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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!
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• 12” overall length; 6 ¹⁄2” stainless steel full tang blade • Genuine bone handle with brass hand guard & bolsters • Includes genuine leather sheath
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
ARE CALLING! THE
By Capt. Quinlyn Haddon
Ahhh December, the time of year for winter holidays, end of the year relaxation, winter nesting, comfort food, and family gatherings.
Unfortunately, you were well aware this was around the corner.
e Christmas music began beckoning to your wallets from every big box store in town, before the turkey le overs had even le your fridge. For no matter what this time of year means to you, there is no escaping the overbearing push for consumerism. Tis the season to spend your hard-earned money on disposable gi Trinkets and stu ers to $ll the house with “love”, only to be forgotten more quickly than they arrived. e gi s that have always been worth the most are the ones that create memories. e e orts to visit far away family and coupons for adventures to come may not be that exciting to unwrap, but the memories of them last a lifetime.
If you happen to make your way to the Florida Keys for the Christmas memories this December, our winter $shery has your back.
yellowtail and mangrove snapper are plentiful.
Wahoo and sail$sh are cruising the reef and can be reliably targeted without losing sight of land. is is always a nice feature for those who are not sure if they can handle the seas, as the ride back is reasonably noncommittal.
With windier days in December, it may seem o -putting to plan a $shing trip for risk of cancellations. e good news is that e Florida Keys boasts versatility between $shing the Atlantic waters, and the wind-sheltered waters of the Florida Bay.
e bayside waters are pretty much always shable, as far as wave heights are concerned, and it just so happens that they are in their peak time for productivity this time of year.
Our usual suspects are bigger, and we get lots of visitors running through. Snook, trout, mackerel, tripletail, and cobia are just a few of the species that make the bay more exciting during the winter.
If you missed your opportunity at cheaper Key’s accommodations before the rise of prices during Christmas break, keep your eye on the price drop a er the $rst week of January. e $shing forecast remains the same, but the tourism gouging will begin to fall back down.
With cooler water temperatures bringing our reef to life this month, you will have excellent opportunities to $ll your cooler nearshore, without having to worry about booking full days.
Grouper are still in season throughout this month, and the mutton,
If you don’t have plans to be in the Florida Keys over the winter break, Sweet E’nuf Charters sells printable gi certi$cates for you to gi this holiday season. We would be honored to be a part of making forever memories with you and your family.
Capt. Quinlyn Haddon guides with Sweet E’Nuf Charters based out of Marathon, Florida Keys. www.captainquinlyn.com; IG: @captainquinlyn
Choosing the Best Fillet Knife
Whether you’re a weekend hobbyist or a seasoned angler, a llet knife is a tool that no angler should be without. Selecting the right one requires some thought, though, as there are many factors to consider.
By Bill Chamberlain
e material of the blade is crucial for both durability and performance. Most llet knives are made from stainless steel or high-carbon steel. Stainless steel blades are resistant to corrosion and rust, which is particularly important in wet environments. ey’re easy to clean and maintain, making them a great choice for anglers who frequently sh in saltwater. High-carbon steel blades, on the other hand, tend to be sharper and hold their edge longer, but they are more prone to rust and require regular maintenance. For most anglers, stainless steel is a safe and reliable option, especially if they spend time shing in saltwater environments. However, if you are diligent with tool maintenance, a high-carbon steel blade could o er a superior cutting experience.
e $exibility of the blade is another key consideration when choosing a llet knife. Fillet knives are designed to be $exible, allowing the angler to easily maneuver the blade around bones and skin sh. e level of $exibility o en depends on the length of the blade, with shorter blades being more rigid and longer blades o ering more $ex.
For general use, a blade length of around
six to seven inches is perfect. is size is versatile enough to handle most sh species, from pan sh to larger catches. However, if you regularly go a er bigger sh, like salmon or grouper, consider a longer blade, around nine to ten inches, to make lleting those larger sh easier. Conversely, a four to ve inch blade is ideal for those who prefer shing for smaller species.
