navigating peace of mind
THE IMPORTANCE OF BOAT INSURANCE
Embarking on the open water is an exhilarating experience, flled with the promise of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a weekend cruiser, safeguarding your vessel with proper insurance is not just a choice—it’s a necessity. Explore the reasons why every boat owner should prioritize boat insurance for a worry-free voyage.
Unpredictable waters
The open water can be unpredictable, with unexpected storms, collisions, or other potential accidents. Boat insurance can give you fnancial protection if there is damage to your vessel, providing coverage for repairs or replacement.
Damage and injury
Accidents on the water can result in damage to other boats, docks, or even injuries to passengers. Boat insurance offers liability coverage, which can pay for damages or injuries you’re liable for while boating, up to specifed limits, and lawsuit costs if you’re sued. This includes damage you cause to another watercraft or if someone on or near your boat is injured and you’re found to be legally responsible.
Theft and vandalism
Unfortunately, boat theft and vandalism are realities that boat owners face. Boat insurance has comprehensive and collision coverage that can protect you against events outside of your control, including theft and vandalism.
Incurred medical payments
Accidents on the water may lead to injuries for you or your passengers. Boat insurance offers a range of optional medical payments coverage limits, helping to cover medical expenses if you are in an accident or someone is hurt on your boat, regardless of fault.
Peace of mind for fnancing
If you fnanced the purchase of your boat, most lenders require insurance coverage to protect their investment. Having boat insurance not only fulflls these requirements but also gives you peace of mind knowing that your fnancial interests are safeguarded.
Navigational fexibility
Some water municipalities and marinas may require proof of insurance for docking or accessing certain areas. Boat insurance allows you the fexibility to explore different destinations without worrying about entry restrictions.
Emergency towing and assistance
Progressive boat insurance can include optional Sign & Glide® On-Water Towing coverage. If your boat is disabled or breaks down on the water, Sign & Glide® pays for on-water towing, jump starts, soft un-groundings, and fuel delivery.
Wreckage removal
If your boat sinks, Progressive boat insurance will cover the cost of removing your boat from the water (if removal is legally required).
Investing in boat insurance is not just about protecting a valuable asset; it’s about safeguarding the memories, experiences, and joy that come with your on-water adventures. Don’t let unforeseen circumstances disrupt your journey—navigate with confdence, knowing that Progressive boat insurance has you covered. Ensure a smooth and worry-free voyage, because when it comes to your boat, peace of mind is the ultimate luxury.
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SIGHT FISHING FOR SUCCESS
The rewards of a catch made while sight fshing go well beyond the satisfaction of landing the fsh. Take every opportunity to observe fsh in their natural habitat. To maximize success, an angler should take in as much information while on the water as possible.
By Capt. John Luck
Regardless of your target species, tackle of choice, or home waters, actually seeing the fsh is not only highly enjoyable but one of the best learning experiences an angler can have. It leads to a detailed understanding of fsh behavior.
Te sight fshing angler gets to see fsh react to everything around them, from the lure, bait, or fy presented to them, to the actual structure of the waterbody they live in. Recognizing their cues of interest or disinterest becomes applicable for species in both fresh and saltwater. Obviously remaining as quiet as possible, making sure that you have a good vantage point and during daylight hours having a good pair of sunglasses are all vital to your success. My personal favorite is the Bajio Tech Angler Collection due to their ultra clear polarized lens.
Sight fshing enables an angler to have more control over the outcome and allows you to adjust your bait and techniques to ensure a strike.
Sight fshing isn’t just about catching fsh; it’s about understanding their behavior, engaging with the process, and enjoying the thrill of spotting your target underwater. So next time you’re out on the water, keep your eyes peeled—you might just discover a whole new dimension to your angling.
I hope you fnd this article informative! If you have any other requests or questions, feel free to ask. Tight lines.
Contact Capt. John Luck at luckydogman@msn.com.
South Pacifc Topwater Fight Club
It seems the farther south you go, the tougher the fsh get. Tis holds true in the South Pacifc. If you’re looking to go head-to-head and toe-to-fn with some of the toughest fsh out there, Fiji is a great bet.
Tese fsh are aggressive, fast and strong, and with a fortress built of line-cutting sharp edges, the fsh start with the advantage. Tis is a great place to target giant trevally (GT). Although it is still far away, Fiji is a great alternative to the Seychelles, and it is a destination that ofers amenities for anglers as well as their non-fshing companions. I fshed out of Savusavu, a large remote island that requires an additional hour-long fight on a small plane from the international airport on the main Island. Te remoteness means less fshing pressure, but the island still ofers luxury accommodations. As fshy as Fiji is, it doesn’t get much fshing tourism. It’s a diving and resort destination that happens to ofer amazing fshing. Summers feature a great yellowfn tuna and GT bite, and winters hold marlin and wahoo. I was there during a transitional phase into winter (seasons are reversed there), and there were plenty of resident fsh to target including GT, which is what I was afer. Immersion Fiji is the most experienced guide on the island, and Michael can handle anything from topwater for GT to massive yellowfn and even spearfshing or a cool waterfall getaway.
Te GTs are unquestionably an apex predator and the top quarry. Tese are very aggressive, strong and smart fsh that you need to be battle ready for. My weapon consisted of heavy spinning gear with 100-lb. braid, 150-lb. leader and 350-lb. terminal tackle. When a GT explodes on a 7-inch popper, there is no question that it’s game on. It’s like a bowling ball being dropped from a third-foor window, followed by hooking your line to a semi truck. With drags set at 20 pounds, the fght is as much on the fsh as it is on you. Any less drag would result in countless breakofs in the reef. Te fght will tax your strength, and be prepared for some heartbreaks. Tere is no doubt that topwater fshing for these guys exceeds the hype.
Another fsh that will blast your popper is a Pacifc Spanish mackerel, also known to the locals as walu. Similar looking to our kingfsh, this is one of Fiji’s most prized table fare. It’s much whiter, fakier meat than our mackerel and is a staple in Fiji’s national dish Kokoda (pronounced ko-con-da), which is a ceviche with fresh coconut cream. Tey ofen blow a plug completely out of the water, and they also hit deep trolling plugs, which makes for a nice break
By Will Schmidt
from casting. Long strong runs and crazy aerial attacks make this another great fsh to come across as you search for GTs.
You can also downsize to a foating stick bait for additional topwater action. Smaller, yet aggressive and strong fsh like red bass, bluefn trevally, emperor fsh and other reef dwellers provide plenty of exciting action on the surface.
If giant trevally are on your hit list, Fiji is an amazing destination that fully delivers. Te locals could not be more inviting and friendly, the water is unbelievably clear, and the islands are as peaceful as they are beautiful. It’s truly a trip of a lifetime.
Will Schmidt is a seasoned tournament angler who has been writing about fshing for three decades. For information about fshing Fiji, contact Immersionfji.com.
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TARGETING FALL SNOOK
THATCH MAGUIRE, EDITOR AT LARGE
Snook are a great inshore/near shore species to target. Teir predator style bite and their world class fght make them truly worthy of the gamefsh title, but catching a snook or targeting snook can be challenging. While there are countless fsheries that hold snook, narrowing down the best area is not an easy call. Given that snook season opens on Florida’s east coast September 1st here are a few tips that will pay of in planning a successful snook fshing trip; one that nearly ensures your success.
First and foremost, where are you most likely to catch snook? Tat’s not a trick question. It’s the frst question you should answer before planning your snook fshing expedition. My snook fshing eforts have led me to believe that the Jupiter Inlet on Florida’s East Coast is the most reliable estuary for easily accessible snook for beginners. My catch ratio over the many years that I have fshed the Jupiter Fla. Inlet suggests that the primary species in and around this pristine inlet is snook. Day in day out, if you catch a fsh in the Jupiter Inlet it will more than likely be a snook.
Te next important question for a successful trip is what to use as a bait or lure? For the most predictable success I strongly recommend live bait. Te bigger the better. Pilchards are my number one live bait, but croakers and pinfsh work well too. Keeping your live bait lively
and healthy is a chapter in itself. Changing your water regularly and adding aeration are key essentials to prolonging your bait’s life. Tere’s nothing worse than getting on top of the bite and discovering your bait is dead. We’ve all done it, but don’t let it happen to you.
Next on the check list is tackle. You’ll want to scrap the light tackle approach for Jupiter Inlet snook. Medium to heavy or you’ll invariably lose the big ones. I recommend a 20-pound braid with at least a 40-pound leader. Circle hooks are a good consideration if you’re experienced in using them. Nothing less than a #4. You better have a heavy-duty landing net too because some of these monsters just won’t ft into some of the more modest nets. Te next important question is the easiest to answer. Where in the Jupiter Inlet do I fsh for snook with predictable results? Answer- just about anywhere! Obviously, docks are a great hiding place for snook, and night fshing will normally produce the best results around docks with lights or shadow lines. Flip a big pilchard under a dock light in Jupiter Inlet and watch what happens. You’re about to be tested because you’ve got to horse them away from the pilings or you’ll be kicking yourself for days. Tis is where the braid comes in handy. It’ll allow you to win that battle more ofen than not. But everybody loses that battle from time to time. Seawalls are also a good source for targeting snook. Tey’re cruising the seawalls constantly so just be patient and let your live bait do all the work.
