navigating peace of mind
Unpredictable waters
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.
Navigational fexibility
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.
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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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!
THE FASCINATING JOURNEY OF TARPON MIGRATION
By Dr. Benjamin Cole
Tarpon (Megalops atlanticus), known as “silver kings,” are renowned for their acrobatic leaps and strength, making them a top target for anglers. However, their fascinating migration patterns also play a crucial role in maintaining marine ecosystems.
Tarpon migration is largely driven by the need for feeding and reproduction. Tese highly
migratory fsh can travel thousands of miles, infuenced by water temperature, food availability, and spawning needs. Preferring temperatures above 72°F (22°C), tarpon move south during colder months, seeking warmer waters.
the U.S. Atlantic coast, they travel from Virginia to Florida and the Caribbean, while in the Gulf, they move from Texas and Louisiana to Mexico. Teir northward migration begins in late spring, driven by rising temperatures and abundant food. By summer, tarpon reach as far as Virginia, signaling the start of fshing season. As fall sets in, they return south to warmer wintering grounds.
A key driver of tarpon migration is spawning, typically occurring between May and September in ofshore areas with strong currents. Afer spawning, larvae are carried into estuarine environments like mangroves and marshes, crucial nurseries for juvenile tarpon. Tese habitats are essential for the species’ survival, but environmental degradation threatens their health.
While tarpon are primarily a catch-andrelease species, improper handling during fshing can lead to mortality. Conservation eforts, including safe fshing practices and habitat protection, are essential for sustaining tarpon populations. Organizations like the Bonefsh & Tarpon Trust work to monitor migration, protect critical habitats, and promote responsible fshing.
Found in the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico, tarpon migration varies by region. Along
Tarpon migration is a remarkable journey, driven by the search for favorable conditions. By protecting these iconic fsh and their habitats, we can ensure their survival and preserve their role in marine ecosystems for future generations.
RIG IT RIGHT FOR THE OPTIMUM BITE
Capt. Russ Walker
If a fsh can see the bait, they’ll hit it much faster than if they must search through grass or mud. Tat’s why I rig to suspend the bait, keeping it above the bottom where fsh can easily spot it. Grass fats are incredibly productive fshing grounds, and targeting the edges where the fat drops of into deeper water is the key to catching bigger fsh.
In around fve to six feet of water, grass growth stops, forming a natural erosional edge where fsh like trout, cobia, tarpon, and mackerel hunt. Tese edges act like a “superhighway” for predatory fsh. While smaller fsh are found on the fat, the big ones hang near the edge, diving into the deeper channel when necessary.
Te best tool for this fshing method is a fat-topped popping cork. Te cork keeps the bait suspended at the desired depth and makes a popping sound when tugged, drawing fsh to the noise. Tis is especially useful for beginners, as it’s an easy technique that produces great results. With just a few pops, the live shrimp below the cork will jump into plain sight, attracting the fsh.
As a charter captain, I’ve found this method efective for anglers of all experience levels. It’s not uncommon to catch 80 to 100 fsh during a four-hour trip using this rig. It works equally well ofshore near wrecks, suspending bait for species like permit.
I make my own 200 lb. rated, fat-topped popping bobbers, stronger and shorter than store-bought versions. Tey’re perfect for fshing
everything from trout to tarpon, with only the hook size and leader changing. Te leader length is always four and one half feet, and the magic depth on the grass-fat edge is fve feet.
Typically, I use a 3/0 Mustad Wide Gap Hook with a 1/4 oz. egg sinker and a 30 lb. fuorocarbon leader. Tis rig works wonders for trout, pompano, mackerel, snook, redfsh, and ladyfsh.
So, give it a try! Pop the cork a few times, remove the slack, and hang on. When the bobber disappears, just “yank it and crank it.” You’ll see your catch increase by at least 40 percent. Fish On!
Capt. Russ Walker is a USCG Masters licensed fshing guide and owner of Tide Walker Charters out of Cape Coral, FL. www.tidewalkercharters.com
YOUTH BIG BUCK YOUTH BIG BUCK
Nov. 16, 2024 Nov. 16, 2024
Free t-shirt with entry!
UNFORGETTABLE ADVENTURES
Disabled Outdoorsmen USA’s 2024 Old Drum Tournament Celebrates Passion and Community
By Alona Thompson
The 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. Our participants will embark on an unparalleled fishing adventure on the expansive Pamlico Sound, renowned for its elusive Old Drum.
