Belle Chase, LA USA

I don't know Captain Al Walker nor am I a follower of his work but have heard great things. I am not a PHD but will testify that i don't need a degree neither to see the oil soaking or land.The other evening we kicked up cinder block sized oil from the bottom at south pass. How long will it take that to dissolve? There is no way this wont end up hurting our community for a long time. More than twenty years. Capt. Al is obviously a leader and probably knew he was going to take serious heat from his post. Guys like him are what our country was founded on. He has a mission and a right to stand up for his kind as we all do. I say organize your troops and take it all the way. I know for sure some oyster fisherman settled for one million per acre.By the way who are you Brother-in-law? Are you a PHD? No point intended.

Wednesday, July 21, 2010 @ 11:59:39 AM

Metairie, LA USA

Captain Al Walker thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you are doing for the animals, captains and the residents of our state. I have kept up with your media interactions and must say very well done. Your one hour interview this morning on BBC said it all.My husband even stated that one hour was more informative than any interview sense the spill. It is obvious you are the man to do the job.It is obvious why people such as Phillipe Cousteau are seeking you out. By the way your CNN live broadcast yesterday in the gulf with him was heart wrenching but someone has to do it You are the man to do it. Thank you, Thank You, Thank You.

Saturday, July 10, 2010 @ 4:45:02 PM

Venice, LA USA

Good Morning

Seems like since the Vessels of Opportunity set up by BP numerous captains have been confused on how and when they will go to work. Down in Venice for close to a month every time I turn around there are captains not happy and are forming petitions, protest etc.

I have worked four days since the start of the program myself and am confused on how something so simple seems to be so hard to get answers to.

The last I heard from the Logistics guy is we were to be 4 on 4 off. Then 7 on and 7 off and now we are to be there indefinitely. That is great if I were to get the info from the logistics guy that you call and text with no response. Heck I even saw the logistics guy the night before last and was not informed of any changes as he gave me a hug and said "I will call you later" because he was "so busy" and on the phone at the moment.

So the next morning I called the logistics guy still with no response. Well if you know me you know that I will get to the bottom of any situation and will have my opinion heard weather you want to hear it or not so I went to the source.

I went to speak to Mr. Todd of BP who heads the VOO down in Venice. I asked him for the list of rotation. He did not have one? Why? I mean your dealing with peoples lives and nothing simple as a rotation list. This is life and death for many out of work captains that BP "OWES" work to. I figured I was to work for BP under their rules if I met their criteria concerning the BP VOO not some individual that you cant ever reach.

Mr. Todd was very nice and said my concerns are warranted and he has had complaints.

I asked Mr. Todd of BP to to have the logistics guy produce a list of rotation on both docks and on the internet so we can illuminate any confusion the captains might have of favoritism and put us all on a equal platform. He agreed 100 percent and asked me to join a meeting this morning but I have prior obligations with a meeting with scientist and commercial fisherman today on the Toxicity Proposal to BP and Government.I would have loved to have made it.

I also will be heading to St. Bernard Parish  today to here the concerns of the fisherman that are eligible and not working on the VOO program. I along with these captains have a family to provide for so if anyone gets in the way of that kiss your ass goodbye.

Let it be known that anyone doing their job correctly will keep it. Anyone not doing their job correctly and showing favoritism will lose it immediately. That's that "brother".

Moving on

I took reef scientist and Environmental Ecologist Scott Porter of Lumcon to do some live rock sampling on the platforms Monday. We had journalist Rich Matthews of the Associated Press tag along.The story and video will be released today on AP.com on Yahoo, AOL and other web outlets. You can check it out there first. It will be hitting the international news channels this afternoon.

It is the worst dive yet. I have been documenting the spill since May 1 and handing over tapes to scientist for review.

I have videoed the plumes that don't exist since then watching with my own eyes of it taking on many different shapes and depths up to 190 foot.

I have dove and documented plumes of sticky droplets, powered plumes, fluffy plumes, cloudy plumes and now plumes around 140 foot of what I would describe as snot. You will see this in Rich Matthews news release today.

Check it out.

Any other captain out there with legit concerns of the VOO plan in your area please call me and we will nip it in the bud right now. I guarantee it.

Thank you

Wednesday, June 9, 2010 @ 7:18:41 AM

Venice, LA USA

I need all Captains in the fishing, crabbing, shrimping and oyster buisness that has either a Marine Biology degree or Enviromental Science degree to call me asap.

504-710-2950

If I dont answer leave a message.

Spread the word please.

Thanks

Thursday, May 27, 2010 @ 5:59:42 AM

Charleston, SC USA

Another great visit to Venice is past us and want to comment on what a great group of people that has always been there year after year in that little town. I dont know if it is luck or great captains that fill our boxes everytime but whatever it is we will take it. My two boys and son in law along with I have made four trips over the last four years five years with different outfitters. Real Peace, Paradise Out fitters , Big Game Fishing , and now Xtreme Charters. Captain Walker rounded them out perfectly with his character and ability to catch tuna.What a great time and great place to fish We will be back.

Tuesday, March 23, 2010 @ 11:53:41 AM

Picayune , MS USA

I know this isint a fishing report but I just had a great suprise in my home town. I was driving down HWY 43 and saw a seafood joint and stopped in for a bite. It was Capt. Al Walkers restaurant. The food was great! Me and my wife both counted over 40 huge shrimp per Po Boy. I mean delicious! Great place Capt. Al are you open for the Super Bowl? BTW the photos on the wall are off the wall.You are an animal.

Wednesday, February 3, 2010 @ 4:23:12 PM

Venice, LA USA

Good Night folks.

Wanted to take a moment and publicly congratulate my twin brother Capt. Kevin Beach on his monumental catch last week. I would normally tell him in person on the dock but have not seen him since his greatest catch ever.

I as well as everyone knows you are a top notch guy and no doubt one of the best captains/fishing guides/angler that god has ever blessed mother earth with.

Besides that I think that the readers and fisherman across this great country called America would like to know how you stay so stylish and devonair while mauling such giants and making them pay for simply being a tuna.

The most important question that I would love answered by you sir after all these years is "Who is Your Hair Stylist"?  

You da Man!

Xtreme
504-710-2950

Thursday, December 3, 2009 @ 7:21:23 PM

Knoxville, TN USA

Thank you captain Al Walker for taking care of my mom and dad on thier visit to venice louisiana. I am fourteen years old and recommended you from the readings of this site mainly because i love your videos along with being the biggest fan of Jackass ever.Not only did you make sure thier boat was sea worthy but catching three giant tuna was a great bonus.

Wednesday, December 2, 2009 @ 2:38:09 PM

Venice, LA USA

Good day.

The last minute overnight went great. Great people , great fishing and great weather for the most part.

This was a trip that my buddy Grant was aboard for his birthday and wanted to break the 100 pound mark. I must admit I felt sure we could arrange that on count of the big fish we have been taking lately.

Last three weeks in a row the live bait have been a task to come by for me on night trips and quite frankly it has not scared me one bit. I have other methods I use when this occurs but must admit that running long with no livies has been strange.

The first and only stop was fast and furious as we had six yellows and some black fin before 7:00 pm. Not bad when you consider we arrived at 5:30 pm. and did not have to cut one pogie or cast one popper.

Mission accomplished as my bro Grant got his birthday big boy that everyone on the boat got a shot at.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone.

Xtreme
504-710-2950

Wednesday, November 25, 2009 @ 11:26:53 AM

Venice, LA USA

Just need one more guy for Monday/Tuesday overnight but if you have a buddy we will make room.

I wasn't going to fish at all this week but my promise to a reschedule and the large amount of big fish wont let me sleep on a 1 to 2 foot night.

504-710-2950

Saturday, November 21, 2009 @ 7:13:16 PM

Venice, LA USA

Good Day

It was nice to get out and about this past weekend. The sun was shiny and the seas were smooth. Most importantly the fish were biting.

Friday I had my bro Jake and his dad for a little tuna therapy. Being that both these gentleman served our country in times of war it was time for me to go to war for them.

We like most struggled making bait Friday but as I said there was no quitting as we found ourselves eighty miles offshore with not a single live bait.

