You want new charts?
You got new charts! Explore the ocean with vibrant terrain & depth shading, using all-new TZ MAPS. Don’t just take our word for it. See for yourself. Scan here, and we’ll show you!
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!
Huntsman Blade $249* Offer Code Price Only $79 + S&P Save $170
1-800-333-2045
Your Insider Offer Code: HBK249-01
You must use the insider offer code to get our special price.
Stauer® 8x21
Compact Binoculars -a $99 valuewith purchase of Huntsman Blade
What Stauer Clients Are Saying About Our Knives
“This knife is beautiful!”
— J., La Crescent, MN
“The feel of this knife is unbelievable...this is an incredibly fine instrument.”
— H., Arvada, CO
Rating of A+
14091 Southcross Drive W., Dept. HBK249-01 Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com
*Discount is only for customers who use the offer code versus the listed original Stauer.com price.
California residents please call 1-800-333-2045 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product.
• 12” overall length; 6 ¹⁄2” stainless steel full tang blade • Genuine bone handle with brass hand guard & bolsters • Includes genuine leather sheath
navigating peace of mind
THE IMPORTANCE OF BOAT INSURANCE
Embarking on the open water is an exhilarating experience, flled with the promise of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a weekend cruiser, protecting your vessel with proper insurance is not just a choice—it’s a necessity. Explore the reasons why every boat owner should prioritize boat insurance for a worry-free voyage.
Unpredictable waters
The open water can be unpredictable, with unexpected storms, collisions, or other potential accidents. Boat insurance can give you fnancial protection if there is damage to your vessel, providing coverage for repairs or replacement.
Damage and injury
Accidents on the water can result in damage to other boats, docks, or even injuries to passengers. Boat insurance offers liability coverage, which can pay for damages or injuries you’re liable for while boating, up to specifed limits, and lawsuit costs if you’re sued. This includes damage you cause to another watercraft or if someone on or near your boat is injured and you’re found to be legally responsible.
Theft and vandalism
Unfortunately, boat theft and vandalism are realities that boat owners face. Boat insurance has comprehensive and collision coverage that can protect you against events outside of your control, including theft and vandalism.
Incurred medical payments
Accidents on the water may lead to injuries for you or your passengers. Boat insurance offers a range of optional medical payments coverage limits, helping to cover medical expenses if you are in an accident or someone is hurt on your boat, regardless of fault.
Peace of mind for fnancing
If you fnanced the purchase of your boat, most lenders require insurance coverage to protect their investment. Having boat insurance not only fulflls these requirements but also gives you peace of mind knowing that your fnancial interests are safeguarded.
Navigational fexibility
Some water municipalities and marinas may require proof of insurance for docking or accessing certain areas. Boat insurance allows you the fexibility to explore different destinations without worrying about entry restrictions.
Emergency towing and assistance
Progressive boat insurance can include optional Sign & Glide® On-Water Towing coverage. If your boat is disabled or breaks down on the water, Sign & Glide® pays for on-water towing, jump starts, soft un-groundings, and fuel delivery.
Wreckage removal
If your boat sinks, Progressive boat insurance will cover the cost of removing your boat from the water (if removal is legally required).
Investing in boat insurance is not just about protecting a valuable asset; it’s about safeguarding the memories, experiences, and joy that come with your on-water adventures. Don’t let unforeseen circumstances disrupt your journey—navigate with confdence, knowing that Progressive boat insurance has you covered. Ensure a smooth and worry-free voyage, because when it comes to your boat, peace of mind is the ultimate luxury.
Scan to get a quote in as little as 4 minutes
learn more.
Bill Dance Signature Lakes O er Impactful Improvements to Tennessee’s Fishing Waters
Frdom
A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE ‘MEDIA FISHING INDUSTRY’
By David Haggard & Heather Lose
LBy Ben Martin, Editor in Chief
et me !rst say that I am in no way a historian, nor has this material been researched to ensure its accuracy. is is simply my observations and my humble opinion of how and when the sport of !shing gained its foothold toward becoming America’s favorite pastime. Certainly, !shing had been a popular sport prior to its initial media welcoming in the 1960’s, but in my opinion its explosive growth can be traced to three events that catapulted it into its current National appeal.
