Hello everyone. This was my second time fishing, and I went back for another session with my friend . This time, however, I came way more prepared than during my first run. In first place, I decided to prevent getting a nasty sunburn, so I wore sports sleeves, gloves, and long leggings. With this gear on, the sun wouldn't be able to completely roast my skin while out there.
Secondly, I decided to use a chest rig bag to reload the hook with bait quickly, have extra pockets just in case, and tie a nail clipper nearby to cut the nylon line fast if needed. For that last part, I thought about using a pocket knife at first, but if it drops into the water you lose it, or worse, you could cut yourself since I was chest-deep in the water.
Even though people were staring at me like they were looking at a Navy SEAL with full tactical gear, I was only focused on dominating the sea. For the first time, I actually managed to catch a couple of fish, but two of them got away right when I had them on the hook and out of the water, just as I was about to secure them. I also cut myself with the spines of one fish I managed to pull out. It was thrashing hard trying to break free, and when I grabbed it to immobilize it, its spines scratched through my glove and sliced one of my fingers, leaving it bleeding. Just a regular hazard of the sea, I guess. But as my friend told me, at the end of the day, I gained experience. I caught a couple of fish, which I failed to do last time, and I will have more skill and knowledge for the next round.
My friend did manage to catch over 20 fish on his own, as he has a ton of knowledge and experience in the fishing world. I hope to get back into the water soon, even better prepared to land more catches. I am also considering going out with other acquaintances who know a lot about the sport. The Caribbean waters have way too many marine species waiting for a decent fight, and I am definitely ready to take it.
Without anything more to add, I bid farewell. Stay tuned for future posts! Until next time!