Great Days Outdoors - May 2023

Tuscahoma Hunting and Timber Investment Choctaw County, Alabama, 1358+/-Acres

Experience waterfront luxury and adventure like no other with this exceptional property just a few miles east of Butler. Boasting 2.4 miles of Tombigbee River frontage, this rare turn-key property is perfect for entertaining family and friends or for a luxurious getaway. Relax in the custom-built main lodge with four bedrooms and four bathrooms including a master suite, with ample room for entertaining and storage below. The guest lodge also features four bedrooms and four bathrooms, and other amenities include an enclosed metal equipment shed, cab and air tractor with implements, game skinning shed, and dog kennel. With strategically placed food plots and feed/ mineral stations, productive duck ponds and sloughs, and strict wildlife management in place, the hunting is fantastic for mature whitetails, turkey, wild hogs, waterfowl, doves, and other small game. The 35+/- acre fishing lake with a 3-bay boat dock that has been stocked and managed for world-class bass and bream fishing, as have the other two stocked ponds on the property. The timber is diverse, with merchantable pine plantations, various ages and species of natural regeneration hardwoods, and mature bottomland hardwood and cypress - perfect for wildlife habitats. The 30+/acres of open land around the lake and leading to the lodges make a perfect dove field. Accessible via County Road 27, this property is just a short drive from Mobile, Birmingham, or Montgomery. An additional 1,000 acres may also available for lease at agreeable terms. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to own a piece of waterfront paradise that has it all!

Over 700 more tracts across 47 states available...

COUNTY ACRES

BEST BETS FOR MAY

These are our top targets for hunters and fishermen this month!

BY WILLIAM KENDY

THE SPECKLED TROUT ARE CALLING

It is May and the speckled trout are looking to eat anything that isn’t swimming too fast in the whole water column including your live baited hook and artificial lures.

According to guide Captain Patric Garmeson, throwing topwater lures that imitate the preferred mullet and or pogie in early morning and later in the evening can result in hook-ups. He fishes in six feet deep and shallower water in areas with grass, shell, rock, dock or sand bars.

As the sun gets higher, working popping corks with live shrimp, artificial lures that resemble shrimp and soft plastics like the Lil Slick are good for locating and catching specs.

As the day progresses switch to subsurface lures like the Mirrolure, swim baits, shallow diving stick baits and the Slick lure.

TIME TO GO AFTER BAMA BLUEGILLS

Bluegills don’t care how experienced you are or what gear you’re using, they just want to eat and they aren’t discriminating. Old, young, experienced or beginner anglers of whatever skill level matters not to gills. Spinning, spincast or even an old-fashioned cane pole work just fine.

They also aren’t fussy about what they eat. Worms, crickets, small jigs with curly tails, Beetle Spins, small hardnose baits and small crankbaits like the Pradco Wee Crawfish or even small spoons and spinners will catch fish. If you are fly fishing, poppers and rubber spiders work.

To find bluegills work docks, submerged stumps or logs, rock piles, edges of aquatic vegetation, drop offs, by dams, sandbars and for fun, take a risk and cast your bait into the most unlikely spot. You just never know with bluegill.

MAY IS A GOOD “CATCH ALL” MONTH

Spring/Summer Food Plots

Over on the hunting side, spring is the perfect time to turn your thoughts to food plots for deer, turkey and other wildlife. Start early and have the soil tested to find out what the pH is and whether you should add lime. Have a clean seed and apply glyphosate to kill weeds and grasses.

Give your Guns Some TLC

May is a great time to pay some attention to your firearms. That means a “heel to muzzle” cleaning (who doesn’t love the smell of Hoppes #9?) and make sure all the fittings and mounts are snug.

Structure your Pond

Spend some time making sure your pond has fish holding structure not only to provide security and “ambush” spots for the predators and prey but to help you catch more of them. Sink logs, trees, rip-rap and artificial structure in shallow areas of the pond where the fish are and avoid oxygen starved deeper cold water.

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Scamp are regarded by many as the finesteating fish of all species . Notice the “Broomtail” in this picture .

Scamp Fishing The Ultimate Guide

BY JOE BAYA

I’m often asked, “What is your favorite fish to eat?” Without even giving it a second thought, I can snap back, “Scamp”. These deep-water groupers are the prize of any bottom fishing trip, and even better if you have a cooler full of them. Putting together a box of these bottom dwellers is not easy, however, it requires planning, attention to detail, and skill. The good news is I have been lucky enough to fish with some of the best scamp fishermen in the Gulf of Mexico, and they’ve been very generous in giving me more information to help you improve your Scamp fishing.

WHAT IS A SCAMP GROUPER?

The Scamp Grouper, also known by its scientific name Mycteroperca phenax, is a species of fish belonging to the family Serranidae. It is a type of marine fish that is primarily found in the western Atlantic Ocean, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico and the southeastern coast of the United States. You can learn how to identify a scamp grouper fairly easily, they have a dark brown or reddish-brown body, covered in small, light-colored spots. They have a caudal fin that forms the signature “Broomtail”, a large mouth, and a protruding lower jaw. They can grow up to 3 feet in length and can weigh over 30 pounds. In fact, the current All-Tackle World Record Scamp weighed 32 lb 0 oz and was caught in 2016 by Theodore Wingfield fishing out of Atlantic Beach, North Carolina.

SCAMP VS GAG GROUPER

Scamp and Gag Groupers are two different species of grouper that can be found in similar areas and are often caught together, but they have some distinct differences in appearance. Here are some key differences between Scamp and Gag Groupers:

1 Body shape: Scamp Groupers have a more robust body shape, while Gag Groupers have a more streamlined body shape.

2 Coloration: Scamp Groupers have a darker body coloration that is typically brown or reddish-brown with small, light-colored spots. Gag Groupers have a grayish-brown body coloration with dark, rectangular markings on their upper body.

3 Mouth: The mouth of a Scamp Grouper is larger than the mouth of a Gag Grouper, with a protruding lower jaw.

4 Size: Scamp Groupers can grow up to 3 feet in length and can weigh over 30 pounds, while Gag Groupers can grow up to 4 feet in length and can weigh up to 80 pounds.

It is important to note that both Scamp and Gag Groupers are subject to different fishing regulations and it is important to know the regulations in your area and identify the fish correctly to ensure compliance with these regulations. If you are unsure about the identification of a fish, don’t box it.

WHERE CAN YOU CATCH SCAMP GROUPER?

In the United States, Scamp Groupers can be caught in waters off the coast of Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, Georgia, and the Carolinas. They are typically found in deep waters, ranging from 60 to

300 feet deep and even deeper. They are often associated with rocky or reef habitats with structures, such as ledges, pinnacles, and ridges, where they can hide and ambush prey. While you may find Scamp in an area today, habitat preferences of Scamp can vary based on factors such as the availability of food, water temperature, and currents. They can be “here today and gone tomorrow”.

SCAMP FISHING TECHNIQUES

One of the best Scamp fishermen that I know is Delynn Sigler, from Pensacola, Florida. Delynn is a true “Grouper Whisperer”. I recently caught up with Delynn on an episode of the Northwest Florida Fishing Report and he was kind enough to let me pepper him with questions on Scamp fishing. His decades of bottom fishing knowledge were on full display in this interview.

Q: When it comes to scamp fishing, how do you calibrate your electronics and what are you looking for once you have them dialed in?

A: Scamp are often found on natural bottom but a lot of times your natural bottom is small. Scamp are bottom fish so they are going to be relatively close to the bottom, most times. So let’s say you’re in say 300 feet, I zoom in to the bottom 30 to 60 feet that way I can see details. I can see a fish coming off the bottom and going back down to the bottom and about what size I think they are. If you’re in 300 feet of water and you’re zoomed all the way out and looking at rocks that are maybe a foot off the bottom, you’re almost looking at nothing. you have to zoom your machine in. Additionally, I turn my gain on manual. I turn my gain all the way up till I get just a little bit of “snow” on the screen. It’s just little specks. That way you’re seeing everything, you can put it on auto and get rid of all that stuff, but you also lose a lot of your fish and a lot of your detail.

Q: Do you like to drift while Scamp Fishing or is it important that you hold up on a spot?

A: I know people have a lot of luck drifting. I don’t like to drift at all. I like to get fish fired up under my boat and keep them fired up right there until they’ve stopped biting and I know it’s time to leave. I’ll stay right there within 30-40 feet of where I want to be and that’s it, I camp out until it’s time to go somewhere else, it works for some people just doesn’t work for me.

SCAMP GROUPER FISHING RIGS

Q: What are the most important rigs to fish? Let’s say you’ve got five guys fishing, what are you sending down?

A: I’m a big Carolina rig guy. But two hook rigs can be impressively deadly for Scamp. You can fish live bait or dead baits with them or artificials on a two-hook rig. A lot of people don’t realize that you can put a little scented curly tail jig on a two-hook rig and jig it up and down and Scamps will eat it up from time to time on artificials. Carolina rigs are probably the best but

Scamp can grow to over 30 pounds, but you’ll catch more fish if you lighten your tackle

A: I like a rod that bends! I would rather you see you fish with a rod that’s too light than too heavy. Scamp aren’t the most aggressive fish in the world. A good friend of mine brought a little bass rod out with me and he smashed the Scamps on that rod. He could see the bite and never pulled the hook.

Q: What do you look for in a conventional reel for scamp fishing?

A: High gear ratio is great for checking your bait in deep water. But it’s harder to turn your handle when you had a fish on. Just don’t reel so fast you pull it out of his mouth before you hook him. I’m a big Talica fan but I still have a bunch of Penn 4/0’s. I think they work just fine. I don’t think you want anything bigger than that. Any kind of reel about that size or smaller.

Q: What is the Best Hook for scamp fishing?

A: I match the hook to the bait and the line. You don’t want a giant 15/0 hook and I don’t use those 4x hooks. In fact, I use a 2x hook when Scamp Fishing, even a wire hook. If you’re only using 40-pound line, use some kind of wire hook, you’re not going to straighten it on 40-pound test. So if you can’t straighten it with your line, then it’s plenty heavy enough. The light wire hooks let the bait move more naturally and it doesn’t kill the live bait as much. They swim faster and get more bites and it’s easier to drive home. Lighter is better for Scamp fishing.

SCAMP GROUPER SIZE LIMIT FLORIDA AND OTHER STATES

two hook rigs work really well, they’re not real picky.

BEST BAIT FOR SCAMP FISHING

Q: What is your preferred live bait for Scamp Fishing?

A: My preferred bait of all time for scamp has to be a little small hardtail. I think they like little hardtails better than anything else. But if they’re feeding on little Tinker mackerel offshore, they’ll bite live cigar minnows over anything else. But as a rule, that little small hardtail, they love those. They’ll tear those up. That being said, I bring everything I can get my hands on in a reasonable time. If you get out there and for whatever reason, there’s a little school of small white snappers, and that’s what they’re eating then they’ll just annihilate pinfish. Herrings are also great bait for them. It just depends on what they’re feeding on at the time.

Q: If you’re going out and you want to put some dead bait on the boat as a backup, what’s your dead bait?

A: If I take dead bait, it’s generally squid. The big Boston mackerels, I’ll take those and they’re too big for scamp generally, but you can fillet them off and put little fillets on there. A whole squid works really well for scamp with a two-hook rig or Carolina rig.

Q: Do you ever use jigs?

A: Yeah, jigs worked really, really well actually. Slow-pitch jigging works amazingly well sometimes. Diamond jigs, any kind of curly tail jig works. They can all work. I’ve seen them all work really well, it depends on how aggressive they are. It’s not my preferred method of fishing, but I know people that just mash them on jigs. Don’t get over about 20 feet from the bottom and drop it back.

SCAMP FISHING TACKLE

Q: What do you look for in a bottom rod?

It is important to note that fishing regulations can change, and it is the responsibility of the angler to stay informed of the current regulations in their area. Violating fishing regulations can result in fines or other penalties, so it is important to know the rules and follow them carefully. Scamp Fishing regulations can be found in the links below. Be sure to comply with regulations in both State and federal waters.

1 Florida https://myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/recreational/groupers/ and Florida Atlantic Waters https://safmc.net/species/grouper-scamp/

2. Alabama https://www.outdooralabama.com/fishing/saltwater-recreational-size-creel-limits

3 . Georgia https://safmc.net/species/grouper-scamp/

4 . Mississippi https://dmr.ms.gov/recreational-catch-limits/

5 . Louisiana https://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/page/recreational-saltwater-finfish

6 . Texas https://gulfcouncil.org/fishing-regulations/federal/

7 . South Carolina https://safmc.net/species/grouper-scamp/

8 . North Carolina https://www.deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/marine-fisheries/rules-proclamations-and-size-and-bag-limits/recreational-size-and-bag-limits

SCAMP GROUPER RECIPES

Scamp Grouper is considered to be a delicious fish to eat and is highly sought after by many seafood lovers. Scamp Grouper has firm, white meat with a sweet and mild flavor that is similar to crabmeat in its texture. Scamp Grouper can be cooked in a variety of ways, including grilled, baked, fried, or broiled but in my opinion, Scamp needs to stand alone in a dish. I recently took my good friend Hank Shaw on a scamp fishing trip and if you want advice on how to cook just about any kind of seafood, Hank is your chef. Check out his recipe for Pan Seared Scamp. https://honest-food.net/ pan-seared-grouper-recipe

If you want nearly year-round access to what some feel is the finest-eating fish of them all, focus your energy on scamp fishing. These beautiful fish are fun to catch, especially with a group of friends. Remember, focus on depth before structure and bait before technique. Lighten your tackle and apply the lessons from this article and you’ll be on the fish in no time.

With

Barotrauma often includes the stomach protruding through the mouth and bulging eyeballs, both signs of a severe case of “the bends” in fish. (ReturnEmRight)

Proper Catch & Release While BOTTOM FISHING

BY FRANK SARGEANT

Reef species are so popular on the table that the last thing most of us want to think about is releasing them after the catch. But with tight harvest rules on most species these days, catch-and-release is a part of nearly every bottom-fishing trip. Many fish that come over the rail will be too small, the wrong species, or may put you over your daily bag limit

If you bring up one of these fish from water over much over 65 feet deep, odds are good it will suffer “barotrauma” which is basically the bends in fish, plus added complications as their stomach gets pushed out their mouth from the rapid pressure change as they’re brought to the surface. Some fish experience the problem in water as shallow as 35 feet, and nearly all of them do if brought up from 90 feet or more, fisheries biologists tell us.

Per biologists with Louisiana Fish & Wildlife, symptoms include:

• Stomach protruding from the mouth

• Bulging eyes

• Bloated midsection or distended intestines

• Sluggish swimming or inability to swim downward

• Lifted or bubbly scales.

If you release fish with any of these symptoms without treatment, odds are very high they won’t survive long. They either die from the trauma or they’re eaten by sharks as they drift on or near the surface.

This is not only an obvious waste of the resource, but it can also impact future catches which can result in even tighter harvest rules.

An average angler might be catching three or four fish or more that have to be released for each of the few legal ones that go in the box. If those released fish don’t survive, the numbers add up quickly. If we waste 75 percent of the fish we hook, it doesn’t take long for federal and state agency testing data to start showing declines, and that results in either tighter limits or fewer open days of fishing, neither of which any of us want.

Bottom line is it’s in our own best interests to make sure as many fish as possible survive the release process.

By law, any anglers fishing for reef fish in the Gulf of Mexico must now carry aboard and make use of dehooking and descending devices aimed at improving survival.

The DESCEND Act, which went into effect on January 13, 2022, requires anglers to have a venting tool or descending device onboard while reef fishing in federal waters of the Gulf.

Here are the requirements:

Any boat harvesting or attempting to harvest reef species (primarily grouper and snapper but other species

are included as well) must have a “descending device” aboard: Here are the basics:

• An instrument capable of releasing a fish at the depth from which the fish was caught must be aboard.

• The device must be rigged and ready for use when fishing.

• The device is composed of a weighted hook, lip clamp, or box that will hold the fish while it is lowered to depth. The system must then release the fish promptly.

• The rule sets a minimum of a 16-ounce weight and a minimum length of 60 feet of line attached to the descending device.

According to researchers, when a fish gets back to the depth where it was caught, its equilibrium is restored and it can make a dash for cover before sharks or jewfish home in on it in most cases.

Basically the trick of getting the fish back to depth quickly is a matter of plenty of weight, and a method of releasing them once they’re back near home. Not all of them make it, even when sent back down quickly, but researchers say about 80 percent do, which is way better than the 100 percent that die if they’re not sent back down.

The devices are not expensive. The Seaquilizer is about $60. It looks somewhat like a BogaGrip fish gripper. It can be set to release at 50, 100, or 150 feet and can be used to release fish caught in water up to 300 feet, on the theory that if you send the fish back to half the depth it came up from, it will probably survive.

The FishSaverPro is only about 20 bucks. It’s basically a large, barbless hook with a line attachment at the back of the bend. You just clip a large weight—10 to 16 ounces is best, to the eye clip, attach the

fish and send it plunging. The weight keeps the hook pulled into the jaw until it gets deep, and then when you hit the brakes on the line, this pulls on the bend of the hook and jerks it out of the mouth. The result of which is that the fish is free.

The Shelton Fish Descender is even less costly, at about $8. It’s designed primarily for smaller bottom species. It’s basically a heat-treated wire shaped more or less like a hook, again with a line attachment on the bend as well as at the eye, and it works in the same way.

THE VENTING PROCESS

The rules require that any boat harvesting or attempting to harvest reef species must also have aboard a venting tool with these capabilities:

• Must be capable of penetrating the abdomen of a fish to release the excess gases accumulated in the body cavity when a fish is retrieved from depth.

• Must be a sharpened, hollow instrument that allows air to escape, such as a hypodermic syringe with the plunger removed.

• The rule sets as a minimum a 16–gauge needle, which has an outside diameter of 0.065 inches, as the minimum diameter hollow tube that must be used.

• Fishermen may also choose to use a larger diameter hollow needle because it will allow air to escape from a fish faster.

• A tool that is not hollow, such as a knife or an ice pick, does not meet the requirements of a venting tool, and must not be used to vent a fish.

Researchers say that venting most fish does them no permanent harm, with the small puncture wound in the belly soon healing.

Red snapper are one of the primary beneficiaries of descending devices because so many of them must be released while out of season (ReturnEmRight)

devices that quickly

fish back to safe depths and release them there

SUPPORTING THE LOCAL ECONOMY & ECOLOGY

THE “RETURN EM RIGHT” PROGRAM—AND FREE STUFF

To encourage more anglers to become aware of the rules and do their share in preserving the reef fish resource, the “Return ‘Em Right” program was developed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Florida Sea Grant, the University of Florida’s Marine Sciences Department and the Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission.

According to Nick Haddad, Sustainable Fisheries Communications Manager for Florida Sea Grant, this $30 million project was selected and funded by the Deepwater Horizon Open Ocean Trustee Implementation Group as part of the 2019 Open Ocean Restoration Plan Reef fish species were substantially harmed by the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

The agencies are working with a coalition of anglers, small businesses, industry groups, state agencies, universities, government and non-government organizations committed to maintaining healthy fish stocks and fishing access in the Gulf of Mexico.

The project also will conduct post-release monitoring and studies to assess effectiveness of the work and evaluate the success of training and outreach efforts. This information will be shared with anglers at outreach events.

It’s hoped that these efforts will help increase the number of fish that get back down to depth safely, enhance angler contributions to reducing reef fish mortality, and provide improved fishing experiences.

And there’s a bonus. Gulf of Mexico reef fish anglers who fish for federally managed Gulf of Mexico reef fish like snapper or grouper are eligible to take the online training of best practices and upon completion receive $100 worth of release gear for free.

The gear package includes:

• One pre-rigged Standard SeaQualizer™ Descending Device attached to lead weight using a three-way swivel

• One SeaYaLater Fish Release Hook

• One Return ‘Em Right brochure

• One Return ‘Em Right sticker

Sign up here and do your part to preserve our access to quality reef fish action for now and in the future: https://returnemright.org

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The Seaqualizer is

one of several descending

get

SELECTING THE BEST BEAVER TRAP

BY DAVID STRICKLAND

Beavers are fascinating creatures. Given enough time, they will transform the landscape wherever they decide to set up residence. Early explorers noted their significant numbers throughout North America and their role in shaping its landscape.

These large aquatic rodents were responsible for creating extensive wetlands across the continent. In light of their overall positive ecological effect, beavers are sometimes purposely used for environmental restoration efforts to help reestablish and improve watersheds.

Moreover, many conservation organizations and land managers actively promote beaver presence in certain areas and use various techniques to encourage colonies to establish themselves in suitable locations.

Beavers can help create wetlands and also help control erosion and reduce the impact of floods by slowing the flow of water and trapping sediment.

Unfortunately, a single colony can cut down as many as 200 trees a year, and some landowners aren’t willing to donate that amount of timber to uninvited rodent trespassers.

GROWING POPULATION

Under normal conditions, beavers typically give birth to litters of 1-6 kits (baby beavers) each year, with an average litter size of two to three kits. However, the birth rate and family size of wild beavers can vary depending on several factors, including the availability of food and suitable terrain, as well as the overall health of the local population.

