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One Mosquito Lagoon Day Report

December 21, 2024 by · Leave a Comment

One Mosquito Lagoon Day Report

Thank you for reading this One Mosquito Lagoon Day Report. Shaky weather and errands important and less so kept me off the water the rest of the week.

For all you pagans, Saturday 12/21 marks the solstice. Start partying! The days will get longer from now until June!

Subscribers without photos- go to https://www.spottedtail.com/blog/, please.

Rodney the Cover Boy.

The inadequate eulogy to Rodney was posted, but the photos are fun.

I had to get blood work done Monday, and ran errands a good part of the day afterwards, trying to get them all done. Did not succeed.

Tuesday I loaded up the kayak and drove to Mosquito Lagoon. It was a beautiful day, just a touch breezy. The first spot produced a fat, top-of-the-slot trout on the second cast with the spin rod, 3″ shad. Immediately switched to the fly pole, got two more trout and a red blind-casting with a red-over-white Clouser Minnow, which was the fly du jour. I was wading here and at all the other spots but one. Bite stopped- on to the next spot.

The next spot coughed up four equally nice trout, all on fly. Bite stopped- keep moving.

The next place was fished from the kayak with the spin rod. Five trout, all larger than their predecessors.

The next place did not produce a thing. But the one after that produced a flounder, a ladyfish, a solid redfish and a small puffer.

The final spot gave up a half-dozen trout. So far, the day is pretty awesome.

I tried sight-fishing from the kayak on the way back, saw five reds, did not come close to getting a shot at any of them. But had zero reason to complain. The boat was loaded up around 1530.

That’s the One Mosquito Lagoon Day Report. As always, thanks for reading!

Every day is a blessing. Don’t waste it- Go fishing! Go paddling! Go for a walk! Stay active!

John Kumiski
www.johnkumiski.com
www.spottedtail.com
www.spottedtail.com/blog

All content in this blog, including writing and photos, © John Kumiski 2024. All rights are reserved.

Filed Under: central florida destinations, Mosquito Lagoon Fishing Report, Paddle Fishing Florida · Tagged: , ,

A Eulogy for Rodney

December 19, 2024 by · Leave a Comment

A Eulogy for Rodney

This describes Rodney well.

We lost a good man when James Rodney Smith passed on Wednesday, December 11. Better people than me are going to miss him, a lot. He was always trying to expand his circle of influence, so he touched many people’s lives in positive ways.

Rodney the tree hugger.

Rodney is survived by his wife, Karen; four children, Elise, Lauren, James, and Jake; and a grand-daughter, Deveney. Rodney was a husband, father, and grandfather, a friend, writer, book author, conservationist, philosopher, surfer, gardener, fisherman, yogi, and probably other things I don’t even know about. He liked candy!

Rodney and my son Maxx with a St. Johns River shad double.

 

We had a heck of a tarpon day together. This fish jumped into the boat.

We met nearly 40 years ago, at a Backcountry Fly Fishing Association meeting in Melbourne. Unusual for me, I liked him instantly. He just seemed genuine, a read that was borne out over the years. Rodney wasn’t one to put on airs. That night, he wanted to know how he could start writing. I told him to contact The Fisherman Weekly. The rest is history!

Yes, it was good.

 

Rodney the Cover Boy.

Rodney had many good ideas. He started Anglers for Conservation, the group that puts on the Hook Kids on Fishing programs. If you have ever seen a PVC pipe for discarded fishing lines at a boat ramp, thank Rodney and Lisa Souto, director of the Marine Resources Council, for coming up with that idea. He started Coastal Angler Magazine. He got the Indian River Guide’s Association off the ground, for a few years, at least. His most recent project, other than his book series, was Hook Kids on Gardening. I know I’m forgetting stuff, a lot of stuff, here.

Rodney loved the Banana River Lagoon…

 

…and the beach.

We had many adventures together. The first time he took me out on the Banana River Lagoon on the Mangle Tangle, we ran out of gas. Twice. And we didn’t catch anything, either. He made up for it through the years!

Sharing a pork leg.

 

With a Goodness River rainbow trout.

I helped him get a job at Goodnews River Lodge one summer. He came up for silver salmon season. The first thing he did when he got there was jump into the river! He told me afterward that he was shocked that the water was so painfully cold. No kidding, Rodney! It’s Alaska! We roomed together for five weeks. We survived it just fine, but there were a few times it put a strain on our friendship.

We started the paddle adventure with way too much stuff. Rodney had an eight-man tent!

 

Helping to cook dinner.

While we were there I watched him eat a Lindt bar like it was a mini-Snickers. A Lindt bar lasts me a week or two. He crushed it in five minutes. I thought it quite an amazing performance.

The finished product.

 

Grant Gilmore met us on the Indian River Lagoon.

Yes, we had many adventures together, with the IRL Paddle Adventure being the biggest after Alaska. We had talked for years about paddling the length of the Indian River Lagoon. Finally, during the spring of 2013, he said, “Yes! Let’s do it! When is the best time?” “Between Thanksgiving and Christmas,” I said. “OK. Start planning,” he said. So I started planning.

Keeping his journal on the paddle trip.

 

Practicing yoga on the paddle trip.

