4th Annual Big Bird/Port A Collection and BBQ Trip

[aggie4231]

Howdy Ya'll

We would like to extend an invatation to MAAST, ARC, DFWMAS, and MARSH members to the 4th Annual Big Bird/Port A Collection and BBQ Trip.


This years Trip hopes to be good. We Tentatively have it scheduled for July 25-27(Friday-Sunday). We are still working on Hotel Details and the Food Details. We will have a bonfire Friday night, food and the night collection on Saturday. Also, we hope to be giving away some raffle prizes at the dinner.



If you have questions send a pm or email to justin@marshreef.com

[RayAllen]

Oh boy, ive been wondering when it would happen again.

[Kristy]

Sounds cool! What kinds of things have people collected on past trips?

-Mike (& Kristy)

[BIGBIRD123]

Bout time I chime in...There is a lot of things collected from peppermint shrimp which is what most people go for to Molly Miller Blennies, Gobies,Porcelain crabs, Emerald crabs and others. The year before last a Seahorse was caught and last year two Raccoon Butterflies were caught. This has always been a blast and gets bigger every year. The first yr was about 15, 2nd yr was about 45 and last yr was over 100. It has always been a pleasure to host this with the help being more prevalent each year. Justin glad to have you helping with this this year. Please send me your number and we can talk this weekend.

I hope to see everyone there this year...

Steve

[fjr_wertheimber]

Count Cory and I in! :-)

[aggie4231]

Bout time I chime in...There is a lot of things collected from peppermint shrimp which is what most people go for to Molly Miller Blennies, Gobies,Porcelain crabs, Emerald crabs and others. The year before last a Seahorse was caught and last year two Raccoon Butterflies were caught. This has always been a blast and gets bigger every year. The first yr was about 15, 2nd yr was about 45 and last yr was over 100. It has always been a pleasure to host this with the help being more prevalent each year. Justin glad to have you helping with this this year. Please send me your number and we can talk this weekend.

I hope to see everyone there this year...

Steve

Actually I know they aren't raccoons. They are probably spotfins. Those were juvies, which look similar to raccoons. Here is a link to them http://www.etropicals.com/product/prod_Display.cfm?siteid=41&pCatId=1314 .
My boss has collected these offshore.

PM Sent.

[envy]

really intersted in it but how much will the cost be for two. keep me posted.
thank you
andrew

[BIGBIRD123]

Those weren't what they caught...I personally saw them and if they weren't Raccoons, they're a new species. Not trying to be anti-anything but I've had a couple of Raccoons and these looked exactly like them...just really small. I'll get a hold of the people that caught them and get a picture.

S

[aggie4231]

Steve I have the ID book for Fishes of the Gulf of Mexico, and there aren't any raccoons in the book. I have several editions of the book. Also, I took Marine Bio at TAMU-Galveston, with classes in ichthyology. Here is the DFS link to raccoons http://liveaquaria.com/product/prod_Display.cfm?pCatId=299 . Remember those were very small juvies. The juvies don't get full coloration. I also saw those, and actually went out again to collect and caught one(didn't keep it though).

[aggie4231]

Here is the link to MARSH's thread for the trip. Right now it is bare, but as more info is gathered I will post.

http://www.marshreef.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=29385

[BIGBIRD123]

No problem Justin, they just looked EXACTLY like the "Coons. I'm no expert and have on occasion been mistaken...LOL!

S

[aggie4231]

It's ok. Most people will think something is one thing just by looks.

[Jamie]

Considering I live in the Port A area....I will totally be there. I'm super excited that we are going to do this. I didn't realize that there were so many species available for collection right in my neck of the woods.

[aggie4231]

Yeah there is good number of things. This summer I'm going to try and find some good healthy species of gorgonions to put in my tank.

[RayAllen]

For those of you wondering what people have brought back. This is from the last trip

http://maast.org/forums/showthread.php?t=37241&highlight=Collection

[marcus_the_clownfish]

i'm definately there!

[dapettit]

Do I need a fishin license to "collect"?

[JordanJ]

Can someone elaborate with details as to what this is?
This is a trip to collect livestock from the Gulf?

[RayAllen]

Can someone elaborate with details as to what this is?
This is a trip to collect livestock from the Gulf?

Correct, Its legal as long as you have a marine fishing license.

[Joe31]

Is this from a boat off shore? or how does this work? This is new to me. Thanks

[JimD]

Its mostly at the jetties at Port Aransas and along the local coastline.

