navigating peace of mind
Unpredictable waters
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.
Navigational fexibility
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.
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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DRESSED TO KILL & FULLY LOADED
The quest to find the ultimate men’s watch has traditionally been a difficult one in the world of fashion. A timepiece with the perfect look and functionality has long been the goal of both watch designers and enthusiasts alike.
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THE FASCINATING JOURNEY OF TARPON MIGRATION
By Dr. Benjamin Cole
Tarpon (Megalops atlanticus), known as “silver kings,” are renowned for their acrobatic leaps and strength, making them a top target for anglers. However, their fascinating migration patterns also play a crucial role in maintaining marine ecosystems.
Tarpon migration is largely driven by the need for feeding and reproduction. Tese highly
migratory fsh can travel thousands of miles, infuenced by water temperature, food availability, and spawning needs. Preferring temperatures above 72°F (22°C), tarpon move south during colder months, seeking warmer waters.
the U.S. Atlantic coast, they travel from Virginia to Florida and the Caribbean, while in the Gulf, they move from Texas and Louisiana to Mexico. Teir northward migration begins in late spring, driven by rising temperatures and abundant food. By summer, tarpon reach as far as Virginia, signaling the start of fshing season. As fall sets in, they return south to warmer wintering grounds.
A key driver of tarpon migration is spawning, typically occurring between May and September in ofshore areas with strong currents. Afer spawning, larvae are carried into estuarine environments like mangroves and marshes, crucial nurseries for juvenile tarpon. Tese habitats are essential for the species’ survival, but environmental degradation threatens their health.
While tarpon are primarily a catch-andrelease species, improper handling during fshing can lead to mortality. Conservation eforts, including safe fshing practices and habitat protection, are essential for sustaining tarpon populations. Organizations like the Bonefsh & Tarpon Trust work to monitor migration, protect critical habitats, and promote responsible fshing.
Found in the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico, tarpon migration varies by region. Along
Tarpon migration is a remarkable journey, driven by the search for favorable conditions. By protecting these iconic fsh and their habitats, we can ensure their survival and preserve their role in marine ecosystems for future generations.
RIG IT RIGHT FOR THE OPTIMUM BITE
Capt. Russ Walker
If a fsh can see the bait, they’ll hit it much faster than if they must search through grass or mud. Tat’s why I rig to suspend the bait, keeping it above the bottom where fsh can easily spot it. Grass fats are incredibly productive fshing grounds, and targeting the edges where the fat drops of into deeper water is the key to catching bigger fsh.
In around fve to six feet of water, grass growth stops, forming a natural erosional edge where fsh like trout, cobia, tarpon, and mackerel hunt. Tese edges act like a “superhighway” for predatory fsh. While smaller fsh are found on the fat, the big ones hang near the edge, diving into the deeper channel when necessary.
Te best tool for this fshing method is a fat-topped popping cork. Te cork keeps the bait suspended at the desired depth and makes a popping sound when tugged, drawing fsh to the noise. Tis is especially useful for beginners, as it’s an easy technique that produces great results. With just a few pops, the live shrimp below the cork will jump into plain sight, attracting the fsh.
As a charter captain, I’ve found this method efective for anglers of all experience levels. It’s not uncommon to catch 80 to 100 fsh during a four-hour trip using this rig. It works equally well ofshore near wrecks, suspending bait for species like permit.
I make my own 200 lb. rated, fat-topped popping bobbers, stronger and shorter than store-bought versions. Tey’re perfect for fshing
everything from trout to tarpon, with only the hook size and leader changing. Te leader length is always four and one half feet, and the magic depth on the grass-fat edge is fve feet.
Typically, I use a 3/0 Mustad Wide Gap Hook with a 1/4 oz. egg sinker and a 30 lb. fuorocarbon leader. Tis rig works wonders for trout, pompano, mackerel, snook, redfsh, and ladyfsh.
So, give it a try! Pop the cork a few times, remove the slack, and hang on. When the bobber disappears, just “yank it and crank it.” You’ll see your catch increase by at least 40 percent. Fish On!
