UNICORN HUNTING INSHORE AFTER DARK
navigating peace of mind
THE IMPORTANCE OF BOAT INSURANCE
Embarking on the open water is an exhilarating experience, flled with the promise of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a weekend cruiser, safeguarding your vessel with proper insurance is not just a choice—it’s a necessity. Explore the reasons why every boat owner should prioritize boat insurance for a worry-free voyage.
Unpredictable waters
The open water can be unpredictable, with unexpected storms, collisions, or other potential accidents. Boat insurance can give you fnancial protection if there is damage to your vessel, providing coverage for repairs or replacement.
Damage and injury
Accidents on the water can result in damage to other boats, docks, or even injuries to passengers. Boat insurance offers liability coverage, which can pay for damages or injuries you’re liable for while boating, up to specifed limits, and lawsuit costs if you’re sued. This includes damage you cause to another watercraft or if someone on or near your boat is injured and you’re found to be legally responsible.
Theft and vandalism
Unfortunately, boat theft and vandalism are realities that boat owners face. Boat insurance has comprehensive and collision coverage that can protect you against events outside of your control, including theft and vandalism.
Incurred medical payments
Accidents on the water may lead to injuries for you or your passengers. Boat insurance offers a range of optional medical payments coverage limits, helping to cover medical expenses if you are in an accident or someone is hurt on your boat, regardless of fault.
Peace of mind for fnancing
If you fnanced the purchase of your boat, most lenders require insurance coverage to protect their investment. Having boat insurance not only fulflls these requirements but also gives you peace of mind knowing that your fnancial interests are safeguarded.
Navigational fexibility
Some water municipalities and marinas may require proof of insurance for docking or accessing certain areas. Boat insurance allows you the fexibility to explore different destinations without worrying about entry restrictions.
Emergency towing and assistance
Progressive boat insurance can include optional Sign & Glide® On-Water Towing coverage. If your boat is disabled or breaks down on the water, Sign & Glide® pays for on-water towing, jump starts, soft un-groundings, and fuel delivery.
Wreckage removal
If your boat sinks, Progressive boat insurance will cover the cost of removing your boat from the water (if removal is legally required).
Investing in boat insurance is not just about protecting a valuable asset; it’s about safeguarding the memories, experiences, and joy that come with your on-water adventures. Don’t let unforeseen circumstances disrupt your journey—navigate with confdence, knowing that Progressive boat insurance has you covered. Ensure a smooth and worry-free voyage, because when it comes to your boat, peace of mind is the ultimate luxury.
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THEHIGHS OFUNICOR HUNTING
Throughout chc year, the Florida KC)'S provide excclltnt billlish oppor1unitics.
Bycapt.QulnlynHaddon
Sailfish c.an be foulld year.round and are most reliably targeted in late autumn through the spring when they feast on ballyhoo at the reef.
Swordfishing is grc.1t any time ofthe year. as lcmgasM!3.lhcr accommodal('S!he l<>nsrnn l() the decpwa1cr JcdgcS. Tai:gcting them during tht:: day re<1uii:csdroppingabaitLothebottom.
�fariinfishi11gjsdoableduri11gsummer.butit$ certainlyJess thanreliable. 'Ihey a.-eoftenhooked as bycatch while fisltillg for the mahi or tuna on whichtheyarefeeding.
I recently had the pleasure of taking a trip solely targetingmarlinandswordfish.\Vehadtwo fishermen on board who were firs1 1liners with both.spl't'i<$. It wasintcro:,ting ,vatching them go 1hrough thebipolarswingsofbUlfishing. ·n1eywere
there LQ a$$i:.land learn, and I got lo watch them enjoy nnd suffer through thefull experience. Initially. there was opliini.sm as the su1\ rose a11d wedeployed ail elaboratetrolling spread. 1he setupmust haveseemedfantasticaltoanewcomer, with the giant lures.strange-looking teasers and lines everywhere. like we were captained by a coffoc fuclcdspider.Thedaywas )'Oung.1hcspread ,rasaworko(an,andthenc,,·bieshadnoreasonto doubt ourchances.
Frustrationsoo1lfollowed.Aswewerewtapping up marlin 1rollillg to head for the swordgrouods.
wepa.ss«1agorgeous weed linefull ofhma birds. It looked likeourbestchance... until the right rigger caught grnss. Upon• gentle rc1ricvc10dc.1rtheline,itpopf)OOthe rigger, foll1hroughthespreadam.lauempll-'<ll.Omate with the teaser al the worst time. We packed up inthemiddleof1hegiantflockof birdsthat mockedusforquitting.Ahh,disappointinent It was time co hii Lhe swordgrouncb and beginthecycleagain.Our nextelaboratesetup wo,dd drop to 1,500 feet.and the doe e)eS of optimismmadetheir nextappearance. 1hc dance belwccn doubt. lx)rcdom and forcedoprimismcontinued.a,,;ourfirs1bitedidn1l occuruntilafter4 p.m. It wasaheavyhit.a reelstopping, drag-pulling, set-up-the-harpoon type hit that had us giggling like children. El'eryone was re�1dy to t.1keon dutieswhen, JOO.feet from theweight, the rod tip popped up and everrone experiencedgut.wrenchingheartbreak.
On Lhc nc:ic1 drift, we hooked up again, and cvcrronequietlyheldtheirexcitement untilthetlsh hit the deck. l don't m.�d to cxplah\ the foe-ling in that Jlext moine11t, but with smiles and high fives a1J around > it was the 011e we wereall looking for. We tookhomesati.sfactio11.exhaustio11.andbigbags ofm<.".ll.
Hunting swimming unicorns is hands-down m)' favorite fishing. If youwant toexperiencethe emotional rollcrcoaS1cr of chasing the fish of a lifetime,givemeacallalSwce1 E'nul'Charters.