[RayAllen]

Shore and Jettis. Most use cast nets, some you can catch by hand or small net.

[Richard]

If you catch anymore of those butterflies try to get a pic. I know there are some introduced species in the gulf but I haven't heard of Raccoon butterflies at Port A.

I have heard of people catching a Slippery **** (http://www.fishbase.org/Summary/SpeciesSummary.php?id=3660) when they go down there.

[Darth-Tater]

:innocent2:Interesting very interesting

David

[bigmoe21]

haha why is it named that?..sorry i just think its kinda funny

I have heard of people catching a Slippery **** (http://www.fishbase.org/Summary/SpeciesSummary.php?id=3660) when they go down there.[/quote]

[Richard]

why is it named that?..sorry i just think its kinda funny


I'm not sure. Maybe because they are so common around This Island (http://www.penisland.org/pl.htm).

[TexasTodd]

Oh, count me in, WAY IN! I've missed it every year so far.

Now my Son will be 7 and old enough!!!!

I'll be fishing too.

Todd

[brewercm]

Todd, I'll join you on a good fishing outing this time around. I went the last two years and have had a blast. Well, not much of a blast last year as I was pretty sick while I was there and don't even remember much of it. Looking to make up this year around.

[TexasTodd]

Sounds good Cliff!

Todd

[glennr1978]

Sounds like this is gonna be pretty cool, and it's right around the corner for me!!

[caferacermike]

When are we going to send out the list of hotel and rooms? We are going to do it in a new thread right, so as not to have it get lost in this thread?

[Bill S]

We should have moved our boat to CC by then. We'll probably get a slip at the Port A marina for the weekend.

[aggie4231]

I have the hotel info now, I just need to get a chance to post it.

[aggie4231]

All individuals are responsible for making their hotel reservations. Reservations need to be made by June 25, 2008

Here is the Hotel Info.

Friday July 25-Sunday July 27

Mariner Inn & Suites
2607 State HWY 361
Port Aransas, TX 78373
361-749-8200
http://www.portaransas-texas.com/sitepages/pid35.php (same place, went through a name change)

Ask/tell them this is with MARSH
We have 30 rooms blocked off for us. IF we fill up those rooms, continue making reservations, as long as there are more rooms available, they will keep giving us the discount.

10% discount on rooms

25% non-refundable fee to hold room. 72 hour cancellation notice

Here are the rooms, room info, room prices(before 10% discount)

• Single (1 Queen, Mini Fridge, Microwave) $85.00/night
2 person Occupancy
• Double (2 queens, Mini Fridge, Microwave $99.00/night
4person Occupancy
• Mini Suite (1 queen, Full Kitchen,) $115/night
2 person Occupancy, Handicap accessable
• Mini Suite (2 queen, Full Kitchen) $135/night
4 person Occupancy
• Luxury Suite(1 Queen & 1 King, Full Kitchen) $195/night
4 person Occupancy

If you have any questions you may pm me, email me at justin@marshreef.com

[MRSBIGBIRD123]

We're booked!

[aggie4231]

I forgot to put that the hotel is pet friendly.

[Darth-Tater]

So Big Bird can come along and join us

Awesome possum

Tater

[prof]

I am in. See y'all there.

[aggie4231]

Hello all.

Here is the Registration Link for the Port A Collection Trip Dinner BBQ.
http://www.marshreef.com/modules.php?name=Event_Registration&pa=event_info&ev_id=32

Paid Members of MARSH and MAAST are free plus 1 guest free. Additional guests are $10/person.

Non-Paid Members are $10/person.

DFWMAS Members(paid/non-paid) are $10/person.

Children 10 and under free.

Also, please visit this thread, and post too that way I know who is who from MAAST, DFWMAS, and other non MARSH members.

http://marshreef.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=29967

[michael_t]

I'm thinking about collecting sand on the trip to replace my crushed coral. Any thoughts on this? Good, bad, ugly?

[RayAllen]

I'm thinking about collecting sand on the trip to replace my crushed coral. Any thoughts on this? Good, bad, ugly?

Bad Idea. Beach sand here has toxins and pollutants. Think of it this way cars and trucks, tailgate parties etc....

[brewercm]

It's been done in the past by a couple of members here, but they got theirs from the sand back in the dunes. Reason for that is it has been blown around, dried, and most contaminates have been removed naturally (as much as possible).
That being said I believe it is illegal to remove sand from the dunes area though. Also realize that the sand down there is not as white as araganite sand that you'd buy from the store.

