The Kiptopeke adventure is over for 2010

Hey Guys,

Glad to get a reply from Benji White about Condo living. Wish it came when I asked BISC members for info several months ago. Unfortunately, I don't know nuttin' and I'm getting requests? The bay water temperature dropped below 45 degrees after December 1 and as far as I'm concerned, ended the COW fishing at Kiptopeke. Those fish caught in the 40+ class were far and few between. Maybe next year there will be some offers to join forces for a condo for 2 months, Nov and Dec so we'll meet the stripers head on. Or, maybe it's time to move to Deleware bay and try something new. Or is that Ruddee Inlet where the COWs might be sitting and waiting.

Could't leave this blog alone without mentioning again the breakfasts at J.H. West Seafood, Inc. Only a couple hundred yards up the street from the Kiptopeke Inn and a convenient breakfast/meeting place. Two eggs, two pancakes, 3 slices of bacon for $3 plus a buck for coffee. The other great evening/lunch is Kelly's Butternut Pub in Cape Charles. It's a place you'll remember long after you've forgotten about the greasy spoon "Sting Rays". Up to Exmore, about 20 miles north of the Kiptopeke Inn, is another great eatery called "The Great Machipongo Clam Shack (6468 Lankford Hwy, Exmore, VA 757 442 3800). Had a great shrimp salad and stuffed flounder!

Joy TB

In retrospect about what needs for lodging to bring along

Found that most of the stuff I took along to Kiptopeke went unused, like the freezer. Likely a hundred other things needed, but . . . looking at lodging, it seems there are other options that have similar costs to the Kiptopeke Inn at $650 plus tax. Tumbleweed, for example paid $700 (one of four) for a huge house for the month. Yogi, I heard got a house in Cape Charles for about $700 for the month. Just getting some thinking going for next year.

If the Kiptopeke becomes a focal point in 2011, make careful consideration of where the room is located. Stay away from the NW (rear) corner rooms that are close to the fish cleaning debris. For some reason fishermen need that sign that says "clean up after yourself, your mommy doesn't live here". Many of the rooms along the North outside are OK as ya can charge yer boat with a thin long extension cord that can pass under the door. Boat washing is at the fish cleaning station. Any of the rooms facing the swimming pool are OK, but I think those toward the south end of the pool would be more desirable. Some on the SW outside might be OK if maintained. KI has 24/7 TV monitoring of the lots. While the KI is pet friendly, it didn't work well for me and I'll board my dog next time.

OK, for the room if ya get permission. A small refrigerator, a coffee maker, Ramrod kept a small slow cooker going with his version of stew, maybe a small microwave, some bring a small barbee for outside the room. Food Lion, VA liquor, Micky Dees, Sting Rays, and other ilk are within 7 miles North. I favor J. B. Hunt wholesale fish for breakfast (2 eggs, 2 pancakes, 3 slices of bacon) $2.95 plus $1 for coffee if ya like. Of course, there's good eats at Kelley's Gingernut Pub in Cape Charles. Further up 13, about 20 miles, there's a clam shack and a fish house noted for great food (unlike Sting Rays greasy spoon).

A few things hardly worked, like the TV and internet access. Mobile wireless seems best if it serves the area. VirginMiFi worked well for me and also covers my home town. I'll be terminating my satellite service. Next year, there should be broadband wireless in Scottsburg too. News and other movies are best by VCR or online in my estimation.

While I stayed 12 of the 31 days, I figure I break even. May get a few more days before the end of the month if the weather and the fish cooperate.

Waiting for Gale/Blizzard to pass . . .

I met Bill Fowler displaying his expertise with crappie at Ivy Hill right after he was recovering from his cancer. Later, he got his prosthesis and can speak, but I don't hear all that well. He puts up with my lack of hearing his instructions. Both he and his Mrs (Lidia) are great people to know. He got me into redfinning and it stuck. Never boated one yet, but the strikes and events were spectacular. He's got dozens of personal hurdles to corral crappie.

Both he and Lidia can join me anytime as I hope to fish from Bill's float too.


Steve Smith welcomed Kiptopeke last year with a 58 1/4 pound striper. I was pissed as it was my COW. Yet, couldn't have happened to a nicer guy and he's welcome to join me on my boat any time. He made it possible for me to fish Weldon for the first time. Learned about bumper boats and to be sure to have a ruler on board.



With no means to get on the bay until at least Thursday, I opted to return to the homestead for a few days. Left this morning about 11 AM and arrived at Scottsburg at 3:30 PM. Got stuff needed in the house tonight. Other unneeded stuff will be unloaded and some clothes washing will get done. No need for the freezer at all. Rather, a small refrigerator would have been nice, including a coffee maker. Even a small microwave would have been a better choice. I took so many unnecessary things and had to buy extension cords . . .

