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POMPANO
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Smooth Sailing
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navigating peace of mind
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THE IMPORTANCE OF BOAT INSURANCE
Embarking on the open water is an exhilarating experience, flled with the promise of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a weekend cruiser, protecting your vessel with proper insurance is not just a choice—it’s a necessity. Explore the reasons why every boat owner should prioritize boat insurance for a worry-free voyage.
Unpredictable waters
The open water can be unpredictable, with unexpected storms, collisions, or other potential accidents. Boat insurance can give you fnancial protection if there is damage to your vessel, providing coverage for repairs or replacement.
Damage and injury
Accidents on the water can result in damage to other boats, docks, or even injuries to passengers. Boat insurance offers liability coverage, which can pay for damages or injuries you’re liable for while boating, up to specifed limits, and lawsuit costs if you’re sued. This includes damage you cause to another watercraft or if someone on or near your boat is injured and you’re found to be legally responsible.
Theft and vandalism
Unfortunately, boat theft and vandalism are realities that boat owners face. Boat insurance has comprehensive and collision coverage that can protect you against events outside of your control, including theft and vandalism.
Incurred medical payments
Accidents on the water may lead to injuries for you or your passengers. Boat insurance offers a range of optional medical payments coverage limits, helping to cover medical expenses if you are in an accident or someone is hurt on your boat, regardless of fault.
Peace of mind for fnancing
If you fnanced the purchase of your boat, most lenders require insurance coverage to protect their investment. Having boat insurance not only fulflls these requirements but also gives you peace of mind knowing that your fnancial interests are safeguarded.
Navigational fexibility
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Some water municipalities and marinas may require proof of insurance for docking or accessing certain areas. Boat insurance allows you the fexibility to explore different destinations without worrying about entry restrictions.
Emergency towing and assistance
Progressive boat insurance can include optional Sign & Glide® On-Water Towing coverage. If your boat is disabled or breaks down on the water, Sign & Glide® pays for on-water towing, jump starts, soft un-groundings, and fuel delivery.
Wreckage removal
If your boat sinks, Progressive boat insurance will cover the cost of removing your boat from the water (if removal is legally required).
Investing in boat insurance is not just about protecting a valuable asset; it’s about safeguarding the memories, experiences, and joy that come with your on-water adventures. Don’t let unforeseen circumstances disrupt your journey—navigate with confdence, knowing that Progressive boat insurance has you covered. Ensure a smooth and worry-free voyage, because when it comes to your boat, peace of mind is the ultimate luxury.
Scan to get a quote in as little as 4 minutes
learn more.
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DESTINATION FISHING
By Ben Martin, Editor in Chief
Fishing is a beloved pastime that transcends borders, drawing anglers to new destinations around the globe. Whether it’s the thrill of chasing trophy !sh, exploring pristine environments, or immersing oneself in local cultures, traveling to !sh o ers a unique and enriching experience. But why do so many anglers feel compelled to venture far from their home waters to cast a line? Here are some key reasons behind this phenomenon.
For many anglers, the chance to catch a once-in-a-lifetime !sh is a driving force behind their travels. Di erent regions are home to speci!c species that can’t be found elsewhere. For example, the tarpon-rich waters of the Florida Keys, the salmon runs in Alaska, or the giant trevally in the Seychelles all serve as magnets for anglers. e challenge of targeting these iconic species and the bragging rights that come with landing them o en justify the journey.
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requires anglers to adapt and learn. Di erent locations come with unique !shing techniques, such as y !shing in Montana’s rivers, jigging for tuna in o shore waters, or using traditional handlines in tropical locales. Each trip is an opportunity to
friends and family or encounters with local guides and fellow anglers. ese interactions create lasting memories and a sense of camaraderie that extends beyond borders. In turn, the stories and photos from these adventures become cherished mementos, sparking conversations and inspiring others to pursue their own !shing journeys.
Magazine and its digital magazine Magazine have always tried to bring you news and awareness about exotic !shing destinations around the world. Your trips and adventures are an integral part of our monthly compilation process. Your photos, videos and stories about your !shing trips are always welcomed here.
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acquire new skills, re!ne existing ones, and deepen one’s appreciation for the art and science of !shing.
Fishing in new destinations allows anglers to experience a variety of ecosystems, each with its unique beauty and challenges. From tranquil mountain streams and sprawling freshwater lakes to turquoise saltwater ats and deep ocean trenches, the diversity of !shing environments is staggering. is variety not only enhances the adventure but also broadens an angler’s understanding of aquatic habitats and their importance to global biodiversity.
