Every angler is looking for a tactical advantage over the game fish they are hunting… albeit utilizing an ultra-quiet technical poling skiff, the latest long-distance casting set-up, or the application of some super bait ,that supposedly, the fish never refuse.  But often anglers ignore camouflaging themselves… wearing clothing or head gear that contrasts with the environment usually results in many missed opportunities! Conversely, by blending into your surroundings you give yourself the chance to make a much better presentation to your target and before the fish is even aware of your presence.  Below are a few guidelines I use to become a “fishing ninja”.

Since stalking fish in clear shallow water has become so popular, over the last few decades, it has been increasingly more difficult to slip into accurate casting range.  Over time, I have developed several strategies to help close the gap between me and my wary target… usually Mr. Redfish.  I start by dressing the part of the hunter… if I’m fishing open grass flats with blue skies, I might wear a powder blue fishing shirt with maybe light colored shorts or pants to create less contrast.  And then for backcountry fishing excursions, I might choose sage green or khaki colored clothing to blend in with the mangrove lined bays & creeks… by disguising myself, I’m able to make multiple precision casts to my target fish.  Another tactic I like to employ while stalking fish is keeping the sun behind me, just like a fighter pilot, I see the fish before they see me!  This method works best when the sun is a little higher on the horizon if the sun is too low you have to be careful not to create a silhouette of yourself. Finally, no exaggerated body movements, this is a lot like hunting wild turkeys, stay still and look with your eyes when movement is necessary do it very slowly, ninja-like! 

Apply these “fishing ninja” tips and you’ll close the distance between you and the fish you want to catch… the law of averages and your increased confidence will do the rest. Tiger Woods wears a red shirt on Sundays if you are stalking wary fish you better wear a blue one!

Assisting anglers to achieve more success and reach their goals, through one-on-one instruction, has always been a passion for Capt. C.A. Richardson.  His unique teaching style and professional manner puts his clients at ease and ready to learn the finer points of inshore fishing.  With more than ten years of pro-level tour experience… he’s ready to share with you the tips, strategies, and secrets used on the pro tours and on the ever popular Flats Class TV show.  Capt. C.A. Richardson not only spends countless hours teaching and guiding clients in various locales but is available and performs dozens of speaking engagements throughout the Gulf coast.  Come join him for a day of “on the water” instruction that will make you the angler you’ve always wanted to be!