As we approached the platform I knew this had to be it. It was! First drop five baits which told me the tuna are here. After a few more "Tuna Crack" we set out the dope and "bam" we got what we were looking for. It was awesome to be a part of this father son duo and especially awesome to see dad put the big one on deck.

The next day I had "Buddy" from Tennessee and his fourteen year old son for a little night fishing. After knowing what I learned the day prior I knew exactly where to go.

I must say after a summer of not so great night fishing this got me in the mood for some serious winter over night trips.

From the second we pulled up until the second we left the tuna were airborne. Crushing our baits were what they had on the menu and my young client will be the talk of his school for sure as he brought in man sized fish.

Wanna fish?

504-710-2950

Tuesday, November 17, 2009 @ 11:17:27 AM

Venice, LA USA

In response to Green Head

Yes my man I am the cameraman on that shoot. I got tons of shark stuff that is un used and wanted to give the readers a look see of some cool encounters. Glad you enjoyed it.

Al

http://www.rodnreeltv.com/Player/tabid/56/VideoId/688/sharks_are_cool_man.aspx

Wednesday, November 11, 2009 @ 8:27:40 PM

Venice, LA USA

Good Evening

I along with my friends and clients had a time to remember on the Lemon fish run this summer and early fall.

We limited out every trip except one and it produced three lemons over fifty.The Tripletail were as thick as i could ever remember in the past twenty five years. It was if there were a school on every rig.

Looking forward to the winter tuna/wahoo run that is if the master minds of the "Fish Police" don't close them down as well.

Join the FRA

Wednesday, October 21, 2009 @ 7:38:18 PM

Venice, LA USA

Good evening

Just put up my first gig on rodnreeltv.com.Check it out.

http://www.rodnreeltv.com/Player/TabId/56/VideoId/683/whaleshark01.aspx

We had an incredible year with Whale Sharks. We logged over ninety hours of video and logged 38 sightings within three months. They are still here thick as we just came across a pod of eleven just before Tuna Mountain last week.

Most instances we encountered Tuna,Dusky and Tiger Sharks with them. It is almost as if they have some type of relations or bond with each other.

On one three day trip the same tuna and shrks stayed with the same whales all the way through our time of diving with them and we were not chuming.

The Whale you see in this clip was so freindly it was almost like having a giant cat underwater with us. It was dificult to focus on the other species because it kept running us over which was a lot of fun.

I get pleny questions about Towersoflife.com and when will my video be available.It is done with contractual agreements already complete but my grace periods on other films I've done are up or almost up and i want to add some additional footage of past experiences.

Sunday, October 18, 2009 @ 6:35:19 PM

Venice, LA USA

Good Evening Fish Heads

To tell the truth i have been having to much fun lately. The fishing and spearfishing have been off the charts with great catches.

The tuna have been in the same area for over a month. I have gotten used to seeing acres of tuna busting on every trip almost.

For some reason i have been lucky enough to have a overwhelming number of tuna virgins visiting our local docks. That is always a blast watching people encounter their first connection to the all mighty yellow fin.

On another note the spearfishing has been great as well. I recently took Chad and Buddy on a three day fishing diving excursion. The first day we dove 16 rigs with my partner and pal Lance. After the days end Lance told me this wasn't a fun trip this was work.

The next couple days we hit again. I was able to put Chad in crystal clear water where he only got more addicted to the oil platforms off our coast.

He was able to spear his first Amberjack as i went deep in search for big grouper that frequent these certain platforms this time of year. After my search i headed to the surface. Around 180 i was approached by a 70 plus AJ so i said why not. He wasn't a trophy but i wanted to shake off some Cobb webs.

I hit him good but not good enough as he whipped me. I finally got him some what under control and then out of the depths three monster grouper came up to my fighting AJ.

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH i was so upset that im now low on air on my last dive of the day and sitting in front of me are three Warsaw around 200, 300, and 400 pounds! I will be back soon to see if i can coax them up to shooting range.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009 @ 7:41:50 PM

Venice, LA USA

What up Capt. Rob

I'm impressed buddy. I'm trying to get out of here and head to Alaska now for a shoot. Will be going to Prince William Sound.

I want to spear one of those GIANT FLOUNDER. I will have my dive gear and will contact you for a charter.

Again brother incredible fish!

Tuesday, September 8, 2009 @ 1:24:44 PM

Venice, LA USA

Good evening.

Been out of town for a while and been lucky enough to get offshore a couple times.

The blue water is definitely in close which makes for nicer trips but the urge to run long is somehow embedded into my genetic pool.

In the last couple days i have fished Elf,Amarante,Nakika,Blind Faith,Thunder Horse,Thunder Hawk,Balder,Devils Tower,Mars,Ursa and a drill Vessel.

Bait has come pretty easy but the weather has been unpredictable with one trip of crappy seas and rain which cut us short.

My partners in crime Prof. Lane and Dr. Lance ran out on wednesday and got clobbered by rain and rough seas as well.

I thank you for the kind e-mails and calls about this years "Shark Week".It is really cool that folks read the credits.

I filmed a segment with Capt. Kevin and Seth of Strikezone charters that i felt was solid but did not make the cut. The producer Jeff Kurr traveled the world on the show "Sharks After Dark" and i agree he had some pretty cool stuff. We dove all night in packs of hungry sharks that he might piece in on a show next year.

I passed my gig onto Mark Rackley(the best shark Filmer in the world) for the Salmon Shark shoot in Alaska due to land development that i thought i would be finished with at this point.

I will try to call him tonight to see what if any pics they got so far that i could share.

I want to give a big thanks to Captain Lee and Captain Donny Ray for helping me with my groups of clients this past week.

These guys are hardcore! Captain Lee fished until 8:00pm on a day trip.You don't get any more dedicated than that. Give the man a call at 504-430-5843. I highly recommend him.

I wasn't planning on fishing any time soon but got a couple guys wanting to go Sunday Monday Night and want two more guys.

504-710-2950

Friday, September 4, 2009 @ 5:58:52 PM

Pearl River County, MS USA

Fished with Captain Al Walker last week. If you ever been with Al good for you. If not go with the man. That is all i have to say besides the coolers were packed and we had a side dish of lobster he brought up from the depths for extras.Looking for your show Captain on August 6 on Discovery Channel. Thanks sir you are the man.

Sincerly Bush Master

Monday, August 3, 2009 @ 4:12:36 PM

Venice, LA USA

Good evening guys and gals hope all is well.

I have a group of guys to fish with me Saturday and Sunday but need two guys. That would round out a five man trip and am looking foward to the trip due to moon and tide being perfect.

I know exactly where they are and want to pounce on them. I will give a discounted trip due to late notice.

Quite honestly i am thinking about a summer special until Sept. 1st so i can get on my feet after my investments that have been slow to turn over due to the economy.

I must say that i have made some great investments but nobody has the money for the land i want to sell.

In this case i want to pass the savings on to the anglers that also might have a little less change in their pockets this summer for fishing.

Please call and we will go have a great time for a great price.

504-710-2950

Thursday, July 16, 2009 @ 8:55:25 PM

Picayune, MS USA

This is my first fishing report ever but felt the need to tell the fisherman of this area of the greatest trip i have ever been on in my 67 years of life.My grandson saw a opening on Mr. Walkers boat for the weekend and filled my ear about this guy.I had no idea who he was but my grand children watch all that stupid stuff on mtv and so on.They told me we should go fishing with this guy because he was famous by diving with sharks for discovery channel which i love to watch.I called captain al to see if we could go fishing with him to shut these boys up.he told me come on down to venice louisiana and he would be waiting at the dock.I expected to fish for some catfish or bull reds but when we got to cove marina he had all those big reels and said he dont fish for that crap.I was not happy to here this because i had my heart set on some fried catfish.I took my brother his son and my neighbor along with his son and my 13 and 16 year grand boys.We took a long ride befor we stopped for live bait which i was ready to call quits because of my neighbors son being sea sick.Captainn walker was not only a gentleman but the hardest fisherman i have ever met in my lifehe took care of all of us with our tangles and baiting of the rods.we caught more fish than i have ever seen in my whole life.The boys were constantly reeling in those tuna fish with everything they had in the gas tank.After a whole day of working in that heat he even cleaned our fish and lended us a giant ice chest because all we had was a 120 quart that filled up with fillets.This guy is a great captain and want to go again soon because that much fun should be illeagal.Thank you captain Al you gave us a trip of a lifetime amd good luck with your restaurant sir.

