Coastal Angler Magazine | February 2023 | Naples/Marco Island/Everglades/Bonita Springs Edition

JIG A SQUID

FOR AFRICAN POMPANO

By Nick Carter

200-foot-deep structure.

Capt. Rick Croson, of Living Water Guide Service, showed Barefoot this bite for the rst time, and on that trip, they caught African pompano until they were tired of reeling them in as well as amberjack, dolphin and black n tuna. e widely accepted best way to catch African pompano is with a utter jig. However, Barefoot is never content with a tool or technique until he tries to nd a better way to do it.

“ ey are extremely susceptible to utter jigs, but the problem with those is the teaser assist hooks. We kept hooking them on the outside of the face with those wired stinger hooks,” he said. “With their thin, delicate skin, it’s tough to get a hook set. We were losing a lot of sh.”

e technique Barefoot settled on is to use his own 4-ounce Squid Decoy Jigs.

For most anglers, African pompano are welcome bycatch on bottom- shing trips for other species. But restrictive seasons on standard structure-oriented o shore species like grouper and snapper have made African pomps a primary target. In terms of gameness and quality as table fare, some might argue they belonged near the top of the list the whole time.

“ ey shut down grouper shing in January, and I’m not going to stop going o shore, so they’re the next likely candidate,” said Coastal Angler’s own Capt. Tim Barefoot. “ ey pull hard, they bite and they taste great. I’d put them

up in the top ve of my favorite sh to eat.”

African pompano school up on nearshore and o shore structure in late winter and early spring on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. A couple of years ago, Barefoot was introduced to a ridiculously good bite for 15- to 45-pounders out of Wrightsville Beach, N.C., and what he learned might help you dial in the bite where you sh.

Cold water consolidates African Pompano to their comfort zone this time of year, and out of Wrightsville Beach anglers nd the magic 65- to 67-degree temps 45 to 60 miles out on 120- to

“African pompano are very close to the bottom,” he said. “We drop that squid down to the bottom and pull it up just a few feet. Sometimes you can just set it in the rod holder and wait for it to get slammed. Sometimes you might want to give some action, but don’t overdo it. Squid are their primary food source. When they see it, they’re not shopping… they’re buying.”

Barefoot uses 40-pound braid to an 80-pound uorocarbon leader. He ties on his jig with a loop knot. e thing about squid is sh always attack them from behind to disable their beak. Barefoot said sh take the squid jig deep, and the result is a solid hook set in the mouth.

Find Capt. Rick Croson at livingwatersoutdoor.com and check out the Squid Decoy Jig at barefootcatsandtackle.com.

By

With big trout on my mind, I hooked up the boat and headed to deep south Texas. An approaching cold front was going to shorten my trip to a single day, but I felt con dent it would be worth the 5-hour drive. As the cold front swept across north Texas, my anticipation was high as I headed south to warmer temperatures and extra hours before the frigid air and high-powered north wind turned a nice winter’s day into artic conditions. e morning greeted me with calm winds and dense fog, which is not typical south Texas

weather 14 hours prior to the strongest cold front of the year. e norm is 25 knots from the south or southeast with a storm of this magnitude on the doorstep.

I headed to my pre-determined location at a safe speed considering the conditions. I was in no hurry, as the prime bite was not until 10 a.m. e forecast was sunny, calm and 70 degrees for the day, followed by north at 35 knots and a low of 28 the next morning. I was certain the approaching weather would have the bite red up, and it did not disappoint. e sh didn’t feed on everything

I tied on, but once I homed in on what they wanted it was nonstop!

I pulled up to a favorite cove, positioned the boat well outside the prime area and quietly slipped into air-clear, knee-deep water of the grass at. I had a 5-inch paddletail ready at the end of my rod. A er covering the prime area with only one follow by a small red, it was time to change. I downsized to a 3.25-inch paddletail with a light purple back and a pearl belly. As I looked up a er rigging my lure, I spotted a huge trout about 5 yards in front of me. She was there for several seconds and then slowly disappeared. I knew she was aware of my presence even though she didn’t spook, and I didn’t have high hopes of catching her, but I did try. I was excited knowing my plan had me in the area of the trophy-size trout I was targeting.

I noticed nervous mullet about 40 yards away and slowly made my way in that direction. It was nonstop action on reds in the 26-inch range, and I caught one 3-pound trout. ese sh were a little deeper in thigh-deep, crystal-clear water over grass and potholes.

roughout the day, I tossed three sizes of similar body-style paddletails, all with built-in tail rattles. e smallest, a 3.25-inch lure, was the only one that caught sh. I used three di erent colors, so it was only the size that mattered on this day under pre-front conditions. Although I did not land the big trout I was targeting, I am satis ed that I was in the right place and will go back soon.

Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures®, and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.

Capt. Michael Okruhlik

BEFORE THE

PHOTO COURTESY OF KNOCKIN TAIL LURES®.

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Disappearing into the stunning red rock formations that Sedona is known for, my girlfriend and I set out to hike Bell Rock, a butte just south of that famous desert town. We couldn’t have been happier.

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By David Hulsey

Asingle-handed y rod, which you might refer to as a “normal” y rod, is the tool of choice for most anglers seeking trout or other species on our inland rivers. But I’m here to tell you there’s a revolution building steam. Don’t be surprised when someone on your local river shows up wielding a two-handed spey rod. ese long rods are gaining popularity because they o er certain advantages.

