BIGFISH Charters

The 62' SponsorShip launches with a BIG SPLASH

2011-03-11T14:42:00.000-08:00

After three years of rebuilding, Team BIGFISH and the folks at SeaBrook Harbor launched the 62' SponsorShip just before Mardi Gras.

just in time to host the wedding of Johnette and Fred.

She still has a fair amount of finishing work on the inside,

but she sailed flawlessly and then made an overnight trip on Alligator point in Lake Borgne.

The launch, the wedding, and the overnight trip were a lot of fun. Special thanks to the gang over at SeaBrook Harbor, we couldn't have done it without them.

Looking a LOT Better!

2011-01-12T23:17:00.000-08:00

I still have a fair amount of finishing work to do, but the 62' "SponsorShip"
is coming along nicely. We are polishing up the exterior, running a few more wires, closing her up so we can start on the insides. The doors are even under construction by Team BIGFISH's naval architect, maritime counsel, and finish carpenter Justin Simpson. Even our good friends at SeaBrook seem to feel like we over achieved on the resurrection, I mean renovation of this hull.

Dropping Her in For the First Time

Finding Her Water Line

Danica & CT at Launching

She Passed all Tests, Now let's Finish Her Up!

She will sail soon

2010-10-30T15:46:00.000-07:00

Lot still to complete the BIGFISH 62. But a full time crew is working Mon thru Fri.

Wed 6/2/10 Oil Patrol

2010-06-02T17:11:00.000-07:00

Artful weather dodging today. We started with a large squall in our path.

To the left of USCG David Tynch's head you can see a water spout beginning to form.

For this time of year, the spout was impressive. Thick and able to make it all the way down.

Once the weather kicked we battened down cameras and hatches and went to work. We made the farthest travel outside of Chandeleur. We ran from Hopedale, to about 25 miles south of Biloxi and Gautier Mississippi. We turned South and we headed for Venice. The seas were solid 3 foot and sloppy. Even the 30 foot Twin Vee was getting bounced, but I couldn't imagine making the run in anything else.

We got as far as Gossier and a storm over the river started working our way. We made the turn back into the sound and headed back to Hopedale. No oil, no oiled birds. One shrimper working in the boom program did get injured today. I believe his name is Mr. Charles Robin. His fingers were caught in a winch I understand. Our prayers and best wishes to him and his family.

Back at it again tomorrow (Thursday). If I am not returning your calls promptly, please forgive and be patient. Depending on what time I get in, and what has to be done for maintenance and preparation, and making time for my family, I am limited in how much time I can spent on the phone and computer. if I am slacking in my professional and social obligations I hope you will do your best to understand.

Wed 6/1/10 Oil Patrol

2010-06-02T16:56:00.000-07:00

Tuesday - The mission was to run the south end of Chandeleur on the outside. We made our way two thirds up to find the boat covering the inside was also (on their own) covering some of the north outside end of the island. We move out further and go south and then work to cover the open area of Breton Sound. This is where a lot of the patches have worked inshore. We see nothing. On the way in we are redirected to Brush Island, an area where oil clean up is taking place on the shore. With that done, we head in. Upon hitting the dock we are met by the port director "Marty" who says we need to run back to the islands for a radio tech to install an antenna. 279 Miles according to the GPS.

Early Week 5/29 Oil Patrol

2010-06-02T16:42:00.000-07:00

The operation is simple, but not very well publicized. I am part of a small group of recon boats. Along with the USCG, we scour the area for the stray oil and dispersant. The planes and helicopters can get the big stuff, but you have to be one the water to find the smaller patches (not really that small). These patches will break off from the fingers of oil and pop up in unexpected places. When we find them, shrimp boats with oil skimming equipment are sent to catch it before it hits any land. At the same time, Oyster boats and smaller support boats are putting up plastic and absorbent oil boom to protect the land.

These Pelicans, Egret, and Roseate Spoonbill nest behind the protective boom and our watchful eyes.

Unfortunately, you can't stop the Pelicans from feeding. Very few days are free from oiled Pelicans on the rock jetties of the MRGO. Usually, I only see one to three and Wildlife officials are getting better at catching them to be cleaned.

Ironlically, we came across an amazing rainbow stretching across the horizon. The weather was deteriorating, but we were in protected water by then and on our way home.