We are SO excited to announce that Disabled Outdoorsmen Alabama was able to bring two Alabama residents on this year’s trip with all the appreciation to Disabled Outdoorsmen USA for making this possible!
We would like to highlight one of our Alabama anglers, Jen Pahl, and her service dog Monster. Jen is from the Huntsville area and has a deeply rooted passion for the outdoors. Jen and Monster are very involved in the veteran community as well as Jen served in the U.S. Coast Guard. The pair volunteer with SARTEC K9 and plan on achieving the certification of a Human Remains Detection Team in 2025. Also involved with the Rescue Squad where they run communications during training exercises, flanking other dog teams and their handlers, and even hiding for the live find K9s. Jen states, “When not on the water or working with Monster, I want to be on the mountain somewhere. I began snowboarding when I was 12, but due to several Traumatic Brain Injuries I had to put my board down. That was until March of 2023 when I attended the National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic for the first time! I have now boarded at 3 different resorts in Colorado and plan to add some more mountains and states this upcoming year!”. We believe anything is possible.
Back in April, Jen and the DOAL president, Alona Thompson, ran into each other at the 2024 NDVWSC in Snowmass, CO and immediately made a connection through a passion for the outdoors. The two continued to stay in touch and when this amazing opportunity came available Alona contacted Jen who immediately said, “Of course, I’m in!”. Jen was paired with Justin
Manners with Salty Toad Fishing and the pair were able to have an incredible time! Jen was able to catch 2 Puppy Drum, 1 Bull Drum, 5 Chopper Bluefish, 1 Croaker, 3 Atlantic Stingrays, and 1 Speckled Trout.
We are honored to have the support of several esteemed sponsors for this trip, 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 have been instrumental in bringing this incredible adventure to life.
This year’s Old Drum Tournament was an unforgettable experience for all involved and we cannot thank everyone enough. We look forward to the 2025 Old Drum Tournament!
PHOTO CREDS: NATHANIEL MUHLEMAN
Baldwin County
Robertsdale Walmart
Momentum Marine & RV
Brunson’s Net & Supply
Foley Walmart
Academy- Foley
Blue Water Marine Services
Paradise Marine Center
Saunders Yacht Works
Gulf Shores Walmart
Hooked Up Bait & Tackle
Lartiques Orginal Fresh Seafood
Lost Bay Tackle & Guide Service
Grander Marine
Emerald Coast Marine
Sam’s Bait & Tackle
Grander Marine Wharf
Baldwin Welcome Center
Bass Pro
Blue Gill Resturant
Oyster House Restaurant
R & R Seafood Restaurant
Safe Harbor Sportsman Marina
Mobile County
Grand Bay Welcome Center
Kravers Seafood
Tackle This Shoot That Gunport Academy
Dauphin Island Welcome Center
WHERE TO FIND
ALABAMA
By: Jackie Howell
The Rising Outdoor Initiative (ROI) is a nonprofit dedicated to empowering future generations through hands-on outdoor experiences in hunting and fishing. Their mission is to connect individuals with nature while teaching essential techniques, modeling sportsmanship, and educating participants on the vital conservation role of responsible hunting and fishing.
Founded by Bradley Howell, an avid outdoorsman, and his wife Jackie, a science educator, ROI grew from Bradley’s passion for the outdoors and his joy in witnessing first-time hunters’ excitement when they harvest their first animal—be it deer, hog, turkey, or fish. Their approach is unique: the only requirement for consideration is a demonstrated need, ensuring that everyone—whether facing financial challenges, physical disabilities, or simply seeking mentorship—has an opportunity to participate.
Through guided experiences, ROI fosters a love for nature while equipping participants with knowledge about wildlife, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. The founders and board members take pride in creating lasting memories and instilling a sense of responsibility toward the environment in each participant.
By prioritizing inclusivity and education, ROI not only creates memorable experiences but also nurtures a new generation of informed and engaged stewards of nature.
For more information, visit www.risingoutdoorinitiative.org or follow us on Facebook.
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
NOVEMBER CRAPPIE
By By Captain Jason Domangue, Owner, Delta Jig Co.
With shorter days and cooler mornings in the month of November, anglers should be treated with eager fish that are willing to bite.
