The Angler Magazine - February / Columbia-Midlands by Coastal Angler Magazine

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COLUMBIA/MIDLANDS EDITION

Tactics

For

Cold Front Bass

Rods &

Reels Reviews

Wintertime

Trout Skeeter Celebrates

Anniversary PHOTO COURTESY OF FISHERGUIDING.COM VOLUME 23 â&#x20AC;¢ ISSUE 276

F R A N C H I S E

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W O R L D W I D E

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FAMILY LEGENDS

and fish tales

BUILT FOR THAT

210 FSH ® SERIES

Go where no other boat has gone before. With powerful twin TR-1® Yamaha Marine Engines, ample storage and comfortable bow seating, the all-new 210 FSH provides the shallow-water capability to get to those hard-to-reach fishing spots and the versatility to enjoy watersports with your family.

210 FSH®

210 FSH® Deluxe

210 FSH® Sport

YA M A H A B OAT S . C O M

©2018 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. Follow instructional materials and obey all laws. Drive responsibly, wearing protective apparel. Always drive within your capabilities, allowing time and distance for maneuvers, and respect others around you. Don’t drink and drive. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT YAMAHABOATS.COM OR CALL 1.800.88.YAMAHA.

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2018 242CC

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THE NEXT GREAT THE NEXT GREAT

HAVALON HAVALON INNOVATION INNOVATION HAS LANDED. HAS LANDED.

QUIK-CHANGE II ™ Interchangeable Fixed Blade™ QUIK-CHANGE Cutlery System II Interchangeable Fixed Blade Cutlery System9” FILLET 7” FILLET 9” FILLET 5” FILLET 7” FILLET 3” SERRATED 5” FILLET 3” SERRATED

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COMING SPRING 2018 COMING SPRING 2018 4

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Rugged Canvas Roll Pack Rugged Canvas Roll Pack

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BLEED TRIM

SAFETY

EDITOR IN CHIEF : Ben Martin • camads@coastalanglermagazine.com VICE PRESIDENT : Tracy Patterson • tracy@coastalanglermagazine.com ART DIRECTOR : Rebecca Snowden • graphics@coastalanglermagazine.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR : Nick Carter • editorial@coastalanglermagazine.com WEBMASTER : Dmitriy Pislyagin • webmaster@coastalanglermagazine.com ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: Corporate Headquarters info@coastalanglermagazine.com • 888-800-9794

FLORIDA

BIG BEND : Mike McNamara • (850) 510-7919 • captmike@coastalanglermagazine.com BREVARD : David String • (321) 684-5888 • dstring@coastalanglermagazine.com DAYTONA/NEW SMYRNA BEACH : Don Meadows • (321) 436-5895 • donm@coastalanglermagazine.com FLORIDA KEYS : Cliff Lumpkin • (305) 849-9093 • cliff@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT LAUDERDALE : Gene Dyer • (954) 680-3900 • gene@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT MYERS : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER ORLANDO : Phillip & Giselle Wolf • (407) 790-9515 • phillip@coastalanglermagazine.com LAKELAND & SUMTER : Mary Brasher • (352) 598-4219 • maryf@coastalanglermagazine.com NAPLES : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com NC FLORIDA/NATURE COAST : Cary & Lynn Crutchfield • (352) 372-4237 • crutch@coastalanglermagazine.com NE FLORIDA : Danny Patrick • (904) 742-4696 • danny@coastalanglermagazine.com PANAMA CITY/FORGOTTEN COAST : Randy Cnota • (229) 834-7880 • randyc@coastalanglermagazine.com PALM BEACH COUNTY : Barbara Ryan • (561) 373-8040 • barbara@coastalanglermagazine.com SARASOTA : Phil Prevoir • (239) 257-4684 • pprevoir@coastalanglermagazine.com TAMPA BAY : Chuck Atkins • (239) 464-5153 • chuck@coastalanglermagazine.com TREASURE COAST : Misti & Gary Guertin • (772) 285-6850 • treasurecoast@coastalanglermagazine.com

flahama@coastalanglermagazine.com

SOUTHEAST

ATLANTA : Bob & Brenda Rice • (706) 614-8231 • bobr@theanglermagazine.com CHARLESTON : Jane A. Redden • (205) 725-9616 • jane@coastalanglermagazine.com

Sam Buckareff • (843) 607-8629 • sam@coastalanglermagazine.com

CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT : Mark & Haley Alberghini • (704) 651-1934 • mark@theanglermagazine.com

COME JOIN OUR TEAM Dear Reader, “Coastal Angler” and our freshwater component “The Angler” magazines are looking to expand our franchise footprint to include numerous Gulf Coast region markets. Having become the largest outdoor publication on the Eastern Seaboard, we’re now ready to continue our expansion westerly all the way to California and northerly to the Great Lakes and beyond. Our franchise system enables localized editions of the magazine to be managed and developed by our franchisee/co-publishers. Publishing your localized edition of either Coastal Angler Magazine or The Angler Magazine can be exceptionally enriching and financially rewarding. Our ideal candidate may never have been involved in publishing before. They would, however, be passionately involved in the outdoors. Obsessive anglers often make great fishing magazine franchisees.

COLUMBIA/MIDLANDS : John Lux • (803) 807-6885 • jlux@theanglermagazine.com MYRTLE BEACH : Mike Masiero • (732) 674-3019 • mmasiero@coastalanglermagazine.com SW GEORGIA : Bob & Brenda Rice • (706) 614-8231 • bobr@theanglermagazine.com TIDEWATER/OUTER BANKS : John Tiger • (757) 707-9654 • john.tiger@coastalanglermagazine.com

Laura Tiger • (757) 707-9655 • laura@coastalanglermagazine.com

WESTERN NC : Debra & Joe Woody • (828) 775-9663 • woody@theanglermagazine.com WILMINGTON/MOREHEAD : Kenny Ritter • (910) 550-9094 • kenny@coastalanglermagazine.com

NORTHEAST BOSTON : George Regan • (617) 488-2842 • boston@coastalanglermagazine.com LONG ISLAND : Lisa & Michael Danforth • (203) 321-7635 • lisad@coastalanglermagazine.com CONNECTICUT/RHODE ISLAND : Lisa & Michael Danforth • (203) 321-7635 lisad@coastalanglermagazine.com

Your new career is just a phone call or email away.

GULF COAST MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST : Adam Nelson • (228) 627-5903 • anelson@coastalanglermagazine.com

This is a chance to own your own business but not be all on your own. Our training and support systems enable our co-publishers to quickly establish their localized edition of the magazine into a viable local business. If you think you would enjoy a career centered around the outdoors and fishing, you owe it to yourself to check out our franchise opportunities. Our expansion goals have numerous territories now available.

Toby Nelson • (228) 623-1761 • tnelson@coastalanglermagazine.com

Best regards,

NEW ORLEANS : Dr. Dave Dunaway • (225) 400-8156 • nola@coastalanglermagazine.com

GREAT LAKES WEST MICHIGAN : Phil Belsito • (616) 957-1714 • phil@theanglermagazine.com

INTERNATIONAL PUERTO RICO/VIRGIN ISLANDS : Ace Bassue • (407) 285-9453 • ace@coastalanglermagazine.com COSTA RICA : Mike Erickson • (561) 262-2242 • mike@coastalanglermagazine.com © 2018. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. Disclaimer: Coastal Angler Magazine / The Angler Magazine will not be held liable for injuries incurred while partaking in activities described herein, or for claims made against products or services provided by advertisers. SAFETY

Ben Martin Editor in Chief info@coastalanglermagazine.com

1-888-800-9794

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FEBRUARY 2018

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By CAM Staff

ast and stable, with a needle nose that reminded people of a mosquito buzzing over southern waters, the world’s first bass boat was the 1948 brainchild of Shreveport, Louisiana’s Holmes Thurmond. That first Skeeter boat, made of molded marine plywood, caught on quickly with local anglers. It launched the brand

that today, 70 years later, is still renowned for building innovative boats designed specifically for the needs of recreational anglers. Cary Crutchfield, co-publisher of Coastal Angler Magazine’s North Central Florida edition, owns one of those early Skeeter boats. When he bought his first Skeeter in the 1960s, the company was already leading the way in what became an industry-wide transition to fiberglass. His was a 15-foot model with stick steering up front that was powered by a 35hp outboard. “It’s real easy to fish from, and it’s just a neat 6