Capt, Quinl)'u Hmtdcm guides wit/1 Swed E'Nu/Clwrlers, Mnratliot1, Florida Keys. ww1�capt<1inqui11ly11.ccm1; <fi>captai11q11i11/y11; (504) 910�-12.
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TACTICS FOR DOG DAYS BASS 4
It’s hot. Te lakes and reservoirs are covered with jet skis, wake boats and party barges full of sun seekers.
Dog days conditions can be tough for bass fshing, but fsh settle into patterns this time of year that can lead to productive days on the water.
Finding cooler water is the key to catching bass when the surface temperatures reach uncomfortable levels, and there are several ways to do this.
Go Deep: Te huge schools of fsh that concentrate on ofshore ledges and river channel bends at many of our large reservoirs have already been beaten into submission by every angler with sonar by this time of year. You might still be able to pick a few out of the school with deep crankbaits, drop-shots or footballhead jigs, but sometimes it’s worth fnding less obvious fsh to target.
Tere are other areas that hold fsh. Tat 30-footwide shell bed of the main channel might not be covered with bass, but there will be some fsh there if there’s some current, and these bass see much fewer lures and are more willing to bite this time of year. Search with a crankbait, wiggle a football-head on the bottom or drag a big Carolina rigged worm over the shells and see what happens.
Cool-Water Tribs: A tributary stream feeding cooler water into the lake attracts baitfsh and bass. Fish ofen stage on points where a feeder creek enters the main body. Eliminate water quickly with crankbaits or spinnerbaits to see if there’s anyone home before
slowing down with a jig or a worm.
By CAM Staf
Extend the Night Bite: Bass do a lot of their feeding at night this time of year, and anglers can take advantage of this by fshing the frst couple hours of daylight.
Tis pattern will also show you that not every fsh in the lake goes deep. Shallow rocks and grass edges hold bluegill, shad, crayfsh and all sorts of other tasty critters. Start on top at or before dawn with a walking bait or popper and cover as much water as you can before the sun gets up. Tis is not really a numbers game, and the bites will be scattered, but it’s a lot of fun when a big fsh blows up your lure.
Fish the Shade: When the sun gets high and hot, you’ll fnd fsh hunkered down in the shade. Docks, laydowns, overhanging trees or matted vegetation all provide the shade bass and the things they eat look for. Bank shade is also where you’ll fnd bream beds where bass like to feed.
Skip a wacky rig up as far up under a dock as you can get it. Drop a jig into that blowdown. Work a frog over matted grass or punch through it with a heavy Texas rig. Cover water and pick apart those shady areas. It’s a fun style of fshing that can also be productive under less-than-perfect conditions.
For more bass tips, go to coastalanglermag.com.
Coleman Roberts caught his 9-pound, 4-ounce bass in July at Lake Istokpoga, Fla.
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RUN-AND-GUN TROLLING Scout Weed Lines Quickly and Effectively
By Mark Ambert
With summer weed line formation, mahi become a favorite target for the “run and gun” method. A good way to quickly scout if anyone’s home is a modifed version of the troll. I have observed and adopted this method used by professional captains for mahi.
The Setup
Keep a couple of spinning rods rigged and ready with pitch baits that can be trolled. Te rig consists of a 7-foot medium-heavy spinning rod with a 6000-size spinning reel—preferably with a baitrunner setting.
If you’re not familiar with the baitrunner function, it is a free-spool setting that allows line to pull from the spool while the bail is engaged. When a fsh grabs your bait, it can take it without feeling resistance.
My favorite combo is a Penn Carnage III boat rod with a Shimano Tunnus reel. Spool up with 20-lb. mono and add a 40- or 50-lb., 4-foot fuorocarbon leader. Tie on a Gamakatsu 6/0 or 7/0 Octopus hook using a Palomar knot. Insert the hook under the chin of a fresh frozen, small- to medium-sized ballyhoo. Make sure the point of the hook exits directly between the eyes. I like a Squidnation Slammer 3-inch plastic chugger head
with the bait to produce more action.
Cast this behind the boat along a weed line while underway. Position it several yards past the last wakes from the prop wash, and slowly work the bait by twitching the rod tip while holding it above your head. Tis will cause the ballyhoo to skip like a feeing baitfsh. You can work two baits in this manner by staggering the distance. If nothing hits within a few minutes, move on.
Tis method is slower than traditional trolling, and it is deadly for locating feeding fsh on large, scattered weed patches. If you are using a baitrunner reel, allow the fsh to run a few seconds before setting the hook.
The Electric Alternate
An alternate method that’s ideal for long straight weed lines or rips is a more traditional trolling setup. I use the Piscifun Saltfow ofshore rod and a Kraken electric reel with battery pack for this type of trolling.
Te Saltfow is 8-foot, 3-inch rod with a sof tip. It has a unique line guide setup that eliminates rod twist under a load. Te Kraken electric reel is new to me this year and has already paid dividends.
beneft when constantly retrieving lures to clear weeds or move locations. A traditional ballyhoo rig with a teaser and bait spring is my choice for medium-speed trolling. A good premade rig is the Mahi Chaser by Trolling Pro Tackle.
Once you get a hook-up, get some fresh squid, jigs or live baits in the water and hang on. Te Mahi show is about to get started!
Mark Ambert, IG @marksgonefshing_™
Cast Lures in a Mitzi Tournament 17
LOBSTERING IN THE KEYS A FUN & FLAVORFUL ADVENTURE!
