http://www.artwoo.com Returned search results for great white sharks Copyright 2008 Mon, 01 Dec 2008 10:58:34 +0000 http://www.artwoo.com/rss/great+white+sharks http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-great-white-shark-carcharodon-carcharias-is-it-nearing-extinction http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-great-white-shark-carcharodon-carcharias-is-it-nearing-extinction#comments Tue, 08 Jul 2008 11:50:21 +0000 http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-great-white-shark-carcharodon-carcharias-is-it-nearing-extinction "They come up with the energy of an express train and they hurl themselves right out of the water".

It's late in the afternoon. The water is dark and an especially large amount of plankton reduces the underwater visibility to a minimum. Some time ago it occurred to me that with such poor underwater visibility I could probably forget about the object of my visit, to take underwater photos of the Great White Shark.

Like many previous occasions, I am sitting at the boat's stern between the two 80 HP outboard engines, the camera levelled. Through the viewfinder I am watching the neoprene seal-dummy which our little boat is pulling behind it on a fishing line. I support my arms on my knees, to ease my tense muscles. In the past I have often had to remain in this position from the early afternoon until sunset, through heavy swell, rain and storms, just to take the picture of my dreams - a breaching white shark, leaping for prey. Until now, all my efforts have been in vain.

Dyer Island is located six nautical miles off the coast of Gansbaai (170 kilometres south-east of Cape Town), on the opposite side of which is the small island known as Geyser Rock which is home to an estimated 60,000 South African Fur Seals (Arctocephalus pusillus). As long as the seals stay ashore, they are safe. But when they leave for the open sea to catch fish, they have to negotiate a dangerous shark-infested channel between the islands called "shark alley" which, not surprisingly, is reputed to the best place in the world to watch white sharks.

The sharks patrol mercilessly here, and there is no way to escape them. The seals run the same gauntlet when they return to the island, and those swimming alone, and very young seals swimming close to the surface, face the greatest threat.

This is the scenario we have attempted to reconstruct in this case, with the hope of luring a white shark to reveal itself to the camera. For hours I have been keeping my lens pointing at Koekie, the artificial neoprene seal bobbing along behind the boat. Suddenly, a huge and very heavy body is rocketing out of the water like a torpedo. It has "Koekie" in its mouth. Everything happens in a split second.

It's a precise attack with a fatally perfect timing.

Every single square centimetre of this exquisite creature is vibrating energy. An unforgettable sight. The incredible dynamic of the leap is captured in the picture.

The great white shark (Carcharodon carcharias) has been around for at least 3.5 million years, but now it is acutely threatened by extinction. It remains to be seen whether the species is already "genetically extinct" - in other words there are so few individuals left that the survivors are genetically very similar to one another and are less likely to be able to withstand other insults that nature can throw at them. The number of sharks, of all kinds, caught every year is estimated at 100 million. Half of it is 'bycatch', which is thrown away. With this overfishing the shark population is irreparably damaged. Due to the decimation in their numbers, which has lasted for decades, and their low reproduction rate, the prospects for the great white shark do not look good.

I'd like to focus my efforts on helping the sharks because they are really under threat now. The increase in wealth of the Chinese people is of course great for them but conversely it's not good news for the sharks because shark's fin soup is a Chinese delicacy that is becoming more affordable as those people become richer. So there is a thriving and growing export trade of shark's fins to the Far East. The worst thing is that the sharks are caught, their fins removed and they are thrown back into the sea alive to only die a terrible death. No animal should be subjected to that. So through my work I'm trying to draw attention to this to stop it. Otherwise in in few years some species could be extinct.Klaus Jost is a nature and underwater photographer. You can see Klaus's photos and learn more about his work at his website http://www.jostimages.com . You can see pictures of the Great White Shark here: http://www.jostimages.com/galerie/sharks/breaching-great-white-shark.html]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/shark-fishing-in-maine http://www.artwoo.com/article/shark-fishing-in-maine#comments Thu, 25 Jan 2007 02:27:06 +0000 mako sharkblue sharkcoast of maineshark speciesshark fishingporbeagle sharksblue sharks http://www.artwoo.com/article/shark-fishing-in-maine coast of Maine have a lot to offer.

There are a number of shark species present in Maine, with the most popular undoubtedly the blue shark. With their distinctive dark blue top, light blue sides and white underbelly, the blue shark is found in relative abundance off the coast of Maine. The majority of this species are around 6 to 8 feet in length, weighing in at anywhere between 50 and 200 pounds. Larger blue sharks are found occasionally, with some growing up to 12 feet in length and hitting the 400 pound mark.

Porbeagle sharks are less common, and can be recognized by their dark blue-grey top and white underbelly. They also have two caudal keels on their crescent-shaped tail fin, distinguishing them from mako and white sharks. Porbeagle sharks are known as strong swimmers, making them more of a challenge than the smaller blue shark. Many of these species reach 10 feet in length and weigh in at an impressive 450 pounds.

Another of Maine's highly prized shark species is the mako. With a distinctive cobalt-blue top, white underbelly and streamlined body, the mako shark is known as a strong swimmer with a ferocious fighting ability. They are also one of the largest species found off the coast of Maine, with many shortfin makos reaching 12 feet in length and tipping the scales at over a thousand pounds. Threshers are also found off the coast of Maine, and are again considered an excellent catch with many weighing in at over 350 pounds.

The most popular time for shark fishing in Maine is between July and October, though many guides and seasoned veterans consider August to October as being the best period for big sharks. In terms of equipment, harnessed rods with 30 reels are favored by many experienced shark anglers. Occasionally a 50 reel may be necessary should a large porbeagle or mako bite.

Chumming is the preferred method for attracting sharks, with popular mixtures including ground up mackerel, herring, menhaden and other small baitfish. Creating a chum slick behind your boat using a perforated bucket or similar contraption is the most common method and is known to work well. Some boats also have a bait box with a tap open to the water behind the boat from which chum can be dispensed. Though it may take up to an hour or two for sharks to locate your trail, once they find the scent they more often than not follow it all the way to the source.

Shark fishing is possible in many regions off the coast of Maine, though many organized trips focus on areas around 10-15 miles offshore in the Gulf of Maine. Here there is a relative abundance of blue shark, with the occasional mako, porbeagle or thresher to make things more challenging for the adventurous or experienced shark angler. Ronald Moody has been an avid fisherman for 40 years. He enjoys all types of fishing, but especially likes salt-water fishing; he has been all over the country practicing his hobby. He is the owner and operator of http://www.fishingzoo.com, a website dedicated to inform fisherman about Maine fishing, fishing locations, and fish supply products. Visitors are welcome to copy and paste this article on their website as long as the following information is sourced: Maine Fishing by Ronald Moody ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-avoid-loan-sharks http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-avoid-loan-sharks#comments Tue, 12 Dec 2006 02:27:16 +0000 loan sharkstargetloan sharkpredatory loanshigh interest ratespeople with bad creditpoor credit history http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-to-avoid-loan-sharks loan shark. Although many people think loan sharks are a fantasy from Hollywood movies, there are many lenders out there that will rip you off and act as a loan shark. If you want to get yourself a loan but are not sure how to avoid these bad lenders, then here is some advice on how to avoid loan sharks

What is a loan shark?

