WINTER FISHING TIPS
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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
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Be Your Own Boss!
If you love the outdoors and dream of being in business for yourself, now is the perfect time to make a change and choose a Coastal Angler or e Angler Magazine Franchise.
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MAHALO, RODNEY...
By Ben Martin, Editor in Chief
On December 11th at 3:00 p.m. the marine industry lost one of its kindest and most heartfelt supporters. A lifelong supporter of environmental awareness, the love of nature and teaching kids how to !sh, Rodney Smith was the earliest proponent of Florida’s groundbreaking net ban. He was the founder and publisher of the original Coastal Angler Magazine, creator and tireless volunteer of its Hook Kids On Fishing Program. Capt. Rodney Smith spent the better part of his life trying to improve the marine environment and sharing the wonders of the art and sport of !shing.
Rodney’s love and kindness was boundless.
Lifeguard, !shing captain, surfer, author, entrepreneur, and friend to all, Rodney Smith’s time on this earth was well spent helping others and showing love to Mother Nature and the marine environment.
Anyone whoever walked with Rodney would have invariably returned with a bag or pocketful of trash that he picked up along the way and then a erwards meticulously separated for recycling. Anyone whoever disparaged anyone else in Rodney’s presence would have immediately heard something positive about that person from Rodney. at’s just who he was.
Loving father, caring husband and faith driven entrepreneur, Rodney’s life was truly exemplary and saintlike. He will be missed, but he will also surely receive the same pat on the back and heartfelt “Good Job” that he gave to so many others while here.
The Water
Those Who Seek Simplicity & Smooth Performance On The Water
Powered by twins, it runs over 30 knots and cruises efficiently at 20-30 knots. It’s a versatile, no-frills boat focused on rock-solid performance. Ideal for those needing a reliable, easy-to-maintain platform.
Hightlights
Powered by twins, the 20CC runs over 30 knots and cruises efficiently at 20-30 knots.
It’s a versatile, no-frills boat focused on rock-solid performance. Ideal for those needing a reliable, easy-to-maintain platform.
Whether you’re fishing in a kayak, canoe, or small boat, the ePropulsion eLite 500W redefines your on-water experience with innovative features and commitment to sustainability. Designed to be the most
and lightweight electric outboard in its class, it is an easy-to-use alternative to small internal combustion engines for enthusiasts worldwide. Max 5.6 miles at half throttle and 3.5 miles at full throttle. Experience the eLite Difference. Go Electric. Go Silent. Go Fishing!
DISCOVER BOATING MIAMI INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 2025
A BOATER’S PARADISE AWAITS
The Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show (DBMIBS) is set to return from February 12–16, 2025, bringing an extraordinary showcase of the marine industry. is annual event continues to draw boating enthusiasts, industry leaders, and newcomers alike, o ering a combination of innovation, and community.
Highlights of the 2025 Edition
Spread across six iconic Miami locations—Miami Beach Convention Center, Pride Park, Herald Plaza, Venetian Marina, Museum Park Marina, and Superyacht Miami at Yacht Haven Grande—DBMIBS provides a multifaceted experience.
e Miami Beach Convention Center and Pride Park will host the latest in marine technology, boating gear, and vessels up to 49’’. On the water, Herald Plaza and Venetian Marina will feature a lineup of vessels, from sleek center consoles to high-performance powerboats.
A Boating Community Experience
e Progressive Boat Show Experience promises an engaging lineup of seminars, boating classes, and the popular AquaZone, an interactive space where attendees can test products and gain hands-on skills. For those looking to elevate their visit, Windward VIP tickets grant access to exclusive lounges, curated dining options, and concierge service.
Digital ticketing ensures a seamless entry process, with water taxis making it easy to explore the show’s sprawling venues. Water taxi tickets are sold separately.
From anglers to luxury yacht a!cionados, the show caters to all corners of the marine world. With its rich blend of exhibits, educational opportunities, and waterfront allure, it remains a must-visit event on the global boating calendar.
