Coastal Angler Magazine | January 2025 | Orlando Edition by Coastal Angler Magazine

WINTER FISHING TIPS

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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, protecting your vessel with proper insurance is not just a choice—it’s a necessity. Explore the reasons why every boat owner should prioritize boat insurance for a worry-free voyage.

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.

Scan to get a quote in as little as 4 minutes

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MAHALO, RODNEY...

By Ben Martin, Editor in Chief

On December 11th at 3:00 p.m. the marine industry lost one of its kindest and most heartfelt supporters. A lifelong supporter of environmental awareness, the love of nature and teaching kids how to !sh, Rodney Smith was the earliest proponent of Florida’s groundbreaking net ban. He was the founder and publisher of the original Coastal Angler Magazine, creator and tireless volunteer of its Hook Kids On Fishing Program. Capt. Rodney Smith spent the better part of his life trying to improve the marine environment and sharing the wonders of the art and sport of !shing.

Rodney’s love and kindness was boundless.

Lifeguard, !shing captain, surfer, author, entrepreneur, and friend to all, Rodney Smith’s time on this earth was well spent helping others and showing love to Mother Nature and the marine environment.

Anyone whoever walked with Rodney would have invariably returned with a bag or pocketful of trash that he picked up along the way and then a erwards meticulously separated for recycling. Anyone whoever disparaged anyone else in Rodney’s presence would have immediately heard something positive about that person from Rodney. at’s just who he was.

Loving father, caring husband and faith driven entrepreneur, Rodney’s life was truly exemplary and saintlike. He will be missed, but he will also surely receive the same pat on the back and heartfelt “Good Job” that he gave to so many others while here.

The Water

Those Who Seek Simplicity & Smooth Performance On The Water

Powered by twins, it runs over 30 knots and cruises efficiently at 20-30 knots. It’s a versatile, no-frills boat focused on rock-solid performance. Ideal for those needing a reliable, easy-to-maintain platform.

Hightlights

It’s a versatile, no-frills boat focused on rock-solid performance. Ideal for those needing a reliable, easy-to-maintain platform.

Whether you’re ﬁshing in a kayak, canoe, or small boat, the ePropulsion eLite 500W redeﬁnes your on-water experience with innovative features and commitment to sustainability. Designed to be the most

and lightweight electric outboard in its class, it is an easy-to-use alternative to small internal combustion engines for enthusiasts worldwide. Max 5.6 miles at half throttle and 3.5 miles at full throttle. Experience the eLite Difference. Go Electric. Go Silent. Go Fishing!

DISCOVER BOATING MIAMI INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 2025

A BOATER’S PARADISE AWAITS

The Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show (DBMIBS) is set to return from February 12–16, 2025, bringing an extraordinary showcase of the marine industry. is annual event continues to draw boating enthusiasts, industry leaders, and newcomers alike, o ering a combination of innovation, and community.

Highlights of the 2025 Edition

Spread across six iconic Miami locations—Miami Beach Convention Center, Pride Park, Herald Plaza, Venetian Marina, Museum Park Marina, and Superyacht Miami at Yacht Haven Grande—DBMIBS provides a multifaceted experience.

e Miami Beach Convention Center and Pride Park will host the latest in marine technology, boating gear, and vessels up to 49’’. On the water, Herald Plaza and Venetian Marina will feature a lineup of vessels, from sleek center consoles to high-performance powerboats.

A Boating Community Experience

e Progressive Boat Show Experience promises an engaging lineup of seminars, boating classes, and the popular AquaZone, an interactive space where attendees can test products and gain hands-on skills. For those looking to elevate their visit, Windward VIP tickets grant access to exclusive lounges, curated dining options, and concierge service.

Digital ticketing ensures a seamless entry process, with water taxis making it easy to explore the show’s sprawling venues. Water taxi tickets are sold separately.

From anglers to luxury yacht a!cionados, the show caters to all corners of the marine world. With its rich blend of exhibits, educational opportunities, and waterfront allure, it remains a must-visit event on the global boating calendar.

For more details and ticket options, visit www.miamiboatshow.com.

Cold Water Winter Fishing for Trout in the Smoky Mountains

By Joe Woody

When winter descends upon the Smoky Mountains, the streams and rivers transform into a serene and picturesque setting. For avid anglers, this season o ers a unique and rewarding opportunity to !sh for trout. Cold water !shing in the Smokies during winter demands preparation, knowledge, and patience, but the solitude and satisfaction of hooking a trout in these crisp conditions make it all worthwhile.

Trout are cold-water !sh, and they remain active during the winter, albeit at a slower pace. eir metabolism decreases as water temperatures drop, making them less aggressive and more selective in their feeding habits. During this season, trout tend to conserve energy by holding in deeper pools or near submerged structures where currents are slow and food is more accessible.

e Smoky Mountains, known for their pristine streams and diverse aquatic habitats, provide excellent winter !shing opportunities. e recent storm damage has not changed that, although access and former topographical structuring may be somewhat altered the !sh have adapted and so will anglers. Rainbow, brown, and brook trout can all be found in the cold, clear waters of this region, with brook trout being particularly prevalent in the higher elevations.

Winter !shing requires careful planning to ensure success and safety. e Smoky Mountains can get bitterly cold in winter. Dressing in layers, including moisturewicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outerwear, is crucial. Gloves and a hat are always a must: Nymphs, midges, and small streamers are excellent choices for winter trout !shing. Patterns like the Zebra Midge, Pheasant Tail, and Woolly Bugger o en prove e ective. Since aquatic insect activity is minimal in winter, imitating small and slowmoving prey is key.

clear, low water conditions. Using light tippets (5x or 6x) and uorocarbon leaders can improve your presentation and increase your chances of a hookup.

Focus on deeper pools and areas with slow-moving water. Dead dri ing nymphs under an indicator or slowly

Winter trout can be extra wary due to the

Townsend, this stream is a favorite among anglers for its healthy populations of rainbow and brown trout.

• Deep Creek: Known for its easy access just outside Bryson City, this area o ers a true remote !shing experience with just a short walk up its trail.

• Abrams Creek: Featuring clear waters and ample trout habitat, Abrams Creek is a reliable option for winter anglers

Winter trout are o en more active during the warmer parts of the day. Plan your trip to coincide with midday or early a ernoon. Low, clear water makes trout more alert to movement and noise. Approach the stream cautiously and keep a low pro!le. As any angler in these parts will tell you, always be mindful of slippery rocks and cold water. Wearing wading boots with good traction and a wading belt is essential.

retrieving a streamer can entice a bite. Pay attention to subtle strikes, as trout in winter o en feed so ly.

e Smoky Mountains are home to numerous streams, many of which are accessible year-round. Some top spots for winter !shing include:

• Little River: With easy access near

Fishing for trout in the Smoky Mountains during winter is a serene and ful!lling experience. e combination of tranquil surroundings, reduced crowds, and the challenge of cold-water angling creates an unforgettable adventure. With the right preparation and approach, you can enjoy the magic of winter !shing and make memories that will last a lifetime.

CHARTER BOOKINGS:

CALL THE CAPTAIN!

By Capt Quinlyn Haddon

Ihave been prompted to cover the topic of booking a charter a!er a recent experience I had that could have easily been avoided.

I was asked to work a charter with a company that I had never shed with before. e charter was booked last minute through a booking agency, that I will not directly mention. e notes of the booking repeatedly and clearly requested a full day o shore trip for yellow n. I went to meet with the captain, and helped him rig up for a tuna trip for the following day.

Yellow n tuna are not prevalent in the Florida Keys, but black n tuna are, so we informed the clients of this as we headed o shore in the morning.