Traveling to new !shing destinations o en
Fishing inherently fosters a deep connection with nature, but traveling ampli!es this experience. Anglers o en !nd themselves in remote, untouched locations where the tranquility and beauty of the natural world are at their peak. is immersion provides a welcome escape from the stresses of daily life and fosters a sense of mindfulness and gratitude.
Fishing trips o en bring people together, whether it’s through shared experiences with
For many anglers, !shing is more than a sport—it’s an adventure. Traveling to new destinations satis! human desire to explore the unknown and conquer its challenges. Whether it’s navigating unfamiliar waters, encountering unpredictable weather, or matching wits with elusive !sh, each trip is a thrilling chapter in an angler’s personal story. e reasons anglers travel to as diverse as the destinations they seek. From the pursuit of trophy catches to the joy of exploring new landscapes, each journey o ers a blend of excitement, education, and enrichment. For those who !sh, the world is not just a playground but a treasure trove of opportunities waiting to be discovered. So, pack your gear, book that trip, and embrace the adventure—the next big catch might be just a plane ride away.
To submit your catch photos, videos or stories, email editorial@coastalanglermagazine.com.
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You want new charts?
You got new charts! Explore the ocean with vibrant terrain & depth shading, using all-new TZ MAPS. Don’t just take our word for it. See for yourself. Scan here, and we’ll show you!
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Catching an Unexpected Trophy in the Atlantic
What started as a morning of unproductive wahoo trolling north of St. Augustine turned into an unforgettable battle with one of Florida’s most prized catches. Capt. Daniel Levesque and his crew aboard Rare Breed had spent hours searching for wahoo, battling against an uncooperative west wind, when they decided to switch tactics.
“A er passing over endless schools of blue runners and proli!c bottom structure, I pulled into a spot that had previously produced wahoo,” recalls Capt. Daniel. “ e sonar was marking !sh from top to bottom.”
By Brandon Shoaf
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As two anglers at the bow dropped sabiki rigs to collect live bait, their lines became hopelessly entangled. While the captain worked to untangle the mess of braided line, angler Mike Lorenz noticed something interesting on the sonar screen. He dropped down an old, paint-worn butter y jig to about 60 feet.
“It got hit by what felt like a train,” Lorenz describes. “ e conventional reel was screaming. At !rst, I thought I had a shark, but it felt di erent.” e mystery !sh made several blistering runs, nearly spooling Lorenz’s reel multiple times. e battle switched between long runs and deep, powerful dives under the boat. “It felt more like !ghting a huge grouper when it was beneath us,” says Lorenz. “I think both the !sh and I were taking breaks between rounds.”
Capt. Daniel maneuvered the boat to help chase down the !sh. A er an
THE PORTABLE MFS
9.9/15/20
These compact yet powerful engines have all the features you would expect to see on larger outboards, such as bettery-less EFI technology, multi-function tiller handle* and a large displacement porviding outstandng power. All while maintaining lightest in its class, quiet opetration and ease of portability.
intense !ght, a massive silver ash appeared near the surface, prompting the captain to shout “AP!” e prize—a massive African pompano—was !nally secured with a well-placed ga shot by Capt. Daniel. e crew gathered for photos, marveling at their spectacular trophy, a testament to both the !sh’s size and the memorable nature of the catch.
What began as a “cursed” day of wahoo !shing transformed into the catch of a lifetime, proving once again that sometimes the best !shing stories come when plans go sideways and anglers remain ready for whatever opportunity presents itself.
Brandon Shoaf is Co-Publisher of Coastal Angler Magazine’s Volusia County edition. Contact him at (386) 260-9600 or volusia@coastalanglermagazine.com.
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*Tiller Models Only.
