WINTER FISHING TIPS
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navigating peace of mind
THE IMPORTANCE OF BOAT INSURANCE
Embarking on the open water is an exhilarating experience, flled with the promise of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a weekend cruiser, protecting your vessel with proper insurance is not just a choice—it’s a necessity. Explore the reasons why every boat owner should prioritize boat insurance for a worry-free voyage.
Unpredictable waters
The open water can be unpredictable, with unexpected storms, collisions, or other potential accidents. Boat insurance can give you fnancial protection if there is damage to your vessel, providing coverage for repairs or replacement.
Damage and injury
Accidents on the water can result in damage to other boats, docks, or even injuries to passengers. Boat insurance offers liability coverage, which can pay for damages or injuries you’re liable for while boating, up to specifed limits, and lawsuit costs if you’re sued. This includes damage you cause to another watercraft or if someone on or near your boat is injured and you’re found to be legally responsible.
Theft and vandalism
Unfortunately, boat theft and vandalism are realities that boat owners face. Boat insurance has comprehensive and collision coverage that can protect you against events outside of your control, including theft and vandalism.
Incurred medical payments
Accidents on the water may lead to injuries for you or your passengers. Boat insurance offers a range of optional medical payments coverage limits, helping to cover medical expenses if you are in an accident or someone is hurt on your boat, regardless of fault.
Peace of mind for fnancing
If you fnanced the purchase of your boat, most lenders require insurance coverage to protect their investment. Having boat insurance not only fulflls these requirements but also gives you peace of mind knowing that your fnancial interests are safeguarded.
Navigational fexibility
Some water municipalities and marinas may require proof of insurance for docking or accessing certain areas. Boat insurance allows you the fexibility to explore different destinations without worrying about entry restrictions.
Emergency towing and assistance
Progressive boat insurance can include optional Sign & Glide® On-Water Towing coverage. If your boat is disabled or breaks down on the water, Sign & Glide® pays for on-water towing, jump starts, soft un-groundings, and fuel delivery.
Wreckage removal
If your boat sinks, Progressive boat insurance will cover the cost of removing your boat from the water (if removal is legally required).
Investing in boat insurance is not just about protecting a valuable asset; it’s about safeguarding the memories, experiences, and joy that come with your on-water adventures. Don’t let unforeseen circumstances disrupt your journey—navigate with confdence, knowing that Progressive boat insurance has you covered. Ensure a smooth and worry-free voyage, because when it comes to your boat, peace of mind is the ultimate luxury.
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Be Your Own Boss!
If you love the outdoors and dream of being in business for yourself, now is the perfect time to make a change and choose a Coastal Angler or e Angler Magazine Franchise.
Ask one of our specialists about franchise territory availability in your area.
MAHALO, RODNEY...
By Ben Martin, Editor in Chief
On December 11th at 3:00 p.m. the marine industry lost one of its kindest and most heartfelt supporters. A lifelong supporter of environmental awareness, the love of nature and teaching kids how to !sh, Rodney Smith was the earliest proponent of Florida’s groundbreaking net ban. He was the founder and publisher of the original Coastal Angler Magazine, creator and tireless volunteer of its Hook Kids On Fishing Program. Capt. Rodney Smith spent the better part of his life trying to improve the marine environment and sharing the wonders of the art and sport of !shing.
Rodney’s love and kindness was boundless.
Lifeguard, !shing captain, surfer, author, entrepreneur, and friend to all, Rodney Smith’s time on this earth was well spent helping others and showing love to Mother Nature and the marine environment.
Anyone whoever walked with Rodney would have invariably returned with a bag or pocketful of trash that he picked up along the way and then a erwards meticulously separated for recycling. Anyone whoever disparaged anyone else in Rodney’s presence would have immediately heard something positive about that person from Rodney. at’s just who he was.
Loving father, caring husband and faith driven entrepreneur, Rodney’s life was truly exemplary and saintlike. He will be missed, but he will also surely receive the same pat on the back and heartfelt “Good Job” that he gave to so many others while here.
The Water
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Powered by twins, it runs over 30 knots and cruises efficiently at 20-30 knots. It’s a versatile, no-frills boat focused on rock-solid performance. Ideal for those needing a reliable, easy-to-maintain platform.
Hightlights
Powered by twins, the 20CC runs over 30 knots and cruises efficiently at 20-30 knots.
It’s a versatile, no-frills boat focused on rock-solid performance. Ideal for those needing a reliable, easy-to-maintain platform.
