Port A Trip Hotel - July 20th-22nd

[Isis]

Hello everyone... for those who are interested in staying for Friday and Saturday night for the Port A trip that is planned for July 20th-22nd with MARSH, MAAST and DFWMAS, here is the hotel (http://www.thetarponinn.com) we are looking to stay at. It is called the Tarpon Inn, and it has a pool and nice backyard for our BBQ. Please check the rooms out and their room rates, which are really great for that time of year, let alone for staying on the island during peak season. Please post here if you are interested in staying there. MARSH has arranged a discounted rate (15% off the listed price), so all payments will need to be made to us directly in order for us to get it, which we will have set up soon.

We also have a set of rooms blocked at the Captain's Quarters (http://www.portalodging.com/) for $258 for the weekend. All the rooms come with 2 queens and are non-smoking. Every guest gets a continental breakfast, as well as access to their pool. The hotel is just a couple blocks from the Tarpon Inn, so you can walk to the BBQ for Saturday.

There is a third location that we are staying at called the La Palma Villa (http://www.lapalmavilla.com/), which is located next door to the Tarpon Inn. Their rooms are private and are $218 for the weekend. There is a common living area and kitchen, but every room has their own key for privacy.

Here is a list of rooms that are available, those that are taken have names by them. If you would like one of these rooms, please PM me with the room you would like, along with at least a 2nd and 3rd option in case the one you ask for is taken by someone else who got their PM in before you. I will try to update this frequently so that there is little discrepancy. We ask that you make payment via check, mailed to MARSH or given to a MARSH BOD at a club meeting or event. If you would rather pay via PayPal, then we will have to charge a small percentage to cover PayPal fees. Payment needs to be recieved by no later than mid-May, unless otherwise arranged, so we can release to others who would like to go.

The Tarpon Inn (ONLY 3 rooms and 1 suite avilable!!!)
#16 -->double full $190 (Rich and Dawn Cotter, MARSH) ***PAID***
#17 -->double twin $155 (Steve and Cheri Byrd, MAAST) ***PAID***
#18 -->single full $155 (Shiang, MARSH) ***PAID***
#19 -->single full $155
#20 -->single full $155 (Melodie Sandbach) ***PAID***
#21 -->Premium Queen $207 (Kim and Mark Lowe, MARSH) ***PAID***
#23 -->Premium Queen $207 (Steve and Cheri Byrd, MAAST) ***PAID***
#24 -->single full $155
#25 -->Premium Queen $207 (Monica, MARSH) ***PAID***
#26 -->single queen $175 (Frederick and Melinda, MAAST) ***PAID***
#29 -->Upstairs Corner Suite $320(David Beck, MAAST) ***PAID***
#30 -->Larger Queen $190 (Ram_puppy, MAAST) ***PAID***
#31 -->single full $155 (Brad Brookner, MARSH) ***PAID***
#32 -->single full $155 (Mark Pandenell, MARSH) ***PAID***
#33 -->single full $155 (John Richter, MARSH) ***PAID***
#34 -->single full $155 (jhand, MARSH) ***PAID***
#35 -->double twin $155 (Nick and Joann Fults, MARSH) ***PAID***
#36 -->Single Full $155 (Frank and Colleen Krockenberger, MARSH) ***PAID***
#37 -->single queen $175 (Mike and Sam Leang, MARSH) ***PAID***
#38 -->double twin $155 (Mark Bailey, MARSH) ***PAID***
#39 -->Premium Queen $207 (Shane and Tina Vanderburg, MARSH) ***PAID***
#40 -->single full $155
#42 -->Fisherman’s Room $275 ** (Mike Pawlowski, MAAST) ***PAID***
FDR --> $445 ***

** The Fisherman's Room sleeps at least 4. There are 3 twin beds in one room and a queen size bed in the other room.
***The FDR also can sleep more than 2 if desired, as there is a king size bed in the bedroom and a trundle, that can be 2 twin beds or one full bed.

Staying at the Villa La Palma (7 rooms available) (ONLY 1 room available!!)
Angel*Fish (MARSH) ***PAID***
open
John Gilbert (MAAST) ***PAID***
John Gilbert (MAAST) ***PAID***
Garrett & Mayme Blanton (MAAST) ***PAID***
Dale McQuirk (MAAST) ***PAID***
Dale McQuirk (MAAST) ***PAID***

Staying at the Captain's Quarter's (No more rooms available!!!!)
KEG (MARSH)
Rick (DFWMAS)

Please send all payments to:

Kim Lowe
c/o MARSH
4306 Spoonbill Drive
Seabrook, TX 77586

You can send payment made to MARSH in the form of check or cashier's check or money order.

Be sure to note with the payment, your name, club, web name and room number.

