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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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.
COASTAL ANGLER TREASURE COAST
Restoration Politics
By Jim Moir, Indian Riverkeeper Executive Director
The physics of climate change doesn’t care about political ideology. Our planet is going to respond to the accumulating greenhouse gases in many ways. The earth gets hotter, and nature’s ability to reliably compensate for ever increasing levels of gases produced by humans burning fossil fuels has reached a point that will be generally unfriendly to civilization.
Estuaries, barrier islands and marshes are some of the front lines of the salty edge. Storm intensities are increasing, and storm surge inundates further inland. As sea level rises, salt water intrudes into places that had been fresh. These beautiful natural areas have become indispensably valuable in providing some measure of resilience to sea level rise and climate change. They absorb storm energy, slow salt intrusion, accommodate rainfall and modulate heat.
Florida’s coasts have always attracted habitation. Her estuaries attracted subsistence harvesting
and recreational opportunities. But Florida’s soil has been a magnet for exploitation. Many of Florida’s most intractable environmental problems stem from draining wetlands and floodplains for agriculture. Florida has traditionally embraced agriculture over other land uses and protected farming. But the estuaries and coastal communities have enormous economic and environmental value that far exceeds current agricultural proceeds. There is clear evidence for prioritizing their protection over industrialized agriculture. The return on investment for purchasing and protecting wildlands exceeds the value of reclaimed floodplains for agriculture.
Florida’s estuaries have been badly damaged by flood control, drainage and water allocations not to mention the ill-conceived overuse of fertilizers and pesticides. The key to revitalizing the estuaries and providing a more resilient future is to “Rescue the River of Grass”. This is a proposal that is being put forward by the Friends of
the Everglades. It proposes that about 106,000 acres would be purchased in the Everglades Agricultural Area. A shallow reservoir would be created, and a large storm water
treatment area would occupy the rest of the acreage. This would work in conjunctions and in addition to the
Sea Tow is happy to extend it’s service to include tows from Nothern Bahamas, Green
FISHING
FORECASTS
SEBASTIAN AREA INSHORE
Capt. Gus Brugger
Pattern Setter Charters
(772) 360-6787
www.WelcomeToSebastian.com
The inshore fishing in March will be completely dependent on the weather. If it is cooler than average not much will change and the nooks and crannies of the lagoon’s backwaters will remain the best places to find trout, snook and maybe a few redfish. If it warms up, the Sebastian River and Sebastian Inlet may become the best bets..
SEBASTIAN
RIVER – March is a fine month for tarpon and snook in the Sebastian River and an excellent option if the wind is howling on the open waters of the lagoon. Once water temps are in the 70s the Sebastian River and its juvenile tarpon become active. D.O.A. TerrorEyz jigs, MirrOlure MirrOdine plugs, Yo-Zuri 3D minnows and flies are my goto lures for the Sebastian River. The upper south fork seems to be the first
area that juvenile tarpon begin to show themselves and it is a great place to spend some time, whether the fish bite or not. Snook of all sizes are spread throughout the entire river system, but backwater bays and shallow areas that warm quickly with the sun seem to be the best places to get them to bite in the early spring.
INDIAN RIVER LAGOON
– Trout, snook and redfish are the main targets of lagoon anglers in March. From the backwaters to the spoil islands, trout of all sizes are on the lookout for shrimp and small baitfish. Redfish and snook are also available and will generally be found close to shoreline cover but stay alert as pods of reds and big snook are often laid up sunning on the flats adjacent to shoreline cover. A 4-inch D.O.A. C.A.L. jerk-bait on a ⅛-ounce head is a great all around lure for everything that swims in the lagoon in March. Wade fishing will give anglers an edge, and March is probably the best month to employ this tactic. Spoil islands are excellent areas to wade and often hold good numbers of trout in March. The
close proximity of the islands to the deeper waters of the Intracoastal channel make them excellent places for all types of fish to lay in wait for the migrating shrimp that use the channel and its current as a highway
this time of year. Artificial lures will work, but a live shrimp fished with a natural drift while wade fishing can be amazingly effective in this situation.