A llet knife’s handle is just as important as the blade, as comfort and grip can signi cantly a ect performance. When lleting sh, especially in wet and slippery conditions, a good grip is vital to prevent accidents and ensure precise cuts. Look for handles made from materials like rubber or thermoplastic, which provide a non-slip grip, even when wet. Ergonomically designed handles with nger grooves o er additional comfort and control.Wooden handles are another option, o ering a more classic aesthetic. However, they can be slippery when wet and require more maintenance to avoid damage from moisture.
Traditional manual llet knives are the standard choice for most anglers, o ering a combination of control and simplicity. However, electric llet knives have grown in popularity, especially for those who frequently catch larger quantities of sh. Electric llet knives make quick work of lleting, cutting through sh with ease and saving time. If you o en processes multiple sh at once, an electric model could be a great
choice. at said, electric knives tend to be bulkier and more expensive, so for someone who enjoys the art of lleting by hand or who shes occasionally, a high-quality manual knife is likely a better t.
Consider whether the knife comes with a sheath or case for safe storage and transport. Anglers are o en on the move, and a protective sheath helps keep the knife safe and sharp while preventing accidents. Some llet knives also come with additional accessories, such as sharpeners or extra blades, which can be a nice added touch.
By focusing on the blade material, length, $exibility, handle comfort, and portability, you can nd a knife that enhances their shing experience and becomes a cherished tool for years to come.
December can be a month with a lot of action around Sebastian as well as in the lagoon from Melbourne down to Vero. The snook and trout bite will be good if the weather stays warm and there’s some bait around, but the trout will still be hungry as long as water temps don’t get too cold. If the fronts are strong, anglers will be targeting pompano, bluefish, mackerel and flounder in and around the inlet. If the seas are calm, the weather warms and the winds are down, the bait can come in nearshore and the action with sharks, blues, jacks, pompano and even tarpon can be strong, or you can fish the inlet for snook and redfish on warmer days.
Flounder opens the first of December; fishing from shore or fishing by boat are both good options. Anglers fishing from shore will target the shoreline rocks with live finger mullet, mud minnows and small menhaden rigged on a short 12- to 18-inch, 20 pound fluorocarbon leader rigged on a 3/0-5/0 hook with an egg sinker just above the swivel. Anglers fishing from boats will anchor in areas where the rocks meet the sand with the same rigs. The key to catching the bigger flounder is waiting until the tide is slowing—and not missing the bite! If I am targeting flounder, I like to use a 1/2 ounce or 3/4
ounce jigs with D.O.A. Paddle Tails or 4” jerkbaits on the bottom using either Pro-Cure or strips of mullet or pinfish as an attractant. (We catch a lot of flounder jigging, but not as many bigger fish with that technique.)
Jigging the inlet for pompano, blues, jacks and mackerel in the month of December can be a lot of fun and very productive. Jigging is a technique that helps catch a lot of different varieties of fish and keeps anglers busy. Targeting pompano and blues, rig a 1/4 ounce to 3/8 ounce jighead with a soft plastic from D.O.A. or a Doc’s Goofy jig. You can also fish the VMC Hot Skirt ducktail jigs in 1/4 to 3/8 ounce in hot pink or chartreuse as they were productive early last month.
We also get the blacktip shark migration in December. Target them with topwater poppers or live bait. The sharks explode on topwater poppers as they are feeding on the mackerel and bluefish along the beaches and can be a load of fun.
