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By Capt. Mike Weinhofer hen I arrived in Key West more than 30 years ago, there was a sign on the fence at the airport that said “Sportfishing Capital of the World.” At the time I had no idea how special Key West was as a fishing destination. It isn’t that it’s the best fishery for any one species. The opportunities here are endless. It has a lot to do with Key West’s location and topography. Key West is a tiny island 120 miles out in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other. It has shallow waters surrounding it to hold bait and deep water near to shore. It’s a very unique ecosystem. It’s a natural migration point for many species to feed and breed. Shallow flats surround Key West and serve as a breeding ground for bait and shallow-water trophy fish. The tarpon migration is world famous. Whether you want to fly fish or bait fish for tarpon, they are always willing to entertain. The shallow flats are also home to bonefish and permit, the hardest fish in the world to catch on a fly. But while the flats are loaded with fish, it’s not just the shallow water that mesmerizes. The call of bluewater seems to ring in everyone’s ears. Just 5 miles offshore on the Atlantic side lies the shallow-water reef. The reef is home to grouper, snapper and all types of tropical fish as well as myriad baitfish. The reef is also a congregation point for bluewater fish. The small ballyhoo and other baitfish attract larger and larger fish to the shallows. It is not uncommon in the winter months to watch sailfish chase ballyhoo in less than 15 feet of water. Just outside of the reef, the water drops to about 120 feet in 500 yards, and then there is an area called “The Bar.” It’s the old coral reef from when the water table was 40 feet lower. The Bar is about 200 yards wide and holds all kinds of fish. It shadows the reef for about 20 miles to the west. The west end of the bar is a magical place, with east-bound current upwelling on the end, bait feeds on pushed-up nutrients, and where bait congregates fish follow. Now for the offshore bluewater. “Woods Wall” is named after the man that discovered it, the famous Keys fisherman Norman Woods. At
W
make even more structure. So close to shore and holding such a variety of fish, it is a bluewater angler’s dream. Amazingly enough, we have not even touched on the fishing west or the north of Key West yet. To the west lie shallow flats and a string of islands that hold bait, tarpon, permit, sharks and many more species. Then, when you get about 20 miles west of Key West there is an island atoll call the Marquesas. It is a special place. Flats fishers come from all around the world to fish this little island. Many stories have been written about epic battles with tarpon and permit and what a magical place it is at sunrise, when anglers watch shallow-water fisheries come to life. Farther to the west are 10 or so wrecks in less than 15 feet of water. Fishing around these wrecks is like fishing in an aquarium. The water is crystal clear and bait is everywhere. Whether it is barracuda, permit, cobia or sharks, the wrecks are alive with activity. Another magical place 64 miles west of Key West is the Dry Tortugas, a group of small islands surrounded by shallow water and some of the best bottom fishing in the world. The Dry Tortugas is home to Fort Jefferson, a national park and a whole other ecosystem I could spend an entire article describing. To the north of Key West lies the Gulf of Mexico, a shallow basin for the nearshore that drops to about 100 feet in depth at 40 miles. The Gulf is loaded with wrecks that hold all kinds of bottom fish. Grouper, snapper and cobia fishing is a blast, as is the jewfish and shark fishing. Never mind fishing behind the shrimp boats for blackfin tuna, bonitas, cobia and other fish. And there are the radio towers that stand tall out in 80 to 120 feet of water that hold all kinds of bottom fishing opportunities as well as kingfish, amberjacks, sharks and cobia. In short Key West is not the best fishery for any one thing, it has it all. The topography makes it like no place else in the world to fish. Its unique layout allows us to hide from prevailing winds and make even the worst winds fishable. Quite often the hardest decision is which way to turn in the morning, left or right can make all the difference. It is one of the few places you can catch tarpon in the morning, sailfish in the mid day and dolphin or tuna in the afternoon. Everything is just so close, and there are just so many choices it makes each morning a debate. After 30 years, I still enjoy all the hard choices. Capt. Weinhofer runs charters on the Compass Rose. Visit www. KeyWestFloridaFishing.com or call 305-395-3474.
the edge of the continental shelf, the top of the wall is 800 feet deep with a shear drop to deeper than 1,800 feet in a mere 100 yards. The Gulf Stream slams into this shear face and makes rips and upwellings. If that weren’t enough, there are cracks in the wall that extend inshore to 8
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For more tuna fishing in the Keys, go to
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Fight the blues.
If nothing makes you happier than battling a billfish, you’ll find plenty to smile about in Key West. Minutes from shore you can go toe-to-toe with behemoth blue marlin, the greatest gamefish of them all. You can chase after tuna and dolphin, too. Wahoo! fla-keys.com/keywest 1.800.527.8539 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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ON THE COVER Editor’s Note:
Each month, Coastal Angler Magazine and The Angler Magazine staff search our vast coverage area for photos that will grace our covers. With well over a million readers in diverse coastal and inland markets, our magazines strive for broad national appeal as well as local-level intelligence to put anglers on fish. The cover is different depending on which edition you, the reader, are holding. The following is a little information about this month’s covers.
COASTAL ANGLER MAGAZINE Freeport, Bahamas Yellowfin
FREE
Sushi doesn’t come any fresher than it does Outdoor 32nd Annual on the deck of the Finster when yellowfin Palm Beach Apparel International Edition Boat Show tuna are pushing bait off of Freeport in the Bahamas. This month’s Coastal Angler Magazine cover photo, courtesy of Picture Perfect Charters, is of Capt. Pete Milisci with a nice tuna that has an imminent encounter Local with a fillet knife and some soy sauce. Team Finster is an offshore tournament team based out of Fort Myers, Fla. They fish sailfish tournaments on the east coast of Florida as well as some offshore stuff on the west coast. All that sounds fun, but so does their annual spring tuna outing across the Gulf Stream from Fort Lauderdale. It’s the kind of trip most occasional anglers dream of, and these guys do it pretty much every year when the yellowfin show up. They spend the better part of a week operating out of a condo in Port Lucaya, venturing out just 10 miles from the docks each day to chase birds and catch big tuna. They load coolers with mahi, blackfin and yellowfin tuna, and even the occasional mutton snapper caught from the dock while they are cleaning the day’s catch. What more could an angler ask for? March 23-26
WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS WANTED! The Best American Hooks & Weights For Better #Fishing
Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events
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THE ANGLER MAGAZINE Lake Erie, Smallmouth Bass
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Over the last decade or so, Lake Erie, the fourth largest of the Great Lakes, has really taken off Outdoor Apparel as one of the best smallmouth bass fisheries in Edition the world. This has been widely credited to the arrival of the invasive round goby, a bottomdwelling species that has become a staple in Local the diet of bass and other game fish. Biologists have reported impressive growth rates of smallmouth bass in Lake Erie since the gobies took hold there. The long-term impact these invasive fish will have is not completely understood, but for the meantime they are propping up a great fishery. The photo on the cover of this month’s editions of The Angler Magazine is of Kayla Culp, of Ridgeway, Ontario and a chunky bronzeback she caught while drop shotting soft plastics in Lake Erie’s East Basin. She mainly fishes the Canadian side of the lake, where bass season doesn’t begin until early summer. Anglers on the U.S. side of the lake also get to experience fishing through the stages of the spawn, which typically begin with a pre-spawn push to shallower water in April and run into June when the fish retreat back to the depths. The photo was taken by her boyfriend, fishing buddy and all-around lucky dude Matt Sirianni. Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events
VOLUME 22 • ISSUE 265
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APPAREL Product Review XTRATUF KRYPTEK ANKLE DECK BOOT Introducing the Kryptek Ankle Deck Boot from XTRATUF, a beloved fishing boot brand popular amongst recreational and commercial fisherman alike. XTRATUF boots are a gear staple of every man, woman and child in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest and beyond, not only for the protective properties that have made them must-have gear for boating, sailing and fishing enthusiasts, but as a fashion and trend statement around the world. This boot is a simple, wearable way to achieve a fashion-forward look in a truly iconic boot with significant brand heritage. New for spring 2017, XTRATUF and Kryptek, camouflage design innovators, are collaborating on a new deck boot collection that combines the technology of the popular XTRATUF Performance Ankle Deck Boot with sleek Kryptek camo designs, including the Yeti and Pontus patterns (MSRP $90). It features a 1mm Neoprene XpressCool bootie that surrounds the whole foot and ankle providing all day comfort. Like all XTRATUF footwear, the Kryptek Ankle Deck Boot is 100 percent waterproof, and it includes a boatload of performance features. • XpressCool lining to keep feet cool in warmer weather • Full-rubber, lightweight silhouettes • Slip-resistant chevron outsole • Pull-on tabs for easy on and off
WWW.XTRATUFBOOTS.COM
L.L. BEAN HYBRID FISHING SHIRT With a unique combination of fabrics, excellent ventilation and built-in sun protection, L.L. Bean’s Hybrid Fishing Shirt delivers unbeatable performance. This shirt is slightly fitted to provide on-thewater functionality while looking good. A relaxed fit through the chest and sleeve as well as stretchy knit upper arms with built-in articulation allow for a full range of motion when casting. A slightly slimmer waist keeps uneccesary fabric out of the way when you’re fishing. The Hybrid Fishing Shirt features a blend of woven and knit nylon and polyester with built-in UPF 50+ sun protection. It’s breathable, and a caped back for ventilation will keep you cool and comfortable during long days on the water. Polygiene treatment prevents the growth of odor causing bacteria to keep you from smelling worse than the fish you catch. L.L. Bean has designed a performance fishing shirt that looks as good as it performs on the water. Trim for attaching zingers and forceps and streamlined pockets for gear complete the package.
WWW.LLBEAN.COM
SCALESKINZ MULTIFUNCTIONAL HEADWEAR Capsmith Inc. is the No. 1 trusted source for fishing and outdoor enthusiasts with more than 32 years of experience in the headwear industry. Scaleskinz Multifunctional Headwear can be worn many different ways, and will attract all the right attention with colorful detail and sun protection. Scaleskinz feature a seamless tubular design that can be worn in 12 different ways, including a cap, scarf, facemask, headband, neck shade or shape it to fit your needs. This exclusive product offers maximum protection against sun, wind and rain. Scaleskinz are the perfect addition to retail stores that cater to fishing enthusiasts. Available designs include Dolphin, Tarpon, Marlin, Redfish and Bass. One Size Fits Most. For wholesale Scaleskinz inquiries, contact Capsmith Inc. at 1-800-228-3889, or buy online at www.ihatehats.com.
REEF CONTOURED CUSHIONED SANDALS
Reef has become the go-to purveyor of sandals that look as good as they feel on your feet. Their new Contoured Cushioned Sandals are so comfortable you might not even take them off to go to bed. These sandals feature molded rubber sponge footbeds, so you really are wearing pillows on the soles of your feet. Synthetic-nubuck-leather uppers are stylish and durable, and they are padded with jersey lining to feel super soft against your skin. Finally, these shoes are outfitted with anatomical arch support to keep you comfortable all day long, through any adventure. What more could you expect from a company that is world-renowned for making high-quality footwear for those who enjoy life on the water. Whether you’re headed offshore or to the tiki bar, Reef’s Contoured Cushioned Sandals will keep your feet looking as good as they feel.
