[norbvr]

Some firsts I need guidence with :

My first SOT is scheduled for delivery this week. Of course, I'm on call for the next bit, but that will give me time to get it set up proper like.

When I get able to roam abit, I hope to take it down to the ICW (mostly it will fish lakes/ponds here in the middle of the state). I'm thinking of putting in off of Fish Factory road (IIRC the spot correctly)and my questions are...

What would I expect to catch in the area?

What rigs? I'm used to bass/pan fish rigs so this is all new to me

Is there a route I can take from putting in as mentioned above, let the wife spend the day messing about the area and she meet me farther down near South Port?

I should dig out my ICW guide, but I'm not sure it will give me insight for kayaks.

Thanks!

Peter

Edit to correct speeling error

 

[Chiefly Fly'n]

You should find a nice variety of fish...it's a good area: drum, trout, flounder etc. As far as rigs, you'll find some great suggestions on this forum for popping-cork setups and lead-head jigs with Gulp products; some good suggestions for addding scent like Pro-cure to lures and baits; and some suggestions on top-water walk-the-dog lures. Well worth the effort to go back and review old threads on lures and on the area. As I recall, as you turn down Fish Factory road, there is a tackle shop on the right and you may find a good bit of local knowledge and guidance there.

There are a bunch of channels etc. to explore and fish, especially on the opposite side of the ICW...pay attention to the tides... As far as I know, the only route to Southport is paddling the ICW...which can be a little "interesting" with big cruisers etc.

Since this is your first SOT, I recommend studying up on self-rescue techniques and practice them in fresh water and have some other rescue-related gear like whisle, light, VHF radio, chart of the area or smartphone app, antibiotic cream for cuts, protective footwear, insect repellent, paddle tether/spare paddle etc... when venturing into saltwater areas. Also read up on anchoring/stake out poles.

 

[norbvr]

Thanks! I've been checking out as suggested. I'll be spending time getting used to my SOT at the local ponds prior to launching in the ICW. I've spent years in sit-in type and even a bit of white water in the mountains. I've already got the radios and maps from a prior existance.

I aprreciate the response and sage advice. Thanks!

Peter

 

[norbvr]

Still practicing. But I think I have all I need sorted out and loaded for fishing. Need a different cooler. Really liking the SOT!