Nearly seven years to the day

That’s how long it’s been since I first guided Kevin Hall. Back then I was fresh into the full-time guiding scene, grinding and figuring things out as I built Ugly Fishing into what it is today.

Kevin was visiting the Mobile Bay and Fairhope, Alabama area trying to decide if this might become a place he’d eventually invest in a home.

We fished two days on that first trip.

One day we worked docks and shoreline structure around Fairhope and caught redfish nearly all day long. The other day we ran into Mississippi Sound and caught speckled trout until we lost count.

Kevin is an outdoorsman through and through. He hunts and fishes all over the country. Sometimes he brings family along, but most of the time he flies solo when he books a trip with me.

Over the years we’ve built a great guide-to-client relationship. Kevin appreciates my style of guiding and he’s always respectful of the fishery, which means a lot to me.

Not long after that first trip, Kevin ended up buying a house on Fish River.

So when I saw his name pop up on my online booking platform Fishing Chaos, I knew this was going to be a fun trip.

A couple days before the trip I checked the forecast.

Light easterly winds around 5–8 knots.

Perfect.

If those conditions held, we weren’t just going fishing.

We were going catching.

Because when the wind, tide, and water clarity line up just right during spring fishing in Mobile Bay, a trip can turn into what I like to call a spring catching trip.

The main targets would be sheepshead and redfish, but on days like that you never really know what might show up. Spadefish, snapper, triggerfish, pompano, bluefish, spanish mackerel — it can turn into a real mixed bag when the bite is right.

Anniversary Morning at Weeks Bay

Kevin met me at Weeks Bay boat ramp at 6:15 that morning.

Light east wind. Clean water. The kind of calm morning that makes you feel like something good is about to happen.

Kevin greeted me the way he always does — big smile and a firm handshake.

Then he said something that caught me off guard.

“Today’s our anniversary.”

I looked at him confused.

“Seven years since you guided me the first time.”

That was pretty cool to hear.

Kevin told me those first trips helped finalize his decision to buy a place here in the Mobile Bay area. I joked that maybe I should get a little real estate commission.

But honestly, hearing that meant a lot.

We shoved off the dock around 6:20 and pointed the boat toward the Gulf.

Getting the Skunk Off the Boat

Our first stop didn’t take long to produce.

Double up.

Kevin landed a sheepshead while I brought in a pompano. Both legal fish and both headed to the box.

Just like that the skunk was off the boat within minutes.

Now it felt like catching.

We made a couple more moves without much happening and I started wondering if maybe I had spoken too soon calling it a catching trip.

Then we made our third stop.

I dropped the Power-Pole Move trolling motor and was still adjusting the boat position when Kevin pitched a shrimp into the perfect zone.

His drag started peeling immediately.

At first I thought red snapper. But the fight didn’t quite look right for a snapper.

The fish made several strong runs toward the bottom, digging down 15–20 feet at a time. The water was clear with about 6–8 feet of visibility, and eventually we saw a silver flash below the boat.

Sheepshead!

And a good one.

The Lew’s reel was singing while braid hummed through the guides as Kevin worked the fish toward the boat. When it surfaced I slipped the Bubba net underneath it.

A really nice sheepshead.

Kevin looked at it and said the words every guide loves to hear.

“That’s my PB.”

Personal best.

We snapped a few pictures and got back to fishing. That fish ended up being the only sheepshead from that particular spot, with most of the other bites coming from red snapper.

Still fun — but I knew we could find something better.

When the Catching Turned On

We made another move.

I told Kevin, “If we can set up exactly the way I want here, this should be our best option yet.”

When we slid into position everything lined up perfectly — wind, current, and boat angle.

Kevin dropped his bait.

I dropped mine.

Immediate bite.

I landed a sheepshead and thought to myself, “Alright… they’re here.”

Then things slowed for a minute.

Then Kevin hooked up.

Then I hooked one.

Back and forth.

Sheepshead.
Red snapper.
Sheepshead again.

The bite started building.

Before long Kevin had a really nice box of Mobile Bay sheepshead ready to take home. Plenty of meals and a brand-new personal best to go with it.

Kevin was fired up.

So I asked him, “You want to go look for some redfish?”

He didn’t hesitate.

“HELL yeah dude! Let’s do it. This has already been an amazing trip.”

Sight Casting Redfish in Mobile Bay

We picked up and moved toward an area I like to check for Mobile Bay redfish this time of year.

Now the game changed from catching to hunting.

We slowly scanned the water while watching both the surface and the Raymarine Axiom Pro fish finder.

I marked a couple fish but nothing that looked like the school I wanted.

Then I saw it.

A copper colored shadow sliding through the water and even some tails and fins above the water surface.

My Bajio sunglasses cut the glare perfectly, and once I saw that color shift I knew exactly what we were looking at.

Redfish.

I handed Kevin a setup built for the job — a 5000 Quantum Benchmark reel paired with a 7’6” Bubba rod rigged with a ½ oz Eye Strike Diezel Eye jig head and a 5” Sexy Penny Z-Man paddler.

As we eased toward the school I gave Kevin a quick tip.

“Don’t throw right in the middle of them. Cast across the edge.”

I spotted the fish almost 300 yards away, and creeping within casting distance without spooking them feels like watching paint dry.

Finally we got close enough.

I double tapped the remote and dropped the twin Power Poles to stop the boat.

Kevin cast.

Nothing.

Another cast.

Still nothing.

So I switched him over to another Quantum and Bubba combo rigged with a cracked pepper OG Slick Lure on an unweighted Owner Beast hook.

Something more subtle. I think the 1/2 oz jighead was too much for this particular area and with these particular set of conditions.

That did the trick.

Kevin started picking fish off the school one by one.

Four sight-cast Mobile Bay redfish later we were both just enjoying the moment as the school cruised the flat in front of us.

The Last Cast

I told Kevin, “Alright, one more. Toss it out there around the 10 o’clock direction.”

There was a light left-to-right breeze, and Kevin’s 10 o’clock ended up landing a little closer to 12 o’clock — right out in front of the boat.

I laughed.

“Man… that might not work.”

But sometimes the fish have other plans.

One redfish suddenly broke away from the school and charged Kevin’s slick lure. You could see the fish tracking it as it pushed a wake toward the boat.

Kevin started his retrieve and that redfish absolutely crushed it.

He leaned back and buried the Owner Beast hook into the mouth of the most aggressive fish in the group.

After a short fight we landed our fifth sight-cast redfish of the morning.

Kevin and I both started laughing.

Perfect ending.

We fist bumped, admired the fish for a moment, and let it swim back to the school.

Then I lifted the Power Poles and we eased away slowly with the Power-Pole Move, sliding quietly off the flat so we didn’t blow the school out of the area.

We came, we saw, we conquered — and left them right where they wanted to be.

Spring Fishing in Mobile Bay

Spring is one of the best times of year for fishing in Mobile Bay, Alabama.

Sheepshead stack up around structure and jetties, while redfish begin cruising the shallows where anglers can sight-cast to them in clear water. On the right weather window it’s possible to catch multiple species on the same trip including sheepshead, pompano, redfish, snapper, spadefish, and more.

For anglers visiting the Fairhope and Mobile Bay area, spring offers some of the most exciting inshore fishing of the year.

Seven Years Later

By the end of the trip Kevin had:

• A personal best sheepshead
• A box of great eating fish
• Five sight-cast redfish to finish the morning

Not a bad way to celebrate a seven-year fishing anniversary.

Seven years ago I was just getting started guiding full time.

Kevin was exploring the Mobile Bay area trying to decide if this might become home.

Now he owns a place on Fish River, and every once in a while we meet back up on the water to make another memory.

And when the wind, water, and fish all line up just right…

It stops feeling like fishing.

And starts feeling a lot like catching.

Fish Mobile Bay With Ugly Fishing

If you'd like to experience a trip like this, check out my Mobile Bay fishing charters and come spend a day on the water.

Whether you're targeting sheepshead, redfish, speckled trout, or seasonal species, there’s always something biting in Mobile Bay. (Click HERE View my personalized species calendar)

The post From Fishing to Catching: Spring Sheepshead Fishing in Mobile Bay appeared first on Ugly Fishing Charter Fishing.

The Winter Classic 2026 | Speckled Trout Tournament Recap from Mobile Bay

View tournament results on Fishing Chaos

🏆 The Winter Classic 2026

January 24–25 | Mobile, Alabama
Weigh-In Hosted Jointly by Classic Tournaments LLC and Saltwater Finaddicts

The Winter Classic has never been about comfort or certainty. It’s a tournament built on preparation, discipline, and decisions that don’t fully reveal themselves until the final fish hits the scale. In 2026, that reality was amplified by changing weather, a new flight system, and margins so thin that nothing felt settled until the very end.

With 24 registered teams — the most ever — on the water, the field was stacked with past champions and perennial contenders. The format once again stretched pressure from first light to final weigh-in, and the Winter Classic played out exactly as intended.

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Day One Results – Winter Classic 2026 Speckled Trout Tournament

Saturday introduced a significant change for 2026: staggered dock departures, known as flights. Teams were released one minute apart beginning at 5:00 a.m. The rule was designed to improve safety and organization, but it immediately added strategic complexity before the first cast ever hit the water.

Weather added another layer.

Saturday featured light to moderate easterly winds and generally pleasant conditions, but in winter tournaments, even “good” weather is an active variable. East winds can reposition water and bait, making some historically productive areas less consistent while opening others. In the Winter Classic, weather is the great equalizer — capable of making entire areas unfishable while quietly turning overlooked water into the right decision at the right time.

Despite early departures, no lines were allowed in the water until 6:00 a.m. With a 6:47 a.m. sunrise, many teams spent nearly an hour with trolling motors deployed, positioning and waiting in total darkness. Several anglers later reported catching fish shortly after the clock struck six, a narrow window that rewarded preparation and clean execution.

Saturday also carried a pressure unique to two-day events: every decision had to account for Sunday.

Where a team fished on Saturday mattered not only for the weight they brought in, but for whether that water would still be available — and fishable — the next day. Teams fortunate enough to fish the same area both days are rare, and even luckier if that area continues to produce. Many anglers are forced to abandon water entirely on Sunday due to changing conditions.

Flights complicated those calculations further. Anglers had to decide whether a team leaving ahead of them might reach a preferred first spot, whether a longer run was worth the risk, or whether a closer area might offer more consistency across both days. In practice, this appeared to spread anglers out, reducing boat racing to high-value areas and rewarding decision-making over speed.

In a tournament built on long-standing relationships, some of those decisions extended beyond strategy alone. Quiet gentleman’s agreements existed in certain cases — informal understandings rooted in trust, history, and respect — reinforcing that the Winter Classic isn’t just about rules on paper, but about how anglers conduct themselves on the water.

AweSkeet, made up of Jonas Alexander and Clay Dean, didn’t leave the dock until 5:16 a.m., scheduled as the 17th team out. Despite the later start and evolving conditions, they capitalized early. When Saturday’s weigh-in concluded at Ralph & Kacoo’s, AweSkeet sat atop the leaderboard with a 16.86-pound bag, earning the Day One lead and the Saturday Heavy Bag award sponsored by Z-Man Fishing Products and Release Over 20.

It was a familiar position for a team that has fished the Winter Classic every year — often flashing strong Day One performances only to see momentum fade on Sunday.

Behind them, defending champions J&J Show (Jamie Stevens and James Montalvo) checked in 14.43 pounds. GnR, also known as Another Slick in the Wall, with Will Gunnells and Noel Riley, followed closely with 13.68 pounds.

The leaderboard remained compressed. UglyWood (Patric Garmeson and Trevor Wood), Barker Brothers (Noah Barker and Kaleb Barker), and Trout Slapper’Z (Taylor Morrow and Jared Donnelly) all hovered within ounces of one another, keeping nearly the entire field in contention for Sunday.

Early Saturday morning also produced one of the fastest paydays of the weekend. At 6:32 a.m., just 32 minutes into the tournament, GnR entered a 31.50-inch redfish into the CPR Redfish category, effectively locking up the payout before most teams had settled into their first area.

By the end of Saturday, 20 of the 24 teams brought fish to the scales, reinforcing just how open the tournament still was. With forecasts calling for deteriorating conditions, no position felt safe. The Winter Classic has seen 16-pound Day One bags followed by five-pound Sundays, and light Saturdays turn into 20-pound rebounds when timing and conditions finally align.

Weather Conditions and Strategy on Day One

Sunday’s flights were inverted from Saturday — last on Day One went first, and the Saturday leader weighed last.

