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VOLUME 15 ISSUE 3
Modern Day Pirates Bahamas & Back in 18 Hours or Less
92
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52 FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
JOURNAL // ONLINE // TELEVISION
Contents MAY/JUNE 2016
FEATURES
DEPARTMENTS
30 Clear Advantage
INSIGHT 10 From The Helm
Doppler-Effect Radar Provides a Breakthrough for Recreational Boaters
44 Sunken Treasure
Local Waters are Littered with Scores of Promising Structure
52 Phinatical The Search for Greener Pastures
60 A History of Fishing Destin, a Diamond Along Florida’s Emerald Coast
64 Hell Bent
The Benefits of Curved Rod Butts for Beating Big Game
74 Enjoy the Show
Tips for Shooting, Editing and Posting Your Angling Adventures
78 Deadly Descent
A Guide to Slow Jigging
92 Creatures of the Lagoon Finding and Fooling Florida’s Record Trout
102 Running with the Bulls
Vital Elements Setting Massive Outboards and Their Brands Apart
112 On the T-Hook’
Can You Really Avoid Taxes Purchasing a Boat?
144 The Cape Awaits
Fishing Aplenty Where Oceans Collide
Making Sense of Radio Chatter
12 Ask The Experts
Pending Law Would Curb On-The-Water Stops
136 Insider Secrets
Keeping You Connected
176 Till Next Tide
Admit It…You Need Help
178 On The Horizon
Back in Black—Seabass from Coast-to-Coast
GEAR 14 Gear Guide
78
Innovative Accessories
128 Marine Electronics Leading Edge Technology
155 Bait Wars
Black Bart 1656 Angle vs. Mold Craft Reel Tight
TACTICS 18 Pro’s Tip
Tips for Picking Apart a Flat’s Defining Features
22 Baitfish Profiles
Beat the Baitfishing Blues in the Shadow of South Beach
26 Rigging Station
Offshore Success in 4 Easy Steps
135 Leaderboard
Welcome to the Winner’s Circle
BOATING 120 Boat Preview
33 Mag Bay, Regulator 41
125 Safe Boating
The Mystery Behind SPF Numbers Solved
131 Service & Repair
Replacing That Wheel Isn’t so Daunting
SEAFOOD 172 Captain’s Kitchen ‘Turtle Brains’
HUMOR 174 Fishy Stories
9
One Man’s Quest to Shun Modern Life
FSFMAG.COM
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
From The Helm Blah…Blah…Blah Making Sense of Radio Chatter
VOLUME 15 ISSUE 3 PUBLISHER/PRESIDENT Leah Genoun leah@floridasportfishing.com
EDITORIAL
FOUNDER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Captain Mike Genoun mike@floridasportfishing.com
CAPTAIN MIKE & LEAH GENOUN VHF RADIOS ARE ARGUABLY THE MOST IMPORTANT safety device on any boat. Having the ability to contact other vessels and local ports-of-call along with first responders in the event of an emergency is pivotal for ensuring safety at sea. VHFs can also be a useful fishing tool and helpful resource for painting an accurate picture of what sort of action is unfolding around you. All of these benefits are compounded once you fully realize the advantages of AIS technology. Spend any amount of time at the helm and you’ll hear irresponsible VHF users abuse radio privileges way past the point of what is considered respectful. It’s easy to tell when the bite is slow as rants and raves covering a variety of topics fly over the radio waves. Just recently, I felt like I was listening to The Jerry Springer Show while drifting outside Hillsboro Inlet. When I power-up my ICOM the only thing I want to hear is what nearby anglers are seeing and experiencing on the water. I couldn’t care less about when you’re going hunting in North Dakota, or who’s hooking up with Julie from Accounting. Newsflash: that’s what cellphones are for. Still, in between all of the gibberish, you’ll overhear legitimate conversations between anglers who actually care about making the most of their time on the water. Being able to decipher what’s beneficial and what’s BS requires a level of tolerance and serious talent. I listen for bits and pieces like the location and depth of rips, color changes and weedlines, or the direction and velocity of the current in different areas
MAY/JUNE 2016
more so than what was caught. Weekend warriors who fish by the radio ruffle my feathers, too. We’ve all overheard desperate anglers practically begging for precise coordinates as soon as they hear of a catch. Newsflash No. 2: just because a pair of dolphin was hooked out in 750 doesn’t mean that there is an entire school of hungry fish waiting for you to show up. Maybe if these guys took a second to consider they can’t catch fish that have already been caught, they wouldn’t be in such a rush to go on some wild goose chase. I say get on the VHF only when you need and start the transmission by providing legitimate and useful information. Sometimes sharing where you are and what you’re not seeing can be more valuable to fellow fishermen than a useless fish tale. Remember to keep VHF transmissions clean and professional. And if you’re looking for a radio check to ensure your equipment is operating properly because you can’t come to grips with the fact that no one is hailing you, dial in to VHF Ch. 27 and try the automated system. Over and out.
10
EDITOR Captain Steve Dougherty steve@floridasportfishing.com ASSOCIATE EDITOR T.M. Golub todd@floridasportfishing.com
ART & DESIGN
ART/CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jose A. Iribarren jose@floridasportfishing.com ADVERTISING DESIGNER Ana Zagazeta ana@floridasportfishing.com COVER PHOTO Captain Steve Dougherty—doughertyphotos.com CONTRIBUTORS William Miller, Diane Rome Peebles, Ted Bennett, Rey Flores, Visit Florida, Bill Serne, University of Miami RSMAS, RECOVER, Harbor Docks, Captain Jimmy Nelson, J. Thomas McMurray, NOAA, Captain Willy Le, Jason Arnold, Plair Owen, Endless Imagery Photography, Will Drost, Michael Grant, Dennis Eisen, Jason Stemple, Dustin Catrett, Captain Peter Deeks, Phil Owen, Tosh Brown, D. Ramey Logan, Chad Alcock, Mark Worden, Harry R. Hindmarsh
SALES
V.P. OF SALES/EVENTS Boone Oughterson boone@floridasportfishing.com SR. ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Captain Carlos D. Rodriguez carlos@floridasportfishing.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Gene Dyer gene@floridasportfishing.com SUBSCRIPTION SALES Paul Burgoon paul@floridasportfishing.com
CLIENT RELATIONS
OFFICE MANAGER Shivanie Maharaj shivanie@floridasportfishing.com PROMOTIONS Rachel Genoun marketing@floridasportfishing.com
TELEVISION
SR. EDITOR/DIR. OF PHOTOGRAPHY J.P. Caldwell jp@floridasportfishing.tv
CONTACT
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING P.O. Box 5089 Lighthouse Point, FL 33074 954.942.7261 info@floridasportfishing.com SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES 877.227.9617 fsfmag.com NEWSSTAND DISTRIBUTION Curtis Circulation REPRINTS Wright’s Reprints 877.652.5295
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©2016. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. Disclaimer: Florida Sport Fishing will not be held liable for injuries incurred while partaking in activities described herein, or for claims made against products or services provided by advertisers.
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RADAR
REDEFINED Solid-State Doppler Tracking It’s the comfort of knowing you are safe. It’s Doppler Radar echoes changing color, showing which targets are a threat to you. It’s instant tracking of up to 100 moving targets. It’s Furuno’s Bird Mode tracking birds to find the best fishing grounds. It’s the “NXT” innovation in Radar, the all-new DRS4D-NXT Solid-State Doppler Radar for NavNet TZtouch & TZtouch2.
Target AnalyzerTM function, facilitated by Doppler technology, immediately alerts you to targets (displayed in red) that pose a threat to your vessel. Simultaneously track up to 100 moving targets, displaying their speed & course vectors.
RezBoostTM beam sharpening displays higher resolution targets, similar to those from an open array antenna.
DRS4D-NXT - 24” Solid-State Doppler Radar The innovation in Radar
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Checks & Balances Pending Law Would Curb On-The-Water Stops STAFF REPORT EVERY WEEKEND WHENEVER I’M GOING FISHING, no matter where I am on the ICW or offshore I cannot help but notice all sorts of law enforcement agencies doing their thing on the water. What I mean by “thing” is that it seems like any agency, be it federal, local or state, can stop you while boating. What is the reasoning behind this and what jurisdictions does each have? — William Miller
12
As a nation of laws, citizens must adhere to certain jurisdictions’ covenants whether they overlap or not. On land, the use of “probable cause” can have you pulled over in your car if a headlight is out, among a host of other criteria. In essence, probable cause gives the officer or agent in question an opening with which to exploit and investigate. Most if not all boaters and anglers feel comfortable that law enforcement is doing their due diligence keeping us safe and earning our tax dollars, and that random checks are the best deterrent to abusing fisheries and enforcing boating regulations on the water. What can be a nuisance is overzealousness on the part of agencies while making a
HAVE A QUESTION? FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
relaxing day on the water not relaxing at all. Legalese can be very confusing, especially when you have competing interests involved. Local ordinances, state statutes and federal codes all swim about with respective enforcement agencies doing their very best to uphold these as they apply to us. Not only that, but the terms Baseline, State Seaward Boundaries, Territorial Sea, Contiguous Zone and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and what each comprises may make the uninitiated angler want to dump his/her outfits into one of these jurisdictional zones of water. But don’t fret just yet; it’s good to know what these mean and why. Briefly, baseline boundaries encompass
the dividing line where land meets the ocean. State seaward boundaries here in Florida extend 9-nautical miles out in the Gulf and 3-nautical miles out into the Atlantic. The territorial sea consists of an area from the baseline beyond to 12-nautical miles where the contiguous zone picks up and extends further to 24-nautical miles. At 12-nautical miles, the exclusive economic zone overlaps and continues on to 200-nautical miles. These become important given the various jurisdictional agencies tasked with law enforcement respective of these zones. Federal Department of Homeland Security agents and the United States Coast Guard can board your vessel upon any waterway over which the United States has jurisdiction in light of the zones comprising the territorial sea all the way to the margins of the EEZ considering their collective mission in keeping us safe. For our purposes, at the baseline local and state authorities can stop you while on the water for seemingly no apparent reason, at the moment. As of writing, legislation being undertaken by state Rep. Rich Workman, R-Melbourne, an avid boater, will revise and specify what agencies such as Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, county deputies and municipal police departments consider probable cause to accost you on the water. For FWC, their present mandate has to do with boat occupants seemingly engaged in highly regulated activities such as fishing. Currently, FWC officers can conduct random fisheries inspections with no questions asked. These checks are vital to deterring illegal fishing, and this new bill continuing through the legislative process won’t change FWC officers’ abilities to randomly check vessels that have been engaged in fishing. The proposed law (House Bill 703), if passed, would take effect July 1, 2016, revising state law relating to reckless or careless operation of a vessel, thus requiring law enforcement to need probable cause for stopping vessels or performing random safety inspections.
Submit your comment, question or concern to editor@floridasportfishing.com. If we use your submission, you will receive a Florida Sport Fishing swag pack.
MAY / JUNE 2016
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PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/IVAN CHOLAKOV
Ask The Experts
Gear Guide XTRATUF + Pelagic 12’’ Legacy Boot Website: pelagicgear.com MSRP: $99.00
Specs 100% waterproof Seamless construction
With the need of being surefooted but stylish, XTRATUF and Pelagic have joined forces with their limited edition Legacy 12” boot with the famed Pelagic dorado print adorned on the inner lining, showing when the upper boot is folded down—a common practice in warm weather locations where anglers still want to keep their feet dry. Triple-dipped to ensure waterproofing, two color preferences are available: yellow- or blue-banded around the boots’ lower circumference with matching inner lining. XTRATUF’s signature chevron outsole design is proven to keep your feet firmly planted in pitching seas.
Retract-a-Rack
Overhead Storage Solution Website: retract-a-rack.com MSRP: $299.99
Specs Available in black or white Limited warranty
Gear storage in the garage or tackle room has taken on a new form in terms of a patented retractable overhead rack. Meant to keep precious rod and reel outfits out of harm’s way, this rack should be mounted to ceilings of 8- and 11-feet in height. Designed with auto-retracting pneumatic gas shocks that lock in the down position, this innovative rack stores up to eight outfits and features all-metal construction for enhanced durability during years of heavy use. Mounting is easy with simple tools.
Troll-Master
Hydrodynamic Line Release Website: troll-master.com MSRP: $18.00
Specs Two tension options Ideal for salt and freshwater
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FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
Available in light and heavy tension models, these hydrodynamic fishing line release clips were engineered to reduce water resistance when presenting baits off a downrigger. Minimizing turbulence allows for cleaner bait and lure presentation when trolling with a downrigger, where the slightest hum or vibration will deter nearby game fish. Tough plastic design mitigates wear and reduces cracking. Recessed tabs depress and open jaw for the insertion of line. Comes with cable crimped into clip and snap at opposite end.
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Gear Guide Techniice
Signature Series Ice Box Website: techniice.com MSRP: $294.00 -$529.00
Specs 25-year warranty Seven models of various quart sizes
The all-new Techniice Signature Series coolers provide outstanding ice-keeping ability and structural strength tested under the intense heat of the Australian outback. Construction comprises a 3.5-in. thick lid and 3.9-in. walls injected with premium PU multi-compound insulation. Featuring marine-grade rope and notched handles, this bevy of an ice box is surprisingly mobile. Locking stainless steel latches and corrosion-resistant hinges secure the lid against inadvertent opening and weathering. The 2-in. diameter drain allows for ice remnants and water to drain free of obstruction.
Penn
Clash 8000 Website: pennfishing.com MSRP: $259.95
Specs 4.7:1 gear ratio 30 lb. max drag
Dura-Gear technology enables the new Clash 8000 spinning reel a longer lasting gear train, with 9 sealed stainless steel bearings that keep everything moving smoothly and in line. A full metal body removes twisting with higher drag pressure while a heavy-duty aluminum bail is thick to the touch. The Leveline Oscillation System provides for superior line management along with a braid-ready spool. Cool black metallic composition with enlarged knob on the handle speak to the no-nonsense mission for which this spinning reel was purposed.
Monster 3X Paddle-X
Website: monster3xusa.com MSRP: $6.79
Specs Five color selections 3¾-in. length
Try stretching this artificial swim bait the length of your arm and it still won’t snap into pieces. Designed to be the strongest, toughest and most elastic soft plastic on the market, this durable paddletail was developed in Brazil amongst the harsh territory of the Amazon Basin and the relentless predators that call the region home. Rigged weedless or with a jighead, the options and target species are numerous. Keep from excessive heat and sun exposure, and don’t mix with other plastics to safeguard from damage.
FSFMAG.COM
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FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
Port St. Joe, FL 850-229-1100 www.ShopBWO.com
FIND YOUR COSTAS HERE: www.shopbwo.com
Pro’s Tip
Potluck
When approaching suspended fish, boat position is critical considering even an angler’s shadow may cause a blowout.
ACROSS SHALLOW WATER ARENAS STATEWIDE, lush grass flats harbor incredible inshore action for a variety of species including redfish, seatrout, snook, tarpon, bonefish, permit and much more. Basically every fish that swims state waters at one time or another visits grass flats during a period of its lifecycle.
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However, intermittently scattered across these fertile underwater jungles are deep potholes, troughs and barren patches of sand that disrupt the otherwise swaying fields of vegetation. What’s special about these specific features amongst such expansive shallows is that game fish strategically use these to migrate, hunt and hunker down. All shallow water inhabitants in Florida are influenced by the tide, but how, when and why they react to prevailing conditions has a lot to do with your local surroundings and the velocity of the tide. In northern Florida, where tides can exceed 6-feet, anglers can predict where redfish will stage during particular tides, as they hold and pass through the same
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
points, pockets, depressions and potholes day after day, year after year. However with such a large movement of water, and two high and low tides a day, the action here unfolds in a hurry. Along the Gulf Coast, from the Florida Keys north to Apalachicola, anglers experience a mixed tide where there’s an unequal variation in the height of high and low tides. Sometimes mixed tides result in two tidal swings each day, while on others there may only be one, or a unique combination of both. Along grass flats of Tampa Bay, Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound it takes much longer for a tidal cycle to complete, and as a result fish will gravitate to specific features on the flats for much greater periods of time.
When fishing the flats there are numerous factors to contend with, but in theory high tides scatter fish and low tides concentrate them. During high water periods redfish and seatrout will find comfort along overhanging mangrove shorelines and also on the tops of flats. As a high tide begins to recede game fish will begin to move toward troughs and potholes on the flats that provide slightly deeper water for them to sink into. Low tide is like a reset button and the cycle begins again. As the water starts coming in, the fish will leave potholes and indentations on the flats as they return to typical high-water haunts. When you locate a pothole or depression on the flats it’s best to keep your distance. The fish that typically reside in potholes are spooky and an errant cast that rips across their body, the shadow of an angler, or poling too close will certainly cause a blowout. Given good lighting conditions you should
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Tips for Picking Apart a Flat’s Defining Features STAFF REPORT
Pro’s Tip
be able to spot fish holding in the vicinity ready to ambush small fish or crustaceans that make the mistake of cruising across the barren bottom of a pothole. Redfish and seatrout can often times be spotted hovering right over the sand, or along the edges of the grass ready to strike. Although grass flats regenerate, and grass comes and goes during certain seasons, Google Earth satellite imagery enables anglers to analyze flats across the entire state and closely inspect areas that hold features that might attract the game fish you seek. Once on the water you’ll want to closely inspect the areas for the physical characteristics desired. While the computer and
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FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
GPS chartplotter will point you in the right direction, you’ll really become in tune with your local flats by making scouting trips where you’re more focused on learning than actually catching fish. Make note of different potholes and depressions, and come back on different tides. Soon you’ll have a firm understanding and be able to better predict where fish will stage during any tidal period or season.
Unfortunately, novice boaters and those with a disregard for the habitat often run too shallow and rip expansive stretches of prop scars across once pristine flats. While the negligence is upsetting, these irregularities provide thoroughfares for game fish to traverse the shallows. While we certainly don’t condone prop scars, it’s a great example of how even the smallest contour changes can attract life in areas where there’s such subtle variation in bottomscape. When you find fish holding in potholes you’ll want to cast beyond the hole and let your offering sink to the bottom. Slowly hop through the grass until you reach the sand-filled hole and let your bait sink to the bottom. Short hops and twitches with a ¼ oz. gold spoon or soft plastic jerkbait rigged weedless with a weighted worm hook will earn the attention you seek. To outsiders, flats fishing might seem like a simplified task, but educated inshore anglers know it’s much more of a science. Potholes and depressions within the flats can vary greatly in size, depth and definition, but it’s not all about their size, rather the delicate difference it brings to the surrounding bottom. While it can take time to master, learning the subtleties of the flats and those clues that trigger game fish to feed will definitely make you a more well rounded angler.
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PHOTOGRAPHY: (TOP) JASON ARNOLD
Trout prefer clean water and here it’s important your initial presentation isn’t rushed. You may only get one shot.
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Baitfish Profiles ...the truth is that there’s no shortage of bait-holding structures in the area and anglers need not search far to find schooling fish. place for decades. With this longevity comes the growth and consistent refuge that attracts bait. Biscayne Channel Light, known as Bug Light, was the most famous spot to make bait in the area. It was loaded with life but recently decommissioned and removed as a result of Coast Guard initiatives claiming “degradation to its structure.” While Bug Light has since been removed, anglers searching the area and studying
The Grind
their sounder will come across schooling herring, pilchard and sardines in the same vicinity over broken bottom and various artificial reefs.
Beat the Baitfishing Blues in the Shadow of South Beach STAFF REPORT THE SPORT FISHING HISTORY AND HERITAGE surrounding Miami is hard to top, with legendary boat builders, captains, mates and world-class fisheries all developing right off the coast. But it all starts with the bait that fuels the fisheries, and for decades anglers have been visiting the iconic artificial reefs just beyond the neon glow of South Beach in this pursuit.
After the removal of Bug Light, captains were forced to look elsewhere. With this being said, the East Range Marker—more commonly referred to as Bent Range—has become the go-to. Here you’ll find pretty much every baitfish species that exists in Florida waters, ranging from pinfish and pilchard, to goggle eye, threadfin herring, Spanish sardines, cigar minnows, ballyhoo, sand perch, speedo, blue runner and more. Unlike Bug Light, East Range Marker was recently
22
and visiting anglers both novice and pro scout
commissioning and removal in light of Miami’s
vide the food chain that feeds epic migrations of
a wide assortment of navigational aids, buoys,
Government Cut deep-dredging project to ac-
sailfish, blackfin tuna, kingfish and more. With-
range markers and additional underwater ob-
commodate expansions to the Port of Miami and
out such abundant supplies of forage species,
structions in the vicinity of Government Cut.
updating of navigational markers and beacons.
these prized game fish would simply continue
Making bait here can be easy at times, but con-
While you’ll see boats congregated around
swimming along the coast with no real reason
ditions change hourly and the action you seek
the most well-known FADs, the truth is that
to stop. It’s as simple as no baitfish, no game fish.
will be largely dependent on the current, wa-
there’s no shortage of bait-holding structures
Rain or shine, day or night, anglers are bait-
ter clarity and temperature as various species
in the area and anglers need not search far to
fishing off Miami every day of the year. Some
search for optimal conditions within their re-
find schooling fish. There’s a spar buoy just north
make routine pilgrimages to Miami to capital-
spective comfort zones.
of bent range that is worth a look too, as are
ize on the stellar opportunities any way they
With experience you’ll have a greater un-
the navigational markers southwest of Fowey
can, whether a long boat ride, or trailer set-up
derstanding of where to look and even recog-
Rocks Light. Additionally, you’ll find a variety of
and baitwell system equipped with an air pump
nize which particular species you are looking
baitfish inside Government Cut along the pilot
for tactical strikes. From Palm Beach to Islamo-
at on your sounder. However, politicians and
boat and ferry docks on MacArthur Causeway.
rada, anglers know what Miami is really about
government sectors are making it more diffi-
No matter where you hunt for bait, tidal move-
and often travel great distances to load up on
cult for both recreational anglers and charter
ment is key considering not much goes on dur-
fresh live bait to pen and cure for future fishing.
operations by trying to remove these ultimate
ing slack water.