[brewercm]

PM'd
Is this the same place that you had last year? I couldn't remember the name but it looks like it, just possibly the other building.

[TroyPham]

shoot, i'm out this year, It falls on my gf bday. I was looking forward to going too.

[Isis]

It is actually the inn next door to the bunglaow we got next year. Since there was so many people who came last year, we decided to look into this place to accomodated our BBQ, plus there is a pool, as well as centralizing the group.

BTW, I got your PM.
PM'd
Is this the same place that you had last year? I couldn't remember the name but it looks like it, just possibly the other building.

[Isis]

Room requests have been updated.

[Isis]

List updated.

[brewercm]

shoot, i'm out this year, It falls on my gf bday. I was looking forward to going too.

Just tell her that you're taking her to the coast for her birthday and splurge and get the FDR room. ;)

We had lots of fun last year folks and this place was great, within walking distance to some great eating places and not too far a walk to the beach and Jettis.

[TroyPham]

shoot, i'm out this year, It falls on my gf bday. I was looking forward to going too.

Just tell her that you're taking her to the coast for her birthday and splurge and get the FDR room. ;)

We had lots of fun last year folks and this place was great, within walking distance to some great eating places and not too far a walk to the beach and Jettis.

I wish it was that easy. If I go to the coast, she knows it is for fishing, and she's not gonna go for that. Not on her b-day.

We did have a good time last year. Steve puts on a hell of a BBQ. I guess i'm gonna have to send the ghost shrimp pump out with someone this year.

[brewercm]

That was a blast actually watching that thing work and it did a great job of sucking them babies up. Don't you live down there in Corpus if I remember correctly? Maybe I'm confusing my Troys.

[aggie4231]

i have a ghost shrimp pump. i actually need to work on it, the suction is starting to lose its power.

[TroyPham]

Cliff,

i moved to houston in sept. and miss being on the coast. Justin, it might be the leather that is getting worn out. it is easy to fix.

if anyone wants to by one, you can pick one up at Roy's for 20 bucks i belive.
if you have time you can build one for less then 5 bucks.

[Isis]

I have just found out the occupancy for the Fisherman's Room and FDR room can have more, so though who want to split the cost can do that. Here is what I added to the list:

#42 -->Fisherman’s Room $275 ***
FDR --> $445 ***

*** The Fisherman's Room sleeps at least 4. There are 3 twin beds in one room and a queen size bed in the other room. The FDR also can sleep more than 2 if desired, as there is a king size bed in the bedroom and a trundle, that can be 2 twin beds or one full bed.

[BIGBIRD123]

Kim, then change me to the Fisherman's room #42 instead of the other two (#17 & #23) This will save me a few $$.

[Isis]

Kim, then change me to the Fisherman's room #42 instead of the other two (#17 & #23) This will save me a few $$.I have a request for that room already. I am waiting confirmation, but I will let you know.

[Isis]

From one of our members...


For those of you who are thinking "I don't need to get any peppermint shrimp, why should I go", that's not all you can catch. Here is a picture of a little guy that my wife caught floating along in the sargasum last year while in waist deep water.
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y45/KrAs/seahorses/th_seamonkey.jpg (http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y45/KrAs/seahorses/seamonkey.jpg)
It's an H. Erectus who has acclimated over to tank life perfectly, he eats frozen mysis like it's nobody's business. This is just a small sample of the diverse life you will find by the jetty, so don't think shrimp is all you will find. Plus, and most importantly, it's a hell-uv-allot of fun.

[brewercm]

Just curious if you know how many the Suite will sleep. I had gotten it thinking that I may have more than me and my wife coming, just in case. If not I'll just tell them they have to stay behind. :D

[Isis]

Just curious if you know how many the Suite will sleep. I had gotten it thinking that I may have more than me and my wife coming, just in case. If not I'll just tell them they have to stay behind. :DThe corner suite has just the queen.

[brewercm]

Go ahad and change mine to the FDR for now then I suppose.

[Isis]

Go ahad and change mine to the FDR for now then I suppose.Okie dokie.

[caferacermike]

Fisherman's room has been confirmed.

[Isis]

List updated.

[Isis]

Updated again.

[SoLiD]

Ahhhhhh. Welcome to my world.

BTW Isis... I LOVE LAMP, TOO. -SoLiD

[Isis]

Just wanted to keep you all posted... There are only 8 rooms left, so if you are wanting to go and don't have the money yet, you have until mid-May or June to pay for the room. If you need to cancel, you can do that and still get a refund, but I ask that you don't reserve a room unless you are sure you want to go. Remember, the dollar amount listed for each room is the TOTAL amount for both Friday and Saturday nights, including tax.

