Last Morning in the Keys- For Now!

I've talked about the guys next to us fishing. They actually have names. Steve was a career U.S. Sailor on destroyers and frigates. Jimmy was an A&P engine mechanic with Eastern, and David is Jimmy's 21 year-old grandson. David and I had to endure a certain amount of "poking" from the older two. I, as a Marine, am a natural target. David's just young.
I promised to help clean fish if they'd teach me to. Yeasterday they brought home a bucket with 2 dolphin, a snapper, yellowtail, and grunts (french and gray).
When Steve says the knife is sharp, it is scalpel-sharp. Tip to handle. But the fish are tough and soon dull even the best knife.
I learned all the right cuts and how to wiggle the knife down the back bone and take the skin off. A knife is essential, but good pliers are needed too! Steve, has been a charter fishing captain for 35 years. Actually took his license exam in the Navy. Ran a 36-foot sport fisherman in the Chesapeake for 16 years.
So I made sushi. A few good grunt fillets, And a lot of fishburger! I understand what's needed, but getting the hands to do it, is difficult. The bones will surprise you. That's why Steve did the big fish!
I bought some home-cast sinkers from Steve ( of course he gave me much more than I paid for) and announced that I was going to learn off-shore fishing. Now I have two bags of frozen-fresh grunt fillets, and a great memory of helping around a true "fish camp".
This morning is pack-up. The length of the drive is the "x" variable. If it's easy, King's Bay Sub Base, otherwise Patrick AFB Family Camp or Jax/Mayport. Hate to leave the Keys, and won't be back for a little while, but I will keep my NAS Key West base decals active by RV or boat!