No matter where they are coming from, local
bait-aggregating structures that have been in
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
Many boats choose to anchor along the
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PHOTOGRAPHY: DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM
saved considering it too, was planned for deIt’s these incredible reef structures that pro-
Baitfish Profiles
Hanging a frozen chum block off the transom will excite nearby forage, but it’s only effective when there’s noticeable current.
coastal range markers, but others feel it is best
the thinner mono branch lines will break under the stress of these bigger baitfish. Additionally, the area will at times be inundated
to keep moving to stay on top of bait schools hookers to keep baits as healthy as possible.
ters, so you can expect to go through a severe
tures. Frozen ground chum helps draw fish to
When fishing for herring, cigar minnow, pil-
amount of bait rigs.
the surface, and CHIRP sonar will reveal those
chard and sardines, you’ll want to utilize #6
Last but not least, your efforts will only be
holding below. With experience, you’ll be able
sabiki rigs and try a mix of green and red quills.
valiant if you have a place to store all of the cap-
to pattern the different species of baitfish you
Sometimes you’ll see the fish on your sonar but
tured bait. A 100-gallon round well plumbed
see on the screen. If this all seems like too much
they simply won’t bite, and this is when experi-
above deck is the absolute best way to keep
and you’re just looking to buy bait, Miami can
enced anglers break out the fluorocarbon sabiki
bait happy and in a circling pattern without
handle that too.
rigs. Ballyhoo need an additional temptation to
overcrowding, but not an option for everyone.
catch on hook and line, with small squid strips
Whenever possible, separate species and limit their handling as much as possible. Herring and
and shrimp doing the trick.
many tournament anglers visit the markers to
For larger blue runners and speedos you’ll
sardines in particular are very fragile and won’t
catch and pen baits for future use. Either way,
need to use bigger bait rigs—the smaller hooks
live long out of water or if bounced off the deck
the best approach is to utilize quill rigs and de-
designed for scale baits will straighten out and
on their way into the well.
SPANISH SARDINE
BLUE RUNNER
BALLYHOO
GOGGLE EYE
PILCHARD
PINFISH
One of the most difficult baitfish species to keep alive, not to mention locate, Spanish sardines represent the absolute best offshore live bait and are readily available around the structures off Miami…that is if you know where and when to look.
When a runner strikes your ultralight bait outfit and immediately rips drag you’ll know it’s not a stringer of precious scale baits. Excellent offerings to entice smoker king mackerel, runners are also easy to keep alive in a dockside pen.
A wintertime species seen across much of South Florida, ballyhoo react to a soaking chum bag but don’t take well to captivity of any sort. Since they are challenging to catch on hook and line, ballyhoo are best captured with a cast net and used immediately.
While anglers primarily target goggle eye during ideal moon phases under the cover of darkness, those who search the shallow markers and patch reefs during pre-dawn hours will catch mixed stringers of goggle eye and scale baits.
Most prevalent in the summer but available year-round, scaled sardines are savagely attacked by nearly everything that swims. Fortunately, pilchard are plentiful and live chumming with these prime offerings ignites surface boilers of trophy blackfin tuna.
Great baits for bottom fishing and casting to surface cruising tarpon, cobia and more, pinfish rise to chum slicks near Miami range markers in huge numbers and can at times be a nuisance when searching out more prized forage species like herring and sardines.
PHASES OF THE MOON FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
5/6/16 NEW MOON
5/13/16
FIRST QUARTER
MAY / JUNE 2016
5/21/16 FULL MOON
5/29/16 THIRD QUARTER
6/4/16 NEW MOON
6/12/16
FIRST QUARTER
6/20/16 FULL MOON
6/27/16
THIRD QUARTER
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BIOLOGICALS: DIANE ROME PEEBLES PHOTOGRAPHY: DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM (2)
While charter boats stop off at these permanent FADs on the way in and out of daily trips,
24
with mackerel, bluefish and more toothy crit-
that may stray 20- to 80-yards off area struc-
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Rigging Station
Offshore Success in 4 Easy Steps
CAPTAIN MIKE GENOUN
DAISY CHAINS ARE NOTHING NEW. Blue water anglers have been pulling the fish-catching concoctions for decades and with great success. As a matter of fact, because of the popularity of these multi-lure presentations offshore lure manufacturers offer multiple versions of daisy chains in a bewildering array of lure styles and color combinations, based on geographic region, target game fish and prevalent forage species.
26
Proof of concept is verified globally as every offshore charter boat captain worth his weight in salt includes at least one daisy chain in his standard trolling spread.
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
The obvious advantage to pulling daisy chains is the ability to greatly enhance your trolling profile with a reduced number of lines in the water, as each daisy chain typically
consists of three teaser baits followed by a larger, or varying style or color lure. Additionally, the trailing lure rigged farther back than the rest mimics wounded, easy-to-catch prey and triggers an instinctive reactionary strike that might not have otherwise come together. For this reason, I prefer the same fakes with the fourth and final hook bait of a completely different color. When fishing South Florida you’ll find daisy chains to be most productive when specifically targeting blackfin and skipjack tuna. Aggressive little tunny (often misidentified as bonito) jump all over chains, too. Of course, you can never rule out dolphin, sailfish and
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Leading the Way
Daisy chains are simple to construct with minimal effort and greatly enhance any trolling spread.
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...expect the unexpected by preparing with terminal tackle and solid connections suitable for getting the job done with much bigger fish than anticipated. wahoo, which all fall victim to chains so expect the unexpected by preparing with terminal tackle and solid connections suitable for getting the job done with much bigger fish than anticipated. In any case one thing is undeniable: if you’re looking for a proven tactic to stay connected on the troll, daisy chains work wonders. It’s important to consider that football-shaped pelagic predators primarily consume finger-long baitfish in local waters, so experience on the
offshore scene will prove that you’ll see the greatest level of success pulling daisy chains rigged with small- to mid-size lures along the outer edges of your trolling pattern. Regarding trolling speed, don’t hesitate pushing the throttle to 10-knots. The increased speed will help cover more ground. And trust me, as long as the combination of rigged baits and lures in the pattern is swimming properly the target species will have no trouble keeping up.
While you can experiment with spacing and length, most predator chains feature four or five enticements that are rigged in-line.
MATERIALS (1) 200 lb. barrel swivel (7 FT.) 150 lb. Momoi X-Tra Hard Leader Material (1) 7/0 – 9/0 O’Shaugnessy Hook (4) feathers/chuggers/bullets (Ballyhood Tuna Tacos, Iland Trackers and C&H Mini Turbo Slammers are all excellent options) Rigging Beads Crimps/Crimping Tool Chaffing Material
28
STEP 1
Crimp barrel swivel to leading edge of leader material
STEP 2
Starting at the opposite end of leader, slide the components on in the following order, being sure to slide lures on head first: lure…bead…crimp; lure…bead… crimp; lure…bead…crimp; lure…bead…crimp
STEP 3
Using the fourth and final crimp, connect hook to trailing end of leader
STEP 4
Starting 12-in. below barrel swivel, compress remaining three crimps at 18-in. intervals, leaving 36-in. between the third and final trailing lure
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
PHOTOGRAPHY: DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM (2)
PROCESS
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Solid state radar is an invaluable tool for fishermen searching the sky for hunting seabirds.
Clear Advantage
Doppler-Effect Radar Provides a Breakthrough for Recreational Boaters STAFF REPORT SPORT FISHING HAS BEEN VERY LUCKY to be the recipient of technological advancement through the decades. From the development of ultra-thin braided lines to lures that mimic erratic baitfish, anglers are always trying their hand at innovation.
of severe weather, this specialized enhancement is now available to all. The noteworthy difference being Doppler-effect radar transmits a signal to a desired target that when received back notes the target’s motion through alteration of the return frequency. This tech-
object in path of said waves. These are then
nology also helps with the filtering of extra-
ufacturers are also trying to help you perfect
received by the receiver radar, which will pro-
neous sea clutter on the water.
technique and tactics, with recreational radar
cess these received signals to determine the
one such arena where refinements once sole-
properties of an object.
The variation processes highly accurate measurements or tracking the convergence of a
ly used for military exploits and weather fore-
Use of radar in the marine environment
casting have now found their way to your T-Top.
measures the bearing and distance of ships
target’s speed relative to the radar. What this means is that a cluster of thunderstorms off
Developed in the 1930s, Radio Detection
to stem collisions, aiding in navigation and for
the port bow will be shown in relation to their
and Ranging was introduced as a military ap-
the fixing of position in relation to land mass-
formation and echo trails as they move off the
plication and given great prominence dur-
es and other features such as islands, range
Everglades. Now, note a pair of frigates making
ing the Battle of Britain in 1940, which gave
markers or buoys. Also, weather formations
their way toward your vessel in on-screen red
the Royal Air Force the slight advantage over
are noted in their relation to your vessel and
with an enhanced echo trail behind. Though
steady streams of German bombers coming
vector utilizing the same waves.
at the moment of passing above as they in-
off mainland Europe. In essence, radar is an
In years past, recreational marine radar uti-
object-detection system, employing radio
lized a high-power magnetron that was extreme-
spect your trolling spread, the blotted feature
waves that determine angle, distance and
ly inefficient as it pulsed across a wide band of
What is common and shared amongst the
velocity of a target or object.
the frequency. The newest solid-state radars
newest product releases from the industry’s
denoting these expert hunters turns green.
Detection of aircraft, motor vehicles, ves-
use a low-power transmitter that receives echo
leading manufacturers will excite as well as
sels and weather formations is now accom-
returns with greater amounts of data in regard
assist any angler in all locations.
plished by sending a continuous transmission
to distance and direction of targets.
Garmin’s Fantom in 4- and 6-foot open ar-
wave with linear increasing frequency—by
Like the sexy television meteorologist us-
rays features MotionScope, allowing the clean
way of transmit radar—that bounces off any
ing Doppler-effect radar to forecast the path
marking of a moving target in red with dark blue
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
JOURNAL // ONLINE // TELEVISION
PHOTOGRAPHY: (LEFT) DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM
30
Boat builders and marine electronics man-
10-second echo trails overlaid onto a screen chart. A pulse compression of 40W allows for
limited to 24 RPMs. NXT also puts into prac-
concise definition of that flock of terns dipping
tice a Fast Target Tracking
on the surface against the tapestry of chart and
Function, quickly display-
other features. Fantom’s target detection rang-
ing the speed and targeted
es from 20-feet to 72-miles within two rota-
course of any approaching
tion speeds. The 4-foot array retails for $7,000.
vessel given the Doppler
Furuno’s NXT (displayed below) is built as
advancement. Furuno’s
a 24-in. radome featuring the Doppler-based
exclusive RezBoost lends
Target Analyzer Function. Targets in green on
a sharpness equivalent to
screen are close to stationary or moving away
a 2° beamwidth that solid-
from your boat, while targets in red are closing
ifies target detail and minimiz-
in at a speed of more than 3-knots. This ac-
es clutter. Dinghies, jet skiers and
quisition and trail marking takes place quick-
kayakers paddling close to the bulkhead are
ly considering target detection happens with
all represented and clearly separated. Range
every 25W-powered sweep. Usual speed is
is tasked at 36-nautical miles, but dual-range
Simrad’s Halo employs serious pulse com-
measured at 48 RPMs, with dual-range mode
mode limits this to 12-nautical miles. Simple
pression to provide a mix of close- and long-
to install, retail price is listed at $2,600.
range target detection, definition and avoidance of clutter as a result of beam-sharpened target separation control. Range is up to 72-nautical miles with a high speed of 48 RPMs, as dual-range capabilities keep you apprised of collision hazards nearby and weather cells in the distance. Five separate modes (e.g., custom, harbor, offshore, weather or bird) give users the ability to tailor their preferences for those features they’re most interested or the environments fished. The Halo 3-foot open array retails for $4,500. With the state of technology as it is, any edge an angler can get toward his quest and quarry should not be ignored. And if that edge also provides a clear sense of safety on the water, then so be it no matter the price in dollars. Being up to date also means being on the fish.
More Than Design The differences between open array and radome radar configurations are more than just simple design. Open arrays have the widest antennas and a narrow beamwidth between 3.5° and 1.1°, which enhances range and focus for determining the smallest of targets. Expense may be of concern here. When space and budget are limited, the radome is best considering an 18- to 24-in. domed device. Resolution is good though
31
smaller targets in close proximity might get clumped together given a horizontal beamwidth between 3.5° and 7°.
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CHART: NOAA
MODERN DAY PIRATES Bahamas and Back in 18 Hours or Less CAPTAIN STEVE DOUGHERTY
36
What’s even more exciting is that a mere 60 miles across the Gulf Stream is the archipelago of The Bahamas, where the ocean really comes alive. While Florida is so close to the islands, it’s the powerful currents of the Gulf Stream that separate and define our fisheries. I was fortunate to have first been introduced to the nearby haunt as a child, tagging along on my father’s fishing trips to chase seasonal marlin, wahoo or tuna. Back in the day there were no bottom fish regulations and we would bring home giant hauls of snapper and grouper, and eat like kings for a year. Becoming intimate with the ocean and crystal clear waters of the islands at such a young age was both a blessing and
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
curse. Now, I’m more addicted than ever before and try to go to The Bahamas as much as possible, even if only for a few hours at a time. Therein lies the problem. My friends and I know what exists on the other side. In fact, in the amount of time it would take us to drive to Miami in rush hour traffic we could be sitting at the fuel dock at West End. Given the platform and fuel budget, why spend a steamy Saturday afternoon hoping for that one big fish in home waters when a little extra effort will put you in the zone for real action. We’re not afraid to get up at 4 a.m., and we’re fortunate our wives are cool with us coming home after midnight. The Bahamas are perfect for family
vacations and guys-only fishing trips, but as much as I enjoy spending a weeklong sabbatical in the tropical paradise, I also enjoy tactical strike missions that last mere hours until our limit is met and it’s time to ride home into the sunset with rum drink in hand. As is always the case when crossing the Gulf Stream you never know what you might expect and one must always be ready for anything. One such occasion we
We’re not afraid to get up at 4 a.m., and we’re fortunate our wives are cool with us coming home after midnight. were steaming toward West End to clear customs and take on fuel but were only about half way across the Gulf Stream. With a handful of terns picking on the surface and a frigate bird cruising high in
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LIVING IN SOUTH FLORIDA CAN BE A LOT to handle sometimes, with intense heat and humidity, exotic invaders, hurricanes and strange news stories common occurrences. But, amongst these threats there’s something that keeps the locals happy to stay put. Just a mile off the beach we can reach depths of 100-feet where a multitude of seasonal migrations take place.
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FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
fast, but covering 300 or more miles in a day, aboard an open center console is nothing out of the ordinary for us. It’s certainly not for everyone, and it must be done with extreme caution. Though, thanks to today’s high-performance center consoles it’s absolutely feasible. While we started making day trips in a 34 SeaVee with twin 300s, the newest breed of center consoles with triple and quad configurations make the adventure even more pleasant. Perhaps the most important aspect to a successful Bahamian day trip is calm weather. We’ve done it in rough seas, but covering such large expanses of open water and filling the fishbox on limited time can be challenging under perfect conditions, let
alone 3- to 4-footers. Trust me when I tell you we’ve had multiple occasions where we’ve turned around halfway because it’s simply not worth it. Dreams can be crushed in a hurry, but when it all comes together it makes things that much sweeter. First and foremost, it’s critical your vessel is outfitted with all the appropriate safety gear that’s well maintained and easily accessible. Next, it’s imperative you check in with Bahamian customs and immigration to obtain the necessary fishing licenses and cruising permits. Not clearing is not an option, with serious fines and
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38
the sky it looked just right, but we were a long way from Tuna City. While coming off plane to take a closer look we watched a 50-pound yellowfin sky out of the water and everyone went racing into action. We set a drift, released a couple dozen sacrificial offerings and 30 minutes later we had eight trophy yellowfin onboard. Big smiles and a bloody boat… and it was barely 9 a.m. As quick as it started, the rising sun sent the tuna deep and the birds went on their way. We were floating in the middle of the ocean wondering what just happened. We might be a little messed up in the head volunteering to put in so much time and effort into something that’s over so
Whether trolling the corner or live baiting in the channel, shooting across the ‘Stream for a day trip puts anglers in reach of big fish.
40
seizures the result of Americans “poaching” Bahamian waters. Florida anglers in search of a day trip bonanza are limited by daylight and fuel, although several options exist depending on your port-of-call and seasonal targets. With an official port-of-entry 50- to 70-miles from a number of South Florida inlets, a two-hour boat ride puts you in reach of world-class fisheries. During the winter, given a window of calm seas, anglers in Palm Beach and northern Broward County make routine pilgrimages to West End to capitalize on the wahoo fishing along Little Bahama Bank. Time the tide right with calm conditions to make the trip and you could be trolling Memory Rock with a limit of ‘hoo by lunchtime and have the opportunity to move on and target queen snapper before heading home prior to dusk.
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
Another option, but even more of an adventure, is to cross the bank after clearing customs at West End and trolling for wahoo off Walker’s Cay. From here, crews follow the bank north and west until it’s time to head home. We’ve done this route before in a single day, and at around 350-miles round trip it’s not a venture for the faint of heart. This time of year it’s a different pattern and everyone has tuna fever on their minds. Lucaya is tuna town and ground
After experiencing a yellowfin tuna blitz not far from home, you won’t think twice about covering 200 or more miles in a single day to get on the bite again.
zero for the action, but many daytrippers still check-in at West End when chasing tuna. From here, the call of the wild takes them east around Grand Bahama and deep into the Northwest Providence Channel. By checking in at West End anglers are cleared to fish and hunt birds from the
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Given the platform and fuel budget, why spend a steamy Saturday afternoon hoping for that one big fish in home waters when a little extra effort will put you in the zone for real action.
moment they leave the dock. The customs and immigration process also dictates departure time from Florida, with most Bahamian offices opening at 9 a.m. island time, although some provide on-call service during the weekend. One way you can fast track the process is to have all of the necessary documents filled out prior to your arrival.
And, don’t think tuna won’t bite in the middle of the day because we’ve had epic action with the sun high in the sky. During the summer when tuna schools are thick in the channel and at the corner anglers are afforded the opportunity to fish until nearly 8 p.m., when the sun finally sets beyond the horizon. While we don’t
recommend running home at full speed under the cover of darkness, there’s nothing unsafe about cruising back at night. And, the best tuna fishing typically occurs just
41
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FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
The long runs don’t always pay off and on some days the fish can be uncooperative, but with the right crew it’s always a good time visiting The Bahamas if only for a few hours.
tomorrow would likely be a lay day anyway. Go big or go home! Additionally, with a box full of fresh ahi it’s best to get it home so it can be processed and eaten fresh. With no bait leftover and no room in the fishbox there’s no reason to stay the night. We always leave the dock with great expectations, but the truth is we’ve had trips where we’ve only caught one tuna, and others where we easily caught our limit of big
fish and left them biting. Everyday is a new day and you simply have to experience it. Spending a full day on a boat isn’t for everyone, and it’s important you pick your crew wisely. Plenty of ice, food and drinks to keep you comfortable being in the sun for a full lunar phase will make it more enjoyable, as will a couple of bean bags. When it all comes together, your aching body will be well worth the monumental effort.
PHOTOGRAPHY: DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM (2)
moments before sunset. After all of the effort put forth to make a day trip successful, we don’t leave until our limit is met or the sun has set. For the most part, tuna fishing in The Bahamas is all about live bait. Truth be told, day trips chasing yellowfin are a perfect match because after a full day of scouting tuna schools and live chumming you probably won’t have much bait remaining so
42
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
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PHOTOGRAPHY: OFF AXIS PRODUCTION/SHUTTERSTOCK
Local Waters are Littered with Scores of Promising Structure STAFF REPORT
In addition to age-old shipwrecks, sunken merchant ships, commercial vessels and downed airplanes, there’s no telling how many lost and missing ships, and those sunken on purpose under the cover of darkness really exist.
FOR MORE THAN 6,000 YEARS, Florida has seen a flurry of activity as a result of its incredible access to the water. From Native American dugout canoes and Spanish galleons filled with New World wealth to Ernest Hemingway searching the Florida Straits for German U-boats, this peninsula is a convergence for anything and everything nautical.