Beavers are social animals and live in family groups that can expand into colonies. Typically consisting of a breeding pair of adult beavers and their offspring, these colonies can range in size from just a few individuals to several dozen, depending on the available resources.

Adult beavers force juveniles to leave the colony in late winter and early spring. These juveniles can travel up to four miles to find a suitable site. Once settled, they create new colonies averaging 20-40 acres and a breeding pair left undisturbed can have a dramatic impact in a short time.

Unfortunately, this expansion often results in flooding issues and timber loss for landowners and urban neighborhoods.

POPULATION CONTROL THROUGH TRAPPING

Trapping is a humane and effective way to help control beaver populations when done correctly. However, it’s essential to note that beaver trapping may not be allowed in certain areas, so check your local laws before beginning trapping activities.

Landowners can also contact their local Division of Wildlife & Freshwater

Fisheries Office for a special permit to use a firearm and spotlight to remove a few swimming rodents at night.

When trapping beavers, it’s vital to use humane and effective traps, such as Conibear or footholds. The Conibear trap is designed to kill a beaver quickly and humanely, minimizing suffering. It is also critical to properly set and check the traps regularly to ensure any trapped animals do not suffer needlessly.

Professional trappers are familiar with state and local regulations and have the training and experience to know which traps to use in each situation. Although landowners can legally trap their properties, attending a trapping seminar or enlisting a professional to learn the most effective and safest way to reduce a local beaver population is wise.

Inexperience or using substandard traps and equipment can result in missed or injured animals, potential harm to non-targeted species, mild to severe pain, and even broken bones when handling traps.

TRAP TYPES- SIZE

Here are the most commonly used traps. Each type has distinct advantages when used correctly:

Conibear traps- These are body-gripping traps designed to kill the animal quickly and humanely. These powerful traps are highly effective and are frequently used by professional trappers.

Size- A 330 Conibear made by Belisle or Bridger, is one of the better choices. Only experienced trappers should use these.

Live traps- These cage-like traps allow the live capture of a beaver for relocation elsewhere. They are a humane option but are expensive, bulky, and more difficult to set.

Size- Comstock offers a commercial-grade wire trap with 12 gauge mesh and 40” x 18” x 12” dimensions. Koro & Bailey both offer clam-shell style traps.

Foothold- Commonly known as steel traps, these are designed to grip the beaver’s foot and are often attached to a drowning wire. They require daily checks, and most professional trappers use these.

Size- A CDR-7.5, MB-750, Bridger #5, or TS-85 are all excellent foothold choices.

Snares- Alabama requires snare placement in water. This type of trap uses a wire loop to cinch around the beaver’s body when it tries to swim or walk through the loop. They are simple and inexpensive but require daily monitoring.

Size- A 33 ½ inch length of 1/16” galvanized aircraft cable forms a free-standing 9-10” loop and is ideal for the average beaver. These are

Selecting the Best Beaver Trap

positioned two to three inches off the bottom for underwater runs or by placing 2/3 of the loop underwater for swimming beavers.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT TRAP

The best type of beaver trap to use in any given situation will depend on several factors, including:

• Purpose of trapping- A live trap may be the best option if you are trapping beavers to relocate them. A Conibear or a foothold is more appropriate if you are fur trapping or reducing the population.

• Location of the trap- If you are trapping in an area with a lot of foot traffic from kids or pets, more frequent checks are needed, and a live, padded jaw or snare might be the safest option.

• Type of waterbody- A Conibear or a foothold trap works well if trapping in a slow-moving stream or pond.

• Local regulations- Before setting any trap, it is essential to familiarize yourself with local, state, and federal laws regarding trapping beavers and other wildlife.

• Personal preference- Ultimately, the best type of trap for any situation will depend on your experience and the available resources.

LURES VS. BLIND SETS

When setting beaver traps, blind and lure sets are the two standard techniques to catch beavers. Here’s an overview of each:

Blind sets- A blind set involves positioning a trap where beavers are likely to travel, such as a narrow passage between two bodies of water or a crossover on a dam. The idea is that the beaver will accidentally step on the trap while traveling through the area. Blind sets rely on the beaver’s natural behavior and movement patterns for proper placement.

Lure sets- This method involves placing a trap near a beaver’s food

source or using a scent lure to attract the beaver. The attractant can be anything from a piece of wood coated with beaver castor to a commercial scent that mimics the smell of a beaver’s favorite food. Lure sets rely on the beaver’s sense of smell to attract them to the trap.

Blind sets and lures are each effective for trapping beavers, and many trappers use a combination of both techniques. However, blind sets need to be placed where beavers are known to travel, while lure sets are positioned to attract beavers to locations where they may not normally travel.

Ultimately, the choice between blind and lure sets will depend on the individual trapper’s preference and the specific trapping situation.

Blind sets depend on placing your trap where a beaver enters and exits the water, crosses over a dam, or enters their den.

PLACEMENT

Once a survey of an area is complete, a trapper has a good idea of the local population. Usually, the first few beavers are the easiest to catch in a given area. However, placement becomes more critical if an inexperienced trapper has previously worked a location. In addition, beavers learn after a pinched toe or near miss and become wary of non camouflaged or open sets.

NUANCES

Understanding the nuances and reading the terrain takes time and frequently beavers use holes in steep banks to enter their living space. Other times the distinctive lodge consisting of limbs and mud is easy to spot. Where a beaver enters its den, dam cross-overs, water entry/exits, castor mounds, and along the underwater channels beavers use are the most common spots to set traps.

In any case, it is crucial to use traps responsibly and ethically and check them regularly to ensure that captured animals are not suffering. Also, state law requires trappers to carry catch-poles for the release of non-targeted species.

If you lack experience trapping beavers, it may be best to consult a professional trapper or wildlife control expert. Many state agencies offer trapping workshops for those interested in honing their trapping skills. Check out https://www.outdooralabama.com/trapping for information on how to register for trapping education workshops in Alabama.”

CONCLUSION

Whatever plan you develop or techniques you decide to use, it’s essential to be patient and persistent. Each trapping scenario is different, and although many beavers get caught the first few days of a set, other times, it may take a week or longer.

Also, there is a big difference between effective trapping and efficient trapping. Efficiency can usually only improve with time and field experience.

Understanding that beaver constantly recolonizes suitable sites requires you to remain vigilant for signs that newcomers are slipping back onto your property. Remember, if one beaver decided your property would make a good home, chances are others may return to the same area.

BY MICHAEL PENDLEY

Dutch Oven Beaver Roast

Prep: 30 mins • Cook: 4 hrs • Total: 4 hrs 30 mins

Ingredients

• 1 beaver hindquarter and 2 beaver backstraps, cleaned. About 5 pounds of meat

• 1 pound each of cleaned carrots, onions, and potatoes

• 1/2 cup of vegetable oil

• 1 cup seasoned flour

• 1 beer

• salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Dust the beaver in the seasoned flour. Set the meat aside to allow the flour to stick to the meat.

2. Peel the carrots and onions, quarter the onions and halve or quarter the potatoes if you are using larger than fingerling size.

3. Heat the oil in the Dutch oven. I did this over the gas burner of our camp stove. Step 4 - Once the oil is hot, add the beaver meat. Allow to cook for two to four minutes, then flip and continue cooking until all sides are golden brown.

4. Add the potatoes, carrots, and onions. Season well with salt and pepper.

5. Remember that you are seasoning several pounds of food, don’t skimp. I used about a tablespoon of each.

Sources

https://www.outdooralabama.com/about-us/wildlife-and-freshwater-fisheries-division

https://www.downsouthtrappers.com/

6. Pour over the beer and place the lid on the Dutch oven. I used seven coals under my 12-inch Lodge Dutch oven, then placed an even dozen on top. After a couple hours of cooking, I replenished the charcoal with fresh briquettes, using my kitchen tongs to slide the new coals under the oven.

Images and recipe courtesy of Timber 2 Table Wild Game Recipes and Realtree (https://www.realtree.com/timber-2-table-wild-game-recipes)

Snare at a hut entrance is an easy set

Land investment can also provide a passive annual income . Photo

© Base Camp Leasing

Is Buying Land a Good Investment in 2023?

BY STEPHANIE MALLORY

Investing in these uncertain times can be stressful. With inflation and a looming recession, the market and economy are facing some challenges. While traditional investments, like stocks and bonds are an unsure bet, land investment is a great way to safeguard and preserve wealth over the long haul. As markets fluctuate and traditional investments falter, land investments will usually increase in value over time.

“Purchasing land has been a good investment in Alabama due to the overall market stability over the past several years. According to the USDA Land Values 2022 Summary, farm real estate values increased from 2021 to 2022 by 6.3%. Cropland saw an increase of 9.9% and pastureland saw an increase of 9.4%. In addition, you have the ability to farm, recreate, and improve rural property,” said Tony Hallman, Alabama AG Credit VP senior appraiser.

He said that land values appear to have remained strong in the first quarter of 2023, but that we could see potential economic impacts if interest rates continue to increase or if the recession impact increases. Having said that, in comparison to traditional investments, land is still the most reliable, especially over the long term, investment. In fact, according to the USDA long-term study, Alabama has had only two years of declining land values since 2008.

PASSIVE INCOME OPPORTUNITIES

Hallman explained that in addition to the property’s increase in value over time, passive annual income can be generated through cropland rental (typically $50-$75 per acre for dry cropland), pasture rental (typically $25-$40 per acre dependent on quality) and hunting rental ($6-$25 per acre dependent on location and property features).

Lee Duncan, southern regional manager of Base Camp Leasing, a premium hunting lease provider for the Midwest to the East Coast, said many landowners are not aware of the amount of passive income they can make from their property.

In fact, many landowners feel obligated to lease to friends or neighbors for a low price and have been leasing for that same low amount for years and years.

“Some landowners don’t think about leasing their land, or they’re just leasing it out to the average Joe down the street for very little money, but there are hunters out there willing to pay a good price to lease land,” Duncan said.

“One of the leases I just took over was a 100-acre tract that the owner has been getting $6 an acre for. He’s now getting almost $19 an acre that’s going directly into his pocket,” Duncan said.

According to Duncan the price per acre to lease land varies per state, but in general, if the landowner works with Base Camp Leasing, they can pocket between $20 to $40 an acre per year lease.

Landowners can also earn good money through timber cuts on the property. Depending on the property and trees available, select clearcuts can be done

every 15 to 25 years.

Hallman said the challenges with timberland investment is the time between cash flow opportunities.

“Pine timber is typically thinned two to three times with a final harvest over a 30- to 35-year time frame. The first stream of income typically comes around age 15. Therefore, any land improvements completed before the first 15 years are out-of-pocket improvements,” Hallman said.

In addition to monetary value, leasing your land to hunters provides additional value as well.

“When you have a group of guys scouting and hunting your property, that means there are more eyes to keep a watch out for trespassers who may be poaching, cutting timber or stealing. You have more eyes to protect that investment. In addition, some hunters will even make lucrative improvements to the property. They may put in small food plots or plant trees and they will often help maintain fences and roads. All of these things would normally cost the landowner time, effort and money,” Duncan noted.

Renowned whitetail biologist Grant Woods, Ph.D., with GrowingDeer.TV, says purchasing land not only offers an eventual financial return but you can enjoy an immediate recreational return.

“When I buy stock in Apple or Walmart, I don’t get a lot of joy out of those stocks, but my family and I can enjoy hunting, fishing, riding four wheelers and other activities on the land I purchase until I sell it,” Woods said.

RISKS TO CONSIDER

There are risks when it comes to purchasing and owning land, but Woods says many of the risks can be mitigated if you do a bit of research and pay attention to the area surrounding the land you’re interested in purchasing.

“Check out the neighborhood. If you’re buying land for recreational purposes, you won’t want to buy it if someone is planning to build a big factory next door. Try to get an idea of future plans for the area. And don’t expect to get big returns if you buy land in a poor area,” Woods said.

Other risks have to do with what may happen on the land after you purchase it.

Hallman explained that the risk of owning property is typical of owning any type of real estate. Owners face potential lawsuits if an accident were to occur on their property. But the exposure potential can be mitigated by requiring renters to maintain an insurance policy to cover potential hazards.

Duncan recommended getting a vacant land policy, so if someone wanders onto your land and gets hurt, you’ll be covered.

“If you have a hunting lease, you can require those hunting your land to get liability insurance in case they get hurt on the property,” Duncan said.

THE RIGHT PIECE OF LAND

When searching for property to purchase, Duncan said to look for something with diversity, such as water, fields, hardwoods and ample wildlife. For it to make a viable hunting lease, the property needs to span at least 40 acres. If you have a very large piece of property, you can break it up into smaller tracts that you lease out to various groups of hunters.

“Of course, marketability is affected by several factors, such as location (proximity to major cities or markets), soil quality, land class (timberland, pastureland, cropland), access (paved county road, dirt road, no legal access), properties’ location to the flood zone and low-lying areas, zoning, and topography,” Hallman said.

When it comes to purchasing land, Hallman said the loan process for ag-related land differs from residential real estate in terms of expected down payments, interest rates, etc.

“The terms offered by Alabama Ag Credit are very similar to residential real estate with the ability to loan 85% on most transactions for an extended term. Typically mortgage rates for residences are lower than long-term financing on rural property,” Hallman said.

SO, WHEN SHOULD YOU TRY TO SELL YOUR PROPERTY?

“The market is warm right now, and property is selling quickly. I imagine it will stay that way for a while, but you never really know how long it will take to sell a piece of land. Even if you want to sell quickly, it may be better to wait a while because land typically increases in value over the years,” Duncan said.

Hallman said there are currently several buyers that are waiting for opportunities to own land in Alabama.

“In speaking with several realtors across the state, they have lists of potential purchasers waiting for the ideal piece of property that meets their clients’ needs. Several properties are currently being contracted before they hit the open market due to the current demand for Alabama Real Estate,” he said.

“In the heights of COVID-19, the demand for rural land began to increase, due to individuals having more free time with their families. Many individuals purchased real estate for sheer recreational enjoyment and a place to make memories with their families. These investors weren’t looking for appreciation in land value, but a place of solitude to get away,” Hallman said. “However, according to the USDA Land Survey, average farm real estate has increased from $3,160 in 2020 to $3,800 in 2022 (this study covers all land classes). With this information provided, some of the individuals that purchased land in 2020 have seen an appreciation in land value 20-25%,”

As a registered forester with the State of Alabama, Hallman has always been interested in productive rural Alabama real estate and encourages others to invest in this lucrative resource.

“Over the last 24 years, I have surrounded myself with landowners from all backgrounds and have met some of the most successful individuals who just took a chance and purchased that first piece of land. I believe investing in Alabama real estate is a good way to balance a portfolio that is weighted heavily in the stock market,” Hallman said.

Land investment can provide an immediate recreational return Photo © Base Camp Leasing

n SPECIAL YOUTH HUNT: SATURDAY & SUNDAY THE WEEK PRIOR TO THE OPENING OF SPRING SEASON. (DECOYS ALLOWED)

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SEASON - MARCH 25 - MAY 8 – DECOYS ALLOWED STARTING APRIL 4

GAME CHECK IS MANDATORY FOR EVERY TURKEY HUNTER

FOR COMPLETE DETAILS ON THE SEASON AND BAG LIMITS FOR THE 2023 TUKEY SEASON SCAN THE QR CODE. SCAN THE CODE 877.314.1237 // GreatDaysOutdoors.com // May 2023 23

While many shaky head jigs are small, they often catch quality bass, fooling fish that are too wary to bite other types of lures . (Frank Sargeant)

Shaky Head Rig Fishing Explained

BY FRANK SARGEANT

Shaky-head bass lures have been around at least since the 1980’s when a Coosa River angler converted a tiny 1/8 ounce crappie jig into a bass lure by the simple change of molding the small lead head on a 2/0 hook rather than the standard size 2, and adding a slightly longer soft plastic tail. The lure was originally aimed at catching the spotted bass of the Coosa River lakes, but it was quickly discovered that largemouths and smallmouths could be also fooled with it and a new genre of lures was created.

William Davis of Davis Bait Company in Sylacauga, Alabama, also created a similar jig-and-worm combo around this same time and he named his lures “Shaky Heads”, so he is the father of the name and also holder of the patent. Davis Industries still makes a variety of shaky head jigs (www. davisbait.com)

The lure was quickly improved by bending the hook just behind the lead weight, so that the soft plastic stood upright when the lure was on bottom and also adding a screw-wire attachment to hold the lure head in place.

Anglers also learned to make the lures almost totally snagless by burying the point back into the plastic of the lure, similar to Texas rigging, but without running the hook all the way through the worm to get the job done.

The advantages of the shaky head are many, but the first is that bass often eat them when they turn up their noses at conventional lures.

One of the reasons is that the shaky head can be kept right in front of the nose of a fish laying on a stump or a rock or a ledge, simply dancing and shaking while scarcely moving forward at all.

The weedless rigging of the lure along with the (usually) light weight also means it can be hopped through heavy brush and treetops without snagging.

THE RIGHT WEIGHT AND STYLE

Basic shaky head jigs come in weights from 1/16 to ¼ ounce, all with hooks sized to match the soft plastic lures designed for bass. Some are designed to sit at near 90 degrees, some at about 60 degrees and some to lie flat on the bottom.

Most are held in place by a screw wire projecting from the lead head, but some like the Gamakatsu Skip Gap have a kink in the hook shank, designed to hold small, thin worms in place without tearing the plastic as the screw sometimes does.

Bass Pro Shops, Buckeye Lures, Davis Industries, Dirty Jigs, Gamakatsu, Keitech, Owner, VMC and Z-Man among many others all make small shaky head jigs.

Z-Man also makes a jig called the Texas Eye, with a weight attached

loosely to the eye of the hook, adding additional movement when a soft plastic is rigged on the dogleg hook. A few companies even add small swimmer plates on the jigs, so that they wobble when pulled up off the bottom, or wire weedguards to make them extra snag-free.

Shaky heads are not limited to finesse sizes, however.

Big Bite Baits Magnum Worm Head is built specifically for oversized plastics, with a stout 6/0 Gamakatsu hook. It’s available in weights from 3/8 to ¾ of an ounce. The Dirty Jigs Magnum line is also available in weights to ¾ ounce and hook sizes to 5/0. Davis Industries also makes oversized shaky heads with wide gap hooks designed especially for large soft plastics. This not only allows fishing shaky heads in deep water, high current situations, but also plunging the lures through weed mats when flippin’.

TACKLE FOR SHAKY HEADS

For anglers who fish smaller shaky head jigs of 1/16 to 3/16 ounce and the small plastics that fit them best, this is spinning reel country. A size 1500 to 2500 reel, 7’ to 7’3”medium light rods with fast tips and mono or fluorocarbon line testing 6 to 10 pounds is the ticket. Avoid the temptation to use heavier line. You won’t lose as many jigs but you won’t catch as many fish, either, because the light baits don’t cast well or dance and shake well on stronger, stiffer lines.

Some anglers prefer to load the spool with eight pound-test braid, which gives a better feel of the bottom as well as the bite of a bass. The rig is finished off with at least five feet of 6- to 10-pound test fluorocarbon leader, and some anglers use twice that because of the low visibility of fluoro. A double uniknot or FG knot connects line and leader.

On the other hand, anglers who use big shaky heads, to ¾ ounces, can readily fish them on their choice of baitcasting gear, with a medium to medium heavy power, fast-tip rod 6’10” to 7’ best suited to chunking the larger weights. Most anglers spool castable fluorocarbon of 16- to 20-pound test for this duty.

THE RIGHT SOFT PLASTICS

Most anglers rig shaky head jigs with floating soft plastics, so that the lure wants to stand up off bottom and wave that flexible tail around with every twitch of the rod. TPE plastics, which have exceptionally high buoyancy as well as being very soft and super tough, are favorites for many anglers.

The tails can be anything from a slim three inch grub or crawfish style to fat 8” to 12” worms and lizards. Generally, lures with fairly thin or narrow heads are preferred for the smaller jigs because the hooks are not huge. You want the hook to be buried just enough to avoid snags, but ready to pop out and stick the fish on a hook set. Larger heads with bigger hooks can fish “fatter” baits of your choice.

Many of Z-Man’s Elaztech lures do the job including particularly the Bang-

stick Z, with a fat forward section and tiny waving tail tentacles. Hyperlastic’s Worm-Stick is also good. Small ribbon-tail worms like the Strike King Rage Cut-R 6” and the Keitech Easy Shaker worms also work well, but sometimes the fish just want a nubbin on the jig, like the Strike King Ocho Zoom Baits six inch Shakey Head Worm has a fat head and a very slim tail that makes it ideal for rigging on the screw-type holder.

Berkley’s PowerBait lineup is particularly good for shaky head fishing because the lure stays in one spot long enough to put out a strong scent field, increasing chances a bass that gets interested will go ahead and inhale the lure.

