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Throw Yourself a Bone
The very best hunting knives possess a perfect balance of form and function. They’re carefully constructed from fine materials, but also have that little something extra to connect the owner with nature. If you’re on the hunt for a knife that combines impeccable craftsmanship with a sense of wonder, the $79 Huntsman Blade is the trophy you’re looking for.
The blade is full tang, meaning it doesn’t stop at the handle but extends to the length of the grip for the ultimate in strength. The blade is made from 420 surgical steel, famed for its sharpness and its resistance to corrosion.
The handle is made from genuine natural bone, and features decorative wood spacers and a hand-carved motif of two overlapping feathers— a reminder for you to respect and connect with the natural world.
This fusion of substance and style can garner a high price tag out in the marketplace. In fact, we found full tang, stainless steel blades with bone handles in excess of $2,000. Well, that won’t cut it around here. We have mastered the hunt for the best deal, and in turn pass the spoils on to our customers.
But we don’t stop there. While supplies last, we’ll include a pair of $99 8x21 power compact binoculars and a genuine leather sheath FREE when you purchase the Huntsman Blade Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. Feel the knife in your hands, wear it on your hip, inspect the impeccable craftsmanship. If you don’t feel like we cut you a fair deal, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the item price. Limited Reserves. A deal like this won’t last long. We have only 1120 Huntsman Blades for this ad only. Don’t let this beauty slip through your fingers. Call today!
Huntsman Blade $249* Offer Code Price Only $79 + S&P Save $170
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Your Insider Offer Code: HBK249-01
You must use the insider offer code to get our special price.
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Compact Binoculars -a $99 valuewith purchase of Huntsman Blade
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“This knife is beautiful!”
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14091 Southcross Drive W., Dept. HBK249-01 Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com
*Discount is only for customers who use the offer code versus the listed original Stauer.com price.
California residents please call 1-800-333-2045 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product.
• 12” overall length; 6 ¹⁄2” stainless steel full tang blade • Genuine bone handle with brass hand guard & bolsters • Includes genuine leather sheath
navigating peace of mind
THE IMPORTANCE OF BOAT INSURANCE
Embarking on the open water is an exhilarating experience, flled with the promise of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a weekend cruiser, protecting your vessel with proper insurance is not just a choice—it’s a necessity. Explore the reasons why every boat owner should prioritize boat insurance for a worry-free voyage.
Unpredictable waters
The open water can be unpredictable, with unexpected storms, collisions, or other potential accidents. Boat insurance can give you fnancial protection if there is damage to your vessel, providing coverage for repairs or replacement.
Damage and injury
Accidents on the water can result in damage to other boats, docks, or even injuries to passengers. Boat insurance offers liability coverage, which can pay for damages or injuries you’re liable for while boating, up to specifed limits, and lawsuit costs if you’re sued. This includes damage you cause to another watercraft or if someone on or near your boat is injured and you’re found to be legally responsible.
Theft and vandalism
Unfortunately, boat theft and vandalism are realities that boat owners face. Boat insurance has comprehensive and collision coverage that can protect you against events outside of your control, including theft and vandalism.
Incurred medical payments
Accidents on the water may lead to injuries for you or your passengers. Boat insurance offers a range of optional medical payments coverage limits, helping to cover medical expenses if you are in an accident or someone is hurt on your boat, regardless of fault.
Peace of mind for fnancing
If you fnanced the purchase of your boat, most lenders require insurance coverage to protect their investment. Having boat insurance not only fulflls these requirements but also gives you peace of mind knowing that your fnancial interests are safeguarded.
Navigational fexibility
Some water municipalities and marinas may require proof of insurance for docking or accessing certain areas. Boat insurance allows you the fexibility to explore different destinations without worrying about entry restrictions.
Emergency towing and assistance
Progressive boat insurance can include optional Sign & Glide® On-Water Towing coverage. If your boat is disabled or breaks down on the water, Sign & Glide® pays for on-water towing, jump starts, soft un-groundings, and fuel delivery.
Wreckage removal
If your boat sinks, Progressive boat insurance will cover the cost of removing your boat from the water (if removal is legally required).
Investing in boat insurance is not just about protecting a valuable asset; it’s about safeguarding the memories, experiences, and joy that come with your on-water adventures. Don’t let unforeseen circumstances disrupt your journey—navigate with confdence, knowing that Progressive boat insurance has you covered. Ensure a smooth and worry-free voyage, because when it comes to your boat, peace of mind is the ultimate luxury.
