Corpus Christi Caller-Times Outdoors by David Sikes

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David Sikes

David Sikes, Caller-Times outdoors writer specializes in hunting and fishing. David's columns are published Thursdays and Sundays. David also compiles a fishing report on Saturdays. He can be reached at sikesd@caller.com.

Thursday, June 7, 2001

Hooking the right fishing guide can be a reeling task

I get a fair number of requests to recommend fishing guides and I'm never sure what to say.
   I've always believed the best endorsements come from trusted friends or acquaintances who've used a particular guide. I'm flattered to be considered either.
   But for me to single out a guide from the ones with whom I've had dealings could be construed as unfair to the others. I'll probably never meet all of the estimated 400 fishing guides in the area.
   I'm happy to provide phone numbers of guides mentioned in the Outdoors column. The field is substantially narrowed if you have a specific request for a fly-fishing guide or a lure-only guide, and I usually can help.
   But you guys should know there's more to a fishing guide than whether he or she has performed well in my presence. I know it's mostly about the fish.
   But personality, ethics, compatibility, business practices and a guide's philosophy on fishing or conservation each could determine whether a guide fits your particular tastes and needs.
   And then there's the legal stuff:

Texas fishing guides are required to be a U.S. Coast Guard-certified captain, with at least a six-pack rating which allows them to operate charter vessels carrying up to six passengers.

This certification requires passing a comprehensive test on safety and navigation, which generally follows a rigorous maritime course.

Each guide also must attend a class on how to administer CPR and possess a guide permit issue by the state.

In addition to these requirements, guides also must enroll in a mandatory random drug-testing program.
   Proof of any of these should be produced upon your request. If the Coast Guard has inspected the guide's boat, the guide probably has an inspection report on board. Federal boat examinations are not mandatory.
   If you have questions about the federal requirements, contact the local U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Office at 888-3162. Questions on state rules can be answered at 289-5566.
   Knowing the essential prerequisites of the trade should help in choosing a professional to fit your needs.
   Search our website (caller.com/outdoors) for a membership list of the Coastal Bend Guides Association. The association polices itself to help make sure members operate within the law.
   Of course, there are many fine area guides who play by the rules, but chose not to belong to the association.
   Seagrass Signs
   Although the state scientific areas in and around Redfish Bay were designated months ago, signs explaining their basis have not been in place.
   That's changed.
   Nearly a dozen large colorful placards have been erected at boat ramps and marinas in and around Port Aransas, Rockport, Aransas Pass and Ingleside. Not only do the signs outline the location of the voluntary no-prop zones and the Lighthouse Lakes Paddling Trails, they explain the importance of protecting seagrass and provide tips on how to fish shallow seagrass beds.
   Get your own map of the no-prop zones and paddling trails at the following locations:

Corpus Christi - Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, Adopt a Wetlands Program (Natural Resources Building); Wind 'n Wave Sports.

Port Aransas - Fisherman's Wharf; South Jetty Newspaper; Woody's Sports Center; Port "A" Outfitters; Island One Marine.

Rockport/Aransas Pass - Key Allegro Marina; Palm Harbor Marina; Seaworthy Marine Supply; Great Outdoors; Hampton's Landing Marina; Fin & Feather Marina.

Outdoors writer David Sikes' column appears Thursdays and Sundays. He can be reached at 886-3616 or by e-mail at sikesd@caller.com

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