I planned for three or four people. He said, “No. Anyone who wants to can come, for any length of time they want.” I wanted to know how I was supposed to plan for that. He said, “Just plan for us. Everyone else will take care of themselves.” So that’s what we did. The resulting trip covered 19 days, 160 miles, had five people paddle the entire way, and had 30 or 40 or people join us, some for as little as 30 minutes, some for over a week. Folks from the community came out to talk with is, and fed us, and made us feel like we were doing a good thing. I’m glad we made that trip. Rodney and I were in a canoe together paddling for sixteen days, and were still friends at the end. He even lost the only Sage fly rod I ever had, and we were still friends.

Sharing some navigation pointers with Nick Colantonio.

 

Rodney and me in the canoe.

 

The through-paddlers- Mike Conneen, Rodney, Nick Colantonio, Bones, and me, with Mim Duncan, who was with us for seven or eight days, in the  middle.

 

Casting to a tailing red. It tried to make off with his rod.

Rodney had many great moments as an angler, but to me the most memorable one happened on a no motor zone trip with Tom Van Horn. Tom paddled Rodney to a tailing redfish. Rodney hooked it, but then dropped the rod into the water. It immediately started water skiing as the fish responded to being tethered. Rodney jumped out of the canoe and chased the rod down, splashing through the water like a crazed hippo, and still caught that fish. It was as big as they get that size! Hilarious!

He got the fish. “It’s as big as they get, this size!”

One time he and I were fishing with a guide at Lake Calcasieu in Louisiana, where folks eat most anything. The guide managed to hook a comb jelly on a treble hook. Rodney said, “Say, let me see that.” The guide handed Rodney the lure, and Rodney sucked that jelly off the hook and swallowed it. The guide was big-eyed, flabbergasted. He finally managed to ask Rodney what it tasted like. “Saltwater jelly!” he said. “What else would it taste like?”

More recently, we were supposed to go to Eleuthera together. I had purchased the plane tickets. Less than a week to departure, he had his second stroke, which put the kabosh on our plan. When he recovered, he still wanted to go. I told him, “Rodney, I’m afraid to go with you. What if you have another stroke over there?”

I guess we’ll never have that adventure in this earthly plane. I’ll have to wait to see him in heaven.

Like all of us, Rodney had his flaws, but overwhelmingly, he was such a good person, the kind of man you meet only once or twice in a lifetime. Unique. Real. Honest. Awesome. It was a blessing counting Rodney as a friend.

And you know who one of them is.

And what a legacy it is to be remembered — and truly, dearly missed — by those who love you. To be remembered because of love. Rodney will be remembered for a long, long time by all of us who loved him.

Thank you for reading this eulogy for Rodney Smith.

 

– John Kumiski

Filed Under: opinion, Photo Essays, Uncategorized · Tagged: , ,

Ten Thousand Islands Report and Photo Essay

December 14, 2024 by · Leave a Comment

Ten Thousand Islands Report and Photo Essay

Thank you for reading this Ten Thousand Islands Report. I spent time in south Florida gathering information for this report. You can thank me later!

Subscribers without photos- go to https://www.spottedtail.com/blog/, please.

I’m sure someone with waders wants to know what happened with my FlexSeal experiment. First off, FlexSeal ought to be illegal. The stuff that comes out of that can is NASTY! On the other hand, what comes out of my car’s exhaust pipe is nasty, too. But, I digress. I sprayed down a beater, leaky pair of Simms waders with FlexSeal and let them dry. Then I wore them every day in the Ten Thousand Islands. They behaved differently (FlexSeal isn’t all that flexible), and I don’t think they’re breathable any more, but they kept me drier than they did when they were leaky. Score one for being cheap. Hopefully they’ll last the winter.

On November 30, I drove to Monument Lake campground, where I rendezvoused with Mike Conneen. The next morning, we launched our kayaks at Port of the Islands and paddled seven miles out to the Gulf, some of it against the tide, into the Ten Thousnd Islands National Wildlife Refuge. We camped at White Horse Key. Wading that evening, I got two nice snook using spin tackle and a DOA Shrimp.

 

And killer colors in the sky, to boot!

In the morning, the tide was out- way out. Even with kayaks, we weren’t going anywhere.

The tide was way out.

 

River wanted to go fishing.

When the tide started coming in, I went wading, and got another snook with a 3-inch plastic shad. Mike made his getaway when the water got up enough, but I kept wading, this time with a fly rod. I watched a dark shape that looked like a small permit chase down and eat my fly. It turned out to be a sheepshead, the only one I’ve ever caught with a fly.

Sheepie on fly- my first one ever.

The wind got to be too much (the reason I wasn’t kayaking in the first place), so I switched to spin, and got another snook on a DOA Shrimp. Hooray for the Shrimp!

The next morning we were stuck again by the low tide. We packed up, and when the water came in enough, we moved to Panther Key. At the point of the island, two ladyfish and two reds fell for a Rattle Rouser cast blindly, and a trout took a Culprit 4″ Mullet.

Red on a Rattle Rouser.

 

Morning came. The tide was low. We used driftwood as skids and got the boats in the water. Mike sightcast to a pair of snook and landed a beauty, the fish of the trip. He was also using the 4″ Culprit Mullet.

Yeah. Nice fish!

Our last day there had the best weather and the worst fishing. Mike got a nice red, using a Vudu Shrimp. I got a lizardfish on a 3″ Shad. I went most of the day without a bite until finding a trout slick, where four slot fish were caught in 20 minutes on the 3″ Shad. In the meantime, Mike found his own trout hole, where it was “…a fish on every cast…” according to his report.

Yeah. Another nice fish!

 

Sunset was nice, too.

 

Home, sweet home.