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Bill Dance Signature Lakes O er Impactful Improvements to Tennessee’s Fishing Waters
Frdom
A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE ‘MEDIA FISHING INDUSTRY’
By David Haggard & Heather Lose
LBy Ben Martin, Editor in Chief
et me !rst say that I am in no way a historian, nor has this material been researched to ensure its accuracy. is is simply my observations and my humble opinion of how and when the sport of !shing gained its foothold toward becoming America’s favorite pastime. Certainly, !shing had been a popular sport prior to its initial media welcoming in the 1960’s, but in my opinion its explosive growth can be traced to three events that catapulted it into its current National appeal.
Event #1 — ABC’s Wide World of Sports carries a marlin shing episode. Curt Goudy and Jim McKay hosted ABC’s Wide World of Sports and its popularity with a wide range of sports enthusiasts was viewed as a major success. However, by the sixth episode it was apparent that the show needed fresh material to keep their audience engaged so they put their cameras on a 62 . Hatteras to capture footage of a marlin catch and the world opened to the beautiful and extreme nature of o shore !shing. Viewers said to themselves, “I want to do that!”
Representatives from Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, and Tennessee State Parks celebrate the ribbon cutting of the Bill Dance Signature Lakes project at the Bassmaster Classic in Knoxville on March 25, along with the project’s namesake. Photo Courtesy of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development:
Event #2 — e Walker’s Cay Chronicles with Flip Pallot
Avid angler and creator of Hell’s Bay Ski s, Flip Pallot, developed a series of television shows called e Walker’s Cay Chronicles. In each episode Flip would narrate the pursuit of bill!shing in the Bahamas. His colorful description of “the shimmering waters” helped to romanticize the allure of sport!shing as something akin to an art form and, once again, people said to themselves, “I want to do that!”
Event #3 — Bill Dance begins lming his bass shing and tournament successes and becomes a national celebrity. And, one more time, people said to themselves, “I want to do that!”
e inertia that these three media events created caused an explosion in the !shing industry. e manufacturing and media industries jumped in to !ll the demand and meet the needs of a rapidly growing national pastime. Both entities have ever since been inextricably linked in a symbiotic relationship that has experienced continued rapid growth and a constantly growing demand for new products and new media outlets. And for that, Coastal Angler Magazine and e Angler Magazine salute ABC, Flip Pallot and Bill Dance, catalysts for making !shing America’s most popular pastime.
Check out some of the new products featured in this holiday edition of Coastal Angler Magazine and e Angler Magazine for gi ideas for your favorite angler.
Happy holidays!
HOLIDAY FOR ANGLERS GIFTS
Reel in the Perfect Holiday Gifts for Anglers and Outdoor Enthusiasts!
The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than by showing the anglers and outdoor enthusiasts in your life that you truly understand their passion? Finding the right gift can feel as tricky as reeling in a trophy fsh, but fear not! We’ve got some fantastic ideas that will have them casting their lines with glee.
As the holiday season rolls around, remember that the best gifts come from the heart. Whether it’s a high-tech fshing gadget, some fshing apparel or even a new boat or motor, these thoughtful presents are sure to delight the anglers and outdoor enthusiasts in your life. So, cast your line into the sea of gift ideas...you’re bound to reel in something special!
DRESSED TO KILL & FULLY LOADED
The quest to find the ultimate men’s watch has traditionally been a difficult one in the world of fashion. A timepiece with the perfect look and functionality has long been the goal of both watch designers and enthusiasts alike.
The Renegade Blue Chronograph Men’s Watch is the perfect combination of style and function. With a sleek design that features a bold blue dial, rose gold hands and hour markers, and a durable sports silicone band, this timepiece will instantly elevate any outfit.
The three sub-dials provide a precise timekeeping function. The sports silicone band is durable yet comfortable, providing a secure fit that won’t slide around on your wrist. The band is also easy to clean and maintain, making it perfect for everyday wear. The watch’s 30 Metre Water Resistance rating ensures that it has you covered whatever the occasion.
The Renegade Blue is also built to last, with a sturdy stainless steel caseback and exquisitely detailed bezel. The watch is powered by a super reliable quartz movement, which is covered by our incredible 5 Year Movement Warranty - ensuring accurate timekeeping for many years to come!
