Perdido Bay Sportfishing

03/28/2026

So, I took the First Strike out for a test of the re-wire yesterday. With a touch of apprehension, we left the confines of the marina and began to run on-the-water tests of all electrical systems. I experienced a bit of anxiety when the autopilot gave a "no rudder signal" message, and began to go through the possible causes; then I thought maybe the internal memory of the autopilot had been lost after having been disconnected since just before Christmas. I decided to re-commission the autopilot as though it had just been installed. After a few anxious moments, it gave me a message that the commissioning was successful.

Then I attempted to set the autopilot to follow a line to a distant buoy and lo and behold, it tracked perfectly to the mark. The only other problem found during the testing was that the livewell pump was not pumping. The motor was running but no water was flowing. After pulling the pump out, we found that the impeller had rusted off the shaft due to salt water. I replaced the pump this morning and now the only thing in the way of some serious fishing is getting the boat clean. After three months under our oak trees, it is quite a mess. Should be ready to whack 'em and stack 'em sometime after the weekend.

Such a great feeling of relief and a great sense of accomplishment is completing this job. Thanks to Jason Hughes and Wayne Cook for helping me out here and there.

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03/18/2026

Just winding up a complete re-wire of the First Strike's electrical system. Jupiter's quality never ceases to amaze me. After 25 years, the re-wire was due, but I was surprised at how good the original wiring was. While I found the usual and expected corrosion issues, I found only one serious wiring issue(insulation punctured in one spot on a wire about half way between the console and stern.

Now to start prepping for a trip to Cudjoe Key! Planning on exercising the First Strike every day that the weather allows.

08/20/2024

Turn off the light, the party's over. I have sold my federal permits and am officially out of business. It's been a great ride--but time to enjoy whatever is next. Thanks to everyone who trusted us to take them fishing. We appreciated it so much.!

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08/20/2024

LMAO--Channel markers are called channel markers for a reason--they are placed along the "sides" of the channel--for a reason!!!!!🤣

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05/06/2024

My federal fisheries permits are once again available. The ad is back up on Marketplace. Send me a direct message if interested. Thanks.

04/28/2024

After much consideration, I have decided to retire(again), this time from chartering. I have loved every single minute of time spent with all of you. Unfortunately, this is a younger man's business these days and this old body needs a rest. This venture had been my dream since college and with your help I was able to make it come true. Thanks for having placed your confidence in me over the years.

As of this time, my federal Gulf of Mexico reef and pelagic permits are for sale. If you know of anyone who might be interested, contact me at 270-853-7464.

04/18/2024

I just found out that the Foley Beach Express toll bridge at Orange Beach has been sold to the state of Alabama. Tolls will end on the Friday before Memorial Day at noon. Great news!!!

04/11/2024

and one more----

04/10/2024

04/10/2024

Found this today--The Lady In the Lakes was destroyed by hurricane Sally, but she was rebuilt and re-introduced to the boat basin.

04/10/2024

The Gulf Council has just announced that amberjack season will be open May 1, 2024 through May 31, 2024, and will possibly re-open for September and October. More to come.