The day began warm and breezy, but conditions escalated quickly as a strong southerly flow built through the morning. Sustained winds pushed past 15 knots, and around 11:00 a.m., a severe thunderstorm rolled through the area. Many anglers later reported that their largest fish of the tournament were caught just before — or during — the rain, a brief window that rewarded teams already in position.

Once the storm passed, winds swung sharply out of the north and temperatures dropped, compressing bite windows and forcing real-time adjustments.

Approaches varied. Some teams focused on securing five fish as quickly as possible, then looking for upgrades. Others committed entirely to big-fish water and big-fish tactics, even if it meant grinding all day for fewer bites. Many anglers paid close attention to keeping fish alive, prioritizing clean execution over marginal gains, especially with live-fish bonuses in play.

Each live speckled trout brought to the scale earned a 0.25-pound bonus, up to 1.25 pounds per day. Hearing “Five Alive” at the weigh station wasn’t just exciting — it meant meaningful weight added to the leaderboard.

By Sunday afternoon, only 12 of the 24 teams ultimately brought fish to the scales, a reflection of just how demanding the second day became.

Day Two Results – When Weather Changed Everything

All teams were required to be checked in and parked at Ralph & Kacoo’s by 3:00 p.m. each day. A strict one-pound-per-minute late penalty ensured punctuality, and all trucks, trailers, and boats were staged before weigh-in began.

Sunday’s weigh-in followed the inverted format. The first team called was the 11th-place team from Saturday, as all teams below them either chose not to enter fish or were unable to bring any to the scales.

Jonas Alexander and Clay Dean waited it out. They would weigh last.

They sat in the truck nearby, stereo turned up loud with AC/DC and other pump-up songs echoing through the lot. Jonas appeared relaxed and confident, feeding off the moment. Clay wore it differently — pacing, watching every bag hit the scale, quietly doing the math as numbers stacked up.

AweSkeet had been here before.
Strong Saturdays.
Promising starts.
Sundays that didn’t always cooperate.

Sunday Weigh-In at Ralph & Kacoo’s – Winter Classic Tradition

Trout Slapper’Z, with Taylor Morrow and Jared Donnelly, delivered the heaviest bag of Sunday at 13.40 pounds, earning the Sunday Heavy Bag award sponsored by Pure Flats (Slick Lure) and Release Over 20. UglyWood, with Patric Garmeson and Trevor Wood, followed closely with 12.59 pounds, while GnR added 11.28 pounds.

AweSkeet didn’t drop the heaviest bag on Sunday, but it was enough. Their 12.40-pound Day Two total, including live-fish bonus, kept them in control.

Every fish weighed throughout the weekend was processed through the Fishing Chaos app. At the scales, Justin Fadalla of Saltwater Finaddicts called each team’s live-fish count and official creel weight. Heather Fadalla entered the data and called it back aloud, while Marty Garmeson assisted alongside them throughout the weigh-in process, creating transparency and redundancy every angler could hear and see.

Day Two and total standings remained hidden from public view. Only the tournament director could see the full picture as results finalized. Once the top three teams were identified, a member of the winning team and a member of the second- or third-place team were selected for polygraph examinations sponsored by Pure Flats.

Winter Classic 2026 Winners and Payouts

First came the Average Joe award, and it delivered some of the most unexpected drama of the afternoon.

With the tournament average landing at 14.57 pounds, Barker Brothers (Noah Barker and Kaleb Barker) finished at 14.32 pounds, while Bay Beast (Jonathan Clark and Joey Bollinger) came in at 14.85 pounds — a margin so small it amounted to roughly the weight of a single lure.

Barker Brothers reached their number by weighing a single two-pound fish on Sunday. Bay Beast brought five fish to the scales both days. Two completely different paths, separated by only a few hundredths of a pound, and a perfect reminder of why you always weigh your fish.

Then came the Lunker Trout and CPR Redfish awards. AweSkeet’s 5.35-pound speckled trout stood all weekend, and GnR’s redfish — entered just 32 minutes into Saturday — had never been challenged.

Then came the podium.

Third place went to Trout Slapper’Z, Taylor Morrow and Jared Donnelly.
Second place followed with GnR, Will Gunnells and Noel Riley.
First place belonged to AweSkeet, Jonas Alexander and Clay Dean.

No gasp.
No shock.
Just release — and a well-earned round of applause.

For Jonas Alexander and Clay Dean, the win was more than a check. AweSkeet has fished the Winter Classic every year. Prior to 2026, their best result was a single second-place finish, despite multiple strong Day One performances followed by difficult Sundays.

This time, discipline held. Execution stayed clean. The Sunday slump finally broke. Second through fourth place were separated by less than a pound — a familiar Winter Classic margi

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The post 2026 Winter Classic Results appeared first on Ugly Fishing Charter Fishing.

The post October Fishing in Mobile Bay: A Magical Time on the Alabama Gulf Coast appeared first on Ugly Fishing Charter Fishing.

Introduction:

Ahoy, fellow anglers! I’m Captain Patric Garmeson, your dedicated guide to the incredible world of fish in Alabama. Brace yourselves for an adventure as we explore the rich tapestry of Alabama’s saltwater wonders, with a focus on the famed speckled trout, redfish, flounder, sheepshead, jack crevalle, and more. Join me on this journey through the waters of Alabama, as we uncover the secrets to an unforgettable fishing experience.

Section 1: The Irresistible Charm of Alabama’s Saltwater Haven

Alabama’s Gulf Coast is a haven for anglers, offering a unique blend of saltwater environments that cater to a diverse range of fish species. From the spirited speckled trout to the elusive redfish and the challenging flounder, these waters hold the promise of thrilling encounters for every angler.

Section 2: A Captain with a Passion for Alabama’s Saltwater Treasures

Allow me to introduce myself – Captain Patric Garmeson, your enthusiastic guide to the vibrant saltwater fisheries of Alabama. With years of navigating these waters, I’ve developed an intimate understanding of the behaviors and habitats of the exciting species that make the Gulf Coast their home.

Section 3: Tailored Adventures for Every Angler

What sets my charters apart is the personalized experience I offer. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just dipping your toes into the world of fishing, I tailor each trip to suit your skill level and preferences. Join me for a day of camaraderie and learning as we pursue the diverse bounty that Alabama’s saltwater has to offer.

Section 4: The Dance with Speckled Trout, Redfish, Flounder, Sheepshead, Jack Crevalle, and More

Let’s unravel the mysteries of Alabama’s saltwater superstars! Discover the best techniques, the most enticing baits, and the prime locations for hooking the prized speckled trout, the elusive redfish, the cunning flounder, the robust sheepshead, the powerful jack crevalle, and the ever-elusive flounder. I’ll share the tips and tricks that guarantee a successful fishing expedition.

Section 5: Booking Your Exclusive Saltwater Adventure

Ready to embark on a saltwater adventure like no other? Head over to UglyFishing.com, where you can explore a range of guided trips and packages tailored to suit your saltwater fishing dreams. Whether you’re after the thrill of the chase or the relaxation of a day on the water, I’ve got the perfect experience waiting for you.

Conclusion:

Alabama’s saltwater paradise is calling, and I’m here to guide you through an unparalleled fishing experience. Join me, Captain Patric Garmeson, on the journey of a lifetime, and let’s make memories as we reel in the finest speckled trout, redfish, flounder, sheepshead, jack crevalle, and more. Book your adventure now, and let’s set sail into the captivating world of Alabama’s saltwater wonders!

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When it comes to angling excitement, few experiences can match the thrill of chasing after the mighty Bull Redfish. These powerful creatures provide anglers with not only a formidable fight but also a memorable fishing adventure. If you’re an avid fisherman seeking to conquer the waters of Dauphin Island and Mobile Bay, look no further than Ugly Fishing and its expert captains, Patric Garmeson and Taylor Morrow. Get ready to dive into an unforgettable journey of Dauphin Island Bull Redfish fishing, guided by these seasoned experts.

Discovering the Dauphin Island Bull Redfish Fishing Charter Experience

Dauphin Island, nestled along the Gulf Coast of Alabama, is renowned for its diverse marine life and exceptional fishing opportunities. Among its prized catches, Bull Redfish stand out as one of the most sought-after trophies for anglers. The brackish waters of Mobile Bay and the surrounding area provide the perfect habitat for these robust fish, making it a paradise for Bull Redfish enthusiasts.

Ugly Fishing, a prominent name in the fishing charter industry, offers an experience like no other. Their Dauphin Island Bull Redfish fishing charter is tailored to provide anglers of all levels with an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice looking to experience the thrill of reeling in a Bull Redfish, Ugly Fishing has you covered.

Navigating the Waters with Captains Patric Garmeson and Taylor Morrow

Two integral figures in Ugly Fishing’s success story are Captains Patric Garmeson and Taylor Morrow. With a combined experience spanning decades, these captains have honed their skills and developed an intimate understanding of the waters around Dauphin Island and Mobile Bay. Their expertise isn’t just limited to fishing techniques; they also have an in-depth knowledge of the behavior and migration patterns of Bull Redfish.

Captain Patric Garmeson’s passion for angling is contagious, and his dedication to providing an exceptional experience is evident in every trip. His ability to locate the prime Bull Redfish hotspots combined with his friendly and patient guidance makes him an ideal companion for both seasoned fishermen and beginners.

On the other hand, Captain Taylor Morrow brings a unique perspective to the charter experience. His profound respect for nature and the art of fishing creates a serene yet exciting atmosphere on the boat. Captain Morrow’s insights into sustainable fishing practices ensure that the Bull Redfish population continues to thrive, allowing future generations to enjoy the same exhilarating experiences.

Embarking on a Mobile Bay Bull Redfish Fishing Charter

While Dauphin Island offers its own charm, the waters of Mobile Bay are equally abundant with Bull Redfish and promise a thrilling adventure. Ugly Fishing’s Mobile Bay Bull Redfish fishing charter is a gateway to discovering a new realm of angling possibilities. Captains Garmeson and Morrow leverage their extensive knowledge to provide a seamless experience, ensuring that you have the best chance of reeling in these magnificent creatures.

Conclusion

In the realm of sport fishing, few encounters are as electrifying as the pursuit of Bull Redfish. With Ugly Fishing and the expert guidance of Captains Patric Garmeson and Taylor Morrow, your journey to conquer the waters of Dauphin Island and Mobile Bay becomes a reality. The Dauphin Island Bull Redfish fishing charter and Mobile Bay Bull Redfish fishing charter offered by Ugly Fishing promise not only a chance to catch trophy fish but also an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast. Book your adventure today and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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The Quest for Jack Crevalle:

Mobile Bay, nestled along Alabama’s Gulf Coast, offers a prime habitat for the robust and hard-fighting Jack Crevalle. These fish are known for their incredible strength and speed, making them a favorite among anglers seeking an adrenaline-pumping challenge. To successfully target these feisty creatures, a skilled guide is essential, and that’s where Captain Patric and Captain Taylor enter the picture.

Captain Patric: A Master of Versatility

Captain Patric of Ugly Fishing is renowned for his versatility in tackling various fishing scenarios. His expertise in throwing topwater lures is second to none. Jack Crevalle, known for their aggressive surface strikes, fall prey to these lures with an explosive display that every angler dreams of witnessing. Captain Patric’s knowledge of the most productive lures, as well as his insights into the fish’s behavior, can turn an ordinary cast into an electrifying catch.

But that’s not all – Captain Patric’s skills extend beyond the topwater action. His ability to locate schools of fish blitzing on the surface is unparalleled. He has a knack for interpreting the water’s movement and sound patterns, allowing him to intercept these fast-moving schools and position you for a thrilling battle with the Jack Crevalle.

Captain Taylor: Chasing Adrenaline with Precision

Captain Taylor, another standout figure in the world of Jack Crevalle fishing charters, brings a unique approach to the table. His specialty lies in sight casting, an art that requires pinpoint accuracy and quick reflexes. Jack Crevalle are known to patrol shallow waters, making them prime targets for sight casting. With Captain Taylor’s guidance, you’ll learn the art of spotting these fish before they spot you, and then executing the perfect cast to trigger their aggression. Don’t worry many times Taylor will have you sight casting into schools of hungry fish where precision is far less important.

Captain Taylor’s expertise isn’t limited to sight casting. His knowledge of the local currents and migration patterns enables him to anticipate where the Jack Crevalle are likely to be. Whether it’s the thrill of a topwater strike or the strategy of chasing down schools, Captain Taylor’s holistic approach ensures a memorable experience for all anglers.

