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VOLUME 23 • ISSUE 273
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F R A N C H I S E
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EDITOR IN CHIEF : Ben Martin • camads@coastalanglermagazine.com VICE PRESIDENT : Tracy Patterson • tracy@coastalanglermagazine.com ART DIRECTOR : Rebecca Snowden • graphics@coastalanglermagazine.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR : Nick Carter • editorial@coastalanglermagazine.com WEBMASTER : Dmitriy Pislyagin • webmaster@coastalanglermagazine.com ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: Corporate Headquarters info@coastalanglermagazine.com • 888-800-9794
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BIG BEND : Mike McNamara • (850) 510-7919 • captmike@coastalanglermagazine.com BREVARD : David String • (321) 684-5888 • dstring@coastalanglermagazine.com DAYTONA/NEW SMYRNA BEACH : Don Meadows • (321) 436-5895 • donm@coastalanglermagazine.com EMERALD COAST/DESTIN/PENSACOLA : Scott Risher • (850) 428-0996 • srisher@coastalanglermagazine.com FLORIDA KEYS : Cliff Lumpkin • (305) 849-9093 • cliff@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT LAUDERDALE : Gene Dyer • (954) 680-3900 • gene@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT MYERS : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER MIAMI : Scott Deal • (561) 945-6999 • scott@coastalanglermagazine.com Monica Isaza-Deal • (561) 945-8899 • monica@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER ORLANDO : Phillip & Giselle Wolf • (407) 790-9515 • phillip@coastalanglermagazine.com LAKELAND & SUMTER : Mary Brasher • (352) 598-4219 • maryf@coastalanglermagazine.com NAPLES : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com NC FLORIDA/NATURE COAST : Cary & Lynn Crutchfield • (352) 372-4237 • crutch@coastalanglermagazine.com NE FLORIDA : Danny Patrick • (904) 742-4696 • danny@coastalanglermagazine.com PANAMA CITY/FORGOTTEN COAST : Randy Cnota • (229) 834-7880 • randyc@coastalanglermagazine.com PALM BEACH COUNTY : Barbara Ryan • (561) 373-8040 • barbara@coastalanglermagazine.com SARASOTA : Phil Prevoir • (239) 257-4684 • pprevoir@coastalanglermagazine.com TAMPA BAY : Chuck Atkins • (239) 464-5153 • chuck@coastalanglermagazine.com TREASURE COAST : Misti & Gary Guertin • (772) 285-6850 • treasurecoast@coastalanglermagazine.com flahama@coastalanglermagazine.com
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Cover Image Credits: (Clockwise from top left) Sailfish: Alphonse Fishing Co., Wesley Rapson; Bumphead Parrotfish: Alphonse Fishing Co., Andre Henn; Salmon: Scott Norton; Trout: Big Cedar Lodge; Bass: Nick Carter; Roosterfish: Francisco Mejias © 2017. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. Disclaimer: Coastal Angler Magazine / The Angler Magazine will not be held liable for injuries incurred while partaking in activities described herein, or for claims made against products or services provided by advertisers.
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FLY FISHING By Nick Carter
F
ly fishing for bonefish and permit might have originated on the flats of the Bahamas and the Florida Keys, but these islands hardly hold a monopoly on the style of fishing. In the Indian Ocean, about 1,000 miles off the east coast of Africa, there is an archipelago that claims the highest density of bonefish in the world on one of its outer island groups. The Alphonse Group is three small islets on the southwestern end of the Seychelles, a nation of 115 islands in gorgeous tropical waters northeast of Madagascar. Within the Alphonse Group, Alphonse Atoll and St. Francois Atoll offer more 10,000 acres of hard, white-sand bonefish flats as well as a lagoon with channels, finger flats and coral heads where fly fishers sight fish in clear water to more than 60 species of fish. There are characters familiar to Atlantic flats—bonefish and permit—and there are also species exotic to North American fly rodders, like milkfish, colorful triggerfish and seven species of trevally. Instead of tarpon, the Seychelles offer up the giant trevally, which can weigh in excess of 120 pounds. And with a 10-minute boat ride out of Alphonse Island, anglers can access reef species and big pelagics like sailfish, wahoo, dorado, dogtooth and yellowfin tuna. Either trolling or teasing them up and casting flies to them, these offshore species offer a delightful break from the flats as well as a dinnertime treat on the island. “The Seychelles has become known as the best giant trevally fishery in the world and has become the benchmark for anglers searching for an outstanding saltwater flats fishing experience,” said Keith RoseInnes, managing director of Alphonse Fishing Company. “The sheer numbers and variety of fish species has amazed the fly fishing world, with anglers from across the globe queuing up to sample this ultimate fishing playground.” St. Francois is most well known for its bonefish, with ridiculous
numbers of 4to 6-pound fish and the occasional 8-pounder in the mix. “On falling tides, it is often the case that huge shoals of bonefish can be targeted when leaving the flats in what has been described as a continuous river of bonefish,” said Rose-Innes. “You hunt them on foot and not from a skiff, as the sand flats are hard and white.” It’s also as close to a sure thing as it gets for anglers seeking the Holy Grail of saltwater fly fishing. Good numbers of Indo-Pacific permit populate the flats, and Rose-Innes said his guides have near-perfected the art of catching them. Along with natural environs conducive to awesome fishing, a strong conservation ethic ensures an incredible angling experience. Alphonse Fishing Company tightly controls the amount and type of fishing pressure its waters see, and the fisheries are completely closed a minimum of three months per year. That’s the fishing side of the conservation effort. Alphonse also protects the unique flora and fauna of the islands, which makes for a sensational overall vacation experience, with comfortable lodging among beautiful tropical forests and beaches. For more information, see www.alphonsefishingco.com.
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Craig Sutton with a Costa Rica yellowfin.
“M
ost people my age buy a house in Costa Rica to retire,” said Craig Sutton, of Nosara Paradise Rentals and FishingNosara. “When I bought my first house in Costa Rica, my life was just starting to get interesting.” Craig first discovered Nosara, Costa Rica on a surfing trip in the late 1990s and immediately fell in love with the people, the culture and the year-round excellent surfing. He purchased a small house near Guiones Beach, bought out his neighbors’ land, and spent the next 15 years building a nature preserve campus of 14 houses plus a pool, common areas and maintenance facilities. One thing was missing from this surfer’s paradise: good fishing. As a native Floridian, Craig’s passion for fishing runs deep. He has been a regular on the kingfish tournament scene for years, with his boat Fishtastic posting top-5 finishes in the several tournaments.
“The problem with fishing in Costa Rica is that fish are so big and so harsh that they will destroy your tackle, plus the costs for fuel is astronomical at $7 a gallon and rising,” said Sutton. “Captains trying to make ends meet would have to choose between new lines, new tackle and a full tank of gas, or putting food on the family table.” After years of struggling to find a captain in Costa Rica who was willing and able to fish aggressively, Sutton realized his only option was to build his own boats and crew them with hand-picked locals. “These guys had the drive and the talent to be great fishermen, they just lacked the tools and the logistical support,” said Sutton. “The team-centered approach allows FishingNosara captains to pursue the fish as aggressively as a professional tournament boat without being distracted by losing lures or running up the gas bill.” FishingNosara launched their first boat, The Wanderer, in 2009 and have added a boat every year since. The results have been astounding. In the 2017 season, the five-boat FishingNosara team ran over 730 trips with over 80 marlin releases and 800 sailfish releases. More importantly, the team inflicted zero billfish fatalities. “Reviving and releasing billfish is a sacred priority to us as conservationists, plus it makes good business sense,” said Sutton. “We have created a market of charter fishermen, which means billfish are worth more money alive and swimming than they are on a scale at the meat market.” As for retirement for Sutton, don’t bet on it anytime soon. Last April he scored a billfish grand slam (blue marlin, striped marlin and sailfish) to win the Ship of Fools Billfish Tournament in Costa Rica. Sutton is looking to up-the-ante again in 2018. Back in the States, a new version of the Fishtastic came online this year. It’s an exact copy of the 32’ Eduardono Harvester currently in Nosara, and Sutton is already amped up for a new challenge. “My goal with the new boat is to snag a tournament winning king mackeral in July then go catch marlin in August… seems like a good way to bring two worlds together.”
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By CAM Staff
M
urrells Inlet, S.C. has always been a fishing town. Long before Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand began drawing tourists to experience the beaches, shopping, golf and nightlife that have made it famous, Murrells Inlet was a fishing village. And it’s no wonder. The inlet itself is an inshore angler’s dream. It’s an enclosed system, one of very few inlets on the east coast free from the influence of the Intracoastal Waterway or coastal rivers.
There’s no dirty water flowing in from upstream, and this system of marshes and backwaters is a completely saltwater environment, with no freshwater pumping in to reduce salinity. The result is excellent fishing and exploration of backwater creeks for speckled trout, redfish and the doormat flounder that Murrells Inlet has gained a reputation for. Another thing the area has a well-earned reputation for is huge red drum, which hang out around the jetties to provide anglers with the bulldog runs only a big bull red can provide. It’s some of the best red fishing on the east coast, with fish in the 20- to 40-pound range arriving in numbers in both spring and fall. For those who don’t mind a short boat ride to fill the cooler,
there are numerous nearshore reefs that can be easily accessed with a half-day trip and a run of less than 5 miles. Mackerel, sharks, black sea bass, reds, flounder, bluefish, spadefish and more make for an exciting outing even for the family, and you’ll come back with a cooler full of delicious fish. Out to 15 or 30 miles, there is also excellent trolling for king and Spanish mackerel, cobia and amberjack, as well as bottom fishing for snappers, groupers and sea bass. But those who want to get serious should look into a full-day trip to the Gulf Stream. From 55 to 70 miles offshore, opportunities for tuna, dolphin, wahoo, marlin and sailfish abound. Trolling the Gulf Stream for big-game species off the lower end of the Grand Strand is tough to beat anywhere. So… it’s easy to see why Murrells Inlet has always been a fishing village, and perhaps the best way to experience it is from a base camp at the Inlet Sports Lodge. Located at the heart of Murrells Inlet, the Inlet Sports Lodge is a comfortable and classy boutique hotel that caters to anglers and golfers with the finest amenities in the area. It’s minutes away from three marinas, works closely with the area’s best charter captains and can accommodate boats up to 25 feet. There’s a fish cleaning room for prep, as well as gas and charcoal grills available in the courtyard to cook your catch. Or, for those who’d rather let someone else do the cooking, the COSTA Coastal Kitchen and Bar on-site offers up fine, fresh Italian and seafood fare. There are also several other restaurants nearby that prepare the kind of delicious right-out-of-the-water dishes that have made Murrells Inlet the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina.” And don’t forget the golf. If days on the water paired with days on the links sounds like the perfect way to relax, the Inlet Sports Lodge has you covered. With golf packages booking a wide variety of the Grand Strand’s famous courses, there’s more golf than you can swing a stick at, including two award-winning courses with the same ownership as the Inlet Sports Lodge. Caledonia Golf & Fish Club and True Blue Plantation are two of the finest courses in the area as well as the nation. For more information on fishing, golfing and the Inlet Sports Lodge at Murrells Inlet, S.C., go to www.inletsportslodge.com/ or call 877-585-9360.