In essence, a loan shark is a lender who targets people with bad credit and difficult financial circumstances and offers them loans are extremely high rates. By preying on people who think they cannot get a loan elsewhere, the lender makes large sums of money through the high interest rates. Contracts are usually very unfair and there are harsh penalties if the borrower defaults or misses payment. These so called loan sharks use a variety of techniques to make money off people unfairly.

Large loan fees

Loan sharks often charge large fees in addition to the interest, which are added to the total cost of the loan. The borrower is often not told in detail about these charges, and may not notice that they are paying a lot more money for no reason at all. These fees on predatory loans can be as much as 5% of the total loan amount. Another type of fee often charged is for early payment on the loan. A lot of good loans do not carry these penalties, but loan sharks can charge up to 6 months' interest for early repayment.

High interest rates

The loan sharks target people who find it hard to get loans, and so for the 'convenience' of allowing them a loan they charge huge interest rates. These rates could be 3 or 4 times more than you might normally pay, and even if you have bad credit there is no need to pay this much. If you look around then you will see that there are competitively priced loans even for people with a poor credit history.

Letting you borrow too much

Loan sharks are not really bothered about your ability to pay a loan back, because they usually make contracts unfair and require security so that if you do not pay back, you will lose your home. That is why these lenders will let you borrow more than you can really afford. They are making so much from the fees and interest that if you default and they repossess your property they will still make money.

Avoiding loan sharks

These loan sharks target people who think they cannot get a loan another way. However, even people with poor credit can get a legitimate loan with decent rates and no hidden charges. To avoid being the victim of a loan shark, only use reputable companies when getting a loan, and always check the contract you are signing in detail. If you are unsure about a loan or lending company, then contact an independent financial advisor. If you shop around and remain aware of the dangers, you won't become another victim of loan sharks and their predatory loans. Peter Kenny is a writer for The Thrifty Scot, please visit us at http://www.loanwize.co.uk and http://www.thriftyscot.co.uk/Loans/ ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/find-the-hospitality-and-magic-of-africas-waters http://www.artwoo.com/article/find-the-hospitality-and-magic-of-africas-waters#comments Sat, 22 Sep 2007 19:19:59 +0000 quality scuba divingdangerous sharkswhite sharksprotea bankscoral reefsreefsouth africa http://www.artwoo.com/article/find-the-hospitality-and-magic-of-africas-waters South Africa is one of the most visited places when it comes to quality scuba diving. The location is beautiful and you will surely feel like you are home because of local people's hospitality.

The temperatures the water has vary so you can choose to dive in any kind of water you like. For example, in the Cape Province you can find cold waters, while in Mozambique the water is much warmer. In another area from Africa's waters, KwaZulu Natal, you can find exciting wrecks, turtles, beautiful reefs" rel="tag">coral reefs and dangerous sharks. In what concerns sharks, in the Cape Province you can get to see white sharks.

Another great thing that you must see when you do scuba diving in Africa is represented by Rocky Bay, an amazing group of reefs. Anyhow, you should take care with that location as it is meant for experienced divers. Finger Reef, Butchers Reef and Cowry Reef are places where you can easily find strange species of creatures, in different colors and sizes, including lots of species of coral.

At about 8 kilometers offshore you can find Protea Banks, which is also a place meant for advanced divers. There you can find a huge variety of sharks, including Tiger, Ragged Tooth or the Mako shark, depending on how deep you want to swim. Protea Banks is surely known for this wide variety of sharks that you can find when scuba diving there. You will get there in a semi rigid boat leaded by local people that are very familiar with that location. The visibility is very good, you can see even at 40 meters away in some cases and the water in never colder than 24C during summer. Anyhow, as mentioned above, it is not recommended for you to practice scuba diving there if you are not experienced enough.

Another great location in the waters of Africa is Sodwana, which can be found near Mozambique. Here, you will also benefit from a warm climate and, as a diver, you will benefit from a wonderful view underwater. Scientists identified over 1200 species in these waters. The species you will discover when scuba diving in these locations vary between different times of the year, depending on their existence cycle.

There are many other places that can be taken into consideration if you are a professional or even amateur scuba diver. You should not only read this information but also go and visit these beautiful locations as you will definitely be amazed of the underwater magic you will find there. http://www.scubish.com has information about more than 600 dive shops in Africa and many more around the world. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/shark-diving-in-bahamas http://www.artwoo.com/article/shark-diving-in-bahamas#comments Sat, 03 Feb 2007 08:27:09 +0000 scuba diversscuba divingsea scubashark rodeosharksshark diveshark watching http://www.artwoo.com/article/shark-diving-in-bahamas scuba diving attractions in Little Bahama Bank of the Caribbean Sea, scuba diving with sharks is one of the favorite underwater activities for scuba divers there.

Bahamas' Bull Pit Shark Dive

This is a classic shark diving destination and having been scuba dived so frequently for many years. It is because of this factor that the sharks there can now associate the sound of boat engines with food. Hey, it is always lunch time whenever boats are approaching.

These awesome sea predators will move very quickly into the area once they sense that the dive boats are coming. Since this strange and unnatural shark behavior that is being cultivated by human activities is not a natural characteristic of sharks hunting for food has been criticized by marine conservationists.

The Bull Pit is made up of a series of low lying reefs and canyons that create a maze of interesting channels and gullies for scuba divers to explore. One favorite method of shark watching by scuba divers is to wait in one of these gullies and wait for the sharks to come near. The sharks of course are aware that the scuba divers are around and will sometimes swim up close to inspect the intruders and to check for food handouts.

Although The Bull Pit dive site is considered a safe diving location, inexperienced divers may be frightened to find themselves in such close proximity with these fierce meat eating predators. All novice and inexperienced scuba divers should therefore dive under the close supervision of experienced divers so that they would not panic and do things that may attract the sharks to think of them as food.

Bahamas Shark Rodeo

This famous shark rodeo in Little Bahama Bank is a flat patch of sand the size of a football field at Walker's Cay. Dive boats will usually circle the site first, gunning the boat's engines to attract the sharks.

Upon entering the water, scuba divers will settle on the sandy seabed in sight of a 'chumsicle' which is a large frozen mass of fish contained in a porous cylinder. The good thing about this shark feeding system is that it avoids pieces of fish remains floating near watching scuba divers so as to prevent shark attacking scuba divers by accident.

The feeding sharks, often more than a hundred of them from several shark species will suddenly zoom in to the chumsicle in a feeding frenzy. This is when the show begins. Divers are warned to keep very still when some of the sharks may glide over to check out who is eyeing their meals or worse, eating the scuba divers as their meal.

So if you plan for a scuba diving trip to the Bahamas, do dive with the sharks. Chris Chew has been scuba diving for almost 3 decades. Check out his blogs http://scuba-diving-destinations.blogspot.com and http://asiatravelbest.blogspot.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/adventures-in-fishing-for-sharks http://www.artwoo.com/article/adventures-in-fishing-for-sharks#comments Wed, 12 Sep 2007 02:35:01 +0000 shark fishingsharksaware that theyfellow fishermanfaint heartedballoonfishing trip http://www.artwoo.com/article/adventures-in-fishing-for-sharks sharks is an extreme form of fishing and is not for the faint hearted. As this can be a dangerous sport, it is very important that you know a few things about it before going out to sea and hunting these magnificent creatures.

The first thing to do when embarking on a shark fishing trip is to make sure you start off with all the gear you need on hand. Remember your straps or you may end up overboard with the sharks and become fresh bait! The equipment you use needs to be able to withstand a three hundred pound fish or larger =96 you never know the size of the shark you might encounter.

If you know the specific type of shark you are looking to catch then you can more easily determine where to set your trap. First, attach your bait using a flat clip to the bow rail. Once the bait is on, attach a balloon or a weight and make sure it goes down roughly 80 feet. Rest the second bait in the trolley holder and sink it to 60 feet. The third line should be down 30 feet and baited without a balloon. If you allow your drags to be loose you will quickly hear them making noises if you get a bite. Similarly you might want to use different colored balloons so you know which line is being pulled.

As soon as you have caught your shark take care! All sharks have different temperaments and you need to be aware that they can behave erratically. Some sharks may take the bait and swallow and be landed with little struggle. Others may attack the boat or try to drag the line in the opposite direction. If a harness is required, make sure is it properly attached to the reel and boat.

When the shark is close to your boat, quickly gain the assistance of a fellow fisherman to help pull the shark on board. Use a hand wire to help you do this, and never fasten it to yourself. You must always be in position to release it easily if the shark appears likely to injure you. Sharks are very strong creatures and they can be volatile, so extreme care must be taken.

Take care to return the shark to the water unless you have a very good reason for keeping it. Legitimate reasons to take it with you include using it for food, being in a fishing competition, or you think it is a potential record breaker.

If you adhere to these basic tips, you will enjoy a much safer and successful shark fishing expedition that leaves you with great memories. For great fishing trip information, please visit http://www.fishing-trip-adventures.com, a popular web site providing insights on how to maximize your fishing adventures, such as in Alaska - http://www.fishing-trip-adventures.com/alaska_fly_in_fishing_trips.shtml. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/philippines-travel-gentle-giants-of-donsol http://www.artwoo.com/article/philippines-travel-gentle-giants-of-donsol#comments Mon, 17 Apr 2006 14:50:04 +0000 whale sharkswhale sharkmarine biologistdonsolwhale watchinggentle giantshark family http://www.artwoo.com/article/philippines-travel-gentle-giants-of-donsol Donsol used to be a sleepy coastal town in Sorsogon--a province in the southernmost tip of Luzon. Nobody knows Donsol except for, of course, its local inhabitants until a few years ago when tourists from all over the world began to flock this remote place to get a look-see at the largest fish on earth: the whale shark.

Before, fishermen in Donsol were ignorant of the ecological (and tourist) value of whale sharks. They used to hunt, slaughter and sell the poor gentle sea creatures to Japanese traders. Local folks call them "butanding" or "big fish" in the vernacular. Early sightings of the butandings were reported in the Visayan seas in Bohol further south. It was said that massive slaughtering caused their migration to Donsol waters.

Although, according to stories, the first butanding that was netted out in the area was also butchered. A marine biologist witnessed it and instantly recognized the fish as a rare marine specie. The biologist immediately reported the incident to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), an international organization promoting the preservation of the wildlife.

WWF wasted no time and launched an education campaign about the giant creature. After coordinating with the Department of Tourism, whale-watching soon became a tourist activity that allowed extra income for the people of Donsol.

Whale sharks can grow up to 50 feet in length. It has a rather wide mouth with hundreds of pointed teeth. It usually comes in grey or greenish brown color with white or yellow spots all over its body.

It earned the label gentle giant of the sea because of its harmless nature, considering it is of the shark family. It has nothing in common with whales except for its size, thus the name. Divers can swim and interact with them and are only known to sink deeper into the ocean when it gets upset. There has been no known attack on humans of whale sharks.

Scientists are still baffled with the large migration of whale sharks in Donsol. These fishes are known to prefer the cold waters, not the tropical seas that we have. One explanation would be the flourishing of planktons in the area. Planktons are organisms that fill the diet of the whale sharks. It is also hard to record the number of whale sharks that now thrive in Donsol. But early studies show that whale sharks can travel 14,000 miles in 40 months and is capable of breeding in different sea environments.

Whale sharks swim on the surface of the water especially during the morning and early afternoon. It opens its mouth rhythmically when feeding on the planktons and visitors may be treated to this wondrous sight if they spot the fish at the perfect time. But don't expect them to jump up and down the water like the whales or dolphins. That's actually another beauty of the whale shark experience because this makes it perfectly east and safe to get near them. John Grant has been living in the Philippines for 5 years and has travelled the country extensively. His online Philippines Travel Guide http://www.netguard.dk gives you an extensive coverage of destinations like Sorsogon http://www.netguard.dk/luzon/sorsogon/ ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/activities-on-the-western-cape http://www.artwoo.com/article/activities-on-the-western-cape#comments Mon, 30 Jun 2008 11:22:16 +0000 great white sharkstsitsikamma national parkmossel baywhale seasonwhale routewhite sharksgentle giants http://www.artwoo.com/article/activities-on-the-western-cape
Whale Watching

One of the most popular activities in the Western Cape is whale watching. The whale season in South Africa runs from July to November, providing the best opportunity to catch sight of these gentle giants. Visitors will find numerous opportunities for whale watching during this time as the whales arrive in the area for mating and to calve in the protected warm waters of the bay areas. The heart of the whale watching region can be found in Hermanus, well known as the best area in the entire country for whale watching. Walker Bay, in particular, offers extremely good sighting opportunities. In fact, it is often quite possible to catch sight of the whales just a few feet from the shore. While Walker Bay is one of the premier whale watching locales in the world, the whale route actually stretches all along the Western Cape, touching upon such places as Knysna, Mossel Bay and the coastline of the Tsitsikamma National Park.