We are still going to have a BBQ on Saturday afternoon at the pool, and we will even do a bonfire on the beach Friday night. You are more than welcome todo anything you want while you are there, but we will be doing a collection at night for those who are interested.

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask here.

[brewercm]

FISHING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :D

[Isis]

FISHING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :DOh yeah... There will be plenty of that. Last year we say the charter boats bringing in sharks from off shore.

[caferacermike]

I was really interested in the aquarium tour of last year, wish I had made it.

Please post the address to send remiitance.

[Isis]

Please send all payments to:

Kim Lowe
c/o MARSH
4306 Spoonbill Drive
Seabrook, TX 77586

You can send payment made to MARSH in the form of check or cashier's check or money order.

Be sure to note with the payment, your name, club, web name and room number.

[Isis]

Updated.

[Darth-Tater]

My wife and I would like
#30 -->Larger Queen $190
Pm sent

David

[Isis]

Gotach down and updated list.

[Isis]

Only 6 rooms remaining, so be sure to reserve your room soon.

[Isis]

All rooms are taken!! If I don't have you listed with your real name, please send it to me so I can have it listed correctly with the hotel when I give them the names of who occupies what rooms.

Also, if you are interested in coming and want us to help get you a group rate, please send me a PM so I can look into it if there is enough interest. There is also a villa next door that we can rent out if there is enough people who want to do it.

[brewercm]

Ahhh man. Looks like MARSH is kicking our butts on turnout for this great function and they have to drive at least an hour longer. Hopefully we have a nice MAAST turnout for this event and they are just staying elsewhere.
Hope to see a whole lot of MAAST folks there, and lets get some fishing done while we're there also. :skeezy

[caferacermike]

I'll bet the folks that sign on late could still reserve a room at regular rates. Maybe if you ask nicely they might let you have a room at the special rates.

[Isis]

I'll bet the folks that sign on late could still reserve a room at regular rates. Maybe if you ask nicely they might let you have a room at the special rates.The whole hotel is booked by what is listed above and there isn't any other rooms available. So basically, the whole hotel is all of us who are coming down for the trip. For those who still want to go and get a room, please PM me ASAP so I can arrange another group rate at another hotel.

[caferacermike]

Oh haha, better luck next time.

Glad I got in when I did. My check should be to you by Sat.

[Isis]

I have received a few checks, of which I will post who has paid as I receive them. I will post the ones I have received soon.

If you would like me to inquire about another group rate at another hotel nearby, please PM as soon as you know you would like to go so I can start doing some calling around.

[Isis]

I have updated with those who have paid. I will be depositing the checks soon.

[Darth-Tater]

Sorry we have to bow out of the trip. We are heading for Alaska


DT

[KyleV]

Sorry to hear but I'll take yours then

PM sent Kim

[apedroza]

I want to go. I will see about setting up some accomadations for me and my family.

[txstateunivreefer]

well im joining charter this week intime for this months meeting someone pm me what this trip is all about off shore fishing got my attention lmk

[Isis]

I want to go. I will see about setting up some accomadations for me and my family.If you want, I can add you to the list of others who want me to get another group rate going? Let me know so I can add you to the list.

[apedroza]

Yes please add me to the list.

[Isis]

well im joining charter this week intime for this months meeting someone pm me what this trip is all about off shore fishing got my attention lmkBasically, Friday everyone meets up in Port A at various times. If we can get some firewood, we will have another bonfire on the beach. Last year we just sat around the fire BSing, and talking about whatever. Saturday everyone pretty much did what they wanted in the morning and afternoon, but some people got together to go to the aquarium, Corpus Christi, etc. About 4pm, we will all get together at the Tarpon Inn in the back by the pool for a BBQ and such. After that, around 7pm, we will head to the jetties to start the trek down to the end for the collection. Mostly people look for peppermint shrimps, but they also end up getting a few other critters along the way. We all have a great time every year, and it is fun to socialize with the various clubs in Texas.

I would like to add some other group events this year, but we will see how it goes.

[aggie4231]

most of the party boats that go offshore, will get back to the docks around 4pm. they usually leave early in the morning around 7 or 8am. during the summer these fill up fairly fast, so dont expect to show up at the dock saturday and sign up the same day to go fishing. If people are interested, i can get the info and post it on the marsh site.

[Isis]

most of the party boats that go offshore, will get back to the docks around 4pm. they usually leave early in the morning around 7 or 8am. during the summer these fill up fairly fast, so dont expect to show up at the dock saturday and sign up the same day to go fishing. If people are interested, i can get the info and post it on the marsh site.That would be awesome!!!

