Fishing to Hear Rodeo, Venice Louisiana 2009.

First let me start by thanking Darryl and Christina Couvillion for their commitment to raising funds for children who have hearing impairments. I also want to say "CUDOS" to Venice Marina and the gracious owners that were on the docks working hard to make this happen Mike and Bill Butler are wonderful stewards of Plaquemines Parrish and Venice waters. Thanks to all the Captains (20) or more that donate their time, knowledge, boat and tackle to raise the funds for this special event. http://www.fishingtohear.org/

The event starts with a "Block-Party" that includes fun for the entire family. This year there was a great band, wonderful food and fun things for the kids as well as some adult beverages. The weather was great and the raffle was fun, the winners were announced and the fishing day had been set.

The next part of the event, which is leading to the fishing itself, is the registration and Captains Party. This is a special time where the children meet each other and the winner of the donated funds is announced as well as past winners give testimonials of how this one special event changes their ENTIRE lives FOREVER. (wow, that is powerful)....

Sunday morning the boats line up and the fishing day is here. FTH provides drinks, sandwiches, chips and snacks to all the Captains and fishing crews for the day.

SO, it's 6am and were off.

20 Venice Captains competing against each other for a trophy and bragging rights. All I can say is these guys are the best in the business and I'm proud to call them my friends! We fished in one area catching Yellow Fin Tuna like crazy. But what made the day so special was each Captain used the radio to call over other boats, friends and Captains to get in on this action. Although, we were each trying for the "Cock of the Dock" and the FTH trophy, each Captain was a true sport and put everyone they could reach on the exact Latitude and Longitude of these open water busting Yellow Fin Tuna.....

The day concluded with a weigh in and handing out of trophies and YES another successful FTH rodeo was bagged up.

Captain Mike Gray
www.cajunodysea.com