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FLORIDA
By Dianne Poston
T
he South Atlantic Fishery Management Council (SAC) recently issued a news release stating that they have approved a request to NOAA Fisheries that would allow fishermen access to red snapper in federal waters off the coast of the Carolinas, Georgia and the east coast of Florida. The Council is requesting that NOAA Fisheries allow an interim annual catch limit (recreational and commercial) of 42,510 fish for 2017 via an emergency rule. The annual catch limit would allow for a recreational mini-season with six to 12 days of fishing over a few weekends beginning in late October. The recreational bag limit would be 1 fish per person/day with no minimum size limit. The recreational sector is allocated 71.93 percent of the total catch limit of 42,510 fish for 2017. The Council also approved measures in Amendment 43 to the Snapper Grouper Fishery Management Plan with
the intent to have a red snapper season in 2018. If allowed, the recreational fishery would open the second Friday in July (July 13, 2018) and the commercial fishery the second Monday in July (July 9, 2018). SEDAR 41 is 805 pages and contains all the information on how the South Atlantic Council arrives at the numbers of fish that fishermen are allowed to catch. During the last season in 2014, biology tables were set up at the boat ramps to assess the red snapper stock. We fished in this last season and believed that the council was interested in how many older, breeding red snapper were available. We noted that the only fish that were making it to the biology table were the older, large fish and no one brought in the smaller red snapper to be assessed. As a result of this, there was a spike in the number of older fish being included in the council’s data. They assumed that fishermen had been discarding the smaller red snapper, allowing them to become dead discards, to catch the larger snapper. The council believed that the dead discards were greater than the allocated number of red snapper to be caught and therefore closed red snapper harvest for 2015 and 2016. During the 2017 season there will also be biology tables to assess our catch. Please be responsible fishermen and report all your catches, large and small, and also the ones you released. Private recreational fishermen will also have an opportunity to report their catch information as part of a voluntary pilot project using the mobile iAngler tournament app. Dr. Duval, of the SAC, is recommending practices such as moving off areas when you have caught your limit and if you need to release fish to use a descending device. Washington state, Oregon and California recently mandated fish descending devices for all bottom fishing. California reopened rock fish harvest after a study using descending devices showed that mortality was significantly reduced when using a descending device. There are several other states currently looking at mandating fish descending devices. There are many fish descending devices on the market. A good one is the Fish Saver by Roy’s Electric Reels. For more information, go to Fishsaverdevice.com.
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nglers in search of big-game sportfishing have chosen the Palm Beaches since the 1900s. Some of the earliest sportfishing boats were built in the area. With the Gulf Stream waters passing closer to the coast than anywhere in the continental United States, the annual migration of Atlantic sailfish to Palm Beach County sets the stage for Operation Sailfish on Dec. 6-10, hosted by the Sailfish Marina and Resort in Palm Beach Shores, Fla. Operation Sailfish is the first leg of the Quest for the Crest series, where the world’s best sail-fishing teams will compete. Prior to the
start of the competition, there is a special event, “Take a Hero Fishing Day.” Men and women of the United States military are invited to join the fishing teams for a fun day of fishing on Dec. 7. Active duty men and women, veterans and wounded warriors are eligible to participate in this event, created to honor and thank them for their service. The Quest for the Crest four-leg series teams are expected to compete for an estimated purse of $3,000,000 in 2018. The series begins at the historic Sailfish Marina and Resort in December. The Sailfish 400, the second leg will be January in Miami. The largest sailfish tournament in the country is the third leg of the series, known as The Sailfish Challenge, with a three-inlet format; Ft. Lauderdale will be the home base. The series wraps up with the Final Sail in Key West in April. The Sailfish Marina and Resort is the perfect venue for the tournament, with accommodations, the waterfront restaurant, ship’s store, dockage, fuel, heated pool and a weekly sunset celebration featuring live music. Many tournaments enjoy the amenities of the resort throughout the year, including The Big Dog Fat Cat KDW, The Silver Sailfish Derby and Blue Water Babes. A family tradition since 1952, the Sailfish Resort and Marina offers transient and annual docking, a charter fleet, 32 hotel accommodations, Peanut Island shuttle, as well as a snorkel trail and beach just a few blocks away. If you don’t compete in any of the tournaments based at the resort, come make some memories of your own. For more information, visit www.sailfishmarina.com.
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By Terry Gibson • Photo by Pete Markham/flickr.com
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he maritime salvage laws on the books today originated well before the days of Christopher Columbus. Today, salvage laws remain relatively unchanged. Boaters in Florida and across the nation should understand how and when these laws apply to them. Otherwise, you could end up with a shocking bill for even basic assistance on the water. A long-time friend of mine is a charter captain in Sebastian, Fla. He was fishing offshore with clients and noticed a slight crack in the hull, which let water in below decks. With an abundance of caution, he headed back to shore and contacted a popular maritime salvage and towing company to provide assistance. This company rushed a boat to his location and tossed him a pump to help minimize the effects of the leak. The company representative never set foot on my friend’s boat. A couple weeks later, my friend received a shocker of a bill—for $3,800. I recently learned about another individual who received a bill for a salvage claim that was several times that amount. This particular individual was a few hundred yards from shore while traveling to Key West when he saw there was more water in the bilge than normal. He got on the radio and called for a friend to help, but a maritime salvage company met him and helped pump water from the bilge. The company employee was on the boat for less than five minutes. Because the company classified the service as “salvage,” this boat owner received a bill for $30,000 even though he had a membership agreement with this company. I don’t share these stories to make people distrust maritime salvage and towing companies. I personally have a membership with one of these companies, and all the assistance they’ve provided was swift and above board. More than half of Florida boat owners invest in a membership for maritime assistance. Every boater should be aware that when you receive assistance on the water, you could be on the hook for a huge bill–even if you have a membership. Unless you have a pre-arranged contract with a salver that protects you, that individual or company has the right to make what’s called a “salvage claim” against the value of your vessel if it’s in “impending peril.” According to numerous maritime attorneys, the salvage fee amount depends upon factors including but not limited to the value of your vessel, the direness of the situation and the risk the salver took. Dishonest salvers know there’s legal gray area and that most salvage claims are settled in or out of admiralty courts. You can prevent an unexpected bill when you need assistance by negotiating a fixed fee or a set hourly rate. That way everyone is clear on what assistance will be provided and what it will cost. Mechanical and hull-integrity issues happen on the water; that’s the nature of boats. When they do, it’s good to know there are services available to help. To keep these challenging moments from turning into real financial problems, know what’s in store before calling on the help of a maritime salvage and towing company. To learn more about this issue or to share you own story about a salvage experience, visit StopSeaPiracy.com.
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By Costa Rica Pro Staff
Photos by Francisco Mejias
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orld-class sportfishing and the sexy big-game species get a lot of attention on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, and for good reason. However, the inshore fishing can be just exciting. It is action-packed and diverse, utilizing different techniques to target more than a dozen different species. The main target of inshore anglers in Costa Rica is the hard-hitting and powerful roosterfish. They will smash artificials, and even topwater plugs, but the easiest way to catch them is with live bait. We bridle a live runner, sardine, lookdown or even a skipjack tuna on a 9/0 Trokar circle hook. Slow trolling around rocky structure or along beaches is a surefire way to draw strikes. Once hooked, the average 20-pound rooster is as ferocious as it is beautiful, and these beasts can get a whole lot bigger than average. We very often encounter fish in the jack family, including jack crevalle and different species of trevally in many of the same areas as the roosterfish. These can also be caught on live bait but are even more responsive than roosterfish to topwater baits such as poppers and stick baits. The lures are rigged with one or two in-line hooks from Lazer Sharp. We replace the factory treble hooks, which makes the fight much cleaner, the fish handling safer and does a lot less damage to the fish. These are fast fish, and quick retrieves often get the fish’s attention. Topwater does also work for smaller roosterfish, but the larger ones are harder to lure to the surface. Not so for the snappers, including cubera snapper, which will rise from 100 feet to smash a well-worked popper. This is one of the ultimate challenges in inshore fishing. They dive right back down to the rocks, often leaving the angler with a cut leader. Heavy popping gear, with 80- to 100-lb. line is necessary for the big ones. We have put 44 pounds of drag on big cuberas, and they keep going like there is no drag at all! Jigging is also a popular and fun technique we use a lot. Jacks,
trevally, seabass, snappers, groupers and mackerel are common catches. We look for underwater structure like rocks and drop jigs ranging from 2 to 9 ounces. The jigs are rigged with a pair of the new Eagle Claw Trokar assist hooks. On and close to the bottom, a slow jigging pace interests the snappers, groupers and seabass. As you move higher in the water column, a speed-jig style approach with rapid jerks gets the bite from the pelagics. Bottom fishing is also an option we sometimes use for an even larger variety of fish. Costa Rica does have some big bottom fish like giant grouper, broomtail grouper, cubera snapper and big stingrays. Live or dead bait gets the job done. Snook can be found in and around river mouths and are a fun species to target. Live bait works, but artificials like a small stick baits or jigs are more common and more fun. Wazo jigs with a Mr. Twister tail and a Trokar hook have resulted in many double-digit snook. If you haven’t tried inshore fishing in Costa Rica, take the time to try it. It’s great fun.