Friday morning we packed up and fought the tide the entire way back to Port of the Islands, arriving there fairly spent. Mike left for home the next day. I went to the Swamp Heritage Festival, then headed to Long Pine Key in Everglades National Park, where I spent two nights.

Dawn at Long Pine.

 

In a mangrove tunnel.

 

Roots!

Sunday found me in a favorite paddling spot near Flamingo. My first fish was a snook on the 3″ Shad, and it was a nice one! Then a long dry spell happened, broken only by a single snooklet.

A fine snook.

After getting on a lee shore, I saw a fish blow up on some mosquitofish. Paddling over, I spotted the fish and dropped a Krebs Popper nearby. The fish blew up on it and finally I had a snook on fly for the trip.

Krebs Popper snook.

Then the heavens opened up, piscatorially speaking. On the way back to the pull-out, snook after snook hit the 3″ Shad. Most were small, but there were a couple decent ones. Finally, something ate it that meant business.

I was in a narrow place, trying to play the fish, keep the boat out of the mangroves, and get pictures, all at the same time. The fish must have sensed my lack of concentration, since it dove under the boat with conviction. It was as close as I’ve ever come to capsizing the kayak, and it was really close. The fish, a tarpon not all that big, was caught, photographed, and released, the final fish of a pretty amazing trip.

The guy who almost capsized me.

 

Quarter-moon and pine tree.

That evening found me at a marsh near the Anhinga Trail, trying to get sunset pictures. I heard fish popping and decided to try fishing there in the morning, which was done. It was a lovely paddle through the marsh, but there were no fish- it was quite shallow. Never figured out what that popping noise was. After a couple hours, I returned to the car and loaded things up for the drive home.

At the fishless marsh.

When I pulled off the buff, something stung my forehead. My hat had a trout fly in it from the trip to Montana. The fly had stung me. Now the hat was pinned to my head by the fly- caramba! There was no one around. Figure this one out, John.

Examination in the car mirror showed the hook (size 14) had gone in and come out again. I was truly hooked. The hat and the fly needed to be separated, so with pliers in one hand holding the hook shank, and a pocketknife in the other, I sawed a small hole in the hat and was able to pull it off the fly. Then the barb of the hook was crushed, although it maybe was crushed in the first place, it was impossible to tell. With the hat out of the way, the hook was easily removed. After returning to the campsite and showering, I drove home.

But I photographed the dwarf cypress forest on the way out!

Upon arrival I found a text on my phone from Karen Smith. Rodney was in the hospital, in the ICU. I called her Wednesday morning. She was crying- he wasn’t doing well. She sent me a text that evening, that he’d “passed peacefully, surrounded by family.” I’ll be writing a eulogy, soon. It made me very sad. Rest in peace, my friend.

That’s the Ten Thousand Islands Report. As always, thanks for reading!

Every day is a blessing. Don’t waste it- Go fishing! Go paddling! Go camping! Stay active!

John Kumiski
www.johnkumiski.com
www.spottedtail.com
www.spottedtail.com/blog

All content in this blog, including writing and photos, © John Kumiski 2024. All rights are reserved.

Filed Under: Fishing Reports, Paddle Fishing Florida, Photo Essays · Tagged: , , , , , , , ,

Two Days on Mosquito Lagoon Report

November 29, 2024 by · Leave a Comment

Two Days on Mosquito Lagoon Report, and the last TAF Update

Thank you for reading this Two Days on Mosquito Lagoon Report, and the last TAF Update. I fished Monday and Wednesday. Tuesday we had the tree work done, in order to maintain the domestic tranquility. Thanksgiving we ate excessively, like good Americans! The Assistance Fund got some more donations, and the fund-raiser is over!

There will not be a report next week. Sorry.

Subscribers without photos- go to https://www.spottedtail.com/blog/, please. And speaking of photos- these are from my files, since I didn’t carry a camera this week, again.

A huge THANK YOU to all TAF donors, by name and in no particular order-

-Laura Rice
-Ed Perry
-Dean Altenhofen
-Anonymous
-Walt Sheppard
-Earl Gillespie
-Ken Shannon
-Emily Nelson
-Kelly Holz
-Curtis Duffield
-Michelle Wilm
-Anonymous
-Marcia Foosaner
-Nicholas Colantonio
-Stephen Truscott
-Stephen Butrym
-Jorge Hidalgo
-John Harrison
-Henrique DePaiva
-Anonymous
-Anonymous
-Lisa Pello
-Anonymous
-Lynda Wehmeyer
-James Roberts
-Ralph Tedesco
-Cheryl Kumiski
-Lars Lutton
-Lori Markoff
-Thomas Van Horn
-Jim Tedesco
-Roger Cook

This is quite a list, a bunch of generous, selfless people. We have raised $3,828,00 over 33 donations, 77 percent of my goal, and thank you, thank you, thank you again! Great job!

I didn’t reach my $5000 goal with the fundraiser, but I’d never done a fundraiser and didn’t really think I could reach it. I aimed high! The late advertising executive Leo Burnett had a famous quote- “If you reach for the stars, you might not make it, but you won’t come up with a handful of mud either.” Thanks to all the donors for keeping me out of the mud.

Fishing

Monday

Went kayaking on Mosquito Lagoon. In the morning it was chilly. I wore my old beater waders. They leaked, badly. I’m experimenting by coating them with Flex-Seal. If it doesn’t work, in the trash they go!

