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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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!
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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By Brandon Tourigny
FLORIDA’S CHAIN PICKEREL
In the northern parts of our great country, anglers enjoy chasing down enormous pike and elusive musky. We Floridians don’t usually give this toothy family of sh a second thought since the lake monsters of the north are nowhere to be found in our waters. ere is, however, a smaller cousin of northern pike and musky that Florida anglers willing to do a little searching can have the pleasure of shing for: the chain pickerel.
Named for their greenish and dark colorations creating a chainlike pattern, these sh stand out among the pike family. Alongside their smaller relative, the red n pickerel, these are the only pike family members commonly found in Florida.
Chain pickerel are found statewide and most o en inhabit densely vegetated areas of ponds, swamps and rivers. ese predatory sh are solitary hunters that prowl the shallows in search of small minnows and shad. e chain pickerel’s lightning-fast strikes and long snake-like body make for an exhilarating battle on lighter tackle. e best place to start in terms of selecting baits would be to go with small Rapala jerkbaits and crankbaits, topwater plugs and spinnerbaits. To be able to fully appreciate the ght in these feisty predators, a good rod and reel set up would be a medium-light action spinning rod paired with a 2,500 to 3,000 size spinning reel spooled up with 10- to 20-pound braided line. Don’t be surprised, however, if these toothy sh cut you o$ on occasion. eir mouths are full of needle-sharp teeth that can tear through shing line, and your ngers, very easily.
If you are looking to gain some recognition for your chain pickerel, be sure to check out the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s big catch program, which gives wellearned recognition to large sh of a number of species caught in Florida. In terms of chain pickerel, any sh 3 pounds and heavier will qualify for this program. Also, as I always like to remind anglers across Florida, these sh are a native species to our state and deserve our respect when shing for them. Try to return sh unharmed to the water as quickly as possible to ensure your catch can continue to grow and carry on the population so our children a er us can have the chance to catch these magni cent sh.
FWC Applauds Governor’s Recommended Budget for Prioritizing Florida’s Natural Resources
Recommendations include $30 million to Restore Apalachicola’s Oyster Habitat, $10 Million for Shooting Sports Facilities, and $10 million for Artificial Reefs
Governor Ron DeSantis recently announced his 2025-26 Focus on Fiscal Responsibility Budget recommendations, solidifying Florida’s status as the nation’s leader in sh and wildlife conservation and outdoor recreation.
“Governor DeSantis’ recommendations reinforce his unwavering support to Florida’s sheries, hunting and angling community, public access to shooting sports, and the long-term recovery of the Apalachicola Oyster Habitat,” said FWC Executive Director Roger Young. “ ese investments are in addition to the Governor’s law enforcement pay plan, support of enhanced training capabilities for FWC O cers, and funding to bolster our operations to combat illegal immigration and drug tra cking.”
Florida is home to some of the country’s premier destinations for top-tier shing, hunting, and outdoor recreational opportunities. ese activities draw outdoor enthusiasts to our state and contribute signi cantly to the state’s economy with nearly $15 billion dollars. With more than 34 million acres of public and private land and over 12,000 square miles of water, maintaining our sh and wildlife resources is critical to sustaining a healthy way of life and a robust economy.
• Restoring Apalachicola Bay Oysters:
Historically, nearly 90% of Florida’s and 10% of the nation’s wild oysters came from Apalachicola Bay. is year, the Governor is recommending $30 million in funding to expedite FWC’s e$orts to restore and recover the oyster habitat. is investment is in addition to an additional $10 million investment in the Department of Environmental Protection’s budget to invest in projects that support the Apalachicola Bay Area of Critical State Concern.
• Promoting Floridians’ Access to Public Boat Ramps: As the Boating Capital of the World, Florida’s coastal communities must have enough publicly accessible boat ramps. As such, the budget recommends $9 million to increase public access to maritime facilities while providing another year of %exibility in the Department of Environmental Protection’s Working Waterfronts program.
• Investing in Florida’s Arti cial Reefs: e Focus on Fiscal Responsibility Budget provides $10 million to support additional reefs across Florida’s coastlines.
• Increasing Public Access to Shooting Sports and Wild Game: e Governor’s Budget invests $9.2 million to support the construction of two new shooting sports facilities in Liberty and Polk counties while also calling for a “Second
Amendment Summer” tax holiday on rearms and ammunition. Additionally, the budget provides $9 million to manage FWC’s wildlife management areas.
• Prioritizing Fresh and Saltwater Research and State Management: As recommended by the Governor, FWC is provided additional funds to support FWC’s marine lab in Cedar Key and increased funding to support the management of Red Snapper o$ all of Florida’s coastlines. e budget also prioritizes investments in Florida Bass, Snook, Tripletail, and other Bone sh species.
