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By Capt. Mike Weinhofer hen I arrived in Key West more than 30 years ago, there was a sign on the fence at the airport that said “Sportfishing Capital of the World.” At the time I had no idea how special Key West was as a fishing destination. It isn’t that it’s the best fishery for any one species. The opportunities here are endless. It has a lot to do with Key West’s location and topography. Key West is a tiny island 120 miles out in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other. It has shallow waters surrounding it to hold bait and deep water near to shore. It’s a very unique ecosystem. It’s a natural migration point for many species to feed and breed. Shallow flats surround Key West and serve as a breeding ground for bait and shallow-water trophy fish. The tarpon migration is world famous. Whether you want to fly fish or bait fish for tarpon, they are always willing to entertain. The shallow flats are also home to bonefish and permit, the hardest fish in the world to catch on a fly. But while the flats are loaded with fish, it’s not just the shallow water that mesmerizes. The call of bluewater seems to ring in everyone’s ears. Just 5 miles offshore on the Atlantic side lies the shallow-water reef. The reef is home to grouper, snapper and all types of tropical fish as well as myriad baitfish. The reef is also a congregation point for bluewater fish. The small ballyhoo and other baitfish attract larger and larger fish to the shallows. It is not uncommon in the winter months to watch sailfish chase ballyhoo in less than 15 feet of water. Just outside of the reef, the water drops to about 120 feet in 500 yards, and then there is an area called “The Bar.” It’s the old coral reef from when the water table was 40 feet lower. The Bar is about 200 yards wide and holds all kinds of fish. It shadows the reef for about 20 miles to the west. The west end of the bar is a magical place, with east-bound current upwelling on the end, bait feeds on pushed-up nutrients, and where bait congregates fish follow. Now for the offshore bluewater. “Woods Wall” is named after the man that discovered it, the famous Keys fisherman Norman Woods. At
W
make even more structure. So close to shore and holding such a variety of fish, it is a bluewater angler’s dream. Amazingly enough, we have not even touched on the fishing west or the north of Key West yet. To the west lie shallow flats and a string of islands that hold bait, tarpon, permit, sharks and many more species. Then, when you get about 20 miles west of Key West there is an island atoll call the Marquesas. It is a special place. Flats fishers come from all around the world to fish this little island. Many stories have been written about epic battles with tarpon and permit and what a magical place it is at sunrise, when anglers watch shallow-water fisheries come to life. Farther to the west are 10 or so wrecks in less than 15 feet of water. Fishing around these wrecks is like fishing in an aquarium. The water is crystal clear and bait is everywhere. Whether it is barracuda, permit, cobia or sharks, the wrecks are alive with activity. Another magical place 64 miles west of Key West is the Dry Tortugas, a group of small islands surrounded by shallow water and some of the best bottom fishing in the world. The Dry Tortugas is home to Fort Jefferson, a national park and a whole other ecosystem I could spend an entire article describing. To the north of Key West lies the Gulf of Mexico, a shallow basin for the nearshore that drops to about 100 feet in depth at 40 miles. The Gulf is loaded with wrecks that hold all kinds of bottom fish. Grouper, snapper and cobia fishing is a blast, as is the jewfish and shark fishing. Never mind fishing behind the shrimp boats for blackfin tuna, bonitas, cobia and other fish. And there are the radio towers that stand tall out in 80 to 120 feet of water that hold all kinds of bottom fishing opportunities as well as kingfish, amberjacks, sharks and cobia. In short Key West is not the best fishery for any one thing, it has it all. The topography makes it like no place else in the world to fish. Its unique layout allows us to hide from prevailing winds and make even the worst winds fishable. Quite often the hardest decision is which way to turn in the morning, left or right can make all the difference. It is one of the few places you can catch tarpon in the morning, sailfish in the mid day and dolphin or tuna in the afternoon. Everything is just so close, and there are just so many choices it makes each morning a debate. After 30 years, I still enjoy all the hard choices. Capt. Weinhofer runs charters on the Compass Rose. Visit www. KeyWestFloridaFishing.com or call 305-395-3474.
the edge of the continental shelf, the top of the wall is 800 feet deep with a shear drop to deeper than 1,800 feet in a mere 100 yards. The Gulf Stream slams into this shear face and makes rips and upwellings. If that weren’t enough, there are cracks in the wall that extend inshore to 8
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Fight the blues.
If nothing makes you happier than battling a billfish, you’ll find plenty to smile about in Key West. Minutes from shore you can go toe-to-toe with behemoth blue marlin, the greatest gamefish of them all. You can chase after tuna and dolphin, too. Wahoo! fla-keys.com/keywest 1.800.527.8539 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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ON THE COVER Editor’s Note:
Each month, Coastal Angler Magazine and The Angler Magazine staff search our vast coverage area for photos that will grace our covers. With well over a million readers in diverse coastal and inland markets, our magazines strive for broad national appeal as well as local-level intelligence to put anglers on fish. The cover is different depending on which edition you, the reader, are holding. The following is a little information about this month’s covers.
COASTAL ANGLER MAGAZINE Freeport, Bahamas Yellowfin
FREE
Sushi doesn’t come any fresher than it does Outdoor 32nd Annual on the deck of the Finster when yellowfin Palm Beach Apparel International Edition Boat Show tuna are pushing bait off of Freeport in the Bahamas. This month’s Coastal Angler Magazine cover photo, courtesy of Picture Perfect Charters, is of Capt. Pete Milisci with a nice tuna that has an imminent encounter Local with a fillet knife and some soy sauce. Team Finster is an offshore tournament team based out of Fort Myers, Fla. They fish sailfish tournaments on the east coast of Florida as well as some offshore stuff on the west coast. All that sounds fun, but so does their annual spring tuna outing across the Gulf Stream from Fort Lauderdale. It’s the kind of trip most occasional anglers dream of, and these guys do it pretty much every year when the yellowfin show up. They spend the better part of a week operating out of a condo in Port Lucaya, venturing out just 10 miles from the docks each day to chase birds and catch big tuna. They load coolers with mahi, blackfin and yellowfin tuna, and even the occasional mutton snapper caught from the dock while they are cleaning the day’s catch. What more could an angler ask for? March 23-26
WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS WANTED! The Best American Hooks & Weights For Better #Fishing
Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events
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THE ANGLER MAGAZINE Lake Erie, Smallmouth Bass
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Over the last decade or so, Lake Erie, the fourth largest of the Great Lakes, has really taken off Outdoor Apparel as one of the best smallmouth bass fisheries in Edition the world. This has been widely credited to the arrival of the invasive round goby, a bottomdwelling species that has become a staple in Local the diet of bass and other game fish. Biologists have reported impressive growth rates of smallmouth bass in Lake Erie since the gobies took hold there. The long-term impact these invasive fish will have is not completely understood, but for the meantime they are propping up a great fishery. The photo on the cover of this month’s editions of The Angler Magazine is of Kayla Culp, of Ridgeway, Ontario and a chunky bronzeback she caught while drop shotting soft plastics in Lake Erie’s East Basin. She mainly fishes the Canadian side of the lake, where bass season doesn’t begin until early summer. Anglers on the U.S. side of the lake also get to experience fishing through the stages of the spawn, which typically begin with a pre-spawn push to shallower water in April and run into June when the fish retreat back to the depths. The photo was taken by her boyfriend, fishing buddy and all-around lucky dude Matt Sirianni. Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events
VOLUME 22 • ISSUE 265
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APPAREL Product Review XTRATUF KRYPTEK ANKLE DECK BOOT Introducing the Kryptek Ankle Deck Boot from XTRATUF, a beloved fishing boot brand popular amongst recreational and commercial fisherman alike. XTRATUF boots are a gear staple of every man, woman and child in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest and beyond, not only for the protective properties that have made them must-have gear for boating, sailing and fishing enthusiasts, but as a fashion and trend statement around the world. This boot is a simple, wearable way to achieve a fashion-forward look in a truly iconic boot with significant brand heritage. New for spring 2017, XTRATUF and Kryptek, camouflage design innovators, are collaborating on a new deck boot collection that combines the technology of the popular XTRATUF Performance Ankle Deck Boot with sleek Kryptek camo designs, including the Yeti and Pontus patterns (MSRP $90). It features a 1mm Neoprene XpressCool bootie that surrounds the whole foot and ankle providing all day comfort. Like all XTRATUF footwear, the Kryptek Ankle Deck Boot is 100 percent waterproof, and it includes a boatload of performance features. • XpressCool lining to keep feet cool in warmer weather • Full-rubber, lightweight silhouettes • Slip-resistant chevron outsole • Pull-on tabs for easy on and off
WWW.XTRATUFBOOTS.COM
L.L. BEAN HYBRID FISHING SHIRT With a unique combination of fabrics, excellent ventilation and built-in sun protection, L.L. Bean’s Hybrid Fishing Shirt delivers unbeatable performance. This shirt is slightly fitted to provide on-thewater functionality while looking good. A relaxed fit through the chest and sleeve as well as stretchy knit upper arms with built-in articulation allow for a full range of motion when casting. A slightly slimmer waist keeps uneccesary fabric out of the way when you’re fishing. The Hybrid Fishing Shirt features a blend of woven and knit nylon and polyester with built-in UPF 50+ sun protection. It’s breathable, and a caped back for ventilation will keep you cool and comfortable during long days on the water. Polygiene treatment prevents the growth of odor causing bacteria to keep you from smelling worse than the fish you catch. L.L. Bean has designed a performance fishing shirt that looks as good as it performs on the water. Trim for attaching zingers and forceps and streamlined pockets for gear complete the package.
WWW.LLBEAN.COM
SCALESKINZ MULTIFUNCTIONAL HEADWEAR Capsmith Inc. is the No. 1 trusted source for fishing and outdoor enthusiasts with more than 32 years of experience in the headwear industry. Scaleskinz Multifunctional Headwear can be worn many different ways, and will attract all the right attention with colorful detail and sun protection. Scaleskinz feature a seamless tubular design that can be worn in 12 different ways, including a cap, scarf, facemask, headband, neck shade or shape it to fit your needs. This exclusive product offers maximum protection against sun, wind and rain. Scaleskinz are the perfect addition to retail stores that cater to fishing enthusiasts. Available designs include Dolphin, Tarpon, Marlin, Redfish and Bass. One Size Fits Most. For wholesale Scaleskinz inquiries, contact Capsmith Inc. at 1-800-228-3889, or buy online at www.ihatehats.com.
REEF CONTOURED CUSHIONED SANDALS
Reef has become the go-to purveyor of sandals that look as good as they feel on your feet. Their new Contoured Cushioned Sandals are so comfortable you might not even take them off to go to bed. These sandals feature molded rubber sponge footbeds, so you really are wearing pillows on the soles of your feet. Synthetic-nubuck-leather uppers are stylish and durable, and they are padded with jersey lining to feel super soft against your skin. Finally, these shoes are outfitted with anatomical arch support to keep you comfortable all day long, through any adventure. What more could you expect from a company that is world-renowned for making high-quality footwear for those who enjoy life on the water. Whether you’re headed offshore or to the tiki bar, Reef’s Contoured Cushioned Sandals will keep your feet looking as good as they feel.
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APPAREL Product Review PELAGIC BATTLE GLOVES Ever look at an old salt’s hands? Fishermen are right up there with mechanics for having the most abused hands out there. Pelagic, a company that designs clothing specifically for protecting anglers from the harsh marine environment, has the perfect solution for protecting your hands while they’re doing battle. Pelagic Battle Gloves give anglers an edge when fighting monsters of the deep. These heavy-duty “Sure Grip” fishing gloves are ideal for fishing heavy mono, braid or wire lines and are Kevlar reinforced for maximum protection from line cuts, blisters, sharp fins and teeth. Made with open fingertips for maximum dexterity and finger maneuverability, they protect your hands while allowing you to do the intricate work of rigging lines and baits and tying knots. These gloves increase angler endurance, yet are versatile enough to use for fish handling, bill grabbing, fish filleting, and many other offshore purposes. With Velcro security and stamped with the Pelagic deluxe logo, Battle Gloves are a must-have for any offshore adventure.
WWW.PELAGICGEAR.COM IN GOGS WE TRUST! The Kluch Signature Gog Tee features a simulated goggle eye portrait complete with $100 bill background and Kluch lettering. Available in a variety of styles, this shirt is built of a 100 percent ringspun cotton fabric for that true comfort fit. When it comes to sport fishing, having the right bait means everything! The “In Gogs We Trust” collection was inspired by those brutal days fishing tournaments and being down a release needing another bite to edge into first. After countless attempts of creating luck, teams turn to their wells in search of the best-looking bait to catapult them onto the podium. When all of a sudden the right short starts acting up and there he is!
BODY GLOVE 3T BAREFOOT WARRIOR
Many watersports require toe dexterity, and that’s where the Body Glove’s 3T Barefoot line of water shoes shines. Whether you’re a top athlete, a beginner, or somewhere in between, 3T Barefoot shoes are the perfect footwear for everything water. It doesn’t matter if it’s Stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking or just swimming off a rocky shore, the 3T Barefoot is up to the task. A patented three-toe design allows for dexterity in the toes that need it. A minimalist, neutral-balance foot bed allows for maximum ground feel while keeping your foot protected. Body Glove’s Integrated Drainage System (IDS) lets water drain out while preventing debris from entering the shoe. It can be worn either in or out of the water. Other features of the 3T Barefoot include adjustable shocklaces, easy slipon design, hybrid use for in or out of the water, zero heel lift, and the drainage system, which cools the foot with air circulation when out of water.
WWW.BODYGLOVE.COM OLUKAI PA‘A SANDALS
WWW.KLUCH.COM A good pair of sandals is as important to life on the water as a boat, maybe more important. The Hawaiian company OluKai knows this well, which is why they make footwear designed specifically for the ocean lifestyle. At the core of OluKai’s philosophy are quality, durability, comfort and craftsmanship, which means their sandals are crafted to perform and last. OluKai’s new PA‘A sandals were designed with on-the-water action in mind. Translated, PA‘A means secure in English, and these flip-flop-style kicks provide secure footing while battling fish from the deck of a boat or while scrambling out on a jetty to cast. They are fully adjustable on both straps with molded D-rings and micro hookand-loop to ensure a snug fit so the sandals won’t fall off your feet. Water resistant synthetic straps and soft, quick-drying jersey knit lining provide comfort in and out of the water. The footbed is crafted of anatomical, compression-molded EVA midsole with a brushed ICEVA drop-in. The outsole features a non-marking, wetgrip sticky rubber base enhanced with rubber pods for durability and maximum water traction. If you’re looking for a sandal that offers all-day comfort and secure footing in any situation, PA‘A sandals are about as good as it gets.
WICKED DRY & COOL PERFORMANCE SHIRTS Hook & Tackle, designers, manufacturers and distributors of authentic performance fishing apparel since 1963, introduces the new Wicked Dry & Cool collection. Designed with a breakthrough Wicked Dry & Cool proprietary fabric that wicks moisture while keeping you cool, the shirts feature radial sleeves for expansive arm movement. The extremely light yet durable fabrication offers UPF 50+ sun protection, quick dryness and odor resistance. Tested and proven to be the coolest shirts in the market, they are now available in four designs from sizes XS-3XL. For more information, contact Stan at srudman@sportailor.com or visit the site.
WWW.HOOKANDTACKLE.COM
WWW.OLUKAI.COM
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Lake Erie’s
Big Brown Bass L
By Nick Carter ake Erie boasts some of the best smallmouth bass fishing in the world. And over the nearly 10,000 square miles of surface area on this massive lake, the Eastern Basin offers some of the best habitat for bronzebacks. The Eastern Basin is the deepest part of the lake and is separated by a ridge that runs north to south from Long Point in Ontario, Canada to Erie, Pennsylvania. Buffalo New York sits on the eastern shore at the mouth of the Niagara River. Anglers visiting Niagara Falls would be foolish not to set aside a day for fishing the irregular near-shore topography that makes the Eastern Basin such a good fishery. Biologists see incredible growth rates from smallmouth in this area, and 5- to 7-pound fish are a regular occurrence. Kayla Culp, a teacher from Ridgeway, Ontario, has spent years patterning smallies on the Canadian side of the lake. In the Canadian waters of Erie, bass season is closed in spring to protect bedding fish. This is not the case for U.S. waters, where anglers take advantage of pre-spawn migrations as early as April. When the fish move up onto sand flats and chunk rock and into the bays and major tributaries in early spring, it is a time for bumping the bottom in 15 to 20 feet of water with spoons, tube jigs or blades. It can be a grind to find fish, but anglers who set up over a school will find plenty of action and potential for giant smallmouth bass. Lakewide, bed fishing is generally frowned upon. When the Canadian season opens in late June, smallmouth are typically feeding aggressively during their post-spawn transition to deeper water. Culp
said early summer is a fun time to fish the lake. Smallies will be on the weed edges, and they are susceptible to run-and-gun tactics or trolling with fast-moving lures like jerkbaits, spinnerbaits and crankbaits. Location is everything when fish are spread out over so much water. Some enjoy drift fishing to find fish. Culp said to trust your fishfinder and cruise, looking for rock-to-sand transitions. This is especially important as fish move deeper. In summer, big smallies will hang around structure or transitions just off the bottom. The depth can go from 10 to 15 feet in early summer out to 30 feet as the water warms. This summer bite is Culp’s favorite of the year. She enjoys drop shotting soft plastics and tubes into schooled-up fish. When it’s on, 30 fish or more from 2 to 5 pounds and larger are a definite possibility. A natural approach is best in Erie’s clear waters. Dark colors like green and brown make up the majority of Culp’s soft-plastic arsenal. This makes sense. It fits the color scheme of the round goby. These little bottom dwellers invaded the lake in the mid 1990s, and smallies developed a taste for them. Biologists have estimated that gobies account for up to 75 percent of an Erie smallmouth’s diet. The goby invasion is widely credited for accelerated growth rates of smallmouth in the lake. For more bass fishing on Lake Erie, go to
CAMFRESHWATER.COM
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The Freeport Meat Run
Lorem ipsum
An Annual Trip Of A Lifetime By Nick Carter
By CAM Staff - Photos Courtesy of Picture Perfect Charters
F
or some anglers, the fishing trip of a lifetime is an annual event. Team Finster, out of Fort Myers, Fla., fishes top offshore tournaments, but one of the highlights of their fishing year is an annual spring meat trip that coincides with the arrival of big yellowfin tuna in the Bahamas. Team member Pete Milisci, who operates Picture Perfect Charters out of Fort Myers, feels it’s well worth hauling Team Captain Zac Carpenter’s 34’ SeaVee three hours across the peninsula to launch off Florida’s east coast near Fort Lauderdale. Big yellowfin move through in late April and early May, and five guys spend the better part of the week chasing birds and filling fish boxes. The trip starts with provisioning and bait. As charter captains, team members begin saving and freezing leftover bait from charter trips a month in advance because chumming is key. They prefer fishing live bait, so the livewell is loaded with pilchards and threadfins before they leave. Provisions and gear are crammed into every available hold before they set out on what should be a couple hour run in front of twin Mercury Verado 300s across the Gulf Stream to Carpenter’s condo in Port Lucaya, Freeport, Grand Bahama. The crossing always takes longer than it should. It’s difficult for a boatload of anglers to pass up fish along the way. “Last trip, we had all the fish boxes full before we even got there,” Milisci said. “We came upon a whole tree adrift with mahi all over it. They were good mahi, too, all gaffers.” It’s a good thing there’s an ice machine at the condo. Even when cleaning fish at the dock, there is opportunity to put more meat on ice. Milisci said tarpon and big mutton snapper appear to clean up the scraps. Cooked whole and fresh, those snapper are fine eating. The main event begins after checking in with customs and unloading. “The fishing is right out front. It’s within 10 miles,” Milisci said. “You lose sight of land, and you’re in ’em.” Tuna move constantly, and they move fast. Finding fish is a matter of finding birds on the radar. Huge groups of birds are typically found over bonito, so Team Finster is looking for smaller pockets of birds that are a giveaway for tuna. They never pass a frigatebird without checking it.