You can use live shrimp if that’s all you can get, but your species catch will not be predominantly snook. You’ll catch a fair amount of junk fsh in Jupiter with live shrimp. I personally don’t want to confuse the efort with all that inferior action, and you don’t have to travel to Jupiter for that catch.
A NEW NAME FOR BASS? ‘FLORIDA’ BASS
Largemouth bass in Florida will now have a new name. Tis new designation may also afect bass in Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina as well. Tey are now designated as Florida bass. We’re sure our buddies in Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina are going to love that, but a recent study by researchers at Yale University using genetic analysis determined that Florida bass are their own distinct species. Te scientifc name for Florida bass is Micropterus Salmiodes while the scientifc name for largemouth bass will now be Microperus Nigrians.
Anglers have long suspected that bass in Florida grow faster and bigger and now the genetic research confrms that theory. How this new designation will afect the bass tournament circuit and regulations remains to be seen.
According to Michelle Kerr,
Repower Center
spokesperson for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, “Genetics research gave us a clearer picture of what many anglers and biologists have long suspected: Florida bass are truly unique. Recognized now as a distinct species from the largemouth bass, this new classifcation not only celebrates Florida bass as a symbol of our state’s freshwater legacy but will also orts in conservation and management.”
Given that Florida hatcheries have long been a premium source for stocking and restocking bass estuaries throughout the world, the new designation could have ramifcations beyond the Carolinas and Georgia. Regardless of what the future for bass nomenclatures holds in store, our hats go of to the astute researchers at Yale University for providing proof of what many anglers have suspected for years.
For more information on Florida bass visit myfwc.com/fshing/freshwater/black-bass/forida-bass/
By Emily Hanzlik
events, which is a video of my coworkers and I fshing the local waters. Within the videos are lessons about rigs or lures that best ft the area. Tese videos are the backbone of our online program, which guides new anglers through learning to fsh.
TEACHING THE NEXT GENERATION OF ANGLERS
This summer, I’ve had the opportunity to work on my passion for educating young anglers. Tere is a growing need to bring youth involvement to the sport, and here are some of the ways I’ve been able to target young anglers recently.
I am lucky to work with the International Game Fish Association (IGFA). Most people know this organization for keeping track of record fsh, but they also teach families to fsh. IGFA provides Passports Kits, which are all-in-one teaching boxes with everything needed to put on a fshing clinic. Tese kits are sent all over the world, where individuals teach kids and families the basics.
Within the past few years, IGFA has partnered with the National Park Service to host fshing events. My coworkers and I travel to national parks to help them begin their teaching journey.
We show them how to use the tools in the Passport Kit and help them run an education event. We average about 50 people at these events, and usually half of them are kids. First, families attend a basics-of-fshing clinic, and then everyone fshes!
My favorite thing from these clinics is how excited the kids are about learning to cast. I stand in front of them and tell them to aim at me like they are throwing a ball. Some kids are nervous, at frst, but the fear goes away when they realize it is easy. It’s an amazing feeling knowing you helped change someone’s perspective.
In addition to working with IGFA, I also run my own charter, Emily Hanzlik Outdoors. My focus is to give kids a one-on-one experience learning to fsh. Everything is from land at a local marina where I grew up fshing. I give kids tons of hands-on experiences and teach them about the surrounding environment. I recently completed a trip with three young girls who had fshed before but didn’t know the true beauty of it. I had some mini fsh tanks set up that allowed them to view the tropical fsh they caught. Te youngest girl would catch her fsh and immediately run it over to view it in the tank. Each time she would pull out a book I had given them and try to identify the species. She would sit there for a few minutes admiring the fsh before releasing them. I can positively say all three girls learned to appreciate the beauty of the fshery we have in south Florida.
Take a kid fshing. It might be something they never forget!
Tere is also an online component to these
Emily Rose Hanzlik has caught more than 60 IGFA world records in various categories. Find her on social media @emilyhanzlikoutdoors.
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FWC IMPLEMENTS RED SNAPPER LOTTERY
Florida Fish and Wildlife (FWC) is giving anglers the opportunity to directly provide data and improve the management of red snapper in the South Atlantic ocean.
With an exempted fshing permit, you can fsh for red snapper and keep them outside of the 1-day federal season. But here’s the catch, only a limited number of anglers can get one.
Te FWC recognizes that a 24-hour Atlantic Red Snapper season is disappointing. Tat’s why they want to recruit recreational anglers to collect better data on snapper fshery. Up to 200 people will be selected by lottery every 3 months for the opportunity.
FWC Federal Fisheries Section Leader CJ Sweetman said about 1,600 exempted fshing permits will be issued to anglers this year. Locally, 800 of those permits will be awarded to the “Hot Spot Fleet” which stretches from the Florida Georgia Line south to Cape Canaveral.
“ Te most recent federal stock assessment for Atlantic red snapper classifed as undergoing overfshing. But the stock assessment also showed that there’s near record abundance of red snapper, which is kind of what everyone sees on the water,” Sweetman said.
EFPs allow harvest for certain fsh and wildlife prohibited under current federal regulation, like red snapper
Having this permit, will allow anglers to give better data to FWC so that FWC can take that to the council and hopefully get it to open back up a longer season.
Te three EFP projects are happening simultaneously over the next 12 months from August 2024 through July 2025. Tey will be broken up into four, three-month quarters.
• Quarter 1: August 2024 to October 2024
• Quarter 2: November 2024 to January 2025
• Quarter 3: February 2025 to April 2025
• Quarter 4: May 2025 to July 2025
Each quarter’s application period will open the month before.
To apply for an EFP, log in or create an account with Go Outdoors Florida and select the project you want to collaborate with the FWC on. In Northeast Florida, you’ll want to select the “Hot Spot Fleet.”
You don’t have to own a boat to apply for an exempted fshing permit.
By Ben Martin, Editor in Chief
HOLLYWOOD FISHES
Passionate anglers are in all elements of our society. Te angling community is inclusive of all socioeconomic strata and political preferences. It’s non-racially biased, non-gender specifc or restrictive, and passionate anglers are found within all professions.
I recently had the opportunity to interview one of Hollywood’s up-andcoming young talents, Alex Neustaedter. You may remember him from his roles in American Rust, Colony, Ithaca, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and a slew of others, but what surprised me during our interview is all he wanted to talk about was fshing.
From the memory of his frst fsh, a sun perch caught from Lake of the Ozarks, to his ofshore kingfsh in South Florida, to his current fy fshing endeavors Out West, I found myself thinking, “He’s one of us.”
Tat commonality within the sport of fshing is so rare in today’s era of divisiveness and exclusionary mentality that I feel compelled to salute us, anglers of all walks of life sharing the joys of something we can all agree on. Fishing is a great sport, and anglers make up a great community.
For more information on Alex Neustaedter and his cinematic career, visit https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2614237.
Don Norton
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AIRBOAT RIDES
Airboat Wildlife Adventures 863-655-4737 4971 US-98, Sebring
APPAREL
Pure Grit Boot Company ........ 863-453-0408
307 West Main Street, Avon Park
*Lake Placid Western Wear 863-465-4731 417 US 27 S Lake Placid
ARCHERY
*Skull Hill Archery
863-484-0032 1505 Parrott Ave, Okeechobee
BARBER SHOP
Matt's Barbershop
5367 US 27 South Unit B, Sebring
863-991-2317
BASS FISHING TOURNAMENTS
The Big Show Bass Tournaments 518ranger1992@gmail.com 863-412-9095
BEAUTY SALON
Flippin' Out Salon
863-402-4605 3605 Sebring Parkway, Sebring
BOAT DEALERSHIPS
Boaters World Marine Center
730 US 27 North, Lake Placid
863-232-5661
*Erwine's Marine ............. 863-635-4492 250 S. Scenic Highway, Frostproof Lake & Trail USA
863-484-5113 1253 FL-78, Okeechobee
Lake Placid Marine .............
