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EDITOR : Nick Carter • editorial@coastalanglermagazine.com WEBMASTER : Dmitriy Pislyagin • webmaster@coastalanglermagazine.com ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: Corporate Headquarters info@coastalanglermagazine.com • 888-800-9794 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 • (407) 960-2340 • donm@coastalanglermagazine.com FLORIDA KEYS : Ed Gocher • (305) 587-9101 • ed@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 Flaitz • (352) 598-4219 • maryf@coastalanglermagazine.com NAPLES : Mike Weber • (414) 531-4172 • mikew@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 OKEECHOBEE : Ken Gabryel • (863) 532-3671 • keng@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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Catching Winter Cobia In The Keys By John Steinhorst
F
ebruary through April offers some of the most productive fishing of the year in the Florida Keys. An amazing variety of migratory fish species travel to the Keys as cold water temperatures push them south in the Gulf of Mexico and on the east coast. The most convenient place to base a Keys fishing adventure is directly out of Marathon, which comfortably rests in the middle of this tropical island chain. Marathon encompasses a unique collection of islands, creating the ideal boating and family destination with access to both ocean and gulf waters but far enough from the crowded streets of Key West. Capt. Chris Morrison, a 20-year Keys veteran who guides out of Marathon, enjoys hooking excited anglers up with these hungry migrating species, which include record-breaking cobia, king and Spanish mackerel, trophy sailfish and several species of jacks. Versatility is the name of the game, and options are abundant. Most often the best plan is to just decide where you want to fish, from the immense Gulf or blue ocean waters to the many reefs and wrecks surrounding the islands. Then be ready for anything when you get there. There are several techniques that work for each species, and Morrison utilizes a wide variety to keep his 8
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Temple Fork Outfitters’ Gary Loomis Inshore boat, although cobia sometimes swim with bull sharks and rays. Start drifting live shrimp back Series rods bending and his clients smiling. Live bait and jigs are most productive to with light monofilament leader and small hooks, ensure positive results. Pinfish and live shrimp and you are bound to get action from one of are among the easiest to obtain, since most local several species of snapper. If you start getting bit bait shops carry them. Deep jigs, such as butterfly off clean, add a piece of leader wire and you will types, and ¼- to 1-ounce bucktails are essential likely get hooked into a cero or king mackerel. to carry in your arsenal. For catching cobia, If you decide to fish the bay or gulf side of the present the pinfish on ocean-side wrecks and Keys island chain, you might want to anchor reefs as well as Gulf waters from 15 to 100 feet in 10 to 15 feet of water and hang that chum using the same rig for grouper down deep. Limit bag for landing Spanish mackerel. Head out to is one per person with a 33-inch size minimum. deeper Gulf waters and expect more cobia, king On sunny days, Morrison likes to spot cobia mackerel, and goliath and gag grouper. The with his polarized sunglasses from the tower of wintertime fishing action in the Florida Keys will his SeaVee boat above the reef line or in blue be sure to heat up your reel. If you need an expert light-tackle fishing water when a color change edge is present. When you see a cobia on the surface, cast the bait in guide, Capt. Chris Morrison has guided anglers front with no weight and at least 60-pound to more than 100 world records and received monofilament leader. Wire is usually necessary a Lifetime Achievement Award from the on your jigs as king, Spanish, and cero mackerel International Game Fishing Association. Visit are numerous throughout these prime fishing www.captchris.com for more info. grounds. John Steinhorst has contributed to many If you do not have a guide, the reef line on the ocean side from 25 to 40 feet is a good place publications during the last 20 years and can to start. Anchor and hang a chum bag over the be contacted at www.JohnSteinhorst.wix.com/ IslandMedia. side with ground-up frozen baitfish. Chum brings the For more Cobia fishing in the Keys, go to party to the back of your COASTALANGLERSALTWATER.COM
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Captain Fantastic.
How have so many of Marathon’s light-tackle guides achieved super-hero status? Because whether it’s tailers in the shallows, migrating tarpon out front or snook and redfish out back, our professional captains come to the rescue by putting you onto some amazing angling action. fla-keys.com/marathon 1.800.262.7284 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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RodsandReels Product Review AVET REELS SXJ 6/4 RAPTOR Since 1999, Avet Reels has been bringing to the market revolutionary reel designs that set the standard for performance. Their innovative SXJ 6/4 Raptor lever drag casting reel features Avet’s patented dual carbon fiber drag system, which produces twice the drag of the original Avet reels. The powerful system features adjustable strike pre-set and a strike stop button to prevent accidental advancement. The reel’s one-piece frame is precision machined 6061 T-6 marine grade aluminum with stainless steel components and is anodized for superior corrosion resistance. An offset machined handle arm reduces center-line profile and cranking wobble and is capped with a comfortable soft-touch handle knob. The two-speed transmission has a user-friendly shifting mechanism. Avet’s silent dog and gear anti-reverse system and M.C. Cast adjustable magnetic anti-backlash cast control system, both patented, are some of the most innovative and reliable in the industry. The SXJ 6/4 Raptor has nine stainless ball bearings, an alarm clicker and a light, narrow spool designed for optimal jig casting efficiency and less line leveling on the retrieve. It’s proudly made in the U.S.A.
CANYON REELS EX-80 TWO SPEED TROLLING REEL In case you hadn’t heard, Canyon Reels has redesigned its powerful EX-80 Two Speed Trolling Reel to give anglers the edge when pulling spreads for huge fish. The original EX-80 was extensively tested and matched up very well against the giants off the Northeast coast. When the captains made suggestions, Canyon listened, and the result is an even better EX-80, which features multiple upgrades that make it smoother, and easier to use. The EX-80 is a monster reel. It boasts a max drag of 105 pounds at strike and more than 155 pounds at full drag. A pre-set feature allows for accurate drag settings with an easy one-touch shifter. Upgrades include additional harness lugs that provide better balance control, an all new double drag system for drag runs that are even smoother than the original, and an oversized T-bar handle for additional cranking power. Several other improvements have also been made to increase the durability of this already remarkable reel. The end result is an incredibly smooth and user-friendly reel with the power to stop any fish in the ocean.
WWW.AVETREELS.NET
WWW.CANYONREELS.COM
ENIGMA HPT TITANIUM CASTING RODS
JP ROSS BEAVER MEADOW
Enigma Fishing is raising the bar on performance, while lowering the price point. Every aspect of their HPT Titanium Casting Rods were designed with extreme attention to detail. These high-performance tournament level rods are designed with premium, ultra-light Japanese Toray Carbon proprietary blend blanks. The HPT rods were designed and tested with input from professional anglers such as three-time Bassmaster Elite Series Angler of the Year, Aaron Martens. Enigma Fishing has customized and precision balanced each individual HPT rod to be ultra functional, exceptionally beautiful and tailored to exacting actions and specifications demanded by today’s tournament anglers. All rods feature premium American Tackle components, including the multiaward winning MicroWave Line Control System, which increases casting distance and accuracy. The blank-through reel seats offer finger-to-blank contact for unparalleled sensitivity and incredible ergonomics and palmable comfort, while further reducing weight as well. Premium cork grips balance out each rod perfectly! Enigma Fishing’s new HPT series features a sleek black rod blank, cork handles, stylish purple wraps and chrome accents. Delivering technique-specific performance second-to-none, the all-new HPT series raises the bar for all others!
WWW.ENIGMAFISHING.COM
MUD HOLE TURNKEY INSHORE ROD KIT
The JP Ross Beaver Meadow is a fly rod meticulously designed to fish the beaver dams and plunge pools of small trout streams where an 11-inch fish is a trophy. That’s not to say this rod can’t handle an 18-inch brown on big water, but blue lines are where it shines. It is a short, sensitive rod with the feel needed for the gentlest of nibbles but enough power to reach out 50-plus feet with a hopper-dropper rig. The Beaver Meadow is available in a 5’ 2/3-weight, two-piece and a 6’6” 2/3-weight four-piece for fishing small streams with wet flies and dry flies. The 6’6” also has the ability to cast medium weighted streamers. The 7’6” 4-weight four-piece, the 7’9” 3-weight fourPhoto by Draper White piece, and the 8’0” 5-weight four-piece all have the shorter length required for tight quarters but the backbone to land larger fish and cast streamers and multi-fly rigs. JP Ross rods are custom-made by hand in Upstate New York. Each rod is made to order, so the details are exquisite, and components can be customized from the grip and reel seat to the guides and thread color. The Technology used to achieve this awesome balance of sensitivity and power is breakthrough technology, the joining of carbon fiber and fiberglass that JP Ross calls Carbon Silica Hybrid interface. It makes a beautiful casting and wonderfully sensitive rod.
WWW.JPROSSFLYRODS.COM
Mud Hole Custom Tackle is offering amazing value with its inshore fishing rod building kit. This turnkey kit includes everything you need to build your own custom inshore trout and redfish fishing rod. The kit features the extremely popular and versatile SJ842 rod blank. This 7’0” medium-light power rod features a fast action for throwing soft plastics and topwater lures at wary flats fish. Along with the blank, the kit includes a matched guide set, handle kit and everything from the CRB Wrapper, a CRB rod dryer and ProPaste and ProKote Rod Finish along with all the tools needed to build your own custom rod. This is a great set for the avid fisherman who wants to take his or her fishing to the next level. To get started custom building your own high quality rod, visit www.mudhole.com and check out all our Turn Key Kit options or simply Google: Mud Hole Turnkey.
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RodsandReels Product Review OKUMA KOMODO SS BAITCAST REELS
The original Komodo 350 size baitcast reel has been the recipient of tremendous accolades. It is considered an extremely tough reel and an excellent value. For 2017, the Komodo family welcomes the Komodo SS, featuring a new 450 size and stainless steel drive system. The Komodo SS is built around a heavy-duty stainless steel main gear, pinion gear, drive shaft and spool shaft to deliver an internal foundation of unrelenting strength and corrosion-resistance. Komodo SS reels use rigid, machined aluminum frame and spool, aluminum side plates, high-output Carbonite drag system capable of a maximum drag output of 30 pounds, and updated 6-pin Velocity Cast Control System. Performance features include six or seven (depending upon size) stainless steel High Performance Bearings, plus roller bearing, for outstanding corrosionresistance. The synchronized level-wind system does not disengage for casting, which allows it to maintain alignment at all times and eliminated drag pressure spikes when using braided lines. Bait clickers are standard on all models. The Komodo SS series includes two sizes, 350 and 450. The 350 size includes a 6.4:1 gear ratio and maximum drag output of 25 pounds. There are four models in the 350 size. The 450-size Komodo is available in a 6.3:1 gear ratio and a hyperfast 7.1:1 ratio. Komodo SS series baitcast reels are covered by the Okuma 3-Year Limited Warranty.
WWW.OKUMAFISHING.COM
UGLY STIK BIGWATER SERIES Ugly Stik has refreshed its iconic Bigwater series with all-new Ugly Tuff saltwater guides and an updated look. Beginning with Ugly Tech construction, the Bigwater series maintains the toughness for which all Ugly Stiks are known. One-piece Ugly Tuff stainless steel guides eliminate insert pop-outs and provide durability and corrosion resistance for those harsh saltwater applications. The Bigwater series retains the traditional Ugly Stik Clear Tip design for more strength at the tip of the rod. Comfortable EVA handles and conventional reel seats give anglers a non-slip, comfortable grip no matter the conditions. The fly, standup, downrigger/dipsy diver, surf, spinning and casting models have also been upgraded to include a standard seven-year limited warranty. Four Bigwater spinning combos and two trolling combos for downrigger applications are also available. The combos feature a graphite spinning reel, available in sizes 50, 60 and 70, and have a durable aluminum spool. The reel featured on the Bigwater downrigger combos is a size 30 line counter round reel with a metal handle and power knob.
PENN SLAMMER III The Penn Slammer III, which won Best of Show in the saltwater reel category at iCast 2016, is the reintroduction of the heavy-duty reel that has become trusted by charter captains around the world. Slammer III reels feature a new IPX6 Sealed System, which keeps water out of the gear box and drag system in heavy spray and sea conditions. An updated Slammer Drag System now utilizes a proprietary Dura-Drag material. With the computer-controlled CNC gear technology system, the precision brass main, pinion and oscillation gears are individually machined for exact tolerances to provide the smoothest operation. Eight models of the Slammer III are available, ranging in size from 3500 to 10500 models. Gear ratios range from 6.2:1 with 37 inches of line retrieve on the smaller reels to 4.2:1 with 43 inches of line retrieve on the largest. Maximum drags start at 30lbs in the smaller models and run to 60lbs on the largest. The oversized reel handle grip gives the angler added control during the fight. The 3500 Slammer III is the smallest of the family weighing 13.9oz while the 10500 weighs 43.1oz.
WWW.PENNFISHING.COM
DANCO BAIT STIK Danco’s Bait Stik is the original rod and reel combo developed specifically for catching bait with a sabiki rig, and it is still the best. The rod in this combo is 7’3” and features two-piece construction with an extra-hard phenolic tip for superior strength and extreme sensitivity. Comfortable EVA grips and a gimbal butt with cover means anglers will be yanking bait from the water with ease. Anyone who has ever tried to store a sabiki rigs knows the frustration of attempting to keep them from becoming a tangled mess. With the Bait Stik, that is not a problem. While not in use, the sabiki rig can be safely and conveniently stored inside the rod, which is a huge plus. The combo comes with either a casting or spinning reel. The spinning reel comes with an anodized aluminum spool, a graphite body and rotor and an oversized eggshaped knob. The casting reel has an aluminum body and side covers, brass gearing and a star drag. Catching bait has never been so easy. When the bait tank is full, rinse everything down with fresh water, store the sabiki rig in the rod and forget about it. Look for the Danco Bait Stik in your tackle store.
WWW.SHAKESPEARE-FISHING.COM
OCEAN 2 RIVER TOURNAMENT COMBO
ZEBCO BIG CAT SERIES Zebco is launching an impressive offering of beefedup rods and reels called “Big Cat” to accommodate serious value-minded anglers who passionately pursue catfish. The spincast reels are built with a titanium nitride plated stainless steel spinnerhead to add durability and reduce friction. Big Cat XT conventional-style reels will likely be the top pick for the most avid trophy hunters from the Mississippi River to Santee Cooper and all waters in between. Two conventional reels will be offered. The Big Cat XT 30 conventional trolling reel will hold 455 yards of 30-pound test. The Big Cat XT 350 round baitcasting reel holds 200 yards of 20-pound test. Worth noting is that a headlamp handy for nighttime catfishing will be free to consumers who purchase rods and reels within the very affordable Big Cat and Big Cat XT series.
WWW.ZEBCO.COM
Ocean 2 River (O2R) Tournament spinning combos are designed to perform to the exacting standards of serious tournament anglers while standing up to the grueling conditions and treatment offered up by hard-core fishermen in the marine environment. The IM-7 fast action graphite rods come with Seaguide Atlas Performance aluminum oxide guides, comfortable cork split grips and a graphite reel seat with a cork inlay and cushioned stainless steel hoods. These rods combine strength with sensitivity and excellent casting power. They are available in medium and medium heavy weights to suit a range of line and lure weights. The reels feature a solid aluminum frame, graphite side covers and rotor and a double anodized aluminum spool to stand up to the saltwater environment. A 5.1:1 gear ratio is suitable for fishing a wide range of lures all day long without wearing out the angler’s wrists and hands. Stainless ball bearings and a comfortable oversized T-knob provide for longer casts, smoother drag runs and comfort while fighting fish. Look for the O2R combo and other fine Danco products in your tackle store.
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ON THE COVER
RHODAN INTRODUCES 72” SHAFT GPS GUIDED TROLLING MOTOR
Editor’s Note:
Each month, Coastal Angler Magazine and The Angler Magazine staff search our vast coverage area for photos that will grace our covers. With well over a million readers in diverse coastal and inland markets, our magazines strive for broad national appeal as well as local-level intelligence to put anglers on fish. The cover is different depending on which edition you, the reader, are holding. The following is a little information about this month’s covers.