For more details and ticket options, visit www.miamiboatshow.com.
Cold Water Winter Fishing for Trout in the Smoky Mountains
By Joe Woody
When winter descends upon the Smoky Mountains, the streams and rivers transform into a serene and picturesque setting. For avid anglers, this season o ers a unique and rewarding opportunity to !sh for trout. Cold water !shing in the Smokies during winter demands preparation, knowledge, and patience, but the solitude and satisfaction of hooking a trout in these crisp conditions make it all worthwhile.
Trout are cold-water !sh, and they remain active during the winter, albeit at a slower pace. eir metabolism decreases as water temperatures drop, making them less aggressive and more selective in their feeding habits. During this season, trout tend to conserve energy by holding in deeper pools or near submerged structures where currents are slow and food is more accessible.
e Smoky Mountains, known for their pristine streams and diverse aquatic habitats, provide excellent winter !shing opportunities. e recent storm damage has not changed that, although access and former topographical structuring may be somewhat altered the !sh have adapted and so will anglers. Rainbow, brown, and brook trout can all be found in the cold, clear waters of this region, with brook trout being particularly prevalent in the higher elevations.
Winter !shing requires careful planning to ensure success and safety. e Smoky Mountains can get bitterly cold in winter. Dressing in layers, including moisturewicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outerwear, is crucial. Gloves and a hat are always a must: Nymphs, midges, and small streamers are excellent choices for winter trout !shing. Patterns like the Zebra Midge, Pheasant Tail, and Woolly Bugger o en prove e ective. Since aquatic insect activity is minimal in winter, imitating small and slowmoving prey is key.
clear, low water conditions. Using light tippets (5x or 6x) and uorocarbon leaders can improve your presentation and increase your chances of a hookup.
Focus on deeper pools and areas with slow-moving water. Dead dri ing nymphs under an indicator or slowly
Winter trout can be extra wary due to the
Townsend, this stream is a favorite among anglers for its healthy populations of rainbow and brown trout.
• Deep Creek: Known for its easy access just outside Bryson City, this area o ers a true remote !shing experience with just a short walk up its trail.
• Abrams Creek: Featuring clear waters and ample trout habitat, Abrams Creek is a reliable option for winter anglers
Winter trout are o en more active during the warmer parts of the day. Plan your trip to coincide with midday or early a ernoon. Low, clear water makes trout more alert to movement and noise. Approach the stream cautiously and keep a low pro!le. As any angler in these parts will tell you, always be mindful of slippery rocks and cold water. Wearing wading boots with good traction and a wading belt is essential.
retrieving a streamer can entice a bite. Pay attention to subtle strikes, as trout in winter o en feed so ly.
e Smoky Mountains are home to numerous streams, many of which are accessible year-round. Some top spots for winter !shing include:
• Little River: With easy access near
Fishing for trout in the Smoky Mountains during winter is a serene and ful!lling experience. e combination of tranquil surroundings, reduced crowds, and the challenge of cold-water angling creates an unforgettable adventure. With the right preparation and approach, you can enjoy the magic of winter !shing and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Matagorda’s Winter Bounty
Most fisherman take these winter months to repair our gear. With the summer months taking a toll on equipment it’s time to work on things. Cold weather and water temperatures make the fish and fisherman sluggish. No better time to get things back in working condition. Hopefully everyone got their Christmas wishes left under the tree. After repairing everything I get bored. It’s time to chase a Big Girl. I like to get out between the cool fronts midday. The wind is calm and mud flats warm up with the sun. Bigger trout don’t feed as frequent. They will eat a larger bait. I will tie on my favorite corky and pull it across a mud bottom. Patiently waiting for a big one to eat. Might not get many bites but when you do it’s a good one. I have caught some of my personal best trout this time of year.
