It has come to my attention that dogs are eager hunters/fishers, and with
minimal training and
equipment, they are multi functional either for field or water game
recovery.
Poodles are especially effective for shark fishing, as sharks are
extremely sensitive to foul odors and
smells. Long tailed dogs are more effective than bob-tails as the use of
trail hooks is greatly enhanced
by the longer tails. Use of large spinner blades on each appendage greatly
enhances the fish attracting
ability of these very capable fishing dogs.
It is recommended that the hook harness be attached with ties of lesser
strength than the main line to
allow the fishing dog to be broken free upon the strike to facilitate
fighting the fish and recovery of
the fishing dog for further sets.
It is important to remember to use the fishing dogs only for surface
fishing, as the dog (when properly
trained) will signal the fisherman/handler to the approaching strike.
Bobbers and other flotation devices
are not used as they impede the natural action of the fishing dogs.
Always carry dogs in various colors and patterns as varying light and
water conditions make some
colors/patterns more effective at differing times of day. Also the sharks
are not stupid......a shark
previously hooked by a Dalmatian for example will most often refuse to
approach spotted fishing
dogs.....switch to a red or black and tan under these conditions. Some
sharks prefer smaller or larger
fishing dog combinations.....carry several fishing dogs in various sizes in
each preferred color
combination.
Fishing with dogs is a very hazardous sport. Always retrieve the fishing
dog with a net when possible
to avoid injury both to the dog and fisherman. The possibility of loss of a
treasured fishing dog is
always possible, and often unavoidable. We must remember that shark
fishing, especially, is dangerous
for these courageous and spirited fishing dogs, but with proper care a good
fishing dog may be in peak
condition for several fun-filled years. Use of dogs is no longer
recommended in North America for Orca
fishing due to several well publicized recent incidents.