WINTER FISHING TIPS
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navigating peace of mind
THE IMPORTANCE OF BOAT INSURANCE
Embarking on the open water is an exhilarating experience, flled with the promise of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a weekend cruiser, protecting your vessel with proper insurance is not just a choice—it’s a necessity. Explore the reasons why every boat owner should prioritize boat insurance for a worry-free voyage.
Unpredictable waters
The open water can be unpredictable, with unexpected storms, collisions, or other potential accidents. Boat insurance can give you fnancial protection if there is damage to your vessel, providing coverage for repairs or replacement.
Damage and injury
Accidents on the water can result in damage to other boats, docks, or even injuries to passengers. Boat insurance offers liability coverage, which can pay for damages or injuries you’re liable for while boating, up to specifed limits, and lawsuit costs if you’re sued. This includes damage you cause to another watercraft or if someone on or near your boat is injured and you’re found to be legally responsible.
Theft and vandalism
Unfortunately, boat theft and vandalism are realities that boat owners face. Boat insurance has comprehensive and collision coverage that can protect you against events outside of your control, including theft and vandalism.
Incurred medical payments
Accidents on the water may lead to injuries for you or your passengers. Boat insurance offers a range of optional medical payments coverage limits, helping to cover medical expenses if you are in an accident or someone is hurt on your boat, regardless of fault.
Peace of mind for fnancing
If you fnanced the purchase of your boat, most lenders require insurance coverage to protect their investment. Having boat insurance not only fulflls these requirements but also gives you peace of mind knowing that your fnancial interests are safeguarded.
Navigational fexibility
Some water municipalities and marinas may require proof of insurance for docking or accessing certain areas. Boat insurance allows you the fexibility to explore different destinations without worrying about entry restrictions.
Emergency towing and assistance
Progressive boat insurance can include optional Sign & Glide® On-Water Towing coverage. If your boat is disabled or breaks down on the water, Sign & Glide® pays for on-water towing, jump starts, soft un-groundings, and fuel delivery.
Wreckage removal
If your boat sinks, Progressive boat insurance will cover the cost of removing your boat from the water (if removal is legally required).
Investing in boat insurance is not just about protecting a valuable asset; it’s about safeguarding the memories, experiences, and joy that come with your on-water adventures. Don’t let unforeseen circumstances disrupt your journey—navigate with confdence, knowing that Progressive boat insurance has you covered. Ensure a smooth and worry-free voyage, because when it comes to your boat, peace of mind is the ultimate luxury.
Scan to get a quote in as little as 4 minutes
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MAHALO, RODNEY...
By Ben Martin, Editor in Chief
On December 11th at 3:00 p.m. the marine industry lost one of its kindest and most heartfelt supporters. A lifelong supporter of environmental awareness, the love of nature and teaching kids how to !sh, Rodney Smith was the earliest proponent of Florida’s groundbreaking net ban. He was the founder and publisher of the original Coastal Angler Magazine, creator and tireless volunteer of its Hook Kids On Fishing Program. Capt. Rodney Smith spent the better part of his life trying to improve the marine environment and sharing the wonders of the art and sport of !shing.
Rodney’s love and kindness was boundless.
Lifeguard, !shing captain, surfer, author, entrepreneur, and friend to all, Rodney Smith’s time on this earth was well spent helping others and showing love to Mother Nature and the marine environment.
Anyone whoever walked with Rodney would have invariably returned with a bag or pocketful of trash that he picked up along the way and then a erwards meticulously separated for recycling. Anyone whoever disparaged anyone else in Rodney’s presence would have immediately heard something positive about that person from Rodney. at’s just who he was.
Loving father, caring husband and faith driven entrepreneur, Rodney’s life was truly exemplary and saintlike. He will be missed, but he will also surely receive the same pat on the back and heartfelt “Good Job” that he gave to so many others while here.
The Water
Those Who Seek Simplicity & Smooth Performance On The Water
Powered by twins, it runs over 30 knots and cruises efficiently at 20-30 knots. It’s a versatile, no-frills boat focused on rock-solid performance. Ideal for those needing a reliable, easy-to-maintain platform.
Hightlights
Powered by twins, the 20CC runs over 30 knots and cruises efficiently at 20-30 knots.
