Coastal Angler Magazine | February 2025 | Mississippi Gulf Coast Edition

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THE IMPORTANCE OF BOAT INSURANCE

Embarking on the open water is an exhilarating experience, flled with the promise of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a weekend cruiser, protecting your vessel with proper insurance is not just a choice—it’s a necessity. Explore the reasons why every boat owner should prioritize boat insurance for a worry-free voyage.

Unpredictable waters

The open water can be unpredictable, with unexpected storms, collisions, or other potential accidents. Boat insurance can give you fnancial protection if there is damage to your vessel, providing coverage for repairs or replacement.

Damage and injury

Accidents on the water can result in damage to other boats, docks, or even injuries to passengers. Boat insurance offers liability coverage, which can pay for damages or injuries you’re liable for while boating, up to specifed limits, and lawsuit costs if you’re sued. This includes damage you cause to another watercraft or if someone on or near your boat is injured and you’re found to be legally responsible.

Theft and vandalism

Unfortunately, boat theft and vandalism are realities that boat owners face. Boat insurance has comprehensive and collision coverage that can protect you against events outside of your control, including theft and vandalism.

Incurred medical payments

Accidents on the water may lead to injuries for you or your passengers. Boat insurance offers a range of optional medical payments coverage limits, helping to cover medical expenses if you are in an accident or someone is hurt on your boat, regardless of fault.

Peace of mind for fnancing

If you fnanced the purchase of your boat, most lenders require insurance coverage to protect their investment. Having boat insurance not only fulflls these requirements but also gives you peace of mind knowing that your fnancial interests are safeguarded.

Navigational fexibility

Some water municipalities and marinas may require proof of insurance for docking or accessing certain areas. Boat insurance allows you the fexibility to explore different destinations without worrying about entry restrictions.

Emergency towing and assistance

Progressive boat insurance can include optional Sign & Glide® On-Water Towing coverage. If your boat is disabled or breaks down on the water, Sign & Glide® pays for on-water towing, jump starts, soft un-groundings, and fuel delivery.

Wreckage removal

If your boat sinks, Progressive boat insurance will cover the cost of removing your boat from the water (if removal is legally required).

Investing in boat insurance is not just about protecting a valuable asset; it’s about safeguarding the memories, experiences, and joy that come with your on-water adventures. Don’t let unforeseen circumstances disrupt your journey—navigate with confdence, knowing that Progressive boat insurance has you covered. Ensure a smooth and worry-free voyage, because when it comes to your boat, peace of mind is the ultimate luxury.

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ALERT! LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD!

It looks like our friends at NOAA are at it again. !is time releasing its Amendment 59 on January 14 to the management plan of the SnapperGrouper Fishery of the South Atlantic with its recommendation to completely close down bottom shing for three months each year to protect what they believe is an over shed snapper and grouper population.

!ere has been quite a bit of confusion and concern since NOAA released its radical view. A depleted red snapper stock does not seem to be supported by current stock data, but rather by admittedly awed and outdated data that continues to be used to support the need for closures. Anglers have categorically and unanimously rejected this thesis based on NOAA’s admittedly awed data.

NOAA’s position is de nitely not supported by Florida’s Fish & Wildlife Commission (FWC), whose Chairman Rodney Barreto states, “Atlantic red snapper is truly at a crossroads. !e State of Florida has proven time and time again that it understands our shermen and sheries better and how to be responsible stewards of our sheries while maintaining access for the people. Our shermen and sheries deserve better, and FWC will ght on multiple fronts to li$ up our anglers and communities and end this federal bureaucratic nonsense.”

During the proposed closures of Amendment 59, all recreational hookand-line shing (including trolling) would be prohibited from December through February each year in federal waters from Cape Canaveral to the Florida / Georgia border. !e 55 species to be closed include snappers, groupers, jacks, sea basses, porgies and trigger sh, as well as hog sh, tile sh and grunts.

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NOAA Fisheries notes that the proposed bottom shing closure is projected to yield a recreational harvest season for Atlantic red snapper of ve to nine days per year, up from a single day in 2024 and two days in 2023.