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When fish are found, the boat is maneuvered in front of the anticipated direction of the school’s travel. The engines drop into neutral and heavy chumming begins with a month’s worth of frozen baitfish. “The fish are on the surface. They’re coming up blasting baits, and the birds are diving on the bait they push up,” Milisci said. “Sometimes you’ll see fins coming up on your bait.” When fishing in a maelstrom of 10- to 15-pound blackfin tuna and yellowfins weighing 30 to well over 100-pounds, it’s important to fish heavy gear. There are also sharks mixed in, and they will leave nothing but a fish head at the first hint of blood in the water. Anglers must crank hard and fast with 60w and 80w Penn Internationals spooled with 200-pound-test mono and 200- to 300-pound leaders. Anglers either reel fish in from the rod holder with bent-butt rods or fight them with a belt. Tuna will eat dead bait, but the team prefers presenting pilchards and threads on a slack line until they run out of live bait. Milisci said the fish are smart enough to let a bait go if they feel the slightest amount of tension on the line, so that slack is important until a fish eats. Then it becomes a grueling race against the sharks. The reward is almost immediate when a fish hits the deck. Wasabi and soy sauce are kept on-hand, and knives go to work while the rod-man catches his breath. For more on Team Finster or to contact Zac Carpenter or Pete Milisci, see finsterfishing.com. To book an inshore trip with Milisci out of Fort Myers, go to www.pictureperfectcharters.com. For highlights from this Tuna catch, go to
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MARCH 2017
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Spawning Phase Will Play A Big Role In Conroe Bassmaster Classic
K
elly Jordon is not a weatherman. He can’t say for sure what the conditions will be when 52 of the world’s best anglers descend on Lake Conroe, an hour outside of Houston, Texas for the GEICO Bassmaster Classic presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods, March 24-26. But as a Texas native and a 22-year veteran of the Bassmaster Tournament Trail, Jordon knows bass are likely to be in some phase of the spring spawn— and he said the angler who best identifies that phase is likely to be the winner of the event. “If I was going to guess—depending on what the weather does—I’d say we’ll be toward the final quarter of the spawn,” said Jordon. “There will still be some fish on the beds, but there will also be a lot of postspawn fish.” A spawn/postspawn scenario could provide a lot of options, and it could certainly lead to some giant fish being brought to the scales at the Houston Astros’ Minute Maid Park. Jordon said the bluegill will likely be coming up to spawn, and big bass can often be found feeding around bluegill beds. Male bass are also likely to be guarding recently hatched fry, and big females that are hungry from the spawn could be roaming the shallows. Though some bass are likely to still be on the beds, Jordon said he doesn’t expect sight fishing to be a dominant technique. “I don’t think somebody can win on sight fishing alone,” he said. “You’re likely to see several giant fish caught off beds or maybe a key 5-pounder at a time when someone really needs it. But I don’t think it’s something you’ll be able to totally hang your hat on.” As for the type of structure that’s likely to be most popular, Jordon said anglers will have their pick. “The water color will depend on how much rain we get and which part of the river you’re fishing,” he said. “The water way up on the upper end could be a lot more stained than the lower end. But when you get up there, you’ll find plenty of backwater stuff, some side creeks, some marinas, some residential
areas with canals, big gigantic flats—a little bit of everything.” The lower end of the lake could appeal to dock fishing specialists. “The lower half of the lake—if not more than half—is pretty much wall-to-wall boat docks and seawalls,” Jordon said. “Whether you want to fish shallow shoreline cover or deep shoreline Bassmaster Elite Series angler and cover, there’s tons of it Classic competitor Bradley Roy caught available. You can find this giant largemouth during pre-pracseawalls that may have tice on Lake Conroe. 10 feet of water around them. “You’ll find flat banks and deep banks. It’s a really dynamic place—and since we’ll be in the spring spawning season, the person who finds not only where the fish are, but where they’re headed, is going to be the one who’s in the best position to win.” With the phases of the spawn playing a major role and Conroe’s reputation for producing big bass, there’s a good chance there will be some 30-pound sacks brought to weigh-ins. For more on last years Bassmaster Classic, go to
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FLY FISHING
WADE FISHING ESSENTIALS
W
ade fishing is one of the most rewarding ways to target shallow-water fish like bonefish or redfish. However, there is more to wade fishing than just walking on a white sand flat or beach and casting to fish. To make the wade fishing experience more enjoyable, here are a few tips to help you make longer casts, protect your feet, blend into your environment, stay safe and catch more fish! Stripping Basket There is nothing more frustrating than fishing from the beach and having your fly line wrap and tangle around your legs and feet especially after you have made a perfect cast to a school of stripers, a corbina or surf perch. The simplest way to solve this problem is to invest in a stripping basket. Made from a variety of materials and available in many styles, a stripping basket will assist you in managing your line. Removing your concern for loose line will allow you more time to concentrate on improving your casting and distance. A stripping basket is not limited to beach fishing, either. More and more anglers are also accepting the value of the stripping basket on boats. A taller free-standing cousin to the wearable basket allows you to keep your line off the deck and avoid its many potential hang-ups including boat cleats, shoe laces, coolers and the other obstructions on a boat’s deck. Wading Footwear There are hundreds of different types of practical shoes for fishing. Select a shoe with high ankle support, a firm and solid toe and stiff arch support. Since you’ll be wading in a variety of bottom conditions from soft mud, soft sand, hard sand and even reefs or oyster beds, it’s a good idea to get a shoe that has a thick sole to prevent punctures. Blend In Blend into your environment. Match your clothes to your
surroundings. If you are fishing the beach, wear neutral colors like tan, light green or even brown. When fishing the flats, a light blue shirt, and stone-colored shirts or pants are your best choice. Also don’t overlook camouflage outfits when stalking spooky fish in shallow water. There are plenty of camo patterns on today’s market, and aside from looking good, wearing camouflage allows you to blend into the environment. Don’t Get Lost One of the worst fishing nightmares is becoming lost or disoriented on the ocean, on the flats or in a marsh’s maze. A handheld GPS can prevent this terrifying situation. Also, if you find an outstanding area where the fishing is red-hot, you can mark it in your GPS and return to the exact spot whenever you choose. Most GPS units contain moon phase and tidal information, which are keys to successful saltwater fly fishing.
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B
ass anglers use lipless crankbaits in many circumstances and ways. I believe it is not used enough for reds, trout, tarpon and snook. In fact, a lipless crankbait is one of the most effective baits to catch fish in shallow water, and it’s definitively one of those I use often. And I’m not alone. When Louisiana’s famous Team Broussard was at the very top of their tournament career a few years ago, “Cajun” Phil and Capt. Kevin had many wins including the Redfish Cup and Team of the Year titles. The secret weapon they were hiding from media and competitors alike was a Flatt Shadd 50 snagless. That small, compact, lipless crankbait puts out vibrations that travel far through the water, catching the predator’s attention as if it was of a much larger bait. The quick, side-to-side motion also creates a lot of flash, adding visual attraction. When I was the Mepps spinner designer 20 years ago, I worked closely with scientists who had an understanding of the factors that attract predatory fish. The type of vibration and its volume were key. Both with inline spinners and lipless crankbaits, moving a significant amount of water is essential for creating signals that are much larger than many other types of baits. This is why baits with spinning blades and those that emit vibrations commonly catch large fish, even when the lures are small. Often, a predatory fish is first alerted to a potential meal by its lateral line, a natural radar. These small baits fool the fish into thinking it is chasing down much larger and more significant prey. How do you use a lipless crankbait best when you’re on the flats or casting close to the mangroves? If it is deep enough, you can cast and burn it or slow roll it to offer consistent action and cover lots of water as a search bait. This is the main way I use a lipless bait when targeting tarpon or large channel bass (red drum) in main inlets, estuaries and anywhere there is enough depth and preferably some current. But for the true, shallow inshore and backcountry fishing, I use them as I would a soft jerkbait rigged on a jig head. I twitch-twitch-pause and yo-yo it. The great thing with a vibrating bait is every time you pull on the rod, you can feel the bait reacting. Action can be constant when fish are aggressive, but for cold water or finicky fish, don’t hesitate to let the lure pause on the ground for a few seconds here and there. You might be surprised to find the majority of bites happen on the drop, or even when the lure is lying motionless. Fish can be so hungry for it that they swallow it in a snap, resulting more than you can imagine in hook sets deep within the fish’s mouth. If you haven’t thrown a small lipless crankbait around in the shallows, give it a try. You might be pleasantly surprised. Patrick Sebile is the owner and lure designer of Sebile Innovative Fishing (www.sebile.com).
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For tips and techniques on fishing with lipless crankbait, go to
CAMSALTWATER.COM
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2/14/17 1:45 PM
FLORIDA
Why Just By Tom Karrow
Bonefish?
“While Pursuing bonesfish, many anglers overlook the boxfish.”
A
s a bonefish researcher in the Bahamas, I often hear “bonefish” anglers saying they only cast to bonefish while fishing the flats. Somehow this statement is supposed to elevate their angling prowess, but to me, these people are really missing out on fun and great learning opportunities. While bonefish seem to dominate the species that anglers pursue, there are a host of other fascinating creatures that inhabit similar ecosystems, each utterly fantastic to catch. If you are rigged for bonefish, do not hesitate to throw at a barracuda, jack or other fish you encounter. I often carry a larger fly for predators like barracuda and to quickly attach it, I simply use the hook of my bonefish fly through the eye of the larger fly to provide me with a quick tie, which can just as easily be removed. Species like jack and barracuda both offer great sport and are usually readily available. Look for barracuda in ambush locations, over dark patches, deep holes or cuts and remember to use wire or you will lose flies, lures or bait. I often blind cast into suspect areas, and the reward often outweighs these minor efforts! Tube flies or lures commonly fool barracudas, but I have caught them on just about everything, including bonefish flies. In addition to permit, jack and barracuda, mutton snapper, triggerfish, jacks, boxfish, puffer fish, needlefish and many other potential quarry roam the flats. Most bonefish anglers overlook these fish, but in pursuing them, anglers increase their chances of bending their rod. Fights from many of these species rival or even surpass those of a bonefish, and many times these species fill the emptiness in flats void of bonefish. They can be just as finicky or more so than bonefish and make great camera fare. Many of these species tail like bonefish, cruise behind rays like bonefish, and they can be as selective as bonefish or even more so. Triggerfish, pufferfish and boxfish have tiny mouths that require tiny flies on strong hooks and
usually a slow deliberate retrieve. These fish have tough mouths with loads of teeth perfect for grazing on coral; hooks must be sharp and strong. I have many times fought triggerfish for some time only to have the fly fall from their mouth as they come to hand. An interesting fact I have learned from several elder guides I have interviewed is that triggerfish are great table fare and their skin is highly abrasive. In days gone by, the skin of triggerfish was dried and used for scrubbing floors and general cleaning in many family island communities. For more on the research I have been undertaking in the Bahamas or to contact me, visit tomkarrow.wix.com/bahamas-guide-tek. Thanks to Coastal Angler Magazine for continued support of this research along with Bonefish and Tarpon Trust, The University of the Bahamas and BFFIA.
BluewaterSFC_half_pg_Mar2017 FOR PRINT.qxp_Layout 1 1/18/17 8:06 PM Page 1
For more about Tom Karrows work, go to
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Cool Water Wading
T
he water is still cool but the fishing can be hot. Strap on your waders and head for the Indian River Lagoon. Drainage from Okeechobee has stopped since fall, the water is clear and there are signs the grass might start coming back. North of Fort Pierce inlet has already shown signs of growth. Look for areas of rock kelp growing north near the first Vero Bridge. Early spring means pompano. They will be cruising the lagoon on deep-water edges for the next month and will take a 4-inch C.A.L. jig or smaller pompano jigs. Look for pompano skipping in the water. If you scare one to the surface, there will be more. Make sure to keep your jig bumping the bottom, which will also entice redfish and trout that like a slow presentation. Use a jig of 1/8-ounce or heavier. It’ll help keep your presentation on the bottom. Cool water also means bluefish and mackerel. Both are line cutters with sharp teeth. They school up and cruise the shorelines. Both like fast presentations and hit near the top. Move the jig quickly in areas with bait. Make sure you use pliers and keep your fingers out
of their mouths. As the water warms into the mid-70s, big snook start biting. In the spring, big females head for shallow water on the shoreline of the lagoon. Instead of catching 18- to 23-inch male snook, you’ll run into some over-slot females. You’ll find snook around the mangroves during high tide and around structure like walls and docks. Look for them to go shallow when the sun is up. Look for bait and try the St. Lucie River. The South Fork is good for numbers, and 10 snook a day is not unusual. Trout have been hard to find. Look to sandy points on the east side of the lagoon in the Stuart area. Higher tides are best. There are some trout in the Vero area if you wade the west side at Wilcox Road. High outgoing is best. The Moorings area is good on the east side if you can get access. Fishing for jack and ladyfish has continued to be excellent, and 20-jack days are typical. Jacks are schooling inside the sandbar. If you get a strike, you’ll probably get two more and catch one. The lagoon and river jacks have been averaging 1 to 3 pounds. They are very aggressive. I recently caught a jack when my lure was out of the water. Here’s a trick for fishing in high wind. If you have to fish in a crosswind, there’ll be a big bow in your line, and you’ll lose touch with your lure. Keep your rod tip down an inch or two above the water. Your line will be in the water except for a few feet at the rod tip. When your line’s in the water, the wind can’t bow it. For info on the Stuart Rod & Reel Club, call 336-414-3440. For more wade fishing in the Indian River Lagoon, go to
ANGLERSLIFE.CO
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Stuart, located in Martin County, is known as the Sailfish Capital of the World. Sitting on the most biodiverse estuary in the Northern Hemisphere, and the northernmost point of the South Florida Reef, Martin County is home to 100 artificial reef systems and over 800 species of fish. Its climate, waterways and natural environment make it a mecca for fishermen and nautical explorers year-round. An array of unique shops, fine restaurants, great golf courses and quiet beaches make a day ashore fun, too. Inshore, offshore, salt water or fresh, head out for an adventure and reel in the memories.
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Amazing 13,000 Mile Journey
A
male mako shark named Hell’s Bay has broken a record, traveling more than 13,000 miles, equal to over half-way around the planet, in 600 days. It is the longest track ever in the Atlantic Ocean by a mako shark tagged by researchers in Nova Southeastern University’s (NSU) Guy Harvey Research Institute (GHRI). “We’ve had some of our tagged makos take some pretty interesting tracks over the years, but this one swims above the rest,” said Mahmood Shivji, a professor at NSU and the director of GHRI. “Having Hell’s Bay report for as long as he has is fantastic because we’re able to really get a detailed look at mako migration behavior over a good amount of time. He was like the Energizer bunny—he kept going and going and going, and luckily did not get captured like many of our other sharks.” The 600-day track of Hell’s Bay mako can be seen at: nova.edu/ sharktracking (select Project 3). Hell’s Bay was tagged in May 2015 off the coast of Ocean City, Md. In the first year, Hell’s Bay traveled north along the east coast and then returned close to the tagging site. Hell’s Bay spent 2016 hanging around the coast of Maryland and taking jaunts throughout the Atlantic traveling east of Nova Scotia to just south of Bermuda before returning to Ocean City. In 2017, it repeated a similar path closer to the coast. Hell’s Bay showed clear seasonal patterns to its movements, spending the winter and early spring far offshore, and the rest of the year on or close to the continental shelf. The closest relative to the white shark, makos are the cheetahs of the shark species. As the fastest shark species, makos can swim up to 60 mph. The tags are funded by the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation (GHOF), a not-for-profit organization that conducts scientific research and hosts educational programs aimed at conserving the marine environment. “These satellite tags allow us to follow sharks in near-real time,” said
Greg Jacoski, executive director of the GHOF. “Understanding where these animals travel and the habitat that they use is the first step to better conserving the species.” Hell’s Bay was named after Hell’s Bay Boatworks, a boat manufacturer based in Titusville, Fla. The tag was sponsored by Capt. Chris Peterson, who owns Hell’s Bay Boatworks. A new GHRI study has just reported that 22 percent of the makos that have been satellite tagged were caught or killed by commercial or recreation fishermen. Shivji indicated that worldwide, sharks are being killed off in unimaginable numbers – some estimates say between 70100 million sharks per year. Clearly, that is not a sustainable level of removal, since many shark species, including makos, reproduce at low rates. For more information about the GHOF and GHRI, visit www. guyharvey.com. To see Hell’s Bay’s journey as well as other sharks tagged by GHRI researchers, visit nova.edu/sharktracking. For more about tracking Mako Sharks, go to
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s of March 1, it’s open season in all state waters for Florida’s favorite inshore fish: snook. On the Atlantic side, recreational snook season opened Feb. 1 in Florida’s Atlantic and inland waters from the Miami-Dade/Monroe County line north, including Lake Okeechobee and the Kissimmee River. In the Atlantic, anglers may keep one snook per day that is not less than 28 or more than 32 inches total length, which is measured from the most forward point of the head with the mouth closed to the farthest tip of the tail with the tail compressed or squeezed while the fish is lying on its side. A snook permit is required to keep snook, along with a saltwater fishing license, unless the angler is exempt from the license requirements. The harvest of snook in all of Florida’s Gulf of Mexico state waters, including Everglades National Park and all of Monroe County opened March 1. The limit on the Gulf side is one fish per angler, per day that is not less than 28 or more than 33 inches total length. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) encourages anglers to use moderation when determining whether or not to take a snook home. Researchers ask anglers who harvest the fish to save their filleted carcasses and provide them to the FWC by dropping them off at a participating bait and tackle store. For a county-by-county list, go to MyFWC.com/Research and click on “Saltwater,” “Snook” under the heading “Saltwater Fish,” and “Snook Anglers Asked to Help with Research.”
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2/14/17 11:48 AM
NAVICO ELECTRONICS CONNECTED GLOBALLY International marine electronics company, Navico, is bringing global connectivity to its GoFree product suite, providing boaters, fleet managers and service technicians the ability to monitor, log, transmit and report important vessel information in real-time around the globe. This upgrade is made possible through Vodafone’s Internet of Things Technology (IoT). With Vodafone’s global network and Global IoT SIM, Navico’s GoFree Track and GoFree Vessel products will be connected across the Americas, Europe, and Asia-Pacific regions for all types of marine vessels including local boats or cargo ships traveling internationally. With the connectivity, GoFree Track, an affordable hardware system, can track critical vessel information like engine hours, battery status, oil pressure, coolant temperature, fuel consumption and more. By tracking these on-board assets, boaters can instantly access details of potential mechanical problems and share them with technicians to service the specific area in need. Vodafone’s IoT technology allows GoFree Track to monitor bilge levels and alarms letting boaters know if the vessel is taking on water and allowing them to react accordingly, as well as notifying them when there is loss of shore power, which can drain batteries and potentially damage onboard systems that are running. All data collected is transmitted back to the GoFree Vessel online module for immediate viewing, giving consumers better access and control over vessel details. GoFree Vessel allows users to play back different boating trips to share with friends or service partners. GoFree Track is offered with a variety of communication options including the Track-WiFi or Track-CellFi, which leverages Vodafone’s Global SIM to connect users to 2G or 3G networks throughout the world.
