Wild Goose Chase
 

Had lines in looking for Mr. Tuna at 4:30am when while looking aft to observe our spread my fishing partner noted a flare in the sky. I looked and saw a parachute flare descending about 2-3 miles behind us. I called the Coast Guard and after 2 minutes of looking at all the bait around me, we pulled up all 6 rods and headed at a heading of 300 deg. for about 4 miles. The whole time I was conversation with CG Boston. After 3 miles there was light so I scanned the area with binoculars and headed back to fishing. Had lines back in by 0530 on a great morning. The CG sent out a cutter and called me when they got there. I started to wonder if I should of called them... I am 100% positive I saw a flare and hope it was only a hoax and nobody was in distress.

We dragged our spread into breaking 50-80 lb fish 3 times without a hit. I had 5 spreader all running clean with no luck. I also tried throwing a jig into them.

At least you did the right thing.
Many would just ignore it and keep fishing.

One time night fishing I was approached by the CG. They asked to see my flare kit because someone was shooting them off apparently for fun. After talking a bit he realized it was not me so they did not board me.

They must get BS when that happens.

MTC, You're seeing things 'Tuna Fever' has you bad :err: :hihi:

just kidding, you did the right thing, radios have a use beyond 68 + 69 chatter "ANYONE SEE CHARLIE, ANYONE HOOKING UP, ANYONE ANYONE ...."

Don't leave us hangin.... then what happen???

no fish in the boat

You did the right thing bud, You would not want somebody to keep fishing if you put up a flare, sorry if it was a wild goose chase but you just never know.

I heard the Coast Guard on the VHF this weekend make a report about a flare spotted around Stellwagon. Was that the one MTC?

It was Friday