For centuries, two-handed spey gear has been used only in pursuit of big anadromous sh such as salmon or steelhead on the huge coastal rivers of many continents. However, in the last decade or so, micro or trout spey rods have found their way into the hands of anglers. is smaller trout-sized spey gear opens the door for shing areas and for species that inhabit some of our beloved rivers and mediumsized streams.

If it lives in moving water, it can be caught with spey gear. Trout, of course, are the main quarry, but other sh such as smallmouth, spotted bass, largemouth, white bass and stripers are also fair game. Smaller-sized spey rods in 4-, 3-, or even 2-weight sizes are extremely e ective tools for reaching sh in big water with dicey wading areas.

Besides being loads of fun to sh and cast, a spey rod is designed to launch ies into the next county with little or no back-cast room available. Most troutsized spey rods are less than 12 feet long, with longer rods up to 16 feet reserved for big steelhead or salmon. A 2-weight spey rod is similar to casting a 4- or 5-weight single-hand y rod. A 3-weight spey rod can handle ies in sizes that a 5- or 6-weight single-hand can cast, and so on.

Here’s the main advantage of two-handed gear: Easy casts of 70 or more

feet can be launched from positions that are impossible with a single-hand y rod. Right now, the wheels in your head should be turning about places on your home river you have always wanted to run a y through but couldn’t reach.

Fishing is done down and across current to carefully swing ies through likely runs or holes, and the angler waits for the electric jolt of a trout or bass. Flies imitating bait sh, emerging insects, and even brightly colored Atlantic salmon or steelhead ies in smaller sizes are readily taken by sh. A well-tied y sweeping in front of a predator can draw a hunger reaction or a re ex strike in almost any condition.

Casting and shing micro spey gear is extremely fun and e ective. I hope you will join the trout spey revolution!

David Hulsey is a north Georgia guide who also teaches spey and regular y shing classes. Contact him through his website at www.hulsey y shing.com.

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Elite Series Descends on Okeechobee

By CAM Sta

The Bassmaster Elite Series opens its 2023 season Feb. 16-19 with a stop at Lake Okeechobee. It’s the rst time since 2017 that B.A.S.S.’s top pros have competed at the “Big O,” and depending on the weather, most pundits are predicting heavy sacks from some of the world’s best bass anglers.

Last time Elite Series anglers descended on Florida’s largest lake in 2017, they also shed in late February. A monster 9-pounder turned heads as the big sh of the tournament. Alabama pro Tim Horton topped the eld with a four-day total of 83 pounds, 5 ounces. at’s a better-than 20-pounds-per-day average, which is strong for any shery, but it’s not as good as it gets for this historic big-bass factory.

Back in December, locals Jerod Boltz and Jon Bowman secured the 2022 Roland Martin Marine Center Series Championship with an awesome, nearly 30-pound nal day on Dec. 11. eir big sh of the day was an 8.15-pound Okeechobee giant. ey caught most of their sh on chatterbaits, an Okeechobee favorite, and spent some time shing speed worms and ipping cattails.

With two months separating the Roland Martin event from the Elite Series event, there’s no doubt some things will change, but Florida’s mild winters mean some things will likely remain the same. Okeechobee is typically primed for big sh in the month of February, and there might be some bed shing going on. “Big O” bass will likely be up shallow in all stages of the spawn.

As with any shery, weather patterns have a way of ruining the best laid plans. February fronts from the north are notorious for shutting down hot Florida bass bites in a hurry. Last February, Coastal Angler contributor Capt. Angie Douthit reported consistent action with spinnerbaits, worms and chatterbaits, and said they were also catching sh ipping and pitching.

For more information, go to www.bassmaster.com.

B.A.S.S. photo by Seigo Saito

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By Emily Rose Hanzlik

CATCH FLOUNDER On the Move!

over to the other side of their head and they spend the rest of their lives looking up with one side of their body at on the bottom. ere are several species of ounder with overlapping ranges. Summer ounder are what northern anglers call ukes, their range in the Atlantic stretches from Nova Scotia down to Florida. Southern ounder inhabit the Atlantic coast as well as the Gulf of Mexico, while Gulf ounder can be found in the Gulf of Mexico from Florida to Texas. Southern ounder can be identi ed by their white underbelly and an absence of the ocellated spots the other two species have. ese spots resemble eyes, which are thought to trick predators. For southern ounder, males don’t grow much longer than 12 inches, while females can reach about 25 inches.

Southern ounder range from North Carolina to Texas, however, they do not migrate besides going o shore for mating and then returning inshore. While inshore, they prefer shallow muddy and grassy ats, where they hide on the bottom and ambush prey.

When the mating season rolls around in late fall and early winter, ounder migrate out of the passes. At the end of winter into early spring, all of the females and some males head back inshore.

Flounder can be caught with arti cial and live bait. Arti cial lures such as jigs, small swimbaits and spoons worked near the bottom can all produce sh. Small live bait works the best, with nger mullet being my personal favorite. Small pilchards, mojarra and mud minnows will also do the trick.

Light tackle is all that is needed to catch them. A small weight, 1-ounce, or so, with a short 12- to 16-inch sh- nder rig works best. A live shrimp on a jig head, such as a Troll Rite, jigged along the bottom can also work great and is a good way to cover more area with a live bait.

Some of the best places to nd ounder are on inlet rock piles and bridge or pier pilings. Cast upstream and work lures downstream, or let your bait dri downstream.