At the amazingly low price of just $99 plus S&H, this watch is an absolute steal. Don’t miss out on the chance to own the Renegade Blue and Rose Gold Chronograph Men’s Watch - order yours today!
A FISHING CHARTER IS THE PERFECT HOLIDAY GIFT
If you’re searching for the ultimate holiday gi! for an angler, consider giving them a shing charter experience with a professional guide or charter captain. is gi! goes beyond typical shing gear; it’s an opportunity for adventure, skill-building, and unforgettable memories on the water.
A guided shing charter o ers the chance to sh in prime locations, o!en with access to secret spots that only locals know about. A professional guide or captain will lead the way, providing expert knowledge on local sh species, seasonal patterns, and specialized techniques. For anglers who love the thrill of landing big sh or are eager to explore new waters, this experience can be transformative.
Fishing charters also provide top-of-theline equipment and tackle, making it easy for anglers to focus on catching sh rather than gathering gear. Guides are well-versed in local regulations, making it a hassle-free experience without the worries of permits and licensing.
Whether the angler in your life is a seasoned pro or just starting out, a shing charter can be tailored to any skill level. It’s a personalized gi! that brings both relaxation and adventure, combining nature’s beauty with the excitement of a shing quest. is Christmas, give the gi! of a shing charter from one of our vetted Coastal Angler Magazine/ e Angler Magazine writers and you’ll be gi!ing an unforgettable experience every angler will cherish.
For more details, visit coastalanglermag. com or theanglermag.com and select the region where you’d like to sh, or you can easily nd a local captain’s contact info inside our print publication below their monthly shing forecast.
TRACY PATTERSON
PHOTOS COURTESY OF FIRED UP FISHING CHARTERS
Welcome To Welcome To
ALAB MA ALAB MA
A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE FOR ALL Disabled Outdoorsmen USA’s 2024 Old Drum Tournament
TBy Alona Thompson
he 2024 Old Drum Tournament, hosted by Disabled Outdoorsmen USA, was a remarkable event that created lasting memories and provided a transformative experience for all involved. Participants embarked on an unparalleled fishing adventure in the expansive Pamlico Sound, renowned for its elusive Old Drum.
We are thrilled to announce that Disabled Outdoorsmen Alabama was able to send two Alabama residents on this year’s trip, thanks to the generosity and support of Disabled Outdoorsmen USA. We are deeply grateful for this incredible opportunity.
One of the standout participants this year was Alabama angler Philip “Olen” Millican. Olen, from Irvington, AL, has a passion for the outdoors, with hunting and camping among his favorite activities. His journey with Disabled Outdoorsmen Alabama began when he and his father, Philip, attended the Alabama Head Injury Foundation camp at the University of South Alabama. It was there that the Recreation Therapy department introduced them to Disabled Outdoorsmen Alabama, for which we are forever grateful. When presented with the opportunity to participate in the North Carolina fishing tournament, Olen and his father were eager to join the adventure.
Olen was paired with Zachary Weis, who served both as the event coordinator and a guide. Despite the challenging weather conditions, the pair had an unforgettable experience. Olen caught a 48-inch bull drum early in the tournament, putting him in the lead for the first few days. Later in the week, he caught a 43-inch bull drum, further adding to his impressive catch. Both bull drums earned him North Carolina Saltwater Citations, an extraordinary accomplishment! Olen also landed multiple stingrays and bluefish throughout the event.
Reflecting on the experience, Olen said, “I really enjoyed getting to know the other participants, guides, and volunteers.” He also had the opportunity to test out his new adaptive fishing rod, called Rexfly, which was provided by his father. This trip marked Olen’s first time fishing since his accident nearly a year ago, and he has made incredible progress, thanks in no small part to his unwavering support system. We are so proud of his achievements and look
forward to watching him continue to excel in his recovery.
We are also honored to have had the support of several esteemed sponsors who helped make this trip possible, including UNREEL Charters NC, Marker 23 Inshore Adventures, Ravan Outfitters, NC Wildlife Resources Commission, First Glass & Boatworks, Delmar Charter, Carolina Traditions Guide Co., NC Marine Fisheries, Grady’s Buoy Guide Service, StW Charter Service, Salty Toad Fishing, Ryan Weston, and Casey Kociuba. A special thank you goes to our trip host, Zachary Weis, whose efforts were instrumental in bringing this incredible adventure to life.
