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By Capt. Mike Weinhofer hen I arrived in Key West more than 30 years ago, there was a sign on the fence at the airport that said “Sportfishing Capital of the World.” At the time I had no idea how special Key West was as a fishing destination. It isn’t that it’s the best fishery for any one species. The opportunities here are endless. It has a lot to do with Key West’s location and topography. Key West is a tiny island 120 miles out in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other. It has shallow waters surrounding it to hold bait and deep water near to shore. It’s a very unique ecosystem. It’s a natural migration point for many species to feed and breed. Shallow flats surround Key West and serve as a breeding ground for bait and shallow-water trophy fish. The tarpon migration is world famous. Whether you want to fly fish or bait fish for tarpon, they are always willing to entertain. The shallow flats are also home to bonefish and permit, the hardest fish in the world to catch on a fly. But while the flats are loaded with fish, it’s not just the shallow water that mesmerizes. The call of bluewater seems to ring in everyone’s ears. Just 5 miles offshore on the Atlantic side lies the shallow-water reef. The reef is home to grouper, snapper and all types of tropical fish as well as myriad baitfish. The reef is also a congregation point for bluewater fish. The small ballyhoo and other baitfish attract larger and larger fish to the shallows. It is not uncommon in the winter months to watch sailfish chase ballyhoo in less than 15 feet of water. Just outside of the reef, the water drops to about 120 feet in 500 yards, and then there is an area called “The Bar.” It’s the old coral reef from when the water table was 40 feet lower. The Bar is about 200 yards wide and holds all kinds of fish. It shadows the reef for about 20 miles to the west. The west end of the bar is a magical place, with east-bound current upwelling on the end, bait feeds on pushed-up nutrients, and where bait congregates fish follow. Now for the offshore bluewater. “Woods Wall” is named after the man that discovered it, the famous Keys fisherman Norman Woods. At
W
make even more structure. So close to shore and holding such a variety of fish, it is a bluewater angler’s dream. Amazingly enough, we have not even touched on the fishing west or the north of Key West yet. To the west lie shallow flats and a string of islands that hold bait, tarpon, permit, sharks and many more species. Then, when you get about 20 miles west of Key West there is an island atoll call the Marquesas. It is a special place. Flats fishers come from all around the world to fish this little island. Many stories have been written about epic battles with tarpon and permit and what a magical place it is at sunrise, when anglers watch shallow-water fisheries come to life. Farther to the west are 10 or so wrecks in less than 15 feet of water. Fishing around these wrecks is like fishing in an aquarium. The water is crystal clear and bait is everywhere. Whether it is barracuda, permit, cobia or sharks, the wrecks are alive with activity. Another magical place 64 miles west of Key West is the Dry Tortugas, a group of small islands surrounded by shallow water and some of the best bottom fishing in the world. The Dry Tortugas is home to Fort Jefferson, a national park and a whole other ecosystem I could spend an entire article describing. To the north of Key West lies the Gulf of Mexico, a shallow basin for the nearshore that drops to about 100 feet in depth at 40 miles. The Gulf is loaded with wrecks that hold all kinds of bottom fish. Grouper, snapper and cobia fishing is a blast, as is the jewfish and shark fishing. Never mind fishing behind the shrimp boats for blackfin tuna, bonitas, cobia and other fish. And there are the radio towers that stand tall out in 80 to 120 feet of water that hold all kinds of bottom fishing opportunities as well as kingfish, amberjacks, sharks and cobia. In short Key West is not the best fishery for any one thing, it has it all. The topography makes it like no place else in the world to fish. Its unique layout allows us to hide from prevailing winds and make even the worst winds fishable. Quite often the hardest decision is which way to turn in the morning, left or right can make all the difference. It is one of the few places you can catch tarpon in the morning, sailfish in the mid day and dolphin or tuna in the afternoon. Everything is just so close, and there are just so many choices it makes each morning a debate. After 30 years, I still enjoy all the hard choices. Capt. Weinhofer runs charters on the Compass Rose. Visit www. KeyWestFloridaFishing.com or call 305-395-3474.
the edge of the continental shelf, the top of the wall is 800 feet deep with a shear drop to deeper than 1,800 feet in a mere 100 yards. The Gulf Stream slams into this shear face and makes rips and upwellings. If that weren’t enough, there are cracks in the wall that extend inshore to 8
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Fight the blues.
If nothing makes you happier than battling a billfish, you’ll find plenty to smile about in Key West. Minutes from shore you can go toe-to-toe with behemoth blue marlin, the greatest gamefish of them all. You can chase after tuna and dolphin, too. Wahoo! fla-keys.com/keywest 1.800.527.8539 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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ON THE COVER 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 Freeport, Bahamas Yellowfin
FREE
Sushi doesn’t come any fresher than it does Outdoor 32nd Annual on the deck of the Finster when yellowfin Palm Beach Apparel International Edition Boat Show tuna are pushing bait off of Freeport in the Bahamas. This month’s Coastal Angler Magazine cover photo, courtesy of Picture Perfect Charters, is of Capt. Pete Milisci with a nice tuna that has an imminent encounter Local with a fillet knife and some soy sauce. Team Finster is an offshore tournament team based out of Fort Myers, Fla. They fish sailfish tournaments on the east coast of Florida as well as some offshore stuff on the west coast. All that sounds fun, but so does their annual spring tuna outing across the Gulf Stream from Fort Lauderdale. It’s the kind of trip most occasional anglers dream of, and these guys do it pretty much every year when the yellowfin show up. They spend the better part of a week operating out of a condo in Port Lucaya, venturing out just 10 miles from the docks each day to chase birds and catch big tuna. They load coolers with mahi, blackfin and yellowfin tuna, and even the occasional mutton snapper caught from the dock while they are cleaning the day’s catch. What more could an angler ask for? March 23-26
WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS WANTED! The Best American Hooks & Weights For Better #Fishing
Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events
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THE ANGLER MAGAZINE Lake Erie, Smallmouth Bass
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Over the last decade or so, Lake Erie, the fourth largest of the Great Lakes, has really taken off Outdoor Apparel as one of the best smallmouth bass fisheries in Edition the world. This has been widely credited to the arrival of the invasive round goby, a bottomdwelling species that has become a staple in Local the diet of bass and other game fish. Biologists have reported impressive growth rates of smallmouth bass in Lake Erie since the gobies took hold there. The long-term impact these invasive fish will have is not completely understood, but for the meantime they are propping up a great fishery. The photo on the cover of this month’s editions of The Angler Magazine is of Kayla Culp, of Ridgeway, Ontario and a chunky bronzeback she caught while drop shotting soft plastics in Lake Erie’s East Basin. She mainly fishes the Canadian side of the lake, where bass season doesn’t begin until early summer. Anglers on the U.S. side of the lake also get to experience fishing through the stages of the spawn, which typically begin with a pre-spawn push to shallower water in April and run into June when the fish retreat back to the depths. The photo was taken by her boyfriend, fishing buddy and all-around lucky dude Matt Sirianni. Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events
VOLUME 22 • ISSUE 265
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APPAREL Product Review XTRATUF KRYPTEK ANKLE DECK BOOT Introducing the Kryptek Ankle Deck Boot from XTRATUF, a beloved fishing boot brand popular amongst recreational and commercial fisherman alike. XTRATUF boots are a gear staple of every man, woman and child in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest and beyond, not only for the protective properties that have made them must-have gear for boating, sailing and fishing enthusiasts, but as a fashion and trend statement around the world. This boot is a simple, wearable way to achieve a fashion-forward look in a truly iconic boot with significant brand heritage. New for spring 2017, XTRATUF and Kryptek, camouflage design innovators, are collaborating on a new deck boot collection that combines the technology of the popular XTRATUF Performance Ankle Deck Boot with sleek Kryptek camo designs, including the Yeti and Pontus patterns (MSRP $90). It features a 1mm Neoprene XpressCool bootie that surrounds the whole foot and ankle providing all day comfort. Like all XTRATUF footwear, the Kryptek Ankle Deck Boot is 100 percent waterproof, and it includes a boatload of performance features. • XpressCool lining to keep feet cool in warmer weather • Full-rubber, lightweight silhouettes • Slip-resistant chevron outsole • Pull-on tabs for easy on and off
WWW.XTRATUFBOOTS.COM
L.L. BEAN HYBRID FISHING SHIRT With a unique combination of fabrics, excellent ventilation and built-in sun protection, L.L. Bean’s Hybrid Fishing Shirt delivers unbeatable performance. This shirt is slightly fitted to provide on-thewater functionality while looking good. A relaxed fit through the chest and sleeve as well as stretchy knit upper arms with built-in articulation allow for a full range of motion when casting. A slightly slimmer waist keeps uneccesary fabric out of the way when you’re fishing. The Hybrid Fishing Shirt features a blend of woven and knit nylon and polyester with built-in UPF 50+ sun protection. It’s breathable, and a caped back for ventilation will keep you cool and comfortable during long days on the water. Polygiene treatment prevents the growth of odor causing bacteria to keep you from smelling worse than the fish you catch. L.L. Bean has designed a performance fishing shirt that looks as good as it performs on the water. Trim for attaching zingers and forceps and streamlined pockets for gear complete the package.
WWW.LLBEAN.COM
SCALESKINZ MULTIFUNCTIONAL HEADWEAR Capsmith Inc. is the No. 1 trusted source for fishing and outdoor enthusiasts with more than 32 years of experience in the headwear industry. Scaleskinz Multifunctional Headwear can be worn many different ways, and will attract all the right attention with colorful detail and sun protection. Scaleskinz feature a seamless tubular design that can be worn in 12 different ways, including a cap, scarf, facemask, headband, neck shade or shape it to fit your needs. This exclusive product offers maximum protection against sun, wind and rain. Scaleskinz are the perfect addition to retail stores that cater to fishing enthusiasts. Available designs include Dolphin, Tarpon, Marlin, Redfish and Bass. One Size Fits Most. For wholesale Scaleskinz inquiries, contact Capsmith Inc. at 1-800-228-3889, or buy online at www.ihatehats.com.
REEF CONTOURED CUSHIONED SANDALS
Reef has become the go-to purveyor of sandals that look as good as they feel on your feet. Their new Contoured Cushioned Sandals are so comfortable you might not even take them off to go to bed. These sandals feature molded rubber sponge footbeds, so you really are wearing pillows on the soles of your feet. Synthetic-nubuck-leather uppers are stylish and durable, and they are padded with jersey lining to feel super soft against your skin. Finally, these shoes are outfitted with anatomical arch support to keep you comfortable all day long, through any adventure. What more could you expect from a company that is world-renowned for making high-quality footwear for those who enjoy life on the water. Whether you’re headed offshore or to the tiki bar, Reef’s Contoured Cushioned Sandals will keep your feet looking as good as they feel.
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APPAREL Product Review PELAGIC BATTLE GLOVES Ever look at an old salt’s hands? Fishermen are right up there with mechanics for having the most abused hands out there. Pelagic, a company that designs clothing specifically for protecting anglers from the harsh marine environment, has the perfect solution for protecting your hands while they’re doing battle. Pelagic Battle Gloves give anglers an edge when fighting monsters of the deep. These heavy-duty “Sure Grip” fishing gloves are ideal for fishing heavy mono, braid or wire lines and are Kevlar reinforced for maximum protection from line cuts, blisters, sharp fins and teeth. Made with open fingertips for maximum dexterity and finger maneuverability, they protect your hands while allowing you to do the intricate work of rigging lines and baits and tying knots. These gloves increase angler endurance, yet are versatile enough to use for fish handling, bill grabbing, fish filleting, and many other offshore purposes. With Velcro security and stamped with the Pelagic deluxe logo, Battle Gloves are a must-have for any offshore adventure.
WWW.PELAGICGEAR.COM IN GOGS WE TRUST! The Kluch Signature Gog Tee features a simulated goggle eye portrait complete with $100 bill background and Kluch lettering. Available in a variety of styles, this shirt is built of a 100 percent ringspun cotton fabric for that true comfort fit. When it comes to sport fishing, having the right bait means everything! The “In Gogs We Trust” collection was inspired by those brutal days fishing tournaments and being down a release needing another bite to edge into first. After countless attempts of creating luck, teams turn to their wells in search of the best-looking bait to catapult them onto the podium. When all of a sudden the right short starts acting up and there he is!
BODY GLOVE 3T BAREFOOT WARRIOR
Many watersports require toe dexterity, and that’s where the Body Glove’s 3T Barefoot line of water shoes shines. Whether you’re a top athlete, a beginner, or somewhere in between, 3T Barefoot shoes are the perfect footwear for everything water. It doesn’t matter if it’s Stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking or just swimming off a rocky shore, the 3T Barefoot is up to the task. A patented three-toe design allows for dexterity in the toes that need it. A minimalist, neutral-balance foot bed allows for maximum ground feel while keeping your foot protected. Body Glove’s Integrated Drainage System (IDS) lets water drain out while preventing debris from entering the shoe. It can be worn either in or out of the water. Other features of the 3T Barefoot include adjustable shocklaces, easy slipon design, hybrid use for in or out of the water, zero heel lift, and the drainage system, which cools the foot with air circulation when out of water.
WWW.BODYGLOVE.COM OLUKAI PA‘A SANDALS
WWW.KLUCH.COM A good pair of sandals is as important to life on the water as a boat, maybe more important. The Hawaiian company OluKai knows this well, which is why they make footwear designed specifically for the ocean lifestyle. At the core of OluKai’s philosophy are quality, durability, comfort and craftsmanship, which means their sandals are crafted to perform and last. OluKai’s new PA‘A sandals were designed with on-the-water action in mind. Translated, PA‘A means secure in English, and these flip-flop-style kicks provide secure footing while battling fish from the deck of a boat or while scrambling out on a jetty to cast. They are fully adjustable on both straps with molded D-rings and micro hookand-loop to ensure a snug fit so the sandals won’t fall off your feet. Water resistant synthetic straps and soft, quick-drying jersey knit lining provide comfort in and out of the water. The footbed is crafted of anatomical, compression-molded EVA midsole with a brushed ICEVA drop-in. The outsole features a non-marking, wetgrip sticky rubber base enhanced with rubber pods for durability and maximum water traction. If you’re looking for a sandal that offers all-day comfort and secure footing in any situation, PA‘A sandals are about as good as it gets.
WICKED DRY & COOL PERFORMANCE SHIRTS Hook & Tackle, designers, manufacturers and distributors of authentic performance fishing apparel since 1963, introduces the new Wicked Dry & Cool collection. Designed with a breakthrough Wicked Dry & Cool proprietary fabric that wicks moisture while keeping you cool, the shirts feature radial sleeves for expansive arm movement. The extremely light yet durable fabrication offers UPF 50+ sun protection, quick dryness and odor resistance. Tested and proven to be the coolest shirts in the market, they are now available in four designs from sizes XS-3XL. For more information, contact Stan at srudman@sportailor.com or visit the site.