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Spring Boat Shows
Mix Boats With Seafood And Live Music
S
pring boat shows really are easy as 1- 2- 3! Current Productions is bringing their unique twist to the boat show for three major boating markets. Current Productions has been producing successful marine events for 20-plus years. They are proud to kick off spring with The Southeast US Boat Show. This major event has been anchoring the spring boating schedule for many years, and that means it has evolved and improved beyond just acres of boats on display on land and in a marina filled with boats and yachts. Current Productions now puts what they have learned into the form of a very fun and cool twist on all three of their spring events. Jimmy Hill, show producer, explained that bringing the fun to the waterfront with a big music and seafood festival onsite at the same time as the boat show is the key to their success. Separating the commerce
area and treating the fun festivals as a major feature inside the shows works to make Current Production events that much better. Jacksonville, Fla. has been home to the region’s largest event, The Southeast US Boat Show, scheduled for April 21-23, and featuring The Oyster Jam Music Festival. It has become a huge deal with thousands of folks out on the riverfront jamming out to great live music, amazing food and the best boat deals around. Central Florida has always been its own boating hot spot, so it only made sense that the Daytona and Orlando boat dealers are gearing up for their own in-water, major boating expo—the Florida Boat Show and Dock Jam, the regions biggest boating event to be held May 19-21 at Halifax Harbor Marina and Grounds. The event features everything: boating, yachting, including all the accessories, and fun. But, don’t forget the music and seafood festival in an awesome setting right on the water at the best marina around. This event quickly established itself as the marine industries’ favorite for Central Florida and is expected to grow with more dealers and the bigger focus on the regions amazing seafood. It’s a must attend event for anyone in the area. The third event is the one that has everyone talking in the Panhandle this year—The Florida Panhandle Boat Show to be hosted at the City Marina in downtown Panama City this June 16-18. Locals know that this is the perfect weekend to catch the bulk of the boating community as they gather to enjoy the beautiful emerald waters of this part of Florida. The festival is live on the pier at the City Marina downtown. The boating industry is excited to bring the best deals to the best venue for the best show in the Panhandle. Activities and fun will center around the water and include great music on stage and the area’s best seafood vendors. The kids will enjoy the pier-side fishing experience, and there are seminars for the whole crew. For more information on all of these awesome events, visit currentproductions.us. For more about these great events, go to
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SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
Remembering
Jose Wejebe
By Capt. Cliff Lumpkin
F
riends, family and fellow anglers gathered the last weekend of January to remember the life and legacy of fishing legend Jose Wejebe who tragically lost his life in a plane crash in April 2012. Jose was the host of the extremely popular TV fishing show, “The Spanish Fly,” which highlighted the great fishing and areas of south Florida and the Florida Keys. Jose was surely known for his fishing prowess, but he was equally known for giving back to the community through charity organizations like Make a Wish Foundation, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, and the Red Bone Catch a Cure for Cystic Fibrosis, to name a few. It was in memory of this generosity that the Spanish Fly Memorial Foundation was formed to continue this important work. The Spanish Fly Memorial Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)3 charitable organization and honors Jose’s legacy by making fishing dreams come true for those who face life-impacting challenges. The Foundation not only provides
a once-in-a-lifetime fishing experience, but also exposes participants to the ecology that Jose cared so much about. To highlight these efforts, the Spanish Fly Memorial Foundation organized the annual #FishforJose event. This three-day event encourages the local community to take time to do something new by sharing a fishing experience with a friend or offering trade tips and techniques— anything that will help continue to spread Jose Wejebe’s mission of giving back. The event kicked off with a welcome party at the Square Grouper’s upstairs bar My New Joint in Cudjoe Key. Guests were greeted at the door by another Florida fishing icon and foundation board member Capt. Jim Sharpe. The evening was filled with great food and drinks, a silent auction and raffles and provided the opportunity for guests to share stories and memories of Jose. In attendance at the event were some of the wounded and injured veterans that have benefited from the hard work of the foundation. Day two was dinner at Jose’s with the Spanish Fly family. The invite-only dinner featured Cuban food, music provided by local musicians Terry Cassidy and the Key Lime Band and guest speakers like legendary guides and mentors Stu Apte, Steve Huff, dear friend Carter Andrews and daughter Krissy Wejebe. Day three encouraged participants to take the day to fish for Jose, post their stories on social media using #FishforJose and meet at the Saltwater Angler for an open bar, silent auctions and guest speakers from the fishing industry. The weekend was a huge success. Cliff Lumpkin is the co-publisher of the Florida Keys edition of Coastal Angler Magazine. To learn more about Jose’s passion and spirit, visit the tribute to Jose Youtube video at this link https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=zYPuTAQduMQ. To find out more about the organization or how you can help, visit the foundation’s website at www.josewejebefoundation.org. To learn more about Jose’s passion and spirit, watch a tribute here
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March Madness Inshore By Captain Terry Fisher
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his is the time of the year when I look forward to knowing I will not be disappointed with productivity. It is the beginning of spring and spring fever! In many areas, the revered snook again becomes a target for harvest. Their strikes will be ferocious after a “long winter’s nap.” Other species will become more aggressive with an abundance of baitfish. Tarpon may begin to make their annual migration to southwest Florida waters, accompanied by sharks. It is all about the water temperature. A consistent 68 degrees will guarantee at least some sizeable numbers of tarpon off of the beaches, in the passes and up the rivers. Sheepshead should still be available in larger numbers. They got a late start this year in southwest Florida due to the higher than normal water temperatures during early winter. Spanish mackerel, large jack crevalle, ladyfish and pompano will become happy and hungry. Large seatrout will become more numerous in the grass flats of open water and around the sand holes and turtle grass close to the spoil islands. This is the month to experience artificial baits for the gamefish. The abundance of live baitfish helps disguise these presentations. Fish seem less cautious coming out of their winter haunts with a new outlook on
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life. Some effective lures are topwater, twitch, crank, swimbaits, spoons and weedless presentations. They all work. While artificial presentations are effective, I submit that the use of live bait gives anglers the edge. I recommend certain types of live/cut baits for better results as follows: SNOOK: Freeline pilchards. Large snook will take threadfins as well. Pinfish and large shrimp are good back-up baits. TARPON: Freeline large, live threadfins, pinfish, mullet and ladyfish. Catfish fillets are good dead bait. SEATROUT: Shrimp suspended on a weighted jig head under a cork over the grass flats. Larger trout prefer pinfish (alive or cut) under a cork or freelined along the spoil and mangrove islands. SPANISH MACKEREL: Shrimp is a cheap and easy way to target these fish. Suspend them under a cork with a long 30-pound leader or light wire. POMPANO: Tip a ‘silly willy’ jig with a shrimp or fish shrimp under a cork for an occasional by-catch. JACK CREVALLE: Shrimp on a jig head or freelined will catch these ferocious fish. Light tackle should always be used for the enjoyment of the catch. However, be sure the equipment is strong enough so as not to exhaust the fish if not harvesting. I suggest, for gamefish like snook or redfish, a 3500 to 4000 series reel mounted on a medium heavy rod with 15-pound-test line and a 30-pound fluorocarbon leader. Use size 1/0 to 3/0 circle hooks. Tarpon fishermen should utilize 6000 series reels mounted on a heavy rod with 65-pound-test line and 100-pound fluorocarbon leader. Use size 6/0 to 8/0 circle hooks. One should consider lighter tackle for all other inshore species mentioned above, as well as for mangrove snappers and flounder. Use 2500 to 3000 series spinning reels on a light rod, 10-pound-test line with a 20-pound leader and small 1/0 circle hooks. Capt. Terry Fisher of Fish Face Charters can be reached at 239357-6829 or fishfacecharters@yahoo.com. He is available as ‘Captain for Hire’ by the hour on your vessel for navigation, fishing locations and techniques that will ensure enjoyable boating and fishing.
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Attention Advertising Sales Reps Have you ever wondered what it would be like to own the media company that you were selling advertising for? Ever considered how different your life would be if you didn’t have to hand over the bulk of your sales revenue to your employer? Have you ever thought about how much easier your sales job could be if you didn’t have to beg your sales manager for every little extra thing that you wanted to give your customer? Ever wondered what it would be like to control your own time? You don’t have to wonder anymore. Coastal Angler and its freshwater component The Angler Magazine are offering magazine franchises throughout the continental U.S. and abroad. Now, you can be the publisher and completely control the advertising department of your magazine. After nine years of franchising this magazine and with 42 current locations, we can say with confidence that these home-based magazine locations can be opened in nearly any location with a minimum population base of 500,000 and an active angling community. We have also identified our ideal candidate as being someone with previous media sales experience. Male or female, success in this endeavor is gauged more on advertising sales than fishing prowess.
Michigan Offers $1 Mil To Stop Asian Carp
If you are a current or former media advertising sales rep, you owe it to yourself to check out our franchise opportunities. For more information, call 888-800-9794 or email info@ coastalanglermagazine.com.
Photo by Jason Jenkins
T
he Michigan Department of Natural Resources has put out a global call to the public, offering $1 million for the best proposal to stop invasive Asian carp from reaching the Great Lakes. These carp are the ones everyone knows from videos of big fish jumping in the air when startled by passing boats. They are fast-growing filter feeders that can reach weights up to 100 pounds, and they are highly prolific, producing as many as a million eggs. They have the potential to disrupt entire ecosystems, and have been called an immediate and grave biological threat to the Great Lakes. Currently, silver and bighead carp are backed up in Chicago waterways just 10 miles from Lake Michigan at three electric barriers. Despite these barriers and rotenone treatments, which kill all fish species in an area, environmental DNA testing suggests that some silver and bighead carp have made it past the barriers toward Lake Michigan. Researchers predict bighead and silver carp pose a significant threat to disrupt the food chain that supports the native fish of the Great Lakes, such as walleye, yellow perch and lake whitefish. Such a disruption may result in diminished recreational and commercial fishing opportunities. The Associated Press reports that the federal government recently approved $42 million to prevent these carp from reaching the Great Lakes. If you are the one with the million-dollar idea that will stop the scourge, submit proposals at www.michigan.gov.
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Media Sales Representatives wanted immediately for fishing magazine franchisee opportunity. Must have 2 to 5 years media sales experience. Dependable transporation, a love of the outdoors and a good solid work ethic. Type A’s welcome.
For Information Contact Editor in Chief Ben Martin at 888-800-7974 or email at camads@coastalanglermagazine.com
2/14/17 5:02 PM
Naples • Marco Island • Everglades • Immokalee • Bonita Springs • Estero
www.coastalanglermag.com/naples
MARCH 2017
Free Kids Fishing Clinic See Naples pages 4 & 15
Capt. Jim Kalvin
In the Wake
See Naples page 24
Paradise Reef
See Naples page 11
Bill D’Antuono with a recent black grouper catch. Article on page 23. Photo submitted by Bill D’Antuono.
PUBLISHER & EDITOR Mike Weber
ARTIST
Lauren Zimmer Member of:
CAM Naples 201703.indd 1
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Bill D’Antuono Brent Bensmiller Capt. Andrew Border Mac Hatcher Capt. Brian Hayhurst Executive Chef Corey Heath Capt. Jim Kalvin
CONTACT INFORMATION
Capt. Paul Nocifora For advertising inquiries, editorial comments, article submissions, press releases, calendar Capt. Billy Norris updates, photography, artwork and all other John Paeno inquiries, please contact: Capt. Pete Rapps Tiffany Sawyer-Schank Mike Weber • (414) 531-4172 Capt. Roan zumFelde
MikeW@coastalanglermagazine.com
2/13/17 9:54 PM
FROM THE PUBLISHER MIKE WEBER
Dear Readers, 28 Years of Excellence in Service, Performance and Customer Satisfaction!
WITH OVER 28 YEARS IN BUSINESS AND 43 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
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The Coastal Angler Magazine that you are reading is part part of of aa franchise franchise publishing publishing system system that spans reading is 18 markets in Florida, New England and the Northeast, that spans 18 markets in Florida, New England and the the Southeast, the Gulf and even Costa Rica and the Bahamas. In Northeast, the Southeast, the Gulf and even Costa Rica and the total, we have 40 franchise locations. This Naples edition that you are that reading one of those andlocations I am its publisher. edition you isare reading is locations one of those and I am its publisher. I have enjoyed publishing our Naples edition for the past I have enjoyed publishing our Naples edition the past three years. It’s been personally rewarding andfor profitable. Unfortunately, I can no longer perform the duties associated Unfortunately, longer duties associated with publishingI can thisno great littleperform fishing the magazine and must find a buyer for the Naples Coastal Angler Magazine franchise. a buyer for the Naples Coastal Angler Magazine franchise. Everything is in place and running smoothly. This is very much business opportunity opportunity and and the the new new owner much aa turnkey turnkey business owner will be supported as I have been by an excellent will be supported as I have been by an excellent franchisor franchisor organization. If you love the outdoors and think you would organization. enjoy running your own business, would likeenjoy to encourage If you love the outdoors and thinkI you would running you to check out this franchise bytocontacting your own business, I would like to opportunity encourage you check out our Corporate Office at 888-800-9794 or email info@ at 888-800-9794 or email info@coastalanglermagazine.com. coastalanglermagazine.com. You’ll be You’ll be glad glad you you did. did. II know know I’m I’m glad glad II did. did. Sincerely, Mike Weber Co-Publisher Naples Edition of Coastal Angler Magazine 414-531-4172 • mikew@coastalanglermagazine.com
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FISHING FORECAST
CAPT. PETE RAPPS
M
Chokoloskee, Everglades City, & the Everglades National Park
arch is here and we can typically expect some breezy days the first half of the month, waning down to some incredibly calm days as the month progresses. Water temperatures should pop up into the low 70’s this month, with air temperatures in the high 70’s to low 80’s The full moon this March falls on the 12th and the new moon is on the 28th. March is another month with some low tides around the full and new moon. We will have some very low tides the mornings of the 10th- -13th, and the 24th-28th. Be sure to do your tide chart research if fishing those days. Some anglers choose to avoid fishing during some of these extreme negative low tides. Looking at the moon phases, tides, and the Solunar calendar, I like what I see for peak bite days on the 10th – 15th and the 24th – 28th. Refer to my website where I have a page with monthly Solunar peak bite times. Redfish will be around and will be hanging around oyster bars & hard bottom. I like to use live shrimp under a popping cork for the reds on an incoming tide. Snook will be a fantastic sport fish to target in March, especially later in the month as the water warms up and they begin to head out of the deep back country on their annual migration back to the outside. Live pilchards are my favorite bait for them. If you like to venture a little offshore, look for permit and cobia as the water warms. Permit will gladly accept a small 1” live crab on a 4/0 circle hook. Cobia will hit many types of jigs and bait like a large bucktail jig with a rubber tail, many top water plugs, plastic eels, and live bait like pinfish, pilchards, thread herring, and mullet. I hope that these forecasts serve as educational and beneficial to you, and that they will help you become a better angler. If you have any questions or would like to book an instructional charter with any of the amazing captains on our fleet, please contact us at the below email. I also conduct free instructional seminars and lessons to various groups, clubs, tackle shops, and other venues throughout the year. You can see a list of these on my website.
Charters and Guides The friendliest and most knowledgeable captains
Family Friendly back country and flats fishing & tours in the 10,000 Islands of the Everglades National Park. Departing from Everglades City, Chokoloskee, and Goodland, FL Custom 4, 6, and 8 hour trips. Morning and afternoon start times
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Captain Rapps’ Charters & Guides offers year round expert guided, light tackle, near shore, and backwater fishing trips in the 10,000 Islands of the Everglades National Park, and spring time Tarpon-only charters in the Florida Keys. Capt. Rapps’ top notch fleet accommodates men, women, & children of all ages, experienced or not. Between our vast knowledge & experience of the area, and easy going demeanors, you are guaranteed to have a great day. Book your charter 24/7 using the online booking calendar, and see Capt. Rapps’ first class web site for Booking info, Videos, Recipes, Seasonings, and more at www.CaptainRapps.com.
In the e B Know
LOCAL TIDE CHARTS can be found online at www.freetidetables.com For current FLORIDA FISHING REGULATIONS and to buy a FLORIDA FISHING LICENSE visit the FWC website at www.myfwc.com FLORIDA FISHING LICENSES can also be purchased by calling 888-347-4356 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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MIACC
Chef Corey
TIFFANY SAWYER-SCHANK
Marine Industries Association of Collier County
at The Dock at Crayton Cove Executive Chef Corey Heath
Naples, Florida
FREE KIDS’ FISHING CLINIC PROMISES DAY OF LEARNING, FUN
T
Salmon Gravlax
Ingredients:
• 2 pounds whole filet of • 2 tablespoons sugar salmon (skin on, no bones or • 1 teaspoon freshly ground scales) pepper • 3 tablespoons salt • 1 bunch chopped fresh dill
eaching children a lifelong hobby, instilling appreciation for our marine environment and providing fun, family outings are the objectives for the Kids’ Fishing Clinic in Naples on March 11th. The Marine Industries Association of Collier County Foundation, along with Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will offer a free Kids’ Fishing Clinic for children between the ages of 5 and 15 from 9 a.m. to noon March 11 at Naples Pier, 25 12th Avenue S. This free clinic enables young people to learn the basics of conservation stewardship, fishing ethics, angling skills and safety. In addition, environmental displays will offer participants a unique chance to experience Florida’s marine life firsthand. The Kids’ Fishing Clinic strives to achieve several goals, but the main objective is to create responsible marine-resource stewards by teaching children about the vulnerability of Florida’s marine ecosystems. In addition, organizers hope to teach fundamental saltwater fishing skills and provide participants a positive fishing experience. Fishing equipment and bait are provided for kids to use during the clinic, but organizers encourage children who own fishing tackle to bring it. A limited number of rods and reels will be given away to participants upon completion of the clinic. If conditions allow, participants will have the opportunity to practice their new skills and fish from the pier. This event is a photo catch-and-release activity. An adult must accompany all participants. Individuals or companies interested in helping sponsor this event or volunteering at the clinic should contact the MIACC Foundation Event Coordinator, Tiffany Sawyer-Schank at 239-6820900 or email foundation@miacc.org.
For more information about the MIACC and the MIACC Foundation, or for a schedule of events, visit www.MIACC.org or contact Tiffany Sawyer-Schank, MIACC Executive Director, at (239) 682-0900 email: director@miacc.org. Like the Facebook Fan page for up to date information facebook.com/MarineIndustries.
Directions:
1. Mix salt, sugar, and pepper and place half the mixture in a 9 x 12 glass pan 2. Coat the salmon with chopped dill and place skin side down in the salt mixture 3. Pour the rest of the salt mixture over top of the salmon 4. Cover with plastic wrap and leave in fridge for 3 days turning over each day 5. Rinse the salmon and dry 6. Slice thin and enjoy Corey Heath is the Executive Chef for both The Dock Restaurant at Crayton Cove and the Riverwalk Restraurant at Tin City where he has worked for over 10 years. Chef Corey can be contacted at chefcoreyatcraytoncove@gmail.com or @coreyoheath.
PURE FLORIDA EVENTS FOR MARCH Pure Florida Specialty Cruises
Date/Time
Location
Details
Saint Patrick’s Day Buy one, get one free drinks!
March 17 All cruise times book online!
Tin City, Naples The Marina at Edison Ford, Fort Myers
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on the water! Buy one, get one free drinks are available on every sightseeing, river or sunset cruise in Fort Myers or Naples. Book online at PureFL.com.
Bark on the Ark
March 25 8 am - 11:30 am
The Marina at Edison Ford, Fort Myers
Guests and dogs are welcome on board the M/V Edison Explorer for a river cruise and playtime at a nearby beach!
Free Kids Cruise
Every Saturday in the Naples 10 am - 11:30 am
Tin City, Naples
Free child admission on the 10 am sightseeing cruise in Pure Florida's Naples location. Free child admission valid with purchase of full adult ticket.
Book online at PureFL.com! Call 239.263.4949 for reservations in Naples. Call 239.919.2965 for reservations in Fort Myers. Call 239.574.0804 for reservations in Cape Coral. See Pure Florida ad on page 5.
