Thread: << Local Tourist???

Thanks for the info everyone!!! I apologize for coming across in a defensive way. It was not my intention to upset anyone, or to stir any pots. I actually came here for help. I may have a hard time explaining myself/feelings at times and that was what came to mind at the time, again, I apologize. "Having good gear and knowing what to do doesn't make you stuck up", that isn't exactly what I meant. I guess the best way to describe it, is how I felt years ago in high school. I went to a very rich high school where the parents bought all their kids name brand clothing and brand new vehicles and what not. I was one of the unfortunate who could not afford all this. So I was one of the kids there that got bullied cause I wasn't wearing the right stuff, or driving the coolest vehicle. This experience sorta felt the same way. I mean I was the only one there before more people came out, so I didn't like squeeze into a group of people. I wasn't being rude to anyone, and I was fishing straight out in front of me, and was aware of where my line was at all times. One thing I don't know about, and that I must have missed were the yellow lines? Deep down inside I wish there was a pier manual for dummies lol cause I could have used it. I at least know that when I pick a fishing spot, that this is where I am fishing; not at a 45deg angle over there or whatever, cause you're usually not the only one fishing. I respect everyone's space. I know some of you might be thinking, why or how is this your first time fishing on this pier? I moved here to southern Alabama 15 years ago. I did fish a little when I moved here, but not long after moving here, I joined the Army, and served 10 years. When I came back I couldn't get a job due to my PTSD; I also had a very difficult time adjusting back into civilian life, which I'm still adjusting but i'm way better than I was lol. The only choice I had at the time was going to truck driving school and going over the road. I now work locally, but during those times I never had time to get out there to do what I really lover to do, which is fish. I'm sorry this is long, but I feel as if I need to fully explain myself, because I know I can be a confusing person. And yes Pier#r there is a difference, and thank you for your correction. I'm not trying to sound or be perfect, but I'm doing my best; trust me I can and will admit that I make lots of mistakes, but I always try to make as few as possible. Boodro and PerdidoHunter, your awesome thanks!! I needed to hear that! I'm hoping this reply will untangle any confusion and help you guys get to know me better. I really am a nice guy. If this reply is also a fail I promise will leave the forums, I'm really not here to cause any problems. I guess I'll go ahead and apologize for my spelling, or grammar issues. I hope you at least understand what I am saying. Thanks!!!

GREAT COMMENTS ALL.

WATCH, LISTEN , FOLLOW.

leave HAPPY.

So, did you say they were catching spanish???? Did you happen to notice what color? Was it near the toilet or out on the end?

From experience, when a hot Spanish bite is going, it isn't a good time to be asking advice and learning how. As short a supply as Spanish runs have been lately, even more so. If you were fishing on bottom in the middle of that, when the action was on top with bubble rigs, you were going to cause tangles in the dark, which won't make you popular. At all. If they didn't stop to have a conversation, it was because the fish were "on".

When you look up and the old men are at the rail looking excited and flailing away....don't expect a lot of talk. Something good is happening. If you have the stuff to fish like they are, then jump in. If not, then go to j&m. The bite will probably be over when you get back but you will be ready for the next round.

Try again. Good luck. Post pictures.

Thanks for replying, Thatoneguy. I know I've been in your shoes and I think everybody feels like an outsider when doing something for the first time (except for one notable exception a very long time ago), like starting a new job or moving to a new place.

Rich1 has some excellent comments, especially as regards when there is a hot Spanish bite on bubble rigs---it is by far the best choice to get out your own bubble rig and get to it. You will catch more fish and have more fun than if you insist on doing things your own way where you weren't having much luck anyhow.

When I first started pier fishing a few years ago, I thought I knew a lot about fishing---and I did, but there was a lot about PIER FISHING that I had to learn. Man, I'd been fishing all my life and had been a charter boat captain for fifteen years, so what could a bunch of pier rats know that I had to learn? Plenty! First and foremost is pier etiquette---we all catch more fish when we fish together---I created some memorable tangles, but I humbly apologized and did my best to learn, and the pier rats were generally forgiving and helpful, and I tried to pay attention to their comments. It has paid off for me and I've made a lot of friends and caught a lot of fish with their help. If there is one place in this sorry old world where there is very little snobbery, it's on the Gulf Shores Fishing Pier.

Keep coming back. Don't be afraid to ask questions and keep your ears open. When I was a kid, my mama told me, "To have friends, you have to be one." She was right.

Due to the hot weather and upcoming surgery, it will be a while before I spend much time on the pier, but if you see my cart with the yellow "Haywire" flag on it, come by and say hello, and I'll tell you a fish story.

Hang in there with the PTSD.

On behalf of my family and myself, I wish to Thank You for your service to my country, Thatoneguy. Your post was not long, nor was it boring. I read it more than once. Get back out there and fish; it will get better and better. Especially when you can pick the times when the crowds are thin, and the temps drop. Post us some pics, if you would be so kind. A great many of us are not close to our favorite fishin' hole, and only get to keep up from far, far away. Smooth drags to ya.

I see that you said you did 10 years. I was active army out of high school and went to both Iraq and Afghanistan (10th mountain) also and just got out two years ago and starting to fish again. The PTSD is a Bit$% and I have realized that fishing does help with it and it does get better with time. I am glad you got the driving job as I cannot work either as I battle my own demons. But if you ever want to hit the surf or the point just pm me or if you need some help let me know and hopefully I can point you in the right direction.

Thank you much you guys!!! I'll let you know the time I'm heading that way again! I could sure use the help. Thanks Bodebum, Haywire, and Perdidohunter!

Well said, thatoneguy. I'm sure you can find some one to hook you up with the right materials next time. Heck, maybe even a long sleeve dry-fit shirt with a fish picture on it!

Mike Peacher from Panama city area wrote a great book on pier fishing. He gives detailed info for gear, knots, leaders, hooks, bait etc. He also discusses catching the different species of fish. You can contact him thru the panhandle site as long as it's up...the owner says he's shutting it down the end of july. He self published it, so I figure you can only get it from him. It is worth it. Great info.

His book was available in the Navarre pier house, but I have not been there in a while.