FREE
CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT, NC EDITION
Brown Trout
on the Move
Icelandic
Salmon Adventure
Local
Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events PHOTO COURTESY OF ANDY DELLIVENERI VOLUME 23 • ISSUE 272
F R A N C H I S E
1017_TAM_CVR.indd 9
THEANGLERMAG.COM O P P O R T U N I T I E S
A V A I L A B L E
OCTOBER 2017
W O R L D W I D E
9/18/17 10:47 AM
COMMON CVRS_1017.indd 2
9/18/17 3:24 PM
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 3
I
OCTOBER 2017
I
NATIONAL
3
9/20/17 2:35 PM
4
NATIONAL
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 4
I
OCTOBER 2017
I
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
9/20/17 2:35 PM
By CAM Staff A truck load of kayaks from Confluence Outdoors was overnighted to Texas for use in water rescues.
I
t was an historic hurricane season. With Harvey battering the Texas and Louisiana Gulf Coast and Irma strafing the length of Florida, damage from high winds and flooding was catastrophic. It is in such trying times that the American spirit shines. Harvey slammed ashore near Rockport, Texas on Aug. 25 and stalled out over southeast Texas, dropping up to 52 inches of rain over the next five days. The flooding was cataclysmic. Major highways turned to rivers and much of the Houston area was under water. Even as floodwaters rose, lines began forming on the sides of the highway. These were volunteers headed into the deluge to launch boats from freeway off-ramps. It looked like the launch line for the world’s largest fishing tournament. It was a proud moment for the fishing community. Anglers from all over the region rushed to the rescue pulling bass boats, jonboats and skiffs. Dubbed the Cajun Navy, this rag-tag bunch of heroes— along with official emergency response—conducted thousands of water recues. And response from the fishing and boating industries was strong as well. The following are few examples of how the fishing industry stepped in with a helping hand. Confluence Outdoors leaped into action as the magnitude of the flooding became clear. They overnighted a semi-truck load of Wilderness Systems and Perception kayaks to Houston. The boats, as well as paddles and PFDs provided by Confluence, were used in high-water rescue by Houston authorities. Honda went to work moving needed products like generators and water pumps to affected areas. And while Honda dealers went to work in rescue efforts, Honda Marine went to work making sure those dealers were stocked up to serve their communities with vital equipment. Additionally, Honda pledged $100,000 to the American Red Cross. The pledge will consist of a corporate contribution as well as a dollar-for-dollar matching gift program for Honda associate contributions. Evinrude immediately donated a boat and motor to a volunteer fire department in Lockport, Texas. The second phase of their relief effort was to deploy a wave of engines to area boatbuilders as well as food and clothing. Evinrude also agreed to match dollar-for-dollar donations to the American Red Cross made by employees. Suzuki, through its Texas dealers, donated boats, motors, ATVs and time to the rescue efforts. In addition, Suzuki provided two outboards to rescue efforts for Carolina Skiff boats that were on their way to Ron Hoover Marine, which has multiple locations in the affected area. Orvis recognized an immediate need for rain gear and wading gear. As well as supplying as many as they could, Orvis put the call out for individuals to ship waders, boots and rain jackets to the San Antonio Orvis location for distribution to rescue personnel. Platypus Fishing Line pledged to donate 100 percent of its website profits in September to the Red Cross Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund. The storms and damage from this season’s hurricanes were enormous, and so was the outpouring of support. As anglers and boaters, we should be proud of the response from our community.
MARINE-GRADE BOAT COVERS
T-Tops
Chairs & Seats
Outboards
Center Consoles
CoverAlls boat covers prevent expensive weather damage to your boat. They're made from tough custom material that's saltwater-proof, UV proof, and reflects 90% of radiant heat. 100% American marine-grade components like stainless grommets, braided poly draw cords, and non-metallic cam locks keep CoverAlls covers in place in all kinds of coastal weather.
COMPACT DURABLE KAYAK COVERS CoverAlls kayak covers keep your kayak clean, dry and away from the damaging effects of sun, dirt, pollen and water. Keeps critters out too! CoverAlls kayak covers are brutally strong, waterproof, and UV resistant. They slip on and off quickly and pack up tight.
214-350-2690 sales@coveralls.biz
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 5
Leaning Posts
www.coveralls.biz I
OCTOBER 2017
I
NATIONAL
5
9/20/17 2:35 PM
EDITOR IN CHIEF : Ben Martin • camads@coastalanglermagazine.com VICE PRESIDENT : Tracy Patterson • tracy@coastalanglermagazine.com ART DIRECTOR : Rebecca Snowden • graphics@coastalanglermagazine.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR : Nick Carter • editorial@coastalanglermagazine.com WEBMASTER : Dmitriy Pislyagin • webmaster@coastalanglermagazine.com ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: Corporate Headquarters info@coastalanglermagazine.com • 888-800-9794
If you love the outdoors and the Fishing Industry, you owe it to yourself to check out the Franchise Opportunities available with The Angler Magazine. Now, you can be in business for yourself… FREE but not by yourself.
Raleigh, NC Brown Trout on the Move
FLORIDA
BIG BEND : Mike McNamara • (850) 510-7919 • captmike@coastalanglermagazine.com BREVARD : David String • (321) 684-5888 • dstring@coastalanglermagazine.com DAYTONA/NEW SMYRNA BEACH : Don Meadows • (321) 436-5895 • donm@coastalanglermagazine.com EMERALD COAST/DESTIN/PENSACOLA : Scott Risher • (850) 428-0996 • srisher@coastalanglermagazine.com FLORIDA KEYS : Cliff Lumpkin • (305) 849-9093 • cliff@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT LAUDERDALE : Gene Dyer • (954) 680-3900 • gene@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT MYERS : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER MIAMI : Scott Deal • (561) 945-6999 • scott@coastalanglermagazine.com Monica Isaza-Deal • (561) 945-8899 • monica@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER ORLANDO : Phillip & Giselle Wolf • (407) 790-9515 • phillip@coastalanglermagazine.com LAKELAND & SUMTER : Mary Brasher • (352) 598-4219 • maryf@coastalanglermagazine.com NAPLES : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com NC FLORIDA/NATURE COAST : Cary & Lynn Crutchfield • (352) 372-4237 • crutch@coastalanglermagazine.com NE FLORIDA : Danny Patrick • (904) 742-4696 • danny@coastalanglermagazine.com PANAMA CITY/FORGOTTEN COAST : Randy Cnota • (229) 834-7880 • randyc@coastalanglermagazine.com PALM BEACH COUNTY : Barbara Ryan • (561) 373-8040 • barbara@coastalanglermagazine.com SARASOTA : Phil Prevoir • (239) 257-4684 • pprevoir@coastalanglermagazine.com TAMPA BAY : Chuck Atkins • (239) 464-5153 • chuck@coastalanglermagazine.com TREASURE COAST : Misti & Gary Guertin • (772) 285-6850 • treasurecoast@coastalanglermagazine.com flahama@coastalanglermagazine.com
SOUTHEAST
ATLANTA/SW GEORGIA : Bob & Brenda Rice • (706) 614-8231 • bobr@theanglermagazine.com CHARLESTON : Jane A. Redden • (205) 725-9616 • jane@coastalanglermagazine.com Sam Buckareff • (843) 607-8629 • sam@coastalanglermagazine.com CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT : Mark & Haley Alberghini • (704) 651-1934 • mark@theanglermagazine.com MYRTLE BEACH : Mike Masiero • (732) 674-3019 • mmasiero@coastalanglermagazine.com TIDEWATER/OUTER BANKS : John Tiger • (757) 707-9654 • john.tiger@coastalanglermagazine.com Laura Seitz • (757) 707-9655 • laura@coastalanglermagazine.com UPSTATE SOUTH CAROLINA : Gregg Thompson • (864) 542-3112 • gregg@theanglermagazine.com WESTERN NC : Debra & Joe Woody • (828) 775-9663 • woody@theanglermagazine.com WILMINGTON/MOREHEAD : Kenny Ritter • (910) 550-9094 • kenny@coastalanglermagazine.com
NORTHEAST
Icelandic
Salmon Adventure
Local
Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events PHOTO COURTESY OF VOLUME 23 • ISSUE
ANDY DELLIVENERI
272
F R A N C H I S E
.COM LER MAG W O R L D W I D E THE ANG A VA I L A B L E R T U N I T I E S O P P O
9/17/17 3:58 PM
1017_TAM_CVR.indd
1
For More Information On This And Other Franchise Locations
Call Tracy Patterson
321-777-2773
Email Tracy@coastalanglermagazine.com
Be Your Own Boss TENNESSEE FRANCHISE FOR SALE FREE
If you love the outdoors and the Fishing Industry, you owe it to yourself to check out the Franchise Opportunities available with The Guide To Angler Magazine. Now, Adirondacks you can be in business Bass for yourself… but not by yourself.
Best of ICAST
BOSTON : George Regan • (617) 488-2842 • boston@coastalanglermagazine.com LONG ISLAND : Lisa & Michael Danforth • (203) 321-7635 • lisad@coastalanglermagazine.com CONNECTICUT/RHODE ISLAND : Lisa & Michael Danforth • (203) 321-7635 lisad@coastalanglermagazine.com
GULF COAST
GALVESTON/MATAGORDA/UPPER COAST : Chanci & David Mowry • (713) 446-7395 • chancim@coastalanglermagazine.com • davidm@coastalanglermagazine.com MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST : Adam Nelson • (228) 627-5903 • anelson@coastalanglermagazine.com Toby Nelson • (228) 623-1761 • tnelson@coastalanglermagazine.com NEW ORLEANS : Dr. Dave Dunaway • (225) 400-8156 • nola@coastalanglermagazine.com
GREAT LAKES
INTERNATIONAL PUERTO RICO/VIRGIN ISLANDS : Ace Bassue • (407) 285-9453 • ace@coastalanglermagazine.com COSTA RICA : Mike Erickson • (561) 262-2242 • mike@coastalanglermagazine.com © 2017. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. Disclaimer: Coastal Angler Magazine / The Angler Magazine will not be held liable for injuries incurred while partaking in activities described herein, or for claims made against products or services provided by advertisers.
6
NATIONAL
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 6
I
OCTOBER 2017
I
TENNESSEE Local
Alaska's Best Fishing Destinations PHOTO COURTESY OF
WEST MICHIGAN : Phil Belsito • (616) 957-1714 • phil@theanglermagazine.com
OCTOBER 2017
Raleigh, NC is a vibrant market with a solid industry base. Outdoor enthusiasts will quickly recognize The Angler Magazine as a favorite resource. Come join our successful team of copublishers today. It’s a great way to earn a living.
VOLUME 23 • ISSUE
OM
RESPHOTOGRAPHY.C
LOUIS TORRES OF LOUISTOR
270
F R A N C H I S E
Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events
.COM LER MAG W O R L D W I D E THE ANG A VA I L A B L E R T U N I T I E S
AUGUST 2017
Stable market, completely turn-key, and ready to go. Welcome to Tennessee!
O P P O
For More Information On This And Other Franchise Locations
Call Tracy Patterson
321-777-2773
Email Tracy@coastalanglermagazine.com
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
9/20/17 2:35 PM
199 Years of proven performance. Don’t take a chance.
SOFGRIP Fillet Knives.
UR-CUT moldable handle fillet Knives
EXPERIENCE THE
FIGHT! Full Variable Speed Control Powerful Brushless Motor Retains Handle Function Digital Line Counter Auto Stop, 12/24VDC Compact & Sleek Design
SOFGRIP Coated Knives.
dexteroutdoors.com
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 7
855-HOOK-ONE
Find them at your local or online retailer.
I
OCTOBER 2017
I
NATIONAL
7
9/20/17 2:36 PM
Where do you want to be? Don’t take the same old journey. Be somewhere genuine. Be somewhere amazing. Be changed.
800.828.4244 · visithendersonvillenc.org Call for your complimentary Getaway Guide
8
NATIONAL
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 8
I
OCTOBER 2017
I
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
9/20/17 2:36 PM
Micron : Generations of Innovation ®
The innovation continues… We are excited to introduce Micron WA as the newest addition to the Micron Technology family. Micron WA is a multi-seasonal, polishing, water-based antifouling with the unique Water Activated matrix. This novel paint technology delivers a crisp color, and premium long lasting protection for all waters! The Micron Technology family offers a range of premium products that meets your needs while delivering true and proven performance. For generations Micron Technology has been protecting boats coast to coast by improving fuel efficiencies while reducing paint build up through controlled polishing. Whatever the year, you know you’ll always have the latest and best in Micron Technology. Visit our website for more information – yachtpaint.com
Scan the code with your smartphone to watch our Micron film. 8505/0817
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 9
All trademarks mentioned are owned by, or licensed to, the AkzoNobel group of companies. © AkzoNobel 2017.
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
I
OCTOBER 2017
I
NATIONAL
9
9/20/17 2:36 PM
Fly Fishing GEAR
Simms G3 Guide Stockingfoot Wader
Goat Head Spool Clips
Without sacrificing durability, Simms’ has constructed its most comfortable, best fitting and most breathable wader in the new G3 Guide Stockingfoot Wader. The G3 Guide was awarded Best Fly Fishing Accessory at ICAST 2017. Constructed with 4-layer GORE-TEX Pro Shell fabric in the legs and three-layer in the upper, this wader concentrates durability where it is needed most while providing added breathability. It takes comfort and mobility to a new level. The wader comes equipped with a chest pocket, removable flip-out Tippet Tender , hand-warmer pockets, integrated utility tabs and also features Simms’ patented front and back leg seams, gravel guards, and suspenders with opposing YKK buckles that allow for a waist-high conversion. It is available in models for men and women.
How many times have your clunky old tippet caddies gotten tangled in the bushes or hung up in slack line? Goat Head Spool Clips are an ingenious new way to carry spools of tippets more securely. Their simple and compact design keeps your spools handy yet out of the way at the same time. A single Spool Clip will hold two standard tippet spools and fits securely to most nylon straps. Spool Clips are made in the U.S.A. from 100 percent recycled plastic. They are simple, rugged, compact, versatile and always ready when you need them.
www.simmsfishing.com
www.goatheadgear.com Orvis Helios 3
Douglas Argus Reel There is no denying the beauty and simplicity of a clickcheck reel. Without the advantage of a disc drag, the angler is more in touch with the fish and fights are more fun. The Douglas Argus Fly Reel is a fine looking click-check reel that gets you closer to the fish. It is a shared legacy between longtime anglers and the next demanding generation. On one hand, it is a beautiful reel. On the other, there is no undue advantage given to the angler. Reel includes a twilled pouch. It is made in Upstate New York out of machined bar stock 6061 aircraft aluminum with a standard arbor, and reversible click check with rim-positioned adjustment. The rim is laser textured for palming. The reel seat is constructed of marine brass.
www.douglasoutdoors.com
Arc 99+ Fly Line
There is a famous quote by Wyatt Earp, “Fast is fine, but accuracy is everything.” In fly fishing, accuracy is everything. The difference between success and failure is often measured in inches. All modern fly rods are powerful, but accuracy is the new frontier in design. Making an 80-foot cast in saltwater is prospecting. Making a forty-foot cast on the nose of a laid-up tarpon is fishing. The H3 brings a fundamental shift from flex profiles to a new frontier in accuracy and purpose-driven design. Helios 3F and 3D each offer uncompromising purpose. 3F is accuracy with finesse, a dry fly angler’s dream. 3D is accuracy with power at distance for pinpoint delivery of larger flies. The difference is taper and stiffness, but the design foundation of accuracy remains constant. The H3 is the pinnacle of purpose, designed to master the moment and meet the demands of accuracy on a spring creek with a 3F or a tarpon flat with a 3D.
www.orvis.com
Designed for today’s faster action fly rods, the ARC 99+ is a half line size heavier and features a more condensed taper than standard true-to-size fly lines. This additional weight and specialized taper design loads fast action rods easier, resulting in longer, more accurate casts. Built around our 6 percent low-stretch Response Core, the ARC 99+ incorporates the latest advancements in fly line design, including transition zones, a super high floating permanent Nano PTFE coating and a low-friction, grooved line profile. We call this ZNG Technology. This makes the ARC 99+ one of the longest casting, highest floating and easiest mending fly lines on the market today. 10
www.arcfishing.com NATIONAL I OCTOBER 2017 I
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 10
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
9/20/17 2:36 PM
By CAM Staff
O
ur grandfathers used old-school bamboo fly rods to create some of the greatest fishing stories of all time. That most of these stories took place on famous trout streams still influences what people think about bamboo’s place in fly fishing. Caleb Turner, of Turner Bamboo Fly Rods, has a different take on bamboo rods in the modern world. “Bamboo has a special place in the very heart of fly fishing, from the great western streams to the small streams of the Appalachians, but they don’t come to mind when people are talking the salt flats,” Caleb said. According to the Turners, there’s a misconception that there are no fast action bamboo fly rods, and that only the fastest action rods can be used in saltwater. Most rod makers and bamboo enthusiasts know this isn’t only untrue… it isn’t even the point.