Nearing the end of the trip, with a box full of tuna, the clients asked when we were going to get into the yellow n snapper.

e clients had wanted to sh inshore for yellowtail snapper, but they accidentally paid more for an o shore trip, simply because they used a booking agency and didn’t understand that yellow n and yellowtail were di erent species.

If you are wanting to book a charter, please call captains directly! Charter captains do not want to take you out on the water for a boat ride, we want to customize your day so you get the most out of it. Hearing about your expectations and helping answer your questions is paramount in our planning of your trip.

We do not do this job for the money, and most of us are scraping by. We have respect for what a big expense it is to book a charter. We understand that some groups may have saved up a long time to have this experience only once in their lives, and it is extremely important that we give you the trip you are looking for. We might even tell you to rethink the timing of your trip so you can come when your bucketlist sh is most targetable, something a booking agency knows nothing about. ey might be designed to take your money, but that is not what we are about.

If you nd a charter company you like through a shing booking agency, I would recommend going around them and calling a charter captain directly. Chances are that they have raised their prices to stomach the 30% fee the agency takes from them, and you can save money. Alternatively, they have not done so, and a direct call will put the money into the pocket where it belongs.

Booking agencies help ll the calendars, and for a lot of shermen whose strong suits are on the water, booking charters and advertising can be challenging. Some of the best captains have zero online presence. ere are a few agencies who aren’t as greedy as the one from this particular experience, and who may actually have knowledgeable people assisting you with your booking. However, nothing is going to beat speaking with the captain who you are hiring and sharing your day with.

We aren’t scary pirates or too busy to put in that phone time with you, and we are happy to connect with you before you book your trip. Give us a call!

Capt. Quinlyn Haddon guides with Sweet E’Nuf Charters out of Marathon, Florida Keys - (504) 920-6342. www.captainquinlyn.com; IG: @captainquinlyn

WINTER FISHING: SIZE OVER COLOR FOR SUCCESS T

By Capt. Michael Okruhlik

he question of lure size is a common debate among anglers, and while di erent situations require di erent approaches, one thing is clear: sh don’t read shing articles or watch YouTube videos. ey eat when they want, and as anglers, it’s up to us to adapt. In my experience, adjusting lure size is more important than focusing on color—especially in winter shing for coastal species like trout, red sh, and %ounder.

Size vs. Color

When things aren’t going as planned, many anglers immediately reach for a di erent color. However, I nd size to be the more important factor. Fish are typically feeding on prey of a speci c size, not necessarily a speci c color. In my experience, changing the size of the lure is usually more e ective than changing its color. If size doesn’t produce a bite, I might try changing the style of the lure next.

Changes in Estuaries

As winter approaches, our estuaries undergo several changes: cooler water temperatures, shi!ing forage patterns, less boat tra c, and o!en clearer water. ese changes create two schools of thought about lure size: go bigger or go smaller. Some anglers upsize their lures for the entire season, while others prefer downsizing. Both strategies can work, and I will utilize both methods.

Cooling Water and Fish Behavior

Cold fronts trigger cooling water temperatures and unpredictable sh behavior. Unlike the more consistent feeding patterns of stable weather, sh during early winter can make sh moody, switching between aggressive feeding and total inactivity. Late fall and early winter can be some of the best shing of the year, especially when schools of bait are %ushed out by falling tides. Hungry speckled trout and red sh follow these schools, and I prefer using smaller lures in these active feeding conditions. Fish are typically feeding on smaller prey like shrimp or shad, so a similarly sized lure is o!en the best match.

During these times, I also favor non-natural colors. When bait is abundant, sh can more easily spot a contrasting color, helping them target your lure amid the feeding frenzy. is is di erent from spring shing, where matching the color and size of the bait is key. In the fall and winter, standing out with an eye-catching color can be more e ective.

Clearer Water and Smaller Lures

Another reason for downsizing in winter is clearer water. In some bays, water visibility improves signi cantly during the winter, reaching depths of 6-7 feet of clear water. Fish aren’t accustomed to this level of clarity and can be more cautious. In these conditions, a smaller, less intrusive lure will o!en get more bites. When I can clearly see my lure bouncing along the bottom, a small presentation tends to be more successful.

Conclusion

Winter shing requires %exibility. By focusing on size and action rather than color, and adjusting to factors like water clarity and post-frontal conditions, you’ll increase your chances of success. Fish may be moody, but with the right approach, you can adapt and still catch plenty of sh.

Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures® and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.

Family Owned & Operated for 50

• (407) 678-0507

Academy Sports + Outdoors, East Colonial 11955 E. Colonial Dr. Orlando, FL • Academy Sports + Outdoors, Lee Vista 6640 Eagle Watch Drive Orlando, FL • Academy Sports + Outdoors, Millenia 3557 Gardens Ridge Way Orlando, FL • Academy Sports + Outdoors, Lake Mary 3641 Lake Emma Road Lake Mary FL Bagg’s Produce, Sanford, 2485 Sanford Ave, Sanford, FL 32771 • Boat Tree Marina, 4370 Carraway Place, Sanford, FL 32771,(407) 322-1610, boattreemarina.com • Noble’s Marine Leesburg,Highway 441& Palmetto,Leesburg, FL 34748, noblesmarine.com • Noble’s Marine Crystal River, 1931 NW Highway 19, Crystal River, FL 34428, noblesmarine.com • Mudhole Custom Tackle, 2133 Componet Loop St. 1001, Oviedo, FL 32765, mudhole.com, Highbanks Marina & Camp Resort, 488 W Highbanks Rd, DeBary, FL 32713, campresort.com • Thomas Lumber Company – Orlando, 231 West Gore Street, Orlando, FL 32806, thomaslumber. com • Orlando Outfitters, 2814 Corrine Dr., Orlando, FL 32803 • Bitters Bait & Tackle, Longwood, 165 N. US HWY. 17-92, Longwood, 32750 • Gibson’s Truck World, 3455 S. Orlando Dr., Sanford, Fl.32773 • Owens Fishing & Marine, 935 N. Bay St. Eustis, Fl. 32726 • Avalon Ace Hardware, 14807 E. Colonial Dr., Orlando Fl., 32826 • Richardson’s Fish Camp, Kissimmee, 1550 Scottys Rd, Kissimmee, FL 34744 • Wojo’s Bait & Tackle, St. Cloud, Oak Park Center, 4245 13th St, St Cloud, FL 34769 • West End Trading Co. 202 S. Sanford Ave., Sanford, FL 32771 • Lakeside Bait & Tackle, Tavares, 1000 W Burleigh Blvd, Tavares, FL 32778• Jolly Gator Fish Camp Bar & Grill, 4650 FL-46, Geneva, FL 32732 • Sanford Marina, 531 N. Palmetto Ave., Sanford FL

Seminole Junior Anglers

Seminole Junior Angler Nate Bennett and team fishing partner Brady Biles have had this tournament on their radar for months as the one they wanted to win badly. They practiced a combined 6 days leading up to the Bobby Lane Cup held on Lake Kissimmee at Camp Mack, one of the biggest High School tournaments in Florida this season. With all that practice, a cold front moved through Friday afternoon leading up to the tournament and changed everything they had learned during all that practice. Late Friday, Brady and his dad Mike found a spot they thought might hold good fish. After much discussion, Nate and Brady decided to go all in on that area. Saturday morning, we launched at 6:45 am in 40-degree weather and ran 70 miles per hour to the spot hoping we would get there before someone else. We did…and we never left! Brady and Nate only got 8 bites all day, but they were the bites they needed. The boys fished a 100-yard stretch back and forth relentlessly for 7 hours. Goldfish crackers and Chips Ahoy cookies kept them going while I watched these young men pick off bass one by one. We had 4 fish and about 10 pounds in the boat at 11:05 am with a 2:15 pm weigh in when Brady landed a 6.4-pound lunker.! That’s when the boys thought they had a chance. We culled 2 more times over the next few hours and headed in with a bag of 18 pounds. With a stressful 130 High School boats to weigh in, the boys got to sit in the 1st place hot seat for what felt like an eternity. When we neared the last 4-5 teams to weigh in, we knew there is usually a bag at the end that likes to surprise the crowd…not this time! The boys smoked the field by almost 4lbs, which is crazy.