Oil Spill Duty May 28, 2010

2010-05-28T16:44:00.000-07:00

Today started like most, at least since the spill occurred and I began working with St. Bernard parish as a boat captain. We arrive (5:30 am), check in (6:00 am) , get a safety briefing (6:30 am), and then usually spend quite a bit of time waiting for the various agencies to meet, coordinate, and issue missions, radios, and other equipment for the day. I was again paired with Coast Guard reservist. Today was Cullen and Natalie. Nice people and professional. We started for Brush Island, this is an island we have visited several times and seen oil on the shore and dead birds with oil.

On the way orders changed to head for Comfort Island to inspect Boom surrounding the island. Upon arrival we found quite a bit out of place. A squall had apparently moved it. We made a report and then headed East into Breton Sound to look for signs of oil or dispersant. Lots of Dolphins around us.

There is a project underway to drive pilings from the Louisiana/Miss. border all the way across the Louisiana marsh. The piling driver is making great time as we watch him move across Breton Sound one piling at a time.
These pilings are being fitted with 41 inch Navy boom. They will serve as a primary defense should the barrier island rebuild take too much time or not come to fruition.

Shrimp boats stand by in Breton Sound draped with skimming boom instead of nets. Yesterday they were mobilized and later came into the MRGO for what officials call "Bulk/Outside Decontamination". Once cleaned they were re-stationed as sentinels watching for any oil trying to sneak into our marshes

On the way in we made a pass by the rock jetties of the MRGO. I have been passing each day to look for oiled birds. I have found several the past few days. Today there were two.

Each day is different. Some days, finding new signs of the spill is difficult. Other days the difficulty comes in NOT finding something related to this growing problem.

Right now there is something in the MRGO that is not explained. Deep under the surface are pockets of very dark or stained water. Samples have been taken and we have dropped buckets down, but no one can explain what the stuff is. It looks like particles in the water, but they are definitely not something you normally see in the channel.

Back at it tomorrow. Will post as often as I can.

Great Day with Mall Security

2010-04-15T18:31:00.001-07:00

Rich, Mike, Jason,and Gene from Lakeside called for a day of Redfishing. The plan was to hit some big bulls and then pick up some "Grillable" Reds in the marsh. We headed to a few hot spots off of the MRGO and caught a few bulls. Then we moved into the marsh and spent the rest of the day limiting out on reds and catching a half dozen drum, a flounder, and even a few trout.The fish were caught on market bait and Berkley Gulp fished under a cork. BIGFISH Charters has accommodations across from the Breton Sound Marina and still offers the best fishing experience you can find anywhere. The number is easy 504-BIG-FISH or go to the web for videos, reports, photos, TV shows and more www.thebigfish.net

A Whale of a Day in the Gulf

2010-01-14T09:43:00.000-08:00

Headed deep into the Gulf of Mexico in search of Yellowfin Tuna and some BIGFISH TV. We drifted the floater oil rigs and drill ships found about 60 miles south of the Mississippi River.

On board with me, Capt. Hunter Caballero, David Montz, Louie Harris, Denis Bechac, Glenn Bohne, and Woody the deckhand. We fished hard catching some beautiful yellowfin. Perhaps the water's cool temperatures affected the fish, none of them had a lot of fight to them, they all came to the boat pretty easily.

After the Yellowfin fun, we headed back to the Venice Marina only to run up on a pod of about 20 Sperm Whales. These guys were relatively small (30+ feet) but not too skittish and allowed us close enough to get a good look a few photos and a little video. Really exciting!

Back at the dock Capt. Devlin Roussel brought in a freak of a fish. Not knowing what he had landed we brought the photos to Biologist and chief of the BIGFISH family Danica Williams. She identified the fish as a very rare Longnose Lancet

Great day on the water, fantastic fishing, amazing sights and always something unexpected.

Thanks to Capt. Hunter Caballero and Paradise Outfitters. Today's Tuna were his first of 2010 our first for Team BIGFISH and a great start to the offshore season.

Cold and Cooperative Specks

2009-12-23T08:18:00.000-08:00

Brandon and Marshall came prepared for a cold and slow fishing day on Tuesday. The father and son team didn't have to wait long as our first stop was our only one. 50 trout were in the boat by 8:45am.

Of course all of the trout were legal, but none we over 14 inches. Just a lot of good frying sized fish.

We spent a little time after looking for a few reds but didn't kill ourselves to track'em down.

Marshal (13) did a great job and we had a lot of fun. The fish are more cooperative than the weather right now.

Along with some great fishing, BIGFISH Charters also offers lodging to both charter guests and anyone else looking for a place to stay in the Hopedale area.

Call the number the fish is Breton Sound don't want you to know 504-BIG-FISH (244-3474)

Great Fishing and New Year's Resolution

2009-12-09T11:29:00.000-08:00

The camera was offline for a while so I wasn't taking the time to post. Will get back to it with a committment to make 2010 a better posting year.

