POMPANO
Smooth Sailing
navigating peace of mind
THE IMPORTANCE OF BOAT INSURANCE
Embarking on the open water is an exhilarating experience, flled with the promise of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a weekend cruiser, protecting your vessel with proper insurance is not just a choice—it’s a necessity. Explore the reasons why every boat owner should prioritize boat insurance for a worry-free voyage.
Unpredictable waters
The open water can be unpredictable, with unexpected storms, collisions, or other potential accidents. Boat insurance can give you fnancial protection if there is damage to your vessel, providing coverage for repairs or replacement.
Damage and injury
Accidents on the water can result in damage to other boats, docks, or even injuries to passengers. Boat insurance offers liability coverage, which can pay for damages or injuries you’re liable for while boating, up to specifed limits, and lawsuit costs if you’re sued. This includes damage you cause to another watercraft or if someone on or near your boat is injured and you’re found to be legally responsible.
Theft and vandalism
Unfortunately, boat theft and vandalism are realities that boat owners face. Boat insurance has comprehensive and collision coverage that can protect you against events outside of your control, including theft and vandalism.
Incurred medical payments
Accidents on the water may lead to injuries for you or your passengers. Boat insurance offers a range of optional medical payments coverage limits, helping to cover medical expenses if you are in an accident or someone is hurt on your boat, regardless of fault.
Peace of mind for fnancing
If you fnanced the purchase of your boat, most lenders require insurance coverage to protect their investment. Having boat insurance not only fulflls these requirements but also gives you peace of mind knowing that your fnancial interests are safeguarded.
Navigational fexibility
Some water municipalities and marinas may require proof of insurance for docking or accessing certain areas. Boat insurance allows you the fexibility to explore different destinations without worrying about entry restrictions.
Emergency towing and assistance
Progressive boat insurance can include optional Sign & Glide® On-Water Towing coverage. If your boat is disabled or breaks down on the water, Sign & Glide® pays for on-water towing, jump starts, soft un-groundings, and fuel delivery.
Wreckage removal
If your boat sinks, Progressive boat insurance will cover the cost of removing your boat from the water (if removal is legally required).
Investing in boat insurance is not just about protecting a valuable asset; it’s about safeguarding the memories, experiences, and joy that come with your on-water adventures. Don’t let unforeseen circumstances disrupt your journey—navigate with confdence, knowing that Progressive boat insurance has you covered. Ensure a smooth and worry-free voyage, because when it comes to your boat, peace of mind is the ultimate luxury.
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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.
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.
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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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
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
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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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Bringing in the Bulls
By: Nathan Rich
Few things in fishing are as exciting as hooking into a giant fish that starts ripping line and making our drag sing! Nothing does that better than a giant BRUTE Bull Redfish! In this article we will cover a few tips and tactics that will be sure to bring in more Bulls this year.
THE BAIT –
When it comes to targeting giant redfish few baits are as productive as a paddle tail. My paddle tail of choice is the MENACE SHAD by Southern Salt Bait Company. This paddle tail has a very aggressive thump and vibration put off by the eratic action of the tail. You can find these locally at Sea 2 Swamp or you can get them online at southernsaltbaitcompany.com
THE LOCATION –
YOU CAN ALSO VISIT OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL, WHERE WE HAVE SEVERAL VIDEOS GOING IN DEPTH ABOUT THESE RIGS AND SETUPS
Big Bull Redfish can be found nearly anywhere on the Gulf and East Coast that has saltwater or brackish water. When it comes to targeting these fish very few places are as productive as long, deep water bridge spans. Bridges typically hold a ton of bait fish and other food sources to sustain these redfish.
TIDE CYCLE-
Timing is everything with these fish, and in my experience the best time to target these fish are the beginning and ends of both the incoming and outgoing tides. The worst time to try to catch these fish is during a slack tide with little to no water movement.
I hope you all found this information helpful. For more fishing tips and tactics, you can visit my YouTube channel Southern Salt where there are hundred’s of videos targeting a multitude of fish around the MS and AL Gulf Coast. Until next time tight lines and stay safe!
Shimano Twin Power FE
The toughest offering in Shimano’s MagnumLite series of spinning reels, the all-new TwinPower XD FB incorporates Shimano’s latest premium spinning reel technologies to elevate inshore angling performance. Constructed from CI4+ carbon-reinforced resin, the MGL Rotor provides light and sensitive rotation for increased precision and lure control during technical inshore angling. With a focus on improved drag performance and an enhanced reeling experience, the new TwinPower XD FB adds Shimano’s Duracross technology for improved drag smoothness and longevity while also incorporating InfinityDrive and InfinityXross technologies for increased winding power and enhanced gear durability. Built to endure harsh saltwater environments, a new X-Protect design reduces reeling noise and improves bearing longevity by draining water to the outermost point of the reel. The addition of Shimano’s InfinityLoop technology enhances line lay to improve casting performance and increase drag consistency by reducing drag spikes. A reel built for toughness without sacrificing sensitivity, the TwinPower XD FB has no equal for inshore anglers.
FISHIN’ IN MARCH
BY: SONNY SCHINDLER
ell, who knows what March is gonna bring? We had snow in January, and near 80° temperatures in February. I’m just assuming March will be chilly and occasionally breezy, but I wouldn’t mind being wrong with some warmer temperatures.