• Defending Florida’s Everglades from Invasive Species: Governor DeSantis includes more than $3 million to remove pythons from the Everglades utilizing traditional methods and innovative technologies.
• Maintaining Law & Order: e Governor provides $5 million for a dedicated state training facility for waterborne rescues and $4.4 million to codify the FWC’s Special Immigration Law Enforcement Unit.
FWC’s mission is to manage sh and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the bene t of the people. To learn more about FWC, visit MyFWC.com.
ST. AUGUSTINE EDITION
Franchise Owners
Eric & Gina Diesl
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Capt. Tommy Derringer St. Augustine-Inshore www.inshoreadventures.net
Capt. Robert Johnson St. Augustine-Offshore www.jodielynncharters.com
Capt. Kirk Waltz Mayport www.enterprisefishingcharters.com
Capt. Tony Bozzella Sisters Creek www.tonybozzella.com
Noel Kuhn Pier & Surf www.thesurfangler.com
Capt. Dominic Anderson Instagram: staugustine_fishing
WEBMASTER
Ryan Clapper
DISTRIBUTION
Bob Bueno
For advertising inquiries, Call Capt. Eric at 904-829-7571 or e-mail eric@coastalanglermagazine.com
Dear Readers,
As March rolls in, the fishing scene in Northeast Florida begins to heat up in anticipation of the spring season. The waterways teem with a diverse array of fish, from redfish and speckled trout to the elusive flounder. The warming waters rejuvenate our local marine life, drawing in both seasoned fishermen and eager novices. This period is marked by remarkable opportunities to explore the creeks, rivers, and coastal waters, each teeming with its own unique catch. Whether you prefer casting from the shore or venturing out in a boat, March promises an adventure where patience is rewarded with bountiful and memorable catches.
As you set out on your fishing endeavors, remember to uphold the values of conservation and respect for the natural environment. Embrace the chance to teach younger generations the joys of fishing and the importance of preserving our waters for future anglers.
We are excited to share our Facebook page that will now feature more articles and links to local events happening throughout the month. www.facebook. com/CAMStAugustine> Please send in pictures ,tournament dates and ideas for articles to us at: gina@ coastalanglermagazine.com.
We currently have a choice of advertising options available ranging from print & digital to video & social. If you would like us to add your business to our monthly delivery route or any other assistance you may need, please contact us:
Capt. Eric Diesl - 904-829-7571
Eric@coastalanglermagazine.com
Gina Diesl - 904-540-2311
Gina@coastalanglermagazine.com
You will find our St. Augustine edition in print for free at over 200 fine local retailers every month as well as online at coastalanglermag.com & vidmag.com.
Until next month, we wish you tight lines and warm breezes.
- Capt. Eric & Gina
Fishing Report & Forecast St. Augustine Offshore
By Capt. Robert Johnson
I Identify as Spring
One of the many reasons I live in Florida is I hate cold. I’m very ready for winter to be over and March to usher in milder temperatures with less cold fronts. And, most importantly, Spring brings in great Bluewater fishing.
In addition to Wahoo and Blackfin Tuna, I expect to see some early season Mahi. Best start is on the shelf edge for Tuna and Wahoo that love to hold on structure. Mid-morning I start looking to the east anticipating an edge that will be holding Mahi / Dorado / Dolphin
Fishing Report Pier and Surf
By: Noel Kuhn
Coldwater is the story! As of the writing of this article the northeast Florida surf temperature was 58 degrees! What we need is low to mid 60’s. Here is a link to a very good website that gives an accurate daily water temperature graph. www.sstcharts.com I’ve always emphasized to anglers “Why fish here in Jacksonville were the water is cold when you can drive an hour south and have fun catching fish?” So utilize these satellite imagery photos to make your day of fishing in to a day of catching!
Last week I had an angler form Tampa that just wanted to learn how to surf fish. We fished hard at Ponte Vedra and as expected we only caught a few nice Whtiting and Dogsharks. The water was 58 degrees.
- whatever name you prefer! These tasty, hard fighting fish are the highlight of Spring fishing. Fortunately for fisherman, this species is not picky. If you find them, they will eat…mostly Ballyhoo rigged naked or with a small skirt on monofilament increases your hookups. We always pull something deep in the water column rigged on wire for any Wahoo that might still be around. A staple of the charter fleet is an Islander Hawaiian Eye in front of medium ballyhoo.
If bottom fishing is your thing, there are plenty of species that are open and available. Vermillion Snapper, Gray Triggerfish, Mutton Snapper, and many other species willing and ready to bite.