Thursday, July 16, 2009 @ 1:44:09 PM

Venice, LA USA

Hello gang.

Here are some more pics from last week. I have three guys that want to fish friday,Sat or Sunday.

Wanna jump on board. Give me a call with the day or days you want to go.

I will be heading to a platform that will not be in place until thursday night. I want to be the first to fish it because of the location.

Let's do it baby. 504-710-2950

Wednesday, July 8, 2009 @ 10:50:48 AM

Venice, LA USA

Good evening.

Hope you all had a great fourth of July weekend.

Im coming off a neck and shoulder injury and have got offshore a couple times with some great friends.

I am not 100 percent but feel like hitting the water if anyone is game.

The last couple trips i ran we had to run quite a ways to hit the water i wanted and the fishing was as equally tuff. Both trips were overnights and for some reason the yellow fin would not hit until sunrise.

After speaking to a couple captains at the dock it seemed to be the same for everyone for the past couple weeks.

It can only get better as the river is dropping rapidly and the salt water will soon be pushing up the river mouth.

Here are some pics from some recent shark dives and if you want to read a cool report go to sharkdivermag.com and click on May 9 report.

Have a great night.

Lets go fishing

Sunday, July 5, 2009 @ 7:49:15 PM

Venice, LA USA

I do have some pics to add tonight but have had zero time. It is quite obvious that no one loves me anymore because when i told my so called friends that i was opening a restaurant not one single person kicked me in the nads.

I want to fish bad and if anyone is game i will take a five man crew for a one time price of 1,500 plus fuel on an overnighter this Sat. and Sun.

If not you can find me at the money pit called Capt. Al's Seafood.

504-710-2950

Thursday, June 4, 2009 @ 10:19:57 AM

Venice, LA USA

Hey gang

Been out the loop for a while but have gotten a few trips in and will give a report with pics tomorrow.

On a better note the weather looks great and i have a couple guys wanting to go over night on Friday/ Sat or Sat/ Sun or Sun/Monday.

Any takers give me a ring. I was trying to shark dive for four days straight last weekend but the guys i have are literally from around the world. Australia, Hawaii , Canada and the UK that were blown out last weekend but cant regroup for this one.

We will be going on my buddies Glacier Bay. Call if you want to go.

504-710-2950

Wednesday, May 27, 2009 @ 10:06:48 PM

Venice, LA USA

Getting a break in building my restaurant and want to hit a Thursday/Friday overnighter for some fish to feed to sharks this weekend with Shark Diver Mag. Anyone wanting to have some fun banging up some fish call me.

504-710-2950

Tuesday, May 5, 2009 @ 8:11:18 PM

Venice, LA USA

Hey Bailey

Sorry for the slow response buddy. I have a couple shows lined up and one will be on this years "Shark Week" 2009.

I worked with producer Jeff Kurr again who is responsible for shows such as "Diary of a Shark Man" and Air Jaws to name a couple.

I can not disclose the title of the show unless i want to get sued by Discovery for Breach of contract so when they start advertising i will post brother.

I am scheduled this May for Shark Diver Mag where we will continue our Dusky documentation which i am super hyped for as well.

My most exciting show on the books at this moment is diving and studying Salmon Sharks in Alaska. They are a very unknown shark to science and we will be spending a month with them in Prince William Sound. They are my favorite shark and cant wait to meet them face to face.

Thanks for the inquiry bro.

Monday, April 20, 2009 @ 10:30:08 AM

New Orleans, LA USA

hey Mr. Al i watched your show yesterday with my favorite skateboarder Rob Dyrdek on MTV.He looked really scared of the sharks but it was cool to see him with those sharks.are you going to get him to come to the skate park in venice.I want to know so i can meet him.

Thursday, April 2, 2009 @ 12:42:39 PM

Venice, LA USA

Good evening fish heads

Been a while since my last post been in Houston Roofing and now am ready to crush some fish.

Went on a couple buddy trips with not much to write home about but did manage some Yellow fin,Black fin and hooters on both of them.We had a blast to say the least.

I want to thank those who entered the Tuna Kahuna this year and would have loved to see some one break the Yellow fin record and walk with the New Ford truck from Bill Hood but maybe next year.

I want to thank all the folks that mailed and called with their nice gestures about the first opening of the parks.

The first park was opened in Booth ville last month and is a skate park.The next will open in May which will be a water park.

I was trying to upload one of the articles from one of the local news papers but am having trouble.The Gazette did a wonderful interview with the kids that says it all.

I barely deserve any credit as the Emily Campbell of rebuildplaqumines.org and the local government with the very generous donations are the ones to thank.

Im working on getting some pro skaters to visit the skate park this summer.

good night

Wednesday, April 1, 2009 @ 8:07:24 PM

Venice, LA USA

Good Day Gang!

Wow i don't even know where to start as i have been busier than a bee in a bee hive.

Many mails have come in asking what have i been up to? Well i am in Texas running my crews and enjoying the great culture Texas has to offer along with the fishing.

I have wrote and filmed some gigs out of San Antonio for Travis Pastrama and his popular Nitro Circus.Did you see the New Years event? It was crazy. Check out Travis jumping out of a airplane with no parachute.

Gearing up for my next shoot with Discovery this lump season as well.

I also have been fishing like crazy with Snapper and grouper being the bounty.

The last trip we ran produced 21 grouper. I am setting up my services out of Matagorda and Galveston with boats from 33 to luxury Yachts.Call if you are this way and want some incredible fishing.

I am covering the Stren Series at the moment on Falcon Lake.I AM HOOKED! You would not believe me if i rattled off the weights of the Bass we have been catching the past couple months over here. I am fishing with John Vogt and now is my partner through my sponsors.Here are some of his recent accomplishments...
Recent Highlights:
*Volunteer for Childrens Miracle Network and our wounded soldiers ("Fighting for Freedom").
*1st Place - Texas Bass Federation Nation South Region Championship Lake Amistad - Oct 2008
*3rd Place- Texas Bass Federation Nation West Region Championship Lake Amistad- Oct 2008
*1st Place-  Texas Bass Federation Nation Lake Amistad- January 2008
*2nd place in overall standings in 2008 South Texas Bass Federation
*3rd place in overall standing in 2008 West Texas Bass Federation
*Big bass award- West Texas Bass Federation- Lake Amistad- January 2008
*Big bass award- South Texas Bass Federation- Lake Amistad- February 2008
*3rd Place- South Texas Bass Federation- Canyon Lake - March 2008
*2007 Angler of The Year-  American Bass Anglers Central Texas Division
*1st Place-  Big Spring Bass Championship Lake Amistad- Oct 2007
*1st Place-  Seguin Bass Anglers Statewide Championship- Sept 2007
* 6th Place- Permian Basin State Championship- Sept 2007

We have been smoking them on numerous Lakes for the last two months and now we are in competition as team mates.

I have been hired to film the event and anglers but grab the rod every now and again.John has forbidden me on touching any rods during the event as he calls it "Beginners Luck" and he wants all the glory. LOL.

I have made major leaps and bounds with Towers of Life and our recent report on Platform Removal. Please click and review as we need the sportsman behind us to save our fishing resources. Look at the maps and see for yourself the platforms scheduled for removal.

Tuna Kahuna is in full swing!

We started the fund raiser last year and must admit i never knew how expensive playground equipment was.

We have contracted T. Dell Smith of Plaquemines Parish and we have already broke ground on one of six playgrounds to be built for the kids.  Our original plans were for the anniversary of Katrina last year but due to funding and a couple hurricanes we were set back till now.

Please buy a ticket even if you do not like fishing offshore as all the monies fund this great cause.

Plaquemines Parish is close to my heart and whatever i can do to help i will always try.

Still working with Brad Pitt's "Make it Right Foundation" to get some housing underway for those that are in need.

Thursday, January 15, 2009 @ 2:20:43 PM

Venice, LA USA

If that link doesnt work go to www.ecorigs.com or Towersoflife.com and click on

New! Platform Removal Brief

Thank you

Sunday, December 14, 2008 @ 10:31:23 PM

Venice, LA USA

Go to this link. This is months of work to give the best scientific answer to questions asked of me about numbers of  rig removal. This is information developed of over ten years working with each other on this very important subject to stop cutting down rigs. By leaving them there will benefit mankind along with" Mother Nature"..

