tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23548998960864509692024-03-14T00:05:02.406-04:00MuskieBait AdventuresMuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.comBlogger230125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-47154203459507714562022-07-16T00:00:00.005-04:002022-08-10T20:54:10.802-04:00Europe 2022Pieter and Bart had extended an invite to show me some Dutch species for quite a few years. However, as travel anglers, our schedules rarely coincided to schedule a visit. It wasn't until a summer travel plan that involved a transfer in Europe enabled the opportunity to finally visit Netherlands for a few days. Special thank you to Pieter, Bart, Pascal and Sjors for sharing their time and knowledge with us. An addition thank you to Pieter for his hospitality for a nap and dine at his home before we drove to Belgium.
<p>
<h3>
Jul 16, 2022 - Amersfoort, Netherlands
</h3>
<p>
Flight delays were the norm of travel after COVID. With our flight delayed for almost 2 hours, we rushed to Amesfoort to meet with Bart. A quick croquette bite later, Bart suggested that we fish around Amersfoort for some smaller species in the afternoon. After dinner, we met up with Pieter to try for Zander. We only had one Zander bite all night and I was lucky to catch one.
<table>
<tr>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvwJeUTcvJ394Ef9iIqkBG-NC8gNOjz4PBryyqyR6x1rAJqaWC5snyYR_ozFqoEcX-1tWyaGIONtkpf3VVLZQXBzu1wY8Z8RcfKZUnul-pVxPpvf8JXgGbNkXhS1Dk8SW68tkJkhL62yOYWuWHevLugk5tQaI1fKarF2MondgynPoI8u9ruzO1pwZN/s370/Post_IMG_8764.JPG"/>
</td>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDOJFgr8xa9B5ZasT3kpnDszFO2JqmCBy4v52aqttLF8Y9g-FKdXU4qGXdPsHy8y9lf8Z-vrnyMDXgvgm6gOYStI_ooAr1sWi3aXIdo9DcNjN1I33p5Q7omw9Mr-xO7OC-qFPXl9r07RswGpfw4nENVYTLDkdMVRrm3-dytV11vpSW38GyErRf9kka/s370/Post_IMG_8769.JPG"/>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht50TEpGLlIhL3PsWKVYKzJAcOw9MyACsvisfCzTvhQmYL7VHCoRF6zdUG3a1qCh2VIKG2jnxF9BOq_8YJbG93wKa5VVP4QSxBIxFtZoBm7xCiHEEJIqwqkgeITicX3WtXX6b3mfL7OGNh1HCpBRv684kBz-_42A0CPBRl6bllAonEKv3-wrXM7hrV/s370/Post_IMG_1384.JPG"/>
</td>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCu09eyTVSsIju-_aDh0Uvb1GA4CaXmjzQG21lHCPlyKlAQHxY9S90-mcjrTYjjLlSDWDq5FghyeGQub4wqPVNQBjRpUR2IFb4iB91lWPNSZ-lcHASR5hdKYhJUkW6ogJUkXOpdLRRZoaqvauQSioYazMesVLo3vNZmT9UKAKw7oOg0qdVTviKoOwN/s370/Post_IMG_1392.JPG"/>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<p>
</p>
<table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 1058
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-u88bfZWSVMTc3xXKDnVmK1EClB_YSDc-r64tQiIad-9LcpXAxUcCvi2PBw_7F-8nKimSv0NJDRfStgKe85BD-KRuGSGAE8Nu6CuBEDc3-fKBF7HgG-bAUKNybvAWNrzQQKF_dGQaQTKEh0pLaCN1MIeWYBxHsXl-EPMexz8hLRqt4BXtGUVvpcrL/s240/Post_IMG_8696.JPG"/>
<br />
Leucaspius delineatus
<br />
Belica
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1059
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoKOE1xJygA6AOpJPfoBPslvRCdjF6zt-z5U1j1HMLBFIlsdQq57ROYOd0JXSwN61VHlwilRJiGsTbhB3zI2zMSp2S87Vk30Lna45X3uSC5tbHvYfiw8_aS_AvuedjuejRpDPzrNfkwR8NyY2S7AMDT748QnESjWnpvUS-pioBIKOZUwnQx0XO9jTf/s240/Post_IMG_8713.JPG"/>
<br />
Rutilus rutilus
<br />
Roach
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1060
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAA1HCaauk5vgriZE4cvFmoe18bzganErJ8TF5_ock0Jbzvyz1AcFB0lL_h3QLPWlARYxbgGGkbPRxvwjoLOAaWi6htyVJe0INSAJ6Gmj9oc7rr6shU-Za30Rj9wW4ojlJ-Qb9At9Dwrvop8_9Ze25NHbIIAmf6nSI_QZf4EbP48a4OymtpmwMqcqa/s240/Post_IMG_8719.JPG"/>
<br />
Alburnus alburnus
<br />
Bleak
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Species 1061
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzOBlDW7vGicIJ6omlqcjusUzZlqYmfo3O6LuuODxb7lkmrEqR93ryZNAKZw3IjkgHns9fNDBKKUgRA9N6Bc9UP6mrOdMhYKZ6CNPCNBEUdWh-RmmapJY2483lqCxHQRgsTqNwn296udpR1SRJWpSNTvow_ZgiWWCK0ycY_rVYYlYk7N43oJJiWWfH/s240/Post_IMG_8727.JPG"/>
<br />
Blicca bjoerkna
<br />
White Bream
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1062
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3pyujPFj-xl-xj3eqkiReuX2iUQaIBElcMJVlqz5lHfTzbkcbDWq0RrdOW-EWBFjwBabFF-m3M-9h74TLGKuRyMR-mmTcrZEmjuI2hBxz_0CFGSI9FCFdUw6nMzQgf7gB6aX0fjwIp6lldxDh-2RTlDtKq-OryzJPz4J4toiwdgFimCqwRNMdr5Sl/s240/Post_IMG_8743.JPG"/>
<br />
Sander lucioperca
<br />
Pike-Perch
<p>
</p></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr />
<h3>
Jul 17, 2022 - Amersfoort, Netherlands
</h3>
<p>
We tried to fish the River Waal today. It was not very productive and Bart was uncertain why the river bottom had an unusual amount of leaf litter that affected our fishing. Around dusk, which is around 10pm in the Netherlands, George was trying for an European Perch and I was trying for a Bream. Just as darkness fell, I caught a rare European Eel that was promptly released after a quick photo.
<table>
<tr>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA_UrhtDXP7wEaDQxKtoujDKge6gELq4eEHtFraVgUUOQayq19rVEifxQHG-2K895djpq8iYPqKNWabYoXCupvAYhM9DdvpmeDw_xZx8_FN8J_6RScXR9AEdUxIYTuV3LHhZM4gEzUeQniQUGPutSYUziyXORFOSld6Q_PBCSx0Tl4hoxqCF3r8CSL/s370/Post_IMG_8754.JPG"/>
</td>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidV0JVn_AGo3tUVnKBX0x854uAGcdNmJaSC5DljA2Xpp6qLkT_26mvteMXuOZZTaaVD2UVFtXSs5ZFfZHp8O_GM72u9sfF8ZgSQCVYN9cvnFhpVewxC4nkQqMjhwlpVD6XlITURB0i0BDQzrikDD3N6z73YQ7xk5dLFPXKHWDNsZxyU1NdkOxbA_GC/s370/Post_IMG_8759.JPG"/>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmPqaCHF7POln7rc_GLII2UBjmutrnglUyNTIk1559saPvr6h4ZQ7goSIf9iBnMceyE-sFZp0jciCKCHY1StvAhVDqnqWPptHVyYWx44Sg98DXJ79KWYeEauarU64PVbD8kciZ9cU8eti-7H6VtZCLFSvorXrGBM3J49lF_ryE7mfBeUAkVuTf-UCT/s370/Post_IMG_1393.JPG"/></a></div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiELslWs7OHGVNVPmXbQf3kgjPCYGf8oxYl1z2EoRde7PwQLmsQm9TZ7OOD1fv6lewYUx25ueMd_D_vh84yjM72ZrApwa5Y4q6LPrFj33DARvPaXOEHfQln9TddQA_emnw3qcCbJZVa9gBSaM1-f0nOdAIqUA9h-Rdovks-ACoCZ3WXPn_zsVy5X_uD/s370/Post_IMG_8773.JPG"/>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<p>
</p>
<table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 1063
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp9KDy4HHWCsyGv3g8tGbvgbJcd3CgohEQG3fbut51WLNuHnvdT2ryaDS15I0KP_ekTtofKVII9l_ahP7dghUywdMw5AZvzK9TjBZZYb9BG0V3ewHKoAIMlZcjLMacxV6_HnQB1vczPn2amoGs3bhKx9jLS_CBWahJWTorclAOxVjWji_UvBsvaWhE/s240/Post_IMG_8749.JPG"/>
<br />
Leuciscus aspius
<br />
Asp
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1064
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8uVbAltz_DEs89jeN7avYbDX9H5tgC1GsjkPuZeaPBDQrFmQ76t2z1rREyJzHvX9WSkBeXtui2t51qnkJ3omo6dZncKZ_0BZAjeXrmuqTOB8bJgR2DhhyVBYWtCdH65fJEeEceOWLMvJoTEUjtdKLkuP_80XWpWlnXx7-oLFaAZIaM8IvQtRetkbL/s240/Post_IMG_8779.JPG"/>
<br />
Anguilla anguilla
<br />
European Eel
<p>
</p></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr />
<h3>
Jul 18, 2022 - IJmuiden, Netherlands
</h3>
<p>
Pieter showed us a few of his productive locations today around IJmuiden. We started off fishing between rock crevices for blenny species. Unfortunately, the couple of Sculpin species that I wanted were not around. Around midday, we made a quick move to find the diminutive Sand Goby. Finally, we fished a busy shipping channel for a couple more saltwater species that lived on the sandy bottom.
<table>
<tr>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRXmTY1JtbE12JHF4o2lEIt8iHdZtFa8XmmdGyVDyZUcA8N7o2GOHpCWbArB_7AnIUWFWC12mfFvzlFcAg87WqQCJL23viv2ClPZNWAaT_AkTTILYlEZoDCT2LJSENTozhW3k28s1TXzw7ADvegX1h_0LQjmxkQIFvhu3lcsFVrQ2OBdyUtOtEsxNO/s370/Post_IMG_0001.JPG"/>
</td>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEAHHVqk1NpEp2y7FA-GxFZexNizAOt2X8WXMhsPX7UCs9cK1qtW8gFMwrai_uyxxjkcWVZf9I6P8pk1o1HrHWM33YoGxvRFJjWytFpa0XzLXRqwn8vMtI7ULIr0adWDIt2cKd0P-rfjC0pEfcRGJJZciuvUuAGLRXoLXyt27wEwRoOAcQAFPGt32E/s370/Post_IMG_0002.JPG"/>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<p>
</p>
<table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 1065
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZAFw3CuC4UR7lMunJgtoJjmNSM6ssulIeHfgsO4_JdGjPvWs-D-BgG7zBXgN1-6_4ZTU8R9GIzmIurWkvMFvqVSDdaR3Ris1iWHYisdZtBM5AhOgEZ8suBbwkUnysVxszKJPgYcCLd3Sc4XYNqkLSBPehB5SIgyoonUqeo9llIJrgQ3uXrzARNCat/s240/Post_IMG_8802.JPG"/>
<br />
Lipophrys pholis
<br />
Shanny
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1066
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRztUNnsvh_XdQBk4qamtyuMzLjpRSsueSUZJumpHlxLHKM6X3mBXWfrGG2ntlPnwOrpM70gSWVYmnu3hjkrzUvhqBBWOq3NJTQg0HgIzRjkZb9jDY0oaj3R5qG-c4cQ0PvZDiY2cOmRT9PpQNs5waJgucKEBSM9k39GB2njxaeJpH4axevVzYnt3q/s240/Post_IMG_8788.JPG"/>
<br />
Parablennius gattorugine
<br />
Tompot Blenny
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1067
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjctM1O-AfClxE217bUf0mXr-hnIoSoqMXrIr8Z2z5ILMYFIqNm5vYMeP9sfjqATklblGUq5DxkaU1YZ9PYmXW4wwlbkmwW9NZTbCmv9daL7rS70CpWLsCrJKnRGv6ZrjEZ0r30v8aNih0dczf3eRFBPP_HGnGTRFUmWkebubPMrRScJlFqHsuaW48K/s240/Post_IMG_8813.JPG"/>
<br />
Pomatoschistus minutus
<br />
Sand Goby
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Species 1068
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3F6Ow8tnA0r8UW3j9GV-K1O_t2DEhtXToTu9mPAOGdfjWwaI5LVDqLlSUEq-lnIodwzyWjzD54tqmb0n88e8Ej6pzKlpujMxX9CQ9LHV15HIPmn0Vb1PyYwIhs2DG33MXKRaLEQYDlRmZIV7pOdA8-zEdF4yhxCT9aE4VR8X7vAsT3IlDWIEzShPf/s240/Post_IMG_8828.JPG"/>
<br />
Platichthys flesus
<br />
European Flounder
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1069
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_9tn1SdFV1Rd-7lIiVMtj4SfTC0jxcDbCW15d03pZBwxPdKmoVLxFjfCm0D2wytkZHcy-w4KpFdXfO1oHemGoMm0BDAMgvsdyE6ae4ciDE9osiqNr1E1Z3V1z-AyHNl0sUn4eyWRoBw48gMzAN80tejk4Nh5vXF-9gY_F9819WZQII_uCCl9k8woA/s240/Post_IMG_8830.JPG"/>
<br />
Trisopterus luscus
<br />
Pouting
<p>
</p></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr />
<h3>
Jul 19, 2022 - Nieuwpoort, Belgium
</h3>
<p>
We met up with Pascal today to fish from his boat. A few days leading to our trip, the sea conditions kept changing and it was difficult to confirm our plan. However, it turned out to be an exceptional day - it was exceptionally flat calm, exceptionally hot (38ÂșC), and the fishing was exceptionally poor; but I caught a Starry Smooth-hound in Belgium waters which was exceptionally rare.
<table>
<tr>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis8R-EGH2fIaF-F1G5bigR4aIGLhqJUmB99MgA4yfbsqnsuYGXozrhP7WxHBIGQGkDBUdlP5_TRi6zfFreVwEc6gnFrVwDsV90R3uL-U2ERry2p-vpxU7WBuF8pbCjM7a5mVYOvZL_oinag85ZW0s61l1OeRGE7PJ9F0yQ1MUlP6KCAo6Ns0Lgy_-e/s370/Post_IMG_8843.JPG"/>
</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</table>
<p>
</p>
<table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 1070
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikZ8uMS7nXZ3WyJhnnzV67bwV9u8ZQleiwBbcFAJOHQL_8PIt-6XcvcqA-BRNRJgLJE4L6CQwzR5E0v0sB9jEVh9hN5f_7TIqA_RBACrr9y6ILaDw7_HL4F7R4Cy2eTH0Q0ytOZScoWaGm4XciXicv94C9pubxI7UeqNh77zX0Ji6l_5rEE4uNlDat/s240/Post_IMG_8854.JPG"/>
<br />
Echiichthys vipera
<br />
Lesser Weaver
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1071
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUC-aiR6KQRKN_w_7CZTSaTHvy4eOkuzEZh_iaTmihzdWjnvnySI3xa7r2WiXLlftCScIU3NgMOSS-MAA0T-_V1Q6Ylo9V-FdmMy2xrWWYHBM_CARMOYw7opTjF14EXf5UVREwjnq2vWE4X72RyneJgHi7AqxFYUoceU8TKB7Kxm9z61JwBTIqxK3R/s240/Post_IMG_8888.JPG"/>
<br />
Mustelus asterias
<br />
Starry Smooth-hound
<p>
</p></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr />
<h3>
Jul 20, 2022 - Germany
</h3>
<p>
We planned to fish with Sjors today on a river in southern Netherlands. However, they stopped selling day tickets to fish the river and there was not enough processing time to get an annual ticket. So we decided on a last minute pivot to venture into Germany to fish a small creek in Germany instead. Barbel were hiding in the grate of a small dam. When I finally hooked one, Sjors climbing down to help me land and it became the most memorable moment of the trip. At night, we tried to fish for Wels Catfish but none wanted to bite.
<table>
<tr>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVK8s-lJ-eIwh78HTAR8QZHM76xdWem9TzNmxkTmX8CKDnCnxOP4lJAazovHpkubcqG4D_fOM3G2XkpyIK45odVa-44o79ErJeGqiZGI547AKBZWtO7FePjMvrBdBXkmqhzWHeTebSSlqlYYHeIw0z7sF-YEOnxqyCMpVKm1XHEgiM28eGbNu7cexo/s370/Post_IMG_8952.JPG"/>
</td>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwYqQlt1gWSq-GLoIX90hQ708olS6B54N3bwQJiwZNFoRB62kLBnE_H_VqwATUk_RneUP9IfIQVdRH8UqkCTnfEyVzgYW6Xe-Px739Hx7eCM67sLOQCOhXKg3-c6iA7IAljuw6a8bd3qrlJ_5mYyUwhldqkKDyFhNTVHhm7RJAvFJ8GuduLNnJMx5F/s370/Post_IMG_8973.JPG"/>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVEZC3bip8Vb6621f1p5NM5fiIxRTh3ZK6oetv4z6OrGBfPMSGX9eSHfd_UoHX1IWwVBMVTaL68eNZx3wVh-SDGl6lmPD39eCFSJknjGJRE8mkdx-ETkoguiyTvLRlkCOBfj4FksK6xsWnQeSPDC2OtgYMwTFGWaQMeF-te6Zo7o_-FAyH1UO3Gaho/s370/Post_IMG_8987.JPG"/>
</td>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc_D2K1iCDnx90ymamGdTwa0T-WUXexs_g08yNRezDksGEGmrxb7jZS8k25YrziFWUPtvRjqEU9QguoX-0H3Ooe39Jc5gN84jdqEbEFzfv5HMvgx3r_-zDBdXAXtGqe0l_XO7wlcDRw0yHq7AWhRbJYFaTS9PGVP_rz0q5YM3JIcS0C-_X5za5CBpe/s370/Post_IMG_9000.JPG"/>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<p>
</p>
<table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 1072
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0TVQwesgZwg1m5KaL2ED9A217IPKX4pC9pNGoOzFxlElq1Ay2QpGaMf6t9V1apo2j5nQPHsqVCtkG1SzVzSHVahKK2bV2WxxBbruE9L_W6uDtOe4TX6IkRKnrmSLpWn6fY1ehXEcewp1q3DtxYlLqjDFm49Y0Rg_Yrm9d0qXl8gOGwuDHq1sMhKzK/s240/Post_IMG_8926.JPG"/>
<br />
Squalius cephalus
<br />
Chub
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1073
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid2MQWPU_lP7tHBgG6KHiF16yl9WkYln6Xj5zhbf9Pgp5dr_2mxt5wzx1_k3FAwX3laLtmG8aL8n4xT-lztuUDoy6dnVhzuAPj--PPYvyySEe9TGFfHo4VI146g0R2K7la_R5U6MmFCe1JD_wBgp3uio4otJb3Hmc7Lvsno8AKlBY8NhCusZAdqCaz/s240/Post_IMG_8929.JPG"/>
<br />
Barbus barbus
<br />
Barbel
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1074
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlTMZGkpYBEOo2tQ1rMhOyefBKKF9qCqao7nEw7sx-buQ0ffsydpP1Gbz6YHblyzRXa2X4X91OK93bKxrs-MlnvgVsIfaBKagr0Nw_JBdCD6nASVx4GgYu0Obs7gCY91oPG2aSdmwclc2Fn67lYsaWEwLh-Mtw3yqP-jGMLZvm_6mx4ZQMAVYmIDvr/s240/Post_IMG_8946.JPG"/>
<br />
Gobio gobio
<br />
Gudgeon
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Species 1075
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihMv2_T_UvA2M2HuvkjmKkjB4wZhFjldgTCIYBkIU_AzkB56qr1C9d9l2mu1h0umABXO2_K3584MtADSdXpLnWqHRMtNWpta73bNOcnvo9fk8KSum-DvEVtSHfR-2jF37WQszq_MQspMz0FXscsbpI8AzUtCArBZFJPO3DV2RBM-WRVn-8Qdhb6UOe/s240/Post_IMG_8963.JPG"/>
<br />
Rhodeus amarus
<br />
European Bitterling
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1076
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYQWGxpEQ4pUhoLf22vh8Ti6QyFyhAWTxAVSQyWW3OJK6tZe_OuIF7SbsudQE9X9yf2__2RpnpkDJM7_9ih3akudP7Y2ymYdQKdb5HY4AWL3vBJ9TpMP4QyEuYe3GjKzh_sM3yFV_IWD0OZmhFNtFMCvIHWG-JW12ganqINghSedNr1uh99ufnm_pQ/s240/Post_IMG_9004.JPG"/>
<br />
Abramis brama
<br />
Freshwater Bream
<p>
</p></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr />
<h3>
Jul 21, 2022 - Eindhoven, Netherlands
</h3>
<p>
We had exceptionally nice weather for most of the trip, but a cold front moved in behind the heat wave. This was our last fishing day it finally rained all day. At times, it was pouring as heavy as a tropical monsoon. We managed to do a little sightfishing around rocks in a small creek before it poured, but as the rain intensified, I missed out on my Bullhead Sculpin opportunity.
</p>
<table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 1077
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0yOAlJOW1b5sZRgbk9A9NUG46pTFglUdW-HiIv4EWdb_ch_pynE8ojXL4iHORF3VOQd6oPPJ3m5Jq_g_KGM4YXGqnmaQ7T8zmeO0GSXoe2aAKWL0loiL29q32OPnPPYxHRX2LyJlR5dOi6vJ5Rupf0WgzCyyNMZgbKDiT8pJQtpw16hGZJjtqR9Mn/s240/Post_IMG_9017.JPG"/>
<br />
Barbatula barbatula
<br />
Stone Loach
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1078
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuBnC6K35qGQrq2sGZvHzNMQ8-IWE_bDMGEeFdbF6sKvtgp6BLinYwmiPMZ14boxnUR9OErwdNxYunoI7jXwlOsCqFbSlHjzb_xw17mWBdNcn5pfIUKMGirOxr4Q2HF7Rw_uuXERRRX8D2ddOp_Q2xIiMdkjfq3mxBuY25Vy3RCFUJt9HjUJ8UUWCj/s240/Post_IMG_9023.JPG"/>
<br />
Pseudorasbora parva
<br />
Stone Moroko
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1079
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQv2iGAOsou4PAJZ8-YK_mUvgppeLOAeJNgyWjUtrtAk9PY7o-ojmLLZjo4NiI8xqTbrx98NnAidg5_YZYsZB7Nt26ZXLxLDPvhX1hU2KHT-EgTdePUygaDKMqYGe1lQC0mUMMHOsei5SEOynPuJlNJvBBeVjpf0qB0FG6qMfdvIDsoXKF1tnof7vp/s240/Post_IMG_9035.JPG"/>
<br />
Leuciscus idus
<br />
Ide
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Species 1080
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxw7hu8TuzNzjyJyaWqJ8UVpqbDugNMmuoEKWQAzxCK3vdXtwWldE0ZjRiWGntQWHXPwNPHdbiXSchwj1zRZg8zee0iUa6QCw7xzroXZ-rXicVNuWx0E0gnZRpi6Fp0WI1iPTI9StXBjLFALGQQYsvVk3WCLJFGlKzYx4hzAXIWL1de5z7IKXpiPxc/s240/Post_IMG_9040.JPG"/>
<br />
Proterorhinus marmoratus
<br />
Tubenose Goby
<p>
</p></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr />
MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-54754438949945377242022-03-11T22:00:00.813-05:002022-03-30T16:13:56.449-04:00South America 2022<h3>
Mar 12, 2022 - Rio Magdalena, Colombia
</h3>
<p>
Around 60% of species in Rio Magdalena are endemic. With a 13-hour stopover, it was just enough time to drive 3.5h from Bogota to the closest access on the Rio Madgalena to catch two endemic catfish species. Fishing might be more productive if the water wasn't high, swift and turbid with visibility of less than 6 inches.
<table>
<tr>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7s0fVQnw7WlDpghlHbXchTf0MRGu6Fen1apYos3xLFYc5hYc_TqwVH8plKIkPqDLu33fWjGHmKu2rBz722SwIqjkZqlf16u6bIhr0I-4g6wxIsicupgCdR3-WWOuf-qtzj9Q2_iWvzbJDrbA9_Yy6OndAWbLUB6XdaQrfDBmyCAD5rMURbBzLQOa4/s370/Post_IMG_8180.JPG"/>
</td>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDko362WHpq4cGFyu-DzCI0bfhfe-QfoXuwVWzU2jZo6PKhT6LqLDiIv-N4Waxvrx_udGV8wtFn9h8R7T30YK2MR5j-b5KDheqC88tQFGVPVKedZllVrLVXjCUGwKD53ZGpryIBzogX8oxiNpaouTL4tvvBixbdufQSmccivRKxUkupIXf0M1eySVJ/s370/Post_IMG_8199.JPG"/>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<p>
</p><table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 1035
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy-eG6lQHxv-oyhTKVi4-I5PFN_PxXrkwCejjL-pdOi2fptr_I8PccQf6gBcD7Ob7sKplnx0DnrUherJ6TlLlcCBxcGVaX937GS8jHwxC84t73ZoFgORxnY2X0SAlicEf4KioPmGvnzrXWaTnBVWY1hAFPWVzYu-WN5RJMUVJ3XHMyodcoRjjaDRpn/s240/Post_IMG_8177.JPG"/>
<br />
Pimelodus yuma
<br />
(No common name)
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1036
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6MhqAfiH17NHfiWMu7rspofiSPRJOuPvxYn2BJnp2gkbLUCkrW3oRSJddhxEfOb3qucVyOBnQimKFpOLMkphiEWoGuiZKIonWLdQ9iuKHPP0HmZAYBBwc6Wxsy23e1Cg4tOJ8WTZmdy0GuENiwU-7igjbK_XZrosRBLJRfbLA5OvPSON7M3x1qoMp/s240/Post_IMG_8190.JPG"/>
<br />
Pimelodus grosskopsii
<br />
(No common name)
<p>
</p></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr />
<h3>
Mar 13, 2022 - Rio Parana, Encarnacion, Paraguay
</h3>
<p>
The last visit to Paraguay (in March 2020) was the shortest trip ever - 3 days in the country, including travel time, before COVID-induced national curfews and international border closures forced a premature flight home. Fingers crossed that another disaster would not strike and I can actually stay for more than 72 hours this time around. An afternoon session produced 2 wish-list species, plus a rare Catfish that Fernando just learned of its existence.
<p>
</p><table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 1037
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzlKp_4I3TCX_qdS9FMVFm1oWl-ybkcHn9SaiPHrrWAQMikNcd5xKr6YeAUVhTJ6oSOiqo9QDM8bvRh5szIe3Yqe-vwf7nC7V9WWFpxL3s5F3O4mPUOHO9ayfKCHWcUQRxc3tvTjGobUDu8aIninzPYH3vjDvdTo5f8CrJe8FmnFPdIShXMvroWrqT/s240/Post_IMG_8213.JPG"/>
<br />
Hoplias mbigua
<br />
(No common name)
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1038
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLa4nR3rjBwDNsaDb24aXuHE_VGfd8ArMSGZlh5UKWgLDfnvGPUt2d9--ZkTt3t9fOL6IC2c0FCYyLvuoHOtAHQyk7ZXsgoD3y-vuG7gEE2TgKTzIF_TMbbmc8mxQ3g-7A3ODYNyPgh5yKFaOjTNKYTjcB8qTGVOGqyUKA2NUnqyCojavxkPzCYEbX/s240/Post_IMG_8228.JPG"/>
<br />
Acestrorhynchus pantaneiro
<br />
(No common name)
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1039
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5pgRMuxseL0DGgUkCvKsjbWRJhUHOcfaa63075r2hHAnoWIAPllzZKGEJumljavHH43OniPEPBzFAjsvDmlD5c-3q78IfvnXGVXO0ZdKNCoJ51osltbCDY-w0jY9Em7ApbTdejFACUbZvCCUXOZ8O-OT7qXUV8ZSxa1CCGq8YYMZxNZPMwMukR9Ho/s240/Post_IMG_8230.JPG"/>
<br />
Auchenipterus nuchalis
<br />
(No common name)
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr />
<h3>
Mar 14, 2022 - Rio Parana, Cerrito, Paraguay
</h3>
<p>
Paraguay is in the midst of a multi-year drought and many of the wetlands turned into grasslands. However, the few remaining small rivers did offer easy fishing for Hoplias misionera. Stopping at road-side chiperas for fresh chipas was a nice break to stretch legs after sitting for hours cramped under the kayaks inside Fernando's van.
<p>
<table>
<tr>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj5yfp8-lbEL0PhvdSw8SJ00_KYgIRb73ipSNl0F7H97-ndAmAWrZRny25UaceaoA6hsJ6oWDPcwn1XM_rF2Yb19LH9yvjddI72dMlhHGJQmCjqsBCglJb7rV_PrOjjsJ6upmwhf9qjLBpc8vx1XoROeQhf2wWzc9gacG1Jo6CoCKFKiRNeUvaj84R/s370/Post_IMG_8260.JPG"/>
</td>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAx5D758UHCyy5pUR30-PMNT-cqwzPuTmoZUBAX0tp--WfcEh53YgVaNYgt4Syg0bciCT6OO1_Qp5JKELLKDqf869m9JLrwYJQ1UZ_stKDqvkJFAT2Top7c-EYvhoY19Zeegl_eyU-bqV9V5UpaIwW3RawaOOd-kNaum6MTpA4NlqvCUzy0xsWKh7l/s370/Post_IMG_8242.JPG"/>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2cVEdE6fXzqJvR0U1MVgrRg96xVDfaqerPAdzEtlQ1zONKTPb5YQ4XF2LCMiVNtDpGax6saFjr-SfKQDq47BbHqyVMlctMh4s4WfRiSvWE5RNE6Bmwu_aUl6i_DxM-7ha4wJopPe3YS6wWJp0Wm2XhPMk50q3omSaiGyARt_YBB53IneqH1ovXOEh/s370/Post_IMG_8245.JPG"/>
</td>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUHiunF7Pk9fueSYMuMPigk7TBgT6g7FR8LxQOJ8ev-7OV6rcJyGH82Ji5O19pV6bEiDjE3T6N_CguZkct6dFTQ8YsV52quKh_kfTkI80cn9PrYsviQpjEACsb23ztpZBbSlALaI9Elokz3dyjwEZjBFLhn_du6RfGwMqCWHd048OFVRtRNTp0S7BT/s370/Post_IMG_8283.JPG"/>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<p>
</p><table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 1040
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxMjcYXZUSlKgT7cnHAeM-E55pJaVJew5TtEhXUnEtPws3HBphHh0kzSLZZxYAnvsFJhb3k9_SWa50ZZyOuFN_z_JbmONPl25u2y-3GRVuRBQvG8VaeDTp9rnK7N6A3XUB3u4s-zgJDD1-P2XXA1OXOnSc7duK_d2am0GNxpDUWKOTud7f97TtY6em/s240/Post_IMG_8247.JPG"/>
<br />
Hoplias misionera
<br />
(No common name)
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1041
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7xR9MTq6Hazs3zJdsTj8w_rR3pRP6xT_ZOzelP-6sm94Sc4uKbsGUC_S8hnifomQUcVk_lAtaGaNe57SgyJwLfsULfTG7qNsx5WXuAleFMoCkZWsVx_ZRNGqWyYzl9h1PM77x-9xXV8CsDEXIbBArA7yolRBEnoFm5trPSKHQYVypN-H4F7WZ95m3/s240/Post_IMG_8287.JPG"/>
<br />
Pimelodus maculatus
<br />
Spotted Pim
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1042
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6G0uhQj2ZnPzUiNSbfpjLM2L7Xzu1jlbLZGsQVsOTtEaICq0wfMKXCeo1zDn7hmocFnAOTdKd_odp-XxhY6W8w9VS_qD8d50a0ktV9ospOTrda1tELcexAQ4s-LwVGDToM-8ODY3OZEE1nEuLsrhzBpldPagmqYhjqrNynV5xJdf4V2Hz0JlREgVR/s240/Post_IMG_8291.JPG"/>
<br />
Platydoras armatulus
<br />
Southern Striped Raphael
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr />
<h3>
Mar 15, 2022 - Rio Parana, Cerrito, Paraguay
</h3>
<p>
Our first full day in Cerrito, the plan was to focus on the main objective - a Golden Dorado. A strenuous 3km upstream paddle against the strong current for 2 hours, the reward was only a couple of chases for me and Golden Dorado broken off for Fernando. Due to the drought, the fishing was extremely poor. The decision was to return mid-afternoon in favour of some bottom fishing and securing Piranha or Catfish for dinner.
<p>
<table>
<tr>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKZItNi7_NiGAzRn19vlxJ7-O8pw922lnr2hhONBIl7QG6YraxbhS9gt5l34ZDnC3G3XrqawdMx3caCOpS4ZpEpq0LEZjZCcWP26esfzZtJip1VVPAxnLifDXEpIJt1rwzk_hrw4S0l0yw-p29TrV8dO20T_KRxDkM7ERvwdrbA55nM3sDLEOn67x-/s370/Post_IMG_8304.JPG"/>
</td>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdJmqEsWEBEzgTKHqOH_lKAEX33k9hv5g7vdbq2BUnaBMyWPp0rbnA8JigQPv-ZVVSsOXJf8JvnLzKwczIJd0eh0P_uq7ISRuMOXsKbuIR2TeBK9un0KcyUk7N0RKN6ZZhsfcaicOQQi-kSON0-37Tp6vnp0vwRmuQYuX9sCTBpKlH8XlQEirh5x6E/s370/Post_IMG_8311.JPG"/>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LY8e43tpKP9F2sVXXg5G-iUrOyMNnpB2rqfGW77w0GKHIckaHnr-B1ThHb2txaHTvrZuthPuxmHzGgYrWBx7RZGRkNjKjR7A6_fq4y9ux2Xxbot-okNXuHPZUF9H1Ml2Q5G9k7XvdAOjrYWSPreR3cn8EA0JvSWJSsmkIRC0dOSzl6uxVpeyUBLC/s370/Post_IMG_8321.JPG"/>
</td>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikRU5GSibS6NUcRWDpZKDSxH_Ok3R6R6DeUyFeO_u46OOvG0CnjvuS90oPw0UxteYtefjYWQiYxln3wtsxuEwMasJPlU8ftwwYfKKgg2_4FbAzxhtKHWX9vyf0As_LR_FVdR8if1PC41M0bQ-kfWSDowUw16fK55i9LPhAqMfc_M3Hhv_tojxqc2Kx/s370/Post_IMG_1042.JPG"/>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<p>
</p><table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 1043
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihYvlQ4ekYrPu9n-c-KLu5_y8CiEWZEZXS6xtFj6Hjy9hFFM4DPepZkhz8J-QkY4WJcP9XWI1_50S0W-uWEWvDS8W2st-IlzDULPGVIP_515eLLcofzzrFyybuU70wW05EwJm6eVBBfIDLdnZWtD3O_0UoFTNpqvcaFmiwkHHw9UlrgwK5tmMElJrP/s240/Post_IMG_8328.JPG"/>
<br />
Astyanax lacustris
<br />
(No common name)
<p>
</p></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr />
<h3>
Mar 16, 2022 - Rio Parana, Cerrito, Paraguay
</h3>
<p>
A boat wake bounced one of Fernando's rod into the water, never to be seen again despite a couple of hours dredging the depth with a weighted treble hook. A Golden Dorado hit at my feet, crumpled the leader but missed the front hook. A double-header of Golden Dorado on bait resulting in one quick jump-and-spit for Fernando, and the another shook the hook just 6 inches from the net for me. Losses were the theme of the day, including plenty of livebait chopped up by endless Piranhas. A piscivorous Catfish and the livebait species ended up salvaging the day. Instead of Golden Dorado fillets, we feasted on Spotted Pim and drank our sorrows away.
<p>
<table>
<tr>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrtWAcIN5OnDEtgiL--eyTbM7Ea6sEMog78MPys2PpMu2ScXVmKFHNSR6bNmN_iLhzQrUOf-wS6X0CIO65D4a3pGqibuUEFsAlxaVO5RZrAa8dEgpFpc6KikOq1pZoxeCLrHWPtb2haRrkZsMGj0r6BN-cd5PRcoQNpc44KKEEUw-HR65nQnZLWYO8/s370/Post_IMG_8322.JPG"/>
</td>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNbWoDiGlSXAY9M4m20kf5tTpLgf2t8iBev7stTPgkqd2BL-sCG9_XsigwpErXXx8HtrRbb2RHjvdrj6m0JRLCwHnCOvPJlKSGDDF4ACsX-3zfG-mJzxa3hib5Un8CqWZztmhijNePtxgn2VYaGQShSxxpiu6m3T8DW-SJxKQQSlPKDt4wijauYGHE/s370/Post_IMG_1081.JPG"/>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<p>
</p><table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 1044
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjURN9GBMBzvvHUVOAmoNAKNJC8gQSbNoSnRlxc36j3y4nZVGxbfYVHq-xNV5dXySKjwuPcXYHrQnvU8LTjANtqpq_Y-nGAbD0mqK2-8L-_Cg77H4bc-yb5lktHPYfhunj8MZXGeHISDr1p266RP9NbJ3Yk8YHa3l2w3yxNBhCL3ctvE_DkPgqXS2N6/s240/Post_IMG_8341.JPG"/>
<br />
Psalilodon rutilus
<br />
(No common name)
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1045
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpAmKfzHFg7ebL4FFt5fbJNQ77FbCG_jfJ4v3YJPpumdah82uW9LXbJBy4m7ZkC9e-sRcGJwdZMP_ZNK7bpXMGRon9Pd1xrvoflHn2XZXEjMWFcHAM_c6vZFGE1lpikG5u5yYefoQq7q3jU5g0eRX3dQ7Ugmnzfa-vOCCIOsTvelCzzO6culIHWEZg/s240/Post_IMG_8355.JPG"/>
<br />
Odontostilbe pequira
<br />
(No common name)
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1046
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX1czv8BSLdudYceoThDN7REtQMTdfTQkInul6aTU4yGrj2hUmV-xa2TSef3hZy_q2rtwGs6vSM5tTIYjH6Ap4aZgyVeY3QlCyNjn8NoY5Gb5qCInfjsD3oLmDcxOrGttkFur3WbSJ8jGm18JPxEPwgQ25N5YmgQBzsqlZOcxIMeNAJB-iiLU9hqj0/s240/Post_IMG_8364.JPG"/>
<br />
Hemisorubim platyrhynchos
<br />
Porthole Shovelnose Catfish
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr />
<h3>
Mar 17, 2022 - Rio Parana, Encarnacion, Paraguay
</h3>
<p>
Cerrito's sleepy and rustic charm is preserved by its unforgiving sandy access roads. A series of protest and road blocks against high fuel prices ushered a hasty retreat back to Encarnacion, only to be delayed when well-intentioned anglers, who tried to pull out a stuck sedan, were swallowed by the sandy traps as well. An evening of micro fishing within the city revealed a few more lifer gems.
<p>
<table>
<tr>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxD2IwUukQsfTtp9e2ddTExIjVE48FLbDEANYYGnz1jWA9W3Ryj9NyqEEOm6QXpNeCFM9y2Z0urzJBcVzmdV0S2U4NE5gPZgGpyXC8McVKiVaWyZzp7Njttm7fTtJ7cOo6l3DUFJMxHTufc4eO4Drnm0kP2AINXyXVvhI3uNvNJU-ycB3mr4j5BXGi/s370/Post_IMG_8390.JPG"/>
</td>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKObaD3_a-TEWtj8iAPKagiu36UIVWK4IsILv5acxOUP-2laivxhjUjghzsLCcn-CvrFlCycByOR4Jrwjn3VPTTjkJSG5MoO7f7wEl78pi13GOJfFt_NLvzbk0cbs4s_RCM2dzpTmlNJDBZqC_-w7cq91KDmKrrT5vhOdngpIBkV0XXWomjoZLQGIS/s370/Post_IMG_8399.JPG"/>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV-0ZpodtaeEqhDEb8KWQv4s9m8MYi28gTISIOYDDfGbGGrSFOPRPwk57sgSMeHMHcZo4Hpxo_XRaZOuPbCwNBe4Kd1e9pC6fko-2M96WV0tNRi3AfzjTSPXwL1BFiud93pr2ACX150UQK97I2qdaU7X6pTm7EYrj4HMBwWSLXBtAXUJw7c_96q9L5/s370/Post_IMG_8403.JPG"/>
</td>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxaPXSJCgasQa9S6VwLGgpZafRj3-eSsBOGCzMqQqp-8O5PGyhHekWyRGGJci60wbuQ3SZ-T99tKi0bjt0GxyQ0jdfHg6kp6NzsHFxoyBcjdUiocueHTEQ1PNJJiOtc3Oe70jsg5wNwCB3IZiXslZlvQGN0wZQhzrvvNRmgJcmeDi7XwEEglPrJ3px/s370/Post_IMG_8404.JPG"/>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<p>
</p><table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 1047
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL91RM0AQobH81fVx43HhiIbKBvaJLbKqi93Iz26CFy05HmLQDIpCRdfd8vUlX2ZgqJFi84n4XW5FX_PaA-ri6ub5IzXbb03exNfNkmuodlIfqNC5gRg4QYxCtxpw1lLtYOpVjfKKbnqmtrY3BlrNXtQB-a-dl2PW7UlbLu-Wy2gRkUm-ZjDjRxBei/s240/Post_IMG_8412.JPG"/>
<br />
Crenicichla taikyra
<br />
(No common name)
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1048
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNiNCFVkc4B1dGBYJh_Es2_4INWcgU4u3BChMw1moJmstZBNO3knUsvvbJY6MSAcWEWEHp6SVR82qHpacwcy38Vkbw0rzBR6pZpnBH9Fhy16_PkVefdGTYb6S3Ps5N6za7BRbuujZW1UL6YIaZ1DBO_vG0Bv5lR6CkYuIYVsBbgiOrTkLdipLmxVDr/s240/Post_IMG_8431.JPG"/>
<br />
Triportheus nematurus
<br />
(No common name)
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1049
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUcQOrPwcgqdyiFjTynHxhJtp3bg7hw2iFC24VoTudxVyG_ARueNg3lfmQCvY_Rwwpeug2Pn1ZPmzry5hcJSbKYBnMk72NsrY19TW_R_zo4AjVOcCakFvkyXonqYol9lxKtQ-Vn7rTxi1hcYJODMUgXyQEyjwSezoTvwOIBziKlRzLQzej_NaVB_f8/s240/Post_IMG_8456.JPG"/>
<br />
Psalilodon eigenmanniorum
<br />
(No common name)
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr \>
<h3>
Mar 18, 2022 - Rio Parana, Encarnacion, Paraguay
</h3>
<p>
An early morning of fishing was pretty uneventful until a fiery sky signaled the start of three consecutive Motoro Ray. While the morning remained calm, a quick kayak paddle led to a crystal clear aquarium where it was possible to sightfish for multiple species. A creek just outside of town offered the opportunity for another lifer. On the last evening in Paraguay, we celebrated a successful trip with fancy empanadas.
<p>
<table>
<tr>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhOdmFfOnFjFzW2YfW4MlBlSRWo2dNkuN__whyR_M_3YeCmcN61E5qdvPEkhMKfNCs74gVQpLd8evaIrrflH6EFtDTlZ_kIZh1oIBZLoOpt1MeTcNIrpkyz1cqsFlH9RMS1qjtlX1zaa-0ApTw6a5VLjZjWMqOBFUz4O5MpaPsWAJ4ycFnML8mwGcs/s370/Post_IMG_8462.JPG"/>
</td>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVi9GwFrJc24u1ZeAcVWzSa7UZt_1q940x-yXu61YWNxrEasePmRJpuKECcO27RlQh3VwPw-m2B7ye9bC4b2cUSId84L304y-sXMrNUq9fnY88QwNLA4Kxx2rYCmxw1eTwBOD1ft0rbQq9qNaJJnkKFdWBth6wX81ufRJrxNTvyCcSA0ucM7EimAXP/s370/Post_IMG_8542.JPG"/>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji4vOIkf__GWnQENtWeLobyQpbGHHtQQIgD3NSAX8oWt7Xcgi2VEpue-lKIKXhDiotZ-Rum9EBYezoBasmr0vtSz0-XtScV6oWjt8lE8vPMNTlLyIlRwtX4oqRVrx60ZvLr004OZlkxbfWHyZCO2ucBfMNSKTIuIe8UU2LS7scItqQ-ucvgqvCXc4J/s370/Post_IMG_8572.JPG"/>
</td>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfzzVzBhSDJDYwjhBRipdwEXmIFIlfmEMvKk3XIJs0DdYnBF9pmoHz8roO9PPMeO1316Ebg2PzuNFzUlysF3Cic2jMbNJvmimVMA7M9ihmI_ARxhiI_tIaZfIX4HiNPH_-quIw3jkyzPR72UNi5r8fZ6n_sSzh1C1uRUjDo_LkfCTsafm9rXrYdspx/s370/Post_IMG_1085.JPG"/>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<p>
</p><table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 1050
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Xy0c3aE77MpfmnrXxJ8bnuoqC9PVwXpGu1-wdJBgVPH82_NBxMHGfSwDBuuyWtG9WKB6DeBMdtdmxR7uOmyyGWXXIv4oMfH8RBujs1UhTYGSBaROyv4_Fy46SzlHcITUYkPTAv4gB_SU7Zipd9tT_yARwj649036hylM-c_qs-AY-r2OAdsWApZN/s240/Post_IMG_8492.JPG"/>
<br />
Potamotrygon motoro
<br />
South American Freshwater Stingray
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1051
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7uhzcW2amE5ZTothr8e32CrDTgGvvMrRip0WURPh20Ryk0o-t2pqn4mscq8IJeQhT359nWAhkzmDjwa4F1_Fj3yyfycUTFOM80XpjBs4-Lmivomgbhn_zEqKiTlHu1y9cy9PI1xcTsvM8HZppJNnE9mLXAGfK3QBcMsw_QioLE8xXJlMVbqjzMFcS/s240/Post_IMG_8514.JPG"/>
<br />
Hyphessobrycon eques
<br />
Jewel Tetra
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1052
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjATy5RVf8oDSZuasYB0fEK-vnVDVydaNMNgDnUM4N4P4ePnESAZiBgYXTUfMXcou9xoOiwhfdEnCsKj_QwLAH1P_h5-0pVxukmB3xoGNdOO00d1WU7rytETd7UI3hpH5U3ceHkhL_wfR9d3TQa0qhtBqs_mfM-7IfFN3m2U6MCuILKPWRl3Kmj1AyQ/s240/Post_IMG_8561.JPG"/>
<br />
Bryconamericus agna
<br />
(No common name)
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr \>
<h3>
Mar 20, 2022 - Represea Billings, Sao Paulo, Brazil
</h3>
<p>
A 6-hour stopover turned into an extra morning of fishing, thanks to the airline granting an early departure time so it was possible to overnight in Sao Paulo. The forecast threatened torrential rainfall but, trusting the radar imagery rather than the posted forecast, the gamble on favourable weather was won. The fish were not bothered by the 10C temperature drop or the on-and-off misty drizzle. Special thanks to Leo for sharing his childhood fishing spot.
<p>
<table>
<tr>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIi-A4q6nF7a9kbrTWBToV4y4LYQWSp9UIa0eYc9yjO7ImMX20rxBTHlbWhk9ToMGPpQa7A7kWggjDOUebBEOHCDVl8I6yz0AZkNcUYAV2gPD4cDtvD9rnwkiTbY9t4Dss5Rh6crGXVphR3y37EwRLWTyEc2dY0QsB7E7PKf2_eZiaPmK3Qs7sQ_9r/s370/Post_IMG_8655.JPG"/>
</td>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg29NsCVa9WFdLusbrjeOD-ryUJQFsnySPQRZdR8DdlPgL10TIfc_3V6taDUoXIkAdspp_FDDJf4dRa5qqiMO4YQd7r98ZZJ4eXf9Rh5DFq8FEmy7ce4Zotc1rElbOxG-c5Dxq_ZphXDMFrkSN9zc_B6W7C8oUd4XnSZZ0dZEFBoW4lsMESgzKrgZL6/s370/Post_IMG_8599.JPG"/>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<p>
</p><table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 1053
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR4P-Mh5xNlBwRMuKtHD3MSfVK2IcNgRb6SdVWIiBPEsRl19Q7uokBSqD7Q_JMpAQLqFoqTI7jKvJcFpWcv3ClhQo_sKuOQlgorvrd6F-Hgh3IBRlw7gmfSMMrXTfsCqoZ5obQ7J9AFepLB9vn9LB9NhNxmmNLoZSS06W9CP1R8aGbWT5WHgQYm4eE/s240/Post_IMG_8589.JPG"/>
<br />
Crenicichla britskii
<br />
(No common name)
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1054
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_aDtgU-gTLVYZkCikhdJqYCK8Jwe76Yd2JhedYna3Lkmn7-bfEmfY6lGKGYiFS40QeUyDsAcC-AGWGqGq-sG7d2smQVFqXpfiuWsd_Mo0mU75krWkw9SVZDZfJdIWKNgydTn2NKQlhN_McMiLGqranMNdNhyYIcG_2BdVZx-lYV-7IwrP8pbkGQG2/s240/Post_IMG_8644.JPG"/>
<br />
Coptodon rendalli
<br />
Redbreast Tilapia
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1055
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggC6uvH4CZcSZtCFO4R-Wq8UwmYxtxZYnRHzb64_ESLqQWjnmbMyASot4I8DxJXu6DlcHZZ8VZZg-SPt7gnrFba8y8R4-mMvuQRvhBCNucvyQyVWTcDue-yRZ5_d7TG7yyRTNhAfB2GY_l0ds-wWPCspYqwbdTndVKa7kqPbic-k-SI6NY7J8HMuld/s240/Post_IMG_8621.JPG"/>
<br />
Geophagus brasiliensis
<br />
Pearl Cichlid
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Species 1056
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwcQxoxn4lQY9T9neukjUm_QVAXCrDB9kqL7YCGhMydLL-JtvA1aiFE6tsOvy0n2G5KFOMaEEdWx2P_rISOnfkIiuhF4Fcp4PAEcjd9NuyLbidvJQM3u-xt7zdfZm10KirrAO0Di6M6KiufmEqPWkIb_OzrAItniRoTsS1SVW088pqx7kmOYDJ_6jo/s240/Post_IMG_8639.JPG"/>
<br />
Psalilodon fasciatus
<br />
Banded Astyanax
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1057
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZZ4dx5I-tNjJ0TDO1O18wyIB5ELsSvZkSz-BApbwvXVC1DxHvw_SRKfaLGJRlm_hQKXBSq2S8kZbbHZe22skV5B144e9MoERu8mWiZN0lsGeYB_nCRAyEXK8ZhNiv5iWDSAB-0ch4uqQnJIqSDnIE0ynFS_v3VBC46Q1gb3Kr0BKIyw-9C8eNchs4/s240/Post_IMG_8671.JPG"/>
<br />
Poecilia vivipara
<br />
(No common name)
<p>
</p></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr \>
MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-7744450093578153102021-12-20T21:00:00.723-05:002022-08-21T10:53:21.814-04:00Singapore 2021<h3>
Stopover - Vancouver
</h3>
<p>
<table>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhRm3tm18U6b_LjDAVQIMzGtP-KlDeLA5y5-jnqzOK6YjWaSwPHcyTlxN8biSDXvxauCoiLJnl2o1yccgIAM3IywpAiKXTW_uwZLcwBgnBIahxbKs8Fydph-_eSRVTY2h5vIf-qyL17Y9RMLWg8Bw3Brf2kButtD8C0LZhP4GlRMEJqrPiahGXkOICR=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhRm3tm18U6b_LjDAVQIMzGtP-KlDeLA5y5-jnqzOK6YjWaSwPHcyTlxN8biSDXvxauCoiLJnl2o1yccgIAM3IywpAiKXTW_uwZLcwBgnBIahxbKs8Fydph-_eSRVTY2h5vIf-qyL17Y9RMLWg8Bw3Brf2kButtD8C0LZhP4GlRMEJqrPiahGXkOICR=s370"/></a>
</td>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7LbvBNgBoauJTQ2cC7mOqmpHDPapyEvlQhCxxt3JwnEeLyY3EsMWnEk-iveEwd5ATpioXHyncoamjgjPxoKBjXUIIFQbarsIHm8Zpmhv7gGFXiXp7hlv4IXHGGuDiCmA8mXtBFGNFBM-c6eLPC7KzOunY6s4vKueQsiT21eJG1UAYOvfBG6dDPHWu=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7LbvBNgBoauJTQ2cC7mOqmpHDPapyEvlQhCxxt3JwnEeLyY3EsMWnEk-iveEwd5ATpioXHyncoamjgjPxoKBjXUIIFQbarsIHm8Zpmhv7gGFXiXp7hlv4IXHGGuDiCmA8mXtBFGNFBM-c6eLPC7KzOunY6s4vKueQsiT21eJG1UAYOvfBG6dDPHWu=s370"/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgCUUcoXboYTTgJTHSI6rkbnIkLdeaVbULBRRJ0uWmewzgw6rIJtLdZvJOtAVyPIo2G_BJMM9LksEpy5EU4gdQqSQQBXLdd9XwkSAoeUN_YroT2nHw3-lfqRtLJG1aPrI0Z27Q85N1VfxDDaftK8kAWPWX4jw3kJdJvCRQPJbuW1L3-DDDaeI-aBU8N=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgCUUcoXboYTTgJTHSI6rkbnIkLdeaVbULBRRJ0uWmewzgw6rIJtLdZvJOtAVyPIo2G_BJMM9LksEpy5EU4gdQqSQQBXLdd9XwkSAoeUN_YroT2nHw3-lfqRtLJG1aPrI0Z27Q85N1VfxDDaftK8kAWPWX4jw3kJdJvCRQPJbuW1L3-DDDaeI-aBU8N=s370"/></a>
</td>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhXWPRMivRcdetnTgTKnbIzAaEY1v-pZC8Xlg39OlUALDf8tI4hfpxu28r81ByDcuSD1-SlcJ1wQ2Ad1SKd8TaQLoK9RoBJBlz-WzYNwKVpj4hMXiohoDwFbhhYwtOV9H9cNP-XeuXdk0Np-QNt5r8OmoL2b497yMgyqVDnYvqzRByb7EIwoFH_GdCA=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhXWPRMivRcdetnTgTKnbIzAaEY1v-pZC8Xlg39OlUALDf8tI4hfpxu28r81ByDcuSD1-SlcJ1wQ2Ad1SKd8TaQLoK9RoBJBlz-WzYNwKVpj4hMXiohoDwFbhhYwtOV9H9cNP-XeuXdk0Np-QNt5r8OmoL2b497yMgyqVDnYvqzRByb7EIwoFH_GdCA=s370"/></a>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<p>
</p><table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 963
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjMg-knBhr9Ne32Q69Ok8CCZGTvGJgeFnZUvU9oAGMKa5VSyEKEAInj2PlrZPA87aR92tDBDl-v0azw1iT1uFKCYq8QwESqOkfaGRRpHtopXPTVFBdzdwO8gtMx_8CwfynJOWWHU0JguD2lCuQ7knplAkEj_hUMp22A6NRJYLi1TdP4fls93v6pFLFZ=s240" />
<br />
Aulorhynchus flavidus
<br />
Tube-snout
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 964
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiKIG3nBwysgcMHkOhCq6ijGzZQ3NFpQzYo0UH3Fjao9VdAhDYaAf0U7io08x-z9FnRm9NURd6-rY9NWgmFP5MiJBCAKR78MnqjpOK3lhcpblQzo9RJJo31RD95cP3GxwD2uPR7qh_quLaoBDyqum4arJId2LanmrNY1Y4e6XtISJguVD_khgWz5GMr=s240" />
<br />
Brachyistius frenatus
<br />
Kelp Perch
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 965
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjKnvKWiPycAQxBnJDXUP292eOOmXitL4iIHN-vwFaWUeOuIaTwzTB59_3FZ3pOcz0bs6k_4FglfypnyWkVxZpZmEAKOBA4mI74bFBZK8RExzOt_e02BqbwajBnPzfUVCM64jol7D0M-lUpMFfB-kMt2ONeFw6bXbuPQ4FuceK3i0NUecBs7IcCupLl=s240" />
<br />
Gadus chalcogrammus
<br />
Alaska Pollock
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr />
<h3>
Dec 20, 2021 - Bedok Jetty
</h3>
<p>
<table>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhOzLDd478Hix5WfUQ9JMvWP_f5AdKCHqX-WBrJtFTDa19-5nPGvYQTPRtJjKWqpWAup2o1MYwZefuCOav6R3NRVwIj4RakSVtjpFJAPp4aYwhLpgozRdhjVTPckzFTOkws4j4LftPFrXi_xv4DoWtP3s8xIjIU3r0cHnNHdc34pExIpgHFbVlL13wN=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhOzLDd478Hix5WfUQ9JMvWP_f5AdKCHqX-WBrJtFTDa19-5nPGvYQTPRtJjKWqpWAup2o1MYwZefuCOav6R3NRVwIj4RakSVtjpFJAPp4aYwhLpgozRdhjVTPckzFTOkws4j4LftPFrXi_xv4DoWtP3s8xIjIU3r0cHnNHdc34pExIpgHFbVlL13wN=s370"/></a>
</td>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhJEWAJpquDFABFpV2U75LJ8opW3-qIt4aJK81HjTJG58fsg_MS1WMevk2uP7Lrz7Nn11tR4f9atQ4d7APMpJ2GNiJBd7G82STk_4RLaBN3-Kbm6XVol3FxED-dK2ZakKVYj-VXkzZUUhA-cFrMQ7btT7j61DUZ8wgFXAy8w1y8N6w48USKO0Hi6vHN=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhJEWAJpquDFABFpV2U75LJ8opW3-qIt4aJK81HjTJG58fsg_MS1WMevk2uP7Lrz7Nn11tR4f9atQ4d7APMpJ2GNiJBd7G82STk_4RLaBN3-Kbm6XVol3FxED-dK2ZakKVYj-VXkzZUUhA-cFrMQ7btT7j61DUZ8wgFXAy8w1y8N6w48USKO0Hi6vHN=s370"/></a>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<p>
<table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 966
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhOMcw4M8zEqP-HCH01vnPht2c8rsNYzp_Lboz4BNT-nSIF4XpM17LNkqAhEH2t3_JAvP7IuaOrL_idFQM8abSDYpTbS2dLu58n8-zOaUFRi_Klt2lhodS3iM9_lEfDP7hx0R4jTp2B3O9rXIdvH45SaxE5MvNW2VULViSGCo_KZ-4TVg4uY3zVSByL=s240" />
<br />
Sardinella albella
<br />
White Sardinella
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 967
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhjxEqRJszWPaFixgrW5EHgPKo1Fu4U0at3SsPSQT4HdS5RcwA8Zh6UMwqanfJrSHuhzVSHUR-_-MdY-5ZnnA4bpwysuh4zd3sXMqiFOZSzsvHBCLHj2dFjxmO5XUSjXsNmSzz5Jp_dNFDzeRqE5nEiTtJkzsFJqRbKkqE9_El_wOrwpKQEN1Q66gJw=s240" />
<br />
Gazza minuta
<br />
Toothpony
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 968
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg8fUIhrbaV-VsNgdUa-D65yE4dR7ZYP--HdbN-MsNmQSaDkN_tE9gLw6PRu6NFnDGXQMUtYFoZLfQ7bg_EQ5VRFazkcxHEvZ-onWcZ5wkVXmh6NOqDwTwQNfG82KNkG6Nsg8IqpZrBCPazrk8qCj5E-il3UnCiYWJiJFnrAnUmEmPbZiY0VTr4Un67=s240" />
<br />
Tripodichthys blochii
<br />
Long-tail Tripodfish
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Species 969
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEicPiw17XYnZCV6wQp-gRb6i8TPxqH8EQIXYKQXq_obc-Xlwh6O3PaVTwPi4FiFADzy_c7l8wV376nooiHZdLvAlrBpVvInBlgr-4INgDu21FC1wja6c_sB8mRyYyeoloyCm8Lc1P5pLcl2C1yKkfubkgo7FqTUjUaUf3QWxNTsvlW095tyDkWiJbO5=s240" />
<br />
Lethrinus lentjan
<br />
Pinkear Emperor
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 970
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgGJQOD1W7oZFHUOF2gT2I7V_sreJX0S_Edzw2hjgT2_d3BwLOI3I5jQ3eh-F3HtRQzLfAPFDKh-NaJCKoESQJO9b8Q-0tLzRHHpyKD-D3fW708XAn9we5KiZsRd9lfRCEekOQLHA0yx41F5A8qjFc-Rjx9yumc2DsKQQ1NGmMWoh41E3IGHpBU4yOS=s240" />
<br />
Pentapodus setosus
<br />
Butterfly Whiptail
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 971
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgjqapx9jYP_6za_4CUjvb8IQdVhqPa3tSQPTBL_4w-D0rdroe4Nz10msSMk09MwXHI7105qL7Oks9BWjwo4AvcYuzkhZOjPFoGh9S9XwTfMXzMv1W5MS_LUt9Hr4t11v5GfH9fyRPNHjY0PbhH0lvCufTnM209nPOuj0cN8NM5Ib0dya4TjqxZPULH=s240" />
<br />
Oplegnathus fasciatus
<br />
Barred Knifejaw
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Species 972
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhpvQPCxsXoyHksG2ongmQOMhzUFXjUy7QyCMCYNFlQoBSn5JAubew4ggtuWAsmTXb9URXDNk7CzG2rNTm9pk7p1ndFaQT5JmRiRtNb5glr1ETr1U2Y3dzrHdt7UIVJRxpe7ANGZAu_B2XYVHMnkMV6RCqESvtNvj-RNTKRzMwOQ5zFd0F8pMCs605C=s240" />
<br />
Gerres erythrourus
<br />
Deep-Bodied Mojarra
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 973
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEimjzIzs47y0QOWEebnMX_bxrL08EFfqLLeDrGlmNKyiwRu4ixG574XSkDAGAMzucaIfVTvKGBk0YCecLqQVUi20ELf6GqbW_TYdvsfrnkbPw4hstXUO3kb4QzQ3L37Tp6HUCcL5F6GGlnFRypNNvvmKJDNTS7Gyfc8FJBVKB8jNSFdg0loaJpeA5gE=s240" />
<br />
Nemipterus peronii
<br />
Notchfin Threadfin Bream
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 974
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhtVrKz52sbFi3mDBmrkmwG4MwV5WcJ6LwbUkj5o0CNRaUw9bCCN2P_OM8Kj9t3jhY5A8qlBK4HYnG3U513-wc-nPgCRWFo2rmRAUNxmCWOwGGMsCC65Nquy5o_AESAAelHn09IhcAB3pLYl5HduuyCsH9XTNv45L63s3RuPl76lTwU4Tfu5I17AML9=s240" />
<br />
Tripodichthys oxycephalus
<br />
Short-Tail Tripodfish
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Species 975
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhSnw9DnBMHtzVqufF6RwNj6WdMDGECN2y7PhPq5f7WdU2m1F38xnN1qLqFnd5j4L5KymVx2A37G4vbUo162rA5yDpRMMdom0G4tz59zg_4_ZRahJ7UxjQ6XHjtgS6tBuPKlBOI18hYFIKuRc_eBzNB71LQdW2tnPL7A4uke8Du1nNJcefguW0zIBKn=s240" />
<br />
Scolopsis monogramma
<br />
Monogrammed Monocle Bream
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 976
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhzpUE-X58c_bwt6unzrtAwSYlatNTebtZ1ZkFybUamIa-5oIEpgpETuVWlSL82RS_VMA6f8ZxR1DnMxtB4CxRX4QVKZxZ8GwuPG3mZohwMy_D8BBonSqlQ1rcvmHZcjltRc8xwX0KVIlmEeCJmuwchIZf453Sf1jkLvkhrNQV3XtgsyUyVGGFkGbaT=s240" />
<br />
Pomacentrus cheraphilus
<br />
Silty Damsel
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 977
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgYLqVFuaJw3TvGY6Oj74EwJ8UA7dnBiiNe8lGmAB4rauBmrpydm9BmfVcVah-hT13KzYC_mdGmSK5na-1AUMzCmzAVaFr4cFy3Yn6mP0cOTzG_0IDInvzsmvfUlOb3SvwVz8LncwNaaooykJCy1kTieRm2SmduQ5Fb7FZmwfCQLDJZAPgsicffhVBq=s240" />
<br />
Ostorhinchus endekataenia
<br />
Candystripe Cardinalfish
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Species 978
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEivdNJ0nX-j8jnHE6xA0HKCWLJQC-Yk-RHm3yHJuZzo7gzUcgCPkTFZs7qXGxabAUo3pFCaKYPu6mWH1KM4vbA5twhhd8XQQAE1CR7cNyJK0ABdjS7Hc88dJDPD_nmdOdeMN38AYmdDurBli0C24T3b6in5GfpBCUG09JWwj9RYkUwUAtx9zdzLVS-w=s240" />
<br />
Terapon theraps
<br />
Largescale Terapon
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 979
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiBmCdfX8_zop_3dZK0aM7f0UC47IZZHXi7jLhWc5fwRUs1YsjR6dp9rnAcnv713OQ336HalfBIlCQsJlLP2ZUiFBeoaZWxkCpvtxWeTkPRlHiWmp-CLxtuI3R-itN7yI6hkBpH5mIV_dPiBqHx4PZycW7vzDHvU5YVdhzX09YqctSEYwTcdYHFahEx=s240" />
<br />
Pomadasys unimaculatus
<br />
Red Patched Grunter
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 980
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgQkOxE8KzvDQJJMMfneLABmMnq85tdmsE0fwgqm-HmR29xY8I1LM5XpsCz_Flx83KRY31rLb30ZCTjQ76wjfO_jLeL3AQKTeh7ZBYwGfz72vfbKcpli1AIvWxk2BMbpsY7M0lDxeWrgug6JWLajE9keFKdPscwA0w0WZI6o9ypjnHNhzzP2TxF5ffx=s240" />
<br />
Pomadasys kaakan
<br />
Javelin Grunter
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr />
<h3>
Dec 21, 2021 - Marina South Pier
</h3>
<p>
<table>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj4Wk_vOfhXz72_1j8NgktGGD71QHX6UZbXLsuExaxGTRgjb3ucpDiGxoMZrBeak-RHmkFaz1BgE3gNHJJ5jxhFZSxfKFPsHTLGQ4QudBgE5vFzTJyQpg6U2VawdufzeUDcfAHC0xv4YKD6d-jhJ33a4eSV1cI55b4Xw_DaTwaOEkPqA6-bBZaXkI5a=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj4Wk_vOfhXz72_1j8NgktGGD71QHX6UZbXLsuExaxGTRgjb3ucpDiGxoMZrBeak-RHmkFaz1BgE3gNHJJ5jxhFZSxfKFPsHTLGQ4QudBgE5vFzTJyQpg6U2VawdufzeUDcfAHC0xv4YKD6d-jhJ33a4eSV1cI55b4Xw_DaTwaOEkPqA6-bBZaXkI5a=s755"/></a>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<p>
</p><table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 981
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgTW36C3hL-sdFCXd2ilg23A9KguqgRQJZttfxcagQWQUZDzaQUZCZNaznebBGhJ-1txfbVqX-kDkRmuZBXuzzdYZShdM0BpDUlDKOqmoKNsaTAf_UwoOb-3ED0fqpyyURnePUTj2isHpAgz2l-69xOveUUFV6P5x7EJUE3rUluWEjbNSeB39YqyFR2=s240" />
<br />
Lutjanus carponotatus
<br />
Spanish Flag Snapper
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 982
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgXQeuv7azc_y1fRqjSJT5PEyvV_QrCs7xVpQ37s0Sizz-gHGlBX8W-Q9BJ6_T02KIOM8nE4OveRgPyTKYw6ZL4Y8PBgwUK5C-QDQVIAVDTvPI-TB4N4bfvytiJUJD8YXsb6rFTKZ3V-CwmtfF9cKCwv0OL9TAklGoO5OF3u9FRFyqxuvPv-Lcbwbhe=s240" />
<br />
Neopomacentrus anabatoides
<br />
Silver Demoiselle
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr />
<h3>
Dec 22, 2021 - Bedok Jetty
</h3>
<p>
<table>
<tr>
<td colspan="2">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg2FXAbbw4OWYdGcqLx7c7LqSp9d9OLwzg3HgYr7NQ-9I9S655y-n5EArgml-C8kAu_86D3frj8AaLGF31BjGDxG74v_EAtpTTXDEnzPvFcx_t4MiSM9ybhyl-LJiM7GgBKU-5b9fCQq3iYyr2sZ2J7W3MjHD3J8mW2eWe7RV2NDkq_qEidri8RFF4c=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg2FXAbbw4OWYdGcqLx7c7LqSp9d9OLwzg3HgYr7NQ-9I9S655y-n5EArgml-C8kAu_86D3frj8AaLGF31BjGDxG74v_EAtpTTXDEnzPvFcx_t4MiSM9ybhyl-LJiM7GgBKU-5b9fCQq3iYyr2sZ2J7W3MjHD3J8mW2eWe7RV2NDkq_qEidri8RFF4c=s755"/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMUjK3O1irsXZPYF6md_0_sorxl6XPgYwcMhXBDDGm1NzI8h3o8wAkkd-FEPWGCZS012DMSRpdbm7oCRsdsIximX4hmI-JHlFwkLWj_Rj2o1v0AmfgNRT4uYOsfdhft_ZwtzXH9U_GqrmfsCfVpo56-bFfZmws7c4DPqdTOV852GHFzGCBNkGAnwbk=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMUjK3O1irsXZPYF6md_0_sorxl6XPgYwcMhXBDDGm1NzI8h3o8wAkkd-FEPWGCZS012DMSRpdbm7oCRsdsIximX4hmI-JHlFwkLWj_Rj2o1v0AmfgNRT4uYOsfdhft_ZwtzXH9U_GqrmfsCfVpo56-bFfZmws7c4DPqdTOV852GHFzGCBNkGAnwbk=s370"/></a>
</td>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh1hM3-nN5xhoVaATcpNTYjz__qDHY9XJWHEjA9S-dzLTpw4_igd81rS1HkvBbcqw860aI9GVmyzt9j0FeN7n37FulLhJdqKazeZjFag8IIgFsAKSrWCSm24br6US5uykQI8oMyw7t-_AsWT43eX6vVZ1_yqkPjyYFg9SttTFzMldw5XYGjo78nNprp=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh1hM3-nN5xhoVaATcpNTYjz__qDHY9XJWHEjA9S-dzLTpw4_igd81rS1HkvBbcqw860aI9GVmyzt9j0FeN7n37FulLhJdqKazeZjFag8IIgFsAKSrWCSm24br6US5uykQI8oMyw7t-_AsWT43eX6vVZ1_yqkPjyYFg9SttTFzMldw5XYGjo78nNprp=s370"/></a>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<p>
</p><table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 983
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPkTRRglUCt_A9J8avzf5sh8NoNwuEzSSbqx3B6nXIwQzhUiuXoL5rFbTXqFx6MSNiaiCkcUho7YoiYvBIHd5xEt2FuE7vhV7fhjEdfCXvSfjcFiWuMlGUE5wnYxsZ2hrxpYnDP0y7emDgrvzoeUOexHKkR0kiaMzbcejg_4V43It9JrViwxnASBd4=s240" />
<br />
Scomberoides tol
<br />
Needlescale Queenfish
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 984
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiW7fVmcaUk_G5-RTGnJI_t7WT641iDMROVTY5DHt08KiQ3gZVrVnogD08y3ZuRigLisaLJslbA6skC5bZIS1kzz3hUXcEbdmBdd6oDRWv-ZZt2I_Es0ipUU8IdNjqiSjUcuWF2qCHczdoKx_hJ66TTBTOpWg1KAbVjcZe2INQ5sDNyw1v8iHBsO8JP=s240" />
<br />
Ambassis vachellii
<br />
Vachelli's Glass Perchlet
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 985
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgVMG2izGTaZT6oXy8PGlfYMh-0qSFdswXqZMxxS77tBJUIyLwwTR4m4V2mNnBk6qCOlORrrG_r6dkN4deRAEHxsTUo-K_HhDApkJKCUXA1oTPFbeYyTiEMfSG2J2UtoScqwAzlXbyYG9AQQNkv0Rt9EozSMXPPbtGtG91-rsoXgaRZ73Kts50ti6lO=s240" />
<br />
Ostorhinchus pleuron
<br />
Rib-Bar Cardinalfish
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Species 986
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjeZLkws0ujJPe9MeQx5g5IHYnuY07DLvHwAR5rlxxrxyRX9GEgeWP6fHNz0HZ9v9qdMLWcJYv8e-ggQ2nz42W-oyQEnDOg-yQylqZv7MsxpQP3GHvFeO1tRMjgHImWNy9hRrMHdK1ljUCm6FfmUjllt1Mthu-gbAM-QYE7moZCDBolQtisBMY_iRoI=s240" />
<br />
Lagocephalus lunaris
<br />
Lunartail Puffer
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 987
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhSzaPY4xTyL-yECitKBAUd1d3uyikcVpJAvcI2W1JXyn6eQ65j231u8aTSox4mwg_Bo3Z5f6rSpyNnMCK_bqevxzJaR08p89vXth5GBtaGAdEycqPMTqLDA8Wsxun1EBAPfW6n-uYWSOaG592JK1yW_BJ6J7V6GHWPhMy89VIkR-cCe8vn0DQARarA=s240" />
<br />
Choerodon anchorago
<br />
Orange-Dotted Tuskfish
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 988
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjZShMGbyfT2LMS1gotrtfVopQjDP2LFQL9VD2nsQJH_XXMJca-eq7BYljkBaL-lN9dd-XFMFipSC9SPTm4G8tHjs_SkGBVb5dlp9xMAjNNecFCiJaPrgDH7jNIGuqbOlDGZzCkAJSFxcHcnT9cDYj8IzTeFnEveVNQScNfuurcUXeu_-8_ijr8PUYC=s240" />
<br />
Equulites leuciscus
<br />
Whipfin Ponyfish
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Species 989
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgwKHBTStJdOMoxE-M4od6FlE1yin7h4qTumM8BGbtaNKxwsEI20JAxXSIeCvI7Yb-c8V7xISI1VASAJkxNCL8YfHVWh5uBV8Igr7S7ESuPJUwZRvRQWLFcsgL11AjOp1pSXuqDgp27Dx4PESlgm4_ooiIgGDPIj4L8f9XcJ3Zp7tp17rcDTrtpFZrz=s240" />
<br />
Cryptocentrus pavoninoides
<br />
Peacock Shrimpgoby
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 990
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhvIoh-WeioX366IV3cuMxTSBIR0vkplM92tahasYzxT8lNkeSsMBisgjxnCvWIE7b0Wb8RILeLyWusNdCvjTb73W628xRX7BtSjSktdFQ0ylrBhqaJFKQ-gGDvHp2OsfR_FrZO3y5Hw4cV1s8zVZnzTFRbXZE9YrZkxnZZLEHWL-aI8o2fb_2MvaiJ=s240" />
<br />
Halichoeres bicolor
<br />
Pearly-Spotted Wrasse
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 991
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgM9OBgX-EoE3K4SbQBt9XKaUdrD3eTUUYTKOtGj9yfmgMdJQki9ee5aMRVX-tlklQNEwcfzbo1KjiJOhzmAejDdpTL8-18SE4gjjZtdSE_86t1R4DdychbMgC_mNjzbTQ2YEVrwy3hvW4kkuPIcR3dTnd4i7_2RXdWCLJcpPgXnxbT9Btja2qVcuwE=s240" />
<br />
Aurigequula fasciata
<br />
Striped Ponyfish
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Species 992
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEir1RRnG64iOT6goJLj4GT3p9BcjKaZzbhfhvgW_lDDsMWl_RBBM2q8Hk79hBtWevby3yaFF5SDEjrlwq2lH3I1vskI5uN710BNtVHdsaLytkgI37a4dQmtQOk1AWcKzy2tt3wLs3jo244QjA5rq9ILi-dz-f2GXgOikElpPZXtYCtBVNB_gNt4UXm-=s240" />
<br />
Paraplotosus albilabris
<br />
Whitelipped Eel Catfish
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 993
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjs094MIE4OFVGGuNbQA01eO-xq_5m-2uXMtHW79aKOGkiqXbDd5z5KordVbwH-tTVJs8spgQ4a-J5Kf6VHgf9ndzQY054T_OIP3EizYoKapSj_uR0NIbUuamXmDjMIXwwcFlecCntLC2UpjSAq0ggyjIsjbnPBLyU_7HEwRuR3JLdOQzV25JElyXYi=s240" />
<br />
Plotosus lineatus
<br />
Striped Eel Catfish
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 994
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg0yrokb6je8MUS2ce1co_ZFmPcnxZ5conGx21zVoZFGOtk63K-OsbadTQsqi-aKEwfp0Lgqpo-KTf6WNPOkW5sfvKt5pDH62u_mhw-Wd_f86rM3TAYr3MBz4hhJXzkcQLvHdAJtbuvafLxEAK1wy4oBM3_Wg3QQNnnjWUePFitusO8SgjYLQQNKij6=s240" />
<br />
Batrachomoeus trispinosus
<br />
Three-Spined Frogfish
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr />
<h3>
Dec 23, 2021 - Kranji Reservoir Jetty
</h3>
<p>
<table>
<tr>
<td colspan="2">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjspSDVUbrVclzzv-mgqCUrHlnD-2a5ZfHSCbCvVxMDXxCcfUdQEfl1nxa0kIcZ3Dh9QI3YiJqkiEUErCVX8o7l6kLFrU7cSROzC54a6mZW3oc_CkoZRA-RyQfezEbhe1gOaxgyXPMEZftUZayEvGaijkRMwIyfkSF4-A_DF6Q1r38YWQ7C5QiQ0ffE=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjspSDVUbrVclzzv-mgqCUrHlnD-2a5ZfHSCbCvVxMDXxCcfUdQEfl1nxa0kIcZ3Dh9QI3YiJqkiEUErCVX8o7l6kLFrU7cSROzC54a6mZW3oc_CkoZRA-RyQfezEbhe1gOaxgyXPMEZftUZayEvGaijkRMwIyfkSF4-A_DF6Q1r38YWQ7C5QiQ0ffE=s755"/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg0S9hpOngf-thdCxlMUpljPXlqaKzMlXkagJE88GMpg6nU0SNOwvjOsoblzQv7DUqbgt2veYCyG6TKgwJZc6ntPZSV1FJixQH69xBfgaeV7AgMAMcgxcz1Cou4JzKHErtVMB9_eoEJKcwL1ich-eIEgp0Y_PtsO-UdWkUBTEZ6eRH5YmqhRO68MObv=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg0S9hpOngf-thdCxlMUpljPXlqaKzMlXkagJE88GMpg6nU0SNOwvjOsoblzQv7DUqbgt2veYCyG6TKgwJZc6ntPZSV1FJixQH69xBfgaeV7AgMAMcgxcz1Cou4JzKHErtVMB9_eoEJKcwL1ich-eIEgp0Y_PtsO-UdWkUBTEZ6eRH5YmqhRO68MObv=s370"/></a>
</td>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMI9C1-ftPd76lQ7CuiJNWDvv8Rf-RCjZH74gR_ogJzgFAn5mjI6RsHAtkCgJZBpDXYEFvdkvBb9TcAZEhH4Vaow4YMOKNoR8r38OpWuTeAsDpfhbmvnV4r6VZfKsbVenfz1VAafjYHgEN4M2gRyoHFBoLchOcqGtKs9UHK4K2Zd4BdlHEcpGl7S3n=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMI9C1-ftPd76lQ7CuiJNWDvv8Rf-RCjZH74gR_ogJzgFAn5mjI6RsHAtkCgJZBpDXYEFvdkvBb9TcAZEhH4Vaow4YMOKNoR8r38OpWuTeAsDpfhbmvnV4r6VZfKsbVenfz1VAafjYHgEN4M2gRyoHFBoLchOcqGtKs9UHK4K2Zd4BdlHEcpGl7S3n=s370"/></a>
</td>
<td>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<p>
</p><table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 995
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgq22zJfEkD3SOg9uHKUHX4QvUnruaJQ3MRe4WS6yjU8t-5_RYOpVVOfr2PqR8hxgFbvy-d2BSo-jTJ4gvM3s_q0Sgio0XE0l3UXCBxg0ybYzfu-hwJgoFperUeml5M0n0g5HmGWfxSmrCoUMxlJogNo3iZCxKOo0qiudzqBgeRaT3xZ2TAXUg2zTLU=s240" />
<br />
Yarica hyalosoma
<br />
Humpbacked Cardinalfish
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 996
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgOjKLAgHM8Owu2bknKAjYVLbyipL9Yox8FQr8vdSo7p2qpqwojrQNE-2dzAB2j5bbACc_qicyetWm-ihEaJ-DcjOT1kcHfL3nHcNccDw6qcJIybaJkfWvBcP_B4xTmHyzmtriTynELA38Mr9zLjFmtktMPXMXFOIXzScr9gU66RrO7NvNnTSIJBQkO=s240" />
<br />
Acentrogobius viridipunctatus
<br />
Spotted Green Goby
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 997
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhN0wgH26SiwQSnRRCqmsfLvaJG0YFYdQ8myxDlcUNGooHjy0LBtjt__mB9nHwmeLgeA3k3bbM9mCyu8074iXi0YTK8G34MxbWXTedlRi8JgtMVyiaw9-Mu7rsDLwwXJOFtGj3U3PvskuBJ-zDsmZN0rF2bloylzUR1fWFc6xjwIACdiag_gwzdmzcx=s240" />
<br />
Butis butis
<br />
Duckbill Sleeper
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr />
<h3>
Dec 24, 2021 - Pulau Ubin
</h3>
<table>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjP35SmTWhQesO5h6mF7m6hYEWlOcrOxKcJHyzJqm-b8bkyL6pk-GVflWjlLk436jI6CP2DD8JkphUdfoL_EZ8Wi4h_wgrGwKX6afkZP3zbWxMO_BdqoPNdlefY4DZlq5P_1vyEjdqD0VuZL847WnxfTwV1mucz0vB0CMqie4xu733oxVcqwYjwxcvT=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjP35SmTWhQesO5h6mF7m6hYEWlOcrOxKcJHyzJqm-b8bkyL6pk-GVflWjlLk436jI6CP2DD8JkphUdfoL_EZ8Wi4h_wgrGwKX6afkZP3zbWxMO_BdqoPNdlefY4DZlq5P_1vyEjdqD0VuZL847WnxfTwV1mucz0vB0CMqie4xu733oxVcqwYjwxcvT=s370"/></a>
</td>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhUtUgNYr9N0cQ626LJ9PlNrO0JXWcfN0A47lQ0thVzcwut3iwaga8BC0ZhzMWOy8-mqOuFqGpcq909uzgcpvNSvzhgswdiwU5TjkXOmXU-d6an-QVxkxh4KRmiWFSH6f0ltx58AIgmDfk0JIj1xfNwAw7efVCcvWXm6upTMg85LHkcZ2P_cZfUfvN8=s2000"> <img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhUtUgNYr9N0cQ626LJ9PlNrO0JXWcfN0A47lQ0thVzcwut3iwaga8BC0ZhzMWOy8-mqOuFqGpcq909uzgcpvNSvzhgswdiwU5TjkXOmXU-d6an-QVxkxh4KRmiWFSH6f0ltx58AIgmDfk0JIj1xfNwAw7efVCcvWXm6upTMg85LHkcZ2P_cZfUfvN8=s370"/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjhuiv5lnW0ozxLWf-aO1RcmcN92SHpnLYlJHA4r2TJo78tn14fvS1iZAnqjgPwyHGJLXcXYWw7vDgWTbjTeuk29lWPlpURv9akVGcp1-WKXW4EaWk2BooU9TAOD3ZsQybC38WhN41CC83M36qflp7Lv8WIodlyonKnGhZUncLsxcnKaLz5K_sl1tsT=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjhuiv5lnW0ozxLWf-aO1RcmcN92SHpnLYlJHA4r2TJo78tn14fvS1iZAnqjgPwyHGJLXcXYWw7vDgWTbjTeuk29lWPlpURv9akVGcp1-WKXW4EaWk2BooU9TAOD3ZsQybC38WhN41CC83M36qflp7Lv8WIodlyonKnGhZUncLsxcnKaLz5K_sl1tsT=s370"/></a>
</td>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjhmPXUPENqCMpaXd2CxLHi_FRs8falgtiTWU_tuytYzZHKbDD6SV1oigHypBEfLdBt9xXI6oHEKbjSbehRQNV6AmwlVFkmMHSA0eHRMoP5GlwiNOOJ_s_j-DKIuYikg8BuIT6I3S4y8MQNsJXsXEDnOTSzbR-SJ95fPiIVE2zJsZ3YdvCA2j3zVztv=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjhmPXUPENqCMpaXd2CxLHi_FRs8falgtiTWU_tuytYzZHKbDD6SV1oigHypBEfLdBt9xXI6oHEKbjSbehRQNV6AmwlVFkmMHSA0eHRMoP5GlwiNOOJ_s_j-DKIuYikg8BuIT6I3S4y8MQNsJXsXEDnOTSzbR-SJ95fPiIVE2zJsZ3YdvCA2j3zVztv=s370"/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgCd4uvfx2WyOwbitCLZlUu6w2UDD1J_RGFj4z1axj-GgGqcGWlVhWNEXqniKKJK_EjeLo100fEqgGmNDcYJ5aaB859kzr_EnGhdsQb2K5LF4HZzOJkVfEwxKFxZhzEpea2ev8OZb6y99LU-X_rfUAfsphGqLHkISNWLmyOTIi5WZDS6d8VyO5m4qiv=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgCd4uvfx2WyOwbitCLZlUu6w2UDD1J_RGFj4z1axj-GgGqcGWlVhWNEXqniKKJK_EjeLo100fEqgGmNDcYJ5aaB859kzr_EnGhdsQb2K5LF4HZzOJkVfEwxKFxZhzEpea2ev8OZb6y99LU-X_rfUAfsphGqLHkISNWLmyOTIi5WZDS6d8VyO5m4qiv=s370"/></a>
</td>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhC-sWnAdNnBZBm-TpINFgegNQcfkGqiXWUo7nEx_OaVyJqi6yj2j-_UnTeCCwstSIoUq5zlHZevpzs-PPeFdES67cohXfY_8_ScR1JRdU9-U0esIeZwGw93ucpQFM2PdMQW1MzP19oSQ3ZY3YzGeH3J8pprNuUuWAcNyu56J9JriFpIK6EvYFvGUO8=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhC-sWnAdNnBZBm-TpINFgegNQcfkGqiXWUo7nEx_OaVyJqi6yj2j-_UnTeCCwstSIoUq5zlHZevpzs-PPeFdES67cohXfY_8_ScR1JRdU9-U0esIeZwGw93ucpQFM2PdMQW1MzP19oSQ3ZY3YzGeH3J8pprNuUuWAcNyu56J9JriFpIK6EvYFvGUO8=s370"/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhADLqhKU9faJCNMlvqvHhVoIkDVU6kUP2JTQwZf_kMm0jWnUNP8U9_ia4i9QZ41N7TPsrNF52z0OOhNK5wh7PnUvHQLjgQ-WXa4MWjYIQr2pB-WxbUsBhhIGWOreyZNZpIy6Faj_h3BnjOtUdOh8Ml1Bm3M1LRNRQfHITP-vif-uEWbbxjgKhuSAyR=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhADLqhKU9faJCNMlvqvHhVoIkDVU6kUP2JTQwZf_kMm0jWnUNP8U9_ia4i9QZ41N7TPsrNF52z0OOhNK5wh7PnUvHQLjgQ-WXa4MWjYIQr2pB-WxbUsBhhIGWOreyZNZpIy6Faj_h3BnjOtUdOh8Ml1Bm3M1LRNRQfHITP-vif-uEWbbxjgKhuSAyR=s370"/></a>
</td>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgAvu0KI-G88qG_8YYBRABUrZwrzLKnM4D-m_4gX3V8GXKGbur6U3lBon6sIxmu1bYt_8BtlE3G7cBzc9f7sEM1j3xxVfCkTmsOGblwAmSUgPExKBcK6CVXD-SQfcqKlcnVirTqvNbE_yYPtjVIe-m3iuzl8fYnCNIAas1HhV6RvNxGP3Ujyja1CrM8=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgAvu0KI-G88qG_8YYBRABUrZwrzLKnM4D-m_4gX3V8GXKGbur6U3lBon6sIxmu1bYt_8BtlE3G7cBzc9f7sEM1j3xxVfCkTmsOGblwAmSUgPExKBcK6CVXD-SQfcqKlcnVirTqvNbE_yYPtjVIe-m3iuzl8fYnCNIAas1HhV6RvNxGP3Ujyja1CrM8=s370"/></a>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 998
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh6lU7fgnbmrAFAzmM2CaNd7u41VfCHy0EhOsKFZltzxQXDqtZyLOxgoYdpq0R-DlasqHAWnAQNkzNSKgb69p2OiBrDLycY6zMUYU39LDzItG_z_73kWTMymX9Fo4YpAO6B9xqYlDiD_pZlBHZIlxQMgJT3iJL59-19LdHEOqTVhk6K8zjYok0maXKi=s240" />
<br />
Zenarchopterus buffonis
<br />
Buffons River Garfish
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 999
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjXRgZF5AZKhki6Vm1v80qLyOSLohg1TpUGdxEYGPoD9dPisxqjrX0lxG4RSndWHCLESQxpw4LM0Hn3xwCIPP84xKdSFaoCDwcG-KllzSmt4ght5r6O_Km8trOcfgJhj16FdmdZEg1U22LgsbzWwjGTc_CYuwYftOETlJXlGBHdoPkJEMXspR5mZ2Lu=s240" />
<br />
Periophthalmus variabilis
<br />
Dusky-Gilled Mudskipper
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1000
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjsOdbZuyDUafw1dbLGIy1a2Ud7092OihMpEbr6p1N--FQVarwe4067UJ92GzPbfMmDerxTyaBesV95AtAWKEJk_fcMqpDAwevotNK9PU4Uz5zFMJKO36yaVLniSMOy1ZExAg8PMwo_slIVWGD0ezq9Nqb82ptxddfnG41MN1C7xJw8f3j8iXh4Zglx=s240" />
<br />
Ambassis kopsii
<br />
Singapore Glassy Perchlet
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Species 1001
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgXZQJaZ6KphzmRu2QRrR5BQNhM_zTPxO8CWkQBVzV19NMO5UMbquRTqWKlqYFkOCCZQu2vwU0fwABYa0x9vwRZgCqao0teadnxjXhzKMzifoWetoDl_4qjjAYxtkBAbjH-v19rwi5iOgIZ7kpWWXLt7V8WkFmiwwyUkTQdpeDorCK17v3m14PAqk1x=s240" />
<br />
Stigmatogobius sadanundio
<br />
Knight Goby
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1002
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgblENLlX_5kuhVXwFzCm9bIID6lS65C4HmxuTFL7qUqcbrL1Dpm3mzUL-7bK3p6vLpd033x2zOh5arOR1Ev2bltWcFus1MOAgbpQqyrou6ZOg6ycdE1orzD7Wm8v52IKeJJpY7771okI45-MQNv1OcpwUQYlBEHWSRhb1igpsQOLXOQnV-83F102ph=s240" />
<br />
Fibramia lateralis
<br />
Humpback Cardinalfish
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1003
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiyYMXj0ilIsHhSWfUCyvU_tqobkmxMbzCeu6autnGKO6VW0GPH7qtkb44ufcFf94JBhwRgjg397c7wSkcfLFZv60tyl3zI9uOKUaX1CMLj2AiKNhcApwNGFvlXYV2Nf8kLg5p_ysevdGF2LB_H6xDwC_jQ7qGlHZIZo6LY_xvyxJekHYM6WZoc5DDj=s240" />
<br />
Dichotomyctere nigroviridis
<br />
Spotted Green Puffer
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr />
<h3>
Dec 25, 2021 - Freshwater Part 1
</h3>
<p>
<table>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhGI5XPwMmEjK-WG5FpfKpN87Na1AMl9fHr4H_GpZyAexPR0ooRmzv92F04sdmvdHNZuoxz3aEH4hOv7m914ZQmMg3p04vvcvZIPZBZ43oxefmFFoHc7bt7BDJM46sLMg7DlDh-e-b3m8x2ekRzAryOnLm1Qh2CJVd4GLEB7wVwXQAhxjXdQXmgPIsu=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhGI5XPwMmEjK-WG5FpfKpN87Na1AMl9fHr4H_GpZyAexPR0ooRmzv92F04sdmvdHNZuoxz3aEH4hOv7m914ZQmMg3p04vvcvZIPZBZ43oxefmFFoHc7bt7BDJM46sLMg7DlDh-e-b3m8x2ekRzAryOnLm1Qh2CJVd4GLEB7wVwXQAhxjXdQXmgPIsu=s370"/></a>
</td>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgBRzQ4DA00GPAs0p3UiSF5WGF4N79o596Q_7UnbxYYRTVdBtiicNet8LA_FS5A5moSDGfMPtJwW4KzxjvLj-Jgkwbl-m288Pj4e_-AekO6a88JoxAH7MEcFt7MtMz0s_zJX3oArfTDmv9KVV61KrmXsH1qwMzVpTjl0RkiWSP4gA4eZbGjbxmzpIZZ=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgBRzQ4DA00GPAs0p3UiSF5WGF4N79o596Q_7UnbxYYRTVdBtiicNet8LA_FS5A5moSDGfMPtJwW4KzxjvLj-Jgkwbl-m288Pj4e_-AekO6a88JoxAH7MEcFt7MtMz0s_zJX3oArfTDmv9KVV61KrmXsH1qwMzVpTjl0RkiWSP4gA4eZbGjbxmzpIZZ=s370"/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi_35jg229QkBBug89kxruIrAGAxFLFhpcOE31oPbRz66xgQeT8Tlth9J-ojfRtCY1l6sz-8ASCcocnGFF2jrdaOdmQ9cEXbj1E6WwZk1z-0iLjraWuW0biUxjYT5WmFax3HiNQJbXxSkCVA0IHC1x8LsZ2N0wD_GSIsK7IbTiAOMUKFQiPFhMN0TN5=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi_35jg229QkBBug89kxruIrAGAxFLFhpcOE31oPbRz66xgQeT8Tlth9J-ojfRtCY1l6sz-8ASCcocnGFF2jrdaOdmQ9cEXbj1E6WwZk1z-0iLjraWuW0biUxjYT5WmFax3HiNQJbXxSkCVA0IHC1x8LsZ2N0wD_GSIsK7IbTiAOMUKFQiPFhMN0TN5=s370"/></a>
</td>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhyATJvOwYngShdbadMe85CGsC4UT-idQZ5L8w7O9t2on0G-kGGafSGLDkSrTHjIyvcbP2PKXrSfqyRdT1roD1yk2E3xLfmaOdohnNqGae5LoXsWPVmt_jfzqS7gDlJI7rYPR8dycBkIjJCqa-eEIPW2ndNSwqpnVjiyia1gJQJwM1ac6o8x6n7bwS9=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhyATJvOwYngShdbadMe85CGsC4UT-idQZ5L8w7O9t2on0G-kGGafSGLDkSrTHjIyvcbP2PKXrSfqyRdT1roD1yk2E3xLfmaOdohnNqGae5LoXsWPVmt_jfzqS7gDlJI7rYPR8dycBkIjJCqa-eEIPW2ndNSwqpnVjiyia1gJQJwM1ac6o8x6n7bwS9=s370"/></a>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<p>
<table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 1004
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgpLNM_TdxnLMBl5FDu4rxbA1cRA7E8UtFnFL_GmbkPGVNJ2kFh4N1hkZaQjRPApyzAcoH8MLseMVcipNf32XKO-tJpv137bfzrqU-fMEovS8L1X-GqbCQOCJ3jGWjQbw6LOjOQLgreU6XH-9DYSc3fV9R_cU0CG557A_961xRxHqddufm16iwdzNfk=s240" />
<br />
Clarias gariepinus
<br />
North African Catfish
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1005
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj9GWfV4eIFv9UljA15sY0KF4iFYgUVhUt2IhcM4Sy8gnmtR0khxzct-9_pWgNYsCH5E3s34vnkh1xwO-44bdWVA3_FMhbR3uQGu8G_ff3pRNQCbAqSfpEIJntFqc0JhdBxi_BZP-xS3lxRKRzK6T2aeB2lvtmuRlhKBIs-tFCo1uUX6p2RKC6xwf-s=s240" />
<br />
Poecilia reticulata
<br />
Guppy
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1006
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhbGKNpDPTcJLtkOM7vi7_f_uVbg_WXHzKLYVu2_EVobW9qiXh2ZYkmgW_gARLroVPKUaQysJTaaQA-I6jhjs_DUxtJj5RedzBhNjyWhoVhk6JmLhF1CyDwoaM5xpS3r3tKIxCBo1s9CnpCmNJyKI8MbrUgxnYvM5SgNWpVscj8Ksv1BCl5lym_lxbU=s240" />
<br />
Barbodes rhombeus
<br />
(No common name)
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 1007
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhB2bW1BfwH6nWbFzJGPdhdJ1VA11X4PeyG_xNQpjcvtqzKcJMdpTiSgwW1FIXi7bLlh5Ie9HIoN0W-Kpa9sCfcASiZr39MrA5X3A36FswOVIbK0yDyYfX9PxkCXSB6KZPDH18cRw8GJ6fldYz0kxgKjpExjgMr0gNm72MKeAhen-POLE3claxm2Tcn=s240" />
<br />
Danio albolineatus
<br />
Pearl Danio
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1008
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj1qPm87hT4xmxl_SaBXu5fwCkTFAd8wMqTfTVvUnxtZY-aFfpxtmtGzUYtWWjNazwAjvQVManNgJ5OPjbd5lSvE6dWTRjiw5jjTlvds7IuEjo2H-29VeoQEpEiEZONZUy_VQGN3Mr2QmLcxQL72rkCj3cml4MFZw257kEwGMkI_hjatuMRxLVrpjgm=s240" />
<br />
Betta pugnax
<br />
Penang Betta
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1009
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhT14RwM2N-yuKzi5tlcbOVkSabeZ42OERv8igL9T-2J1PA6tJED1sAxbm4_wgxxXAcrTVPqBvh-1FTPLoNrpCfzSIx4S3So35U2dSNXSXaqDYe_q4PZDrWbuMsHPp9KLa1At9trL77ZT5wbRdyeGel-tB7e46S6TihjFo_V9fa0KvAkx6xQxCTXu2s=s240" />
<br />
Etroplus suratensis
<br />
Green Chromide
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Species 1010
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh2gxP-nKs_QgfeUMZ0KnGmppGYyxKozUc6MExuJ6SmcRrxIEO020H7cClQlnlI0ncp2olwOXznEqC5yoU-fe80xGuAU8-Q5NOUr216gQpN1UN6cw8dwXz8ueg12p0pSLpJLNr9_Z6Ws1PVhQirawIdun9NbzhMo26VqHG-m56NgvfZjzQa5VL-c_SN=s240" />
<br />
Pseudogobiopsis oligactis
<br />
(No common name)
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1011
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEigAflC0mdmC3V_JmGukOvQ90YLYhfQjz6GpHV0K8u93ihdXcJjBD_A6Sj3v0PyknXj_kwGbrwdFTpuKuuRpZ4co7OPxsrk7uLCIyFUINdpabrknh1ebWZ0moEu8ME_TKuuhLiFhRB7z6GWO9_e0cvuKrDg1QQ6Vf1bHsUaomLJaHSJoahJsOyT4h1F=s240" />
<br />
Glossogobius aureus
<br />
Golden Tank Goby
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
<br /></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr />
<h3>
Dec 26, 2021 - Freshwater Part 2
</h3>
<p>
<table>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhgIBsi3bVawsKIalJF3VKw6HUJRebilw78EKhaYVZz0SjfCfPZMhf_UMNFUB8-0ARKOphJbRi1_MPGQcNoLX95RYMHGSXFY0inZonB0zqj81t-KpRHdJuS23EvnrrypuyTbeE_y_xcZzRjmsF4KviwvGnp4i6II0KpmXob_TcjZvwVQGLPebNJNvCi=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhgIBsi3bVawsKIalJF3VKw6HUJRebilw78EKhaYVZz0SjfCfPZMhf_UMNFUB8-0ARKOphJbRi1_MPGQcNoLX95RYMHGSXFY0inZonB0zqj81t-KpRHdJuS23EvnrrypuyTbeE_y_xcZzRjmsF4KviwvGnp4i6II0KpmXob_TcjZvwVQGLPebNJNvCi=s370"/></a>
</td>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgH76Qz6l8mQ-vtyGrmXFzzSnCEryaBstGc0xu5fk5djXw_Vzj1rp5UdJfPKzOgBqXTcfAujMdvD5uupUQvpJYVh7uoELE2EVXQzZWSIud9EtMyQ6UseEaCAdkW21fII8N2QoRFTA4BCECbOcDQIrvlfBRXJjNWlUo3u6MLgEg0YHlK99wZXEDQaTGM=s370"/>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh6cwaE2tG8w8yLRozW2WjmffgbAXljKRxv2ZyLm_ZDwE5Ht1RIzhiQ5f-B5dczzymehPiC32IWHgIJG2VvMfrmlBVG-2QuW6izvLM6d8587THZhwhQf7bIoEEvC30kqR0BrtCLPFA7l4NZ6L8BC8TpkOV3NhcYuJeSb8DOeGcsZSxBIXtsVqj0QQpd=s370"/>
</td>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgTsg6_Z7pgZLQHSmy6txcVmS5rB6jZuebKxJG5iunrmYeuu3WpU8XW4LqTcC8J5-IWahY5Bxl--Fd4L7C2n-NMDLRP7x6ZWidvHJFHalup-nWrjmzvz4yPyYzZF6Wgs01Zq_Al8W1G6dBXGKmYfZ7nIGiuJEfMnbR4yLJCMXgAC1hBTx6VEvTEbhbq=s370"/>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiliXVwBgMbW7pzOYo3vS6Yq41G1Z97Yul15y193dKpGz3LfgM8YjxG-vZ4wlSNeAwpcrV3PJiJhVWuJVgqUDfHM8w3EM9L6zQK-tPEG77oHWLasRWV7SVlNWxQOIkLwT0p-xGCBUVyQwUSWgSkZLne7-R1T95iHNcAM-0pNqNfB-IheGkz2fAsz9QM=s370"/>
</td>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh4SpUP70e0704565ggfutLJ-xv2_lVa2NpAhilG5DNtubpDOz6707N8kb7t9JDqmz7HZGSPOhi1QRHtpG1eJUMcnwRXey42K4ysL_lE-ru85n69yY9sq5-wiWFtdWvu6Wre0o7fTb1eEQ2lXqHprdq5wr4xk7GtKLlvALq47mU4-b2z3iYt40LuCcH=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh4SpUP70e0704565ggfutLJ-xv2_lVa2NpAhilG5DNtubpDOz6707N8kb7t9JDqmz7HZGSPOhi1QRHtpG1eJUMcnwRXey42K4ysL_lE-ru85n69yY9sq5-wiWFtdWvu6Wre0o7fTb1eEQ2lXqHprdq5wr4xk7GtKLlvALq47mU4-b2z3iYt40LuCcH=s370"/></a>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<p>
<table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 1012
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgVZExJKThRaj5__Iz8FSD8JqDxIaR2IeIfmAk1KXaGZ5bwswcRa699QaNdKYmOAy6FYRwOgdUteH0OE-zOJym8IsQF99bcvwgvw9bVlk7uA_WexjFAnb5JtbhzPGzQNu1TmYyc0rIX4NUYw3iqDQ7bASIDUx7XelQ4gGJZ9tr9mdMlyjoB9eYc1Xg2=s240" />
<br />
Rasbora borapetensis
<br />
Redtail Rasbora
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1013
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMnPItwzRQX1gvJeBfC_siLBGffddut-WafVZ-x5xo8ZqYKoE9wHpjj0MJVpQpt2GDSLRs7FJ8h_v5-pU0Zt4n_pzcpgr8_kY9c1M9WCTeULfi7qKL-PwnB0sHkhGFHISfx_l2oWX1pSte2SJUINqHL2Vd6WgTUKdqTCHglYeH9kDLXDlU2Patlwpl=s240" />