Oh, the COW situation? Well, some say they aren't in the bay yet. Mike Smedley caught some small schoolie types that had sea lice.

Ramrod and I were the only ones left at the motel. Ramrod called me and told me he was packing to leave. About the time I was leaving and about to let him know I would be gone for a few days. Later, I learned that Ramrod spend near 5 hours waiting in the bridge parking lot due to gale force winds on the bridge. I thought I was having it tough on the snowy roads.

Asked the management to fix my door lock, install a toilet paper roll holder, fix the TV, and fix the bathroom vent. Each time I took a crap, everyone left the room for a while.

Well, time to survey those that fished and find out if there's any news.

Kiptopeke seems a BUST for COWs this year . . .

The SeaPro in it's cocoon to ward off snow, ice, etc.

Got on the water two consecutive days with Ramrod and each day, had one break off. Another day with 4-5 foot seas in my estimation, again with Ramrod and got beat up pretty bad. Lots of tangled lines and . . . :(

Hawely (my son) and Bill Fowler arrived and we fished Friday on my boat without a bite. Water temp was 44.1 on my meter. Hawley left very early Sat morning and Steve Smith joined us about 7:30 AM. Launched and dinked around until about 2 PM when a squal moved in and it got uncomfortable. Steve headed home. Bill stayed with to help load the freezer, but had it in the truck by the time I got off the pot. Water temp continued to drop and spent many days at 37 degrees at Kiptopeke. The bridge at 42 degrees and Cape Charles at 47 or so.

Lanny Parrott checking on the club at Kiptopeke Inn and met Xacho et all.


Now getting most of my stuff packed and ready to haul to the truck. The boat is charging while I sit.

I may come back next week and/or I may not. May go to visit Hawley for a few days.



More later as I think about this misadventure.

Just ruminating at the Kiptopeke Inn

Water is fine, but no one to go out with. Stopped at Chris' and talked with Mike Smedley (Team Old School), had clients and about to hit the bay. Said he'd call me, but so far he hasn't. Picked up 2 dozen eels that now reside in the bath tub. Not per say, but in the 3 bucket system. Ice dripping on the eels to keep them cold and wet. Looks like one croaked already. Time will tell as I'll need ice in the mornng . . . Ramrod kept his eels alive for a week in the 3 bucket system before he opted to try his bait tank. Quite different this year due to the cold tempeatures. In usual years, the bait tanks had to be in the shade and likely needed both frequent water change and frozen bottles of ice to keep the eels happy. Yet, for weekend ventures, the 3 bucket system works great. On the water, I gave the eels a chance to swim around and get a bit hardened. Back in the bucket with ice dripping on them, the became lethargic and pretty simple to handle. By the way, don't drill holes in the eel bucket larger than 3/8 ths. Small eels can squeeze through 1/2 inch holes. Also, I kept my eels on the boat in '09 with a bait spa on the bottom and didn't lose any eels. Just need frequent water change and rinse of the filter. The filter is only necessary to allow the aeration gadget to function properly. Some just use an airstone. One of them 5 gallon insulated drink coolers works great. I never got an inside bucket arranged. Maybe next year, maybe not as I like the 3 bucket system. Yet, in hot weather . . . Think I saw Yogi uses the 5 gal insulated water cooler on his boat.

Think we found that stopping at Ocean's East #2 and buying a couple dozen eels at less than $20 a dozen was a wise choice. Chris' charges $25 a dozen and that's ok considering the bridge tolls. Some bring in a hundred eels per batch and maintain them in a bait tank. A lot of work and I think I'd rather spend my liesure time otherwise.

Talked to Ramrod and agreed to go out with him in the morning (7 AM) oh my god, that's early and cold. I'll call him in a few mintues about dinner. My son Hawley will be here tomorrow about 10 PM. Steve Smith decided not to join me. Bill Fowler will be here sometime tomorrow afternoon, maybe. Will be a room full as I have full size rather than queen beds as earlier thought. No matter, we'll make due as there's no room at the Inn. Whoops, Steve Smith changed his mind and will arrive at 7 AM tomorrow morning. Great to have guys on the boat that are familiar with my tackle and take charge so I can keep the boat on course.

Lots of miniscule stuff to report, but I'll add it as time and incentive permits. This blog is a work in progress.

What about some launch and other fees?

OK, the CBBT will cost ya $20 one way for the car/boat. Car is $12 one way. If ya return within 12 hours, ya get $7 off, but not for the boat. That was easy, I think, if I got it right.