For those who don’t have the patience, red fish are always plentiful in the back lakes off the canal. Mullet on the bottom will always stretch the line out. Drifting deep shell in the boat with plastics is productive. Use heavier lead head to reach the lower water column. The Colorado River is always an option when weather conditions sour in the bay. Speckled trout migrate to the deeper confines of the river for warmth. Working deeper drop offs will pay off.
I hope you and yours had a wonderful Christmas and have a happy new year. Let’s go fishing.
Navigating Winters Clutch
As winter grips the coastal waters, the behavior of Speckled Trout significantly changes, affecting how anglers target them. A memorable outing in South Texas illustrates this concept well. On a much-anticipated fishing trip, my buddy and I planned to wade fish in waist-deep flats. However, the coldest front of the year hit just before our arrival, dropping the water temperature to a frigid 38 degrees and forcing us to cancel our original plans.
Strong north winds blew out the tide, leaving the shallows barren and devoid of baitfish. Despite our chilly hands, we persevered and decided to fish in a nearby deep channel, casting slow-sinking lures and soft plastics. By the day’s end, we had caught a small redfish and an impressive 8-pound Speckled Trout, a moment that made the cold worthwhile.
On the second day, the weather slightly improved with diminished winds. We explored several deep dead-end channels nearby rather than venture far from the ramp. Here, we found a successful day of fishing, landing around 40-50 trout, most weighing between 2-4 pounds, with a few larger specimens. The subtle bite required our jigs to be slowly bounced along the bottom. As the sun warmed the waters, the trout’s behavior changed; they vacated the channels in search of the warmer open bay once the threat of freezing subsided.
This experience underscored a crucial lesson: during extreme cold, trout seek refuge in deeper channels not out of the desire to feed but for survival. Targeting these areas can yield significant catches if timed correctly, especially when hunting for trophy trout. The most productive times for fishing can often be aligned with solunar tables, which outline fish feeding
MyCoastOutdoors@yahoo.com www.MyCoastOutdoors.com
cycles. Initially skeptical during my youth, I later saw the merit in studying these tables alongside tidal movements. While they are not a foolproof guide to fishing, I found that fish tend to become more aggressive during the specified feeding times.
The solunar tables distinguish between “major” and “minor” feeding times, with the significant lasting two hours and the minor about 1.5 hours. Both can yield equally intense fishing experiences. For optimal results, I suggest planning each trip around these times. Even if the initial fishing spot proves unproductive, patience can lead to breakthrough moments when the fish becomes active, particularly during solunar peaks.
While no method guarantees a catch, combining favorable conditions— such as tide, wind, water clarity, temperature, bait presence, and brushing up on the solunar tables—dramatically heightens the chances of landing those elusive gator trout. By aligning your fishing efforts with these natural patterns, you can substantially improve your odds when battling the winter chill in pursuit of trophy Speckled Trout.
Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures®, and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.
Photo courtesy of Knockin Tail Lures®. Get Inhaled®
The Skuta 24’ Cat Catch the #1 Boat on the Water
An Exclusive Interview with Chris Berry, Founder of Skuta Boats Built For Battle MADE FOR FISHING
146 FM 519 Suite 1B
La Marque, Texas 77568
Phone: 281-815-2090
info@skutaboats.com skutaboats.com
Q: When did you start building the first Skuta Boats?
Chris Berry: We started our first boat in late 2021 and completed it in 2022.
Q: What prompted you to build Skuta Boats?
Chris Berry: As a USCG fishing guide, I often found myself struggling to find the perfect boat—none ever seemed to meet the mark. I knew about the Southshore molds and their exceptional ride quality, which sparked an idea. With that solid foundation, I decided to take the plunge into building boats that truly deliver on performance, reliability, and value.
Teaming up with skilled builders and experienced marine mechanics in the area, we set out on a mission to craft quality boats at reasonable prices. This journey has been fueled by a passion for the water and a commitment to creating boats that meet the real needs of guides, anglers, and boating enthusiasts.
Q: Can you tell us a little about the journey?
