SIGHT FISHING SUCCESS TARGETING SNOOK
navigating peace of mind
THE IMPORTANCE OF BOAT INSURANCE
Embarking on the open water is an exhilarating experience, flled with the promise of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a weekend cruiser, safeguarding your vessel with proper insurance is not just a choice—it’s a necessity. Explore the reasons why every boat owner should prioritize boat insurance for a worry-free voyage.
Unpredictable waters
The open water can be unpredictable, with unexpected storms, collisions, or other potential accidents. Boat insurance can give you fnancial protection if there is damage to your vessel, providing coverage for repairs or replacement.
Damage and injury
Accidents on the water can result in damage to other boats, docks, or even injuries to passengers. Boat insurance offers liability coverage, which can pay for damages or injuries you’re liable for while boating, up to specifed limits, and lawsuit costs if you’re sued. This includes damage you cause to another watercraft or if someone on or near your boat is injured and you’re found to be legally responsible.
Theft and vandalism
Unfortunately, boat theft and vandalism are realities that boat owners face. Boat insurance has comprehensive and collision coverage that can protect you against events outside of your control, including theft and vandalism.
Incurred medical payments
Accidents on the water may lead to injuries for you or your passengers. Boat insurance offers a range of optional medical payments coverage limits, helping to cover medical expenses if you are in an accident or someone is hurt on your boat, regardless of fault.
Peace of mind for fnancing
If you fnanced the purchase of your boat, most lenders require insurance coverage to protect their investment. Having boat insurance not only fulflls these requirements but also gives you peace of mind knowing that your fnancial interests are safeguarded.
Navigational fexibility
Some water municipalities and marinas may require proof of insurance for docking or accessing certain areas. Boat insurance allows you the fexibility to explore different destinations without worrying about entry restrictions.
Emergency towing and assistance
Progressive boat insurance can include optional Sign & Glide® On-Water Towing coverage. If your boat is disabled or breaks down on the water, Sign & Glide® pays for on-water towing, jump starts, soft un-groundings, and fuel delivery.
Wreckage removal
If your boat sinks, Progressive boat insurance will cover the cost of removing your boat from the water (if removal is legally required).
Investing in boat insurance is not just about protecting a valuable asset; it’s about safeguarding the memories, experiences, and joy that come with your on-water adventures. Don’t let unforeseen circumstances disrupt your journey—navigate with confdence, knowing that Progressive boat insurance has you covered. Ensure a smooth and worry-free voyage, because when it comes to your boat, peace of mind is the ultimate luxury.
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SIGHT FISHING FOR SUCCESS
The rewards of a catch made while sight fshing go well beyond the satisfaction of landing the fsh. Take every opportunity to observe fsh in their natural habitat. To maximize success, an angler should take in as much information while on the water as possible.
By Capt. John Luck
Regardless of your target species, tackle of choice, or home waters, actually seeing the fsh is not only highly enjoyable but one of the best learning experiences an angler can have. It leads to a detailed understanding of fsh behavior.
Te sight fshing angler gets to see fsh react to everything around them, from the lure, bait, or fy presented to them, to the actual structure of the waterbody they live in. Recognizing their cues of interest or disinterest becomes applicable for species in both fresh and saltwater. Obviously remaining as quiet as possible, making sure that you have a good vantage point and during daylight hours having a good pair of sunglasses are all vital to your success. My personal favorite is the Bajio Tech Angler Collection due to their ultra clear polarized lens.
Sight fshing enables an angler to have more control over the outcome and allows you to adjust your bait and techniques to ensure a strike.
Sight fshing isn’t just about catching fsh; it’s about understanding their behavior, engaging with the process, and enjoying the thrill of spotting your target underwater. So next time you’re out on the water, keep your eyes peeled—you might just discover a whole new dimension to your angling.
I hope you fnd this article informative! If you have any other requests or questions, feel free to ask. Tight lines.
Contact Capt. John Luck at luckydogman@msn.com.
South Pacifc Topwater Fight Club
It seems the farther south you go, the tougher the fsh get. Tis holds true in the South Pacifc. If you’re looking to go head-to-head and toe-to-fn with some of the toughest fsh out there, Fiji is a great bet.
Tese fsh are aggressive, fast and strong, and with a fortress built of line-cutting sharp edges, the fsh start with the advantage. Tis is a great place to target giant trevally (GT). Although it is still far away, Fiji is a great alternative to the Seychelles, and it is a destination that ofers amenities for anglers as well as their non-fshing companions. I fshed out of Savusavu, a large remote island that requires an additional hour-long fight on a small plane from the international airport on the main Island. Te remoteness means less fshing pressure, but the island still ofers luxury accommodations. As fshy as Fiji is, it doesn’t get much fshing tourism. It’s a diving and resort destination that happens to ofer amazing fshing. Summers feature a great yellowfn tuna and GT bite, and winters hold marlin and wahoo. I was there during a transitional phase into winter (seasons are reversed there), and there were plenty of resident fsh to target including GT, which is what I was afer. Immersion Fiji is the most experienced guide on the island, and Michael can handle anything from topwater for GT to massive yellowfn and even spearfshing or a cool waterfall getaway.
Te GTs are unquestionably an apex predator and the top quarry. Tese are very aggressive, strong and smart fsh that you need to be battle ready for. My weapon consisted of heavy spinning gear with 100-lb. braid, 150-lb. leader and 350-lb. terminal tackle. When a GT explodes on a 7-inch popper, there is no question that it’s game on. It’s like a bowling ball being dropped from a third-foor window, followed by hooking your line to a semi truck. With drags set at 20 pounds, the fght is as much on the fsh as it is on you. Any less drag would result in countless breakofs in the reef. Te fght will tax your strength, and be prepared for some heartbreaks. Tere is no doubt that topwater fshing for these guys exceeds the hype.
Another fsh that will blast your popper is a Pacifc Spanish mackerel, also known to the locals as walu. Similar looking to our kingfsh, this is one of Fiji’s most prized table fare. It’s much whiter, fakier meat than our mackerel and is a staple in Fiji’s national dish Kokoda (pronounced ko-con-da), which is a ceviche with fresh coconut cream. Tey ofen blow a plug completely out of the water, and they also hit deep trolling plugs, which makes for a nice break
By Will Schmidt
from casting. Long strong runs and crazy aerial attacks make this another great fsh to come across as you search for GTs.
You can also downsize to a foating stick bait for additional topwater action. Smaller, yet aggressive and strong fsh like red bass, bluefn trevally, emperor fsh and other reef dwellers provide plenty of exciting action on the surface.
If giant trevally are on your hit list, Fiji is an amazing destination that fully delivers. Te locals could not be more inviting and friendly, the water is unbelievably clear, and the islands are as peaceful as they are beautiful. It’s truly a trip of a lifetime.
Will Schmidt is a seasoned tournament angler who has been writing about fshing for three decades. For information about fshing Fiji, contact Immersionfji.com.
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TARGETING FALL SNOOK
THATCH MAGUIRE, EDITOR AT LARGE
Snook are a great inshore/near shore species to target. Teir predator style bite and their world class fght make them truly worthy of the gamefsh title, but catching a snook or targeting snook can be challenging. While there are countless fsheries that hold snook, narrowing down the best area is not an easy call. Given that snook season opens on Florida’s east coast September 1st here are a few tips that will pay of in planning a successful snook fshing trip; one that nearly ensures your success.
