Coastal Angler Magazine | February 2025 | Palm Beach & Fort Lauderdale Area Edition
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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.
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ALERT! LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD!
It looks like our friends at NOAA are at it again. !is time releasing its Amendment 59 on January 14 to the management plan of the SnapperGrouper Fishery of the South Atlantic with its recommendation to completely close down bottom shing for three months each year to protect what they believe is an over shed snapper and grouper population.
!ere has been quite a bit of confusion and concern since NOAA released its radical view. A depleted red snapper stock does not seem to be supported by current stock data, but rather by admittedly awed and outdated data that continues to be used to support the need for closures. Anglers have categorically and unanimously rejected this thesis based on NOAA’s admittedly awed data.
NOAA’s position is de nitely not supported by Florida’s Fish & Wildlife Commission (FWC), whose Chairman Rodney Barreto states, “Atlantic red snapper is truly at a crossroads. !e State of Florida has proven time and time again that it understands our shermen and sheries better and how to be responsible stewards of our sheries while maintaining access for the people. Our shermen and sheries deserve better, and FWC will ght on multiple fronts to li$ up our anglers and communities and end this federal bureaucratic nonsense.”
By Ben Martin, Editor in Chief
During the proposed closures of Amendment 59, all recreational hookand-line shing (including trolling) would be prohibited from December through February each year in federal waters from Cape Canaveral to the Florida / Georgia border. !e 55 species to be closed include snappers, groupers, jacks, sea basses, porgies and trigger sh, as well as hog sh, tile sh and grunts.
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NOAA Fisheries notes that the proposed bottom shing closure is projected to yield a recreational harvest season for Atlantic red snapper of ve to nine days per year, up from a single day in 2024 and two days in 2023.
“A three-month bottom shing closure for 55 species of reef sh in exchange for ve to nine days of red snapper season is not a good trade,” said Martha Guyas, Southeast Fisheries Policy Director for the American Sport shing Associatitom (ASA). “Given NOAA Fisheries’ recognition that red snapper is no longer over shed or undergoing over shing, an increase in the recreational season is certainly warranted. However, it is absurd to simultaneously propose drastic closures.”
In Amendment 59, NOAA Fisheries additionally recommends changing how over shing is measured for red snapper in recognition of the growth of the shery and recent above average recruitment.
While the ASA says that removing the “over shed” and “undergoing over shing” designations for red snapper is a positive step, NOAA Fisheries’ proposed bottom shing closure is based on notoriously unreliable estimates of sh released by recreational anglers.
“!e American Sport shing Association is deeply disappointed to see NOAA Fisheries propose this drastic action, which may cause irreparable economic damage to the coastal communities and businesses that rely on recreational shing, as well as recreational shing manufacturers and suppliers across the country,” added Guyas.
A bill by Florida Congressman John Rutherford and Senator Rick Scott was introduced on January 16 in Congress to remove NOAA’s authority on these matters based on NOAA’s awed data. !e bill if passed would require that the issue of a closure would be postponed until more reliable data can be provided. It appears that NOAA’s rush to establish the three-month closure was motivated by a change of administration in Washington. !is move represents politics at its worst and we salute Senators Rutherford and Scott for their timely e ort to prevent this backroom move by NOAA.
What’s at stake here is nothing short of recreational anglers losing their right to sh vis-a-vis the federal government’s incursion into state shery issues, and unless we come together in opposition to these extreme regulations we will have allowed a group of non-anglers to eliminate our right to sh.
Let your voice be heard! Your voice, your opinion is needed if this amendment is to be defeated. !e next opportunities for voicing your opposition to this proposal in person and exercising your right to protest governmental decisions that you disagree with will be held at the following locations:
• February 5, 2025, 4-8 p.m.
Hilton Garden Inn Charleston Airport 5265 International Blvd., North Charleston, SC 29418; 843-308-9330
• February 6, 2025; 4-8 p.m.
!e Crystal Coast Civic Center 3505 Arendell St., Morehead City, NC 28557; 252-247-3883
Hilton Cocoa Beach 1550 N. Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach, FL 32931; 321-613-9023
• March 5, 2025; 1 p.m. presentation/4 p.m. public comment Villa By the Sea 1175 Beachview Drive N., Jekyll Island, GA 31527; 912-635-2521
Public comments can also be submitted online on or before March 17. To submit yours, visit www.federalregister.gov and search for document number 2025-00552.
FindingTroutBrown in the Great Smoky Mountains
By David Knapp
Ever since I was young, the legendary big brown trout of the Smokies have been calling to me. I remember my early encounters with them like it was yesterday. That was over 30 years ago. A lot has changed with fishing in the Park since then, but there are still plenty of large brown trout to be caught.
While legendary Abrams Creek no longer seems to contain brown trout, Little River on the Tennessee side, and the Oconaluftee River, Deep Creek, and Hazel Creek on the North Carolina side are still prime brown trout waters. There are plenty of others too if you’re into exploring.
The spring hatches from late February through
May into early June are as good a time as any to try and catch a big brown. Of course, what better way to catch a big fish than on a dry fly? My first quality brown trout all those many years ago was somewhere on lower Little River downstream of the Sinks. It fell for a large yellow Stimulator that undoubtedly looked a lot like the golden stoneflies that were hatching. Now, the draw of potentially catching a giant on a dry fly keeps me coming back to fish the spring hatches such as the Quill Gordons and little Yellow Sallies.
While catching a big brown on a dry fly is the holy grail, the more realistic approach for fly anglers is to nymph or fish streamers. Big stonefly nymphs
are a favorite, but large brown trout can be caught on smaller patterns like pheasant tail nymphs as well. The key is getting the flies to the fish. That requires either tungsten beads or split shot or both.
For streamer anglers, Smoky Mountain brown trout eat sculpins and other bait fish, smaller trout, and crawdads. Just remember that Park regulations require single hook artificial lures and flies only, so no multi-hook articulated streamers. I generally prefer to fish weighted streamers on a floating line, but there are scenarios where sink tip lines can be helpful as well.
Sight fishing is often the best way to catch a trophy simply because it significantly ups your odds if you are fishing over a large fish. While there are decent numbers of big browns around, simply blind casting will result in lots of wasted casts. When sight fishing, all of your casts are productive as long as you don’t spook the fish.
Speaking of spooking fish, Smoky Mountain brown trout are notoriously skittish. Dress in earth tones to blend in with your surroundings, move softly and methodically, and limit unnecessary casting if you hope to find a trophy brown trout. Finally, don’t expect to just show up and catch a big one your first time out. These large brown trout can be difficult, requiring lots of patience. As I always say, you have to put your time in on the water. When you do catch one of these special fish, release them for the next angler to enjoy.
David Knapp is a fly fishing guide who owns Trout Zone Anglers, LLC, covering waters in middle and east Tennessee and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Learn more at www.troutzoneanglers.com.
REDFISH
A GREAT YEAR-ROUND FISH TO TARGET
Red sh, also known as red drum, are a favorite among anglers for their adaptability, ght, and availability throughout the year. Whether you’re shing along the Gulf Coast or the Atlantic seaboard, red sh provide anglers with a rewarding and exciting experience, no matter the season.
