Surf fishing

A friend asked me to describe surf fishing so here we go.
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Surf fishing in the state of California.

What is surf fishing? Simply put, surf fishing is a method of fishing often used by people that live near the coast of any ocean. There are many techniques one may use, in order to enjoy this form of fishing. One possible reason why this method is popular is that it affords the fisherman the opportunity to partake in fishing for species of fish that may not be found in other areas, such as kelp beds, or deep water.

Surf fishing is literally just what it says. It is a style of fishing in which your bait is cast into the surf or just beyond the surf. Why this is important is to first understand how and why fish exist in particular areas. Within the surf line, the wave action stirs the sea floor. By such action, this provides fish with a plentiful food source. In sandy areas, the most common form of food would be clams and sand crabs. Both cru stations are highly nutritious and have a high fat content in which fish utilize for cold water protection. Some areas though are of a rocky terrain. Again, the wave action stirs the smaller sea life, which in return attracts the larger pelagic species. These food sources may include snails, urchins, small crabs, and often shrimp.

Let us now explore some of the species available utilizing this technique. This will be broken down into two sub-categories 1) sandy terrain and 2) rocky terrain. When considering the sandy bottom of the shoreline, bear in mind that there is no structure in which fish species may use for shelter. There are many species that can be caught from the shoreline depending on the baits chosen and the technique used. Species include but are not limited to barred surf perch, sand bass, shark, rays, halibut, flounder, and often species like barracuda. All of these species consume the same types of foods, these include clams, sand crabs, algae, and other small fish. Rocky terrains will offer many of the same species, but , also numerous other species will be found. These include, but are not limited to barred surf perch, opal eye perch, shiner perch, mackerel, smelts, sharks, sand bass, rock bass, cabazon, lingcod, and others.

Equipment needs will vary some depending on the areas chosen. Generally speaking though, equipment will be the same or similar, as well as the baits or lures used. Let us first briefly look at rods and reels. Rods need to be of a sufficient length in order to create a “whipping” action on the rod. This action allows the fisherman to generate more power to get the weight and baited hook further out. Typically surf rods are 9 to 15 feet in length, again choose equipment based of the area to be fished. Reels for surf rods are of the spin cast style, this means that the is a metal bar around the spool of line that guides the line onto the spool. When casting, this bar is flipped up, after the fisherman holds the line against the rod with his/her finger. This type of reel is preferred because of the ease of casting, as well as the reeling power provided by the design. On a sandy beach, the fisherman will also need what is called a sand spike. This is a v-shaped piece of metal, typically about 3-4 feet in length, made of aluminum with a sharp point to drive into the sand. About 1 foot up from this point is a triangular shaped piece of metal that helps prevent the spike from falling over with surf action or fish strikes. Along one side on this spike is also a cup to place the rod end into and a v-shape notch at the top of the spike to hold the rod.

Weights are needed in order to get your bait into the surf line, these need to be of a sufficient weight to perform this task. Most weights commonly used are in the 4-8 oz range. There are two types of weights used for sandy surf fishing 1) an anchor weight or 2) a pyramid weight. The anchor weight is literally just as the name implies. It is a weight designed to dig into the sandy bottom to minimize movement. It is of a triangular shape with two protrusions on both sides of the bottom of the weight. The pyramid weight, again is what the name implies. It is a four sided weight that forms into a point. This is used if you want your weight to sink into the sand to keep it stationary. When surf fishing in a rocky terrain, these two types of weights would not be practical. Instead, most people use what is known as a tear drop. The tear drop is a cylindrical shape that tapers slightly at either end. This design allows for the weight to more easily glide through any kelp or rocky crevices that the weight may get caught upon. Often a round ball style will be used.
Lines used in surf fishing come in two types, monofilament and Dacron. Both have their pros and cons. Dacron line is a very tough strong line that is resistant to most environments. It will not fray easily, nor will it have much stretch. This kind of line is ideal when fishing from shore along a rocky terrain. While monofilament, or mono, is more suited to sandy fishing. It has more stretch which is important when reeling a fish through the surf. Mono does fray easily if used in rocky areas though and will break quickly if frayed. Dacron will degrade quickly if not rinsed thoroughly with fresh water after your fishing trip. Mono should be rinsed as well in order to minimize line degradation. As far as weight line goes, this means the amount of weight the line will hold, the most common found is around the 25 pound test range. It may not sound like a lot, but when in the water it can easily withstand 4-5 times its class. For example, you are fishing in the surf in a sandy area, there is a fish on the line that weighs 35 pounds, since 25 pound test can accommodate 4-5 times its class, a fish that is a hundred pounds is no problem.