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looking boat,” Crutchfield said of those early flat-bottomed Skeeters. “It’s narrow, and the way the sides turn up to the cockpit makes it very stable to move around in.” With today’s bass boats, a 250hp Yamaha seems like a necessity to even compete on the tournament circuits. Back then, a Skeeter with a 35hp was capable of reaching speeds in excess of 30 mph. It was a fishing boat superior to any that came before it. The Super Skeeter arose as the boat for serious anglers fishing the large, newly constructed man-made reservoirs that have since fueled the sport. Crutchfield sold his 15-footer in the 1980s and almost immediately began kicking himself. He missed the narrow profile and shallow draft, along with kind of stability that allows him to stand comfortably and pole into very tight places. It wasn’t long before he ran into another old Skeeter he had to have, this one a 14-footer, originally powered by a 25hp outboard that has since been replaced by a 1950s model 12hp. Even with that old motor, it still gets around pretty quickly, and Crutchfield said it’s still the perfect small fishing boat where he launches on the Suwannee River. With the spirit of innovation that gave rise to that first bass boat and an open ear to the new requirements of early bass tournaments, Skeeter grew and evolved with the sport. The Skeeter Hawk did away with the characteristic pointed bow, which allowed for a smoother ride and a raised casting platform. In the 1970s, after moving into its current plant in Kilgore, Texas, Skeeter rolled the dice and introduced the legendary Wrangler to the bass fishing world. Rated for 150hp with a V-bottom, it was an odd and new style that absolutely dominated the competition in performance. It became the template that led to the high-performance fishing machines that roar

around our reservoirs today. In 2018, Skeeter Performance Fishing Boats is celebrating its 70th year of providing anglers with exceptional fishing boats. With modern technology and computer design capabilities, it has continued to lead the industry with innovations such as the first production composite bass boat, the ZX202, in the mid-1990s. The venerable ZX series, in all its versions, has been a staple in the bass tournament world for more then three decades. But listening to the needs of the fishermen who are its customers, Skeeter branched out to produce deep-v boats for walleye tournament anglers on the big lakes of the north, as well as bay boats for saltwater anglers. Skeeter’s acquisition by Yamaha in 1996 brought new resources to the table and advances followed. In 2001, Skeeter again set a new standard for the industry with its Torque Transfer Transom and Stringer System, which provides lift to the entire keel, while eliminating stress on the on the transom, deck, hull and sides. Through all the advancements, Skeeter boats bear little resemblance to Thurmond’s first bass boat. But the same concept, to design perfect

fishing boats for fishermen, is evident throughout Skeeter’s product line. Whether it’s on southern reservoirs, the big northern lakes or the bays and backwaters of the Gulf of Mexico, Skeeter has a nimble, fast and extremely fishable boat perfect for the kind of fishing you do.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

1/17/18 5:06 PM

IT’S MORE THAN JUST A BOAT. IT’S A LIFESTYLE.

STANDARD FEATURES INCLUDE: Center console command center Abundant bow & floor storage Lowrance® Elite 9 Ti touch 40 gallon rear livewell/baitwell Deluxe lean post w/vertical rod holders 14 gallon console baitwell New upholstery styling ...and much more!

ENGINEERED TO BE THE ULTIMATE BAY BOAT Ultimate in the way you get to the fish, with a durability that is unsurpassed. Engineering this one was a dream come true. We put everything you need right at your fingertips to provide you with a true fishing machine. For additional information please visit SkeeterBoats.com/SX240.

$42,995* 2O18 SX21O WITH

YAMAHA VF15OXA

ACTUAL SALES PRICE DETERMINED BY DEALER. PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE FREIGHT, DEALER PREP & T.T.L.

NATIONALLY ADVERTISED PRICE BEFORE REBATE

43,495

MANUFACTURER’S SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICE

52,060

STANDARD FEATURES INCLUDE: White Pro Series 2 Power-Pole® Abundant bow & floor storage Center console command center 25 gallon rear livewell/baitwell Leaning post with vertical rod holders 14 gallon console baitwell ...and much more! 8” setback plate

THE BEST RIDE AT THE BEST VALUE It’s true you really can have it all without spending it all. The SX210 is just the right fit for any situation. Family fun and weekend getaways make this boat a hero. For additional information please visit SkeeterBoats.com/SX210.

UP TO

INSTANT REBATE

LIMITED TIME OFFER INSTANT REBATE APPLIED AT TIME OF FINAL SALE BY DEALER.

VALID JANUARY 1-MARCH 31, 2018

LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY Limited Lifetime Structural Warranty 10 Year Limited Transferable Structural Warranty 3 Year Limited Component Warranty

Visit SkeeterBoats.com to locate your nearest Skeeter Dealer. Nationally Advertised Price; actual sales price determined by dealer. Price does not include freight, dealer prep, and T.T.L.. uManufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Prices may vary due to supply, location, freight etc. Actual prices are set by the dealer. *Terms and Conditions: Nationally Advertised Price for 2018 SX210 with $1500 Rebate. Consumer benefit for purchasing a new (unused, not previously warranty registered) eligible MY 2018 and prior boat from 1/1/18- 3/31/18 is an instant rebate applied at time of final sale by dealer, at no extra cost to consumer. Actual rebate amount is determined by model selected. NO BENEFIT SUBSTITUTIONS. Promotion is only applicable from authorized participating Skeeter dealers in the U.S.A. and Canada sold to purchasing consumers residing in the U.S.A. and Canada. Promotion is limited to available stock in dealer inventory that is sold, PDI completed, delivered and warranty registered in accordance with Skeeter’s promotion and warranty registration req uirements during applicable dates. No model substitutions, benefit substitutions, extensions or rain checks will be allowed. Not redeemable for cash. Boats sold or provided for commercial, camp, resort, rental, promotional/ demo, government agency, competition, tournament or sponsorship use are not eligible. This promotion cannot be used in conjunction with any other Skeeter offer or discounts. Some exceptions may apply. See authorized, participating Skeeter dealer for complete details. Skeeter reserves the right to change or cancel this promotion at any time. Other restrictions and conditions apply. ©2018 Skeeter Products, Inc. All rights reserved. This document contains many of Skeeter’s valuable trademarks. It may also contain trademarks belonging to other companies. Any references to other companies or their products are for identification purposes only, and are not intended to be an endorsement. Remember to observe all applicable boating laws. Never drink and ride. Dress properly with a USCG approved flotation device and protective gear. +

LOOK FOR US AT THE MIAMI INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW AT BOOTH A112 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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Rods & Reels

G. LOOMIS/SHIMANO CONQUEST

PENN CONFLICT II

PENN redesigned its smooth and durable Conflict reel to bring anglers the Conflict II, the most lightweight PENN reel ever made. It is a superior reel, perfectly suited to inshore applications. True to its origins, the Conflict II features stealthy cosmetics and a smooth and reliable HT-100 carbon fiber drag system. The RR30 Rigid Resin body and rotor are extremely lightweight and durable, and with the redesign, the Conflict II is 20 percent lighter than the first-generation Conflict. Internally, the Conflict II is updated with PENN’s CNC Gear Technology and high quality stainless steel ball bearings, making it the ultimate PENN inshore reel. With the Superline Spool, no backing is needed because of the rubber gasket that keeps superlines from slipping. Other key features include: Slow Oscillation – Leveline System, 7+1 sealed stainless steel ball bearing system and line capacity rings.

