by Captain Jim Onderdonk

Don't let the summer-time heat ruin your fishing. By June or July it starts to really heat up, making most people want to call it quits early in the day. I think this is unfortunate, because some of the best fishing around is available, if you just go a little bit later. At night everything cools down to make for a much more comfortable and exciting experience. This is one of my favorite insider secrets, and I'm here to tell you how to do.

There are many bad things that can happen while fishing at night if you aren't careful. For this reason you should never fish along at night-time. Here are some tips to keep you safe:

* Your fishing partner should be aware of the aware of the area you are fishing in and your surrounds.

* While navigating, wear your P.D.F.'s.

* Be sure to leave a trip plan with someone back home.

* Plan your wade, where you want to start your first wade, to your second or third, you may not ever have to leave your first spot!

HOW: Once you are settled in at the first point, lighting is your next thing to focus on. Your boat should have an anchor light, which you need to turn on now. This alerts other boaters in the area, and acts as a guide for you in the dark. You will also want to pick up some LED headlamps from your local sporting goods store (don't forget batteries!) to give you hands free light while wade fishing.

A glo-stick is another useful item to have while out on the water. Drape one of these around your neck and let it hang off your back to keep boaters (and hopefully your buddy's lure) away. In case of an emergency or dead batteries you can also use this as a backup light to make your way back to the boat. Don't get too far apart from your partner, you need to stay within talking distance at all times.

WHEN: I have had my best luck around a full moon. The moon light helps silhouette your baits, thus making for any easy target for a hungry trout out on the prowl! Try tying a 10 to 12 inch leader to the first snap ring, next to the treble hook. Rig a 1/6th oz jig head with a plum or morning glory colored plastic (dark colors) and tie it on the leader (called Donk's tangler).

I know what you're thinking, but just try it and you will be surprised. Work it the same way you would the top water. The fish will hit the soft plastic every time! I like to fish with braided line (Power Pro), it allows you to feel what you can't see. You will know when you have a hook up!

Major feeding times, according to Solunar tables, are a great time to fish. I use a 5 hour time-frame around what the tables call these prime times. It's no guarantee but has worked for me in the past.

WHERE: There are many places in South Texas to go for Trophy Trout. I fish all around Baffin Bay, including Alazan Bay and East Kleberg point. Hopefully these tips work well for you, TIGHT LINES!

About the Author:
Captain Jim Onderdonk is a professional fishing guide who specializes in wadefishing for big speckled trout and redfish in Texas, and uses Brown Lures' wade fishing supplies. "Donk" suggests you try out some from Brown Lures for your next fishing trip.