SEBASTIAN INLET –
Sebastian Inlet snook fishing should pick up as water temps rise. Bucktails at night and live pinfish, pilchards and shrimp both day and night are effective. In addition to the snook, Sebastian Inlet will play host to big jack crevalle, redfish, bluefish, pompano, Spanish mackerel, black drum and sheepshead in March.
NEARSHORE ATLANTIC –
The waters from the beach to a few miles offshore can be very productive in March if the wind allows boaters and surf fishermen the opportunity to fish. Surf fishermen target pompano, bluefish and mackerel on both bait and artificials with a preference for incoming tides. Boaters within sight of the beach keep an eye open for cobia, cruising schools of big jack crevalle, as well as bonito and Spanish mackerel chasing minnows. Tight lines!
Authorized Dealer and Warranty Centers for the Following:
Capt. Gus with a nice snook! Colder water temps may push lagoon snook to find warm refuges, but they will still bite.
PHOTO PROVIDED by Capt. Gus Brugger.
SEBASTIAN AREA OFFSHORE
Capt. Terry Wildey
Big Easy Fishing Charters (772) 538 - 1072
captwildey@bellsouth.net www.bigeasyfishingcharters.com
Old saying goes, “March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb.” However, sometimes it’s the last week in March and we’re still looking for that lamb. The fishing should be worth the wait. Due to the terrible weather we saw in January and February, I’m counting on good weather in March to make up for it.
Look for good catches of mangrove snapper, triggerfish and hopefully some cobia still lingering. Last year in the 85-to-90-foot range, fishing was great, when we could find clean water. The winds of March can sometimes leave us with a decent ocean but dirty water conditions. Good to be prepared to run to 160 feet or deeper to find clean water. Chicken rigs with squid will produce catches of amberjack, vermilion snapper, trigger fish and porgies. It’s a great way to salvage the day and put some dinner on the table.
Offshore trolling should be slow but there’s always a chance of a
blackfin tuna and occasional dolphin or wahoo. I like to troll ballyhoo from spot to spot while I’m looking for a mark of fish for bottom fishing. There’s the chance of picking up a fish as well as giving the rest of the crew something to do other than stare at you, staring at the bottom machine.
I’ve found the water to be stirred up after long periods of March winds to where fish don’t mark or bite right away when you get to a spot. If that’s the case, you might give it some time. Stay to make it pay. If the water is dirty the fish will be back in the ledges and take some coaching to come out and bite.
The fishing near the shore is usually tough due to lack of calm
water keeping it stirred up. With the crazy changing weather patterns though you never know will we get a couple weeks of decent March weather or just a couple days. If it’s the latter, I take advantage of this time to prepare for April fishing. I go through everything from safety equipment, bilge pumps, engine maintenance, tackle, also a good time to respool reels and restock your spare parts inventory. Sometimes having an extra fuel filter or set of spark plugs can salvage your fishing day as well as your reputation. If there’s a calm day in March, I’ll be out there in the blue water. Look for big easy fishing charters. We’ll be we’re ever the fish are biting.
“Fish On Gotta Go!”
PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Terry Wildey.
Paul and his family with a nice cobia, mangrove and lane snappers, as well as some triggerfish.
MARCH FISHING CONDITIONS
March
March
March
MARTIN COUNTY DEEP SEA
Capt. Rocky Carbia
Safari I Deep Sea Fishing
Pirates Cove Resort and Marina 4307 SE Bayview St. Port Salerno Reservations: (772) 334-4411 www.safari1deepseafishing.com
Brisk snapper fishing will continue to prevail through the days of March and will highlight the diversity of bottom dwelling fish that can be caught among the many reefs, wrecks, and snags that lay beneath the offshore waters of Martin County. Lane snapper will still be posted up on near shore reefs and artificial structures in 50 to 60 feet of water and will land in big numbers on fish box ice, again this month. Sturdy mangrove snapper will also be representing in a similar zone and on structures out to 90 feet of water. Mutton snapper will make a solid showing in the March ocean, with medium to larger representatives of the species (10- to 20-pound fish) making their presence known along the naturally occurring reef line in 70 to 80 feet of salty liquid.
