2011 Fishing Season In Review

I haven't written here in awhile, as I have spent most of my time on YakAngler.com and JaxKayakFishing.com.  So...I figured it was about time.  This past year has been a great year of accomplishments for me.  I started fishing the saltwater creeks here in Jacksonville, FL at the beginning of the year after getting a kayak last Christmas.  After surfing the internet, and talking with other kayak anglers I was able to pick out some locations, learn the areas, and start catching quality fish.  Before this year, all I had done was freshwater bass fishing.
I started fishing simple places to get my skills with the kayak down.  I fished live/dead bait only...never tried artificials.  Once comfortable with everything, I started taking some artificials out and figuring out which ones worked for me, and what I liked best.  I have now weened myself completely off using bait, and only using artis.  My go to lures have become DOA CALs in golden bream, SaltWater Assassin Paddle Tails and Curly Tails in Chicken on a Chain, and Strike King Redfish Magic Glass Minnows in white or chartreuse/glow.  For hook and jigheads, I only use Slayer Inc products...they are made locally, and are superior to anything I've ever used.  Seaguar Fluorocarbon leader is a must for the oyster beds and toothy fish.
I started out slow with small fish, and not very many, and I fished for very long hours.  After honing my skills, learning the areas, and figuring out what worked and what didn't, the quality, quantity, and variety of fish started coming aboard.  I mainly target redfish, trout, flounder, and black drum.  In July, I caught my personal best redfish at 32 and a flounder at 20".  I just recently started catching the black drum.  My last trip out produced about 10, and 8 were keepers...I threw them all back though.  I am still on the lookout for that big gator trout.
So...moral of my story...fishing is fun and exciting, but you have to be patient.  It takes time on the water to get the fish.  Don't give up.  Go out with people who are willing to show you tips and tricks, and maybe even a spot or two