Coastal Angler Magazine | July 2020 | North Central Florida Edition by Coastal Angler Magazine

NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA/NATURE COAST EDITION

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UNDER the LIGHTS PHOTO BY CAPT. CHASE FULTON / WATER DAMAGE SPORTFISHING INSTAGRAM: @CAPTCHASEFULTON VOLUME 25 â&#x20AC;¢ ISSUE 304

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JULY 2020

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LIMITING OUT ON GULF SNAPPER

ast month, a couple buddies and I booked a charter for the opening day of Florida’s Gulf red snapper season with Capt. Brian Smith, of Big Bend Charters out of Steinhatchee. Capt. B. has a 34-foot power catamaran with enough room on the deck to play a game of volleyball. If you’ve ever been red snapper fishing, you understand the process. The day starts with loading the boat with tackle ranging from 8-pound light tackle to 30-pound bottom fishing rigs. A complement of frozen baits, including Spanish sardines, squid and chum blocks fill one of the big coolers. We ran out to a spot south of the Steinhatchee River and broke out light tackle to catch live bait. It’s basically bream fishing gear, using tiny slivers of squid to catch pinfish and other finned critters. All would be used to create an offshore smorgasbord for snapper, grouper, king mackerel, cobia and more. With the livewell full, it was just over an hour’s run at 27 knots to reach our first drop in 65 feet of water. We were anchored over a ledge with about 3 feet of relief. That doesn’t seem like much, but in the vast expanse of flat bottom out there, a small change in the topography can create an entire ecosystem. Each of us took a corner of the big catamaran and dropped live baits down. Before the bait could reach the bottom, our offerings were usually inhaled by either a grouper or a snapper. These were not small fish. The snapper averaged about 28 inches, and the grouper

were well in excess of the 24-inch minimum length. We would catch a couple fish at a spot and then move to another. The idea is that once you get a couple fish on the line, the remaining fish tend to get a bit finicky, and the bite can slow down. When a fish came on board, we paused for a quick photo and shouted “atta-boy” from across the boat. In all, we limited out on red snapper and had five gag grouper as bonus fish for the day. From first-hand experience I can tell you there’s no shortage of bottomfishing adventure to be had in the Gulf of Mexico. The Florida Gulf snapper season remains open through July 25. Alabama’s season runs Fridays through Mondays until July 19. Louisiana will remain open Fridays through Su nd ay s , and on

By Capt. Cefus McRae

holidays, until the state quota is met. Mississippi is open seven days a week with an undetermined closing date as fisheries managers closely monitor catches to avoid overrunning the quota. The Texas season ends Aug. 2 for charter boats and Aug. 3 for private vessels. As summer gets in full swing, give some thought to ways you can get outdoors, enjoy each other’s company at a distance and get rid of those social-distancing blues. Cefus McRae is host of the Nuts & Bolts of Fishing Series, contact him via e-mail at Cefus@ NutsAndBoltsFishing.com

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teamed blue crabs seasoned with J.O. No.2 or a custom blend that J.O. manufactures is the flavor people experience at crab establishments all over. Most people credit this crab house seasoning to another product but J.O. has been the crab houses’ seasoning of choice since 1945. J.O. Spice, started by J.O. (James Ozzle) Strigle and his wife Dot in Baltimore City in 1945, is celebrating its 75th Anniversary. A native of Tangier Island, Va., J.O. Strigle brought the seafood spice blend he created in his kitchen on the island to Maryland. Jane McPhaul, J.O.’s daughter took over operations of the family business in the late eighties while her son, Don Ports, was serving in the Marine Corps. In 1990 Don joined his mother in the family business with a vision to expand. In the summer of 1991 Don met his spice girl, Ginger, with the pick up line, “you’re destined to be mine; you’re named for a spice,” said J.O. Spice Company president Don Ports to wife Ginger Ports the moment they met. Twenty eight years later, Don and Ginger- alongside their children Brittany, Tyler and Bethany, are continuing the family traditions of quality seasonings, spices, and more at reasonable prices at their Halethorpe based J.O. Spice Company. “We can provide crab houses everything they need for the crab eating experience, minus the crabs”, Don says. The company added crab boxes, crab paper, bushel baskets, crab knives, crab mallets and a variety of other items to their offerings. “We purchased our first laser engraver and that opened the door to the retail gift world and personalized options,” Don says. J.O. specializes in custom blended seasonings for pizza companies, pit beef stands, butchers, potato chip companies and more. We are more than seafood seasonings. “My children, the fourth generation, and our amazing team work side-by-side to make all of this happen,” Ginger says. “At J.O., we are all family who enjoy working with so many other family businesses. We are blessed.” Please visit us at jospices.com.

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uring the 2016 Southern Kingfish Association National Championship in Fort Pierce, Fla., Capt. Steve Sprague of Team Tuppens used Garmin electronics with SiriusXM Marine weather to guide him on a last-minute change to his game plan that made all the difference. Moving south to warmer water identified by the Sea Surface Temperature feature of his SiriusXM service, Capt. Sprague guided Team Tuppens to an SKA National Championship with a $140,000 purse. With that kind of cash, it’s safe to say his SXM service paid for itself for many years! Capt. Sprague has relied on SiriusXM’s satellite-delivered weather and Sea Surface Temperature data for years to help locate edges of temperature breaks faster and stay ahead of the weather.

HERE'S WHAT THE PROS SAY ABOUT SIRIUSXM MARINE: “Using SiriusXM’s Sea surface Temperature feature I saw that cold water had moved in all the way down south near Jupiter, so we decided to head down there until the water temperature came up a little. That’s when we caught that big 62.33-pound kingfish which held on to be the largest fish of the tournament. The Garmin GXM-54 weather receiver allows us to receive SiriusXM Marine weather and other important water temperature data that helps us make critical decisions about where we fish. Without this information, I wouldn’t have known to make the decision to head south that ended up helping us win the SKA National Championship.” — Capt. Steve Sprague, Team Tuppens

Now SiriusXM Marine has added more fishing features in their newest, most comprehensive service package, Fish Mapping. Delivering regularly updated, science-based data via satellite to compatible Garmin multifunction displays, this service is available well beyond cellular range to help you find the hot fishing spots faster—saving time and fuel. Fishing features include recommended locations for specific game fish, Weed Lines, Sea Surface Temperatures and Front Strength, Sub Surface Sea Temperatures, Sea Surface Height Variance, and Plankton Concentration data. Fish Mapping also includes all the weather information in SiriusXM’s Marine Offshore package. SiriusXM Marine weather and fishing data are great for offshore anglers fishing in tournaments, taking clients on charter trips or just fishing for fun. For more information, visit www.siriusxm.com/FishMapping

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TROPHY HUNTING

Finding a productive pattern and making high-percentage presentations wins tournaments; it does not typically catch double-digit bass. Bass large enough for the record books are loners. Anglers who pursue them are looking for one big bite. Here’s a little insight on how successful trophy hunters fish:

LOCATION: With a few exceptions, large reservoirs are not the best trophy bass fisheries. It’d be a good wager that more giant bass are caught from jonboats than from high-performance bass boats. There is a south Georgia gentleman, who prefers to remain unnamed, who has caught countless 10-plus-pounders and several fish that weigh in the high teens. He’s made a practice of looking for out-of-the-way lakes and ponds. Upon getting landowner permission, it takes him a single trip to determine if he’s found the right mix of depth, water flow, vegetation and forage to produce monster bass. If the lake doesn’t have what he’s looking for, he moves on. If he sees what he likes, he fishes it hard, often at night and often concentrating on just one point or drop-off where the biggest fish in the lake is likely to be. The strategy is to make a thousand casts to the best holding water or to sit there quietly By CAM Staff for hours keeping a live bait fresh. When it comes to public waters, smaller reservoirs or hidden gems like oxbow lakes off productive rivers can be pay dirt. Find waters with a reputation for large fish, and then scour them with electronics for the edges where sunken creek channels with plenty of cover lie adjacent to shallower feeding areas. Keep in mind that large fish dominate prime holding areas. Find that magic spot, fish it hard, and it will produce year after year, even if hile perusing the various big-bass records lists, it becomes readily it’s just one big fish for a week’s worth of fishing. apparent that huge bass usually come from lakes with a bigbass reputation. Also, anglers appearing in these lists often have TACTICS: Giant bass don’t like to chase food, and they prefer large multiple large bass to their names. meals. Trophy bass hunting with lures is slow and tedious. Drag a big jig with There is a lesson here for anyone in search of their personal-best a chunky trailer across the bottom, Texas-rig a big 12- to 16-inch worm or largemouth. Whether it’s a 10-pounder or one that weighs into the teens, slow-dance a swimbait. Fish as slow as you can, and then slow down more. luck is rarely the primary factor that leads to a true giant. Most of the time Stick with it and remain vigilant. Remember that you’re fishing for one bite. anglers who catch monster bass use specialized tactics to specifically target If you’re not snooty about it, live bait will absolutely increase your odds. them. Go with the natural forage for the water you’re fishing. If it’s gizzard shad, These are not the tactics used by professional tournament anglers. fish a big one. Largemouth bass have huge mouths relative to their body size.

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TIME TO SWITCH TO SUMMER TACTICS

Keep at least one person on the sabiki until the livewell is completely full. Keep a big beautiful bait out under a float and one down 20 or 30 feet deep right around the outside of the circle of light. I like to call this area “the ring of death.” It is where the light dissipates into dark water. Don’t act surprised when a large wahoo swims right by the boat Tim Barefoot for a good look and then returns 30 seconds later to smoke a bait. The anticipation followed by the visible ferocity of a bite hen it comes to like this is exhilarating. summertime This time of year is also fishing, here when some of the snappers are some observations I’ve and the kingfish spawn. made over the years. Typically it peaks on a new Around the end of or full moon in mid July. June and the beginning of It’s a good time of year to July, changes in daytime catch a real “smoker” on temperatures and the light line. duration of daylight hours The night bite can be make it wise to fish at awesome this time of year, night. The major feeding but another advantage periods each day occur to fishing at night is the at dawn and dusk. It’s the comfort factor. Set up time of year when you offshore just before dark, need to set aside some and you don’t have to time to fish both inshore worry about sunburn. and offshore at night. Catch the livewell full of Offshore fishing can squid and baitfish, catch be red hot right now with U.S.A.F. Photo by William Blankenship fish all night, and be there the use of lights. Full disclosure: I know the owner of Hydro Glow and have used his products for the early morning bite. Get your work done in the early morning, then go home and get some sleep while the fish are “chillin’ out” in the cooler. for years. I am convinced the green light draws fish to the boat. I always anchor when I’m in water shallower than 200 to 250 feet, and this is a perfect time to put the lights out to attract bait like flying fish, For rigging and fishing videos, go to squid, sardines and cigar minnows up to the surface where they are very BAREFOOTCATSAND TACKLE.COM vulnerable to a sabiki.