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will also have a break-away setup instead of a reel so that the rig (and fish) are attached to your float instead of your gun. There are several good companies that make this specialized equipment, such as Wong Spearguns, Riffe, Omer, Sporasub, Rob Allen, Gannet, and more. Retailers include SpearfishingWorld.com, SpearAmerica.com and many local dive ore than a few spearos have shops. spearing a tuna on their bucket Here are some quick tips to make sure list. Some are surprised to hear me your travel is fun, safe and productive: say that spearing a tuna is actually pretty 1. Go with a mentor or guide the first few easy. It’s the before and after activities times. Safe diving requires that you look out that are more challenging, along with the for one another, especially when bluewater planning. hunting. Due to safety considerations, it’s not the 2. Choose a reputable charter that first species one should aspire to. A more specializes in tuna spearfishing, as this likely progression would start with reef requires an experienced captain who can hunting for hogfish and red groupers, then give you good “drops.” on to mutton snappers and black groupers, 3. Use a Sportube to pack your spearguns and then perhaps some bluewater action and use the wetsuits for padding. Tell TSA with mahi and wahoos. you have “fishing equipment” rather than In addition to experience, going after using the word “speargun.” yellowfin tuna will likely require you to 4. Make sure all body parts are clear of travel, and it will also require special rigging the line when shooting a tuna. Tunas will to withstand the increased speed and size Sheri with 179-lb tuna from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. frequently sound and have a strong initial of this awesome prey. These two factors are Photo by Terry Maas. run. key. Traveling to the right place will increase 5. After cinching up the line through a clip on the float, use a second your chances of seeing them, and having the right equipment will ensure speargun for the kill shot. Do not handle a “hot tuna” with your hands. a successful capture. Don’t be disappointed if it takes a few trips to land your first tuna. It Currently, the most active places to spear yellowfin tuna include Louisiana, Mexico, Costa Rica and Panama. In more recent times, may take some effort, but in the end, it’s worth it. It’s hard to think of a spearos have been landing bluefin tuna off the coast of California. The fish that is more beautiful to look at or more delicious to eat. best way to find out which places are productive is through word-ofSheri is a world-record holder, host of Speargun Hunter, and producer mouth and social media. After selecting the right destination, here is what you will need to of The Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Follow take in terms of equipment. Instead of the standard speargun with a “Sheri Daye” and “The Blue Wild” on Facebook and Instagram. reel, you will use a specially designed bluewater tuna gun. This will most likely be 60 to 70 inches long, the diameter of the shaft will be thicker, For more Sheri Daye, go to and it will have four to five bands (versus 1 to 2). It will have a slip tip and cable (versus flopper and mono)1 for a more Airline_Ad_CoastalAngler_8-1-14_Layout 8/1/14 1:14sure PM hold Pageon 1 a strong fish. It
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over rolling hills until we at last reached the bottom. Before the stream met the loch, I assembled my trusty 5-weight, tied on a Prince Nymph and cast. To my delight, a wild brown trout eagerly nailed the fly as I crawled it back to me. Relaying this story gave me a bit of credibility back at the Trout Anglers Club. I received an invitation to join them on their last outing of the year to Loch Leven, home to Lochleven Castle, where Mary Queen of Scots was held prisoner. I went out with club members and fished from a “clinker” – an old wooden rowboat that had been fitted with an outboard. Once a world-renowned brown trout fishery, the loch has fallen victim to farm runoff. Although a majestic place to practice casting, we caught no fish that day. Hungry for more, I recruited my friend Joe Bell from the club, whom I fished with on Loch Leven, to go on a salmon expedition on the River Earn one Saturday. Although not the most expensive river to fish in the area, we were taken good care of by the ghillie Sandy MacIntosh, a short man with rosy cheeks who dressed in green overalls. He treated us to coffee with whiskey in the lodge before walking us along the river, showing us the best spots from which to cast. Even though none of the four people Sandy hosted that day landed a fish, getting A Scottish grayling, prized for brilliant, shimmering dorsal fins—from the River Tweed. the full experience of fishing a Scottish river is something I will never forget. ther the castle nor any museum, but the EdMy greatest achievement fishing in Scotland inburgh Trout Anglers Club, the meeting grounds of a group of likeminded individuals came on an individual trip. Early one morning, bound by a common love of fish and drink. I I boarded a train to the town of Galashiels, in was welcomed by Alex Bell, the president, and the Borders area near England. I hopped off the introduced myself to the members who were train, took a bus for a bit, then hitchhiked the rest intrigued to meet an eager young American of the way to the famed River Tweed—one of the angler. Over a few pints and games of snook- premier salmon rivers in Scotland. Salmon seaer, I listened to fish stories and soaked in the son was over, though, and I was there for graywisdom of how and where to fish in Scotland. ling—a less targeted species and subsequently far All inland water of the United Kingdom is cheaper to get a permit for. I searched the waprivately owned, which means fishing requires ter by Czech nymphing, which is high-sticking written permission—usually at a fee—from heavy flies along the very bottom. With less than the landowner. This cultivates an exclusive an hour of daylight left, I finally felt a tug and spirit for the sport; the best runs are often ex- set the hook in a mouth of a beautiful grayling. pensive to fish for the day. At the same time, There is nothing like the feeling of success on a An arsenal of rods primed and ready for salmon competition for business encourages land- self-guided fishing trip. fishing on the River Earn. Those are the highlights of my time fly fishowners to take good care of their fisheries. Many times a full-time “ghillie” is hired to take ing Scotland, where the sport itself emerged. I made many friends, some with legs and some care of the water. uring the fall of 2016, I had the immense My first catch in Scotland came the next with fins, and saw some of the most beautiful privilege of living in Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland. Apart from whiskey, kilts weekend on a hike on Mt. Roshven, which over- rivers and country in the world. If you ever have and bagpipes, Scottish culture also lays claim to looks Lochailort, a sea loch on the northwest the chance to visit the northernmost nation of the origins of fly fishing. Although historians dis- coast of Scotland. After a four-hour adventure the United Kingdom, leap at the opportunity. agree about where and when fly fishing began, to the summit, my two friends and I found our The people, the land, and the fish there are unlike there is strong evidence to suggest that Scotland way down the mountain by following a trickle anywhere else, and you’ll be sad to leave them. gave birth to the sport centuries ago. Fly fishing of water until it grew is heavily rooted in Scottish history, and the wa- into a stream. It led us For more Fly Fishing in Scotland, go to down the side of the ters of Scotland still teem with beautiful fish. My first stop exploring Edinburgh was nei- mount into a valley,
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By Chris Beardsley
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hen I first started fishing in the Gulf of Mexico, I researched the necessary tackle and what I might catch and tried to memorize the different species. But really, I just hoped to catch anything big. I knew I would be fishing exclusively from the beach and had my sights set on a bull red or nice gator trout, and if a shark happened along so much the better. With unrealistically high expectations and hopes to match, when I felt the first strike I knew it had to be something good. To my surprise, my surf rod didn’t strain under the massive weight. The drag refused to peel. Images of Spencer Tracy in “The Old Man and the Sea” did not flash before my eyes, as whatever hit my bait most assuredly had gotten off. The only sign that a
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fish was still on was the slightest wiggle, an almost imperceptible headshake. The fish I hauled in was pale and reminded me of the redhorse suckers we used to spear just before trapping season in Wisconsin. It was not glamorous in any way and certainly not magazine cover worthy. Worse, I didn’t even know what it was! After all the time spent looking at pictures of cobia, speckled seatrout and big redfish, I had no idea what this fish was. Checking my cheat sheet, it looked like a whiting, or more accurately Gulf kingfish, but I wasn’t sure. An older gentleman fishing a short walk down the beach confirmed my suspicions and added that they’re pretty good to eat. Soon, every tick of the rod tip resulted in yet another whiting. I downsized my gear to a budget 7-foot Okuma combo spooled with 15-lb. Berkley Big Game and a flouro leader. A Carolina rig with a 1-oz. barrel sinker and 1/0 circle hook topped off with bits of shrimp turned me into a whiting catching machine. Shrimp and clams, or similarly scented Fishbites, are excellent baits for these coastal croakers. Whiting are relatively small, opportunistic bottom feeders, and using light tackle helps detect the slightest bite. In the spring, whiting migrate north along the Florida Gulf Coast only to make the return trip migrating south in the fall. The fall fishing can be fast and furious as large schools migrate south. Casting into the first trough, usually within 30 yards (or less) from shore, makes this a great fish for kids to target too. Of course the whiting, in all its plainness, is one of the best eating fish in the Gulf. To add credence to my humble opinion, a past fish fry ended with my daughter asking for more chicken! To this day we often refer to whiting as the chicken of the sea… Sorry Charlie! After 17 years of surf fishing, I have a lot of equipment and have caught a fair number of whiting. Occasionally, when the wind is right and the stars align, I get to return the favor as the older gentleman down the beach – and if it’s a whiting, I let them know that they’re pretty good to eat too!