“The feel found in bamboo rods is often confused with action for people picking up a bamboo rod for the first time,” Caleb said. “When they feel the action in the rod, they often over accelerate their forward cast causing them to lose energy in the line.” Caleb’s recommendation is to let the rod do the work, and to concentrate on technique. “It’s easier to feel when the rod is loaded with bamboo, and this really comes more into play for us on the flats than trout streams,” he said. What the Turners do differently than most other bamboo rod makers is cater to saltwater fly fishing. They are located in Mississippi right next to some of the most technical redfish flats on the Gulf Coast. “We design our saltwater fly rods with a fast action for stiff winds and quick-moving redfish that spook way more easily than their Louisiana counterparts,” Caleb said. With water the same color as the redfish, wind, and the need to have eyes of an Osprey, fly fishing the Mississippi Gulf Coast is more like bonefishing. “Bamboo gives us the action we need, the feel we need, and it’s able to load up at short distances but also extend a long cast to extremely wary redfish found around here.” Caleb said. “Tonkin cane grows in a 30-square-kilometer area in the Orient’s Sui River Valley. It is praised as the strongest species of bamboo with the greatest thickness of power fibers. These power fibers are what give bamboo rods what they have more than other material used in crafting fly rods, their touch. Despite what action you desire, bamboo rods offer a certain touch you just can’t get with anything else. If a rod is designed correctly, you can have all the action you need and still have that great feel. The rod lets you know when it’s loaded instead of having to figure out the timing for that individual rod.” In short, bamboo fly rods definitely have their place in modern performing fly rods. Accuracy, touch and presentation are things bamboo rod makers strive for in crafting their rods. If you get a hold of a quality rod, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by all the things it can do. For more information on bamboo fly rods or Turner Bamboo Fly Rods visit www.turnerflyrods.com or email caleb@turnerflyrods.com.
m t o o d fis e er FOR WORRY-FREE FISHING ALL YEAR
h
f
ONLY $149
BREAKDOWNS/OUT OF FUEL/JUMP STARTS/SOFT UNGROUNDINGS Have no worries on the water...TowBoatU.S. is there when you need help.
BoatUS.com/Towing 800-395-2628
•
Towing details can be found online at BoatUS.com/towing or by calling.
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 11
I
OCTOBER 2017
I
NATIONAL
11
9/20/17 2:36 PM
• La
x
LIST
a
d • L ax
l
was a dime-bright fish of only 6 or so iK e pounds that still had the power to get j o s, Ic the reel deep into its backing. There is no better way to begin a fishing journey than when it all comes together early on. We knew we would be experiencing yet another trip of a lifetime. With the sun only slightly hitting the horizon and a brief glimpse of darkness for what seems like only minutes, the days are filled with subtle takes of the fly, followed by sips of Brennivin, cast and repeat. We ended the trip in the same fashion as it started. Another sleek salmon peels line and leaps. At the end of the run, Raven dips the net and we release the fish to bid farewell for what is hopefully only another year until we return. With Raven being the pilot, Brian, Kyle and I explored areas that have been experienced by few. Targeting trophy fish in such a landscape with close friends only solidifies the need for one to explore, be bewildered and experience life events that shape you as a person. Iceland will leave your soul fulfilled but still wanting more.
a
C
asting into a pool where fish leap and dragons rise brings emotions that cannot be found in many places. From the etched lava landscape to the clean cold water, Iceland offers anglers a backdrop to a story that will always begin with the statement, “It was the trip of a lifetime.” With three trips in three consecutive years, I can use the all-too cliché fishing phrase, “I am hooked” on Iceland. Page after page can be written about the acrobatic Atlantic salmon, the headstrong pull of a sea-run brown trout, the rocky canyons, waterfalls, and the art of fishing a hitched tube-fly. There is so much that pulls an angler to Icelandic rivers. For the past three years, I have spent the end of July fishing the Laxa i Kjos, a smaller river in southwestern Iceland about an hour from the capital city, Reykjavik. The river allows an angler to experience much of what Icelandic topography has to offer. From the large pools in the coastal beats, where an angler can’t help but stare out toward the Atlantic Ocean, to the meandering turns of the pastoral meadow sections, and deep narrow-cut canyons that carve the hillside until you reach Thorufoss, the impassable falls, home to a famous scene from the popular series “Game of Thrones.” The landscape, at least to me, is secondary to those that accompany you on the journey. On this year’s trip, I was fortunate enough to return to the river with good friends: Brian, who has made the trip with me before; Kyle, a friend who would be experiencing this fabled land for the first time; and our guide Hrafn (Raven), who brings an entire new appreciation to the fly fishing guide world with a persona that is somewhat mythical, just like the waters we were wading in. Arriving in Iceland, most anglers have aspirations of watching a tube fly skate across the surface of crystal waters, witnessing the careful eat of the fly and the line going tight with the initial run of one of the fly world’s most sought after quarry, an Atlantic salmon. We were fortunate enough to be those anglers. The first fish of the trip was caught soon after arrival. It
BUCKET
nd
an
By Tony Fernandez
2017
a
iK e j o s, Ic
l
The Pull Of Icelandic Rivers
MUDHOLE.COM/SALT-KIT Build Your Own Custom Saltwater Rod With This Turnkey Kit 12
NATIONAL
I
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 12
OCTOBER 2017
I
(866) 790-RODS
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
9/20/17 2:36 PM
*BECAUSE THEY’RE SAFE IN THE CASE.
www.popticals.com
Defender
®
Annapolis Boat Show Savings on Over 14,000 Items 10/4/17 - 10/16/17!
NEVER BUY FLARES AGAIN!
ELECTRONIC FLARE SOS Distress Light Item 550696
• The only electronic flare that meets U.S. Coast Guard requirements • One time purchase - Never expires • The only alternative to traditional flares
Only $99.99
THE
BRANDS YOU WANT AND TRUST IN STOCK FOR LESS Over 50,000 items IN STOCK and Ready to Ship!
www.defender.com 800-628-8225
Most orders Placed by 4:30 et shiP the saMe day!
2017
FREE Catalog!
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM Coastal Angler Oct 2017.indd 1
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 13
I
OCTOBER 2017
I
NATIONAL
13
9/12/17 9:54 AM
9/20/17 2:36 PM
Center sp Publish a Fishing Magazine?
YOU CAN DO IT!
Y
ou can open and run your own fishing magazine. All you need is a little help and support. You truly can do it. You can leave the rat race. You can (and should) earn your money doing something that you are passionate about. You can (and should) love your work. That’s where Coastal Angler and The Angler Magazine’s franchise publishing system comes in. We have helped individuals just like you open and develop successful publications throughout the Continental U.S., The Bahamas, the Virgin Islands and even Costa Rica. If you love the outdoors and think you would be better suited running your own business than watching a clock, give us a call; we may very well have what you’ve been looking for.
fishing magazine but promoting the magazine to your local business community can be fun… even though it’s work. We would look forward to hearing from you and seeing if there’s a good fit for you and our magazine. It never hurts to look, so give us a call and maybe a new career in the fishing magazine industry is in your future.
Coastal Angler/ The Angler Magazine 321-777-2773 info@coastalanglermagazine.com
Our franchisees enjoy the freedom to manage their own time and, to a great extent, their incomes, as well. If you see being involved in your local fishing community as a job that you would truly enjoy then you owe it to yourself to check out our franchise opportunities. We’re looking for avid anglers who want to earn their living in the marine industry. Our franchise system is a great way to earn money doing what you love. Our training program and support system enables individuals with no prior publishing experience to publish viable and profitable localized editions of the magazine and to build sustainable careers in publishing. Yes, there is some sales effort involved in running your own
Come Join Our Franchise Team! NEW ENGLAND
FREE Brown Trou t
on the Move
Icelandic
Salmon Adve
nture
Local
Fishing Repo rts Catch Phot os News & Even ts
FREE
PHOTO COURTE
VOLUME
SY OF ANDY
23 • ISSUE
DELLIVENERI
272
F R A N C H I S E 1017_TAM
_CVR.indd
TH EA NG
LER MA
O P P O R T U N I T I E S
1
MID-ATLANTIC • New Jersey • Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire (the entire state) • Maine (the entire state) • Western Massachusetts FLORIDA • Gloucester, MA • Okeechobee, FL • Cape Cod, MA • Miami, FL GREAT LAKES
SOUTHEAST
• Milwaukee, WI • Detroit, MI • Cleveland, OH • The Adirondacks, NY
• Raleigh, NC • Southwest Georgia • Eastern Tennessee • Western Tennessee • Kentucky
G.C OM
A V A I L A B L E
OCTOBER W O R L 2017 D W I D E
Outdoor Apparel
9/17/17
3:58 PM
32nd Annual Palm Beach International Boat Show
March 23-26
Bahamas
Tuna Run
Local ts Fishing Repor Catch Photos News & Events PHOTO COURTESY VOLUME 22
.COM E MAG R L D W I D GLER B L E W O LAN A V A I L A COAOSTA N I T I E S P P O R T U
MARCH 2017
OF 'TEAM FINSTER'
• ISSUE 266
I S E F R A N C H
AM 2/10/17 9:34
.indd 4
0317_CAM_CVR
GULF COAST • Baton Rouge, LA • Lafayette, LA • Corpus Christi, TX • Austin, TX
FOR MORE INFORMATION: CALL (321) 777-2773 OR EMAIL INFO@COASTALANGLERMAGAZINE.COM
14
NATIONAL
I
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 14
OCTOBER 2017
I
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
9/20/17 2:36 PM
TIPS FROM A PRO
SOUTHEAST
C
BRANDON LESTER
always catch them on a drop shot. The key to the drop shot is to watch your electronics. If I note the fish are not right on the bottom with my Raymarine units, I make my leader up to 20 inches long so it sits right in their face. The rod I build for the drop shot is the MHX EPS-81MLXF. It is a 6’9” medium-light power with an extra-fast tip. I spool it with 10-pound Vicious No-Fade braid and an 8-pound fluorocarbon leader. I prefer a wacky-rigged, 6” MB Fat Finesse Worm from X-Zone, using a 1/4 to 3/8 drop shot weight and a Mustad Titan-X Wacky Neko hook. If the water has at least a couple feet of visibility, you can save yourself some time by utilizing an underwater camera. Knowing the fish down there are bass and not catfish really helps. This year I switched over to an Aqua Vu camera that displays on my Raymarine unit. Seeing is believing, let me tell you!
ome late summer, you just don’t see megaschools on the offshore ledges and dropoffs. The fish have been pounded on all summer, and with a few cooler nights the fish will head to grass, schooling on top and chasing shad. What were once 50-fish schools might now just be eight to 10 fish. These fish can be hard to catch, but as the numbers of deep fishermen dwindle, the more apt the fish will be to bite. The community holes are the places to begin looking. Community holes earn that reputation because fish live there. It is rare for all the fish from a mega-school to up and leave, so chances are you’ll still be able to catch a few. If they’re not right on the main part of the community hole, look for transition areas leading to where the shad will be in fall. A lot of times you just have to get out there with the graph and hunt for them. You can also fish for them. There are random groups of fish scattered up and down ledges. Anglers who spend a lot of time graphing will miss these roaming fish. While covering water by moving down a ledge, you are likely to run into some. If I am able to locate a small school with my electronics, my first choice is a 12-inch worm Texas rigged on a ½-ounce weight. I use 14- to 17-pound Vicious fluorocarbon. I enjoy this technique so much that I helped design the perfect hook for it. The Mustad 2X Big Bite hook in 5/0 or 6/0 is perfect for a 12-inch worm. It has a longer shank, which helps with hook-up percentage. I’ve found it is also the perfect hook for my X-Zone Center Stick. I use the MHX EPS-86MHF baitcast rod from Mud Hole Custom Tackle. It is a 7’ 2”, medium-heavy power. It took me an hour and forty-five minutes to build this rod. It is easy and fun to Get more tips from Lester at knock them out. A ½-ounce War Eagle jigging spoon and a big crankbait like a Strike King 6XD will be the other baits I’ll throw. And you can Airline_CoastalAnglerAd_3-2016_Layout 1 3/18/16 1:07 PM Page 1
FISHINGMAGAZINE.FISHING
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CANGL_SE1-SE4.indd 1
OCTOBER 2017
SOUTHEAST
1
9/19/17 11:38 AM
#GETOUTHERE
HANDS DOWN, THE BEST GAME IN TOWN $300
TWO FLY FREE
Fuel Credit
From Nassau
Whether your game is stalking gin-clear flats for the silvery-flash of bonefish or looking to pick a fight with a record setting marlin, the Out Islands of The Bahamas is home to the greatest fishing experiences in the world. And with two great offers, it’s never been easier to #GetOutHere.* Discover our latest specials like our Air and Fuel Credits at OutIslandsAnglers.com
ABACOS
ACKLINS
ANDROS
BERRY ISLANDS
BIMINI
CAT ISLAND
CROOKED ISLAND ELEUTHERA
EXUMAS
HARBOUR ISLAND
LONG ISLAND
SAN SALVADOR
*Book a 4-6 night stay and receive one free round-trip airfare or a 7-night or longer stay and receive up to two round-trip airfares. Free round-trip airfare only for flights originating/ending in Nassau. Offer for new air-inclusive bookings and passengers on same itinerary. One instant $300 fuel credit per stay at a certified and participating marina combined with a 4-night minimum consecutive stay. All offers available for stays at participating BOIPB member hotels. Not combinable with any other credit promotions. These offers are subject to availability and may be changed or cancelled at any time. Please visit OutIslandsAnglers.com for full terms and conditions.
2
SOUTHEAST
CANGL_SE1-SE4.indd 2
OCTOBER 2017
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
9/19/17 11:38 AM
NORTH CAROLINA
Follow The Bait For Fall Bass
By TAM Staff • Photo courtesy of Jake Davis
T
he days are shorter. The nights are cooler. Cold fronts are sweeping in, and bass are in the transition that brings some of the best fishing of the year. For tournament anglers or weekend warriors, the fall feed-up is one of the most exciting times to be on the water. Whether it’s a large reservoir or the backyard bass pond, fish are on the move. They’ve left the deep-water structure where they were schooled up all summer, and they’re tailing baitfish into the creeks and shallows. Catching bass right now is less about patterning structure and more about finding bait than it is at any other time of year. Of course baitfish, even on the move, will often relate to some type of structure or cover. Fall fishing is very similar to what you’ll find in the spring for bass that are in pre- and post-spawn patterns. The bass and baitfish use the same channels and ledges to migrate as they did in spring. On the big lakes, you’ll find them by graphing the mouths of the creeks and then moving in as the fish progress back to the secondary points and finally the backs of the creeks. On a pond, go where you see the bait. It could be on that prominent drop off the flats or just off the creek channel. The key here is finding the shad, or
whatever the dominant bait species is where you fish. Bass have one thing in mind, and that is to pack on as much weight as possible. They’ll require energy for the cold months ahead and to fuel the production of eggs and sperm for the spawn on the other end of winter. It’s a fun time of year to fish. Get on the trolling motor or walk the banks with your favorite fast-moving baits. You can cover a lot of water with crankbaits, spinnerbaits and even buzzbaits to prospect available cover like docks, laydowns, brush and stumps. Or maybe the bait is up in the grass. There’s nothing more fun than working a swim jig or fluke in and along the grass edges. No matter what you do, keep your favorite jerkbait, topwater walking bait or swimbait easily accessible. When fleeing baitfish scatter around a cove and bass are busting on top, you’ll want to have something you can throw a long way to put yourself in the action. There’s no secret to patterning bass this time of year. Find the baitfish, and the predatory fish will be with them. This is generally not a time to slow down and dissect structure. Fan casting an area that is holding baitfish can result in fast action.
HELP RESTORE OUR BATTLESHIP! TEXT "BATTLESHIP" to 41444
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CANGL_NC1-NC4.indd 1
OCTOBER 2017
NORTH CAROLINA 1
9/19/17 10:38 AM
SUZUKI MAKES IT
EASY AS
1-2-3
Make your best Fall Boat Show deal on a new Suzuki outboard from 25 to 300 horsepower and take advantage of all three special Suzuki offers. See your Suzuki Marine dealer today and get on the water with a powerful, reliable new Suzuki.
REPOWER FINANCE
1.
2.
Six Years of Protection at no extra charge on all new outboards 25 to 300 HP.
Cash Rebates on select models. See your dealer for details.
3. Rates as low as 5.99% on new Suzuki outboards (OAC).*
Gimme Six Extended Protection promo is applicable to new Suzuki Outboard Motors from 25 to 300 HP in inventory which are sold and delivered to buyer between 9/01/17 and 12/31/17 in accordance with the promotion by a Participating Authorized Suzuki Marine dealer in the continental US and Alaska to a purchasing customer who resides in the continental US or Alaska. Customer should expect to receive an acknowledgement letter and full copy of contract including terms, conditions and wallet card from Suzuki Extended Protection within 90 days of purchase. If an acknowledgement letter is not received in time period stated, contact Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. – Marine Marketing via email: marinepromo@suz.com. The Gimme Six Promotion is available for pleasure use only, and is not redeemable for cash. Cash Rebates apply to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki Outboard Motors made between 9/01/17 and 12/31/17. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine.com. Customer and participating Dealer must fill out the appropriate rebate form at time of sale. Cash rebate will be applied against the original dealer invoice (Suzuki will credit Dealer parts account). There are no model substitutions, benefit substitutions, rain checks, or extensions. Suzuki reserves the right to change or cancel these promotions at any time without notice or obligation. * Financing offers available through Synchrony Retail Finance. As low as 5.99% APR financing for 60 months on new and unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors. Subject to credit approval. Not all buyers will qualify. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. $19.99/month per $1,000 financed for 60 months is based on 5.99% APR. Hypothetical figures used in calculation; your actual monthly payment may differ based on financing terms, credit tier qualification, accessories or other factors such as down payment and fees. Offer effective on new, unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors purchased from a participating authorized Suzuki dealer between 9/01/17 and 12/31/17. “Gimme Six”, the Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2017 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.