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DISCOVER BOATING MIAMI INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 2025
A BOATER’S PARADISE AWAITS
The Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show (DBMIBS) is set to return from February 12–16, 2025, bringing an extraordinary showcase of the marine industry. is annual event continues to draw boating enthusiasts, industry leaders, and newcomers alike, o ering a combination of innovation, and community.
Highlights of the 2025 Edition
Spread across six iconic Miami locations—Miami Beach Convention Center, Pride Park, Herald Plaza, Venetian Marina, Museum Park Marina, and Superyacht Miami at Yacht Haven Grande—DBMIBS provides a multifaceted experience.
e Miami Beach Convention Center and Pride Park will host the latest in marine technology, boating gear, and vessels up to 49’’. On the water, Herald Plaza and Venetian Marina will feature a lineup of vessels, from sleek center consoles to high-performance powerboats.
A Boating Community Experience
e Progressive Boat Show Experience promises an engaging lineup of seminars, boating classes, and the popular AquaZone, an interactive space where attendees can test products and gain hands-on skills. For those looking to elevate their visit, Windward VIP tickets grant access to exclusive lounges, curated dining options, and concierge service.
Digital ticketing ensures a seamless entry process, with water taxis making it easy to explore the show’s sprawling venues. Water taxi tickets are sold separately.
From anglers to luxury yacht a!cionados, the show caters to all corners of the marine world. With its rich blend of exhibits, educational opportunities, and waterfront allure, it remains a must-visit event on the global boating calendar.
For more details and ticket options, visit www.miamiboatshow.com.
Cold Water Winter Fishing for Trout in the Smoky Mountains
By Joe Woody
When winter descends upon the Smoky Mountains, the streams and rivers transform into a serene and picturesque setting. For avid anglers, this season o ers a unique and rewarding opportunity to !sh for trout. Cold water !shing in the Smokies during winter demands preparation, knowledge, and patience, but the solitude and satisfaction of hooking a trout in these crisp conditions make it all worthwhile.
Trout are cold-water !sh, and they remain active during the winter, albeit at a slower pace. eir metabolism decreases as water temperatures drop, making them less aggressive and more selective in their feeding habits. During this season, trout tend to conserve energy by holding in deeper pools or near submerged structures where currents are slow and food is more accessible.
e Smoky Mountains, known for their pristine streams and diverse aquatic habitats, provide excellent winter !shing opportunities. e recent storm damage has not changed that, although access and former topographical structuring may be somewhat altered the !sh have adapted and so will anglers. Rainbow, brown, and brook trout can all be found in the cold, clear waters of this region, with brook trout being particularly prevalent in the higher elevations.
Winter !shing requires careful planning to ensure success and safety. e Smoky Mountains can get bitterly cold in winter. Dressing in layers, including moisturewicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outerwear, is crucial. Gloves and a hat are always a must: Nymphs, midges, and small streamers are excellent choices for winter trout !shing. Patterns like the Zebra Midge, Pheasant Tail, and Woolly Bugger o en prove e ective. Since aquatic insect activity is minimal in winter, imitating small and slowmoving prey is key.
clear, low water conditions. Using light tippets (5x or 6x) and uorocarbon leaders can improve your presentation and increase your chances of a hookup.
Focus on deeper pools and areas with slow-moving water. Dead dri ing nymphs under an indicator or slowly
Winter trout can be extra wary due to the
Townsend, this stream is a favorite among anglers for its healthy populations of rainbow and brown trout.
• Deep Creek: Known for its easy access just outside Bryson City, this area o ers a true remote !shing experience with just a short walk up its trail.
• Abrams Creek: Featuring clear waters and ample trout habitat, Abrams Creek is a reliable option for winter anglers
Winter trout are o en more active during the warmer parts of the day. Plan your trip to coincide with midday or early a ernoon. Low, clear water makes trout more alert to movement and noise. Approach the stream cautiously and keep a low pro!le. As any angler in these parts will tell you, always be mindful of slippery rocks and cold water. Wearing wading boots with good traction and a wading belt is essential.
retrieving a streamer can entice a bite. Pay attention to subtle strikes, as trout in winter o en feed so ly.
e Smoky Mountains are home to numerous streams, many of which are accessible year-round. Some top spots for winter !shing include:
• Little River: With easy access near
Fishing for trout in the Smoky Mountains during winter is a serene and ful!lling experience. e combination of tranquil surroundings, reduced crowds, and the challenge of cold-water angling creates an unforgettable adventure. With the right preparation and approach, you can enjoy the magic of winter !shing and make memories that will last a lifetime.
CHARTER BOOKINGS:
CALL THE CAPTAIN!