Color preference is often in the eye of the angler, but if you’re fishing open water close to shad schools it makes sense to go with silvers, whites and grays that look shad-like. If you’re shaking on the bottom around the cover, on the other hand, pumpkin green with a dash of orange like a crawfish or any of the brownish/black shades of other crawly critters usually works better.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT WEIGHT

Lighter is generally better for a shaky head because the lighter lure flutters down to bottom and is often hit as it falls, and also because the lighter heads snag less often.

The lighter heads can also work well with forward scan sonar because of the slow sink rate—spot suspended fish on screen, make the cast, watch the lure flutter down to them and set the hook when you feel the “thump”.

Note that some heads show up well on forward scan, some not so well— some anglers say that tungsten head jigs like those from Keitech and others have a sharper signature on screen than lead, and of course the larger the head, the more easily the electronics can “see” it, whether lead, tungsten or other materials.

There are times when heavy weights do the job better, as in the fast current below dams. Also, for anglers who want to try shaky heads in flippin’ through weed mats and other surface cover, the heavier heads are a must to get the baits down where the fish can see them—a half-ounce up does the job.

HOW TO WORK THEM

The most important trick in fishing a shaky head is to learn that instead of the pull-and-drop most of us use in fishing many types of soft plastics, the shaky does best when it sits in one place, sometimes for two or three minutes, simply dancing a jig, the soft tail jittering over the head as you lightly twitch the rod tip. Particularly for hard-fished bass in clear water, this retrieve—or lack of retrieve—can convert lookers to biters.

After you’ve given the lure a thorough shaking anywhere you have reason to believe bass are hanging over it watching, it’s time to give it a short hop, then another brief shaking, then a hop, etc.

If you feel the lure crawling over brush, large rocks or stumps slow down again and shake the rod repeatedly.

And if it falls off a ledge, follow it down with the rod, let it land, and then start shaking again.

Clearly, shaky head jigs are not a tool to cover water rapidly.

But if you’re in an area where you know there are fish—either because you can see them on screen or because you caught them there yesterday—the slow, thorough going over with the shaky head can be a big producer, even on days when other lures just won’t produce.

Shaky head jigs range in size from tiny 1/8 ounce sizes with 1/0 hooks to jumbo 3/4 ounce models with 6/0’s, and include some with flexible attachments to the lead head as well as some with wire weedguards. An assortment of soft plastics, including high-floating TPE designs and scented plastics all work well (Frank Sargeant)

Boar Hunting with a Spear

BY JOHN E. PHILLIPS

A hog like this one can cause plenty of hurt, if a hunter tries to take him with a spear, but I was lucky and stayed safe .

Hunting savage wild hogs with a spear is a dangerous sport and has a history almost as old as mankind itself. Homer, the Greek historian, wrote about boar hunting centuries before Christ was born. The Greek god, Hercules, was said to be a boar hunter, and the legendary King Arthur of early English mythology was reported to have hunted wild pigs. In India, lancers practiced their skills by taking wild hogs with spears from a horse. Ancient tombs contained drawings depicting hog hunting with spears.

The men who hunted the savage boar had great respect for the animal’s ability to cut and maim. An old hunting guide in India once claimed that a wild boar was tough enough to drink water between tigers, and there are actual accounts of tigers being fought and killed by boars. Hog hunting was so popular in the 19th century that one sportsman wrote, “If fox hunting is the sport of kings, then pig sticking is surely the sport of everyone else.”

So, hunting hogs with a spear wasn’t a new idea when I decided to undertake my hunt. However, I didn’t uncover two important facts about the sport until my hunt for a wild boar with a spear had ended. The first pig hunters usually hunted in teams, so one man could distract the hog, while the others speared the pig from different angles. Once the horse was domesticated, most hunters left the ground for the safety of the horse’s back.

THE U.S.’S WILD HOG HISTORY

Many tales exist as to when wild hogs were introduced into America. History does reveal that some of the first stock was domestic swine released around farms by colonists to fend for themselves. In the spring, the hogs were tolled up, captured in traps where they were marked to show ownership and then either released or taken to market.

The first European boars brought into this country were introduced into a game park in Sullivan County, New Hampshire, by Austin Corbin in the early 1890s from Germany’s Black Forest. Another introduction of wild European boar was made in the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina after World War II. In the early part of the 20th century, an Englishman named George Moore leased a large portion of land near Hooper Bald, a few miles past the Tennessee and North Carolina state line in North Carolina, to set-up a game sanctuary. In 1910, he brought in crates filled with wild boars and released them, with some eventually escaping into the Great Smoky Mountains where they interbred with feral and domestic hogs.

WHY I WANTED TO SPEAR HUNT FERAL HOGS

“You’re going to do what with a what?” a friend of mine asked when I tried to explain that I wanted to take a wild boar with a spear like European nobility once did. “Well, John, if you want to hunt hogs the old way, I think you should hunt hogs with a tradition behind them, hogs with ancestors that have been in this country ever since Europeans came here and have a lineage that can be traced back to before the days of the American Revolution. You should hunt the Savannah River swamp hogs on the Bostick Plantation near Estill, South Carolina. The forebearers of these hogs were released by the members of the Bostick family when they came to this country with a land grant from the King of England.”

When I contacted the then manager at the Bostick Plantation, he also asked, “You want to do what? John, do you realize the hogs we hunt have long, sharp tusks that can kill a dog and cripple a man? Hunting hogs with a spear is dangerous business.”

I admitted I was somewhat apprehensive but explained, “I’m not trying to

prove anything. But I’d like to gain a greater insight into this very-old method of hunting.”

Part of my interest in boar hunting had come from a Christmas present my wife had given me of my Phillips’ family coat of arms that featured on its top a black boar head with big tusks on it, and the words, “Spero meliora,” which translated meant, “I aspire to greater things.” It also had numerous small boars’ heads in its center.

For the hunt, I chose the famous Puma spear made in Germany, that’s still available today, that featured a heavy, forged, carbon-steel point and a solid-wood handle wrapped with leather and studded to prevent my hands from slipping. The trip was set-up.

HOW THE HUNT PROGRESSED

We hunted hard the first day of my wild boar hunt in South Carolina but couldn’t find the size of hog I wanted to take. My guide had a quality pack of dogs, including bay dogs and catch dogs. I quickly realized that hunting for wild hogs in a swamp wasn’t for the faint-hearted. Within the first 30 minutes, we had waded one thigh-high creek, crawled through three briar patches and been beaten by one very-thick cane thicket. Because of the cover’s thickness, I realized that wielding the spear might be difficult. However, I had faith in my guide and his experienced and courageous hounds.

Since there’s no closed season on feral pigs in South Carolina, sportsmen hunt wild hogs with hounds year-round. The traditional method of taking a hog is to chase it. When the dogs bay the pig, the guide usually moves quickly and deliberately behind the hog and grabs it by its hind legs, throwing it to the ground. The hunter then goes in with a knife with at least a five inch blade and made of heavy enough metal to put a hog down. He grabs the pig’s front legs, rolls the animal over and blades the tusker between its forelegs. Another technique sometimes utilized is to come in behind the guide and take the boar with a handgun.

The next day we’d been hunting for about three hours when we heard the bay dogs bark as they ran through the bushes and brambles. The foot race toward danger was on, as we heard the squealing and grunting of a wild pig. When we arrived at the scene, the catch dog, a 60-pound bulldog, was turned loose. The dog went in quickly and deliberately, grabbed the 150-pound pig’s ear and held on, while my guide circled the animal, grabbed the hog’s hind legs and threw it to the ground. We then realized that the hog wasn’t trophy quality either.

The hunt continued, and shortly we cornered a second hog – a trophy boar of about 250 pounds with sharp tusks and a huge head. My guide said, “Take the hog now if you want to while I hold him.”

I lunged with all the power I could muster to drive the blade of the spear between the boar’s two front shoulders, much like a matador would take a bull with his sword. Although I thought the gap between the boar’s formidable shoulder shields would be larger, I quickly learned that the gap was no more than 1/2- to 1/4-inch wide. Even if the boar was hit, the shield would pinch together to prevent the spear from penetrating. I’d spent hours with a grinding stone and a whetstone to be certain the spear was sharp, but when I tried to drive it home, it hit the hog’s armored plates and penetrated no more than 1/8-inch.

My guide then said, “You’d have been in a world of hurt if I’d let that hog go.

My Christmas present of the Phillips’ family coat of arms with a black boar’s head with big tusks and numerous small boars’ heads on it made me anxious to try the sport of spear hunting boars .

I’ve seen hogs keep on running after being hit on the shoulder or between the shoulders with #00 buckshot. The only place you’ll probably be able to take the hog is to hit him under his throat when the hog throws his head up to escape.”

Following his instructions, I lunged again, this time for the boar’s throat. The Puma spear did the job it was designed to do. The tusker fell.

WHAT ELSE I LEARNED ABOUT SPEAR HUNTING BOARS

Hog hunting with a spear is a dangerous sport that shouldn’t be taken lightly. If you face a hog in open terrain with a spear, your odds of surviving the encounter and actually bagging the boar without injury may be slim. However, if you do plan to try and down a tusker, use a spear that you’ve spent hours sharpening, and one that has enough mass to it like mine to stop the wild boar’s charge.

Always listen to an experienced boar-hunting guide. If he says the situation is too dangerous, follow his recommendations. Do more research into the sport of hog hunting with a spear. Thousands of men have faced the slashing tusks of wild pigs throughout the centuries. Remember, a wild boar can hurt you, and no trophy is worth a hospital stay.

BIGGEST U.S. WILD BOARS

Although most of the heaviest wild boars ever taken have come primarily from Texas, California, Alabama and Georgia, Louisiana and Florida also hold some wild-boar weight records. Two of the largest free-ranging wild boars on record were taken by hunters in Arkansas in 2017 that weighed 792.88 pounds, and Texas in 2010 that weighed 789.25 pounds. Go to www.wwtworldrecords.com to learn more.

Once the hunt for the wild boar was over, I was thankful to be unharmed, have my hog on a truck and have all the guides and dogs that helped me accomplish this feat in good health .

The Jackson Knarr provides bicyclestyle pedaling for propulsion in even shallow water .

Hobie’s Pro Angler is comes in 12’ or 14’ lengths, and their Mirage pedal-drive uses their patented Break-away fin technology .

What to Look for in Bass Fishing Kayaks

BY DAVID STRICKLAND

A HISTORY OF KAYAKS

Modern kayaks have evolved from animal skins stretched around bone and wood frames into sleek carbon fiber designs weighing less than 20 pounds.. Our current models are distant cousins to small, narrow boats that indigenous people used in the Arctic regions for thousands of years.

Kayak comes from the Inuit indian word ”qayaq”, which means “a small boat of skins.” This narrow vessel was once used exclusively by men using a double-bladed paddle for propulsion.

The traditional Inuit kayak was a lightweight, nimble craft for use in the harsh Arctic environment of Alaska, Canada, and Greenland. The kayaks were coated with animal fat to waterproof the skins and prevent them from becoming brittle.

Many Eskimos wore a tight-fitting waterproof jacket called a tuilik when paddling their vessels. The buoyant coat was laced around the cockpit’s raised rim and acted as a spray shield. It also cinched tightly around their wrists and faces, allowing them to flip upright if the boat rolled over. In addition, they placed air-filled seal bladders inside the front and rear of the hull to provide extra buoyancy.

Eskimos used kayaks for hunting, fishing, and transportation due to their stability, speed, and maneuverability. In addition, the Inuit refined a rolling technique to right their kayaks if they capsized, an essential survival skill in rough, frigid Arctic waters.

MODERN KAYAKS

Kayaking has become a popular sport and recreational activity around the world. Newer designs and better materials have resulted in more stable platforms widely used for fishing in lakes, rivers, and saltwater. In addition to fiberglass and plastic, carbon fiber and Kevlar are also used in their construction.

Bass kayaks come with rail mounting systems, storage, and propulsion that rival small bass boats. In addition, everything is operator-convenient, with plenty of room for the latest electronics.

PEDAL DRIVES VS. PADDLE

Do you really need the pedal propulsion drive? The short answer is no. That answer also assumes you have good upper body strength and stamina. Hobie and Jackson’s Kayak’s pedal drive options offer convenience and speed while reducing fatigue.

Non-powered traditional kayak shapes are agile and better suited for rapids, including whitewater. In addition, many younger kayakers enjoy paddling and the weight and cost savings are substantial compared to mechanical or electric-driven models.

BASS KAYAKS

Several companies now produce kayaks designed for bass fishing and the

past ten years have seen a dramatic increase in their popularity. These fishing platforms have open cockpits, and their sit-on-top design provides better storage and easier entry and exit.

These larger, stable Bass kayaks also offer stand-up casting, comfortable, adjustable seating, rod holders, tackle storage, rail mounting, pedal drive, and more.

BUCK’S ISLAND

I reached out to Jeff Chappel at Buck’s Island Marina, located on the Coosa River just south of Gadsden, Alabama. Chappel is in sales and their go-to guy when it comes to kayaks. He explained how he helps match customers with a boat that fits their needs and experience level.

Chappel views his job as that of an Outfitter rather than a salesman. Standing 6’5”, Jeff can quickly alleviate any fears that kayaks are only for small or regular-sized people.

Chappel pointed out that how a prospective buyer answers a few questions helps him to determine a customer’s best options.

“With a budget in mind and how they’ll be using it, finding the right model and accessories is easier,” Chappel noted.

Buck’s Island has an extensive inventory with models and features for anyone looking to upgrade or buy their first fishing kayak and Chappel pointed out that Buck’s stocks models for kids, whitewater enthusiasts, and the professional bass angler.”

BEST BASS KAYAKS

Hobie and Jackson Kayaks have been two of the industry leaders in transforming the kayak platform into something resembling the marriage of a canoe and a traditional “sit-inside” kayak. While Buck’s Island sells several brands Hobie and Jackson are what serious anglers prefer.

Hobie and Jackson offer pedal-drive propulsion systems mounted into a shallow well near the seat. Each utilizes pedals that look and function similarly to a recumbent bicycle, and steering knobs attached to wired rudders allow easy maneuvering when using the pedal drives.

Chappel said that besides purchasing a good paddle, a premium model Jackson bass kayak is ready to launch and begin fishing and that Hobie includes a paddle with their package. He recommends Bending Branch paddles as an excellent lightweight option for any kayak model.

BIG-BOY KAYAKS

Taller folks and those carrying a little extra weight can choose between several models that provide comfort and stability for anyone up to 350 pounds. Two-person models are also available.

Hobie Pro Angler- At 13’8”, their Pro Angler model has an adjustable seat

that provides all-day comfort for anglers up to 350 pounds. A 600 pound weight capacity and 38” beam provides comfort, stability, and enough rod and gear storage for tournament fishing men & women. In addition, it can handle big water and inshore saltwater equally well.

Anglers can choose between two pedal-drive options with forward and reverse and accessories that include live wells, well & stern-mounted Torqueedo trolling motors, a sailing kit, and more.

Outback- With a fitted hull weight of 85 pounds and a seating capacity of 275 pounds, this lighter model is one of the most popular kayaks in the water. Its 34” width and 425 pound weight capacity offers a lightweight package for easy transport and plenty of speed with the pedal-drive options.

Jackson Knarr- Jackson designed this model to address the challenges of the wind and waves on larger lakes and even the ocean. Its wider hull and taller gunnels help prevent overspray, and its new patented pedal drive makes the difficulties of navigating shallow water a snap due to its hinged design.

At 13’9” with a 37” width, it has a 425 lb. weight capacity and weighs 140 lbs. this model checks all the boxes for the serious angler.

Chappel said that Jackson developed an electric motor option compatible with their Flex Drive-equipped boats. The Flex-drive E quickly interchanges with the pedal drive unit, weighs less than eight pounds, and stores within the boat’s hatch with a lithium battery. A single knob controls forward-re-

verse and speed, so converting from pedal to electric drive is accomplished in mere minutes. At five mph with a range of up to 41 miles, it’s a great choice when traveling greater distances.

Coosa FD- Jackson offers another slightly smaller pedal-driven option for larger lakes and reservoirs but is still stable enough for inshore saltwater fishing. At 12’7” and 35” wide, it has a capacity of 450 pounds. with a weight of 107 pounds..

CONCLUSION

Knowing where to begin your search or what kayak you need for bass fishing can be daunting, especially if you’re new to the sport.

I suggest beginning your search for a new or used bass kayak with a phone call to Jeff Chappel, an Outfitter who works for Buck’s Island Marina. He can answer any question about the best kayak for bass fishing, review your choices, and even set up a test ride to see what kayak works best for you and your entire family.

Contact Information

Buck’s Island Marine https://www.bucksisland.com/ Jeff Chappell 4500 Hwy 77 Southside, AL 35907 1-800-467-3239

Visit Buck’s Island to see and test drive one of their many models of kayaks designed especially for anglers

Trolling Fishing Tactics for Saltwater Pelagics

BY ED MASHBURN

It has been said by some that offshore trolling for pelagic gamefish in the Gulf is simply a combination of hours of boredom punctuated with bursts of panic and total excitement. If that’s the case, it would seem that anyone thinking about getting into the offshore trolling game might want to do everything possible to minimize the boredom and maximize the excitement.

Offshore trolling for the biggest of big game fish is an activity that does require some proper rigging and tackle preparation as well as some pre-trip homework to determine the best places to pull offerings for the big traveling fish offshore anglers seek.

Professional Captain Adam Peeples is a veteran Destin, Florida guide who says pelagic trolling is a team thing.

“Whether we’re trolling for tuna, wahoo, big bull dolphin, or billfish, it takes a team of anglers fishing in the right place for success,” he said.

EXPERT ADVICE- LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

When trolling offshore for big pelagic fish, where the trolling is done is more important than how the trolling is done.

“When you’re trolling offshore for pelagics, if they’re doing the right things in the wrong place, you’re wasting time. If you’re in the right place doing the wrong thing, you probably are still going to get some fish,” Peeples advised.

Even though trolling around more or less permanent structures offshore like gas and oil rigs and FADs, these might not always be the best places to find quality pelagic fish.

“These structures are easy to find, but they all get lots of pressure. I’d rather find good open water to find less pressured fish. I’ve found the open water areas to be best for bigger fish,” Peeples said..

Another point for offshore pelagic trollers to keep in mind is water temperature. In fact, water temperature is a primary concern when looking for big fish along with other components that are all major factors.

“The right water temp, especially in spring and fall, is crucial. I pay attention to water temp breaks. I’m looking for 72-to-74-degree water. And there’s really nothing like referring to past experience to find pelagic fish at specific times of the year. Pay attention to where you’ve had good days. Your experience is the main thing,” Peeples noted.. “Water color, chlorophyll, current, weed lines and seeing bait, when trolling offshore you should look for nature’s indicators.”

Actual bottom structure can be important for offshore pelagic trolling.

“Especially when bottom topography is combined with current, water color- topography is my fallback when other things are not present,” Peeples.explained. “If there’s nothing to hold the fish or concentrate the fish in any other area that we can see, maybe the topography is going to do it.”

“Sometimes it’s just a coin toss. You have to have a little bit of luck to catch fish. I mean, you just go with your gut- whatever feels right. And sometimes you guess wrong- sometimes you guess right.” says Peeples.

HILTON’S REALTIME NAVIGATOR CAN BE A GREAT HELP

Let’s face it, the Gulf of Mexico is a massive place, and the Gulf does not have flashing signs which tell the trolling angler “Fish here! Big Fish are here!”

However, with a little help from experts and with some guidance using the most up to date technical equipment, the search for big pelagic fish in the Gulf can be made quite a bit easier- and less expensive.

“Hilton’s is an invaluable tool to use, and figure out, and the cool thing about that system is, Tom (Hilton) has some great tutorials and available online videos to watch. Heck, you can even call them and they’ll talk you through it.” Peeples explained.

The services to offshore pelagic trollers by Hiltons Realtime Navigator are extensive. It allows anglers to view in days preceding an offshore trip different image of the Gulf, determine tendencies in current and conditions, and determine what areas hold the most promise for holding fish- and also areas which are not likely to hold fish. This pre-trip knowledge can save a lot of time, effort, and let’s be honest here- money.

Some of the services provided by Hiltons are sea temperature imagery, Nav Tool- to help set up the course to good trolling water, a trip planner allows anglers to plot start point and waypoints up to fifteen different waypoints, and this information is printable. Hilton’s pays quite a bit of money for information on floating rigs which can and do change their location. This eliminates a long run to a trolling area only to find the floating rig has been relocated far away.

AND IF YOU’RE SETTING UP ON YOUR OWN OFFSHORE CENTER CONSOLE BOAT

“If I’m on a center console, which I normally am when trolling, I am usually trolling 30 wide reels with an occasional 50 wide. The rods need to have a nice tip that loads up nicely, but they need a good backbone so that when you do get a bite, if you’ve got too much soft tip on a trolling rod, you don’t get that good hookset. So, this is kind of a

Anglers can set up a center console to be a very effective offshore trolling boat

Trolling Fishing Tactics for Saltwater Pelagics combination of tip but backbone,” Peeples pointed out.

“I have hollow core backing of 600 yards and I have 250 yards of top shot of 50-pound mono on top. The key is, when you’re trolling, the line has got to be mono,” he said. “You’re asking for big trouble if you’re putting braid out there. You need mono for several reasons: for stretch, and for not cutting other things off if you get a tangle.”