WWW.PENNFISHING.COM

ST. CROIX LEGEND TOURNAMENT INSHORE

What do you get when you mix proven G. Loomis rod design with Shimano technology? You get Conquest, a line of 12 awesome bass rods, purposebuilt for different conditions and techniques. The new Conquest series includes eight casting rods with G. Loomis’ original “Mag Bass” fast-action tapers and four “Spin/Jig” fast-action spinning rods. With Shimano’s Spiral X and Hi-Power X processes, the blanks are rolled to exact G. Loomis specifications before being handfinished in G. Loomis’ Woodland, Wash. facility. With this partnership, engineers believe they have produced the most technologically advanced rods on the water. They are lightweight and offer anglers a whole new set of performance standards. Some of the benefits anglers will experience are: more accurate casts, increased fighting power, solid leverage for hook sets and reduced rod twist for rod control and durability. The casting rods are fitted with G. Loomis’ “skeleton” reel seats on full-cork contoured grips. The spinning rods feature split grips and Shimano’s CI4 reel seats. Blank-through-handle design on both versions adds sensitivity, as do the Fuji Torzite guides and a durable SIC Titanium tip guide. Whether you’re pitching jigs in thick cover or prospecting open water for smallies, high-performance Conquest rods will help you catch more bass.

WWW.GLOOMIS.COM

PENN INTERNATIONAL VI

Legend Tournament Inshore rods are the blending of the inimitable sensitivity, power and durability of St Croix’s Legend Tournament Bass and Walleye series with components and technology suited for saltwater environments. With good looks and a high-performance feel, the Legend Tournament Inshore was awarded Best Saltwater rod at ICAST 2017. The eye-catching “Belize Blue” blanks are crafted of SCIV graphite using Integrated Poly Curve tooling technology and engineered to eliminate all transitional points, which fosters smooth action, increased strength and sensitivity. They are surprisingly lightweight, yet durable, and are equipped with a Fuji TVS blank touch reel seat on spinning rods and PTS blank-touch reel seat with builtin hoods on casting models. These new Fuji seats are designed to stand-up to the pressure of hard-fighting inshore species. Kigan Master Hand Zero Tangle guides and a Kigan titanium hook keeper provide 100 percent corrosion protection.

After nearly 15 years, the PENN International big game reel will get a makeover. The reel that has become legendary for fulfilling angler dreams offshore has been refined and modernized to once again redefine big game reels. The PENN International VI series features many upgrades including a weight reduction on key sizes, a new silent anti-reverse and a more refined/ adjustable Dura-Drag system. The new series features 28 models in both gold and silver, single speed and two-speed, wide and narrow. Made in the U.S.A. of domestic and imported components at the historic PENN Fishing Tackle Manufacturing Company building in Philadelphia, the International VI will give anglers the edge in chasing that trophy of a lifetime. Key features include: Machined and anodized aluminum body and side plates, stainless steel main and pinion gears, Quick-Shift II two-speed system, sealed DuraDrag system, Versa-Strike Adjustable Strike stop, double-dog ratchet anti-reverse and line capacity rings.

STCROIXRODS.COM

WWW.PENNFISHING.COM

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1/17/18 5:06 PM

Product Reviews

TSUNAMI ARMR

MUD HOLE TURN KEY KITS Avid anglers who want to take their fishing to the next level owe it to themselves to check out Mud Hole Custom Tackle’s rod building kits. They include everything needed for anglers to construct their own high-end custom fishing rods. Mud Hole is offering an amazing value on its Inshore Turnkey Kit, which includes all the tools and materials to build a custom inshore rod perfect for trout and redfish. The kit features the extremely popular and versatile MHX SJ842 rod blank. This 7’0” medium-light power rod features a fast action for throwing soft plastics and topwater lures at wary flats fish. Along with the blank, the kit comes with a matched guide set, handle kit and everything from the CRB wrapper, a CRB rod dryer and ProPaste and ProKote Rod Finish and all the tools needed to craft your own custom rod. Visit www.mudhole.com and check out all our Turn Key Kit options or simply Google: Mud Hole Turnkey.

Super smooth and well built, the Tsunami ARMR is lightweight, high-performance spinning reel available in 3000/4000 and 5000/6000 sizes. The Tsunami ARMR has a sleek design and features

high-end components to provide smooth and durable operation for fighting and casting. The lightweight, solid aluminum body combined with hybrid, corrosion resistant carbon infused side plates and rotor and a double anodized ported aluminum spool are what keep this reel feather light in the hand all day long. Seven high-precision, shielded stainless steel ball bearings allow full support to all free-moving parts during the toughest fight or retrieve after retrieve. The look and feel of the Tsunami ARMR reel, enhanced by a light, durable EVA handle knob and braid-ready spool is what separates these high-performance reels from the competition.

WWW.BIMINIBAYOUTFITTERS.COM

WWW.MUDHOLE.COM

SHIMANO SUSTAIN HOOKER ELECTRIC REELS Hooker Electric continues to raise the bar with the fastest, lightest and best looking electric reels on the market, along with second-to-none customer service. The top seller in 2017 was their 80 motor that features level wind and auto stop, mounted on the Shimano Tiagra 80WA. The auto stop feature allows the angler to set the reel to stop winding at any interval, including just before your terminal tackle reaches the rod tip. With both 12- and 24-volt functionality, there is no need for a converter box. Its full variable speed allows line retrieval at up to 500 feet per minute, which makes checking your bait from 1,800 feet a breeze. It also includes bluetooth connectivity, allowing the angler to control the reel through Hooker Electric’s iPhone app, ReelTime. If you’re feeling sporty, the reel can also be used manually, so you can feel the fight. New for 2018, Hooker Electric now offers custom colors in silver, black, blue and even pink. For more information, go to www.hookerelectric.com or give them a call at 954-530-6908.

WWW.HOOKERELECTRIC.COM

T h e Best New Saltwater Reel winner at ICAST 2017, Shimano’s Sustain might just be the best new spinning reel for freshwater or salt. The Sustain series comes in four sizes suitable for everything from finesse baits for bass, to stripers and even small billfish. In all sizes, the reel’s Hagane aluminum body construction gives it a solid feel, and the Shimano Magnumlite low inertia rotor provides sensitive, light rotation and a light start up, which allows anglers to instantly begin the retrieve. Shimano’s Hagane gear has already made waves in the industry for its incredibly smooth operation. The exclusive technology used to engineer the cold forged aluminum drive also makes it extremely strong and durable. The X-Protect feature, which should be of particular interest to saltwater anglers but is relevant in any wet fishing conditions, is a threelipped rubber seal system that offers exceptional water resistance. With Cross Carbon Drag, eight shielded anti-rust ball bearings, and a one-way roller bearing to stop handle backplay, Shimano went in whole hog to produce these award-winning reels. Whether you fish freshwater or salt, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better spinning reel.

FISH.SHIMANO.COM

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MOTOR UPGRADES ARE AVAILABLE

Marine Wintertime Blowout $209* mon

G2968 Key Largo 160cc

G2661 Key Largo 1800 cc

40 HP Motor

90 HP Motor

WAS $23,849 NOW $15,999

WAS $37,749 NOW $25,999

$194* mon

90 HP Motor

G3149 Caravelle 16EBo 70 HP Motor

WAS $30,746 NOW $19,799

$299* mon thly

thly

G2849 Key Largo 2000

G2646 Key Largo 210LX

WAS $50,787 NOW $35,990

WAS $59,266 NOW $36,990

150 HP Motor

140 HP Motor

WAS $35,833 NOW $23,999

thly

$279* mon

thly

G3068 Caravelle 19EBo

$164* mon

thly

$377* mon

$306* mon

$368* mon

thly

G3010 Key Largo 220BAY

G3054 Razon 238PF

140 HP Motor

200 HP Motor

WAS $61,517 NOW $39,599

WAS $78,605 NOW $49,599

thly

G3081 Razor 247UR 200 HP Motor

WAS $71,288 NOW $48,499

www.factorydirectmarine.com *payments calculated at 180 months for well qualified buyers with 20% down. Please note: Prices do not include freight, dealer make ready, and rigging. Pictures may not reflect actual unit and/or available inventory. Price and payment do not include sales tax or fees. Not responsible for typographical errors.

Ridgeland, SC, 401 Sycamore Drive, 844-280-9753 | Panama City, FL, 8308 Panama City Beach Pkwy, 844-278-2510 Charlotte, NC | 9204 N Lakebrook Road | 980-267-5597 | Rockwood,TN, 2475 Westel Road, 844-271-9582 Hamburg, PA, 20 Industrial Drive , 844-247-1678 | West Coxsackie, NY, 12634 Route 9 West, 844-276-8649

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All trademarks mentioned are owned by, or licensed to, the AkzoNobel group of companies. Â© AkzoNobel 2017.