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GILLZ PERFORMANCE FISHING APPAREL

ummer is here. It’s time to cast off and fish on. Gillz’ innovative fabric and design enhancements keep you cool and comfortable even on the hottest summer days. Gillz shirts move effortlessly and won’t cling as you twist and turn in a battle of wills with a feisty snook. From their 30 percent cooler GillzTec fabric to their cross-breeze ventilation system, Gillz strives to make its gear the freshest and most comfortable on the water. And of course, they provide all-day protection from UV rays that are particularly harmful during the summertime. So, grab yourself a t-shirt, shorts, a hat, a pair of sunglasses and rock the boat. Gillz has everything you need for a summer of tight lines. Summer fishing has never been so comfortable.

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JULY 2020

NATIONAL 13

FOUR DAYS

OF RED SNAPPER IN THE SOUTH ATLANTIC By CAM Staff

PHOTO BY NICK CARTER

omething is better than nothing. That seems to be the consensus of anglers after NOAA’s early June announcement of a four-day recreational red snapper season in the South Atlantic. With open dates set for July 10-12 and July 17, recreational anglers and charter captains are hoping for good weather during what promises to become a mad scramble at boat ramps from the Florida Keys up the Atlantic coast through Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina. The well-known reefs and wrecks will be packed with anglers dropping baits and jockeying for position to catch their one fish per person, per day limit with no minimum size. For some, catching those limits won’t take long at all. Reports from captains in the fishery tell of areas where an over-abundance of red snapper is making it tough to target any other species. All the while, data used by federal fisheries managers indicates overfishing for the species is still occurring. Since 2017, the South Atlantic red snapper season has been curtailed each year. Since 2010, a cumulative total of just 37 days has been allowed in South Atlantic federal waters. In May of this year, the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council (SAFMC) was scrambling to make rule changes that would allow any 2020 season at all. Effective July 15, regulations require descending devices be on board and readily available on all vessels pursuing grouper or snapper in the South Atlantic. Non-offset, non-stainless steel hooks are mandatory north of 28 degrees north latitude, which is near Cape Canaveral. It’s a similar scenario to what played out with red snapper seasons in the Gulf of Mexico over the last decade. Bound by legislation, federal managers are forced to make decisions based on available data on snapper stocks. At the same time, anglers and groups pushing for angler access insist the data is badly flawed. According to the American Sportfishing Association, the trade organization that produces ICAST and lobbies on behalf of the industry, an updated and improved red snapper stock assessment is due in spring of 2021. In the meantime, recreational anglers must be happy with what they get, which is roughly 70 percent of the total allowed catch. Commercial anglers get the other 30 percent.

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his month marks the launch of CCA Florida STAR, a summer-long competition put on by the state’s leading organization dedicated to marine fisheries conservation. STAR invites anglers and nonanglers to participate and win prizes valued at almost $500,000, including boats, motors, scholarships and more. With an official start date of July 1, STAR focuses on conservation with its catch, photo and release format and unique garbage division. Additionally, the STAR competition is driven by its smartphone app, which promotes proper handling of species and allows participants to upload competition photos, eliminating the requirement to harvest or capture and transport fish. CCA Florida also uses the app to educate the public on the importance of protecting Florida’s marine resources. “In the past five years, it’s been amazing to see STAR participants catch more fish, release them back to the water and support recovery efforts – all to conserve and enhance our state’s coastal waters and marine resources.” CCA Florida STAR Director Leiza Fitzgerald said. “But, what’s been just as exciting, is awarding more than $1 million in prizes, including $500,000 exclusively for youth scholarships, to the thousands of STAR registrants.” The 2020 STAR competition is comprised of 17 divisions targeting 12 species. STAR’s signature category is the iHeart Radio Tagged Redfish Division, and prizes in this exclusive division include a Contender Boats 22 Sport, Pathfinder Boats 2200 TRS, Hewes Redfisher 16 and 21’ Carolina Skiff all powered by Yamaha Outboards. For the first two youth anglers who win this division, prizes include two Salt Marsh Skiff 1656 tiller boats powered with Yamaha Outboards, trailers, Minn Kota trolling motors and Humminbird electronics. This year’s newest division, the Tagged Dolphin Division (mahi mahi), offers one winner a $10,000 cash prize. The first STAR registrant and CCA Florida member who catches one of 20 tagged dolphins, tagged and

released in the coastal waters of Florida by the Dolphin Research program implemented by the Beyond Our Shores foundation, will win. STAR is a family friendly competition, and CCA Florida youth members (ages 6 to 17) can participate for free. Kids are encouraged to submit entries in the Youth Scholarship Division presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors for a chance to win a scholarship, with more than $100,000 available. Other divisions include ladies, kayak, guides and many more. Since most division winners are determined by a random drawing, it is not about the catching the biggest fish but submitting the most qualifying entries. STAR’s technology-based format encourages participants of all ages to protect and conserve Florida’s fisheries for today and future generations. Registration is open now and ends Oct. 4. Anglers must be registered to be eligible for prizes.

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ag grouper are rated E for everyone. The gag belongs to a family of over 400 different types of grouper. Florida’s favorites include black, red and gag groupers. Gags have long compressed bodies, and their coloring is unique to each fish. Generally, large gags have a darker brown or grayish tint. I have caught smaller ones that are lighter in color with dark brown markings. Their large mouths allow them to engulf large prey. Here are a few facts to keep in the back of your head. Gag grouper grow slowly, but they can reach over 3 feet in length and weigh more than 50 pounds. They can live as long as 30 years. They are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they begin life as females and sexually mature at around the age of 4. As they grow and mature to around the age of 8 some of them become males. Gags like to dine on fish. Pinners and grunts are candy, squid and sardines are great dead bait, and you can occasionally catch one on crabs or shrimp. Gags are a structure-loving, shelter-seeking fish. Larger fish prefer rocky bottom offshore, while younger fish can also be found inshore on rocky and grassy bottoms. Popular homesteads for these fish include ledges and holes, and they party on offshore reefs and shipwrecks. Live bait or cut dead bait is the best option for beginning anglers, and a live pinfish or grunt is a gag’s drug of choice. Don’t forget that much of Florida’s coast requires a circle hook when bottom fishing, and the seasons vary as well. For the pundits, artificial options include vertical jigs, bucktails and trolling with deep-diving hard baits. Regardless of the bait used, one thing remains steadfast, the strike! Gags are a very aggressive and will fight to the end at all depths. These fish are the embodiment of power, and once hooked their sole objective is to return to the hole, rock or ledge from which they were plucked. If you are slow to react, you will most likely get “rocked up.” Grouper will flare their gills if given the chance to get back to structure, which literally locks them in place. I have learned a few tricks over the years to get out of this situation, and you will too should it happen to you. Heavy gear is a must for gags, as well as a locked drag. Gag grouper is a fish that can be enjoyed by even the most finicky of eaters. It is a lean, moist fish with a very mild flavor, large white flakes and a firm texture. A few Florida favorite recipes include the infamous grouper sandwich and grouper nuggets. For a refined palette, gag is a wonderful fish for a Moqueca. Rosemary White is active on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.

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t’s the time of year when attention turns to deep-water species like snapper and grouper. When releasing these fish, anglers should look for signs of barotrauma and be prepared to respond. Handling and releasing fish to give them the highest chance for survival helps conserve our fisheries for the future. Barotrauma is seen in many fish caught at depths greater than 50 feet. It is caused by pressure changes leading to an expansion of gases in the swim bladder. Signs of barotrauma include the stomach coming out of the mouth, bloated belly, distended intestines and bulging eyes. Barotrauma can cause damage to internal organs and can be fatal unless appropriate steps are taken. It’s important to have tools available and know how to use them to help fish return to the bottom more safely. Descending devices take fish back down to a depth where increased pressure from the water will recompress swim bladder gases. They fall into three categories: mouth clamps, inverted hooks and fish elevators. With proper set-up and practice, descending devices can be easy to use and make a big impact on the survival of released fish. Venting tools are sharp, hollow instruments that treat barotrauma by releasing expanded gas from the swim bladder, enabling fish to swim back down. Fillet knives, ice picks, screwdrivers and gaffs are not venting tools and should never be used to vent a fish. Venting a fish incorrectly may do more harm than good. To properly vent a fish, lay it on its side on a cool, wet surface. A venting tool should be inserted 1 to 2 inches behind the base of the pectoral fin,

2 NORTH FLORIDA

JULY 2020

under a scale at a 45-degree angle, just deep enough to release trapped gasses. Never insert a venting tool into a fish’s belly, back or stomach that might be protruding from its mouth. Descending devices and venting tools should only be used when fish show one or more signs of barotrauma and cannot swim back down on their own. It is essential to work quickly to return the fish to the water as quickly as possible. Anglers should also use proper gear when fishing for reef fish. Nonstainless steel inline (non-offset) circle hooks with the barb crimped down often hook in the mouth rather than the gut, making it easier to release fish. Dehooking tools also help quickly release fish so you can get back to fishing. To learn about reef fish gear rules for circle hooks and dehooking tools, visit MyFWC.com/Marine and click on “Recreational Regulations,” then click “Gear Rules” under the Reef Fish tab. To learn more about proper fish handling techniques, visit MyFWC.com/FishHandling.

