From Capt. Charlie @ Fishing Center - Ft Pierce

It's been very wet lately along the Treasure Coast. Not only the usual afternoon thunderstorms, but lots of rainy mornings have made it a challenge to get out and enjoy the water. We have dodged rain clouds and sought shelter from the lightning most days. Watch the conditions and don't take unnecessary chances on the water!

The fishing has been good for us with a variety of fish to keep anglers busy. Trout, snapper and sheepshead are plentiful around the river and some nice size fish can be had this month. Fish the grass flats early and move to the deeper edges or sand bars later in the morning. DOA shrimp, CAL jerk baits or live bait can help you find the bite on the flats. The snapper have been all over the docks, channel edges and structured areas, with some nice size fish available. You can find lots of jacks and ladyfish around the river for the kids. Snook fishing around the jetties has remained good for night anglers. July is always a good month to enjoy the fishing action. 

July and August are hot months in the area. Some days will find very little wind and lots of warm temperatures. Heat Stroke and Heat Exhaustion can occur at any time of these hot days. Knowing the symptoms and what to do can help save a life. Here are some facts and tips to help you this summer on the water:

Heat Stroke/Exhaustion

With the heat of summer upon us, make sure you have a plan for an emergency. Heat stroke and heat exhaustion is always a possibility when out on the water.

SIGNS:
Heat exhaustion:
Cool, moist, pale, or flushed skin; heavy sweating; headache; nausea or vomiting; dizziness; and exhaustion. Body temperature will be near normal.

Heat stroke:
Hot, red skin; changes in consciousness; rapid, weak pulse; and rapid, shallow breathing. Body temperature can be very high-- as high as 105 degrees F. If the person was sweating from heavy work or exercise, skin may be wet; otherwise, it will feel dry.

TREATMENT:
Heat exhaustion:
Get the person out of the heat and into a cooler place. Remove or loosen tight clothing and apply cool, wet cloths, such as towels or sheets. If the person is conscious, give cool water to drink. Make sure the person drinks slowly. Give a half glass of cool water every 15 minutes. Do not give liquids that contain alcohol or caffeine. Let the victim rest in a comfortable position, and watch carefully for changes in his or her condition.

Heat stroke:
Heat stroke is a life-threatening situation. Help is needed fast. Call 911 or your local emergency number. Move the person to a cooler place. Quickly cool the body. Immerse victim in a cool bath, or wrap wet sheets around the body and fan it. Watch for signals of breathing problems. Keep the person lying down and continue to cool the body any way you can. If the victim refuses water or is vomiting or there are changes in the level of consciousness, do not give anything to eat or drink.

Check out the Red Cross web site for more information: www.redcross.org Have a safe summer and enjoy the fishing on the Treasure Coast!