.

10. Connect on Blu Ray- Last but not least, you're going to need a new video to last you through the cold winter. Especially if you hung that Scott poster above your bed. The folks at Confluence films put together some of the best fly fishing action available and Connect is there new film.

11. Tapam the Movie: My friend Jan Bach Kristensen has put together an amazing film about fly fishing for tarpon from a float tube. Jan is an amazing photographer who has been featured in several publications including Fly Fishing in Saltwater. Be sure to pick up a copy of Tapam in Blu-Ray.

So there you have it. But as we head into the holiday season, let's try to remember the real reason for the season,count our blessings and try to get outdoors and do some fishing with our families.

Fried Green Tomatoes are Still better than Bananas

2011-10-17T10:41:00.001-04:00

So I'm not going to lie, the fishing has been slow this year. I got out for one good trip to the salt in which I got skunked, but still managed to have a good time. Earlier in the season I got out to the local ponds and caught some small bass and pan fish on fly, but they were pretty small and I seemed to lose interest pretty quickly. Catching bonefish does that to you with the little guys.

Each year my New Years resolution has been to fish more, and this year is not looking good. Me and the family built a house and that seems to be consuming most of my time, plus the kids are at the age where they can't quite go fishing but certainly don't want daddy to leave them behind.

This predicament should bolster my argument for a "family" boat (Hells Bay, makes a family boat, right? I believe it's called a Marquesa :)), but all I get are strange looks when I bring that up.

The good news is that my trip for next year is booked and it's going to be tarpon in the keys. It should be a blast as I haven't been to the keys in several years so it's time to head back.

Until then, here's a pic from the grill last night. What good southern boy doesn't fry up home grown green tomatoes.

Cool Tarpon Story

2011-10-03T08:49:00.001-04:00

Could it signal the end of times? Or could it just be coincidence? Whatever it is, imagine hundreds of tarpon leaping at once.You decide. Wish I could have seen this one.

Connect with Confluence

2011-09-08T21:22:00.000-04:00

Just got a clip of the new Confluence Film movie Connect. This thing is gonna be off the hook. Drift was the first film from Confluence and I really believe that this movie helped to change how we watch new school fly fishing films.

Here's a preview of the film.

The film is another collaboration between director/cinematographer Chris Patterson and executive producer Jim Klug and features several vignettes from different exotic locations around the world. One features Greg Vincent in Cuba and should satisfy your salty cravings.

Connect will debut October 7 in Bozeman, Montana at the Ellen Theater in a VIP event for retailers, media, guides, and outfitters. The rest of us get a shot to see it on October 8 and 9. Beginning November 4, 2011, it will be available for purchase for $29.95 on DVD and $39.95 on blu-ray at fly shops or online at Confluence.

Sponsors of Connect include Simms, Costa, Yellow Dog Fly Fishing, and Hatch Fly Reels.

Biscayne Bay Bonefishing

2011-09-06T08:39:00.001-04:00

Friend of The Bonefish Flat Captain Raul Montoro recently passed along a Miami Herald article about an epic day on the water.

If you want to book Captain Montoro for a day, check out his Web site

Hell's Bay Boatwork's: The Interview with Chris Peterson

2011-08-31T23:14:00.000-04:00

This is what writing The Bonefish Flat is all about for me. Today I had the privilege of interviewing Hell's Bay Boatwork's CEO Chris Peterson. If you know much about boats, and skiff's in particular, you know that Hell's Bay is the hottest skiff around. And after my conversation with Chris, it's no wonder why. I've followed Hell's Bay for a long time and love their boats, so this interview was really a highlight of writing this blog. Enjoy!

TBF: Before you bought Hell's Bay, it seemed the company was just hitting its stride. However, the company had slipped into bankruptcy and was having some issues. What attracted you to the brand and what did you determine to do differently to obviously turn the company around?

CP: In 2003 I was involved in other businesses and was diagnosed with Lymphoma cancer and the diagnosis was not good. It looked like I would be a short timer so I got out of the different businesses I was in and focused on treatment. Fortunately, the treatment worked and I ended up with a clean bill of health. I had worked in startups in the past and wanted to invest in a company that was already put together. I'm a 100 ton licensed captain and live in Orlando so, even though this is a 40 minute commute, it sounded like a good opportunity.