Event #1 — ABC’s Wide World of Sports carries a marlin shing episode. Curt Goudy and Jim McKay hosted ABC’s Wide World of Sports and its popularity with a wide range of sports enthusiasts was viewed as a major success. However, by the sixth episode it was apparent that the show needed fresh material to keep their audience engaged so they put their cameras on a 62 . Hatteras to capture footage of a marlin catch and the world opened to the beautiful and extreme nature of o shore !shing. Viewers said to themselves, “I want to do that!”
Representatives from Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, and Tennessee State Parks celebrate the ribbon cutting of the Bill Dance Signature Lakes project at the Bassmaster Classic in Knoxville on March 25, along with the project’s namesake. Photo Courtesy of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development:
Event #2 — e Walker’s Cay Chronicles with Flip Pallot
Avid angler and creator of Hell’s Bay Ski s, Flip Pallot, developed a series of television shows called e Walker’s Cay Chronicles. In each episode Flip would narrate the pursuit of bill!shing in the Bahamas. His colorful description of “the shimmering waters” helped to romanticize the allure of sport!shing as something akin to an art form and, once again, people said to themselves, “I want to do that!”
Event #3 — Bill Dance begins lming his bass shing and tournament successes and becomes a national celebrity. And, one more time, people said to themselves, “I want to do that!”
e inertia that these three media events created caused an explosion in the !shing industry. e manufacturing and media industries jumped in to !ll the demand and meet the needs of a rapidly growing national pastime. Both entities have ever since been inextricably linked in a symbiotic relationship that has experienced continued rapid growth and a constantly growing demand for new products and new media outlets. And for that, Coastal Angler Magazine and e Angler Magazine salute ABC, Flip Pallot and Bill Dance, catalysts for making !shing America’s most popular pastime.
Check out some of the new products featured in this holiday edition of Coastal Angler Magazine and e Angler Magazine for gi ideas for your favorite angler.
Happy holidays!
HOLIDAY FOR ANGLERS GIFTS
Reel in the Perfect Holiday Gifts for Anglers and Outdoor Enthusiasts!
The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than by showing the anglers and outdoor enthusiasts in your life that you truly understand their passion? Finding the right gift can feel as tricky as reeling in a trophy fsh, but fear not! We’ve got some fantastic ideas that will have them casting their lines with glee.
As the holiday season rolls around, remember that the best gifts come from the heart. Whether it’s a high-tech fshing gadget, some fshing apparel or even a new boat or motor, these thoughtful presents are sure to delight the anglers and outdoor enthusiasts in your life. So, cast your line into the sea of gift ideas...you’re bound to reel in something special!
DRESSED TO KILL & FULLY LOADED
The quest to find the ultimate men’s watch has traditionally been a difficult one in the world of fashion. A timepiece with the perfect look and functionality has long been the goal of both watch designers and enthusiasts alike.
The Renegade Blue Chronograph Men’s Watch is the perfect combination of style and function. With a sleek design that features a bold blue dial, rose gold hands and hour markers, and a durable sports silicone band, this timepiece will instantly elevate any outfit.
The three sub-dials provide a precise timekeeping function. The sports silicone band is durable yet comfortable, providing a secure fit that won’t slide around on your wrist. The band is also easy to clean and maintain, making it perfect for everyday wear. The watch’s 30 Metre Water Resistance rating ensures that it has you covered whatever the occasion.
The Renegade Blue is also built to last, with a sturdy stainless steel caseback and exquisitely detailed bezel. The watch is powered by a super reliable quartz movement, which is covered by our incredible 5 Year Movement Warranty - ensuring accurate timekeeping for many years to come!
At the amazingly low price of just $99 plus S&H, this watch is an absolute steal. Don’t miss out on the chance to own the Renegade Blue and Rose Gold Chronograph Men’s Watch - order yours today!
A FISHING CHARTER IS THE PERFECT HOLIDAY GIFT
If you’re searching for the ultimate holiday gi! for an angler, consider giving them a shing charter experience with a professional guide or charter captain. is gi! goes beyond typical shing gear; it’s an opportunity for adventure, skill-building, and unforgettable memories on the water.
