my first attempt at bug hunting

[tenacious]

I took the advice posted in one of my other thread and contacted Steve-O from Treasure coast dive charters in Ft. pierce. We headed out for an afternoon trip despite 3 other guys bailing. That was a very stand up move in my opinion. I doubt a whole lot of charter boats would have left the dock with 1 passenger, thanks again Steve!
The other guys bailing did give me the opportunity to get a one on one lesson from a pro, which was great. We broke the inlet and headed for the first of many stops. My first attempt didn't go great, the bug ended up with a haircut and its freedom... next try and I was successful, but the bug was too small to bag...
We bounced around to a few more spots, but there were either small bugs or the area was totally picked clean. I got to play with some bugs and see how they act underwater while being poked with a stick which was good for me.
I learned a ton since 6 hours ago I had never seen a bug let alone caught one. Steve gave me a ton of info, tips, tricks, etc. I now feel like I actually have a chance to pluck dinner from the reefs. Steve definitely knows his $hit and today wont be my last time on his boat.

vis varied between what I would call 15-25ft depending on where we were.
water temp was 70ish
nothing made the cooler, but plenty made it to my brain, so it was a real good day.

my hats off to Steve-oh, he tried his ass off and took the time to educate a new guy all while on a trip that most guys wouldn't have taken.

 

[iamrushman]

sounds like you had a great time....congrats on your first bug hunting affair....there's always next time before the end of march to get your six.

 

[iluvtheocean]

yup... and i would check out Chiefy's book "Catching the Bug" -- you can pick it up at most dive shops around here. Lots of good information and Chiefy does seminars closer to mini-season.

3 basic techniques i've seen people use:
1:bare handed
2: net & ticklestick
3: snare.

ALWAYS CHECK FOR EGGS BEFORE YOU EXIT THE WATER -- use a light if you need to. it's not worth the trouble.... FWC can and will check and the have the same enforcement powers as a state trooper.