The doldrums continue on the fishing scene around Galveston, as fewer anglers are hitting the water. The irony is that it comes at a time when some of the best fishing so far in 2020 is taking place.

The number of anglers fishing the Galveston area seems to be on the decline, and we all know why.

The hot action from earlier this week slowed Friday, as a strong, gusty south wind greeted anglers Friday morning. Gusts to 25 knots were recorded, and that is usually enough to take care of fishing for the day.

About the time the stay-at-home order was issued, fishing busted wide open with catches being reported from all around Galveston.

From the perspective of this columnist, I must say that it has been extremely frustrating trying to answer reasonable questions about the orders and guidelines surrounding the coronavirus.

We are going to divert from fishing reports today to try to clarify what is taking place on the fishing scene because of the stay-at-home order.

Monday there was very little taking place on the fishing scene. A south to southwest wind started increasing in velocity, and anglers knowledgeable about coastal fishing know that that is one of the adverse winds to success in the sport.

Prior to the coronavirus crisis, we often spoke of good fishing etiquette and one of the first things we tell anglers is to respect the area of nearby fishermen and leave a good distance between you and them.

Saturday did not look like a typical spring break weekend day. A few people could be seen combing the beaches and a few others getting exercise strolling down the seawall.

Spring has sprung! Normally this is something to celebrate, as winter is over and warm weather is ahead. This year, however, it is bittersweet as we are dealing with a crisis, and visitors are discouraged from coming to Galveston Island.

Spring break visitors to Galveston continue to enjoy pleasant weather and good fishing conditions. It seems that fewer visitors were taking advantage of the good fishing offered this week.

Readers have been inquiring about whether bait camps will be open during this time while we are hunkering down to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

One question that has arisen from anglers and businesses that cater to fishermen is how compliance with the guidelines for dealing with the coronavirus will affect those involved with fishing.

Today is St. Patrick’s Day, and it should be a good day for fishing. Unfortunately, most anglers and almost everyone else have the coronavirus epidemic on their minds. For anglers, fishing should be a good way to relax and get it off their minds for a while.

Saturday the bite was on all around the island, as anglers were taking advantage of nice fishing conditions.

There is much uncertainty about what further steps will be taken regarding controlling the coronavirus pandemic. However, for the short term, there will be many more people with time off to fish.

The wave of cancellations because of the coronavirus has hit the fishing scene, as the 23rd annual Turning Point Drum Tournament scheduled for April 3 and 4 has been canceled.

While black drum have been the hot topic around Bolivar Peninsula for the last few days, there was a spurt of action on reds and flounder reported from Horseshoe Lake.

Fog has been the huge handicap to fishing this week and has been delaying most fishing trips until close to noon each day. Forecasts are calling for a continuation of this trend for a few more days.