Chris Berry: Before purchasing the Southshore molds, I took the time to consult with trusted marine repair shops and like-minded business professionals. Their insights were invaluable in shaping my approach. With a clear vision and a deep understanding of the boats’ potential, I assembled a skilled team of fiberglass technicians who could bring this vision to life. Finding the right talent was crucial. After securing a qualified fiberglass technician, we began building our first boat. To ensure quality and performance, we tested the initial builds in our own charter fleet, using realworld conditions to identify areas for improvement.
Fast forward to today, and our boats are now in the hands of professional fishermen, charter captains, and recreational enthusiasts. We’re proud to see them out on the water, proving their reliability and performance. Feedback remains at the core of what we do—we continuously gather input from users to refine and improve our designs, ensuring each boat meets the highest standards.
Q: How or where can someone buy a Skuta Boat?
Chris Berry: Skuta Boats can be purchased directly from us. As a manufacturer-dealer, we eliminate the middleman, which allows us to offer more personalized service and a wider range of custom options to fit your specific needs.
Q: Tell us about some other services you provide.
Chris Berry: In addition to building boats, we offer a range of fiberglass repair services. These include:
• Simple polish and wax
• Bottom jobs
• Transom repair
• Insurance claim handling
• Full boat restoration
Q: What’s new for Skuta Boats?
Chris Berry: We’re excited to introduce our newest addition to the fleet: the Skuta Cat model. This versatile design offers various setups to meet a wide range of needs, whether you’re a tournament angler, a family looking for adventure, or a guide seeking the perfect workhorse.
Final Thoughts
Chris Berry’s dedication to building reliable, performance-driven boats comes from years of firsthand experience on the water. His journey with Skuta Boats exemplifies the balance between passion, expertise, and userfocused design. Whether you’re an angler, a professional guide, or just someone who loves boating, Skuta Boats is making waves as a trusted name in the industry.
You can learn more about Skuta Boats at https://skutaboats.com/ or call 281-815-2090.
Winter Fishing Urges along the Texas Coastline
The dark, overcast skies suggested it might not be wise to fish without keeping a close eye on the horizon. The East Side of Galveston Bay was off-color from the recent north wind, and Trinity Bay was blown out, with water levels one to four feet low. It would have been easy to cancel our plans, but the urge to be on the water was too strong. After several days of watching the wind and rain, our fishing fever had reached a critical point.
Conditions being what they were, Duane and I left Moses Lake Marina in search of clearer water and some salinity. When we arrived in Dickinson Bay, we were pleasantly surprised to find the water in fair shape. Unfortunately, my spot wasn’t exactly a secret. Several other boats were already working the reef we had planned to fish, including one on a favorite redfish hole. Even though no one seemed to be catching much, it was encouraging to see other “die-hard” fishermen still out there.
The outgoing tide was flowing across the oyster reef, carrying mud and water. We set up our drift on the downwind side, using the north wind to skirt the reef’s edge. Armed with Bone Diamond Bass Assassins and Down South White Ice, we found solid flounder action. Bouncing the tails off the bottom near where the reef and mud met, we landed several good flounders in the 2–3-pound range (all released due to the closure). With our rods bent and line screaming off our reels, it was hard to ask for anything more.
Fishing conditions on the Galveston coast can change quickly this time of year. Whether it’s floodwaters from the Trinity River, tropical winds from the south, or an arctic blast, our bay system is often hit hard. Fortunately, the system is resilient and the bay bounces back every year. The key is that those of us who view fishing as a significant part of our lives find ways to cope with less-than-ideal conditions.
High winds often force cancellations, but some trips can be salvaged by knowing where to go. While safety should always come first, protected shorelines, coves, canals, and bayous often provide safe fishing opportunities. Looking at a Hook & Line map can reveal several spots perfect for windy days. Of course, if the wind is accompanied by black clouds and lightning, it’s probably a good time to catch up on those “honey-do” chores instead.