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Cary & Lynn Crutchfield ALACHUA, MARION, COLUMBIA, GILCHRIST, BRADFORD, DIXIE, LEVY, CITRUS

JULY

few weeks ago, I thought, “Can the problems in our world get any worse?” I guess the universe accepted my thoughts as a challenge. Please see page 15 for new advertiser, Jim King Realty, Inc. on Main Street in Chiefland. Through three generations, they have been your hometown realtor. Give them a call and let their experience work for you. Were you awarded an alligator hunting permit for the state alligator hunt? Do you need a guide? See page 9. My recipe this month, Red, White and Blue (and a bit of gold) Summer Salad with Shrimp and Grouper Cheeks, on page 2 is as delicious and healthy, as it is beautiful! See my “secret” ingredient in the dressing. If you have fishing questions, the greatest fishing experts of the world write for my magazine. Call them. Please thank them for taking their time to write for us and sharing their knowledge and experience. Also, visit or call our advertisers. Without them, there is no Coastal Angler NCF/NC. Go outside, enjoy summer, enjoy our waterways, and please be smart; wear your mask, remember six-foot distancing, wash your hands, and stay well and alive. Over the past two nights, Cary and I rescued five very young kittens, about four weeks old, abandoned on our access road. (What kind of a human can abandon a life, even a feline life?) We have five cats already and we don’t need five more. Please consider adopting one, or more, of these precious babies. Three are black and white, one is gray and white and one is all black. They have been well cared for, are healthy and litter box trained. HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA! Lynn Crutchfield Co-Publisher Coastal Angler Magazine of North Central Florida/ Nature Coast

JULY 2020 EDITION

Find Your Outdoors Here! North Central Florida Nature Coast Staff SALES

Cary Crutchfield

EDITING & PRODUCTION Lynn Crutchfield

DISTRIBUTION Rosa Crisman

GRAPHIC ARTS & DESIGN Kathleen Stemley

WEB DESIGN Kristi Williams

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dr. Kevin McCarthy Bruce Butler John Freeze Capt. Jason Clark Capt. Dan Clymer Capt. Tommy Derringer Capt. Eric Hasty Capt. Stacy Horak Capt. James Kerr Capt. Pat McGriff Capt. Dan Smith

CONTACT INFORMATION

crutch@coastalanglermagazine.com 352-372-4237 www.CoastalAnglerMag.com/NC-Florida

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Tide Charts Local Fishing Forecasts Monthly Recipe

Photo by: Suwannee River Water Management District

RED, WHITE AND BLUE (AND A BIT OF GOLD) SUMMER SALAD WITH SHRIMP AND GROUPER CHEEKS

River, being Garde with a of the with S

Thank you to The Crab Plant for the beautiful grouper cheeks and shrimp. Visit their Fresh Seafood Market or enjoy Cooked Seafood to go. You are welcome to sit at their table and view beautiful Kings Bay while you enjoy your delicious, freshly prepared meal, watching manatees, dolphins, pelicans and boats. Or, you can carry it home; your choice. Open Tues-Thurs 10:00-5:30, Fri-Sat 10:00-8:00. 201 NW 5th St. Crystal River 352-795-4700.

Lynn Crutchfield, Co-Publisher Coastal Angler Magazine of North Central Florida

TIDES • North Central Florida Time Height

1W 2Th

4Sa

5Su

7Tu

4:55 AM 10:54 AM 6:10 PM 12:44 AM 5:51 AM 11:42 AM 7:08 PM 1:47 AM 6:44 AM 12:29 PM 8:00 PM 2:39 AM 7:36 AM 1:16 PM 8:47 PM 3:26 AM 8:24 AM 2:01 PM 9:30 PM 4:08 AM 9:10 AM 2:46 PM 10:10 PM 4:48 AM 9:55 AM 3:30 PM 10:49 PM 5:24 AM 10:41 AM 4:16 PM 11:25 PM

1.6 4.1 0.0 3.2 1.7 4.2 -0.3 3.3 1.8 4.4 -0.4 3.3 1.9 4.4 -0.5 3.3 1.9 4.4 -0.4 3.3 1.8 4.3 -0.2 3.3 1.8 4.1 0.0 3.3 1.7 3.9 0.2

HERNANDO BEACH

JULY 2020

9Th

Time Height

5:57 AM 11:27 AM 5:04 PM 10F 12:00 AM 6:29 AM 12:14 PM 5:55 PM 11Sa 12:35 AM 7:02 AM 1:03 PM 6:48 PM 12Su 1:12 AM 7:37 AM 1:59 PM 7:50 PM 13M 1:53 AM 8:18 AM 3:03 PM 9:05 PM 14Tu 2:43 AM 9:04 AM 4:10 PM 10:27 PM 15W 3:40 AM 9:54 AM 5:13 PM 11:42 PM 16Th 4:39 AM 10:42 AM 6:10 PM

3.3 1.6 3.7 0.5 3.4 1.5 3.5 0.7 3.4 1.4 3.3 1.0 3.5 1.3 3.1 1.3 3.5 1.2 2.9 1.5 3.6 1.0 2.8 1.8 3.7 0.7 2.9 1.9 3.9 0.4

KINGS BAY

High Tide -20 min Low Tide 58 min

High Tide 2 hrs, 20 min Low Tide 3 hrs, 7 min

CRYSTAL RIVER

WITHLACOOCHEE ENT

High Tide 36 min Low Tide 1 hr, 30 min

High Tide 7 min Low Tide 55 min

CEDAR KEY

Time Height

17F

18Sa

19Su

20M

21Tu

22W

23Th

24F

12:48 AM 5:36 AM 11:30 AM 7:02 PM 1:44 AM 6:31 AM 12:16 PM 7:49 PM 2:32 AM 7:24 AM 1:03 PM 8:33 PM 3:15 AM 8:13 AM 1:50 PM 9:15 PM 3:54 AM 9:00 AM 2:37 PM 9:57 PM 4:33 AM 9:47 AM 3:25 PM 10:39 PM 5:09 AM 10:35 AM 4:17 PM 11:21 PM 5:44 AM 11:25 AM 5:12 PM

3.0 2.0 4.0 0.2 3.1 2.0 4.1 -0.1 3.2 2.0 4.3 -0.2 3.3 2.0 4.3 -0.3 3.4 1.9 4.4 -0.3 3.4 1.7 4.4 -0.2 3.5 1.5 4.3 0.0 3.5 1.3 4.1

COOKING DIRECTIONS

Time Height

25Sa 12:02 AM 6:19 AM 12:18 PM 6:12 PM 26Su 12:45 AM 6:56 AM 1:16 PM 7:16 PM 27M 1:29 AM 7:37 AM 2:23 PM 8:32 PM 28Tu 2:19 AM 8:25 AM 3:37 PM 10:02 PM 29W 3:17 AM 9:20 AM 4:51 PM 11:29 PM 30Th 4:21 AM 10:20 AM 6:00 PM 31F 12:45 AM 5:24 AM 11:18 AM 7:00 PM

0.3 3.6 1.2 3.9 0.6 3.7 1.0 3.6 1.0 3.8 0.8 3.2 1.4 3.9 0.6 3.0 1.8 4.0 0.4 3.0 2.0 4.1 0.2 3.1 2.1 4.2 0.0

HOMOSASSA RIVER ENT

HORSESHOE BEACH

SUWANNEE ENT

STEINHATCHEE RIVER ENT

High Tide 4 hr, 30 min Low Tide 5 hr, 41 min High Tide 6 min Low Tide 18 min

2 NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA/NATURE COAST

High Tide 12 min Low Tide 20 min

High Tide 2 min Low Tide 0 min

JULY 2020

For dressing, mix equal amounts mayonnaise and buttermilk. Mix in blue cheese. (The more the better!) Add in Worcestershire to taste, a few drops at a time. Place the greens, red cabbage, tomatoes, and eggs, on plate.

INGREDIENTS • Salad greens of your choice • Red cabbage shredded • Red tomatoes, grape, cherry, or my favorite, Campari • Hard boiled eggs quartered • Shrimp, peeled and deveined • Grouper cheeks or any firm fish cut into small pieces • Salt & Pepper • Butter or oil • Toasted almonds

Salt and pepper the shrimp and grouper. Heat butter or oil, or combination of the two in • Blue cheese crumbled a large skillet on medium • Mayonnaise until bubbling. Add grouper • Buttermilk to pan first and cook for a • Worcestershire Sauce couple of minutes on each side. Add shrimp and cook for a couple of minutes more until pink on each side. Place cooked shrimp and grouper on plate with vegetables. Serve with the delicious blue cheese dressing and sprinkle with toasted almonds. This beautiful salad is so colorful, easy and perfect for a summer gathering.

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W study I was Pool a Abrah severa the w the ki senten burne the ho fire, th wood Th may n Halilattem and th The re mostl Touri the fis I or po a sacr Pakis Nativ Florid sacred wage

FLORIDA WATERWAYS Sacred Ponds

he City of Sanliurfa in southeastern Turkey, is about fifty miles east of the ancient Euphrates River, one of the two rivers (the other being the Tigris) said to flow out of the Garden of Eden. See the map of Turkey with a red arrow pointing to the city. One of the most famous personages associated with Sanliurfa, was the Prophet Abraham, who may have been born there, and who lived there for a time, before taking his family to the Land of Canaan in the By Kevin McCarthy Middle East. When I visited the city in 2004, while studying Hittite sites in Turkey/Anatolia, I was intrigued at the story of Abraham’s Pool and its sacred fish. Legend has it that Abraham angered a local king, Nimrod, several thousand years ago, by objecting to the worship of idols, and also by courting the king’s daughter. In his anger, Nimrod sentenced Abraham to death by being burned alive on a large pyre. But when the holy Abraham was thrown into the fire, the flames turned into water, and the wooden logs became fish. The result to this day, is that people may not swim in the sacred pool at the Halil-ur-Rahman Mosque, where the attempted killing of Abraham took place, and the fish in the pool may not be caught. The result is, that the fish, which are mostly carp, have increased in numbers. Tourists like me are encouraged to feed the fish with feed that one can buy there. I know of a few other “sacred” ponds or pools, for example the Ganges River, a sacred river for Hindus in India and Pakistan. It is also possible that different Native American tribes in North-central Florida considered the Suwannee River sacred, which would not allow them to wage war near the river.

