11-26-08 fishing report from Captain Van Hubbard. Thanksgiving "08" fishing report from Captain Van Hubbard. It blew hard and got chilly around here so I stayed off the water for a week. It was so warm; (up to almost eighty) I did slip out yesterday to do some scouting for the weeks fishing. It was slick calm and beautiful. I found plenty of pompano to get excited about but the ladyfish and bluefish were so thick I could not get passed em to catch many pompano. Life is not bad when your biggest problem is too many fish even if they are not desired species. You can get a mess of fresh pompano but carry plenty of jigs and expect to catch a variety. This is just perfect for kids and other impatient anglers. I enjoyed lots of catching action and strong fish to challenge anglers and gear. Pompano ranged from almost big enough to fat two plus pound slabs so fine they may replace turkey on the table tomorrow. Trout are closed but look promising for New Years opening. Many small fish but some nice ones too. It is good to see them plentiful again maybe Fish and Wildlife will give us a Christmas present and open it up year round again. So I'm a dreamer. I did get several reports of king mackerel offshore in about seventy feet. They were eating shrimp sent down for snapper and deep trolled spoons. Redfish and sheepshead were scattered around and offer opportunities if your patient. Flats waters are crystal clear and beautiful. Pond birds and white pelicans are everywhere. Eagles and osprey are mating and dancing in the clear blue skies most days. I saw several manatees yesterday and dolphin are everywhere. If fish are slow the scenery is great. Let's Go Fishin' soon. Captain Van Hubbard.