<br />
Aplocheilus lineatus
<br />
Striped Panchax
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1014
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgGwC4qFqRgwSXy-w3E34CQWJZTmanp8DNNrOg5flKHj9GYprMAe6VkOVcpAfWb0p5HjidsSkP3ZnKo315ur9zRs5WdXER-obix3GlBO9svha9MUDopwHZwthX6Zdzu63TwpXMgQuKanSCBvNp4NohOQ6bL_eP-xkoRJf5FjZycEN0P994u_j149lWY=s240" />
<br />
Acarichthys heckelii
<br />
Threadfin Acara
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Species 1015
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjkVTEafk-hn1Wdm4KQy5Ae6T-gM7D8GyBo7bmuXKCbV6gNzaDRmaZX_1LOZpispJzXwrO2rPZkDSCsoQgHaZRuZpBIE9TaGFqmHyZz88DnfaTHCYCSQYAWNlOXbxpCUcqa3xQh9tqoSlzNsjdC8-ug7S3thB5g3bP-AOhDmEd9iSFjD0UrPNDCqlXR=s240" />
<br />
Rhinogobius similis
<br />
Amur Goby
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1016
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEimVjdvrb03pESwbAIN7PnsugtPLoYrXehXsF9-J5tq3uaYzttYKR9dhKAYWavR8dI2yBhH0A_ahmb59S98bhEZBPz7fK2BtvNCcauLvQgkjsvjrOj-tIExFIWqDyuZpLU2LWjIgjCtKJpBf2XGT4-mod2mtZjd2zSvMg35MlXXGLqDEYFFOOrb5qv0=s240" />
<br />
Aplocheilus panchax
<br />
Blue Panchax
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
<br /></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr />
<h3>
Dec 27, 2021 - St. John's Island Day 1
</h3>
<p>
<table>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgkGkOmxU5ksqGXg4gM5pLA7bbZKuvzkc6LDaOIbhyBcwLvgv2Kq5Ht8dVwYAuCCagQW-zR5ZOOS_EUuWSF4BVWNc9XELNyq7L8ks_JAatP0Mqrme8ag6E39erPOuUWjxj-7vFWuUl-vcvXDxU_AUBHbB1rTw8gZ7zKzi0cJinWxVkLdb0tiH_FhLAN=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgkGkOmxU5ksqGXg4gM5pLA7bbZKuvzkc6LDaOIbhyBcwLvgv2Kq5Ht8dVwYAuCCagQW-zR5ZOOS_EUuWSF4BVWNc9XELNyq7L8ks_JAatP0Mqrme8ag6E39erPOuUWjxj-7vFWuUl-vcvXDxU_AUBHbB1rTw8gZ7zKzi0cJinWxVkLdb0tiH_FhLAN=s370"/></a>
</td>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiDTRRVGIQWT8y5X7i_ZiNyevnS3Qh8wnNMpBMaKyvTY3xceuYQg8sTUqbdwA5_VW_mDWVKzIEMY4oD73Rdg_B6FMfwHoBTmOKxh-q-ws2iif5A-lJlZ51JSqUtYGRBxlaSdx9QMvgl91QCfBGoIXNjaurU8I1EXko9wtWzFWCm_wOPELTo2LSg7MMr=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiDTRRVGIQWT8y5X7i_ZiNyevnS3Qh8wnNMpBMaKyvTY3xceuYQg8sTUqbdwA5_VW_mDWVKzIEMY4oD73Rdg_B6FMfwHoBTmOKxh-q-ws2iif5A-lJlZ51JSqUtYGRBxlaSdx9QMvgl91QCfBGoIXNjaurU8I1EXko9wtWzFWCm_wOPELTo2LSg7MMr=s370"/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEimFom1-nn7nWAxYac-E5VpHjFzjpzXlnsOApxSBmpDcZrY7q98B8bITudeuG2VkOOIsZfBK2mbXsbQIqRUrqKhulz0xItkpHR2V5TlcUc0Fqn0ACIKlpi7qqUQgegqqjtW-yM0DghbQNuuYxhZRAbSJVYWZogqg-R0pcmOrP3Qj1fLjBhZ9S-9hJI_=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEimFom1-nn7nWAxYac-E5VpHjFzjpzXlnsOApxSBmpDcZrY7q98B8bITudeuG2VkOOIsZfBK2mbXsbQIqRUrqKhulz0xItkpHR2V5TlcUc0Fqn0ACIKlpi7qqUQgegqqjtW-yM0DghbQNuuYxhZRAbSJVYWZogqg-R0pcmOrP3Qj1fLjBhZ9S-9hJI_=s755"/></a>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<p>
<table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 1017
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh7hbbUi53TEMXyMe1YIStpbo1deYnKLbJ_fJzyvPbqePkh5RPlSDqo0YX_G9df2qjiTGc7Zd2x1Y9ElAiNjF04PA8-95l6RGlbuu0FFtoHdU1zSbI7gLjxc3UZ3EBGMJLin-OweNmK58i2bATk2STAYeNulxhWM9UuBWpM7_Ohpe_oQ-YJrDacWfq9=s240" />
<br />
Periophthalmus chrysospilos
<br />
Gold-Spotted Mudskipper
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1018
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiUtsne3PzZknTIujZaAYWlUEOLcW7BfjDbR-gQtXY3zS3QxyYCIGT0WuqS8U26OHc71uaXhjTQldyEtvOWSpwbjKM8yGyerfU94W8Cp94698BdwCP8wj1k6andjcq6ukoOGcCYW3ULWxSlz8LAokfUpEXp0AchYtpMJXy7wBwOPqESPUm9lE5zVwpz=s240" />
<br />
Periophthalmus walailakae
<br />
(No common name)
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1019
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgwycjrVQIfi84zv1PRot3--hIePoW-R_L1QeBbr-ABCUwFKrXuBlcMc0-H6py_20VUWQCL-5pP6mMa7eZqZ9wEvbVsyOBXAZofNmkxVPGu1lfwVy5WKmET_xsm55Ozj3GMJDICCHXh7Jhe-fd_WVFpqQJAvBfOdD3MQiYCWusp3Zwgz4acN_c1cVx1=s240" />
<br />
Exyrias puntang
<br />
Puntang Goby
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Species 1020
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgwmv2NnqQ7gB90R04SHZ3uT6vC4AWMVgyHLDsAtlBiWab61oJZsz-6i8VkE05ODqRwK7P62dljlQXI0rhJnRBPuSE5Zb6OZUPF_MQe3LaqSg4bpEL_U5OQqfIhPDkhB229Hg5iO1lz5KeDL84_Bf-_Bxa8z6BzGHHyBzaTahX5vIXHM_fPgtWFV5dB=s240" />
<br />
Halichoeres chloropterus
<br />
Pastel-Green Wrasse
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1021
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiBw3fN6awbejXVkqTedoVgwZCZQKmQBdR3uqI2XYAysern1LtrNEwoF-aoq2P63aQkJURvbZM3aJvgrqeT-31tiQrLMD_-l-9hpUCPSR_MJGdsWdzk-EvZYlu7hGGEOLKzvjkhOG30ysjjIZxMNb8GfZYNiaudtNSawJVEwf-bj4O6sJ6NVD3s1H3w=s240" />
<br />
Halichoeres argus
<br />
Argus Wrasse
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1022
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPk7dxChOGES4n2OG9pfOvU_aPPVoyARwh5mwih9p1z3gvI-2HWFS72EKRuthqPtkRxFgMRYODQkYu_MefJ3D6qSt911qYmSAsikLJy4Gf_3PA_l2rL8dcHa9iZkEa-326lsaHo8pxpAefyBQnqPPaGReUWDfQ13LLvSXRFilzNC6BzHguuYZgzD8P=s240" />
<br />
Cryptocentrus leptocephalus
<br />
Pink-Speckled Shrimpgoby
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Species 1023
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEic8BrUKvtkw1rF2JaOy51DNecZMTRNusbuLOPeUj79DFskY_IS7GfqZK3PPG1G1YBifdwMjMqIbaB5hO48huBCM4mKjvi8wgeiIXHmzkJIuwfc7jdq07T3B1qNt31GfaTBNZamd3tOBYgcsKqhflb6RQO6xKQorUdnn0s2DGPNVUKgULsoAVs7WgZ1=s240" />
<br />
Sillago aeolus
<br />
Oriental Sillago
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1024
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhzZkQcmIm-TMzAyQe-7vQ4qveAhvIXemsyDLUqk-Qt73dBnTcLijgjBJK1d5v5hKsN3wb67kEuHjmDPYjm-LNV-6_FHF4rxCOONhHMAve0z-vlvM5IxtD_bPQMSlTj94tEEYWpG-rBPVGgIfaWq92JnPrMXQntpfeePtzQV7sTLxPF6A4m7mFdgVdi=s240" />
<br />
Apogonichthyoides melas
<br />
Black Cardinalfish
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
<br /></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr />
<h3>
Dec 28, 2021 - St. John's Island Day 2
</h3>
<p>
<table>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEii2CxCPIFS65F02niWV7F6KQ941HCt1sSS8zHeFU5X4eRoFJQQ_kjlb91MYEqft97wqoDC4lnZd9UGENBm5dyfSYF1KYU8t8VcsC_5GOH41Wbc_8GmOntKudQH1ixdE4ij4FcxAMbGH9Vm4962r6ll3zu5iKMHdObRmsEy1JXmTHiz0eQtiI9LCs4F=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEii2CxCPIFS65F02niWV7F6KQ941HCt1sSS8zHeFU5X4eRoFJQQ_kjlb91MYEqft97wqoDC4lnZd9UGENBm5dyfSYF1KYU8t8VcsC_5GOH41Wbc_8GmOntKudQH1ixdE4ij4FcxAMbGH9Vm4962r6ll3zu5iKMHdObRmsEy1JXmTHiz0eQtiI9LCs4F=s370"/></a>
</td>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhFs5Uj5l-TEEM_MKsk_iDtvBbURn0vaMK5lyuPEFoY1H4q56LcSud804JeE8cVk6Ouhr8EwtP3s5LMYue-73rDk2BvV-8Hq3Rg-dTJCXcGKJ5mBsdlZ_QwHEhxJrgmAFNO7cLPwrKiWTsNx9euHkL39YHUuX8lrYeGde0obB35RT5qDKrENuZXk8y6=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhFs5Uj5l-TEEM_MKsk_iDtvBbURn0vaMK5lyuPEFoY1H4q56LcSud804JeE8cVk6Ouhr8EwtP3s5LMYue-73rDk2BvV-8Hq3Rg-dTJCXcGKJ5mBsdlZ_QwHEhxJrgmAFNO7cLPwrKiWTsNx9euHkL39YHUuX8lrYeGde0obB35RT5qDKrENuZXk8y6=s370"/></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgjPZOTuCFq0RCwuJ7T9yPdHMPUQCsREqkL_LTCOI65xhxLGt0NysLZ0F58h02iHCXsJ0R8aHk4zR2KjPZS9IDHF1510pYK7kBnVvuu9Ke_3o0OV-0p2eYrYQIre5EZuTtVPAjmMXW_RtkSQj-goCabceU2Y9UpQzvMIN7VUVBTPvM-quFk_HHq2pbw=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgjPZOTuCFq0RCwuJ7T9yPdHMPUQCsREqkL_LTCOI65xhxLGt0NysLZ0F58h02iHCXsJ0R8aHk4zR2KjPZS9IDHF1510pYK7kBnVvuu9Ke_3o0OV-0p2eYrYQIre5EZuTtVPAjmMXW_RtkSQj-goCabceU2Y9UpQzvMIN7VUVBTPvM-quFk_HHq2pbw=s370"/></a>
</td>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhTLw-QsGm-hdHq8dw66ep73K1HgKIzb0vc9GYkLY6ruJy74YHcGkG2kcSueS_ENkR0QXVjPFmYmXSNUBBFtrIUfVI3MW1gFA0OK70hsnDXGYMm1rDigbYrEKr3hjg-cFldrAPSgnVaS4WzvdY0oUr42RHuDPqtEdjhoPQ8HKSxmEjXHfEvqj38ascK=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhTLw-QsGm-hdHq8dw66ep73K1HgKIzb0vc9GYkLY6ruJy74YHcGkG2kcSueS_ENkR0QXVjPFmYmXSNUBBFtrIUfVI3MW1gFA0OK70hsnDXGYMm1rDigbYrEKr3hjg-cFldrAPSgnVaS4WzvdY0oUr42RHuDPqtEdjhoPQ8HKSxmEjXHfEvqj38ascK=s370"/></a>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<p>
<table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 1025
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhp0Iwr_xUT8SY-FijR3zdxTIsWLYjN3vxFTk5Pjdlp72aUuI1x_g-FzqXSBevVWMV4e2Dr5sWnDDydVdLkYRzZ9ZslLVjIomkn9b8-SEeNVy97VRz9JdXQCOZOtYIYJQoRtHfjkaVAIn_csvJtD9ZE5thjH8pvy2hiekJkzHbTv-F5YkNBqBNz_XWX=s240" />
<br />
Dischistodus fasciatus
<br />
Banded Damsefish
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1026
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhp8dsESRF32D3Nyz_4tg7hX3kD6THfrqlGe5onHEu1mOnO-ooqKG8J4NID2C8uoHDxSs4dQPrT-vqdnrhn4HyZ6615X90mjrp2dgC_wF4elhSE1AukGLHLtX31Orfb6biy827ET9BXZmJ_d8JshAY79i7VWKR-FS8aknEoB2wGv1Z2rk3n09H9oEtd=s240" />
<br />
Choerodon oligacanthus
<br />
White-Patch Tuskfish
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1027
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEilJzIoUKVIpJ80tNg21Xu8glXtCrT8s9NrMQfVA2MUmihvvUrg0f_X90CyzDbsLyjP5FZycowcFQf1eDWA1RhK0lkU8wIL6uI5gMvey1ZmlC-7HNkyAXLxy8qSnox0Pv-TPB37s-An4aecmydkeC0-wDkq2tQ4zhjDwuvG1t9UKfqIHCo8ZVZ_WNU5=s240" />
<br />
Diploprion bifasciatum
<br />
Barred Soapfish
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Species 1028
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgJwn1UJXhAikyQ4IP73O6D4hZ7n4oYLudmk7vINUuzHaYAYVLhL2xTCrzV1cGb0N8wp3gpDplFamcrIyWadnqB3v9r3ZRRD0wuVbSVQcB7vVDZrYALF-O_pYKIThwaSDA0GQFvbt5S1_x4XfOnbmzsZoI9HW5nEvn1xICku2UnKnkWLq0tuYF4xwH7=s240" />
<br />
Halichoeres leucurus
<br />
Greyhead Wrasse
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1029
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMaAafohu3XtmcKSkI9ZNoGLw-t4SZsOzm4xyT-pM8NfPe6gglDFByQXWQRZou6nbdY2Z6u2qDw8uJZhAA3A8TX19cuM94dwE3RWeClXF18omPcw56gyYz1jWNDIWFFZqDNSxiDSjte1iERP1vEhIpFtmBcztz3lpCuCEYkWv39QUomewzAtxYIAAe=s240"/>
<br />
Cephalopholis formosa
<br />
Bluelined Hind
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
<br /></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<hr />
<h3>
Dec 29, 2021 - Bedok Jetty
</h3>
<p>
<table>
<tbody><tr>
<td>
Species 1030
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiKN2TJm8nWPWV_wm1zIexT3GVt6dPPvNE1nOUUWXw27s_hXd_qAMG5WWHH99pEvwL4lwSiHCQnFH5LWfxMaZ8BU95UkwI5xKXsJHIWybbw_F8YIs5UWriH9HJp0FPO-stRC2W_gCjAvUkp661dAu_X8ph6Nv30VM92y8KaHRrPJDbnPY8wqUk8LJ5D=s240" />
<br />
Nuchequula flavaxilla
<br />
Yellowspotted Ponyfish
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1031
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhBAIx3YGmr91m-VTFAjzDIy9qfb6cqTEwPDRRLUo9TuGekpLogyOjD2xxTre6BTThS7DXM0FMArzAlOZii8NbnQ5Xnn7iThZfHxHNG2ElXAFsYh0cP_2B1mhLAHjijK_yW190WhQlCQ41dijGbyVRN2NTaxHI0u2g1XF2hAYe4lFTv_qoj_8VD1sZQ=s240"/>
<br />
Acreichthys tomentosus
<br />
Bristle-Tail File-Fish
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1032
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQuvqHLBDyTLVPAZhMaETfpnK3OII47JvcNn9MwfIiSZ5VKvgNXN9-pd6LSlzpFOnN1-Fc6PUOciooZFpQeTpkqR3OkqJW2R-HCpXj55wJZdpWXhlhF2q1tpf-glGfBGLlLKg00-IcO7pJMCTDu0E7rXt6HgBTTlvNHo3AfpJYQxgZzLcwS2hthc6X=s240" />
<br />
Ostorhinchus cavitensis
<br />
Whiteline Cardinalfish
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Species 1033
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi5uwGhd-biyYtEGK9Xp-IZEyB9nlX0lOabICcO2HvA7VDlPqrVfdIwthbtHOY5JRVFQ6PgqweORio77IdK8uvaIhBwBMyS2YIYdeWKFu505YsIBDm94qHxlXcLc22nK8VQVQZgGGKSdjDDdmHts3CClFrloNBID_gLg_l6sKeA4bNrK4_E4UvNQIAZ=s240" />
<br />
Epinephelus bleekeri
<br />
Duskytail Grouper
<p>
</p></td>
<td>
Species 1034
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg8itflyUj6MFVXXo9J4LYkyPITRRlFR7gQ28F8g1rHJqArtYL9bneeH31dJSpNiSeZXF4lcYoLpho-6_LOVTeIB3pZ_F4U8aMt2duJkfUt76j-n9YESrsLPw7jJIzSLw6hPcNyBjysvj0ejBNhkfZ46jT0a_UFr39L1OegU4NoTnvpFsh2Kg9ABVeM=s240" />
<br />
Amblyeleotris gymnocephala
<br />
Masked Shrimpgoby
<p>
</p></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p>
<table>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5KUcggNiLrwwNuELHvSOgGtSC-jAuhZS-aesULxA4xy2GeRUorjwfL2J-dJR5RR8oWa6sw9md4EebuGMTRmzUPd5o-UpxP4vw9XYJeNqrvoFtS562E3xY5A4bIipcgsdXT6n-gtgDW_0GdI0Bz1FlDI8f7vHBmWsK3EpiF5Ctr8wBT9s872OP84cB=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5KUcggNiLrwwNuELHvSOgGtSC-jAuhZS-aesULxA4xy2GeRUorjwfL2J-dJR5RR8oWa6sw9md4EebuGMTRmzUPd5o-UpxP4vw9XYJeNqrvoFtS562E3xY5A4bIipcgsdXT6n-gtgDW_0GdI0Bz1FlDI8f7vHBmWsK3EpiF5Ctr8wBT9s872OP84cB=s370"/></a>
</td>
<td>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjwkjrcZYCHtoeOEs5rtKCAq5iXyjAKx9jHSty7Ye5hGvWEI_VasMkknFafPkdkFOvMSUkNglPie-D09qnNlgTP-r_WyYaCGS_HsJv24KRFI4AUXcWUj6LOJO1AQgsL8892ckwnhwtxUTKvp8tk0kDqjmQaEbQo8CARDNKLhbPjHmUiY_IzEHmjP9Lg=s2000"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjwkjrcZYCHtoeOEs5rtKCAq5iXyjAKx9jHSty7Ye5hGvWEI_VasMkknFafPkdkFOvMSUkNglPie-D09qnNlgTP-r_WyYaCGS_HsJv24KRFI4AUXcWUj6LOJO1AQgsL8892ckwnhwtxUTKvp8tk0kDqjmQaEbQo8CARDNKLhbPjHmUiY_IzEHmjP9Lg=s370"/></a>
</td>
</tr>
</table>MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-88169914877724675622019-12-26T00:00:00.000-05:002020-01-17T21:21:26.278-05:00Australia 2019This is just a quick summary of lifer I caught in Australia over the Christmas holiday in 2019. If I have time, I'll try to write a short trip blog and add other scenery and food photos.
<p>
Species #887 - Kelpfish (Chironemus marmoratus)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lbfgapB-GxA/XiJakr16T7I/AAAAAAAAMPE/YqY-jfHZRTci5a9UGq5p-_-HokFO7UwaACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_2826_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
Species #888 - Goldlined Seabream (Rhabdosargus sarba)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sy4_Vn7_cvY/XiJb7RJZ_gI/AAAAAAAAMPQ/d6WaOKDSpUwbBebYMtUyvuNdmRXvdybcwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_2832_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
Species #889 - Murray Cod (Maccullochella peelii)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ch5BKLFyh5g/XiJb72srPnI/AAAAAAAAMPY/oaVptJh3AfkRRM_HSjUOOQSMv4Xt7Q8XACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_2859_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mmhRex44QSI/XiJpNL3O53I/AAAAAAAAMRk/0AzGED0hpfI9CfBQbaXpM4cd6bLPS1y8QCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_2851_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
Species #890 - Bengal Sergeant (Abudefduf bengalensis)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W8XXI1K7Nx8/XiJb7lxFD9I/AAAAAAAAMPU/PsXxWj3VT0EdqKn5h3dOK_30Alud3S2kACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_2906_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
Species #891 - Silver Seabream (Pagrus auratus)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h6HJX_WXFgQ/XiJb8h2KaMI/AAAAAAAAMPc/lob2LXtO6b4TYyfAO1wW4oDvskfQNNy7ACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_2912_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
Species #892 - Crimsonspotted Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia duboulayi)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZG6tY8J4Qp4/XiJnNpr5IyI/AAAAAAAAMRQ/2oStLJYZmOAVcZsF3K8qQhuls9D3XDS9gCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_2919_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
Species #893 - Freshwater Catfish (Tandanus tandanus)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fs66k1Bb6hY/XiJp65yOJII/AAAAAAAAMR8/xkf1jv3U2_0zIMIjn1Yv2R_wC0YHk1OywCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_2929_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--PdTs-qrC70/XiJpYKvvYLI/AAAAAAAAMRo/n2CXnklDIgovKY1sjwo_9-jlqL_B2-CDQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_2922_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
Species #894 - Mottled Spinefoot (Siganus fuscescens)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lVhqpDdZ3Y0/XiJb-L-O43I/AAAAAAAAMPk/mfjbT7SHPwgSaACtRdlejzjyu75OITLmQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_2941_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
Species #895 - Stripey (Microcanthus strigatus)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LoaW0ckrv28/XiJb-4OGNOI/AAAAAAAAMPo/dV9Qym8PXIMJP_2T-fjcsuVcypL9kySLQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_2946_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
Species #896 - Gunther's Wrasse (Pseudolabrus guentheri)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FCGSHwkUY8E/XiJb_aMAQKI/AAAAAAAAMPs/qvz2_CyGG3oDuPDycu2J-h8roW9iaXvAQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_2950_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
Species #897 - Black-Flag Tripodfish (Tripodichthys angustifrons)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rUtI76FdF5w/XiJcAFLTFII/AAAAAAAAMPw/xW3Wwx6Sf8wFpGCmhinXL2Xvz39lJGZCACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_2960_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
Species #898 - Fan-Bellied Leatherjacket (Monacanthus chinensis)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IeJICAn168k/XiJcAygic7I/AAAAAAAAMP0/CAt6hdDtkBEt840PkncmAbA_oUfGX3GPQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_2968_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
Species #899 - Paradise Whiptail (Pentapodus paradiseus)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LAB3h5x_rcI/XiJcBkM0KgI/AAAAAAAAMP4/PSDqDO_LOesdbC-UZsbk6_RE3v2xLhJSQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_2970_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
Species #900 - Speckled Longfin Eel (Anguilla reinhardtii)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XqA3WfPYFnw/XiJoBV-L9fI/AAAAAAAAMRY/mJ3Iy8LI5YQ-qhCAG0v2mGjUOsyUNztqACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_3394_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
Species #901 - Yellowfin Bream (Acanthopagrus australis)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gFPV2ke3Cu0/XiJcC_r-NlI/AAAAAAAAMP8/VHrdF33fsakhRDstqRHvJChjJOBgTlPDgCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_3464_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
Species #902 - Girdled Scalyfin (Parma unifasciata)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dATIKCjDnWs/XiJcDwlvmlI/AAAAAAAAMQA/kcKyy6CWDNYMGkXM6j978oFRgWuXSQ4CQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_3498_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
Species #903 - Patrician Wrasse (Pictilabrus laticlavius)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SSnOLMwFYEM/XiJcE5_YJGI/AAAAAAAAMQE/tI1hZf03vesezj2I2ii1JSlkL3gHdFrcACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_3682_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
Species #904 - Sergeant Baker (Latropiscis purpurissatus)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5QlGwl91dhw/XiJcF-xbl-I/AAAAAAAAMQI/-6facEEGTmcmc6G5Tryl_GhKNVaHj3S3wCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_3709_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1201" />
<p>
Species #905 - Blue Mackerel (Scomber australasicus)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W-iWIUPT-xA/XiJcG_XyAcI/AAAAAAAAMQM/mwmsO3Q7nfsUtAGfDoiYLFWcz5VgS-pUgCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_3712_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
Species #906 - Yellowtail Horse Mackerel (Trachurus novaezelandiae)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f7yVdSzWRVE/XiJcIGkZp2I/AAAAAAAAMQQ/qDmT1JBCtF49-_hRTP7xAEl9mwv-j4rGQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_3724_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
Species #907 - Silver sweep (Scorpis lineolata)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d8PIJcfMjIU/XiJcJGT8FhI/AAAAAAAAMQU/wRh0eERN5FknIYK0neDDfcbOvPZXGtBTwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_3727_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1201" />
<p>
Species #908 - Maori Wrasse (Ophthalmolepis lineolata)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UluvG8g2wCU/XiJcKQeH7wI/AAAAAAAAMQY/p8lzTAQvWjYZ5S_putEOlRT_ZULPTPiqgCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_3737_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
Species #909 - Common Stingaree (Trygonoptera testacea)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3-b7hnz0Gh0/XiJcLhitDBI/AAAAAAAAMQc/icqDbqApM8Eh3Zw7RfWJMVdIxFK5QsfogCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_3758_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
Species #910 - Australian Salmon (Arripis trutta) *Confirmed by gill raker count (34)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z1iNYJ1f_MI/XiJcMnrtBiI/AAAAAAAAMQg/6LrMlJkADvkPq0adRrFY7oyo_s6JgWRsQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_3772_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kBQAkCHQfrI/XiJpjHF_YTI/AAAAAAAAMRw/sql3eZY956s1tgOVRbPI2cWjieRH-n-4wCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_3761_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1201" />
<p>
Species #911 - Australian Mado (Atypichthys strigatus)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4aFICsg-uaQ/XiJcNqJj4fI/AAAAAAAAMQk/MGXd-zD6WvIxoboRrUCz7l0wWBzpVZ-nQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_3875_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
Species #912 - Horned Blenny (Parablennius intermedius)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-REZsutIRsJ4/XiJcOXBh6DI/AAAAAAAAMQo/V9dRvM7Q1pIo7hCtwiqTA4BEb0wxB0s5ACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_3887_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>
Species #913 - Parore (Girella tricuspidata)
<p>
<img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9dy4nnbMtoA/XiJcPufuKQI/AAAAAAAAMQs/srgj088JPvEoT7GRtPDRYrzWp0avZxOiwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_3898_post.jpg" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" />
<p>MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-46358614343580027182019-08-23T00:50:00.002-04:002019-08-23T00:51:00.598-04:00Hawaii 2019Aug 12, 2019
<p>
He'eia Pier
<p>
Scalloped Hammerhead (Sphyrna lewini) - Species #882
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zq2Bp4l_TRU/XV9u5Pk03vI/AAAAAAAAMJc/xUcwL-BpSHgAktWegtyRlAodljuOT4i0wCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2547_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zq2Bp4l_TRU/XV9u5Pk03vI/AAAAAAAAMJc/xUcwL-BpSHgAktWegtyRlAodljuOT4i0wCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2547_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
<hr>
<p>
Aug 13, 2019
<p>
Makai Pier
<p>
Acute Halfbeack (Hyporhamphus pacificus) - Species #883
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8NjO5-MhqVQ/XV9vPpOKNvI/AAAAAAAAMJk/meF6cK7SUEUpkq2CXXy3xV0Qt9Ve0fj5QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2559_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8NjO5-MhqVQ/XV9vPpOKNvI/AAAAAAAAMJk/meF6cK7SUEUpkq2CXXy3xV0Qt9Ve0fj5QCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2559_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
<hr>
<p>
Aug 15, 2019
<p>
Waimea
<p>
Snakefish (Trachinocephalus myops) - Species #884
<P>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9cjBL-5DeYI/XV9vqQp2qFI/AAAAAAAAMJs/cdI_ldNMcG4UjfXwE3PQSpEdfOy29av0ACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2581_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9cjBL-5DeYI/XV9vqQp2qFI/AAAAAAAAMJs/cdI_ldNMcG4UjfXwE3PQSpEdfOy29av0ACLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2581_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
<hr>
<p>
Aug 17, 2019
<p>
A freshwater stream on the Windward side
<p>
O'opu Nakea (Awaous stamineus) - Species #885
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JPEpc6zvx3U/XV9v5XPMTaI/AAAAAAAAMJw/Ku1qNGUM4oYtlnzKPLaFD1EyYSl9fAcSQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2630_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JPEpc6zvx3U/XV9v5XPMTaI/AAAAAAAAMJw/Ku1qNGUM4oYtlnzKPLaFD1EyYSl9fAcSQCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2630_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
<hr>
<p>
Aug 18, 2019
<p>
He'eia Pier
<p>
Starry Goby (Asterropteryx semipunctata) - Species #886
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZemyXUrLFLE/XV9wjND7M_I/AAAAAAAAMKA/SeHc5kbrE-osJ9KH_IJop10ybsU87uM8ACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2675_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZemyXUrLFLE/XV9wjND7M_I/AAAAAAAAMKA/SeHc5kbrE-osJ9KH_IJop10ybsU87uM8ACLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2675_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-49261618196047774932019-08-23T00:10:00.000-04:002019-08-23T00:10:00.509-04:00California 2019Aug 2, 2019
<p>
Malibu Pier
<p>
<p>
Californian Salema (Haemulon californiensis) - Species #858
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xLbYq26luVI/XV9ZTZ9ZHVI/AAAAAAAAME4/gFwUOMn1lRQlB7BlMx4LODIcl8302PeNQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1918_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xLbYq26luVI/XV9ZTZ9ZHVI/AAAAAAAAME4/gFwUOMn1lRQlB7BlMx4LODIcl8302PeNQCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_1918_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
<hr>
<p>
Aug 3, 2019
<p>
Santa Rosa Island
<p>
Ocean Whitefish (Caulolatilus princeps) - Species #859
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1O6Z589Ff5g/XV9ZYzgLCMI/AAAAAAAAME8/buPDNgOi1bM315DdN4ayfHNxrTQu1IuDQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1945_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1O6Z589Ff5g/XV9ZYzgLCMI/AAAAAAAAME8/buPDNgOi1bM315DdN4ayfHNxrTQu1IuDQCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_1945_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Starry Rockfish (Sebastes constellatus) - Species #860
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9s0aZsHNgME/XV9ZdbVrzII/AAAAAAAAMFI/C2eR18ZXVN45R4H47O6rLQKV2PwQ5vgSgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1976_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9s0aZsHNgME/XV9ZdbVrzII/AAAAAAAAMFI/C2eR18ZXVN45R4H47O6rLQKV2PwQ5vgSgCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_1976_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Squarespot Rockfish (Sebastes hopkinsi) - Species #861
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KYh_nq-00Jo/XV9Z-HP6kVI/AAAAAAAAMF0/zn6amXdqnW8Yqh-0SMHGpEPaUDMce9PkACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1983_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KYh_nq-00Jo/XV9Z-HP6kVI/AAAAAAAAMF0/zn6amXdqnW8Yqh-0SMHGpEPaUDMce9PkACLcBGAs/s400/IMG_1983_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Cowcod (Sebastes levis) - Species #862
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uy0FJMMIX9c/XV9bfPh8KLI/AAAAAAAAMGA/yDd2HyMqbxUTFqNm7f-24cnjAHMu3_LdACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1988_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uy0FJMMIX9c/XV9bfPh8KLI/AAAAAAAAMGA/yDd2HyMqbxUTFqNm7f-24cnjAHMu3_LdACLcBGAs/s400/IMG_1988_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Bocaccio (Sebastes paucispinis) - Species #863
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7phqGznyivU/XV9b4r-jDqI/AAAAAAAAMGI/G1O-qn97qpcxFiIUmoowktAn9OnO5gLkACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1992_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7phqGznyivU/XV9b4r-jDqI/AAAAAAAAMGI/G1O-qn97qpcxFiIUmoowktAn9OnO5gLkACLcBGAs/s400/IMG_1992_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Widow Rockfish (Sebastes entomelas) - Species #864
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gnGB0T5cgTY/XV9b-G2Gj0I/AAAAAAAAMGM/bKs8214QxOcKFb-u6d9TvStIV1wQ03ZlACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2019_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gnGB0T5cgTY/XV9b-G2Gj0I/AAAAAAAAMGM/bKs8214QxOcKFb-u6d9TvStIV1wQ03ZlACLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2019_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
<hr>
Aug 4, 2019
<p>
Pigeon Point
<p>
Kelpfish species (either Spotted or Striped...still unsure) - Species #865
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BaykR02542A/XV9cpGsUbcI/AAAAAAAAMGc/CfD67tdJxNg314z83ZIExqa92c2iY0BigCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2062_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BaykR02542A/XV9cpGsUbcI/AAAAAAAAMGc/CfD67tdJxNg314z83ZIExqa92c2iY0BigCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2062_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Striped Seaperch (Embiotoca lateralis) - Species #866
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LEDdjj6Ncao/XV9dO7jPtCI/AAAAAAAAMGk/drXg6OKrO6IXL0ArXOnqXr9fXbVdhH-9ACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2071_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LEDdjj6Ncao/XV9dO7jPtCI/AAAAAAAAMGk/drXg6OKrO6IXL0ArXOnqXr9fXbVdhH-9ACLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2071_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
A freshwater creek near San Jose
<p>
California Roach (Hesperoleucus symmetricus) - Species #867
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oJXJUwN7ozE/XV9dcwqxnBI/AAAAAAAAMGo/W4MzhCpUaSwFmF3VPfJfB4nIBaGf6lftQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2087_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oJXJUwN7ozE/XV9dcwqxnBI/AAAAAAAAMGo/W4MzhCpUaSwFmF3VPfJfB4nIBaGf6lftQCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2087_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1201" /></a>
<p>
<hr>
<p>
Aug 5, 2019
<p>
Montezuma Slough
<p>
Splittail (Pogonichthys macrolepidotus) - Species #868
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-75bPPwHamLY/XV9eNGrT0zI/AAAAAAAAMG0/ecuOuykyZl8lzDAehs76QTgPKPcbn9ZFgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2097_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-75bPPwHamLY/XV9eNGrT0zI/AAAAAAAAMG0/ecuOuykyZl8lzDAehs76QTgPKPcbn9ZFgCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2097_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Yellowfin Goby (Acanthogobius flavimanus) - Species #869
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gE83N0poPrU/XV9furqW0nI/AAAAAAAAMHA/4JOeSO_zhdE-RDJnZsUXs7tSpZm7yi_0QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2101_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gE83N0poPrU/XV9furqW0nI/AAAAAAAAMHA/4JOeSO_zhdE-RDJnZsUXs7tSpZm7yi_0QCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2101_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Elephant Rock Pier
<p>
Black Seaperch (Hypoplectrodes nigroruber) - Species #870
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wSBMOjZbmo4/XV9f40uxFsI/AAAAAAAAMHE/SFtsyhCywH8S9YdCb--3gD7Zbo1S3PkNACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2115_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wSBMOjZbmo4/XV9f40uxFsI/AAAAAAAAMHE/SFtsyhCywH8S9YdCb--3gD7Zbo1S3PkNACLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2115_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
<hr>
<p>
Aug 6, 2019
<p>
Feather River
<p>
Sacramento Pikeminnow (Ptychocheilus grandis) - Species #871
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bb1PR5bdYPo/XV9ixoCylBI/AAAAAAAAMHU/bl4fEpKNgoE5Rs8igrgFnZylsmdMVTaNgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2125_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bb1PR5bdYPo/XV9ixoCylBI/AAAAAAAAMHU/bl4fEpKNgoE5Rs8igrgFnZylsmdMVTaNgCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2125_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Truckee River, NV
<p>
Lahontan Redside (Richardsonius egregius) - Species #872
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WyycQWHCdNk/XV9jHEcQZcI/AAAAAAAAMHc/t-mKhzPL3uYDvOsG_w5CFLHfO-BkFRSwQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2141_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WyycQWHCdNk/XV9jHEcQZcI/AAAAAAAAMHc/t-mKhzPL3uYDvOsG_w5CFLHfO-BkFRSwQCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2141_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Pyramid Lake, NV
<p>
Tui Chub (Siphateles bicolor) - Species #873
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1eTomGjTdsw/XV9jqYKLQWI/AAAAAAAAMHo/2N9tZ27-pGE11__G-pTN7BiekfkaytfVQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2167_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1eTomGjTdsw/XV9jqYKLQWI/AAAAAAAAMHo/2N9tZ27-pGE11__G-pTN7BiekfkaytfVQCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2167_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
<hr>
<p>
Aug 7, 2019
<p>
Owens River
<p>
Owens Sucker (Catostomus fumeiventris) - Species #874
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sjxDDUftNHk/XV9kHzf3MqI/AAAAAAAAMHw/EjJpd_Boju4jmIxlQBonE0hPApDw0dvVwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2242_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sjxDDUftNHk/XV9kHzf3MqI/AAAAAAAAMHw/EjJpd_Boju4jmIxlQBonE0hPApDw0dvVwCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2242_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
<hr>
<p>
Aug 8, 2019
<p>
Inyo National Forest
<p>
Golden Trout (Oncorhynchus aguabonita) - Species #875
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6iskp_ybFoM/XV9kjGyI4PI/AAAAAAAAMH8/qL9ZF3zVs6wFEBUbVSkTp779VWEGbFuzwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2333_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6iskp_ybFoM/XV9kjGyI4PI/AAAAAAAAMH8/qL9ZF3zVs6wFEBUbVSkTp779VWEGbFuzwCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2333_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Kern River
<p>
Hardhead (Mylopharodon conocephalus) - Species #876
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u9sUUbb3JRg/XV9lBpy9z1I/AAAAAAAAMIE/7owdTBd4en42Xa2gLAKYXKh-Hbdnib6OQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2405_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u9sUUbb3JRg/XV9lBpy9z1I/AAAAAAAAMIE/7owdTBd4en42Xa2gLAKYXKh-Hbdnib6OQCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2405_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Sacramento Sucker (Catostomus occidentalis) - Species #877
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pUen8CqSiEU/XV9lUtMroUI/AAAAAAAAMIM/gy6YiB8imCcDea16svEWE5wWMKG_iUNWACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2417_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pUen8CqSiEU/XV9lUtMroUI/AAAAAAAAMIM/gy6YiB8imCcDea16svEWE5wWMKG_iUNWACLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2417_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
<hr>
<p>
Aug 9, 2019
<p>
Coronado Islands
<p>
Pacific Bonito (Sarda lineolata) - Species #878
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vOP2VKVWcNs/XV9lfpJs9vI/AAAAAAAAMIQ/AVgAnKf2bN8xMa_KsRR_QQAXPm5ECPK6gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2459_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vOP2VKVWcNs/XV9lfpJs9vI/AAAAAAAAMIQ/AVgAnKf2bN8xMa_KsRR_QQAXPm5ECPK6gCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2459_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
San Dieguito Lagoon
<p>
Diamond Turbot (Hypsopsetta guttulata) - Species #879
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aLAs6s5a9NY/XV9mP_6ytFI/AAAAAAAAMIg/b4tC7fpT_BEOge5FIempxRCGj9SsIAehwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2474_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aLAs6s5a9NY/XV9mP_6ytFI/AAAAAAAAMIg/b4tC7fpT_BEOge5FIempxRCGj9SsIAehwCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2474_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
<hr>
<p>
Mission Bay
<p>
Longjaw Mudsucker (Gillichthys mirabilis) - Species #880
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ff5eX3T2aOE/XV9mr88WJPI/AAAAAAAAMIo/BNSjYWFHcy4Pb7JlvDxB_tSrF1OX8nJ_QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2489_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ff5eX3T2aOE/XV9mr88WJPI/AAAAAAAAMIo/BNSjYWFHcy4Pb7JlvDxB_tSrF1OX8nJ_QCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2489_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
California Killifish (Fundulus parvipinnis) - Species #881
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1NBu2i3pvSU/XV9msGz0YxI/AAAAAAAAMIs/aWA8zOhukj8VOQHtXcggbJU-msrUv8EsQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2528_post.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1NBu2i3pvSU/XV9msGz0YxI/AAAAAAAAMIs/aWA8zOhukj8VOQHtXcggbJU-msrUv8EsQCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2528_post.JPG" width="400" height="300" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-77229276598594973182017-10-20T12:00:00.000-04:002017-11-22T22:11:07.019-05:002017 Mazatlan (Day 6)This was our last day in Mazatlan. We were not going out without a bang. With the current still heavy and our big fish targets basically impossible to catch, evident by two wrecks that had fish marked but nary a sniff, we decided to fish Sealion Rock and the galleon wreck for more species potential.