The 2024 Old Drum Tournament was truly an unforgettable experience for everyone involved, and we cannot thank all of our sponsors, participants, guides, and volunteers enough. We are already looking forward to the 2025 Old Drum Tournament!
PHOTO CREDS: NATHANIEL MUHLEMAN
Baldwin County
Robertsdale Walmart
Momentum Marine & RV
Brunson’s Net & Supply
Academy- Foley Foley Walmart
Blue Water Marine Services
Paradise Marine Center
Saunders Yacht Works
Gulf Shores Walmart
Hooked Up Bait & Tackle
Lartiques Orginal Fresh Seafood
Grander Marine
Emerald Coast Marine
Sam’s Bait & Tackle
Grander Marine Wharf
Mobile County
Grand Bay Welcome Center
Kravers Seafood
Tackle This Shoot That Gunport Academy
Dauphin Island Welcome Center
Lost Bay Tackle & Guide Service
WHERE TO FIND ALABAMA
Baldwin Welcome Center
Bass Pro
Blue Gill Resturant
Oyster House Restaurant
R & R Seafood Restaurant
Safe Harbor Sportsman Marina
By: Jackie Howell
Hunting season is here, and after months of preparation, you’ve successfully harvested a deer. This is a thrilling moment for hunters, but it’s crucial to handle the meat properly to ensure its quality. A common myth is that soaking deer meat in cold water will remove blood and the gamey taste of the meat. This practice, often done inadvertently when meat is placed in a cooler of ice, can actually harm the quality of the meat.
Soaking deer meat can lead to leaching of juices and proteins, resulting in drier meat. The lean nature of deer leads to breakdown muscle fibers when soaked, leading to a soggy or mushy texture. Additionally, many believe the red liquid in meat is blood; however, it’s actually myoglobin, and it doesn’t need to be removed (think about the juices in steak).
Then what is the best way to transport and store deer meat from the field to processor? Keep it cold and dry. Using a rack in your cooler allows for proper drainage while keeping the meat cool, as ice can be placed on top without submerging the meat. For even better moisture and flavor, use a designated refrigerator to hang meat for dry aging, the same process you would use with beef.
The gamey taste some hunters want to eliminate stems from various factors, including the deer’s diet, activity level, and age. While acidic soaks (like vinegar) or brines can sometimes help, they may also dehydrate the meat if left too long. A simple and effective solution is using a marinade, such as Italian dressing, which contains slight acidity to help mitigate gamey flavors without compromising moisture. Proper handling and storage can make a significant difference in the enjoyment of your harvest.
Chevron- Dauphin Island
Ship & Shore
Alabama Aquarium
Jemison's Bait & Tackle
Greer's Market- Dauphin Island
Middle Bay Boat Co.
Recreational Sales & Service
Southern - Bama Bait & Tackle
Dog River Marina & Boat Works
DIP Seafood Mudbugs
Wigman's Ace Hardware
George's Water Sports
George's Water Sports
Academy- Festival Center
UJ Chevrolet A-1 Tire
Ford Lumber WayMakers Marine
EZN Detail & Storage
Scan the qr code your photos
DECEMBER CRAPPIE
By By Captain Jason Domangue, Owner, Delta Jig Co.
December crappie fishing can be a “tail” of two stories for us here in South Alabama. A lot of things will play in for a successful day on the water. We usually have mild days in the mid-60’s and nights in the low to mid40’s. You will be able to catch fish all day long depending on the tides when the days are mild. However, when temperatures dive further down after cold fronts, the second “tail” scenario allows you to sleep in and wait for the sun to come up. Crappie love to feel the sun on their back which makes them more active in the middle of the day. Don’t be surprised to catch fish 5’ deep in 15’ of water when the temperatures dip. During this
time of year slowing down your presentation can mean the difference between a hooked fish and a fish that is non-committal to your bait. Lethargic fish early in the day require a slower presentation that you can speed up later in the day when they are more active.
All presentations work but this time of year is a great time to try new techniques. When fishing a 15 to 17’ long rod, I usually start with an ATX 5/16 oz tungsten with a 1/32 Delta Jig Co. hair jig (locally found at Mt. Vernon Outdoors) for the business end. But use whatever bait you have confidence in. Casting, I’ll use 6’6” rod with 4lb test and usually start with a 1/16 oz jig, but if the fish aren’t responding, I’ll downsize to a 1/32 and a smaller profile. Also try a slip float in and around tops and brush piles.