CAPT. GLYN AUSTIN
Going Coastal Charters www.goingcoastalcharters.com (321) 863-8085
DECEMBER 2024
1SU 1:40 AM 0.12 L
8:30 AM 2.71 H
2:09 PM 0.55 L
8:30 PM 2.45 H
2M 2:18 AM 0.09 L
9:12 AM 2.7 H
2:47 PM 0.55 L
9:11 PM 2.43 H
3TU 2:57 AM 0.08 L
9:54 AM 2.67 H
3:28 PM 0.55 L
9:54 PM 2.4 H
4W 3:39 AM 0.1 L
10:38 AM 2.63 H
4:12 PM 0.55 L
10:41 PM 2.37 H
5TH 4:26 AM 0.15 L
11:24 AM 2.58 H
5:01 PM 0.53 L
11:32 PM 2.34 H
6F 5:18 AM 0.22 L
12:12 PM 2.52 H
5:56 PM 0.48 L
7SA 12:29 AM 2.34 H
6:16 AM 0.3 L
1:03 PM 2.48 H
6:56 PM 0.39 L
8SU 1:31 AM 2.36 H
7:21 AM 0.37 L
1:58 PM 2.45 H
7:58 PM 0.26 L
9M 2:36 AM 2.43 H
8:27 AM 0.39 L
2:55 PM 2.44 H
8:59 PM 0.09 L
10TU 3:42 AM 2.53 H
9:31 AM 0.37 L
3:53 PM 2.47 H
9:58 PM -0.09 L
Miami Beach, Government Cut
11W 4:45 AM 2.66 H
10:31 AM 0.32 L
4:51 PM 2.52 H
10:53 PM -0.25 L
12TH 5:44 AM 2.77 H
11:27 AM 0.25 L
5:48 PM 2.57 H
11:47 PM -0.38 L
13F 6:39 AM 2.86 H
12:20 PM 0.18 L
6:43 PM 2.63 H
14SA 12:39 AM -0.45 L
7:32 AM 2.9 H
1:11 PM 0.14 L
7:35 PM 2.66 H
15SU 1:30 AM -0.46 L
8:22 AM 2.89 H
2:01 PM 0.12 L
8:26 PM 2.65 H
16M 2:19 AM -0.42 L
9:10 AM 2.83 H
2:50 PM 0.14 L
9:15 PM 2.59 H
17TU 3:09 AM -0.32 L
9:57 AM 2.74 H
3:40 PM 0.19 L
10:03 PM 2.5 H
18W 3:58 AM -0.18 L
10:42 AM 2.61 H
4:30 PM 0.24 L
10:52 PM 2.38 H
19TH 4:47 AM -0.01 L
11:27 AM 2.48 H
5:20 PM 0.3 L
11:40 PM 2.25 H
20F 5:37 AM 0.17 L
12:11 PM 2.33 H
6:12 PM 0.34 L
21SA 12:31 AM 2.14 H
6:30 AM 0.34 L
12:55 PM 2.2 H
7:05 PM 0.37 L
22SU 1:23 AM 2.05 H
7:24 AM 0.48 L
1:40 PM 2.09 H
7:58 PM 0.36 L
23M 2:18 AM 2 H
8:20 AM 0.57 L
2:28 PM 2 H
8:49 PM 0.33 L
24TU 3:14 AM 1.99 H
9:15 AM 0.61 L
3:18 PM 1.95 H
9:39 PM 0.27 L
25W 4:10 AM 2.02 H
10:08 AM 0.6 L
4:10 PM 1.94 H
10:26 PM 0.2 L
26TH 5:03 AM 2.09 H
10:56 AM 0.56 L
5:01 PM 1.96 H
11:11 PM 0.11 L
27F 5:53 AM 2.17 H
11:42 AM 0.49 L
5:52 PM 2.02 H
11:54 PM 0.01 L
28SA 6:41 AM 2.26 H
12:25 PM 0.42 L
6:39 PM 2.08 H
29SU 12:36 AM -0.09 L
7:26 AM 2.35 H
1:07 PM 0.34 L
7:25 PM 2.15 H
30M 1:18 AM -0.19 L
8:11 AM 2.42 H
1:48 PM 0.27 L
8:11 PM 2.21 H
31TU 2:00 AM -0.26 L
8:54 AM 2.48 H
2:30 PM 0.2 L
8:54 PM 2.27 H
PORT CANAVERAL OFFSHORE
FORECAST
Ihope you enjoyed Thanksgiving and are looking forward to Christmas! If you have not been out there lately you need to be!
Fishing has been awesome, as it usually is this time of year. Bunker pods have finally showed up and should continue to stay around a little while longer. Work the pods close to shore for giant red drum and other species feeding on them. We had snook, cobia and sharks. Use a 50 lb. mono leader with a one- to two-ounce weight and a 7/0 circle hook. You can knocker rig it or use a fish finder rig.