WWW.HOOKANDTACKLE.COM
WWW.OLUKAI.COM
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Lake Erie’s
Big Brown Bass L
By Nick Carter ake Erie boasts some of the best smallmouth bass fishing in the world. And over the nearly 10,000 square miles of surface area on this massive lake, the Eastern Basin offers some of the best habitat for bronzebacks. The Eastern Basin is the deepest part of the lake and is separated by a ridge that runs north to south from Long Point in Ontario, Canada to Erie, Pennsylvania. Buffalo New York sits on the eastern shore at the mouth of the Niagara River. Anglers visiting Niagara Falls would be foolish not to set aside a day for fishing the irregular near-shore topography that makes the Eastern Basin such a good fishery. Biologists see incredible growth rates from smallmouth in this area, and 5- to 7-pound fish are a regular occurrence. Kayla Culp, a teacher from Ridgeway, Ontario, has spent years patterning smallies on the Canadian side of the lake. In the Canadian waters of Erie, bass season is closed in spring to protect bedding fish. This is not the case for U.S. waters, where anglers take advantage of pre-spawn migrations as early as April. When the fish move up onto sand flats and chunk rock and into the bays and major tributaries in early spring, it is a time for bumping the bottom in 15 to 20 feet of water with spoons, tube jigs or blades. It can be a grind to find fish, but anglers who set up over a school will find plenty of action and potential for giant smallmouth bass. Lakewide, bed fishing is generally frowned upon. When the Canadian season opens in late June, smallmouth are typically feeding aggressively during their post-spawn transition to deeper water. Culp
said early summer is a fun time to fish the lake. Smallies will be on the weed edges, and they are susceptible to run-and-gun tactics or trolling with fast-moving lures like jerkbaits, spinnerbaits and crankbaits. Location is everything when fish are spread out over so much water. Some enjoy drift fishing to find fish. Culp said to trust your fishfinder and cruise, looking for rock-to-sand transitions. This is especially important as fish move deeper. In summer, big smallies will hang around structure or transitions just off the bottom. The depth can go from 10 to 15 feet in early summer out to 30 feet as the water warms. This summer bite is Culp’s favorite of the year. She enjoys drop shotting soft plastics and tubes into schooled-up fish. When it’s on, 30 fish or more from 2 to 5 pounds and larger are a definite possibility. A natural approach is best in Erie’s clear waters. Dark colors like green and brown make up the majority of Culp’s soft-plastic arsenal. This makes sense. It fits the color scheme of the round goby. These little bottom dwellers invaded the lake in the mid 1990s, and smallies developed a taste for them. Biologists have estimated that gobies account for up to 75 percent of an Erie smallmouth’s diet. The goby invasion is widely credited for accelerated growth rates of smallmouth in the lake. For more bass fishing on Lake Erie, go to
CAMFRESHWATER.COM
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The Freeport Meat Run
Lorem ipsum
An Annual Trip Of A Lifetime By Nick Carter
By CAM Staff - Photos Courtesy of Picture Perfect Charters
F
or some anglers, the fishing trip of a lifetime is an annual event. Team Finster, out of Fort Myers, Fla., fishes top offshore tournaments, but one of the highlights of their fishing year is an annual spring meat trip that coincides with the arrival of big yellowfin tuna in the Bahamas. Team member Pete Milisci, who operates Picture Perfect Charters out of Fort Myers, feels it’s well worth hauling Team Captain Zac Carpenter’s 34’ SeaVee three hours across the peninsula to launch off Florida’s east coast near Fort Lauderdale. Big yellowfin move through in late April and early May, and five guys spend the better part of the week chasing birds and filling fish boxes. The trip starts with provisioning and bait. As charter captains, team members begin saving and freezing leftover bait from charter trips a month in advance because chumming is key. They prefer fishing live bait, so the livewell is loaded with pilchards and threadfins before they leave. Provisions and gear are crammed into every available hold before they set out on what should be a couple hour run in front of twin Mercury Verado 300s across the Gulf Stream to Carpenter’s condo in Port Lucaya, Freeport, Grand Bahama. The crossing always takes longer than it should. It’s difficult for a boatload of anglers to pass up fish along the way. “Last trip, we had all the fish boxes full before we even got there,” Milisci said. “We came upon a whole tree adrift with mahi all over it. They were good mahi, too, all gaffers.” It’s a good thing there’s an ice machine at the condo. Even when cleaning fish at the dock, there is opportunity to put more meat on ice. Milisci said tarpon and big mutton snapper appear to clean up the scraps. Cooked whole and fresh, those snapper are fine eating. The main event begins after checking in with customs and unloading. “The fishing is right out front. It’s within 10 miles,” Milisci said. “You lose sight of land, and you’re in ’em.” Tuna move constantly, and they move fast. Finding fish is a matter of finding birds on the radar. Huge groups of birds are typically found over bonito, so Team Finster is looking for smaller pockets of birds that are a giveaway for tuna. They never pass a frigatebird without checking it.
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When fish are found, the boat is maneuvered in front of the anticipated direction of the school’s travel. The engines drop into neutral and heavy chumming begins with a month’s worth of frozen baitfish. “The fish are on the surface. They’re coming up blasting baits, and the birds are diving on the bait they push up,” Milisci said. “Sometimes you’ll see fins coming up on your bait.” When fishing in a maelstrom of 10- to 15-pound blackfin tuna and yellowfins weighing 30 to well over 100-pounds, it’s important to fish heavy gear. There are also sharks mixed in, and they will leave nothing but a fish head at the first hint of blood in the water. Anglers must crank hard and fast with 60w and 80w Penn Internationals spooled with 200-pound-test mono and 200- to 300-pound leaders. Anglers either reel fish in from the rod holder with bent-butt rods or fight them with a belt. Tuna will eat dead bait, but the team prefers presenting pilchards and threads on a slack line until they run out of live bait. Milisci said the fish are smart enough to let a bait go if they feel the slightest amount of tension on the line, so that slack is important until a fish eats. Then it becomes a grueling race against the sharks. The reward is almost immediate when a fish hits the deck. Wasabi and soy sauce are kept on-hand, and knives go to work while the rod-man catches his breath. For more on Team Finster or to contact Zac Carpenter or Pete Milisci, see finsterfishing.com. To book an inshore trip with Milisci out of Fort Myers, go to www.pictureperfectcharters.com. For highlights from this Tuna catch, go to
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MARCH 2017
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Spawning Phase Will Play A Big Role In Conroe Bassmaster Classic
K
elly Jordon is not a weatherman. He can’t say for sure what the conditions will be when 52 of the world’s best anglers descend on Lake Conroe, an hour outside of Houston, Texas for the GEICO Bassmaster Classic presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods, March 24-26. But as a Texas native and a 22-year veteran of the Bassmaster Tournament Trail, Jordon knows bass are likely to be in some phase of the spring spawn— and he said the angler who best identifies that phase is likely to be the winner of the event. “If I was going to guess—depending on what the weather does—I’d say we’ll be toward the final quarter of the spawn,” said Jordon. “There will still be some fish on the beds, but there will also be a lot of postspawn fish.” A spawn/postspawn scenario could provide a lot of options, and it could certainly lead to some giant fish being brought to the scales at the Houston Astros’ Minute Maid Park. Jordon said the bluegill will likely be coming up to spawn, and big bass can often be found feeding around bluegill beds. Male bass are also likely to be guarding recently hatched fry, and big females that are hungry from the spawn could be roaming the shallows. Though some bass are likely to still be on the beds, Jordon said he doesn’t expect sight fishing to be a dominant technique. “I don’t think somebody can win on sight fishing alone,” he said. “You’re likely to see several giant fish caught off beds or maybe a key 5-pounder at a time when someone really needs it. But I don’t think it’s something you’ll be able to totally hang your hat on.” As for the type of structure that’s likely to be most popular, Jordon said anglers will have their pick. “The water color will depend on how much rain we get and which part of the river you’re fishing,” he said. “The water way up on the upper end could be a lot more stained than the lower end. But when you get up there, you’ll find plenty of backwater stuff, some side creeks, some marinas, some residential
areas with canals, big gigantic flats—a little bit of everything.” The lower end of the lake could appeal to dock fishing specialists. “The lower half of the lake—if not more than half—is pretty much wall-to-wall boat docks and seawalls,” Jordon said. “Whether you want to fish shallow shoreline cover or deep shoreline Bassmaster Elite Series angler and cover, there’s tons of it Classic competitor Bradley Roy caught available. You can find this giant largemouth during pre-pracseawalls that may have tice on Lake Conroe. 10 feet of water around them. “You’ll find flat banks and deep banks. It’s a really dynamic place—and since we’ll be in the spring spawning season, the person who finds not only where the fish are, but where they’re headed, is going to be the one who’s in the best position to win.” With the phases of the spawn playing a major role and Conroe’s reputation for producing big bass, there’s a good chance there will be some 30-pound sacks brought to weigh-ins. For more on last years Bassmaster Classic, go to
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FLY FISHING
WADE FISHING ESSENTIALS
W
ade fishing is one of the most rewarding ways to target shallow-water fish like bonefish or redfish. However, there is more to wade fishing than just walking on a white sand flat or beach and casting to fish. To make the wade fishing experience more enjoyable, here are a few tips to help you make longer casts, protect your feet, blend into your environment, stay safe and catch more fish! Stripping Basket There is nothing more frustrating than fishing from the beach and having your fly line wrap and tangle around your legs and feet especially after you have made a perfect cast to a school of stripers, a corbina or surf perch. The simplest way to solve this problem is to invest in a stripping basket. Made from a variety of materials and available in many styles, a stripping basket will assist you in managing your line. Removing your concern for loose line will allow you more time to concentrate on improving your casting and distance. A stripping basket is not limited to beach fishing, either. More and more anglers are also accepting the value of the stripping basket on boats. A taller free-standing cousin to the wearable basket allows you to keep your line off the deck and avoid its many potential hang-ups including boat cleats, shoe laces, coolers and the other obstructions on a boat’s deck. Wading Footwear There are hundreds of different types of practical shoes for fishing. Select a shoe with high ankle support, a firm and solid toe and stiff arch support. Since you’ll be wading in a variety of bottom conditions from soft mud, soft sand, hard sand and even reefs or oyster beds, it’s a good idea to get a shoe that has a thick sole to prevent punctures. Blend In Blend into your environment. Match your clothes to your
surroundings. If you are fishing the beach, wear neutral colors like tan, light green or even brown. When fishing the flats, a light blue shirt, and stone-colored shirts or pants are your best choice. Also don’t overlook camouflage outfits when stalking spooky fish in shallow water. There are plenty of camo patterns on today’s market, and aside from looking good, wearing camouflage allows you to blend into the environment. Don’t Get Lost One of the worst fishing nightmares is becoming lost or disoriented on the ocean, on the flats or in a marsh’s maze. A handheld GPS can prevent this terrifying situation. Also, if you find an outstanding area where the fishing is red-hot, you can mark it in your GPS and return to the exact spot whenever you choose. Most GPS units contain moon phase and tidal information, which are keys to successful saltwater fly fishing.
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B
ass anglers use lipless crankbaits in many circumstances and ways. I believe it is not used enough for reds, trout, tarpon and snook. In fact, a lipless crankbait is one of the most effective baits to catch fish in shallow water, and it’s definitively one of those I use often. And I’m not alone. When Louisiana’s famous Team Broussard was at the very top of their tournament career a few years ago, “Cajun” Phil and Capt. Kevin had many wins including the Redfish Cup and Team of the Year titles. The secret weapon they were hiding from media and competitors alike was a Flatt Shadd 50 snagless. That small, compact, lipless crankbait puts out vibrations that travel far through the water, catching the predator’s attention as if it was of a much larger bait. The quick, side-to-side motion also creates a lot of flash, adding visual attraction. When I was the Mepps spinner designer 20 years ago, I worked closely with scientists who had an understanding of the factors that attract predatory fish. The type of vibration and its volume were key. Both with inline spinners and lipless crankbaits, moving a significant amount of water is essential for creating signals that are much larger than many other types of baits. This is why baits with spinning blades and those that emit vibrations commonly catch large fish, even when the lures are small. Often, a predatory fish is first alerted to a potential meal by its lateral line, a natural radar. These small baits fool the fish into thinking it is chasing down much larger and more significant prey. How do you use a lipless crankbait best when you’re on the flats or casting close to the mangroves? If it is deep enough, you can cast and burn it or slow roll it to offer consistent action and cover lots of water as a search bait. This is the main way I use a lipless bait when targeting tarpon or large channel bass (red drum) in main inlets, estuaries and anywhere there is enough depth and preferably some current. But for the true, shallow inshore and backcountry fishing, I use them as I would a soft jerkbait rigged on a jig head. I twitch-twitch-pause and yo-yo it. The great thing with a vibrating bait is every time you pull on the rod, you can feel the bait reacting. Action can be constant when fish are aggressive, but for cold water or finicky fish, don’t hesitate to let the lure pause on the ground for a few seconds here and there. You might be surprised to find the majority of bites happen on the drop, or even when the lure is lying motionless. Fish can be so hungry for it that they swallow it in a snap, resulting more than you can imagine in hook sets deep within the fish’s mouth. If you haven’t thrown a small lipless crankbait around in the shallows, give it a try. You might be pleasantly surprised. Patrick Sebile is the owner and lure designer of Sebile Innovative Fishing (www.sebile.com).
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For tips and techniques on fishing with lipless crankbait, go to
CAMSALTWATER.COM
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2/14/17 1:45 PM
FLORIDA
Why Just By Tom Karrow
Bonefish?
“While Pursuing bonesfish, many anglers overlook the boxfish.”
A
s a bonefish researcher in the Bahamas, I often hear “bonefish” anglers saying they only cast to bonefish while fishing the flats. Somehow this statement is supposed to elevate their angling prowess, but to me, these people are really missing out on fun and great learning opportunities. While bonefish seem to dominate the species that anglers pursue, there are a host of other fascinating creatures that inhabit similar ecosystems, each utterly fantastic to catch. If you are rigged for bonefish, do not hesitate to throw at a barracuda, jack or other fish you encounter. I often carry a larger fly for predators like barracuda and to quickly attach it, I simply use the hook of my bonefish fly through the eye of the larger fly to provide me with a quick tie, which can just as easily be removed. Species like jack and barracuda both offer great sport and are usually readily available. Look for barracuda in ambush locations, over dark patches, deep holes or cuts and remember to use wire or you will lose flies, lures or bait. I often blind cast into suspect areas, and the reward often outweighs these minor efforts! Tube flies or lures commonly fool barracudas, but I have caught them on just about everything, including bonefish flies. In addition to permit, jack and barracuda, mutton snapper, triggerfish, jacks, boxfish, puffer fish, needlefish and many other potential quarry roam the flats. Most bonefish anglers overlook these fish, but in pursuing them, anglers increase their chances of bending their rod. Fights from many of these species rival or even surpass those of a bonefish, and many times these species fill the emptiness in flats void of bonefish. They can be just as finicky or more so than bonefish and make great camera fare. Many of these species tail like bonefish, cruise behind rays like bonefish, and they can be as selective as bonefish or even more so. Triggerfish, pufferfish and boxfish have tiny mouths that require tiny flies on strong hooks and
usually a slow deliberate retrieve. These fish have tough mouths with loads of teeth perfect for grazing on coral; hooks must be sharp and strong. I have many times fought triggerfish for some time only to have the fly fall from their mouth as they come to hand. An interesting fact I have learned from several elder guides I have interviewed is that triggerfish are great table fare and their skin is highly abrasive. In days gone by, the skin of triggerfish was dried and used for scrubbing floors and general cleaning in many family island communities. For more on the research I have been undertaking in the Bahamas or to contact me, visit tomkarrow.wix.com/bahamas-guide-tek. Thanks to Coastal Angler Magazine for continued support of this research along with Bonefish and Tarpon Trust, The University of the Bahamas and BFFIA.
BluewaterSFC_half_pg_Mar2017 FOR PRINT.qxp_Layout 1 1/18/17 8:06 PM Page 1
For more about Tom Karrows work, go to
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Cool Water Wading
T
he water is still cool but the fishing can be hot. Strap on your waders and head for the Indian River Lagoon. Drainage from Okeechobee has stopped since fall, the water is clear and there are signs the grass might start coming back. North of Fort Pierce inlet has already shown signs of growth. Look for areas of rock kelp growing north near the first Vero Bridge. Early spring means pompano. They will be cruising the lagoon on deep-water edges for the next month and will take a 4-inch C.A.L. jig or smaller pompano jigs. Look for pompano skipping in the water. If you scare one to the surface, there will be more. Make sure to keep your jig bumping the bottom, which will also entice redfish and trout that like a slow presentation. Use a jig of 1/8-ounce or heavier. It’ll help keep your presentation on the bottom. Cool water also means bluefish and mackerel. Both are line cutters with sharp teeth. They school up and cruise the shorelines. Both like fast presentations and hit near the top. Move the jig quickly in areas with bait. Make sure you use pliers and keep your fingers out
of their mouths. As the water warms into the mid-70s, big snook start biting. In the spring, big females head for shallow water on the shoreline of the lagoon. Instead of catching 18- to 23-inch male snook, you’ll run into some over-slot females. You’ll find snook around the mangroves during high tide and around structure like walls and docks. Look for them to go shallow when the sun is up. Look for bait and try the St. Lucie River. The South Fork is good for numbers, and 10 snook a day is not unusual. Trout have been hard to find. Look to sandy points on the east side of the lagoon in the Stuart area. Higher tides are best. There are some trout in the Vero area if you wade the west side at Wilcox Road. High outgoing is best. The Moorings area is good on the east side if you can get access. Fishing for jack and ladyfish has continued to be excellent, and 20-jack days are typical. Jacks are schooling inside the sandbar. If you get a strike, you’ll probably get two more and catch one. The lagoon and river jacks have been averaging 1 to 3 pounds. They are very aggressive. I recently caught a jack when my lure was out of the water. Here’s a trick for fishing in high wind. If you have to fish in a crosswind, there’ll be a big bow in your line, and you’ll lose touch with your lure. Keep your rod tip down an inch or two above the water. Your line will be in the water except for a few feet at the rod tip. When your line’s in the water, the wind can’t bow it. For info on the Stuart Rod & Reel Club, call 336-414-3440. For more wade fishing in the Indian River Lagoon, go to
ANGLERSLIFE.CO
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Stuart, located in Martin County, is known as the Sailfish Capital of the World. Sitting on the most biodiverse estuary in the Northern Hemisphere, and the northernmost point of the South Florida Reef, Martin County is home to 100 artificial reef systems and over 800 species of fish. Its climate, waterways and natural environment make it a mecca for fishermen and nautical explorers year-round. An array of unique shops, fine restaurants, great golf courses and quiet beaches make a day ashore fun, too. Inshore, offshore, salt water or fresh, head out for an adventure and reel in the memories.