This is my 100th article for Coastal Angler Magazine. While the vast majority of the articles have been about the waterways of North Florida, I have occasionally written about other waterways that I think might interest the varied readership of this magazine. If anyone knows of other sacred waterways, please drop me a line at the pool in Turkey Abraham’s sacred address below. Here’s a shout-out of praise to the CAM editors I have worked with for these 100 articles: Lynn and Cary Crutchfield. May the next 100 articles I do for the magazine continue to show how much I value the waterways of this great state. Kevin McCarthy, the author of Antioch on the Orontes (2013 - (available at amazon.com), can be reached at ceyhankevin@gmail.com.

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ello from Crystal River; I hope everyone is enjoying the warm weather and sunshine. With the warm weather here and in full force, fishing is still great and is one of the best times of the year. During the summer, I fish early or fish late. There’s nothing like leaving the dock before dawn, getting your bait, and being at your first spot before sunrise. It’s amazing how alive everything is early. Like always, fish the tides. This time of the year, I’m targeting big reds and snook. For the redfish, I follow the tide East as it’s coming in. Like always, I’m looking for mullet and signs of life. If I’m using bait, I prefer pinfish, free-lined on a VMC 3/0 Sureset circle hook with 40 lb. leader. Another good tip for pinfish is to trim the tail, or even make cuts in them to slow them down. Redfish will find them. For the snook, it’s pretty much the same as looking for reds; they often hangout together. For the bait, I use a big pinfish and make sure it is a lively one. Snook like a fast bait. I usually target snook on the last part of the incoming tide. It’s always a good idea to remember where you see them, chances are, they will be right where you see them the next time, or close. Hope everyone is safe and enjoy some time on the water. Come on down to Crystal River and give me call to get on the water. Capt. James Kerr 352-362-6893 Citrusfishingchaters.com

eelin' hot, hot, hot, Forest Fishers? Well, you're not alone. Fish feel the same way. So while you're rigging up rods and prepping gear, think of all the different ways a fish can cool off during the summer months. In other words, imagine yourself living their life. "Beeee the Fish.” First off, overhanging trees are prime spots to find quality fish; works for me. Fishing through submerged tree canopies, prevents sunburn, and may even prevent suffering a heatstroke. That's why the massive tree-lined banks, narrow sections, and winding curves of the Ocklawaha River make it the topchoice for most anglers during summer. With endless "honey holes" along the river's 74-mile-long stretch, no matter what species you're after, you can find great fishing almost any day of the week. Panfish are the go-to for large families. With a few cane poles for the youngins, baited with breadballs or hotdog bits, you can skip along the river, stopping wherever the kids decide. Bluegill and other sunfish are so plentiful right now, due to their spawning, you'll at least get a few bites, no matter what spots you choose. Tip: Panfish love tiny creek mouths. Now, for the groups of anglers out to fill their coolers. Don't forget to grab some chicken livers and a can of live worms, because there's nothing much better than catfish nuggets, plus it only takes a few nice channel cats to put some serious meat on the table. Throw one or two lines into shallow water (live worms/bobber rig), and one or two out along the deeper drop-offs. If one method starts out-producing the other, adjust accordingly. Give each new spot 20 minutes max. If there's action nearby, you'll usually know right away. The boat basin area is popular right now, but personally I like finding fish that no one knows about. Tip: When passing a crowded spot, take mental notes of everything you see. Then apply those findings to strengthen your skills. The biggest bass are consistently

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JULY 2020

found close to deep water. Look for sharp bends, where the outside bank swings far out, away from the main flow, before curving back around to rejoin the river's natural path. The calm, swirling, cove area is perfect for big predator fish to ambush their prey (money hole). Throw a shiner, 6 to10 inches under a bobber, into the middle of the swirl, and relax. If your shiner starts swimming toward the bank or floating vegetation, keep letting line out and be ready. That usually means there's a bass underneath about to attack. Tip: Spillways, like Moss Bluff or Rodman Dam are also exceptional river bass spots. Use shad imitating style lures. There's so much to say about our prized river and it's fishing. What a gift. However, the article's over, so our lake anglers will have to wait until next month to hear about the perfect water levels, and GIANT BASS found everywhere! Until next month, remember, overcast is gold, and night is when the monsters come out. Go get 'em! John Freeze Kayak Fishing and Nature Tours TheWaterwayz@gmail.com 352-216-5798

NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA/NATURE COAST 5

SUWANNEE

ey everyone, the weather is heating up and so is the fishing! I've been beyond blessed with an amazing number of charters, and I can honestly say, it's been a great month. Reds are chewing strong on the flats and around shell beds. Trout are still pretty shallow, but look for them to start moving a bit deeper within the month. We have delicious tripletail floating all around, and even some cobia here and there. Let's talk deep water trout fishing. I get asked all the time, how we catch trout when the water is warm. Well, the answer is pretty simple, lose the cork. When trout move deeper due to warming water temps, I tend to ditch the popping cork and just tie a c & m jig head on, with a swim bait of choice. I run out to some of the closer grassy reefs (8 to 12 feet of water) and jig the swim bait up and down off the top of the grass. Sometimes a weedless set-up will help you from getting snagged as well.

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See, no real big secret to trout fishing in warmer water. Just find deeper water and lose the cork! Well guys and gals, until next month stay safe out there. Capt. Jason Clark In The Slot Fishing www.intheslotfishing.com Capt.jasonclark@gmail.com 352-639-3209 Check out our Title Sponsor for the Powerpole Pro Redfish Series! www.Globaloutdoors.com

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ST. AUGUSTINE

KEATON BEACH

Jud Alexander with a fine trout 5/21/20

Nathan Alexander with a flounder caught on Assassin’s Violet Moon 5 inch shad in 11 feet of water 5/17/20

rout, reds, Spanish, flounder, black sea bass, and cobia have all been biting since my last report, and June is all about rain, so far, but on two trips I managed to get in, delivered limits of trout with several fish over 20 inches thrown back. We had limits of red for two days in a row last week (today is June 12th) to go with our limits of trout. Live pinfish under Back Bay Thunders have been the key in depths from 3.5 feet to 5.5 feet. We have caught a bunch of trout on Assassin’s Green Moon and Violet Moon 5-inch shads, as well as a some flounder and BSB to boot. We actually caught trout to 21” inches, in 10.4’, 10.7’, and 11.2 feet of water in May? That, folks, is different... The Rock Grass is so thick and high, that most of our reds have been caught on live pinfish, but a few ate Cajun Flash jig spinners. Reds are on the move, as there is so little bait in shallow; they are here today and gone tomorrow. July will continue to produce trout on the offshore grass flats with live pinfish and pigfish which have spawned already, and some of their brood are large enough to fish with now. We caught a keeper cobia on

Cecil Stalnaker with his first ever keeper cobia 5/11/20

Nick Cook of Woodstock, Ga. with a five-pound Spanish 5/17/20

a 7-inch pigfish the end May, for a young man on his first-ever trip to the Gulf. Trout out in the 7 to 10-foot depths, will eat Assassin 5-inch shads, bounced on Assassin New Penny, Electric chicken and Chartreuse flash 1/4 oz. jigheads. Scallopers will be out there as of June 15th, and I love it, ‘cause they all go south and leave me alone. Meanwhile, Let's Go Fishing! Pat McGriff dba One More Cast guide service for 30 years! www.onemorecast.net onemorecast@gtcom.net 850.838.7541

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t’s summer time so--get to the beach! Right now, along our beaches, just outside the surf, there are millions of pogys (menhaden) getting chased, thrashed, and eaten by one of many predatory fish who roam our waters this time of year. Tarpon, kingfish, huge jacks and sharks are just some of the monster sea creatures waiting for you to hook for the fight of your life! A great all-around rig to catch just about all the aforementioned fish is to peg a live pogy on a medium to large circle hook, and cast just around the edges of the pods. You may or may not want to weight the bait down a bit, depending on current and wind conditions. Getting an early start will also increase your chances of hooking up along the beach, as the feeding frenzy tends to taper off as the sun gets higher in the sky. By now, tarpon should be thick along the beach, gorging themselves on the pogys, but another fun way to catch the silver king in our region is to hunt them behind the shrimp boats. Summer months bring the shrimp boats within a mile or so of the beach. Look for the boats that have birds hanging around, as those are the ones getting ready to, or just recently dumped their by-catch overboard. Approach the shrimp boats from behind, and be very aware of any rigging they may have in the water. It’s as simple as going slow and taking a look at what’s feeding on the by-catch. Net a few of the floating fish and use them for bait. When you see a tarpon gulping down by-catch, just toss your bait in the chum line and hold on. If you don’t see any tarpon, you’re sure to see a ton of big sharks, and they will definitely put a bend in the rod. Inshore, the best bite will be early

(from about 6 a.m. to 10 a.m.). Things tend to get a little too hot during the day, and the fish will sit lower in the water column. At first light, a top-water really can’t be beat this time of year, as redfish and trout will be willing to give serious chase and devour a Skitterwalk or TopDog. Once the sun gets up a bit, you’ll want to change to something sub-surface, like the Saltwater Assassin Lil Boss paddle tail. I like to rig them on a Saltwater Assassin 1/8 oz. or ¼ oz. jighead to help keep the bait down where the fish will be. A live mud minnow, or shrimp on a jighead will also work well when fishing deeper. The water will be at its murkiest over the next couple of months, and there are a few ways to get a fish’s attention, even on the “dirtiest” of days. A couple old faithful rigs are the popping cork and the gold spoon. I like to rig a popping cork with about 1 foot of leader under it with a soft plastic or live bait. This is many NE Florida anglers’ go-to rig for high tide summer fishing for redfish, trout, and flounder. The popping noise will attract fish from a good distance. The gold spoon is also great this time of year, as it puts off a lot of vibration that allows fish to find it even in the murkiest of waters. Somewhat of a more recent phenomenon is the spinner bait in saltwater. It has all the thump (and then some) of the spoon, but allows you to rig a soft plastic on it for double dose of fish catching genius… Be sure to check out my Daily Fishing Reports online @www.InshoreAdventures.com Capt. Tommy Derringer www.InshoreAdventures.net 904-377-3734

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to be a a lot...t 2020 a some o Key ha was no let me Ever h James? to han Chad. this, o the be custom fishing decide

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ell, if you were bored the last decade, 2020 is shaping up to be a year to remember, and for a lot...to forget. Before you forget 2020 all together, you should see some of the personal bests Cedar Key has to offer this last month. It was not a quantity fishing trip, but let me tell you about the quality. Ever heard of the slinger Jessie James? The only other man I knew to handle a fish that big was named Chad. (Quality folks.) While I write this, only the best, were caught by the best, and let me tell you, our customers are the best. I have been fishing this gulf my whole life, but decided over ten years ago, if I were

We will cook your catch. We serve fresh local Cedar Key oysters and clams. Try our delicious Gator. We get it directly from the Gator Man himself.