The Verdict: Choosing Your Captain

Deciding between Patric and Taylor for your Mobile Bay Jack Crevalle charter, it comes down to your preferred fishing style. If you’re drawn to the excitement of surface strikes and intercepting schools, Patric’s expertise with topwater lures and school detection makes him an ideal choice. On the other hand, if you’re keen on mastering the art of sight casting and targeting the Jack Crevalle with precision, Captain Taylor’s skills and knowledge will leave you in awe.

Both Captain Patric and Captain Taylor have proven themselves as the best fishing guides for Jack Crevalle in Mobile Bay. Their diverse tactics, honed through years of experience, ensure that anglers of all skill levels can enjoy a successful and exhilarating Jack Crevalle fishing charter. So, gear up and get ready for a fishing adventure that will leave you with stories to tell for years to come!

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Local Expertise and Knowledge:

Captain Taylor’s deep-rooted connection to Mobile Bay gives him a solid understanding of the area’s unique fishing spots, tides, and seasons. This expertise ensures that your fishing adventure will be tailored to the optimal conditions for reeling in those prized flounder.

In-Depth Instruction:

One of Captain Taylor’s standout qualities is his eagerness to teach. He’s not just about helping you catch fish; he’s dedicated to imparting his fishing wisdom. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned angler, Captain Taylor will provide you with valuable insights on baiting, casting techniques, and reading the water, all crucial for successful flounder fishing. Experiencing a Mobile Bay flounder fishing charter with Taylor will improve your fishing ability and over all fishing knowledge.

Targeting Inshore Species:

While flounder might be the primary focus on a Mobile Bay flounder fishing charter, Captain Taylor’s knowledge extends beyond just one species. He can guide you to the best locations for catching other inshore species as well, making your fishing trip a diverse and exciting experience.

Mobile Bay Flounder Fishing Guide Customized Experiences:

Captain Taylor understands that each angler has unique goals and preferences. He takes the time to understand your expectations, tailoring the trip to match your skill level and interests. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day on the water or an action-packed adventure, Captain Taylor has you covered.

Properly Maintained Equipment:

With Captain Taylor, you don’t need to worry about bringing your own gear. Ugly Fishing ensures that all equipment is well-maintained and of the highest quality, giving you the tools you need for a successful fishing excursion.

Local Insights and Stories:

Part of the joy of fishing is immersing yourself in the culture and stories of the area. Captain Taylor’s familiarity with Mobile Bay’s history and ecology will enrich your experience, providing a deeper appreciation for the environment you’re fishing in.
Finally, if you’re searching for an exceptional Mobile Bay flounder fishing adventure, Captain Taylor Morrow of Ugly Fishing is the guide you need. With his local expertise, dedication to teaching, and commitment to creating unforgettable experiences, he will undoubtedly elevate your fishing trip to new heights. Get ready to cast your line, learn from the best, and reel in those impressive flounder with the guidance of Captain Taylor Morrow. Book your trip today for an angling adventure you won’t soon forget.

The post Mobile Bay Flounder Fishing Charter with Captain Taylor Morrow: appeared first on Ugly Fishing Charter Fishing.

Understanding Flounder:

Flounder, with their distinctive flat bodies and remarkable camouflage, are a prized catch among anglers. These fish are known for their elusive behavior and their penchant for hiding in sandy or muddy areas, making them a thrilling challenge to catch. Flounder fishing requires patience, skill, and a solid understanding of their habits and habitats.

Best Times to Fish:

Timing is crucial in flounder fishing. The prime season for flounder fishing in Mobile Bay typically runs from late summer through early autumn. During this period, flounder move into shallower waters to feed. Pay attention to tidal movements, as these play a significant role in flounder behavior. Time of day is probably my least concern when targeting flounder.

Tackle and Gear:

Selecting the right tackle and gear is essential for a successful fishing trip. Opt for medium to medium-heavy spinning or casting rods paired with a quality reel, as flounder can put up a good fight. I prefer to use braid as my mainline and a fluorocarbon or mono leader to reduce visibility and increase your chances of a strike. Jigs, soft plastic baits like the slick lure and live minnows are popular choices for luring in flounder.

Choosing Fishing Locations:

Mobile Bay offers a diverse range of fishing spots, each with its unique appeal. Look for areas with a mix of sandy bottoms, seagrass beds, and structures like piers and bridges. Flounder often seek out these spots for cover and foraging. Pay attention to depth changes, drop-offs, and submerged structures, as flounder tend to congregate around these features.

Techniques for Success:

One effective technique for flounder fishing is slow and steady retrieval. Cast your bait near potential hiding spots and retrieve it slowly along the bottom, mimicking the movement of a prey fish. Be prepared for the subtle “tap” of a flounder bite, as they tend to strike softly. However, on occasion you may feel an Electrifying “Thump”. When you feel the bite, resist the urge to jerk the rod; instead, give the fish a moment to fully take the bait before setting the hook.

Regulations and Conservation:

Before heading out on your fishing expedition, familiarize yourself with the local fishing regulations and size limits. Conservation efforts play a crucial role in preserving flounder populations, so be sure to adhere to catch limits and practice responsible angling practices.

Conclusion:
Embarking on a Mobile Bay flounder fishing adventure promises excitement, challenge, and the opportunity to reel in these elusive flatfish. Armed with the right knowledge, gear, and techniques, you’re well on your way to a successful fishing experience in one of the Gulf Coast’s most vibrant ecosystems. Get ready to make unforgettable memories as you navigate the waters of Mobile Bay in search of the ultimate flounder. And remember to keep what you need and leave the rest.

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Flounder Fishing Tournament

I’ve been fishing in the Mobile Bay area since 1985 and to my knowledge this area has never had a dedicated flounder fishing tournament. Why have a flounder tournament? How will this benefit flounder? Why are we creating another tournament? I’ll get into answering those questions along with giving a little back story to my experience with flounder fishing.

My Flounder Story

My dad was the one who introduced me to flounder fishing as a child. Well, he introduced me to most fishing when I was a child. I don’t remember my first flounder or even the first one I ever saw. However, it was and still remains my dads favorite type of fish to catch. Since he was taking my brother and I fishing we learned who to flounder fish at a young age. We would fish from the Causeway seawalls, from our boat, from the piers, and from the shoreline and jetties. Two lessons stick out in my head handed from my dad were; one while in a boat cast your lure/bait out and work it all the way to the boat and vertical jig all the way around the boat. Second lesson was after you feel the thump or weight on the end of the line you should give it at least a 5 second count before setting the hook. My dad taught me many more lessons but those two are evergreen and priceless.

Flounder Back Story

Based on my experience In the 80’s 90’s all the way up to 2010 we always flounder. If you wanted to target flounder March through November all you had to do was fish for them and you could catch them. Of course some days good, some great and some terrible but needless to say flounder fisherman caught flounder pretty much at will. Sometime after 2010 flounder fisherman began to notice very consistent declines in catches. All fisherman, even commercial fisherman. Things continued to decline year after year with little tiny blips of good fishing. Finally, in 2019 Alabama State officials decided to change the daily bag limit from 10 per person and 12″ minimum to 5 per person and a 14″ minimum size limit. In addition the Claude Peteet Mariculture center added a southern flounder broodstock program to help with stock enhancements. Flounder fishing remained poor until 2022. Like a light switch was flipped we had flounder again back to 2010 levels in my opinion. Again in 2023 we have flounder in our system.

Why Have a Flounder Tournament?

Now that flounder are on a rebound and anglers are finding moderate to great success I feel its time. I’m curious to see what a couple flounder competitions will yield. Are we putting a target on the flounder for increased harvest? One would think that would be the case when you create a saltwater tournament. Unfortunately, majority of saltwater tournaments are kill tournaments. However, with the increase of virtual tournaments and a heightened awareness of how to keep your catch alive in your boat. Both can drastically reduce fish mortality because of tournament fishing. I personally created a weekend long speckled trout where over 80% of all tournament entered fish are alive and either utilized as broodstock or released alive. Prior to my tournament the “Winter Classic” no one ever brought live speckled trout to a weigh in now many anglers bring in live fish.

How will This benefit flounder?

How is catching flounder going to benefit flounder? Fortunately, in the Mobile, Alabama area we are blessed with a top notch hatchery (Claude Peteet Mariculture Center) and a passionate hatchery manager and team who are the industry leaders in southern flounder production. We also have an incredible team of students, PhD’s, professors and such from South Alabama Marine sciences. Last but not least the CCA of Alabama is funding many projects that are flounder related in this area. Dylan Kiene AKA Dr. Doormat is our local flounder scientist. He has been working with all things flatfish for several years now and the southern flounder is his favorite. Dylan and I discussed how could a tournament benefit the flounder population? One if the hatchery needs more brood stock then our anglers are bringing in live fish so they can take them. Also, the CCA is funding a flounder tagging program and all of the fish that the hatchery doesn’t need will receive tags and released. Lastly, if some flounder do die then Dr. Doormat will be able to take ear bones, fin clips, and tissue samples for is research.

Why another Tournament?

I aim to maximize the overlap in conservation and competition. We are aiding in all things science and data collection while giving anglers a platform to flex his or her fishing muscles to win some prizes and bragging rights. The above paragraph I mentioned all the ways the two day main event tournament will help with the flounder fishery. The virtual tournament we have a partnership with Release Over 20 to gather data about flounder over 20″s being released. I am the Alabama Representative of Release Over 20 so we need more Alabama data. Whether, I am right our wrong about having another tournament it will be tough to argue that this tournament will do more harm than good.

The Doormat Classic is Born

The Winter Classic was my first tournament I ever put together and hosted (I also participate) and has 8 successful events. The Winter Classic combined the best of the BOG (Battle of the Grubs) and the Bassmaster Classic for Mobile Bay anglers. The second tournament I put together is the Convict Classic which is a 100% virtual. So here we are with a drastically improved flounder fishery, my experience hosting two totally different style tournaments, and many layers of the science community from which can benefit. In The Doormat Classic we have a competitive 27 day virtual practice round with a $25 entry fee with awards and cash prizes. Following the virtual tournament the main event Doormat Classic will begin. The Doormat Classic is 2 days, 2 angler teams, 5 fish creel per day. All live flounder will be rewarded with a .25# bonus per fish. For anyone interested in participating or following along with the flounder fishing

tournament results check out the tournament link.

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As an avid angler and fishing guide, I wanted to share some valuable tips with you on how to improve your flounder fishing game this season. Flounder fishing can be incredibly rewarding, and with a little know-how, you can enhance your chances of reeling in those prized flatfish. So, without further ado, here are five tips to help you catch more flounder this summer:

1. Choose the Right Location: Flounder are known to inhabit certain areas, so selecting the right fishing spot is crucial. Look for shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and sandy, shell or muddy bottoms where flounder tend to hide and feed. Additionally, keep an eye out for structures such as jetties, piers, and submerged vegetation that provide cover and attract flounder.
2. Optimize Your Gear: Utilizing the appropriate fishing gear is paramount when targeting flounder. Opt for a medium to medium-heavy rod with a sensitive tip to detect subtle bites and movements. Spinning reels are popular but bait caster set ups work well for flounder fishing due to their versatility. Use a braided fishing line with a mono or fluorocarbon leader to maximize your chances of a successful hook-up.
3. Master the Art of Presentation: Flounder are ambush predators that lie in wait for their prey. Mimicking their natural food sources is key to enticing a strike. Try using live bait such as mullet, pogies, shrimp, or bull minnows. Alternatively, soft plastic lures like paddle tails, curly tails, and my favorite any of the slick lure lures. Natural colors can be effective but I really like Chartreuse, hot pink, white or florescent orange.

4. Timing is Everything: Flounder tend to be more active during specific periods of the day. Dawn and dusk are prime times to target these elusive fish, as they often move closer to the shallows to feed under the cover of low light conditions. Additionally, pay attention to the tide. Flounder are commonly caught during the incoming and outgoing tides when they move in search of prey.

5. Patience and Persistence: Flounder fishing can require a good amount of patience, as it may take time to locate their preferred areas and trigger a bite. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get immediate results. Experiment with different techniques, adjust your presentation, and keep exploring different spots until you find the hotspots. Once you find one you may find several more in the same general area.
   Remember, practice makes perfect. The more time you spend on the water, the more experience you gain, and the better your chances of catching that trophy flounder. Stay observant, adapt to changing conditions, and enjoy the process of learning and improving your skills.
   I hope these tips help you have a fantastic summer of flounder fishing. May your lines be tight and your nets be full of success! Feel free to reach out if you have any further questions or need more advice.
   If interested in learning more about flounder fishing first hand from Captain Taylor . Click Here to check availability and book online. Keep what you need and release the rest.