Peeples feels that outriggers are vital pieces of your trolling success kit.

“Outriggers are vital pieces of equipment to effectively troll a spread especially from a center console- which are not very wide. A lot of trolling lures are just not going to run really well at the line angle running off the gunnel. Yes, outriggers to me are- you got to have them if you’re serious about catching fish trolling,” Peeples said.

“It’s a team effort- it really is. Even if you’re not the guy on the rod, you can get involved and be a part of catching that fish. I have always felt like when we’re trolling and we catch a fish, everybody catches that fish. It’s just a fun way to fish.” he concluded.

Breeo Vs Solo Stove Smokeless Fire Pits Review

BY JOE BAYA

A fire pit on your deck is a great gathering place for friends and family .

Breeo and Solo Stove are two popular brands that make smokeless fire pits. Both products are designed to burn wood efficiently and create a smokeless fire experience. I own both and have tested them extensively in a variety of environments for many years. If you are comparing Breeo vs Solo Stove, you will find everything you need in this article to determine which one is the best for you.

Best for Camping: Solo Stove Ranger 2.0

Best for Cooking: Breeo X Series Smokeless Grilling Bundle

Best for Backyards: Breeo X Series

Easiest to Clean: Solo Stove Yukon 2.0

Most Durable: Breeo X Series

Best Burn: Solo Stove Yukon 2.0

Best Overall: Solo Stove Bonfire

BEST OVERALL, BEST BURN, EASIEST TO CLEAN: SOLO STOVE YUKON OR SOLO STOVE BONFIRE

The Yukon 2.0 or Solo Stove Bonfire is my best overall pick depending on one factor, how cold it gets where you enjoy your fire pit. For colder nights, I appreciate the added size of the Yukon as it puts out more heat and accepts larger pieces of wood. You don’t need a special tool to clean these fire pits. The new, removable ash pan rests under the removable base plate, catching all the fine ash in one place. Just lift the base plate to remove the ash pan, clean out its contents, and that’s it! This fire pit puts off significantly more heat than the bonfire but you give up the portability and ease of storage.

BEST FOR COOKING: BREEO X SERIES SMOKELESS GRILLING BUNDLE

The X Series grilling bundle is perfect for the grilling enthusiast looking to take their game to the next level. The Grilling Bundle gives you the benefits of an X Series fire pit, with all the basics you need to maximize your cooking and entertaining. The Grilling Bundles includes your choice of any X Series fire pit, Outpost Grill, Lid, and Ash Shovel. The Breeo outpost grill cooks the best steak I’ve ever had, and because it nests into the firepit itself, it’s perfect for use on pavers or on a deck. Interesting side note, the outpost grill can easily be used with a solo stove as long as you are on soft enough ground to hammer in the stake. I personally camp with a Solo Stove bonfire with the Breeo Outpost Grill.

BREEO VS SOLO STOVE SMOKELESS FIREPITS SPECIFICATIONS TO CONSIDER

When considering purchasing a smokeless fire pit, there are several specifications that you should consider to ensure that you choose the right one for your needs. Here are some of the key specifications to keep in mind:

BEST FOR BACKYARDS AND MOST DURABLE: BREEO X SERIES

The X Series elevates your campfire experience by eliminating the frustration of traditional fires and creating a centerpiece to gather around. Breeo’s most versatile fire pit, the X24 is the perfect size for hosting friends and family and includes all the cooking capabilities you’ll need. This firepit is built tougher than the solo stove, but you pay for that in increased weight and decreased portability. If you are looking for a backyard pit, you’ll like this model, but if you move your fire pit around a lot, such as camping / rving, look to the solo stove.

• Size: Consider the size of the fire pit to ensure that it will fit in the space where you plan to use it. You’ll also want to consider the size of the fire pit’s burning area, as this will impact how much wood it can hold and how much heat it can produce.

• Design: Both Breeo and Solo Stove offer different designs and sizes of fire pits, but their primary focus is on portable and efficient (smokeless) fire pits. Breeo fire pits typically have a more traditional and rustic look, while Solo Stove fire pits have a more modern and sleek look.

• Weight: If you are planning to set up your fire pit and leave it, this is less of a concern. I personally use my Solo Stove for camping and keeping in my RV. My Breeo stays at home. The Breeo is significantly heavier and would be a disadvantage moving it from campsite to campsite.

• Materials: Breeo fire pits are made of heavy-duty steel, while Solo Stove fire pits are made of stainless steel. The materials used by both brands are durable and can withstand high temperatures. In my experience the Breeo is “tougher” than the Solo Stove.

• Smoke Reduction: Both Breeo and Solo Stove fire pits are designed to reduce smoke. They achieve this by incorporating a double-walled design that creates a natural convection effect that circulates air and burns the wood more efficiently, resulting in less smoke. In my experience with both, The solo Stove seems to burn slightly more efficiently than the Breeo, but I cannot say that it makes enough of a difference to be a deciding factor. The Solo Stove seems to burn smokeless faster than the Breeo, but once both get going, the efficiency is acceptable on either.

BEST FOR CAMPING: SOLO STOVE RANGER 2.0

The Ranger 2.0 is the fire pit sized for every adventure. Weighing in at just over 15 pounds, this fire pit was made to move. Spark up smokeless adventures everywhere you go– whether you’re camping, tailgating, partying at the beach, or just redecorating your outdoor oasis, pack up your fire pit in the included carry case and get moving. I personally use the bonfire for my camping trips, but it does take up quite a bit of room which can make transporting it challenging depending on your setup.

• Price: Breeo fire pits tend to be slightly more expensive than Solo Stove fire pits, mainly due to their heavier and thicker materials.

• Additional Features: Both Breeo and Solo Stove offer additional features like cooking grates, griddles, and spark screens to enhance the outdoor experience.

By considering these specifications, you can choose a smokeless fire pit that is the right size, material, fuel source, and smoke reduction technology

for your needs, while also offering the additional features you desire and fitting within your budget.

SMOKELESS FIRE PIT FAQ’S

How do smokeless fire pits work?

Smokeless fire pits work by optimizing the burning process of wood and reducing the amount of smoke produced. Traditional fire pits are known to produce a lot of smoke because the wood burns inefficiently, resulting in incomplete combustion, and the release of unburned particles into the air. Smokeless fire pits use specialized designs and features to address these issues and create a more efficient, cleaner burning fire.

Here are some of the ways smokeless fire pits work:

• Double-Walled Design: Many smokeless fire pits feature a double-walled design that creates a natural convection effect. The design allows air to circulate through the fire pit and helps to burn wood more efficiently. The air flowing in from the bottom of the fire pit helps to feed the flames, while the air moving through the double wall helps to preheat the wood and promote more complete combustion.

• Airflow Control: Smokeless fire pits often have a unique airflow control system that helps regulate the oxygen flow to the fire. These systems allow you to adjust the airflow to the fire pit by opening or closing vents, which helps to control the intensity of the flames and reduce smoke.

• Combustion Chamber: Some smokeless fire pits have a combustion chamber that promotes complete combustion. The chamber holds the wood in a specific position and helps to preheat the wood before it ignites. As a result, the wood burns more efficiently, producing less smoke.

• Fuel Type: Smokeless fire pits work best with dry wood that has a low moisture content. This is because wet wood creates more smoke as it burns, and it is more difficult to ignite. When using a smokeless fire pit,

it’s essential to use dry, seasoned wood that has been cut and stored properly.

Overall, smokeless fire pits work by optimizing the burning process to reduce smoke and improve efficiency. By using specialized designs and features, they create a cleaner burning fire that is perfect for enjoying the great outdoors without all the smoke.

WHERE ARE SOLO STOVES MADE?

The company is based in the United States, and all of its products are designed and engineered in the USA. Solo Stove produces its fire pits and camping stoves in China.

ARE BREEO/SOLO STOVE FIRE PITS WORTH IT?

Whether or not Breeo or Solo Stove fire pits are worth it depends on your personal preferences and needs. Both brands offer high-quality, smokeless fire pits that are designed to burn wood efficiently and produce minimal smoke. However, they do come with a higher price tag than some traditional fire pits, so it’s important to consider whether the investment is worth it for you. For me, the experience of the smokeless fire pit and the ability to cook on my fire pit is definitely worth the added expense.

DO BREEO FIRE PITS RUST?

Like all metal products, Breeo fire pits can rust if they are not properly cared for or if they are exposed to harsh environmental conditions. The outer rim of a Breeo fire pit is made of Corten steel, which is designed to form a rust-like appearance when exposed to the elements. This patina layer actually helps to protect the steel underneath from further rusting and corrosion. The interior of the fire pit is made from stainless steel, which is highly resistant to rust and corrosion. To prevent rusting on a Breeo fire pit, keep the fire pit dry when not in use, cover it with a protective cover, and store it in a dry place during the offseason.

Timeless Design

CAN YOU PUT A BREEO/SOLO STOVE ON A DECK?

Yes, you can put a Breeo or Solo Stove fire pit on a deck, but it is important to take certain precautions to ensure that your deck is not damaged and that the fire pit is used safely.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when using a Breeo or Solo Stove fire pit on a deck:

• Check your local regulations: Before using a fire pit on your deck, check your local regulations to make sure that it is allowed. Some areas may have restrictions on the use of fire pits, particularly in high-risk fire areas.

• Use a fire pit pad: Place a fire pit pad underneath your Breeo or Solo Stove fire pit to protect your deck from heat and sparks. Fire pit pads are specially designed to withstand high temperatures and prevent damage to wood or composite decks.

• Keep the fire pit away from walls and railings: Make sure that your fire pit is at least 10 feet away from walls and railings to prevent sparks from igniting them.

• Don’t overload the fire pit: Only use a reasonable amount of wood in your fire pit to prevent the flames from getting too high.

• Never leave the fire pit unattended: Always supervise the fire pit when it is in use, and never leave it unattended. Make sure that the fire is completely extinguished before leaving the area.

Ultimately, the choice between Breeo vs Solo Stove fire pits comes down to personal preference. Both brands offer high-quality products with efficient burning and reduced smoke, and they are both great options for anyone looking to enjoy a fire pit in their backyard or camping trip. You can’t go wrong with either choice, but each model really shines for different needs.

Catching bluegills like this is easier today than ever before due to new and better electronics .

Picking the Best Bait for Bluegill

BY JOHN E. PHILLIPS

“To catch the most and the biggest bluegills from any bed, you must pick bluegills just like you pick cotton,” Nathaniel Davis, an elderly outdoor friend who helped me learn to hunt and fish, told me years ago.

“You start picking cotton on the plant’s outside first and then work your way into the bolls closest to the stem. That way you won’t knock off any of the bolls. When you’re picking bluegills off a bed, begin on the outside beds first, and work your way into the centers. Once you hook a bluegill, it will run for deep water and away from the bluegills on the more-shallow beds, spooking the bluegills further from the shore,” he said.

This wise, older outdoorsman never went to high school, trade school or college. But I never knew a better fisherman or hunter, and I always followed his outdoor advice.

Several modern devices will help you catch more bluegills, including depth finders and GPS receivers. Many bluegill fishermen have learned that if they can locate bluegill beds and mark those spots as waypoints on their GPS receivers, they can return to those sites each year and generally catch bluegills. Thanks to this advantage of better sonar, anglers also are pinpointing bluegill beds where they’ve never located them before. When the bluegills pull off their beds in the spring, they’ll move out to 10 feet of water and hold on rocks, riprap and bridge pilings. By the end of June in the South, many of the larger bluegills have moved to their deep-water haunts to spend the summer, the fall and the winter, before migrating back into shallow water to spawn in the spring. Historically clean banks have been more productive than grass beds for bluegills.

BEST BAITS FOR BLUEGILLS

Ask any bluegill enthusiast, and he’ll tell you which bait and colors he believes to be the most productive. That list probably will include:

* Beetle Spins

* Glitter jigs

* Live crickets

* Live mealy worms

* Live night crawler worms that are cut into sections

* Live red worms

* Mayflies

* Panther Martins

* Popeye Jigs

* Rubber jigs like the Keystone Jig Minnow made by Renosky

* Squirrel tail jigs

* Waxworms

* Zero Mepps Spinner

The best colors are: white; yellow; black that many bluegill anglers fish in clear water; and chartreuse.

TACTICS AND PLACES FOR CATCHING BLUEGILLS

*Farm Ponds

“To catch trophy bluegills, the best place to start is a farm pond that’s heavily fertilized and has a crowded bass population,” explained my friend, Sam Spencer, once the Chief of Fisheries for the State of Alabama. “If you have low numbers of bluegills, then they have more food available and can grow to a larger size. By increasing the number of prey fish in a body of water, you ensure that only a very-small number of bluegill offspring will survive, providing more food for the adults. The water then will home fewer bluegills - but they will be bigger.”

The most-productive farm ponds are generally clear of trees and bushes around them. Also, setting-up an automatic fish feeder with a timer means that when the floating fish food hits the water’s surface, large numbers of bluegills will go on a feeding spree.

*

Backwaters off Main River Channels

Smelling bluegills out is what several friends of mine suggest when fishing backwaters. The weed beds, logs, bushes hanging over the water and trees fallen in the water in small creeks, canals, little bays and oxbow lakes coming off major river systems are productive places to find bedding bluegills, often in the same locations year after year. Spawning bluegills in these areas give off an odor like ripe watermelons, and you can follow your nose to pinpoint the bluegill beds. Anglers will use bream poles or ultralight spinning tackle, light line, a red bobber and a small shot lead up the line and bait with live crickets, red worms or nightcrawlers cut into sections.

* Rock Piles

Around locks and dams, you can pinpoint visible and/or underwater rock piles in front of the flood gates from the surface or with a depth finder. When scuba diving, I often see good concentrations of bluegills holding in the holes and depressions under and around the rock piles. By using light line, little jigs or live bait and a small shot lead, you can entice bluegills to leave the rocks and attack your bait as it free falls from the surface to the bottom.

No sweeter-eating or more fierce-fighting fish exists ounce for ounce than the bluegill .

* Barge Canals

Large riprap with holes and crevices often line a barge canal’s edges where bluegills will hold. Casting to the rip-rap with Beetle Spins, squirrel-tailed jigs and small rubber jigs like the Keystone Minnow, and bouncing them off the rocks will catch bluegills. Anglers sometimes only fish in the first five feet of water out from the rocks. However, barge channels have rocks extending well away from the surface rocks where you also can catch bluegills. Use a depth finder to find brush, and you may catch bluegills there in 10 - 15 feet of water. You also can change to live bait and fish vertically in deep water.

* Hidden Locks and Dams

The inundation of old river systems that had locks and dams on them has formed many lakes throughout the nation. Quality lake maps will show the positions of these old locks and dams. You can catch bluegills on the tops of these underwater locks and dams when the fish move closer to the surface and feed on the lip of the break. You also can take bluegills deep on the downcurrent side of these old dams’ wingwalls and barge canals. Because you may experience some difficulty getting your bait down in these regions, if the lake has current running through it, add a split shot up the line away from the bait.

* Power Lines

Below many hydroelectric power plants, power

Most anglers start-off their fishing careers fishing for bluegills, and when you get older, you still can enjoy those days of singing lines and heavy bluegills

To put smiles on children’s faces, take them bluegill fishing this month .

When a lake goes down, you often can see the actual bluegill beds as in this photo .

lines will cross a lake. These power lines generally sit on man-made rock islands in the water that break the current where bluegills will congregate and provide an eddy area where the fish can feed. Bluegills will bite best when the current runs.

* Private Boat Ramps

Bluegills prefer to nest on hard bottoms. When anglers back their boat trailers into the water or are running their boats back up on their trailers, their motors create currents, washing the silt and mud off the bottoms and creating a hard bottom where bluegills can build their beds.

* Dam Sites

Although my dad showed me places when I was a boy where I could locate bluegills, once I became a scuba diver, I learned the type of habitat and cover that the bluegills preferred at a dam site, which most pan fishermen overlook. To learn more about where fish live, why they live there, and how they’re positioned on the cover, get into the water with the fish by scuba diving. Here are a few spots I’ve learned from bluegill experts where bluegills like to hang-out at dams.

1) A Light Back Current

Bluegills don’t like to feed in strong current. They prefer to lay in wait and let the current bring their food to them. At most dams that generate hydroelectric power, you can see the swift water coming from the base of the turbines at the dam. Often you don’t see the back current that runs back toward the dam and the spillways on the face of the dam where bluegills will concentrate.

2) An Offset Like a Ladder or a Break in a Straight Concrete Wall. Many locks and dams have ladders built into the concrete where the lock tenders or boaters can climb up or down to reach the top of the lock or the dam’s side,

3) Underwater Rocks Coming in Contact with the Dam’s Vertical Side Bluegills will concentrate on the back side of a big rock or a boulder in the eddy area of a reverse current and right beside the dam to ambush bait and rest just outside the current.

4) Flood Gate Drop-Offs

Below most dams’ floodgates, the concrete runs out into the water for a short distance and then drops-off dramatically to the bottom of the lake. Depending on the time of the year and whether or not the water flows through the flood gates, you often can pinpoint bluegills holding on this concrete drop-off. Even if only a slight trickle of water flows through the flood gates, the bluegills usually will concentrate on the lip of the flood gate drop-off and face into the current.

5) The Tops of Underwater Concrete Making up a Dam’s Spillway Bluegills will feed there, especially when the shad just have spawned. They also will feed above the lip of the break in shallow water on baitfish and insects caught in the light current. When the mayflies hatch, you’ll generally find them swarmed-up against the spillways where the bluegills can capture and eat them.

6) The Wing Wall’s Calm Water Below the Current

Casting small jigs, rubber jigs and live bait like crickets, worms and maggots straight at the wingwall, reeling these baits slowly to the wing wall drop-off and allowing the bait to fall will help you catch limits of bluegills.

Today’s new electronics have enabled bluegill fishermen to find more bluegill beds than ever before, especially in deep water in summer, and often in places where other bluegillers fail to look for them. You can catch the most and the biggest bluegills this year by following these ideas from expert bluegill anglers.

Catching Bluegills in Winter

A friend of mine several years ago invited me to come with him to catch big, deep-water bluegills in February. I’d never caught bluegills in the winter except while ice fishing at Mille Lacs Lake in Minnesota. Since I’d always thought of bluegills as shallow-water fish, I had trouble believing my friend could catch them in water 40 – 50 feet deep.

My friend told me he’d been fishing in 15 feet of water with a bell sinker on the end of his line and a glitter jig his wife had made tipped with a waxworm up the line. As he fished along the edge of a rocky bluff, he spotted a large school of fish on his depth finder at 48 feet. He dropped his bait down to the bottom, made one turn up off the bottom with his reel and immediately hooked a fish that was a 1/2-pound bluegill. In less than two hours, he’d caught his limit of bluegills.

Starting in the late fall,he then used his depth finder to look for schooling fish throughout the winter and cold weather, often spotting large schools of fish in 45 feet or deeper water. His best baits were crickets and 1/32-ounce glitter jigs tipped with waxworms. He’d hold his boat over the school with a trolling motor and fished vertically for them with six pound-test line and a one ounce bell sinker. These bluegills generally attacked the jigs before the bell sinker reached the bottom. Today, you can go to the Internet and find places to order waxworms year-round.

There’s no doubt that the entire family can enjoy bluegill fishing from now through the summer months

Fly Fishing for Bluegills

During the late spring and early summer, you may discover bluegills feeding in the water’s top story at a dam site. I’ve caught as many as 100 bluegills before fly fishing a chartreuse-colored popping bug in front of the spillways and on the slack-water side of dams with my fly rod. Cast your fly toward the dam. Then twitch the fly, moving it away from the dam. Dam bluegills rarely see a fly and will bite quickly. You can fly fish in farm ponds, rivers, lakes and creeks too with small popping bugs to produce limits of bluegills, especially before, during and after a mayfly hatch.

BY CHEF SARA FURCINI Recipe and image courtesy of www.thefrayedapron.com

Pan-Fried Bluegill with Lemon Aioli

Ingredients

Bluegill

• 1 cup avocado oil for frying (or other neutral oil)

• 1/2 cup cornmeal

• 1/2 cup tapioca flour also called tapioca starch

• 40-60 fillets bluegill more or less, depending on size

• sea salt

• cayenne optional

Lemon Aioli

• 1 egg

• 1 lemon juiced

• 1 tsp red wine vinegar

• 1 tsp sea salt

• 1 tsp dijon mustard

• 1 cup avocado oil

Instructions

1. Dredge and Fry the Fish. Pour the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Meanwhile, pour the cornmeal and tapioca onto a plate and set next to the stove. Swirl with finger tips to disperse. Gently press the bluegill fillets into the flour mixture, coating front to back. When the oil is hot, lower the fillets into the hot oil (it should bubble right away when the oil is ready). Fry until crispy, about 3 to 4 minutes per batch. Use a spider to transfer cooked fillets to a paper towel lined plate and sprinkle while hot with sea salt.