With the cold fading away, so will the ounder, but they return with spring. Many anglers believe the second cold snap is prime time, when southern ounder begin moving through the inlets. e timing varies greatly, but it can be gangbusters in the inlets if you catch it right. Even if you don’t, there will likely be some stragglers moving through.

Flounder are interesting sh. As hatchlings, they swim upright with eyes on both sides of their heads, just like most sh. As they mature, one eye moves

e IGFA all-tackle record for Southern Flounder is 20 pounds, 9 ounces. It was caught out of Nassau Sound, Fla.

Emily Rose Hanzlik holds 56 IGFA world records in various categories. She hails from West Palm Beach, where she has a part time Bow n Guide Service as well as shing classes for Jr. Anglers. Find her on Social Media @emilyhanzlikoutdoors.

It’s 8:17 p.m. Been out on the lake for hours.

But there are more fsh in the water.

And my LBP batteries are still going strong. Maybe One More Cast . . . the offcial battery of “One More Cast...”

Photo courtesy of Caroline Lewis, The Kids Can Fish Foundation

Peacock Bass

By: Caitlyn Gatrell

For some anglers like myself, the thrill of saltwater fishing brings joy to the fishing community, but it doesn’t stop there. For many, freshwater fishing can bring great excitement and achievements as well. In fact, many professional anglers out there make full time careers in the freshwater fishing industry, such as competing in tournaments, especially for bass. It also provides opportunities for tourism and just exciting, hands-on outdoors time for all.

There is quite a variety of freshwater species that are popular to fish for, depending on what region you are in, but a pretty popular species is the peacock bass. South Florida hosts a great selection for finding these fish and many can be found in canals, lakes, ponds, etc. These gosh definitely tend to put up a good fight and can be strong for their size. A great fishing memory of mine consists of fishing this lake local to me, where it was stacked with peacock bass. You could see them swimming along the bank everywhere, as the population was quite abundant here. Using live shiners and cichlids, we would toss them along the bank, near the rocky culvert, and the bait would immediately get eaten up, every single time. With this being my first-time peacock fishing actually, I was quite impressed at the crazy fast bites and immediate catching. We seemed to be ripping them up one after another, and on my second bite, I hooked into a big one, pulling the drag and running off. After getting it in, I can see quite the size difference compared to the one I had just caught 30 seconds before. It’s definitely a cool feeling when others in the group say they have been peacock bass fishing for years and have never seen one that big, so I was pumped! Getting those couple pics are key for the memories and sharing, so, we take a couple photos and get ready for the release. The fish swims off strong fairly quickly and we get ready to throw another bait in. I believe this trip we went through 20-30 baits within a 5-10 minute span, so we can definitely say it was a good fishing trip! As someone who would identify as a saltwater angler, it can be interesting to change things up sometimes and head towards those freshwater spots. If you are more of a saltwater fisherman, I encourage you to get out there and get your hands on a peacock bass!

ANYTHING GOES

Ialways welcome the month of February, as it basically is a month that ‘anything goes’ in regard to inshore and offshore fishing. It is the month that allows anglers to target migratory species such as, spanish mackerel, cobia, permit, snappers and groupers, both inshore and offshore. They should be in good numbers. February is the month before the ‘winds of March’ begin to intimidate professional and recreational anglers alike.

Th is year sheepshead will be the fish of choice as always, especially since the winter season (as we Floridians know it) didn’t exist during the months of December or January, nor did the sheepshead. Rumored to be difficult to catch, they also provide some of the best ‘action’ on light tackle, not to mention the tasty morsels. They will be found throughout Pine Island Sound along seawalls, ‘piles’, mangroves and oyster beds. Fish for them where and when there is current flow. Like most all species, when the tides have sufficient current, either incoming or outgoing, to change water levels and move bait fishes they are more active and easier to catch. Like always, the larger Sheepshead should be feeding and spawning around the aforementioned areas during the cooler water temperatures of February.

Sheepshead are not difficult to catch when the ‘bite is on’, as mentioned above. Just like any other species, they do not eat ‘non-stop’. However, when they feed, they can be very aggressive. When they go into a feeding mode, they are very easy to catch. Anglers targeting these fish need only to realize that it is during the feeding phase, that they will basically ‘hook’ themselves, with just a little ‘angler’ patience, by not trying to set the hook too quickly. They have a tendency to ‘school’. When the small Sheepshead are eating, the big ones won’t. Conversely, when the larger sheepshead bite is on, the smaller ones get out of the way.

Recognizing a sheepshead bite from another species is the ‘key’ to understanding how and when to set the hook. Hard hits or redundant nibbling are small mangrove snappers or pinfish. When either of these fish are biting, odds are the sheepshead are not eating or are not at that location. Light ‘tugs’ or gentle ‘pulls’ are sheepshead. They will pick up the bait and swim away to the left or right of the initial presentation. Any of these events triggers the time to remove some of the slack in the line and set the hook.

My bait of choice for sheepshead is small shrimps. Fiddler crabs are the choice bait for most ‘old timers’, but crabs can be hard to find.

I chum the heads of the shrimp to incite more bites while using the tails to catch them. I use light tackle with 10-15lb. braid line with 30lb. leader. Small #1 or #2 bait hooks with a small pinch weight to get the presentation down to the seabed. Simple, but successful!

Spanish mackerel is another bonus during the month of February. They are headed south to Mexican waters. They will be found in areas where birds are diving, in the passes and flats throughout Pine Island Sound, Charlotte Harbor and off the outer islands in the Gulf of Mexico. Live and artificial presentations all work for these fast moving, aggressive, ‘darting’ fish. They are toothy critters and require heavy monofilament (40l-50lbs.) or light wire leaders to prevent bite offs. These fish like white baits (pilchards) or silver spoons that resemble them. When using spoons, be sure to use a swivel to prevent line twisting.

