Spock and Schafer on Lindy Rigging

The South Chapter CWA team of Steve Spock and Bob Schafer were guest speakers at the January 2007 chapter meeting. For the second time in two years Steve and Bob just missed the NTC cutoff by placing 14th overall. Despite what they feel was a disappointing finish, this Pueblo West based team is undoubtedly one of the better live bait teams in the state. Lindy rigging is their preferred and best producing fishing method.

Bob is usually the one riding in the back of the Ranger 620VS and is easy to spot as he usually fishes with rods that are about as long as the Ranger. Actually they are about 9 feet long but can almost be tied in a knot. He likes the “buggy whip” tips because he can see the bite before the fish ever feels the rod. The extra length also allows him to drop the rod tip back and give the fish more time to eat.

Steve usually is controlling the boat, rightfully so, he owns it. The boat has been trained well though, Rick Gardner used to fish out of it. Steve and Bob use a heavier strength braided line as their main line. Six foot mono leaders and generally size 2 red hooks. They say the average speed for proper Lindy rigging is around .6 mph. This duo uses leeches in darker water and crawlers in clearer water. Typical target depth is around 15-22 feet.

Over the last few years I have watched this team on the water and one thing I see in them that I don’t see in a lot of teams is…well...teamwork. On the water it is tough to tell who the alpha fisherman is. Both are adept and interchangeable in doing anything necessary to control the boat and catch fish. Their synchronized, non-verbal communication and movement about the boat is more indicative of ball-room dancing (sorry Steve/Bob) than competitive tournament fishing.

Keep your eyes on this team in 2007 and beyond. Always ready to share a beverage and a fishing tip yet ready to set the hook and cash a check. Good luck in 2007 and thanks for being our South Chapter January guest speakers.