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Amazing 13,000 Mile Journey
A
male mako shark named Hell’s Bay has broken a record, traveling more than 13,000 miles, equal to over half-way around the planet, in 600 days. It is the longest track ever in the Atlantic Ocean by a mako shark tagged by researchers in Nova Southeastern University’s (NSU) Guy Harvey Research Institute (GHRI). “We’ve had some of our tagged makos take some pretty interesting tracks over the years, but this one swims above the rest,” said Mahmood Shivji, a professor at NSU and the director of GHRI. “Having Hell’s Bay report for as long as he has is fantastic because we’re able to really get a detailed look at mako migration behavior over a good amount of time. He was like the Energizer bunny—he kept going and going and going, and luckily did not get captured like many of our other sharks.” The 600-day track of Hell’s Bay mako can be seen at: nova.edu/ sharktracking (select Project 3). Hell’s Bay was tagged in May 2015 off the coast of Ocean City, Md. In the first year, Hell’s Bay traveled north along the east coast and then returned close to the tagging site. Hell’s Bay spent 2016 hanging around the coast of Maryland and taking jaunts throughout the Atlantic traveling east of Nova Scotia to just south of Bermuda before returning to Ocean City. In 2017, it repeated a similar path closer to the coast. Hell’s Bay showed clear seasonal patterns to its movements, spending the winter and early spring far offshore, and the rest of the year on or close to the continental shelf. The closest relative to the white shark, makos are the cheetahs of the shark species. As the fastest shark species, makos can swim up to 60 mph. The tags are funded by the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation (GHOF), a not-for-profit organization that conducts scientific research and hosts educational programs aimed at conserving the marine environment. “These satellite tags allow us to follow sharks in near-real time,” said
Greg Jacoski, executive director of the GHOF. “Understanding where these animals travel and the habitat that they use is the first step to better conserving the species.” Hell’s Bay was named after Hell’s Bay Boatworks, a boat manufacturer based in Titusville, Fla. The tag was sponsored by Capt. Chris Peterson, who owns Hell’s Bay Boatworks. A new GHRI study has just reported that 22 percent of the makos that have been satellite tagged were caught or killed by commercial or recreation fishermen. Shivji indicated that worldwide, sharks are being killed off in unimaginable numbers – some estimates say between 70100 million sharks per year. Clearly, that is not a sustainable level of removal, since many shark species, including makos, reproduce at low rates. For more information about the GHOF and GHRI, visit www. guyharvey.com. To see Hell’s Bay’s journey as well as other sharks tagged by GHRI researchers, visit nova.edu/sharktracking. For more about tracking Mako Sharks, go to
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s of March 1, it’s open season in all state waters for Florida’s favorite inshore fish: snook. On the Atlantic side, recreational snook season opened Feb. 1 in Florida’s Atlantic and inland waters from the Miami-Dade/Monroe County line north, including Lake Okeechobee and the Kissimmee River. In the Atlantic, anglers may keep one snook per day that is not less than 28 or more than 32 inches total length, which is measured from the most forward point of the head with the mouth closed to the farthest tip of the tail with the tail compressed or squeezed while the fish is lying on its side. A snook permit is required to keep snook, along with a saltwater fishing license, unless the angler is exempt from the license requirements. The harvest of snook in all of Florida’s Gulf of Mexico state waters, including Everglades National Park and all of Monroe County opened March 1. The limit on the Gulf side is one fish per angler, per day that is not less than 28 or more than 33 inches total length. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) encourages anglers to use moderation when determining whether or not to take a snook home. Researchers ask anglers who harvest the fish to save their filleted carcasses and provide them to the FWC by dropping them off at a participating bait and tackle store. For a county-by-county list, go to MyFWC.com/Research and click on “Saltwater,” “Snook” under the heading “Saltwater Fish,” and “Snook Anglers Asked to Help with Research.”
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2/14/17 11:48 AM
NAVICO ELECTRONICS CONNECTED GLOBALLY International marine electronics company, Navico, is bringing global connectivity to its GoFree product suite, providing boaters, fleet managers and service technicians the ability to monitor, log, transmit and report important vessel information in real-time around the globe. This upgrade is made possible through Vodafone’s Internet of Things Technology (IoT). With Vodafone’s global network and Global IoT SIM, Navico’s GoFree Track and GoFree Vessel products will be connected across the Americas, Europe, and Asia-Pacific regions for all types of marine vessels including local boats or cargo ships traveling internationally. With the connectivity, GoFree Track, an affordable hardware system, can track critical vessel information like engine hours, battery status, oil pressure, coolant temperature, fuel consumption and more. By tracking these on-board assets, boaters can instantly access details of potential mechanical problems and share them with technicians to service the specific area in need. Vodafone’s IoT technology allows GoFree Track to monitor bilge levels and alarms letting boaters know if the vessel is taking on water and allowing them to react accordingly, as well as notifying them when there is loss of shore power, which can drain batteries and potentially damage onboard systems that are running. All data collected is transmitted back to the GoFree Vessel online module for immediate viewing, giving consumers better access and control over vessel details. GoFree Vessel allows users to play back different boating trips to share with friends or service partners. GoFree Track is offered with a variety of communication options including the Track-WiFi or Track-CellFi, which leverages Vodafone’s Global SIM to connect users to 2G or 3G networks throughout the world.
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Spring Boat Shows
Mix Boats With Seafood And Live Music
S
pring boat shows really are easy as 1- 2- 3! Current Productions is bringing their unique twist to the boat show for three major boating markets. Current Productions has been producing successful marine events for 20-plus years. They are proud to kick off spring with The Southeast US Boat Show. This major event has been anchoring the spring boating schedule for many years, and that means it has evolved and improved beyond just acres of boats on display on land and in a marina filled with boats and yachts. Current Productions now puts what they have learned into the form of a very fun and cool twist on all three of their spring events. Jimmy Hill, show producer, explained that bringing the fun to the waterfront with a big music and seafood festival onsite at the same time as the boat show is the key to their success. Separating the commerce
area and treating the fun festivals as a major feature inside the shows works to make Current Production events that much better. Jacksonville, Fla. has been home to the region’s largest event, The Southeast US Boat Show, scheduled for April 21-23, and featuring The Oyster Jam Music Festival. It has become a huge deal with thousands of folks out on the riverfront jamming out to great live music, amazing food and the best boat deals around. Central Florida has always been its own boating hot spot, so it only made sense that the Daytona and Orlando boat dealers are gearing up for their own in-water, major boating expo—the Florida Boat Show and Dock Jam, the regions biggest boating event to be held May 19-21 at Halifax Harbor Marina and Grounds. The event features everything: boating, yachting, including all the accessories, and fun. But, don’t forget the music and seafood festival in an awesome setting right on the water at the best marina around. This event quickly established itself as the marine industries’ favorite for Central Florida and is expected to grow with more dealers and the bigger focus on the regions amazing seafood. It’s a must attend event for anyone in the area. The third event is the one that has everyone talking in the Panhandle this year—The Florida Panhandle Boat Show to be hosted at the City Marina in downtown Panama City this June 16-18. Locals know that this is the perfect weekend to catch the bulk of the boating community as they gather to enjoy the beautiful emerald waters of this part of Florida. The festival is live on the pier at the City Marina downtown. The boating industry is excited to bring the best deals to the best venue for the best show in the Panhandle. Activities and fun will center around the water and include great music on stage and the area’s best seafood vendors. The kids will enjoy the pier-side fishing experience, and there are seminars for the whole crew. For more information on all of these awesome events, visit currentproductions.us. For more about these great events, go to
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NORTH FLORIDA
Remembering
Jose Wejebe
By Capt. Cliff Lumpkin
F
riends, family and fellow anglers gathered the last weekend of January to remember the life and legacy of fishing legend Jose Wejebe who tragically lost his life in a plane crash in April 2012. Jose was the host of the extremely popular TV fishing show, “The Spanish Fly,” which highlighted the great fishing and areas of south Florida and the Florida Keys. Jose was surely known for his fishing prowess, but he was equally known for giving back to the community through charity organizations like Make a Wish Foundation, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, and the Red Bone Catch a Cure for Cystic Fibrosis, to name a few. It was in memory of this generosity that the Spanish Fly Memorial Foundation was formed to continue this important work. The Spanish Fly Memorial Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)3 charitable organization and honors Jose’s legacy by making fishing dreams come true for those who face life-impacting challenges. The Foundation not only provides
a once-in-a-lifetime fishing experience, but also exposes participants to the ecology that Jose cared so much about. To highlight these efforts, the Spanish Fly Memorial Foundation organized the annual #FishforJose event. This three-day event encourages the local community to take time to do something new by sharing a fishing experience with a friend or offering trade tips and techniques— anything that will help continue to spread Jose Wejebe’s mission of giving back. The event kicked off with a welcome party at the Square Grouper’s upstairs bar My New Joint in Cudjoe Key. Guests were greeted at the door by another Florida fishing icon and foundation board member Capt. Jim Sharpe. The evening was filled with great food and drinks, a silent auction and raffles and provided the opportunity for guests to share stories and memories of Jose. In attendance at the event were some of the wounded and injured veterans that have benefited from the hard work of the foundation. Day two was dinner at Jose’s with the Spanish Fly family. The invite-only dinner featured Cuban food, music provided by local musicians Terry Cassidy and the Key Lime Band and guest speakers like legendary guides and mentors Stu Apte, Steve Huff, dear friend Carter Andrews and daughter Krissy Wejebe. Day three encouraged participants to take the day to fish for Jose, post their stories on social media using #FishforJose and meet at the Saltwater Angler for an open bar, silent auctions and guest speakers from the fishing industry. The weekend was a huge success. Cliff Lumpkin is the co-publisher of the Florida Keys edition of Coastal Angler Magazine. To learn more about Jose’s passion and spirit, visit the tribute to Jose Youtube video at this link https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=zYPuTAQduMQ. To find out more about the organization or how you can help, visit the foundation’s website at www.josewejebefoundation.org. To learn more about Jose’s passion and spirit, watch a tribute here
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Gaining Confidence In A New Lure Is Key
By Michael Okruhlik • Photo Courtesy of My Coast Outdoors
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aining confidence in a new lure is key to having success fishing with it. Whether it is new to the market or just new to you, without confidence you might not tie it on or keep it on for long. Many times anglers tie on a new lure prior to the trip anticipating instant success only to be heartbroken when the fish didn’t show the same enthusiasm. Other times, we tie on the new lure when nothing else is working expecting a miracle. In reality, fish might not have been caught during these two scenarios simply because they were not there or they were not feeding. This could leave us with a bad impression of the product and cause us to toss it in the bottom of the tackle bag, where it will lie in darkness. Many years ago I bought a very popular slow-sinking lure that
everyone raved about. I could not catch a fish on it if my life depended on it. Looking back, I fell into the two scenarios above and never gave it a fair shake, but that’s a story for another article. The same was true for topwaters in salt water. I had caught many bass on them, but I would only tie one on when I wasn’t catching anything in the salt. Then I decided that I was going to catch a speckled trout on a topwater plug or I was not going to catch one at all. To build my confidence and perfect my technique, I decided to only carry topwaters on my trips. I remember the day I gained that confidence. On a trip to Lake Calcasieu, La. with three friends, my persistence paid off. It was not a productive day overall, but it was a great day for me. I caught 3 ½-, 5-, and 6-pound trout plus a keeper redfish. Every time I would hook a fish, a few of my buddies would tie on a topwater, fish it for a while, and then switch back to a soft plastic. Between the three of them, they landed one red. Had I not kept the topwater on all day, I think it is safe to say I would not have had a productive day, but most of all, I still would not have gained confidence in the lure. I have found that when I decide to try a new lure, I make sure to give it a full and fair trial. I like to fish it through different scenarios and conditions to see where it might stand out from the rest of my tackle. While doing this, I like to fish with others and measure my production against theirs. I am not one to switch as soon as my buddy catches a fish, or three. I prefer to keep plugging away, trying to make them eat what I am offering. That is how I break in a new lure. Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Controlled Descent Lures and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com. For more about the lure that Okruhlik gained confidence with, go to
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Feathering a Baitcaster To Cast Farther By Tobin Strickland • Photo courtesy of Troutsupport.com
T
he final step to casting farther is learning to “feather” the reel spool. Feathering the reel spool edge or the line on the spool is accomplished by using the thumb to ever so slightly brush the spool edge during the initial one-third of the cast. With the increased power being loaded into the cast now, you have to control the spool speed during at the beginning of the cast until downrange velocity is a little more constant. This takes practice, practice, practice. Start by not fully removing your thumb from the spool during a cast. Instead of fully removing the thumb off the spool at the beginning of the cast, just leave the thumb to barely brush the line or the spool edge as the line leaves the spool. I find feathering is more consistently accomplished on the edge of the spool. As you practice, your touch will be become lighter and more precise. You’ll begin to feel the point where the spool is running smoothly, and at that point in the cast you can completely remove the thumb from the spool and let the reel do all the work. Here on the flats, we’re using the Team Lews Lite and ProG to consistently make very long casts working structure such as potholes and edges of grass and oyster. Many times catching fish at the end of the cast and adding fish that weren’t reachable prior to using these tools Tobin Strickland (aka TroutSupport.com) is a Lew’s Field Staff member.
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Attention Advertising Sales Reps Have you ever wondered what it would be like to own the media company that you were selling advertising for? Ever considered how different your life would be if you didn’t have to hand over the bulk of your sales revenue to your employer? Have you ever thought about how much easier your sales job could be if you didn’t have to beg your sales manager for every little extra thing that you wanted to give your customer? Ever wondered what it would be like to control your own time? You don’t have to wonder anymore. Coastal Angler and its freshwater component The Angler Magazine are offering magazine franchises throughout the continental U.S. and abroad. Now, you can be the publisher and completely control the advertising department of your magazine. After nine years of franchising this magazine and with 42 current locations, we can say with confidence that these home-based magazine locations can be opened in nearly any location with a minimum population base of 500,000 and an active angling community. We have also identified our ideal candidate as being someone with previous media sales experience. Male or female, success in this endeavor is gauged more on advertising sales than fishing prowess.
Michigan Offers $1 Mil To Stop Asian Carp
If you are a current or former media advertising sales rep, you owe it to yourself to check out our franchise opportunities. For more information, call 888-800-9794 or email info@ coastalanglermagazine.com.