Capt. Russ Walker is a USCG Masters licensed fshing guide and owner of Tide Walker Charters out of Cape Coral, FL. www.tidewalkercharters.com
PATCH REEF FISHING in the Keys
By A. deGruchy
The Florida Keys transform into a fishing paradise as the intense summer hurricane weather fades and cooler fronts begin to roll in. This fall, it’s all about the patch reefs... vibrant underwater gardens teeming with a variety of species. Targeting these patches is incredibly fun and rewarding. You’ll encounter species like snapper and grouper, along with various types of mackerels. Light-action fishing is always a blast,
and in the Keys, there are countless patch reefs to explore.
To find a patch reef, look for shallow spots scattered with coral and sand, typically just a few miles offshore at depths of typically between 1530 feet. For gear, we recommend using a PENN Spinfisher VII 3500-4500 combo. The Mustad 3/0 Demon circle hooks are reliable, and when it comes to bait, live shrimp are unbeatable. It’s all about enjoying the vibes and seeing what you can reel in... mutton snapper, red groupers, porgies, Spanish mackerels, and much more!
This fall will be even more special with the opening of Three Waters Resort in Islamorada. This elegant new destination offers not just stunning accommodations but also brand-new restaurants and a magnificent ambiance. Imagine savoring fresh culinary experiences while soaking up breathtaking waterfront views. After a day on the water, kick back and enjoy a drink at one of the resort’s dining venues or onsite restaurants.
So come on down this fall and get ready for some fun fishing in the Florida Keys. With Three Waters Resort as your home base and Bean Sportfishing Charters as your vessel, you’ll be hooked on the fishing, the food, and the laid-back vibes!
By Capt. Jack Gohmert
HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN CHUM BAIT FOR FISHING SUCCESS
Creating your own chum bait can signifcantly boost your fshing success. Chum, a mixture of fsh parts and attractants, draws fsh to your spot by creating a feeding frenzy. Making your own chum lets you tailor it to the fsh you’re targeting and saves money. Here’s a simple guide to making efective chum and using it for the best results.
Chum is a blend of fsh-based materials that attract predatory fsh. When
placed in water, it forms a scent trail and visual signal that lures fsh like snapper, tuna, and sharks. Whether you fsh ofshore, from a pier, or inshore, chum helps by concentrating fsh around your location.
Making chum is straightforward. You’ll need the following:
Tools:
• Food processor or meat grinder
• Bucket or container
• Rubber gloves
• Freezer bags (for bulk storage)
Ingredients:
• Fish scraps (bait lefovers, carcasses)
• Canned fsh (sardines, mackerel, or tuna)
• Fish oil or menhaden oil
• Breadcrumbs or oats (to bulk up the mix)
• Optional: sand or cornmeal (to sink chum faster)
How to Make Chum Bait: Step-by-Step
1. Gather Fish Scraps: Collect lefover fsh scraps or use canned fsh. Local fsh markets are great for sourcing discards.
2. Grind the Ingredients: Use a food processor to grind fsh scraps into a paste. For canned fsh, mash it along with the oil for a strong scent trail.
3. Add Bulk: Mix in breadcrumbs, oats, or cornmeal to bulk up the chum. Tese ingredients absorb oils and create a scent cloud. Sand can help sink the chum.
4. Enhance the Scent: Stir in fsh oil to intensify the scent, making it travel farther underwater.
5. Pack and Freeze: Freeze large batches in bags. When fshing, break of chunks and toss them into the water.
For ofshore fshing, throw small amounts of chum every few minutes to create a steady attractant. For shore or pier fshing, use a chum bag or cage to suspend and slowly release the chum. Adjust the size and consistency of your chum based on the fsh species. Larger fsh prefer coarse chum with chunks, while smaller fsh may respond better to a fne mix that creates a cloud.
Making your own chum is a cost-efective way to improve your fshing. With minimal tools and ingredients, you can craf a bait that attracts fsh and turns a slow day into a successful one.