Al Walker
http://www.ecorigs.org/Platform%20Removal%20Brief.pdf

Sunday, December 14, 2008 @ 10:06:52 PM

Venice, LA USA

Hello gang

Hope all is well back home as i have been in Houston for almost three months now only flying in to see the family. I have been working out here but not all work and no fun.

We been hitting Matagorda on a regular basis.With many offshore trips under our belt along with some of the best floundering i have ever done.The folks down here are awesome and the Marina told me i was the first boat to head offshore after IKE.There was so much crap floating out there i turned our overnighter into a day trip for safety reasons.

Nothing can beat leaving the camp at 10:00 am and returning at 1:00 pm with limits of snapper and cobia. Further off shore at the floaters have produced small tuna and big Mahi.

Using Hiltons Offshore maps have been the key with landing as many as 16 grouper one day off of the bottom numbers found on Tom's maps.

I have dove this area religiously over the years and know my way around to lay some big boy's on the boat. This is where many records have come from as me and my dive pals over the years have experienced. My biggest AJ 126.12 came less than 100 miles from the Matagorda Pass and im ready to beat as i have had shots on bigger ones but weren't the shot you would want on a big deep fish.

The coolest thing for me is fishing the waters my Paw Paw fished through his younger and older years.

My first dive was like a dream as when returning to the boat a monster Tiger shark came in gentle and playful. The other divers were not so excited by our visitor but i took full advantage of his approach and had a blast riding her.

I will be fishing the lump and Matagorda hard this winter so lets do it baby it really is the best of both worlds as roofing Texas right now is fast and furious and the off days to fish are special.

I will be fishing Venice during Thanksgiving Holidays cant wait to see old friends.My cell got wet and have lost every number i had so all my bros please call so i can re register them.I have tons of photos i will post when i can. 504-710-2950

Over and Out

Thursday, November 20, 2008 @ 9:46:02 PM

Venice, LA USA

Just got a copy of the show i did with Robson Green from the UK today and it came out great.If they only show it in the UK i will ask IWC Media if i can post a copy on RnR but if they sell it to networks in the US as well i am bound by contract not to release any footage of the program.

It came out nice.Robson is like the Tom Cruise of the UK and not much of an outdoorsman so i wrote all scenes to be shot outdoors with the locals from Venice.

The story line was to learn and experience the way of life from a Cajun's point of view.

We went spearfishing,shark diving,tuna fishing,nutria hunting,crabbing during the day with a local and would prepare the catch in the evening.

Robson said that Venice and our shoot in particular was the best of all his globe trotting.

He loved the people,culture and especially the food.

It's a series called Extreme Fishing with Robson Green.

To answer a few e-mails

Yes you can still buy "Surviving Sharks" hosting Less Stroud at Block Buster for 19.95.

Go grab a copy we would appreciate it.

Wednesday, September 10, 2008 @ 7:27:23 PM

Venice, LA USA

Don't know if this report will post with photo having major computer problems.

Just like everyone waiting on Ike i had to cancel the winners of the Tuna Kahuna raffle again do to weather.We were back and forth on what to do as all info i was receiving was not to go down to Venice because of mounting facts of no electricity,bait,ice,fuel and of course Ike.

so the next day around noon Chris Hays from Cleveland MS calls to see if we are going to give it a shot.I said no man to many red flags and everyone is saying stay home. He then said then stop asking everyone and let's go. He was chomping at the bit as this was their only chance this year to go.

I said my boats in MS and there is a ton of traffic bla,bla,bla so we hung up.Something came over me and i said start heading down as i walked to my truck loaded the poles and hooked up the boat and all the time saying "what are you doing dumbo".

Lined up in major traffic going to New Orleans playing only CD's so i would not have to hear anything about the storm. Picked up ice and fuel along the way.

Finally met up with the guys in Belle Chase and headed down. Got to the marina and there was one boat in the parking lot at Venice Marina but saw Bill Butler and they had a generator so i grabbed a bag of pogies and backed her down and loaded her up.

Met the pass at dusk with all kinds of crap floating down river and must say it was a zig zag ride the whole way.

Once leaving the pass started toward my buoy's and they were gone so tried to hit some rigs for bait and managed one hard tail as it was night fall.

Started toward Medusa as she was lit up in all her glory but was amazed to see that was the only platform lit period. Still dodging debris along the way but thanks to Bayou Marine Electronics and Furuno I felt comfortable so i kept going.

On the way crossed an anchored crew boat and the boys were cheering us on the radio and then said that they were the only work boat out there and to their knowledge we were the only others as they were heading in.

I asked him why are all the rigs black and he said there are completely evacuated due to Ike and it cost the industry more to bring them back and evacuate again.

Off to Medusa we went and as i was getting closer i had a grin from ear to ear as i was seeing white water all around the platform. When i finally got there my dream of tearing up the tuna turned into a nightmare as there were hundreds of porpoises guarding the rig.

Usually if i stop at a rig and see five or so porpoise i leave but we had nowhere to go as it was the only rig lit. So i tried some stuff and nothing. When we would throw a popper it was simply comical as they would all surround it as if knowing they were killing our chances of bagging some fish.

I started thinking a bit and thought the only thing we can do is go deep so i started searching for the tuna pod and found them on the down current side and started hooking up one after another only to have the porpoise take them from us.

It turned into serious work so i thought a bit and tied a long rope from a cable hanging down to the and set right over the strike zone turned off the motors and went to work.

It was a blast as we got a pattern down and were getting much more fight out of our fish as they had 500 pound porpoise pulling them back down.The guys were getting a work out as catching a 15 pound black was like hooking a forty or fifty pound yellow.

There was not a single fish out of all 24 that we managed to boat that did not have teeth marks all over there body except the head"those guys are smart".I was literally trying not to accidentally gaff a porpoise on every fish it was crazy and cool at the same time.

It was so relaxing and quiet as the rig was shut down that we were listening to the porpoises communicate by sound and bashing there tails like we were at Sea World or something.

Around three am another Glacier Bay pulled up as i simply pointed to the spot and next thing you know their hooked up the rest of the morning as well. We cheered them on as the sun was rising while fighting a big yellow and when it slap the floor of the deck we all went ballistic.It was awesome.

Time to go so i start heading in and within five miles of Medusa there was one of my bait buoy's floating by with nothing on it but bait.

Hit the dock cleaned the fish hooked up the X-Factor and headed back to MS. What a journey but it was worth it.

That trip was dedicated to all you folks that wanted to be wetting your lines instead of boarding your windows.

Good luck with Ike and good night.

Monday, September 8, 2008 @ 11:38:27 PM

Venice, LA USA

I have been without computer or phone since the hurricane.My last post that did not upload was to offer anyone traveling I 59 to call and i would meet them at the off ramp to drop off a boat if they had in tow to ease the load and gas.

In response to Buddy

Lets see my credentials?

Very simple
1. I want to save the oil rigs
2. i want to help science understand and promote better studies with scientist on any and every specie they might have interest in in our gulf.From Mammals to microorganisms.

Sorry that you are confused but my info is coming directly from MMS not their website. Environmental scientist Steve Kolian stevekolian@hotmail.com {225-910-0304] lives and breaths rules and regs on rig removal since 1988. His site and non profit is directly tied to my Towers of Life and Eco Rigs.com,we built it with Captain Bill Delabar in my office at my other home.He established ECO Rigs years before i met him. Go ahead i want you and anyone to call him if you want to talk real numbers and real science. He would love and invite your call.He also has put the years in studies such as how the Chinese use their platforms for numerous uses with outstanding success.He is the most knowledgeable guy on this subject on the planet.He is my main source.
He works directly with Dr. Paul Sammarco of Lumcon and believe me they do not distort the truth.The information i gave you in those two separate reports are comparable to the snapper regs for example.They change hourly not daily and as usual there is some last minute meeting set up that for sure will not bring major crowds to protest.
My honest attempt to keep you informed of the truth such as deadlines given for your opinion to be received from MMS is so that we literally can fill up the meeting area and spill into the streets with protest. IT NEVER HAPPENS.

