It Rocks at Carters' Dock

The hospitality of Melvin and Sharon Carter is enjoyed by many. They, graciously, allow many friends, and friends' friends to invade their space. In St. Augustine, a multitude of fishermen, "fisherwomen" and "fisherkids" have felt the joy of their friendship. We are, all, fortunate to know them.

The view from the dock at sunrise and early morning. Night fishing is especially enjoyable because of the floodlights illuminating the water. Many times the water takes on the appearance of a sea aquarium.

There are plenty of BIG fish and little fish in the river. Sometimes they won't fit in the cooler. Other times, the smaller ones create memories for the kids. Granddaughters, Jenna, Kendra and Carlee enjoy the unusual "Lookdown Fish". It gets its name from the downward slope of its face, eyes to mouth. Many people call them Moonfish because of their round shape, and silver color.

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When the youngsters, like Jared, decide that it's time for a rest, you will still find the "hardcore" fishermen, like his uncle Bryan, still catchin' em

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Traci's family doesn't get to come often, but they make evenings of fishing even more enjoyable when they are here.

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Father and son, Greg and Greg Ruesch caught "Sailor's Choice" and "Drum". The fish were not big, but the fun and bonding were.

Mike (Jr.) and Mike (III) Cowart have fished the dock many times. On this occasion they took home two coolers full of "maritime bounty". I enjoyed teaching Trey the very important skill of telling fishing lies....err...fishing tales. His Black Rock Fish was a prize. Trey's only question, after fishing all day, was, "When are we coming back?"
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Our neighbor. Spencer Sargent, visited the dock for the first time on a cold evening in February. With the patience and persistence he showed, he is welcome to go fishing with me anytime. I'm sure there will be many more posts on my blog about his angling adventures.

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James Preslar has been the very best friend a person could have. He and I have kicked around together for a long time, now. He is a good fisherman, and always willing to share outdoor experiences with me. He's holding a Red Drum (a.k.a. "Red Fish" or "Red Bass") and a Spotted Sea Trout.

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Brett Pielstick and his son, Dagan, are family friends who I don't have the opportunity to fish with often. The times we have had, though, have been fun. They're holding a Nurse Shark that Dagan was none too enthusiastic about touching. Nurse Sharks are quite tasty, if prepared properly.

Billie's uncle H.M. and uncle Tommy caught Sea Trout at the Carters' dock. They speak, fondly, of the great time they had. Seeing them enjoy their night of fishing was much better than catching them myself.