<p>
It was a great decision as there were plenty of life around Sealion Rock. On arrival we saw a school of Green Jack puddling on bait and that continued the entire time we were at the rock. I threw the Gomame jig into the school but none wanted to hit the large jig. Instead, a Snapper came up the the surface and hammered the lure. I had the fish to the boat, but in the process of grabbing the leader, the fish shook off. It was most likely a Pacific Dog Snapper.
<p>
We started dropping chunks of shrimp into the deep outer wall of the rock. A few drops later, something beautiful came up the line.
<p>
Species #772 - Mexican Hogfish (Bodianus diplotaenia)
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4rxs7JbNiXA/We_WF4oCYoI/AAAAAAAAKyY/Kowj_4vnnD0v2LKOLa2w76TLW6y5-MCwgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3953_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4rxs7JbNiXA/We_WF4oCYoI/AAAAAAAAKyY/Kowj_4vnnD0v2LKOLa2w76TLW6y5-MCwgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3953_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Apparently, these were more common in Cabo area but rare in Mazatlan. Captain C had only seen a few caught in years of fishing the area.
<p>
We adjusted the boat position again and found something even more rare.
<p>
Species #773 - Spotted Head Sargo (Genyatremus dovii)
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8nXnB396SfA/We_WNlbOTFI/AAAAAAAAKyc/4kSSlEmnfEMDh56E_bGZv5LsiBHB4ApEgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3969_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8nXnB396SfA/We_WNlbOTFI/AAAAAAAAKyc/4kSSlEmnfEMDh56E_bGZv5LsiBHB4ApEgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3969_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Rare as they may be, perhaps the current was just right or we were anchored directly over the right structure, I would catch 2 more that day, George would catch 2 and Josh would catch 1. We all caught our lifer Spotted Head Sargo that day. And it was a huge accomplishment. In the past, it would be spectacular to even catch one a trip.
<p>
We decided to move to the galleon after a while. The fishing was much slower at the galleon. George was once again trying hard to find a Mottled Soapfish, and Josh was just simply happy to find more lifers, but the Vacuocua Croaker or the Mexican Lookdown was what he'd like to catch. Finally, Josh caught his Vacuocua Croaker and we all celebrated. And I got lucky with two Mexican Lookdown that kept Josh yearning for more.
<p>
Species #774 - Mexican Lookdown (Selene brevoortii)
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rXUTYBuN_bw/We_WWfASSpI/AAAAAAAAKyg/sPaOGVP3ySUOD3ZHkDD1GXS-5dc4z0NcwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4003_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rXUTYBuN_bw/We_WWfASSpI/AAAAAAAAKyg/sPaOGVP3ySUOD3ZHkDD1GXS-5dc4z0NcwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4003_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Our species party was promptly ruined by Finescale Triggerfish. Either a school moved in or they suddenly started to bite. While they are hard fighter and willing biters, we were being intercepted on our species effort. Being that it was almost 1pm and too late to move to another spot, we decided to call it a day.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wNJW4r0SL1g/We_WjI4DcdI/AAAAAAAAKys/0B60My95PG4jsv5GtZXJipL2DeeU8rGGwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3982_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wNJW4r0SL1g/We_WjI4DcdI/AAAAAAAAKys/0B60My95PG4jsv5GtZXJipL2DeeU8rGGwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3982_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
After the panga fishing, George wanted to go back to the rocky point to catch a Bumphead Damselfish. He might have caught one yesterday but failed to take any photos. I decided to join him for a chance to find a Giant Hawkfish casting among the rocks, or maybe a Longfin Silverside that Josh caught yesterday. Josh decided that his 35 lifers on this trip were quite satisfying so he went to the aquarium and a walk around town instead.
<p>
When we arrived at the point, George had trouble catching the Bumphead Damselfish because he was using too small a splitshot and the bait simply wasn't getting deep enough to the right targets. If the bait was too high, it was just intercepted by juvenile Panamic Sergeant Major and Mexican Night Sergeant. When George finally put on a larger splitshot and plunk his bait deeper, he caught his Bumphead Damselfish.
<p>
George then tied on a tanago hook and poked around the tidepool for a Longfin Silverside. It took more time for him to tie on the hook, and put on bait, than to catch one. In fact, he needed my eyes to put on the tiniest bit of bait on the tanago hook. After he caught one, I borrowed his tanago rod to catch my own as well.
<p>
Species #775 - Longfin Silverside (Atherinella eriarcha)
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lBq_7BFj8ZA/We_WnvWAojI/AAAAAAAAKyw/-pPcTAJLi0gMRGlkHAhn33n4JLR5kRczQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4042_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lBq_7BFj8ZA/We_WnvWAojI/AAAAAAAAKyw/-pPcTAJLi0gMRGlkHAhn33n4JLR5kRczQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4042_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
With our targets met, we returned to the hotel. If there was a Giant Hawkfish in the area, I simply couldn't find it. It will remain as yet another new nemesis of mine.
<p>
It took more time to get to the rocky point and back than the time we spent at the tidepool. We arrived at the hotel just a minute after Josh stepped in. Instead of the pool, we spent some time to pack before dinner. It was another great dinner at Mr. Lionso Playa Bruja. I skipped the tortilla soup to save space for an entire order of coconut shrimp which I shared half with Josh in exchange for his tequila shrimp. I'm going to miss the food...probably more than the fishing!
<p>
And so our Mazatlan adventures came to an end. I had been quite nonchalant about species fishing since January. But this trip - with a knowledgeable and accommodating captain, great food, fantastic company and some really cool fish, my wanderlust and thirst for new species might just have been rekindled a bit.MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-33675762717852803302017-10-19T12:00:00.000-04:002017-10-24T20:08:30.402-04:002017 Mazatlan (Day 5)We're on our second last day of panga fishing. We figure we would focus on the wrecks to find White Snook, Orangemouth Weakfish and Blackblotch Pompano. We headed north a long ways to some deeper water wrecks that Captain C knew well. But with a drop in the swells and a switch of the current, the deeper current was moving much too fast to fish properly.
<p>
At the first wreck, we caught a few Spotted Rose Snapper that were suspended over the wreck. However, if there were larger fish, they were not biting. Captain C and I did managed to land 3 Mexican Barracuda. It would have been a lifer for Josh, and in fact his hook and bait was likely cut off by one. But the school moved on quickly and we didn't see another one landed. We decided to move on after a while.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SLXhVVH49Go/We_Uyp2CtQI/AAAAAAAAKxs/Z-2mh8piMrkkT0leimmzoigyihwUFl-RACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3865_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SLXhVVH49Go/We_Uyp2CtQI/AAAAAAAAKxs/Z-2mh8piMrkkT0leimmzoigyihwUFl-RACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3865_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
At the second wreck, there were fish on the graph but again, these fish would not bite. And so it went for the rest of the day...wrecks and reefs with fish showing on the bottom that simply would not bite.
<p>
We were on a more comfortable boat with some seat cushions up front...and Josh and I ended up doing a lot of this between moves...such is the life on a slow day of fishing...
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hyyJ4UMF250/We_UYDrh8EI/AAAAAAAAKxg/wJCQHCrVZlwahETVBCM8vNcOMGkHqKjDQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3867_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hyyJ4UMF250/We_UYDrh8EI/AAAAAAAAKxg/wJCQHCrVZlwahETVBCM8vNcOMGkHqKjDQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3867_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bnNL0nQXTew/We_UcBGnOmI/AAAAAAAAKxk/BqzdPvRhb5AxC6gcmqp142K2ixxMaAVjACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3868_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bnNL0nQXTew/We_UcBGnOmI/AAAAAAAAKxk/BqzdPvRhb5AxC6gcmqp142K2ixxMaAVjACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3868_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Everyone actually went liferless after a whole 6h of panga fishing. Captain C tried hard and I think he was very hard on himself for not getting us into feeding fish. We could tell because he didn't get his usual celebratory Modelo cervaza when he returned to the marina.
<p>
As a group, we discussed the possibility of fishing the shore spots in the afternoon during low tide. Since we were liferless, everyone was game to fish the rocky point. On the way to the point, we drove along the Malecon. It was evident that the tide is low and the swells has calmed down significantly. It might just work out at the tidepool.
<p>
While the outer rocks were still pounded a bit, the inner areas were perfectly fishable. The tidepool looked really good.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-scmJGuMEU88/We_VisQ3e8I/AAAAAAAAKyI/HH3r7AUgfyYjp1bjotxlvJu8yUNKPu5yACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3927_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-scmJGuMEU88/We_VisQ3e8I/AAAAAAAAKyI/HH3r7AUgfyYjp1bjotxlvJu8yUNKPu5yACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3927_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dw6HWHJY_54/We_Vol4By6I/AAAAAAAAKyM/dmxkN1O8SfEG0pwRhQFZGWFMylbVDa0JACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3937_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dw6HWHJY_54/We_Vol4By6I/AAAAAAAAKyM/dmxkN1O8SfEG0pwRhQFZGWFMylbVDa0JACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3937_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
I looked down and could see a number of Damselfish species around the rocks. I also noticed what appeared to be a Butterflyfish coming in and out of the tidepool. But it was a complete surprise that my first hookup was the Butterflyfish! Usually they take a lot more work to catch since other species are quickly to the bait. I must have dropped the bait directly in front of the fish.
<p>
Species #768 - Threebanded Butterflyfish (Chaetodon humeralis)
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-El-HHRGwpHU/We_U68htm1I/AAAAAAAAKxw/BIGj3IYJljs9doweZu4DN7O70ZNYPeWjgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3874_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-El-HHRGwpHU/We_U68htm1I/AAAAAAAAKxw/BIGj3IYJljs9doweZu4DN7O70ZNYPeWjgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3874_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
As great a catch it was, it wasn't the Giant Damselfish that I'm after. That Giant Damselfish had escaped my efforts on the last trip to Mazatlan. Not only did they mostly refused my bait, but the one solid hookup that I had pulled me under the rock and cut the 2lb fluoro I was using. This time, I wasn't taking any chances. I was using 8lb fluoro and #16 hooks. If I hook that buggah, he's not escaping.
<p>
But of course, other fish were jumping on the bait much quicker. I was catching a couple of Banded Wrasse and lots of Mexican Night Sergeant until something else came up. Brown-coloured Damselfish are a pain in the arse to ID. But this guy looked different. It had brilliant blue-violet eyes and a more olive body and fins. There were also those pearly white spots on the scales toward the lower back half of the fish. Josh caught one earlier as well so we took some photos. It is always a good practice to photograph fish that looked slightly different...and this time it paid off because this is a new species!
<p>
Species #769 - Bumphead Damselfish (Microspathodon bairdii)
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2DtTY5Y0dcs/We_VAUrdRgI/AAAAAAAAKx4/SJn_CwzpQ7MPYRcOsieqP2WYbZnrQ7g1gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3880_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2DtTY5Y0dcs/We_VAUrdRgI/AAAAAAAAKx4/SJn_CwzpQ7MPYRcOsieqP2WYbZnrQ7g1gCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3880_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Now...if only these guys can leave me alone...
<p>
I had to plunk the bait deep toward the base of a rock to reach the Giant Damselfish that I saw. They were mostly hidden under their rocky cave and only came out to chase other fishes away. But with a bit more tempting, one finally came out to take a nibble. I missed the initial hit, but with more persistence, I finally hooked it! It is so beautiful. The deepest sapphire blue with snow white edged caudal fin and this juvenile had turquoise blue spots on the back. Perfect as perfect can be.
<p>
Species #770 - Giant Damselfish (Microspathodon dorsalis)
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e8a9TtHnHsE/We_VHYh215I/AAAAAAAAKx8/boa-fgBTuU0oB1VSoGIBistpv5gbt4eQwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3899_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e8a9TtHnHsE/We_VHYh215I/AAAAAAAAKx8/boa-fgBTuU0oB1VSoGIBistpv5gbt4eQwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3899_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Of course, Josh was trying for his Giant Damselfish as well, but keep hooking up Tinsel Squirrelfish. Since I had yet to catch that species, I went over to his tidepool to poach one. But as lifer hunting rule dictates, a previously difficult lifer will become too easy to catch once that cherry had been popped. And on my dip into Josh's tidepool, up came a magnificent adult Giant Damselfish specimen...one that Josh had been trying to catch for the past too many minutes. Sorry Josh...
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y1SAXg6TaAs/We_VM_8EAWI/AAAAAAAAKyA/b7QTeLsjmL0aaqpND9KpaNWlZSiyeeMowCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3901_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y1SAXg6TaAs/We_VM_8EAWI/AAAAAAAAKyA/b7QTeLsjmL0aaqpND9KpaNWlZSiyeeMowCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3901_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
But he took revenge on me by catching Tinsel Squirrelfish one after another. I must have caught another dozen fish of non-lifer kinds before I finally flipped a Tinsel Squirrelfish into the air, which promptly unhooked in the air and flipped into a deep tidepool behind me...forever out of reach. Such is my luck...
<p>
But persistence always pays (if you have enough time to keep trying). Another 10min later, I finally had one in hand...and then another. And the second bugger poked me in the hand with one of its spines. That searing pain felt too good...only because it was a lifer.
<p>
Species #771 - Tinsel Squirrelfish (Sargocentron suborbitale)
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TMQcckF_A7M/We_VYhs9aUI/AAAAAAAAKyE/7v1wTh-3WeUE84gRm1qGXBwBxDDTIm1ZgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3921_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TMQcckF_A7M/We_VYhs9aUI/AAAAAAAAKyE/7v1wTh-3WeUE84gRm1qGXBwBxDDTIm1ZgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3921_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Finally, Josh caught his Giant Damselfish. He poked around the the tanago hook for some micros and found a Longfin Silverside. I had already caught 4 awesome lifers on the day and felt no need to try for more (yeah, you read that right). We were quite content and goofed off a bit.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0cttZIO8Ngo/We_V2IXxexI/AAAAAAAAKyQ/VhHj68kR448jfNR2WRHIr1-YpKzzv2k-wCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3931_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0cttZIO8Ngo/We_V2IXxexI/AAAAAAAAKyQ/VhHj68kR448jfNR2WRHIr1-YpKzzv2k-wCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3931_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
We called it a day, took the air conditioned bus to the hotel and celebrated at the pool. It was followed by a 10oz rib eye steak, salad and baked potatoe at Roy's for only $12 USD. Life can't be this good, can it?
MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-90672575194714065682017-10-18T12:00:00.000-04:002017-10-24T20:01:05.804-04:002017 Mazatlan (Day 4)We decided to take a break from panga fishing and spend the day to fish from some shore spots. It also gave us time to sleep in a little which was much needed.
<p>
We started the morning fishing a small beach area that has a rocky bottom about 30 yards outside. There were a lot of small bites, some of which were Largemouth Blenny.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XMbqKv8OJg4/We_TVmIQ1yI/AAAAAAAAKxI/L9QUn3LMw1EFxY3OEfrjpADjdYXVaHmjwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3787_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XMbqKv8OJg4/We_TVmIQ1yI/AAAAAAAAKxI/L9QUn3LMw1EFxY3OEfrjpADjdYXVaHmjwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3787_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Aside from the Largemouth Blenny, our group also caught Yellow Snapper, Pacific Spotfin Mojarra and a couple of new species for Josh - the Mexican Barred Snapper and a juvenile Jack, which at the time he did not ID as a Bigeye Trevally.
<p>
Finally, one of the small bites turned out to be a Banded Wrasse.
<p>
Species #766 - Banded Wrasse (Halichoeres notospilus)
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VX-pgbVZEuI/We_TfVYCcSI/AAAAAAAAKxM/U33P1BRzaPgOL1KICNHGpZxvnffLcH3tgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3810_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VX-pgbVZEuI/We_TfVYCcSI/AAAAAAAAKxM/U33P1BRzaPgOL1KICNHGpZxvnffLcH3tgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3810_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
It was high tide and our intended rocky point was still pounded by the heavy swells. We tried to fish the foamy white water but it was impossible to fish without our rigs being swept and snagged. We tried for a couple of times and decided to fish in a smaller, sheltered tidepool closer to the beach.
<p>
There were a number of species in the tidepool. Josh caught a lifer Pacific Frillfin Goby quickly.
<p>
I caught a couple of Bigeye Trevally back-to-back so I called Josh over to try catch his lifer. But they were simply not cooperating for him. I was hoping to find a Giant Damselfish by blindly drifting small bits of shrimp under a float. However, I was simply catching one Mexican Night Sergeant after another. Then the Burrito Grunt moved in and it was grunts after grunts. The tide was not dropping fast enough for us to fish the prime spots for the Giant Damselfish. We decided to move and fish at a marina dock instead.
<p>
An interesting taxi ride later (where we took a scenic detour due to road construction), we arrive at the marina dock. The dock is private, but George has connection with the owner of the charter and we had permission to fish it. George saw a Guineafowl Puffer a few days ago so I prepared a high-low rig hoping to find one by soaking chunks of shrimp. At the same time, I was fishing a lighter rod and smaller hooks trying for any smaller species that were around.
<p>
The fishing was much slower than expected. We caught the odd Beaubrummel and a few Chameleon Wrasse. I had a stronger fish bent out my #16 hook and I wondered if it was a Snapper, a Jack or perhaps it was the Guineafowl Puffer. A few more smaller fish later, something else appeared on my line. I was lucky that it was lipped hook just well enough, but not deeep enough, such that the fish did not bite through my light leader and I was able to lift it 10 feet up the pier.
<p>
Species #767 - Longnose Puffer (Sphoeroides lobatus)
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NLllJbwg79E/We_TuMEWoJI/AAAAAAAAKxQ/6S87Me7TimsBNXktMBMDJfDHTXhNM4WKACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3812_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NLllJbwg79E/We_TuMEWoJI/AAAAAAAAKxQ/6S87Me7TimsBNXktMBMDJfDHTXhNM4WKACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3812_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
I had constant bites on the larger high-low rig, but most of them were tiny nibbling bites likely from Wrasses or Damselfishes. Finally, I had a good hit that bent the rod solidly and the fish started to run off with the bait. It felt like a larger fish that gave a couple of decent run. I finally saw the disk shape and was hoping it would be a new Skate or Ray species. But upon further inspection, it turned out to be a Haller's Round Ray (Urobatis halleri).
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fObRacmJYko/We_T6aCqMeI/AAAAAAAAKxY/dJscPrR-BIYj7M0jJ68ZidGyXtI3-3kUwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3833_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fObRacmJYko/We_T6aCqMeI/AAAAAAAAKxY/dJscPrR-BIYj7M0jJ68ZidGyXtI3-3kUwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3833_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
It was getting too hot for George so he left early while Josh and I stayed to fish a little longer. Josh sent out baits to try for a Ray, but the Rays decided to take my baits again and I caught a second. After the tide has switched, the bites completely stopped. It was getting way too hot on the exposed pier at 2pm, so Josh and I called it a session.
<p>
It took a good hour of bus ride to return to the hotel. Luckily, we got on an air conditioned bus so there was plenty of time to cool off.
<p>
Before we left for a swim, I made some ceviche with the Threadfin Jack fillets. A little salt and pepper, some lime juice, a bit of soya sauce, a touch of mango puree, chopped hot green peppers and avocado. After our swim, the ceviche was ready. Delish!
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M6r6wx4s-5I/We_UAK4u5DI/AAAAAAAAKxc/4plv0S23J5ESNW0sWNeAqiVURlhbxWZQwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3846_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M6r6wx4s-5I/We_UAK4u5DI/AAAAAAAAKxc/4plv0S23J5ESNW0sWNeAqiVURlhbxWZQwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3846_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
After the appetizer, we took the remaining fish fillets to La Zarapes. We had Coconut Snook and grilled Pompano as usual, plus the addition of Colorado Snapper Veracruz style. Everything was fantastic as usual...and we have leftover Coconut Snook and grilled Pompano for next day's lunch.
<p>MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-9246625176586037792017-10-17T12:00:00.000-04:002017-10-27T16:32:12.689-04:002017 Mazatlan (Day 3)George talked about a rare Threadfin Jack in Mazatlan that was caught recently. Captain C said he knew a couple of locations to find them so our morning started with a good run out to deeper water to find these Threadfin Jack.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7NFSvgp8X38/We6uSNcYcmI/AAAAAAAAKwQ/1JN7EyfxxRYKdy-dgSu5gP-LPclDgGcPgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3693_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7NFSvgp8X38/We6uSNcYcmI/AAAAAAAAKwQ/1JN7EyfxxRYKdy-dgSu5gP-LPclDgGcPgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3693_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
We put on smaller live shrimp and dropped them down to the wrecks. It didn't take long before I got a bite and it felt like a decent fish. But what came up to the surface was not a Jack. It was a nice Spotted Rose Snapper (Lutjanus guttatus).
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8sf3GaoWPZM/We6uMwgBJbI/AAAAAAAAKwM/z5VLQAO-C8c7_GDypFkx4-lSMKGRo1negCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3699_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8sf3GaoWPZM/We6uMwgBJbI/AAAAAAAAKwM/z5VLQAO-C8c7_GDypFkx4-lSMKGRo1negCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3699_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Fishing was quite slow when we kept our baits on the bottom, hoping for maybe an Orangemouth Weakfish or a White Snook. But once we raised the baits 10 feet over the bottom, the bites came fast and furious. Apparently, a school of Threadfin Jack was suspended over the wreck. Unless you get your bait to their level, they were not going to bite.
<p>
Species #761 - Threadfin Jack ((Carangoides otrynter)
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fm0hWBajaIc/We_jnrYYbYI/AAAAAAAAKzE/wwFFn_VLqOMgKAxAmD9_p8I4qKuxjWvMwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3714_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fm0hWBajaIc/We_jnrYYbYI/AAAAAAAAKzE/wwFFn_VLqOMgKAxAmD9_p8I4qKuxjWvMwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3714_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
These were juveniles with really nice long extensions to their dorsal and anal fins. We started to stop using live shrimp and substituted to chunks of shrimp instead. Fish were still biting very well. So I started to make it more of a challenge. Out came the vertical jig.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s9unxFHgrVo/We_jvpJ1sjI/AAAAAAAAKzI/xblu-7vmoLg2crb3t0CX4cwM2HG3ahPtQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3715_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s9unxFHgrVo/We_jvpJ1sjI/AAAAAAAAKzI/xblu-7vmoLg2crb3t0CX4cwM2HG3ahPtQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3715_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Apparently, they loved the vertical jig just as much. It was simply too much fun dropping this down 70 feet, reeled it up 10 feet and immediately hooked up to another Threadfin Jack.
<p>
After a while, Captain C suggested that we should check out another wreck to see if there were any White Snook. There was another boat already fishing the wreck, but the people on the boat were barely getting any fish. We saw one client catch a bigger Threadfin Jack while we were anchoring. Once we dropped down our baits, the same pandemonium repeated. It was Threadfin Jack one after the other as fast as we could land them.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F8Dmp_rjn4U/We5x29f5s-I/AAAAAAAAKu8/xWsDTqP2Ryw5QgJ3tjhlicsu0DFs0rT_ACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3719_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F8Dmp_rjn4U/We5x29f5s-I/AAAAAAAAKu8/xWsDTqP2Ryw5QgJ3tjhlicsu0DFs0rT_ACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3719_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
But these were also bigger fish that pulled even harder!
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qNH6GEIkIVA/We5x7xL6c0I/AAAAAAAAKvA/jtmP-xSQl4IYv6tBsq-JSUE3oJYOKANnwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3722_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qNH6GEIkIVA/We5x7xL6c0I/AAAAAAAAKvA/jtmP-xSQl4IYv6tBsq-JSUE3oJYOKANnwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3722_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
At one point, one of the clients in the other boat landed a Black Skipjack...a fish that was high on my target list. So I switched to a heavier spinning combo with a 1.7g Gogame jig and started to jig intensely. Unfortunately, it was Threadfin Jack intercepting the jig every drop.
<p>
While the fishing was fun, we were not catching any new species. After about an hour of jigging, we decided to head south to a galleon wreck.
<p>
Once our boat was properly positioned over the wreck, we dropped high-low rig with chunks of shrimp. While the bite was good with many species, many of them were recaptures such as Brassy Grunt, Cortez Grunt, Spotted Rose Snapper, Finescale Triggerfish, Rivulated Mutton Hamlet and Panama Graysby. Finally something different came up to the surface and it was a lifer Grey Grunt (Haemlon scudderii). The Grey Grunt can look similar to the Burrito Grunt with its black spots in the center of the scales. However, the Grey Grunt has a much more pointed head, dusky fins, and a white patch on the caudal peduncle.
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Species #762 - Grey Grunt (Haemlon scudderii)
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PzVoZ2ldP2M/We5yHMT5MJI/AAAAAAAAKvE/FKWF5oZoEjIbfHsNaYbArRbk5B-NHisaQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3738_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PzVoZ2ldP2M/We5yHMT5MJI/AAAAAAAAKvE/FKWF5oZoEjIbfHsNaYbArRbk5B-NHisaQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3738_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
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I sort through all the other species until something else felt different. It fought more like a small grouper but a bit more determined. I was surprised and completely excited to see a Mottled Soapfish on the end of the line! George has been trying for this species at this location for a while. They are rarely caught. I'm happy to have found one.
<p>
Species #763 - Mottled Soapfish (Rypticus bicolor)
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lw7SIgHBOUI/We5yLwsDvxI/AAAAAAAAKvI/Xt-IKkebZpY737L8JWA2dPWdB_e5qJtbQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3752_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lw7SIgHBOUI/We5yLwsDvxI/AAAAAAAAKvI/Xt-IKkebZpY737L8JWA2dPWdB_e5qJtbQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3752_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Somewhere alone the way, George caught a Pacific Lookdown to equalize my Mottled Soapfish. But I fought back with a Gungo Highhat which was an even rarer catch!
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Species #764 - Gungo Highhat (Pareques viola)
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_K3nLoU-O3E/We5yQIi-_gI/AAAAAAAAKvM/54McA4DDCrYpSCa9xEfEGUPn57gjnKQNACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3758_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_K3nLoU-O3E/We5yQIi-_gI/AAAAAAAAKvM/54McA4DDCrYpSCa9xEfEGUPn57gjnKQNACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3758_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
But Josh had to spoil my fun with a Jewel Moray on his line. That eel species simply doesn't like me! I kept catching some Silvergrey Grunt (Anisotremus caesius)...at least I could get better photos of this species...
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zuLFur6kXL4/We5yUlj24LI/AAAAAAAAKvQ/gSoOGCVGOhIoI3ZN2jPAEraZYoizXDFaACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3767_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zuLFur6kXL4/We5yUlj24LI/AAAAAAAAKvQ/gSoOGCVGOhIoI3ZN2jPAEraZYoizXDFaACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3767_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Then George caught a really cool little croaker species. I tried and tried and finally toward the end of the morning I found one too. It was the Vacuocua Croaker. They may be small, but they are so visually appealing!
<p>
Species #765 - Vacuocua Croaker (Corvula macrops)
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--r2y7J9t860/We5yZwrDxNI/AAAAAAAAKvU/AFf8OuyuTo8RNfh84HwFx45jXusMbPrCACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3777_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--r2y7J9t860/We5yZwrDxNI/AAAAAAAAKvU/AFf8OuyuTo8RNfh84HwFx45jXusMbPrCACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3777_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
George caught a Pacific Moonfish to end the session. It was getting to 1pm and we ran out of time. Although we catch a lot of small fish to barely give Captain C a good catch for his boat, the species we caught today were really special.
<p>
We returned to the hotel for more pool time. Before jumping into the pool, I made ceviche based on Captain C's recipe. I cubed the Treadfin Jack fillet then sprinkle on salt and pepper. The cubes are returned to the fridge for 30min until the cubes are translucent. (While the fish are in the fridge, we went for a swim.) Then I add in lime juice to completely cover the cubes and some soya sauce to taste. It was "cured" in the fridge for a further 10min until the surfaces of the fish cubes start to turn opaque. And it's done.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TpJJKAXm0jE/WfOXbQ3sx2I/AAAAAAAAKzo/GbBBKjvpmIAq_W2x2c951rboE8kTUvMJwCLcBGAs/s1600/ceviche_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TpJJKAXm0jE/WfOXbQ3sx2I/AAAAAAAAKzo/GbBBKjvpmIAq_W2x2c951rboE8kTUvMJwCLcBGAs/s640/ceviche_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1152" data-original-height="864" /></a>
<p>
After the little appetizer, we went to Mr. Lionso for tortilla soup, coconut shrimp and shrimp imperial. It was another amazing meal for a very reasonable price.MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-57680528719515926342017-10-16T12:00:00.000-04:002017-10-27T16:27:19.084-04:002017 Mazatlan (Day 2)We started our second day of fishing in the marina to search for the "black donkey"...a species of grunt. We didn't catch any so I have no clue which species it might be. But along the way, I caught a few Burrito Grunts which was a new species. In the past, I thought I had caught the Burrito Grunt. But looking back at the photos from the previous trip, I had misidentified the Silvergrey Grunt (Anisotremus caesius) as a Burrito Grunt. So it was lucky that I can add a species without taking one away.
<p>
Species #754 - Burrito Grunt (Anisotremus interruptus)
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vco-J7th1Bw/We14xv8t6wI/AAAAAAAAKuI/PncCKLOrst87wTPefKBJz_dW5cssWg_3wCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3611_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vco-J7th1Bw/We14xv8t6wI/AAAAAAAAKuI/PncCKLOrst87wTPefKBJz_dW5cssWg_3wCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3611_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
After a short session in the marina, we motored out to the wrecks. Things were looking really promising when my live shrimp was hit on the first drop and a strong fish pulled back. This is fought different from the Blackblotch Pompano. It was diving for the bottom but in slower and shorter bursts. Finally, we had colour and it was a nice snapper. Chalio said it was a Colorado Snapper, and the dorsal scales that paralleled the lateral line confirmed the species identification. Actually, I had caught juveniles of this species in the past but misidentified it as a Pacific Dog Snapper. It feels a bit more legitimate to cross off this species with a decent 5lb fish.
<p>
Colorado Snapper (Lutjanus colorado)
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cbBXEQDd388/We15LpAS67I/AAAAAAAAKuQ/t6qLb-1J6uYs67vJf67x48u2IGjvEqvHACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3617_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cbBXEQDd388/We15LpAS67I/AAAAAAAAKuQ/t6qLb-1J6uYs67vJf67x48u2IGjvEqvHACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3617_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
The Colorado Snapper was the only customer to our shrimp. We moved to another wreck and saw some fish on bottom. It took a while to positioned the boat properly. But when we had the boat just right, it took only 5 minutes before Josh was into a nice fish, which turned out to be a White Snook. Not long after, I had a double tap on my shrimp seconds before George hooked up to another White Snook. Darn! Either George's Snook spat out my shrimp or another Snook was around...but I missed it. We lingered on the wreck a while longer and finally I had a good thump on the rod and it doubled over. My heart was pounding as I anticipated the black line of a White Snook. But alas, it was another Blackblotch Pompano. I would have traded that Blackblotch Pompano to Josh for his White Snook! But that's not how it works LOL.
<p>
While I missed out on the White Snook, a saving grace was the Longfin Salema, a lifer that I caught while fishing a sabiki when the fishing slowed down.
<p>
Species #755 - Longfin Salema (Xenichthys xanti)
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O7drMqZefIQ/We15R3DtvgI/AAAAAAAAKuU/CoutxQ8Q0tUHSxCweHSRdBpToFZLpVtpACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3623_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O7drMqZefIQ/We15R3DtvgI/AAAAAAAAKuU/CoutxQ8Q0tUHSxCweHSRdBpToFZLpVtpACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3623_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
We moved to a spot in the south called Sealion Rock. There's a reason why it was called Sealion Rock.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tATTqN0IaDI/We6tK45arxI/AAAAAAAAKwA/edQe7JtlLUIZL7rxcyJOMQCFoWDTCuuiQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3635_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tATTqN0IaDI/We6tK45arxI/AAAAAAAAKwA/edQe7JtlLUIZL7rxcyJOMQCFoWDTCuuiQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3635_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
The current was just perfect and we anchored over the steep outer wall of the rock. It was a buffet of species coming up. And for a while, every drop yield a different species on everyone's lines. It was another species buffet as quickly as we could drop our lines.
<p>
My first fish was unfortunately a recapture...the Spotfin Porcupinefish. I would have traded Josh for this Longspine Porcupinefish he caught not long after.
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But the next drop yielded a double of Bigeye Trevally, a welcomed new lifer that I did not expect to find in Mazatlan.
<p>
Species #756 - Bigeye Trevally (Caranx sexfasciatus)
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rigzjCcMlQA/We15XbiMNGI/AAAAAAAAKuY/gg5OkXBqkkwPiytaZ74RHawA7bXyqZPBQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3648_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rigzjCcMlQA/We15XbiMNGI/AAAAAAAAKuY/gg5OkXBqkkwPiytaZ74RHawA7bXyqZPBQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3648_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Josh caught a Pacific Creole-fish and I followed up with my own lifer too!
<p>
Species #757 - Pacific Creole-fish (Paranthias colonus)
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jF9rLdG2mZs/We15b4rY5ZI/AAAAAAAAKuc/oq9aVnn2Obc8g3Td_7ZIf3UgZn0MGXRqgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3660_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jF9rLdG2mZs/We15b4rY5ZI/AAAAAAAAKuc/oq9aVnn2Obc8g3Td_7ZIf3UgZn0MGXRqgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3660_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Out of the blue, a Gafftopsail Pompano was on my line. I was familiar with this species as a surf target, but finding it out on the steep wall was a surprise as well. I'll take it!
<p>
Species #758 - Gafftopsail Pompano (Trachinotus rhodopus)
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bK4fbfqm0Fw/We15gc5nJaI/AAAAAAAAKug/Pt50KwzocYQFbDRnAMtZSqOVRsZ3UkMkgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3671_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bK4fbfqm0Fw/We15gc5nJaI/AAAAAAAAKug/Pt50KwzocYQFbDRnAMtZSqOVRsZ3UkMkgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3671_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
I switch between the sabiki rig and the high-low rig to maximize species opportunities. While fishing the high-low rig, a stronger fish turned out to be a nice Pacific Dog Snapper. So in the end, even with prior misidentification, I was able to still add this species to my list! It was a decent 14" fish as well.
<p>
Species #759 - Pacific Dog Snapper (Lutjanus novemfasciatus)
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wuYapEKuYxM/We156M8tl6I/AAAAAAAAKuo/K4XFRjlPfgcCZZewMfCxIhbtmoV_ggYNACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3677_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wuYapEKuYxM/We156M8tl6I/AAAAAAAAKuo/K4XFRjlPfgcCZZewMfCxIhbtmoV_ggYNACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3677_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
Apparently, one sealion was not happy we were catching all its fish. It struck a pose to tell us this was its fishing grounds. Later on, it even got into the water and tried to steal one of my fish off the hook.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eUTauE8W3zM/We6tgLdH6MI/AAAAAAAAKwE/KG1L8tZsCu0rJKLE05eFOKhkTFSb5JJGgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3681_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eUTauE8W3zM/We6tgLdH6MI/AAAAAAAAKwE/KG1L8tZsCu0rJKLE05eFOKhkTFSb5JJGgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3681_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
On one bait check, I saw a few larger fish followed my sabiki up to the surface. They were Unicorn Leatherjacket Filefish which George caught a little earlier. There were 5 or 6 of them circling down below the boat. Using small chunks of shrimp on the sabiki, I hooked one but it eventually chewed or broke my line during the fight. I would lose a couple more before landing one.
<p>
Species #760 - Unicorn Leatherjacket Filefish (Aluterus monoceros).
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ykvEfrLOzKs/We16GuP9t5I/AAAAAAAAKus/Ala9jDxGHJ0cnMvc5Ozu-35PVW0KcMvNgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3685_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ykvEfrLOzKs/We16GuP9t5I/AAAAAAAAKus/Ala9jDxGHJ0cnMvc5Ozu-35PVW0KcMvNgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3685_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
In addition, George caught a Mexican Moonfish and Josh caught a Mexican Goatfish which I missed out. We all picked up some new species and were satisfied to end the day at Sealion Rock.
<p>
We passed by more islands on the way back to the marina. This one had a landscape that reminded me of Jurassic Park.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uO0YKew7Vf0/We6t1SXwM6I/AAAAAAAAKwI/y_FVXi-O1XoJcc_Mf4kY78aYxNmleAXVwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3692_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uO0YKew7Vf0/We6t1SXwM6I/AAAAAAAAKwI/y_FVXi-O1XoJcc_Mf4kY78aYxNmleAXVwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3692_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
After a long, hot day, we decided to relax at the pool again before going to La Zarapes with our White Snook, Orangemouth Weakfish and Blackblotch Pompano fillets. We decided to grill the collar and fillets of the Blackblotch Pompano (fantastic), breaded the Orangemouth Weakfish (a little overcooked but still wonderful) and coconut-coated the White Snook (freaking phenomenal!!!). If you haven't tried Coconut Snook before...do it before you die. It is out of this world good!
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jptnQIANbFw/WfOWmMsWWOI/AAAAAAAAKzg/ciXI11XvWXwsNdO_nFDzccLyyzXrFSEpACLcBGAs/s1600/fish_platter_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jptnQIANbFw/WfOWmMsWWOI/AAAAAAAAKzg/ciXI11XvWXwsNdO_nFDzccLyyzXrFSEpACLcBGAs/s640/fish_platter_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1152" data-original-height="864" /></a>MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-38271138052445325112017-10-15T12:00:00.000-04:002017-10-24T19:55:12.232-04:002017 Mazatlan (Day 1)I traveled and fished a lot in 2016, so much so that I may have been burned out a bit in 2017. This year, although I did fish in Florida, New Hampshire (twice), and a roadtrip to North Carolina and Virginia, the desire to species hunt was waning. For those familiar with this blog, you saw very little update since...Indonesia last November. In addition to other obligations and happenings in life, I simply took species fishing rather nonchalantly this year.
<p>
This summer, I was supposed to visit Mike Bryant in Yellowknife to fish for Inconnu. But with Mike looking for a new home for his family and a late decision on my part, I was not able to find available flights north.
<p>
I learned that George and Josh were planning a trip to Mazatlan. Ben was also in conversation but his move to California restricted his ability to take a trip. So I decided to spend my Yellowknife trip budget on Mazatlan instead.
<p>
Up until the day of departure, I had a disinterest to travel. There were simply too many other happenings at home that kept my mind occupied. But once I step foot in Mazatlan airport and felt the hot humid air, the sense of adventure returned.
<p>
Our plan for the first day involved fishing some wrecks and reefs for three main targets: Orangemouth Weakfish, White Snook and Blackblotch Pompano. George had already been in Mazatlan for a week and fished 4 days. He reported that the water was warmer than usual. The big blue shrimp has not arrived and thus our target were sparse. The Blackblotch Pompano seemed to be the more common of the three at the moment. But we were hoping that cooler water would arrive during our stay and bring in more fish.