Shark Diving

You will find there are a variety of different options for catching site of the Great White sharks that make their home off the coast of South Africa. Perhaps one of the most exciting of these options is the opportunity to take a cage diving trip near Dyer Island. This locale is well known as one of the best shark diving spots in the world. Cage diving trips provide the opportunity to learn more about Great White sharks as well enjoy an up close and personal experience with the Great White sharks, all from the safety of the diving cage. These excursions provide an excellent opportunity to not only watch the sharks in their native environment but also take fabulous photos as well.

Game Safaris

Game viewing safaris remain of the most popular attractions of the Western Cape and South Africa. Certainly, no trip to the region would be complete without a safari adventure. A number of different game parks are in operation throughout the entire country; however, the oldest, most well known and largest is without a doubt Krueger National Park. Visitors can take advantage of the opportunity to view the beautiful wildlife that makes their home in the region through guided hikes and overnight trips.

Bungy Jumping

Bungy jumping has become an exciting adventure to be enjoyed around the world. Some of the most exciting opportunities to bungy jump exist on the Western Cape, particularly at Bloukran River Bridge near Storms River in the spectacularly beautiful Garden Route region. This site actually offers the highest commercially operated bungy jumping site in the world, reaching up to an impressive 525 feet. The bridge leading to the jumping site is actually a bit higher; however, a walkway which was specially constructed for the adventure, allows jumpers to reaching the jumping site.We are your source for Cape Town Accommodation, Cape Town Hotels, Camps Bay Bed and Breakfasts, and more for your next vacation to the Western Cape.]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/megalodon-the-worlds-largest-predator http://www.artwoo.com/article/megalodon-the-worlds-largest-predator#comments Sat, 02 Dec 2006 02:27:15 +0000 great white sharkmegalodon teethgiant sharklargest sharkfossilized teethcenozoic eraall that remains http://www.artwoo.com/article/megalodon-the-worlds-largest-predator largest shark the world has ever seen. Initially researchers estimated this beast to be 80 to 100 feet in length. More recent estimates are in the 40 to 50 feet range and weighing up to 48 tons. This makes Megalodon one of the largest predators ever. In fact only the sperm whale is bigger! It would take seven African elephants at seven tons each to equal the weight of this extinct shark.

Super Size Me This beast had no equal in the ocean and certainly nothing preyed upon it. Providing nourishment for 48 tons of raw powered muscle is no slight task. They probably dined on whales.

The Era of Megalodon Megalodon was a giant shark that lived during the Miocene and Pliocene epics of the Cenozoic Era, between 2 million and 16 million years ago. Little is known for sure about these giant predators because all that remains of their existence are fossilized teeth. But what teeth they are! They range in size from 3 inches long to 7 inches long. Massive things that are bigger than a man's hand. It sets the imagination reeling. To put this in perspective a large great white shark measures about 20 feet long and weighs a little over 2 tons. A tooth from a shark like this is about 1.5 inches long.

Megalodon Teeth Megalodon teeth are very much like a super-sized version of the white shark. There are some differences. The most notable of these is the darker chevron shaped area between the root and the blade of the tooth. This area is called the bourlette. Other differences are the serrations at the edge of the tooth. These are finer than in the white shark and more regular.

No Bones About It The fossilized teeth are all that remains of this monster because sharks do not have bones. Their skeleton is made up of cartilage. This is what your ears and nose are made from. Cartilage does not fossilize well.

The Family Tree The white shark is the closest living relative to the megalodon. This is well accepted but sets the stage for controversy.

The debate is over the relationship between the white shark and the megalodon. The scientific name is Carcharocles Megalodon. This is not universally accepted. The point of contention has to do with megalodon's family tree and whether it was a direct ancestor of the white shark or a great uncle on a different branch of the tree. Proponents of direct lineage want the name Carcharodon (same genus as the white shark). Others believe that though there are similarities, the differences suggest separate lines and so separate names. Claudia Mann is a teacher and a contributor to http://www.fossils-facts-and-finds.com where you can find out more about megalodon. Claudia and her husband own http://www.fossilicious.com, where you can find Megalodon teeth and other fossils at great prices. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/scuba-diver-escaped-shark-attack-in-australia http://www.artwoo.com/article/scuba-diver-escaped-shark-attack-in-australia#comments Mon, 05 Mar 2007 04:27:03 +0000 white shark attackgreat white sharkshark encounterscuba divingscuba diverteeth grindingvigorously http://www.artwoo.com/article/scuba-diver-escaped-shark-attack-in-australia scuba diver repelled a Great White Shark attack yesterday. How did this man escaped from the most feared predator of the sea, the monstrous Great White Shark which is known to grow up to 30 feet long and can weigh tons?

The Australian scuba diver, Eric Nerhus said that he resisted the shark attack so vigorously because he did not want to be an undignified fish food. Fish food? The Great White Shark is no ordinary shark It is a huge mean meat eating machine and nothing in the ocean can stand against its ferocity and viciousness.

Scuba Diving Shark Encounter

According to Eric, he was scuba diving collecting abalone in the ocean south of Sidney when he suddenly found himself half way into the gigantic mouth of the 10 footer monster with its sharp razor teeth grinding on him. He told Australia's Nine Network TV station that he was so shocked at first that he did not know what was happening. 'I went straight into its mouth. My shoulders, my head and one arm went straight down its throat and I could feel its teeth crunching up and down on my scuba diving weight vest.' he described to reporters from his hospital bed.

Eric, a father of two teenage kids realized that his only hope of escaping from the shark was by stabbing repeatedly at the creature's eye with his abalone chisel as the shark begun to shake him side to side in a vicious vice like grip around his waist. The struggle was so violent that Eric's regulator (breathing apparatus scuba diving gear) was knocked out from his mouth preventing him from breathing and his diver's face mask crushed.

The shark must have been hurt by Eric's vigorous stabbing of its eye that it suddenly paused, and then open its mouth just in the nick of time for Eric to escape from the shark's deadly jaws. The gallant scuba diver then swam painfully to the surface followed by the shark not too far behind him. He was quickly pulled to safety by his son before the Great White shark gets its second chance of making Eric its fish food.

The waters of Australia, South Africa and Florida are known to experience Great White Shark attacks on scuba divers, snorklers, surfers and swimmers now and then. Attacks by The Great White sharks are usually fatal and this scuba diver must have been very lucky to have escaped one piece. Chris Chew is a scuba diving fan. More articles at http://scuba-diving-destinations.blogspot.com and http://hawaii-vacations-holidays.blogspot.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/auto-sales-and-auto-service-who-rips-you-off-more http://www.artwoo.com/article/auto-sales-and-auto-service-who-rips-you-off-more#comments Mon, 23 Oct 2006 14:27:07 +0000 repeatedlynumber crunchersfinance managerhow to buy a carcar salesmangetting rippedautomotive service http://www.artwoo.com/article/auto-sales-and-auto-service-who-rips-you-off-more car salesman. They talk too fast, use too many clichés, and are generally exasperating. There's nothing worse than being verbally romanced only to find out you were ripped-off--or is there?