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going to go, or be broke I was going to have a great office view. I should have started serving you all 20 years ago. We get busy at the shop on holiday weekends, but if you can get us when we are slowed down, we love nothing more than to talk about the what, where, and when, the best we can. Get those kids outside and get them fishing. Capt. Daniel Cedar Key Paddling 352-665-1276 Dan_Gator@yahoo.com

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JULY 2020

NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA/NATURE COAST 11

INGLIS/YANKEETOWN

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uly is going to be HOT, HOT, HOT! Not only do I mean the temperature, but the fishing as well. The red snapper bite was hit and miss in June; I blame the tropical storm that passed us up. The good news is, the grouper, mangroves, and hog fish have stepped it up. You can literally chum up one area, and catch a huge variety this month. We have had success in water depths of 50 feet out to 70 feet, using the chum technique. If the trend continues this month for the red snapper, look much deeper, even out past 90 feet to locate these tricky beasts. Inshore trips will also fare well this type of year. Reds and snook will react well to a topwater bait early, but when the bite slows down, switch to a slower soft bait, shrimp, or cut mullet. Target the outer bars and spoil islands to locate the schools of fish. This warm water has brought back the sharks and tarpon. If these fish are your target species, you will be a very happy camper this month. Sharks will respond to any cut bait in the water. Look for tarpon using a live mullet, a few different presentations is the key to getting a bite. July will be hot, stay hydrated and keep those lines tight! Please reach out to me at capterichasty@gmail.com with any questions you may have. In addition, check out We Be Tailing for more tips and tricks at www.webetailing.com. Capt. Eric Hasty ShastyMcNasty Fishing LLC www.shastymcnastyfishing.com 352-220-3206

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t’s family fun this time of year, with the 2020 scallop season in full swing, grab your snorkeling gear and let’s hit the water. The vast array of grass flats from Crystal River to Homosassa is where you can count on gathering a bag full of these tasty bivalves. Good general starting locations are always the Gomez rocks area off Crystal River and the Bird Rack off Homosassa. If you’re new to the area, you can just look for the mass of boats and safely approach the crowd. Have your dive flag, carrying bags, masks, fins and know the regulations; you’ll be enjoying several days on and “in” the water. With the hot water, there’s hot red fishing. The large redfish schools are becoming more common and the muchanticipated redfish run is something around the major moon phases many of us look forward to. To the North, anchoring along the rocky spoil islands with a live pinfish will seldom get refused by the over-slot redfish running the banks. This area is also a hot spot to pick up a bonus snook, so it’s a good idea to be using at least 30 lb. fluorocarbon leader to prevent a cut off. To the South, the outer Keys will be holding the same size schooling redfish as well. The schools can be targeted early in the morning with gold spoons or top water plugs such as a Rapala skitter walk and MirrOlure top

SEAFOOD AT ITS BEST!

dog “as long as the floating grass isn’t too bad”. Use your push pole or trolling motor to locate the fish and keep in mind, these fish see a lot of pressure, so a stealthy approach is a must. For those who prefer to use bait, the old time Homosassa tradition with a fresh piece of cut mullet will keep the rod bent. It’s time to go deep for the trout and head West to target the grass patches. I suggest beginning in at least ten feet of water. A glow or motor oil colored D.O.A. shad tail jig rigged on a 1/8 oz. chartreuse jig head is a very simple and effective set-up. However, if the bite slows, scented baits such as a new penny gulp shrimp or MirrOlure Lil’ John in the bourbon color will help get an extra bite or two. Also, keep in mind, on the slick calm days, when there’s not a ripple on the water, a jig and clacking cork rig will call the trout off the bottom. Flounder, black sea bass, Spanish mackerel, cobia and the list goes on, are all possibilities on any given day. The best grouper bite is going to be offshore a bit, with around the 40-foot mark being a good starting point. Live palm-sized pin fish are always a good choice. Spend the time catching quality baits; it can make a huge difference in a successful day. The red snapper action has been very good as well, and starting your drops in 70 feet on out, should be productive. Also, this is the season we do have the occasional dolphin “mahi” school, cruise by the boat while offshore. Keep a jig, plug or free-line bait rod on standby for when the situation arises, and you’ll be the “talk”, back at the dock. As always, if you have any other questions about the area, feel free to contact me anytime. Good Fishing. Capt. Dan Clymer 352.418.2160 www.crystalriver-fishing.com

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JULY 2020

NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA/NATURE COAST 15

TALES FROM THE TUPPERWARE NAVY

elcome back Yak fans, Happy 4th of July. The hot Florida weather is upon us; I mean, when I say the flats are heating up, unfortunately, I'm talking water temperature. With that being said, the bite is still good, but planning is the key. On recent trips, I've found that you have to cover some area to dial in the fish. They are moving around, and it's like playing hide-n-seek, one day one creek, next day the flats, and so on. The best way to dial them in, is with jigs (gulp glow shrimp 3 or 4 inch are working well), my trusty Zara Spook or spoons. As you approach an area, work these around in an arc, and watch for a reaction; a good strike is nice, but sometimes it’s just a swirl. When you get that, stop and work that area for a while. This method has produced some beautiful reds of late, mainly on gulp, the spook, and cut bait has been very productive. On a recent trip, I hooked into three 27-inch reds, in less than 15 minutes, and that my friends, is what it’s all about! The best bite has definitely been on either side of the low tide, whether on the flats or in the creeks. I know the flats guys in my area are struggling to find any reds lately, and that's why I love a Kayak. iI's all about getting to where they are.

STA-SEA’S NATURE COAST ADVENTURES

The other fish that seems to be everywhere right now is sharks. Black tips and sharp nose are nailing anything natural I throw out there. I caught eight the other day, and I wasn't even targeting them. One was definitely targeting me though; a two-foot sharpie wanted to see how the trout on my stringer tasted, and I actually hit him on the head five times with my paddle, and he still wouldn't give up. The little bugger finally got part of one. He waited till I was landing a nice red, and pulled a sneak attack. A 19 inch trout became a 16 inch while my back was turned, but the red made up for it . This made the paddle back interesting, because as I went across the deeper water, all I kept thinking was, now I'm chumming, and where there are little sharks, there are BIG sharks. While I like to bring my catch in alive, on that day, I kept the stringer in my lap for a good part of the paddle. Let’s just say, I hate surprises, and believe me, a big bull shark can take the fun right out of your day. That's it for now; have a safe 4th, God bless America and see you next month. Bruce Butler | "Stumbling Gypsy" (352) 428-5347 Bruce@IndianBayOutfitters.com Web: www.IndianBayOutfitters.com

ooooo! This is the Florida I love. Sweltering hot days, and long cool dips in one of our breathtaking springs. There is nothing better. Fish get a little sluggish during the heat of summer, but they certainly still like a good meal. Fishing has been incredible to say the least. I’ve had a bunch of fantastic groups book with me lately. It’s almost like all the anger and hatred in the world right now has made people stop and smell the roses, so to speak. I have had the most thoughtful, generous, and downright funny people on my boat in the last few weeks. I've had a doctor, a police officer, a nurse, and a retired Army General, just to name a few. Most of these people have been on the front lines, and you'd never know it; no bitterness, no animosity-just happy to be fishing. We’ve seen so many schools of dolphin, a couple spotted sea rays, hundreds of turtles. and even about a 9or 10-foot tiger shark. The Nature Coast always impresses! We have had several firsts on my boat lately. One gentleman

caught his first fish ever, and it was a big beautiful snook. A lady caught a nurse shark on a shrimp, and fought it for 45 minutes before we safely released him. A young boy caught his first ever keepersize redfish, and so did his sister. Every day on the water is a blessing. We are surrounded by so much beauty. Be kind, and do your best to count your blessings every day. Tight lines! Captain Stacy Horak Cell 352-553-3604 Facebook: CaptainStacy Horak Instagram: captain_stacyhorakfishing www.fishingwithcaptainstacy.com

Dale Reed with a beautiful American red snapper caught at Cedar Key

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THE HISTORY AND BASICS OF

Sonar

By Ken Sturdivant

nglers of all skill levels spend lots of time and money on equipment. One of the least understood products and one of the most powerful tools in today’s modern fishing electronics is sonar. Sonar is an acronym for Sound Navigation Ranging. This is an electronic machine that sends sound waves called pings into the water and then receives these pings back. Understanding what this machine does and how to interpret the data is important so anglers can find fish, bait and structure. In 1906, an American made the very first two-dimensional world machine called sonar. It was invented to find icebergs. Then, in 1915, the Allies used sonar to find submarines during the First World War. So, sonar has been around a long time, and the basics have not changed much at all. In the 1950s, Carl and his son Darrell Lowrance came up with the “Little Green Box” and called it a Fish LO-K-TOR. This Little Green Box changed sport fishing forever. With this device, anglers learned how to find structure, bait and schools of their favorite fish. This technology remained unchanged for many years as anglers came to understand what the machines would reveal. With this machine, anglers learned to find and catch fish out in open water. Now, with the latest technology, anglers have access to three-dimensional technology called Side Scan and Down Scan. This technology can scan waters to 300 feet deep and from one side of the water column up to 600 feet on each side. With this new technology, anything in the water column can be easily spotted and marked with Global Positioning Systems. This Structure Scan technology can not only find fish, but search and rescue services use it to find cars, bodies, aircraft and much more with great accuracy. These high-tech units can be tuned to the angler’s requirements and conditions with very little effort. One of the most commonly neglected functions is the power or sensitivity setting. Set the sensitivity to AUTO and

G3 Sportsman 1810

G3 20 Bay series

the microprocessor will automatically adjust the sensitivity based on the depth of the water. Another common installation problem with these units is that the transducers are not in the right place. This part of the unit is sending and receiving echoes through the water. In order for it to work properly, it must be in direct contact with the water. This transducer must shoot straight down for it to read properly. Once these machines are tuned properly, they can show anglers structure and fish as never before. To get started, just hit “AUTO” for SENSITIVITY and DEPTH RANGE. See more from Ken Sturdivant at www.southernfishing.com.