February is also the transition month for bigger seatrouts to inhabit the grass flats. Wherever they have been for the past few months are beyond me but seem to come out in 3 to 5 ft. of water with lots of 19” to 24” fish. Light tackle should be used to enjoy the catches of both small and bigger trout. Swim baits, top water and paddle tails all work. Use the top water presentations early morning when waters are free from turtle grass and other debris for some really exciting angling. Nothing beats catching a seatrout on a top water lure. Live Shrimp, suspended under a popping cork will provide the most consistent action of all. Fish the milky-green colored waters in depths of 3-5ft. for best results. The greenish color indicates the seabed is covered with grasses for fish safe havens. By-catches will consist of pompano and ladyfish.

Offshore, red grouper, lane snapper and the other species (which were closed last September) have now been reopened in Federal Waters. Fishing for mangrove snappers, Yellowtail snappers and most all grouper species are open before the March winds begin to prevail. These species hold on wrecks, rubble and ledges anywhere from 30-100 ft. of water. Be safe and be sure the vessel is worthy and equipped with safety gear.

By: Capt. Terry Fisher

Cooler Temps

By: Capt. Billy Norris

Fishing over the last month has been outstanding! Now that we are fully into the colder months, the water has cooled off and were getting back to a normal wintertime fishing! Both offshore and backwater have been equally as productive, with a few species standing out above the rest.

Even though we took an incredibly hard hit from Hurricane Ian,

fishing has been excellent offshore. With a surprise closure of red grouper and lane snapper towards the end of the year, we started putting more emphasis on gag grouper, and it didn’t disappoint! 2022 was one of the best gag seasons we’ve seen in several years. There were plenty of fish ready to bite, with most being keepers (raised from 22 to 24 inches) and some bigger boys closer to 30+ inches coming over the railings. Cobia have also remained in the area in large numbers throughout the winter. Cobia can be found in nearly every offshore habitat, from wrecks to reefs to good bottom. Many times, they simply popup out of nowhere, so always smart to have a rod rigged and ready as a pitch bait for those opportunities. Snapper have also been active in our coastal waters. Big lanes, mangroves, and even muttons have made solid appearances at the fillet table.

Backwater has also produced some great fishing action. Immediately following Ian, there was an unbelievable amount of debris in the water including cars, household appliances, and even a full house sitting on one of the grass flats. However, due to our State’s rapid cleanup response, the Bay is nearly debris free at this point! Snook, redfish and trout have all been a hot bite. Sheepshead have also started to appear in numbers, so try targeting them around docks and oyster bars.

It’s hard to beat a day out on the water, but it’s even better when the fish are biting well! The action is hot right now, so call today to book a trip with us at Pale Horse Fishing Charters!

Pale Horse FC | palehorsefishingcharters.com | 239-285-7710

Have You Speared a Lionfish Yet?

By: Capt. Chad Carney

In 2010 I shot my first Lionfish diving in the Tortugas. After stoning him, 6 more of his buddies were trimmed of their 13 dorsal, 2 pelvic and 3 anal venomous spines. I ascended with the last one intact on my sling, which slid down and almost stuck me. Single flopper tips are not good at protecting your hands, even with dive glove. Lionfish are ravenous ambush predators, smart but not about being prey. They have venomous protection, great camouflage, rapid growth, and breed like rabbits. They can wipe out 90% of all life on a single reef. First seen offshore of SE Florida, where hundreds of exotic tropical fish were released. The Lionfish is native to Indo-Pacific and the Red Sea and the infestation has spread throughout the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and way up the Atlantic.

Organizations now have lionfish derbies widespread because they have no marine predators. Divers are one of the few effective means of reducing the lionfish population. The largest lionfish I heard was speared in Florida and was 48.8cm / 19.213in. My largest Lionfish is 17in. in my Bucs shirt! Lionfish taste like hogfish and is high in lean protein and Omega 3 fats. The Reef Lionfish Cookbook is sure to make your mouth water. The book is full of fantastic recipes!

Moderately short polespears with paralyzer tips work very well to

shoot and pin lionfish, and easily slip them into a container. Divers just wanting a dinner can cut off the spines with sea snips and string them like any fish. Handling lionfish can hurt but the pectoral fins have no spines so you can carefully grab and hold a lionfish by the nose, then trim away. It’s best to keep lionfish in a separate cooler as well. I’ve still not been stung, after hundreds shot, but people say it’s like a wasp sting. Heat is the best pain relief, with hot water, or heat packs. With popular fish regulations being limited every day, it’s good to have non-indigenous fish as alternatives!

chad.carney@yahoo.com https://www.facebook.com/floridaskindiver/ https://www.deeperblue.com/beginners-guide-spearfishing/ 727-423-7775

