Southern Latitudes

Here's a two fer...

Just wish I was reading my mag while staying at Jensen's. Check 'em both out. 

www.gocaptiva.com

www.gardenandgun.com

Standing in the Surf Waving a Stick

I recently returned from a trip to Captiva…well at least in the physical sense. I guess it’s true what the t-shirt says…Captiva - a little island with a big fishing problem.

This trip would also consist of “T’s” first trip to Norm Zeigler's Fly Shop on Sanibel Island. Having outgrown his fishing shirt, we were in search of a replacement. “T” had been inquiring about fly fishing for months now and Uncle Mike was more than happy to assist one who has apparently been called to explore this art which has chosen yet another to join the fold. We left Norm’s with a shirt, vest, fly box, several of Norm’s Crystal Schminnow pattern flies, a zinger, forceps and a nipper…after a stop at The Bean for an iced coffee we were on our way to practice…

Fortunately for us there is a wide open space, mowed short, directly across from where we stay. It is the perfect place to practice…standing in a field waving a stick. The night before we ate at the Lazy Flamingo, the one at blind pass. We traditionally take our catch of the day after having gone out on the water with Captain Rob McKay, pictured above, of Santiva Saltwater Fishing Team fame, to be prepared by the chef at the Flamingo. After completing the trash can slam, “T” was getting anxious to do some real catching. Before he could confer with our guide about the bait he would need to catch a shark…T’s not so hidden agenda for this trip, his rod bent…the hook was set and he was in for a memorable fight. With some coaching…and no assistance from his boat mates…T landed his first shark. 
                            

We kept some trout that we caught and had them fried up at the Flamingo. The kids meals are served on inverted Frisbees with the Lazy Flamingo logo on them…we used the Frisbee as a target while practicing our fly casting. Though conditions did not prove favorable to get on the water with the fly rod, T showed natural ability.

Early one morning, while walking the beach, my wife and I came upon a young man with a fly rod…after observing him from a distance for a few minutes it became clear that he, like “T” was seeking the rhythm that would cause the line to loop, load and shoot into the surf beyond. After learning that this was his first attempt at learning to cast a fly, I shared some knowledge imparted upon me by others chosen as well.

I am always humbled by the greatness of the sea…and blessed to spend time upon her waters. To share a gift that has been given to us with others is one of the greatest rewards of all.

Teach a man to fish…
Mike

RC Otter's Restaurant Review

 

Located on Andy Rosse Lane in Captiva Village, The Otter has perfected the "Island Eatery". We chose to eat inside tonight as it's still a bit chilly. We could have eaten on the porch or the patio under one of the many infrared heaters. As always, local talent playing Island Music entertained the crowd. A fun, family atmosphere earns them a 4 out of 5.

As my top picks indicate, go for the grouper. All four of us ordered the Crunchy Grouper Basket and we all went away happy. For fried fish, it doesn't get much better, earning them a 4 out of 5 for quality of food.

The wait staff was very attentive and work well as a team. A perfect score is in order; 5 out of 5.

As for value, it's the kind of place you can take the family, make everybody happy and not feel like you needed to take out a second mortgage...as can be the case in some resort areas. 4.5 out of 5 for value. 

This has been a perennial favorite when on the island. We always have at least one meal here. When all else fails you can count on the old reliable Otter for good eats. 

The Journey

Food and fishing...two topics, neither of which I consider myself to be an expert, but both are ones where I am experienced and enjoy immensely. It's all fair game...restaurant reviews, catch and release, fish as food, you get the idea.

You will quickly catch on that Sanibel and Captiva Islands are a favorite spot and lend themselves well to both topics.

Though I use a variety of fishing methods, I have been chosen to Fly Fish. I once heard it said "one does not choose to fly fish but is chosen to do so."

As we journey together I wish you tight lines and an abundant table.

Mike