How about getting ripped-off repeatedly? How about getting ripped-off repeatedly for years? How about never even knowing you were ripped-off, repeatedly, and for years?

Welcome to service! When it comes to swindling, automotive service representatives are the real experts. They have more experience, and way more opportunity to rip you off.

A car salesman has only a few chances to rip you off provided you even engage in negotiations. There's the price of the car, financing, leasing, accessories/options, extended warranties, your trade-in, and the general bull that wafts from the salesmen's mouth.

You should also watch out for the finance manager. Today's finance folks aren't just number crunchers, they're salesmen in disguise. This is where you'll be encouraged to buy the extended warranty and a host of other accessories that can all be packaged up nicely into your financing.

Car sales rip-off attempts are easily thwarted. Number one, you can just walk away! Also, there are numerous resources on how to buy a car without losing your shirt. If you're interested, visit the RepairTrust resource link @ www.repairtrust.com and you'll find several sites that will tell you everything you want to know about buying, trading, leasing, financing, new, used...etc.

It's quite different in the world of car repair. Your car needs service. You HAVE to deal with a service representative, like it or not.

The folks in the dim underworld of automotive service are well-trained in the art of ripping people off. They're not the feeding-frenzied, thrashing sharks of sales that are easy to spot.

No, service representatives are the Great Whites. They primarily hunt alone, hiding in the murky waters of service, striking without warning.

What's really scary is that the service industry is infested with Great Whites. Traditional tips and suggestions to avoid their attacks don't work. This is evidenced by the fact that service customers are scammed "tens of billions of dollars every year."

Information is the key to STOP a Great White. If one knows who, what, when, where, why, and how it hunts, one can take control.

Importantly, "Sharks are not mindless eating machines." The Great Whites of the service industry are experienced and smart. There are so many attacks from so many different directions, and new technologies provide fresh chum daily.

With auto repair, technology creates confusion. Technology creates ripples and waves, making it difficult to see below the surface of even simple auto repairs.

The Great White can sense the anxiety of a service customer, like it can a struggling swimmer. In the midst of this confusion, the waters of service get even murkier, and SPLASH--it's cost you an arm and a leg.

In today's service environment, the service customer needs protection, and needs to be empowered with accurate information and powerful tools before even entering the waters. There's no need to lose any limbs, ever! Theodore P. Olson (Ted) holds extensive certifications from Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, GM, and ASE. He is the author of eight books and numerous articles on the automotive service industry. http://www.repairtrust.com/ Solutions ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/swimming-in-open-ocean-environments http://www.artwoo.com/article/swimming-in-open-ocean-environments#comments Fri, 04 Jan 2008 05:30:01 +0000 open ocean environmentsopen ocean areasreef locationcoral reefland connectionsair tankscharter boat http://www.artwoo.com/article/swimming-in-open-ocean-environments
When people plan to go snorkeling however, it might be necessary for them to abandon all land connections and board a charter boat that will take them to a coral reef location that will be out in the open ocean areas and the distance traveled by boat will make seeing land virtually impossible. In the open ocean, there are very few opportunities that a swimmer will have to be saved and they must rely on their own swimming abilities to remain afloat for any length of time.

Salt water has a consistency that will help swimmers remain afloat. The body is very buoyant when exposed to salt water and swimming through the water might require a person to use more strength in their strokes than they would if they were swimming in a swimming pool filled with fresh water. Snorkeling equipment is very light and limited because there are no air tanks involved. A swimmer can float on the surface of the water and view objects beneath them for hours if they want to.

For open ocean dives, a diver might be tasked to swim with a considerable amount of weight on their back. This is where the strength training that they take during the summer months will come in very handy and could prove to be a vital point in survival if the swimmer is stranded in the open ocean. When swimming in the open ocean, a swimmer must be keenly aware that they are not the only life forms that swim in those waters.

While swimming in open ocean environments, a swimmer must remember not to drink the salt water. While the water might quench the thirst for a little while, it will in fact, deplete the body of fluids that the swimmer needs to survive. The salt will cause the lips to become dry and the sun will scorch the areas of the skin that are above and below the surface of the water. The swimmer should use reflective devices if at all possible to bring attention to the location they are in the water.

If sharks are present while snorkeling in the open ocean, it is best for the swimmer to surface slowly and leave the water as soon as possible. Swimmers should avoid splashing or making loud noises because sharks will show interest and could perceive the noise to be a form of aggression. Divers should not swim with shiny objects on them because sharks are attracted to these objects. Divers should not go swimming in the open ocean if they have an open wound on their body for the same reasons. Sharks have a keen sense of smell and could consider the swimmer as a natural source of food. James Brown writes about http://www.latestcouponcodes.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-shark-fishing-can-be-an-addiction http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-shark-fishing-can-be-an-addiction#comments Mon, 22 May 2006 09:32:10 +0000 shark fishingbass pro shopsfishing baitmulletsfish marketsbeacheslocal beach http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-shark-fishing-can-be-an-addiction Shark fishing on shallow water It is a well known fact that during summertime Sharks move from the deeper waters offshore into inland waterways and beaches. The Sharks seek warmer shallow waters to carry out mating rituals and to either lay eggs or give live birth. It is very important if you are interested in swimming or in landing huge fish from the bank. There is no other type of fishing (that I know of) where the angler has an exceptional chance of hooking on to a 500lb plus fish while fishing from the bank.

I was introduced to shark fishing a few years ago from an old man on the Pensacola Pier, who really knew how to catch a big fish.

Shark fishing equipment needed First of all you need a powerful reel for shark fishing: a 16/0 Penn Senator from Bass Pro Shops. You also need some very strong line: 3000 yard of braided 80lb test and of course a rod to put it all on.

Shark fishing From the Beach Ever since I meet that old man on the Pensacola Pier I have had the addiction of Shark Fishing since. I have been shark fishing beaches all over the South Eastern United States combing the beaches and piers for just the right sandbar, just the right current and tide. I normally rent a kayak from the local Beach Supply Store and sometimes camp outdoor, and sometimes I rent a hotel.

Shark fishing bait The bait is hard to can be expensive and is often difficult to find. The best places to find fresh fish is at a fish market and usually Asian fish markets have a much wider selection to choose from. The most successful baits are Spanish Mackerels, King Mackerels, Bonito, Jack Crevelle and Mullets.

Shark fishing addiction Shark fishing from beach or pier can sometimes bring in sharks over 10 feet long. If you try shark fishing ones, you might get addicted, and rush out to purchase your own equipment. I thing that Shark fishing is something the whole family can truly enjoy. It's not just about catching a shark. It's about good friends, family and beautiful beaches.

