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Throw Yourself a Bone
The very best hunting knives possess a perfect balance of form and function. They’re carefully constructed from fine materials, but also have that little something extra to connect the owner with nature. If you’re on the hunt for a knife that combines impeccable craftsmanship with a sense of wonder, the $79 Huntsman Blade is the trophy you’re looking for.
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The handle is made from genuine natural bone, and features decorative wood spacers and a hand-carved motif of two overlapping feathers— a reminder for you to respect and connect with the natural world.
This fusion of substance and style can garner a high price tag out in the marketplace. In fact, we found full tang, stainless steel blades with bone handles in excess of $2,000. Well, that won’t cut it around here. We have mastered the hunt for the best deal, and in turn pass the spoils on to our customers.
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• 12” overall length; 6 ¹⁄2” stainless steel full tang blade • Genuine bone handle with brass hand guard & bolsters • Includes genuine leather sheath
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Bill Dance Signature Lakes O er Impactful Improvements to Tennessee’s Fishing Waters
Frdom
A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE ‘MEDIA FISHING INDUSTRY’
By David Haggard & Heather Lose
LBy Ben Martin, Editor in Chief
et me !rst say that I am in no way a historian, nor has this material been researched to ensure its accuracy. is is simply my observations and my humble opinion of how and when the sport of !shing gained its foothold toward becoming America’s favorite pastime. Certainly, !shing had been a popular sport prior to its initial media welcoming in the 1960’s, but in my opinion its explosive growth can be traced to three events that catapulted it into its current National appeal.
Event #1 — ABC’s Wide World of Sports carries a marlin shing episode. Curt Goudy and Jim McKay hosted ABC’s Wide World of Sports and its popularity with a wide range of sports enthusiasts was viewed as a major success. However, by the sixth episode it was apparent that the show needed fresh material to keep their audience engaged so they put their cameras on a 62 . Hatteras to capture footage of a marlin catch and the world opened to the beautiful and extreme nature of o shore !shing. Viewers said to themselves, “I want to do that!”
Representatives from Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, and Tennessee State Parks celebrate the ribbon cutting of the Bill Dance Signature Lakes project at the Bassmaster Classic in Knoxville on March 25, along with the project’s namesake. Photo Courtesy of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development:
Event #2 — e Walker’s Cay Chronicles with Flip Pallot
Avid angler and creator of Hell’s Bay Ski s, Flip Pallot, developed a series of television shows called e Walker’s Cay Chronicles. In each episode Flip would narrate the pursuit of bill!shing in the Bahamas. His colorful description of “the shimmering waters” helped to romanticize the allure of sport!shing as something akin to an art form and, once again, people said to themselves, “I want to do that!”
Event #3 — Bill Dance begins lming his bass shing and tournament successes and becomes a national celebrity. And, one more time, people said to themselves, “I want to do that!”
e inertia that these three media events created caused an explosion in the !shing industry. e manufacturing and media industries jumped in to !ll the demand and meet the needs of a rapidly growing national pastime. Both entities have ever since been inextricably linked in a symbiotic relationship that has experienced continued rapid growth and a constantly growing demand for new products and new media outlets. And for that, Coastal Angler Magazine and e Angler Magazine salute ABC, Flip Pallot and Bill Dance, catalysts for making !shing America’s most popular pastime.
Check out some of the new products featured in this holiday edition of Coastal Angler Magazine and e Angler Magazine for gi ideas for your favorite angler.
Happy holidays!
HOLIDAY FOR ANGLERS GIFTS
Reel in the Perfect Holiday Gifts for Anglers and Outdoor Enthusiasts!
The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than by showing the anglers and outdoor enthusiasts in your life that you truly understand their passion? Finding the right gift can feel as tricky as reeling in a trophy fsh, but fear not! We’ve got some fantastic ideas that will have them casting their lines with glee.
As the holiday season rolls around, remember that the best gifts come from the heart. Whether it’s a high-tech fshing gadget, some fshing apparel or even a new boat or motor, these thoughtful presents are sure to delight the anglers and outdoor enthusiasts in your life. So, cast your line into the sea of gift ideas...you’re bound to reel in something special!