10/18/17 1:59 PM
Capt. Cliff Lumpkin, Publisher 305-849-9093 www.coastalanglermag.com/florida-keys April Lumpkin, Publisher 305-849-9104 From the editor
In Irma’s Wake, We Fish Welcome Back! You are well aware that Hurricane Irma hit the Florida Keys with just about all she could muster on the 10th of September. As a resident of Big Pine Key, this experience became very personal to all our livelihoods and way of life. In past hurricanes (George and Wilma) our homes and businesses survived with merely a scratch compared to the devastation that occurred with Irma. Recalling the destruction that Katrina caused on the Mississippi and Louisiana Gulf Coast while visiting friends soon after the Storm, I was once again made aware of the forces that “Mother Nature” can bring. It is something that you never get used to. What has been amazing is witnessing the American spirit rise here at home; on Big Pine and throughout our Florida Keys. The outpouring of support by strangers for their fellow citizens in times like these have strengthened us all. I have witnessed people from all walks of life, from every part of the country arrive in the Florida Keys and work from sun up to sun down helping those effected by the storm. Whether it is the Samaritan’s purse, the Mormons, the Baptist, National Guard, FEMA or just a random guy from Kansas cooking for people in front of our Winn Dixie; the concern for their fellow human beings is extremely humbling; and I/we are thankful. The other inspirational aspect of the aftermath is the resilience of the Florida Keys resident. It would be extremely easy to throw up your hands and say I quit and move on to another part of the country. To find that one place; if it existed, where you can say I have no worries here. Well that’s not the Key’s way. There is a reason that we live here; it is our own slice of paradise to share and care for. We want the rest of the world to experience that paradise too. I posted on our Facebook page soon after the storm and said it was time to pray for our families, friends and neighbors... and there would be a time to talk about fishing again soon. Well; that the time is now. Fishing is part of the life blood of the Florida Keys. It doesn’t get much better than right here. If you love fishing, and have ever fished here you already know that. So get on back here! Our local guides are ready to put you on the fish, our dive masters are geared up to show you a world that you didn’t know existed, and of course our bartenders are stocked and ready to serve you the drinks that make the best of fishing stories yet to be told. Our Florida Keys are back and we need you now more than ever. Don’t change your plans because you’re concerned that it won’t be same; chances are it may not. But know this; now is the time to either rebuild or start the memories again. The new and improved businesses all over the Florida Keys are inspired and want you to love the Keys as much as they do, even when she has been dealt a storm of historical magnitude. I am willing to bet your favorite establishments, friends and businesses will be right down the road ready to serve you again. Your guides have been working on their boats since the day after the storm to make sure he or she is ready to go when you return. As far as the fishing, just read the reports, look at the pictures in the next few pages and you will see the fishing is better than ever. Reality is a couple of months of relief on the fishing grounds has done wonders, but you need to see it for yourself. So I invite you to come back to the Florida Keys and re-experience the best fishing in the world or if it’s your first time, start those memories of a lifetime in our slice of Paradise we call the Florida Keys.
Captain Cliff Lumpkin
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by Greg Poland
Trevor’s first snook
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hat a month its been for everybody here in the Florida Keys, we have all learned much more then we wanted to know about our insurance coverage and how to properly operate a chainsaw. On September 6th I ran a charter into the backcountry the weather was perfect and the snook were biting, but when I got home we watched the news and life for most in the Florida Keys was going to change. Lisa & I decided to pack up the house put up the shutters and evacuate to the mainland. We kept in touch with the friends and neighbors who rode it out and after the storm we worked our way south to find a very different neighborhood then we left behind. As I write my monthly fishing report I can honestly say there is not much to report, most Captains are working on their boats are prepping them for the future. I was lucky to have a 1/2 day trip and we caught a few snapper but like most I have been tending to my house and helping out friends and family with their yards and trying to get back to the new normal. I have a few trips coming up in the near future and today spoke with a fellow fishing guide and we are going to go out and do some scouting which I am really looking forward to. Ill let you know how our scouting trips go next month and by then I am sure to have a better fishing report. I took this photo and thought it really showed the force of the storm Capt. Greg Poland 305.393.3327 gregpoland.com Instagram gregpoland Facebook: Fishing in the Florida Keys with Capt. Greg Poland
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by Capt. Dallas Hopper
In November the temperatures are starting to cool off here in the Florida Keys, however the fishing action will continue to stay red hot. Its an exciting time of year to fish here in the Upper Keys because your options are endless. From fishing the shallow patch reefs to live baiting the edge of the reef for energetic pelagics and fishing the deep wrecks beyond. The shallow patch reefs are home to dozens of different species, with the depth ranging from eight to thirty feet of water it’s relatively easy to spot these dark patches with a little sunlight. You can expect these spots to produce fish like yellowtail, mangrove snapper, mutton snapper, lane snapper, porgy, black grouper, gag grouper, red grouper, cero mackerel and hogfish. Although one of the most highly sought after fish in the Florida Keys, Hogfish must be released beginning November 1st. Shrimp, these crustaceans are the go to bait on the patches, whether dead or alive they will not go unnoticed. Ballyhoo plugs are another great bait to soak on the bottom. Medium sized spinning gear loaded with fifteen pound mono is the ideal set up, keep it simple with a knocker rig. A half ounce egg sinker and a 2/0 j hook is all you need. Slow trolling live ballyhoo on the edge of the reef will put you in the middle of some killer action this month. The sailfish are starting to make an appearance plus there are still a lot of mahi, blackfin tuna and kingfish around as well. Keep a watch out for baitshowers on the edge, the sailfish, mahi and other predators will often chase large schools of ballyhoo. Getting your baits in the middle of this feeding frenzy will often result in an instant bite. The deep water wrecks are still producing a mixed bag of fish, dropping large live baits such as blue runners, goggle eye and grunts will get slurped up by back breaking amber jack and a variety of grouper. Vermillion and mutton snapper are some of the other regulars that have been making their way to the fish box. Now that the devastating hurricane Irma is behind us, most if not all businesses in the upper keys are open and ready to accommodate your needs. We have plenty of availability in the coming weeks, beat the rush and lets go fishing before the holiday season is upon us. Hope everyone is doing well in the wake of hurricane Irma and wish you all a speedy recovery.
Capt. Dallas Hopper Fantastic II Charters “guaranteed fish” 305-451-2890 • www.charterkeylargo.com
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Cheeca Lodge & Spa to Cancel All American Backcountry Fishing Tournament Cheeca Lodge & Spa today announced the cancelation of its 6th Annual All American Backcountry Fishing Tournament scheduled to take place November 16-18, 2017, in Islamorada, FL. Typically held over Veteran’s Day weekend, the tournament was set to host two war heroes, with proceeds benefitting the Guides Trust Foundation, a locally-based nonprofit supporting Florida Keys fishing guides in need. “We explored alternatives to move forward with the tournament, but the impact of Hurricane Irma made it too difficult for us to deliver a tournament of this caliber in November,” notes Cheeca General Manager Bob LaCasse. “We truly regret that we will not be able to host this year’s tournament and pay tribute to our war heroes, support our anglers and local fishing guides, and facilitate tourism in the Keys,” he added. In lieu of the tournament, Cheeca Lodge & Spa and its owners, Northwood Investors, will be donating $10,000 to the Guides Trust Foundation. The GTF Board of Directors is currently developing a thoughtful and comprehensive strategy to help those Florida Keys guides and their families who were most impacted by Hurricane Irma. Several sponsors of the All American Backcountry Tournament have also pledged to donate to the nonprofit organization. More information on the GTF, including the ability to make a donation to help Florida Keys guides in need, can be found at GuidesTrustFoundation.org. Cheeca Lodge & Spa anticipates re-opening in the first quarter of 2018. The 2018 All American Backcountry Tournament will be held Veteran’s Day weekend, November 8-10, 2018. Visit www.cheeca.com/all-american or the All American Facebook page for the latest information. Cheeca will also host the 28th Annual Cheeca Lodge Presidential Sailfish Tournament January 26-28, 2018, the third leg of the Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish Championship. For information on all tournaments, visit www.cheeca.com/experience/fishing or call 305-517-4512.
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By Capt. Chris Johnson
The cooler November weather brings a massive influx of baitfish to the Marathon waters, ballyhoo most notably, and with them come our wintertime pelagic species. A day of fishing starts by filling the live well with live ballyhoo, as every fish along the reef eats them. Anchor up on a shallow patch reef and chum the area until the ‘hoos come in. This can take as little as five minutes or as long as 60 minutes. If you don’t see any after a reasonable amount of time, move to other patches until you find them. Once you have acquired sufficient ballyhoo (the SeaSquared boats like to have a minimum of two or three dozen in the live well), proceed to the deeper edge of the reef to begin your search for the pelagics. As a side note, while waiting for the ballyhoo, fish the bottom for snappers and groupers. Our pelagic targets on the oceanside this time of year are sailfish, cobia and king mackerel. You may also encounter dolphin and blackfin tuna right on the reef edge, all attracted to the ballyhoo. Scan the horizon for frigate birds to indicate bait sprays created by sailfish and dolphin chasing ballyhoo in 20 to 30 feet of water. Pitch one of your baits into the melee and hang on. This bait-spraying action typically lasts until about mid-morning. When it slows down, head out to the 100- to 150-foot depths, put out a spread of live ballyhoo and drift the reef edge. This is where you will pick up the majority of the blackfins and kings. While drifting, keep a rod within 15 to 20 feet of the bottom with a live ballyhoo, pilchard or even a pinfish and you may catch muttons, groupers or bonus cobias while waiting for the pelagics. The shallow edge of the reef is loaded with our year-round resident snappers, groupers and mackerel, all looking to snack on the ballyhoo as well. Good amounts of yellowtail, mangrove and mutton snappers plus black and red groupers are in the 20- to 35-foot areas. Live ballyhoo, pinfish or pilchards fished on a jighead serve best for the mangroves, muttons and groupers, while flatlining is most productive for the yellowtails. Now is a great time to fill your smoker with mackerel. Put a live bait out on the surface with a trace of wire but no weight to catch passing kings and ceros. The action heats up on the gulfside this time of year also, with the deeper wrecks holding most of the pelagics, specifically cobias and kings. Also, the gag groupers begin to move up shallower and feed heavily. Just about any live bait will draw the interest of these three The Yarberrys caught 14 good-size dolphin with species. Capt. Jason Bell and SeaSquared Charters Goliath grouper,
sharks, jacks, bluefish and loads of mangroves round out the fun to be had around the gulf wrecks. Closer in, at the eight- to twelve-foot depth range, is where you will find the Spanish mackerel. Hard-bottom areas and wrecks are the most productive areas for filling your smoker in preparation for the holidays. Live shrimp on a jighead works best, although chunks of pinfish will also do the trick. There are plenty of mangroves here along with the occasional cobia. Blacktip, spinner and lemon sharks follow the schools of mackerel. Put a small, live Spanish mackerel on a Marissa Sivyer with a nice balloon, float or kite to tangle with one of these mutton snapper, one of four she big, toothy critters. You may also be surprised caught with Capt. Jason Bell and by some huge king mackerel at 30-plus pounds. SeaSquared Charters two weeks Marathon was dealt a severe blow by Hurri- following Hurricane Irma.weeks cane Irma, but we are rebuilding and will be more following Hurricane Irma. beautiful than ever. The fishing is still spectacular. And, there are all sorts of accommodations, restaurants, stores and attractions open for business and anxious to serve you. What we need more than anything is for our tourists to come and enjoy a fabulous fishing vacation in the heart of the Florida Keys. Hope to see you soon! Capt. Chris Johnson specializes in offshore, reef/wreck, gulf/bay, sailfish, shark and tarpon fishing with SeaSquared Charters, docked at Faro Blanco Resort and Yacht Club in Marathon. 305-743-5305, SeaSquaredCharters.com.