4 NAPLES | MARCH 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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Backwater Fishing Experience with Pure Florida
I
CAPT. ANDREW BORDER
f you have been to Naples, Florida, either for vacation or just stopping through, one thing is absolute – you either went fishing or thought about going. Naples is a prime fishing location that has both deep-sea and calm water, back-bay fishing. If you’re looking for an opportunity to get out on the water and experience both types of fishing, Pure Florida offers the best of both worlds with head boats and private charters that passengers of all ages can enjoy. When fishing the backwaters of Naples with Pure Florida, you have the option of either taking the Naples Explorer or the Kudu II. The Naples Explorer, a head boat, can accommodate up to 17 passengers and the Kudu II, a private charter, is offered to parties as small as one and as large as six. Private charters offer an isolated experience for guests to fish or spend quality time with friends or family, for up to eight-hours. In addition, the private charters offer a one-on-one experience with the captain and crew. Both Pure Florida experiences offer great fishing adventures for friends, family, kids and adults. During fishing trips, we target fish that originate from the mangroves, estuaries and reserves. You might wonder, “What kind of fish are we going to catch?” Depending on the season that you decide to go fishing, the backwaters of Naples are thriving with a variety of fish. Although you can find different types of species year-round, during certain months it is easier to find certain fish that you may be in search of. In the winter months, you will begin to see the larger sheepshead, trout and pompano moving throughout the backwaters. These species of fish can typically be found in deeper holes or structures in or along the mangroves. Although the snook, redfish and tarpon are harder to catch during the winter, they are still around. When targeting redfish, it is important to search for oyster beds, grass flats and sand bars. These locations are where the redfish tend to gather because of the warm waters and typically where they eat. When backwater fishing, most people target the snook because they tend to sit still in moving water or currents. When searching for snook, target the mouths of rivers especially at the points. Redfish and snook are a few of Southwest Florida’s backwaters most sought after fish. Redfish and snook put up a great fight and if they are in season, also taste great. Whether you are out fishing on your own or taking a backwater charter, having the right tackle is vital to having a successful fishing trip. Using a spinner reel with a good medium fast action rod is my favorite, 15-20 lb. braid or lighter line with about a 2-3 ft. leader of fluorocarbon. You will need a variety of different size hooks, as well as weights. Lures or soft plastic jigs also work well. You can use key points, such as researching size, weight and different types of bait to ensure that you are getting the most out of your fishing experience. Overall, if you’re looking for a great adventure then fishing the backwaters of Naples will be an experience you will never forget. Naples offers some of the best fishing and even a bad day of fishing is better than a great day at work. So, the next time you find yourself in the Naples area, come on down to Pure Florida and let us give you an experience of a lifetime.
Experience Pure Fishing with Pure Florida
“I’ve been fishing with Pure Florida for 10+ years. Their captains and crew are topnotch and truly care about the anglers onboard.” - Nick Clemente
Private Fishing Charters
Sunrise & Sunset Fishing Calm Bay & Coastal Fishing
All trips include boat, license, expert crew, tackle, bait, fish cleaning and bagging. DOCKED AT HISTORIC
1200 5th Ave S. Naples, FL 34102
239.263.4949
DOCKED AT
2360 W. 1st Street Fort Myers, FL 33901
239.919.2965
RESERVE ONLINE TODAY! www.PureFL .com
Andrew Border is a Jr. Captain for Pure Florida. Born and raised in Naples, FL, he has a certified USCG 6-pack license. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CAM Naples 201703.indd 5
Deep Sea Fishing
#GoPureFL | MARCH 2017 | NAPLES 5
2/13/17 9:54 PM
The
GUIDED TOURS • RENTAL (FREE DELIVERY) • FISHING TOURS BIRD WATCHING • SHELLING/SEA SHELL HOTSPOTS CHURCH OUTINGS • SCHOOL ECO TOURS• MANGROVE TOURS
S
CALL 239.301.8888
TODAY!
WWW.PADDLENAPLES.COM
Brent Bensmiller, the owner of Paddle Naples, is an expert at kayak fishing the local waters. He is available for kayak fishing charters and lessons. Watch for Brent’s monthly Kayak Fishing Report in the Coastal Angler Magazine.
Kayak Fishing Report BRENT BENSMILLER
pring is quickly approaching which means the water temperature and the bite will continue to get hotter. We should see more and more whitebait along the beaches and migratory fish heading back north towards the end of the month. Snook will start heading to the inlets and beaches in search of the smaller baits, so matching your lure size and color will be crucial. Throwing a small chartreuse or white artificial should get the job done for snook as well as many other species. Fishing the mangroves should be solid during this time of year. You can expect to catch numerous species of fish within a few hours if you find the right spot. The bay will be warming up to the mid 70’s and will start to hold much more bait. The grass will start to grow again on the flats, which will hold crabs and shrimp that many of these game fish are looking to feed on. Using a popping cork with a live shrimp hanging underneath will be lethal in this area. The reds and trout will be lurking on the flats looking for an easy meal so get ready for some rod bending action. Kayak fishing in the gulf can take a bit more patience but the rewards are much greater. If you are looking to hook up to a monster the time has arrived. Tarpon will be showing up around the inlets and beaches later in the month. Get out at sunrise and look for rolling tarpon or frigates flying up above to locate these schools of fish. Drifting pinfish, mullet, or whitebait will get their attention quickly. There will also be blacktip sharks in the mix, so if you keep getting cut off, tie on some heavier leader and make sure to use circle hooks. The bite will continue to heat up throughout March so get out there and catch em’ up!
You can reach Brent by email at brent@paddlenaples.com or by phone at 239301-8888. Check out www.paddlenaples.com for more info!
Premium Game and Sporting Guns
Friendly, Expert Sales and Service
Photo submitted by Brent Bensmiller.
Beretta, Caesar Guerini, Fabarm and Perazzi
•Beretta Premium Dealers • Beretta Parts & Wood Sets •Fine Gun Repair • Custom Shotguns • Custom Stock Work New Naples, Florida Showroom and Gunsmithing Facility Open Now!
Now Accepting Quality Consignments Naples, Florida 5740 Shirley St., Naples, FL 34109 • 239.352.0345 Harpswell, Maine 207.833.5027 • 1.800.650.COLE (2653)
Dave showing off a sheepshead he caught on a recent Charley’s Charter trip. Photo submitted by Capt. Bohely.
Visit Us Online at: www.colegun.com 6 NAPLES | MARCH 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CAM Naples 201703.indd 6
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ARINA MMIKE’S
YOUR NEW AND PRE-OWNED SUPERSTORE
CALL TODAY! (239) 267-0725 FAMILY OWNED
Marina Mike's is a family owned and operated marine dealership serving Southwest Florida for nearly 40 years! We are a family passionate about boating and fishing in Florida and have the experience necessary to help guide you to your perfect boat for our very unique Florida boating environment. Come visit us today and see why Marina Mike's is your best choice for all of your boating and fishing needs!
BOAT SALES & SERVICE
If your interests are fishing, diving, water skiing, picnicking or just cruising around the Bay, Marina Mike's has a boat for you. We sell Bennington, Blue-Wave, Carolina Skiff, Contender, Epic, Seafox, New, Pre-owned Boats and more! We are a Yamaha 5 Star Dealership. We are a full service facility with factory trained technicians, highly trained in all aspects of engine diagnostics and repair. Our focus has always been customer service of the highest quality. Marine Financing available!
www.marinamikes.com
19300 S Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, FL 33908
CAM Naples 201703.indd 7
2/13/17 9:54 PM
GRILL & CHILL WITH
Enter our Grand Prize Raffle for the Chance to WIN a
YOUR OUTDOOR LIVING HEADQUARTERS JOIN US for our upcoming Grill & Chill event featuring
a grilling demo and sampling, ice cold refreshments, specials offers, giveaways, raffles and more! Naples, East Naples, Golden Gate & Marco Island
SATURDAY, MARCH 18 GRILLING DEMO 10AM – 4PM
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT SUNSHINEACE.COM/EVENTS Dr William Sullivan, DDS
2014
7 Years Running
Your Smile. Your Health.
HAPPY ANGLER SMILE OF THE MONTH
Missing Teeth? Loose Dentures? Need a cleaning? Dental Emergency? Second Opinion? Specializing in: Implant Dentistry Cosmetic Dentistry Emergency Dentistry
SCHEDULE YOUR VISIT TODAY! 239.597.4944
Zachary proudly shows off his first
Sponsored by
African Pompano, caught last month in Islamorada
DentistryofNaples.com 8 NAPLES | MARCH 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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EVERGLADES CITY & CHOKOLOSKEE
Whether you are local or just visiting...
EVERGLADES BAIT & TACKLE SPECIALIZING IN TACKLE FOR FISHING THE EVERGLADES
OPEN AT 6AM
239-695-0202 • 101 Buckner Ave S. • Everglades City, FL 34139
www.evergladesbaitandtackle.com
Deep Sea Tours, Guides Tours, Bike & Camping Equipment Rentals, Live Bait
239-695-2628 CALL FOR RESERVATIONS/INFORMATION
10% Off Coupon
10% Off applied to all purchases with this coupon at the Glades Haven Marina, Glade Haven Convenience Store & Deli or The Oyster House Restaurant. Discount excludes fuel & liquor. Present ad with purchase for discount.
“Specializing in Light Tackle Inshore Fishing” Captain Brandon • 239-253-9926 • www.evergladescityfishingcharters.com
GLADES REALTY “Your Everglades Connection”
KAREN COCHRAN Broker/Owner
207 West Broadway P.O. Box 599 www.GladesRealty.com
Capt. Dean Murphy with a nice king mackeral. Pure Florida photo.
MARCO ISLAND TIDE CHART Florida, Naples, Marco Island, Caxambas Pass
March 2017
N 25° 54.5' / W 81° 43.7' Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
1
Wednesday 6:50a
1:59a 8:21a
6
6:46a
6:31p 5:46p
6:55a 0
7:39a
12:02a 0
13
7:35p
7:40p
7:26a 7:43a
19
7:32a
12:09a
26 12:04a 0
27 7:41p
6:24a 6:28a
6:38p 6:27p
2:43a
28 (New) 7:42p 1:27a
1:14p 7:19p
7:02a 7:10a
7:28p
29 7:42p
1:42p
7:40a 7:53a
8:31p
4:17a
30 7:43p
8:18a 8:36a
9:35p
9:22a
5:16p
5:44a
7:43a
0
1:03a
7:24a
3:17p
9:35p 10:40p
9:37a
©2017 FreeTideTables.com - For comparison only - Times are local - Tides in feet from MLLW
2:04a 0
0
27 7:41p
6:28a
9:46p 6:27p
7:10a
7:39p
28 (New) 7:42p
3:27a 10:27p
7:28p
29 7:42p
7:53a
11:10p 8:31p
7:43p
11:26a 8:36a
1:29p
0
25 7:40p 1:22a
1:48p 8:24p
8:11a
2:17p 8:52a
0
4:28p
31
7:43p 4:41p 12:05p
9:22a
6:02a 12:43a
12:45p
0
10:40p
©2017 FreeTideTables.com - For comparison only - Times are local - Tides in feet from MLLW
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CAM Naples 201703.indd 9
9:35p
7:35a 2:16a
10:49a 7:27a
5:02a
3:32p
7:20a
5:03a 11:55p
1:12p
12:36a 7:41p
7:26a
30
4:10p
4:12a
24 7:40p
4:17a
2:38p
7:21a
10:11a
1:16p
6:51p
6:07p
1:27a 11:22p
7:28a
11:40p
12:37p 6:35a
3:42p 10:48a
23 7:40p
3:30a
1:46p
7:22a
9:34a
7:37p
6:34a
12:47p
12:44a 10:30p
7:29a
10:31p 5:46p
5:36a
3:14p 10:10a
22
11:34a
2:43a
12:58p 7:23a
2:45a
2:46p 9:32a
9:06p
1:55p
1:53a
8:58a
5:33p
5:43a
12:17p
12:05a 9:38p
7:30a
7:39p
5:02p
0
8:54a
18
7:34a
7:37p
2:12p
4:58p
5:21a
17
7:35a
7:36p
4:59a
11:45a
21
10:08a 4:27a
12:12p
26
11:27p
8:21a
7:42p
4:32p
7:36a
8:24p
8:12a
4:00p
4:35a
16
1:21a
1:48p
7:37p
7:24a
3:00p
3:45a
7:36p
4:19a
8:45p
7:31a
1:33p
3:17a
4:04p 11:10a
7:38p
7:37a
7:35p
20 (3rd)
8:46a 0
7:43p 4:02a
10:48p 7:51p
7:32a
12:17p
7:38a
3:41a
3:37p 10:34a
7:40p 11:22p
7:35p
6:43p
11
6:34p
12:35a
1:25p
0
11:50p
6:41a
6:33p
1:40p
1:56a
10:28a
10:48p
6:42a
7:22a
12:49p
12:52a
10
11:42p
12:58p
15
9
6:30p 5:41p
6:02a
12:07p
Saturday
4
6:48a
5:01p
9:43a
6:33p
6:31a
2:01p
2:51a
14
9:45p
Friday
3
6:29p
4:55a 11:58p
6:43a
5:40p
5:31a
1:03p
1:53a
7:39a
0
19
4:28p
31
0
25
11:48a
5:02a
2:41p 8:57a
11:08p
7:27a
5:03a
3:32p
7:20a
3:03a
8:47p
4:33p
10:21a
4:25p
6:49a
6:29p 4:27p
10:36p
12:17p
Thursday
2
11:29a
6:32p
9:15p
10:47a
13
2:02a
5:35a
10:49a
10:36p
11:16a 4:18a
2:10p
7:40p
6:50a
8
6:44a
6:32p
4:24a
12:08p
12 (Full)
7:37p 4:07p
7:46p 2:57p
3:09a 12:52a
18
10:04a
11:22p
7:28a
0
7
6:45a
6:31p
8:55a 0
5:46a
6
6:46a
12:12p
4:58p
4:34a
24
5 (1st)
11:21p 5:16p
7:34a
10:19p
10:11a
9:40p
2:38p
7:21a
2:12a
8:02p
7:40p
3:43p
3:30a
1:46p
7:22a
23
10:37a 3:27a
3:33p 9:39a
Wednesday
1
0
6:34p
5:21a
7:37p
3:43a
10:30p
7:29a
8:31p 2:38p
7:35a
9:36p
9:34a
7:39p
9:34a 2:28a
12:58p
9:38p
7:30a
7:36p
Tuesday
8:59a
11
11:48a
17
Monday
0
11:50p
5:04a
4:00p
4:35a
16
9:09a
22
4:16a
3:02p
2:59a 8:57p
8:58a
7:06p
7:23a
12:45a
12:46p
7:39p
10:47a
1:53a
12:12p 7:24a
21
8:08a 1:19a
8:37a
8:45p
7:31a
5:42p
10:25a
1:03a
8:19p
8:21a
7:38p
2:32p
4:29p
Sunday
3:59a
10:32a
10:48p
6:41a
10:35p
11:25a
3:00p
7:36a
7:36p
2:19a
20 (3rd)
6:46a 0
2:04p 8:02a
7:51p
7:37a
6:33p
March 2017
N 25° 51.5' / W 81° 23.2'
5:22a
10:28a
10
Florida, Naples, Everglades City, Barron River
6:30p
9:41a
10:48p
6:42a
9:42p
3:35p
3:45a
15
9
EVERGLADES TIDE CHART
Saturday
4
3:41p
4:02a 9:44p
9:43a
6:33p
10:58a 3:23a
2:01p
2:51a
7:35p
1:41a
1:37p
2:32p
9:45p
6:43a
8:36p
10:17a
14
7:38a
6:32p
2:23a
1:03p
1:53a
8
6:44a
7:15p
1:17p
1:16a
12:08p
12:52a
12 (Full)
6:32p
8:47a
11:49a
12:01a
7
6:45a
6:48a
6:29p
8:59a
8:50p
Friday
3
3:01p
2:55a
8:59a
5 (1st)
6:49a
6:29p 2:27p
0
Thursday
2
239-695-4299 (Bus) 239-777-6614 (Cell) Karen@GladesRealty.com
| MARCH 2017 | NAPLES 9
2/13/17 9:54 PM
FISHING FORECAST CAPT. ROAN ZUMFELDE
M
Celebrating 45 Years in Business!
Jig of the Month
Naples “Best” Custom Jigs
by Mike’s Bait House & Indian Pass Outfitters
7 oz. 200 Gram Deep Drop Lead Jig reat for any offshore species including grouper, G amberjack, awh just about everything will eat it. Many colors to choose from but this is the Pulley Ridge favorite. Also available Lift Assist Hooks that attach to make it a butterfly jig. Come check them out at the shop. Naples Best Custom Jigs available exclusively at: Mike’s Bait House & IPO 2052 Danford St Naples, FL 34112 mikesbaithouse@gmail.com www.mikesbaithouse.com
Mike’s Bait House has everything you need for a day on the water. 239-775-BAIT (2248)
Live and Frozen Bait – Tackle – Beverages Including Beer & Wine - Snacks
Southwest Florida Freshwater Scene
arch is here and everyone will be looking for bedding bass this month. Whether on lakes or canals the bass should be hungry for forage to sustain themselves through the spawning time on the new moon and full moon. I am a big believer in not messing with the fish on the spawning beds but if you must disturb them please, catch and release them swiftly and gentile. The pre-spawn and post-spawn fish should be very aggressive and searching out food which means top water baits should be on fire. Great month to fish no excuses! Lake Okeechobee I would expect roughly the same conditions on the lake to apply from last month. With the exception being an actual increase in the spawning fish this month. Top waters near the spawning areas where the bass are staging or coming off the beds should be excellent. I like noisy baits this time of the year like the Devils Horse. If I was a fly fisherman and I am, this would be the time of the year to try and target Lake-O. The bass will come out of the cover and look to eat after they do their spawning thing which in turn should make them accessible. Poppers and HJB’s should be in your arsenal. Trafford time is now, so put down the crappie poles and pick up your Flipping Sticks. The bass should be on fire this month. This is a good time and place to hone your skills for the tournaments. The fish should hit various types of baits and whether you want worm fishing or top waters there should be great success at finding them. I hear there is a very high number of big bass being caught there last month and this should be the case for this month. For the Everglades Canals this is the month that everything starts to come into alignment. The canals across I-75 should be excellent for both bass and cichlids. Hopefully for you bass guys there will still be cool water temperatures which will reign in the cichlid onslaught and give you a few more bass especially early in the mornings. If it is warmer, then expect to be releasing 4 to 8 cichlids to each bass you catch. This is not such a bad thing if you are into numbers and cichlids, they do pull hard. The Peacocks will still be a little shy this month they are going to need a little more warmth to the water for them to really turn on. If you want to target the bass and the larger bass try larger flies and worms. This is going to give you less strikes but it might help you put a true lunker on the line. There is no real spotlight for this month on where to fish if you do not have a boat. Over the past several months I have given you lots of great places to fish by foot and all of which should be great this month. I will leave you with this parting shot. Sometime the best fishing is in your backyard. I am still getting a large number of people who live in these great subdivisions and country clubs asking me where I can go to catch some fish. Check your back yard you might be surprised at what lurks in your pond behind the condo. Come visit Mike and me at Mike’s Bait house and Indian Pass Outfitters on Danford Street, next to Bayview Park in Naples and we can talk fishing. We carry a full line of tackle including: fly fishing needs and both saltwater and freshwater gear, food, drink, and bait. Thanks and good fishing. If you want to contact Capt. Roan z for a freshwater fishing trip or ask any fishing questions he can be contacted at the Shop 239-775-2248 or cell number 239-269-4426. Check the Web Site www.indianpassoutfitters.com and www. mikesbaithouse.com
10 NAPLES | MARCH 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CAM Naples 201703.indd 10
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PARADISE REEF The Final Legacy Reef Has A New Name:
Haunschild Reef
COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF COLLIER COUNTY RECEIVES DONATION FOR THE SIXTH AND FINAL LEGACY REEF OF THE PARADISE REEF PROJECT
R
ecent residents to Marco Island, Chris Haunschild and his wife Jennifer, read an article about the Artificial Reef Project and wanted to provide a lasting gift for the people of Marco Island and Southwest Florida. “We moved our family here for the unique beauty and traditional values,” stated Chris Haunschild, “and wanted to provide a place for marine life to flourish and a place for people to fish for generations.” There are six Legacy Reefs that make up the Paradise Reef Project. Each Legacy Reef contains between four to seven 500ton reefs; a total of thirty-six (36) 500-ton reefs. The first reef was deployed January 2015. The thirty-sixth reef was deployed October 2015. The GPS coordinates for the 36 reefs are available on the Community Foundations’ website: cfcollier.org. The reefs will now be augmented with artificial reef modules; specially designed habitats for marine life made of concrete and limestone. The modules serve as a vital component of the overall project and will be placed in proximity to the reefs. With their donation, Chris and Jennifer Haunschild have the satisfaction of knowing their family’s contribution will forever stand as a valuable legacy to our community. Haunschild Reef will be placed on nautical charts worldwide... in perpetuity. A documentary film about the project, Paradise Reef, received an Emmy Award from the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences’ Suncoast Chapter. The one-hour documentary film follows the quest to secure donations and grants, rally community support, and deploy 18,000 tons of reef material to form 36 reefs; all without the use of taxpayer funds. The documentary film may be viewed online anytime at video.wgcu. org/video/2365794811/. “I have been excited about this project from the start,” states Eileen Connolly-Keesler, CEO Community Foundation. “We are pleased to provide the financial stewardship services and be a part of a project that impacts our local environment and economy.” It was four years ago that the Economic Recovery Task Force (ERTF) Chair, Diane Flagg joined with Peter Flood, a local attorney with a big idea, developed a business plan and worked with a team of professionals and local government agencies to apply for and secure 1.3 million dollars in private BP grant funds and over $600,000. in private donations. The project is anticipated to generate an estimated $30 million dollars annually. To make a tax-deductible donation to the Artificial Reef project contact the Community Foundation of Collier County directly at 239.649.5000 or visit their website at www.cfcollier.org
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CAM Naples 201703.indd 11
| MARCH 2017 | NAPLES 11
2/13/17 9:54 PM
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12 NAPLES | MARCH 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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STANDING WATCH
A
CAPT. JIM KALVIN
topic is in the regulatory news once again that comes around every five years or so. It concerns requiring the operators of kayaks and canoes (affectionately referred to as “paddlers”) to register their vessels when using them on Florida waters. Feelings run strong on both sides of the issue, and I believe that the time has come to seriously consider such a registration. For starters, the vast majority of our resource regulatory needs are funded via user fees. On the water, this would include fishing licenses, boat trailer registration fees, and vessel registration fees – which at this point are only paid by the motor-boating public. An aside to this conversation is the marina fuel taxes that are paid for by those who use fossil fuels – over $33,000,000.00 dollars per year are collected at marine fueling facilities. These monies would go a long way to providing for our aquatic infrastructure needs if left in the marine realm. However, the DOT is the largest benefactor of this cash stream as funds are siphoned off for intrastate highway construction and maintenance. But I digress. Waterway funding needs include fish and game enforcement, first responders, pollution control, water access amenities (boat ramps, public parks, and municipal marinas), and search and rescue operations. Paddlers require all of the above, yet they pay nothing towards providing for those needs. The Board of Directors of Standing Watch is not against canoes and kayaks. Most of our membership owns one or the other. But the fact is that our regulatory maintenance needs are being over-whelmed by non-paying waterway users when you consider the influx of out of State boats each season, and the burgeoning popularity of self-propelled vessels. Simply put there is a significant percentage of waterway users that pay nothing to access our waters. And needs are great and growing. When discussing this with most paddlers, their first response is generally righteous indignation. They are appalled that such an issue could be seriously considered. Certainly, there are ways to fund waterway needs that don’t have paddlers paying a user fee – tax the boaters more! This is said repeatedly as waterways all across the State are being closed to power boaters, and actually marked as canoe and kayak trails only – and vessel registration fees are the primary source of funding for this program! Secondly, a huge percentage of the search and rescue budget is allotted to the recovery of paddlers. Human power is a great thing. However, it is no match for a strong tide, our fierce heat and humidity, or our afternoon weather surprises. Paddlers get lost, swept away, or stranded, and user-fee based first responders are deployed to find them, and bring them home safely. I am all for the peace and quiet of being out in the wilderness without the noise of an internal combustion engine. I have enjoyed it in the past, and I will enjoy same in the future. However, nothing in life is free. And as paddlers, as a group, stand on the idea that they are true environmentalists, I challenge them to put their money where their mouth is, and help fund the infrastructure needs of our aquatic resource. This challenge comes from a guy that has three boats. And though I can only use one at a time, I am required to pay for three vessel registrations. I also carry a Sportsman’s Gold personal fishing/hunting license, a Guide license, and I pay my share of the marina fuel tax. I feel it is worth it to me. Is it worth it to you?