“A three-month bottom shing closure for 55 species of reef sh in exchange for ve to nine days of red snapper season is not a good trade,” said Martha Guyas, Southeast Fisheries Policy Director for the American Sport shing Associatitom (ASA). “Given NOAA Fisheries’ recognition that red snapper is no longer over shed or undergoing over shing, an increase in the recreational season is certainly warranted. However, it is absurd to simultaneously propose drastic closures.”

In Amendment 59, NOAA Fisheries additionally recommends changing how over shing is measured for red snapper in recognition of the growth of the shery and recent above average recruitment.

While the ASA says that removing the “over shed” and “undergoing over shing” designations for red snapper is a positive step, NOAA Fisheries’ proposed bottom shing closure is based on notoriously unreliable estimates of sh released by recreational anglers.

“!e American Sport shing Association is deeply disappointed to see NOAA Fisheries propose this drastic action, which may cause irreparable economic damage to the coastal communities and businesses that rely on recreational shing, as well as recreational shing manufacturers and suppliers across the country,” added Guyas.

A bill by Florida Congressman John Rutherford and Senator Rick Scott was introduced on January 16 in Congress to remove NOAA’s authority on these matters based on NOAA’s awed data. !e bill if passed would require that the issue of a closure would be postponed until more reliable data can be provided. It appears that NOAA’s rush to establish the three-month closure was motivated by a change of administration in Washington. !is move represents politics at its worst and we salute Senators Rutherford and Scott for their timely e ort to prevent this backroom move by NOAA.

What’s at stake here is nothing short of recreational anglers losing their right to sh vis-a-vis the federal government’s incursion into state shery issues, and unless we come together in opposition to these extreme regulations we will have allowed a group of non-anglers to eliminate our right to sh.

Let your voice be heard! Your voice, your opinion is needed if this amendment is to be defeated. !e next opportunities for voicing your opposition to this proposal in person and exercising your right to protest governmental decisions that you disagree with will be held at the following locations:

• February 5, 2025, 4-8 p.m.

Hilton Garden Inn Charleston Airport 5265 International Blvd., North Charleston, SC 29418; 843-308-9330

• February 6, 2025; 4-8 p.m.

!e Crystal Coast Civic Center 3505 Arendell St., Morehead City, NC 28557; 252-247-3883

• February 24, 2025; 4-8 p.m.

Crowne Plaza Jacksonville Airport 14670 Duval Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32218; 904-741-4404

• February 25, 2025; 4-8 p.m.

Hilton Cocoa Beach 1550 N. Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach, FL 32931; 321-613-9023

• March 5, 2025; 1 p.m. presentation/4 p.m. public comment Villa By the Sea 1175 Beachview Drive N., Jekyll Island, GA 31527; 912-635-2521

Public comments can also be submitted online on or before March 17. To submit yours, visit www.federalregister.gov and search for document number 2025-00552.

FindingTroutBrown in the Great Smoky Mountains

Ever since I was young, the legendary big brown trout of the Smokies have been calling to me. I remember my early encounters with them like it was yesterday. That was over 30 years ago. A lot has changed with fishing in the Park since then, but there are still plenty of large brown trout to be caught.

While legendary Abrams Creek no longer seems to contain brown trout, Little River on the Tennessee side, and the Oconaluftee River, Deep Creek, and Hazel Creek on the North Carolina side are still prime brown trout waters. There are plenty of others too if you’re into exploring.

The spring hatches from late February through

May into early June are as good a time as any to try and catch a big brown. Of course, what better way to catch a big fish than on a dry fly? My first quality brown trout all those many years ago was somewhere on lower Little River downstream of the Sinks. It fell for a large yellow Stimulator that undoubtedly looked a lot like the golden stoneflies that were hatching. Now, the draw of potentially catching a giant on a dry fly keeps me coming back to fish the spring hatches such as the Quill Gordons and little Yellow Sallies.

While catching a big brown on a dry fly is the holy grail, the more realistic approach for fly anglers is to nymph or fish streamers. Big stonefly nymphs

are a favorite, but large brown trout can be caught on smaller patterns like pheasant tail nymphs as well. The key is getting the flies to the fish. That requires either tungsten beads or split shot or both.

For streamer anglers, Smoky Mountain brown trout eat sculpins and other bait fish, smaller trout, and crawdads. Just remember that Park regulations require single hook artificial lures and flies only, so no multi-hook articulated streamers. I generally prefer to fish weighted streamers on a floating line, but there are scenarios where sink tip lines can be helpful as well.