By A. deGruchy
If you’re craving the thrill of the hunt and the taste of fresh lobster, the Florida Keys are your paradise. Here’s a quick guide to help you fnd these delectable critters, catch them, and turn them into a simple, yet fancy meal. First things frst, you’ll need the right gear. Grab a tickle stick, to push lobsters out of their hiding spots, and a lobster net to scoop them up once they’re on the move. Snorkel gear is essential for getting up close and personal with these lobsters, and don’t forget gloves to protect your hands from sharp rocks and lobster spines. Lastly, a measuring device is required to make sure your catch is legal size. Tey are measured in carapace length, and it’s important to know how to measure
them before gathering them.
Now, let’s talk lobster hotspots. Spiny lobsters love to hide in crevices, under ledges, and around coral reefs. Te regular lobster season runs from August to March. Once you have your snorkeling gear, you can generally fnd them in as shallow as 6 feet deep. Keep an eye out for their long antennae sticking out from their hiding places, and then gently use your tickle stick to encourage them out before swifly scooping them up with your net. Teir behavior is to swim away, naturally, and spiny lobsters use their tail to swim backward. Make sure your net is in position to anticipate them swimming backward into your trap. Once they’re in it, it’s also important to close the
Repower Center
netting to prevent any slip ups and runaways.
Once you’ve got your catch, it’s time to enjoy. Te easiest way to prepare lobster is to grill them. Split the lobsters in half lengthwise, brush with a mixture of melted butter, garlic and a squeeze of lemon juice and grill them shell-side down until the meat is opaque and slightly charred. Serve with a side of melted butter for dipping, and you’ve got yourself a fancy feast.
So, gear up, dive in, and get ready to enjoy the freshest lobster you’ve ever tasted. Happy hunting!
Visit www.myfwc.com for more information and updates on Florida Spiny Lobster regulations.
LIGHT UP THE NIGHT
Tim Barefoot
Fishing under lights at night is a good thing to do 12 months out of the year, but it is especially good during the hot summer months, when daytime temperatures can make standing on the deck in the glaring sun less than appealing.
During the hottest days of the year, snook, trout and redfsh follow bait directly to bright light, like moths to the porch light. Being that I sell boat lifs for a living, I suggest installing the biggest brightest lights on your docks that you can. Some systems can be controlled remotely with an app on your phone.
To turn your dock into a fshing Mecca, you must learn to use existing facilities for maximum return on investment. You can also feed shrimp and minnows with cornmeal and keep them attracted with lights at night. Once you get the bait concentrated, you will have the fsh concentrated as well. For more information on this, check out my Youtube channel.
If you don’t have a dock, you can still light up the night with powerful and lightweight lithium battery spotlights or purpose-made fshing lights that run on your boat’s electrical system. Some of these are submersible. Turn the lights on and hang out for a few minutes. You’ll be amazed at how many baitfsh show
up.
I like an artifcial shrimp jig or live shrimp best. Live shrimp are the most efective bait out there, but I like artifcials because it limits the amount of tackle and hassle. A good technique is to drif down a series of lighted docks and cast to the lights. When you fnd fsh, concentrate on that area with repeated drifs.
A word of advice: Be quiet! Older and wiser snook or trout are not stupid. Use the trolling motor only when it’s needed and not at all when possible. In my humble opinion, fsh become wary to the sound of a trolling motor. Remain calm and make as little noise as possible on your drifs. Don’t play music, stomp around on the deck, talk loudly or slam cooler lids.
Te light attracts the fsh and catching them is up to you. Match the hatch by taking notice of the type and size of the bait you see. Tis might require casting smaller jigs or even small shrimp or baitfsh fies when the fsh get picky.
Tis is the perfect atmosphere for showing children how to catch fsh. Te visual aspect of this technique is very entertaining and educational. Check out my Youtube video
for a perfect example of fshing a well-lighted dock properly.
For more information, visit barefootcatsandtackle.com and check out his YouTube channel.
Charlotte Harbor
By: Capt. Dave Stephens
Well fellow anglers our rainy season has definitely arrived and appears to be not near as dry as last year, and in my opinion, this is a good thing. Our estuary requires a balance of fresh and saltwater. So hopefully this year we will get a more balanced system. The bad part is our water will get a tea color due to the rainwater run-off. This is not a bad thing nor is it pollution, it is a result of the dead foliage on the ground. Therefore, if sight fishing is one of your favorite activities, it is going to be a little difficult in the north end of the harbor. The snook fishing in the upper harbor has been very good lately. Look for feeding fish around creek mouths and mangrove points with good tidal flow, and live pilchards have been the bait of choice free lined on a 2\0 circle hook. We have also had a very good mangrove snapper bite this year. These species seem to be anywhere there's some structure or a
deep point. If they seem to be picky, you may want to downsize your tackle, snapper have very good eyesight. Dropping down to 20# fluorocarbon and a #1 will often help a lot. This is also the time of year the tarpon is up in the north end of the harbor very good. Getting an early start to locate rolling fish is the key. Also, fish can be found in the deeper holes in the harbor, and also the river mouths. Large schools of lady fish can be found outside the bars feeding on glass minnows, this is also a good place to locate feeding tarpon. If the tarpon are there you will know, trust me. They will make their presence known. If you would like to experience some of Southwest Florida's finest fishing? Give us a call our trips are customized to fit your party's needs.