ChillOut

By:JoeSheaffer

When the chill is on, fishing conditions can be a challenge. Colder temperatures have set in, and low water has made it difficult to consistently catch fish. There are ways to work around these conditions. Starting with areas that fish choose during cold spells. Identifying these areas can make all the difference. I like to start with satellite maps along with local area channel maps to find areas (hard structure, bridges, docks, patch reefs, to name a few) around deeper water. With colder temperatures, fish will relate near these areas because they tend to warm a bit quicker. The nature of these structures provide current breaks. This time of year, current is important, but they definitely don’t want to fight the current. Figuring out how the fish will relate along these stretches is important. They will still face towards the current for feeding opportunities. I like to keep my boat into the current working my presentation with the current. Slowing your presentation can be the key, using heavier jigs or weight can help keep your lure in the strike zone longer. Getting hung up in the structure can be annoying but it can be worth it. Sometimes you almost need to hit these fish in the head to get them to bite. Many times, I will pop my jig and let it sit for a while (15-30 sec), then pop it again. I have caught many fish, mostly Snook, Reds, Grouper, Sheepshead to name a few, using this tech. Once you pop (a quick lift off the bottom) your jig and let it sit, feeling an AWESOME thump can be a huge thrill. The key to all this is slowing down. This time of year bites may be few, but they can produce some seriously nice fish. Good luck and keep casting.

1:43 2.3 2:39 2.3 8:22 0.0 8:42 0.4 7:05 6:17 10 Fri 2:25 2.1 2:58 2.3 8:48 0.3 9:27 0.3 7:04 6:17 11 Sat 3:17 1.9 3:17 2.3 9:11 0.6 10:24 0.2 7:04 6:18 12 Sun 4:31 1.7 3:44 2.3 9:31 0.9 11:39 0.1 7:03 6:19 13 Mon 6:17 1.5 4:25 2.3 9:50 1.2 7:02 6:19 14 Tue 5:30 2.4 12:55 -0.2 7:02 6:20

Wed 10:59 1.7 7:02 2.5 2:04 -0.4 1:38 1.6 7:01 6:21

Thu 11:10 1.8 8:35 2.6 3:08 -0.7 2:57 1.5 7:00 6:21

Fri 11:33 2.0 9:45 2.9 4:04 -1.0 3:58 1.3 6:59 6:22

Sat 11:59 2.1 10:41 3.1 4:54 -1.1 4:50 1.0 6:59 6:23

Sun 12:26P 2.2 11:32 3.1 5:40 -1.1 5:38 0.7 6:58 6:23

Mon 12:54 2.3 6:24 -0.9 6:26 0.4 6:57 6:24

3:31 2.4 4:40 2.2 11:20 -0.1 11:29 0.3 7:04 6:15

Thu 4:08 2.3 5:04 2.2 11:48 0.0 7:03 6:15

Fri 4:50 2.1 5:23 2.3 12:08 0.3 12:14 0.2 7:02 6:16

Sat 5:42 1.9 5:42 2.3 12:53 0.2 12:37 0.3 7:02 6:17

Sun 6:56 1.6 6:09 2.3 1:50 0.1 12:57 0.5 7:01 6:17

Mon 8:42 1.5 6:50 2.3 3:05 0.0 1:16 0.7 7:00 6:18 14 Tue 10:40 1.5 7:55 2.3 4:21 -0.1 1:30 0.8 7:00 6:19

Wed 1:24P 1.6 9:27 2.4 5:30 -0.3 5:04 0.9 6:59 6:19 16 Thu 1:35P 1.8 11:00 2.6 6:34 -0.4 6:23 0.9 6:58 6:20

Fri 1:58 2.0 7:30 -0.5 7:24 0.8 6:57 6:21

Sat 12:10 2.8 2:24 2.1 8:20 -0.6 8:16 0.6 6:57 6:21

Sun 1:06 3.0 2:51 2.2 9:06 -0.6 9:04 0.4 6:56 6:22

3.1

WHY SPEARFISH?

Introducing spearfishing to someone that has never done it before or let alone even heard of it, is always a fun task. Over the years I have been blessed with the opportunity to guide hundreds of divers on their first hunts in the water. The feeling of seeing all the stars aline for someone to shoot their first fish is an amazing thrill. Some divers truly take to it and spearfishing becomes more of a way of life than just a way to put a fresh meal on the table. But of course, this doesn't happen overnight, as much as we wish it could, spearfishing does take a lot of patience and practice. Many people question what spearfishing is, why they should do it, and why I am so obsessed with it. My goal for this article is to answer those questions and help you dive headfirst into the sport that will change your life like it has mine!

Surprisingly many people really don't understand spearfishing or how it is able to be done. The simplest definition, I suppose, would be going underwater and shooting a fish. This really doesn't define the sport well, but many see it this way. Much like running would look silly to someone that does not run. Spearfishing is a way to sustainably harvest fish, but at the core it is much more. It is a form of evolution for an individual, it kicks in primal instincts, it sharpens our minds and strengthens our bodies. Most importantly, spearfishing connects divers with the ocean and the fish that live there. Spearfishermen need to learn about the environment they hunt and the fish they target. So, although spearfishing is a means to harvest fish for food, there is a lot more hidden behind the word!

So why should you spearfish, like it or not you are perfectly designed for it. When you were first born, if dropped in the water, instinct would kick in and you would hold your breath. This is known as a dive reflex and the average newborn can hold their breath for up to a minute. As you become older, this dive reflex is lost and so is your breath holding ability. Through training and practice you can learn to find this dive reflex and kick it into action when spearfishing. This is no secret, there are now many agencies offering training and certifications for freediving. All of these courses focus on diver education and safety, helping you devel-

By: Capt. Tony Young

op the skills that you were born with in a safe manner. Furthermore, spearfishing will heighten your senses and you will become more aware about your surroundings. You will notice small changes on the reef while diving and be able to predict fish movements before they happen. These heightened senses gained through spearfishing can help you in many other aspects of your life. Spearfishing is a passion driven sport. You do it because you need it, love it, and long for the time in the water. You've heard of the high that marathon runners get, well landing a nice fish that you have worked hard for is just the same if not better! These are all reasons why so many divers love to spearfish and why you will as well.

