(OT ) Fishing with Dogs

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.

Pepperoni
reposted from 1996