CAPT PAUL MARCACCIO
T.P. & W. & USCG License Marcaccio Fishing Academy captpaul@gofishgalveston.com www.gofishgalveston.com
Some of my best fishing experiences have occurred in cold, miserable weather. However, I realize not everyone shares that enthusiasm. Speckled trout, redfish, and flounder can often be found near deep holes. The surf may produce “bull” redfish, and after the blue northers subside, portions of the bay can come alive. High pressure and sunshine warm the shallow marsh flats and nearby reefs, creating ideal conditions for fishing.
When the floodwaters come again—and they will—it’s important to find areas with consistent salinity. The San Jacinto and Trinity rivers will have their impact, especially during heavy rains. The standard salinity on the Gulf Coast is about 10 parts per million of saltwater to fresh. Floodwaters from the San Jacinto and Trinity watersheds can affect our bay system the most. As the muddy water flows toward the Gulf, it follows the path of least resistance—down the ship channel, along the west shoreline to the Texas City Dike, and out through the jetties. Areas of the bay that don’t suffer this runoff may still hold concentrations of fish. Alternatives include fishing down the coast at Bastrop, Christmas, or Chocolate Bay. Even when conditions aren’t ideal, most days can be salvaged for those with a strong urge to fish Galveston Bay.
Another recent trip took me out with my good friend, Mike Heidemann, on a day that was unfit for fowl or game. The sky was a dull gray, with light rain pelting us as a gusting northwest wind made conditions even worse. We launched at Moses Lake Marina and ran northwest to the farthest part of the lake. The weather was miserable, but when I netted Mike’s 25-inch redfish, I realized how therapeutic a perfectly miserable day could be. Sometimes, the worst conditions turn into the most memorable moments on the water. Fishing on the Galveston coast is all about flexibility and persistence. While bad weather may lead to canceled plans, those who stick with it can often find success—even in less-than-ideal conditions. The key is to keep adapting, keep trying, and enjoy the adventure that comes with each trip on the water. May your family be blessed this year! See y’all on Galveston Bay.
Frank Rigby - Redfish
Duane LewisSpeckled Trout
Brett Edwards - Redfish
Jody Ramos - Trout
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www.USHarbors.com Eagle Point, Galveston Bay, TX - Jan 2025
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Record Keeping Knowledge Gained
The other day, Capt. Mike Williams and I were discussing fishing, as we often do, when he mentioned an intriguing question someone had asked him: “Can you catch a big trophy trout while wading the pier pilings under Galveston’s Pleasure Pier on calm days in the winter?”
Given Williams’ vast experience fishing Galveston’s beachfront, I knew he was the right person to answer this. Before our conversation, he had also reached out to Capt. Sammy Flores, a seasoned angler who has spent most of his time fishing the jetties and beaches around Galveston. Together, these two have logged more fishing hours in the area than anyone I know. Both have spent countless hours fishing what was once the Flagship Pier and is now Galveston’s Pleasure Pier.
Williams has meticulously kept records of his fishing experiences, particularly trophy trout catches in the Galveston area. He recalled, “On a May night in 1969, Lanny Mayers caught a state record speckled trout off the pier, weighing just over 13 pounds.” Flores shared his own memorable catch: “On January 1, 2002, I landed a 10-pound, 8-ounce trout off the north Galveston jetty.”
Williams himself has caught numerous trophy speckled trout over the years. One of his biggest catches, a 10-pound, 6-ounce trout, was caught in the surf at San Luis Pass on May 5, 1967, using live shrimp. Another notable catch was a 11-pound, 4-ounce trout from San Luis Pass in 1983, caught on an ivory-colored plastic jig.
So, how does all this information answer the original question about catching a trophy trout while wading the Pleasure Pier in winter? Well, to be honest, it doesn’t yet.