Fishing from Pt. A la Hache to the Biloxi Marsh is great right now. November charters were off the charts with some great catches and even better people. Here are a few of the photos. Please check out the weekly news reports on Fox 8 every Thursdays at 9pm and Fridays at 7am.

Two Boats, Lots of Fish

2009-11-13T14:23:00.000-08:00

Dallon Weathers called Team BIGFISH to take a few friends in town for a bachelor party fishing.
A few late night owls rolled to the dock after daylight, but the late start didn't affect a thing. Heading into the Louisiana Marsh, we found A LOT of school trout and Beautiful Reds. We spent more time moving to get away from a bite (small fish) than trying to find a bite. The group was only keeping enough fish to take to the chef at Emeril's who offered to cook them at the restaurant.
With two charter boats, over 150 legal trout were counted. We had a few flounder and a dozen Redfish.
The guys called to say they had an amazing day, an incredible dinner, and planned to come back soon.

Dallon works on surveying the MRGO and you will likely see him on BIGFISH TV talking about the effects researchers are seeing after the closing of the waterway.

BIGFISH Charters also has lodging at the Breton Sound Marina for Charter Guests and Sportsmen looking for a place to stay.
Call the number the fish don't want you to know: 504 BIG-FISH (244-3474)

Hopedale, La. - Fish Heaven

2009-10-26T20:52:00.000-07:00

Short Runs and Hungry Fish, a charter captain's dream. Sunday the Hensons came fishing with me. Margaret Henson is largely responsible for BIGFISH getting the BIG-FISH phone number. She was a great help AND SHE CAN FISH! Husband Les, Son Steve did a great job holding their own, but the guest of honor was Bonnie as it was her first fishing trip. Les and Steve wailed on school trout, Margaret caught her fair share and then jumped on a beautiful 27 inch Redfish. A great day with 3 and a half limits of trout and a few Reds. Great people and great fishing.

BIGFISH Charters wants to take you fishing, please give us a call. We also offer lodging right across from the Breton Sound Marina for both charter guests and others. Give us a call 504 BIG-FISH.

A Pile of Fish

2009-10-26T20:33:00.000-07:00

Capt. Ted DeAgano of Scales N Tales charters asked for a hand with a big party he had coming from Jackson, MS. We fished Delacroix and when the day was done, we didn't leave many in the water.

I started under the birds with three guys pulling in five fish at a time (two on tandem rigs and one single). With a load of trout we headed into the broken marsh and put 12 beautiful Redfish in the boat. Both Seth and David's first reds. We met up with Capt. Ted and Capt. Ahab and found they had boat loads as well.

The fishing is some of the best ever. BIGFISH Charters offers lodging for charter guests and anyone else needing a place to stay. Give us a call 504 BIG-FISH.

Specks N Reds in the Louisiana Marsh

2009-10-07T23:27:00.000-07:00

David Montz from Seabrook Harbor invited friends in town from Florida to do a little BIGFISHin'. Along with son Jonah, the five of us headed off into the Biloxi Wildlife Management area. The first stop was a good one. The bite started slow but picked up nicely. With plans to make a short day, we knocked out 52 trout and went looking for Redfish. Throwing corks with Berkley Gulp along the shoreline of a favorite pond, we pulled out 8 Redfish and headed back to the dock.

An easy day and a great catch with a fun group. BIGFISH has lodging right across from the Breton Sound Marina and a first class charter service. Give us a call, (504) BIG-FISH.

ANOTHER GREAT BIGFISH DAY -Transition Fishin'

2009-10-02T15:04:00.000-07:00

Ran back into the Louisiana Marsh with Joe, Kenny, JD and Shawn. We made on stop for the trout and the moved into the nearest pond for the Reds. Folks say this is a time of year for "Transition Fishin'". So it was, the day started with thousands of white trout and then slowly the Speckled Trout started moving in. Before we knew it we had a box of hundreds of fish with about 68 of them being Specks. We moved into a pond and sight casted eight Redfish before heading back to the dock for a big cleaning. All of the fish were school trout. Our location was very close to the launch near a canal named for a Saint. If you know the spot, go get em, if you don't call BIGFISH and let us take you there.

NO LOVE for the FISH

2009-10-02T11:30:00.000-07:00

Great day in the Louisiana Marsh. Amanda and her gang of Veterinarians and friends came out to do a little BIGFISHin'. We made it a one-stop day. With a boat load of specks and white trout. Eight gallon bags of fillets went back to the kitchen with Amanda and friends. The fish were close to the launch. Capt. Tony Grose helped me out doing a great job. Thanks to all.