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PALMS SNAPPER SLAPPER TOURNEY IS JULY 11

PHOTO COURTESY OF CAPT. CEFUS MCRAE

BEST COBIA FISHING MANTA RAY PRACTICES FOR CONSERVATION

ith NOAA’s announcement of an Atlantic red snapper season for July 10-12 and July, 17, the third-annual Palms Snapper Slapper Tournament is a go! This Jacksonville snapper tourney is a great way to make your long ride offshore worth it. The Snapper Slapper will give you the chance to come home with a lot more than just the one measly fish per person daily limit of red snapper. With a $250 entry fee and $50 TWT, there is a guaranteed cash payout to 10 places. There will also be prizes for Top Junior Angler, Top Lady Angler, Top Military Angler, Top First Responder and Mystery Weight. The captains’ meeting is scheduled for July 9 at 7 p.m. at Palms Fish Camp Restaurant, 6359 Heckscher Drive, Jacksonville. For more information or to register, call (904) 622-6519. Like and follow the Palms Snapper Slapper Fecebook page for updates, and see the website at palmsfishcamp.com.

Because cobia follow manta rays, the giant rays are occasionally accidentally hooked by anglers. NOAA conducted the following Q&A with well-known captains to develop some best practices for protecting manta rays while cobia fishing.

apt. Butch Constable has been fishing offshore in Jupiter, Fla. for more than 45 years. Capt. Ira Laks has been a charter captain and commercial fisherman out of Palm Beach, Jupiter and the Treasure Coast for more than 30 years. Both observe individual giant manta rays along the beaches of Florida.

Q: What are some of the best fishing techniques you use when fishing for cobia around manta rays? Capt. Constable: The best advice is to practice and really have good casting skills from behind and to the side of a manta ray. Do not cast in front of the manta ray. That way you can make a bad cast or two and reel in and recast without spooking the fish or hooking the ray. Capt. Laks: I like to come up slowly and from the behind on either side of the manta and keep as much distance as possible to make a good cast. My best approach is with the winds behind me and the angler. That allows for a longer cast and it’s less likely to spook the manta with the boat. It also allows for several attempts in order to make that perfect cast to catch the cobia and not hook the ray.

Safer for angler when unhooking, safer for reducing snagging the ray. Capt. Laks: I specialize in live bait fishing and use only single hooks. Treble hooks are not necessary when live bait fishing for cobia. A single hook reduces the chance of snagging a manta ray if a bad cast is made in front of the ray.

Q: If a manta ray becomes foul hooked or snagged, what can fishermen do to reduce injury and trailing line?

Capt. Constable: I recommend moving the boat in front of the ray, reeling up the line and trying to pull the lure gently from that direction. The hook will often pull out of the fish and not leave the lure or trailing line. If Q: Are there any specific tackle or lures you would not, cut the line as close to the ray as possible. recommend to reduce foul hooking manta rays, Capt. Laks: I like to position the boat and move carefully as close as but still are effective at catching cobia? possible to the manta. Then I cut the line so as to leave the minimum amount Capt. Constable: Single hooks! No reason to fish any sort of treble hook. of trailing line as possible.

6 NORTH FLORIDA

JULY 2020

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ig out your mask, fins and snorkel and load the kids in the boat. Bay scallop seasons are opening up on the Gulf Coast, and there’s no better excuse to get out on the water and kick around on the grass flats. Following up on a 2019 season that was disappointing in some areas in terms of scallop abundance, the outlook is good for 2020. Pre-season scouting is revealing a rebound in many scalloping hotspots. The season kicked off June 15 in the Fenholloway-Suwannee River Zone, which covers Dixie and most of Taylor counties. Early season scallopers enjoyed a first dive on the historically scallop-heavy flats around Steinhatchee and Keaton Beach. Most of the rest of the coast has a starting date of July 1, with the exception of Gulf County and Pasco County. Gulf County’s season is open from Aug. 16 – Sept. 24, and according to the FWC’s 2020 abundance surveys, the number of scallops on the flats there is off the charts. Pasco County’s short season runs July 17-26. Last year Pasco provided easy pickings, with scallops in abundance up shallow. Regular season limits are 2 gallons of whole bay scallops in the shell or 1 pint of bay scallop meat per person, with a maximum of 10 gallons of whole bay scallops in the shell or 1/2 gallon of bay scallop meat per vessel. Vessel limits do not allow an individual to exceed their personal bag limit. Scallops may be collected by hand or with a landing or dip net. New this season, direct and continuous transit of legally harvested bay scallops is now allowed through closed areas. Boaters may not stop their vessels in waters that are closed to harvest and must proceed directly to the dock or ramp to land scallops in a closed area.

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For complete bay scallop regulations, visit MyFWC.com/Marine and click on “Recreational Regulations” and “Bay Scallops” under the “Crabs, Shrimp and Shellfish” tab.

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ere’s your reminder: as of July 1, Florida anglers targeting reef fish species are required to register for the free State Reef Fish Survey. Registered anglers will be randomly selected to provide information on their catch by mail and may also be interviewed dockside. This new statewide program includes private anglers who fish in the Atlantic as well as the Gulf of Mexico. It is a follow-up to the Florida Wildlife Commission’s highly successful Gulf Reef Fish Survey, which was launched in 2015 as an improved method for gathering data on offshore species. Along with similar programs from other Gulf of Mexico states, the Gulf Reef Fish Survey was an important consideration for management of red snapper in the Gulf. Improved data collection has led to Gulf red snapper seasons that increased from three days in 2017 to a 45-day season in 2020. “This is a huge step forward for recreational data collection and will lead to continued management improvements of important federal species for Florida’s more than four million anglers,” said Kellie Ralston, with the American Sportfishing Association. “With significant gains in access for anglers in the Gulf, we look forward to seeing what can be accomplished in the Atlantic now that the survey has been expanded statewide.” For more information, go to myfwc.com.

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FLORIDA 13

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ANCHOR IN FLORIDA

apt. Phillip Ridge and Capt. Shaun Chute decided they couldn’t settle for a typical windlass on their vessels. The time-consuming task of dropping and retrieving anchors not only became tedious; it wasted valuable manpower and time. “I have had the unit on the bow of three different boats,” said Ridge, the founder of Blue Runner Charters. “I was one of the very first captains in the area to install one…[they are] the best by far.” Charter fishermen across the United States depend on the speed of E-Z Anchor Puller’s free-fall units, especially the Rebel series. In an interview with company founder George Towns, Ridge said the E-Z Anchor Puller also saved him a lot of work, employees and even helped him catch more fish. Captain Shaun Chute agreed. “The oldest [unit I own] is 20 years old,” the Six Chuter Charters’ captain said. “It still works perfectly. They just last [and] I use them every day on our charter boats…” While the Rebel series is most often used as a commercial fishing winch, E-Z Anchor Puller’s Rebel EZ-4 drum anchor winch is the perfect option for serious fishing and diving, too. After discovering E-Z Anchor Puller at the 2017 IBEX boat builder show, Shurhold CEO Barry Berhoff decided to install the Rebel EZ-4 on his 40’ SeaVee for boat outings and diving expeditions off the coast. “Once I got this in, I was really, really impressed because of the build quality. The other cool thing about this was that we were able to go to a much thinner anchor line,” Berhoff said. “Without a doubt, [this is] a spectacular, strong marine-grade piece of equipment.” One of the most popular options of the free-fall series, the EZ-4 spools out line as fast as gravity allows the anchor to fall after a quick, two-second touch of a button. Press the “power up” side to neatly and quickly retract the line back onto the drum. The Rebel series appeals to boat owners who need to anchor in deeper waters, too. The EZ-4 holds nearly 1,000 feet of ¼-inch spectra or dyeema line. The EZ-5 and EZ-6 hold more than 1,000 feet. For shallower depths, the Patriot direct drive series still delivers with quality stainless steel material and fast drop speed. With three sizes, the Patriot series is manufactured for boats 18 to 35 feet. With no drifting and no tangled lines, it gives you less to worry about on the water. The power-up, power-down direct drive button gives boaters more control over deployment and retrieval with an average of 100 feet-perminute. “No more strained arms and pulling up heavy anchors,” said Mike Chow of his experiences boating on his 257 Offshore Pilot. As an added bonus, all drum anchor winches are compatible with an E-Z Anchor Puller wireless long-range remote, which controls your unit from anywhere on the boat. The wireless remotes are available for the Hero and Patriot series, as well. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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From the outset, Blue Otter had a plan to produce the best sunglasses available. With stylish Italian frames crafted to provide comfort and perform under the most rugged conditions, their sunglasses are built for both the avid outdoorsman and the city slick’n bartender. The versatile Oconee model seamlessly blends sport and fashion. For day-to-day use, Oconees are as comfortable as they are good-looking. When it’s time to hit the water, the full-wrap frame protects your eyes through long days on the casting deck with high-tech, 100-percent polarized nylon lenses that provide excellent clarity and contrast as well as extreme durability.