Williams began to consider the times when record-setting fish had been caught in the Galveston area. Looking through his log books, he noted that
832-228-8012
galvestonbaycharterfishing.com
most of the big catches occurred in spring. For example, he himself caught a 9-pound, 4-ounce trout, a 9-pound, 6-ounce trout, and saw a trout over 11 pounds, all during the first week of May from the Galveston north jetty. He also recalled Capt. Sammy Flores landing a 9-pound, 14-ounce trout between the Galveston south jetty and the Pleasure Pier in May.
Williams further explained that Raymond Berry of the Galveston Yacht Marina caught 10 speckled trout in one fishing tournament that totaled 73 pounds, all caught on April 26. “The majority of big trout are caught from late spring to early summer,” Williams said.
However, Williams has also seen unusual patterns in fishing, especially after a cold front. After the devastating 1989 fish-killing freeze, big speckled trout stacked up in the surf near the Galveston south jetty. Williams had great success catching trout in the 4-9 pound range using 51M Mirrolures in January. He witnessed a similar phenomenon in the 1960s, when a large school of trout appeared in the surf off the Quintana jetty in Freeport after another freeze.
To answer the original question, Williams said, “Based on my records, the best time to wade under the Pleasure Pier for trophy trout would be during the ‘Tides of Taurus’—from April 20 to May 20. During this period, an angler has a 90 percent chance of catching a big fish under good conditions.”
He added, “Catching a trophy trout in winter—December through March—is not impossible, but I would put the chances at only 10 percent under normal conditions.”
In fishing, as in life, I never say “never.” A select few anglers occasionally catch trophy trout in the surf off the Galveston Seawall during the dead of winter. When and where they do is something each angler has to figure out for themselves.
THE NEW YEAR BRINGS NEW OPPORTUNITY
Tim Barefoot
As winter deepens, cooler waters push more !sh o the beaches and toward the warmer edges of the Gulf Stream. With grouper and snapper now o -limits due to regulations, it’s time to shi our focus to productive species still on the table—trigger!sh, vermilion snapper (beeliners), and seabass. For those looking to venture even deeper, deepdropping remains an exciting option.
e December full moon o en marks a turning point in !shing. Grouper and speckled trout seasons wind down, leaving anglers to adapt to what the regulatory environment allows. Fortunately, the stacks of triggers, beeliners, and pelagics in deeper waters o er excellent opportunities. Start your search around the 150-foot mark and use your !sh!nder to locate promising spots.
Tools of the Trade
For precision !shing, modern tools like spot-lock trolling motors—such as the Rhodan or Minn Kota—are game changers. ese motors allow you to hover directly over schools of !sh with ease. However, they can be limited when deploying a kite, as the wind necessary for kite !shing can drain trolling motor batteries quickly. at’s
where anchoring, a classic yet e ective technique, comes into play.
Yes, anchoring may feel like a step back for those spoiled by spot-lock motors, but it’s a reliable method for staying on productive marks without straining batteries. Once anchored, consider adding a kite to your !shing arsenal. Kites are particularly e ective for enticing leader-shy species like yellow!n tuna and wahoo. When properly deployed, they minimize visible leader material in the water, o en resulting in immediate strikes.
Teamwork and Preparation
provide hardy, versatile bait. Supplement your live bait with cast-netted !sh to use as live chum or cut into chunks.
A sabiki rig is another indispensable tool. Jigging up live bait at your !shing spot o en produces exactly what predatory species are feeding on. Don’t hesitate to use small snapper, grunts, or other bait!sh you catch with a sabiki as o erings on your light line or kite. Wahoo, for example, have been known to eat everything from full-sized grunts to snapper. Frozen or fresh Spanish mackerel also make excellent bait for wahoo and tuna.
Successful kite !shing requires teamwork. Assign one crew member to manage the kite and bait while others focus on !lling the cooler with trigger!sh and snapper. Proper setup is essential. Bring live bait from inshore or nearshore waters; cigar minnows, sardines, pin!sh, and menhaden are excellent choices. A pin!sh trap can also
The
Experience Fishing during this time of year is about more than just !lling your cooler; it’s about enjoying the process and making memories. Whether you’re targeting bottom-dwellers like trigger!sh or keeping a light line out for the chance at a wahoo or tuna, the key is to stay adaptable and prepared. As always, take the kids along and capture plenty of videos of your adventures. Fishing is more than just a hobby— it’s a way of life.