December can be fun and a chance to either hunt in the morning and fish in the afternoon or vice versa. Just remember catching is fun for the moment, but memories last forever, so get the friends and family on the water and have fun making memories.
For more, check out Delta Jig Co. on Facebook.
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4:53
Adventure Adventure
Bluebird Behavior and Conservation: Unraveling the Secrets of SuccessNesting
By Jackie Howell
Bluebirds (Sialia spp.) play a crucial role in many ecosystems, including our coast and serve as an important model organism for evaluating the effects of human disturbance and success of conservation efforts. Dr. Jonathan Pérez, a faculty member in the Biology Department at the University of South Alabama (USA), manages a network of 93 nesting boxes stretching from the USA campus to the Mobile Botanical Gardens. This network is integral to ongoing research that tracks the reproductive success of bluebirds and evaluates how various factors impact their nesting behavior and timing.
Dr. Pérez, alongside a dedicated team of graduate and undergraduate students, monitors the nesting boxes to gather key data for several research projects. These studies focus on reproductive success, with an increasing emphasis on understanding how climate change might affect both reproductive timing and outcomes. Monitoring begins in February, when boxes are checked daily to track early signs of nesting—such as the presence of nesting materials, the completion of nests, egg counts, hatching success, fledgling survival, and the weight of chicks. Nestlings are also banded so they can be tracked in the future and small blood samples taken for genetic data (All banding and sampling is being conducted under a federally authorized Bid Banding Permit issued by the U.S. Geological Survey’s Bird Banding Lab and other state and federal permits).
Additionally, Dr. Pérez has collaborated with Dr. Sarah Knutie from the University of Connecticut on a nationwide study that examines the latitudinal effects of ectoparasites on bluebird populations by analyzing nest samples from the USA nesting sites.
For more information, visit https://www.southalabama.edu/colleges/artsandsci/biology/ or scan the qr code to the right.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
Katalina Cunningham
Katalina Cunningham, a graduate student in Biology at the University of South Alabama, is conducting her master’s thesis research on bluebird parental behavior, specifically how bluebirds determine and respond to threats to their nests. These threats can range from predators to other bird species that compete for nesting sites. Katalina’s work focuses on nest competition, investigating whether bluebirds can identify competing species and what cues they use to determine potential threats. suggest that bluebirds can distinguish between the two species and adjust behavior accordingly. Her study involves two other songbird species that share overlapping distributions with bluebirds: house sparrows and house finches. While finches do not pose a threat because they don’t use nesting boxes, house sparrows are known to compete aggressively for nest boxes, sometimes destroying eggs or driving off bluebird parents. To test how bluebirds react to these threats, Katalina uses models of both species placed on top of nesting boxes. Recorded songs of the birds are played, and the behavior of the bluebirds is closely observed. Preliminary findings suggest that bluebirds can distinguish between the two species and adjust behavior accordingly.
The next phase of research will explore the specific cues that trigger these behavioral responses. By switching the models and songs of the test species, she aims to determine whether sight, sound, or a combination of both is the key factor in the bluebird’s threat assessment.
2024 GAMEDAY
SCHEDULE
AUBURN TIGERS
OPPONENT:
VS Alabama A&M VS California VS New Mexico VS Arkansas VS Oklahoma AT Georgia AT Missouri AT Kentucky VS Vanderbilt
VS UL Monroe AT Texas A&M AT Alabama
RESULTS:
W 73-3
L 21-14
W 45-19
L 24-14
L 27-21
L 31-13
L 21-13
W 24-10
L 17-7
DATE:
SAT 11/16 SAT 11/23 SAT 11/30
ALABAMA CRIMSON TIDE
OPPONENT:
VS Western Kentucky
VS South Florida
AT Wisconsin VS Georgia
AT Vanderbilt VS South Carolina
AT Tennessee VS Missouri AT LSU
RESULTS:
W 63-0
W 42-16
W 42-10
W 41-34
L 40-35
W 27-25
L 24-17
W 34-0
W 42-13
VS Mercer AT Oklahoma VS Auburn SAT 11/16 SAT 11/23 SAT 11/30
SOUTH AL JAGUARS
OPPONENT:
VS North Texas AT Ohio VS Northwestern AT App. State AT LSU AT Arkansas State VS Troy VS ULM VS Georgia Southern
DATE: AT Louisiana AT Southern Miss. VS Texas State
RESULTS:
L 52-38 L 27-20
W 87-10
W 48-14
L 42-10 L 18-16
W 25-9 W 46-17
L 34-30
DATE:
SAT 11/16 SAT 11/23 FRI 11/29
THE BEAN POLE: AMiniRodforBigAdventures
Who doesn’t love a good challenge? !at’s what draws so many anglers to light tackle for catching big sh. Mini rod shing takes it up a notch, turning the thrill of landing a monster into an even more rewarding experience. Mini-rod shing is all about having fun and enjoying the thrill of the catch!