COASTAL ANGLER MAGAZINE The Florida Keys, Marathon
FREE
BIG BEND EDITION
The February edition of Coastal Angler Magazine features a cover image of Capt. James Platt with a 35-pound cobia he landed onboard a SeaVee boat about 10 miles out from Marathon’s Tarpon Creek Marina on the ocean side of the Florida Keys. The photo was provided by Capt. Chris Morrison of Keys Light Tackle Fishing Charters, who Local was fishing with Platt when they caught a limit of cobia, along with king mackerel, mangrove snapper and grouper. Morrison uses medium-heavy, Gary Loomis-designed Inshore Series rods from Temple Fork Outfitters along with 30-pound test Cortland Master Braid line to handle cobia and many species he targets in winter months. Home to the world-famous Seven Mile Bridge, Marathon is a group of tropical islands perfectly situated in the middle of the Florida Keys island chain. This ideal boating and family destination offers easy access to the Atlantic Ocean, Florida Bay, Everglades and Gulf of Mexico waters for an amazing diversity. Wintertime in the Florida Keys means anglers see large numbers of migratory fish such as cobia, king and Spanish mackerel, wahoo, sailfish and blackfin tuna pushed down from colder northern waters. Marathon is an excellent destination to base your Keys vacation for an unforgettable adventure. See writer John Steinhorst’s article on winter and early spring fishing out of Marathon in this month’s issue. Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events
VOLUME 22 • ISSUE 265
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THE ANGLER MAGAZINE Ice Fishing On Golden Pond, New Hampshire
WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA EDITION
FREE
This month’s cover image for The Angler Magazine was taken by Chuck Fritz on the ice at Squam Lake in Holderness, New Hampshire. Old Timers might remember the 1981 movie “On Golden Pond.” It was filmed on Squam Lake, and the most interesting storyline in the film had to be the cantankerous Local character Norman’s obsession with catching a humongous rainbow trout named Walter. Squam Lake looks a lot different with a layer of ice over it than it does in the movie, which was shot in the summer. The fishing is still good, though. Just ask Tim Moore, the ice fishing guide who was photographed for the cover with a pretty yellow perch he caught through a hole in the ice. The ice fishing season on Squam and nearby Lake Winnipesaukee generally runs from January through March each year, and anglers target giant white perch and lake trout as well as smallmouth bass, crappie, sunfish and yellow perch. If there’s anyone out there who knows where Walter is hiding after all these years, it has to be Tim. See Tim’s story inside this months issue and check out his website at www.timmooreoutdoors.com. Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events
VOLUME 22 • ISSUE 264
F R A N C H I S E
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MERCURY MARINE’S VESSELVIEW MOBILE AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD
M
ercury Marine’s VesselView Mobile app is now available for free download on the App Store and Google Play in North America. Available for iOS and Android mobile devices, including smartphones and tablets, the VesselView Mobile app instantly provides users access to their boat’s SmartCraft digital data in the palm of their hand. The product recently won a prestigious IBEX innovation award. The VesselView Mobile module, which is needed to fully utilize the app, is available for purchase at participating Mercury Marine dealers, from the VesselView Mobile app or on www.vesselviewmobile.com. The product is compatible with all Mercury SmartCraftcapable engines built since 2003. One module supports single through quad engine applications. SmartCraft is a fully integrated suite of digital technologies, including marine gauges, sensors, vessel systems and computercontrolled features, giving users a higher level of control over their boat’s propulsion and electrical systems. Now, with Mercury Marine’s VesselView Mobile, users can see SmartCraft engine data right on the screen of their mobile device. The app also includes useful new features such as Fuel Information, Maintenance Reminders, Mapping, Performance Summary, and Fault Code Diagnostics. VesselView Mobile makes preparing for and spending a day on the water easier, safer 14
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and more enjoyable by letting users perform the following functions from their mobile device: • Connect to the SmartCraft data network in your boat from your iOS or Android mobile device via BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy 4.0) • See SmartCraft engine parameters like engine hours, fuel burn, water temperature, battery voltage, RPM, etc. (parameters available are specific to each engine family). • Get fault code diagnostic information so you know and understand if that fault is something to be addressed when you return to the dock, or is more urgent. • Fuel Management provides accurate fuel usage data along with fuel remaining plus indicates time and distance to empty when the user enters fuel added via the app. • Locate your nearest Mercury Marine dealer • Get points of interest information for your body of water, including fuel and restaurant locations, and more • Record a moment on the water for future reference • Access checklists associated with your boating lifestyle • Get maintenance reminders and access historical maintenance information logs. Mercury Marine’s VesselView Mobile app also provides users with a Web-based account that gives them and their preferred dealer app and module will be on display at the 2017 an even deeper connection to their boat. The Miami International Boat Show.
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Core Concepts Make
Ice Fishing Easier By Tim Moore
S
pending hours on a frozen lake isn’t easy. Your body works overtime just to stay warm. Then, add the activity level that often accompanies ice fishing, such as drilling or chiseling holes and chasing tip up flags, and it can be downright exhausting. The degree of difficulty extreme cold temperatures add to fishing is what keeps most people from trying ice fishing. While there is a ton of gear designed to make ice fishing easier, core concepts, such as efficiency and mobility go a long way to make ice fishing easy enough for even the most warm blooded people. When you strengthen your core muscles with exercise, you train the rest of your 16
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muscles to work in harmony, which leads to better balance and stability. The same can be said for ice fishing. Exercising core concepts on a regular basis not only improves technique and lure control, but ice fishing actually becomes easier. The hottest new lures and trending techniques might catch a few fish, but they do little to improve your ability as an angler, especially when everything is frozen. Efficiency is arguably the foundation of any core. A highly efficient ice angler accomplishes more tasks in a shorter amount of time, and therefore catches more fish. Being efficient means eliminating unnecessary steps. Fewer steps means more time fishing, and more time fishing means more fish caught. Every second you spend with your line out of the water is time spent not catching fish. Efficiency begins off the ice. There are many things you can do before you leave your house that will make you more efficient. Start by leaving equipment and lures you won’t need at home. If you’re going fishing for panfish and you have larger rods mixed in with panfish rods, you will have extra gear to deal with on the ice. It doesn’t seem like a big deal until you’re fishing in subzero temperatures and the rods you need get tangled with the rods you don’t need. Rigging multiple rods with different lures before you leave your house will also reduce steps on the ice. Then you can cycle through pre-rigged rods rather than tie new jigs in the cold, wind or snow. Have you ever seen the deck of a tournament bass angler’s boat? They have many rods rigged with different lures so they don’t have to re-tie while they are fishing. The same goes for ice fishing, especially when it’s freezing out. The work you do at home pays off on the ice, but there is more you can do while fishing to make things easier, such as putting gear back in its place when you’re not using it. Then when you want to move you have less equipment to put away. Sometimes we are so
excited to get fishing that we tend to lay gear on the ice when we are done using it rather than put it back where it belongs. By the time we decide to move there is gear all over the place, which makes moving harder. The Godfather of modern ice fishing Dave Genz always says, “If it’s easy you’ll do it.” Focus on ways to make everything easier and you will be more productive. The little things add up. Just as backpackers try to shave ounces off their packs to make hiking easier, successful ice anglers are always trying to shave off unnecessary tasks to make fishing easier. The equipment you use also contributes to your efficiency. A Vexilar sonar flasher removes a lot of the guesswork. Figuring out if there are fish under you and their depth could take hours without a flasher. A sonar flasher is easy to use. It will instantly show you the entire water column including the bottom, your jig, and anything else that shows up under you, such as a fish. All in real time! Clam Outdoors makes a number of items specifically designed to make certain tasks easier on the ice. Prices range from a few dollars into the $1,000 range. The simple lowcost products often make a big difference. The Clam Can allows you to carry bait in your pocket. Not a big thing, but it makes a huge difference when it’s cold. Rod Slicks keep ice rods from getting tangled, and Fish Trap shelters get you out of the cold quickly and allow you to move around easier. The parts all have a sum that equals success. Mobility is another important core element of ice fishing. Mobility allows you to cover more water, which allows you to put your lure in front of more fish. Think of ice fishing the same way you do when open water fishing. We rarely head out onto the water and cast in the same spot over and over again. Ice fishing is no different. Every hole you drill is a cast. Make more casts and you’ll catch more fish. If you make a lot of casts in an area and don’t catch anything, move to another area and repeat. Give yourself a time limit, and don’t stay in the same area if you’re not catching fish. Ice Fishing doesn’t have to be cold and difficult. Core concepts that make ice fishing easier also make it more fun. Establish a routine and it will become second nature. By constantly thinking of ways to strengthen your core, you make ice fishing easier. Before you know it, you will be catching more fish than ever before. And who doesn’t love catching more fish? Tim Moore is a full-time licensed fishing guide in New Hampshire. He owns Tim Moore Outdoors and the New England Ice Fishing Academy. For more information visit www. TimMooreOutdoors.com. For more Tim Moore, go to
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12/15/16 1:24 PM
FLORIDA
ENJOY THE MIAMI BOAT SHOW’S ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE
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or those seeking ultimate enjoyment at one of the world’s largest and greatest boat shows, the VIP Experience is the hot ticket for the 2017 Progressive Insurance Miami International Boat Show Feb. 16-20. In its second year at the iconic Miami Marine Stadium Park & Basin, the show will offer more boats, large yachts, marine product debuts, transportation options, dining and fun than ever before. There will be excitement for everyone, but those who prefer more of an upscale experience should treat themselves to the VIP Experience. With ticket packages ranging from $70 to $100 per day, guests will enjoy exclusive access to
the VIP Lounge aboard a 111-foot luxury yacht docked at Pier 9 among more than 100 of the biggest and most extravagant motor, cruising and super yachts ever displayed at the show. The VIP Experience includes upscale dining and beverage service, live music daily, an air conditioned indoor lounge, an open sky deck with stunning views, private restrooms, complimentary Wi-Fi and an array of complimentary services and luxury product displays. All of this comes on top of what the Progressive Insurance Miami International Boat Show is recognized for: a worldclass boat-show experience for more than 100,000 attendees and exhibitors. This year’s show will be the best ever. Organizers anticipate more than 1,300 new boats on display with more new model debuts than ever before. What’s more, the number of boats in-water is expanding to an estimated 550 boats and yachts— all located in the show’s state-of-the-art marina. From sport fishing boats and high performance boats, to personal watercraft and wake sport boats, family cruisers and luxury yachts, there is something for every lifestyle. The show will also once again offer sea trials, where shoppers can take boats out for a spin. This year, more boat exhibitors will participate, giving boat buyers a chance to test-drive a number of options. And be sure to come hungry and thirsty. A highlight of the 2017 show is an enhanced food and beverage program featuring more than 150 options ranging from luxe to casual fare. Whether you choose to come by water taxi, shuttle bus or car, the show offers seamless transportation to and from the show as well as ample and convenient parking options. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day of the show. Regular admission packages range from $25 to $100 for multiple days, and children younger than 15 are free. For more information, go to www.MiamiBoatShow.com. To learn more about last years boat show, go to
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AN AUTUMN SAIL STORY By Michael Landress
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e blasted through the Boynton Inlet on the first full day of fall and set lines in 33 fathoms near one of the many reefs just a short pelican’s glide offshore. It was ramp-to-reef in minutes for the five of us, Capt. Chris Lemieux, Carson, Jeff, Mike and his father-in-law, Joe. It’s one of the many perks we enjoy fishing out of Boynton Beach, also known as the Gateway to the Gulf Stream. Our goal this day was modest, to catch and release Florida’s premier game fish for our senior angler, Joe. During his 84 years, Joe had never battled a sailfish. Unfortunately, any hope of doing so on the reef was quickly trammeled by a school of ravenous rainbow runners that pillaged our lively baits at an astonishing rate. A relative of the greater amberjack, rainbows are feisty on hook and line, but offered no food value for the men of this vainglorious crew. We decided to run farther offshore into deeper water to hunt the harlequin green and yellow denizens of the deep—dolphin! After a short run on a flat
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sea, we arrived at a large patch of pelagic weed drifting in 800 feet of 86-degree water. Baitfish soon rained down upon the blue water after being violently wacked from a cozy dip net by the well-placed palm of our determined captain. After a few minutes, it became evident this seemingly perfect, floating asylum harbored zilch predators. Then, a dark silhouette suddenly appeared against the morning glare 50 feet from the bow of the Conch Cruiser. Shark or marlin I thought. “Sail, sail, sail!” we screamed like school boys. It was Florida’s fish, the sleek marauder that we sought earlier on the reef. As she laggardly cruised on the surface with sail raised, Chris pitched a live threadfin herring a few feet in front of her… a perfect cast. Enticed by the presentation, she gobbled the bait and the fight was on. Lit-up and furiously angry, she raced across the ocean at warp speed. Chris barked for Joe to take the rod, and the grizzled angler complied. After 20 arduous minutes, first mate Carson captured leader and the billfish was free. Underwater GOPRO footage indicated a successful release as her large symmetrical tail propelled her into the depths. There is no photographic evidence of Joe’s multiple naps later that day, but more importantly a fine and weary man was able to complete one of the items on his (chum) bucket list: dueling an autumn sail! For a great sailfish catch fight, go to
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and deep drop fishing for yelloweye snapper, blackfin snapper, queen snapper and mystic grouper. Even when the east winds are howling in the spring and summer months, comfortable fishing conditions exist on the leeward side of the island. When the wind lays down, The Bridge is a short 16-mile run from the marina. The Bridge runs from the southern tip of Eleuthera to the northern tip of Little San Salvador. It’s a 9-mile underwater ledge that averages depths of 200 feet between the two islands with drop offs to 800 feet on the Exuma Sound side and 3,000 feet on the Atlantic Ocean side. Big wahoo, dolphin and yellowfin tuna can be expected here, and you never know when a blue marlin will show up in your spread. The resort offers world class accommodations in the form of 14 two-story, luxury villas with views of both the sunrise and sunset. There is also a well-stocked ship’s store, a new waterfront restaurant, bar and swimming pool. The marina is a state-of-the-art, Blue Flag awarded facility with average depths of 12 to 14 feet that is flushed on every tide making the waters crystal clear. All slips have 30 and 50 amp power and water with dockage for vessels up to 200 feet. There’s a full fuel dock with both gasoline and diesel. Pump out services are also available. Getting here is relatively easy, as there are several carriers with daily flights to and from Nassau. From Nassau, it’s a very short flight to Rock Sound, which is just 30 miles from the cape. Both Bahamas Air and Pineapple Air offer service to and from Rock Sound several days a week. Watermakers Air offers direct service from Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport to and from Rock Sound four times per week. From Rock sound, a cab ride will cost you about $70. There are also car rentals available. The Stuart Sailfish Club, in its 75th year, has announced a Flotilla to Cape Eleuthera for May 5 to May 14. Fifteen member boats have already signed up. If you would like to participate in the Flotilla to the cape, you must be a member of the club. Family memberships are available for just $200. For more information, visit the club’s website at www.stuartsailfishclub.com. For more information on the Cape Eleuthera Resort and Marina, go to www. capeeleuthera.com.
ESCAPE TO THE CAPE
T
hose living in South Florida are fortunate to have Bimini and West End, Grand Bahama a short boat ride from the shoreline. But there’s an undiscovered jewel of the Out Islands within reach for those looking for something more. Just 56 miles southeast of Nassau, lies the Cape Eleuthera Resort and Marina. From bonefish on the flats to blue marlin on The Bridge, this special place is no less than paradise. Just outside the marina in the Exuma Sound, you will find some of the best yellowtail snapper fishing on the planet, consistent gaffer dolphin action
For more fishing at Cape Eleuthera Resort and Marina, go to
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SWIMMING WITH SHARKS
can systematically decimate their food sources by feeding so much in one area that they permanently impact the ability of that food source to regenerate. Sharks act as a regulatory body in these instances through their mere presence. Just by having a shark around, fish and other animals are forced to expand their hunting or grazing grounds and seek out food over larger areas, where their impact will be less dramatic. Sharks play such an integral role to the health of marine ecosystems that studies have found a decline in their populations results in a correlating decline of many commercially significant fish species, including those, like tuna, that are a favorite on our dinner plates. Without sharks in our local waters, we would not be able to enjoy the wide variety of fish species and marine animals that we take for granted. As anglers, there are easy ways to “fish friendly” Photo by Melissa Johnson • A scuba diver watches as two when it comes to sharks. If you’re fishing from shore, try Lemon Sharks swim by on a local reef. to keep the shark in water as you release it so they can maintain a constant flow of water through their gills. If very February at Pura Vida Divers, we dedicate a month to it’s hard to remove a hook from the shark, it’s better to cut the line than shedding light onto one of our favorite, but often overlooked, marine animals: sharks. As scuba divers and nature enthusiasts, we spend more time exerting yourself and stressing the animal. Using non-stainless circle hooks helps lower the longevity of the hook rely on this keystone species to help hold in place the precious balance of underwater, which is beneficial to hammerheads and other species that life that allows our coral reef systems to thrive. Sharks are an easy scapegoat, portrayed by films and most media as are particularly susceptible to exhaustion during catch and release. Helping preserve shark populations is one step towards ensuring aggressive predators. In reality, sharks play an important role policing and that the activities and ecosystems we enjoy today remain healthy for even strengthening the populations of their prey. Sharks are opportunistic predators that feed on old, weakened or generations to come. If you’re interested in learning more about sharks or conservation sick fish. This in turn ensures that only the healthiest members of a fish population reproduce, overall strengthening a species gene pool. efforts, we invite you to join us on Friday, Feb. 24 for a fascinating Similarly, by targeting prey made weaker by disease, sharks help prevent presentation by Angela Smith of Shark Team One. The event will be hosted at Pura Vida Divers, and details can be found on our website at the rapid spreading of that disease through a school. If fish or other marine species thrive without a predatory threat, they www.puravidadivers.com.