DRESSED TO KILL & FULLY LOADED
The quest to find the ultimate men’s watch has traditionally been a difficult one in the world of fashion. A timepiece with the perfect look and functionality has long been the goal of both watch designers and enthusiasts alike.
The Renegade Blue Chronograph Men’s Watch is the perfect combination of style and function. With a sleek design that features a bold blue dial, rose gold hands and hour markers, and a durable sports silicone band, this timepiece will instantly elevate any outfit.
The three sub-dials provide a precise timekeeping function. The sports silicone band is durable yet comfortable, providing a secure fit that won’t slide around on your wrist. The band is also easy to clean and maintain, making it perfect for everyday wear. The watch’s 30 Metre Water Resistance rating ensures that it has you covered whatever the occasion.
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At the amazingly low price of just $99 plus S&H, this watch is an absolute steal. Don’t miss out on the chance to own the Renegade Blue and Rose Gold Chronograph Men’s Watch - order yours today!
A FISHING CHARTER IS THE PERFECT HOLIDAY GIFT
If you’re searching for the ultimate holiday gi! for an angler, consider giving them a shing charter experience with a professional guide or charter captain. is gi! goes beyond typical shing gear; it’s an opportunity for adventure, skill-building, and unforgettable memories on the water.
A guided shing charter o ers the chance to sh in prime locations, o!en with access to secret spots that only locals know about. A professional guide or captain will lead the way, providing expert knowledge on local sh species, seasonal patterns, and specialized techniques. For anglers who love the thrill of landing big sh or are eager to explore new waters, this experience can be transformative.
Fishing charters also provide top-of-theline equipment and tackle, making it easy for anglers to focus on catching sh rather than gathering gear. Guides are well-versed in local regulations, making it a hassle-free experience without the worries of permits and licensing.
Whether the angler in your life is a seasoned pro or just starting out, a shing charter can be tailored to any skill level. It’s a personalized gi! that brings both relaxation and adventure, combining nature’s beauty with the excitement of a shing quest. is Christmas, give the gi! of a shing charter from one of our vetted Coastal Angler Magazine/ e Angler Magazine writers and you’ll be gi!ing an unforgettable experience every angler will cherish.
For more details, visit coastalanglermag. com or theanglermag.com and select the region where you’d like to sh, or you can easily nd a local captain’s contact info inside our print publication below their monthly shing forecast.
TRACY PATTERSON
PHOTOS COURTESY OF FIRED UP FISHING CHARTERS
ARE CALLING! THE
By Capt. Quinlyn Haddon
Ahhh December, the time of year for winter holidays, end of the year relaxation, winter nesting, comfort food, and family gatherings.
Unfortunately, you were well aware this was around the corner.
e Christmas music began beckoning to your wallets from every big box store in town, before the turkey le overs had even le your fridge. For no matter what this time of year means to you, there is no escaping the overbearing push for consumerism. Tis the season to spend your hard-earned money on disposable gi Trinkets and stu ers to $ll the house with “love”, only to be forgotten more quickly than they arrived. e gi s that have always been worth the most are the ones that create memories. e e orts to visit far away family and coupons for adventures to come may not be that exciting to unwrap, but the memories of them last a lifetime.
If you happen to make your way to the Florida Keys for the Christmas memories this December, our winter $shery has your back.
yellowtail and mangrove snapper are plentiful.
Wahoo and sail$sh are cruising the reef and can be reliably targeted without losing sight of land. is is always a nice feature for those who are not sure if they can handle the seas, as the ride back is reasonably noncommittal.
With windier days in December, it may seem o -putting to plan a $shing trip for risk of cancellations. e good news is that e Florida Keys boasts versatility between $shing the Atlantic waters, and the wind-sheltered waters of the Florida Bay.
e bayside waters are pretty much always shable, as far as wave heights are concerned, and it just so happens that they are in their peak time for productivity this time of year.