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Live well design

I will be specifically discussing optimal live well designs for boats. However, some of the information will be transferable to other scenarios like kayaks or land based set ups. The first thing that is important to a live well is the shape. I prefer a live well that is nearly oval to round in shape. Rectangle with rounded corners are perfectly ok and most common in modern bay boats. Hard 90 degree corners are bad. Fish will have the tendency to nose into a corner. 90 degree corners do not allow for effective water circulation which we will discuss further.

Here’s a checklist of items to check to make sure your live well will be suitable.

1. measure length of your live well is it at least 28″? Optimistically, you have a couple 28″rs as part of your creel.
2. In my opinion you want a live well that is approximately 18″ wide. 5 speckled trout side by side will have ample room.
3. Depth is really acceptable around 10″. You do not need a lot of water above and below the fish. However, if its 18+” deep you are fine.
4. A lid. If you close the lid will the water be able to slosh out? If so that is not good. As you move the boat around you don’t want water easily sloshing out. Use weather striping or some type of gasket forming material around the lid. As well as having a tight fitting latch system to keep the lid cinched down.

Aeration

Live well Pump

Aeration is a term that very loosely describes adding air to something and in this case our live well water. Depending on your boat manufacture “aerators” may or may not be installed. I run a Blue Wave Pure Bay 2400. This boat is decently equipped from the factory as far as live wells are concerned. The Pure Bay comes standard with a very nice sized release/live well in the aft deck. A live well pump that is usually 800gph that pumps raw water from the water the boat is floating. This water is normally discharged into the live well through a nozzle that is best to be adjustable. You need to be able to adjust the amount of water to prevent overflow and direction to create some current. In some cases this is all the aeration you will need.

Bubbler

Another type of aeration system also found on my Blue wave 2400 Pure Bay is a bubbler. Bubblers are simply that they bubble. Most people have seen a small portable air pump you can hang on the bait bucket. That’s what we have on Blue waves only the boat version is hooked into a switch and requires 12v power. These pumps use very little energy are generally quiet and put continuous air into your live well. In my opinion you could put two or three of these pumps into one tank and not hurt only help. You can take this a step further by swapping out the bubble boxes for pure O2 oxygen bottles. Pure O2 has its health benefits for the fish for sure but you do have to maintain the bottles. Bottles require servicing and refilling where as the pump bubbler can run continuously for 1000’s of hours.

Recirculating pump

The final type of aeration found on my boat and several others is a recirculating pump. A recirculating pump recirculates water in a closed loop system. You can set your recirculating pump up one of three ways. First, pull water from the bottom and discharge above the water level line. The water level will be decided by where the tank overflow drain is located. The next set is to also pull from near the bottom and discharge under the water line. Which creates underwater current. Third, and my preferred set up is the same as the second which is under the water line. My set up is all below the water line but the pump is equipped with venturi system. The venturi system is very simple design that pulls air into the water being discharged into the live well. This third set up gives you good current and additional air.

The one thing to be careful with any type of recirculating pump is the water getting too hot. Recirculating pumps will heat the water with excessive/continuous usage. The easy solution to this is to add timer switches to your recirculating pump. Set the pump to run 90 seconds every 3-5 minutes and you should be good.

Filtration

Another really cool feature of the Blue Wave Pure Bay 2400 release well is the way the over flow drain and recirculator pump pick up is in an offset area. This area is blocked off with a removable strainer cover. I have found that cutting strips of charcoal mat and placing them inside this compartment I can filter the water being recirculated. With in an hour or so i can filter the water so that it becomes near air clear with the usage of these charcoal mats.

Salinity

Mobile Bay area and other estuary type systems you can find water too fresh on top for speckled trout. How is this possible? Salt water is denser and the fresher water will remain on the surface. The surface could be 1-4 ppt salinity (I’ll share in a bit on how to test salinity). Whereas, the fish can be caught in 10′ and the salinity is 5-7ppt. This which is perfectly acceptable for speckled trout. This being said you cannot rely of the live well pump to keep your catch alive in this scenario. If the salinity is 7 or better than you can turn on our live well pump and let it run. The way I monitor salinity is a pet shop hydrometer which is used to measure specific gravity and salinity. Use the hydrometer to keep up with changing water conditions as well.

When you find yourself in low to no surface salinity areas you need to be prepared for such a time. The solution for me is to have aquarium grade sea salt in a container in the boat. I usually keep a gallon bag in full. Use it sparingly, one to two handfuls per minute or two. Stirring the water as you add. Check the salinity with the hydrometer after a couple minutes of adding the salt. Keep in mind the hydrometer is simply measuring the density of the water so if the salt is laying on the bottom and not in solution it will give a false reading.

Live well additives

Live well additives or water conditioners come in many forms and numerous companies have their own “secret blend”. I have used many different products pogie saver, croaker saver, g-juice, rejuvinate, and the list goes on. Take a look at the descriptions of each of the products. You want to make sure you address a few key items with your additive. First, I want something that will remove ammonia this is from urine which is going to be present once you put fish in the live well. Second, slime coat replenishing additives i think are great for the health of the fish. Third, an additive with a mild tranquilizer, this helps calm the fish down and reduces stress. The last thing is a foam reducing agent. Foam can accumulate from fish slime, poop and urine. Cutting the foam will make that stuff drop to the bottom.

Maintain water temperature

Pumping water, recirculating water, all these things can warm the water to levels that could reduce the amount of dissolved oxygen in the water. Cooler water can retain more dissolved oxygen than warmer water. In this case you may run into a scenario where your water is getting too warm. The best way to resolve this is putting frozen ice bottles or putting ice in some ziplock bags and tossing in the live well. You don’t really want this to be much more than 5 -10 degrees different than the water you pulled the fish from.

Fish Care

We have no know how to set up the ideal live well and additives. Presuming we have all of t’s crossed and i’s dotted when it comes to the necessary live well design, pumps, filters, and water additives we now have the important part of fish care. Fish care begins while the fish is hooked. Fight the fish as quick as possible so that the fish is not exhausted. Net the fish with a rubber mesh net. Remove the hook for the fish’s mouth. I recommend handling the fish with wet hands or wet towel or a lip grip tool. You should support the belly of the fish keeping it horizontal as possible. Place the fish in the live well but do not let go of the fish immediately. I prefer to hold the fish in the water for however much time that is required for the fish to relax.

Weigh in time

We’ve built a great live well. We’ve bought all the necessary items to help our fish. Now it is time to weigh in. I recommend a live fish bag that is at minimum of 24″ but preferably 27″. Add a few gallons of water from your live well into your live fish bag. I like to sink the bag into the live well and get the fish to swim into the open bag. Not all will cooperate but many will. Try not to stress the fish at this point because we are almost there. Ive you can leave the bag in the live well then add some water to the bag so that all fish are well covered. Head to the scales. Depending on the tournament some may not have a tub or basket for a live fish or numerous live fish so give them the heads up that you are headed to the scale with live fish.

Wrap up

I think I covered all the nuances of keeping speckled trout alive for tournament purpose. I wrote all this out to help anglers preserve the fish we enjoy catching. Keep in mind everything in this article will work for most inshore saltwater species. Last year my son and I brought sheepshead, black drum, flounder, redfish, and speckled trout alive to the scales. Thanks for checking out this article. If you have any questions feel free to hit me up at captainpatric@uglyfishing.com

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Sheepshead, also known as convict fish, are a popular saltwater fish species found along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States. These fish are known for their hard fighting ability and their love of bait, which makes them a great catch for anglers. However, they can be a bit tricky to catch, as they are notorious for stealing bait from hooks. So, if you’re looking to catch sheepshead, here’s what you need to know.

Where to Catch Sheepshead

Sheepshead are commonly found around structure such as jetties, bridges, and pilings. They also tend to congregate around oyster beds, reef systems, and other areas with plenty of hard bottom habitat. If you’re fishing in these areas, you’re likely to come across some sheepshead.
Best Bait for Sheepshead
Sheepshead are known for their love of crustaceans, and the best bait for them is fiddler crabs, sand crabs, and clam strips. Other good options include mussels, barnacles, and shrimp. You’ll want to make sure your bait is fresh and has a good scent, as this will help attract the sheepshead to your hook.

How to Catch Sheepshead

Use the Right Tackle: When fishing for sheepshead, it’s important to use the right tackle. A medium-heavy action rod with a baitcasting reel or spinning reel is ideal. The line you use should be braided, with a test of 20 to 30 pounds.
Fish Around Structure: As mentioned, sheepshead are commonly found around structure, so make sure to fish in these areas. You can fish vertically or cast your bait out and let it sink to the bottom.
Set the Hook Quickly: Sheepshead are known for stealing bait, so it’s important to set the hook quickly once you feel a bite. This will help ensure that you hook the fish before it has a chance to steal your bait.
Use Chum: Chumming can help attract sheepshead to your fishing area. You can use ground up bait, such as shrimp or clams, to create a scent trail in the water.
In conclusion, sheepshead are a great species to target for saltwater anglers. With the right tackle, bait, and techniques, you can increase your chances of catching these hard-fighting fish. So, get out there and give it a try!

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Cold Water

We have witnessed water temps in the lower 40’s even in some areas the upper 30’s for a day or two most days water temps average around 57 degrees. Follow the water temps in real time by clicking HERE

First Cold Snap

This year our first nice cold snap rolled through our area in mid October. A cold snap in October is not uncommon and is often very much needed and appreciated. Therefore this cold snap combined with shortening days will be the first noticeable triggers to sending speckled trout toward their winter homes. Historically, I see this cold snap as false hope yet you may find some massive schools of small speckled trout. This cold snap causes smaller shrimp to start moving which will cause the smaller speckled trout to frenzy. Frenzies can be highlighted by flocks of birds feeding on shrimp. Trout are pushing shrimp to the surface and the birds feed on the fleeing shrimp. Have fun with these schools, most of these fish will be undersized but the action can be incredible.

The Warm Up

That first cold snap is just a tease. What’s next? Although, speckled trout felt changes they won’t be “piled up”, yet. Basically, the fish will be moving everyday but the “warm ups” can cause frustration. The mild air temps combined with mild water temps will feel great but the fishing can be tough. What is going on? In my opinion a warm up allows fish to spread out and feed on the best bait available. When the fish spread out they become harder to find. If fishing is hard just blame the warm up.

Approaching Cold Front

Undoubtedly cold fronts are coming. I begin pondering over how much rain will fall with each front. How will the rain impact our area and effect the fishing? Majority of the time the approaching cold front will be a warming trend. When cold fronts approach I look for speckled trout to move shallow and feed pretty well. Many times we will locate speckled trout in 2′ or less in pre-front conditions. Also as the cold front approaches the wind usually will increase. This increased wind is usually of the southern direction. Increased southern winds and warmer temps will often increase water levels throughout the Mobile Bay system. This increased wind and water levels can prove to make fishing difficult. If fishing sucks for you then blame the warm up.

The Rain Arrives

Subsequently, as the front arrives it usually brings rain to our area and throughout the entire Mobile Bay watershed. The Mobile Bay watershed consists of local and upstate watersheds. Heavy local rain will typically flush out of the smaller tidal rivers, creeks and bayous with in 1-4 days. The smaller the tributary the faster it will clean up. Large amounts of upstate rain are those areas up stream of the most southern dams. Coffeeville dam on Tombigbee River and Claiborne Lock and Dam on the Alabama River are key indicators.

Local River/ Tidal River systems

Heavy local rainfall will typically shut down or nearly eliminate all speckled trout fishing in the smallest tributaries for several days or even weeks. In my opinion these small rivers can will nearly flush all the salinity with a major local rain event, which will make it to fresh for speckled trout to survive. Therefore, these fish will leave. If you have to go fishing for speckled trout after a major rain event then I suggest to focus your efforts on the larger and deeper river systems.

Good Fishing

Although we get some cold sprinkled in here and there in October, November and early December Winter doesn’t actually begin until December 21st. I hear people talk about how good the “winter” fishing is while catching fish in early December. This good fishing is actually fall fishing and that angler is enjoying a good fall pattern. Despite what you wish to call it the fishing is generally its best before and few days after a cold front. Each front makes a change in all species from bait to big fish. Long stretches of consistent weather is often appreciated by us humans but the best fishing is usually brought on by major weather changes.