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11
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Center sp By Richard L. Matteson Jr. Stuart Rod & Reel Club Staff
Don’t Chase Rust, Protect Your Gear! Save your Fishing Rods, Reels, Tackle Boxes & Especially your Boat!
W
ading puts you in the water with the fish. You are now part of their element, and this gives you an advantage over a noisy boat with a motor or trolling motor and anglers bumping around on it. As a wader you can silently fish under piers and under mangrove branches where boats can’t go or even approach without spooking the fish. Winds and Tide When you wade the lagoon, you need to know the tide and the wind. You don’t want to fish during a slack tide, and you might not want to fish if it’s too windy. You might want to fish out of the wind or with the wind at your back. The tide determines if you fish shallow or deep as well as where the fish are.
Finding Fish As you enter the water, start looking for signs of bait and fish activity. Look for birds on the water or over the water. Use search lures like C.A.L. jigs that can be cast and retrieved quickly and cover a lot of water area. Use heavier jigs in windy conditions. Move quickly without making noise. Vary the speed of retrieve. Fast retrieves in the top of the water column catch ladyfish, jacks and snook, but you might miss trout, redfish and flounder. When you find fish, slow down and fish the area carefully.
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Areas To Wade The South Indian River Lagoon The South Indian River area I fish stretches from Vero Beach to Stuart. The Bridges: Fort Pierce has two bridges. The north bridge has a boat ramp on the east side from which you can wade, and there’s an area across the bridge from Little Jim’s on either side of the second boat ramp. The south Fort Pierce bridge has an area on the east side that stretches to the inlet. South of the bridge on the west side is a fishing area. In Stuart, the north bridge (Jensen Causeway) can be waded on either side and the same is true of the south Stuart bridge (Earnest Lyons). There are two bridges on the St. Lucie River, but they are hard to access for waders. The Shoreline: My favorite wading areas are Walton Road (Port St. Lucie), Walton Scrub, Midway (Ft. Pierce), and Wilcox Road (Vero Beach). On the east side there’s Herman’s Bay (PSL) and Bear Point (Ft. Pierce). Be Respectful Remember the pier owners have the access rights to their piers and don’t want waders parking along the pier areas without permission because it blocks their view of the lagoon. Happy wading! For more wading in the Indian River Lagoon, go to
CAMINSHORE.COM
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1/18/17 10:18 AM
NORTH FLORIDA
FLORIDA TROPHYCATCH BASS PROGRAM
REPORTS DRAMATIC GROWTH
T
he New Year is about celebrating TrophyCatch on Facebook and Instagram (@ accomplishments and setting goals for FishReelFlorida) to keep updated on the new an even better year to come, and the Grand Prize and monthly rewards. The TrophyCatch team is also thrilled to TrophyCatch program is excited to do both. In the previous four seasons, TrophyCatch announce that Phoenix Boats has upgraded has seen a staggering increase in the number of the Season 5 TrophyCatch boat to the sleek participating anglers and qualifying catches. This 819 Pro, powered by Mercury and anchored citizen science partnership has led to more than by PowerPole. The lucky TrophyCatch boat 5,325 approved catches, which is instrumental in winner will be drawn at the end of Season 5 ensuring that FWC biologists are able to make in December—and remember that all of your informed decisions for the management and approved submissions throughout the season increase your chance of winning the boat. improvement of Florida’s lakes and rivers. The TrophyCatch team sincerely appreciates As we start the New Year, and the heart of the largemouth spawn, the TrophyCatch team is its sponsors and partners for supporting excited to reward anglers for their first Lunker TrophyCatch, and are extremely grateful for Club submission, all of their Trophy Club and all of the participating anglers who make the Hall of Fame submissions, introduce new exciting program the most successful angler-driven monthly prizes, new Championship Prizes for the conservation program in the United States. biggest bass caught during Season 5, and add a The data provided when qualifying catches are new Grand Prize category for the heaviest total submitted is being used by FWC scientists. To get involved, go to www. weight of approved catches for the season. This means that the weight of all of your approved trophycatchflorida.com. catches per season (beginning Season 5) will be totaled at the end of each season in December, with the winner For more on the Florida Trophy Catch Bass Program, go to taking home the prize pack of a lifetime. Be sure to follow
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The current TrophyCatch leader is Geoffrey Wells, who caught this 13-lb., 4-oz. largemouth from a private lake.
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COLD WATER CRANKIN’ FOR BASS By Randy “C-note” Cnota
I
f you’re the type to leave the comfort of a warm wife and bed early on a winter morning to go chase little green fish, then we have something besides insanity in common. Getting bass to bite in cold water can be a daunting task at times. With that notion, I automatically go into search mode. I think most anglers would agree that the best search bait for bass is a shad- or crawdad-imitating bait that wiggles, dives, rattles and vibrates. Crankbaits offer all this, and they cover water quickly and efficiently. A bass’s metabolism slows in cold water, but this does not mean they don’t feed. Quite the contrary… bass are opportunistic creatures that will eat when the opportunity presents itself. Even in the coldest waters, a bass will move with lightning speed to crush a crankbait when the presentation convinces the fish it’s looking at a feeding opportunity.
Weather is the biggest factor to consider this time of year. Cold fronts can kill any bite you have going, but after a few days of stable weather, it can be great even if water temps haven’t warmed. In most lakes, bass have the option to move deep during winter’s chill, but this doesn’t mean all of them do. Between the shad die-off and crawfish molt, there’s plenty of food for winter bass both shallow and deep. Find the bait, find the bass. If you were to peek into my cold-water crankbait box, you’d see a variety to cover multiple depths, water conditions and cover. If it’s a lake with shallow grass, I’ll rip a lipless bait through the grass before moving deeper with a flat-sided crank like the Spro Little John or a Norman DD22. In very clear water, it’s hard to beat a Rapala Shad Rap to get finicky fish to eat. This tight wiggling rattle-free balsa bait is hard for bass to resist. I use both shad and crawfish colors for stained and clear water conditions. When ripping a bait through grass, I use a medium-heavy action rod. A 7’2” stick has enough length and backbone to rip a bait free from the grass… a technique proven to get violent reaction strikes. If I’m working over rocks and wood, I prefer a longer medium action rod with more give in the tip for decreasing snags and keeping fish buttoned up. When casting balsa baits, I opt for a light action rod with a very forgiving baitcasting reel, or I’ll use a spinning rod and light line to cast these featherweight lures. In most all of these applications, I spool up with Seaguar InvizX 100% fluorocarbon line. Occasionally I’ll use braid in thick grass, but even then I use a fluorocarbon leader. To get a bait as deep as possible, don’t be afraid to use 8-pound test, but 10-pound test usually works best for me. It’s cold outside and spring is a long way off for the die-hard bass angler. So get out of your warm bed and get your crankbaits in that cold water to see for yourself how effective they can be this time of year. Randy Cnota is the co-publisher of Coastal Angler/The Angler Magazine’s Panama City/Forgotten Coast edition.
For More fishing with Randy ‘C-Note’ Cnota, go to
FORTHELO VEOFFISHING.CO
CASTING DISTANCE POWER AND REEL SETTINGS
By Tobin Strickland • Photo Courtesy of Lews Reels
O
ne of the first things any angler can improve to catch more fish without getting new gear is to increase his casting distance. The first adjustment to make is the “spool tension” knob on the right hand side of any baitcaster. With the lure just hanging from the end of the rod tip, first tighten the knob, then release your thumb and slowly unscrew the tension knob until the lure just begins to fall. On the left side plate, you’ll see the centrifugal brake external setting. If you are new to throwing a baitcasting reel, start with a setting of about 4-6. If you have an internal centrifugal brake, set at least two brakes “out / engaged.” If you want to cast far, you have to make a powerful, rod-loading, casting stroke. It’s compact and uses 2 hands. It’s not a big one-armed cast. Tighten the spool tension knob about a quarter turn and practice casting hard. Once you’re throwing your hardest without backlash, slowly begin loosening the settings and feathering the spool edge a little. Slowly adjust the centrifugal brake setting looser, one click, or one brake, to maximize cast distance. Then slightly re-adjust the spool tension knob. In the end, I find that I can still adjust slightly lighter and manually feather the spool edge with the thumb. This is where you’ll get your longest cast distances. Cast hard my friends. Tobin Strickland (aka TroutSupport) is a field staff angler for Lews Reels. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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LAKE PANASOFFKEE • BUSHNELL • WILDWOOD • SUMTERVILLE • WEBSTER • THE VILLAGES • OXFORD MULBERRY • BARTOW • LAKELAND • POLK CITY • AUBURNDALE • EAGLE LAKE • WINTER HAVEN LAKE ALFRED • HAINES CITY • DAVENPORT • LAKE HAMILTON • DUNDEE • LAKE WALES HILLCREST HEIGHTS • FROSTPROOF • FORT MEADE
Owner: CAPT. MARY BRASHER
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If you have a suggestion for a distribution location for Coastal Angler Magazine, please let me know. You can view all 38 magazines in the U.S., including The Bahamas, Costa Rica and Puerto Rico/Virgin Islands at www.CoastalAnglerMagazine.com Please feel free to send me any fishing photos and comments about the magazine-I would love to hear from you!
E dition Highlights & Business Spotlight Page 6 Tournament & Events Page 8 Photo Of The Month Contest Winner Page 9 Bass Assasins of Polk County Page 13 Lakeland Jr. Bassmasters Page 14-15 Map Page Page 16-20 Local Business Page 24 Find Us Here
Polk & Sumter Edition Staff: Sales, Editing & Production- Mary Brasher Graphic Arts & Design - PPP Graphic Design Distribution - Mary & Larry Brasher, Joyce & Capt Dave Ochs Media Mgr - Patrick Powers Contributing Writers - Capt Keith Mixon, Jim Veal Jr, Capt Dave Ochs, Ron Schelfo, Capt. Scott Taylor, Capt Eddie Perry, Capt Rick Burns, Chris O’Byrne FaceBook -CoastalAnglerMagazineLakelandVicinity Twitter - @camlakeland Instagram- camlakeland Youtube- CAM Sumpter Lakeland
Each month I will bring you the latest and best knowledge for you to put to good use. I also invite you to share my passion for this area and if you would like to become a contributing writer contact us. You can read our magazine online anytime or sign up for a free digital subscription. Just visit our website and never miss an issue! CoastalAnglerMag.com. 1 POLK & SUMPTER
CAM Feb .indd 1
FEBRUARY 2017
Best Fishing Days
2/7 & 2/8 MORNING 2/11 & 2/12 EVENING 2/16-17 EVENING
2/23 MORNING 2/25 MORNING 2/26 EVENING
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
1/17/2017 9:52:49 PM
INDIAN RIVER LAGOON FISHING FORECAST Typically, the month of February can be one of the coldest months of the year. It can also be an excellent time to catch some quality fish throughout our
region. To begin with, speckled trout will search for an easy meal along a sandy bottom adjacent to the grass flats. This is typically true along the eastern shoreline of the Indian River south of Titusville, Florida. These tasty fish will not be able to resist live shrimp when fished under a popping cork. Fishing this unique lure is a great way to attract a nice sized fish. Anglers should keep in mind that the key to catching these fish is to allow the bait to swim just above the bottom. Doing this will increase the amount of strikes from a hungry fish. During this time of year it will not be uncommon to catch a trout that measures over 20” long. Also, the month of February can be a good time to catch flounder. In fact it is one of my favorite species of fish to catch during the cold winter months. It doesn’t take a lot of skill and just a little effort. Typically, flounder feed and can be caught along a sandy bottom adjacent to
KISSIMMEE CHAIN FISHING FORECAST
structure such as bridge pilings or channel droop offs. Most of the time, flounder will sit and wait for a tasty meal to swim by. Anglers will find that flounder can be caught in both inshore and near shore waters. Many anglers will find that flounder are not very picky. Live shrimp, cut mullet or cut clams strips, or small bright colored jerk baits will work best when targeting these tasty fish. One of my favorite ways to catch them is to use a medium action spinning reel combo equipped with 20 pound test braided line and 15 pound test mono leader. Unless you are fishing in a strong current, anglers will want to use a 3/8 ounce jig head for attaching shrimp, cut baits, or scented jerk baits. When fishing inshore, anglers should fish around docks with jerk baits. This will allow one to cast to a target area. When fishing inside the port or along the Canaveral buoy line I suggest drifting. Jigging your bait off the bottom while drifting can be an excellent way to catch one. Anglers will find the flounder bite to be the best near the jetties when a strong NE wind is present. The average length of these flounder can be around 15” with some “door mat” size fish measuring over 22”.
Recent cold fronts have pushed the bass into the shallow cover. The next three full moon cycles should produce some of the best bass fishing of the year. Best places to bass fish on Lake Kissimmee: Jack Slough, 27 Palms, Rabbit Island, Brahma Island, Grassy Island, Eagles Nest, Gobblers Ridge, and Tiger Cove. Best artificial baits are as follows: Spinner Baits, Lipless Crank Baits, Flukes, Speed Worms, Senkos, and Swimbaits. Live baits: Shiners and Chubs. Specks: This is definitely the year of the big slabs. Good numbers ofspecks are being caught in Submitted By: Capt. Keith Mixon Mixin' Work With Play Fishing Charters Lake Kissimmee in the grass lines www.mixinworkwithplay.com and hydrilla patches on 1/8 oz. jigs. 321-212-8484 The Hourglass and the Cypress Ca-
nal are also producing good numbers. Minnow and slip cork rig is best at this time. Big slabs are still pounding on Lake Rosalie in 10-14 feet of water. Long lines trolling with jigs, Road Runners and Beetle Spins are best at this time. Also, could you please publish the following picture for Photo of the Month? Luke Campbell, from Camby, Indiana. Big ‘Ole Bass, 8lbs., 23”, from Lake Kissimmee, January 12, 2017, caught on one of Water’s Edge Fish Camp’s shiners! Submitted By: Capt Dave Ochs Waters Edge Fish Camp 10730 Camp Mack Rd LakeWales, Fl 863-589-6295
TAMPA BAY FISHING REPORT Tampa Bay bite is still steady with a variety of fish. We have been catching Redfish, Snook, Trout, Flounder and Sheepshead. Snook and Redfish are feeding good on shrimp or white bait in the backcountry and river where there is good tidal movement. Flounder are laying on the sand edges in sand holes or potholes. Dragging a jig or shrimp with a split shot along the bottom. Sheepshead are around hard bottoms, docks or sea wall. We’re cutting the shrimp in half either freeline or with a split shot. I have a few open spots available in February. You can book at www.captshawnfishing.com or call 863-860-8502 captshawnfishing@ gmail.com Submitted By: Capt. Shawn Raulerson captshawnfishing.com 863-860-8502
2 POLK & SUMPTER
CAM Feb .indd 2
FEBRUARY 2017
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
1/17/2017 9:52:51 PM
LAKE ALFRED / AUBURNDALE / WINTER HAVEN
St. Petersburg Tides - February 2017
FISHING FORECAST It’s Bass spawning season and we’re seeing many Bass in the 7-11 lb range. Anglers using our “old favorite” the Booyah ½ oz. One Knocker in Royalty Color are bringing in the best hauls. Bass are moving in and out of the shore line at this time. We’re also getting reports that the Bass Assassin Boss Shiners in Electric Shad or Hammer Time colors are “doing the trick”. For best results when using Bass Assassin Boss Shiners, rig them with a jig head and flip, or swim them with a weighted hook. According to our fishermen Lakes Summit, Eloise, Howard, Shipp, and Winter Set in the South Winter Haven Chain; and Lakes Rochelle, Haines, and Alfred in the North Winter Haven Chain are providing the best results. The photo shown is one of our anglers, Austin Chism, bringing in a great catch last February 2016 on Lake Eloise. You can expect the same this year!! We’re still in prime Spec season!! Reports on limits and nice size up to 18” are coming in daily from both boat and pier fishing on many of our area lakes. The overall “best bait” for catching those Specs are Live Minnows. To find out where the current “hot spots” are . . Just give me a call or stop in. Many factors affect our lakes, but our local anglers do a great job of keeping me up-to-date on where the fish are and what baits are working best. Polk County is home to (554) beautiful lakes and offers some of the best fishing in Florida!! Don’t miss out . . Come out and enjoy a great time fishing our area. Remember . . The best time to go fishing is when YOU can GO!! Our 18th season of Ron’s Tackle Box Weekly Bass Tournaments has now ended . . We’ll be back the first of April 2017 . . See you then! Submitted By: Ron Schelfo, Owner RON’S TACKLE BOX, LLC 380 S. Lake Shore Way • Lake Alfred, FL 33850 863-956-4990 www.ronstacklebox.com Check us out on FaceBook and “LIKE” our page.