For more from Tim Barefoot, visit barefootcatsandtackle.com and check out his YouTube channel.
Junior Angler Breaks World Record with Massive Payara
At just six years old, Nathan “Bibil” Barreto is already making waves in the angling world! On July 8, 2024, while !shing Brazil’s iconic Juruena River, Nathan landed an incredible 11.79-kg (26-lb) payara. is catch shattered the IGFA Men’s Smallfry World Record for the species.
Nathan hooked the record-setting payara using cut bait, showcasing his growing skills as an angler. A er verifying the weight on a certi!ed scale, he ensured the safe release of this magni!cent !sh. Nathan’s actions not only highlighted his talent but also demonstrated that conservation is a value no angler is too young to embrace.
What Are Smallfry World Records?
e International Game Fish Association (IGFA) has established guidelines for Smallfry World Records to encourage young anglers. Here’s what you need to know:
• Species: Records are maintained for the heaviest !sh of any eligible species.
• Age: Categories exist for male and female anglers aged 10 years and under.
• Weight: Fish do not need to be weighed on land, as long as the weight is veri!ed appropriately.
• L ine Class: Records are recognized for all line and tippet classes covered under IGFA rules.
• Other Rules: All IGFA International Angling Rules apply, except for the standard weighing requirement.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Encouraging young anglers to aim for world record catches—or simply to submit outstanding catches for consideration—o ers a fantastic opportunity to foster a love of !shing. e IGFA’s Smallfry division plays a vital role in promoting the sport among young enthusiasts.
Taking a kid !shing doesn’t just teach them valuable skills—it can improve their lives and create unforgettable memories. Who knows? You might even help them reel in a world record!
For more information on the IGFA Smallfry records division, visit www.IGFA.com.
Braid vs. Monofilament Fishing Line: Which Is Best?
Choosing the right !shing line is crucial for success on the water. Two popular options— braided and mono!lament lines—o er distinct advantages, and your choice o en depends on your !shing style, target species, and conditions. Let’s compare their strengths and weaknesses to help you decide.
Braided line stands out for its high strength-todiameter ratio. Its thin pro!le allows for less drag and greater line capacity on reels, making it ideal for deep-water !shing. For instance, a 30-pound braid can match the diameter of an 8-pound mono!lament. Mono!lament, while thicker, provides added durability and is o en preferred in situations requiring extra shock absorption, such as battling !sh with sudden, strong runs.
Braid has minimal stretch, giving it superior sensitivity. is makes it perfect for techniques like jigging or bottom !shing, where detecting subtle bites is crucial. It also enhances hook-setting power. On the other hand, mono!lament’s stretch acts as a cushion during hard strikes, reducing the risk of breakage.
Mono!lament generally o ers better abrasion resistance, making it a top choice in areas with rocks or heavy cover. However, it is prone to UV damage over time, which can weaken the line.
Braid is more resistant to UV exposure but can fray easily when rubbed against rough surfaces.
Braided line’s thin diameter and lack of stretch give it an edge for long-distance casting, especially in open water. However, mono!lament’s low visibility underwater makes it advantageous for targeting skittish !sh in clear water. To counter braid’s visibility, many anglers use a uorocarbon leader.
e choice between braid and mono depends on your needs. Braid excels in strength, sensitivity, and casting, while mono shines in shock absorption, abrasion resistance, and stealth. Many anglers carry both to adapt to various scenarios or use a braid mainline with a mono or uorocarbon leader for versatility.
Ultimately, knowing when to use each type can make all the di erence in your !shing success.
Praise for DiamondAura®
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How to Win at Love
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