Steve with a nice king.
Take the bunker offshore for some great kingfish action in all the normal reef areas. This time of year, all the commercial guys are out there trying to support their families. Please do not get in their way; it is already hard enough with all the rules and regulations. When you see them out there doing circles, just give them the space they need to fish. There is plenty of ocean out there!
Mahi fishing has also been picking up. This is the time of year they migrate south. It’s not as good as the spring run, but can definitely pay off! Use all the typical dolphin rigs; the smaller the better.
Hope you all have an awesome holiday and enjoy your families.
CAPT. CHRIS CAMERON Fired Up Fishing Charters firedupcharters.com sharkfishingcocoabeach.com (407) 222-3573
PORT CANAVERAL NEARSHORE FORECAST
Adrop in ocean temperatures will bring a variety of fish species into Canaveral Bight this month. Cobia, tripletail, snook, bull redfish, bull whiting, bluefish, flounder and Spanish mackerel can all be found along these nearshore waters as cold fronts push them south at this time of the year. Most of these fish will strike live shrimp, pilchards or mud minnows on a sliding siker or knocker rig. A 1/2- to 3/4-ounce sized jig head is another good way to rig these baits, especially for the flounder and tripletail. If you want to specifically target the larger redfish that can often be found schooling in the bight this month, try using chunk baits. Artificial lures like Rapala’s X-Rap lipped diving plugs and Krocodile spoons can often work well when targeting the bluefish, Spanish mackerel and jack. If large bait pods are present, this is where you will find most of the cobia and bull reds.
The days between cold fronts when the weather starts to calm are usually best, so get out there when the winds are coming out of the west or north and have a blast this month.
CAPT. JIM ROSS
Fineline Fishing Charters www.FinelineFishingCharters.com (321) 636-3728
FORECAST SPACE COAST SURF FISHING
December marks the absolute most wonderful time of the year in regards to more than just holidays and family fun. We’re talking about surf fishing along the Space Coast and the highly anticipated pompano run. I can say with confidence that December signifies the height of the initial wave of pompano pushing into local beaches. For this reason it’s crucial to prepare accordingly and be proactive to find the most success.
Pompano fishing in Florida is regarded as the pinnacle species for surf fisherman along the coastline. Why is that? For one, pompano are a delicious table fare fish with buttery succulent meat. Secondly, they are an incredibly hard fighting fish for their size. Thirdly, pompano run in schools, meaning there’s always a chance you can hit the jackpot! Considering the above factors, it’s no wonder Brevard County beaches are lined with surf fishing anglers from end to end with the thought of striking it rich with a great pompano fishing day.
In order to catch pompano it’s important to understand that they are fast, elusive and finicky eaters. Now that doesn’t sound encouraging to novice anglers, but for these very reasons they’re one of my favorite fish in the world to catch. Who doesn’t love a challenge, right? On the other hand, pompano can be caught from the shore of the beach by anyone willing to invest time and energy. So, on that front, they are an accessible species to catch for all shore-bound anglers. Furthermore, it doesn’t take a lot of fancy, expensive equipment to take part in the fishery, another bonus when comprising the benefits of pompano fishing from the beach.
fast! So understand that they can be there one day and gone the next. Fish different areas or different days of the month to increase your probability of striking gold. In addition, pompano eat a variety of rigs and baits, so a diversified setup will keep your chances in the higher percentile.
The best pompano surf fishing tactics include multiple surf rods and reels, and implementing a variety of multicolored floats and beads on the standard pompano rig. In addition, sand fleas, shrimp, clams and Fishbites are the hands-down best baits for pompano fishing. Cast in a staggered pattern from the shoreline to cover the first trough, second trough and outer sandbar areas. This, once again, ensures you can cover more territory where pompano may be feeding. Fish runoffs, troughs, holes and sandbars to find the best pompano fishing on the beach.
December’s surf fishing prized pompano.