Summer Fishing
By: Capt. Bart Marx
So far this year it has been hot and the waters in our area have been near ninety degrees. This makes it tough when you are fishing in the shallow waters Lemon Bay, Boca Bayou, Pine Island Sound, and to the Sanibel Causeway. It also makes it difficult to find fish as they tend to hide in the shade. Working the edges and mangroves you will find those pockets under the mangroves where it is a little bit deeper, and the water may be slightly cooler. This time of year, it is easy to find the white bait /green backs and make it easier for you to find fish. With the heat of the water and overcrowding, the oxygen in the water gets depleted quickly and this can kill your bait. If you use fresh bait, you will find reds, snook or trout hiding under the mangroves. And if you get some of the big threadfin baits you may have a chance to hook a tarpon. If you catch a snook, red, trout and a tarpon that would be an inshore Grand Slam and that is an accomplishment! Going offshore, there should be lane and mangrove snapper from the forty to seventy-foot range on the small ledges that are out in the Gulf. With newer electronics, it’s like cheating. Back in the day, I remember my friend Capt. Dan had a paper fed fish finder. And you could tell when it was working well you could smell the paper burning! Now everything is digital and there is 3D and pan optics, and side scan. I do have a side scan Garmin and I have found better spots within 100 ft. of some of my good numbers offshore. It is easier when it is hot to bottom fish offshore as it is a bit cooler down there and at the 100 ft. range there should be some red grouper and going to some of the artificial reefs, there should be some yellow tail snapper. You will need some good chum and be on your A game, the guys in the gray suits will come to collect taxes along with some cudas there too. In Southwest Florida, there is not much chance of getting a cuda that may be unfit to eat. The rule of thumb that I have lived by if it is longer than your arm it will do you harm. And over the years I have had plenty, you can prepare it any way that you like. If you are new to the area and need a training session, call Capt. Bart Marx at 941-9796517 or e-mail me at captbart@alphaomegacharters.com
This is my way of helping newer anglers learn where they can take their boats and how to use some of the gear you already have. This will shorten your learning curve and help preserve our grasses and oyster bars.
Fishin With Brycin
By: Brycin
Red Fish (Red Drum) are beautiful fish with that signature black spot near their tail. Some reds have multiple spots, and although reds are open all year here in the Fort Myers area, the best times to fish for redfish are May through November. This is their spawning season, and this is when the fish start to move to the flats and up into the mangroves. Red fish grow really fast, they grow about 0.5mm a day in their first year. FWC local regulations Slot Min 18” to max 27” bag limit 1 vessel limit 2.
There are several ways to catch reds. Sight fishing flats, looking for them tailing. Pitching live or artificial baits around the mangroves. Fly fishing is becoming a favorite for me as of lately. Artificial, I like to use the NLBN mini mullet or the 3-inch paddle tail. I like to throw those around the mangroves. Fishing the flats, I use popping cork or a free line white bate or shrimp. Fly fishing, I throw a sand bar mullet, Captain Greg or just a white fly.
Looking for something fun for the summer, the CCA Florida Star Tournament runs through September 2nd. Tagged red fish can earn you prizes, maybe even a boat. All while supporting a great cause. Check it out online at www.ccaflorida.org
Captain of the month: Reel Tales FMB : Captain Rodney, 239-898-0333
Captain Rodney is a well-known and respected local captain that always scores high on the fun meter. Reel Tales FMB has a lot to offer. Hands down, you will have one of the best days on the water that you have ever had when you book with Reel Tails FMB! If fishing is not your thing, no worries. Capt. Rodney offers many different guided tours such as shelling, eat at a restaurant only accessible by water, paddle boards, a sunchill floating ring to relax in. Birthdays, bar hopping, bachelor parties are all better on the water. Check out the website www.reeltalesfmb.com facebook.com/Reeltalesfmb or call for more info.
By: Capt. Terry Fisher
Great Opportunities
August is a great month to expect to catch a variety of fish including the ‘fish of a lifetime’. However, be aware of the dangers from scorching heat. Anglers have been dealing with extreme heat indexes for over the last several months. Heat also affects the depths that fish will likely be found for both inshore and offshore species.
My recommendation for inshore fishing is to fish in the mornings, as the air heat and water temperatures will not be as torrid. The only suggestions I have for offshore is go early on a calm day and depending on the species and size, go far and deep for the larger grouper and snappers. August will provide lots of opportunity for catching redfish around the mangrove islands and oyster beds. Over the past three years, FWC and Coastal Conservation released thousands of redfish fingerlings in Charlotte and Lee Counties. Other anglers and I have been the beneficiaries of those efforts! The great thing about the summer months is that water levels (tides) are very high throughout most of the days every other week during August. The redfish will migrate toward mangroves and oyster bars on incoming tides to feast on the small shrimp, crab and other morsels during the higher water levels. Snook and mangrove snappers will be lurking around as well. I recommend that anglers take advantage of the higher tides and stronger currents to catch fish. Fish with crabs, shrimps, ladyfish, pinfish and pilchards.
The best bet for snook, will more than likely be found off the beaches, under docks and around the passes of Boca Grande, Cayo Costa, North Captive and Sanibel Islands. These fish will be in both troughs depending on low or high tides. On high tides, they will be cruising and eating closer to the beach and seawalls. Conversely, on the low tide they will be in the secondary trough. Their favorite live bait will likely be pilchards, although they like live ladyfish and pinfish. Seatrouts are the easiest fish to catch. There are lots of them in the grass flats from 3-6 ft. of water. Their favorite live baits are shrimp, but they can be easily caught on artificial presentations. I prefer live baits with my charter clients under a cork with a leader and hook just long enough to suspend the bait about the Turtle Grass. Mangrove Snap-
pers and Sheepshead are mostly found around some sort of structure such as, docks, rocks, bridge pilings and mangrove trees. Small bait hooks with shrimp will do the job.