46
And with this rather large, essential sand spit comes shallow shoals, jagged reefs and narrow channels that made navigation hazardous. Lend gale-force winds, strong currents as well as indiscriminate hurricanes, all without the aid of modern technology, and the combination becomes deadly. With European powers seeking quicker sea routes to Asia, they happened upon the New World and the wealth within. The Spanish, English and French were the main players here, with orphaned pirates preying upon these nations’ fleets as they spirited this newly found wealth back across the Atlantic. The first known European to find La Florida, the Spaniard Ponce de Leon set foot upon what was to become St. Augustine in
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
1513, the oldest city in the United States. Sailing due south off what was thought an island, he would encounter the Keys and Las Tortugas before making way into what would later comprise Tampa. Following de Leon’s initial exploration, more Spanish explorers arrived going from Tampa up to the Panhandle. Hernando de Soto came, landing at Tampa Bay in 1539 before settling for five months near Tallahassee. Arriving later was Tristan de Luna y Arellano, who established a short-lived colony at Pensacola Bay in 1559. It was here that a hurricane sank all but a few supply ships, thus beginning a legacy of shipwrecks that would later dot both coastlines until the modern-day sinking of
derelict vessels, trains and tankers to create or add to existing artificial reef systems. The list of explorers who came and went is long and could take an entire issue to rundown. There are also those vessels sank by German U-boat wolfpacks during WWII throughout the Gulf and Atlantic, and numerous lesser-known ships that ran afoul of weather and ended their courses at the bottom of the sea. As well, the state of Florida and the federal government are eager to assist in the creation of additional artificial reefs by scuttling decommissioned vessels. Good for the angler is the amount of underwater structure found in close proximity to Florida’s extensive coastline. In addition to age-old shipwrecks, sunken merchant ships, commercial vessels and downed airplanes, there’s no telling how many lost and missing ships, and those sunken on purpose under the cover of darkness really exist. Fortunately, all provide a haven and critical habitat, attracting a host of predator and prey including demersal, mid-water and pelagic species. But finding appropriate structure
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and knowing how to fish the venue will require a certain amount of time, patience and learning throughout. For at least two hundred years, the federal government has been duly identifying and mapping not only underwater sites of historical importance but those areas deemed in need of protection from outside pressure such as fishing or diving. Old paper charts are best for locating wrecks and have since been passed down through generations of explorers, all the way to you, the recreational angler. Most if not all paper charts are created under the auspices of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
NOAA CHART ABBREVIATIONS Wreck showing any portion of hull
Dangerous Wreck
Wreck where masts are visible Wreck always dry Distributed remains of wreck Submerged wreck safe depth Pole or Tower Submerged wreck unsafe depth
Underwater hazard safe depth
with assistance from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. However, NOAA recently announced they would stop using the government printing and distribution system of paper charts originally adopted in 1861, but several certified printing agents have brought them back with different color palettes and a range of additional services. The structures within may or may not
be recorded on GPS systems, hence the need to refresh your map-reading skills in tackling those antiquated nautical charts collecting dust. Also, NOAA has an online “wrecks and obstructions database”
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47
The species encountered in your local area may vary, but smaller snapper, grunts, porgies and other fish that relate to the bottom typically hold tight along the down-current sides of structures to limit the expended energy needed to stem the current.
Successful wreck fishing requires a firm knowledge of currents, game fish habits and boat positioning, as well as the defining features of the ecosystem you’re targeting below.
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
“The 200-foot long iron sailing vessel came to rest on a sandy bottom in 130-feet of water with her bow pointing northeast at a heading of 42°. The trauma produced scattered and disarticulated features seen today.” Knowing key details like this prior to visiting a wreck site can provide huge benefits to anglers, and it will serve you well to print out some cheat sheets to reference what you see on your electronics. Once you are within range of a chosen wreck, approaching slowly is highly recommended allowing for observation of current and wind. Put the boat in neutral and make note of your bearing and speed in accordance with the structure below. It’s not uncommon to make twoto three-passes across a wreck site trying to gauge your plan of attack. When scouting and fishing wrecks, it’s
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PHOTOGRAPHY: (LEFT) FSF MAG
48
(wrecks.nauticalcharts.noaa.gov) that provides comprehensive and downloadable charts in PDF format. Wrecks on such charts are denoted by a variety of characters depending on many physical factors that ultimately enable safe approach and would-be anchoring options. Easy to understand, symbols showing wrecks with a portion of the hull showing; always dry; those that reside at safe or unsafe depths; wrecks inherently dangerous; masts that are visible or distributed wreck remains, all are framed and conveyed easily on some portion of the chart itself. In many cases, these same symbols translate to GPS chartplotters, so knowing what these mean is advantageous for safe operation on or near these sites. Also, the 35 counties that comprise the
Florida coastline all take part in artificial reef programs and most have associations dedicated toward the purpose of maintaining their respective sites. As well, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission provides exact GPS coordinates for over 2,500 state artificial reef sites. However, as much pressure as public wrecks and artificial structures see, it’s only the most educated anglers who find success by understanding the balance of structure and species in relation to current and wind, all while positioning your boat perfectly to get your baits where they need to be. Each structure is different, with fish holding in areas unique to the specific wreck or artificial structure. Knowing the shape and breadth of any wreck will help in your pursuit to entice these species from their comfortable surroundings and onto the hook. A quick Google search will reveal key details about many of the wrecks in your area.
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best to do so on days with light wind and minimal current. Strong currents require too much lead to reach bottom and as a result heavier leaders and main line, which make it harder to detect subtle strikes. Drifting is the preferred method in deep water, and although some choose to anchor, remember that a heavy anchor may damage the all-important ecosystem that has congregated around the wreck. If conditions permit, it’s critically important you anchor well up-current and scope line out once your anchor has set. Ideally, you’ll want to be directly up-current of the structure, or part of your chum stream will flow through barren water and bottom. If boats are already present atop a wreck, it’s understandable why anchoring might be frowned upon when you should simply fall in line with the drifting fleet. The species encountered in your local area may vary, but smaller snapper, grunts, porgies and other fish that relate to the bottom
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typically hold tight along the down-current sides of structures to limit the expended energy needed to stem the current. Pulling in tight under an overhanging piece of steel will help deflect the current and enable the smaller snapper to seamlessly hover in place. Larger mutton snapper also relate to the down-current sides, but these more significant predators often venture out into patches of open sand well behind a wreck. Yellowtail and mangrove snapper often sit directly on top of wrecks, which makes it challenging to present baits. On the opposing side of the wreck is where you’ll generally encounter the top tier predators that can swim circles around the structure with ease. Cobia, amberjack, African pompano and grouper often hold up-current of wrecks and feed on the first offerings presented. Traveling predators like sailfish, wahoo, kingfish, blackfin tuna and bonito will also congregate around area wrecks in deeper
water, albeit higher in the water column. The large structures deflect and change currents that not only attract, but disarray smaller forage species. Furthermore, the type of wreck and its material makeup also play a significant role in the type of predator that is more commonly attracted. Wrecks and structures with a higher profile off the bottom typically engage more mid-water predators like jack, permit, African pompano, cobia and blue runners, in addition to pelagics like wahoo and sailfish. Anglers statewide have found great success fishing around wrecks for decades, but with the latest multifunction displays equipped with CHIRP sonar units, probing the depths is now more of a science than ever before. No matter what unit you choose, it’s imperative you have a firm understanding of the features it provides. When fishing bottom structure you should always take advantage of “Bottom Lock” or “Zoom” functions, which let users control how much depth is measured from the bottom toward the surface. As consistent as wreck fishing can be, it’s important to never clean out a spot, rather bag a few and move on to the next one. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of sunken treasure off our fertile coast.
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PHOTOGRAPHY: (TOP) DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM
The variety and abundance of game fish patrolling the water column around local wrecks is unparalleled, with anglers encountering everything from tarpon, snook and flounder to snapper, grouper, jack and more.
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THE SEARCH FOR GREENER PASTURES C APTA I N M I K E G E N O U N
PHOTOGRAPHY: WILL DROST, (INSET) JASON ARNOLD
Although game fish typically relate to cleaner water of a color change, many dolphin have been captured on the green side of offshore edges and rips.
‘PHINATICAL
WITH CALM SEAS AND PLEASANT TEMPERATURES, spring is a prelude to the upcoming summer and jumpstarts peak dolphin season across South Florida. It’s during May and June when an increasing number of anglers head way over the horizon in search of angling glory.
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8-pounds constantly on the hunt for their next meal. Schoolies have an insatiable appetite because they burn so much energy and are perhaps the most prevalent class of dolphin. They are often referred to as “flippers” because it’s common practice to flip hooked fish over the gunnel and into an icy fishbox. “Gaffers” are next in hierarchy and tip the scales into the 20s. Always welcome, gaffers have been following prevailing currents for six- to eight-months and are well on their way to stardom. When the offshore bite leaves something to be desired it takes little more than a few quality fish to turn a dismal day into an exciting one with periods of intense action highlighted by impressive aerial displays hopefully resulting in bloody decks and fresh fillets for family and friends. Then, there is the crème de la crème—“slammers.” Slammer dolphin pin Boga Grips and are truly impressive fish that have been fortunate enough to evade the onslaught of
Dolphin aren’t always found directly underneath floating debris or circling birds and it’s best to troll a few wide patterns around areas of prominent life.
attacks from natural predators, not to mention relentless recreational and commercial fishing pressure throughout their range. Getting the best of slammer dolphin in our neck of the woods is far more difficult than it sounds. Remember, fish don’t get big by being dumb and while trophy-class dorado are plentiful across the Pacific where nutrient-rich forage is abundant, they aren’t exactly a dime a dozen outside local ports. Offshore anglers committed to finding dolphin beefy enough to sink a gaff into have to think big, which often means leaving biting fish in search of bigger biting fish—a cardinal sin in most fishing situations. The thing is if you’re killing time fooling around
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PHOTOGRAPHY: DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM
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While most fishing families are thrilled scoring three or four schoolies, ‘phin fanatics with sharpened skills often choose to spend their valuable time searching for quality fish worth talking about. How the pros weed through the dinks and consistently come out on top usually boils down to fundamentals. Dolphinfish fall in a number of general size categories. Infants barely longer than a forearm and no more than a month-old are referred to as “peanuts.” These tiny little green hornets swim in tightly knit packs and are relentlessly stalked by predatory sharks and billfish, not to mention having to deal with intense predation from their own kind. Cannibalism is actually the sole reason you never see adolescent dolphin swimming alongside their bigger brethren. “Schoolies” are next in the chain of command with ravenous packs of incredibly fastgrowing 24- to 30-inch fish weighing 3- to
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‘PHINATICAL
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with schoolies on light spinning gear around some sort of flotsam, chances are a pack of hunting gaffers are nowhere nearby, or the smaller fish would transition from predator to prey mode and magically disappear into the depths. Unlike schoolies that often swim in highdensity packs, slammers are more solitary hunters usually accompanied by only one or two equally impressive fish. While a bull and his cow may pop up in your trolling or kite spread just about anywhere and at anytime, the warm Gulf Stream waters encompassing our offshore arena are the most likely stretch where you’ll cross paths with fish of this stature. The same applies for the Loop Current meandering way out in the Gulf of Mexico. Along either coast of Florida, well over the horizon is where bullet bonito, large schools of flying fish, squid and, of course, juvenile dolphin and tuna are prevalent, providing a healthy reward for the expended energy required for capturing prey. Soaking baits far from the nearest crowd
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
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Bigger, solitary singles and pairs are often found roaming open stretches of water, and these fish are almost always ready to feed.
also translates into reduced angling pressure, less wary fish and an opportunity to stumble across floating debris, color changes and/or rips before the next guy. Something else I’d like to point out is that I bet it’s safe to say that of the quality fish hooked, at least 50% come unglued during the first, or last, 30 seconds of the encounter due to some sort of tackle or
angler failure. And after fifteen years of saying the same thing, you know exactly how I feel about losing quality fish to mistakes that could easily have been avoided. A perfect example is when an apparently beaten bull finally comes boatside. An overly zealous angler may make the mistake of stepping back from the gunnel or lifting the rod tip too high, mistakenly assuming either move would help facilitate a clean gaff shot. In a last ditch effort, the determined fish digs deep into its reserves and charges directly under the boat or straight toward
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PHOTOGRAPHY: (LEFT TO RIGHT) DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM, MICHAEL GRANT
Examining stomach contents proves mature fish will suck down half a dozen quarter-size triggerfish followed by a two-pound bonito.
‘PHINATICAL turning props. With little stretch in the line and chaos ensuing in the cockpit, the weakest link between angler and fish is exploited and the stunned stud slowly melts into the azure depths. Heartbreak for sure. The truth is that many anglers underestimate the power of these fish with their vicious headshakes, screaming runs and broadsided battles all part of finely tuned defensive tactics for parting leaders and throwing hooks. With such impressive capabilities, anglers serious about scoring big must prepare accordingly. Fortunately, fishing a class or two above the norm nowadays doesn’t mean a threepound reel matched to a heavy broomstick.
Modern rods, reels, line and leader systems are manufactured of ultra lightweight materials that are stronger and more sensitive than ever. And that means anglers can go lighter, smaller and more comfortable while still maintaining maximum line capacity and plenty of fish-fighting power. In any case and with any class of tackle, proper fish-fighting skills and patience along with finely tuned equipment and reliable connections are required for boxing the big boys. Even then, success is never guaranteed. When it comes to fooling dolphin worth bragging about, the old adage of big baits catch big fish certainly applies, however elephants do eat peanuts and rarely will a
hungry ‘phin turn down an easy meal regardless of its size. Examining stomach contents proves mature fish will suck down half a dozen quarter-size triggerfish followed by a two-pound bonito. Because of their indiscriminate eating habits, along with the usual assortment of 4- to 6-in. feathers and chuggers, you
Rigged and fished properly, circle-hooks provide an exceptional hook up ratio and prevent aggressive fish from eluding capture with violent headshakes.
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FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
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should always include a pair of large baits in your offshore trolling spread. Skirted ballyhoo and Mold Craft Standard Wide Range lures are proven favorites. Of course, no dolphin article would be complete without touching on what is undoubtedly the most obvious and prevalent form of offshore fish-attracting structure— Sargassum. Don Hammond, who leads the Dolphinfish Research Program, will tell you that no less than 70% of all dolphin tagged over the past 15 years were caught in the vicinity of the golden macroalgae. However, just because you stumble across a vast, well-formed weedline doesn’t mean you’ve hit pay dirt. Some weedlines have been floating for months and are nothing more than a wasteland of dying vegetation devoid of life. Also take into account that a countless number of big ‘phins are taken with grass nowhere in sight. These open water fish are clearly on the move and likely in search of greener pastures.
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When the offshore bite leaves something to be desired it takes little more than a few quality fish to turn a dismal day into an exciting one...
Plastic trolling lures are user friendly and effective, but natural ballyhoo skirted with Mold Craft Little Super Chuggers also produce quality results.
BIOLOGICAL: DIANE ROME PEEBLES PHOTOGRAPHY: (TOP TO BOTTOM) BOST LURES, DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM
‘PHINATICAL
Bust a Broadbill Along with some of the tastiest table fare our ocean has to offer, dolphin also yield another prize for offshore anglers. Fresh dolphin belly is perfectly suited for rigging durable and extremely effective daytime swordfish baits. The process for rigging dolphin strip baits for big broadbills starts with a clean slice, cutting away the belly of the fish before it is filleted. Each dolphin will yield a single belly strip, which can be vacuum-sealed and flash frozen for future use.
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FLORIDA FISHING MAY / JUNE 2016 from mild to wild,SPORT we can build it
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30.3933° N, 86.4753° W
A History of Fishing FEW PLACES ARE STEEPED IN FISHING LORE, actually making the map by use of seine nets alone. Fishing back in the day was more of a livelihood than recreational or sporting pursuit, long before the advent of rods and reels for those purposes. But, what comes later from pioneering outpost on a barrier island to world-class fishing destination truly deserves mention. Coined the “Luckiest Fishing Village in the
to expand the seine netting application for adventurous tourists. Potential being what it is, after early morning commercial work, many captains then turned to the burgeoning tourism industry in the afternoons by bringing those visitors on recreational trips. A fishing fleet developed with over 100 boats with captains offering their fishing
World,” Destin is set apart from other angling
traversing the adjacent Choctawhatchee Bay
expertise and knowledge of surrounding
spots considering proximity to stellar deep-
for its bounty. With feeder creeks and a large
waters. Fishing camps were set up, and
water offshore, as well as outstanding near-
amount of water being pumped in from the
you have the collective makings of a true,
shore and inshore fisheries. Lucky spot, indeed.
Gulf of Mexico through Destin Pass, the deep
intrinsic fishing destination.
Destin has long since been dedicated to
60
ard Destin fished these waters exclusively,
With profitable catches, Destin and a captain by the name of William E. Marler set out
bay was a plentiful place to fish.
In the 1950s, the natural inlet was dredged
fishing. Before the application of a name, this
In time, a total of a dozen pioneer families
for easier access to the Gulf, providing additional value to the wares Destin fishermen
location and its history date back to the 7th
settled the area and continued to work the lo-
century, as artifacts confirm Native American
cal waters for sustenance. Their crafts were
need ply for. Now boasting the largest, fed-
habitation and their reliance on rich, indige-
small wooden boats powered by the oars of six-
erally permitted charter fleet in the nation,
nous seafood stocks. The Spanish also came
to eight-young men trawling large seine nets.
the industry evolved from humble beginnings
centuries later given the many wrecks dot-
As a result of their efforts, commercial hauls
with location being a large part of future de-
ting the seafloor nearby.
were kept alive in underwater pens and trans-
velopment and prosperity.
One fisherman in particular had great in-
ported by schooner for eventual sale in Pen-
Destin is now a hub for the most dedicat-
fluence here if not sole stewardship. Moving
sacola, thus giving Destin and the families who
ed big game anglers in the state and couldn’t
from New England in the mid-1880s, Leon-
lived there added importance and viability.
be more conveniently situated considering
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
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PHOTOGRAPHY: DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM
Destin, a Diamond Along Florida’s Emerald Coast STAFF REPORT
A History of Fishing In other areas of Florida, anglers are happy fishing in hundreds of feet of water, while Destin fishermen and tourists alike are enamored with fishing water hundreds of fathoms deep.
Amid highly restrictive regulations, American red snapper are extremely prevalent along the Emerald Coast and a prized target during their short season.
in hundreds of feet of water, while Destin fishermen and tourists alike are enamored with fishing water hundreds of fathoms deep. What sets Destin apart is the ease with
Depending on seasonal closures, typical
which to set out from Destin Pass and into
anglers fishing the tributaries and backwaters
trips include fishing an assortment of natural
deep water with this great variety of species
of Choctawhatchee Bay find consistent ac-
and artificial reef formations from as few as six
encountered. And expanding upon this is a
tion with seatrout, redfish, black drum, floun-
miles to more than 30-miles off the beach in
charter fishing fleet renowned for its capa-
der, sheepshead and more.
depths ranging from 60- to 200-feet of water.
bilities and size. Calling the Destin Fishing
During the spring, the near-shore water be-
However, it is the northern Gulf’s high stakes
Fleet Marina, HarborWalk as well as other
comes infested with cobia in a ritual migra-
offshore fishery that is the biggest draw, hav-
docks home, literally dozens of charter boats
tion within a quarter-mile of the beach. So
ing produced numerous billfish records over
vie for your business.
pronounced, Harbor Docks restaurant spon-
the years. Fifteen miles out and you’re at “The
Interspersed with commercial vessels and
sors and hosts the Cobia World Champion-
Edge” in 30 fathoms, and another 35-miles and
crews serious about the profitability of fresh
ships from March to May with as many as
you’re floating 2,000-feet above the seafloor.
seafood for local restaurants and markets, you
120 boats in hot pursuit of hard fighting ling.
What these depths engender is great fishing
cannot help but feel like an old salt yourself
with a bounty of species.
ambling down the dock past scents of squid,
Venturing further offshore, Panhandle headboats and private charter boats of-
62
all strung up during the same trip.
Crews typically focus their efforts along
bait and scales, and totes of snapper pulled
fer the potential to bring home more than
deep structures like DeSoto Canyon, The El-
a few fresh fish dinners. Targeted species
bow, The Nipple, and The Spur. Here, the
Options are many and how you make your
include hard-fighting amberjack, cobia and
rewards can be plentiful with the real possi-
choice might depend on a few factors, includ-
down the planks.
king mackerel, along with a variety of pop-
bility of catching marlin, sailfish and sword-
ing the seasons when visiting Destin and what
ular bottom dwellers. It’s not uncommon
fish in a single day with tuna, wahoo and
species you wish to target. No matter what,
to see red snapper, lane, black and white
dolphin adding to the excitement. In other
you will get tight. And, it’s easy to do with the
snapper, gag, red grouper and a few scamp
areas of Florida, anglers are happy fishing
seasoned fleet and captains before you.
PHOTOGRAPHY: (TOP TO BOTTOM) HARBOR DOCKS, DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM
nowhere along Florida's Gulf Coast is the 100-fathom curve closer. Additionally, inshore
The Benefits of Curved Rod Butts for Beating Big Game STAFF REPORT
PHOTOGRAPHY: MERCURY MARINE / JASON STEMPLE
66
First developed in the late 80s, bent butt rods that feature a curved section below the reel seat were designed to help anglers subdue the most powerful fish in the ocean. With an unlimited class 130-outfit, fighting chair, the correct technique and a skilled captain at the helm, anglers stand a great chance of landing the largest tuna and billfish that exist. However, as innovative anglers developed new practices for various species worldwide, the importance of rods affixed with bent butts has grown to many applications beyond fighting from a chair. Among numerous components to successful big game sport fishing, it should come as no surprise that selecting an inappropriate rod for a particular application will
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
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definitely be a hindering factor. Whether store bought or custom crafted, big game rods are incredibly specific and feature slight variances in blank length, taper, action, guide placement and butt style. However, bent butts aren’t ideal for every scenario. For many big game pursuits targeting marlin, tuna and swordfish—either standing up or from a fighting chair— anglers see great benefit by using rods that accommodate a bent butt. Though, it’s important to note that bent butts are specific to the angler’s experience, type of boat, target species and preferred fishing style. With a curved section of steel behind the reel seat, bent butt fishing rods effectively change the angle of the rod under
load, which can help maximize an angler’s pump and fighting stroke. While not to bore you with a physics lesson, a fishing rod is a third-class lever, with the “effort” located between the “fulcrum” and the “load.” A hooked fish provides the load, the butt is the fulcrum and your hand turning the reel is the effort. As a result of the fulcrum and point-of-pull compared to a straight butt, anglers can apply greater pressure with less effort and fatigue over drawn-out fights. You’ll really notice the benefit of a bent butt when a fight with a marlin, tuna, shark or swordfish takes you straight up and down. When fighting fish with a bent butt rod it will be challenging to go beyond the ideal 15° to 45° angle, which provides the greatest pulling power. Going to battle stand-up or from a chair on 50- or 80-wide outfits, a fighting or bucket harness is required because the angle of the curved butt otherwise puts the rod in a very uncomfortable position for anglers to
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PHOTOGRAPHY: WILL DROST
FROM AN OUTSIDER’S PERSPECTIVE, sport fishing is a simple task that’s largely influenced by one’s luck. However, dedicated offshore anglers who spend hours on the open ocean employing inventive tactics toward a target species know there’s more to it than leaving the bananas on the dock. In its short existence, sport fishing has seen innovations that have greatly increased catch rates and helped crews pave the way to the incredible pleasure and highly competitive sport it is today.