Historically, the bulk of our trips in March are nearshore. We are usually targeting sheepshead, black drum, and redfish all month long. We will be tying hundreds of hooks as we will be fishing heavy structure like bridges, reefs, shell bottoms, and old piers. As long as we don’t get big rains, hopefully the Live Bait folks will keep us supplied with Live shrimp. Dead shrimp will definitely work, but those frisky live ones definitely out perform. A lot of the bait shops are carrying live fiddler crabs, and those most certainly will work. We still use Strong 1/0 hooks on a dropper loop rig. Bring several sizes of lead weights. Some days the currents will be rolling and you’ll need extra weight. Just use enough to where your bait on the bottom and near the structures.
On the calm days, we will definitely start venturing south to the Louisiana marsh. When you get the right weather, it’s usually worth taking the ride. Some of the cleanest water you’ll see all year can be this month. Sight casting to redfish in the ponds or even on the eastern side of the marsh can be insane. These fish can be a little skittish so you don’t want to be stomping around the boat, slamming lids or making any unnecessary noise. You always want the wind in your face and the sun at your back along with a good pair of polarized sunglasses. From there, it’s just a well placed cast directly in the path of the red fish, trying not to hit the fish, but rather drag your bait in front of their path. If they seem to get a case of lockjaw with the artificial baits, it never hurts to tip them with a piece of dead shrimp.
Our offshore boat will be venturing south of the barrier islands, in search of tuna, wahoo, and cobia. Everything regardless of where we are fishing hinges on the temperature and the rain. We all have fingers crossed for a good March full of great fishing opportunities.
As always, have fun and be safe
Faith - Family - Freedom
AFTCO Apparel & Fishing Gear - Costa Del Mar
Offshore & Inshore Saltwater Tackle- Shimano
Momoi- Rod Repair- MS Fishing Licenses
Marine & Boat Supplies
Ice-Bait-Drinks-Snacks
Fuel (diesel, 89 Octane & non ethanol)
Shimano Bantam A
Power. Precision. Performance: Three words characterizing the attitude behind the next generation of Bantam reels. Equipped with Shimano’s Infinity Drive technology to provide anglers with unsurpassed reeling force, engineers designed the new Bantam for the power game. Attack thick vegetation, flip big jigs, burn 1-ounce spinnerbaits, or scour the depths with large crankbaits without resistance or hesitation. Built upon a one-piece aluminum CoreSolid Body, the Bantam provides anglers a solid in-hand feel and the confidence they need during hard hooksets while delivering the power required to yank fish out of the thick stuff. Now featuring Shimano’s MGL Spool III with a decreased startup inertia, the Bantam enables anglers to cast further while providing them with the added versatility to fish a variety of baits and presentations. A reel with a reputation for toughness just got even stronger and more versatile: Don’t shy away from heavy cover, expansive weed mats or thick hydrilla — step up your Power Game with the next generation of Bantam.
Mississippi Kitchen Delights
Smoked Queso Dip
The super bowl, halftime show, and commercials have come and gone. Whether or not your team won, or you enjoyed the halftime show, one thing we can all agree on, the food is what makes the party, and you can’t have a good party without an amazing dip!
This is my go-to dip for any occasion! First office Christmas party and you want to impress the boss, take this dip. You finally got a seat at that elusive Friday night poker game the boys are always talking about, take this dip! It is certain to be a crowd pleaser and will have people asking for the recipe, guaranteed.
INGREDIENTS:
●1 pound of Jimmy Dean brand “Hot” ground sausage
●1 can of Bushes Black beans
●1 can of Rotel tomatoes
●4 jars of Tostitos brand queso dip (I prefer the white - blanca)
●1 red bell pepper - chopped
●1 yellow bell pepper - chopped
●1 purple onion
●6 fresh jalapenos - deseeded and chopped
●¼ cup of Mccormick Taco Seasoning
●¼ stick of unsalted butter
PROCESS:
1. Brown the pound of ground sausage, breaking it up with your spatula
2. Once the meat is browned, drain the grease and add ¼ cup of taco seasoning following the instructions as if you were making taco meat
3. Remove the seeds and chop the jalapenos, onion, and bell peppers
4. Melt a ¼ stick of unsalted butter and saute the peppers & onion until they brown; I like to see some caramelization.
5. Drain and rinse the black beans and add them to the peppers and onions. If you do not rinse the black beans well, they will turn the dip a weird blackish grey color, it is not appealing.
6. Strain the Rotel tomatoes and add them to the mix
7. Over medium heat stir the tomatoes and black beans in with the sauteed peppers & onion, just for a couple of minutes, to warm them up
8. In a large cast iron skillet, dutch oven, or metal pan, combine this mixture with 4 jars of white cheese dip and mix it together well
9. Place this on the smoker for an hour or two, stirring occasionally. The top layer will skim over and will obtain that smokey flavor.
Mixing the top layer of cheese dip into the rest will help that smoke flavor permeate the entire dip.
10. I always transfer it to a crock pot and serve with tortilla chips
There it is, the best cheese dip recipe you will read all day! I have made this dish many times without the use of a smoker. The dip is still fantastic if you refrain from smoking it. The smoke just adds one more layer of flavor and gives the dip a more distinct taste. When it comes to cooking, there are no rules. You can take this recipe and customize it to what you would like, have fun with it! - Captain JJ - Charter Trash
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
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.
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.
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
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
TYLER WOOLCOTT
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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Genuine Leather Sheath