By Capt Quinlyn Haddon
Ihave been prompted to cover the topic of booking a charter a!er a recent experience I had that could have easily been avoided.
I was asked to work a charter with a company that I had never shed with before. e charter was booked last minute through a booking agency, that I will not directly mention. e notes of the booking repeatedly and clearly requested a full day o shore trip for yellow n. I went to meet with the captain, and helped him rig up for a tuna trip for the following day.
Yellow n tuna are not prevalent in the Florida Keys, but black n tuna are, so we informed the clients of this as we headed o shore in the morning.
Nearing the end of the trip, with a box full of tuna, the clients asked when we were going to get into the yellow n snapper.
e clients had wanted to sh inshore for yellowtail snapper, but they accidentally paid more for an o shore trip, simply because they used a booking agency and didn’t understand that yellow n and yellowtail were di erent species.
If you are wanting to book a charter, please call captains directly! Charter captains do not want to take you out on the water for a boat ride, we want to customize your day so you get the most out of it. Hearing about your expectations and helping answer your questions is paramount in our planning of your trip.
We do not do this job for the money, and most of us are scraping by. We have respect for what a big expense it is to book a charter. We understand that some groups may have saved up a long time to have this experience only once in their lives, and it is extremely important that we give you the trip you are looking for. We might even tell you to rethink the timing of your trip so you can come when your bucketlist sh is most targetable, something a booking agency knows nothing about. ey might be designed to take your money, but that is not what we are about.
If you nd a charter company you like through a shing booking agency, I would recommend going around them and calling a charter captain directly. Chances are that they have raised their prices to stomach the 30% fee the agency takes from them, and you can save money. Alternatively, they have not done so, and a direct call will put the money into the pocket where it belongs.
Booking agencies help ll the calendars, and for a lot of shermen whose strong suits are on the water, booking charters and advertising can be challenging. Some of the best captains have zero online presence. ere are a few agencies who aren’t as greedy as the one from this particular experience, and who may actually have knowledgeable people assisting you with your booking. However, nothing is going to beat speaking with the captain who you are hiring and sharing your day with.
We aren’t scary pirates or too busy to put in that phone time with you, and we are happy to connect with you before you book your trip. Give us a call!
Capt. Quinlyn Haddon guides with Sweet E’Nuf Charters out of Marathon, Florida Keys - (504) 920-6342. www.captainquinlyn.com; IG: @captainquinlyn
WINTER FISHING: SIZE OVER COLOR FOR SUCCESS T
By Capt. Michael Okruhlik
he question of lure size is a common debate among anglers, and while di erent situations require di erent approaches, one thing is clear: sh don’t read shing articles or watch YouTube videos. ey eat when they want, and as anglers, it’s up to us to adapt. In my experience, adjusting lure size is more important than focusing on color—especially in winter shing for coastal species like trout, red sh, and %ounder.
Size vs. Color
When things aren’t going as planned, many anglers immediately reach for a di erent color. However, I nd size to be the more important factor. Fish are typically feeding on prey of a speci c size, not necessarily a speci c color. In my experience, changing the size of the lure is usually more e ective than changing its color. If size doesn’t produce a bite, I might try changing the style of the lure next.
Changes in Estuaries
As winter approaches, our estuaries undergo several changes: cooler water temperatures, shi!ing forage patterns, less boat tra c, and o!en clearer water. ese changes create two schools of thought about lure size: go bigger or go smaller. Some anglers upsize their lures for the entire season, while others prefer downsizing. Both strategies can work, and I will utilize both methods.
Cooling Water and Fish Behavior
Cold fronts trigger cooling water temperatures and unpredictable sh behavior. Unlike the more consistent feeding patterns of stable weather, sh during early winter can make sh moody, switching between aggressive feeding and total inactivity. Late fall and early winter can be some of the best shing of the year, especially when schools of bait are %ushed out by falling tides. Hungry speckled trout and red sh follow these schools, and I prefer using smaller lures in these active feeding conditions. Fish are typically feeding on smaller prey like shrimp or shad, so a similarly sized lure is o!en the best match.
During these times, I also favor non-natural colors. When bait is abundant, sh can more easily spot a contrasting color, helping them target your lure amid the feeding frenzy. is is di erent from spring shing, where matching the color and size of the bait is key. In the fall and winter, standing out with an eye-catching color can be more e ective.
Clearer Water and Smaller Lures
Another reason for downsizing in winter is clearer water. In some bays, water visibility improves signi cantly during the winter, reaching depths of 6-7 feet of clear water. Fish aren’t accustomed to this level of clarity and can be more cautious. In these conditions, a smaller, less intrusive lure will o!en get more bites. When I can clearly see my lure bouncing along the bottom, a small presentation tends to be more successful.