“Catch” my Weekly Fishing Report every Saturday (6-8 AM) on WFLA 970 AM
Austin Chism Lake Eloise
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10:57 11:33 12:40 2:08 3:35 4:51
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5:12 5:50 6:35 7:27 8:29 12:38 9:37 1:31 10:43 2:06 11:42 2:33 2:56 3:15 3:34 3:54 4:17 4:44 5:15 5:52
Sat 8:08 0.9 6:37 Sun 10:33 0.9 7:33 Mon 8:40 Tue 12:56 9:49 Wed 1:24 10:49 Thu 1:45 11:40 Fri 2:03 Sat 12:26 2.0 2:18 Sun 1:09 2.1 2:35
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0.3 6:54 6:31 0.1 6:53 6:32
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7 Tue 8 Wed
22 23 24 25 26
12:34 1:22 2:06 2:48 3:32 4:19 5:13 6:24
27 Mon 1:53 28 Tue 2:39
2.2 2.1 2.0 1.8 1.7 1.5 1.2 1.1
2.0 2:54 1.9 3:17
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CAM Feb .indd 3
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11:23 0.3 7:15 7:14 12:11 0.4 7:14 12:52 0.7 7:13 1:43 0.9 7:12 2:55 1.0 7:12
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CENTRAL FLORIDA REGION FORECAST February means it time for Mardi Gras, but it is also a time to celebrate – and catch – some big bass here in The Bass Fishing Capital of The World! Here on the Winter Haven South Chain of Lakes, it is just about the best time of the year to go fishing. We have bass that are moving back and forth for spawning stages, there are bass out in some of the “deeper” grass and hydrilla lines, there are bass shallow, it is incredible. So what do we do to find and catch these fish… There is a basic arsenal of baits that you want to have on-deck when fishing the South Chain. You will do very well with the following: 1) A topwater bait such as a Rebel Jumpin’ Minnow or Pop ‘R 2) A weightless fluke in a “natural” color pattern 3) A swimjig in watermelon red or smoke & gold 4) Always have a senko on deck for followers that may swirl and turn back 5) A “lighter” flipping jig or craw for running the cypress trees, lily pads, and outer grass lines. Our lakes here in the “Chain of Lakes City” give us such a wide array of options for fishing. We can fish clean open water from spring fed lakes, to tempered “dark” waters
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pitching and flipping. As we move over to Lake Hatchineha and the Kissimmee Chain we are looking at the same type of bass patterns, primarily. Lake Kissimmee is a whole different creature from the Winter Haven Chain and we have to approach it is with that in mind. Lake Kissimmee has so many vast spawning flats and winter “haunts” for these big green beauties to roam that it can be overwhelming. You may have to “run and gun” a little, but the good news is once you find a productive area, you should be set for a while. With that I mean that if you find good, clean, healthy hydrilla, Kissimmee grass, eel grass, or pads, that is holding bait or bluegills, with clean traditional Florida “black water”, you should find good bass. I’ll never limit your choices, but for me I can jump into anyone’s boat and roll-out with 3 rods on the deck and these baits: a Gambler EZ Swimmer, a Spro Frog, and a Vertical Lures Tube-X creature bait for pitching. We are the Official Guide Service of VisitCentalFlorida.org and take great pride in making sure that everyone has the best day possible while fishing with us.
PANA VISTA LODGE FISHING REPORT
Chris Howard Joey Howard Wade Fulgram with nice catch of specs with minnows.
We had some really good spec fishing in early January. Chris Howard, Joey Howard and Wade Fulgam had some really nice catches of specs and a few bass and bluegills while fishing the north end of the lake using minnows. All my local bass anglers have been catching some nice bass as well. Most are using live bait but a few die-hard artificial bait fishermen are doing pretty well too. With this nice warm weather some of the bass are already starting to Submitted By: Capt. Scotty Taylor spawn. Jim and Jimmy Fleming 855-354-8433 from Prattville Alabama caught a Scott@TMCGuideService.com few catfish while they were here over the holidays.
FEBRUARY 2017
February should be another good spec and bass month. Look for the specs to gather in the deeper areas around Big Jones Creek while the bass will start moving in to the shallower areas to spawn. I look for the bass to start spawning pretty heavy in February especially with this nice warm weather we are having. The water is a little lower than normal but the conditions are great. Look forward to seeing you out here !!!! Submitted By: Jim Veal Jr. Pana Vista Lodge Lake Panasoffkee, Fl. 352-793-2061
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
1/17/2017 9:52:53 PM
A NEW Generation of Fish Bait By: John R. Webber
The Pac One
Falcon
Hi, I'm John R. Webber, and along with my wife, Patricia, we make the Whirly Bait. We started this venture in June and we've been going strong ever since. The Whirly Bait is an all in one buzz bait. Which means now you can throw worms, frogs, or any other assortment of plastics. Just insert the plastic you desire onto the barb and slip your hook into the bait. You're done. It's that simple. Now you have a spinner worm or frog, or any spinner bait you want. Best, of all, you still have an awesome buzz bait. We use a 1/2 oz head, .051 wire covered in a plastic wrap to add durability, strength, and a beautiful look to the bait. The #5 laser etched hook assures the best chance for success. I haven't even mentioned the different array of skirts we offer on your bait, so you don't have to buy the skirt separately, like you do with other competitors. The Whirly Bait makes fishing fun, not just for men, but
women love this bait too! So, the next time you are out riding around in Lake Panasoffkee, stop into these Whirly Bait retailers: Captain Neils' Bait shop, Panasoffkee Hardware, and Pana Vista Lodge. Also, the Whirly Bait is located in Anglers' Tackle Shack, in Bushnell, and Brookers Bait and Tackle in Leesburg. Tell them John sent you. And of course, you can always find them on our website:whirlybait.com or whirlybuzzbait.com. Check it out!
The Aurora
TOP WATER PLUGS I want to share with you one of my favorite ways of fishing. Being top water plugs. And then onto the report. Top water plug fishing is an “must method” way of fishing in my area. The waters I guide my clients to is really no different than a lot other places in the state in that it is teeming with Redfish and Trout. What is different is that we are blessed with the oyster bars and lime rock outcroppings, which is fabulous structure for all fish. You either have to fish something totally weedless or top water. So you could say I was forced at an early age to learn top waters. However, I’m not complaining. Our home boys like the reds and trout readily crash top water plugs. Our flats are clear in a lot of places and super skinny in more. You may have heard me say it before, but a top of the limit 27” redfish can be totally submerged in 7” of water. They like the skinny water during the winter because that water warms up the quickest. These fish like all other game fish key in on injured or disoriented prey. (No different than a lion keying in on an injured or slow antelope.) A lot of top waters mimic this wounded action like prop plugs,concave mouth chiggers, and my favorite, “walking the dog” type plugs. One of the “TOP” 5 plugs of all time is the top water Zara-Spook. This plug annihilated fish over 60 years ago, and is still doing it today with its side-to-side walking action. It is so good that there are several
others on the market today that have the same type of action. Ones such as Mirror lures top dog, she dog, and top dog jr. The rapala skitter-walk and the Excalibur spit-n-image to name a few. Think about it. The first thing an injured, wounded or dying bait fish does before they “give up the ghost” is start fighting and gulping for air on the surface. These healthy game fish know this and tune in on em. So is it important to walk the dog? If you can or do, you surely relate. If you don’t,but can rub your stomach and pat your head at the same time, you have what it takes to get in on some of this heart stopping action. When you can see, or(fool) that fish to explode on your artificial offering, it just doesn’t get any better. You’re rubbing and patting, aren’t ya? Our February fishing should be pretty decent barring any nasty cold fronts. If it is too cold and nasty, stay home and be productive and wait about 5 days for it to warm back up. If it is an enjoyable day to be on the water, try the plug fishing. Namely top water plugs. Utilize behind the islands to get out of any north breezes, that’s where the fish will be. Look for schools of mullet, other game fish will be around. The specks are still biting well around our fresh water chain of lakes. Jigs tipped with minnows has been working best. Submitted By: Capt. Rick Burns Reel Burns Charters Homosassafishingguide.com 352-201-6111
Purple Passion COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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Your Polk & Sumter Tournament News & Community Events FEBRUARY1, 8, 15, 22 Florida’s Natural Grove House Visitor’s FEBRUARY 11 Xtreme Bass Series Tournament on the Kissimmee Center Wednesday Events www.floridasnaturalgrovehouse.com Chain out of Camp Mack Contact Mike Blocher XBSMike@ FEBRUARY 2 & 4 Junior Program -50 yard Range & Training Range Verizon.net 1:00 Lakeland Rifle & Pistol Club lakelandrpc@gmail.com
FEBRUARY 11 Full Moon Howl 2017 rpaul@peacerivercenter.org
FEBRUARY 2, 9, 16, 23 Polk County Visitor Center Hosts Seasonal FEBRUARY 12-13 Winter Series-Tampa Palms Golf & Country Farmers Market Contact Dennis Budde (863)420-2586 Club-Four Ball Round 1- 1:00pm Round 2-8:30am (813)972-1444 FEBRUARY 3 Bartow Rotary Clubs present Yellow Jacket Stomp Adventure Run VI Mosaic & Mary Holland Parks 10-11:30am Contact Steve Githens (863)529-8679
FEBRUARY 16 Governor’s Baseball Dinner 6-8pm Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium Lakeland psmith@lakelandchamber. com.
FEBRUARY3-5 Tom Lause 54th Dixie Shoot NSSA Registered Shoot Polk County Skeet & Trap Club (863)299-4853
FEBRUARY 17 Coach Bonneville’s Friday Night Lights “GRIND” Football Camp Haines City High School 6-7:30pm Ages 12-18
FEBRUARY 4 Advanced Junior Training Program 9:30am Lakeland Rifle & Pistol Club lakelandrpc@gmail.com
FEBRUARY 18 Learn The Joy Of Fly Fishing At Andy Thornal The Class Runs from 9-3 All equipment, food and drink, t-shirt and FEBRUARY4 Lakeland Bassmasters Team Tournament on the notebook/outline are included. Students will learn casting, Winter Haven Chain out of Lake Shipp Park contact Martin tactics, equipment and knots. Classes are limited to eight students. Pre-register by calling (863)299-9999 or check www. Bozeman (863)640-8349 andythornal.com in the fly fishing section FEBRUARY 4 Color The Trail 5K & Fun Fest 7am-12pm Bone Valley ATV Park Contact Emma McKenzie (863)534-6911 emmamckenzie@ FEBRUARY 18 Rimfire Bench Rest 100yd Range 8am-11am Lakeland Rifle & Pistol Club lakelandrpc@gmail.com polk-county.net FEBRUARY 4 Lakeland Jr Bassmasters Tournament on the Winter Haven Chain out of Lake Shipp Ramp Contact Martin Bozeman (863)640-8349@Verizon.net FEBRUARY 4 Xtreme Bass Series Tournament on the Winter Haven Chain out of Lake Shipp Ramp Contact Mike Blocher XBSMike FEBRUARY 4 Holloway Park Annual Half Marathon, 10.55K & 5K 8am-12pm Holloway Park Lakeland info@hollowaypark.org FEBRUARY 4-5 The Dixie Warmup Starts at 8:30am Polk County Skeet & Trap Club Winter Haven Call Frank or Stella (813)6858700 FEBRUARY 4,11,18,25 Rodeo at Westgate River Ranch 7:30-9:30pm (800)608-1462 FEBRUARY 4, 11, 18, 25 Florida’s Natural Grove House Visitor’s Center Saturday Events www.floridasnaturalgrovehouse.com FEBRUARY 5 NRA High Power Clinic-9:00am Match Start- 10:00am FEBRUARY 7, 14, 21, 28 Country Music Jam At Catfish Johnny’s Restaurant Lake Panasoffkee Door Open at 10:30- Serve lunch until 12:00 $12 pp (includes lunch)
FEBRUARY 18 Xtreme Bass Series Tournament on Crooked Lake out of Bob’s Landing Contact Mike Blocher XBSMike@Verizon. net FEBRUARY 18 Jacksonville Bass Club Tournament on the Kissimmee Chain out of Camp Mack
FEBRUARY 18 South Pasco Bassmasters Tournament on Walk in Water out of the County Ramp FEBRUARY 18 Bass Assassins of Polk County Tournament on the Winter Haven Chain out of Old Shipp Ramp Contact Alex Handley (808)778-2954 FEBRUARY 18-19 Lake Wales Arts Festival on Shores of Lake Wailes (863)676-8426 FEBRUARY 19 Jacksonville Bass Club Tournament on the Kissimmee Chain out of Camp Mack FEBRUARY 19 Lakeland Bassmasters Draw on the Kissimmee Chain out of Camp Mack Contact Martin Bozeman (863)640-8349 FEBRUARY 19 Bass Nation HS Series Tournament on the Winter Haven Chain out of Lake Shipp Contact Martin Bozeman (863)6408349
FEBRUARY 10 Central Florida Health Expo 9-3 International Market World Flea & Farmers Market in Auburndale (863)248- FEBRUARY 21 Scenic Sumter Heritage Byway Corridor Advisory Group Meeting 11:00am Dade Battlefield State Park Dawn Cary 7537 or info@winterhavenchamber.com (352)267-8801 Sumterbyway@gmail.com FEBRUARY 10 Rotary Twilight 5K Run 7-9pm Lake Hollingsworth FEBRUARY 23 Bartow Chamber Barn Boogie at the Peace & Buckingham Lakeland Scott.LaRonde@publix.com Valley Enterprise Barn in Alturas 5:45-9:00pm Contact Virginia FEBRUARY 11 Phillips Bait & Tackle Customer Appreciation Day Condello (863)533-7125 8:00-2:00 www.PhillipsTackle.com FEBRUARY 25 3rd Annual Community Free Family Fun Festival FEBRUARY 11 Pistol Match 50 yard Range 8:30am Lakeland Rifle Downtown Central Park Winter Haven 11-5 amanda@ & Pistol Club lakelandrpc@gmail.com winterhavenchamber.com FEBRUARY 11 MacDill Bass Busters Tournament on Crooked FEBRUARY 25 Taste of Winter Haven 6-9pm Greater Winter Haven Lake out of Bob’s Landing Chamber of Commerce All You Can Eat & Drink for $35 amanda@ FEBRUARY 11 West Coast Couples Tournament on Crooked Lake winterhavenchamber.com
out of Bob’s Landing
FEBRUARY 25-26 Florida Junior Trail at Stone Creek GC (Boys 1618) Ocala Sat 11am, Sun 7:30am (352)854-1272
FEBRUARY 11 Jr Bassmasters Team Series Tournament on the Kissimmee Chain out of Camp Mack Contact Martin Bozeman FEBRUARY 25-MARCH 13 2017 Polk Senior Games Two weeks of 40 (863)640-8349 Olympic-style sports and games for men and women 50 years and FEBRUARY 11 FOM Team Fl Central Division Tournament on the over. Throughout Polk County Deena Wilbur Ex Dir (863)533Winter Haven Chain out of G. Roe Park Contact William-(that’s 0055 polkseniorgames@verizon.net an underscore)rutkowski@yahoo.com 6 POLK & SUMPTER
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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
1/17/2017 9:52:57 PM
Bass Assassin’s of Polk County
Winter Haven North Chain 1. Tom Martins/Andy Himmel 20 6 lbs & Big Bass 8.8lbs 2. Jason Fletcher/Daniel Smith 20.61bs 3. Robbie/Kash Singer 17.0lbs 4. Robert Corey/Lonny Gates 15.2lbs 5. Rodger Weigel/Joe Magnayta 13.8 lbs 6. Barry/Wendy Norton 11.8 lbs 7. Dalton Hanger/Kerry Wood ll.4 lbs 8. Alex Handley/ Wade Bess ll.4 lbs 9. Frank S./ Bruce B. ll.0 lbs 10. Danny/ George I0.8 lbs 11. Bryan Vaughn/Doug 10.6 lbs 12. Steve/Trina Pritchard 10.6 lbs 13. Cory V 10.6 lbs 14. Russell/Angela Kaufman 10.6 lbs 15. Keith Brown/Dennis Milton 10.6 lbs 16. Keith Kocelsky/Rob Rick 10.4 lbs 17. Jimmy Saxon/Randy Johnson 9.6lbs 18. Ethan/Brett 9.0 lbs 19. Austin/Cody 8.8 lbs 20. . Austin Chism/Hunter Me 8.6 lbs 21. Mark Solgny/ Kathy 8.6lbs 22. Ricky/Brad 8.4 lbs 23. Jeff/ JC Sippel 7.6lbs 24.Tyler Allan/ RJ Sanger 7.4 lbs COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
1/17/2017 9:52:59 PM
One In Nature
T
he project: The Freestone Skiff. Allen Wyatt owner of Andy Thornal Company in Winter Haven Florida bought the plans 5 years ago from Montana Boats. Allen bought the wood for the project two years ago. In November 2015 a friend of Allen's Marcus Parker helped him cut out the major plywood pieces for the skiff and "scarfed them". The skiff is made of Cypress and Plywood. The gunnels were made from one rare 17' flawless Cypress piece. The "scarfing" technique was used because most plywood comes in 8' panels. To get long planks, plywood is "scarfed". In this case epoxy is used to fasten two pieces of plywood together. Allen started the skiff construction using the "stitch and glue" method which then became the "screw and glue" method because when using the stitch and glue method you need to use wire sutures to hold panels together until they could be joined permanently with epoxy and fiberglass tape. Allen was definately humbled and has since greatly appreciated those in the boat building business! Allen coated the outside of the hull completely with fiberglass, coating with epoxy all exposed wood to encapsulate the boat frame from water and the sun. The process was completed with a high quality marine paint. The Freestone Skiff is 16 1/2' X 66" with oar locks, 60" in the water. Allen also custom made the 9' wooden oars. The Freestone Skiff weighs 200lbs and drafts 6" with two adults. The Freestone Skiff was designed for fly fishing! The skiff has a front brace bar for leaning into to cast and your line will fit nicely in front of it. Allen made an insert on each side of the gunnel for fly rod tips and there are three American made swivel seats for comfortability. The Freestone Skiff was launched Thanksgiving day 2016. The skiff will be used for both pleasure and guided trips. Chris O' Byrne and Hunter both employed by Andy Thornal's, fly fishing school instructors and guides will be the primary guides. The Freestone Skiff is a perfect small lake boat and Allen hopes to get the boat into areas no other boat has been- back into the "Old Florida". The project took more time than Allen had planned with a total boat construction time of 250-300 hours! When asked if he would build one for resale Allen said: "Yes I would...just don't be in a hurry". To book your trip on the Freestone Skiff call Peace Creek Guide Service at (863)8377028. Also, check out the Orvis Recon & Helios rods, and the TFO inshore and bait casting rods for your next trip on the water...available at Andy Thornal's Winter Haven Fl and www. andythornal.com.
