Captain
Oliver Ngy and I Pursue a Distinct Fishing Quest
By Derrek Stewart 5/17/24
The Mission
There is only one region on the planet where you can target
all three species of the Paralabrax family. This is a unique Southern
California angling adventure. The mission is a fun challenge, targeting all
three species in one outing. Angling from midday to beyond sunset added another
distinction to this pursuit.
The Three Saltwater Bass Species in the Paralabrax Genus
P. clathratus / Kelp Bass, also referred to as a Calico Bass
P. nebulifer / Barred Sand Bass.
P. maculatofasciatus / Spotted Sand Bass also known as a
Spotted Bay Bass.
In the public domain, the three bass
illustrations are from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. These beautiful
works of art were created by the incredibly talented Amadeo Bachar. Bachar is a
marine artist, educator of marine science, and a gifted illustrator. https://www.abachar.com/
The Location
Harbors, bays, and estuaries are shared locations where
anglers can find these three bass species collectively nearby. Our mission
focused on Long Beach Harbor. The Port of Long Beach adjoins the Port of Los
Angeles, creating one of the largest shipping harbors worldwide. This port is
also home to a diverse aquatic landscape.
Arial
view of the Port of Long Beach
Conditions
Our fishing quest takes place in late May. As the calendar
fast approaches summer, the water temperatures are on an atypical cooling
trend. Surface temperatures are registering in the mid-50-degree range. A
strong breeze accompanies a chill in the air. These fishing conditions add to
less than aggressive bait pouncing hunting predator bass.
Captain Oliver
quickly scores a Barred Sand Bass on an A-Rig.
High Spots and Barred Sand Bass
Undaunted by the weather and water temperatures, we started
this adventure targeting Barred Sand Bass just outside the harbor sea wall. We
positioned upwind over high spots rising from the bottom while presenting
Umbrella Rigs. Using the wind to our advantage, we made long casts to the far
side of the bottom structure.
One of the key techniques we employed was the use of the
umbrella rig. By not engaging the reel, the rig was able to drop straight down
in the water column. It was crucial to closely monitor the lure’s fall, as a
strike could occur at any moment during the descent. Once the bottom was
reached without incident, we deployed a moderate retrieve that stayed close to
the structural elements.
We constantly adapted our retrieve pace to the changing
conditions. When in contact with vegetation, we wound fast, dropping back down
by free spooling to maintain contact with the bottom. An occasional pulse of
the umbrella rig was created by ripping the lure with the rod or a fast wind of
the reel handle, adding a dynamic element to our fishing strategy.
The umbrella rig is a mainstay presentation for all three
bass species, especially Barred Sand Bass, but not today. Oliver and I had a
few meager bites. Nonetheless, we both boated quality Sand Bass, and species
number one is checked off the list.
The
author with two Barred Sand Bass at once. Take note of the ‘Grasp Handle’ on
the St. Croix rod.
BFS and Spotted Sand Bass
The relatively
shallow calm back waters of the harbor are the perfect location for finding
Spotted Sand Bass.
Captain
Ngy with a nice Spotty, duped with a Bait Finesse System.
Spotted Sand Bass can be found in calmer, shallow waters,
precisely where Oliver positioned us while seeking Spotties. The captain also
had us rigged with Bait Finesse Systems for our Spotty pursuit. Designed around
light baitcasting gear, a BFS features increased sensitivity and incredibly
long accurate casts while presenting small lures—a perfect, fun set-up for
Spotted Sand Bass.
Catching
Spotted Sand Bass on the BFS system is a blast. Species number two, check!
Swimbaits and Kelp Bass
We had to work hard to complete the Trifecta. After turning
our attention to Kelp Bass, Captain Oliver boated a modest one quick. Under
these challenging conditions and hundreds of casts later, we scored an
excellent Calico. Faced with the circumstances, the captain made a perfect move
by downsizing our swimbaits. As the sun set, outside the harbor sea wall,
between the rocks and kelp, I was greeted by a jolting strike from an
aggressive Kelp Bass.
Captain
Ngy scores a Kelp Bass early when targeting Barred Sand Bass outside the harbor
sea wall.
This is
why you should never give up.
Fishing along
the outside of the sea wall as a ship leaves the harbor during sunset.
The Bonus Round
The sun went down, but the action continued, as we scored
additional catches inside of the harbor, adding to the fun.
The sun
is down but the fun continues.
Mission Accomplished
Not only did we
catch the Saltwater Bass Trifecta, but Oliver and I both achieved this goal.
Success under these trying circumstances adds another level of satisfaction.
Despite the difficult conditions, I couldn't be happier!
It essentially took the entire trip to produce this outcome.
That is why you never give up. Always stay positive and make the most of every
cast. You are one cast away from a fish that is the difference maker. It might
be the only fish, a competition limit fish, the jackpot/big fish, or the
Trifecta. Keep casting!
The Mindset
An excellent attitude, well-placed casts, and persistence are
critical during these harsh conditions. Sometimes, not often, the bite window
is wide open, and catching fish is relatively easy. Many times, the
prescription for success is precise. When fishing is challenging, you must
achieve as many items on the remedy of triumph as possible to produce success.
When the weather and fish make fishing challenging,
maintaining an optimistic mindset is crucial. While luck might play a role,
it's more rewarding to approach each trip with a positive attitude and a
willingness to learn from your guide.
A
successful mission complete, and back to the dock.
Custom Trips with Captain
Oliver Ngy
Each fishing trip with Captain Ngy is a unique experience. He
always introduces me to new techniques, demonstrating innovative ways to catch
both familiar and new fish species. With a wide range of fishing grounds,
including freshwater, the chances of exploring new waters are high. I
appreciate the sense of adventure, and his positive outlook always makes the
trip enjoyable.
You can select a specific type of adventure or let Captain Ngy
decide where the hot bite is most likely to be. I've done both, and it has
always been time well spent regardless of the conditions. Big Bass Dreams has a
beautiful fish-catching boat set up with top-of-the-line fishing gear, rigged
and ready.
Preparing for a fishing adventure with Captain Ngy is a breeze.
I bring my foul weather gear, fishing clothing, sun protection, food and drink,
and most importantly, a positive attitude. Big Bass Dreams has all the
necessary equipment ready, so you can focus on enjoying the trip. If you and
your friends are looking for an unforgettable Southern California fishing
experience, reach out to Oliver Ngy atOliver@BigBassDreams.com. And don't forget to mention that the Sculpin
Whisperer sent you!