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ALAB MA GULF COAST Welcome To
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WHERE TO FIND
BALDWIN COUNTY
BASS PRO SHOP
BALDWIN WELCOME CENTER
BLUE GILL RESTAURANT
OYSTER HOUSE RESTAURANT CAUSEWAY
R&R SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
FELIX’S FISH CAMP GRILL
ROBERTSDALE WALMART
MOMENTUM MARINE & RV
BRUNSON’S NET SUPPLY
FOLEY WALMART
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ACADEMY - FOLEY
BOW BLUE WATER MARINE SERVICE
PARADISE MARINE CENTER
BEACH BUM OUTDOOR
SAUNDERS YACHT WORKS
GULF SHORES WALMART
HOOKED UP BAIT & TACKLE
LARTIQUE’S ORIGINAL FRESH SEAFOOD
LOST BAY TACKLE & GUIDE SERVICE
ZEKE’S MARINA
MOBILE COUNTY
GRAND BAY WELCOME CENTER
KRAVERS SEAFOOD
TACKLE THIS SHOOT THAT
GUNPORT ACADEMY
DAUPHIN ISLAND WELCOME CENTER
CHEVRON- DAUPHIN ISLAND
SHIP & SHORE
UJ CHEVROLET
FORD LUMBER
ALABAMA AQUARIUM
JEMISON’S BAIT & TACKLE
GREER’S MARKET- DAUPHIN ISLAND
MIDDLE BAY BOAT CO.
EZN DETAIL & STORAGE
RECREATIONAL SALES & SERVICE
SOUTHERN-BAMA BAIT & TACKLE
DOG RIVER MARINA & BOAT WORKS
DIP SEAFOOD MUDBUGS
WAYMAKERS MARINE
GEORGE’S WATER SPORTS
SAN ROC CAY MARINA
ORANGE BEACH MARINA
SAFE HARBOR SPORTSMAN MARINA
GRANDER MARINE
SAM’S STOP & SHOP
J&M TACKLE
WEST MARINE ORANGE BEACH
THE WHARF STORE
EMERALD COAST MARINE
WEST MARINE
WIGMAN’S ACE HARDWARE
CAJUN CORNER
ACADEMY- FESTIVAL CENTER
LARTIQUE’S ON THE HILL
A-1 TIRE
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EEmpowering Lives Through the Great Outdoors
By Alona Thompson
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mpowering Lives Through the Great OutdoorsL Since its founding in 2017, Disabled Outdoorsmen USA has made a profound impact on countless lives by harnessing the healing power of nature. This remarkable organization is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where individuals of all abilities can enjoy the beauty and adventure of the great outdoors.
At the heart of Disabled Outdoorsmen USA’s mission is the commitment to providing life-changing experiences for those who might otherwise have limited opportunities to engage in outdoor activities. The program is designed to break down barriers and offer unforgettable moments that inspire, uplift, and empower.
For more info, please visit www.alabamadousa.com.
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“Our goal is to help individuals take their minds off daily challenges and immerse themselves in the tranquility and excitement of the natural world,” the organization shares. This passion for service is the driving force behind their efforts, creating a supportive community where everyone can experience the joy and healing of outdoor adventures.
With each outing, Disabled Outdoorsmen USA continues to transform lives, proving that nature’s wonders are for everyone.
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Performance Bulletin Available
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Mastry Engine Center has received the Suzuki Marine Super Service Award and has been ranked #1 in Suzuki Marine US Sales!
Repower packages designed to best fit your needs and not stretch your budget. Financing available.
Suzuki RePowers through 140HP include a 5-year factory warranty,150HP and up include a 7-year factory warranty
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Tiny Toms: A Parent’s Guide to Taking Kids Turkey Hunting
By: Jackie Howell
urkey hunting can be a rewarding experience for young hunters, fostering a connection with nature and teaching important outdoor skills. However, getting kids into the field requires careful planning and preparation. Here are some tips to ensure a successful and enjoyable
Before hitting the field, make sure your child understands firearm safety. Teach them about the importance of keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, keeping their finger off the trigger, and identifying their target clearly. It’s essential they feel comfortable and responsible with their weapon.
Choose the Right Gear - Lightweight, well-fitting clothing is key, especially in varying weather conditions. Opt for camouflage that suits the environment, and ensure their boots are comfortable for walking. If they’re using a firearm, make sure it’s age-appropriate and easy for them to handle.
Kids may not have the same endurance as adults, so be prepared to spend more time resting or explaining the hunt. Bring snacks, games, and a comfortable chair to keep them entertained during slow moments. Patience is key—turkey hunting often requires long periods of
Remember, the goal is to introduce kids to the joys of the outdoors. Share the beauty of the woods, the thrill of spotting wildlife, and the excitement of the hunt, rather than focusing solely on success. Positive experiences will keep them coming back for more!
Turkey hunting with kids can create lifelong memories, building skills and appreciation for nature while fostering a love of the outdoors.