Sight fishing is often the best way to catch a trophy simply because it significantly ups your odds if you are fishing over a large fish. While there are decent numbers of big browns around, simply blind casting will result in lots of wasted casts. When sight fishing, all of your casts are productive as long as you don’t spook the fish.

Speaking of spooking fish, Smoky Mountain brown trout are notoriously skittish. Dress in earth tones to blend in with your surroundings, move softly and methodically, and limit unnecessary casting if you hope to find a trophy brown trout. Finally, don’t expect to just show up and catch a big one your first time out. These large brown trout can be difficult, requiring lots of patience. As I always say, you have to put your time in on the water. When you do catch one of these special fish, release them for the next angler to enjoy.

David Knapp is a fly fishing guide who owns Trout Zone Anglers, LLC, covering waters in middle and east Tennessee and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Learn more at www.troutzoneanglers.com.

REDFISH

A GREAT YEAR-ROUND FISH TO TARGET

Red sh, also known as red drum, are a favorite among anglers for their adaptability, ght, and availability throughout the year. Whether you’re shing along the Gulf Coast or the Atlantic seaboard, red sh provide anglers with a rewarding and exciting experience, no matter the season.

One of the reasons red sh are so popular is their widespread distribution. !ey inhabit coastal waters from Texas to Florida and as far north as Massachusetts. !eir adaptability to di erent environments, including shallow ats, brackish estuaries, and deeper o shore waters, ensures that anglers can nd them almost anywhere. !is accessibility makes them an ideal target for anglers of all skill levels, whether you’re shing from a kayak, wading, or casting from a boat.

FISHING IS BETTER IN A C-HAWK

Red sh exhibit predictable seasonal behaviors, making them easier to target year-round. In the spring and summer, they o$en frequent shallow ats and grass beds, where they can be seen tailing as they feed on crabs and shrimp. During the fall, red sh school up in larger numbers, o$en forming massive “bull red” gatherings in preparation for spawning. Winter months see them moving into deeper, warmer waters, such as rivers and channels, but they remain highly catchable with the right approach. Understanding these seasonal patterns allows anglers to adjust their strategies and consistently nd success. Another reason red sh are so appealing is the variety of techniques that can be used to target them. Sight shing on shallow ats with arti cial lures or ies is an exhilarating experience, requiring precision and patience. For those who prefer bait shing, cut mullet, live shrimp, or blue crabs are irresistible to red sh. Anglers can also troll or jig for red sh in deeper waters, particularly during the winter months. !is versatility ensures that red sh shing never gets monotonous.

Red sh are renowned for their tenacity and strength, o ering anglers an adrenaline-pumping ght. Even smaller red sh, o$en referred to as “puppy drum,” put up a spirited battle on light tackle. Larger specimens, or “bull reds,” can test the skills and endurance of even the most experienced anglers. !eir powerful runs and head-shaking resistance make every hookup a memorable experience.

While many anglers practice catch-and-release, particularly with larger red sh, smaller slot-sized red sh make for excellent table fare. !eir mild, aky meat is perfect for a variety of preparations, from blackened llets to sh tacos. !is dual appeal—as both a sport sh and a food sh—adds to their year-round popularity.

Red sh populations are thriving thanks to successful conservation e orts. Strict regulations, such as slot limits and bag restrictions, have helped maintain healthy stocks. Anglers targeting red sh can do so with con dence, knowing that their e orts support sustainable shing practices.

Red sh o er a unique combination of accessibility, adaptability, and excitement, making them a top-tier choice for anglers year-round. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, targeting red sh provides an opportunity to hone your skills, enjoy thrilling battles, and, if desired, bring home a delicious meal. With their consistent availability and dynamic shing opportunities, it’s no wonder red sh remain a beloved species among anglers everywhere.

mirrOdine Madness!