One of the reasons red sh are so popular is their widespread distribution. !ey inhabit coastal waters from Texas to Florida and as far north as Massachusetts. !eir adaptability to di erent environments, including shallow ats, brackish estuaries, and deeper o shore waters, ensures that anglers can nd them almost anywhere. !is accessibility makes them an ideal target for anglers of all skill levels, whether you’re shing from a kayak, wading, or casting from a boat.
FISHING IS BETTER IN A C-HAWK
Red sh exhibit predictable seasonal behaviors, making them easier to target year-round. In the spring and summer, they o$en frequent shallow ats and grass beds, where they can be seen tailing as they feed on crabs and shrimp. During the fall, red sh school up in larger numbers, o$en forming massive “bull red” gatherings in preparation for spawning. Winter months see them moving into deeper, warmer waters, such as rivers and channels, but they remain highly catchable with the right approach. Understanding these seasonal patterns allows anglers to adjust their strategies and consistently nd success. Another reason red sh are so appealing is the variety of techniques that can be used to target them. Sight shing on shallow ats with arti cial lures or ies is an exhilarating experience, requiring precision and patience. For those who prefer bait shing, cut mullet, live shrimp, or blue crabs are irresistible to red sh. Anglers can also troll or jig for red sh in deeper waters, particularly during the winter months. !is versatility ensures that red sh shing never gets monotonous.
Red sh are renowned for their tenacity and strength, o ering anglers an adrenaline-pumping ght. Even smaller red sh, o$en referred to as “puppy drum,” put up a spirited battle on light tackle. Larger specimens, or “bull reds,” can test the skills and endurance of even the most experienced anglers. !eir powerful runs and head-shaking resistance make every hookup a memorable experience.
While many anglers practice catch-and-release, particularly with larger red sh, smaller slot-sized red sh make for excellent table fare. !eir mild, aky meat is perfect for a variety of preparations, from blackened llets to sh tacos. !is dual appeal—as both a sport sh and a food sh—adds to their year-round popularity.
Red sh populations are thriving thanks to successful conservation e orts. Strict regulations, such as slot limits and bag restrictions, have helped maintain healthy stocks. Anglers targeting red sh can do so with con dence, knowing that their e orts support sustainable shing practices.
Red sh o er a unique combination of accessibility, adaptability, and excitement, making them a top-tier choice for anglers year-round. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, targeting red sh provides an opportunity to hone your skills, enjoy thrilling battles, and, if desired, bring home a delicious meal. With their consistent availability and dynamic shing opportunities, it’s no wonder red sh remain a beloved species among anglers everywhere.
GREGG LEWIS NAMED FWC’S FIRST-EVER CATCH A FLORIDA MEMORY GRAND SLAM MASTER ANGLER
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) proudly celebrates Gregg Lewis, the !rst Grand Slam Master Angler in the Catch a Florida Memory program! is journey began in 2020 when Lewis joined FWC’s angler recognition program. Over four years, he systematically completed all eight Grand Slams for adults, showcasing unmatched dedication and passion for !shing.
Lewis emphasized the importance of research, stating, “You’ve got to know where the best chance of catching the !sh is, what time of year, what phase of the moon, what water conditions, etc.” Some slams were quick successes, while others, like the Shoreline Grand Slam, took years. A er multiple attempts since 2021, Lewis !nally achieved it in 2024 with a perfectly timed plan, three !shing locations, and help from Capt. Brandon Simon. e Reef and Rubble and Near Shore Grand Slams required intricate planning across multiple locations. Traveling from Destin to Jacksonville and back to the Panhandle in 48 hours, Lewis’ determination paid o$. His !nal catch, an elusive tripletail in Apalachicola, marked the completion of his incredible journey.
Achieving this status required persistence and passion. Lewis shared, “It really helps that I was retired.” Beyond recognition, the experience enriched his angling skills and appreciation for Florida’s waters.
Jessica McCawley, Division Director of Marine Fisheries Management, praised Lewis, highlighting how the program promotes sustainable !shing. Lewis’ milestone inspires others to embark on their own !shing adventures.
WHY YOU SHOULD NEVER BRING GLASS BOTTLES ON BOATS
No glass bottles allowed! Bringing glass bottles on boats might seem harmless, but it poses serious risks to safety and the environment. Whether you’re heading out for a day of !shing or a leisurely cruise, leaving glass behind is one of the simplest ways to ensure a safe and enjoyable outing.
Boats are inherently unstable environments due to constant motion from waves and wind. Glass bottles can easily fall and shatter, creating sharp, hazardous fragments. ese shards can cause injuries to passengers, especially in a barefoot-friendly boating atmosphere. You can think you’ve cleaned up all the shards and small broken glass fragments and the days, even weeks later you can !nd yourself trying to remove a piece of glass from your or someone else’s foot. Cleaning up glass on a rocking boat is also a major pain in the arse.
THATCH MAGUIRE, EDITOR AT LARGE
If glass bottles accidentally end up overboard, and they o en do, they can have long-lasting e$ects on aquatic ecosystems. Broken glass can harm marine life and disrupt
habitats, while intact bottles may linger for centuries, contributing to waterway pollution.
Glass is far less durable than alternatives like aluminum or plastic. In a boating setting, where space is o en limited, and items are jostled, the risk of breakage is high. Replacing glass with reusable bottles or cans not only eliminates this risk but also reduces waste.
For a safer and ecofriendlier boating experience, opt for non-glass alternatives. A variety of durable, reusable options, such as stainless-steel bottles or lightweight plastic containers, are designed to withstand the rigors of life on the water. Leave the glass at home and enjoy your time on the water without the worry of injury or environmental harm or really pissing o$ the boat owner. Put very simply “don’t bring glass on my or anyone else’s boat!
Fish On Wins 88th Silver Sailfish Derby
The coldest weather Florida had experienced in nearly 2 years swept over the paradise peninsula in early January, falling on the exact day a sold out 50 boat fleet kicked off the crown jewel of sportfishing, the Silver Sailfish Derby. Competitors were greeted with temperatures in the low 40s, and gusting North West winds stirring up a productive bite offshore. These are ideal conditions for flying kites and presenting live baits when anglers are seeking to tangle with the magnificent wonder that is the Atlantic Sailfish. Some of the finest captains and crews were represented once again fishing off the Palm Beaches, braving seas 5 to 7 ft. with an occasional 9-footer in full foul weather gear, feeling sailfish season upon them. Several lead changes occurred throughout the 2-Day tournament as multiple fish hooked up at the same time aided efforts to quickly climb the leaderboard. When the 88th running of The World’s Oldest Sailfish Tournament was all said and done, Fish On finished on top.