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APPAREL Product Review PELAGIC BATTLE GLOVES Ever look at an old salt’s hands? Fishermen are right up there with mechanics for having the most abused hands out there. Pelagic, a company that designs clothing specifically for protecting anglers from the harsh marine environment, has the perfect solution for protecting your hands while they’re doing battle. Pelagic Battle Gloves give anglers an edge when fighting monsters of the deep. These heavy-duty “Sure Grip” fishing gloves are ideal for fishing heavy mono, braid or wire lines and are Kevlar reinforced for maximum protection from line cuts, blisters, sharp fins and teeth. Made with open fingertips for maximum dexterity and finger maneuverability, they protect your hands while allowing you to do the intricate work of rigging lines and baits and tying knots. These gloves increase angler endurance, yet are versatile enough to use for fish handling, bill grabbing, fish filleting, and many other offshore purposes. With Velcro security and stamped with the Pelagic deluxe logo, Battle Gloves are a must-have for any offshore adventure.
WWW.PELAGICGEAR.COM IN GOGS WE TRUST! The Kluch Signature Gog Tee features a simulated goggle eye portrait complete with $100 bill background and Kluch lettering. Available in a variety of styles, this shirt is built of a 100 percent ringspun cotton fabric for that true comfort fit. When it comes to sport fishing, having the right bait means everything! The “In Gogs We Trust” collection was inspired by those brutal days fishing tournaments and being down a release needing another bite to edge into first. After countless attempts of creating luck, teams turn to their wells in search of the best-looking bait to catapult them onto the podium. When all of a sudden the right short starts acting up and there he is!
BODY GLOVE 3T BAREFOOT WARRIOR
Many watersports require toe dexterity, and that’s where the Body Glove’s 3T Barefoot line of water shoes shines. Whether you’re a top athlete, a beginner, or somewhere in between, 3T Barefoot shoes are the perfect footwear for everything water. It doesn’t matter if it’s Stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking or just swimming off a rocky shore, the 3T Barefoot is up to the task. A patented three-toe design allows for dexterity in the toes that need it. A minimalist, neutral-balance foot bed allows for maximum ground feel while keeping your foot protected. Body Glove’s Integrated Drainage System (IDS) lets water drain out while preventing debris from entering the shoe. It can be worn either in or out of the water. Other features of the 3T Barefoot include adjustable shocklaces, easy slipon design, hybrid use for in or out of the water, zero heel lift, and the drainage system, which cools the foot with air circulation when out of water.
WWW.BODYGLOVE.COM OLUKAI PA‘A SANDALS
WWW.KLUCH.COM A good pair of sandals is as important to life on the water as a boat, maybe more important. The Hawaiian company OluKai knows this well, which is why they make footwear designed specifically for the ocean lifestyle. At the core of OluKai’s philosophy are quality, durability, comfort and craftsmanship, which means their sandals are crafted to perform and last. OluKai’s new PA‘A sandals were designed with on-the-water action in mind. Translated, PA‘A means secure in English, and these flip-flop-style kicks provide secure footing while battling fish from the deck of a boat or while scrambling out on a jetty to cast. They are fully adjustable on both straps with molded D-rings and micro hookand-loop to ensure a snug fit so the sandals won’t fall off your feet. Water resistant synthetic straps and soft, quick-drying jersey knit lining provide comfort in and out of the water. The footbed is crafted of anatomical, compression-molded EVA midsole with a brushed ICEVA drop-in. The outsole features a non-marking, wetgrip sticky rubber base enhanced with rubber pods for durability and maximum water traction. If you’re looking for a sandal that offers all-day comfort and secure footing in any situation, PA‘A sandals are about as good as it gets.
WICKED DRY & COOL PERFORMANCE SHIRTS Hook & Tackle, designers, manufacturers and distributors of authentic performance fishing apparel since 1963, introduces the new Wicked Dry & Cool collection. Designed with a breakthrough Wicked Dry & Cool proprietary fabric that wicks moisture while keeping you cool, the shirts feature radial sleeves for expansive arm movement. The extremely light yet durable fabrication offers UPF 50+ sun protection, quick dryness and odor resistance. Tested and proven to be the coolest shirts in the market, they are now available in four designs from sizes XS-3XL. For more information, contact Stan at srudman@sportailor.com or visit the site.
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Lake Erie’s
Big Brown Bass L
By Nick Carter ake Erie boasts some of the best smallmouth bass fishing in the world. And over the nearly 10,000 square miles of surface area on this massive lake, the Eastern Basin offers some of the best habitat for bronzebacks. The Eastern Basin is the deepest part of the lake and is separated by a ridge that runs north to south from Long Point in Ontario, Canada to Erie, Pennsylvania. Buffalo New York sits on the eastern shore at the mouth of the Niagara River. Anglers visiting Niagara Falls would be foolish not to set aside a day for fishing the irregular near-shore topography that makes the Eastern Basin such a good fishery. Biologists see incredible growth rates from smallmouth in this area, and 5- to 7-pound fish are a regular occurrence. Kayla Culp, a teacher from Ridgeway, Ontario, has spent years patterning smallies on the Canadian side of the lake. In the Canadian waters of Erie, bass season is closed in spring to protect bedding fish. This is not the case for U.S. waters, where anglers take advantage of pre-spawn migrations as early as April. When the fish move up onto sand flats and chunk rock and into the bays and major tributaries in early spring, it is a time for bumping the bottom in 15 to 20 feet of water with spoons, tube jigs or blades. It can be a grind to find fish, but anglers who set up over a school will find plenty of action and potential for giant smallmouth bass. Lakewide, bed fishing is generally frowned upon. When the Canadian season opens in late June, smallmouth are typically feeding aggressively during their post-spawn transition to deeper water. Culp
said early summer is a fun time to fish the lake. Smallies will be on the weed edges, and they are susceptible to run-and-gun tactics or trolling with fast-moving lures like jerkbaits, spinnerbaits and crankbaits. Location is everything when fish are spread out over so much water. Some enjoy drift fishing to find fish. Culp said to trust your fishfinder and cruise, looking for rock-to-sand transitions. This is especially important as fish move deeper. In summer, big smallies will hang around structure or transitions just off the bottom. The depth can go from 10 to 15 feet in early summer out to 30 feet as the water warms. This summer bite is Culp’s favorite of the year. She enjoys drop shotting soft plastics and tubes into schooled-up fish. When it’s on, 30 fish or more from 2 to 5 pounds and larger are a definite possibility. A natural approach is best in Erie’s clear waters. Dark colors like green and brown make up the majority of Culp’s soft-plastic arsenal. This makes sense. It fits the color scheme of the round goby. These little bottom dwellers invaded the lake in the mid 1990s, and smallies developed a taste for them. Biologists have estimated that gobies account for up to 75 percent of an Erie smallmouth’s diet. The goby invasion is widely credited for accelerated growth rates of smallmouth in the lake. For more bass fishing on Lake Erie, go to
CAMFRESHWATER.COM
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The Freeport Meat Run
Lorem ipsum
An Annual Trip Of A Lifetime By Nick Carter
By CAM Staff - Photos Courtesy of Picture Perfect Charters
F
or some anglers, the fishing trip of a lifetime is an annual event. Team Finster, out of Fort Myers, Fla., fishes top offshore tournaments, but one of the highlights of their fishing year is an annual spring meat trip that coincides with the arrival of big yellowfin tuna in the Bahamas. Team member Pete Milisci, who operates Picture Perfect Charters out of Fort Myers, feels it’s well worth hauling Team Captain Zac Carpenter’s 34’ SeaVee three hours across the peninsula to launch off Florida’s east coast near Fort Lauderdale. Big yellowfin move through in late April and early May, and five guys spend the better part of the week chasing birds and filling fish boxes. The trip starts with provisioning and bait. As charter captains, team members begin saving and freezing leftover bait from charter trips a month in advance because chumming is key. They prefer fishing live bait, so the livewell is loaded with pilchards and threadfins before they leave. Provisions and gear are crammed into every available hold before they set out on what should be a couple hour run in front of twin Mercury Verado 300s across the Gulf Stream to Carpenter’s condo in Port Lucaya, Freeport, Grand Bahama. The crossing always takes longer than it should. It’s difficult for a boatload of anglers to pass up fish along the way. “Last trip, we had all the fish boxes full before we even got there,” Milisci said. “We came upon a whole tree adrift with mahi all over it. They were good mahi, too, all gaffers.” It’s a good thing there’s an ice machine at the condo. Even when cleaning fish at the dock, there is opportunity to put more meat on ice. Milisci said tarpon and big mutton snapper appear to clean up the scraps. Cooked whole and fresh, those snapper are fine eating. The main event begins after checking in with customs and unloading. “The fishing is right out front. It’s within 10 miles,” Milisci said. “You lose sight of land, and you’re in ’em.” Tuna move constantly, and they move fast. Finding fish is a matter of finding birds on the radar. Huge groups of birds are typically found over bonito, so Team Finster is looking for smaller pockets of birds that are a giveaway for tuna. They never pass a frigatebird without checking it.
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When fish are found, the boat is maneuvered in front of the anticipated direction of the school’s travel. The engines drop into neutral and heavy chumming begins with a month’s worth of frozen baitfish. “The fish are on the surface. They’re coming up blasting baits, and the birds are diving on the bait they push up,” Milisci said. “Sometimes you’ll see fins coming up on your bait.” When fishing in a maelstrom of 10- to 15-pound blackfin tuna and yellowfins weighing 30 to well over 100-pounds, it’s important to fish heavy gear. There are also sharks mixed in, and they will leave nothing but a fish head at the first hint of blood in the water. Anglers must crank hard and fast with 60w and 80w Penn Internationals spooled with 200-pound-test mono and 200- to 300-pound leaders. Anglers either reel fish in from the rod holder with bent-butt rods or fight them with a belt. Tuna will eat dead bait, but the team prefers presenting pilchards and threads on a slack line until they run out of live bait. Milisci said the fish are smart enough to let a bait go if they feel the slightest amount of tension on the line, so that slack is important until a fish eats. Then it becomes a grueling race against the sharks. The reward is almost immediate when a fish hits the deck. Wasabi and soy sauce are kept on-hand, and knives go to work while the rod-man catches his breath. For more on Team Finster or to contact Zac Carpenter or Pete Milisci, see finsterfishing.com. To book an inshore trip with Milisci out of Fort Myers, go to www.pictureperfectcharters.com. For highlights from this Tuna catch, go to
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Spawning Phase Will Play A Big Role In Conroe Bassmaster Classic
K
elly Jordon is not a weatherman. He can’t say for sure what the conditions will be when 52 of the world’s best anglers descend on Lake Conroe, an hour outside of Houston, Texas for the GEICO Bassmaster Classic presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods, March 24-26. But as a Texas native and a 22-year veteran of the Bassmaster Tournament Trail, Jordon knows bass are likely to be in some phase of the spring spawn— and he said the angler who best identifies that phase is likely to be the winner of the event. “If I was going to guess—depending on what the weather does—I’d say we’ll be toward the final quarter of the spawn,” said Jordon. “There will still be some fish on the beds, but there will also be a lot of postspawn fish.” A spawn/postspawn scenario could provide a lot of options, and it could certainly lead to some giant fish being brought to the scales at the Houston Astros’ Minute Maid Park. Jordon said the bluegill will likely be coming up to spawn, and big bass can often be found feeding around bluegill beds. Male bass are also likely to be guarding recently hatched fry, and big females that are hungry from the spawn could be roaming the shallows. Though some bass are likely to still be on the beds, Jordon said he doesn’t expect sight fishing to be a dominant technique. “I don’t think somebody can win on sight fishing alone,” he said. “You’re likely to see several giant fish caught off beds or maybe a key 5-pounder at a time when someone really needs it. But I don’t think it’s something you’ll be able to totally hang your hat on.” As for the type of structure that’s likely to be most popular, Jordon said anglers will have their pick. “The water color will depend on how much rain we get and which part of the river you’re fishing,” he said. “The water way up on the upper end could be a lot more stained than the lower end. But when you get up there, you’ll find plenty of backwater stuff, some side creeks, some marinas, some residential
areas with canals, big gigantic flats—a little bit of everything.” The lower end of the lake could appeal to dock fishing specialists. “The lower half of the lake—if not more than half—is pretty much wall-to-wall boat docks and seawalls,” Jordon said. “Whether you want to fish shallow shoreline cover or deep shoreline Bassmaster Elite Series angler and cover, there’s tons of it Classic competitor Bradley Roy caught available. You can find this giant largemouth during pre-pracseawalls that may have tice on Lake Conroe. 10 feet of water around them. “You’ll find flat banks and deep banks. It’s a really dynamic place—and since we’ll be in the spring spawning season, the person who finds not only where the fish are, but where they’re headed, is going to be the one who’s in the best position to win.” With the phases of the spawn playing a major role and Conroe’s reputation for producing big bass, there’s a good chance there will be some 30-pound sacks brought to weigh-ins. For more on last years Bassmaster Classic, go to
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FLY FISHING
WADE FISHING ESSENTIALS
W
ade fishing is one of the most rewarding ways to target shallow-water fish like bonefish or redfish. However, there is more to wade fishing than just walking on a white sand flat or beach and casting to fish. To make the wade fishing experience more enjoyable, here are a few tips to help you make longer casts, protect your feet, blend into your environment, stay safe and catch more fish! Stripping Basket There is nothing more frustrating than fishing from the beach and having your fly line wrap and tangle around your legs and feet especially after you have made a perfect cast to a school of stripers, a corbina or surf perch. The simplest way to solve this problem is to invest in a stripping basket. Made from a variety of materials and available in many styles, a stripping basket will assist you in managing your line. Removing your concern for loose line will allow you more time to concentrate on improving your casting and distance. A stripping basket is not limited to beach fishing, either. More and more anglers are also accepting the value of the stripping basket on boats. A taller free-standing cousin to the wearable basket allows you to keep your line off the deck and avoid its many potential hang-ups including boat cleats, shoe laces, coolers and the other obstructions on a boat’s deck. Wading Footwear There are hundreds of different types of practical shoes for fishing. Select a shoe with high ankle support, a firm and solid toe and stiff arch support. Since you’ll be wading in a variety of bottom conditions from soft mud, soft sand, hard sand and even reefs or oyster beds, it’s a good idea to get a shoe that has a thick sole to prevent punctures. Blend In Blend into your environment. Match your clothes to your
surroundings. If you are fishing the beach, wear neutral colors like tan, light green or even brown. When fishing the flats, a light blue shirt, and stone-colored shirts or pants are your best choice. Also don’t overlook camouflage outfits when stalking spooky fish in shallow water. There are plenty of camo patterns on today’s market, and aside from looking good, wearing camouflage allows you to blend into the environment. Don’t Get Lost One of the worst fishing nightmares is becoming lost or disoriented on the ocean, on the flats or in a marsh’s maze. A handheld GPS can prevent this terrifying situation. Also, if you find an outstanding area where the fishing is red-hot, you can mark it in your GPS and return to the exact spot whenever you choose. Most GPS units contain moon phase and tidal information, which are keys to successful saltwater fly fishing.