Conclusion
Winter shing requires %exibility. By focusing on size and action rather than color, and adjusting to factors like water clarity and post-frontal conditions, you’ll increase your chances of success. Fish may be moody, but with the right approach, you can adapt and still catch plenty of sh.
Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures® and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.
BREVARD COASTAL ANGLER
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Capt. Glyn Austin
Capt. Lukas Brickweg
Capt. Chris Cameron
Capt. Jonathan Moss
Capt. Jim Ross
SEBASTIAN INLET TO EAU GALLIE CAUSEWAY
January is normally our coldest month of the year, but the cold fronts kept coming through early December bringing us colder weather than normal for several weeks. The cold weather slowed the bite down in the lagoon but the inlet bite was still pretty good except during the coldest and windiest days. Redfish and snook were all on the menu. The weather conditions have pushed some of the inshore bait to the beach and fired up the action.
The colder temps clean the water in the Indian River Lagoon quite a bit and the fish are lethargic. The trout have moved to deeper water and even into the inlet to get the bait flushing out along with warmer water. Long casts are the key to success in the Indian River Lagoon as the fish are wary due to the visibility. No need to get out early as the bite is better when the water warms up and we normally fish around the tides.
Anglers fishing the jetties and drifting the inlet on the outgoing tide in the evenings during or after a strong NE coldfront should have steady action with snook, jacks, bluefish, sharks and tarpon. Lures like Rapala’s X-Rap 14
and Long Cast 14 are great plugs to fish from the jetties as well as from the rocks along the west side of the bridge. Anglers drifting live bait between the fenders will have plenty of snook action as well as redfish and tarpon.
The flounder will still be in the inlet and anglers can catch them from shore and boat with live bait or 1/2- to 3/4-ounce jigs with strip baits or soft plastics like the D.O.A. Paddle tails or 4” jerkbaits.
If the rains aren’t strong and the locks stay closed, the trout, drum and redfish will move into the Sebastian River, Crane Creek and Turkey Creek. Live shrimp and finger mullet are great live baits or you can fish the Rapala Twitchin’ Mullet or Shadow Rap Shad around docks and oyster bars and catch some very nice trout as well as snook, jacks, ladyfish and the occasional redfish or tarpon.
CAPT. GLYN AUSTIN
PORT CANAVERAL NEARSHORE FORECAST
Iam really looking forward to guiding my fishing charter customers in the near-coastal waters around Port Canaveral this month. When the weather conditions allow there are usually plenty of fish to pull on. Pompano, bull whiting, bluefish, tripletail, huge redfish and plenty of other species make for a great mixed bag of fish. Some are really tasty, and others are more suited for sport, but either way there is no shortage of action along the Space Coast during the month of January. Shrimp are the number one live bait to use for most of these fish species. I also have my anglers cast a myriad of artificial lures at times. Pompano jigs, goofy jigs, spoons and Rapala lipped diving plugs are top producers for most of the species we target. On most days, the Rapala X-Rap 08 and 10 size plugs in a black or green back are enthusiastically eaten by the aforementioned predatory species.
Remember that on the day of a cold front, you will get a window that is usually great fishing just prior to the front passing through. Expect the next day of fishing to be slow. On the second or third day after the front it usually becomes a “slay-fest” as the temperatures warm. The fish that haven’t eaten for a day or two normally go on a feeding frenzy. Time it right and you can have one of the best fishing days of your life. Give a fishing charter a try if you want to get out and experience some of this fantastic action. I would love to get you out to catch your next memory!
PORT CANAVERAL OFFSHORE
FORECAST
Ihope everyone’s holidays and New Year celebrations were awesome and safe! Just want to say thank you to everyone who helped me out this past year. Without our fishing community being so friendly to one another all the time, fishing would be way more difficult at times. Part of doing well out here is knowing where they’re chewing and sometimes relying on the help from fellow captains. Thank You!
I am asked to have these reports in a month ahead of time so it can be hard sometimes to give an accurate forecast almost two months away. If I have been off, I am sorry. I definitely try my best to go by what has been running, what should be running and what was running a year ago to come up with the best report I can.
Besides the weather being the biggest factor in January, fishing is normally pretty good. The king run should continue to do well. This is also usually the time the sails and wahoo get a little better for us. I looked at my pictures from last year and I remembered we had a few good days of mahi too.