The Silver Sailfish Derby has been hosted by the West Palm Beach Fishing Club (WPBFC) since 1935 and continues to be the organization’s marquee event. A total of 293 sailfish were released over the duration of the 2025 Derby. The tournament was headquartered out of Sailfish Marina on Palm Beach Shores where the 54’ Sculley, Mallard, is berthed. With Captain Randy Yates at the helm the crew was off to a hot start. The Mallard recorded 10 sailfish releases by the conclusion of Day 1 and took Top Daily Boat honors. They would ultimately finish 3rd Place Overall recording 1 additional release on Day 2, bringing their tournament total to 11 releases.
Captain Matt Collins and the Hydrosphere, a 57’ Dean Johnson, finished with 11 releases as well for a 4th Place Overall finish, beat out by the Mallard on time-of-release of their last sailfish, the tie breaking criteria for Derby boats. While the captain certainly deserves credit running the boat, having exceptional anglers is a must to successfully hook sailfish and wind the 15-foot leader within grasp of the mate. Michael Buckland of Tequesta caught 7 of Hydrosphere’s fish. Michael would earn the title of
Top Angler Overall in the 2025 Derby for his accomplishment. This honor is awarded with the Mrs. Henry R. Rea trophy, a magnificent silver sailfish sculpture that dates back to the event’s origin in 1935 and is sponsored by Elizabeth Richebourg Rea of Connecticut.
The second and final day of the Derby would produce 109 more fish across the fleet. Little wind was present that morning as it switched around to the east after blowing mostly north the day before. A slight temperature increase and change of wind direction presented new conditions offshore. Despite the changes, several crews were able to pick up right where they left off fishing just four lines, a rule rooted in the history of the tournament.
Captain Darrin Isaacs and the Twin Reels, a 64’ Viking, made a splash both days among their sailfishing colleagues and would finish 2nd Place Overall.
Michael Buckland, 2025 Rea Trophy Winner at the Derby Dinner.
Twin Reels was consistent posting 5 releases Day 1, and 7 more Day 2 for a total of 12 sailfish.
With so many talented anglers and knowledgeable captains participating, earning Top Boat honors is not easily done. A flurry of fish were caught in the final hour. Fish On, a 48’ Viking, got in on the afternoon action. Captain Andrew Dotterweich and crew caught a “double” at 3:16 pm and another fish at 3:57 pm. If teams are “hooked up” and report that fish to the tournament radio committee before the 4 pm “Lines-out” call sounds over the VHF, they’re able to land that fish, and it’s an eligible release. Fish On did just that and landed their last fish at 4:11 pm creating an exciting finish. With 8 sailfish Day 1 and 6 more fish day 2, Fish On finished atop the fleet and made their mark as the winners of the 88th annual Silver Sailfish Derby with 14 releases total. Dotterweich earned Top Captain honors, an award presented in memory of Captain Jack Morrow, a legendary captain and longtime WPBFC member.
The Top Lady Angler trophy is sponsored by the Hampp Family of New Jersey in memory of Rose Hampp, who won the honor in the 1957 Derby along with many other awards throughout her accomplished angling career. This year’s winner has pieced together quite the accomplished Derby resume herself. Tatiana Usova of Singer Island was awarded the trophy, her 3rd time winning Top Lady Angler, releasing 6 sails aboard the beautiful Release Boatworks 46’ walkaround, Charlie. This award is always highly
Fish On, the Top Boat Overall, in their slip at Sailfish Marina.
64’ Viking, Twin Reels - 2nd Place Overall.
Photo credits: Jeff & Heather Aderman
Fishing the Palm Beaches
AFishing Forecast
Please be sure to check out my YouTube Channel “Darcizzle Offshore” for fishing videos every week! www.youtube.com/DarcizzleOffshore with
DARCIZZLE
A pair of beautiful black drums I caught using a live shrimp on a jig.
s we near the end of Florida’s ‘winter’ months, offshore fishing for sailfish is still in the spotlight throughout the month of February. As the month progresses the action should remain steady but will begin to fizzle out in the Palm Beach area as the Atlantic sailfish continue their southerly migration. If you haven’t already, try to get out and kite fish for sailfish after a passing cold front. It’s not uncommon to hook two or more sailfish in a single fishing trip when kite fishing. Besides sailfish, there will also be a variety of pelagic fish visiting our waters that will gladly eat your kite baits. Be on the lookout for kingfish, dolphin, wahoo, blackfin tuna, and cobia swimming in your kite spread. I recommend using a small trace of wire on your leaders, so you increase your chances of catching toothy critters like kingfish and wahoo.
Anglers that like to fish from the beach and the waters near shore, the annual migration of spinner sharks should be commencing by the end of the month. These swift, fast-growing sharks are exhilarating to catch. Spinner sharks are named for the spinning leaps they make when they rocket out of the water. When spinners’ are feeding on schools of fish, they will swim vertically through the school while spinning on their axis, erupting from the surface of the water. On the beach and by boat, Florida pompano will be the target fish to catch, and you have to reel them in fast, so the sharks don’t eat them! Move from beach to beach to figure out where the pompano bite is best. Cast around goofy jigs to cover more water to find the pompano. From land you should use a pompano rig, tip the hooks with fresh pieces of shrimp or a sand flea, and then use a piece of Fishbites on top so your fresh bait doesn’t fly off the hook when you cast your rig out.
Bottom fishing should produce a good bite a couple days after a passing cold front. The deeper wrecks like the Skycliffe out of Boynton Inlet and the Ande out of Palm Beach Inlet should be holding almaco jacks, amberjacks, and grouper. I suggest using a long leader at least 15ft long, a 4/0 - 7/0 circle hook based on the size of your bait, with just enough weight to hold the bottom. Bottom fishing should yield muttons, kingfish, cobia, Spanish mackerel, bonito, trigger fish, etc. You will catch yellowtails, muttons, and mangroves closer to the reef itself. Say HELLO if you see me out on the water & submit your catch to our Weekly Bragboard contest every Monday on my Facebook page.
CATCH OF THE DAY FROM SEA TO SIZZLE
Make steak the catch of the day with a celebratory stop at Ruth's Chris. After a day on the water, join us for signature sizzle, hand-crafted cocktails and legendary hospitality.