The Kiptopeke launch is a Virgina State park and covered by a daily launch fee. $8 weekend and $7 weekdays for VA residents. NC residents purchasing a VA license qualify for the VA resident rate. The special $11 for a week day and $12 for a weekend is for MD residents. Will Carpenter reports that an annual launch pass for Kiptopeke at the park office is $97 for under 65 and $79 for seniors. Get it in December and ya get two Decembers. Good deal is ya ask me. Lanny Parrott provided additional information, so hopefully all is now correct.

However, I have a handicap placard that allows parking free at any state park. Unfortunately, it doesn't include launching. OK, for $44, ya can get an annual launch pass that applies to ALL state parks in VA. Included Kiptopeke and Kerr.

For those using the Corp of Engineers facilities on Kerr, a $10 lifetime national parks pass will qualify ya for 1/2 price launches. Still better, if ya go to the Dam or Longwood offices, ya can get an annual pass for $15.

So, for $60 a year I get all my fishing launch fees taken care of. Well almost! Cape Charles and the Fisherman's Island launch are not state and may cost near $15. Check it out before ya leave yer trailer on the lot.

Hope this helps.

At the Kiptopeke Inn and it's a zoo . . .

So, I arrived at Kiptopeke Inn on Dec. 1 about 7 PM and checked in. Knew where the room was. Went through several issues with the card that didn't work. Finally, after a few days, I can leave the room with confidence that I can get back in.

The Kiptopeke Inn showing my MiFi center. A mess, but it works!

Room has two queen beds. A good thing as I'm not all that neat. Unless there's company planned, the spare bed is a place for bulky clothes, etc.

Another corner filled with fishing junk. The wheels on the rod holder are working just great for moving them around. Xacho is standing guard. She got a little lonely and decided to jump on the bed and sleep next to me. Easier to just let her do her thing than argue. That's a woman?

Met up with Ramrod and we bought a couple of dozen eels. The price for 100 evaporated and the Chris' cost is $25 per dozen plus tax. Across the bridge, we might get them by the hundred for about $1.50 each. Lots of trouble. Ramrod never set his bait tank up, nor did I. Ramrod had two buckets, one with some holes in the bottom, one solid, and I provided another with holes. The idea was to put ice in the top bucket, let the cold water drip on the eels, and the solid bucket catch the flow through. After two trips on the bay and 3 days at the motel, they seem to be doing OK. Haven't checked with Ramrod today about their status. He took the bottom bucket off and put the thing in his tub to keep the eels from freezing.

First day, the weather sort of cooperated and we went to 18 in Ramrod's boat. Early on, the waves were about 3 feet and a wise choice to use his boat. We got one hook up that ended in a break off with me holding the rod. :( Ran into a line of crab pots and wasted a huge amount of time trying to clear them rather than going back and starting the drift again. Had lots of time to think about the break off. Ramrod changed all his line to braid, don't know what the drag was set for. Pondered for the rest of the afternoon about that breakoff. Unfortunately, I wasn't dressed for the cold and got chilled. Was glad when Ramrod suggested we head for the dock. This, despite the water was almost like glass.

Next day on the water, we dinked around due to high wind and seas, but had decided to take my boat if the water calmed. Everything ready except rods on my boat . Talked to some that tried to get beyond the concrete ships and came back in. About 1 PM, Yogi informed us that we could get on the water, but would be better in Ramrod's boat. Ha, ha, change course and took his boat again. Headed to 18 again and did several drifts. One hookup on a planer, ran drag for a minute, me just holding bend in the rod - poof, break off again. Now, the thought was getting serious. Hooks, drag, line, what was going on? Ya can expect maybe one in 10, but not two consecutive break offs.

Sent a note to Mike Smedley to see what he had in mind and he recommended dumping the braid, no stretch. Or, take the drag down to about 2 pounds. So, by the time I got back to Ramrod, he'd already reduced the drag on his rods. I had mine set at 5 pounds, but adjusted them to 3 pounds, I think. I reasoned that a 1 point soda bottle weighs 1 pound, 3 would give me the drag I wanted to set. Unfortunately, the drag is set with a full spool. Actual fishing, there's about 100 feet off the spool, or more. The reduced diameter of the spool increases the drag! The longer the fish pulls line, the heavier the drag gets. Eventually, it can pull the hook - break off! OTOH, a COW can pull a hundred yards of like of and ya can hear the line sizzling through the guides. Guess that's the fun with big fish.

Since my objective is to catch a COW, I may release any smaller fish and go home empty. Well, that's the plan for now.