Our team at Cocoa Beach Surf Fishing Charters is looking forward to the blitz of pompano fishing in December. We will be teaching people how to catch pompano with weekly charters and courses on our local beaches. If you or anyone you know is interested in learning hands-on tactics to catch more pompano, please feel free to call or text us at (321) 205-4672. We’re happy to assist you with your surf fishing goals of catching more fish from the beach.
Enjoy the celebratory time of year with family and friends, and what better way than to take them surf fishing! We also provide gift certificates if you want to give someone the present of learning expert surf fishing tactics and a fun day on the beach.
Happy holidays!
Now let’s get down to it! Pompano primarily like to feed in clean water, meaning look for shades of water that are blue and green; dirty, muddy water will deter them from feeding and inhabiting an area. Next, pompano are
CAPT. LUKAS BRICKWEG
Cocoa Beach Surf Fishing Charters cocoabeachsurffishingcharters.com (321) 205-4672
Maguire’s first work is a compelling, fast read. His style is like a mix of Hemingway with a sardonic blend of Hunter S. Thompson. I couldn’t put it down...
Ben Martin Editor in Chief Coastal Angler Magazine “ ”
Confessions of a Fishaholic, by Thatch Maguire, is a hilarious and irreverent look at one man’s quest to catch fish in spite of life’s annoying interferences. You’ll travel with this awkward adventurer as he risks home and health to pursue his passion for fishing...regardless of the consequences. Anglers of all expertise levels will immediately identify with why his addiction is incurable. This book defines the blurred line between passion and obsession.
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Compare before you sign with any other school www.adamsmarine.com
To Reserve a Spot Call: 352-447-1950 Email: info@adamsmarine.com
By Rod Wilson
Choosing the Perfect Fishing Tools:
PLIERS AND SCISSORS AS A CHRISTMAS GIFT
Finding the ideal Christmas gi for an angler can be challenging. While rods, reels, and lures are popular options, tools like shing pliers and scissors are o en overlooked, yet essential. ese small tools can make a signi cant impact on an angler’s experience, ensuring smoother, more e$cient shing trips.
Pliers and scissors might seem like minor accessories, but they play critical roles. Pliers are used for removing hooks, crimping, cutting lines, and tuning lures. Scissors are vital for trimming shing lines, especially tough braided ones. High-quality pliers and scissors save time and e ort, allowing anglers to focus on shing.
When choosing shing tools, the material is crucial. Pliers and scissors must withstand water exposure, especially saltwater, which is highly corrosive. Stainless steel is common due to its rust resistance, but premium options like coated aluminum or titanium o er lighter and corrosionresistant alternatives. If the angler shes in saltwater, corrosion-resistant materials like anodized aluminum or titanium are ideal. Freshwater anglers can opt for stainless steel with a non-corrosive coating.
Comfort is another important factor. Fishing can be tiring, and uncomfortable tools add to the fatigue. Look for ergonomic designs with non-slip grips made from rubber or silicone for added comfort and secure handling, even in wet conditions.
Versatility in shing pliers is also worth considering. Many pliers today are multi-functional, incorporating features like line cutters, split ring openers, crimpers, and wire cutters. Multi-tool pliers reduce the number of tools an angler needs to carry. Scissors, too, vary in design, but their ability to cut through di erent line types, including mono lament, uorocarbon, and braided lines, is essential. Some even come with micro-serrated blades for enhanced cutting precision.
Portability is key for anglers who prefer to travel light. Fishing pliers and scissors should be compact yet functional. Many pliers come with a sheath and lanyard, making them easy to carry and preventing accidental loss in the water. For kayak or shore shing, compact and lightweight tools are best, while boat anglers can handle larger, feature-rich models without storage concerns.
Price is another factor to consider. While budget options are available, investing in high-quality pliers and scissors ensures longevity and better performance. Good pliers range from $20 to $50, while scissors range from $10 to $30. For dedicated anglers, it’s worth paying a bit more for durable, high-performing tools.
Choosing the right shing tools like pliers and scissors can make a thoughtful and practical Christmas gi . By considering material, comfort, versatility, size, and price, you can nd a gi that enhances their shing experience. Give the gi of convenience and quality this Christmas with top-notch shing tools any angler will appreciate.
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.
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