$136* mon

For over a century, a league of canned crusaders have been fighting to keep boats safe from barnacles, slime, algae and other aquatic evils that rob your boat of its true performance. With advanced know-how and unique capabilities, each antifouling is tailored to different conditions, and has the power to defeat fouling in all its forms. Micron® Extra leads the charge in all waters. Using its signature dual-protection with boosting Biolux® technology, it provides high-quality, multi-season protection that survives hauling and relaunch without the need for repainting. For super-powered antifouling protection and proven performance, choose Interlux®.

All trademarks mentioned are owned by, or licensed to, the AkzoNobel group of companies. © AkzoNobel 2017.

The hero your boat deserves!

8953/1217

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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM â&#x20AC;¢ THEANGLERMAG.COM

1/17/18 5:06 PM

Drifting For

Nighttime Yellowfin On Gulf Floaters

By Nick Carter

ellowfin tuna are some of the most sought after gamefish in the world. They are the ahi tuna on the menus at restaurants and sushi bars, and in the water they have the speed and power to wear down anglers and break gear. The signature “spiral” that tuna commence in the waning moments of a fight is responsible for untold numbers of broken lines and broken hearts. After battling 30 mph runs for 20 minutes or more, the weary angler, captain and crew face one final test, a team effort to survive the spiral and get the fish on deck. These tense moments, when a big yellowfin turns sideways and begins to circle, using its body’s mass as leverage, are the most critical minutes of the fight. If the line even touches the boat, it will snap, and the circling fish provides many opportunities for this to happen. These moments are the reason Randy King, of Paparda Rey Fishing Charters out of Galveston, Texas, says the main limitation on their catch is the ability of the angler. The captain, Kenneth Doxey, is solid. He has been running their 54-foot Bertram and their 35-foot Cabo for more than a decade. He was the 2016 recipient

of the Houston Big Game Fishing Club’s Jim Peachey Award. The crew is also top-notch, which leaves the angler as the potential weak link. The good news is there will likely be multiple opportunities on one of their overnight trips to deep-water oil platforms off Texas. King said a great trip with six anglers would yield a dozen yellowfin tuna in the 40- to 120-pound range, and that doesn’t include the shots anglers will have at mahi-mahi, wahoo, marlin and blackfin tuna. Out of Galveston, it’s 100 miles or more into the Gulf of Mexico to reach the enormous floating gas and oil structures off the edge of the Continental Shelf. These deep-water facilities, known as “floaters,” create their own food chain, consolidating bait and gamefish from miles around. On a typical 36- or 48-hour trip, don’t plan on sleeping much. The floaters are brightly lit at night, which is when the tuna fishing is best. After identifying fish on the sonar, chumming and drift fishing with 30-pound-class tackle is usually the most productive method for yellowfin. “Sometimes the tuna will start breaching,” said King. “They’ll jump in the air like king mackerel.” It’s for these occasions, when fish are on the surface, that big spinning rigs armed with poppers are

kept on deck. Drifting and pulling poppers while chugging back up-current to start a new drift goes on all night long. At dawn, the bait rods come in, and it’s time to start trolling. The primary daylight targets are marlin, sailfish, wahoo and dolphin. Between night and day, it equates to a whole lot of big fish packed into a weekend at sea. It’s a grand adventure, and a meat trip of epic proportions in the Gulf of Mexico. Check out Paparda Rey at www.offshorebiggame.com. Information on the Houston Big Game Fishing Club can be found at www.hbgfc.com.

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By Randy “C-Note” Cnota f you’ve ever found yourself fishing for largemouths after a bitter cold front has blown into your area, then you might be familiar with how tough northern winds can make it to fill a livewell. All tournament anglers know these fronts wait until the night before the competition to crash the feeding-frenzy of the days prior to an event. There is hope in this situation, and it doesn’t involve finesse presentations. It requires you to break out your heaviest sticks and braid (65 lb. minimum) as well as your stoutest hooks and beefiest weights. It’s time to present your bait where many fear to go… under the floating grass mats. I have an 11 pounder, two 10 pounders and probably over 100 in the 5- to 8-lb. range to my credit using this technique. Mats of grass in the South consist of wide variety of aquatic vegetation. Where I fish most, they consist of hydrilla, submergent Airline_CoastalAnglerAd_3-2016_Layout 1 3/18/16 1:07 PM aPage 1 grass that grows to the surface, and hyacinth, a floating vegetation.

The hydrilla acts as a base that holds the hyacinth in place. This makes for a bass sanctuary similar to your home in that it has walls and a ceiling. The trick to presenting your bait to these cold fish hiding under the mats is to crash it through their roof (the hyacinth) using a large tungsten steel weight. The exact size is dependent upon the thickness of the mat, but you want a weight that penetrates without too much effort. I usually opt for a 1 ¾-ounce, as the bass will be heading for the deepest recesses of the mat. This is also a place that many anglers fail to target because it can be quite a chore to penetrate and doubly difficult to extract a fish… especially a big fish. This is why we use heavy rods, lines and hooks. The most popular baits to present to these fish are small craw or creature type baits. I find Gambler Chigger Craws or Burner Craws work great, but there’s no shortage of baits to choose from. Color is always a personal preference, but I’ve had the best results using hues of green like watermelon-red and green pumpkin for clear water and dark hues like black/blue or junebug for darker water. As for the technique, simply put, you have to get the bait through the roof and into the bass’ house so he can eat it, but there are too many subtleties to discuss here. Once a bass bites, you have to get him out so again… NO WIMPY TACKLE! If you’ve never punched mats, I suggest you go out with someone with experience. Commit to spending a lot of time punching the mats, and set out with a variety of weights, hooks and lures to experiment and fine tune your technique. And don’t forget the camera; most fish hauled out of these places are picture-worthy. Capt. Randy Cnota is the publisher of the Panama City/Forgotten Coast edition of Coastal Angler Magazine.

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Tobin Strickland - CAM Special Correspondent • Photo courtesy of TroutSupport.com

pring is almost here on the Gulf and Atlantic coasts. Soon the redbuds and crabapples and a host of other flowering trees and plants will be budding. Where should you be fishing? For many years now, I’ve learned to read the plants that are blooming to know if the seasonal shift of my bay would be ahead of schedule or behind. While the last several winters have had bitter cold, these cold periods still have been shorter compared to long-term trends. This leads to certain flowering trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants to bloom early or later, and I’ve found over time this to be a consistent indicator correlating with forage species movements into and out of the bays and estuaries. Redbuds, crabapples, and a host of flowering bulbs tend to be great indicators of early spring warm ups and whether or not the trout will move early from the rivers and other winter haunts to more of a spring location ahead of schedule or sometimes behind schedule. You’ll have to begin making notes in your log as to what the fish are doing in your area and what species to watch as they bloom and stop. Seeing the redbuds flower early compared to prior seasons could lead you to abandon your winter fishing locations ahead of your planned time. Getting on the move early can then help you find those early spring fish ahead of schedule. Tobin created TroutSupport.com—Tech Support for Speckled Trout and Redfish Anglers—beyond the basics.

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By Capt. Michael Okruhlik • Photo courtesy of Controlled Descent Lures

n early November, my buddy and I set out to fish some shallow flats in our kayaks. The water and air temperatures were near the 80-degree mark in south Texas. The area we had available to us only had a few inches of tidal flow predicted. When saltwater fishing, current is at the top of the list for catching requirements, but when the tide doesn’t provide it, find something that will. I had not fished this area in three years, and since that time hurricane Harvey changed a few things from the vehicle access point to my favorite hole, which isn’t a hole anymore. Needless to say, this was going to be a scouting mission as well as a fishing trip. We made our way to our first stop, which was a large knee- to waist-deep grass flat with a deep channel running down one side that is separated by a few spoil islands. We anchored up at the tip of a spoil island and casted to the channel. Although there was an abundance of bait, we didn’t get a strike. Off to plan B, my old honey hole. Once there, I realized the sweet spot was no longer, but we fished the area thoroughly since bait was present. We managed only a few strikes and a couple small trout. Knowing that the fish were inactive and that the tide was weak, I searched for an area where the wind might help drive a little more water flow to get the fish feeding. We headed back to the vicinity of our first stop, which was a flat the shape of a football field with the wind blowing from one endzone to the other. On the downwind side, there were a few small islands with breaks between them. Due to the wind, these breaks

funneled stronger water movement onto a small shallow flat. This flat didn’t have more bait than the other areas, but it did have water movement, which sparked the bite. We spent several hours in this tiny area catching reds and speckled trout. We used the same lures and presentation as we did earlier in the day. Soft plastic topwater jerk baits in pearl accounted for the more aggressive fish, but they were the smaller ones in this area. All of our larger fish came on slow-sinking paddle shad. Targeting the potholes and letting the lures slowly sink at the edge of the sand-to-grass transition drew the better strikes.