Supposed to go to dinner at Tumbleweed's mansion on Sat. night, but got lost and couldn't find him. Shown at the right in his chef outfit. I didn't realize there were two entries to Kiptopeke State Park. The idea was to turn right into the park, left at Arlington, and right into the mansion driveway. It's OK if ya choose the second entry to the park. Ha, ha, got an invite for the next night for deep fried striper/fries/coleslaw. With Ramrod driving, it was a sure thing to reach the destination.

No fishing on Sunday due to the big blow - small craft warnings - gale.


Here we see Larry Robertson, Yogi, and Ramrod dressed for dinner?

Monday through Wednesday, the sea will be like 7 feet, too much for all but the hardiest numb nut to be on the water. But, so far, Thursday looks to be 1-2 foot waves continuing to Saturday. Will be COLD, but fishable.

Hurray, finally can see a departure for Kiptopeke . . .

Hey, hey, I had to postpone my departure one day from the 30th to the 1st, but the bay isn't cooperating as far as seas is concerned. The reports are that the larger stripers are now entering the bay and Tidalfish reports decent catches. I'll have a few photos of the freight when I'm ready to leave the homestead.

The final prep for travel to Kiptopeke

Whew, decided to grease the boat motor and hubs and found out something more than an ordinary round to it. One of the hubs didn't have a grease zerk? Yep, just a hole where it should have been. Obviously fallen out long ago. Glad I didn't leave the task until after getting to Kiptopeke. Last year, after I launched in the deep sand, I found one of the buddy bearing hubs missing. Sand inside the whole bearing! :( Took a while to find the bearing sets and the weather turned bitterly cold. Decided to buy a hub kit rather than replace the bearings and bearing cap. Later, I went ahead and replaced the bearings in the old hub so I'd have a spare for on the road. Only 4 days until departure and now will waste one taking the hub off, cleaning the old grease to check if the bearings are OK, and then reinstall if all goes well. A reason I like the tandom axle is that a flat doesn't leave ya stranded along side the road. I have one of them aluminum circle lifts and spare tires ready if needed.

Already lubed the boat tie downs, a must to be ready for the salt.

Wanted to change the lube in the lower unit, but found that I don't know how? Problem solved as Mike Smedley let me copy pages of his manual and there the instruction was. Get er done tomorrow along with the hub bearing. OK, tomorrow came and I got the hub repaired, but found that the lube pump wouldn't work with my motor. Wrong thread. Says it fits on the label, but . . . Maybe another day.

Pulled the prop, greased the spline, and checked for fishline on the shaft. All looked well, though the prop nut was only finger tight. Unfortunately, I didn't copy the torque data page.

Well, all this stuff is meant as a reminder to others hauling a boat over long distance and doing the launch in the salt.

Several BISC members mentioned on Tidalfish BISC forum that they would be fishing Kiptopeke on T-day. Looked to be 1-2 foot seas and if the stripers are in, there should be a great report.

Decided I can't get ready in time to leave on Nov. 30 and will depart on Dec. 1. Water will be rough on Wensday anyway. Didn't get any response to my Tidalfish post about the Toys for Tots as a club entry. I'll forget about registration as the club obviously doesn't have interest this year.

What's the weather on the Bay near Kiptopeke?

Guess there's lots of web sites, but I've found that

HTTP://www.wunderground.com/MAR/AN/632.HTML

Sometimes works great for me.

Travel to Kiptopeke Inn to evalate the accommodations . . .

Made the trip to Kiptopeke Inn with the company of Bill Fowler. Found the Kiptopeke Inn reluctant to take my dog even though pet friendly for less than $10 a day in addition to the monthly rate. Ok, may be able to deal with that. Wanted to put a 7 cu foot chest freezer in the room for ice/fish storage, but maybe? How to run the electric to charge the boat must be through an alcove and to the rear of the motel. Most all the first floor door locks are broken off and/or show evidence of break in. Do I trust to leave my boat? What to do with the bait tank for the eels. Seems like I'll have to put the tank in the bathroom or there abouts and use a receptical close by as it would be difficult and near impossible to maintain security outside. Then, how to get the electric to the boat. Seems like the Honda EU2000 generator is the only option. The K I said they would call about answering my questions, but it didn't happen.

Tried Kelly's in Cape Charles for lunch and it's as great as ever. Never wanting for more to eat for lunch or dinner - just great food and generous portions. Dinner includes grilled salmon, huge/thick slices of prime rib, fish and chips, and even a Volcano (Pork Ribs arranged appropriately) of pork barbecue. My lumpfin crab cake sandwich with brie sat atop a 1/2 pound hamburger cooked to my perfection. The sanwich stood a full 5 inches tall . . . now way! Sure was! A huge glass of dopplebock and another of Guiness with the sandwich went about $25, modest in today's economy. I assure anyone that the crap sold at StingRays will cost just as much and won't be any where as memorable to encourage a return. Of course, Cape Charles is a touristy destination and has lots of shops that will make most women want to empty a purse of $s. :)

Checked with Shore Stay Suites and they want $500 a week this year and $149 a night. BUT, also indicated that they expected to raise the rate before December . . .