JACK ATTACK
By: Caitlyn Gatrell
Every angler has different preferences when it comes to what’s considered a “good catch”. Most think of lengthy gamefish and some might think of anything that’s big. For me, I look at it as a mix of both. One species in particular we’ll focus on is jack crevalle. They might not be considered a gamefish, but one fact about them is they are very strong, no matter the size! So, when I hook up to a large one and I feel my arm muscles get tight, I think of that as a good catch. Do you?
Recently I was able to get a new personal best Jack while out fishing. My fiancé and I brought our pups out for our German Shepherd’s birthday, and I always say, they are our good luck charm. We were able to catch snook, redfish, trout, tarpon, goliath, and my new best jack that day!
The jack was the first catch of the morning and boy did it put on a show. After we loaded up on mullet at our favorite bait spot, we were making our way towards one of our honey holes when we came across a school of rolling tarpon. We came in slowly and quiet and threw out our bait. Not only could we see a bunch gulping air around us, but there was a lot of topwater action also.
As we quietly sat and waited, soon I felt something hit my bait hard, and the line started to take off. I jumped up hoping it was a tarpon but after no jumps and a specific tug, I knew it wasn’t a silver king. I could feel the fish digging and it would take off when it would get closer to the boat. My gut was telling me jack or shark and sure enough with that first surface movement I could see it was a pretty nice sized jack. Of course, it took off a couple times, so I had to fight it for a bit before I was able to bring it into the boat. I was a bit nervous with all the action as we have seen plenty of sharks over there! But I was able to get it in, take a few photos, and release it without the tax man showing up.
I felt great after fighting that fish and my arms felt like they had a little workout! While jack may not be as hype as a trophy snook or a feisty tarpon, I still love when I get to hook up to a big one and I encourage others to look at it the same!
BE PREPARED
By: Capt. Tim Ramsey
“Que sera, sera.” Whatever will be, will be. It’s an interesting philosophy but a bad lesson in planning and leadership.
The 1955 song was about something called “cheerful fatalism,” which suggested everything in life is left to fate, outside human influence, and we should cheerfully accept that lack of control. The song was originally created for an Alfred Hitchcock movie where the theme was people can be the complete opposite of what they seem. So can boating and fishing. Here’s what I mean.
You take your little Jon boat out on a calm day and anticipate a successful trip. Then your engine quits in a hard current in the middle of the pass leading to the Gulf, and you find out the hard way your dinky little anchor doesn’t have the chain needed to get it to the bottom and the rope is too short. Or you realize you’re careening toward a pier, or a big boat is coming with a huge wake behind it, and you never actually practiced putting on the life jacket that is stuck under the seat.
One day, I was cruising around on absolutely glass slick water somewhere near the Naftal reef south of Cape Romano when I noticed something off in the distance. For a moment, I thought supernatural beings were standing side-by-side on the surface of the water. I immediately cut the throttle and grabbed the little pair of binoculars I kept in the console. My supernatural subjects turned out to be three people standing in a swamped boat. I eased over to them and asked their status, and they said a boat wake came by and swamped them. One guy was so big the camouflage life vest on him looked like an airplane pillow. I asked them why they took a freshwater boat with a freeboard of about fourteen inches so far from land. They said the weather report said it was going to be calm and they wanted to go grouper fishing. A woman on the boat shouted, “how do we call 911.” Yep. I know. A guy asked me if I could retrieve their cooler floating about a quarter mile
away. Chances are before the trip, the captain said, “it will be fine.” What he should have said was “Que sera, sera.”
Another day, I was way back in the mangroves snook fishing. I noticed a small boat pass by the entrance to the little lagoon I was in. About thirty minutes later, I saw it going the other way. I cruised out of the lagoon on the trolling motor casting to the bank as I went, and as I rounded the mouth of the creek leading to a larger bay, the other boat was coming back again. When they got close, I noticed a guy with a look of surprise on his face and a woman crying. I clicked off the trolling motor and waited for them to get closer. Turned out they were lost, looking for the way out of the back country for over an hour. Instead of saying “oh well, whatever will be, will be,” and leaving these frantic mangrove neophytes to their own devices, I told them to not worry, it wasn’t far, and just follow me. I took about twenty minutes to show them to safety and got back to fishing.