Our usual suspects are bigger, and we get lots of visitors running through. Snook, trout, mackerel, tripletail, and cobia are just a few of the species that make the bay more exciting during the winter.
If you missed your opportunity at cheaper Key’s accommodations before the rise of prices during Christmas break, keep your eye on the price drop a er the $rst week of January. e $shing forecast remains the same, but the tourism gouging will begin to fall back down.
With cooler water temperatures bringing our reef to life this month, you will have excellent opportunities to $ll your cooler nearshore, without having to worry about booking full days.
Grouper are still in season throughout this month, and the mutton,
If you don’t have plans to be in the Florida Keys over the winter break, Sweet E’nuf Charters sells printable gi certi$cates for you to gi this holiday season. We would be honored to be a part of making forever memories with you and your family.
Capt. Quinlyn Haddon guides with Sweet E’Nuf Charters based out of Marathon, Florida Keys. www.captainquinlyn.com; IG: @captainquinlyn
Choosing the Best Fillet Knife
Whether you’re a weekend hobbyist or a seasoned angler, a llet knife is a tool that no angler should be without. Selecting the right one requires some thought, though, as there are many factors to consider.
By Bill Chamberlain
e material of the blade is crucial for both durability and performance. Most llet knives are made from stainless steel or high-carbon steel. Stainless steel blades are resistant to corrosion and rust, which is particularly important in wet environments. ey’re easy to clean and maintain, making them a great choice for anglers who frequently sh in saltwater. High-carbon steel blades, on the other hand, tend to be sharper and hold their edge longer, but they are more prone to rust and require regular maintenance. For most anglers, stainless steel is a safe and reliable option, especially if they spend time shing in saltwater environments. However, if you are diligent with tool maintenance, a high-carbon steel blade could o er a superior cutting experience.
e $exibility of the blade is another key consideration when choosing a llet knife. Fillet knives are designed to be $exible, allowing the angler to easily maneuver the blade around bones and skin sh. e level of $exibility o en depends on the length of the blade, with shorter blades being more rigid and longer blades o ering more $ex.
For general use, a blade length of around
six to seven inches is perfect. is size is versatile enough to handle most sh species, from pan sh to larger catches. However, if you regularly go a er bigger sh, like salmon or grouper, consider a longer blade, around nine to ten inches, to make lleting those larger sh easier. Conversely, a four to ve inch blade is ideal for those who prefer shing for smaller species.
A llet knife’s handle is just as important as the blade, as comfort and grip can signi cantly a ect performance. When lleting sh, especially in wet and slippery conditions, a good grip is vital to prevent accidents and ensure precise cuts. Look for handles made from materials like rubber or thermoplastic, which provide a non-slip grip, even when wet. Ergonomically designed handles with nger grooves o er additional comfort and control.Wooden handles are another option, o ering a more classic aesthetic. However, they can be slippery when wet and require more maintenance to avoid damage from moisture.
Traditional manual llet knives are the standard choice for most anglers, o ering a combination of control and simplicity. However, electric llet knives have grown in popularity, especially for those who frequently catch larger quantities of sh. Electric llet knives make quick work of lleting, cutting through sh with ease and saving time. If you o en processes multiple sh at once, an electric model could be a great
choice. at said, electric knives tend to be bulkier and more expensive, so for someone who enjoys the art of lleting by hand or who shes occasionally, a high-quality manual knife is likely a better t.
Consider whether the knife comes with a sheath or case for safe storage and transport. Anglers are o en on the move, and a protective sheath helps keep the knife safe and sharp while preventing accidents. Some llet knives also come with additional accessories, such as sharpeners or extra blades, which can be a nice added touch.
By focusing on the blade material, length, $exibility, handle comfort, and portability, you can nd a knife that enhances their shing experience and becomes a cherished tool for years to come.
Fishing Report & Forecast Fernandina / Amelia Island
By Terry D. Lacoss
Some of December’s very best fishing is close to holm and maybe right under your boat dock!
