UNICORN HUNTING INSHORE AFTER DARK
navigating peace of mind
THE IMPORTANCE OF BOAT INSURANCE
Embarking on the open water is an exhilarating experience, flled with the promise of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a weekend cruiser, safeguarding your vessel with proper insurance is not just a choice—it’s a necessity. Explore the reasons why every boat owner should prioritize boat insurance for a worry-free voyage.
Unpredictable waters
The open water can be unpredictable, with unexpected storms, collisions, or other potential accidents. Boat insurance can give you fnancial protection if there is damage to your vessel, providing coverage for repairs or replacement.
Damage and injury
Accidents on the water can result in damage to other boats, docks, or even injuries to passengers. Boat insurance offers liability coverage, which can pay for damages or injuries you’re liable for while boating, up to specifed limits, and lawsuit costs if you’re sued. This includes damage you cause to another watercraft or if someone on or near your boat is injured and you’re found to be legally responsible.
Theft and vandalism
Unfortunately, boat theft and vandalism are realities that boat owners face. Boat insurance has comprehensive and collision coverage that can protect you against events outside of your control, including theft and vandalism.
Incurred medical payments
Accidents on the water may lead to injuries for you or your passengers. Boat insurance offers a range of optional medical payments coverage limits, helping to cover medical expenses if you are in an accident or someone is hurt on your boat, regardless of fault.
Peace of mind for fnancing
If you fnanced the purchase of your boat, most lenders require insurance coverage to protect their investment. Having boat insurance not only fulflls these requirements but also gives you peace of mind knowing that your fnancial interests are safeguarded.
Navigational fexibility
Some water municipalities and marinas may require proof of insurance for docking or accessing certain areas. Boat insurance allows you the fexibility to explore different destinations without worrying about entry restrictions.
Emergency towing and assistance
Progressive boat insurance can include optional Sign & Glide® On-Water Towing coverage. If your boat is disabled or breaks down on the water, Sign & Glide® pays for on-water towing, jump starts, soft un-groundings, and fuel delivery.
Wreckage removal
If your boat sinks, Progressive boat insurance will cover the cost of removing your boat from the water (if removal is legally required).
Investing in boat insurance is not just about protecting a valuable asset; it’s about safeguarding the memories, experiences, and joy that come with your on-water adventures. Don’t let unforeseen circumstances disrupt your journey—navigate with confdence, knowing that Progressive boat insurance has you covered. Ensure a smooth and worry-free voyage, because when it comes to your boat, peace of mind is the ultimate luxury.
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THEHIGHS OFUNICOR HUNTING
Throughout chc year, the Florida KC)'S provide excclltnt billlish oppor1unitics.
Bycapt.QulnlynHaddon
Sailfish c.an be foulld year.round and are most reliably targeted in late autumn through the spring when they feast on ballyhoo at the reef.
Swordfishing is grc.1t any time ofthe year. as lcmgasM!3.lhcr accommodal('S!he l<>nsrnn l() the decpwa1cr JcdgcS. Tai:gcting them during tht:: day re<1uii:csdroppingabaitLothebottom.
�fariinfishi11gjsdoableduri11gsummer.butit$ certainlyJess thanreliable. 'Ihey a.-eoftenhooked as bycatch while fisltillg for the mahi or tuna on whichtheyarefeeding.
I recently had the pleasure of taking a trip solely targetingmarlinandswordfish.\Vehadtwo fishermen on board who were firs1 1liners with both.spl't'i<$. It wasintcro:,ting ,vatching them go 1hrough thebipolarswingsofbUlfishing. ·n1eywere
there LQ a$$i:.land learn, and I got lo watch them enjoy nnd suffer through thefull experience. Initially. there was opliini.sm as the su1\ rose a11d wedeployed ail elaboratetrolling spread. 1he setupmust haveseemedfantasticaltoanewcomer, with the giant lures.strange-looking teasers and lines everywhere. like we were captained by a coffoc fuclcdspider.Thedaywas )'Oung.1hcspread ,rasaworko(an,andthenc,,·bieshadnoreasonto doubt ourchances.
Frustrationsoo1lfollowed.Aswewerewtapping up marlin 1rollillg to head for the swordgrouods.
wepa.ss«1agorgeous weed linefull ofhma birds. It looked likeourbestchance... until the right rigger caught grnss. Upon• gentle rc1ricvc10dc.1rtheline,itpopf)OOthe rigger, foll1hroughthespreadam.lauempll-'<ll.Omate with the teaser al the worst time. We packed up inthemiddleof1hegiantflockof birdsthat mockedusforquitting.Ahh,disappointinent It was time co hii Lhe swordgrouncb and beginthecycleagain.Our nextelaboratesetup wo,dd drop to 1,500 feet.and the doe e)eS of optimismmadetheir nextappearance. 1hc dance belwccn doubt. lx)rcdom and forcedoprimismcontinued.a,,;ourfirs1bitedidn1l occuruntilafter4 p.m. It wasaheavyhit.a reelstopping, drag-pulling, set-up-the-harpoon type hit that had us giggling like children. El'eryone was re�1dy to t.1keon dutieswhen, JOO.feet from theweight, the rod tip popped up and everrone experiencedgut.wrenchingheartbreak.