What do the ratings mean?
POOR day basically means the fish will either steal all your bait or will not even touch your line.
FAIR day means that you catch one or two fish but you will have to work hard to do so.
GOOD day means that you will catch enough fish to feel gratified.
BEST day means that you will catch something almost every time you cast your line in the water.
SOURCE: The Old Farmers’ 2025 Almanac
FORECASTS
Capt. Jonathan Earhart
Chaos Fishing Charters (772) 341 – 2274 www.chaosfishingcharters.com jon@chaosfishingcharters.com
It’s finally starting to feel like springtime again here on the Treasure Coast. Warming inshore water temperatures will have the larger snook feeding more actively on larger live bait fish this month. Snook fishing with live pilchards or mullet will produce good action around the structure along the Indian River. Early morning toss a topwater plug for some intense surface strikes from big snook and jacks at first light. If you’re searching for smaller edible fish, pompano fishing is still producing some good fish on sandy flats near local inlets. Docs Goofy Jigs or live shrimp on an original Shrimp Walker hook will produce the bites you desire. Expect plenty of bonefish, jacks, ladyfish
The anchored boat will encompass the best strategy for getting attached to these salty snapper groceries, as precision positioning will be crucial in cycling for “snapper slams” and will allow anglers to settle in overtop of favorite fishing spots to conduct
a surgical strike against their scaly opponents.
As the winter days of March slowly and subtlety transition to the spring equinox (March 20), fishing captains and their crews will continue to monitor dynamic weather fronts
and the occasional flounder mixed in while targeting pompano. Nearshore we can still expect some great Spanish mackerel fishing. This is typically the tail end of the mackerel run so take advantage while they are still here before the run comes to an end. Casting Tsunami Glass Minnow jigs with a fast retrieve
and the winds that are associated with them. March is typically another windy and rough month in general, especially initially, and historically can taper to more fishing friendly conditions during the latter half of the month. However, since weather forecasting is not an exact science, it`s not uncommon to see late arriving cold fronts that wipe out the offshore playing field at any time during the month. So, with this in mind, keep a mindful eye on the weather and be prepared for when a user-friendly window does open. Using forecast savvy web pages like Windfinder. com can help with planning for an offshore fishing trip for a particular week. Another excellent virtual web page is Windstream at earth.school. net, which is a satellite wind map that gives a snapshot of wind velocity and direction, and allows the user to position a cursor, offshore, via a GPS number to determine wind velocity in an area one may be considering to fish on that day.
Open weather friendly windows will lead to a colorful bounty of snapper during this offshore calendar month and will also have the potential to host a flurry of cobia activity, as hungry cobes glide through our zone during the fishy days of March.
PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Rocky Carbia.
Excellent snapper fishing will be one of the highlights for Safari 1 anglers in March.
PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Jonathan Earhart.
Rob with a 28-inch snook caught on a live pilchard.
CERP and CEPP (Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan) and (Central Everglades Planning Project). These are massive joint federal and state funded projects that include removing obstacles to water flow in the historic Everglades. The hope is to move Lake Okeechobee water through the treatment system and into the River of Grass rather than be an irrigation system for Big Sugar. Money for this land purchase would come from the already voter approved for land acquisition, Amendment 1. The money amounts to about 1.6 billion dollars annually collected from real estate document stamps.