A variety of coastal game fish will be active during the month of December including the ever-popular red drum. Barbing a ¼ ounce led head with a live bullhead minnow, shrimp, or finger mullet is a deadly winter boat dock fishing tactic. Cast the led head/bait combo right on the shallow side of the boat dock and retrieve slowly out into deep water.
Winter boat docks are particularly productive when located right at a deep channel with numerous oysterbars. Also expect to catch seatrout, flounder, puppy drum and more. Look for all of the falling tide to produce the best action as long as thereis moving water.
Slow trolling a ¼ ounce led head jig in the white color pattern in the intra Coastal waterway is also a productive December fishing pattern. Expect to catch a lot of colorful spotted sea trout with the occasional hard fighting redfish.
When you hook a backwater specie slow trolling with your boat’s electric trolling motor, put your trolling motor into the “Anchor” mode
and make repeated casts to where your fish was hooked slow trolling. Back country fishermen will also be targeting flounder, blues, black drum, and small sharks during the month of December as well. Fishing with ultra fresh shrimp, cut bait, or a piece of blue crab right on the bottom with a “Fish Finder” setup is key. Look for the best action while fishing the incoming tide close to deep-water oyster bars, under a boat dock, or close to a point of marsh grass that extends out over an oyster bar, or close to a creek mouth is key.
Casting a minnow type, suspending plug like the chartreuse and white pattern Mir-O-Lure “27-MR” close to and over a rough oyster bottom that leads to a deep channel is a highly successful winter sea trout pattern. Look for some of the best sea trout action to come at the footsteps of historic town of Fernandina Beach where boat docks extend out into a deep nearby shipping channel.
Black drum fishing action heats up during the month of December in the deep waters of Cumberland Sound, both the St. Mary’s and Nassau Inlets. Fishing on the bottom with fresh shrimp, or piece of blue crab is key. Look for the last few hours of the flooding tide to offer the best fishing action.
Excellent eating whiting will be running along the beaches of Amelia Island with the best surf fishing action coming at the southern portion of this beautiful island, beginning at “American Beach”. Once again fishing with fresh shrimp on a double hook leader and a four-ounce bank weight just behind the breaking surf will produce the best winter surf fishing action.
Largemouth bass will be active during the month of December, particularly during stable weather conditions when the water temperatures are rising. Bass fishermen will need to be extra patient while slowing down their lure retrieve, and possibly fishing with smaller lures. Also, concentrating on areas of the bass waters where there is a shallow ambush point that leads to a deep-water escape.
Without a doubt some of the best winter bass fishing in some of the small lakes and ponds located in and around Fernandina Beach/Amelia Island will come during the afternoon hours when the water temperature is the warmest. While the last few days of a warm front will frequently produce the best bass fishing action, avoid casting for bass during the last few days of a cold front.
Offshore fishermen will be targeting excellent eating black sea bass, grouper, flounder and more at close to shore fish havens. High speed trolling with plastics at the continental shelf harbors excellent wahoo action and more!.
www.myfwc.com. For fishing and sailing charters visit www.ameliaangler.com 904-261-2870. or visit www.ameliaangler.com
Fishing Report & Forecast St. Augustine Inshore
By Capt. Tommy Derringer
This time of year, the early bird doesn’t always get the worm... The winter months are some of favorite times of year to fish (especially for redfish) and being able to sleep in a little longer than usual can be nice. There’s no need to get on the water super early this month as the fish will be chewing better after the sun gets up and the flats start to warm up a bit. A mid-day low tide this time of year is a Northeast Florida angler’s dream. Redfish will start to get schooled up and low tide is the easiest time to find them. Look for flats with dark colored bottoms and creeks with an abundance of oyster bars. Typically, the water is starting to clear up right now so you’ll be able to see the fish, but you can also locate them by looking for “muds” or small fleeing baitfish and shrimp. Don’t worry if you don’t own a super shallow water skiff, these fish are still accessible. Most decent size creeks in the area have small “flats” on their banks on extreme winter low tides. Slowly use the trolling motor to work as far back as possible in the creeks while eyeing the banks for cruising reds.
