Some fishing options for the shore-bound angler
With the price of fuel sky high these days and boat engines being notorious gas guzzlers, I'm sure many of you are looking to find a way to enjoy a day of angling without burning a hole in your pocket.
Thankfully, we live in a place at a time of year where there are plenty of options for the shore-bound angler. Some of these options include world-class gamefish as well.
Manatee County is home to the 'World's Longest Fishing Pier' — the remains of the south end of the old Skyway span.
This is a venue where folks can drive their vehicle right to their spot and literally tailgate while pursuing some of the sportiest and finest eating fish we have available 24/7. All this without spending hundreds gassing up a boat.
Late spring through the fall months are also some of the most productive times to fish the miles and miles of beaches of the Suncoast. Our beaches can be accessed at many public access points and Florida law allows the public to use and traverse the beaches seaward of the mean high water mark. This is usually the vegetation line. There are places where erosion problems would not make this possible, so using good sense is imperative.
When fishing the beaches, plan your trips early or late, avoid crowds and bathers and be courteous with the folks who live there. Bring in a minimum of gear and leave with what you brought.
Kayakers and waders have had a leg up on this high-fuel situation way ahead of time and I wouldn't be surprised to see a lot more folks getting into the program.
John Stevely dies at 72
It is with a great deal of regret to note the passing of another giant on our local marine scene far too soon at 72 . John Stevely served as the Manatee County Marine Extension/Florida Sea Grant Agent for years before his recent retirement.
John served this area far beyond his job description by working with numerous environmental/conservation-oriented groups and non-profits. John was a friend and colleague and will be missed. Ave atque vale.
This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Some fishing options for the shore-bound angler
