EVER BEEN 'SNOOKIN’ ?
                                                                                       By Bob Jamison

          If you have been ‘snooking’ and had any luck and have eaten them you might be a tad bit healthier than those of us that probably eat more red meat and carbs than we should.

          High fat diet has been touted in the annals of caution particularly for modern Americans. Other qualities of aquaculture products such as fish are said to be among the top health foods we can consume. However, moderation and individual responsibility combined with consultation with dietitians and medical advice is, of course, primary consideration.

          Snook is the classic fish for food and entertainment is found in abundance in the warm waters of the south Atlantic coast line, Central America, Florida and westward to the lower coast of Texas. Why, just like the multitudes of “snow birds” (our human friends from the north) flock to the warm coastal waters, so do many species of fish swim to sub tropical comfort.

          When you hear exciting tales of the newly discovered art of fishing by some, you immediately think of bass. They hit lures on the surface and cause a terrific show. Snook are similar as they do the same thing to lures. However, when you tie into a Snook that can weigh up to about 50 pounds, you really know you have something worthwhile. On the other hand if you happen to be in an area of catch-and-release only the entertainment factor alone is unforgettable.

          From the health standpoint, much has been written about the healthful qualities of cold water ocean fish (of the North West and north eastern U.S.A. and Canada). They are a bit different than the fish of the south, yet they deserve attention as well.

          Aquaculture is a growing industry throughout the world for the increasing interest in healthful diets gained from fish. Talapia is one of those interesting lovers of warm water as it has firm and tasty white meat. But, the mortality rate of Tilapia fish is extremely high if the water temperature goes below 50F degrees.

          Heated buildings containing tanks are often used by commercial interest that raises Tilapia. Then in the spring the fish are moved to open areas of water reservoirs that are ideal for seining harvest. These fish are not for sport fishermen except for the dinner table. They hardly bite a hook. In fact, they are most beneficial to private pond owners as they produce an amazing amount of spawn. Estimates show that they can spawn thousands of fry once a month until cold weather hits and the benefit of feeding your pond fish such as bass is most important.

          Not only does Tilapia help grow big fat bass, they delight in devouring noxious weeds such as duck weed, filamentous algae and WOW, mosquito larvae.

          If fishing or eating fish is on your horizon, take a few minutes to call up fishing guide services of our coastal waters on the internet or any large magazines catering to the sportsman. Guides (called captains usually) will quickly advise you of what’s good for your trip. Off shore boats are fun, clean and comfortable for the most part. A reputable captain on board will certainly add to your success.

          They will tell you that Snook fishing in the shallow lagoons and shore lines might be the thing that will excite the spirit of the chase in most anyone, male or female, young or old alike. Also, they’ll tell you that they are temperamental and tend to have a closed mouth reputation in cooler waters from approaching winter.

          If you choose the crisp weather and beautiful hills of coastal Oregon for Sturgeon, Salmon and other cold water fish or the excitement of fun in the sun of sunny Florida, take it from an old barnacle legged salt and go fishing. It’s good for you!