On Lhc nc:ic1 drift, we hooked up again, and cvcrronequietlyheldtheirexcitement untilthetlsh hit the deck. l don't m.�d to cxplah\ the foe-ling in that Jlext moine11t, but with smiles and high fives a1J around > it was the 011e we wereall looking for. We tookhomesati.sfactio11.exhaustio11.andbigbags ofm<.".ll.
Hunting swimming unicorns is hands-down m)' favorite fishing. If youwant toexperiencethe emotional rollcrcoaS1cr of chasing the fish of a lifetime,givemeacallalSwce1 E'nul'Charters.
Capt, Quinl)'u Hmtdcm guides wit/1 Swed E'Nu/Clwrlers, Mnratliot1, Florida Keys. ww1�capt<1inqui11ly11.ccm1; <fi>captai11q11i11/y11; (504) 910�-12.
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TACTICS FOR DOG DAYS BASS 4
It’s hot. Te lakes and reservoirs are covered with jet skis, wake boats and party barges full of sun seekers.
Dog days conditions can be tough for bass fshing, but fsh settle into patterns this time of year that can lead to productive days on the water.
Finding cooler water is the key to catching bass when the surface temperatures reach uncomfortable levels, and there are several ways to do this.
Go Deep: Te huge schools of fsh that concentrate on ofshore ledges and river channel bends at many of our large reservoirs have already been beaten into submission by every angler with sonar by this time of year. You might still be able to pick a few out of the school with deep crankbaits, drop-shots or footballhead jigs, but sometimes it’s worth fnding less obvious fsh to target.
Tere are other areas that hold fsh. Tat 30-footwide shell bed of the main channel might not be covered with bass, but there will be some fsh there if there’s some current, and these bass see much fewer lures and are more willing to bite this time of year. Search with a crankbait, wiggle a football-head on the bottom or drag a big Carolina rigged worm over the shells and see what happens.
Cool-Water Tribs: A tributary stream feeding cooler water into the lake attracts baitfsh and bass. Fish ofen stage on points where a feeder creek enters the main body. Eliminate water quickly with crankbaits or spinnerbaits to see if there’s anyone home before
slowing down with a jig or a worm.
By CAM Staf
Extend the Night Bite: Bass do a lot of their feeding at night this time of year, and anglers can take advantage of this by fshing the frst couple hours of daylight.
Tis pattern will also show you that not every fsh in the lake goes deep. Shallow rocks and grass edges hold bluegill, shad, crayfsh and all sorts of other tasty critters. Start on top at or before dawn with a walking bait or popper and cover as much water as you can before the sun gets up. Tis is not really a numbers game, and the bites will be scattered, but it’s a lot of fun when a big fsh blows up your lure.
Fish the Shade: When the sun gets high and hot, you’ll fnd fsh hunkered down in the shade. Docks, laydowns, overhanging trees or matted vegetation all provide the shade bass and the things they eat look for. Bank shade is also where you’ll fnd bream beds where bass like to feed.
Skip a wacky rig up as far up under a dock as you can get it. Drop a jig into that blowdown. Work a frog over matted grass or punch through it with a heavy Texas rig. Cover water and pick apart those shady areas. It’s a fun style of fshing that can also be productive under less-than-perfect conditions.
For more bass tips, go to coastalanglermag.com.
Coleman Roberts caught his 9-pound, 4-ounce bass in July at Lake Istokpoga, Fla.
TREASURE FOUND!
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RUN-AND-GUN TROLLING Scout Weed Lines Quickly and Effectively
By Mark Ambert
With summer weed line formation, mahi become a favorite target for the “run and gun” method. A good way to quickly scout if anyone’s home is a modifed version of the troll. I have observed and adopted this method used by professional captains for mahi.
The Setup
Keep a couple of spinning rods rigged and ready with pitch baits that can be trolled. Te rig consists of a 7-foot medium-heavy spinning rod with a 6000-size spinning reel—preferably with a baitrunner setting.
If you’re not familiar with the baitrunner function, it is a free-spool setting that allows line to pull from the spool while the bail is engaged. When a fsh grabs your bait, it can take it without feeling resistance.
My favorite combo is a Penn Carnage III boat rod with a Shimano Tunnus reel. Spool up with 20-lb. mono and add a 40- or 50-lb., 4-foot fuorocarbon leader. Tie on a Gamakatsu 6/0 or 7/0 Octopus hook using a Palomar knot. Insert the hook under the chin of a fresh frozen, small- to medium-sized ballyhoo. Make sure the point of the hook exits directly between the eyes. I like a Squidnation Slammer 3-inch plastic chugger head
with the bait to produce more action.
