When to Stick It to a Flounder: A Gigging Guide
So, you wanna get your hands dirty (or, more accurately, your gig in a fish)? You're itching to join the hallowed ranks of flounder giggers, huh? Well, buckle up, partner, because we're about to dive into the murky waters of flounder gigging season in Texas.
The Flounder Run: It's Not Just a Marathon
Now, let's get one thing straight: flounder are available year-round in the Lone Star State. But if you're looking for an adrenaline-pumping, fish-flinging good time, you wanna be there for the Flounder Run. This is when our flatfish friends decide to embark on a mass migration to the Gulf of Mexico, and it's like the Super Bowl of flounder fishing.
Typically, the Flounder Run happens between October and December. It's a time when the water cools down a bit, and those sneaky flounders start making their way to deeper waters. This is when gigging becomes a real sport. It's like a high-stakes game of underwater hide-and-seek, but with pointy sticks.
But Wait, There's a Catch!
Before you start sharpening your gig and planning your boat trip, there's a little hiccup. Texas Parks and Wildlife, in their infinite wisdom (or maybe just to keep us on our toes), has decided to impose a flounder fishing closure from November 1st to December 14th. So, while the Flounder Run is in full swing, you're stuck watching from the sidelines. It's like having a front-row seat to a buffet but being on a strict diet.
So, When Can I Actually Gig a Flounder?
Let's recap:
- October: Prime time for gigging. Get out there and show those flounders who's boss!
- November 1st to December 14th: Hands off! Let the flounder population recover.
- December 15th onwards: The gigging is back on!
How to Master the Art of Flounder Gigging
Alright, you've got the timing down. Now let's talk about actually catching these slippery suckers.
How to choose the right gig: Opt for a gig with multiple tines for better chances of landing your target.How to find the flounder: Look for shadows in shallow, clear water. That's where your prey is hiding.How to make the perfect strike: Aim for the head and strike with precision. It's like underwater darts.How to handle your catch: Be careful! Those spines can do some damage.How to clean a flounder: Filet it or fry it whole - your call. But make sure it's fresh!
So, there you have it. The lowdown on flounder gigging season in Texas. It's a thrilling adventure, but remember to respect the regulations and the fish. Now go out there and catch 'em big!