Salinity

In my experience the true winter homes of speckled trout in Alabama are the brackish rivers and creeks. In the winter speckled trout are not spawning so they only need 5ppt salinity to survive and they are quite happy in 6ppt-10ppt. The human tongue can barely taste the 5pp-7ppt so giving water the taste test to decide whether or not its fishable or not might not be the best method. Also, the saltier water is always lower in the water column. The saltier water is often where your speckled trout will be but they will certainly feed in the higher fresher if they need.

Long Winter

Most of the time once speckled trout fully enter the harbors, creeks, and rivers that’s where they will remain until spring arrives. Once winter is in full swing we will see many to most bait fish and shrimp exit the rivers and creeks which actually makes fishing for speckled trout a little more interesting. Traditional popping cork and shrimp are not near as effective deep in the winter. It seems the bulk of what hangs in are mullet. Which makes the mullet bait pattern that much better. Winter fishing will continue as long as the fronts keep rolling through and water temps consonantly remain under 65 degrees. The longer days will be the speckled trouts calendar until the weather changes.

Spring

As we are approaching the first day of spring we will normally see more days between cold fronts. How will this affect fishing? The more blue bird days we have the more frustrating days of fishing you can expect. Just like in the fall when you have numerous days of pretty and comfortable weather the tougher it can be to get a speckled trout to bite. Blame the bad fishing on the pretty weather.

That’s a Wrap

Thanks for checking out this post I hope you learned something. To wrap things up I recommend to not sleep in on the dreary weather days because the fish are probably biting the best. The second and third day behind the front is usually a good day to plan to hit the water as well.

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Premier Speckled Trout Fishing Tournament

Wow! Seven successful Winter Classic fishing tournaments are now in the record books. The Winter Classic 2021 dates were January 23rd and 24th. We registered the most participating teams for this years premier speckled trout fishing tournament. The past champions were registered for this years Winter Classic. Which, included the three time and defending champions Captain Bobby Abruscato and Captain Richard Rutland AKA The Wrecking Crew. Two time champions Trevor Wood and I (Captain Patric Garmeson) AKA Uglywood. And the second year champions David Hare and John Howard AKA Team H&H.

The Winter Classic 2021

What better way to bring in a new year than with a bad to the bone fishing contest. Every single year as the host of a tournament I am hopeful for good conditions and good fishing. Somehow, the lucky seventh edition of The Winter Classic has all of the right ingredients. The ingredients I am referring to are the water quality, quality fishing, and decent weather. Leading up to the speckled trout fishing tournament anglers were catching speckled trout throughout the entire Mobile Bay system. River stages were low, water was in some cases too clear.

Top Sponsors

All great things in life are not done alone. Therefore, I bring in some great partners for the premier speckled trout tournament. L&M Marine has been our top sponsor for the event 6 out of 7 years. Owner Michael Maxwell and sales manager Jon Page have been big supporters of me personally, my fishing guide business and The Winter Classic for several years. I encourage anyone in the boat market or are in need of service/repair give L&M Marine a shot at your business. Despite L&M Marine being a top contributor to The Winter Classic we also have a long standing relationship with The First Bank. The relationship with The First Bank is fostered by John Erwin who has helped me with numerous business purchases over the years. Regardless if your banking needs are large or small I highly recommend giving The First Bank a shot at your business.

Supporting Cast

In addition to our top contributors we have a great group of supporters. For instance, Breakline Optics has donated two pair of glasses each year for the past 6 years. Personally, I wear Breakline polarized sunglasses every single day. They are lightweight, comfortable, durable and above all they are the best glasses I have ever worn for sight fishing. The next long standing sponsor of The Winter Classic is Blue Water Graphics. Michelle and her staff have provided decals, signs and banners additionaly everyones favorite the big ass checks! Surprisingly, the turnaround time on most orders are quicker than you might expect. Not only does Blue Water Graphics provide options for decals, signs, banners and big checks they also have options for screen printing and embroidery.

Tournament Management

Anyone that has been fishing tournaments for longer than about five years have experienced slow tournament weigh ins witheven slower results. Therefore, I partnered with Fishing Chaos in 2018 to bring The Winter Classic and my fishing guide service to the digital age. Fishing Chaos provides anglers, fishing guides, and customers looking to hire a fishing guides an incredible online experience. Respectively, Fishing Chaos is becoming household name in the fishing industry. The Winter Classic anglers were able to register online anytime day or night. Each registered angler can instantly see other registered anglers and find all tournament information. Lastly, the tournament results show up instantly on the app and the registered angler receives an emailed receipt of the weigh in results.

Shaping up nicely

First, this will be the only Winter Classic that has had decent weather without a forecasted front coming in on Saturday or Sunday. As I mentioned earlier the bay and most rivers are holding speckled trout due to good water quality. Prior to the start of The Winter Classic I along with most anglers in the field are getting some “prefishing” done. As a tournament director it is really cool to see how much effort the anglers put into trying to cash a check in this event. Trevor and I cover a tremendous amount of water during our two practice days. He and I located 4 groups of fish in 4 different areas that had our hopes high for being in the running. We never located “the right school” but we felt confident in bringing 12-14 pounds to the scale on day one.

Its go Time

According to The Winter Classic rules anglers are allowed to launch,drop, or deploy his or her vessel into the water at 4am and no sooner on each day of the tournament. Why so early? The first year of the tournament we anglers wanted to compete in the tournament and fish in Mississippi waters. Since this is an Alabama based tournament I wanted all anglers to leave and return with in Alabama. The tournament offically begins at 5:00am. In other words, “lines in” begins at 5:00am. Trevor and I launched around 4:30 and took our time to get to our first spot. Our first spot ended up being only a few hundred yards from this years champions. Overall Trevor and I ended day one feeling like we had a shot. We certainly felt like we were in good position to make a run on Sunday.

Weigh in begins

First to weigh in was Billy Howell and Rob Hall AKA “All Jacked Up” with a weight of 9.41. Next to weigh Team S&B. S&B is made up of Steve Lindsey and Brandon McCart, these two showed up in a bass boat and 5 lively speckled trout with a total weight of 15.49# which includes the live fish bonus. The next solid day one weight was brought by team Lost Cause with a total weight of 13.67# which included live fish bonus. Lost Cause is made up of Kyle Mitternight and Rick Tourne. The 11th team to weigh in brought the heaviest fish of the day to the scales. Jason Gamble and Junnie Ellis AKA Double J weighed in a 4.07 speckled trout that was awarded the .25# live fish bonus for a total weight of 4.32.

Day one weigh in continues

The thirteenth team to arrive to the scales is last years second place team Mines Bigger 2 comprised of father and son team Scott and Jamie Stevens. They drop the hammer with a five fish weight which includes live fish bonus of 16.28#. Not to be out done Kevin Chalk and Clay Dean Team “Just fo Sho” drops the heaviest bag of the day on the scales. Therefore, Just fo Sho is now in first place with 16.47#. Richard Rutland and Bobby Abruscato show up with a respectable 14.06# which will keep them in the hunt heading into day two. Trevor and I are the last team to weigh in. We did exactly what we hoped for we are in the hunt with a total weight of 14.21#.

Strategy Time

We have entered into strategy time. This is the time when all teams take in all the information they can from the dock talk to their own recon. Who brought the heavy bags? Where were they? Will their fish hold up? In my opinion the top 13 teams all have a shot at placing and the top 6 teams have legit shots to win this years premier speckled trout fishing tournament. Not to mention that on Sunday teams are fishing for the heavy bag prize sponsored by The Slick Lure and Breakline Optics . Most teams are competing in a couple side pots. The lunker which is awarded to the largest fish of the weekend and the new Average Joe award. In other words many options remain open for most any team.

It sure was fun

Conditions were fair for all anglers. Just need to add the right fish. Trevor and I found a solid creel fish by 7:30ish and then sucked up the rest of the day. Three of the four areas we found fish in practice all disappeared. Our day was toast. Oh well, I had a blast fishing with my friend Trevor for four days. Obviously Trevor and I want to win but the wins are icing on the cake.

Final Day

Its here. The final day. All anglers I assume are pulling out the best cards, best lures and best strategies. The premier speckled trout fishing tournament is in its final day and its time to make it happen. Therefore, the final day is the hold nothing back day. If you found some fish its time to get on them and make them bite.

Lets get this day 2 started

The final day weigh in begins with the team in last place and finishes with the team in first place from day one. All teams must be checked in with weigh master prior to 3pm. The tournament weigh in begins with Doug Tierce and Jay O’brien as team “Resurrection”. Doug and Jay stayed consistent by weighing in at least 1 legal speckled trout each day. The most notable single fish brought to the scales all weekend was the tournament “Lunker” weighed in by Billy Howell and Robb Hall AKA “All Jacked up”. Their fish was alive and weighed 6.57# and was awarded .25# bonus for a total score of 6.82#. Ran Red Fishing which is harder to say than read is Noel Riley and Aaron Atwood maintained a consistent weekend by weighing in 9.6# on day one and 10.74# on day two. Thus having a respectable tournament total of 20.34#.

Getting close

Weighing in after Ran Red fishing is new comers L&M Marine. Jon Page and Bob Nygaard aka L&M Marine dropped the 4th best day two creel on the scale with 13.36# and a two day total of 22.96#. Wrecking Crew did what they do and dropped a very respectable 16.69# to place them securely in 1st place with only four teams left to weigh. Trevor and I were up next and as I mentioned earlier we sucked it up and only brought 8.5# to the scale. Team S&B said they had a tough day but managed a decent weight of 11.19# to put them in 2nd behind Wrecking Crew with a two day total of 26.68. Mines Bigger 2 weighs in next. The crowd drew in tight. Not much “social distancing”.

Last two teams

Scott and son Jamie pull 5 nearly identical live speckled trout and place into the basket. The crowd goes silent. Weighmaster John “the reel man” Burke calls a weight of 16.56# and “Five Alive!” which gave them the heaviest weight of the weekend for a total of 17.81#. This secures Mines Bigger 2 firmly into 1st place with only one team left to weigh in. Kevin Chalk and Clay Dean dropped the hammer on day one with a day one weight of 16.47#. Although they had a strong day one they needed to have an even better day two to take home the championship trophies. Unfortunately, team Just Fo Sho only showed up for Saturday because they fell short on Sunday with a 10.01# day two creel. Drum Roll please…..

Heavy bag, Average Joe and Lunker

The Sunday Heavy Bag sponsored by The Slick Lure and Breakline Optics goes to Team Mines Bigger 2. Sunday total weight of 17.81# for Scott and Jamie Stevens which they caught with slick lures! The brand new side pot category “Average Joe” goes to the the team that buys in and finished closest to the average weight of the tournament. This years “Average Joe” award goes to Ran Red Fishing. The Lunker goes to “All Jacked up!”. Billy Howell and Robb Hall had a few snafu moments during the weekend but with a single cast by Billy of a Mirrodine XL and a perfectly executed net job from Robb they managed to land the largest speckled trout of the weekend and a top 5 finish overall.

Show and Place

Third Place goes to Steve and Brandon team S&B with a total weight of 26.68#. When asked how they got it done Steve said a variety of tactics and he found a new use for a slick lure. The new suggested use of a slick lure is a live well plug when yours magically disappears. Second place goes to the most consistent Winter Classic tournament anglers. Captain Richard Rutland and Captain Bobby Abruscato. The second place Wrecking Crew weighed in a very respectable two day total of 30.75#.

And the Winners are…

There was one team that stood out as being ultra consistent for The Winter Classic 2021 weekend. Only one team that threw The Slick Lure all weekend. One team that found fish and never left them. And only one team that hooked and landed the right fish to put them on top! Congratulations Scott and Jamie Stevens AKA Mines Bigger 2 as the winners of The Winter Classic 2021 with a total weight of 34.09# in the premier speckled trout fishing tournament!

Thank you

Thank you John Burke for being the best weighmaster we could ever ask for! And thank you to all The Winter Classic 2021 participants. Also, thank you to all the sponsors of The 2021 Winter Classic.

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Red Snapper Dates are Set

Each year anglers patiently await the announcement of the Alabama red snapper season. Now, anglers can begin planning his or her red snapper fishing trips. 2020 Alabama red snapper season is set based on the harvest data from previous years. This year in particular was the first year that the state of Alabama was able to choose the management and season without the oversight from NOAA.