Cast this behind the boat along a weed line while underway. Position it several yards past the last wakes from the prop wash, and slowly work the bait by twitching the rod tip while holding it above your head. Tis will cause the ballyhoo to skip like a feeing baitfsh. You can work two baits in this manner by staggering the distance. If nothing hits within a few minutes, move on.
Tis method is slower than traditional trolling, and it is deadly for locating feeding fsh on large, scattered weed patches. If you are using a baitrunner reel, allow the fsh to run a few seconds before setting the hook.
The Electric Alternate
An alternate method that’s ideal for long straight weed lines or rips is a more traditional trolling setup. I use the Piscifun Saltfow ofshore rod and a Kraken electric reel with battery pack for this type of trolling.
Te Saltfow is 8-foot, 3-inch rod with a sof tip. It has a unique line guide setup that eliminates rod twist under a load. Te Kraken electric reel is new to me this year and has already paid dividends.
beneft when constantly retrieving lures to clear weeds or move locations. A traditional ballyhoo rig with a teaser and bait spring is my choice for medium-speed trolling. A good premade rig is the Mahi Chaser by Trolling Pro Tackle.
Once you get a hook-up, get some fresh squid, jigs or live baits in the water and hang on. Te Mahi show is about to get started!
Mark Ambert, IG @marksgonefshing_™
Cast Lures in a Mitzi Tournament 17
LOBSTERING IN THE KEYS A FUN & FLAVORFUL ADVENTURE!
By A. deGruchy
If you’re craving the thrill of the hunt and the taste of fresh lobster, the Florida Keys are your paradise. Here’s a quick guide to help you fnd these delectable critters, catch them, and turn them into a simple, yet fancy meal. First things frst, you’ll need the right gear. Grab a tickle stick, to push lobsters out of their hiding spots, and a lobster net to scoop them up once they’re on the move. Snorkel gear is essential for getting up close and personal with these lobsters, and don’t forget gloves to protect your hands from sharp rocks and lobster spines. Lastly, a measuring device is required to make sure your catch is legal size. Tey are measured in carapace length, and it’s important to know how to measure
them before gathering them.
Now, let’s talk lobster hotspots. Spiny lobsters love to hide in crevices, under ledges, and around coral reefs. Te regular lobster season runs from August to March. Once you have your snorkeling gear, you can generally fnd them in as shallow as 6 feet deep. Keep an eye out for their long antennae sticking out from their hiding places, and then gently use your tickle stick to encourage them out before swifly scooping them up with your net. Teir behavior is to swim away, naturally, and spiny lobsters use their tail to swim backward. Make sure your net is in position to anticipate them swimming backward into your trap. Once they’re in it, it’s also important to close the
Repower Center
netting to prevent any slip ups and runaways.
Once you’ve got your catch, it’s time to enjoy. Te easiest way to prepare lobster is to grill them. Split the lobsters in half lengthwise, brush with a mixture of melted butter, garlic and a squeeze of lemon juice and grill them shell-side down until the meat is opaque and slightly charred. Serve with a side of melted butter for dipping, and you’ve got yourself a fancy feast.
So, gear up, dive in, and get ready to enjoy the freshest lobster you’ve ever tasted. Happy hunting!
Visit www.myfwc.com for more information and updates on Florida Spiny Lobster regulations.
LIGHT UP THE NIGHT
Tim Barefoot
Fishing under lights at night is a good thing to do 12 months out of the year, but it is especially good during the hot summer months, when daytime temperatures can make standing on the deck in the glaring sun less than appealing.
During the hottest days of the year, snook, trout and redfsh follow bait directly to bright light, like moths to the porch light. Being that I sell boat lifs for a living, I suggest installing the biggest brightest lights on your docks that you can. Some systems can be controlled remotely with an app on your phone.
To turn your dock into a fshing Mecca, you must learn to use existing facilities for maximum return on investment. You can also feed shrimp and minnows with cornmeal and keep them attracted with lights at night. Once you get the bait concentrated, you will have the fsh concentrated as well. For more information on this, check out my Youtube channel.
If you don’t have a dock, you can still light up the night with powerful and lightweight lithium battery spotlights or purpose-made fshing lights that run on your boat’s electrical system. Some of these are submersible. Turn the lights on and hang out for a few minutes. You’ll be amazed at how many baitfsh show
up.
I like an artifcial shrimp jig or live shrimp best. Live shrimp are the most efective bait out there, but I like artifcials because it limits the amount of tackle and hassle. A good technique is to drif down a series of lighted docks and cast to the lights. When you fnd fsh, concentrate on that area with repeated drifs.
A word of advice: Be quiet! Older and wiser snook or trout are not stupid. Use the trolling motor only when it’s needed and not at all when possible. In my humble opinion, fsh become wary to the sound of a trolling motor. Remain calm and make as little noise as possible on your drifs. Don’t play music, stomp around on the deck, talk loudly or slam cooler lids.
Te light attracts the fsh and catching them is up to you. Match the hatch by taking notice of the type and size of the bait you see. Tis might require casting smaller jigs or even small shrimp or baitfsh fies when the fsh get picky.