First and foremost, where are you most likely to catch snook? Tat’s not a trick question. It’s the frst question you should answer before planning your snook fshing expedition. My snook fshing eforts have led me to believe that the Jupiter Inlet on Florida’s East Coast is the most reliable estuary for easily accessible snook for beginners. My catch ratio over the many years that I have fshed the Jupiter Fla. Inlet suggests that the primary species in and around this pristine inlet is snook. Day in day out, if you catch a fsh in the Jupiter Inlet it will more than likely be a snook.
Te next important question for a successful trip is what to use as a bait or lure? For the most predictable success I strongly recommend live bait. Te bigger the better. Pilchards are my number one live bait, but croakers and pinfsh work well too. Keeping your live bait lively
and healthy is a chapter in itself. Changing your water regularly and adding aeration are key essentials to prolonging your bait’s life. Tere’s nothing worse than getting on top of the bite and discovering your bait is dead. We’ve all done it, but don’t let it happen to you.
Next on the check list is tackle. You’ll want to scrap the light tackle approach for Jupiter Inlet snook. Medium to heavy or you’ll invariably lose the big ones. I recommend a 20-pound braid with at least a 40-pound leader. Circle hooks are a good consideration if you’re experienced in using them. Nothing less than a #4. You better have a heavy-duty landing net too because some of these monsters just won’t ft into some of the more modest nets. Te next important question is the easiest to answer. Where in the Jupiter Inlet do I fsh for snook with predictable results? Answer- just about anywhere! Obviously, docks are a great hiding place for snook, and night fshing will normally produce the best results around docks with lights or shadow lines. Flip a big pilchard under a dock light in Jupiter Inlet and watch what happens. You’re about to be tested because you’ve got to horse them away from the pilings or you’ll be kicking yourself for days. Tis is where the braid comes in handy. It’ll allow you to win that battle more ofen than not. But everybody loses that battle from time to time. Seawalls are also a good source for targeting snook. Tey’re cruising the seawalls constantly so just be patient and let your live bait do all the work.
You can use live shrimp if that’s all you can get, but your species catch will not be predominantly snook. You’ll catch a fair amount of junk fsh in Jupiter with live shrimp. I personally don’t want to confuse the efort with all that inferior action, and you don’t have to travel to Jupiter for that catch.
A NEW NAME FOR BASS? ‘FLORIDA’ BASS
Largemouth bass in Florida will now have a new name. Tis new designation may also afect bass in Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina as well. Tey are now designated as Florida bass. We’re sure our buddies in Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina are going to love that, but a recent study by researchers at Yale University using genetic analysis determined that Florida bass are their own distinct species. Te scientifc name for Florida bass is Micropterus Salmiodes while the scientifc name for largemouth bass will now be Microperus Nigrians.
Anglers have long suspected that bass in Florida grow faster and bigger and now the genetic research confrms that theory. How this new designation will afect the bass tournament circuit and regulations remains to be seen.
According to Michelle Kerr,
Repower Center
spokesperson for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, “Genetics research gave us a clearer picture of what many anglers and biologists have long suspected: Florida bass are truly unique. Recognized now as a distinct species from the largemouth bass, this new classifcation not only celebrates Florida bass as a symbol of our state’s freshwater legacy but will also orts in conservation and management.”
Given that Florida hatcheries have long been a premium source for stocking and restocking bass estuaries throughout the world, the new designation could have ramifcations beyond the Carolinas and Georgia. Regardless of what the future for bass nomenclatures holds in store, our hats go of to the astute researchers at Yale University for providing proof of what many anglers have suspected for years.
For more information on Florida bass visit myfwc.com/fshing/freshwater/black-bass/forida-bass/
By Emily Hanzlik
events, which is a video of my coworkers and I fshing the local waters. Within the videos are lessons about rigs or lures that best ft the area. Tese videos are the backbone of our online program, which guides new anglers through learning to fsh.
TEACHING THE NEXT GENERATION OF ANGLERS
This summer, I’ve had the opportunity to work on my passion for educating young anglers. Tere is a growing need to bring youth involvement to the sport, and here are some of the ways I’ve been able to target young anglers recently.
I am lucky to work with the International Game Fish Association (IGFA). Most people know this organization for keeping track of record fsh, but they also teach families to fsh. IGFA provides Passports Kits, which are all-in-one teaching boxes with everything needed to put on a fshing clinic. Tese kits are sent all over the world, where individuals teach kids and families the basics.
Within the past few years, IGFA has partnered with the National Park Service to host fshing events. My coworkers and I travel to national parks to help them begin their teaching journey.
We show them how to use the tools in the Passport Kit and help them run an education event. We average about 50 people at these events, and usually half of them are kids. First, families attend a basics-of-fshing clinic, and then everyone fshes!
My favorite thing from these clinics is how excited the kids are about learning to cast. I stand in front of them and tell them to aim at me like they are throwing a ball. Some kids are nervous, at frst, but the fear goes away when they realize it is easy. It’s an amazing feeling knowing you helped change someone’s perspective.
In addition to working with IGFA, I also run my own charter, Emily Hanzlik Outdoors. My focus is to give kids a one-on-one experience learning to fsh. Everything is from land at a local marina where I grew up fshing. I give kids tons of hands-on experiences and teach them about the surrounding environment. I recently completed a trip with three young girls who had fshed before but didn’t know the true beauty of it. I had some mini fsh tanks set up that allowed them to view the tropical fsh they caught. Te youngest girl would catch her fsh and immediately run it over to view it in the tank. Each time she would pull out a book I had given them and try to identify the species. She would sit there for a few minutes admiring the fsh before releasing them. I can positively say all three girls learned to appreciate the beauty of the fshery we have in south Florida.
Take a kid fshing. It might be something they never forget!
Tere is also an online component to these
Emily Rose Hanzlik has caught more than 60 IGFA world records in various categories. Find her on social media @emilyhanzlikoutdoors.
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FWC IMPLEMENTS RED SNAPPER LOTTERY
Florida Fish and Wildlife (FWC) is giving anglers the opportunity to directly provide data and improve the management of red snapper in the South Atlantic ocean.
With an exempted fshing permit, you can fsh for red snapper and keep them outside of the 1-day federal season. But here’s the catch, only a limited number of anglers can get one.
Te FWC recognizes that a 24-hour Atlantic Red Snapper season is disappointing. Tat’s why they want to recruit recreational anglers to collect better data on snapper fshery. Up to 200 people will be selected by lottery every 3 months for the opportunity.
FWC Federal Fisheries Section Leader CJ Sweetman said about 1,600 exempted fshing permits will be issued to anglers this year. Locally, 800 of those permits will be awarded to the “Hot Spot Fleet” which stretches from the Florida Georgia Line south to Cape Canaveral.
“ Te most recent federal stock assessment for Atlantic red snapper classifed as undergoing overfshing. But the stock assessment also showed that there’s near record abundance of red snapper, which is kind of what everyone sees on the water,” Sweetman said.
EFPs allow harvest for certain fsh and wildlife prohibited under current federal regulation, like red snapper
Having this permit, will allow anglers to give better data to FWC so that FWC can take that to the council and hopefully get it to open back up a longer season.
Te three EFP projects are happening simultaneously over the next 12 months from August 2024 through July 2025. Tey will be broken up into four, three-month quarters.
• Quarter 1: August 2024 to October 2024
• Quarter 2: November 2024 to January 2025
• Quarter 3: February 2025 to April 2025
• Quarter 4: May 2025 to July 2025
Each quarter’s application period will open the month before.
To apply for an EFP, log in or create an account with Go Outdoors Florida and select the project you want to collaborate with the FWC on. In Northeast Florida, you’ll want to select the “Hot Spot Fleet.”
You don’t have to own a boat to apply for an exempted fshing permit.