Photo courtesy of Capt. Tim Cutting

When fishing on less than desirable tides, remember to seek out locations that can offer it a push. Funnels and choke points are always a good bet, even if they are subtle. The water depth was the same on both sides and in between the islands, but it gave that little push the fish needed. Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Controlled Descent Lures and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.

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COLUMBIA/ MIDLANDS

R E P O R T S Lake Murray Clarks Hill Lake Lake Marion & Moultrie Lake Wateree Trout

Welcome to the Columbia/Midlands Edition of The Angler. This is an endevour I chose to pursue due to my love of the outdoors. Although The Angler is geared toward fishing, it is very much a publication about many outdoor activities an enthusiast can enjoy. I must thank the local and regional writers that contributed to this first edition and also invite others to contact me if interested in contributing to the publication. I must also thank the advertisers who helped me launch this first edition. This being my first rodeo at publishing, it may be a little rough around the edges, however, we will be fine tuning as we go.

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LAKE MURRAY REPORT

n the month of February, the water temperatures on Lake Murray will begin to warm by the end of the month. Fish will continue to move from their winter patterns into their pre-spawn patterns, bringing the fish closer to the banks and into the shallows. Focus should be on the main flow areas of the lake and around the mouths of creek arms in the color transitions on secondary points, as well as steep banks, focusing on rock and hard bottom areas. On the upper reaches (from Dreher Island up river) of the lake, and in the backs of main lake coves where the water has more color, look for fish to be positioned in the deep water closest to shore and starting to show up on shoreline cover, such as laydowns, docks and rocky banks. This can be relative to the area. It could be a ditch in a pocket, a deep bank of a creek channel, the side of a point, or the end of a point that drops into a ditch or creek channel in front of a spawning bay. Typically, fish will be holding relatively close to deep water, 10 foot or more, and starting to position even shallower by the end of the month. Techniques of choice should be slower techniques with crayfish and shad mimicking baits. Good lures of choice are Greenfish Michael Murphy Signature High Class Spinnerbaits, umbrella rigs rigged with Reins Pearl White 3” Rockvibe Shad or Herring colored 3.25” Fat Rockvibe shad, crankbaits like the Ima Pinjack 200 or the flat sided Ima Shaker, Greenfish jigs; Soft Plastics or Finesse worms, creature baits, tubes and beaver type baits, such as the Reins Punchin’ Predator, Craw Tube, the New C-pod, the New Paddle Tail Worm, and Swamp Mover in a natural or green pumpkin color. Target moving baits during cloudy or windy conditions, switching to slower moving baits as the day gets brighter and without wind. Be sure to key 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), focus on slower moving bottom baits, such as a jig, shakey head, or a dropshot Reins Bubbling Shaker in a Watermelon or Green Pumpkin color, especially during times with lack of wind. During conditions with wind, focus on suspending and moving baits like the IMA Flit 120 in the Sexy Pearl Shad or Boned Shad, The New Ima Deep Fry 95 in Chartreuse Shad or Misty Shad and Ima Pinjack 200 in the Gizzard Shad or Bluegill color on points and deep banks with rock, and jigging spoons in Chrome or White on the sides and ends of points, and by the end of the month swimbaits, like the New Ima Glide Fluke 128mm Sinking in the Half Metallic Blue and Ghost Blue Gizzard and the Optimum Baits Boom Boom Rigged Swimbait in a Sexy Shad or

2 COLUMBIA

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Blue Shad Color around docks. Key areas are those holding Blueback Herring shallower and White Perch deeper. Be sure to key on the sides of flatter points with hard bottoms where there may be a drop or an ambush area. A tip for finding these kinds of points quickly, is that they are typically marked with a hazard marker buoy warning boaters of shallow water. This time of year on the lower end of the lake, boat positioning can be key, with the boat positioned over water as deep as 30-40 feet, casting toward the point. A LakeMaster chip in your graph, setting the shaded depth on your Humminbird (Press Menu twice, under Chart), to 30 feet can be Extremely helpful in locating ideal humps and points. Also very important is the wind. Follow the wind from day to day, fishing points that have the most direct wind blowing on them, paying attention to the wind can be the difference between a successful day and a difficult one this time of year. The month of February is when fish start to venture into their prespawn areas. This is a great month to catch fish in predictable areas, as they can be easy to pattern with good electronics. Bass will be in the backs of creeks and pockets holding in the last deep water areas around rocks and docks, and set up well in deeper 25-40 foot areas off of points toward the end of the month. Up the river and in the backs of creeks and coves, where resident fish are more prevalent, fish could still be as shallow as a couple feet, as long as there is a creek channel or deep water nearby. Be sure to focus on areas with bait, hard bottom areas, and North shore banks that get the most sunlight. Down the lake where Bass are set up deep, they will either be feeding on Blueback Herring, White Perch or crayfish, and will typically be positioned on long tapering points adjacent to spawning coves. This time of year is a great time to utilize your electronics and spend time idling looking for key sweet spots in the form of rock piles or brush piles. 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, full-time Largemouth Bass guide, have fished full-time and competitively for the past 12 years across the country on both the BASS and FLW trails, and have a lifetime of fishing experience. I offer a learning experience on multiple 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 , 803-567-5263, www.MichaelMurphyFishing.com, Michael@MichaelMurphyFishing.com

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ishing in January was fair to good. Catching quantity was easy–catching a large number of keeper fish was a challenge. Three out of every ten fish were keepers. Fish thrown back were 19” to 20 1/2” inches long. They were good fish– just a inch or less shy of keeper size. The fish being caught are fat & healthy–they are feeding heavily on thread fin shad. Very little schooling activity took place, which is odd for January. The best bites took place pulling gizzard shad using planner boards in shallow water (5 to 15 feet) or fishing small to medium size herring on down lines in 40’ to 50’ of water. The average number of fish caught each trip ranged from 30 to 40. Take at least 4-5 doz herring if you are going to fish live bait. Water temperature & O2 levels are perfect all over the lake for stripers. The fish are scattered from Blacks-Bridge in the Saluda River down to the Big Gap. Good electronics is needed to consistently catch them right now.I expect schooling activity to pick up a good bit in January. Tighten your knots and get a good grip on your rod when casting into schooling fish. The fish will be aggressively feeding– top water action will be HOT. Do not leave the dock without a good supply of Pencil Poopers & Super Size Ivory Colored Flutes. When you see birds crashing the water slam on breaks and start casting! My advice for February–get off the couch and go fishing. You won’t be disappointed !! Capt. Mike, (803) 609-0066, www.StriperMike.net

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If You Enjoy Your Freedom... Thank a Vet

lans for the 2018 annual Troop Fishing Derby are underway! This years event will take place June 20, 2018 on Pine Island (private club house owned by SCE&G). We plan to take 65 to 70 wounded warriors on a guided striped bass fishing trip on Lake Murray this year. We are expecting 21 local boat captains &/or fishermen to take soldiers on 6-7 hours guided striped bass fishing trip. A catered breakfast & lunch will be included for our soldiers, boat captains & supporters.