Please be sure to follow up on all the regulations. I know its tough when they are constantly changing.
If the wind allows you to at least fish the beach, you may come across sea trout, whiting and croakers to keep you and the kids occupied. Take advantage of the few good days we’re going to see and get out there and hook a few fish! I look forward to an awesome year and I hope y’all do too.
CAPT. CHRIS CAMERON Fired Up Fishing Charters firedupcharters.com sharkfishingcocoabeach.com (407) 222-3573
JANUARY 2025
DAY TIME HEIGHT
1W 2:40 AM -0.32 L
9:35 AM 2.51 H
3:11 PM 0.1 L
9:40 PM 2.3 H
2TH 3:24 AM -0.31 L
10:17 AM 2.51 H
3:55 PM 0.03 L
10:27 PM 2.31 H
3F 4:11 AM -0.26 L
11:00 AM 2.47 H
4:43 PM -0.05 L
11:18 PM 2.31 H
4SA 5:01 AM -0.16 L
11:45 AM 2.41 H
5:33 PM -0.11 L
5SU 12:12 AM 2.29 H
5:56 AM -0.03 L
12:32 PM 2.32 H
6:29 PM -0.16 L
6M 1:10 AM 2.27 H
6:55 AM 0.09 L
1:23 PM 2.24 H
7:28 PM -0.21 L
7TU 2:12 AM 2.25 H
7:59 AM 0.19 L
2:20 PM 2.16 H
8:30 PM -0.26 L
8W 3:18 AM 2.25 H
9:05 AM 0.24 L
3:23 PM 2.12 H
9:33 PM -0.31 L
9TH 4:25 AM 2.28 H
10:09 AM 0.23 L
4:28 PM 2.12 H
10:34 PM -0.38 L
10F 5:29 AM 2.34 H
11:09 AM 0.18 L
5:32 PM 2.17 H
11:32 PM -0.44 L
Miami Beach, Government Cut
11SA 6:28 AM 2.4 H
12:06 PM 0.11 L
6:31 PM 2.24 H
12SU 12:27 AM -0.49 L
7:21 AM 2.46 H
12:59 PM 0.03 L
7:25 PM 2.3 H
13M 1:18 AM -0.51 L
8:09 AM 2.49 H
1:49 PM -0.03 L
8:15 PM 2.33 H
14TU 2:07 AM -0.5 L
8:54 AM 2.49 H
2:36 PM -0.08 L
9:01 PM 2.32 H
15W 2:53 AM -0.43 L
9:36 AM 2.45 H
3:21 PM -0.1 L
9:46 PM 2.28 H
16TH 3:37 AM -0.33 L
10:15 AM 2.38 H
4:05 PM -0.1 L
10:29 PM 2.21 H
17F 4:20 AM -0.19 L
10:53 AM 2.28 H
4:47 PM -0.07 L
11:11 PM 2.12 H
18SA 5:03 AM -0.04 L
11:29 AM 2.16 H
5:30 PM -0.03 L 11:53 PM 2.03 H
19SU 5:46 AM 0.12 L 12:06 PM 2.03 H 6:12 PM 0.02 L
20M 12:37 AM 1.93 H 6:31 AM 0.27 L
12:44 PM 1.91 H
6:57 PM 0.07 L
21TU 1:24 AM 1.85 H
7:20 AM 0.4 L 1:27 PM 1.8 H 7:46 PM 0.11 L
22W 2:17 AM 1.79 H
8:14 AM 0.48 L
2:15 PM 1.73 H
8:39 PM 0.12 L
23TH 3:15 AM 1.77 H
9:12 AM 0.51 L
3:11 PM 1.69 H
9:34 PM 0.09 L
24F 4:16 AM 1.79 H
10:09 AM 0.49 L
4:12 PM 1.7 H
10:28 PM 0.01 L
25SA 5:16 AM 1.88 H
11:03 AM 0.42 L
5:13 PM 1.77 H
11:20 PM -0.11 L
26SU 6:11 AM 2 H
11:53 AM 0.31 L
6:09 PM 1.88 H
27M 12:08 AM -0.25 L
7:00 AM 2.15 H
12:39 PM 0.17 L
7:01 PM 2.02 H
28TU 12:54 AM -0.38 L
7:46 AM 2.29 H
1:24 PM 0.02 L
7:50 PM 2.16 H
29W 1:39 AM -0.48 L
8:29 AM 2.4 H
2:08 PM -0.14 L
8:38 PM 2.28 H
30TH 2:24 AM -0.54 L
9:11 AM 2.47 H
2:51 PM -0.29 L
9:25 PM 2.38 H
31F 3:09 AM -0.54 L
9:53 AM 2.5 H
3:36 PM -0.42 L
10:13 PM 2.43 H
Nice gag grouper. Gotta love seeing one of these surface up!