Managed to stop at Oceans East 2 (5785Northampton Blvd, VA Beach) 23455, 757 464 6544 and found some gloves that might keep my hands warm on the bay in December. Called Calcutta, they seem to be made of insulation and water proof. Also got a huge package of Kamagatsu #8/0 circle hooks and a dozen or so #4 stainless ball bearing swivels with welded rings. Owner hooks seem much more substantial for some reason. Guess I'll have to see if I ever get a hook straightend.'

Later, stopped at the Hampton Bass Pro shop and bought another Sumano TLD 20. They were out of the Okuma Sorrento that I wanted. The TLD 20 has all the features I want in a lever drag reel and I may stop next trip and buy another to fill my want of 8 complete rods. Already got about 18 leaders assembled with 40 pound fluorocarbon and ball bearing swivels with various size hooks. Takes time to tie hooks/swivels on the water and cold fingers make it almost impossible.

It's time to get ready for Kiptopeke 2010

This season is a bit different because Xacho, a Goldendoodle (10 months)will join me. Ha, ha, only gold is her nose from either her mom or dad (both blond). At one time, she was total black. Now turning gold and silver? Not sure the meaning of the sadness in her eyes? Fortunately, the Kiptopeke Inn is pet friendly.

















A substantial net is necessary. This Frabill Power measures 36 inches from the top of the loop to the yoke and 30 inches across. The 4 foot telescope handle is not for lifting the fish. It's only for reaching the fish in the water. Once in the net, the net/fish is lifted by grasping the netting. A 60 pound COW may take two fishermen to lift the fish onboard.

One might imagine that toteting lots of rods from the boat to the motel room and back is a bit much for a fossil my age. So, I modified a rod holder and put a set of wheels on one end. Grab the rods on the same end as the wheels, tip the cart and push it to where ya want it. Don't know about stairs yet.



































Now making a list and checking it twice, at least. New additions this year are a 7 cubic foot freezer, the Creek Bank 30 gallon bait tank, and the Honda EU2000 generator. I checked the ampere load of the boat onboard chargers and together they draw a max of 9 amperes. The Honda can supply 13 and will run 8 hours on one gallon of gasoline. The Mister Heater with squat propane tanks is also new on the boat this year. The Kiptopeke Inn may not be power friendly. Previous stops, they have a terribly smelly fish cleaning station along with a hose that can be used with a bucket. Maybe take my own hose to was down the boat?



Tried to rain today and slowed the boat/gear prep. Got some clothing gathered, but now need storage boxes to organize the gear. Only 14 days until departure.




Several BISC club members are interested in joining me for some COW fishing. Unfortunately, no one has committed to a date. Hopefully lots of BISC members join in the fun.



Friday evening and Bill Fowler and I are traveling to Kiptopeke Inn to evaluate the accommodations in the morning. Will be nice to have company along for the long drive. Kind of wish I had a smaller and more fuel efficient vehicle for this kind of trip. The idea is to check how the eel tank might be situated, how boat electric can be connected.



Tied a dozen leader set-ups this evening. Ball bearing swivel, about 30 inches of 40# flourocarbon leader and various size hooks from 5/0 to 10/0. Will make it easy to get rods set up at Kiptopeke and on the water. Found that the 100 pound ball bearing swivels are difficult to both tie with the polarmo and keep free of salt/corrosion. The 300 pound swivels are much easier to maintain. I think more attention with a reel lubricant like Real Magic will keep the swivels running free.

Joy's Do's and Don'ts

OK, here some preaching for the big event. Not the only words, but it should be understood.

Don't fish alone either in the boat or on the water. Do have a buddy boat that you keep in sight and/or in radio contact. Most BISC members on the water now use cell phones rather than announcing to the world what's going on with the fishing.

If hauling yer own boat, do have a spare hub kit, a spare tire, and recently lubed bearings. Be sure all lights work and disconnect the power before dunking in the salt. Rinse the boat, etc. with fresh water ASAP after loading the boat.

Be sure and do have required safety accessories (tossible and personal PFDs and fire extinguisher) and proper lights on the craft. Nothing can ruin yer day than to have a conservation officer write a heafty fine to spoil yer day.

Do use alcohol free gasoline and one station in Cape Charles has the stuff.

Do learn where Cape Charles launch is because at times it is impossible to load or launch a small boat from Kiptopeke. At times, storms drive sand quite deep onto the launch ramp and 4X4 drive may be necessary.