HeadingYOU CAN ALSO VISIT OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL, WHERE WE HAVE SEVERAL VIDEOS GOING IN DEPTH ABOUT THESE RIGS AND SETUPS

into January, there are few lures that will out produce a Mirr0lure 17MR MirrOdine! This is a lure that I have used in the past to trigger strikes when nothing else would. In late winter our estuaries begin to get cloudy and dirty with all the rain and negative tides. This is where a Mirrodine shines! The flashy finish, mixed with the enticing rattles of a mirrodine has all the elements needed to trigger strikes in dirty water. There are two types of Mirrodines that I keep in my box at all times, these are the 17MR and the 18MR. The 17MR is a suspending twitch bait that is meant to be fished shallow, I fish these in 3-5 feet of water. The 18 MR is a sinking twitch bait that is meant to be fished a little deeper, I fish these in anything deeper than 6 feet. These two lures are all I need to cover a wide range of depths and feeding zones.

I like to fish these lures on a 7’ Med Light, Moderate fast action rod, paired with 10-pound braid connected to 10-pound fluorocarbon leader. The 10-pound line allows little drag to be placed on the lure and gives it the most life-like action while twitching this lure. When retrieving these twitch baits, I use a twitch… twitch… pause cadence. When the bite is slow or the water is dirty, my pause could be as long as 3-5 seconds. If I have cleaner water and the bite is good, my pause will be as short as a fraction of a second. I will continue to adjust my pause until I find a cadence that the fish are triggered by.

We have a ton of videos using Mirrodines and other lures on our YouTube channel “Southern Salt Kayak Fishing” Be sure to head over there and give us a follow as well as on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Until next tight lines and stay safe!

Shimano Ocea Jigger

Boasting Shimano’s Infinity Drive technology, Ocea Jigger offers paramount cranking power by reducing friction between the pinion gear and spool shaft, greatly improving rotational torque. Combined with MicroModule gearing and X-Protect, anglers will experience unmatched gear feeling, a lifetime of dependability and all-day jigging ease and comfort.

The perfect reel for Slow Pitch Jigging.

FISHIN’ IN FEBRUARY

Historically, February is probably one of the coldest months we fish in down here in south Mississippi. Yes, there are years where it is 60 and 70°, and there are other years where we have freezing temperatures. More often than not, we will be fishing in the cold weather. That does not mean we will be fishing any less, you just want to be smart and be safe.

Just plan on fishing the warmest part of the day, layer up, and keep a very close watch on your tides. If you are fishing in stiff north or Northwest winds, sometimes they will be stronger than the tides so don’t take any chances fishing in skinny water.

There is one benefit to the ultra low water this month, and that is scouting. I actually enjoy looking around in the Bayou’s and the ditches when the water is several feet below normal low tide. These are the days you can find the little shell bottoms, trenches, and other structures. This work will pay off greatly in the coming months.

We will mainly be targeting sheepheads and redfish all month. The majority of our sheep and fishing will be targeting structure. Basically anything holding barnacles or shells is definitely worth a cast. Bridges, oyster reefs, Rex, should all be holding tasty “bay snapper” this month. Live shrimp, fiddler, crabs, or fresh dead shrimp work very well. Fish, as close as you can to the structures and up current back fishing into the structure is a great place to start. Bring plenty of hooks, swivels, and varying sizes of lead. If you are not losing a hook every once in a while, you’re probably not fishing close enough to the structure.

Hopefully, you will encounter a few red fish while sheepshead fishing. However, some of the most fun to be had this month are on those sunny, calm days deep inside the marsh. As the temperatures warm, and the redfish come out into the ponds, it is a sight fisherman‘s paradise. Just stay quiet,

keep the wind in your face and the sun at your back to watch for those tailing reds in the shallow water. Once you find them, don’t aim for the fish, rather lead them, and drag the bait in front of their face.

Watch your tides, stay warm, have fun and be safe

Faith - Family - Freedom

AFTCO Apparel & Fishing Gear - Costa Del Mar

Offshore & Inshore Saltwater Tackle- Shimano

Momoi- Rod Repair- MS Fishing Licenses

Marine & Boat Supplies

Ice-Bait-Drinks-Snacks

Fuel (diesel, 89 Octane & non ethanol)