My first fish was a mangrove snapper, a rather unusual catch from Mosquito Lagoon. It, and the several fish that followed, took a grizzly Seaducer. What were those fish, you ask? I will tell you! Two crevalle jacks, (rather small), two spotted seatrout (decent ones, high slot), a snook (dinker) and a puffer. All at the first spot! I’m out less than an hour and already have five species, all on fly.

Several more trout and two more puffers took that fly. The last puffer was more than it could take, and it now lives in the dead fly bag.

On my spin rod I had the amputated DOA Shrimp you may have read about in the last report. That bait fooled several more trout, a reasonably-sized snook (22″ or so), two redfish, and a ladyfish, I wanted a black drum for some kind of bizarre ultimate slam, but never saw one. Another puffer pretty much finished the amputated DOA Shrimp. Boat was loaded around 1500.

The baits of choice on Monday. Pretty motley, but the fish didn’t care.

The weather was fantastic, lots of fish were caught, an altogether wonderful day.

Wanted to fish Tuesday, but, the tree crew. Awesome weather, again.

This guy was VERY athletic.

Wednesday

Caleb Vogl joined me, same place on Mosquito Lagoon. Again, the weather was fantastic. I didn’t wear waders because the Flex-Seal experiment had not concluded.

The first fish I saw was a tailing red. When I cast to it, my backcast wrapped around Caleb’s rod. Why he was in my back pocket was unclear. I may have been a little grouchy about it. He got me untangled eventually, and to my amazement the fish was still there! I laid a cast on him, he ate, and was released a few minutes later. It was the only fish I got on fly, mostly because I didn’t use the fly rod again.

The spin rod had a DOA Bait Buster tied onto the leader. My next fish was a fat trout that ate it. After that I switched to a DOA Shrimp. That lure should go into the lure hall of fame. It fooled a dozen or so trout that all hovered around 20 inches, a 22 inch snook, and 15 or so jacks. At the one spot they were camped at, they were thick enough I got one on almost every cast until the novelty of “a fish on every cast” wore off. And the puffers mangled it, of course. Boat was loaded about 1430.

That’s the Two Days on Mosquito Lagoon Report. As always, thanks for reading!

Again, no report next week!

Every day is a blessing. Don’t waste it- Go fishing! Go paddling! Go for a walk! Stay active!

John Kumiski
www.johnkumiski.com
www.spottedtail.com
www.spottedtail.com/blog

All content in this blog, including writing and photos, © John Kumiski 2024. All rights are reserved.

Filed Under: Fishing Reports, Mosquito Lagoon Fishing Report · Tagged: , ,

Two Days, Two Lagoons Report

November 23, 2024 by · Leave a Comment

Two Days, Two Lagoons Report, and a Penultimate TAF Update

Thank you for reading this Two Days, Two Lagoons Report, and a Penultimate TAF Update. I fished Monday and Tuesday. Wednesday we had someone come look at our trees- they need some trimming. The rest of the week was way too blowy for realistic fishing. The Assistance Fund got some more donations!

Subscribers without photos- go to https://www.spottedtail.com/blog/, please. And speaking of photos- these are from my files, since I didn’t carry a camera this week.

And lest I forget, wonderful wishes from me to thee for a perfect Thanksgiving.

A huge THANK YOU to all TAF donors, by name and in no particular order-

-Laura Rice
-Ed Perry
-Dean Altenhofen
-Anonymous
-Walt Sheppard
-Earl Gillespie
-Ken Shannon
-Emily Nelson
-Kelly Holz
-Curtis Duffield
-Michelle Wilm
-Anonymous
-Marcia Foosaner
-Nicholas Colantonio
-Stephen Truscott
-Stephen Butrym
-Jorge Hidalgo
-John Harrison
-Henrique DePaiva
-Anonymous
-Anonymous
-Lisa Pello
-Anonymous
-Lynda Wehmeyer
-James Roberts
-Ralph Tedesco
-Cheryl Kumiski
-Lars Lutton
-Lori Markoff
-Thomas Van Horn

This is quite a list, a bunch of generous, selfless people. We have raised $3,398.60 over 30 donations, 68 percent of my goal, and thank you, thank you, thank you again! Great job!

The fundraiser link if you’re motivated to donate (Please!)- https://giving.tafcares.org/-/NVCCHJED?member=SPEXUGER The fundraiser ends November 24, so it’s not too late to donate. If you do it right now!

As a reminder, the Assistance Fund helps underinsured people living with life-threatening, chronic, illness obtain treatment and medicine by providing financial assistance for their copayments, coinsurance, deductibles, and other health-related expenses.
————————————————–

Fishing

Monday

Three trout were fatties like this.

I drove the kayak to, what for me, was a new spot on the Mosquito Lagoon, launching at about 0730. It was pretty good! The first fish I got, on the Culprit Mullet, was a trout about 18 inches. Then I saw a tail, briefly. A cast resulted in a strike and a top-of-the-slot redfish.

After that it was all trout, including three beautiful fish in the 25-inch range, one on a fly rod popper. The final fish was a slot red that hit a gold spoon. The way the puffers are, hard baits are the only way to go unless you own a lure company. The boat was loaded up about 1530.

Spoon-fed red!

Tuesday

found me launching the kayak in the Indian River Lagoon, at a spot I hadn’t seen in quite a while. There were redfish there, but they wouldn’t eat. In the morning it was too cloudy to see much. I would cast over an area, not get anything, then paddle over it and move three or four fish. This happened repeatedly. Frustrating! I tried soft plastics (puffers, puffers, puffers), a spoon, a fly rod popper, even a MirroLure, the first time in years I’ve used one of those. Nothing worked.