Restoring a flow way from Lake Okeechobee through the EAA and rehydrating the Everglades will address many water woes. It will
PAGE 4
will get the bites. This month can also produce some absolute monster jacks along local beaches. Find a school, cast a topwater plug, and try and get it back to the boat without catching a jack. Also, keep an eye
allow the northern estuaries a chance to recover, and it will allow Lake O to recover. By ending the wasteful dirty discharges to the estuaries, we can get the red tide and cyanobacteria blooms under control. And we can finally equitably deal with how water flow is managed in Florida.
I have been skeptical of how Florida has managed water quality regulation and generally regarded the Federal Agencies better equipped. But if we can get EAA land purchased, water treated, and a flow way established, we can save the Everglades and maybe save ourselves.
If you would like to learn more about the benefits of supporting Indian Riverkeeper, email Executive Director Jim Moir at IndianRiverKeeperFL@gmail.com or call (772) 341-4953.
out for larger bluefish while on the search for big jacks, sometimes we catch bluefish up to 20 pounds off the beach month. They can be a blast on light tackle! Again, cast at the school, retrieve anything shiny quickly and hold on!
Tight Lines!
ST. LUCIE COUNTY
OFFSHORE
Capt. Bo Samuel
Pullin Drag Charters
(772) 971-6661
facebook.com/Pullin-Drag-Charters catainbofishing@gmail.com
It’sMarch and we are seeing some very welcome changes. The windy days are transitioning to longer good weather windows so watch the reports and be ready for some fishing-friendly days ahead. Schools of baitfish are moving closer to shore and the big migratory fish are following. Area anglers will be working on personal bests as well as trophy catches of cobia, kingfish, snapper, mahi, and even sails.
The snapper bite should continue full force as bottom dwelling fish congregate on our near shore reefs, wrecks, and artificial structures. Fish boxes full of lanes, mangroves, and mutton definitely validate the effective strategy of bottom fishing our beautiful local reefs. Take the
time to scout for productive fishing spots on reefs from 50 feet to 100 feet and you should be rewarded with salty snapper groceries. Black drum have been plentiful and we have been targeting them along with snapper on our charter trips. Live shrimp, sand fleas, or blue crab broken in half are great bait choices to tempt these underrated game fish. Black drum have a mild, sweet flavor with flaky white meat and are excellent fried, baked, broiled, or done hobo-style on the grill. While the season is open year-round, this is the time they usually spawn. Anglers are allowed a daily bag limit of five with the slot limit of 14 inches to 24 inches with one fish over 24 inches allowed per person.
Cobia is also on the fish list and is my personal favorite nearshore target in March. They can be found from just off the beach out to the offshore wrecks. Highly attracted to buoys, wrecks, and floating objects, these powerful, aggressive feeders frequently swim around schools of sharks and gliding rays. If you see either of these, be ready with a pitch rod for a great chance of hooking
a hungry cobia. Try to be quick on the reel or the sharks may take half your fish with one quick pass. Cobia will take almost any live or artificial
ST. LUCIE COUNTY DEEP SEA
Capt. Scotty Gold
Miss Fort Pierce Fishing (772) 766-0191 www.fortpiercefishing.com
We’ve gotten through February, and it has been another windy month. The weatherman hasn’t played nicely for those of us that like to fish. The water has chilled slightly on the bottom from some of the cool stamps we had but the bottom fishing seems to bounce back
Lane snappers, triggerfish and porgies have been plentiful. They can be found in 50 or 55 feet of water all the way out to about 100-to-110 feet. Fish on the rough bottom with a two-hook high/low rig, also known as a chicken rig. Strips of cut squid, mullet or grunt strips prove to be the best baits. This is often faster fishing and tends to be great for families, especially kids.
Some keeper snaps have also been caught. Most are from 12 to about 16 inches. They tend to be a little smaller in the wintertime. The best places to fish are 55 to about 130 feet of water on the ledges and hills on the rough bottom of the reefs. Fish with grunt plugs, live mullet. Even large live shrimp on some days. An 8-to-10foot leader with 30- or 40-pound test fluorocarbon has proven to be the best setup.