At just 33 inches total, the Bean Pole isn’t just a mini in size, it’s the real deal in the world of shing. With a new edition released every year with cool colors and features, this little rod combines style, functionality, and fun all in one sleek package.
!e beauty of the Bean Pole is in its convenience. Slip it into your car, backpack, or even your kayak, and you’re ready to chase sh wherever the road takes you. Perfect for spontaneous road trips or shing in those hard-to-reach spots, this mini rod is your trusty sidekick for any adventure. While there are other “mini” rods on the market, ones over 36 inches fall more into the slow-pitch jigging category and are not considered real mini rods. !e Bean Pole, on the other hand, is a true mini rod at 33 inches. It’s designed for nimble casting and quick action, making it perfect for those who want a genuine mini experience without the extra length. Made from pure carbon ber, the Bean Pole is as lightweight as it is strong.
Don’t let its size fool you; this rod packs a punch! It’s designed to tackle everything from giant bull sharks to he y goliath groupers and, yes, it’s just as e ective at reeling in smaller species like snook and yellowtail snapper, giving it a ton of versatility!
e Bean Pole retails for $65 and is available at beansport shing.com.
SUZUKI MARINE’S DF2.5: Small in size but big in features. Weighing just 30 pounds, the portable and versatile DF 2.5HP outboard motor is the lightest Suzuki Marine USA 4-stroke motor ever built. This smooth, quiet engine is water-cooled for increased dependability, features a digital CDI, and its anti corrosion system ensures the aluminum propeller stays durable in marine conditions.
TIS THE SEASON TO BE JOLLY… FA LA LA LA LA
Christmas week, in my opinion, is the peak of bottom shing season, and there are plenty of reasons why. One of the biggest factors is the congregation of bait schools, like cigar minnows and sardines, which are some of the best baits available. Other reasons include the spawning aggregations and the cooler water temperatures. Speaking of bait, grouper (and American red snapper) can’t resist a few others if presented right: pin sh, sailor’s choice, and even small beeliners and other little snappers. !ese baits are so tempting because larger sh like grouper and snapper see them as egg-eaters. !ey devour them not only as a food source but also to protect their future o spring from these egg thieves. If you present these baits correctly—and avoid using bulky tackle— they’re simply too enticing to resist.
intelligent. Not all grouper species are equal in terms of smarts: red grouper are pretty naive, scamps are sharper, and gags are the brightest. !ey don’t become males, or black bellies, by being careless. Like other animals, sh learn to avoid obvious traps. !ey recognize mono, threeway swivels, heavy bank sinkers clanking on the bottom, and so on. It’s time to step up your game and target their instincts.
Personally, I use my weight as a “decoy,” making it resemble a crab or squid. !is setup involves a 4-foot piece of oro, a small 130-pound Spro swivel, and 50-pound braided line. I also color the rst 5 or 6 feet of high-vis (yellow) braid red with a Sharpie. (See my video on YouTube for a demo.) All these details matter for the overall presentation. !e
Let’s talk tackle. Forget mono lament altogether! I’ve spent a lot of time observing my tackle underwater, and mono is much more visible than uorocarbon. Compared to mono, oro is nearly invisible, which makes a di erence. Next, think carefully about the weight and terminal tackle you use to get bait to the bottom. While three-way rigs were a classic for years and will still catch younger (female) grouper, it’s a di erent story when they grow up. Once female grouper mature, they undergo a transformation and become males. When these gag grouper turn male, they also reach a size where we call them “black bellies.” !ese male grouper—especially black bellies—are
“Decoy Jig” is like psychological warfare; it taps into the sh’s hardwired drive to attack struggling or injured prey. !e Crab Decoy Jig, for example, looks like a crab holding on to a struggling snapper. To a wary grouper or big snapper, that’s an irresistible “Happy Meal.” I came up with the Crab Decoy Jig a er gutting thousands of grouper and realizing that their diet mostly consists of small red and reddish-brown crabs, tiny snappers, cigar minnows and sardines.
