Tuesday, July 16, 2019

Almost Tarpon Rodeo Time...

If you're like me, it's been weeks perhaps months since you've been fishing.  The opening of the Bonne Carre Spillway was great for stabilizing  river levels, however, it has proven to be a disaster for local fishermen in Lake Pontchartrain and waterways east of the Mississippi River. The huge volume of fresh water flowing into the Lake daily has lowered salinity levels where trout flee back out into the open Gulf.  Until the Spillway is closed (might take another 7-10 days), finding trout east of the River will remain a challenge. Still, I know many of you are chomping at the bit to put some fish in the freezer and I have just the opportunity for you.  Beginning NEXT Thursday, the International Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo kicks off for 3 days ending in a great trophy presentation Saturday night under the Air Conditioned Pavilion on the far east end of the Island.  There are 22 different categories with the winning fish in each category receiving a $50 Safeway gift certificate plus a beautiful trophy.   By buying a registration ticket, you also get the chance to win a 22 ft. bay boat with Mercury motor & trailer.  Just Google Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo and follow the links.

With Barry gone, our weather returned to basic summertime, hot & humid with spotty showers.  The South Shore stayed mostly dry and the next 2 days look like rain chances (20%) will be below normal.  Chances(30-40%)will increase over the weekend but there is no indication for widespread heavy rains for the next 5-7 days.  In fact, models going out 10-14 days show no tropical activity, which is to be expected for the end of July.   Our hurricane climatology tells us "prime time" begins in August & September quickly falling off as we enter the cool fronts of October.   Geez, that sounds nice...the cool fronts of October. Those could be the lyrics to a song?    Should call Peyton Manning and Kenny Chesney.  I might be on to something?   Nah!  Stay tuned!

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