863-465-2335 310 us 27 South, Lake Placid
BOAT/WATERSPORTS RENTAL
*Lake June Pontoon/ Jet Ski Rental ................... 863-464-0236 10 Lake June Clubhouse Rd, Lake Placid
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce 18 North Oak Ave Lake Placid 863-465-4331
Okeechobee Chamber of Commerce 55 S Parrott Ave, Okeechobee 863-467-6246
CHURCHES
*First Baptist Church 863-655-1878 1927 Blessing Ave, Lorida
DOG GROOMING
Rachel's Dog Grooming 863-214-3334 1128 Corvette Ave, Sebring
EDUCATION / SCHOOLS
*Chapman School of Seamanship 772-283-8130
Captain's License - www.chapman.org, Stuart
FISH CAMPS / CAMPGROUNDS
*Hendersons Fish Camp ....... 863-465-2101 35 Henderson Rd, Lake Placid www.hendersonsfishcampfl.com
FISHING GUIDES / FRESHWATER
Capt. Angie Doughit 863-228-7263 Lake Okeechobee Bass, Crappie/Bluegill southfloridabassfishing.com
Capt. Corky Neff ............... 606-584-0144 Lake Istokpoga, Lake Placid Corky & Tangies Guided Bass Fishing Tours.com
Capt. Mark King ................. 863-677-0983 Lake Okeechobee, markkingfishing.co
Capt. Reno Alley 800-749-2278
Lake Reedy, Walk-in-Water, Crooked Lake memorymakinguides.com
Capt. Valerie Morrell 863-633-6969 Headwaters floridatrophybassguide@gmail.com
FISHING GUIDES / SALTWATER
*Capt. Dave Stephens 941-916-5769 Boca Grande Pass, Charlotte Harbor
FISHING ROD SALES / REPAIR
Red’s Rod Repair & Custom Rods 3816 Divot Rd, Sebring 863-273-4998
FISHING TACKLE
Bass Addict 863-531-3495
490 US Hwy 27, Lake Placid
*Bridgemasters (Candy Store) 863-676-1009
2131 SR 60, Lake Wales
*Fast Break Bait and Tackle 863-763-0973
1505 State Road 78 West, Okeechobee fastbreakbaitandtackle.com
FRESH FISH MARKET
*Okeechobee Fish Company 863-357-7500 7841 FL 78W, Okeechobee facebook - Okeechobee Fish Company
GUNS & GUNSMITHS
*Gator Guns Inc. 863-993-2666 715 N Brevard Ave, Arcadia www.gatorgunshop.com
JRC Guns & Ammo ............. 863-212-0324 3033 US Hwy 27N, Sebring
HEARING AID SPECIALIST
*Lampe & Kiefer Hearing Aid Center ..................... 863-202-2323 130 S Commerce Ave, Sebring
HOME INSPECTION
SUN RAY Home Inspections 863- 553-8660 www.sunrayhomeinspectionsllc.com
HUNTING RESORT
*Lightsey's Family Ranch 863-464-0268 545 New Boot Hill Rd, Venus floridahuntingoutfitter.com
LIVE BAIT
*Neibert's Baits 863-263-0686 4971 US 98, Sebring
MEDICARE HEALTH PLANS
*Colleen Pennisi-Perez 786-213-3948 126 Dal Hall Blvd, Lake Placid
MUSEUMS
*Lake Placid Historical Society Depot Museum 863-465-1775 12 West Park Street Lake Placid
Sebring Historical Society 863-471-2522 321 Center Ave, Sebring
OUTFITTERS
Okeechobee Outfitters ........ 863-655-2454 www.guided-hunting.com
PAINTING - HOUSE
*Bernies House Painting 863-304-8937 Bernieshousepainting.com, Sebring
REAL ESTATE / AGENTS
*The Pipal Group............... 863-441-2039 255 E Interlake, Lake Placid Debrarutledgehomes@gmail.com
RESTAURANTS
*Galati's Restaurant............ 863-382-3333 637 S Commerce Ave, Sebring TAX SERVICE / ACCOUNTING
Heartland Tax & Accounting LLC 145 Center Ave, Sebring ......... 863-385-5020
TOURISM
*Okeechobee Tourist
Development Council 863-763-6441 304 NW 2nd Street Okeechobee
* See the business ad for more information
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT
If you're looking for one of Don Norton's books on fishing, you can find them at the following locations, or on Amazon.
Lake Placid Western Wear
417 US 27S, Lake Placid
Grateful Hearts
330 US 27N, Sebring
Bass Addict Tackle
490 US 27, Lake Placid
ASK RED
What is Catch and Release?
By Don Norton
until Ray Scott created the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society (B.A.S.S.) that tournament bass fishing really took off.
For the first couple of years, the organization began to grow quickly, and it wasn’t long before it started attracting national attention. By the early 1970s, pictures of tournament anglers holding up pictures of bass on stringers (most of which were dead) began to cause concern among all fishermen. Fear soon spread that the lakes throughout the country would soon be depleted of largemouth bass.
Something had to be done, and it had to be done quickly. Full credit goes to Scott, who introduced “Catch and Release” to every tournament, ensuring the future of bass fishing for everyone. To make the switch even more effective, he imposed a penalty on anglers bringing in a dead fish (a subtraction to their weight).
The idea quickly caught on, and virtually every tournament in the country soon began requiring a catch-and-release policy.
For old-timers like me, Catch and Release is built into our mindsets. We don’t even think about keeping bass, even when we’re not fishing tournaments.
Come Outside & Play!
But after 50 years of conditioning anglers to release their catch, biologists strongly recommend that anglers start keeping a few bass to maintain a healthy fishery. Similar to the concept of “thinning the herd” when it comes to deer hunting, removing some of the smaller bass helps to create a stronger fishery for the future.
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Experience world-class bass fishing in the heart of Okeechobee, FL, where every cast is an opportunity for an unforgettable catch.
Updates from
WHunter Brousseau
ell, July was a full month of traveling, living in hotels, and living out of suitcases. To some, this might seem fun and exciting, and it can be both, but it is also work and keeping a tight schedule.
Event #1 - MLF High School Fishing CampKentucky Lake in Kentucky
I was able to attend this event and help my grandfather, Gerry Brousseau, conduct seminars for young anglers. Although he was paid to attend this event, it was non-stop - keep track of time - keep the attendees entertained, and make sure you don’t fall behind. 4 grueling days with the highlights being all the pros such as Keith Poche, Fletcher Shyrock, Bradley Roy we shared the stage with and gave seminars with. Another plus was being able to fish Kentucky Lake.
Event #2 - Stop and film in Alabama
Two videos were completed, one on bass fishing with a new color combo on a Senko and a Bluegill show showing how easy it is for young children to enjoy nonstop action on the water. Film two new videos of a new product called Sonic, which was unveiled at ICAST but is still not available to the public.
Event #3 - ICAST
Four more days of talking, this time with the buyers, meetings with existing and potential new sponsors, picture taking, and meeting all of our friends in the industry. High points: Bill Dance signed my trophy, which I won at the Bill Dance Giant Bass Open, and I took it to all my sponsors' booths for
display and picture taking. I also received all the new products for filming and use. Be sure to watch my upcoming videos to see all the new things.
I am now back in school. I started the 7th grade, and things will get a little less hectic now that we have limited travel time. A great education is needed in life regardless of what profession you pursue. Please take the time to visit my new website www.Hunterbrousseau.com
Thank you, and tight lines till next month
With over 4 decades of fishing experience, Captain Corky Neff is passionate about putting you on the fish.
Step on board his 21’ Ranger bass boat with a 250 HP Mercury engine, your group will find themselves on the fish before you know it.
Capt. Corky knows the lakes well and will take you to the best places to fish. You might arrive as customers, but you are sure to leave as friends with a love of fishing and wish to come back again and again.
Capt. Corky can’t wait to welcome you onboard – book your guided bass fishing tour now and join him on the water!
Be sure to check out the photo gallery and follow us on Facebook to see some of the monster fish that Corky and his happy customers have landed!
Don't Forget!
By Brandon Baughman
Here we are September, the month we all have been waiting for. August has already shown us some awesome looking South Florida bucks and now pretty much the rest of Florida is about to get their chance to get into the woods. We're excited and we are ready to put some carbon through some animals. Or are we? Don't be the guy that got to the stand and went oh man I forgot my...! Here are some items to make sure you have as back up so you don't mess up!
Your release!! One of the biggest Oopsies I've heard a lot happen to hunters is that they got to the stand or where they were going to hunt and forgot their release. It's easy to do in the mad rush of trying to get going where you need to be, making sure you've got everything, you think you have it with you and you don't. One of the easiest ways to make sure it never happens to you is to have a spare. Make sure you're hunting pack has a second release set up just like your primary so in case the day comes and your forget your release you can still hunt!!
A therma cell! Or some type of bug repellent. So many hunters have been driven from the woods for not having the proper way to repel our prehistoric size micropredators!! Having at least 2 therma cells with you just in case one fails, can make your hunt from a not going to happen
predicament to an all day sit (if you want)!
Lastly, is an extra range finder or at least batteries for the one you use! There's been a lot of times where hunters have forgotten the rangefinder or worse they have it with them and then it doesn't range. Sometimes electric components just fail so have a spare rangefinder could make or break a hunt. Now not everybody has all that kind of money to just spend on an extra rangefinder so at least have extra batteries for your old faithful. Sometimes it's the last thing we think about until we're in the stand and then all of sudden that rangefinder doesn't work. Most of y'all season hunters have experiences or just know better. These are just some of the tips that have been shared over the years from customers sitting at my counter. It's a heart wrenching moment where you have to pack up or worse watch that prize animal walk away from you and you can't do anything about it.
You all be safe this hunting season and know that Skull Hill Archery is always here to help you with anything that you may need. God bless and happy hunting.
— Brandon Baughman | Skull Hill Archery
FULL SERVICE PRO SHOP
We are a fully stocked Pro shop for all your archery needs. Including consigned and new bows.