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B
ass anglers use lipless crankbaits in many circumstances and ways. I believe it is not used enough for reds, trout, tarpon and snook. In fact, a lipless crankbait is one of the most effective baits to catch fish in shallow water, and it’s definitively one of those I use often. And I’m not alone. When Louisiana’s famous Team Broussard was at the very top of their tournament career a few years ago, “Cajun” Phil and Capt. Kevin had many wins including the Redfish Cup and Team of the Year titles. The secret weapon they were hiding from media and competitors alike was a Flatt Shadd 50 snagless. That small, compact, lipless crankbait puts out vibrations that travel far through the water, catching the predator’s attention as if it was of a much larger bait. The quick, side-to-side motion also creates a lot of flash, adding visual attraction. When I was the Mepps spinner designer 20 years ago, I worked closely with scientists who had an understanding of the factors that attract predatory fish. The type of vibration and its volume were key. Both with inline spinners and lipless crankbaits, moving a significant amount of water is essential for creating signals that are much larger than many other types of baits. This is why baits with spinning blades and those that emit vibrations commonly catch large fish, even when the lures are small. Often, a predatory fish is first alerted to a potential meal by its lateral line, a natural radar. These small baits fool the fish into thinking it is chasing down much larger and more significant prey. How do you use a lipless crankbait best when you’re on the flats or casting close to the mangroves? If it is deep enough, you can cast and burn it or slow roll it to offer consistent action and cover lots of water as a search bait. This is the main way I use a lipless bait when targeting tarpon or large channel bass (red drum) in main inlets, estuaries and anywhere there is enough depth and preferably some current. But for the true, shallow inshore and backcountry fishing, I use them as I would a soft jerkbait rigged on a jig head. I twitch-twitch-pause and yo-yo it. The great thing with a vibrating bait is every time you pull on the rod, you can feel the bait reacting. Action can be constant when fish are aggressive, but for cold water or finicky fish, don’t hesitate to let the lure pause on the ground for a few seconds here and there. You might be surprised to find the majority of bites happen on the drop, or even when the lure is lying motionless. Fish can be so hungry for it that they swallow it in a snap, resulting more than you can imagine in hook sets deep within the fish’s mouth. If you haven’t thrown a small lipless crankbait around in the shallows, give it a try. You might be pleasantly surprised. Patrick Sebile is the owner and lure designer of Sebile Innovative Fishing (www.sebile.com).
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For tips and techniques on fishing with lipless crankbait, go to
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SOUTHEAST
How To Catch A
$10,000 Striped Bass By Capt. Clay Cunningham
F
or those who fish for striped bass in reservoirs, early spring awakens big fish fever. In case you haven’t heard, the Greater Atlanta Area edition of The Angler Magazine has placed a $10,000 bounty on a 50-pound striper caught from Georgia’s Lake Lanier. And the big-fish bite is on at this 59-square-mile impoundment of the Chattahoochee River north of Atlanta. With longer days and rising water temperatures, stripers are beginning to feel the urge to spawn. The next eight weeks are the peak of the year to catch the biggest striped bass in the lake. The last few years, several people have come very close to claiming the bounty. It is only a matter of time before it happens. The spawn increases a striper’s metabolism. They eat more frequently and are not as selective. This leads to big fish gobbling herring with hooks hanging from their heads. Fish will also be very shallow in water that warms faster and draws baitfish. This weeds out a lot of water an angler must search and reduces the potential for break-offs in Lanier’s deep timber. Two primary baits will be used to catch big stripers, live herring and gizzard shad. Both should be pulled shallow on a freeline. A freeline is nothing more than a line with a hook pulled behind the boat. The hook should always be matched to the size of the bait rather than the fish you hope to catch. Rig a 7 ½-foot Shakespeare medium light striper rod with 15-pound Trilene Big Game on a Penn Squall 20LC Linecounter Reel. Tie in an 80-pound Spro Power Swivel and a 5- to 8-foot leader of 15-pound Trilene 100% Fluorocarbon. Use a Gamakatsu 1/0 to 3/0 Octopus hook depending on the size of the herring. For gizzard shad, step it up to a 5/0 hook, and add a stinger rig to the mongo gizzards. Talk to the guys at local shops like Hammond’s and Oakwood Bait & Tackle about the stinger setup. It is a discussion in itself. The most productive area for trolling herring is over open water. Mid-lake is reliable, and if you can see the local landmark Browns Bridge, you are in a good spot. Pull baits about 1 mph on the trolling motor, and cover as much water as
possible. About the time you get distracted thinking nothing will happen, a rod will get hammered. Shallow flats are prime targets for pulling gizzards. Any shallow flat can hold big fish in spring. The 50-pounder you’re looking for will be hanging on the deep edge of the flat waiting for you to drag a gizzard off the drop. Soon as she sees the shad, a torpedo will explode under your bait. The bites are so ferocious you will think a bowling ball has fallen from the sky. Who will catch the 50-pound striper? I am curious to see. Capt. Clay Cunningham operates Catching Not Fishing Guide Service and is a full-time striper guide on Lake Lanier. Contact him at 770-630-2673 or at catchingnotfishing@yahoo.com. For more HUGE Striper catches, go to
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SOUTH CAROLINA
Protecting
S.C.’s Salt Marsh By Aileen Goldstein
H
er office is a 200,000-acre salt marsh estuary. Her company vehicle is a 25-foot, flat-bottomed boat. Her dress code is quick-dry pants and shirts with SPF. Her hours are mandated by sea turtles and dolphins. Capt. Amber Kuehn is living her passion every day. Raised on the banks of the May River and operating the family boat since the age of 12, Kuehn is no stranger to the water. After earning a bachelor’s in biology from the University of Georgia and a master’s in marine biology from Nova Southeastern University, Kuehn went on to obtain a captain’s license while working on dive boats in Florida and Hawaii. Five years later, she returned home to Bluffton, S.C. Kuehn now manages the Sea Turtle Protection Program at the Coastal Discovery Museum on Hilton Head Island. Kuehn also provides eco tours aboard her own boat, Spartina. Kuehn’s boat was custom created by Jones Brothers Marine and is a stable, 11-foot-wide bateau boat capable of holding 24 people. “I wanted to do field trips and to take a whole classroom out at once, and this one will do that,” she said. “The ecology tour talks about every-
thing from the mud flat to the marsh grass to the microorganisms and the bigger animals and how they all depend on each other.” Kuehn also offers guests an opportunity to observe scientists at work during the dolphin research to see a drop in the salinity in a salt marsh estuary, tour, a partnership with the University of South you are going to start to see larval animals dying and Carolina at Beaufort’s marine biology department. your juveniles will be less and less.” While the recreational and commercial fishers Associate Professor of Biology, Eric Montie, and Kuehn collaborated to create an experience for pas- will eventually notice a decrease in the number of sengers while interns collect data for research. The fish, the data collected by interns will provide facdepartment specialized in bioacoustics, which is the tual numbers that can be used by agencies to create recording of the underwater soundscapes. Multiple limits and regulations in efforts to maintain healthy sound recording devices are submerged in the May populations. Kuehn’s favorite part of her work is when she is River to capture the sounds created by spawning fish, dolphins and other marine animals. The devic- able to teach about the importance and fragility of es also measure the salinity, temperature, pH levels, the salt marsh. “I really like it when I get the people on and they are interested. I have the most rewardoxygen levels and more. The collected data is used to assess the health ing experience with locals because they are really inof the fish population and the river. Kuehn stress- terested and they have no idea about how awesome and unique it is here,” she said. es the value of this research: “This is important, especialTo see a sea turtle hatchling release at Coastal Discovery Museum, go to ly when Bluffton is the fastest growing municipality in South Carolina. If you start
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Attention Advertising Sales Reps Have you ever wondered what it would be like to own the media company that you were selling advertising for? Ever considered how different your life would be if you didn’t have to hand over the bulk of your sales revenue to your employer? Have you ever thought about how much easier your sales job could be if you didn’t have to beg your sales manager for every little extra thing that you wanted to give your customer? Ever wondered what it would be like to control your own time? You don’t have to wonder anymore. Coastal Angler and its freshwater component The Angler Magazine are offering magazine franchises throughout the continental U.S. and abroad. Now, you can be the publisher and completely control the advertising department of your magazine. After nine years of franchising this magazine and with 42 current locations, we can say with confidence that these home-based magazine locations can be opened in nearly any location with a minimum population base of 500,000 and an active angling community. We have also identified our ideal candidate as being someone with previous media sales experience. Male or female, success in this endeavor is gauged more on advertising sales than fishing prowess.