2. Make the Aioli. Crack the egg into a medium bowl and add the lemon juice, salt, and mustard. Use an immersion blender and ever so slowly, add the oil drop by drop until it thickens*-around the time half the oil is added. Once thick, you can safely drizzle the rest of the oil in without the mayonnaise breaking. Taste and adjust lemon juice and salt to taste.

3. Serve the fish hot with a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. Serve with the lemon aioli sauce for dipping.

A neighbor recently had this post-frame building erected . It went up quickly and serves as as a large shop with living quarters .

Post Frame Building Design Factors to Evaluate

BY DAVID STRICKLAND

If you’re an outdoors enthusiast, you know your gear and equipment are as important as your skills. So whether you’re a hunter, fisherman, or camper, having a reliable shelter to store your gear and protect it from the elements is essential. That’s why you should consider a pole-frame building.

Pole-frame buildings are ideal for those who value durability, versatility, and affordability. These structures are made from wooden poles embedded in the ground to form the frame of the building. Beams, bracing, and trusses connect the posts, and walls are optional.

One of the main benefits of post-frame buildings is their durability. The wooden poles can withstand strong winds, heavy snow loads, and even earthquakes. They are also resistant to fire, insects, and rot, making them an excellent choice for areas with harsh weather conditions.

Another advantage of pole frame buildings is their versatility. They can be easily adapted for various purposes, such as storage, workshops or even living quarters. In addition, you can customize it to fit your specific needs with features such as windows, doors, insulation, and ventilation.

Pole frame buildings are also affordable compared to other types of structures. They require fewer materials and less labor to construct, making them a cost-effective solution for those on a budget. Additionally, their simple design requires minimal maintenance, saving you time and money in the long run.

POST-FRAMING HISTORY

The use of wooden pole-frame barns in America dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries when European settlers used the technique to build barns and homes on the American frontier. This building method allowed settlers to quickly and inexpensively construct buildings using readily available materials.

Today’s pole barns are becoming increasingly popular due to their adaptability and reduced construction costs. Their versatility is apparent in the number of residential homes and commercial structures dotting my local landscape.

PLANNING YOUR POLE-BARN

When designing a post-frame building, there are several factors you need to consider to ensure that your structure is durable, meets the desired function, and is built to last. Here are some critical factors you might review before digging your first hole:

Purpose- The purpose of the building will significantly influence its design. Will it be used for storage, housing livestock, a workshop, or as a residence? Your building’s intended use will determine its size, height, and layout.

Location- The building site’s terrain, soil type, and climate will influence the final design. Consider positioning the structure to take advantage of natural light and ventilation and to protect against harsh weather conditions.

Materials- Builders have several options when constructing postframe buildings, including wood, steel, or a combination. The type and quality of the material used will depend on the purpose of the building and the desired level of durability.

Roof Design- The roof design will impact the building’s structural integrity, energy efficiency, and overall appearance. Choosing your roofing material, its slope, and ventilation is part of the design process.

Insulation- Post-frame buildings can be insulated using fiberglass, spray foam, or rigid foam. The type of insulation used will depend on the desired level of energy efficiency and climate control.

Doors and Windows- The number, size, and placement of doors and windows will impact the building’s functionality, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. Position your doors and windows to take advantage of natural light and ventilation while providing adequate security.

Electrical and Plumbing- If your building is for residential or commercial purposes, you must add electrical and plumbing details to your design. The plan should include the placement of outlets, lighting fixtures, and plumbing to maximize functionality and convenience.

Building Codes- The design must comply with local building codes and regulations, which include meeting requirements for structural strength, fire resistance, and accessibility.

BAKER METALWORKS AND SUPPLY

Baker Metal Works & Supply has stores in Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida, and has metal roofing systems and trim items to meet your needs. They also specialize in providing everything needed to build your typical pole barn.

I spoke with Chris Bryan at the Troy Alabama location of Baker Metal Works about the services and products they provide for someone planning a pole-framed structure.

Bryan has been in sales for nearly a decade and said their roofing options include five metal panel profiles in 20 colors with 29 or 26-gauge thickness. In addition, their trim pieces are available in all 20 colors in 10’ lengths made from 26 gauge metal. By manufacturing all of their trim on-site, they can create custom pieces to fit the needs of your project.

A big plus for prospective post-frame builders is that Baker Metal Works & Supply can offer advice regarding roofing or siding thickness, trim options and help you figure out how big a post-frame building you need.

KITS

Based on your site location and needs, Bryan said Baker Building and Supply will provide a complete kit to build the pole-framed building of your choosing.

This nearby commercial postframe building uses a concrete footing for each post .

“Once you determine the roof height, length, and width of your building, we can calculate the number of posts, bags of ready-mix concrete, trusses, metal panels, screws, ridge caps, and trim necessary to complete your structure,” he said.

According to Bryan, a 40x60 open barn kit with a 12’ roof is priced at $9,284.00, and they also offer an optional wall kit. Bryan said seasoned pole barn builders can assemble a 40x60’ barn in as little as one day.

POST-FRAME BENEFITS

Perhaps the most appealing aspect of post-frame buildings is their affordability. They require fewer materials and less labor than traditional buildings, making them a cost-effective solution for those on a budget. They also can lower energy costs by adding insulation for more efficient heating and cooling.

SITE EVALUATION

When evaluating a potential site for a pole building, there are several factors to consider:

SOIL TYPE AND STABILITY

The soil must be able to support the weight of the building and any equipment or materials stored inside. Soil testing is a way to determine the soil type and its load-bearing capacity.

Drainage- The site requires proper drainage to prevent water from pooling around the building’s foundation, which can lead to erosion and damage.

Access- The site should include easy access to construction equipment and delivery vehicles.

Zoning/Building codes- Check with the local authorities to ensure the building and location conforms with zoning laws.

FOUNDATIONS

The next step is to consider the foundation. A contractor can ensure the foundation design suits your building and site conditions. Two of the more common include:

Concrete Slab- This popular and economical option works for smaller buildings. Slabs are framed and poured directly onto the soil, and

the thickness of the reinforced concrete depends on whether heavy equipment is stored inside.

Pier Foundation- This involves digging individual holes, pouring concrete footings, and installing vertical piers or columns to support the post-frame structure.

CONCLUSION

The post-frame building may not be the most glamorous of structures, but it gets the job done. It is a testament that the simplest solution is sometimes the best.

These buildings are the perfect choice for those who value durability, versatility, affordability, and a connection to nature. So, consider investing in a pole frame building for your next adventure, whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman or just starting out. Its rugged yet simple design will surely become a reliable and beloved part of your landscape.

Whether you’re using it as a hunting cabin or a base camp for your next adventure, a pole frame building can help you feel connected to the land and the outdoors.

Where to Cast Surf Fishing

BY WILLIAM KENDY

May

On the surface, surf fishing looks like it is an easy breezy no brainer scenario. To get started you need to buy a 10–12-foot surf rod (or a couple of them if you want to set up multiple rigs), a 5000 to 6000 class spinning reel for each, string15-20-pound braid, buy some pompano rigs at a tackle shop along with an assortment of pyramid sinkers in different weights, rod holders and a few other tackle items, bait (and/or a sand flea rake to harvest your own) and you are basically in business. Just haul your tackle, along with a beach chair and the invaluable cooler (beer or no beer) to the beach, hunker down and get a tan while you are waiting for fish.

If wishes were horses, beggars would ride and Mother Nature has an annoying tendency to monkey up even the best laid plans.

For example, if you are fishing on a day when you have a lot of rough conditions in the surf you may find that you cast your rig straight out and by the time you get back to your rod holder your bait is already swept down the beach. Your immediate reaction is to reel it back in and cast again.

If your bait is always in the air, how are you going to catch any fish (not to mention risk losing your bait, which isn’t cheap nowadays)?

Now what?

Weldon Hall from SandFlea Outfitters in Destin, Fl conducts surf fishing charters and runs into these issues constantly. He has a solution for days when water current can challenge your fishing strategy.

“One option is to go with a heavier weight but if you have all the weight your rod can handle and still cast accurately, it isn’t feasible,” Hall said. “I have a little trick when I have heavy current running up and down the beach and I call it ‘walking the dog’.”

“Let’s say I have a left to right current going down the beach I’ll cast my bait way down to the left almost parallel to the beach and then let the current bring it down the beach in front of me and then kind of walk it down until it sometimes even comes all the way back around and ends up on my right-hand side of the beach. Then I reel it in and do the same thing until I find a spot where it settles most likely a deeper hole and is the type of slot you’re looking for anyway,” Hall explained.

Now if you are not into “set rig” fishing with long rods you can always choose the lighter route and use 7–8-foot rod, mid-range spinning reel and 12-pound test line and throw pompano jigs, banana jigs with a trailer

offers great surf fishing options for anglers without the summertime crowds .

or even other jigs with teasers or some kind of dressing like a sand flea, shrimp or even Fishbites to those fish cruising up and down the beach, sometimes within mere feet of it.

“If you put a jig in front of his face and pop it a couple of times that gives you some pulses of the bait, chances are that fish can’t say no,” Hall noted.

Surf action serves the purpose of dislodging crustaceans from the bottom and mixing up the “food pantry” for all kinds of fish and those are great days to do long rod “set-up” and even fish the first trough for fish. What about calm days when there is really no appreciable surf action?

“If I am sight fishing, I like days with a North wind and we have a nice calm day with clear glass-like water which gives me the best chance of spotting them and you can even spot them way off coming towards you and you can get out in front of them and present that jig to them.”

The Gulf of Mexico is a big tub of water and the million-dollar question for the surf fishermen who wants to catch pompano, whiting, redfish and drum is “where do I cast?”

Do I try to get to the deeper water beyond the first sand bar or even wade out and try to sling my bait beyond that?

Hall has a definite opinion about that issue.

“One of the biggest mistakes I see anglers doing is that they want to cast as far away from the beach as they can and they feel that the further away from the beach to deeper water the bigger the fish are and the better the fishing but that isn’t the case and especially in the spring when the drum are concentrated in the first trough,” Hall said. “Whiting, black drum and redfish are usually going to be from that first sand bar to the beach especially at high tide and you will be surprised how close they are.”

To clarify, that target area is literally just a few feet into the water and it’s the first little depth you step into, anywhere from 10 feet to maybe 30-40 feet off of the beach, depending on the contour of the bars. It is an area that many angers literally just cast over without thinking about the fish catching opportunities they are missing.

“It will surprise you how close they actually are to the shore and if you walk up and down the beach chances are that you are going to see a redfish, black drum or whiting hanging right there at the surf line and so it makes sense to fish that first trough. You don’t have to cast as far, use as much weight and you’re still targeting those fish that you want to catch.”

The importance of the “fishable” water prompts a lot of anglers to use multiple set-ups and place baits in different areas of the water, one in the first trough, one on the first bar and the third just beyond the first trough and just stagger the placement of their baits to improve their odds of hooking cruising fish.

“I like to stagger it out and don’t want to put all my eggs in one basket because you might miss out on those pompano that are usually on the first bar or just running the backside of it,” Hall explained. “If I’m targeting redfish or whiting I usually am going to fish the first trough.”

Contact Information

Weldon Hall Sandfleaoutfitters.com 850-974-7919

Recipe and image courtesy of Louisiana Cooking. www.louisianacooking.com

Seared Redfish with Crawfish Cream Sauce

Ingredients

• ½ cup plus 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

• 1 cup sliced almonds

• 8 (6-ounce) redfish fillets

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, sliced

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 1 (8-ounce) package crawfish tails, rinsed and drained

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano

• 2 teaspoons dry sherry

• Garnish: fresh oregano leaves, fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, melt two tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add almonds; cook, stirring frequently, until butter is melted and almonds are browned. Remove from the skillet.

2. Sprinkle fish with salt and pepper. Dust fish with flour. In a large skillet, heat oil and ¼ cup butter over medium heat. Add 4 fish fillets; cook until fish is browned and flakes easily with a fork, 4 to 5 minutes per side. Place on a serving platter. Repeat with remaining fish. Top with almond mixture.

3. Increase heat to medium-high, and add garlic and remaining ¼ cup butter to the skillet-Edited

4. Add cream; cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 6 minutes. Stir in crawfish tails; cook until heated through. Stir in thyme, oregano, and sherry. Spoon crawfish mixture over fish. Garnish with oregano and thyme, if desired.

Baitcasters in Saltwater Choice of the Experts

BY FRANK SARGEANT

For many expert coastal anglers, baitcasters or “round reels’ used to rule. The traditional revolving spool reel, originated in 1810, had the distance, the power and the accuracy experienced anglers loved, whether they were wadefishing the flats for trout or tossing topwaters at oyster bars, seawalls and mangroves for redfish and snook.

That changed somewhat in recent years due to the use of backlash-free spinning reels loaded with braided lines. Fixed spool reels give more distance with lighter weights and the capability to handle much stronger lines than in the age of monofilament, and also do away with most of the line twist issues that used to be common in fixed-spool fishing. Coastal guides routinely equip their clients with spinning gear because it avoids the potential for backlash with less expert users.

But modern low profile baitcasters designed for saltwater are now coming into their own, as well. They have the advantages of being much more compact than both round reels and spinning reels, and they allow one-hand operation due to the “click-to-cast” thumb bar.

You can’t make a cast with many round baitcasters or any spinning reel without using your free hand, and this can sometimes be awkward if you need to make a quick cast, say at a snook popping bait under a mangrove. With the low-profile reel, you click the cast control with your thumb while at the same time controlling the spool pressure with that thumb—casting is a one-hand operation, a huge plus.

Plus, a new generation of low-profile baitcasters designed specifically for coastal use, like the Penn Fathom series, are lighter, tougher, stronger and more corrosion-resistant than their forbearers.

Ben Joyce, Senior Category Manager for Pure Fishing, says the Fathom reels are ideal for many inshore and nearshore fishing situations.

“For the angler who’s going to be doing a lot of casting all day long, the “lowpro” reel is just a lot less tiring and more convenient,” Joyce said “And thanks to advances in gear and drag strength, these relatively small reels can handle surprisingly large fish, right up to 40-pound king mackerel.”

He said baitcasters also readily handle heavy fluorocarbon and monofilament that can cause snarls on spinning gear due to the inherent “springiness” of these lines. And small baitcasters can also readily cast very strong braid, with reels in the eight ounce range sometimes spooled with 30-pound-test. This type of reel has a maximum drag pressure of 24 pounds which is impressive for its small size. Lots of drag pressure is a big plus when hauling a sheepshead away from a bridge piling or a snapper away from a reef.

“When Penn rates a reel for a maximum drag, that reel has actually been tested for extended use at that drag pressure,” Joyce explained. “Some companies rate reels based on what they can stand just long enough to be tested but Penn reels are rated for regular use at maximum drag where anglers need

it and that’s a big difference on our products.”

Baitcasters are also more comfortable fishing with heavier lures than spinning gear because you’re not hooking the line directly over your index finger on every cast. The spool takes the pressure of the cast, with your thumb controlling the release and the built-in anti-backlash system and a very light touch preventing over-runs.

Where spinning reels have an advantage

Small spinning reels in the 2500 to 4000 size are definitely better for throwing lures of ¼ ounce or less, or perhaps free-lining small live baits like shrimp or fiddler crabs. The free flow of line off the spool, without the need to get the spool turning, gives spinning gear an advantage in these situations.

Baitcasters shine in many other situations.

“If you’re fishing straight down next to a bridge piling or gas well for sheepshead, the ability to simply click the release on a baitcaster and let your bait or lure drop is a big plus,” Joyce said. “The same is true when chumming up yellowtails off a reef, or dropping down for mangrove (gray) snapper. You can also easily control the rate of descent by touching your thumb to the spool, something tricky to do with a spinning reel, and you can tell when the lure or bait hits bottom as the spool quits turning. Turn the handle and you’re in gear ready to set the hook.”

Many anglers say that the more compact design and balance of low-profile baitcasters mounted on a matched rod makes it easier to work topwaters as well as other lures that require lots of rod action. And when it comes to accuracy, as in casting against a seawall, under a dock or under mangroves, for example, for most anglers it’s much easier to finesse the shot with a baitcaster. It’s also just a more efficient motion, when casting plugs all day long, to keep your rod hand on the butt of the rod as you make the cast and control the spool with your thumb. With spinning gear, you have to first flip the bail with your “off” hand, then slide it down to grip the rod butt and make the cast.

Of course, the backlash question always looms with baitcasters, but modern spool tension adjustments eliminate most of this issue. (Not to say you can’t backlash a new generation baitcaster when throwing lures too light or casting into the wind, but it’s much rarer than in the past.)

“The Penn Fathom reels have a dual anti-backlash system, both a dial-controlled magnetic drag and a centrifugal drag. The magnetic system works when the reel is turning slowly, so it prevents backlashes even when throwing lighter lures at shorter ranges,” Joyce explained.

MORE ON THE PENN FATHOMS SERIES

Penn’s new premium-class Fathom Baitcasters, available in three models and in both right and left-hand retrieve, cover coastal fishing situations from casting for sea trout, reds and snook on the flats to hauling in near-shore speedsters

including king mackerel. These are all seven bearing, dual-backlash control reels built to deal with long-term exposure to coastal use, and to the rigors of heavy drags and braided lines.

The range begins with the very light 200, which weighs just 8.1 ounces and is available in 6.6:1 and 8.0:1 gearing and in both left and right hand retrieve. It has traditional grips, cast control on the left side plate (in right hand models) and retrieves 27” per crank in the 6.6:1, 33” per crank in the 8.0:1. It has up to 24 pounds of drag, and is priced at about $270.

The mid-sized 300 reels weighs 9.2 ounces and can hold up to 325 yards of 20-pound-test braid, enough to take on sizable king mackerel off the beaches when the smokers move through. It also has a maximum 30-pound drag, which gives it the muscle to pull big sheepshead away from a bridge piling or haul a nice snapper off a reef. Price is around $300.

The powerful 400 weighs 13.9 ounces and includes oversized soft-grips, useful for winching up tough fighters. It’s available in 6.2:1 gearing and retrieves 34” per crank with a full spool. Line capacity is 285 yards of 30-pound-test braid. Price is about $320.

All the reels have strong metal bodies, aluminum spools and brass main gear, yet the 200-size is comparable in weight to many less robust composite reels of similar size. See details at www.pennfishing.com.

Baitcaster Q & A

Can you use freshwater baitcasters in saltwater?

While many baitcasting reels designed for fresh water are OK in salt, some have lightweight gears and composite or even magnesium housings that are not suitable for the heavy pressure sometimes exerted in coastal and nearshore fishing. Their drags are not designed to handle fish that make extended runs, either.

And magnesium corrodes very quickly in a salty environment. So, the best bet is to look for a reel designated for coastal use.

How do I adjust a baitcasting reel for casting?

One quick way to get the tension right on a baitcaster to avoid backlashes is to suspend whatever lure or bait you’re casting from the rod tip with the line tension screwed down tight enough so that it does not fall.

Then, back off a bit at a time until the lure falls slowly. Start at this setting and you’ll greatly reduce the chance of backlash. As you get more skilled, you can back off on the tension further, which will allow longer casts, though at greater risk of backlash.

How should you clean a baitcaster after saltwater fishing?

Joyce started his career at Penn in the company’s repair center in Philadelphia so he’s an expert at reel maintenance.

“Like all tackle, baitcasters should get a freshwater cleanup after use in saltwater,” Joyce said. “But you never want to blast a reel with a hose or dip it into a bucket of fresh water because that can push salt and grime into the interior and also blow away lubricant on the level wind.”

Joyce said that it is best to simply to use a spray bottle full of fresh water and mist your reels after coastal use, then wipe them dry with a clean cloth. When it comes to oil, over-doing is again not a good idea.

“Most people use way too much oil,” Joyce pointed out. “Use a reel oiler and light oil designed for reels, and just put a tiny drop on the level wind and the point where the grips fit on the handles, and wipe away any salt or grit you see in either place, and that’s all it takes.”

He said cleaning and oiling interior bearings and gears needs to be done only once a year.

“If you’re handy and know what you’re doing, you can do this yourself, or you can send it to the service center, but if you do that it’s best to send it in at the end of summer. The Penn center gets inundated with reel cleaning and restoration in spring so you might have to wait much longer then,” he concluded.

Pompano Fishing with Jigs

BY WILLIAM KENDY

Most Pompano are caught on set rigs, like the one above tipped with Fish Bites Targeting them with jigs means learning a different approach .

There is no question about it, if you are a gulf coast surf fisherman your main target fish has to be the delicious and hard fighting pompano. Speckled trout and redfish are tough fighters and tasty but don’t rank near the pompano for dinner fare.

While pompano can be caught in Alabama and Florida through the year (often as a by-catch), the best time for success is between November and early May, depending on the water temperature. Just keep “tax-day” in mind for the benchmark day to catch these migrating fish along the Florida and Alabama coast.

Even though pompano aren’t big fish, the majority weighing in around two to three pounds, they don’t surrender easily. Just envision a two-to-three-pound bluegill, except it is in the ocean, where they have currents and water action to help them escape getting beached. On light tackle they are even more challenging and fun.

