Winter, Family and Friends

Winter Fun January 24th, 2012 by Captain Chuck Simpson What do we do when we aren’t on the water hunting big fish? We hunt upland game. I say “we,” because I have ten-year-old son who is obsessed with the outdoors, and if I’m not on company business out on the water, or in the woods, [...]

Parker filling a doe tag and doing his part for conservation. Parker filling a doe tag and doing his part for conservation.
Parker filling a doe tag and doing his part for conservation.

Winter, Family and Friends

January 24th, 2012 Capt. Chuck

Winter Fun
January 24th, 2012
by Captain Chuck Simpson

What do we do when we aren’t on the water hunting big fish? We hunt upland game. I say “we,” because I have ten-year-old son who is obsessed with the outdoors, and if I’m not on company business out on the water, or in the woods, he’s with me. He eats and drinks the outdoors. And, I know for a fact he dreams about the chase, catch, or kill. Too many nights I’ve heard words like redfish, trout, buck, gobbler, duck, and skiff uttered as he sleeps.

Outdoor pursuits are a tradition in my household, especially in the winter months and surrounding the Thanksgiving and Christmas Holidays. Fish still bite, but we can catch them anytime. Hunting camps, warm fires, friends, strong coffee, and frosty mornings are to be shared with family and good friends. The opportunity to do this only occurs during the winter months, so we relish every opportunity we have to gather up our gear and head to the woods.

Parker, my son, is one of the reasons I’ve slowed down on my posts and taken a sabbatical from guiding full-time. Little boys are only little once and they need their dad. Now I’ve firmly planted the seed with Parker, and deer season is winding down, it’s time to get back to the business of fishing and writing. But not before I leave you with a few photos of special memories we made together and with good friends over the last month-or-so.

Parker's first gobbler


Parker filling a doe tag and doing his part for conservation.


I tricked him with a Primos Rubberneck


Mr. Dan, Parker's other hunting buddy- big smiles!


Parker mugging with Mr. Dave and another nice buck

May on the Forgotten Coast-2011

May 24th, 2011 Capt. Chuck

by Captain Chuck Simpson

Well, I have to admit I have been tardy from writing, keeping my website updated, and supplying current fishing reports. This doesn’t mean I haven’t been fishing. It means I have not had enough time to keep up with this end of the deal. I have a job off of the water, which keeps me busy most of the week, so, for now, I am only running charters on the weekends.

Now with that said, we have been wrecking the fish out of St. Marks in eastern Apalachee Bay. Trout and redfish have been extremely plentiful and we’ve had some phenomenal trips. Over this last weekend we decided to spend a little time in some deeper water just along the southern edge of the grass flats, due to the week tides. There are plenty of Spanish mackerel, sea bass, grouper and cobia out in the eight-to-fifteen foot depth range, and they are hungry.

This coming weekend looks like it is going to be a great according to the long range weather forecast. The only drawback: the increased boat traffic out on the water due to the Memorial Day Holiday Weekend.

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Early Spring Fishing, February 18, 2011

February 19th, 2011 Capt. Chuck

Warm Days In Late February Herald The Coming Of Spring
by Captain Chuck Simpson

When I received the call from a long-time fishing buddy on Thursday evening, it didn’t take long for me to decide Friday was a day that needed to be spent on the water. I’ll spare the details of preparation and travel, they’re pretty much the same for all my personal trips: grab my camera, tackle bag, three rods and hit the road.

It’s the 19th of February and the daily forecasts, as far out as I can see, are calling for spring-like conditions: mild nighttime lows in the 40’s and daytime highs in the mid 70’s. Could it be, is spring really here, or is it just a sick joke? Regardless, I have the fever, as of yesterday so did the fish.

I spent yesterday fishing with my buddy Steve and his youngest child Andrew. Steve and I have fished together for many years and are both founding members of the North Florida Gulf Fishing Club. In the past we have spent countless hours together on the water sharing our fishing knowledge with each other. Lately—over the last couple years—it seems our careers and family responsibilities have managed to diminish the amount of time we spend fishing together. Needless to say, yesterday was a treat, especially since most of my time on the water is spent guiding; this fishing trip with a friend was long overdue.

The day’s water temperatures rose along with the sun and incoming tide. 68.5 degrees was the warmest water we found and that was on dark bottom in less than two feet of water. Guess what? The fish were there waiting just like we thought they’d be: hungry and ready to eat a well-placed offering. We did not find any huge fish, but we found plenty of slot-sized fish. Spotted seatrout is closed until March 1st in Northwest Florida, so the day’s mission was strictly catch and release, with a little information gathering for an upcoming tournament thrown in.