Michigan Offers $1 Mil To Stop Asian Carp
If you are a current or former media advertising sales rep, you owe it to yourself to check out our franchise opportunities. For more information, call 888-800-9794 or email info@ coastalanglermagazine.com.
Photo by Jason Jenkins
T
he Michigan Department of Natural Resources has put out a global call to the public, offering $1 million for the best proposal to stop invasive Asian carp from reaching the Great Lakes. These carp are the ones everyone knows from videos of big fish jumping in the air when startled by passing boats. They are fast-growing filter feeders that can reach weights up to 100 pounds, and they are highly prolific, producing as many as a million eggs. They have the potential to disrupt entire ecosystems, and have been called an immediate and grave biological threat to the Great Lakes. Currently, silver and bighead carp are backed up in Chicago waterways just 10 miles from Lake Michigan at three electric barriers. Despite these barriers and rotenone treatments, which kill all fish species in an area, environmental DNA testing suggests that some silver and bighead carp have made it past the barriers toward Lake Michigan. Researchers predict bighead and silver carp pose a significant threat to disrupt the food chain that supports the native fish of the Great Lakes, such as walleye, yellow perch and lake whitefish. Such a disruption may result in diminished recreational and commercial fishing opportunities. The Associated Press reports that the federal government recently approved $42 million to prevent these carp from reaching the Great Lakes. If you are the one with the million-dollar idea that will stop the scourge, submit proposals at www.michigan.gov.
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Media Sales Representatives wanted immediately for fishing magazine franchisee opportunity. Must have 2 to 5 years media sales experience. Dependable transporation, a love of the outdoors and a good solid work ethic. Type A’s welcome.
For Information Contact Editor in Chief Ben Martin at 888-800-7974 or email at camads@coastalanglermagazine.com
2/14/17 5:02 PM
Lake Murray March Fishing Report
I
n the month of March, the water temperatures on Lake Murray will begin to warm, rising to the 60-degree mark and above by the end of the month. Fish will be in full swing of pre-spawn and typically beginning to spawn by the end of the month, roaming the banks and into the shallows. Fishing techniques for largemouth bass will differ depending on which end of the lake you are fishing. Lake wide, look for largemouth to be staging on secondary points or deeper banks outside of spawning areas, as well as moved into spawning coves with sand, rock or hard bottoms. On the upper reaches of the lake, from Dreher Island up river, where the water has more color, look for fish to be further along and shallower, in most cases positioned around spawning areas on visible cover or adjacent deep water on steeper rocky banks or points. Techniques of choice will be slower techniques with crayfish and shad mimicking baits toward the beginning of the month, with the fish giving chase to moving baits in preparation of spawn by the
end of the month. Good lures to use are crankbaits that dive to the 2- to 4-foot range like an IMA square bill, Greenfish Tackle spinnerbaits, flatsided crankbaits like the Ima Shaker, soft plastics creature baits, tubes and beaver type baits such as the Reins Craw Tube and Punchin’ Predator, and finesse worms in a Natural or Green Pumpkin color. Start with moving baits during cloudy or windy conditions, and switch to slower moving baits as the day gets brighter and without wind. Focus on areas with rock or a hard bottom, as well as docks built on black floats. On the lower end of the lake, from Dreher Island to the dam, try slower moving bottom baits, such as a Greenfish Tackle jig, shaky head or a dropshot like the Reins 5-inch Bubbling Shaker in a Watermelon or Green Pumpkin color, especially during times with no wind. If there is wind, focus on suspending and moving baits like the IMA Flit and Ima Pinjack 200 on points and swimbaits like
a Reins 4-inch Fat Rockvibe or an Alabama Rig with small swimbaits or grubs around docks. Look for fish to be staging more on secondary points around rock and docks with black floats adjacent to spawning areas. The month of March is when the fish start to venture from their prespawn staging areas into spawning coves, especially on the upper end of the lake. This is a great month to catch fish in predictable areas, as the fish can be easy to pattern. Bass will be in the backs of creeks and pockets, holding on the last deep water areas around rocks and docks, and set up mostly in the 10- to 20-foot range off of points and in ditches. Up the river and in the backs of creeks and coves, where resident fish are more prevalent, fish could be as shallow as a couple feet in areas that hold heat. Be sure to focus on areas with bait, hard-bottom areas, and Northshore banks that get the most sunlight and the most protection from cold North winds. Down the lake where bass are set up slightly deeper, they will
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be feeding on blueback herring, white perch or crayfish, and will be positioned on secondary points adjacent to spawning coves. A great way to get out, enjoy the outdoors, and do a little fishing is to book a trip with one of the Lake Murray area guides. I am a certified Fisheries Biologist, Coast Guard Approved, and a full-time largemouth bass guide. For the past 11 years, I have fished fulltime and competitively across the country on the BASS and FLW trails. I have a lifetime of fishing experience to offer including a variety of techniques of your choice, tournament preparation, and/or electronics education. I would love to share my knowledge with you on the water and enjoy a day of fishing. Michael Murphy USCG Approved Merchant Mariner Licensed (770) 605-6373 www.MichaelMurphyFishing.com Michael@MichaelMurphyFishing.com
MARCH 2017
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Mt. Pleasant Pier
Fishing Forecast
T
he winter weather this year has made for some really unpredictable fishing. This time of year can be the hardest time of year for a pier or surf angler if Mother Nature chooses not to cooperate. Cold, short days spent cooped up inside can be torture for someone who loves to spend time fishing Lowcountry piers and beaches with friends and family. Thankfully, March will see longer days and hopefully warming air and water temperatures. With the warming temperatures, anglers should expect to see a few different species reappear near the pier. Look for the return of flounder and black drum, while sheepshead should still be hanging around the pilings. Hopefully, anglers will be able to continue targeting red drum and trout as well during March. These predators should become more aggressive as it warms, and mud minnows fished either under a cork or on a Carolina rig could be the ticket. Cut bait or fresh shrimp should also produce as the activity bite increases. This winter, a number of pier regulars have been successful with artificial lures when targeting trout. Some of the pier favorites are Billy Bay silver/gold flake, Zman slim swims, and Vudu shrimp in a variety of colors. Check in with pier staff to get some helpful advice or information, and then head down the pier to see what’s biting in March. Visit Charlestoncountyparks.com and click on the Mount Pleasant Pier page for additional information. Chris Pounder, Manager Mount Pleasant Pier www.charlestoncountyparks.com (843) 762-9946
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Jeremy Eaton and his daughter, Aryanna, with a 9-pound, 9-ounce sheepshead caught in February. 2 COLUMBIA/CHARLESTON
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MARCH 2017
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The Waller Report
M
We don’t mind if you smoke...
arch has arrived, and spring is not far behind. This month can be a tough month to fish. The cold fronts are still coming through, but there will be some really nice days to get out as well. In March, the inshore fishing is pretty much limited to redfish and sheepshead. Reds should still be in the large winter schools, unless we have a really warm month and they split off into smaller schools. Fishing, this month, depends on weather and temperatures and is typically better later in the month. As the waters start to warm from the spring sun, the fish will eat and feed more aggressively as their bodies warm with the rising water temperatures. Bait is still not in the creeks, so you will have to buy bait from your local tackle shop or use artificials. Just as you did during the winter months, you will want to fish plastics slowly. Expect the fish to start eating better again as the water reaches about 60 degrees. On my trips, I target sheepshead and look to fish in low water around docks, pilings or trees with oysters or barnacles on them. I use fresh oysters or shrimp if fiddler crabs are not available. Other baits to try are clams, blue crab chunks or sand fleas. March is one of the best months to catch quality sheepshead from the reefs off our coast as this is the time of the year they spawn. I used to think that all big fish migrated offshore to spawn and then returned later in the spring, but I have found over the years that the fish migrate in and out. This month, we catch a lot of small fish inshore, but there are still larger fish to be caught. As an old friend once told me, “You will not catch anything unless you get on the water.” The fishing will get better as the temperatures rise, as will the variety of fish that can be caught. The reefs are pretty consistent all year with black sea bass, weakfish, reds, sheepshead and black drum that can be landed out there any month, along with other species mixed in and still others arriving when the waters warm even more. Capt. Michael Waller | SaltFisher Charters www.saltfisher.com | (843) 224-8197 or | (843) 343-7538
Just keep your butts out of the water. Sincerely, The fishes
IF YOU ADVERTISED HERE 10,000 READERS WOULD HAVE SEEN YOUR AD. Contact Eddie Hardgrove • 910.264.5487 eddie@coastalanglermagazine.com for more information
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MARCH 2017
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Folly Beach Fishing Pier
OCEAN ISLE
FISHING CENTER SPRING KICKOFF & IN-WATER BOAT SHOW
T
he Ocean Isle Fishing Center’s in-water, center console fishing boat show demonstration event offers a rare opportunity to see and experience top-name brands all at the same place and the same time. In fact, the only place in the Mid-Atlantic that you are able to demo Yellowfin, Contender, Freeman, Onslow Bay, Invincible and Sea Vee, together in one spot, is at the Ocean Isle Fishing Center. When questioned about his motivation behind the event, Capt. Brant McMullan, the event director responded, “I like to come up with events that I myself would like to see and attend. I suppose, in a way, I’m simply creating my own entertainment and then inviting others to join me. And what I want to see is the best of the best, side by side, in the same sea conditions, available for me to test ride. You just can’t get a true comparison without being able to see them all side by side and then test them on the same sea. Despite the fact that these top brands are competitors, the really cool thing is that when I brought them together last year, they showed a ton of respect toward each other. I think they recognized that the opportunity to be at the event was an acknowledgement that their brand was among an elite class. And the public really seemed to appreciate the opportunity as well. There was no hands-down best boat. Folks walked away with a better idea of the strengths of each brand, and the consensus of favorites was quite varied.” This year, Invincible and Sea Vee have joined the list of attendees, as they are certainly in the top of their class. These are traditionally south Florida boats, but the manufacturers recognize the strength Mike with a 1-pound whiting of the Carolina market and want their product to be seen with other more regionally recognized brands. Boat viewing and demonstrations onger days and warmer weigh 1 to 2 pounds, but will be available Saturday, March 25th from 10am-4pm and Sunday, water have brought the March and April can produce March 26th from 12pm-4pm. No reservations are needed, and the bait fish back to the Folly Pier. 9-plus pounders as they event is free to the public. We’re seeing spot, bluefish and migrate northwards up the Capt. Brant McMullan whiting migrate alongside Folly’s coast. Bluefish are known for coast, which is the first sign of their speed and feeding frenzy the ocean coming back to life. behavior when in large schools. Whiting are a year-round catch Menhaden, shrimp and squid off the Folly Pier. They typically are on their menu, and they’ll only weigh around a pound; even eat other smaller bluefish. however, their abundance makes But the circle of life continues, up for it. Reel in a handful, and as many blues are used as live you’ve got enough fillets for a bait for targeting mackerel and dinner for two. It’s no secret out tarpon. here that a piece of shrimp tossed With more consecutive warm to the bottom just off the pier days to come, pier fishing only will produce a bite. If you find it gets better and better. But as hard to set the hook, try a smaller always, fishing is fishing; so piece of shrimp. This will create at the very least, come enjoy a greater chance of the whiting a relaxing day out at the Folly biting the hook rather than just Beach Pier. Contact Eddie Hardgrove • 910.264.5487 stealing your bait for a free meal. eddie@coastalanglermagazine.com Bluefish are another common Joey Crawford catch, but spring is when you’ll Folly Beach Fishing Pier for more information get the big one. They typically Jcrawford@ccprc.com
L
IF YOU ADVERTISED HERE
10,000
READERS WOULD HAVE SEEN YOUR AD.
