Just wanted to reach out to the newbies and the veterans of hooping with the following info:
*First and foremost........You must have a new report card for the 2015-2016 season, the report card that you used last season is no longer valid. You can order your card
online or at your local tackle shop (call before you go just to make sure they are an authorized retailer)
*Stay Safe
*Get all of your gear in order BEFORE you launch, best bet it to get it in order before you even leave your house. I can't tell you how many times I've seen kayakers show up at the launch unprepared and taking up the entire launch trying to setup their gear
*Make sure you have all of your required items with you before you leave your house; Lobster report card, measuring gauge, buoy lights, headlamp and a light pole for your kayak, hoop nets, etc.
*This isn't a must but you'll thank me later..........make sure you have at least two gauges. Keep one on a lanyard ready to use and another safely stored in your PFD or somewhere on your kayak. If you happen to lose your go-to gauge while on the water or misplace it you will have one stored close by. DON'T GET CAUGHT WITHOUT ONE.
*Stay safe
*Don't take 100' of rope for each net if you know you're going to hope 30' of water. I have all of my lines setup in 50' sections, if I hoop 30' I use a single 50' section, if I hoop 60' I'll add another 50' section. All of my lines have a loop on either end, this allows me to add or remove lines quickly
*don't forget that the limit is 7 spiny lobster(I forget the limit for both red, yellow and spider crabs but you can find it online) Always check your kayak for shorts, every so often you'll find one of those little boogers hiding in some corner of the kayak, they are very easy to miss
*completely fill out your report card with your catch before you land, you must also fill it out as soon as you start hooping. If you fish both flat and ambush style nets you must have a separate line filled out for each one. If you look at the back of the report card it will give you instructions on how to fill it out properly. If it's not filled out before you land there is a good chance you'll be going home with a citation.
*stay safe
*Please, please treat the wardens with respect, they are there to do their job. I have never had a bad experience with a Warden, most if not all of the experiences that we've had have been pleasant at times quiet humorous. Treat well and I guarantee you that you'll end your night well.
that's all I can think of for now, I'm sure others will chime in with additional tips.