Do be cautious with wind greater than 11 mph out of the West, likely result in small craft warnings. Wind out of the East, North, and sometimes South may result in light seas at the concrete ships.

Don't venture near the CBBT islands unless you know how to handle the swift tide and have boat/motor enough for the situation.

Do record a GPS track that will guide your boat away from shoals, fish trap pilings, concrete ships, the beach, and back to the launch. You will get caught in a fog or dark on the bay, plan wisely. Again, DO have a buddy boat near.

What to read before heading to Kiptopeke?

Well, Rudow's Guide to Rockfish by Lenny Rudow is a great place to start. He fishes different techniques than the Buggs Island Striper Club developed over the years. Then, what works for me may not work for you.

GMCO's Southern Chesapeake Bay Chart might prove useful in learning where the shoals and channels are out of Kiptopeke State Park. Another is the ADC (The Map People) Chesapeake Bay Maryland and Virginia 8th edition or newer. Some consider this chart book both expensive and the best.

How many Pigs or Stripers each day?

Ramrod put Joy and Raymond Hansen into some decent pigs. Gotta love how Ramrod gets on the fish!


Hey fishermen, ya gotta be sure ya got a few things in order. Unless you are fishing with a licensed charter captain, ya need a license for the salt, a NOAA registration, and . . . we are fishing for COWs and Pigs, not CBBT schoolies. Meaning ya can only keep one striper 35 inches or greater each day. You cannot posess a striper between 28 and 34 inches. You can catch and release as you like. The slot for keepers is 18 to 27 inches each day. It's typical for stripers feeding on eels in December to be a minimum of 30#s and about 38 inches. A 40 inch C&R verified by a companion fisherman is worth a citation. 44 inches verified at a weigh station is also a citation. Any fish COW size is a citation. I'll leave this post open for comment as my memory may not be as good as I once was.


Fishermen cannot use a gaff on stripers. Rather, have a substantial net suitable for a 60# striped bass. My Frabill Power Catch measures 36 inches from the top to the yoke and 30 inches across. The handle telescopes and is 4'. A word of caution is "NEVER" try to lift a fish in the net as you would a shovel. Instead, always net the fish and then grasp the net material to lift the fish on board. In fact, with a COW, you might want help getting the critter over the rail. If ya do catch and release, a dehooker might be a wise investment as long as you learn how to use it. The lips on a striper can be tough. I have pliers suitable for grasping a hook. If ya intend to catch and release, be prepared to just cut the leader rather than injure the fish. I seem to remember that holding a cow from the lips will damage the internal organs of a striper. Rather, support the body of the striper at the head and vent.

Check out Chris' Bait and Tackle (757) 331 3000. Lots of great information, eels, tons of appropriate striper fishing gear. Well, hunting too if ya do both on the Eastern Shore.


Ramrod put Steve Smith on this monster striped bass, shown here with Ramrod and Joy at the Chris' Bait and Tackle weigh in. 58 1/4 pounds and 54 inches long.

It will be cold, colder, coldest . . .

While some periods in December on the Chesapeake can be very comfortable, please be prepared for less than 40 degree air temp. With wind, it will feel like "zero". My brother, Raymond Hansen is comfy because he removed his head gear for the photo. Even so, you can tell he's very happy with his and my keepers boated for the day. His, the larger is 44#s.

Insulated water proof calf high boots will keep yer feet dry. I like bib gortex outer wear and inner wear as needed. The hooded gortex outer jacket allows some flexibility by opening flaps and zippers. Some kind of great skull cap that may cover the face will help. Anytime the boat moves in cold weather, it's possible to freeze exposed skin. Ski goggles are strongly recommended to be worn when the boat moves at speed to the beginning of the drift. I sometimes use a sport mask.

Chemical wrist warmers might help keep fingers warm. Even a chemical warmer in a pocket will help.

What about drying wet boots, gloves, socks, etc. and Eels . . .

Saw a commercial version of what I prepared with PVC. Mine uses a standard hair drier and putting hot air inside gloves, socks, and boots makes them dry quickly.









The 3 bucket eel storage system works for a dozen or two eels. The bottom bucket in my system has a Creek Bank Bait Spa, available from Core Tackle. This is more than an aerator. It filters, circulates water with a 300 gph pump and adds micro bubbles to the water flow. The next upper level bucket has holes to allow the aerated water to circulate around the eels. Eels can survive without water, but not without aeration if in the water. They must be kept damp and cool. So, I have a second bucket with holes that add ice so the melting drips on the eels. I can leave the bottom with the spa home or in place to catch melting ice water, etc. Back home, I get water aerating and allow the eels to swim.