One very important piece of equipment for this time of year and sight-fishing in general is a good pair of polarized sunglasses. I prefer a pair of Bajio Sunglasses with a green mirror colored lens for sunny days or a rose mirror for lower light/cloudy days. You’ll be surprised how much of difference a good lens can make. The quicker you can spot the fish the easier it is to catch ‘em. My favorite baits this month are small soft plastics like a Saltwater Assassin paddle tail or a live shrimp both paired with an 1/8-ounce Saltwater Assassin jighead. The reason I prefer the 1/8 ounce or even a 1/16-ounce jig is they make less splash when casted and with the clear water we have right now our reds can get a little spooky. This is also a great time of year to bust out the long (fly) rod. Many a redfish and even a few sheepshead will fall to small shrimp
and crab flies. Being able to see the fish before you cast makes fly fishing that much more exciting and rewarding.
Black drum should be a good bet this month in the deeper creek and ICW holes. Fresh dead shrimp or sometimes even better, a fiddler crab fished on the bottom will do the trick. Black drum have smallish mouths and tend to be subtle biters so make sure and wait until you feel the fish swimming away before setting the hook. Speaking of fiddler crabs and light biters, the sheepshead bite should continue to be good through the next few months. Target area bridges and pilings with fiddlers, oyster crabs, or small shrimp. If you’re feeling a little sportier look for sheepies on the flats feeding on oyster bars. It seems like sometimes every oyster bar you pass by this time of year will have a few munching away just waiting to be caught. I Hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas!.
Capt. Tommy Derringer 904-377-3734 • www.InshoreAdventures.net
thoose From.
Fishing Report Pier and Surf
By: Noel Kuhn
December is one of the big two transition months. The other is in the spring. Our fishing will be great until the water temperature stays below 60 degrees. Most on the Pompano will be gone at 63 except for the biggest ones. The Whiting will be chewing until we hit that 60 degree mark. My favorite app for deciding where to fish is Sea Surface Temperature by Rutgers university. The satellite flies over our coast several times a day. Driving just one hour south can make a huge difference in catching and fishing.
The big Redfish left the inlets last month after breeding. For surf fishermen, this is our chance to catch a big bruiser, before they head offshore when the water gets too cold. My go to bait for the past 20 years is a half of a blue crab fished on a fish finder rig. I tie them with 80 pound mono tipped with a 5/0 to 7/0 circle hook. When you spike up, set your drag light. My personal best from the surf was 42”! I’ve seen bigger caught right beside me. One good thing is that the beach will not be crowded in this cool/cold weather. My best day ever for big Reds was mid December. The air temp at day break was 35 but the water temp was 65. See the picture from that awesome day! We had six big oversized by 9AM.
Since sand fleas are almost impossible to find this time of year, my two favorite baits for Pompano and Whiting are fresh clams and Blue Crabs. I buy these from the seafood market the day before and keep
clams in the fridge and the crabs cool in the garage. Two other great baits are the new Fishbite flavors of Ghost Shrimp and Electric Chicken Sand Flea!
If it is really cold, I may be bundled up in duck hunting gear, see picture. If you see me, come down and say hello. Tight lines and Merry Christmas!
Fishing Report & Forecast St. Augustine Offshore
By Capt. Robert Johnson
The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year
I admit, I love Christmas time! Lights, presents, family, faith, and cookies - Christmas has it all including fabulous fishing!
December brings in great fishing for Sailfish, Blackfin Tuna, Wahoo, and the occasional Mahi moving south to escape the cold. Look for great action from 145 to 300ft. I prefer medium ballyhoo rigged on
100# monofilament leader for most of my spread. It also pays to pull something down deep on wire for Wahoo. Most of our riggs are naked or a very small skirt like a sea witch. Less is best and will increase your hookup ratio.
