Daily fishing report

By DAVE ZALEWSKI
Published December 11, 2005

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Strong winds and high seas kept us in port last week.

When winds are strong from the east, seas are calm near shore but build rapidly at 3 to 4 miles offshore. The Physical Oceanographic Real Time System (1-866 827-6787) gives up-to-the-minute wind speed and direction from several locations in the Tampa Bay area. When winds reach 15 knots from the south, west or north, it's not pleasant offshore.

Binoculars focused on the horizon will answer the question of whether to stay in port and do maintenance. They allow you to see the true condition of the seas past that 3- to 4-mile distance.

Recreational boats must carry at least one personal flotation device for each person. Most recreational boats have Type II. Boats under charter must have Type I equipped with a light and reflective tape that have more flotation and are designed to keep the wearer's head out of water even when unconscious. It might be a good idea for recreational boaters to invest in Type I PFDs.

Dave Zalewski charters the Lucky Too out of Madeira Beach and can be reached at 727 397-8815 or by e-mail at Luckytoo2@aol.com