Shimano Vanford A

Continuing a legacy of pursuing reduced weight, lower start-up inertia and enhanced sensitivity, the Shimano Vanford A elevates the MagnumLite lineup of spinning reels. An MGL Rotor highlights the all-new Vanford A to provide anglers with heightened performance when employing “start-and-stop” nesse bass techniques or when needing quick hook-setting execution. Combined with the lightweight CI4+ body, the Vanford’s low startup inertia enables anglers to maintain complete control using tactics requiring immediate reel action to keep the lure within the strike zone, enabling them to adjust cadence based on sh behavior. Equipped with In nityXross technology — a re ned gear design that enhances winding e ciency and provides supremely smooth retrievals — o ers heightened control when nesse shing, enabling delicate presentations and precise lure manipulation. Shimano also incorporated In nity Drive technology to reduce contact between the spool sha and pinion gear to enhance smoothness and e ciency during retrieval. Merging the smooth performance of felt with the wear resistance of carbon, DuraCross drag technology increases drag durability, providing con dence when battling big sh. e

All New Shimano Vanford A is the premier reel or nesse shing anglers.

Mississippi Kitchen Delights Southern Gumbo

Gumbo is one of those dishes that can be prepared 100 different ways. Every family along the MS Gulf Coast, and beyond, has their special way of preparing the roux, the stock, and the other ingredients that fill their gumbo pot. Many of these recipes and traditions have been passed down through generations. Century long feuds have been waged over whether or not tomatoes belong in gumbo, or whether or not you serve the potato salad IN the gumbo, or on the side. I am not here to settle these debates, nor am I here to say this is the only way to prepare gumbo. I am here to say this is how I prepare my gumbo!

Roux

1 cup of unsalted butter or vegetable oil

1 cup of all purpose flour

Copious amounts of elbow grease

Stock

2 gallons of water

One whole smoked chicken

The tops of 4 bell peppers, one red, one yellow, one orange, one green

The root end of a bunch of celery, along with the leafy tops of the stalks

4 or 5 cut up carrots

4 or5 whole garlic cloves

2 purple onions peeled and halved

2 or 3 tablespoons of Kosher Salt

Protein

The meat of one whole chicken, smoked, boiled,  deboned, & shredded

One pound of Cajun sausage

2 pounds of blue crab claw meat, or lump if you’re bougee

2 or 3 whole boiled crabs, cleaned and halved

I rub the whole chicken down with Compass Point Blend “Creole” seasoning. I then spatchcock the chicken and smoke it at 250 degrees, breasts up, for 2- 3 hours. I place a pan pf water and the innards from the chicken on the rack directly below. This pan will catch all of the delicious drippings as the chicken is smoked and the fat renders. The pan of chicken juices and tid bits will be added to my stock, along with the whole chicken and veggies. I then boil the stock for 3-4 hours. The stock is then strained and poured into my gumbo pot.  You do not have to smoke the chicken, but you will be amazed at the added layer of flavor that smoke brings to the dish!

For the roux I start with 1 cup of oil, or unsalted butter, in a cast iron skillet on low heat. I then mix in one cup of all-purpose flour and stir until the lumps are gone and I have a good consistency. It is highly recommended that you use a wooden spoon for stirring the roux; I prefer a square one with a straight edge. I never stop stirring, constantly scraping the bottom and keeping that roux from sticking and burning. This process is a labor of love and is one of the things that makes gumbo so special. There are many ways to make a roux, I choose to keep it simple and stick to the method used for generations. Once it has reached the color you desire your roux is ready.

I then chop the remains of my 4 bell peppers, a purple onion, and a few

stalks of celery. I melt half a stick of unsalted butter and sauté’ my veggies until they start to brown. I slice my sausage and add it to the sauté to for a few minutes to get the juices flowing. I combine the roux, stock, and veggies in my gumbo pot on medium heat.

I add the shredded chicken to the pot. I then take the legs and claws off the crabs and throw them in. I remove the lungs and mouth and then cut the crab bodies in half and add them to the mix. I let this all simmer on low to medium heat, stirring regularly to keep it from scorching the bottom of the pot. I add my crab meat towards the end, and try to be gentle with the stirring, so the delicate crab meat does not dissolve into a million pieces.

I season my gumbo to taste with salt and Compass Point Blend “Creole” seasoning. Boil some rice and toast some French Bread and you are ready to serve. I like my potato salad right in the middle of the bowl, but that is a discussion for another day.

I hope you enjoyed this recipe, Cheers,  Captain JJ - Charter Trash

TIRED OF LOSING JIGS ON ROUGH BOTTOM?