A guided shing charter o ers the chance to sh in prime locations, o!en with access to secret spots that only locals know about. A professional guide or captain will lead the way, providing expert knowledge on local sh species, seasonal patterns, and specialized techniques. For anglers who love the thrill of landing big sh or are eager to explore new waters, this experience can be transformative.
Fishing charters also provide top-of-theline equipment and tackle, making it easy for anglers to focus on catching sh rather than gathering gear. Guides are well-versed in local regulations, making it a hassle-free experience without the worries of permits and licensing.
Whether the angler in your life is a seasoned pro or just starting out, a shing charter can be tailored to any skill level. It’s a personalized gi! that brings both relaxation and adventure, combining nature’s beauty with the excitement of a shing quest. is Christmas, give the gi! of a shing charter from one of our vetted Coastal Angler Magazine/ e Angler Magazine writers and you’ll be gi!ing an unforgettable experience every angler will cherish.
For more details, visit coastalanglermag. com or theanglermag.com and select the region where you’d like to sh, or you can easily nd a local captain’s contact info inside our print publication below their monthly shing forecast.
TRACY PATTERSON
PHOTOS COURTESY OF FIRED UP FISHING CHARTERS
customers customers in Catch more
Fishing Galveston Bay in December: Tips for a Successful Winter Catch
As December settles over Galveston Bay, anglers can expect excellent fishing opportunities with cooler water temperatures ushering in productive conditions. Whether you’re targeting flounder, trout, or redfish, the key to success is understanding where to fish and what to use during this season of change.
Flounder Season Reopens
The highlight for many this December is the reopening of flounder season on December 15th. These popular flatfish often congregate in shallow waters near oyster reefs, drop-offs, and creek mouths. Anglers should focus on areas with slow-moving currents, where flounder lie in wait for prey. Live shrimp, mud minnows, or soft plastics are effective bait options. Flounder are more likely to be found in deeper depressions along shell reefs, so anglers should target these areas for the best results.
Trout and Redfish Patterns
As the water cools, trout and redfish will move to deeper, more stable pockets of the bay. Trout tend to gather near the mouths of bayous, deeper channels, and drop-offs. For best results, use live bait such as shrimp or mullet, but soft plastics or topwater plugs are also effective, especially in the early morning or late evening when trout are actively feeding. Redfish, on the other hand, are still abundant in the shallows of Galveston’s marshes and along the bay’s edges. Target sandbars, mudflats, and spoil islands with live baits like cut mullet or finger mullet, or soft plastics. Redfish are known for their aggressive strikes, making them a thrilling target.
Structure and Habitat
In December, fishing around structure is crucial. Shell reefs, rocks, and mud flats provide shelter and attract baitfish. These areas are especially productive during cooler months, as the hard surfaces of shell reefs and
rocks retain heat, drawing in fish. Mud flats are ideal for redfish, which forage for crustaceans and baitfish, while shell reefs are prime for flounder, which often lie camouflaged near the edges or in deeper pockets.
Bird Activity and Hot Spots
Working birds, particularly gulls and terns, can help locate feeding fish. These birds are often found above schools of baitfish, drawing in predatory species like trout and redfish. Look for bird activity around the Galveston ship channel, jetties, and the deeper sections near Bayou Vista, which are typically hot spots for winter fishing.
Bait and Lures
Live shrimp, mullet, and soft plastics like Gulp! or paddle tail swimbaits are excellent choices for trout and redfish. For flounder, slow-rolled jigs or soft plastic flounder rigs work best. In the cooler waters of December, fish tend to be less aggressive, so slow, deliberate presentations are key. Scented lures and natural baits are also effective. Topwater lures are an exciting option for redfish during early mornings or late evenings, when they are more likely to strike.
December in Galveston Bay offers a variety of fishing opportunities. Whether you’re targeting flounder, trout, or redfish, understanding fish behavior and habitat preferences will lead to a successful trip. Keep an eye on bird activity, use the right bait, and enjoy the quieter, productive waters of the bay this winter.
