Outdoors

Daily fishing report

By STEVE INGRAM
Published July 6, 2004

Fishing this time of year can be hot and heaven. But don't overlook the weather. The normal summer pattern is calm in the morning and stormy in the afternoon. On a recent charter we ran into the opposite: morning storms gave way to a midday break, only to be followed by severe afternoon storms. With safety a priority, we ran back to the marina to wait for the storms to pass. Be prepared for sudden weather changes. Watch and listen for for the slightest hint of an approaching storm.

In preparation for summer fishing, watch several weather reports before leaving home. Have a game plan for the area you are going to fish so that in the event of a sudden storm, you will have a place of safety. No one should leave the dock without a mounted or hand-held VHF radio. This will assist you in checking while on the water for special marine weather.

If fishing offshore, use extra caution as storms may develop between you and the safety of the dock. File a float plan or return time with at least two people onshore. Remember that if you can hear it, fear it, and if you can see it, flee it.

- Steve Ingram charters out O'Neil's Marina in St Petersburg and can be reached at 813 298-6511 or by e-mail at FishSteve@Hotmail.com

[Last modified July 6, 2004, 01:00:19]