State Management

As a fishing guide and an Alabama resident it is very exciting to see Alabama in full control of the red snapper fishery. Therefore, Alabama residence and guests now have a much larger say in how the fishery will be managed in the future. This could lead to longer seasons similar to what we experienced last year. Click here See 2019 season announcement

Alabama Opens Recreational Red Snapper Season on May 22, 2020

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR), Marine Resources Division (MRD) announces Alabama state waters and federal waters will open for red snapper fishing for private anglers on Friday, May 22, 2020. The season will consist of four-day weekends, Friday through Monday. The season is anticipated to last for 35 days and is scheduled to close on Sunday, July 19, 2020.

The season dates only apply to anglers fishing from recreational vessels and state-licensed Alabama commercial party boats that do not hold federal for-hire fishing permits. Anglers fishing from federally-permitted for-hire vessels have their own season that will be announced at a later date by NOAA Fisheries.

Alabama’s 2020 private angler red snapper season is based on a federal quota of 1,122,662 pounds. The season dates may be adjusted based on harvest.

“We have added Mondays to our traditional weekend season in response to many requests from anglers who wanted more weekday access,” said Chris Blankenship, ADCNR Commissioner.  “I am also pleased that the season will begin with the Memorial Day holiday weekend. The passage of the Regional Management Amendment by the Gulf of Mexico Fisheries Management Council, Amendment 50, earlier this year gives Alabama the ability to manage the red snapper season for the maximum benefit and access for our anglers. I am looking forward to a great season.”

Anglers are reminded of the following:

*Weekends are defined as 12:01 a.m. Friday through 11:59 p.m. Monday.

*The daily bag limit is two red snapper per person, per day with a minimum size limit of 16 inches total length.

*Anglers over the age of 16 must have an Alabama saltwater fishing license (resident or nonresident, annual or trip), or any Alabama resident angler 65 or older or lifetime saltwater license holder must have a current saltwater angler registration. The saltwater angler registration is free and available at www.outdooralabama.com/saltwater-fishing/saltwater-angler-registration.

*All anglers; including residents and non-residents 16 years of age and older, including lifetime license holders, disability license holders and those 65 and older, must have a Gulf Reef Fish Endorsement to fish for or possess any reef fish. The Gulf Reef Fish Endorsement can be purchased online at www.outdooralabama.com/license-information.

*Each vessel landing red snapper is required by law to complete one landing report per vessel trip of their harvested red snapper through Snapper Check prior to removing the fish from the boat or the boat with the fish being removed from the water. All red snapper landed in Alabama are required to be reported regardless of the jurisdiction in which they were caught.

*Anglers under the age of 16 are not required to be licensed or have saltwater angler registration, but their catch must be included in the landing report.  

*A landing report may be submitted through Snapper Check in the Outdoor AL mobile app, which is available from the Apple and Android stores or online at www.outdooralabama.com. If you have previously downloaded the Pocket Ranger version of the mobile app, please uninstall it and download the current Outdoor AL app. Paper landing reports and drop boxes are also available at select coastal public boat ramps.

*Participating in a MRD creel survey or being inspected by MRD law enforcement officers is not considered reporting. Anglers must still report their harvest through Snapper Check or fill out a paper report even if encountered by MRD staff.

*Operators of vessels with an Alabama Commercial Party Boat License without federal for-hire permits must abide by the state season and may only fish inside the 9-mile state waters line. An Alabama landing report must be completed before landing red snapper in Alabama in addition to holding a Gulf Reef Fish Endorsement.

*Possession of red snapper in state waters while the Alabama season is closed is prohibited. Anglers fishing under another state’s season must abide by that state’s rules and land fish in that state. Individuals on vessels with red snapper may not transit Alabama state waters while the Alabama season is closed.

Anglers on federally-permitted charter vessels may fish in state waters only during the days the state and federal season is open. They may transit state waters with red snapper during the federal for-hire season on days the private angler season is closed. Owners/operators of federally-permitted charter vessels are required to submit an Alabama red snapper landing report prior to red snapper being landed in Alabama and possess a Gulf Reef Fish Endorsement.

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through four divisions: Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. To learn more about ADCNR, visit www.outdooralabama.com.

Red Snapper Fishing Charters

Now that the Alabama red snapper season is set for 2020 we can now confidently book snapper trips. The cool addition to this years season is the addition of Mondays. What better way to spend a Monday than on the water snatching on some beautiful red snapper.

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Spring Fishing Gulf Shores

Lets face it, we are all ready for winter to be behind us and ready for some warmer weather and most importantly, hungry fish. Regardless of where you are when spring rolls around most fish get more active and more willing to bite when spring arrives. Spring, Summer, fall and winter fishing Gulf Shores is no different. Many local and out of town guests are eager to locate the right Gulf Shores inshore fishing charter to target some of Mobile Bay’s best inshore and nearshore species. Typical years we are targeting sheepshead, redfish, speckled trout and black drum during the spring months. There are several Gulf Shores inshore fishing charters available but only a few will take care of the customer. CCA Alabama has compiled a list of true stewards CLICK HERE for those guides.

Summer Fishing Gulf Shores

Each season the Gulf Shores area will have the option to fish inshore and or nearshore. What does that mean? Inshore fishing is fishing that will take place with in Mobile Bay or its tributaries. Nearshore fishing is any fishing activity south of the Gulf Shores beaches. Nearshore fishing can consist of targeting Snapper, King Mackerel, bonita, Spanish mackerel, and several other nearshore species. Summer fishing Gulf Shores, Alabama can provide some incredible fishing opportunities for anglers both inshore and nearshore.

Fall Fishing Gulf Shores

The fall fishing Gulf Shores has a focus similar to that of spring fishing. As the summer winds down fishing is in the fall is near a mirror image of Gulf Shores Spring Fishing. Although, fall fishing Gulf Shores is not always the same animal. In the fall we usually don’t see the sheepshead bite like in the the spring but both redfish and speckled trout seem to be a good option.

Winter Fishing Gulf Shores

Locating speckled trout, redfish, black drum, and sheepshead in the winter months can be really fun as a fisherman, guide and or angler. In the winter months we usually fish in the Weeks bay, Bon Secour, and Eastern Shore areas in the Winter months. If you are interested in booking a fishing guide or multiple boats for any season of the year click HERE.

The post Gulf Shores inshore Fishing Charter appeared first on Ugly Fishing Charter Fishing.

The Best Speckled Trout Fishing Tournament

The Winter Classic 2020 edition is in the books! Like always we had our share of ugly weather, lock jaw Mobile bay speckled trout, but most importantly eager anglers who all enter with the intent of holding a big check and plaque at the end of the weekend. How is this the best speckled trout fishing tournament? The weigh in process, the rules, and the live fish bonus! Conservation is the focus in this tournament. This year we are supporting the Mobile Bay speckled trout restocking program. Protecting and promoting the fish we enjoy to target and catch is a great way to spend a weekend.

Sixth year

I’m sitting here thinking that its hard to believe we have already completed six of these Winter Classic weekends. So far every year I set the date then stress over what the conditions will be that weekend. Thoughts like will a front hit that weekend, will the water be muddy, will fishing be tough, will guys be able to catch 5 keeper speckled trout, will I have enough teams to make a tournament. Well, so far I can answer, YES! To all of those questions. Yes, the weather will change, yes the water will likely be jacked up, yes some teams will struggle, yes many teams will catch 5 each day, and yes we have enough die hard anglers to commit.

Who’s New?

The Winter Classic 2020 had a few new faces. Noel Riley and his partner Justin Hilderbrand made up team Ran Red Fishing. Another first year team was Get the Net. Team Get the Net is made up of Jamie Stevens and Austin Norton. Father son team Ottomatic comprised of Jim and James Ising were also new to the Winter Classic. Long time BOG anglers Kevin Olmstead and Shane Traylor finally were able to join the Winter Classic line up as TKO. Speaking of BOG, the previous week winners and runner up team split to form team T-N-T. Brothers Josh and Gabe Tidmore teamed up at the last second to enter this years Winter Classic as team T-N-T. Regardless of who wins or loses we hope to supply plenty of live fish toward the new Mobile bay speckled trout restocking program.

The Originals

After six years of the best speckled trout fishing tournament we have four original teams in this years competition. Back to back and defending champions team Wrecking Crew made up of Captain Richard Rutland and Captain Bobby Abruscato was the third team to register. Also, in this years competition the 2016 Winter Classic champions John the “Hammer” Howard and David “Burl” Hare joined forces once again as team H&H. The always competitive, Trifecta comprised of Jeb Mann and Michael Nicholas, are also signed up. The last of the originals is two time winter classic champions Uglywood. Trevor Wood and myself, Captain Patric Garmeson have teamed up every year since the tournaments conception.

Some Old Some New

Every year we pick up some teams from previous years, or old teams break up and new team members are added. Team Bro N Law was the first team to register this year. Bro N Law is comprised of Shon Pipkin and David Skoglund, who are as the name suggests actually brothers in law. Second year team Mines Bigger made up of father son duo Ryan and Scott Stevens. Also, second year team mates Captain Wesley Hallman and Cory Quint adopted team name Little Big Debbie. Another, second year team is team S&B made up of Brandon McCart and Steve Lindsay. Long time participating team Just Fo Sho formed by two grub bouncing anglers, Kevin Chalk and Clay Dean. The 14th team to enter the competition was Jonas Alexander and Erik Nelson who joined forces to form Awe Skeet. The final team to mention is Ol Yella. My dad Marty Garmeson and my long time friend Doug Tierce paired up to become a certain dark horse for this years competition.

Thursday Night

For the last few years Trevor Wood and I have met on Thursday night for some adult beverages, food, and to figure out who will weigh in when at Saturdays weigh in. Trevor has flown in from Chicago each year to specifically be my partner for the winter classic. Since he usually arrives Thursday afternoon we will get together to discuss prefishing strategies and to draw the order in which guys will weigh in on Saturday. This year like last year we met at Yinzers Brew and Grill in Daphne, Alabama. Doug Tierce joined us for dinner this year and was our official name puller for our Facebook Live video.

Prefishing

Many teams had anglers whom had the opportunity to do some prefishing prior to the Winter Classic 2020. I ran into numerous anglers throughout the week as we all seem to either be sand bagging or singing the same tune. Many anglers complained of not even catching five fish or not catching any size. The prefishing was almost a waste for many anglers. Many who all seem to settle in on each of his comfort zones for the best speckled trout fishing tournament. Anglers who worked all week without touching the water until Saturday seem to survive equally as well as some who fished nearly all week. Prefishing for a tournament can be tricky as Captain Bobby Abruscato explains in episode 98 of the Alabama Saltwater Fishing Report.

The water conditions

2019 was a year of high water and crap weather. 2019 finished how it started. Monster local and upstate rains prior to Christmas basically knocked a bunch of good fishing down into the mud and shut down the fish. Each day following the monster rains the local water conditions would slowly improve. Luckily the local rain events following the Christmas rain were all fairly light and very manageable for our water ways. However, upstate rains continued to fill and refill all the major rivers leading to Mobile Bay. The constant flow of fresh muddy water created tough fishing conditions throughout Mobile Bay.

The 2020 Winter Classic Sponsors

L&M Marine

We have been blessed with a really good group of sponsors. The first sponsor to join the Winter Classic 2020 is L&M Marine. L&M Marine has been with us every single year. Since Winter Classic 2016 we have awarded trophies and L&M Marine continues to sponsor those awards. L&M Marine is an industry leader in the sale and service of Yamaha, Mercury, and Suzuki outboard motors. As well as sale and service of some high quality boat brands like Blue Wave, Blazer Bay, Skeeter, Excel, Xpress, and several more great boat brands. Therefore, if you or anyone you know are looking to pick up a new boat, trading up, repowering or simply need some new accessories installed give the folks at L&M Marine a call at 251-937-1380. This year will be the best yet since we are helping with the Mobile Bay speckled trout restocking.

The First Bank

The First is another long standing sponsor of The Winter Classic. Since we added awards in 2016 we introduced the “big checks”. The big checks are presented by The First Bank. In order to have the best speckled trout fishing tournament you need to have the coolest awards. So we added big checks. Besides being sponsors of the Winter Classic 2020, The First is a local bank with a commitment to our community. If you are in the need of a new or refinance mortgage, personal, business or a boat loan give the folks at The First a call at 1-855-257-2265.