Photo submitted by Capt. Billy Norris.
Standing Watch is Florida’s largest Boating Advocacy group, and works with local, State, and Federal agencies on matters of waterway regulations, infrastructure needs, and legislative initiatives that affect water access. Join at standingwatch.net. Or call Capt. Jim directly at 239-2809-6054
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CAM Naples 201703.indd 13
| MARCH 2017 | NAPLES 13
2/13/17 9:54 PM
20TH ANNUAL NAPLES
FREE Kids’ Fishing Clinic VISIT WWW.MIACC.ORG TO DONATE TO THIS WORTHY CAUSE!
PROUDLY PRESENTED BY
SATURDAY, MARCH 11, 2017 at the Naples Municipal City Pier Registration will begin at 9 am and close at 12 pm
This is a photo Catch-and-Release Event. Participants must be accompanied by an adult. FREE ROD & REEL FISHING COMBO to be given away to participants between the ages of 5 and 15 upon completion of the clinic, while supplies last, compliments of our sponsors.
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To SPONSOR, VOLUNTEER, or for more information, please call Tiffany Sawyer-Schank at (239) 682-0900 or email her at foundation@miacc.org CAM Naples 201703.indd 14
2/13/17 9:54 PM
HONEST SERVICE YOU CAN COUNT ON! Molly’s Marine Service, located at 895 10th Street South in beautiful downtown Naples, is your one-stop shop for all of your boating needs. Committed to your complete satisfaction, Molly’s has a full staff of marine technical experts that can provide for all of your maintenance or repair needs.
Our yard is serviced by our brand new 75 ton Marine Travel-Lift, and we can haul vessels up to 75’ in length. Molly’s is literally a block away from fine dining, hotels, and the famous 5th avenue South Entertainment district. Enjoy the heart of Naples while your vessel is in the care of Naples only full-service public marina!
From boatyard services such as bottom painting, running gear service and repair, hull waxing and restoration, mechanical service and repair, complete canvas and upholstery repair and fabrication, and service and repairs to ship-side systems and rigging.
Call Molly at 239-262-2628 to schedule a complimentary inspection or a free estimate. You can visit the marina at mollysmarineservice.com, or stop by in person. Let us partner with you in the care of your favorite investment!
BOAT SYSTEMS, RIGGING, AND SAFETY INSPECTIONS From basic boat systems to complex rigging equipment, we specialize in making sure that your vessel is safe for the water.
CUSTOM UPHOLSTERY AND CANVAS FABRICATION We will keep you and your vessel cruising in style with hundreds of different upholstery and canvas options to choose from.
FULL MECHANICAL SERVICES AND RE-POWERS We service gasoline and diesel engines, running gear, and all of the other major mechanical components of your vessel.
ALUMINUM AND STAINLESS STEEL SERVICES We offer fabrication services and repairs for aluminum boats and stainless steel components.
BOTTOM PAINTING AND FIBERGLASS REPAIR Our 70-Ton Marine Travelift and full service yard makes it easy for us to service the hull of any vessel up to 75 feet.
FULL SERVICE SHIP STORE AND PARTS DEPARTMENT Our ship store and parts department provide a convenient one-stop-shop for all of your favorite marine products.
895 10th Street South, Unit 101, Naples, FL 34102 | 239.262.2628 Hours: 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM| www.MollysMarineService.com
CAM Naples 201703.indd 15
2/13/17 9:54 PM
NAPLES ON THE FLY
Fly of the Month
Brought to you by Indian Pass Outfitters & Mike’s Bait House Fly Provided by Rz’s Leaders & Flies
The Double Bunny Fly he tried and true double bunny fly. This is a staple T for both snook and tarpon fisherman. This will catch your laid up tarpon and or your big snook coming to the inshore for spring. These colors work great or custom order a special color combo for your day on the water. See you at the shop. Fly of the Month available at: Mike’s Bait House & IPO 2052 Danford St Naples, FL 34112 mikesbaithouse@gmail.com www.mikesbaithouse.com
Mike’s Bait House has everything you need for a day on the water. 239-775-BAIT (2248)
Live and Frozen Bait – Tackle – Beverages Including Beer & Wine - Snacks
Capt. Paul Nocifora
Catch and Release Fly Fishing
USCG Licensed and Insured
239-206-0177
captpaulnocifora@gladesflyfishing.com www.gladesflyfishing.com 5 Day Trips to Dry Tortugas, Key West and Marathon
CAPT. PAUL NOCIFORA
M
arch is one of my favorite months of the year for fishing in the 10000 islands. The cold fronts become less pronounced, and this usually leads to a more consistent fishing pattern, where fish tend to be in the same places more often than not. In March, I tend to run a little more distance wise, as the fish will still move around, which is mostly dependent on water temperatures. Find clean water and a good temperature and you are in business. When the water is clean and shallow I prefer to use a light colored baitfish pattern, thrown against the roots of the mangroves. A common problem I have seen lately is the tendency of the angler to immediately make one long strip as the fly hits the water. Doing this essentially makes a good cast a bad cast with one strip. The goal is to keep that fly in the strike zone for as long as possible, especially on the higher stages of the tide. Remember, get your fly next to the roots and make the shortest strips you can - while making sure the fly is moving. Doing this will keep your fly in the area longer where the fish are more likely to be, near the mangrove roots. In March, I also like to drift drop offs and edges with a weighted fly, prospecting for trout or pompano. Let the fly sink until you are sure it’s near the bottom, then make short slow strips and you will have success. March is the kick off of tarpon season traditionally in Southwest Florida. In recent years the fishing pressure for these majestic animals has increased tremendously, which has put more stress on the fish and the people fishing for them. Remember folks, it’s fishing - it’s supposed to be fun. Do not get near other anglers who are tarpon fishing. Do not run your outboard near people tarpon fishing and finally, if someone is in “your spot” go find a different one. There is plenty of water in this area, and who knows? You may find a great spot on your own. Remember, it’s illegal to take tarpon that are longer than forty inches out of the water. Please fight these fish fast and hard, and release them gently, so they have a chance to be caught again. Capt. Paul Nocifora does catch and release fly-fishing charters, he also owns Captain Pete’s Bait & Tackle at 550 Port-O-Call Way in Naples. You can contact him at 239-206-0177 or by email at captpaulnocifora@gladesflyfishing.com or visit him at Capt. Pete’s or his website at www.gladesflyfishing.com.
Photo submitted by Capt. Nocifora.
Fish • Dive • Snorkel • Live aboard $800.00 per person with 6 guests
Lisa B
CHARTER THE
One, Two and Three day offshore local trips available Departs from the Naples City Dock
Art Nichols 239-774-2344
John Pfaff from Marco Island caught this 30lb plus African Pompano off of Marathon Key. Photo submitted by John Pfaff.
16 NAPLES | MARCH 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CAM Naples 201703.indd 16
2/13/17 9:54 PM
LOCAL
Marine Resources Factory Certified Marine Technician within a
&
BOAT REPAIR
5725 Collier Blvd Naples, FL 34114
Full Service Marine Repair Facility...
Servicing all Outboard and IO’s with services like these:
● Annual Services ● Diagnostics ● Custom Rigging ● Jack Plate Install ● Trolling Motor Installations ● Summerizing & Desummerizing ● Electronics Installations ● Repowers ● Complete Boat Systems Servicing pumps, navigations lights, etc. ● Bottom Painting ● Pressure Washing ● Trailer/Boat/PWC/RV Parking
Full Service Trailer Repair Facility
239-793-6700
5725 Collier Blvd Naples, FL 34114
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CAM Naples 201703.indd 17
| MARCH 2017 | NAPLES 17
2/13/17 9:55 PM
LOCAL
Marine Resources
Metal Works & Finishing Services: Residential | Commercial | Industrial
Mario’s Metalcraft & Powdercoating
Powdercoating • Sandblasting • Expert Color Matching • Textures • Metallics Custom Fabrication: Aluminum & Steel • Marine & Automotive • Furniture Refinishing
Where Boats Go To “Tighten-Up”
10% ANY JOB! OFF
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IF YOUR MARINE EQUIPMENT, ARCHITECTURAL METALWORK OR PATIO FURNITURE IS SCRATCHED, PITTED OR RUSTED:
www.naplesboatyard.com SERVICES OFFERED
HAULING & LOADING UP TO 60 TONS
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PROFESSIONAL DETAILING
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SANDBLASTING
WET/DRY SLIP STORAGE
MOTOR/GENERATOR & HEAVY EQUIPMENT LIFTING
WHEN YOU MENTION THIS AD. NO MINIMUM JOB COST. CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER.
DON’T TOSS IT - POWDERCOAT IT! MARIO’S METALCRAFT & POWERCOATING IS THE NAPLES AREA POWDERCOATING EXPERTS.
4227 Mercantile Avenue | Naples, FL 34104 | 239-649-0085 mariosmetalcraft@gmail.com | www.mariosmetalcraft.com
WORKING STORAGE & LONG TERM NONWORKING STORAGE PROPERLY INSURED THIRD PARTY VENDORS ARE WELCOME IN THE YARD
We Insure Boats, Yachts and Charters 239-400-2102
2375 Tamiami Trail N. Suite 208-C Naples, FL 34103 info@cipnaples.com • www.cipnaples.com
Commercial and Personal Risk Advisors
2775 Bayview Drive Naples, Florida 34112
18 NAPLES | MARCH 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CAM Naples 201703.indd 18
2/13/17 9:55 PM
Bonita’s Best Stocked Tackle Store. You Must See It To Believe It! Complete Line of Fishing Gear for LOCAL Waters Live, Frozen & Synthetic Bait for Fresh & Salt Water Fishing shrimp|squid|ballyhoo|lady fish|octopus|sardines|mullet|sand fleas
(239)775-LOWE
Boats Wanted
Located in the heart of Downtown Bonita Springs at Riverside Park, just steps from the Imperial River. Trailer accessible rear parking lot, enter from either side.
27308 Old 41 Rd. Bonita Springs, FL 34135 (239) 405-7385 • www.outtalinetackle.com
Located in Historic Downtown Bonita Springs for over 20 years
Steven Whitney
Commercial Diving Your Underwater Boat Yard
Cell: (239) 564-4975 WhitneyCommercialDiving.com Cell: (239) 601-7579 WhitneyDiver@aol.com Office/Fax: (239) 596-1536
OUTLAW CUSTOM RODS | ROD & REEL REPAIR | ARCHERY SALES & REPAIR
We carry a complete line of bicycles and accessories to enjoy the ride in comfort, our full service shop offers expert tune ups and repairs.
SURF & TURF IS NOT YOUR RUN OF THE MILL BAIT SHOP. IN FACT, WE ARE NOT A BAIT SHOP AT ALL...
464 Tamiami Trail N. | Naples, FL 34102 | (239) 417-4640 surfandturfcustom@embarqmail.com | www.surfandturfcustom.com
27310 Old 41 Rd. Bonita Springs, FL 34135 Open Tuesday - Saturday (239) 498-9913 • www.engelsbicycles.com
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CAM Naples 201703.indd 19
| MARCH 2017 | NAPLES 19
2/13/17 9:55 PM
Tip of the
ESTUARY CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION
Month
CAPT. BILLY NORRIS
T
Capt Billy Norris owns Pale Horse Fishing Charters, he can be contacted at 239-285-7710 or by email at palehorsefishingcharters@gmail.com, his website is www.palehorsefishingcharters.com.
he Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is finalizing proposed revisions to rules regulating manatee protection speed zones for Collier County. The proposed rule is expected to go before the FWC Commission for final approval at their April 2017 meeting in Tallahassee. The proposed revisions were discussed at a public meeting January, 31, 2017 and can be viewed online at: ht t p://my f wc.com/w i ld lifehabitats/ma naged /ma natee/ rulemaking/. If you want to make comments on the proposed rule email them to manateerulecomments@myfwc.com. The proposed rule is the results of a yearlong process of discussions between FWC staff, local input from the Local Rule Review Committee(LRRC), and public workshops. You can review the findings of the Collier County LRRC meetings on the web page: http:// www.colliergov.net/your-government/divisions-a-e/environmentalservices/manatee-protection/local-rule-review-manatee-protectioncommittee. The existing Collier County Manatee Protection Plan and related studies are available online at http://www.colliergov.net/ your-government/divisions-a-e/environmental-services/manateeprotection. FWC has posted their staff reports and information on the rulemaking process at http://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/managed/ manatee/rulemaking/. Incidentally, all of the counties that are in the rule development process have information on this page.
NAPLES TIDE CHART
WIGGINS PASS TIDE CHART
Wintertime Sheepshead
I
t’s that time of the year when our waters are invaded by big sheepshead. Unlike the freshwater fish with the same name from up north, our sheepshead are great fighters and delicious table fare. To catch sheepshead there are a couple different techniques. These fish hang out in both the backwaters and on our near shore reefs. As far as your rig, a basic Carolina rig is your best bet. The swivel or leader to line knot followed by about 24 to 36 inches of 20 to 30 pound test monofilament leader and a 1/0 to 2/0 circle hook is your best bet. As for bait, shrimp is always the go to with sand fleas or small crabs as additional favorites. Remember, even the big sheepshead tend to nibble so have a lot of patience. Also, as a responsible angler remember that this is the time of year that the sheepshead are here to spawn. If you catch a big one that is obviously pregnant and full of eggs, consider throwing it back to help keep our populations healthy. Fishing has been great so get out there and catch em up!
