Just as the whole world seems turned upside down by a virus, there remains a calming truth – Fishing season has begun!
Due to fear of the Covid-19, many folks are forced to stay home from work and practice social distancing. This can be boring and downright depressing, but I have a solution. First, turn off the news! Stop worrying about catching a virus and start thinking about catching a fish.
Nature has provided us all with a safe place where the fragrance of salt air and the sound of gulls will heal all worries.
As I pen this article, my thoughts drift to “Big Mouth Billy Bass” the famous singing fish that became the craze just over 20 years ago. Unsuspecting passers-by would be startled as the fish on the wall serenaded them with “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin and “Take Me To The River” by Al Green. Whether you enjoy bird watching, kayaking or fishing, let’s adopt those positive thoughts – Don’t worry, head to the water.
Let’s Talk Fishing
Due to an unseasonably warm winter, water temperatures rose quickly this spring in the bay and river waters. With temperatures reaching the upper 50s by mid-April, species such as speckled trout and striped bass began an early run.
Virginia has closed the spring striped bass season for the second year in a row. It will not reopen until May 16 and will continue through June 15. Sizes are limited to fish between 20 and 28 inches with a possession limit of one per person. Speckled trout action is well under way with limits of five fish per person, a minimum size of 14 inches and only one fish may exceed 24 inches. This fishery lends itself well to kayaks and near shore fishing.
Bluefish, arriving in mid -May, range in the 1-3 pound class. Bluefish offer a great fight on light tackle with chumming, trolling and jigging all providing great action.
Cobia will show up in the region during the month of May due to quickly rising water temperatures. Unfortunately, the season doesn’t open until June 1. If you catch a cobia during the month, enjoy the fantastic fight and carefully release it to become a future catch.
As we approach summer and everyone returns to their normal routines, concerns will fade but memories of time spent on the water, alone or with family, will be cherished for a lifetime. Don’t worry, be happy.
Now, let’s all catch the ‘bug’ to go fishing and enjoy the outdoors.
Capt. Billy Pipkin owns and operates Ingram Bay Marina and Capt. Billy’s Charter Service located at the mouth of the Great Wicomico River. (804) 580-7292 www.captbillyscharters.com