We all have our passions and obsessions in life. For me it is spearfishing, for you it may be something else. What I love most about spearfishing is how it has driven me year after year to evolve and become better. To be in better shape, eat healthier, learn more about the fisheries, be engaged in conservation, advocate for fisheries, the list goes on. There is always a next level, a more challenging fish to hunt, a new spot to dive, or new obstacles to overcome. As you grow in this sport, you will also grow as a person, this is why I believe so many divers have turned spearfishing into a way of life, rather than just a sport. However, you land in the ocean, be open to spearfishing and all that comes with it! You might just find a hidden obsession that you never knew existed!

A lthough most of us have seen or heard of spearfishing, many of us do not see it in the ways described above. Spearfishing is much more than just a way to harvest fish, it's something that we are all built for, and many of us can't live without it! The next time you load up the boat to head offshore, think about dropping below the surface. Think about taking a class, or a charter, to learn more about spearfishing.

If you currently dive, think about how you can become better, both for yourself and for the fish. Be more selective, seek larger and more challenging fish, aim for better shots and stronger dives. Remember that every time you drop below the surface, you are one of the few in the world to do so. Very few people ever see below the waves, let alone harvest fish in this manner. This all makes the success and memories that much more meaningful. Dive Safe!

impacted from careless behaviors such as anchoring on coral heads and creating propeller scars on sea grass beds while providing suggestions boaters on how to reduce those effects.

The second section of the course covers best practices when fishing. Anglers learn about conditions that can contribute release mortality and how factors such as improper handling can impact our favorite fish populations. The program provides information on how to reduce release mortality with suggestions on proper gear types, choosing the most appropriate gear and best landing/handling procedures. The module is filled with info like baitfish identification, how gills work, how to hold fish properly when snapping a photo and more!

New Year Angling Resolutions?!

By: Mike Sipos

Florida is the fishing capital of the world with over 4 million unique fishing license holders! Annually, recreational, and commercial fisheries provide the state with a combined $17 billion of economic impact and support tens-of-thousands of jobs! With all this pressure and significance fishing has on this state’s economy, environment, and culture, it’s up to all of us to educate both Floridians and visitors to make sure we’re able to enjoy this natural resource for years to come!

The Florida Friendly Angler (FFA) is a free, narrated, online, short, do-at your-own-pace educational program that educates users on our state’s aquatic environments, best practices when fishing and the inner workings of fisheries management. By teaching the how and why behind topics that anglers encounter while interacting with Florida’s fisheries, the program hopes to reinforce practices that can ensure quality fishing experiences are here to stay, providing great memories and the economic impacts that follows.

The fi rst portion of the program covers environmental ethics for anglers. In this section viewers learn the growing need for best practices and ethical behavior while interacting with fisheries and the environment. Anglers will learn about fishing pressure, how popular species like Gag Grouper have been affected in the past and what WE can do to help reduce the strain on heavily targeted species. There is also information on how environments like natural reefs and grass flats are

Section three covers an introduction to fisheries management. In this portion, viewers learn why we have fisheries management, understand who manages our state’s fisheries and what management decisions are based on. Many anglers are aware of fishing regulations but may not know why they are put into place. The module also has info on management agencies, fisheries science tools, what is a stock assessment, population models, fisheries data and how anglers can contribute to science.

The i nformation taught in the FFA course is not only applicable to fishermen but anyone who is interacting with the marine environment. Florida has some amazing critters and habitats that are heavily pressured from all fronts including tourists, new residents, hurricanes, red tides etc. A little bit of good information across a large group of people could help reduce destroying coral when anchoring, stop sea grass scaring, and making sure that the fish you just caught and released gets back in the water and continues provide memories for you, your child or your cousin from up North that’s just visiting.

Its quick, its easy, its free and even as an avid angler and biologist I learned a thing or two and was reminded about how my actions can affect the environment and the fisheries I know and love. The course is essential if you’re starting to fish in Florida and is still great even if you’ve spent years on the water with too many fish stories to remember. Give it a shot, you got nothing to lose, and you can get a neat sticker from completing the program. Visit FLFriendlyAngler.com to learn more. Tight lines!

Michael Sipos is the Florida Sea Grant agent for UF/IFAS Extension Collier County. Contact him at sipos624@ufl.edu. For more fishy content and updates on upcoming educational programs, check out the Collier County Sea Grant Facebook page, YouTube Channel, Instagram page or Michael Sipos’ UF/IFAS blog.

For more fishy content and updates on upcoming educational programs check out the UF/IFAS Extension Collier County Florida Sea Grant Facebook Page, YouTube Channel, or Michael Sipos’s UF/IFAS Blog. Contact Michael Sipos at sipos624@ufl.edu.

No redfish too big for Penni Cremer off Boca Grande!

Joe Cremer exhausted by this monster redfish on Lemon Bay.

Tim Hull lands this ferocious snook off Boca Grande.

Chris & Dad went 5 for 6 on crab bouys, using shrimp.

Loving my Sarasota snook, @ David Walls,Thanks Life is good!

Bizzer caught this nice red in Palmetto!

42” PB Redfish caught on the Rod and Reel Pier by Eric “Swivel Chair “ Wiegel.

