men anywhere to be found . The view was simply gorgeous . I was finally able to stretch out and explore the boat and my fishing companions for the day . Captain Mike began “ pre-fishing ” to see what was biting in the “ pocket ” near the boat , and
“ We caught our limits of trout in no time , slowly circling around that one grassy patch and finding new “ pockets ” in which the fish were waiting . We also caught one bull red , about 27lbs . What an incredible day on the water !”
Captain Kent started preparing my rod . I would be using fresh shrimp under a cork , while Captain Mike was using lemon pepper Deadly Dudley on the bottom . There ’ s a science behind the two levels of fishing within the same pocket . Captain Mike says the dual approach attracts fish quickly while helping him gauge where they are and what they ’ re biting that day .
I found Captain Kent knowledgeable , patient , and kind as he helped me cast into the pocket in the most advantageous spots . Captain Mike coached me with technique , especially with reeling in my heavier catches , which began just moments after we stopped the boat , and didn ’ t end until we were ready to leave . Every time I caught a hefty 3-4lb speckled trout while his line remained still , he accused me of “ picking his pocket ,” which I thought was hilarious . He explained that if he chooses a pocket and begins fishing it , the other person is essentially catching HIS fish . He clarified that all the ones with spots were technically his , and I honestly spent more time laughing at his and Captain Kent ’ s sense of humor than I have in a very long time .
We caught our limits of trout in no time , slowly circling around that one grassy patch and finding new “ pockets ” in which the fish were waiting . We also caught one bull red , about 27lbs . What an incredible day on the water ! At one point , I actually forgot I was a writer and stopped taking mental notes , completely caught up in the excitement of catching big fish , laughing among good friends , and being in the most pristine environment nature has to offer in the south .
As we prepared the boat for the long journey back , I asked Captain Mike how he became so sought after ( he now has dozens of partners who take overflow charters for him ), and he explained a little of his Captain ’ s philosophy . “ It ’ s about having a good time on the boat . Every single charter is a walking billboard for the business . So making sure my customers are happy , having a good time , connecting with each other and with nature , and catching fish in the process are my top priorities .” So he trains his new partners to respect the customers and the profession , “ because essentially , every charter , even those that aren ’ t connected to Angling Adventures of Louisiana , brings home with them an experience of Louisiana that I hope to be favorable for everyone in the in-
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