• 20 yard indoor range •
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Capt. Mark King
Okeechobee REPORT & FORECAST
As September rolls into South Florida, the heat continues, and it has been a hot summer for sure. The fishing on Lake Okeechobee has been pretty good in spite of the heat and high water temperatures. We are still getting out early while it is still a little cool out and then getting off the water when it gets hot. Once we get through September, it will start to cool off a little in October, and the fishing will improve by the day.
We are still doing the summertime thing of fishing the outside grass line in most areas, with the best for me being from Clewiston up the shoal to Whiddens Pass. The fish have been pretty scattered, but when you do find some, there seems to be more than one in the area.
I have been catching bass on a Gamber Fat Ace fished real slow, and I mean almost asleep slow. There has been a little topwater bite early when I start in the morning, try frogs in the grass and Zara Super Spooks out in open water if you see bass chasing bait. There has been some shad on the outside up the shoal, and when you find them, the bass won’t be far away.
They are still spraying vegetation on Okeechobee even though there just doesn’t seem to me to be anything left to spray. I just can’t seem to wrap my head around the fact that the FWC and the state of Florida are hell-bent on destroying Lake Okeechobee and most other lakes in Florida. It is time the governor and other state officials started caring about all the resources of Florida and not just the coasts.
The guides and the fishermen have been to the meetings and have had their say, but no one seems to want to listen.
I am looking forward to a great fall, winter, and spring season here on Lake Okeechobee, and the fishing will be great as always. Now is the time to start booking those trips, as dates do fill up quickly. Until next month tight lines and bass wishes to all. www.markkingfishing.co
Located on 2,000 acres of Florida bays, pines, palmettos, and oaks, outside the small town of Lake Placid, the Lightsey Family Ranch is perfect for the avid hunter and outdoorsman. Owner and lifelong hunter, Lee Lightsey, offers you to a one-of-a-kind hunting experience, including wild hog, quail, pheasant, turkey, deer, and alligator hunts. During your hunt you are welcome to stay at our lodge which features room for up to 28 guests, a large lobby with a true old Florida feel, and a full time Chef ready to prepare your meals.
ISTOKPOGA FISHING FORECAST
Fish Fry
One of the joys of fishing, beyond the bragging rights, is the opportunity to have a fish fry with friends and neighbors. Many anglers look forward to these events almost as much as national holidays.
A good friend of mine, Bob Scranton, who used to live in Avon Park and now lives in Lakeland, has been providing fish filets for the last quarter century to his entire church congregation. He has a little help from a few other members of the church, but it’s a huge event. The main dish at Bob’s church is crappie filets. Anyone who has ever eaten crappies would quickly agree that they are one of the tastiest fish out there and one of the most abundant. Any angler can catch a mess of crappie almost any time of the year, although January through May is considered the prime crappie season.
If you don’t know how to catch them, call Tangie Neff (937-217-8076) or Dennis Crenshaw (863-441-2784). They’re crappie fishing guides, and they can definitely help you catch your limit of these tasty, fun-to-catch fish.
Bluegills are another favorite and can be caught in local lakes in a similar fashion to crappies, although the best time of the year for catching them is through the summer months. Even largemouth bass can provide some great eating.
Whether it's freshwater or saltwater fish, everyone enjoys a fish fry, and if you can’t catch it yourself, you can always buy fresh fish locally.
I recently purchased some bluegills and catfish from the Okeechobee Fish Company on the north side of Lake Okeechobee on Rt, 78W. Check them out for your next Fish Fry, and tell them The Angler sent you there!
Fishing One of the Wonders-of-the-World
NIAGARA FALLS, USA
By Misty Wells
Iam here to tell you, “You haven’t fished until you have fished Niagara Falls River for the first time.” Fishing the Niagara River is truly an unforgettable experience, and I am excited to share my Niagara Falls fishing and trip experience with you. Of course, first and foremost, experiencing the grandeur of the Falls is just mind-blowing, especially in the Fall season. I was fortunate enough to be invited to film my TV show “Let’s Take it Outside” in Niagara Falls, and when they told me that we were going to fish the Niagara River, my excitement went through the roof. Before and after my trip to Niagara Falls, I heard the same response when I shared my pictures and fishing story with everyone: “I didn’t know you could fish the Niagara”? The fishing is fantastic up there, and the entire area of Niagara and the surrounding towns are just like you would picture in a movie set.
On day 1, we arrived after a pretty easy trip from Tampa, Florida, to Buffalo, and the drive to Niagara was quick and easy. We settled in the Hotel and prepared for our evening dinner at the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute. If you plan a trip to Niagara Falls, you must add the Culinary Institute to your
list of “places to visit,” the dining experience was incredible, and the staff is 5-star. We made it an early night as we had quite a bit of fishing the next day, and Captain Frank said not to be late. Excited to fish with local legend Captain Frank Cambell, we met him at the dock at 7:00 a.m. I was ready for some fishing action. Captain Frank is a full-time guide with over 25 years of fishing experience on Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, and the Niagara River. Between fishing over 200 days a year, Frank finds time also to be the Outdoor Promotions Director at Destination Niagara Falls, USA.
Fishing the Niagara River in the Fall is breathtaking; the fall foliage was full color, and Capt. Frank said the fishing was on fire. We started fishing around the mouth of Lake Ontario, where the Niagara River and Lake meet, using spinning rods with lures. Capt. Frank said we would be targeting Lake Trout, Small Mouth Bass, and Brown Trout in that area. Of course, I had never caught any of those freshwater species, so I was ready to start catching. Right off the bat, Frank started catching a lot of smallmouth bass; then, he landed a large Lake Trout. I was starting to get worried because, so far, I had not caught anything; I was missing the bite. Now, I fish in Florida, and the fish here are much more aggressive; the Niagara fish are much more polite, and you must pay attention to the bite. We would run up to the mouth of the river, then drift back and bounce the jigs off the bottom across the rocks. Once I caught a few Bass, I got a feel for how to work the lures off the bottom, and I started to catch up with Frank. My first big catch was a Lake Trout, and it was huge, at least it was huge to me. Lake Trout has a Suttle bite and doesn’t fight too much, so I did not expect the fish to be as big as it was; I was happy, to say the least. As the day went on, we caught a lot of Small Mouth Bass, and then Frank landed a nicesized Brown Trout; they are just beautiful. As the day went on, I hoped to land a Brown Trout like Frank. Finally, I got the bite, and Frank knew exactly what was on the other end of the line before I did. I had finally landed a nice Brown Trout, and my first day of fishing the Niagara was complete.
We planned two days of fishing on the river but wanted to film some other attractions and sites at Niagara, so we called it a day. Next, we loaded up and headed for a guided tour of Old Fort Niagara. Old Fort Niagara is a historic site
Continued on page 17
JD Moss
So, you’re goin’ fishin’, and you need some live bait. Well, here’s a few places The Angler Magazine recommends:
Avon Park – Hendricks Corner Store 202 E. Main St. 863-453-3058
Sebring – Marathon Gas Station 3641 US 27S 863-382-1232
Lorida – Trails End 4232 Trails End 863-655-0134
Lake Placid – Bass Addict Ste 1380, 490 US Hwy 27 863-531-3495
Lake Placid – Hendersons Fish Camp 35 Henderson Rd 863-465-2101
Moore Haven – Big Water Bait and Tackle 1027 Martin Blvd NE 863-946-1400
Okeechobee – FastBreak 1505 FL-78 863-763-0973
Clewiston – Jolly Rogers Marina 1095 E Sugarland Hwy 863-983-7402
Another Successful Season
Congratulations to FWC’s Bass Tournament Volunteer Team for completing another successful fishing tournament season this past April! Bass Tournaments on Lake Istokpoga are typically held from October through April, where fishermen from all over Florida can compete
to catch the heaviest bag (5 fish limit) to win cash prizes.
The volunteer group who assists tournament directors, led by long-time volunteer Jim Reed, has worked with FWC to support the Bass Tournament program for more than a decade. The group assists the tournament director with the final weigh-ins, checking for disease and lesions, measuring fish length, and recording data from each fish presented. Altogether, the process takes approximately two minutes for each fish and provides valuable data to FWC fisheries biologists.
April marked the last tournament for two members of the group. Jim Reed and Joe List announced that they will be retiring from their roles. Both have been vital to keeping the volunteer efforts running like a well-oiled machine. We want to thank Jim and Joe for sharing their knowledge and assistance since 2014.
Jim and Joe's departures leave openings for new fishing tournament volunteers. To get involved, contact FWC’s Ridge Ranger Volunteer Program Biologist, Jonathan Foligno at Jonathan.Foligno@myfwc.com
— To get involved, contact FWC’s Ridge Ranger Volunteer Program Biologist, Jonathan Foligno at Jonathan.Foligno@myfwc.com
for all Veterans and First Responders
WE ARE HIRING! WANTED
Experienced Angler
If you are passionate about the outdoors and fishing, The Angler Magazine is offering a Life Changing opportunity to develop a career in the Fishing and Marine Industry.
Having a job in an industry that you’re passionate about is a very different way to approach employment. Your job is no longer a job, it’s a lifestyle and you’ll never dread going to work again. You’ll be excited and love the life that you’re building.