A beautiful haul coming home off the Fire Fight with Capt. Joe.
GET READY FOR R
SPACE COAST SURF FISHING FORECAST
oll into the new year with peak surf fishing along the Space Coast. Pompano, whiting, mackerel, bluefish and drum will be on tap for the winter surf fishing season. January traditionally produces amazing pompano fishing days along with the above named species. But let's acknowledge the fact that pompano is undoubtedly the target species.
Surf fishing in Cocoa Beach south to Sebastian Inlet provides the best surf fishing spots. For one, the water temperature during January typically holds in the range pompano prefer. Secondly, January produces weather patterns that assist in the water clarity. These two combined factors are of utmost importance when targeting pompano in the surf.
How to catch pompano in the surf depends on a variety of conditions, but I will mention my favorite tactics to assist your pursuit in catching these prized fish. First off, ideal surf fishing gear requires rods of 10-12 feet and reels in the 6000-8000 series. Next, pompano rigs with a variety of multicolored floats and beads will attract pompano to your rigs. Lastly, the use of products like Fishbites accompanied with live sand fleas or fresh shrimp make for a deadly combination.
Now that you’re all set up with gear it’s time to discuss where to fish for pompano. The perfect pompano surf fishing spot depends on a variety of factors including water temperature, clarity and surf conditions, the most important being water clarity.
Pompano don’t particular prefer murky water with shades of brown or milky looking.
Surf conditions for targeting pompano refer to beach runouts, troughs and currents. For instance, a beach with these geographical areas will provide areas for pompano to feed. You will have a greater opportunity to catch pompano along with whiting and other species if you can identify these areas. Cast surf fishing rigs in the runouts and deep holes where troughs are present. They can be identified by the confused currents indicating turbulent water.
What’s the best tide to fish for pompano? I get this question a lot! And there’s no one universal tide that ensures the best bite. With that being said, it’s important to fish multiple, different tides and use that information towards your future trips. One day it can be on the beginning of incoming tide, then the following week on the last of outgoing and so forth. So put in time to isolate the best scenario as the patterns change.
In summary, January surf fishing will provide action packed days when the conditions align. The best strategy is to fish as often as possible to maximize your window to strike it rich. You don’t want to be the guy being told, “Should of been here yesterday…” As always, if you have any questions with setting up surf fishing gear or tactics for doing more catching than fishing, feel free to reach out to us at (321) 205-4672.
CAPT. LUKAS BRICKWEG
Cocoa Beach Surf Fishing Charters cocoabeachsurffishingcharters.com (321) 205-4672
BRAG BOARD
Ryan Lofgren caught his first redfish ever —and a bull sizing in at 42 inches—on a live blue crab. Safely released her back home...
Miles Drapeau of Melbourne Beach checks another first off his list with this 38-inch wahoo, caught trolling a black and red skirted Ballyhoo 25 miles off Sebastian Inlet the day before Thanksgiving.
Eleven-year-old Jackson caught his first ever snook in Cocoa Beach surf fishing with live mullet. Way to go, Dude!
Mel Essig got this skinny water red on the Indian River in
For your chance to get featured on the Brag Board, upload your high-quality photos (at least 1MB) with all of the catch details at:
Titusville.
Kayla Begera caught a 32-inch gator trout in the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge on a fresh cut ladyfish.
PR TIPS
Happy New Year! It's that time again where we all begin making those New Year's Resolutions! Have you made yours yet? Are we cutting back on sweets or social media? Are we pledging to get into the gym to work off those extra holiday pounds?
This year I'm planning on something a little different. Yes, I eat too many sweets and spend way too much time on my phone and, yes, I do need to get my butt in gear and back in the gym because—let's be honest—it wasn't just the holidays that added on the extra few pounds. These are all great goals and I will do my best, but this time I want to pledge to do something else.
This year I pledge to learn something new, everyday, by being better at things I do every day. Here's my plan:
1) Be more consistent with completing entries in my Captain's Log. Every chance we get to be on the water is an opportunity to learn more about the spots we fish. We must begin to really analyze our tools, tactics and fishing conditions. But it doesn't end there. My dad is always reminding me that "the weakest link is stronger than the best memory." And that saying is right! Let's begin writing about our fishing experiences in our Captain's Log, complete with date and time on the water, rod and reel selection, lure, fly or bait choice, cloud coverage, wind speed, air and water temperature and, of course, where we fished and caught fish. Having these things written down allows for the angler to figure out patterns and provides ideas of where to fish certain times of the year based off knowledge gained from previous years. We need a baseline and that begins by adding in new entries to our Captain's Log.