Hey Tim, what’s the point? Always be prepared. Know how to operate your boat. Have the necessary navigational aids and practice with them. Know your area. Be ready for emergencies. Expect the unexpected. Prevent problems. Know your capabilities and limits. Sure, some people operate their boats carelessly and/or recklessly, but that comes back to bite people and it’s not worth it. Not many things feel worse than seeing someone get hurt and suffer over something stupid or careless you did.
For more fishing stories or some fun mystery novels, check out my page on Amazon at Amazon.com: Tim Ramsey: books, biography, latest update , and for a fun mystery with a female author and lead character, try Assassin Key: A Diana Diaz-Dragos mystery: De Icaza, Yolanda Maria: 9798851461910: Amazon.com: Books.
NOVEMBER
WHAT’S THE PATTERN
By: Joe Sheaffer
Pattern fishing, what does that mean? How do anglers figure out the pattern? Many anglers have these types of questions and are looking for answers that will help them be productive. That information can be helpful but many times it probably doesn’t help all that much. Fishing in tidal waters creates changing conditions daily if not hourly. Many times, I may have a great day of fishing, go back the next day and it is totally different and much tougher. Fishing reports can definitely be helpful but most of the time each day presents different conditions and challenges. Whenever I’m on a fishing adventure, I’m trying to figure out a pattern that will produce a consistent bite. Some days there isn’t much to figure out, the fish are biting, and it seems the fish will bite anything. Unfortunately, that doesn’t happen that often at least for me. Most days I have a plan for my day on the water, then I’m trying to figure out a pattern that will help me make that day productive. I usually will start with current flow, looking for areas where water is moving. Current can be caused by tidal flow, wind or funnel areas. Bait plays a
huge role in figuring out a pattern, usually if there is a bait presence there will be predators around. Other factors that affect a pattern are water levels, water temperature, seasonal trends and water clarity to name a few. Most of the time when I figure out a solid pattern, it will hold up throughout the fishing trip. I can cover water or run to specific areas and catch fish. There are times when the pattern may change while I’m fishing, usually because the tide is changing. There are situations where the pattern totally changes, and I may need to figure out something else or call it a day. To be totally honest, there are days I never really figure out a pattern. There are times when grinding a fish here and there is all I can do. I consider myself a pattern fisherman, figuring out the puzzle each trip can be a challenge but so rewarding when I can put the puzzle together. Have a plan and take mental notes as you fish. Many times, one bite can be the clue that keys you into a great day of fishing. Good luck and keep casting!
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TheArt of Fish Tails
By: Jessica Hendrie
Fish tails. They’re more than just a fish’s rear end, they’re like the engine. The drive. All of them range from size to color to shape and they help them zip around the ocean, of course. But tails don’t just help the fish swim, they fuel the greatest sport ever, exaggerating fish tales. So, what are the basics? Fish tails are also called caudal fins, essential for propulsion. (The more you know) whether a tuna making a quick dig through the ocean or a sailfish racing by you, the strong tail is what drives them. Now onto the real art form, fish tales. Because every angler knows, catching fish is only half the battle. The other half is telling your friends and family about it, and that’s where the tail, I mean tale, gets bigger. Remember that 2-pound mahi mahi you caught in Puerto Rico? Yeah, me either. It was a 50 pounder that fought like a big White Marlin. And nobody will question you, or will they? Maybe they won’t let you know. Fish tails and fish tales have a lot more in common than you might think. Just like a tail propels the fish, a tale propels your reputation. How many of us has held the fish closer to the camera, don’t lie, I seen it! In truth, fish tales are the best to tell children. It’s so fun to watch their facial expressions as you tell them about a great giant you reeled in on a stormy day with rain coming down and waves rolling over. They will talk about it forever and it will forever be a core memory for them. After all, it is all in the tail! To conclude, whether it’s a fish tail powering a 40 pound grouper or a fish tale impressing your 8 year old son, never underestimate the back end of a fish. At the end of the day, without a good tail, what’s the point? Happy Fishing!