Hooks come in many styles, sizes, and even colors. It is important to match the size hook to the species being sought. This should be a no brainer, but using hooks that are the size of the fish being sought will yield no results, and the opposite is also true, you do not want a hook so small you will not be able to bait the hook. When choosing a hook it is also very important to get hooks that are designed and made for use in salt water. Fresh water hooks will work, but will rust and corrode very quickly.

Finally we come to baits. Baits can be just about anything, but again try to match it to species being sought after. Smaller baits such as sand crabs and sand fleas are optimal for perch, but if sand bass is the species of choice, then a live bait such as a small shiner perch or jack smelt would be a better option. If, in the rocky shore line live baits and whole squid would be the most effective baits. Artificials are often used more in the rocky shore area, examples include diamond jigs, .scampii jigs, large crank baits, and grubs. This work well when fishing from a sheer rock face, in which the grubs and jigs can be bounced along the wall face.

In summation, no matter the type of surf fishing you choose in California, it is important to research the area in which you will be fishing. One great, but often overlooked, resource is the Dept. of Fish and Game. These officers can provide a great deal of information as to the species in the area, numbers of species, best baits, general size ranges, and well as areas that are illegal to fish. Go to your local beach and talk with the fishermen, you will learn a great deal about techniques and baits that work best in that area. Finally, be sure you have a fishing license, because surf fishing in California requires a license

Lowering auto insurance

Lowering auto insurance or even finding auto insurance can be a daunting experiance, especially if you are a first time shopper for auto insurance. There are a considerable amount of variables to be considered. I can not begin to cover all of the possible variables so I will touch on some of the biggest obstacles.

First, one must keep in mind is the make, model, year, and mileage. Some models of vehicles have a much higher rate to insure. These may include SUV's, sports cars, big rigs, and so forth. SUV's can be a higher rate due to fact that most are classified as luxury vehicle. Luxury vehicles have a higher rate of being stolen. Sports cars can have a higher rate mostly because many people who own these types of vehicles tend to drive them at excessive speeds and they also seem to be involves in many more accidents. This may be due to the speeds involved. Obviously this is not a complete list but an inkling of what insurance companies look at when considering insurance.

Second, one must keep in mind that different companies have different policies. It is vital that a person shop around. Ask questions of the prospective insurers about how they make their determination. Ask if they have any discounts for safe drivers, no tickets, and so forth.

Third, age is probably one of the largest factors insurance carriers look at. Lets face it, a teen driver or a driver in their early twenties have no real driving record yet. Yet they also have a nasty reputation for being unsafe. Although this is totally false, it happens. Again ask questions.

In summation it is vital to shop around and ask questions. It is not easy and can be somewhat time consuming. but it is well worth the effort. You may be pleasantly suprised at how low your rates can really be if you ask the right questions. I can not nor will I reccomend specific companies. This would not be ethical. So be diligent in your search.

Small Business Loans

Small businesses today are in a very complex and challenging arena. They are often caught between the proverbial rock and a hard place. As a small business starts, there are a vast array of hurdles one must successfully cross, or be out of business. In order to start any small business, the business owner must have a large amount of operational capital. In order to have this capital, the small business owner often must place themselves at the mercy of the banking institutions and their big name competitors. The small business owner must also have frequent access to cash flow services, this is necessary in order for the small business to pay employees, obtain merchandise, office equipment, and so forth. The small business owner or prospective owner then begins the foray into the world of banking and credit.

In order for the small business to get off the ground, he/she visits the bank for a business loan, the bank then asks for credit checks, credit references, collateral to secure any loans, and to sign their souls away in blood. If the owner passes these requirements, then often big name competitors begin a relentless campaign to shut them down. The small business owner feels helpless and very frustrated. After all competition is a healthy thing.  I understand this first hand as I am a small business owner.