All four parents talked following the weigh-in. This was the moment when as parents, we knew the boys had earned this win themselves. Growing into young men in the competitive bass fishing world Nate and Brady had proven to everyone their dedication and willingness to grow - it had all been worth it! They wake up at 5am when their buddies were sleeping, drive an hour to the lake, pre-fish 7, 8, 9, and 10 hour days on the water, drive home slap worn out after standing on the deck of a boat and casting hundreds of times. The relentless pursuit of the elusive Florida Bass that never, and I mean never, seems to be able to predict had all been worth it - They won! And they won big. Thousands of dollars in prizes and equipment, plus bragging rights with trophies as big as their smiles too.

The Seminole Junior Anglers will concentrate on the rest of the season moving forward with a handful of tournaments and a little less stress with this win under our belt. SJA fishes Palatka next and January we are back on Lake Okeechobee out of Scott Driver on the north side of the lake.

We couldn’t do it without the parents and our sponsors so please support them if you can. A big thanks to: Coastal Angler Magazine, Mudhole Custom Tackle, Citgo Petroleum, Oakley, Avid Gear, Jeff Bell Real-estate Agent, W.W Gay, Trico Transmissions, CST Fishing Apparel, Mid Florida Carts, Grove Scientific & Engineering, Flynn’s Tree Pros, W.W. Gay Mechanical Contractor, Inc., Hatcher Insurance, Certified Financial Group, SunState Fleetworks, and Nolan Capitol Advisors.

“Spreading Awareness and Acceptance to Au3sm through the Sport of Fishing” www.au%smanglers.org

January signals the spawning season for most of our freshwater targets this month – largemouth bass, black crappie, and American and hickory shad. As water levels drop the minnow hatch floods the river with plenty to eat for the reproducers. Stripers will be around too, but the ones we get here in the St Johns are sunshine bass and as hybrids they’re sterile.

Fish of the Month - American and hickory shad are here! Have you signed up for the Shad and Crappie Derby? Look for anglers targeting shad from Mullet Lake Park all the way upstream into the Econlockhatchee River and Puzzle Lake. Match the minnow hatch – wild minnows are small. Shad will hit crappie jigs, and they love shad darts and small spoons too. Longline troll a little faster than you would for specks. Vary speeds between 1.8 – 2.5 mph both with the

current and against. Let out plenty of line (75-100 feet) out so that the lure is deeper in the water column. The by catch might just be a large sunshine bass!

Male largemouth bass will be competing for spawning areas as the large females stage nearby for the right time to go on the beds. This time of year bass anglers begin the hunt for that trophy fish. Look for beds in shallow, then start fan casting the vicinity - usually the females will be within 100 feet of the beds ready to take rattling crank baits like a Rattle Trap. Plastic worms work well too; all bass eat lizards who steal eggs (hint). Remember to work your soft baits slower than normal with the colder water temperatures. The best soft plastic color in the river is typically blue/black with red or blue flakes.

Join Coastal Angler Orlando on January 18 for Hook’d on Lake Monroe! Registration is Friday January 17th – 6:00 pm at Wild Wild West End Honky Tonk Saloon, 206 South Sanford Avenue.

Start the year off right - go out and catch some fish! The bass are schooling due to the recent cooler weather and are chasing shad while fatting up for the spawn. The high-water conditions in the chain of lakes give the bass access to shallow areas, look for them bedding in 3 feet of water or less. Try chatter baits, bright orange or chrome-blue back rattle traps, Junebug or black with blue tail trick worms, Senko’s or speed worms worked slowly along the deeper Kissimmee grass close to deeper water or ledges. The bigger fish will be staging close to mouth of canals, creeks or either end of the Dead River in the surrounding cover or deeper holes. Try slow trolling a large live wild shiner under a cork or balloon while casting artificial baits down the bank. Lake Harris, Lake Eustis and

their canals as well as Lake Dora, Clear Canal and the Apopka Canal will be the best places to look and hunt for the many waves of bedding fish. With the cold fronts coming every 5 to 7 days, the 2nd and 3rd days after the front arrives will be the best days to fish. January brings opportunities for the biggest bass of the spawning season! If you catch one of these giant females, handle them with care, take a few pics and release them to finish their spawning cycle. Her babies grow up to be trophies. Lakeside Bait and Tackle in Tavares near the Buzzard Beach boat ramp is selling a ton of minnows and says that the Crappie are showing up in numbers and size on Lake Dora, in Lake Eustis and Lake Griffin. Zip jigs, Roadrunner jigs and minnows rigs are working. If you are going to fish for crappies be sure to register and enter your crappie in the 16th Annual Shad & Crappie Derby. Owens Fishing & Marine, Lake Side Bait & Tackle and Nobles Marine are all sign-up locations close to the chain.

Boat Dealers New & Consignment Sales

Boat Dealers New & Consignment

1 - Astor Marine (352) 759-3655 24535 FL-40, Astor, FL 32102 www.astormarine.com

Astor Marine (352) 759-3655

24535 FL-40, Astor FL www.astormarine.com

Sea Tow of Central Florida Lakes (877) 800-1492

6 - Sea Tow of Central Florida Lakes (877) 800-1492 12307 Wedgefield Drive , Grand Island, FL 32735

12307 Wedgefield Dr., Grand Island, FL

AT Trailer (407) 892-1100

CJS Aluminum Inc.

31 - Pyramid Cabinets (407) 947-8499

2 - Nobles Marine (352) 787-5792 437 N Palmetto St, Leesburg, FL 34748 or 1931 N. Hwy 19, Crystal River www.noblesmarine.com

Nobles Marine (352) 787-5792

437 N Palmetto St., Leesburg, FL 1931 N. Hwy 19, Crystal River, FL www.noblesmarine.com

3 - Craig Catamaran (407) 290-8778 4333 Silver Star Rd. #100 Orlando, FL 32808

Craig Catamaran (407) 290-8778

4333 Silver Star Rd. $100 Orlando, FL

4 - Triangle Marine (352) 343-6146 11415 US-441, Tavares, FL 32778 www.trianglemarinecenter.biz

Triangle Marine (352) 343-6146 11415 US-441, Tavares, FL www.trianglemarinecenter.biz

30 - Aamco East Orlando (407) 277-3311 6304 E. Colonial Dr. Orlando FL 32807 Full Service Mechanics

Aamco East Orlando (407) 277-3311

6304 E. Colonial Dr., Orlando, FL Full Service Mechanics

25 - Central Florida Marine (407) 647-6262 1021 N Orlando Ave, Maitland, FL 32751 www.centralfloridamarine.com

Central Florida Marine (407) 647-6262 1021 N. Orlando Ave., Maitland, FL www.centralfloridamarine.com

38 - Orlando Boat Sales (407) 253-7111 3165 N John Young Pkwy, Orlando, FL 32804 www.orlandoboatsales.com

Orlando Boat Sales (407) 253-7111

3165 B. John Young Pkwy., Orlando, FL www.orlandoboatsales.com

24 - Boat Max USA (321) 866-0306 9700 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando FL 32817 www.boatmaxusa.com

Boat Max USA (321) 866-0306

9700 E. Colonial Dr., Orlando, FL www.boatmaxusa.com

46 - Gibson Truck World (407) 321-0660 3455 S. Orlando Dr. Sanford, FL 32773 www.gibsontruckworld.com