By Ben Martin, Editor in Chief
HOLLYWOOD FISHES
Passionate anglers are in all elements of our society. Te angling community is inclusive of all socioeconomic strata and political preferences. It’s non-racially biased, non-gender specifc or restrictive, and passionate anglers are found within all professions.
I recently had the opportunity to interview one of Hollywood’s up-andcoming young talents, Alex Neustaedter. You may remember him from his roles in American Rust, Colony, Ithaca, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and a slew of others, but what surprised me during our interview is all he wanted to talk about was fshing.
From the memory of his frst fsh, a sun perch caught from Lake of the Ozarks, to his ofshore kingfsh in South Florida, to his current fy fshing endeavors Out West, I found myself thinking, “He’s one of us.”
Tat commonality within the sport of fshing is so rare in today’s era of divisiveness and exclusionary mentality that I feel compelled to salute us, anglers of all walks of life sharing the joys of something we can all agree on. Fishing is a great sport, and anglers make up a great community.
For more information on Alex Neustaedter and his cinematic career, visit https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2614237.
Kids Making Memories on the Water
For more than three decades the West Palm Beach Fishing Club’s charitable affiliate, the Palm Beach County Fishing Foundation (PBCFF), has been introducing area youth to fishing through its Kid’s Fishing Day program. This is so much more than just a day on the water, it’s a new adventure broadening the children’s horizons as they experience what makes Palm Beach County so special. The PBCFF’s 36th annual program ran earlier this summer for 7 days with nearly 300 kids participating and well over 15,000 since its inception.
Every kid deserves the opportunity to enjoy all the fascination and excitement that comes with clearing the inlet and seeing the wonders of the ocean. Kid’s Fishing Day targets underserved children throughout Palm Beach County who don’t normally have the means to experience saltwater fishing aboard a big boat. It’s hard to understand the importance of the unique marine environment without getting out on the water first-hand. Sea turtles, flying fish, sharks, and other sea life were a sight to see for the wideeyed young participants. Sardines and fresh cut squid produced quality yellowtail snapper, muttons, bonitos, and other species for the kids to wind on while drift fishing. Not only do participants walk away with fishing know-how and a new rod & reel combo, but they hopefully also leave more invested in our saltwater resources. Some were even lucky enough to catch their first fish, a memory they’re not soon to forget.
A special thank you goes out to the presenting sponsor, The Marine Industries Association
of Palm Beach County, and of course the many businesses and individuals who supported this heartwarming event. The PBCFF is also grateful to the dedicated volunteers who gave up their time to help with this meaningful cause, and the crews on the Living On Island Time and Miss Blue Heron for taking the kids offshore for a fun & safe adventure. There›s truly something special about taking kids fishing.
Tom ‘Buzz’ Bzura Managing Director West Palm Beach Fishing Club
with Fishing the Palm Beaches
SFishing Forecast
DARCIZZLE
Please be sure to check out my YouTube Channel “Darcizzle Offshore” for fishing videos every week! www.youtube.com/DarcizzleOffshore
eptember will bring much needed changes to the water conditions in South Florida! Time is of the essence; when you’re planning a fishing trip this month, get out there as early as possible to catch the dawn bite! The surface water temps warm up quickly during the first hour of daybreak, therefore it is important to have lines in the water before the fish swim to deeper water to escape the heat. Within the next few weeks, the mullet run/fall bait migration will take place, which will make it fairly easy for getting bait into the cast net in the ICW, on the beaches, and nearshore. In the meantime, look for threadfins and pilchards, they can be found usually around the mouths of Boynton Beach and Palm Beach Inlets.
Another exciting fish to target this month will be the wahoo! Targeting wahoo on the troll is a nice change of pace and you cover a lot of ground. The impending September full moon will give you another opportunity to catch one if you haven’t already. If you like to troll (7-10 knots), I recommend fishing a bonita strip under a Salty Dawg Sea Witch & pulling two planers (Size 4 & 8) to get the baits deeper in the water column. When the conditions are favorable and wahoo are thick, they will attack any lure you are pulling past them. Wahoo fishing gives you an incredible adrenaline rush, especially when you feel the vicious head shakes while reeling in the fish and hand lining them through the transom door or gaffing them.
For the anglers that prefer reef/wreck fishing, this month should also produce a good bottom bite. I would suggest using a ‘sinking line’ which means a 15ft, 60 to 80lb leader on a swivel, and a heavy sinker to hold the bottom depending on the current. The hook you use depends on the type of bait you prefer to fish the bottom with. When fishing on one of these structures, you will catch big amberjack, assorted snapper including nice sized mutton snapper, along with a few grouper, or even a wahoo.
Inshore fishing should be on FIRE with the mullet run right around the corner! You can use mullet to fish for snook, tarpon, jacks, and trout. Small finger mullets are also perfect for snook, which are being caught and released throughout the day around the inlets right now as the spawning season comes to an end. Good luck, anglers!
SOUTH COUNTY INSHORE
& FRESHWATER
Fishing Forecast with
CAPT. PATRICK SMITH
tails. Day or night really doesn’t seem to matter, the action can be insane with tarpon and snook doing cartwheels through the air while sharks and jacks eat mostly below the surface. One trick I like to do, and it might not seem or feel like the right call, but I will net my mullet and drive them away from the action a few miles in the direction they are moving and try to get them in front of the seemingly waiting predators before the millions of other mullet show up making it hard for mine to stand out. My rig is simply a 6000 spinner with 65lb test and 60-80lb mono leader. As for hook size, 4/0-8/0, depending on the size of the bait.
Another pretty fun thing to do is net mullet and take them offshore slow trolling live. Everything eats them and generally makes for a pretty great surface show. Kingfish, mahi, sailfish, and lots of others absolutely love to find a mullet all alone in the ocean. The rig is the same that I use inshore.
It’s September and that means it’s time for one of the greatest shows on earth, the annual fall mullet migration when massive schools of bait fish flow down the coast with massive predators right on their
snook tackle.
Freshwater fishing can be a little tough this time of year with water temps starting in the 90’s, even overnight. You can still get on a decent bite for the first few hours in the morning, mostly on peacocks and cichlids. Keep in mind they will probably be stressed and low on oxygen so try to minimize handling and get a quick release.
Good luck out there!
Goliath groupers are awesome fish to target during the summer, imagine catching a fish so big that you have to get in the water with it for a picture.
Parker and a 43” snook of a lifetime.
Natalie caught this giant blackfin tuna on light tackle in Boynton Beach.
This yellowfin tuna was a rare catch for our area and was landed on very light
with a huge sh. It was a big snook; I got her to the boat, revived her, and released her to ght another day. 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!!!
on island time! Living on
Keith Lozott The Fishing Realtor
isLand Time
fish tripsBoth tuesdayoN $130 per person tuesday special 1:00pm-7:00pm (6-hours) $80.00 per person
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PALM BEACH IN & OFFSHORE
Fishing Forecast with
CAPT. WESTON RUSSELL
Capt. Weston Russell
Expect wahoo to be around in September. Early morning trolling is a great plan.
561-310-2690
Welcome to Coastal Angler Magazine’s Palm Beach, Singer Island, and Palm Beach Shores fishing forecast for September. Let’s talk about the fall run of kingfish. These fish will be on the smaller side but will be in good numbers. Kings will be holding in 70ft to 120ft of water. If the bite is slow, try doing a drift a little deeper in 180ft. This is the time of year to scale down the tackle. Try using smaller wire like a #3 or #4 to get that bite going. The reef bite will also be good as yellowtail, mutton, and vermilion snapper will be holding up in 60ft to 90ft of water. Scaling down also for the snapper bite is important too. Try using a light leader like 30lb and a smaller black hook like a #4.
