Make the First Cast Count
Over many years of saltwater flats fishing, a few major lessons creep into one's consciousness. Perhaps the very most important, at least in this writer's experience, is simply this: MAKE THE FIRST CAST COUNT.
In a fishery as diverse and bountiful as the one here at El Pescador, it is easy, very easy to get lulled into a false sense of security. What I mean is that it is normal to expect to get dozens, even hundreds of shots during a day of bone fishing, multiple shots at tarpon and permit. Knowing that you may have many shots, what's the big deal with "making the first cast count?" Well I'll tell you ... you just never know when the next fish may be a 100 pound tarpon, a 20 pound permit or a 6 pound bonefish. As a result, it never pays to relax when you are on the bow of the boat looking for fish. The next fish you see may be the fish of a lifetime -- so let's be ready.
When this fish shows itself to you, the very best chance you will have is the very first cast. This cast gives you the chance to surprise the fish, before the fish gets spooky. By the second or third cast, your fish of a lifetime begins to get the sense that something's amiss, and the chance is often blown. Practice making the first cast count in your backyard. One or two false casts and bang ...m hit your spot.
"Make the first cast count" is a very useful mantra to have as you board the flats boats on the dock each morning. Use it and live it and enjoy the great fulfillment of realizing those dreams of landing the big one, rather than talking about the one that got away.
Bob is the fishing host at El Pescador Lodge
If you have any questions, comments or simply want to extend this subject, just send an email to bob [at] elpescador.com .
