Coastal Angler Magazine | November 2024 | Boston Edition
EDITION
It wasn’t hard, on a recent gray morning along the edge of Quincy Harbor, to imagine what the young man might be thinking. Tall, straight-backed, round cap upon his head, the collar of his peacoat turned up against the wind, hands thrust into pockets, his eyes fixed on the far blue Atlantic horizon. Forged by experience, he now contemplates w hat lies ahead.
Continued on boston page 1
George K. Regan, Jr. Publisher Boston Edition
Julie Kahn Executive Vice President/ Strategy, Sports & Media
navigating peace of mind
Unpredictable waters
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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
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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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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
George K. Regan, Jr. Publisher Boston Edition
Forever Looking to the Sea, and the Sacrifices that Awaited
Iconic Lone Sailor Statue in Quincy – One of Just 19 in the World -- Honors US Navy Vets Who Fought for Freedom
It wasn’t hard, on a recent gray morning along t he edge of Quincy Harbor, to imagine what the young man might be thinking. Tall, straightbacked, round cap upon his head, the collar of his peacoat turned up against the wind, hands thrust into pockets, his eyes fixed on the far blue Atlantic horizon. Forged by experience, he now contemplates what lies ahead.
About 25 years old, his face belies a maturity above and beyond. His stance suggests a confidence earned through duty and sacrifice, his serious demeanor, a readiness for whatever his future service
brings. A senior second class petty officer in the United States Navy, he has already lived, and will live again, the life of “haze gray and underway” -- the traditional s aying within the service branch that means s ailing aboard surface warships to fulfill a mission at sea, far from the s afety of a shore post.
His next stop may be aboard a destroyer in the English Channel, providing fire support for the first waves into Normandy – perhaps a ship built right here on this piece of land where he now stands. Or he may be on the deck of a carrier in the Pacific, directing dive bomber
pilots launching to hunt a Japanese battle group. Years later, having left his hometown upon hearing a new generation’s call to duty, he may be stationed on a cruiser deterring the aggression of a Cold War enemy. Or even, in more recent times, sailing for the Persian Gulf, a projection of power in the war on terrorism.
His next stop has been all of these things.
He is the Lone Sailor, a tribute to the men and women who have served or are serving as part of the United States Navy’s mission to protect f reedom, fight tyranny, and ensure the safety of the world’s oceans. And on the humid morning of Friday, August 9, on the Boardwalk off Victory Road in Quincy’s Marina Bay neighborhood, he was welcomed to his newest home port by dozens of active duty and retired veterans, civic leaders, and local residents. Seven feet t all, cast from bronze, the Lone Sailor Statue
– brought here by the United States Navy Memorial Foundation – is t he centerpiece of the city’s new Navy Park at Squantum.
“He has done it all,” the US Navy Memorial states about the Lone Sailor. “Fired weapons in war, provided humanitarian assistance in far-away lands, been attacked by the enemy and defended our freedom. He has made liberty calls in great cities and tiny villages where he was a tourist, ambassador, adventurer, friend and missionary to those less fortunate. His shipmates remember him w ith pride and look up to him with respect.”
Julie Kahn President, Regan Marketing & Media
Quincy’s Lone Sailor is the 19th such statue dedicated by the US Navy Memorial in locations around the world. His brother sailors stand sentry in such spots as the Navy Memorial in Washington, D.C.; the World War Two Valor in the Pacific Monument at Pearl Harbor, where he greets visitors on their way to the USS Arizona Memorial; and gazing out to the ocean, as a ll sailors must, from a promontory over Utah Beach on the Normandy coast, one of the places where the liberators of Europe landed 80 years ago. The Navy Park at Squantum is the first New England location to host the Lone Sailor. The location -- the former site of the Victory Destroyer Plant shipyard
Staff, added.