A cloth/towel works OK for grasping the eels; however, a paper towel works better. Important to grasp the eel just behind the head and hook through both lips from the bottom up. The colder ya keep the eels, the easier it will be to get them on the hook. Putting them directly on/in the ice may kill them. Best to keep the holes smaller than 3/8 inch in diameter. Cleaning the burrs may reduce eel sliming.



















If ya choose to buy eels in volume (like 100), be sure to bring along a bait tank, 12 volt battery, and charger to keep things running. Eels are slimy and need frequent filter change and cool temperatures. Ya may need a large frozen pop bottle to drop in with 'em to keep em comfortable. Aeration is critical!

What about the rod/reel?

While most any rod capable of handling 15-30 pound mono and having 7 foot along with a fast tip will work, I chose the various versions of the Ugly Stix (from striper, custom, catfish, etc.) Reels on the other hand need to have a quality drag, and have sufficient line capacity for handling the powerful runs of a COW striper. I bought several reels much to massive for the purpose, but something like the Shumano TLD15 Lever Drag works well for me. The spool can be set free with the clicker for some applications, moved to medium drag and or strike drag as preset before fishing. Usually the max drag is 1/4 the line test. While the line can be relatively light and still allow a quick landing of the fish for C&R, the leader must be substantial for larger fish. The gill plates can server line! I favor fluoro in the 40-50 pound range. Another reason I favor the larger weight ball bearing swivels is the pinch for the knot in the welded swivel eyelets. It's seldom a question of hangs on the bottom that would require lighter weight terminal leader. Yet, them damn crab pot and other rope debris can cause havoc and ruin a day's tackle.




The reel clamp is a critical accessory. Most any fish of Cow size can destroy a reel seat on the rod and drop the reel. Bluefish seem to be more adept at this even when much smaller that a striped bass.




I like the reels with the harness lugs so I have an option of using a tether to keep the rods on the boat. Sometimes, wind/wave/fish all combine to
make a rod jump into the debths.








Often, storage of rods in a motel or at home is difficult. I solved the problem by fabricating a rod holder from 1 1/2 inch PVC. Shown without wheels to allow moving the gear from the boat to the motel or into my home garage from the boat, soon, it will be wheeled. Can't leave tackle on boats as the rods/reels have legs as soon as it gets dark. I don't need more than 10 rods for Kiptopeke fishing. Yet, always need a spare rod just in case. I started by making one of these rod holders and ended up making 4 additional to keep all my rods secure.

Other ideas are to angle the vertical tubes to about 70 degrees to decrease the vertical height as some have 7 foot rods and motel ceilings are low. Works for me!

Why a planer?

Planer boards allow the baits to be spread wider than the boat. With two planers on each side, the water covered can be as much as 100 feet to each side of the boat. I chose this planer because it is large and works for the application. Eels can be huge and swim to the bottom with lots of vigor. It's necessary for striper fishng success to run with the tide/wind (drift) sometimes at 2 mph. This puts a lot of pressure on the blade and buoyant material of the planer. Small planers will SINK!

With this planer, the rod has a clip in the end that the line is sandwiched into. Before doing this, the line is looped and twisted, then the clip is pressed. This holds the line firmly most of the time. The loop/twist allows the pull of a fish to drop the line out of the clip. The lead to the bait is fastened in the clip. It's critical that a bead large enough to be held by the swivel snap be ahead of the ball bearing swivel. Nothing is worse than loosing a fish because the planer slid to the hook. I like the signal orange planers. I understand that Core Tackle has a great planer that is large and functions well. The closed pin like clip can be replaced with a plastic tube and plastic stopper like used in the cork set-up. Really, a supply of golf "Ts" does the job. I'll drill a small hole through the length of the golf "T" if it isn't already there. The plug must stay on the line unless ya want to take a bucket full of golf "Ts" on the boat. Just be sure the clip or tube hold the line securely for the weight of the eel and waves. You can waste a lot of time retrieving the planer and resetting it.

Again, there are as many variations of planers as there are fishermen.

What about the tackle for COWs?