I tried a glow-in-the-dark DOA Shrimp, and got a snooklet. Then a monster trout ate it, right by the boat. Splashed water all over me, he did.

It’s nice when they pull drag, pull the kayak around.

Then another baby snook ate it- a monster trout followed him up to the boat. Maybe he was looking at the little snook as a snack? Then a puffer amputated the tail of the shrimp. I kept throwing it and got a slot trout. I put a smoke-colored DOA Shrimp on once the sun came out. A puffer amputated the tail. I kept throwing it. Now I could see the fish. I made good casts to four, who all snubbed me. I finally got one to bite the half-shrimp, and he came unbuttoned after about two seconds. And that was it, fish-wise. The boat was loaded up about 1330.

That’s the Two Days, Two Lagoons Report, and a Penultimate TAF Update. As always, thanks for reading!

Every day is a blessing. Don’t waste it- Go fishing! Go paddling! Go for a walk! Stay active!

John Kumiski
www.johnkumiski.com
www.spottedtail.com
www.spottedtail.com/blog

All content in this blog, including writing and photos, © John Kumiski 2024. All rights are reserved.

Filed Under: Fishing Reports, Mosquito Lagoon Fishing Report, Paddle Fishing Florida · Tagged: , , ,

One Day on the Indian River Lagoon

November 16, 2024 by · Leave a Comment

One Day on the Indian River Lagoon, and a TAF Update

Thank you for reading this One Day on the Indian River Lagoon Report, and a TAF Update. I fished one day on the Indian River Lagoon, by kayak, with Caleb Vogl. The rest of the week was way too blowy for realistic fishing. The Assistance Fund got some more donations!

Subscribers without photos- go to https://www.spottedtail.com/blog/, please.

A huge THANK YOU to all the donors, by name and in no particular order-

-Laura Rice
-Ed Perry
-Dean Altenhofen
-Anonymous
-Walt Sheppard
-Earl Gillespie
-Ken Shannon
-Emily Nelson
-Kelly Holz
-Curtis Duffield
-Michelle Wilm
-Anonymous
-Marcia Foosaner
-Nicholas Colantonio
-Stephen Truscott
-Stephen Butrym
-Jorge Hidalgo
-John Harrison
-Henrique DePaiva
-Anonymous
-Anonymous
-Lisa Pello
-Anonymous
-Lynda Wehmeyer
-James Roberts
-Ralph Tedesco
-Cheryl Kumiski

This is quite a list, a bunch of generous, selfless people. We have raised $3,227.60 over 27 donations, 64 percent of my goal, and thank you, thank you, thank you again! Great job!

The fundraiser link if you’re motivated to donate (Please!)- https://giving.tafcares.org/-/NVCCHJED?member=SPEXUGER

As a reminder, the Assistance Fund helps underinsured people living with life-threatening, chronic, illness obtain treatment and medicine by providing financial assistance for their copayments, coinsurance, deductibles, and other health-related expenses.

The updates will continue every week until the fundraiser ends (at Thanksgiving), and of course if you’ve considered donating, it’s not too late!

—————————————————————-

Fishing

Tuesday Caleb joined me for an Indian River Lagoon excursion. I didn’t know what to expect, since I hadn’t been to this spot in a while. The water was too high for my tastes (a recurring theme this time of year), murky in some spots, lovely and clean in others. Based on what we could see and what we caught, most of it was fishless, even though there were plenty of glass minnows and mullet around.

The water level was around two feet. I like it around 0.5 feet. Eighteen inches of water makes a huge difference.

Caleb said he got a couple of nice trout, but I didn’t see or photograph them. We spent a lot of time pretty far apart. I got three snook on flies. The three of them together wouldn’t have made a decent sandwich.

I saw one redfish, one trout, and two black drum in five hours, and did not get a shot at any of them. My last couple fishing trips have been less than stellar.

I’ve been filling my time by tying flies for an upcoming trip, doing the never-ending yard work, and making Christmas presents.

Krebs poppers, my new secret weapon.

Friday I took a short walk at the Orlando Wetlands Park. The light was wonky, and there weren’t many critters about (not for that place, anyway). As I was walking, hunger pangs started, so I drove to Sunrise Bread Company and got a cinnamon roll. How self-indulgent of me.

It was that kind of morning…

 

The orb-weaver was pretty awesome, though.

 

Great blue heron.

 

Can you see the gator?

That’s the One Day on the Indian River Lagoon report. As always, thanks for reading!

Every day is a blessing. Don’t waste it- Go fishing! Go paddling! Go for a walk! Stay active!

John Kumiski
www.johnkumiski.com
www.spottedtail.com
www.spottedtail.com/blog

All content in this blog, including writing and photos, © John Kumiski 2024. All rights are reserved.

Filed Under: Fishing Reports ·

From Couch to Country: A Pet Lover’s Guide to Digital Nomadism

November 9, 2024 by · Leave a Comment

From Couch to Country: A Pet Lover’s Guide to Digital Nomadism

A Guest Blog by Julia Mitchell.

Embarking on the digital nomad lifestyle with your pet offers an unparalleled opportunity for freedom and bonding. It requires thoughtful preparation to ensure both you and your pet’s needs are met while on the move. This lifestyle allows you to explore new cultures and destinations with your faithful companion by your side. Today, Spotted Tail Outdoors and Travel shares some tips to help you better navigate the joys and challenges of living and working remotely in a constantly changing environment.