Andrew wrestles with a trout, which has inhaled the soft plastic jerk-bait on the other end of his line.

Over the next few weeks as we head into spring the number of fish moving out onto the flats from their winter haunts up in the creeks and rivers will increase. Apalachee Bay will once again be teaming with hungry redfish and trout. This will provide us with premier shallow water fishing for trophy-sized redfish and trout. Most of my fishing will be done in the clear shallow water east of the St. Marks River’s mouth during the month of March. For most of my Apalachee Bay Trips I will be leaving from Shields Marina located in Saint Marks, Florida, on the Saint Marks River.

Do You Know the Proper Etiquette?

February 4th, 2011 Capt. Chuck

At The Boat Ramp
by Captain Chuck Simpson

Fallacy: It is alright to load or unload gear from your boat while parked on a boat ramp. Fact: The intended use of a boat ramp is to launch and retrieve vessels from a body of water. If from reading the aforementioned statements you do not know where this is headed – read on.

The workweek is over and you’re ready to go. The trip towing the boat was a safe one: no flat tires, bad hubs, etc. Time to get on the water. All preparations have been made and the boat is ready to be launched – whenever the bozo in front of you stops loading his wife, dog, cooler, fishing poles and finally launches. Have you ever felt this frustration before? Do you recognize what is wrong with this verbal picture? If you don’t – read on.

Lightning is striking all around and a strong storm is eminent. You are returning to the boat ramp from a fishing adventure. Understandably, there is a crowd waiting to pull their boats from the water and remove themselves from an unpleasant, potentially dangerous situation. You jockey, hold position, and patiently wait your turn to load your boat on the trailer. The gentleman in front of you waits for his buddy to back the trailer down the ramp. He slowly, but methodically, powers his boat onto the trailer, which is now backed into the water. He kills the motor, attaches the winch, gives it a couple of turns and gives the driver of the tow-vehicle a thumbs-up. They pull up and out of the way, so you can retrieve your boat without waiting – then, you do the same. Now do you get the picture?

There is a proper time and place for everything. In areas where rules aren’t posted, etiquette dictates. When it comes to boat ramps a certain etiquette should be followed. Again, simply put: The intended use of a boat ramp is to launch and retrieve vessels from a body of water – this falls under the guides of proper etiquette.

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Fishing Report: Forgotten Coast and Big Bend

January 26th, 2011 Capt. Chuck

Winter fishing along the Forgotten Coast and Big Bend.
by Captain Chuck Simpson

There have been periods this winter when the daytime temperatures here in North Florida would better support activities like sitting in front of the fireplace than saltwater fishing. We have seen our share of twenty-degree mornings with afternoon highs only reaching into the mid-forties. The skies have even opened up a couple of times and spit out a little frozen precipitation. Obviously it hasn’t bothered the fish or some anglers. Reports are still coming in and plenty of fish are still being caught.

Anglers fishing in the deeper holes found throughout the Aucilla, St. Marks, Econfina, Ochlocknee, Apalachicola and Carrabelle Rivers have been finding plenty of trout, especially on the rising tide. Information varies on what the bait of choice is, but if I could only select one, I would choose a large suspending stick-bait. Work the bait slowly through the lower third of the water column. The larger fish—upper slot and over—will most likely be suspended near the bottom and only interested in a big meal. When they are cold they do not like to expend much energy to eat, unless it is worth it. Bigger baits equal larger fish, especially this time of year. Live shrimp and smaller plastic baits will many times result in a larger number of fish being caught, but not always quality fish. If we do have a few warm days in a row, don’t be afraid to break out a top-water plug, you might be surprised with the results.

Redfish are a little hardier than trout and the cold temperatures don’t seem to bother them as much. Redfish have been showing up along with the trout in Area Rivers. Most of the fish have been on the small size and aren’t falling within the slot, but rest assured there are plenty of slot-sized fish out there. To find the larger fish check out some of the shallow, submerged, mud and shell areas that are found along the edges of the deeper channels in the creeks and rivers. During the day when the temperature raises larger fish will move into these areas to feed. If you can find a warm afternoon with a rising tide there is a good chance you will experience some phenomenal fishing. A lead-head jig with a soft plastic body (like a D.O.A. C.A.L. shad) worked slowly along the bottom can be a very effective choice of bait during the winter months. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different body colors. When you locate one fish, more often than not there will be plenty more.

