got2dive@aol.com
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im looking to spearfishing the oil rigs in gulf of mexico either out of texas or loiusiana would like to do a live aboard doesnt anyone know any boats that do this
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got2dive@aol.com:im looking to spearfishing the oil rigs in gulf of mexico either out of texas or loiusiana would like to do a live aboard doesnt anyone know any boats that do this
got2dive@aol.com:im looking to spearfishing the oil rigs in gulf of mexico either out of texas or loiusiana would like to do a live aboard doesnt anyone know any boats that do this
ROCK BOTTOM:I may be partial, but skip the charter boat out of Galveston (Ultra dive). They offer a two dive trip; by the time I drive to the marina and make a run to the rigs, I want more than two dives at a rig in 100 fsw. Plus there is no mention of speardiving. Ask about that in advance. Also, the trips to the Flower Gardens are a crock of @#$%. From the last conversation that I had with the marine biologist who watches over the FG, spearing is illegal but having spear gear isnt.; its just unwanted. Those FG charters are nazis about their precious little dive spot. They essentially blocked spearos without any scientific basis so they could limit the competition on their turf. Regardless, the diving there is marginal at best.
As far as rigs being off limits, thats not entirely true. Only a few critical rigs are off limits due to the elevated security levels but the majority of platforms are open to diving. Find the noisiest, most active rigs with as many down pipes as possible without getting in the way of the work boats. Active rigs hold more fish for some reason. They will let you know via VHF or by signaling you from the platform when you need to move. Avoid climbing on the rigs because they are private property.
Depending on depth and location, they generally hold all of the major reef species such as Cobia, Amberjack, Groupers, Snappers, Barracuda and many other species. You can kill all you want by scuba or freediving but you have to rig your guns specifically for rig hunting.
Jump off points include Cocodrie, Port Fourchon, Grand Isle and Venice. Venice provides the biggest variety because of its location to the Mississippi River and the edge of the continental shelf and loop current. Grand Isle and Fourchon have shorter runs but are exposed to more weather variables and Cocodrie has the longest run to get past the shallows. Avoid Charlie Hardeson & Sons. The old man died several years ago and I have heard too many anti-spearo comments out of the son that runs the business. They dont cater to spearos and feel that we are the competition, therefore contra to their business.
The only dive charter I know of that takes scuba spearos is Capt. Troy Wetzell out of Venice Marina. The boat is a bit slow but you get four full dives on some very fishy rigs. Check out his listing at www.rodnreel.com . If you are a freediver you can probably find a ride with Capt. Allen Walker with Xtreme Fishing or also Capt. Bill Delabar.
Lastly, the barnacles grow longer than your thumb and about twice the diameter. They will cut you if you even look at them funny. Full exposure protection includes long sleeves and pants, gloves and even a hood if you have cute little earlobes that look like triggerfish food. Cable on your gun is a must if you want to land any fish over 10#.
Zz