SZ_Q4Promo_2Col.indd 1
2 NORTH CAROLINA
CANGL_NC1-NC4.indd 2
OCTOBER 2017
9/8/17 11:53 AM
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
9/19/17 10:38 AM
BLUE RIDGE Big Snowbird Creek, Graham County: Oct. 10 & Nov. 16 Fires Creek, Clay County: Oct. 5 & Nov. 13 Upper Nantahala, Macon County: Oct. 9 & Nov. 2 Upper Tuckasegee, Jackson County: Oct. 3/4 & Nov. 8/15 Lower Tuckasegee, Swain County: Oct. 5 & Nov. 6 Obviously, the closer you can schedule your fishing trip to the stocking dates, the easier it is to put lots of fish in the net. The next stockings will occur in March, April and May. WHAT FLIES TO FISH Egg patterns, Y2K patterns and streamers work well close to the stocking dates. Trout will hit just about anything right after being stocked in the river. As it gets later in the month, they become more challenging to catch. Good fall-back flies include black, olive and white Woolly Buggers, Pat’s Rubber Legs and a variety of nymphs including Prince Nymphs and Pheasant Tails. Watch for dry fly hatches of October caddis, blue wing olives and Cahills.
DELAYED HARVEST TROUT SEASON IS ON By Ken Kastorff
F
all is here, and we are excited about the delayed harvest trout fishing season. We are fortunate to have a wide variety of delayed harvest streams to choose from here in Western North Carolina. WHERE TO GO If you are looking for small remote streams to wade fish, where you don’t have to worry about scheduled releases, then Big Snowbird Creek or Fires Creek are perfect destinations. If you are looking for easier access wading, then the upper Nantahala River would be a good option. One of the more popular rivers to wade fish is the upper Tuckasegee. Be aware that flows can change rapidly on this river. It is not a good place to find yourself caught mid stream in waders with the water rising. It is also oft times very crowded and is one of the rivers I avoid on weekends. The lower Tuckasegee can be much more of a challenge to wade fish because of higher flows but is generally not as crowded. If wading is not your cup of tea, then some of the best winter delayed harvest float fishing trips can be enjoyed on both the upper and lower Tuckasegee River. WHEN TO GO Here is a list of the upcoming delayed harvest stocking schedules for the streams in Western Carolina.
Ken Kastorff owns of Endless River Adventures, an outfitter located on the Nantahala River. For information, see endlessriveradventures.com or call 800-224-7238.
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CANGL_BL1-BL4.indd 1
OCTOBER 2017
BLUE RIDGE
1
9/18/17 4:16 PM
The best & only full-service fly shop located just a few miles from the wild & scenic Chattooga & Chauga Rivers. 6832-A HIGHLANDS HWY., MOUNTAIN REST, SC OPEN TUESDAY - SATURDAY 7:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. & SUNDAY 7:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M.
Book the Fishing Trip of a Lifetime in the Beautiful Mountains of North Georgia and Western North Carolina with the Area’s Top Rated Guide Service. Fish with the Pros and Get Featured in The Angler Magazine
Serving Lakes Nottely, Hiawassee, Chatuge, Blue Ridge and more. We run trips 365 days a year. Book your trip now!
828-361-2021 www.bigolfish.com
2
BLUE RIDGE
CANGL_BL1-BL4.indd 2
OCTOBER 2017
864.638.2806
www.chattoogariverflyshop.com www.crflyshop.myshopify.com
Full & Half Day Guided Trips • Half Day Small Lake Guided Trips Rods, Reels, Flies, Nets & Vests • Packs & Wading Equipment Fishing Apparel & Hats • Fly Tying Supplies & Classes Equipment Rentals • Fly Fishing Presentations
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
9/18/17 4:16 PM
S E C T I O N S Lake Hickory & Rhodhiss Lake Lake Norman/Cornelius/Denver/ Mooresville/Mountain Island Lake Charlotte Metro Lake Wylie/Rock Hill High Rock/Tuckertown/ Badin/Tillery Lakes/The Falls Trout Deer
Many thanks to our advertisers and local writers. We would also like to encourage any new local writers to come on board. Please continue to send us your stories and photographs for publication in The Angler Magazine. Cooler weather is on it’s way!
Relax and enjoy!
Mark & Haley Alberghini Publishers
CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT Mark Alberghini, mark@theanglermagazine.com, 704-651-1934 | Haley Alberghini, haley@theanglermagazine.com, 704-781-5387
Bass Pro Shops 8181 Concord Mills Blvd. Concord, NC 28027 704-979-2200
Your Adventure . . .
STARTS HERE!
www.basspro.com 2 CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT
OCTOBER 2017
• Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World / Concord Mills Mall has been voted the number 1 tourist destination in North Carolina • Bass Pro Shops is the leading hunting, marine, boating and fishing supply outfitter in North Carolina. • We feature a wide variety of outdoor gear, ATV’s and Tracker Boats. • Saltwater or freshwater fishing gear, boating supplies, men’s, ladies and kid’s apparel, sunglasses, and more • Visit our shooting arcade and our 23,000 gallon aquarium. • Over 150,000 sq ft of shopping fun and wildlife dioramas that are a must see for every customer. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM
To
T
is tou during surfac Of light c throug may p section tidal w Sur when doesn action when spot m but ca produ Bec and co spots” action flats major (tree l piers, also li Points oppor deep Explo qualit topwa Spo or nea summ newly sun “l a disti their spotte ft. con they fi return Str thoug sunset cloudy
Topwater Opportunities – Summer and FALL
T
he first rule of thumb for fishing close to the surface is low light conditions are optimal. Most predatory fish look and feed upwards, and they don’t have eyelids or sunglasses. Bright light is tough on their big eyes. Quickly warming surface temperatures during sunny days adds to the predators’ reluctance to come to the surface. Of course there are exceptions to the early or late premise. Low light conditions on rainy/cloudy days allow more surface feeding throughout the day. Areas that experience periods of notable current may produce topwater action in bright daylight. Examples include river sections when water is moved through freshwater impoundments, and tidal waters at the coast. Surface feeding is easiest to detect when conditions are still, but wind doesn’t necessarily stop topwater action. It’s just much harder to see when it’s windy. Ideally one likes to spot multiple fish breaking the surface, but casting to individual swirls can be productive if the cast is made quickly. Because fish use underwater structure and cover to feed efficiently, top “likely spots” for summer and fall topwater action are points, offshore humps, and flats - especially those close to a river or major creek channels. Banks with cover (tree laps, stumps, rocks, or vegetation), piers, floating docks, bridge pilings are also likely candidates for a topwater bite. Points and humps provide great ambush opportunities, and solid cover provides deep shade and slightly cooler water. Explosive strikes can be elicited from quality bass even in bright sunlight when topwaters are cast into the shady stretches. Spotted bass in particular chase bait on or near the surface in bright conditions. In summer and fall the spots are keying on small, newly hatched shad and herring. The bright sun “lights up” these small fish and provides a distinct silhouette of the bait school. With their keen eyes and fast swimming ability, spotted bass are comfortable roaming 15-30 ft. contours around points and humps. When they find bait over them, they quickly rush to the surface to feed then return to the safety of deeper water, having exerted minimal energy. Striped bass and hybrids also have proclivities for surface feeding, though they usually prefer the lower light periods at sunrise and sunset. And they often feed near the surface throughout low light, cloudy days. They are also nocturnal feeders, taking advantage of
surface feeding opportunities at night. There are many choices when it comes to choosing a topwater lure. “Matching the hatch” is a good place to start. Be sure to balance your lure selection against the size of the primary forage. Big surface baits are not always better. Chrome or white sided, floating minnow shaped lures with black or blue backs are proven designs, in both the one piece or broken-back models. Other options include stick baits like spooks and topdogs, poppers, and buzz baits. Even spinner baits, bucktails and swim baits can be fished across the surface. Bass, stripers, hybrids and saltwater species like red drum and speckled trout are all susceptible to these offerings. When fishing close to the shore, particularly around good cover, imitations of frogs, mice and other small critters excite quality fish looking for a substantial meal. When fishing lures on top, or anytime for that matter, think in terms of “quiet baits vs. loud baits”. In still conditions, subtle presentations including small sizes, muted colors, and slower retrieves work well. Letting a lure sit still on the surface for prolonged periods can be effective. In windy or lower light conditions larger profiles, darker colors, and more vibration or sound may be needed to entice the fish to bite. Dark colors also provide the best profile contrast against the night sky. Topwater action occurs throughout the year, but summer and fall present some of the best opportunities to fish these lures. Identify your own “likely spots” on your topo map and go fish them to build your own topwater hot spots circuit. Having a small assortment of topwater lures ready is prudent as the surface blitzes may be brief. Being prepared always produces more Fish On! By Capt. Craig Price Photo: Capt. Craig Price with a citation red drum caught on a zara spook jr. in 4 ft. of water – Lower Neuse River NC.
LAKE HICKORY FORECAST
A
s water temperatures cool through September, look for stripers early and late near points, humps, and flats from mid-lake to the Oxford Dam. Free lined live herring or gizzard shad in 15-30 ft. of water are most effective. The bite dies off as during the middle of the day. Schools of largemouth bass may be found in these same locales. If relatively warm weather persists, stripers may still be found in the upper river section when the water is moving. Free lined and downrigged live herring or medium-large shad are most effective. –Capt. Craig Price, Fish On! Guide Service, PO Box 1623, Denver, NC 28037 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM
OCTOBER 2017
CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT 3
O Keith Hudson with a 4.75-pound largemouth caught on a 3/8-ounce white Boogerman buzzbait.
EXPLOSIVE FALL
Topwater Buzzbait Bass
ver the years, I have noticed that most bass anglers agree there is nothing more exciting than watching the water explode in response to the action of a topwater lure. Enticing a surface strike requires you to get their attention. Among topwater lures, few, if any, come close to creating the attention and surface disturbance as the buzzbait. An Assassinator or Boogerman buzzbait is just the ticket. The unique splashing, sputtering and gurgling commotion created by a buzzbait is very hard to resist, even for a bass that is being lazy. Here are some pointers to help improve your strike and hook-up percentages with a buzzbait. As with any lure, successful bass catching requires us to make adjustments in our presentation until we hit the most responsive technique. Employing a buzzbait is no different. I prefer 3/8-ounce or 1/2 -ounce buzzbaits made of high quality materials that can take a beating from the largest of fish and hold together. Worn-in lures tend to produce a squeaky noise, which I believe gives the lures added appeal. One of the noise-enhancing modifications I like to make is to bend the blade arm slightly downward so the blade ticks the shaft or head as it rotates. Another is to drill several holes in the blade so that it emits a bubble trail as it moves across the water. Learning to present your lure properly is simply a matter of practice and trial and error each day you’re on the water. One day it may be a fast “burn” retrieve, and the next it might be just fast enough to keep the lure chugging along the surface of the water. It is important to engage your reel just before the lure hits the water. Doing so removes any slack from your line and allows you to start your retrieve before the bait has a chance to sink. During the retrieve, I hold my rod tip up which keeps the bait in proper contact with the water but not so high as to lift the bait from the water or prevent me from generating a solid hook set. Steer the bait into objects such as logs, lily pads, docks or rocks. Some of the best action can be just as the bait deflects off an object. As the bait approaches the boat, I gradually lower my rod tip, thereby allowing the bait to maintain proper contact with the water. Use caution in the last 10 feet of your retrieve. Fish will sometimes follow your lure all the way back to the boat and try to take it from you at the last minute. It’s always a good idea to figure eight your lure just prior to losing contact with the water. With a buzzbait, proper equipment is crucial for a good retrieve. I use 7-foot to 7-foot, 6-inch heavy-action Duckett Micro Magic rods with either a 6.4.1 or 7.1.1 LEW’s Speed Reels spooled with 50- to 65-pound test Vicious braid. Having a fast reel with a strong rod and line is a must when fishing buzzbaits. For colors, I prefer white and black/red best in clear water. In stained water, I tie on a combination chartreuse/white, chartreuse/blue or the famed Guntersville red. My color choice is usually predicated on the light conditions, water clarity and time of the year. One other aspect that can make a huge difference is the “Delta Blade” or “Prop,” as many know that varying the color from polished aluminum to a black or gold can make all the difference in your fishing trip. Lastly, let’s talk lure make-up of the Boogerman and Assassinator baits. Both are custom made in the USA with premium materials. The heads are turned to the side, which adds lift and allows the lure to be worked slower on the surface. With the Assassinator, the primary wire has a 45-degree bend, which provides for a better hook-up ratio. The Boogerman has to be one of the noisiest buzzbaits on the water. By adjusting the blade to strike the head of the lure, you can draw bass from depths of 6 feet or deeper in the thickest of cover. By Capt. Jake Davis
If you have any questions drop me a line at msbassguide@comcast.net or check out my website at www.midsouthbassguide.com. Better yet, let’s go fishin’. Give me a call at (615) 613-2382 to reserve your day on the lake.
4 CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT
OCTOBER 2017
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM
704-663-9700 | FourSeasonsLKN.com
Outdoor Furniture
South Sea Rattan Collections Seaside Casual Telescope Casual Furniture DWL Garden Furniture Indoor/Outdoor Patio Furniture Outdoor Fireplaces Hammocks
Man Cave & Accessories L.A. Spas Spa Hot Tubs Swim Hot Tubs Jacuzzis DuraSport Strong Spa & Swim Spa
Spa / Hot Tubs
Olhausen & Presidential Billiards Poker Tables ShuffleBoards Ping Pong Foosball Tables Dartboards Arcade & Pinball Game Room Accessories
Billiards / Game Rooms NFL, NHL, MLB, NBA Products Pool Tables Recliners Movie Theater Sofas And More!
973 RIVER HWY | MOORESVILLE,NC 28117 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM
OCTOBER 2017
CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT 5
By Capt. Capt. Tim Cutting
Suspended Animation
I
love a suspending jerkbait. They are sometimes called stickbaits or lipped divers, and spring is my absolute favorite time of the year to throw these awesome minnow imitators. I have caught an extremely wide variety of freshwater and saltwater fish on these baits. Speckled trout, snook and redfish seem especially attracted to these plugs on the salty side, and largemouth, smallmouth and striped bass will crush this bait in the sweet water. Year-round, with a couple of twitches and a pause, this bait will catch fish. With the right situation, and a couple of fine-tuning tricks, this bait can be downright deadly during the spring. Generally clear water and at least 6 feet of depth are two components I look for. Most suspending jerkbaits suspend at or around 4 to 6 feet. Beating the banks or paralleling the shoreline will both work, although I prefer to throw parallel, keeping the bait in the strike zone longer. Areas that have deep-water access nearby are a plus, as is structure. Docks,
Le
rocks, rip-rap, shell, timber, points and bridge pilings are all quality targets. Don’t overlook transition spots that are not nearly as obvious such as drop offs, places where lee meets wind, grass meets sand, coves, rips and color changes. The real key to this bait is the action that is imparted. This bait needs to be twitched or jerked on a slack line to impart a side-to-side motion while remaining in a small zone at rest. Avoid tracking with long pulls or steady retrieves. Usually one, two or even three small twitches will work. Let the fish tell you how much or how hard a twitch is needed. At times, a couple of small twitches gets it done, while other days a few violent snaps will trigger the bite. Regardless of the action, the pause after each set of twitches or jerks is critical. This may be a two-second pause or even up to five or 10 seconds. As a rule, I start off with three seconds and vary it from there. Lure manufacturers in the last 10 years have incorporated different depth capabilities in suspending baits, so depending on your area you might need to experiment a little. All of these baits can be tuned by adding sticky weights, different hook sizes, speed clips and a variety of other buoyancy changing devices. Some anglers like the bait to suspend completely horizontal, while others like nose or tail down. One of the little known techniques is to alter the bait so it actually sinks at a slow rate instead of suspending. These plugs come in array of sizes in a multitude of colors, from many top-notch lure companies. Most of the lengths vary between 3 and 5 inches, and I usually go with those around 4 ½ inches long. As for color, I’ve always agreed that they are made for fishermen, not fish… but something about blue back/orange belly drives me wild.
704-799-2912
5% Discount for:
704-663-9639
Military Fire Police Nascar
Monday-Saturday: 9:00am- 8:00pm Sunday: 12:00pm- 5:00pm
Over
M
www.carolinafishingtackle.com Carolina Fishing Tackle LLC has the largest selection for all your fishing needs. We carry a full line of fishing products featuring custom baits and JDM. Visit our website for a complete line of products and browse our fishing tackle sorted by manufacturer and category! 1158-A River Hwy, Mooresville, NC 28117 (Behind Big Daddy’s)
6 CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT
OCTOBER 2017
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM
Ma
Pr prov rep Po
www.marinemax.com
Let Water Change Your Life
210 FSH Sport | Starting at $44,499
Over 4-Decades–Proudly Serving the Lake Wylie Boating Community
MarineMax Hall Marine Lake Wylie 310 Blucher Circle, Lake Wylie, SC 29710
When the water calls, let MarineMax deliver all of boating’s magical moments. We’re a community of boaters, United
(803) 831-2101
by Water, ready to guide your journey.