Please Visit ROI’s Website (www.risingoutdoorinitiative.org) for more information or to apply for an outdoor experience.
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PASCAGOULA MS
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NOT YOUR AVERAGE NOT YOUR AVERAGE BOAT
SHOW BOAT SHOW
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USS ALABAMA BATTLESHP MEMORIAL PARK MOBILE, AL
USS ALABAMA BATTLESHP MEMORIAL PARK MOBILE, AL
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Presented By Presented By
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EZN Detail Wins IDA’s ‘Operation of the Year’—A Dream Come True for a Hardworking Team
For the team at EZN Detail, detailing has never just been about making cars shine—it’s about setting a standard, pushing limits, and building something they can be proud of. Since opening in 2017, they’ve put in the long hours, embraced the challenges, and committed to being the best at what they do. And last month, that dedication paid off in a big way when EZN Detail was named “Operation of the Year” by the International Detailing Association (IDA).
Winning this award is a huge deal in the detailing world. It’s not something handed out lightly—it’s reserved for operations that demonstrate exceptional quality, leadership, and impact on the industry. For Dustin Jackson, owner of EZN Detail, the recognition was less about the business and more about the incredible people behind it.
“This award means the world to our team. They have all worked so hard to get to this point, and I could not be more proud of their growth and dedication. They truly deserved this.”
And if you know the EZN Detail crew, you know this isn’t just talk. They show up every day, rain or shine, committed to delivering top-notch results for their customers. They don’t cut corners, and they don’t take shortcuts—they take pride in every vehicle that comes through their shop.
To celebrate the achievement, the team packed up and traveled to Orlando, Florida, to accept the award in person. Walking onto that stage, in front of some of the biggest names in the industry, was a surreal moment—a culmination of years of effort, passion, and drive.
For EZN Detail, this award isn’t just a trophy on the shelf. It’s proof that hard work pays off. It’s validation for the late nights, the early mornings, the sweat, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. And if you think this is their peak? Think again. This is just another step in their journey to redefine what it means to be the best in the business.
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by: Madison Richey, IGL
Coastings USA
For many, a first job is just a means to an end—a way to get through college, pay some bills, and move on to something else. But for Hannah DeJonge, what started as a job in yacht restoration quickly became something much more. What drew her in wasn’t just the work itself, but the satisfaction of a job well done, the variety of people she met, and the fast-paced nature of the industry. Even as a teenager, she knew she had found something special. What she didn’t know at the time was that this “college job” would eventually lead her to launching Fresh Water Detailing, a business built on passion, precision, and an unwavering work ethic.
Like many entrepreneurs, Hannah’s path wasn’t linear. She spent years managing yacht detailing companies and working at a local marina before realizing something wasn’t right—she felt bored and unchallenged. She wanted more, and if this was the career she was going to commit to, she knew she had to make it her own. So, she took a leap of faith, left her job, and started her own detailing business. There was no backup plan, no safety net—just sheer determination. “Failure was not an option,” she says. “I gave it everything I had to make it work.”
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Now, Fresh Water Detailing has made a name for itself by focusing on what truly matters—a seamless customer experience, jaw-dropping transformations, and the small, thoughtful details that make a big impact. Hannah and her team don’t just clean boats; they create an experience. When a customer steps onto their freshly waxed boat, it doesn’t just look good—it feels good. Everything from the smoothness of the surface to the scent of the cleaners used in enclosed spaces contributes to that “new boat” feeling. They even go the extra mile to tidy up dock lines, clear away spider webs, and ensure that the entire environment is spotless. “It may seem small, but all the small things add up to a great overall experience,” she explains.
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Detailer Spotlight
While success stories like Hannah’s are inspiring, they don’t come without challenges. One of her biggest obstacles wasn’t about mastering techniques or running a business—it was about building confidence. “I was confident in my work, but walking into new places and introducing myself was daunting,” she admits. But she knew that if she wanted to grow, she had to push herself. “I forced myself into those situations, and over time, it got easier. My own worst obstacle was truly all in my head.”
Looking back, if she could give her younger self one piece of advice, it would be this: Don’t sweat the small stuff. The stress of running a business can be overwhelming, and burnout is real. Learning how to separate work from home life was crucial to maintaining balance. “You have to be able to find peace after a hard day,” she says, a lesson that many entrepreneurs can relate to.
