Sorpresa señor non una pe a, risco pescar
(Surprise mister not a rockfish)
The forecast stated that the winds will be out of the east at 15-20 mph…great. I was looking forward to see how my new 22’ CC Twin Vee Power Catamaran would handle the Chesapeake Bay while crossing from the western shore to the eastern shore. I launched on the Patapsco River at the Hanover Street Ramps Sunday, 9/5/04, at 11:00 AM.
The Chesapeake Bay was rough when I hit the cutoff angle where the Brewerton Channel Eastern Extension and Craighill channels meet. She was throwing 3, 4, and a occasional 5 foot swells as I slowed down to meet the water conditions. I only had to cross half the Bay because I sighted some birds working the water about 1 mile northeast. When I arrived my fish finder lit up.
I was catching bluefish in the 3 to 5 pound class on almost every cast for the next hour. On one cast I hooked, what seemed to be a large rockfish (striped bass) on a 4" Salt Water Assassin in Salt & Pepper Silver Phantom / Chart. Tail, but was surprised when I netted my first Spanish Mackerel of this year.
I wasn't surprised when my boat supplied me with a smooth, dry ride on these rough seas. As usual no drift sock was needed to slow the drift down. It's good to know you own a craft that can take you out and back safely under rough water conditions.
All fish were caught on light spinning tackle with lures.
Fishing Tip: Keep your radio on to monitor weather conditions throughout your entire fishing trip. Do not, under any condition, take your boat out in waters that you considered dangerous.
Tight Lines,
Capt. Tom Hughes