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By Robert Trosset
Diving After Irma It has been over a month since hurricane Irma impacted so many of our lives in the Florida Keys. It has been a tough recovery for the people, but for the underwater residents it was an immediate bounce back. Just a few days after the hurricane passed the crew of Finz Dive Center loaded the dive gear and headed south to the Vandenberg. As we left the shop and headed down the channel the destruction was apparent. We had to navigate amidst broken docks, sunken boats, and trees on the short ride. When we arrived at the wreck I immediately knew something was different. The angle of the mooring balls had changed. The wreck has shifted about 25 degrees and settled almost 10ft deeper. For someone who has dove on the Vandenberg numerous times it is a brand new experience. Without pressure from divers and fishermen for 2 weeks the wreck is teeming with life. All the original inhabitants weathered the storm and new marine life has arrived. Grouper and snapper were everywhere and less skittish than before the storm. I was actually able to get so close to a mutton snapper I could reach out and touch it. The reefs we have been diving since the storm are in good shape. Marker 32, known for the shallow depths and impressive spur and groove reef formations, had many of the sea- fans still intact and very little damage, that I could tell from the wave action. All of the mooring buoys that we have visited are intact and ready for divers. The visibility has varied widely over the past few weeks. We had 30 to 40 ft of visibility the week after the storm and have seen up to
80ft since. I am very relieved about how the lower keys reef and wrecks fared during the storm and excited for all divers to return and enjoy the beautiful water we have here. Robert Trosset FINZ Dive Center 5130 Overseas Hiwy,Key West • 305-395-0880 www.Finzdivecenter.com • Info@Finzdivecenter.com
FLORIDA KEYS BRIDGES OPEN TO FISHING:
• Channel 2 (MM 73) • Channel 5 (south end, MM 71) • Long Key (MM 63-65) • Tom’s Harbor Cut (MM 61.2) • Tom’s Harbor Channel (access from north end only, MM 60.6) • Seven Mile Bridge (south end only, MM 40) • Spanish Harbor (MM 34) • South Pine Channel Historic Bridge (MM 30) • Kemp Channel (MM 23) • Bow Channel (MM 20) • Park Channel (MM 18.5) • Shark Channel (MM 11)
FLORIDA KEYS BRIDGES CLOSED TO FISHING: • Little Duck Key-Missouri Historic Bridge, (MM 39.5) • Missouri-Ohio Historic Bridge (MM 39) • Ohio-Bahia Honda Historic Bridge (MM 38.5) • Lower Sugarloaf Channel (MM 15.8)
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By Capt. Mike Wheeler
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ovember fishing is something to give thanks for, it is the kickoff of a great fishing season. As the water begins to cool and the predominant Northerly winds begin to blow the winter feeding behaviors take over. The water on the reef will be cooling and the ballyhoo begin to school up on top of the reef. When bait begins to set up the mutton snapper move in shallow and the cero mackerels start spraying the reef. Around the full and new moons in November the wahoo bite will explode some days resulting in double digits. The sailfish will begin spraying the bait on the reef and also feeding on trolled ballyhoo as well as live baits on the kite. November is probably the most under rated month of the year in fishing the Atlantic side. Don’t forget about the blackfin tuna and skip jacks that will feed early in the morning and late in the day for you sushi dinner. The back country begins to shift to jacks barracudas and some permit and bonefish. You will have to chase the warmer waters to get an active bite in the back country. The Gulf side the wrecks will fill with sharks and snappers as November continues. it can also be the beginning of the cobia bite on the wrecks so keep some live pinfish in your well ready to go. Enjoy the cooler temperatures and have a blast out fishing IF you’re looking to get out give me a call Compass Rose Charters Capt Mike Weinhofer Compass Rose Charters 305-395-3474 www.KeyWestFloridaFishing.com
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rs, ful Dave Char te oloney, of Grate ts fla e Captain Dave M fish on th finding the bone
SeaSquared ha s the best guests the world! Ken in and Don Jaros are in Marathon chec king on their va cation rental and took a few hours off catch yellowtails to with Capt. Jaso n Bell. rseys, from Many thanks to the Do ing their nd spe for d, an Maryl They caught n. ho honeymoon in Marat d had fun. an es rov ng their limit of ma
Captain Dave Moloney, of Grateful Dave Charters, with a nice mutton snapper caught 5 miles off of Key West
Bragboard sponsored by The Islander Resort
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If you have a catch to brag about send your picture and caption to: cliff@coastalanglermagazine.com or april@coastalanglermagazine.com
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By CAM Special Correspondent Tobin Strickland • Photo fish courtesy of troutsupport.com’s new lure
ig speckled trout are a different animal altogether and require a different mindset compared to finding small trout. In the search for big trout, it’s often said that catching lots of small trout means it’s time to move on. But you might not want to leave so fast. Big trout feed predominantly on fish. They will feed on shrimp when abundant. They will focus on menhaden, shad, piggy perch, pin perch, croaker and small trout. Many times big trout will be shallow to feed on big mullet and small trout in what we would normally associate as little trout habitat. Big trout will find a niche within that habitat to focus their attention, something that will give them an advantage in areas where they can feel safe from predators. So look where others aren’t, and don’t overlook ugly fishing spots. Think like an upper-echelon predator, but remember that dolphins and sharks will eat even the biggest trout. It’s time to don the waders and winter gear to look for big trout. Tobin created TroutSupport.com for those looking to up their game beyond YouTube and ActionCam footage. Professional Grade.
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he waters surrounding Australia are internationally renowned for some of the best sportfishing in the world, and Lizard Island on the Great Barrier Reef provides an exceptional platform from which to be part of the action. The waters off tropical North Queensland, including the iconic Great Barrier Reef, are considered the black marlin capital of the world, with many eager sports fishers flocking to the area annually during the storied marlin season. There is no better way to truly experience Australian sportfishing than with a visit to Lizard Island. Lizard Island, located 17 miles off the coast of Tropical North Queensland, is the most northern resort on the reef and is in the heart of the best sportsfishing grounds. The resort boasts unrivalled access to the Great Barrier Reef, so it is no surprise that fishing is one of Lizard Island’s most popular experiences. Lizard Island offers fishing charters to both the inner and outer reef on the luxury fishing vessel Fascination III. The inner reef takes only 15 minutes to reach and fish species include mackerel, queenfish, trevally and
other pelagic species. For those looking to catch something a little larger, a 50-minute trip to the outer reef should do the trick. Here it is not uncommon to catch mackerel, tuna, trevally, mahi-mahi, sailfish and black marlin at the right time of the year. While there are a variety of fishing experiences and species in the waters surrounding Lizard Island, the real draw is black marlin. Each year from September to December, the celebrated black marlin return to the area. For seven days in October each year, the Black Marlin Classic draws fishermen from all over the world to try their luck at catching one of these famous giants. For these seven days, Anchor Bay is inundated with eager fishermen seeking to catch a grander—a marlin heavier than 1,000 pounds. It is not uncommon in these waters. All black marlin fishing in the region is “tag and release” based, and limited to a particular area to ensure protection and conservation of this captivating species. Whether you are interested in a leisurely week of fishing in the beautiful tropical waters off Lizard Island or a serious sportfishing expedition in search of giant black marlin, Lizard Island will not disappoint. Unrivalled access to the iconic Great Barrier Reef, the luxury and seclusion of the resort, and ample opportunities to catch some truly impressive fish make Lizard Island the obvious choice for an Australian fishing adventure. If this isn’t already on your bucket list, it absolutely should be. For more information, visit the Ultimate Fishing Australia website ultimatefishing.com. au. Check out the four-night Lizard Island Fishing package, available at http://ultimatefishing.com.au/australian-fishing-tours/queensland/lizard-island/. Or contact them via email at info@ ultimatefishing.com.au or by phone at +61 (0) 8 8354 2348.
For more on booking a tour, go to
PEACEFULWATERS.CO Here are a few options: South Carolina Lowcountry: The marshes of the Lowcountry between Charleston, S.C. and Savannah, Ga. offer some of the best fly fishing for redfish on the east coast. Although the big bulls actually move out in fall, the best sight fishing of the year occurs when water temperatures begin to drop. Cool water means clear water here, and young redfish can be found in schools of 20 to 30 fish tailing on the mud flats and in tidal creeks. In less than 3 feet of water, these fish are skittish, and stealth is important. Bring your 8-weight to battle fish from 5 to 10 pounds. If you’re lucky, you’ll find them crushing big shrimp along a grass line, so pack a box of shrimp patterns. But be sure to bring your baitfish patterns, too, because mullet and menhaden will also be on the menu.