The inshore bite will be heating up this fall with the mullet run. Cruising the beach looking for schools of mullet will be easy. Just look for huge black masses near the shore. Anything from sharks and huge jacks to tarpon will be feeding on these baits. The key is not to cast into the school, but to work the outer edge. If you toss the bait in the middle, it will be lost among the thousands of other mullet. Also, try using a small sinker to get your bait to swim under the school. Another option is to throw artificial baits as plugs, spoons, and jigs will work great. Cast them around the fringes of the school and hold on tight!
We covered the offshore and inshore bite, but I want to now talk a little about the sword fishing. September winds will still be somewhat calm so take advantage of it. Swords will be holding in the 1200 to 1800ft range and will be eating live baits and rigged squid. If you haven’t had the chance to battle a gladiator of the deep, you still have time. Please make sure all your boating safety gear is up to date. Well, good luck and remember, you can’t catch them from the couch!
September Palm Beach fishing is fantastic! Fall mullet run migration invades the Palm Beaches. Bait schools push south and the predator fish follow putting on quite a spectacle. Snook fishing is excellent as they can be targeted along beaches, inlets, seawalls, and docks. Topwater Rapala Skitter Walks are an excellent choice for explosive strikes. D.O.A. Bait Busters entice snook to strike near surface and sub surface. The mullet schools are great areas to locate snook, typically morning and evenings are the best times to fish. Bridges and docks provide plenty of action. Channel edges will produce plenty of drag screaming action as well. Snook gather in pods at times, average size of the snook ranges from 5 to 25 pounds.
Tarpon offer acrobatic action for anglers with sky rocketing jumps and drag screaming runs, anglers can endure epic battles with the silver king. Live mullet on the surface trigger massive strikes. The average size of the tarpon ranges from 10 to 80 pounds. Artificial enthusiasts, Rapala X-Rap, D.O.A. Bait Busters, and D.O.A. TerrorEyz are all great baits to get the drag screaming.
The flats and ICW are great areas to target snook, jacks, goliath grouper, drum, and many other species for rod bending action. Structure, potholes, and grass flats hold bait schools where predator fish will follow. For anglers who want steady action, nothing beats a live mullet, just cast one out along drop offs or structure and hold on tight. Nothing beats seeing a predator fish exploding on a live bait, it puts a smile on everyone’s face.
Well, that is the fishing report for September, hope you all enjoyed. Remember, you can’t catch them from the couch, so get out there and get hooked up. Tight Lines!
Tanner with a tarpon he will always remember.
Justin with a snook ready for release.
School of Fish crew with a bull shark after an epic battle.
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ECO TOURISM
with Chris Thalmann
September is just past peak sea turtle nesting activity - but don’t be fooled - there’s still lots of activity on our local ocean beaches! Green turtles often continue to nest in large numbers this month. And during early mornings on many days, thousands of little hatchlings will emerge from their nests that were laid months earlier. There’s nothing quite like seeing hatchlings make their way to the ocean for the first time!
We often hear Palm Beach County’s beaches - and particularly our northern beaches - are some of the most densely nested beaches in the world. But what does that really mean? To help put it in perspective, I thought I’d do some math and compare nesting here vs the rest of the state.
2023 was an exceptionally good year for sea turtles nesting here in Palm Beach County, with more than 54,000 documented nests (from FWC database) along our ocean beaches! This was way above average nesting seasons, and mirrored record increases elsewhere in Florida!
FWC documented about 213,000 sea turtle nests throughout Florida in 2023, along 835 miles of nesting shoreline. Florida has way more than 835 miles of shoreline. But not all is “turtle accessible”. Some areas are too rocky, too steep, or too developed to support nesting.
Palm Beach County is one county among 27 with beaches along the ocean or gulf. Our beaches make up a little more than 5% of that statewide 835 miles of “turtle beach”.
And yet, the Palm Beaches often hosts more than 25% of sea turtle nests each year. Why? There’s no easy answer. It’s possible our beach conditions and nearby ocean waters are just naturally more attractive to turtles than elsewhere. It’s also possible that over time, we have intentionally tried to
make our northern beaches more “turtle friendly”.
Whatever the reason, I always encourage people who want to see turtles in the wild to go with an organized tour group. It’s the best way to ensure you’ll see turtles, and the safest way to see them. You can find tours with a quick search online, including our own at aquaadventuretours.com.
If you decide to go on your own, please leave flashlights at home. Flashlights cause turtles to abandon nesting efforts and can also discourage turtles floating just off the beach from even trying to come ashore. Flash photography is even worse - please - just don’t.
Please stay a respectful distance away. They can see you, but they can’t tell if your friend or foe. Best to admire them from a distance. And please - I know they’re super cute - but please don’t touch the little hatchlings - just let them find their way to the ocean. Almost all will.
Finally, please don’t disturb fresh turtle tracks. Researchers use those tracks every day to help ID which turtle species have laid which nests - and where - overnight.
Enjoy your time outdoors and hope you’re able to see some turtles this month!
THE 15TH ANNUAL SAILFISH MARINA BIG DOG FAT CAT KDW SHOOTOUT
The 15th annual Sailfish Marina Big Dog Fat Cat KDW Shootout was amazing from beginning to end. Once again, the captains’ meeting and awards dinner were top notch. It was great to see the local support of sponsors and vendors like Jupiter Boats and many others. We could not do this without our committee, volunteers, and so many more who did an impeccable job putting much time into this yearly event. This year 226 boats participated in the event. Second Chance Puppies and Kittens Rescue helped 20 dogs get adopted, finding their fur-ever homes.
BDFC was able to donate $40,000 to charity last year and they are hoping to surpass that this year. Congratulations to Bobbers Under Fishing Team for weighing in with a 51.5 lb. kingfish. They won $5,000 in cash and $10,500 in Humminbird Electronics, Cannon Downriggers, and a Pure Lure Clothing Package. Thank you to everyone else who placed, and to all who participated to make this such a successful event!
Bill Wummer
MHOOKED ON PO WER
ATLANTIX BY PISCIFUN
By Mark Ambert
any an offshore angler, deep water jigging is a plan b kind of thing. It’s something we do when the traditional bait or trolling bite is slow. Specialized equipment is needed to successfully jig the water column, and the effort associated with moving a metal object at high speed can be exhausting work. Enter electric power assist reels.
Under the right conditions, electric jigging can outproduce baited rigs. I have been successfully using the Kraken by Piscifun for dropping my larger jigs (200g and over) but had been looking for a lightweight electric rod and reel combo for smaller offerings.
As luck would have it, Piscifun just released its newest electric power assist reel – the AtlantiX 1500 and in the perfect form factor for lightweight jigging. I immediately got my hands on one and here are my first impressions.
Feature Functions -
This is a well-designed product with a feature set that is similar to the successful Kraken. Weighing in at just 17oz (vs 30oz for the Kraken), this lightweight reel features an aluminum body, advanced motor technology, intuitive controls, and a self-jigging mode for reliable all-day performance. The aluminum body adds strength and provides enhanced heat dissipation which is critical when the reel is under a load. It has a protective circuit to momentarily interrupt power until the reel cools should thermal conditions be exceeded. The body is well-sealed and houses 10+1 stainless steel ball bearings along with precision-CNC machined copper gears. The line counter is configurable for meters and feet.
Operation -
Using the provided manual, I was able to spool the reel with FINs 40G in the 25/4 ratio. Having a tensile strength of 25lb test with the line diameter of only 4lb test allows for a lot more line on the reel than most other braids.
A thinner braid also allows for a more vertical drop and better control of the jig. FINs braid has proven itself tough and is now my number one choice in braided lines.
