Why we fish the Fishing Capital of the World

[harbison]

Why we fish the Fishing Capital of the World

This just in from California:
"I simply must fish Florida in my lifetime."
Ever wonder why so many want to fish our Florida waters? Let's take a look:
First up is weather. Our tropical weather is ideal for fishing 24/7 every month of the year. When many are ice fishing, we are basking in the sun.
And don't forget variety. There is something for everyone. The fish rich Florida Middle Grounds, home to 170 species of fish, is just one example of many.
Another good reason is the number of trophy game fish.
  Let's take a look at International Game Fish (IGFA) records.
(Source: American Sportfishing Association and Southwick Associates)
# of current records:
Florida  -  979
California - 323
Alaska - 320
What about saltwater economic impact?
Saltwater recreational fishing in Florida supports 88,501 jobs and is a 9.2 billion dollar industry.
That 9.2 billion dollars is a good reason why Florida is one of the few states with no state income tax:

How good is the fish rich Florida Middle Grounds?
Let's take a look.
3:00 pm Friday, the Florida Fisherman ll leaves Madeira Beach, Florida and immediately heads NW towards the Grounds.
First up the elusive Mangrove (Mango) Snapper.

The night bite was slower than we would have liked. Wonder what the day will bring?

One thing is for sure, with Tammy around it will be the
The Mango Snapper are ready for breakfast.
Let's be sure they pay for their meal:


Often the best part of Mangrove Snapper fishing comes after the catch:


Another very good eating fish, the Porgy. They grow BIG on the Grounds:

One of the best eating fish ever to swim, the Gag Grouper:


Think Gags are great? One of the best eating fish ever to grace a table, the Scamp Grouper:

And now, one of the most sought-after fish of them all;
the reason why "I simply must fish Florida in my lifetime.'
The often imitated, but NEVER duplicated...



If it's a fight you want, try shark fishing.
This young lady cannot believer the battle between man & beast.

Both have been in the fight of their life. That shark gave all he had to give; so did Mr. John Martin.
After a very long battle John wins, thanks the shark for the fight, ask him to smile for pictures and releases him to fight again. The gaff pulls the hook out of the mighty shark's jaws. No need to vent; sharks do not have an air bag.

Late Saturday evening:

Before we hit our bunks for the long ride home, it's Tammy time.
But there is a problem; that Lasagna has way too much meat & cheese. What a problem!



Nothing like coming home in the money:

Until next week we say good by to...

Want to see, feel,  Florida and the Florida Middle Grounds up close and personal?  Want to see, 'Why we fish the Fishing Capital of the World?'
Catch the on the water video:
 

Credits:
American Sportfishing Associates
Southwik Associates
FWC
Wikipedia
IGFA
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

[fluke - u]

  ............