SUP, the 4.4, Tarpons, and Malotte'

Ever since Mooch let me paddle his SUP Ive been interested in doing some sight fishing from one, so when my paddling buddies from work needed a day on the water last week, we gave it a shot. We took out the beloved 4.4 ,that is almost as fun to watch as it is to paddle, a couple Tarpons, and a 10 foot SUP.
I learned alot and of course I ended up swimming. My big swing style of paddling didnt crossover to the SUP very well and I definately shouldve read "the Lairds" SUP article in "canoe and kayak" BEFORE I went. MY buddy BH has been on it for few months and it showed, but I must confess I felt better about my fall after watching BH take a swim as well. The workout is fantastic! and all those winter hours on the balanceboard really helped. I still have alot of homework to do and I want to test alot more boards before I buy, but there is definatley one in my future. Hopefully before springtime sightfishing starts.
After we had paddled/fished the entire edge of our usual lake county water, we loaded up the gear and met a guy who wanted to show us his boats. I snapped of a couple shots for the OGs that go back far enough to recall these classic craft.
As far as the fishing goes, we managed 5 or 6 substandard issues on the usual flavors in the usual spots and spotted the usual monsters in their usual haunts but we were unable to seduce.
All in all a great day on the water.
here are some visuals

Terry thanks for the report and sharing the fun. I bought my 1st Malotte scout 2 in 1974. I also do body and paint work. That guy has really put some time and dough into the work on the SOT that was one of the 2 basically available in the early 70's. Stand up bass fishing. Thats just sic.

Must be a thrill handling a big fish from a SUP!  Thanks for the report and pictures Terry.

Sweet pics! I love the dockwork action shot!

& the malottes are off the hook! The flames are styling! No wonder the owner wanted to show 'em off. They belong in a hot rod kayak show (or OTW)!

Terry,

love the new approach. Can't wait to see you fishing that way at the end of October up at CL when the temps are 42 and the minnow bite is happening. Take care,

Shannon

Pioneering at its finest! Good stuff Terry. Thanks for sharing that w/us.
PK

Those two Malotte's are stylin'!  Someone has taken great care of their toys.