[Isis]

We are going to book the villa next to the inn, which has 7 private rooms, with a common area and common kitchen. The total cost for the room for both nights is $218. Each room has a full size bed with closet and bathroom, as well as their own key to lock their room and unlock the main door. If you would like one of these rooms, please let me know ASAP. If you currently have a hotel room reserved and want to move to the villa, please let me know. If you want the villa, I will need to receive payment soon after reservation since it is required by the management company.

I will post pics soon and a link when I get the website address.

[apedroza]

Put me down for a room. Are there others staying in the villa? If it doen's fill up lmk so I can book other accomodations.

[Isis]

Here is a couple of links that show the villa...

http://www.coastadv.com/st-free.asp?Property=13801
http://lapalmavilla.com/

I have let a few others know of the villa, and waiting for a response. If anyone wants to stay there, please let me know ASAP!

[BIGBIRD123]

Everyone, this is the place where had the event last year. A very nice place to stay for the money and next door to the event center. We just out-grew the place. I hope to see everyone there this year and this has been a pleasure each time. Please reserve your place soon. This is an event you don't want to pass up!

Steve

[Isis]

Updated with those interested staying at the Villa La Palma. If you want to stay there, please let me know ASAP since there are only 5 rooms left.

[apedroza]

Just need to know how many people to a room? It will be me my wife and my 2 kids. Will they allow all of us in 1 room??

[Isis]

Just need to know how many people to a room? It will be me my wife and my 2 kids. Will they allow all of us in 1 room??Yup... it is just a matter of you figuring where everyone will sleep. In the past, the parents slept in the bed, while the kiddos slept on the floor in a sleeping bag.

[Isis]

Updated... there are three rooms left at the villa.

[Isis]

Two rooms left at the villa...

[apedroza]

Thanks for the info. Do you only take checks?? OR will you take paypal?

[Isis]

Thanks for the info. Do you only take checks?? OR will you take paypal?We can do paypal, but we will have to charge the percentage we incur for paypal fees. Right now the room costs are not including that.

[Isis]

All rooms at the villa are gone.

If you would like me to get a group rate, or put you on the list to be notified if someone backs out, please PM me. First come first serve...

If you haven't sent me payment, you have until May to get it to me, but I will be in San Antonio in March if you would like to personally give it to me.

I will keep you all updated as time goes by.

Regards,

Kim

[Isis]

For those who really want to pay via paypal, please PM me. I will get you the total, which will include the paypal fees.

[SoLiD]

I can't wait for you guys to get here. Just what exactly does everyone do when they get here. Do they just collect fish and shrimp from the jetties. Everyone LMK. -SoLiD

[Isis]

That is basically what we do... On Friday, one of our members wants to play some poker (maybe we can bring a margharita machine too ;) )

[brewercm]

I'm in for some poker.

[SoLiD]

That sounds cool. I and about 5 other friends are in for some Texas Hold'em. We've been to poker hosts houses that have up to 4 full tables playing tourney style for 1 pot. It gets really ridiculous.

[brewercm]

We have a group that does that once every month. Then there are other little games here and there (usually on weekends). Lots of fun.

[Isis]

I updated those who have paid.

Please be sure to send your payment by May 1st, or your room will be released. There are several people on a waiting list, so it will be first payment recieved gets the room after the May 1st deadline passes.

[Texreefer]

can you put my wife and i down on the waiting list

[Isis]

can you put my wife and i down on the waiting listWill do.

[erikharrison]

we are staying in our family's condo, it's cool for us to come by correct? there will be four of us.

[Isis]

we are staying in our family's condo, it's cool for us to come by correct? there will be four of us.Sure will. We have the whole hotel, so when a schedule is figured out, we will post it so everyone will know where we are at.

[apedroza]

Does anyone know if using seine nets are allowed?? I have one I used in a marine biology class and you can catch some great things with it. At the tiem every student had a collector's permit , but is it ok to use it with out one??

[aggie4231]

yes and no. the only ones you ca nuse without a scientific permit are ones that you can get at Academy. Just plain 5-20 ft long sienes. Without the permits you also can't use a siene with a bag section in the middle.

But do remember, anybody who is coming down and plans to collect anything or makes an attempt at collecting, to purchase a fishing license with the saltwater option. More than likely we wont be checked by game wardens, but ethically and technically you should have one. Not a plug or anything, but the money from the license goes towards research along the coast and helps pay game wardens.

[Isis]

Reminder, the deadline is May 1st. If your payment isn't received by then, your room will be released for those who pay first!

[caferacermike]

Can someone post good nets to buy? I'm excited and want to start "gearing up". Thanks.

[prof]

I like the ones with the really small holes in them.... :)

[caferacermike]

Right, thanks. Joker..... How about I show up and youse and me go out with our brine shrimp nets? Nothing will get out of those....lol.... Punk..