[jrsatx20]

I Have Taken Some Sand From The Beach In Ca. Used It In Two Of My Tanks With No Problem Just Went Through It For Glass N Stuff Not Suppose To Be In There.

[BIGBIRD123]

The thing about CA sand is that you don't have all the petro chemical plants and oil rigs in the gulf and it's mostly silica sand.

Steve

[caferacermike]

There is a huge difference between aragonite and local beach sand. Our beach sand is made from the crushing of terrestrial minerals that have been pulverized by the incoming tides. Aragonite is dead coral skeleton that has been crushed deep in the ocean, it is about 95% calcium. That makes most of your beach sand a mix of quartz silicates and therefor it has no other benefits other than aesthetics. Aragonite will buffer your PH, release CA and other trace elements over the course of many years to your tank. As the PH drops aragonite can actually melt down releasing these needed elements and gradually bring the PH up. Think of it kind of like an auto top off unit. Another good way to point this out is that you can place aragonite sand into a CA reactor as a media, can't put beach sand into your CA reactor and have any benefits at all.

[BIGBIRD123]

Nice analogy Mike...

S

[Jamie]

Also, FWIW, the tree huggers are super protective of the dunes...as habitats and natural barriers from the gulf.

[aggie4231]

Just a Reminder

Please, if you plan to attend the BBQ dinner, remember to follow the links to the registration page on Marsh. This way we can plan on the number of people showing up, this way we can decide how much BBQ to order. It is better to go ahead and register now, and if you decide not to come we can take you off the list. It is always easier to decrease the amount of food needed than it is to increase it. We want to make sure that all who do register be able to enjoy good food and good times.

[aggie4231]

Friendly reminder to those who plan on attending to register. Even if you think you might attend, go ahead and register.

[drgnbttrfly]

gosh wish it was closer...two special needs kids...:(

[aggie4231]

Bring the family. There are alot of things to do here. I'm sure there will be some wifes who wouldn't mind watchinig your kids while the men are out on the jetties. Treat it like a family vacation.

[drgnbttrfly]

One has Autism and one has Cerebral Palsy and is wheelchair bound...strangers get a little hesitant to watch them.

We may try to find a way though. My kids love fish...heck they are the reason we have salt water in the first place. I wonder if they rent those beach wheelchairs down there.

My oldest went fishing with CAST for Kids last year...OMG he LOVED it. The boat going vertical was his favorite part...and watching the fish swim in the catch tank.

Is there a good place to find out more information about all this? I mean without clogging up the board.

[aggie4231]

Google Port Aransas Visitor Bureau

[aggie4231]

Reminder for those who plan on attending.

If you plan on booking a room at the listed hotel, you need to do so by June 25th.

Please follow the registration link to register for the event. Please don't wait until the last minute, if you we can't guarantee that there will be any food for you.

[aggie4231]

There are still around 15 hotel rooms left for those who are still thinking about going. You will need to reserve your room by June 25.

We plan on having some really nice raffle prizes.

Just think, you can take a mini family vacation, visit with fellow aquarists, eat some good BBQ, have a chance at some good raffle prizes, and bring back stuff you collected for your tank.

[Dee]

Can someone send me a list of things were should probably bring in case we actually catch something...or in order to catch something? LOL. Have never done this before and hubby wants to know what the whole trip will cost before he tells me we can go.

Thanks,
Dee

[RayAllen]

What i would bring for fish catching and inverts

Few 5g buckets with lids (with a hole drilled on the lid for a airhose)
Couple of battery operated airpumps with airline tubing ( 1 is fine if you split the line with a valve)
Cast net
Normal fish net
Extra batteries
Ice packs (to keep water from getting to warm in the bucket)

[BIGBIRD123]

Head band type flashlight
Good non-slip shoes
Fishing license with saltwater stamp

Steve

[JimD]

Beer

[SoLiD]

Reminder for those who plan on attending.

If you plan on booking a room at the listed hotel, you need to do so by June 25th.

Please follow the registration link to register for the event. Please don't wait until the last minute, if you we can't guarantee that there will be any food for you.