!e gag grouper and American red snapper populations are stronger than they’ve been in years—just ask any diver! But to catch them consistently, you need to improve your presentation. If you’re not catching gags and scamps with your old “chicken rig,” it doesn’t mean there aren’t any grouper around. !ey’re just not falling for poorly presented bait.
For a closer look at my setup, visit my YouTube channel.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
See more from Tim Barefoot at www.barefootcatsandtackle.com and on YouTube @timbarefoot5698.
Tim Barefoot
ANGLERS LAND NEW IGFA WORLD RECORDS
The International Game Fish Association (IGFA) tracks record sh catches around the globe. Here are a few highlights from their newly approved world records.
To see all newly approved IGFA world records go to igfa.org.
Shapiro’s Red Drum
On July 8, 2024, Shawn Shapiro was shing the Chesapeake Bay out of Norfolk, VA, when he landed this massive 45.7-inch red drum. Shawn was shing with a live croaker aboard his father’s boat “Sea Mes” when this record red sh struck. With this sh Shawn has set the IGFA All-Tackle Length Junior World Record for the species. A er recording the length and snapping a few photos, he was able to release the sh safely.
Martin’s
Brown Trout
On May 17, 2024, Vicki Martin landed a stunning 4-pound brown trout while shing the White River in Arkansas. !is catch has earned Vicki the IGFA Women’s 2 lb. Line Class World Record for the species. With the help of guide Craig Yowell, Vicki landed the record trout a er a six-minute ght.
Fox’s Northern Pike
On June 29, 2024, Peter Fox was shing out of Brabant Lodge in Northwest Territories, Canada when he landed this impressive northern pike. Peter was using a prop y when the pike struck and was able to boat the sh a er an intense ght. !e sh measured 43.3 inches, earning Peter the IGFA All-Tackle Length Fly World Record for the species.
Gredysa’s Summer Flounder
On May 12, 2024, Jan Gredysa was Shinnecock, NY, when he landed this 22.4-inch summer ounder. With this has set the IGFA All-Tackle Length Junior World Record for the species. Jan was casting a Fin-S lure when this record ounder struck and was able to land the sh a minute ght.
Te Gold Rush of 2024
ImpossiblePriceWas $299, Now
Glimmering 24k gold in a tungsten setting
Ah, my dear compatriots, allow me to share a tale of intrigue and fortune. Picture this: a venture into the heart of a South American goldmine, where the earth yields its treasures to the daring and the cunning. With every step as we follow Diego, our mining master, the air thickens with anticipation, the scent of wealth mingling with the thrill of the unknown.
Tere, amidst the darkness, lies the prize we seek — veins of gold, glimmering like stars in the night sky.
Now picture this: a ring, not just any ring, mind you, but a masterpiece crafted to adorn the fingers of the discerning. Crafted with meticulous care, each piece encasing ribbons of 24 karat gold in a Tungsten setting, whispering tales of luxury and prestige.
“Been
Meticulously crafted and amazingly comfortable, you will not find anything like this in a jewelry store. As gold prices skyrocket, we have been able to craft this and hold the price under $100 making it exclusively available with only 495 reserved for this ad. And of course we offer a 30 day no questions asked guarantee.
Yanacocha Gold Mine, located near Lima, Peru, is the largest gold mine in South America and the fourth largest in the world.
SOLD OUT IN HOURS NOW BACK IN STOCK
A symbol of power and sophistication. Tis isn’t just a ring, it’s a statement. On any adventure, let this ring be your companion, a silent witness to your every triumph. Ahhh… the rush of a gold rush.
Jewelry Specifcations:
• 24k gold embedded in black-finished tungsten
• Whole Size 8 -14
Men’s Gold Rush Ring
$299 $99* + S&P Save $200
*You must use Insider Offer Code GRR161-01 to get this price.