It’s a great time to go fishing. Not hot. Not cold. Just right. Here’s to an early Spring with warmer days.
Let’s Go Fishing - Captain Robert Johnson!
Captain Robert Johnson
(904)540-2628
Jodielynncharters.com
Jlfishing@bellsouth.net
However he will take his new learned skills back to Tampa and catch a lot more fish. Right now the surf temp near Tampa is 66. Now back to our area. When our water warms back into the low 60’s GO FISHING! The larger whiting will be back just like they’ve done every cold winter. As a bonus the largest Pompano seem to handle the colder water better so they show up first. This time of year you will catch more fish with clams. The sand fleas are almost nonexistent because they have buried themselves deep into the sand. Your best bet is to buy the largest clams you can find from a seafood dealer. The largest ones will give you four or five baits from each one. The best tackle is a double dropper rig with 2/0 circle hooks. Only use a piece about the size of your thumb nail. This will most closely represent their natural food which are Donax(Periwinkle) clams.
If we get a nice warm afternoon bring your sand flea rake along if you’re fishing a high impact red sand beach. The fleas will rise to the surface by the thousands and are easy picking when the conditions are right. Hope this helps. See you on the beach.
The Florida Surfcasters are pleased to announce their 21st annual Open Surf Fishing Tournament. It will be held Saturday May 17th, 2025. For complete information and registration please visit www. floridasurfcastesr.com
Noel Kuhn
Surf fishing guide and long distance casting coach. 904-945-0660
www.TheSurfAngler.com
Fishing Report & Forecast Sisters Creek
By Capt. Tony Bozzella
March is a transitional month, and water temperatures start rising and many species start to return to our waters.Trout bite starts to heat up and species like bluefish, Jack Crevalle, and Spanish Mackerel will show up if the cold dissipates as normal years past. Bait ,like mullet and pogies, start to return as well. Baitfish imitations such as Rapalas, Mirro lures all work well. Lures will start to take there fair share in the creek mouths and river. Top waters will produce well. “Walk the dog method” are best. Pay attention to the weather temps and bait. But, it is the start! Redfish will continue to be caught in the backcountry creeks and shallow mud flats as fish are still enjoying the mid - day warmth of
the flats. Mud minnow, crabs and shrimp are still top choice’s on a TBS black nickel jig. Use as little terminal tackle as possible and a 30 inch piece of Fluorocarbon (15 - 20lb) with as light of a jig as you can effectively get away with. There will still be plenty of shallow water Redfish and the water is genrally still clear. Spoons, spinners, topwaters and shallow running plugs along the grass lines at high tides will also do well. If the water is still cool make sure to retrieve the lure slowly. Black drum will still be taken on bait in the backcountry as well. Jig & shrimp combos will be the most effective. some of the big Black drum will be moving into the jetties for there spawn and a crab or clam on a fish finder rig and heavier tackle will be the best bet for a trophy. Please catch and release them. Don’t forget spring Turkey season!!!
THU 02:25 AM -0.38 L 08:43 AM 4.77 H 02:43 PM -0.32 L 09:03 PM 4.77 H 14 FRI 03:07 AM -0.41 L 09:21 AM 4.68 H 03:18 PM -0.35 L 09:40 PM 4.84 H
15 SAT 03:46 AM -0.34 L 09:57 AM 4.55 H 03:52 PM -0.26 L 10:15 PM 4.86 H
16 SUN 04:24 AM -0.19 L 10:34 AM 4.38 H 04:25 PM -0.06 L 10:49 PM 4.83 H
17 MON 05:02 AM 0.03 L 11:10 AM 4.21 H 04:57 PM 0.20 L 11:24 PM 4.76 H
18 TUE 05:41 AM 0.29 L 11:47 AM 4.03 H 05:32 PM 0.48 L
19 WED 12:01 AM 4.67 H 06:22 AM 0.56 L 12:26 PM 3.88 H 06:09 PM 0.74 L
20 THU 12:41 AM 4.57 H 07:07 AM 0.81 L 01:07 PM 3.75 H 06:54 PM 0.92 L
22 SAT 02:22 AM 4.39 H 08:55 AM 1.08 L 02:49 PM 3.66 H 08:51 PM 0.98 L
23 SUN 03:25 AM 4.38 H 09:54 AM 1.01 L 03:52 PM 3.76 H 09:57 PM 0.80 L
24 MON 04:32 AM 4.48 H 10:51 AM 0.77 L 04:56 PM 4.00 H 11:02 PM 0.49 L
25 TUE 05:34 AM 4.68 H 11:45 AM 0.39 L 05:55 PM 4.38 H
26 WED 12:02 AM 0.09 L 06:29 AM 4.91 H 12:36 PM -0.08 L 06:49 PM 4.83 H
27 THU 12:57 AM -0.35 L 07:20 AM 5.12 H 01:23 PM -0.55 L 07:39 PM 5.29 H
28 FRI 01:50 AM -0.75 L 08:08 AM 5.25 H 02:08 PM -0.93 L 08:27 PM 5.69 H
29 SAT 02:39 AM -1.04 L
21 FRI 01:27 AM 4.46 H 07:58 AM 1.00 L 01:54 PM 3.68 H 07:48 PM 1.01 L
Advertising Account Executives -- Coastal Angler Magazine is seeking experienced Advertising Account Executives in St. Johns, Flagler or Putnam County. Our ideal candidates will have a minimum of two years’ previous advertising sales experience and be familiar with the creative requirements of the advertising field. We are looking for advertising industry professionals who understand relations selling and who can manage multiple accounts and professional fol low-up as part of a daily routine. In an era when other print publications are shrinking, Coastal Angler Magazine, through its co-publisher business model, has achieved exponential growth and industry leader status. Qualified candidates interested in the position should submit a one-page resume to the contact information provided.
