Fishing the Dreamboat
When two full-time fishing guides get together on a day with no clients, it’s an opportunity to try something new without feeling the pressure to deliver results for a paying customer.
“When people step on my boat, I want to get them on fish as soon as possible so it doesn’t leave much wiggle room for experimentation, searching and discovering new spots,” says Justin.
But this adventure, the inaugural fishing trip on Justin’s new 27 Conch dreamboat with longtime friend Capt. Kevin Lolley on board, gives both seasoned anglers a chance to hone their skills and gain even more experience to share with paying customers.
The boat’s state-of-the-art electronics locate what appears to be live natural bottom, a rarity in the desert-like expanse of the Gulf of Mexico off Panama City Beach. But after only minor success, the pair heads for a wreck that Capt. Leake has never fished before. Fortunately, the thrill of the hunt excites these anglers almost as much as the catch.
“The anticipation of the bite and the unknown of what’s going to hit is what really keeps it going for me,” says Capt. Lolley.
Plan B pays big dividends as some nice catches of mangrove snapper, scamp grouper and almaco jacks end up in the cooler o the way to the dinner table.
Also, we take to the air with the Beach Mosquito Control District to learn how the public health, safety and welfare of residents and visitors are protected from these pesky pests.