Redfish "Rookie"

Harry with RedfishMy wife and I moved from Wilmington, Delaware to San Antonio, Texas, June 21, 2006. I had been fly-fishing the past several years for trout in the streams of Delaware and Pennsylvania. My question now was, “Where do I fly fish in Texas?”

An internet search identified the Alamo club and I joined this fine group in August. After attending several meetings I began to realize that many of the members fished for Redfish at the coast. Having no idea what was involved, I asked questions, listened to suggestions, and began to understand at least some of the basics.

First off there was the need for the right equipment. An eight weight rod was recommended. So, a short time later I would hear my wife comment, “Building another rod?” “Yes” I replied, “I need it to go fishing for Redfish.”

Bruce Young, at the Tackle Box, recommended I talk to Fred Lynch who guides out of Corpus Christi. Fred agreed to take me fishing for “Reds” in early May. The night before we were to leave, Fred called and said, “Sorry man, but I would be stealing your money if we go tomorrow. There are thirty mile an hour winds. Let’s wait until later in the year.” I agreed and thanked him.

In late October I called Fred to reschedule, and we agreed on October 30. The weather forecast was for clear skies and light winds. I left San Antonio the day before, stayed in a motel and met Fred at 6 am. Fred introduced me to a friend of his, Capt. Randy Best, who also guides, mostly off shore out of Corpus. “Capt. Randy will be your spotter,” Fred said. “He will help you see the fish so you can cast to them.”

I guess after talking to me, Fred knew I was a rookie, and knew I would need plenty of help. “We’re going to hunt them fish,” Fred said, “and when we find them, kapow!”

After getting some ice and something for lunch, we were on our way. We launched the boat at the National Park and headed south in total darkness. I was chilled by the early morning boat ride through unfamiliar water, but warmed with confidence that this Capt. knew where he was going, and that I would soon catch my first redfish. For a good hour we traveled past fishing shacks, houses, and floating fish huts. We arrived at our destination just as the sun began to rise.

The only sound we could hear was the surf in the Gulf, a long way off and over the dunes. There were no other boats, in sight. “I like people,” Fred told me, “but not where I fish.”

It only took about ten minutes before Fred would say, “There’s one at ten - and another at twelve - and another at eight”. We were in Redfish country! Since my casting ability, even in just slight wind, is very limited, I did not catch every fish I should have. Nevertheless, it was a fantastic day! I caught five Redfish; three of which were oversize. All the fish were caught on a fly I tied myself, a rod I built myself, and with the help of a great guide, Fred Lynch, and spotter Capt Randy Best.

I returned home, and after telling my wife what a great time I had, I retired only to still hear Fred saying, “good cast, you’re doing great, great throw, there’s one at ten o’clock, in the slick, coming right for us, let’er go now!”

Life doesn’t get any better than this. Until next time!