If bottom fishing is your game, there are still plenty of species open and available. Cobia and African Pompano will be hanging on the larger wrecks and ledges and are suckers for a jig worked vertically through the water column. If you’re looking for Snapper there will be Muttons, Vermilions, and Mangroves available especially in the deeper water at 145-160ft - cut bait or dead sardines rigged on longer 80# monofilament. I like around 10ft with an 8oz lead rigged Carolina style.
Closer to home there is an abundance of King Mackerel in 100’. Using the tried-and-true planer and spoon combo is my rig of choice. Use 20’ of mono, a barrel swivel, and another 20’ of mono with a spoon attached will help eliminate line twists. A #3 planer and blue and white drone spoon should get you plenty of bites. Look for schools of bait in the 100 –110’ range. This is a GREAT way to introduce kids to fishing.
If you have someone who’s not on the naughty list and difficult to shop for, a Jodie Lynn Charters fishing Gift Certificate is the perfect gift for that someone special!
Tight Lines & Merry Christmas!.
pul nake yo op th verticall b deep long sty Usin Us attache dron th – 110’ t g Johnso
Captain Robert Johnson
(904)540-2628
Jodielynncharters.com
Jlfishing@bellsouth.net
Jodielynncharters.co Jlfishing@bellsouth.ne
TIDE CHART - December
Tue 03:09 AM 5.20 H 09:25 AM 0.46 L 03:39 PM 4.84 H 09:43 PM 0.03 L 11 Wed 04:11 AM 5.47 H 10:29 AM 0.22 L 04:42 PM 4.78 H 10:39 PM -0.20 L
12 Thu 05:10 AM 5.73 H 11:29 AM -0.05 L 05:40 PM 4.77 H 11:34 PM -0.43 L 13 Fri 06:05 AM 5.93 H 12:25 PM -0.30 L 06:35 PM
L
19 Thu 04:36 AM -0.07 L 11:02 AM 5.19 H 05:15 PM 0.25 L 11:26 PM 4.42 H
20 Fri 05:29 AM 0.31 L 11:48 AM 4.90 H 06:04 PM 0.46 L
Sat 12:16
22 Sun 01:07 AM 4.30 H 07:21 AM 0.95 L 01:22 PM 4.34 H Sun 07:41 PM 0.74 L
23 Mon 02:01 AM 4.30 H 08:18 AM 1.12 L 02:14 PM 4.11 H 08:29 PM 0.81 L
24 Tue 02:57 AM 4.34 H 09:14 AM 1.18 L 03:10 PM 3.94 H 09:18 PM 0.82 L
25 Wed 03:52 AM 4.43 H 10:09 AM 1.10 L 04:07 PM 3.86 H 10:07 PM 0.77 L
26 Thu 04:44 AM 4.55 H 11:02 AM 0.93 L 05:01 PM 3.86 H 10:56 PM 0.64 L
27 Fri 05:32 AM 4.70 H 11:51 AM 0.69 L 05:50 PM 3.92 H 11:43 PM 0.43 L
28 Sat 06:17 AM 4.86 H 12:35
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By Rod Wilson
Choosing the Perfect Fishing Tools:
PLIERS AND SCISSORS AS A CHRISTMAS GIFT
Finding the ideal Christmas gi for an angler can be challenging. While rods, reels, and lures are popular options, tools like shing pliers and scissors are o en overlooked, yet essential. ese small tools can make a signi cant impact on an angler’s experience, ensuring smoother, more e$cient shing trips.
Pliers and scissors might seem like minor accessories, but they play critical roles. Pliers are used for removing hooks, crimping, cutting lines, and tuning lures. Scissors are vital for trimming shing lines, especially tough braided ones. High-quality pliers and scissors save time and e ort, allowing anglers to focus on shing.
When choosing shing tools, the material is crucial. Pliers and scissors must withstand water exposure, especially saltwater, which is highly corrosive. Stainless steel is common due to its rust resistance, but premium options like coated aluminum or titanium o er lighter and corrosionresistant alternatives. If the angler shes in saltwater, corrosion-resistant materials like anodized aluminum or titanium are ideal. Freshwater anglers can opt for stainless steel with a non-corrosive coating.