Florida, Naples
March 2017
N 26° 07.8' / W 81° 48.4' Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
1
6:50a
1:34a
6
6:46a
6:31p 5:21p
6:30a
13
7:39a
7:35p
5:17p
1:03a
26
1:01a
27 7:41p
6:06a 6:28a
6:20p 6:27p
6:41p
7:23a
28 (New)
7:28p
29 7:42p
1:17p 7:22a 7:53a
7:44p 8:31p
7:40p
7:21a
30 7:43p
8:00a 8:36a
7:20a
8:29p 9:35p
8:39a 9:22a
10:57p 5:26a
0
0
12:50a
26
2:52p
3:37a 9:17p 10:40p
9:19a
7:24a
©2017 FreeTideTables.com - For comparison only - Times are local - Tides in feet from MLLW
0
27 7:41p
7:05a
7:23a
7:19p 6:27p
28 (New)
7:43a 7:10a
1:46a 8:00p 7:28p
29 7:42p
2:01p 8:21a 7:53a
7:21a
8:31p
4:17a
30 7:43p
8:59a 8:36a
7:20a
9:35p
9:38a
5:54a
10:49a
0
25 7:40p 11:41p
12:07p
5:02a
11:02a
11:49p
7:27a
5:44a
5:57p
12:36p 6:25a
0
4:28p
31
7:43p 3:00p
9:22a
4:26p
10:55p 5:14p
3:32p
3:22a
9:28p
7:40p
11:35a 4:59a
2:29p
24
7:28a
7:37p
10:45a
11:22p
0
6:27a
18
7:34a
11:00p
12:31p
4:58p
4:53a
10:11a
9:59p
2:38p
2:31a 8:43p
7:40p
4:24p
3:30a
1:46p
23
10:56a 4:08a
3:52p 10:20a
10:30p
7:29a
7:37p
4:02a
11:40p 5:57p
5:21a
17
7:35a
10:17p
9:34a
8:50p
7:22a
7:42p 1:33p
9:50a
7:39p
3:19p
2:43a
3:21p
3:18a
22
9:53a
7:36p
11
5:45a
4:00p
4:35a
16
7:36a
9:38p
7:30a
3:09a
3:00p
9:38p
8:58a
7:25p
12:58p
1:04a
1:05p
6:28a
7:39p
11:28a
1:53a
2:51p 9:18a
21
8:27a 2:00a
12:12p
12:23a 0
6:01p
11:06a
1:03a
4:28p
2:38a
8:45p
7:31a
7:36p
4:57a
0
6:34p 12:07p
5:10p
11:13a
11:50p
6:41a
10:54p
11:44a
4:16p
3:45a
15
7:37a
9:00p
8:21a
7:38p
7:05a 5:39p
2:23p
20 (3rd)
7:32a
11:52a
7:35p
8:43a
7:51p
7:43a
19
7:38a
10:01p
6:33p
5:41a 11:29p
10:28a
10
6:42a
6:30p
10:22a
10:48p
Saturday
4
4:00p
4:21a 10:25p
9:43a
9
6:48a
6:29p
9:40a
6:33p
4:04a
2:01p
2:51a
14
2:00a 8:21p
8:07a
7:40p
4:58p
7:35p 1:56p
0
7:43p 2:16p
2:38a
25
11:23a
31
0
13
9:45p
Friday
3
3:20p
3:14a 9:31p
11:17a
3:13p
3:04a
1:03p
1:53a
8:55p
10:36a
6:49a
6:29p
6:43a
6:32p
Thursday
2
2:46p 9:02a
8
6:44a
7:34p 1:58p
1:57a
7:39a
12:21a
4:22p
10:03a
6:32p
9:06a
12:08p
12:52a
10:50p
7:27a
4:45a
12:42a
7
6:45a
6:05p
12:30p
12 (Full)
5:10a
10:49a
5:02a
3:32p
0
7:37p 3:42p
10:11p 4:15p
4:00a
1:45p
7:40p
10:51a
4:17a
2:38p
24
0
18
9:46a
6:31p
7:14a 5:41p
5:28a
6
6:46a
11:47a
4:58p
4:09a
11:22p
7:28a
10:56p 4:58p
7:34a
10:01p
10:11a
9:15p
3:25p
1:47a
9:21a
23
10:12a 3:09a
3:08p
6:50a
8:59a
6:34p
5:21a
7:37p
3:18a
10:30p
7:29a
3:30a
1:46p
7:22a
1:02a 7:01p
7:10a
2:20p
7:35a
9:18p
9:34a
8:06p
9:09a
7:42p
6:44a
7:39p
2:43a
12:49p
8:51a
22
7:30a
2:37p
2:34a
9:38p
8:58a
7:36p
Wednesday
1
0
5 (1st)
11
4:46a
17
Tuesday
2:18a
11:50p
11:23a
4:00p
4:35a
Monday
0
10:14a
10:30p
6:41a
10:10p
4:11p
3:58a
16
7:36a
8:39p
2:10a
12:58p
12:20a
12:21p
7:39p
10:29a
1:53a
12:12p 7:24a
21
7:43a
10:07a
2:07p 8:19a
8:45p
7:31a
7:38p
6:21a
8:01p
8:21a
7:36p
6:33p
11:00a
3:00p
3:45a
15
7:37a
9:17p
3:17p
3:05a
6:42a
Sunday
4:08p
4:57a
10:28a
10
March 2017
N 26° 17.4' / W 81° 49.1'
6:30p
9:23a
10:48p
Florida, Naples, Wiggins Pass, Cocohatchee River
Saturday
4
3:16p
3:37a 9:26p
9:43a
9
6:33p
10:33a
2:01p
1:54a
20 (3rd)
7:32a
0
1:39p 7:44a
7:51p
7:43a
19
7:35p
6:43a
8:11p
2:14p
2:51a
14
1:16a 7:22p
7:08a
9:52a 2:05a
1:03p 7:38a
6:32p
9:45p
6:48a
6:29p
8:41a
8:32p
Friday
3
2:36p
2:30a
8:03a
8
6:44a
6:50p
12:59p
1:53a
1:12p 0
6:32p
12:58a
12:08p
12:52a
12 (Full)
6:45a
8:22a
11:31a
0
7
6:49a
6:29p
8:59a
5 (1st)
Thursday
2
2:02p
0
0
MAC HATCHER
3:36p
4:21a 10:16p
10:18a
0
10:40p
©2017 FreeTideTables.com - For comparison only - Times are local - Tides in feet from MLLW
20 NAPLES | MARCH 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CAM Naples 201703.indd 20
2/13/17 9:55 PM
LOCAL BUSINESSES AT YOUR SERVICE AFFORDABLE TRAILERS & MARINE SERVICES
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6245 JANES LANE #A, NAPLES, FL 34109-6268
239-290-0532
NaplesRodAndReelRepair.com
CAPT. JOHN E. CRIMMEL, JR.
cpwrllc@outlook.com collierpressurewasherrepair.com
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| MARCH 2017 | NAPLES 21
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FISHING FORECAST
KAYAK FISHING GEAR REVIEW
CAPT. BRIAN HAYHURST
Naples to Marco Island
W
ith the winter coming to an end and warmer water temperatures among us the fishing is really going to become stellar from now to about September. The redfish are biting on shrimp on the bottom with a 1/0 circle hook in the mangroves and shorelines where you find troughs and deep holes. With spring upon us the pilchards should start to make a come back and you can use those with a 2/0 circle hook free lined as well. The offshore fishing is starting to intensify with the permit, king fish, and cobia lurking closer inshore. We have all the crabs and pinfish you need at the store to conquer these fun fish to catch. The speckled trout are starting to show up in numbers over oyster beds and grass flats with a little warmer water temperatures and generally will feed on pinfish, menhaden, and live shrimp. These beauties will also hit on spoons or artificial vudu or savage gear shrimp. Snook season is here and the bite is on! Along the shoreline in the troughs you will find these spectacular fish popping off pilchards, pinfish and menhaden. Live shrimp also work as well as an array as soft plastic baits. Season is here and there are lot of boats on the water. Please be courteous to everyone out there. If you see someone fishing the rocks coming out of the pass please slow down and not wake them. If we all show our fellow fisherman a little respect it will make everyone’s fishing experience enjoyable. Come out to the pier on Saturday March 11th if you have little future Anglers, we will be sponsoring the kids free fishing clinic by providing 4000 shrimp for the little ones. Bring the kiddos out for a fun filled day. Tight Lines. Capt. Brian Hayhurst is the owner of Serenity Bait Services located at 2365 Davis Blvd. in Naples. If you would like to talk to Brian he can be contacted at 239-2734421 or by email at serenitybaitcompany@gmail.com.
Fish finder on your kayak?
JOHN PAENO
Y
es many of today’s fishing kayaks come with special indentations and fittings for GPS and fish finders. Some companies are putting out equipment just for kayaks. Of course we all have our own built in fish finders like, sight, smell, and sound. But this is for the kayak angler that wants all the technological advantage they can get. It is kind of ironic that today we employ top technology on an age old paddling craft like the kayak. Anyway. I was recently asked to install a fish finder on a kayak. It was a Lowrance Hook 4 and came with a thru hull transducer. This is not the first fish finder I have installed but usually they go through the scupper hole. This was nice; just epoxy the transponder facing the bow to the lowest, level part of the hull. You can see how to install it on You Tube. This kayak had a center hatch and the owner wanted everything either on the inside or outside of the hatch. Hobie has a nice little fish finder install kit that has just about everything you need. It is made for Hobie kayaks but it works on other kayaks also. In this case I installed the battery in a carrier on the underside of the cover making it easy to lift the cover and just drop the battery out to change or store it. I put the Lowrance on the top of the cover and drilled a hole for wire access to the battery and transducer. There is a fuse and easy connectors to disconnect the unit and bring it in the house for storage. Personally I don’t fish deep enough water to use a fish finder (only the fish finders our maker gave me) but I do use the GPS. It’s nice to be able to get back to that sweet spot. In last month’s article I said that Hobie pedal craft did not back up. I stand corrected. The new 2017 MD 180 Mirage drive does back up. Thanks for the update Capt. Dan Hubbard. Keep on reading. John Paeno is an owner of CGT Kayaks in Bonita Springs, you can reach John by email at calusaghosttours@gmail.com, or by phone at 239-221-8218. Visit the CGT website at www.cgtkayaks.com.
Scott Rosenblum, Michael Jonas and Brian Psota caught and released this sailfish about 25 miles off Gordon’s Pass. Photo submitted by Scott Rosenblum. Tom Hoeffel with a nice catch made on a recent Pure Florida KUDU charter. CAM photo. 22 NAPLES | MARCH 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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NAPLES SPEARFISHING LEAGUE BILL D’ANTUONO e are on the final stretch of winter as spring is rapidly approaching. Winter 2017 was generous enough to allow us calm days with the exception of a couple ‘big blows’ stirring up the visibility for a few weeks. March can prove to be some of the worst conditions as the seasons’ turbidity shakes things up a bit. Visibility can and does clear up. Once that wind starts blowing lightly from the east the water will clean up in short time. As always with changing conditions means the fish are moving around. Mangrove snapper have been showing up in droves and cobia love that cold water. Recently on a trip with the local paper, we set out to do a story at the ‘R’ Tower. My expectations were not high as this heavily fished haven is usually a sightseeing dive. I was very surprised to see many mangrove and yellowtail snapper up and down the columns. I ended the dive with four 18” mangrove snapper and a 24” red grouper. Also spotted were some hefty amberjacks along with solid gag grouper that are out of season. We currently have a petition to ‘save the towers’ on my non-profit organizations’ website, www. colliercountywaterkeeper.org, make sure to sign it if you haven’t already! The Gulf can be intimidating with its vast and shallow sea-floor. There are a ton of spots offshore all holding fish and you never know which one your next trophy fish will be hiding on. Simply getting offshore can be the hardest part of spearfishing in Naples and Marco Island. Finding a friend with an offshore boat or owning one can be a challenging task. We offer spearfishing charters frequently and we will make sure you go home with some fresh fish. Stay tuned, next issue I will be announcing tournaments for 2017.
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2017
Bill is a dive master at SCUBAdventures in Naples, in 2013 his efforts helped to lift a 50 year ban on spearfishing in Collier County waters, he is the founder of the Naples Spearfishing League and is available as a local spearfishing guide. You can contact Bill at naplesspearfishingleague@gmail.com - www. spearfishingnaplesFL.com or visit him at SCUBAdventures.
Photo submitted by Bill D’Antuono.
Showing off a nice catch on a Pure Florida charter. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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In the Wake by Capt. Jim Kalvin
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love this time of year! The end of the winter season is reason enough to celebrate. But the onset of March means something even better. And that is the onset of spring – which leads to the onset of summer! For the next five months, the waters will be getting warmer, big fish will be migrating through our new reef system, and it’s time to get the SCUBA gear checked out and serviced at SCUBAdventures. Anyone who says that Florida doesn’t have seasons is obviously not a fisherman or a SCUBA diver! Spring also reminds me of a tale that I share from time to time that took place back in….oh….about 1994ish. I think. I was the Owner / Operator of All-Star Marina (now Naples Boat Yard), and I got the notion to have a cook out for our clients, employees, and trades friends. It all started when a neighbor of mine cut down a big oak tree around the corner. “BARBEQUE!” was what came to my mind instantly. I chatted it up with the fellers back at the marina, and we all agreed - we decided that we’d have a pig roast down on the south side of Keewaydin Island to celebrate the passing season, and usher in the coming summer. A weekend was targeted, and plans began to unfold. A couple of days before the event, I enlisted the help of Capt. Phil Haley to tow my old aluminum boat full of cinder blocks down to the site. Without going into details about how the boat started to sink under the load in Gordon’s Pass – necessitating me jumping overboard to pull the plug, and hanging on to the transom while Phil “trolled” me around to the beach – we eventually made it to our spot with the load intact. We off-loaded the blocks, and towed the boat back to the marina. I came out the following day with the kids and a couple of the hardcore campers, guitars, a whole pig, a boatload of firewood, and we began to relax as we built the pit, and a bed of coals was set into motion. It was a beautiful night – sky as clear as gin, Publix boxed chicken (with King’s Hawaiian rolls!), and the stars were alive and positively gorgeous! We told lies, sang songs, counted satellites, solved the riddles of current events, watched the kids fish, and stoked the fire in the pit. At about midnight, we had a wonderful even bed of glowing coals. We ceremoniously placed the giant grate over the pit, and let it burn itself clean. Even more ceremoniously - half an hour later - we placed the marinated pig on the grate, and covered it with a piece of plywood. We started a side fire so that we could feed clean coals into the pit Renovation Repair Re-Decking Pile Repair & Encasements Boatlift Service & Repair Maintenance Dredging U/W Surveys Consulation A Jim Kalvin Company - Serving Collier County’s Waterfront Since 1982
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throughout the night, and rested best we could. It was going to be a big day! Wee hours faded into dawn, and the Gulf was like a sheet of polished glass. The only break in the serenity was the occasional baitfish running from something below. The beach had a haze from our pit that was actually beginning to smell pretty damn good! Winds were non-existent, and our first party guest showed up at sun-up. It was Buddha (aka Rick Melvin), from Turner Marine with a boatload of early risers. He had an awesome stereo, and we watched the sun peek through the Australian Pines to the thumping sounds of Bob Marley. We cooked eggs and bacon on the side fire, rotated the pig, and stoked the fire. What a morning! To move the story along, boats began showing up shortly after Buddha got there, and there was a steady stream of bow-riders, center consoles, cruisers, sailboats, and jet skis that began to coagulate just off the beach until we had over 60 vessels. We had about 150 people to feed! The smell of the pig was wafting over to the intracoastal side of the island, and folks started moving their “camps” over to our side to join the party. We had kids, dogs, radio controlled cars and boats, a guitar circle, a volley ball net (never did find out who brought that), and tables began popping up out of nowhere with side dishes. A keg of beer found its way into an ice-filled hole in the sand, and then…….the airshow began. A biplane came down the beach flying low and slow just off the sandbar. We recognized Dave Starr, Jason Rector, and Julie (can’t remember her last name) standing on the lower wing clinging to the side of the fuselage. They identified our position, and the plane began to spiral upward. At the appropriate height, they jumped off the plane, and parachuted into the scene! Anyone from the other side of the island who wasn’t on our side already then came scrambling over to see what was going on. Then……. the cops showed up. Can’t remember if it was Officer Johnson, or Officer McCallister – but in the middle of several hundred revelers, a voice cut through the crowd and asked me, “who’s in charge here?” All I could do was shrug, and say, “we wuz just having a barbeque, Officer……and…” I spread my arms out as if to say, “then this all happened”. He grinned and shook his head, made some remark into his uniform-mounted microphone, and said to me, “well – everyone looks pretty well-behaved. Just try to keep it under control – K?” “Sure thing Officer!” I said as I handed him a “test piece” of pork off of the grill. He took it, waved, and off he went. As you can imagine, the rest was – literally – “history”. I believe that we invented the “flash mob” that day, though it wouldn’t come into vogue for 20 years or so. It was a once-in-a-lifetime event, and any attendees that are still around are very likely sporting lots of gray hair and reading glasses at this point. But a big thanks to all of you for one of my favorite memories! Captain Jim Kalvin is a Florida Native, a USCG Licensed 100 Ton Master, a local Marine Contractor, and is President and Founder of Standing Watch, Inc. - a Statewide coalition of Boating Advocates. Jim is available to speak to your group on a variety of boating or legislative topics. James.kalvin61@gmail.com
24 NAPLES | MARCH 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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Rod Actions for
Coastal Fishing By CAM Staff • Photo Courtesy of Matt Holder
B
roomstick. That’s what I started out coastal fishing with nearly 20 years ago. I had done quite well bass fishing with heavy-action rods growing up fishing freshwater lakes and ponds. When I began fishing saltwater bays, I was quite fond of my medium-heavy and heavy action broomsticks. Of course I was using them to ‘horse’ 8to 11-pound bass out of heavy cover and matted vegetation. Those actions are fine to start with in saltwater bays, but fishing for speckled trout and redfish in most bays doesn’t require bringing out the heavy artillery. In fact, going lighter and allowing today’s more precisely built fishing tools to do their job at the upper end of their limits is much more effective in catching more and bigger speckled trout, and they do fine on most slot and oversized reds up to almost 42 inches. Lately I have seen quite a few inquiries on the saltwater inshore boards asking “is this rod ok, or can I use that rod action for trout?” I thought I’d cover some rod actions that handle the bays, flats and marshes a little more like Craig Biggio handled a baseball bat. That guy was awesome in the field, didn’t swing a big bat but produced big results with consistency. That is what we are after. For saltwater inshore fishing with a casting rod and reel for speckled trout and redfish, the most used rod and action would be something in the realm of a 6’6” medium-power rod with a fast tip. It should be rated to throw lures weighing from 1/8 to 5/8-ounce. I regularly throw lures up to ¾-ounce, such as Super Spooks or other
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large topwater plugs, on this specific rod rating. Line ratings will fall generally between 8- to 15-pound test. Each rod maker will have a little different variation on this, but they’ll be close to this range. This rod will cast a large variety of saltwater inshore lures ranging from soft plastics on 1/16-ounce lead or bismuth jig heads all the way to 3/4 or 1-ounce topwaters. Overall, it will function best and cast the longest with lure weights that fall within its rated specification. For example, one can certainly cast a ¾-ounce MirrOlure Paul Brown slow sinking FatBoy or Mirrodine XL on a rod that’s rated for 1/8 to 5/8-ounce, but I find that it may not cast as far since it’s slightly over-loading the blank. A fast-action tip will help mitigate some of the distance loss (and we’re just splitting hairs here) but it’s going to get the job done and allow you to fish with that one rod all day with just about any lure in the box. I recently switched over to Lew’s Inshore rod series with blanks that are specifically made for saltwater inshore anglers. I’m really liking them.
2/14/17 5:02 PM
B.A.S.S. Calls Anti-Lead Edict Anti-Fishing
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n the day before President Barack Obama left office, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) issued an edict to ban lead fishing tackle and ammunition from hundreds of thousands of acres of land and water managed by that agency. Executed without stakeholder input, the controversial action has sparked outrage from fishing and hunting communities. B.A.S.S. joined with state fisheries management agencies and the American Sportfishing Association (ASA) in calling on the new administration and FWS to put a hold on the order. “This 11th hour order, just hours before the new administration was to take office, was an obvious attempt to push through an order that is part of the previous administration’s environmental agenda without full consultation among all the stakeholders,” said B.A.S.S. Conservation Director Gene Gilliland. Scott Gudes, ASA’s vice president of government affairs, added, “The sportfishing industry views this unilateral policy to ban lead fishing tackle, which was developed without any input from the industry, other angling organizations and state fish and wildlife agencies, as a complete disregard for the economic and social impact it will have on anglers and the recreational fishing industry.” Signed by FWS Director Dan Ash, Order No. 219 requires “the use of nontoxic ammunition and fishing tackle to the fullest extent practicable for all activities on service lands, waters and facilities.” Fortunately, action was taken by the new Trump administration that could hinder its effectiveness. A memorandum issued from the White House to departments and agencies announced a freeze on implementing new regulations, pending review. Still, individual jurisdictions within FWS might choose to enforce the rule. For years, environmentalists have attempted to gain a complete ban on lead ammunition and fishing tackle by filing lawsuits. They’ve done so, Gilliland said, “despite the lack of a clear connection in many cases of negative population-level impacts on fish and wildlife.” Their arguments have been rejected by the courts. At the same time, selective bans have been
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implemented where research suggests a need for them, such as in some northern waters, where loons ingest lead shot. “In the limited instances where lead fishing tackle is demonstrated to harm local wildlife populations, the sportfishing industry supports actions to minimize or eliminate these impacts,” Gudes said. “However, unnecessary and sweeping bans such as this director’s order will do nothing to benefit wildlife populations and instead will penalize the nation’s 46 million anglers and hurt recreational fishing-dependent jobs.” If not rescinded, it also will damage the partnership between the federal agency and the states, according to Nick Wiley, president of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. “This action flies squarely in the face of a long and constructive tradition of states working in partnership with the service to effectively manage fish and wildlife resources,” he said. “The Association views this order as a breach of trust and deeply disappointing given that it was a complete surprise and there was no current dialogue or input from state fish and wildlife agencies prior to issuance. It does a disservice to hunters and anglers, the firearms and angling industries, and the many professionals on staff with the USFWS who desire a trusting and transparent relationship with their state partners.”