While most surf fishermen utilize 9–12-foot rods with reels large enough to hold a few hundred yards of 15–20-pound braid and utilizing multi-hook “set rigs” there are times when other techniques can fill the cooler when the fish are running the beach and they are coming to you but that is not always the case. One of those techniques is throwing jigs with light to medium weight spinning tackle.

Weldon Hall of Sandflea Charters out of Destin, Florida is pretty much an expert when it comes to surf fishing in general and specifically for pompano. GDO interviewed Hall on a recent Northwest Florida Fishing Report podcast to get the inside track on jigging for pompano.

“Catching pompano on light tackle is fun but sometimes it is a necessity if you want to catch them on certain days,” Hall pointed out. “If you have a calm day with a bluebird sky the pompano are not so much coming up and down the beach so go out and hunt them and put a jig in front of them to get a bite.”

When you are walking the beach on a calm day, looking for pompano, obviously if you see fish, you cast to them. If you don’t spot any it doesn’t make a whole lot of sense to just cast “willy, nilly” everywhere and waste time and wear out your arm. Hall has come suggestions as to good places to fling your jigs.

“By adding and walking the sandbars and you can find cuts and little holes and dips and places where it gets deeper and the sandbar jumps way out and you can reach some even deeper water,” Hall said. “Even walking the beach, you can see that it goes in and out and look for those spots that transition to deeper water.”

WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO STALK POMPANO?

“Mid-morning to about noon is normally pretty good as is when the sun is either going up or down as long as you put the sun at your back. That makes it easier to spot the fish when you are not looking into the sun,” Hall said.

When it comes to tackle Hall said that anglers can get away with a 7 to a 7 12foot medium to medium light rod although he prefers a little longer rod in the 8 ½ to 9-foot length. Pair it with a 2500 to 3500 series reel spooled with eight-to-tenpound braid with a six-to-eight-pound fluorocarbon leader and you will be ready to rock and roll.

Now onto jigs. Hall likes the banana style called bananas, wigglers, Goofy jigs and his favorite color combinations are hot pink, chartreuse and white. He said an orange and white or pink and white combination work well.

Since a jig is basically a molded shaped weight with a bare hook, Hall is adamant about dressing it up with a “teaser” such as a bucktail or attaching a split ring or a loop knot with a teaser to give it some movement when you are hopping it off of the bottom. He has found that pompano will hit that teaser so you obviously get more strikes. He also has tipped his jigs with Fishbites in a sand flea or shrimp flavor or even tips it off with a shrimp or even sandfleas.

Hall pointed out that the reason for a loop knot or split ring to attach your trailer to it is because it allows your trailer to have a lot more “swings” as you work it through the water and it looks a lot more natural.

He also has some advice for modifying jigs that come with trailers

“When you buy a skirted jig on most of them the skirt will run about an inch past your hook and you should trim it back to where the hook starts to bend and that will increase your hookups,” Hall explained. “It also gives you a more natural movement.”

THE APPROACH AND DELIVERY

On sunny and clear calm water days if the fish are feeding close to the beach you have to use a little bit of stealth and keep a low profile so as not to spook them.

“That is when it is important to be able to make a long cast, not necessarily a long cast to deep water but long cast up the beach in order to get your jig out in front of the fish and that is the reason for a longer rod” Hall said.

So, you’ve spotted some “pomps” and you cast your jig beyond them and are going to retrieve it back to you, hopefully with a fish on. What is the technique?

“Once the jig hits the bottom, close your bail and tighten the line a little and start it back with a series of “small hops”. Visualize in your mind that as it is coming back it is making a puff of sand every time it hits the bottom,” Hall said. “You want to puff up and settle back down, puff up and settle back down all the way back. Most of the time you will get your strikes when it starts to flutter back down.”

Hall recommended that you experiment on the retrieve pattern. Start out with just a small hop, let it sit and then repeat all the way back. If that doesn’t work, maybe two small hops and then let it sit. Vary the speed or height and see what gets a bite.

JIG SIZES

Hall advises to make sure that you have a variety of different weight jigs, in different colors, ranging from 1/8 ounce all the way to ½ ounce or better as to the jig you use will depend on the water conditions and in terms of casting distance, the wind factor. He feels it is best to use the lightest jig you can and still deliver a good presentation.

“I try to use the lightest jig I can get away with that moves naturally in the water and doesn’t make a huge splash when you put it down. The worst thing you can do is plop a too heavy jig in front of them. It looks totally unnatural and the sound sets them off immediately and it is game over.”

Once you have caught a pompano don’t assume that you spooked the rest and be too quick to move on.

“When I’m blind fishing and I catch a fish, I’ll throw the jig right back out there. Pompano like to chase each other when they get hooked because they think he is chasing something to eat and it gets them fired up,” Hall said. “I don’t move on until I don’t catch any more fish and feel I’ve worn out the hole.”

Weldon

Pond Fish Feeder Options and Points to Consider

BY WILLIAM KENDY

In theory, a pond with a balanced ratio of “predator to prey” fish shouldn’t need supplemental feeding to support the fish population. If the forage fish base of bluegill and threadfin shad (plus whatever else is in there) are healthy and reproduce, it should be self-sustaining and plentiful enough to keep the predator population, predominantly bass, healthy and growing.

Sometimes though nature has a way of interfering with even the best

Texas Hunter

directional fish feeders are available in 70, 175 and 250 pound capacity models .

laid plans of mice and men. Bass are ravenous feeders and can clean out the food pantry pretty fast.

Maybe the bass population has increased to the point where they have decimated the forage fish base. Maybe the forage fish didn’t have a good spawning year and the pond is now out of “predator prey” balance and needs to be brought up to speed. This imbalance of too many predator fish with not enough forage fish in a pond is

what is called a “predator crowded” situation.

Norman Latona is founder and president of Southeastern Pond Management. (https://sepond.com/) SE Pond offers services that cover the waterfront of pond development and management including ecosystem analysis, management programs, pond construction, liming, fertilizing, fish inventory assessment, removal processes, stocking of forage and game fish, maintenance and more. They cover the Southeast and do projects in other areas such as Illinois and as far west as Arkansas and Texas.

“Largemouth bass like to eat, eat and eat and they can eat themselves out of house and home especially if pond owners don’t make sure that there is a good balance between the predator bass population and the forage fish population,” Latona said. “With largemouth bass it is hard to keep groceries around.”

Research shows that a bass needs to eat 8-10 pounds of food in order to gain one pound of weight. If the goal is to grow bigger bass a pond owner needs to understand that in order to grow bigger bass, he/she needs fewer bass. It is an inverse relationship. Research also suggests that a healthy prey to predator ratio is approximately in the one to three or four range. That means for every bass there should be three to four forage fish.

“A common condition that we encounter is what we call ‘predator crowding’, which is where the bass are abundant but they are skinny and run in the 12-14-inch range and predator fish harvest is the first line of defense with forage fish stocking coming afterwards,” Latona noted. “Harvest removes mouths and stocking adds food to the mouths we have.”

According to Latona, while you can try to remove excess predators by “hook and line” the easiest and most efficient way to reduce the predator population to a reasonable level in relationship to the forage fish population is to “electrofish”.

The electrofishing process relies on two electrodes which deliver current at high-voltage from the “anode” to the “cathode” through the water. When a fish encounters the electric pulses, it causes what is called “galvanotaxis” which is uncontrolled muscular convulsion and the result is that the stunned fish swims towards the anode where it is netted and information collected. The whole process doesn’t harm the fish, allows for selective data capture and can be done year-round.

“Electrofishing is very efficient in terms of harvesting fish and since our goal is to remove as many pounds of fish per hour as we can we tend to do more of that in the spring and fall because that is when the fish are normally in shallower water,” Latona said. “Electrofishing really shines and is tremendously effective in shallower water.”

Once the proper prey to predator balance has been established one way to help maintain that healthy ratio and the pond has been stocked, is to start a supplemental feeding program.

SOME BENEFITS OF SUPPLEMENTAL FEEDING

The term,“Supplemental feeding” is not only a misnomer but doesn’t do justice to the benefits that it provides. Using a feeder is actually part of the overall plan and is a large contributor to the ultimate success of the pond management program and isn’t just a “add on”

First off, feeders help support the pond food chain. Sometimes due to a low level of Phytoplankton, a pond can’t support the smaller fish

and if there aren’t smaller fish the bigger fish (as in bass) go hungry and become stunted. Bluegill, gizzard shad, golden shiners and even flathead minnows along with channel catfish and trout eat fish food.

Fish pellets help the forage to grow and by doing so provides more food for the predators. Healthier fish mean bigger fish. Supplemental feeding may even increase the frequency of spawning in the forage base.

In addition, setting up a consistent feeding schedule induces the baitfish to congregate and creates a “feeding zone”. Where the baitfish go the predators will follow so you have a concentration of catchable bass in a little area. How much fun is that?

“Supplemental forage fish feeding is a useful and productive management imput aimed at providing a nutritional boost to the bluegill and other species as well as concentrating them into an area making them easier to catch and can produce some lunkers. The healthier the bluegill are the more they will reproduce and that means more fry for the bass to eat,” Latona said. “Everybody gets bigger and it contributes to the overall health of the pond’s ecosystem.”

FEEDERS

While there are a lot of fish feeder companies Latona thinks highly of Texas Hunter Products.

“We are big believers in Texas Hunter feeders (www.texashunterproducts.com/). Simply put, they are well designed and built and deliver on time, every time. The key to a successful supplemental feeding program is reliability and consistency,” Latona said.

Texas Hunter offers standard directional fish feeders in different capacities (70, 125 and 250 pounds) along with a hanging fish feeder. The directional fish feeder units feature a digital timer that can feed up to nine times a day, an air blower system and dispenses feed in a 20-foot by 45-foot wedge pattern which creates that feeding zone.

“Texas Hunter directional fish feeders are designed specifically for mounting on the pond bank (adjustable legs) or on a dock (dock legs). Coupled with a rechargeable 12-volt battery and solar charging panel, the only challenge is keeping them full of fish food!” Latona said. “They may be programmed to deliver a measured quantity of fish food multiple times throughout the day and we find that feeding bluegill more than once during the day (morning, midday, afternoon) tends to increase the total amount they are willing to consume.”

“Feeding bluegill a high-protein ration on a daily basis during the growing season (March through October) dramatically increases growth rates and top-end size. In addition, feeders attract bluegill (and other species), making them easier to catch and/or harvest,” Latona explained. “Supplemental feeding is one of those ‘add-on’ management inputs that can really push your pond to the next level and it is an integral part of the management program.”

“I cannot emphasize enough the importance of utilizing supplemental feeders not only from the health of the fish population perspective but the fun that it can generate. When you place some feeders on the pond and program them to disperse pellets at consistent times you create feeding zones at certain times,” Latona said. “That means fun for you, your kids and even grandkids because you are guaranteed to catch fish at certain times in specific areas and that is what lasting memories are made of,” Latona concluded.

Italian Braised Venison Ribs

Prep: 30 mins • Cook: 3 hrs • Total Time: 3 hrs 30 mins

Ingredients

• 3 cups purple grape juice, or 1 cup saba

• 2 pounds ribs, each about 4 to 6 inches long

• Salt and black pepper

• 4 slices bacon

• ¼ cup olive oil

• 1 large celery stalk, minced

• 2 carrots, minced

• 2 large onions, minced

• 1-ounce dried mushrooms, 1 standard package

• 2 cups red wine

• ½ cup balsamic vinegar

• 10 fresh sage leaves, or 1 tablespoon dried and ground

• 1 sprig fresh rosemary, or 1 tablespoon dried

• 1 quart venison or beef broth

Instructions

1. If you are not using the saba, boil down the grape juice to 1 cup in a small pot. Set aside. Take out the ribs and salt them well. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

2. In a large, heavy, lidded pot like a Dutch oven, fry the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove, eat one slice, then chop and set aside.

3. Pat the ribs dry with a paper towel and brown them in the bacon fat, adding olive oil if you need to. When you brown the ribs, don’t brown the side with the bone showing—if you brown this side, too, the bones will fall off the meat too soon. When the ribs are browned, remove to a plate.

4. Add the minced vegetables and cook over medium heat until they are well browned, stirring occasionally. This should take about 8 to 10 minutes. Crumble the dried mushrooms over the vegetables and add the tomato paste and mix well. Cook this for another 3 or 4 minutes, stirring often. You want the tomato paste to darken.

5. At this point you’ll notice that the bottom of the pot has a brown residue on it. Add the red wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape it all off. Boil the red wine down by half, then add the cooked-down grape juice and the balsamic vinegar. Mix well and return the ribs to the pot, bone side up. Pour in any juices that have accumulated with the ribs, too. Add the herbs.

6. Let this cook down for a few minutes, then add the venison broth and mix well. Put the meat back in the pot. Cover the pot and put it in the oven to cook for at least 2 ½ hours. You want the meat to be thinking about falling off the bone, but not actually there yet. This could take as long as 4 hours with an old elk or moose.

7. When the meat is ready, gently remove it from the pot and set aside. Now you have a choice: You can use the braising liquid as-is, or you can make it smooth. I prefer it to be smooth. To do this, you can either push it through the medium plate of a food mill, use a “boat motor” stick blender, or pour everything into a blender and buzz it. I prefer the food mill option. Taste the resulting sauce. If it is to your liking, you are good to go. It might be too thin, however, so in this case boil it down until it’s like a barbecue sauce. Right before you serve the sauce, add some black pepper.

8. Coat the ribs in the warm sauce and serve with mashed potatoes or another mashed vegetable; I am big on mashed celery root with this recipe. To drink, you’ll want a big red wine like a Barolo or Bordeaux, or a big malty beer. A good Belgian beer like Chimay is a good choice.

Deep Fried Ribeye Tacos

Ribeye is a) tender, and b) fatty, so you get an excellent balance between crispy fat and chewy meat without it being so gnarly you’re chewing for days.

Backstrap is the way to go with wild game. Anything goes, from deer, elk and moose, to pronghorn, wild sheep, bison, nilgai, oryx and whatever else you can likely think of. It should be red meat, though.

Prep: 30 mins • Cook: 20 mins • Total Time: 50 mins

Ingredients

• 1 small white onion, minced

• 1/3 cup lime juice

• 2 pounds ribeye or venison backstrap

• Salt

• 1 quart lard or vegetable oil

• 18 flour tortillas

• 1/2 cup minced cilantro

• Lime wedges to serve

Instructions

1. Soak the minced onion in the lime juice with some salt. Set this aside as you proceed.

2. Trim all silverskin away from the meat. Cut it into

pieces a little larger than you’d want in a taco, so maybe 1 inch square, more or less. (They shrink when fried.) Salt the pieces well and set in the fridge for 15 minutes while you chop cilantro, slice limes and get your oil hot.

3. Put the oil in a heavy pot — you certainly can use more than a quart if you want to fry everything all at once. Heat it to 350°F. As this is happening, put a cooling rack over a baking sheet in the oven and set the oven to “warm.”

4. Take the meat from the fridge and pat it dry. Fry in batches so you don’t crowd the pot. Fry, stirring the meat around, for about 5 to 7 minutes, until it’s pretty and browned on the outside. Drain and put on the rack in the oven. Let the oil temperature return to 350°F before doing the next batch.

5. When the meat is done, heat the tortillas and make some tacos! At its most simple, you can go with just the meat, onions and cilantro. But I like starting with guacamole or refried beans — the meat will not roll off this way — then salsa, then the onions and cilantro.

Notes

Any salsa you want will work here, but a fire roasted salsa  would be very traditional. Using guacamole or refried beans as the base of the taco is a great way to serve this — the guac or beans prevent the meat from rolling around

NEW & Cool gear

BY WILLIAM KENDY

Primal Outdoors offer Thunderdome Ground Blind

Weighing in at only 10 pounds the Primal Thunderdome spring steel ground blind is compact and portable and can fit two hunters. It has a 360-degree full shooting access with three large windows and three porthole windows with replaceable shootthrough camo mesh. It offers a 60” x 60” footprint with a 72” height and includes tent stakes and tie down ropes.

Suggested Retail Price: $73.00

www . PrimalOutdoors .com

AFTCO Transformer Packable Fishing Jacket

If weight and space is an issue the AFTCO Transformer packable jacket is the solution. Its stretch resistant fabric is made of 92% nylon and 8% Spandex for stretch and comfort and it offers 10K water resistance that can handle light rain with ease along with 10K breathability. It has an adjustable hood, Velcro cuffs and best of all, packs into its right-hand pocket.

Suggested Retail Price: $99.00 www .aftco .com

SEVR 21” HD Target

The premium target uses a NEW easy-pull foam and features an oversized rectangular 4:3 aspect-ratio face. A generous 21” W x 17” H x 13” D rectangle shape is larger than comparable targets and can be shot horizontally for more stability or shot vertically for added confidence at longer distances. It features integrated tie-down channels for target bundling and is usable with field points, mechanical and fixed-blade broadheads.

Manufacturers Price: $169.99

www .servbroadheads .com

Seneca Recluse Air Rifle

If you like to hunt and do it extensively, then the Seneca Recluse .357-caliber air rifle with a 500cc reservoir will give you lots of shots. Great for hunting woodchucks, nutria, possums, rats, raccoons, crows and similar-sized pests. It is a precharged pneumatic single shot bolt action rifle that features a rifled steel barrel, 500cc air capacity reservoir with a fixed front sight and fully adjustable removable rear sight.

Suggested Retail Price: $699.00 www pyramydair com

H2OX 3700 Evo Soft Tackle Bag

The versatile Evo soft tackle bag features a compression molded top for easy access, a quick bay open storage slot, a waterproof compression molded bottom and comes with five 370 0 utility boxes and one 3600 in the top tray. It is built from 60D polyester, plastic and mesh fabric. It is easily packable perfect for the active, on the go fisherman

Suggested Retail Price: $89.99 www .academy .com

The Original Shaky Worm Head

The Shaky worm head was designed for finesse fishing or Texas worming, but it can be used for all types of plastic baits. It has a well-balanced head and sports a premium oversized super-sharp black nickel Mustad® or VMC® hook. The paint is electrostatic powder coat which renders it chip proof. Available in 1/8 oz, 3/16 oz, and 1/4 oz. and it is packed 3 or 5 to the package and comes in 4 colors and unpainted.

Suggested Retail Price: $6.99 (5 pack)

www .davisbait .com

Abu Garcia Zata Spinning Reels

The Abu Garcia Zata Spinning Reels are precisely engineered with an IM-C6 one-piece gear box that houses computer optimized gearing and provides a gear system that is smooth and highly efficient for controlled presentations in the water. It features 10 stainless-steel bearings plus a roller bearing for smooth operation along with a lightweight aluminum frame and an Everlast bail system for improved durability.

Suggested Retail Price: $189.95

www .abugarica .com

MTM® CASE-GARD™ Introduces “The Bull” Rifle Rest

The Bull is sized to accommodate full-length rifles and shotguns. The adjustable frame can be shortened or lengthened between 18.3 and 26 inches to achieve proper forearm and buttstock support on any shooting bench. The wide stance delivers optimal stability for all long arm platforms while rubber feet at the four corners prevent slipping. Non-marrying rubber shooting pads keep the firearm in place and are easily adjustable.

Suggested Retail Price: $42.99

www .MTMCaselk-Gard .com

No.15 Slim Stainless Steel Folding Fillet Knife

The six-inch blade of the Opinel No.15 folding is large enough to filet large fish and its 6 ¾ inch folded size fits nicely into just about any tackle box and its 3-ounce weight makes it handy for anglers ``fishing on the go”. All Opinel slim knives have a narrow flexible 12C27 stainless steel blade for maximum precision.

Suggested Retail Price: $28.00

www .opinel-usa .com

STANLEY Rechargeable Lithium Ion Ultra Bright LED Spotlight Flashlight

Ideal for camping, boating, outdoor activities and just general use the Stanley spotlight delivers up to 2,200 lumens with 10W ultra-bright LED. The Lithium-ion battery stays charged up to 12 months and provides a runtime of 7 hours on low setting. It offers a convenient trigger lock for a hands-free operation and comes with AC and DC charging adaptors.

Suggested Retail Price: $60.00

www .stanleytools .com

Take a Vacation Trip to Alabama and Explore Our Natural Wonders

BY CHRIS BLANKENSHIP Commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation & Natural Resources

May is the start of vacation season around the nation, and Alabama offers a wealth of opportunities for those searching for rest and relaxation as well as recreational activities.

The Alabama State Parks System (www.alapark. com) provides visitors a direct connection with the diverse ecosystems our great state offers, from the Appalachian Mountains and Tennessee River Valley to the sugar sand beaches of Alabama’s beautiful Gulf Coast.

People from all over the world flock to Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Dauphin Island to enjoy our beaches, just sitting with their toes in the sand and listening to the soothing sounds of the waves breaking at the water’s edge. Anyone who has traveled I-65 on weekends during the late spring and summer knows how many people flock to our beautiful coast.

Many take advantage of the opportunity to fish for the abundant species that inhabit our coastline and the Gulf of Mexico.