Photo by Jason Jenkins
T
he Michigan Department of Natural Resources has put out a global call to the public, offering $1 million for the best proposal to stop invasive Asian carp from reaching the Great Lakes. These carp are the ones everyone knows from videos of big fish jumping in the air when startled by passing boats. They are fast-growing filter feeders that can reach weights up to 100 pounds, and they are highly prolific, producing as many as a million eggs. They have the potential to disrupt entire ecosystems, and have been called an immediate and grave biological threat to the Great Lakes. Currently, silver and bighead carp are backed up in Chicago waterways just 10 miles from Lake Michigan at three electric barriers. Despite these barriers and rotenone treatments, which kill all fish species in an area, environmental DNA testing suggests that some silver and bighead carp have made it past the barriers toward Lake Michigan. Researchers predict bighead and silver carp pose a significant threat to disrupt the food chain that supports the native fish of the Great Lakes, such as walleye, yellow perch and lake whitefish. Such a disruption may result in diminished recreational and commercial fishing opportunities. The Associated Press reports that the federal government recently approved $42 million to prevent these carp from reaching the Great Lakes. If you are the one with the million-dollar idea that will stop the scourge, submit proposals at www.michigan.gov.
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Media Sales Representatives wanted immediately for fishing magazine franchisee opportunity. Must have 2 to 5 years media sales experience. Dependable transporation, a love of the outdoors and a good solid work ethic. Type A’s welcome.
For Information Contact Editor in Chief Ben Martin at 888-800-7974 or email at camads@coastalanglermagazine.com
2/14/17 5:02 PM
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
352-598-4219
MaryF@CoastalAnglerMagazine.Com
If you have a suggestion for a distribution location for Coastal Angler Magazine, please let me know. You can view all 39 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 2 Photo Of The Month Contest Winner Page 6 Tournament & Events Page 8 John Lietz Memorial Tournament Page 9 Bass Assasins of Polk County
Page 11 Lakeland Jr. Bassmasters Walden Shores Tournament Results Page 13 Marine Supply 2017 Spring Fishing Event 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
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Best Fishing Days 3/6-7 MORNING 3/15 EVENING GOOD FISHING DAYS: 3/10-11 MORNING 3/16 EVENING 3/12 EVENING 3/22-26 MORNING
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
2/13/2017 9:46:48 PM
INDIAN RIVER LAGOON FISHING FORECAST Can you believe it? Spring is here, and so is another season of opportunities to catch fish along Florida’s Space Coast. During the month of March, anglers will have a wide variety of game fish to choose from. During the early morning and mid morning hours, angers will want to fish along the flats. Throughout this area, fish such as trout or redfish will be in search of an easy meal. One of the best ways to attract one of these fish into biting is to use a noisy surface or sub surface lure. One of my favorite lures is Rapala’s X-RAP Saltwater Sub Walk (07). This lure is built to cast to a targeted area and still catch fish. It has a side to side swimming action just below the surface of the water. Also, it is slow sinking which allows anglers to fish the lure longer in a targeted area. One of the best ways to use this lure is when it is attached to a 7’ medium action spinning reel combo equipped with 20 pound test braided line and 15 pound test mono leader. Anglers will find that using this lure during calm conditions will best when fishing in 4 feet of water or less. During this time of year many of our trout can measure up to 20” and reds can measure above 2 POLK & SUMPTER
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KISSIMMEE CHAIN FISHING FORECAST
the legal slot size limit of 18 to 27”. Also, anglers can experience some of the best explosive top water action in our region near the port. One fish that can do this is the jack Crevalle (Caranx hippos). Jacks typically feed on small bait fish at the surface of the water. A sure fire way to catch one of these fish is to use a noisy top water that has plenty of action such as Rapala’s Saltwater Skitter Walk. Attaching this bait to a medium action spinning reel combo equipped with 50 pound test braided line and 30 pound test mono leader will be a great way to bring one of these fish to the boat. If you are in search of one of the best tasting fish that could ever come out of the frying pan than look no further than the sheepshead. Small jig heads tipped with shrimp or cut clams are a great way to get one of these fish to bite. You can typically find these fish feeding around bridge pilings, old boat docks, or other structure that is covered in barnacles. Anglers will find that having a little patience and fishing their baits as close to structure will increase their chances of catching one. Most of these fish should weigh two to three pounds. According to the FWC, sheepsheads have a minimum size limit of 12 inches and a daily bag limit of 15 per person.
MARCH 2017
Bass fishing at this time in the Kissimmee Chain should reach its peak by March or April. Large bass over 8lbs. will be moving in by then. Unstable weather patterns so far this year have made it very difficult for bass anglers to zero in on these trophy class bass. The Kissimmee River past the second lock is producing some nice bass in the 2-7lb. range. A Carolina rigged Senko with a 1-oz. weight is your Submitted By: Capt. Keith Mixon best bet. In the rest of the chain you Mixin' Work With Play Fishing Charters can find many good-sized bass in www.mixinworkwithplay.com scattered pads. Best baits: Weight321-212-8484
less Senkos, Top Water Jerk baits. Specks: Average-sized specks are readily available in the lily pads in 4-5’ of water. A 1/16oz. jig tipped with a minnow or a grub is best at this time. Lake Rosalie has been on fire with big slabs 13-17” in length. But if you fish this lake, stay in 14’ of water with a slip and rig set at 6-7’ for best results. Submitted By: Capt Dave Ochs Waters Edge Fish Camp 10730 Camp Mack Rd LakeWales, Fl 863-589-6295
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
2/13/2017 9:46:48 PM
aits.
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LAKE ALFRED / AUBURNDALE / WINTER HAVEN FISHING FORECAST It’s **BASS SPAWNING SEASON**. Bass fishing in Polk County is at the top of its game right NOW!! The South and North Winter Haven Chains and Lake Alfred are offering the BEST fishing at this time. In the photo below . . MonMonte Goodman te Goodman of “Central FL Bucket Mouths” is proudly displaying two nice Bass caught right here on Lake Alfred. If you’re looking for an excellent guide service here in Polk County, Monte is the man to call (863) 661-7226. We’re seeing many Bass in the 7-11 lb range and a lot of them are being caught using The Bass Assassin Boss Shiner Swim Baits in assorted colors. You can flip them with a jig head or work them well using a weighted swim bait hook . . whatever you feel most comfortable with. For another bait that “does the trick” we continue to recommend a proven favorite - the Booyah ½ oz. One Knocker in Royalty Color. Reports on limits and nice size are still coming in on Spec fishing in our area. Blue Gill and Shell Crackers are also starting to come around. 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 upto-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 19th season of Ron’s Tackle Box Weekly Bass Tournaments will be starting up again on April 6, 2017. Weekly registration is $30.00 per boat (1 or 2 man) and the tournaments run from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM each Thursday through the end of October. Call for additional information. All around great fun!! . . Plan to join us!! 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
PANA VISTA LODGE FISHING REPORT
February was your typical great bass month and a pretty good spec month. Most of my regulars did well on the bass up to about 8lbs. using live bait and a few of my die-hard artificial bait fishermen did well on Plastic baits too. The specs were good at times and spotty at other times. Most of the specs were caught on minnows but the jig fishermen did well at times. March Best Bets: Bass should continue on into March while the specs will start tapering off early to mid march. If the weather stays warm like it has been I would look for some shellcracker and bluegill action around and after the full moon. The bass will continue on shiners but will also start doing better on crank baits and plastic baits. The shellcrackers will primarily bite live worms while the bluegill will do well on worms and crickets Submitted By: Jim Veal Jr. Pana Vista Lodge Lake Panasoffkee, Fl. 352-793-2061
ve Ochs Camp ales, Fl 9-6295
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TAMPA BAY FISHING REPORT The Tampa Bay bite has been great this winter and looking forward to the spring bite. The bait is plentiful at the Skyway and some markers. With the weather not getting too cold this winter the Snook were staged in their transition locations. We’re fishing around the mouth of the river and docks with good tidal movement and structure using white bait. Redfish schools are starting to show up in little pods throughout the bay. With spring coming up bigger schools will start showing up on the flats. Live shrimp has been the bait of choice. The Trout bite has been on and off this season with nice slots up to 20”. Not many Gator Trout have been reported this season. Don’t miss out on the spring bite, I have a feeling it’s going to be a feeding frenzy. Submitted By: Capt. Shawn Raulerson captshawnfishing.com 863-860-8502
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SOME SPRING ANGLING ACTION
St. Petersburg Tides - March 2017 HIGH
DATE AM
ft
LOW PM
ft
AM
ft
Get Your Cobia Gear Ready
SUN PM
ft
RISE
SET
1 Wed 3:28 1.8 3:45 1.8 9:44 0.1 10:12 0.0 6:52 6:32 2 Thu 4:24 1.6 4:17 1.9 10:14 0.3 11:14 -0.1 6:51 6:33 3 Fri 5:31 1.3 4:55 2.0 10:44 0.6 12:26 11:13 1:52 5 Sun 9:37 1.0 6:40 2.0 11:37 4 Sat 7:04 1.1 5:41 2.0
6 Mon 7 Tue 8 Wed 9 Thu 10 Fri
-0.1 0.8 -0.2 1.0
7:58 2.0 3:21 -0.3 12:47 9:28 1:09 10:47 1:30 11:50
6:50 6:33 6:49 6:34 6:48 6:35 6:47 6:35
1.2 4:37 -0.4 2:57 1.2 6:46 6:36 2.0 1.3 5:38 -0.4 4:37 1.1 6:45 6:36 2.0 1.4 6:26 -0.4 5:45 0.9 6:44 6:37 2.0
1:49 1.4 7:05 -0.4 6:37 0.7 6:42 6:37
11 Sat 12:42 2.0 2:06 1.5 7:37 -0.3 7:22 0.5 6:41 6:38 12 Sun 1:28 1.9 3:21 1.6 9:05 -0.1 9:02 0.4 6:40 6:39 13 Mon 3:09 1.8 3:37 1.7 9:29 0.1 9:41 0.2 7:39 7:39 14 Tue 3:48 1.7 3:54 1.8 9:52 0.2 10:20 0.1 7:38 7:40
No doubt, we’ll have some more cool fronts in March before the ole dog days of summer set in. And,of course cooler days. But guess what??? It’s coming!!!! Some of the best angling action of the whole year. That is, in the terms of March and April angling! Barring any howling winds. Are you ready??Our resident homeboys like the trout and reds have got the serious munchies big time after this post winter weather, winter water and air temps, and lack of bait. So, you say, what’s happening now? Glad you asked. Think about it! The cold fronts and extreme cold weather are gone! So, the water will be warming up. (Right now maintaining in the high 60’s, and low 70’s.) The days will be longer! The bait fish schools will be arriving in droves! The migratory pelagic like cobia, mackerel, bluefish and kingfish are right on the heels of these massive schools of bait, and will start to cruise through town! So, what does this add up to?? Good feeding conditions and hungry fish. It’s kind of like you and me. If we were buried in a tent somewhere in the cold for awhile, just trying to stay alive because of the conditions, and now have been blessed with warming water and weather conditions, we’re going to go out, search and destroy everything in our path as far as to eat, that comes our way. Let’s face it!! We’re hungry and want a meal!! Same with these fish! Besides October and November, March and April can be the Mack daddy of
fishing! Namely the cobia. To start your search for these cobia,look and fish around the channel markers. Especially the tri-pod markers. These fish look for any kind of structure along our coast. And sometimes this structure holds bait fish and crabs, which the cobia love. Also, some of our near shore rock piles usually hold these fish. Toss a good lively pinfish under a Cajun-Thunder, or work a plastic saltwater assassin rubber eel in chartreuse around said structure. And, where you find, hook into and bring in one, more chances than not there are 2 or more hanging around to hook up with. Also, the little stingrays (pie plate to door mat size)are schooling up in the shallows running in pods from 4 to 40. Cast ahead of them! Good chances are there is a cobia or 2 following them waiting for an easy meal that the rays are kicking up with their wing dust. Get out and enjoy some of this awesome fish fighting action of the hard pulling Ling! Just don’t bring em in the boat too green. They’ll ruin stuff! C-ya on the water. Submitted By: Capt. Rick Burns Reel Burns Charters Homosassafishingguide.com 352-201-6111
15 Wed 4:28 1.6 4:15 1.9 10:14 0.4 11:01 0.1 7:37 7:40 16 Thu 5:12 1.4 4:40 2.0 10:37 0.5 11:47 0.0 7:36 7:41 17 Fri 6:03 1.3 5:10 2.0 11:01 0.7 12:39 11:25 1:41 19 Sun 8:46 1.1 6:28 1.9 11:49 18 Sat 7:08 1.2 5:45 2.0
0.0 0.9 0.0 1.0
7:35 7:41 7:34 7:42 7:32 7:42
20 Mon
7:25 1.9 2:55 0.0
7:31 7:43
21 Tue
8:42 1.8 4:11 0.0
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Your Polk & Sumter Tournament News & Community Events MARCH 1,8,15,22,29 Florida’s Natural Grove House Visitor’s Center Wednesday Events www.floridasnaturalgrovehouse.com MARCH 1-13 2017 Polk Senior Games Two Weeks Of 40 OlympicStyle Sports And Games For Men And Women 50 Years And Over. Throughout Polk County Deena Wilbur Ex Dir (863)533-0055 PolkSeniorGames@Verizon.Net MARCH 2&4 Junior Program- 50 yard range & training range 1:00 Lakeland Rifle & Pistol Club lakelandrpc@gmail.com MARCH 2,9,16,23,30 Polk County Visitor Center Hosts Seasonal Farmers Market Contact Dennis Budde (863)420-2586 MARCH 3 10th Annual Circle of Friends Chili Challenge 5:008:00pm Circle of Friends Lake Wales (863)679-2507 MARCH 4 Advanced Junior Training Program 9:30am Lakeland Rifle & Pistol Club Lakelandrpc@gmail.com MARCH 4 Lakeland Bassmaster Team Trail Tournament on the Harris Chain out of Hickory Point MARCH 4 Lakeland Jr Bassmaster Tournament on the Kissimmee Chain out of Camp Mack. Martin Bozeman (863)640-8349 MARCH 4 Anglers Team Trail Tournament on the Winter Haven Chain Ramp NA MARCH 4 Xtreme Bass Series Tournament on the Winter Haven Chain out of New Shipp Ramp Contact Mike Blocher XBSMike@ Verizon.Net MARCH 4 Lakeland Regional Health Cancer Center 3rd Annual Promise Run 7-11am Munn Park Lakeland Jodi.ridley@mylrh.org MARCH 4 Puttz, Pintz & Shotz 4-man scramble played on custom designed miniature golf course holes at nine different restaurant/bars in the greater Winter Haven area. Register at Apple Lounge. All proceeds go to Women’s Resource Center. MARCH 4-5 Winter Haven Lunker Lovers Tournament on Lake Okeechobee out of Okee-tantie MARCH 4-5 Bok Tower Gardens presents the 23rd International Carillon Festival Daily Concerts at 1:00 & 3:00 MARCH 4-5 Lakeland Gun Show The Lakeland Center $11/day Sat 9-5, Sun 10-5 (863)834-8100 MARCH 4,11,18,25 Florida’s Natural Grove House Visitor’s Center Saturday Events www.floridasnaturalgrovehouse.com MARCH 4,11,18,25 Rodeo at Westgate River Ranch 7:30-9:30 (800)608-1462 MARCH 5 All About The Bass Tournament on the Kissimmee Chain out of Camp Mack chamber@mulberrychamber.org MARCH 5 Tampa Pro Bass Tournament on the Winter Haven Chain out of G Roe Park Contact John & Wendy Taylor (727)403-6862 MARCH 5 Annual Fishing Tournament 7:00am-3:00pm Camp Mack Diana Simmons (863)425-4414 MARCH 7,14,21,28 Country Music Jam At Catfish Johnny’s Restaurant Lake Panasoffkee Door Opens at 10:30- Serve Lunch Until 12:00 $12pp (includes lunch) MARCH 10 5th Annual Youth Leadership & Scholarship Golf Tournament 11:00 Cypresswood Golf & CC (863)422-3751 MARCH 10-12 3 day Lake Wales Pickleball Classic at Kirkland Gym 9-5 each day Coachrusselle@gmail.com MARCH 11 Phillips Bait & Tackle Customer Appreciation Day 8:00-2:00 www.phillipstackle.com MARCH 11 Pistol Match 50 yard range 8:30am Lakeland Rifle & Pistol Club Lakelandrpc@gmail.com MARCH 11 Bay Area Bassmasters Tournament on the Kissimmee Chain out of Camp Mack captmoho@aol.com MARCH 11 Elite One Man Tour Tournament on the Kissimmee Chain out of Camp Mack Contact Jimmy Murphy (352)789-5351 MARCH 11 MacDill Bassmasters Tournament on the Kissimmee Chain out of Port Hatchineha 6 POLK & SUMPTER