On my most recent trip crappie fishing with a friend on the Tombigbee River, we found the fish are on the move. We found fish in their normal places such as brush piles and tree tops, and we also found fish actively feeding on schools of shad. As water temperatures begin to fall, bigger crappie will start stacking up on structure as well as schooling in open water. Fall and winter fishing opens the door for all styles of fishing. Whether, spider rigging, single pole fishing tops, or live scoping open water fish, this is a fantastic time of year to be on the water.
Fall and winter crappie will eat a variety of baits this time of year. Everything from minnows to jigs will entice a bite from these active fish. During the Tombigbee trip we were using Delta Jig Co. hair jigs in a 1/32 and 1/16 size casting to the actively feeding fish with either a 7’ or 9’ rod. When fishing brush, we were using 15’ rods with 5/16 ATX tungsten weight and a 1/32 Delta Jig Co. hair jig. Primary colors that produced fish were “Green Ghost”, “Jaybird”, and “Showgirl”. Everything we used can be found at Mt. Vernon Outdoors in Mt. Vernon, AL.
So remember that November isn’t just football and deer hunting, but it is also a great time to get the family and kids on the water for some fun catching these great tasting fish.
For more, check out Delta Jig Co. on Facebook.
Bon Secour, Bon Secour River, AL - Nov 2024
R&R SEAFOOD UNVEILS NEW MENU ITEM
WINNING DISHES FROM KITCHEN COMPETITION
In a recent exciting development at R&R Seafood, the restaurant hosted an internal kitchen contest that has resulted in a brand-new entrée being added to its menu. The contest invited six teams of kitchen staff to create innovative dishes, and after much deliberation, the judges chose a standout winner.
The winning dish, created by Danielle Cumbus, Greg Powell, and Michael Cobb, is a snapper entrée topped with a flavorful crawfish Bienville sauce. This delectable main course is paired with stewed squash and a crabcake, both drizzled with more of the rich, creamy Bienville sauce. The dish’s combination of fresh seafood and savory sauce makes it a welcome addition to the restaurant’s already impressive lineup of seafood offerings.
But that’s not all. The meal can be enjoyed alongside other thoughtfully chosen items, including the Oyster Bienville appetizer and a seasonal dessert: the Chunky Monkey bread pudding. The dessert has become a favorite during the fall, with its blend of warm, comforting flavors.
The competition saw six teams vying for the top spot, and it wasn’t an easy decision for the judges. Each team delivered creative, wellcrafted dishes, making it a close race. Ultimately, the snapper and crawfish Bienville dish stood out for its depth of flavor and presentation.
R&R Seafood’s latest addition reflects the creativity and skill of its kitchen staff, who continually push the envelope in seafood preparation. Diners can now taste the winning dish for themselves and experience the culinary talent that R&R Seafood has to offer.
Be sure to check out this new entrée next time you visit!
TURNING THE TIDE: INNOVATIVE COASTAL RESTORATION WITH GLASS SAND
By Jackie Howell
Significant strides in coastal restoration are underway along the Gulf Coast, driven by collaboration between local universities and their students. Dr. Jeremiah Henning, an Assistant Professor of Biology at the University of South Alabama, is partnering with Tulane University’s ReCoast Project and Glass Half Full to develop innovative strategies for restoring dunes and maintaining healthy ecosystems.
Glass Half Full, founded by Tulane graduates, repurposes glass bottles into sand and gravel, providing a sustainable alternative for dune reconstruction. Traditional restoration methods often rely on dredging sand from the ocean, which can disrupt local ecosystems and incur high monetary and environmental costs, says Dr. Henning. In contrast, using glass sand minimizes these drawbacks, while also reducing the amount of glass entering landfills.
Dr. Henning’s lab currently has three honors students and seven undergraduates who are investigating the viability of glass sand substrates for various plant and animal species. Research is being conducted on the University of South Alabama campus, with plans to establish a glass sand dune on Dauphin Island. This field research will enable Dr. Henning and his team to assess the effectiveness of glass sand substrates for coastal reconstruction in real-world conditions.
While lab studies have used both sterilized and inoculated sand substrates, field research is essential for understanding the survival and dynamics of entire communities. Many factors—such as interactions among plants, animals, fungi, and microbes—that influence ecosystem health cannot be replicated in a laboratory setting.