OK guy's it almost the last minute for those of you without hotel rooms. This peak time for all the hotels out here, so don't just plan on showing up in Port Aransas without reservations. :ph34r:

I'll see you guys soon!!!! :wink_smile:

[Aquarium masters]

If there is anything I can help supply Ill be available and willing to help you guys get your stuff back in great shape. Feel free to call on me. I have plenty of fish shipment boxes (Styrofoam box in a cardboard box), ice packs, bags, nets, air pumps, air stones, splitters, tubing and more. Bring your gift certificates and MAAST cards for discounts and free stuff. I also have a high-pressure air pump if you want to keep anything at my store overnight.

[MRSBIGBIRD123]

Maybe we tour a couple of LFS before the BBQ.........:). What do ya'll think?

[Dee]

Beer...Funny :)

Thanks for the advice, working on my husband tonight and won't let him go to bed until he gives me an answer.

Dena

[Dee]

We're all booked, now we just have to go shopping :bigsmile::bigsmile:

Dee

[DrMark]

As far as registering, is there a link here to register for the Sat BBQ, or does it all have to be done at the MARSH site. I am not a member there, yet.
I think Bigbird mentioned about putting it here also.
Maybe I just cant find it.
mark

[aggie4231]

Mark, I think BigBird just made a topic for people like you. Send me a pm with your email and number of guests. Also list your shirt size

[ST3PH3N]

i just booked my room..what else do i need to do?

[jrsatx20]

WHAT IS ON THE AGENDA FOR FRIDAY NIGHT I WILL BE PULLING INTO MUSTANG ISLAND RV PARK LATE AT NIGHT JUST WONDERING WHERE EVERYONE WILL BE.

[BIGBIRD123]

We will be at the jetty just behind the Marine Science bldg. We will be having a bonfire, so if you can bring wood, everyone would appreciate it. This is just a socializing event and so that someone will bring me a beer...LMAO! Please make sure that the wood doesn't have any metal, wires,nails and etc.

Thanks, and hope to see everyone there...

Steve

[ST3PH3N]

what time was everyone heading out there friday?

[aggie4231]

what time was everyone heading out there friday?

Dark thirty(8ish or so)

[ST3PH3N]

what shirts is everyone talking about?

[ST3PH3N]

sooooooo....................shirt?

[BIGBIRD123]

We have shirts made with a Bigbird design on it and we ask for a $5 donation to cover the cost of the shirt. We can't sell them because the Copyright on BB but we can accept donations. The shirts are pretty cool and this is the 3rd year for T-shirts. If you want any you need to post sizes, so we can have enough.

Steve

[ST3PH3N]

We have shirts made with a Bigbird design on it and we ask for a $5 donation to cover the cost of the shirt. We can't sell them because the Copyright on BB but we can accept donations. The shirts are pretty cool and this is the 3rd year for T-shirts. If you want any you need to post sizes, so we can have enough.

Steve


ok, thank you :)

sizes small and medium

[Dee]

I vaguely remember reading that a marine fishing license is needed. Is this also the case for collecting stuff on the shoreline like shrimps and such? If so, which license is it? I saw a SW sport stand for $10, a one-day all fishing license for $10, and a SW package for $33.

Thanks,
Dena

[apedroza]

You would definitely need some sort of saltwater fishing licence. Whether you want it for one day or one year is up to you.

[TinyTanker]

If i catch a new species can i name it ? LOL

[jrsatx20]

can someone post pics of nets n equipment we need to bring I'm a little duh at that kind of stuff need pics for everything

[SoLiD]

can someone post pics of nets n equipment we need to bring I'm a little duh at that kind of stuff need pics for everything

I will be doing that in the near future..... I think :sick:

[apedroza]

I will be bringing my seine if I can find it and a large aquarium net and headlamp.


Anthony

[tropicana]

I will be doing that in the near future..... I think :sick:

I will take Pictures of the stuff I used when I went last time. Its kinda dark right now, Ill try to do it tomorrow after work :) Basically though, You just need these:

For the net, make sure you can scrape it on rocks without damaging the net...if its a net wrapped around metal you can use "Liquid Electrical Tape" to coat the edges of the net so you can rub it on the rocks without tearing it.
http://www.sciencefirst.com/pctr/121.gif
regular 5g bucket
http://www.skyroadster.com/forums/attachments/f41/21804d1201230863-hand-washing-cold-weather-nano-5g-bucket.jpg
With the aerator make sure you take some extra batteries
http://www.frabill.com/frabill/images/skus/1423/1423_medium.png
Flashlights, this is your own preference. But try and make sure you get floating oneshttp://maast.org/forums/images/icons/icon12.gif
http://www.pipelinesupply.com/images/Flashlight_and_Lanterns.jpg