As for what’s next? Hannah is always keeping an eye on industry trends, but she’s not one to jump on every new fad. She prefers to watch from a distance, only investing in new products or techniques once they’ve been proven effective. Continuous learning is important, and she believes in attending different training events each year to sharpen her skills and stay ahead of the curve. But her long-term vision goes beyond just improving her own business—she wants to help others get into the marine detailing industry. Training aspiring detailers is a goal she hopes to achieve, passing down the same knowledge and passion that helped her build Fresh Water Detailing into what it is today.
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Hannah’s story is one that many business owners can see themselves in—the uncertainty, the struggle, the determination to succeed against all odds. But what sets her apart is her unwavering commitment to excellence, not just in the work she does, but in the way she runs her business. She didn’t just build a career; she built a brand that reflects her values, her passion, and her drive to always be better. Fresh Water Detailing isn’t just about making boats shine—it’s about building something bigger, one detail at a time.
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By Madison Richey
There’s nothing quite like a Kansas sunrise, a blind full of women, and the thrill of calling in ducks. The All-Girls Hunt at Dixie 6 Outfitters in Great Bend, Kansas, isn’t just about waterfowl—it’s about friendships, laughter, and a shared passion for the outdoors.
“I love this hunt because of the relationships that are built,” says Ashton Black. “Girls come from all over the U.S., whether they’re seasoned hunters or just getting started. The guides at Dixie 6 Outfitters make sure everyone, no matter their experience level, feels confident in the blind.”
The rush of watching birds drop in, the chaos of a good volley, and the celebration that follows—it’s what makes the hunt unforgettable. But for Ashton, the real magic happens after the guns are put away.
“The best part? The fellowship at the end of the day. Sitting around the lodge, eating, swapping stories—it’s just as fun as the hunt itself.”
It’s not just about pulling the trigger—it’s about the memories made along the way. Whether it’s the first duck or the hundredth, every hunt is different, and every hunt leaves a story to tell. That’s what keeps these women coming back year after year.
Beyond the camaraderie, there’s something empowering about an all-girls hunt. Waterfowl hunting has long been seen as a male-dominated sport, but hunts like this prove that women belong in the blind just as much as anyone else. It’s a chance to break stereotypes, build confidence, and show that passion for the outdoors knows no gender.
Thanks to EZN Outfitters, the girls took home more than just memories. Each hunter got a Mossy Oak-branded t-shirt, a little something to remind them of the experience.
Dixie 6 Outfitters is known for top-tier hunts for all—families, guys, kids, and women alike. But the all-girls hunt? That’s a special kind of tradition. And one that keeps getting better every year.
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Invaders in Our Waters: The Battle for Alabama’s Aquatic Ecosystems
By: Jackie Howell
The Mobile-Tensaw Delta, a treasure trove of biodiversity and a haven for fishing, is under siege from an unexpected foe. This “diversity hotspot” isn’t just a prime fishing location; it is a critical buffer zone that protects our coast, supports our local economy, and provides a home to countless plants and animals found nowhere else in the world. However, a silent invader threatens the delicate balance of this system beneath the surface: non-native aquatic plants. Imagine casting your line into a thick, tangled mat of weeds instead of clear, open water. This scenario quickly becomes a reality when invasive plants like hydrilla take over. These unwelcome guests can choke out native plants, disrupt fish habitats, and alter entire ecosystems.
To understand the Science Behind the Invasion, the University of South Alabama’s Drs. Molly Miller (Assistant Professor, Marine & Environmental Sciences), Kelly Major (Professor, Biology), and Tim Sherman (Professor Emeritus, Biology) are diving deep into why these invaders are so successful by comparing our native tape grass to the aggressive hydrilla. Their results are eye-opening. It turns out hydrilla has plant superpowers. The invader can adapt to harsh conditions, thriving in low light and absorbing nutrients faster than other plants to form dense shading mats! Additionally, unlike tape grass, hydrilla grows year-round. When spring rains bring nutrients, hydrilla explodes with growth, outpacing native plants. Even in the scorching summer heat, when other plants struggle, hydrilla keeps growing thanks to its unparalleled rates of productivity.
What This Means for Anglers is that as hydrilla spreads, favorite fishing holes might look different. Dense plant growth can snag lines and tangle propellers. Fish might behave differently or even move to new areas as their environment shifts with changes in habitat structure provided by aquatic plants. Unwittingly, anglers may even contribute to hydrilla’s spread by transporting plant fragments on their gear to other bodies of water.