<p>
Our captain, Captain C, knows these area well. We fished each spot quickly with big live shrimp. If there was no bite within the first 10 minutes, or if the current doesn't seem right, he would suggest to move to another spot.
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And so we were on the second spot of the day when we soaked our live shrimp for a few minutes and caught a couple of Pacific Jack Crevalle. Then it was silent and Captain C said "no customers". Since we were species anglers (and Captain C knew this well), he suggested that we should try to fish small chunks of shrimp on a high-low rig for other possible species on the wreck. I had just dropped the shrimp chunks for a couple of minutes when the rod suddenly arched downward. It was a fairly substantial fish that put up a few good runs. Perhaps it was a big Snapper, or maybe it was a big Finescale Triggerfish?
<p>
After some tense moments, we finally had colour. Everyone was surprised that the Orangemouth Weakfish passed up three big live shrimp in favour of a small chunk of shrimp.
<p>
Species #751 - Oraangemouth Weakfish (Cynoscion xanthulus)
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g5ZDUJn9t50/We6rLRjUwCI/AAAAAAAAKvo/c9RS4wF0jD4GL4ubdSBVDO_EJI6ZcXldwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3545_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g5ZDUJn9t50/We6rLRjUwCI/AAAAAAAAKvo/c9RS4wF0jD4GL4ubdSBVDO_EJI6ZcXldwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3545_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xflTirsoQNg/We14FBvOklI/AAAAAAAAKt0/rAvhvf9RaJIcEH7GT9wBmrwJyOtnk5j5ACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3549_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xflTirsoQNg/We14FBvOklI/AAAAAAAAKt0/rAvhvf9RaJIcEH7GT9wBmrwJyOtnk5j5ACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3549_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
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Once in a while, we'd be fooled by a Pacific Jack Crevalle...
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8bemD-ENYtA/We6rszKzjgI/AAAAAAAAKvs/YjK6rWr2sUs9UXAENzBSopHpMhIJLMrmwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3552_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8bemD-ENYtA/We6rszKzjgI/AAAAAAAAKvs/YjK6rWr2sUs9UXAENzBSopHpMhIJLMrmwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3552_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
That spot didn't give up any other Weakfish and we moved on.
<p>
We fished a few more wrecks and decided to make a longer move north to a reef that was known to host some Jeweled Moray and Mexican Barred Snapper. Both species were high on my target list since I missed catching these two on the last trip. Before we got to the reef, we spotted a shrimp boat that was on anchor.
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tIVcpuRYJEc/We6r9sKsILI/AAAAAAAAKvw/g4pUYmmgDmcNhmJyNdBARLEN7lbdnOI2ACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3557_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tIVcpuRYJEc/We6r9sKsILI/AAAAAAAAKvw/g4pUYmmgDmcNhmJyNdBARLEN7lbdnOI2ACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3557_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
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The boat has just dumped a huge amount of bycatch and it attracted all the local wildlife.
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OLPBHqbrEwQ/We6sKat2wII/AAAAAAAAKv0/LmqYdNByfO8_1GUghe7fIJ1iyHaLFGhlQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3558_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OLPBHqbrEwQ/We6sKat2wII/AAAAAAAAKv0/LmqYdNByfO8_1GUghe7fIJ1iyHaLFGhlQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3558_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zlZcrjEbrw8/We6sQJ0sXKI/AAAAAAAAKv4/3jjDBjeWcGstQMtAGuXcn-BHOa7s9TeLwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3564_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zlZcrjEbrw8/We6sQJ0sXKI/AAAAAAAAKv4/3jjDBjeWcGstQMtAGuXcn-BHOa7s9TeLwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3564_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
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The bycatch consisted of mainly Shortnose Mojarra and Pacific Moonfish. Both of which would be lifers. There was even a Jewel Moray that was alive...but it likely would not have bite any baited hooks since it was still recovering from the ordeal.
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yHzYDziA3nY/We6sqIJIH0I/AAAAAAAAKv8/oy4JzBpTeOoCwm9hm6r9uYR2-L0_8QONwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3560_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yHzYDziA3nY/We6sqIJIH0I/AAAAAAAAKv8/oy4JzBpTeOoCwm9hm6r9uYR2-L0_8QONwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3560_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
We got a bag of shrimp heads from the shrimp boat. They make really good bait. The fishing was steady and we were catching some Grunt species, a few Finescale Triggerfish and a few Spotted Rose Snapper.
<p>
Then...something else different was on the line. The fish pulled a little harder and dove a little more determined. It didn't have the surges and pulses of a big Triggerfish, so I was expecting a larger Snapper. When the fish finally surfaced, I could see the alternating red and white vertical bars and my heart skipped a beat. A smooth swing into the boat and my lifer Mexican Barred Snapper was in my hand!
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Species #752 - Mexican Barred Snapper (Hoplopagrus guentherii)
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L6Ul1a__NC8/We14b5p0dcI/AAAAAAAAKt4/JUEcbaUcLIoM1eGdN3qtDRs0XYAKl18HACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3572_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L6Ul1a__NC8/We14b5p0dcI/AAAAAAAAKt4/JUEcbaUcLIoM1eGdN3qtDRs0XYAKl18HACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3572_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
George caught one not long after and we were rooting for Josh to catch one for his lifer. As it often in species fishing the first of the species could take an immense effort and years to achieve...but once you crossed the species off, they jump on the hook often and without intention. And so it was on this day. I would catch 2 more Mexican Barred Snapper and George would catch one more before they stopped biting. It left Josh longing for the species...and I can completely relate to that feeling from two years ago.
<p>
Even so, Josh was doing quite well on the day with a few species added. We fished the reef until the action slowed down. It was getting toward noon when we headed south again to fish a couple of wrecks closer to part to finish up our day.
<p>
On the first wreck that we tried, we were soaking the live shrimp for a while and Captain C suggested we should make a small adjustment of the anchor. When he said it was good to drop our baits again, my shrimp had barely arrived on the bottom when it was thumped hard and the rod loaded up. This fish ran with a lot of power and I had to tighten the drag a little a couple of times. After what felt like a few minutes (probably less...it always felt longer), we saw a broad silvery shape circling under the boat. Our mate grabbed the gaff and a missed gaff shot had the fish diving again. Luckily the second gaff attempt struck and my lifer Blackblotch Pompano was in the boat. This species look very much like their Atlantic cousin (the Permit). If Permit fight as hard as this species, I look forward to catching a nice Permit in the future.
<p>
Species #753 - Blackblotch Pompano (Trachinotus kennedyi)
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JTkep79icWU/We14jDf7NLI/AAAAAAAAKuA/1jn3su2YbBoqKxDrw7CxLj94uLyvPcCqwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3588_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JTkep79icWU/We14jDf7NLI/AAAAAAAAKuA/1jn3su2YbBoqKxDrw7CxLj94uLyvPcCqwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3588_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f495hDNvPfM/We14knUtpUI/AAAAAAAAKuE/ovXrcOcJHmceTcl8VLfMHZh7ygaRjoqUQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3596_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f495hDNvPfM/We14knUtpUI/AAAAAAAAKuE/ovXrcOcJHmceTcl8VLfMHZh7ygaRjoqUQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3596_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1200" /></a>
<p>
The presence of the Blackblotch Pompano got everyone excited. Usually if there was one there would be others. But On this day, either the others were not in the mood to feed, or the school had moved on. We fished another wreck to end the day and did not find any other Weakfish or Pompano.
<p>
Instead of doing some shore fishing in the afternoon, we decided to take it easy and visited the hotel pool to cool off. What a treat it was! Even better was the full rack of ribs at Roy's in Cerritos that cost only 130 pesos. Fishing in Mazatlan is good. But the food is phenomenal!
<p>
Just like every other trips, I had set some targets for this trip. I was hoping for 15 new species and among these there were 6 lifers that were high on my list. To be able to knock off 3 of the top 6 on the first day was spectacular. And there were 5 more days of fishing to come.MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-4360415273240144232017-01-04T01:46:00.001-05:002017-01-04T02:31:51.431-05:00First ice trip to finish 2016First ice is always unpredictable and requires knowledge of the waterbodies, experience, safety equipment and good judgement in order to return home safely. I fished a few spots around Ottawa with my friend Eli who knows the region well for the last few days of 2016 and the first day of 2017.
Dec 29
We started the morning on Ottawa River so my friend Michael can catch his lifer Sauger. I hooked up with the first fish and luckily it wasn't a Sauger but an 8" Walleye. Eventually, after an hour or so, Michael finally caught a small Sauger.
We decided to move to another location to try for Redhorse through the ice. Unfortunately, the ice was very inconsistent at this river location. The ice changed from 4" of black ice to 2.5" of black ice only 15 feet away. It was really scary. The current was also very strong under the ice. We stayed on the area with 4" of ice and didn't wander off. The strong current shut down the bite and we didn't even get a sniff. After a few good hours, we decided to return to Ottawa River.
Fishing the Ottawa River for the rest of the afternoon, there were very few fish seen on the sonar. I managed a small Sauger while Michael caught a small Walleye. Eli missed a bite and that was it. It was a miserable bite all day.
Dec 30
We wanted to fish a lake for Rainbow Smelt. Michael and I arrived by 9am while Eli arrived an hour later. We found 4" of black ice that was consistent throughout the lake. We started at 90 feet of water and didn't move all day. We didn't move because Rainbow Smelt schools were passing under us all day and we caught about 5 dozen of them, and the fact that it was blowing a wicked blizzard all day. Eli was fishing further away from us but didn't do as well, probably due to a combination of not having a rod with soft enough tip to see the delicate bite and the lack of minnows to tip the jigs.
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gtpd3oqUWpk/WGyYWn4NeSI/AAAAAAAAKP0/JgrO_GrPdg8AQsVtsWOivnCMXt-I2VoSQCLcB/s1600/PC300463_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gtpd3oqUWpk/WGyYWn4NeSI/AAAAAAAAKP0/JgrO_GrPdg8AQsVtsWOivnCMXt-I2VoSQCLcB/s640/PC300463_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
Later in the afternoon, after Eli left early, Michael and I fished shallower for Walleye or Northern Pike. Michael abandoned his hole at 20 feet of water so I took it. Upon the first drop with a minnow and spoon, a fish followed the lure up and took it. After a few runs, a 21" Walleye came up the hole.
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BsXax7uFMj4/WGyZvQV3TJI/AAAAAAAAKQA/MB1P4WEaNvMXkf6TcaKzoWKE76xpDx3oQCLcB/s1600/PC300468_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BsXax7uFMj4/WGyZvQV3TJI/AAAAAAAAKQA/MB1P4WEaNvMXkf6TcaKzoWKE76xpDx3oQCLcB/s640/PC300468_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SI9HCSxLaIQ/WGrN_mn2U7I/AAAAAAAAKO8/I_kV9zfVDu0edjFZAOakgWEZ8wQ-ZWDewCLcB/s1600/IMG_1109_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SI9HCSxLaIQ/WGrN_mn2U7I/AAAAAAAAKO8/I_kV9zfVDu0edjFZAOakgWEZ8wQ-ZWDewCLcB/s640/IMG_1109_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
After that, I lost another fish on the next drop which was likely a Walleye. The drop following, it took just a few more minutes until I hooked up again and landed a 16" Walleye. The next couple of drops resulted in one more looker and one fish that ripped my minnow off. The action all came within a 30min period and then completely died. We fished until full dark and found our way back thanks to the GPS.
Dec 31
Hoping for some better action, we fished a lake known to produce many smaller Northern Pike. Unfortunately, the bite wasn't as hot as expected, likely due to the unstable weather. I did catch my first Northern Pike of this icefishing season by mid-morning.
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uWRHYWJeisY/WGrPBTKSuPI/AAAAAAAAKPY/W0-53oEVsvcU6EYGwTBvTa0bGpiA2H13QCLcB/s1600/IMG_1111_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uWRHYWJeisY/WGrPBTKSuPI/AAAAAAAAKPY/W0-53oEVsvcU6EYGwTBvTa0bGpiA2H13QCLcB/s640/IMG_1111_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
Eli then followed up not too long later with a Northern Pike of his own, and I finished up with another 20" Northern Pike. We added in a few Yellow Perch as well. Michael had a couple of Yellow Perch and that was his total for the day.
Jan 1
After a night of celebrating, it was a late start. I didn't get on the ice until 10am while Michael had other plans with friends. It was a beautiful day that was clear, calm and warm. The fish were active, especially Yellow Perch up to 9".
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-81XjVZ27mcI/WGrODuQFBxI/AAAAAAAAKPA/MePxIehw7cIg_sFy-2Lnyg2W3GBQZbhkwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1112_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-81XjVZ27mcI/WGrODuQFBxI/AAAAAAAAKPA/MePxIehw7cIg_sFy-2Lnyg2W3GBQZbhkwCLcB/s640/IMG_1112_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
I was expecting the Northern Pike to be active as well, but only managed to catch one that was 23".
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_YHIGKdZOuQ/WGrOFWRraGI/AAAAAAAAKPE/GSRSZv2zA6UJx6YLzkiJdH_eeKgeAb5vQCLcB/s1600/IMG_1115_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_YHIGKdZOuQ/WGrOFWRraGI/AAAAAAAAKPE/GSRSZv2zA6UJx6YLzkiJdH_eeKgeAb5vQCLcB/s640/IMG_1115_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
By noon, clouds moved in and the bite completely stopped. Around 2pm, there was a little more fish movement under the sonar, but most were dink Yellow Perch except for this 8" Pumpkinseed Sunfish.
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oASwY7biSik/WGrO-EOJ08I/AAAAAAAAKPQ/X1pwN7gK8NYEIXi9t--2vckcovUmg0AfgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1116_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oASwY7biSik/WGrO-EOJ08I/AAAAAAAAKPQ/X1pwN7gK8NYEIXi9t--2vckcovUmg0AfgCLcB/s640/IMG_1116_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
With the invasion of dink Perch, it meant that Northern Pike would not be nearby. In fact, that was how it went until dusk.
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NQWj9rQbqqo/WGrOL3W1RQI/AAAAAAAAKPI/8Eem-j73eN8m42p6MuMDiiEYucVt8Vt-gCLcB/s1600/IMG_1118_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NQWj9rQbqqo/WGrOL3W1RQI/AAAAAAAAKPI/8Eem-j73eN8m42p6MuMDiiEYucVt8Vt-gCLcB/s640/IMG_1118_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
And so 4 days of icefishing came and went. It was a great way to close out 2016 with a couple of nice Walleye and 5 dozen Rainbow Smelt, and a great way to start 2017 with some fish caught. I look forward to see what else 2017 will offer!MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-32954776292998624082016-11-18T07:58:00.000-05:002016-12-24T14:18:14.339-05:002016 Asia - Siem Reap (Day 9)We woke up at 5:30am, took a shower, had breakfast and met Keo at 6:30am. We wanted to beat the crowds this morning as we planned to visit the famous Banteay Srei, which was located about 45min from our hotel
<p>
Along the way, we made a quick stop at Prae Roup. We didn't plan to visit this temple at all, but since it was on the way, we took a few quick photos. While we were walking around, I saw some tiny thumb size frogs on the wet lawn. I quickly caught one, but despite added efforts, I couldn't catch any more of them. My one frog will just had to work its magic later.
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X3RtJzAlS4k/WFkrLGpzz6I/AAAAAAAAKEs/qeGWCHNA9j8aAw3um88PnScMnbTAF6VpACLcB/s1600/IMG_0392_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X3RtJzAlS4k/WFkrLGpzz6I/AAAAAAAAKEs/qeGWCHNA9j8aAw3um88PnScMnbTAF6VpACLcB/s640/IMG_0392_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
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We arrived at Banteay Srei to find just a few cars and a lone tour bus. Great! My sister needed to use the bathroom which was conveniently situated by a swampy area. Peering into the water, I saw many Threespot Gourami. I asked the guards at the gate if it was possible to fish the area and they gave me the OK. So I planned to return later to try to catch these fish.
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Banteay Srei is a 10th century temple known for its many intricate and well preserved carvings. It is the only major temple not built by the Khmer monarchy and its size is relative small.
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VH9i6NIiwU8/WFkrM4WzOPI/AAAAAAAAKEw/F36_Dbx9B30M49IWhAzw9_nvuWxX_966QCLcB/s1600/DSC02529_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VH9i6NIiwU8/WFkrM4WzOPI/AAAAAAAAKEw/F36_Dbx9B30M49IWhAzw9_nvuWxX_966QCLcB/s640/DSC02529_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
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The French archeologist who discovered the temple tried to sell off four devastas but was caught, thus ensuring the protection of this temple from any further losses.
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-flwIdA-W-WU/WFkrSzNJbHI/AAAAAAAAKE8/mZ5U0jhbK6EI98mm2IqEnqMTANPhpO5DQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0415_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-flwIdA-W-WU/WFkrSzNJbHI/AAAAAAAAKE8/mZ5U0jhbK6EI98mm2IqEnqMTANPhpO5DQCLcB/s640/IMG_0415_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
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The temple had three main towers.
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g5gRC6ezkfY/WFkrQ0N_vsI/AAAAAAAAKE0/UAhGeky7fUk8xAs-vMo8YqdC79aNQ2XNgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0425_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g5gRC6ezkfY/WFkrQ0N_vsI/AAAAAAAAKE0/UAhGeky7fUk8xAs-vMo8YqdC79aNQ2XNgCLcB/s640/IMG_0425_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
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Every exposed surfaces of the towers were meticulously decorated with Hindu themes. The hard sandstone used in its construction helped to preserve the carving to this day.
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E5apZwjX27E/WFkrRRFiiiI/AAAAAAAAKE4/7IrHn2QNtOIWjTqVEQ6Ex_PQlVBmHXl-ACLcB/s1600/IMG_0428_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E5apZwjX27E/WFkrRRFiiiI/AAAAAAAAKE4/7IrHn2QNtOIWjTqVEQ6Ex_PQlVBmHXl-ACLcB/s640/IMG_0428_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
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Looking through the doorway of the mandapa.
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mMhN9TksO8Q/WFkrU33FcMI/AAAAAAAAKFA/gLiGah9uI0Miua4PAmkd5dEGrJbCxGOcQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0431_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mMhN9TksO8Q/WFkrU33FcMI/AAAAAAAAKFA/gLiGah9uI0Miua4PAmkd5dEGrJbCxGOcQCLcB/s640/IMG_0431_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
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After an hour, the bus tour crowded began to arrive. My sister and I beat a quick retreat and we headed to our next destination, Kbal Spean at Phnom Koluen National Park. It took another 40min of driving in a northeast direction until we reached the park.
<p>
To reach the Kbal Spean, we must hike 1.5km in the beautiful forest of Phnom Koluen Mountain. There were a number of wildlife that could be found in the National Park including birds, reptiles and some small mammals. We didn't have to worry about large mammals like Asian Elephant or Tiger as they were not found in the park according to the sign. We saw a few bird species, some beautiful butterflies and a few lizards, all of which were too quick to photograph.
<p>
The trail was not necessarily smooth. One section required us to hike up a rocky gully. It wasn't an issue at all for my sister and I, but I wonder how some of the older visitors managed. Perhaps their tour guide knows another route.
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qE2uApUlzw4/WF63Am62u2I/AAAAAAAAKN0/fwHPlgfWSksLYiWnr5nnkvBTK0IDy5pwACLcB/s1600/IMG_0449_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qE2uApUlzw4/WF63Am62u2I/AAAAAAAAKN0/fwHPlgfWSksLYiWnr5nnkvBTK0IDy5pwACLcB/s640/IMG_0449_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
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Along the way, we saw a large rock perched on a pedestal. It may look precarious, but looks can be deceiving as the rock was well anchored by roots. Some of these roots actually penetrated through the rock!
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zKZwuzkLyIA/WFkr1jEi_lI/AAAAAAAAKF4/xYMWbrWvKlAt16lJqyAe2kNfXeDMYHKbQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0453_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zKZwuzkLyIA/WFkr1jEi_lI/AAAAAAAAKF4/xYMWbrWvKlAt16lJqyAe2kNfXeDMYHKbQCLcB/s640/IMG_0453_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
The trails were much more manicured closer to the ultimate attraction.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-twsT7UzmesM/WFkrXIeTf8I/AAAAAAAAKFE/FJJ5HMWeG7AtZU_l5nhJIM3YTN8mQYCqQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0455_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-twsT7UzmesM/WFkrXIeTf8I/AAAAAAAAKFE/FJJ5HMWeG7AtZU_l5nhJIM3YTN8mQYCqQCLcB/s640/IMG_0455_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Kbal Spean, otherwise known as The River of a Thousand Lingas, is an Angkorian site. It is believed that the phallic-looking lingas were carved into the bed of this tributary of the Siem Reap River would bless the water flowing into the Angkor. Other Hindu carvings can also be found along the river bank.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x2vD_SPl5-0/WFkrYh2WlPI/AAAAAAAAKFI/dcIbjXowamEh5NadJV3BagFbqgIhY9KxgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0465_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x2vD_SPl5-0/WFkrYh2WlPI/AAAAAAAAKFI/dcIbjXowamEh5NadJV3BagFbqgIhY9KxgCLcB/s640/IMG_0465_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XB0-oQN7H1k/WFkrajre2FI/AAAAAAAAKFM/N87Eet9qp2IfMBmgNaNb2vmfr0Gqy-DlACLcB/s1600/IMG_0474_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XB0-oQN7H1k/WFkrajre2FI/AAAAAAAAKFM/N87Eet9qp2IfMBmgNaNb2vmfr0Gqy-DlACLcB/s640/IMG_0474_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
There were small species of fish that were present. But out of respect, I would not fish at a holy site like this. We did crossed the river at the beginning of the hike and wondered if it was possible to fish there. I guess we would never know.
<p>
My sister and I thoroughly enjoyed our hike, although the "1000 Lingas" was a bit of an exaggeration. We met Keo again at the car and returned to Banteay Srei for lunch. After lunch, my sister and I split up for an hour. While she shopped for some souvenirs, I spent the time at the aforementioned swampy area to try for Threespot Gourami.
<p>
Despite the sheer number of these Gourami, none of them, neither adult or juvenile, wanted to bite. I've tried both bread and flake of worm, and even tried rice at one point. While looking around, I spotted a sneaky little Striped Snakehead hiding under the lily pad. Keo said Striped Snakehead rarely bite during midday, and the other taxi and tuk-tuk drivers were doubtful my short UL rod would be useful to catch the Snakehead.
<p>
I love proving people wrong. I had been carrying the little frog in my pocket since I caught it this morning. Unfortunately, since the fabric was rather dry, the frog had expired. However, it was still fresh enough to be enticing, and I hooked into onto a #6 octopus hook. I wanted to keep the frog on the surface so the line only had the smallest splitshot pinched on, which made the entire rig a little difficult to cast in the breeze. Still, a few casts later, I was able to adjust to the weight and placed the frog in a likely spot at the edge of the lily patch.
<p>
As if the fish was expecting the frog, I saw my line twitched only a couple of seconds after the frog had sank a few inches below the surface. The line then quickly veered to the left and I tightened the slack into immediately headshakes. My braided line cut through the weeds effectively despite the valiant effort from the Snakehead to get me buried as deeply as possible. Unfortunately for the fish, even with my UL rod, it was a little small to put up too much of a struggle. To be fair, the Snakehead was about 11" long, so it wasn't completely overpowered by the gear at all. Finally, I caught my top Cambodian target!
<p>
Striped Snakehead (Channa striata) - Species #689
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zhCGf8gFPNE/WFkr6es0MiI/AAAAAAAAKF8/gaYeViiIS-YligP4hQEj2PEXoc7-HY3bACLcB/s1600/IMG_0483_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zhCGf8gFPNE/WFkr6es0MiI/AAAAAAAAKF8/gaYeViiIS-YligP4hQEj2PEXoc7-HY3bACLcB/s640/IMG_0483_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
All the taxi and tuk-tuk drivers finally shut up about the inadequate nature of my fishing gear, and Keo said I was very good at fishing, haha! That's right boys, live and learn! Keo wanted the fish to take home to his family, so I gave it to him.
<p>
The little frog was lost during the fight, so I tried a small rubber frog for a while and had no other hits. I also did not see any other Snakehead in the area. I tried for Threespot Gourami a little longer and finally ran out of time.
<p>
We hopped into the car again and drove south to East Mebon. This 10th century temple was constructed on an island in the center of East Baray reservoir. The reservoir had long been dried. The snadtone was brilliantly red in the midday sun and contrasted strikingly against the blue sky.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-31rTmbkTP6s/WFkrc0mIqeI/AAAAAAAAKFQ/oM-YsYR5WRM5eh2qjxp3Hp9Q8Sp4huIBQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0494_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-31rTmbkTP6s/WFkrc0mIqeI/AAAAAAAAKFQ/oM-YsYR5WRM5eh2qjxp3Hp9Q8Sp4huIBQCLcB/s640/IMG_0494_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Much of the stucco that decorated the surfaces had been lost, and some of the statues were damaged.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sMVc-3PllHQ/WFkrfIywSBI/AAAAAAAAKFU/PDIabqPktCg2BTc9bS6UdICN2LA4F1IigCLcB/s1600/IMG_0495_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sMVc-3PllHQ/WFkrfIywSBI/AAAAAAAAKFU/PDIabqPktCg2BTc9bS6UdICN2LA4F1IigCLcB/s640/IMG_0495_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Initially, I thought nature had not been kind to the temple as there were many holes on the surfaces of the structure. I thought these were made by insects. Further reading suggested that these holes were in fact man-made. They served as anchoring points for the stucco that decorated the surfaces.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lNhLiCI-6Jw/WFkrhntqzxI/AAAAAAAAKFY/BIwG5wvQ8GYTRpIE9QPbDrJSMA-dpBiPwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0498_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lNhLiCI-6Jw/WFkrhntqzxI/AAAAAAAAKFY/BIwG5wvQ8GYTRpIE9QPbDrJSMA-dpBiPwCLcB/s640/IMG_0498_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We departed the open atmosphere of East Mebon for the much welcomed shade at Ta Som. Ta Som is a small 12th century temple. We especially like the cross-shaped gopura that was decorated by four faces.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BPXaBO-ib7A/WFkrkCMH0GI/AAAAAAAAKFc/MCaPNEyigV4nWvjfNb3y5iFGfZRHoq6YwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0502_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BPXaBO-ib7A/WFkrkCMH0GI/AAAAAAAAKFc/MCaPNEyigV4nWvjfNb3y5iFGfZRHoq6YwCLcB/s640/IMG_0502_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
The central structure was enclosed by three laterite walls.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qfRj2edk6zs/WFkrmPyamFI/AAAAAAAAKFg/-i6COfdS0Zsc3nxOV9sp0TEBJlTyooRVQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0505_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qfRj2edk6zs/WFkrmPyamFI/AAAAAAAAKFg/-i6COfdS0Zsc3nxOV9sp0TEBJlTyooRVQCLcB/s640/IMG_0505_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Some of the carvings were preserved. I love this shot peering through the carved doorway into another set of carving behind.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xfu9HAD1NAQ/WFkroLr8O0I/AAAAAAAAKFk/xjuanEvPVaoK-9KVnmAxnlxgO89lnawLQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0533_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xfu9HAD1NAQ/WFkroLr8O0I/AAAAAAAAKFk/xjuanEvPVaoK-9KVnmAxnlxgO89lnawLQCLcB/s640/IMG_0533_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Next, we visited Neak Pean. Neak Pean was a Buddhist temple constructed on an island in the Preah Khan Baray. The huge reservoir is a protected swampland now. I saw many species of fish, but unfortunately there were signs to indicate that fishing is not permitted. It was especially cool to see six Striped Snakehead hunting cooperatively in the shallows. I did not know they hunt cooperatively!
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wvUEysSVu2c/WF7DzccY3uI/AAAAAAAAKOE/PGlbogiI4wYk70N89YhwR4BCPpWg7UX8QCLcB/s1600/IMG_0545_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wvUEysSVu2c/WF7DzccY3uI/AAAAAAAAKOE/PGlbogiI4wYk70N89YhwR4BCPpWg7UX8QCLcB/s640/IMG_0545_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>Neak Pean
<p>
This temple designed for medicinal purposes, as bathing in the pools were thought to balance the elements and cure diseases. Thus, some believe this temple represented the mythical Himalayan lake Anavatapta. However, on this day, the central pool was stained green by algae bloom. It was rather unappealing. I'm sure once upon a time when this temple was maintained, the water must appear to have magical properties.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-52nNkgBUPyM/WFkrqBrqy9I/AAAAAAAAKFo/TeWNUtrrAcMovYvzfrGfC8O8NpzZTLkQgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0550_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-52nNkgBUPyM/WFkrqBrqy9I/AAAAAAAAKFo/TeWNUtrrAcMovYvzfrGfC8O8NpzZTLkQgCLcB/s640/IMG_0550_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Our last stop of the day was Preah Khan, a large 12th century temple. As opposed to temple mountains, this temple was flat in design. Like Beng Mealea, it was left largely unrestored. Unfortunately for us, we were only able to take a couple of quick photos before the sky opened up and it rained with monsoon-like volume for 30 minutes!
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YIxtTeJLD1Y/WFkrr8rKeoI/AAAAAAAAKFs/OG1tdGDRCZYwx65Szpi951J7GNx5YEMnACLcB/s1600/IMG_0561_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YIxtTeJLD1Y/WFkrr8rKeoI/AAAAAAAAKFs/OG1tdGDRCZYwx65Szpi951J7GNx5YEMnACLcB/s640/IMG_0561_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We took shelter with some local ladies and kids who were selling souvenirs. They were very kind to invite us under their shelter. Everywhere was wet and muddy after the rain had stopped. My sister didn't want to explore further in the mud so we decided to return to the car.
<p>
As an indication of just how wet and muddy it was, my sister spotted a 12" Philippine Catfish "crawling" across the muddy avenue that lead to the temple. These catfish are also known as Walking Catfish for their ability to crawl over ground from one waterbody to another. The fish was at least 100 metres from the closest water source. I decided to grab it and donated it to Keo, since he already had the Striped Snakehead I caught earlier.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HvCSBd-hz9A/WFkrt3oZ-UI/AAAAAAAAKFw/-2qGRzTSs3EJf7W0qUHJNv53vylr_ip4wCLcB/s1600/IMG_0565_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HvCSBd-hz9A/WFkrt3oZ-UI/AAAAAAAAKFw/-2qGRzTSs3EJf7W0qUHJNv53vylr_ip4wCLcB/s640/IMG_0565_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
On the way to the hotel, we passed by the South Gate of Angkor Thom. While consulting Keo a few months ago, I was told that fishing was not allowed within the entire Angkor Archeological Park. But on this day, Keo said we could actually fish the moat around Angkor Thom. Since our temple tour was cut short by the rain, we had an hour left before dusk. My sister said she had no problem resting in the car while Keo and I tried the moat for a bit.
<p>
As soon as we arrived, I saw a small Striped Snakehead in the weeds. It came to inspect the small wiggling worm but ultimately decided not to take the chance after looking directly and intently at me. We caught many Malayan Leaffish until I finally caught a new species with the tanago hook.
<p>
Three-lined Rasbora (Rasbora trilineata) - Species #690
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aiJnv6CFiuU/WFkrvCKuRdI/AAAAAAAAKF0/awS3qP3E0-QWoEJpF7IrwjZ9IIfNv_qHgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0572_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aiJnv6CFiuU/WFkrvCKuRdI/AAAAAAAAKF0/awS3qP3E0-QWoEJpF7IrwjZ9IIfNv_qHgCLcB/s640/IMG_0572_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We quickly ran out of day light and Keo delivered us back to the hotel. I'm sure we had dinner that night, but honestly can't remember where we ate and what we had. But we were in bed early as we had a very early start the next morning.MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-27107112043172570682016-11-17T07:44:00.000-05:002016-12-24T12:27:52.024-05:002016 Asia - Siem Reap (Day 8)My sister and I landed in Siem Reap airport and our driver, Keo, was already waiting due to a slight flight delay. I chose Keo specifically since he was the only driver, from a dozen that I've spoken to, who knew anything about fishing in the Siem Reap area. While he's not a fishing guide by any stretch of imagination, at least he knows a few fishing spots where we can explore, and names of some local fishes that we can target.
<p>
The first order of the day was to purchase our Angkor Archaeological Park pass. It was a chaos at the ticket office with several thousand people waiting to take a photo and obtain a printed pass, but it was relatively quick and painless considering the crowds.
<p>
With out passes in hand, Keo pointed the car south for 45 minutes. Our first stop was Bakong, a 9th century AD temple mountain made of sandstone, that was the first of its kind constructed during the Khmer empire. These temple mountains represents Mount Meru, the home of the gods in Hinduism. The temple is a stepped pyramid with strong Indian temple architecture influences.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IlRCSvZ03gY/WFkn_VIPhjI/AAAAAAAAKDE/iglpa8yUbUAAfaABPDO5gNCa2gQqrsShgCLcB/s1600/DSC02357_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IlRCSvZ03gY/WFkn_VIPhjI/AAAAAAAAKDE/iglpa8yUbUAAfaABPDO5gNCa2gQqrsShgCLcB/s640/DSC02357_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Stone elephants protected the corners of each level.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f0uUP7uhpEw/WFkoIBIgpxI/AAAAAAAAKDI/lVC8y6kKeK8yXyMdg_W6Ew32hLsgQMAeACLcB/s1600/IMG_0295_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f0uUP7uhpEw/WFkoIBIgpxI/AAAAAAAAKDI/lVC8y6kKeK8yXyMdg_W6Ew32hLsgQMAeACLcB/s640/IMG_0295_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Stone lions flanked the central stairways.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SKeo6EG901Q/WFkoJFvLqfI/AAAAAAAAKDM/ZEVqJl-yyUw6QZexWHaKE5zoRrrbvJ10ACLcB/s1600/IMG_0297_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SKeo6EG901Q/WFkoJFvLqfI/AAAAAAAAKDM/ZEVqJl-yyUw6QZexWHaKE5zoRrrbvJ10ACLcB/s640/IMG_0297_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
A statue that was long lost and only the foot remains.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j_avhWFA8Ak/WFkoJqpNxVI/AAAAAAAAKDQ/ZdxYffT2ZcwliSfZkeRGgRiLJrg0VGbGQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0304_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j_avhWFA8Ak/WFkoJqpNxVI/AAAAAAAAKDQ/ZdxYffT2ZcwliSfZkeRGgRiLJrg0VGbGQCLcB/s640/IMG_0304_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
A short distance away, we visited Preah Ko. This was the first temple constructed in the ancient Khmer capital Hariharalaya, and this temple predates Bakong. It was a much smaller structure that had two rows of three brick towers.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L8iZtvGpNCI/WFkoWXue8ZI/AAAAAAAAKDU/kDkh8QfTXaAPpycvHbXOcNCyqAe6y65jwCLcB/s1600/DSC02359_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L8iZtvGpNCI/WFkoWXue8ZI/AAAAAAAAKDU/kDkh8QfTXaAPpycvHbXOcNCyqAe6y65jwCLcB/s640/DSC02359_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Stone lion guarded the entrance to the tower.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RSEFrec-F5o/WFkoWiK4vvI/AAAAAAAAKDY/5wmFQTVKTCUYWZ2ODUMfTaD7RK-vZapkACLcB/s1600/DSC02364_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RSEFrec-F5o/WFkoWiK4vvI/AAAAAAAAKDY/5wmFQTVKTCUYWZ2ODUMfTaD7RK-vZapkACLcB/s640/DSC02364_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
While much of the carving had been lost or stolen, the remaining carving gave an indication how well decorated this temple was in the past.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9cdpHxTdo8o/WFkobQZbPAI/AAAAAAAAKDc/fMjhZHwIvLYCkFYydCQmtYGwSffTRNcxQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0311_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9cdpHxTdo8o/WFkobQZbPAI/AAAAAAAAKDc/fMjhZHwIvLYCkFYydCQmtYGwSffTRNcxQCLcB/s640/IMG_0311_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
The last temple for this morning was Lolei. Together with Bakong and Preah Ko, these three are known as the Roluos group because they are situated in the modern day town of Roluos. Unfortunately, Lolei was under restoration and the entire complex was concealed by bamboo platforms and canvass sheets. My sister and I stepped into the Buddhist temple, Wat Lolei, beside the ancient run and found an amazing interior!
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ClNjELfn5Ow/WFkocDaCsqI/AAAAAAAAKDg/d6wx6zlDnQUcZDdFBYJyJZ5Yc6HpqqVNwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0318_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ClNjELfn5Ow/WFkocDaCsqI/AAAAAAAAKDg/d6wx6zlDnQUcZDdFBYJyJZ5Yc6HpqqVNwCLcB/s640/IMG_0318_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We took a break for lunch at a nearby restaurant that was conveniently near the Roluos River. The restaurant selection was obviously by design. LOL
<p>
The food was decent, but it was still much too touristy for our liking.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dxjQR6mnRgs/WF6n2wRPMRI/AAAAAAAAKNk/k7CN0G0LQOoi10cGoslcFCcDWjBiWJORwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0320_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dxjQR6mnRgs/WF6n2wRPMRI/AAAAAAAAKNk/k7CN0G0LQOoi10cGoslcFCcDWjBiWJORwCLcB/s640/IMG_0320_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Desserts that were delicious.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BAVn8Atykm4/WF6n2QoLJjI/AAAAAAAAKNg/ARGeTj47Cb82daEHOKEKPAu1yvftLUtyACLcB/s1600/IMG_0321_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BAVn8Atykm4/WF6n2QoLJjI/AAAAAAAAKNg/ARGeTj47Cb82daEHOKEKPAu1yvftLUtyACLcB/s640/IMG_0321_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We sat a at a table that overlooked the river, and it was a torture watching small Striped Snakehead hunting small fish along the margins. Unfortunately, the restaurant staff said I could not fish on the property. As soon as lunch was finished, Keo and I went to fish another section of the river while my sister took a nap at the hammocks that the restaurant provided.
<p>
Using worms, it took no time to start landing some fish. Unfortunately, the most plentiful species was also one that I had caught previously.
<p>
Malayan Leaffish
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5oAKBYe-0eU/WFkonJsqNxI/AAAAAAAAKDs/aIp5-CMWquUNcGUXxOa3MuM5rirGKK8WQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0326_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5oAKBYe-0eU/WFkonJsqNxI/AAAAAAAAKDs/aIp5-CMWquUNcGUXxOa3MuM5rirGKK8WQCLcB/s640/IMG_0326_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Finally, after catching a dozen of Malayam Leaffish, I was able to find a new species.
<p>
Bonylip Barb (Osteochilus vittatus) - Species #687
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-viI6v5t1Cxc/WFkol5u7n5I/AAAAAAAAKDo/UJ1LwuX3xc0Pwp65YhWWiLzz6t5Xi6pkwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0328_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-viI6v5t1Cxc/WFkol5u7n5I/AAAAAAAAKDo/UJ1LwuX3xc0Pwp65YhWWiLzz6t5Xi6pkwCLcB/s640/IMG_0328_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Occasionally, a Striped Snakehead would surface. However, they didn't want worms. Keo did catch a really cool freshwater Puffer that I could not catch. I started to walk around to look for Striped Snakehead only to find none at our location. It is important to note that Striped Snakehead can be found very shallow. They are extrememly wary of people and the simple act of walking along the shoreline can cause them to retreat into deeper water or into the vegetation.
<p>
While looking for Snakehead, I saw a little fish swimming over the tops of the weeds. It eagerly took a flake of worm on the tanago hook and I was surprised to find one of my target species so quickly.
<p>
Croaking Gourami (Trichopsis vittata) - Species #688
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VrpxOteNvqY/WFkolhRcOEI/AAAAAAAAKDk/HlQHbzOKeTYHSUz7dph-jVzFdO3neOqPACLcB/s1600/IMG_0333_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VrpxOteNvqY/WFkolhRcOEI/AAAAAAAAKDk/HlQHbzOKeTYHSUz7dph-jVzFdO3neOqPACLcB/s640/IMG_0333_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
The Croaking Gourami looked like it had a bad experience with a Snakehead.
<p>
We only had an hour to fish and the session was quickly over. Striped Snakehead will have to wait another day. However, the sheer number of them that I saw gave me some confidence that I'll find one soon enough.
<p>
Originally, our itinerary would take us further south to the shore of the massive Tonle Sap Lake, where my sister and I can visit the floating villages and watch sunset on the lake. I also had a couple of hours of fishing included in this plan. However, it was incredible hot and muggy and the sky was quite cloudy, so we decided to change our plans.
<p>
Keo recommended a visit to Beng Mealea, an unrestored Hindu temple built with the same architectural style as Angkor Wat. While some of the vegetation has been cleared away, the complex was still deeply gripped by tropical trees.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kaVjEa6d-As/WFkqePIn9pI/AAAAAAAAKEg/Y7jDYQ7wwv0xs3bF4Jdg6XL5wQZfae4SQCLcB/s1600/DSC02399_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kaVjEa6d-As/WFkqePIn9pI/AAAAAAAAKEg/Y7jDYQ7wwv0xs3bF4Jdg6XL5wQZfae4SQCLcB/s640/DSC02399_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vXXT1GmO-Hc/WFkopzWxtLI/AAAAAAAAKDw/0ocJ1pCQvEEAqx31i7IESdzixzuqeAYfQCLcB/s1600/DSC02471_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vXXT1GmO-Hc/WFkopzWxtLI/AAAAAAAAKDw/0ocJ1pCQvEEAqx31i7IESdzixzuqeAYfQCLcB/s640/DSC02471_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Few of the original structures remain standing. The large amount of collapsed stone block covered by moss created a serene but desolate impression of this complex.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-njuUmHDcNQk/WFkor9q8JII/AAAAAAAAKD0/gfi-x9xfs3Mn5irbKIkhlapO4PgHv_AOQCLcB/s1600/DSC02480_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-njuUmHDcNQk/WFkor9q8JII/AAAAAAAAKD0/gfi-x9xfs3Mn5irbKIkhlapO4PgHv_AOQCLcB/s640/DSC02480_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bkG9bnZbZ9E/WFkouH_62JI/AAAAAAAAKD4/MyNk1X4ZkYMGp4_OqitVJsmc4bwX-OhzACLcB/s1600/DSC02490_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bkG9bnZbZ9E/WFkouH_62JI/AAAAAAAAKD4/MyNk1X4ZkYMGp4_OqitVJsmc4bwX-OhzACLcB/s640/DSC02490_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Panorama of Beng Mealea
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KyGV2paN3ww/WFkpLulehYI/AAAAAAAAKEU/rgbcHIVKpDosUEGA9CnJHCh8EN3J_NKcwCLcB/s1600/Beng_Mealea_Panorama_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KyGV2paN3ww/WFkpLulehYI/AAAAAAAAKEU/rgbcHIVKpDosUEGA9CnJHCh8EN3J_NKcwCLcB/s640/Beng_Mealea_Panorama_post.jpg" width="640" height="138" /></a>
<p>
We spent almost 2 hours at this complex and soon we were losing light for good photography. On the way back to the hotel, we passed by many street side vendors. We asked Keo to stop at a couple of them.
<p>
We saw many stalls that sold coconut rice with black soy beans roasted inside bamboo.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0dyTQ4JPu1U/WFkov5RrXbI/AAAAAAAAKD8/OCS0MVkzBFgAiJUsbctEGVomHqAFl7iqgCLcB/s1600/DSC02496_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0dyTQ4JPu1U/WFkov5RrXbI/AAAAAAAAKD8/OCS0MVkzBFgAiJUsbctEGVomHqAFl7iqgCLcB/s640/DSC02496_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
You would pull the bamboo back in strips until the rice is revealed. Delicious! It's slightly sweet and not at all savory. We got 3 for $2 USD.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--iJ8e9n4ci0/WFkow5zryxI/AAAAAAAAKEA/TXgLASpyVUsFTfJu8jK-U0AVlYtJ5ozCwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0382_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--iJ8e9n4ci0/WFkow5zryxI/AAAAAAAAKEA/TXgLASpyVUsFTfJu8jK-U0AVlYtJ5ozCwCLcB/s640/IMG_0382_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
There were also stalls that sold grilled frogs. These can only be found in the country side. The frogs were cleaned and the abdominal cavity was stuffed with spices including a lot of lemongrass. They were $1 USD for a pair of frogs.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LVNHqdKSNQQ/WFkoygQA1WI/AAAAAAAAKEE/dmbh0HxKyvoDN45ZKDxcoWuLnfy0vnq2ACLcB/s1600/DSC02500_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LVNHqdKSNQQ/WFkoygQA1WI/AAAAAAAAKEE/dmbh0HxKyvoDN45ZKDxcoWuLnfy0vnq2ACLcB/s640/DSC02500_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Two frogs each were not enough. We could have eaten the whole stall worth of frogs!
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FoTfGsWaEs8/WFkoz6EOTXI/AAAAAAAAKEI/LkVNyD_gOzoNOBFtuR3CNcAqLqZS3lZZACLcB/s1600/DSC02503_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FoTfGsWaEs8/WFkoz6EOTXI/AAAAAAAAKEI/LkVNyD_gOzoNOBFtuR3CNcAqLqZS3lZZACLcB/s640/DSC02503_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
With our stomachs partially filled, my sister and I took a stroll along the main street. Happily, we found another food stall that sold sausages, pig ears, pig faces, pork jerky and duck.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z7FClQ81tBc/WFko1lmNbRI/AAAAAAAAKEM/hGKhqlWXiHMfxDyqDY5m-RO0n1VXhgQ2wCLcB/s1600/IMG_0388_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z7FClQ81tBc/WFko1lmNbRI/AAAAAAAAKEM/hGKhqlWXiHMfxDyqDY5m-RO0n1VXhgQ2wCLcB/s640/IMG_0388_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
My sister and I love ducks.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wXAG6LS6PHU/WFkqfiBcLVI/AAAAAAAAKEk/pRIq482SppwfIK688XN82qWLxU-cQcXdQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0390_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wXAG6LS6PHU/WFkqfiBcLVI/AAAAAAAAKEk/pRIq482SppwfIK688XN82qWLxU-cQcXdQCLcB/s640/IMG_0390_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Our room was phenomenal for $20/night. The internet was so dependent that I actually was able to work on an assignment online. We had another long day tomorrow so we didn't stay up too late.MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-71637856115348650342016-11-16T13:24:00.000-05:002016-12-17T14:31:55.754-05:002016 Asia - Bali (Day 7)This was our last day on Bali. After getting back to the hotel at 10:30pm, it was hard to get up at 5:30am. However, we wanted to get to Pura Besakih early.