UPCOMING TOURNAMENTS & Coastal Events
March 29, 2025
Redfish Spot Tournament
nstagram: @palmvalleyoutdoors
*Register @ spotsforacure.com/register
*Captains Meeting: Thursday March 27th.
*Tournament Day: Saturday March 29th.
April 26th 2025
Fishbites Surf Fishing Series
St. Augustine Florida
Fishbites Trading Post
June 2025
Jacksonville King Buster
Instagram: @palmvalleyoutdoors
*Register @ spotsforacure.com/register
*Captains Meeting: Thursday March 27th.
*Tournament Day: Saturday March 29th.
June 2025
Daily’s Old School Kingfish Shootout –Presented By Yellowfin *www.oldschoolkingfish.com
July 2025
Ancient City Gamefish Association
Challenge
https://www.acgfa.com
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MASTERING CONDITIONS
By Capt. Michael Okruhlik
Spring shing brings its own set of challenges and opportunities. As water temperatures rise, targeting inshore species like trout, ounder, and reds requires adapting to their changing behavior. Early spring o en means downsizing lures. As sh feed on tiny bait sh and shrimp, small lures mimic these natural prey more e$ectively. Large trout and reds may already have full stomachs, expelling small bait when caught, signaling the need for a smaller o$ering to match the size of the food they’re consuming.
With the warming water, sh become more aggressive, and it’s time to speed up your retrieval techniques. A er a slower winter, anglers should bring out faster-action rods and smaller versions of topwater and twitch baits. While spring can bring calm days, cool fronts and high-pressure systems still a$ect sh behavior. When this happens, adjusting to the conditions—rather than just relying on the calendar—is key. Opting for colors like white or silver for hard baits can pay o$ during this time.
However, spring also brings sti$ winds and crowds. In South Texas, gusts can reach up to 30 knots, making conditions challenging, especially
for kayakers. It’s crucial to check the forecast and plan for these challenging winds. Additionally, spring break brings an in ux of boaters and kayakers, many of whom may be rusty from the o$season. Defensive driving and boating have become essential, and leaving early is recommended to avoid congestion at ramps and on the roads.
Conditions are still variable when targeting sh in March. %e water can remain chilly despite warmer air temperatures. Cold fronts a$ect sh behavior, making them seek deeper water with more stable temperatures. While some sh may move closer to ats as the day warms, they rarely stray far from deep water. Focus on areas near the outer edges of guts that lead from deeper water to ats, adjusting as the day progresses.
During high-pressure conditions, downsizing lures remains reliable, especially as young forage species become abundant. Natural or translucent
colors work well; slowing the retrieval to keep lures closer to the bottom can increase success. When this approach doesn’t yield results, switching tactics can help. Using noisy lures, such as rattling crankbaits or loud topwaters, can provoke a reaction bite when sh are less willing to chase actively. Experimenting with these extremes—quiet, slow presentations versus noisy, aggressive ones—can help you nd the right approach in high-pressure situations. Spring shing requires patience, adaptability, and a keen eye for weather and water conditions. Whether you’re dealing with shi ing sh patterns or navigating spring break crowds, it’s a great time to get out on the water—and maybe bring a kid along for the adventure.
Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures®, and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.
PHOTO COURTESY OF KNOCKIN TAIL LURES®.
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
*California residents please call 1-800 733 8463 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product.
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