SALTWATER FISHING JOIN OUR CLASS TO MASTER
HELD IN PEARLAND, TX
Walk-in
Anahuac Pocket-The Golden Goose
The other day, my friend Mike and I set out to catch speckled trout near the far end of Trinity Bay. One moment, the water was calm, and the next it erupted as a massive trout lunged for my Assassin lure, its gaping yellow mouth and canine teeth mesmerizing. The strike was fast and furious, splashing water everywhere as the fish dove beneath the boat, testing the strength of my custom rod. Mike quickly grabbed the landing net, ready for action.
Despite our efforts, the trout wasn’t ready to be caught. It made several powerful runs away from the boat, but eventually, we managed to slide the net under the exhausted fish. That morning, we caught several trout, ranging from 18 to 23 inches, though we couldn’t find any redfish.
Trinity Bay, the largest body of water in the Galveston Bay complex, boasts miles of shoreline and deeper open water. It’s home to numerous oil and gas rigs, as well as live oyster reefs, making it a prime spot for both boaters and wade fishermen. This natural nursery is filled with speckled trout, redfish, and flounder, but its fame largely comes from anglers throwing topwater baits for trophysized trout. Weekend anglers would benefit from hiring experienced guides to better navigate the area, as lures like MirroLure and Assassins are consistently effective.
Live bait is always the percentage call on any water. Shrimp, finger mullet, and croakers will always
produce at the right time. While live bait is not always easy to find and is expensive, most fishermen will either buy it, net it, or simply not go fishing. Despite the challenge of acquiring live bait, there’s a certain allure about Trinity Bay that inspires anglers to try their luck with artificial baits. The tales of massive trout caught on topwaters and Corkys often circulate among the fishing community. However, Trinity Bay does face challenges, particularly from the annual influx of fresh water from the rivers, which can alter the fishing conditions. In recent years, anglers have reported catching freshwater stripers and bass as well. Still, when conditions are right, Trinity Bay offers some of the most consistent fishing along the Gulf Coast. With attention to the moon phases and tides, and a lull between those hot summer days and winter fronts, success is often just around the corner.
As I plan my return to these waters, I remind fellow anglers to cherish their experiences and share their knowledge with others. See you on Galveston or Trinity Bay, near Little Hodges. God bless our land and those who defend it for our enjoyment outdoors.
9
8
5
6
7
4
1 Sun 8:54 1.1 1:07 -0.3 6:55 5:21
2
3 Tue 3:31 1.0 10:40 1.0 2:21 1.0 2:21 -0.3 6:56 5:21
7:01 5:22
11 Wed 1:57 0.8 5:09 0.9 10:13 -0.1 11:22 0.7 7:02 5:23
12 Thu 2:04 0.8 6:15 1.1 10:53 -0.4 7:03 5:23
13 Fri 2:10 0.8 7:11 1.1 12:56 0.8 11:35A -0.5 7:03 5:23
14 Sat 8:03 1.2 12:19 -0.6 7:04 5:23
15 Sun 8:56 1.1 1:05 -0.7 7:04 5:24
16 Mon 9:51 1.0 1:53 -0.6 7:05 5:24
17 Tue 10:50 0.9 2:41 -0.5 7:06 5:25
18 Wed 11:50 0.9 3:29 -0.4 7:06 5:25
19 Thu 4:16 -0.3 7:07 5:25
20 Fri 12:36 0.8 5:01 -0.1 7:07 5:26
21 Sat 1:00 0.7 5:45 0.0 7:08 5:26
22 Sun 1:12 0.7 11:52A 0.4 10:01 0.4 6:32 0.2 7:08 5:27
23 Mon 1:20 0.6 2:41 0.4 9:55 0.2 7:46 0.4 7:09 5:28
24 Tue 1:25 0.6 4:46 0.6 10:06 0.0 10:14 0.5 7:09 5:28
25 Wed 1:27 0.6 5:48 0.7 10:23 -0.1 7:10 5:29
26 Thu 1:20 0.6 6:25 0.8 12:10 0.6 10:44A -0.3 7:10 5:29
27 Fri 6:58 0.8 11:10 -0.4 7:10 5:30
28 Sat 7:32 0.9 11:40 -0.5 7:11 5:30
29 Sun 8:09 0.9 12:14 -0.5 7:11 5:31
30 Mon 8:51 0.8 12:51 -0.6 7:11 5:32
31 Tue 2:57 0.8 1:18 0.8 1:30 -0.6 7:12 5:32
1 Sun 12:35 -0.4 6:56
1.1 10:07 -0.4 7:03 5:23
Fri 9:36 1.1 10:48 -0.6 7:04 5:23
Sat 10:50 1.2 11:34 -0.7 7:05 5:24 15 Sun 12:24 -0.8 7:05 5:24
Reminiscing of the Past
Stepping out of my truck, I was met by a chilly wind brought on by a recent cold front. Retrieving my foul weather jacket from the back seat, I braced for the crisp morning. Making my way to the dock where my boat was kept, I noticed my customers had just arrived. Dressed appropriately for the weather, these seasoned anglers greeted the cold with cheerful banter. As they gathered their gear, I offered a nod in response to their comment about the chill.