Gibson Truck World (407) 321-0660

3455 S. Orlando Dr., Sanford, FL www.gibsontruckworld.com

14 - Boat Tree Marina (407) 322-1610 4370 Carraway Pl, Sanford, FL 32771 www.boattree.com

Boat Tree Marina (407) 322-1610 4370Carraway Pl., Sanford, FL

60 - Next Level Inc.“Florida Marine Customs” (407) 704-5676 • 87 W. Michigan St. Orlando, FL 32806 info@floridamarinecustoms.com

Next Level Inc. “Florida Marine Customs” (407) 704-5676

87 W. Michigan St., Orlando FL info@floridamarinecustoms.com

Boat improvement / Service & Repair Centers / Replacement Parts

36 - All American Marine (407) 855-9988 7024 S Orange Ave, Orlando FL 32809 www.allamericanmarineorlando.com

Boat Improvement / Service & Repair Centers / Replacement Parts

All America Marine (407) 855-9988

35 - All Star Marine (407) 423-9953 28 W Jersey St, Orlando, FL 32806 www.manta.com

7024 S. Orange Ave., Orlando, FL www.allamericanmarineorlando.net

Advanced Marine Services (407) 498-5142

1322 Carolina Ave., St. Cloud, FL advancedmarine.co

29 - Lake Fairview Marina (407) 295-0117 4503 N Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32804 www. Lakefairviewmarina.com

Lake Fairview Marina (407) 295-0117

32 - Portside Marine (407) 249-1124 2730 Forsyth Rd, Orlando, FL 32792 www.portsideorlando.com

4503 N. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL www.lakefairviewmarina.com

Portside Marina (407) 249-1124

2730 Forsyth Rd., Orlando, FL www.portsidemarina.com

23 - Talon Marine Services (407) 542-7600 439 Aulin Ave, Oviedo, FL 32765 www.talonmarineservices.com

Talon Marine Services (407) 542-7600 439 Aulin Ave., Orlando, FL www.talonmarineservices.com

20 - Team Marine Services (407) 260-8326 1350 28th Street, Orlando FL 32805 www.teammarineservices.com

Team Marine Services (407) 260-8236 1350 28th St., Orlando, FL www.teammarineservices.com

19 - Ahoy Marine (407) 323-8373 511 E 25th St, Sanford, FL 32771 www.superpages.com

Ahoy Marine (407) 323-8373

9 - Instant Insurance Agency (352) 735-5560 25833 State Road 46, Sorrento, FL 32776 www.instantinsuranceagency.com

4820 E. Irlo Brunson Memorial Hwy., St Cloud FL www.attrailercenter.com

Marinetec Systems (321) 363-6550 1061 TidenVille School Rd., Winter Garden FL www.marinetecsystems.com

Bait & Tackle Shops / Outfitters / Apparel

15 - American Tackle Co. (800) 516-1750 2133 Component Loop, Suite 1031, Oveido, 32765 www.americantackle.us

Bait & Tackle Shops / Outfitters / Apparel

5 - Lakeside Bait & Tackle (352) 742-3336 1000 W Burleigh Blvd, Tavares, FL 32778

American Tackle Co. (800) 516-1750 2133 Component Loop, Suite 1031, Oviedo, FL www.americantackle.us

7 - Owens Fishing & Marine (352) 357-3030 935 N Bay St, Eustis, FL 32726

11 - Highbanks Marina & Camp Resort (386) 668-4491

Lakeside Bait & Tackle (352) 742-3336 1000 W. Burleigh Blvd., Taveres, FL

488 W Highbanks Rd, DeBary, FL 32713 www.campresort.com

Owens Fishing & Marine (352) 357-3030 935 N. Bay St., Eustis, FL

14 - Boat Tree Marina (407) 322-1610 4370 Carraway Pl, Sanford, FL 32771 www.boattree.com

Highlands Marina & Camp Resort (336) 668-4491

488 W. Highbanks Rd., DeBary, FL www.campresort.com

21 - Bitters Bait & Tackle (407) 699-6619 65 N US Hwy 17 92, Longwood, FL 32750 www.bittersbaitandtackle.com

Boat Tree Marina (407) 322-1610 3370 Carraway Pl., Sanford, FL www.boattree.com

43 - Academy Sports + Outdoors East Colonial 11955 E. Colonial Dr Orlando, FL

Bitters Bait & Tackle (407) 699-6619

65 N. US Hwy 17-92, Longwood, FL www.bittersbaitandtackle.com

Lee Vista 6640 Eagle Watch Drive Orlando, FL Millenia 3557 Gardens Ridge Way Orlando, FL Lake Mary 3641 Lake Emaa Road Lake Mary FL

Academy Sports & Outdoors

East Colonial 11955 E. Colonial Dr., Orlando Lee Vista 6640 Eagle Watch Dr., Orlando Millenia 3557 Gardens Ridge Way, Orlando Lake Mary 3641 Lake Emma Road, Lake Mary

45 - Wojo’s Bait & Tackle (407) 891-1003 Oak Park Center, 4245 13th St, St Cloud, FL 34769

48 - Mud Hole Custom Tackle, Inc. (407) 447-7637 2133 Componet Loop Suite 1001, Oveido, FL 32765 www.mudhole.com

Wojo’s Bait & Tackle (407) 891-1003 Oak Park Center, 4245 13th St., St. Cloud, FL

56 - Orlando Outfitters (407) 896-8220 2814 Corrine Dr., Orlando, FL 32803 www.orlandooutfitters.com

Mud Hole Custom Tackle, Inc. (407) 447-7637 2133 Component Loop Suite 1001, Oviedo, FL www.mudhole.com

Home Improvement Contractors & Service Providers

Orlando Outfitters (407) 896-8220 2814 Corrine Dr., Orlando, FL www.orlandooutfitters.com

26 - DWR Plumbing LLC. (407) 293-3717 6344 All American Blvd, Orlando, FL 32810

27 - Orlando Painting Service (407) 896-0839

Captain Troy Perez (321) 607-2033 capt.troyperez@gmail.com Mosquito Lagoon - Indian River - Port Canaveral

65 Harold Ave, suite B, Winter Park, FL 32789 www.orlandopaintingservice.com

28 - Millennium Electric (407) 420-2001 4340 Edgewater Dr, Orlando, FL 32804 www.millennium-electric.com

Improvement Contractors & Service Providers DWR Plumbing LLC. (407) 293-3717 6344 All American Blvd., Orlando, FL

41 - Water Works Pressure Cleaning & Sealing (407) 376-9526

490 Buck Lake Lane, Geneva, FL 32732 www.jmwaterworksinc.com

Orlando Painting Service (407) 896-0839 65 Harold

451 Fairvilla Road, Orlando, FL 32808 www.codepyramid.com

31 - Pyramid Cabinets (407) 947-8499 451 Fairvilla Road, Orlando, FL 32808 www.codepyramid.com

210 N. Goldenrod Rd., Orlando, FL CF (407) 281-9210 Spacecoast (321) 345-2011 www.cjsaluminum.com

34 - Thomas Lumber Company (407) 841-1250

231 W Gore St, Orlando, FL 32806, www.thomaslumber.com

A&H Storage (407) 678-0507

2500 N. Forsyth Rd., Orlando, FL www.AHStorage.co

49 - Martin Tree Service, Inc. (407) 359-1119 1215 Bob White Trail, Chuluota, FL 32766 www.martintreeserviceinc.com

Thomas Lumber Company (407) 841-1250

231 W. Gore St., Orlando, FL www.thomaslumber.com

50 - Campbell Renovations Inc. (407) 947-0016 285 Campbell Ranch Run, Geneva, FL 32732 www.campbellrenovationsinc.com

51 - Vapor and Company (407) 878-7397 3621 S. Orlando Dr., Sanford, FL 32773 SR 436 Altamonte Springs East SR 50 Orlando www.vaporandco.com