But where is a good place to get large nets with little holes? Don't most places sell "landing" nets that have large holes?

cast nets, any good?
seines? Yes, no?
dip nets... What and where?

I'll be bringing kayaks if there are back water fresh water outlets to look for seahorses, pipe fish frogfish etc..

[aggie4231]

acadamy usually has good nets. I got one that is short, and the netting is inserted into the metal hoop. I think the total length of the net is 2ft. It should cost around $8. There are plenty of back water areas. Along the island, there are several old silted up passes. These areas usually are very good seagrass bed habitats. We really don't have too many frogfish or similar fish. Most will be sargassum anglers.

[erikharrison]

woo hoo can't waittttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt! We're going to the coast this weekend, and I can't wait for that either!!!

[caferacermike]

Sargassum anglers are what I'm interested in looking for, that and I've heard of a few pipe fishes in the area from time to time..

[aggie4231]

the pipefish here, you can find just about anywhere along the coast where there are grass beds. When I was in my field Ichthyology class @ Texas A&M in Galveston, we used this neat little net to go through the grass beds. The guy who basically invented it, collected seahorses in Florida and put himself through college that way. Next time I go to Houston, Im going to try to see if I can copy the design from my professor who has the net.

[SoLiD]

Seahorses are hard to find down here. :huh I have a spot in Corpus Christi that I catch about 5-15 pipefish everytime I go. :D They range between 4-8 inches in length. And boy do they wipe out your pod populaion. When the weather is warmer I use the same net at the same location to catch feeder grass shrimp (not to be confused for ghost shrimp). One 15-25 foot walking pass with the net and presto; you got about 200 grass shrimp. I bring about 100 shrimp home and keep them in a 2.5 gallon aqaurium. My fish go nuts over these little guys. I like to fatten the shrimp up with nori and pellet food before they WALK THE MILE. And in turn my fish get fat them selves. :) -SoLiD

[SoLiD]

I catch every thing using a net I bought a Academy last year. Please forgive me for the terrible picture as after 1 hour of serious looking it was the only one I could find. Hope this helps. ;) -SoLid

Remember, you are looking for BAIT NETS as the netting is much smaller than FISH LANDING NETS. Just FYI.

[SoLiD]

I'm gonna do some Kayaking soon to find the best spots for collecting. I'll try to make it sooner than later.

[SoLiD]

Check these out too.

http://www.jannsnetcraft.com/bait-dealer-nets/

http://www.frabill.com/cgi-bin/frabill/3529?store=spring

http://www.aquaticeco.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/product.detail/iid/3225/cid/926

[SoLiD]

I'll be bringing kayaks if there are back water fresh water outlets to look for seahorses, pipe fish frogfish etc..

Look at a map of Port Aransas. It's part of a chain of narrow islands. I doubt you'll find fresh water, but I've located some back area's on my kayak close by to go collecting other marine life. When I found these spots it was still pretty cold. I'm gonna hit those spots soon and report what I find. -SoLiD

[caferacermike]

I shoulda put one of these "/" between back water/freshwater inlets so as not to say that all of them are fresh water drains. You sound like you have the exact ideas for places I'll be looking for.

Anyone interested in tagging along I might have an extra boat. I'll be bringing 2 and there is a good chance my girl would rather hang at the beach than paddle through mud looking for critters.

[SoLiD]

All you collectors will need an air pump that looks something like this to keep your catch alive. 2 Duracel D-cell batteries can last up to 36 hours non-stop. I know first hand that they last at least 2 1/2 days from personal experiance.

http://www.aquatichouse.com/Pumps_files/ppbatpump.asp

[erikharrison]

we went to a bait shop under the causeway and picked up a net like that with about a 1 1/2' handle for 5 dollars! I think we're going to rent a tandem from our office and we will be tagging along with David. We found so much stuff at the jettys, it was really cool!

[erikharrison]

oh yeah, to keep our stuff alive, I put it in the sun during the day in a cooler, and did water changes throughout the day. If you all will not be staying right on the water, get the batt powered air pump from above, they sell them locally. If you do get one local though, make sure you buy GOOD batteries, as the ones the LBS (local bait shop ;) ) will give you are dollar store, cheap batteries!

[SoLiD]

You could do multiple water changes during the day. But what about through out the night :unsure . That might work for hermits and anemones but thats about it. Most fish and shrimp will need a constant amount of oxygen considering the amount of total marine life that will be sharing the same bucket(s). A small ice pack in the water will also help to keep a higher saturation of oxygen in your water. But don't over do it and freeze the little guys. -SoLiD

[taldrich13]

I'll be scuba diving off the jetty like I did last year. I can't wait!