Bent butt rods deflect the load of large lures and cigar leads that anglers utilize to target wahoo at high speeds.
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FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
provides an additional precaution. There is a wide selection of aluminum bent butts available from numerous manufacturers to accommodate 30-, 50-, 80-, and 130-lb. class blanks. From here they are further segmented and available in chair length— around 28-inches—and shorter models for stand-up fishing—between 17- and 22-inches. Additionally, there are two basic designs one can choose from, the first being a onepiece aluminum butt that provides incredible strength and lightweight attributes. The second option features a design where there’s a ferrule above and below the reel, creating a three-piece set-up of butt, reel seat, and then the ferrule attaching to the rod providing total interchangeability and customization. While big game anglers hunting trophy
marlin in the Gulf can be seen trolling a spread of baits and lures off bent butts, there are other applications where you will find it beneficial to use this style of rod. Anglers trolling for wahoo rely on bent butt rods, and the changing angle of the rod tip that is afforded. Here, bent butt set-ups make it possible to troll large lures with heavy resistance and at high speeds by deflecting the load on the blank. For most Florida anglers searching for a mixed bag on the troll it’s best to implement a pair in your spread pulling heavier lures off the transom corners. A split The AFTCO Storabutt has a ferrule at both ends of the reel seat, which enables easy storage and quick conversion from bent to straight butt.
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PHOTOGRAPHY: (TOP TO BOTTOM) MARK WORDEN, AFTCO
68
reach the foregrip. In fact, for an angler to be able to reach the foregrip and use the proper technique the rod tip would have to be raised to a point where the beneficial effects of the bent butt would be negated. Instead, a stand-up fighting harness that drops the gimbal mid-thigh lowers the fulcrum point and provides maximum lifting power with greater mechanical advantage to the angler. Fighting stand-up with a bent butt will put a majority of the load on your legs, while a fight with a traditional straight-butt rod will put more strain on your back. When fighting fish out of a harness, it’s critical you size it and undergo a test run before a fish strikes. Proper form is key, and by keeping your back straight and legs squatting you will be able to easily lift the rod tip. As well, strapped into a harness, it’s important a spotter is nearby in case the drag locks up, the line gets tip-wrapped, or the angler stumbles and falls. Being tethered to a raging marlin or tuna and at risk of being pulled overboard is a scary thought, but with the right approach much of the risk is eliminated. A safety line attached to the rod also
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Captain Art Sapp rigs kite reels on bent butts with specialized kite rods to change the angle of line direction coming off the tip to clear the pipework of the tower.
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FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
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Trolling for wahoo, whether at 8- or 18-knots is all about keeping the lures underwater and the angle of line coming off the tip of a bent butt outfit keeps the line parallel to the water’s surface. Additionally, wahoo fishermen using cigar leads with long shock cords never physically pick up a rod and reel when fighting fish. Rather, the rod is left in the rod holder where the angler simply turns the handle. Deep dropping with heavy electric reels that remain in the gunnel also requires bent butt rods to maximize lifting power by putting the backbone of the rod in an ideal position.
Keeping these purposes and applications in mind, it’s also important to consider if your boat’s rod holders are set correctly for the type of rods you plan on using. When shorter, stand-up curved butts are placed in gunnel rod holders you will likely have clearance issues when turning the handle and may scrape your knuckles along the covering board. Innovative anglers have found even more uses for bent butts. Aboard Liquid, a SeaVee 390Z that specializes in tournament kite fishing, the crew has found another use for bent butts. Fishing out of the stern with kites port and starboard, the team runs the kite lines from the leaning post rod holders and through the outriggers to increase their kite spread. Captain Art Sapp rigs kite reels on bent butts with specialized kite rods to change the angle of line direction coming off the tip to clear the pipework of the tower. By running the kite rods out of the leaning post the gunnels are clear for unhindered fishability. Bent butt rods aren’t ideal for every scenario, rather they do shine under certain fishing applications.
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tail mullet or strip bait pulled behind a cigar lead off the transom corner is deadly with wahoo, and this presentation is best accomplished with a bent-butt outfit.
When mounted to a heavy-duty bent butt, the LP S-1200 electric reel enables anglers to present baits to big fish at extreme depths.
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MAY / JUNE 2016
Tips for Shooting, Editing and Posting Your Angling Adventures STAFF REPORT final product. The reward is a footage archive that can be transported by hand within the confines of your smartphone or seen anywhere an Internet or WiFi connection exists. One brand has pioneered the use of palmsized digital action point-of-view cameras, and
74
Social media sites and apps dedicated to
in smartphones have become so advanced
the applications to edit and post captured con-
the amateur and professional shooting and
in size and definition that low-end camcord-
tent. GoPro (gopro.com) mini-action cameras
posting of video are now integral to business,
ers are being sent to pasture at a steady pace.
are now seen everywhere, and to begin your
entertainment and personal sharing of mod-
The brand of camera is of some consequence
videography career using these sweet little
ern-day keepsakes. Dedicated digital action
considering footage quality, maneuverability
cameras, tips and how-to instructional mate-
cameras and those same functions housed
and ease with which to produce and post a
rials should be referenced without delay. Trial
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
JOURNAL // ONLINE // TELEVISION
PHOTOGRAPHY: DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM
SEEMINGLY, PRIVACY AND PERSONAL space are largely things of the past. Miniaturized digital action cameras with their user-friendly capabilities at capturing video and stills have seeped into every aspect of our lives.
and error is also useful, as is creative experi-
new GoPro models have provided continu-
mentation. At Florida Sport Fishing TV, all are
ous enhancements, GoPro HEROs 3-4 pro-
employed with great success. In a fast-mov-
vide ProTune settings geared toward more
ing industry, this is what we’ve learned on-
creative freedom during post-production
site and under budget.
work, enabling the shooter the opportunity for greater control of adjustments while shooting and later editing.
tions. Mount it on your person or something
Turn on the ProTune setting by selecting vid-
clever like a dredge, gaff or rod foregrip for
eo mode, then scrolling through the options to
the most immersive video experiences ever.
activate. Once activated, desired ISO, frame
Use of an extension pole or mounting arm
rate, resolution, sharpness, white balancing,
will capture footage from any angle, be it
spot metering and field-of-view, be it wide,
from over-the-water looking into the cockpit,
medium or narrow, can be chosen to suit your
underwater mounted in a housing, or from
eventual post-production needs. We recom-
above in a second station, giving added per-
mend starting with Auto White Balance, Go-
spective and vantage to edit from.
Pro Color, ISO 400, Medium sharpness and 0
Waterline or underwater angles are easy
Exposure balance.
with a pole-mounted GoPro, though when
The newest GoPro offers a variety of reso-
sweeping do so smoothly and slowly at some
lution options to suit your particular end goals,
distance from subject, stopping as desired for
and delivers incredible high-resolution 4K 30p
sufficient pause at each angle. Periodically
and 2.7K 60p video, combined with 1080
cleaning the waterproof housing’s front el-
120p and 720 240p slow motion, which is a
can easily drop your footage into a template,
ement with saliva and dunking the set-up in
good touch to highlight the action of jump-
replacing the example clips with your work.
the water will rid the lens port of water spots.
ing fish making a commotion near the surface.
You may import GoPro-captured content
GoPro’s smartphone app lets you pair your
For videos destined strictly for cell phones,
automatically and into those existing tem-
phone with its WiFi and Bluetooth capabil-
240p frame rate creates ultra-fluid slow-
plate clips. Edit points, motion effects, and
ities so you have a liveview of what you’re
motion. 720 120p is a good selection for a
the means for adding titles, music and audio
shooting to capture the perfect frame, stop-
frame rate that allows for slow-motion foot-
tracks are all dialed-in.
ping and starting as desired using the app’s
age at an HD resolution. 1080 60p is a great
big red record button.
For more professional results akin to the
setting if you want HD quality footage that
production of our TV series when several Go-
Menu settings are critical to the footage
still provides the potential for slo-mo. 2.7K
Pro cameras are used in concert with “A-roll”
you will later edit giving optimum latitude for
30p is the best setting to choose when you
cameras, we rely on Adobe Premier. But for
enhancements and sequential matching to
need to crop in on a subject. 4K is the high-
clips to share with family, friends and social
additional output from other cameras used
est resolution recording option.
media, the provided software from GoPro
during the same shoot. While the release of
GoPro users should be aware of the one-
The GoPro revolution has propelled am-
ing on the unit. When the bite is hot, this
ateur videography to unprecedented lev-
could be the difference between getting
els and with all this information, we can bet
the shot and recording a bunch of splash-
you’re chomping at the leader to get out and
ing water without fish. So, you’ve got your footage. Now comes
76
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
much more than suffices.
button mode that starts recording upon turn-
record that redfish caught off the kayak, or getting tight with a sailfish aboard your SUP.
the post-production work using any number
Whatever the story, you now have the
of video-editing software for your smartphone,
ability to capture, edit and share quality ac-
home computer or laptop.
tion videos that can be viewed by fellow an-
GoPro Studio is a comprehensive editing
glers throughout the world. Go out there and
program given exclusive use of GoPros during
capture nature’s raw power with these ultra
your shoot. The software contains templates
light recording devices. You may be surprised
to fast track the editing process, whereby you
at how much you enjoy the experience.
JOURNAL // ONLINE // TELEVISION
PHOTOGRAPHY: GORPO
Unique angles are quite accessible in light of a GoPro’s compact size and mounting op-
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...they are extremely effective while requiring substantially less physical effort than traditional high-speed vertical jigging techniques.
PHOTOGRAPHY: DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM
OVER THE PAST DECADE, high-speed vertical jigging has taken the saltwater fishing industry by storm. The technique has proven to be deadly effective from coast-to-coast against a long and highly varied list of prized game fish. Practically any open-water or reef-dwelling predator that relies on protein for a majority of its diet will fall for a vertical jig seductively dancing through the water.
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FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
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However, with the potential for exciting angling success comes one inherent downside—intense physical labor. Effective high-speed vertical jigging involves constantly working an 80- to 400-gram metal jig shaped and weighted to penetrate the depths quickly, back toward the surface with an erratic motion and at a constant rate of speed. The high intensity workout often results in cramped shoulders and forearms, and potential lower back pain for those who do not regularly use these muscle groups. Florida fishermen who are just opening their eyes to the effectiveness of highspeed vertical jigging and have yet to establish a smooth rhythm when working the slender lures often look like circus performers. They erratically jerk the rod from side to side and crank the reel with no apparent cadence. It’s no wonder they wear themselves out. Necessary is the time and experience to get dialed in without working way too hard, allowing the specialized tackle to work its magic with a smooth and steady sweeping/cranking motion. Newcomers often find high-speed vertical jigging frustrating and commonly throw in the towel after only a few minutes. Enter slow jigging.
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Many anglers used to count on slender, high-speed vertical jigs better suited for fooling fish on the way up, but flat-sided and center-balanced jigs designed for slow rotation and spiraling on the descent with a simple retrieve/free-spool repetition have enlightened many anglers to a better way. The clear advantage to fishing these lures, which often resemble a leaf or teardrop in shape, is that all one has to do is deploy the fake to the desired depth, usually directly off the bottom. Then, retrieve 30 ft. of line before shifting the reel into free spool and letting the fake bait commence its deadly descent back into the depths. The result is an offering dangled in front of the fish’s face for a longer period of time. Thus, the imitation has a greater
While conventional outfits are often the go-to when slow jigging, modern spinning gear also gets the job done.
chance of triggering a reactionary strike. With the jig in the strike zone, long sweeps of the rod also work extremely well. New England cod fishermen can easily relate to this style of jigging. In any case, vicious strikes come as the metal defies gravity and wobbles, darts and spirals on the fall. In studying the lures swimming through the water, I’m convinced the strategically balanced jigs appear more like darting squid than wounded baitfish. Either way, they are extremely effective while requiring substantially less physical effort than traditional high-speed vertical jigging techniques. Of course nothing is as easy as it sounds and to maximize on this simple yet deadly effective tactic, purposefully designed tackle is a must. With any sort of deep-water jigging monofilament is simply way too elastic to achieve the proper vertical presentation required to produce maximum results.
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On the other hand, modern braided line has near zero stretch, meaning every inch of rod movement is translated to the lure and even the subtlest strikes are easily detected. Because of its ultra thin diameter, braided line also allows bottom fishermen to penetrate the depths with lighter lures while still maintaining adequate line breaking strength. A full spool of 30 lb. Diamond Braid finished with 50 lb. monofilament top-shot tied directly to the lure with a loop knot provides the
perfect balance for most Florida snapper/ grouper slow jigging applications. Specialized sticks are important too, as you’ll be holding the outfit for extended periods of time while drifting across vast stretches of broken bottom. For this reason, a rod with enough backbone to heave back on a determined grouper yet light enough to enjoy the benefits of slow jigging is the way to go. Relatively short 5ʹ6ʺ to 6ʹ6ʺ rods are generally associated with high-speed vertical jigging where short, snappy pumps are required to impart the correct darting action. For slow jigging purposes, I had Chaos Rods of Pompano Beach build me an 8ʹ0ʺ composite conventional rod. It’s finished with feather-light titanium guides and an ultralight graphite reel seat with thin, lightweight foam grips. Weighing only ounces, the extra length of this rod provides increased casting capabilities and exaggerates the sweeping motion, thereby allowing my flat fall jig to flutter just a little bit further on the drop. I matched the rod to a lightweight Daiwa Hyper Speed Saltist and the result is an outfit that is capable of beating nearly anything that swims at almost any depth. And, it is a pleasure to fish with jigs to 300-grams in depths approaching 500-feet.
As with any style of offshore fishing, silky smooth drag systems with ample stopping power are a must for continued success.
Deep spools provide maximum line capacity and allow avid jig fishermen to target large fish in depths exceeding 500-feet.
A full spool of 30 lb. Diamond Braid finished with 50 lb. monofilament top-shot tied directly to the lure with a loop knot provides the perfect balance for most Florida snapper/grouper slow jigging applications.
PHOTOGRAPHY: DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM
Large, comfortable power handles with extremely tight tolerances are absolutely essential for maximizing slow jigging efforts.
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FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
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The introduction to slow jigging and the associated tackle and technique is just a prelude to a new form of fishing that will soon envelop the domestic angling
community just like high-speed vertical jigging since the turn of the century. The system is specifically called “slow pitch jigging,” and it was developed and perfected by crafty Japanese fishermen in an effort to combat increased fishing pressure, deep water and powerful currents. At the forefront of this new technique is specialized PE line and a dizzying array of specialty jigs designed exclusively for this type
of presentation. PE line is constructed of polyethylene, the same material used to create Dyneema and Spectra. It’s amazingly thin with even less stretch and resistance to powerful currents than traditional braided line, meaning even the slightest twitch of the rod is transferred to the lure. PE line is listed by precise diameter, which remains consistent from one brand to the next and is rated from PE .06 to PE 28. You can multiply the
Get Tight Jig masters who have slow jigging techniques dialed in rig their lures with assist hooks on either side of the jig, ensuring a solid connection no matter the angle of attack.
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FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
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JOURNAL // ONLINE // TELEVISION
PHOTOGRAPHY: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP) BOONE OUGHTERSON, DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM, SHIMANO
Gag grouper are just one of the many species that fall victim to a flat-fall jig's deadly descent.
PROTECT
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Shimano
Butterfly Flat-Fall
Center balanced, flutters with an enticing wobbling action in a horizontal orientation
Available sizes: 80-, 100-, 130-, 160-, 200-, 250-grams
Color patterns: 6 Website: fish.shimano.com
Shimano
Butterfly Flat-Side
Asymmetric 3D design with half-mirror that performs excellent on the fall
Available sizes: 112-, 140-,
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
are manufactured of highly advanced elastic graphite, a first of its kind and a contradiction in terms since graphite resists bending. The result is a series of specialty rods that are as thin as a pencil, yet practically indestructible. With short rhythmic sweeps and quick turns of the reel handle, the rod tip bends sharply before springing back into action and throwing the lure from side to side. Few locals have yet to experience this next generation of equipment that is slowly but surely working its way down the
168-, 224-, 280-, 325-grams
Color patterns: 8 Website: fish.shimano.com
Jimy Jigs
Dancing Jimy
With duel keels and characteristic leaf shape, the “DJ” is perfect for slow jigging
Available sizes: 80-, 120-grams Color patterns: 6 Website: jimyjigsusa.com
JOURNAL // ONLINE // TELEVISION
PHOTOGRAPHY: (LEFT) BOONE OUGHTERSON
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rating by ten to get an approximate breaking strength. The first time I wrapped my hands around a high-end slow pitch jigging outfit, I thought the limber 5ʹ2ʺ set-up was some sort of child’s toy. However after further inspection, I could tell this was no joke and decided to give the gear a test drive on a healthy stretch of jagged bottom to the northwest of the Tortugas. While I was extremely skeptical at first, a slob red grouper and pair of 15-pound mutton snapper quickly shut me up. The backbone to the up and coming technique born and bred in the Land of the Rising Sun is a rod specially designed to do most of the work. Futuristic blanks
This new generation of equipment and jigging technique is slowly trickling down for the average Florida angler to exploit in our deep water.
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FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
Hadar
The design of this lure allows for a flashing and darting motion in various directions
Available size: 150-grams Color patterns: 5 Website: almostalivelures.com
Ocean Tackle International Jager
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
Hydrodynamic design with opposing convex and concave sides makes the jig rotate on the fall
Available sizes: 100-, 150-, 200-, 300-grams
Color patterns: 8 Website: williamsonlures.com
Jimy Jigs Rudo
Super glow finish with serious vibrations generated as the jig darts and flutters
Available sizes: 100-,
Available sizes: 100-,
200-, 300-, 400-grams Color patterns: 5 Website: oceantackle.net
Color patterns: 15 Website: jimyjigsusa.com
Mungus
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Vortex
Body features a wider asymmetrical form that creates a great erratic flutter action
Hooked For Life pipeline. Those who have will tell you the incredible strength these feather light outfits possess must be experienced firsthand to truly be appreciated. While the future of slow pitch jigging looks promising, the truth is the specialized gear is very expensive and the technique is still some time away from reaching the masses. In the meantime, I’ll enjoy killing bottom fish worth bragging about by slow jigging with familiar set-ups, and I won’t work up a sweat doing it.
Williamson Lures
150-, 225-, 300-grams
Gypsy Lures Slider
Mungus emits a unique darting and fluttering action that drives tuna crazy
Typical of flat-fall jigs, the Slider darts from side to side as it descends
Available sizes: 150-, 250-,
Available size:
350-grams
180-grams
Color patterns: 5 Website: h4ljigs.com
Color patterns: 7 Website: gypsylures.com
JOURNAL // ONLINE // TELEVISION
PHOTOGRAPHY: DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM
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Creatures of the Lagoon Finding and Fooling Florida’s Record Trout DUSTIN CATRETT
PHOTOGRAPHY: TOSH BROWN
With great redfishing to the north and fantastic snook action to the south, Fort Pierce is home to a rich forage base and some of the largest seatrout in the world.
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FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
WITHIN THE SHALLOW WATER of the Indian River Lagoon live the largest spotted seatrout found anywhere in the world. Home to the current IGFA world record of the species weighing in at over seventeen pounds, Fort Pierce is considered to be one of the premier gator trout destinations in the country. Though, big seatrout can be caught throughout the entire lagoon system.
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Fish inhabiting this region benefit from South Florida’s warm water temperatures year round, and when combined with a nearby inlet and a variety of abundant prey, the conditions are optimum for growing super-sized specks. During spring and summer months, big seatrout concentrate on the flats closest to area inlets to devour the smorgasbord of migrating sustenance pushed inshore with the tides, as well as keeping an open escape to deep water if threatened. Healthy grass flats inundated with sand holes and bisected with lateral depressions provide both a mix of prime habitat and advantageous
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
topography. The best approach for targeting the largest seatrout in this venue is to arrive before the start of an outgoing tide. Mid-day low tides are often favored because they enable anglers ideal sight fishing conditions to spot suspended fish, but it’s important to remember that as the unbearable summer sun rises higher in the sky seatrout move on in search of cooler temps. The opposite holds true during our cooler months when specks gravitate to the shallows once the sun has had a chance to warm the bottom. The biggest seatrout can easily contend with swift currents that smaller finfish cannot,
and a new moon phase will strengthen the tides and can really turn on the bite. Initially, the high water scatters these predators throughout the flats, while nervous baitfish congregate in the skinny center of the bars for safety. Arriving early during slack tide gives you time to quietly set up and get in position, and dependent on wind conditions, wading may be necessary to cut down on hull slap. When looking for ideal habitat, anglers need to locate ambush points that offer prime opportunities for predator-prey interaction. Sometimes, a pothole or indentation in the flat may only provide a subtle contour change, but enough to garner the attention of a large speck. Besides the action atop area flats, anglers should also investigate the numerous spoil islands that were formed when the Intracoastal Waterway was originally dredged. Studying a nautical chart and referencing Google
JOURNAL // ONLINE // TELEVISION
PHOTOGRAPHY: CAPTAIN PETER DEEKS
In most cases monster seatrout are old, solitary, and elusive; possibly the cagiest adversary you’ll encounter on the flats.