6 COLUMBIA/CHARLESTON
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2/13/17 5:04 PM
T
Charleston’s March Fishing Forecast
he key word for March is transition. March will show us the first signs of spring here in the Lowcountry. The days will be longer, and the weather will be warmer than the past few months, but we will still have some cold days. Fishing here in Charleston will be hot and cold as well. Some days will have lots of action, while other days will be a little tough. Because the weather is so inconsistent in March, you have to change your tactics to catch fish consistently. When the weather is calm and cool, the redfish will be schooled up in their winter spots and you can have some great sight fishing to large schools on the flats. When the water turns warm, however, the fish often spread out. Because of this, you have to be flexible with how you fish. The fish might be in one location feeding like mad one day and be completely void of the area the next day. When this happens, you must think like a fish and figure out where they went. Sometimes, they have simply moved around the bend, while other times they may have moved to the other side of the channel. With all of the change and transition that occurs in March, you also have to change the type of bait you use each day. When fish are schooled up, the DOA shrimp or jerk baits will
Nice springtime sheepshead. work very well. However, when they spread out, you might find the water is off color or the wind is blowing, in which case you may need to try anything from cracked crab to cut mullet to mud minnows. You will find that the redfish are finicky and will eat only one thing on a given day, while the next day, they will only eat something else. This happens more in March than any other time of the year. If the weather is on the warmer side, you might start catching
trout by the end of the month. I would use a DOA shrimp or mud minnow under a popping cork to catch this species. I like to drift a cork along the grass later in the day when the water is the warmest as the trout that have moved into the marsh will go into warmer water next to the grass looking for something to eat. The key thing to remember is to be flexible and willing to change when, where and how you are fishing to catch fish in March.
A great way to spend the day on the water is to book one of the area’s great guides. Having fished in Charleston for almost 22 years, I am extremely knowledgeable and experienced in this area. As owner and operator of Shore Thang Charters, I would love to share my expertise with you on the water. Capt. Mark Phelps Shore Thang Charters www.ShoreThangCharters.com ShoreThangCharter@hotmail.com (843) 475-1274
Photo courtesy of Eddie Hardgrove
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MARCH 2017
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March Pier and Surf Fishing
CASTING A LINE By Jiggin’ Jerry
W
hen it comes to recreational fishing, the phrase casting a line is exactly what you’re doing. Regardless of your fishing rod, reel, tackle or bait, without your fishing line, this endeavor could never take place. Average anglers will typically gauge their purchase of fishing line by weight, price - often the least expensive one - and how many yards they can get for their buck. Their purchased line may work, and they might even land a nice fish. In most cases, however, if fishing line is judged exclusively with this criteria, anglers find themselves with bird nests, tangles, non-flexible lines, curled up lines, and worst of all, the loss of a great fish because the line failed. Deciding what type of line to purchase can be more complicated than you may think. There are important decisions to make, and it is all according to the rod and reel you are using and what type of casting you are doing. Most fishing rods have a weight range for the fishing line required. For instance, if you look on the side of your rod, usually on the underside past the handle, you might see a rod line weight of 10- to 17-lb. test. The same requirements are listed on most fishing reels, but fishing reels will also supply an estimate of how many yards the reel will accommodate for an average of three line weights. Thus, a good place to start is by checking these ratings on your rod and reel. To aid you with this decision, I
Figure A
will explain some differences in fishing lines. The three main types of fishing lines used today are braided, monofilament and fluorocarbon. The diameter (thickness of the line) of each of these lines will increase with the higher weight rating of line; and the thicker the line is, the amount of yardage you can put on your fishing reel will be reduced. Braided lines are amongst the strongest of the three. It has virtually no stretch, and its diameter is drastically reduced compared to its weight rating, allowing you to spool your reel with a higher pound test and more yardage. Braided lines are often coated with a covering to help them move smoothly through your rod guides, but this coating will eventually wear off, resulting in a rougher line with decreased color. Braided lines are not transparent and can be seen easily in clearer water, so using a transparent leader is an important combination when using braid. Monofilament line can be
Figure B Figure C colored and come in various qualities, with some performing better than others. Monofilament line will create a memory in the line, meaning it can hold a round coil look in the line due to the wrap around your reel’s spool. Monofilament will also stretch under a load, making hook sets slower. Fluorocarbon lines in most cases are clear. Fluorocarbon is a stiff line and will hold more of a memory than monofilament, but fluorocarbon is more abrasiveresistant than monofilament and has less stretch. During summer months when the temperature is hotter, both fluorocarbon and monofilament will have less of a memory and be more flexible. However, when using monofilament in the winter in really cold climates, keep in mind that it becomes hard and greatly reduces its flexibility, it generates even more of a memory, and it can become brittle. I, personally, have not experienced braid being affected by weather conditions. When using spinning reels, it is important to observe the line
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lay of the reel, which means as you fill the spool, you want your fishing line to spool evenly from top to bottom. If the line is not even on a spinning reel when casting, you may find a number of loops moving forward at one time, creating a bird nest in the middle of your fishing rod. This will discourage anyone from using the line purchased; but in most cases, this is not the line’s fault. If you see a coning effect, when more line is being wrapped up towards the top of the spool or wrapping towards the bottom of the spool, you may have to adjust your spool height on your reel. Higher quality reels will usually have washers in the box with the purchase that will allow you to do just this. This is done by applying the washers under the spool on the oscillating shaft (Figure A). So, if your line lay is heavier towards the bottom of your spool (Figure B), your spool needs to be lowered by removing some of these washers. If your line lay is heavier towards the top (Figure C), your spool needs to be raised, and you will have to add washers to the shaft. Once you have finally evened the line of your reel, you should find yourself casting like a champ with less headaches and more time to enjoy a day on the water. I hope this helps you with your next fishing adventure. Until next time, good luck out there and have fun fishing!
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SOMETIMES SMALLER IS
Better
W
ith spring quickly approaching and fishing continuing to roll in full swing, anglers are always looking for a good time to bend a rod and catch some fish. One of the most anticipated events for anglers in the Lowcountry is the migration of American shad that move up the rivers to spawn. The run usually peaks during late February into mid-March. Sometimes referred to as poor man’s tarpon, the American shad is an anadromous fish. This means that most of the fish’s life is spent living in saltwater, but they return to fresh water to spawn. The rising temperatures of spring prompt these fish to return to waters in which they were born to lay eggs. The males, often called bucks, arrive first followed closely by the females, which are often called roe. Adult shad will return to the ocean after spawning. Juvenile shad will spend their first year of life in freshwater but will begin to gather in schools by autumn to swim to the ocean. The American shad is an awesome fish to fight during the shad run. Shad tend to run through in schools, so most of the time when one angler hooks up, the next angler will be hooking up within seconds. When shad fishing, high number days are not uncommon; however, be sure to stay up to date on regulations from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) if you decide to take any. Shad can sometimes be caught while trolling, but most anglers like to set up and drop anchor in the shallower water and cast into the deeper water with a good current. Light tackle is my favorite way 10 COLUMBIA/CHARLESTON
to catch these tarpon-like fish. I use a 5-foot, 6-inch ultralight Ugly Stik Elite spinning rod. I like to pair that rod with a 2500 Shimano Stradic CI4+ with 10lb. Daiwa J-Braid. This combination allows me to cast and have a fun fight while still having enough strength to handle the current or other obstacles. The lure of choice tends to change with the day and angler. My choice lure for catching shad would be a small curly tail plastic grub on a 1/8 rounded jig head. When in search of good jigs and plastics, I tend to go straight for typical crappie jigs. Strike King Mr. Crappie 2-inch chartreuse and pink curly tailed plastics are among my go-to baits when fishing for this species. I also enjoy using the pink or chartreuse Strike King Mr. Crappie jig heads. When fishing these lures, it is best to cast into the deeper water allowing the jig to fall to the bottom. Sometimes, the shad will take the lure on the fall; however, the majority of the time, shad will attack on the retrieve. Slowly work the lure back to the boat and wait for the fun to begin. When fishing for American shad, you may also wish to try for herring as they can put up a good little fight and you can catch multiple fish at a time. Herring move mostly in large schools near banks, and I tend to fish for them while also fishing for shad. However, as they are
MARCH 2017
different fish, I tend to change my tackle slightly. While keeping the same rod and reel combo, I enjoy using sabiki rigs to catch herring. Like other baitfish, they are attracted to the rig, and at times you may snag three or four herring at once. During the late winter and early spring when spawning fish are running and anglers want some action, American shad and herring are the way to go. Head on out and see these fish jump and try their hardest to spit the hook and keep on swimming. Come on by Palmetto State Armory and visit our Fishing Outpost with any questions you have or fun shad stories to tell. Get on out there and join in on a Lowcountry tradition, where a smaller grub is sometimes better.
Lowcountry Inshore Charters Fishing | Crabbing | Shrimping | Shelling | Bird & Dolphin Watching
Capt. Rob Bennett is a local of the Kiawah-Seabrook area. He has been a licensed Coast Guard Captain since graduating from the University of South Carolina in 1981. As a native of the local waters, he knows the proper techniques on where to find the fish at certain times and certain tides.
Call Or Email Today to Schedule a Trip
(843) 367-3777
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Rod Actions for
Coastal Fishing By CAM Staff • Photo Courtesy of Matt Holder
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roomstick. That’s what I started out coastal fishing with nearly 20 years ago. I had done quite well bass fishing with heavy-action rods growing up fishing freshwater lakes and ponds. When I began fishing saltwater bays, I was quite fond of my medium-heavy and heavy action broomsticks. Of course I was using them to ‘horse’ 8to 11-pound bass out of heavy cover and matted vegetation. Those actions are fine to start with in saltwater bays, but fishing for speckled trout and redfish in most bays doesn’t require bringing out the heavy artillery. In fact, going lighter and allowing today’s more precisely built fishing tools to do their job at the upper end of their limits is much more effective in catching more and bigger speckled trout, and they do fine on most slot and oversized reds up to almost 42 inches. Lately I have seen quite a few inquiries on the saltwater inshore boards asking “is this rod ok, or can I use that rod action for trout?” I thought I’d cover some rod actions that handle the bays, flats and marshes a little more like Craig Biggio handled a baseball bat. That guy was awesome in the field, didn’t swing a big bat but produced big results with consistency. That is what we are after. For saltwater inshore fishing with a casting rod and reel for speckled trout and redfish, the most used rod and action would be something in the realm of a 6’6” medium-power rod with a fast tip. It should be rated to throw lures weighing from 1/8 to 5/8-ounce. I regularly throw lures up to ¾-ounce, such as Super Spooks or other
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large topwater plugs, on this specific rod rating. Line ratings will fall generally between 8- to 15-pound test. Each rod maker will have a little different variation on this, but they’ll be close to this range. This rod will cast a large variety of saltwater inshore lures ranging from soft plastics on 1/16-ounce lead or bismuth jig heads all the way to 3/4 or 1-ounce topwaters. Overall, it will function best and cast the longest with lure weights that fall within its rated specification. For example, one can certainly cast a ¾-ounce MirrOlure Paul Brown slow sinking FatBoy or Mirrodine XL on a rod that’s rated for 1/8 to 5/8-ounce, but I find that it may not cast as far since it’s slightly over-loading the blank. A fast-action tip will help mitigate some of the distance loss (and we’re just splitting hairs here) but it’s going to get the job done and allow you to fish with that one rod all day with just about any lure in the box. I recently switched over to Lew’s Inshore rod series with blanks that are specifically made for saltwater inshore anglers. I’m really liking them.