Learn more about Dr. Henning’s research, visit www.jeremiahahenning.com
Learn more about the ReCoast Project, visit recycleforthecoast.org
Learn more about Glass Half Full, visit glasshalffull.co
STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS
Emily Parrish
Biology Honors student Emily Parrish is investigating the viability of recycled glass sand from Glass Half Full and ReCoast, as a potential sediment for coastal restoration. Atlantic Ghost Crabs (Ocypode quadrata) are good indicators of ecosystem health; they are being used to gauge how dune ecosystems maybe impacted by the recycled sand by assessing its ability to survive and thrive in glass dune substrates by measuring survivability, growth, and stress hormone production. Preliminary data indicates that there has been no negative effect on the crabs, and further collaborations will clarify the viability of glass sands all dune taxa.
Gracie Hankins
Biology Honors student Gracie Hankins is examining the effects glass sand, salt water, drought and nutrient addition on Heterotheca subaxillaris, a prominent Gulf Coast dune species. She treated 180 seedlings with different stressors and monitored their survival. The preliminary data suggests that plants generally survive better in their native sand substrates compared to the glass sand. However, the growth results from the control watering group for both the live (normal) sand and glass sand have similar outcomes, which is promising.
Kristen Allen
Biology Honors student Kristen Allen is exploring germination rates in native dune taxa using glass sand, alongside this experiment she is also examining the inoculation of native microbial communities to see how these species are impacted. Her goal is to test the efficacy of the glass sand as a substrate to restore coastal sand dunes, and to understand if glass sand efficacy could be improved by the inoculation of native microbial communities. Current results indicate that there is no significant difference in germination rates between glass and sand substrates.
SCHEDULE 2024 GAMEDAY
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
DATE:
SAT 10/19 SAT 10/26 SAT 11/9 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
RESULTS:
W 63-0
W 42-16
W 42-10
W 41-34
L 40-35 W 27-25
DATE:
AT Tennessee VS Missouri AT LSU VS Mercer AT Oklahoma VS Auburn SAT 10/19 SAT 10/26 SAT 11/9 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 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
DATE:
SAT 10/26 SAT 11/2 SAT 11/16 SAT 11/23 FRI 11/29
FOR THE LADIES
WHY COSTA RICA IS A TOP DESTINATION FOR LADY ANGLERS
TRACY PATTERSON
Costa Rica is a renowned destination for anglers, ofering calm seas, ideal fshing conditions, and worldclass fshing. It is especially popular among female anglers due to its safety, tournaments, and supportive crews, making it an unforgettable experience.
If you’re seeking high odds of catching billfsh, Costa Rica is the place to be. On a full day ofshore, it’s common to get multiple strikes. Te fat, calm seas make it enjoyable for anglers of all levels, letting you focus on reeling in catches rather than battling rough waters.
Costa Rica hosts two ultra prestigious women-only tournaments: the Ladies Angler Tournament at Los Suenos Resort and Marina, and the Pescadora Billfsh Championship at Marina Pez Vela. Both tournaments create a supportive
yet competitive environment for anglers of all skill levels. Te Pescadora Championship is
particularly unique, ofering two Female Angler of the Year awards based on diferent fshing techniques. It encourages women to challenge themselves and grow in the sport.
Costa Rica is ranked #1 in Central America for safety, and recent laws further protect women from harassment. Female anglers can feel comfortable walking around resorts and marinas. Charter feets also adhere to strict safety regulations, ensuring peace of mind while on the water.
Whether you’re staying at a boutique hotel or a private home, Costa Rica ofers a range of accommodations for groups of all sizes. Many resorts are conveniently located near marinas, allowing easy access to fshing trips and other adventures.
Costa Rica is home to many women who support the lady angler movement. Te captains and crews are eager to teach beginners, helping them hook their frst billfsh or refne their skills. With women accounting for a growing percentage of anglers, Costa Rica ofers a welcoming and empowering environment for female anglers.
Whether you’re an experienced angler or a frst-timer, Costa Rica ofers an unbeatable fshing experience. Its exceptional conditions, tournaments, safety, and camaraderie make it the top destination for lady anglers.
Cast Lures in a Mitzi Tournament 17
FALL=FLOUNDER
IBy Capt. Michael Okruhlik
t’s that thrilling time of the year, founder time! Te fall migration, reaching its peak in November along the Gulf Coast, promises an exciting infux of founder to their spawning grounds. Louisiana, following Texas, has also implemented a closed season during this peak run. But remember, the inability to keep fatties during this time doesn’t dampen the thrill of catching them.