When I was first starting my business I wish I had known about groups like this one. Knowing that there was a group of people, who themselves, are small business owners, are there to provide some operational venture capital to allow the small business owner to focus on his/her business. This group is focused on small automotive garages or repair shops. The amounts available vary, but can reach as high as $250,000.00. Imagine what you can do with amount of capital. Really build your inventory base?, add more storage space?, the list is endless.

So groups like this that provide small business loans are essential for the success of any small business.

Pogo games

I have been playing pogo games for a couple of years now, and have found it to be highly entertaining and even educational. My personal favorite game on pogo is Bingo Luai. It combines elements of bingo, a catchy carribean flavor to the graphics and music. I'll be the first to admit that I am hooked on the game.

Most of the people that frequent the games on pogo are a great bunch. Very friendly, helpful, and just general goofballs. The players come from all walks of life male, female, huge racial diversity, educations, occupations, and so forth.

The point is obviously to get a gingo in the prescribed pattern. As you gain in points, you can trade in those points for a chance to win a cash jackpot and or other merchandise. All I can say is check it out.

A review of a hypnotherapy website

After review of the website I was left with the impression of a company that is possibly just starting up and is not able to afford a better program. I will discuss a few concerns with the site and with hypnotherapy in general.

I am a little perplexed by the diagram of the human brain used. When different catagories were chosen, a section of the brain would then be highlighted. Most people really do not care as to which portion of the brain is used for in dealing with addiction, psychosocial, or emotional concerns. Hypnotherapy is still in its infancy and much more research is required before I personally would submit to such a treatment option.
Based off of personal experiance and observations, the use of hypnotherapy is marginal at best. But the major concern is that there are many unscrupulous persons out there performing these " therapies " for many nefarious reasons. Some are in it only for a buck or two, while others take advantage of a vulnerable individual and exploit these peoples insecurities for financial, sexual, or even political/social gain.
While I was reviewing the site what stuck me as odd was that even though the therapist was certified, there was no mention of being accredited or bonded within that specific state. What also seems odd is the dates on the bottom of the site copyright 2006-2007. I may not know much of how these things work, but this tells me that the site was initiated in 2006 and 2007. Was the buisness closed but the site never shut down?. It is a bit ambiguous.

I also noted that there was no buisness address stated on the website. Upon doing a reverse phone number look up using http://www.yellowpages.com/ I noted the physical address. Do I feel something funny is going on here?. NO. but it does seem as though the site was not well conceived, designed, and built. The overall layout is rough, but I really do love the simplistic design.

Site review

This is a paid website review.

Alrighty, this is going to be a difficult review as I do not live in the Dallas area or even in Texas anymore. I checked out the site http://repairpal.com/  and found it to be a very helpful service locator. When you log into the site  http://repairpal.com/ the page opens with prompts to enter year, make, model, and problem. You are also asked to enter your zip code. When this is completed you are given options of what the problem may be, cost estimates, and shops in your area. The area in which you select problem is a listing of common issues for each major system. It is a very helpful listing.

I reviewed a link provided by the advertiser on the Chevy Silverado. On the following link, you can enter your own respective thoughts and opinions on the Silverado. I have never personally owned or even driven a Silverado.  I did read a few of the reviews and most are favorable in their opinions of the Silverado, since so many are happy with it I may just consider looking into getting one. http://repairpal.com/dallas-auto-repair.

Another requested link http://repairpal.com/brake-rotor-replacement provides great information about brakes and related parts. It describes even in basics how things work, which is great for me since I am as mechanically inclined as a brick. There is a ton of great information that is well worth checking out if you are a mechanic, do it your selfer, or just want to gain basic knowledge.

Here we go again

An attempt discriminates!. Well this is going be a tough one to do...ok no not really. As before I will break it down based off of the sentence structure and connotation.

An attempt discriminates-WOW that's heavy, so is this to mean that for every time we try to do anything at all we activly engage in discrimination?. But the big question is who and or what are we discriminationg against?. This could mean that we discriminate against ourselves. By this this I mean that by the very fact that we are human, we spurn anything that is different or unusual, and like it or not we see differences and unusual traits within ourselves. Is it any wonder our species is soooooooo jacked?...Think about it