If you have doubts about daring to try out shark fishing or not -- don't be afraid. Try it out and you will very soon know why I love it so much.

Thank you for you time. You can find more information about Shark Fishing http://www.shark-fishing-e.com on this website. Check it out! ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-disadvantages-of-borrowing-money-from-loan-sharks http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-disadvantages-of-borrowing-money-from-loan-sharks#comments Sun, 23 Nov 2008 21:29:27 +0000 loan sharkstarting your own businesstraditional loanfriend of the familyfriend of a friendfinancial hardshipowning a home http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-disadvantages-of-borrowing-money-from-loan-sharks
1. You don't have a credit history yet in the U.S.

2. You have had financial hardship in the past and your credit has suffered

If you dream of owning a home, buying a car, or starting your own business, it will be difficult and expensive to accomplish these goals without establishing and maintaining sound credit. Because this takes time and good financial practice, many Hispanics find immediate help from a loan shark.

What is a loan shark?

When you look for money, you may hear from people you know: "I know this person who loans money and doesn't even ask for papeles". This person who "loans money" could be a friend of a friend, someone who is friend of the family, or even could be found in a store in your neighborhood. There are many disadvantages to using the services of a loan shark even though many claim to be legitimate moneylenders.

They charge weekly interest rates -- What is the real cost of loans from a loan shark? The lender will give you a weekly interest rate instead of an annual one. Remember that bank loans and other financial institutions always use annual interest. Let's take a look at a typical case: The lender gives you $1,000 and you agree to pay 5% weekly interest on this amount. 5% each week translates to about 20% each month, and if you multiply this by 12 months in year, you have an annual interest rate of 260%!

The payments are confusing -- Weekly interest rates that don't seem that high may translate to up to 10, 20 and 30 times more interest than what you would pay in a traditional loan agreement.

The loans are hard to pay off-- In fact, they are designed to be almost impossible to repay. Many people who have taken out loans from these lenders end up losing more than what they originally invested. If you are unable to pay, the lender may constantly harass you or even threaten you with violence. Many people who borrow money from loan sharks lose their businesses.

They don't report to credit bureaus -- Loan sharks sometimes do not report their loans to credit bureaus. To establish, protect and maintain your credit history, you must make sure that your creditors do in fact report their loans to credit agencies. If they do not, there is no official record of your loan payments.

They don't operate within the regulations -- If you have a complaint, you have nowhere to go because loan sharks do not have to abide by regulations put in place to protect you as the consumer.

In general, it is better to avoid these types of lenders at all costs. If you need money for your business or for an emergency and if you do not have access to a bank loan, try to take out loans with ACCION, a non-profit organization that gives business and personal loans and reports to the three main credit bureaus.

For more information, visit www.yourmoney.accion.org.Andrea Stiles Pullas writes about small business loans and alternative credit for ACCION USA's Your Money and You.]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/virginia-pier-fishing-recreation-for-the-entire-family http://www.artwoo.com/article/virginia-pier-fishing-recreation-for-the-entire-family#comments Wed, 12 Nov 2008 04:36:29 +0000 virginia fishing pierstarget spotcroakers spotking mackerelspanish mackerelnorfolk spotpier fishing http://www.artwoo.com/article/virginia-pier-fishing-recreation-for-the-entire-family pier fishing. Visiting a fishing pier is something anglers of all ages are likely to enjoy. Pier fishing is easy to do, often requires no licenses or permits and allows anglers of all ages, sexes and skill levels to fish or just enjoy a day of fresh air.

Depending on the season and location, fishermen may catch trout, croakers, spot, pigfish, sheepshead, sea bass, tautog, pompano, white perch, bluefish, Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, cobia, spadefish, small sharks, red drum, black drum or other fish on Virginia fishing piers.

Spring can be a good time to visit some of the Virginia piers. Early season fishing can include runs of croaker, striped bass, bluefish or even drum fish. Summer fishing is more consistent, with catches varying depending on the environment of the pier. Bayside pier catches will be dominated by panfish such as croakers, spot, trout and perch, while ocean piers see some of the exotic catches such as Spanish and king mackerel, cobia, spadefish, pompano, sharks and other species.

Perhaps the most popular season to fish from Virginia's piers includes the timespan from mid August day thru October. This is when anglers from all over the state flock to their favorite pier for the runs of fish. Most anglers by far come to catch Norfolk spot, known simply as "spot". The small but delicious panfish arrive in large schools, to the delight of anglers from 4 to 104 years of age. Spot are easy to catch and tend to bite regardless of weather, tides or time of day. Anglers use a light rod, small hooks and morsels of baits that include bloodworms, artificial bloodworm baits, squid, shrimp, clams or crabs. While most anglers target spot, others will specialize in other species during the late summer and early fall runs. Fishermen at the pier ends may set specialized rigs for sharks or cobia, while other specialists might go after for tautog, sea bass, sheepshead or pompano.

Several Virginia saltwater fishing piers are easy to find and are suitable for first time visitors.

The Virginia Beach Fishing Pier is located right on the beach at 15th Street and the Oceanfront in Virginia Beach Virginia. The Virginia Beach Fishing Pier is a very popular and productive fishing spot. Anglers of all ages, sexes and skill levels congregate to enjoy a fun day on the pier. The pier is located on the boardwalk in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

The Seagull Pier is a good local pier to fish from. It lies on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel and extends into the bay. Trout, croakers, spot, bluefish, spanish mackerel, small sharks and even black drum are caught from the pier. Fishing can be productive and continues at night, when bait congregates under the lights, which attracts predators to the pier.

The Ocean View Fishing Pier offers anglers excellent fishing. The 1690' long by 16' wide pier features a 48' wide T section at it's end and extends into the Chesapeake Bay between the Chesapeake Bay bridge Tunnel and the Hampton Roads Tunnel.

The Saxis Fishing Pier on Virginia's Eastern shore is an excellent local pier. The pier extends 200 feet into Saxis Harbor and terminates with a 100-foot t-head. The pier is handicapped accessible and ADA compliant. The pier is lit and is open 24 hours a day. Anglers visiting the Saxis Fishing Pier catch croakers, spot, white perch, trout, striped bass, bluefish, flounder and other Chesapeake Bay fish. Bait is available locally including peeler crab or soft crab baits. There is no fee to use the Saxis Fishing Pier although a valid saltwater fishing license is required.

