Out of the mouth of Babes!
Capt. Charles Damiens
May 15, 2009
Gulfport - Saltwater Fishing Report
"This is the Bestest Day Ever" blares out Hayden as we stroll down the southern shore of Dear Island. Though it may not be grammatically correct, it was one of those quotas from a 5-year-old that hit the nail on the head.
What do you mean we are going to throw it back
Though the Reds are running around Ship Island and the Large Specks are feeding on Croaker in the same area, this day wasn't a charter. I was taking a friend out and he was building some bonding time with his two boys. What kid doesn't enjoy a boat ride! In fact most adults do as well! We started the morning at the launch and made a long run to our first fishing destination. Once we set anchor the lines were baited and the fishing commenced! The water was very muddy and the local Catfish population thought that this was the location to be. We were catching Catfish left and right. Normally it would be time to leave, but not when there are two 5-year-olds in the boat. As far as they were concerned these could have been trophy trout or reds. The only problem they had was why we were throwing them back. But that really didn't bother them since it was one fish after another and at that age it is about the catching not about the species. Funny how our perspectives change over the years, and we seem to really miss out in the simplicity of things that only a 5-year-old can point out so easily. Things began to settle down and I decided that it was time to go before the boys had a chance to be bored.
Island Explorers
Off for another boat ride! Passing under the Hwy 90 Bridge, Hayden and Jonathan kept pointing over towards Deer Island. As we made the turn toward "Casino Row" they both decided to act like Pirates and started pointing and yelling "Land HO!" We informed the two would be pirates that Deer Island was where we were actually heading. They both squealed with excitement, then look at us in disbelief and said "no way your kidding us". As the boat slowly made it to shore the pair were fit to be tied with anticipation. They were both given quick instructions in trying to stay together as a group and watch where you are stepping as we made our way across the Island. They were both told that any Gold they found would be subject to the rule of thirds. (A third for the Captain, a third for the Boat, and a third for the Crew). There wasn't much they didn't explore and very few items that they didn't find interesting enough to at least turn over and see if anything was living under it. Though Deer Island is relatively close to shore, most kids could care less. It is an Island! They arrived by Boat! And they were allowed to be kids and Explore! Once we made it back to the boat and their bounty was stored, I asked them where the gold was. And, they actually told me it was the Captains fault that they didn't find any gold. I guess, I kind of have to agree with them.
The Crew (Jonathan, Hayden, Jonathan)
Too many time we take kids out fishing and try to mold the day into what we want it to be instead of looking at it from the age perspective of the kids we are taking along. It is important to have multiple options when taking kids along. You must be flexible in order to prevent boredom. Remember the goal is to have them want to come back. While walking down the beach we both heard Hayden tell Jonathan "This is the Bestest Day Ever", and I think he was right, and they will remember it for a long time.
Future Pro Fisherman
If you have the chance take a kid fishing.
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