Pausing to load their items into the boat, I remarked, “Luckily, we don’t have a long boat ride this morning.” We eased out of the slip and navigated into the bay, steering starboard around the point toward a sheltered area known for its winter bounty of trout and redfish. Despite the Northwest wind gusting over 15 knots, the water conditions were favorable for our day ahead.
As the sun broke above the horizon, it painted the sky in deep orange hues, creating a stunning backdrop. We drifted between the numerous piers and old pilings that dotted the shoreline. The first couple of hours yielded little in terms of bites. However, as the sun climbed higher, illuminating the waters, our luck began to change. We began to catch a few fish, thanks to the gradual warming of the water.
Though the action never became frantic, we salvaged a decent day under post-frontal conditions.
The winter fishing grounds lie between Eagle Point and April Fool Point, offering everything fish seek during this season— close deep water, mud, and oyster-covered bottoms, plus ample structure. The rocks and mud retain warmth, creating slightly elevated water temperatures, while the old pilings serve as ambush points for predators, which tend to slow down in the colder water.
My bait of choice during this time is soft plastics rigged with a 1/16 to 1/8 ounce jig head. I favor Bass Assassins for their soft pliability, followed closely by the reliable MirrOlure and the Corky. While live shrimp can attract their fair share of strikes, they often become scarce in the colder months. However, Eagle Point usually has shrimp available when other bait camps are out, reachable at 281-339-1131.
As we approach the New Year, let’s embrace the blessings of 2024. Happy New Year to everyone!
Captain David Dillman fishes out of Eagle Point Fishing Camp, which is centrally located on Galveston Bay
galvestonbaycharterfishing.com
HOUSTON | GALVESTON | UPPER COAST
BRAG BOARD
Matagorda Forecast
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone! I hope you all had a blessed holiday season and enjoyed time with your families. Although my time on the water decreases during the winter, I still relish the opportunity to fish between cold fronts. The East Bay is known for producing numerous trophy trout during these months.
In this article, I will discuss tactics for targeting winter trophy trout. Everyone dreams of catching the big one to display on their wall, but achieving this isn’t easy. It takes hours on the water, carefully studying patterns, along with a bit of luck. Most in the fishing community consider any trout over 25 inches to be a trophy. Due to current regulations, you can only take a couple of photos of fish that size. However, with the population increasing, we hope that size limits will return to normal, allowing anglers a better chance to land that coveted wall-hanger. While many prefer a traditional skin mount, a replica can also be made using a few measurements. This way, you can release the fish back into the water for another exciting fight.
To target these trophy fish, I recommend using a Corkie or subsurface lure. After a cold front, when the wind calms, I typically fish during the midday hours. I look for shorelines with mud, as it warms up faster than sandy areas and retains heat. Additionally, areas with tide movement and active baitfish are advantageous. Larger fish tend to eat less frequently in colder weather, so they often seek out a bigger meal. Using larger bait can help attract these bigger fish. Patience is essential—I have waded for hours and only managed a few bites, but often, it’s the bite you get that truly counts!