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MARCH 11 Annual Gator Crawl 11-5 Tanners Lakeside Winter Haven (863)258-8189 MARCH 11 4th Annual Chili In The Park Cook-Off Lake Eva Park Haines City 11:30-4:30 Chiliinthepark.com MARCH 11-12 Royal Palm Bassmasters Tournament on the Kissimmee Chain out of Camp Mack www.royalpalmbassmasters. org MARCH 11-12 Great American Lakeland Gun Show Lakeland National Guard Armory $8/day Sat 9-5 Sun 10-4 MARCH 17 Coach Bonneville’s Friday Night Lights “GRIND” Football Camp Haines City High School 6:00-7:30pm MARCH 17-18 Rotary Running Series Part 2 The Quivering Quads Races in Lake Wales Starts 6pm Friday Lake Wailes Lake Path Contact Maryemma Bachelder (863)224-2509 MARCH 18 Bass Assassins of Polk County Tournament on the Butler Chain out of RD Keene Contact Alex Handley (808)7782954 MARCH 18 Xtreme Bass Series Tournament on Walk-in-Water out of the Public Ramp Contact Mike Blocher XBSMike@Verizon.Net MARCH 18 Bartow High School Jackets Tournament on the Cedar Trail Phosphate Pit Ramp Na bboswell4@yahoo.com MARCH 18 FOM Team Fl Central Div Tournament on the Kissimmee Chain out of Camp Mack Contact William_Rutkowski@ yahoo.com MARCH 18 Bartow Rotary Wild Game Dinner 6:00-9:30pm Peace Valley Enterprises Alturas Fl Contact Steve Githens or Terry Hunter (863)529 8679 MARCH 18-19 Lakeland Jr Bassmasters Draw Tournament on Lake Okeechobee out of Harney Pond lsisson@tampabay.rr.com MARCH 18-19 Lake Worth/Boynton Beach Bassmasters Tournament on Walk-in-Water Ramp NA Lake Worth B o y n t o n B e a c h B a s s m a s t e r s B a s s C l u b @ L a k e Wo r t h / BoyntonBeachBassmastersBassClub.com MARCH 18-19 Sr/Mid-Amateur Four-Ball Championship Juliette Falls- Dunnellon (352)522-0309 MARCH 19 Lakeland Jr Bassmasters Team Series on the Kissimmee Chain out of Camp Mack Contact Martin Bozeman (863)640-8349 MARCH 25 Little Manatee River Run 8-11am Masonic Park & Youth Camp Wimauma Fl dcrmx@aol.com MARCH 25 Tampa Bay Bassmasters Tournament on the Winter Haven Chain out of Lake Shipp Park MARCH 25-26 Lake Wales Po Boys Classic TBD www. lakewalespoboys.com MARCH 31 Winter Haven Relay For Life 6:00pm-12:00am Avenue A NW (352)431-5125 MARCH 31-APRIL 2 Camp Brave Heart Circle F Dude Ranch Lake Wales Sandersa@chaptershealth.org upcoming APRIL 1 Annual Indian Lake Estates Kids Fishing Derby Contact Buddy Mongiovi (863)781-0736 APRIL1-2 FJT at Country Club of Winter Haven (16-18) (863)3244579 APRIL 4-6 Super-Senior Championship Mission Inn Resort-El Campeon, Howey-in-the-Hills (352)324-3885 APRIL 8 Learn the joys of fly fishing at andy thornals the class runs from 9-3 all equipment, food and drink, t-shirt and notebook/outline are included. students will learn casting, tactics, equipment and knots.Classes are limited to eight students. Pre-register by calling (863)299-9999 or check www. andythornal.com in the fly fishing section
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Bass Assassin’s of Polk County
Lake Kissimmee Standings Jan 21, 2017 1.Matt/Mike Bedenbaugh 30.0 lbs 2. Ken Lucas/Danny Lanier 21.2 lbs 3. Trenton Gilileo/Kevin Copple 17.95 lbs 4. Levi Brown/Bryan Jones 16.95 lbs 5. Sammy Acree/David Wilson 16.4 lbs 6. James Williams 14.4 lbs 7. Derek Devane/Abigail Devane 13.45 lbs 8. Russell Kaufman/Patrick O'Campo 13.15 lbs Big Bass 11.4 lbs 9. Pedro Gutierrez/Ricardo Armenta 12.75 lbs 10. Cotton Smith/Jeff Herndon 11.7lbs 11. Vincent Maffei/Vincent Maffei Jr 11.2 lbs 12. Robbie Sanger/Kash Sanger 10.8lbs 13. Dean Haughey/Ken Sharpless 10.75 lbs 14. Danny Gasper/Tvson Dunlap 10.4 lbs 15. Jeremy Whitmer/Tracey Bray 10.0 lbs 16. Jimmy Saxson/Randy Johnson 9.55 lbs 17. Robert Smith/Tim Williams 9.4 lbs 18. Dennis Milton/Keith Brown 8.9 lbs 19. Austin Spurlock/Steve Colon 8.65 lbs 20. Matt Schlayer/Austin Chism 8.35 lbs 21. Tyler Allen/R.J.Sanger 8.05 lbs 22. Jesus Gutierrez/Marisol Gutierrez 7.93 lbs 23. Austin Williams/Ryan Boyd 5.05 lbs
Puttz, Pintz, & Shotz Saturday, March 04, 2017 11:00 AM 2803 Recker Hwy • Winter Haven, FL 33880 Apple Lounge, Caribbean Bay, Tanner’s, Old Man Frank’s,Brewhounds, Past Times Lounge, Jessie’s, Jensen’s Corner Bar, & Idle Zone. Puttz Pintz & Shotz is a golf tournament organzied as a 4 man scramble that will be played on custom designed miniature golf course holes at nine different restaurant/bars in the greater winter haven area. Cash prizes are available to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place teams with a purse of $400, $200, & $100 respectively. Themed costumes are encouraged and there will be a prize for best team and best individual. Each player will receive a free beer at each location compliments of Budweiser. Anyone who brings an unwrapped toy will also receive a free shot. All proceeds go to Women's Resource Center. Teams of four are $160 (additional processing fee on site - Tickets can also be purchased with cash at Apple Lounge). After party will be at the Apple Lounge for awards, auctions, and a fun time had by all. The participating locations are: Apple Lounge, Caribbean Bay, Tanner’s, Old Man Frank’s, Brewhounds, Past Times Lounge, Jessie’s, Jensen’s Corner Bar, & Idle Zone. Registration for team of 4 is $160. Tickets can be purchased online at Event Brite or at The Apple Lounge. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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CENTRAL FLORIDA REGION FORECAST
Hannah Starr with the first bass in the new 220 Viper on Lake Kissimmee
Walden Shores 3rd Annual Bass Fishing Tournament Results Barbara - Sammyjay Acree & team mate Rick Hurst
March brings many wonderful things to Central Florida; among my favorites are Detroit Tiger’s Spring Training and fantastic bass fishing! Both are greatly enjoyed in the near-perfect early spring weather. Can it get any better than getting up to a gorgeous sunrise on the lake, making memories catching some bass with friends and family, then off to a Spring Training ball game in the warm afternoon sunshine?! For this humble fishing guide, life doesn’t get much better than that. Once again this year, February brought more cold fronts than I honestly care for, and a nice steady weather pattern will be openly welcomed. This will be important so that the fish stabilize and are in their normal routines, eating robustly and spawning to create more healthy fish for our future anglers. One last note on February: despite the cold it did produce some of the bigger fish of the year once again. Starting off our forecast in Winter Haven, we’re going to be throwing a handful of baits. You can honestly catch quality fish on everything in the tackle box, including the kitchen sink. Name your favorite bait: crankbait, spinnerbait, lipless crankbait, popper, walk-the-dog / spook, frog, fluke, senko, lizard, craw, jig, swim jig, swim bait, etc., and it’ll catch fish in March. I’ll be fishing with clients throwing a variety of lures, and more-or-less just out playing and having fun because that’s truly what this is all about. When it’s a family
trip with the future of the sport - our younger anglers - we always have a couple dozen shiners onboard to try to prevent any lulls in the action. Moving back over to Lake Hatchineha and the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes we’ll be scaling back the lure selection slightly. Since I spend the majority of my time up tighter to grass, pads, hydrilla, and any hyacinth mats I can hopefully find, I’m utilizing frogs, swimjigs, Gambler EZ Swimmers, and your typical flipping and pitching worms and craws. Just because it is my comfort zone, I really like to try and find cleaner water. Here’s where it can get tricky to add to that mix: I’m always looking for the sunny side of the lake in the early morning. I feel that the sun gets that side active quicker than fishing in the shade this time of year. As most of the common ramps are very crowded right now, please use PROPER BOAT RAMP ETIQUETTE. This means using the pull-offs to do all of your unhooking and boat prep, not the ramp lane itself. And please practice Catch, Photograph, & Release, especially of the big fish. Good luck on the water! Capt. Scott Taylor is the officially sanctioned guide for VisitCentralFlorida.org
Congratulations to Sammy Jay Acree & Rick Hurst our 1st Place & Big Bass Winners! The Acree & Hurst Team brought in 5 fish for a total weight of 20.02lbs and their Big Bass weighed in at 10.83lbs. Nancy - Matt F - Barbara & team mate James M
Matt Faneaut & James Melvin took 2nd Place Faneauf & Melvin brought in 5 fish for 7.96lbs and Harrell & Lingan weighed 5 fish for 7.51lbs.
Nancy -Wade H & Bill L -Barbara
Wade Harrell & Bill Lingan took 3rd Place.
Submitted By: Capt. Scotty Taylor 855-354-8433 Scott@TMCGuideService.com
The new VCF 220 Viper and Mobile Command Center Nancy -Rick Hurst -Sammyjay Acree Barbara
Our Resident Longest Fish Caught Contest was won by Jerry Steen a 14 1/4" fish who received one month's FREE lot rent! A Big THANK YOU from Rickert Properties to all our Gold & Silver Sponsors for making our event fun and successful! 10 POLK & SUMPTER
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Come join the largest B.A.S.S. youth fishing club in the South East. We welcome you to join in on the action. Membership is open to anglers between 7 and 18 years of age.
Hurst
mes M
All events listed on the Tournament Trail offer Two Divisions for Teams to compete. The Jr Division For Anglers Not In High School & The High School Division For All High School Team to compete against each other for a chance to qualify to fish The B.A.S.S. Costa High School National Championship. Spring Qualifier For National The Klash on Kissimmee by LCF Concrete March 4th, Camp Mack River Resort Check in by 6am Launch at safe light about 6:30am Book your rooms ASAP as they do sell out (863)696-1108
3/11/2017 Time: 11:00 AM TO 5: PM 1006 Lake Howard Dr. SW Winter Haven, FL 33880
rbara
Phone: 863-258-8189 Register Event Description: Annual Gator Crawl - Fundraiser to help with Project Eagle (Chain of Lakes Clean up)and conservation- airboat rides, gator BBQ , gator gumbo, vendors, raffles, auction, "George the live alligator" Directions: Tanners Lakeside.. 1006 Lake Howard Dr. SW COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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Simms Shirts 2017
Enhancing Performance on the Water and Off By: Chris O’Byrne
rip stop nylon covers high wear areas while sleeves of stretch knit fabric do everything a angler needs in a cuff and coordinates with matching fabric in the torso to provide both coverage and Business Appearance, Fishing Function freedom of movement that no or 2017, the Simms company other technical garment matches. of Bozeman Montana Four pockets and two attachment is offering another long line of points provide enough storage superlative performance fishing for even pack rat/gear hog guides garments which live up to the while the Cool Control fabric keeps Simms reputation. We tried out them working. Like it’s an effective three shirts in a variety of angler fly pattern, a good luck charm and a favorite team blended in to one, guides who work in the Tricomp often become deeply attached. But what if your job requires business casual, but there is great fishing water between work and home? But what if she wants you to, “Please dress a little nicer.” when you meet her Dad? Providing the solution and filling this required slot in any angler’s closet, the Simms Westshore shirt combines their expertise in technical fabrics The Simms Stone Cold with the smart casual appearance sometimes necessary for the busiest anglers. The classic oxford front pursuits. First in our testing was a leader of with one patch pocket and button the Simms line up, the Stone Cold. down collars are assembled with The newest version of this product comfortable wicking and stretch is still one of the best fishing shirts fabric to create a stealth fishing available; with all the required shirt that gets compliments each features, it is a sure thing everyday time I wear it. The slightly shaped fishing shirt. Passing the fly fishing hem can be worn out just as neatly necessities test, The Stone Cold has as in, and the synthetic blend fabric pockets that are large enough to cut in an active shape instantly hold fly boxes and organize tools. gives the off-water angler a comfort Wearing this shirt on and off the that no cotton dress shirt can hope water, I appreciated the slightly to match in years. These shirts are just the start of shaped hem which stays tucked the 2017 Simms angler-driven gear in when necessary and avoids which we’ve gathered at The Andy the preppy scalloped look when worn untucked. UPF 30 fabric and Thornal Company. Stop in for your innovative wrist protecting cuffs own field tests. keep the damaging sun at bay, but best of all the refreshing sensation of Cool Control keeps the anglers Hunter Towery Guides In Tricomp casting into shade rather than anchoring in it. The Stone Cold comes in four colors of up to date plaid patterns for a casual look in a technical fishing garment. For the ultimate technology in a fishing shirt, Simms is carrying on with their distinctive Taimen Tricomp. Different fabrics are strategically placed together to meet different needs in different body locations. Breathable, UPF,
F
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1-Capt. Keith Mixon 321-212-8484 290 Marine Harbor Dr. • Merritt Island, FL 32953 www.MixinWorkWithPlay.com
22- Old Salt Marine 863-802-0543 1916 Us Hwy 98 •North Lakeland, FL 33805 www.OldSaltMarine.com
2-Capt. Rick Burns 352-201-6111 8975 W. Halls River Rd • Homosassa, FL 34448 www.RealBurns.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 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 5-Capt. Scott Taylor 855-354-8433 238 Towhee Rd • Winter Haven, Florida 33881 TMCGuideService.com 6-Overdue Adventures 863-559-4480 518 Main Street • Auburndale, FL 33823
www.ErwinesMarine.com
25- FantaSea 863-668-8012 3405 US Hwy 98 South • Lakeland, FL 33803 www.FantaSeaMarine.com 26- Grape Hammock 863-692-1500 1400 Grape Hammock Rd, • Lake Wales, FL 33898 www.GrapeHammock.com 27- Action Watersports 863-967-4148 402 Progress Rd • Auburndale, FL 33823 www.ActionWatersports.net
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 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
29- Hoppy’s Marine 863-439-7616 31499 Highway 27 • Haines City, FL 33844 www.HoppysMarine.com 30- Gary’s Boating Center 863-638-0537 15520 Highway 27 • Lake Wales, FL 33859 www.GarysBoating.com 31- Jimbo’s Restaurant 352-793-8150 965 CR 439 • Lake Panasoffkee, FL 33538 www.Jimbosresort.com
12-Hurricane’s Handi Mart 863-537-1300 5401 Hwy 60 E. • Bartow, FL 33830
32- Polk Tractor 863-967-0651 3450 Havendale Blvd NW • Winter Haven, FL 33881 www.PolkTractorco.com
13-Camp Mack 863-696-1108 14900 Camp Mack Rd • Lake Wales, FL 33898 www.CampMack.com
33- Spurlows 863-635-0240 30 E. Wall St. • Frostproof, FL 33843 SpurlowsOutdoorOutfitters.com
14-Bridgemasters 863-676-1009 2131 FL-60 • Lake Wales, FL 33898 www.Bridge-Masters.com
34- RYK Seafood 863-294-2300 175 Ave A NW • Winter Haven, FL 33881 www.RKYSeafood.com
15-Catfish Johnnys 863-793-2083 2396 N County Rd 470 • Lake Panasoffkee, FL 33538 www.CatfishJohnnyRestaurant.com
35- Interstate Battery 863-666-8787
16-A Cut Above Polish Shop 863-444-1078 529 East State Rd. 44 • Wildwood, FL 34785 www.ACutAbovePolishShop.com
36- Jeffords Airboats 863-956-3030
17-Phillips Bait & Tackle 863-666-2248 3780 US-92 • Lakeland, FL 33801 www.CentralFloridaTrollingMotor.com
37- Cypress Inlet 855-449-7666 2600 W Lake Eloise Dr • Winter Haven, FL 33884 www.cypressinlet.com
18-Chilton Signs 863-438-0880 28597 Hwy 27 North • Dundee, FL 33838 www.ChiltonSigns.com
38- Millers Fiberglass 863-551-1551 1505 Lake Shipp Dr, Winter Haven, FL 33880 www.facebook.com/Millers-Fiberglass-Repair-157407427716301
19-Chilton Signs 863-337-6272 3237 Hwy 98 South • Lakeland, FL 33803 www.ChiltonSigns.com
39- Big Fish Bait & Tackle 863-815-9492
20-Ron’s Tackle Box,LLC 863-956-4990 380 S. Lake Shore Way • Lake Alfred, FL 33850 www.ronstacklebox.com 21-Fly Em High Charters 863-224-1418 Capt Bobby Woodard 6499 Gasparilla Rd • Placida, FL 33946 www.Captain-Bobby.com
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2855 US Hwy 92E • Lakeland, FL 33801 www.InterstateBatteries.com 1850 Hwy 92W • Winter Haven, FL 33881
6908 US Hwy 98 North • Lakeland FL 33809 wwww.CentralFloridaAngling.com
40- Whirly Bait 352-443-0245 Lake Panasoffkee FL 33538 www.whirlybait.com
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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
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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
Old Salt Marine 1916 Us Hwy 98 North • Lakeland, FL 33805 9003 E. St Rd. 44 •Wildwood, FL 34785 Ph: 863-802-0543 • Fax: 863-688-3954 www.OldSaltMarine.com Sea Ark - Salty Boats - Stumpnocker - Polar Kraft Misty Harbor Pontoons - Sea Born Boats. Outboard Motors - Mercury - Evinrude - Yamaha - Suzuki.