2) Slow down. I am finding more and more that if I get a bite or catch a fish that chances are there are more fish in close proximity. Too often a fish will get in the boat, and we keep on moving. But the days that I intentionally and quietly wait, look, listen and really pay attention after catching a fish, I find more fish in that same zone without even moving the boat. I recently had a trip on the Mosquito Lagoon where this played out five different times at five different spots. I am truly a power fisherman, and want to cover as much water as possible. But when I stop after a bite or landed fish, I consistently find and catch more fish at that same spot. And that's exactly what happened the other day. I power-poled down and we fished that same zone and caught fish after fish until the fish stopped biting because we caught them all! I am learning from these moments and it is infectious. Pictured with me from that day is repeat client, Dave, from Texas. He boated well over 50 fish and we lost count of how many inshore slams (redfish, speckled sea trout, snook) he caught. I even got to catch a few! :)
CAPT. JONATHAN MOSS
Go Castaway Fishing Charters www.gocastaway.com www.thecaptainslogtv.com (407) 760-8593
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By A. deGruchy
GULF FISHING! Wintertime
If you’re looking for an unforgettable start to a 2025 adventure, Islamorada is the place to be. Known as the “Sport!shing Capital of the World,” this gem in the Florida Keys o ers easy access to the Gulf of Mexico, where the waters are packed with some of the most exciting !sh around: cobia and permit.
Cobia are a favorite for good reason. ese !sh are curious, strong, and put up one heck of a !ght. You’ll o en !nd them hanging out near wrecks, buoys, or even %oating debris, and when they bite, you’ll know it. ey can grow up to 60 pounds, so get ready for a battle when one hits your line. ey also make excellent table fare! We are coming up to the best months to target cobia, so de!nitely keep this species in mind when booking a charter.
Permit !shing is next-level stu . ese sleek, silver beauties are as smart as they are strong, making them a bucket-list catch for many anglers. ey love to hang around wrecks and %ats, and they’re picky eaters. ey love crustaceans, but o en get spooked so your casts must be close to perfect. e real thrill of !shing for permit is in the chase. Spotting a permit tailing in the gulf waters, casting just right, and then feeling that line go tight is pure adrenaline. ey’ll test your patience and your skill, but the payo is worth it.
For the ultimate Gulf !shing experience in Islamorada, check out Bean Sport!shing. Capt. Bean specializes in targeting cobia and permit, ensuring a day on the water you’ll never forget. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a !rst-time angler, his expertise and passion for !shing will make your trip both exciting and successful.
To book a charter, visit www.beansport shing.com. You can also nd Capt. Bean on Instagram @bean_sport shing.
THE NEW YEAR BRINGS NEW OPPORTUNITY
Tim Barefoot
As winter deepens, cooler waters push more !sh o the beaches and toward the warmer edges of the Gulf Stream. With grouper and snapper now o -limits due to regulations, it’s time to shi our focus to productive species still on the table—trigger!sh, vermilion snapper (beeliners), and seabass. For those looking to venture even deeper, deepdropping remains an exciting option.
e December full moon o en marks a turning point in !shing. Grouper and speckled trout seasons wind down, leaving anglers to adapt to what the regulatory environment allows. Fortunately, the stacks of triggers, beeliners, and pelagics in deeper waters o er excellent opportunities. Start your search around the 150-foot mark and use your !sh!nder to locate promising spots.
Tools of the Trade
For precision !shing, modern tools like spot-lock trolling motors—such as the Rhodan or Minn Kota—are game changers. ese motors allow you to hover directly over schools of !sh with ease. However, they can be limited when deploying a kite, as the wind necessary for kite !shing can drain trolling motor batteries quickly. at’s
where anchoring, a classic yet e ective technique, comes into play.
Yes, anchoring may feel like a step back for those spoiled by spot-lock motors, but it’s a reliable method for staying on productive marks without straining batteries. Once anchored, consider adding a kite to your !shing arsenal. Kites are particularly e ective for enticing leader-shy species like yellow!n tuna and wahoo. When properly deployed, they minimize visible leader material in the water, o en resulting in immediate strikes.
Teamwork and Preparation
provide hardy, versatile bait. Supplement your live bait with cast-netted !sh to use as live chum or cut into chunks.