Thats all you will need for the end of the Jetties.... Now if you want to go and catch stuff out in the Marshes (I caught seahorses and live squid last time), You will need 2 other items as well:

Waders - I would get Chest High, as you can get stuck in the mud pretty hardcore lol.
http://www.linsleybros.co.uk/images/P/GRXi%20Neoprene%20Waders-L.jpg
Now this is something you can do different but these work great because you can let it troll behind you when wading in the water and keeps fresh water in the bucket, BUT if you drag behind you it can also get muddy water in it from the water you stir up but I like these:
http://www.frabill.com/frabill/images/skus/4501/4501_medium.png

[BIGBIRD123]

I like to use the LED headband type light for the collecting because it frees both hands but it is also good to have a GOOD flashlight for the walk back. Also, you don't want to take anything out on the jetty that you don't want to lug back in the dark and tired. You also want to have on good tennis shoes, not those slippers or swimming shoes. The rocks on the jetty are slippery, sharp and rough.

HTH

Steve

[tropicana]

We have shirts made with a Bigbird design on it and we ask for a $5 donation to cover the cost of the shirt. We can't sell them because the Copyright on BB but we can accept donations. The shirts are pretty cool and this is the 3rd year for T-shirts. If you want any you need to post sizes, so we can have enough.

Steve

Thank you, that makes me feel good :) I cant wait to see my design on a T-shirt http://maast.org/forums/images/icons/icon10.gif

[Jonthefishguy]

Just remember that you must have a fishing license if you pull out any life from the waters. If you use a net or sien, you must also have a license.

[aggie4231]

We at MARSH decided to follow in last years direction and make the t-shirts free for those that have registered(paid members(and one free guest), non-paid members who are paying, extra guests, and kids) and let me know what size you would like. Remember it is 1 shirt for each person. But if you feel the need, donations for the t-shirts will be accepted.

Also, raffle items will be available. Raffle tickets will be $3 or 4 for $10. More to come on the raffle items.

[ST3PH3N]

We at MARSH decided to follow in last years direction and make the t-shirts free for those that have registered(paid members(and one free guest), non-paid members who are paying, extra guests, and kids) and let me know what size you would like. Remember it is 1 shirt for each person. But if you feel the need, donations for the t-shirts will be accepted.

Also, raffle items will be available. Raffle tickets will be $3 or 4 for $10. More to come on the raffle items.

so is this a different shirt from the one bigbirds talking about?

[subsailor]

Nope same shirt

[ST3PH3N]

ok..thank..i think i asked for some a few posts back.

[BIGBIRD123]

We did ask for donations last year Justin to defer the cost of the shirts. It as on a volunteer basis. I donated $30 myself.

Steve

[aggie4231]

In a way I donated too, I bought at least $20 in raffle tickets.

The more raffle tickets you buy, the better chance you have at winning.

[MRSBIGBIRD123]

This is a fun filled weekend noone will want to miss, great people, great "fish stories," and great BBQ. I am encouraging, everyone to light a candle, throw salt over your shoulder, say a prayer, and last but not least, do a "please don't let it rain dance." :wink_smile:
Hope to see ya'll there!

[ST3PH3N]

what day will everyone be going to collect fish as a group so I can get a one day license

[BIGBIRD123]

Saturday.

[ST3PH3N]

Saturday.

Thanks :) rain rain go away

[DrMark]

Any idea what time Sat for the BBQ, Raffle, etc.??
mark

[aggie4231]

Friday Night Bonfire if the beach isn't to wet

Saturday BBQ starting around 3:30-4
raffle will be around 5 or so

Collection will be whenever most people want to start heading out to the jetties.

[BIGBIRD123]

Texas Hold 'Em at 5:30 pm

S

[ST3PH3N]

So is there a BBQ Friday night too?

[BIGBIRD123]

No, just a bonfire and you're on your own for food.

S

[jrsatx20]

looks like im still going

[ST3PH3N]

"on your own for food"

Ok :)

[MRSBIGBIRD123]

The Bigbird BBQ will be Saturday afternoon, all other meals you are responsible for purchasing/consuming.

[ST3PH3N]

The Bigbird BBQ will be Saturday afternoon, all other meals you are responsible for purchasing/consuming.

Sounds good :)
Especially the part about consuming LOL

[apedroza]

I will be heading to the Crazy Cajun!!!!

[princer7]

Would anyone be willing to bring back a few peppermint shrimp for me? :)

[MRSBIGBIRD123]

What/where is the Crazy Cajun?