This is an entry level position with unlimited opportunity for advancement. You can create a career doing what you love. The Angler Magazine needs to hire someone to help us manage our growth. Sales experience helpful. We’re going to train and mentor you to create the position that you’ve been dreaming about.
• Valid Driver’s License
• Reliable transportation
• Outgoing personality Passion and desire are all we’re looking for. Your success will be our success.
Dreamers welcome !! We’ll be interviewing throughout the month. Call for an appointment and let’s “Hook Up” Your new career with The Angler Magazineawaits! Call 863-273-4998 or email donorton13@gmail.com
Okeechobee REPORT & FORECAST
Bass and Crappie fishing on Okeechobee has been good. With some outings, we catch numbers with some nice kicker-size bass, and other days a bit slower but bigger in size using both artificial lures and/or live bait “shiners.” The bluegill is still on/around the beds and will continue to spawn throughout the summer months. Potential clients who call ask questions such as: “When is the best time to fish”? “What’s the average size bass?”
It’s imperative as a professional fishing guide to ask customers some questions to help familiarize them with what the customer is wanting to get from the trip…” what species would you like to target” “you prefer live or artificial lures” “are their Children” “can you use spinning gear or bait casters,” knowing my customers and their capabilities and what they want to gain from the trip helps me to better prepare myself and the boat and a more productive day on the water and not putting them into an element where they’re not comfortable or feel as though it’s beyond their capabilities…that is not fun for anyone !!
I absolutely love putting smiles on people’s faces by helping them make memorable days on the water; they gain knowledge of the lake, how to fish it successfully, and enjoy all the beautiful wildlife that only Lake Okeechobee offers. Now, let’s get on with the fishing report….the month of September will be a mixed bag of weather, such as hot temperatures, rain, and more heat, which is why getting out on the water early in the mornings and perhaps late afternoon is much more pleasant, weather-wise for this time of year.
The early Fall timeframe moving forward into the Winter months and then early Spring can be an ideal time to fish Okeechobee, typically the bass and crappie start to move into the shallows for the start of the spawning season mid-November and can extend all the way until the mid/latter part of April. Although fishing during the heat of the summertime months here on Okeechobee can be rewarding and fun, most people prefer a little cooler weather and a better chance at landing that big female bass or jigging up a limit of really-good sized silver and black crappie. Whatever your preference is, whether it is catching bass on artificial lures or perhaps live bait or pinpointing big “specks,” which is what we call “crappie,” is your style of fishing, now is the time to book your fun-filled and productive day fishing Lake Okeechobee.
A few areas to fish now for bass and bluegills are the North Shore, Tin House, Observation Shoal, Kissimmee River, J & S Canal, and some parts of Kings Bar. If you have any questions, call or text 863-228-7263 or log onto my website at www.southfloridabassfishing.com, where you’ll find updated pictures of customers and their catches, top hotel discounts/ recommendations, fishing reports, what to bring, what the guide provides and etc. Be safe out on the water !!! My sponsors are Mercury, Power-Pole, Gene Larew, Bullet Weights, Gill, Navionics, BnM crappie poles, Mid-South tackle, G-Loomis, Rapala, Real Magic, Pradco Brands, Lews, and Megastrike.
Capt. Dave Stephens
Flats REPORT & FORECAST
Transition Month
September can be a very special month on Charlotte Harbor. We are getting into the transition from summer to fall. This means a lot of things are going on, from fish that depend on a food source to migrate or getting ready for possible winter. Don't get me wrong, we are not in any way discussing winter. Large schools of ladyfish are running the bars feeding on glass minnows; in return, the feeding frenzy calls in tarpon looking to fatten up to migrate. Finding a frenzy like this is like finding a gold mine. There is so much going on that you almost don't want to fish. It's actually pretty cool just sitting back and watching Mother Nature!
Without a doubt, the number one fishery that people have been waiting for has got to be redfish. This is another fishery that relies on mullet. Reds love crustaceans, so any school of fish that swims around stirring up the bottom is going to call in the redfish. Locating large schools of mullet on the local bars is key to finding feeding reds. If you find the mullet, it is more than likely you will find the reds. This is the time of year when the harbor is full of life, mostly life that's trying to ensure that the next generation lives a prosperous life. We often think of spring as the best time to fish. However, I think the fall is probably my favorite time; fish that survived the summer are getting ready for winter. Just a reminder: They did not make it this far without being aggressive!!
If you would like to experience some of Southwest Florida's finest fishing? Give us a call or send an email. All of our charters are private and customized to fit you and your party's needs. 941-916-5769 www.backbayxtremes.com
— Capt. Dave Stephens } www.backbayxtremes.com | 941-916-5769
There is some great fishing going on over on the South Chain. The water temperature is 88 degrees, and the fish are in deep water. All the fish I’m catching are in 18-22 feet of water.
Find the deep grass and fish the outside edges.
The artificial lures to use are:
Senkos rigged Texas style
Gambler worms, 8” ribbon tail
Worms rigged Carolina-style
¾ oz. Rattle Traps
Some big swim baits are good as well.
Live Bait:
Medium shiners. The wild shiners are the best, and they are about 5-7” long.
Rig the shiners on a Carolina rig. Use a small 1/8” sinker to get the shiner down to the bottom.
Slow trolling the shiners on the grass line works best at this time of year.
Fishing slow and deep gets you some big bass in the hot weather.
Trailer Tips: Wheel Bearing Maintenance
By Ron Myrnes
A super Lube hub with the dust cap removed revealing the grease fitting.
At one point or another, we’ve all seen it: a boat trailer on the side of the road missing a wheel. Someone’s day of fun on the water was ruined. What happened was that corrosion had set in causing the wheel to overheat and damage the bearings and the spindle to the point of the hub with the attached wheel separating from the axle. In the marine environment water is deadly to metal, and salt water is doubly so.
On older trailers, there was only the dust cap at the end of the axle to contain the grease. As the trailer was driven the wheel hubs got warm. When the trailer was backed into the water, submerging the wheels caused a sudden drop in temperature in the hub, which caused water to be drawn into the hubs, leading to corrosion.
Most if not all newer boat trailers have a pressurized wheel bearing system to help prevent this from happening. Two popular systems are Super Lube and Bearing Buddy. With the Super Lube spindle or hub system as new grease is pumped into the system the old grease is forced out of the bearings into
the dust cap reservoir insuring that the hub is full with new grease. With the Bearing Buddy the axle hub is filled with grease through a grease fitting until the grease forces the Bearing Buddy piston outward about 1/8 inch. Because the piston is spring loaded, the piston exerts a slight pressure against the grease, which maintains a slight pressure between the inside of the hub and the outside environment. When the hub is submerged, water cannot enter the hub because of this pressure. For an older trailer with only the factory dust caps the Bearing Buddy is an easy to do modification.
All that’s required to maintain these systems is to periodically add grease, making sure not to overfill the hub and ruin the rear grease seal on the hub. Specific instructions for your system will explain how to check the grease level and if low how much to add. Under normal maintenance one or two pumps of a small grease gun are sufficient. “Marine Grade” grease has been formulated to help combat the effects of water corrosion, be sure to use a type of grease for your particular hub system.
A small grease gun and the proper grease is all that’s required to maintain your hubs.
Next time you’re pre-tripping your trailer before heading out, along with checking your lights, and tires check those wheel hubs to ensure a safe trip to your destination and a fun day on the water!
that offers a stunning combination of original 18th-century buildings and dynamic living history recreations. It is unbelievable how well-built things were back then and how this Fort has stood the test of time; it’s a beautiful historical experience for anyone. No trip to Niagara would be complete without a cruise on the “Maid of the Mist,” which is now wholly electric; I was so excited I booked two cruises back-to-back that day. The “Maid of the Mist” has been running tours at Niagara Falls since 1846, and they take you up close and personal up to Niagara Falls. You better plan to get wet, as that is part of the fun; the force of the water from Niagara is staggering. During peak flow, Niagara Falls flows at more than 700,000 gallons per second, with over 280 tons of force hitting the base of the falls. After falling, the water flows north through the Niagara Gorge and into Lake Ontario, where we were fishing earlier that day. In 1901, Annie Edson Taylor became the first person to survive a barrel ride over the Falls when she was 63 years old; she did send her cat first, which also survived. We also fit in a trip to Sanger Farms, where this Florida girl went from picking oranges to apples and dining on homemade apple pie.
Niagara Falls State Park is America's oldest state park known for its jawdropping scenic beauty. The fishing begins in Devil’s Hole, a few miles below Niagara Falls; the river then flows eight miles downstream to where its mouth empties into Lake Ontario. Lower Niagara River is known for its Chinook salmon, steelhead, and walleye; all those species were on my list. We started Day 2 of fishing in Devil’s Hole; I was desperate to catch a walleye and salmon on my last day. The water flow is much faster in the upper Niagara, so your drift fishing differs from the lower waters. Capt. Frank would drive us upriver and tell you to get ready, and then the quick drift downstream would begin. We use a similar setup for fishing as the day before, with spinning rods and silver and green lures bouncing along the bottom.