Louis Rossignol put up numerous reports begging everyone to attend the snapper meetings and literally one person would show with a abundance of divers.We will never change law that way.Frankly it is not fair in today's technology that we should not be able to give our opinion or vote on these matters from our computers.Then they would see the opposing masses and document some real numbers instead of folks trying to get off of work to drive to Alabama or somewhere that you honestly cant achieve.

I don't understand your shark question? Yes i tag,photograph,video sharks of all species for science and have been for years. Sonar and wax tags and in Whale Shark instances big white numbered tags in the dorsal.
The Whale Shark expedition done with Dr. Jim Franks was monumental and a strong beginning to what it has lead to today.Feel free to contact Jim Franks yourself.I'm not name dropping as all these folks are at your disposal seven days a week.Trey Driggers is a guy that cant stand me but if you as him if im a
{A} chump
{B}put him on his best whale shark study ever
{C} all of the above

My guess he will choose {C}

You can call me a liar all you want but you are the one that sounds like he is just running off words behind your computer that make no sense.

I might have figured this out just moments ago with some help of other captains call ins and this just might be a Al Walker witch hunt{I LOVE THOSE} which leads me to fill the blanks on a issue that is very close to my heart and that was my Tuna Kahuna Rodeo.

If your the Blake "Buddy" Turner i think you are well get ready brother im ready to spill the beans and will fear no lawyers.It will be the truth and nothing but the truth.I will take a lie detection test myself.

You see they had a aka "Buddy" that was on Capt. Jeff Thiery's Boat the Dorado that now works for a guy name Pete with a scrap yard in Houma with a boat called the "Junk Yard Dog".
You see this guy Buddy went on a overnight trip on the Dorado and caught a 234 tuna but did not have a ticket.Weather he had a ticket before or after he caught the fish{he could not make up his mind} he still did not have a ticket.

Well they got a ticket brought to them by another angler offshore.
When i found out i DQ the fish because nobody on the boat captain or crew would sign a sworn affidavit or commit to a lie detector test.This caused me much grief first that one of my best friends Jeff would do this but most of all cost me money and my rodeo to suffer.
Are you that Buddy?Because we still have not heard back from Pete??

If so im going to give a detailed report in the fourm section when i get a chance and anyone saying anything other than my statement is distorting the truth.Susan Gros told me to be the bigger man and walk away but i owe this info to all those that entered the rodeo and to be sure next year if you are the winner"You are the winner"

Have a good day Buddy

Friday, September 5, 2008 @ 8:35:57 AM

Venice, LA USA

Words of wisdom from one of my mentors Myron Fischer that i look up to very much told me years ago not everyone needs to agree on any particular issue on our fishing rights because by disagreeing is how people learn the truth.

I have been to more Gulf Council meetings than i can remember and have boastly disagreed with rules and regs that i did not believe in but i must say i loved disagreeing with Myron because he taught me to do the best research on the subject that i possibly could and you will be surprised how many times you find you were wrong on an issue.The most important part is to have a civil conversation on the matter and there will be equal resolve in the end in most cases.

Myron is showing me the ropes in properly achieving a grant for shark research and put my anger of bogus science behind me and go through the proper process.

Just recently i wrote that certain scientist stated to me that there has been some false Dusky shark taggings and some scientist took it personal as if I was talking about their particular study. I was never given any names but then a post from "The Shark Doctor" bashed me and told me he has saw my mistakes in the science world with his own eyes.

His real name is Trey Driggers from  NOAA that is doing the study on whale sharks and even though Trey and I don't "AGREE" i strongly urge you to help them in their study by reporting any sightings of whale sharks as i will do the same.

As a matter of fact Capt. Sonny Schindler and I took Trey.Dr.Jim Franks and Eric Hoffmeyer on their initial whale shark study. Sonny asked me to come along as a favor.When my man Sonny needs anything I'm there pronto with{pink} bells and whistles literally.

I talked to Dr. Jim who i greatly admire on the phone and set up the whole deal from spotter planes to bringing and rigging all equipment.

In days end their words we were just part of the greatest whale shark study ever!The planes spotted 16 whales and I tagged every one until we ran out of tags.The truth is that Dr. Trey did witness my bad dissensions in the science world and that was that i swam in monster Dusky infested waters with three foot vis from morning to evening tagging those Whale Sharks.I literally risked my life to tag those Whale Sharks and would do it again.

I explained to these guys that these Duskies of this ten foot plus size in the Gulf are rare according to Dr. Jose Castro plus i saw them so often for the past twenty years i was blown away when Dr. Jose told me this. They were in these size populations on the east coast before being over fished.The news traveled like wild fire in the shark science and diving community and i have truly learned the differences between Silky and Dusky from Shark diving guru's such as Doug Perrine,Andy Murch,Dr. Jose Castro,Manny Puig,Dr.Kaz etc.....they are extremely difficult to determine difference.

I had another scientist call me from Mexico to do the same study i just did for Dr. Jim and his boys so i said ok.The next thing i know Trey is calling me and majorly mad that i would do this.My job according to Myron was to always do the most and best research i possibly could so why would i not do another study.

I believe in these studies so much i will offer my services for free to anyone weather you hate my guts or just met me.I admit i'm not perfect and don't know everything but when it comes to "OUR" fishery i get over restless on issues i am certain of.

I cant thank you guys enough for the ides sent about preserving the rigs that i have never thought of.It made my day as i passed your ides along to people that have the power to make better dissensions on matters such as these.

Mr. Pete if i offended you i am sorry as that is one of my bad qualities but also an asset in the right situation.You have the floor and should feel free to express your own ideas about our rig removing crisis.

I simply dont agree with you.

Thursday, September 4, 2008 @ 6:41:02 PM

Venice, LA USA

Words of wisdom from one of my mentors Myron Fischer that i look up to very much told me years ago not everyone needs to agree on any particular issue on our fishing rights because by disagreeing is how people learn the truth.

I have been to more Gulf Council meetings than i can remember and have boastly disagreed with rules and regs that i did not believe in but i must say i loved disagreeing with Myron because he taught me to do the best research on the subject that i possibly could and you will be surprised how many times you find you were wrong on an issue.The most important part is to have a civil conversation on the matter and there will be equal resolve in the end in most cases.

Myron is showing me the ropes in properly achieving a grant for shark research and put my anger of bogus science behind me and go through the proper process.

Just recently i wrote that certain scientist stated to me that there has been some false Dusky shark taggings and some scientist took it personal as if I was talking about their particular study. I was never given any names but then a post from "The Shark Doctor" bashed me and told me he has saw my mistakes in the science world with his own eyes.

His real name is Trey Driggers from  NOAA that is doing the study on whale sharks and even though Trey and I don't "AGREE" i strongly urge you to help them in their study by reporting any sightings of whale sharks as i will do the same.

As a matter of fact Capt. Sonny Schindler and I took Trey.Dr.Jim Franks and Eric Hoffmeyer on their initial whale shark study. Sonny asked me to come along as a favor.When my man Sonny needs anything I'm there pronto with{pink} bells and whistles literally.

I talked to Dr. Jim who i greatly admire on the phone and set up the whole deal from spotter planes to bringing and rigging all equipment.

In days end their words we were just part of the greatest whale shark study ever!The planes spotted 16 whales and I tagged every one until we ran out of tags.The truth is that Dr. Trey did witness my bad dissensions in the science world and that was that i swam in monster Dusky infested waters with three foot vis from morning to evening tagging those Whale Sharks.I literally risked my life to tag those Whale Sharks and would do it again.

I explained to these guys that these Duskies of this ten foot plus size in the Gulf are rare according to Dr. Jose Castro plus i saw them so often for the past twenty years i was blown away when Dr. Jose told me this. They were in these size populations on the east coast before being over fished.The news traveled like wild fire in the shark science and diving community and i have truly learned the differences between Silky and Dusky from Shark diving guru's such as Doug Perrine,Andy Murch,Dr. Jose Castro,Manny Puig,Dr.Kaz etc.....they are extremely difficult to determine difference.

I had another scientist call me from Mexico to do the same study i just did for Dr. Jim and his boys so i said ok.The next thing i know Trey is calling me and majorly mad that i would do this.My job according to Myron was to always do the most and best research i possibly could so why would i not do another study.