BIGFISH now has accommodations available for charter guests and individuals wanting to come to Hopedale the night before.

A Few More Summer Fishing Photos

2009-09-28T18:25:00.001-07:00

More Summer Fun To Share

2009-09-28T17:49:00.000-07:00

WOW! Was my last post really in JULY?

2009-09-28T17:25:00.000-07:00

Time flew this summer. To be honest, there was so much to do and just not enough BIGFISH horsepower to get it done. I ran a lot of charters until August, then it slowed down. September was a charter light but the fishing was good. October is booking well, a nice curve up and I will work to keep the web site and the reports a little more current. Until then (next charter Wednesday 9/30/09) here are some photos from this summers fishing.

Breton Sound Flounder Pounding

2009-07-14T12:10:00.000-07:00

When Team BIGFISH, Puglia's Sporting Goods, Berkley Gulp, and the folks from Pure Fishing talk about shooting a little video for BIGFISH TV, we want to make it something special. I had found a spot where I was catching the "Trinity of Inshore Fish" the "Cajun Grand Slam" Speckled Trout, Redfish and Flounder all from the same spot.

Gerald Gaspard from Berkley, Anthony Puglia and I set on a small island in Lake Machais. At our first stop using only Berkley GULP we caught all three species early. After that the Flounder turned on in a HUGE way and we limited out with 30 Flounder before lunch. In the process we picked up a bunch of specks and a few reds to add to the mix.

This ought to be a GREAT show and a real testimony to how well the Berkley GULP works on any of Louisiana's Inshore fish.

We are on some great fishing right now in Hopedale and Breton Sound. We have multiple boats, accommodations right at the Breton Sound Marina, and offer morning, evening, and night trips. Get in on some of the best fishing of the summer.

CALL THE NUMBER THE FISH IN BRETON SOUND DON"T WANT Y OU TO KNOW,

504-BIGFISH and let's Get On'Em.

Rogers Brothers and BIGFISH

2009-07-13T07:19:00.000-07:00

The Rogers brothers come every Father's day weekend with BIGFISH. Brother Reggie couldn't make it this year, but that didn't stop Roy and Charlie from jumping on the boat with Pops
and spending two days fishing. Day one was off the charts with each spot offering different fish. We started with a good run of nice school trout spot, moved to a hot redfish hole, stopped on a flat to find a nice catch of flatfish (flounder) and even found a perfect eating sized drum. A beautiful box of mixed fish, with a lot of speckled trout.

Both days turned out great boxes of fish. Fishing in the Sound is fantastic, especially when you can make a great catch before the sun starts to melt everyone on board. Anglers can almost create the box of fish by order. Specks for some, reds for others, a mixed box, or just monster line pulling drum and redfish. You make the call and let BIGFISH do the rest.

Call the number the fish in Breton Sound don't want you to know 504-BIGFISH

Our Lodging is right across the street from the Breton Sound Marina, wake up and walk to the boat.

Bobby, the Boys, and BIGFISH

2009-07-10T07:50:00.000-07:00

Bobby Goens wanted a day on the water with his two boys. We chased trout all over Bay Eloi only to find a hungry school of nice trout over near the rocks. The guys finished a limit of trout just before noon. A few reds made the day almost perfect. These guys knew how to fish and when the bite turned on, they wasted no time getting serious about the action.

BIGFISH wants to take you fishing. We're one of the area's biggest charter services for good reasons. Our rates are fair, our captains experienced, and there are no price walk-ups. Even the fish cleaning is inlcuded.

We also offer lodging at the Breton Sound Marina, wake up and walk to your boat.

Call the number the fish in Breton Sound don't want you to know - 504-BIGFISH and let's go fishing.

GULP Love

2009-07-10T07:45:00.000-07:00

An addition to the last post. The giant Black Drum were caught on the Berkley Gulp Alive. New Penny color, 3 inch shrimp. It is a bait you will always find on my boat. 2 feet under a cork in about 4 feet of water. The GULP is the REAL DEAL.

Brandon, the gang and BIGFISH

2009-07-10T07:12:00.000-07:00

Brandon's gang wanted BIGFISH and I just happened to know where a school of MONSTER drum were hanging out in Bay Eloi. We caught some nice trout early so everyone would have something to take home to eat and then headed out to find the "whales of Bay Eloi". There were Drum I saw and at first thought they were dolphin from the size of the wakes they made. Just a few casts and everyone on the boat was hooked up. Perhaps not the speck chasers cup of tea, but these guys loved the fight these submarines were giving. This school has been in the same area for about three weeks. I have left them alone except for when folks ask to catch BIGFISH. A great day on the water, we came home with speckled trout, redfish, a few eating sized drum and a group of guys with really tired arms.