Comfort is another important factor. Fishing can be tiring, and uncomfortable tools add to the fatigue. Look for ergonomic designs with non-slip grips made from rubber or silicone for added comfort and secure handling, even in wet conditions.
Versatility in shing pliers is also worth considering. Many pliers today are multi-functional, incorporating features like line cutters, split ring openers, crimpers, and wire cutters. Multi-tool pliers reduce the number of tools an angler needs to carry. Scissors, too, vary in design, but their ability to cut through di erent line types, including mono lament, uorocarbon, and braided lines, is essential. Some even come with micro-serrated blades for enhanced cutting precision.
Portability is key for anglers who prefer to travel light. Fishing pliers and scissors should be compact yet functional. Many pliers come with a sheath and lanyard, making them easy to carry and preventing accidental loss in the water. For kayak or shore shing, compact and lightweight tools are best, while boat anglers can handle larger, feature-rich models without storage concerns.
Price is another factor to consider. While budget options are available, investing in high-quality pliers and scissors ensures longevity and better performance. Good pliers range from $20 to $50, while scissors range from $10 to $30. For dedicated anglers, it’s worth paying a bit more for durable, high-performing tools.
Choosing the right shing tools like pliers and scissors can make a thoughtful and practical Christmas gi . By considering material, comfort, versatility, size, and price, you can nd a gi that enhances their shing experience. Give the gi of convenience and quality this Christmas with top-notch shing tools any angler will appreciate.
THE BEAN POLE: AMiniRodforBigAdventures
Who doesn’t love a good challenge? !at’s what draws so many anglers to light tackle for catching big sh. Mini rod shing takes it up a notch, turning the thrill of landing a monster into an even more rewarding experience. Mini-rod shing is all about having fun and enjoying the thrill of the catch!
At just 33 inches total, the Bean Pole isn’t just a mini in size, it’s the real deal in the world of shing. With a new edition released every year with cool colors and features, this little rod combines style, functionality, and fun all in one sleek package.
!e beauty of the Bean Pole is in its convenience. Slip it into your car, backpack, or even your kayak, and you’re ready to chase sh wherever the road takes you. Perfect for spontaneous road trips or shing in those hard-to-reach spots, this mini rod is your trusty sidekick for any adventure. While there are other “mini” rods on the market, ones over 36 inches fall more into the slow-pitch jigging category and are not considered real mini rods. !e Bean Pole, on the other hand, is a true mini rod at 33 inches. It’s designed for nimble casting and quick action, making it perfect for those who want a genuine mini experience without the extra length. Made from pure carbon ber, the Bean Pole is as lightweight as it is strong.
Don’t let its size fool you; this rod packs a punch! It’s designed to tackle everything from giant bull sharks to he y goliath groupers and, yes, it’s just as e ective at reeling in smaller species like snook and yellowtail snapper, giving it a ton of versatility!
e Bean Pole retails for $65 and is available at beansport shing.com.
SUZUKI MARINE’S DF2.5: Small in size but big in features. Weighing just 30 pounds, the portable and versatile DF 2.5HP outboard motor is the lightest Suzuki Marine USA 4-stroke motor ever built. This smooth, quiet engine is water-cooled for increased dependability, features a digital CDI, and its anti corrosion system ensures the aluminum propeller stays durable in marine conditions.
TIS THE SEASON TO BE JOLLY… FA LA LA LA LA
Christmas week, in my opinion, is the peak of bottom shing season, and there are plenty of reasons why. One of the biggest factors is the congregation of bait schools, like cigar minnows and sardines, which are some of the best baits available. Other reasons include the spawning aggregations and the cooler water temperatures. Speaking of bait, grouper (and American red snapper) can’t resist a few others if presented right: pin sh, sailor’s choice, and even small beeliners and other little snappers. !ese baits are so tempting because larger sh like grouper and snapper see them as egg-eaters. !ey devour them not only as a food source but also to protect their future o spring from these egg thieves. If you present these baits correctly—and avoid using bulky tackle— they’re simply too enticing to resist.
intelligent. Not all grouper species are equal in terms of smarts: red grouper are pretty naive, scamps are sharper, and gags are the brightest. !ey don’t become males, or black bellies, by being careless. Like other animals, sh learn to avoid obvious traps. !ey recognize mono, threeway swivels, heavy bank sinkers clanking on the bottom, and so on. It’s time to step up your game and target their instincts.