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Earth will reveal emergent islands and submerged bars along both sides of the ICW. Anglers with experience targeting the largest seatrout look to the northern and southern tips of spoil islands and sandbars, but conditions and likely locations change daily. When the wind is out of the east educated anglers will look for ideal conditions to converge on the eastern shoreline, while a west wind will focus attention to the western side of the IRL. No matter where you fish in the lagoon,
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
one of the main benefits to the outgoing tide scenario is that as the water begins to recede, the topography of the bottom will be revealed. This provides a ground-truth visual of where all the small runouts and troughs you may have mapped beforehand are actually located. This will help define where to concentrate your efforts in order to eliminate unproductive water. Once the tide really gets dumping, the water levels will drop quickly, forcing baitfish off the bars and into the deeper edges, troughs, and undercut mangroves where ambushing predators like snook and seatrout will be concentrated. Free-lining a live pilchard or shrimp rigged on a 2/0 circle-hook will almost always garner a good rod thump when presented to a suspended fish. But, casting artificial lures is the easiest
means of keeping up with the action when the bite is on or when searching large expanses of shallow water. During late spring, seagrass strands recovering from winter dormancy are not as tall and topped out as the summertime, giving hardbaits an advantage over soft plastics by covering more water faster. By summer, the influx of baitfish reaches its peak, as the days grow longer and the window of feeding times becomes reduced. Noisy topwater lures mimicking migratory baitfish like LiveTarget’s Mullet Popper and Jackson Lures R.A. Pop are best for those early morning strikes under low light. After sun up, switch to suspending twitchbaits like a MirrOdine 17MR-808, Live Target’s scaled sardine, or Jackson’s Artist FR70 in black and chrome, which replicate the small scaled sardines and glass minnows inhabiting the majority of the southern IRL flats.
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Fooling big trout requires an incredible amount of stealth and patience, and inshore anglers unanimously agree that gator trout are the most elusive and wary fish found on the flats.
A FEW NEW ITEMS TO ADD TO YOUR BUCKET LIST The Frabill Bait Bucket. It has been a staple for anglers for years and is now getting a complete overhaul. Available in 5 new options with updated designs, new features and more durable construction, there is an option for everyone’s live bait needs. • CLASSIC BAIT BUCKET • INSULATED BAIT BUCKET • DRAINER BAIT BUCKET
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Locating a group of feeding seatrout can also be done by simply watching the sky for birds diving at small baitfish. Flocks of terns and gulls are a great asset in locating
During spring and summer months, big trout concentrate on the flats closest to area inlets to devour the smorgasbord of migrating sustenance pushed inshore with the tides, as well as keeping an open escape to deep water if threatened.
pods of glass minnows that seatrout love to feed on. However, if the seatrout feeding within the commotion are mostly juvenile in size, then it’s time to look elsewhere. In most cases monster seatrout are old, solitary, and elusive; possibly the cagiest adversary you’ll encounter on the flats. The slightest hull slap from even the smallest of skiffs can send them scurrying for cover. The biggest seatrout are very spooky and if you blow one out of a pothole, be
PHOTOGRAPHY: (TOP TO BOTTOM) WILL DROST, D. RAMEY LOGAN
The longstanding favorite 3-inch, ¼ oz. D.O.A. Shrimp cannot be overlooked either, as this proven fake has fooled numerous gators. During clear water conditions it’s advised you choose a light colored shrimp pattern like nite glow, pearl or silver glitter, while murkier conditions require a contrast in color like figi chix, rootbeer/ chartreuse or new penny.
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The most aggressive feeding activity occurs around first and last light, when walking-the-dog proves irresistible.
sure to keep a close eye on the fish. More often than not, seatrout will return to the same hole and you might be afforded another shot, although spooked fish are often wary of additional pressure. Keenly in tune with noise in the water, extra-long casts are crucial for putting the most distance between you and them to avoid spooking. To maximize casting distance, use a long 7ʹ6ʺ to 8ʹ0ʺ soft tip medium action rod, paired with a 3000 medium sized spinning reel spooled almost to the rim with a 10 lb. test, low visibility braided line. Use a light drag setting to compensate for the stiffness of the braid, and make sure to attach a two- to three-foot section of 30 lb. fluorocarbon leader as the IRL is
also home to some pretty formidable snook. The best time to target big seatrout is during the spring bait migration, when massive females gorge themselves in preparation to spawn. Reaching lengths upwards of 36 inches, seatrout are typically classified as “gators” when they eclipse 25 inches. Most large seatrout are females, and spawn multiple times throughout a season. Because of their importance to future stocks, be sure to practice safe catch and release by pressing the barbs down on treble hooks or even replacing trebles with single J-hooks to
further reduce damage to the fish’s mouth. When handling big fish boatside you never want to squeeze the belly and you certainly want to avoid hanging the fish on a gripper or scale. After removing the hook, ease the fish back into the water and gently push the fish forward, lightly forcing water through its gills. It may also help to revive fish near a drop-off or channel where the water temperature is generally cooler. By practicing safe release practices we can ensure the largest seatrout will go on to produce future classes of super-sized specks.
Greed Kills
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
PHOTOGRAPHY: (TOP TO BOTTOM) WILL DROST, PHIL OWEN
100
Unfortunately, the Indian River Lagoon is losing the battle against polluted discharges from Lake Okeechobee in the name of Big Sugar. By opening the floodgates and releasing a sweet poison, acres of rich seagrass habitat have turned to a sandy desert. While only time will tell, our most important and fragile estuarine ecosystems that support a diversity of wildlife are at risk of detrimental habitat destruction. Sadly, gator trout aren’t the only species at risk.
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PHOTOGRAPHY: DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM
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Yamaha F350
PHOTOGRAPHY: (TOP) JASON ARNOLD
HOW WE GET TO THE FISHING GROUNDS and what we do there is our business. Though suffice it to say, power and reliability are two sought after elements to consider when choosing an outboard no matter the end goal. Having the ability to traverse rough stretches of open water with speed, safety and confidence is essential to successful sport fishing. Additional factors that come to mind when
into play after a day out and the need to make
selecting an outboard include torque, fuel effi-
it back to the dock safely. In essence, it’s the
ciency, ease of maintenance, performance and
engine that does all of this.
price. With the introduction of the next gener-
Complete confidence in our power supply
ation of outboard motors to match the trend
is paramount. Captains and anglers alike are
of boat builders looking to break the size and
religious in their devotion to certain brands
speed barrier of what’s possible with a center
of outboards. As well, boat builders may sub-
console, the high performance fishing platforms
tly hint at specific makes and models for the
common today were once unimaginable. Here,
boats they manufacture knowing what en-
the breakdown takes place with only the big-
gine will propel their hulls swiftly and sturdily
gest and baddest outboards making the cut.
against the unpredictable ocean.
Finesse and power are attributes perhaps
The outboard trend has grown significant-
dissimilar but nonetheless important when
ly over the years as engines proceed to grow
considering the depth and intensity of sport
in size, reliability and efficiency. Massive cen-
fishing and the variables inherent to working
ter consoles powered by four giant outboard
wide ranging ocean conditions. In this adven-
engines all operating in perfect harmony are
ture, danger may loom knowing the power of
now as common as a high performance bay
Mother Nature and mystery of Poseidon jux-
boat with a 350 HP hanging off the transom.
taposed against the quest for the one.
Harnessing so much horsepower is no easy
In this endeavor, power is important when
task, and no matter the number of motors the
punching it through the inlet to beat an in-
transom must withstand the brunt of the force.
coming set wave, or when maximizing top end
Designers and boat builders must be certain it
speed with a heavy tournament load; finesse
cannot flex or twist, or performance, handling
is needed when approaching schoolie dolphin
and safety may be compromised.
lingering around weedlines and debris during
TORQUE can be thought of as the twist
lazy summer mornings. Fortunately, the latest
of an object. Like a ratchet twisting and turning
outboards provide ultra-smooth shifting and
to tighten or loosen a bolt, the same principle is
perfectly balanced cylinders to eliminate ex-
applied to that of a propeller through the action
cess noise and vibration. Reliability also comes
of the lower-unit gearcase of an outboard. This
FSFMAG.COM
MSRP: $30,685.00
Specs HP at Prop: 350 Full Throttle: 5,000-6,000 RPMs Cylinders: DOHC V8, 32-valve Displacement: 5,330cc (5.3L) Alternator: 50 amp Gear Ratio: 1.73 :1 Dry Weight: 763 lbs. Shaft Length: 25ʺ, 30ʺ Recommended Fuel: 89 Octane
105
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
Mercury Verado 350
MSRP: $28,990.00
Specs Tournament anglers have gone the route of employing configurations of quad Mercury 350s to get ahead of the competitive pack.
power. The saltwater environment makes this absolutely necessary. And, after a day running
when it comes to holeshot—the action going
and gunning, it is advisable to pump by way of
from standing idle to the initial thrust of forward
hose freshwater into the dedicated flush to re-
acceleration—and the quick shifting of gears to
move any saltwater and corrosive contaminants.
get the hull on plane in an efficient manner. En-
PERFORMANCE is the name of the game
gineered to be watertight, lower unit seals and
and holeshot is a motor sports term that de-
gaskets and their maintenance become crucial
scribes the initial thrust of an engine on the
to an outboard’s operation.
way to maximum speed. With boats, this is
FUEL EFFICIENCY is always on the minds
of particular interest. Engine configuration of
of captains, tournament professionals as well as
shaft length, transom position, prop selection
the average weekend angler. Though with fuel
and a range of other weighty elements will ul-
prices as low as they have been in years, it is still
timately contribute to slow or quicker starts,
a variable when choosing power supply espe-
and the power and torque needed to get up
cially if your appetite includes fresh tuna sashi-
to speed. The more livewells or added weight
mi taken miles across the Gulf Stream.
and drag of a T-Top will definitely affect pow-
MAY / JUNE 2016
er performance when pushing the throttle.
all weight and drag, which ultimately influences
PRICE for some is a mitigating factor when
efficiency. And with a pair, triple or quad set-up,
selecting an outboard. The depth of a configu-
each engine works just a little less while con-
ration will add cost at initial purchase and later
suming fuel divided between dedicated tanks.
maintenance. For those tournament profession-
But with added power supply comes the need
als or anglers with a deep wallet, nothing may
for additional oil changes, servicing appoint-
stand in the way of the performance desired,
ments and other cost factors per engine.
maintenance routine or fuel costs associated
Though not solely dependent on the engine
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
engines no matter the configuration or horse-
in itself makes the lower unit extremely integral
Engine configuration plays a big part in over-
106
MAINTENANCE is a big concern, and should be performed regularly on all marine
with triples or quads ripping through the water.
itself, efficiency when it comes to fuel rests with
As stated earlier, some brands have stood
the operator too. Fuel monitors, making sure
out with time and others are new to the indus-
your bottom is clean, changing of fuel filters, and
try. Yamaha and Mercury are two manufactur-
trimming the boat to achieve the proper run-
ers whose reputations precede their products,
ning attitude will all ensure fuel is not wasted.
though for good cause.
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PHOTOGRAPHY: (TOP) ENDLESSIMAGERY.COM
HP at Prop: 350 Full Throttle: 5,800-6,400 RPMs Cylinders: Inline V6 Displacement: 2,600cc (2.6L) Alternator: 70 amp Gear Ratio: 1.75 :1 Dry Weight: 668 lbs. Shaft Length: 20ʺ, 25ʺ & 30ʺ Recommended Fuel: 89 Octane
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MAY / JUNE 2016 CRC 1/2 pg May/June Issue.indd 1
3/7/16 10:51 AM
Many boaters consider the Yamaha V8-5.3
and noise. Regarding the corrosiveness of
liter F350 HP a marine outboard beyond com-
saltwater, sacrificial anodes throughout the
pare. If your haunts consist of grounds and
engine ensure the diversion of corrosive el-
target species hundreds of miles offshore,
ements from critical engine parts.
there are many anglers who swear by their
On the transom of Florida Sport Fishing’s
reliability and durability. The robust gearcase
flagship SeaVee 370Z are triple Mercury Ve-
the prop wash. Its full-throttle RPMs turning up
houses hardened gears and oversized bearings
rado 350s producing enough quiet power that
to 7,000 and 2.6L displacement are likely the el-
with a specially designed bracket to harness
the filming of Florida Sport Fishing Television
ements that professional anglers need in trying
the incredible thrust as it minimizes vibration
goes unhindered.
to surpass their competitors hunting the same
Mercury 400R
MSRP: $33,022.00
Specs HP at Prop: 400 Full Throttle: 6,400-7,000 RPMs Cylinders: Inline V6 Displacement: 2,660cc (2.6L) Alternator: 70 amp Gear Ratio: 1.75 :1 Dry Weight: 668 lbs. Shaft Length: 20ʺ, 25ʺ & 30ʺ Recommended Fuel: 89-91 Octane
I recall a day of filming that took us from a
quarry. The different hydrodynamic gearcases
mile off Hillsboro Inlet to 15-miles offshore
offered are the Offshore HD at 5.44-in., per-
and back with such velocity that Depart-
fect for center consoles, and the Sport Mas-
ment of Homeland Security agents stopped
ter, which was designed for boats that travel
us 2-miles out to investigate where we were
in excess of 85 MPH, both with a 1.75:1 gear
venturing at such maneuverable speed. Clear-
ratio. This engine boasts an all-new supercharg-
ly, a “feather in the cap” of those engineers re-
er air-induction system allowing cold air intake
sponsible for an outboard with 5,800 to 6,400
for engine cooling. A dry weight of 668-lbs., the
full-throttle RPMs and 2.6L displacement.
400R comes with a 2-year limited warranty and
An offshore, 5.44-in. diameter gearcase
3-year limited corrosion warranty.
is meant for durability in unruly offshore sea
The newest player to the high performance
states while providing added lift for today’s larg-
outboard game is Wisconsin-based Seven Ma-
est center consoles. Stronger gears and heavy-
rine, which produces what are arguably the
duty bearings lend reliability when needed the
most powerful outboards on the planet. A
most. Weighing only 668-lbs., other engines
General Motors supercharged 6.2L aluminum
in the same class are roughly 90-lbs. heavier.
small block V8 is the powerplant of both Sev-
A little more than a year old, the inline 6-cyl-
en’s 557 and 627 outboards. Built by GM for
inder Verado 400R is designed for racing but has
the Cadillac CTS-V, it provides the muscle be-
recently been fitted to center console tournament
hind a twin-pinion gearcase meant to maxi-
platforms looking to leave their competitors in
mize hydrodynamic efficiency. Resembling a
PHOTOGRAPHY: (RIGHT) DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM
With 1,600 HP hanging on the transom, the 39-foot Nor-Tech Sport-Open reaches breakneck speeds upward of 97 MPH. Hold on to your hat!
109
FSFMAG.COM
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
Seven Marine
Seven Marine
MSRP: $79,991.00
MSRP: $89,938.00
Specs
Specs
HP at Prop: 557 Full Throttle: 5,650 RPMs Cylinders: Horizontal 90° V8 Displacement: 6,162cc (6.2L) Alternator: 150 amp Gear Ratio: 1.61:1 / 1.75 :1 Dry Weight: 1,094 lbs. Shaft Length: 20ʺ - 34ʺ Recommended Fuel: 89 Octane
HP at Prop: 627 Full Throttle: 5,850 RPMs Cylinders: Horizontal 90° V8 Displacement: 6,162cc (6.2L) Alternator: 150 amp Gear Ratio: 1.61:1 / 1.75 :1 Dry Weight: 1,094 lbs. Shaft Length: 20ʺ - 34ʺ Recommended Fuel: 89 Octane
557
627
slender torpedo, the gearcase produces less drag as well as added propulsion. The horizontal crankshaft is the first of its kind in the industry. A transfer case featuring changeable gear ratios gives way to a prolific mix of speed, torque and fuel efficiency. Raw water is pumped to a heat exchanger system via twin counter-rotating impellers to cool both the closed system (running ethylene glycol) and the water-jacketed custom headers in the exhaust system. While this 557 HP outboard took the industry by storm, Seven recently outdid themselves with the introduction of their 627 HP outboard. Although both models are built on the same platform, the 627 produces a broader torque curve, which yields a faster holeshot and better mid-range power. The additional power is the result of modified combustion chambers, superchargers and exhaust valves, among other things. Simple choice is a matter of preference, but also one that’s likely influenced by price. And with our propensity to go further and faster to reach distant grounds, reliability in that power supply is sacrosanct so you can make it home
PHOTOGRAPHY: SEVEN MARINE
safely under the most demanding of conditions. With the latest high horsepower outboards providing unparalleled performance attributes necessary to power super-sized center consoles,
110
what’s not to like about the new standard in innovative outboard performance. The only question that remains is…what’s next?
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
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FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
111
buying some floating headache from anoth-
and it may not be the monumental task one
er boater has left me unsure of going this
and that ultimately depends on the state.
would think. Though, in the end, the govern-
course. I am reminded of the saying, buyer
Credit is applied to your Florida sales tax
ment will get you in some way, shape or form.
beware, but I love being on the water.
It’s been said only the very wealthy have
liability if you can prove through documen-
Though, the expense of purchasing a new
tation that a certain percentage of sales tax
the plans, accountants and attorneys in
boat from a dealer or broker with an expect-
was already paid to the taxing state where
place or on permanent retainer in order to
ed monthly finance payment for the next odd
the boat purchase was made. As a Florid-
jettison or hide their massive tax liabilities.
number of years leaves me with some addi-
ian, you would be responsible for the bal-
While true, there’s nothing stopping you
tional unease. My current gainful employ-
ance of that tax amount up to 6%.
from enjoying a little respite from the tax-
ment might not be as gainful as once thought.
...if buying from a yacht broker or boat dealer, sales tax will be part of the final bill here in Florida. This 6% tax is capped at $18,000...
For example, with Alabama’s 4% sales tax,
Or maybe, I’ll just fish aboard friends’ boats,
bringing that new center console from an
going from one to the next until they tire of
Orange Beach boat broker past Perdido Key
me getting tangled in the prop or having noth-
for exclusive use in Destin will have you pay-
ing to talk about with so many hours on the
ing out the remaining 2% to Florida coffers.
high seas under the beating South Florida sun.
“Use tax” is imposed when sales tax was
Anyway, let me think my way through this
not levied at the time of purchase, which de-
plan of mine. I conducted research into those states that
pends on from whom you buy. Simply, if buying from a yacht broker or boat dealer, sales
do not assess sales tax just to get my bear-
tax will be part of the final bill here in Florida.
ings if any one of these is even close to the
This 6% tax is capped at $18,000, depending
Sunshine State. None are considered South-
upon which totaled figure comes first.
ern with the exception of Delaware given the
The other option would be getting that used
orientation of the Mason-Dixon Line. The
but seaworthy center console with a pair of
the water, or else. You work hard, so let a lit-
others—Alaska, New Hampshire, Montana
Yamaha F300s on the transom from your bud-
tle creativity work for you using the follow-
and Oregon—offer no relief in terms of the
dy or by way of private advertisement. Here,
ing story as fodder and inspiration, though
travel there and back trailing a center con-
after a sea trial, if you so choose to spend the
be mindful constraints exist:
sole with outboards affixed.
man knowing all you want is a quiet day on
114
will be new or pre-owned. The thought of
duce your tax liability when purchasing a boat
cash, sales tax will not be collected or later
I wanted to buy a center console proba-
From what I learned, sales tax is incurred at
disbursed to the state of Florida considering
bly around 28-feet or so, but not sure if it
the time of purchase or transfer of property
it was likely paid when the boat was bought
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
JOURNAL // ONLINE // TELEVISION
PHOTOGRAPHY: DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM
However, there are methods to at least re-
While it’s illegal to avoid taxes on the purchase of a new or pre-owned boat, there’s nothing illegal about finding strategies to minimize your taxes.
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‘Use tax’ is imposed when sales tax was not levied at the time of purchase, which depends on from whom you buy. new just off the production line, wherever that was. Remember, only dealer or brokers are required to collect sales tax on behalf of the state of Florida at point of purchase. My choice has me purchasing a friend’s old 25-foot Wellcraft, with rod holders aplenty and a nice Mercury Optimax twin outboard configuration. So, I’ve evaded the sales tax through buying a used boat and outboards from that friend in question. Smartly, though, he itemized the final bill of sale as listing the outboards separate from the cost of the hull and all those rod
be $3,600, excluding the amount of the sep-
federal tax return, this is a plausible way
holders therein. Cost of hull was itemized
arately itemized outboards as well as any ve-
to stem added federal taxes onto those in-
at $60,000, while the Mercury outboards
hicle registration fees. The state Department
curred state sales or use levies.
were listed as totaling $20,000.
of Revenue might want a closer look at any
Here, though, discussions with clients must
bill of sale to satisfy their curiosity and the
comprise business with a “reasonable expec-
appetite that comes thereafter, though.
tation” that such conversations will earn you
registration must take place at the county tax collector, state Department of Highway Safety
As a reminder, you can evade sales tax
added income resulting from use of your boat
and Motor Vehicles office or licensed private
premised upon where you bought the boat
toward that end. Receipts and other docu-
tag agency. Knowing that sales tax will not be
though options are limited. Offshore or for-
mentation—dates and location of use, rea-
collected by any one of these agencies at point
eign purchases will remain under the radar
son of use and the expected benefit derived
of registration considering it was previously
until it’s time to register the vessel in the Flor-
from such use—proving business interests
my friend’s boat, with title in-hand and item-
ida county of residence thus incurring that
encompass your vessel should be compiled
ized bill of sale I must now pay the “use tax.”
use tax application and any other optional
and retained for reference or audit purposes.