At the time, the company was headed toward bankruptcy and I tried to work something out then to come in, but it didn't work. Then I chased it into bankruptcy and bought it at auction. I had done my homework, so I knew what the issues with the company were. There was never a thing wrong with the boats, but there were some things at the top that could be fixed.

TBF: Flip Pallot and Tom Gordon were involved early and I’m assuming they left before the company ran into trouble. How did you convince these guys to come back?

CP: Flip was one of the original owners of the company, but several of the original owners couldn't agree on the direction, so they sold it. Flip still comes into the shop and gives out ideas on how to make improvements. He loves boats and how they are built. As for Tom, he worked his way up through the company and bought the mold for the 16 foot waterman and struck out on his own. When I bought the company, it made sense for him to come back to Hells Bay.

Part II: Boat Building

TBF: Tell me about the boat building process. How long does it take to build a Hells Bay skiff and how many do you produce a year?

CP: We have a staff of about 20 people. If we start a skiff and work straight through, it takes about three weeks. However, we have a big slate of orders so if you order a boat it will take about six weeks to build.

TBF: I was looking at some used boats online, and one thing that comes up is rebuilding a boats stringers, which I confess I had to look up. Hells Bay uses components that don’t rot, so is this something I would have to worry about on a Hells Bay boat?

CP: We don’t ever have to rebuild stringers. Everything is a composite so you never have to worry about a stringer rotting. Many boats still use wood, and a lot of it. If sealed properly, water won't get in. But once it does, the wood rots and you end up with a lot of trouble.

Part III: The Hells Bay Boat

TBF: For someone looking to buy a skiff, what sets Hells Bay boats apart from your competitors?

CP: Hell's Bay doesn't compromise on ANYTHING. We use the best available materials. You can always cheapen things up, but we never take short cuts by using cheaper materials or cutting corners. You won't see raw glass on a Hell's Bay, everything is sanded and finished. Places on the boat you will never see will get a good finish. This is a better way to build it, giving the owner another layer of protection. Yvon Choinard, owner of Patagonia, was once asked why he doesn't make a product you could buy at Wal-Mart. He responded, “Lots of people could build a cheaper product. We build it the best way we can and we never skimp on quality."

TBF: Tell me about the new Neptune and Biscayne fit into the picture and round-out your lineup.

CP: The Neptune is an 18 foot boat designed around a 150 HP engine. It's a fast, far reaching tournament boat. It flat flies. For it's size, it's also a great poling skiff. It has a12 degree deadrise and drafts 9-10 inches. The Biscayne is a 26 foot boat and it's not as wide or big. It is designed around a 70 HP fourstroke Yamaha. This boat is the ultimate permit boat for the lower keys. Very poleable and very maneuvarble. But the V-hull gives it stability and maneuvrabilty.

The Marquesa is a stable with a v hull. The Guide ride's well but is more polable and the Glades Skiff is an 18 foot boat that, with 2 anglers drafts 2-3 inches.

Part IV: Buying a skiff

TF: So for me, my plan/dream is a Marquesa. I have two kids that I want to get into fishing. I live in the mid Atlantic and want to fish the Chesapeake Bay, pole the Potomac for carp, bass fish in some of Virginia, Stripers on the Susquehannah River, and trailer down to Virginia Beach and North Carolina for redfish and False Albacore. However, I don’t see a lot of skiffs around here. Am I crazy or ahead of my time!!

CP: Absolutely, I've fished the Bay many times and it has a close and sharp chop, but not huge waves. The Marquesa is a great boat for these conditions and is perfect for kids.

TBF: Who is the average Hells Bay customer?

CP: There is no sterotype. But anyone who buys a Hells Bay skiff is very passionate about shallow water fishing. In fact, anyone who is a true enthusiast will eventually ends up in out boat. You won't find someone who is looking to stick their toe in the water, who also plays a lot of golf or who does other sports. You will find the enthusiastic outdoorsmen who knows that equipment is important in a Hells Bay.

Part V: Hells Bay Odd’s and Ends

TBF: Flip Pallot is one of my hero’s in saltwater fly fishing. What’s it like to be able to work with Flip and some of the other greats like Chico Fernandez and Andy Mill?

CP: Everyone who is on our pro staff is a true gentleman. Each has a different flavor. Each is a genuine person and not a celebrity. Flip underestimates his own star power. Deep down, he is just a great guy to fish and hunt with. He's a true outdoorsman. He’s got a thousand stories and is happy to share his knowledge with you.