The Niagara fish will congregate wherever the current has a break in it or where they can feed; my first catch in the upper Niagara was a nice steelhead salmon. The fishing was on fire again that day; we caught and released many fish, but I was still hoping for my first walleye. Par for the course, Frank caught a nice walleye before me, but finally, my fishing dream came true, and I landed one as the “last fish of the day.” I can’t believe I could complete my “Niagara Fishing Bucket List” in just two days: Lake Trout, Brown Trout, Small Mouth Bass, Salmon, and Walleye. That night, we dined on our freshly caught walleye at Casa Antica, a family-run Italian restaurant in Historic Lewiston. “Casa Antica is authentic Sicilian dishes with a farm-to-table flair that is worth the trip just to have dinner, Mangia.” People say, “The Niagara River is one of North America's best, if not the best, fisheries.” The Niagara is a fantastic fishery because of the different species, the numbers, and the size of fish yearround. “Fishing the Niagara River truly is fishing magic, and let’s be honest, the scenery’s not bad either.”
— Misty Wells Award Winning Producer & Host of “Let’s Take it Outside” airing on Discovery Channel & 12 networks to over 220 million viewers Worldwide. Outdoor Pro & Outdoor Travel Writer. Founder of “A Reel Future,” a non-profit devoted to teaching the passion of fishing & conservation to foster children, over 3,800 children & counting. www.mistywells.com
“Let’s Take It Outside” with Misty Wells
Bible Study — 9:00 am (for all ages)
Morning Worship — 10:30 am
Evening Worship — 6:30 pm
Child care provided
Children’s Service — 6:00 pm
Bible Study & Prayer - 6:30 pm
P.O. Box 267
1927 Blessings Ave. Lorida, FL 33857-0267
Just come and see if Jesus won’t give you real life.
Jesus said, “Come,” so do we.Come and find the peace this world does
Jesus said, “Come,” so do we.Come and find the peace this world does not have. Come and find the forgiveness of sins. Come and receive the gift of salvation by grace. Just come and see if Jesus won’t give you real life.
863 - 655 - 1878 | fbclorida@embarqmail.com www.fbclorida.org
P.O. Box 267
1927 Blessings Ave. Lorida, FL 33857-0267
P.O. Box 267
1927 Blessings Ave. Lorida, FL 33857-0267
863 - 655 - 1878 | fbclorida@embarqmail.com www.fbclorida.org
863 - 655 - 1878 | fbclorida@embarqmail.com www.fbclorida.org Sunday Wednesday
The Big Show Bass Tournament
By Don Norton
My fishing partner was Joe Kozic during the summer of 2017. On the drive to and from the tournament, as well as during the slower periods of fishing, we’d talk about the bass tournaments we’d fished over the years and what we felt were some of the events' strengths and weaknesses.
I had run many bass tournaments over the past 50 years, and I really wanted a tournament that would be unlike any other. Something with a 100% payback, plaques and trophies, and food and drink after the tournament. Joe agreed.
The original name of the Big Show was “Don and Joe’s Big Show.” I was going to be the tournament director, and Joe was going to be the weighmaster. I’m sure there are probably a few anglers out there who remember our first tournament in October of 2017 on Lake Istokpoga. Unfortunately, I don’t remember it because I was in the hospital getting two more heart stents after my heart attack a few weeks earlier.
However, the first tournament was a huge success, and it was quickly followed by the November tournament, which I could attend.
My goal in creating the tournament series was to fish the event, but Joe didn’t feel the same way. After a few more tournaments, I gave the LLC to Joe. He renamed the event The Big Show Bass Tournament, BSBT.
For the next six years, Joe and his wife Pat did a great job of building the series and running the tournaments. I fished a few of the events and even cashed a check when I partnered with Capt. Corky Neff.
In early 2024, Joe gave the Big Show Bass Tournament to John Wood, a well-known local angler who had run his own bass fishing tournaments on Lake Istokpoga for years.
John will be the new tournament director for the Big Show beginning in September. Their first scheduled tournament is for the 2024-2025 season.
There’s
a Stir in the Air ...
The Big Show Bass Tournaments
John Wood announced the 2024-2025 tournament schedule for The Big Show Bass Tournaments and wanted everyone to know it would be starting sooner than normal. The first scheduled tournament will be Saturday, September 21st, 2024, followed by October 12th, November 9th, December 7th, January 11th, 2025, February 8th, 2025 and March 2nd, 2025. April 12th and 13th are scheduled for the season-ending Classic.
“I’m excited about taking over the Big Show from Joe Kozic this year. He ran a tight ship and did a great job. There may be a few changes, but for the most part, things will remain pretty much the same,” he said in a recent interview.
“We had a great turnout the last couple of years and we’re hoping for even more bass fishermen and women to join us in the future.”
Watch for more information coming out soon.
BIG BASS CONTEST
The Angler Magazine is pleased to announce our very own Big Bass Contest, which will run from September 1st to December 31st.
There is no entry fee, all that’s required is a picture of you and your bass, your name and the weight, and the lure or live bait used to catch the fish.
This contest is for big bass caught in Lake Istokpoga only. Another Big Bass Contest will be announced in January on a different lake. Pictures of all entries will be posted in The Angler Magazine each month along with your name and the weight of the fish, and the winner will be announced in The January edition of the magazine.
The winner will receive a hand-crafted 3-dimensional topo map created by Kimberly Welsh, the owner and operator of Heartland Crafted in Lake Placid, Florida.
You can email or text pictures of your big bass to Don Norton, c/o The Angler Magazine, at 863-273-4998, donorton13@ gmail.com, and don@theanglermagazine.com. Good luck.
COLLISION REPAIR
Henry Shumate
Roberts' Brothers
Robin White
Capt. Valerie Morrell
Easten Harrison
Austin Springer
Charlie Peck and son
The Old Man
Before any story can be written about trophy-size largemouth bass, it’s important to understand what big is. Many bass fishermen visiting Florida hope to catch a wall hanger, a trophy bass of 10 pounds or more. And a 10-pound bass is truly a trophy fish. But the biggest bass, the record holders, are typically twice that big. In this prequel to “Queenie, the Legend of Lake Istokpoga”, follow Bo Stephens on his challenging lifetime of adventure. Always coming back to fish for the legendary largemouth and passing the excitement, wonder, and mystique on to the next generation of anglers. This book follows
Queenie – The Legend of Lake istokpoga
25 years in the making, Queenie—The Legend of Lake Istokpoga is the incredible story of largemouth bass in Highlands County, Florida’s largest lake, Lake Istokpoga, from the time she is born to the ripe old age of 18. Throughout those years, she faces adversity and challenges at every turn. Many local bass anglers are included in the story (first names only) as they, too, become adversaries of this elusive bass.
The Aquarist
Don Norton grew up in Munroe Falls, Ohio where he first fell in love with tropical fish. Learning to fish alongside his father and brothers, he was fascinated with the aquatic life of all fish, and it was not long before he set up his first aquarium. Pet shops were not as popular in the 1960s as they are today, but he saved his money and bought a small 10-gal-lon aquarium and a couple of angelfish. From that day forward, he was hooked.
Just Add Water – Books 1 and 2
In 2012, I began writing another column for the NEWS SUN under the name Just Add Water. In addition to writing two newspaper columns each week, Don Norton is also the publisher of a monthly fishing magazine appropriately titled, The Angler Magazine – Lake Istokpoga/ Lake Okeechobee Edition. These two books represent many of the newspaper columns and stories about local lakes and people in Highlands County, Florida.
Fish Tales
A collection of articles and columns from the Highlands Today newspaper in 2004.
Please check the box next to the book you would like shipped to you along with the quantity of each in the supplied space.
Please mail this form to: 3816 Divot Rd, Sebring, FL 33872 Email w/questions donorton13@gmail.com Or call with your order to: 863-273-4998
LURE
By Don Norton
COLLECTING
How many times have you reached into your tacklebox and looked at a lure that’s older than you are? Or how many times have you seen old fishing lures at a garage sale or flea market? I think it’s fair to say we all have, and some of us have even attempted to collect and save some of these old and often antique lures.
Doug Williams, a resident of Lake Placid, has taken it a few steps further. Starting his collection over 20 years ago, he is now on a hunt to find lures made explicitly in Florida.
About eight years ago, on his birthday, he visited the area from South Florida and hired Capt. Don Hatcher, one of the top bass fishing guides in Highlands County, to take him bass fishing on Lake Istokpoga. It turned out to be a remarkable day. Fishing just north of Long Island with wild shiners, they landed several big bass while enjoying a beautiful sunrise over the lake.
Doug fell in love with the lake and purchased several acres of land along the west wall, just down from Pruitt’s Landing.
Doug’s collection is extensive. He started with some of the biggest names in fishing lure production: Creek Chub, Heddon, and South Bend…..just
to name a few. After a few years, he began concentrating on lures made in Florida and the history surrounding each lure. His original intent was to collect at least one example of each of the more than 500 known Florida lure makers, but he could not stop with just one and also branched out into fishing reels, rods, and fishing-related advertising.
