Fishing far from people’s minds as recovery from Hurricane Helene takes priority

Before I make an attempt to even talk about fishing, I wish to express my deepest sympathies to all of the locals on Anna Maria Island and their neighboring coastal areas such as Cortez, Palma Sola, Flamingo Cay, Longboat Key and all the folks that live along the Manatee River as they courageously try to piece their lives back together after unequivocally experiencing the worst weather catastrophe I have ever seen in my lifetime of living in Manatee Country caused by that bitch they call Helene.

It’s truly heartwarming to see such solidarity throughout the community as even when faced with the worst scenarios, people are willing to help their neighbors and lend a hand no matter how difficult the task. 

And to be so hospitable after numerous days filled with loss, displacement and at times, no hope, shows an outstanding level of character that shines through the darkness of even the most tragic situations like a beacon of safety far off on the horizon. 

The phrase “AMI Strong” come to mind as islanders try to keep up morale as the long days pass by one by one in hopes of slowly but surely reaching some kind of normalcy amidst the unrecognizable surroundings called Anna Maria Island. 

And that day will come, possibly not sooner than later, but it will come and when it does we will move on carrying a library of stories in our minds of how Hurricane Helene laid waste to our beautiful little Anna Maria Island.

Until then, stay strong and proud to be in a community where people care about their neighbor.

And as far as fishing, I’m just not finding the words. To be honest, fishing hasn’t been on my mind since the storm and I doubt that most of you have given it much thought either considering the present situation. 

The fish will still be there when we get back to normal and the fish stories will once again come naturally.