Insights from Fisherman Extraordinaire (according to himself)
Jim Whittaker

Introduction

I was asked by Steve Seitz (OBV Yacht Club Commodore 2008-2009) to set out a few notes for the benefit of anyone wanting to fish in the environs of Old Bridge. In writing this, I very much appreciate the help given to me by fishing buddies Dan and Chuck, who have had to tolerate my company in a confined space for hours but who still come back for more!

This document is divided into the following topics which you can browse as you wish. Just double-click on the red highlights. You can also view/download the entire document here.

• The Ten Fishing Commandments
  
  
• Where to Fish Around the Village
  
  
• Fish found in OBV Canals: (click below on "red" species name)
  
  • When to catch them
  • How to recognize them
  • Size
  • Game qualitities
  • Food value
  • Tackle & bait

Crevalle Jack	Mangrove or Black Snapper or Mango Snapper
Gafftopsail catfish or Sail cat or Gafftop	Mayan Cyclid
Hardhead Catfish, Seacat or Sea Catfish	Snook
Ladyfish or Skipjack	Stingray
Redfish or Drum	Other Fish

• Where to Fish in the Caloosahatchee (click on "red species names)

In addition to the species caught in the canals,  we have caught the following species on the river, usually during the warmer months of January to September.

See notes on individual fish for hints on where they can be found.

Alligator Gar	Remora
Black Tip Shark	Spanish Mackeral
Largetooth Sawfish	Speckled Seatrout
Nassau Grouper	Whiting or Kingfish

• And a few other essentials....(click heading for valuable information)

• First Considerations when river fishing
• The best times to fish: Weather and Tides
• Breakdowns and First Aid
• Legal Matters
• Public Fishing Piers and Boat Ramps