TRY

SLIDING CORKS

You know the !sh live around structure, and if you’re gonna catch ‘em, you have to !sh for them where they live! ey will not come to where you want to catch them, you have to got to where they live. I have quite a few places I like to !sh over shell beds and down the edge of rip rap that constantly have !sh on during one tide or the other, but the problem is, the bottom stays “hungry” for jigs and you need to !sh close to the bottom (in my humble opinion) to get the most bites. It’s been my experience that this is the place the “sliding cork” shines brightest! A co worker from Louisiana showed me this in the 80’s and it stuck like glue due to the rough bottom I like to !sh. In the beginning, we were !shing (white) Butterbean and No Alibi bucktails under the cork, but we didn’t have the ultra realistic so plastics like we do now back then. ose same bucktails will still catch ‘em, but I just don’t have the con!dence factor in a bucktail now like I have in the shrimp/jig combo. EVERYTHING eats the shrimp!!! Even picky !sh will eat the shrimp. Don’t hesitate to !sh a double tackle of these shrimp. is gets the bite sometimes when all else fails.

cork, or without a cork. e jig is balanced when you tie a loop knot in the eye of the hook, and because of that, it !shes the DOA Shrimp (I like to !sh) very realistically. A shrimp does not swim in the current bow heavy or stern heavy… it swims perfectly horizontal.

e sliding cork accomplishes several things

1) It !shes the shrimp at the exact speed the tide is running

2) It keeps the shrimp in the “strike zone” longer. For example, it will e$ortlessly !sh a wall and/or dock pilings in a way you could’t possible !sh it without the cork.

3) It keeps the jig suspended barely over the bottom a\t an adjustable depth

4) It allows the younger or less experienced angler to avoid being constantly hung up. is allows dad or mom to !sh longer and re-rig less. It’s really simple, when you see the oat go under, SET THE HOOK! Some species (especially ounder) will eat the shrimp coming upwards. is relieves the pressure o$ the cork and it will lay over for a second or so… SET THE HOOK!

Rod selection can make a di$erence, as I do NOT like a rod with 9 or 10 micro guides for !shing the sliding cork for a couple reasons. e smaller guides can e$ect the “bobber stop” keeper, and it can reduce the distance you can cast. I prefer a rod with less and larger guides. is has much less drag on the line allowing for longer cast and less maintenance on the keeper. I’m positive this will become a part of your arsenal if it’s not already. Give it a shot and see for yourself how e$ective it can make your presentation and how e$ective your younger anglers are at this. Check out the attached video for more details.

I really upped my game many years ago when I brought out the Barefoot Jig that sits perfectly horizontal under the (sliding or popping)

WHY BUY NEW WHEN YOU CAN RENEW?!?

For more from Tim Barefoot, visit barefootcatsandtackle.com and check out his YouTube channel.

It’s Sailfish Season!

With the warmest weather in the country, coupled with the shortest run to the !shing grounds, February !shing in the Florida Keys is arguably the best in e United States. While both our Bay and reef !sheries are in their peak productivity, and the wrecks are stacked with possibilities, the best part of our current !shery, is the sail!sh.

As a !sherman with a strong penchant for any !sh with a pointy face, being on the reef is a lot more preferable with the unicorn capturing possibilities this time of year.

Sail!sh migrate into our shallow waters during the winter, providing !shermen the opportunity to target them on and near the reef. Targeting sail!sh can be done in several di$erent ways, from trolling, bump-trolling live baits, driving around sight-casting to dangling a bait from a kite while on anchor, !lling the box with snapper. Depending on the conditions, acquired bait or the level of investment you have for targeting these !sh, all methods have their merits.

Although sail!sh are open to be harvested year round, it is a frowned upon practice to kill these majestic creatures. We love having them in our !shery and we want to keep them here for generations to come. I’m sure I have the meat hunters rolling their eyes, but i can argue that a !sh sandwich has never done to my tummy what watching a line scope out across the surface of the water does while i anticipate that arial performance

from a bill!sh. at being said, sometimes !sh are not always revivable and harvesting them becomes an acceptable option. If you do make a decision to harvest a sail!sh, you are required to have a Highly Migratory Species permit, and the !sh must measure 63” from the lower jaw to the fork of the tail.