Preparing Your Pet for Life on the Road

Know International Pet Travel Rules

When traveling abroad with your pet, familiarize yourself with the entry regulations of each country you plan to visit. Most destinations require proof that your pet is vaccinated, especially against rabies. Be aware of varying quarantine measures, which can last from a few days to months. Advance research helps avoid unexpected hurdles at border control, ensuring a smooth entry for you and your pet.

Equip Your Pet with Comfortable Travel Gear

Ensure your pet’s comfort and safety during travel with appropriate gear. Choose a durable, airline-approved carrier that provides both ventilation and protection from the elements. Essential items like portable bowls, pet wipes, and a cozy blanket will keep your pet hydrated, clean, and comfortable on your journey.

Choose Pet-Friendly Destinations

Research destinations that are conducive to pets, focusing on those with pet-friendly facilities like hotels, parks, and eateries. Opt for locations offering green spaces for your pet to play and relax. Many tourist spots now accommodate pets in various social settings, enhancing the travel experience for both of you. Selecting pet-welcoming places reduces stress and enriches your digital nomad lifestyle.

Protect Your Pet with Comprehensive Insurance

Consider international pet insurance to handle unexpected health issues while abroad. These plans offer worldwide coverage, making it easier to obtain necessary veterinary care without financial strain. Tailored to the needs of nomadic pet owners, such policies ensure that your pet can receive prompt and adequate treatment during emergencies. Comprehensive insurance provides peace of mind as you explore new borders with your pet.

Building a Sustainable Digital Nomad Career

Boost Your Credentials with an Online Business Degree

Earning an online business management degree can significantly enhance your marketability in a competitive job landscape. Seek out programs that provide a flexible curriculum, focusing on key competencies like strategic planning, leadership, and management. These online degrees empower students to dictate the pace of their learning, alleviating the stress of balancing academic, professional, and personal responsibilities. Such flexibility is ideal for those who need to coordinate education with travel or family commitments.

Create a Professional Remote Work Portfolio

Develop a professional portfolio to effectively display your remote work capabilities. It should feature a collection of your best work, particularly projects that you’ve managed remotely, to demonstrate your ability to operate independently. Tailor your portfolio to highlight skills relevant to remote roles across various fields like writing or web development. A well-crafted portfolio increases your chances of securing remote work that aligns with a nomadic lifestyle.

Hone Essential Remote Work Skills

Prioritize acquiring skills in high-demand areas like digital marketing, graphic design, and coding to succeed as a digital nomad. Engage with platforms that offer current courses in these skills to keep up with industry trends and enhance your professional toolkit. These abilities increase your employability and provide opportunities to take on diverse roles that support your nomadic lifestyle. Mastering these skills ensures you are well-prepared to capitalize on remote work opportunities.

Secure Reliable Income Streams

To sustain a digital nomad lifestyle, secure reliable sources of income. Explore freelancing, consulting, or positions with companies that embrace remote work. Utilize freelance marketplaces and remote job boards to connect with ongoing projects or secure long-term employment. A stable income allows for financial freedom and peace of mind, enabling you and your pet to enjoy an adventurous, fulfilling life on the move.

Adopting a nomadic lifestyle with your pet transforms every day into an adventure filled with unexpected learning and growth. It reinforces the bond between you as you both adapt to new surroundings and experiences. With the right preparation and mindset, this journey can be as rewarding as it is exciting. Your pet doesn’t just accompany you; they enrich every step of the way.

 

Julia Mitchell, incredibly passionate about the activities that fill her days, wants to share her adoration for her favorite lifestyle topics with the world and encourage others to turn their INspiration into OUTspiration.

 

 

Filed Under: Guest Blogs · Tagged: , ,

One Day on Mosquito Lagoon, and a TAF Update

November 9, 2024 by · Leave a Comment

One Day on Mosquito Lagoon, and a TAF Update

Thank you for reading this One Day on Mosquito Lagoon Report, and a TAF Update. I fished one day on the Mosquito Lagoon, by kayak. The rest of the week was way too blowy for realistic fishing. The Assistance Fund got some more donations!

Julia Mitchell has a great guest blog this week- A Pet Lover’s Guide to Digital Nomadism. Check it out!

Subscribers without photos- go to https://www.spottedtail.com/blog/, please. Don’t bother- no photos this week- the camera was left at home.

A huge THANK YOU to all the donors, by name and in no particular order-

-Laura Rice
-Ed Perry
-Dean Altenhofen
-Anonymous
-Walt Sheppard
-Earl Gillespie
-Ken Shannon
-Emily Nelson
-Kelly Holz
-Curtis Duffield
-Michelle Wilm
-Anonymous
-Marcia Foosaner
-Nicholas Colantonio
-Stephen Truscott
-Stephen Butrym
-Jorge Hidalgo
-John Harrison
-Henrique DePaiva
-Anonymous
-Anonymous
-Lisa Pello
-Anonymous
-Lynda Wehmeyer
-James Roberts

We have raised $2,205.90 over 25 donations, 42 percent of my goal, and thank you, thank you, thank you again! Great job!

The fundraiser link if you’re motivated to donate (Please!)- https://giving.tafcares.org/-/NVCCHJED?member=SPEXUGER

As a reminder, the Assistance Fund helps underinsured people living with life-threatening, chronic, illness obtain treatment and medicine by providing financial assistance for their copayments, coinsurance, deductibles, and other health-related expenses.