Personally, I use my weight as a “decoy,” making it resemble a crab or squid. !is setup involves a 4-foot piece of oro, a small 130-pound Spro swivel, and 50-pound braided line. I also color the rst 5 or 6 feet of high-vis (yellow) braid red with a Sharpie. (See my video on YouTube for a demo.) All these details matter for the overall presentation. !e
Let’s talk tackle. Forget mono lament altogether! I’ve spent a lot of time observing my tackle underwater, and mono is much more visible than uorocarbon. Compared to mono, oro is nearly invisible, which makes a di erence. Next, think carefully about the weight and terminal tackle you use to get bait to the bottom. While three-way rigs were a classic for years and will still catch younger (female) grouper, it’s a di erent story when they grow up. Once female grouper mature, they undergo a transformation and become males. When these gag grouper turn male, they also reach a size where we call them “black bellies.” !ese male grouper—especially black bellies—are
“Decoy Jig” is like psychological warfare; it taps into the sh’s hardwired drive to attack struggling or injured prey. !e Crab Decoy Jig, for example, looks like a crab holding on to a struggling snapper. To a wary grouper or big snapper, that’s an irresistible “Happy Meal.” I came up with the Crab Decoy Jig a er gutting thousands of grouper and realizing that their diet mostly consists of small red and reddish-brown crabs, tiny snappers, cigar minnows and sardines.
!e gag grouper and American red snapper populations are stronger than they’ve been in years—just ask any diver! But to catch them consistently, you need to improve your presentation. If you’re not catching gags and scamps with your old “chicken rig,” it doesn’t mean there aren’t any grouper around. !ey’re just not falling for poorly presented bait.
For a closer look at my setup, visit my YouTube channel.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
See more from Tim Barefoot at www.barefootcatsandtackle.com and on YouTube @timbarefoot5698.
Tim Barefoot
ANGLERS LAND NEW IGFA WORLD RECORDS
The International Game Fish Association (IGFA) tracks record sh catches around the globe. Here are a few highlights from their newly approved world records.
To see all newly approved IGFA world records go to igfa.org.
Shapiro’s Red Drum
On July 8, 2024, Shawn Shapiro was shing the Chesapeake Bay out of Norfolk, VA, when he landed this massive 45.7-inch red drum. Shawn was shing with a live croaker aboard his father’s boat “Sea Mes” when this record red sh struck. With this sh Shawn has set the IGFA All-Tackle Length Junior World Record for the species. A er recording the length and snapping a few photos, he was able to release the sh safely.
Martin’s
Brown Trout
On May 17, 2024, Vicki Martin landed a stunning 4-pound brown trout while shing the White River in Arkansas. !is catch has earned Vicki the IGFA Women’s 2 lb. Line Class World Record for the species. With the help of guide Craig Yowell, Vicki landed the record trout a er a six-minute ght.
Fox’s Northern Pike
On June 29, 2024, Peter Fox was shing out of Brabant Lodge in Northwest Territories, Canada when he landed this impressive northern pike. Peter was using a prop y when the pike struck and was able to boat the sh a er an intense ght. !e sh measured 43.3 inches, earning Peter the IGFA All-Tackle Length Fly World Record for the species.
Gredysa’s Summer Flounder
On May 12, 2024, Jan Gredysa was Shinnecock, NY, when he landed this 22.4-inch summer ounder. With this has set the IGFA All-Tackle Length Junior World Record for the species. Jan was casting a Fin-S lure when this record ounder struck and was able to land the sh a minute ght.
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