Martin Tree Service, Inc. (407) 359-1119 1215 Bob White Trail, Chuluota, FL www.martintreeservice.com

Campbell Renovations Inc. (407) 947-0015 285 Campbell Ranch Run, Geneva, FL www.campbellrenovationsinc.com

Areas Best Picks for Restaurants

Vapor and Company (407) 878-7397

47 - Jolly Gator Fish Camp Bar & Grill (407) 349-5554

4650 E State Rd 46, Geneva, FL 32732 www.thejollygator.com

3621 S. orlando Dr., Sanford, FL SR 436, Altamonte Springs, FL East SR 50, Orlando, FL www.vaporandco.com

39 - Fish on Fire (407) 812-6881 7937 Daetwyler Dr, Orlando, FL 32812 www.fishonfireorlando.com

Area Best Picks for Restaurants

Jolly Gator Fish Camp Bar & Grill (407) 349-5554

40 - High Tide Harry’s (407) 273-4422 4645 S Semoran Blvd, Orlando, FL 32822 www.hightideharrys.com

4650 S. State Rd. 46, Geneva, FL www.thejollygator.com

Fish on Fire (407) 812-6881 7937Daetwyler Dr., Orlando, FL www.fishonfireorlando.com

33 - Boston’s Fish House (407) 678-2107 Aloma Square Shopping Center, 6860 Aloma Ave, Winter Park, FL 32792 www.bostonsfishhouse.com

High Tide Harry’s (407) 273-4422

17 - St. Johns River Steak & Seafood (407) 878-0980

4645 S. Semoran Blvd., Orlando, FL www.hightideharrys.com

550 N Palmetto Ave, Sanford, FL 32771

37 - The Steer (407) 286-6802 8015 S. Orange Ave., Orlando FL

Boston’s Fish House (407) 678-2107 Aloma Square Shopping Center 6860 Aloma Ave., Winter Park, FL www.bostonsfishhouse.com

22 - Huey Magoo’s (407) 706-6004 www.hueymagoos.com

22 - Huey Magoo’s (407) 706-6004 www.hueymagoos.com 10 Locations – See our ad on Restaurant Page

St. Johns River Steak & Seafood (407) 878-0980

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550 N. Palmetto Ave., Sanford, FL

13 - Camp House Restaurant (407) 915-5401 100 S White Cedar Rd, Sanford, FL 32771 www.camphousebarandgrill.com

13 - Camp House Restaurant (407) 915-5401

100 S White Cedar Rd, Sanford, FL 32771 www.camphousebarandgrill.com

Huey Magoo’s (407) 706-6802 www.hueysmagoos.com

52 - The Deli (407) 332-8800 4360 Carraway Pl, Sanford, FL 32771

10 Locations - See our ad on restaurant page

Camp House Restaurant (407) 915-5401

53 - T J’s Seafood Shack (407) 365-3365

100 S. White Cedar Rd., Sanford, FL www.camphousebarandgrill.com

197 E Mitchell Hammock Rd, Oviedo, FL 32765 12231 E Colonial Dr. #230, Orlando(407) 250-4191 www.tjsseafoodshack.com

The Deli (407) 332-8800 4360 Carraway Pl., Sanford, FL

54 - Oasis On The River (407) 636-6300 4380 Carraway Place, Sanford, FL 32771

56 -

TJ’s Seafood Shack (407) 365-3365

54 - Oasis On The River (407) 636-6300 4380 Carraway Place, Sanford, FL 32771

197 E. Mitchell Hammock Rd., Oviedo, FL 12231 E. Colonial Dr. #230, Orlando, FL www.tjsseafoodshack.com

56 - Celery City Craft (407) 915-5541 114 S. Palmetto Ave., Sanford FL 32771 celerycitycraft.com

Sanford Marina (407) 322-2910

531 N. Palmetto Ave., Sanford FL

55 -West End Trading Co. (407) 322-7475 202 Sanford Ave, Sanford, FL 32771 www.drinkatwestend.com

Celery City Craft (407) 915-5541

114 Palmetto Ave., Sanford, FL www.celerycitycraft.com

West End Trading Co. (407) 322-7475

202 Sanford Ave., Sanford, FL www.drinkatwestend.com

Community Service Providers Community Service Providers

Sea Tow of Central Florida Lakes (877)800-1492

12307 Wedgefield Drive , Grand Island, FL 32735

Always Looking for Captains

Lake, Orange, Western Volusia, Seminole, Osceola, Western Brevard, Eastern Sumter, Eastern Polk

All American Marine

7024 S Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32809

Phone: (407) 855-9988

www.allamericanmarineorlando.com

Service All Outboard Brands – Stern Drives –Canvas – Interiors – Trailer Repair

Lake Fairview Marina

4503 N Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32804

Phone: (407) 295-0117

www. Lakefairviewmarina.com

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Owens Fishing & Marine

935 N Bay St, Eustis, FL 32726

Phone: (352) 357-3030

Saltwater Tackle & Bait - Ballyhoo, Freshwater Tackle - Live Bait - Wild Shiners

Costa - Shimano Top Shelf Dealer

Outboard Service & Boat Parts

Hunting & Snorkeling Accessories Bow Fishing

Triangle Marine 11415 US-441, Tavares, FL 32778

Phone:(352) 343-6146

www.trianglemarinecenter.biz

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9700 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando FL 32817

Phone: (321) 866-0306 www.boatmaxusa.com

Facebook: Amazon Home Health Care

786-280-4899

amazonhhc@gmail.com 227 N. Clyde Av. Kissimmee FL 34741

Pioneer - Glasstream - Aquasport - Stottcraft New Boats Sales - Authorized Yamaha and Suzuki Dealer Parts and Service

Thomas Lumber Company

231 W Gore St, Orlando, FL 32806, Phone: (407) 841-1250 www.thomaslumber.com

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Campbell Renovations Inc.

285 Campbell Ranch Run, Geneva, FL 32732 Phone:(407) 349-0016 Cell: 407-947-5460 www.campbellrenovationsinc.com

State Certified Contractor CBC 1255779

Residential & Commercial New Construction – Renovations – Kitchens –Bathrooms – Additions – Tenant Build Out

Vapor and Company

3621 S. Orlando Dr. Sanford FL 32773 Phone:(407) 878-7397 www.vaporandco.com

Electronic Cigarettes and E-Liquid Experts in Smoking Cessation

Orlando Coastal Angler Magazine Approved! Altamonte Springs, Orlando East SR 50

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or bull rushes. These are the areas anglers have most success with - once you find them it is like fishing in a barrel. Baits of choice for artificial are plastic lizard type baits, watermelon seed color, work it really slow. Lizards eat the eggs and will get eaten. Live wild shiners

large female bass waiting nearby. Females will be within 40 yards of the beds staging in deeper water or near structure. This week when scouting for bass on the Kissimmee Chain, most of them were found in a foot of water, all males with the females not far away

To have the best success catching that trophy sized big bass, fish around structure like Kissimmee grass, reeds,

way to catch crappie is slow trolling with jigs in the deepest water you can find. Always tip jigs with live minnows. Find slight drop-offs on your bottom machine, there should be fish to target on the scope too. Become a Sea Tow Central Florida Lakes member and get peace of mind while fishing and boating. Happy New Year, Captain Randy.

AM 0.4

PM 2.2

PM 0.8

4:28 AM 2.1

AM 0.5

PM 2.2 11:20 PM 0.8

5:27 AM 2.1

AM 0.4 6:22 PM 2.3

12:12 AM 0.8

AM 2.3

PM 0.3

PM 2.5 25Th 1:41 AM 0.6 7:59 AM 2.4 1:55 PM 0.3 8:35 PM 2.6

The bass and crappie spawn has been in full swing since last month, so now is the time to book a fun-filled day of fishing, whether it is filling the cooler with crappies or landing that big bass of a lifetime! January 2025 marks Capt. Angie’s twenty first year as a guide on this beautiful Lake Okeechobee fishery, helping friends and families make lasting memories.