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False Casting, Lining It Up Illustration by: Pete Chadwell Based on The Beautiful Addiction By: Chris O’Byrne
F
ly casters have certain advantages over spin and bait casting anglers. Because of the false cast technique, one advantage is their ability to check where the final cast is going to land before they launch it. A searching angler in any scenario will cast near structure, or into current seams or under vegetation many times a day. Each of these might negatively affect their fly line, leader or fly. But it does not have to. To get their cast into those fishy, sheltered spots while avoiding close encounters with nature, the thinking fly angler will consider where each cast should go. After presenting their fly, but before pulling back on the next cast, they check how the fly line, leader and fly are situated. Did water current, boat drift or wind move the rig? Has the fly sunk on top of some structure which needs to be avoided? Has the angler’s position relative to the target changed? Once a mental image of the line’s best location is decided on, they back cast. Now, the successful angler uses the false cast to note where the fly line is aimed. While the line moves above their head, but before committing to putting the line in the water, they use peripheral vision and imagination to predict where the fly line is headed. Is it lined up to hit the fish holding spot and avoid the fly stealing structure? Or is another back cast needed to reposition the line? Something to consider is that luminaries such as Lefty Kreh have suggested that the long bills on “Hemingway fishing caps” might disrupt the skill of tracking the flight of the fly line. As important as it is to gauge upcoming casts, false casting quickly becomes counterproductive. With a view to stealth, keep false casts to a minimum. You can also make the false casts shorter than the presentation cast by stripping in the previous cast a little more than normal, then load the rod well to shoot the necessary amount on the presentation cast. Or, without cracking off your fly, you might make the forward false casts just a touch quicker. False casting is not just a necessity, it is an opportunity to improve your final approach to the fish. While too many false casts should be avoided, if we pay attention, our false casting gives us a chance to be safer while making casts to fishy spots.
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Jr. Bassmaster Events Now Have 4 Divisions 8-14 Boater and Non-Boater 15-18 Boater and Non-Boater Awards and Prizes For Top 3 Finishers In Each Division SPRING QUALIFIER The Cutting Edge Challenge On The Chain Qualifier February 4th 2017 The Winter Haven Chain Check in by 6AM, Launch at safe light, about 6:30 Launch will be from The Old Lake Shipp Ramp Weigh In 2pm At Harborside Restaurant
Date: February 16, 2017 Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM EST Event Description: Join the Florida Sports Foundation, the Detroit Tigers, the City of Lakeland, and Polk Country Sports Marketing...along with the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce as we celebrate ALL the GRAPEFRUIT LEAGUE TEAMS and the start of another great season of Major League Baseball Spring Training in the entire State of Florida - showcasing the new Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland, Florida! For out of town guests looking for special rooms and rates for the Governor's Baseball Dinner, please contact: Hampton Inn South at 3630 Lakeside Village Blvd. at (863) 603-7600 Rate $169 ECCO Suites - newly renovated from Crestwood Inn and Suites at Exit 33 and I-4 with Rate:$139 TownePlace Suites - 3370 US Hwy 98 N 2 miles/5 minutes from the stadium $159 King Studio Suite or $169 Queen/Queen Studio Suite COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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1-Capt. Keith Mixon 321-212-8484 290 Marine Harbor Dr. • Merritt Island, FL 32953 www.MixinWorkWithPlay.com 2-Capt. Rick Burns 352-201-6111 8975 W. Halls River Rd • Homosassa, FL 34448 www.RealBurns.com
22- Old Salt Marine 863-802-0543 1916 Us Hwy 98 North Lakeland, FL 33805 www.OldSaltMarine.com 23- Off The Wall Adventures 863-709-9253 2055 Shepherd Rd. Lakeland, FL 33811 www.OffTheWallAdventures.com
3-Capt. Shawn Ralulerson 863-860-8502 6542 Tula Lane, Lakeland, FL 33809 CaptShawnFishing.com
24- Erwine’s Marine 863-635-4492 250 S. Scenic Hwy Frostproof, FL 33843
4-Capt. Eddie Perry 863-763-7722 4375 US Highway 441 N • Okeechobee, FL 34972 OkeechobeeAdventures.FloridaBoyArt.com
25- FantaSea 863-668-8012 3405 US Hwy 98 South • Lakeland, FL 33803 www.FantaSeaMarine.com
5-Capt. Scott Taylor 855-354-8433 238 Towhee Rd • Winter Haven, Florida 33881 TMCGuideService.com
26- Grape Hammock 863-692-1500 1400 Grape Hammock Rd, • Lake Wales, FL 33898 www.GrapeHammock.com
6-Overdue Adventures 863-559-4480 518 Main Street • Auburndale, FL 33823
27- Action Watersports 863-967-4148 402 Progress Rd • Auburndale, FL 33823 www.ActionWatersports.net
www.ErwinesMarine.com
7-Sky Powersports 863-676-2245 20769 US Hwy 27 • Lake Wales FL 33853 www.SkyPowersportsLakeWales.com
28- Marine Supply of Winter Haven 863-297-7003 1700 3rd St SW • Winter Haven, FL 33880 www.MarineSupplyBoats.com
8-Champs Sports Grill 863-647-5900 6645 S. Florida Ave • Lakeland, FL 33803 www.ChampsToGo.com
29- Hoppy’s Marine 863-439-7616 31499 Highway 27 • Haines City, FL 33844 www.HoppysMarine.com
9-Stone’s Bait & Tackle 863-940-4898 2049 E Edgewood Drive • Lakeland, FL 33803 10-Hurricane’s Grill& Wings 863-324-5157 6370 Cypress Gardens Blvd • Winter Haven, FL 33884 www.HurricaneWings.com 11-Harry’s Old Place 863-324-0301 3751 Cypress Gardens Road •Winter Haven, FL 33884 www.HarrysOldPlace.com 12-Hurricane’s Handi Mart 863-537-1300 5401 Hwy 60 E. • Bartow, FL 33830
15-Catfish Johnnys 863-793-2083 2396 N County Rd 470 • Lake Panasoffkee, FL 33538 www.CatfishJohnnyRestaurant.com
18-Chilton Signs 863-438-0880 28597 Hwy 27 North • Dundee, FL 33838 www.ChiltonSigns.com 19-Chilton Signs 863-337-6272 3237 Hwy 98 South • Lakeland, FL 33803 www.ChiltonSigns.com 20-Ron’s Tackle Box,LLC 863-956-4990 380 S. Lake Shore Way • Lake Alfred, FL 33850 www.ronstacklebox.com
32- Polk Tractor 863-967-0651 3450 Havendale Blvd NW • Winter Haven, FL 33881 www.PolkTractorco.com
34- RYK Seafood 863-294-2300 175 Ave A NW • Winter Haven, FL 33881 www.RKYSeafood.com
14-Bridgemasters 863-676-1009 2131 FL-60 • Lake Wales, FL 33898 www.Bridge-Masters.com
17-Phillips Bait & Tackle 863-666-2248 3780 US-92 • Lakeland, FL 33801 www.CentralFloridaTrollingMotor.com
31- Jimbo’s Restaurant 352-793-8150 965 CR 439 • Lake Panasoffkee, FL 33538 www.Jimbosresort.com
33- Spurlows 863-635-0240 30 E. Wall St. • Frostproof, FL 33843 SpurlowsOutdoorOutfitters.com
13-Camp Mack 863-696-1108 14900 Camp Mack Rd • Lake Wales, FL 33898 www.CampMack.com
16-A Cut Above Polish Shop 863-444-1078 529 East State Rd. 44 • Wildwood, FL 34785 www.ACutAbovePolishShop.com
30- Gary’s Boating Center 863-638-0537 15520 Highway 27 • Lake Wales, FL 33859 www.GarysBoating.com
35- Interstate Battery 863-666-8787
2855 US Hwy 92E • Lakeland, FL 33801 www.InterstateBatteries.com
36- Jeffords Airboats 863-956-3030
1850 Hwy 92W • Winter Haven, FL 33881
37- Cypress Inlet 855-449-7666 2600 W Lake Eloise Dr • Winter Haven, FL 33884 www.cypressinlet.com 38- Millers Fiberglass 863-551-1551 1505 Lake Shipp Dr, Winter Haven, FL 33880 www.facebook.com/Millers-Fiberglass-Repair-157407427716301 39- Big Fish Bait & Tackle 863-815-9492
6908 US Hwy 98 North • Lakeland FL 33809 wwww.CentralFloridaAngling.com
40- Whirly Bait 352-443-0245 Lake Panasoffkee FL 33538 www.whirlybait.com
21-Fly Em High Charters 863-224-1418 Capt Bobby Woodard 6499 Gasparilla Rd • Placida, FL 33946 www.Captain-Bobby.com 14 POLK & SUMPTER
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Support Your Local Businesses!
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Boat/Personal Watercraft/Canoe/Kayak/SUP Dealers Manufacturers/ New & Consignment Sales Hoppy’s Marine 31499 Hwy 27 • Haines City, FL 33844 863-439-7616 www.HoppysMarine.com We Sell & Service Most Major Brand Boats Tracker - Minn•Kota - Nitro - Power Pole Sun Tracker
S Im
Okeechobee Adventures Guide Sevice Garrard’s Bait and Tackle Capt. Eddie Perry www.OkeechobeeAdventures.com Facebook.com/OkeechobeeAdventures 863-763-7722
Gary’s Boating Center 15520 Hwy 27 • Lake Wales, FL 33859 863-638-0537 • 863-638-0527 Fax www.GarysBoating.com
Action Watersports 402 Progress Rd. • Auburndale, FL 33823 863-967-4148 www.ActionWaterSports.net
Carolina Skiff - Mercury & Yamaha Outboards Hewitt Boat Lifts & Dock Systems
Custom Fishing Kayaks, Stand Up Paddleboards, Accesories & More. Over 13,000 Sq Ft Packed With All The Gear For Your Paddlesport Adventure!
Marine Supply of Winter Haven 717 6th Street SW • 1491 3rd SW (Sales) Winter Haven, FL 33880 863-293-1156 www.MarineSupplyBoats.com
Erwine’s Marine 250 S. Scenic Hwy • Frostproof, FL 33843 863-635-4492 www.ErwinesMarine.com
Fully Certified Yamaha, Mercury & Evinrude Technicians. Boat Acc. & Engine Parts - High & Dry Storage - Boat Detailing - Gasoline At Our Docks. Full Line of Yeti Products, Pontoon Rentals
Yamaha - Evinrude - Mercury - MerCruiser Volvo Penta - Avalon - Magic Tilt - Exide Technologies Power-Pole - Teleflex Marine Starcraft Marine - Engel Coolers & Tumblers
Old Salt Marine 1916 Us Hwy 98 North • Lakeland, FL 33805 Ph: 863-802-0543 • Fax: 863-688-3954 www.OldSaltMarine.com
Pana Vista Lodge 3417 Co Rd 421 • Lake Panasoffkee, FL 33538 352-793-2061 www.panavistalodge.com
Sea Ark - Salty Boats - Stumpnocker - Polar Kraft Misty Harbor Pontoons - Sea Born Boats. Outboard Motors - Mercury - Evinrude - Yamaha - Suzuki.
Cottages - Rv Camp Ground Hook-Ups - Camping - Boat Sales & Service. JohnsonEvinrude Motors Sales & Service. Boat Rentals Pontoon Rentals - Licenses - Bait - Ice - Gas Ramp
Stumpnocker By Salty Boats 1916 Us Hwy 98 North • Lakeland, FL 33805 Ph: 863-802-0543 • Fax: 863-688-3954 See all oumodels on Stumpnockerboats.com. From Flat Bottom Models For Shallow Water Fishing To The Semi-V Series For Skinny Water Fishing, You’ll Find The Perfect Boat From Stumpnocker.™
Taylor Made Charters & Guide Service Central Florida & Great Lakes Bass Fishing
Capt. Keith Mixon Mixin’ Work With Play Fishing Charters www.mixinworkwithplay.com 321-212-8484
Waters Edge Fish Camp
Capt Dave Ochs Capt. Scott Taylor 10730 Camp Mack Rd • LakeWales, Fl USCG Licensed Captian 863-589-6295 238 Towhee Rd • Winter Haven, FL 33881 TMCGuideService.com 855-354-8433 16 POLK & SUMPTER FEBRUARY 2017 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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Guns and Archery Shops, Skeet/Trap/Clay Rifle & Pistol Shooting Clubs and Training
ers
Skeet Imperial Polk Gun Club
Gator Busters 11451 Schaefer Lane Lake Wales Fl 33898 (407)729-6686 www.gatorbusters.com
Hours: W& S 9-1pm, R- 6-10pm, Sun. 1-5pm 5 Skeet Fields - 7 Trap Fields - 60 RV Hookups Clubhouse w/AC, TV - Bathroom & Shower Kitchen Facilities - Trap & Skeet in Sunny Winter Haven Florida!
Chuck Simmons FWC Licensed Trapper
Lakeland Rifle & Pistol Club 2000 Lasso Lane • Lakeland Fl 33801 863-665-0092 lakelandgunclub.com Private and safe shooting facility with membership open to the public. COME TO OUR GUN SHOW AT THE LAKELAND CENTER SEPTEMBER 17th -18th!
