Capt. Mark East’s Advice to the Careworn, Confused, Lovelorn and Other Outdoor People

Dear Captain East,
Within a few years, if our economy doesn’t tank again, my husband and I think we maybe will have enough put aside to retire. We’ll both be in our early 70’s. My husband, who’s a keen fisherman (I also like to fish) thinks we should seriously consider going to Belize because our dollars would go further and the fishing is great. Can you give us an opinion? I’m also concerned about medical help.
Signed, Ex-USA Explorer

Dear Ex-USA Explorer,
I hate to say this, but I think you and your husband are on the right track. You’ll find that Belize, as well as a number of other locations throughout the world, is attracting a number of American ex-pats. Your dollars, not like trips to the supermarkets here, will buy more. Because the weather is balmy year round, heating and cooling is minimal and the fishing is world class. I can’t personally vouch for the medical situation, but I’ve never heard any complaints like I’m hearing with the situation in this country.

Cap’n East,
I’ve been hearing a lot of talk about fishing for big Snook in the Everglades. Some of the stories I’ve heard not only get my casting arm to tingling but I’m also hearing that a few of the outfitters take overnight or longer camping trips into the back country. Is this really safe? And, are there really people who do this?
Signed, Nervous About Snakes

Dear Nervous About Snakes,
If you are looking for one of those adventures of a lifetime that’s easy to reach and not miles from humanity, this could be it. There aren’t a lot of guides doing the overnight trips for just the reason you mentioned. However, this fear is pretty much unfounded. Yes, there’s concern when one leaves the supposed safety of town, but these guides know their way around and besides virtually all your fishing is from a flats boat with the guide. And, there’s some astounding fishing in that back country with “Big” Snook, junior size Tarpon, and hefty Redfish. Imagine camping on a sandy spit with the Southern sun exploding over your tent in the morning. Just bring plenty of bug spray for those nightly campfires.