Bass fishing areas to try: the Shoal from Blue Hole on up to the opening that leads into Moonshine Bay. I’m seeing some boats fishing in Moonshine, some days you catch them and other days you can’t hardly buy a bite but it’s an area that’s fishable on windy days. Some areas in the Monkey box and Whidden’s pass as well as Dyess Ditch; Indian Prairie and mostly in Tin House. Both sides of Kings’ bar and River side of Grassy and Eagle Bay close to the hard wall. There are bass being caught over on the east side around J&S if you want to run that far on a low-wind day.

West Lake Toho - The summer bass bite has been improving with the best times to fish in the early morning and late evening. Summer rains have kept the flood control gates open every few days. The water quality is clear. Goblins Cove is still producing good numbers of bass - fishing with live shiners over hydrilla. Fish the boat runs’entrances at sunrise for good top water action. Every morning at sunrise, bass can be found schooling on shad; anywhere there is flow. It usually lasts 30 minutes after sunrise. Big beetle spins and small M-5 Rapalas work best.

popping bug. I have thoroughly enjoyed hearing the popping bug get hit. Daytime anglers are catching good numbers fishing the shallow bedding areas. Bait of choice is crickets fished under a float.Another good area to fish is canals when the water is flowing, trolling will only trigger more bites. Crappie - Anglers are fishing open water for crappie using jigs tipped with a minnow. Anglers trolling jigs are catching good limits of crappie. The key is to find them suspended in open water.

Bluegill - I have been trying a new tactic this summer. A good way to beat the heat.I have been fishing at nighttime in the canals using a fly rod, throwing popping bugs up against the bank. On a good moon phase, the bluegill will crush the

East Lake Toho - Bass fishing on East Lake has been good using artificial baits early morning. The best place to fish will be at the edges of the cattails. Then move to open water as the morning progresses. Most anglers are flipping open water pepper grass matts with good success. Fish the deeper edges of the grasswatermelon seed, Junebug, and red colors work best.

Panfish - Fish open water shell beds with red wigglers. If you are looking to fill the cooler for dinner, the open water shell beds are hard to beat.

For the crappie bite, the areas are somewhat the same but try Dupree bar (north-side); around Sportsman’s; Indian Prairie and the Kissimmee River. Live minnows work best when anchored fishing the river or grass edges and jigs work best in/around grass. Jig colors to try are white; chartreuse; green; pink and orange. Color choice depends greatly on water clarity and depth.

26F 2:20 AM 0.5 8:43 AM 2.5 2:33 PM 0.2 9:13 PM 2.7 27Sa 2:57 AM 0.4 9:24 AM 2.6

The current water level is higher than normal for this time of year but still use caution and respect everyone’s space especially in areas where there is a lot of boat traffic/fishing. To book a bass or crappie trip call 863-228-7263 or log onto Capt. Angie’s website: www.southfloridabassfishing. com where you’ll see up-to-date customer’s catches; rates; hotel accommodations; toll-free number for fishing licenses and etc. Group trips and multiple day trips are available as well as military and one-person trip discounts and a deep hotel discount with the best hotel in town. Capt. Angie’s sponsors: Caymas Boats; Mercury; Lews; Gene Larew; BnM poles; MidSouth Tackle; Pradco Brands; Bullet Weights; Real Magic; Gill; G-Loomis; Rapala and Navionics.

August can be challenging but fun! Challenging due to hot temperatures, possible afternoon thunderstorms and lower water levels. Now is a good time to brush up on your deeper water angling skills whether its fishingin the Kissimmee River or the Canal system. Bass like the deeper, cooler water temperaturestie on those deep diving crank baits. Along with crank baits, a CarolinaRig (c-rig) or a texas-rigged big worm will produce some quality bass.

ROOFTOPS

bass trips which are typical for this time of year. The month of September is when to start thinking of booking your bass fishing trip, as the females start to feed up while they make their way into the shallows for the early spawn time. It’s also the time to book your fall crappie trip too. Good fishing areas: parts of the shoal; Dupree Bar; Dyess ditch and Horse Island and Indian Prairie. Tin house has been solid throughout the season for crappie, bass and bream, work your way up towards 3rd and 2nd point where you’ll find some bass feeding on the bedding bream. A few areas on Kings Bar have been good and the water looks perfect.

In the early morning hours have a hard top water lure tied on like a bang-a-lure or devils horse and aim at the edges working the lure out about 20-25 ft as you go along the rock-bottom in the River and Canals. If you’re fishing the lake, some areas of the lake are showing signs of algae which is normal this

What’s biting now?I’ve been taking bream trips; fingerling catfish and

To book you’re next fun-filled, productive and educational fishing trip call me at 863-228-7263 or log onto my website to check out the customers and their catches; hotel recommendations; guide rates and etc. Capt Angie’s sponsors are: Caymas boats and Toho Marine; Lews; G-Loomis; BnM Poles; MidSouth Tackle; Maui Jim; Gill; Bullet Weights; Road Runner; Real Magic; Tru Turn hooks; Mega Strike; Gene Larew; Pradco Brands and BUFF