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Imperial Polk Gun Club Inc. 151 Race Pit Road • Winter Haven, FL 33880 863-206-0602 www.imperialpolkgunclub.com
Polk County Trap & Skeet
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Polk County Trap & Skeet 150 Spirit Lake Rd • Winter Haven, FL 33880 863-299-4853 Hours: W&S- 9-5pm, R- 6-10pm, Sun 1-5pm Open To The Public Trap & Skeet Club
Shoot Straight
230 N Lake Parker Ave • Lakeland Fl 33801 (863)937-8021 Hours: M-S 10-9, Sun 11-7 Gunsmithing, Concealed Weapon Course, Firearms Training, Range Membership. We are the largest gun store chain and dealer in Florida, which means better selection, more choice, expert service, and your best shot at the best price!
Leadfeather Guns & Archery
410 Overlook Drive WH Fl 33884 863-875-8989 leadfeatherguns&archery.com Hours: M-R 10-7 F& S 10-8, Sun 12-6 Indoor Climate Controlled Gun & Archery Range, Training Classes, Online Store, Gunsmith Services, Grand Inventory of Firearms, Archery Equipment & Lot Of Accesories.
Tenoroc Shooting Sports & Training 3755 Tenoroc Mine Rd • Lakeland Fl 33805 863-666-2500
Spurlows Outdoor Outfitters Archery ProShop 30
Hours: MRF- 9-5, SS 8-5 Our mission is to provide you with everything necessary to safely engage in firearms training, recreational shooting, hunting and self defense shooting activities.
2009-2015 Hoyt Dealer Of The Year! FREE Set up, Tune & Range Time with Purchase of New Bow Indoor Range Bows (All Major Makes & Models) Arrows-Strings-Crossbows, Apparel-Bowfishing Accessories, Largest Selection of Arrows & Broadheads We accept all major credit cards.
Polk Sporting Clays 2000 Lasso Lane • Lakeland Fl 33801 863-698-0677 www.polksportingclays.com.
Adventures Archery Lakeland 2332 E Edgewood Drive • Lakeland, FL 33803 863-450-2914
NSCA Tournament Club Only.
Catfish Creek Sporting Clays
5000 Firetower Rd • Hanes City, FL 33844 863-439-7855 Hours: W-S 9-5, Sun 9-2 20 Fully Automated Stations, Golf Cart Rentals, Gun Rentals, Ammunition, Instructors and a Full Retail Shop, Banquet Halls, Six-bedroom Villas, Hotel Rooms, Conference Rooms, Onsite Culinary Team. Groups from 15 to 1,000.
E Wall St Frostproof Fl 33843 863-635-0240 SpurlowsOutdoorOutfitters.com
“Your Adventure Begins Here”
Alligators Unlimited Airboat Nature Tours Captain John Wathey 14400 Reese Dr. • Lake Wales, Fl 33898 airboatnaturetours.com
Our Airboats are the “Real Deal” not 20+ passenger Air-Busses! This guarantees your EVERGLADES AIRBOAT TOUR to be and powerful! COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM personal FEBRUARY 2017 POLK & SUMPTER 17
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Boat Improvement/Service Repair Center Replacement Parts Millers Fiberglass
1505 S Lake Shipp Dr •Winter Haven, Fl 33880 863-551-1551 Bobby.mfr@gmail.com www.MillersFG.com www.facebook.com/Millers-FiberglassRepair-157407427716301
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Central Florida Trolling Motor Sales & Repairs
COME CHECK OUT OUR NEW ROUNDABOUT BOATS!
A Cut Above Polish Shop
Check out our weekly specials on facebook! Factory Warranty Service for Minn-Kota Cannon Downriggers- Motor Guide
Interstate Batteries 2855 US Hwy 92 E• Lakeland Fl 33801 863-666-8787 www.InterstateBatteries.com
529 E State Rd 44 • Wildwood, FL 34785 352-303-0294 3014 TV Road • Florence, SC 29501 352-303-9877 4538 Hwy 43 • Joplin Missouri 64804 417-781-2398 www.ACutAbovePolishShop.com
Motorcycle - Cell Phone - Household Automotive - Commerical - Marine - RV General Public Welcome
Polish Semi-Trucks (Including Small Fleets!) - Boats Rv’s - Buses - Motorcycles & Vehicles.
Chilton Signs 28597 hwy 27 • Dundee Fl 33838 863-438-0880 3237 US Hwy 98 S Lakeland, Fl 33803 863-337-6272 ChiltonSigns.com
3780 Hwy 92 East • Lakeland, FL 33801 863-666-2248 • Fax 863-667-0213 cftm3780@yahoo.com www.CentralFloridaTrollingMotor.com
Jefford’s Airboats 1850 Hwy 92W • Winter Haven Fl 33881 863-956-3030 Jefford’s Airboats
Airboat Repair Shop
Wraps To Graphics - Boat Registration Numbers Golf Cart Names - RV Graphic Restoration.
18 POLK & SUMPTER
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Bait & Tackle Shops/Outfitters/Apparel Off The Wall Adventures & Outfitters 2055 Shepherd Rd. • Lakeland, FL 33811 863-709-9253 www.OffTheWallAdventures.com Fishing & Diving Charters
You cand find the Whirly Bait at these local stores: Basswater Tackle Shop, Panasoffkee Hardware and Pana Vista Lodge in Lake Panasoffkee. At the Angler’s Tackle Shack in Bushnell and Brookers Bait & Tackle in Leesburg. Please call: (352)443-0245 for dealer inquiries. You Can Get The Whirly Bait In Any Military & Sport Team Colors!
Bridgemasters 2131 Highway 60 E • Lake Wales, FL 33898 Phone: 863-676-1009 • Fax: 863-679-1638 www.TheBridgmaster.com
All Abu Garcia Reels In Case 15% Off All Fitzgerald Rods 10% Off Carrot Sticks 15% Off
eneral
Phillips Bait & Tackle 3780 Hwy. 92E • Lakeland, FL 33801 863-666-2248 www.PhillipsTackle.com cftm3780@yahoo.com
Scuba Diving Classes, Spearfishing Charters, Kayak Sales & Rentals. Dye - GoPro - Costa - Reef - Naui Worldwide Yeti Coolers
Overdue Adventures FL. “Cracker” Fishing Style Family Fishing, Shore Lunches, Waterside Dining Snorkeling Trips, Scalloping Trips, Egmont Key Day Trips Capt. Daryl Brown First Mate: Joy Brown 518 Main Street • Auburndale, FL 33823 863-559-4480 FishnFinatic Charters Specializes in light tackle fishing, targeting Redfish, Snook, Trout and more.
Come Check Out Our Customer Appreciation Event March 11th 8:00am-2:00pm Live Bait: Cricket - Worms - Minnows - Shiners. Full Line Of Tackle - Tackle Boxes - Rods & Reels
Come In And Check Out Our Winter Sales Follow us on Facebook & Instagram
Stones Bait & Tackle 2049 E Edgewood Drive • Lakeland, Fl 33803 863-940-4898 Instagram: Stones Outhouse Rod & Reel Repairs - Fishing Rods - Reels Tackle - Apparel & Accesorries - Costa - Yeti Coolers - St.Croix - G-Looomis - OluKai - Abu Garcia Shimano -Power Pole - Breath Like a Fish
Big Fish Bait & Tackle 6908 US Hwy 98 North • Lakeland Fl 33809 863-815-9492 wwww.CentralFloridaAngling.com Bob Woodard-Owner Live Bait- Rod & Reel Repairs
Scalloping Charter Capt. Rick Burns Reel Burns Charters Homosassafishingguide.com 352-201-6111 Manatee Charter COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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Capt Shawn Raulerson Guide Services CaptShawnFishing.com
863-860-8502
Ron’s Tackle Box The Old Angler’s Antique Gallery 380 S. Lake Shore Way • Lake Alfred, FL 33850 863-956-4990 • Fax 863-956-2525 imareellady2@aol.com Live Bait & Tackle - Cast Nets - Sportswear Gifts & Decor Mon - Th 6AM - 6PM • Fri & Sat 6AM - 7PM
Camp Mack
14900 Camp Mack Rd • Lake Wales, Fl 33898
863-696-1108 www.campmack.com
Always Good Fishing - Airboat Nature Tours RV Camping - Trophy Bass Fishing - Cabin Rentals Liars Motel - Home Sales
Fly’Em High Charters Capt. Bobby Woodard www.Captain-Bobby.com 863-224-1418 USCG. Licensed Tarpon, Snook, Grouper
FEBRUARY 2017Trout, POLK & SUMPTER 19 Redfish, Scallop Trips
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CAM Polk/Sumter Top Picks For Best Places To Catch The Game World of Beer
2751 W Torch Lake Dr • Wildwood FL 32163 (352)633-9519 • www.worldofbeer.com 53 Beers On Draft. Over 50 Bottled Craft Beers. Our German Pretzel, WOB Dry Rubbed Wings, Artisan Sausage Board & Chimay Burger Top The Favorites’ List Come In And Try Out Our FALL PLATE & PINTS or BOTTOMLESS BOOZE BRUNCH!
Brewlands Bar & Billiards 5733 S Fl Ave Lakeland Fl 33813 863-646-2600 24 Beers on Draft. Over 50 Bottled Craft & Import Beers. Full Liquor Bar .”Hand-picked” Wine List Great Beer-Superior TablesIncredible Atmosphere-FREE Billiard Lessons (on weekends)-Darts-20 Big Screen TV’sFantastic Food! Hurricane Grill & Wings
6370 Cypress Gardens Blvd Winter Haven, FL 33884 863-324-5157 www.HurricaneWings.com Offering 14 Seafood Entrees Try Our New Havanah Cuban Sandwich. Add Your Favorite Flavor To Any Menu Item Including Our Wings! Tropical Drinks • Ice Cold Drafts & Import Beers • Local Craft Beers • Wine
Hooters
3437 S Florida Ave • Lakeland FL 33803 863-644-8461 www.hooters.com Hot Wings-Seafood-Appetizers-Fresh Salads Hearty Sandwiches-Signature Burgers-Ice Cold Beer-Specialty Drinks-Wines-Cocktails. BIGGER, BADDER, FLATTER SCREENS FOR FRONT ROW SEATS TO ALL THE GAMES!
Gator’s Dockside
5147 US-98 • Lakeland FL 33812 863-619-7619 www.gatorsdockside.com Happy Hour M-F 3-7 20% Off All Alcohol & Boneless Wings .Lunch Specials M-F 11-3 .Best Grilled Wings In Florida .First Class Sports Bar .Biggest Big Screens .Scrumptious Entrees, Sandwiches, Burgers, Wraps, Salads, Ribs, Unbelievable Desserts!
Wing House
4515 S Florida Ave • Lakeland FL 33813 863-646-0303 www.winghouse.com Monday All-You-Can-Eat Wings 5- Close . Fantasy Football Draft Parties. Bottomless Bonesless Wings Wednesdays .Open For Lunch & Dinner With A Full Service Bar, Wide Selection of Liquor Cocktails, Major Domestic,Imported & Specialty Beers, Your
House For All WWE PPV Events!
Champs Sports Grill 6645 Florida Ave S • Lakeland, FL 33813 863-647-5900 www.champstogo.com Cold Beer • Great Food • Good Times Family Fun • Best Wings In Town • Dine In or Take Out • 23 TV’S Featuring: Nascar NFL Sunday Ticket • SEC ESPN Network MLB • CBS College Sports • Big Ten Network
Beef O’ Brady’s 840 S Main St • Wildwood FL 34785 352-689-0048 www.beefobradys.com
Davenport’s Ale House
Beef O’ Brady’s
1260 Posner Blvd • Davenport, FL 33837 863-420-8000 www.davensportsalehouse.com $.69 Wings All Day Every Monday • Kids Eat FREE Every Tuesday • Hospitality Night Every Wednesday 9-close 15% Off Tab!! All Day Every Day: $2 Wells • $3 Doubles • $2.50 Landshark & Amber Bock • $3 Shock Top • Bud • Bud Light • Mich Ultra • Miller Lt • Coors Lt Drafts • $4 Stella • Goose IPA $4 Wine
NEW WINGS & THINGS- 6 Award Winning Wings Paired With A Favorite Side, Pizza & Wing Wednesdays, Lighter Side Salads, Wraps & “Bunless” Burgers, FREE Shareable Starter When You Join Team ‘O’ Brady’s!
300 Cypress Gardens Blvd Winter Haven, FL 33880 863-293-9464 www.beefobradys.com NEW WINGS & THINGS - 6 Award Winning Wings Paired With A Favorite Side, Pizza & Wing Wednesdays, Lighter Side Salads, Wraps, & “Bunless” Burgers, FREE Shareable Starter When You Join Team ‘O’Brady’s!
San Diegos Mexican Grill & Sport Bar Beef O’ Brady’s 102 W Polk St • Auburndale, FL 33823 1300 3rd St SW • Winter Haven 33880 863-968-0010 (863)268-4477 - facebook.com/House-ofwww.beefobradys.com Wings-1185199374843017/ NEW WINGS & THINGS - 6 Award Winning Draft Beer 2-4-1 All Day Everyday! Wings Paired With a Favorite Side, Pizza & House Margarita and Sangria Wing Wednesdays, Lighter Side Salads, Wraps & 2 For 1 3pm-7pm Everyday. “Bunless” Burgers, FREE Shareable Starter When Tuesday Wings $.79. You Join Team ‘O’ Brady’s! Kids Eat FREECOASTALANGLERMAG.COM Every Thursday 20 POLK & SUMPTER FEBRUARY 2017 • THEANGLERMAG.COM With A Purchase Of An Adult Meal. CAM Feb .indd 20
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Basswater Tackle Shop Custom Made Rods Capt Neal Bedford has been making rods for over 40 years and has had his Basswater Tackle Shop in the Lake Panasoffkee area for 11 years. Capt Neal can custom make your rod just about anyway you would like. This is a standard MHX Mud Hold Blank 7' Extra Heavy Froggin Rod
Capt. Neal put a Diamond Butt Wrap on this 6.6' and repainted it to order! Capt Neal can make your old rod look new again- here is a rare 1950 Green Glass Boat Rod with new Turbo guides- you are not going to see two of these! Here is a 8'9 Double Diamond Wrap 540 Herrington Blank Offshore Trolling Rod. It doesn't matter the rod, Capt. Neal will fill the order! Capt Neal even makes his own freshwater Salt Stick baits. Capt Neal does freshwater guide trips on his 20' Stratus with a 225 motor, Reel Repairs and Cleaning Service. Basswater tackle carries a variety of baits including Jethro Baits, Zoom Gambler, Big Dawg Baits and Whirly Buzz Baits. Give Capt Neal a call @ (352)303-6791. Basswater Tackle Shop is located just off I-75 at CR 470.