One funny story about Flip is that he still believes guava forks are the best forks for push poles so he will go out and fit his push pole with a hand made fork. He's a great guy and great gentleman.

TBF: Along these lines, what Hells Bay Skiff does Flip fish?

CP: Flip fishes the Glades skiff. He likes the tiller steering and doesn't like to fly on the water. Flip is an observer and he likes to take in the scenery. What you see in the shows is what you get. Chico is the same way. Flip and Chico are good friends. They are both such great guys, but they're like the odd couple. Their personalities are very different. Flip likes country music, Chico is a Jazz officinado.

TBF: You hear of people who merge hobbies with professions and they get no time to actually do what they love. So how often do you actually get to get out on the water and where do you like to fish?

CP: More than I should!! I have the luxury of calling it R&D. (Doesn't that kill you guys)

TBF: Do you have a model that you frequently use and what fish species do you usually go after?

CP: When it comes to boats, I have luxury of picking the right tool for the job. If I'm fishing the chop, I'll go out in a Marquesa. If I'm fishing very skinny water, I'll take out a Glades Skiff. I don't have a particular species that is my favorite.

TBF: Last question: What does the future hold for Hells Bay?

CP: You will see Hell's Bay continue to do what we do and do it very well. Perhaps we'll make some technical changes to some of the boats. We just spent a year and half on the Biscayne making sure it’s perfect. Many boat builders will bring a boat to market when it's 80 percent right. We make sure it's 100 percent there. You may also see a bay boat in the future, but we are still mulling that one over. No matter what, we will continue to refine and improve our boats.

I hope you enjoy this interview. What a great company. If you're in the market for a new skiff, be sure to get a Hell's Bay!! A big thanks to Chris and Wendi Peterson for taking the time to make this possible.

Friday Video: Mission

2011-08-26T14:49:00.000-04:00

You've seen some of Captain Will Benson's videos on the flat before, so here is another stellar performance by Capt. Willy. This is his entry into the Drakes fly fishing video contest. Note the Hells Bay skiff, what a beaut, Clark!!

Mission... from william benson on Vimeo.

Interview With Dr. Aaron Adams: Part Deux

2011-07-29T06:26:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was the first part of an interview I had with Dr. Adams of the Bonefish and Tarpon Trust. Here is the second part of the interview.

8. I read a little about the Abaco roundup. What do we now know about bonefish migratory patterns?

This was a great event with participation from guides, lodges, anglers, and numerous sponsors. The roundup was a tagging program for bonefish. One of the goals was to figure out how much of an area you need to protect to ensure bonefish have suitable habitat for reproducing.

Most bonefish are caught within a few miles of where they are tagged. But sonic tagging, to figure out where they spawn, show that they will migrate a pretty long distance to spawn. In Andros, bonefish will travel 47 miles to spawn and in Abaco they went from the Marls to the south end which is over 30 miles. This means you have to make sure someone isn’t waiting with a gill net in between where they will catch the fish. The Bahamian guides have used the research to really step-up to put an end to illegal fishing.

9. As an angler, what's the most important thing I can do to make sure my daughter and son can catch a grand slam when they are older?

First, join BTT, there is no other group in the world working on the conservation of these species. Make sure your fisheries management agencies and your elected officials know how important these fisheries are. Do the same thing in other countries. Let fisheries and department of tourism know that killing fish will deplete the resources and that you are there to fish. Chico Fernandez said, "There was once a time where we could go fishing and go home and forget it about. Now we have to be involved."

Finally, take part in the research programs like Project Permit and the Abaco Roundup.

10. I just read an article in today’s Washington Post about dead zones in the Chesapeake Bay. The same issue in the bay is happening in the Gulf of Mexico due to runoff on the Mississippi. Is this a big problem for the fish of the flats?

The Gulf does have an impact, but the Everglades are really having a major impact. The changing of freshwater patterns can effect ecology of the flats and the water quality in the Everglades has a direct correlation with the water quality of the flats

11. Care to talk about Buccaneers and Bones or Pirates of the Flats? Any funny stories to share and can we get Flip Pallot on the series next time?

On Pirates, you will notice you never heard any jokes from Lefty because he doesn’t have a clean punch line. Flip might be on next seasons show. He was in some footage but there is literally 100 of hours of tape. In November, trailers for next season will start running running.