If you head offshore, lots of summer storms will spoil and curtail trips if not planned around them. There are a lot of small fish such as grunts, grouper, and snappers throughout our region within 10 miles. Lots of action and fun on calm days. However, to get to the bigger fish, anglers need to plan to fish farther out due to water temperature in the gulf being so high. Thirty to forty miles will provide 85-120ft. depths and if the bottom structure is good the bigger lanes, greys (mangrove snapper), yellowtail and grouper will be caught. A lot of marked reefs and wrecks are within this range for some good action, but they do get a lot of fishing pressure. Anglers looking for even bigger fish like the american red snapper, dolphin, tuna, black and gag groupers will likely find them 50-70 miles out in 140-170ft. of water.
I suggest that anglers with doubts or little experience should consider doing what I have done over the years and that is to continue to:
1. Read articles and fishing magazines, as you’re doing now, to get overall and specific advice on what works and when it works for others, then try it.
2. Go out with a buddy/friend that you know is somewhat or very successful at locating and catching fish.
3. Bet ter yet: Hire a guide, that’s what I did and still do, who is willing to share locations and techniques that will ensure your success with finding and catching fish. I recall my earlier days in Florida, Cayman Islands, Bahamas and Belize, whereby I made a point to fish with the best fishermen in those areas. I watched and learned what they did, then combined their knowledges along with my efforts to be the best that I could be!
4. Do what you know that has works for you.
5. Com mit and experiment on a limited basis during each trip to see if new offerings and techniques work out.
The Heart of Summer
By: Capt. Billy Norris
Temperatures in the 90s, daily afternoon storms to cool it off, and calm seas make summer an excellent time to get out on the water! Currently, we have no issues with red tide, hurricanes, or any other summertime surprises. Both backwater and offshore have been producing quality fish, and it doesn’t show any signs of slowing down.
To start, bait has been relatively easy to get your hands on. Chumming the grass flats has been producing pilchards and pinfish. If you’re looking for something a little bigger, the beaches have large schools of pilchards moving up and down the coasts. Look for them in the trough just offshore from where the waves are breaking on the shoreline. For threadfins, I’ve been finding plenty of them offshore in 18-25 foot of water. I’ve been able to get them with a big net, but if you can’t throw a big offshore net then a Sabiki rig works as well.
The backwaters are fired up with the usual summer suspects and there have been plenty of snook chewing pretty much anywhere you look. Mangrove shorelines, passes, and the beaches have all been producing some quality fish. The trout bite has also been great. For trout, drift the flats using either live shrimp or an artificial imitation, I prefer either gulp shrimp or a DOA. Suspend the bait under about 3 feet of 20-30 pound leader and snap it across the flats. Trout have been aggressively taking that setup, as well as some mixed in pompano. In addition to snook and trout, some redfish have also been making an appearance. The water is still a little bit warm for reds, but as we move into fall that action should pick up.
Offshore has been on fire and the nearshore wrecks and reefs have been producing a variety of species. This past month we’ve caught tarpon, cobia, snapper, jewfish, gag grouper, sharks, big reef snook and more. Live baits are always the go to, but if you can’t catch bait, try your luck with frozen.
Further offshore, the red grouper bite has been great! Don’t forget, red grouper closed on July 1st, so may want to wait to target them until they open back up. American red snapper have also been eating well. For whatever reason, the bigger fish seem to be a little farther offshore this year, with most of the larger individuals coming from 90+ miles offshore. However, the 40-60 mile range has been producing as well. We’ve been catching plenty of big mangroves, flag yellowtail, african pompano, all types of grouper, cobia, and some humbling sized sharks. A trip offshore this time of year can be very productive, although you need to make sure to keep your eye on the weather. From June through September, it is the norm to have a beautiful morning, followed by building clouds, and finally a short but heavy thunderstorm in the afternoons. Make sure you keep your eye on the sky if you’re running far!
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Mutton Grande
By: Jessica Harris
There’s nothing like seeing that rod bend and scream as a big fish takes off with your bait. Recently, I had quite the experience with a huge mutton snapper in Puerto Rico and it’s a story worth telling. It was a warm and sunny day off the reef in the PR. It was calm for the most part and the perfect sea breeze was going on. The all-around perfect fishing day. I love when the weather actually cooperates! I was fishing with live bait and not exactly expecting to catch a mutton snapper, let alone a big one like this. I was leaning more towards the yellowtails so I could cook and prepare those for us when we got back to the house. But it took a turn. Everyone on the boat could see the fight was on as soon as it bit. Once we started to see color, we could tell it was a mutton. Unfortunately, at this time, mutton snapper were protected so we couldn't enjoy the tasty fish that it could have been but
I’m happy we got to safely release her and let her bring more babies into the world. I was able to snap a few photos and watch everyone smile as I proudly held her up. It was her time to shine! Mutton Snappers are truly beautiful fish. So bright and colorful. This specific catch actually taught me a lot. It taught me the importance of patience and admiration. It’s remarkable how each fishing trip can teach you something new every time. Catching this beautiful fish was a highlight in my fishing world. It’s moments like these that make all the early mornings, hours of preparation and waiting and traveling to each spot worth it. I can’t wait to get back there with my family, see our old new friends and see what else the PR waters has in store for us. It may have been my first time there, but it surely won’t be my last. Until next time, Puerto Rico fisheries! Happy Fishing!
Moving Parts
by: Dan Carns
Long gone are the days of having a thirty-five pound sit inside (SI) kayak with nothing more than a fixed seat and a paddle. Today’s fishing kayak, the Sit on Top (SOT) is likely to have a bunch of moving parts as well as a whole slew of screws holding tracks, brackets and bungie tie downs. These kayaks are getting more and more complicated and may now have motor mounting brackets which believe it or not are vibrating the connections loose. I mention this as I’m seeing a lot of on the water failures, and I thinks a lot of this may be due to the lack of simple maintenance.