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Built for fishing, Freeline shades feature a medium fit in a durable, lightweight frame with performance features like non-slip nose pads and temple padding to ensure comfort and fit. Scratch-resistant, AcuTint polarized lenses sharpen optics, reduce eye fatigue and penetrate the water’s surface allowing anglers to spot fish and structure. The AcuTint lens coloring system eliminates glare and enhances color contrast, without distorting natural colors, enhancing visual sharpness and comfort and maximizing the outdoors experience. Available in matte black frames with smoke or smoke-blue mirror lenses, and matte tortoise frames with amber lenses.

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Maui Jim’s Southern Cross sunglasses were designed to be timeless with a triple-injected nylon frame in three unique frame colors to match any style. Durable frames in a rectangular wrap shape are perfect for anglers, with a saddle style bridge and embedded rubber nosepads providing comfort during long days on the water. Maui Jim’s Polarized Plus2 lenses eliminate 99.9 percent of glare, block 100 percent of harmful UV and absorb harmful HEV. Their SuperThin Glass provides the crispest optics available and is thinner and lighter than standard glass, with the best scratch and solvent resistance. Certain styles are also available with prescription lenses.

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n June 15, The Bahamas began phase 1 of its Tourism Readiness and Recovery Plan by welcoming international boaters, yachters and private aviation across all the Islands of the Bahamas. Hotels were also allowed to open during phase 1 so that staff could return to work and put in place measures required to ensure readiness to accept guests at the onset of phase 2. Commercial airlines will also be allowed to bring in Bahamian citizens, legal residents, homeowners qualifying for economic permanent residency, or immediate family members or significant others of any of these groups. This is the first step in a phased reopening for the tourism sector that ensures health and safety protocols are being adhered to, and that the health sector remains well equipped and ready to respond if necessary. At presstime, the second phase was scheduled to commence July 1. The phased reopening is subject to change based on COVID-19 trends. For a list of procedures and protocols for boaters entering the Bahamas, see https://bahamasmarinas.com/procedures-and-protocols/.

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NATIONAL 17

BRING YOUR

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By Nick Carter PHOTO BY JACOB OTT

n the mountains of rural southeastern West Virginia, Second Creek has gained a reputation for large, sometimes difficult brown trout. It is a hatchery-supported, spring-fed tributary to the Greenbrier River that runs the Monroe/Greenbrier county line near the Virginia border. Second Creek is a long way from anywhere, with the nearest major population center being Roanoke, Va. some two hours away. But if you happen to be in the area, perhaps to fish for smallmouth on the Greenbrier or New rivers, Second Creek is definitely a worthwhile side

trip. It features a mile and a half of water regulated year-round for catch-and-release, fly fishing only. That’s not a whole lot of water to fish, and it does receive pressure, yet the allure of large cagey browns—as well as a few rainbows—rising to dry flies is enough to warrant a trip to this out-of-the-way gem south of Ronceverte. “That stream is a bug factory, and it’s different day to day and pool to pool,” said Jacob Ott, of Otters Guide Service. “If you’re looking to throw dry flies, and if the water conditions are fishable, something will be rising.”

Whether it’s terrestrials like Japanese beetles in summer or tiny midges in winter, bugs bring fish to the surface year-round in clear, mostly shallow water. Black stoneflies, blue-winged olives, sulphurs, March browns and others will be present in spatterings at different times of year. But the black caddis hatch is a highlight. From roughly April into July, Ott said mid-morning brings them on like clockwork. “When it hits, it’s on. It’s a full-bore, blizzard caddis hatch,” he explained. “Once it starts, it will happen at pretty much the same time every day until it ends.” These are small black caddis. Ott throws a simple size 16 or 18 CDC caddis pattern. He’ll hedge his bet by dropping a soft hackle or a Fox’s Pupae—or both—beneath the dry fly. “You’ve got to be on your A game. It’s smaller, clear water that gets pressure from some good anglers,” Ott warned. “By the end of the season, we’re fishing 7x and 8x tippet and long 12foot leaders. It’s technical fishing that requires accurate casts, good drifts and stealthy wading.” For such a technical stream, it’s worth getting the help of a professional for first-timers who hope to catch a few fish. Contact Otters Guide Service through their website ottersguide.com, call (304) 667-8337 or e-mail ottersguide@gmail. com. For maps, GPS coordinates and tactics for the Southeast’s best trout waters, get a copy of Nick Carter’s book “Flyfisher’s Guide to North Carolina & Georgia.” It’s available on Amazon, and autographed copies are available by emailing the author at nsc8957@gmail.com.

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ith its Optimus Electric Steering Actuator, Dometic has ushered in the next generation of all-electric power steering. The Optimus Electric Steering Actuator mounts directly on the outboard in place of the present hydraulic cylinder. It is the first complete bolton electronic steering for outboard engines, compatible for twin, triple and quad engines 150 horsepower and up. The powerful drive train, position sensor, brake and electronics are all embedded in the electric steering actuator. This means no Pump Control Module, no hydraulic pump, no hoses, hydraulic cylinders and fluid, and no more purging the system. The all electric steering actuator will be compatible with Optimus 360 Joystick Control as well as SeaStation (GPS Anchor) and SeaWays (built-in autopilot).

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NATIONAL 19

Surf Casting Tips & Techniques

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By Richard Matteson

asting lures on the beach is one the best ways to catch fish. You can catch monster snook, tarpon, kingfish, giant jacks, mackerel, pompano, bluefish, croaker, blue runners and ladyfish. Here are some suggestions to learn how to catch more fish. Gear: I like a 300 series spinning reel with an 8-foot rod. I use 10-pound braid and prefer white for its visibility. I tie in a 30-pound fluorocarbon leader with a double uni knot. A standard reel size for big fish is a 400 or 500 series reel and 20-pound braid. For tarpon, you’ll need at least 50-pound braid and a 60-pound leader. Go at the right time: Early morning is the best time to fish the beach. Baitfish are close to the shore and schooling near the surface at daybreak. The next best time to fish is in the evening about an hour before dark. Consider the tide: As long as the water is moving and there’s bait around, you’ll catch fish. Dead high or dead low are the two worst times to fish. Low tide pushes fish away from the trough, which is the deep cut near the shoreline. The trough is a fish highway and feeding area. Find the bait: When bait is present, so are the fish and birds. If there are no birds in the area, I go to another beach. Sometimes bait will be a hundred yards away, and you can walk the beach to find it. Consider the weather: If it’s a calm day with light wind or the wind is at your back, you can throw a light 1/8-ounce jig or a light spoon. Heavy winds and surf mean you’ll need some weight to cast far enough to be effective. Cast and Retrieve: You need to be in contact with the lure as soon as it hits the water. Before the lure hits the water, close the bail and retrieve any slack. When the fish hits, you need a good hook set and constant pressure. I use a number of retrieves. My favorite is to keep the jig or spoon near the surface with a steady retrieve. Keep your rod tip high and jiggle the lure to give it action. Another good retrieve is letting the lure hit the bottom then jerking it up toward the surface. Waves: Usually fish are behind a wave being pulled in the direction of the wave. Sometimes, they are inside the bottom of a wave or below the wave in the trough. Do not cast directly into a breaking wave. Not only do you lose contact with the lure, fish have a hard time finding the lure in the surf. When the lure gets caught in a wave, reel faster. Do not lose contact with it. Except for snook, or if the bait is on the beach, most fish will be caught on secondary waves beyond the first breakers. When a wave is approaching the lure from behind and pulls the lure, be sure to reel slower or stop reeling until you feel the wave pushing the lure.

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reat white sharks are fearsome predators, but what can you say about an animal that takes a white shark, breaks its pectoral girdle and then bites out its liver before discarding the rest of the carcass? According to Monga Bay News, that’s exactly what orcas were doing to great white and sevengill sharks in False Bay, South Africa before both shark species vacated the bay in 2019. Following the discovery of numerous washed-up shark carcasses with the same tell-tale injuries, many researchers are pointing to orcas as the reason white sharks are gone from an area once famed for cage-diving. Two orcas in particular, named Port and Starboard, arrived in the bay in 2015. Marine biologist Alison Kock was the first to describe this brutal and novel feeding technique. “Teeth marks clearly pointed to orcas as the predators,” wrote Monga Bay’s Heather Richardson. “Sharks’ livers are rich in fat and make up a third of their total weight, so it’s no surprise these incredibly intelligent predators target this nutritious organ.” Orca predation and long-line fishing that targets shark prey species are the two predominant theories being floated for the disappearance of white sharks from False Bay and the coast of Gansbaai. Scientists, however, are quick to point out that shark numbers have increased in other areas of the South African coast. Liver-eating killer whales in the neighborhood is a pretty good reason to move.

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NATIONAL 21

Clouser Fishing WITH THE MAN HIMSELF By Capt. Michael Mauri

ob Clouser is a legend in the fly fishing world. His Clouser Deep Minnow is one of the most versatile flies ever created, and his innovative fly designs have driven the evolution of the sport. I met Bob at the Somerset Fly Fishing Show over a decade ago. I remember how excited I was to meet the real Bob Clouser. From there, we saw each other every year at the shows, and I always enjoyed our chats. But we never got to fish together until recently, when Bob and his wife Jackie came to Stuart, Fla. to get in on our great Treasure Coast fishing. When Bob and Jackie arrived, the weather was nice and the fish were on fire, but it was a busy Sunday on the water. It was unusually busy for this time of year, but since 2020 is everything but normal, we had to make the best of it. I checked a few spots and found a good school of bait with some nice snook in it. It is still amazing to see 30 or 40 snook busting bait all at the same

time. Bob and Jackie were blown away, and you could tell they were excited! Since Bob was the oldest, he had the right-of-way to start, and it wasn’t hard to convince him to do so. I tied on a little white fly for him and his cast was dead on, naturally. Strip, strip and the first fish of the day was on. Seeing Bob’s excitement made my day. Within a few more casts, Bob pulled two more snook out of the same school before he turned the rod over to Jackie. It took her just a few casts to hook into a big snook, and the tug of war was on. She stood her ground until the leader broke. Sometimes you win. Sometimes you lose. This one really hurt. Jackie soldiered on, and it didn’t take long for her to hook up again. This one was smaller, but who cares! It was a great catch, anyway. Jackie caught a few more before we decided to run back to the dock. What a great day! I’m very excited the Clousers were impressed with our fishery in Stuart, and that they will be back regularly. I look forward to visits filled with new

stories. Bob has a deep history in fly fishing, and each tale always ends with his even deeper sense of humor. Having worked in the fly fishing industry for more than 22 years, I’ve met a lot of the legends. Bob is pretty much on top. It is not only his knowledge and how humble he is, Bob’s passion and excitement for trying something new is endless. Bob Clouser is the real deal. He loves our sport and has done so much for it. If you want to get an original Clouser, tied by him, go to www. clousersflyshop.com.