Tides
by Capt. Billy Norris
the moon is exerting its gravitational influence on. When a particular location passes through this zone, it pulls the hardest on the Earth, creating high tide.
Here in Southwest Florida, we are on a semidiurnal tide, meaning we typically have two high tides, and two low tides in a 24-hour period. However, this isn’t a set rule and there are many factors that can have an effect on our tide cycle. Most notably is the difference in tide heights and strength. We call these spring and neap tides. What is a spring tide? Well, there happens to be another huge solar body that plays an effect on Earth’s tides; the sun. Although the sun is 27 million times the size of the moon, it is 390 times farther away than the moon, which gives it a little less than half of the moon’s tide-generating force. However, it does still play a role. Twice a month, when the Earth, moon and sun line up, their combined gravitational powers generate exceptionally high tides where the bulges occur, called spring tides, as well as very low tides where the water has been displaced. About a week later, when the sun and moon are at right angles to each other, the sun’s gravitational pull works against the moon’s and partially cancels it out, creating weaker tides called neap tides.
Although not overly complicated, it is fascinating to learn how the tides actually work. When fishing, everyone loves a hard moving tide. Backwater fish like snook, tarpon and redfish are extremely active in rapid moving water, and the wreck bite offshore can be extremely productive as well. The combination of a strong tide and full, bright moon make fishing after dark, like night snapper trips, very productive. The tides play a major role in our aquatic environment here in Southwest Florida, and understanding how they work will definitely benefit you when coming up with a fishing game-plan. Summer is almost over, so get ready for some of the best fishing of the year as we move into our cooler fall months!
As any angler will tell you, the tides play a critical role in your ability to catch fish. Everyone knows that the tides are affected by the moon, but have you ever asked how the moon actually affects the tides. The answer is actually very interesting, and having a greater understanding of how this system works will give you an additional advantage when planning your next fishing trip.
When you observe the tide coming in or out, what you’re seeing is a cycle of small changes to the distribution of Earth’s oceans. The moon’s gravity pulls on the Earth, shifting Earth's mass and distorting its overall shape. Although the Earth isn’t a perfect sphere, it is relatively close. The moon’s tugging distorts the Earth’s shape causing it to bulge and changes it slightly into a more elongated shape, similar to that of a football. The strongest gravitational pull occurs on the points closest to the moon, so the Earth gets elongated at the equator and shortened at the poles.
Because the moon is orbiting in the same direction that the Earth rotates, you cannot easily predict the tides by just following the path of the moon. As the moon orbits and pulls on the Earth, the planet moves through the zone that
Capt. Terry’s Strategies
By: Capt. Terry Fisher
The last couple of months have prevented many from fishing due to excessive heat, tropical depressions, hurricanes, rains, high winds and limited harvesting of inshore and offshore species. I am looking forward to this month as hurricane/storm season winds down and sub-tropical temperatures fade away. The fish are active and remain in good numbers. Know the rules for harvesting fish. Tide levels still allow access to ‘skinny’ locations, docks and seawalls prior to the coming winter months.
Look for things to begin to ‘chang-up’ in late November as we approach the first month of our winter in December. Early November should continue to offer great opportunities for redfish, snook, seatrout and mangrove snapper for inshore anglers on the higher tides. Weather permitting, offshore anglers will have a better chance at nice size groupers and snappers in water depths from 50-100 ft. as opposed to the deeper summertime depths of 130-160 feet. Numerous ‘pods’ of bait fish are offshore and proof the waters of Southwest Florida are healthy. Grouper, snappers and other reef species are plentiful. Look for the pelagic permit and king mackerel to be coming through our waters as well.