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We are anticipating 175-200 people to participate in this very worthy cause (special recognition will be given to senior veterans). The event is 100% expense free for soldiers. The event is underwritten by the Troop Appreciation Foundation (501-c3 Organization) and our objective is to thank soldiers for their sacrifice. We are expecting approximately $20,000 in gifts & prizes to be awarded to Wounded Warriors. The Derby was born in 2012 by Mike Glover, Lake Murray fishing guide, who had some army officers on a chartered fishing trip. During their discussions Mike suggested that it would be great if we could thank the troops in some way for their service. Would they be interested in a sponsored fishing trip? The answer was a resounding YES! As a result 15 boats and local fishermen took 43 troops on what turned out to be the first annual fishing trip. In 2013 the outing was expanded at the request of the army. Twenty-one boats, guides and local fishermen took 69 of our warriors out on Lake Murray for a very successful fishing trip followed by a nice lunch and prizes. This was the second annual event. In 2014 the outing was expanded and twenty-eight boats, guides and local fishermen took 93 of our warriors out on Lake Murray for a very successful fishing trip followed by a nice lunch and prizes. This was the third annual event and was highly successful because of participation from patriotic sponsors and volunteers serving our heroes. If you are interested in making the Troop Appreciation Fishing Derby a memorable event for the troops such as help with finances, prizes or volunteering with the event, we can always use the support! Contact: captaindw@netzero.net A veteran is someone who, at one point in his life, wrote a blank check made payable to ‘The United States of America ‘ for an amount of ‘up to and including my life.’

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CLARKS HILL REPORT

ook for blue catfish on Clark’s Hill to be right with the big schools of bait fish. For Example, if the bait fish are holding in 2030 feet of water, look for humps that top out right in the middle of that depth. Anchor and fancast baits at all different depths of the hump. Secondary points that intersect with the depth range that the bait fish are holding can also be productive. Warm and cold snaps can quickly affect the depth that bait fish hold, so you will have to search each time out. Cut gizzard shad and white perch are the best baits for targeting big fish. Herring is good for the smaller ones, however will attract big one occasionally. Captain Chris Simpson. Fightin Da Blues Guide Service, 864-992-2352, www. fightindablues.com

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LAKE MARION/MOULTRIE REPORT

ake Marion is excellent during the winter months for big cats drift fishing at 20-30 feet deep using butterflied shad or herring. Also, crappie and bream can be caught on brush piles in both lakes. On Lake Marion, you can catch big catfish by stump jumping by using shad or herring as bait. You can also put a straight line down beside the stump with a bream on as your bait to catch big flatheads. Also, drifting the edges of the river channel in Lake Marion can produce big catfish. If you like fishing for bream or crappie, you should try fishing around the stumps in deep water. On Lake Moultrie, bream and crappie can be caught off brush piles. February is a good time to start planning a fishing trip with S & S Guide Service on Lake Marion or Lake Moultrie. Capt David Adams, S & S Guide Service specializing in catfish bream and crappie, 803 308 3635, sandsguideservice@gmail.com, www.sandsfishingguide.net.

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FEBRUARY 2018

COLUMBIA 9

LAKE WATERWEE REPORT

ebruary on lake wateree is the best time to catch a trophy catfish. They will be under the bait balls in the main river channel this time of year. White perch seems to be the best bait. Stripers will be scattered from June creek all the way to the dam. They can be caught on multiple techniques but watching the birds is the easiest way to locate them. Jason Wolfe, Wolfe’s Guide Service, 803-487-3690

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Run From The Wind and You Will Run From The Fish By Jake Bussolini

or many years now I have watched anglers run to the leeward side of islands and points when the wind picks up. Based on all of the studies that I have done, that is the wrong practice for catching more fish. Of course safety is always the first consideration of every boat operator and safety should never be set aside in favor of a better catch rate. BUT I have always believed that continued prevailing winds drive the small bait fish toward the windward shores and in most situations, the predator fish will follow the food source. Boat control is certainly more difficult when fishing while fighting the wind, but if my theory is correct, it is worth the additional effort to improve your catch rate. I have found that over the many years of my angling life, experienced anglers seem to follow the myths handed down to them by their predecessors, sometimes their parents, and sometimes their mentors. In many of these cases I have found that these myths have proven to be incorrect. In my many fishing books, I have tried to use experienced fishing data to verify or disprove many fishing myths. I have a technical background so proof to me means lots of properly collected data, analyzed with unbiased methods. I usually take two extended fishing trips to Canada each year. These trips provide an excellent base for collecting information because the fishing days can be 12 to 14 hours long so weather and other conditions can easily be evaluated. In the case of any subject that includes wind, Canada is an excellent place to evaluate wind effects because the wind blows nearly all of the time. On my most recent Canada trip, I collected great data on the wind effect on the fish. The lake that I fished contained many large and small islands and during a five day trip the wind was steady every day, often mixed with rain and overcast skies. The data that I collected on

this trip was very conclusive to me considering the wind and showed rather conclusively that fishing the windward side of islands produced nearly four times the number of bass than fishing the leeward side of these same islands. I sampled data on four days with varying degrees of wind from heavy wind and rain to light or no wind. In each case I fished the same number of hours on both the windward and leeward side of islands. The results are shown on the chart below. As shown on this chart, Island #1 was fished for several hours in heavy wind and continuous rain. The catch rate on the windward side of the island was 4 time higher than the rate on the leeward side of that same island. The second island was fished in very heavy rain and strong wind. The catch rate on the windward side of the island was nearly 5 times higher on the windward side. The third test was on a day with light winds and overcast skies. The catch rate on the windward side was nearly twice that of the rate on the leeward side. The last test was run on a clear day with very light wind. There was little difference in the catch rate in this case although the light winds also created an overall lower catch rate. Based on this data which I consider a good sample, wind is not an enemy of the angler but if used correctly it can help increase the daily catch rate. So folks, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t run from the wind, use it to your advantage. Jake Bussolini is a freelance writer who has published seven books about freshwater fishing. His books can be examined at www.booksbyjake,com.

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FEBRUARY 2018

COLUMBIA 11

TROUT REPORT

he Saluda River fished well in January despite chilly temperatures early in the month. The fish were extremely concentrated in the areas easier to access with the stocking trucks. This trend will continue as The Department of Natural Resources will continue to stock trout periodically through the month of February. While you can catch some fish in water that looks fairly featureless, most of the trout will be in current breaks near faster water. Current tail outs seams tent to be the most productive. Stick to typical fly selections like Hare’s Ears and Pheasant Tails. Small streamers and dry flies will also produce fish. For spinning rod use small Rooster Tails and Mepps spinners in a variety of colors. February is a special time in the river. Rainbow trout begin their spawn in mid to late January and signs of this will continue through the month of February. If you are wading, watch where you step. The trout fan and clear the bottom to lay their eggs in a redd. These redds typically stand out as they are lighter colored than the gravel and mossy bottom around them. The wild trout are still around and mixed in the the stockers so if you catch a fish that is cleaner and more brightly colored with all of its fins please let it go. Be safe on the river as winter flows can change suddenly.

Teaching the techniques and tactics of fly fishing and casting as well as the use application of conventional tackle to catch the species of fish found in the rivers in and around Columbia, SC.

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Surprising Winter is the Best Planting Time

I am often asked when is the best time to plant fruiting plants. My answer is usually the same; the best time is 20 years ago or today. The second best time to plant is during the winter months. Plants are dormant, and can be easily shipped and planted with no stress on the plant because there is not a lot of maintenance once the plant or tree has been planted. Simply dig a good hole, water thoroughly

at planting, and take the rest of the winter off. Even though there are no signs of growth above ground, the root systems will have time to get adjusted to their new location and begin to initiate new root growth. There are plenty of advantages of growing your own edibles. First of all, you know what has been done over the course of the growing season from a chemical stand point. Second, the fruit just taste

better coming out of your home orchard versus buying fruit from the grocers that have little to no flavors. Thirdly, it is good for your soul and you will feel more connected to the environment and nature. Whether it is an apple tree, muscadine vine or a blueberry bush; now is the time to plant. Let’s Grow Together. Greg Ison, Ison’s Nursery and Vineyards, 800733-0324, www.isons.com

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n January the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries submitted an application to NOAA Fisheries for an exempted fishing permit (EFP). NOAA Fisheries issues these permits to authorize activities, which would otherwise be prohibited by federal fishery regulations, for limited testing, data collection, exploratory fishing and other purposes. NOAA Fisheries invited the Gulf states to apply for EFPs to lead reef fish management activities in the Gulf of Mexico. LDWF’s proposed EFP study would test a state-based management approach that would allow recreational harvest of red snapper in both state and federal waters off Louisiana during seasons set by the state. LDWF would monitor landings through Louisiana’s existing recreational landings data collection program (LA Creel) and track fishing at oil and gas platforms, artificial reefs, and natural bottom habitat. Participants would also have the option to test new, voluntary electronic reporting methods. Seasons would be closed when landings approach or reach Louisiana’s recreational quota. Anyone with a Louisiana Saltwater Fishing License and a Recreational Offshore Fishing Permit (ROLP) would be eligible to participate in the study. Participants would be required to indicate their preference to participate in the study via their ROLP account, provide vessel registration information (per federal requirements), and abide by the federal minimum size limit (currently 16 inches) and two fish bag limit.