If you do not intend to harvest a sail!sh, it is not legal to bring it into the boat for a photo. Even when done quickly and carefully, this is harmful to the recovery of the !sh. A recent study on white marlin showed that even while out of the water for under 5 minutes, a third of those !sh died within 30 days of being released.

A go-pro on an extender bar is your friend for this type of !shing. Not only can you capture underwater footage, which is key to your sanity if you lose the !sh, but it makes boat-side sail!sh photos possible.

Tagging, and ying ags are other great ways to add to your trophy take-away from the experience. Personally, my favorite sail!sh trophy is the scu$ed hands from where my !ngerless gloves allowed my !ngertips to touch that sandpaper bill during the revival.

A er a long !ght, sail!sh can become exhausted and need a little help restoring their power. A er dehooking your catch and grabbing some quick photos, you will likely need to revive the !sh. With

its tail independently, push it away from the boat and let go.

ere is nothing quite like the experience of bill!shing, and if you haven’t experienced it yet, now is the perfect time to get started. However, I must warn you that the rush is highly addictive and once you join the club, your life will never be the same.

Capt. Quinlyn Haddon guides with Sweet E’Nuf Charters out of Marathon, Florida Keys. (504) 920-6342. IG: @captainquinlyn www.captainquinlyn.com;

MARINE LITHIUM BATTERIES: REVOLUTIONIZING ENERGY STORAGE ON THE WATER

When it comes to powering boats, anglers, and water enthusiasts are constantly seeking the most reliable and e&cient energy solutions. Marine lithium batteries have emerged as a game-changer, providing unparalleled performance, longevity, and environmental bene!ts. Here’s why they’re rapidly becoming the preferred choice for modern boating.

Marine lithium batteries o$er remarkable energy e&ciency compared to traditional lead-acid batteries. ey boast a higher energy density, meaning they store more power in a lighter and more compact package. is translates to reduced weight on board, which is particularly advantageous for boats where every pound counts. e enhanced e&ciency also ensures longer runtimes for trolling motors, navigation systems, and other onboard electronics, keeping you on the water longer without interruption.

One of the standout features of lithium batteries is their impressive longevity. While lead-acid batteries typically last 2-5 years, marine lithium batteries can endure for 10 years or more with proper care. ey can handle thousands of charge and discharge cycles without signi!cant capacity loss, making them a cost-e$ective investment over the long term. is durability is especially important for avid anglers who demand reliable performance over multiple seasons.

Time is precious when you’re preparing for a day on the water. Marine lithium batteries charge signi!cantly faster than their lead-acid counterparts, allowing you to get back on the water more quickly. Many lithium models can reach a full charge in a fraction of the time it takes to recharge traditional batteries. Additionally, they support partial charging without harming their overall health, providing added convenience.

As environmental concerns grow, marine lithium batteries stand out as a greener alternative. ey do not contain harmful substances like lead or sulfuric acid, which can pose risks to both users and aquatic ecosystems. Additionally, their long lifespan reduces waste, and many lithium batteries are recyclable, further minimizing their environmental footprint.

Modern marine lithium batteries are equipped with advanced safety mechanisms, such as built-in Battery Management Systems (BMS). ese systems monitor parameters like temperature, voltage, and current to prevent overheating, overcharging, and short-circuiting. is high-level of protection ensures safe and reliable operation, even in demanding marine environments.

Marine lithium batteries are also perfect for powering high-demand systems like electric trolling motors, onboard appliances, and !sh !nders.

eir ability to deliver consistent power output without voltage drops ensures optimal performance for all your boating needs. Whether you’re cruising, !shing, or exploring, lithium batteries provide the reliability and endurance you need.

Marine lithium batteries represent a signi!cant advancement in energy storage technology, o$ering unmatched e&ciency, durability, and environmental bene!ts. While the upfront cost may be higher than traditional batteries, their long-term advantages make them a worthwhile investment for serious boaters. By switching to marine lithium batteries, you’ll enjoy peace of mind, superior performance, and a cleaner, greener boating experience. As the marine industry continues to evolve, lithium batteries are leading the charge toward a more sustainable and e&cient future on the water.

Lithium Battery Power offers a versatile selection of high-quality lithium batteries and accessories, specially designed for the fishing industry. Whether you're powering trolling motors, fish finders, or other marine electronics, our batteries provide reliable, long-lasting energy to keep you on the water longer. Built to perform in the toughest conditions, our batteries ensure that your gear runs smoothly, no matter where your fishing takes you.