Before your next outing take the time to retighten all the screws on the entire craft. Do not use a screw gun to tighten them as they can strip out easily. Hand tighten till snug and if you suspect water is by-passing the screws back them completely out and add a little silicone to the hole. This will additionally help the screw from backing out in the future. Speaking of maintenance, especially if you are kayaking in salt water make sure to hose your kayak down with freshwater. Take care to flush any bungees or nylon seats and mounting brackets. Flush all the metal parts in particular.
The drive systems in these new kayaks have a bunch of moving parts that are cable or chain driven and absolutely need tightening and care. If you spend a lot of time on the water, consider how many times you drive your paddles back. Also think about how hard you are driving the foot pedals and the wear and tear this is contributing to the cables. I carry spare drive and chain cables in my storage area as I can sometimes be many miles from the launch and if my drive system fails it could be tough making it back to shore. Spend some time getting familiar with just how the drive cables and chains work so that your prepared to work on them either in the water or on an unfamiliar shoreline. Tighten all the set screws as well as any hex bolts. Check for chain wear or individual cable strand separation.
If you have additionally added mounting brackets, ensure that they are also tightened. Don’t forget that the rials for these add-ons also get loose and need to be tighten often, especially camera boom tracks. Now that you’ve spent some time tightening all these connections, I would recommend that you make up a small tool kit with the various size nut drivers, box wrench, Allen wrench (depending on whether they are Standard or metric), and any Philips tip screw drivers. Keep these in an absolutely waterproof bag or box and if they get wet do not put them back in until they are totally dry.
Wit h a little care, familiarity, and maintenance you can be confidant that your next kayaking trip will be trouble free!
It’s A Wild World-Get Out There!
@paddlinandfishin
Dan Carns
Calusa Blueway
By: Mike Hammond
Located on Sanibel Island, Tarpon Bay is one of the places I find myself most often recommending to tourist and locals. When approached for a reference, I’ll usually ask what they are most interested in experiencing and their skill level. For beginners, Tarpon Bay is hard to beat. While the bay is rather large, it offers good protection on windy days. If the wind in the open bay becomes too challenging, paddlers can hug the mangroves and paddle into the marked mangrove tunnel trail and relax.
Also, Tarpon Bay Explorers is onsite to help beginners get in and out of the water, give paddling tips and offers eco tours that are recommended for paddlers of all levels. For visitors who list wildlife viewing as a priority, Tarpon Bay is again the top destination on my list. You can never make guarantees with wildlife, but I usually feel confident recommending Tarpon Bay as a great place to view manatees. Also, Sanibel is world renown as a top birding destination. Watching the wading birds fly in and roost in the bay at sunset is an experience that should not be missed.
There are several mangrove tunnels along the Calusa Blueway, but many of them may not be recommended for everyone. That’s not the case at Tarpon Bay. Its Commodore Creek Kayak Trail is an open, well-marked path through the mangroves with a nice canopy and you can get the mangrove tunnel experience without feeling claustrophobic.
Tarpon Bay Explorers not only rents paddle craft and leads, fishing, eco
and sunset tours, but it also runs a gift shop that has many of the things you might need for your paddle as well as souvenirs to remember your day. Tarpon Bay Explorers is a participant in the Calusa Blueway Challenge in which you can earn 100 points for visiting the site with an additional 300 points for renting a kayak or SUP.
The Calusa Blueway Challenge is a gamified passport that participants can play all year long. Setting up your passport is free and easy. Just go to www.visitfortmyers.com/CalusaBluewayChallenge to get started. When you open your passport, you will see a list of “Places To Go.” Checking in with your mobile phone at each place or experience will earn you points for chances to win prizes.
Tarpon Bay Explorers, including the launch, is open Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. It cost $7 per vessel to launch your own SUP or kayak; parking and use of the facilities are free.
Each visit to Sanibel shows visible progress and more businesses reopening after Hurricane Ian. For a complete list of places to eat after your paddle, check thesancapguide.com. They have status updates o restaurants, parks, hotels, shops. Tarpon Bay and Tarpon Bay Explorers were hit hard by Ian, but they are coming back. Head out for a great paddle and earn some Calusa Blueway Challenge points.
Roseate Spoonbills Are Finding New Nest Sites
Roseate Spoonbills are among the most stunning and recognizable birds along Florida’s shores—their bright pink plumage with deep pink wing accents, orange tail feathers, and spoonshaped bill make them easy to identify. Unfortunately, the spoonbill’s feathers were highly prized by plume hunters and the species nearly disappeared from Florida by 1900.
These iconic birds live in freshwater and saltwater wetlands from Florida to Texas and through much of South America. Thanks to efforts by Audubon, spoonbill numbers have rebounded significantly since the plume trade was outlawed at the turn of the 20th century, but today loss of habitat risks their future. Historically, their primary Florida nesting sites were in Florida Bay, but changing environmental conditions in recent decades, particularly increased salinity and water levels, are causing many of them to find new locations for breeding. Spoonbills feed by sifting through the muddy substrate in shallow water, seeking out small fish, crustaceans, and aquatic insects. During breeding season, Roseate Spoonbills need water depths below 13 cm in order to catch their fish prey efficiently—this concentration of food
is critical as they feed their voracious chicks. Additionally, when their habitat becomes too salty due to reduced freshwater flows or saltwater intrusion, the fish community changes to include more nonnative species like cichlids. Cichlids eat many of the smaller native fish and grow too large to fit in young spoonbills’ mouths.
Audubon’s Everglades Science Center has studied Roseate Spoonbills since 1939. Today, scientists use cutting-edge technology to provide a bird’s-eye view of spoonbill movements and nesting across the Sunshine State. New tools include trail cameras with motion sensors placed on nests to collect data while minimizing disturbance to the birds, and the use of cellular tracking devices to better understand the effects of a changing climate, sea-level rise, and Everglades restoration on these charismatic Florida birds.