By CAM Staff • Photo courtesy of Capt. Michael Bruner
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edfish spawn in fall. What this means for anglers is spawning-sized reds, the bull reds, will be moving in from offshore across much of their range in preparation for the spawn. Large aggregations of big redfish, hungry from expending energy, become easy targets. The dirty water often associated with the weather of fall can make visibility difficult in many areas, and anglers chucking cut bait from beaches, piers and jetties find an advantage in their stinking offerings. But what about the purists… the fly fishers, who find joy in placing themselves at a disadvantage with self-imposed limitations? Well, fall also brings some of the best action of the year for redfish on the fly. The trick is to choose the location wisely.
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Florida Panhandle: From Steinhatchee to Pensacola, oversized redfish in the thousands push in from offshore each fall to school up in preparation for the spawn. At the same time, menhaden and mullet will be making their way out of the estuaries into the bays in search of deeper, warmer water. The result is a whole lot of big fish gorging on plentiful baitfish around the passes. The reds can show up in pods of 10 or 20 or schooling by the hundreds. Bring your 10-weight rod to battle 20-pound reds as well as a box full of baitfish patterns and spoonflies. A sinking line might be in order as well. Louisiana: With the cooling waters, bull redfish pile into the Louisiana estuaries each year. If tangling with 20 to 40-plus pound reds on a fly rod sounds like fun, this might be the best season and the best place on the planet to do it. Anglers from around the world eagerly await Louisiana’s fall invasion of enormous reds, so if you haven’t already booked your charter, you’re probably out of luck. Clean water means the opportunity is there to sight fish for bull reds that are grubbing up crabs in the marshes. Bring your 10-weight and a box of crab patterns.
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Make reel memories. By Ed Killer - This 6-pound pompano was caught with Native Salt Clam bait in Vero Beach, Fla. Photo by Manuel Briceno.
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all and winter along Treasure Coast beaches offer up some of the finest fishing there is. Surf fishing is fun, fulfilling and best of all, can fill a freezer in a couple of trips. Whiting, pompano, croaker, bluefish and Spanish mackerel are prime targets. While none of these species will ever earn acclaim for their size, they earn high marks at the dinner table. The hours of the incoming tide and beginning of the outgoing tide are the best time to go. Seas don’t have to be flat calm, but there is a threshold where if the shorebreak is too heavy, it might not be worth the effort. Surf fishing is generally a modified form of bottom fishing. If the waves are too large and require too much lead weight to hold bottom, it makes it impractical to fish. Plus, fish move out beyond casting range when the water is too sandy near the beach. Tackle requirements include a long 9- to 12-foot rod. Some anglers prefer spinning reels, however, the professionals keep one or more conventional reels in play, which helps reduce the potential for line being “spun” up by jacks and bluefish. Light line is the norm, too, about 10-pound test, but no more than 15. Most use monofilament with 1/0 or 2/0 hooks in a double-hook rig. Small pieces of bait like clam strips, pieces of shrimp, sand fleas or artificial bait like Fish Bites work well, as many of the targeted species feed using scent. Using a clip swivel, hook on a sinker heavy enough to hold bottom. Sometimes that weight might be 2 ounces; sometimes it might be a Buick. Whiting are nice to catch, and croaker mix into the cooler just as well. Both produce white flaky fillets and can be prepared in any number of ways. Take the skin off the fillet and bread for frying. Or try a whiting Reuben on rye bread with cole slaw and Thousand Island dressing for a true delight. Bluefish are voracious predators that feed in schools reminiscent of toothy piranhas, except larger. They are fun to catch, peeling off line and pulling like a jack crevalle. The Florida state record was caught in Jensen Beach in 1972. It was a whopper of a chopper, weighing 22 pounds. Spanish mackerel are also a fan favorite, and both macks and blues can be caught with topwater plugs, large spoons like Krocodiles and fast-reeled jigs. Bluefish taste fishy. Spanish mackerel are flavorful, but are best day-of fresh, and not great otherwise. But pompano really draw the crowds. In case there is any question, stop by a fish market and check the price per pound, which hovers around $19.99. Pompano have a delicate, rich flavor and elegant texture. Fillet with the skin on, which leaves them perfect for grilling or broiling. Lemon and pepper and a little tartar sauce make for a great reward for taking one’s fishing rod to a Martin County beach. Ed Killer is an outdoors columnist with Treasure Coast Newspapers and the USA Today Network.
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Stuart, located in Martin County, is known as the Sailfish Capital of the World. Sitting on the most biodiverse estuary in the Northern Hemisphere, Martin County is home to 100 artificial reef systems and over 800 species of fish. Its climate, waterways, natural environment and opportunity for diverse catches make it a mecca for fishermen and nautical explorers year-round. An array of unique shops, fine restaurants, great golf courses and quiet beaches make a day ashore fun, too. Inshore, offshore, saltwater or fresh, head out for an adventure and reel in the memories.
Plan your trip at discovermartin.com
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he Bassmaster Classic stands out as one of the biggest bass fishing events each year, and this year three pro anglers will don the signature Mud Hole colors on South Carolina’s Lake Hartwell for the 2018 Classic in March. Joining the Classic line-up is a huge accomplishment for any angler, so let’s take a look at how Bassmaster Elite pros Brandon Lester and Bradley Roy as well as FLW veteran John Cox were able to capitalize on their opportunities to make the cut. Brandon Lester Captures His Spot Heading into Mille Lacs Lake in Onamia, Minnesota, Bassmaster Elite pro Brandon Lester found himself on the Classic bubble. On
the verge of either making the Classic or watching his bubble burst, Brandon knew it wouldn’t be easy, but welcomed the challenge. After three days of tight competition and a lot of learning on the lake, Lester caught 43 pounds, 1 ounce to finish in the money and leave with a qualifying ticket for his third Bassmaster Classic appearance. Although he was nervous coming off the lake, he later left weigh-in with a huge smile knowing he’ll be fishing Hartwell in March. Bradley Roy’s Big Return Like Brandon, Bassmaster Elite pro Bradley Roy entered the Mille Lacs event with his mind focused on making the Classic cut and his custom MHX Rods dialed in for smallmouth fishing. But after just day two, Roy could rest easy knowing he bagged 36 pounds, 13 ounces, which also gained him enough points to seal a place in the 2018 Classic. Bradley ultimately finished with 52 pounds, 1 ounce of Mille Lacs bass, a nice check to cash, and a ticket to his second straight Bassmaster Classic. Considering this will be his second Classic and he placed seventh in his first appearance, Bradley is incredibly hungry for a strong return. John Cox Fishing Familiar Water When John Cox finished on top of the B.A.S.S. Southern Open at Chickamauga Lake in Dayton, Tenn. with 68 pounds, 3 ounces, his big win came with more than just a check, it also included a spot in the 2018 Bassmaster Classic. After hoisting the Forrest Wood Cup and making a major splash on the FLW Tour, Cox and his custom MHX Rods are crossing over to fish in the Classic. The sight fishing phenom is excited for the opportunity, especially considering this Classic will be held on Lake Hartwell, where he secured a huge Tour win back in 2016. With his spots and some new rod builds in mind, Cox is a dangerous competitor looking to capitalize on his knowledge and experience of Lake Hartwell. To fish the Pro Tour Rods these pro anglers are taking to the Classic, visit www.mudhole.com/pro-kits.
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FISH & FISHING
MARK SOSIN
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ounds transmitted into the water can either repel or attract fish. The key, of course, is to avoid driving fish away with the wrong kind of sound and, instead, arouse their curiosity or gain their attention with the right kind of sound. Keep in mind that sound travels five times faster in water than it does in air and that fish are extremely sensitive to a wide range of frequencies. You will hardly ever see a fish make a mistake and swim toward an alarming sound. However, the gentle splat of a bait or lure at a respectable distance from the fish will often attract its attention. Although fish don’t have protruding earflaps like those of humans and other mammals, they do have ears buried on either side of the head protected by skin, flesh and bone. In addition to their ears, fish have a second sound-detecting organ known as the lateral line, which is unique in the animal kingdom. Vibrations in the water pass through thousands of openings along the lateral line alerting a fish to their presence. The lateral line works within 20 to 30 feet of the fish. As the fish gets closer to the source of the sound (a baitfish or a lure), it can locate its prey even if it can’t see it. Within 5 feet or so, a fish can accurately strike its prey or a lure without actually seeing it. Sound plays a vital role in the daily activities of fish. Using their ears and lateral line, they can detect any disturbance in the water and react to it, whether
it is food or a predator ready to target them or simply some foreign sound that puts them on the alert. From a fishing standpoint, the key lies in eliminating alarming sounds. You can talk all you want, and the sound will bounce off the surface of the water. If you’re aboard a boat and you scrape a tackle box or bang your feet on the deck, that noise will transmit through the water. On clear shallow flats, it’s easy to see the effect of noise. Drop a lure too close to a bonefish, a 100-pound tarpon or even a large shark, and you can bet it will vacate the area. Even if it doesn’t go far, it’s on the alert and difficult to get to strike. One reason that fishing with live bait proves to be very effective is that its swimming ability is restricted and it sends out signals that it is in trouble. If you can keep the live bait on the surface where it continuously splashes, the results can be even more positive. That’s one reason why kite fishing with live bait proves so effective, particularly if you change baits frequently. Researchers tell us there is little doubt that sound with all its ramifications is a critical factor in the life of a fish, and it is equally important from a fisherman’s standpoint. As an angler, you should be totally aware of the effects of sound on fish and make them work for you both in attracting fish and by avoiding those sounds that would frighten fish or alert them that something is not right.
