The THERAPY-IV Bids a Heartfelt Farewell to Dear Friend and Crew Member Adam Augusto

The THERAPY-IV is sad to announce the passing of our good friend and long-time crew member Adam Augusto (October 20, 1971 – August 22, 2014). For over thirty years, he brightened up our fishing charter, delighting colleagues and clients alike with his characteristic energy, enthusiasm, and compassion.

That is why everyone who had the pleasure to know and meet him referred to him as “Little Adam with a big heart” – because he was always kindhearted in everything he did. In all our years at sea, we never knew anyone who loved fishing as much as Adam did.

Whether it was on the job or in his personal time, he always embraced the nautical life, and did everything possible to help others enjoy it too. Needless to say, Adam will be deeply missed by all those fortunate to have had him in their lives.

That is why it is only fitting that Adam be given one last time to enjoy the ocean he deeply loved: this Saturday, August 30th, at 6:00 p.m., he will be given a burial at sea aboard THERAPY-IV out of Haulover Park. Most of the Haulover charter and drift boat fleet will be attending, with boats available for anyone wishing to join. Please wear brightly colored attire.

How Storms Affect Fishing

With little less than a month left until the fall season, weather patterns begin to change more frequently and with greater intensity. To the surprise of no Miami native, an angler can often start a day on the water under blue skies, only to find himself facing down a wall of ominous thunderheads in the afternoon.

Interestingly, the weather affects the success of a fishing trip, and many experienced fishermen know when exactly to go fishing on a rainy day. To successfully fish a storm front, you have to understand what is taking place in the atmosphere.

The Good Times: As a storm system approaches, a low-pressure warm front rides up over the top of a high-pressure cold front, causing condensation to take place in the form of clouds. During the time the skies are clouding up, and right on through to the end of the storm, there is a slow and steady drop in barometric pressure that increases as the main body of the system approaches.

Once the main body of the storm hits and moves through the area, rain, winds and sometimes thunder and lightning form along the frontal line. The pressure continues to drop until it bottoms out as the storm runs its course. The fishing should be good this entire time, although lightning and heavy rains on the water's surface might spook fish.

The Bad Times: As the inclement weather moves out, the cold front–a mass of heavier, denser, high-pressure air–begins to rush in behind the low-pressure system. The result is usually windy weather with clearing skies, dropping temperatures and a very sharp rise in barometric pressure.

Large storms will bring in stronger, more powerful and sustained winds, along with a much steeper, higher rise in barometric pressure than smaller storm systems will. It's this clear, windy weather following rainy low-pressure systems that anglers–especially those participating in big-money bass tournaments–dread, because it usually brings the fishing action to a standstill.

For anglers who have studied the activity of fish during rainy weather, they have noticed that the best catch is had during dropping or low barometric pressure. That said, the very best time to be on the water is during the drop in barometric pressure that occurs as a low-pressure system approaches.

For more information on embarking on your very own Miami Beach Deep Sea Fishing adventure, contact THERAPY-IV by calling 305-945-1578.

Captain Stan Supports John P. Contini for Broward County Circuit Judge!

As a proud South Florida resident, Captain Stan is as passionate about his civic duty as he is Miami Deep Sea Fishing. That is why is backing John P. Contini as the ideal man for the job of Broward County Circuit Judge.

John is widely respected by friends and colleagues, well-known in all circles for his strong work ethic, professional and personal integrity, and genuine enthusiasm for law. A former state and federal prosecutor, the accomplished criminal defense attorney has an extensive 30-year background in law, including service in the Broward State Attorney's and the U.S. Department of Justice's anti-obscenity task force.

Compassionate both on and off the job, John considers his work as a criminal defense lawyer to be rewarding and privileged, seeing it as a way to help clients receive second chances. He has successfully represented thousands of criminal defendants in Florida and across the United States, developing positive working relationships with clients, prosecutors, and judges alike – the sort of genuine affability and pragmatism that are vital in the position of judge.

In addition to bringing professional courtesy and integrity to the judicial system, John has made it explicitly clear that he plans to imbue the office with “respect, civility, and humility” and will work actively to encourage legal combatants to reach a resolution instead of going to trial. That’s the sort of dedication and fair-mindedness that Broward County needs in a circuit judge.

The Miami Herald agrees, strongly recommending John for the position as well. Captain Stan unequivocally puts his faith in John Contini for this vital legal position.

To learn more about the THERAPY-IV Miami Beach Deep Sea Fishing Charter Boat, call 305-945-1578 or email  info@therapy4.com

A Tribute to Robin Williams- Truly an American Hero

 Today we at THERAPY-IV would like to remember and honor one of the kindest and most-talented people in showbiz: Robin Williams. Across the nation, and even the globe, people everywhere are mourning the tragic loss of the beloved actor and comedian who continuously brought smiles and laughs, on and off camera.