This tax is also set at 6% here in Florida and
surtaxes. With such an acquisition, Florida
Additionally, if I earned my captain’s license
picks up where the sales tax does not apply.
gives you 90-days before having to come
and actually derived a livelihood from use of
clean in paying any taxes owed.
my center console as a legitimate charter ser-
Though, the agency doing the tax collect-
116
ing only wants to know about the “vehicle”
Keeping your vessel registered in a sales
or hull in this case, and not the cost or pur-
tax haven state like Delaware though using
vice, then too may I deduct expenses as business related. Once your charter service is up
chase of the outboards given they are not
it solely in Florida will send up a red flag for
and running, you may write off the deprecia-
inherently part of the hull. Only boats com-
any state investigator patrolling the state’s
tion of your vessel, fuel and maintenance costs
prising inboards or inboard-outboards will
marinas or waterways. Penalties exist and
as well as the need for mooring and repairs.
initiate the added tax burden, which is like-
will be exorbitant if you’re caught.
Since you won’t be using your boat for
ly part of the total purchase price to begin
With all that being said, I forgot to men-
chartering every single day of the week, only
with. Itemization here serves no purpose,
tion that entertaining clients aboard my
the amount of time servicing clients or cus-
new, but used Wellcraft will be on the agen-
tomers is allowed deducted in the form of
in this regard. As a result, my total “use tax” cost to the
da. Given entertainment deductions to the
business expenses. If you’re running charters
state for a used hull priced at $60,000 will
Internal Revenue Service on your annual
20% of the time, then only 20% in expenses
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
JOURNAL // ONLINE // TELEVISION
PHOTOGRAPHY: BOATTRADER.COM
With any means of motorized conveyance,
Some people have 2 boats, 1 for offshore and 1 for inshore.
And then some people just have a Tideline. You can do more in a Tideline.
TIDELINEBOATS.COM
A true hybrid, the Tideline 235 can do anything a bay boat can do but is more offshore capable than any bay boat on the market today. With a shallow draft, it tracks very well with a bow mount trolling motor, is quiet with no hull slap, and is a great inshore vessel. But unlike so many other bay boats, the Tideline 235 Hybrid is truly offshore capable. Rigged with twin engines, a large fuel capacity, insulated fish boxes, and a soft and dry cat ride, this boat is just as comfortable outside the inlet as it is staying inside.
The state Department of Revenue might want a closer look at any bill of sale to satisfy their curiosity and the appetite that comes thereafter... Marine Finance of Fort Lauderdale. “This cap has been helpful and many other states are going this route. Just pay the cap and be done with it,” advised Donnell. It’s easy to be lulled into thinking you can dodge taxation schedules. Consequently, governments have pretty much thought of everything to get you back onto the “T-Hook,” so to speak. The best word to describe any efforts at escaping tax burden when it comes to purchasing a boat is “mitigation.” Like those previously mentioned attributes concerning life, When registering internationally, the country you choose has a direct effect on your taxes and exposure to liability. There are certainly benefits, but U.S. states are becoming more progressive in this regard.
we will never escape taxes even on placid seas.
For more timely information regarding “Never” will you avoid taxes, said a blunt but honest Skip Morris of HMY Yachts.
any state tax questions or concerns, visit myflorida.com/dor.
Additionally, U.S. registration has been
118
some regulations and manning requirements.
One more thing, this having to do with sec-
Though if you have Road Harbour, Bikini, or
ond homes. Should you be lucky enough to
George Town painted on the transom, there
own a center console or any other boat hous-
was some major planning involved.
ing a head (i.e., a Porta-Potti), permanent galley
With professional guidance there are appeal-
and at least one sleeping berth, then collective-
ing and relatively simple avenues for register-
ly these will earn a second-home deduction
ing internationally, and you may evade sales or
in filing your federal taxes. This deduction is
use taxes by having a foreign-flagged vessel
only applied if you don’t own a second home.
but there are costs and complications in this
During the recent Palm Beach Boat Show,
endeavor that some believe aren’t worth the
I asked several yacht brokers and marine fi-
extra effort.
nance specialists of those avenues toward
“Cost here will outweigh the state’s sales
escaping tax liability when purchasing a boat
or use taxes of the $18,000 cap,” said Steven
well beyond the scope of a center console.
Donnell, a finance executive with Seacoast
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
Prepare to Pay to Play While the maximum sales tax on any vessel of any value is capped at $18,000 in Florida, the maximum tax on the repair of any vessel of any value is set at $60,000. Subsequent and separate repairs are each subject to their own $60,000 sales tax cap. Clearly, safe boating pays in more ways than one.
JOURNAL // ONLINE // TELEVISION
PHOTOGRAPHY: HARRY R. HINDMARSH
problematic for some owners due to burdenmay be written off.
119
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FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
Boat Preview
Bennett Trim Tabs XPT 1520
Trim tabs are essential to safe and efficient operation at any speed or sea condition, and also improve handling and balancing of an uneven load. Fabricated out of laser-cut, 7-gauge stainless steel, these heavy-duty trim tabs built for high performance center consoles in the 30- to 50-foot range represent the culmination of Bennett’s long-standing history designing and engineering reliable trimming systems. Built for speed, strength and dependability, the dual-acting hydraulic XPT series of trim tabs produce an incredible amount of force to trim large, fast vessels in rough ocean conditions. A dash-mounted rocker switch combines highly accurate indication, precise control and convenient auto tab retraction. MSRP: $5,042.00 Website: bennetttrimtabs.com
33 Mag Bay California Dreamin’
STAFF REPORT
CALIFORNIA SEEMS AS FAR AWAY AS ANOTHER PLANET. Though, wherever true anglers exist they will always gravitate toward the water. But would a center console built there have any role for the conditions seen off the coast of Florida?
120
The answer is yes, as a result of designs stemming from the founders of Cabo Yachts and world-renowned Michael Peters Yacht Design in Sarasota. The simple lines of this center console reflect a quiet confidence that’s incredibly elegant, authored by a team of boat builders with decades of experience. Though a semi-production boat, prospective buyers have a choice of numerous options and layouts. Two console choices exist depending on your favored on-the-water activities—a shorter console is tailored toward the avid angler and the longer version made for those boaters wanting a more comfortable cruising platform for family and friends. Each affords plenty of space to house stateof-the-art electronics suites and user-friendly switches and controls. The 35-inch helm panel accepts a pair of flush-mounted Sim-
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
rad NSS12 evo2 displays with room to spare. For an added touch of refinement, hand-built teak or fiberglass helm pods are also available. Covering the console, the T-Top with fiberglass hardtop allows for easy installation and essential placement of radar, VHF antennas, outriggers and rod holders. Below are color-changing LED hardtop lights. Navigation lights are Lopolight LED, and spreader lights by Imtra light up the night. The spacious 10-foot beam allows for comfort and maneuvering around the cockpit, with two tackle centers behind the leaning post offering a 12-tray capacity, a pressurized 70-gal. transom livewell covered over with a clear lid and an aft-of-console bait prep sink and cutting board. Another deck livewell has a 40-gal. capacity and below the tackle station is an 85-qt. Frigid Rigid cooler with padded cushion that doubles as an aft-
facing seat to watch the spread. Additional seating exists forward of the console in the form of a 62-inch-long, 46-inch-wide sun lounger with massive dry stowage below. The Carolina-flared hull with broken shearline and rounded stern comprises a 22° deadrise at transom, 2-foot draft, and patented Michael Peters twin-step design that’s efficient and stable in all sea conditions with quick time to plane. Vinylester resin construction, cored hull sides and solid fiberglass bottom harbor a proprietary molded stringer grid system. Cruising amenities incorporate Wetsounds speakers with subwoofer, premium upholstery and Optimus 360 joystick control. The creators of the Mag Bay have a long history in boat-building success and although created with Pacific Ocean exploits in mind, this sleek center console will be well at home throughout Floridian venues. Uniform is the experience of fishing. Mag Bay Yachts, magbayyachts.com
SPECS L.O.A. .............................................................33ʹ6ʺ Beam...............................................................10ʹ0ʺ Draft................................................................... 24ʺ Fuel Capacity ........................................... 338 gal. Weight ................................................ 10,200 lbs. Max HP.............................................................700 MSRP..............................................$278,000.00 *Model may be shown with optional features
JOURNAL // ONLINE // TELEVISION
Atlas™ Series Hydraulic Jackplate
Atlas Micro Jacker™
Atlas™ HD Heavy Duty Jackplate
Full line of setbacks from 4" to 14". Industry trend setting self contained hydraulics! First Jack Plate in the industry to pre drill for shallow water anchors! First Jack Plate to require ZERO grease lubrication! First Jack Plate in the industry to offer a safety cable! First Jack Plate in the Industry to offer a Hole Shot Plate! See for yourself why Atlas in the #1 selling jack plate amongst boat builders, dealers and professional fishermen! Often imitated, never duplicated!
thmarine.com FSFMAG.COM
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
121
Boat Preview
Raymarine gS 165
With a massive console, the largest vessel in the Regulator fleet provides dash space for three 16-inch displays for the most interactive electronics suite one could ever desire. Elegant and simple to use, gS Series multifunction displays are equipped with Raymarine’s fastest dual core processor plus a third dedicated graphics processor, delivering super fast and responsive performance in an incredible user friendly package. Enjoy fluid and effortless full touch-screen interaction with Raymarine’s easy-to-use LightHouse II user interface. Provides microSD compatibility for Navionics, C-MAP by Jeppesen and Raymarine LightHouse chart formats. MSRP: $5,999.99 Website: raymarine.com
Regulator 41 The Rise of the Super Center Console
located air-conditioning vents keep those at the wheel cooled during heated afternoons. Fishing wise, two illuminated transom
STAFF REPORT
WITH PURSUIT OF PRIZED GAME paramount for even the most recreational of anglers, coziness on a center console is a bit counterintuitive. However, one boat builder has redrawn the wide line between accoutrements and angling basics. The first-ever Regulator 41 sits at the top of a unique category of supersized center consoles that appeals to anglers looking to fish in style and comfort.
livewells of a combined 80-gal. keep bait alive and ready with 6 stainless steel rod holders organizing your go-to weapons of choice. A fishbox in the transom has a capacity of 84gal. The fiberglass T-Top features an electronics box, integrated spreader lights, LED lights and rod holders that are built into the aft support frame. The deck houses a 624qt. illuminated storage area that doubles as a fishbox or rod locker for eight outfits.
Regulator Marine of North Carolina ad-
cooktop and ample cabinet storage. Cour-
The Regulator 41 also incorporates a forward
vertises the largest platform in their expan-
tesy LED lights as well as a 28ʺ, 12V LED
console settee with a 240-qt. storage compart-
sive lineup as the one that will elevate your
television with AM/FM/CD/DVD player all
ment with molded-in bucket holders, as well as
offshore experience. Explaining this, their
lend domestic qualities for overnighters to
forward seating with flip-up backrests. Clear-
41ʹ3ʺ boasts impressive features and the
the islands. The stand-up head compartment
ly a boat for that discerning angler in mind,
well-conceived design it took to incorpo-
is adorned with a shower, glass bowl sink,
the Regulator 41 spares no feature. Here, you
rate within a 12ʹ6ʺ beam. The end result
storage cabinet, Corian countertop with in-
can handle big water and get tight in comfort.
is a 24° deadrise hull powered by quad Ya-
terior lighting and mirror.
Regulator Marine, regulatormarine.com
maha F350s and Helm Master digital control system.
122
The on-deck portion of the console features commanding helm space for up to three
The console is largely the focus. Beefy
16ʺ displays, glove boxes with fiberglass lids,
in appearance, it houses a 10,000 BTU air-
3 stainless steel cup holders, marine stereo
conditioned interior of considerable com-
with AM/FM/USB/Bluetooth, breakered
fort. A drop down berth sleeps two when
electrical system and USB charging ports all
not arranged as a dining area that features
tucked behind a frameless tempered glass
a cherry-accented table seating four.
windshield. Recessed footrests and Flexi-
An impressive galley nook is appointed with microwave, refrigerator, sink, inductive
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
teek marine decking at the helm add comfort for extended time on your feet. Helm
SPECS L.O.A. ............................................................ 41ʹ3ʺ Beam............................................................... 12ʹ6ʺ Draft....................................................................37ʺ Fuel Capacity ...........................................600 gal. Weight ........................ 20,100 lbs. (dry weight) Max HP .........................................................1,400 MSRP.............................................. $649,995.00 *Model may be shown with optional features
JOURNAL // ONLINE // TELEVISION
LOA: 20聞 Draft: 12.5聞 Approx. Weight: 1300 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 40 gal. Range: 170 miles Beam: 8聞 Standard Power 150 HP Optional Power 200 & 250 HP Vast Color Choices Available
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MAY / JUNE 2016
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Safe Boating
The best way to mitigate the harmful effects of sun exposure is to cover up with long sleeves, hat and application of the highest quality sunscreen.
Block the Burn The Mystery Behind SPF Numbers Solved
T.M. GOLUB
THE SUN IN THE SUNSHINE STATE IS A BIT DIFFERENT than other parts. For those from up north on vacation, this lesson is learned the hard way during the summer months when the feeling is one of being pan-seared as opposed to oven-baked.
PHOTOGRAPHY: DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM
Add the reflective qualities of the water’s
in a sea of choice and for what reasoning?
set: UVA rays are known for deeper damage to the skin over time while UVB rays cause those immediate sunburns. Sunlight comprises invisible ultraviolet radiation, inducing skin damage and wrinkles, as well as increased rates of melanoma—one of the most deadly types of skin cancer. Regarding UVA rays, there is no standard
surface and a boat’s gleaming topside, and
Big business tends to not only dramatize
rating in spite of these rays comprising the
you get a miserable day for not taking cover
but also offers a solution…their solution.
greater output of the sun. By percentages,
under a T-Top or donning a tubular bandana.
So, cosmetic products offered may signal
UV rays are split 95% UVA; 5% UVB. Ulti-
To be safe, discussion of what’s harmful
relief in the harshest elements, but have
mately, a good sunscreen will shield your
and the appropriate steps to counter ef-
little efficacy past glossy advertising cam-
skin from both across the entire spectrum
fect constant sun exposure will ultimate-
paigns and lack of real-life application or
but many don’t. While many anglers carry
ly improve your game on the water, if not
product utility. Trial by error is something
specialized face sticks and lotions for precise
keeping you alive to fish another day. And,
most cannot afford given the serious and
application, those who routinely fish from
that’s what it’s all about.
continued health issues associated with the
sunrise to sunset survive the sun by cover-
sun’s most harmful ultraviolet rays.
ing as much skin as possible with high-per-
The initialism SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and there are a multitude of sun-
Those cascading rays are divided into ei-
formance technical UV-proof shirts, hats and
screen products on the market that advertise
ther Ultraviolet A or Ultraviolet B, depending
sun shields. Long gone are the days fishing
varying SPF indices. But, which do you choose
on the level of danger associated with each
with your shirt off trying to work on a tan.
FSFMAG.COM
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
125
Safe Boating
SPF is a rating applied to UVB rays only, denoting how long in time you may stay in the sun without getting burnt while wearing the respective sunscreen, opposite being in the sun for a certain period of time and getting burnt without wearing sunscreen. For example, if it normally takes 15 minutes to acquire a burn, applying sunscreen with SPF of 10 will allow you to stay in the sun 10 times as long, or 2.5 hours. Dermatologists have said
tion from UVB rays and the burns that follow.
into consideration when choosing a sun-
that SPF indices are not consumer-friendly,
The SPF numbered rating only indicates the
screen, with some chemical attributes do-
therefore creating confusion for the average
multiple of time before protection runs out
ing more harm than good. Oxybenzone and
Joe where simplicity should reign.
therefore having to reapply, not to mention
avobenzone are good at mitigating UV ray
The process determining SPFs is quite sim-
swimming or sweating. Additionally, the SPF
exposure but like all chemicals, breakdown
ple though. It is done indoors underneath a
rating system is incredibly misleading, imply-
in terms of effectiveness will occur at first
light spectrum used to mimic the sun during
ing that a sunscreen with SPF of 30 would be
application. These chemicals may also seep
the height of the day when rays are at their
twice as good as one of 15.
into the skin, resulting in hormonal disrup-
strongest. Subjects wear sunscreen and oth-
However, the truth is that SPF 15 blocks
tion and other related ailments. Aerosol sun-
ers don’t, but together they are exposed to
93% of UVB rays and SPF 30 blocks 97%,
screen applications are widely seen on the
the same amount of light. The length of time
with SPF 50 only increasing protection to
market, but can lead to poor coverage and
underneath intense light and subsequent red-
98%. With little increase in protection and a
are also damaging to gelcoat and isinglass.
ness of protected skin is then divided by the
large leap in price, there’s little to be desired
One brand has secured a large market share,
amount of light endured by unprotected skin
from sunscreens eclipsing the SPF 50 rating.
and for good reason. Dr. Dan’s (drdanslipbalm.
and the redness that occurs. SPF protection
Ingredients are another factor to take
com) promotes what surfers may have known
from UVB—the rays responsible for sunburnt skin—ranges greatly. What is lost in translation though is a higher SPF doesn’t determine more robust protec-
As anglers, you must be aware of the risks with constant sun exposure in Florida. Skin cancer may very well end your fishing days if not careful.
for quite some time. The mineral combination of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide has “true reflective” properties, actually blocking both UVA and UVB without risk of skin irritation, hormonal disruption or chemical breakdown. Containing no harmful aspects, Dr. Dan’s SunStick (SPF 30), soon available in lotion, is an effective tool to limit skin damage by continued exposure to the sun. Even the American Academy of Dermatology has given their stamp of approval for Dr. Dan’s proprietary, PABA-free, hypoallergenic product that took ten years to develop.
more, a damn good sunscreen is as needed as hook and leader. The bottom line is that the best way to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays is to cover as much as possible and use only the highest quality products. To be helpful, the Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal
126
of Recommendation makes sure all awarded products meet the highest standards of effectiveness and safety.
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
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PHOTOGRAPHY: DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM (2)
Considering many anglers have cited skincancer risks as the reasoning for fishing no
Inflatable Boats, Liferafts, Yamaha Outboards and Marine Safety Equipment
305.621.1500 sales@lifelineinflatable.com
LifelineInflatable.com
Lifeline Inflatable Services, Inc 1590 NW 159th St. North Miami, FL 33169
Our mission is to get combat veterans that suffer from P.T.S.D. (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) together to enjoy a fun day of fishing and therapy along with a highly qualified counselor. 127
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FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
Marine Electronics Ocean Signal rescueME PLB1
Website: oceansignal.com MSRP: $269.95
Specs 24-hour continuous operation Operates on global Cospas Sarsat rescue system Small enough to fit in your pocket or tackle box, the rescueME PLB1 is a must have for all boaters and outdoor enthusiasts who routinely venture off the beaten path. Compatible with the worldwide dedicated search and rescue satellite network operated by Cospas Sarsat, there are no subscription charges for the service. The battery is certified for 7-years, the antenna is fully retractable, the unit has a 7-year warranty, and an integrated high-intensity strobe light features a molded lens to enhance visibility of its efficient LED. Comes standard with a snap-in mounting bracket, universal rubber mounting strap and detachable flotation lanyard.
GOST
Nav-Tracker 3.0 SM Website: gostglobal.com MSRP: $2,999.99
Specs Compatible with GOST Tracker App Water resistant Celebrating its 10th year as a world leader in marine security, Global Ocean Security Technologies is proud to introduce their latest feature-rich security and monitoring system with hardwired interface for onboard sensor integration. Easy to install, this comprehensive kit provides arm/disarm and relay control from anywhere in the world with the ultra-reliable Inmarsat Satellite Constellation. Included in the package is the GOST Nav-Tracker 3.0 control unit with tamperproof backup battery; hardwired interface unit; 2-meter I/O cable; IP67-rated momentary Arm/Disarm Button; Door/Hatch Contact; High-Water Sensor; GA-Mini Siren; Nav-Tracker antenna; 10-meter antenna cable; 2-meter power cable and a GNT-L mounting bracket.
128
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
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Marine Electronics Lowrance Elite-5 Ti
Website: lowrance.com MSRP: $599.00
Specs One-year warranty Built-in GPS This all-new standalone fishfinder/ chartplotter provides anglers with high-performance navigation technology and impressive returns thanks to CHIRP sonar, StructureScan HD and DownScan Imaging, all in a robust yet compact and affordable solution. With an easy-to-navigate touchscreen interface; Bluetooth and wireless connectivity; improved fish-target separation and screen clarity; SmartSteer control; singleor dual-control of Power-Pole installations and much more, this may well be the most feature packed mid-sized display ever released. With integrated wireless capacity, Elite-5 Ti models also work seamlessly with the Insight Genesis map-creation service, which allows users to make custom, high-resolution contour maps from recorded sonar logs.