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ne of my favorite places for fishing, boating and enjoying nature is Hontoon Island in the St. Johns River in Volusia County. Accessible only by private boat or the park ferry, the island offers something for everyone, including the fisherman, canoer, hiker or archaeologist. A walk through the park or a stop in the visitor center can tell one about those who inhabited the island hundreds of years ago, for example Native Americans. The parking lot for the park’s ferry, which operates daily from 8 a.m. to right before sunset, is six miles west of Deland off State Road 44. The boat ride takes just a few minutes, but takes one into a world that seems little changed for hundreds of years. The 1,650-acre island has over three miles of hiking trails and cabins for rent for those who want to spend even more time fishing and swimming and exploring the river. One may learn in the museum there how the island once functioned as a center for commercial fishing. As in many places along the river, fish caught near the island and in the river waters offshore include bass, bream, catfish, crappie, perch and sunfish. What I have particularly enjoyed is boating the side streams around Hontoon Island, where one can find a wide variety of fish hiding in the grasses along the edge of the water. Nearby Lake Beresford, which is two miles long and a half-mile wide, is the site of the Stetson University Crew Boathouse, near which one can see boat crews racing along the waterway. South of Hontoon Island is the very popular Blue Spring State Park, which has the largest spring on the St. Johns River and is a designated manatee refuge. The most amazing finds on the island by archaeologists include wooden effigies called totems. They include what early visitors called a large owl totem carved from a log, a smaller carving of a pelican, and one of an otter holding a fish. One can see replicas of the totems on the grounds, whereas the so-called owl totem is at Fort Caroline National Monument Museum near the mouth of the St. Johns River north of Jacksonville and
near Mayport. The replica on Hontoon Island may represent the largest wooden effigy ever found in a North American archaeological site and the only totem of its kind in the eastern United States. All in all, a visit to Hontoon Island can satisfy the angler in the family as well as those interested in one of the jewels of the St. Johns River.
Whenever I walk the really old paths around the island, I can picture how Native Americans lived and fished there. The island still retains much of the charm of a pristine wilderness in the midst of the river that was the lifeblood of those who lived in Central Florida over a thousand years ago. Kevin McCarthy, the award-winning author of “South Florida Waterways” (2013 - available at amazon.com for $7), can be reached at ceyhankevin@gmail.com.
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ello, and welcome to the scuba diving column in Coastal Angler Magazine! Each month we fill you in on what’s happening below the surface here in Palm Beach County. This month we’d like to give you some basics about diving in Palm Beach County and why it’s so spectacular. To begin with, Palm Beach is perfectly positioned to take advantage of the blue waters provided by the Gulf Stream. The Gulf Stream flows east along the equator turning north as it swings by Florida and up the eastern seaboard. Its clear-blue, warm waters dip closest to the continental United States right here in Palm Beach, and that’s great for us. This current swings in delivering a bounty of underwater creatures in its flowing tropical waters. Everything from small tropical fish to giant whalesharks gather in our local waters, and different creatures show up in abundance at different times of the year. Because the Gulf Stream brings warm water year-round, we dive all year long. Winter water temps average around 72 degrees and summer temps get as high as 84. The cooler winter waters bring big creatures to our area like migratory whales, whalesharks, and many species of shark, including the migratory lemons and spinner sharks. Spring kicks off our sea turtle nesting season with the giant leatherbacks arriving first, followed by loggerheads and then green turtles. By the time summer hits, it’s sea turtle craziness with nests hatching out and frisky adults lounging on the reefs. Fall brings the giant Goliath grouper in by the hundreds to spawn just offshore on our wrecks and artificial reefs. It’s not uncommon to see more than 50 500-pound grouper on one dive here in August and September. And people come from all over the world just to have a chance to dive with our amazing creatures! Palm Beach is home to the third largest barrier reef in the world, stretching from the Florida Keys up through Jupiter and just into Martin County. Because we have thousands of different species on our reefs, no matter what you enjoy seeing, chances are you don’t have to leave the “backyard” in Palm Beach. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and enjoy the beautiful Florida waters. As a good friend used to say, “Don’t take Florida for granted... she’s good to ya!”
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lorida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) fisheries biologists certified a new state record jaguar guapote, weighing 2.78 pounds and measuring 16.7 inches long. It was caught by 14-year-old angler Jerry Martin from Miami. Martin was thrilled to catch his jaguar guapote in the Snapper Creek Canal (C-2) with live bait. “When I caught it, I freaked out,” said Martin. “I was excited because I knew it could be a state record.” Martin has never targeted jaguar guapote before. He most often fishes for largemouth bass and peacock bass. “It was an accident to catch the state record jaguar, but now I’m planning to start fishing for more records,” he said. Jaguar guapote are primarily known to exist in the urban canal systems of southeast Florida, ranging as far north as West Palm Beach. The species was first reported in 1992 from a photograph of two specimens caught in a farm pond near Miami Canal. The jaguar guapote was made eligible for state record status in 2012, and this is the first confirmed record for this species. Jaguar guapote is one of 34 nonnative freshwater fish species that have become established in Florida. The FWC strongly encourages anglers to catch, keep and eat nonnative fish (except legally-introduced peacock bass and triploid grass carp), as many nonnative fishes provide excellent table fare. In addition, releasing fish from aquariums or moving them between water systems is illegal and could produce detrimental effects.
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TIPS FROM A PRO
FRESHWATER BRANDON LESTER
B
eing from middle Tennessee, I was introduced to many diverse fisheries in my younger years. This area of the country has long been known for great smallmouth bass fishing, as it should be, but in my opinion it can’t compare to the smallmouth fishing in the Great Lakes region right now. I am certainly not bashing the smallmouth fishing down south, but fishing the Elite Series allows me to see some of the best lakes in the country, and the “good ole days” of smallmouth bass fishing on the Great Lakes is right now. Flowing out of Lake Ontario, the St. Lawrence River is one of my favorites on our schedule because it fishes similar to the rivers back home. The river has a lot of current, which positions the fish. The water is clear, and you can catch smallmouth from 2 feet deep all the way out to 60 feet. The St. Lawrence is absolutely full of smallmouth, and 30- to 40fish days are just another day on the water. In addition to the fishing, the area is also just an awesome place to spend time. Waddington, N.Y., which is our host city when we go, is in a very rural part of New York with lots of cropland and cattle farms. If you’ve not visited this fishery, I strongly suggest you do. Lake St. Clair is on fire right now. The final Elite Series tournament of the regular season was held there this year, and overall bass weights were absolutely phenomenal. The big smallmouth of the tournament weighed almost 7 pounds. In the past, tournaments on St. Clair were won by guys who ran to Lake Erie or Lake Huron, but not anymore. It seems now that St. Clair is the place to be. The style of fishing is different than most smallmouth destinations. Lake St. Clair is just a big bowl-shaped lake with a shipping channel running through the middle of it. That’s about the only real contour change on the whole lake. The big keys are
looking for clean spots in the grass and finding bait. If that doesn’t fit your style, you can run up the river toward Huron or down the Detroit River toward Erie. Both rivers have plenty of current and plenty of smallmouth. After fishing a tournament on Lake Champlain this year, it is my new favorite lake in the country. The smallmouth fishing is phenomenal, and you can catch big largemouth, too. The smallmouth hang out on offshore shoals, old bridge blow-throughs and rocky structure around the shoreline. If you get tired of catching them, there is an abundance of milfoil, docks and reeds where largemouth bass are willing and ready to bite. Lake Champlain, in my opinion, has the healthiest population of bass of anywhere I have ever fished, and that makes it fun, period. Plattsburg, N.Y. is a great place to visit, as well, with lots of cool sites to see. If you make one of these trips, be sure you’re prepared with the right MHX rods, Mustad hooks and Vicious fishing line. Hit Brandon up on Facebook or Instagram with any questions.
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t’s got the beaches, with fine white sand and the emerald green waters of the gorgeous northern Gulf of Mexico. It’s got the nightlife, the shopping and fine dining, the beautiful golf courses and everything else that draws vacationers from around the world. But what Destin, Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island—the heart of northwest Florida’s Emerald Coast—have more of than anything else is fishing. Back in 1956, Florida Gov. Leroy Collins called Destin “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” after catching a big king mackerel on a 15-minute photo-op boat ride during the Destin Fishing Rodeo. More than 60 years later, the historic Destin Fishing Rodeo just wrapped up its 69th annual October-long event, proving once again that this fishing village is just as lucky as ever. Daily weigh-ins at the rodeo give spectators a close look at what the waters off the Emerald Coast have to offer. Excitement builds on the docks in front of the landmark AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar when big tuna, wahoo, king mackerel, dolphin, groupers and snappers come to the scales. And in the Billfish Division, the big sportfishing yachts are out there pulling spreads for sailfish—and marlin that easily eclipse the 500-pound mark. There have been a couple grander blue marlin caught on the northern Gulf Coast over the years and a few more that came very close to tipping the scales past the 1,000-pound mark. Even swordfish show up pretty regularly, meaning there’s a real possibility for a grand slam fishing out of the marinas of Okaloosa County. It’s world-class fishing on the Panhandle, which in recent years has seen the big pelagic species moving closer to shore with changing currents. And what’s more, the action is yearround. There’s a good reason the world’s largest charter fishing fleet is based out of Destin Harbor.
Nearshore
Nearshore, warm and fertile Gulf waters coupled with numerous wrecks and reefs to create some of the most bountiful fishing Florida has to offer. With a short boat ride less than 8 miles off the beach, anglers can bottom fish or troll with family pleasing and cooler-filling consistency for amberjack, numerous snapper and grouper species, cobia, blackfin tuna, king and Spanish mackerel and more.
Offshore
Due south about 25 to 30 miles out, the continental shelf drops and there are multiple renowned hotspots, with some of the best big game fishing in the Gulf. South Florida seems to get most of the bright, hot spotlight when it comes to the big pelagics, but serious anglers out of the Emerald Coast quietly and consistently catch serious fish. Whether it’s a full-day trolling trip or an overnight expedition deep into the Gulf, dolphin, blue marlin, tuna and
wahoo are available to those who mean business when it comes to fishing.
