ARW 5/28

Arrived at the rockwall this morning around 6:30 or so and was in the water ten minutes before 7.  Paddled out to the gap in the wall via the naval side before shooting out into the bay and paddling a bit further along the next wall (the pelican and seal reserve).  About to the third concrete post in the top of the wall (300 ft out, of course ). 

After no more than two minutes of fishing I catch my first fish from a kayak, a 24" halli.  I think that was the fastest I've ever hooked up on a fish! 

Hey Bungle.... congrats on your first kayak fish.  My first kayak fish was also a halibut at the rockwall.

Also possibly a good spot for shiners in Alameda is the Grand St. boat launch area.

I agree.  This is my favorite spot for shiners.  All you need is a good tide and a sabiki there.

Gary, I got the cast net I'm using now (the box is labeled "super spreader") from Cabelas because I had trouble finding one locally that was made with a 1/4" mesh.  Outdoor Pro Shop has them, but chances are they'll be the 3/8" mesh that tends to catch the gills of smelt and anchovy.  I just checked Cabelas so I could provide a link for you, but it doesn't look like they carry it anymore.

1/4" mesh is the way to go!!!  I've been trying to find one for some time.

Bungle, I can tell you'll be an awesome kayak fisherman.  You know your stuff!!!! 

A google search for cast nets gave a bunch of links and lots of 3/8" mesh nets.  However I wanted to go with Nate's recommendation and use a 1/4" mesh net.  The link that gave the best results at reasonable prices was: www.castnetworld.com  I'm not sure I'm going to find one locally.

Next question...what size net do people use?  3' sounds too small so I was leaning towards the 4' or 5' nets.  Any advice besides "the one that catches bait", LOL.

Ariel, I'll catch up with you on a local fishing trip if I'm not in LA visiting my Dad and my brother.  I'm surprised that you didn't hook up with something on the lively ghost shrimp that you mooched.  That's good local FRESH bait.

Nate, I'm glad you were able to show that the stripers weren't the only game in town...good job.

Gary (Sandman)

Congrats Nate.

Looks like one tasty flatty. If you keep it up at the wall, save a slab for me. Been jonesing for some hali meat.