Oc tober yielded a good number of redfish with big bull reds. The snook bite was good as were the seatrouts and mangrove snappers. Throw the arrival of triple tail into the mix this month to make scouting and catching them fun experience(s) for anglers, not to mention fishing guides as well. November will be one’s best chance of scoring a ‘redfish of a lifetime’. The strategies to find and catch these fish rarely change but there are a variety of ways for both artificial presentations, live or dead baits.
My Recommended Strategies for Catching Big Redfish;
1. Fish the top half of the higher of the two daily tides around points of spoil islands and oyster beds. Fish in close!
2. Be quiet when moving in on a ‘spot’ to fish, as the bigger Redfish spook easily, they did not get ‘big’ by being ‘lucky’. Change locations frequently after 15 minutes or so if they are not biting, odds are they are not there or on a break.
3. Fish when the wind direction is in your favor for making a presentation.
4. Do not hesitate to re-fish previous locations that were non-productive earlier in the day or night. Fish move with water levels, water temperatures and to areas with food and protection.
5. Fish will bite on artificial, live, or dead bait presentations. Artificial presentations require the ability to move around and cover
a lot of ground. Live bait or dead bait presentations, on the other hand, give anglers the opportunity to sit and wait a little longer in an area. However, both methods require moving to and from several areas to find the fish.
6. There are a number of live and dead baits that work, such as pilchards, pinfish, ladyfish and finger mullets. They may be presented live or ‘cut’. Some of the best artificial presentations include gold spoons and paddle tails, scented or unscented.
7. Do not arrive to fish the mangroves too early or too late. Most of our tides are in six (6) hour increments. Fish 3 hours before tide tops out or 3 hours after high tides. During a moon phase that supports a very high tide, allows the fish to seclude themselves deep into the mangroves. Conversely, the fish will be swimming out to the potholes on a low tide when there is not enough water to house them under the mangrove and other debris, thus making them harder to locate. It Is common sense That on a high tide they will be somewhere under or close to the mangroves as there is both food to eat and protection from enemies such as birds.
The A nnual Fort Myers Boat Show is scheduled for November 14th -17th this year. 1ST Mate Vicki will be inside the Convention Center to greet clients and guests as they peruse the booths in search of any products that are marine related. I’ll be presenting fishing seminars at a location inside the convention center and invite everyone to checkout the times and subject matters for inshore, offshore and tarpon fishing. This year I will be joined by my fishing friend and counterpart, Captain Jay Rodriquez of Salty Native Fishing Charters here in Cape Coral and Ft. Myers. We will be rotating on an hourly basis discussing inshore and offshore fishing techniques that guarantee catching fish. The hourly seminars are sponsored by Coastal Angler Magazine, and will start daily at 10:30 through 3:00 PM.
I am available as ‘Captain for Hire’ on your vessel by the hour for safety, navigational, fishing techniques and locations. Check out my website at www.fishfacecharters.com. Contact me by phone at 239-357-6829 or email me at fishfacecharters@yahoo.com with any questions or to confirm a date on the water on your vessel or mine. This is Captain Terry Fisher wishing you ‘tight’ lines!
Kerry Zeigler caught this 28” redfish at Jack Lain and son w/ a nice Estero Bay snook, caught w/ Capt. Fred Gowdy.
Olivia Caught this snook at Matlacha Pass Bridge.
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HOW DO HURRICANES AFFECT FISH?
By Dr. Sal Benezo
During a hurricane, fsh experience dramatic changes in their environment that can afect their behavior, habitat, and survival. As the atmospheric pressure drops with an approaching hurricane, the water pressure at diferent depths also changes. Fish have swim bladders that help regulate buoyancy, and the rapid changes in pressure can afect how they swim and maintain their depth. Some fsh may dive deeper to avoid the surface turmoil.
Hurricanes churn up sediment from the seabed, making the water murkier. Tis can reduce visibility, afecting how fsh fnd food and avoid predators. In coastal areas, this turbidity can also carry pollutants and toxins from land runof, negatively impacting the water quality.