[tropicana]

I wish the BBq was more around 6pm.... My fiance doesnt get off Sat until 4pm :(

[apedroza]

What/where is the Crazy Cajun?


It's a great Cajun Place similar to the Boiling Pot (But much better IMO) Their speciaty is a large bowl of shrimp and crawfish boil!!!!! I go there everytime I go to Port A. They also have other cajun dishes.

[MRSBIGBIRD123]

Hopefully they have Jambalaya, it would be nice to go to a different restaurant.
May have to mapquest it.

[apedroza]

They Do!!!
http://www.thecrazycajun.com/menu.html

[Darth-Tater]

Looks like I will have to pass on this weekend. My mother isn't doing too well (yrs) she fell the other day and isn't feeling good. Low white blood count and dehydrated. I would hate to be 100+ miles from home and get a call to haul buns home. Everyone have a super weekend and stay safe.

David

[MKCindy]

Sorry to hear about your Mom, David. We will keep you in our prayers.


Anyone planning any diving at Port A?

[brewercm]

It's a great Cajun Place similar to the Boiling Pot (But much better IMO) Their speciaty is a large bowl of shrimp and crawfish boil!!!!! I go there everytime I go to Port A. They also have other cajun dishes.

That place just ROCKS!!!!!!

[MRSBIGBIRD123]

Tater, Your presence will be missed, I pray your Mother gets better.

[BIGBIRD123]

Tater, I'll make sure to get your shirt! Hope your Mom gets better.

S

[BigKGlen]

I haven't been keeping up with all the posts. Is there going to be a meeting place for all that are going down in the morning?

[aggie4231]

bbq at the Mariner Inn in Port Aransas around 3:30-4pm

[ST3PH3N]

just checked in :)

[SoLiD]

Me too, ... hold the phone, I knew I was forgetting something, I live here.... or do I??? See y'all tonight. :lauging:

[ST3PH3N]

when and where is everyone meeting tonight?

[Dee]

yeah, same here. In the room, never been here before. Help!!!

[ST3PH3N]

yeah, same here. In the room, never been here before. Help!!!


LOL me and my gf decided to drive around and look 4 a place to eat. Were in room 107

[Dee]

we're eating now at , Crazy Cajun. We are in 123.

[TinyTanker]

This is hilarious watching you guys post between rooms while in the same hotel :> LMAO. Do me a favor slap some shots of envrironment, sunset, liquor

[ST3PH3N]

my number is 210-837-1703 someone lmk asap when and were bonfire is. Thanks

[TinyTanker]

Hey this is hilarious watching you all Message each other from rooms in the SAME HOTEL. LMAO Hey drop a sunset picture on the blog. I bet the coast has some sick sunsets witht the storm and all. ALSO any ACTION SHOTS with Tools of the trade? LOL FUnny stuff. Kick it into high gear and have more fun than ever. Wish i was there

[DrMark]

My family and I will be out there tommorow for the BBQ.
mark

[jrsatx20]

I'm here at mustang island heading towards the bonfire but gonna stop at whataburger to eat first someone call me 210-389-6912 ruben for directions plz

[ST3PH3N]

I just took off. If u take a left on the beach ull see my car on the side a ways down.

[BIGBIRD123]

Well, you guys that didn't make it missed-out on some real good collecting. This year was one of the best for peppermints. We got 150 in an hr/half. I really appreciate all that attended. We are already making plans for BB PA Trip V.

Steve

[apedroza]

Everything I brought back made it OK!!! I'm hoping the shrimp will make it through long enough to eat the aptaisia before the sargassum anglers get them!!!

[SoLiD]

Off the top of my head, here are a few things I caught out there this weekend:

5-Dwarf Seahorse (2 from Travis aka Tropicana)
200+ Peppermint Shrimp
200+ Virgin Nerite Snail
50+ Pipefish
10+ Flying Robin
2- Spotfin Butterfly
10+ eel
2+ Toad Fish
5+ Sargassum Angler
500+ Sargassum Shrimp
1+ File Fish
2000+ Grass Shrimp
50+ Sargent Major
50+ Perch


I didn't keep everything but it was fun catching them.