Kevin and Earl Horecky sunrise surface bite near Captiva.

Jon Owens hauls in this junior tarpon off Pine Island in December!

TIPS FROM A PRO

FISH A BIG WORM FOR SPAWNING BASS

Over the next few months, waves of sh will ood the shallows to spawn. is presents the opportunity to catch some monster bass, and a plastic worm is always a main player for me when it comes to the spawn.

A Texas-rigged stickbait is a very common technique, but many people use it ine ciently by casting to a lot of dead water. I try to maximize productivity by casting to high-percentage targets. I focus on isolated cover. In the South, this could be small patches of grass and groups of pads, where spawning females are hidden from the naked eye. In other parts of the country, the structure might be wood or rock. Make multiple casts and work these areas slowly. I use a bigger-style stick bait, normally in the 6” version. Darker colors like a black and blue tip are my go-to. I use lighter 1/16- or 1/8-ounce weights to keep the bait looking natural. Use heavier line to cast around thick cover for large sh, but avoid braid which might be visible to sh in shallow water. I like 17- to 20-pound uorocarbon.

When I want to cover more water and locate sh, slowly reeling a big speed worm-style bait works great. e vibration the tail gives o drives sh crazy. It’s an awesome way to nd sh before slowing down to pick the area apart. I like darker colors like a junebug when the water has some stain and gravitate to more natural green pumpkin with some ake when the water is cleaner. I use ¼- to 1/8-ounce of weight and 15- to 17-pound uorocarbon.

A wacky rig is also e ective when sh are shallow. I sh it just like the Texas-rig in isolated cover, but I sh it weightless. is is great for heavily pressured sh. I use lighter line in the 10- to 15-pound range and a spinning rod for a wacky rig.

Flipping a worm is the last technique I will cover. is allows you to put a bait in places other styles don’t allow and e ciently pick apart heavy cover. I use a large Senko-style so plastic, and braided line is a must. I like 3/8 to ¾-ounce of weight, depending on the thickness of the cover. Remember, the only way to set yourself apart is to slow down and put your bait in places nobody else has.

Except for the wacky worm, rod and reel choices for each technique are similar. I like a longer 7’6” medium-heavy to heavy action rod for most worm shing. e 13 Fishing Omen Series has a few rods that are perfect for the job. I use a faster-speed reel like the Concept A 7:5:1.

For the wacky worm, I like a 7’ 3” spinning rod in medium-heavy. A reel with good drag is important, and I’d recommend the Axum from 13 Fishing.

Tyler Woolcott is a professional tournament angler and guide. Check out his website at www.tylerwoolcott shing.com.

TYLER WOOLCOTT

THE ABACOS ACKLINS ANDROS BIMINI CAT ISLAND ELEUTHERA THE EXUMAS HARBOUR ISLAND LONG ISLAND SAN SALVADOR

Since 1990, CraigCat has offered big performance in a compact, easy-to-use package! Their (DSTS) Dynamic Sport Tuned Suspension system, and (CHD) Calibrated Hull Design give you the smoothest ride and high-performance fun that no one else can duplicate, even in less than favorable conditions. Their (ASC) Automatic Stability Control gives the driver and passenger confdence in almost any conditions.

Whether it is fresh or saltwater, fshing or sightseeing, CraigCat has the right model for you! They have taken the CraigCat to a whole new level with the exclusive package. Loaded with amenities, the CraigCat E2 Elite features a premium JBL highdefnition sound system with USB and Bluetooth connectivity, custom deluxe bucket seats, full-width composite storage compartment, convertible Bimini top, ion docking, NAV, position, and LED courtesy deck light. They offer a wide range of accessories like the very popular GPS navigation system with down imaging sonar, wing storage racks for additional storage, polished stainlesssteel propeller, and the list goes on.

Portability is a big thing when it comes to boats. Not only is a CraigCat very portable with a total weight of 550 pounds, practically any car can tow a CraigCat with the combined weight of 800 pounds, boat and trailer. High quality and great value are what you get with a CraigCat.

With costs sky rocketing out of sight in the marine business, the CraigCat is very affordable. The E2 Elite 25hp model complete is only $13,485!

Here’s a memorable beach moment: You’re basking in the warm sun, toes in the sand, letting the gentle turn of the foam-capped waves lull you into a state of complete relaxation. As your eyes scan the endless horizon of blue on blue, you’re rewarded with a school of dolphins making their way across the sea. There’s no denying their signature shape as they leap from the water. If you don’t see anything else extraordinary the rest of the day, you can take solace knowing you’ve witnessed one of nature’s most playful and intelligent creatures in their natural habitat.

Why not re-create that special toes-in-the-sand moment with our Blue Topaz Dolphin Pendant? The beloved sea mammal has been captured mid-jump in sterling silver. And, tucked into its fins is a full two carats of shimmering blue topaz. Nothing captures the shimmering color of the ocean in the midday sun like blue topaz. With its sparkling clear blue color and high refractive index, blue topaz is one of the top-selling blue gemstones. And with our special price, you have quite the catch. Satisfaction guaranteed or your money back. Enjoy the Blue Topaz Dolphin Pendant for 30 days. If it doesn’t pass the test swimmingly, send it back for a full refund of the item price.

Limited Reserves. A full two carats of genuine blue topaz set in sterling silver for this price is as rare as a dolphin sighting. We cannot guarantee availability for long. Call today!