2/14/17 5:02 PM
B.A.S.S. Calls Anti-Lead Edict Anti-Fishing
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n the day before President Barack Obama left office, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) issued an edict to ban lead fishing tackle and ammunition from hundreds of thousands of acres of land and water managed by that agency. Executed without stakeholder input, the controversial action has sparked outrage from fishing and hunting communities. B.A.S.S. joined with state fisheries management agencies and the American Sportfishing Association (ASA) in calling on the new administration and FWS to put a hold on the order. “This 11th hour order, just hours before the new administration was to take office, was an obvious attempt to push through an order that is part of the previous administration’s environmental agenda without full consultation among all the stakeholders,” said B.A.S.S. Conservation Director Gene Gilliland. Scott Gudes, ASA’s vice president of government affairs, added, “The sportfishing industry views this unilateral policy to ban lead fishing tackle, which was developed without any input from the industry, other angling organizations and state fish and wildlife agencies, as a complete disregard for the economic and social impact it will have on anglers and the recreational fishing industry.” Signed by FWS Director Dan Ash, Order No. 219 requires “the use of nontoxic ammunition and fishing tackle to the fullest extent practicable for all activities on service lands, waters and facilities.” Fortunately, action was taken by the new Trump administration that could hinder its effectiveness. A memorandum issued from the White House to departments and agencies announced a freeze on implementing new regulations, pending review. Still, individual jurisdictions within FWS might choose to enforce the rule. For years, environmentalists have attempted to gain a complete ban on lead ammunition and fishing tackle by filing lawsuits. They’ve done so, Gilliland said, “despite the lack of a clear connection in many cases of negative population-level impacts on fish and wildlife.” Their arguments have been rejected by the courts. At the same time, selective bans have been
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implemented where research suggests a need for them, such as in some northern waters, where loons ingest lead shot. “In the limited instances where lead fishing tackle is demonstrated to harm local wildlife populations, the sportfishing industry supports actions to minimize or eliminate these impacts,” Gudes said. “However, unnecessary and sweeping bans such as this director’s order will do nothing to benefit wildlife populations and instead will penalize the nation’s 46 million anglers and hurt recreational fishing-dependent jobs.” If not rescinded, it also will damage the partnership between the federal agency and the states, according to Nick Wiley, president of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. “This action flies squarely in the face of a long and constructive tradition of states working in partnership with the service to effectively manage fish and wildlife resources,” he said. “The Association views this order as a breach of trust and deeply disappointing given that it was a complete surprise and there was no current dialogue or input from state fish and wildlife agencies prior to issuance. It does a disservice to hunters and anglers, the firearms and angling industries, and the many professionals on staff with the USFWS who desire a trusting and transparent relationship with their state partners.”
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Two State Bowfishing Records Fall
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wo new state record buffalo have been arrowed. One, a 57.7-pound bigmouth buffalo, was shot in Missouri by John Paul Morris, the son of Bass Pro founder Johnny Morris. The other, a 70.55-pound smallmouth buffalo, was shot by Alabama bowfisher Nicki Greene. Buffalo are the largest North American suckerfish. They are similar to carp and are popular with bowfishers because of their size and abundance within their native river systems. Bigmouth buffalo are filter feeders that strain zooplankton from the water. Smallmouth buffalo are bottom feeders that suck up algae and vegetation as well as small critters that live on the bottom. Their feeding habits make them difficult targets for traditional anglers, although they are said to put up a good fight when hooked. Greene was on a date with her boyfriend Adam Bearden when she arrowed her big buffalo. Their shared love of the sport is a big part of what brought them together. The fish has been officially recognized by the Bowfishing Association of America as the state record smallmouth buffalo. The official Alabama state record is pending the results of tissue samples, which will positively identify it as either a black buffalo or a smallmouth. Either way, it will be a state record. Morris shot his buffalo from a coal mine strip pit in Henry County Missouri. It had a length of 39 inches and a girth of 32.5 inches.
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Wilderness Trout
Fishing On The Jacks River, Ga. (An abbreviated excerpt from Flyfisher’s Guide To North Carolina & Georgia)
By Nick Carter
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hile hiking the more than 6 nearly vertical miles out of the valley, my buddy stopped, sat on a rock and unlaced his hiking boots. Without saying a thing, he slung his new boots off the ridge into a hollow. “I ain’t walking in them anymore!” he grumbled. I suppose he was better off hiking in his felt-soled wading boots. It wasn’t until we arrived back at the truck that he showed off the angry red sores on his feet. That’s also where he discovered the 20 pounds of nice flat river rocks I had secreted in his pack before the hike out. That’s what he got for bringing a day-pack to a three-night pack-in fishing trip. I had carried all the camping gear and food all weekend. I’m sure he would have brained me with one of those rocks if he hadn’t been so tired. This was the aftermath of a pretty spectacular fishing expedition. Three of us had spent three days exploring and fishing the Jacks River in north Georgia’s Cohutta Wilderness Area. We had all caught fish, plenty of them. We also witnessed something that would excite any fly angler. After a late supper, three of us were kicked back
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around a campfire that was slowly dying from lack of attention in the damp river bottom. Full bellies and a full day on the river lead to lethargy. Conversation fizzled. The rush of the river and the drone of familiar night sounds lulled everyone into a comfortable sleepiness. Eyes fixated on smoldering red embers amplified the darkness around. It was from the darkness they came. With a shout, one buddy shot upright, slapping at the back of his neck. Headlamps clicked on. Smack! It stung when one slammed full-speed into my right cheek. Within minutes, the campsite was abuzz with huge black stoneflies. There were dozens of them, 2 inches and longer, with orange accents and long creepy legs. After the initial excitement and a determination that the bugs could not carry us away without an organized group effort, everyone went directly to their fly boxes. The giant stoneflies were gone the next morning, but the fish were still looking for them. All three of us caught trout on big red and black stonefly nymphs with double beads until all the flies were lost or unraveled. It was the standard Jacks River mixed bag of rainbow and brown trout from 5 inches up to 12 inches. We have caught a few fish significantly larger than that from the Jacks, but none of the huge browns the river is rumored to contain. It is well over 15 river miles between vehicle access points to the Jacks River on Cohutta WMA. It’s about as deep into the wilderness as one can get in the Southeast. Flyfisher’s Guide To North Carolina & Georgia is 218 pages of extensively researched information on the area’s best trout fishing. It includes more than 40 full-color maps, photos, driving directions, GPS coordinates and tips and tactics. It is available on wildadvpress.com, Amazon and at fly shops, and signed copies are available by contacting the author at nsc8957@gmail.com. For more trout fishing in Georgia, go to
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by blending into the reef, and some just want SHERI DAYE to look cool. Ladies, if you’re looking for he popularity of spearfishing in the “skins” for the summer U.S. has grown significantly, and it in attractive patterns, has spawned product innovation and improvements—not only with spearguns, check out Slipins. You might not blend into but with associated dive apparel. Believe it the reef, but you will look amazing! 2) Gloves: There are more sizes, or not, how you dress can play an important thicknesses and features now. I’ve been part of the hunt. Here are some examples: 1) Wetsuits: It’s important for a hunter to diving in water so cold that I lost feeling be comfortable in the water. If you are cold in my hands and couldn’t feel the trigger. and shivering, if your suit is rubbing the I should have sprung for a thicker pair of back of your legs, if it feels too tight in the gloves when I traveled to California. With the popularity of polespearing, chest—you will not perform as effectively. In this regard, new wetsuits with open-cell there’s a need for gloves that make it easy to technology and newer materials have been hold a loaded polespear, so the grip is made a godsend. They are softer, stretchier and of nitrile or latex while the rest of the gloves thinner, yet they keep you warmer than the (back of hand and wrists) are a dynema/ old materials. A good wetsuit should feel Kevlar composition. The all-Kevlar gloves like a second skin and should not let water are useful for handling fish or lobsters. It’s in anywhere. The following brands are not uncommon to get cut by gill rakers when available at your local dive shop: Yazbeck, dispatching bigger fish. Wearing solid gloves will give you confidence when handling fish. Mares, Riffe, Omer, Cressi and more. Most spearfishing wetsuit brands now Check out Neritic and Akona, among others. 3) Booties: With the advent of long fins have both a men’s and women’s cut, resulting in a better fit. The new stretchy materials for spearfishing, it’s become more important are forgiving enough to fit most bodies. for the fin-pocket/bootie combination to Still not happy with the fit? No worries; form a good fit. An ill-fitting fin will greatly there are several affordable custom wetsuit reduce efficiency in the water. As with gloves, manufacturers who will tailor one to your there’s a greater variety of choices, and it’s important to try them on with the foot measurements. Try Oceanos or Elios. Another recent development is the pocket you plan to wear. Next time you go spearfishing, make wide variety of camouflage patterns. Some hunters believe it allows them to be stealthier sure you are dressed for success!
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TIPS FROM A PRO
FRESHWATER THE THINGS WE WEAR
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BRANDON LESTER
utdoor apparel isn’t as much fun to talk about as how to catch big bass, but it’s important for those of us who spend a lot of time on a boat. I’m not sponsored by any clothing companies or anything like that, but I do know what I like. Let’s start with hoodies. You just can’t beat a quality hoodie for chilly mornings and running down the lake. Most of my sponsors have sent me a hoodie or two, but I have to say my all-time favorite one is from Raymarine. There’s something about the texture of the hoodie. It’s manufactured by
cover up from the sun as well. They keep me cool and really make a difference in how much energy I have after a long day on the water. I also like MHX’s lightweight hat as well as a trucker hat I have from Phoenix Boats. A rain suit is key for me too. Mud Hole was nice enough to send me one from Gill that really works well. They make good stuff. Raymarine sent one made by Stormr, and it is my favorite for cold weather. Mercury provided me one from Simms that is really nice, and it has held
Sport-Tek and is just extremely comfortable. It looks good too. For those cold mornings, I really like to have on a beanie, too. I have accumulated several from Mercury, and I really like theirs. Mercury’s are good quality and don’t shrink. I’ve had others that got loose and feel like they were going to fly off. Everything has to be tight when running at 70-plus mph. Buff USA makes good beanies, as well, and several other cold weather products I like. Most of us think of Buff for sun protection, but they perform in the cold too. Speaking of sun protection, I will indeed have a UV Buff around my neck 95 percent of the time. I also wear their gloves, and honestly it feels a little strange to not fish with gloves on anymore. As younger anglers, we’ve heard stories and seen pictures of sun-damaged skin. Most of us heed the warnings. I wear MHX sun shirts to
up very well. You can never have too many rain suits. You never know when you’ll need a backup for either yourself or someone fishing with you. To complete the look and feel, I like to wear lightweight, comfortable fishing shorts from Mercury. You see a ton of anglers wearing the Mercury shorts, so it was obviously a brilliant marketing move for them to send them to us. It just feels like “game day” when I have them on. Did I mention all this stuff is wrinkle free. Even our jerseys are wrinkle-free. I usually stay in hotels, and I’m thankful to be able to pull my gear out of the suitcase or out of a boat compartment and have it look good. Valley Fashions does a good job with our jerseys. That’s enough about clothing. Next month we will get back to fishing. If you ever have any topics you would like me to cover, hit me up on Facebook or Instagram.
