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Patrick D. Murray
Blog

Stories from the Coast

Essays, reflections, and field notes on coastal fishing, conservation, and the angling life.

These posts are the long-form side of the journal — the stories behind the photos, the lessons a tide line teaches, and the conservation issues shaping the water we fish. Some are personal, some are reported, all are written from the bank, the boat, or the wading flats.

Start with the most recent post below.

Showing 61 of 72 articles

Freshwater InsightsBlog
1 min read

Freshwater Insights

Bass angles do not get enough credit for their pioneering impact on the inshore marine angling space. As dramatically different as freshwater ponds, lakes and rivers are to coastal bays and…

The Rise of the Phone PhotographerBlog
1 min read

The Rise of the Phone Photographer

In an era when virtually all anglers now carry a sophisticated often-waterproof phone/camera in their pocket at all times, outdoor photography has taken a great leap forward both in volume and…

GO FISH (Part 2)Blog
1 min read

GO FISH (Part 2)

Through the years, I have written articles, blogs and even book chapters about the importance of making yourself actually go fishing as opposed to just wanting to go.

Fishing A MemoryBlog
1 min read

Fishing A Memory

The expression 'Fishing a memory' sounds like some endearing, poetic reflection on a beautiful fishing memory. For me, it's not.

Beachfront RedsBlog
1 min read

Beachfront Reds

Beachfront redfish are just so darn burly!! I love how small they can make a topwater look.

The Power of the SUPBlog
1 min read

The Power of the SUP

Far From Its Surfer Origins, The SUP Is Making A Mark On Modern Angling If the early designers of stand-up paddle boards saw what those surfboard adaptions are currently being used for in the angling…

Bag LadyBlog
1 min read

Bag Lady

I grew up with a mom who had giant purses. I mean giant. I gradually developed a general feeling of both amusement and deep disgust for these tote-like appendages.

Whatever We Put Our Attention On Will Grow Stronger In Our LifeBlog
1 min read

Whatever We Put Our Attention On Will Grow Stronger In Our Life

"Whatever we put our attention on will grow stronger in our life." – Maharishi Mahesh Yogi

Summer KingsBlog
1 min read

Summer Kings

Tips for your next bluewater excursion. Like many Gulf of Mexico anglers, some of my earliest blue water memories are pursuing kingfish.

AbideBlog
1 min read

Abide

I am an unabashed fan of all things AFTCO. I love their innovative gear, amazing team of employees and pro staff, and their unique conservation ethic.

Priceless QuoteBlog
1 min read

Priceless Quote

A priceless quote from @elarroyo_atx — the iconic Austin restaurant whose roadside marquee delivers some of the best one-liners on the internet, and undeniably sage words to live by.

Find More Than The FishBlog
1 min read

Find More Than The Fish

Brilliant graphic designer and artist Heather Peterek came up with this powerful line. 'Find More Than The Fish' captures so much of the beauty and value embedded in the art of fishing.