Inshore
Those who would rather explore grass flats and oyster beds in search of trout or tailing redfish will also find that on the Emerald Coast. Inside East Pass and Okaloosa Island, Choctawhatchee Bay spreads out vast and shallow. It’s the perfect place to launch a skiff or a kayak into 130 square miles of inshore action that’s some of the best on the Panhandle.
Spring Cobia
Finally, any discussion of fishing options around the Emerald Coast has to include the cobia run, which is one of the best on the planet. Book your charter now, because in spring—peaking in April—cobia that have migrated north along the Gulf Coast arrive off the beaches bringing some of the most exciting fishing there is. This is sight fishing for one of the ocean’s tastiest and hardest fighting fish, and during this spring run they can arrive with weights in excess of 100 pounds. With a spotter in the tower, you cruise the clear blue-green waters looking for the telltale brown shadows of a pod of cobia doggedly pushing west. With a Airline_CoastalAnglerAd_3-2016_Layout 1 3/18/16 1:07 PM Page 1 smooth approach, the boat moves to intercept, and then it’s up to the angler to make an accurate cast with a live bait or a jig. Anticipation is almost unbearable for a few seconds before the take, and then bedlam breaks loose. Cobia put up the most unpredictable fight in fishing. They are capable of long, drag-burning runs, leaps, rolls and deep dives, but sometimes they save the thrashing until they hit the deck. Either way, catching a big cobia is exciting, and there’s no better grilling fish that swims. So, while the Emerald Coast offers gorgeous beaches and all the activity of a top-notch beach vacation destination, on the water it remains what it was before the Miracle Strip and Harbor Boulevard grew up around it. It’s one of the best fishing destinations in the world in terms of quality, quantity and variety of angling opportunities. For information, go to www.emeraldcoastfl. com. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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I
I
At Harbor Freight Tools, the “Compare” or “comp at” price means that the same item or a similar functioning item was advertised for sale at or above the “Compare” or “comp at” price by another retailer in the U.S. within the past 180 days. Prices advertised by others may vary by location. No other meaning of “Compare” or "comp at" should be implied. For more information, go to HarborFreight.com or see store associate.
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
*Original coupon only. No use on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase or without original receipt. Valid through 3/1/18.
hft_coastalangler_1117_M-REG109349.indd 1 CANGL_NAT3-NAT18.indd 17
12" SLIDING COMPOUND DOUBLE-BEVEL MITER SAW
Customer Rating
Customer Rating
7
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
JUMP STARTER AND POWER PACK
• 5 mil thickness
COMPARE TO
ITEM 62314/63066 66383 shown
29
SUPER COUPON
$599
99 SAVE 60%
COMPARE TO
1399
LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
SUPER COUPON
5755
MODEL: H-21
99
*52365913 * 52365913
LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
29
$
59
*52362225 * 52362225
$
$ 99 *52390682 * 52390682
LOWE’S
• Weighs 97 lbs.
COMPARE TO $ 98 IRWIN UNIBIT MODEL: 15504PKSM
ITEM 69676/69729/63080/63079 shown ITEM 69728/63090/63089, CALIFORNIA ONLY
$
COMPARE TO
99
ITEM 69087 60379 91616 shown
98
*52331956 * 52331956
LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
$8
$3999
COMPARE TO $ 62 PORTER-CABLE MODEL: PCFP02003
Customer Rating
SAVE 65%
3 PIECE 26", 4 DRAWER TITANIUM TOOL CART HIGH SPEED STEEL • 6200 cu. in. of storage STEP BIT SET • 580 lb. capacity
SAVE 85%
YOUR CHOICE
5699
LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating
99
HEAVY DUTY FOLDABLE ALUMINUM SPORTS CHAIR
$54
ITEM 60637/61615 95275 shown
SAVE 59% $ • Air delivery: 0.6 CFM @ 90 PSI, 1 CFM @ 40 PSI
$1 999
ITEM 62515 66911 shown
LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
• GFCI outlets
$
119
99
A. HOT DOG
ITEM 69269/97080 shown
B. PANCAKE
STEP STOOL/ WORKING PLATFORM
Customer Rating
*52352148 * 52352148 • Drill 28 Hole Sizes from 1/8" to 3/4"
B
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
$
SAVE $64
1999
*52331660 * 52331660
MODEL: 7424XP
SUPER COUPON
SUPER QUIET
$
PORTER-CABLE
LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
4000 MAX. STARTING/ Customer Rating 3200 RUNNING WATTS 6.5 HP (212 CC) GAS GENERATOR
$9
COMPARE TO
Tools sold separately.
$12999
99
8497
A
SAVE 88%
YOUR CHOICE
MODEL: H2DTWA
Customer Rating
ITEM 93454/69054 63395/62603 shown
$
COMPARE TO
SUPER COUPON
3 GALLON, 100 PSI OIL-FREE AIR COMPRESSORS
LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
SUPER COUPON
SAVE $285
• Accuracy within ±4%
Customer Rating
LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
60" HARDWOOD WORKBENCH 6" VARIABLE SPEED WITH 4 DRAWERS DUAL ACTION POLISHER
LIMIT 1 coupon per customer per day. Save 20% on any 1 item purchased. *Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or any of the following items or brands: Inside Track Club membership, Extended Service Plan, gift card, open box item, 3 day Parking Lot Sale item, compressors, floor jacks, saw mills, storage cabinets, chests or carts, trailers, trenchers, welders, Admiral, Bauer, Cobra, CoverPro, Daytona, Earthquake, Hercules, Jupiter, Lynxx, Poulan, Predator, Tailgator, Viking, Vulcan, Zurich. Not valid on prior purchases. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 3/1/18.
LIMIT 1 - Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or prior purchase. Coupon good at our stores, HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Offer good while supplies last. Shipping & Handling charges may apply if not picked up in-store. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 3/1/18. Limit one FREE GIFT coupon per customer per day.
*52330318 * 52330318
LIMIT 8 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
*52309815 * 52309815
*52320448 * 52320448
SUPER COUPON
SAVE 70%
ANY SINGLE ITEM
ITEM 63604/63758 98025/69096/63759/90899 shown
LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
$9
20% OFF
• 3.5" LCD Display • Battery Included
MODEL: DCD780C2
12 VOLT MAGNETIC SAVE TOWING LIGHT KIT $106
13
51
MODEL: MT-1210
*52324497 * 52324497
LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
$
ANY PURCHASE
7 FUNCTION DIGITAL MULTIMETER
COMPARE TO
HOME DEPOT
SAVE $80
99
ITEM 63100
WITH
Customer Rating
• 576 in. lbs. of torque • 2.5 amp hour battery • Weighs 3.6 lbs.
$7999 $9599 Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
20 VOLT LITHIUM CORDLESS 1/2" COMPACT DRILL/DRIVER KIT
HUSKY
20"
SAVE $69
Customer Rating
$
FREE
M-REG109349_CoastalAnglerMagazine
DEWALT
BEATS
SUPER COUPON
NOVEMBER 2017
NATIONAL
17
10/6/17 9:40 3:42 AM PM 10/19/17
SUZUKI MAKES IT
EASY AS
1-2-3
The leaves might be falling, but the deals are just starting to spring up at your Suzuki Marine dealer. Make your best Fall Boat Show deal on a new Suzuki outboard from 25 to 300 horsepower and take advantage of not just one, but all three special Suzuki offers. See your Suzuki Marine dealer today and get on the water with a powerful, reliable new Suzuki.
REPOWER FINANCE
1. Six Years of Protection at no extra charge on all new outboards 25 to 300 HP.
2. Cash Rebates on select models. See your dealer for details.
3. Rates as low as 5.99% on new Suzuki outboards (OAC).*
Gimme Six Extended Protection promo is applicable to new Suzuki Outboard Motors from 25 to 300 HP in inventory which are sold and delivered to buyer between 9/01/17 and 12/31/17 in accordance with the promotion by a Participating Authorized Suzuki Marine dealer in the continental US and Alaska to a purchasing customer who resides in the continental US or Alaska. Customer should expect to receive an acknowledgement letter and full copy of contract including terms, conditions and wallet card from Suzuki Extended Protection within 90 days of purchase. If an acknowledgement letter is not received in time period stated, contact Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. – Marine Marketing via email: marinepromo@suz.com. The Gimme Six Promotion is available for pleasure use only, and is not redeemable for cash. Cash Rebates apply to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki Outboard Motors made between 9/01/17 and 12/31/17. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine.com. Customer and participating Dealer must fill out the appropriate rebate form at time of sale. Cash rebate will be applied against the original dealer invoice (Suzuki will credit Dealer parts account). There are no model substitutions, benefit substitutions, rain checks, or extensions. Suzuki reserves the right to change or cancel these promotions at any time without notice or obligation. * Financing offers available through Synchrony Retail Finance. As low as 5.99% APR financing for 60 months on new and unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors. Subject to credit approval. Not all buyers will qualify. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. $19.99/month per $1,000 financed for 60 months is based on 5.99% APR. Hypothetical figures used in calculation; your actual monthly payment may differ based on financing terms, credit tier qualification, accessories or other factors such as down payment and fees. Offer effective on new, unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors purchased from a participating authorized Suzuki dealer between 9/01/17 and 12/31/17. “Gimme Six”, the Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2017 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.
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SZ_Q4Promo_1PG.indd 1
10/19/17 9:40 AM 9/8/17 2:55 PM
COMMON CVRS_1117.indd 3
10/18/17 3:19 PM
© 2017 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries
THIS SEEMS TO BE THE PLACE WHERE ALL THE FISH HANG OUT. I THINK I’LL DROP IN.
12”
PROGRAMMABLE
HOT KEYS
PRELOADED
BUILT-IN
BLUECHART® G2 + LAKEVUU¨ HD CHIRP SONAR + CLEARVUU¨ + SIDEVU¨
GPSMAP® 1242xsv
COMMON CVRS_1117.indd 4 17-MCJT512 GPSMAP 1224xsv Coastal Fishing Ad_US-8.125x10.875-CoatalAngler.indd 1
10/18/17 3:19 PM 3/8/17 9:13 AM