Audubon data and analyses guide common-sense restoration and water management decisions to improve habitat for spoonbills, fish, and other wildlife. Look for Roseate Spoonbills during your fishing adventures!
Roseate Spoonbills that fledged from their nest sites in Tampa Bay. Photo: Jeff Liechty/Audubon Florida.
Capt. Terry
guests having a great time catching!
Fisher
Jorge Prieto with a nice tarpon caught on fly in Matlacha.
Matt Shields showing off a 38” snook out of Everglades City.
Big smiles and ready for a fish fry! from Pale Horse FC
RJ caught this nice jack in a canal behind his house.
Steve Couch with a couple of mahi on the troll, Abacos, Bahamas.
Savannah Spedding w/ a 31” gag grouper caught 21 miles off Sarasota.
Cody Freemire’s 4 YO son is proud to show off his catch!
Mason Sosa is showing off his redfish.
Returns to Orlando Sept. 5-7
Surf Expo, the premier watersports and coastal lifestyle tradeshow, returns to the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla., from Sept. 5-7, 2024. Held in the West Concourse, the September event features an expansive selection of exhibiting brands and an exciting lineup of events and networking opportunities.
“We are thrilled about the array of exhibitors that will be at our upcoming September event,” said Surf Expo Show Director Roy Turner. “From the established major brands to the next wave and start-ups, retailers will be able to meet face-to-face with key players and fnd the next new.”
to the preservation of our environment and coastal waterways.
“Surf Expo allows retailers to preview styles from fshing and marine products, top surf brands, hard goods, apparel, footwear, swimwear, boutique fashions, and souvenirs,” adds Turner.
Retailers attend Surf Expo to stock their shelves for adventures on or near the water and fnd the gear and goods to keep customers coming back for more. Whether it is surfng, paddling, fshing, hiking, camping on the beach, wake surfng, tubing or simply soaking up the sun, Surf Expo has everything needed to cater to customers with a passion for waterborne thrills, outdoor adventure or just the sun-loving beach vacationer.
Te Shoreline category at Surf Expo is the hub for brands that specialize in inshore and ofshore apparel and accessory products; sportswear, technical apparel and gear, footwear, outerwear and hardgoods as well as games and accessories to transition from a day on the water to stretching out on land. Tis helps target businesses associated with outdoor amenities and recreation found in lake and beach towns nationwide and ofers crossover opportunities for buyers and manufacturers alike.
Te Surf Expo show foor is organized by product category with complementing cross-selling categories in adjacent aisles making it easy for retailers to navigate so they can easily discover the newest brands and products in person, all while making purchasing decisions.
Chris McCotter from Lake Anna Outftters, Virginia, refects, “As frst-time attendees, we did not know what to expect beyond a strong recommendation to attend from a supplier. Te show was exactly what we needed to take our shop to the next level with the merchandise and brands we wanted to stock.”
A wide range of both returning and new exhibitors will be represented that cater to the watersports, coastal life and outdoor industry such as; ORCA Coolers, GCI Outdoor, Teva, Xtratuf, POP Board Co., Salt Life, Hurley, CHUMS, Salty Crew, Captain Fin, Dark Seas, Howler Brothers, Rip Curl, SUNSKI, Deep Blue Gear, Fish Hippie, Jetty, Hook & Tackle, O’Neill, Reel Skipper, I-SEA Sunglasses, Chubbies, Vissla, Tommy Bahama, DIFF Eyewear, Katin, Outerknown, Free Fly Apparel and many more.
In September, Surf Expo will feature a full schedule including daily fashion shows, retailer learning labs, industry networking events, happy hours and parties.
For more information about the show visit www.surfexpo.com.
50,000 Plus Anglers Strong Promoting TakeAction Initiatives For Preserving Our Fisheries And Supporting Our Community.
At 18’2” in length and with a 70” beam, the Mosquito is a very capable hull for many situations – however it’s designed to do one thing with absolute perfection: silently stalk inshore game fsh in the shallowest coastal waters.
BUST A GULF COAST SCALLOP REPORT
Scallop season is underway for most of Florida’s Gulf Coast, and the reports we are getting so far are mixed—but mostly good—with some areas experiencing outstanding scalloping in terms of numbers, size and water conditions.
Scallops are regionally managed by the state, so diferent zones along the Gulf Coast have diferent seasons, with most remaining open well into September. Tere’s still plenty of time, plenty of scallops and plenty of places to go if you’re interested in an underwater egg hunt. Keep in mind, weather and water conditions can change quickly, and it can dramatically change the prospects for fnding bay scallops. Plan your trip accordingly.
Starting down south in Pasco County, the Anclote River area is apparently on fre this summer. Following a mediocre season last year, we’re hearing people rave about quick limits and good-sized scallops coming from shallow water. Te season opened July 10 in the Pasco Zone, and early on at least one person called it the best scalloping she’s ever experienced. Tese are big scallops, too, and we’ve heard talk of throwing back legal-sized scallops to fnd bigger ones. In mid-July, the shells were in as little as 4 feet of water, and with such a good early season, there should be some lef up until the season closes Aug. 16.
Just to the north, Hernando County scallopers were of to a slow start, but a little farther up the coast, the Crystal River to Homosassa area was very productive. We’re hearing reports of scads of scallops in as little as 3 feet, with a majority of boats concentrating in the 7-foot depths. Te size has been good, and it has apparently been difcult to fnd an undersized shell. With good weather and water conditions, good scalloping should hopefully last until the season closes Sept. 24.