Charlotte and Lake Norman’s Premiere Boating Resource
MarineMax Hall Marine Lake Norman
Whether you’re an experienced boater or
9209 Westmoreland Road, Cornelius, NC 28031
a first-timer, we’ll get you on the water,
(704) 892-9676
creating fun and great memories.
Premiere full service boating stores known for providing unparalleled personal customer service representing quality brands like Sea Ray, Harris Pontoons, Scout Boats and Yamaha Jet Boats.
U
N
I
T
E
D
B
210 FSH Sport Features
Seating Capacity: 10 persons/2250 lbs • Fuel Capacity: 50 gal • Length 21’ 3” • Dry Weight 3003 lbs • Beam: 8’ 6” • Engine: Twin TR-1 High Output Yamaha Marine Engine
Y
OCTOBER W A T 2017 E
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM
R
CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT 7
LAKE NORMAN FORECAST
S
potted and hybrid striped bass will be surface feeding off main channels and back coves above and below the Highway 150 Bridge. Long points that extend well into the lake are the areas most frequented by anglers searching for hungry bass. The Reed Creek arm of Lake Norman, south from The New Stutts Landing to the confluence of the Catawba River, is among the most popular area for surface feeding action. The mouth of Ramsey Creek and the islands north of the State Park are other areas where significant surface feeding will occur on most October mornings. Along with the bass, crappie, catfish and perch will also move to shallower water, which makes them easier to catch. Mountain Creek is a popular area for crappie. Minnows, “dunked” around brush piles or near deep water boat docks, will produce nice stringers of this popular pan fish. Note: The daily creel limit is twenty crappies per angler per day, with an 8” minimum. October’s weather can be summer-like one day and feel like winter the next. Fishing is best during low pressure and rainy periods that precede a cold front. If your schedule is flexible, plan to fish before the weather clears. It’s a great month to take a child fishing. See you out there! Capt. Gus Gustafson of Lake Norman Ventures, Inc. is an Outdoor Columnist and a full time Professional Fishing Guide on Lake Norman, NC. Visit his web site, www.Fishingwithgus.com or call 704-617-6812.
FISH TALK–FISHIN’ WITH CAPT. GUS!
E
very sport has a language of its own and bass fishing is no different. Some of the terminology and slang used by bass anglers is explained below: Lunker Lunker is a word used frequently to describe a very large bass. Depending on location, a lunker can weigh from four to twenty pounds. Leaping Lunker This is a slang term for a very large bass that jumps from the water in an attempt to throw the hook. The fact that a bass leaps high, and shakes its head violently, is one of the biggest reasons the sport of bass fishing is so popular. Black Bass Black bass are the most revered species of freshwater fish. Three species common in North Carolina are: the largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass. Largemouth and spots are caught in Lake Norman; smallmouth bass live in mountain lakes and rivers. Bedding The male bass makes a nest in shallow water by swishing his tail to clear the silt on the lake bottom. The round, light-colored clearing that forms, is the nest where the female deposits her eggs. Fishermen search out these bass beds and cast lures to tempt the fish to strike. Size Limit The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) determines the minimum length of fish, in inches, that a fish must measure in order to keep. For black bass, the statewide limit is generally fourteen inches. Creel Limit A creel is a small wicker basket used to hold fish. Fish are dropped into an opening at the top of the basket. A creel limit is the number of one species of fish that can be kept per angler per day. The creel limit of black bass is a combination of five largemouth, smallmouth and/or spotted.
BOAT COVERS Unlimited,Inc
m Fishing Line The string-like material used to connect the fish hook to the rod and reel. Monofilament line is, by far, the most popular. It is made from a single strand of plastic and is available in various lengths and breaking strengths (pound test). Braided (spider line), a multi-strand line, is fast becoming the line of choice for bass anglers. It stretches very little and is thinner in diameter, while comparable in strength to monofilament line. Bass Fishing Lures There are several main categories of bass lures. • Top Water - Lures that float or swim on the surface and make noise to attract the attention of the fish. • Swim Baits - Lures that swim, suspend or dive, when jerked, at various depths in the water column. • Bottom Bouncers - Lures that bounce, bump or float on or near the bottom. Soft plastic worms, buck tails and jigging spoons are popular with local fishermen. • Popular Lures • Buzz Bait - A top-water lure with blades that spin when pulled through the water. • Crank Bait - A lure with a plastic lip that swims to a specific depth when retrieved. The larger the lip, the deeper it swims. • Soft Plastics - Any type of worm, lizard, or minnow look-alike made of plastic. Soft plastics come in countless colors, shapes, sizes and flavors. • Tackle Box - Usually a plastic box designed to hold fishing lures. The box is semi-water proof and small enough to be transported and stowed in a boat. Bass Boat Usually a sixteen to twenty-one-foot boat designed primarily for bass fishing. This low sided and very sleek vessel is equipped with pedestal seats, state of the art electronics, a foot operated electric trolling motor and a large outboard motor to quickly take the fishermen to the next fishing hole. Trolling Motor A small motor, usually mounted on the bow of the boat, and controlled by the foot of the angler sitting on the forward pedestal seat. Trolling motors are operated by one, two or three, twelve-volt batteries. An electric motor is very quiet and maneuverable. It allows fishermen to get within easy casting distance of fish without scaring them away. Power Pole A hydraulic device that holds the boat in place in shallow water without dropping an anchor. The power pole is mounted on the stern of the boat, away from the angler casting from the bow. Power poles cost upwards of three thousand dollars, but anglers believe the pole’s ease of operation makes the cost worthwhile. Bait Casting Tackle A fishing rod and reel used by bass fishermen who want to cast with accuracy and have the cranking power to pull a trophy bass out of heavy cover. Unlike the push button, spin casting reels which do not tangle, a bait casting reel will snarl (backlash), if not used properly. Spinning Tackle The most popular rod and reel combination used by bass fishermen. The line spins off a fixed spool effortlessly, and allows for long, tangle-free casts when using relatively light lures. Terminal Tackle The hooks, swivels, weights, floats and miscellaneous other items needed to catch fish. Landing Net A hoop shaped net attached to a long handle that is used to land bass and other fish. Netting material varies, but fish-friendly rubber netting is gaining popularity. Unlike monofilament or nets made of cord, rubber nets do not bruise fish or rub away the slime. Rubber landing nets are fishermen friendly, as well, since hooks do not tangle in the webbing.
w
S v
BOAT COVERS BOAT COVERS Unlimited,Inc
Unlimited,Inc
CUSTOM BOAT COVERS . BIMINI TOPS . ENCLOSURES . REPAIRS BOAT DETAILING . UPHOLSTERY . BOTTOM PAINT
FULL COVER WITH SKIRT
BOAT ENCLOSURES
SNAP
SKIRTS 1124 River Hwy • Mooresville, NC • 704-663-3056 www.boatcoversdirect.com
1124 River Hwy . Mooresville, NC
8 CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT 2017 (704)OCTOBER 663-3056
Tips from Capt. Gus Adjust the line drag before every fishing trip. This is particularly important when fishing for big bass, stripers and catfish. They will stretch the line to its breaking point, so set the drag to about half of the line’s breaking strength.
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM
CUSTOM BOAT COVERS . BIMINI TOPS . ENCLOSURES . REPAIRS . ENCLOSURES . REPAIRS . .UPHOLSTERY . BOTTOM CUSTOMBOAT BOAT COVERS BIMINI TOPS www.boatcoversdirect.com DETAILING PAINT
. UPHOLSTERY . BOAT DETAILING LIKE US ON FACEBOOK! BOTTOM PAINT
7
w
We have the latest Scarab, Four Winns, and Sea-Doo models available, along with many more popular brands
hook r. It is hs and line, is and is e.
Restaurant & Oyster Bar SINCE
1974
Open Daily @ 430pm Salad Bar Weekly Specials Oyster Bar
oise to
various
ear the opular
hrough
h when
made of avors. es. The stowed
marily edestal r and a hole. e boat, al seat. es. An to get
Get Yours while they last! Stop in to our store today to view our extensive selection
Phone: 704.827.4144
n who hy bass do not
aneous
s used rubber f cord, ets are
This is . They of the
and All Brands Available! At Norman Tire and Auto, we want to be your go-to auto repair and tire specialist. We are a locally owned and a family operated small business. We will earn your trust and always appreciate your business.
hallow tern of pwards eration
by bass r long,
704.663.4242 // www.bigdaddysoflakenorman.com
Fax: 704.827.4944
19335 H.M. Junker Dr. Cornelius, NC 28031
704-896-6022 www.lakenormanpowersports.com
Monday - Friday: 7:30am - 5:30pm Saturday: 8:00am - 12:00pm Sunday: Closed
normantireandauto@yahoo.com Our service technicians have the experience and training to tackle the toughest repairs and we have ASE Master Certified Mechanics. We can handle everything from a simple tire repair to an engine rebuild.
.
7654 Hwy 73 Denver, NC (in old fire station)
normantireandauto.com
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM
OCTOBER 2017
CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT 9
The Bass Fishing Dropper Rig I
nshore saltwater anglers and freshwater fly fishermen already know the value of fishing a lure on the surface with another suspended beneath. The bass fishing crowd can also take advantage of this technique. The rush of visible and often explosive surface strikes is undeniable. Topwater baits can also be more effective than sub-surface offerings in certain situations such as mayfly hatches, baitfish spawns and when fish are actively chasing bait on top. Walkthe-dog style baits are deadly, and popping or chugging baits can call fish up when they’re already in the feeding mood. But what if you’re in a situation where bass seem to be snubbing your topwater offerings even though you know they’re there and feeding? Take a page from the book of saltwater anglers fly fishers, and employ a tactic similar to those used for redfish and freshwater trout. A popping cork trailed by either live shrimp or a softplastic with a jig head is a go-to redfish rig. Fishing a dry fly on the surface with a dropper nymph subsurface is a standard rig for fly fishermen. Guess what, it works on largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass, too. Don’t even clip off the popper you had tied on. You were
probably fishing it on 8- to 10-pound line. Tie about a 2-foot fluorocarbon leader of the same test off the rear treble hook of the popper and finish it with a worm hook or a lightweight jig head. Flukes and finesse worms are both great choices for the dropper on this rig, and they can both be fished either weightless or with a jig head. Without delving too deeply into piscatory psychology, the theory is popping and chugging baits mimic the sound of fish feeding on the surface. This draws the attention of nearby predators. And while bass might still refuse something floating on the surface, they’re hard-pressed to pass up that soft-plastic bait suspended seductively nearby.
7936 Unity Church Rd. Denver, North Carolina
(980) 222-7300
Monday- Saturday: 9:00AM - 8:00PM Sunday: 12:00PM - 8:00PM
“We Get You To The Lake And We Bring You Home.”
CHEVY TRUCKS
The Most Dependable Trucks on the Road
www.friendlychevroletbuick.com
Rick Holmes Albemarle, NC
Lane Eudy Asheboro, NC
Barry Cooper Albemarle, NC
Ashley Birmingham Gary “Maverick” Drennan Albemarle, NC Albemarle, NC
Kenny Monk Albemarle, NC
Nathan Clements Albemarle, NC
Ken Bingham Jr Albemarle, NC
2307 US HWY 52 N. • ALBEMARLE, NC • 704-550-5814 • 800-846-2723 10 CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT
OCTOBER 2017
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM
0870130134
Painstakingly Perfect Goodness
W
North Carolina BBQ Done Right! 2790 NC-16 Bus Denver, NC 28037 704.966.1538
e pride ourselves on the care that we take to provide our customers the highest quality BBQ pork, chicken, beef, and ribs. Our meats are smoked for hours using choice hardwoods to provide the perfect blend of flavor and tenderness. Our signature pulled pork is hand pulled by our Pitmaster, never chopped or shredded then uniquely finished in a way that can only be described as Sweetfire Style!
www.sweetfirebbqnc.com
Order online!
FROM THE ROAD
w w w.fac tor ydirec tmarine.com
TO THE SEA
We take pride in the value of the boats we sell. It’s not a “cheap boat”, it’s a low-cost investment in your future! So what
Now in Stock!
about our RVs? We do the same thing here as well! From new motorhomes/campers to new travel trailers, we do our best to provide our customers with all of the RV options possible! •
Pontoon starting at $14,499 – boat, motor and trailer!
Mention this Ad for a $500 Fishing Package
•
9 2 0 4
N .
L a k e b r o o k e
Tritoons starting at $38,999 boat motor and trailer!
R d
|
C h a r l o t t e ,
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM
Now in Stock! N C
|
7 0 4 . 4 6 4 . 4 9 8 6
OCTOBER 2017
CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT 11
LAKE WYLIE FORECAST
O
ctober is always a good fishing month on Lake Wylie. The catifsh, bass and crappie are in the creeks eating everything in sight, getting ready for winter. The best baits to use while catfishing are white perch and bream. Personaly I like the heads best, trolling at .5 or .6 on your GPS in the creeks in 15-25 feet of water will get you some blues and channel cats. Bass fishing is at its best in October. There are a lot of ways to catch them. Topwater is a great way to start the day. I like a buzzbait early around shallow structure in creeks. Buzzbaits catch big bass. Swimbaits are also a good choice if you are fishing shallow. One of the best ways to have a good day is fishing creeks. Crankbaits that run 10-12 feet is my choice. The flatsided crankbaits seem to work best. I usually put my boat in 16-18 feeet of water and fish them in 5-8 feet of water back to boat near creek channels. Dull colors in shad or bone seem to be best colors. Crappie fishing is in full swing. There’s a lot of ways to catch these fish. You can long line out the back of the boat, using a jig and minnow combination. My running speed is usually about 1.0 mph. This speed will vary depending on the depth of the fish. Most of my trolling is in the creeks that have deep water. You can tight line using a two hook minnow rig in creeks. The speed will be the key to fishing these rigs. I run 12 rod using 3/4 ounce bell sinkers
near the bottom at a speed of .5 mph. Shooting docks is always going to produce some fish. I like the 1/32 ounce jig in colors of red/white, red/white/yellow chartruise/white and pure black. Crowders creek, mill creek, catawba creek and the south fork river are good places to do this kind of crappie fishing. There,s not a lot of fishing pressure during this month and hardly no boat traffic to speak of during October. Fall fishing on Lake Wylie is very good. I have had some of the best fishing days on Lake Wylie during the fall months. –By Jerry Neeley, Carolin’as Fishing Guide Service, 704-678-1043
Give A Gift Of A Lifetime Treat Your Scout to a Henry Commemorative BSA Rifle and Personalize it With its Very Own Serial Number Boy Scouts of America Centennial Edition Tribute Rifle
Golden Boy Eagle Scout Tribute Edition Rifle
Six Special Boy Scout of America Editions Available
Brought to You by: Honor Your Scout and Order Now for Fall Delivery! 1980 Mt. Holly Road • Rock Hill, SC 29730 • 803-328-9792 • www.nicholsstore.com 12 CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT
OCTOBER 2017
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM
Fall’s Reverse
Crappie Migration By TAM Staff
T
he spring spawn is heralded by the blooming of the dogwoods. One-season crappie anglers shake the dust off their gear and head out on the lake to load up a cooler for a fish fry. It’s an annual tradition as regular as the September migration of birds and hunters to the dove fields. A somewhat lesser known rite of fall is the tailgate fish fry. It happens every year about the time those same dogwoods lose their leaves. Crappie, like almost every other species in the lake, go on the move when cooling water temperatures spur the feed-up before winter. It’s a migration very similar to what is experienced before the spawn, except the fish are more interested in finding baitfish than in spring, when the main emphasis is making babies. Shorter days and cooler nights initiate movement away from the deep-water docks and main-lake brush where crappie whiled away the dog days of summer. Along with the baitfish, crappie begin to push up into the creeks, following the channels to the same shallow cover where they schooled up to prepare for the spawn. Anglers should be prepared to do a little riding to find the fish. With an eye on the depthfinder, idle up into the creeks. You should be looking for deeper brush out in the mouths of the creeks in early fall, but as the water cools fish will move right up into the shallows, to the same laydowns, docks and bank brush where they spawned in spring. Any wood cover could hold crappie. The best cover will be adjacent to prominent structure like creek channel bends or intersections, ledges or humps. Remember, the fish use channels like highways. They are funneled by structure and stop for a rest at the first place where they feel comfortable, where the water temperature feels good to them, where there is cover to hide in and baitfish to ambush. In any fishing, finding baitfish is key to finding predatory species. Cover that is holding crappie will be cover that is holding baitfish. Look for balls of bait on the depthfinder, and when things get shallow, keep your eyes peeled for baitfish flickering in the water. Where there is bait, crappie should be nearby. Something to remember about fall is that the forage will be larger. Those shad have had all summer to grow, and it doesn’t hurt to try and match the hatch by using larger lures, shiners or both. Instead of threading your jigheads with the 1 ½-inch bodies that worked so well in spring, try going up to grubs that are 2 inches or longer. This will more accurately mimic the baitfish in the water, and it will also weed out some of the dink crappie that need a little time to grow. The same holds true with live bait. Under a cork or tipping a jig, use the medium or large shiners as opposed to the small ones. As for deploying your baits, there is no technique better for trial and error and loading the boat quickly than spider rigging. With eight to 10 long rods arrayed in holder across the bow, a single angler can push a wide spread of jigs and cover a whole lot of water. The trolling is slow, but one can push those jigs right up into cover. The other obvious benefit of spider rigging is the ability to quickly home in on exactly what it is the fish want to eat on a particular day. Begin with an assortment of depths, sizes and colors, and you should be able to quickly hone in on the preferred pattern as the fish start biting. Other than water color, lord knows what makes crappie want certain colors over others. It’s really pretty ridiculous how important color is to catching them. By the end of the day, it’s quite possible all your rods will be armed with the same lure. If you’re one of those folks who thinks spring is the only time to go crappie fishing, try it out this Saturday. There will be less pleasure-boat traffic on the lake, fewer anglers, because they all went hunting, and you just might come home with cooler full of slabs to fry up before the ball games Sunday night. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM
OCTOBER 2017
CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT 13
LAKE HIGHROCK/BADIN TUCKERTOWN DAM FORECAST
O
ctober is the month many fishermen on the Yadkin Lakes anxiously look forward to after a stifling summer. It signals the beginning of fall and is the first month of the fall bite which means great fishing. Most largemouth bass will move shallower and become more active which causes them to eat more often. During the month of October these bass will hang around any type of cover and become more aggressive making them easier to find and catch. Later in the month and into November largemouth will tend to move to rocky areas such as riprap and rock veins. Good baits to use are shallow diving crankbaits and spinnerbaits along with various types of plastics. Square-bill crankbaits are excellent this time of year. Crappie will also move shallow in October and gather around brush or docks or sometimes rock piles. At this time of year just like in the spring you can catch them with minnows or jigs cast near these areas. Many people prefer this method because of the one on one more personal action. If you really want to catch a lot of crappie this time of year then try long lining with jigs towed behind your boat at about .7 to 1 mph. Creeks are often the first areas to turn on instead of the main river. On High Rock Lake and Tuckertown Lake there is no limit in number or size on crappie. Badin Lake however has a 8 inch minimum size limit and a 20 fish per person limit. Catfish will also begin the fall season by moving to shallower water and feed ravenously. Channel cats often move to the backs of creeks when the baitfish are there. Cut bait works great for these cats especially pulled slowly along the bottom. If you find bait in the back of creeks you can bet the channel cats will be there also. Blue cats and flatheads have a tendency to be around deeper baitfish which often means the river area of our lakes. Flathead cats prefer live bait while the blue cats will eat both cut bait and live bait. October is also the turn on month for striped bass. Cooler water means these fish are more comfortable and the bite is on. Most of the time you will need to target areas of the main river as these fish follow the deeper schools of shad that congregate there. Live shad and artificial baits will both work depending on your preference. This is the time of year that some of the largest stripers are caught. The water and weather gets cooler but the bite gets hotter. This is the beginning of a great season. –By Maynard Edwards, Yadkin Lakes Guide Service, 336-249-6782
HWY. 49 36488 SPORTING GOODS NC 49 Hwy, New London, NC 28127 704-463-7053 Tuckertown Lake 49sports.com
JOE’s Bait, Tackle & Guns -- LLC --
live bait, tackle, guns, ammo, full service archery shop, hunting clothes, decoys, & other supplies.
