We enjoyed our last trip to Isle of Capri, watched the movie Monument Men and Grudge Match on the bus. We had some big winners, good food and lots of fun. Keep updated on extended trips with Jill Blakeway 321/773-2080 [email protected]; and day trips with Terry Mellon at 321/773-7705 [email protected].

We enjoyed our last trip to Isle of Capri, watched the movie Monument Men and Grudge Match on the bus. We had some big winners, good food and lots of fun. Keep updated on extended trips with Jill Blakeway 321/773-2080 [email protected]; and day trips with Terry Mellon at 321/773-7705 [email protected].

With catch-and-release fishing we find ourselves landing a fish and then releasing it back
into the water, only to catch (what looks like) the same fish again. I find myself thinking…”Boy, these fish must really be hungry or dumb, biting on the bait after just being caught!” But, wait! There’s a “reel” good possibility that this is not the same fish, but a different one of the same species. You probably haven’t landed the first one again, and here’s the reason why:

• First – many of these fish are school fish, they swim in large groups. There’s a gazillion of them down there, and the competition for food is intense.
• Second- the “experience” of being caught is a stressful one (for the fish, AND the fisherman!). A fish uses up a lot of energy trying to get away.
• Third – when back into the water they probably sense that they just had an unpleasant experience. That fish is going to find a nice, deep, quiet spot to get a little “R and R” and build his energy back up. He probably won’t eat for a little while yet.

Catch-And-Release techniques should be carefully performed. Don’t let the fish hit the dock or any other obstructions. Don’t step on any fish (REALLY?). Handle the fish with wet hands, if possible, and get the hook out as quickly and gently as possible. Support a large fish under the middle of it’s body, and drop, don’t throw, a fish back to the water. Certain deep-water protected species, it may be necessary to deflate the fish’s swim bladder with
a special tool for this purpose, before releasing it. If you’re going to keep your catch, he goes right on the ice, but that’s another story. Be kind to our finny friends and they’ll be around a long time!

Fish On!
Gene O’Connell
321/773-4647 or [email protected]

Louise T. filling in for Floss this month.

Join the double pinochle players on Thursdays starting at 9:30am. Call Gloria at 773-0151 for info.

Amelia Island, St. Augustine and Jacksonville

Learn the history of the area from knowledgeable guides, visit the Kingsley Plantation, relax while cruising on the St. John’s River. Driving, restaurant, hotel reservations and other plans are all made for you! Come and have fun for just $269 per person, all inclusive. April 30th -May 2nd. Call Jill 773-2080

Day Trips: Look for a gambling trip in March and some fun excursions are in the works for April and May. The Jan 30th Seminole Casino Coconut Creek trip was a big success and everyone had a great time! Contact Terry Mellon at 321/773-7705 to keep updated.