[Isis]

You could do multiple water changes during the day. But what about through out the night :unsure . That might work for hermits and anemones but thats about it. Most fish and shrimp will need a constant amount of oxygen considering the amount of total marine life that will be sharing the same bucket(s). A small ice pack in the water will also help to keep a higher saturation of oxygen in your water. But don't over do it and freeze the little guys. -SoLiDWhen we had the shrimp, the majority lived if not all because we all had airstones. Plus since we were collecting the night before we left, the fish and other critters did pretty well. The only things that don't seem to fare well are the sea whips.

[Isis]

I have updated the list for those who have paid or have notified me of their payment on the way. If you are sending it soon, please let me know. If you would like to pay via PayPal, please PM me so I can get you the amount, which will include the paypal fees.

[Isis]

Just to let you all know, that if your payment isn't recieved via paypal by May 1st (please make sure you contact me first before doing this!!), or you have not notified me of your payment on the way by May 1st (that is, it is in the mail by then), there will be others who can take the room if they pay before you. I currently have a waiting list of 5 other people ready to take the unclaimed rooms. If you would like to give up your room, please let me know so that one of the 5 can get it.

[aggie4231]

Since most everybody who is getting a room will be here the whole weekend, if you want, I can find things for ya'll to go see or do.
For starters, those that would like to go offshore fishing here is one of the places I recommend. My family used to go fishing with this place from the time we started going to Port A, until my grandparents got their own boat. I can't remember a time when I didn't go to see the catch they brought in on the boats, and not see anybody without at least 2 or more fish. Here is the link to the site. http://www.deepseaheadquarters.com/index.php
Click trip info for pricing.

[SoLiD]

That's a great deal. Hey aggie, does your grandmother still want me to paint your tank stand white? Black doesn't fit in around your grandparents house. :lol

[erikharrison]

When we had the shrimp, the majority lived if not all because we all had airstones. Plus since we were collecting the night before we left, the fish and other critters did pretty well. The only things that don't seem to fare well are the sea whips.


agreed, shrimp will not fare well. Messy lil bastids! What are sea whips? I saw a bunch of yellow things that looked like gorgonians, but they were stringy, like a cucumber. They had white polyps all over like a gorgo.

[brewercm]

That sounds like the sea whips that you find out there.

[BIGBIRD123]

Look like yellow pieces of rope.

Steve

[BIGBIRD123]

The Peps are sensitive but if you change your water out before you leave, you will have a better success rate.

Steve

[apedroza]

OK looks like I won't be able to make the trip afterall. My sister is planning a birthday party for my mom that same weekend and we will be heading to Lubbock. Next person in line for rooms please let Kim (Isis) know.

[Isis]

OK looks like I won't be able to make the trip afterall. My sister is planning a birthday party for my mom that same weekend and we will be heading to Lubbock. Next person in line for rooms please let Kim (Isis) know.I have already contacted that person, so if they decline, I will move on to the next person.

[Isis]

Updated.

[Isis]

I was asked about the trip from someone who hasn't been before, so here is what I posted on DFWMAS...


In a nut shell, a bunch of us fish geeks head to Port A for one thing, to collect a butt load of peppermint shrimp. Friday is when everyone arrives, and at night we will do a few different things. Last year we had a bon fire and just BSed until about midnight on the beach. This year we may do the same, but there may also be a poker game going too for those who like that kind of thing. Saturday morning and afternoon are what you plan with your family, friends or other reefers. Last year some stayed on the beach to fly kites, some when to Corpus to see the aquarium, some collected on the beach and jetties (of which one of our MARSHians got a seahorse, and others came home with pipefish), some scuba-dived or free-dived the jetties, and the others did something else. This year is about the same, except our hotel has a pool and since we occupy the whole thing, those who want to get away from the sand, can hand at the hotel pool with whoever else from the group. Like last year, we will have a BBQ around 4-6pm, but this time it will be by the hotel's pool. Everyone coming is welcome, but only the food will be covered for MARSHians and MAASTards, so all DFWMAS folk will have to pay for their food, which I believe will be $7-10 each person, unless the club wants to cover all of you. Just before dusk, those who want to collect will head to the jetty and begin the long trek, which is about 1.5 miles. As soon as sun sets, the fun begins. We usually head back around 10pm, upon which most of us crash, but others will stay up BSing and having a good time. Sunday, everyone leaves.

Hope this helps!!

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask here or on the MARSH site.

[Isis]

Updated.

[Isis]

I need someone who would like to be the designated Keeper of the Bonfire. I hauled a couple hundred pounds of fire wood last year in my little Sentra, and I don't think the gal can handle it again. I am thinking that we will need a nice amount of fire wood since we have so many people this year. Perhaps two people with trucks will need to haul it all. If you would like to help make our bonfire a good one, please let me know.