1236 E. Main St. Albemarle, NC
704-982-8716
FRESHWATER
YADKIN LAKES
GUIDE SERVICE
Badin, High Rock, Tillery, Tuckertown
Largemouth Bass Striped Bass Crappie and Catfish
fishguide@triad.rr.com OCTOBER 2017
CONTACT US!
Mark Alberghini, Publisher
Maynard Edwards 336-249-6782
14 CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT
Advertising that Works–Great Rates...Great Service mark@theanglermagazine.com 704-651-1934
Haley Alberghini, Publisher haley@theanglermagazine.com 704-781-5387
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM
DS
Tips For Shooting Docks By Dan Saknini
S
hooting docks can be one of the most fun and productive techniques for crappie fishing. It is simple, but it does require some skill. Shooting docks requires you to practice and learn several simple steps. Hold the rod with your dominant hand, with the bail open and your index finger holding the line. With your other hand, grasp the jig head, keeping your fingers away from the barb of the hook. Keeping the rod parallel to the water, pull the jig toward your body, bending the rod
into the shape of a C, with the fishing line aligned with the rod. When you release the jig, it will shoot in the direction the rod is pointed. Helpful tip to practice at home: Crack your garage door open about a foot. Stand 15 to 20 feet away from the door and practice shooting your jig under the garage door. Make sure you clip the barbs for pet safety. You can also use a 5-gallon bucket turned on its side and aim into the bucket. The more you practice, the better you’ll get. Even when fishing stand-alone brushpiles, you will find that shooting your jig will give you more accurate placement than casting your line overhead, especially on a breezy day.
s
4343 Old US 52 Lexington, NC 27295 336-619-4235
291 Oakland Rd Spindale, NC 28160 828-286-2290
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM
OCTOBER 2017
CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT 15
Service and Boat Repair LAKE TILLERY FORECAST
W
ith summer temperatures in the rear view and lots of people hunting, we can finally look forward to cooling water temps, less fishing pressure and an increase in fish activity. Large schools of bait fish will begin to gather in the mouths of major creeks and the predator fish that we target won’t be far behind, and they will bring their apatite with them. Largemouth bass will head into more shallow water to feed on shad and other forage fish, shallow crankbaits in natural colors will produce well as baits that have brown/chartreuse patterns. Get your A-Rigs ready along with a 3.5 inch swim bait in pearl or herring colors and you should have a very productive day. Jigs in green pumpkin and crayfish patterns will continue to produce some of the larger fish around wood and rock structure and on nearshore ledges. Pick a Berkley Havoc Pit Boss in matching colors to add some bulk to your jigs to entice the larger fish. Catfish will tend to spread out a bit following different forage fish some into deeper water as the white perch head that direction, also as the baitfish gather in the creeks large schools of catfish will follow just be sure to be there waiting with a large piece of cut shad or panfish on your hook. Drifting with no-snag sinkers will allow you to cover more water in search of blue cats that follow these schools of bait until you hone in on the right spot. Striped bass will also follow the bait into the shallows as water temps cool, pushing into creeks that have even a small amount of current to feed. Morning and evening bites will be on flatlines with small a split shot weight or no weight at all, as the sun gets higher downlines will continue to produce on fish in 15-20 feet of water. Shad and Herring will be the baits of choice just be prepared to net the bait before fishing for the best results. Trolling will be productive with bucktails and spoons and will allow you to cover more water with chartreuse and white or blue and white being the top picks. Crappie fishing should improve with the best fishing slow trolling in and around 15 feet of water using electronics to locate large schools of crappie often located just under the baitfish. Once again the major creek mouths, primary and some secondary points will be the areas to target. Jigs tipped with minnows produce the best and of course chartreuse is a must on your jig body of choice. Be safe on the water, wear your life jacket, and while in the stand wear your safety harness.
“Best experience in 30 years with service. Twice recently they repaired my new Phoenix in one day, unreal in the boat repair world – I even told them to service the boat if needed and they checked and said nothing was needed, easily saving hundreds that they could have charged by doing the unnecessary service.” –recent happy customer, facebook, june 2017
5911 NC Hwy. #8 • Lexington, NC • demarine@live.com
By Rodney Crisco – Joe’s Bait, Tackle & Guns LLC
Building Brand Loyalty is Who We Are
Age of Reader................. 82% at 35+ years old Gender of Reader........................ 82% are Male 18% are Female Owns a truck, van or SUV.......................... 86% Owns a boat.................................................. 68% Owns 2 or more automobiles.....................72% Household income...................$82,301-250,495 Home Ownership of Readers................. 79.5% Reader Survey: Global Marketing Research International
16 CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT
OCTOBER 2017
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM
david diggs
air
wice one ven and ed, ave ce.”
fishing Tackle
The original heavy-duTy rod holder
www.kluttzdiscounttire.com
Rod holders
for all your fishing needs
Holds any rod combination www.santeerodholders.com
Brenda Farmer Broker/Realtor
4001 East Highway 24/27 Midland, NC 28107
830 nortH main st. norwood, nc 28128
320 NC Hwy 200 N Stanfield, NC 28163
704-690-0033
704-888-5895 Tire Sales and Service
com
Take it to the Street
Todd Street’s Gun & Pawn Gun Specialists
13333 Highway 601, Midland, NC, 704-888-9998
Advertising that Works–Great Rates...Great Service
CONTACT US!
Mark Alberghini, Publisher mark@theanglermagazine.com 704-651-1934
Haley Alberghini, Publisher haley@theanglermagazine.com 704-781-5387
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM
OCTOBER 2017
CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT 17
A Limit of Lures This leads to lots of lures and even more confusion. Another truth revealed: there are no magic lures. As our tackle box got smaller, we got better at finding, reading and catching the fish. If you are a bass fisherman, you already know before you venture out what you are going to use, and you probably already have it tied on. Realistically, through the course of the day you might change lures three or four times. The Lure of Lures The baits that consistently catch fish for me have a few things in common. There are two critical factors, fish have to notice any potential natural or artificial food source, and they have to be motivated to bite the object of their attention. Sizes, shapes, colors, action and swimming motion all come into play. The exercise of minimizing your tackle collection starts with knowing what fish eat, what that thing rd e Howa looks like and how it swims. Br idgett one and le te The Magic of Minnows Minnow-imitating lures n o M y e Jo By will always have a place in my box. The A.C. Shiner #300 C comes closer to me than anything else in mimicking the size, ith all the hype of color and swimming motion of the real thing. The side-to-side wobble what’s new and the barrage of “gotta have it” baits, it’s a and natural color coupled with the darting, fleeing motion you supply wonder fishermen don’t go crazy or bankrupt. seals the deal. The speed and action of any bait is determined by the For those who catch the passion of fishing, it dominates your angler and makes all the difference. thoughts and activities. As you leave your favorite fishing hole your Another lure which successfully imitates a minnow is the only thought is about when you can come back. Often the tackle box spinnerbait. The blade size, shape and colors help the fish decide becomes a status symbol, along with rods and reels, it becomes a whole whether to bite the bait or let it swim. Every tackle box needs a few. A other competition over who has the most baits, every color, size and Strike King 3/8-ounce, gold willow, silver Colorado with a white skirt action. is easily my No. 1 choice. One of our personal favorite self-imposed fishing rules is the oneBuzzbaits can simulate schools of fleeing baitfish. A high-speed year rule. Simply stated, you can buy as big a tackle box as you want, reel is beneficial for the ease of retrieve and to keep the lure riding buy as many baits as you can carry to stock your box, but if anything high on the surface. in there doesn’t “get wet” or catch a fish it has to come out. The survival of fish is dependent on their ability to track down Tie it on, catch fish, use it or lose it. and catch baitfish and minnows. The least amount of energy any fish Over the years, like others, we’ve fallen into the trap of jerking expends in catching food raises the eventual nutritional value. The lures from the peg board at our local tackle retailer based off the shorter the chase, the bigger the payoff. Size-wise a bigger form of a recommendation of Saturday-morning TV angler, seminar speakers potential food value is always better. If you have to move the same or from a tournament pro’s quote in the pages of a fishing magazine. distance to catch a larger source, it provides the biggest return. It just makes sense. Seatow is the #1 choice of boaters nationwide for Mudbugs Crayfish, mudbug, crawdads, expert on-water assistance. Whether you are new whatever you choose to call them, bass love em’. A to boating or an old salt-we’ve got you covered! major portion of their diet consists of baitfish, but given a choice, bass will choose crawfish over almost anything else. They are the candy of the underwater Take advantage of world, but again, bass are opportunists and will one of these two eat what’s most available. For every 5 pounds of great membership crawfish a bass eats, it gains a pound. Good for the fish and the fisherman. options and take the Crankbaits come in rainbow of colors and are worry out of your very effective under certain conditions, but it’s my boating experience! belief that a jig can match the unique swimming motion of crawfish and baitfish better than any GOLD CARD other artificial lure. The crankbait can move only $ 169 per year a limited distance in depth and wobble. You can The most comprehensive on-water create a more random movement with a jig. Colors assistance on the market! Full suite of on-water assistance for me include, black/blue, pumpkin pepper and a good crawfish color is brown/orange. I prefer a “You may rest assured that your vessel will be in good LAKE CARD 3/8-ounce jig trailed by a Rage plastic chunk. Most hands due to the trained and committed captains we $ 119 per year importantly, the retrieve speed, range of motion have on staff. Our captains are standing by 24/7 to Same benefits as the Gold Card and movement are supplied by the angler. but on ALL fresh water assist our members both on and off the water. (Excluding Florida) There are so many other kinds of artificial lures. Give us a call any time, we can help or just say hello!“ These are just a few that are staples in my box. Peek into your own tackle box, try a few of these lures and I’m sure you’ll have less in your tackle box and more email: rsmith@seatow.com in your livewell.
W
harrielakes. ad for se the oat picture. ip informacard info Captain & 910-995-
com
CAPTAIN RYAN SMITH
18 CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT
OCTOBER 2017
855-732-8691 910-995-0999
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM
A O P I
f th to Ye Eve withou That d seen b won’t. to the I li and th from small to take Af case o to an o creativ case in includ direct of the nymph Wh impor good e my ru rubbe fishing from i An abdom from a trying seen it Som Other if you in min choos small. right o the ot
Joe DiP trout g can be 633-07
Adjusting Old Standard Patterns I
f there’s one thing I’ve learned from spending most of my life trying to think like a trout, it’s that trout don’t think like people very often. Yet, every now and again, I get lucky and get something right. Every angler lives for days when the trout take standard fly patterns without regard, but the reality is that most days that’s not the case. That doesn’t mean you have to invent a pattern that the fish have never seen before to fool them on days when flies from the bins at the fly shop won’t. Sometimes, adjusting the size of the fly you’re fishing compared to the actual insects the fish are eating is all it takes. I like to step up dries and step down nymphs first when trying this and then go the other direction if the first shift doesn’t inspire a bite from fish. If tinkering with fly size doesn’t produce, tweaking some small aspect of a standard pattern many times will convince the trout to take a fly. A favorite adjustment of mine is changing a natural-looking wing case on a nymph to something odd and flashy. Sometimes just going to an odd color of flashabou is the ticket, while other times being more creative with what sort of materials are use is required. This is the case in one of my most effective pheasant tail nymph variants which includes a wing case made of gold flashabou and an abdomen made by direct dubbing gray marabou. From time to time, I’ll include legs made of the stiff barbs from a wood duck flank feather, particularly when the nymphs in the water are mottled. Whatever aspect of a fly you’re trying to make more appealing, it’s important to stay open-minded with what materials you choose. A good example of this can be seen in my material choice with some of my rubber-legged stonefly patterns, which range from pre-fabricated rubber LivelyLegz to strands from a spinnerbait or jig designed for bass fishing. I’ve also created a few good looking thoraxes and wing cases from individual strands of rubber from bass jigs. Another effective example of this I’ve found is replacing the abdomen of a standard hare’s ear nymph with direct-dubbed underfur from a red fox tail. The bottom line with this all is to not be afraid of trying something you’ve maybe never seen or heard of. If you haven’t seen it before, chances are good the fish haven’t either. Sometimes you get lucky and find a technique that really works. Other times, you’re just the laughing stock of your fishing buddies. But if you never try it, you’ll never know. Keep in mind that whatever part of the fly you choose to change, it is usually best to start small. Don’t change legs and a wing case right out of the gate, try one first, then the other, then both at once.
Now a proud distributor of fly fishing gear!
Madison River Fly Fishing is your one stop shop for all fly fishing gear and we sell the following brands Don’t forget to book your guided fly fishing trip today! Ask about our special promotion! 20910 Torrence Chapel Rd. Suite D5, Cornelius, NC 28031
704-896-3676
www.carolinaflyfishing.com
Advertising that Works Great Rates...Great Service We ensure that your ad looks great and gets the attention that it deserves!
CONTACT US!
Mark Alberghini, Publisher mark@theanglermagazine.com
Joe DiPietro is a Georgia-based trout guide and fly tyer. He can be contacted at (706) 633-0773.