Flounder will be migrating into the Gulf during this time, so the apparent ambush areas will be around passes that lead to the Gulf. Te founder will position themselves in diferent regions based on the tide level and current strength. In addition to using their burying-in-the-sand ambush technique, they also utilize structure in several ways.
First, any object that protrudes above the bottom is a great ambush point. Tis ofers a current break for forage fsh to gather directly above a buried founder, making for an easy meal. Objects such as bulkheads are also great ambush points. Flounder like to position themselves against the solid barrier and I think this can be for two separate reasons depending on what other factors are at play. As mentioned above, it could be a current break, especially if the bulkhead has a corrugated shape. When a founder settles against a bulkhead, its prey has less direction in which it can fee, allowing the founder greater odds of capturing it. When targeting founder, never pass up a bulkhead.
Secondly, founder can be caught using a variety of lures and live bait, especially if you keep it in contact with the bottom to increase your chances of a strike. When it comes to live bait, a frisky mullet is your best bet for landing a larger founder. If you’re aiming for a trophy, this is the way to go. Personally, I prefer fshing with lures, particularly the paddle tail style. Jerk-style sof plastics and bucktails can also be efective when worked in the same manner.
If I had to pick a tide to maximize my time on the water, I would choose a medium fow outgoing. Although there are no set rules that fsh always follow, I feel the founder feed more on their way out to the gulf, utilizing
the current to ease their journey. Contrary to the incoming tide, they bury themselves rather than fght against the current.
Don’t let the closed season discourage you from targeting founder during this migration; it will have its advantages. Going forward we will undoubtedly have a larger founder population, but the instant gratifcation will be a lot less trafc in our favorite founder spot! I will use the closed season to target a new personal best this season, as should you.
Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures® and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.
PHOTO COURTESY
OTim Barefoot
f course, October is when it all starts, but if you like to bottom fsh, then November is the month the turbo kicks in, leading to the crescendo of the year… December. I’ve always said the week of Christmas is the apex of the grouper fshing calendar, and I’ll stand by that statement now. Tis is when larger (male) gags move inshore to establish their territory on inshore ledges, wrecks, and live bottom, much like buck deer making scrapes and rubs to mark their territory. Tese males now wait for the smaller females to show up in numbers to spawn, and the bite traditionally goes of the charts.
A small piece of hard bottom can attract large numbers of fsh if it contains the right ingredients. First and foremost, you need to locate their food. Go to the places that have traditionally held the bait—cigar minnows, sardines, beeliners, etc. “Find the bait, fnd the fsh” has been my thought process for years. Tese fsh won’t show up to a party without food—common sense. You can anchor up on a stack of bait without seeing a big mark of fsh, but afer a few bites, you’ll notice the screen light up with more and more fsh showing up.
Anchoring up is key to shallow water grouper fshing. Te sound of fsh feeding travels great distances and doesn’t go unnoticed. Once an area is fred up, constant bites supercharge the atmosphere down there. If you’re drifing, you won’t get a specifc area fred up; you’ll only go back where you got bites. But if you anchor, the fsh come to you to join in. Tis draws the alpha predators—big sharks. Yes, you’ll lose some fsh and tackle to these bruisers, but enjoy the ride while it lasts. When sharks show up, it’s time to move on to another ledge or further down the same one.
Back to noise... Keep in mind that while we hear very little, fsh hear everything. Sound travels far underwater, and everything you do on deck—slamming cooler lids, dropping hard objects, loud music, yelling—is heard by the fsh. It could be the diference between catching smaller cows or big bulls. Large male groupers didn’t get old by being dumb. You don’t kill big bucks by being noisy, so treat your fshing with the same respect.
Te folks that target grouper come home with grouper. Te ones who go “bottom fshing” with cut bait and chicken rigs come home with “bottom fsh.” As Franklin Covey said, “begin with the end in mind.” If you’re targeting grouper, think and act like it. Put baits on the bottom that avoid trash bites. Spend time jigging up some of that “trash” and drop them back down on a Decoy Jig for optimal results. Watch some of my videos on YouTube (Tim Barefoot) for examples of what I’m saying.
For more information, visit barefootcatsandtackle.com.
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