Snappers have also started to show up on the northern grounds in 75 to 95 feet of water. This time of year, the
bait, but I prefer shrimp, crab, pilchards, or mullet. I highly recommend having your gaff ready since these “brown bombers” are known for an awesome fight and can get up to 80 pounds or more. Per FWC, the minimum size limit for cobia is 36 inches to the fork and the daily bag limit is one per person or two per boat whichever is less.
If you’re hoping to find that legendary pot o’ gold for St. Patrick’s Day, it’s here in our Treasure Coast waters! Join me on the fishiest boat in the Fort to reel in your own salty treasure. I’m based out of the historic Little Jim Bait & Tackle (#SaveLittleJim) where fish caught in the morning, can be “Cook Your Catch” for lunch! You can’t go wrong with the Little Jim fish tacos. Hope your St. Patrick’s celebration includes a little bit of luck Pullin Drag!
sharks are plentiful so a shorter leader of about 15 feet of 40-to-60-pound test fluorocarbon proves to be the best. Grunt plugs or live finger mullet tend to be the best baits.
When snapper fishing this time of year, be a little more patient as the bites tend to be a lot lighter feeling, give them more time to “eat”.
The Miss Fort Pierce continues to sail on her seven-day schedule, 7 a.m to 3 p.m. and until 4 p.m. on Saturdays. We are the Treasure Coast’s only full-time all-day boat. You can make your reservation online at www.fortpiercefishing.com.
The Miss Fort Pierce is also available for private charters for fishing or cruising and can accommodate up to 70 passengers.
Capt. Fab, Capt. Bob, and Capt. Bo with a table full of black drum!
PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Bo Samuel.
PHOTO CREDIT: Miss Fort Pierce Fishing.
Lane snappers, triggerfish and porgies have been plentiful.
ST. LUCIE COUNTY INSHORE
Capt. Adam White
St. Lucie Flats Fishing Charters (609) 820-6257 www.stlucieflatsfishing.com
Hopefully everyone is getting out to enjoy some of the great weather opportunities this winter. We had an amazing stretch of weather throughout February. March, on the other hand, is historically a very windy month. While that will limit how and where to fish, don’t get discouraged with the windy conditions, use them to your advantage.
Snook fishing is great throughout the month of March. When fishing the river focus on the first 200 yards of a mangrove point. I am specifically looking for areas that have 1.5- to 3-feet of depth tight to the mangroves with an edge that will roll off to deeper water. Several spoil islands have this exact scenario along with multiple
stretches along the river. When using live bait make a long cast with a free lined live bait to where he can swim into the kill zone is great way to get tight on a shallow water snook. Using appropriate size tackle for the size of baits you’re using is half the battle as well. I’m using rods specifically for croakers (CrowderESS720), and a different rod (CrowderESS715) for using
live greenies or pilchards. The rods’ ability to make a good cast with the weight of the bait, more importantly have the backbone to tear the hook from the bait and set it into the fish. The river is known for its diversity. There are loads of other species to target throughout the month of March. The channel edges will have quite a few drum, sheepshead, and snapper. Live shrimp, Fishbites, or shrimp tipped jigs will keep the rods bent most of the day. Pompano are still in the river and making a good appearance along the surf as well. Working the
deeper drop offs with Doc’s Goofy Jigs, sand fleas, or shrimp are all good ways to target pompano. Out in the surf you will have quite a bit tasty bycatch such as croakers, whiting, and the occasional permit. The blacktip and spinner shark migration should be in full swing by now. Getting out on the beach and targeting these hard fighting acrobatic sharks is a blast. Spring is right around the corner. Aside from some hard cold fronts winter wasn’t too bad this year. I have great expectations for 2025.
PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Adam White.
Rob and Jack with a great haul from the first reef using live shrimp.
PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Adam White.
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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
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