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You Can Find Us Here Paid Supporters of the Magazine
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Walmart Ridgewood Lake Golf Club All Star Grill China Park Chamber of Commerce Hoppy's Marine Lake Alfred Ron's Tackle Box Lake Alfred Diner Gary’s Oyster Bar & Grill Harvest Meat Market
Lake Wales Camp Mack's River Resort Grape Hammock Juniors Fish Market Bridgemaster Walmart Jack & Mary's Pizzanos Pizza Bait Store Sunoco Jay Bee’s Rest Jimmy's Gas citgo Florida’ s Natural “Grove House” Visitors Center Sky Powersports Winter Haven Orange Box Cafe Old Man Franks Oakley Trucking Walmart Winter Haven Gardens Inn Sornensen Schade Chevy Bait Store Camp Mack Rd & Banquet Center Gary's Boats Hampton Inn Pilot Somewhere Sports Bar & Rural King Grill Anglers Arsenal Beef O’ Brady’s Caribbean Bay Bait/Tackle/ Liars Lair Saloon Liars Lodge Rest. Camp Lester Marine Supply Kirks Country Store Howard Johnson Hotel Jennings Fish Camp Dairy Queen Cherry Pocket Restaurant Andy Thornals Weikert Ford Jeep Lake Wales Jeep/Dodge Idlezone Bar & Grill Leadfeather Guns & Archery Lake Wales Country Club Crazy Fish Bar & Grill Ard’s Awning, Inc. Brandi’s Barber & Beauty Tanner’s Lakeside Vinny’s Smoke-n-Grill Schacks BBQ The Port Rest Cypresswood Golf Club Harry’s Old Place Frostproof Hurricane Grill & Bar Little Dixie Mart Sorenson & Schade Chevy Chamber of Commerce RKY Seafood Market San Diego’s Mexican Grill & Little Dixie Mart Spurlow’s Outdoor Sport Bar Erwines Marine Bagwell’s Davenport Jimmy’s Barbershop Ramada Anchor Down Bait & Tackle Way Out West Frostproof Sunoco Mannino's Pizza Dicks Sporting Goods Posner Ace Hardware Center Lakeland Polk Outpost 27 Walmart Grand China Buffet Phillips Bait & Tackle Posner Park Chrysler/Jeep/ Central Fl Trolling Dodge Fantasea Marine Mas Verde Haines City Lakeland Automall Goodyear 24 POLK & SUMPTER
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The Villages Custom Apparel & Gifts Shell Softballs R Game The Villages Fishing Club Hampton Inn The Tire Choice Walmart Streetrod Productions EZ Go Golf Carts Barbershop China Wok (Traverse Trail) Sumterville Shady Brook Golf & RV Resort Citgo Mann’s Shooting Supply River Ranch Westgate River Ranch Webster The Webster Westside Flea Market Dundee R&M Bait & Tackle
Dundee Hardware & Feed Shady Cove Bar & Grill Chilton Signs Rattle & Patches Palm Bay Aquatech Marine
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FWC Photo
GULF SEASONS CHANGES FOR AMBERJACK, GRAY TRIGGER, GAG
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ith the coming of 2017, several recreational fishing season changes in Gulf waters went into effect. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) manages marine fish from the shore to 9 nautical miles in the Gulf of Mexico. • Greater Amberjack Season Open The greater amberjack season in Gulf state waters had been closed since Sept. 10. This temporary closure was put in place because NOAA Fisheries estimated the 2016 annual federal recreational quota was exceeded and the recreational harvest season in adjacent federal waters closed. The quota is the poundage of fish that can be caught each year while maintaining a sustainable fishery. Federal rules require that any harvest in excess of the quota for this species must be deducted from the next year’s quota and could result in a shortened federal season. State waters closed early in 2016 to help minimize negative impacts of a quota overage on Florida anglers and the 2017 season.
• Gray Triggerfish Season Closed The gray triggerfish recreational season will remain closed Jan. 1 through Dec. 31, 2017 in Gulf state waters in response to an announcement that the 2016 federal gray triggerfish quota was exceeded by more than 200 percent and that federal waters will be closed through Dec. 31, 2017. The state waters closure will help avoid a quota overage in 2017. The FWC will consider a limited gray triggerfish season for fall 2017 at an upcoming meeting. • Gag Grouper Season Closed Gag grouper closed for recreational harvest in most Gulf of Mexico state waters and all Gulf federal waters Jan. 1, 2017. This is an annual closure. The season will reopen June 1, 2017. State waters off Franklin, Wakulla, Jefferson and Taylor counties are open from April 1 through June 30 only and are not open during the June 1 through Dec. 31 season. Monroe County is also excluded from the June through December season because it follows Atlantic rules for gag grouper.
For more fishing on the Gulf of Mexico, go to
CAMOFFSHORE.COM
VERY EXPENSIVE FISH 00 Over 1
BEST PR OF TH IC E YEAR
By CAM Staff • Photo Courtesy of Canyon Reels
oats ality B es u Q hen you think about it, it’s not as ridiculous as it sounds. Accordinghicl e &V to the Associated Press, a sushi chain boss in Japan recently made ! a $632,000 winning bid r Sale o F for a 466-pound bluefin tuna at
W
MARINE-SPORTING GOODS, INC. Marine Sporting Goods, Inc.
386-752-2500 386-752-2500 www.mcduffiemarine.com www.mcduffiemarine.com 1866 West US 90, Lake City, FL
Fina Avai ncing lable !
I-75
LC
Hwy 90
auction. That’s the second highest amount ever paid for a bluefin, T Office E SPO Max and it equates to more than ON TH ING! Boat C N $1,356 per pound. ATV A N FI March 7, 8, 9, 10, 2013 Sale That’s a mighty pricey chunk Office Max Parking Lot, West US Hwy. 90 of fish. But when one looks at Lake City, FL the money a recreational angler When: Thursday, March 7th spends on fishing each year, thru Sunday, March 10th $1,356 per pound is really not Fina Time: Thursday - Saturday all that outrageous. The average Avai ncing lable 9 am to 6 pm angler in the United States spends ! Sunday 9 am to 4 pm about $1,261 per year on the sport. This average includes everyone Location: from the bank-bound bucketHwy. 90 West Custom Golf Car sitter to the guy who spends a Office Max Parking Lot Huge Across from Lake City Mall million clams on a sport-fishing yacht. The range of expenditure is Rebates wide; as is the per-pound return on that expenditure. Someone who fishes bait from shore might only spend a couple hundred bucks a year on gear, bait and gas to get there. If they’re good, they might bring home several pounds of good protein every time they fish. It’s a tradeoff that is economical if one disregards the lost wages from time spent watching a rod tip. On the other end of the spectrum, it would take a lot of fresh-caught es dolphin at market price to pay for a decent offshore rig and the gas to run Best Pric it. This is a scenario in which the angler likely pays a whole lot more per Of The pound than the Japanese sushi boss. Year! And then there are the catch-and-release purists. Whether its billfishing, fly fishing for trout or tournament bass fishing, those who catch Free Servicing the North Florida area for over 60 years. fish to release them are looking at a price per pound that is infinite. xtend
BOAT & ATV SALE
Quality Pre-owned Boats In Stock
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Drum Fish
H
aving recently caught my first drum fish while fishing with a friend and a guide in an estuary near the Gulf of Mexico, I wanted to find out more about the fish. The drum fish (Pogonias cromis) sometimes has a dark blue color to it and is therefore sometimes called a blue drum, although the more widely known name for this fish is black drum. Although the drum can weigh anywhere from 5 to 30 pounds, even as much as 90 pounds, the ones I caught last month were at the bottom end of the range. But they put up a good fight. I can only imagine the strength of the 113-pound world record. The fish we caught were so hungry when my guide stopped the boat, that – for the first time in my memory – the fish began biting the hook within a few seconds of my first cast. I had enough sense to keep away from their powerful jaws, which the fish use to crush oysters and other shellfish. In fact, we fished in the saltier part of the estuary near oyster beds, a favorite hangout for the drum. I didn’t hear the distinctive resonant drumming sound that gives the fish its name, a sound that is produced by the contraction of its abdominal muscles against their air bladders, but then again we were kept busy catching, reeling in, and
sometimes releasing several dozen fish. I also learned that the red drum, a cousin of the black drum, was the first species served as blackened redfish in New Orleans, a delicacy that led to the one redfish per day limit for fishermen that we have today. That limit was hard to get used to at first and has been occasiona lly increased to two redfish/ a n g l e r/d ay, but the fishing guides I’ve talked to agree that the redfish have been making a good comeback in the last few years because of the present limit. I used a small sinker to keep my baited hook on the bottom. Shrimp turned out to be irresistible to the drum and the trout. Even when my line got hooked on a rock on the bottom of the estuary, patience eventually led to a loosening of the hook with the current and some nice keepers then took the bait. Between catching the drum and a half-dozen trout and a few redfish, we were pretty worn out after four intensive hours of fishing.
MUTTON SNAPPER REGULATIONS CHANGES
Part of the pleasure of the day was sending a photo of about twenty fish that we caught up to my brother, who was shivering in a Maryland cold front that brought the first snow of the year. We spent the day talking, not about politics or world affairs, but about the fun of fishing in Florida waters. The verbal highlight of the day came from my guide, who said
during one of the many fish battles we were experiencing: “It doesn’t get any better than this.” Kevin McCarthy, the award-winning author of “South Florida Waterways” (2013 - available at amazon.com for $7), can be reached at ceyhankevin@gmail. com. For more Drum fishing in the South Florida waters, go to
GOBOATBOUND.COM
F LO R I DA T R AF F IC I N FO ALL THE TIME
Photo by Andy Blackledge
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everal mutton snapper management changes approved at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) September meeting are in effect for 2017. • Recreational, commercial, importation and sale minimum size limits will be 18 inches in all state waters. • Recreational bag limit will be five fish per person within the 10-fish snapper aggregate bag limit in all state waters. • Commercial trip limit will be five fish per person, per day or per trip from April through June in Atlantic state waters. This replaces the prior May through June commercial trip limit for all state waters. • A 500-pound commercial trip limit for the remainder of the year (July through March) in Atlantic state waters. Though mutton snapper is not overfished or undergoing overfishing, the 2015 stock assessment indicated that the population is smaller than previously estimated. Atlantic federal fishery managers recently approved measures that would make Atlantic federal regulations similar to the recent state changes. Gulf federal fishery managers are also considering making similar measures for Gulf federal waters. These changes are intended to prevent harvest from exceeding the planned federal quotas, or number of fish that can be harvested. To learn more, visit MyFWC.com/Fishing and click on “Saltwater Fishing,” “Recreational Regulations” and “Snappers.” 7 NORTH FLORIDA
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Marsh Harbour, Abaco features its share of quaint resorts, including the Abaco Beach Resort and Boat Harbour Marina the Sandpiper Inn and Cottage and Four Winds Cottages. Treasure Cay boasts the luxury Treasure Cay Beach, Marina and Golf Resort, a highend spot frequented by celebrities. Out on the flats, the water is still, a perfect mirror reflecting the cloudy sky. It is a gorgeous day to bonefish. Albury maneuvers through the flats like only a native could. He swerves through tightly packed mangroves at breakneck speeds until we reach the spot. At that moment, he cuts the engine and begins poling the boat. I sit at the bow, rod in hand with shrimp for bait. Albury surveys the waters and points out a bonefish at my two-o’clock. I cast my line but miss. “Throw it out again,” Albury says. I cast again and reel it in just enough. Suddenly, a splash on the surface and a tight line tell me the fish has the bait. We fight for a moment until I reel him to the edge of the boat. Albury grabs him and turns him on his back sending the fish into a catatonic state. There is excitement onboard. As we surveyed for another catch, I explained to Albury that my father is a bonefish guide in Crooked Island. “I love fishing,” I say to him. “You know if you love fishing once you hook a fish,” Albury says. “If that doesn’t excite you, nothing will.” Interested fishermen can reach Jody at jodysbonefishing.com.
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e set out on a small boat shortly after 8 a.m. on a warm Wednesday morning. For Jody Albury, this is just another day of bonefishing in Abaco, Bahamas. He’s been a professional guide for 10 years, but an avid fisherman since he was a boy. Jody, a quiet yet jovial Abaconian, has serviced fishing enthusiast from the around the world. He quit his day job to make a living doing what he loves, bonefishing. Abaco, one of the 700 islands of The Bahamas, is regarded as one of the world’s premier destinations for bonefishing. Thousands of anglers descend on the Abacos during the winter months in search of the elusive gray ghost. The island and its cays are in the northeast Bahamas 91 miles northeast of Nassau, Bahamas, a 20-minute plane ride, and 120 miles from Miami or an hour plane ride with flights from American Eagle and Silver Airways, to name a few. The Abacos are made up of nearly a dozen cays. Unlike most other islands in The Bahamas, visitors can take a ferry to the various cays including Hope Town, Green Turtle Cay and Great Guana Cay. Some rent yachts or other boats and sail the cays themselves. My first stop in Abaco was Hope Town with its scenic beaches and historic candy striped lighthouse. Hope Town features a small community where most everyone moves around by golf cart or bicycle. The island is quiet yet filled with life, hotels, small properties and bed and breakfasts. The architecture features colonial design, a lingering tradition from the Loyalists who settled in the Abacos centuries ago. Hope Town fuses rustic charm with modern advances. It’s easy to sit on a hammock under two palm trees and watch Netflix.
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By Paul Lebowitz
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n nearly 20 years of kayak fishing, I’ve seen the boats radically change. These days they are purpose-built for angling, and much more stable and forgiving. On the other hand, the thinking on what makes a good kayak rod has scarcely evolved. There’s been little need. For most applications, off-the-shelf gear made for the general fishing market works fine. A standard bass or flats quiver will suit you well whether you’re fishing from a ’yak, a powerboat or the shore, although the adjustable butt of Manley Rods’ offerings is a nice feature. It’s only when you get to big game that the need for specialized kayak sticks is magnified. Let’s cover the big exception: the rod tip. When landing a fish from a kayak, you’d do well to have some glass for shock absorption. High-sticking is almost inevitable. Most big game kayak anglers fight their fish while sitting. An intermediate length butt is an advantage, something on the order of 12 to 13 inches, about 2 to 4 inches shorter than normal. That’s just right for tucking into your belly while seated. A strong backbone is a plus for easier fish management, particularly when the battle is in its closing stages. Rod length is a matter of preference. It’s nice to have enough reach to get the tip around the bow, but it isn’t strictly necessary. If you’re hooked up and you point your rod tip at the bow, the fish will pull the kayak around to face it.
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water, but they will still have an eye on what’s going on, as a prey in their stomach is still necessary to fuel them. What I like to do is fish slowly, twitching suspending baits once or twice between long pauses. And sometimes these pauses are truly long pauses. I’ve found that’s one thing most people have a hard time doing. Most are unable to pass the two or three second mark without feeling the need to twitch their bait again. When I’m on a spot that’s worth it, or if I catch a By Patrick Sebile glimpse of a nice fish, I will hold my suspending Stick Shadd still for up to 30 seconds. It might feel like an eternity; it might feel worthless, but some of my best inshore catches came on such long, 15- to 30-second pauses. I keep the rod tip down close to the water, and I don’t rely on feeling a bite. I leave a little slack in my line, no more than 6 or 8 inches, and watch the line very closely. Most of the time the bite is just a tiny tap that is hard to feel but very easy to see on the line. If the line moves just an inch or two, that’s it. Set the hook without delay. You might be surprised at the trophy fish you’ll catch with such minimal action. Another technique that produces well for me on cold water is simply to cast and retrieve my suspending twitch bait super slowly. I sometimes retrieve it so slowly that it This nice trout was caught in Vero Beach, Fla. on a suspending Stick Shadd 114 using won’t even have any side-to-side action at all. Yep, you very minimal action and long pauses. read that right. Just the lure moving through the water straight ahead and slowly is the right presentation on o matter where you are in North America, winter brings cold winds some days. In cold water it will often out-produce the and sore throats to all. And the effect is even more brutal on fish than typical action-packed movement of this type of bait. men. Immersed in the water, in an unstable environment that changes It may seem surprising, but it’s efficient. In both cases, a suspending bait quickly, they have no choice but to exist the best they can where they are. is key, as well as the patience and confidence to resist working it too quickly There’s no option for fish to go on a cruise in the Bahamas to tan their or erratically. scales in the tropical sun. And the shallow-water inhabitants feel the impact Patrick Sebile is the owner and lure designer of Sebile Innovative Fishing even more than the deep-water ones, given that the skinny depth they live (www.sebile.com). in can drop in temperature sharply. Their behavior can turn sluggish, but For more tips on cold water fishing, go to they still need to feed. It is therefore crucial to adjust the lure’s action to their temperature-driven mood. Airline_Ad_CoastalAngler_8-1-14_Layout 1 8/1/14 1:14 PM Page 1 Seatrout and redfish will dive into grass to limit their exposure to colder
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By Brandon Tourigny Brandon Tourigny with an Everglades bass caught on a Lefty’s Deceiver.