Fusion MS-RA70
Website: fusionentertainment.com MSRP: $249.99
Specs Monochrome optically bonded LCD IPX7 waterproof resistance Featuring a sleek front face finish with a shallowmount case design and space-saving chassis for flexible installation options, this new compact marine stereo is affordable, feature-packed and built to the highest standards. With two independent audio zones available, each with advanced localized menu controls, users can balance and adjust volume level in two separate audio zones for a customized listening experience. Additionally, Bluetooth streaming and the ability to skip tracks and modify volume from both the stereo face and the connected device make the DJ’s job easier than ever.
FSFMAG.COM
129
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
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MAY / JUNE 2016
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Service & Repair
Steering Success Replacing That Wheel Isn’t so Daunting
T.M. GOLUB
LIKE A HOME’S KITCHEN, the helm of a center console is where you’ll spend most of your time. The helm is the focal point, housing all those required accessories for finding fish but also the means with which to deliver you safely from the clutches of Davy Jones’ Locker.
replacement of this vital seafaring instrument. As a consequence, there are more search results for wheels to purchase than those howto results guiding you through the process. The type of wheel chosen may have ev-
And with any well-appointed kitchen, even
PHOTOGRAPHY: DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM, (INSET) EDSON MARINE
the faucet can be looked upon by discriminating homeowners with either pleasure or
form, maintained throughout given the harsh saltwater environment. There are many factors that will prompt
erything to do with sleekness, spoke composition or tactile grip. It may be composed of stainless steel or polyurethane in terms of
distaste. That being said, your boat’s steering
boat owners to labor in replacing a steering
durability and ease of maintenance. It must
wheel must not only exude a sense of pride,
wheel. Saltwater corrosion, damage from the
also adhere to standards set forth by the
but also the capability to steer you homeward.
sun and routine wear-and-tear are the most
National Marine Manufacturers Association
The first thing many of us do when board-
common variables, but aesthetics also play a
and the American Boat and Yacht Council.
ing a center console, bay or flats boat we
role given the need to be shipshape. Again,
Indeed, the steering wheel is as important
might be considering purchasing is grab
efficient and eye-pleasing fixtures speak of an
as any other device on board.
hold of the wheel while imagining the smack
owner whose gear is reflective of his passion.
For the most part, visiting a marine parts
of swells outside the inlet or skimming the
Replacing a corroded or well-worn steering
clearinghouse will go a long way with any
surface along inshore shallows.
wheel is easier than one would think. Actu-
concerns a boater may have in this endeavor.
The steering wheel must feel comfort-
ally, very. A simple Google search under the
According to a helpful clerk at West Marine
able gripped in our hands and between our
term “marine steering wheel” will provide re-
of Deerfield Beach, steering wheel replace-
fingers. Though, more importantly, this all-
sults ranging from a wide array of wheels for
ment is not the daunting task one may suspect.
important implement needs to be in top
purchase to YouTube videos demonstrating
Accordingly, about 90% of center consoles
FSFMAG.COM
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
131
Service & Repair
Marine steering wheels are a matter of preference and relatively simple to replace. As with anything on your boat, maintenance is top priority.
do not operate the boat until this is remedied.
wheel rim and it should pop off without
Many steering wheel manufacturers like Ed-
damaging the tapered shaft. If you’re at all
son and Schmitt not only have suitable prod-
hesitant employing a rubber mallet toward
ucts to offer but also lend maintenance advice
this end, any automotive shop sells a “gear
to keep any new wheel purchased in shape.
puller” that will grip onto the shaft for easy
If it’s a marine-grade 316 stainless Edson
removal of the wheel after loosening and
PowerWheel, without proper care and main-
removing the locknut.
tenance corrosion may still take place. De-
If your wheel is so corroded at the hub,
spite an anti-corrosive coating, the surface
use of a penetrating lubricant and allow-
must remain free of contaminants, rust, wa-
contain a ¾-in. tapered steering shaft at the
ing it to set for several hours will assist in
ter and marine salt deposits. Soap and water,
helm. Underneath the cap cover at the steer-
removing the round eyesore.
and a dry cloth or chamois used after appli-
ing wheel’s hub is the locknut, which secures
Now, it’s on to mounting that newly pur-
cation will all ensure protection and shine,
the wheel in place along with a Woodruff
chased steering wheel. Whatever wheel
cleaning often and after every trip. Do not
key that combined lock the wheel onto this
chosen, it is sure to come with mounting
ever use bleach, Spray Nine, Comet or Soft
steering shaft once screwed down.
instructions. The entire installation kit is
Scrub on brightwork.
With a slotted screwdriver, socket wrench, rubber mallet and lubricant, you have all the necessary tools to upgrade your steering wheel while beautifying the console.
132
working order. If any looseness is detected,
largely self-evident even for the most mechanically disadvantaged. For certain, slide the new wheel onto
Some wheels being composed of polyurethane are highly susceptible to sun damage. In order to minimize the effects of degrad-
the steering shaft, aligning the Woodruff
ing UV rays, Armor All wheel protectant will
As told, simply pry off the cap cover at
key into the corresponding slot or keyway.
ensure desired suppleness. Also, covering
the center of the steering wheel with a
Place the locknut onto the shaft and tight-
the wheel when not in use is good routine.
slotted screwdriver, being careful not to
en with the appropriate socket. When this
Any boat fitting or related gear needs your
snap or otherwise break the cap. This will
is completed, simply apply the cap cover
full attention, as your life essentially depends
expose the sole locknut threaded onto the
by gently pushing into any corresponding
on everything working in concert. With that
tapered steering shaft.
groove or notch.
From here, use the appropriate wrench
Out of an abundance of caution, make sure
socket to loosen the locknut until it’s flush
the wheel is mounted securely and in good
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
in mind, do not ignore your steering wheel by keeping it well maintained, looked after or even replaced altogether.
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PHOTOGRAPHY: (LEFT TO RIGHT) T.M. GOLUB, PLAIR OWEN
If your wheel is so corroded at the hub, use of a penetrating lubricant and allowing it to set for several hours will assist in removing the round eyesore.
with the top of the tapered steering shaft. Using the rubber mallet, gently tap on the
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MAY / JUNE 2016
LEADERBOARD WELCOME TO THE WINNER'S CIRCLE
World’s Richest Tarpon Tournament
Downtown Showdown KDW
With a purse of $80,000 based on a field of 20 boats, this two-day tournament out of historic Gasparilla Island awards first and second place to teams with the most tarpon releases. Cash prizes are also awarded to the first and last fish released during each day of competition. Fishing dates and hours are set based on optimal tides and this year fishing will occur from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m., May 19 and 20. A catch-and-release-only event, the World’s Richest Tarpon Tournament has become a symbol for conservation, education and sportsmanship. During the 2015 event a total of 27 tarpon were released, with Capt. Steve Ahlers and his team aboard Lucky Lady taking home top honors and $22,000 for releasing four tarpon. Visit worldsrichesttarpon.com for complete event details.
A tribute to local angler Scott Terry, the Downtown Showdown KDW is much more than a fishing tournament. It also includes a family-friendly event with live music, food trucks, local vendors, kid zone and amazing boats and super cars on display in downtown West Palm Beach. The first of three events that make up the Beast of the East Kingfish Series, this KDW guarantees $10,000 to the event’s overall biggest fish, with prizes also awarded for the biggest kingfish, dolphin and wahoo, and KDW aggregate. Last year Reel Anarchy caught the largest fish of the event, a 37.92-pound kingfish, with Stihl Leader taking the aggregate Calcutta with a 91.68-pound combined weight of a single kingfish, dolphin and wahoo. The 2016 event is May 21-26, with complete event details and registration info available at downtownshowdownkdw.com.
Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic Attracting elite tournament crews far and wide, the Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic takes place June 22-26 to coincide with the peak of the Gulf Coast’s blue marlin season. Sanctioned by both international and regional tournament series and competitions including the World Billfish Series, Offshore World Championship, Gulf Coast Triple Crown Championship and InTheBite Captain of the Year Cup, the ECBC is a modified-release tournament with a 103-inch minimum lower jaw/fork length for blue marlin, which are the only billfish that may be weighed. Release points are awarded for blue marlin, white marlin, sailfish and spearfish. Last year, Cotton Patch caught a record-breaking 899.6-pound blue marlin good for $195,277. A total of $1,586,400 in cash prizes was awarded to the 78 teams entered. Visit fishecbc.com for your chance to take home the big check.
Florida Keys Dolphin Championship A Keys-wide dolphin challenge with five available weigh stations from Miami to Key West, this team tournament has a $500 general entry fee and allows for unlimited anglers. Fishing days will be May 14 and 15. There’s over $100,000 in cash and prizes up for grabs, with first place dolphin worth over $15,000. There are also individual weigh station winners and an optional entry category for the largest combined daily weight of a bull and cow dolphin. In 2015, Odyssea captured a 42.4-pounder on the tournament’s final day of fishing for a payout of $24,832. The dolphin was caught in 800-feet of water south of Key West. Contagious was awarded second place with a 34.7-pound dolphin worth $18,137. Point your browser to floridakeysdolphinchampionship.com and register your team.
East Coast Insider Secrets
RECAPTURE REPORT A bull shark tagged off North Miami Beach was recaptured offshore of Pensacola after traveling approximately 650+ miles over 41 days. Visit grayfishtagresearch.org for more incredible recapture stories and info on how to participate.
TAKE A GUESS Correctly identify the year this Mercury outboard was introduced for a chance to win an official FSF Apparel Pack. Submit guess to editor@floridasportfishing.com
FISH FACTS With highly reflective scales, lookdown use a biological camouflage strategy called polaro-crypsis to manipulate reflected light and match the environment of open water no matter the angle of the sun.
BEST BET OFFSHORE
136
BEST BET INSHORE
King Mackerel
Tarpon
Although kingfish are prevalent year-round throughout many of Florida’s coastal fisheries, the coming months of late spring and early summer present anglers with incredible opportunities to entice true smoker kings. In the northern stretches of the forecast zone big kings will be captured in shallow water as they tear through pogy pods, compared to winter fish that school along structure further offshore. In South Florida anglers are also afforded the opportunity to fish close to shore, with most live bait crews starting their search by making consecutive drifts through 70- to 100-feet or slow trolling the same depth zone. Here large blue runner, goggle eye, tinker mackerel and speedo attract tournament-winning mackerel. No matter where you fish, wire leader is critical to keeping connected, with an 18-inch section of titanium the best bet to avoid bite-offs.
During the coming months many anglers enjoy snook fishing along east coast beaches, inlets, piers and jetties, yet lurking around the same bait pods will be schooling tarpon that put tackle and technique to the ultimate test. Whether feeding on massive pilchard schools just feet off the beach or shadowing oily menhaden pods in deeper water, the tarpon action you seek will be largely influenced by the prevalence of forage—no bait, no fish. Fortunately, early summer mornings with light offshore winds make it easy to spot subtle surface disturbances and rolling fish. Fishing off a SUP is a great way to cruise the beach with a higher vantage than a kayak. Rigging live baits with 5/0 and 6/0 circle-hooks and 60- to 80-lb. fluorocarbon is standard practice for fish upwards of 100 pounds.
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
MAY 1JUNE 30
Summer Start Up Shootout St. Augustine nefma.com
MAY 5-8
Saltwater Shootout Pompano Beach bluewatermovements.com
MAY 6-7
Grand Slam KDW Jupiter fishgrandslamkdw.com
MAY 6-7
K92.3 Saltwater Classic Port Canaveral fishska.com
MAY 11-15
Pompano Beach Fishing Rodeo Pompano Beach pompanofishingrodeo.com
MAY 19-21
Fins Weekend Fishing Tournament Miami Beach miamidolphins.com
MAY 20-22
King of the Inlet Ponce Inlet kingoftheinlet.com
MAY 21
Grove Slam Miami groveslam.com
MAY 21-26
Downtown Showdown KDW West Palm Beach downtownshowdownkdw.com
JUNE 2-5
Ladies Fish Off Pompano Beach ladiesfishoff.com
JUNE 4
KDW Classic Riviera Beach kdwclassic.com
JUNE 4
Blue Water Open Sebastian bluewateropen.com
JUNE 9-12
Saltwater Slam Pompano Beach bluewatermovements.com
JUNE 16-17
Milliken’s Mac Attack Cape Canaveral fishska.com
JUNE 24-26
King Buster 400 St. Augustine kingbuster400.com
JUNE 25
Lake Worth KDW Lake Worth lakeworthfishingtournament.com
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BIOLOGICALS: DIANE ROME PEEBLES PHOTOGRAPHY: (TOP) MERCURY MARINE
EVENTS
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FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
Gulf Coast Insider Secrets
WHERE ARE WE?
Submit guess to editor@floridasportfishing.com
Congrats to Mike Galletti for correctly identifying the larval squirrelfish on page 132 of the March/April 2016 issue.
INDULGE Harbor Docks is not only home to the Cobia World Championships, but also Destin’s favorite waterfront restaurant and seafood market. Take our word for it and try the fish dip, which is made from select Gulf yellowfin tuna, brined and smoked in-house.
EVENTS MAY 5JULY 30 MAY 6-7 MAY 6-7
IN THE NEWS Led by researchers from the University of Miami, the Gulf of Mexico Research Initiative RECOVER team is currently examining the effects of oil on red drum and dolphin to further understand the potential for recovery following toxic events like the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Visit recover.rsmas.miami.edu for the latest findings.
MAY 13-14 MAY 14 MAY 19-20 MAY 19-21
BEST BET OFFSHORE
BEST BET INSHORE
JUNE 2-3 JUNE 4
Blue Marlin
138
After a spring cobia season keeping much of Destin’s offshore fleet searching the emerald waters just off area beaches, during the coming months anglers change strategy and tackle to head offshore and capitalize on the Gulf’s deep water bounty. When targeting billfish and various pelagic game fish anglers can either fish local bottom structures with current rips and temperature breaks—like the Nipple, Steps and Elbow—or go for gold and head way out for a multi-day trip to the numerous oil rigs that rest over 100-miles from Destin. Either way you are in for a great trip, with the decision influenced by studying satellite forecast imagery to reveal water temp, color and current. Trolling a mixed spread of lures and natural baits at 6- to 8-knots will get you connected. Most blues are in the 300-pound class, but there are bigger fish that roam the Gulf and anglers need to be ready for a 600+ pound giant to crash the spread.
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
Snook
A hot snook bite during closed season is par for the course, with west coast anglers seeing incredible catch and release action during the coming months along beaches and backwaters from Anclote Key south. Closed season extends through the end of August, with the action you encounter largely dependent on location, access and availability, with beach anglers seeing the best conditions during dawn or dusk with an incoming-tide. Along mangrove shorelines in the backcountry, midday outgoing tides pull fish from the safety of overhanging vegetation. This is when you will encounter snook staged along points and pockets within shorelines that deflect current and disturb forage species. A 7'0" mediumaction rod and reel outfit spooled with 15 lb. braid will subdue snook in any venue. Rigging with two feet of 20 lb. fluorocarbon may be necessary to fool the smartest fish.
JUNE 10-12 JUNE 16-18 JUNE 16-19 JUNE 17-18 JUNE 22-26 JUNE 22-26 JUNE 25-26 JUNE 29JULY 2
Suncoast Tarpon Roundup Tampa Bay suncoasttarponroundup.org
Ding Darling Tarpon Tournament Sanibel dingdarlingsociety.org
Bricks & Sticks Inshore Tournament Cape Coral bia.net/fishing
Ladies Billfish Tournament Pensacola pbgfc.com
Florida Pro Redfish Series Tampa floridaproredfishseries.com
World’s Richest Tarpon Tournament Gasparilla Island worldsrichesttarpon.com
Casting for a Cause
Florida City castingforacause.com
Ed Alber Tarpon Rodeo Tampa Bay tampabaywatch.org
Flatsmasters Tournament Charlotte Harbor flatsmasters.com
Flora-Bama Fishing Rodeo Perdido Key florabama.com
102.5 The Bone Fishing Slam Madeira Beach oldsaltfishing.org
Bill Hargreaves Fishing Rodeo Pensacola billhargreavesfishingrodeo.com
Junior Angler Tournament Pensacola pbgfc.com
Gulf Coast Triple Crown Championship Destin gulfcoasttriplecrown.com
Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic Sandestin fishecbc.com
Bud Light Fishing Rodeo
Pensacola Beach pensacolafishingrodeo.com
International Billfish Tournament Pensacola pbgfc.com
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BIOLOGICALS: DIANE ROME PEEBLES PHOTOGRAPHY: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) VISIT FLORIDA/BILL SERNE, HARBOR DOCKS, RECOVER/UM RSMAS
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MAY / JUNE 2016
139
Florida Keys Insider Secrets
BY THE NUMBERS
THINGS WE LIKE Killin Time II, based out of Cudjoe Key, tagged 220 dolphin in 2015, helping the team reach a total of 2,000 tagged dolphin since the inception of the Cooperative Science Services Dolphinfish Research Program. Visit dolphintagging.com for more info on everyone’s favorite fish.
EVENTS Offshore Bull and Cow Dolphin Tournament
APR 30- Marathon MAY 1 marathonoffshoretournament.com MAY 1-4
IGFA REPORT The world-record all-tackle mutton snapper weighing 30 lb. 4 oz. was caught in the Dry Tortugas with a Penn Graphite Lever Senator.
Congrats to Allen Crow of Mobile, Alabama for correctly guessing the USS Maine on page 140 of the March/April 2016 issue.
BEST BET OFFSHORE
Dolphin
140
Across the entire Atlantic region anglers relate summer doldrums to great dolphin fishing, and nowhere does it better than the Florida Keys. Here, the local charter fleet puts clients on fish day after day, with seasoned captains and mates carefully scanning the horizon as they search for diving birds, tailing fish, weedlines and floating debris. While you may prefer to troll compared to running and gunning, it’s critical you always have a pitch rod ready to capitalize on a quick opportunity that may present itself. This time of year the largest fish are encountered way offshore, with frigate birds and terns signaling life miles over the horizon. Trolling area humps is a great backup plan if you don’t find any life offshore. Checking satellite forecasts before you depart and looking for temperature breaks once on scene will also tip the odds in your favor.
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
BEST BET INSHORE
Yellowtail Snapper
Islamorada is the yellowtail snapper capital of the world. That being said, there’s no better time to catch your limit than during calm conditions common to the coming months. However, no matter the time of year it’s critical you head out with a sufficient amount of ground chum. While yellowtail are caught every day here, relentless pressure means they are trained on chum and without it you will be at a major disadvantage. From here it’s important you are anchored where your chum will drift with the current over prominent structure in 50- to 70-feet of water. Fooling the biggest flags is best accomplished with lightweight 12 lb. spinning outfits that make it easy to freeline baits and small jigheads at the same rate as the flowing current.
MAY 6-7
Tarponian Tournament Marathon 215.542.1492 Mother’s Day Dolphin Tournament
Marathon habitatmiddlekeys.org
MAY 6-8
Nick Sheahan Dolphin Rodeo Islamorada nicksheahan.com
MAY 13-15
Florida Keys Dolphin Championship Florida Keys floridakeysdolphinchampionship.com
MAY 21-22
The Long Walk Home Key Largo thelongwalkhome.org
MAY 22-25
Loop Golden Fly Invitational Tarpon Tournament
Islamorada 305.587.1460
MAY 27-28
Ladies Invitational Tarpon Tournament Marathon ladiestarpontournament.com
JUNE 3-5
Skippers Dolphin Tournament Key Largo skipperstournaments.com
JUNE 3-5
Original Keys Dolphin Tournament Big Pine and the Lower Keys lowerkeyschamber.com
JUNE 5-10
Don Hawley Tarpon Fly Tournament Islamorada guidestrustfoundation.org
JUNE 10-11
Ladies Dolphin Tournament Islamorada floridakeyselks1872.com
JUNE 11
VFW Fishing Tournament Key West 305.509.7244
JUNE 16-19
Blazing Mako Tournament & Festival Islamorada guyharveyoutpost.com
JUNE 20-24
Gold Cup Tarpon Tournament Islamorada goldcuptt.com
JUNE 24-25
UM Celebrity Dolphin Tournament Islamorada canesfish.com
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A survey conducted by the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation determined that in 2015 approximately 47% of first time fishing participants were female.
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MAY / JUNE 2016
141
Bahamas
THINGS WE LIKE
Insider Secrets
Book a 4-night consecutive hotel stay at participating Out Island resorts and marinas and receive an instant $300 fuel credit. Visit myoutislands.com for complete details.
DID YOU KNOW?
Research performed at the Bimini Sharklab has revealed that lemon sharks have grown as old as 37 years, which is almost double their previously estimated life span.
BEST BET OFFSHORE
BEST BET INSHORE
EVENTS MAY 1JUNE 17
Yellowfin Tuna
142
The availability of sushi-grade yellowfin tuna in The Bahamas is amazing, and experienced crews who have chased tuna across the Gulf Stream season after season have no problem scoring big. With a little education you will be in the tuna frenzy, too. From South Florida the closest and most reliable action takes place in Northwest Providence Channel. Bordered by Grand Bahama Island and the Great Bahama Bank, the channel is accessible from Bimini or Grand Bahama and features ultra deep water, impressive bottom topography and swift currents that flush forage and set the stage for exciting encounters. Anglers departing from points further north typically troll along the corner of Little Bahama Bank, where focusing their efforts at dawn and dusk puts anglers in battle with big fish eclipsing 100 pounds. Although tuna are light sensitive and feeding activity is intensified around sunup and sundown, don’t discount mid-day frenzies.
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
Bonefish
During May and June bonefish can traditionally be found in big numbers along white sand flats surrounding nearly every chain in The Bahamas. With intense midday temperatures heating the shallows, anglers fare best when ideal tides occur in the morning, flooding the shallows with fresh ocean water. With glassy early morning conditions and optimal lighting, hungry bones making mud puffs can be seen from a distance as they forage in only inches of water. This time of year anglers will encounter big bonefish swimming alongside massive schools of juvenile fish. Fly-fishing provides anglers with stealth and finesse, but a skimmer jig tipped with a piece of conch or shrimp will also do the trick. While some islands present the opportunity to get connected on your own, numerous variables influence the fish so a local guide’s knowledge is invaluable.