Hurricanes generate powerful underwater currents and massive waves. Many fsh seek refuge in deeper waters, coral reefs, or underwater structures to avoid being swept away. Shallow-water fsh may struggle more to fnd shelter from the turbulence, which could lead to displacement or death.
Hurricanes ofen bring a rapid infux of fresh water from rain and runof, lowering the salinity of coastal waters. Some species, especially those adapted to certain salinity levels, may be stressed or forced to move to more stable areas. Additionally, the mixing of ocean layers can lead to changes in water temperature, which can afect fsh metabolism and spawning behaviors.
Te disturbance of the water column can disrupt oxygen levels, particularly in areas where organic matter from land washes into the ocean. Decomposing plant material can deplete oxygen in the water, creating hypoxic (low oxygen) zones, which can force fsh to fee or risk sufocation.
Fish, especially schooling species, may instinctively move to safer waters before or during a hurricane. Some species seem to sense the change in barometric pressure and migrate to deeper or more sheltered areas ahead of the storm. However, fsh that get caught in the turbulent water may end up displaced far from their usual habitat.
Afer a hurricane, habitats may be altered signifcantly. Coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves—essential fsh habitats—can be damaged, leading to long-term impacts on fsh populations. However, hurricanes can also bring benefts, such as replenishing nutrients and oxygen in certain water bodies, which can stimulate plankton growth and temporarily improve food availability for fsh.
Fish have evolved to withstand many natural disturbances, including hurricanes, but the intensity and frequency of storms can have lasting efects on fsh populations, particularly for those in fragile ecosystems.
FOR THE LADIES
WHY COSTA RICA IS A TOP DESTINATION FOR LADY ANGLERS
TRACY PATTERSON
Costa Rica is a renowned destination for anglers, ofering calm seas, ideal fshing conditions, and worldclass fshing. It is especially popular among female anglers due to its safety, tournaments, and supportive crews, making it an unforgettable experience.
If you’re seeking high odds of catching billfsh, Costa Rica is the place to be. On a full day ofshore, it’s common to get multiple strikes. Te fat, calm seas make it enjoyable for anglers of all levels, letting you focus on reeling in catches rather than battling rough waters.
Costa Rica hosts two ultra prestigious women-only tournaments: the Ladies Angler Tournament at Los Suenos Resort and Marina, and the Pescadora Billfsh Championship at Marina Pez Vela. Both tournaments create a supportive
yet competitive environment for anglers of all skill levels. Te Pescadora Championship is
particularly unique, ofering two Female Angler of the Year awards based on diferent fshing techniques. It encourages women to challenge themselves and grow in the sport.
Costa Rica is ranked #1 in Central America for safety, and recent laws further protect women from harassment. Female anglers can feel comfortable walking around resorts and marinas. Charter feets also adhere to strict safety regulations, ensuring peace of mind while on the water.
Whether you’re staying at a boutique hotel or a private home, Costa Rica ofers a range of accommodations for groups of all sizes. Many resorts are conveniently located near marinas, allowing easy access to fshing trips and other adventures.
Costa Rica is home to many women who support the lady angler movement. Te captains and crews are eager to teach beginners, helping them hook their frst billfsh or refne their skills. With women accounting for a growing percentage of anglers, Costa Rica ofers a welcoming and empowering environment for female anglers.
Whether you’re an experienced angler or a frst-timer, Costa Rica ofers an unbeatable fshing experience. Its exceptional conditions, tournaments, safety, and camaraderie make it the top destination for lady anglers.
Cast Lures in a Mitzi Tournament 17
FALL=FLOUNDER
IBy Capt. Michael Okruhlik
t’s that thrilling time of the year, founder time! Te fall migration, reaching its peak in November along the Gulf Coast, promises an exciting infux of founder to their spawning grounds. Louisiana, following Texas, has also implemented a closed season during this peak run. But remember, the inability to keep fatties during this time doesn’t dampen the thrill of catching them.
Flounder will be migrating into the Gulf during this time, so the apparent ambush areas will be around passes that lead to the Gulf. Te founder will position themselves in diferent regions based on the tide level and current strength. In addition to using their burying-in-the-sand ambush technique, they also utilize structure in several ways.
