Rick Hale
Rick’s Bait Shop
904.372.4689

News you may have missed from Rick Hale, “The Fishing Connection” and “The Gone Fishing” radio show.

First Algae Blooms Reported in NE Florida

Reports from the St. Johns Riverkeeper has said there has been a significant algae bloom in the lower basin of the St. Johns, including areas of East Palatka, Welaka and Satsuma.  Minor blooms have also been reported in Jacksonville, along the Riverwalk and in the Arlington River.

Jimmy Orth, spokesman for the Riverkeeper wrote in the release, "This is the time of year when homeowners are fertilizing their yards, which leads to more nutrient loading in our waterways. Nitrogen and phosphorous are what fuel the algal growth that leads to the blooms."

The Riverkeeper will notify the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and urge it to take more samples and test for toxins and potential health risks.  The toxins from the blooms can cause serious health problems.

Net Ban Passed 24 Years Ago

It is hard to believe that it has been 24 years this July that Florida's net ban law was passed by a 72% vote margin of Florida residents. One of the most controversial conservation measures in state history banned gillnets and devastated livelihoods in small coastal towns throughout Florida.

The sportfishing community pushed hard for the ban, lead by the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) and Karl Wickstrom, publisher of Florida Sportsman.  They stated that commercial fishermen were harming mullet, seatrout and other fish populations beyond repair, as well as killing sea turtles, birds and dolphins accidentally ensnared in their nets.

Is the ban working? Most biologists think so but can't prove so for sure and say it depends on the species.  Among the fish talked about most in relation to the ban is mullet.  Since the ban, commercial landings of mullet have declined by 68%, before the ban they were catching 25 million pounds a year, after the ban they are now catching 8 million pounds a year.

I read many articles on the results of the ban, I for one feel the ban has helped.

Mobile Trailer Repair Joining Mobile Engine Repair

Another area of the marine service business is now becoming mobile, you can now have your boat trailer service at you house. For many years now you have been able to call and have your boat motor serviced at your home or wherever you store it.  This is such a great service not to be forced to take your boat across town to have it worked on.  I personally use Shark-A-Tech Mobile Marine Service and he comes to me, does great work and is licensed and insured.

Now if I have trailer problems, I will no longer need to have my trailer towed at a high price, I will be able to call Big Jim at Fat Cat Trailer Repair and he will come to my home.  Jim closed his shop where he

was located for over 20 years and decided to come to you.  He stated this gives him the opportunity to work and concentrate on one trailer at a time.  You can still call Jim at 904-284-1727

Jacksonville Beach Pier

It may be known as the Jacksonville Beach Pier, but it is really controlled by the city of Jacksonville.  In my opinion this been handled in the most horrible way possible.  Not only poor management, it has taken almost three years to get plans Jacksonville Beach Pier It may be known as the Jacksonville Beach Pier, but it is really controlled by the city of Jacksonville.  In my opinion this been handled in the most horrible way possible. Not only poor management, it has taken almost three years to get plans approved.

The last word I got was plans approved, going out for bid next month.  Once bid is awarded, expect 10-12 months of construction.

I am hoping after reconstruction that the city of Jacksonville Beach will take control of the pier.  I feel that will treat the area like Jacksonville treats the area around the football stadium, with some respect.

Stop by for a visit.  You’ll always hear the latest at Rick’s Bait Shop, 224 20th St. N, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250.

Rick Hale
Rick’s Bait Shop
904.372.4689