Tis is the perfect atmosphere for showing children how to catch fsh. Te visual aspect of this technique is very entertaining and educational. Check out my Youtube video
for a perfect example of fshing a well-lighted dock properly.
For more information, visit barefootcatsandtackle.com and check out his YouTube channel.
KISSIMMEE CHAIN FORECAST WE ARE HIRING! WANTED
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August is a month that I spend more time fishing spring-fed lakes in central Florida than I do fishing the Kissimmee Chain. Experience has taught me that fishing in spring-fed lakes in the summertime is more consistent and predictable than fishing in other lakes or river systems. Also, summertime draw downs on the Kissimmee Chain are a necessary evil when it comes to flood control, but it sure makes for about four months of hard fishing.
However, the Kissimmee River is a good place to fish during the draw down period. Below the first lock, I’ll fish the lily pad edges along the ledges. Weightless Senkos and Texas rig worms with a 3/16 rattle weight will definitely get a bass to bite. Below the second lock, I like Rebel Pop Rs and Strike King Square Bills on the outside bends.
If river fishing is not your thing, the Winter Haven Chain has a lot to offer bass and crappie anglers this time of the year. Key in on the flat pads with weightless Senkos and toads Texas rigged with a 1/8 oz Rattle weight. Burn them over the top of the pads and let the baits fall into the holes or the edges of the pads.
Crooked Lake in Babson Park is one hot ticket right now. Key in on the joint grass patches in eight to 12 feet of water. Fish weightless Senkos or ¼ ounce Blue Chrome rattle traps around the grassy patches. For larger bass, try jigging a Johnson Silver minnow tipped with a shad-colored fluke.
Clinch Lake in Frostproof is on fire in the early morning and late afternoon. Watermelon Red flukes, weightless, or June Bug U Vibe speed worms on a 3/16 ounce weight Texas rigged works well.
Lake Wales is probably one of the most underrated lakes in the area during summer. If you like fishing in open water and medium action spinning rods, this lake provides non-stop action! Shakey head jigs with a black finesse worm or a Ned rig in twenty feet of water will keep you setting the hook all day long.
Two other area lakes on my radar for summertime fishing are Lake Parker in Lakeland and Saddle Bag Lake in Lake Wales. These two lakes couldn’t be more different, but each is capable of producing monster bass year-round. I’ve done well on Lake Parker with Fire Tiger spinner baits tipped with Watermelon Seed fluke. Also, use white chatter baits with speed craws around the edges of the cover and Texas rigged sweet beavers in hematoma color with a ½ ounce weight in the lily pads.
Saddle Bag Lake is one of those lakes that the more I fish there, the better I like it. I’m starting to realize that this lake has a lot of secrets that I’m looking forward to figuring out!
As always…..GOOD FISHING! I’ll see you in September.
DAVE OCHS Back Water Fishing Adventures
T: 863-605-2181
CAPTAIN
LAKE PANASOFFKEE FORECAST
July was a great month for shellcrackers. They bedded early in the month on the new moon instead of the full moon. Limit catches of nice size fish were coming in. The summer bass pattern started up as well. Other than being a little warm the conditions have been great...
August should be another good summer month. The shellcrackers have been running a little late this year so look for some more bedding in August. If the repeat last month look for some new moon action but if not the full moon should produce some nice catches. Shell Point or the north end of the lake will be a good place to start but Don’t overlook the mouth of the Outlet. That is where the winning catch from the Pan Fish challenge came from!!! Red worms will be the bait of choice and fish them on the bottom.
The bass are schooling and chasing shad so anything top water and shiny should work well. Rapala’s, devils horse, pop-n-image, chatterbaits, buzz baits are local favorites this time of year. Fishing early and late will also be the best time to fish and to beat the heat as well.
It is the summer and it is Florida so don’t forget the sunscreen and plenty of water. Come out and give it a try and always report back and let us know how you did. We look forward to seeing you
JIM VEAL
Pana Vista Lodge | panavistalodge.com | 352-793-2061
AHARRIS CHAIN OF LAKES FORECAST
ugust is here and it usually brings the hottest days of the year. Both the weather and the bass bite has been very hot lately. Areas with any current from the afternoon breezes or running and moving water from our afternoon rains have been the key. The best bite has been when the sun is just starting to come up or the sky just starts to turn gray. Get out on the water by about 5 am and in most cases it will be worth it. Top water baits like the trusted devils horse, Pop-R or the plastic or hard or soft- bodied frogs have been producing explosive strikes from above average size bass. If you have not experienced a bass engulfing a top-water bait in heavy cover or just off the edge off the vegetation, then you should give it a try. Fishing top water baits in low light is about as exciting as it gets. Patience is a must as some times the fish will explode on your bait knocking it several feet without ever get the hook into their mouth. If you are fishing the frog, soft or hard you must drop your rod and allow the line to come tight before you set the hook. Often in the excitement we will set the hook to soon pulling offering away from the fish. Later in the day as the sun gets high, switch to flipping the deepest heavy Kissimmee grass and mats with black-blue creature baits or June-bug colored 7 or 8 inch plastic worms in areas where a breeze or wind is blowing in on. The larger deeper docks located all around the chain have been producing keeper bites later in the day as well, target docks with largest shaded areas. Pitch or skip your baits back under the structure where the most shade is and be ready. Once you get a bite or catch one make multiple casts or pitches to that dock, usually there are several fish on one dock.