<p>
I've read that locals pester tourists a lot at Pura Besakih. Some local would ask tourists to pay for a guide fee, only to be asked yet again by another local further along for a guide fee. Other locals would insist that you are required to make donations with money going into their own pocket. There were also a lot of people selling all kinds of good. In the past few years, the locals with these poor business practices had made the temple unpopular with many tourists, but large groups of tourists still arrive by buses each day.
<p>
We arrived at Pura Besakih just before 7:30pm. It was so early that the shop that sells entrance tickets wasn't even open. Gusti provided us sarongs and sashes so that we didn't have to rent them, and he taught us how to put them on.
<p>
The tranquil and peaceful setting was exactly what we had hoped for. It was definitely worth waking up early for it.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1JG023jwupo/WEmlcAlFStI/AAAAAAAAKAg/wxPLB5yElpY7Qmjq4H6KngbsxFaxQMx9wCLcB/s1600/DSC02175_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1JG023jwupo/WEmlcAlFStI/AAAAAAAAKAg/wxPLB5yElpY7Qmjq4H6KngbsxFaxQMx9wCLcB/s640/DSC02175_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W0Z_UI5QO_Q/WEmlc8NU5kI/AAAAAAAAKAo/afYnI8CoHR8wDDV4SYZ7qmrJHUUzd3_qQCLcB/s1600/DSC02184_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W0Z_UI5QO_Q/WEmlc8NU5kI/AAAAAAAAKAo/afYnI8CoHR8wDDV4SYZ7qmrJHUUzd3_qQCLcB/s640/DSC02184_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
The temple complex was divided into different sections. Different class worship and build pagodas in separate areas. However, Pura Besakih has a main area where all people regardless of class can worship. Balinese were celebrating a religious event that occurred once every 50 years. The temple areas were prepared for this event.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PrQ1sN1pEb4/WEmlzyLYNhI/AAAAAAAAKAw/acvs9PgwzK8navIz2F7DVXMSBWqjyRRhQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0249_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PrQ1sN1pEb4/WEmlzyLYNhI/AAAAAAAAKAw/acvs9PgwzK8navIz2F7DVXMSBWqjyRRhQCLcB/s640/IMG_0249_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
While the temple was quiet during our visit, in another hour these stairs would be full of locals and tourists alike.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gTPtgMrA1cU/WEmlcQlf15I/AAAAAAAAKAk/PdBtTiKBBacd2ds6BdsckDu8DQm805DJACLcB/s1600/DSC02191_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gTPtgMrA1cU/WEmlcQlf15I/AAAAAAAAKAk/PdBtTiKBBacd2ds6BdsckDu8DQm805DJACLcB/s640/DSC02191_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_udPG9O0NXs/WEmleqh9EJI/AAAAAAAAKAs/lvM0_B9xQU4EPUd9olg51lFKPMDsniHIACLcB/s1600/DSC02212_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_udPG9O0NXs/WEmleqh9EJI/AAAAAAAAKAs/lvM0_B9xQU4EPUd9olg51lFKPMDsniHIACLcB/s640/DSC02212_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
After an hour at Pura Besakih, we headed north toward Mount Batur. While we were not hiking Mount Batur, we still wanted to see the volcano. It was cloudy with light rain when we arrived. With a little patience, we waited for the clouds to move through and eventually thinned enough for a brief glimpse of the summit. After this picture, the summit was covered again. It was rainy season after all and it was a good decision not to hike the volcano.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sSCEpevx8PY/WEmmFsNDh8I/AAAAAAAAKA0/B-4AhrjhCYcjuRmRX_JQ6dEtCSlc31FWwCLcB/s1600/Batur_Panorama_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sSCEpevx8PY/WEmmFsNDh8I/AAAAAAAAKA0/B-4AhrjhCYcjuRmRX_JQ6dEtCSlc31FWwCLcB/s640/Batur_Panorama_post.jpg" width="640" height="192" /></a>
<p>
We had time remaining on our tour, so Gusti took us to Taman Kerta Gosa, the Balinese royal court of justice, in Klungkung. Although the ground was idyllic now, Gusti told us that convicts received severe punishments for their crimes such as death sentences for the crime of theft. During the Dutch colonial conquest of Bali, the palace at Klungkung was destroyed. The royal count was part of the palace complex and it was the only part of the palace that was not destroyed.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tKnnin3h7mQ/WEmnVQgMFhI/AAAAAAAAKBQ/fqPThL8ozXQwwlnJfSjR1qsGZGLS1rMxACLcB/s1600/DSC02253_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tKnnin3h7mQ/WEmnVQgMFhI/AAAAAAAAKBQ/fqPThL8ozXQwwlnJfSjR1qsGZGLS1rMxACLcB/s640/DSC02253_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3aIzUXTofDo/WEmmSFZ2mvI/AAAAAAAAKA4/LdiBLDfQj5E9yny2U7raDhqqeS21fD7iQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0271_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3aIzUXTofDo/WEmmSFZ2mvI/AAAAAAAAKA4/LdiBLDfQj5E9yny2U7raDhqqeS21fD7iQCLcB/s640/IMG_0271_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h4f_RE8AKbk/WEmmUHX3h2I/AAAAAAAAKBA/g9qwmiN4ZLIQkDwWhfEMW_E4XX_TWpkhACLcB/s1600/IMG_0275_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h4f_RE8AKbk/WEmmUHX3h2I/AAAAAAAAKBA/g9qwmiN4ZLIQkDwWhfEMW_E4XX_TWpkhACLcB/s640/IMG_0275_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5pcY2q2anDk/WEmmUUti-rI/AAAAAAAAKA8/Ju6lgWe01WQNfq0xyj-ACCKuDFiiCNF0gCLcB/s1600/IMG_0276_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5pcY2q2anDk/WEmmUUti-rI/AAAAAAAAKA8/Ju6lgWe01WQNfq0xyj-ACCKuDFiiCNF0gCLcB/s640/IMG_0276_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Gusti drove us back to the hotel by 11am just in time for lunch. My sister and I were eagerly waiting for the delicious meal to come. Bebek betutu (bebek = duck) is a traditional ceremonial Balinese dish. In this version of the dish, our duck was stuffed with a spice mix consisted of lemongrass, shallots, garlic, tumeric, ginger, wild ginger, chili peppers, shrimp paste and peanuts. The duck was then slow roasted for hours.
<p>
Once there was a bebek betutu.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gFOkNA3esz4/WEmmgeioYLI/AAAAAAAAKBE/52V1mAJmauUNApEDJthHwbKv-4aQg0zWgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0285_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gFOkNA3esz4/WEmmgeioYLI/AAAAAAAAKBE/52V1mAJmauUNApEDJthHwbKv-4aQg0zWgCLcB/s640/IMG_0285_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
It met two hungry travelers.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bGg7bKCJmjc/WEmmhAFckhI/AAAAAAAAKBI/XhPjx02TacsBI_x3H5DoSV1LtTGnPrwwQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0287_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bGg7bKCJmjc/WEmmhAFckhI/AAAAAAAAKBI/XhPjx02TacsBI_x3H5DoSV1LtTGnPrwwQCLcB/s640/IMG_0287_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
The end.
<p>
I highly recommend it!
<p>
After our meal, we took our time to pack and check out of the hotel. It was another two hours to the airport and my sister and I passed out in the car due to food coma. We caught our flight on time without any issue and arrived in Kuala Lumpur at 8pm. We were still full after the huge lunch meal and didn't even bother to grab a bit before we went to bed.MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-1752706190060113702016-11-15T12:27:00.000-05:002016-12-17T11:31:50.955-05:002016 Asia - Bali (Day 6)On our original itinerary, we arranged a day time hike on Mount Batur. However, since the hike would take place during the hottest part of the day, neither my sister and I thought it was a good idea. Instead, we modified the itinerary and split our full day sightseeing tour into an afternoon tour and an addition morning tour the next day.
<p>
I had a morning worth of free time. Instead of returning to the pier, I decided to fish at the hotel to see if there were any micros to be caught.
<p>
There were indeed a lot of small Goby species in the depressions along the breakwall. However, they were not keen on small pieces of squid, and any sudden movement spooked them into the rocks.
<p>
There were some Damselfish by the breakwall. A few of them were guarding rocks. These were usually the ones that would bite if the piece of squid was placed close to the rock.
<p>
Onespot Demoiselle (Chrysiptera unimaculata) - Species #686
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N74DlPYkMSM/WFVW82-KQAI/AAAAAAAAKCo/-JaK5Mem_5gn3U1MBm-iDWND3hBx35NHQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0188_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N74DlPYkMSM/WFVW82-KQAI/AAAAAAAAKCo/-JaK5Mem_5gn3U1MBm-iDWND3hBx35NHQCLcB/s640/IMG_0188_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
There were some small Wrasse species around, but there did not want to bite. Meanwhile, Indo-Pacific Sergeant Major kept me at least interested with the occasional bite. I've also never met a Pufferfish that didn't want squid. Fish at this breakwall seemed extremely shy.
<p>
While I was poking around the rocks, I noticed a small white Moray Eel. It was the smallest Moray I've even seen - barely the thickness of a pencil and about 8" only. I downsized to a #20 hook and 4lb fluoro. On the first attempt, it bit and pulled my line back under its lair and I was stuck. When I finally freed the snag, I tried for another 15 minutes to see if it would bite again. However, the Moray was not interested anymore.
<p>
The one species was all I managed by the time I had breakfast with my sister at 9:30am. After breakfast, I caught up on a little bit of course work that I had ignored for the past few days. I had an excuse before since we didn't have WiFi in the Komodo area. But I can't put it off any longer now that we have consistent WiFi.
<p>
My sister had a quick small bite and then it was time for our tour at 12pm. It would require an hour of driving to reach our first location at Tegalalang. While the morning was sunny and pleasant, cloud started to build around 12pm. The further we moved from Candidasa, the thicker the cloud became. Eventually, it started to rain.
<p>
As we passed by rice fields, many of them had been cut. Rice should not be harvested when they were wet, so while it rained, local women sifted the rice under shelter.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_az6-ZXc6-g/WEmTBu94YSI/AAAAAAAAJ-8/4BZadUVvnjc38ZdHiP43hoHhVwT3M64UgCLcB/s1600/DSC01854_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_az6-ZXc6-g/WEmTBu94YSI/AAAAAAAAJ-8/4BZadUVvnjc38ZdHiP43hoHhVwT3M64UgCLcB/s640/DSC01854_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We arrived at the rice paddies at Tegalalang. This was a UNESCO site recommended by many to visit. We wanted to take our time to walk the paddies, but it was simply pouring monsoon rain. Instead, our driver took us to a little cafe next to the rice paddy. Those who have traveled with me know I love a busy and tight schedule. Well, it was nice to actually kick back and relax for once. When we saw the price of $3 USD for the coffee, we thought it was the price for a cup so my sister and I ordered one each. They brought two pots of coffee and each pot had 3 cups worth. Needless to say, we took the time to enjoy plenty of wonderful coffee with a fantastic view of the rice paddy. We also ordered a black rice and coconut pudding that went really well with the coffee.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wsnWrnVpvdM/WEmTCu1uMaI/AAAAAAAAJ_A/LiBZxUE1U6oeE6-23eOdGEhBkjKNUc95wCLcB/s1600/DSC01864_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wsnWrnVpvdM/WEmTCu1uMaI/AAAAAAAAJ_A/LiBZxUE1U6oeE6-23eOdGEhBkjKNUc95wCLcB/s640/DSC01864_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
After an hour and a half, the rain became light enough that allowed us to walk around. The rice paddy was much too muddy to walk into, so we stayed by the road and took some photos.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jROVU-pyzEg/WEmUZa6WpKI/AAAAAAAAJ_M/V16e2ds2go8eg6EoN32-0TNsiLcLFBp4ACLcB/s1600/Tegallalang_Panorama_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jROVU-pyzEg/WEmUZa6WpKI/AAAAAAAAJ_M/V16e2ds2go8eg6EoN32-0TNsiLcLFBp4ACLcB/s640/Tegallalang_Panorama_post.jpg" width="640" height="170" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iRm0X0zyoHE/WEmVXq7RdaI/AAAAAAAAJ_Q/Oh_iQn6I2Y0q9p4o5Bn8J2TnALjoH3oQwCLcB/s1600/Tegallalang_Panorama_1_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iRm0X0zyoHE/WEmVXq7RdaI/AAAAAAAAJ_Q/Oh_iQn6I2Y0q9p4o5Bn8J2TnALjoH3oQwCLcB/s640/Tegallalang_Panorama_1_post.jpg" width="640" height="192" /></a>
<p>
Due to the rain, we decided to cancel our visit to the Ubud Monkey Forest. Our driver said the rain would push the monkeys back into the forest anyways and we won't see any. Speaking of our driver, Gusti, we were really fortunate to have him. He was a local to Ubud who used to work for one of the prince of Ubud. He started as a boy preparing offering for the prince and later on accompanied the prince and served as a driver. He had many interesting stories to tell and he knew the area extremely well. Instead of taking the congested main road, he took us around some of the back roads with little traffic and we had a glimpse of local life and local hangouts. We also passed by our driver's wood workshop where he had craftsman carving pieced of art and doors out of local wood.
<p>
When we arrived at Puri Saren Agung, it was raining again. We took shelter at a quiet corner of the royal palace while Gusti told us story working at the palace. The royal palace was build by the king of Ubud. There were three courtyards for the kings three sons. While two of the princes family had moved from the palace to other residences and use the palace occasionally, one prince remained at the palace. Thus, much of the palace was off limits to visitors. Gusti spoke about some of the changes that had happened over the years, and some of the diplomats and celebrities that had stayed at the Palace when there were eight guest rooms available.
<p>
We only had a couple of short breaks from the rain to take a couple of hurried photos before the rain started again.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1vWAGyy8Cj8/WEmVgLZFrWI/AAAAAAAAJ_Y/JNGguI9BarkULJY89djTeLCNcsYZ-s9dQCLcB/s1600/DSC01902_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1vWAGyy8Cj8/WEmVgLZFrWI/AAAAAAAAJ_Y/JNGguI9BarkULJY89djTeLCNcsYZ-s9dQCLcB/s640/DSC01902_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Peering into the royal residences which access was restricted, even for Gusti.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TICF0OBRPvA/WEmViw7hi7I/AAAAAAAAJ_c/QvD_pS-uP8YvarwY1jxU_Exf4H0vDSDYgCLcB/s1600/DSC01919_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TICF0OBRPvA/WEmViw7hi7I/AAAAAAAAJ_c/QvD_pS-uP8YvarwY1jxU_Exf4H0vDSDYgCLcB/s640/DSC01919_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Hindu carvings
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OKC-cFxP3Qg/WEmVjLECxUI/AAAAAAAAJ_g/rJs8xFXNlTQBorzbbmxWZvjetmx64--QQCLcB/s1600/DSC01939_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OKC-cFxP3Qg/WEmVjLECxUI/AAAAAAAAJ_g/rJs8xFXNlTQBorzbbmxWZvjetmx64--QQCLcB/s640/DSC01939_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
One of the son was building a new palace compound across the road. Few people visit this area and it was great to walk about on the grounds on our own.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ze-BhDeSUvU/WEmVkzSZT0I/AAAAAAAAJ_k/bZrKHss-yJkVyzZe416Yij29-2cfOJVHwCLcB/s1600/DSC01947_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ze-BhDeSUvU/WEmVkzSZT0I/AAAAAAAAJ_k/bZrKHss-yJkVyzZe416Yij29-2cfOJVHwCLcB/s640/DSC01947_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ivpgKspaDpc/WEmXHOGG1xI/AAAAAAAAKAI/UDN6UESetX0HkMv_oFpcXOVVbp4_3QXzgCLcB/s1600/DSC01965_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ivpgKspaDpc/WEmXHOGG1xI/AAAAAAAAKAI/UDN6UESetX0HkMv_oFpcXOVVbp4_3QXzgCLcB/s640/DSC01965_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9JjJc2grGxw/WEmVmEQwm1I/AAAAAAAAJ_o/LplbfRoz4bMTEfZUkApT5lThd4ix9Ae_wCLcB/s1600/DSC01969_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9JjJc2grGxw/WEmVmEQwm1I/AAAAAAAAJ_o/LplbfRoz4bMTEfZUkApT5lThd4ix9Ae_wCLcB/s640/DSC01969_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
After our palace tour, we had about 45min of free time before our next event. My sister and I grabbed a quick bite at a restaurant and ordered a couple of cucumber lime juice and a mixed Balinese plate. The vegetable fritters were so good that we asked for an extra order at the end.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dBcRVW2wlXo/WEmVnGQ-9UI/AAAAAAAAJ_s/akoamo5_cRkLKfhuZm76Ay8Rba3Sl8t-gCLcB/s1600/DSC01972_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dBcRVW2wlXo/WEmVnGQ-9UI/AAAAAAAAJ_s/akoamo5_cRkLKfhuZm76Ay8Rba3Sl8t-gCLcB/s640/DSC01972_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Finally, it was time for our evening event. Balinese dance performance is held on the palace ground normally, but due to the rain it was held at a theater adjacent to the palace. There is a different style and story each day of the week. On this day, there were two stories in our performance. The first story spoke of two princes who had a conflict but later reconciled. It was interesting that princes in these traditional dances were dressed rather feminine and portrayed by female dancers.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lVozuaZJTs0/WEmVpMXASII/AAAAAAAAJ_w/gfoEoDgSmCkJPhdiXBIccK5oCa64bWBGACLcB/s1600/DSC02038_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lVozuaZJTs0/WEmVpMXASII/AAAAAAAAJ_w/gfoEoDgSmCkJPhdiXBIccK5oCa64bWBGACLcB/s640/DSC02038_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
The second story was about a king to asked a deity to help him lure a princess into marriage. The deity turned himself into a golden fawn to lure the princess while her brothers elicit the help of a White Monkey deity to rescue the princess.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YKx5Lc1ixTo/WEmVrWolZjI/AAAAAAAAJ_0/uCRk5Zb11KAZskLPaiokDO6ds7uT6GTZgCLcB/s1600/DSC02057_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YKx5Lc1ixTo/WEmVrWolZjI/AAAAAAAAJ_0/uCRk5Zb11KAZskLPaiokDO6ds7uT6GTZgCLcB/s640/DSC02057_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mPyNeklEIE8/WEmVtu3A0nI/AAAAAAAAJ_4/IrY1uOp6GbQRD9tINRFOYpS7tnwtPKIJQCLcB/s1600/DSC02065_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mPyNeklEIE8/WEmVtu3A0nI/AAAAAAAAJ_4/IrY1uOp6GbQRD9tINRFOYpS7tnwtPKIJQCLcB/s640/DSC02065_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--XbEhIsBQgc/WEmVvIzS4MI/AAAAAAAAJ_8/n-qk5kj_VqQjPjn9cAqBhHlFMjR5Bi42QCLcB/s1600/DSC02066_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--XbEhIsBQgc/WEmVvIzS4MI/AAAAAAAAJ_8/n-qk5kj_VqQjPjn9cAqBhHlFMjR5Bi42QCLcB/s640/DSC02066_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wl5uYyYJu5A/WEmVwywle2I/AAAAAAAAKAA/IiZ8bucIyn4qcvAIhsKfWwIk-DdanWHKQCLcB/s1600/DSC02080_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wl5uYyYJu5A/WEmVwywle2I/AAAAAAAAKAA/IiZ8bucIyn4qcvAIhsKfWwIk-DdanWHKQCLcB/s640/DSC02080_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
It was 9pm when the performance ended. Gusti drove us back to the hotel and we would meet again at 6am the next morning for the morning tour.
MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-46457371543519287682016-11-14T11:48:00.000-05:002016-12-17T10:05:47.461-05:002016 Asia - Bali (Day 5)We had an 8am flight from Labuan Bajo to Bali. Although the airport at Labuan Bajo only receives a few flights a day, we arrived early at the airport nonetheless. We had some fried bananas and potatoes for breakfast and tok advantage of the WiFi at the gate to backup photos and catch up emails.
<p>
Upon arriving at the airport, we went to the money changer immediately. For some reason, all the ATM machines around the port strip in Labuan Bajo were out of order, and we were down to just a 100,000 IDRs in our pockets (that's equivalent to $10 USD). Thankfully, the money changer were not only open but offered great rates.
<p>
Next, we arranged a taxi to take up from Ngurah Rai International Airport to our hotel in Candidasa (pronounced as "chan-di-da-sa"). Candidasa is about 2 hours drive from the airport if there's no traffic. The reason I picked this little coastal town is to avoid the crazy amount of tourists (and traffic) in Kuta or Ubud. Even during the low season, we saw a lot of people and cars all over Ubud. Prices for hotels were cheaper and meals were about the same in Candidasa. There were a lot of affordable seaside hotels.
<p>
My sister and I caught up on sleep in the car and it felt like in no time we had arrived.
<p>
We booked one of the chalets in D'Tunjung Resort and Spa for $50 USD a night. In Asia, you can usually get a lot for that amount of money. However, Bali is known to be a more expensive destination so $50 doesn't actually buy you much.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r3LZ_FrMDyw/WEmPIvJL5GI/AAAAAAAAJ-c/cJO1S5LCwnsCWGMhHY5uqT3jJFN18QnGwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0167_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r3LZ_FrMDyw/WEmPIvJL5GI/AAAAAAAAJ-c/cJO1S5LCwnsCWGMhHY5uqT3jJFN18QnGwCLcB/s640/IMG_0167_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Still, we had a spacious chalet with mosquito netting. Originally, I had booked two double beds. I'm not sure what happened but we ended up with only one queen bed. Oh well.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xAT4O3xQtd4/WEmjsE8ulJI/AAAAAAAAKAU/vxWSHFRNdS0XgW_fWp6TLEd0EXRITehIACLcB/s1600/IMG_0281_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xAT4O3xQtd4/WEmjsE8ulJI/AAAAAAAAKAU/vxWSHFRNdS0XgW_fWp6TLEd0EXRITehIACLcB/s640/IMG_0281_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
The interesting thing about this hotel is the outdoor bath suite. Initially, I gave my sister two hotel options and she picked this hotel. I thought she might have an issue with the outdoor bath suite, but she actually loved it.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s7tM8_YirR0/WEmjtBdwI-I/AAAAAAAAKAY/zd42D1kkvcsTc2fM2xcDshPPBqzGk3vIACLcB/s1600/IMG_0282_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s7tM8_YirR0/WEmjtBdwI-I/AAAAAAAAKAY/zd42D1kkvcsTc2fM2xcDshPPBqzGk3vIACLcB/s640/IMG_0282_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
It was already 11am and we were both hungry. We decided to eat in at the hotel's restaurant for lunch since it was getting a little too hot to walk around town.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jykBcoVmcTY/WEmPIpIs-JI/AAAAAAAAJ-Y/cMfuliKe-EMoERWOXSwg2jdeWtfSceLFgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0168_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jykBcoVmcTY/WEmPIpIs-JI/AAAAAAAAJ-Y/cMfuliKe-EMoERWOXSwg2jdeWtfSceLFgCLcB/s640/IMG_0168_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Ayam curry (again, ayam = chicken)
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IOXR8YJmxmw/WEmPGxtCmSI/AAAAAAAAJ-U/yr2kM4JrGYg70fJYeXo6663za8RfFMY2QCLcB/s1600/IMG_0169_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IOXR8YJmxmw/WEmPGxtCmSI/AAAAAAAAJ-U/yr2kM4JrGYg70fJYeXo6663za8RfFMY2QCLcB/s640/IMG_0169_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Sate lilit (minced fish with coconut, lime, lemongrass, shallot and a little bit of hot pepper)
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-csvP_i7mhQs/WEmPKFLDBvI/AAAAAAAAJ-g/cGA4Vb9BSJEDuN23CtIk45gm3f_A4mu5wCLcB/s1600/IMG_0170_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-csvP_i7mhQs/WEmPKFLDBvI/AAAAAAAAJ-g/cGA4Vb9BSJEDuN23CtIk45gm3f_A4mu5wCLcB/s640/IMG_0170_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
After lunch, we took care of some much needed laundry chores. With the afternoon free, my sister went for a spa while I arranged a ride to a nearby pier. I asked my driver to take me to a store where I can buy some shrimp or squid for bait. Unfortunately, after checking 4 stores, none of them carried any kind of seafood, fresh or frozen. I did get a loaf of white bread just in case. At the end, I had to visit a restaurant to buy some 3 pieces of overpriced squid. The price on shrimp was just ridiculous and I refused to pay $10 USD for 4 pieces of shrimp.
<p>
On the way to the pier, we passed by some rice paddy. I wonder if there were any freshwater species to be had, but the field was only flooded with an inch of water.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-99kjn_myTwQ/WEmPMhCR2WI/AAAAAAAAJ-k/d_Hcz_RyycAYMq-2QmzrWrZ0n-RP0McaACLcB/s1600/IMG_0171_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-99kjn_myTwQ/WEmPMhCR2WI/AAAAAAAAJ-k/d_Hcz_RyycAYMq-2QmzrWrZ0n-RP0McaACLcB/s640/IMG_0171_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
There were a couple of guys at the foot of the pier. I was asked to pay 50,000 IDR to access the pier, while other locals simply walked in. Locals try to milk tourists as much as possible on Bali. This is just another example of it.
<p>
I picked this pier because there were videos showing people catch Kawakawa Tuna, Narrow-barred Spanish Mackerel, Amberjack, Mahimahi and even Sailfish off the end of this pier. However, on this day, I didn't even see a single predator chase the bait school. However, the pier was completely packed, shoulder-to-shoulder with people, who fished the sabiki rig for the baitfish. I didn't even want to bother combat fishing in that mess. So I found a quiet little corner and started dropping small strips of squid on the sabiki rig. From watching diving videos taken at this pier, there were a few species of Filefishes to be caught and they were my primary target. Frogfishes and Scorpionfishes were also very common, so I focused my effort mostly on the bottom.
<p>
My sabiki was immediately met with lots of tiny bites. Eventually, I caught a Moon Wrasse. Strangely, after the Moon Wrasse was hooked, all the small bites stopped. I fished larger strips of squid on another rod with any bites at all.
<p>
I relocated a few pylons down the pier and again found no bites. I tied a mini dropper loop rig with 4lb fluoro and #14 hooks thinking the fish were line shy. However, I continued to receive no bites.
<p>
So I tied on a 4lb fluoro leader with #20 hook and freelined small pieces of bread to the bottom. My bread wasn't even getting bitten off. This is not looking good.
<p>
Eventually, I tied on a sliding sinker rig and cast away from the pier. After a number of casts, I finally got a small bite and pulled up a new species.
<p>
Oceanic Puffer (Lagocephalus lagocephalus) - Species #684
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wZiHR4UqW6g/WEmPMp5lEsI/AAAAAAAAJ-o/AZcIvX-KnNAuE9LgELTfNM1Mad4vPWMxQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0173_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wZiHR4UqW6g/WEmPMp5lEsI/AAAAAAAAJ-o/AZcIvX-KnNAuE9LgELTfNM1Mad4vPWMxQCLcB/s640/IMG_0173_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Fishing the sliding sinker rig down the pier as I go, I did get another bite. It was getting close to dusk so I started to work my way back to the base of the pier. I was just at the end of the retrieve on one cast when I felt a couple of good taps. The fish managed to pulled the strip of squid off my hook, so I rebaited and dropped it down again. Luckily, I got bit again and pulled up another new species.
<p>
Common Bluestripe Snapper (Lutjanus kasmira) - Species #685
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-deaUhskzA2g/WEmP-wnVW_I/AAAAAAAAJ-w/AKJC-2GESe06mMgTMUhniJIEogfN1Y8uACLcB/s1600/IMG_0178_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-deaUhskzA2g/WEmP-wnVW_I/AAAAAAAAJ-w/AKJC-2GESe06mMgTMUhniJIEogfN1Y8uACLcB/s640/IMG_0178_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Unfortunately, either that was a loner fish or the school had moved off, I didn't get another bite after. It was now getting dark and it was time for me to get off the pier. My driver returned to pick me up at 7pm and took me back to the hotel.
<p>
The round trip ride cost $25 USD. In addition to the entrance fee and bait, this afternoon of fishing for 4 hours cost me about $40 USD. I had planned for another day of fishing at this pier but at end I didn't feel 3 bites after 4 hours of fishing justified that cost. In hindsight, I could have caught more fish and more species if I had taken one of the fishing charter on a jukung for $35 USD for 4 hours of fishing.
<p>
My sister and I went to a warung just outside of our hotel for dinner. The food was pretty good and the price was decent at $7-8 USD per plate. Everything in Bali was just that much more expensive by SE Asia standard.
<p>
Sate Ayam
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rp1tjPLFS5o/WEmPPHcYNnI/AAAAAAAAJ-s/KrwW9WO5etEDuvT-_Mr5-TKkEI_zK-vTwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0181_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rp1tjPLFS5o/WEmPPHcYNnI/AAAAAAAAJ-s/KrwW9WO5etEDuvT-_Mr5-TKkEI_zK-vTwCLcB/s640/IMG_0181_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Tamarind pork
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ftfu11BwjfU/WEmQS51B9rI/AAAAAAAAJ-0/B0bHX8SdWR0o5WxxMZBoJB7FIxcgKv1dACLcB/s1600/IMG_0182_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ftfu11BwjfU/WEmQS51B9rI/AAAAAAAAJ-0/B0bHX8SdWR0o5WxxMZBoJB7FIxcgKv1dACLcB/s640/IMG_0182_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-82447487902550611182016-11-13T09:29:00.000-05:002016-12-17T07:18:10.994-05:002016 Asia - Komodo (Day 4)Have you ever experienced that sinking feeling at the end of a vacation? This was our last day at Komodo and I woke up with that feeling. Although our Southeast Asia trip was far from over, I was sad to leave the Komodo and there was a sinking feeling.
<p>
Taking advantage of our last day in the most biodiverse marine environment on Earth, I started fishing at 5:30am again. We were anchored on a shallow seagrass bed and I was hoping for some new species. I only had two bites before breakfast. Luckily, both were new species.
<p>
Grey Large-eye Bream (Gymnocranius griseus) - Species #676
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mVlBqLzyl2U/WEgdAzwmdjI/AAAAAAAAJ7I/PJ07hKLmoekBxWs-jmv0kCRM3IH61RzogCLcB/s1600/IMG_0087_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mVlBqLzyl2U/WEgdAzwmdjI/AAAAAAAAJ7I/PJ07hKLmoekBxWs-jmv0kCRM3IH61RzogCLcB/s640/IMG_0087_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Southeast Asian Blackstripe Dottyback (Pseudochromis perspicillatus) - Species #677
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4JvZmUtdZIE/WEgdArJW-mI/AAAAAAAAJ7E/WfX0FT8OI-IaACmaBYlQbGHc014rIhDZQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0089_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4JvZmUtdZIE/WEgdArJW-mI/AAAAAAAAJ7E/WfX0FT8OI-IaACmaBYlQbGHc014rIhDZQCLcB/s640/IMG_0089_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
After breakfast, we relocated to Palau Sebayur. It was roughly 45 minutes to Sebayur so I sent out the X-Rap Magnum. However, my trolling effort was completely ignored this morning.
<p>
On the original itinerary, I had scheduled almost a full day of fishing except for an hour snorkeling session at Kanawa Island on the way back to port. I was hoping to dedicate more fishing time at Sebayur.
<p>
Upon arrival, Beni chummed the water with bread. Unicornfish were soon starting to feed on the surface. They were line shy and I had to use 4lb fluoro leader to get bit. However, these Unicornfish were strong and snapped my 4lb leader after a short fight. Just as I was trying to adjust my gear to solve this issue, a dive boat arrived and I had to stop fishing. :(
<p>
Unable to fish, I decided to surrender some fishing time to snorkel with my sister. If you can't beat them, why not join them, right? I was actually really happy to have snorkeled this beach as it provided addition recon for the area. The shallow reef was astounding and there were species of Damselfish that I had only seen on this reef thus far. Unfortunately, our mooring was far enough from the shallow reef that I could not reach it with a cast. I did discover a lot of Honeycomb Grouper on the bottom. It was a species that I really wanted to catch.
<p>
After 45min, the divers left. We also returned to the boat and I quickly dropped my bait into the water. Another dive boat was approaching and I had only a 10 minute window to fish.
<p>
The first bit was a juvenile Two-spot Red Snapper that had me thinking it was a new species for a split second when it was in the water.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PSaOt9Stois/WEgc_hhQclI/AAAAAAAAJ7A/QMd-8etOw8cuuF3xm99_yWowcQue1v3XwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0094_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PSaOt9Stois/WEgc_hhQclI/AAAAAAAAJ7A/QMd-8etOw8cuuF3xm99_yWowcQue1v3XwCLcB/s640/IMG_0094_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Luckily, I was able to find my target species before I had to stop fishing.
<p>
Honeycomb Grouper (Epinephelus merra) - Species #678
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EewjLGZ-jgs/WEgdIBtb97I/AAAAAAAAJ7U/_LwnZJCUpy0QyfuXDuE7km9Ereza37NQQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0099_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EewjLGZ-jgs/WEgdIBtb97I/AAAAAAAAJ7U/_LwnZJCUpy0QyfuXDuE7km9Ereza37NQQCLcB/s640/IMG_0099_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
With the arrival of the new group of diver, and more boats arriving from a distance, we decided to move to another side of Sebayur. I tried to troll the X-Rap despite the short 15min relocation. Nothing wanted to bite though. We did observed a pod of dolphin feeding on schooling fish.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--5DJtAWUivs/WEgdCqfY8zI/AAAAAAAAJ7M/C1-BnJFRL5YGPvqhc7QPm_zBxO22bby9ACLcB/s1600/IMG_0108_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--5DJtAWUivs/WEgdCqfY8zI/AAAAAAAAJ7M/C1-BnJFRL5YGPvqhc7QPm_zBxO22bby9ACLcB/s640/IMG_0108_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We had this beautiful location all to ourselves.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dd43SXobTHA/WEmCswkz4qI/AAAAAAAAJ-E/T0ATKmnSLOw-WTYUarnnJ7YzvdJhMvkAgCLcB/s1600/Sebayur_Panorama_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dd43SXobTHA/WEmCswkz4qI/AAAAAAAAJ-E/T0ATKmnSLOw-WTYUarnnJ7YzvdJhMvkAgCLcB/s640/Sebayur_Panorama_post.jpg" width="640" height="192" /></a>
<p>
Unfortunately, the spot was plagued by Small-toothed Whiptail. They were biting every cast! It took at least a dozen fish until something different was on the line. Unfortunately, it was a species that I had already caught on the first day. This was just a large specimen.
<p>
Cheeklined Wrasse
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yihrMxReB5Y/WEgdFjFsApI/AAAAAAAAJ7Q/8bX-Bc2twoU2gTiT11fLibupxtOvImnpwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0116_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yihrMxReB5Y/WEgdFjFsApI/AAAAAAAAJ7Q/8bX-Bc2twoU2gTiT11fLibupxtOvImnpwCLcB/s640/IMG_0116_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
My sister wanted to fish again since so many Small-toothed Whiptail were biting. I baited the rod for her and cast it out. Just after I handed her the rod, she was bit. However, the fish was too strong for her and she did not know how to reel it in, so she handed the rod back to me. It was a good thing.
<p>
Red-toothed Triggerfish (Odonus niger) - Species #679
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jeHy34SChJg/WEgdJ1Dm3GI/AAAAAAAAJ7Y/8Wrah044wNUrI9IQ3St_LtXsWbfkZRSXACLcB/s1600/IMG_0118_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jeHy34SChJg/WEgdJ1Dm3GI/AAAAAAAAJ7Y/8Wrah044wNUrI9IQ3St_LtXsWbfkZRSXACLcB/s640/IMG_0118_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Fish on the reef bottom, Beni and I would get bit and then hang up. We suspected there were Grouper or Moray Eel below the boat. Finally, after breaking off 4 times, Beni landed a Darkfin Hind. It was a species I wanted to catch. I continued to be plagued by Whiptail no matter where I cast. Finally something different was hooked!
<p>
Ornate Emperor (Lethrinus ornatus) - Species #680
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c5ZSjLdS4rE/WEgdMfcZ3HI/AAAAAAAAJ7c/jT7bmhDB1_gfR67gff3IuDWHcsiyEACYgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0131_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c5ZSjLdS4rE/WEgdMfcZ3HI/AAAAAAAAJ7c/jT7bmhDB1_gfR67gff3IuDWHcsiyEACYgCLcB/s640/IMG_0131_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
I appeared we had thinned out the Whiptail school a bit. After Beni caught 3 more Darkfin Hind, I was finally able to catch one of my own.
<p>
Darkfin Hind (Cephalopholis urodeta) - Species #681
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5fl43QNIhuA/WEgdO2fbTkI/AAAAAAAAJ7g/v7G_7PLDByUPRizNI90P0Rk6bPTxh2k7ACLcB/s1600/IMG_0136_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5fl43QNIhuA/WEgdO2fbTkI/AAAAAAAAJ7g/v7G_7PLDByUPRizNI90P0Rk6bPTxh2k7ACLcB/s640/IMG_0136_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We fished until lunch and the Whiptail were prepared as fish soup. Unfortunately, we were hungry and the soup was consumed before the photo was taken LOL.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xuhtzqFQGg0/WEgdPLPR_DI/AAAAAAAAJ7k/LfvnOmBH2tAMu8a9P1joiubDPmiIaUXkgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0137_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xuhtzqFQGg0/WEgdPLPR_DI/AAAAAAAAJ7k/LfvnOmBH2tAMu8a9P1joiubDPmiIaUXkgCLcB/s640/IMG_0137_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
After lunch I had time to fish a little more. I was getting many small bites so I downsize my tackle a bit. I was able to find two really neat species before the tide changed.
<p>
Redbar Sandperch (Parapercis bimacula) - Species #682
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I8WoifqmDWs/WEgdQc9Zv1I/AAAAAAAAJ7o/sG6v5Qh7EZso83aBTZ60uXcK6yviAVF9wCLcB/s1600/IMG_0145_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I8WoifqmDWs/WEgdQc9Zv1I/AAAAAAAAJ7o/sG6v5Qh7EZso83aBTZ60uXcK6yviAVF9wCLcB/s640/IMG_0145_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Speckled Sandperch (Parapercis hexophtalma) - Species #683
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PT2o_YTUq1s/WEgdTulVqrI/AAAAAAAAJ7w/V3VFvVUxKZo8WrYNKG2zSVUFbbprKYpZwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0149_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PT2o_YTUq1s/WEgdTulVqrI/AAAAAAAAJ7w/V3VFvVUxKZo8WrYNKG2zSVUFbbprKYpZwCLcB/s640/IMG_0149_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Once the tide started to swing the current was too difficult to fish. The 2oz sinker wasn't holding on bottom and we decided to snorkel at Kanawa Island.
<p>
The water was murkier along the ledge due to the tide change. However, water visibility was great in the shallow reef. For the first time on this tirp, we actually swam up onto the beach and sat on the sand for a while.
<p>
I'm going to miss this fantastic corner of the Earth.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JwGO3PTLaoY/WEgdSLVQZOI/AAAAAAAAJ7s/2-Hdzmoxn8k29eLr6PiNPyqtW_suESXXACLcB/s1600/IMG_0157_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JwGO3PTLaoY/WEgdSLVQZOI/AAAAAAAAJ7s/2-Hdzmoxn8k29eLr6PiNPyqtW_suESXXACLcB/s640/IMG_0157_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
By 3pm, it was time to wrap up our trip. It would take an hour to travel back to Labuan Bajo. I did not troll back to port since I needed to pack all the belonging.
<p>
I was really sad to see port. Our time in the Komodo was so memorable on many levels that I really didn't want to leave.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b1CKI7cW4TU/WEgdVU2FZVI/AAAAAAAAJ70/Heq6CCT_q0geCztRzHugUPUzcXEwCigWwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0158_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b1CKI7cW4TU/WEgdVU2FZVI/AAAAAAAAJ70/Heq6CCT_q0geCztRzHugUPUzcXEwCigWwCLcB/s640/IMG_0158_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We were very efficient unloading and Beni delivered us and our gear to our hotel before 5pm. With nothing to do in our hotel room (not even WiFI), my sister and I decided to return to the port area to get some supplies, walk around and have dinner.
<p>
There were many warungs along the port strip
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N06_RYhLmg8/WEgdYeCVwtI/AAAAAAAAJ78/rxZqdhn8CrQ7qv5RQI42sMJ7j1YLLbyBQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0162_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N06_RYhLmg8/WEgdYeCVwtI/AAAAAAAAJ78/rxZqdhn8CrQ7qv5RQI42sMJ7j1YLLbyBQCLcB/s640/IMG_0162_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Eventually, we settled on a warung that served Ayam Soto (Ayam = Chicken, Soto = particular type of noodle soup). The entire meal only cost $2 each!
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j2P2CqtjAiE/WEgdY-O0v9I/AAAAAAAAJ8A/jnilNWAp3oYS1PoJsd2Y_zAMvErIp2Q7QCLcB/s1600/IMG_0165_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j2P2CqtjAiE/WEgdY-O0v9I/AAAAAAAAJ8A/jnilNWAp3oYS1PoJsd2Y_zAMvErIp2Q7QCLcB/s640/IMG_0165_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Labuan Bajo is still very much developing. During our meal, the port strip was hit with a rolling brown out. Some of the more well to do businesses were prepared with their own generators. Our warung owner plug his lights into his friend's generator. It's a reminder how fortunate we are to live in first world cities.
<p>
We had an early flight to Bali the next morning. After a much needed shower, we quickly fell asleep.MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-84886639755644288612016-11-12T09:22:00.000-05:002016-12-17T15:32:41.701-05:002016 Asia - Komodo (Day 3)<p>
I woke up at 5:30am and tired fishing around the boat. I only had one bite from a Yellow-tipped Threadfin Bream. Similar to last night, there were predators chasing bait in the mangroves, but the boat was anchored too far away. I tried to fish a lure around the boat but nothing came to play.
<p>
The crew was up at 6am. My sister and I decided to start the Komodo hike as early as 7:30am to take advantage of the cooler morning temperature. We had an early breakfast and then made a short move to the pier at Komodo Island. On the way, I saw a school of small Tuna surface feeding. I was trolling the X-Rap with wire and the small Tuna didn't want it. I didn't have enough time to rig the lighter rod with a small lure and fluoro leader to try for the Tuna. Oh well.
<p>
Once the boat was docked, I had about 30 minutes to fish. There were some Indo-Pacific Sergeant Major and other Damselfish around. However, most were too small to hook or too picky to bite. Luckily, I found a little fish propped vertically against a column that greedily gobbled up a small bait.
<p>
Spotted Hawkfish (Cirrhitichthys aprinus) - Species #663
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5srqq5Xylvg/WEgb0prk3II/AAAAAAAAJ6A/-F6Kz-XzyyYPrs45xtnNDfQMaVO9cFtwwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9803_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5srqq5Xylvg/WEgb0prk3II/AAAAAAAAJ6A/-F6Kz-XzyyYPrs45xtnNDfQMaVO9cFtwwCLcB/s640/IMG_9803_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Bluefin Trevally patrolled in a school of 4 to 5 individuals. There was also a Giant Trevally. However, these fish were found under the pier deep among the pylons. It would be almost impossible to pull them out if hooked. They seemed very intelligent since I did not once see any of them swim out of the pier.
<p>
Four other boats docked and soon we saw a few tour groups passed by. It was time to start out hike.
<p>
Komodo Island - welcome to Jurassic Park!
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bX89zfEIBY8/WEgb1rcPN_I/AAAAAAAAJ6E/ij-ZCBl0lh0IpIuLRGj_Qp_Zhc-1W-CLgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9807_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bX89zfEIBY8/WEgb1rcPN_I/AAAAAAAAJ6E/ij-ZCBl0lh0IpIuLRGj_Qp_Zhc-1W-CLgCLcB/s640/IMG_9807_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
The tour groups were organized as two large groups of 40 people. They were guided by two rangers. Beni arranged a separate ranger for my sister and I so we would not need to follow the large group. It will be an advantage later.
<p>
Just like Rinca Island, there were some Komodo dragon around the ranger buildings. This was an eight feet long male.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C58l0_OfUDs/WEgb4B_jUYI/AAAAAAAAJ6I/28JaUo9pCGQoZjL3piAang3yV1A91U7pwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9810_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C58l0_OfUDs/WEgb4B_jUYI/AAAAAAAAJ6I/28JaUo9pCGQoZjL3piAang3yV1A91U7pwCLcB/s640/IMG_9810_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We were slightly behind the large tour groups so we followed them initially. The trail took us to a waterhole where Komodo dragons often use the feature to ambush animals that come to drink. Around this water hole, we soon found another eight feet long male moving with intent. This was the most active Komodo dragon we saw. It was coming toward people constantly flicking its tongue while swinging its head from side to side. It was tasting something in the air and actively looking for food. We had to backing up to get out of its way multiple times.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R0eYFrpW7Es/WEgb5S4L8EI/AAAAAAAAJ6M/OxVC3JVgxvQYTt1TCcP7F3x4Pu1yDECOACLcB/s1600/IMG_9813_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R0eYFrpW7Es/WEgb5S4L8EI/AAAAAAAAJ6M/OxVC3JVgxvQYTt1TCcP7F3x4Pu1yDECOACLcB/s640/IMG_9813_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
It is not an animal you want to take lightly. This male had a white scarred area on its tail that was likely an injury sustained from fighting with another male.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tNV2DRZ4UJ8/WEl5LNQrLCI/AAAAAAAAJ9U/L8ozuRFsCJAriELLxkW7ZuB8D67rTQLHwCLcB/s1600/DSC01710_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tNV2DRZ4UJ8/WEl5LNQrLCI/AAAAAAAAJ9U/L8ozuRFsCJAriELLxkW7ZuB8D67rTQLHwCLcB/s640/DSC01710_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
The large tour group stayed with this dragon for a while. We decided to continue our hike. Our ranger took us to a side trail. A little down the trail, our ranger got very excited. We finally realized the reason the big male was moving about so intently. Our ranger found a six feet long Komodo dragon feeding on a deer kill!