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
Yamaha - Evinrude - Mercury - MerCruiser Volvo Penta - Avalon - Magic Tilt - Exide Technologies Power-Pole - Teleflex Marine Starcraft Marine - Engel Coolers & Tumblers
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Pana Vista Lodge 3417 Co Rd 421 • Lake Panasoffkee, FL 33538 352-793-2061 www.panavistalodge.com Cottages - Rv Camp Ground Hook-Ups - Camping - Boat Sales & Service. JohnsonEvinrude Motors Sales & Service. Boat Rentals Pontoon Rentals - Licenses - Bait - Ice - Gas Ramp
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 MARCH 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
3538 吀䔀一伀刀伀䌀
als -
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 personal and powerful! COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM MARCH 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
**FREE ESTIMATES** A Cut Above Polish Shop
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 Polish Semi-Trucks (Including Small Fleets!) - Boats Rv’s - Buses - Motorcycles & Vehicles.
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!
Central Florida Trolling Motor Sales & Repairs
COME CHECK OUT OUR NEW ROUNDABOUT BOATS!
3780 Hwy 92 East • Lakeland, FL 33801 863-666-2248 • Fax 863-667-0213 cftm3780@yahoo.com www.CentralFloridaTrollingMotor.com 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 Motorcycle - Cell Phone - Household Automotive - Commerical - Marine - RV General Public Welcome
Jefford’s Airboats 1850 Hwy 92W • Winter Haven Fl 33881 863-956-3030 Jefford’s Airboats
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MARCH 2017
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Bait & Tackle Shops/Outfitters/Apparel Waters Edge Fish Camp 10730 Camp Mack Rd • Lake Wales FL 33898 (863)589-6295 Capt David Ochs (863)696-1411 Store Store, Fuel, Propane, Cabins, Bait Shop, Boat Rental, Boat Ramp
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 Phillips Bait & Tackle 3780 Hwy. 92E • Lakeland, FL 33801 863-666-2248 www.PhillipsTackle.com cftm3780@yahoo.com 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 Spring 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
Off The Wall Adventures & Outfitters 2055 Shepherd Rd. • Lakeland, FL 33811 863-709-9253 www.OffTheWallAdventures.com Fishing & Diving Charters 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. 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
Scalloping Charter Capt. Rick Burns Reel Burns Charters Homosassafishingguide.com 352-201-6111 Manatee Charter
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Capt. Bobby Woodard www.Captain-Bobby.com 863-224-1418 USCG. Licensed Tarpon, Snook, Grouper
MARCH 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
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
San Diegos Mexican Grill & Sport Bar 1300 3rd St SW • Winter Haven 33880 (863)268-4477 - facebook.com/House-ofWings-1185199374843017/ Draft Beer 2-4-1 All Day Everyday! House Margarita and Sangria 2 For 1 3pm-7pm Everyday. Tuesday Wings $.79. Kids2017 Eat FREE Every Thursday 20 POLK & SUMPTER MARCH COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM With A Purchase Of An Adult Meal. CAM Mar.indd 20
Hooters
3437 S Florida Ave • Lakeland FL 33803 863-644-8461 www.hooters.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!
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!
Beef O’ Brady’s
102 W Polk St • Auburndale, FL 33823 863-968-0010 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!
2/13/2017 9:47:10 PM
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4th Annual Chili in the Park Chili Cook-Off 03-11-17 11:30 AM - 04:30 PM Eastern Lake Eva Park 555 Ledwith Avenue Haines City, FL 33844
Habitat for Humanity of East Polk County, Inc. presents the 4th Annual Chili in the Park Chili Cook-Off, Saturday, March 11, 2017 - Lake Eva Park, 555 Ledwith Ave., Haines City, FL 33844 - 11:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Cash Prizes, entertainment & more! Entry Fee: $35 + at least 4 gallons of chili (the more chili you bring, the more people to vote for People’s Choice $1,000 prize!) Anyone can compte, register today at www.chiliinthepark.com.
New Gun Show
Big Weekend Event, Buy-Sell-Trade
Lakeland, FL
National Guard Armory
4140 Drane Field Rd Lakeland, FL (By Airport)
March 4-5, 2010
$1.00 OFF
Admission
Saturday 9-5 – Sunday 10-4
12 and under Free with adult admission
Vendors call 865 453 0074
CCW Classes at 10am , 2pm Only $49 for more info please call 561-214-5115 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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Auburndale Polk Tractor Co. Hungry Howies Beef O’ Brady’s Pizza Town New China Buffet Traders Pawn Fields Equip. Action Watersports Winn Dixie Hong Kong Restaurant Clock Restaurant Pizza Connection Auburndale Library Walmart Best Western Inn & Suites Hamptons Clubhouse Circle K Palace Pizza Brew Hounds Sports Lounge Marathon Hillman Motors Pro Nails Discount Furniture - Carpet Mattress Warehouse Kelley’s Used Cars
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 Instyle Barber Shop
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 Winter Haven Sky Powersports 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 Waters Edge Fish Camp Harry’s Old Place Hurricane Grill & Bar Frostproof Sorenson & Schade Chevy Little Dixie Mart RKY Seafood Market San Diego’s Mexican Grill & Chamber of Commerce Little Dixie Mart Sport Bar Spurlow’s Outdoor Erwines Marine Davenport Bagwell’s Ramada Jimmy’s Barbershop Way Out West Anchor Down Bait & Tackle Mannino's Pizza Dicks Sporting Goods Posner Frostproof Sunoco Ace Hardware Center Polk Outpost 27 Lakeland Grand China Buffet Walmart Posner Park Chrysler/Jeep/ Phillips Bait & Tackle Dodge Central Fl Trolling Fantasea Marine Haines City Mas Verde Goodyear 24 POLK & SUMPTER
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Rod Actions for
Coastal Fishing By CAM Staff • Photo Courtesy of Matt Holder
B
roomstick. That’s what I started out coastal fishing with nearly 20 years ago. I had done quite well bass fishing with heavy-action rods growing up fishing freshwater lakes and ponds. When I began fishing saltwater bays, I was quite fond of my medium-heavy and heavy action broomsticks. Of course I was using them to ‘horse’ 8to 11-pound bass out of heavy cover and matted vegetation. Those actions are fine to start with in saltwater bays, but fishing for speckled trout and redfish in most bays doesn’t require bringing out the heavy artillery. In fact, going lighter and allowing today’s more precisely built fishing tools to do their job at the upper end of their limits is much more effective in catching more and bigger speckled trout, and they do fine on most slot and oversized reds up to almost 42 inches. Lately I have seen quite a few inquiries on the saltwater inshore boards asking “is this rod ok, or can I use that rod action for trout?” I thought I’d cover some rod actions that handle the bays, flats and marshes a little more like Craig Biggio handled a baseball bat. That guy was awesome in the field, didn’t swing a big bat but produced big results with consistency. That is what we are after. For saltwater inshore fishing with a casting rod and reel for speckled trout and redfish, the most used rod and action would be something in the realm of a 6’6” medium-power rod with a fast tip. It should be rated to throw lures weighing from 1/8 to 5/8-ounce. I regularly throw lures up to ¾-ounce, such as Super Spooks or other
CANGL_FIL1-FIL4.indd 3
large topwater plugs, on this specific rod rating. Line ratings will fall generally between 8- to 15-pound test. Each rod maker will have a little different variation on this, but they’ll be close to this range. This rod will cast a large variety of saltwater inshore lures ranging from soft plastics on 1/16-ounce lead or bismuth jig heads all the way to 3/4 or 1-ounce topwaters. Overall, it will function best and cast the longest with lure weights that fall within its rated specification. For example, one can certainly cast a ¾-ounce MirrOlure Paul Brown slow sinking FatBoy or Mirrodine XL on a rod that’s rated for 1/8 to 5/8-ounce, but I find that it may not cast as far since it’s slightly over-loading the blank. A fast-action tip will help mitigate some of the distance loss (and we’re just splitting hairs here) but it’s going to get the job done and allow you to fish with that one rod all day with just about any lure in the box. I recently switched over to Lew’s Inshore rod series with blanks that are specifically made for saltwater inshore anglers. I’m really liking them.
2/14/17 5:02 PM
B.A.S.S. Calls Anti-Lead Edict Anti-Fishing
O
n the day before President Barack Obama left office, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) issued an edict to ban lead fishing tackle and ammunition from hundreds of thousands of acres of land and water managed by that agency. Executed without stakeholder input, the controversial action has sparked outrage from fishing and hunting communities. B.A.S.S. joined with state fisheries management agencies and the American Sportfishing Association (ASA) in calling on the new administration and FWS to put a hold on the order. “This 11th hour order, just hours before the new administration was to take office, was an obvious attempt to push through an order that is part of the previous administration’s environmental agenda without full consultation among all the stakeholders,” said B.A.S.S. Conservation Director Gene Gilliland. Scott Gudes, ASA’s vice president of government affairs, added, “The sportfishing industry views this unilateral policy to ban lead fishing tackle, which was developed without any input from the industry, other angling organizations and state fish and wildlife agencies, as a complete disregard for the economic and social impact it will have on anglers and the recreational fishing industry.” Signed by FWS Director Dan Ash, Order No. 219 requires “the use of nontoxic ammunition and fishing tackle to the fullest extent practicable for all activities on service lands, waters and facilities.” Fortunately, action was taken by the new Trump administration that could hinder its effectiveness. A memorandum issued from the White House to departments and agencies announced a freeze on implementing new regulations, pending review. Still, individual jurisdictions within FWS might choose to enforce the rule. For years, environmentalists have attempted to gain a complete ban on lead ammunition and fishing tackle by filing lawsuits. They’ve done so, Gilliland said, “despite the lack of a clear connection in many cases of negative population-level impacts on fish and wildlife.” Their arguments have been rejected by the courts. At the same time, selective bans have been
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implemented where research suggests a need for them, such as in some northern waters, where loons ingest lead shot. “In the limited instances where lead fishing tackle is demonstrated to harm local wildlife populations, the sportfishing industry supports actions to minimize or eliminate these impacts,” Gudes said. “However, unnecessary and sweeping bans such as this director’s order will do nothing to benefit wildlife populations and instead will penalize the nation’s 46 million anglers and hurt recreational fishing-dependent jobs.” If not rescinded, it also will damage the partnership between the federal agency and the states, according to Nick Wiley, president of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. “This action flies squarely in the face of a long and constructive tradition of states working in partnership with the service to effectively manage fish and wildlife resources,” he said. “The Association views this order as a breach of trust and deeply disappointing given that it was a complete surprise and there was no current dialogue or input from state fish and wildlife agencies prior to issuance. It does a disservice to hunters and anglers, the firearms and angling industries, and the many professionals on staff with the USFWS who desire a trusting and transparent relationship with their state partners.”
2/14/17 5:03 PM
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y
Fishing Terms In Ordinary English
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ven for landlubbers who never go fishing or even think about the subject, fishing terms play an important part in our everyday English language, giving us vivid, meaningful expressions to better express our meaning. Take, for example, the following examples from the domain of fishing. A messed-up reel caused by a poor cast is a “backlash,” a word that can also mean to ordinary people “an opposite reaction to an action.” For example, the school board’s latest decision caused a backlash among normally complacent people. While a can of worms can be useful to an angler about to bait her hook, a “can of worms” in ordinary life can be a potentially messy problem. Have you ever said something like, “let’s not open that can of worms” when you want to avoid something? Speaking of an angler’s fishing hook, we have “barb” for the angled point of such a hook. And that has led to “barb” for a cutting, deliberately hurtful remark, as in “his public barb rankled the victim more than people realized.” If, in place of a cast line, we instead
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police parlance for a means of “netting” criminals. Think of the 1950s old-time radio show, “Dragnet,” with Sergeant Joe Friday trawling for the bad guys. Then, when the unsuspecting fish takes the bait, i.e. strikes at the bait on our hook, it bites. We can use “bite” for the meaning of “to fall for a trick or a joke.” For example: “Why did the ostrich cross the road?” “Okay. I’ll bite. Why did the ostrich cross the road?” When we don’t catch the fish that took our bait, i.e. when it outsmarted us, we
can console ourselves with the expression, “there are more fish in the ocean (or sea)” with the meaning of “there are other, maybe even better opportunities ahead for us.” A rejected suitor can console himself with that idiom from the world of fishing. We can describe a heavy alcohol drinker as one who “drinks like a fish” or one who is “loaded to the gills,” comparing an imbiber to a fish that seems to drink or take in a lot of water. A suspicious incident or action can be “fishy,” as in “There’s something fishy about that fellow.” A relatively new term describing the malicious attempt to acquire sensitive information like passwords and credit card details is “phishing,” which is a homophone or word that is pronounced the same as another (“fishing”), but differs in meaning and maybe spelling. The similarity to “fishing” goes back to the idea of using bait in an attempt to catch an unsuspecting victim. So there you have just a few examples of how the sport of fishing has entered our ordinary language. 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 on Kevin McCarthy, go to
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March Madness Inshore By Captain Terry Fisher
T
his is the time of the year when I look forward to knowing I will not be disappointed with productivity. It is the beginning of spring and spring fever! In many areas, the revered snook again becomes a target for harvest. Their strikes will be ferocious after a “long winter’s nap.” Other species will become more aggressive with an abundance of baitfish. Tarpon may begin to make their annual migration to southwest Florida waters, accompanied by sharks. It is all about the water temperature. A consistent 68 degrees will guarantee at least some sizeable numbers of tarpon off of the beaches, in the passes and up the rivers. Sheepshead should still be available in larger numbers. They got a late start this year in southwest Florida due to the higher than normal water temperatures during early winter. Spanish mackerel, large jack crevalle, ladyfish and pompano will become happy and hungry. Large seatrout will become more numerous in the grass flats of open water and around the sand holes and turtle grass close to the spoil islands. This is the month to experience artificial baits for the gamefish. The abundance of live baitfish helps disguise these presentations. Fish seem less cautious coming out of their winter haunts with a new outlook on
life. Some effective lures are topwater, twitch, crank, swimbaits, spoons and weedless presentations. They all work. While artificial presentations are effective, I submit that the use of live bait gives anglers the edge. I recommend certain types of live/cut baits for better results as follows: SNOOK: Freeline pilchards. Large snook will take threadfins as well. Pinfish and large shrimp are good back-up baits. TARPON: Freeline large, live threadfins, pinfish, mullet and ladyfish. Catfish fillets are good dead bait. SEATROUT: Shrimp suspended on a weighted jig head under a cork over the grass flats. Larger trout prefer pinfish (alive or cut) under a cork or freelined along the spoil and mangrove islands. SPANISH MACKEREL: Shrimp is a cheap and easy way to target these fish. Suspend them under a cork with a long 30-pound leader or light wire. POMPANO: Tip a ‘silly willy’ jig with a shrimp or fish shrimp under a cork for an occasional by-catch. JACK CREVALLE: Shrimp on a jig head or freelined will catch these ferocious fish. Light tackle should always be used for the enjoyment of the catch. However, be sure the equipment is strong enough so as not to exhaust the fish if not harvesting. I suggest, for gamefish like snook or redfish, a 3500 to 4000 series reel mounted on a medium heavy rod with 15-pound-test line and a 30-pound fluorocarbon leader. Use size 1/0 to 3/0 circle hooks. Tarpon fishermen should utilize 6000 series reels mounted on a heavy rod with 65-pound-test line and 100-pound fluorocarbon leader. Use size 6/0 to 8/0 circle hooks. One should consider lighter tackle for all other inshore species mentioned above, as well as for mangrove snappers and flounder. Use 2500 to 3000 series spinning reels on a light rod, 10-pound-test line with a 20-pound leader and small 1/0 circle hooks. Capt. Terry Fisher of Fish Face Charters can be reached at 239357-6829 or fishfacecharters@yahoo.com. He is available as ‘Captain for Hire’ by the hour on your vessel for navigation, fishing locations and techniques that will ensure enjoyable boating and fishing.