The panfish and crappie bite has been a little slow but you can still catch them near the shoreline vegetation and scattered lilly-pad fields near Dead River, around the mouth of Haines Creek at both ends and around the northwest corner of Lake Eustis. Try red worms, crickets or grass shrimp for the panfish or jig tipped with a minnow for crappie. The deeper holes in big Lake Harris have been producing the best bites for crappie. Take a kid with you as they love catching the smaller panfish! Watch out for the afternoon thunderstorms and stay safe!
CENTRAL FLORIDA
In case you may not have gotten the notice about the weather here in Central Florida, it’s mighty dang hot! Thankfully, the early morning bass fishing bite is equally as hot.
It is simply a matter of getting out early and “listening” to the fish. Are the bass schooling and busting bait or do we have to work the grass lines to find the bait which will have bass around them. Each day is a process but while the patterns may differ, they are usually easy to figure out.
If people want an a shorter early-bird we 2.5 hour trips at a discounted rate on lakes all around Winter Haven. This allows people to get out and enjoy the incredible bass fishing that we are world famous for and still get back to the hotel or condo mid-morning and make it to the parks, beaches, or anything else the family wants to do for the rest of the day. Please call 855-3548433 for scheduling as these trips are limited in availability after our regular 4 or 6 hour trips are booked.
You can look at the solunar calendars or go out and check the pool deck at 0300 if you like but you’ll know what the fish are doing just looking out from the ramp when you launch.
Starting with the Winter Haven South Chain and many of the smaller lakes around town our approach each day depends upon the moon phase and nighttime weather conditions. A new moon and/or cloudy skies equal an excellent early morning topwater bite and conversely a clear full moon means fishing deeper and slower. For either situation you’ll rarely find me fishing shallower than 14’-16’ on most lakes and many times I’ll be out in
FLORIDA FORECAST
20’-30’ throwing a Pop-R or belly weighted Z-Man Jerk ShadZ. The bass just can’t resist the top water or the lifelike action of the ShadZ as it dances & darts on a slow flutter.
Having a handful of baits to cover all your bases is easy and you don’t need 38 rods on the deck to accomplish this feat. If you have a the afore mentioned Pop-R & Jerk ShadZ, a 3”-4” swimbait or grub on a 3/16oz jig head or a 1/4oz Z-Man Willow Vibe, and a deep diving jerkbait or crankbait you’re all set for action. I always prefer natural lighter colors in the spring-fed lakes with good visibility, whites/pearls, watermelon reds, smoke, and I carry chartreuse for an overcast low-light morning. You can look at the solunar calendars or go out and check the pool deck at 0300 if you like but you’ll know what the fish are doing just looking out from the ramp when you launch.
Moving over to Guy Harvey Outpost’s Camp Mack on the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes we’re facing a whole different world. Out here in Olde World Florida I like starting offshore over scattered shell beds with hydrilla or eel grass nearby. Ninety-nine percent of the time I’m starting with topwaters but carry a couple totally different options. I have a bigger black & gold Spook and a regular white Pop-R and will mix it up until I know the fish are chasing shad or shiners, and sometimes it’s a mix and both work equally well. Get your black & blue flipping baits ready for the pads and grass once the sun gets up higher after 0930-1000.
CAPT. SCOTT TAYLOR
855-FL-GUIDE (855-354-8433) or TMCGuideService.com, Senior Pro Guide for Camp Mack, a Guy Harvey Lodge, Marina & RV Resort. Official Guide for the Polk County Tourism Sports & Marketing Board, for more information please visit: VisitCentralFlorida.org
LAKE OKEECHOBEE FORECAST
August Fishing EMERSON
Fishing on Okeechobee has been best early in the mornings then again late afternoons after the temperatures cool off a bit and t-storms pass. The bass and bluegill fishing is what’s biting now so if you’re heading out fishing for bass you’ll want a top water lure; swim jig/swim bait; senkos or 8-10 inch worms; spinner bait; flukes; popping frogs.
Color patterns that have been producing bites are: white; june bug; red bug; tilapia; Okeechobee craw and black on cloudier days. Areas to pinpoint lately have been around any good-size blue gill beds; transitional spots/areas that the bream are moving in/out as the spawning continues throughout the summer months.
If you are seeking to catch a few crappie get a very early start in the morning, fish deep water areas like the Kissimmee River and Canals around bridge pilings; drop-offs; ledges, etc.. The bite can be slow at times but remember this is summer and really not crappie time of year until the fall months when water temperature starts cooling off.