A few regional examples of Florida lures include F.L.B. Flood from Frostproof, who carved a unique bass lure known as The Florida Shinner around 1930, H. B. Costa from Tampa, who created a very collectible lure he called the Istokpoga Hammerhead, and P. H. Rainey, who built Rainey’s Secret (“the answer to a fisherman’s prayer”), which he often fished on Lake Arbuckle. So, if you collect lures or have some old lures you’d like to sell, you might want to call Doug at 305-926-7526.
I’m pleased to also mention that he will be The Angler Magazine's newest contributing writer starting with the next issue.
By Wayne Johnson
past it before putting lines in the water.
Before I leave the boat ramp, I like to walk the dock, checking the direction of the tide and taking a good look for gamefsh or baitfsh. Either one indicates there is likely good fshing nearby and what hatch I may need to match.
DON’T PASS UP
FORGOTTEN FISH
How ofen do you load up your gear, tow your boat to the ramp, launch it and then go 100 yards or less, drop anchor and fsh?
Probably never.
I’m beginning to think nobody ever does. If you’re like me, you’re anxious to hit the throttle and head of to some distant location. You didn’t put all that horsepower on the back of your boat to idle 100 yards, but maybe you should.
I have frequently seen nice snook at the dock while launching my boat and then fail to see another fsh that good all day. It got me thinking that there has to be areas so close that boaters pass right by them, yet they are not accessible to shore anglers. Tese areas are also just up or down current from the docks where people clean fsh.
What if I just move a short distance from the boat ramp or across the canal? Tere must be some forgotten fsh that anglers blow right past every day. I started doing just that, and it usually turns out very well. What looks like heavily used areas are
not necessarily areas with heavy fshing pressure, and ofen they turn out to be quite productive. If they aren’t productive, it doesn’t matter. I didn’t burn much time or gas to try them.
Here on the west coast of Florida, south of Fort Myers, Lover’s Key is a great example of forgotten fsh. Afer launching, pretty much every boat heads straight for Estero Bay, to the passes or out into the Gulf of Mexico. Meanwhile, just a few yards in the other direction, I’ve seen redfsh, trout and snapper, and I put a friend on his personal-best snook. Tis spot is so close to the boat launch that even kayakers push
On a recent trip, I picked up a friend at his own dock, just of the Imperial River. We spotted a few fsh right there, and the fshing was so good that we never lef his canal the whole day. We caught four species within a quarter mile of his dock.
Typically, late in the day, when I’m headed back with a few lefover shrimp, I’ll stop just outside the pass and swap the smallest shrimp for ladyfsh. Or I’ll stop and throw a few more casts at some promising shoreline. It’s surprising how ofen I get a few good bites and a little excitement to end the day.
So, before heading out to your dream spot, or on the way back, try the nearby spots. You might just catch fsh everyone else forgot to fsh for.
Got a great fshing story?
Write it up and send with a few photos to editorial@coastalanglermagazine.com. We might just share it with the world.
WHEN HARD BOTTOM ISN’T ENOUGH
As the sun rises, the anticipation of a day on the water flls the air. Rods, tackle, and bait are loaded onto the boat, and the thrill of catching fsh beckons. But where should we go? Before we rush of, let’s explore our options.
If we’re going to be fshing close to the shoreline a few quick considerations will make for a more productive trip. Fish tend to congregate near structures that ofer both food and protection. Docks, wrecks, rip rap, pilings, and artifcial reefs create ideal habitats. However, these popular spots ofen sufer from overfshing, becoming less productive over time.
When the usual spots disappoint, consider rocky expanses known as “hard bottoms.” Tese rugged underwater landscapes provide excellent fshing opportunities. Even spear gun-toting divers appreciate their allure.
Beyond the basics, geographical opportunities present themselves throughout the Gulf of Mexico where vast and diverse bottoms ofers more than meets the eye. Natural formations, shaped by tectonic movements or volcanic activity, play a crucial role. Concentrations of fshable populations can be sparse, akin to desert patches in the
ocean. But structure in these areas remains key.
Te Desoto Canyon and “ Te Nipple” in the Gulf’s Desoto Canyon were formed by tectonic slip faults that plunge to uncommon depths. “ Te Nipple” is an intriguing part of this underwater landscape
near Destin, Fla. and remains a hotspot. Some speculate that its deep waters may also contribute to the area’s shark activity. Shipwrecks are silent havens. Shipwrecks, scattered across varying depths, serve as thriving habitats. Te skeletal remains of old vessels attract big game fsh like amberjacks and Goliath groupers. Tese submerged relics hold secrets and promise exciting encounters. Monoliths are underwater treasures. Tese underwater hills are jagged, solitary, and teeming with life. Monolithic structures encourage nutrient-rich currents to rise from the depths, attracting baitfsh. Predators patrol these underwater oases, seeking smaller prey. Don’t overlook them. Your sonar may reveal hidden fshing gems. Te Middle Grounds are a prime example: Located 100 miles NNW, the Middle Grounds exemplify monolithic fshing grounds. Here, the ocean’s secrets unfold, and every sounder blip could lead to a memorable catch.
In the vast expanse of saltwater, understanding these geological nuances can transform a fshing trip into an unforgettable adventure. So, load up your gear, set sail, and explore the mysteries beyond the shoreline!
Capt. Russ Walker is a USCG Masters licensed fshing guide and owner of Tide Walker Charters out of Cape Coral, FL. www.tidewalkercharters.com (239) 994-7818
Capt. Russ Walker
Geological features that infuence fshing in Gulf of Mexico’s Desoto Canyon.
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SKUZE SHOES: BOATING SHOES THAT DELIVER
As a life-long fsherman, I have tried and worn just about every type of boating shoe in the market. From fip-fops to sneakers and most of all, the big-name brands of deck shoes. Recently I attended ICAST in Orlando, the fshing industry’s annual convention where all things for fshing are on display for all attendees to view, and I found a company who claimed to have the best deck shoes ever made. I was surprised when the owner, Ted Alfen asked me to sit down and try a pair on. Wow, I am glad I did. Afer a brief walk around his booth and near the isle way, I decided to purchase them and give them a try.
Tese deck shoes are by far the most comfortable and lightest boat shoes I have ever worn. Te tremendous support of the removable inner sole is unlike most others in today’s market. Tey are also available in wide widths for those big fat feet like mine. Tey have fast drying, breathable mesh material and non-marking white soles with special slip resistant tread. Te materials used to create these are anti-microbial and made to be odor resistant, mostly due to their quick drying design. Tey have many styles, colors and designs to meet most anglers’ needs, so do yourself a favor and try a pair. Te Del Marina deck shoe from Skuze Shoes is top shelf! Visit Skuze Shoes in Pompano Beach, Fla. or check out their website at www.SkuzeShoes.com or email them at info@SkuzeShoes.com and tell them you read about their great shoes in Coastal Angler Magazine. Use promo code Angler 20 and get a 20% discount.
LESSINGER WINS COSTA’S CAPTAINS FOR CLEAN WATER 2024 STEWARD OF THE YEAR AWARD
The fght to protect Florida’s waters rests on the shoulders of the guides, anglers and business owners willing to join the frontlines and use their voice for change.
For the last six years, Captains For Clean Water has partnered with their fellow water warriors at Costa to acknowledge outstanding individuals that serve as stewards for clean water and make an impact in their community.
Tis year’s winner, Capt. Ozzie Lessinger, is a guide, conservationist, and true steward of our environment.
From educating his clients, to hosting fundraisers, to standing up for our waters in Tallahassee, Ozzie always goes above and beyond to spread awareness and make an impact in the fght.
“I can tell you that in my mind, I never feel like I do enough. As a guide and a steward of our water and our water quality issues, it’s so important— whether you’re one of the corporate partners, whether you’re a fsherman, or whether you’re a guide—to please just educate about Captains,” says Lessinger. “Stay informed, and let people know what it’s all about. It really just takes a few minutes to wear the hat and let people know.”
Tank you to Ozzie for all his eforts in spreading awareness of the mission to improve our fshing environments, and for continuing to stand at the frontlines in this fght for clean water!
And a big thank you to the other nominees for their inspiring impact in the efort to restore and protect Florida’s waters! Capt. Lessinger was nominated alongside fellow captains Cody Rubner of Stuart, Fla. and Brandon Cyr of Islamorada, Fla. Tey are both outstanding individuals that also serve as true stewards of clean water and make an undeniable impact in the fght to restore a national treasure.
For more information on how you can help support the ongoing eforts of Captains For Clean Water visit captainsforcleanwater.org.
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THE ORIGINAL SCENTED LURE
By Tracy Patterson
LADY ANGLER LANDS NEW WORLD RECORD BASS
Maguire’s frst work is a compelling, fast read. His style is like a mix of Hemingway with a sardonic blend of Hunter S. Thompson. I couldn’t put it down...
Ben Martin Editor in Chief Coastal Angler Magazine “ ”
Confessions of a Fishaholic, by Thatch Maguire, is a hilarious and irreverent look at one man’s quest to catch fish in spite of life’s annoying interferences. You’ll travel with this awkward adventurer as he risks home and health to pursue his passion for fishing...regardless of the consequences. Anglers of all expertise levels will immediately identify with why his addiction is incurable. This book defines the blurred line between passion and obsession.