Hopefully we have reached mid-winter and the worst is behind us. The forecast for the next week shows a warming trend, which we are definitely in need of. Fishing during the upcoming month of February should be great as we begin to work our way towards spring. Remember that speckled trout is closed to take for the whole month of February here in North Florida. Always be sure to consult the current rules and regulations pertaining to saltwater fishing before heading out for a day of fishing. Current rules and regulations http://myfwc.com/RULESANDREGS/SaltwaterRules_index.htm

Got Compass? 360 Degrees of Knowledge

January 17th, 2011 Capt. Chuck

by Captain Chuck Simpson

I remember my early years on the water. The days before I considered purchasing a GPS to use for navigational purposes on my inshore fishing adventures. With the aid of a chart and various landmarks – a compass was how I navigated. I always new my present location, or at the least was orientated to my surroundings on the water. I relied so much on my compass and continue to, that I always carried a spare hand-held on my boat and still do to this day. Also, I believe in keeping a chart of the waters I am fishing or navigating on hand.



It amazes me the answers I hear, when I ask what the most important piece of equipment on a boat is, aside from safety equipment. Rods, tackle boxes, sunscreen, cameras and many other accessories generally fill the vernacular of the responses I receive. Rarely ever do I hear someone respond with “my compass.”



Now, in this modern age of technology, it seems the masses depend on electronic devices to take them away from the dock and bring them back. I hear it all the time, “My GPS went out and until it comes back from being repaired, I’m down.” I understand this if you are bottom-fishing miles offshore on some ledge or small piece of structure, or in transit to some distant location, but just getting out to do a little trolling shouldn’t be a problem. And, if you are fishing in sight of land there is no reason not to go, especially if you have a compass, which every boat should. Sure a GPS is a great addition to the boat and a big plus for putting you right on the money. With all the electronic cartography available, a GPS is a great aid when navigating unfamiliar waters or marking a point of interest. But, what if your GPS dies on the water? How are you going to return home? What if the fog rolls in and cuts your visibility? There are too many scenarios, which could occur to rely solely on an electrical device. A compass should be standard equipment included on every boat sent from the factory to the dealer, or at a minimal, from the dealer to the consumer.



trust my compass and enjoy having a GPS. I will leave the hill without my GPS functioning properly, but not without a compass. A good compass doesn’t lie (don’t argue with it), won’t stop working and won’t send you off in the wrong direction. A compass is a no-fail, time-proven method of navigating. And, at a glance, can provide you with 360-degrees of no-fail navigational knowledge – so don’t leave the hill without it.

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Hall Em In Lures-Handcrafting Memories

January 15th, 2011 Capt. Chuck

by Captain Chuck Simpson

Are you looking for a plug for a certain presentation: walking the dog, popping, darting—surface or subsurface? Just maybe you’re a connoisseur of quality tackle. Well if you are, then Hall Em In Lures’ has the plugs for your tackle box, and believe me, they work as good as they look.

When first handed these plugs, I was tempted to find a display location and place them for admiration only, but had I done this I would have been missing out. Although each lure is presentation quality and truly a work of art, these plugs are hardcore, serious fish-catching equipment.

Hall Em In Lures are handcrafted from specially selected blocks of wood, which posses’ different densities and variations, thus allowing them to have a very unique action, unlike mass-produced plastic plugs. Only the finest hooks and hardware are used in during assembly. This type of quality and craftsmanship ensures you and the fish will be enjoy these high quality plugs for years to come.

For more information about Hall Em In Lures full line of plugs visit: www.halleminlures.com

iNox MX3 Lubrication, Review

January 13th, 2011 Capt. Chuck

by Captain Chuck Simpson

Making a living in the outdoor industry demands that my equipment function properly and for this to happen, it must be properly maintained – I cannot afford malfunctions. The different pieces of equipment I use for work and play have moving parts, which means they need to be routinely lubricated. A good quality lubrication product will not only aid in keeping moving parts working smoothly, but will also serve as a protectant against many of the harsh elements found in outdoor environments: salt, sand, dirt, moisture, etc. Let’s face it; reliable gear is expensive, so why not use a product that will prolong the life of your equipment, one that will drastically reduce wear, the possibility of down time, and expensive repairs?