Pictured is a 3 inch foam cork. The line is typically threaded through the foam, but doing so quicly damages the foam and the plug no longer holds the line properly. One solution is to drill a larger diameter hole through the cork and super glue a plastic tube in place. The black plug at the top plugs the tube and holds the mono that is folded back inside the tube. This and keeps the cork a selected distance from the bait as determined by how deep to fish the bait. When a substantial fish strikes, the fold pulls out of the tube and frees the cork to slide down to the fish. The grossly oversized ball bearing swivel is critical, though smaller can be used to prevent line twist. The beads help keep hooks/swivels from pulling through corks and other eyelets. The hook is a 10/0 Owner SSW Circle that has an offset that most of the time hooks the fish in the corner of the mouth and facilitates C&R. Gamakatsu Octopus Circle is another suitable hook. Size of hook depends on the eel size and is typically from 5/0 to 10/0. Four or more corks can be deployed at different distances to avoid tangles by elevating or pointing rods away from the beam. (Hint - retie all knots frequently, some do this each day. Be sure to wet every knot before it is pulled tight. The heat without lube can weaken the line.) The Polarmo is a knot of great strength and in proper sequence, all knots can be the same. Try http://www.powerpro.com/ to refresh tying knots essential for fishing. Wire leader or 60 pound fluoro may prevent gill plate cut offs. Hey, a good snell may also prevent the gill plate break off. Yet, I don't want to leave the impression that I favor braid for hefty COWs. Five to 8 pounds of drag will put a lot of tearing on the lips of a striper. The stretch of mono may provide a gentle pull as compared to braid that has NO stretch. Personally, I want to let the rod work on the fish with a reasonable drag that doesn't cause a break off.



The rod holder is the Pro Drift Master dual position made of 1/2 inch rod. These on the starboard side are locked from swiveling with a wing nut. Those on the port side must have a backup 1/2 inch stainless nut tightened with a wrench to keep the rod holder from turning under pressure. Get the right thread and problem solved. Purchase of a nut was less expensive.

The bottom of the eel tube is loose and can be elevated to meet the hooked end of the eel. The head of the eel slides to the top of the slot, the line is wrapped around the Drift Master, and the line taken up with the reel. The tube prevents the eel from drying while moving to a new drift location and also keep it from balling around most anything it touches. While I use a stainless steel cable tie to hold the loose ended tube, some secure both ends to the rail. Others just slip the eel in the tube and let it hang from the rod holder. Guess there are many suitable means. I don't favor buckets on the deck. I tried a single circle saw cut in 1" PVC last year and had trouble sliding the eel/hook. This year I'm using 1 1/4 inch PVC with a 1/4 inch slot. Might not work for late season small eels, but COWs like big eels!

Of course clean up of accessories is always necessary. Especially with use of slimy eels. I prefer one of them long thin brushes most use for cleaning out clothes driers. About 2 feet long with a large and small diameter. Pushed through the eel tubes with soapy boat wash does the trick.

Many ocean stripers are covered with sea lice when they enter the bay. Once a striper is boated, these critters crawl into everything. Likely there will be fish poop, blood, eel slime, etc. on the deck that will need cleaning. Be prepared . . .

Getting ready for the action

Getting started in fishing for a trophy COW striped bass at was forced on me by Mike Smedley, Team Old School by offering a free day at the Kiptopeke fishing ground for myself and daughter Deb Butler. Her PIG came the next day fishing with Lanny Parrott.

Yes, "Fish On" is a team effort and usually the skill and knowledge of the Captain of the boat!

Debbie wonders where to begin cleaning her prize?  The table is 5 feet long, to put the size of the fish in perspective.

All is well that ends well happily.  Deb remembers lots of stuff, but the celery?

Captain Smedley, Team Old School, is wondering where the 50 pound COWs that he encountered the previous day have gone.  Or was it a dream?

The SeaPro newly arrived at the homestead in Scottsburg, VA

Might not seem very exciting to bring a new boat home, but after you take a look at another blog

In the beginning, Joy dreamed a fishing boat.

THE SEAPRO UNDER COVER

<
> The pictured Sea Pro 21.5 is suitable for max 4 foot seas to be somewhat comfortable. Keeping in mind that a rogue 7 footer might be rising to challenge the best of captains. Up front, there's the Minn Kota Riptide trolling motor designed for the salt. It is outfitted with the i-Pilot for convenience. The outboard power is a Yamaha 150 6 cylinder 2 stroke (has a convenient hose connector to flush engine galleys). The T-top by Smith and Company is a great addition. A forward locker on the port is for fish and the one on the starboard is for gear. A live well sits in front of the console and behind the leaning seat. Rocket launch rod holders adequate for purpose, drift master rod holders also adequate for purpose. Eel tubes, Lowrance HDS8 sonar/gps with LSS-1 Structure Scan and raised relief graphic, NorthStar Explorer 721 marine radio, 2 12 volt batteries for the Trolling Motor, One 12 volt for the sonar/gps electronics, and two start batteries with Parker switch to keep one in reserve. All batteries (sealed) have onboard chargers. A backup Navman GPS sits on the console. A wish list is for a Lowrance broad band radar. The bay can be suddenly socked in with impossible fog.