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© St. Petersburg Times, published June 5, 2002
Some days the glamor species just don't bite. Other times, they may be unreachable because of the weather. What if you're an inshore angler with a fish dinner on the agenda and trout are out of season, snook are closed and the tides are not right for redfish?
Being a well-rounded angler means having the ability to catch fish on any given day, under any given condition. It may not always be trout, redfish and snook. Sometimes, alternate species become the target.
Flounder, mackerel, sheepshead, sea bass and many more make fine table fare, but many scoff at catching such lowly fish. Jacks and ladyfish make worthy opponents for the catch-and-release crowd, yet these don't get respect, either.
Remember what fishing is all about. Hone your skills and search out new spots that will produce when other fishing is off. If you're hung up on catching "real fish," then take along a youngster. He or she will show you the true joy in catching the alternates.
- Capt. Brent Gaskill charters the Summer Vacation out of St. Petersburg and can be reached at (727) 343-1765 or by e-mail at gaskill@tampabay.rr.com.