After receiving a sample over a year ago, I have been using the inox MX3 aerosol lubricant extensively and I am convinced it is one of the best lubricants and protectants on the market – especially for fishermen and outdoorsmen. Not only is MX3 a lubricant and protectant, but it also displaces water and is a penetrant. I can spray my reels lightly after washing them down from a day’s fishing trip and rest on the confidence they will be protected from the elements and function properly the next time I pick them up. I have even started coating the inside of the plastic tackle boxes where I store my expensive plugs, spoons, and hooks to combat rust and oxidation. It doesn’t affect the finish on my lures, nor does it have a negative effect on a fish’s olfactory senses.

The unique formula used in the inox MX3 lubricant contains no silicon, acid or acid-forming ingredients and is not petroleum-based. It will not harm metal points, surfaces, plastics, paints, enamels or finishes, fiberglass, neoprene seals, or degrade the quality of braid and monofilament fishing lines. MX3 is nonconductive and non-static so it can be used on electrical connections and will not attract foreign particles. It will not dry out, become gooey, gum up or wash off. In addition, inox MX3 aerosol is ozone-safe, contains no CFCs, and is environmentally friendly, though its makers recommend against its use on natural rubber products. MX3 also is available in non-aerosol applicators.

As of now, fishing tackle isn’t the only thing I’m using the inox lube on: my guns, bow, mountain bike, door hinges, locks, skiff (no worry of stain) and just about anything else you can imagine – I am totally impressed. With inox I don’t have to apply nearly as much as with other brands, it does a far superior job, and a little goes a very long way. What more could I ask for?

For more information regarding the extensive inox supreme lubrication product line and to find a dealer near you, I highly recommend visiting www.inoxlube.com

Spotted Seatrout

Fall 2010, Resurgence of the Rock Grass

January 10th, 2011 Capt. Chuck

by Captain Chuck Simpson

Fall of 2010 provided some of the best inshore fishing I’ve seen in Apalachee Bay in a long time. We caught and released numerous large trout (like the one pictured) and kept a few smaller ones for the table. Inshore fishing was absolutely off the chain. I attribute much of our success to the resurgence of rock grass in the eastern end of the bay.

Rock grass, as the locals call it, is actually a type of bottom-attached Sargasso found growing in shallow, warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. More importantly, it creates structure that holds a large number of fish. During normal years rock grass can be found throughout the shallow areas of the bay. These areas provide the perfect location to target a variety of saltwater fish. Smaller and larger fish congregate around this subsurface growth that can often cover large expanses, many times reaching throughout the water column from bottom-to-top.

In July of 2005 Hurricane Dennis created a massive tidal surge, which flooded the estuarine rivers, marshes, and low-lying coastal areas along the Forgotten Coast and Big Bend. The result of the unexpected massive surge was devastating to the rock grass, which grows in the bay—it broke the fields of rock grass up and washed them away.

Now, five years later, the rock grass is back thicker than ever, and I am sure going into the Spring of 2011 as the water temperature begins to rise in the bay, the fishing will be just as phenomenal as it was in the fall.

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Riverside Cafe, St. Marks, Florida

January 10th, 2011 Capt. Chuck

by Captain Chuck Simpson

Overlooking the St. Marks River just above its confluence with the Wakulla River is Riverside Café. Since its establishment in 1995, it’s been known as a place “where the locals hang.” Riverside Cafe serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with side dishes of riverside atmosphere and local color to a host of regular patrons and randomly visiting diners.

A well-rounded menu with plenty of choices provides something for everyone. And, of course, there are plenty of seafood selections. The “Blackened Grouper Sandwich” and the “Other Guy’s Chicken Sandwich” are two of my personal favorites. Appetizer selections from the menu offer a light snack or a good opener. If you happen to be returning from a day of fishing and don’t want to fire up the cooker at home, bring your cleaned catch by and they will be happy to prepare it for you.

Food is not the only draw to this eatery. Riverside is the perfect place to take a load off the feet and mind. Watch as the boats make their way to and from the gulf. Catch an occasional glimpse of a passing manatee or enjoy the evening as it fades to dark. The entertainment is ever changing; on weekends live music is played, so if you are inclined, sit back and enjoy the beat.

Riverside’s proprietor, Stan West, has been successful in weathering the blows dealt by hurricane storm-surges (the most recent being Hurricane Dennis in 2005) and their economic impact over the last 15 years. If there’s any doubt, just look at the marks on the posts in restaurant that denote high water levels.

Stan still continues to provide a welcome, relaxing, family-friendly atmosphere for those arriving by boat or land. Next time you are in North Florida and need a little break from the norm, travel south through Wakulla County on highway 363 until the road dead-ends, look straight ahead and you will see 69 Riverside Dr. Riverside Cafe – where the locals hang.

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