For bluegill fishing, an ultra-light spinning outfit works best with 4-6 lb mono line, small split shot weight for some added distance to your cast, small bobber if you prefer and either red wrigglers or crickets works best. Bluegill are being caught in very shallow water and closer to the outer edge grass lines. Bluegills like a little harder bottom, with/without vegetation, what matters the most is the “right type of bottom”.
Shell crackers on the other hand like a little more sandier bottom and prefer some type of vegetation. A lot of times you’ll catch shellies and bluegills in the same area. Around bream beds you’ll also catch Mayan cichlid’s which is everywhere and they are aggressive and harass the bream when they are on the beds. I keep the cichlid’s and give them away at the boat ramp. We need to cut the cichlid population down and I hear they’re great to eat.
Areas to fish for bass are: Tin house; 2nd and 3rd points; parts of Kings Bar and Grassy; Taylor and J&S canals, especially J & S this time of year can be great, the canal has lots of humps, rock piles, etc. Parts of Indian Praire; Horse/Dyess Ditch; parts of the Monkey box and Observation Shoal and North/West side of Dupree Bar.
Please use extreme caution when boating, the water level is low and lots of areas of the lake are a hard cap coral rock bottom which is not lower unit friendly.
Want to get in on the early bass and crappie bite, now is the time to book your fun filled and productive day fishing Lake Okeechobee.
You can call me at 863-228-7263 and be sure to check out my webpage where you’ll find rates; hotel recommendations; purchase fishing licenses; what to bring; current customer pictures with their catches and etc.
A big shout out to my sponsors: Mercury Marine; Toho Marine; Lews; Real Magic; Mid-South Tackle; BnM Poles; G-Loomis; Bullet Weights; Gill; Navionics and Rapala.
INSHORE SALTWATER FORECAST
Scallop season is here! Pasco county has 40 days this year. The season starts July 10th and runs through August 18th. Levy, Citrus and Hernando counties season starts July 1 and runs through September 24.
Welcome to August; the hottest month of the year! The heat will be intense this month, especially the days with no wind. Make sure you pack plenty of water. Do yourself a favor and don’t wait to drink water the day of. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water everyday so that you are hydrated before your fishing trip.
August will bring in a lot of redfish. The early-morning bite will be best on an incoming tide and that will bring fresh oxygen to the water. I look for schooling mullet and moving water around points, oyster bars, and mangrove shorelines that have deep water close by. These fish will stage with their face in the current, waiting for food to come to them. Keep this in mind when you’re approaching a mangrove shoreline. Make sure you cast up-current using a float with live shrimp, and let it drift as close to the mangroves as possible.
I like to look for mangroves that have grown out and create shade underneath. If you can’t get live shrimp, some other options are pinfish, greenbacks, or artificial. Another great tactic is to cut ladyfish. I like to use a 1/4 ounce jig head and run the hook through one time.
And of course, you can use the classic fish finding rig or just a circle hook. Toss whichever rig you choose with a cut piece of ladyfish about an inch wide under the mangrove shoreline and let it soak. There will be plenty of pinfish that will bite your cut ladyfish, but that will also get the attention of bigger predators.
Redfish are not alone under the shaded high water mangrove shoreline. There are plenty of snook, snapper, Jack Crevalle, and even some sheepshead. Whichever fish you hook up to make sure you have your rod tip low to the water and pull the fish away from the mangroves.
The outer part of the mangroves that hangover don’t grow from the ground up, they’re merely hanging over like a shade tree. If you’re fighting the fish with your rod tip up, you will surely get tangled in the mangroves.
One last thing, snook are still catch & release until September 1st, 2024. Make sure when releasing your fish that you help revive it by holding it face-first in the current and letting the water flow into the gills. You’ll know when the fish is ready because it will kick off in your hands.
Be safe, God bless and thank you for all of your support!
CAPTAIN BRENNON KIRBY
863-409-0540 | KirbysKatch.com
BRAGBOARD
For a chance to be featured on the Bragboard, upload your high-quality photos (at least 1MB) along with the details at: WWW.COASTALANGLERMAG.COM
This young man from NY landed a nice Winter Haven bass on a trip down here to Florida.
Bruce Doolittle Sr. caught a pink-tagged bass – FWC’s TrophyCatch promotion
Bryson, Bree and Joe with a couple of redfish and a trout
Daniel Monahan - 8 lbs. 5 oz. –FWC’s TrophyCatch promotion
Betty Fromme
Casey Bolcar with a 28 1/2” Redfish
Returns to Orlando Sept. 5-7
Surf Expo, the premier watersports and coastal lifestyle tradeshow, returns to the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla., from Sept. 5-7, 2024. Held in the West Concourse, the September event features an expansive selection of exhibiting brands and an exciting lineup of events and networking opportunities.
“We are thrilled about the array of exhibitors that will be at our upcoming September event,” said Surf Expo Show Director Roy Turner. “From the established major brands to the next wave and start-ups, retailers will be able to meet face-to-face with key players and fnd the next new.”
to the preservation of our environment and coastal waterways.