Two State Bowfishing Records Fall
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wo new state record buffalo have been arrowed. One, a 57.7-pound bigmouth buffalo, was shot in Missouri by John Paul Morris, the son of Bass Pro founder Johnny Morris. The other, a 70.55-pound smallmouth buffalo, was shot by Alabama bowfisher Nicki Greene. Buffalo are the largest North American suckerfish. They are similar to carp and are popular with bowfishers because of their size and abundance within their native river systems. Bigmouth buffalo are filter feeders that strain zooplankton from the water. Smallmouth buffalo are bottom feeders that suck up algae and vegetation as well as small critters that live on the bottom. Their feeding habits make them difficult targets for traditional anglers, although they are said to put up a good fight when hooked. Greene was on a date with her boyfriend Adam Bearden when she arrowed her big buffalo. Their shared love of the sport is a big part of what brought them together. The fish has been officially recognized by the Bowfishing Association of America as the state record smallmouth buffalo. The official Alabama state record is pending the results of tissue samples, which will positively identify it as either a black buffalo or a smallmouth. Either way, it will be a state record. Morris shot his buffalo from a coal mine strip pit in Henry County Missouri. It had a length of 39 inches and a girth of 32.5 inches.
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Florida Trash Tour Begins March 25 at Cedar Key
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Photo by Michael Pereckas
he Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) and Swamp Head Brewery are teaming up for the 2017 Florida Trash Tour, a series of tournament-style trash round ups that will award prizes in a number of different categories. Swamp Head will bring free beer! Throughout 2017, the tour will have several events all over the state to clean up Florida waters. The first stop is at Cedar Key on Saturday, March 25 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Registration is free, and so is food and beer at the after party. This is, however, a family friendly event, so sodas and water will be available for anyone under the age of 21. Those who need a place to stay should contact Cedar Key Cove Marina for discounts and availability at 352-543-6148. In each event, there will be divisions for boaters and walkers, so a boat is not necessary. Prizes will be awarded for the most trash collected. Other Tour Stop Dates: Titusville - April 22 Jacksonville - June 10 Steinhatchee - August 26 St. Augustine - November 4
For information, contact Caitlin Mitchell with CCA at cmitchell@ ccaflorida.org or 407-401-7677. To register online, go to the CCA Florida website at www.ccaflorida.org and find the event on the Airline_Ad_CoastalAngler_8-1-14_Layout 1 8/1/14 1:14 PM Page 1 “Calendar of Events” page.
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Will Florida Allow Goliath Grouper Harvest? FWC Photo
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lorida Today is reporting that the mighty goliath grouper might soon be fair game for anglers in Florida. The topic spurred some heated discussion at the February Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) meeting in Crystal River. FWC staff members have begun the outreach for input that will help determine the future of management for the high-profile species and how a limited harvest might work. This data will be considered at the FWC meetings next fall or winter. Once known as jewfish, harvest of goliath grouper has been off limits for 27 years. Since catch data is important to research and population estimates, researchers have little data from which to assess populations. A strictly controlled and limited harvest of these huge grouper would help the FWC more accurately determine how many of them are actually out there. According to FLKeysNews.com, public input at the Crystal River meeting was varied. Diving interests spoke in opposition to harvest because of the huge fish’s attraction for divers. Recreational anglers spoke in favor of a limited harvest, saying the species is overpopulated in some areas and threatening stocks of other species.
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The Changing Face of the Indian River Lagoon Estuary By Zack Jud, Ph.D.
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lear water! As I poled a Fort Pierce shoreline, I was thrilled to see last year’s environmental disaster had finally relaxed its grip. I had all but forgotten how exceptional the sight fishing can be without the ubiquitous green and brown water we’ve all slowly accepted as the new normal. I could see bottom for the first time in more than a year. Even better, I was seeing gamefish—a mix of snook, reds and trout that provided ample opportunity for a carefully placed cast. More important than what I saw was what I didn’t see. Seagrass was conspicuously absent from an area that was blanketed in green just a few years ago. With clear water comes the frightening realization that most of the Indian River Lagoon system is devoid of seagrass. Aside from a few ever-shrinking patches that I fished over in the Mosquito Lagoon this winter, I’ve been seeing nothing but bare bottom. Similar reports are rolling in from anglers throughout the system. An excited phone call about seagrass recovery from a friend who makes his living guiding on the Banana River turned out to be yet another letdown. From the bow of his skiff a few days later, it became apparent that the green carpet of “seagrass” was actually an aggressive species of bottom-dwelling Caulerpa algae—a seagrass lookalike that provides few benefits to our ecosystems. This shift from seagrass to macroalgae is occurring throughout the Indian River Lagoon system. It might have cascading consequences that go far beyond the gamefish we so deeply value. To make matters worse, the clear water we’re enjoying this winter has nothing to do with improved management practices. It has nothing to do with the dedicated efforts of concerned anglers and citizens. There were no hard-earned environmental victories for conservation groups, no
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game-changing environmental legislation. To the contrary, last year’s environmental catastrophe has resulted in little change to Florida’s troubled water infrastructure. Improving conditions in our estuaries are nothing more than Mother Nature giving us a few minutes to catch our breath in the corner before the inevitable round ahead. Unless substantial changes occur, Lake Okeechobee discharges and agricultural runoff in the southern Indian River Lagoon, along with septic tanks, sewage treatment plants and residential fertilizer use in the central and northern lagoon, will continue pushing the Indian River Lagoon–and its valuable sport fishery–to the brink of ecological collapse. Thankfully, there is some positive news to report. It seems our voices are finally being heard by a handful of legislators, and lawmakers are getting involved in meaningful discussions that might result in improved water quality for our estuaries and the Everglades. Most important to anglers is Florida Senate Bill 10, a law that if passed would facilitate water storage and filtration in the Everglades Agricultural Area south of Lake Okeechobee. By storing and cleaning Okeechobee’s polluted water using enormous filtration marshes, we can reduce harmful freshwater discharges to coastal areas, while simultaneously providing the Everglades with the water it desperately needs. No other single component of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP) has this much potential to improve the health of Florida’s waters. Clear water? Don’t count on it lasting. The bottom of our estuary, now devoid of seagrasses and their stabilizing root systems, is easily stirred up by wind and waves. Human factors that led to last year’s algae blooms, fish kills and massive freshwater discharges are still in place. While our inshore waters may be clear right now, the next disaster is looming. Sure, there are still gamefish to be found, but not in the numbers we remember from even a few years ago. More concerning is the lack of bottom-dwelling prey species—the base of the estuarine food web. While midwater forage fish like mullet, anchovies and pilchards will probably remain abundant for a while, crabs, shrimp and pinfish—species that depend on healthy seagrass—are becoming as scarce as rocking horse manure. Without clean water, without sea grass, without forage species, without nursery habitats, the fishery we cherish may be taking its last gasps. Dr. Zack Jud is the director of education at Florida Oceanographic Society, a coastal ecologist, and a fly casting instructor. Contact him at zjud@ floridaocean.org. Check out the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center’s cool kids’ fishing programs at www.floridaocean.org.
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Fishing Line And Tackle Disposal
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ishing is a key component of the Florida lifestyle as well as the state’s economy. But fishing line and other fishing tackle frequently enter Florida’s aquatic systems creating potential traps for unsuspecting wildlife. Monofilament is the most common type of fishing line, however, modern advances have produced several other varieties with higher tensile strength, reduced visibility and greater abrasion resistance. While fluorocarbon can be recycled in the same manner as mono, braided line and wire leaders must be disposed of differently. Anglers can purchase or make their own fishing line storage bins to keep with them so that line can be stored securely and out of the way. Products such as the Monomaster and Line Snatcher help anglers store unwanted fishing line; however, homemade versions can be made by cutting an “X” in the lid of something as simple as a coffee can. Once on shore, mono and fluorocarbon line can be recycled in designated bins found at boat ramps, piers and tackle shops. Anglers should not use these bins to discard any other type of fishing line or leader material such as braid or wire. Also, the bins should not be used to discard tackle, such as hooks, lures or soft plastics. To discard non-monofilament line, such as braid or wire, cut the line into 12inch or smaller pieces and place into a covered trash receptacle. You can learn how to make your own monofilament recycling bin by visiting our FWC Saltwater Fishing YouTube channel. For more information on the statewide Monofilament Recovery & Recycling Program, visit MRRP.MyFWC.com. As part of the “Pitch It” campaign, soft plastic baits with the hook or jig head removed can be discarded in special program containers that are separate from monofilament recycling bins. Learn more about soft bait disposal and the “Pitch It” campaign by visiting Pledgetopitchit.org. For more on how to make a monofilament recycling bin, go to
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Not Just
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et’s face it… the majority of us who hear the title “safety class” usually aren’t thrilled at the prospect of sitting through hours of cliché safety lectures. Boater safety classes are something a lot of us put up with to move forward with getting a boating license or captain’s license. We read about all the horror stories of boating Brandon Tourigny with a nice accidents but Crystal River trout. never think it could happen to us. For me, things like life jackets, up-to-date fire extinguishers, or proper flares were just things that seemed more like hassles to keep on-hand because I didn’t want to receive a ticket from the game warden. However, when the unexpected does happen, when the worst possible scenario unfolds before your eyes, there is no telling how much time you will have to react. How you react in these situations could very well be the difference of life and death. This past month a friend and I were given a rude awakening on the importance of emergency preparedness during a fishing trip into the heart of the Crystal River. After a long day of fishing through the backcountry, we experienced engine failure on our way back to the boat ramp at about 7:30 p.m. With wet clothes, dropping temperatures, howling winds, and only one working phone with 30 percent battery life, it would be an understatement to say that nothing was going our way. Thankfully this story has a happy ending since an unsung hero, who will remain nameless, went the extra mile to see us to safety. Had we been forced to stay the night on the boat, one thing could have become a serious risk for us, hypothermia. With the temperature supposed to drop into the 40s, we had no dry clothes, and hypothermia was a real threat. Emergency situations are actually very preventable if you take the effort to prepare for the worst. Situations such as being stranded due to engine failure, being stuck due to low tide, or a sinking vessel are why having a strong working knowledge of maritime law, safety and emergency preparedness are not something to be taken lightly. Also, the simple step of having an emergency bag containing fire starting materials, nonperishable foods, blankets or towels, some dry clothes and rain ponchos can very well mean the difference between a miserable or life threatening experience or just an inconvenient yet nonthreatening wait for help. When getting ready to go out on the boat to fish or just to enjoy the water, safety should never be taken lightly, because emergency situations can happen to anyone at any time. As a friend of mine’s father once told me, the smartest people don’t learn from experience but from the experiences of others. These are the people who go out more prepared the next time.
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by blending into the reef, and some just want SHERI DAYE to look cool. Ladies, if you’re looking for he popularity of spearfishing in the “skins” for the summer U.S. has grown significantly, and it in attractive patterns, has spawned product innovation and improvements—not only with spearguns, check out Slipins. You might not blend into but with associated dive apparel. Believe it the reef, but you will look amazing! 2) Gloves: There are more sizes, or not, how you dress can play an important thicknesses and features now. I’ve been part of the hunt. Here are some examples: 1) Wetsuits: It’s important for a hunter to diving in water so cold that I lost feeling be comfortable in the water. If you are cold in my hands and couldn’t feel the trigger. and shivering, if your suit is rubbing the I should have sprung for a thicker pair of back of your legs, if it feels too tight in the gloves when I traveled to California. With the popularity of polespearing, chest—you will not perform as effectively. In this regard, new wetsuits with open-cell there’s a need for gloves that make it easy to technology and newer materials have been hold a loaded polespear, so the grip is made a godsend. They are softer, stretchier and of nitrile or latex while the rest of the gloves thinner, yet they keep you warmer than the (back of hand and wrists) are a dynema/ old materials. A good wetsuit should feel Kevlar composition. The all-Kevlar gloves like a second skin and should not let water are useful for handling fish or lobsters. It’s in anywhere. The following brands are not uncommon to get cut by gill rakers when available at your local dive shop: Yazbeck, dispatching bigger fish. Wearing solid gloves will give you confidence when handling fish. Mares, Riffe, Omer, Cressi and more. Most spearfishing wetsuit brands now Check out Neritic and Akona, among others. 3) Booties: With the advent of long fins have both a men’s and women’s cut, resulting in a better fit. The new stretchy materials for spearfishing, it’s become more important are forgiving enough to fit most bodies. for the fin-pocket/bootie combination to Still not happy with the fit? No worries; form a good fit. An ill-fitting fin will greatly there are several affordable custom wetsuit reduce efficiency in the water. As with gloves, manufacturers who will tailor one to your there’s a greater variety of choices, and it’s important to try them on with the foot measurements. Try Oceanos or Elios. Another recent development is the pocket you plan to wear. Next time you go spearfishing, make wide variety of camouflage patterns. Some hunters believe it allows them to be stealthier sure you are dressed for success!
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TIPS FROM A PRO
FRESHWATER THE THINGS WE WEAR
O
BRANDON LESTER
utdoor apparel isn’t as much fun to talk about as how to catch big bass, but it’s important for those of us who spend a lot of time on a boat. I’m not sponsored by any clothing companies or anything like that, but I do know what I like. Let’s start with hoodies. You just can’t beat a quality hoodie for chilly mornings and running down the lake. Most of my sponsors have sent me a hoodie or two, but I have to say my all-time favorite one is from Raymarine. There’s something about the texture of the hoodie. It’s manufactured by
cover up from the sun as well. They keep me cool and really make a difference in how much energy I have after a long day on the water. I also like MHX’s lightweight hat as well as a trucker hat I have from Phoenix Boats. A rain suit is key for me too. Mud Hole was nice enough to send me one from Gill that really works well. They make good stuff. Raymarine sent one made by Stormr, and it is my favorite for cold weather. Mercury provided me one from Simms that is really nice, and it has held
Sport-Tek and is just extremely comfortable. It looks good too. For those cold mornings, I really like to have on a beanie, too. I have accumulated several from Mercury, and I really like theirs. Mercury’s are good quality and don’t shrink. I’ve had others that got loose and feel like they were going to fly off. Everything has to be tight when running at 70-plus mph. Buff USA makes good beanies, as well, and several other cold weather products I like. Most of us think of Buff for sun protection, but they perform in the cold too. Speaking of sun protection, I will indeed have a UV Buff around my neck 95 percent of the time. I also wear their gloves, and honestly it feels a little strange to not fish with gloves on anymore. As younger anglers, we’ve heard stories and seen pictures of sun-damaged skin. Most of us heed the warnings. I wear MHX sun shirts to
up very well. You can never have too many rain suits. You never know when you’ll need a backup for either yourself or someone fishing with you. To complete the look and feel, I like to wear lightweight, comfortable fishing shorts from Mercury. You see a ton of anglers wearing the Mercury shorts, so it was obviously a brilliant marketing move for them to send them to us. It just feels like “game day” when I have them on. Did I mention all this stuff is wrinkle free. Even our jerseys are wrinkle-free. I usually stay in hotels, and I’m thankful to be able to pull my gear out of the suitcase or out of a boat compartment and have it look good. Valley Fashions does a good job with our jerseys. That’s enough about clothing. Next month we will get back to fishing. If you ever have any topics you would like me to cover, hit me up on Facebook or Instagram.