Call 504-BIGFISH, the phone number the fish in Breton Sound don't want you to know.

We offer lodging at the Breton Sound Marina, wake up and walk to the boat. We are one of the the area's biggest charter services for a reason. Great rates, great captains, great fishing, and FREE Fish cleaning. Everything's included in the price, no walk-ups, just great fishing.

Kinetic Staffing and BIGFISH

2009-07-10T06:48:00.000-07:00

A great BIGFISHING day for Alan Lange and his guests from Kinetic Staffing. A three boat charter turned into a lot of fish as Capt. Tony, Capt. Johnny and I spent the day from the Central Oil Field to Stone Island. The fish were scattered, but there to be caught. We all separated for the day and came in at different times, this is just one of the catches of the day with captain Johnny Brechtel holding the electric knife, ready to get cleaning fish. Thanks to Alan and his guests for a great day on the water.

BIGFISH Charters wants to take you fishing. We have three boats ready to roll with lodging available. You won't find a better charter service, more competitive rates, no walk-ups (fuel bait etc...) free fish cleaning or people who are more experienced or more fun when it comes to fishing.

Call the number the fish in Breton Sound don't want you to know - 504-BIGFISH and let's get out and get on'em.

Trout Masters & The Science of Fish

2009-06-24T14:57:00.000-07:00

Made a trip with retired LSU SeaGrant professor Jerald Horst. Go figure, the day a biologist is onboard, we find the oxygen levels in Breton Sound were strangely and significantly low. The fishing was only OK, but the conversation and knowledge he shared on Speckled Trout was amazing.

Jerald took the time to talk about the life cycles, feeding habits, and breeding instincts that create predictable patterns for anglers to use in their effort to catch fish. We discussed their known predatory practices as well as their seasonal patterns. The show will dissect the speckled trout's needs and wants and give a real insight into a fish that so many love and so few understand. The show should be out in three weeks.

Along with a preview of his new book Trout Masters, Jerald is something of a food "hound" and has compiled a flavor packed book on shrimp and only shrimp. Look for both of these in your local book stores or on the La Sportsman web site.

Since the trip with Jerald Horst, fishing has picked up significantly. Fishing is strong, the BIGFISH cabins are cool, and now is a great time to call and schedule a trip. We are leaving early and fishing hard to beat the heat.

Make a call to the one phone number the fish in Breton Sound don't want you to know 504-BIGFISH.

Bay Eloi Bonus

2009-06-16T19:36:00.001-07:00

Mari Ann, Marie, Karen and John called 504 BIGFISH for a trip to the rocks and Bay Eloi. We fished the morning under a cork with Berkley Gulp white pearl shrimp 3 inch. They came to fish and say happy birthday with cupcakes and beer. We caught 50 beautiful trout and a mixed box of reds, drum, flounder and Spanish Mackeral. The rocks continue to give up nice fish and the bay is hot. BIGFISH offers Charter fishing in Breton Sound, accommodations for both charter guests and anglers on their own. We are located directly across from the Breton Sound Marina on the back canal. Call 504 BIGFISH for accommodations or to enjoy some of the best fishing the sound offers.

First Speckled Trout

2009-06-14T18:29:00.000-07:00

The Wood family joined me for a great day on the water. We fished Bay Eloi where Patrick caught his first speckled trout. A beautiful 2 pounder. We filled the box with specks reds and some puppy drum. We came home a few short of a limit but an overload of smiles and pride.

The rigs in Bay Eloi are on still. 2 feet under a cork in most places. Carolina rigs in others. Gulps Alive is working best under a cork. LIve bait is better on the bottom. The rocks seem to have gone "boom or bust". Great days and then nothing.

Call 504-BIGFISH and get your kids on the water or take some time for yourself and friends. We have accommodations right at the Breton Sound Marina. Wake up and walk to the boat.

Great Catch Tough Weather

2009-06-04T20:33:00.001-07:00

504-BIGFISH was the number David Frank and his gang called to make a trip into the sound today. The rain hit early as Capt Johnny Brechtel made his way to the rocks. The rain quit and the guys hit 65 trout in two stops before a HUGE water spout threatened and they called it a day. The guys were back at the dock in the the BIGFISH accommodations drying off before 11:00 while their fish were getting cleaned. BIGFISH Charters is on great fishing and would love to have you come fish with us. Give us a call. The phone number the fish in Breton Sound don't want you to know is 504-BIGFISH. Accommodations right across from the Breton Sound Marina are available.