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f all the different methods of fishing, fly fishing has a reputation for being one of the more overpriced methods for landing fish. With all of the extremely high-end rod and reel brands in the fly fishing world, it can be a little disheartening for those trying to get started. As a broke college student who has to also buy food, gas and textbooks, purchasing the newest Sage rod and Tibor reel just wasn’t in the budget for me. Since not fly fishing wasn’t an option, I had to find ways to get quality gear at a more reasonable price. Here are a few brands I personally like that have proven to be affordable and reliable pieces of equipment for me. Temple Fork Outfitters produces some fine rods for the money. With all their rods ranging from under $100 to around $450 for their most expensive rod, it’s not hard to find a rod in their line that fits your budget. A rod I highly recommend is the TFO Mangrove. This rod comes in sizes from a 4 weight all the way up to a 12 weight, costing anywhere from $250 to $300. Another thing TFO has going for them is their no-nonsense lifetime warranty. A good warranty is something a lot of fly rod makers provide, and it is an important consideration because rods break. For reels, the best deal I’ve seen are actually some of the off-brand reels found on Amazon and produced by brands like Piscifun or WetFly. The thing about fly reels is you don’t need them to cast. Until you get a fish on and need a smooth drag or to pick up line quickly, all they do is store line. If your targets are panfish, small bass or seatrout, it’s likely you will seldom even need a reel except to hold your line. On the other hand, if you expect to do battle with bonefish, tarpon or redfish, a good reel becomes very important. Although they don’t carry the prestige of the American-made reel companies, reels like the Piscifun Sword are made from 100 percent CNC machined aluminum, and based on my experience and the testimony of other fly fishermen, these reels hold up considerably well. When you also factor in that most of these reels come in under $100, it’s hard to find a reason to not at least give these reels a try. If you are a stickler for only buying American products, I would suggest taking a look at the Waterworks-Lamson Liquid and Remix which both come in at $160 or less and are both assembled in Lamson’s factory in Idaho. At the end of the day, fish don’t care how shiny or expensive your equipment is. The only thing that matters is if you can present a fly to them in a manner realistic enough for them to eat it. So, if you’ve been hit by this incurable disease called fly fishing but can’t afford the high prices, there’s no need to fear thanks to affordable and highperforming rods and reels
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UNDER THE SEA
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SHERI DAYE
peargun selection is one of the most hotly debated topics on spearfishing forums. Fortunately, there are many great brands nowadays – such as Wong, AB Biller, Riffe, Hammerhead, Cressi, SEAC, Mares, Rob Allen, Koah, Mako, JBL and more. Over the last century, spearfishing equipment has evolved from very simple muscle-powered slings and polespears, made with wood and rubber bands, to the modern-day spearguns equipped with a trigger mechanism and more exotic materials. Interestingly, slings and polespear are making a comeback—but that’s a topic for another month—so let’s concentrate on how to select a modern-day speargun. If you walk into your local dive shop, you will notice there are two main categories of band-powered spearguns: the American style, usually recognized by the wood stock, and the Eurogun, which has a tubular shaped barrel and a rear handle. The Eurogun originated in Europe where most spearfishing is freedive-only, fairly deep, and for small, easily spooked fish. Hence these spearguns have a low-profile, streamlined design and thinner shafts. If you are diving in similar conditions, the Eurogun style might be for you. On the other hand, if you want a sturdy, durable and easy-to-load gun that will handle bigger fish, you might lean toward the American/wood-style gun. This is also the style used for big powerful tuna guns, because they can be ballasted and accommodate up to six bands. There’s also a hybrid design, which incorporates the best elements of both with wood stock in the back and a carbon fiber tube in the front. Once you’ve chosen between styles, the next question is length. Most Eurogun sizes are 90 to 160 centimeters, and most American guns are between 36 and 65 inches. So, with the conversion from centimeters to inches, they have pretty much the same length range. If you are diving in low visibility or hunting in rocks like they have in California or Rhode Island, you would choose a shorter gun. If you are hunting spooky fish in clear waters like mutton snappers in Florida, you would opt for a longer gun. If you are just getting started and expect to dive in variable visibility, 130 centimeters or 50 inches would be a good medium length for an all-around reef gun.
Sheri Daye hunts with a Wong Hybrid Speargun. Photo by Joe Marino.
Here are some additional tips: 1) Join a local spearfishing club and learn from the more experienced people. Observe what equipment they use and ask for advice. 22) Shop at a dive store that caters to spearfishing. They carry more choices and have experienced personnel to help you choose. These include Austin’s in Miami; Florida Freedivers in Palm Beach; James & Josephs in San Diego, Calif.; Freedive Shop in Sacramento, Calif. and more. 3) Check out the custom-gun builders. There are some high-quality builders who will work with you directly, give you advice, and design it to your specs—such as Wong Spearguns from Hawaii or Sea Sniper from California. Most importantly, you should pick a style that suits you and the conditions you dive in. Chances are you will get hooked and add more spearguns to your arsenal in the future! Follow “Sheri Daye” & “The Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo” April 22-23, 2017 – Ft. Lauderdale - Instagram and Facebook.
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TIPS FROM A PRO
FRESHWATER THE REBIRTH OF 8- TO 10FOOT BASS RODS BRANDON LESTER
E
ver since I can remember, there has been a rule in B.A.S.S. tournaments barring the use of rods longer than 8 feet. To my knowledge, it is because Dee Thomas and other Californians were using 10-foot and longer rods for “flipping” when the technique was first invented. Evidently the powersthat-be back then didn’t like this new way of fishing, so they banned the use of long rods. At the conclusion of 2016, B.A.S.S. decided to change this rule and allow us to use any rod up to 10 feet in length. Bass fishing has evolved
they fight. The extra rod length will help keep the line tight during the fight, giving the fish less opportunity to escape. For the small wooden crankbaits, the longer rod gives control over how deep the bait dives. Hold the rod tip up, and the bait dives shallower. Stick a couple feet of the blank in the water, and it runs deeper. Add longer casting distance and you will be hitting depths never before achieved with some baits. A longer rod will also be beneficial for flipping and pitching. We all know what
tremendously in the past several years, and there is no doubt this rule change will be another big breakthrough. Will long rods become the norm in everyone’s boat? I don’t think so, but I believe these rods will have a time and place in bass fishing. I have been busy building and testing a few of these longer rods with the guys at Mud Hole Custom Tackle. We’ve made encouraging findings. The first long rod I built is a 8’6” medium power spinning rod. I wanted a rod to cast small, wooden crankbaits on light line for more distance. I also wanted this rod to act as a drop shot rod for open-water smallmouth fishing. Although I don’t see myself using this rod all the time for drop shotting, imagine a scenario where you are casting a drop shot in current and need that extra length to control the way the line drifts. Also, anyone who has ever fought a river smallmouth knows how hard
happens when we set the hook on a 12-inch bass with a 7’6” rod, well imagine what will happen when you set the hook on one with a 9-foot flipping stick. We’ll be jerking 3-pounders out of the thickest cover! When that 10-pounder bites, she might not be the one that got away anymore. There might be cases where a long flipping rod is more efficient, as well. The technique of flipping, as it was done originally, by stripping line through the guides and never using the reel, will probably come back to light because we can now use a rod long enough put a bait where it needs to go. I will be building a long flipping stick before the elite series heads to Lake Okeechobee. What better place to try it out than the land of the giants? Keep tabs on 8-foot-plus rod building by visiting www. MudHole.com, and hit me up on Facebook with any questions.
Get more tips from Lester at
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FRESHWATER BOSSMAN TECHNICAL POLING SKIFFS
16,950
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Surprising Winter is the Best Planting Time
I am often asked when is the best time to plant fruiting plants. My answer is usually the same; the best time is 20 years ago or today. The second best time to plant is during the winter months. Plants are dormant, and can be easily shipped and planted with no stress on the plant because there is not a lot of maintenance once the plant or tree has been planted. Simply dig a good hole, water thoroughly
at planting, and take the rest of the winter off. Even though there are no signs of growth above ground, the root systems will have time to get adjusted to their new location and begin to initiate new root growth. There are plenty of advantages of growing your own edibles. First of all, you know what has been done over the course of the growing season from a chemical stand point. Second, the fruit just taste
better coming out of your home orchard versus buying fruit from the grocers that have little to no flavors. Thirdly, it is good for your soul and you will feel more connected to the environment and nature. Whether it is an apple tree, muscadine vine or a blueberry bush; now is the time to plant. Let’s Grow Together. Greg Ison, Ison’s Nursery and Vineyards, 800733-0324, www.isons.com
“ I had the chance to test the new Bossman TailSpotter and I must say I was very impressed. I’ve run a lot of boats in my career and this boat is as good if not better than anything I’ve driven.” Capt. Mike Hakala, Aqua Dream Lures
SKIMMER TUNNEL HULL
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ackle geeks have climbed high rungs of reel optimization for decades. Their basic game remains the same today: super-tune fishing reels by adding premium components and applying best cleaning and maintenance practices. But better materials and technology have elevated expectations of what fishing reels can be made to do. Russ Lane, who has earned six appearances in the Bassmaster Classic, took his habitual tackle tinkering to high-tech heights several seasons back. Lane today replaces standard reel parts with premium components that extend reel life and enable spools to spin at dazzling RPMs. What’s the fisherman’s takeaway after these reel transformations? The clearest advantages are longer casting distances, better control, heightened casting accuracy, and improved feel and sensitivity. Some premium reel components—strikingly colorful multi-textured reel knobs and anodized star drags and cast control caps, for example—can practically turn reels into showpieces, too. “Fishermen can’t believe what custom components can add to a reel’s capability,” said Noah Arroyo, owner of Off the Hook Reels. “And some fishermen are just as attracted to the unique colors and finishes you can bring to a reel and the rich look of premium parts.” Consider replacing standard reel parts with these upgrades: • Ceramic bearings – Ceramic bearings or ceramic hybrid bearings (the latter feature ceramic balls in a stainless steel or plastic cage) can elevate reel performance dramatically. Ceramic bearings can range up to 60 percent lighter than stainless steel bearings. They generate less heat and lower vibration levels, too, reducing friction as the spool revolves. Spool RPMs may climb dramatically, extending casting distance and improving accuracy by reducing the effort required to execute a cast. They also possess five times the life expectancy of stainless steel bearings. The one downside is that they produce a very audible hum, a turn-off to some anglers. HawgTech promotes its ABEC-7 hybrid bearings in nylon cages as allowing “a more free spinning bearing that also runs quieter.” • Carbon Fiber Reel Handles – Lightweight carbon fiber reel arms are
the most common reel upgrade. The difference in weight and sensitivity from conventional reel handles is discernible. They also give a sleek, skeletal look to the reel. • Winn Reel Knobs – Reel knobs made from Winn’s patented WinnDry polymer deliver the same all-weather “tacky” feel and security that Winn grips bring to fishing rods. “The Winn knobs available from HawgTech are so good, your grip never slips even when hands are wet or coated with fish slime,” said Arroyo. Two of Lew’s Best of Show awards at ICAST 2016 featured fishing reels with Winn reel knobs. HawgTech offers these knobs in several bold colors. • Anodized Aluminum Star Drags, Cast Control Caps – Colorful anodized aluminum can give a reel an “auto show” glow. You can go with matching or complementary color options for star drag controls, cast control caps and related parts. Maintenance steps: Of course, flashy parts alone won’t optimize reel performance. Make sure the internal workings of your reel are flawlessly cleaned and lubricated, too. “You have to optimize everything when you super-tune. Polish and clean ends and shafts and pinion gears,” said Arroyo. “When you do and then add your ceramic bearings and premium parts, you really end up with a great piece of machinery.”
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TAUTEN LINEWELDER Sick of having to learn and tie complex knots? The Tauten LineWelder creates a weld that is actually stronger than any knot. The device creates a “sleeve” of thermoplastic polymer around both ends of a looped line, holding the loop in place without bending or weakening the line. Knots weaken the line, and most lines’ strengths are rated with a knot, so using a Tauten LineWelder in place of tying a knot lets you get a connection that’s stronger than the advertised strength of most lines! The process is quick, easy, consistent and doesn’t require you to tie complicated knots. It’s perfect for new fishermen or veteran anglers who don’t want to bother with finicky knot tying. Just loop the line in the device, pull it taut and push the button to create a weld. This device can help fishermen who don’t want to tie complicated knots by removing the need entirely and allowing anglers to focus on the sport they love. The LineWelder works best on 10- to 12-pound-test monofilament nylon and fluorocarbon lines and 10- to 50-pound-test braided lines. Using an experimental technique, it can even join braided lines with monofilament nylon or fluorocarbon leaders to eliminate the need for a swivel. Accessories to weld a wider variety of lines are currently in development and will be available in the future. Visit tauten.com for more information and to see videos of the LineWelder in action. The Tauten customer service staff is always eager to answer any questions, so don’t hesitate to contact them.
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UR-Cut
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UR-Cut features the same legendary DEXSTEEL, super-sharp edge, and just-right flexibility that you are used to with Dexter... 1.Dip handle in boiling water for 2 minutes. 2. Dip in cold water for 1 second. 3. Grip and form handle for 10 seconds. 4. Put back in cold water for 10 seconds and your done.
DEXTER UR-CUT FILLET KNIFE Dexter UR-Cut Fillet knives are the only fillet knives that allow you to custom mold the handle to your hand. UR-Cut provides the ultimate in comfort and control and is virtually non-slip in your hand. It’s simple and takes only minutes to customize UR-Cut to fit your hand. First, grip the handle and determine your grip position, paying attention to your thumb position. Dip and completely submerge the handle in boiling water for 2 minutes. Make sure the pot is deep enough so the handle does not contact the bottom or the sides of the pot. Then dip in cold water for 1 second, grip, squeeze, and hold the handle for 10 seconds. Dip back in cold water for 10 seconds and let cool. You now have a custom fillet knife, molded to fit your hand. Just like other Dexter knives, UR-Cut features the same legendary DEXTSTEEL blade, with super-sharp edges that are easy to re-sharpen and have just-right flexibility. UR-Cut fillet knives are made in the U.S.A. and are available in 6”, 7” and 8” lengths. Available at your local and online retailer. For more information and to view all Dexter fishing knives visit dexteroutdoors.com.
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NEVER WAX AGAIN! RESTORE AND PROTECT YOUR BOAT Poli Glow does what wax can’t! As seen on Ship Shape TV
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FISH & FISHING
A DIFFERENT APPROACH MARK SOSIN
A
small sign on the corner of my attorney’s desk warns his clients to “Assume Nothing.” That caveat is just as valid on the water as it is in the practice of law. If an angler does not start catching fish within minutes of arriving at a spot, he begins to assume that his quarry must be elsewhere. The assumption, of course, is that he has chosen the right bait or lure and presented it in a natural and appealing manner to a fish that is ready to eat. A fish’s behavioral patterns, honed over eons, follow very specific guidelines with few deviations. Anything that differs from the norm instinctively alerts a fish that something may be amiss and it thinks of its own safety first. Regardless of size, a predator does not expect to be charged or attacked by its prey no matter how small the prey is in relation to the predator. That’s why a 3-inch fly made of feathers can spook a 100-pound fish. And remember that fish do not feed constantly for a variety of reasons. Most species use tidal currents, water flow, or the neck of a funnel to their advantage as they search for food. They either hold facing the current, swim against the flow, or work across it. Whenever you present a bait or lure, it should be upcurrent from where you expect the fish to be so that your offering appears to go with the flow. That tenet even applies when you are casting to a cruising fish. The more natural the presentation, the better the chance of a strike. Your quarry automatically measures energy tradeoff. The idea is to exploit each situation so they will expend the least amount of energy for the value received. That translates into the fact that they frequently refuse to chase a bait or lure very far before turning away. An ambush feeder merely wants to dart out, grab its prey and return to its lair. Bottom denizens follow a similar practice. If your offering isn’t close to the sea floor, it’s difficult to get them to swim toward the surface to get it. Successful bottom bouncing starts upcurrent and allows the bait to drag along in the productive zone. Once it sweeps above the quarry, the potential for getting a strike diminishes rapidly. Water temperature enters the energy tradeoff equation. In cold or even cool water, fish react sluggishly because the water temperature slows down their metabolism. It might even force them out of their usual lair in search of warmer water. In those situations, choose baits or lures that are easy for a fish to catch and slow down the retrieve or the trolling speed. And remember, in cooler water it takes fish longer to digest food so they feed less frequently. Those who catch fish consistently study and comprehend the basics of feeding strategy. You can be sure that the behavioral patterns of each species are not about to change. That puts the onus on you to modify your tactics until you uncover the combination that works. Before you abandon a spot because you think it doesn’t hold fish, make sure you have explored the full gamut of options. If you do make any assumptions, convince yourself that a fish is looking at your bait or lure right now. The results might surprise you.
For More Mark Sosin Visit
CAMFISHING.COM Fishing Lights Dock Lights Flounder Lights 785-621-2646
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NEW INTERLUX MICRON WA BOAT PAINT Micron WA (Water-Activated) is the newest addition to the AkzoNobel’s Interlux industry leading Micron Technology product range. It is a showcase antifouling paint that offers long-lasting, multi-seasonal protection in a water-based formulation. Micron WA combines powerful antifouling performance while reducing impact on the environment, leaving a smooth, clean hull. This paint is ideal for cruise, power and sailboats and suitable for all waters. Using a novel paint technology called Water Activated Matrix, Micron WA delivers a crisp, vibrant color and uniform appearance to provide a striking, attractive finish, while at the same time efficiently releasing the active ingredients to deliver powerful antifouling performance. More information is available at: www.yachtpaint.com/usa/diy/ products/antifouling/micron-wa.aspx
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