Before visiting any saltwater fishing pier in Virginia, it is a good idea to contact the Virginia Marine Resources Commission or local tackle shops for fishing regulations.For more on Virginia saltwater fishing, visit www.chesapeake-bay.org, Maryland-Virginia Saltwater Fishing or Virginia Fishing Piers.]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/scuba-diving-south-east-asia http://www.artwoo.com/article/scuba-diving-south-east-asia#comments Tue, 11 Dec 2007 16:15:00 +0000 similan islandgranite boulderssimilan islandscolorful coralsgranite islandsjacques cousteaumarine fishes http://www.artwoo.com/article/scuba-diving-south-east-asia colorful corals.

As a matter of fact, there are many world class dive sites in this region and with its excellent underwater visibility, South East Asia is indeed a scuba diver's haven. So, here are some of the top dive sites in South East Asia many of which I have dived in several times.

We shall start with Indonesia and of course, the island of Bali cannot be left out. Perhaps the most dived site in Bali is the Liberty wreck. The wreck was a US army logistic ship sunk by Japanese submarine torpedoes during the last world war.

Liberty wreck lies in the depth of about 10m (32ft) to 30m (100ft) over 120m (385ft) of the sea bed. Divers can see guns, toilets, ship anchor chain among other things of a typical shipwreck. The wreck is heavily encrusted with corals and brightly decorated with gorgonian sea fans and sea anemones.

Scuba divers will also encounter large schools of trevally and more than 400 species of marine fishes and even exotic colonies of elusive garden eels.

Similan island in Thailand is another interesting dive site. Similan is located off the coast of Khao Lak which was hit badly by a Tsunami 2006. Nine granite islands made up the Similan islands. These islands are covered by luxuriant tropical rainforests surrounded by pristine white beaches and turquoise blue water.

This area is a protected national park. Below the water lie a sprawling underwater garden of deep canyons, coral gardens, huge granite boulders, caves and walls. Liveaboard scuba diving is the norm here.

Sipadan Island in Malaysia was made famous by Jacques Cousteau's documentary entitled Ghost Of The Sea Turtles. This is an oceanic island which is not connected to any continental shelf that rises about 2000 ft on an awesome limestone pinnacle and mushrooms out at the surface.

Many dive magazines have named Sipadan as one of the best dive sites in the world and reported to have the largest variety of soft corals in the world. At Sipadan, scuba divers will encounter exciting drift dives, fascinating coral formations, turtles, lobsters, barracudas and even various species of sharks.

Manado, northen Sulawesi, Indonesia is the gateway to world class dive spots in the Bunaken National Park. Muck diving, meaning diving for little critters on the seabed in Manado bay is the norm here. In this part of Indonesia, you will encounter exhilarating wall dives, drop offs, huge napoleon wrasse, reef sharks and also another shipwreck.

Layang Layang in Malaysia is a breathtaking atoll. It is part of a shoal group in the South China Sea known as the Spratly islands. Here, massive numbers of barracuda roams the water, large pelagic fishes and sharks make this place home. Do not be surprised if you are investigated by a school of hammerhead sharks. Chris Chew owns a website about traveling in Asia at http://www.asiatravelbest.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/swimming-with-the-sharks-tips-for-safe-shark-diving http://www.artwoo.com/article/swimming-with-the-sharks-tips-for-safe-shark-diving#comments Thu, 18 Oct 2007 19:20:00 +0000 shark diveshark cagegooglephotographyadventurousdive masterssolid experience http://www.artwoo.com/article/swimming-with-the-sharks-tips-for-safe-shark-diving adventurous dive! It's the kind of vacation most are too scared to dare.

I'm talking about a shark dive. It may sound outrageous and frightening at first, but there's a lot you can do to ensure a safe dive.

First, a scheduled shark dive will always be with a trained and qualified crew. They will operate a boat with the appropriate equipment and facilities.

But don't just select a company at random. Be sure you do your research first.

Things to consider...

1. How long has the company been around? Has the company been in business only a few months, a few years or more? Experience tells you that the company probably has a plan in place for emergencies.

2. What's the company's reputation? Google works wonders for this. Do they have problems with keeping appointments? Do they have a good safety track record?

3. Where do they operate and are they close to help? Obviously if you're on vacation you'll probably want to go someplace you'll enjoy. You not only need to make sure they can operate near there, but that they also have a route to help if something should happen.

4. Is the crew qualified? Do they have solid experience? Are they medically trained? Do they have qualified dive masters on board? Are they properly licensed? Do they carry liability insurance or any other kind of bonding that may be required in their area?

5. What kind of equipment do they operate? Most will operate a boat and a shark cage. How big is the cage and how current old is it? What kind of amenities do they offer on board the boat? Do they offer enough wet suits to comfortably fit your party?

6. What kind of photography do they allow? Some companies will handle photography for you, others will have a place where you can take some yourself. Make sure this matches your style. If you'll be going in the water you'll not only want an underwater camera but you'll probably want to bring a friend that can sit above and take pictures from the surface too. Sharks tend to be surface feeders so you'll get a lot of good photos from above.

7. What are their rates? Are their rates affordable and competitive? I've seen prices vary from a few hundred a day to a few thousand a day depending on the scale and quality of the encounter.

Then...

They'll know where to go and how to get the sharks attention. When you get there make sure you follow any instructions you're given. Keep the weather in mind too, sudden shifts in the weather can make diving hazardous and may preclude you from being able to go on your scheduled day.

Most places will run thru a basic training program with you if you're planning to dive. This will cover how the breathing apparatus works and some basic information about shark behavior. Some places may require you be a qualified scuba diver, so be sure to ask for that ahead of time and assure that you meet the qualifications as necessary.

Once you do go underwater you'll be in for an experience few will ever experience. But exercise some common sense too. Don't poke or grab approaching sharks. Once the shark is swimming beside the cage you can sometimes reach out and pet it, but be careful and keep your hands and feet inside the cage whenever you're uncertain.

But most of all... have fun! Once you get relaxed you'll begin having a lot more fun. Hi. I'm the owner of a fun blog that has the craziest Shark Attack Video Clips you'll find anywhere at http://sharkattackvids.com/ ... Visit http://sharkattackvids.com/ today! ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-ripleys-aquarium http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-ripleys-aquarium#comments Fri, 13 Oct 2006 14:27:09 +0000 ripleys aquariumspecies of sharkspublic aquariumsbroadway at the beachunfathomablefoot sharksbroadway at the beach myrtle beach http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-ripleys-aquarium
Every year, there are million of Americans who travel from one state to another leaving their homes behind and spending some hours with the nature. They choose to visit amusement parks, ecological parks, zoos, aquariums etc. These places are their favorites where they can relax, make bonding with their kids or friends and have some fun.

It is more relaxing to spend your vacation on places like those because the atmosphere gives you a little unexplainable feeling that alleviates your spirit. It also gives an unfathomable joy when you are with the natures gift to mankind; the animals.

In the United States there are many Aquariums that can be found. You can choose from many Aquariums that are near your place. Almost all states have their own public aquariums that are made for everybody. Aside from these public aquariums, you can also find private owned and managed aquariums. One of these is the Ripley's Aquarium.