Tide Charts Brought To

CENTRAL EAST COAST

JANUARY 2025

DAY TIME HEIGHT

1W 2:40 AM -0.32 L

9:35 AM 2.51 H

3:11 PM 0.1 L

9:40 PM 2.3 H

2TH 3:24 AM -0.31 L

10:17 AM 2.51 H

3:55 PM 0.03 L

10:27 PM 2.31 H

3F 4:11 AM -0.26 L

11:00 AM 2.47 H

4:43 PM -0.05 L

11:18 PM 2.31 H

4SA 5:01 AM -0.16 L

11:45 AM 2.41 H

5:33 PM -0.11 L

5SU 12:12 AM 2.29 H

5:56 AM -0.03 L

12:32 PM 2.32 H

6:29 PM -0.16 L

6M 1:10 AM 2.27 H

6:55 AM 0.09 L

1:23 PM 2.24 H

7:28 PM -0.21 L

7TU 2:12 AM 2.25 H

7:59 AM 0.19 L

2:20 PM 2.16 H

8:30 PM -0.26 L

8W 3:18 AM 2.25 H

9:05 AM 0.24 L

3:23 PM 2.12 H

9:33 PM -0.31 L

9TH 4:25 AM 2.28 H

10:09 AM 0.23 L

4:28 PM 2.12 H

10:34 PM -0.38 L

10F 5:29 AM 2.34 H

11:09 AM 0.18 L

5:32 PM 2.17 H

11:32 PM -0.44 L

Miami Beach, Government Cut

11SA 6:28 AM 2.4 H

12:06 PM 0.11 L

6:31 PM 2.24 H

12SU 12:27 AM -0.49 L

7:21 AM 2.46 H

12:59 PM 0.03 L

7:25 PM 2.3 H

13M 1:18 AM -0.51 L

8:09 AM 2.49 H

1:49 PM -0.03 L

8:15 PM 2.33 H

14TU 2:07 AM -0.5 L

8:54 AM 2.49 H

2:36 PM -0.08 L

9:01 PM 2.32 H

15W 2:53 AM -0.43 L

9:36 AM 2.45 H

3:21 PM -0.1 L

9:46 PM 2.28 H

16TH 3:37 AM -0.33 L

10:15 AM 2.38 H

4:05 PM -0.1 L

10:29 PM 2.21 H

17F 4:20 AM -0.19 L

10:53 AM 2.28 H

4:47 PM -0.07 L

11:11 PM 2.12 H

18SA 5:03 AM -0.04 L

11:29 AM 2.16 H

5:30 PM -0.03 L

11:53 PM 2.03 H

19SU 5:46 AM 0.12 L

12:06 PM 2.03 H

6:12 PM 0.02 L

20M 12:37 AM 1.93 H

6:31 AM 0.27 L

12:44 PM 1.91 H

6:57 PM 0.07 L

21TU 1:24 AM 1.85 H

7:20 AM 0.4 L

1:27 PM 1.8 H

7:46 PM 0.11 L

22W 2:17 AM 1.79 H

8:14 AM 0.48 L

2:15 PM 1.73 H

8:39 PM 0.12 L

23TH 3:15 AM 1.77 H

9:12 AM 0.51 L

3:11 PM 1.69 H

9:34 PM 0.09 L

24F 4:16 AM 1.79 H

10:09 AM 0.49 L

4:12 PM 1.7 H

10:28 PM 0.01 L

25SA 5:16 AM 1.88 H

11:03 AM 0.42 L

5:13 PM 1.77 H

11:20 PM -0.11 L

26SU 6:11 AM 2 H

11:53 AM 0.31 L

6:09 PM 1.88 H

27M 12:08 AM -0.25 L

7:00 AM 2.15 H

12:39 PM 0.17 L

7:01 PM 2.02 H

28TU 12:54 AM -0.38 L

7:46 AM 2.29 H

1:24 PM 0.02 L

7:50 PM 2.16 H

29W 1:39 AM -0.48 L

8:29 AM 2.4 H

2:08 PM -0.14 L

8:38 PM 2.28 H

30TH 2:24 AM -0.54 L

9:11 AM 2.47 H

2:51 PM -0.29 L

9:25 PM 2.38 H

31F 3:09 AM -0.54 L

9:53 AM 2.5 H

3:36 PM -0.42 L

10:13 PM 2.43 H

SEBASTIAN

I hope everyone’s holidays were awesome and safe! Thank you to everyone who helped me out this past year. Without our fishing community being so friendly to one another at the port, fishing would be more difficult. Part of doing well out here is knowing where they are chewing and sometimes relying on the help from fellow captains.

The request to have these reports in a month ahead of time makes it difficult to give an exact forecast. If I have been off, I am sorry. I try my best to go by what has been running, what should be running and what was running a year ago to produce the best reports for offshore Port Canaveral.

Besides the weather being the biggest factor in January, fishing

January is typically the coldest time of the year but the sight fishing on the flats is still good. After a cold front, sunny clear days can have some of the finest flats fishing there is even if it is in the 30s. The fish are out in the open trying to soak up the sun and they seem to be hungry. The grass flats have diminished, so you should be able to see the fish well. You can have days where you can catch 20-30 fish a day or even more. The only drawback is the fish do not fight as well. A lot of times the trout are in the holes, the hole could be 3’-5’ deep right off a 1’ flat. The holes are usually a softer bottom which the fish like more. Bouncing jigs really slow off the bottom will catch the redfish, trout and black drum. I use 8# braid tied to 20# fluorocarbon leaders. The colder it gets, the cleaner the water becomes. On calm days the fish will

is good when you can get out front. The king run should continue to do well at the reefs and pelican flats. This is also the time the sailfish and wahoo get a little better for us. We do not have the run that down south gets but it is normally decent if you can target them. I looked at my pictures from last year and I remembered we had a few good days of mahi-mahi too.

Please be sure to double-check all the regulations. They are constantly changing, and it is typical the law enforcement officers on the water do not know the rules themselves. If the wind allows you to at least fish the beach, you may come across sea trout, whiting and croakers to keep you and the kids occupied.

Take advantage of the few good days we are going to see this month - get out there and kill a few fish…The Atlantic Ocean is waiting for you, good luck! I look forward to an impressive year and I hope y’all do too.

be out in the open flats. On windier days the fish will try to get out of the muddy water and be on the leeward side of an island or point.

The bigger trout are more fragile this time of the year and I use lures instead of bait so not to gut hook them. The water level is lower and tends to school up the black drum and redfish. Big schools of 100 fish or more are not uncommon to see. Most fish are on the drop offs of large flats or on a flat that has a big depression in it with grass around the sand hole.

Troy’s tip of the month: I use more lures this time of year, but the fish are more aggressive. I like Wyze Guyz paddle tails in pearl or Fuego color with Mission Fishin 1/8 ounce white or glow jig head. Any color of Mirrodines work well, I like orange and black. Orange Mirrodines also work well fishing small sharks on the flats without steel leaders. Spanish Mackerel love Mirrodine lures too, I prefer them now over jigs.

Wednesday January 1 - Happy New Year to all our loyal readers, we hope you have a wonderful start to 2025. The 16th Annual Shad and Crappie Derby continues! This is a catch/ photo/release tournament. Check our website or the current issue of Orlando Coastal Angler Magazine to find a sign-up location near you. With over 25 locations in Orange, Seminole, Lake or Osceola Counties there is sure to be one close to your home or where you buy your minnows or get bait. FREE to enter and fish, adult division and youth divisions. Monthly prizes for the largest fish of the month and grand prizes for the overall winners in each division. Over $5000 in prizes to give away to our lucky anglers. The Derby continues until the last day in February, fish as much as you want and enter as many fish as you want, spread the word and tell 5 of your angling friends!

Friday, Saturday January 17-18, – 6th annual ‘Get Hooked on Lake Monroe’ Fishing Tournament and Seafood Festival. Free to Enter - $10K in Prizes! You can also enter the same fish in this season’s 16th Annual CF Shad and Crappie Derby! Live music, youth anglers can register for the Hook Kids on Fishing Event on Sunday, Seafood, Vendors and More. Contact Dom Maresco at West End Trading Company, 202 S. Sanford Ave – www. drinkatwestend.com, EC@ drinkatwestend.com

Sunday January 19 –10 am till Noon the JAE (Junior Angler Education) volunteers will conducting a “Hook Kids on Fishing” clinic hosted at Fort Mellon Park in Sanford. Registration and check-

in start at 10 am, event will last about 75 minutes. Kids can pre-register at the “Hook’d on Lake Monroe” on Saturday. Kids between 4 and 12 yrs old will visit 5 stations learning about Boating Safety, Tackle, Handling and care of your catch, Hook tying and casting. All kids must have an adult present with them. All anglers will get a new rod and reel when clinic is complete, kids can fish on site after event is complete. We are looking for volunteers to help with set-up & break-down and learning station teachers. Contact Capt. Tom Van Horn or Phil Wolf at 407790-9515 to volunteer and get more info.

Friday, Saturday, Sunday February 7-9 - Annual Berkeley Labaw Memorial Speck Tournament, hosted at Highland Park Fish Camp. Mandatory Captains meeting at Highland Park Fish Camp at 5 pm on Friday the 7th. The tournament days are Saturday and Sunday. The top 10 boats will be in payout, over $33,000 was paid this past year. 2 anglers per team, $160 entry fee before February 1st. for more info visit the website at BerkeleyLawtournament. net or email BLannaulTournament@ gmail.com or call the Tournament Director Donnie McCormick at 386566-3228

If you have an event or meeting you would like included in the “What’s Hitting Around Town” column, send your details to: Phil Wolf phillip@ coastalanglermagazine. com. Deadline for inclusion is the 10th of the preceding month.

Seminole Jr Anglers Brady Biles and Nate Bennett win the “Bobby Lane Cup” High School Bass Tourney on Lk. Kissimmee with 18 plus lbs., including a 6.4 lb. kicker!! Congrats

Little “B” with a pair of “Biggins” from the

Our own Forecast writer Capt. Troy Perez with a “Monster” snook he caught at Port Canaveral Nate and Joey Bloom, winners of the “Black Friday” Open event on Harris Chain with over 25 lbs.