Get more tips from Lester at
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FISH & FISHING
PRIORITIES
A
MARK SOSIN
nglers tend to reverse priorities. Instead of focusing on fishing an artificial effectively, they worry more about choosing some magical fly or lure guaranteed to produce a spectacular catch simply by being in the water. Success seldom happens that way. If you have confidence in your choice and believe it will work, it probably will, provided your presentation and retrieve are effective. The best bait in the box will bomb unless it looks realistic and natural to your quarry. Fishing an artificial is a mental game. It’s easy to be distracted and simply cast and retrieve without any purpose or thought behind each presentation. Every cast should be made to correctly cover a specific segment of water and effectively put an offering in front of a fish. Simple things can make a difference. Here are a couple of examples. I watched an angler cast a swimming plug with a lip into the shallows, crank the reel handle four to six times so the plug dove downward along the dropoff, pause for a moment until the plug began to rise, and then continue the retrieve. If you stood next to him and simply retrieved the plug without pausing so it could rise, you couldn’t buy a strike. Another time, a friend who had been a guide was fishing with me. He kept getting strikes on his lure, while I became more frustrated with every cast, and we were using the same artificial. I watched his every move and tried to duplicate it to no avail. Finally, I asked him what he was doing that was different than my retrieve. As he worked his lure, he kept vibrating his hand. It was too subtle to see. Vibrating his wrist caused his lure to flash underwater just like a real baitfish. That made all the difference. Finding a school of breaking fish on the surface stirs the soul and telegraphs the imminent success to every fiber in your body. The key is to keep the boat away from the school while moving up ahead of it. Casts should be made in front of the school when possible or
at least close to it so that the retrieve follows the basic path of the school. Assuming the school is moving north, you want your retrieve to cover the northeast or northwest quadrant. It should move in the general direction of the main body of fish. Not very often will a school member chase a lure going in a direction opposite that of the main body of fish. Retrieving an artificial must make it appear to the fish that it is trying to escape. If the predator senses that the lure is moving toward it, you can bet it will spook. Every cast should be carefully calculated to make the lure look realistic. If a fish fails to strike, vary the retrieve. And, in cooler water, don’t overlook a slower retrieve. Those anglers who set the standards fishing artificial baits make every cast count. Follow their lead and you should begin to catch more and more fish on artificial lures.
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TACKLE CORNER:
GETTING A FRESH HANDLE ON SPINNING RODS By Mike Pehanich
T
he topic of spinning tackle can be a lightning rod among fishermen. Opinions on it vary greatly across the angling spectrum. Some rely on spinning tackle and, literally, can’t fish without it. Some hate it and can hardly broach discussion of this “down-side” style of fishing without a snide aside (“a birdsnest waiting to happen”) or epithet challenging the user’s manhood (“fairy wand”). In recent years, effective finesse techniques in the bass world have taken the fire out of the debate, and a sober “it’sjust-a-tool” mentality has cleared a place for spinning in the arsenals of most serious anglers. Design Disadvantage Outside the realm of partisan debate, however, spinning tackle has remained open to at least one legitimate complaint. The design of most spinning rods compels the fishermen to grip the rod across the reel seat and straddle the reel stem, leaving the angler’s hand little or no grip security and comfort. The design leads to particular disadvantage when fighting big fish or fishing in adverse weather conditions, from snowstorms and freezing cold to tropical humidity and lightning bolts. Fortunately, solutions have come to the fore. Here are three options to answer the spinning rod conundrum. Hooded Reel Seat With Polymer Grip: Hooded reel seats,
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such as those in Fuji’s VSS series, are designed for a grip shaped to extend over the reel seat. The design provides palm support—grip comfort and security at the palm interface—even with fingers straddling the spinning reel stem. Fuji, through its exclusive American distributor Anglers Resource, introduced a proprietary set of Winn grips (WVSS1615, WVS17), tailored to fit precisely with two of its newest and most popular spinning reel seats and its Perfect Fit Trim. This combination of grip and reel seat adds ergonomic benefit and puts more of the hand into contact with the non-slip Winn grip polymer. Aero Comfort Finish Reel Seat: American Tackle offers a spinning reel seat with a topside extension that delivers palm support. Like hooded reel seats, the design provides ergonomic benefit by supporting the palm, but it is a hood-like portion of the reel seat rather than grip material that reaches up to meet the palm. The “comfort finish” reduces the degree of hand slippage. Mummy wrap: West Coast saltwater anglers were the first to overwrap spinning rod handles with Winn Superior Rod Wrap, a “skin” of patented Winn polymer, known for its tackiness in adverse weather conditions. The tape-like material is backed with a forgiving adhesive that wraps easily around rod handles. The “mummy wrap” approach adds a continuous wrap from rod butt to foregrip with the reel already in place. The mummy wrap straddles the reel stem over both ends of the reel foot. Palm and fingers have complete contact with the non-slip polymer covering the entire handle. Check out the spinning rods in your arsenal, and see if one of these solutions can add comfort and effectiveness to your fishing. Rod wraps are simple solutions. Check with a custom rod builder or rod repairmen about retrofitting spinning rods with a new grip or reel seat.
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EAGLE MARINE TRIO ROD HOLDER Eagle Marine’s new Trio Rod Holder conveniently stores three rods while only utilizing one rod holder in your boat’s gunnel. This setup is ideal for kite fishing or anytime when multiple rods will be used. All aluminum construction is bright dipped anodized to ensure many years of protection from the harsh marine environment. Custom soft PVC Liners help create a secure fit into the tapered rod holders that feature a welded cross pin. The Trio Rod Holder fits standard gunnel-mount rod holders. It features three 8 ½-inch tapered and flared rod holders with custom fitted white PVC liners. These rod holders are ideal for kite fishing or any time an angler needs to add more rods to a spread. For more information on this and all of Eagle Marine’s fine products, see www.eagleproducts.us/ eagle-marine/.
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$10.99
LIMIT 7 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
ITEM 69043/63282/42304 shown ITEM 42305/69044/63171
SAVE 59%
YOUR CHOICE
49 $2999 $69.99 $
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
$ 99 comp at
comp at
9 PIECE FULLY POLISHED SAVE 59% COMBINATION WRENCH SETS
40
ITEM 61740/63109 63152/4077 shown
5999 $64.99 SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating
12 VOLT, 250 PSI PORTABLE INFLATOR
99
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SAVE 57%
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
$39
B. PANCAKE
B SUPER COUPON
Cu
ITEM 95275 shown 60637/61615
Customer Rating
$5999
SUPER COUPON
A. HOT DOG
ITEM 69269/97080 shown
A
69265/62344
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
3 GALLON, 100 PSI OILLESS AIR COMPRESSORS
ITEM 60581/60653 shown
SUPER COUPON
79
SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating
SAVE RETRACTABLE AIR HOSE REEL $138 WITH 3/8" x 50 FT. HOSE ITEM 93897 shown
$
S
99
$129.99
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
comp at 99 $28.83
LIMIT 6 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
JACKS IN AMERICA
LIMIT 800-423 purchase Offer g presente
SAV 65
ITEM 69779 67500 shown
$2999 99 7 $2 $44.99
SUPER COUPON
LIMIT 800-423 purchas Offer g presente
comp at
LIMIT 3 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
2/14/17 1:46 PM
75
OG
own
WITH
ITEM 63599/69052 shown 69111/62522/62573
SUPER COUPON
$
14999
comp at
$9999
$205.99
Customer Rating
12" SLIDING COMPOUND DOUBLE-BEVEL MITER SAW Customer Rating WITH LASER GUIDE
2000 WATT CONTINUOUS/ 4000 WATT PEAK POWER INVERTER
Customer Rating
ITEM 60432 69662 shown
ITEM 63091/63248 68998 shown
SUPER COUPON
$2999 SAVE $ $76
900 PEAK/700 RUNNING WATTS, 2 HP (63CC) 2 CYCLE GAS GENERATOR EPA/CARB
19999
$339
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SAVE $95
SUPER COUPON
$11999 $16999 $215.41 comp at
LIMIT 3 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
ITEM 46807/68975 69221/62123/63017 BAR 69222 shown
12" RATCHET CLAMP/SPREADER
WIRELESS SECURITY ALERT SYSTEM
3
t
$
$299
comp at
ITEM 93068 shown 69590/61910/62447 Customer Rating
SAVE 68%
SUPER COUPON
$ 99
1499 SUPER COUPON 99 comp at
$20.76
$31.46
LIMIT 6 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
SAVE $60
MAGNETIC TRAILER ALIGNMENT KIT Customer Rating
9
$ 99
comp at
$19.99
ITEM 69778
SUPER COUPON
$6
$
LIMIT 8 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
NAT_0317.indd 41
•
• No Gas Required
120 AMP FLUX WIRE WELDER
ITEM 61849/62719 Customer Rating 68887 shown
SUPER COUPON
99
750+ Stores Nationwide
$9
LIMIT 9 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
SAVE 65%
comp at
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
ITEM 63024 63025 shown
SUPER COUPON
$8999 $10999
99
comp at 99 $149.99
$8999
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SAVE NOW
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
3
SAVE 85%
3799 $106.34
SUPER COUPON
18 VOLT CORDLESS 3/8" DRILL/DRIVER WITH KEYLESS CHUCK SUPER COUPON
comp at
wn
ing rior ipt. be day.
SUPER COUPON
130 PIECE TOOL KIT WITH CASE
ITEM 69651 62868/62873 68239 shown
$13499
$
comp at
9
$ 99 $19.97
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
Blade sold separately.
• 1000 lb. capacity
LIMIT 1 - Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or prior purchase. Coupon good at our stores, HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Offer good while supplies last. Shipping & Handling charges may apply if not picked up in-store. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one FREE GIFT coupon per customer per day.
SAVE $204
ON
ON
$7
99
VALUE
SUPER COUPON
ITEM 61969/61970 69684 shown
62
ing rior ipt. be day.
SAVE $106
SAVE 59%
SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating
E
3
ITEM 60497/93888 shown 61899/62399/63095/63096 63098/63097
4
SUPER COUPON
E %
N
MOVER'S DOLLY
Customer Rating
$ 97
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
15
9
ANY PURCHASE
SUPER COUPON
3-1/2" SUPER BRIGHT NINE LED ALUMINUM FLASHLIGHT
KE
L T
10 FT. x 20 FT. PORTABLE CAR CANOPY
ITEM 63054/60728/69034/62858 shown
own
alling prior ceipt. be day.
FREE
SUPER COUPON ™
inal day.
SS RS
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
80 PIECE ROTARY TOOL KIT ITEM 97626 shown 68986/69451 63235/63292
$1699
Customer Rating
Includes one 18V NiCd battery and charger.
SAVE $ 65%
1999 $49 comp at
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
ITEM 69924 shown 62403/62862 Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
6" VARIABLE SPEED DUAL ACTION POLISHER SAVE $95
SUPER COUPON comp at SAVE $ 99 71% $24.15
9
$
LIMIT 7 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
PORTABLE FISH FINDER ITEM 62675/94511 SAVE Customer Rating 46%
$
SUPER COUPON
$699
MULTI-USE TRANSFER PUMP
ITEM 62961/63144/61364 63591/66418 shown
SAVE 59%
$65
At Harbor Freight Tools, the “comp at” price means that the same item or a similar functioning item was advertised for sale at or above the "comp at" price by another retailer in the U.S. within the past 180 days. Prices advertised by others may vary by location. No other meaning of "comp at" should be implied. For more information, go to HarborFreight.com or see store associate.
HarborFreight.com • 800-423-2567 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
$149.99
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
LIMIT 3 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
comp at
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
3999 $3499
comp at
6999
$5499
Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
6
$499
$ 99 comp at $12.39
LIMIT 7 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior from original purchase with original receipt. last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
purchases after2017 30 days MARCH Offer good while supplies
NATIONAL
41
2/14/17 1:46 PM 2/13/17 10:14 AM
THIS YEAR, MAKE THE MOST OF EVERY DAY ON THE WATER
OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE MATCHED BY EXCEPTIONAL VALUE TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THESE SPECIAL BOAT SHOW OFFERS FROM SUZUKI MARINE
REPOWER FINANCE
Six Years of Protection at no extra charge on all new outboards 25 to 300 HP.
Cash Rebates on select models. See your dealer for details.
Rates as low as 5.99% on new outboards (OAC).*
Offers end March 31, 2017. See your participating Suzuki Marine dealer for details or visit www.suzukimarine.com.
42
Gimme Six Extended Protection promo is applicable to new Suzuki Outboard Motors from 25 to 300 HP in inventory which are sold and delivered to buyer between 01/01/17 and 3/31/17 in accordance with the promotion by a Participating Authorized Suzuki Marine dealer in the continental US and Alaska to a purchasing customer who resides in the continental US or Alaska. Customer should expect to receive an acknowledgement letter and full copy of contract including terms, conditions and wallet card from Suzuki Extended Protection within 90 days of purchase. If an acknowledgement letter is not received in time period stated, contact Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. – Marine Marketing via email: marinepromo@suz.com. The Gimme Six Promotion is available for pleasure use only, and is not redeemable for cash. Cash Rebates apply to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki Outboard Motors made between 01/01/17 and 3/31/17. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine.com. Customer and participating Dealer must fill out the appropriate rebate form at time of sale. Customer will have the choice to either apply the cash rebate against the original dealer invoice (Suzuki will credit Dealer parts account) or have a check sent directly to the customer. There are no model substitutions, benefit substitutions, rain checks, or extensions. Suzuki reserves the right to change or cancel these promotions at any time without notice or obligation. * Financing offers available through Synchrony Retail Finance. As low as 5.99% APR financing for 60 months on new and unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors. Subject to credit approval. Not all buyers will qualify. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. $19.99/month per $1,000 financed for 60 months is based on 5.99% APR. Hypothetical figures used in calculation; your actual monthly payment may differ based on financing terms, credit tier qualification, accessories or other factors such as down payment and fees. Offer effective on new, unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors purchased from a participating authorized Suzuki dealer between 01/01/17 and 3/31/17.“Gimme Six”, the Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2017 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.
NATIONAL
NAT_0317.indd 42
SZ_Q1Promo_WIP.indd 1
MARCH 2017
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
2/14/17 1:46 PM
12/4/16 1:46 PM
SPIDERWIRE® STEALTH™
EXTREMELY STRONG EXTREMELY CASTABLE
GO THE DISTANCE WITH STEALTH SMOOTH 8 CARRIER TIGHT-WEAVE BRAID WITH A SUPER SMOOTH, SUPER THIN COATING FOR QUIET AND EFFORTLESS CASTING
SPIDERWIRE.COM COMMON CVRS_0317.indd 3
2/13/17 11:38 AM
WHATEVER THE SEA THROWS AT YOU, STAND YOUR GROUND. BUILT FOR ALASKA, FIT FOR EVERYONE XTRATUF boots have been proven and tested in the unforgiving Alaskan seas. Now, that same toughness is available in the XTRATUF Performance Deck Boot. With a non-marking, slip-resistant Chevron outsole, these 100% waterproof boots are as tough as the elements.
Kryptek Pontus Kryptek Yeti
www.xtratuf.com © 2017 Honeywell International Inc.
COMMON CVRS_0317.indd 4
INTRODUCING THE NEW KRYPTEK ANKLE DECK BOOT
2/13/17 11:38 AM