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Telling Good Fish Stories By Matt Jorn

Laura Price of Lexington, N.C. and a nice Dorado caught with the FishingNosara Explorer on Dec. 5, 2017.

“W

hat did you catch today?” It is a question asked at every marina, boat ramp and backyard dock in the world every day of the fishing calendar. This is your chance to hold up your catch, your fillet bag or your digital camera. It is a chance to reveal (or conceal) details regarding where and how you snared your prey. It is also the chance to spin a wonderful tale of the leviathan that you fought for hours, had right next to the boat, and locked eyes with only to have it spit the hook/break the leader/get caught on the props/ pull you overboard… we’ve all been there! Even the master angler and author Ernest Hemingway’s beloved “The Old Man and the Sea” is a fish tale, featuring the angler we all wish we were losing the fish we all wish we could catch.

The craft of embellishing your catch is a time-honored tradition; however as the curator of the FishingNosara Costa Rica Fishing Report, I take umbrage with the 21st century version of the fish story. For the last seven years, I have documented every one of the 2,000plus trips run by the Nosara, Costa Rica based fishing team. Each report is meticulously checked for accuracy, including the angler’s names, trip date, fish caught, and (most importantly) photographs of the catches. I also encourage my clients to offer their own stories from the fishing experience. In December 2017, we hosted Laura and Michael Price. Here’s what Laura wrote: “My husband and I went out today on the Explorer. We had an AMAZING time!!! We ended the day with six mahi mahi caught with one mahi mahi, one tuna and one marlin getting away. Phenomenal crew! We loved every minute of it!” Here is another example, this time from angler Kevin Bahr: “We went with Capt. William and his mate Johnny. They were very professional and ready to ensure we had a successful outing on May 12. The weather was pretty sketchy, but we were able to locate the fish and ended up with a freezer full of ahi and mahi mahi. We cut our day short due to the weather, but our crew was willing to stay out longer if we wanted to. Despite the weather, it was a great day!” Everyone knows that the Internet is a place where the line between fact and fiction is often blurry; from politics, to sports, to fishing—it is not always easy to separate the truth, from an opinion, from a sales pitch. For instance, a quick glance at a competing Central American fishing charter’s report looks like this: Dec 27, 3 sailfish, 6 mahi-mahi, 1 marlin. Dec 28, 7 sailfish, 2 marlin. Dec 29, 5 mahi-mahi, 3 yellowfin tuna, 1 sailfish. Who is this helping? Why no details, no photos? Is this for search engines, the illiterate, or the lazy? I put it to all anglers in the 21st century posting online: Tell me a good fish story or log-off.

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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT INTERLUX MICRON EXTRA ANTI-FOULING PAINT Anglers across the country will be glad to hear that Micron Extra—the classleading antifouling that delivers consistent, multiseason protection against all forms of fouling—is back in stock, thanks to the renewed manufacturing of one of its raw ingredients. Providing boaters with the signature proven performance of the Interlux Micron range, Micron Extra uses Biolux technology to achieve complete protection against shell, weed and slime fouling in all waters fresh and salt. By combining the slime-blocking capabilities of Biolux with a controlled solubility copolymer that releases active ingredients steadily over time, Micron Extra achieves long-lasting, full-spectrum defense against fouling organisms. This copolymer matrix gradually wears away like a layer of soap as the boat moves through water, via a steady polishing process. The result is a continuous, regulated delivery of biocides from each freshly exposed layer, ensuring consistent, long-lasting performance and maximum efficiency. Micron Extra retains full antifouling effectiveness when hauled, and can be relaunched without repainting. Stop by your local shipstore or boatyard and ask for Micron Extra, available in both quarts and gallons, and in all popular colors.

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By CAM Staff • Photo Courtesy of Sea Eagle Boats Last spring we introduced you to Sea Eagle’s FishSUP FS126, an inflatable stand-up paddleboard with which we were initially quite impressed. A year later, we’re fully convinced this super-stable, lightweight fishing machine is worth the praise. “I’m thrilled with its performance,” said Coastal Angler’s Tom Schlichter. “I’ve fished it from Long Island, N.Y. to the Florida Keys in everything from mangroves to bulrushes and boulder fields, and it’s come through unscathed.” At 12’6”x40” the FishSUP FS126 is both spacious and tough enough to work hardened shorelines. Heavy duty .90 drop stitch material covers the top, bottom and sides for superior protection against punctures and a 90”x18” thick camo EVA pad adds additional buffering while providing a non-slip foot bed. An integral 36-inch ruler makes fish measurement a snap. It fits in a trunk for easy transport, fully inflates in under 10 minutes, and has smartly positioned D-rings to secure a host of standard and optional fishing accessories including a swivel seat with Scotty rod holders, battery, 34-lb thrust electric motor, and forward mesh storage box with tube-style rod holders. “I love the stability, toughness and versatility of this platform,” said Schlichter. “You can stand, sit or kneel while casting, fish in freshwater or saltwater, and even add an optional Watersnake Venom 34 electric trolling motor.” Prices range from $799 for a basic start-up kit to $1,149 for a Pro Motor and Fishing Rig package. FOR MORE INFO,

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eginning Feb. 1, crappie anglers will have the chance to win part of $172,000 in cash prizes being awarded in the 2018 Weiss Lake Crappie Rodeo in Alabama. More than 1,000 pink-tagged crappie were released into the reservoir on the Alabama/Georgia border. Each of those fish has been sponsored by a local merchant or individual, and tags carry cash prizes ranging from $50 to $10,000. The rodeo, being conducted by the Weiss Lake Improvement Association, will run Feb. 1 through April 15. A highlight new to this year’s event is the One Day Crappie Champion Tournament, which will be held March 31. Guaranteed payout for first place is $2,500, and Big Fish will award $1,000 in this 100-percent payback event. There will be a free fish fry at the weigh-ins. For more information, visit www.weisslakeimprovementassociation.org.

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UNDER THE SEA

Speargun Basics

ike enthusiasts of any sport, if you stay with spearfishing long enough, you become intimately familiar with every detail of your equipment. Here’s an overview of what a newbie might want to know before buying that first speargun. Most spearguns are powered by bands, normally between one and three bands. There are two main types. The American style is recognized by the wood stock and is durable, sturdy and easy to load. The Eurogun style has a tubular shaped barrel, rear handle, and a thinner shaft well suited for freediving and smaller fish. In either case, spearguns are equipped with a trigger mechanism. The back end of the shaft engages into the trigger mechanism. Once the bands are loaded, the trigger is pulled and the shaft flies out due to the pulling load of the bands. You do not want to overload a gun by putting more bands than what it’s designed for as it could make the gun inaccurate or unsafe. Most spearguns now include a reel. This is especially needed if freediving and/or spearing larger fish, so the gun is not yanked out of your hands. If spearing a very large fish such as a tuna, which could spool your line in a matter of seconds, a line and float are required so the diver can pull it in from the surface. Shafts come in different lengths and diameters to match the gun, and spearos look for the perfect shaft—one that will not bend, not rust, fly straight in the water, and with a barb that will hold the fish securely. It’s wise to always carry a spare shaft or two on the boat, in case a shaft gets bent or lost. Like shafts, the bands are also replaced periodically, and it’s a good idea to carry spares in case one breaks. When bands get old, they start to get crack lines, or the wishbones can begin to fray, so it’s best to replace them before one snaps. There’s a wider variety of speargun brands than ever on the

market. These include: Wong, AB Biller, Riffe, Hammerhead, Cressi, SEAC, Mares, Rob Allen, Koah, Mako, JBL and more. If you want help selecting your first gun, see if you can find a mentor to help you select one that matches local conditions. Dive shops that specialize in spearfishing can also help. These include Austin’s in Miami, Fla.; Freedivers in Palm Beach, Fla.; James & Josephs in San Diego, Cali.; Freedive Shop in Sacramento, Cali.; and others. There are also Sheri Daye descends with a Wong speargun. custom gun builders who will work with you directly, give you advice, and design a gun to your specs—such as Wong Spearguns from Hawaii or Sea Sniper from California. Good luck and happy hunting! Sheri is a world-record holder, host of Speargun Hunter, and producer of “The Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo” in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Follow “Sheri Daye” and “The Blue Wild” on Facebook and Instagram.