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FISH & FISHING
PRIORITIES
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MARK SOSIN
nglers tend to reverse priorities. Instead of focusing on fishing an artificial effectively, they worry more about choosing some magical fly or lure guaranteed to produce a spectacular catch simply by being in the water. Success seldom happens that way. If you have confidence in your choice and believe it will work, it probably will, provided your presentation and retrieve are effective. The best bait in the box will bomb unless it looks realistic and natural to your quarry. Fishing an artificial is a mental game. It’s easy to be distracted and simply cast and retrieve without any purpose or thought behind each presentation. Every cast should be made to correctly cover a specific segment of water and effectively put an offering in front of a fish. Simple things can make a difference. Here are a couple of examples. I watched an angler cast a swimming plug with a lip into the shallows, crank the reel handle four to six times so the plug dove downward along the dropoff, pause for a moment until the plug began to rise, and then continue the retrieve. If you stood next to him and simply retrieved the plug without pausing so it could rise, you couldn’t buy a strike. Another time, a friend who had been a guide was fishing with me. He kept getting strikes on his lure, while I became more frustrated with every cast, and we were using the same artificial. I watched his every move and tried to duplicate it to no avail. Finally, I asked him what he was doing that was different than my retrieve. As he worked his lure, he kept vibrating his hand. It was too subtle to see. Vibrating his wrist caused his lure to flash underwater just like a real baitfish. That made all the difference. Finding a school of breaking fish on the surface stirs the soul and telegraphs the imminent success to every fiber in your body. The key is to keep the boat away from the school while moving up ahead of it. Casts should be made in front of the school when possible or
at least close to it so that the retrieve follows the basic path of the school. Assuming the school is moving north, you want your retrieve to cover the northeast or northwest quadrant. It should move in the general direction of the main body of fish. Not very often will a school member chase a lure going in a direction opposite that of the main body of fish. Retrieving an artificial must make it appear to the fish that it is trying to escape. If the predator senses that the lure is moving toward it, you can bet it will spook. Every cast should be carefully calculated to make the lure look realistic. If a fish fails to strike, vary the retrieve. And, in cooler water, don’t overlook a slower retrieve. Those anglers who set the standards fishing artificial baits make every cast count. Follow their lead and you should begin to catch more and more fish on artificial lures.
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TACKLE CORNER:
GETTING A FRESH HANDLE ON SPINNING RODS By Mike Pehanich
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he topic of spinning tackle can be a lightning rod among fishermen. Opinions on it vary greatly across the angling spectrum. Some rely on spinning tackle and, literally, can’t fish without it. Some hate it and can hardly broach discussion of this “down-side” style of fishing without a snide aside (“a birdsnest waiting to happen”) or epithet challenging the user’s manhood (“fairy wand”). In recent years, effective finesse techniques in the bass world have taken the fire out of the debate, and a sober “it’sjust-a-tool” mentality has cleared a place for spinning in the arsenals of most serious anglers. Design Disadvantage Outside the realm of partisan debate, however, spinning tackle has remained open to at least one legitimate complaint. The design of most spinning rods compels the fishermen to grip the rod across the reel seat and straddle the reel stem, leaving the angler’s hand little or no grip security and comfort. The design leads to particular disadvantage when fighting big fish or fishing in adverse weather conditions, from snowstorms and freezing cold to tropical humidity and lightning bolts. Fortunately, solutions have come to the fore. Here are three options to answer the spinning rod conundrum. Hooded Reel Seat With Polymer Grip: Hooded reel seats,
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such as those in Fuji’s VSS series, are designed for a grip shaped to extend over the reel seat. The design provides palm support—grip comfort and security at the palm interface—even with fingers straddling the spinning reel stem. Fuji, through its exclusive American distributor Anglers Resource, introduced a proprietary set of Winn grips (WVSS1615, WVS17), tailored to fit precisely with two of its newest and most popular spinning reel seats and its Perfect Fit Trim. This combination of grip and reel seat adds ergonomic benefit and puts more of the hand into contact with the non-slip Winn grip polymer. Aero Comfort Finish Reel Seat: American Tackle offers a spinning reel seat with a topside extension that delivers palm support. Like hooded reel seats, the design provides ergonomic benefit by supporting the palm, but it is a hood-like portion of the reel seat rather than grip material that reaches up to meet the palm. The “comfort finish” reduces the degree of hand slippage. Mummy wrap: West Coast saltwater anglers were the first to overwrap spinning rod handles with Winn Superior Rod Wrap, a “skin” of patented Winn polymer, known for its tackiness in adverse weather conditions. The tape-like material is backed with a forgiving adhesive that wraps easily around rod handles. The “mummy wrap” approach adds a continuous wrap from rod butt to foregrip with the reel already in place. The mummy wrap straddles the reel stem over both ends of the reel foot. Palm and fingers have complete contact with the non-slip polymer covering the entire handle. Check out the spinning rods in your arsenal, and see if one of these solutions can add comfort and effectiveness to your fishing. Rod wraps are simple solutions. Check with a custom rod builder or rod repairmen about retrofitting spinning rods with a new grip or reel seat.
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EAGLE ROD HOLDERS • Ideal for Kite Fishing • Custom Fitted White PVC Liners • Bright Dipped Anodized Aluminum
THE PENTA FIVE 8-1/2” Tapered & Flared Rod Holders
• Excellent for Grouping Rods in Tight Spaces • Designed to fit all standard - Gunnel Mount Rod Holders - Tower Mount Rod Holders - Leaning Post Rod Holders
• Plier Holder • 2 Drink Holders • 6 Hook Holders • 2 Recessed Tray • Stainless Steel Hardware • Marine Grade, UV Stable HDPE Material
1.888.661.6692 Eagle-Marine-Products.com
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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PALM CITY Y 872 N. Federal Hwy., Lantana, FL 33462 www.pcylantana.com (772) 220–3000
TWIN 300 HP
300 HP WHITE Fly By Wire
BLACK or WHITE Fly By Wire
TWIN 250 HP BLACK Fly By Wire
w
250 HP
2
BLACK Fly By Wire
W
GUARANTEED 5.99% LOWEST PRICE! AS LOW AS *
*5.99% Financing W.A.C. - All Prices are plus applicable sales tax. Limited quantities at these prices. Installation includes Suzuki Rig Kit, SS prop & labor. **On Select Models
175 HP
175 HP
BLACK Fly By Wire
32
NATIONAL
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WHITE
MARCH 2017
TWIN 150 HP BLACK Fly By Wire
150 HP
1
BLACK or WHITE Fly By Wire
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
2/14/17 1:46 PM
Y YACHTS
612 SW Federal Hwy., Stuart, FL 34994 www.palmcityyachts.com (772) 220-3000
225 HP
WHITE or BLACK
TWIN 200 HP
TWIN 175 HP
200 HP WHITE
WHITE
UP TO
WHITE
**
Call Today
For Details & availability
150 HP WHITE
140 HP WHITE
115 HP WHITE
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
NAT_0317.indd 33
90 HP WHITE
MARCH 2017
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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
2/14/17 1:46 PM
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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MARCH 2017
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UNDER $300...The Doctor’s Choice For ADVANCED HEARING AID TECHNOLOGY How can a hearing aid that costs less than $300 be every bit as good as one that sells
The MDHearingAid PRO® has been rigorously tested by leading ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) physicians and audiologists who have unanimously agreed that the sound quality and output in many cases exceeds more expensive hearing aids.
for $3,000 or more? Tremendous strides have been made in Advanced Hearing Aid Technology and those cost reductions have not passed on to you--Until Now.
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The fact is, you don’t need to pay high prices for a medical-grade FDA If you are not completely satisfied, simply return it within that registered hearing aid. Battery Compartment time period for a MDHearingAid PRO® is a high 100% refund of your performance hearing aid that works right purchase price. Outperforms Many Higher Priced Hearing Aids! out of the box with no time-consuming “adjustment” appointments. You can Since Medicare and most private insurance do conveniently access a hearing specialist not cover hearing aids, ENT surgeon Dr. Cherukuri online or by phone---even after the sale. designed a game-changing solution without GetMDHearingAid.com No other company provides such sacrificing the quality of components that you extensive support. can actually afford. Use Code: ® Over 75,000 satisfied customers agree. The result is the - MDHearingAid PRO For a Year Supply of Now that you know, why pay more? $ Power & Channel Switch
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FREE SHIPPING Code: CA13 | 1-800-922-5013 WATCH THE DEMO at PoliGlowProducts.com 36
NATIONAL
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“I have had this aid two days and all I can say is WOW!” --Terrsa H., Grove, NJ
BE ONE WITH THE FISH An Aqua-Vu HD underwater camera is the quickest way to find big bass. Unlike pixels and mysterious sonar signals, an Aqua-Vu reveals a live, crystal clear image of the underwater world. See largemouths buried in vegetation and brush, smallmouths hidden beside boulders, suspended spots and everything else beneath your boat.
DISCOVER THE TRUE UNDERWATER WORLD, IN REAL TIME AND FULL COLOR HD. > XD Camera with ultraclear 720p resolution > Waterproof & Sunlight Viewable 7-inch LCD > Anti-Spook IR Underwater Lights > 100-feet HD Cable, Charger & Custom Storage Bag www.aquavu.com
UNDERWATER VIEWING SYSTEMS
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
2/14/17 1:46 PM
Nothing gets you closer to the fish than your small craft. And nothing anchors you better than a Power-Pole Micro anchor made just for your vessel. Add the Micro Battery Pak and you’re ready to go wherever adventure takes you.
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
NAT_0317.indd 37
MARCH 2017
NATIONAL
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RHODAN INTRODUCES 72� SHAFT GPS GUIDED TROLLING MOTOR
New Longer Shaft for High Bow Boats Excellent for Offshore Fishing Same Superior GPS Technology
Feds Close Atlantic
Cobia Harvest Megan Willard with a stud cobia caught offshore of Hilton Head Island, S.C.
R
ecreational anglers are again feeling the sting of federal regulations. NOAA Fisheries announced in late January that cobia harvest in federal waters of the Atlantic from Georgia through New York will be closed for the remainder of 2017. As recreational anglers continue to scream of arbitrary data being used to set catch limits and estimate annual landings, NOAA says the recreational landings of Atlantic migratory group cobia exceeded 1.3 million pounds, more than double the annual allowable catch for 2016. These numbers came despite a closure in federal waters for nearly half of 2016, which was spurred when catch data from 2015 indicated an even larger recreational catch of 1.55 million pounds. Federal waters begin outside of three miles in the Atlantic, and a large majority of the recreational cobia catch occurs within state waters when these brown bombers migrate to shore and northward in the warming waters of spring and summer. NOAA has predicted the annual catch limit will again be exceeded in 2017, as state marine fisheries managers refuse to fall into line with strict federal regulations. NOAA has said the federal closure will be reevaluated if state regulations change in 2017. This federal closure does not apply to cobia on the Atlantic coast of Florida, which are part of the Gulf of Mexico migratory group. It also does not change regulations for commercial anglers, who will still be allowed two cobia per day.
4X More Accurate 36% More Efficient Outstanding Customer Support
PWC Fishing Towers
www.gpsanchor.com 38
NATIONAL
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MARCH 2017
888-434-7726
Enclosures
Rod Holders
Casting Platform
E-Box
Accessory Mounts
Lights
Storage Bag
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
2/14/17 1:46 PM
SAVE 64%
SUPER COUPON
7 FT. 4" x 9 FT. 6" ALL PURPOSE WEATHER RESISTANT TARP
ITEM 69249/69115/69137 69129/69121/877 shown
SUPER COUPON
$2
99
4
comp at $8.48 $ 99
LIMIT 6 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
SAVE 68%
1500 WATT DUAL TEMPERATURE HEAT GUN (572°/1112°) SUPER COUPON
ITEM 62340/62546 63104/96289 shown Customer Rating
$
$899
12
SUPER COUPON
20% OFF
# 1 SELLING
RAPID PUMP® 1.5 TON ALUMINUM RACING JACK
Customer Rating
ITEM 69252/68053 62160/62496/62516 60569 shown
• 3-1/2 Pumps Lifts Most Vehicles • Weighs 34 lbs.