12. When does the next season start, I follow you on twitter and it looks like you were just filming at Deep Water Cay?

Buccaneers and Bones will start next January on The Outdoor Channel.

13. What's your favorite fish to fish for?

Probably tarpon, but it’s like asking a parent who their favorite child is.

14. Why did BTT change it's name from bonefish and tarpon unlimited?

A trust is more encompassing. BTT is trying to identify information and threats, and to fund research. We then take this information and apply it to conservation efforts and to try and impact local, state, federal and even international law.

A big Thank You to Dr. Adams for taking the time to talk with me about Project Permit and Bonefish and Tarpon conservation. I strongly encourage you to join BTT and start making a difference today.

Interview with Dr. Aaron Adams of Bonefish & Tarpon Trust

2011-07-28T05:56:00.000-04:00

On Monday, I had a unique opportunity to interview a true leader in our sport. Dr. Aaron Adams, Executive Director of the Bonefish and Tarpon Trust talked with me for 40 minutes about the expansion of Project Permit, made possible through a generous donation from Costa, and about habitat and conservation efforts going on at BTT to preserve the great gamefish of the flats.

What follows is the first part of my interview. Enjoy

1. Tell me about Project Permit and what the addition of Mexico will mean for the program?

We still don't know much about permit. In 2010 with the introduction of Project Permit in Florida, we just started tagging the fish. But for such an important gamefish, we still don’t know how big their movement is or whether they move from Mexico to Florida.

We also don’t know how many people fish for permit or how many they keep. Project Permit is the first step to learning this. While all this is true in Florida, the same things apply in Mexico. We don’t know the locations of the fish and in Mexico, we don't know what conservation and protection efforts are underway and what effect it is having. In the Sian Ka’an Preserve in Mexico, there is no commercial fishing, just recreational. But tagging could determine 50 percent of the fish migrate to where commercial fishing is a problem.

2. How many permit have been tagged so far and how many captured?

440 have been tagged, only 2 have been recaptured. While this may seem like a lot of fish, we need to tag thousands of fish in order to get an accurate sample.

3. Since permit typically live in deeper water and visit the flats on occasion, do you think it will be more difficult to recapture tagged fish?

Florida is tagging everywhere, not just the flats. In Mexico, most of the efforts is on the flats.

4. What have you learned about permit migratory patterns so far from Project Permit?

The first fish caught with a tag was in Biscayne bay about a month after being tagged and it was only about a ¼ mile away. The second fish was 40 miles away from its location.

5. Do you have any early ideas or permit perception changes based on findings from project permit?

In order to get accurate samples, we need to do more tagging.

6. Of the big three fish of the flats, which one is the most endangered?

None of the fish are necessarily endangered, but the threats are different for each one. Permit is lack of knowledge. There has never been a stock assessment. We don’t know what is going on, and if a decline does take place, it would most likely be too late to do anything about it.

Habitat loss is a key issue for both tarpon and bones as well as permit. Juvenile permit, only an inch or two long require sandy beaches. Beach re-nourishment projects can literally wipe out populations of small permit because they need more coarse sand and these "new" beaches tend to provide fine sand. They also tend to make the water more murky which has a negative effect on the fish.

With tarpon, these fish migrate long distances, which mean that all of the locations they travel are connected. Florida does a good job of protecting the species and few tarpon are killed. But in Mexico, all the tournaments are kill tournaments and in other areas of the world they kill the big fish, which tend to be the females and that's not good. Louisiana still has kill tournaments.

7. What is the one thing most threatening to that species?

There are common denominators that are a threat to all the species. Specifically, water flows and habitat destruction. Florida has done a good job in preventing development and protecting areas whereas in other countries, Belize for example, the development is really bad. Developers have purchased big areas of mangroves, drained the area, and turned them into private islands. This habitat loss can be detrimental to fish.

So there you have, part two to be posted tomorrow. But I do know that, Drs. orders, I need to do more Permit fishing and tagging!! The wife is going to love that one, but do you think she will buy it?

Give me one more day

2011-07-27T09:32:00.001-04:00

Last night I was out with the family until late so no chance to get the interview with Dr. Adams of BTT up. I can tell you it was fascinating and I learned a lot.

Until tomorrow, here's a pic I took last night of our nation's Capitol. A beautiful evening in D.C. listening to the Air Force jazz band.