I set the self-jigging function to allow the reel to continually jig the lure through the water column and to my specifications. This is a handy feature to have when targeting migratory fish. The reel is rated at 15lb maximum drag and operated silky smooth and flawlessly.
I paired this reel with the JYG Pro Revolution Rod and a Piscifun 5000 mAh battery pack which makes for an excellent light weight electric jigging combo. I used the supplied “shorty” battery cable and pouch to move the battery from the reel to my belt loop. The AtlantiX 1500 with a freshly charged battery supports approximately 180 drops on a single charge. I always carry a spare battery pack for all my electric reels.
When jigging, sometimes you need to “match the hatch” – especially when gamefish are feeding on juvenile shrimp or squid and only a small offering will do. Having a lightweight power assisted rod and reel combo can be an effective tool when larger jigs just aren’t getting hit. They are also a lot less fatiguing when jigging for long periods. I suggest you have at least one such setup on board and in your arsenal along with a good selection of jigs in the 80-150 gram range to increase your odds when targeting finnicky fish.
Mark Ambert, IG @marksgonefishing_™ Gear Used:
Piscifun – Affordable fishing reels
https://www.piscifun.com/
FINS Braids – American braided fishing lines https://www.finsfishing.com/
The new AtlantiX by Piscifun.
Matching the hatch produces results.
This beautiful blackfin fell victim to an 80oz jig on ultra-light tackle.
Fishing Forecast with Freshwater
CAPT. JOHNNY STABILE
South Florida Fishing Charters • (954) 440-5200 • sflfishingcharters.com
Ihave mentioned it in previous years, but September is one of my favorite months to fish. With the kids back in school, the water is less crowded during the week, and there is plenty of opportunity to get on some fish. The consistent weekly rain has been great for spillway anglers, offering plenty of good-sized snook on the saltwater side to loads of peacock bass on any freshwater spillways.
GULFSTREAM CUSTOM RODS
Timothy Schmitz • www.GulfstreamCustoms.com • (561) 308-5308
The Lake Ida chain has been the best local fishing, with good numbers of peacock bass and clown knifefish. Lake Ida fishes its best with consistent weather; however, you can usually find a hot spot if you fish around. Key areas for finding fish this time of the year is to fish structure like residential docks or bridges. If you find an area holding fish, there’s a good chance there’s plenty of them. I have noticed some fish acting sluggish with these 90° water temps, so fishing live bait is your key to success. If you are like me and prefer to fish artificial, I have been doing really well with the Shimano Zumverno 95 SP; it’s a suspending hard jerkbait with some cool technology that continues flashing after you stop moving it. It’s been a killer for me in most colorways. Clown knifefish can be tricky, but if you are persistent, you will likely catch them. It’s best to familiarize yourself with the lakes contour and fish the ledges, edges, and bottom structure. Live bait is best if you want to soak baits, but I’m sure some of you don’t want to do that, so I have found a really proven technique to catch them on artificial. Clowns are bottom dwellers that sometimes grab a gulp of air. You will see these fish on the surface sometimes, but they will only eat on the bottom to just a few feet off the bottom. Dragging the bottom is one of just a couple of ways I have been successful in catching them. I take a 5” Z-Man StreakZ on a Texas Eye Jig head and drag the bottom with it. I have produced so many fish with this technique that I have started somewhat of a trend amongst artificial anglers. Using this method, the clown knifefish seem to thump this lure extra hard, and there is a fun fight on lighter gear.
Lastly, I have been back on the snakehead grind after a short break. Any pre-frontal conditions get these fish chewing. I love fishing a topwater frog over heavy cover and watching them come almost airborne chasing my lure. Snakeheads are skittish, so it’s best to creep up on them using a trolling motor. I prefer to cast my frog onto the bank and then slowly work it into the water as a real frog would do. You are 100% legally allowed to release these fish back into the water where you caught them. You can’t transport them alive. If you have one die on you, they make great table fare. Happy fishing!
Recently, I had an amazing experience and got extremely lucky. First time ever hand cranking for swordfish, I got tight in 5 minutes on the first drop and put a swordfish on ice. After fishing a few more hours, I noticed my buoy was totally under water. I fought this fish for about 2 hours on an LP, this guy was coming up to 300 revs then dumping the spool back down to 2000 revs and that is when I realized this was going to be a big tuna and not a swordfish. Back in March, I had a similar experience fighting a big tuna, but we lost him after 3 hours. I remember my good buddy Mike (@captmuttonmiked) telling me later that day that I should have pushed the drag more... so this time I did. The fish responded well and came right up. He was tail wrapped in the leader and had another bait hanging out of his mouth that he broke off from another boat! Catching a bigeye tuna 18 miles off the coast of Palm Beach, Florida is considered a once in a lifetime experience and I will never forget that day.
Daniel from Tuppen’s Marine with his first ever peacock bass.
Capt. Johnny releasing a beautiful male peacock bass.
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www.USHarbors.com Port Everglades, ICWW, FL - Sep 2024
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KAYAK Fishing Forecast
CAPT. BRIAN NELLI
Inshore
Mullet anyone? We should start to see the first waves of our fall mullet run in the later weeks of the month. The beaches will be where to start and as the month goes on, they will start to push in the Intracoastal. Drive the coast until you find a school of them and then find the nearest kayak launch. Try throwing an artificial lure that is the shape of a mullet, but a brighter or darker color to make it stand out. I like a Yo-Zuri Top Knock or D.O.A. Lures Bait Buster. Snook, tarpon, jacks, and sharks will be the main list of targets.
Offshore
The mullet run provides easy bait to run offshore with. I like to use finger mullet bottom fishing for mutton snapper and trolling for mahi mahi. Larger mullet in the 10-inch range are great for kingfish and sailfish. When you
looking to target snapper try using a leader in the 20-foot range tied to a Carolina rig or knocker rig depending on your drift. A longer leader is key when targeting bigger mutton snapper. If you are looking to hit the pelagic fish, look to slow troll the normal 90-200 foot of water with mullet, goggle eyes, or pilchards.
Freshwater
Keeping with the mullet theme, I also like to use finger mullet for peacock bass. Twenty-pound leader and a 2/0 circle hook casting in and around structure and weed lines will get you on a few. Clown knifefish will also be on the target list. Try fishing mid-water column and below by adding a pinch weight to your leader. Finger mullet and shiners will work well.
Newsweek Ranks our Local Lion Country Safari 1st Place in Top Ten Animal Encounter Awards
Lion Country Safari has ranked number 1 among the top 10 animal encounter attractions in the United States in Newsweek’s 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards. Nominations for the contest were carefully selected by an expert panel and winners are ranked by popular vote.
The list, released on August 8th, 2024, on Newsweek.com, ranks the top 10 parks to view exotic and endangered species from around the world. Lion Country Safari has been bringing the safari experience to families from across the country and across the world since 1967, when it was established as the first drive-through safari in the nation. The park cares for 85 different species from across the world and is also currently home to the largest herd of zebra on record in the western hemisphere, one of the largest herds of giraffe in the United States, and a large herd of rhinos with a long history of breeding success.
“We are thrilled to receive this high honor and are grateful to all of our supporters for voting for us. This accolade is a testament to our commitment to outstanding animal care as well as providing an amazing guest experience for the hundreds of thousands of guests we welcome through our gates each year,” said Jennifer Berthiaume, Vice President of Lion Country Safari.
Courtesy of Newsweek & Lion Country Safari
Angela with her first clown knifefish.
Wayne with a nice sailfish.
Ryan with his first wahoo.
Don with his first snook.