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GULF FISHING! Wintertime

If you’re looking for an unforgettable start to a 2025 adventure, Islamorada is the place to be. Known as the “Sport!shing Capital of the World,” this gem in the Florida Keys o ers easy access to the Gulf of Mexico, where the waters are packed with some of the most exciting !sh around: cobia and permit.

Cobia are a favorite for good reason. ese !sh are curious, strong, and put up one heck of a !ght. You’ll o en !nd them hanging out near wrecks, buoys, or even %oating debris, and when they bite, you’ll know it. ey can grow up to 60 pounds, so get ready for a battle when one hits your line. ey also make excellent table fare! We are coming up to the best months to target cobia, so de!nitely keep this species in mind when booking a charter.

Permit !shing is next-level stu . ese sleek, silver beauties are as smart as they are strong, making them a bucket-list catch for many anglers. ey love to hang around wrecks and %ats, and they’re picky eaters. ey love crustaceans, but o en get spooked so your casts must be close to perfect. e real thrill of !shing for permit is in the chase. Spotting a permit tailing in the gulf waters, casting just right, and then feeling that line go tight is pure adrenaline. ey’ll test your patience and your skill, but the payo is worth it.

For the ultimate Gulf !shing experience in Islamorada, check out Bean Sport!shing. Capt. Bean specializes in targeting cobia and permit, ensuring a day on the water you’ll never forget. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a !rst-time angler, his expertise and passion for !shing will make your trip both exciting and successful.

To book a charter, visit www.beansport shing.com. You can also nd Capt. Bean on Instagram @bean_sport shing.

THE NEW YEAR BRINGS NEW OPPORTUNITY

Tim Barefoot

As winter deepens, cooler waters push more !sh o the beaches and toward the warmer edges of the Gulf Stream. With grouper and snapper now o -limits due to regulations, it’s time to shi our focus to productive species still on the table—trigger!sh, vermilion snapper (beeliners), and seabass. For those looking to venture even deeper, deepdropping remains an exciting option.

e December full moon o en marks a turning point in !shing. Grouper and speckled trout seasons wind down, leaving anglers to adapt to what the regulatory environment allows. Fortunately, the stacks of triggers, beeliners, and pelagics in deeper waters o er excellent opportunities. Start your search around the 150-foot mark and use your !sh!nder to locate promising spots.

Tools of the Trade

For precision !shing, modern tools like spot-lock trolling motors—such as the Rhodan or Minn Kota—are game changers. ese motors allow you to hover directly over schools of !sh with ease. However, they can be limited when deploying a kite, as the wind necessary for kite !shing can drain trolling motor batteries quickly. at’s

where anchoring, a classic yet e ective technique, comes into play.

Yes, anchoring may feel like a step back for those spoiled by spot-lock motors, but it’s a reliable method for staying on productive marks without straining batteries. Once anchored, consider adding a kite to your !shing arsenal. Kites are particularly e ective for enticing leader-shy species like yellow!n tuna and wahoo. When properly deployed, they minimize visible leader material in the water, o en resulting in immediate strikes.

Teamwork and Preparation

provide hardy, versatile bait. Supplement your live bait with cast-netted !sh to use as live chum or cut into chunks.

A sabiki rig is another indispensable tool. Jigging up live bait at your !shing spot o en produces exactly what predatory species are feeding on. Don’t hesitate to use small snapper, grunts, or other bait!sh you catch with a sabiki as o erings on your light line or kite. Wahoo, for example, have been known to eat everything from full-sized grunts to snapper. Frozen or fresh Spanish mackerel also make excellent bait for wahoo and tuna.

Successful kite !shing requires teamwork. Assign one crew member to manage the kite and bait while others focus on !lling the cooler with trigger!sh and snapper. Proper setup is essential. Bring live bait from inshore or nearshore waters; cigar minnows, sardines, pin!sh, and menhaden are excellent choices. A pin!sh trap can also

The

Experience Fishing during this time of year is about more than just !lling your cooler; it’s about enjoying the process and making memories. Whether you’re targeting bottom-dwellers like trigger!sh or keeping a light line out for the chance at a wahoo or tuna, the key is to stay adaptable and prepared. As always, take the kids along and capture plenty of videos of your adventures. Fishing is more than just a hobby— it’s a way of life.

For more from Tim Barefoot, visit barefootcatsandtackle.com and check out his YouTube channel.

Junior Angler Breaks World Record with Massive Payara

At just six years old, Nathan “Bibil” Barreto is already making waves in the angling world! On July 8, 2024, while !shing Brazil’s iconic Juruena River, Nathan landed an incredible 11.79-kg (26-lb) payara. is catch shattered the IGFA Men’s Smallfry World Record for the species.

Nathan hooked the record-setting payara using cut bait, showcasing his growing skills as an angler. A er verifying the weight on a certi!ed scale, he ensured the safe release of this magni!cent !sh. Nathan’s actions not only highlighted his talent but also demonstrated that conservation is a value no angler is too young to embrace.

What Are Smallfry World Records?

e International Game Fish Association (IGFA) has established guidelines for Smallfry World Records to encourage young anglers. Here’s what you need to know:

• Species: Records are maintained for the heaviest !sh of any eligible species.

• Age: Categories exist for male and female anglers aged 10 years and under.

• Weight: Fish do not need to be weighed on land, as long as the weight is veri!ed appropriately.

• L ine Class: Records are recognized for all line and tippet classes covered under IGFA rules.

• Other Rules: All IGFA International Angling Rules apply, except for the standard weighing requirement.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Encouraging young anglers to aim for world record catches—or simply to submit outstanding catches for consideration—o ers a fantastic opportunity to foster a love of !shing. e IGFA’s Smallfry division plays a vital role in promoting the sport among young enthusiasts.

Taking a kid !shing doesn’t just teach them valuable skills—it can improve their lives and create unforgettable memories. Who knows? You might even help them reel in a world record!

For more information on the IGFA Smallfry records division, visit www.IGFA.com.

Braid vs. Monoﬁlament Fishing Line: Which Is Best?

Choosing the right !shing line is crucial for success on the water. Two popular options— braided and mono!lament lines—o er distinct advantages, and your choice o en depends on your !shing style, target species, and conditions. Let’s compare their strengths and weaknesses to help you decide.

Braided line stands out for its high strength-todiameter ratio. Its thin pro!le allows for less drag and greater line capacity on reels, making it ideal for deep-water !shing. For instance, a 30-pound braid can match the diameter of an 8-pound mono!lament. Mono!lament, while thicker, provides added durability and is o en preferred in situations requiring extra shock absorption, such as battling !sh with sudden, strong runs.

Braid has minimal stretch, giving it superior sensitivity. is makes it perfect for techniques like jigging or bottom !shing, where detecting subtle bites is crucial. It also enhances hook-setting power. On the other hand, mono!lament’s stretch acts as a cushion during hard strikes, reducing the risk of breakage.

Mono!lament generally o ers better abrasion resistance, making it a top choice in areas with rocks or heavy cover. However, it is prone to UV damage over time, which can weaken the line.

Braid is more resistant to UV exposure but can fray easily when rubbed against rough surfaces.

Braided line’s thin diameter and lack of stretch give it an edge for long-distance casting, especially in open water. However, mono!lament’s low visibility underwater makes it advantageous for targeting skittish !sh in clear water. To counter braid’s visibility, many anglers use a uorocarbon leader.

e choice between braid and mono depends on your needs. Braid excels in strength, sensitivity, and casting, while mono shines in shock absorption, abrasion resistance, and stealth. Many anglers carry both to adapt to various scenarios or use a braid mainline with a mono or uorocarbon leader for versatility.

Ultimately, knowing when to use each type can make all the di erence in your !shing success.

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