The Gulf State Park (GSP) Pier is a great place to start. Anglers often hook a variety of species, including whiting, spotted seatrout, redfish, flounder, Spanish mackerel and an occasional king mackerel.

As most of you know, the GSP Pier sustained damage to the octagon and end of the pier during Hurricane Sally in 2020. The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) and the State Parks Division have completed the effort to secure federal and state environmental and construction permits, engineering and design and have bid the repair project. Contracting with the bidder is now underway. The repair work will begin later this year.

In the meantime, to make the best of the situation, the pier was reopened in 2021 with 725 feet of fishing space on each side of the pier to give GSP guests and visitors the best opportunity to take advantage of this

CWD Numbers, Year Two

Deer hunting is not only a time honored tradition for many, it’s also a huge economic engine for many states Protecting that precious natural resource through CWD testing is incredibly important

The best-case scenario in a bad situation .

None of us at the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division (WFF) wanted to hear the words “Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is in Alabama.” However, on January 7, 2022, that’s exactly what we heard. We knew it was inevitable, but we were still hoping it would take a bit longer to get here.

the spread of CWD by following the CWD regulations.

BY CHARLES “CHUCK” SYKES Director of the Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries (WFF)

When MS and TN found their first cases in 2018, we knew it was simply a matter of time before it crossed the line into Alabama, but CWD spreads slowly without artificial movements, and Alabama hunters had done their part to limit human assistance in

Hunters also stepped up and contributed more than 900 samples for us during the last month of the 2021-22 season. Of those 922 hunter-harvested samples, only one other deer tested positive. Once the social media conspiracy theorists settled down and calmer heads prevailed, I’d say we ended last deer season on an extremely positive note. Even though we had found CWD, the prevalence seemed extremely low based on our samples, and the overwhelming majority of hunters understood and supported the direction WFF was taking.

For the upcoming season, CWD regulations were passed in hopes of preventing artificial movement of CWD and to maintain a rigorous testing protocol in the CWD Management Zone (CMZ). The three points of the regulation were:

1. The entire CMZ will fall within the boundaries of Zone A for season dates and bag limits.

2. Baiting and supplemental feeding of wildlife will be suspended within the CMZ. The only exceptions are feed in an active hog trap or bird feeders located within 100 feet of a building or occupied dwelling.

3. Mandatory testing of harvested deer in the High-Risk Zone (HRZ) and Buffer Zone (BZ) will take place during certain time periods. However, it is strongly recommended that all deer harvested within the CMZ be submitted for CWD testing.

During the off-season, we all at WFF were wondering how many hunter-harvested samples would be collected this year and what the results would show. We hoped for at least 3,000 samples with no additional CWD positives.

Hunters stepped up again this year and submitted samples from approximately 3,600 white-tailed deer harvested statewide with 1,100 of those samples collected within the CMZ during the 2022-2023 hunting season. Despite a few critics blowing smoke on social media, the overwhelming majority of hunters who interacted with WFF staff were cordial and supportive. Of those more than 3,600 samples, only one additional CWD positive was detected this season. The positive sample, which was located in close proximity to the second positive from last season, was voluntarily submitted by a hunter as part of our ongoing CWD monitoring efforts.

WFF received confirmation of the positive sample on February 15 around 5 pm. A press release was issued on February16 informing the public shortly after WFF had contacted the hunter who had submitted the sample. WFF hoped that no new CWD-positive deer would be discovered this season even though we figured it would happen.

But, if it had to happen, I’d take the odds of 1 out of 1100 in the CMZ and 0 out of 2,500 in the rest of the state. I’d say that is the best-case scenario of a bad situation. I’m thankful we aren’t like MS or TN where the prevalence rates are much higher. So, what do we do now?

First, don’t panic. This isn’t the end of the world. Second, have some common sense and don’t listen to the conspiracy theorists on social media. Here are a few of their best delusional rants:

• “It’s all about the money! They had to say they found a case to keep the money rolling in next year to pad their pockets to do absolutely nothing but sit back and collect money for “research and studies” for something that’s not even there.”

• “Seems convenient to send out an email 1 week after the season closes to say they had one deer that tested positive. One out of 1100, who knows honestly. It’s just hard to trust anything in our government. Not sure what the requirements are to receive money available for fighting it.”

• “Game wardens already know that it’s been here for a while, but it’s been hush hush.”

• “If we really had it, it’d be more than three deer in two years.”

Even though it’s a great catchphrase, “It’s all about the money” doesn’t really work in this case. Since I started in 2012, WFF hasn’t received one penny from an outside source to test for CWD. The money used to buy equipment, pay staff, and test samples comes from our existing

budget. I wish at least one of these all-knowing social media warriors could “show me the money!” We could certainly use some of the fictitious windfall of CWD dollars.

Why would the “game wardens” keep it hush hush? Especially with the promise of all that CWD money coming in. This statement is just ludicrous. People have been demanding government accountability and transparency for years and, when we are transparent, we get criticized for that as well.

We sent out the press release within 24 hours of receiving the sample confirmation from the lab, so insinuating that we were hiding something until after the season is ridiculous. By using just a tiny bit of common sense, anyone could do just a bit of research to see that WFF announced the first CWD positive last year with one month left in the season.

The final comment is just an example of how these people think. They always look at the downside of every situation. Instead of the glass half-full, it’s always half-empty. 1 deer out of 1100 in 2022-23 is a great thing not a bad one. I’ll gladly take those percentages.

Haters will always hate. Crooks will always be crooks. And, fools will always be fools. CWD is not a game. It is a serious issue that must be dealt with to protect the natural resources and the hunters of Alabama. It’s a serious issue that must be dealt with. Sticking your head in the sand is not the solution to the problem. By continuing to work together, hunters and WFF can accomplish the best outcomes for our deer herd and our hunting heritage. Actions and decisions related to CWD are never made for consideration of (fictitious) money. They are made for Alabama’s deer herd’s long-term sustainability and hunters’ ability to utilize a healthy resource.

How to Choose a Kayak Trailer

BY ED MASHBURN

CONSIDERATIONS WHEN CHOOSING A KAYAK TRAILER

A trailer for kayak hauling presents some advantages and also some drawbacks for kayak anglers who want to get their paddle craft to the water. Kayak trailers are a much more complicated system with wheels, tires, axles, lights and other parts which can break or malfunction. Car top carriers are simple, easy to install and rarely present problems when in use.

Prices for kayak trailers vary greatly. A small, light weight short-range trailer for a single kayak might cost less than $500. A more substantial, better built and better material trailer could run into the thousands. It all depends on the needs of the specific kayak angler.

Kayak anglers can find a wide range of trailers suitable for their use by looking online for DIY trailers or by checking with local kayak shops for

fully assembled ready to roll kayak trailers.

For kayak anglers who can’t or don’t want to use raw back power to lift a kayak to the top of a car, a trailer can provide safe transport of a kayak with minimal lifting and stress.

TRAILER MATERIALS

What a kayak trailer is made of is vital. This is no place for cheap, shoddy materials. Even though a kayak trailer will not be under the same weight requirements as a full-sized powerboat trailer, the effects of bad materials which break, warp, and simply give out are the same. Corrosion resistant metal, strong, well-constructed frames, and high quality axles, wheels, bearings, and tires are critical for kayak trailer construction. Kayak trailer lights are another point of potential weakness. Those lights and wiring need constant attention to make sure they work properly.

Photos by Ed Mashburn

Lightweight kayak trailers can very effectively transport kayaks

HANDLING

Most kayak trailers are almost unnoticeable to the driver when under way. Since these trailers are not carrying a heavy load, they can tend to get a bit “squirrely” at high speed, so drivers must keep an eye on the trailer behind when at speed. Lightweight kayak trailers can be “bouncy” on rough dirt roads, so speed should be kept low when on rough, unimproved roadways.

LOADING

It’s tempting to see that kayak trailer as a way to carry more load than can be taken in the tow vehicle. This is permissible- up to a point- but kayak users need to be aware of each trailer’s load capacity and not exceed this limit. A too heavily loaded kayak trailer will not tow correctly, and the too heavy load puts a real strain on tires, wheels, and wheel bearings.

GEAR STORAGE BESIDES KAYAK

Many kayak trailers have closed, secure storage built in as part of the trailer itself. This is really very nice, because paddles, PFDs, fishing gear, camping gear, and other necessary gear can be carried safely on the trailer. Again, care must be taken to ensure that the trailer’s weight limit is not exceeded.

Some really first-rate kayak hauling trailers have been built by owners with tools and skill who converted standard utility trailers with their much higher load limits and bigger, more roadworthy tires and wheel assemblies into kayak haulers and gear carrier trailers.

HOW MANY KAYAKS CAN BE CARRIED?

Depending on the trailer and how the support structure and how kayak bunks are set up, a kayak trailer can safely carry from a single to a double to even four or more kayaks for kayak anglers’ use. Of course, custommade kayak carriers used by float trip purveyors and other high- use situations can carry up to a dozen or more kayaks

It all depends on what the kayak angler needs.

SECURITY

Most kayak trailers provide very secure “lockdown” points where kayaks under transport can be securely chained or strapped to the trailer for security. Most of the built-in storage boxes on kayak trailers are lockable, also.

DURABILITY

This is a crucial consideration. A kayak trailer, like any other boat trailer, is only as strong as its materials and its construction.. Kayak trailers need to be made of steel or strong aluminum, and the fittings and attachment gear need to be corrosion resistant. Plain steel will rust and corrode in marine surroundings very soon, even if the trailer is never backed into the salt water. Trailer lights are another part of the trailer that can be problematic. Check those back ups and turn signals before each trip.

Also, many kayak trailers are sold as unassembled packages, and if the parts are not assembled correctly, the trailer may wear out and cause problems within a short period of time. Putting a trailer together that is going to transport a kayak or kayaks to the water is not a situation for shoddy work in assembly.

FAQ

DOES A KAYAK TRAILER NEED TO BE REGISTERED?

This varies from state to state. A kayak angler must check the specific laws of the state of residence and register the trailer and license it if the state requires it for other trailers.

HOW MUCH DOES A KAYAK TRAILER WEIGH?

This varies from brand to brand and model to model. Mostly, trailers built specifically for kayak use will weigh less than 500 pounds, so they are light enough in most cases for the owner to move and store by hand. Some kayak trailers are light enough that they fold up and can be stored on a wall hanging system to cut down on storage space of the trailer.

HOW TO HAUL KAYAKS ON A TRAILER?

It’s pretty simple. Make sure the kayak is ready to travel and safe, load the kayaks on the trailer, secure them properly with plenty of tie-downs and security straps, and hit the road. Most kayak haulers find it easier and more secure to load the kayaks only after the trailer is hitched to the tow vehicle.

Oh, yes, don’t forget the paddles

CAN YOU PULL A KAYAK TRAILER WITH A SMALL CAR?

As long as the car has a hitch installed for the trailer attachment, even the smallest of cars can safely pull a kayak trailer when loaded.

Even bicycles can pull a kayak trailer if the trailer connection is built for such use.

Hauling a kayak trailer is not a heavy load for even the smallest of tow vehicles.

CONCLUSION

Kayak trailers are not for every kayak angler. They present considerably more complications than car-topping or simply loading the kayak in the bed of a pickup truck for a run to the water. However, for longer-distance transport of more than a single kayak or for kayak anglers who can’t manage the lifting involved, a properly built, properly maintained trailer is a very effective and affordable way to get the kayak to the water.

Gulf Coast Fishing Outlook

BY CHRIS VECSEY

MISSISSIPPI

Anglers looking for redfish and speckled trout will want to hit the barrier islands this month.

Walking and wading the beaches while focusing on sandbar points and deep-water troughs are the best methods for baits will consistently produce trophy fish. Hard baits like the Mirrolure MR 27 and the Yo-Zuri Inshore Twitch Bait are good choices. Soft plastics like the Matrix Shad and the slick lure will also get the job done.

Big jacks will be out in force this month! Brennan Giles with a monster from the beach!

Photo courtesy Chris Vecsey

Live baits like croaker and menhaden are top choices. These baits should be fished on the bottom or freelined. Flounder are also a common catch during the month of May. Live bull minnows are the “go-to” bait, but soft plastic paddle tails and grubs will also work very well. The best action for flounder will be in depths of two to eight feet.

Triple tail will be abundant throughout the sound. These prized fish can be located around channel markers, crab trap floats, and debris. Many baits and lures will work for

triple tail, but nothing beats a live shrimp.

ALABAMA

Surf fishing will be red hot throughout the month. Speckled trout, redfish, flounder, pompano and many others can be taken from the beaches. Redfish and trout will respond well to top water l ures, twitch baits, and various soft plastics. Flounder are best caught with soft plastics fished tight to the bottom. Flounder action will be best around washouts and deep troughs. Pompano can be caught on typical two hook surf rigs using baits like shrimp, sand fleas, and Fishbites. Bait placement should be staggered at various distances and depths from the shoreline.

Slightly further offshore king and Spanish mackerel will be active around bait schools and structures. Trolling with spoons, diving plugs, and duster/cigar minnow combinations will work best. Troll these lures and baits at speeds of four to five knots. Depths will vary but mackerel can be taken anywhere from 20 to over 100 feet.

May is an excellent month for bottom fishing Alabama’s artificial reefs. Mangrove, lane, and vermilion snappers can be found around these structures. Vermilion and lane snapper can be best caught with two hook rigs baited with squid or small pieces of cut bait. Different techniques are typically required for tackle shy mangrove snapper. Lighter leader sizes of 20-30 pound fluorocarbon and 1/0 to 3/0 circle hooks will produce more mangroves. Freelining works best for mangroves, but weight may be added as needed.

Further offshore, tuna, wahoo, billfish and mahi will move in around offshore platforms and popular bottom structures like the Steps and the Spur. Knowing where optimal water conditions can

be found is critical. It pays to subscribe to a satellite imaging service like Hiltons Real Time Navigator to help you locate ideal conditions.

FLORIDA PANHANDLE

Inshore fishing will be good throughout the panhandle for speckled trout, redfish, and flounder. Speckled trout and redfish will be found in good numbers around grass beds, channel edges and piers.

Flounder can be found on the same structures as redfish and trout but also along the bottoms of main channels.

Surf fishing will still be strong throughout the month. Pompano will be reliable until water temperatures reach 80 degrees and above. Redfish, Spanish mackerel, and whiting will remain activ e. Incoming tide is generally best and around deeper troughs and washouts.

Offshore, around deep bottom contours, rips and the FADs, wahoo and mahi will be popular targets. Trolling with time-tested lures like Ilanders, yo zuri bonitos and various jet heads/chuggers will keep rods bent. Speed choices will depend on the types of lures used but may be as slow as 5-6+knots or as high as 15+.

Contact Information

Hilton’s

Pier & Shore

Fishing Outlook

BY DAVID THORNTON

Photos by David Thornton

MID-SPRING CORNUCOPIA

Spring fishing options abound this month for shorebound anglers when just about anything from pompano to mackerel, cobia and other pelagic fish show up just off the beaches of the Emerald Coast. The weather is mild, often with clear skies and light winds. Water temperatures typically rise steadily through the upper 70s in May, often reaching 80 degrees by Memorial Day. Warmer water sparks a spurt of growth and renewal in the surfzone as many species are spawning.

This year May gives us three NEAP tide periods, centering on the 1st, 15th and 29th of the month. Significant diurnal tide changes of up to two feet will dominate the weeks between the NEAPs. The full moon of May 5th signals the end is near for the pompano and cobia “spring runs” as their spawning time winds down but additional species are swimming in to fill the gap.

An influx of blue runners (“hardtails”) and ladyfish (“skipjack”) along with larger female Spanish mackerel means they are preparing for their first major spawn of the season. All sorts of intermediate and large predatory fish are drawn near to shore by the huge shoals of four to six inch long “baitfish” species gathering for their initial spawn as well. These schools can be readily seen even from a distance on calm May mornings when densely packed shoals of scad, sardines, and herring darken the surface. The sound of all those fish feeding on phytoplankton at the surface sounds like rain falling on the water. King and Spanish mackerel, bluefish and jacks lurk deep below the baitfish and charge through them with alarming speed and deftness. All this activity from an increasing number of species give pier anglers an astounding variety of possible targets.

Non-stop action occurs at times when conditions align to bring fish within casting distance to the pier

Pompano are a favorite target species for surf fishing anglers this month .

In the past, pier fishers used “cigar minnows”, sardines and herring as bait (live or fresh dead) primarily for king and spanish mackerel. Catching these baitfish using gold hook rigs, sabiki rigs or ribbon rigs could be a task in and of itself some days, depending upon their general availability and disposition around the pier. Usually the presence of predatory species press baitfish schools closer to the pier for protection. Some baitfish may even try to hide in the pier shadow, but so will their predators. And savvy pier anglers have learned this trick as well.

Nowadays a growing contingent of pier anglers use four to eight inch long artificial diving plugs like Yozuri Crystal Minnow or Rapala X-Rap to target mackerel along with jack crevalle and Little tunny (“bonita”). It is a faster pace of fishing that calls for more endurance from the angler due to repeated casts. but ut in a sudden flash of silver, a mackerel can strike a lure out of nowhere, and streak out into the Gulf 100 to 300 yards! For this reason anglers use reels with corresponding line capacity on rods (eight to nine feet long) with sufficient backbone to bring the fish back to the pier and prevent it from diving under the pier.

Even as fewer cobia (however many that might be) swim past the Gulf beach piers through May, tarpon and perhaps mahi or sailfish might show up any day near the deep end of the piers. Meanwhile inshore, pompano are thinning out even as greater numbers of ladyfish move in to dominate the surfzone.

At times it seems these mini-tarpon will strike at anything that moves, providing hours of fun for newcomers to the sport. Though ladyfish (as well as blue runner) are quite edible, most anglers are intent on the more desirable mackerel for eating. All are readily caught on a variety of baits and lures from single or multiple jigs, to spoons, and small plugs. An erratic retrieve usually triggers a strike response from any of the mid-sized predators. Non-stop action occurs at times when conditions align to bring fish within casting distance to the pier.

As well, marauding schools of hard-pulling jack crevelle and “bull” redfish might suddenly appear with little notice until a frenzy erupts on a school of hapless baitfish. That’s when sheer bedlam breaks loose as anglers scramble to get a bait or lure in front of the predators before they disappear or move out of casting range. The chaos doesn’t end there, because multiple hookups often cause multiple line crossings and tangles. Most are soon resolved and the angler is freed to fight and land their fish, but some are inadvertently broken off due to any number of reasons. Occasionally this leads to disagreements, but in general pier anglers are a resolute breed, quick to forgive accidents, and move on to the next fish.

GO FORTH, AND SURF FISH

Surf anglers are relatively free to spread out along any likely looking stretch of beach in search of pompano. It is rare for anglers to cross lines, or even have words with other fishermen. Though sometimes swimmers may provide them a bit of aggravation. In general though, May offers a respite for fishermen between the crazed spring break hordes and the vast numbers of summer vacationers. Besides, most people only get into the water during the warmest part of the day, from about 9am to 4pm. This provides anglers with windows of opportunity to fish unhindered in the early morning (dawn to about 9am), and late in the afternoon/evening.

Plus there are miles and miles of undeveloped shoreline to fish in the state parks and national seashores for anglers willing to walk any distance from access points. A well equipped beach cart with oversized wheels is a valuable piece of equipment for this endeavor.

With it, fishermen can carry their tackle, along with other gear, necessary or not.

Though pompano numbers may not be at peak this month, there are still plenty to be found by savvy surf casters willing to try different locations or approaches. The warm water is conducive to wadefishing, so working pompano jigs along sandbar edges is a great way to catch fish and get your feet wet. Pompano jigs usually weigh from ¼ to one ounce depending on conditions and tackle. Generally speaking it is easiest to use light or ultralight spinning tackle (four to six pound line) in the surf when conditions are calmest. This coincides with clear water, so the light line not only offers anglers more casting distance, but an advantage of not spooking wary pompano. Other fish readily strike these jigs as well. So there can be a lot of bycatch of ladyfish, blue runner, bluefish, spanish mackerel, whiting, redfish, and even flounder. Depending on what species are present, anglers should add a leader of clear monofilament or fluorocarbon in the 10 to 30 pound range to prevent cut-offs from sharp toothed species.

Farther west along the Alabama and Mississippi beaches, speckled trout can be added to the list of target species for wade fishers. Early mornings with light winds and rising tides are prime for catching speckled trout on topwater lures in the surf. Look for troughs (two to eight feet deep) just off the shoreline, and work the lure from the backside of the breakers all the way to the swash zone where hungry trout may be lurking. As the sun gets higher, try sinking lures or jigs to catch fish in deeper water.

Everybody is different in how far they wish to travel, and how much they are willing to carry. But there should be room for everyone on the piers, or on the beaches as they enjoy their great days outdoors.

REGIONAL FRESHWATER

Fishing Outlook

BY ED MASHBURN

It’s getting warm, and the fish will hold close to shoreline shade and structure .