[Isis]

The FDR room has just become available!!!

It costs $445 for the weekend, including taxes. The FDR also can sleep more than 2 if desired, as there is a king size bed in the bedroom and a trundle, that can be 2 twin beds or one full bed.

If you would like to take that room, please PM me ASAP. If you can't pay the full amount up front, I will allow for a deposit of half on this room since it is twice as much. The remaining amount will be due by June 1st.

If you would like to see what the room looks like, please vist
this site (http://www.thetarponinn.com/). If you have any questions, please feel free to PM me or ask here.

[Isis]

Just a friendly reminder that payments need to be recieved by Tuesday, May 1st in order for you to keep dibs on your room at the Tarpon Inn or La Palma Vista. If you are planning on paying via check by mail, please be sure to drop it in the mail no later than Monday and immediately PM if you have done so. If I don't have notice of the check being sent, then I will not hold the room so it will get passed on to the next person in line. If possible, please pay via Paypal, so be sure to PM me for the correct pricing since there is a few extra dollars added because of the paypal fees we incur.

Currently we have a block of rooms available at the Captain's Quarters, so if you would be interested in staying there, please PM me. Each room is $129 per night (this includes taxes), so $258 for the two nights. The rooms are double queens, non-smoking and all have a continental breakfast in the morning. There is a hotel pool, and the hotel is located a couple blocks from the Tarpon Inn, which is where the Saturday BBQ will be taking place. If you are currently booked at the Tarpon Inn and would like to switch to the Captain's Quarters, please let me know now.

[Isis]

I have updated the list... please be sure to check if you are listed for PAID.

[Willow]

I won't be going.. but I am wondering about something... how in the heck to you get the anemones if they are attached to a rock?

[Isis]

I won't be going.. but I am wondering about something... how in the heck to you get the anemones if they are attached to a rock?Mess with their foot until the let go. Some will just grab the rock if it is small enough.

[BIGBIRD123]

There is a new trick to try...

Take a squirt bottle of cold FW and squirt at their foot and they should let go. I works really well on detaching clams.

Steve

[Willow]

I'll have to make notes of that for when I finally manage to get to the coast!

Thanks for the info!!!

[Isis]

Updated.

There are only a few rooms unpaid at this time, so if you want to get one of the unpaid rooms, please PM me.

[Isis]

The following rooms are available for the trip, so if you want the room, please PM me. First person to claim it and to send in payment gets it.

Tarpon Inn (all prices are total after check in Friday, check out Sunday):
#29 --> $320
#30 --> $190
#40 --> $155
FRD Suite (sleeps up to six if desired) --> $445

La Palma Villa:
one room available ($218 for check-in Friday, check-out Sunday)

Captain's Quarters:
10 rooms ($129 per night, after taxes)

[Isis]

Rooms #30 and #40 have been claimed. Pending payment.


The following rooms are available for the trip, so if you want the room, please PM me. First person to claim it and to send in payment gets it.

Tarpon Inn (all prices are total after check in Friday, check out Sunday):
#29 --> $320
#30 --> $190 pending
#40 --> $155 pending
FRD Suite (sleeps up to six if desired) --> $445

La Palma Villa:
one room available ($218 for check-in Friday, check-out Sunday)

Captain's Quarters:
10 rooms ($129 per night, after taxes)

[Isis]

I have updated the list with all current payments recieved, and those not recieved. If you haven't sent in payment, please send in payment as soon as you can.

We only have one room available at the villa next door, which we will need to fill as soon as possible. There are only two room left at the Tarpon Inn, #30 and the FDR suite. There are still several rooms available at the Captain's Quarters, so if you are interested, please let me know.

[Isis]

#40 is now available, #30 is taken.

[erebus]

Pm sent for room #40 if it's still open.

[Isis]

Pm sent for room #40 if it's still open.PM sent.

[Isis]

We have one room at the villa available that we MUST fill. If you would like the room, please let me know. If you are interested and can't pay the $218 in full, but can do two payments of half, then that would be awesome. If you want it... PM me.

[Isis]

We still have one room available at the La Palma Villa, with a possibility of a second coming available. We must have these filled since we are paying for it regardless. If you are interested in one or both, please me ASAP.

[Isis]

We still have some rooms available for those who want to stay in the villa and captain's quarters.

Also, we now have a thread created for those who want to arrange group events outside the other stuff... like fishing and such...

See here for more details... (http://www.marshreef.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=22555)

[BIGBIRD123]

If anyone is interested in diving, then send me a PM and I will get you in touch with others that want to the same.

Steve

[Isis]

#19, #20 and #24 are available to those who can pay for them first... please PM me for details.