5/31 100 Done Even Bigger

2009-06-02T21:22:00.000-07:00

Football sized Specks were flying in the boat for Corey McManus and his crew. We started early from the BSM loaded with Boogie Shrimp and Croakers and the amazing Berkley Gulp Alive.

The rocks were the first stop and not a bad one. But a short move to a few close rigs made a world of difference. All four of the gang were flipping fish into the boat as we made our way

to one hundred. Most were caught on Carolina rigs with some under a cork.

All were beautiful, most were over a pound and a half, and about 25 were over 3 pounds. No 5 pounders, but a boat load of beautiful specks.

The fishing is as good as it gets in the Sound

and even better in a BIGFISH boat.

Call the number the fish in Breton Sound

don't want you to have - 504-BIGFISH.

We have new accommodations located just across from the marina.

5/30 Long Day Good Results

2009-06-02T21:13:00.000-07:00

Bill, Nan, Lyle and Juanita on Saturday 5/30 had high expectations after limiting out early the day before. We fished everywhere with a few bites here and there, but nothing great. The trout didn't start getting really active until late in the afternoon. We had a box full of reds and drum, but it wasn't until after 1:30 that the trout started to bite.

The gang was determined and we stayed until the last shrimp and croaker was gone. The crew left early the next morning with over ten gallon bags of cleaned fillets. A nice haul to bring back to North Caronlina.

5/29 - 100 Done by Lunch

2009-06-02T21:05:00.000-07:00

Nan & Bill Collins brought Lyle and Juanita to do the BIGFISH for a couple of days. We left the dock early Friday and got back by lunch with a limit of beautiful Speckled Trout. The rocks continue to produce some BIG specks in good numbers. Most of the fish were caught on live Boogie Shrimp from BSM and Berkley Gulp Alive pearl white 3 inch shrimp. We fish a little in Bay Eloi with good results and a lot on the rocks with even better results. Baxter the Beagle stayed at the camp but met us at the dock to clean fish.

The fishing is OUTSTANDING in the Sound and especially on a BIGFISH boat.

Just Call the Phone Number the Fish Don't Want You To Have - 504-BIGFISH and let's GET OUT and GET ON'EM.

Memorial Day Squeaker

2009-06-02T07:12:00.000-07:00

504-BIGFISH was the number Pat Gordon and his gang called to get our into Breton Sound and on some great fishing. We hit the rocks early and worked through a nice box of fish until about 10:30 when the forecasted front showed up a little early. The weather ran us in and we made it just as few rain drops started to fall.

I have a lot of reports to get up. This weekend was OFF the CHARTS crazy with limits early almost everyday.

I'm typing between re-spooling reels and re-rigging.

June has a few days and July has a couple of weekend openings. We have new accommodations right next to the Breton Sound Marina.

Call the number the fish in Breton Sound DON'T want you to know - 504 BIGFISH (244-3474)and let's GET OUT AND GET ON'EM.

Almost Ready to Glass

2009-05-28T09:48:00.000-07:00

The houseboat's exterior frame is just about ready to glass. I am waiting for a few days of hot weather to dry the wood a bit and then we'll get at least one layer on. Next week I am trying to get the old BIGFISH charter boat "the original" set next to this one and start moving motor brackets and "cannibalizing" parts. Lots of work, but making progress. This shot was taken after a long day of fishing and work on the boat as I left Seabrook.

Done Early

2009-05-28T09:18:00.000-07:00

504 BIGFISH was the number David and Jeffrey Montz called to learn the back way around the Mr. Gone and to catch a quick limit of fish. The guys from Seabrook Harbor wanted to help their customers get around the recently closed Mississippi River Gulf Outlet. Capt Johnny Brechtel and I took them down both sides of the closed waterway and showed them the deepest routes for the large sport fishing boats they repair. On the way we hit a couple of spots and knocked out 50 beautiful trout. We were home with the fish cleaned before lunch and before I even thought to get the camera out. We killed two birds with one BIGFISH boat and had a great day.

BIGFISH accommodations are up and running. We have three cabins on the water with 14 beds total. Give us a call 504-BIGFISH, and let's GET OUT and GET ON'EM.