704-651-1934
Haley Alberghini, Publisher haley@theanglermagazine.com 704-781-5387
www.theanglermagazine.com
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM
OCTOBER 2017
CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT 19
A Few Ideas To Consider Barefoot This Deer Season By Joe DiPietro
H
ere’s some helpful information: • If your goal is to fill the freezer, by all means set up over that deer super highway that’s worn to the dirt with use. And when the bucks start actively chasing does, this is also a good place to be if you’re hunting antlers. However, during the pre-rut, mature bucks in pressured areas will seldom be found in the open woods using the same travel routes as the herds of does. If your target is a mature buck, instead of setting up over the main trails, search for secondary trails that may parallel those super highways. Bucks will often move through heavy cover or utilize depressions or low areas for concealment. That’s why you’ll often find scrape lines in this type of cover. A good tip is to search for these secondary trails downwind of the predominant winds of the area. Mature bucks like to travel downwind of the does to scent out those that may be coming into estrous. • If you’re looking for freezer meat, try using a fawn bleat early in the season. Bleat cans or grunts with a setting for fawn bleats both work. It may seem a little dirty, but mama deer have a hard time ignoring a fawn in distress. At the very least, they will sometimes show up just to see what’s going on. Like any type of calling for deer, it sometimes works and sometimes doesn’t. But it’ll give you something to do in the stand, and every now and then it will draw in a curious or protective doe. These days it might bring in a coyote, too. So be ready if you feel the need to drop a nuisance songdog. • Take clues from droppings. Some folks say you can determine the size and sex of deer by the size and shape of droppings. While it’s sometimes true that buck droppings will be larger and clumped into cylindrical shapes and younger deer will leave smaller separated “pellets,” you may be better off looking at location for clues. Fresh clumped droppings along a rub or scrape line, or along an isolated travel corridor from feeding to bedding areas will tell you a buck has been using the area recently. Obviously, it’s also wise to consider the freshness of droppings as an indicator of whether or not the area is currently being used. Shiny, wet or even warm droppings are what you’re looking for. Those dried up, dull piles mean it’s been a while since deer have been using the area. Finally, consider the amount of droppings, especially if you’re targeting a feeding area or setting up on a travel route to and from a feeding area. There’s no sense in setting up over any old pile of poo. Find a food source with numerous piles of droppings around it, and you’ve found an area where deer hang out and feed comfortably. • Consider hunting from the ground. Most hunters prefer setting up in an elevated position, whether it be a climbing stand or a tower set up over a field. The advantages are obvious; it allows for better vision and it gets the hunter and his scent up off the ground. But in certain situations you’re better off hunting from a small portable ground blind or just tucked into the brush. In the thick cover deer love, there sometimes aren’t any trees big enough to climb. Building a stand or bringing in a tripod is too disruptive in a hot area you hope to hunt in the near future. Sometimes, when you find good sign in the thick stuff, it’s a good idea to just sit down. The field of vision may not be spectacular, but it’s hard to beat a close encounter with a good buck from the ground. Remember, though, hunters must be very careful about scent and movement when set up at eye/nose level with deer. 20 CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT
OCTOBER 2017
Sunday-Monday: Closed Tuesday-Thursday: 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m Wednesday-Friday: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Deer Season is around the corner!
We have all the equipment to make your hunt a success. Stop in and sign up for the 2017 Deer Contest!
Friend us on Facebook and sign up on our e-mail list for Monthly Specials
Stop in for the latest gear and accessories to pursue your archery passion. We are dedicated to helping people practice and expand their archery skills. Practice your shooting skill at our range! All abilities are welcome! 4410 Old Pineville Rd, Charlotte, NC 28217
(704) 527-1110
www.barefootarchery.com
704-888-6900
www.stuffystaxidermy.com
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM
The beauty and solitude of the Great Smoky Mountains make this new KOA an ideal spot to settle in and relax for a while. Your riverfront, award winning KOA Campground in the Western NC Mountains. Deluxe Cabins, Full hook up RV sites, and tent camping. At the campground, guests can wade into the water to cast their lines for trout in the stocked river or relax in the lounge with friends.
Hot Deals Throughout the Fall
• Pool • Game Room Lounge with Large TV • Pet Friendly • Pavilion • Showers/Restrooms/Laundry
RESOLVE TO CAMP MORE!
Short Drive from Whitewater Rafting on the Ocoee River or Family-Friendly Nantahala River
GuideNorth Service & Travel GA’s
Full Service Fly Shop
Book Your Next Guided Trip With Us:
• Etowah River Fish this Season • Chattahoochee River With • PrivateCOHUTTA Trophy Trout Water Call The Shop For Details On Our
Call the shop forand ourFloat hosted Guided Wade Trips Trips! and non-hosted trips
Featuring Jackson Big Rigs Authorized Yellow Dog Dealer
www.cohuttatravel.com Our knowledgable staff has been serving the Maggie Valley Cabin Rental market for over 15 years helping others, like yourself, find the right vacation home in the Western North Carolina and Eastern Tennessee areas. Premier Vacation Rentals offers a wide variety of rental properties for your Smoky Mountain vacation. We are located in the Maggie Valley and Waynesville area.
Visit us at www.PVRNC.com Or call (800) 923-6025
39 S. Public Square, Cartersville GA 30120 (770) 606-1100 • www.cohuttafishingco.com
(770) 606-1100 www.cohuttafishingco.com
Sept_NS_COHUTTA.indd 1
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CANGL_BL1-BL4.indd 3
8/15/14 10:01 PM
OCTOBER 2017
BLUE RIDGE
3
9/18/17 4:16 PM
Convenient to Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, and Beech Mountain Our resorts offer the perfect vacation or getaway in the mountains of Western North Carolina Call Today
800-788-2582
125 Profile View Rd., Banner Elk, NC 28604
www.grandfatherrv.com Augusta, GA (706) 738-4536
387 Highland Ave. Augusta, GA 30907
Exit Realty Mountain View Properties has several BRAND NEW COMMUNITIES with homes to fit every budget and buyer.
Corky Vetten, Broker In-Charge 828-361-0358 corky@exitmurphy.com
Kathy Vetten, Broker 828-361-0360 kathy@exitmurphy.com
Home and Land Packages Western North Carolina and North Georgia areas
www.exitmurphy.com
Savannah, GA
(912) 349-2352 24 Drayton St Savannah, GA 31401
Rivers and Glen Trading Co. blends timeless styles with quality goods. We specialize in classic outdoor attire, fly fishing, fly tying, wing shooting, and travel. With locations in Augusta and Savannah Georgia. Rivers and Glen can help you with your clothing needs and get you out on the water!
riversandglen.com 4
BLUE RIDGE
CANGL_BL1-BL4.indd 4
OCTOBER 2017
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
9/18/17 4:16 PM
By Nick Carter
S
nowbird Creek, and its main tributary Big Snowbird Creek, are places fly anglers could spend days exploring and still leave water untouched. On its top end, Big Snowbird is one of the largest remaining flows populated with native southern Appalachian brook trout. On its lower end, near its mouth at Lake Santeetlah, Snowbird plays host to an annual migration of lake-run rainbows that reach lengths well in excess of 20 inches. In between these two stretches, the river has sections of hatchery-supported waters, trophy waters, a delayed harvest and steep gorges where wild rainbows and browns thrive. It’s a river that really does have it all. The biggest draw for most trout anglers is Big Snowbird Creek. In 2013 a 2.9-mile delayed harvest section was added to the creek. This stretch, from the concrete bridge over Big Snowbird on FR 2579
By Carlos Hidalgo
L
efty’s Deceiver may be the most effective fly pattern ever. Lefty Kreh developed the fly in the 1950s and since then Deceivers have caught fish all over the world. Lefty describes the Deceiver as a tying method rather than a specific fly pattern. This allows for modifications in color, size and materials. These alterations have made the Deceiver extremely versatile. Here are a few “alternative” Deceivers you should think about tying: Half-and-Half is a hybrid fly that combines the best elements of the Deceiver and the Clouser Minnow. The fly is essentially a Clouser Minnow with hackle feathers instead of bucktail for the tail. The Half-andHalf is very popular in the salt from Maine to the Outer Banks. Striped bass, bluefish, redfish and seatrout are suckers for it. Big-Eye Deceiver is a standard Deceiver with a teal or mallard feath-
to the footbridge at the end of the gravel road that parallels the creek, receives heavier stockings and is catch-and-release, artificial-only from October into June. This provides some much needed protection for a stream where access is almost too easy. Before the regulations were implemented, I remember driving past miles of some of the most gorgeous-looking trout water to get to the walk-in section where there were actually fish. Now, it’s well worth stopping to fish. At the end of the gravel road, a rail junction existed when the area was logged in the 1920s. This point, known as “The Junction,” begins some of the best walk-in water in western North Carolina. Fishing pressure drops off progressively the farther you’re willing to walk, and the water is a seemingly endless series of pocket water stretches broken by deep bend runs and plunge pools. Most of the fish are small wild rainbows, but there are some browns, and some big browns will occasionally reward anglers willing to spend some time dredging out the deeper holes. There are miles of stream suitable for a 3- or 4-weight rod upstream of The Junction. On some days, the fishing can be gangbusters for lots of little wild trout; on other days it can be downright tough. Like any wild stream, the fish can be wary of predators and sometimes selective about what they eat. Lower Falls, marked as Big Falls on many maps, is the lowest of several cascades that serve as barriers to block upstream movement of rainbows and browns. Above Lower Falls, there are seven or more miles of creek where only brook trout live up into the headwaters. It’s big water in terms of native brook trout, or “speck,” fishing. There are some good campsites along the trail that meanders to and away from the creek, and the upper end of Big Snowbird is an outstanding place to pack in and spend a few days fishing. For GPS coordinates to access points and detailed maps of Snowbird and all of North Carolina’s and Georgia’s best trout water, check out “Flyfishers Guide to North Carolina & Georgia.” It is available at fly shops, on Amazon, and signed copies are available from the author by emailing nsc8957@gmail.com. er “cheek” on either side of the collar. The feather is treated with Flexament and then either a big eye is painted on it or a big prismatic tape eye is glued to it. This pattern is usually tied in larger sizes for bigger gamefish. Cockroach Deceiver (tail: grizzly hackle, collar: gray squirrel tail) has been fooling tarpon for decades. Angler, author and former editor of Fly Tyer magazine, Art Schenk calls this pattern his desperation pattern for largemouth bass. Fishair Deceiver (tail: Fishair, collar: Fishair) uses synthetic hair which produces a very durable fly. This variation is good for bluefish, barracuda, mackerel and other toothy critters. Marabou Deceiver (tail: hackle, collar: marabou) is a great fly to use when you want to dead drift a baitfish imitation in current. The marabou breathes and pulses on its own and provides a lot of action. Bucktail Deceiver (tail: bucktail, collar: bucktail) is easier to tie than the original. If tied so the bucktail flares a bit, the pattern can mimic the transparency of many small baitfish. Ostrich Deceiver (tail: ostrich herl, collar: bucktail) is a nice pattern to imitate narrow-bodied baitfish like sand lances or large eels. Northeast striper anglers need to tie some of these up. Hidalgo’s Poltergeist (tail: Sparkleflash, body: Diamond Braid, collar: Sparkleflash) This is a very effective, flashy minnow imitation that I tie in small sizes. Sparkleflash is not very common in the United States. Flashabou Weave (three-strand blend) is similar and can be substituted. Crawfish Deceiver (tail: red squirrel tail, body: non-lead wire covered with brown chenille, collar: red squirrel tail) I tie this fly to imitate swimming crawfish. It is much easier to tie than most crawfish imitations. Fish it with short sharp strips followed by pauses. Tie some of these for largemouth, smallmouth, trout or any other gamefish that likes mud bugs. I hope you add some of these “alternative” Lefty’s Deceivers to your arsenal. They will help you catch more fish. Contact Carlos at cah6620@gmail.com to submit a pattern for consideration in this column, if you would like a high-resolution copy of this photo or if you would like to order my book, “South Florida’s Peacock Bass.”
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CANGL_NC1-NC4.indd 3
OCTOBER 2017
NORTH CAROLINA 3
9/19/17 10:38 AM
K H S U R F. C O M
WIDEST SELECTION OF KAYAKS & ACCESSORIES ON THE OUTER BANKS & THE CRYSTAL COAST
TEAM ANGLER RYAN RHODES
ALL NEW MIRAGEDRIVE 180 FORWARD-REVERSE SYSTEM
S A L E S • R E N TA L S • F R E E D E M O S NAGS HEAD, NC: 252.441.6800
4 NORTH CAROLINA
CANGL_NC1-NC4.indd 4
OCTOBER 2017
B E A U F O R T, N C : 2 5 2 . 5 2 8 . 8 4 6 6
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
9/19/17 10:38 AM
FALL FISHING IS HERE! E! ME! COM ELCO WEL ERSS W ATER BOAT BO es ut es in ut M ly Min Only On ks arks Mar St M Thee St om Th From Fr ge fu ge Re fu e Re lif e ild lif Wild W
A 71-Room Lodge with Meeting Rooms • Group Rates Available Located 30 miles south of Tallahassee • Just minutes to the Gulf of Mexico Restaurant & Bar for Private Events • Banquet and Meeting Rooms for Groups Boat Parking Available • Centrally located for several Nature Tours
M A G N U S O N H OT E L CRAWFORDVILLE
3896 Coastal Highway • Crawfordville, FL 32327 850.926.4455 or 800.878.1546 www.WildwoodResortFL.com
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CANGL_SE1-SE4.indd 3
OCTOBER 2017
SOUTHEAST
3
9/19/17 11:38 AM
Over 40,000 SKUs in stock. Abu Garcia, Daiwa, Fin-Nor, Okuma, Penn, Quantum, Shimano No order minimums!
www.FISHINGREELPARTS.com 1500 US HWY 19 N. Holiday, Fl 34691 (727) 935-7258
JOIN
ONLINE
• Regional Reports • Featured Articles • Fishing Tips • Giveaways
www.COASTALANGLERMAG.COM
GREAT FISHING FALL FISHING CHARTERS REQUIRES GREAT REST! NOW BOOKING
INSHORE LIGHT TACKLE FISHING RETAIL GUIDE SHOP • CUSTOM FLATS SKIFF FULLY RIGGED KAYAK TRIPS • KAYAK RENTAL
Boater’s Welcome! Capt. Mike McNamara
(850) 510-7919
or email redfish@stmarksoutfitters.com
www.stmarksoutfitters.com
721 Port Leon, St Marks FL 4
SOUTHEAST
CANGL_SE1-SE4.indd 4
OCTOBER 2017
Amenities include: • complimentary full hot breakfast • spacious dining room • outdoor courtyard with fountain, gazebo Make a reservation today and save at the BEST WESTERN Wakulla Inn & Suites!
EACH BEST WESTERN BRANDED HOTEL IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED
• fitness room • outdoor swimming pool • conference room • free high-speed wireless Internet 3292 Coastal Hwy 98 • Crawfordville, Fla.
850.926.3737 Fax:Ê850.926.4683
www.wakullainnhotel.com
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
9/19/17 11:38 AM
r spread PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT POWER-POLE INTRODUCES NEW MANUAL SPIKES The new Power-Pole Ultra-lite Spike is strong yet lightweight. This ¾-inch spike is made of a composite material and features HollowCore technology to reduce weight yet provide a secure hold for canoes, kayaks, paddleboards and boats up to 1,500 lbs. The Ultra-lite Spike is available in 8.5-foot and 6-foot lengths and features a pushgrip comfort handle that includes a 1/4-20 threaded insert at the top for adding accessories like a flag, light or camera. The Ultra-lite Spike also includes a 6-foot lanyard made of 3/8-inch braided dock line with a loop at each end. The new Heavy-duty Spike is super tough and super strong. Made of solid composite material, this spike provides a secure hold for flats boats, bay boats, bass boats, aluminum and pontoon boats. The new ¾-inch Heavy-duty Spike comes in an 8.5-foot length and also has the push-grip comfort handle with a 1/4-20 threaded insert. The Heavy-duty Spike also includes a 6-foot lanyard with loop at each end made of 3/8-inch braided dock line. Now there’s a new Power-Pole spike that works with the Power-Pole Micro spike driver, making it the perfect addition to a boat, kayak or paddle board. For more information on the new Ultra-lite and Heavy-duty Micro Spikes visit www.power-pole.com.
WWW.POWER-POLE.COM
The all-electric Power-Pole Micro anchor is compact, virtually silent and drives any 3/4” spike at the push of a button. Add the new Power-Pole Heavy-duty spike to your team and get ready to score big. Get all the details and find a dealer near you at power-pole.com.
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 15
I
OCTOBER 2017
I
NATIONAL
15
9/20/17 2:36 PM
FRESHWATER
By Jerrod Vila
O
h, the fall. It brings us colorful foliage, football, fresh apple cider and big ornery brown trout. When the mercury begins to take the plunge and daylight starts to dwindle, big mature brown trout start their yearly routine of procreation. What follows is a feeding binge of mature trout. Fish that have been uncatchable all summer throw caution to the wind. This is not the time for small flies and delicate presentations. Big gaudy nymphs and large streamers are the name of the game in fall. Large stonefly patterns like Girdle Bugs and Pat’s Rubber Legs are good choices as are the usual generic mayfly patterns like Hare’s Ears and Pheasant Tails, just opt for
16
FRESHWATER
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 16
I
OCTOBER 2017
I
a size 8 instead of an 18. My personal favorite fall flies are streamers, and something with a little bit of color, too. For some reason big fall browns seem to like streamers with a bit of orange in them. Sculpin patterns can be especially deadly this time of year. Whether it be the giant protein-packed snack a big sculpin delivers or a triggered attack response implanted in trout to protect their roe, it should be used to your advantage. It is also the time for stealth. With overly large trout sometimes holding in ridiculously shallow water, being sneaky pays huge dividends. Wear drab colored shirts at the very least. Even a camouflage jacket is not too far fetched. I normally work a river upstream, but this is not the case when fishing fall streamers. I’ll work it down. I can be much quieter and more stealthy when walking with the current as opposed to against it. If possible, stay on the bank as much as you can. Most fish will hit on the swing, so the area you expect the take to come will be downstream of your location. If you were working upstream, you could have already spooked a fish. Cast across, swing it down, take a few sneaky steps down stream, think about it, cast across, swing it down. Walking the river is crucial. Don’t just haphazardly crash through the water on your way to a good run. Hunt the river this time of year. Take a few steps and watch. This is where a good pair of polarized glasses are worth their weight in gold. Look over the entire stream, not just the typical haunts. You may be pleasantly surprised and amazed by what you’ll see. Trout will still be positioned in good usual runs too, but much more apt to attack your offering. Instead of heading to the deer stand or taking up a spot on the couch to watch the big game, get out on the stream. Just maybe, a kyped-up, big old slab of spotted butter will end up in your net. Jerrod Vila is a simple guy from Upstate New York with a passion for fly fishing, cooking and predator hunting. For more tips and videos check out www.downwindoutdoors.com and www.beyondthecrosshair.com.