[Isis]

Here are a list of items that we will be raffling:

Seio Electronic Controller for model 1100-1500- and 2600 donated by ADG (http://www.aquariumdesigngroup.com/) (sponsor of MARSH)
http://www.marinedepot.com/md_viewItem.asp?idproduct=TA3771
2 x Seio Super Flow Pumps Model 620 donated by ADG (http://www.aquariumdesigngroup.com/) (sponsor of MARSH)
Metal Halide set-up, retail value of $400 donated by Coralreef Bazaar (http://www.coralreefbazaar.com/?osCsid=1284ccddbe4a84f9a73c77b7bee376b1&osCsid=12 84ccddbe4a84f9a73c77b7bee376b1) (sponsor of MAAST)
2 x Kent pro scrappers donated by Ocean Homes (http://www.oceanhomesetc.com/) (sponsor of MARSH)
2 x Deep Six Hydrometers donated by Ocean Homes (http://www.oceanhomesetc.com/) (sponsor of MARSH)
1 Mag Float 125 donated by Ocean Homes (http://www.oceanhomesetc.com/) (sponsor of MARSH)
Auto Top Deluxe High/Low donated by Top-Off.com (http://www.top-off.com/) (sponsor of MARSH)
http://www.top-off.com/viewitem.php?it_id=21
The following sponsors of MAAST are donating as well, but the prizes will be determined later...
Aquatek (http://www.aquatektropical.com/)
CB Pets (http://www.cbpets.com)
RiverCity Aquatics

[Isis]

Just and FYI... we are up to about 90 people RSVPing for the trip, so if you still want to go. We still have rooms available.

[Isis]

There are only 3 rooms (#19, #24 & #40) and 1 suite (FDR suite) available at the Tarpon Inn. The rooms are $155 for the weekend (Friday and Saturday nights) and the suite is $445 for the weekend. There is also one room left at the La Palma Villa, which is only $218 for the weekend. If you want any of these rooms, please let me know ASAP. All the rooms at the Tarpon Inn will be released back to the hotel for use on Monday, July 15th, so the discount prices we are getting will no longer be available.

[Isis]

This is the final list for those staying at the hotels we booked. There are no rooms available at the Tarpon Inn, so the only thing available is the one room left at the La Palma Villa. If you want it, please PM me soon.

The Tarpon Inn
#16 -->double full $190 (Rich and Dawn Cotter, MARSH)
#17 -->double twin $155 (Steve and Cheri Byrd, MAAST)
#18 -->single full $155 (Ryan Shiang, MARSH)
#19 -->single full $155 (Kim Fredrick, MARSH)
#20 -->single full $155 (Melodie Sandbach)
#21 -->Premium Queen $207 (Kim and Mark Lowe, MARSH)
#23 -->Premium Queen $207 (Steve and Cheri Byrd, MAAST)
#24 -->single full $155 NOT AVAILABLE!!, booked by hotel
#25 -->Premium Queen $207 (Monica Dockery, MARSH)
#26 -->single queen $175 (Frederick and Melinda, MAAST)
#29 -->Upstairs Corner Suite $320(David Beck, MAAST)
#30 -->Larger Queen $190 (Ram_puppy, MAAST)
#31 -->single full $155 (Brad Brookner, MARSH)
#32 -->single full $155 (Mark Pandenell, MARSH)
#33 -->single full $155 (John Richter, MARSH)
#34 -->single full $155 (John Anderson, MARSH)
#35 -->double twin $155 (Nick Fults, MARSH)
#36 -->Single Full $155 (Frank and Colleen Krockenberger, MARSH)
#37 -->single queen $175 (Mike and Sam Leang, MARSH)
#38 -->double twin $155 (Rich & Dawn Cotter, MARSH)
#39 -->Premium Queen $207 (Shane and Tina Vanderburg, MARSH)
#40 -->single full $155
#42 -->Fisherman’s Room $275 ** (Mike Pawlowski, MAAST)
FDR --> $445 ***

***The FDR also can sleep more than 2 if desired, as there is a king size bed in the bedroom and a trundle, that can be 2 twin beds or one full bed.

Staying at the Villa La Palma (7 rooms available) (ONLY 1 room available!!)
Angel*Fish (MARSH)
open
John Gilbert (MAAST)
John Gilbert (MAAST)
Garrett & Mayme Blanton (MAAST)
Dale McQuirk (MAAST)
Dale McQuirk (MAAST)

Staying at the Captain's Quarter's
KEG (MARSH)
Rick (DFWMAS)

[tropicana]

How much is the room at the Villa La Palma?

[BIGBIRD123]

It's $218 for the weekend.

[Isis]

The FDR suite is still available at the hotel if anyone is interested in splitting the room fees with other people, which it can since it has 3 beds... 1 king, and 2 twins.