Warmer temperatures are just a couple of months away for those of you who prefer the milder weather.
THE BEAN POLE: AMiniRodforBigAdventures
Who doesn’t love a good challenge? !at’s what draws so many anglers to light tackle for catching big sh. Mini rod shing takes it up a notch, turning the thrill of landing a monster into an even more rewarding experience. Mini-rod shing is all about having fun and enjoying the thrill of the catch!
At just 33 inches total, the Bean Pole isn’t just a mini in size, it’s the real deal in the world of shing. With a new edition released every year with cool colors and features, this little rod combines style, functionality, and fun all in one sleek package.
!e beauty of the Bean Pole is in its convenience. Slip it into your car, backpack, or even your kayak, and you’re ready to chase sh wherever the road takes you. Perfect for spontaneous road trips or shing in those hard-to-reach spots, this mini rod is your trusty sidekick for any adventure. While there are other “mini” rods on the market, ones over 36 inches fall more into the slow-pitch jigging category and are not considered real mini rods. !e Bean Pole, on the other hand, is a true mini rod at 33 inches. It’s designed for nimble casting and quick action, making it perfect for those who want a genuine mini experience without the extra length. Made from pure carbon ber, the Bean Pole is as lightweight as it is strong.
Don’t let its size fool you; this rod packs a punch! It’s designed to tackle everything from giant bull sharks to he y goliath groupers and, yes, it’s just as e ective at reeling in smaller species like snook and yellowtail snapper, giving it a ton of versatility!
e Bean Pole retails for $65 and is available at beansport shing.com.
SUZUKI MARINE’S DF2.5: Small in size but big in features. Weighing just 30 pounds, the portable and versatile DF 2.5HP outboard motor is the lightest Suzuki Marine USA 4-stroke motor ever built. This smooth, quiet engine is water-cooled for increased dependability, features a digital CDI, and its anti corrosion system ensures the aluminum propeller stays durable in marine conditions.
TIS THE SEASON TO BE JOLLY… FA LA LA LA LA
Christmas week, in my opinion, is the peak of bottom shing season, and there are plenty of reasons why. One of the biggest factors is the congregation of bait schools, like cigar minnows and sardines, which are some of the best baits available. Other reasons include the spawning aggregations and the cooler water temperatures. Speaking of bait, grouper (and American red snapper) can’t resist a few others if presented right: pin sh, sailor’s choice, and even small beeliners and other little snappers. !ese baits are so tempting because larger sh like grouper and snapper see them as egg-eaters. !ey devour them not only as a food source but also to protect their future o spring from these egg thieves. If you present these baits correctly—and avoid using bulky tackle— they’re simply too enticing to resist.
intelligent. Not all grouper species are equal in terms of smarts: red grouper are pretty naive, scamps are sharper, and gags are the brightest. !ey don’t become males, or black bellies, by being careless. Like other animals, sh learn to avoid obvious traps. !ey recognize mono, threeway swivels, heavy bank sinkers clanking on the bottom, and so on. It’s time to step up your game and target their instincts.
Personally, I use my weight as a “decoy,” making it resemble a crab or squid. !is setup involves a 4-foot piece of oro, a small 130-pound Spro swivel, and 50-pound braided line. I also color the rst 5 or 6 feet of high-vis (yellow) braid red with a Sharpie. (See my video on YouTube for a demo.) All these details matter for the overall presentation. !e
Let’s talk tackle. Forget mono lament altogether! I’ve spent a lot of time observing my tackle underwater, and mono is much more visible than uorocarbon. Compared to mono, oro is nearly invisible, which makes a di erence. Next, think carefully about the weight and terminal tackle you use to get bait to the bottom. While three-way rigs were a classic for years and will still catch younger (female) grouper, it’s a di erent story when they grow up. Once female grouper mature, they undergo a transformation and become males. When these gag grouper turn male, they also reach a size where we call them “black bellies.” !ese male grouper—especially black bellies—are
“Decoy Jig” is like psychological warfare; it taps into the sh’s hardwired drive to attack struggling or injured prey. !e Crab Decoy Jig, for example, looks like a crab holding on to a struggling snapper. To a wary grouper or big snapper, that’s an irresistible “Happy Meal.” I came up with the Crab Decoy Jig a er gutting thousands of grouper and realizing that their diet mostly consists of small red and reddish-brown crabs, tiny snappers, cigar minnows and sardines.