A sabiki rig is another indispensable tool. Jigging up live bait at your !shing spot o en produces exactly what predatory species are feeding on. Don’t hesitate to use small snapper, grunts, or other bait!sh you catch with a sabiki as o erings on your light line or kite. Wahoo, for example, have been known to eat everything from full-sized grunts to snapper. Frozen or fresh Spanish mackerel also make excellent bait for wahoo and tuna.
Successful kite !shing requires teamwork. Assign one crew member to manage the kite and bait while others focus on !lling the cooler with trigger!sh and snapper. Proper setup is essential. Bring live bait from inshore or nearshore waters; cigar minnows, sardines, pin!sh, and menhaden are excellent choices. A pin!sh trap can also
The
Experience Fishing during this time of year is about more than just !lling your cooler; it’s about enjoying the process and making memories. Whether you’re targeting bottom-dwellers like trigger!sh or keeping a light line out for the chance at a wahoo or tuna, the key is to stay adaptable and prepared. As always, take the kids along and capture plenty of videos of your adventures. Fishing is more than just a hobby— it’s a way of life.
For more from Tim Barefoot, visit barefootcatsandtackle.com and check out his YouTube channel.
Junior Angler Breaks World Record with Massive Payara
At just six years old, Nathan “Bibil” Barreto is already making waves in the angling world! On July 8, 2024, while !shing Brazil’s iconic Juruena River, Nathan landed an incredible 11.79-kg (26-lb) payara. is catch shattered the IGFA Men’s Smallfry World Record for the species.
Nathan hooked the record-setting payara using cut bait, showcasing his growing skills as an angler. A er verifying the weight on a certi!ed scale, he ensured the safe release of this magni!cent !sh. Nathan’s actions not only highlighted his talent but also demonstrated that conservation is a value no angler is too young to embrace.
What Are Smallfry World Records?
e International Game Fish Association (IGFA) has established guidelines for Smallfry World Records to encourage young anglers. Here’s what you need to know:
• Species: Records are maintained for the heaviest !sh of any eligible species.
• Age: Categories exist for male and female anglers aged 10 years and under.
• Weight: Fish do not need to be weighed on land, as long as the weight is veri!ed appropriately.
• L ine Class: Records are recognized for all line and tippet classes covered under IGFA rules.
• Other Rules: All IGFA International Angling Rules apply, except for the standard weighing requirement.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Encouraging young anglers to aim for world record catches—or simply to submit outstanding catches for consideration—o ers a fantastic opportunity to foster a love of !shing. e IGFA’s Smallfry division plays a vital role in promoting the sport among young enthusiasts.
Taking a kid !shing doesn’t just teach them valuable skills—it can improve their lives and create unforgettable memories. Who knows? You might even help them reel in a world record!
For more information on the IGFA Smallfry records division, visit www.IGFA.com.
Braid vs. Monofilament Fishing Line: Which Is Best?
Choosing the right !shing line is crucial for success on the water. Two popular options— braided and mono!lament lines—o er distinct advantages, and your choice o en depends on your !shing style, target species, and conditions. Let’s compare their strengths and weaknesses to help you decide.
Braided line stands out for its high strength-todiameter ratio. Its thin pro!le allows for less drag and greater line capacity on reels, making it ideal for deep-water !shing. For instance, a 30-pound braid can match the diameter of an 8-pound mono!lament. Mono!lament, while thicker, provides added durability and is o en preferred in situations requiring extra shock absorption, such as battling !sh with sudden, strong runs.
Braid has minimal stretch, giving it superior sensitivity. is makes it perfect for techniques like jigging or bottom !shing, where detecting subtle bites is crucial. It also enhances hook-setting power. On the other hand, mono!lament’s stretch acts as a cushion during hard strikes, reducing the risk of breakage.
Mono!lament generally o ers better abrasion resistance, making it a top choice in areas with rocks or heavy cover. However, it is prone to UV damage over time, which can weaken the line.
Braid is more resistant to UV exposure but can fray easily when rubbed against rough surfaces.
Braided line’s thin diameter and lack of stretch give it an edge for long-distance casting, especially in open water. However, mono!lament’s low visibility underwater makes it advantageous for targeting skittish !sh in clear water. To counter braid’s visibility, many anglers use a uorocarbon leader.
e choice between braid and mono depends on your needs. Braid excels in strength, sensitivity, and casting, while mono shines in shock absorption, abrasion resistance, and stealth. Many anglers carry both to adapt to various scenarios or use a braid mainline with a mono or uorocarbon leader for versatility.
Ultimately, knowing when to use each type can make all the di erence in your !shing success.
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