Washout Sunday

2009-05-18T10:23:00.000-07:00

OKAY, after a great week of fishing, mother nature made sure to remind us that she is in control. An afternoon charter with Billy Primeaux and friends started off great. A few spotty showers were moving around but the fish were biting. We had just anchored and already had twelve fish in the boat with the bite getting better. Suddenly, the closest squall mushroomed into a really dark, windy, and threatening storm. With no hope of getting around it, we made our way back to the lodge to dry off and wait it out. Unfortunately, there was no waiting it out. So the trip was called. This was my first twelve fish charter where the guest felt like they slammed the fish and were happy to be home early.

First Place Saturday

2009-05-18T10:18:00.000-07:00

Fished the Italian American Rodeo with Craig Mouney and friends. WHAT A CREW. These guys multi tasked on fish and refreshment. Totally focused on fun and winning. We ran quite a bit trying to find a few "Gorilla Troutzillas". By the end of the day we had a nice box of fish for the grill and fryer as well as FIRST place Speckled Trout, Sheepshead, and 4th place Drum.

One moment of note was when Craig "Fast Thinker" Mouney set the hook on a fish, lost his balance, and started to teeter out of the boat, he threw me the rod as he took a dive. The fish was caught, Craig got a break from the hot sun and the rod was saved. NOT BAD.

Great Fishing Friday

2009-05-18T10:14:00.000-07:00

The day started slow. We hit rocks early, then ran out into Bay Eloi. We had a full load of beautiful redfish and a good start on the trout, but the bite was SLOW and we needed to find a few hungry fish. As usual the Bay produced and in one stop we finished the day. Lots of school sized fish on the bottom. The trick is to not stay in the same place if the fish aren't biting. They seem to be boom or bust, school is in or out. Bounce rigs until you find the bite. We finished with 75 trout (limit) and 13 Reds (two short). Carolina rigs with live shrimp seemed to be a favorite.

A Little Wind, A Lot of Fishing

2009-05-13T16:07:00.000-07:00

504-BIGFISH was the number George Smith called to take a boat load of friends and family fishing. With gusty winds we stuck to Bay Eloi and the Mr. Gone Rocks to pull off a great mixed box of fish. The gang started the morning with a quick trout bite putting about 25 in the boat. Then proceeded to limit out on Redfish (25) and still added even more Trout mixed with some perfect 22 inch Drum and a few Sheepshead. The filets crowned a five gallon bucket. Hope they're hungry.

Fish On in Breton Sound

2009-05-12T17:42:00.000-07:00

Eddie Ducasse Jr., Capt. Ted DeAgano and I spent the morning crushing beautiful 2-3 pound Speckled Trout. We started on the MR Gone Rocks, worked our way into the sound, and then hit the flocks of birds on the way home. Along with 65 beautiful school and football sized trout, we also caught a half dozen reds, a couple of drum, and a few sheepshead.

Great day fishing with friends. Charters all the rest of the week, will have more.

504-BIGFISH (244-3474) The phone number the fish in Breton Sound DON'T want you to have.

Causeway Slabs

2009-05-06T05:31:00.001-07:00

BIGFISH TV on the Causeway
Bounced pilings on the Causeway with Capt. Eric Dumas for a great BIGFISH TV show. Chad Manuel from Ray Brandt met us in the morning at the Bonnabel boat launch and the three of us ran MAYBE two miles to start fishing. The action was steady with Baychovie Deadly Dudleys and Pearl White 3" Gulp Alive Shrimp. We caught 3, 4, and 5 pound Speckled Trout along with some schoolies.

We were back at the launch before noon with a box of fish, a lot of laughs, and a great show. This one will air this Saturday on WDSU at 5:30am and a week later on CST on Sunday at 8am.

Thanks to Capt Eric and Chad Manuel.

GULLible Pelicans

2009-04-20T19:31:00.000-07:00

Near the short rocks in Breton Sound, the brown pelicans were feeding. Every time they would dive into the water and catch something, they would have to keep their heads down to prevent the gulls from stealing. Repeatedly the gulls would sit on the pelicans head waiting for an opportunity.

Water was dirty and rough, but I am pretty sure the birds were working pogies / menhaden. That's a great sign for increased Speckled Trout activity.

Trash Fish Monday

2009-04-20T17:15:00.000-07:00

I don't know where the fish I have been catching for almost two months went today. Lockjaw, moved out, spring break, or something. John, Karen, Marie and our birthday girl Mari Ann caught lots of every species of fish except the ones we would have liked.

20+ mph Northwest winds, low dirty water in most places, and little tide didn't help.

The crew was amazing, with good spirits and a stick to it attitude that made the day a great one despite our challenges. Thanks to them.