Photos by Ed Mashburn

FLORIDA WATERS LAKE TALQUIN

It’s getting warm, maybe even hot, and the fishing is getting better. Jeff DuBree of Whippoorwill Lodge on Lake Talquin says that the bream fishing will be very good as the bream really get going on the spawning beds in shallow water. For both bluegill and shell crackers, anglers who throw Beetlespins on light tackle will have success. Live crickets always work for bream here. Working the bream on full moon times can be very effective.

“The bass will be post spawn in May, and there will be some schooling action. Bass anglers will want to fish main lake points early and late. The bass will move into deeper water in May, and anglers can catch them on crank baits and jigs if they work the sandy points,” DuBree said.

The white bass in Talquin will still be scattered and anglers can look for diving birds which will show where whites are chasing shad in open water. Make a quick run to the birds and throw shad-look lures into the feeding area, and the whites will respond.

Catfishing on Talquin will be good in May. Using stink bait and pond worms, anglers can expect some good eating size catfish. Work water in six to twelve foot depths for best catfish action in May.

APALACHICOLA RIVER SYSTEM

Late spring is a great time to get on the big Florida river to find a wide range of fish, both freshwater and saltwater. Tony Poloronis of Outcasters Bait and Tackle in Apalachicola gave us some tips for May fishing in the river system.

First, a lot of the saltwater fighters such as redfish, trout and flounder will be making their way up the river past the town of Apalachicola and freshwater anglers should not be surprised to find these fish taking lures and bait sent for freshwater fish.

Poloronis said that bass anglers will find some good bass near cover using soft plastics, spoons with some flash, and especially Snagless Sally spinners. These should be worked close to the cover. If an angler can find some large minnows or shiners, the bass will jump all over them.

Shellcrackers will still be on the beds in places in the backwaters, but many of the big bream will have pulled back to deeper open water. Live worms are good when fished near the bottom.

SEMINOLE LAKE

Catfish anglers can fish drop off sand ledges where the catfish will collect in ten to twelve foot water after their spawning is complete. All kinds of live bait and prepared stink bait will work on the cats in May.

”Bass fishing is good. The fish are mostly post-spawn with some fish still spawning. There is also a shad spawn going on all over the lake. Target main lake grass lines with a ½ oz. Buddha Blade in sexy shadthe new one with serrated blades puts out more flash and seems to attract more strikes,” said Captain Matt Batty, a long-time bass tournament angler and guide.

Batty continues,works well for early morning top water shad spawn bites,” he added.

There are also fish suspended in the timber in Spring Creek. Use a Lowrance Down Scan to locate schools of bass suspended next to stumps in the creek.

A good bait to catch the suspended bass is a five-inch Big Bite Baits Suicide Shad in pearly shad pattern.

ALABAMA WATERS SIPSEY FORK

The year-round rainbow trout fishing at Sipsey Fork is prime in May, and Randy Jackson of Riverside Fly Shop said that the trout bite at will, as always, be weather related, and if typical spring weather occurs, a caddis fly hatch will come off in May, and also lots of terrestrial bugs, especially ants, will be on the trouts’ menu.

Toward the end of May going into June, the first mayfly hatch should come off, and these will be larger mayflies. Dry fly fishing should be quite good.

Anglers can target the size of trout they seek by focusing on different parts of the river. Up close to the dam, the oxygen levels are higher and there are lots of smaller bugs, and the trout tend to be smaller and somewhat easier to catch. As anglers move downstream away from the dam, the trout tend to get larger, more like wild trout, and they eat larger bugs. At any point along the river, anglers can expect to catch trout from nine to sixteen inches long, with the bigger fish farther downstream.

If the skipjacks come up to the dam in good numbers this year, they should still be around in May, and they are loads of fun to catch on flashy, fast-moving flies.

Jackson said that Riverside Fly Shop carries a huge assortment of flies for anglers to select, and as a help in the choice, flies which have been productive recently are marked with orange tags.

To make trip planning easier for anglers, the generating schedule for the Smith Dam is posted every day on the Riverside Fly Shop website, or a call to the shop will provide current conditions.

LAKE EUFAULA

According to verteran Eufaula guide Captain Sam Williams, s that the topwater bite for bass at Eufaula should be very good in May. The frog bite in particular should be good. Fish around the grass and other growing structure. Don’t be afraid to throw a weedless frog into the roughest cover possible- some big bass will be up in the shallows.

In general at Eufaula in May, bass anglers need to start each day with gold colored lures. For whatever reason, Eufaula bass seem to prefer gold colored lures.

Crappie can be very good in May at Eufaula. Anglers can find the slabs with small jigs in a wide range of colors. Start with chartreuse, and then work other colors to see which color the crappie prefer on particular days.

It’s always a good day to go cat fishing at Eufaula, and May is one of the best months for catfish. Big chunks of cut bait fished on the bottom where feeder creeks run into the main lake are great spots to find some big cats.

WEISS LAKE

Captain Lee Pitts said, “May is about the tail end of crappie spawning, and this means that we’ll be shooting deeper docks as the crappie pull off their shallow water spawning waters and head out toward deeper open water.”

For about two weeks in May, the crappie will be stacked up under certain docks. Anglers may have to look around a bit to find the best deep docks, but when located, the crappie will be thick.

For bass anglers at Weiss Lake, May is a great time to be on the water.

Pitts told us that May is the kickoff of a great spinner bait bite. Also, the top water bite will really get going.

The bank grass at Weiss along the shallows will hold lots of bass, and Pitts said that anglers can catch bass just about anywhere on topwater lures- especially soft plastic frogs.

There will be hot jig and trailer bite on the grass, too. Pitts recommends the Gene Larue Wheeler Punchout Craw as a trailer on jigs

In May, bass anglers can’t go far wrong by fishing very shallow water. The bass will be found in water much shallower than most anglers think possible. When the trolling motor starts throwing up mud, the angler is getting in good territory for Weiss Lake bass.

LAKE GUNTERSVILLE

Spring bass fishing on massive Lake Guntersville can be red-hot, and veteran guide Captain Jake Davis said that in the middle and later parts of the month, the shad will start their spawn, and this really gets the bass feeding. Throwing light colored willow leaf spinner baits over the flats where the shad gather to spawn is a good bet. Bass will be found on the main channel docks, and emerging grass beds will be places to find bass on the feed.

For the top water bait, anglers can try buzz baits or Spooks. Throw over emerging grass or along weedlines for good top water action.

The middle sections of the lake should be very good. The Goose Pond area can be hot in May.

Crappie will be back in the deeper creek mouths, and anglers looking for some real light tackle fun can find big shell crackers bedding up on deeper hard bottom areas and shell banks.

LAKE WILSON/PICKWICK

LAKE

Veteran guide and big catfish specialist Captain Brian Barton tells us that catfish will be feeding heavily in the days leading up to their spawning. Fish can be caught from 2 to 70 feet of water this month depending on where you want to fish. To locate shallow fish, check out logjams in cuts along the main river bank on both sides of the river. Logs stack in the backs of these pockets and cats seek their cover for spawning. Barton said, “I fish these areas by rigging spinning tackle with 14 lb Vicious mono and a 3/0 Mister Twister Keeper red worm hook. I place a 1/16 or 1/8 oz sinker about 8 to 10 inches under the hook creating a dropshot rig.”

Barton advised that anglers should cast your bait up against or just under the floating logs and hold steady keeping a tight line. Worms, shrimp, shad, and skipjack all work well with this application. For larger fish, seek out 15 to 40 feet of water in the mid to rear potions of sloughs on the south end of the lake.

Pickwick Lake, like Wilson, will be hot for cats throughout the month. Fish will be on top of and along river ledges as well as the tops and backs of humps and mounds in the river channel. Blues will be staging heavily at the base of Wilson Dam this month.

It’s not uncommon for local anglers to catch 50 to 75 fish each day

along the tailrace. Eddy pockets and any slack water areas downstream of the dam are likely to be holding cats.

Barton said, “A favorite spot of mine this month is to fish the knees of cypress trees from Seven Mile Island downstream to the Sinking Creek area. Channel cats will often load up in droves under these trees for spawning. I cast worms, prepared baits, or chicken livers underneath the trees to catch the fish.”

MILLER’S FERRY

Joe Dunn knows the fishing at Miller’s Ferry quite well, and he told us that the crappie will be out of bedding areas and in five to twelve feet of water. Crappie can be caught on Road Runners and tube jigs vertically jigged around stumps and other wood cover.

Many of the crappie will be taken on drop-shot rigs baited with live minnows out on the main river channels. Trolling the larger creeks will produce crappie in May if the angler uses live minnows and jigs.

Bass at Miller’s Ferry will be off the beds by May, and anglers should look around shallow grass with spinner baits. Major lake channels will be hot for bass when fished with crank baits and soft plastics on Carolina rigs.

A key point for Miller’s Ferry anglers looking for success is to try and plan trips around moving water. When the dam is releasing water and there’s some current in the lake, the bass just bite better. Anglers can call the Miller’s Ferry powerhouse at 334-682-4896 to get water release schedules for each day.

Important Contact Information

Joe Dunn Dunn’s Sports 334-636-0850 33356 Hwy 43, Thomasville, AL

Captain Sam Williams Hawks Guide Service 334-687-0400

Brandon Jackson/ Randy Jackson Riverside Fly Shop 17027 Hwy 69N Jasper, AL 256-287-9582 Riversideflyshop.com

Captain Lee Pitts 256-390-4145 www.leepittsoutdoors.com

Captain Brian Barton 256-412-0960 brianbartonoutdoors.com

Captain Jake Davis Mid-South Bass Guide Service 615-613-2382 msbassguide@comcast.net

Jeff DuBree Whippoorwill Sportsman’s Lodge Lake Talquin 850-875-2605 fishtalquin@gmail.com

Captain Matt Baty 229-726-0153 bassinboots@yahoo.com

Tony Poloronis Outcasters Bait and Tackle 631 Hwy 98, Apalachicola, Florida 850-653-4665

Recreational Land Loans Explained

BY WILLIAM KENDY

The bottom line is that today our society has the capability of producing more of just about everything. We can make more cars, grow more food, produce more food, sew more clothes, build more homes, apartments and businesses and just about everything except for two things: We cannot make more time or land.

Land is a good long-term investment and can be a revenue producer depending on what you are trying to accomplish. Property that was viewed kind of marginal can suddenly appreciate in value depending on where it is located and where development is headed. Land that seemed in the past to be “out in the middle of nowhere” suddenly had a perception change when communities grew and expanded and had a need for additional homes, retail and warehouse/commercial space, health care facilities and public facilities such as airports and utilities.

Add to all this the demand for rural properties, sometimes folks, for a number of reasons, want to buy themselves a piece of rural property. It may be for a rural homestead, a min-farm, a mineral, timber and/or pine straw investment, or to have some recreational land just to be able to get away from our busy everyday life and camp, hike, have fun off-roading or as hunting property.

Anyone who has purchased a home is familiar with the basic steps of getting a mortgage, but buying recreational land is a tad different. To find out what is entailed in buying recreational land we reached out to Taylor Hart who is the manager for the Auburn/Opelika branch of First South Farm Credit in Alabama.

First South Farm Credit is part of the National Farm Credit System and has been financing land since 1916 with 44 branches serving 11,000 members in Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi with loans outstanding totaling over 2.9 billion. First South specializes in providing credit for farming operations that include crops, livestock, land and timber and finances lifestyle homes, rural home sites or rural land tracts for enjoyment or investment purposes.

Hart addressed the general terms for recreational land purchases

“We can lend up to 85% of the value of a piece of property which means a buyer has to come up with 15% as a down payment,” Hart pointed out. “When it comes to the interest rate on the borrowed amount Hart said that the rates are based on several factors.”

“One is the financial history and strength of the borrower. The stronger the financial position of the borrower the lower the rate will be,” Hart said. “Another factor that influences rates and terms of the loan is how much money the purchaser is willing to put into the deal, over the 15%, which results in a stronger collateral position. Rates can also be influenced by the length of terms. Typically, the shorter terms, the lower the rate.”

Hart explained that in addition to cash, a buyer can use other owned land or buildings to apply towards the down payment.

“If the purchaser has other land or agricultural collateral that is mortgage free, we can usually take that in lieu of a down payment allowing the purchaser to hang on to their cash for use elsewhere,” Hart advised. There are some special considerations and “wrinkles’ for purchasing recreational land.

“At First South we look at purchases over 10 acres as an Ag loan versus a consumer loan and treat it as such,” Hart said. “The advantage of Ag loans is that

there are less governmental regulations and compliance issues, which means less red tape and a quicker purchase to close time frame.”

“When a person purchases land and First South finances that purchase, the buyer is free to use the land in any way they deem fit whether it is for income generation purposes or strictly for recreational enjoyment to establish their own piece of paradise” he added.

We asked Hart about the process, steps, time frame, and what documentation buyers need to have to streamline the process.

“Whether the purchaser wants to get pre-approved or they come to us after signing a contract the process is pretty much the same,” Hart pointed out. “Obviously, on a pre- approval we do not know the sales price and consequently we will not be able to calculate the exact loan amount, so we use the loan amount requested by the borrower.”

“One of our most popular loan programs covers loans up to $250,000 and is a credit score-based loan that is seamless. In this scenario, the borrower fills out a one-page application, provides a current pay stub and we load them into the system to be scored. That is all it takes. It is very popular with our members due to the simplicity and short time frame it takes to close,” Hart explained. For loans over $250,000 First South requires tax returns and a couple other pieces of financial information in order to do a financial analysis.”

“Upon receipt of an executed contract First South will order title work, an appraisal or internal valuation, whichever is needed, and also coordinate the closing with an attorney,” Hart said. “We provide these services to our member free of charge and it relieves them from doing all of the leg work to coordinating all the moving parts of getting from contract to closing.”

FIRST SOUTH FARM CREDIT MEMBER PATRONAGE PROGRAM

FSFC is a member-owner cooperative providing short, intermediate and longterm financing and related services to full and part time farmers, agricultural related businesses and rural landowners.

One of the benefits of doing business with FSFC is that you become a member and through its patronage program you actually receive money back.

“First South Farm Credit announced in March that it will distribute $21 million in patronage refund checks to its member/borrowers in April. A patronage refund is a payment from a cooperative to a member/borrower based on its earnings and financial performance in proportion to the borrower’s use of the cooperative,” said Gines Perez, CEO of First South. “Thanks to our member/borrowers, 2022 was another year of strong performance. As a result, the First South Board of Director has declared a cash patronage of $22 million, representing a refund of 15.63% on the interest earned on loans by our member/borrowers.”

“This is the 28th consecutive year for First South to continue the commitment of sharing in our success with our member/borrowers,’ stated Trey Martin, Chairman of the FSFC Board of Directors. “Over this period of time, First South has distributed patronage refunds totaling over $460 million to our members/ borrowers. By offering competitive interest rates and distributing a portion of our portion of our profits to our member/borrowers, we reduce their effective cost of borrowing.”

PRIME FEEDING TIMES

This chart is specifically designed for fishing times in the Mobile/Tensaw Delta & other tidally influenced waters of South Alabama.

Mobile / Tensaw Delta May 2023

Fowl River

Fort Morgan

Mobile River

Perdido Pass

Pensacola Bay

Destin East Pass

Navarre Beach

Biloxi Bay

Pascagoula

Andy Anderson caught this 8lb, 12 oz trophy in J Emmit Wood State Lake in February.

Photo by Clayton Horton

Brian Wycoff with a bragging size red snapper

Matt Swiggum with his personal best

KID'S CORNER TROPHY ROOM

Andrew McLaurin age 14 is rightfully proud of his beautiful tom

Hunter Travis with a nice bucketmouth

Jim Chastain, 8, killed his first deer in Beatrice, Al with a .223 rifle.

1ST Deer

Mason Flowers, 9 and father Clint take down these two in Baldwin County on opening day

Jackson and C.J Horton caught these in February in Millry, Alabama

Daszczuk,

May is Bream Month on Lake Wilson

BY BRIAN BARTON

May is the best month of the year for bream fishing.

While I concentrate on Wilson Lake for big bluegill and shellcrackers, fish can readily be caught all month from most north Alabama reservoirs and lakes.

Most spawning activity occurs three days before to three days after the first full moon in May or April if the full moon is after the 25th.

Best locations for bedding bream are pea gravel or chirt banks along the main lake or major feeder creeks. Shoals Creek, McKernan Creek and Town Creek produce nice shellcrackers and gills. In the main lake look for gravel bars on flats that drop quickly into deeper water.

One of my favorite spots where bream bed every year is along a main lake shoreline where my boat sits in 65 feet of water while I’m casting into two to four feet of water. Bream like the quick access to deep water to avoid predators.

The presence of wood or grass is not necessary for good bream bedding areas but it’s always a bonus. Bream will bed in openings in weed beds and along the outside edges. Many times spawning will take place on the leeward side of a log jam.

As far as baits and lures go, keep it simple. For baits my preference in the following order are: red worms, mussel meat, cut up minnows, crickets, and shrimp. For lures go, if a black/yellow Baby Beetle Spin or 1/32 ounce black, yellow, or pink hair (Maribou) jigs won’t catch them they ain’t biting.

Always use the lightest gear possible. Ultralight tackle with six-pound test line or smaller is the best choice.

Contact Information

Captain Brian Barton 256-412-0969

brianbartonoutdoors.com.

Fish Are Smarter Than Us

something unappealing, they don’t want it. Give them something already abundant, they love it. No cooking, cleaning, or peeling. They don’t even need crackers.

The part I like best is that for a fish, getting fat is a good thing. The more calories they pack in, the better. They don’t work out at the YMCA and the closest they get to exercise is swimming upstream.

BY JIM MIZE

Fishermen talk about outsmarting fish as if the sport involved some battle of brains. If that’s the case, we are walking unarmed into a war of wits.

That’s because fish are simply smarter.

Want proof? Consider this. On the best day any of us ever had, more than 99.9% of them got away. We drove over them without stopping, cast past them without a nibble or they got off. Several million fish evade us on every trip while we catch a few of them. On a good day. Some days, we get skunked.

That happens even though we spend hours reading about how to catch them and they never crack a book on how to get away. We attend seminars, go to conferences, and listen to experts with the goal of catching more fish. We buy the newest baits, try state of the art scents, and switch all the hooks on our lures to the sharpest ones available. All this time, the fish are just chilling.

Furthermore, fish never get lost. One dead tree we used for a marker can fall over and we are confused. When a heavy fog rolls in, we are stranded. After dark, it takes space-age electronics to get back to the boat ramp. A fish can find its way back to a stream it hasn’t seen since it was an egg. Even if it did get lost, a fish would probably have sense enough to ask for directions.

Think about this one for a moment. Small fish don’t even have to take swimming lessons. They are good to go from day one and never even need training wheels.

Better yet, fish have a backup plan. Through an effective public relations job, they have convinced us that the definition of sporting is the use of tackle that improves their chances of getting away. We’re already not catching 99.9% of them. Do you think they need an additional edge? Best of all, when we catch one, they’ve brainwashed us into thinking we should throw them back. These guys could sell potholes to the highway department.

Fish have the whole system figured out. Take their food, for instance. It all comes swimming or floating to them and it’s free. We have to fix our own and pay for it. Still feeling smarter?

Not only that, but fish don’t have to check their watches to see when it’s time for lunch. When they’re hungry, they eat. When they’re not, they don’t. Apparently, they even understand Solunar tables.

Also, their diet consists of food they want to eat. Offer them

Even the social life of a fish makes more sense. For example, fish have well-defined dating rituals. They have predetermined times to spawn, but only when they’re old enough. Better yet, no father fish has to worry about a buck bass with an earring coming home late at night with his daughter. No curfews and no back porch lights left on.

Big fish don’t even have to teach manners to little fish. If they don’t behave properly, something eats them. The system works.

Though I’ve never seen a study on it, it appears that all fish look good to other fish. Nor do they seem to waste much energy worrying about it. If they did, they’d dye their scales and have their fins trimmed. Probably get more spots or wider stripes down their sides. Apparently, they don’t need to against his will. No fish ever had his wife ask, “Are you really going to wear THAT?!”

Little fish don’t even have to worry about what they want to be when they grow up. They’re going to be fish. Can you imagine a school of small fry talking?

“Hey, I want to be a lunker when I grow up!”

“Me, too!”

Furthermore, all the things fishermen grumble about, fish take in stride. If it rains, so what? Maybe a worm will wash in.

Fish can spend all day at the lake without getting sunburned. Even without eyelids, fish eyes don’t get bloodshot.

Fish don’t have to get up early. They don’t have to prepare for your visit or buy a license. As far as they are concerned, they are always on time.

Best yet, if you go to the lake at every opportunity, you still only get to spend 10% of your time being a fisherman. They get to spend all their time being a fish. No wonder they’re good at it.

Their list of advantages goes on and on. Fish don’t sink. They never fall out of the lake. They never drop anything into your boat by accident. You don’t go home with fish trash. They never leave one iota of litter in your yard.

That’s all because fish are simply smarter than we are. Except for one thing we all have in common.

Whether fish or fisherman, it’s most likely our mouths that get us into trouble.

JIM MIZE thinks fish would talk if they thought we’d understand You can find his award-winning books of humor on Amazon or purchase autographed copies at www acreektricklesthroughit com