Marlin and Yellowfin Mania
Just wanted to report that me and my family had the most fantastic overnight fishing trip out of Venice with Strike Zone Charters on the 55'Ocean on August 2-3. Gary Bonanno and his crew could not have done a better job in preparing for us and making the trip for me, my children Morgan "MoJo" (13), Cameron (12) and Savannah (9) Wooley, and a couple of other family members an experience to remember. We said "Green Canyon" or bust! And was it ever worth the trip out.

We did the overnighter to the 125 mile location, and busted up on the blackfin, yellow fin, a couple of bull dolphin, and the beauty of a 300+ lb blue marlin with another that we just didn't bring in! One of the tuna was a 130 pounder. Under the absolutely uncanny direction of Captain Kevin Aderhold, and unstoppable crew of Seth Holl and J.W. Berry,there was no stopping my little "crew" from catching the biggest fish and having a great time.

I truly thought that my 13 year old, Morgan, might not come home and stay living in Venice to work the back deck. We never stopped fishing except to make the run out and back, with Captain Kevin and crew working every angle and technique to catch the boat load of fish that we caught and brought home. And to see my little girl of 9, Savannah, bring in a yellow fin tuna was an experience I won't forget. The kids won't forget the experience of landing the beautiful blue marlin, its tagging and safe and healty release back to her own home.

Many high fives to Gary, Kevin, Seth and JW because I wouldn't have done this with the kids without their guidance and direction. Heck, I even got to catch my own fish...after I convinced my kids to let me that I just might be able to! In the process of planning another trip now for more fish and fun because it certainly was a kick. Thanks guys. It was AWESOME!

And I must really say thanks to the ladies and gentlemen at Paradise Louisiana for promoting the great outdoor activities of our wonderful state. To feature all that you do, especially encouraging the youth and children of our state to understand, appreciate, participate in and preserve the natural resources right in our own backyard, is a true testament to the sincerity of your efforts.

Julie Fusilier, Morgan, Cameron and Savannah