The updates will continue every week until the fundraiser ends (at Thanksgiving), and of course if you’ve considered donating, it’s not too late!

Fishing

After four days of 20 knot winds, it was to calm down on Friday. So I loaded the kayak onto the chariot and drove over, dropping the boat into the water around 8 AM. As I was prepping, it was impossible to ignore the school of mullet fleeing in terror by the nearest spoil island. I paddled over and got bit on the first cast. I like to think that I ain’t superstitious (a great song on Jeff Beck’s first album), but man, that bite on the first cast is never a good thing. This fish meant business, too- I figured it was at least ten pounds. It was tearing line of the reel, making that Zzzzz-Zzzz-Zzzz noise that anglers so love. It turned out to be a crevalle of 2-3 pounds, foul-hooked at the base of the pectoral fin, where its leverage was much greater than if it had been hooked in the mouth.

Five minutes later his twin bit the Culprit Mullet, and I got him, too. It was much easier, since this one was hooked in the mouth.

And that was it, almost for the rest of the outing. I did see two redfish, and did just before loading up catch a snooklet on a Krebs Popper tossed with the fly pole. It was mostly watching out for manatees, and watching dolphins and the occaisional blowup by jacks (almost had one crash into the kayak as it single-mindedly pursued a terrified mullet). A manatee skull, complete with mandible, was found. It’s still there.

The water seemed higher than last week, and was certainly more turbid. Probable cause of the turbidity, those 20-knot winds all week. Sightfishing was impossible for all practical purposes. Boat was back on the car about 130 PM.

That’s the One Day on Mosquito Lagoon report, and a TAF Update. As always, thanks for reading!

Every day is a blessing. Don’t waste it- Go fishing! Go paddling! Go for a walk! Stay active!

John Kumiski
www.johnkumiski.com
www.spottedtail.com
www.spottedtail.com/blog

All content in this blog, including writing and photos, © John Kumiski 2024. All rights are reserved.

Filed Under: Fishing Reports · Tagged: ,

North IRL System Report

November 1, 2024 by · Leave a Comment

North IRL System Report and a TAF Update

Thank you for reading this North IRL System Report and a TAF Update. I fished one day in the Indian River Lagoon and two days in the Mosquito Lagoon, by kayak. The Assistance Fund also got some more donations, thank you very much.

Also, Julia Mitchell has another excellent guest blog on Living as a Digital Nomad!

Subscribers without photos- go to https://www.spottedtail.com/blog/, please.

A huge THANK YOU to all the donors to The Assistance Fund, by name and in no particular order-

-Laura Rice
-Ed Perry
-Dean Altenhofen
-Anonymous
-Walt Sheppard
-Earl Gillespie
-Ken Shannon
-Emily Nelson
-Kelly Holz
-Curtis Duffield
-Michelle Wilm
-Anonymous
-Marcia Foosaner
-Nicholas Colantonio
-Stephen Truscott
-Stephen Butrym
-Jorge Hidalgo
-John Harrison

We have raised $1,650.60 over 18 donations, 33 percent of my goal, and thank you, thank you, thank you again! Great job!

The fundraiser link if you’re motivated to donate (Please!)- https://giving.tafcares.org/-/NVCCHJED?member=SPEXUGER

As a reminder, the Assistance Fund helps underinsured people living with life-threatening, chronic, illness obtain treatment and medicine by providing financial assistance for their copayments, coinsurance, deductibles, and other health-related expenses.

The updates will continue every week until the fundraiser ends (at Thanksgiving), and of course if you’ve considered donating, it’s not too late!

———————————————————–

OK, Fishing!

I wish I had better news.

Tuesday

found me paddling on the Indian River Lagoon. The water was high and brown. There were quite a few mullet around, and occasionally something large would blow up on them. I tried my 3″ shad, a DOA Bait Buster, and what is for me a new lure, the 4″ Culprit Mullet. I fooled a juvenile snook with the shad and got a ladyfish on a Clouser Minnow, and missed a couple half-hearted bites. Whatever was blowing up on that bait ignored my offerings completely.

After pulling the kayak out (it got pretty windy, a theme that continued through the week), I drove down Route 3, checking spots for future reference. At one, I couldn’t help but notice what looked like baby tarpon rolling. I pulled out the fly pole, put on a little Crease Fly (thank you, Joe Blados!) and proceeded to catch three baby tarpon in succession, then missed several more. A fun (for me, not the fish) 30 minutes that salvaged the day. But I did not find any spots that looked more fishy than anything I’d seen earlier that day.

The Crease Fly, invented by Joe Blados. Mine look somewhat less polished.

Something I re-observed about tarpon-
Tarpon of any size that have not been fished are very aggressive. It doesn’t take them long to smarten up! The three I caught were my first three bites. After that, the bites were more hesitant, and then they stopped altogether. All in about 30 minutes! I’ve noticed this before in similar situations. Perhaps they communicate with each other somehow, possibly chemically, or perhaps you just catch the aggressive ones and the rest are more timid. Generally, if you move a short distance, the same pattern repeats.

Yeah, they were babies.

