WADEFISHING
By Jim Foster
Quite a few anglers would like to try wade fishing if they just knew the basics. Some have never waded the Lower Laguna Madre and want to know how to wade and what they might need to get started. So here we go.
Wade-fishing equipment is fairly simple. There are several manufactures of wading equipment that make the sport much safer and more comfortable. The equipment is simple and relatively inexpensive – oh yes, you can find the “pricy” stuff.
The first item of wade fishing gear an angler should have would be a good pair of wading shoes or boots. These can be special Wade fishing boots made to be worn with stocking-foot waders, a plain pair of high-top tennis shoes, or the zip-up-the-side special wading boot.
If you choose tennis shoes then the high-top styles are better than the low top variety because they help keep sand and bits of shell out of your shoes. During the cooler times of the year a pair of neoprene waders will help keep you warm in the cooler water.
The next piece of equipment would be a wade fishing belt. The belt should have a rod holder and a stringer clip. I have been using a NUMARK model that comes with all the basics plus a Velcro pouch for extra tackle, and a matching stringer clip and stringer.
Some anglers prefer to wear a fishing vest instead of having the small pouch on their belt. The vest does allow you to carry much more fishing type stuff. I wear a belt and a vest because I like to carry a lot of STUFF.
A long stringer will come in handy by keeping your fish away from your legs and make it easier to walk without a constant tugging on your belt. Many wade-fishermen are also trophy anglers and will only keep the larger fish if it’s going to the taxidermist. Wade-fishing tackle is basically the same gear you would use in a boat.
At times fishing around the many small islands and spoil areas you will see tailing redfish. Here's how it’s done.
Wade to within casting range of the fish - No Splashing - When you are in position cast your lure or bait well past the fish then bring your bait back through the feeding fish. If the first cast is a little off, don't get excited and spook the fish. Try the cast again until your bait is taken by one of the feeding fish.
As far as things to avoid, the most common of the saltwater boogers is the stingray. This flat, bottom-loving creature is found in the same areas as redfish. Many times it’s hard to find one without the other. To avoid a problem shuffle your feet as you walk along.
Wade fishing is a fun, relaxing and great way to find and catch a good stringer of reds, speckled trout and flounder. It is easy to master and there are numerous locations to wade for game fish.
A few good spots that are accessible without a boat are Holly Beach, Laguna Vista Cove, the water across from the Port Isabel High School, South Bay via Boca Chica Beach, on either side of the Queen Isabella Causeway (island side), and the miles of bay north of the convention center on the island.
Now that you have the basics, go get your feet wet. Good Fishing!
If you have comments or news for Jim Foster please email him at: jim@jimfosteroutdoors.com