As Protectors of Our Waters, anglers and outdoorsmen play a crucial role in preventing plant invasions. By understanding the threat and supporting conservation efforts, you can help preserve the Delta’s unique ecosystem for future generations of fishermen and nature lovers. Remember, a healthy Delta means better fishing, cleaner water, and a thriving coastal community. Keep your eyes on the water and lines ready for the next big catch – while ensuring our native plants have a fighting chance.
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BRAG BOARD MARCH 2025
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Will
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Begnaud Orange Beach, AL- Peacock Bass fishing in the Everglades over winter vacation
alden jackson On the Gulf State Pier, look at that Redfish!
Troy Wise w/ gabby & maddy spegal making smiles, catching catfish in Perdido Bay, Bear Point
Brad Warren Sheepshead caught in Gulf Shores
Sara Long from Gulf Shores, AL on a vacation in Cabo San Lucas, caught a 70-pound Wahoo!
jack moran
Black Drum caught in Gulf Shores
brookes moore in the Gulf of America, look at that Hammerhead Shark!
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SPRING SHAD: IT’S MARCH MADNESS
I’ve been incredibly blessed to !sh with some of the best anglers on the planet, guiding me through my journey. To complete that journey, I always keep a couple of rods in my truck, ready to !sh farm ponds, lakes, and rivers during my travels as a Boat Li US salesman. It brings me back to my roots.
Last month marked my 64th birthday, and I !nd myself enjoying the simple !shing of my youth more and more. Don’t get me wrong—I still love a gag grouper or wahoo bite like Peter loved our Lord—but I also love catching whatever is in season. March can be a slow month for nearshore and o shore !shing, making it the perfect time to switch focus to hickory and white (American) shad in our rivers.
Tim Barefoot
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their birth. eir migration mirrors that of Paci!c salmon, using an innate
learning their seasons over the years. Hickory shad arrive !rst—smaller but plentiful—making them perfect for introducing kids to !shing with non-stop action. When the larger white shad show up, it’s game on. ese !sh pull hard in the cold water, !ghting until the moment you unhook them.
I strongly recommend mashing down the barbs on your hooks to make dehooking easier. Let’s be honest—most anglers aren’t eating shad, so reducing injury before release just makes sense. Also, always wear eye protection when !shing for these powerful !sh. A jig popping free near the boat can come ying back at the angler, as my son learned the hard way in a recent trip to the James River.
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ese !sh are truly amazing. ey leave the coastal rivers of the eastern U.S., migrate to Nova Scotia, take a hard right into deep waters, then journey back south to spawn in the rivers of
GPS to !nd their way home. ey travel in vast schools, surviving intense predation, just to return to their spawning grounds.
Knowing this, I position myself to take full advantage of this mass migration. I !sh for shad in Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina,
FISHING IS BETTER IN
White shad will be in rivers all the way down to Florida this month, so if you’re looking for a fun !ght on light tackle, now is the time. Check out my YouTube channel for the tackle and techniques I use to catch these childhood favorites. And, as always, take plenty of videos of your kids—they’ll cherish those memories later in life.
For more from Tim Barefoot, visit barefootcatsandtackle.com and check out his YouTube channel.
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May 9th & 10th, 2025
Online Registration: MothersDayDolphinTournament.com
Captain’s Meeting
Liechty Marine
Friday May 9th - 6pm to 7pm
Lines In: Saturday, May 10 - 7:30am
Lines Out: Saturday, May 10 - 3:30pm
Weigh-In
Curly’s Co ee
Saturday, May 10th - 3:30pm to 6pm
Awards Banquet
Marathon Yacht Club
Saturday, May 10th - 7pm
Sunday Honor
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A PRO FISHING A BIG WORM FOR SPAWNING BASS
From February through April, bass ood the shallows to spawn, creating an exciting opportunity for anglers to catch monster !sh. While various techniques can be e ective, !shing with a big worm consistently tempts big, wary females. is method has proven successful nationwide, not just in the South.
Fishing a worm may not be the most thrilling technique, but it allows for a slow, precise presentation—ideal for enticing cautious bass. e key is patience and targeting highpercentage areas where these !sh are likely holding.
One e ective technique is casting a Texasrigged stick bait. Many anglers waste time on unproductive water, but focusing on isolated cover—small patches of grass, pads, wood, or rock structures—maximizes success. A 6” worm in darker colors like black-and-blue works well, paired with a 1/16 oz or 1/8 oz weight for a natural presentation. Given the thick cover, 17-20 lb uorocarbon is ideal for strength and stealth.