[tropicana]

Off the top of my head, here are a few things I caught out there this weekend:

5-Dwarf Seahorse (2 from Travis aka Tropicana)
200+ Peppermint Shrimp
200+ Virgin Nerite Snail
50+ Pipefish
10+ Flying Robin
2- Spotfin Butterfly
10+ eel
2+ Toad Fish
5+ Sargassum Angler
500+ Sargassum Shrimp
1+ File Fish
2000+ Grass Shrimp
50+ Sargent Major
50+ Perch


I didn't keep everything but it was fun catching them.

How are the EEL doing in the tank? I know you kept like 2 of them right? You guys who didnt go and do some Marsh digging, you missed out on the Sea Horses. Its very gratifying when you find one!

[LoneStar]

any photos from the event? Both livestock and of the bonfire & collecting?

[SoLiD]

The "Bonfire" never happened because it was really windy and the lack of wood :confused:. I'm dead tired right now but I will try to get somep pictures up soon. :)

-David

[LoneStar]

I guess people didn't see the note of 'bring wood' on the official banner for the event....

[MRSBIGBIRD123]

Unfortunately, there was not a Bonfire this year, but there was some great conversations going on. Also wanted to thank Anthony, on the info about the CrazyCajun, it was awesome, and so was the company...
I wanted to thank everyone for their attendance, I think overall it was a good turnout. Hopefully everyone had a great time. I know MAAST walked away with a lot of raffle prizes this year.....mmmm David.

Can't wait till next year, already have some ideas working.

[apedroza]

Several seahorses were caught along the jetties as well hanging on all the sargassum. I however think I caught the coolest thing of the night on the jetty along with jrsatx!!!!! Too bad we couldn't keep it!!!

on his way back out!! Hopefully it doesn't get stuck in the jetties again!!

http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o43/apedroza/DSCN0179Medium.jpg

[SoLiD]

How are the EEL doing in the tank? I know you kept like 2 of them right? You guys who didnt go and do some Marsh digging, you missed out on the Sea Horses. Its very gratifying when you find one!

Those guys are always moving around. They are doing ok.

[SoLiD]

Where are the pictures of the seahorses, Anthony? I'd love to see them. BTW how were they caught? Net? Seine? Luck?

[LoneStar]

Yes the CrazyCajun in Port A is a great place to eat!!!

[apedroza]

Where are the pictures of the seahorses, Anthony? I'd love to see them. BTW how were they caught? Net? Seine? Luck?

Didn't keep any, but I know Frederick got at least one. There was a guy with his kids pulling them out with a seine. They would come back with tons of sargassum and we would help them shake loose whatever was in there. It sure was a lot of work though!! I counted at least 6 in his bucket before he left. Maybe next year I'll set up a tank for seahorses and pipefish.

[SoLiD]

Were they the Bigger Sized Seahorses or were they the Dwarf Seahorses that I caught?


Dwarf Seahorse - Hippocampus zosterae - Grow to about 2 inches.
http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/resources/jeffrey_jeffords/fish/seahorse7.jpg
picture belongs to animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu

Atlantic \ Caribbean Seahorse - Hippocampus erectus - Grows to about 5 inches
http://www.arkive.org/media/610AF190-E6BA-4355-ADC9-943C8A4818C3/Presentation.Large/photo.jpg
picture belongs to www.arkive.com

[Jonthefishguy]

In case you didnt know, it is illegal to handle sea turtles or their eggs and comes with a $20,000 as they are protected by the Federal Endangered Species Act (http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/huntwild/wild/species/endang/regulations/us/index.phtml). I would take those pictures down as what you did is clearly against the law.

[apedroza]

In case you didnt know, it is illegal to handle sea turtles or their eggs and comes with a $20,000 as they are protected by the Federal Endangered Species Act (http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/huntwild/wild/species/endang/regulations/us/index.phtml). I would take those pictures down as what you did is clearly against the law.

Taking (includes harassing, harming, pursuing, hunting, shooting, wounding, trapping, killing, capturing, or collecting) within the United States and its territorial seas

I did not take the turtle, I rescued it from the jetties and then safely released it back into the water. I see no harm in taking pictures of it's release.

[apedroza]

Were they the Bigger Sized Seahorses or were they the Dwarf Seahorses that I caught?


Dwarf Seahorse - Hippocampus zosterae - Grow to about 2 inches.
http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/resources/jeffrey_jeffords/fish/seahorse7.jpg
picture belongs to animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu

Atlantic \ Caribbean Seahorse - Hippocampus erectus - Grows to about 5 inches
http://www.arkive.org/media/610AF190-E6BA-4355-ADC9-943C8A4818C3/Presentation.Large/photo.jpg
picture belongs to www.arkive.com (http://www.arkive.com)

They were the larger ones, but they were bright yellow like the sargassum.