The Navy Park at Squantum will also become home to the bell from the third USS Quincy, a heavy cruiser built at the Fore River Shipyard and given its name after the second Quincy was destroyed in the Battle of Savo Island in the Guadalcanal campaign, with t he loss of 370 sailors, on August 9, 1942.
and Naval Air Station Squantum, where fighter pilots were trained, and not far from the former Fore River Shipyard -- is fitting.
“Today at this historic site we celebrate Quincy’s vital contributions to shipbuilding and to the training of Naval aviators,” United States Marine Corps General (ret.)
Joseph Dunford, who emceed the memorial event, s aid.
“But most importantly we celebrate the long line of Quincy natives who answered the call to serve, w hether as a shipbuilder or as a sailor in uniform,” General Dunford, a Quincy native himself who went on to serve as Commandant of the Marine Corps and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of
Recalling that sinking that occurred 82 years, to the day, before the Quincy dedication, Father David Campo, a L ieutenant Junior Grade and US Navy Chaplain, spoke of the nature of courage while remembering the loss of the USS Q uincy during his opening prayer.
“ ‘Courage,’ in the words
of US Navy Chaplain Joseph Conway, two years l ater, ‘is fear having said its prayers,’ ” Father Campo, also a Quincy native, recalled. “Taking his own medicine, after offering Mass for his Marines r ight before invading Guam, Chaplain Conway was killed in action with the Marines in his assault craft. He was found with his chalice box tightly gripped to his chest. We could all keep God close to our chest now days.
“On this day we have the solemn dedication of the Lone Sailor as a reminder of the sacrifices of all Navy personnel, f rom those about the USS Quincy 82 years ago today, of what tremendous bravery God has given to those putting everything on the line. Let us also ask God to continue to raise
(Continued from Page 2)
up brave men and women to defend us, since freedom is never truly free.”
Quincy Mayor Thomas Koch noted his city’s revered military history, including the shipyards, the air station, and the numerous Army and Navy commanders who hailed from the city.
“It is our job to be the preservationist, the conservationist, to tell those stories to future generations,” Mayor Koch said. “And this will be forever here as a living outdoor museum.”
Among the many notable veterans from Quincy honored at the event were Vice Admiral (ret.) Colin Kilrain and Rear Admiral (ret.) Stephen T. Keith. Four other US Navy admirals were honored posthumously: Vice Admiral John Ready, Rear Admiral Bartholomew W. Hogan, Rear Admiral Giles C. Stedman, and Rear Admiral Forrest B. Royal. All are memorialized in carved stone plaques erected in the Navy Park.
Honored, also, were retired naval aviator and Vietnam POW Richard Stratton; and, in memoriam, former Quincy Sun Editor Henry Bosworth, a US Navy World War II veteran, and Charles Francis Adams III, who served as Secretary of the Navy under President Herbert Hoover.
Also recognized, and in attendance, were two centenarians: former Massachusetts Lieutenant Governor and Attorney General Francis X. Bellotti, 101 years old, who served during World War Two in the Navy’s elite amphibious unit that was the precursor of today’s SEALs, and Mildred “Millie” Cox, 100, one of the first women to join the Marine Corps who later worked for Quincy Public Schools and the city’s Veterans Services while raising a family in the city.
“When I was a young Marine, I never dreamed that I would be standing
here 80 years later on this hallowed ground in the company of heroes,” Mrs. Cox said. “This distinction today has to be the highlight of my very long life I accept it gladly for all women warriors past and present. We were always capable. Someone just had to recognize that.”
Recalling the years she and her husband spent raising six sons and a daughter in Quincy, Mrs. Cox remembered “when the neighborhood kids wanted to rag on my kids, they’d say, ‘Your mother wears combat boots!’ And my kids would say, ‘You’re damn tootin’!”
Other speakers included Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, who remembered the service of her father, a 22-year Navy veteran, and US Congressman Stephen Lynch (D-Massachusetts), who remembered
the advice given to him by “salty old Navy veterans” in his days a young iron worker at the General Dynamics shipyard in Quincy.