Big Redfish Day

2009-04-17T06:58:00.000-07:00

504-BIGFISH is the number George McClatchey called to make a great trip to the marsh with the Dillon Brothers. The tide was extremely low in the morning but rising fast and these guys stayed with the program until the water came up and the Redfish started moving back into the marsh to feed. The fish ranged from 28 to 15 inches. Only one throw back. We threw Johnson Spoons, Berkley Gulp, and live minnows. The Louisiana Marsh (Biloxi Wildlife Mgmnt Area) is giving up good Redfish. The trout bite is starting on the outer edges of the marsh and improving every day.

Let Team BIGFISH get you on a great catch of fish. Give us a call. The number is as easy as the fishing.

Amazing Day

2009-04-11T21:57:00.000-07:00

Danica and I went looking for Redfish close to Slidell today. Spent our time in the ENE side of the Louisiana Marsh. Gotta say, there's nothing new to having big Mississippi head boats in the marsh for me, but it really doesn't sit well. Just seems like business we're losing. BUT I DIGRESS. Danica and I found several good redfish spots. Not sure they were/are enough to be confident for next weekends CCA Redfish Challenge, but good solid reds. We had a great day fishing, took some home for Easter Sunday and left a few in our spots for next time.

Fishing Reports

2009-04-09T08:12:00.001-07:00

Looks like this forum will work for this year's fishing reports. You can subscribe to it and get notices of new reports or check back regularly to see what's going on. The focus this summer will also be to provide some maps in the BIGFISH University section of the web site.

I think you will see a lot of improvements, information, and activity on the BIGFISH web site, please make it one of your favorites and let's go fishing.

Plans for the Suwanee 62

2009-04-07T20:05:00.000-07:00

The pics may be hard to read, but they are the plans I have for the houseboat. If you have questions or comments, email me at CT3@thebigfish.net. I can send a PDF of more detailed and readable details.

The forward doghouse will be a masters quarters where a couple can have a private room with a full bath.

As the plans move aft, there is a full sized lower bunk and single upper bunk in a semi private room. The head will have a door in the main salon that will hold a full/single bunk on the starboard side, a single/single bunk on the port side and a couch on that side as well that can convert into a single bunk. Along the starboard aft side of the cabin is a galley with a wall mounted flat screen TV.

Plumbing and wiring will be kept relatively simple. Steering and throttle controls will come down through the interior wall of the head and travel aft through the bilge area.

Re-Framing the Suwanee 62

2009-04-07T19:44:00.000-07:00

With a lot of help from friends, I have torn the old cabin apart, and without having to remove the roof of the structure, I have reframed the cabin and replaced the decking. From the bow of the boat to the stern end of the cabin the exterior is just about ready to start fiber-glassing.

The cabin of this boat was HUGE, but the back deck seemed limited in size. I chose to move the back wall of the cabin about 4 feet forward. Ultimately, this created a huge back deck without compromising the space I wanted on the inside. One way I planned to gain space in the cabin, is to not put a steering station down below. The boat will have a large flying bridge and only one helm. The design will allow for a below roof, helm to be added later if needed.

Suwanee 62' The Beginning

2009-04-07T18:54:00.000-07:00

The Suwanee 62 was found in Lake Conroe, Texas. The boat was confiscated as a nuisance vessel for being dilapidated and abandoned. I purchased the boat for the fines and fees that had accumulated while in the custody of the the San Jacinto River Authority.

The story is that the boat was commissioned by a Texas University as a research vessel. The owner of the boat when it was confiscated was a university teacher in Tennessee.

With a lot of effort and a little creativity, I had the boat loaded and trucked to New Orleans and the Seabrook Harbor Boat Yard (Great Guys!).

The boat sat for a while in the yard, the charter business was busy and my wife Danica and I were renovating a house and preparing for our wedding.

Once Seabrook had the boat on blocks, I had a dumpster brought in and started tearing her apart.

Suwanee 62' Renovation

2009-04-07T18:37:00.000-07:00

A Project for the Brave

Along with Team BIGFISH reports from Hopedale, Breton Sound and coastal Louisiana, I have a project that may be of interest to boat enthusiasts.

I purchased a 62' Kenner Suwanee houseboat. The boat has a bit of a history. I am working to rebuild the boat and re-establish its history. I will post the progress along with pictures as I work. I encourage any suggestions and comments on the boat. This is how I found the boat. I will post the progress of the project as I can.

BIGFISH Reports

2009-04-07T10:17:00.000-07:00

BIGFISH Reports

Along with the many online sources for fishing reports, BIGFISH reports can be found here. ALong with those reports we will also offer anything else of interest.