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
9/20/17 2:36 PM
FRESHWATER
THE XTREME 20 BOAT, MOTOR, TRAILER
38,950
FR $
TORTUGA SIDE CONSOLE BOAT, MOTOR, TRAILER
19,950
FR $
BossmanBoats_.25_0917.indd 1
PWC Fishing Towers
Enclosures
Rod Holders
Casting Platform
E-Box
Accessory Mounts
Lights
Storage Bag
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 17
8/12/17 6:12 PM
I
OCTOBER 2017
I
FRESHWATER
17
9/20/17 2:36 PM
BOAT
Material Length Beam Weight Maximum HP Fuel Capacity Transome Height Ateeering RPM IDLE 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 5000 5500 6000 6100
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 18
ENGINE
Suzuki DF300APX (Twin install) Engine Type 4-Stroke V-6 HP 300 x 2 (600 HP) Displacement 4.0L Operating Range 5700-6300 Weight 604 lb.s Lubrication Wet Sump Fuel Delivery Multi-Point EFI Igntion Solid State
310 SE Fiberglass 30'7" 9'6" 4800 lb.s 600 236 gallons 25" Hydraulic MPH 4.0 5.0 7.6 10.3 16.9 23.9 29.6 34.6 39.5 45.0 49.5 52.4 55.1
PERFORMANCE DATA GPH 1.1 2.0 4.2 5.3 9.0 12.1 15.5 21.6 27.3 34.9 40.2 51.2 52.2
MPG 3.64 2.50 1.81 1.94 1.88 1.98 1.91 1.60 1.45 1.29 1.23 1.02 1.06
RANGE 772 531 384 413 399 420 406 340 307 274 262 217 224
OTHER SPECS Material Diameter/Pitch Number of Blades Hole Position Jack Plate
Propeller Stainless Steel 16 x 20 3
Mounting Height 3rd N/A
TEST CONDITIONS
Water Conditions Wind Velocity Air Temperature Fuel Load Weight Onboard Results may vary. Range based on 90% fuel capacity.
Light Chop 10-15 MPH 79 degrees 80 gallons 2 person & Gear T-Top W/Hardtop 3 Batteries
PEFORMANCE SUMMARY
Top Speed 0-30 Acceleration Optimum Cruising Range Best Cruising Fuel Efficiency
55.1 mph 5.3 seconds 406 Miles @ 3500 1.91 MPG @ 3500 RPM
9/20/17 2:36 PM
By Randy Cnota
T
he dry brisk November morning air is a welcome change to Florida’s Forgotten Coast residents, but not just for the obvious reasons. The summer heat has lifted, and the mighty red drum is hungry and looking to fill her belly with whatever kind of crustacean or finny fish she can get close to. As you move stealthily along the marsh, you search for the signs: a wake along the grass line or a tail piercing the water’s surface. Either one is worthy of a cast and, if presented properly,
can result in the silence of the morning stalk being broken by the crash of a topwater plug being engulfed, the scream of a reel’s drag and some enthusiastic expletives. Stalking the skinnies of the marsh can be a challenging experience. Reds spook easily, so stealth is a must, as are accurate and purposeful casts; all this is what makes the hunt so rewarding. The waters of Franklin County are teeming with reds, making the chance of fooling, fighting and releasing a mighty red an extremely attainable and rewarding experience. If you come to this area to chase reds, any shallow-drafting boat will put you in a position for success, but some are better suited than others. Ideally, the ability to pole, paddle or scull your vessel will give you the advantage of stealth, but a trolling motor and a well-planned use of tides and wind also works well on the flats. Franklin County TDC is giving away a free red fishing excursion this month, so enter for your chance to win and make your redfish dream a reality. The reds and so many other fish are abundant in some of the most beautiful places on earth, right here. Don’t let another fall go by without experiencing this amazing time of year along Florida’s Forgotten Coast. For more details or to sign up, go to: www. floridasforgottencoast.com. Randy Cnota is co-publisher of the Panama City/Forgotten Coast edition of Coastal Angler Magazine.
Land This Getaway! Enter to Win a Fall Fishing Trip along Florida’s Forgotten Coast! Win a fishing charter trip, weekend accommodations and meals at some of Franklin County’s finest restaurants
Visit floridasforgottencoast.com/fish or scan the code to enter!
APALACHICOLA . ST. GEORGE ISLAND . CARRABELLE . ALLIGATOR POINT
to Enter CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 19
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
I
OCTOBER 2017
I
NATIONAL
19
9/20/17 2:36 PM
UNDER THE SEA
managed to spear a mangrove snapper, a hogfish and a red grouper that day… and all were head shots! It was a fun and auspicious beginning to his spearfishing life. That day, he became a full-fledged spearfisherman. Here are some tips on how to introduce your young gun: 1. Take small steps. Teach them snorkeling in the pool, then the here comes a time in a hunter’s life when you’ve ocean, then add the speargun. been through all the stages, and 2. Do not take them out in bad conditions. your satisfaction comes more from Their first few attempts should be fun and the total hunting experience—being in the comfortable. outdoors, enjoying the company of friends, 3. Have a talk about spearfishing ethics and seeing the beauty of nature and perhaps safety. This is extremely important! mentoring a young hunter. Whether it’s 4. Make sure they are properly equipped and your own child or a friend’s, it is both a joy comfortable. The mask should not leak, they and a big responsibility. should have proper skin protection and warmth, First, you must assess whether the and they should be able to load their bands. Start youngster is ready. Can they already dive with three weaker bands until they build strength. comfortably? If not, they should not have a 5. Dedicate the day to them. Commit to loaded weapon in their hand. Do they have them no matter how tempted you are to hunt for “muzzle awareness?” Do they understand yourself. the concept of never letting the speargun tip 6. Have them watch you first. Over-exaggerate point at anyone, not even for a split second? Nicholas Manganiotis as toddler and 10 years a slow and soft descent, so they learn that slow is Do they have the self-control to listen and later a spearfisherman. Photo by Dr. Angelos better and that fish will not spook if you approach follow your direction? Manganiotis. them the right way. Beginners have a tendency to If they are ready, there are many benefits. rush, over-exert and get buck-fever. Instill a calm They will learn patience, as not every attempt and reverent approach to the entire experience. will end in victory. They will surely bond with the sea and gain respect 7. Don’t over-instruct. Give them a few pointers and let them fail. for nature. They will grow mentally and physically stronger, as the sea Praise them for what they did right before you tell them what they did will often test their limits. They will learn where food really comes from. wrong. Here is a recent example, the case of my friend Angelo’s 13-year-old If all goes well, it will be a fun day, and they will always remember child. Nicholas had been exhibiting a keen interest in fish and the ocean their first fish with pride. Photograph it; celebrate it; enjoy it. Their first since the age of 4. He would watch fishing shows instead of cartoons; he fish will only happen once! anxiously waited on the dock for our return and examined every fish we caught. He was a good student, a highly disciplined violin player, and he Sheri is a world-record holder, host of Speargun Hunter, and producer showed comfort and awareness in the water. He was ready, so I gave him of The Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Follow one of my smaller Wong spearguns to try. “Sheri Daye” and “The Blue Wild” on Facebook and Instagram. His father chose a nice reef in 20 feet of water off Islamorada. The water was clear, warm and flat—excellent conditions. Nicholas could For more Sheri Daye, go to already identify all the species, but he turned to us for final approval before targeting a fish in order to make sure it was of legal size. He
MENTORING YOUNG GUNS
T
CAMSPEARFISHING.COM
20
FRESHWATER
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 20
I
OCTOBER 2017
I
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
9/20/17 2:36 PM
EXPERT ADVICE
See the Fish
DAVID MANEY, FOWLER’S SUNGLASSES
W
alking a shallow trout stream, casting to structure in lakes or making sure you’re going after the biggest fish in an offshore school you need functional high performance UV sunglasses to see beneath the water. One pair may not fit the function for each of these varied UV demands. Shallow streams with bright sunlight require amber for most people. Deeper murky waters and overcast conditions need grey or amber. For offshore with bright sun and the need to see deeper into the blue waters, your best bet is blue mirror or grey. As an avid angler and someone who’s been involved in the sunglasses industry for over 20 years, my advice is to always try to match the sunglasses to the condition. This requires keeping several different UV’s with you. Most sunglass cases come with clip-on attachments so keeping a few pair of sunglasses with you has never been easier. As the conditions change during your day, you’ll be prepared to match your UV formula with the change. Once you’ve prepared yourself for these UV changes you’ll be on top of your angling game no matter what.
For the best overall coverage in any condition I recommend one pair of blue mirror/grey and one pair of green mirror/ amber. This simple modification in your sight fishing tactics will make a huge difference in your angling success. Tight Lines, David Maney Fowler’s Pharmacy 888-340-9021 www.FowlersSunglasses.com
6 Reasons Why Fowler’s Sells More Sunglasses than Anyone Else in the U.S. Over 250,000 Pairs Sold #1. Price #2. Selection #3. Price #4. Selection #5. Price #6. Selection
Since 1955
Toll Free
888-340-9021
www.FowlersSunglasses.com
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 21
I
OCTOBER 2017
I
NATIONAL
21
9/20/17 2:37 PM
FLY FISHING
D
uring the fall and winter, there is not a better saltwater game fish to target with a fly rod than redfish. Plentiful throughout the Gulf States, the redfish provides a great fly fishing opportunity for anglers of all skill levels who want to sight fish in shallow clear water. I’ve always considered the redfish to be the perfect saltwater game fish. It offers the angler a perfect venue to hone his or her sightfishing skills. Why? Because of two important factors: accessibility and plentiful fishing opportunity. From a logistical standpoint, most anglers can book a flight for great redfish destinations from most major cities in the U.S. Texas, Louisiana, Alabama and the panhandle of Florida are prime winter redfish spots. Each of these locations has experienced fly fishing guides who are knowledgeable and professional. Access to the marsh flats, where the redfish live in the winter, is quite easy and the number of redfish you see in a day can be mind blowing! Three factors for successful sight fishing to Redfish: 1) Can you see the fish? Visibility is the most important factor when sight fishing in shallow water. It’s great when you have a bluebird day and you’re seeing the fish from 100 yards away. However, Mother Nature usually has her own ideas on conditions. So, being able to identify fish even in tough lighting is important. Look for odd shapes in the water, V shaped wakes or even a subtle dimple that breaks the water’s surface. These are all signs of redfish feeding in an area. TIP: Use yellow polarized lenses. These will provide better contrast under tough lighting conditions. 2. Can I make a short cast? Many redfish are hooked 20 feet or less from the boat. Believe
me, the short cast is the toughest cast to make when sight fishing to redfish. Why? Because we are so focused on perfecting the 60-foot cast and neglect the importance of dropping a cast less than 20 feet from the boat. The 60foot cast is important, but it rarely comes into play when sight fishing to redfish. Work on your short cast as well. TIP: Work on a flip cast. Only cast the head of your fly line at targets on your left and right sides at 10 to 20 feet max. 3) Where should I place the fly? Redfish can see very well. I’ve seen them chase a fly from 20 feet way. However, I find placing a fly a couple feet in front of their noses works best. Once you’ve made the cast, let the fly settle to the bottom. As the redfish moves toward the fly, begin to move the fly with short strips. Once the redfish sees the fly, it will swim over and inhale it. At this point all you have to do is keep the rod tip on the water and strip strike to set the hook. TIP: On an open lawn, place small Frisbees at 5, 10, 20 and 30 feet from your casting position. Work on placing the fly in the center of each Frisbee without a false cast.
For Tackle Box Essentials from Bowman, go to
CAMFLYFISHING.COM
“Now Factory Direct Fort Myers to Tampa ”
Action Craft 2050 GCX (Gulf Coast Crossover)
239-574-7800 www.ActionCraft.com
The perfect combination of a Texas st yle boat and a Florida st yle boat with seating for 5.
facebook.com/ActionCraftBoatsTheOfficalPage 22
NATIONAL
I
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 22
OCTOBER 2017
I
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
9/20/17 2:37 PM
per person per night, double occupancy*
I
enjoy an authentic Florida experience. Like snorkeling for scallops in our crystal waters. You can legally swim and interact with the manatees in the wild. Fish for World-class on Reds, Trout, Tarpon and Fishing dozens of other Florida’s Nature Coast species. Kayak. Dive. Unwind in north our Just a short drive onSpa. the Veterans Guided ScallopinG Expressway/Suncoast Parkway will & BreakfaSt packaGe Or golf 273 Days/2 holes of challenging “Florida” deliver you to a World away. A place Nights where you can kick back, relax and $125 From style fairways. And enjoy more than enjoy an authentic Florida experience. per person per night, double occupancy* Like snorkeling for scallops in our crystal $3 million of our recently renovated waters. You can legally swim and interact with the manatees in the wild. Fish for accommodations, dining and public Reds, Trout, Tarpon and dozens of other Kayak.that Dive. Unwind in our Spa. space. All at affordablespecies. prices won’t Find world-record fishing just outside your Or golf 27 holes of challenging “Florida” break your budget. door at Crystal River with access to the Gulf style fairways. And enjoy more than
n May, Minnesota angler Jake Robinson tied his own catch-and-release state record with a 49-inch flathead catfish from the Minnesota River. Mark Mosby, of St. Anthony, Minn., had apparently seen enough of that mess. In August, he went out on the St. Croix River and hauled in a massive flathead that measured 52 ½ inches in length and 32 inches in girth. Minnesota DNR recently announced that it is the new state record for the catch-and-release category. Actually, Mosby describes himself as an occasional angler. His buddy John Kaiser is the bigcat hunter. Kaiser was the one responsible for $3 million of our recently renovated rigging Mosby up with an 80-pound braid of Mexico. Only 1-1/2 hours west of Orlando, accommodations, dining and public main line and a 40-pound monofilament For Aprices n inshore p lAnTATion you can find a pristine get-away from all the space. F Allish at affordable that won’t slAm in leader specifically for targeting giant catThetohyour ook onfriendly & s norkel For scAllops in T hubbub, at a price that’s break your budget. fish. pAckAge If you’re hooked on fishing & boating, then there’s no bette budget. Plantation on Crystal River features rare “Kudos to my fishing partner John $ 169 Starting From than the Plantation on Crystal River! A hidden gem located o natural treats and amazing Florida Fishing Kaiser for his knot-tying ability,” Mosby per person per night* of Tampa, we offer unrivaled water-lover experiences for th waters on the beautiful Nature Coast. said. “The flathead put up a great 15 minute @ Fish inshore for a slam of Tarpon, Redfish & Trout, plu Fish For An insho p lAnTATion fight right up until he got to the boat, and scAlloping We are the only on The @ Offshore, target Grouper, Snapper, Kings & Cobia to n hook & snorkel For sc p AckAge the knots held true.” official weigh pAckAge @ Freshwater Fishing options include Largemouth Bass If you’re hooked on fishing & boatin with Florida Charm Although weight is not required for the Starting From $ 139 Southern Hospitality $ 169 station on the Starting From @ Snorkel our shallowthan water flats for duri thegrass Plantation on scallops Crystal River! per person per night* catch-and-release record, the fish was estiSouthern Hospitality with Florida Charm See Your Travel Professional or 9301 West Fort Island Trail per night* Tampa, wefor offer Nature Coast per person @ Call Reserve one of ourof rental boats youunrivaled and yourwaterpart mated to weigh about 70 to 80 pounds. The 800-632-6262 Crystal River, Florida 34429 @ from Fish inshore forand a slam of Tarp of Florida! www.PlantationOnCrystalRiver.com @ Launch your own boat our ramp tie up right current record for certified weight of a flatSee Your Travel Professional or availability. scAlloping over 1,600 feet oftosea *Midweek, $150 Weekends. Valid 7/1/12–9/9/12. Subject @wall Offshore, target Grouper, Snap head is 70 pounds. pAckAge Make us your place to Stay & Play along The Nature Call @ Freshwater Fishing optionsCoa inc There are two kinds of Minnesota state Starting golfing, From $nature 139 tours, spa@ treatments andshallow delectable dining Snorkel our water gras records: one for catching and keeping the per person per night* www.PlantationOnCrystalRiver.com including our “cook your catch.” So come for as long or a biggest fish in each species based on certi@ Reserve one of our rental boat or at great savings with our packages. fied weight; and the other for the length of a *Midweek, $150 Weekends. Valid 7/1/12–9/9/12. Subject to availability. @ Launch your own boat from ou See Your Travel Agent, Visit Us Online or Ca over 1,600 feet of sea wall caught and released muskellunge, lake sturTampa Bay Metro summer ad.indd 1 4/18/12 geon or flathead catfish. Make us your place to Stay & Play
800-632-6262
plAnTATion on The hook pAckAge
169
Starting From $ per person per night*
scAlloping pAckAge
139
Starting From $ per person per night*
golfing, nature tours, spa treatmen including our “cook your catch.” So or at great savings with our packag Fish For An inshore slAm in The morning
& snorkel For scAllops in The AFTernoon
See Your Travel Agen
If you’re hooked on fishing & boating, then there’s no better place to cast out your lines than the Plantation on Crystal River! A hidden gem located on the Gulf of Mexico just north of Tampa, we offer unrivaled water-lover experiences for the sportsman or entire family!