“They drilled into every welder in that shipyard the importance of what we were building and reminded us of the serious consequences of any mistake or deviation from the high standards that they set,” Congressman Lynch recalled.
Those high standards of shipbuilding, upheld across all the decades and two World Wars on the shores of Quincy, Massachusetts, built the vessels that carried countless brave young men into battles far from home. Many never returned. All are embodied in the solemn gaze and determined jaw of the Lone Sailor, forever now a sentinel on the historic shore, looking out, as all sailors must, to the sea.
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More Foliage and More Fishing at Moore Reservoir
By Dan Kenney
Autumn in New England? It’s a great time to explore some of your favorite fishing spots. As the leaves start to change, I like to head north to check out the fall foliage and, more importantly, go after those FINNED friends of mine.
That was the idea when we planned a trip to Moore Reservoir in New Hampshire, but when it was time to go, the weather wasn‘t quite what it historically is. The recent spate of hurricanes had brought warmer temps, delaying the fall foliage and keeping the water temps high.
Still, this was a trip I’d been looking forward to, and who
I driving to Concord, New Hampshire on a Friday night. We enjoyed a delicious meal at the Common Man Restaurant and were able to get a good night’s sleep in preparation for a day of hardcore fishing. The next morning we got up at 5:30 a.m., grabbed some breakfast and drove the rest of the way to meet Mark at Moore Reservoir.
If you haven’t done this trip in a while, Route 93 through Franconia Notch and all the ski resorts has some beautiful scenery. There are plenty of lakes and rivers to keep you dreaming about all the fish you can catch!
Fortunately, our persistence paid off. We caught some quality smallmouth bass, which was a ton of fun, even if they were all in the one to three-pound range. But the highlight of the day was locking onto a ninepound, 31-inch long northern Pike with light spinning tackle and an eight-pound mono, and then fighting her for three strong runs as she kept peeling off drag. Eventually, I was able to get her boatside as Mark netted her perfectly.
can complain about a 75-degree day in northern New England in October!!!
The great thing about our getaway was how it all started— as an invitation from Mark Beauchesne, Advertising & Promotions Coordinator for the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department and a guide business owner as well. Mark’s an incredibly knowledgeable guy who I enjoy speaking with at sports shows across New England, including the New England Fishing & Outdoor Expo in Boxborough, Massachusetts each January.
The trip began with my camera guy, Chris Goodney, and
With temperatures about ten degrees above normal, we knew our goal of bringing in several northern’s wasn’t going to be easy. But Mark had knowledge of the lake and killer electronics, and we were able to grind it out spot after spot in his new ranger aluminum boat.
We threw everything at them but the kitchen sink: spinnerbaits, topwater, jerkbaits, tubes, jigs, drop shot—you name it. Certainly, the fishing was tougher than expected but it was awesome to get inside a guide’s head and see what he does on a daily basis. The common ground we shared is being guys who refuse to give up. It’s an attitude of doing whatever it takes to figure out where the fish may be, no matter where you’re fishing or what the conditions are. I’ll stay out there for ten hours straight if that’s what it takes!
The other great thing about our trip was the awesomeness of Moore Reservoir. Created in 1957 as a byproduct of the Moore Dam, which was built on the Connecticut River, Moore Reservoir is New Hampshire’s fourth largest lake, with 3,500 acres. More importantly, it’s the state’s largest undeveloped lake. Thanks to a unique agreement between the hydro power company, federal and state agencies, conservation groups, and the Connecticut River Joint Commissions, Moore Reservoir is an amazing wildlife habitat featuring clean water and lots of great recreational opportunities. You’ll see zero houses and very light boat traffic.
So if you’re looking for a quick yet fun adventure full of natural beauty and fantastic angling, head to Moore Reservoir this fall...or next!
Until then, God Bless and Go Fish!
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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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