Halibut adventure

edsr · 05-13-2003, 12:12 PM

I fished the opener on the "Blitz". Capt. Mike knows the area like the back of his hand.

It wasn't long after we reached the fishing spot that we began to hook-up and shortly the first shout of color showing. The quick slash of a gaff and the first fish of the day was on deck followed quickly by several more. We were off to a good start. We limited the boat and then went to try for rock fish with lighter gear.

Among us "sports" fishing were two older fellows who had a difficult time walking. One fellow in particular was rather unsteady and used a cane. On the second or so halibut drift he slipped and fell but we managed to stop some of his fall so he didn't get hurt. Later in the day when we went for rock fish he wasn't so lucky and really took a header, hit his head hard, was unconscious and bleeding. Several of the experienced hands bandaged his head and kept him in a stable position and the skipper called for Coast Guard help.

The patrol boat dropped two of their crew who then signaled the waiting helicopter for a basket. After a while they had him secured and in the lift basket which hoisted him into the helicopter.

So, not only did we catch fish but I also got to see the Coasties at work. The last report I heard was that he was doing O.K.

Did I mention that Capt. Mike knows this place like the back of his hand? Oh, and he can really handle his boat! I had a great time.

edsr

[ 05-13-2003, 01:13 PM: Message edited by: edsr ]

Pilar · 05-13-2003, 12:43 PM

Wow, great post Ed. I too have seen the CG in action off the S jetty in Tillamook. Those unfortunates were not so well off. 2 of 3 died.

It was impressive .. from the first call made from my boat on VHF 22 of 'Mayday, Mayday, Boat down off the S. Jetty!!!!!' to the appearance of the the big orange RIB boat was about 4 minutes flat. I did not know that boat could go so fast.

Then they drove it right onto the rocks and started pulling people out of the water. My heart was in my throat as I watched these professionals in action. They risk their lives to save yours.

Glad to hear that the guy is alright.

WP · 05-13-2003, 01:27 PM

The only time I can remember getting violently angry was in the early 1970's when I was at the bar in the Charleston, OR habor, after a day of fishing (Commercial) and hearing a conversation about the "loss" of a Coast Guard surf boat in a rescue operation on the bar. In the operation (small boat in rough conditions fishing right on the jetties went on the rocks)to rescue the people on the rocks and in the water, one of the boats went on the rocks and was lost. One sailor was lost and one "victim" was lost and two rescued. The men in the bar were complaining about the cost of the boat and the "stupidity" of the crew in losing the boat. I lost it! They are probably still wandering who that mad man was that attacked them (verbally I need to add)in the bar! I have the highest regard for the Coasties and the dangerous and important work they are called on to do. I have yet to see them hesitate to come to the rescue and never seen them so much as walk when a call comes in. They desrve our gratitude and support. Wave at them and be helpful when dealing with them. They are the last line of help and fortunately do a fantastic job. For the dollars we, as a nation, invest in the Coast Guard, we derive an extrordinary benefit. If you all can't guess, I am a whole hearted supporter and cheer leader! Go Coasties!
WP [img]graemlins/applause.gif[/img] [img]graemlins/applause.gif[/img] [img]graemlins/applause.gif[/img]

[ 05-13-2003, 02:34 PM: Message edited by: WP ]

Fishslayer · 05-13-2003, 01:30 PM

That was a great story. Glad to hear everything turned out ok. Nice pile of fish.

skein · 05-13-2003, 05:49 PM

Well said, WP. We've gotta be on their side because they sure as the hell are on ours. Go Coasties!

Skein

Fishplay · 05-13-2003, 09:05 PM

Hope that ole feller is doing well. The salt must really be in his blood as it is in ours.

Go Coasties!!!!!!

The big boat pulled up next to us and watched us bring a double to the boat. I chatted with them for quite a few minutes. They said they were doing well but not as good as we were. :grin: