Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Blowout

Heavy surf. Really?

We knew we were screwed as we drove north to the end of the beach road and saw, suspended above the dunes, dozens of windsurfing kites. The urgency with which they pulled against their restraining wires told us that our angling day was shot. The kites might as well have been flying No Fishing signs – signs that our final day to cruise the South Padre flats was a blowout.

But that’s not to say we didn’t try – just a little – but the wind gods were against us. Rather, we spent the bulk of the day wandering the dunes, looking longingly into the Gulf surf for diving birds or Jack Crevalle-driven baitfish, and taking one last half-hearted, unsuccessful shin-deep dip into the waters of the Laguna Madre. Disappointing.

But, I’ve got to admit, if you're forced to deal with disappointment, this is a mighty fine place to do it.



Keeping the flags straight.

Prayers to the local surf gods go unanswered.

But there's beauty in the dunes.

And ugliness. (O)ops indeed. Pack it out, asshole.

Practicing. Just in case.

But if the fishing's poor, this ain't a bad fallback.

A day well spent - fish or no.

9 comments:

Fly Waters Edge - Kevin said...

Not a bad ending to what I bet was a great trip. Blue sky, warm sun and surf!

Chris said...

Best nap I've had in a while, honestly...

Sanders said...

Even if the surf gods weren't listening, looks like a pretty good place to close it out.

Cheers

Mike Sepelak said...

You're right, Kevin. A cooldown day in a great place was not a bad way to ebd the trip.

I didn't notice, Chris, 'cause I was snoozin' as well, shortly after taking that shot.

Amen, Sean. Next time, come see for yourself.

Emily Brisse said...

Looks like a windy, wonderful day. That's a great last shot. :)

Kirk Mantay said...

My heart aches for the ocean. Luckily, I'm headed there in 3 weeks. Wonderful pix.

Mike Sepelak said...

Windy and wonderful describe it quite nicely, Emily. Thanks!

Glad to be able to give you a little preview, RM. Enjoy your trip.

cofisher said...

All's well that ends well or as well as it can. Thanks for the trip Mike.

Mike Sepelak said...

The trip was an All's Well, for sure, Howard. My pleasure for the report.