Blue Water Graphics

So I mentioned big checks earlier. Blue Water Graphics in Mobile, Alabama has handled printing our big checks, banner and decal needs over the years. As a fishing guide it seems I always need decals or signage made. So I rely on Michelle at Blue Water Graphics to fulfill those needs. Blue Water Graphics has been with us since the beginning. I hope if you need some decals, signage or screen printing done you will give them an opportunity. Call Blue Water Graphics at 251-472-7338 . Thank you Blue Water Graphics for your support of the best speckled trout fishing tournament.

Slick Lure

One of the fastest growing lure brands in the Mobile Bay area is the Slick Lure. The Slick as many locals refer have adopted this lure as a premier big speckled trout catching lure. Since the slick lure is becoming one of the most popular baits for Mobile Bay speckled trout fishing. It only seemed fitting for them to become a sponsor. This is the second year we added the Slick lure package to the awards. This year we added the Slick Lure package as a prize for the team with the heaviest creel on Sunday. If you have any questions about the Sick Lure give them a call at (352)226-3226.

Fishing Chaos

The final player in this tournament is Fishing Chaos. Who or what is Fishing Chaos? Fishing Chaos provides an online platform for various uses in the sport fishing industry. For instance they can host a live or virtual fishing tournament on the web based app. This is how all anglers registered for this years Winter Classic. In addition to anglers registering on this platform they also could see near instantly the standings as teams weighed in. Fishing Chaos has too many features to list so I insist on checking out the site for yourself. https://app.fishingchaos.com You can even book a fishing trip with me, Richard, or Wesley right on the app. At minimum get registered and start logging your catches anywhere in the world!

Day One Conditions

The first day of the best speckled trout fishing tournament weather wasn’t terrible. Easterly winds 10-20 depending on where you were around Mobile Bay. Air temperature started out at 60 degrees with a high of 65. While the water temp for Trevor and I was 66 degrees according to the Raymarine Axiom. Most anglers saw some rain late morning or early afternoon with another round of showers coming after dark. Overall Saturday fishing conditions around Mobile Bay were unseasonably warm with a cold front approaching Sunday morning. Day one tides were above predicted levels and had good movement throughout the day.

The Saturday weigh in

Talking with most anglers the bite seemed to be either okay or non-existent. Taylor Morrow was manning the measuring board to verify each speckled trout measured in the slot. This is the first year of the trout slot and increase of minimum size limit to 15″ and max of 22″. Each team is allowed up to 5 speckled trout with a max of 2 fish allowable to exceed 22″. Our official weighmaster John Burke called for each team to weigh, determined whether fish was alive or dead and called the official weight. This year we were able to utilize the live speckled trout for the new Mobile Bay speckled trout restocking program.

Mobile Bay Speckled trout Restocking

The Claude Peteet Mariculture center in Gulf Shores, Alabama started a new Mobile Bay speckled trout restocking program. The hatchery manager Max Westendorf and other state officials decided to pause the redfish restocking program and kick off a speckled trout restocking program. This program is coming in on the heels of the speckled trout regulation changes both in bag limit and size limit. The number one thing this program needs right now is brood stock or breeding size fish. Well what better use of the fish we bring to the scales than brood stock for a brand new program. So thats what we did with all live fish brought to the scales, we donated them to the hatchery. Each day a hatchery representative was on site with a custom sport trail trailer fitted with one giant tank for all our live speckled trout.

Who’s first to the scales

The first team to the scales on day one was 2016 Winter Classic Champions team H&H. David and John weighed in 5 speckled for a total weight of 8.14# and all fish were determined as being alive. Each live fish is awarded a .25#bonus to the overall total. This brought H&H’s final score to 9.39#. The second team called to the scale was defending Winter Classic champions Wrecking Crew. Richard and Bobby weighed in 5 live speckled trout with an official weight of 11.19# with a 1.25# bonus to bring their total weight to 12.44#. The third team to drop fish on the scale was Ol Yella. Marty and Doug can make a fish eat and they made that happen on day one. Weighing in 4 live and 1 dead fish they had an official weight of 13.24# with a 1# bonus to bring the official day one total to 14.24#. Marty and Doug also weigh in the first respectable size fish with a lunker of 3.68#. At this point Ol Yella is sitting on top of the leader board on day one. Lets see who else shows up with some fish.

Keep them coming

The fourth team to weigh in is team TKO. Which on Saturday was only Shane, his partner Kevin had other obligations but would be there on Sunday. Shane had a good day, 5 lively Mobile Bay speckled trout and one real good one that weighed in at 4.6#. With an official weigh of 12.88# and kick in the 1.25# bonus for a total of 14.13# good enough for second place on day one. The fifth team to carry a bag of speckled trout to scales is Little Big Debbie. Wes and Cory felt okay about the fish they had based on the previous teams scores. Little Big Debbie placed 5 live speckled trout in on the scale for an official weight of 12.27# and a nice kicker fish that weighed 4.14#. After tallying the bonus Wes and Cory walk away with a total of 13.52# good enough to put them in 3rd place. The sixth team to weigh in at the best speckled trout fishing tournament is Get the Net. Jamie and Austin found a respectable trout creel with 4 alive and 1 dead an official weight 11.88# and a 1# bonus to bring their total to 12.88#.

7 through 9

The seventh team to weigh in is Uglywood. Our day one creel consisted of 2 quality fish and 3 we would have loved to have culled. Nonetheless our official weight was 12.50# which was anchored by a 4.45# lunker. Add the 1.25# bonus to bring the total to 13.75# which moves us barely ahead of Little Big Debbie. The next team up was T-N-T, Josh and Gabe Tidmore. They dropped 5 lively speckled trout on the scales for an official weight of 7.7#, add the 1.25# bonus for a total weight of 8.95#. The ninth team to the scales is 2018 third place team Just Fo Sho, Kevin and Clay. Their day one official weight for Just Fo Sho 10.93#. All five fish were determined alive by weighmaster John Burke so they were awarded 1.25#. Just Fo Sho’s total day one weight was 12.18#.

The rest of the field

The final team to bring fish to the scales was Trifecta, Jeb and Micheal. They brought 4 live Mobile Bay speckled trout to the scale for an official weight of 6.44#. Add the 1# bonus and Jeb and Michael are headed into Sunday with 7.44# on the board. As I mentioned earlier, teams either did okay or nothing at all. The remaining 6 teams either choose not to weigh in fish or didn’t have any to weigh in. After speaking with some of the teams who did not weigh it was because many of them swung for the fence hoping to have a big day Saturday. Sunday’s forecast looked challenging to say the least so I don’t fault anyone for trying to hit a home run on Saturday. These winter tournaments can be challenging but its entirely possible to bring 20#-25# to the scales on any giving day. That’s a wrap on day one.

Saturday wrap up

The 2020 Winter Classic fishing tournament is already halfway complete. Saturday is in the books. The field is pretty dang tight from 1st through 7th and really anyone can win this thing 1st through 10th. Ol Yella is sitting 1st 14.24, TKO 2nd 14.13, Uglywood 3rd 13.75, Little Big Debbie 4th 13.52, Get The Net 5th 12.88, Wrecking Crew 6th 12.44, Just Fo Sho 7th 12.18, H&H 8th 9.39, T-N-T 9th 8.95, and Trifecta 10th 7.44. The weigh in site clears out pretty quick. Most of the anglers in the top 10 all seem to gather their things and start thinking about Sunday. One thing I noted while chatting with some of the guys during weigh in was that there was a rush to be the first boat in the water at a boat ramp or two. To my knowledge nobody had to fist fight or anything crazy like that. It was really cool to hear the guys referencing the rules about what time you could launch and fishing distances from one another. I was a proud tournament host to know that the guys were all holding each other accountable on the rules.

Sunday Funday Winter Classic 2020

Fun, some might call it that. The wind was having a ton of fun! I woke up at 3am. The wind sounded like a hurricane outside my window. I always say that if the wind is blowing at my house its gonna be a bumpy ride. I was right I pulled up the wind alert app on my phone and the winds were stroking. 26-30mph depending on which anemometer I was inspecting. Well, Trevor and I had discussed launching on the causeway and running the boat down to Dog River where we planned to fish for Sunday. These plans immediately changed to lets launch on Dog, too rough to run in the dark. The wind was the main weather factor for Sunday. It really wasn’t too cold. Low temp was approximately 50 degrees but the winds obviously made it feel colder. So Sunday was fun for all!

Day 2 Winter Classic Weigh in

The Claude Peteet Mariculture Center truck and trailer is on site when Trevor and I arrive at the scales. We arrived second approximately 15 minutes prior to weigh in beginning. The Winter Classic 2020 rules state that all teams must be checked in with weigh master John Burke by 2:59pm each day and first team up should be ready to weigh no later than 3:05. On Sunday the first to weigh in will be any of the 6 teams that didn’t weigh on Saturday and then move from 10th place towards 1st place. So first up is Awe Skeet.

Lets get it started

Mobile Bay speckled trout can be unforgiving following a cold front. Awe Skeet choose not to weigh in on Saturday but did bring fish on Sunday. Erik and Jonas had a nice 4.22# lunker trout, a total of 3 live trout good for .75# bonus and a total weight of 8.07#. Ran Red Fishing was the second team that didn’t weigh in on Saturday but brought some fish to the scale on Sunday. Noel and Justin brought in an official total weight of 3.72#. Trifecta is the third team to weigh in on Sunday, Jeb and Micheal brought a couple of live trout to add to the speckled trout restocking program. T-N-T, H&H, and Just Fo Sho all fell short of rebounding into contention on Sunday but all brought fish to donate to the Claude Peteet Mariculture Center.

Its getting tight at the top

The best speckled trout fishing tournament is about to come to close. The seventh team to weigh in on day 2 of the Winter Classic is the defending champions, Wrecking Crew. Richard peacocks his way to the scale and pulls out 4 fish, one of which will be the longest and heaviest fish so far in the tournament. Richard and Bobby have a 4 fish stringer 12.67 before the 1# bonus to bring the creel total to 13.67# and the lunker official weight was 5.51# which was rewarded .25# bonus for being alive. Just like that Wrecking crew moved from 6th on Saturday to 1st on Sunday and they have the lunker at 5.76#. At this point Wrecking Crew is first with 26.11 and 6 teams remain to weigh in. Wrecking crew just made everyone tighten up a little bit.

Getting Close

Next team to weigh is Get the Net. Jamie and Austin brought 3 live Mobile bay speckled trout, one lunker a little over 5#. Team Get the Net now sits in second place with 23.99#. Next in line is Little Big Debbie. Cory and Wes learned how extremely important it is to bring your fish in alive. Unfortunately for them they had a really high quality 5.51# speckled trout but was dead on arrival. Wrecking Crew also had a 5.51# speckled trout yet they received the .25# bonus for bringing the fish in alive. The Winter Classic 2020 rules would apply. “18. In the event of a tie for the LUNKER trout. If there is a tie for the largest fish for the weekend the winner will be decided by a coin toss. The weigh master will present a coin and instruct of which side is heads or tails. The anglers will do a best of three rock paper scissors to decide who will call heads or tails.”

Final stretch

Uglywood is up next. Trevor and I landed our 5 Mobile bay speckled trout and all are alive. 9.06# plus 1.25# bonus puts us in 2nd place with a two day total including bonuses 24.06#. TKO is second to last to weigh in. Shane and Kevin fell short of holding one of the top three spots. However, on the positive note they did contribute to the speckled trout restocking program. The last team to weigh in on Sunday is Ol Yella. Marty and Doug had the best day on Saturday and needed 11.88# to remain in the top spot. Unfortunately, for Ol Yella they fell short of placing top 5 with a day two total including bonus with 5.68#.

2020 Winter Classic winners

The 6th edition of The Winter Classic is all over! Third place goes to first timers Get the Net. Jamie and Austin did what it took to hold down a top three position. Second place goes to Uglywood. Trevor and I were happy to place but pissed we didn’t win because we always want the win. First place and for the third year in a row we award Wrecking Crew the Champion trophy and 1st place big check! Not only did the Wrecking Crew take the top spot overall, they also landed the lunker and the Sunday Slick Lure Heavy Bag award! Congrats to Captain Richard Rutland and Captain Bobby Abruscato on one hell of a come back and overall tournament performance! Till next year my friends.

Checking on the Speckled Trout Restocking program

The post Winter Classic 2020 appeared first on Ugly Fishing Charter Fishing.

