Capt. Brian's Observations On The Water

Immerse in an ECO-Tour and Experience Southwest Florida Islands by Boat

“Captain Brian Holaway is well versed in the intricacies of our unmatched locale. He can guide to and through a multitude of out-of-the way tidal creeks, bayous, keys and islands. More important is his passionate interest and respect for the region. With unique insights from his many explorations and his studies, not only does he identify the birds and wildlife that inhabit our semi-tropical watery land, but he explains their interconnectedness to their environment and each other. In addition, he shares the fascinating history of rugged people who came long before us: Florida Native Indians, the Calusa, the Spanish, the Cubans, early homesteaders, and the wisdom evident in the growth of their culture.

You will come away with great enjoyment and a new understanding of this beautiful place and its history.”

Historian, Betty Anholt
Author of Sanibel’s Story

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Chicago Sisters

There is nothing like being on the water at first light. We drifted with the tide and watched the day unfold as a bald eagle graced us with his presence. Then it was on to the beach. The olives were rolling in. (Secret spot number 3) Many great finds were found. After a morning of shelling we traveled to the Tarpon Lodge for a delicious lunch . On the return trip we saw many dolphin and enjoyed the beautiful Florida fall weather. It is always fun with these Chicago sisters that love to shell.

Sunday, October 14, 2012

Fun Time Shelling

I had a great time with long time visitors to the islands. Carol, Tom, Dean and the sometimes militant sheller, Bonnie. We started our trip by travelling to favorite spot number one. Bonnie found a great small horse conch. Carol found olives and many minis. Tom was just happy to be wading in the water with his shell net. Dean covered lots of area and found some very nice sun ray venus. After spending time at favorite spot number one we traveled to "Stu and Vicki's Spot". The olives were rolling in and Carol kept saying " I won't pick another olive" then she picked up another one, then another. (I think she is getting the shelling bug). We also found sand dollars, two albino cockles, two tusks, banded tulips, apple murexs, worm shells and baby's ears. It was a great trip! I enjoyed the conversations and listening to their stories about earlier years on the island. We also got to break in the shell board today. Carol was the first one to sign the board. I am looking forward to when they return. Thank you for a fun day on the water!

Friday, October 12, 2012

Capt. Brian's New Shell Board

What is a shell board?

I had this idea...why not make a board that I could display and photograph my client's shells on at the end of the trip. I usually put the shells on the fish cleaning table to take pictures. Many times I want to show how big or small a shell is. You will notice numbers across the bottom that are black and white and indicate inches. I took this idea from one of my archaeology books. I put a few shells from the back porch on it for a "Test Run" today. I soon realized that I need the black and white numbers on both sides going up the board. The back of the board is an area for people to sign after the trip, if they wish. Yes, we will have a "signing of the shell board". There you have it, Capt. Brian's shell board!

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

Last Light And Bonus Pictures

Charlie Robinson was singing about pioneer town people and footprints in the sand as the sun fell into the sea.

Sunday, October 7, 2012

New Places On The Chart

Billy Idol drove me to the waters edge. But it was Robert Earl Keen that led the way. I made many discovories along the way. . I have wanted to explore this remote island for some time, I wanted to check this island out in early December, but today was the day.