“Surf Expo allows retailers to preview styles from fshing and marine products, top surf brands, hard goods, apparel, footwear, swimwear, boutique fashions, and souvenirs,” adds Turner.
Retailers attend Surf Expo to stock their shelves for adventures on or near the water and fnd the gear and goods to keep customers coming back for more. Whether it is surfng, paddling, fshing, hiking, camping on the beach, wake surfng, tubing or simply soaking up the sun, Surf Expo has everything needed to cater to customers with a passion for waterborne thrills, outdoor adventure or just the sun-loving beach vacationer.
Te Shoreline category at Surf Expo is the hub for brands that specialize in inshore and ofshore apparel and accessory products; sportswear, technical apparel and gear, footwear, outerwear and hardgoods as well as games and accessories to transition from a day on the water to stretching out on land. Tis helps target businesses associated with outdoor amenities and recreation found in lake and beach towns nationwide and ofers crossover opportunities for buyers and manufacturers alike.
Te Surf Expo show foor is organized by product category with complementing cross-selling categories in adjacent aisles making it easy for retailers to navigate so they can easily discover the newest brands and products in person, all while making purchasing decisions.
Chris McCotter from Lake Anna Outftters, Virginia, refects, “As frst-time attendees, we did not know what to expect beyond a strong recommendation to attend from a supplier. Te show was exactly what we needed to take our shop to the next level with the merchandise and brands we wanted to stock.”
A wide range of both returning and new exhibitors will be represented that cater to the watersports, coastal life and outdoor industry such as; ORCA Coolers, GCI Outdoor, Teva, Xtratuf, POP Board Co., Salt Life, Hurley, CHUMS, Salty Crew, Captain Fin, Dark Seas, Howler Brothers, Rip Curl, SUNSKI, Deep Blue Gear, Fish Hippie, Jetty, Hook & Tackle, O’Neill, Reel Skipper, I-SEA Sunglasses, Chubbies, Vissla, Tommy Bahama, DIFF Eyewear, Katin, Outerknown, Free Fly Apparel and many more.
In September, Surf Expo will feature a full schedule including daily fashion shows, retailer learning labs, industry networking events, happy hours and parties.
For more information about the show visit www.surfexpo.com.
50,000 Plus Anglers Strong Promoting TakeAction Initiatives For Preserving Our Fisheries And Supporting Our Community.
At 18’2” in length and with a 70” beam, the Mosquito is a very capable hull for many situations – however it’s designed to do one thing with absolute perfection: silently stalk inshore game fsh in the shallowest coastal waters.
BUST A GULF COAST SCALLOP REPORT
Scallop season is underway for most of Florida’s Gulf Coast, and the reports we are getting so far are mixed—but mostly good—with some areas experiencing outstanding scalloping in terms of numbers, size and water conditions.
Scallops are regionally managed by the state, so diferent zones along the Gulf Coast have diferent seasons, with most remaining open well into September. Tere’s still plenty of time, plenty of scallops and plenty of places to go if you’re interested in an underwater egg hunt. Keep in mind, weather and water conditions can change quickly, and it can dramatically change the prospects for fnding bay scallops. Plan your trip accordingly.
Starting down south in Pasco County, the Anclote River area is apparently on fre this summer. Following a mediocre season last year, we’re hearing people rave about quick limits and good-sized scallops coming from shallow water. Te season opened July 10 in the Pasco Zone, and early on at least one person called it the best scalloping she’s ever experienced. Tese are big scallops, too, and we’ve heard talk of throwing back legal-sized scallops to fnd bigger ones. In mid-July, the shells were in as little as 4 feet of water, and with such a good early season, there should be some lef up until the season closes Aug. 16.
Just to the north, Hernando County scallopers were of to a slow start, but a little farther up the coast, the Crystal River to Homosassa area was very productive. We’re hearing reports of scads of scallops in as little as 3 feet, with a majority of boats concentrating in the 7-foot depths. Te size has been good, and it has apparently been difcult to fnd an undersized shell. With good weather and water conditions, good scalloping should hopefully last until the season closes Sept. 24.
We are also hearing good things farther north out of Keaton Beach and Steinhatchee, where the scallops are apparently very thick and close, although they might be trending smaller this year depending on your location. Limits in an hour or less were reported, with scallops hanging out in grass at 3- to 6-foot depths. Te Fenholloway-Suwannee River Zone opened June 15 and will close on Labor Day.
In the big bend, reports have not been great out of the St. Marks area, where heavy freshwater infux, low salinity and poor clarity are being blamed for scarce fnds during the early season. Some are pointing to better days ahead in late summer. As wind and water conditions change, scallops holed up in the 15-foot depths sometimes shif closer in, where they are easier to fnd. Te Franklin-NW Taylor County Zone remains open until Sept. 24.
Finally, over to Gulf County and Port St. Joe, the season opens Aug. 16 and runs through Sept. 24. Tere’s nothing yet to report, but historically this zone has been a good late-season option for grass fats that haven’t been picked over yet.