NORTH FLORIDA
PONTE VEDRA BEACH
814 A1A N., Suite 103 Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 904-285-0014
7501 W. Sand Lake Rd. Orlando, FL 32819 407-226-3900
WINTER PARK
480 N. Orlando Ave. Suite 100B Winter Park, FL 32789 407-622-2444
LAKE MARY
80 Colonial Center Pkwy. Lake Mary, FL 32746 407-804-8220
TAMPA 1700 N. Westshore Blvd. Tampa, FL 33607 813-282-1118
ST. PETERSBURG
131 2nd Ave. N. St. Petersburg, FL 33701 727-821-4139
SARASOTA
6700 S. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34231 941-924-9442
LAKEWOOD RANCH
6490 University Pkwy. Sarasota, FL 34240
941-315-6669
SOUTH FLORIDA
WEST PALM BEACH 651 Okeechobee Blvd. West Palm Beach, FL 33401 561-514-3544
BOCA RATON 225 NE Mizner Blvd. Suite 100 Boca Raton, FL 33432 561-392-6746
BONITA SPRINGS 23151 Village Shops Way Suite 101, Coconut Point Mall Bonita Springs, FL 33928 239-948-8888
FORT LAUDERDALE
2525 N. Federal Hwy Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305 954-565-2338
AVENTURA
2980 NE 207th St. Aventura, FL 33180 305-912-1266
CORAL GABLES
2320 Salzedo St. Coral Gables, FL 33134 305-461-8360
JUPITER
105 Breakwater Ct, Jupiter, FL 33477 561-831-4440
SOUTH COUNTY INSHORE & FRESHWATER
Fishing Forecast
CAPT. PATRICK SMITH
www.swamptosea.com
anything else that’s hanging around. If you find you’re not getting bites, try a small tip of shrimp on the bucktail jig and you should hook up quick if anyone is around. Sheepshead will also most likely be in the area spawning in February, so this is a great time to put some meat in the cooler, just make sure you follow all laws and regulations. It’s also always good to not take more than you need. If you fish around, chances are you’ll have a nice mixed bag of fish for the table. Fly anglers, this is a great time to bust out the six and eight weight, sinking lines with a clouser, and fish them in the same areas that you would a jig, you never know what you might hook up on. In the freshwater, things are going to be a little tougher as the lakes have chilled for the winter and water temps are going to be in the 60’s or lower. It takes quite a while for it to warm up. I tend to find decent action on clown knifefish and hybrids this time of the year. The hybrid stripers were put into the lakes for people to harvest so keep that in mind if you’re looking to take something home while freshwater fishing.
Good luck out there, spring is right around the corner!
Clay and Levi found a remora to play with. His and hers largemouth bass.
Sarah and Barry came all the way from Scotland to catch some snook.
ECO TOURISM
with Chris Thalmann
Winter in Florida brings lots of visitors from out of state and outside the US. For many people, spending time poolside or on the beach, enjoying the sun, warm water, and some icy cool drinks are a mandatory part of the perfect vacation!
But if you’ve been there and done that, or you have family/ friends visiting who are looking for something different to do, I suggest checking out a local festival during these cooler months.
There are events for just about every interest and budget. From food and wine to beer and bourbon, classic cars, show horses, art, music, and more, you’re sure to find something of interest.
On the nature and ecology side of things, one of my favorite events is The Palm Beach County Natural Areas Festival. Held annually at Winding Waters Natural Area in West Palm Beach, this year the festival is on February 15th from 2p-7p. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn about some of Florida’s most scenic ecosystems!
Winding Waters is located at 6161 Haverhill Road in West Palm Beach. Its 550-acres and miles of hiking trails make it easy to explore a mix of marshes, wet prairies, cypress swamps, and wooded pine glades, all in one place.
Much of this land was used for farming before it was restored to native habitats. As with other restoration projects in Palm Beach County, it’s hard to tell what’s been restored and what’s naturally occurring. This “natural restoration” often makes it attractive for native wildlife to quickly colonize the area, and Winding Waters is a perfect example of this pattern.
It’s often possible to spot bald eagles, anhingas, green herons, belted kingfishers, roseate spoonbills, loggerhead shrikes, wood storks, great blue herons, alligators, gopher tortoises, several species of freshwater turtles, and many other creatures, all in the span of an hour.
This year the festival will include several guided hikes, wildlife presentations, kayak tours, trail runs, food trucks, a kid’s zone, face painting, watercolor painting lessons, native plant giveaways, even a sunset celebration at the end of the day!
See and learn all about gopher tortoises and many other native animals! Help plant native wildflowers and take some home for your own garden! Learn all about the history and ecology of Winding Waters Natural Area!
There will also be live demonstrations of how Florida uses intentionally set fires to avoid the massive wildfires seen elsewhere in the world! Fair warning, this part of the day can be a little smoky, so if you have strong allergies, you may want to contact the festival organizers in advance to help plan your visit.
There are some other great eco-oriented festivals coming up later in the year too! MacArthur Beach Nature Fest and Turtle Fest are both later in February, and FireFest happens this fall at Jonathan Dickinson State Park. All are great opportunities to get outdoors and explore!
Enjoy and hope to see you on the water!
Success! I said, “let’s go to lunch and call it a day”. I asked Neil if he was hungry and then he disclosed to me that he ate a banana for breakfast! Neil knows not to bring bananas on the boat (it’s bad luck), but it didn’t occur to him that the curse would remain in e ect with it digesting in his stomach. Myth con rmed or was it bad luck? He should’ve brought his lucky rabbit foot!!!
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Keith Lozott The Fishing Realtor
Making the New Year a Success
2025 is officially under way. This brings opportunity to focus on new ways to improve our fishing success. The first rule of fishing –“you gotta be in it to win it.” There’s no substitute for time on the water. Having said that, it’s not always easy to work out the logistics of a fishing trip. There are multiple schedules and events to coordinate all amongst conflicting personal priorities. Add to that the issues around monitoring agreeable weather conditions and it’s no wonder we don’t get out as often as we like.
When plan A and B work the angler enjoys a multi-species day.
Sometimes it all comes down to timing. When conditions line up where the bite is happening, the weather is cooperating, and you and your fishing buddies’ schedules have synched – it’s time to get out on the water!
Maximizing your day
For me, it all starts with the weather. I use a subscription-based weather app called BouyWeather that forecasts out 16 days. You can easily set multiple loran coordinates for favorite spots to forecast. This gives you some time to plan while monitoring local fishing forecasts both nearshore and offshore. As the desired day gets closer and typically one week out, I then switch to an app called Windy. I like this software as it performs data modeling from several different weather sources - similar to the way hurricane trackers work. The closer the modeling lines come together, the more reliable the forecast.
Lastly, I check the local NOAA weather buoy along with webcam images from my chosen inlet if available. I do this for three days leading up to my target fishing date. Once all key elements line up to indicate favorable conditions, I correlate to actual fishing reports from local sources. This includes bait and tackle shops, online fishing reports, and select social media accounts. I make sure to follow local captains that are on the water day in and day out for recent catches.
This type of diligence can be the difference between a successful trip and a frustrating or even dangerous day on the water.
Don’t be afraid to cancel last-minute if things don’t line up. Better to wait for a better day than risk adverse or unfavorable conditions. Once it’s time to go fishing, make sure to have at least a plan B if your target species
CONTINUED FROM SILVER SAILFISH DERBY PAGE 1 >>
sought after by many lady anglers participating. All things considered; her 6 releases were good enough to also walk away as the 3rd Place Angler Overall across the entire Derby fleet.
The Top Junior Angler was awarded to fourteen-year-old, Parker Steel of Pompano Beach. Parker fished aboard the Native Son with his father Jim Steel and the famous Captain Art Sapp. Jim was complimentary of how Parker held and fished the rod all day. The young man’s focus and persistence would pay off with 3 sailfish releases.
Landing multiple fish hooked up at the same time is a true test of teamwork, but one necessary to climb the competitive leaderboard. What do you do if you’re the only angler on the boat though? Captain Greg Bogdan and the Permitted took Top Small Boat honors with 6 releases aboard the 27’ Conch center console. The Derby is a non-professional angler tournament and Permitted had only Rich Lindner onboard Day 1 to turn the handle. As the solo angler, Rich hooked “a triple.” The three fish went in different directions. Luckily Captain Greg was prepared with plenty of backing under his 20 lb. test monofilament top-
By Mark Ambert
is not cooperating. This will usually entail bringing extra gear, but it will be well worth the effort if it saves the day and puts some edible fish in the cooler. My alternate plan and species are usually quite different from my target fish. As an example, live bait fishing vs jigging and or bottom fishing. This gives me a good way of targeting the entire water column in my search for the bite. With these three rigs, I can target multiple pelagic species such as mahi, tuna, and wahoo while also hitting the bottom for whatever is in season such as snapper and grouper.
When it all comes together
My first day on the water was January 2nd. I had been watching the weather for weeks trying to get a decent day weather-wise to line up with the hectic holiday schedule and it happened. Sea conditions were projected to be 2-3 footers building late afternoon and with winds out of the north we anticipated a slow drift parallel to the coastline. With the rougher weather forecast midafternoon, we decided to stay close to the inlet just off the first ledge. With targeted drifts and live bait, we fished depths between 180-240 feet. We went 2 for 2 on a pair of beautiful sails while going 1 for 2 on “netter” sized mahi. We finished the morning bite jigging up a nice amberjack and kingfish before the weather turned sporty and we called it a day. The slack tide also brought a slowdown in the action. It was definitely a morning bite and tide related being so close to an inlet, so make sure to monitor tide changes. We headed for port tired and happy with fish in the cooler for the weekend!
When everything comes together fishing can be a whole lot of fun and productive, making the waiting and extra diligence well worth it. We had to cancel three prior dates before this one lined up.
Getting out on the water brings its own special rewards, so to me there is no “bad day” fishing. Here’s to sharing adventures and wishing you much success in the year ahead!
Mark Ambert, IG @marksgonefishing_™ marksgonefishing25@gmail.com_ Gear Used – Coastal Fishing Company https://www.coastalfishing.com/
shot to manage being stretched thin. With a lot of determination and little creativity, Rich was able to successfully land all three fish. Greg and others around the tournament were impressed by this display of angling skill. So much has changed in the world of fishing since the Derby’s inception. Bigger faster boats create more accessibility to where teams can fish and how many crew members can ride along to provide a helping hand. This makes the top small boat achievement only more impressive each year. The largest vessel in the 2025 fleet measured 92 feet in length.
The Top Tag Team trophy was awarded to the Blue Devil, a 45’ Grady White. Captain Steve Magassy and crew tagged 5 sailfish. A total of 23 fish were tagged over 2 days of fishing.
The WPBFC is proud to continue this tradition that represents an important part of the Palm Beaches’ unique identity.
By Tom ‘Buzz’ Bzura President West Palm Beach Fishing Club
38’ Winter, Top Daily Boat Day 2.
PALM BEACH IN & OFFSHORE
Fishing Forecast with
CAPT. WESTON RUSSELL
Capt. Weston Russell • www.reelintensefishing.com •561-310-2690
Welcome to the February Coastal Angler Magazine fishing report for Palm Beach, Singer Island, and Palm Beach Shores. Cold fronts and a good northeast swell will create a spinner shark invasion. These acrobatic creatures put on a show for boaters and beach goers alike. Spinners are well known for their leaps and jumps when hooked and sometimes when not hooked. Light tackle is the best way to go. The best spot is the shallow waters to the north of the condos. Spinners will eat almost anything, so you should have no problem hooking up with a few. Also, cruising the beaches will be Spanish mackerel, huge jacks, and tarpon. Sounds like an inshore ambush!
Let’s now talk about the inlet fishing where the Palm Beach Inlet is deep and brings a lot of water inshore and offshore twice a day. This is a giant fish highway, so before you head offshore, you may want to look around a little bit and see what’s hanging out at the mouth of the inlet. Monster tarpon will be lurking and there could be some big schools of 30lb. jacks. Casting of lures will work great around this area. Make sure you keep your engine running so you can get out of the way of any kind of boats coming through. Safety is a must!
For you offshore anglers, sailfish will be on the top of the list, but you will have a chance for wahoo, so if you’re kite fishing, don’t forget the wire leader. For those of you trolling, don’t forget your planers. Another target swimming the Gulf Stream will be the tasty dolphin. The AM bite is great,
but don’t forget the PM. The hour before sunset is the “magic time”, but if you’re looking for a stud, you will need live bait. Don’t try to catch your own bait, it takes too much time, that’s more of a summertime thing. It’s best to contact your local bait guy on VHF channel 68 to load up. Good luck and remember that you can’t catch them from the couch!
Fishing inshore has many opportunities. Check out this permit caught on the flats of Peanut Island sand bar.
JUPITER INLET INSHORE
Fishing Forecast
CAPT. CRAIG KORCZYNSKI
February fishing provides anglers with cool days and moderate winds while targeting their favorite or bucket list species. Snook anglers should target deeper holes, bridges, channels, and
sea walls. The snook will be holding near the bottom and tight on structure. At high noon on sunny days, look for snook laying up on sand bars basking in the sun. The snook will strike live bait or D.O.A. C.A.L. 3” Shad Tail in Arkansas glow.
The tarpon fishing in the back canals and bays offers great action with the fly rod and artificial lures. Keep an eye out for rolling fish on the surface and work the area thoroughly. Deeper passes hold bigger fish up to 60 pounds. Anglers using live baits will have plenty of action but artificial lures like a D.O.A. TerrorEyz and D.O.A. Bait Buster in pearl/green back will provoke strikes from the silver king.
The ICW will be teeming with life as anglers can target jacks, snook, tarpon, sharks, drum, sheepshead, and pompano. Seawalls and docks are great areas for jacks and snook during the day and at night. Live shrimp, mullet, and D.O.A. C.A.L. 3” Shad Tail will produce many strikes. Topwater Rapala Skitter Walks, early morning and late in the afternoon, will provide explosive action for topwater fanatics.
Well, that is the fishing report for the Palm Beach and Jupiter area. I hope you all enjoyed, get out there, and get hooked up. Tight Lines!
February brings cooler yet great weather for South Florida. With colder mornings, fish and wildlife are waiting for the sun to shine and for things to warm up. The crocodiles pictured are sunning themselves during the afternoon. The Everglades National Park named this large 13-foot crocodile Fred. Fred is known to be 50 years old, and they say he eats smaller prey. I wouldn’t get too close, but visitors want to get pictures with Fred daily. We all hope Fred doesn’t try to grab anyone, but if he did, they wouldn’t go far because we haven’t seen Fred try to run in a long time. Fishing all over Flamingo is great this time of year with anglers targeting trout, snook, tarpon, and redfish. I’ve caught more trout than ever lately using jigs tipped with shrimp under popping bobbers or throwing lures. The snook pictured was caught in a low water mud area that seems to be a spot that warms up quickly as
the sun comes up. Always check the weather and watch for high winds over 25mph because with that amount of wind it’ll be rough in a lot of areas especially around East Cape and Whitewater Bay. Whitewater Bay got its name because with high winds, it looks like you are in a washing machine. Any questions, I’ll try to answer them at my website of FloridaFlatsFishingAdventures. com, Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube. You can book a trip all year round at a discounted rate by mentioning Coastal Angler Magazine.
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As we head into February, the fishing action is heating up, especially with drift fishing taking center stage. This month, anglers can expect an abundance of snapper species including yellowtail, mangrove, lane, and mutton snapper. These fish are biting well, providing plenty of action for those looking to reel in a tasty catch. In addition to snapper, the waters are teeming with other species, including grunts, triggerfish, porgies, red grouper, and kingfish, all of which are contributing to a lively and diverse fishing experience.
One of the key factors that make February an exciting time for fishing is the water temperature, which begins to warm up. This temperature rise, combined with a good flow of current, creates an ideal environment for fish to thrive. The mixing of water currents helps stir up baitfish, attracting predators and making for a productive fishing season.
With so many species in play and great conditions on the horizon, now is the perfect time to book your fishing adventure. Don’t miss out on the excitement—call us today to schedule your next trip and make the most of the great fishing season ahead!
For sport fishing enthusiasts, February offers an array of thrilling target species. Expect to encounter big game sharks, amberjacks, blackfin tuna, kingfish, wahoo, mahi mahi, and sailfish, all of which are more active this time of year. Whether you’re looking for a trophy fish or just a day of fun on the water, there’s something for every angler in February.
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The winter months targets should continue to be pompano, Spanish mackerel, sheepshead, and bluefish. Fishing the beach and the Intracoastal near inlets will be your best bet. The colder the water temps get the more fish will push into the river and Intracoastal. Look to fish for pompano and bluefish along channel edges near your favorite inlet. Try launching at Jim Barry Park near Peanut Island to put you in a good area of some good channels. Pompano jigs, D.O.A. Lures 2.75” Shrimp, and a good ‘ole bucktail jig are a few of my favorite lures. Spanish mackerel can give you some nonstop action on the beach and on the inside Intracoastal. Finding the schools and throwing spoons and bucktail jigs will entice a bite.
Brian with a good pompano.
Offshore
Always be prepared to be cold launching in the surf this time of year. Get a good pair of bibs or light waders from Frogg Toggs to keep you dry launching and from wave splashes while out there. Sailfish and kingfish will be the most common catches with a random mahi and wahoo in the mix. Slow trolling goggle eyes and blue runners in 90-250 feet of water will be your best bet to get a bite. Don’t forget to grab a few Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnows to troll as well if bait is hard to come by. I like to run a deep diver and shallow runner to cover more of the water column.
Freshwater
Peacock bass and clown knifefish will be chewing in big groups this month. Launching at Lake Ida West Park is a good place to start your search for some fish. Try a 15-pound Yo-Zuri Topknot Fluorocarbon leader and a 2/0 circle hook casting in and around structure. Bridges can hold some big numbers during the colder winter mornings. Look to fish the mid-water column and below by adding a pinch weight to your leader and get that bait in their face.
Check out Pushin’ Water Kayak Charters on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for all the latest adventures my clients and I get into.
BRAGBOARD
Dave Lawrence caught this mahi out of Ft. Lauderdale kite fishing on a live goggle eye.
Sammi caught this largemouth bass from a Wellington canal.
Yeager VI reeled in this jack in a canal on the Citrus Isles on live, light
John
tackle.
Brian with a solid clown knifefish.
Bruce with a nice sailfish.
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quEst foR tHE RINg Jimmy Johnson’s BOASTS LARGEST PURSE
In Florida Tournament History
Register to come a!er the coveted ring and the world’s largest guaranteed purse in sport sh history and the largest purse in Florida tournament history at Jimmy Johnson’s Quest for the Ring Championship, taking place during JJFISHWEEK, March 4-8, 2025.
Jimmy’s two-day bill sh competition is heating up and will feature the top anglers in the country as they hit the waters to claim the prize in this highly competitive tournament. Estimated at up to $2,000,000, the competition features the Hybrid Purse, a guaranteed $1,000,000 payout—plus an accruing prize structure.
Based in South Florida at its new home, e Guitar Hotel at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, FL, Jimmy Johnson’s Quest for the Ring Championship Fishing Week, or JJFISHWEEK, is an annual South Florida event that is renowned for a guaranteed million-dollar-plus purse. e event’s namesake is, of course, legendary Hall of Fame football coach Jimmy Johnson, who is now a xture in the South Florida shing community.
In its 13 year history, this tournament has awarded almost $12,000,000 and 10 Championship Rings as the anglers join in e Keys for this grueling competition. ere are Catch & Release categories, a meat sh optional, and overall awards. A little bit for everyone. Boat entry starts at $5,000.
Host marinas to include Ocean Reef in Miami Beach (members only), Bahia Mar in Fort Lauderdale, and Sail sh Marina. e Bucked Up Energy Boat will be available o of Ocean Reef. Tournament will continue in 2025 as dock of choice. Fish in Key Largo, Miami Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach.
JJ’s National Bill sh Championship is scored by a point system. Registered anglers will receive one point for their boat for each eligible bill sh released in the tournament. All team and individual prize categories will be awarded based on the individual or team’s overall point standings. In the event of a tie, winners will be determined by the team or individual that releases their last sh rst.
To register and for more information, visit questforthering .com.
FWC Enhances Boater Safety With Interactive Waterway App
For years, waterway users in Florida have had to juggle multiple sources of information to plan, prepare and navigate safely to enjoy their time on the water. Understanding weather forecasts, nding local boat facilities, o$cial warnings and notices, waterway zones, and safety equipment requirements o!en required using several apps, websites and publications, leading to uncertainty about where and when to go, what to do and how to fully enjoy a range of water activities safely.
In an exciting development for the boating community, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has announced a new initiative in collaboration with the National Safe Boating Council to pilot interactive safety content through a free mobile app called DECKEE, designed to keep boaters safe and informed. Whether you’re navigating the coastline in a powerboat or sailing yacht, paddling in Key West in a kayak, or heading out for a day of shing with friends, content delivered through the DECKEE app uni es everything Florida’s water enthusiasts need for their next day on the water.
Over 1 million boat owners in Florida now have access to the following bene ts and safety features in the free DECKEE app:
• Plan your next adventure on the water with detailed maps, facility information, o$cial warnings, aids to navigation and community insights.
• Access personalized equipment checklists, boating forecasts, regulations and resources from the FWC to ensure you are always ready for the ideal weather window.
• Automatically log your activities while on the water and share your live location to give friends and family peace of mind.
e FWC and the National Safe Boating Council will collaborate on the pilot program to seamlessly integrate safety content into the DECKEE app. is will help boaters plan, prepare and enjoy their activities on the water, and gain insight into how the campaigns are in&uencing overall boater behavior. e pilot program will introduce a personalized boating forecast targeted to the user’s watercra! and plans, which will give meaning to the information and help users make sense of it.
“Our goal is to create a safer boating environment for everyone in Florida,” said Brian Rewinkel, FWC Boating Safety Education Coordinator. “ is pilot program will measure the e ectiveness of delivering safety information directly to boaters in an engaging and accessible manner. is initiative represents a signi cant step forward in our commitment to protecting our waterways and those who enjoy them.”
Florida boaters are encouraged to explore the new safety capabilities in the free DECKEE app, available from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store or Deckee.com/download.
For more information about FWC boating safety initiatives, visit MyFWC.com/boating.
TIRED OF LOSING JIGS ON ROUGH BOTTOM?
TRY
SLIDING CORKS
Tim Barefoot
You know the !sh live around structure, and if you’re gonna catch ‘em, you have to !sh for them where they live! ey will not come to where you want to catch them, you have to got to where they live. I have quite a few places I like to !sh over shell beds and down the edge of rip rap that constantly have !sh on during one tide or the other, but the problem is, the bottom stays “hungry” for jigs and you need to !sh close to the bottom (in my humble opinion) to get the most bites. It’s been my experience that this is the place the “sliding cork” shines brightest! A co worker from Louisiana showed me this in the 80’s and it stuck like glue due to the rough bottom I like to !sh. In the beginning, we were !shing (white) Butterbean and No Alibi bucktails under the cork, but we didn’t have the ultra realistic so plastics like we do now back then. ose same bucktails will still catch ‘em, but I just don’t have the con!dence factor in a bucktail now like I have in the shrimp/jig combo. EVERYTHING eats the shrimp!!! Even picky !sh will eat the shrimp. Don’t hesitate to !sh a double tackle of these shrimp. is gets the bite sometimes when all else fails.
cork, or without a cork. e jig is balanced when you tie a loop knot in the eye of the hook, and because of that, it !shes the DOA Shrimp (I like to !sh) very realistically. A shrimp does not swim in the current bow heavy or stern heavy… it swims perfectly horizontal.
e sliding cork accomplishes several things
1) It !shes the shrimp at the exact speed the tide is running
2) It keeps the shrimp in the “strike zone” longer. For example, it will e$ortlessly !sh a wall and/or dock pilings in a way you could’t possible !sh it without the cork.
3) It keeps the jig suspended barely over the bottom a\t an adjustable depth
4) It allows the younger or less experienced angler to avoid being constantly hung up. is allows dad or mom to !sh longer and re-rig less. It’s really simple, when you see the oat go under, SET THE HOOK! Some species (especially ounder) will eat the shrimp coming upwards. is relieves the pressure o$ the cork and it will lay over for a second or so… SET THE HOOK!
Rod selection can make a di$erence, as I do NOT like a rod with 9 or 10 micro guides for !shing the sliding cork for a couple reasons. e smaller guides can e$ect the “bobber stop” keeper, and it can reduce the distance you can cast. I prefer a rod with less and larger guides. is has much less drag on the line allowing for longer cast and less maintenance on the keeper. I’m positive this will become a part of your arsenal if it’s not already. Give it a shot and see for yourself how e$ective it can make your presentation and how e$ective your younger anglers are at this. Check out the attached video for more details.
I really upped my game many years ago when I brought out the Barefoot Jig that sits perfectly horizontal under the (sliding or popping)
WHY BUY NEW WHEN YOU CAN RENEW?!?
For more from Tim Barefoot, visit barefootcatsandtackle.com and check out his YouTube channel.
It’s Sailfish Season!
With the warmest weather in the country, coupled with the shortest run to the !shing grounds, February !shing in the Florida Keys is arguably the best in e United States. While both our Bay and reef !sheries are in their peak productivity, and the wrecks are stacked with possibilities, the best part of our current !shery, is the sail!sh.
As a !sherman with a strong penchant for any !sh with a pointy face, being on the reef is a lot more preferable with the unicorn capturing possibilities this time of year.
Sail!sh migrate into our shallow waters during the winter, providing !shermen the opportunity to target them on and near the reef. Targeting sail!sh can be done in several di$erent ways, from trolling, bump-trolling live baits, driving around sight-casting to dangling a bait from a kite while on anchor, !lling the box with snapper. Depending on the conditions, acquired bait or the level of investment you have for targeting these !sh, all methods have their merits.
Although sail!sh are open to be harvested year round, it is a frowned upon practice to kill these majestic creatures. We love having them in our !shery and we want to keep them here for generations to come. I’m sure I have the meat hunters rolling their eyes, but i can argue that a !sh sandwich has never done to my tummy what watching a line scope out across the surface of the water does while i anticipate that arial performance
from a bill!sh. at being said, sometimes !sh are not always revivable and harvesting them becomes an acceptable option. If you do make a decision to harvest a sail!sh, you are required to have a Highly Migratory Species permit, and the !sh must measure 63” from the lower jaw to the fork of the tail.
By Capt. Quinlyn Haddon
If you do not intend to harvest a sail!sh, it is not legal to bring it into the boat for a photo. Even when done quickly and carefully, this is harmful to the recovery of the !sh. A recent study on white marlin showed that even while out of the water for under 5 minutes, a third of those !sh died within 30 days of being released.
A go-pro on an extender bar is your friend for this type of !shing. Not only can you capture underwater footage, which is key to your sanity if you lose the !sh, but it makes boat-side sail!sh photos possible.
Tagging, and ying ags are other great ways to add to your trophy take-away from the experience. Personally, my favorite sail!sh trophy is the scu$ed hands from where my !ngerless gloves allowed my !ngertips to touch that sandpaper bill during the revival.
A er a long !ght, sail!sh can become exhausted and need a little help restoring their power. A er dehooking your catch and grabbing some quick photos, you will likely need to revive the !sh. With
its tail independently, push it away from the boat and let go.
ere is nothing quite like the experience of bill!shing, and if you haven’t experienced it yet, now is the perfect time to get started. However, I must warn you that the rush is highly addictive and once you join the club, your life will never be the same.
Capt. Quinlyn Haddon guides with Sweet E’Nuf Charters out of Marathon, Florida Keys. (504) 920-6342. IG: @captainquinlyn www.captainquinlyn.com;
MARINE LITHIUM BATTERIES: REVOLUTIONIZING ENERGY STORAGE ON THE WATER
When it comes to powering boats, anglers, and water enthusiasts are constantly seeking the most reliable and e&cient energy solutions. Marine lithium batteries have emerged as a game-changer, providing unparalleled performance, longevity, and environmental bene!ts. Here’s why they’re rapidly becoming the preferred choice for modern boating.
Marine lithium batteries o$er remarkable energy e&ciency compared to traditional lead-acid batteries. ey boast a higher energy density, meaning they store more power in a lighter and more compact package. is translates to reduced weight on board, which is particularly advantageous for boats where every pound counts. e enhanced e&ciency also ensures longer runtimes for trolling motors, navigation systems, and other onboard electronics, keeping you on the water longer without interruption.
One of the standout features of lithium batteries is their impressive longevity. While lead-acid batteries typically last 2-5 years, marine lithium batteries can endure for 10 years or more with proper care. ey can handle thousands of charge and discharge cycles without signi!cant capacity loss, making them a cost-e$ective investment over the long term. is durability is especially important for avid anglers who demand reliable performance over multiple seasons.
Time is precious when you’re preparing for a day on the water. Marine lithium batteries charge signi!cantly faster than their lead-acid counterparts, allowing you to get back on the water more quickly. Many lithium models can reach a full charge in a fraction of the time it takes to recharge traditional batteries. Additionally, they support partial charging without harming their overall health, providing added convenience.
As environmental concerns grow, marine lithium batteries stand out as a greener alternative. ey do not contain harmful substances like lead or sulfuric acid, which can pose risks to both users and aquatic ecosystems. Additionally, their long lifespan reduces waste, and many lithium batteries are recyclable, further minimizing their environmental footprint.
Modern marine lithium batteries are equipped with advanced safety mechanisms, such as built-in Battery Management Systems (BMS). ese systems monitor parameters like temperature, voltage, and current to prevent overheating, overcharging, and short-circuiting. is high-level of protection ensures safe and reliable operation, even in demanding marine environments.
Marine lithium batteries are also perfect for powering high-demand systems like electric trolling motors, onboard appliances, and !sh !nders.
eir ability to deliver consistent power output without voltage drops ensures optimal performance for all your boating needs. Whether you’re cruising, !shing, or exploring, lithium batteries provide the reliability and endurance you need.
Marine lithium batteries represent a signi!cant advancement in energy storage technology, o$ering unmatched e&ciency, durability, and environmental bene!ts. While the upfront cost may be higher than traditional batteries, their long-term advantages make them a worthwhile investment for serious boaters. By switching to marine lithium batteries, you’ll enjoy peace of mind, superior performance, and a cleaner, greener boating experience. As the marine industry continues to evolve, lithium batteries are leading the charge toward a more sustainable and e&cient future on the water.
Lithium Battery Power offers a versatile selection of high-quality lithium batteries and accessories, specially designed for the fishing industry. Whether you're powering trolling motors, fish finders, or other marine electronics, our batteries provide reliable, long-lasting energy to keep you on the water longer. Built to perform in the toughest conditions, our batteries ensure that your gear runs smoothly, no matter where your fishing takes you.
B.A.S.S. ANNOUNCES HIGH-POWERED 2025 ELITE SERIES FIELD
On the heels of a record-setting 2024 Bassmaster Elite Series, where attendance and viewership numbers were equaled only by record weights and nail-biting !nishes, the competitive !eld for the 2025 season has been set. Although last year’s rookie class took the Elites by storm, the young guns stepping up to the big stage this year are just as !erce. However, the veterans will have something to say about who will be holding the blue trophies when the scales settle.
All 104 anglers invited to join the 2025 Elite class accepted the challenge, including seven former Bassmaster Classic champions and eight former Angler of the Year champions. e rookie class is led by Easton Fothergill, who won two Bassmaster Opens events in 2024 and the points race in the 2024 Elite Quali!ers division to punch his ticket to the big show. Cody Meyer, Tucker Smith, Paul Marks, Emil Wagner, Andrew Loberg, Dakota Ebare, Beau Browning and Evan Kung are
also part of the stacked freshman class. Two legends will be joining the 2025 Elites, both dragging a Classic trophy alongside them. Randy Howell won the world championship in 2014 and has almost $2 million in B.A.S.S. winnings. Cli$ Pace hoisted the Ray Scott Bassmaster Classic trophy in 2013 and has almost $1.7 million in career earnings.
Each event will kick o$ with the full !eld of 104 anglers on Days 1 and 2 before the !eld is cut to 50 for the semi!nal round. e !eld will then be cut to the Top 10 on the !nal day, with the winner taking home the title and the $100,000 !rst-place prize.
e 2025 Elite Series will kick o$ with the Bassmaster Elite at St. Johns River February 2023 in Palatka, FL. From there, the competitors will rattle rods through six other states while battling for the Progressive Insurance Bassmaster Angler of the Year title and a berth into the 2026 Bassmaster Classic.
Founded in 2006, the Bassmaster Elite Series is the highest level of professional bass !shing tournaments. Competitors must qualify for the series through the St. Croix Bassmaster Opens or the TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation, and anglers who are already on the Elite Series must requalify each year by maintaining enough points throughout the season. e pro anglers compete all season for the opportunity to win points toward the Progressive Bassmaster Angler of the Year award and to qualify for the Bassmaster Classic.
For more information and tournament schedule, visit bassmaster.com.
Now, THIS is a Knife!
EXCLUSIVE FREE
Inthe blockbuster film, when a strapping Australian crocodile hunter and a lovely American journalist were getting robbed at knife point by a couple of young thugs in New York, the tough Aussie pulls out his dagger and says “That’s not a knife, THIS is a knife!” Of course, the thugs scattered and he continued on to win the reporter’s heart.
Our Aussie friend would approve of our rendition of his “knife.”
Forged of high grade 420 surgical stainless steel, this knife is an impressive 16" from pommel to point. And, the blade is full tang, meaning it runs the entirety of the knife, even though part of it is under wraps in the natural bone and wood handle.
Secured in a tooled leather sheath, this is one impressive knife, with an equally impressive price.
This fusion of substance and style can garner a high price tag out in the marketplace. In fact, we found full tang, stainless steel blades with bone handles in excess of $2,000. Well, that won’t cut it around here. We have mastered the hunt for the best deal, and in turn pass the spoils on to our customers.
But we don’t stop there. While supplies last, we’ll include a pair of $99, 8x21 power compact binoculars, and a genuine leather sheath when you purchase the Down Under Bowie Knife
Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. knife in your hands, wear it on your hip, inspect the impeccable craftsmanship. If you don’t feel like we cut you a fair deal, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the item price.
Limited Reserves. A deal like this won’t last long. We have only 1120 Down Under Bowie Knives for this ad only. Don’t let this beauty slip through your fingers at a price that won’t drag you under.
Stauer® 8x21
Compact Binoculars
$99 valuewith purchase of Down Under Knife
BONUS! Call today and you’ll also receive this genuine leather sheath!
Your Insider Offer Code: DUK427-01 You must use the insider offer code to get our special price. Down Under Bowie Knife $249* Offer Code Price Only $99 + S&P Save $150
What Stauer Clients Are Saying About Our Knives
“This knife is beautiful!”
— J., La Crescent, MN
“The feel of this knife is unbelievable...this is an incredibly fine instrument.”
— H., Arvada, CO
*Discount is only for customers who use the offer code versus the listed original Stauer.com price.
California residents please call 1-800-333-2045 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product.
• Etched stainless steel full tang blade ; 16” overall • Painted natural bone and wood handle • Brass hand guards, spacers & end cap • Includes genuine tooled leather sheath 14091 Southcross Drive W., Dept. DUK427-01 Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com