2/14/17 5:03 PM
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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Gaining Confidence In A New Lure Is Key
By Michael Okruhlik • Photo Courtesy of My Coast Outdoors
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aining confidence in a new lure is key to having success fishing with it. Whether it is new to the market or just new to you, without confidence you might not tie it on or keep it on for long. Many times anglers tie on a new lure prior to the trip anticipating instant success only to be heartbroken when the fish didn’t show the same enthusiasm. Other times, we tie on the new lure when nothing else is working expecting a miracle. In reality, fish might not have been caught during these two scenarios simply because they were not there or they were not feeding. This could leave us with a bad impression of the product and cause us to toss it in the bottom of the tackle bag, where it will lie in darkness. Many years ago I bought a very popular slow-sinking lure that
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everyone raved about. I could not catch a fish on it if my life depended on it. Looking back, I fell into the two scenarios above and never gave it a fair shake, but that’s a story for another article. The same was true for topwaters in salt water. I had caught many bass on them, but I would only tie one on when I wasn’t catching anything in the salt. Then I decided that I was going to catch a speckled trout on a topwater plug or I was not going to catch one at all. To build my confidence and perfect my technique, I decided to only carry topwaters on my trips. I remember the day I gained that confidence. On a trip to Lake Calcasieu, La. with three friends, my persistence paid off. It was not a productive day overall, but it was a great day for me. I caught 3 ½-, 5-, and 6-pound trout plus a keeper redfish. Every time I would hook a fish, a few of my buddies would tie on a topwater, fish it for a while, and then switch back to a soft plastic. Between the three of them, they landed one red. Had I not kept the topwater on all day, I think it is safe to say I would not have had a productive day, but most of all, I still would not have gained confidence in the lure. I have found that when I decide to try a new lure, I make sure to give it a full and fair trial. I like to fish it through different scenarios and conditions to see where it might stand out from the rest of my tackle. While doing this, I like to fish with others and measure my production against theirs. I am not one to switch as soon as my buddy catches a fish, or three. I prefer to keep plugging away, trying to make them eat what I am offering. That is how I break in a new lure. Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Controlled Descent Lures and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com. For more about the lure that Okruhlik gained confidence with, go to
CAMOFFSHORE.CO
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2/14/17 1:05 PM
Florida Trash Tour Begins March 25 at Cedar Key
T
Photo by Michael Pereckas
he Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) and Swamp Head Brewery are teaming up for the 2017 Florida Trash Tour, a series of tournament-style trash round ups that will award prizes in a number of different categories. Swamp Head will bring free beer! Throughout 2017, the tour will have several events all over the state to clean up Florida waters. The first stop is at Cedar Key on Saturday, March 25 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Registration is free, and so is food and beer at the after party. This is, however, a family friendly event, so sodas and water will be available for anyone under the age of 21. Those who need a place to stay should contact Cedar Key Cove Marina for discounts and availability at 352-543-6148. In each event, there will be divisions for boaters and walkers, so a boat is not necessary. Prizes will be awarded for the most trash collected. Other Tour Stop Dates: Titusville - April 22 Jacksonville - June 10 Steinhatchee - August 26 St. Augustine - November 4
For information, contact Caitlin Mitchell with CCA at cmitchell@ ccaflorida.org or 407-401-7677. To register online, go to the CCA Florida website at www.ccaflorida.org and find the event on the Airline_Ad_CoastalAngler_8-1-14_Layout 1 8/1/14 1:14 PM Page 1 “Calendar of Events” page.
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2/14/17 11:48 AM
Will Florida Allow Goliath Grouper Harvest? FWC Photo
F
lorida Today is reporting that the mighty goliath grouper might soon be fair game for anglers in Florida. The topic spurred some heated discussion at the February Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) meeting in Crystal River. FWC staff members have begun the outreach for input that will help determine the future of management for the high-profile species and how a limited harvest might work. This data will be considered at the FWC meetings next fall or winter. Once known as jewfish, harvest of goliath grouper has been off limits for 27 years. Since catch data is important to research and population estimates, researchers have little data from which to assess populations. A strictly controlled and limited harvest of these huge grouper would help the FWC more accurately determine how many of them are actually out there. According to FLKeysNews.com, public input at the Crystal River meeting was varied. Diving interests spoke in opposition to harvest because of the huge fish’s attraction for divers. Recreational anglers spoke in favor of a limited harvest, saying the species is overpopulated in some areas and threatening stocks of other species.
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2/14/17 11:48 AM
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FLORIDA
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2/14/17 11:48 AM
The Changing Face of the Indian River Lagoon Estuary By Zack Jud, Ph.D.
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lear water! As I poled a Fort Pierce shoreline, I was thrilled to see last year’s environmental disaster had finally relaxed its grip. I had all but forgotten how exceptional the sight fishing can be without the ubiquitous green and brown water we’ve all slowly accepted as the new normal. I could see bottom for the first time in more than a year. Even better, I was seeing gamefish—a mix of snook, reds and trout that provided ample opportunity for a carefully placed cast. More important than what I saw was what I didn’t see. Seagrass was conspicuously absent from an area that was blanketed in green just a few years ago. With clear water comes the frightening realization that most of the Indian River Lagoon system is devoid of seagrass. Aside from a few ever-shrinking patches that I fished over in the Mosquito Lagoon this winter, I’ve been seeing nothing but bare bottom. Similar reports are rolling in from anglers throughout the system. An excited phone call about seagrass recovery from a friend who makes his living guiding on the Banana River turned out to be yet another letdown. From the bow of his skiff a few days later, it became apparent that the green carpet of “seagrass” was actually an aggressive species of bottom-dwelling Caulerpa algae—a seagrass lookalike that provides few benefits to our ecosystems. This shift from seagrass to macroalgae is occurring throughout the Indian River Lagoon system. It might have cascading consequences that go far beyond the gamefish we so deeply value. To make matters worse, the clear water we’re enjoying this winter has nothing to do with improved management practices. It has nothing to do with the dedicated efforts of concerned anglers and citizens. There were no hard-earned environmental victories for conservation groups, no
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game-changing environmental legislation. To the contrary, last year’s environmental catastrophe has resulted in little change to Florida’s troubled water infrastructure. Improving conditions in our estuaries are nothing more than Mother Nature giving us a few minutes to catch our breath in the corner before the inevitable round ahead. Unless substantial changes occur, Lake Okeechobee discharges and agricultural runoff in the southern Indian River Lagoon, along with septic tanks, sewage treatment plants and residential fertilizer use in the central and northern lagoon, will continue pushing the Indian River Lagoon–and its valuable sport fishery–to the brink of ecological collapse. Thankfully, there is some positive news to report. It seems our voices are finally being heard by a handful of legislators, and lawmakers are getting involved in meaningful discussions that might result in improved water quality for our estuaries and the Everglades. Most important to anglers is Florida Senate Bill 10, a law that if passed would facilitate water storage and filtration in the Everglades Agricultural Area south of Lake Okeechobee. By storing and cleaning Okeechobee’s polluted water using enormous filtration marshes, we can reduce harmful freshwater discharges to coastal areas, while simultaneously providing the Everglades with the water it desperately needs. No other single component of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP) has this much potential to improve the health of Florida’s waters. Clear water? Don’t count on it lasting. The bottom of our estuary, now devoid of seagrasses and their stabilizing root systems, is easily stirred up by wind and waves. Human factors that led to last year’s algae blooms, fish kills and massive freshwater discharges are still in place. While our inshore waters may be clear right now, the next disaster is looming. Sure, there are still gamefish to be found, but not in the numbers we remember from even a few years ago. More concerning is the lack of bottom-dwelling prey species—the base of the estuarine food web. While midwater forage fish like mullet, anchovies and pilchards will probably remain abundant for a while, crabs, shrimp and pinfish—species that depend on healthy seagrass—are becoming as scarce as rocking horse manure. Without clean water, without sea grass, without forage species, without nursery habitats, the fishery we cherish may be taking its last gasps. Dr. Zack Jud is the director of education at Florida Oceanographic Society, a coastal ecologist, and a fly casting instructor. Contact him at zjud@ floridaocean.org. Check out the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center’s cool kids’ fishing programs at www.floridaocean.org.
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2/14/17 11:48 AM
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Fishing Line And Tackle Disposal
F
ishing is a key component of the Florida lifestyle as well as the state’s economy. But fishing line and other fishing tackle frequently enter Florida’s aquatic systems creating potential traps for unsuspecting wildlife. Monofilament is the most common type of fishing line, however, modern advances have produced several other varieties with higher tensile strength, reduced visibility and greater abrasion resistance. While fluorocarbon can be recycled in the same manner as mono, braided line and wire leaders must be disposed of differently. Anglers can purchase or make their own fishing line storage bins to keep with them so that line can be stored securely and out of the way. Products such as the Monomaster and Line Snatcher help anglers store unwanted fishing line; however, homemade versions can be made by cutting an “X” in the lid of something as simple as a coffee can. Once on shore, mono and fluorocarbon line can be recycled in designated bins found at boat ramps, piers and tackle shops. Anglers should not use these bins to discard any other type of fishing line or leader material such as braid or wire. Also, the bins should not be used to discard tackle, such as hooks, lures or soft plastics. To discard non-monofilament line, such as braid or wire, cut the line into 12inch or smaller pieces and place into a covered trash receptacle. You can learn how to make your own monofilament recycling bin by visiting our FWC Saltwater Fishing YouTube channel. For more information on the statewide Monofilament Recovery & Recycling Program, visit MRRP.MyFWC.com. As part of the “Pitch It” campaign, soft plastic baits with the hook or jig head removed can be discarded in special program containers that are separate from monofilament recycling bins. Learn more about soft bait disposal and the “Pitch It” campaign by visiting Pledgetopitchit.org. For more on how to make a monofilament recycling bin, go to
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Not Just
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The perfect fishing knot is not a knot, but a weld!
By Brandon Tourigny
L
et’s face it… the majority of us who hear the title “safety class” usually aren’t thrilled at the prospect of sitting through hours of cliché safety lectures. Boater safety classes are something a lot of us put up with to move forward with getting a boating license or captain’s license. We read about all the horror stories of boating Brandon Tourigny with a nice accidents but Crystal River trout. never think it could happen to us. For me, things like life jackets, up-to-date fire extinguishers, or proper flares were just things that seemed more like hassles to keep on-hand because I didn’t want to receive a ticket from the game warden. However, when the unexpected does happen, when the worst possible scenario unfolds before your eyes, there is no telling how much time you will have to react. How you react in these situations could very well be the difference of life and death. This past month a friend and I were given a rude awakening on the importance of emergency preparedness during a fishing trip into the heart of the Crystal River. After a long day of fishing through the backcountry, we experienced engine failure on our way back to the boat ramp at about 7:30 p.m. With wet clothes, dropping temperatures, howling winds, and only one working phone with 30 percent battery life, it would be an understatement to say that nothing was going our way. Thankfully this story has a happy ending since an unsung hero, who will remain nameless, went the extra mile to see us to safety. Had we been forced to stay the night on the boat, one thing could have become a serious risk for us, hypothermia. With the temperature supposed to drop into the 40s, we had no dry clothes, and hypothermia was a real threat. Emergency situations are actually very preventable if you take the effort to prepare for the worst. Situations such as being stranded due to engine failure, being stuck due to low tide, or a sinking vessel are why having a strong working knowledge of maritime law, safety and emergency preparedness are not something to be taken lightly. Also, the simple step of having an emergency bag containing fire starting materials, nonperishable foods, blankets or towels, some dry clothes and rain ponchos can very well mean the difference between a miserable or life threatening experience or just an inconvenient yet nonthreatening wait for help. When getting ready to go out on the boat to fish or just to enjoy the water, safety should never be taken lightly, because emergency situations can happen to anyone at any time. As a friend of mine’s father once told me, the smartest people don’t learn from experience but from the experiences of others. These are the people who go out more prepared the next time.
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ishermen have been on an eternal quest for the perfect knot. This effort is futile because the line must bend to tie any knot, which always weakens the line, in many cases, substantially! Tauten has replaced the knot with a polymer line weld which results in virtually no loss in system strength. Instead of the line breaking at the weld, the line itself will fail first. Works on braid, mono or fluorocarbon Simply run line through lure/hook and back over device, push button and line is welded to itself in seconds Takes easily replaced and inexpensive polymer cartridges (up to 12 welds per) Device derived from one used by surgeons to tie surgical knots and is extremely durable, lightweight and it floats! Allows you to use smaller diameter line or increases the breaking strength of existing line No more failed knots!
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UNDER THE SEA
ear!
SPEARFISHING APPAREL
by blending into the reef, and some just want SHERI DAYE to look cool. Ladies, if you’re looking for he popularity of spearfishing in the “skins” for the summer U.S. has grown significantly, and it in attractive patterns, has spawned product innovation and improvements—not only with spearguns, check out Slipins. You might not blend into but with associated dive apparel. Believe it the reef, but you will look amazing! 2) Gloves: There are more sizes, or not, how you dress can play an important thicknesses and features now. I’ve been part of the hunt. Here are some examples: 1) Wetsuits: It’s important for a hunter to diving in water so cold that I lost feeling be comfortable in the water. If you are cold in my hands and couldn’t feel the trigger. and shivering, if your suit is rubbing the I should have sprung for a thicker pair of back of your legs, if it feels too tight in the gloves when I traveled to California. With the popularity of polespearing, chest—you will not perform as effectively. In this regard, new wetsuits with open-cell there’s a need for gloves that make it easy to technology and newer materials have been hold a loaded polespear, so the grip is made a godsend. They are softer, stretchier and of nitrile or latex while the rest of the gloves thinner, yet they keep you warmer than the (back of hand and wrists) are a dynema/ old materials. A good wetsuit should feel Kevlar composition. The all-Kevlar gloves like a second skin and should not let water are useful for handling fish or lobsters. It’s in anywhere. The following brands are not uncommon to get cut by gill rakers when available at your local dive shop: Yazbeck, dispatching bigger fish. Wearing solid gloves will give you confidence when handling fish. Mares, Riffe, Omer, Cressi and more. Most spearfishing wetsuit brands now Check out Neritic and Akona, among others. 3) Booties: With the advent of long fins have both a men’s and women’s cut, resulting in a better fit. The new stretchy materials for spearfishing, it’s become more important are forgiving enough to fit most bodies. for the fin-pocket/bootie combination to Still not happy with the fit? No worries; form a good fit. An ill-fitting fin will greatly there are several affordable custom wetsuit reduce efficiency in the water. As with gloves, manufacturers who will tailor one to your there’s a greater variety of choices, and it’s important to try them on with the foot measurements. Try Oceanos or Elios. Another recent development is the pocket you plan to wear. Next time you go spearfishing, make wide variety of camouflage patterns. Some hunters believe it allows them to be stealthier sure you are dressed for success!
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TIPS FROM A PRO
FRESHWATER THE THINGS WE WEAR
O
BRANDON LESTER
utdoor apparel isn’t as much fun to talk about as how to catch big bass, but it’s important for those of us who spend a lot of time on a boat. I’m not sponsored by any clothing companies or anything like that, but I do know what I like. Let’s start with hoodies. You just can’t beat a quality hoodie for chilly mornings and running down the lake. Most of my sponsors have sent me a hoodie or two, but I have to say my all-time favorite one is from Raymarine. There’s something about the texture of the hoodie. It’s manufactured by
cover up from the sun as well. They keep me cool and really make a difference in how much energy I have after a long day on the water. I also like MHX’s lightweight hat as well as a trucker hat I have from Phoenix Boats. A rain suit is key for me too. Mud Hole was nice enough to send me one from Gill that really works well. They make good stuff. Raymarine sent one made by Stormr, and it is my favorite for cold weather. Mercury provided me one from Simms that is really nice, and it has held
Sport-Tek and is just extremely comfortable. It looks good too. For those cold mornings, I really like to have on a beanie, too. I have accumulated several from Mercury, and I really like theirs. Mercury’s are good quality and don’t shrink. I’ve had others that got loose and feel like they were going to fly off. Everything has to be tight when running at 70-plus mph. Buff USA makes good beanies, as well, and several other cold weather products I like. Most of us think of Buff for sun protection, but they perform in the cold too. Speaking of sun protection, I will indeed have a UV Buff around my neck 95 percent of the time. I also wear their gloves, and honestly it feels a little strange to not fish with gloves on anymore. As younger anglers, we’ve heard stories and seen pictures of sun-damaged skin. Most of us heed the warnings. I wear MHX sun shirts to
up very well. You can never have too many rain suits. You never know when you’ll need a backup for either yourself or someone fishing with you. To complete the look and feel, I like to wear lightweight, comfortable fishing shorts from Mercury. You see a ton of anglers wearing the Mercury shorts, so it was obviously a brilliant marketing move for them to send them to us. It just feels like “game day” when I have them on. Did I mention all this stuff is wrinkle free. Even our jerseys are wrinkle-free. I usually stay in hotels, and I’m thankful to be able to pull my gear out of the suitcase or out of a boat compartment and have it look good. Valley Fashions does a good job with our jerseys. That’s enough about clothing. Next month we will get back to fishing. If you ever have any topics you would like me to cover, hit me up on Facebook or Instagram.
Get more tips from Lester at
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2/14/17 1:46 PM
FISH & FISHING
PRIORITIES
A
MARK SOSIN
nglers tend to reverse priorities. Instead of focusing on fishing an artificial effectively, they worry more about choosing some magical fly or lure guaranteed to produce a spectacular catch simply by being in the water. Success seldom happens that way. If you have confidence in your choice and believe it will work, it probably will, provided your presentation and retrieve are effective. The best bait in the box will bomb unless it looks realistic and natural to your quarry. Fishing an artificial is a mental game. It’s easy to be distracted and simply cast and retrieve without any purpose or thought behind each presentation. Every cast should be made to correctly cover a specific segment of water and effectively put an offering in front of a fish. Simple things can make a difference. Here are a couple of examples. I watched an angler cast a swimming plug with a lip into the shallows, crank the reel handle four to six times so the plug dove downward along the dropoff, pause for a moment until the plug began to rise, and then continue the retrieve. If you stood next to him and simply retrieved the plug without pausing so it could rise, you couldn’t buy a strike. Another time, a friend who had been a guide was fishing with me. He kept getting strikes on his lure, while I became more frustrated with every cast, and we were using the same artificial. I watched his every move and tried to duplicate it to no avail. Finally, I asked him what he was doing that was different than my retrieve. As he worked his lure, he kept vibrating his hand. It was too subtle to see. Vibrating his wrist caused his lure to flash underwater just like a real baitfish. That made all the difference. Finding a school of breaking fish on the surface stirs the soul and telegraphs the imminent success to every fiber in your body. The key is to keep the boat away from the school while moving up ahead of it. Casts should be made in front of the school when possible or
at least close to it so that the retrieve follows the basic path of the school. Assuming the school is moving north, you want your retrieve to cover the northeast or northwest quadrant. It should move in the general direction of the main body of fish. Not very often will a school member chase a lure going in a direction opposite that of the main body of fish. Retrieving an artificial must make it appear to the fish that it is trying to escape. If the predator senses that the lure is moving toward it, you can bet it will spook. Every cast should be carefully calculated to make the lure look realistic. If a fish fails to strike, vary the retrieve. And, in cooler water, don’t overlook a slower retrieve. Those anglers who set the standards fishing artificial baits make every cast count. Follow their lead and you should begin to catch more and more fish on artificial lures.