Wednesday

I launched at River Breeze. While driving over there, I was fairly enamored over the lovely, razor-thin crescent of the nearly new moon, just beautiful. Upon arriving at the lagoon, I was also struck by the richness of the bird life. But the water was high and brown. I paddled about five miles in four hours, only seeing a single redfish. The most exciting thing that happened was an osprey swooped down on that Culprit Mullet, thinking about diving on it, as I retrieved it. Fortunately he pulled up when he was about a foot off the water- I don’t want to have to unhook any birds of prey!

Sadly, no bites happened to disturb the bird-watching. When the wind started pushing near 20, I bagged it, a total skunking with nary a nibble.

Thursday

was blowing hard from the get-go. I did not fish.

Friday

found me paddling and wading at Mosquito Lagoon. I went to the shallowest place I could find, and unbelievably there were some fish there. The first fish I saw elicited both disbelief and elation, especially when it took the slider. The scene repeated twice, and I got another red and a beautiful, fat trout by blind casting with a Clouser Minnow. Then the wind started honking, and I loaded up after enjoying much better fishing than expected.

More than I expected…

 

…especially when he showed up.

The NOAA forecast for Monday through Wednesday here is east at 15-20 knots. May not be fishing much!

Every day is a blessing. Don’t waste it- Go fishing! Go paddling! Go for a walk! Stay active!

John Kumiski
www.johnkumiski.com
www.spottedtail.com
www.spottedtail.com/blog

All content in this blog, including writing and photos, © John Kumiski 2024. All rights are reserved.

Filed Under: Fishing Reports, Mosquito Lagoon Fishing Report, Paddle Fishing Florida · Tagged: , , , , , , ,

Your Guide to a Digital Nomad Life in an RV

October 30, 2024 by · Leave a Comment

Your Guide to a Digital Nomad Life in an RV

Image via Freepik

A Guest Blog by Julia Mitchell.

The allure of a life untethered, exploring the world while maintaining a livelihood, is a dream for many. Swapping a static residence for a home on wheels might seem like a bold move, but it can also be the gateway to boundless opportunities.

This guide to a digital nomad life in an RV from Spotted Tail Outdoors and Travel aims to equip aspiring nomads with essential strategies and actionable insights to make this transformative life choice a reality. The focus will be on important aspects such as determining the fate of your existing home, establishing an online presence, choosing an appropriate mobile abode, and more.

Deciding What to Do With Your Home

Before setting your sights on the open road, it is crucial to decide what to do with your current residence. Weigh the pros and cons of selling versus renting it out.

Selling might offer a quick financial boost, but renting provides a steady income stream and can enable you to return to your home when you want to be off the road. Renting out your property allows you to maintain a valuable asset that could appreciate over time, while still enjoying the flexibility of travel.

Invest in Digital Marketing

Digitally marketing yourself and your work as a digital nomad is crucial for attracting clients and building a strong online presence. Start by creating a professional website that showcases your portfolio and services. Practice search engine optimization (SEO) to increase your visibility on search engines and drive organic traffic to your site. If you’re wondering how to advertise your business effectively, leverage social media platforms to connect with your audience, share your experiences, and promote your work.

Select a RV That Aligns with Your Budget

Equally crucial is the task of selecting an RV that suits both your needs and financial capabilities. A myriad of options exists, from minimalist models to luxurious vehicles, each with its set of amenities and specifications. Take into account the RV’s size, its fuel efficiency, and the facilities it offers. Remember, the mobile home will serve as both your living space and office, making it a dual investment.

Become Familiar with Contract Basics

Understanding contract basics is invaluable for freelancing digital nomads, as it provides a layer of protection and clarity when working with clients across different locations. Knowing how to outline payment terms, project scope, and deadlines ensures you and your clients are on the same page, reducing misunderstandings and securing your earnings. Many online resources offer guidelines on how to make a contract agreement, making it easier to draft basic contracts tailored to your work. Learning to write these agreements empowers you to manage your projects professionally and build trust with clients.

Master the Fundamentals of RV Driving and Upkeep

Before taking that inaugural journey, getting acquainted with the fundamentals of RV driving and maintenance is imperative. This involves understanding the vehicle’s technical aspects, such as its electrical, plumbing, and ventilation systems. Safety measures, including how to maneuver the RV in different terrains and weather conditions, are also essential knowledge. Equipping yourself with basic repair skills can save both time and resources in the long run.

Prioritize Cleanliness in Your Mobile Living Quarters

An organized and clean environment is essential for productivity and mental well- being. Instituting a regular cleaning regimen will make the mobile lifestyle more enjoyable and manageable. Designate specific places for essential items to ensure easy access. Moreover, consider investing in compact and multifunctional furniture to maximize the limited space without sacrificing comfort.

Explore Viable Employment Options

Even while exploring new places, sustaining income is paramount. Research prospective employment avenues that fit your skill set and preferences. Look for opportunities that allow flexibility to accommodate your travel schedule. Options could range from remote work and freelance opportunities to part-time employment in the localities you visit.

Opting for a life on the road as a digital nomad in an RV is a transformative decision that demands meticulous planning. From mastering the intricacies of mobile living to investing in digital marketing, each step requires careful consideration and preparation. Following these guidelines will aid in making this audacious lifestyle shift as smooth and rewarding as possible.

Embrace the promise of new experiences, diverse landscapes, and a unique work-life balance that only a mobile lifestyle can offer.

 

Julia Mitchell, incredibly passionate about the activities that fill her days, wants to share her adoration for her favorite lifestyle topics with the world and encourage others to turn their INspiration into OUTspiration.

Filed Under: Guest Blogs · Tagged: , , , , ,
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