Bimini Bluefin Tournament Bimini skipstournaments.com
MAY 4-7
Guana Cay Championship Guana Cay bahamasbillfish.com
MAY 11-14
Custom Shootout Abaco skipstournaments.com
MAY 18-21
Boat Harbour Championship Boat Harbour bahamasbillfish.com
MAY 25-28
The Shootout Abaco skipstournaments.com
MAY 30JUNE 3
Harbour Island Championship Harbour Island bahamasbillfish.com
JUNE 1-4
Baker’s Bay Invitational Baker’s Bay bakersbayinvitational.com
JUNE 5-8
Billfish Blast Cat Island hawks-nest.com
JUNE 8-11
Abaco Beach Blue Marlin Tournament Abaco skipstournaments.com
JUNE 13-17
Cape Eleuthera Championship Cape Eleuthera bahamasbillfish.com
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The term “knot,” used to determine speed, is a reference to a nautical mile. Historically, sailors determined a ship’s speed by throwing a line with uniformly spaced knots overboard and measuring the intervals by sand glass over a period of 30 seconds.
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MAY / JUNE 2016
143
Fishing Aplenty Where Oceans Collide T.M. GOLUB
PHOTOGRAPHY: (INSET) SWORDFISHMIKE/SHUTTERSTOCK
145
FSFMAG.COM
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
WHEN ONE THINKS OF AFRICA, sport fishing and angling adventure don’t readily come to mind. Visiting game parks to observe the ferocious five and great white cage diving are the region’s most popular exploits for adrenaline junkies. But for die-hard anglers world class fisheries exist along the coast where warm and cold oceans meet and nutrient-rich upwellings spur a variety of species into action.
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
for their taking. And, take they did. First discovered in the late 1400s by Portugal’s Bartolomeu Dias, the Cape was termed Cabo das Tormentas, or Cape of Storms due to the wild weather, rogue waves and sea states experienced where the colder Atlantic and warmer Indian oceans collide. International trade also brought the Dutch to the Cape in 1652. In search of a way station for Dutch ships on their trips to India and back to Holland, Jan van Riebeeck landed three ships on what would comprise the future Cape Town as a representative of the Dutch East India Company. Ongoing Dutch expansion later called the Cape Colony would begin the initial makings of present day South Africa and the infamous racial legacy that followed. The collision of the colder Atlantic Ocean with the warmer Indian Ocean is also where
PHOTOGRAPHY: (TOP TO BOTTOM) GROBLERDU PREEZ/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM, CHAD ALCOCK
146
The waters and currents surrounding Cape Town and the Cape peninsula swarm with life all within sight of Table Mountain, beckoning anglers from around the globe in exploration of a distant locale with historical heritage. Cape Town is on the map due to Portuguese explorers and a Dutch colonial administrator separated by almost 200 years, where its location and sheltered bays at the southern tip of Africa brought immediate importance. With this discovery at the time, European realms realized it was possible to get to India by sea without need of overland routes through the Middle East. The high seas were consequently used as trading thoroughfares by great European maritime powers to and from continents a world away. With these nations and their quest for empire and colonial outposts securing safe and lucrative trade, the world was seemingly
Whether it's surfing or pier fishing, many South Africans gravitate toward the water, which contains a variety of prized species.
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Jutting out to the ocean roughly 22 miles south of Cape Town is the Cape peninsula and Cape Point, dotted with fishing villages, surfing beaches and marinas lining the headland and margins of fertile False Bay. and Cape Point, dotted with fishing villages, surfing beaches and marinas lining the headland and margins of fertile False Bay. It is here where the action peaks, everything from breaching great white sharks feeding on indigenous seal populations off Seal Island to spectacular tuna action that anglers encounter from 20- to 60-nautical miles offshore. Tuna fishing off Cape Point climaxes from February to April, where anglers encounter schooling yellowfin with the greatest
consistency, in addition to bigeye, longfin, albacore and skipjack tuna. The presence of a large commercial fishing fleet is enough to signal the quality fishing opportunities that exist offshore. Another Cape Point attraction is worldclass yellowtail fishing along coastal boilers and kelp beds, in addition to fantastic
PHOTOGRAPHY: (BOTTOM) DOMINIQUE DE LA CROIX/SHUTTERSTOCK
the south-to-north running Benguela current starts its flow up the western African coast, comprising the South Atlantic Ocean Gyre. The warmer Agulhas current running north-to-south, hugs the eastern coast of the continent then heads due east rejoining the Indian Ocean. With these adjoining currents come a wide variety of species and varying ocean conditions. Jutting out to the ocean roughly 22 miles south of Cape Town is the Cape peninsula
Great white predatory behavior is on full display off Seal Island, where the brave may witness this apex hunter from the safety of a steel cage.
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...many of the locals are fully-fledged fishing fanatics and take every opportunity they can to get hooked up whether fishing by beach, boat, pier or rocky shoreline.
to Durban, with nearly every coastal harbor along the way offering big game charters. In addition, many of the locals are fully-fledged fishing fanatics and take every opportunity they can to get hooked up whether fishing by beach, boat, pier or rocky shoreline. In Durban, anglers hunt offshore waters for sailfish and a variety of marlin species in the cobalt blue waters of the Indian Ocean. November to March marks peak marlin season with encounters of striped and black
The Cape's ideal location, varied terrain and numerous angling opportunities make it a must-visit on any traveling angler's bucket list.
marlin, and sailfish also seen from September through June. The east coast of South Africa is also where the world’s most incredible aquatic migration occurs. Typically spanning from May to July, the annual sardine run places millions of silvery baitfish on travels north from the
PHOTOGRAPHY: (TOP TO BOTTOM) SKILPAD/ISTOCKPHOTO.COM, SHANE GROSS/SHUTTERSTOCK
shoreline fishing. Sharking is a popular pastime in Cape Town and nearby areas like Gansbaai, 110-miles to the east, is called the white shark capital of the world. Forty species of shark call the waters around Cape Town home with bronze whaler, mako, thresher and blues regularly found along the Cape peninsula. Sharks are so plentiful that targeting them from rocky ledges inside the surf zone has gained in popularity, though the protected great white is the definite star of False Bay. South Africa is roughly twice the size of Texas and a 1,600-kilometer drive across the country will take you from Cape Town
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Visiting game parks to observe the ferocious five and great white cage diving are the region’s most popular exploits for adrenaline junkies. But for die-hard anglers world class fisheries exist along the coast where warm and cold oceans meet…
cold southern oceans off South Africa's Cape Point, hugging the shore as they make their way along the coastline. Visible even by satellite, these giant shoals of baitfish attract all sorts of predators ranging from birds, dolphins, sharks, whales and game fish all getting in on the feeding frenzy. Whatever your angling pursuit, there are a host of charter boats and outfitters that will get you on the bite, with most offshore captains and fleets calling Simon’s Town their home port. Situated roughly 20 miles south of Cape Town and on the peninsula, this coastal town is home to the main South African naval base and thoroughfares
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adorned with Victorian buildings. Car or train will get you here from the “Mother City.” Several charter boat operations are listed on capetown.travel, as well as lodging opportunities, dining options and exploration possibilities throughout the Cape. Seasonal weather is a definite factor in planning any fishing trip to South Africa, with the southern hemisphere summer being Florida’s winter. The many leisure activities add an exciting dimension for tourists and traveling anglers alike. Famed Table Mountain is a featured destination with a cable car taking you to vistas overlooking False and Table bays and the meeting of two oceans.
Country Facts OFFICIAL NAME
Republic of South Africa (RSA)
CURRENCY
South African Rand (ZAR) EXCHANGE
With a history rich in civil conflict, the World Heritage Site of Robben Island sitting just off Cape Town gives visitors some insight to the oppressive measures of previous colonial and South African governments. This island housed an infamous prison with its most noted political convict later becoming president of South Africa, one Nelson Mandela. If you’re highly dedicated to water activity, Cape Town and nearby environs won’t disappoint your need of salt and the relaxation that follows. It remains the whole of Africa’s most popular tourist destination. And, English is officially spoken with a charming, distinct accent.
Flying from the states offers traveling anglers numerous options, although no matter how you choose to get to South Africa it will undoubtedly take you quite some time. Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) and Cape Town International Airport (CPT) receive direct flights from several U.S. airports. With an approximate 17-hour flight from the East Coast, this trip deserves at the very least a week’s stay.
$1.00 USD = R 16.17 POPULATION
55 million AREA
1,219,090 sq. km OFFICIAL LANGUAGES
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CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
NEW SPORT FISHING COLLECTION 153
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BAIT WARS
… L I VE B A I T FLIES
T RO L L I N G LU RE S
VE RT I C A L J I G S
D E E P DI V I N G P LU G S
POPPERS
TEASERS
T W I TC H B A I TS
C RUS TAC E A NS
SOFT PLASTICS
RIGGED BAIT
BU C KTA I LS
S W I M M I N G P LU G S …
Mission Objective
INVESTIGATE & REVEAL
Black Bart 1656 Angle
Mold Craft Reel Tight
PHOTOGRAPHY: DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM
WITH COUNTLESS NATURAL AND ARTIFICIAL offerings available to Florida anglers, and numerous different baits effective for various species across a wide array of venues, we wanted to take a closer look at the options and share the features and fishability of each in a head-to-head competition. As Bait Wars progresses, readers may be surprised to learn there are scenarios when an artificial lure is favored over natural bait for its versatility and availability, while on other occasions nothing seals the deal like the real thing.
STAFF REPORT
BAIT WARS Length:
Black Bart 1656 Angle
Hand-poured with clear urethane that requires no polishing or buffing after curing
Incredible flashy head inlay and weighted inserts
Handmade in the U.S.A.
$62.95
Weight:
Website:
10.3 oz.
The
Medium/Heavy series 1656 Angle performs best with a 10/0 hook set and 400- to 600-lb. leader Suited
for 50+ lb. tackle
AVAILABILITY
DURABILITY
FISHABILITY
Black Bart Lures are sold through major online tackle retailers, high-end tackle shops, and mail-order catalogs
Nylon lure skirts are custom fitted to each head
If you’re fishing larger lures off the short corner, the 1656 Angle will excel in the outrigger where the flashy head insert shines bright in clean water
Black Bart Lures are hand made with the most durable and highest performance resins available
Hundreds of skirt combination options
The 1656 model is available in slant nose and flat face in Bart’s Medium (10in.) and Medium/Heavy (14.5-in.) series
Mold Craft Reel Tight
Head and skirt are fused together as one
Soft angle of tapered slant head runs well in all conditions, but excels in calm water
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Made in the U.S.A.
MSRP:
Weight: 7.9 0z.
Website:
Single
Best Rigging Method
Length:
12-in. (Senior)
$31.99
Overall Rating: 8.5/10
moldcraftproducts.com
hook stiff rig on 300 lb. fluorocarbon
Hookset The
In a smaller spread, the 1656 can be the star on the second wave off a short corner flat line Adjust your trolling speed and lure position so that the lure pops to the surface every 5- to 10-seconds
Reverse taper produces a slight wiggle yet still tracks straight
STANDOUT FEATURES
Overall Rating: 9/10
blackbartlures.com
Best Rigging Method
STANDOUT FEATURES
MSRP:
14.5-in. (Medium/Heavy)
should be positioned so the hook throat rides just beyond skirt material
Magnum Reel Tight can be weighted and presented as a hookless teaser
AVAILABILITY
DURABILITY
FISHABILITY
Available online and through big box retailers and tackle shops worldwide
Injected molded PVC body and skirt provide unparalleled durability
Slant face produces undulating action with aggressive splash and push of water as it comes to the surface
Three sizes: Magnum (18-in.), Senior (12-in.), Standard (9-in.)
Credited for countless billfish releases across the world, the Soft Head design takes continued abuse from unruly game fish
If the Reel Tight is the largest and most aggressive lure in your spread, it should be fished as a short flat line The purple/silver/black Reel Tight is great when skipjack and bullet bonito are present
PHOTOGRAPHY: DOUGHERTYPHOTOS.COM (2)
WINNER Black Bart
Visit big game fisheries worldwide and you’ll likely find a Mold Craft Soft Head on every boat you board. Responsible for numerous records and tournament wins, the Reel Tight is a great lure to keep in your bag of tricks, but Black Bart’s flashy 1656 wins the battle of marlin mechanics. Few brands in the sport fishing industry hold as much clout and deserve as much recognition as Black Bart Lures, and this plunger style lure with a reverse taper and slant head has proven deadly over the years. With custom skirt and head options, troublefree use and a proven track record with billfish and game fish in tropical seas worldwide, the 1656 is a classic that’s here to stay.
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Captain's Kitchen
'Turtle Brains' No Shame in My Game
CAPTAIN MIKE GENOUN
WHILE I ALWAYS RECOMMEND preparing seafood dishes from scratch, occasionally I too, make an exception and go the easy route. Linguine with white clam sauce would be one of them.
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When I crave it, I have to have it. And so over the years I have perfected this authentic Italian recipe using canned white clam sauce. You can scoff all you want at canned sauce, but just like everyone else you’ll be thanking me once that first fork-full of goodness hits your palate. Back in the day, my boys were grossed out by shellfish and complained that my clam sauce looked like chopped turtle brains. I don’t know how they knew that but the name stuck. This dish is super simple and exactly how I like it, rich and clammy, with the semi-boring base enlivened with lemon juice, aromatic garlic and fresh chopped parsley. The end result is a seafood sensation your guests will swear an award-winning chef spent hours preparing, when all you did was open a few cans and did a little chopping. Sometimes it’s okay to take the easy road.
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Ingredients (serves 4+) 16 oz. linguine
¼ c. white wine
(2) 15 oz. cans white clam
2 tbs. extra virgin olive oil
sauce (Progresso Garlic & Herb)
1 tbs. unsalted butter
(2) 6.5 oz. cans chopped clams, drained
1 tbs. fresh lemon juice
Littleneck clams (rinsed well
¼ c. fresh parsley, chopped
under cold water)
Grated Parmesan cheese
10 garlic cloves, minced
Salt & pepper to taste
Preparation Boil pasta in salted water (al dente is best). Simultaneously preheat sauté pan on med. heat. Add olive oil and butter. Sauté minced garlic until softened. Add lemon juice, white wine and chopped parsley and reduce for a few minutes. Add clam sauce and chopped clams along with a pinch of grated Parmesan and salt & pepper to taste. Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes so flavors blend. Add whole clams, cover and continue simmering until shells fully open. Serve with toasted French bread.
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Extended Getaway One Man’s Quest to Shun Modern Life
TED BENNETT
I WAS ALWAYS A DARING INDIVIDUAL with a sense of adventure and chaos thrown into the mix. Yet, despite personality quirks and character flaws I still preferred silence as opposed to blaring pop music and stuff. I likened myself to being that of a hermit, or that’s what I hoped for in older age. So, when the idea hit me about camping out on a range marker, I started planning immediately.
174
What would it take to sustain life on such a platform out on the open ocean? Would my safety be compromised? Would I need an umbrella? Is there a place to hang a hammock? These were all the parameters going through my obsessive mind, producing a haze of excitement at the prospect of solitude on the water far from the ills of civilization and the up-and-coming presidential election. The potential of any one of the candidates becoming the next commander-in-chief had given me added inspiration to move on out. Do you blame me? My research and provisioning took place
with fervor. Trips to Dick’s and Bass Pro were supplemented by online purchases of the usual fishing and camping gear with a dubious credit card. Though, I was takin’ care of business like Elvis would. Who needs good credit for the life I was about to embark upon? Debt collectors, come find me! For nutrition, I would first rely on MREs (Meal, Ready-to-Eat), and then go from there utilizing spinning gear and a cast net for extra dietary protein. There would be a wide array of rod holders, and I would even attempt to fly a kite off the downwind side of the platform.
Florida Sport Fishing, Vol. 15, Issue 3, ISSN 1946-4665 is published bi-monthly with an annual subscription rate of $19.97 by Florida Sport Fishing, 750 E. Sample Rd., Building 10, Suite 5, Pompano Beach, FL 33064. Periodical postage paid at Ft. Lauderdale, FL and at additional mailing offices.
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
Tools were also considered given the most likely attraction of the marker to resting gulls and frigate birds. The guano I was sure would be thick so removing it would have been a priority of the highest order, hence packing of Spackle knives. About the U.S. Postal Service, I was sure that any forwarding or change-of-address would provide difficulty knowing of their inefficiency and famed three-hour lunch breaks. I duly ignored this element of my planning but was sure to secure the latest technology for solar-power panels, again obtained with the mere wits I was born with. Phone? No need. Books? Not really, but definitely stationery for purposes of penning my book about present circumstance and pleasure. Though getting out to the marker, which must still remain secret, would be a challenge given my lack of maritime assets. I was hoping my friends with boats would oblige my adventure and provide at least a way out with no need for a way back. Through secret back channels, I contacted somebody on staff at Florida Sport Fishing knowing of their television show and means they have at their disposal for such a self-described crazy, but huge fan—I have a lifetime subscription. Their fearless leader Captain Mike provided me with a contact, and using a nondescript hull, this expert captain, who shall remain nameless, would get me there without fanfare or publicity. My plan was taking effect, with all the moving parts falling into place. There was one sticking point though: My lifetime worth of magazines. After some negotiation, it was set. My subscription would still obviously be effective with the caveat that whenever this particular captain would be on his way to The Bahamas he would drop off the latest issues in an orange Home Depot pail, tethered to marine-grade line, hanging off a floating marker. I can imagine the solitude. Postmaster: Send address changes to Florida Sport Fishing, PO Box 5089, Lighthouse Point, FL 33074 JOURNAL // ONLINE // TELEVISION
PHOTOGRAPHY: REYSART.COM
Fishy Stories
Till Next Tide
Macho Bravado Shadow Rap® Shad Stay in the strike zone.
Admit It…You Need Help
CAPTAIN TRED BARTA
I’M OFTEN ASKED HOW I learned Islamorada waters so quickly. The truth is that while I’ve experienced a respectful level of success in a short time, I don’t know much about fishing the Florida Keys and I admit that I could use more help. Almost any local pro knows ten times as
literally shut down a hot snapper bite faster
The fact is I lack the knowledge required for
than you can say “fried fish fingers.”
mastering many of the local fisheries on my
So, where do the snapper go? A pro who
own. In some cases I don’t have a clue about
is on the water daily taught me the species
how the tide, water temperature and clari-
typically heads to a deeper pocket or chan-
ty, and what migratory patterns and feeding
nel surrounded by shallow flats. I may have
habits affect day-to-day fishing across the re-
never figured that out on my own.
gion. Offshore, the extent of my deep-drop-
Yes, it is easier for someone in the indus-
ping knowledge could fill a thimble. What I
try to ask for help and advice than it is for a
do know is that if you want to learn a new
novice angler just getting started. But I am
fishery from the bottom up, the first thing
telling you that if you pay for even a single
you have to do is admit what you don’t know.
full day charter and show the captain the
The next step is to hire a professional who
respect he or she deserves, you will find the
earns a living on the water—a guide who
results very enlightening and well worth the
specializes in the venue and species you
money. Consider it an investment in your
want to master. Be honest from the start
fishing career.
and explain that you want to learn from
New for 2 0 16
ter fleets, the guys and gals at Worldwide
where, when and why to fish one spot over
Sportsman and the gang at Bud N’ Mary’s
the next. Let’s take mangrove snapper for
are first class and anyone who is seeking
example, which can be found almost every-
information and is forthright with their ex-
where throughout the Keys.
pectations can expect the learning experi-
Only when you understand the general mi-
ence of a lifetime. Most professionals go as
gratory patterns of mangrove snapper and
far as suggesting that you don’t bring your
can fully interpret different bottom compo-
own tackle and instead look closely at the
sitions and how they effect the fishery will
gear provided. These captains and crews fish
a clear picture emerge on what comprises a
for a living. This is how they put food on the
productive mangrove snapper hole, inshore
table so if they aren’t dialed in, they starve.
or off. This is something that could take years
The lesson is very simple yet many am-
to learn on your own, or just a single day with
ateurs with big egos continue to head out to show for their efforts. I say the most effi-
bite is always better when you have moving
cient way to learn how to put fish in the boat
water. By fishing with local pros,
in Islamorada, or in any body of
I’ve grasped which particular
water for that matter, is to learn
tidal stage is best and why it
the ropes from someone with
can vary from one side to the
decades of experience.
water temperature across the
FLORIDA SPORT FISHING
MAY / JUNE 2016
on their own with nothing but poor results
Another valuable lesson learned is that the
other. I’ve also absorbed that
DicksSportingGoods.com
Speaking for two well-respected char-
an expert regarding tackle, techniques and
a professional guide.
176
with a quick drop in water temperature can
much as I do about fishing the island chain.
Till next tide,
Keys, especially in Florida Bay, is critical, and how a cold snap
JOURNAL // ONLINE // TELEVISION
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JULY/AUGUST 2016
BACK IN BLACK Seabass from Coast-to-Coast Fish-Filled Reefs You Never Knew Existed Lunker Linesiders—Where to Find Stacked up Snook This Summer Walk the Dog—Master Inshore’s Hottest Move Cored Hulls—The Future of Boat Building? Close Look—Rigging Natural Marlin Baits Team Liquid—Follow One of South Florida’s Top Tournament Teams
PHOTOGRAPHY: NOAA
On The Horizon
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