The offshore fishing has been really slow for us this past month. There are a few schools of mahimahi out there to be found, but you really have to work hard AND get lucky to find them. The action lately is on the reef and edge of the Gulf Stream. Bonitos and kingfish are tearing up the reefs and are
the year here in South Florida. A few of these sailfish are biting for us while trolling the reefs.
Wreck fishing will be very good this season also. Amberjacks are still stacked up on the 200’-300’ shipwrecks and are best caught by dropping live baits up current of the structure. Warsaw grouper, black grouper, and cobia are also biting on
easily caught on trolling planers with spoons and/ or sea witches. We’re also catching a few wahoo and blackfin tuna, which always seem to bite when you least expect them. While most of these fish are biting the deep planer baits, a few fish such as sailfish are more apt to hit the surface lures. Sailfish bite is the best during the fall and winter months, but they can be caught throughout
these same spots, if you can get your bait past the aggressive amberjacks. You can also catch a lot of vermilion snappers and smaller groupers by dropping a chicken rig baited with chunks of squid - a good way to catch a quick dinner. There will be some excellent fishing these coming days. Even though it’s slow offshore, there are lots of fish to be caught on the reefs.
Tight lines everyone!
Everglades national park fishing
with
CAPT. STEVE PURSER
FloridaFlatsFishingAdventures.com • (954) 687-5848
FloridaFlatsFishingAdventures@gmail.com
Fishing out in the Florida Bay with the GoPro on.
Fishing doesn’t get much better than fishing in the Everglades National Park. We do have a few nuisances but dealing with them is well worth it to get to areas where most Floridians have never gone before. You may encounter some mosquito issues near the ramp but jumping in the boat and taking off is the best choice. Some areas do have sharks that surround you but no worries if you stay in the boat. It’s very safe out there, I just wouldn’t recommend swimming as sharks do like to hang around the fishy spots trying their best to get your catch. If this happens you should move on because it’s not the greatest feeling bringing in a half-eaten snook. Recent trips have produced hundreds of snook caught this past month and redfish are in big numbers also. This month we are using artificial baits and flyfishing with pinfish imitation flys. In the mornings and late evenings, the top water bite has been phenomenal. Tarpons are still around and seem to never leave. You may see porpoise, manatees, and plenty of loggerhead turtles swimming around which makes the day exciting. Remember light clothing, a hat, sunglasses, a cooling rag, and plenty of water because it’s been extremely hot in the afternoons. Flamingo Everglades has two main drop-in ramps, one goes to the outside of Florida Bay, and the other ramp goes inside to Whitewater Bay, Coot Bay, and Tarpon Bay; there is so much water to cover here. You can drive 100 miles in the backcountry then head to the west coast Gulf side. You can cover all of this on a small skiff with just about no chance of waves or getting seasick and plenty of opportunity to catch big fish. To me, it’s a lot better than deep sea fishing in the middle of the ocean, although you should try them both out. I think you’ll be glad you came here to Flamingo Everglades National Park. You can catch all my videos on YouTube or Instagram under Florida Flats Fishing Adventures. Go check it out and book your next trip with me; mention Coastal Angler Magazine and get a 10 percent discount.
Calling All South FL Boaters for Winterfest 2024 Registration
Seminole Hard Rock
Winterfest Boat Parade is the “Best Show on H2O” and the traditional kickoff to the South Florida Holiday Season. This year’s Winterfest theme is “From Sawgrass to Seagrass: Waves of Holiday Cheer”. The parade will take place on Saturday, December 14th. Start time: 6:30 p.m. Roll Call starts at 4:30 p.m. Staging is along the New River. In 1988, community leaders decided to build upon the popularity of the Boat Parade and create a Not-forProfit organization that would make the Parade and all of its surrounding events into a worldclass community extravaganza. Broward County also benefits, thanks to Winterfest’s economic impact on the community of more than $50 million per year. Winterfest has a huge base of 300+ volunteers, supporters, and sponsors led by its Board of Directors. Since most Winterfest events are free to the public, sponsorships from local and national corporations and organizations provide the “fuel” to help run all Winterfest festivities. Our sponsors ensure the continued success and future growth of the Winterfest Celebration. For boaters who want to participate, there are many categories as in private or non-profit, government, commercial signage, charter, and showboat; entry fees start at $35. For more information visit https:// winterfestparade.com/boaters.
BRAGBOARD
Dan from Palm Beach County and a big 21lb peacock bass in the Colombian Amazon.
Electric Dave fished out of north Miami in 120 feet of water and caught this beautiful kingfish using live goggle eyes while kite fishing.
Steven O’Connor was in West End Bahamas and reeled in this awesome 50lb dolphin.
Ahmet and Murat with a nice kingfish they caught in Palm Beach with a ballyhoo troll.
Daniel with his first snakehead. Great fight and great catch!
Michael Nocca with a 20lb wahoo caught off North Palm Beach in 400’ of water.
Rachel Gomez caught a large peacock bass.
John Schulz and his daughter Kelly caught a 48.5lb mahi in 200 feet of water.
Ricky and Milana Gomez caught this large spotted gar in a Greenacres canal behind their house.
Daniel caught his first tarpon at Hillsboro Canal in Deerfield Beach using a live shiner.
7-year-old Natalie caught this nice catfish in Boca Raton.
Dan the Fireman with a 40” snook caught on a topwater in Jupiter with Captain Dale Ash.
By Wayne Johnson
past it before putting lines in the water.
Before I leave the boat ramp, I like to walk the dock, checking the direction of the tide and taking a good look for gamefsh or baitfsh. Either one indicates there is likely good fshing nearby and what hatch I may need to match.
DON’T PASS UP
FORGOTTEN FISH
How ofen do you load up your gear, tow your boat to the ramp, launch it and then go 100 yards or less, drop anchor and fsh?
Probably never.
I’m beginning to think nobody ever does. If you’re like me, you’re anxious to hit the throttle and head of to some distant location. You didn’t put all that horsepower on the back of your boat to idle 100 yards, but maybe you should.
I have frequently seen nice snook at the dock while launching my boat and then fail to see another fsh that good all day. It got me thinking that there has to be areas so close that boaters pass right by them, yet they are not accessible to shore anglers. Tese areas are also just up or down current from the docks where people clean fsh.
What if I just move a short distance from the boat ramp or across the canal? Tere must be some forgotten fsh that anglers blow right past every day. I started doing just that, and it usually turns out very well. What looks like heavily used areas are
not necessarily areas with heavy fshing pressure, and ofen they turn out to be quite productive. If they aren’t productive, it doesn’t matter. I didn’t burn much time or gas to try them.
Here on the west coast of Florida, south of Fort Myers, Lover’s Key is a great example of forgotten fsh. Afer launching, pretty much every boat heads straight for Estero Bay, to the passes or out into the Gulf of Mexico. Meanwhile, just a few yards in the other direction, I’ve seen redfsh, trout and snapper, and I put a friend on his personal-best snook. Tis spot is so close to the boat launch that even kayakers push
On a recent trip, I picked up a friend at his own dock, just of the Imperial River. We spotted a few fsh right there, and the fshing was so good that we never lef his canal the whole day. We caught four species within a quarter mile of his dock.
Typically, late in the day, when I’m headed back with a few lefover shrimp, I’ll stop just outside the pass and swap the smallest shrimp for ladyfsh. Or I’ll stop and throw a few more casts at some promising shoreline. It’s surprising how ofen I get a few good bites and a little excitement to end the day.
So, before heading out to your dream spot, or on the way back, try the nearby spots. You might just catch fsh everyone else forgot to fsh for.
Got a great fshing story?
Write it up and send with a few photos to editorial@coastalanglermagazine.com. We might just share it with the world.