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fT5_p-tTc9M/WEgb70vMVVI/AAAAAAAAJ6Q/dq0czDDFExc2FeODlprU_0bTehPqs5iUQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9837_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fT5_p-tTc9M/WEgb70vMVVI/AAAAAAAAJ6Q/dq0czDDFExc2FeODlprU_0bTehPqs5iUQCLcB/s640/IMG_9837_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rJ92vnwT8uI/WEgb-NncbEI/AAAAAAAAJ6U/uIXqO0_P2hMfV6YbabRfbi57JwiCtPUMwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9838_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rJ92vnwT8uI/WEgb-NncbEI/AAAAAAAAJ6U/uIXqO0_P2hMfV6YbabRfbi57JwiCtPUMwCLcB/s640/IMG_9838_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Some closer-up shots
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9-E2QZ2e848/WEgbXAsUi6I/AAAAAAAAJ44/sNb6mdeiFQgo07xbiytE6SNk9G-FbIovACLcB/s1600/DSC01733_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9-E2QZ2e848/WEgbXAsUi6I/AAAAAAAAJ44/sNb6mdeiFQgo07xbiytE6SNk9G-FbIovACLcB/s640/DSC01733_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mIxepG4wV48/WEgbVr4Z7pI/AAAAAAAAJ40/QOqOQrmS_HYgmMh7h0TrBxxxbDG7GoU4ACLcB/s1600/DSC01739_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mIxepG4wV48/WEgbVr4Z7pI/AAAAAAAAJ40/QOqOQrmS_HYgmMh7h0TrBxxxbDG7GoU4ACLcB/s640/DSC01739_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Komodo dragon may only feed once a month. Thus, it is very rare to find them on a kill. We were extremely fortunate to have witnessed this one with the deer kill. The large eight feet male was likely attracted to this kill, but it was still search for the kill's location. Other dragons in the area could also have sensed the kill and making their way to the area. Thus, while we took pictures and watched the feed, we were also on high alert for any approaching dragons that may suddenly appear.
<p>
Unfortuanly, after waiting for 15min, no other dragons appeared. At one point, a small wild pig came out of the tall grass almost directly in front of the deer kill. The feeding dragon lifted its head up and looked directly at the pig and there was a brief tension in the air. Lucky for the pig, our ranger made a commotion to scare the pig away. It could have become the next meal since the dragon appeared to be planning an attack.
<p>
Although we were certain other dragons were slowly searching for the kill, we had a tight schedule and decided not to stay to wait for the other dragons. We returned to the main trail and found the large tour group. Our ranger shared the location of the feeding dragon with the other rangers. Strangely, the other rangers did not bring their groups to the kill site. Lucky us!
<p>
Our ranger, Beni, my sister and I moved ahead of the large tour group as the group was slowly strolling through the forest. We hiked briskly but quietly to look for wildlife. We saw a couple more dragons along the way but did not take any photos since they were quite far off the trail.
<p>
Finally, we hiked out of the forested valley into the hilly savannah.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4VC7SPXrsRc/WEgcAVBGHQI/AAAAAAAAJ6Y/rNL7eqEZytAKkfvNG2wLi-zJ05BnPBG_wCLcB/s1600/IMG_9850_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4VC7SPXrsRc/WEgcAVBGHQI/AAAAAAAAJ6Y/rNL7eqEZytAKkfvNG2wLi-zJ05BnPBG_wCLcB/s640/IMG_9850_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We soon saw a dragon trail on the path. It appeared the dragons prefer to use the cleared foot path as well. Soon, we found this male under the shade of a tree.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E6WPWSjfw0k/WEgbb3CsGsI/AAAAAAAAJ5A/vHYOOxhVXHk-gkyXY6_v77lgrxSsUViVgCLcB/s1600/DSC01765_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E6WPWSjfw0k/WEgbb3CsGsI/AAAAAAAAJ5A/vHYOOxhVXHk-gkyXY6_v77lgrxSsUViVgCLcB/s640/DSC01765_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Beni told us to position our hands as if we were petting the dragon.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RuwqWrpeZDQ/WEgbaS_qwOI/AAAAAAAAJ48/yl_1cIe_RwAei_By6WTeIYntdD6-VycUgCLcB/s1600/DSC01768_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RuwqWrpeZDQ/WEgbaS_qwOI/AAAAAAAAJ48/yl_1cIe_RwAei_By6WTeIYntdD6-VycUgCLcB/s640/DSC01768_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We had about 5 minutes with this dragon until the tour group caught up. Everyone from that group wanted photo opportunity with this dragon so we decided to keep moving. We were always trying to keep one step ahead.
<p>
Perhaps our small group and quietness allowed us to see this buck. He was really shy and skittish. We managed a couple of photos before he ran back away from the trail.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XmEGe910m3c/WEgbdhhwClI/AAAAAAAAJ5E/qpCKBpl7fIo-jTkmMbN47eUP54CsB9yrQCLcB/s1600/DSC01778_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XmEGe910m3c/WEgbdhhwClI/AAAAAAAAJ5E/qpCKBpl7fIo-jTkmMbN47eUP54CsB9yrQCLcB/s640/DSC01778_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We didn't see any dragons on the remaining trail. However, we saw lots of butterflier and caterpillers, knocked fresh tamarind pods from the tree, and collected lemon basil for cooking.
<p>
The trail soon lead us back to the beach and the pier where our hike finished.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vbvq4IQBT7w/WEgcBZbgD3I/AAAAAAAAJ6c/5rrlOVckyxEgjwxZE86Vs8wTP9266Ox6gCLcB/s1600/IMG_9870_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vbvq4IQBT7w/WEgcBZbgD3I/AAAAAAAAJ6c/5rrlOVckyxEgjwxZE86Vs8wTP9266Ox6gCLcB/s640/IMG_9870_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Beni promised me time to fish on the pier as I saw patches of coral with a number of interesting species. I had about 1.5 hours to fish before an early lunch.
<p>
I started with strips of squid but most of the fish were not keen to bite squid. Only these Damselfish appreciated squid. I caught a handful of this Damselfish species. All the individuals share a very distinct green spot just above the gill. There were a few smaller, fainter green spots on the nape immediately behind the more obvious spot. I have yet to determine the identity of this species. I may need professional help.
<p>
Damselfish species - Species #664
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IQJKLcc-FK8/WEgcDfsxuMI/AAAAAAAAJ6g/IosktTCzFFEYTMHJSs4w3xrx96hZjHDhwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9873_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IQJKLcc-FK8/WEgcDfsxuMI/AAAAAAAAJ6g/IosktTCzFFEYTMHJSs4w3xrx96hZjHDhwCLcB/s640/IMG_9873_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
After trying for over 15 minutes without much success with squid, I switch to bread. Fish loved the bread but bread fell off the hook easily. So it took a while until I was able to hook another fish.
<p>
Tail-spot Wrasse (Halichoeres melanurus) - Species #665
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LMWe-A0hR48/WEgcEyReaKI/AAAAAAAAJ6k/1rtxMPNU1FUzTyjeqv7JHLWyj8pBLKN-wCLcB/s1600/IMG_9878_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LMWe-A0hR48/WEgcEyReaKI/AAAAAAAAJ6k/1rtxMPNU1FUzTyjeqv7JHLWyj8pBLKN-wCLcB/s640/IMG_9878_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
There was a dark aggressive fish guarding a coral head. At first, I thought it was a Hamlet species as its flapping pectoral fin reminded me of the Black Hamlet I saw in Belize. But Hamlet species are only found in the Atlantic Ocean. Luckily, the fish was quick to bite and I could determine its identity.
<p>
Bowtie Damselfish (Neoglyphidodon melas) - Species #666
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AeEuZGGyJGc/WEgcHNtNmNI/AAAAAAAAJ6o/dVoQJDxq-Ogrjx1QqL9e2vzjFOjtS1bLgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9882_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AeEuZGGyJGc/WEgcHNtNmNI/AAAAAAAAJ6o/dVoQJDxq-Ogrjx1QqL9e2vzjFOjtS1bLgCLcB/s640/IMG_9882_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
There was a pair of Spinefoot that kept stealing the bread off my hook. Eventually, they were fed and the pair moved on. A larger fish bit my bread and I pulled the hook out on the hookset. Luckily, it came back later and I did make the mistake twice. It was gorgeous!
<p>
Floral Wrasse (Cheilinus chlorourus) - Species #667
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XHEOkmJWEOU/WEgcIqYZVcI/AAAAAAAAJ6s/OicGCsyQ-jUZUBVqSRNLevwGEMqRK-z7ACLcB/s1600/IMG_9887_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XHEOkmJWEOU/WEgcIqYZVcI/AAAAAAAAJ6s/OicGCsyQ-jUZUBVqSRNLevwGEMqRK-z7ACLcB/s640/IMG_9887_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
I also missed the hookset on a Parrotfish. The hook was likely deflected off its beak and never found soft tissue. I also saw a Checkered Snapper that did not want shrimp or squid, but it was actively chasing small reef fish. I did not have any small lures with me, but at least now I would know how to target that species next time.
<p>
There was a couple of Sixbar Wrasse around. These fish had been difficult so far. In some snorkeling video, this species of wrasse seemed to outnumbered all other fish species when they were drawn in by fish food fed by the snorkelers. However, the two Sixbar Wrasse here were very line shy. Eventually, I had to downsize to 4lb fluoro and #20 hook to catch one.
<p>
Sixbar Wrasse (Thalassoma hardwicke) - Species #668
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AVOTvnj5i08/WEgcKBkEhQI/AAAAAAAAJ6w/JRDOnE6mr0UtfxX3kFvXZ7VTqdQOJgUvACLcB/s1600/IMG_9890_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AVOTvnj5i08/WEgcKBkEhQI/AAAAAAAAJ6w/JRDOnE6mr0UtfxX3kFvXZ7VTqdQOJgUvACLcB/s640/IMG_9890_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Soon, time was up and lunch was ready. We had lunch before making a quick move to Pink Beach. Even with the short move, I sent out the X-Rap but did not get a bite.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ru0g2NFELcs/WEgcLz469MI/AAAAAAAAJ60/mNYBw5XY_IA2uhprbtBJLU8trz2vLxEAQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9891_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ru0g2NFELcs/WEgcLz469MI/AAAAAAAAJ60/mNYBw5XY_IA2uhprbtBJLU8trz2vLxEAQCLcB/s640/IMG_9891_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Unfortunately, snorkeling videos are too shaky and my footages sucked. You'll just have to take my word that it was the most beautiful snorkeling spot we visiting on this trip. We were fortunately to find a Green Turtle and watched it for at least 10 minutes. I also saw a larger Two-spot Red Snapper (aka Redbass) that had me wishing for a rod.
<p>
The sand at Pink Beach was coral pink.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vwpq-J5kSuQ/WEgcNH5d9PI/AAAAAAAAJ64/vRZIV1ht2VUFMsK2ck5r95gXlAva_GUZQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9892_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vwpq-J5kSuQ/WEgcNH5d9PI/AAAAAAAAJ64/vRZIV1ht2VUFMsK2ck5r95gXlAva_GUZQCLcB/s640/IMG_9892_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
I had scheduled a little time to fish after snorkeling. I wasn't able to fish at Pink Beach since there were a lot of snorkelers around. We relocated to the island across from Pink Beach to fish the shallow reef .
<p>
A couple of new species were quickly landed.
<p>
Yellowstripe Monocle Bream (Scolopsis aurata) - Species #669
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I7sh2WUf-AI/WEgcOQyWoQI/AAAAAAAAJ68/ks5q4qJSrb42WRrmLKUqbOqI9pZC0-sUACLcB/s1600/IMG_9896_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I7sh2WUf-AI/WEgcOQyWoQI/AAAAAAAAJ68/ks5q4qJSrb42WRrmLKUqbOqI9pZC0-sUACLcB/s640/IMG_9896_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Streamlined Spinefoot (Siganus argenteus) - Species #670
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kNLGiTaSDMc/WEgbge97API/AAAAAAAAJ5I/q4UNe63mItcvYvajvXIUTO0oOPs93Rl5wCLcB/s1600/IMG_0001_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kNLGiTaSDMc/WEgbge97API/AAAAAAAAJ5I/q4UNe63mItcvYvajvXIUTO0oOPs93Rl5wCLcB/s640/IMG_0001_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Then, the bite slowed except for Small-toothed Whiptail and Orange-lined Triggerfish. It took quite a while until another interesting species was encountered.
<p>
Green Wrasse (Halichoeres solorensis) - Species #671
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BM9TbNf3vKM/WEgbiVSjVQI/AAAAAAAAJ5M/mFN-RGTBeNoD9gM8MRR9rIIbqhJ1G_LiQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0004_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BM9TbNf3vKM/WEgbiVSjVQI/AAAAAAAAJ5M/mFN-RGTBeNoD9gM8MRR9rIIbqhJ1G_LiQCLcB/s640/IMG_0004_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
It was followed shortly by one more new species until the current started to pick up and the bite stopped.
<p>
Black Blotch Emperor (Lethrinus semicinctus) - Species #672
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uGvbYFxlUFE/WEgbkTYIkPI/AAAAAAAAJ5Q/C2x855bcCm4pzfl6JDYos07uAZxOIbLRwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0008_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uGvbYFxlUFE/WEgbkTYIkPI/AAAAAAAAJ5Q/C2x855bcCm4pzfl6JDYos07uAZxOIbLRwCLcB/s640/IMG_0008_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We decided to make our way slowly to our next snorkeling location. The boat was moving at 4kts and I was able to troll the X-Rap Magnum close to the reef ledge of Komodo Island. Ten minutes into the troll the rod took a strong hit! This was a decent size fish and it was headed for the bottom. I managed to keep it from the bottom on the first two runs. However, the fish was stuck in the reef on its third attempt. Compared to the Wahoo yesterday, I had more trouble fighting this fish. Its dive were so powerful that I had to sit down on the deck and brace against the floor board for support. Luckily, I was finally able to winch the fish off the snag. I was expecting a Giant Tevally but was completely surprised by an awesome splash of red!
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4717-KqCY04/WEgblz8jLCI/AAAAAAAAJ5U/2T0GOtLPs-gxlhqSvGyqUVr2aWYEoAeAgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0011_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4717-KqCY04/WEgblz8jLCI/AAAAAAAAJ5U/2T0GOtLPs-gxlhqSvGyqUVr2aWYEoAeAgCLcB/s640/IMG_0011_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Two-spot Red Snapper (Lutjanus bohar) - Species #673
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dSDAOEhumRs/WEgbnc8xeYI/AAAAAAAAJ5Y/wbk_PDackH4qI7se21uYK2DTEERl_wZlACLcB/s1600/IMG_0017_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dSDAOEhumRs/WEgbnc8xeYI/AAAAAAAAJ5Y/wbk_PDackH4qI7se21uYK2DTEERl_wZlACLcB/s640/IMG_0017_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Everyone was excited again to see a decent fish in the boat. Here's Beni, our first mate, and our cook Francis.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fhRAd2txKOI/WEgbok1d3eI/AAAAAAAAJ5c/7J4IBByQWmImYd0BH-I5vb05LtvJ91HXACLcB/s1600/IMG_0020_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fhRAd2txKOI/WEgbok1d3eI/AAAAAAAAJ5c/7J4IBByQWmImYd0BH-I5vb05LtvJ91HXACLcB/s640/IMG_0020_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
I had read about this species before. They are common in the South Pacific and Australia. It is regarded as one of the most powerful species on the reef. I can attest to its amazing strength for its size. I would rank it stronger than Wahoo but the Wahoo is faster. It was a little surreal that I saw my first specimen while snorkeling just a couple of hours ago, and now I was holding one in hand. I couldn't believe Komodo had delivered two dream catches!
<p>
The crew wanted the fish so we kept it. It put the X-Rap out again and not 5 minutes later, it was hit again! This time, the fish seemed relatively weak. However, it was yet another dream fish that I had waited for the chance to chase one day in Australia, but fortunately found it in the Komodo!
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dRzsXOHr6a8/WEgbrO1svQI/AAAAAAAAJ5k/XsM_KikQ3tYkmcbf9WA_w_gI6R_90PRMQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0033_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dRzsXOHr6a8/WEgbrO1svQI/AAAAAAAAJ5k/XsM_KikQ3tYkmcbf9WA_w_gI6R_90PRMQCLcB/s640/IMG_0033_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Yellowspotted Trevally (Carangoides fulvoguttatus) - Species #674
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2YzsvpsZyZc/WEgbqm6WGtI/AAAAAAAAJ5g/S30KGc7wWTQsOsYp1wWQ_bNCIi-x1bWIwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0024_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2YzsvpsZyZc/WEgbqm6WGtI/AAAAAAAAJ5g/S30KGc7wWTQsOsYp1wWQ_bNCIi-x1bWIwCLcB/s640/IMG_0024_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We continued to troll for an hour to Manta Point without any other hit. The current was really strong during the tide change and perhaps it had affected the bite. However, as we neared our snorkeling site, the captain slowed the boat down. the X-Rap passed over a section of shallow reef and then boom!
<p>
This trip had exceeded all my expectations!!!
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ktdwe4T-_TY/WEgbw9n6YYI/AAAAAAAAJ50/8H-JOiHH5MkQrB8ozWPrHHBWj5uBUjtwgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0040_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ktdwe4T-_TY/WEgbw9n6YYI/AAAAAAAAJ50/8H-JOiHH5MkQrB8ozWPrHHBWj5uBUjtwgCLcB/s640/IMG_0040_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Leopard Coralgrouper (Plectropomus leopardus) - Species #675
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lW02JqdMPgE/WEgbstp1xPI/AAAAAAAAJ5o/j5bzMjE-vRkezo5nfOnV0n0I5ngz9M2YQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0035_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lW02JqdMPgE/WEgbstp1xPI/AAAAAAAAJ5o/j5bzMjE-vRkezo5nfOnV0n0I5ngz9M2YQCLcB/s640/IMG_0035_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Beni was on the bow looking for Manta Ray that were feeding close to the surface. It didn't take long until a few of them were spotted. Here are a couple of feeble attempts to photograph them from above the water.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FNsar07CaWY/WEgbt_PzCHI/AAAAAAAAJ5s/x5zUx0SH3BgtR1eIEpuZ096VV8phX4IPQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0049_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FNsar07CaWY/WEgbt_PzCHI/AAAAAAAAJ5s/x5zUx0SH3BgtR1eIEpuZ096VV8phX4IPQCLcB/s640/IMG_0049_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0PQVqG96EEU/WEgbvYeobgI/AAAAAAAAJ5w/-nwLjiHECt8FyQLdE1PdQmrwwBWgzlyywCLcB/s1600/IMG_0050_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0PQVqG96EEU/WEgbvYeobgI/AAAAAAAAJ5w/-nwLjiHECt8FyQLdE1PdQmrwwBWgzlyywCLcB/s640/IMG_0050_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We hurriedly entered the water and started to swim with them. The Manta Ray feed facing the water so we were constantly swimming up current. We had to constantly kick to keep pace with them. But as you will see in the video below, if the Manta Ray wished to leave, it was impossible swimming at their speed.
<p>
<iframe width="640" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RJvloh4cnrc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<p>
We were very fortunately to find a dozen of these gentle giants since they can be difficult to locate.
<p>
Our day was a complete success - from feeding Komodo dragons to dream catches to snorkeling with Manta Rays. This beautiful sunset was the cherry on top!
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bGIjtFMdNis/WEgbxI02lUI/AAAAAAAAJ54/o2iyin9J5doIWFEOMf2TAjowlqp4ok_ZACLcB/s1600/IMG_0078_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bGIjtFMdNis/WEgbxI02lUI/AAAAAAAAJ54/o2iyin9J5doIWFEOMf2TAjowlqp4ok_ZACLcB/s640/IMG_0078_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Panorama
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I0BTE-M0iQI/WEmCM2F-SAI/AAAAAAAAJ98/FyBftQB2-0QckpmKq9optiN0OuFFIUrAQCLcB/s1600/Komodo_Panorama_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I0BTE-M0iQI/WEmCM2F-SAI/AAAAAAAAJ98/FyBftQB2-0QckpmKq9optiN0OuFFIUrAQCLcB/s640/Komodo_Panorama_post.jpg" width="640" height="192" /></a>
<p>
I asked Francis to prepare some Two-spot Red Snapper fillet for dinner. It was delicious! The meat was mild, moist and not too firm. It may have been even better as a steamed fish.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yl59YQ7Wng8/WEgbyxn256I/AAAAAAAAJ58/ihnA1GN6XTkqz5FhOzkGpCxaUPX8HnTHACLcB/s1600/IMG_0082_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yl59YQ7Wng8/WEgbyxn256I/AAAAAAAAJ58/ihnA1GN6XTkqz5FhOzkGpCxaUPX8HnTHACLcB/s640/IMG_0082_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
After the long day, I was pretty tired. I tried to fish after dinner for a bit, but decided to head to bed early when nothing bit after an hour.MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-6869390528887966752016-11-11T09:05:00.000-05:002016-12-18T07:24:09.841-05:002016 Asia - Komodo (Day 2)Seeing the Yellow-tipped Threadfin Bream the night before, I wanted to give the morning dawn hours a try. Sometimes, fish feeds only for a couple of hours around dawn and dusk, and if you miss that prime feeding window, you're just not going to catch any.
<p>
My alarm sounded at 5am but it was still completely dark. I stayed in bed until 5:30am when there was just a little light to start fishing.
<p>
It was a huge surprise that I was bit on the first drop since I had no bite the night before. The first fish was right on target.
<p>
Yellow-tipped Threadfin Bream (Nemipterus nematopus) - Species #644
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J-nZn6aS6kw/WEgXPeMI5aI/AAAAAAAAJ1c/88k80yjiF8s8MsgOk97hnTiIJTCTGFs6gCLcB/s1600/IMG_9548_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J-nZn6aS6kw/WEgXPeMI5aI/AAAAAAAAJ1c/88k80yjiF8s8MsgOk97hnTiIJTCTGFs6gCLcB/s640/IMG_9548_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
It took minutes to get another bite with a new species coming up.
<p>
Lattice Monocle Bream (Scolopsis taenioptera) - Species #645
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_YGi0_q3Kaw/WEgXQFlQGWI/AAAAAAAAJ1g/bEIa0iEdrgAr94Kee1NNL8JxF2BmKqe7QCLcB/s1600/IMG_9549_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_YGi0_q3Kaw/WEgXQFlQGWI/AAAAAAAAJ1g/bEIa0iEdrgAr94Kee1NNL8JxF2BmKqe7QCLcB/s640/IMG_9549_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
I caught another Yellow-tipped Threadfin Bream until it became quiet. The sun was rising behind the hills and it was getting much brighter. It's interesting how narrow a window I had for this species as I experience the same over the next couple of days.
<p>
I decided to cast away from the boat to search for some kind of structure since it was mostly featureless right below the boat. There wasn't any structure all around the boat aside from the odd rock. However, I started to get some small bites and eventually caught a really cool species.
<p>
Giant Prawn-goby (Amblyeleotris fontanesii) - Species #646
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ymejcX5RqMk/WEgXRgO4SqI/AAAAAAAAJ1k/ssw3nbiI5-Ie8W0iemgOpW8Y--pF-u6WQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9557_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ymejcX5RqMk/WEgXRgO4SqI/AAAAAAAAJ1k/ssw3nbiI5-Ie8W0iemgOpW8Y--pF-u6WQCLcB/s640/IMG_9557_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
A few cast later, I could catch another one. For a Goby, they were huge! Both of them were about 7" long!
<p>
I put the rod down to photograph the surrounding. Often I forget to take scenery pictures on fishing trips and I consciously made a point to take more photos this time.
<p>
Dawn at Rinca. Locals pronounce the name of the island as "Rin-cha".
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qtZKAxi84T0/WEgXTP6mFEI/AAAAAAAAJ1o/8uX0MRURv6I4JFTl3M6rv0gTftTq8n1QwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9565_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qtZKAxi84T0/WEgXTP6mFEI/AAAAAAAAJ1o/8uX0MRURv6I4JFTl3M6rv0gTftTq8n1QwCLcB/s640/IMG_9565_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
While the Yellow-tipped Threadfin Bream disappeared, it was replaced by another species. Even so, this species was only around before the sun peaked over the hills and I caught two specimens quickly before they disappeared.
<p>
Fork-tailed Threadfin Bream (Nemipterus furcosus) - Species #647
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BEPRFY1wp3g/WEgXUZnHNUI/AAAAAAAAJ1s/pdy9b6xzsFUpQE5Wz8vjSyoaHjYN28S6gCLcB/s1600/IMG_9569_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BEPRFY1wp3g/WEgXUZnHNUI/AAAAAAAAJ1s/pdy9b6xzsFUpQE5Wz8vjSyoaHjYN28S6gCLcB/s640/IMG_9569_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
By 7am, everyone, including my sister, was out of bed and having breakfast. After breakfast, we made a 10 minute move and docked at Loh Buaya on Rinca. Loh Buaya meant "Freshwater Crocodile Bay" and Komodo dragons are locally known as freshwater crocodile for their ability to swim.
<p>
I thought the hiking tours started at 8am and we were a little early. Later, I found that we could start as early as 7am. But on this morning, with the presumed extra time, I poked around the dock a bit and quickly found many of these little fish holding under the dock or under docked boats.
<p>
Orbiculate Cardinalfish (Sphaeramia orbicularis) - Species #648
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n2YtRJKIkgg/WEgXWsBvCeI/AAAAAAAAJ1w/peR6SlsGjTMX-ZMnBR3UtZp_a2FadU1TACLcB/s1600/IMG_9575_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n2YtRJKIkgg/WEgXWsBvCeI/AAAAAAAAJ1w/peR6SlsGjTMX-ZMnBR3UtZp_a2FadU1TACLcB/s640/IMG_9575_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
There were so many species around it was difficult to put the rod down. However, Beni and the captain assured me that I'll have plenty of time to fish after the hike.
<p>
We walked up the dock to meet our park guide. The park guides not only served to teach visitors about the island and the wildlife. They also had the important job of ensuring that visitors are safe on the hike. Although Komodo dragon attacks are rare, guides still rely on their forked stick as a deterrent against aggressive attacks.
<p>
We were just 100m from the main ranger buildings when we spotted a trail.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k2XIZvrw2iU/WEgXYxYPshI/AAAAAAAAJ10/ApUxxcbrjGYalmA1qq6KmapBnlltK9U0ACLcB/s1600/IMG_9581_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k2XIZvrw2iU/WEgXYxYPshI/AAAAAAAAJ10/ApUxxcbrjGYalmA1qq6KmapBnlltK9U0ACLcB/s640/IMG_9581_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Following the trail, it led us to a male Komodo dragon that was 8 feet long. Welcome to Komodo National Park!
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zdwm51decFM/WEgXaF7G8mI/AAAAAAAAJ14/Lkg2HGw5-JAEpAogpUbfbyCIF3oCQGObQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9584_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zdwm51decFM/WEgXaF7G8mI/AAAAAAAAJ14/Lkg2HGw5-JAEpAogpUbfbyCIF3oCQGObQCLcB/s640/IMG_9584_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
These giant lizards are most active for a few hours in the morning and late afternoon. They needed the sun to warm their bodies in the early morning. However, by late morning, the sun is too hot and intense that these lizard need to seek shade. The high temperature can cause the food in their stomach to rot which can be lethal to the animal. Thus, well fed Komodo dragon usually seek shade during the day. This big male was very lethargic and he was likely still nursing food coma from a big meal. We still gave the male a healthy distance because their sluggishness can be deceiving. They are ambush predators after all.
<p>
There were other animal that needed shade including Timor rusa deer (Cervus timorensis) that sought shelter under the ranger station. These deer are the primary prey for adult dragons.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O7ivJI9K0Cg/WEgXbnSqTNI/AAAAAAAAJ18/a9wIVmhMS-sXcgDZZLfxwVCoTZxT3XsPACLcB/s1600/IMG_9586_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O7ivJI9K0Cg/WEgXbnSqTNI/AAAAAAAAJ18/a9wIVmhMS-sXcgDZZLfxwVCoTZxT3XsPACLcB/s640/IMG_9586_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Many subadult dragons can be seen walking around. These subabults were more active. While subadults are often seen on the ground, most juveniles reside in the trees. The main predator for young Komodo dragon is another larger Komodo dragon. We were following a 4 feet subadult around until it decided to bedded down in the shade. They had almost no fear of humans.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ykwtGboFh3o/WEgacbEDgqI/AAAAAAAAJ4k/cZvbRDVu61ATtjMNwwp-LxRU_05g0m2KwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9594_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ykwtGboFh3o/WEgacbEDgqI/AAAAAAAAJ4k/cZvbRDVu61ATtjMNwwp-LxRU_05g0m2KwCLcB/s640/IMG_9594_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We continued to the kitchen building and found six big dragons, three males and three females, drawn to the smell of food. Komodo dragons are solitary at all stages of their life. They usually only congregate when drawn by food or the need to breed. This really wasn't that great of a photo, but we were asked to stay at this angle to the dragons by the ranger.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--ILb39Q1Fnw/WEgXdO1kY4I/AAAAAAAAJ2A/MS7tE90u9GQebd-oqHBcN-usWZ9tgS9gQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9597_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--ILb39Q1Fnw/WEgXdO1kY4I/AAAAAAAAJ2A/MS7tE90u9GQebd-oqHBcN-usWZ9tgS9gQCLcB/s640/IMG_9597_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We left these big dragons and started to hike toward a known nesting site. Closer to the nest, we came upon a female dragon in the shade along the trail. These dragons are very well camouflaged in the shade and even our ranger was caught by surprise when he hadn't seen the 6 feet long female until he was 10 feet away! Usually, you want to stay at least 2 body lengths away from these dragons.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RifXBjwV8i0/WEgafUdoHJI/AAAAAAAAJ4o/ULZjlS3yhVEmWmSYUa8Q3DnuThDi_MUugCLcB/s1600/IMG_9604_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RifXBjwV8i0/WEgafUdoHJI/AAAAAAAAJ4o/ULZjlS3yhVEmWmSYUa8Q3DnuThDi_MUugCLcB/s640/IMG_9604_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
As sluggish as they appear, they can move quite fast. A younger female was moving away from the nest at a brisk gait.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gcDL1wjKYp0/WEgXfgPeShI/AAAAAAAAJ2E/cdyT4nUuYmkFsh-lD2QpSOt2kKPprWsWwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9607_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gcDL1wjKYp0/WEgXfgPeShI/AAAAAAAAJ2E/cdyT4nUuYmkFsh-lD2QpSOt2kKPprWsWwCLcB/s640/IMG_9607_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Komodo dragon nests started as a Megapode nest. The Megapode bird digs its nest and builds a mount of dirt around the nest. When a pair of birds abandon their nest (or chased off by the dragon), the dragons scavenge and enlarge these nests for their own breeding purpose. This nest may have eggs inside as we saw the two females nearby.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EOcqgSEkCo8/WEgXiE_NuuI/AAAAAAAAJ2I/rR6_9lSHooAylAxTSZOZemRE74yuWtSOQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9609_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EOcqgSEkCo8/WEgXiE_NuuI/AAAAAAAAJ2I/rR6_9lSHooAylAxTSZOZemRE74yuWtSOQCLcB/s640/IMG_9609_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
I was hoping to see a water buffalo in the wild. There were many buffalo dung piles around but alas the animal remained elusive. Colourful beetles were drawn to buffalo dung though.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AfDv20ucDIs/WEgXj_vP4cI/AAAAAAAAJ2M/zv1supJPrZwKtkAVS5LKIQLlPEOcs4HtQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9615_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AfDv20ucDIs/WEgXj_vP4cI/AAAAAAAAJ2M/zv1supJPrZwKtkAVS5LKIQLlPEOcs4HtQCLcB/s640/IMG_9615_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We took a rest stop about 30min into the hike. Even in the shade, the heat was intense and we had to drink water often. Day time temperature was 33C on average.
<p>
It was a little eerie that the rest stop was decorated with skulls.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CIPvmvlD4wo/WEgXlqlJf0I/AAAAAAAAJ2Q/ruipgVifpaQ6-bn15jjoOEAZMlWsGPYTQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9620_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CIPvmvlD4wo/WEgXlqlJf0I/AAAAAAAAJ2Q/ruipgVifpaQ6-bn15jjoOEAZMlWsGPYTQCLcB/s640/IMG_9620_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We continued to hike in the forest habitats that were found in the valleys. Even off the trail, the forest was similarly sparse.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aksJLZaaSk4/WEgXokVYI0I/AAAAAAAAJ2U/dBKjyv6AoTYW_QIbP_UzprGQLPYf_OIPACLcB/s1600/IMG_9621_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aksJLZaaSk4/WEgXokVYI0I/AAAAAAAAJ2U/dBKjyv6AoTYW_QIbP_UzprGQLPYf_OIPACLcB/s640/IMG_9621_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Another 15min later, we came out of the forested valley onto the hilly savannah.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j0kdhpx2JN8/WEgXrBbcZII/AAAAAAAAJ2Y/RdITkklIOTAc4wHh-O5eMPDGOG0ixKF1ACLcB/s1600/IMG_9632_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j0kdhpx2JN8/WEgXrBbcZII/AAAAAAAAJ2Y/RdITkklIOTAc4wHh-O5eMPDGOG0ixKF1ACLcB/s640/IMG_9632_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
While the savannah was mostly bare grasslands, there were scattered short trees and bushes around. In the early morning, adult dragons are often found basking in the savannah. Later in the morning, they move back into the forested valley. Since it was already 10am, we didn't see any dragons on the savannah.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-63EbxBqE1Jc/WEgXuDjlmfI/AAAAAAAAJ2c/4E6WYrapmWIXKt4a8hvtrG3gKC5hxo0xgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9633_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-63EbxBqE1Jc/WEgXuDjlmfI/AAAAAAAAJ2c/4E6WYrapmWIXKt4a8hvtrG3gKC5hxo0xgCLcB/s640/IMG_9633_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
At the boundary between the savannah and the forest, we saw any dragon nest. This one was not in use. Apparently, Megapode birds do not have a preference for shade or sun for their nests. However, like other reptiles, temperature will determine the sex of the brood for Komodo dragons.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rtx-66yvs6M/WEgXws_AvWI/AAAAAAAAJ2g/ojZtcBGam6omiAU0chu2kozMRpAyRFaowCLcB/s1600/IMG_9634_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rtx-66yvs6M/WEgXws_AvWI/AAAAAAAAJ2g/ojZtcBGam6omiAU0chu2kozMRpAyRFaowCLcB/s640/IMG_9634_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Strangely, we didn't see any many dragons on the trail. But around the ranger complex, there were adults and juveniles about. Perhaps they were simply well camouflaged in the forest, or the cleared grounds of complex made the dragons more visible, or they were simply all drawn to the smell of human food. Here was another small three feet long Komodo dragon.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SdDUgR7zXvE/WEgXyRP63mI/AAAAAAAAJ2k/KSCo_dATEK8L3M7RgDgYagzLdeMLwfUOQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9635_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SdDUgR7zXvE/WEgXyRP63mI/AAAAAAAAJ2k/KSCo_dATEK8L3M7RgDgYagzLdeMLwfUOQCLcB/s640/IMG_9635_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
There was a large area devoid of any vegetation. Apparently, this is a flood plain. During very high tides, this area is covered by saltwater. During the rainy season, runoff would also flood this valley floor.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zbS6X2sSAg0/WEgX0UJCJCI/AAAAAAAAJ2o/_UDAjbE8MPUlA03LkcmGWFms3eMVgnl4ACLcB/s1600/IMG_9640_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zbS6X2sSAg0/WEgX0UJCJCI/AAAAAAAAJ2o/_UDAjbE8MPUlA03LkcmGWFms3eMVgnl4ACLcB/s640/IMG_9640_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Goodbye Rinca!
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8tf-zS-HaQc/WEgX2ZTLmnI/AAAAAAAAJ2s/kqsXZnkFjaMYwcz3TPdMepzCXeBcjyaugCLcB/s1600/IMG_9642_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8tf-zS-HaQc/WEgX2ZTLmnI/AAAAAAAAJ2s/kqsXZnkFjaMYwcz3TPdMepzCXeBcjyaugCLcB/s640/IMG_9642_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We got back to the boat at 10:45am. We had plenty of time today and I was given the promised time to fish before lunch.
<p>
There were schools of baitfish around the boat. Occasionally, they were crashed by a predator. They were easy to catch using bread. Thank you to Habanero on FishWrecked.com for his help on the identification of this fish! I initially thought it was a juvenile Mullet.
<p>
Eendracht Land Silverside (Atherinomorus endrachtensis) - Species #649
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n3TJCpaHddg/WEgX4pqeuFI/AAAAAAAAJ2w/YTuI1-Pl9qwgANZzt0WIc2XZpW615jQ6QCLcB/s1600/IMG_9644_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n3TJCpaHddg/WEgX4pqeuFI/AAAAAAAAJ2w/YTuI1-Pl9qwgANZzt0WIc2XZpW615jQ6QCLcB/s640/IMG_9644_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
I did try to fish a live juvenile mullet for the predators. While I was fishing on the dock away from the boat, my sister said I had a bite. She didn't know how to hook the fish and my mullet was taken off the hook without hooking the fish. Oh well. It was likely one of the juvenile Giant Trevally that I glimpsed.
<p>
Using bread, I was also able to catch this species of Damselfish. I caught three of these sharing the same characteristics...although I do hate to identify generic looking brown coloured Damselfish. This may need professional help as well. What I do remember very well is the black spot on the nape, a thin blue margin on the dorsal fin and s few blue spots on the back that was captured by another photograph.
<p>
Damselfish species - Species #650
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-swdzMZyPzQM/WEgX5_vSuyI/AAAAAAAAJ20/Gh0guvVTlKAJoBIznmPJ6TJW-eTbcy4YQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9647_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-swdzMZyPzQM/WEgX5_vSuyI/AAAAAAAAJ20/Gh0guvVTlKAJoBIznmPJ6TJW-eTbcy4YQCLcB/s640/IMG_9647_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
There were a few Pufferfish around. They were not shy at all if shrimp was presented.
<p>
Milkspotted Puffer (Chelonodon patoca) - Species #651
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mdkniT-4zSQ/WEgX7s1LAcI/AAAAAAAAJ24/BN7ioUTcq9UgPoCcI_ted9-DfikqC7L0gCLcB/s1600/IMG_9649_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mdkniT-4zSQ/WEgX7s1LAcI/AAAAAAAAJ24/BN7ioUTcq9UgPoCcI_ted9-DfikqC7L0gCLcB/s640/IMG_9649_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
The boxfish, however, were a pain. They were extremely wary and any little splash would scare them off. They also appeared to be very line shy since they would approach my bait but was turned off when they had a closer look.
<p>
There were some diamond-shaped silvery fish in the depths. They would not bite until I freelined a small chunk of shrimp. A small splitshot was sinking the bait too quickly to turn off the cautious fish so they would only bite if the bait was presented completely weightless.
<p>
Silver Moony (Monodactylus argenteus) - Species #652
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fk7v0wFk8aw/WEgX9dDYvEI/AAAAAAAAJ28/2c4vPbJShuUTCyL6QzBEPEr8XCIDPRfdwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9653_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fk7v0wFk8aw/WEgX9dDYvEI/AAAAAAAAJ28/2c4vPbJShuUTCyL6QzBEPEr8XCIDPRfdwCLcB/s640/IMG_9653_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
I was trying for a tiny Damselfish species when something a little larger bit off my hook. I never was able to catch the Damelfish species since they were no bigger than 1.25" long at best. However I switched to 4lb fluoro with a #20 hook and quickly caught the fish that bite off my tanago hook. It was a juvenile triggerfish.
<p>
Yellowmargined Triggerfish (Pseudobalistes flavimarginatus) - Species #653
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U_GxOiI0ka8/WEgX_PMrGyI/AAAAAAAAJ3A/JVYqfOS37qQY3xloKY58tQptoSJkeYfGACLcB/s1600/IMG_9657_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U_GxOiI0ka8/WEgX_PMrGyI/AAAAAAAAJ3A/JVYqfOS37qQY3xloKY58tQptoSJkeYfGACLcB/s640/IMG_9657_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Using the #20 hook and bread, I also caught a River Garfish species. I'm still trying to narrow down the species...but at least I'm just down to three species to consider.
<p>
Zenarchopteridae species - Species #654
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2BkcKtS9a_U/WEgYBLEovDI/AAAAAAAAJ3I/69tPK2V-_gYHpmp2n5bIGJxIiY8hM8-jwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9659_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2BkcKtS9a_U/WEgYBLEovDI/AAAAAAAAJ3I/69tPK2V-_gYHpmp2n5bIGJxIiY8hM8-jwCLcB/s640/IMG_9659_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Earlier, I was freelining a piece of shrimp when a pair of Pannant Coralfish passed by. One of them circled by bait and took a bite. I was a little too quick setting the hook and the hook was never set properly. The fish shook off after doing 3 circles.
<p>
A while later, I was casting a piece of shrimp under the docked boat with a splitshot rig. The water as too deep and shaded to see bottom. I was walking the bait on bottom hoping to find one of the Blackbelly Triggerfish that were really skittish in the shallow. However, I was pleasantly surprised with a fairly good tussel on the ultralight rod.
<p>
Pennant Coralfish (Heniochus acuminatus) - Species #655
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6CWAWUulXO4/WEkKMHjJ0II/AAAAAAAAJ9E/xvdaiasU5bERkB7t6hy9QYNdKwhA5oCbQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9663_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6CWAWUulXO4/WEkKMHjJ0II/AAAAAAAAJ9E/xvdaiasU5bERkB7t6hy9QYNdKwhA5oCbQCLcB/s640/IMG_9663_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
I never did managed to catch the Blackbelly Triggerfish again. Most of the fish were extremely skittish in the shallow and around the dock. However, eventually, I was able to catch one of the fish with some persistance and stealth.
<p>
White-shouldered Whiptail (Pentapodus bifasciatus) - Species #656
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TCvAqCu2xFk/WEgYDHnmFVI/AAAAAAAAJ3M/k9E_Aig7LfY6cdYJhXd9yFih4DraB5BzgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9668_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TCvAqCu2xFk/WEgYDHnmFVI/AAAAAAAAJ3M/k9E_Aig7LfY6cdYJhXd9yFih4DraB5BzgCLcB/s640/IMG_9668_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
By noon, it was time for lunch. Lunch break was nice as the heat was almost unbearable. While we were having lunch, the boat departed and the captain suggested another location on Rinca island to try for fishing. Since the deeper water appeared to yield very little, I requested to fish shallow reefs.
<p>
Once we arrived at the reef, the first few drops yielded a few interesting species.
<p>
Redbreast Wrasse (Cheilinus fasciatus) - Species #657
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X4WB1R9-oHg/WEgYFZ3ub1I/AAAAAAAAJ3Q/WMFoD1mbGX830yIYp-nZg4441qKOv7XSACLcB/s1600/IMG_9670_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X4WB1R9-oHg/WEgYFZ3ub1I/AAAAAAAAJ3Q/WMFoD1mbGX830yIYp-nZg4441qKOv7XSACLcB/s640/IMG_9670_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Two familiar faces that had me excited for a split second...
<p>
Manybar Goatfish
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WkNlIk-dvwU/WEmA0pvh-4I/AAAAAAAAJ9o/tF_A_V9F_0MFVfupGD8Zb0_gDdOt4sOuQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9674_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WkNlIk-dvwU/WEmA0pvh-4I/AAAAAAAAJ9o/tF_A_V9F_0MFVfupGD8Zb0_gDdOt4sOuQCLcB/s640/IMG_9674_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Pinktail Triggerfish
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eVF_L5FOXUY/WEmBARq7S9I/AAAAAAAAJ9s/WgD5DV8YdAI9PbRxxsq0xtrVpS6ZMQV3ACLcB/s1600/IMG_9678_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eVF_L5FOXUY/WEmBARq7S9I/AAAAAAAAJ9s/WgD5DV8YdAI9PbRxxsq0xtrVpS6ZMQV3ACLcB/s640/IMG_9678_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
However, we were soon surrounded by Orange-lined Triggerfish and Small-toothed Whiptail almost every drop. My sister had NEVER fished in her life, but somehow I got her to try with the rapid action. She was actually enjoying herself "working for our dinner".
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NVS58DF_d-A/WEmBRpFqqmI/AAAAAAAAJ9w/x-azeSgqCW0SYnRkUHPRopUOiUrVhDJFQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9682_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NVS58DF_d-A/WEmBRpFqqmI/AAAAAAAAJ9w/x-azeSgqCW0SYnRkUHPRopUOiUrVhDJFQCLcB/s640/IMG_9682_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WKizCgJ3H2A/WEmBXWrUhzI/AAAAAAAAJ90/kB444xbjZIsi_i6KJHbizjkZe3jR08kjwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9688_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WKizCgJ3H2A/WEmBXWrUhzI/AAAAAAAAJ90/kB444xbjZIsi_i6KJHbizjkZe3jR08kjwCLcB/s640/IMG_9688_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
It was a little bit of a mistake on my part to give her my rod...as I never got it back for over an hour. Luckily, she didn't steal any new species from me, hahaha! I had to set up my heavier 9' rod since the tide was now starting to change and we needed 2oz of weight to stay vertical in 10 feet of water. But eventually, I managed to find one more new species before the tide was too strong to fish.
<p>
Spottail Coris (Coris caudimacula) - Species #658
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ztZiCx5lT5A/WEgYHjrAbhI/AAAAAAAAJ3U/CPLlGnbBmx87FUe9nz7rk0EubTeiAyLqQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9691_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ztZiCx5lT5A/WEgYHjrAbhI/AAAAAAAAJ3U/CPLlGnbBmx87FUe9nz7rk0EubTeiAyLqQCLcB/s640/IMG_9691_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
The water around Komodo National Park can be quite dangerous. It is one of the major channel where water passes between Sea of Flores and the Indian Ocean when the tide changes. Shallow reefs resemble river torrents when water rushed in or off the reef, and whirlpools are created around points, ledges and narrows. As such, divig, snorkeling and fishing are best scheduled around slack tide. Once the tide change was in full swing, we took the opportunity to move toward Palau Padar.