First, any object that protrudes above the bottom is a great ambush point. Tis ofers a current break for forage fsh to gather directly above a buried founder, making for an easy meal. Objects such as bulkheads are also great ambush points. Flounder like to position themselves against the solid barrier and I think this can be for two separate reasons depending on what other factors are at play. As mentioned above, it could be a current break, especially if the bulkhead has a corrugated shape. When a founder settles against a bulkhead, its prey has less direction in which it can fee, allowing the founder greater odds of capturing it. When targeting founder, never pass up a bulkhead.
Secondly, founder can be caught using a variety of lures and live bait, especially if you keep it in contact with the bottom to increase your chances of a strike. When it comes to live bait, a frisky mullet is your best bet for landing a larger founder. If you’re aiming for a trophy, this is the way to go. Personally, I prefer fshing with lures, particularly the paddle tail style. Jerk-style sof plastics and bucktails can also be efective when worked in the same manner.
If I had to pick a tide to maximize my time on the water, I would choose a medium fow outgoing. Although there are no set rules that fsh always follow, I feel the founder feed more on their way out to the gulf, utilizing
the current to ease their journey. Contrary to the incoming tide, they bury themselves rather than fght against the current.
Don’t let the closed season discourage you from targeting founder during this migration; it will have its advantages. Going forward we will undoubtedly have a larger founder population, but the instant gratifcation will be a lot less trafc in our favorite founder spot! I will use the closed season to target a new personal best this season, as should you.
Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures® and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.
PHOTO COURTESY
OTim Barefoot
f course, October is when it all starts, but if you like to bottom fsh, then November is the month the turbo kicks in, leading to the crescendo of the year… December. I’ve always said the week of Christmas is the apex of the grouper fshing calendar, and I’ll stand by that statement now. Tis is when larger (male) gags move inshore to establish their territory on inshore ledges, wrecks, and live bottom, much like buck deer making scrapes and rubs to mark their territory. Tese males now wait for the smaller females to show up in numbers to spawn, and the bite traditionally goes of the charts.
A small piece of hard bottom can attract large numbers of fsh if it contains the right ingredients. First and foremost, you need to locate their food. Go to the places that have traditionally held the bait—cigar minnows, sardines, beeliners, etc. “Find the bait, fnd the fsh” has been my thought process for years. Tese fsh won’t show up to a party without food—common sense. You can anchor up on a stack of bait without seeing a big mark of fsh, but afer a few bites, you’ll notice the screen light up with more and more fsh showing up.
Anchoring up is key to shallow water grouper fshing. Te sound of fsh feeding travels great distances and doesn’t go unnoticed. Once an area is fred up, constant bites supercharge the atmosphere down there. If you’re drifing, you won’t get a specifc area fred up; you’ll only go back where you got bites. But if you anchor, the fsh come to you to join in. Tis draws the alpha predators—big sharks. Yes, you’ll lose some fsh and tackle to these bruisers, but enjoy the ride while it lasts. When sharks show up, it’s time to move on to another ledge or further down the same one.
Back to noise... Keep in mind that while we hear very little, fsh hear everything. Sound travels far underwater, and everything you do on deck—slamming cooler lids, dropping hard objects, loud music, yelling—is heard by the fsh. It could be the diference between catching smaller cows or big bulls. Large male groupers didn’t get old by being dumb. You don’t kill big bucks by being noisy, so treat your fshing with the same respect.
Te folks that target grouper come home with grouper. Te ones who go “bottom fshing” with cut bait and chicken rigs come home with “bottom fsh.” As Franklin Covey said, “begin with the end in mind.” If you’re targeting grouper, think and act like it. Put baits on the bottom that avoid trash bites. Spend time jigging up some of that “trash” and drop them back down on a Decoy Jig for optimal results. Watch some of my videos on YouTube (Tim Barefoot) for examples of what I’m saying.
For more information, visit barefootcatsandtackle.com.
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