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BASSMASTER CLASSIC RETURNS TO THE TENNESSEE RIVER

The 2023 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic—widely known as the “Super Bowl of Bass Fishing”—will be held March 24-26 in downtown Knoxville, Tennessee and on the University of Tennessee Campus.

e Bassmaster Classic is one of the world’s most prestigious championship tournaments and pits 55 of the world’s best bass anglers against one another for the title of Bassmaster Classic Champion. e Classic is a catch-and-release event, with bass being returned to the shery under the supervision of the TWRA.

Daily takeo s will be from Volunteer Landing on the Tennessee River in downtown Knoxville each competition day, and weigh-ins will take place in the ompson-Boling Arena on the University of Tennessee campus. e fan favorite Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo will be held Friday through Sunday, March 24-26 in the Knoxville Convention Center and the adjacent World’s Fair Exhibition Hall.

All activities and venues are free and open to the public.

For more information, visit Bassmaster.com.

B.A.S.S.

PHOTO BY SEIGO SAITO

C-Hawk Boats has made a name for itself among boaters who want no-nonsense, custom-purpose vessels that are designed to perform and built to last. Owner Brad Grubbs said their C-Hawk 25 Center Console is an endlessly customizable boat that has gained a lot of fans among charter captains who fsh them hard every day. “We have 10-plus guides using them on the west coast of Florida,” he said. “In Georgia and South Carolina, they’re using it as a small passenger ferry. In Chesapeake Bay, it’s a crab boat.”

At its core, the C-Hawk 25cc is a hard-core workhorse with a 300 horsepower maximum that will take you anywhere you need to go. Its 9’6” beam allows it to foat in very skinny water with just a 12” draft, and it is also extremely stable, which should appeal for bottomfshing, diving and any other pursuit where a stable platform is preferred. Whatever you plan to do with it, all C-Hawk boats are built battleship tough to commercial-application standards. They are designed to withstand hard use for years of trouble-free boating, and you can customize your C-Hawk from the factory in any way that suits your purpose.

“We can mix and match consoles, fsh boxes, full transoms, cut transoms, bare hulls… you name it,” Grubbs said. “There are some recreational guys adding towers and sight fshing for cobia, and such. Everything we do is built around keep it simple, keep it effcient, keep it easy to maintain, keep it cost effective to own and operate. They are all unique… no cookie cutter trailer queens here. The 25 is a great example of what C-Hawk is.”

CHAWKBOATS.NET

Old Pete was a retired stuntman bursting with stories. There was the time he stared down a grizzly bear. There was the time he won a competition and got to kiss a Hollywood starlet as the prize. And there was the time he got into a fistfight with the Duke. Many stories. Some were probably even true. I know two things for sure: that he had an excellent collection of turquoise and that he owed me for a poker game he lost. The last time I saw him, he opened a drawer and pulled out a collection of beautiful Navajo turquoise jewelry to repay his debt. Pete’s jewelry inspired our Tucson Sun Turquoise Collection. This jewelry set features turquoise that’s been gently enhanced to bring out its finest shades in a Southwestern motif. Finished with oxidized silver, this jewelry set captures the beauty and mystery of the Arizona desert. The rarest and most valuable turquoise is found right here in the American Southwest, but the future of the blue beauty is unclear. I recently spoke with turquoise traders who explained that less than 5% of turquoise mined worldwide can be set into jewelry. Once thriving, many Southwest mines have closed.

But Stauer saw this coming and is now one of the largest owners of gem-grade turquoise in the U.S. Don’t miss your chance to own the diamond of the desert. Act now. This is one of our fastest sellers, and we only have a limited supply of Arizona turquoise available for this ad. See why Stauer remains the best bang for your buck!

Jewelry Speci cations:

• Arizona turquoise. Oxidized silver finish. Ring: whole sizes 5-10. Pendant: 1 ¾" drop. Cuff: fits wrist to 7 ¼".

Stauer, 14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. TSC130-01, Burnsville, MN 55337 www.stauer.com

Introduced in the New Product Showcase at ICAST 2022, the all-new MHX HD Rod Rack is the ultimate shing rod storage system with space for up to 20 of your favorite rods.

Constructed from Marine Grade HDPE material, it will never rot, warp or damage your tackle. Assembled with stainless steel hardware, no environment is o limits. Whether used on the dock for a post-trip wash down or just to help organize your garage and tackle room, this rod rack is a solid piece of equipment designed for serious anglers.

From y and light-tackle rods to heavy o shore rods, each rod’s ghting butt sits in CNC Milled recessed cups to add stability to all handle styles. e MHX HD Rod Rack has the size and the brawn to handle your full arsenal, indoors or outside. It even comes with four supports that lock in heavy duty bent butt o shore rods.

Measuring 26” x 16” x 8”, this heavy-duty, multi-purpose rod rack is easy to assemble and will nd a perfect place on your boat or dock, in the garage, or at the shop.

e MHX Rod Rack securely stores your rods, so they are ready at a moment’s notice. With an MSRP of only $229.95, you won’t nd a tougher, more versatile rod rack at such an amazing price. Shop for the MHX HD Rod Rack at mudhole.com today!

The Return of a

MUDHOLE.COM

Berkeley County, South Carolina

Berkeley County is a wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts, sports bu s, adventure seekers, and water lovers.

From exemplary fishing for striped bass, or a trophy largemouth bass, to our hiking trails and water activities, along with scenic outdoors where you can catch a glimpse of white tail deer and gators, Berkeley County has activities to fit all visitors and families.

Learn more about Berkeley County at: exploreberkeleycounty.com