It’s a versatile, no-frills boat focused on rock-solid performance. Ideal for those needing a reliable, easy-to-maintain platform.
Whether you’re fishing in a kayak, canoe, or small boat, the ePropulsion eLite 500W redefines your on-water experience with innovative features and commitment to sustainability. Designed to be the most
and lightweight electric outboard in its class, it is an easy-to-use alternative to small internal combustion engines for enthusiasts worldwide. Max 5.6 miles at half throttle and 3.5 miles at full throttle. Experience the eLite Difference. Go Electric. Go Silent. Go Fishing!
DISCOVER BOATING MIAMI INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 2025
A BOATER’S PARADISE AWAITS
The Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show (DBMIBS) is set to return from February 12–16, 2025, bringing an extraordinary showcase of the marine industry. is annual event continues to draw boating enthusiasts, industry leaders, and newcomers alike, o ering a combination of innovation, and community.
Highlights of the 2025 Edition
Spread across six iconic Miami locations—Miami Beach Convention Center, Pride Park, Herald Plaza, Venetian Marina, Museum Park Marina, and Superyacht Miami at Yacht Haven Grande—DBMIBS provides a multifaceted experience.
e Miami Beach Convention Center and Pride Park will host the latest in marine technology, boating gear, and vessels up to 49’’. On the water, Herald Plaza and Venetian Marina will feature a lineup of vessels, from sleek center consoles to high-performance powerboats.
A Boating Community Experience
e Progressive Boat Show Experience promises an engaging lineup of seminars, boating classes, and the popular AquaZone, an interactive space where attendees can test products and gain hands-on skills. For those looking to elevate their visit, Windward VIP tickets grant access to exclusive lounges, curated dining options, and concierge service.
Digital ticketing ensures a seamless entry process, with water taxis making it easy to explore the show’s sprawling venues. Water taxi tickets are sold separately.
From anglers to luxury yacht a!cionados, the show caters to all corners of the marine world. With its rich blend of exhibits, educational opportunities, and waterfront allure, it remains a must-visit event on the global boating calendar.
For more details and ticket options, visit www.miamiboatshow.com.
Cold Water Winter Fishing for Trout in the Smoky Mountains
By Joe Woody
When winter descends upon the Smoky Mountains, the streams and rivers transform into a serene and picturesque setting. For avid anglers, this season o ers a unique and rewarding opportunity to !sh for trout. Cold water !shing in the Smokies during winter demands preparation, knowledge, and patience, but the solitude and satisfaction of hooking a trout in these crisp conditions make it all worthwhile.
Trout are cold-water !sh, and they remain active during the winter, albeit at a slower pace. eir metabolism decreases as water temperatures drop, making them less aggressive and more selective in their feeding habits. During this season, trout tend to conserve energy by holding in deeper pools or near submerged structures where currents are slow and food is more accessible.
e Smoky Mountains, known for their pristine streams and diverse aquatic habitats, provide excellent winter !shing opportunities. e recent storm damage has not changed that, although access and former topographical structuring may be somewhat altered the !sh have adapted and so will anglers. Rainbow, brown, and brook trout can all be found in the cold, clear waters of this region, with brook trout being particularly prevalent in the higher elevations.
Winter !shing requires careful planning to ensure success and safety. e Smoky Mountains can get bitterly cold in winter. Dressing in layers, including moisturewicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outerwear, is crucial. Gloves and a hat are always a must: Nymphs, midges, and small streamers are excellent choices for winter trout !shing. Patterns like the Zebra Midge, Pheasant Tail, and Woolly Bugger o en prove e ective. Since aquatic insect activity is minimal in winter, imitating small and slowmoving prey is key.
clear, low water conditions. Using light tippets (5x or 6x) and uorocarbon leaders can improve your presentation and increase your chances of a hookup.
Focus on deeper pools and areas with slow-moving water. Dead dri ing nymphs under an indicator or slowly
Winter trout can be extra wary due to the
Townsend, this stream is a favorite among anglers for its healthy populations of rainbow and brown trout.
• Deep Creek: Known for its easy access just outside Bryson City, this area o ers a true remote !shing experience with just a short walk up its trail.