SAVE $70
SUPER COUPON
ANY SINGLE ITEM
$5 999 79
Limit 1 coupon per customer per day. Save 20% on any 1 item purchased. *Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or any of the following items or brands: Inside Track Club membership, Extended Service Plan, gift card, open box item, 3 day Parking Lot Sale item, compressors, floor jacks, saw mills, storage cabinets, chests or carts, trailers, trenchers, welders, Admiral, Bauer, CoverPro, Daytona, Earthquake, Hercules, Jupiter, Lynxx, Poulan, Predator, StormCat, Tailgator, Viking, Vulcan. Not valid on prior purchases. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17.
$
comp at
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
60", 4 DRAWER HARDWOOD WORKBENCH Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
ITEM 93454/69054 63395/62603 shown
SAVE $265
12 VOLT, 10/2/50 AMP BATTERY CHARGER/ ENGINE STARTER
Tools sold separately.
Customer Rating
$12999 $15999 $395
comp at 99 $198.45
3-IN-1 PORTABLE POWER PACK WITH JUMP STARTER
comp at
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SAVE 36%
ITEM 38391/62376/62306 shown
SAVE 38% $
SAE
SUPER COUPON
$699 9
METRIC
YOUR CHOICE
$5
99
8
$ 99
SAVE SUPER COUPON 66%
$1499 $1799
comp at
$14.97
LIMIT 7 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
NATIONAL
Customer Rating
MARCH 2017
comp at
8 Functions: Sanding, Remove Grout, Cut Metal, Cut Flooring, Cut Plastic, Plunge Cut, Scrape Concrete, Scrape Flooring
$44.99
SAVE 83% $
comp at
SAVE $83
SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating
$
$1 1999
14999
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
ITEM 61196 62392/69597 38846 shown
SAVE 48%
SUPER COUPON $
$17
99
2199
comp at
$34.99
LIMIT 6 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior
presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
1500 LB. CAPACITY DUAL WHEEL SWING-BACK BOAT SAVE 37% TRAILER JACK
Customer Rating
SA 85
comp at
$203.73
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
Customer Rating
ITEM 6922 6922
ITEM 62443 68751 shown
LIMIT 6 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
3 TON HEAVY DUTY STEEL JACK STANDS
LIMIT 800-423 purchas Offer g present
SUPER COUPON
45 WATT SOLAR PANEL 10 PIECE KIT
$999
1999 $59.98
$98.62
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior
NAT_0317.indd 40
5999 comp at
29 PIECE TITANIUM NITRIDE COATED ITEM 62281/61637 shown HIGH SPEED STEEL DRILL BIT SET
purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be
hft_coastalangler_0317_spread_M-REG100630.indd 2-3
$
comp at
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON ITEM 62279/62302/62866 68861 shown
MULTIFUNCTION POWER TOOL
$3999
99
Customer Rating
$10.99
LIMIT 7 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
ITEM 69043/63282/42304 shown ITEM 42305/69044/63171
SAVE 59%
YOUR CHOICE
49 $2999 $69.99 $
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
$ 99 comp at
comp at
9 PIECE FULLY POLISHED SAVE 59% COMBINATION WRENCH SETS
40
ITEM 61740/63109 63152/4077 shown
5999 $64.99 SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating
12 VOLT, 250 PSI PORTABLE INFLATOR
99
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SAVE 57%
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
$39
B. PANCAKE
B SUPER COUPON
Cu
ITEM 95275 shown 60637/61615
Customer Rating
$5999
SUPER COUPON
A. HOT DOG
ITEM 69269/97080 shown
A
69265/62344
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
3 GALLON, 100 PSI OILLESS AIR COMPRESSORS
ITEM 60581/60653 shown
SUPER COUPON
79
SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating
SAVE RETRACTABLE AIR HOSE REEL $138 WITH 3/8" x 50 FT. HOSE ITEM 93897 shown
$
S
99
$129.99
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
comp at 99 $28.83
LIMIT 6 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
JACKS IN AMERICA
LIMIT 800-423 purchase Offer g presente
SAV 65
ITEM 69779 67500 shown
$2999 99 7 $2 $44.99
SUPER COUPON
LIMIT 800-423 purchas Offer g presente
comp at
LIMIT 3 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
2/14/17 1:46 PM
75
OG
own
WITH
ITEM 63599/69052 shown 69111/62522/62573
SUPER COUPON
$
14999
comp at
$9999
$205.99
Customer Rating
12" SLIDING COMPOUND DOUBLE-BEVEL MITER SAW Customer Rating WITH LASER GUIDE
2000 WATT CONTINUOUS/ 4000 WATT PEAK POWER INVERTER
Customer Rating
ITEM 60432 69662 shown
ITEM 63091/63248 68998 shown
SUPER COUPON
$2999 SAVE $ $76
900 PEAK/700 RUNNING WATTS, 2 HP (63CC) 2 CYCLE GAS GENERATOR EPA/CARB
19999
$339
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SAVE $95
SUPER COUPON
$11999 $16999 $215.41 comp at
LIMIT 3 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
ITEM 46807/68975 69221/62123/63017 BAR 69222 shown
12" RATCHET CLAMP/SPREADER
WIRELESS SECURITY ALERT SYSTEM
3
t
$
$299
comp at
ITEM 93068 shown 69590/61910/62447 Customer Rating
SAVE 68%
SUPER COUPON
$ 99
1499 SUPER COUPON 99 comp at
$20.76
$31.46
LIMIT 6 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
SAVE $60
MAGNETIC TRAILER ALIGNMENT KIT Customer Rating
9
$ 99
comp at
$19.99
ITEM 69778
SUPER COUPON
$6
$
LIMIT 8 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
NAT_0317.indd 41
•
• No Gas Required
120 AMP FLUX WIRE WELDER
ITEM 61849/62719 Customer Rating 68887 shown
SUPER COUPON
99
750+ Stores Nationwide
$9
LIMIT 9 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
SAVE 65%
comp at
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
ITEM 63024 63025 shown
SUPER COUPON
$8999 $10999
99
comp at 99 $149.99
$8999
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SAVE NOW
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
3
SAVE 85%
3799 $106.34
SUPER COUPON
18 VOLT CORDLESS 3/8" DRILL/DRIVER WITH KEYLESS CHUCK SUPER COUPON
comp at
wn
ing rior ipt. be day.
SUPER COUPON
130 PIECE TOOL KIT WITH CASE
ITEM 69651 62868/62873 68239 shown
$13499
$
comp at
9
$ 99 $19.97
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
Blade sold separately.
• 1000 lb. capacity
LIMIT 1 - Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or prior purchase. Coupon good at our stores, HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Offer good while supplies last. Shipping & Handling charges may apply if not picked up in-store. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one FREE GIFT coupon per customer per day.
SAVE $204
ON
ON
$7
99
VALUE
SUPER COUPON
ITEM 61969/61970 69684 shown
62
ing rior ipt. be day.
SAVE $106
SAVE 59%
SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating
E
3
ITEM 60497/93888 shown 61899/62399/63095/63096 63098/63097
4
SUPER COUPON
E %
N
MOVER'S DOLLY
Customer Rating
$ 97
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
15
9
ANY PURCHASE
SUPER COUPON
3-1/2" SUPER BRIGHT NINE LED ALUMINUM FLASHLIGHT
KE
L T
10 FT. x 20 FT. PORTABLE CAR CANOPY
ITEM 63054/60728/69034/62858 shown
own
alling prior ceipt. be day.
FREE
SUPER COUPON ™
inal day.
SS RS
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
80 PIECE ROTARY TOOL KIT ITEM 97626 shown 68986/69451 63235/63292
$1699
Customer Rating
Includes one 18V NiCd battery and charger.
SAVE $ 65%
1999 $49 comp at
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
ITEM 69924 shown 62403/62862 Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
6" VARIABLE SPEED DUAL ACTION POLISHER SAVE $95
SUPER COUPON comp at SAVE $ 99 71% $24.15
9
$
LIMIT 7 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
PORTABLE FISH FINDER ITEM 62675/94511 SAVE Customer Rating 46%
$
SUPER COUPON
$699
MULTI-USE TRANSFER PUMP
ITEM 62961/63144/61364 63591/66418 shown
SAVE 59%
$65
At Harbor Freight Tools, the “comp at” price means that the same item or a similar functioning item was advertised for sale at or above the "comp at" price by another retailer in the U.S. within the past 180 days. Prices advertised by others may vary by location. No other meaning of "comp at" should be implied. For more information, go to HarborFreight.com or see store associate.
HarborFreight.com • 800-423-2567 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
$149.99
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
LIMIT 3 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
comp at
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
3999 $3499
comp at
6999
$5499
Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
6
$499
$ 99 comp at $12.39
LIMIT 7 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior from original purchase with original receipt. last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
purchases after2017 30 days MARCH Offer good while supplies
NATIONAL
41
2/14/17 1:46 PM 2/13/17 10:14 AM
THIS YEAR, MAKE THE MOST OF EVERY DAY ON THE WATER
OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE MATCHED BY EXCEPTIONAL VALUE TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THESE SPECIAL BOAT SHOW OFFERS FROM SUZUKI MARINE
REPOWER FINANCE
Six Years of Protection at no extra charge on all new outboards 25 to 300 HP.
Cash Rebates on select models. See your dealer for details.
Rates as low as 5.99% on new outboards (OAC).*
Offers end March 31, 2017. See your participating Suzuki Marine dealer for details or visit www.suzukimarine.com.
42
Gimme Six Extended Protection promo is applicable to new Suzuki Outboard Motors from 25 to 300 HP in inventory which are sold and delivered to buyer between 01/01/17 and 3/31/17 in accordance with the promotion by a Participating Authorized Suzuki Marine dealer in the continental US and Alaska to a purchasing customer who resides in the continental US or Alaska. Customer should expect to receive an acknowledgement letter and full copy of contract including terms, conditions and wallet card from Suzuki Extended Protection within 90 days of purchase. If an acknowledgement letter is not received in time period stated, contact Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. – Marine Marketing via email: marinepromo@suz.com. The Gimme Six Promotion is available for pleasure use only, and is not redeemable for cash. Cash Rebates apply to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki Outboard Motors made between 01/01/17 and 3/31/17. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine.com. Customer and participating Dealer must fill out the appropriate rebate form at time of sale. Customer will have the choice to either apply the cash rebate against the original dealer invoice (Suzuki will credit Dealer parts account) or have a check sent directly to the customer. There are no model substitutions, benefit substitutions, rain checks, or extensions. Suzuki reserves the right to change or cancel these promotions at any time without notice or obligation. * Financing offers available through Synchrony Retail Finance. As low as 5.99% APR financing for 60 months on new and unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors. Subject to credit approval. Not all buyers will qualify. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. $19.99/month per $1,000 financed for 60 months is based on 5.99% APR. Hypothetical figures used in calculation; your actual monthly payment may differ based on financing terms, credit tier qualification, accessories or other factors such as down payment and fees. Offer effective on new, unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors purchased from a participating authorized Suzuki dealer between 01/01/17 and 3/31/17.“Gimme Six”, the Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2017 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.
NATIONAL
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MARCH 2017
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
2/14/17 1:46 PM
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2/13/17 11:38 AM
WHATEVER THE SEA THROWS AT YOU, STAND YOUR GROUND. BUILT FOR ALASKA, FIT FOR EVERYONE XTRATUF boots have been proven and tested in the unforgiving Alaskan seas. Now, that same toughness is available in the XTRATUF Performance Deck Boot. With a non-marking, slip-resistant Chevron outsole, these 100% waterproof boots are as tough as the elements.
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INTRODUCING THE NEW KRYPTEK ANKLE DECK BOOT
2/13/17 11:38 AM