For seasons and regulations, go to MyFWC.com.
Commercial Gear for Anglers!
on high alert, and the noises of the day silenced, the bites can be startling and give the impression that the fsh is larger than it is. Tat’s part of the excitement of a topwater bite! I only use this tactic in areas I know well, for safety reasons, of course.
I know wading isn’t for everyone, and night wading is for even fewer anglers, but there are other methods. Fishing from a dock, boat or kayak are all good options. Focusing on dock lights, causeway lights and lighted piers can provide excellent fshing. Many canal homes have lights, both underwater and above the surface, that attract baitfsh, which attract the gamefsh we target. I’d say trout are the most prolifc, but reds and snook can be found mixed in with trout if you have them in your area. I like to target these areas with smaller lures, either a sof-plastic rattling paddletail or a small, hard, lipped bait with or without rattles. I prefer natural colors in some shade of white or clear with some silver mixed in.
I also enjoy fshing granite jetties at night. Setting up for this is a little more work but can yield terrifc results. When jetty fshing, I bring a generator and two 1,500-watt stage lights. Tese areas typically have more current, so my hard-lipped lures may be slightly larger, but I still go with the smallest lure I can work properly in the current. I stick with the same colors as mentioned earlier. Te channel and surf side of the rocks can both be productive depending on the tide, water clarity and bait. I recommend pointing one light in each direction until you determine which area has the best conditions.
Fishing at night brings new challenges, but it can ofer some of the best catches of the summer. If you decide to give one of these three methods a try, remember safety frst and don’t fsh alone. Enjoy some cooler times on the water and be safe.
Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures®, and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.
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STUD AJ IS A SOUTH CAROLINA RECORD!
Fishing out of Murrells Inlet on May 23, angler James Carroll battled in a 129-pound amberjack that is a new South Carolina state record. Here is the story in Carroll’s own words:
We set out from Murrells Inlet, S.C. at the crack of dawn, heading ofshore to the Winyah Scarp area, about 60 miles out. Our goal was to catch some mahi or wahoo. Afer a few hours of trolling along a weed line and the ledge without success, we decided to move closer in and try bottom fshing.
We relocated to a spot about 50 miles ofshore in 100 feet of water. I switched to a Connley Fishing kingfsh rod paired with a Penn Fathom 40, rigged with 80-lb. Momoi Diamond Braid and a two-hook bottom setup.
At this location, we caught vermilion snapper, black sea bass, grunts and porgies, sometimes two at a time. It was a productive day. I began waiting afer getting a bite, hoping to hook a second fsh. While doing this, something big hit the line without getting hooked.
Finally, I hooked a monster fsh. Afer about 45 minutes of fghting, I told my great friend and captain of the Liberty Call, Gordon Jobe, to put the boat in gear to help bring the fsh up in the water column. Around the one-hour mark, we landed what turned out to be a South Carolina state record greater amberjack.
Using a Garmin InReach, we contacted friends onshore to check the state record weight for South Carolina. Tey replied with 123 lbs. We knew we had surpassed that mark but had to wait a few hours to confrm.
Back at the dock, we went to Seven Seas Seafood Market in Murrells Inlet, S.C., to weigh the fsh on their certifed scales. Te fsh weighed in at 129 lbs. and measured 69 inches in length. Afer certifcation by Kris Reynolds, of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, the crew at Seven Seas processed the fsh for me.
For more giant fsh, go to coastalanglermag.com
Throw Yourself a Bone
The very best hunting knives possess a perfect balance of form and function. They’re carefully constructed from fine materials, but also have that little something extra to connect the owner with nature. If you’re on the hunt for a knife that combines impeccable craftsmanship with a sense of wonder, the $79 Huntsman Blade is the trophy you’re looking for.
The blade is full tang, meaning it doesn’t stop at the handle but extends to the length of the grip for the ultimate in strength. The blade is made from 420 surgical steel, famed for its sharpness and its resistance to corrosion.
The handle is made from genuine natural bone, and features decorative wood spacers and a hand-carved motif of two overlapping feathers— a reminder for you to respect and connect with the natural world.
This fusion of substance and style can garner a high price tag out in the marketplace. In fact, we found full tang, stainless steel blades with bone handles in excess of $2,000. Well, that won’t cut it around here. We have mastered the hunt for the best deal, and in turn pass the spoils on to our customers.
But we don’t stop there. While supplies last, we’ll include a pair of $99 8x21 power compact binoculars and a genuine leather sheath FREE when you purchase the Huntsman Blade
Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. Feel the knife in your hands, wear it on your hip, inspect the impeccable craftsmanship. If you don’t feel like we cut you a fair deal, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the item price. Limited Reserves. A deal like this won’t last long. We have only 1120 Huntsman Blades for this ad only. Don’t let this beauty slip through your fingers. Call today!
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• 12” overall length; 6 1/2” stainless steel full tang blade • Genuine bone handle with brass hand guard & bolsters • Includes genuine leather sheath