<p>
It took 1.5 hours to reach Palau Padar so it was time to set out the trolling rig again. Since the X-Rap Magnum didn't produce yesterday afternoon, I decided to try a 4" pink squid rigged on a 3/4oz bullet sinker. I was hoping for either Kawakawa or other Tuna species, Narrow-barred Spanish Mackerel or maybe even a Pacific Sailfish. I had the squid skipping occasionally out of the face of the boat wake. Maybe the current was too strong. In the picture below, you can see waves and whitewater. It wasn't due to wind. It was the strong current during the tide change.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KFtEwdrAmME/WEgYJSRqHeI/AAAAAAAAJ3Y/AlB8AqY8Sp8OjoyTjcVCzkWMbD-tW8XTQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9704_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KFtEwdrAmME/WEgYJSRqHeI/AAAAAAAAJ3Y/AlB8AqY8Sp8OjoyTjcVCzkWMbD-tW8XTQCLcB/s640/IMG_9704_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Unfortunately, nothing wanted to play when we finally docked at Palau Padar at 3:30pm.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LtS3SU5ZlTU/WEgYK58b4iI/AAAAAAAAJ3c/qt6853ab5_4wL_exIdnNnWPi5c9VeVBzACLcB/s1600/IMG_9705_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LtS3SU5ZlTU/WEgYK58b4iI/AAAAAAAAJ3c/qt6853ab5_4wL_exIdnNnWPi5c9VeVBzACLcB/s640/IMG_9705_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Palau Padar offers a great panoramic view of the area with only a short 30min hike. Just a little up the hill, we looked back at the tranquil bay where the boat was docked.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yjcne-sfOyQ/WEgYM0oWIKI/AAAAAAAAJ3g/rGFub5qhdUU04ZiiAy93DFd26gGv2wu1QCLcB/s1600/IMG_9706_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yjcne-sfOyQ/WEgYM0oWIKI/AAAAAAAAJ3g/rGFub5qhdUU04ZiiAy93DFd26gGv2wu1QCLcB/s640/IMG_9706_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Paradise
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8COgYnpWvN8/WEgYO2Ah8-I/AAAAAAAAJ3k/TplLRbWZ9U4l3mE37pF_OVWtfl9Hk4q5ACLcB/s1600/IMG_9708_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8COgYnpWvN8/WEgYO2Ah8-I/AAAAAAAAJ3k/TplLRbWZ9U4l3mE37pF_OVWtfl9Hk4q5ACLcB/s640/IMG_9708_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Finally, we reached the viewpoint and got what we came for.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vS_2ZPWYDjk/WEl9xe7LYmI/AAAAAAAAJ9g/Pv5QYmDyngcrTs8njZQ8tfew9yinfx7oACLcB/s1600/Padar_Panorama_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vS_2ZPWYDjk/WEl9xe7LYmI/AAAAAAAAJ9g/Pv5QYmDyngcrTs8njZQ8tfew9yinfx7oACLcB/s640/Padar_Panorama_post.jpg" width="640" height="192" /></a>
<p>
Even at 4pm, it was still quite hot. We had to make a quick retreat to the boat since we had a 1.5 hour trip to our night anchor off Komodo Island. The captain prefer not to run the boat around dusk. Before we left the dock, we saw a school of Bluefin Trevally busting the baitfish next to the dock. However, the school came by quickly and left. And so we left too.
<p>
The long boat ride meant another trolling opportunity for me. Since the squid lure yield nothing close to the surface, I decided to use the X-Rap Magnum again to fish a little deeper. The boat was moving a little slower at around 5 knots as the captain navigated around shallow rocky points.
<p>
The area was looking so prime for some kind of Trevally or Mackerel species. I was actually hoping for a Giant Trevally. It was about 10 minutes into the troll when the boat passed through the narrow gap between Palau Padar and Palau Batubilah. As we started to move away from Batubilah, The water started to turn a darker shade of blue. I happened to look beside me and saw a larger white object underwater. Was it the belly of a Manta Ray or was it just a table-sized white plastic bag? Regardless, I was hoping my lure would not snag it. Just as my lure, set about 50 yards back, passed the location of that white object, my clicker screamed. I was hooked into something, but it came off after two shakes.
<p>
Thinking it was maybe a giant plastic bag after all, I reeled in the lure to make sure the hooks are not obstructed or the lure was not wrapped on the wire leader. To my surprise, and disappointment, I found a couple of deep teeth marks on the lure. Darn! It was a fish. Perhaps it was a Barracuda since it appeared the fish struck the lure broadside but just missing the two hooks.
<p>
With the first trolling hit over the two days of trolling, it gave me a bit more confidence that, perhaps, there were fish to be caught on the troll here in the Komodo. I sent out the X-Rap Magnum again and made sure it was swimming properly at the 6 knots that we were now traveling, and that the drag was not set too tight.
<p>
It wasn't even 5 minutes before my clicker screamed off again! This time, the fish stayed on and it was quickly into my braid backing. I was using a 40lb mono topshot and 65lb braid backing, so my drag was kept a little lighter. I probably only had 10lb of drag at max initially. I yelled to Beni that I had a fish on the line and Beni relayed the message to the captain. The boat was slowed to about 2 knots but still moving forward. In hindsight, it was probably best as the fish was swimming toward the boat after the initial run and I had to work to keep the line tight. The fish seemed to have tired after the first run and I was just cranking it in. I still haven't had deep colour yet, so I was assuming it was just a small fish. Eventually, I saw a long silvery shape in the water.
<p>
What was that?
<p>
The fish was still too deep, and the boat wake too broken, to get a good look. Eventually, the captain came to the back for a look and he decided to put the boat into neutral. It was then I got the fish closer to the surface and saw the black tiger stripes. It was a Wahoo!!!
<p>
You see, I've been trying for a Wahoo since the summer of 2000 on Nevis Island where I had my first taste for deep sea trolling. At the time, we were sold on the idea by the boat captain that there were a lot of Wahoo around Nevis that it was worthwhile to leave the biting Giant Barracuda to find Wahoo. We never did see a Wahoo that trip. Since then, I had tried to troll for Wahoo with Todd in Hawaii whenever I visited. We probably had a couple dozen days on the water. I've caught Tuna and Mahimahi with Todd, and even seen a few Blue Marlin. But the Wahoo had remained largely a dream.
<p>
Thus, here I was in the Komodo Island, doing everything on my own from knowledge I've learned from Todd and other friends, using my own gear, on a liveaboard boat that was not really ideal for fishing...and hooked into my first Wahoo without a gaff or net available to bring it in.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tp7GKhlmIHo/WEgYQAQLHNI/AAAAAAAAJ3o/FuzM52Nb57kTdcXXvm-uIWQ6iKYxArFgwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9738_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tp7GKhlmIHo/WEgYQAQLHNI/AAAAAAAAJ3o/FuzM52Nb57kTdcXXvm-uIWQ6iKYxArFgwCLcB/s640/IMG_9738_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
I asked my sister to take some pictures of the fish in case it should shake off or pull off the hook when we tried to lift it in. All I got was the photo above LOL.
<p>
It was at this point that the Wahoo got a second burst of energy and made a blazing run into the depths. Luckily, my drag was light enough to handle this surge. I brought the fish up to the surface and it made yet another dive. The second dive gave me a heart attack as the fish ran under the boat and I fears the line would tangle with the prop. But I managed to guide the fish back out to the side and brought it to the surface one last time.
<p>
Without a gaff, it was a handful landing the Wahoo. The deck was a couple feet over the water. But luckily, the hook was well seated and the captain flipped the fish into the boat in one smooth motion. The captain was a fisherman before he started to run tourist trips and he had done this many times before.
<p>
MY FIRST WAHOO!!! I was grinning ear to ear and you couldn't wipe it off my face!
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q_AFYgsPVGI/WEgYRZZxcsI/AAAAAAAAJ3s/vyDfUNCYRcsQc4OeaCxeOQS224paV8L5QCLcB/s1600/IMG_9739_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q_AFYgsPVGI/WEgYRZZxcsI/AAAAAAAAJ3s/vyDfUNCYRcsQc4OeaCxeOQS224paV8L5QCLcB/s640/IMG_9739_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4l3ZAdeOB3M/WEgYSzXnkyI/AAAAAAAAJ3w/D0F_xM0kRIQr3ZcNcG7NruWwzn4Y36mawCLcB/s1600/IMG_9740_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4l3ZAdeOB3M/WEgYSzXnkyI/AAAAAAAAJ3w/D0F_xM0kRIQr3ZcNcG7NruWwzn4Y36mawCLcB/s640/IMG_9740_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Wahoo (Acanthocybium solandri) - Species #659!
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CpWLq2R39M4/WEgYVZw9kFI/AAAAAAAAJ34/wTAE6c8BGP4MBLTO7Qvs0RFxlAUg6_itACLcB/s1600/IMG_9744_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CpWLq2R39M4/WEgYVZw9kFI/AAAAAAAAJ34/wTAE6c8BGP4MBLTO7Qvs0RFxlAUg6_itACLcB/s640/IMG_9744_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
It wasn't just me who was too excited. Even the captain and Beni were super happy about the catch.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9h7to0Jyk4s/WEgYWiwPslI/AAAAAAAAJ38/Eu-cTXQ7WdYnWAez20aXx5_bSsyD1F-SgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9752_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9h7to0Jyk4s/WEgYWiwPslI/AAAAAAAAJ38/Eu-cTXQ7WdYnWAez20aXx5_bSsyD1F-SgCLcB/s640/IMG_9752_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
This was the winning lure - the green/gold mackerel X-Rap Magnum 15
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QbRxgODCm3U/WEgYX38c-BI/AAAAAAAAJ4A/gCHPJlQuk48SbkRlmXppx_JwptIxZ3ozQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9766_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QbRxgODCm3U/WEgYX38c-BI/AAAAAAAAJ4A/gCHPJlQuk48SbkRlmXppx_JwptIxZ3ozQCLcB/s640/IMG_9766_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
It only took a Wahoo to trash it. Wahoo has serious set of teeth!
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-09jwx_Rs6WE/WEgYZYENmZI/AAAAAAAAJ4E/xSE2LD2c0IQRwAdWPdfSnLTfcuFExnaHACLcB/s1600/IMG_9767_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-09jwx_Rs6WE/WEgYZYENmZI/AAAAAAAAJ4E/xSE2LD2c0IQRwAdWPdfSnLTfcuFExnaHACLcB/s640/IMG_9767_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
After a number of photos, we got underway again and I sent out the X-Rap again. Another 1 hour later, I was still hopeful for another bite...
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D5PlUdze668/WEgYa9UKLvI/AAAAAAAAJ4I/J639d9ZdlKo2U2R_lF25WHlK6wLM3fXZgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9773_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D5PlUdze668/WEgYa9UKLvI/AAAAAAAAJ4I/J639d9ZdlKo2U2R_lF25WHlK6wLM3fXZgCLcB/s640/IMG_9773_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
But it never came. We finally docked at Komodo Village to resupply and get some more ice for the Wahoo.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eCRoZ1AZvkk/WEgYc86HxmI/AAAAAAAAJ4M/hwfSHfRYAmETi_hAro7iGJuvojwcQvFaQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9776_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eCRoZ1AZvkk/WEgYc86HxmI/AAAAAAAAJ4M/hwfSHfRYAmETi_hAro7iGJuvojwcQvFaQCLcB/s640/IMG_9776_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
It took a little more time to resupply so I started to drop some baits and found some new species.
<p>
Saw-jawed Monocle Bream (Scolopsis ciliata) - Species #660
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bnEM7SsrHsQ/WEgYfkYNofI/AAAAAAAAJ4Q/zAqhIX-rDF4NL-zD-8npuln0scSdadPmwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9778_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bnEM7SsrHsQ/WEgYfkYNofI/AAAAAAAAJ4Q/zAqhIX-rDF4NL-zD-8npuln0scSdadPmwCLcB/s640/IMG_9778_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Cardinal species - Species #661 (yet to have a confirmed ID)
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uxOMzwY7Fmc/WEgYiBUNOhI/AAAAAAAAJ4U/KrHS4SISHrcV4U3vXdJjs38DJ8IUFaAjwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9783_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uxOMzwY7Fmc/WEgYiBUNOhI/AAAAAAAAJ4U/KrHS4SISHrcV4U3vXdJjs38DJ8IUFaAjwCLcB/s640/IMG_9783_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Spotted-gill Cardinalfish (Ostorhinchus chrysopomus) - Species #662
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fI27mIz-_dc/WEgYknkNssI/AAAAAAAAJ4Y/e1ZMtphh1R4nY2ghBpjAOoHeE_Jn2lHoACLcB/s1600/IMG_9785_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fI27mIz-_dc/WEgYknkNssI/AAAAAAAAJ4Y/e1ZMtphh1R4nY2ghBpjAOoHeE_Jn2lHoACLcB/s640/IMG_9785_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We left the dock and anchored in a quiet bay off Kalong Island with 6 other boats. It was quiet alright...with one boat blasting music until 12am...
<p>
I requested some fresh Wahoo for dinner and we had pan-fried Wahoo.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VFaVGCxRNlQ/WEgYmg3y69I/AAAAAAAAJ4c/qs9A3UhPC40bn0xsSKayrrYQPEmE-CnGgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9787_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VFaVGCxRNlQ/WEgYmg3y69I/AAAAAAAAJ4c/qs9A3UhPC40bn0xsSKayrrYQPEmE-CnGgCLcB/s640/IMG_9787_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
To be honest, I don't prefer Wahoo. I find it much too firm and bland (same as Mahimahi). Maybe it would have been great as sashimi?
<p>
I tried to fish for a bit after dinner, but like the night before, it was just dead. There were fish busting bait in the mangroves, but that was way out of reach.MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-25349496599967099152016-11-10T08:53:00.000-05:002016-12-18T10:58:46.763-05:002016 Asia - Komodo (Day 1)This adventure started as a trip back to Hong Kong to attend my cousin's wedding. When my sister suggested that we should take another brother-sister trip, we started looking at destination options. We were hoping to visit Angkor Wat in 2010, but ultimately canceled that plan when there was political unrest in Bangkok, our important transfer point to Siem Reap. Angkor Wat was thus high on our list. My sister wanted to visit Bali, but I knew it would be much too touristy. Komodo National Park was not too far from Bali and surprisingly my sister was interested in the rugged and wild islands within the park. Thus, an itinerary was born.
<p>
Fishing in Komodo National Park isn't unexplored. There are plenty of reports, pictures and videos on Giant Trevally from the area. However, from a species standpoint, it appears as if no one has any idea what the Komodo area has to offer. People are so focused on big game fishing most of the time they miss out on all the other smaller species. The Sea of Flores is the most biodiverse marine ecosystem on Earth. Thus, there is a huge potential for species fishing and lifelisters. So it is an understatement that I was really anticipating this trip and quite anxious about the outcome of it.
<p>
It took almost a full day to travel from Hong Kong to Kuala Lumpur to Bali on AirAsia. We woke up early on Dec 10 to catch a flight from Bali to Labuan Bajo. We were excited to be traveling again. 4am wake up call isn't going to dampen our spirits!
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cjy82cytHY4/WEgUpxJ1j0I/AAAAAAAAJ0c/9oBSgcFC5rwbaP4K6sTofVbPkMUadQL7ACLcB/s1600/IMG_9474_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cjy82cytHY4/WEgUpxJ1j0I/AAAAAAAAJ0c/9oBSgcFC5rwbaP4K6sTofVbPkMUadQL7ACLcB/s640/IMG_9474_post.jpg" width="480" height="640" /></a>
<p>
We happily arrived on time with all our luggage. It would have been a disaster if they had lost our luggage, as we were departing on a 4-day boat tour immediately upon arrival.
<p>
When we were looking for tour options to visit Komodo National Park, we could either base ourselves in Labuan Bajo and partake on various day trips to different islands, or entertain the idea of a multi-day liveaboard boat cruise that takes us to different islands.
<p>
Let me see...day trip vs. liveaboard boat? The decision was very easy for me! After doing some digging, I found a company that offers customized private tour. We chose a basic boat (without A/C and no luxury) to limit cost, but had the freedom to decide what to do, when to do it, and how we want to do it. Otherwise, the other option is to join existing tours (mostly diving tours) with groups of people that would limit where we would visit and what we can do. Most importantly, to me at least, others would dictate how much fishing is possible, if any.
<p>
We boarded the wooden boat and quickly settled in. Our sleeping quarters were basic but adequate. I took the upper bunk.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_FmBpLy6HaI/WEgdWg4EWXI/AAAAAAAAJ74/7-0_9o4-nqQFjwIr0AXJ4pt9j7aToqVqACLcB/s1600/IMG_0161_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_FmBpLy6HaI/WEgdWg4EWXI/AAAAAAAAJ74/7-0_9o4-nqQFjwIr0AXJ4pt9j7aToqVqACLcB/s640/IMG_0161_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Our first stop was Bididari Island, just 30 minutes from the port of Labuan Bajo. We started with an early lunch before taking to the water for some snorkeling. Note the bananas on the top right corner! We had bananas on the boat for the entire duration of the trip, yet I caught some of my most wanted targets plus 4 great unexpected trolling catches!!! I don't think bananas mattered at all.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A68YEHTjEF0/WEgUqIiajrI/AAAAAAAAJ0g/q6Nz2Yo79SYdDwFeMuxDY2SMBuDfQy_fgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9479_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A68YEHTjEF0/WEgUqIiajrI/AAAAAAAAJ0g/q6Nz2Yo79SYdDwFeMuxDY2SMBuDfQy_fgCLcB/s640/IMG_9479_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
The water was decent at Bidibari with lots of coral and fish, but we were promised even better at a later part of the trip. I decided to keep the GoPro on the boat and simply enjoy the snorkeling without any documentation.
<p>
When I made the itinerary, I wanted to use our snorkeling session as reconnaissance for fishing opportunities. It's quite reasonable, right? Thus, after each snorkeling session, I planned a little fishing in the area. I was informed very clearly that we are not allowed to fish immediately at the diving/snorkeling site, if other divers and snorkelers were in the area. Usually, it only required a little move away from the dive site until I was allowed to fish.
<p>
On this day, we were far away from other snorkeler that I could drop a line close to our snorkeling spot. It took little time to start adding species.
<p>
Golden Damselfish (Amblyglyphidodon aureus) - Species #635
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iv1C0MwNBw0/WEgUnOhTI8I/AAAAAAAAJ0Y/pc5HQQsZP8INyD2r4yXs1Pd9B8sUkuh5QCLcB/s1600/IMG_9480_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iv1C0MwNBw0/WEgUnOhTI8I/AAAAAAAAJ0Y/pc5HQQsZP8INyD2r4yXs1Pd9B8sUkuh5QCLcB/s640/IMG_9480_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Small-toothed Whiptail (Pentapodus caninus) - Species #636
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Jrcm_RLT30/WEgWTmrxz_I/AAAAAAAAJ1U/hY7RUTtxHeMe1Fzwtwkua83xzVeAT_dYACLcB/s1600/IMG_9486_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Jrcm_RLT30/WEgWTmrxz_I/AAAAAAAAJ1U/hY7RUTtxHeMe1Fzwtwkua83xzVeAT_dYACLcB/s640/IMG_9486_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
These Small-toothed Whiptail were very common. Our tour guide Beni wanted to keep a bunch of these so the crew can make fish soup for their breakfast. We were happy to provide.
<p>
Cheeklined Wrasse (Oxycheilinus digramma) - Species #637
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mahPr_ywZMI/WEgUreG0v5I/AAAAAAAAJ0k/i-aM7dW0iw055x73J6kHT5txTc0sH_x1ACLcB/s1600/IMG_9488_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mahPr_ywZMI/WEgUreG0v5I/AAAAAAAAJ0k/i-aM7dW0iw055x73J6kHT5txTc0sH_x1ACLcB/s640/IMG_9488_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Chocolate Hind (Cephalopholis boenak) - Species #638
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vwxIAlEs_FQ/WEgUsQdizsI/AAAAAAAAJ0o/Wtzp7dXhyjw4wJh8I6b6MwBRHdXDyseXACLcB/s1600/IMG_9492_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vwxIAlEs_FQ/WEgUsQdizsI/AAAAAAAAJ0o/Wtzp7dXhyjw4wJh8I6b6MwBRHdXDyseXACLcB/s640/IMG_9492_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
I only had an hour to fish before we made a move to Kanawa Island. It was a short 15min move until we got into the water for more snorkeling. Kanawa Island is surrounded by a healthy and colourful shallow reef. They number of fish species that were present had my eye popping. Unfortunately, I wasn't allowed to fish on the shallow reef :(
<p>
After another hour of snorkeling, it was time to add some of the species I've seen. The boat was anchored in deeper water and the fishing was much less productive than I had hoped. Still, some fish were cooperative.
<p>
Moon Wrasse (Thalassoma lunare) - Species #639
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5pWHtyn8Fkw/WEgUuMRndMI/AAAAAAAAJ0s/NcS_eYMMVsUlkVZO4rfX35g1_QbeebO6gCLcB/s1600/IMG_9500_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5pWHtyn8Fkw/WEgUuMRndMI/AAAAAAAAJ0s/NcS_eYMMVsUlkVZO4rfX35g1_QbeebO6gCLcB/s640/IMG_9500_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Orange-lined Triggerfish (Balistapus undulatus) - Species #640
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xrEQ_hOcDyY/WEgUwCG2ofI/AAAAAAAAJ0w/U3ZckG7V0LEsPL2wS-i1rj0IpNqUZKujACLcB/s1600/IMG_9506_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xrEQ_hOcDyY/WEgUwCG2ofI/AAAAAAAAJ0w/U3ZckG7V0LEsPL2wS-i1rj0IpNqUZKujACLcB/s640/IMG_9506_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
These Orange-lined Triggerfish were so plentiful. It was the most common species of Triggerfish I encountered. They get annoying sometimes when I was trying to find other species.
<p>
When I was only catching Orange-lined Triggerfish, Beni suggested that I should fish off the back of the boat toward the reef drop off. On my first cast, my dropper loop was bit as soon as it hit bottom and a better fish was on the line. In fact, it was a double header of two nicer fish!
<p>
Bluespotted Hind (Cephalopholis cyanostigma) - Species #641
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sgwkr3r694w/WEgUxedVc1I/AAAAAAAAJ00/3JkQkBqODngzgyJb0Ivj8JetU16ZmmOawCLcB/s1600/IMG_9508_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sgwkr3r694w/WEgUxedVc1I/AAAAAAAAJ00/3JkQkBqODngzgyJb0Ivj8JetU16ZmmOawCLcB/s640/IMG_9508_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Longfin Emperor (Lethrinus erythropterus) - Species #642
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KLHZWixRbrI/WEgUy8B8XuI/AAAAAAAAJ04/CNYMWjY2b5AxWRQFQ3wlP5__HviOmYCOACLcB/s1600/IMG_9514_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KLHZWixRbrI/WEgUy8B8XuI/AAAAAAAAJ04/CNYMWjY2b5AxWRQFQ3wlP5__HviOmYCOACLcB/s640/IMG_9514_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
I managed another species of Triggerfish...
<p>
Halfmoon Triggerfish (Sufflamen chrysopterum) - Species #643
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A0UKztWlfhc/WEgWX8CxvKI/AAAAAAAAJ1Y/ZW65UdEiBwYVCdkTuDNFJOobARc_8qneACLcB/s1600/IMG_9520_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A0UKztWlfhc/WEgWX8CxvKI/AAAAAAAAJ1Y/ZW65UdEiBwYVCdkTuDNFJOobARc_8qneACLcB/s640/IMG_9520_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
...before the Orange-lined Triggerfish plagued me again.
<p>
Orange-lined Triggerfish
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y4LfJqKnLLI/WEgU0p9DgtI/AAAAAAAAJ08/lTQpWZ9BTFkZN9kUy25DwyTlDu-rwlkDACLcB/s1600/IMG_9524_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y4LfJqKnLLI/WEgU0p9DgtI/AAAAAAAAJ08/lTQpWZ9BTFkZN9kUy25DwyTlDu-rwlkDACLcB/s640/IMG_9524_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
On our original itinerary, we were supposed to anchor at Kanawa Island overnight. However, since we were at least 2 hours ahead of schedule, the captain suggested that we could visit a small island off Rinca Island to watch Flying Fox leave their mangrove roosts to feed at dusk.
<p>
The journey from Kanawa Island to Rinca Island required 2 hours. It was time for me to set up the one trolling rod I took on this trip to see if there were any pelagic species to be found. Our wooden boat was basic enough that there was only a 2 feet by 5 feet wooden deck at the back of the boat. There was no rod holder that could be installed. I was also informed that the boat didn't have a gaff or a net should any fish required to be brought on board. It wasn't ideal at all, but the opportunity for some trolling was there, so I took advantage of it just the same.
<p>
Well, on this day, the fish didn't want my X-Rap Magnum lure so all the aforementioned deficiencies didn't matter, haha! My arms and legs were a little stiff standing and bracing against the back wall and holding the rod for 2 hours while trolling at 7 knots. That's how I trolled for the rest of the trip since there wasn't even a space for a chair to sit while trolling.
<p>
We finally arrived at Kalong Island and the captain had a little trouble setting the anchor as the tide changed.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SnintoXhUqU/WEgU2Ccj3hI/AAAAAAAAJ1A/7rJw6SPye_UcoDO1ru8l3PT_V6pihWtQQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9529_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SnintoXhUqU/WEgU2Ccj3hI/AAAAAAAAJ1A/7rJw6SPye_UcoDO1ru8l3PT_V6pihWtQQCLcB/s640/IMG_9529_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
I fished for a bit while waiting for the sun to set, but the area was devoid of fish. It was a huge surprise since the water was deep. Over the next few days, I would learn that any water over 20 feet basically meant there were very few fish to be caught.
<p>
The Flying Fox were too fast, and the light intensity too low, to capture as photographs. Here's a short video of them.
<p>
<iframe width="640" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JoVXFo3Yo1A" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<p>
The sunset was wonderful.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iMPGgxQ3XJU/WEgU36ii76I/AAAAAAAAJ1E/slDmbgjMULoqtlmooDwyDmx0piHi5H_fgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9532_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iMPGgxQ3XJU/WEgU36ii76I/AAAAAAAAJ1E/slDmbgjMULoqtlmooDwyDmx0piHi5H_fgCLcB/s640/IMG_9532_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FumXz1hERD8/WEgU5TjGmuI/AAAAAAAAJ1I/ectrOPES5EM1pUcWnhd0-ZnqOXqODgcgQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9535_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FumXz1hERD8/WEgU5TjGmuI/AAAAAAAAJ1I/ectrOPES5EM1pUcWnhd0-ZnqOXqODgcgQCLcB/s640/IMG_9535_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Thousands of Flying Fox filled the air and continued to leave their roost while we had dinner. Food was basic but adequate for my sister and I. We are not picky eaters at all.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bShNKguzVKY/WEgU7VW7PTI/AAAAAAAAJ1M/0Myp2zh5oBUEb4TCNtqSbuttudxctbD6gCLcB/s1600/IMG_9545_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bShNKguzVKY/WEgU7VW7PTI/AAAAAAAAJ1M/0Myp2zh5oBUEb4TCNtqSbuttudxctbD6gCLcB/s640/IMG_9545_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We made a move after dinner to our night anchor spot. Our night spot was over deep water again, probably in 35 feet of water, and the fishing was almost non-existent except for one Yellow-tipped Threadfin Bream that Beni caught. I gave up after 1.5 hours and celled it a night at 10pm to end the first day.MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-31960705918337602552016-09-26T18:00:00.000-04:002016-10-02T11:55:49.946-04:00Salmon fishing as good as it getsFirst ever salmon on a bead.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hXSMBqygv1Y/V-m5KETNjjI/AAAAAAAAJts/-TjrnSjM858KeR5ELaVF_6-c1a2P6WqRQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9426_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hXSMBqygv1Y/V-m5KETNjjI/AAAAAAAAJts/-TjrnSjM858KeR5ELaVF_6-c1a2P6WqRQCLcB/s640/IMG_9426_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Big King Salmon on a bead.
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QL0xUsiYEOU/V-m5KqC9jMI/AAAAAAAAJt0/H7N_BpDY2dc034DG-UdjAb9nOmiyVwb9wCLcB/s1600/IMG_9428_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QL0xUsiYEOU/V-m5KqC9jMI/AAAAAAAAJt0/H7N_BpDY2dc034DG-UdjAb9nOmiyVwb9wCLcB/s640/IMG_9428_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Then we picked off aggressive fish in the runs and riffles.
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iY-X01wRDjs/V-m5KZfyeEI/AAAAAAAAJtw/Dgb5KGZuyLMZQw40PjwooDSAZ83oyvtwgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9431_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iY-X01wRDjs/V-m5KZfyeEI/AAAAAAAAJtw/Dgb5KGZuyLMZQw40PjwooDSAZ83oyvtwgCLcB/s640/IMG_9431_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
They loved spoons today.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3VmGNUNHAGU/V-m5MhTQdfI/AAAAAAAAJt4/rVDrHxHoPBQL1SA04DkI77_LM0Kz0L91wCLcB/s1600/IMG_9436_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3VmGNUNHAGU/V-m5MhTQdfI/AAAAAAAAJt4/rVDrHxHoPBQL1SA04DkI77_LM0Kz0L91wCLcB/s640/IMG_9436_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
First Coho Salmon in 10 years...this big colourful male made up for it!
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5GVJqqA4T70/V-m5Pg9R8ZI/AAAAAAAAJuA/7GO6VCFkDcIZdKjBEWw96FzK8HNVdXt5ACLcB/s1600/IMG_9439_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5GVJqqA4T70/V-m5Pg9R8ZI/AAAAAAAAJuA/7GO6VCFkDcIZdKjBEWw96FzK8HNVdXt5ACLcB/s640/IMG_9439_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5Nii7ILcQ-w/V-m5Q_NxKRI/AAAAAAAAJuE/da09CgsDQGoSbygNFM5y9EsI7Akm_99LACLcB/s1600/IMG_9443_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5Nii7ILcQ-w/V-m5Q_NxKRI/AAAAAAAAJuE/da09CgsDQGoSbygNFM5y9EsI7Akm_99LACLcB/s640/IMG_9443_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
We caught so many fish but didn't bother to take many pictures. This was the last fish of the day - a big King Salmon completely engulfed the Kwikfish.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LoPrleM9KtE/V-m5SWBR4MI/AAAAAAAAJuI/Miv1GKebfsUPk6sE3m9gNxqxljH_dm3vQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9446_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LoPrleM9KtE/V-m5SWBR4MI/AAAAAAAAJuI/Miv1GKebfsUPk6sE3m9gNxqxljH_dm3vQCLcB/s640/IMG_9446_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Update (Sep 28):
<p>
The crazy town continues...
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kIU36oT9AkM/V-0_Ob7_4YI/AAAAAAAAJug/w0dBbnFrRAsvVMbt_uwU5kJ_CO-zA29ZACLcB/s1600/IMG_9447_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kIU36oT9AkM/V-0_Ob7_4YI/AAAAAAAAJug/w0dBbnFrRAsvVMbt_uwU5kJ_CO-zA29ZACLcB/s640/IMG_9447_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3rdEHSGTHxg/V-0_QJU6_vI/AAAAAAAAJuk/2Ng4UcOAxeoqyS7NU_VWZxophtS1599YQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9448_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3rdEHSGTHxg/V-0_QJU6_vI/AAAAAAAAJuk/2Ng4UcOAxeoqyS7NU_VWZxophtS1599YQCLcB/s640/IMG_9448_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Update (Oct 1):
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DlrgdAs0W6g/V_BGYH-StoI/AAAAAAAAJvE/4XgvbGyZF_kzk82rrl1kYjJA61zuCRUawCLcB/s1600/IMG_9464_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DlrgdAs0W6g/V_BGYH-StoI/AAAAAAAAJvE/4XgvbGyZF_kzk82rrl1kYjJA61zuCRUawCLcB/s640/IMG_9464_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
Stefano finally landed a salmon!
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lwlF9Ft51YA/V_EtmtDaWvI/AAAAAAAAJvc/G_TqzFXaXaIesLObSoO1Qq7G0Nl83G6YACLcB/s1600/IMG_9457_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lwlF9Ft51YA/V_EtmtDaWvI/AAAAAAAAJvc/G_TqzFXaXaIesLObSoO1Qq7G0Nl83G6YACLcB/s640/IMG_9457_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
This salmon really wanted the bead and took it right down!
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5InTEXWffvI/V_EtpgtYUmI/AAAAAAAAJvg/Gx4_uOHI_mAizfq_RPoJ6LZdURjJfNBCwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9459_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5InTEXWffvI/V_EtpgtYUmI/AAAAAAAAJvg/Gx4_uOHI_mAizfq_RPoJ6LZdURjJfNBCwCLcB/s640/IMG_9459_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-40643013340947528342016-08-27T20:09:00.001-04:002016-08-27T21:01:44.935-04:00Karma and the 100th Canadian speciesAndrea wanted to catch a Trout. He asked his dad Stephano to ask me to take him Trout fishing.
<p>
Alright, Andrea, we'll see what we can do.
<p>
So I picked them up at 5am this morning and Andrea was excited like a kid who wants to catch a Trout.
<p>
But on the way, the 4am alarm puts the little dude to sleep.
<p>
He woke up just to see us pulling into our parking spot.
<p>
A little of a walk later, we were ready to fish. I showed Stephano how to rig up the rods with light lines and small floats. We started fishing.
<p>
It took a while for the fish to respond in the early morning light, but eventually a couple of Creek Chub came to bite. Little dude was pleased.
<p>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vIKtEGV4VVw/V8Ihdr7dwCI/AAAAAAAAJow/t0poLei7M6UbGLtaLoBMgtyy9VFh7MQIwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9271_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vIKtEGV4VVw/V8Ihdr7dwCI/AAAAAAAAJow/t0poLei7M6UbGLtaLoBMgtyy9VFh7MQIwCLcB/s640/IMG_9271_post.jpg" width="480" height="640" /></a>
<p>
Eventually, little dude learned to cast and caught a couple of Creek Chub on his own!
<p>
But little dude wanted Trout. These aren't Trout!
<p>
The Trout were giving us a tough time. We searched high and low, fast and slow...and yet they did not reveal themselves. Finally, I hooked one and handed it off to little dude, but he was too excited and the rod was flinging everywhere while he reeled furiously. Eventually, the line tangled with some branches and the fish shook off.
<p>
We went back to searching for Trout. It took another hour before I hooked another. This time, I made sure little dude was in an open area and as soon as the Trout was within swinging range, it was swung up and onto shore. It's not getting away this time!
<p>
Little dude was very impressed with the beautiful Brown Trout. The fish gods were pleased.
<p>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6f8gBaFgt18/V8IltJ2VimI/AAAAAAAAJo8/mZ8lFK_L8I4NCnfYg5RL19KUDxwaFEBigCLcB/s1600/IMG_9276_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6f8gBaFgt18/V8IltJ2VimI/AAAAAAAAJo8/mZ8lFK_L8I4NCnfYg5RL19KUDxwaFEBigCLcB/s640/IMG_9276_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
After little dude caught his Trout, I changed out the float and simply cast the bait out and let it drift slowly along the bottom. I've netted some baby Sculpin last year. They were only 3/4 inch long and impossible to even target in the habitat where I found them. But knowing there were Sculpin here, I paid more attention to the rocky areas in front of me.
<p>
All of a sudden, I caught a little movement on a rock. Lo and behold, there was a little fish darting on a rock. At first, I thought it was a Darter species, perhaps a Johnny Darter. But the head looked a bit too broad, and the pectoral fins looked too wide. Hm...could this be?
<p>
Instead of catching it myself, I called my friend Kevin over to look at the fish, and suggested that he tried to catch it. He changed his rig to a tanago hook while I kept an eye on the fish. When the bait was finally presented, the fish quickly turned and gulped it up! We thought the hook was set well, but the fish came off halfway up to the surface.
<p>
Fearing that was the only chance, we frantically looked for the new location of the lost fish. Luckily, we found it again almost right on top of the same rock. When the fish saw the bait again, it gulped the fleck of nightcrawler skin greedily yet again. This time, Kevin made no mistake and we had a Sculpin in the micro photo tank!
<p>
But which species was it? Slimy or Mottled? The little fish would not cooperate and we still couldn't determine its identity after looking at it for a minute.
<p>
Well, I just have to catch another one to check. So I grabbed Kevin's rod while he started to photo document the fish. I looked carefully at every crevice, every little sandy patch, every moss covered rock, and finally found another one sitting in between two rocks. It took a little trick to get the bait to the bottom as there was a funny little current that kept pushing my bait off to the side. But when the fleck of nightcrawler skin was put close to the little fish's nose, it gulped it in!
<p>
In one smooth motion, I flicked my wrist to set the hook and then lifted it out onto the grass. Yes! I finally caught a Sculpin in Ontario!!!
<p>
This is a celebratory moment! Ever since I started species fishing, I have been searching creeks and river big and small, and lake shallows far and wide for these Sculpin. I've had zero success for years and years but I had never given up hope. I even spoke to DFO and MNR scientists who collected fish in the past for locations and habitat information...and yet came up empty-handed. A couple of years ago, I saw a flash and a glimpse of what I thought was a sculpin, but I could not identify it without doubt. Then last year, while I was fishing in this location, I was trying to net some micro minnows and dug into a muddy, weedy shallow where I found 3 juvenile Sculpin in the scoop. It gave me hope.
<p>
It is even more awesome that this is my 100th Canadian lifer species. I only know of one other person who has caught 100 species in Canada, and his name is Kazuhiro Fujiki - my fishing sensei - the person who nurtured me into a true species angler and a micro fishing aficionado.
<p>
Thank you little Mottled Sculpin. I am glad that out of all the species in Canada, you are the one that help me reach the century mark. You and I have been trying to get together for a long time, and we finally met!
<p>
Mottled Sculpin (Cottus bairdii) - Species #6hundred3tySomething (depends on further ID of Peru species)...but definitely 100th Canadian species!!!
<p>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-diUftF-xynk/V8IqTJuWIiI/AAAAAAAAJpI/SNOaj67wDBsvlSklZJ-dbkJsYJ7UUbKwwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9289_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-diUftF-xynk/V8IqTJuWIiI/AAAAAAAAJpI/SNOaj67wDBsvlSklZJ-dbkJsYJ7UUbKwwCLcB/s640/IMG_9289_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
The pelvic fins are NOT fused into a suction cup, indicating that this is a Sculpin species and NOT a Round Goby. There are 4 pelvic rays, indicating that this is a Mottled Sculpin and not a Slimy Sculpin (which has 3 pelvic rays).
<p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qwWJqhUtkFU/V8IqYPj8ZtI/AAAAAAAAJpM/k56qh96HJZE-fNUrq7r0L30LADJ_hByZQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9279_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qwWJqhUtkFU/V8IqYPj8ZtI/AAAAAAAAJpM/k56qh96HJZE-fNUrq7r0L30LADJ_hByZQCLcB/s640/IMG_9279_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
<p>
And folks, that's instant karma for taking a child out to catch a fish he wanted to catch. Take a kid fishing!!!MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2354899896086450969.post-7048630765231347082016-08-14T12:00:00.000-04:002016-08-23T20:01:33.482-04:002016 Peru (Day 16)Josh, Joy and I were up early for the 4am taxi. Everything went well and we were on the flight right on schedule. Josh and Joy were off to Cusco while I had a couple of days in Lima before flying home to Toronto.
<p>
As I was picking up my luggage in Lima, I noticed Josh's rod case and Joy's backpack came out on the belt. Josh and Joy told me their luggage should check through to Cusco but there they were on the belt. I waited until everyone left and there were no one to pick them up. I gathered their stuff and brought them to the Avianca office so they can be rechecked at the counter to Cusco.
<p>
With a slight delay, I headed to my hotel in Miraflores. Originally, I had booked a night at a hostel. But it was getting to the end of my trip and I was needing a bit of privacy as well as comfort. Luckily, I found a hotel room on sale that was located close to the coast. It was perfect since I planned to fish the saltwater around Miraflores for the day. I had already achieved my goal to catch a species on my Salkantay hike. I've caught more fish than I can imagine in the Amazon. The last remaining goal on my trip was to catch a saltwater fish from Peru.
<p>
The attendant at the hotel didn't speak English, but somehow he was able to arrange a taxi for me to drop me off at a spot I had mapped out, and pick me up again at 5:30pm.
<p>
However, as I got closer to the fishing location, I noticed there was a security gate. The taxi driver told me were were not allowed in. After some confusion, I found out that my intended fishing spot was located inside a private club that required a reservation to access.
<p>
Luckily, my friend Steve Wozniak has provided me a back up spot. I was instead dropped off at La Rose Nautical restaurant and my taxi would pick me up from there at 5:30pm.
<p>
I had no bait, but I thought it was be possible to find some sand fleas or mussels along the beach. It was too bad that the beach were not sandy but large cobble, and the mussels were small and far out of reach on rocks that were slammed by waves.
<p>
I walked along the beach to a jetty where two families were fishing. I saw one of the father had a bag of sand fleas and tried to ask him where he bought them in English. He only spoke Spanish but somehow knew what I was asking, and the only thing I understood from his respond was "cinco kilometer". I assumed he meant the store was 5km away. He saw my rods and must have known I was a tourist (locals usually fish with hand lines). He grabbed a plastic up that was part of the shoreline garbage, filled an inch of it with sand fleas and handed the cup to me. I couldn't believe he was offering some of his bait to a stranger! I offered him a couple of $1 USD bill but he refused it and simply smiled. When they finished fishing, I gave his sons a couple of Kroc spoons that I had to thank them.
<p>
I rigged up a high-low rig with 1oz bell sinker and #8 hooks. Somehow, on the first cast, I was able to get a bite on the sand flea!
<p>
Giant Blenny (Scartichthys gigas) - Species #629
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0Xxn5VBkg8c/V7px3mvqlcI/AAAAAAAAJm0/AIEDTdV8IGQoeVryqWUGDQkcNSwpDHEmwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9219_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0Xxn5VBkg8c/V7px3mvqlcI/AAAAAAAAJm0/AIEDTdV8IGQoeVryqWUGDQkcNSwpDHEmwCLcB/s640/IMG_9219_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
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However, I soon found it was a challenge fishing the cobble bottom in the heavy surf. If I let the rig sit too long, the surf would eventually knock it into some crevice between the cobble and the sinker would snag. If I fish a lighter sinker and let the rig wash in the current, it wouldn't stay in the strike zone long enough.
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I caught another Giant Blenny within the hour but then the bite stopped. The friendly family had left and I decided to continue my way to the spot Steve had suggested.
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3KRvOYTSiKk/V7p0QZ5jiYI/AAAAAAAAJnA/DWCXluhXololCEYPZos0LPGn4URmbnirQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9263_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3KRvOYTSiKk/V7p0QZ5jiYI/AAAAAAAAJnA/DWCXluhXololCEYPZos0LPGn4URmbnirQCLcB/s640/IMG_9263_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
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There were a few anglers there fishing with hand lines. One of the younger guys tried to talk to me but we couldn't understand each other well. I fished closer to shore but kept snagging up and losing my rigs. When all the other people left, it was a sign that the catching wasn't happening.
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I still have 2 hours until the taxi came to pick me up, so I lingered at the jetty and fished on. Fishing at the end of the jetty, I found a rip current where the bottom was less snag prone and the current was more predictable. I started to get a few bites but I couldn't set the hook into the fish. The sand fleas came back half eaten, so it was a sign that smaller fish were taking the bait.
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I switched to lighter 10lb line and #14 hooks, then picked out small sand fleas about the size of the hook. After missing a couple of bites, I finally hooked the culprit!
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Chalapo Clinid (Labrisomus philippii) - Species #630
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-irPtwvtwNaM/V7p1bLeB2DI/AAAAAAAAJnM/_jlAtg9guckyW8RyInpfulXh4-Hj2mLBgCLcB/s1600/IMG_9232_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-irPtwvtwNaM/V7p1bLeB2DI/AAAAAAAAJnM/_jlAtg9guckyW8RyInpfulXh4-Hj2mLBgCLcB/s640/IMG_9232_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
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I caught a couple of them, and then caught another Blenny with electric blue spots on the back instead of brown spots. I didn't know if they were a different species so I took some photos. However, the ones with blue spots were also Chalapo Clinid.
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yYIp-EsqKiQ/V7p1-H3rhgI/AAAAAAAAJnQ/cDoGspkJkLY8vnXLXfZyngAuCLw_-ql7wCLcB/s1600/IMG_9254_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yYIp-EsqKiQ/V7p1-H3rhgI/AAAAAAAAJnQ/cDoGspkJkLY8vnXLXfZyngAuCLw_-ql7wCLcB/s640/IMG_9254_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
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The young guy later returned with an older guy who was also fishing before. Perhaps they were a father and son duo. As 5pm, the father catch some much larger specimen of the Chalapo Clinid. It appeared that the larger fish started to bite closer to dusk. I would have love to catch some of them, but I didn't want to be late for the taxi and had to leave.
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A parting shot of the Miraflores coastline. The Peruvian engineers didn't seem to think it was an issue putting tall buildings that close to an eroding cliff side. Only time will tell the future of these structures.
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WTj3DXxm-xg/V7p7DARyiSI/AAAAAAAAJnk/jAXLLPqHuXo3ayAu0hYwg1LSEw32ZZGIQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9265_post.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WTj3DXxm-xg/V7p7DARyiSI/AAAAAAAAJnk/jAXLLPqHuXo3ayAu0hYwg1LSEw32ZZGIQCLcB/s640/IMG_9265_post.jpg" width="640" height="480" /></a>
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I was very happy to have caught two saltwater species from Peru. August is winter in Peru and the water was cold. I'm not sure if the surf was always this rough but by the gathering of local crowds watching and photographing surfers along the coast, it may be a less common event. I was told that summer would offer much better fishing along the coast, and I hope that one day I could return to catch some of the more unique and larger saltwater species that Peru has to offer.
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I was originally planning to fish the saltwater for 2 days. However, being unable to speak Spanish meant I couldn't arrange any local fisherman to take me out fishing in deeper water. The surf continued to be rough so I decided to scrap any shore fishing plans. So on that note, I will end the blog on this day.
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I loved my trip to Peru, filled with stunning landscape, unique but living custom, rich history, friendly people and plenty of fish species. I discovered a new level of strength and determination on my Salkantay hike that I hope will come in handy as I prepare for my upcoming thesis defense. I made new friends in Hugo, Anthony and Homer and hoped to see them again in the future. There are much that I would still need to experience in Peru, but I vow to learn some Spanish before returning so won't feel as lost and ignorant as I did on this trip.MuskieBaitAdventureshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10429221341581013775noreply@blogger.com0