B.A.S.S. ANNOUNCES HIGH-POWERED 2025 ELITE SERIES FIELD

On the heels of a record-setting 2024 Bassmaster Elite Series, where attendance and viewership numbers were equaled only by record weights and nail-biting !nishes, the competitive !eld for the 2025 season has been set. Although last year’s rookie class took the Elites by storm, the young guns stepping up to the big stage this year are just as !erce. However, the veterans will have something to say about who will be holding the blue trophies when the scales settle.

All 104 anglers invited to join the 2025 Elite class accepted the challenge, including seven former Bassmaster Classic champions and eight former Angler of the Year champions. e rookie class is led by Easton Fothergill, who won two Bassmaster Opens events in 2024 and the points race in the 2024 Elite Quali!ers division to punch his ticket to the big show. Cody Meyer, Tucker Smith, Paul Marks, Emil Wagner, Andrew Loberg, Dakota Ebare, Beau Browning and Evan Kung are

also part of the stacked freshman class. Two legends will be joining the 2025 Elites, both dragging a Classic trophy alongside them. Randy Howell won the world championship in 2014 and has almost $2 million in B.A.S.S. winnings. Cli$ Pace hoisted the Ray Scott Bassmaster Classic trophy in 2013 and has almost $1.7 million in career earnings.

Each event will kick o$ with the full !eld of 104 anglers on Days 1 and 2 before the !eld is cut to 50 for the semi!nal round. e !eld will then be cut to the Top 10 on the !nal day, with the winner taking home the title and the $100,000 !rst-place prize.

e 2025 Elite Series will kick o$ with the Bassmaster Elite at St. Johns River February 2023 in Palatka, FL. From there, the competitors will rattle rods through six other states while battling for the Progressive Insurance Bassmaster Angler of the Year title and a berth into the 2026 Bassmaster Classic.

Founded in 2006, the Bassmaster Elite Series is the highest level of professional bass !shing tournaments. Competitors must qualify for the series through the St. Croix Bassmaster Opens or the TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation, and anglers who are already on the Elite Series must requalify each year by maintaining enough points throughout the season. e pro anglers compete all season for the opportunity to win points toward the Progressive Bassmaster Angler of the Year award and to qualify for the Bassmaster Classic.

For more information and tournament schedule, visit bassmaster.com.

Now, THIS is a Knife!

EXCLUSIVE FREE

Inthe blockbuster film, when a strapping Australian crocodile hunter and a lovely American journalist were getting robbed at knife point by a couple of young thugs in New York, the tough Aussie pulls out his dagger and says “That’s not a knife, THIS is a knife!” Of course, the thugs scattered and he continued on to win the reporter’s heart.

Our Aussie friend would approve of our rendition of his “knife.”

Forged of high grade 420 surgical stainless steel, this knife is an impressive 16" from pommel to point. And, the blade is full tang, meaning it runs the entirety of the knife, even though part of it is under wraps in the natural bone and wood handle.

Secured in a tooled leather sheath, this is one impressive knife, with an equally impressive price.

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 when you purchase the Down Under Bowie Knife

Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. 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 Down Under Bowie Knives for this ad only. Don’t let this beauty slip through your fingers at a price that won’t drag you under.

Stauer® 8x21

Compact Binoculars

$99 valuewith purchase of Down Under Knife

BONUS! Call today and you’ll also receive this genuine leather sheath!

Your Insider Offer Code: DUK427-01 You must use the insider offer code to get our special price. Down Under Bowie Knife $249* Offer Code Price Only $99 + S&P Save $150

What Stauer Clients Are Saying About Our Knives

“This knife is beautiful!”

— J., La Crescent, MN 

“The feel of this knife is unbelievable...this is an incredibly fine instrument.”

— H., Arvada, CO

*Discount is only for customers who use the offer code versus the listed original Stauer.com price.

California residents please call 1-800-333-2045 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product.

• Etched stainless steel full tang blade ; 16” overall • Painted natural bone and wood handle • Brass hand guards, spacers & end cap • Includes genuine tooled leather sheath 14091 Southcross Drive W., Dept. DUK427-01 Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com

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