We are also hearing good things farther north out of Keaton Beach and Steinhatchee, where the scallops are apparently very thick and close, although they might be trending smaller this year depending on your location. Limits in an hour or less were reported, with scallops hanging out in grass at 3- to 6-foot depths. Te Fenholloway-Suwannee River Zone opened June 15 and will close on Labor Day.
In the big bend, reports have not been great out of the St. Marks area, where heavy freshwater infux, low salinity and poor clarity are being blamed for scarce fnds during the early season. Some are pointing to better days ahead in late summer. As wind and water conditions change, scallops holed up in the 15-foot depths sometimes shif closer in, where they are easier to fnd. Te Franklin-NW Taylor County Zone remains open until Sept. 24.
Finally, over to Gulf County and Port St. Joe, the season opens Aug. 16 and runs through Sept. 24. Tere’s nothing yet to report, but historically this zone has been a good late-season option for grass fats that haven’t been picked over yet.
For seasons and regulations, go to MyFWC.com.
Commercial Gear for Anglers!
on high alert, and the noises of the day silenced, the bites can be startling and give the impression that the fsh is larger than it is. Tat’s part of the excitement of a topwater bite! I only use this tactic in areas I know well, for safety reasons, of course.
I know wading isn’t for everyone, and night wading is for even fewer anglers, but there are other methods. Fishing from a dock, boat or kayak are all good options. Focusing on dock lights, causeway lights and lighted piers can provide excellent fshing. Many canal homes have lights, both underwater and above the surface, that attract baitfsh, which attract the gamefsh we target. I’d say trout are the most prolifc, but reds and snook can be found mixed in with trout if you have them in your area. I like to target these areas with smaller lures, either a sof-plastic rattling paddletail or a small, hard, lipped bait with or without rattles. I prefer natural colors in some shade of white or clear with some silver mixed in.
I also enjoy fshing granite jetties at night. Setting up for this is a little more work but can yield terrifc results. When jetty fshing, I bring a generator and two 1,500-watt stage lights. Tese areas typically have more current, so my hard-lipped lures may be slightly larger, but I still go with the smallest lure I can work properly in the current. I stick with the same colors as mentioned earlier. Te channel and surf side of the rocks can both be productive depending on the tide, water clarity and bait. I recommend pointing one light in each direction until you determine which area has the best conditions.
Fishing at night brings new challenges, but it can ofer some of the best catches of the summer. If you decide to give one of these three methods a try, remember safety frst and don’t fsh alone. Enjoy some cooler times on the water and be safe.
Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures®, and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.
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STUD AJ IS A SOUTH CAROLINA RECORD!
Fishing out of Murrells Inlet on May 23, angler James Carroll battled in a 129-pound amberjack that is a new South Carolina state record. Here is the story in Carroll’s own words:
We set out from Murrells Inlet, S.C. at the crack of dawn, heading ofshore to the Winyah Scarp area, about 60 miles out. Our goal was to catch some mahi or wahoo. Afer a few hours of trolling along a weed line and the ledge without success, we decided to move closer in and try bottom fshing.
We relocated to a spot about 50 miles ofshore in 100 feet of water. I switched to a Connley Fishing kingfsh rod paired with a Penn Fathom 40, rigged with 80-lb. Momoi Diamond Braid and a two-hook bottom setup.
At this location, we caught vermilion snapper, black sea bass, grunts and porgies, sometimes two at a time. It was a productive day. I began waiting afer getting a bite, hoping to hook a second fsh. While doing this, something big hit the line without getting hooked.
Finally, I hooked a monster fsh. Afer about 45 minutes of fghting, I told my great friend and captain of the Liberty Call, Gordon Jobe, to put the boat in gear to help bring the fsh up in the water column. Around the one-hour mark, we landed what turned out to be a South Carolina state record greater amberjack.
Using a Garmin InReach, we contacted friends onshore to check the state record weight for South Carolina. Tey replied with 123 lbs. We knew we had surpassed that mark but had to wait a few hours to confrm.
Back at the dock, we went to Seven Seas Seafood Market in Murrells Inlet, S.C., to weigh the fsh on their certifed scales. Te fsh weighed in at 129 lbs. and measured 69 inches in length. Afer certifcation by Kris Reynolds, of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, the crew at Seven Seas processed the fsh for me.
For more giant fsh, go to coastalanglermag.com
Throw Yourself a Bone
The very best hunting knives possess a perfect balance of form and function. They’re carefully constructed from fine materials, but also have that little something extra to connect the owner with nature. If you’re on the hunt for a knife that combines impeccable craftsmanship with a sense of wonder, the $79 Huntsman Blade is the trophy you’re looking for.
The blade is full tang, meaning it doesn’t stop at the handle but extends to the length of the grip for the ultimate in strength. The blade is made from 420 surgical steel, famed for its sharpness and its resistance to corrosion.
The handle is made from genuine natural bone, and features decorative wood spacers and a hand-carved motif of two overlapping feathers— a reminder for you to respect and connect with the natural world.
This fusion of substance and style can garner a high price tag out in the marketplace. In fact, we found full tang, stainless steel blades with bone handles in excess of $2,000. Well, that won’t cut it around here. We have mastered the hunt for the best deal, and in turn pass the spoils on to our customers.
But we don’t stop there. While supplies last, we’ll include a pair of $99 8x21 power compact binoculars and a genuine leather sheath FREE when you purchase the Huntsman Blade
Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. Feel the knife in your hands, wear it on your hip, inspect the impeccable craftsmanship. If you don’t feel like we cut you a fair deal, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the item price. Limited Reserves. A deal like this won’t last long. We have only 1120 Huntsman Blades for this ad only. Don’t let this beauty slip through your fingers. Call today!
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• 12” overall length; 6 1/2” stainless steel full tang blade • Genuine bone handle with brass hand guard & bolsters • Includes genuine leather sheath