I believe in these studies so much i will offer my services for free to anyone weather you hate my guts or just met me.I admit i'm not perfect and don't know everything but when it comes to "OUR" fishery i get over restless on issues i am certain of.

I cant thank you guys enough for the ides sent about preserving the rigs that i have never thought of.It made my day as i passed your ides along to people that have the power to make better dissensions on matters such as these.

Mr. Pete if i offended you i am sorry as that is one of my bad qualities but also an asset in the right situation.You have the floor and should feel free to express your own ideas about our rig removing crisis.

I simply dont agree with you.

Thursday, September 4, 2008 @ 6:38:55 PM

Venice, LA USA

Words of wisdom from one of my mentors Myron Fischer that i look up to very much told me years ago not everyone needs to agree on any particular issue on our fishing rights because by disagreeing is how people learn the truth.

I have been to more Gulf Council meetings than i can remember and have boastly disagreed with rules and regs that i did not believe in but i must say i loved disagreeing with Myron because he taught me to do the best research on the subject that i possibly could and you will be surprised how many times you find you were wrong on an issue.The most important part is to have a civil conversation on the matter and there will be equal resolve in the end in most cases.

Myron is showing me the ropes in properly achieving a grant for shark research and put my anger of bogus science behind me and go through the proper process.

Just recently i wrote that certain scientist stated to me that there has been some false Dusky shark taggings and some scientist took it personal as if I was talking about their particular study. I was never given any names but then a post from "The Shark Doctor" bashed me and told me he has saw my mistakes in the science world with his own eyes.

His real name is Trey Driggers from  NOAA that is doing the study on whale sharks and even though Trey and I don

Thursday, September 4, 2008 @ 6:35:10 PM

Venice, LA USA

In Response to Pete

As always i respect any and all opinions on this matter weather you are for saving rigs or tearing them down but stating that losing thirty percent of life giving structure is no big deal is simply ludacris.Do you want to fish structure or mud bottom?

As far as being an expert on the matter i don't need anyone to state I'm not or i am a expert as i know the countless hours i have docked on Capitol Hill for this matter for over ten years now.I have personally went to every Senator and Congressman's personal office and hand delivered my videos that prove these structures have other uses and BEGGED for them not to be overlooked.

When President Bush was presented the first Mari Culture plan for expired oil platforms it was me and my cutting edge team that did so, i even wrote parts of the program.When Senator Frank Wagner needed me recently for a production video to help get the positive effects of off shore drilling off the coast of his wonderful state of Virginia i was there to show the public that these structures are life giving and well needed job giving to a hurting economy. I want to buy my gas from a American indusrty not from other countries that can care less about the cost of living in the USA.

When I'm called upon to speak before Congress and bring my video's on this matter i am there.When Governor Jindal invites me along with my videos to speak at his hearing's i am there. When Vitter needed me in Washington i was there and lets not forget that the "experts" such as Dr. Love from Cali.,Dr. Paul Sammarco from Lumcon,etc...... are backing my every move.When the Washington Post did a story on this issue recently i was the go to guy and as you said i can go on and on about the numerous conversations,arguements and physical time away from my home and buisness to wake people like yourself up.

I have done all this for ten years from my own pocket and have yet to receive a dime because i'm not looking to become rich just to educate the uneducated such as yourself.

If thirty percent of oil rig dismantling is no big deal tell that to the habitat that have made home there and quite frankly "I LOVE KILLING FISH" so i want more and more of these platforms popping up forever for all man,woman and child to enjoy.
I speak at schools around the US to high schoolers for one reason and one reason only to educate them of something i have had the chance to enjoy and i want them to protect them like they would a specie on the brink of extinction.There faces tell the story so i am confident that the younger generation is getting the pitchure loud and clear.

It's not brain science that  population grows more people fish and we simply need the structure to sustain an important and sound fishery.

Go blow thirty percent of the worlds natural reefs out the water and lets see what type of response you get.Natural reefs do not even compare to the abundance of fish surrounding the structures.We have more marine life off the coast than the entire Great Barrier Reef system.

Cutting down an oil rig is like cutting down a thousand year old Oak to me maybe it's not a big deal to you.

By the way are you the same Pete Chabert that owns "Southern Scrap" in Houma? Are you profiting from destroying the most important fishery on earth????????

Please lets us know Pete.When my deal is signed and completed i am offering to send you a free copy of Towers of Life before any school or library.

Wednesday, September 3, 2008 @ 2:26:10 PM

Venice, LA USA

In Response to Pete

As always i respect any and all opinions on this matter weather you are for saving rigs or tearing them down but stating that losing thirty percent of life giving structure is no big deal is simply ludacris.

As far as being an expert on the matter i don't need anyone to state I'm not or i am a expert as i know the countless hours i have docked on Capitol Hill on this matter for over ten years now.I have personally went to every Senator and Congressman's personal office and hand delivered my videos that prove these structures have other uses.

When President Bush was presented the first Mari culture plan for expired oil platforms it was me and my cutting edge team that did so.When Senator Frank Wagner needed me recently for a production video to help get the positive effects of off shore drilling off the coast of his wonderful state i was there.

When I'm called upon to speak before Congress and bring my video's on this matter i am there.When Governor Jindal invites me along with my videos to speak at his hearings i am there. When Vitter needed me in Washington i was there and lets not forget that the "experts" such as Dr. Love,Dr. Paul Sammarco,etc...... are backing my every move.When the Washington Post did a story on this issue recently i was the go to guy and as you said i can go on and on.

I have done all this for ten years from my own pocket and have yet to receive a dime because i'm not looking to become rich just to educate the uneducated such as yourself.

If thirty percent of the oil rigs dismantling is no big deal tell that to the habitat that have made home there.

It's not brain science that  population grows more people fish and we simply need the structure to sustain an important and sound fishery.

Go blow thirty percent of the worlds natural reefs out the water and lets see what type of response you get.

Cutting down an oil rig is like cutting down a thousand year old Oak to me maybe it's not a big deal to you.

Monday, September 1, 2008 @ 10:24:50 AM

Venice, LA USA

Tried posting this last night

Here's to any last minute evacuates heading up 59 north. If you get to exit 6 Picayune call me at 504-710-2950 and i will let you drop off your boat to lighten your load and save on gas they have been out for two days but i have 200 gallons to help.I will meet you at the off ramp and bring you through the gates as my guest.

You can park your boat  at your own risk in a 24 hour guarded space free from tree clutter down the street from my house. I will keep a eye on it and give you a report after the passing of the storm. It should be perfectly fine as this is where i have my boat as well.  This offer is extended to any sportsman in need as i can not believe the traffic.  Call anytime.

Monday, September 1, 2008 @ 7:36:18 AM

Venice, LA USA

Directions to Submit Comments for Federal Rule Making

Go to http://www.regulations.gov/fdmspublic/component/main?main=AdvancedDocket

What to do in the Search Form:

Go to Agency pull-down menu and choose: Minerals Management Service

also

Type in Docket ID: MMS-2008-OMM-0012

Do nothing else on this page and scroll down to bottom and click Submit. You will go to a page that says

Docket Search Results

Then click on link MMS-2008-OMM-0012

You go to Page that says: Docket Details

On the first line is Proposed Rules and the right side of this page under title Add Comments is a yellow balloon. Click on the yellow balloon and you are taken to a link with the submission form. Fill out and paste in comments provided below.

LETTER BELOW pick and choose what you want but make sure the liability section is in there


Department of the Interior; Minerals Management Service;
Attention: Regulations and Standards Branch (RSB);
381 Elden Street, MS-4024,
Herndon, Virginia 20170-4817

Regulation Identifier Number (RIN) 1010–AD30

Dear Sirs,

It is a pleasure to offer comments on the Proposed Rules for 30 CFR 285, Subpart J, Rights of Use and Easement for Energy and Marine-Related Activities Using Existing OCS Facilities.  I intend to utilize the upcoming regulations to pursue sustainable fisheries and encourage the production of carbon free renewable energy.  