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TACKLE CORNER:
GETTING A FRESH HANDLE ON SPINNING RODS By Mike Pehanich
T
he topic of spinning tackle can be a lightning rod among fishermen. Opinions on it vary greatly across the angling spectrum. Some rely on spinning tackle and, literally, can’t fish without it. Some hate it and can hardly broach discussion of this “down-side” style of fishing without a snide aside (“a birdsnest waiting to happen”) or epithet challenging the user’s manhood (“fairy wand”). In recent years, effective finesse techniques in the bass world have taken the fire out of the debate, and a sober “it’sjust-a-tool” mentality has cleared a place for spinning in the arsenals of most serious anglers. Design Disadvantage Outside the realm of partisan debate, however, spinning tackle has remained open to at least one legitimate complaint. The design of most spinning rods compels the fishermen to grip the rod across the reel seat and straddle the reel stem, leaving the angler’s hand little or no grip security and comfort. The design leads to particular disadvantage when fighting big fish or fishing in adverse weather conditions, from snowstorms and freezing cold to tropical humidity and lightning bolts. Fortunately, solutions have come to the fore. Here are three options to answer the spinning rod conundrum. Hooded Reel Seat With Polymer Grip: Hooded reel seats,
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such as those in Fuji’s VSS series, are designed for a grip shaped to extend over the reel seat. The design provides palm support—grip comfort and security at the palm interface—even with fingers straddling the spinning reel stem. Fuji, through its exclusive American distributor Anglers Resource, introduced a proprietary set of Winn grips (WVSS1615, WVS17), tailored to fit precisely with two of its newest and most popular spinning reel seats and its Perfect Fit Trim. This combination of grip and reel seat adds ergonomic benefit and puts more of the hand into contact with the non-slip Winn grip polymer. Aero Comfort Finish Reel Seat: American Tackle offers a spinning reel seat with a topside extension that delivers palm support. Like hooded reel seats, the design provides ergonomic benefit by supporting the palm, but it is a hood-like portion of the reel seat rather than grip material that reaches up to meet the palm. The “comfort finish” reduces the degree of hand slippage. Mummy wrap: West Coast saltwater anglers were the first to overwrap spinning rod handles with Winn Superior Rod Wrap, a “skin” of patented Winn polymer, known for its tackiness in adverse weather conditions. The tape-like material is backed with a forgiving adhesive that wraps easily around rod handles. The “mummy wrap” approach adds a continuous wrap from rod butt to foregrip with the reel already in place. The mummy wrap straddles the reel stem over both ends of the reel foot. Palm and fingers have complete contact with the non-slip polymer covering the entire handle. Check out the spinning rods in your arsenal, and see if one of these solutions can add comfort and effectiveness to your fishing. Rod wraps are simple solutions. Check with a custom rod builder or rod repairmen about retrofitting spinning rods with a new grip or reel seat.
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2/14/17 1:46 PM
EAGLE MARINE TRIO ROD HOLDER Eagle Marine’s new Trio Rod Holder conveniently stores three rods while only utilizing one rod holder in your boat’s gunnel. This setup is ideal for kite fishing or anytime when multiple rods will be used. All aluminum construction is bright dipped anodized to ensure many years of protection from the harsh marine environment. Custom soft PVC Liners help create a secure fit into the tapered rod holders that feature a welded cross pin. The Trio Rod Holder fits standard gunnel-mount rod holders. It features three 8 ½-inch tapered and flared rod holders with custom fitted white PVC liners. These rod holders are ideal for kite fishing or any time an angler needs to add more rods to a spread. For more information on this and all of Eagle Marine’s fine products, see www.eagleproducts.us/ eagle-marine/.
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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
2/14/17 1:46 PM
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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MARCH 2017
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UNDER $300...The Doctor’s Choice For ADVANCED HEARING AID TECHNOLOGY How can a hearing aid that costs less than $300 be every bit as good as one that sells
The MDHearingAid PRO® has been rigorously tested by leading ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) physicians and audiologists who have unanimously agreed that the sound quality and output in many cases exceeds more expensive hearing aids.
for $3,000 or more? Tremendous strides have been made in Advanced Hearing Aid Technology and those cost reductions have not passed on to you--Until Now.
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The fact is, you don’t need to pay high prices for a medical-grade FDA If you are not completely satisfied, simply return it within that registered hearing aid. Battery Compartment time period for a MDHearingAid PRO® is a high 100% refund of your performance hearing aid that works right purchase price. Outperforms Many Higher Priced Hearing Aids! out of the box with no time-consuming “adjustment” appointments. You can Since Medicare and most private insurance do conveniently access a hearing specialist not cover hearing aids, ENT surgeon Dr. Cherukuri online or by phone---even after the sale. designed a game-changing solution without GetMDHearingAid.com No other company provides such sacrificing the quality of components that you extensive support. can actually afford. Use Code: ® Over 75,000 satisfied customers agree. The result is the - MDHearingAid PRO For a Year Supply of Now that you know, why pay more? $ Power & Channel Switch
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“I have had this aid two days and all I can say is WOW!” --Terrsa H., Grove, NJ
BE ONE WITH THE FISH An Aqua-Vu HD underwater camera is the quickest way to find big bass. Unlike pixels and mysterious sonar signals, an Aqua-Vu reveals a live, crystal clear image of the underwater world. See largemouths buried in vegetation and brush, smallmouths hidden beside boulders, suspended spots and everything else beneath your boat.
DISCOVER THE TRUE UNDERWATER WORLD, IN REAL TIME AND FULL COLOR HD. > XD Camera with ultraclear 720p resolution > Waterproof & Sunlight Viewable 7-inch LCD > Anti-Spook IR Underwater Lights > 100-feet HD Cable, Charger & Custom Storage Bag www.aquavu.com
UNDERWATER VIEWING SYSTEMS
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2/14/17 1:46 PM
Nothing gets you closer to the fish than your small craft. And nothing anchors you better than a Power-Pole Micro anchor made just for your vessel. Add the Micro Battery Pak and you’re ready to go wherever adventure takes you.
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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MARCH 2017
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RHODAN INTRODUCES 72� SHAFT GPS GUIDED TROLLING MOTOR
New Longer Shaft for High Bow Boats Excellent for Offshore Fishing Same Superior GPS Technology
Feds Close Atlantic
Cobia Harvest Megan Willard with a stud cobia caught offshore of Hilton Head Island, S.C.
R
ecreational anglers are again feeling the sting of federal regulations. NOAA Fisheries announced in late January that cobia harvest in federal waters of the Atlantic from Georgia through New York will be closed for the remainder of 2017. As recreational anglers continue to scream of arbitrary data being used to set catch limits and estimate annual landings, NOAA says the recreational landings of Atlantic migratory group cobia exceeded 1.3 million pounds, more than double the annual allowable catch for 2016. These numbers came despite a closure in federal waters for nearly half of 2016, which was spurred when catch data from 2015 indicated an even larger recreational catch of 1.55 million pounds. Federal waters begin outside of three miles in the Atlantic, and a large majority of the recreational cobia catch occurs within state waters when these brown bombers migrate to shore and northward in the warming waters of spring and summer. NOAA has predicted the annual catch limit will again be exceeded in 2017, as state marine fisheries managers refuse to fall into line with strict federal regulations. NOAA has said the federal closure will be reevaluated if state regulations change in 2017. This federal closure does not apply to cobia on the Atlantic coast of Florida, which are part of the Gulf of Mexico migratory group. It also does not change regulations for commercial anglers, who will still be allowed two cobia per day.
4X More Accurate 36% More Efficient Outstanding Customer Support
PWC Fishing Towers
www.gpsanchor.com 38
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888-434-7726
Enclosures
Rod Holders
Casting Platform
E-Box
Accessory Mounts
Lights
Storage Bag
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
2/14/17 1:46 PM
SAVE 64%
SUPER COUPON
7 FT. 4" x 9 FT. 6" ALL PURPOSE WEATHER RESISTANT TARP
ITEM 69249/69115/69137 69129/69121/877 shown
SUPER COUPON
$2
99
4
comp at $8.48 $ 99
LIMIT 6 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
SAVE 68%
1500 WATT DUAL TEMPERATURE HEAT GUN (572°/1112°) SUPER COUPON
ITEM 62340/62546 63104/96289 shown Customer Rating
$
$899
12
SUPER COUPON
20% OFF
# 1 SELLING
RAPID PUMP® 1.5 TON ALUMINUM RACING JACK
Customer Rating
ITEM 69252/68053 62160/62496/62516 60569 shown
• 3-1/2 Pumps Lifts Most Vehicles • Weighs 34 lbs.
SAVE $70
SUPER COUPON
ANY SINGLE ITEM
$5 999 79
Limit 1 coupon per customer per day. Save 20% on any 1 item purchased. *Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or any of the following items or brands: Inside Track Club membership, Extended Service Plan, gift card, open box item, 3 day Parking Lot Sale item, compressors, floor jacks, saw mills, storage cabinets, chests or carts, trailers, trenchers, welders, Admiral, Bauer, CoverPro, Daytona, Earthquake, Hercules, Jupiter, Lynxx, Poulan, Predator, StormCat, Tailgator, Viking, Vulcan. Not valid on prior purchases. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17.
$
comp at
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
60", 4 DRAWER HARDWOOD WORKBENCH Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
ITEM 93454/69054 63395/62603 shown
SAVE $265
12 VOLT, 10/2/50 AMP BATTERY CHARGER/ ENGINE STARTER
Tools sold separately.
Customer Rating
$12999 $15999 $395
comp at 99 $198.45
3-IN-1 PORTABLE POWER PACK WITH JUMP STARTER
comp at
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SAVE 36%
ITEM 38391/62376/62306 shown
SAVE 38% $
SAE
SUPER COUPON
$699 9
METRIC
YOUR CHOICE
$5
99
8
$ 99
SAVE SUPER COUPON 66%
$1499 $1799
comp at
$14.97
LIMIT 7 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
NATIONAL
Customer Rating
MARCH 2017
comp at
8 Functions: Sanding, Remove Grout, Cut Metal, Cut Flooring, Cut Plastic, Plunge Cut, Scrape Concrete, Scrape Flooring
$44.99
SAVE 83% $
comp at
SAVE $83
SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating
$
$1 1999
14999
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
ITEM 61196 62392/69597 38846 shown
SAVE 48%
SUPER COUPON $
$17
99
2199
comp at
$34.99
LIMIT 6 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior
presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
1500 LB. CAPACITY DUAL WHEEL SWING-BACK BOAT SAVE 37% TRAILER JACK
Customer Rating
SA 85
comp at
$203.73
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
Customer Rating
ITEM 6922 6922
ITEM 62443 68751 shown
LIMIT 6 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
3 TON HEAVY DUTY STEEL JACK STANDS
LIMIT 800-423 purchas Offer g present
SUPER COUPON
45 WATT SOLAR PANEL 10 PIECE KIT
$999
1999 $59.98
$98.62
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior
NAT_0317.indd 40
5999 comp at
29 PIECE TITANIUM NITRIDE COATED ITEM 62281/61637 shown HIGH SPEED STEEL DRILL BIT SET
purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be
hft_coastalangler_0317_spread_M-REG100630.indd 2-3
$
comp at
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON ITEM 62279/62302/62866 68861 shown
MULTIFUNCTION POWER TOOL
$3999
99
Customer Rating
$10.99
LIMIT 7 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
ITEM 69043/63282/42304 shown ITEM 42305/69044/63171
SAVE 59%
YOUR CHOICE
49 $2999 $69.99 $
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
$ 99 comp at
comp at
9 PIECE FULLY POLISHED SAVE 59% COMBINATION WRENCH SETS
40
ITEM 61740/63109 63152/4077 shown
5999 $64.99 SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating
12 VOLT, 250 PSI PORTABLE INFLATOR
99
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SAVE 57%
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
$39
B. PANCAKE
B SUPER COUPON
Cu
ITEM 95275 shown 60637/61615
Customer Rating
$5999
SUPER COUPON
A. HOT DOG
ITEM 69269/97080 shown
A
69265/62344
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
3 GALLON, 100 PSI OILLESS AIR COMPRESSORS
ITEM 60581/60653 shown
SUPER COUPON
79
SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating
SAVE RETRACTABLE AIR HOSE REEL $138 WITH 3/8" x 50 FT. HOSE ITEM 93897 shown
$
S
99
$129.99
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
comp at 99 $28.83
LIMIT 6 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
JACKS IN AMERICA
LIMIT 800-423 purchase Offer g presente
SAV 65
ITEM 69779 67500 shown
$2999 99 7 $2 $44.99
SUPER COUPON
LIMIT 800-423 purchas Offer g presente
comp at
LIMIT 3 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
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75
OG
own
WITH
ITEM 63599/69052 shown 69111/62522/62573
SUPER COUPON
$
14999
comp at
$9999
$205.99
Customer Rating
12" SLIDING COMPOUND DOUBLE-BEVEL MITER SAW Customer Rating WITH LASER GUIDE
2000 WATT CONTINUOUS/ 4000 WATT PEAK POWER INVERTER
Customer Rating
ITEM 60432 69662 shown
ITEM 63091/63248 68998 shown
SUPER COUPON
$2999 SAVE $ $76
900 PEAK/700 RUNNING WATTS, 2 HP (63CC) 2 CYCLE GAS GENERATOR EPA/CARB
19999
$339
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SAVE $95
SUPER COUPON
$11999 $16999 $215.41 comp at
LIMIT 3 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
ITEM 46807/68975 69221/62123/63017 BAR 69222 shown
12" RATCHET CLAMP/SPREADER
WIRELESS SECURITY ALERT SYSTEM
3
t
$
$299
comp at
ITEM 93068 shown 69590/61910/62447 Customer Rating
SAVE 68%
SUPER COUPON
$ 99
1499 SUPER COUPON 99 comp at
$20.76
$31.46
LIMIT 6 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
SAVE $60
MAGNETIC TRAILER ALIGNMENT KIT Customer Rating
9
$ 99
comp at
$19.99
ITEM 69778
SUPER COUPON
$6
$
LIMIT 8 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
NAT_0317.indd 41
•
• No Gas Required
120 AMP FLUX WIRE WELDER
ITEM 61849/62719 Customer Rating 68887 shown
SUPER COUPON
99
750+ Stores Nationwide
$9
LIMIT 9 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
SAVE 65%
comp at
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
ITEM 63024 63025 shown
SUPER COUPON
$8999 $10999
99
comp at 99 $149.99
$8999
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SAVE NOW
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
3
SAVE 85%
3799 $106.34
SUPER COUPON
18 VOLT CORDLESS 3/8" DRILL/DRIVER WITH KEYLESS CHUCK SUPER COUPON
comp at
wn
ing rior ipt. be day.
SUPER COUPON
130 PIECE TOOL KIT WITH CASE
ITEM 69651 62868/62873 68239 shown
$13499
$
comp at
9
$ 99 $19.97
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
Blade sold separately.
• 1000 lb. capacity
LIMIT 1 - Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or prior purchase. Coupon good at our stores, HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Offer good while supplies last. Shipping & Handling charges may apply if not picked up in-store. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one FREE GIFT coupon per customer per day.
SAVE $204
ON
ON
$7
99
VALUE
SUPER COUPON
ITEM 61969/61970 69684 shown
62
ing rior ipt. be day.
SAVE $106
SAVE 59%
SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating
E
3
ITEM 60497/93888 shown 61899/62399/63095/63096 63098/63097
4
SUPER COUPON
E %
N
MOVER'S DOLLY
Customer Rating
$ 97
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
15
9
ANY PURCHASE
SUPER COUPON
3-1/2" SUPER BRIGHT NINE LED ALUMINUM FLASHLIGHT
KE
L T
10 FT. x 20 FT. PORTABLE CAR CANOPY
ITEM 63054/60728/69034/62858 shown
own
alling prior ceipt. be day.
FREE
SUPER COUPON ™
inal day.
SS RS
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
80 PIECE ROTARY TOOL KIT ITEM 97626 shown 68986/69451 63235/63292
$1699
Customer Rating
Includes one 18V NiCd battery and charger.
SAVE $ 65%
1999 $49 comp at
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
ITEM 69924 shown 62403/62862 Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
6" VARIABLE SPEED DUAL ACTION POLISHER SAVE $95
SUPER COUPON comp at SAVE $ 99 71% $24.15
9
$
LIMIT 7 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
PORTABLE FISH FINDER ITEM 62675/94511 SAVE Customer Rating 46%
$
SUPER COUPON
$699
MULTI-USE TRANSFER PUMP
ITEM 62961/63144/61364 63591/66418 shown
SAVE 59%
$65
At Harbor Freight Tools, the “comp at” price means that the same item or a similar functioning item was advertised for sale at or above the "comp at" price by another retailer in the U.S. within the past 180 days. Prices advertised by others may vary by location. No other meaning of "comp at" should be implied. For more information, go to HarborFreight.com or see store associate.
HarborFreight.com • 800-423-2567 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
$149.99
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
LIMIT 3 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
comp at
LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
3999 $3499
comp at
6999
$5499
Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
6
$499
$ 99 comp at $12.39
LIMIT 7 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior from original purchase with original receipt. last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
purchases after2017 30 days MARCH Offer good while supplies
NATIONAL
41
2/14/17 1:46 PM 2/13/17 10:14 AM
THIS YEAR, MAKE THE MOST OF EVERY DAY ON THE WATER
OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE MATCHED BY EXCEPTIONAL VALUE TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THESE SPECIAL BOAT SHOW OFFERS FROM SUZUKI MARINE
REPOWER FINANCE
Six Years of Protection at no extra charge on all new outboards 25 to 300 HP.
Cash Rebates on select models. See your dealer for details.
Rates as low as 5.99% on new outboards (OAC).*
Offers end March 31, 2017. See your participating Suzuki Marine dealer for details or visit www.suzukimarine.com.
42
Gimme Six Extended Protection promo is applicable to new Suzuki Outboard Motors from 25 to 300 HP in inventory which are sold and delivered to buyer between 01/01/17 and 3/31/17 in accordance with the promotion by a Participating Authorized Suzuki Marine dealer in the continental US and Alaska to a purchasing customer who resides in the continental US or Alaska. Customer should expect to receive an acknowledgement letter and full copy of contract including terms, conditions and wallet card from Suzuki Extended Protection within 90 days of purchase. If an acknowledgement letter is not received in time period stated, contact Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. – Marine Marketing via email: marinepromo@suz.com. The Gimme Six Promotion is available for pleasure use only, and is not redeemable for cash. Cash Rebates apply to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki Outboard Motors made between 01/01/17 and 3/31/17. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine.com. Customer and participating Dealer must fill out the appropriate rebate form at time of sale. Customer will have the choice to either apply the cash rebate against the original dealer invoice (Suzuki will credit Dealer parts account) or have a check sent directly to the customer. There are no model substitutions, benefit substitutions, rain checks, or extensions. Suzuki reserves the right to change or cancel these promotions at any time without notice or obligation. * Financing offers available through Synchrony Retail Finance. As low as 5.99% APR financing for 60 months on new and unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors. Subject to credit approval. Not all buyers will qualify. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. $19.99/month per $1,000 financed for 60 months is based on 5.99% APR. Hypothetical figures used in calculation; your actual monthly payment may differ based on financing terms, credit tier qualification, accessories or other factors such as down payment and fees. Offer effective on new, unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors purchased from a participating authorized Suzuki dealer between 01/01/17 and 3/31/17.“Gimme Six”, the Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2017 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.
NATIONAL
NAT_0317.indd 42
SZ_Q1Promo_WIP.indd 1
MARCH 2017
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
2/14/17 1:46 PM
12/4/16 1:46 PM
SPIDERWIRE® STEALTH™
EXTREMELY STRONG EXTREMELY CASTABLE
GO THE DISTANCE WITH STEALTH SMOOTH 8 CARRIER TIGHT-WEAVE BRAID WITH A SUPER SMOOTH, SUPER THIN COATING FOR QUIET AND EFFORTLESS CASTING
SPIDERWIRE.COM COMMON CVRS_0317.indd 3
2/13/17 11:38 AM
WHATEVER THE SEA THROWS AT YOU, STAND YOUR GROUND. BUILT FOR ALASKA, FIT FOR EVERYONE XTRATUF boots have been proven and tested in the unforgiving Alaskan seas. Now, that same toughness is available in the XTRATUF Performance Deck Boot. With a non-marking, slip-resistant Chevron outsole, these 100% waterproof boots are as tough as the elements.
Kryptek Pontus Kryptek Yeti
www.xtratuf.com © 2017 Honeywell International Inc.
COMMON CVRS_0317.indd 4
INTRODUCING THE NEW KRYPTEK ANKLE DECK BOOT
2/13/17 11:38 AM