Southern Hospitality with Florida Cha
@ Fish inshore for a slam of Tarpon, Redfish & Trout, plus dozens of other species @ Offshore, target Grouper, Snapper, Kings & Cobia to name a few
@ Freshwater Fishing options include Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Crappie & more
9301 W Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, www.PlantationOnCrystalRiver.c
@ Snorkel our shallow water grass flats for scallops during summers @ Reserve one of our rental boats for you and your party
@ Launch your own boat from our ramp and tie up right outside your room with over 1,600 feet of sea wall
Make us your place to Stay & Play along The Nature Coast. You can also enjoy great golfing, nature tours, spa treatments and delectable dining at the West 82 Bar & Grill, including our “cook your catch.” So come for as long or as little as you like, a la carte or at great savings with our packages.
*Subject to availability. Prices per person per night, based on double occ. in a garden-view room; bo See Your Travel Agent, Visit Us Online or Call 800-632-6262 packages also available) & are 2-night midweek stays. Weekends, high season rates may be highe
Tampa Bay Metro summer ad.indd 1
Southern Hospitality with Florida Charm
9301 W Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429 www.PlantationOnCrystalRiver.com *Subject to availability. Prices per person per night, based on double occ. in a garden-view room; both packages include professional guide (non-guided packages also available) & are 2-night midweek stays. Weekends, high season rates may be higher. Tax & gratuity not included. Call for details.
BRUSH
by
BREATH TARTAR
PCR full-pg Fishing ad_final.indd 1
PCR full-pg Fishing ad_final.indd 1
1/11/13 9:23 AM
*Subject to availability. Prices per person per night, based o packages also available) & are 2-night midweek stays. Wee
PLAQUE GUMS
PCR full-pg Fishing ad_final.indd 1
25% OFF USE CODE: CATCH
www.power-pole.com
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 23
4/18
Southern H
9301 W Fort www.P
I
OCTOBER 2017
I
NATIONAL
23
9/20/17 2:37 PM
SUPER COUPON
800+ Stores Nationwide • HarborFreight.com SUPER COUPON
2000 WATT SUPER QUIET INVERTER GENERATOR
21 GALLON, 2.5 HP, 125 PSI VERTICAL OIL-LUBE AIR COMPRESSOR SAVE Customer Rating $49 • Air delivery: 5.8 CFM @ 40 PSI, 4.7 CFM @ 90 PSI
$1 49
SAVE $569
$
99
49999 $999
Compare
Compare
12 VOLT, 2/10/50 AMP BATTERY CHARGER/ENGINE STARTER SAVE 57%
$
9999
$
4999
ITEM 60581/60653 shown
• Accuracy within ±4%
DRIVE ITEM 1/4" 2696/61277/63881 3/8" 807/61276/63880 1/2" 62431/239/63882
$84.97 $
Customer Rating
SAVE 88%
Customer Rating
$999
$
SAVE 59%
$29 ITEM 92623/69474 62861/60626 shown
159
Customer Rating
$129
99
$
SAVE 65%
1499
Cus
Includes one 18V NiCd battery and charger.
ITE
$59.99
ITEM 69651/62868 62873/68239 shown LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
SUPER COUPON
$11
99
$34.40
ITEM 61960/61777 shown
Includes AC/DC adapter and 12 volt DC cigarette lighter plug
600 LB. HEAVY DUTY TRAILER DOLLY
SAVE 46%
Customer Rating
$3999
Compare
$
$
7
ITE
Compare
ITEM 37510/60533/69898 shown LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating 12 VOLT MAGNETIC 100 WATT SOLAR PANEL KIT Customer Rating 7 FT. 4" x 9 FT. 6" ALL PURPOSE WEATHER TOWING LIGHT KIT SAVE $227 RESISTANT TARP SAVE SAVE 65%
Customer Rating
$
5999 $74.95
LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
SUPER COUPON
SA 6
71%
Cus Compare
$9
99
LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
$
1899
Compare
$34.95
ITEM 63100
Customer Rating 4 PIECE, 1" x 15 FT. RATCHETING TIE DOWNS
SAVE 80%
$
RENEWABLE ENERGY, ANYWHERE
Compare
SIZE MED LG X-LG
$699
99
$349 ITEM 62668
NATIONAL I OCTOBER 2017 LIMIT 8 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 24 hft_coastalangler_1017_spread_M-REG109348.indd 2-3
I
$ Compare
39999
$489.99
4
$ 99 ITEM 69249/69115/69137 69129/69121/877 shown
ITEM 68496/61363 68497/61360 68498/61359
YOUR CHOICE
$5
99
SAVE 53% Customer Rating
7
$ 99 Compare $12.99
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18* LIMIT 9 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
$299
LIMIT 9 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
SUPER COUPON
600 LB. CAPACITY POWDER-FREE BOAT TRAILER NITRILE GLOVES PACK OF 100
SAVE $140
$8.58
LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating
99
$377.56
• 5 mil thickness
ITEM 90984/63056/63057/63094/63150/61524 shown
189 $149 99
ITEM 63585
LIMIT 9 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
SUPER COUPON
24
19
SAVE 71%
99
Compare
Compare
$73.49
Customer Rating
ITEM 93454/69054/63395/62603 shown
Compare 99 $298.99
$34.95
3999
60" HARDWOOD WORKBENCH WITH 4 DRAWERS
LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
SUPER COUPON
$
$
LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
$10999
1299
ITE
SUPER COUPON
$1699
3 WATT LED RECHARGEABLE CORDLESS SPOTLIGHT
99 Compare $395
ITEM 63418/63419/63417/62656/67646/62514 shown
$
$2
7" VARIABLE SPEED 18 VOLT CORDLESS Customer Rating POLISHER/SANDER 3/8" DRILL/DRIVER WITH KEYLESS CHUCK
SUPER COUPON
Tools sold separately.
Versatile - 23 configurations Safe + Secure + Stable Super strong - Holds 300 lbs. Weighs 35 lbs.
Compare
LIMIT 1 coupon per customer per day. Save 20% on any 1 item purchased. *Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or any of the following items or brands: Inside Track Club membership, Extended Service Plan, gift card, open box item, 3 day Parking Lot Sale item, compressors, floor jacks, saw mills, storage cabinets, chests or carts, trailers, trenchers, welders, Admiral, Bauer, Cobra, CoverPro, Daytona, Earthquake, Hercules, Jupiter, Lynxx, Poulan, Predator, StormCat, Tailgator, Viking, Vulcan, Zurich. Not valid on prior purchases. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 2/1/18.
SUPER COUPON
SAVE $265
YOUR CHOICE
1999
17 FT. TYPE IA MULTI-TASK LADDER
139
LIMIT 1 - Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or prior purchase. Coupon good at our stores, HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Offer good while supplies last. Shipping & Handling charges may apply if not picked up in-store. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 2/1/18. Limit one FREE GIFT coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
Item 239 shown
LIMIT 8 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
$
ITEM 69030/69031 shown
LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
TORQUE WRENCHES Customer Rating
$2999
Compare
$69.99
SUPER COUPON
SAVE $189
ANY SINGLE ITEM
99
LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
• • • •
6
VALUE
SAVE $99
ITEM 63255/63254 shown
Compare
1" x 25 FT. TAPE MEASURE
SUPER COUPON
• 1.3 GPM • Adjustable spray nozzle
$179.33
ANY PURCHASE
$ 99
Customer Rating
$7999
WITH
Custo
LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating
20% OFF
FREE
99
ITEM 61169 ITEM 62523 shown, CALIFORNIA ONLY
$199
LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
1750 PSI PRESSURE WASHER
Customer Rating
$429
99
179
ITEM 69091 $ 61454 62803/63635 67847 shown Compare
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
Item 68498 shown
SUPER COUPON Customer Rating
ITE
Cus
TRIPLE BALL TRAILER HITCH
SAVE 53%
$1
$1 9
99
$
3199
Compare
$42.98
ITEM 61914
LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
9/20/17 2:37 PM
ITE
ON
%
F
NY GLE EM
annot be ack Club ale item, enchers, Jupiter, on prior h 2/1/18.
10 FT. x 20 FT. 30", 5 DRAWER TOOL CART PORTABLE CAR CANOPY • 8100 cu. in. of storage
Customer Rating
• 704 lb. capacity • Weighs 120 lbs.
Compare
$205.99
$
12999
17
99 Compare $60
to
8
ft.
$64
99
$
79
10 "
7999 $19999
$
$1799
ITEM 68862/63190/62896 shown
• Laser guide
$599
Compare
$
$39.94
29
99
Compare
ITEM 62340/62546/63104/96289 shown
$28.06
$
29
99
LIMIT 9 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
Compare
$39.99
$
Compare ITEM 62314/63066/66383 shown
LOADING RAMP
$57.55
ALL TCH
• 1500 lb. capacity
6.5 HP (212 CC) OHV HORIZONTAL SHAFT GAS ENGINE
SAVE $70 Compare
$149.99 $
99
99
$79
ITEM 69595/60334/90018 shown LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
99
ITEM 62515 66911 shown
SUPER COUPON Customer Rating
Compare
ITEM 64037/63155 shown
SUPER COUPON
ITEM 62749 Compare
SAVE 60%
$999
7999
99 9 6 $ $84.19
4-1/2" ANGLE GRINDER
Customer Rating
Compare
$24.98 $
ITEM 69645/60625 shown
LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
1499
LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
SUPER COUPON
130 PIECE TOOL KIT WITH CASE
SUPER COUPON
MOVER'S DOLLY
Customer Rating
Customer Rating
• 1000 lb. capacity
SAVE $69
11999 SAVE 230
$329.99
4999 $199.99
LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
SAVE 16%
$9999 $
SAVE $160
$3999
SUPER COUPON
$
LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
Customer Rating TRI-FOLD ALUMINUM
Customer Rating
Compare
LIMIT 6 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
99
SUPER COUPON
ITEM 69505/62418 66537 shown
SUPER COUPON
FULL-MOTION TV WALL MOUNT
• Fits most 37" to 80"
• 350 lb. capacity
$1 9
$17.97
$1 999
SAVE 65%
1399
SAVE 66%
LIMIT 9 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
1500 WATT DUAL Customer Rating STEP STOOL/ JUMP STARTERAND POWER PACK TEMPERATURE HEAT GUN WORKING PLATFORM Customer Rating (572°/1112°)
$
8
$ 99
Compare
ITEM 61969/61970/69684 shown
SUPER COUPON
2599
SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating
72" x 80" MOVING BLANKET
Blade sold separately.
SUPER COUPON
$8
SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating
Customer Rating
LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
99
ITEM 62835
LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
SUPER COUPON
HEAVY DUTY FOLDABLE ALUMINUM SAVE SPORTS CHAIR 50%
ITEM 69780/41005 shown
LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
$249.99
LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
SAVE 54%
Customer Rating
Compare 99 $99.98 SAVE $34
SAVE 67%
Compare
Compare
SUPER COUPON
• Height range: 12-1/2" to 24"
11999
$12999
LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
Customer Rating
AVE 5%
14
$229.99 $
Compare ITEM 69265/62344/93897 shown
SAVE $160
SAVE $169
$299
7 AMP ELECTRIC POLE SAW 1000 LB. CAPACITY 9.5" BAR SWING-BACK TRAILER JACK ft.
$
ITEM 68053/62160 62496/62516/60569 shown LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
$59
SUPER COUPON
6
Compare
$109.99
Compare
99
SAVE $170
Customer Rating
$8999
Customer Rating
LIMIT 9 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
ing
98
$59
17999 $1150
$999
1/2" HEAVY DUTY COMPOSITE PRO 950 TORQUE AIR IMPACT WRENCH FT. LBS. BOLT BREAKAWAY
Customer Rating
3/8" x 50 FT. RETRACTABLE 12" SLIDING COMPOUND AIR HOSE REEL DOUBLE-BEVEL Customer Rating MITER SAW
SAVE 83%
ITEM 62281/61637 shown
• 3-1/2 Pumps Lifts Most Vehicles • Lifts from 3-1/2" to 14-1/8" • Lightweight 34 lbs.
SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating 29 PIECE TITANIUM DRILL BIT SET
SUPER COUPON
SAVE $50
RAPID PUMP® 1.5 TON ALUMINUM RACING JACK
LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
SUPER COUPON
$
SUPER COUPON
99 $ 7999
ITEM 61427/63308/69397/95272 shown
LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
UTY LLY
UPON
$
ITEM 63054/62858 shown
UPON
9
SAVE $990
$15999
$9999
ting
ating
Customer Rating
SAVE $106
PER UPON
N
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
$
ITEM 60363/69730 ITEM 69727 shown, CALIFORNIA ONLY LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
Compare $99 $
38
69
99
$29
ITEM 64080/63248/68998/63091 shown LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
$
$7
99
1099
Compare
SAVE
$19.97 59%
ITEM 61899/62399/63095/63096 63098/63097/93888 shown LIMIT 9 - Coupon valid through 2/1/18*
At Harbor Freight Tools, the “Compare” or “comp at” price means that the same item or a similar functioning item was advertised for sale at 800+ Stores Nationwide or HarborFreight.com COASTALANGLERMAG.COM I inOCTOBER NATIONAL 25 or above • theTHEANGLERMAG.COM “Compare” or “comp at” price by another retailer the U.S. within the 2017 past 180 days.I Prices advertised by others may vary by
*Original coupon only. No use on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase or without original receipt. Valid through 2/1/18.
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 25
location. No other meaning of “Compare” or "comp at" should be implied. For more information, go to HarborFreight.com or see store associate.
9/20/17 9/8/17 2:37 2:32 PM
SUZUKI MAKES IT
EASY AS
1-2-3
The leaves might be falling, but the deals are just starting to spring up at your Suzuki Marine dealer. Make your best Fall Boat Show deal on a new Suzuki outboard from 25 to 300 horsepower and take advantage of not just one, but all three special Suzuki offers. See your Suzuki Marine dealer today and get on the water with a powerful, reliable new Suzuki.
REPOWER FINANCE
1.
2.
Six Years of Protection at no extra charge on all new outboards 25 to 300 HP.
Cash Rebates on select models. See your dealer for details.
3. Rates as low as 5.99% on new Suzuki outboards (OAC).*
Gimme Six Extended Protection promo is applicable to new Suzuki Outboard Motors from 25 to 300 HP in inventory which are sold and delivered to buyer between 9/01/17 and 12/31/17 in accordance with the promotion by a Participating Authorized Suzuki Marine dealer in the continental US and Alaska to a purchasing customer who resides in the continental US or Alaska. Customer should expect to receive an acknowledgement letter and full copy of contract including terms, conditions and wallet card from Suzuki Extended Protection within 90 days of purchase. If an acknowledgement letter is not received in time period stated, contact Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. – Marine Marketing via email: marinepromo@suz.com. The Gimme Six Promotion is available for pleasure use only, and is not redeemable for cash. Cash Rebates apply to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki Outboard Motors made between 9/01/17 and 12/31/17. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine.com. Customer and participating Dealer must fill out the appropriate rebate form at time of sale. Cash rebate will be applied against the original dealer invoice (Suzuki will credit Dealer parts account). There are no model substitutions, benefit substitutions, rain checks, or extensions. Suzuki reserves the right to change or cancel these promotions at any time without notice or obligation. * Financing offers available through Synchrony Retail Finance. As low as 5.99% APR financing for 60 months on new and unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors. Subject to credit approval. Not all buyers will qualify. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. $19.99/month per $1,000 financed for 60 months is based on 5.99% APR. Hypothetical figures used in calculation; your actual monthly payment may differ based on financing terms, credit tier qualification, accessories or other factors such as down payment and fees. Offer effective on new, unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors purchased from a participating authorized Suzuki dealer between 9/01/17 and 12/31/17. “Gimme Six”, the Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2017 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.
26
NATIONAL
I
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 26 SZ_Q4Promo_1PG.indd 1
OCTOBER 2017
I
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
9/20/17 2:37 PM 9/8/17 2:55 PM
COMMON CVRS_1017.indd 3
9/18/17 3:24 PM
COMMON CVRS_1017.indd 4
9/18/17 3:24 PM