Another productive method is retrieving a big speed worm. is subtle, vibrating motion excites bass and helps locate !sh before slowing down for precision tactics. In stained water, darker shades like June bug work best, while
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TYLER WOOLCOTT
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green pumpkin with ake is ideal for clear water. A 1/8 oz to 1/4 oz weight with 15-17 lb uorocarbon balances presentation and control.
e wacky rig is highly e ective in shallow water, particularly for pressured bass. is weightless presentation targets isolated cover, making it a deadly !nesse option. A 10-15 lb uorocarbon leader on a spinning setup provides the necessary balance of stealth and strength. As with other worm techniques, darker colors suit stained water, while natural tones excel in clear conditions.
Flipping a worm is less stealthy but allows precise bait placement in thick cover, such as pad !elds, wood, or dense grass. is method is excellent for working through cover quickly while thoroughly breaking down key sections. Using large Senko-style baits and braided line ensures maximum strength. Weight selection varies from 3/8 oz to 3/4 oz, depending on cover density. Slowing down and targeting overlooked spots can set you apart from other anglers.
Rod and reel choices remain fairly consistent across these techniques. For casting and ipping, a 7’6” medium-heavy to heavy action rod, such as the 13 Fishing Omen Series, paired with a high-speed baitcasting reel like the Concept
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A 7:5:1, ensures control and power. For wacky rigs, a 7’3” medium-heavy spinning rod with a quality reel like the 13 Fishing Axum provides sensitivity and strength.
ese big worm techniques have helped me land giants during the spawn, and I hope they do the same for you. Whether !shing Florida’s grass beds or rocky northern structures, these methods are time-tested and e ective. Get out there this spring and hook into some monster bass!
Tyler Woolcott is a professional tournament angler and guide. Check out his website at www.tylerwoolcott shing.com.
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A Legend in Every Blade
The Legacy of the Damascus Steel Spiral Dirk Dagger
In the misty Scottish Highlands, where mountains meet shimmering lochs, the dirk dagger has been a symbol of heritage and honor for centuries. Originating in the medieval battles and clan rivalries, these daggers were not just weapons but treasured heirlooms passed through generations.
One stormy night, a young warrior named Ewan was called to the forge by his grandfather, Duncan, a revered blacksmith. “Ewan,” he began, “our clan’s strength lies not only in our courage but in the blades we wield. Tonight, you will learn the art of crafting a dirk that will carry our legacy forward.”
Ewan selected premium Damascus steel, layering it over 242 times to create a blade with intricate, swirling patterns reminiscent of ancient Highland rivers. Each fold whispered stories of battles won and lost, of honor and sacrifice. He crafted a classic spear point blade with a ¾ tang for enhanced strength and balance, ensuring it stood the test of time and combat.
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The handle was crafted from solid Micarta, a material as resilient as the Scottish spirit. Adorned with stainless steel and brass file work, the spacers and guard shimmered like northern stars. The rounded pommel provided perfect balance and a textured grip, making it feel like an extension of Ewan’s hand.
As dawn broke, Ewan held the completed dirk in his hands. Measuring 12 inches overall, with a 7-inch blade, it was more than a weapon; it was a tribute to his ancestors and a beacon of his clan’s legacy.
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Ewan’s dirk became legendary, said to cut through the strongest armor, with patterns holding the essence of the Highlands. Today, the Damascus Spiral Dirk Knife stands as a pinnacle of craftsmanship, a modern marvel carrying the spirit of ancient Scottish warriors. It is a legacy reborn, ready to be part of your collection, where every inch tells a story of dedication, tradition, and excellence.
Embrace the legend. Hold the history. Own the Damascus Spiral Dirk Knife today for just $99 plus S&H when using special offer code CA5MDK at checkout. This offer is limited to the first 1,200 orders so be sharp and call up today!
Specifications:
Overall Length: 12”
Blade Length: 7”
Blade Material: Premium Damascus steel, layered over 242 times Tang: ¾ tang for enhanced performance
Handle Material: Solid Micarta with stainless steel and brass file, worked spacers and guard Pommel: Rounded for balance and ergonomic grip
Damascus Spiral Dirk Dagger Knife
Was - $249
Now Only - $99 (plus S&H)
Use o er code: CA5MDK
*California residents please call 1-800 733 8463 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product.
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Genuine Leather Sheath
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