Hibiki Fishing: September 2022

Thursday, September 22, 2022

First time out for a not so new ride

Would you believe that it took me almost two years before I was finally able to take out my latest kayak? It's an Old Town Topwater PDL 120. Never been used. I stored it for almost 2 years because of the pandemic.

When I finally had the chance, I took it back home to the province where it belongs -- near the ocean. There, I was finally able to fish with it. My golly, it was worth the wait. It was an absolute beast of a fishing machine. I was able to fish even when the current was strong. I can stay on a spot without effort. The PDL drive and the rudder were a joy to use. I can even stand and cast topwater lures without the fear of falling overboard. And the best part, I can fish longer and farther without getting too tired.

The only downside is its weight. It was so heavy. I can't really transport it frequently without a trailer. I guess it's ok for now since I have plenty of water near my house before I feel the need to find another spot.

I did not catch any fish during the few days I fished with it. I was too busy at that time so I fished only for a couple of hours at a time. Hopefully, when I get back, I can fish with it longer. I can't wait to go back home. As for my other kayak, the Ocean Kayak Prowler 13, I am conflicted about the thought of selling it. It is still a great fishing kayak. Light and fast. Maybe I will keep it for my kids, who knows.

My Version of *Inland Fishing

My fishing outings are relatively limited. Due to resource and time constraints, I mostly fish the inland waters of Luzon, Philippines. Lately, I spend a lot of time fishing places near or around Metro Manila --- the smog-covered capital of the Philippines.

Among the freshwater species that I normally seek are Apahap (Barramundi), Haruan (Snakehead), Toman (Giant Snakehead), Bangus (Milkfish), Tilapia, and Catfish. In the near future, I would like to target Largemouth Bass, Carp, Pacu, and Mekong Catfish.

I also go for saltwater species whenever there's an opportunity. There are a wide variety of salt-water fishes that can be caught around the area but I mostly target Jacks, Snappers, Groupers, and Barracudas from shore, pier, and lately from a Kayak.

Selective Catching and Releasing

What is Catch and Release and why catch and release?

Selective CnR (Catch and Release) is the logical thing to do as recreational anglers. I like to believe that I am an angler and not a fisherman. Fishing for me is catching and enjoying the fight. Whenever possible, I try to release juvenile and breeding adults. I only keep my catch only when it is seriously injured or when it is an introduced or farmed specie. In some cases, I do take home a few for personal consumption.

Because by doing so, I may be able to help preserve our native freshwater fish species and give small fishes a chance to grow and reproduce. Hopefully, by practicing selective C&R, even if the impact is so small, I may be able to fish and catch something for a little while longer.