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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT OUTDOOR EDGE REEL-FLEX

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FEBRUARY 2018

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

1/17/18 5:07 PM

hft_coa

SUPER COUPON

800+ Stores Nationwide • HarborFreight.com

SUPER COUPON

SUPER COUPON Customer Rating

21 GALLON, 2.5 HP, 125 PSI 4000 MAX. STARTING/ VERTICAL OIL-LUBE 3200 RUNNING WATTS AIR COMPRESSOR 6.5 HP (212 CC) GAS GENERATOR • Air delivery: 5.8 CFM @ 40 PSI, 4.7 CFM @ 90 PSI

Customer Rating $

COMPARE TO

HUSKY

219

MODEL: C201H

• GFCI outlets

NOW

$1 49

SAVE $69

NOW

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16999

ITEM 69091/61454/62803/63635/67847 shown

SAVE 1709

Wheel kit sold separately.

2 8 99 $$2 $

COMPARE TO

HONDA

NOW

$129 $

149

COMPARE TO $

SNAP-ON

$799 9 $

Customer Rating Cu ITEM 62891

524

$ 33 BRIGGS & MODEL: 20600 STRATTON ITEM 63255/63254 shown

MODEL: MG725

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

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Customer Rating

• 3-1/2 pumps lifts most vehicles • Lifts from 3-1/2" to 14-1/8" • Lightweight 34 lbs.

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9999

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ITEM 93454/69054 63395/62603 shown COMPARE TO $

ITEM 68053/62160 62496/62516/60569 shown

415

GRIZZLY

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$129 SAVE $ $285

159

LB. ELECTRIC WINCH x 30" TWO SHELF STEEL 12,000 REMOTE CONTROL SERVICE CART WITH AND AUTOMATIC BRAKE • 220 lb. capacity

ARCAN

5999

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ITEM 60390/5107 shown

Model 3800

3999

COMPARE TO

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124

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6999 SAVE 57%

COMPARE TO $

WARN

69999 SAVE $400

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ITEM 63927

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

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ITEM 61899/63095/63096/63098/63097/93888 shown

$ $

MODEL: HG1300

1499

ITEM 62340/62546 63104/96289 shown

LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

RENEWABLE ENERGY, ANYWHERE

Customer Rating

SUNFORCE

325

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ITEM 63585

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LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

*Original coupon only. No use on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase or without original receipt. Valid through 6/1/18.

CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 25 hft_coastalangler_0218_M-REG130505.indd 1

7 FT. 4" x 9 FT. 6" ALL PURPOSE WEATHER RESISTANT TARP

ITEM 62281 61637 shown

Customer Rating

NOW

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$ 99

$ 58

COMPARE TO

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ITEM 69249/69115/69137 69129/69121/877 shown

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LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

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LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

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1099

1500 WATT DUAL 100 WATT SOLAR PANEL KIT TEMPERATURE HEAT GUN (572°/1112°)

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LIMIT 6 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

$79 9

$ 43 BUFFALO TOOLS MODEL: HDFDOLLY COMPARE TO

ITEM 64046/64045 63770 shown

$999

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NOW

Case contents and locks not included.

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MODEL: DW1369

18" x 12" MOVER'S DOLLY

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Customer Rating

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• 1000 lb. capacity

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ITEM 60581/60653 shown

LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

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$29

Customer Rating

99 $39999

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

NOW

$2999

• Weighs 86.4 lbs. • 21" L x 10-1/8" H

29 PIECE TITANIUM DRILL BIT SET

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20599

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Customer Rating 2/10/50 AMP, 12 VOLT

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LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

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$2 99 9 $2999 9

COMPARE TO SHELTER LOGIC

ITEM 63054/62858 shown

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

Battle Tested

$9 99 9 $12999

Customer Rating ITEM 69780 41005 shown

60%

LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

NOW

SUPER COUPON

10 FT. x 20 FT. PORTABLE CAR CANOPY NOW

Customer Rating

SUPER COUPON

COMPARE TO

2599

NOW

Tools sold separately.

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

Customer Rating 16"

Customer Rating

$5 99 9 $7999

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, safes, saw mills, storage cabinets, chests or carts, trailers, trenchers, welders, Admiral, Ames, Bauer, Cobra, CoverPro, Daytona, Earthquake, Fischer, Hercules, Icon, Jupiter, Lynxx, Poulan, Predator, Tailgator, Viking, Vulcan, Zurich. Not valid on prior purchases. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/1/18.

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

60" HARDWOOD WORKBENCH WITH 4 DRAWERS

RAPID PUMP® 1.5 TON ALUMINUM RACING JACK

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SUPER COUPON

Customer Rating

MODEL: 887400

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• Height range: COMPARE TO 12-1/2" to 24" REESE SAVE $ 99

LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

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PROELITE

ANY SINGLE ITEM

$ 99

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$1 7

9999

COMPARE TO

ITEM 63358 63925/63363 shown

179

COMPARE TO

SAVE $394

• 12" x 12" • Non-Abrasive

1000 LB. CAPACITY SWING-BACK TRAILER JACK NOW

• Adjustable spray nozzle

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SUPER COUPON

1/2" COMPOSITE PRO 1750 PSI ELECTRIC EXTREME TORQUE PRESSURE WASHER AIR IMPACT WRENCH • 1.3 GPM

NOW

ANY PURCHASE

WITH

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 6/1/18. Limit one FREE GIFT coupon per customer per day.

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

SUPER COUPON

• Weighs 4.4 lbs.

1,999

MODEL: EM4000SX

ITEM 69676/69729/63080/63079 shown ITEM 69728/63090/63089, CALIFORNIA ONLY

LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

TORQUE 1190 FT. LBS. BOLT BREAKAWAY

FREE

33999

20% OFF

SUPER COUPON

TYPE SAE

42304 shown

ITEM 69043/63282/42304

METRIC 42305/69044/63171 LIFETIME WARRANTY

COMPARE TO

HUSKY

1797

MODEL: HCW10PCSAE

SAVE 66%

Customer Rating

LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

FEBRUARY 2018

NATIONAL

At Harbor Freight Tools, the “Compare to” price means that the specified comparison, which is an item with the same or similar function, was advertised for sale at or above the “Compare to” price by another national retailer in the U.S. within the past 90 days. Prices advertised by others may vary by location. No other meaning of “Compare to” should be implied. For more information, go to HarborFreight.com or see store associate.

1/17/18 1/3/18 5:07 2:12 PM

SUZUKI MAKES IT EASY AS

1-2-3

1. Six Years of Protection at no extra charge on all new outboards 25 to 350 HP.

2. SEL

These are limited time offers. See your participating Suzuki Marine dealer for all the details or visit www.suzukimarine.com.

N SO S NG ARD AVI TBO T S I OU TANUZUK INSECT S

Instant Savings of up to $800 on select models. See your dealer for details.

3. Rates as low as 5.99% on new Suzuki outboards (OAC).*

REPOWER FINANCE

Gimme Six Extended Protection promo is applicable to new Suzuki Outboard Motors from 25 to 350 HP in inventory which are sold and delivered to buyer between 01/01/18 and 03/31/18 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. Instant Savings apply to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki Outboard Motors made between 01/01/18 and 03/31/18. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine.com. Customer and participating Dealer must fill out the appropriate form at time of sale. Instant Savings will be applied against the original dealer invoice (Suzuki will credit Dealer parts account). 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 01/01/18 and 03/31/18. “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. © 2018 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.

NATIONAL

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FEBRUARY 2018

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