[BIGBIRD123]

The Turtle had been washed into the rocks and could not get out. The turtle was rescued from the rocks, checked over for injuries and released back into the water. I would have done the same thing and good job, Anthony. I just wished I had been there to see it in person. Very cool and I know it made the trip totally worth it.

Steve

[SoLiD]

Good to know. Thanks, Anthony. Oh yeah, one more question... Was it during the day or at night when they were catching them?

[apedroza]

It was a couple hours before the sun went down and we headed out for the jetties.

[brewercm]

Glad you guys had a great time. Sorry I wasn't able to make it this year after hearing how much fun it was (as usual). I will definitely make it again come next year for number V. Good to see that after the storm you guys had probably more caught than any other year.

Anybody do any fishing while they were there and how was it?

[Dee]

We didn't make it out to the marsh. First timers and need people to show us what the heck to do LOL. It was a great trip aside from the groups of drunks above us the first night. I think the biggest hurdle was knowing where to go, when, how, etc. We had never done anything like this before and this was actually our first trip to the coast since we moved here in 97.

We will definitely go again next year, but I don't think I can wait until next year. We managed to only lose a small eel that we caught, but it was probably stressed from the catch because none of us knew what it was and it was so small we couldn't get it off the rock until I came down with my little fingers.

My first catch before we walked out on the jetty, was a fish I need some help with. It's the first photo...have no idea what it was. My first catch at the end of the jetty was a file fish, then I got two Miller Blennies (I think that's what they are). A dozen Sgt. Majors before I started putting them back. Lots of peppermint...over 100. We were given a quarter size angler that is hiding in the quarantine tank somewhere. I also got roc anenome...almost got washed out to sea for that one. We didn't stay out too late...hubby's sprained ankle started swelling. Here are some pics...please help with the first one.

Dena

[apedroza]

I believe the fish in th efirst pic is a triple tail, but I could be wrong. All three of my anglers made it home safely and all my shrimp as well. I will try and take pics later.

[BIGBIRD123]

The only thing I lost was about 5-6 peps and the Red Robin. I hated to loose that one.

S

[Dee]

I lost the baby eel and a silver side (I think). I only took that home for the eel in my tank...he likes those :o) Everyone else is very active and eating well. Even the small one in the first photo...looks like something picked at him while in the bucket. I didn't think he'd make it, but he's swimming around and eating.

Dena

[Dee]

I think you are right. This guy is the size of a quarter, but OMG can they get big. HMMM...I might have to raise him until he's big enough to throw on the grill :bigsmile:

Dena


I believe the fish in th efirst pic is a triple tail, but I could be wrong. All three of my anglers made it home safely and all my shrimp as well. I will try and take pics later.

[tropicana]

The only thing I lost was about 5-6 peps and the Red Robin. I hated to loose that one.

S

I have 2 red robins still alive in my pico 2.5 for now. Do you want one of them? If they make it till this weekend Ill swing one up there for ya. Or both.... I dont think they will make it in the Pico longer than that lol. They are just so tiny its ok for now.

[BIGBIRD123]

I was going to put mine in my fuge/frag tank. If you don't want to keep them, I'll try.

S

[jrsatx20]

well everything i brought back died. aerator died no 02 no life.
only had about 10 peps 15 grass shrimp lrg blk urchin.

[MKCindy]

Sorry, we had unexpected company and only made it for the jetty trip.

We brought home 2 Blennies, many peppermint shrimp, and ghost shrimp.

Two mystery shrimp with white dotes up and down the body, small claws and very aggressive attitudes. (in the fuge for now)
What I think is a Sargassum Angler/Frog fish. This little guy uses his fins like webbed hands and feet to hang onto rock or push off walls. Very interesting to watch and I was warned he will eat anything not bigger than he is. (in the big fish tank LOL)

A the Striped File Fish. Does anyone know how reef safe he is? So far he has spent hours flirting with his reflection, then just keeps swimming into the currents. His tail was pretty beat up, but he has been very peaceful towards his tank mates.

[SoLiD]

well everything i brought back died. aerator died no 02 no life.
only had about 10 peps 15 grass shrimp lrg blk urchin.

Sorry to hear that Ruben. I will try to send some pepermint shrimp and other stuff your way when someone comes down or I go back to SA. Just let me know what you want and I will try to get them to you. Just sharing the love... :bighug: