The Angler Video Magazine | February 2024 Edition

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THERE ARE STORIES TO TELL B E L O W T H E S U R FA C E

RUN THE WATER™

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YAMAHABOATS.COM

©2023 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.

YAMAHA'S 22 FT FSH SERIES: FAN FAVORITES FOR FISH & PLAY

Y

amaha’s 22 FT FSH boat series has become a fan favorite amongst anglers new and old to the trade. Building upon the success of Yamaha's versatile 21-foot center console line that it replaced, there are three separate 22-foot FSH® models that come with Yamaha’s innovative center console technology and features.

This series begins with the value-minded 220 FSH Sport powered by twin 3-cylinder, 4-stroke TR-1 HO (High Output) engines.

Moving up the line is the feature-rich 222 FSH Sport, and the premium 222 FSH Sport E being the pinnacle of the series. Offering sleek lines, agile handling, and superb performance, the 222 Series center console boats are big, with the all-new twin 1.9L HO Yamaha Marine Engines for a quicker and smoother acceleration.

All three models come with a fabric or fiberglass-molded T-Top with four "rocket launcher" rod holders. The spacious 22-foot platform continues Yamaha's trend toward contemporary design with its deep cockpit and great freeboard, enabling a spacious interior and large bow and cockpit areas.

The center console is nicely finished with plenty of room for Yamaha's Connext® 5-inch touchscreen that controls the boat's entertainment and vital system functions, a glass windshield, stainless steel steering wheel, a locking glove box, and a 9-inch Simrad® marine electronics system. All three models flaunt wireless-charging phone mounts to ensure everyone stays connected when it matters most.

There's nothing better than hanging out at a favorite cove listening to a great summer playlist. Yamaha has you covered here with its a Hertz® premium sound system that comes

standard on the 222 FSH Sport E. This marine sound system comes with a Hertz® head unit, four deck speakers, and two speakers in the color-matched hardtop.

And all three 22’ FSH models come standard with mounts for optional swim-up seats. At anchor, two removable seats can be attached to the stern. These seats sit just below the water's surface, providingcomfortable inwater seating facing the transom of the boat.

And since the reboarding ladder is located between both seat positions, egress onto the swim platform is a breeze.

Ultimately, Yamaha’s 22’ FSH models have set the standard in versatile luxury, while continuing to keep the end consumer in mind with its plethora of convenient amenities.

22 FT FSH Series Fishing Amenities for Anglers Understanding that fishing is the heart and soul of the 22 FT FSH product line, anglers around the globe have the below features to look forward to when purchasing a Yamaha 22FT FSH series boat: • Storage for eight rods under the gunwales • Storage for six rods on the side of the console • Aerated 26-gal stern livewell • Simrad® multi-function display • Jet Wash® washdown system

For more information on Yamaha’s 22FT FSH boats, visit

www.yamahaboats.com

IGFA APPROVES NEW WORLD RECORDS T

he International Game Fish Association (IGFA) is a conservation and angling organization that maintains the world’s largest database of record fish. With submissions from around the world and numerous categories for records of hundreds of species, IGFA tracks the largest fish caught by anglers.

Here are some impressive and recently approved new IGFA records:

Foster’s Flathead Catfish

Mark Alexander Foster set the new IGFA Men’s 24-kg (50-lb) Line Class World Record for flathead catfish with this impressive 22.03-kilogram (48-pound, 9-ounce) fish caught on Oct. 9, 2023, while fishing the Ohio River in West Virginia. Foster was fishing cut bait on the bottom when the record catfish hit. After a 10-minute fight, Foster landed the fish and quickly documented it, before releasing it alive.

William’s Snubnose Pompano

Craig Williams landed this 3.32-kilogram (7-pound 5-ounce) snubnose pompano on Aug. 9, 2023, to set the new IGFA Men’s 3-kg (6-lb) Tippet Class Record for the species. Craig was fishing the inshore flats of Dampier, Australia, when this record fish took a crab imitation fly. After a tense 15-minute fight, Craig was able to successfully land and document the fish, before safely releasing it.

Salles’ Speckled Peacock

On Sept. 9, 2023, Pamela Wendhausen Salles was fly fishing the Rio Marie in Brazil when she caught and released this incredible 8.73-kilogram (19-pound, 4-ounce) speckled peacock after it crushed the baitfish pattern fly she was casting. With this impressive catch, Pamela set the new IGFA Women’s 10-kg (20-lb) Tippet Class World Record for the species, which she released safely into the waters of the Rio Marie after properly documenting the record claim.

Beuter’s Atlantic Bigeye Tuna

On Oct. 1, 2023, Andrea Beuter was fishing out of Horta, Azores, Portugal, when she landed this massive 132.50-kilogram (292-pound, 1-ounce) Atlantic bigeye tuna to set the new IGFA Women’s 24-kg (50-lb) Line Class World Record for the species. Beuter was fishing aboard the Sensei captained by Diogo Pavia, and she boated the record bigeye after a grueling 1-hour, 40-minute fight. Andrea’s impressive catch tops the previous record by nearly 10 pounds.

Barnes’ Landlocked Striped Bass

Jackson Barnes was fishing the Caney Fork River in Silver Point, Tennessee, on Sept. 9, 2023, when he landed this 107-centimeter landlocked striped bass to set the new IGFA All-Tackle Length Fly World Record for the species. The record striper struck a streamer fly and tops the previous record by 16 centimeters! After recording the length on his official IGFA Measuring Device, Jackson was able to release the fish safely.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF RIO COLORADO LODGE

ING S A H C

KINGS

By A. deGruchy

I

slamorada... they call it the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” and trust me, it lives up to the hype. Every year, people travel from all over the world to this gem and gear up for one of their ultimate bucket-list fish, the notorious “Silver King.”

Hooking a tarpon is like a dance with a silver giant. The first strike feels like an electric shock, sending pure adrenaline through your veins. Then, bam! The tarpon puts on a show, soaring into the air with moves like no other. It’s a show that leaves even the most seasoned anglers wide-eyed. Those silver kings? They’re not just strong; they’re the rockstars of Islamorada.

Now, let’s talk strategy. These tarpon are known for their spontaneity, so patience is your best friend. When it comes to bait, think live mullet or crabs–the kind of irresistible treats that tarpon just can’t resist. Toss your bait in front of where you think they could be, let it drift back in the current, and patiently watch the magic unfold. When your line starts to load, get ready for a ride. Keep that tension steady, brace yourself for some serious speed, and be prepared for tarpon acrobatics. It’s like a rollercoaster on water, and trust me, you’ll want to savor every twist and turn. When they jump, it’s important to bow your rod toward them to give them the slack so the hook doesn’t pull out.

As you get closer to that leader touch or face grab, remember, gentle is the name of the game. Tarpon have delicate mouths, and going all WWE on them might end in heartbreak. If you’re going out with a guide, 8

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THE ANGLER VIDEO MAGAZINE

I recommend booking more than one day to give yourself better odds of landing a tarpon. So come late February through March, and the stage will be set for a front-row seat to Islamorada’s Silver King show.

To book a charter, visit www.beansportfishing.com.

SUZUKI MARINE INTRODUCES NATIONAL ‘4-4-2’ SALES AND RECYCLING PROGRAM

S

uzuki Marine USA has unveiled a new national dealer program to help get boaters into fuel-efficient and clean Suzuki 4-stroke outboard technology while properly scrapping/recycling their old two-stroke motors. The program—named “4-4-2” (meaning 4-stroke for 2-stroke)—was introduced at the 2024 Minneapolis Boat Show and will be rolled out nationally in Q1 2024.

Through its 4-4-2 Program, Suzuki Marine will provide additional discount options to the dealer that can be passed along to customers on top of what they give on trade for the engine. To qualify for the program, the dealer must scrap/recycle the 2-stroke outboard engine, and the money the dealer receives from scrap will be donated to an environmental organization of the dealer’s choice. Under the program, dealers can accept in trade any brand or size of 2-stroke outboard, regardless of age or condition.

Over a period of years in the 1990s, outboard manufacturers mostly shifted from 2-stroke engines to 4-stroke technology to meet increasingly stringent EPA air quality regulations. In addition to producing far fewer emissions, 4-stroke outboards were heralded for their ease of use, fuel efficiency and long-term reliability. Even with all these advantages and modern 4-strokes available in all sizes (Suzuki’s 4-stroke lineup goes from 2.5 to 350 horsepower) there is still a surprising number of old, smoky 2-strokes on boats across the country.

“We worked on a pilot program over the summer with our dealer Dan Chesky of Dan's Southside in Minneapolis,” said Brandon Cerka, Suzuki Marine General Manager Sales and Marketing. “He was very successful, and this got us excited about the benefits of expanding the program

nationally to help our dealers move customers into clean burning Suzuki 4-stroke technology—while getting as many old 2-stroke motors off the water as we can,” added Cerka.

Representatives of Suzuki Marine and Dan's Southside met with the Minnesota Sportfishing Foundation Coalition (MN-Fish) during the Minneapolis Boat Show to kick off the 442 program and will be donating a $4,000 donation to MN-Fish Executive Director Mark Holsten for all the 2-stroke outboards converted and scrapped during the pilot period. Suzuki Marine generously matched the initial $4,000 donation to MN-Fish to double the positive impact and give the program strong momentum. “We know this program is going to generate more awareness for our engines and show we’re serious—along with our dealers and customers—about improving the health of our lakes, rivers and oceans,” added Cerka.

Suzuki’s 4-4-2 Program incentives and dealer support apply to the sale of any new Suzuki outboard from 2.5 to 350 horsepower.

Suzuki Marine has led the boating industry with a variety of environmental initiatives, including introducing the only Micro Plastics Collecting Device for outboard motors, partnering with the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) to promote renewable marine fuels to the industry and policy makers, and the ongoing Suzuki CLEAN OCEAN PROJECT, which focuses on cleaning and protecting our planet’s oceans around the world.

To learn more about Suzuki Marine’s full array of outboard motors, contact Suzuki Marine USA headquarters at (813) 687-7200 or visit SuzukiMarine.com.

FLY FISHING 12

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SALTWATER OUTFIT

G

etting started in saltwater fly fishing can seem like an overwhelming task, but it is really uncomplicated.

It’s most important to purchase the right rod and reel for the type of fishing you’ll be doing. The east coast striper fly fisher will require a different outfit than will the west coast surf perch fisher, and the guy interested in catching redfish in the Louisiana marsh will have a different rig than the angler casting to bonito off a jetty in southern California. Here are my suggestions: The Rod Choose a 7- or 8-weight rod. This rod is the perfect starter rod for the beginning saltwater fly fisher, heavy enough to punch a saltwater fly into a stiff wind, yet light enough to cast all day. Technically, you can use a heavier trout rod, but ideally

FEBRUARY 2024

you want to use a saltwater rod because not only is it made out of materials that can handle the rugged salt water and sand but the actual construction of the rod is built for heartier conditions as well.

The Reel A good direct-drive reel that can hold a minimum of 200 yards of 30-pound Dacron backing will work very well in most saltwater fly fishing situations. Currently, fly reels designed for saltwater fishing are more than adequate in handling fish up to 50 pounds. To save you the price of an extra reel, buy an extra spool for your reel to hold your shooting head (explained below).

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VIDEO

Fly Lines This is where it can get complicated, but fear not, it really is not that involved. Here is what you’ll need: 1) A basic weight-forward (WF) floating line matched to the weight of your fly rod.

The WF floating line is a great all-around fly line for sight casting in shallow water.

Don’t get confused by all the marketing of “Saltwater Taper,” “Bonefish Taper” and “Redfish Taper.” All these lines are suitable for the expert, but not for the beginner.

2) A weighted shooting head. These lines have combined the weighted front taper and the intermediate running line and are great for sub-surface fishing or fishing rip currents from the beach. When fish are feeding below the surface, the shooting head will keep your fly in the hit zone longer. I would choose a 250 to 300 grain. The grain weight relates to the sink rate of the fly line, so a 250- to 300-grain line will sink between 5 and 8 inches per second. This is plenty of sink rate to get you down to subsurface feeding fish.

A basic, solid rod, reel and line combo will ensure you get the most enjoyment out of saltwater fly fishing and prepare you for the next step.

LIFE IS BETTER IN A C-HAWK

Visit www.CHawkBoats.net to Find a Dealer Near You.

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FEBRUARY 2024

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Life on the Water... emeraldcoastgetaways.com

Waterfront • Boat Dock Pool • Hot Tub • Pet Friendly!

Waterfront 5/3 Home Sleeps 12!

Located on Deep Water Canal, Room for 2+ Boats!

Life on the Water is the perfect vacation home for the multi-family desiring waterfront accommodations with multiple living areas.

What You’ll Love:

New Property! All New Furniture and Amenities Dec. 2022!

Distance to Beach: Car 5.7 mile, 0.5 miles Boat.

Located on the Gulf Breeze FL peninsula, on a hidden deep water canal.

Boat Ramp 1 mile away, 2 min to open water, 2 marinas with fuel within a 5 min boat ride.

120 ft. of brand new dockage, fish cleaning station, power and water.

Ultimate outdoor space featuring a pool, hot tub, patio areas with grills, and open-air shower.

The Ultimate Vacation Home for Anglers B e it red snapper season, Blue Angels air shows, or everyday exploration of the miles of Pensacola Beach just three miles away, fishing is a huge part of Emerald Coast Getaways’ Life on the Water vacation rental, and the creation of this property kept that in mind for the discriminating angler and boater.

Located on the Gulf Breeze peninsula between Pensacola Beach and Pensacola, Life on the Water is situated on a deep water canal, with 120 ft. of brand new dockage plus 30 feet under boat house cover, there’s plenty of protected room for two+ boats.

Your boat will be secure, protected from open bay beatings, yet less than two minutes to open water and three miles to Flounders, Pensacola beaches, and the various restaurants accessed via boat.

The property has two driveways, so trailer parking is available, with the Oriole Beach Boat Ramp one mile away, and two marinas with fuel within a five minute boat ride. Life on the Water also boasts a custom fishing cleaning station, power and water for the boats, and there’s even a lower dock landing for the kayaker and paddle boarder. Just out the canal are miles of grass flats with great fishing for speckled trout and redfish. There’s even a pinfish trap on the dock for bait!

If you decide not to trailer your boat, rent a boat! Pensacola Pontoons will deliver a boat right to our dock. Just say when and they will get it delivered. Lets get you on the water!

Guests will fall in love with the ultimate outdoor space featuring

a pet friendly fenced-in yard (pet fee does apply), upstairs and downstairs entertainment decks, 2 gas grills and private pool overlooking the water.

From the coastal decor to the amazing outdoor spaces, this 3,143 sq. ft, 5 bedroom/3 bath home is sure to impress. Just released to the market, this multi-level home accommodates 12 guests comfortably allowing plenty of space for everyone. This kitchen is well stocked and fit for a chef, comes complete with the stainless-steel appliances, Calphalon cookware and beautiful quartz counter tops. The open concept design allows the perfect space to interact with family and friends.

No detail was overlooked in the design and décor, a stately home in a charming neighborhood, making this an unforgettable vacation location! Life on the Water will become your families hidden gem. We truly look forward to hosting your stay!

www.emeraldcoastgetaways.com

By CAM Staff

PHOTO COURTESY OF CAPT. QUINLYN HADDON

TIPS FOR TRIPLETAIL

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IT: TOMMY LA

DO

• On Approach: Come at your quarry from down-current and cast well past it so that your bait drifts back in front of its nose. If that cork starts to dance, give it a few seconds before coming tight. Tripletail have small, hard mouths and you want to be sure the fish has taken the bait.

• Fish Small Baits: The reason a tripletail is hanging out on that marker is to eat the small crabs and shrimp that live there. They’re used to small food and have small mouths, which is why they’ll sometimes reject big shrimp. Pitch small or medium shrimp to them or small baitfish and lures no longer than about 2.5 inches.

• Stick With Them: If a tripletail spooks or goes down, it usually isn’t going far. Try drifting an unweighted bait on a longer 4- or 5-foot leader that will get down deeper on a long drift past your structure.

If that doesn’t work, go hit your next mark and come back later. There’s a good chance the fish will be sunbathing happily on the surface when you return.

PHOTO CRED

I

t will soon be the time of year when everyone’s favorite oddball, the tripletail, starts moving in closer to shore to hang out on structure or free-floating debris. Whether you actively sight fish them by running a line of traps and markers or if you just happen to see one while pursuing something else, here are a few tips to help you hook and land more tripletail.

• Cruise Carefully: Floating at the surface and doing its best to imitate a garbage bag, a tripletail is easy to spot once you develop an eye for it. Run a trap line on plane with a dedicated spotter and you can cover water quickly to locate “trips.” However, you’ll put fish down if you wake them too hard.

Stay at least 30 feet off a trap line or channel markers while prospecting. When you spot a fish, give it a few minutes to settle and come back to the surface while you bring the boat around to approach with the trolling motor. A tripletail at ease on the surface is an easy fish to target.

• Consider Your Eyewear: Obviously, polarized glasses are a must when sight fishing anything. The color of your lenses matters, too. It’s worth investing in a couple of good pairs so you can switch out according to conditions. Gray or blue works best in clear water. In dingy water, go with copper or rose lenses.

• Stay Rigged and Ready: If you’re targeting trout, redfish or whatever, keep a tripletail rig on hand and keep an eye out for them when you’re running to a new spot. A good basic rig is a popping cork with a short 20-pound fluorocarbon leader of a foot or less and a 2/0 circle hook. Live shrimp is best, but if you’re fishing artificials, a DOA shrimp or a Gulp! shrimp or crab will also work.

For more tips and tricks, visit

coastalanglermag.com.

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Endless Adventure Awaits.

With more than 60,000 surface acres and 1,300 miles of shoreline, Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees is one of the biggest outdoor destinations in Oklahoma. Located on the Grand (Neosho) River, the lake is hugely popular with boaters, fishermen, campers and anyone else who loves spending time in the great outdoors.

Anglers are sure to have a blast searching for largemouth bass, white bass, crappie, channel catfish, bluegill and the rare paddlefish on Grand Lake waters. And Grand Lake’s shores are lined with so many unique attractions, state parks and casinos that seeing everything in one trip is next to impossible. There’s truly something for everyone to love in the Grand Lake Area!

HOME OF THE 2024 BASSMASTER CLASSIC! Discover all the fun things to see and do in the Grand Lake Area as well as places to stay, places to eat, festivals and more at www.grandlake.com

GRAND LAKE TO HOST 2024 BASSMASTER CLASSIC

T

he field is set, and the grandest spectacle in bass fishing will be renewed for the 54th time from March 22-24. This year’s Bassmaster Classic will be held on Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees, with weigh-ins and festivities in Tulsa, Okla.

Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees has more than lived up to its name. The 46,500-acre fishery provided some of the grandest moments in the history of the event when Classics were held there in 2013 and 2016. Now the picturesque reservoir located in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains will add to that grand lore when it again plays host the Super Bowl of Bass Fishing.

As with past Classics held in Tulsa, daily weigh-ins will be held at the BOK Center in downtown Tulsa, with the Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo across the street at the Cox Business Convention Center. Daily takeoffs will be held about 90 miles away at the Wolf Creek Park and Boating Facility on Grand Lake.

During the first Tulsa Classic in 2013, former Elite Series pro Cliff Pace of Mississippi claimed a wire-to-wire victory during a frigid event when icy precipitation tested the toughness of the 53-angler field. In 2016, local favorite Jason Christie led Days 1 and 2 and seemed poised to earn his first Classic trophy until fellow Oklahoma pro Edwin Evers caught a five-bass limit that weighed 29 pounds, 3 ounces to claim a dramatic come-from-behind win.

“The Grand River Dam Authority is excited

B.A.S.S. PHOTO BY ANDY CRAWFORD

to see the Bassmaster Classic make its return to Grand Lake in 2024,” said GRDA President and CEO Dan Sullivan. “Not only will the event provide a tremendous economic benefit to the region but it will once again showcase Grand Lake to interested audiences across the country.

“GRDA places a high priority on caring for the natural resources under its control, and being a three-time host of the Bassmaster Classic reinforces Grand’s reputation as one of the nation’s top fisheries.”

On last year’s list of 100 Best Bass Lakes

by Bassmaster Magazine, Grand Lake ranked

17th in the Central Division. That marks the 11th straight year that the fishery has ranked in the Top 100.

The field will include 56 anglers competing for a $300,000 first-place prize and a total purse of over $1 million.

“Since its inception, the Classic has been a tournament that changes lives,” said B.A.S.S. Vice President of Tournaments Chris Bowes.

“The payday is great, sure. But the opportunity to refer to yourself as ‘Bassmaster Classic champion’ for the rest of your life — there’s no greater clout in our sport.”

INVADE EARLY SEASON ESTUARIES

By Nick Carter

triped bass are king along the crags and marshes of the Massachusetts North Shore, and each year around the first week of May something very interesting takes place. They call it the early season in this stretch of coastline north of Boston, and it can bring on some of the fastest action of the year.

All the baitfish—the herring, the sand eels, the silversides and bunker—push into the estuaries in search of warmer water temperatures. Big schools of striped bass move in with them. It leads to classic bass blitzes, when pods of stripers push bait up to boil on the surface as birds hammer them from above.

You can bet Matt Zimmerman, owner of Back Eddy Charters out of Beverly, Mass., will be there in the middle of the melee standing in the water waving a stick in the air.

“I fly fish pretty much everywhere for everything, but it’s better early season,” he said. “You can use a slower presentation, mimic smaller baits, and cover the water column a lot better with a fly.”

Historically, the pattern produced 40-fish days of smaller 14- to 26-inch stripers, known as “schoolies.”

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However, recent years have seen an uptick in larger 26- to 30-inch fish in the early season.

“That’s great for fishing, but it’s not a great sign for the fishery,” Zimmerman said.

If you haven’t heard, fisheries managers are scrambling to prop up Atlantic striper populations. Since 2019, striper reproduction on the Eastern Seaboard has been dismal due to weather conditions.

Emergency action reduced the recreational limit to one fish in a slot limit from 28 to 31 inches, and more restrictive measures may be on the horizon.

“The regs? I’m all catch and release, so it hasn’t impacted me too much,” Zimmerman

said. “They’re trying to get the stocks up, but most of what we’re seeing is slot fish and up.”

That’s not necessarily the case in the early season, which Zimmerman said is a time when you can just park the truck and wade in.

“Most of the time I fish from a boat,” he said. “But early season, when there’s lots of fish in the river, it’s easier and you can catch more fish wading from shore.”

Zimmerman fishes 5- to 8-weight rods and leaders of straight 20- or 30-pound monofilament. Intermediate sinking lines allow for good depth control, and a handful of Clousers and Deceivers are all you need.

Zimmerman suggested 4- to 6-inch patterns and colors of green/white, yellow/white and gray/white.

The fishing is best on the last three hours of an outgoing tide or the first couple hours of an incoming tide, when the bait moves around and incites feeding activity. This river bite is Zimmerman’s go-to pattern for about a month, after which he’ll move out to the beaches and rocky islands, where huge stripers herd bait and slam 6- to 8-inch Hollow Fleyes.

Find Matt Zimmerman on Instagram @backeddycharters.

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REGISTER NOW!! WWW.GIANTBASSOPEN.COM

BILL DANCE GIANT BASS OPEN Kicks Off at Pickwick Feb. 10-11

W

hen legendary angler Bill Dance partnered with his home state of Tennessee on the $15 million Bill Dance Signature Lakes program, the idea was to improve and promote incredible fishing opportunities across the state. Part of the promotional side of the campaign is a tournament series known as the Bill Dance Signature Lakes Giant Bass Open.

Bill Dance Giant Bass Open events will be held at five of Tennessee’s best bass lakes in 2024, and the series will culminate with a championship tournament with a date and location to be determined. The long-awaited first stop on this year’s circuit is Feb. 10-11 at Pickwick Landing State Park on Pickwick Lake.

Pickwick is renowned across the region as arguably the South’s best smallmouth bass lake. It also boasts some very good fishing for largemouth bass, which is probably what most anglers will target under the tournament’s format. The event will pay out to eight places for one big bass weighed per angler per hour over the two-day event.

If you’re the angler who finds a pod of good largemouths herding bait in a current eddy, those payouts could add up very quickly. There’s a top hourly prize of $1,000 for the largest bass weighed each hour of the tournament from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Also, there’s a $5,000 prize for the biggest bass of the event, which could become very competitive with fish feeding up heavily ahead of Pickwick’s spring spawn.

The whole family can get in on the action, too. There are youth and adult divisions, with a separate pay-out schedule for kids, and up to three registered anglers can fish from the same boat. In

the youth division, the top hourly weight will be awarded $500, with payouts to eight places. The youth big bass of the tournament pays $1,500.

It’s a fun and action-packed format that provides plenty of chances for everyone to win, and since it’s an amateur open event, you and the family won’t be fishing against professional anglers or guides. You can bet there will be some talented local ringers, though. With entry fees of $140 per day or $200 for two days for adults, it’s an inexpensive weekend of fun with the potential to win big. Youth entry fees are $70 per day or $100 for both days.

Pickwick Landing State Park is the perfect

place to host such an event. Just south of the Pickwick Dam, the boat ramp is a quick ride to some of the best fishing on the lake. There are lodging options at the state park from camping to cabins to the newly renovated lodge, as well as restaurants and plenty of other activities after the fishing day ends.

For more information and to register, visit

www.giantbassopen.com

265 Moody Farm Road, Maggie Valley, NC (828) 926-3761 · info@peppertreemv.com

Welcome To Peppertree Maggie Valley

P

eppertree Maggie Valley was developed in 1981 as one of the mountains premier timeshare vacation resorts. Our 40 two bedroom condos look out over the beautiful Maggie Valley Club Golf Course and beyond to the Great Smoky Mountains that surround the valley.

Owners and renters (from Peppertree Maggie Valley) may enjoy the amenities of the Maggie Valley Club including golf for two people during their stay. The many area attractions are a short drive from the resort.

These include the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Cherokee Indian Reservation, Harrah’s Casino, and America’s largest private dwelling house, the Biltmore Estate, in Asheville.

Peppertree is affiliated with both Resort Condominiums International (RCI) and Interval International (II) for any who may want to exchange in from another resort and we have rentals and some re-sales available.

A three-mile section of Jonathan Creek has been

classified as the Maggie Valley Mountain Heritage Trout Water. It is hatchery supported and is subject to restrictions that have been established by the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. This area provides convenient fishing opportunities to visitors of Maggie Valley. Fishing licenses can be purchased online at www.ncwildlife.org or by phone at (888) 248-6834.

A 3-day license costs $11 for residents & nonresidents age 16 or older and is valid only for waters designated as Mountain Heritage Trout Waters.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has approximately 2,900 miles of streams and provides a great opportunity for fishing, as well. Fishing is allowed year-round from 30 minutes before official sunrise to 30 minutes after official sunset. A fishing license or permit is required from either Tennessee or North Carolina. For more information including restrictions and limits visit Fishing in Great Smoky Mountains.

www.PepperTreeMV.com

PORTABLE PURGING SYSTEM

Power Purge Jr. The easy way to 100% purge air out of BayStar and SeaStar hydraulic steering systems. Reduce installation and warranty costs while enhancing the quality of the boat to the end user. A typical manual fill and purge takes the average experienced installer or service technician about 30 minutes per boat – by using the Dometic Power Purge Jr. this can be reduced to 10 minutes or less.

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DOMETIC POWER PURGE JR.

Bleed SeaStar Hydraulic Steering Systems with Ease

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xperienced boaters know that even a tiny bit of air in a vessel’s hydraulic steering system can compromise performance, response and steering effort. However, the process of correctly bleeding the system— whether performing maintenance or installing new hydraulic steering on a boat—could be messy and challenging to do correctly. Not to mention that it is a two-person job, with one at the helm and one back at the steering cylinder.

Marine steering leader Dometic has forever solved this problem with its Power Purge Jr., a self-contained system that makes it easy for one person to fill and bleed 100 percent of the air out of any SeaStar hydraulic steering system in 10 minutes or less.

This system comes in its own sturdy carrying case and includes a blue helm hose, clear cylinder hose, helm adapter and battery connectors. All that’s required from the boater

is a wrench to open the bleeder valves and 5 quarts of SeaStar hydraulic fluid.

This system uses the boat’s battery power to quickly fill the entire system with fluid and fully remove even the smallest air bubbles— helping boaters get back on the water fast.

WWW.DOMETIC.COM

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RESCUE AT SEA

OFF VENICE, LOUISIANA

By Capt. Quinlyn Haddon

E

arly in my career, I fished out of Venice, Louisiana. On off days, we fished inshore and roadside, which produced incredible catches like bull reds, 100-pound alligator gar and 70-pound blue cats. It was nothing to complain about, but my heart is always offshore.

The offshore fishing off Venice is topnotch for yellowfin tuna, wahoo, marlin and swordfish, but the gas bill was too much for me to get out there as anything but crew.

One evening, I was invited on an offshore trip and was told I got to plan the route. I ecstatically hit my Hilton’s offshore report to check the salinity chart and decided to hit an overlooked rig called Moxie.

We headed out the next morning, caught bait and arrived at the rig. This rig sits in shallower waters and is a bit off the path for rig hopping,

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so it is often passed by. I was surprised to see another boat when we arrived. The bottom machine lit up with giant marks, and we tossed out our baits.

I was running the deck and focused on the back of the boat, but I kept hearing the captain comment on the other boat. It seemed like they were diving, but they didn’t have a dive flag up.

I heard him say the boat looked to be sitting low in the water. All of a sudden, Capt. Travis Mayeux started screaming, “LINES IN, LINES IN!” I was reeling everything up as quickly as I could when he pushed the boat to full throttle.

I wasn’t sure what was going on until I had the lines secured and I turned around. The motors of the other boat had gone under, and the bow reached for the sky before slipping away. The boat sank in seconds.

By the time we got to the scene, most of the flotsam had been carried away by the currents.

We rescued the spearfishermen, one Pelican

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case and a fish bag.

We ended our trip and took the spearfishers back to the dock. Their wallets and keys sank offshore, so they called Plaquemines Parish Sheriff ’s Office to get into their truck. The deputy ran their names, and one of them had an outstanding warrant. He was taken to jail for the weekend. It was a rough day for those guys, but it could have been much worse.

Fishing offshore oil rigs provides a false sense of security. You are still very much offshore even though you are near a structure. The crew on those rigs are not lifeguards and are not paying attention to you. Considering how quickly the debris dispersed and how unfished that rig was, those fellas were very lucky we were there that day.

Capt. Quinlyn Haddon guides with Sweet E’nuf Charters, out of Marathon, Florida Keys. Contact her at (504) 920-6342, captainquinlyn.com or @captainquinlyn.

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High Performance Fishing Kayak You Can Paddle Or Motor Rugged inflatable fishing kayak ready to take on hooks, fins & rocks. Tough, fast, portable, and built especially for anglers. Paddle or motor to the fish, quickly & easily.

12’6” Angler 385fta holds 2 people / 635 lbs. Packs small to fit in car trunk, SUV, RV, or small plane. Multiple seating / motor options available.

FastTrack ™ Angler 385fta

Bixpy® Electric Motor Option

New 3 lb. Bixpy® J-2 Electric Motor attaches to skeg base for silent stealth motoring. Great as a paddle assist or trolling.

Shown with optional accessories.

5 packages available.

For more info Dept. C2WW4B

Everything An Angler Needs:

Sea Eagle FastTrack Angler 385fta ®

™

T

ough, portable, reliable, and versatile – four words to describe the patented, inflatable FastTrack™ Angler 385fta for one or two.

Tough: made of 1000 denier reinforced PVC with double layers on the tubes and bottom for extra protection.

Portable: Packs to just 36”x15”x20” to fit in any trunk, RV, or truck bed.

Reliable: Inflates in minutes to 12’6” x 36” and gets you where the fish are faster and smoother than other kayaks.

Versatile: Paddle or motor; fits 1 or 2 anglers, with inflatable seats, Sea Eagle Tall Back Seats or a swivel seat. Great for lakes, ponds, bays, rivers...

Packed with built-in features that take this fishing kayak from a 9 to a perfect 10 – two 36” fish rulers, 4 rod holders, spray skirts with storage for hooks, lures and tools, removable high-pressure drop-stitch floor, non-slip EVA foam floor pad, rigid inflatable keel and much more – there’s just no going wrong with a Sea Eagle® FastTrack™ Angler 385fta.

From their start back in 1968, Sea Eagle® has offered reliable, durable and versatile inflatable kayaks and boats. In recent years, adding models made specifically for fishing has proven a win for Sea Eagle® and for anglers. The FastTrack™ Angler 385fta made it’s debut almost 10 years ago and has proven to be a winner ever since.

Because the Angler is inflatable, you can take

it anywhere. It packs down to just 36” x 10” x 20” so you can fish a local bay or head off to a remote lake for a few days of camping and fishing. The Angler is just 45 lbs. making it easy for 1 or 2 to carry. Inflation takes just 7 minutes so you can easily inflate it at the water or at home and car top it.

The patented rigid inflatable keel has sharp bow and stern molds, allowing the keel to slice through the water. It also provides buoyancy that lifts the kayak over waves improving speed.

Paired with the removable skeg that reduces yawing and keeps you on track, anglers can paddle up to 5 mph to quickly get to the fish.

The FastTrack™ Angler can even be equipped with an electric motor. An optional motor mount is available to use with a traditional trolling motor like a Watersnake® Asp T24 or Venom

SX34. Since the skeg is removable, an electric motor such as the Bixpy® J-2 can easily slide into the skeg slot and move you along effortlessly as you fish or it can be used as a paddle assist.

With built-in rod holders, storage for hooks, lures and tools and two 36” fish rulers, anglers will have everything they need at arms length.

The high-pressure inflatable floor with EVA foam floor pad gives anglers a rigid, stable platform to stand up on for casting and reeling in fish. Unless you don’t like the color green, there’s really nothing not to love about the FastTrack™ Angler 385fta.

LEARN MORE AT:

Y

ou don’t need an invitation to have fun in Upcountry South Carolina: Come kayak crys-tal blue lakes, hike to rushing waterfalls, dig into local cuisine, attend family oriented events and breathe fresh mountain air. But when you hold a South Carolina fishing license, it feels like an official ticket to enjoy the great outdoors.

Fish bite year-round in the lakes, rivers and streams of Upcountry South Carolina, which is located in the state’s northwest corner in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Devils Fork State Park in Salem is a great place to access Lake Jocassee, which holds state records for rainbow trout, brown trout, redeye bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass and yellow perch. Or try your luck at Lake Hartwell, at Lake Hartwell State Park in Fair Play and Sadlers Creek State Park in Anderson, three-time host of the Bassmaster Classic.

The Chattooga River boasts healthy wild trout populations and is also regularly stocked by Oconee County’s Walhalla State Fish Hatchery. The Whitewater River above Lower White-water Falls is another great option for wild trout. Lake Keowee, at Keowee-Toxaway State Park in Pickens County, swims with largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass, crappie, bluegill, yel-low perch, catfish, brown and rainbow trout.

Pick up everything you need—including advice— at local fly shops or book a guided fish-ing trip. Sam Jones, of Jocassee Charters, puts anglers on trophy trout. Buster Green’s Guide Ser-vice reels in stripers, hybrids and bass on Hartwell and Keowee. Chattooga

THE BEST PLACE TO DROP A FISHING LINE

River Fly Shop leads fly fishing trips on the Chattooga and Chauga rivers.

Even if you don’t fish, you can still get on the water. Jocassee Lake Tours offers tours of the lake and of Jocassee Gorges, which National Geographic called a “destination of a Lifetime.”

Some amazing spots can only be reached by boat. Several tours are offered, so you can learn from a naturalist while riding on a pontoon or paddle a kayak through coves and under waterfalls.

Prefer to captain your own boat? There are several rental companies, including Tri-County Boat Rental, on Keowee, Jocassee, Hartwell and other lakes.

If you’d rather be under the water, Jocassee is a world-renowned freshwater diving desti-nation that boasts visibility of more than 50 feet at depth. Lake Jocassee Dive Shop offers lessons and guided trips to see “The Wall,” where a section of mountain was blasted to build the dam, or a 40-foot swim-through wooden sailboat.

From fishing to boating, hiking to camping, biking to bird watching and more, the Up-country’s state parks are a great place to play. Dip into the swimming hole at Oconee State Park. Hike to the tops of Pinnacle and Table Rock mountains at Table Rock State Park.

Explore the 13,000-acre Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area at Caesars Head State Park. Or create your own adventure at any of the Upcountry’s 13 state parks.

Visit UpcountrySC.com to learn more.

SAVOR THE SEASONS in Upcountry South Carolina

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DRIFTING AROUND WITH ARTIFICIALS

the fish. “Livescope” and other advanced electronics are a huge help.

Concentrate your efforts around structure and bait, and keep your GPS on so you can mark every location where you get a bite. This way you can identify and develop productive drifts.

We’re talking about shallow fishing here. It’s very important to be quiet while drifting 15- to 25-foot depths. Kill the motor and the Tim Barefoot radio and even the recorder if you know where you’re at. The recorder sends a “thumping” sound to the bottom that fish can certainly hear. or those stuck on live baits, I’m here to tell you there’s a whole list of inshore and nearshore species that are Don’t stomp your feet moving around on the deck, and close the lids on coolers and hatches quietly. extremely vulnerable to a properly presented jig with carries a tremendous a soft plastic, and I’m not just talking WATCH VIDEO Sound distance through the water about redfish, trout and flounder. All and will spook fish. the snappers, including muttons, and Really, this technique is perfect for even grouper will jump on a jig. kayak anglers because they are stealthy.

There are a ton of soft-plastic If you’re fishing from a boat, I do not options out there, and most will recommend using a trolling motor to produce in some scenario. For me, make these drifts. The trolling motor a tried-and-true baitfish imitation is sends out a distinct signature sound the Zoom Super Fluke. It has a nice of humans and may give these fish body profile, and matched up with “temporary lockjaw.” the proper jig head has a side-toDepending on the area you’re in, side action that can be the difference sharks can be a nuisance. It seems between fishing and catching. It’s also we are constantly having to pay the important how the soft plastic acts tax man. Bull sharks will follow the at rest, especially for the style fishing boat around and wait on you to hook we’re getting ready to talk about. Does something. This is very much a learned the bait sit horizontally, or is it bow or behavior, and we have taught them stern heavy? Real baitfish don’t hang well. out vertically, and neither should your Familiarize yourself with the creel lure when it’s hanging there on the end limit and size limits for the snappers of your line. Big snappers didn’t get to and grouper, because you never know be large by being stupid. what you’ll catch.

On to the fishing. Consider the Go check out EliasVFishing on wind and current and set up a drift over productive bottom, then just float along and jig that plastic. Locate YouTube. He is very effective with this method. and mark areas of live bottom, and or small pieces of structure as For more from Tim Barefoot, go to barefootcatsandtackle.com. they might hold baitfish. If you find the bait, chances are you’ll find

F

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FEBRUARY 14-18 • MIAMIBOATSHOW.COM

WATCH

VIDEO

THINGS YOU HEAR IN A BOAT

By TAM Staff

S

ometimes you just get skunked, and making excuses for it is as intrinsic to fishing as lying about the size of a fish… especially the fish that got away.

Coastal Angler & The Angler ran a Facebook survey asking anglers for excuses they’ve heard to explain a lack of fish.

Responses ranged from classics, like a banana in the boat or not holding your mouth right, to “Freezer is full! Don’t need anymore!”

A few respondents boiled it down to the real reason some anglers are out in the boat in the first place and said they “caught a buzz instead,” which might explain why it was more difficult to catch a fish. However, this is really one of those chicken-or-the-egg scenarios, because “Ran out of beers” was also on the list, and running out of beer is always easier when

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the fish aren’t biting.

“The sun was in my eyes,” “Water was too wet” and “the moon was in a apex” were a few of the more ridiculous responses, because everyone knows the moon doesn’t have an apex; its orbit is not triangular. But we really do feel for the guy who got all geared up, went out and the “dynamite got wet.”

Of course, there were a couple guys who took the opportunity to brag and posted photos of big fish. To those who engage in “loser talk,” those photos must have been like rubbing salt in a wound. It’s hard to justify a platitude like “just glad to be out” when someone’s holding a giant striper or a stringer full of gator trout in your face.

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Several charter captains and guide services chimed in. These folks are professionals at catching fish, and they’re also professional excuse makers. “I’m a guide not a god,” and “If you booked a full day, you would have caught ’em” are standard guide talk. It’s their job to entertain you when the fish aren’t biting, and everyone knows it’s not the client’s fault when there’s still a skunk in the boat after the fifteenth missed hook set.

See all the responses and make your own excuse HERE.

It’s what’s under the surface that counts It is so much more than just bottom paint.

Interlux’s range of fouling control products not only improves your performance by protecting your hull from fouling, they also protect against the spread of invasive species, safeguarding your local waters when exploring new regions, therefore helping you make a difference by looking after the waters that have provided you with enjoyment and freedom for so many years.

Like you, we have a passion for boating. We provide boaters the hull protection they deserve with over 140 years of cutting-edge science, technology and expertise. You can expect only the best from every Interlux yacht paint product, providing you the confidence to explore your world.

Relentless performance for every yacht, everywhere, every time. international-yachtpaint.com

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Swim With The Manatees!

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Family Adventures Begin Here!

Wishing You Were Fishing?

PlantationResortOnCrystalRiver.com Reservations (800) 632-6262 | Hotel (352) 795-4211

WATCH

VIDEO

By Emily Hanzlik

CATCH SOUTH FLORIDA’S EXOTIC

D

own in South Florida, the influx of exotic species is crazy. Most people know about peacock bass and snakeheads, but clown knifefish are a lesserknown exotic that are a blast to catch. You might see these fish rolling on the surface, but they’re tough to catch due to their intelligence.

Clown knifefish are silver in color with black spots along their tail. These fish have a very unique shape that almost resembles the blade of a knife. Their faces are similar to snook or a tarpon, but they have a huge shoulder right behind their eyes.

These fish have a similar texture to freshwater trout, as they have micro scales and a slime coating that makes them smooth to the touch. A fun fact, since their anal fin and tail fin are conjoined, it allows them to undulate and actually swim backward. If you get one boat-side, watch as they back away from the net.

Clown knives are native to southeast Asia.

Their popularity as aquarium fish has led to 46

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their spread because they quickly outgrow most home aquariums and are released. These fish like warm water, and they are bimodal air-breathers, which means they surface to gulp air if the water is too stagnant. This makes them well-suited to the swamps, lakes, canals and backwater rivers of South Florida.

Juveniles school together and hide in roots of plants. When they grow larger, they become solitary but still hunt from the cover of aquatic vegetation.

Clown knifefish spawn in the spring.

Research suggests they prefer three straight days of rain before laying and fertilizing eggs.

When the time is right, the female lays eggs on a root or some other secure surface. The male then tends the eggs. Even after the eggs hatch, the male will guard the fry until they are large enough to be on their own.

These fish are nocturnal. The best time to catch them is at night, or at dusk or dawn.

When the sun is up, they seek refuge under structure or in thick mats of vegetation. Clown

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knifefish are aggressive ambush predators.

If you walk canal banks at night, you can see their eyes glowing in the beam of a flashlight.

I’ve found the fishing is always best after a rain, as it gets them frenzied. I use live bait like shiners or shad and freeline them near flowing pipes or in fast-moving canals. If knifefish are there, you’ll see them rolling on the surface. I use a small live bait hook on a 20-pound leader, since they do have sharp teeth. For artificials, a 2- to 3-inch white swimbait or a jig will work.

An exciting option is to fish a white topwater frogs at night.

Remember, when they get to the bank the fight isn’t over. They always come up to say hi, and then quickly back away into the darkness.

The current IGFA all-tackle world record is 14-pound, 8-ounce fish caught from Florida’s Lake Ida in 2018 by Michael Donvito.

Emily Rose Hanzlik holds 62 IGFA world records in various categories. Find her on social media @emilyhanzlikoutdoors.

You’re still not fishing custom made rods?

LET’S UP YOUR GAME.

Any angler that spends enough time on the water becomes hyper-sensitive to the performance they get from their gear. The new Find a Rod Builder section at BatsonEnterprises.com has made it easier than ever to get rods tailored for you, and built to fish your way.

Batson has combined the industry’s best line up of rod blanks and components with direct access to our network of professional rod builders that make awesome rods happen. Click to visit us online, browse rod blank and component options, and get in contact with the best fishing rod creators in the business.

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F

orty-nine reservoirs stretch across the Tennessee Valley like a string of pearls. And for those who love to fish, those lakes are just as valuable.

Whether it’s bass, crappie, walleye, or catfish, whether for sport, food, or just fun, you can find world-class lake fishing only hours away from any spot in the Tennessee Valley. From more than 11,000 miles of shoreline or while floating on more than 700,000 acres of water, residents and visitors will quickly learn why this area is considered one of the best fishing destinations in the U.S. and, some would say, the world.

Find Your Own Fishing Hole

Fishing from the shore can be restful and rewarding—and anyone can do it. All you need is a little intel about how to find a spot where the fish might be biting. Here are a few tips for successful shore fishing from the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency: • Fish are often swimming near the shore in the spring and fall. If you’re fishing from the shore in the heat of summer, do it in the evening or early morning—or even after dark.

• Fish near-unique features such as docks, logs, trees, rocks, or rocky areas; aquatic vegetation; or places where creeks enter the water.

• When fishing in moving water, look at the surface for boils and breaks—this means there is some underwater structure blocking the current, which could be the perfect hiding place for fish.

• Begin fishing (casting) close and parallel to the bank, then work your way outward (fan casting) toward deeper water.

• If you don’t get any bites, try switching baits. If this doesn’t work, move to another hole.

• Wear polarized sunglasses so you’ll be able to see fish as well as submerged objects more clearly. (Your eyes will also be protected from the tackle.)

If you love outdoor sports—boating, hunting, fishing—and the natural world, or if you just like to observe wildlife, build birdhouses, maintain a bird feeder or are just curious about the critters in your backyard, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is here to help enrich your outdoor experience. Visit us at www.tn.gov/twra/.

Cherokee County, Alabama Home Of Beautiful Weiss Lake

Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce & Tourism www.cherokee-chamber.org • 256-927-8455

I’ll Have My Crankbait on the Rocks, Please!

By Jim Farmer

WATCH

VIDEO

I

’m not sure who gets colder in the dead of winter, the fish or me, but one thing I’ve found over the years is we’re both looking for warmer areas of the lake on cold winter days.

This isn’t something that took a lot of careful calculation on my part, finding them was out of necessity to keep warm. It just so happens that sometimes the bass and I decide to occupy the same territory at the same time, seeking the same warmth. The last few times I’ve gone fishing on warm sunny winter afternoons, I’ve gravitated toward rocky points facing the southwest afternoon sun.

Our creek on the reservoir runs east to west and is lined with hilly pines, so just looking at the shadows lining the north-facing shoreline in late afternoon gives me chills. Now, it’s a different story on the south-facing shoreline; it’s like a sunny oasis over there. That’s where I want to spend my afternoons.

The first time I tried a crankbait on these shallow rocky areas during the winter, I wasn’t expecting much, but it didn’t take long for the first bass to jump on my little crankbait. When I released the fish, I noticed he was hacking up crawfish as he swam away. A few minutes later I landed another solid bass off the shallow rocks. This fish had two crawfish sticking out of its throat. I got out needle nose pliers and carefully removed one of the crawfish from the fish’s throat. The crawfish color wasn’t too far off from the blue-over-chartreuse crankbait I was using. I put two and two together. These fish were up on the warmer rocky areas with the crawfish.

My new favorite crankbait has some loud rattles, and working it down rocky outcroppings, rattling and banging against the rocks is just what the bass are looking for. In the cold of winter, I like working my crankbait more like a jerkbait over the rocks. The idea is to mimic a foraging baitfish or a moving crawfish rather than a steadily swimming bait. Try and visualize the crankbait picking its way along the rocky bottom. Sometimes I find the bass as shallow as just a few feet in the late afternoon. Judging from the size of their bellies, eating has been good in the neighborhood.

Fishing deeper timber is always a good bet for a few nice winter bass. I’ve got plenty of deeper brushpiles I check on a regular basis, looking for active fish during the winter months. I’ll sit over these areas like a mother hen.

But chances are, if it’s sunny out and the middle of the afternoon, you can find me on the sunny bank, soaking up some heat and catching some really fat winter bass.

Check out Jim Farmer’s blog at castawayblog.com.

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The Venue at Coosa Landing 201 George Wallace Drive Gadsden, AL 35903

Bringing 'Everything Fishing' And Some!

ALABAMAFISHINGSHOW.COM

O

ur sister, The East Tennessee Fishing Show & Expo hosts the largest gathered selection of fishing boats, tackle, kayaks, custom lures, rods, reels, apparel, marine electronics, fishing accessories, and more! – We have taken a few pages from her playbook, and we have brought them down to Gadsden, Alabama where we will be bringing the very first Alabama Fishing Show & Expo!

We ONLY host vendors with fishing, marine, and lake/salt-life related products! Many of our vendors offer multi-species gear for fresh or salt water! We welcome any and all vendors who might have that ‘next BIG thing’!

We try to make sure there is something for every kind of fisherman that attends our event!

We are also sure to include a huge selection of boats and kayaks too, as we try to make it as easy as possible to shop for the newest salt/fresh water fishing boats, gear, and accessories from many reputable and top-notch marine dealers in the greater local and regional Alabama area.

Pro Anglers & Special Guests One Venue: Everything Fishing!

Bringing Hundreds Of Vendors

MILITARY & FIRST RESPONDERS DAY Friday, March 8th 10:00am - 7:30pm

JUNIOR ANGLERS DAY Saturday, March 9th 10:00am -7:30pm

FINAL DAY OF EVENT Sunday, March 10th 10:00am - 5:00pm

The newest in fiberglass and aluminum fishing boats, tackle, kayaks, custom lures, rods, reels, apparel, marine electronics, fishing accessories, and more! That barely gets us started.

COME SEE US MARCH 8TH-10TH, 2024 AT THE VENUE AT COOSA LANDING!

BIG&MEATY TACTICS FOR

WINTER

TROUT

By Nick Carter

F

ebruary on a trout stream can be a bitterly cold place. Fingerless gloves allow use of fingertips that are too numb to use anyway. It makes changing flies a monumental task, so it’s a good thing there isn’t much need to switch tactics.

The fish are sluggish, bug life is pretty much dormant, and everything except the rushing water has slowed to a lull. So why are you freezing your tail off and slinging line to fish that don’t want to eat?

There is the spectacular and overwhelming sense of solitude that comes over one immersed and alone in the winter woods, and there is also a chance at the fish of a lifetime. That chance exists whenever a line is in the water. I’ve also found that the biggest trout, both browns and rainbows, sometimes bite when nothing else is feeding.

The fishing gods reward pain and persistence. It’s a fact.

If your waders spring a leak in freezing temperatures, consider it a good omen. But you have to fish through the misery for the payoff.

But there’s something else to it. Big fish must eat even when their metabolisms have slowed. What’s more, there is less available food in the water during winter. It all depends

on the ecosystem you’re fishing—there have to This is a time to try out those heavily be big fish in the water—but a guide once told weighted, giant streamers that have been me his theory of the large protein package. I relegated to your bass-fishing fly box. Or believe it to be true. Forget the tiny delicate maybe the enormous black stonefly nymph

nymphs that most recommend for sluggish winter fish. Big trout are carnivores, and they will slurp up the largest, meatiest meal available, as long they don’t have to chase it.

will be the ticket? With this mindset, something big and ugly should get the nod.

There’s no need to match the hatch. The idea is to put something too meaty to resist right

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on the fish’s nose.

Finding that nose is the tough part. It requires deliberate and extremely meticulous fishing. Pick a likely hole or run and fish it until you’ve covered it all several times before moving on. Don’t strip your streamers, drift them like nymphs and let them get down near the bottom. The action caused by the current and mending line is enough to make them wiggle seductively. The idea is to make your fly look like something that lacks the energy to escape.

Fishing like this can be tedious, but the rewards can be great. By going big, you increase the odds you won’t catch anything at all, but you also increase the odds of catching a fish that will make your year… and it’s only February.

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Visit Cherokee County

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THURSDAY FEBRUARY 8TH THROUGH SUNDAY THE 11TH!

THIS IS THE BOATING EVENT OF THE YEAR!

Mid-Atlantic Boat Show

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This is the product showcase everyone waits on.

Freshly unwrapped 2024 product will be on display for you and your family to come see and board during this once a year event.

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FRIDAY FEBRUARY 23RD THROUGH SUNDAY THE 25TH!

Central Carolina Boat & Fishing Expo

GREENSBORO COLISEUM GREENSBORO, NC

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THREE DAYS… ONE PLACE!

he Triad’s Only Boat and Fishing show opens February 23rd for 3 big days. Wakeboarding, Tubing, Fishing Tackle, Seminars, Kayaks, Bass Boats, Ski Boats, Center Consoles, Pontoons, Deck Boats…. all under one roof for one weekend. This is the PERFECT time to restock the tackle box, get tips from Pro Anglers like Bryan Thrift, get great deals on watersports gear AND… see the best selection of marine product available today. 16 marine dealers from the region will showcase the best selection of marine product available in this market.

With approximately 200 units on display it’s time to get your family ready… It’s Time To Discover Boating!

www.GreensboroFishingExpo.com

WINTER MUSKY FISHING

IN THE SOUTH

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t was mid-February, and we’d just received a solid 20 inches of snow over several days in the mountains of southwest Virginia. I was scheduled to fly out of Roanoke to exhibit at the Milwaukee Muskie Expo, but unfortunately, all flights were canceled. After a long night on the phone with the airline and with no chance of making the show, I began to ponder the possibilities of a hot musky bite on the nearby New River amidst the snow-covered mountains and frozen boat ramps.

SOUTHERN MUSKY For states like North Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia and West Virginia, water temps rarely fall below freezing for any amount

This big muskie was caught during a snowstorm on the New River.

By Britt Stoudenmire

of time. And with no closed seasons or extended ice-outs, musky fishing reaches its peak during the winter months of December through early March. Some great examples of fisheries that provide some type of winter musky action are: the French Broad River in North Carolina; Melton Hill near Knoxville, Tenn.; the New River that flows through North Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia; the upper James River near Roanoke, Va.; and Cave Run in Eastern Kentucky.

WINTER ADVANTAGE “What makes the winter so good?” The answer is simple, the lack of food. During the warm-water months, when water temps can rise higher than 70 degrees, muskies have their choice of easy meals that include a

wide variety baitfish, suckers and small game fish such as bream and bass. While they are more active during this period, they are also more picky because of all the food choices. The colder water temps put a big dent in the food supply, making your presentations much more desirable as a whole. I call it the “eat or die” mentality.

Pearson’s Minnow, Musky Mania’s Jake or Drifter’s Lil’ Ernie. And if I want to get deep, Adam’s Custom Lures’ Mega-DX, Musky Train’s Loco Shad, or Red October’s Vertical Jigging Tubes are great baits.

Finally, as the cabin fever set in, I loaded my boat and headed to the

FEEDING WINDOWS Because muskies are less active in colder water, it means their feeding windows are much shorter.

The most challenging part of winter musky fishing is realizing when these windows are occurring and taking advantage of them. A harsh cold front will shrink feeding windows, while a several-day warming trend can produce several feeding windows through the day. If I have stable weather and water conditions, I then look to the moon to help predict these windows.

I have found the windows lengthen and/or intensify several days before and after a full moon. A good starting point for when they happen is usually one or two hours around sunrise, sunset, moonrise and moonset.

LOCATION Muskies will migrate in the late fall to wintering areas. These areas need to have depth, food and cover. On the rivers I fish, the minimum depth to hold wintering muskies is, on average, about 10 feet or more. I like straight, slower sections, with excellent bottom and bank cover. Ledges or rapids at the top of the wintering hole, a depth change off a sandy flat on the sunny side of the river and any type of deep current break will attract fish.

PRESENTATIONS During the winter, glide baits such as Pearson’s Suicide Sucker, Drifter’s Hellhound and Monster’s Squirko are excellent to cover the top of the water column for more aggressive fish. I like to fish glide baits over the top of wooded laydowns. If the fish are not looking up, I will shift to the middle of the water column using presentations such as

river. I caught three fish between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. with the largest two measuring longer than 40 inches. It further proved the advantage of winter musky fishing and the importance of taking advantage of feeding windows influenced by the moon and warming trends.

Britt Stoudenmire has guided on the New and James rivers for more than a decade and owns and operates New River Outdoor Co. along with his wife Leigh. For more information on their guided musky trips and lodging packages, contact them at (540) 921-7438 or visit their website at www.newriveroutdoorco.com.

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ANGLER CATCHES 27-POUND RECORD ON 2-POUND-TEST WATCH

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GFA record-chaser Art Weston is still at it, but he seems to have switched targets from giant gar to giant buffalo. His most recent pending line class record is a 27-pound smallmouth buffalo that he landed on 2-poundtest line.

Weston has made it his mission to catch big fish on ridiculously light line. Over the last few years, he set eight new IGFA line class records for alligator gar on his way to catching the alltackle world record. On Sept. 2, 2023, he made waves with an enormous 283-pound gar on 6-pound-test. That fish, which came from Sam Rayburn Lake in Texas, is the largest alligator gar on the IGFA books.

By comparison, fighting the 27-pound

buffalo he caught in mid-December must have seemed like child’s play despite the skill and teamwork it takes to land big fish on delicate line. Weston was fishing with Austin Anderson, of CarpPro Texas Guide Service. Over two days, Anderson put Weston on several potential record-breaking buffalo, of which the 27-pounder on 2-pound-test may be the most impressive.

The anglers were fishing from a boat with an array of baits out on rods with bite alarms.

When one of the alarms went off, “I picked up the rod and began to apply slow but steady pressure, using only about 1 pound of drag on the reel,” Weston told Fox News. “One trick I learned fishing light line is that you want a reel

VIDEO

that has a low maximum drag setting, which relates to a smoother fight when only using a small amount of drag.

“After many long runs, this particular buffalo came to the surface and Austin was ready with the net and was able to land it on the first try.”

Weston’s fish is almost 10 pounds heavier than the existing IGFA 2-pound line-class record, a 17-pound, 8-ounce fish caught from Texas’s Trinity River in 1995. The all-tackle world record smallmouth buffalo weighed 82 pounds, 3 ounces. It was caught at Athens Lake, Texas in 1993.

For more record fish, go to coastalanglermag.com.

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FISHING THROUGH THE ICE FOR

COLORADO LAKE TROUT

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hile anglers in the South are complaining about cold weather making their quarry sluggish this time of year, at least Southerners don’t have to cut holes in the ice to fish. If you are reading this below the Mason-Dixon line, use it as an illustration of what real winter-weather fishing is all about. Maybe you’d like to try it? If you are like me, and your fisheries have a layer of ice over them, these are some great tactics for catching lake trout under ice.

Lake trout are hard-fighting, fine-tasting quarry worthy of ice anglers’ serious attention, yet many hardwater warriors shy away due to the intimidation factor. After all, finding and fooling mobile, moody wintertime trout borders on the impossible for all but seasoned experts, right?

Hardly. Just ask veteran guide and longtime laker (this means lake trout for the uninitiated) fan Bernie Keefe, who helps scads of aspiring trout bums connect with stellar icewater catches.

“If people are intimidated, they shouldn’t be,” he said. “By following a few basic principles of location and presentation, it’s possible for even first-timers to put fish on the ice.”

Putting yourself on a solid fishery is

By Dan Johnson

job one. It’s accomplished easily enough by querying state fishery biologists, local guides and bait shop regulars, as well as monitoring the chatter on Internet fishing forums. Keefe spends much of his time on high-country Colorado gems like Granby, Shadow Mountain and Grand lakes, but options abound in a number of states and Canadian provinces.

Once you’ve settled on a promising honeyhole, zero in on productive areas. “In winter, lake trout can mostly be anywhere they want to be,” Keefe began. “Lake-wide, the temperature is right in their wheelhouse. Same goes for the water column. It’s 39 degrees at the bottom and 32 on top, so suspended fish are not uncommon.”

Still, there are mitigating factors. In mid to late winter, oxygen depletion in deep water often pushes trout higher in the column, so it’s possible to eliminate extreme depths when this occurs. “February into March, you’ll see a lot of fish moving up, suspending 50 feet down over 100 feet or more of water,” he said.

In a structural sense, Keefe often follows a point or ridge from shore

into deeper water. “Sometimes you find them by veering off the structure halfway out, and other times by following it to the end, then walking a little farther out over the abyss,” he explained. “It sounds funny, but they like being in the middle of nowhere, yet close to some type of structure.”

Since trout are cold-water eating machines, Keefe keys on areas with ample forage. “Fifteento 20-plus inch lakers, the ones easiest to catch and the best to eat, have predictable feeding habits,” he said. Favorite food for these size lakers in Keefe's core lakes include Mysis shrimp, plankton and small minnows. In other systems, the menu includes a variety of insects, plus ciscoes, smelt and other fare. Large trout, which are always a possibility, favor bigger meals, and aren’t above cannibalizing other salmonids, including juvenile lake trout. In systems offering a bit of current, Keefe checks places where the flow concentrates forage, thereby condensing the food chain into smaller areas.

To speed your search, he suggested tapping easy-to-access areas adjacent to community holes. “In the Rockies, walking out from roads and ramps often lands you over 60 to 100 feet of water in a hurry,” he said. “Find a spot where

the mob has been fishing, and either follow the same depth contour parallel to shore, or move out a little deeper.”

Unlike ice fishing for many other species, where marking fish with sonar is important before fishing, trout are such cruisers that it takes a bit more faith. After dropping his sonar transducer into a hole, he lowers a beefy jig into the water and methodically works down the water column with slow and steady jigstrokes. “Once you hit bottom, bang it a few times, then start back up,” he said.

Go-to jig heads include Lazer TroKar's #810 jig hook. Tippings trend toward softbaits like a 3- to 4-inch Berkley Gulp! Minnow, or 2to 3-inch Lindy Fuzz-E-Grub, tube or similar softie. “Choose contrasting jig and softbait colors,” he noted. “I like orange, chartreuse or black for the head, and white for the trailer.”

He also skewers a small slice of succulent sucker meat on the hook for added attraction, no longer or wider than the jig.

While jigging, Keefe eyes his sonar screen, which is set to cover the entire column. “Watch for marks coming in,” he said. “When you see a fish, get your jig to that level and experiment with pauses, shakes and raises until you figure out what they want.” Since most strikes occur on the fall, Keefe keeps a tight line throughout the presentation. And when a fish strikes, he sets immediately. “The second they feel the jig, they look up at you, open their mouth and shake their head violently,” he said. “If you don’t have them hooked good and keep the line tight, they’re gone.”

Keefe said an ice rod with a stout backbone

yet somewhat forgiving tip is ideal for hooksets and battles. He uses a 36-inch, mediumheavy Dave Genz split-handle rod from Clam Outdoors spooled with 10-pound-test Berkley Trilene 100 Percent Fluorocarbon.

He advises reeling trout slowly to the surface to reduce the chances of post-release mortality. On lakes with healthy trout populations, keeping a few smaller fish yields delicious table fare. Keefe suggests immediately

bleeding out trout to improve their flavor.

Following his advice, it’s possible for even novice ice fans across lake trout territory to crush the intimidation factor. If you’re reading this from afar, it might convince you to give it a try and see what all the fuss is about.

For more information or to book a trip with Keefe, visit fishingwithbernie.com or call (970) 531-2318.

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The Megalodon Had A Predator Too...

THE LIVYATAN!

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COASTAL ANGLER! WATCH

VIDEO

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EASY BELIZEY B

elize City doesn’t have a big fancy airport with neon signs everywhere. In fact, the single runway is also the taxiway, and you exit the plane via stairs. This simple airport sets the stage for the rest of the trip, which is easy, laid back and unplugged.

Ambergris Caye is situated in the Caribbean Sea just off the coast of this small English-speaking nation sandwiched between Mexico and Guatemala. During a short flight to the caye and a boat ride to El Pescador Resort, you’ll be blown away by the views and the blues and greens of the water.

Upon arriving at the lodge, we were greeted by an amazing staff, which refers to itself as family and thinks of you the same way, always addressing you by your first name. After settling in we, met at the dock for a fly-casting session with the guides, which was very helpful even for veteran casters. After dinner, we talked about what to expect the next day. It was quickly noted that this is one of the best places for a shot at a slam. The flats hold an abundance of bonefish, tarpon and permit.

At daybreak, my father and I boarded the boat and ran south along the coast to just below the Mexican border. Our guide suddenly made a hard left turn and stopped the boat. Just ahead was a giant school of rolling tarpon, and it didn’t take long to hook up.

After about 10 minutes I had the 30-pounder boat

By Will Schmidt

side. Unfortunately, the commotion of the fight pushed the other fish away.

We then headed into a bay where we had world-class shots at permit. There were cruising fish and 20-plus pounders waving their tails at us as they ate breakfast. Unfortunately, as permit often do, they refused our offerings, but the bay was also filled with eager-to-eat bonefish and we spent the rest of day catching them.

It was the same each day of our trip, with

numerous shots at multiple species and plenty of action. We had shots at juvenile to tripledigit tarpon, small to 20-pound permit and bonefish for days, although we did not see any particularly large bones.

Admittedly, I have some isolated places to fish on my bucket list. Seemingly, every time I look at what it will take to pull a trip off, I start searching for more feasible options. Belize always rises to the top. There are plenty of

reasonable flight options, and it’s only a couple of hours from south Florida. You will also find many competitively priced all-inclusive lodges that are close to the fish and will pamper you after a long day on the water. When you consider the ease of the travel, price and quality of fishing, Belize is definitely bucket list worthy.

Will Schmidt is a seasoned tournament angler who has been writing about fishing for decades.

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MORE FISH, LESS FUEL!

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ince 2004, Hilton’s has helped serious offshore anglers catch more fish while burning less gas. This is the company that pioneered online satellite fish forecasting with timely updated charts that display all of the pertinent fishfinding information at a reasonable cost for the best anglers in the world.

This year, Hilton’s pushed the industry forward again with its SAT2NAV system. In a quantum leap ahead of any other service in the industry, Hilton’s has brought its unparalleled charts where they belong… to your boat’s chart plotter screen!

Gone are the days when a separate smart device was required to navigate on charts downloaded while in cell phone range. SAT2NAV allows you to surf Hilton’s online mapping portal, select desired charts and then navigate on them—all on the water and all from the multifunction display in your cockpit.

Nobody in the industry can do what Hilton’s is doing with SAT2NAV. SAT2NAV is an external device that connects to the monitors of your Garmin, Raymarine or Furuno multifunction displays. It has its own WIFI and GPS antennas and brings access to Hilton’s charts to the monitors at your helm. It is now possible view your vessel’s position relative to temperature breaks, color changes, high-res bathymetry, altimetry, etc. on your multifunction display.

With split-screen, all of this powerful imagery can be displayed alongside sonar, radar or other desired information.

With SAT2NAV, it’s never been easier to identify and navigate to ocean features where bait and gamefish congregate. You can do your homework on the charts at home, but sometimes it’s necessary to call an audible on the water. With Hilton’s charts clearly visible on your monitor, you can find those good currents, minute temperature changes, sea-surface upwellings, color breaks and navigate to them. Perhaps more importantly, you can eliminate dead water, which makes you a much more efficient and effective angler.

Of course, all of this comes with Hilton’s unrivaled service.

Their philosophy, reputation and longevity in the industry rely on the concept that if the information doesn’t help you catch fish, you won’t use it. So, they continually strive to provide the best up-to-date imagery, information and technology, and they’ll go above and beyond to make sure you know what you’re looking at and how to use it.

Hilton’s, again, is leading the industry.

With SAT2NAV they can do what no one else in the industry can do right now. At the same time, they are continually working to be better with additional eye-opening features that will further distinguish Hilton’s as the best in the fish forecasting industry. Stay tuned…

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TIPS FROM A PRO

FISH TOPWATER TO LOCATE SPAWNERS T

TYLER WOOLCOTT

his time of year, in some parts of the country and especially in the South, bass are about to start transitioning to move up on beds and spawn. Whether you’re fishing from shore in a pond or by boat in a big lake, this time of year is prime time for making memories because the biggest fish in the lake become more visible and more vulnerable to anglers.

As the bass spawn rolls northward with warming temperatures over the next few months, keep the following tips in mind. For the most part, I do the same things, whether I’m fishing for big Southern largemouths or smallmouths up north. In a nutshell, I’ll fish through areas fairly quickly until I find some aggressive fish and then slow down and pick them apart with something slower.

WATCH

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FEBRUARY 2024

This is when I can also look for beds with my eyes to sight fish.

The spawn is triggered by a few key factors. Major moon phases, whether it be a full moon or a new moon, along with a general warming weather trend are the triggers for bass to move up and start their spawn. Staying on top of these factors will tell you when fish are likely to be moving shallow at your lake. Then you can go find them and put them in the boat.

Shallow flats adjacent to deeper water are preferred spawning grounds, and a topwater is one of my favorite ways to cover water and locate productive areas. Whether it be a frog, walking bait, prop bait or buzzbait doesn’t matter. Pick your confidence lure and chuck it around to see if you can get some

VIDEO

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bites. Typically, a bass on a bed will show itself to some form of topwater, even if it doesn’t actually eat it. They might eat it, or they might just wake behind it or swirl on it. Curiosity and protectiveness of the area typically gets the best of them this time of year, and a topwater is an awesome way to cover a lot of water to find productive areas.

Once you’ve located some fish, slow down with something like a wacky worm to pick up some of the other fish in the area.

Typically, bass prefer to spawn next to some sort of cover or structure, so keep this in mind. They will use grass, trees, docks, rocks, sand, or pretty much anything hard to make a bed for their eggs. Find a shallow area with plenty of objects you can cast to, and there’s a good chance bass will be around it in some stage of the spawn.

The biggest bass I’ve ever caught was during the spawn in 2013. It weighed 13 pounds, 1 ounce and is pictured here. Get out there and find some big egg-laden females over the next few months, and there’s decent chance you’ll get to take a photo with your new personal best.

Tyler Woolcott is a professional tournament angler and guide. Check out his website at www.tylerwoolcottfishing.com.

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Fish Methodically When

the Bite Slows

PHOTO COURTESY OF KNOCKIN TAIL LURES®.

By Capt. Michael Okruhlik

WATCH

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recently had a stretch of tough fishing days that called for a thorough covering of a cove to find what I was looking for. Over the next few paragraphs, I’ll cover what changes I made that saved the day, and I think you will see the logic in my decision and possibly implement this method when you find yourself in a slowbite situation. Keep in mind, I typically don’t have the patience to utilize this approach, as it is very methodical, leaving no stone unturned, so to speak, but it can and did pay off.

During a normal wade, I only target the sweet zones, but when they are not there or not feeding, I map out a deliberate path where I cover every inch of the area, twice. Depending on whether I start from the shore or from offshore via a boat or kayak, I will choose a direction to wade. For this example, let’s say I walked in and started from the bank. I will slowly walk out to the maximum depth I want

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FEBRUARY 2024

VIDEO to fish casting to my right, left and straight ahead. I vary my retrieve speed, depth and action throughout until I find what the fish are looking for. Once I reach the farthest point I want to cover, I make a 90-degree turn and walk about the distance of a long cast as I continue casting right, left, and straight ahead. Once I reach that point, I turn another 90 degrees and head back toward the shore repeating the same casting process.

One direction will be covering the same water I just fished but from a different angle. At times, this can make a difference and entice the bite, depending on how they are staged on the structure or the direction they are swimming through the area.

Once my cast has reached the shore, I may decide to change lure size or type. Once again, I turn 90 degrees and repeat the process.

During a tough bite, you need to pull out

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all the stops. This is not the time to be stuck in a rut of what typically works or what your favorite fishing style may be. It’s important to change your retrieve style and speed. Don’t let a slow bite convince you that inactive fish will only eat a slowly presented lure. Many times, a faster erratic retrieve is what gets them to strike. Cover the gamut and see what works.

I rarely use this method, as it is tedious.

However, if I have high confidence in the area and the fish are inactive or possibly deeper or shallower than I anticipated, working methodically has paid off, and I learn something new each time it does.

Take a kid, and even a tough day of catching will still be a good day of fishing.

Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures®, and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.

don't stop reeLing Alex Kendrick reel salty www.reelsaltydestin.com

season and is only going to get better. Trolling lures 10-15 knots is ideal starting around the 90’ mark. Keep an eye out for weed lines and large patches of grass, you never know what’s below them. Whenever I see grass patches I like to stop and sight fish for Mahi, Tuna, Wahoo, and Triple tail.

For Mahi I like to keep a light pitch rod with 20# fluorocarbon and 2/0 Owner circle hook. Live bait works really well on the larger bulls and cut squid works better on the smaller chicken dolphins. If lures are your thing I prefer Yozuri Crystal Minnows and honestly color doesn’t matter. Pitch around the weed lines or patches and look deeper down for the bigger Mahi. As for Tuna with all the chumming going on, I like to send down a vertical jig on 60#-80# test at least 100’ below the boat. Working your jig through the water column is a good way to fire up any kind of fish that may be lurking around in the shadows. If you have a large diamond jig I’d put some heavy wire in front of it for a chance at a wahoo. Triple Tail are amazing fish on light tackle and I recommend 15#-20# fluorocarbon and #2 Owner hook. Live shrimp work really well along with small cuts of squid.

If bottom fishing is your go to joy Vermillion snappers, Groupers, and Rock salmon is my target. For Vermillion snappers I like using a 2-3 hook chicken rig mixed with cut squid and Boston mackerel. Let your weight sit right on the bottom and wait for those 2-3 light bites. Rock salmon and Groupers like to hide out in the rocks and caves, so a slip lead is what I like to use. Heavier leader line for Groupers and larger baits close to the bottom. Feel the bite and start cranking. The first 20’-30’ are the most important so DON’T STOP reeling.

When it comes to offshore fishing don’t give up. There’s a lot of trial and error. Figure out what works best for you and as always keep your lines out and keep them tight.

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september 2021

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