Some might wonder why exactly Robin Williams was so beloved by everyone; it wasn’t that he was just a comedic genius (often titled the “Funniest Man in the World”) or talented actor/producer/screenwriter. He had a spark and zest that shined through every performance. He was open and genuine, sometimes incorporating his addictions and depression into his stand-up. Most of all, he was kind- celebrities and talk show hosts have since been posting their heart-warming tributes and opening up about their personal experiences with the legend and how he changed their lives through his acts of kindness (big and small). 

Starting as a stand-up comedian in San Franciso and Los Angeles, he soon rose to fame as Mork in the TV series Mork & Mindy (1978-82), then went on to establish a successful career in both stand-up comedy and feature film acting. If you haven't seen any of his films, be sure to have a Robin Williams movie marathon; you will not be disappointed. Williams was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actor three times and won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in Good Will Hunting. He also received two Emmy Awards, four Golden Globe Awards, two Screen Actors Guild Awards, and five Grammy Awards.

Suffering from a long-standing battle with addiction and depression, Robin Williams decided to end his life August 11th, 2014 at the age of 63. If you struggle with these very real demons, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number: 1-800-273-8255. The call is free, confidential, and will be answered by a trained counselor at a local crisis center.    

Can’t Get Enough Fishing? Try These Fishing Apps!

If you have a smartphone, you know it can now be transformed into a variety of incredible tools to complement or enhance any experience. This includes fishing apps to be utilized by savvy anglers. Whether you are looking for fishing resource apps or games, utilizing the new fishing apps can give you an added advantage next time you head out to sea, or stay in!

Fishing Times Pro
Description: This fishing forecast App uses several factors such as tides, sun phase, moon phase, time of year and location to help anglers determine the best time to fish in their area.

Deep Sea Angler
Description: This super smart fishing App utilizes hundreds of factors to determine the best times, bait, and tackle for specific situations. The App turns your iPhone into an incredible fishing resource in salt and fresh water

Animated Fishing Knots
Description: This brilliant fishing app for the iPhone uses animation to show you over 50 knots that are commonly used by fishermen around the world.

iFishing Saltwater Edition
Description: This is a super fun fishing game that allows you target big game species around the world. Catch marlin, tuna, wahoo, and more exotic species. This is the App to have when you can’t make it out yourself!

Bass Fishing 3D On The Boat
Description: This bass fishing game is addictive! Build up your tackle arsenal and hone your skills in search of monster black bass in this fishing simulator app for the iPhone.

iSolunar Hunting And Fishing Times
Description: This is one of the best fishing apps for iPhone when it comes to predicting active fish feeding times and optimal conditions based on the movements and phases of the sun and moon.

For more information on Miami Beach Deep Sea Fishing, contact THERAPY-IV by calling 305-945-1578.

Eye on the Weather- How To Prepare Your Boat for a Hurricane

If you live in Miami, you'll likely have already about Tropical Storm Bertha currently on a trajectory towards the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. While it seems Bertha won't make landfall in South Florida, this has got us thinking about safety in case of one heading our way. As sailors, there’s nothing we can do to change the outcome of these predictions. But we can be prepared. Here are some tips on preparing your boat for a hurricane:

For Smaller, Lightweight Boats
• Determine what you need to do to load and haul your boat to a safer area.
• Be sure your tow vehicle is capable of properly moving the boat.
• Check the condition of your trailer tires, bearings and axle. Too often a flat tire, frozen bearings or broken axle prevent an owner from moving a boat.
• Once at a safe place, lash your boat to the trailer and place blocks between the frame members and the axle inside each wheel. Owners of lightweight boats may wish to consider letting out about half the air in the tires, then filling the boat one-third full of water to help hold it down. Consult with the manufacturer for the best procedure for securing your lightweight boat.

For Boats in Dry Storage
• Determine the safest obtainable haven for your boat and make arrangements to move your boat there. When selecting a safe location, be sure to consider whether storm surge could rise into that area.
• Wherever you choose to locate your boat for the duration of the storm, lash the boat to its cradle with heavy lines. Based on the weight of the boat, consider adding water to the bilge to help hold it down.
• Never leave a boat in davits or on a hydro-lift.

For Boats Remaining in Marina Berth
• Double all lines. Rig crossing spring lines fore and aft and attach high on pilings to allow for tidal rise or surge. Make sure lines will not slip off pilings. Inspect pilings and choose those that seem the strongest and tallest and are property installed. All storm lines should be at least one size larger than regular lines.
• Cover all lines at rough points to prevent chafing. Wrap with tape, rags or rubber hose, etc. Install fenders to protect the boat from rubbing against the pier, pilings and other boats.
• Assess the attachment of primary cleats, winches and chocks. These should have substantial back plates and adequately sized stainless steel bolts.
• Batteries should be fully charged and checked to ensure their capability to run automatic bilge pumps for the duration of the storm. Consider backup batteries. Turn off all other devices that use electricity.
• Do not stay aboard your boat!

For more information on Miami Beach Deep Sea Fishing, contact the THERAPY-IV by calling 305-945-1578.