The Return of a

Capt. Michael Mauri can be reached at www.mauriflyfishing.com, michaelmauri@ mauriflyfishing.com or (772) 485-3321.

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NATIONAL 23

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tlantic striped bass are among the most heavily targeted recreational species in the United States. In 2017, nearly 18 million angler trips targeted or caught striped bass. Striped bass harvest, by weight, was the largest of all recreationally targeted species in the nation. In 2019, a new benchmark assessment found the stock to be overfished and experiencing overfishing. “Anglers place a relatively high value on catching trophy-sized stripers—fish that are about 34 inches or longer in total length,” said Andrew Carr-Harris, co-author of a January 2020 study with colleague Scott Steinback. “But trophysized stripers are almost exclusively part of the female spawning stock, and if too many are removed from the fishery the stock has trouble rebuilding.” High levels of removals were found to have contributed to a steady decline in the numbers of female spawners during the last decade. A mandated harvest reduction in 2015 from two fish to one fish, 28 inches or longer, did little to increase the female spawning stock. In 2017 the stock was at a 25-year low.

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Researchers wanted to better understand what policies might work to rebuild the fishery while minimizing adverse impacts to anglers. Carr-Harris and Steinback evaluated the immediate economic and biological impacts of different recreational Atlantic striped bass fishing policies. Results were published in Frontiers in Marine Science. The first step was to understand angler behavior. Data from a survey of 469 recreational anglers who fish coastal waters from Maine through Virginia were integrated into a model that simulated the effects of policy changes in trip expectations, fishing mortality and female spawning stock biomass. This approach examined the economic and biological consequences of full or partial harvest restrictions on trophy-sized striped bass. To date, these restrictions have not been considered in policymaking.

Dozens of Possible Options Evaluated “We found that there are many economically efficient management policies available if the primary objective is to control fishing mortality, but few policies if the primary objective is to protect female spawning stock biomass,” Steinback said. “Of the 36 possible policies we evaluated, only one achieved the intended reduction in fishing mortality while at the same time mitigating removals of the mature females.” That policy was taking one-fish per trip in the harvest slot of 28 to 36 inches. Implementing that policy achieved a significant reduction in both total and female spawning stock removals. This policy produced only a slight reduction in angler welfare, due to the relatively low rate at which striped bass larger than 36 inches are encountered. “Our findings provide empirical evidence supporting the recent decision made by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission to direct Atlantic coastal states to eliminate minimum size restrictions for striped bass in 2020 and instead impose a slot limit of 28 to 35 inches to reduce spawning stock mortality,” Carr-Harris said.

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Summertime Flounder

By Michael Okruhlik

argeting flounder is most likely not on your mind in July. This is typically a conversation for fall, when flat fish embark on their annual migration to open water to spawn. However, for those who love to bring a few of these tasty fish home from time to time, don’t count on the fall flounder run to stock your freezer. It’s worth knowing a new trick to satisfy your taste buds year-round. I primarily fish the Texas Gulf Coast, and while the exact timing of flounder movements will vary depending on where you fish, the patterns will be similar. Apply these tactics in your home waters, and I bet you’ll find a few flounder for the supper table. During spring, flounder slowly trickle back into the bays from their short stay in open water. This is more of a gradual entry than their exit, and it doesn’t draw the crowds of the fall migration. Although you can target spring fish with the same techniques as fall, the timing is more difficult to judge. I feel they spend some time running the beachfront as they find their way back into the passes, bays and finally into the marshes.

I have caught many more flounder on plastics, even when fishing side by side with others using shrimp. As a rule of thumb, I prefer white colored lures or something that imitates a mullet or shad. The areas I target are drain openings on an outgoing tide. These drains can be small; 1 to 2 feet of width is all it takes. The key is the size of the marsh behind it. As long as there is sufficient water to hold bait, it’s perfect. Flounder stage at the opening of large drains as well, but no drain is too small. The key to catching flounder is to keep the lure in constant contact with the bottom. Pointing the rod tip to the water, utilize a sweeping motion. Twitch the lure to kick up mud and sand, and then pause. Hold your horses when you feel that first tap from a flounder. Wait patiently for a second and usually a quick third tap before making a solid hookset! Unlike trout, flounder will hold onto a soft plastic. I feel they want to cripple their meal before they swallow it.

PHOTO COURTESY CAPT. TIM CUTTING

July through September is a great time to target flounder in the Texas back bays and marshes. Look for bait to determine the timing where you fish. These shallow estuaries will be teeming with juvenile shrimp, mullet, shad and a host of other flounder food sources. I like to use soft plastic swimbait/paddletail style lures. In my experience, flounder prefer fish over shrimp. That’s why I choose this style of lure.

Capt. Michael Okruhlik invented Knockin Tail Lures and Controlled Descent Lures. He owns www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.

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JULY 2020

NATIONAL 25

A WORLD RECORD ALMOST...

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n May 30, David Anderson set out alone at about 9 p.m. to fish from the bank at Tennessee’s Nickajack Lake. A few hours later, he really could’ve used some help when a 103-pound blue cat picked up his nightcrawler and began peeling line off the reel. With a medium-action rod and 12-pound monofilament, Anderson was in for the fight of a lifetime. It took about an hour for Anderson to get the fish shallow enough to wade in and net it. “I saw it roll, and I saw the tail fan,” reported Anderson to TWRA. “I was in disbelief. I put the net under the fish, and it dropped its head and bent the net. “It was like I was walking a dog, and then it would walk me!” As he retreated to shallower water, Anderson tried to scoop the fish with the bent net, which completely broke. “I was not going to let this fish get away after the fight, and I gathered both net and fish and took them to the bank,” said Anderson. Weighed on certified scales, the huge catfish came up a few pounds shy of the 112-pound state record, which was caught by Robert E. Lewis on the Cumberland River in 1998. Fisheries Biologist Mike Jolley said the fish was at least 25 years old.

26 NATIONAL

JULY 2020

fishing guide enjoying the rare opportunity to actually fish caught a new Oklahoma record paddlefish on May 23. The 143-pound behemoth is just a pound shy of the rod-and-reel world record. Jeremiah Mefford, who operates Reel Good Time Guide Service, was fishing with his family on Keystone Lake when he snagged the huge paddlefish. Weighed on certified scales, it broke the existing state record by 10.5 pounds. Mefford’s is a huge fish by any measure, but paddlefish get even larger. Back in February, an estimated 157-pounder was also caught from Keystone. That fish would have shattered the 144-pound world record caught in Kansas in 2004, but regulations called for the immediate release of the potential world record. The new state record was also released back into Keystone after being weighed on certified scales by an Oklahoma fisheries biologist. That means there are at least two future world records swimming in this Arkansas River impoundment outside of Tulsa. Mefford’s catch was 76 inches long with a girth of 44.5 inches. The previous state record weighed 132 pounds, 8 ounces. It was snagged about two years ago by Larry Dale Morphew out of the Arkansas River. Paddlefish are primitive fish with a fossil record that shows them sharing the world with dinosaurs some 75 million years ago. American paddlefish roam the Mississippi Basin and feed on zooplankton, so snagging them is the most effective method to catch them on rod and reel.

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Gimme Six Extended Protection promotion applies to new Suzuki Outboard Motors from 25 to 350 HP in inventory which are sold and delivered to buyer between 07/01/20 and 09/30/20 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. The Gimme Six Promotion is available for pleasure use only, and is not redeemable for cash. Instant Savings applies to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki Outboard Motors made between 07/01/20 and 09/30/20. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine.com. Instant Savings must be applied against the agreed-upon selling price of the outboard motor and reflected in the bill of sale. 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 creditworthiness. $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 07/01/20 and 09/30/20. “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. © 2020 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.

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6/9/2020 1:45:55 PM

Secrets of a Billionaire Revealed “Price is what you pay; value is what you get. Whether we’re talking about socks or stocks, I like buying quality merchandise when it is marked down.” — wisdom from the most successful investor of all time

e’re going to let you in on a secret. Billionaires have billions because they know value is not increased by an inflated price. They avoid big name markups, and aren’t swayed by flashy advertising. When you look on their wrist you’ll find a classic timepiece, not a cry for attention–– because they know true value comes from keeping more money in their pocket. We agree with this thinking wholeheartedly. And, so do our two-and-a-half million clients. It’s time you got in on the secret too. The Jet-Setter Chronograph can go up against the best chronographs in the market, deliver more accuracy and style than the “luxury” brands, and all for far, far less. $1,150 is what the Jet-Setter Chronograph would cost you with nothing more than a different name on the face. With over two million timepieces sold (and counting), we know a thing or two about creating watches people love. The Jet-Setter Chronograph gives you what you need to master time and keeps the superfluous stuff out of the equation. A classic in the looks department and a stainless steel power tool of construction, this is all the watch you need. And, then some. Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. Experience the Jet-Setter Chronograph for 30 days. If you’re not convinced you got excellence for less, send it back for a refund of the item price. Time is running out. Now CLIENTS LOVE that the secret’s out, we STAUER WATCHES… can’t guarantee this $39 chronograph will stick around long. Don’t overpay to be “The quality of their underwhelmed. Put a precision watches is equal to many chronograph on your wrist for that can go for ten times just $39 and laugh all the way the price or more.” to the bank. Call today! — Jeff from McKinney, TX

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JUNE 2020

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