WHEN HARD BOTTOM ISN’T ENOUGH
As the sun rises, the anticipation of a day on the water flls the air. Rods, tackle, and bait are loaded onto the boat, and the thrill of catching fsh beckons. But where should we go? Before we rush of, let’s explore our options.
If we’re going to be fshing close to the shoreline a few quick considerations will make for a more productive trip. Fish tend to congregate near structures that ofer both food and protection. Docks, wrecks, rip rap, pilings, and artifcial reefs create ideal habitats. However, these popular spots ofen sufer from overfshing, becoming less productive over time.
When the usual spots disappoint, consider rocky expanses known as “hard bottoms.” Tese rugged underwater landscapes provide excellent fshing opportunities. Even spear gun-toting divers appreciate their allure.
Beyond the basics, geographical opportunities present themselves throughout the Gulf of Mexico where vast and diverse bottoms ofers more than meets the eye. Natural formations, shaped by tectonic movements or volcanic activity, play a crucial role. Concentrations of fshable populations can be sparse, akin to desert patches in the
ocean. But structure in these areas remains key.
Te Desoto Canyon and “ Te Nipple” in the Gulf’s Desoto Canyon were formed by tectonic slip faults that plunge to uncommon depths. “ Te Nipple” is an intriguing part of this underwater landscape
near Destin, Fla. and remains a hotspot. Some speculate that its deep waters may also contribute to the area’s shark activity. Shipwrecks are silent havens. Shipwrecks, scattered across varying depths, serve as thriving habitats. Te skeletal remains of old vessels attract big game fsh like amberjacks and Goliath groupers. Tese submerged relics hold secrets and promise exciting encounters. Monoliths are underwater treasures. Tese underwater hills are jagged, solitary, and teeming with life. Monolithic structures encourage nutrient-rich currents to rise from the depths, attracting baitfsh. Predators patrol these underwater oases, seeking smaller prey. Don’t overlook them. Your sonar may reveal hidden fshing gems. Te Middle Grounds are a prime example: Located 100 miles NNW, the Middle Grounds exemplify monolithic fshing grounds. Here, the ocean’s secrets unfold, and every sounder blip could lead to a memorable catch.
In the vast expanse of saltwater, understanding these geological nuances can transform a fshing trip into an unforgettable adventure. So, load up your gear, set sail, and explore the mysteries beyond the shoreline!
Capt. Russ Walker is a USCG Masters licensed fshing guide and owner of Tide Walker Charters out of Cape Coral, FL. www.tidewalkercharters.com (239) 994-7818
Capt. Russ Walker
Geological features that infuence fshing in Gulf of Mexico’s Desoto Canyon.
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SKUZE SHOES: BOATING SHOES THAT DELIVER
As a life-long fsherman, I have tried and worn just about every type of boating shoe in the market. From fip-fops to sneakers and most of all, the big-name brands of deck shoes. Recently I attended ICAST in Orlando, the fshing industry’s annual convention where all things for fshing are on display for all attendees to view, and I found a company who claimed to have the best deck shoes ever made. I was surprised when the owner, Ted Alfen asked me to sit down and try a pair on. Wow, I am glad I did. Afer a brief walk around his booth and near the isle way, I decided to purchase them and give them a try.
Tese deck shoes are by far the most comfortable and lightest boat shoes I have ever worn. Te tremendous support of the removable inner sole is unlike most others in today’s market. Tey are also available in wide widths for those big fat feet like mine. Tey have fast drying, breathable mesh material and non-marking white soles with special slip resistant tread. Te materials used to create these are anti-microbial and made to be odor resistant, mostly due to their quick drying design. Tey have many styles, colors and designs to meet most anglers’ needs, so do yourself a favor and try a pair. Te Del Marina deck shoe from Skuze Shoes is top shelf! Visit Skuze Shoes in Pompano Beach, Fla. or check out their website at www.SkuzeShoes.com or email them at info@SkuzeShoes.com and tell them you read about their great shoes in Coastal Angler Magazine. Use promo code Angler 20 and get a 20% discount.
LESSINGER WINS COSTA’S CAPTAINS FOR CLEAN WATER 2024 STEWARD OF THE YEAR AWARD
The fght to protect Florida’s waters rests on the shoulders of the guides, anglers and business owners willing to join the frontlines and use their voice for change.
For the last six years, Captains For Clean Water has partnered with their fellow water warriors at Costa to acknowledge outstanding individuals that serve as stewards for clean water and make an impact in their community.
Tis year’s winner, Capt. Ozzie Lessinger, is a guide, conservationist, and true steward of our environment.
From educating his clients, to hosting fundraisers, to standing up for our waters in Tallahassee, Ozzie always goes above and beyond to spread awareness and make an impact in the fght.
“I can tell you that in my mind, I never feel like I do enough. As a guide and a steward of our water and our water quality issues, it’s so important— whether you’re one of the corporate partners, whether you’re a fsherman, or whether you’re a guide—to please just educate about Captains,” says Lessinger. “Stay informed, and let people know what it’s all about. It really just takes a few minutes to wear the hat and let people know.”
Tank you to Ozzie for all his eforts in spreading awareness of the mission to improve our fshing environments, and for continuing to stand at the frontlines in this fght for clean water!
And a big thank you to the other nominees for their inspiring impact in the efort to restore and protect Florida’s waters! Capt. Lessinger was nominated alongside fellow captains Cody Rubner of Stuart, Fla. and Brandon Cyr of Islamorada, Fla. Tey are both outstanding individuals that also serve as true stewards of clean water and make an undeniable impact in the fght to restore a national treasure.
For more information on how you can help support the ongoing eforts of Captains For Clean Water visit captainsforcleanwater.org.
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THE ORIGINAL SCENTED LURE
By Tracy Patterson
LADY ANGLER LANDS NEW WORLD RECORD BASS
Maguire’s frst work is a compelling, fast read. His style is like a mix of Hemingway with a sardonic blend of Hunter S. Thompson. I couldn’t put it down...
Ben Martin Editor in Chief Coastal Angler Magazine “ ”
Confessions of a Fishaholic, by Thatch Maguire, is a hilarious and irreverent look at one man’s quest to catch fish in spite of life’s annoying interferences. You’ll travel with this awkward adventurer as he risks home and health to pursue his passion for fishing...regardless of the consequences. Anglers of all expertise levels will immediately identify with why his addiction is incurable. This book defines the blurred line between passion and obsession.
Tournament angler Lee Ann Powell recently set a new IGFA world record with a 10 lb. 3 oz. bass caught on 10 lb. test. She was fshing (for fun) with her friend and charter captain Dalton Smith on O.H. Ivie Lake in Texas when they noticed a school of fsh on their livescope. Powell was using a Damiki jig with a 3 inch Fluke dipped in Spike It Chartreuse Cajun Dip N Glo. According Powell, “Once the big bass took the lure the exhausting fght to bring the monster bass to within netting distance required me to constantly adjust and reset the drag with my record catch going deep each time it neared the boat.”
Afer fnally netting it, Powell says they put the fsh in the live well and headed out to fnd a set of certifed scales to weigh it. Te requirements for registering a potential world’s record fsh are stringent and Powell says she almost missed her window/timeline for submitting her catch for authentication by the IGFA.
About the IGFA: Te International Gamefsh Association is a non-pro organization committed to the conservation of gamefsh and the promotion of ethical angling practices through science, education, record keeping and recognition of outstanding accomplishments in the feld of angling.
We salute the IGFA’s decision in January 2014 to create a separate category for female anglers, opening up thousands of categories for new World’s Record opportunities.
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CHOOSING THE CORRECT FISHING LINE
When it comes to spooling up your reels, the options are endless. For some this can be a bit overwhelming. Hopefully in this article I can help you understand what diferent kinds of lines are used for and what line strength is the best choice for you.
Te three main types of lines are monoflament, fuorocarbon and braided lines. Each has its pros and cons in diferent situations. Monoflament line foats, fuorocarbon sinks and most braided lines also foat.
I rarely use monoflament for bass fshing, but it does have its perks for a scenario or two. When throwing big heavy glide baits, I ofen spool my reels with a very strong 25- to 30-lb. monoflament, as it is very strong and much less prone to breaking on the cast when I am casting a large bait. I also ofen use mono for is a short leader when throwing a topwater bait with treble hooks. I attach about a foot of mono leader to the end of my braid, and it is less visible while also foating to keep a topwater working naturally.
Something to note about monoflament is it’s very stretchy, making it hard to drive the hook of many diferent lures into the mouth of a fsh, especially if you’re using straight mono and have a lot of line out. Te more mono you have out equals more stretch.
I use a lot of fuorocarbon in my arsenal
TYLER WOOLCOTT
of bass-fshing set ups. Tis line has virtually no stretch, it is more abrasion resistant than most other lines, and it is also a clearer line than anything else, making it harder for fsh to see. Unless I am fshing around extremely heavy cover, where braided line is needed to pull the fsh out, pretty much every reel
I use has fuorocarbon on it. I use anywhere from 10- to 20-lb. fuoro, depending on water clarity, types of cover, and the type of lure I am fshing. Braid also serves me well in many diferent applications. Having virtually no stretch, being very strong and extremely thin compared to other lines of the same strength, and outcasting every other line made are just a few perks of braid. Te downside of braid is it’s basically tiny thin rope, meaning if you are around clear water fsh can probably see it attached to your lure. In some cases, you will need a leader attached to the end of your braid.
Every single spinning reel I own is spooled with braid, which helps them cast better and operate much smoother than if they were spooled with the other kinds of lines. Typically, I’ll use 10lb. braid and attach a few feet of a fuorocarbon leader in a size of my choice to the end to keep it stealthy. I have 30- to 50-lb. braid on all my topwater treble hook baitcaster rods to make extremely long casts. When fshing around heavy grass and vegetation, I also use braid, typically in 50- to 65-lb. test. Tis strong line allows you to get the fsh out of the mess and into the boat. With your lure being in the grass, you can get away with using a thick braid, as the fsh won’t see your line around the vegetation.
Hopefully this helps you understand the diferent lines better and helps you put a few more fsh in the boat.
Tyler Woolcott is a professional tournament angler and guide. Check out his website at www.tylerwoolcottfshing.com.
September In The Florida Keys:
All To Yourself Paradise
September’s fshery in the Florida Keys can be unpredictable as we transition into autumn at the end of the month. Cooler northern waters will begin to push fsh back into their southern migration, while we maintain our usual summer species.
It’s always a sweeter deal running ofshore when the mahi are still around, giving more opportunities to diversify the fsh box. Tey will begin to phase out throughout the next several weeks, making this month the last month of the year to reliably target them.
Swordfsh and blackfn tuna are also excellent fuel-burn justifcations this month. With fewer boats on the water, the trafc at the Marathon humps will be less chaotic for targeting tuna.
Te reef fshing is always a good option. Te snappers are snapping year-round and seasonal harvest for black and red grouper are still open.
Tis is a great opportunity to dive for lobster as well, as the water will still be warm, but the excitement over opening season has died down. Te beginning of lobster season can turn our waters into an absolute zoo. It’s unnerving to even
By Capt. Quinlyn Haddon
suggest going out during that time and throwing yourself in the mix of that mayhem. Tat hype seems to gravitate mostly towards the mini season in July and the few weeks in August.
Each year when the kids are back in school, the Florida Keys takes a massive hit on tourism. We will experience the slowest time of the year over the next few months.
Although this may be a difcult time for working locals, it’s something to be enjoyed by our visitors. Te prices of accommodations will be as low as they get, restaurants will have ample seating, service will be quick, and best of all, no trafc!
Te furry of summer boaters trailering their rigs down from all over the country will have stopped, making both road and water trafc much more pleasant. Te fshery will experience less pressure, creating a mecca of hungry fsh, for those who are able to get out there.
Being in the middle of hurricane season likely
However, it’s a great time to make an impromptu trip, knowing you won’t have a problem fnding cheaper accommodations and availability for fshing charters.
Hurricane season may seem daunting, but there is more than enough notice ahead of any major storm. Locals are always diligently watching the weather for the frst sign of any potential disturbance and will be able to help you make decisions when booking last minute trips.
While September maybe be our slow season for tourism, that does not apply to our fshery. Come take advantage of having paradise all to yourself.
Capt. Quinlyn Haddon guides with Sweet E’Nuf Charters based out of Marathon, Florida Keys. www.captainquinlyn.com; IG: @captainquinlyn
A Time of Porpoise
Amemorable
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STRIPER ANGLER SNAGS RECORD PADDLEFISH
An angler trolling for striped bass hauled in a 127-pound, 6-ounce Arkansas state record paddlefsh on June 15. Te monster fsh came from Beaver Lake in northwest Arkansas, and it crushed the existing record of 118 pounds.
Mike Schleeper inked his name in the record books while trolling brooder minnows, which are large shiners, about 30 feet deep near a point on the 28,000-acre lake. His friend and fshing buddy Tom Mayberry was there to help during the 45-minute fght.
“I’ve been fshing for stripers up here for about 13 years, and I’ve had the chance to catch some stripers over 30 pounds, but this was diferent,” Schleeper said. “It didn’t strip line and stop in surges like big stripers do, he just sort of pulled the rod down and kept going. I couldn’t turn him, so we had to follow him with the trolling motor for about the frst 20 minutes.”
Once Schleeper did manage to sway the fsh in his direction, the fght continued for nearly another half-hour.
“It was a 45-minute fght altogether,” Schleeper said. “I’d thought maybe it was a really big striper, but then we could fnally see it a little bit. It looked like a giant catfsh at frst, but as we got it closer to the boat we realized what it was.”
Te giant paddlefsh had been hooked in one of its pectoral fns incidentally while the anglers were trolling. Snagged fsh ofen don’t count toward state records in many states, but paddlefsh are accepted because these fsh do not bite lures—they eat plankton—and catches on rod-and-reel are almost exclusively the result of snags.
When Schleeper and Mayberry fnally got the fsh to the side of the boat, they ran into a snag of their own.
“Our net wasn’t big enough for the fsh,” Schleeper said. “Tom wrestled with that fsh for a while trying to fgure out a way to get it in the boat. At one point I told him to just cut the line because it wasn’t worth it. Tom was adamant that we needed to get that fsh in and report it.”
Schleeper agreed with Mayberry and they fnally worked a rope through the fsh’s mouth to hoist it aboard.
“As soon as the fsh fell to the bottom of the boat, the hook popped free,”
Schleeper said. “We got really lucky.”
Paddlefsh are the oldest surviving animal species in North America according to fossil records. In fact, paddlefsh predate some dinosaurs (300 million years). Females may spawn only once every 4 to 7 years.
A recent regulation passed by the AGFC allows a limited, permit-based snagging season for paddlefsh in the White River portion of Beaver Lake from the Twin Bridges Access to the Lake Sequoyah Dam April 15-June 15.
Te world-record paddlefsh weighed 164 pounds, 13 ounces. It was caught by Chad Williams at Missouri’s Lake of the Ozarks in March.
For more giant fsh, go to coastalanglermag.com.