The successful implementation of the new Alternate Use (AU) program will depend on a clearly defined authorization to transfer the primary liability of the retired platforms from the previous oil and gas operator to the Alternate Use, Right of Use and Easement (AU RUE) applicant.  The ability to transfer the primary responsibility for the eventual removal of the platform from the former oil and gas operator to the AU RUE applicant is not present in 30 CFR 285.1018.

The Louisiana Platforms for Mariculture Task Force (2005) concluded that platform removal indemnification for the previous oil and gas owner was the most important issue facing a successful alternate use program. The significance of transferring the liability to the AU RUE applicant is evident in two Congressional Bills previously presented to congress: “The Rigs to Reefs Act” House Resolution (HR) 2654 in 108th Congress and reintroduced as HR 4761 in the 109th Congress.  

The central theme in the two Bills was the authorization to transfer the liability of the platform removal from the oil and gas operator to an Alternate Use applicant. Section 19 of HR 4761, the “Rigs to Reefs Act”, was approved by the U.S. House of Representatives on June 27th of 2006.  

The liability issues are briefly discussed in the Subpart J Overview, which states that Minerals Management Service (MMS) considered three liability options which are summarized below:
Option 1. Joint responsibility for the decommissioning obligations associated with approved alternate use activities.
Option 2. Holder of the AU RUE would assume either primary or joint responsibility for the decommissioning obligations.
Option 3. A regulatory option that divided equitably the responsibilities for decommissioning and necessary financial assurance between the existing lessee and/or operator and the holder of the AU RUE.

Option 2 is the most desirable option for conditions in the Gulf of Mexico, however, MMS chose the third option to be included in the Final Rules and excluded the others (see 30 CFR 285.1018).  Selecting the third option was influenced by AU interests in California who wish to utilize the platforms, while they are producing oil and gas.  The solution is to offer all three liability options discussed above.

Most importantly, the oil and gas operators in the Gulf of Mexico will not cooperate with the AU RUE applicant if there is no way to transfer primary liability.  It is naïve to think that an offshore operator would expose themselves to the liability risks associated with Alternate Use activities. The Louisiana Platform Task Force and the intention of the Rigs to Reefs Act fully comprehended the concerns of the oil and gas industry over this decommissioning issue.

If the authors of the Proposed Rules fail to comprehend the importance of the transfer of primary liability, 2,500 platforms will be lost in the next 10 years. The Gulf of Mexico platforms are generating $324 million every year in economic impact and create 5,560 full-time jobs in the marine sport fishing and diving industries. These structures create exceptional reef habitats and are used extensively by commercial and recreational fisherman. They produce one of the most prolific ecosystems, by area, on the planet. They create complex coral reef ecosystems and provide a home to 10,000 - 30,000 adult fish and millions of invertebrates.

The authors of the Proposed Rules should note that there are 4,000 fixed platforms in the Gulf of Mexico.  Currently, over 1,500 idle platforms are scheduled to be removed in the next three years. The great majority of the remaining structures will be removed in the next 5 – 10 years.  

If the authors of the Proposed Rules fail to comprehend the importance of the transfer of primary liability, 3,000 platforms will be lost in the next 10 years. The solution is to offer all three options discussed in the Overview section of Subpart J and insert language that clearly provides the authority to transfer the decommissioning liability to the AU RUE applicant.

Best Regards,

Saturday, August 30, 2008 @ 9:35:48 AM

Houma, LA USA

Thank you Mr. Walker for your endless efforts to save our fishery. My two daughters Jessicaand Tina care about your cause and want to help. How can we get the document you referred to. Capt Al for president. We love you.

Friday, August 29, 2008 @ 1:36:23 PM

Venice, LA USA

Good day folks

Have had a great weekend with awesome clients and great friends.

Started a overnight trip plan with one of my best bro's Mr. Jesse Bolton that has fished me for many many years now and as always we did what we do by turning my boat into a tuna coffin.

Due to weather we were not able to do the overnight but the tuna payed for it the next day as we were mad at them and tugged some beauties over the gunnel.

The next day was also a over nighter plan and had a window of opportunity but deep down inside i knew we were in for a butt whoopin but we went anyhow.

Aboard the X-Factor I had Dr. Brandt Zimmer along with my gangster boys from the IP Casino Steve Morgan and Johnny G. By the way there is no mafia mobsters at the IP except for these two guys.

This might be my last post ever.

We headed out under ok conditions and hit a couple schoolies but i was not ready to head in as the seas built to 5 to 7 and simply put to much time in travel to get us on some fish.

We then went to a little known fishing hole{not Medusa} and proceeded to fish. It was nice as there were no boats and a stiff 30 plus mile breeze to keep us cool.

The fish started hopping and we started popping them with Frenzy Angry poppers.After a few fifty pounders and the waves keeping our feet and deck clean we had a stroke on a live one and he was a brute.

After about ten minutes he made a screaming run and was about fifty yards from spooling us until he gave back my Frenzy 7/0.

Dr. Brandt then said im scared and wanna go home so that remark made me grab the 60 to 100 pound Super Seekers just sent to me from Joe Phister from top and baited them up.These are the baddest rods on the market!

This is light tackle for what we do out there but wanted to teach him a lesson so i topped it off with a monster mackerel and sent'em back.

Bang we had another beast as the seas were growing and Dr. Brandt was on the rod. I told him if he loses this fish he has a long swim home but i would let his wife know we did all we could to save him and then see what type wine she likes as i console her.{old joke she's hot}

I must say in all my years of watching people pay for this type of agony Dr. Brandt loved pain the most as every wave along with the raging current gave the fish line back every ten minutes or so but he did not let me down.Dr. Brandts last fish with me went 167 and he seemed to be on a bigger meaner yellow this time as only time would tell.

I spent most of the next three hours feeding him and pouring freezing water over his head but he was not complaining so nor were we.It was a great spectator sport as the mobsters would take a nap now and again or eat a little something, talk about the weather....... as poor Brandt was in it for the long haul.

He proved that doctors are tough and those baby hands can actually man up on a big fish even when mother nature was against us all the way

"Doc" you made me proud brother as you are the man and are welcome to fish my boat anytime.Next time hurry it up so we can go home a little earlier.

I was staying home with the boy and Mom this weekend but the weather man gave me the "wanna go"syndrome.

My good buddy Seth Thynes of Sun Entertainment and producer to such greats as Johnny Cash and Patsy Cline wants to go. We want two more guys. Give me a call if your old lady will give you a weekend pass to play with the boys.

504-710-2950

Thursday, August 14, 2008 @ 3:07:00 PM

Venice, LA USA

Good night folks hope your night is well.

In response to Manny Lesser

I have been working with Congress again in efforts to bring light to offshore drilling in the states not only for the Energy Dept. but staying true to the fact that we have other options to expired rigs such as wave/wind energy and how important it is to not only start drilling in other states but leaving standing platforms alone.

As you and your daughter witnessed platforms being dismantled off the coast of Alabama recently but there are way more that you are not aware of being trashed at tax payers expense.

We {the American public} are actually paying the government to wreck two hundred rigs a year off our nations coast. Do the math in ten years 2,000 man made reefs will be gone forever.
With population growing there will be a serious over fishing issue at hand if we don't do something about it. You think the regs are ruff now on fishing limits just wait until we destroy our rigs in this mass number.

I have continued to film important actions such as mating,feeding,nesting,schooling, etc of a variety of species including federally protected species to further educate the scientist of the importance of not blowing the rigs up at our expense and must say with the energy crisis and tree huggers that are anti drilling this is the most response i have received to date on this issue.

I am producing a program for Sen. Frank Wagner at the moment that will be broadcast nation wide packed with information that can not be denied of it's 100 percent factual images and am challenging any opposite views from anyone that wants to dis credit the footage.

So far i have had no negative response from anyone in Congress Democrat or Republican and seem to be joining the two parties on these underwater scenes in a very calming manner.

The program should be completed within the next week and will surely let you know when it airs. Thanks for your question and know that i am fighting this on a daily basis and will until we have the correct positive outcome this matter deserves.

In response to Fish hawk
This years "Shark Week" i worked on the program titled "Surviving Sharks" and have three shows for next year. Two have already been filmed and the third will be shot in Venice this Sept. Thanks for your questions as well.  Good Night

Tuesday, August 5, 2008 @ 9:06:48 PM

Dallas, TX USA

Great show Captain Al. What is going on with towers of life? Trying to save the oil rigs is a job that needs to be done fast. My daughter and i watched them take down two in Alabama this year.