The Ripley's Aquarium is situated at Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach in South Carolina. Ripley's Aquarium is one of the most visited places in South Carolina.

The aquarium is big enough to give you a full satisfaction. The size of the aquarium is 87,000 sq. ft. It was said that the cost of the facility is something like $40 million dollars. It contain 750,000 gallon of water to house different aquatic creatures.

Ripley's Aquarium houses dangerous and fascinating sea animals. You can see there different sizes and species of sharks. One of their prides is the 10-foot sharks that swim around the aquarium. There are also rays that can be found at Ripley's Aquarium. You can find them at the facility known as the Ray Bay. The rays that you see are that natural habitant of Atlantic Ocean. There you can also find Southern Rays, Cow-nose rays, spotted eagle rays, etc. They also showcase different species of fishes from different places around the world like the Pacific, Hawaii, Australia and Indian Ocean. There are other facilities that the Ripley's Aquarium features.

The Ripley's Aquarium is open everyday from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. The facility has rules inside to be followed to protect the welfare of the resident animals. This content is provided by Low Jeremy. It may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more information on aquariums, how to maintain, the basics of owning one, please visit http://aquarium.articlekeep.com ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/tips-for-fishing-in-salt-water http://www.artwoo.com/article/tips-for-fishing-in-salt-water#comments Wed, 19 Sep 2007 03:25:01 +0000 fish checktypes of fishsalt water fishingfishing tripstraight down the middlesalt watersenjoyable experience http://www.artwoo.com/article/tips-for-fishing-in-salt-water enjoyable experience on the salt waters, there are several simple tips that will help along the way.

First, you need to make sure you are licensed to fish before you begin. This is true regardless of where you fish. Check the fishing regulations for the state or country you are in.

Your boat is your most important "tool" for a salt water fishing trip. The size of the vessel you need will be determined by how many people intend to come along with you.

Many of those who enjoy fishing in shore opt for a boat roughly fifteen feet in length. These usually have a built-in shelter for protection from storms and gusty winds. The boat you select should be light but able to withstand waves and a strong current.

You can bring different types of lines depending on types of fish you hope to catch. A cod-line is useful if you are planning to go "down below" at any time. If you want to catch different fish, make sure you have brought the correct line.

If you have never fished in a particular area before why not try consulting the locals? They should be able to tell you the best spots to cast your line. Short of that, practice will help you will find the best fishing locations. Too many anglers fall into the trap of moving to different spots frequently without waiting long enough to allow the fish to come near; constant movement may, in fact, scare the fish away. The most useful "skill" you need to employ on the water is patience. Once you have located a good fish spot, give the fish time to be lured, and then do your utmost to land them.

The best tide to fish on is the ebb, and the best time for this is in the morning - the earlier the better. This will help you to maximize your catch. And if you get the benefit of good wind direction, you will be home quickly after your fishing trip.

Fish the edges of your location. Never drop your line straight down the middle, as that will startle the fish. By fishing the sides you can draw the fish to the center and increase your chances of landing them.

It is wise to fish from the shallowest water to the deepest. And if you are having no success, try changing bait. You might be pleasantly surprised at the results.

On occasion, sharks can interrupt your fishing by frightening other fish away. However don't let them scare you away! If you find you are having a problem with sharks, try rolling up a newspaper soaked in fish blood, then throw it overboard. The sharks will generally follow the current with the trail of blood and leave you alone.

By following these simple tips, you should be able to enjoy a great fishing adventure on the salt waters. For great fishing trip information, please visit http://www.fishing-trip-adventures.com, a popular web site providing insights on how to maximize your fishing adventures, such as in Florida - http://www.fishing-trip-adventures.com/florida_tarpon_fishing.shtml. ]]> http://www.artwoo.com/article/freshwater-tropical-fish-guide-the-blue-gourami http://www.artwoo.com/article/freshwater-tropical-fish-guide-the-blue-gourami#comments Wed, 07 Feb 2007 10:27:05 +0000 gourami fishfreshwater tropical fishblue gouramipreferablyfrozen brine shrimpdghgouramis http://www.artwoo.com/article/freshwater-tropical-fish-guide-the-blue-gourami Blue Gourami, sometimes also called the 3 Spot Gourami is a popular freshwater tropical fish for aquarium keeping. these fish are usually a light blue color and have three dark spots, one on the base of the tail, one in the middle of the body and the eye which looks like the third spot. The Gourami type of fish itself comes in several colors, the blue which you often see in pet stores, gold and opaline as well as a few other rear of varieties. These fish can grow very large and are best suited for larger aquariums.

The Blue Gourami is a fairly easy fish to keep and will exist fine on floating flake food that you probably feed to the majority of the other fish in your tank. However, like most creatures, these fish do need a little bit of variety and it's good to throw in some freeze dried blood worms or frozen brine shrimp every once in a while just to be sure they are getting all the vital nutrients that they need.

If you buy a Gourami fish that is very small you might be able to start them off in a smaller aquarium but eventually you going to have to get a 50 gallon or larger as the fish grows. This species can grow quite large and you want to be sure that you house them suitably. you also need to be sure that you have a good heater on the tank as these, like many other freshwater tropical fish, require the water temperature to be between 70 and 82F. Other tank conditions include a PH of 6.0 to 8.8 and a hardness of 5-35 dGH.



Since these fish are used to thickly vegetated waters as found in their native tropical waters of the Far East, the Gourami will feel right at home if you have a lot of plants in your aquarium. They get along with other fish of their kind but you need to make sure that you have many Gourami's and preferably different type's in the tank to keep them from ganging up on the other fish. It is best to have at least 4 Gouramis in the tank and even better if you can get a mix of the blue, gold and opaline varieties. Generally, you want to stick to having only one male and the tank as they can be territorial.

The Blue Gourami enjoys the company of the other varieties of Gourami. You could keep Gold, Blue and Opaline Gourami together peacefully in the same aquarium. Oddly enough, if your tank has only one variety of Gourami with other species of fish, the Gourami will gang up on the other fish. When you keep a mix of Gourami in the tank among other fish species, the Gourami tend to focus on their own type and leave the other fish alone. It is recommended that you have a minimum of four Gourami's in your tank, with a mix from the different varieties.





The Gourami can get along in the tank with other fish of the same size and can live peacefully with Barbs, Clown Loaches, Bala Sharks, Danios, Rainbow Sharks, Red Tail Sharks and Rainbows.



If you take excellent care of your Gouramis and provide them with the proper tank conditions, they can live to be four years old and grow to be 4 inches in length. Lee Dobbins writes for http://www.fish-tank-guide.com where you can learn more about setting up and maintaining a fish tank as well as find out about tropical fish for your aquarium. ]]>