!e gag grouper and American red snapper populations are stronger than they’ve been in years—just ask any diver! But to catch them consistently, you need to improve your presentation. If you’re not catching gags and scamps with your old “chicken rig,” it doesn’t mean there aren’t any grouper around. !ey’re just not falling for poorly presented bait.
For a closer look at my setup, visit my YouTube channel.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
See more from Tim Barefoot at www.barefootcatsandtackle.com and on YouTube @timbarefoot5698.
Tim Barefoot
ANGLERS LAND NEW IGFA WORLD RECORDS
The International Game Fish Association (IGFA) tracks record sh catches around the globe. Here are a few highlights from their newly approved world records.
To see all newly approved IGFA world records go to igfa.org.
Shapiro’s Red Drum
On July 8, 2024, Shawn Shapiro was shing the Chesapeake Bay out of Norfolk, VA, when he landed this massive 45.7-inch red drum. Shawn was shing with a live croaker aboard his father’s boat “Sea Mes” when this record red sh struck. With this sh Shawn has set the IGFA All-Tackle Length Junior World Record for the species. A er recording the length and snapping a few photos, he was able to release the sh safely.
Martin’s
Brown Trout
On May 17, 2024, Vicki Martin landed a stunning 4-pound brown trout while shing the White River in Arkansas. !is catch has earned Vicki the IGFA Women’s 2 lb. Line Class World Record for the species. With the help of guide Craig Yowell, Vicki landed the record trout a er a six-minute ght.
Fox’s Northern Pike
On June 29, 2024, Peter Fox was shing out of Brabant Lodge in Northwest Territories, Canada when he landed this impressive northern pike. Peter was using a prop y when the pike struck and was able to boat the sh a er an intense ght. !e sh measured 43.3 inches, earning Peter the IGFA All-Tackle Length Fly World Record for the species.
Gredysa’s Summer Flounder
On May 12, 2024, Jan Gredysa was Shinnecock, NY, when he landed this 22.4-inch summer ounder. With this has set the IGFA All-Tackle Length Junior World Record for the species. Jan was casting a Fin-S lure when this record ounder struck and was able to land the sh a minute ght.
Te Gold Rush of 2024
ImpossiblePriceWas $299, Now
Glimmering 24k gold in a tungsten setting
Ah, my dear compatriots, allow me to share a tale of intrigue and fortune. Picture this: a venture into the heart of a South American goldmine, where the earth yields its treasures to the daring and the cunning. With every step as we follow Diego, our mining master, the air thickens with anticipation, the scent of wealth mingling with the thrill of the unknown.
Tere, amidst the darkness, lies the prize we seek — veins of gold, glimmering like stars in the night sky.
Now picture this: a ring, not just any ring, mind you, but a masterpiece crafted to adorn the fingers of the discerning. Crafted with meticulous care, each piece encasing ribbons of 24 karat gold in a Tungsten setting, whispering tales of luxury and prestige.
“Been
Meticulously crafted and amazingly comfortable, you will not find anything like this in a jewelry store. As gold prices skyrocket, we have been able to craft this and hold the price under $100 making it exclusively available with only 495 reserved for this ad. And of course we offer a 30 day no questions asked guarantee.
Yanacocha Gold Mine, located near Lima, Peru, is the largest gold mine in South America and the fourth largest in the world.
SOLD OUT IN HOURS NOW BACK IN STOCK
A symbol of power and sophistication. Tis isn’t just a ring, it’s a statement. On any adventure, let this ring be your companion, a silent witness to your every triumph. Ahhh… the rush of a gold rush.
Jewelry Specifcations:
• 24k gold embedded in black-finished tungsten
• Whole Size 8 -14
Men’s Gold Rush Ring
$299 $99* + S&P Save $200
*You must use Insider Offer Code GRR161-01 to get this price.