Friday, August 1, 2008 @ 12:42:21 PM

Venice, LA USA

Want to thank you for the kind words in your mails about my "Shark Week" episode "Surviving Sharks" with Les Stroud this year.

I also want to thank Scott Gurney of Gurney Productions for the great credits and opportunity to work with such a great crew. Anyone interested in owning the program can google "Surviving Sharks" or grab one at Blockbusters for 19.95.  

My goal is always to do my best for you so that we can have a better understanding of the world beneath the boat.

Thanks again!

Tuesday, July 29, 2008 @ 10:22:25 PM

PONTOTOC, MS USA

Hello everyone this is Kahuna Kelley
First of all I was very shocked and honored that I won the 1st Annual Tuna Kahuna Rodeo; but really what I was most proud of was beating the men!!especially my husband! All jokes aside, it was the most fun I've ever had. I was on board the Seaspray with Capt Bill. He really is a great capt. I've been out on his charters several times and we always have a great trip,but this one was special because this time all 3 of my kids were with me. They were having a great time. I was watching them while I was puting my line in the water not paying attention when all of a sudden something hit my hook. My line just took off and kept going. Finally it stopped. I started reeling hard then the fish and I was playing tug of war. At one time I thought I was going overboard. I didn't give up. I will tell you I've never rode a bucking bull but it has to be close being hooked up with a 221LB tuna because I only weigh 143lbs. After 45 minutes me and the fish gave out about the same time. The fish gave up but I didn't. I was so proud when I saw it come to the top of the water because I was give out. My childern was beside themselves. The tuna was 67 inches long and 50 inches around. When Capt.Al called and said that I won first place I thought it was a joke because he called my husband and my husband told me and I really thought he was messing with me. Then I spoke with Capt. Al myself and I knew it was for real. I was so excited. I needed some good news because the week before I broke my ankle. The day after Capt. Al called, my husband and I drove to meet him and his lovely family. He's got a real cute little boy. We took a ride on the lake across from their home: it was really nice. Capt.al told me about the problems they had been through and I have to say C apt. Al Walker is a man of honesty and integrity;and I admire that. The money I won was great but the cause was even greater, because me buying a ticket I knew I was contributing to the  rebuilding playgrounds for a lot of children that Katrina destroyed. They have another great contest coming up called fishing to hear please go to the web site fishingtohear.org and buy a $20 ticket. It's for a great cause and you have 2 days left before the drawing so hurry up and get yours before Sunday. I've got mine. Don't forget about the 2nd Tuna Kahuna Rodeo in January; just don't get your hopes up too much because I plan on being there myself and maybe beat the state record!!!!!

Friday, July 25, 2008 @ 1:08:22 PM

Venice, LA USA

I literally have zero time these days as i am leaving for Fourchon now and then to Venice.

I have probably around 200 photo's on hand from diving and fishing trips but no time to post them.

I do want to say that Strike Zone Charters is the bomb! I had a ten person party for four days on their 60 foot Viking on a Discovery Channel shoot and was blown away by the food and professional crew."We Wanted For Nothing" as Capt. Kevin and First Mate Seth made my job easy.

We had BBQ Brisket, Shrimp Etouffee, Jambalaya, Fillet Mignon, red beans and rice ,numerous pastas, homemade spinach dip, hamburgers, Crab dips, seafood salads, chicken salads, meatballs and spaghetti. We had so much food that there were tons left over and then Capt. Garry and his lovely daughter Yvette Bonanno had a main course waiting for us at the dock. It was the best charter i have ever been on!

It also was my most memorable dives of my life. The script was for me to put identification tags in the sharks by marlin stick in the water during the day and see if those same sharks returned at night.

We did this in open water and at  platforms. During the day we attached giant lights to the rig legs and hit the switch at night fall.Scary.

It was awesome to say the least and used many different methods on the sharks to attract and film their behaviors. The study proved that the sharks were way more aggressive at night using their other senses besides sight to seek out prey.

I found myself in a meditation state from 9:00 am until 2:00 am the first day as dozens upon dozens of sharks surrounded myself and Mark Rackley at night while Seth continuously dumped chum inches from my camera. The footage is a first and am proud to be a pioneer in this magnificent study. It will air "Shark Week" 2009.

During the day i also put my first shark in "Tonic Immobilization". This is achieved by grabbing the sharks tail and swiftly turning him over and grabbing the dorsal fin. It is harmless to the shark and i think they actually enjoy it.

My biggest thrill was playing with my largest Dusky to date. She was at least 12 foot and massive like a Tiger but was in no mood to sight see with humans. I believe this particular specie to be one of the most unpredictable and dangerous of all sharks i have encountered but not much is known of them.They used to be in great numbers on the east coast and grew to eight foot averages but have now found a new home here in the Gulf of Mexico.

A couple years back i introduced some scientist to this specie while whale shark tagging and since then there have been armature attempts of logging them as you must have a trained eye to tell the difference between Dusky and Silky and in all my studies i have only met two scientist with this talent but they don't get in the water. That is where i come in as their eyes underwater to be sure the shark tagged is a Dusky not a Silky mainly because this is your tax paying dollar going into the pot and why not be sure if you can.

I spoke to Dr. Jose Castro{the worlds most renowned shark scientist} the other day and he is aware of multiple Silky taggings taking place and giving the Dusky scientist wrong data so we are moving foward on our own grant to assure proper studies.

I have worked with Jose before on other projects with 100 percent succsess so this should be in the bag.

"Shark Week" will be back with me in September and you better beleive we will be with Strike Zone Charters!


Did you buy your Fishing to Hear ticket yet? Just stop what your doing and buy them now at fishingtohear.org

Friday, July 18, 2008 @ 12:59:55 PM

Venice, LA USA

Good night

Hope all is well.

This has been the busiest couple months i can remember in a while with constant work on a variety of projects for Discovery, IWC Media, BBC, Channel 5 of the UK , world famous photographer Doug Perine etc..... and cant wait to share some pics and stories with you but will enjoy the night with the family and post tomorrow.

My biggest joy recently was awarding Mrs Kelly Crew of Pontotoc Mississippi fishing out of Captain Chris Morans Marina in Fourchon aboard Captain Bill Staff's "Sea Spray" the ten grand for being the

"Tuna Kahuna".

After months Blake Turner willingly relinquished his claims to the proceeds and voided his entry by failing multiple request to sign an affidavit stating the allegations against him were false and finally came clean in the end.

I called Mrs. Kelly Crew yesterday after working with Captain Bill Staff for weeks on this matter and let her know the great news.Capt. Bill and his boys get to share a 2,500 purse for their hard work as well. Congradulations boys!

Needless to say she was ecstatic! She and her husband drove four hours to my home where we took a short boat ride on the lake and then did the deal. It felt great and i want to thank all those that participated.

Big Bubba of Bill Hood Ford told me today that he is still ready to give a truck away next year as we are going to up the board with the biggest baddest Ford he has on his lot for Tuna Kahuna 2009.

August will start the playground developments and simply put i am smiling from ear to ear. Will keep you posted!

Cant wait till next year!

I am just looking at the reports for the first time in almost two months and see that Capt. Darryl is asking you to buy tickets for the Fishing to Hear rodeo as they need to move a couple more thousand tickets to meet their goal.

This site has a couple thousand readers a day alone and i would strongly ask that "you" participate in this cause.

Capt. Darryl has been a childhood friend of mine and besides the fact he is a good man this cause goes way beyond his character.

Being a father myself i could not imagine a greater cause than to help a family in need especially when it involves the health and well being of a child.

I have been in and attended numerous rodeos in my life but never one that i cried at.

When his son was able to "HEAR" and thank all those at the Fishing to Hear Rodeo by microphone under that tent that night it moved everyone in a way that was unforgettable!

If you cant be there or dont even like to fish for that matter buy a ticket it has to be one of the greatest things you could ever be a part of in your life time.

go to fishingtohear.org right now and buy a ticket. There are literally only days left to help another child receive this life changing procedure.

Thursday, July 17, 2008 @ 7:43:51 PM