Tournament angler Lee Ann Powell recently set a new IGFA world record with a 10 lb. 3 oz. bass caught on 10 lb. test. She was fshing (for fun) with her friend and charter captain Dalton Smith on O.H. Ivie Lake in Texas when they noticed a school of fsh on their livescope. Powell was using a Damiki jig with a 3 inch Fluke dipped in Spike It Chartreuse Cajun Dip N Glo. According Powell, “Once the big bass took the lure the exhausting fght to bring the monster bass to within netting distance required me to constantly adjust and reset the drag with my record catch going deep each time it neared the boat.”
Afer fnally netting it, Powell says they put the fsh in the live well and headed out to fnd a set of certifed scales to weigh it. Te requirements for registering a potential world’s record fsh are stringent and Powell says she almost missed her window/timeline for submitting her catch for authentication by the IGFA.
About the IGFA: Te International Gamefsh Association is a non-pro organization committed to the conservation of gamefsh and the promotion of ethical angling practices through science, education, record keeping and recognition of outstanding accomplishments in the feld of angling.
We salute the IGFA’s decision in January 2014 to create a separate category for female anglers, opening up thousands of categories for new World’s Record opportunities.
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CHOOSING THE CORRECT FISHING LINE
When it comes to spooling up your reels, the options are endless. For some this can be a bit overwhelming. Hopefully in this article I can help you understand what diferent kinds of lines are used for and what line strength is the best choice for you.
Te three main types of lines are monoflament, fuorocarbon and braided lines. Each has its pros and cons in diferent situations. Monoflament line foats, fuorocarbon sinks and most braided lines also foat.
I rarely use monoflament for bass fshing, but it does have its perks for a scenario or two. When throwing big heavy glide baits, I ofen spool my reels with a very strong 25- to 30-lb. monoflament, as it is very strong and much less prone to breaking on the cast when I am casting a large bait. I also ofen use mono for is a short leader when throwing a topwater bait with treble hooks. I attach about a foot of mono leader to the end of my braid, and it is less visible while also foating to keep a topwater working naturally.
Something to note about monoflament is it’s very stretchy, making it hard to drive the hook of many diferent lures into the mouth of a fsh, especially if you’re using straight mono and have a lot of line out. Te more mono you have out equals more stretch.
I use a lot of fuorocarbon in my arsenal
TYLER WOOLCOTT
of bass-fshing set ups. Tis line has virtually no stretch, it is more abrasion resistant than most other lines, and it is also a clearer line than anything else, making it harder for fsh to see. Unless I am fshing around extremely heavy cover, where braided line is needed to pull the fsh out, pretty much every reel
I use has fuorocarbon on it. I use anywhere from 10- to 20-lb. fuoro, depending on water clarity, types of cover, and the type of lure I am fshing. Braid also serves me well in many diferent applications. Having virtually no stretch, being very strong and extremely thin compared to other lines of the same strength, and outcasting every other line made are just a few perks of braid. Te downside of braid is it’s basically tiny thin rope, meaning if you are around clear water fsh can probably see it attached to your lure. In some cases, you will need a leader attached to the end of your braid.
Every single spinning reel I own is spooled with braid, which helps them cast better and operate much smoother than if they were spooled with the other kinds of lines. Typically, I’ll use 10lb. braid and attach a few feet of a fuorocarbon leader in a size of my choice to the end to keep it stealthy. I have 30- to 50-lb. braid on all my topwater treble hook baitcaster rods to make extremely long casts. When fshing around heavy grass and vegetation, I also use braid, typically in 50- to 65-lb. test. Tis strong line allows you to get the fsh out of the mess and into the boat. With your lure being in the grass, you can get away with using a thick braid, as the fsh won’t see your line around the vegetation.
Hopefully this helps you understand the diferent lines better and helps you put a few more fsh in the boat.
Tyler Woolcott is a professional tournament angler and guide. Check out his website at www.tylerwoolcottfshing.com.
September In The Florida Keys:
All To Yourself Paradise
September’s fshery in the Florida Keys can be unpredictable as we transition into autumn at the end of the month. Cooler northern waters will begin to push fsh back into their southern migration, while we maintain our usual summer species.
It’s always a sweeter deal running ofshore when the mahi are still around, giving more opportunities to diversify the fsh box. Tey will begin to phase out throughout the next several weeks, making this month the last month of the year to reliably target them.
Swordfsh and blackfn tuna are also excellent fuel-burn justifcations this month. With fewer boats on the water, the trafc at the Marathon humps will be less chaotic for targeting tuna.
Te reef fshing is always a good option. Te snappers are snapping year-round and seasonal harvest for black and red grouper are still open.
Tis is a great opportunity to dive for lobster as well, as the water will still be warm, but the excitement over opening season has died down. Te beginning of lobster season can turn our waters into an absolute zoo. It’s unnerving to even
By Capt. Quinlyn Haddon
suggest going out during that time and throwing yourself in the mix of that mayhem. Tat hype seems to gravitate mostly towards the mini season in July and the few weeks in August.
Each year when the kids are back in school, the Florida Keys takes a massive hit on tourism. We will experience the slowest time of the year over the next few months.
Although this may be a difcult time for working locals, it’s something to be enjoyed by our visitors. Te prices of accommodations will be as low as they get, restaurants will have ample seating, service will be quick, and best of all, no trafc!
Te furry of summer boaters trailering their rigs down from all over the country will have stopped, making both road and water trafc much more pleasant. Te fshery will experience less pressure, creating a mecca of hungry fsh, for those who are able to get out there.
Being in the middle of hurricane season likely
However, it’s a great time to make an impromptu trip, knowing you won’t have a problem fnding cheaper accommodations and availability for fshing charters.
Hurricane season may seem daunting, but there is more than enough notice ahead of any major storm. Locals are always diligently watching the weather for the frst sign of any potential disturbance and will be able to help you make decisions when booking last minute trips.
While September maybe be our slow season for tourism, that does not apply to our fshery. Come take advantage of having paradise all to yourself.
Capt. Quinlyn Haddon guides with Sweet E’Nuf Charters based out of Marathon, Florida Keys. www.captainquinlyn.com; IG: @captainquinlyn
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There’s no denying their signature shape as they leap from the water. If you don’t see anything else extraordinary the rest of day, you can take solace knowing you’ve witnessed one of nature’s most playful and human-like creatures in their natural habitat.
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STRIPER ANGLER SNAGS RECORD PADDLEFISH
An angler trolling for striped bass hauled in a 127-pound, 6-ounce Arkansas state record paddlefsh on June 15. Te monster fsh came from Beaver Lake in northwest Arkansas, and it crushed the existing record of 118 pounds.
Mike Schleeper inked his name in the record books while trolling brooder minnows, which are large shiners, about 30 feet deep near a point on the 28,000-acre lake. His friend and fshing buddy Tom Mayberry was there to help during the 45-minute fght.
“I’ve been fshing for stripers up here for about 13 years, and I’ve had the chance to catch some stripers over 30 pounds, but this was diferent,” Schleeper said. “It didn’t strip line and stop in surges like big stripers do, he just sort of pulled the rod down and kept going. I couldn’t turn him, so we had to follow him with the trolling motor for about the frst 20 minutes.”
Once Schleeper did manage to sway the fsh in his direction, the fght continued for nearly another half-hour.
“It was a 45-minute fght altogether,” Schleeper said. “I’d thought maybe it was a really big striper, but then we could fnally see it a little bit. It looked like a giant catfsh at frst, but as we got it closer to the boat we realized what it was.”
Te giant paddlefsh had been hooked in one of its pectoral fns incidentally while the anglers were trolling. Snagged fsh ofen don’t count toward state records in many states, but paddlefsh are accepted because these fsh do not bite lures—they eat plankton—and catches on rod-and-reel are almost exclusively the result of snags.
When Schleeper and Mayberry fnally got the fsh to the side of the boat, they ran into a snag of their own.
“Our net wasn’t big enough for the fsh,” Schleeper said. “Tom wrestled with that fsh for a while trying to fgure out a way to get it in the boat. At one point I told him to just cut the line because it wasn’t worth it. Tom was adamant that we needed to get that fsh in and report it.”
Schleeper agreed with Mayberry and they fnally worked a rope through the fsh’s mouth to hoist it aboard.
“As soon as the fsh fell to the bottom of the boat, the hook popped free,”
Schleeper said. “We got really lucky.”
Paddlefsh are the oldest surviving animal species in North America according to fossil records. In fact, paddlefsh predate some dinosaurs (300 million years). Females may spawn only once every 4 to 7 years.
A recent regulation passed by the AGFC allows a limited, permit-based snagging season for paddlefsh in the White River portion of Beaver Lake from the Twin Bridges Access to the Lake Sequoyah Dam April 15-June 15.
Te world-record paddlefsh weighed 164 pounds, 13 ounces. It was caught by Chad Williams at Missouri’s Lake of the Ozarks in March.
For more giant fsh, go to coastalanglermag.com.