On March 29, 2019 I landed a fish that put me in the Alabama record books. I can actually say that “I Captain Patric Garmeson hold the current Alabama state record sheepshead.” While this accomplishment seems like it could happen to anyone with a hook in the water I feel as if I prepared for this fish nearly my whole life. Sure there are more prestigious records and some states host an even larger state record but this was a really special catch. Below I quoted my article that was published in Great Days Outdoors Magazine. This article captures a bit of my childhood journey developing as a sheepshead anger right on through to the day of the record breaking catch. I hope you enjoy the story and thanks for checking it out. 🙂

A lifetime of sheepshead fishing, everything I learned and all the experiences, lead me to that faithful moment, the moment I landed the Alabama state record sheepshead.

My dad introduced my brother and I to sheepshead fishing at a young age (exactly when I’m not sure). We would target sheepshead at the causeway fishing bridges both from the bridge and from a boat, Dauphin Island pier, Gulf State Pier, the Dauphin Island bridge and the Daphne pilings. The most common place you found us during the spring migration was the Dauphin Island pier.

Our trip to the pier usually included several stops to scavenge for bait. We would stop and look for fiddler crabs where my dad knew we may find fiddler crabs. We often would stop and throw a cast net and use a dip net in the canals for shrimp especially looking for seed shrimp. Our final bait stops would be the East end and near the D.I. airport looking for hermit crabs. Sometimes we would have to buy live and or dead shrimp but for the most part we would catch our own bait.

Catching sheepshead has been a constant in my life, from the time I was young.

Targeting sheepshead from the pier as a child was always a little difficult due to not being tall enough to lean over the railing while standing on the pier planks. I think due to my brother and I being too small to fish like the adults we had to become really good at locating the fish quickly. Usually before we ever wet a line we would walk the entire pier looking through the rail looking down each and every piling to look for some fish feeding on barnacles. The practice of looking for my fish first is still in play for each charter trip. Sure there were some common areas that held fish better than others but always felt better if we could see some fish.

For the first several years of fishing from the pier it was only a pier with no additional structure. I’m not sure of exactly what happened but at some point they added rip rap along the base of the entire pier. This additional structure really helped to increase the sheepshead numbers each year.

It was around this same time that the gas rigs began to pop up in the gulf near our coastline. I may not be really accurate on my timeline but I remember people blaming the rigs for attracting more sheepshead and other pier species away from the pier.

Each day we found that the fish would always move to different areas of the pier. The water current would usually force us to fish on the down current side in the eddy behind the pilings, which is where we could best present our bait and use the lightest weight possible. We were rarely successful actually catching the fish we would see but the fish we could see were usually accompanied by other out of site fish. All of these tactics I still use today for landing sheepshead, including my Alabama state record sheepshead.

This brings me to one of my most memorable pier based sheepshead catches. The largest sheepshead I ever caught was an over 10 pound sheepshead that I caught on a DOA shrimp. Catching giant fish on a fake shrimp was crazy.

My early accounts of sheepshead fishing bring me to my latest and most memorable sheepshead fishing story, my Alabama state record sheepshead story.

On March 29, 2019 I have a single client fishing trip scheduled. This is a special trip to me because of who my client is. John worked with my wife for many years and chartered me to go catch a big fish. I believe his exact words were “take me out to catch a big fish for me to take a picture with.” The first thing that came to my mind was to go in the Gulf and target bull reds, snapper and sheepshead. Well, the sheepshead bite was really good leading up to this trip so I moved sheepshead fishing to the top of my list.

That day’s trip yielded. not only a state record sheepshead, but some great, picture worthy, bull reds as well.

The morning of our trip the wind was blowing 8-10 miles per hour out of the East Southeast. This was a perfect wind for running from Dauphin Island toward the East of the channel Gulf rigs where I had my most recent success. The ride was nice in my 2400 Pure Bay Bluewave boat across the mouth of Mobile Bay and we slowed on Dixie Bar. I scanned the horizon for bull redfish activity but nothing stood out to me so we proceeded toward the East.

We arrived at the rig we last laid the smack down on the spawning sheepshead. One large boat was already tied to the rig on the downwind side. We approached the upwind side and I deployed the Motorguide xi5 trolling motor to use as our anchoring device. As I maneuvered the boat near the rig my eyes were fixed on my 12″ Raymarine Axiom downvision, sidevison, and chirp sonar screens. I was forced to look for the fish using my electronics on this trip. I like a green mirror, amber tinted sunglass lense, in my case I use Breakline Sunglasses, but today the sun was not up high enough for me to physically see the fish under the water’s surface. I began to mark/identify fish in the 10 to 20 foot  range with downvision and chirp sonar screens. I felt these were likely sheepshead. Once I locked in on an ideal gps location, John chose a fish battling weapon.

All of our weapons are Lews CI400 reels paired on 7′ and 7’6″ Lews Inshore rods. Each of the reels are laced up with American Tackle Company Nano X 20 pound braid with 20 pound Silverthread flourcarbon line as our leader. All the rods were set up basically the same. Braid tied to an approximate 24″ flourcarbon leader using the Alberto knot which is a very slim knot that I trust on every fish we hook. On the end of the leader we use #2 Owner K-hooks and a #3-#7 split shot (lighter the better). Today’s bait was live shrimp from Shirleys Bait and tackle. The perfect gear for landing an Alabama state record sheepshead.

When sheepshead fishing, I look for the smaller shrimp in the livewell. You can horn hook your shrimp, tail hook or my favorite way is to bite the tail fin off and thread the hook up the tail meat of the shrimp and out the belly. A typical cast will be cross or up current/wind about 15 to 25 feet and close the bail. This will allow the bait to swing slowly through the water column and, in this instance, kept us in the zone where I saw the suspected sheepshead on the fish finder. On Johns first cast his rod loaded up with a heavy fish. This first fish broke or pulled the hook, either way it didn’t make it in the boat. Cast after cast John is hooking up and landing some and losing others.

Losing fish on 20 pound line is not uncommon but we get plenty of bites. I usually tell people to expect to lose five fish before landing one because sheepshead have weird shaped toothy mouths and are very strong. We were also fishing near barnacle covered gas rigs which can cut line very easily. Once most anglers get a feel for the bite and how hard sheepshead fight they then begin to land more and more fish.

The cigar may say “relaxed: but the bend on that rod tells the true story.

On this day John asked me to fish alongside of him because he was enjoying being on the water with me. We were hooking fish nearly every cast. Sheepshead fishing was wide open on this day.  John broke a line and I handed him the rod I was using and I took his with the broken leader. This time instead of tying another Owner K-hook I looked on the Purebay console and noticed a hot pink colored 1/4oz Bomber jighead with a white Gulp shrimp that was rigged up the day before. The interesting part of this is that the gulp shrimp looked as good as the day before when I removed it from the Gulp juice container. I tied the jighead Gulp combo on the end of the leader line using a Palomar knot and I casted the lure into the middle of the rig. Approximately 25 feet from where I was standing the lure landed and I closed the bale on the reel. When the line came tight about 15 feet below the surface I felt the line immediately go slack. I wound down and set the hook on a good fish. The fight felt equal to that of about a 7 pound sheepshead. John is hooked up as well and he lands a smaller sheepshead and then asks if he should net my fish. I said no big deal I got it. I worked the fish toward the surface and then I saw a giant sheepshead is on the end of my line. I then changed my tune with John and I asked for his assistance. I was convinced this would be my personal best, and possibly an Alabama state record sheepshead.

Once I got the fish in the boat, I had a genuine feeling that this one could be a record.

Once the fish came to the surface a few times and dives back down, the fish began to lose strength and almost gave up as John slid the net under the fish. He lifted the fish into the boat and laid it on the floor. I took a look at this fish and I told John “Holy S$%&! that might be the State Record!” I then dug into the console for my 50 pound digital scale. I used the hook on the scale to lift the fish from the floor of the boat. The weight immediately exceeded 14 pounds and with every wave the boat went up and down over the weight on the scale bounced from 13 pounds, 8 ounces to 14 pounds, 4 ounces.

I now had a weird surreal moment rush over me. John was way more excited than I was at this point. I focused on the proper photograph layout for what was, in my opinion, the new state record. I had never tested the validity of the digital scale but I knew I had the winner.

Branden Collier had the previous Alabama state record sheepshead of 13 pounds, 9 ounces which he set on April 1, 2015. From the time the report came out about Brandon’s fish I always had that record on my mind. Of all the records in the record book I always felt like sheepshead was an obtainable record for me. I’m not sure why, I just did. People don’t go out and catch 13 pound sheepshead all the time, not really anywhere, so I’m not sure why I thought I could put my name above Branden or even before Branden when the record belonged to Drew Parrish for a 12 pound, 15 ounce fish.

The whole moment was surreal to me. I looked at the fish and knew it was the record. I put the fish on ice. At this point we had not kept any fish.  We were strictly catching, photographing and releasing fish. The fish was huge, unlike anything I had ever laid my eyes on.

Once I placed the fish on ice John and I went back to fishing and we continued catching sheepshead. The wind had increased quite a bit and was up to 13-15mph and the swells and wave action were working the Xi5 trolling motor too hard so we decided to pull the plug on sheepshead fishing. On the way back toward Dauphin Island I navigated in a zig zag fashion to look for redfish activity and the things I look for include birds diving, chirp sonar, slicks, or even copper colored water.

We were catching plenty of sheepshead, with those distinct teeth, that day.

As we near Dixie Bar I see a flock of birds diving in 18 feet of water and I go over to take a look. As I slow down it appears we see some fish on the side vision. So I grab a couple 7′ rods rigged with 1/2oz jig heads and some of my old torn up Slick Lures threaded on the jighead hook. The wind quickly pushes of the area I thought I saw fish. I was about to circle around when I noticed a dark patch of water about 60 yards to the west. The dark patch turned copper in color as we approached and then in the waves we could see the individual fish.

“John there they are, your big fish!” I said. John made a cast that fell short so I launched a jig into the middle of the school. I quickly handed the rod over to John and told him to set the hook! Fish on baby! John got a big bull red, the Dixie Bar specialty. We circled back and caught a few more then headed toward Billy Goat Hole. We arrived at the dock and we were greeted by a friendly Alabama Marine Resouce employee who was conducting fish and anglers surveys. She asked if she could survey John and take a look at our fish. I told her “I’m pretty sure we have the Alabama state record sheepshead.” She got her scale out and weighed the fish.

The official, but not certified hand scale, read 14 pounds exactly exactly. The surrealness is running deep at this point. John thinks there is something wrong with me because I am so calm and emotionless. I assure him I am cool. We load the boat and head to the Marine Resource office on Dauphin Island. John follows me there. I loaded the fish into a tournament bag and packed ice around the fish. We arrive in the front office and the lady at the window asked if we had the state record fish. I said, yes ma’am!

Craig Newton AMRD biologist, whom I’ve known for over a decade met John and I at the door and invited us to the back. The scale was set to hundredths and displayed the weight as 13.90 pounds which was certainly more than the existing record. Craig then switched the display to pounds and ounces. The new displayed numbers were 13 pounds, 15 ounces and 13 pounds, 14 ounces. Craig waited till the scale settled on 13 pounds, 14oz which was officially 5 ounces heavier than Branden’s 2015 record of 13 pounds, 9 ounces.

The record.

Craig had biologist Kevin Anson agree that the fish was a sheepshead and then to assist him in the official length and girth measurements. It’s official but unofficial that I have the new state record sheepshead. The surrealness is fully set in now. John is e

xcited and is asking me what the hell is wrong. Haha I am speechless basically. I carried the fish back to the boat and buried it on ice and then made my official statement through my business Facebook page! The excitement grew with each and every phone call, text message, email and message through Facebook and Instagram. Now I wait on my official paperwork stating I have the Alabama state record sheepshead.

I plan to have the fish skin mounted since I harvested the fish and I had to keep the fish frozen for 30 days per Craig Newton’s recommendations. The record should be safe till at least next year when the sheepshead spawn begins again.

Thanks for reading,

Captain Patric Garmeson

captainpatric@uglyfishing.com

Targeting Sheepshead

If you are interested in targeting a sheepshead of a lifetime and or have a shot to break my current Alabama sheepshead state record. We offer fishing charters 12 months per year and sheepshead can be specifically targeted in both fall and spring months with the biggest fish being landed in the spring. Check out the fish species calendar for Mobile Bay. Typically the best fall fishing is Thanksgiving till Christmas and the best spring time is St. Patricks Day thru Tax Day. Although I provide specific days the bite is really dependent on water temperatures and water quality. I you are interested in booking a guided sheepshead fishing charter than give me a call or shoot me a text at 251-747-1554 Check Availablity

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