• Abrams Creek: Featuring clear waters and ample trout habitat, Abrams Creek is a reliable option for winter anglers
Winter trout are o en more active during the warmer parts of the day. Plan your trip to coincide with midday or early a ernoon. Low, clear water makes trout more alert to movement and noise. Approach the stream cautiously and keep a low pro!le. As any angler in these parts will tell you, always be mindful of slippery rocks and cold water. Wearing wading boots with good traction and a wading belt is essential.
retrieving a streamer can entice a bite. Pay attention to subtle strikes, as trout in winter o en feed so ly.
e Smoky Mountains are home to numerous streams, many of which are accessible year-round. Some top spots for winter !shing include:
• Little River: With easy access near
Fishing for trout in the Smoky Mountains during winter is a serene and ful!lling experience. e combination of tranquil surroundings, reduced crowds, and the challenge of cold-water angling creates an unforgettable adventure. With the right preparation and approach, you can enjoy the magic of winter !shing and make memories that will last a lifetime.
CHARTER BOOKINGS:
CALL THE CAPTAIN!
By Capt Quinlyn Haddon
Ihave been prompted to cover the topic of booking a charter a!er a recent experience I had that could have easily been avoided.
I was asked to work a charter with a company that I had never shed with before. e charter was booked last minute through a booking agency, that I will not directly mention. e notes of the booking repeatedly and clearly requested a full day o shore trip for yellow n. I went to meet with the captain, and helped him rig up for a tuna trip for the following day.
Yellow n tuna are not prevalent in the Florida Keys, but black n tuna are, so we informed the clients of this as we headed o shore in the morning.
Nearing the end of the trip, with a box full of tuna, the clients asked when we were going to get into the yellow n snapper.
e clients had wanted to sh inshore for yellowtail snapper, but they accidentally paid more for an o shore trip, simply because they used a booking agency and didn’t understand that yellow n and yellowtail were di erent species.
If you are wanting to book a charter, please call captains directly! Charter captains do not want to take you out on the water for a boat ride, we want to customize your day so you get the most out of it. Hearing about your expectations and helping answer your questions is paramount in our planning of your trip.
We do not do this job for the money, and most of us are scraping by. We have respect for what a big expense it is to book a charter. We understand that some groups may have saved up a long time to have this experience only once in their lives, and it is extremely important that we give you the trip you are looking for. We might even tell you to rethink the timing of your trip so you can come when your bucketlist sh is most targetable, something a booking agency knows nothing about. ey might be designed to take your money, but that is not what we are about.
If you nd a charter company you like through a shing booking agency, I would recommend going around them and calling a charter captain directly. Chances are that they have raised their prices to stomach the 30% fee the agency takes from them, and you can save money. Alternatively, they have not done so, and a direct call will put the money into the pocket where it belongs.
Booking agencies help ll the calendars, and for a lot of shermen whose strong suits are on the water, booking charters and advertising can be challenging. Some of the best captains have zero online presence. ere are a few agencies who aren’t as greedy as the one from this particular experience, and who may actually have knowledgeable people assisting you with your booking. However, nothing is going to beat speaking with the captain who you are hiring and sharing your day with.
We aren’t scary pirates or too busy to put in that phone time with you, and we are happy to connect with you before you book your trip. Give us a call!
Capt. Quinlyn Haddon guides with Sweet E’Nuf Charters out of Marathon, Florida Keys - (504) 920-6342. www.captainquinlyn.com; IG: @captainquinlyn
WINTER FISHING: SIZE OVER COLOR FOR SUCCESS T
By Capt. Michael Okruhlik
he question of lure size is a common debate among anglers, and while di erent situations require di erent approaches, one thing is clear: sh don’t read shing articles or watch YouTube videos. ey eat when they want, and as anglers, it’s up to us to adapt. In my experience, adjusting lure size is more important than focusing on color—especially in winter shing for coastal species like trout, red sh, and %ounder.
Size vs. Color
When things aren’t going as planned, many anglers immediately reach for a di erent color. However, I nd size to be the more important factor. Fish are typically feeding on prey of a speci c size, not necessarily a speci c color. In my experience, changing the size of the lure is usually more e ective than changing its color. If size doesn’t produce a bite, I might try changing the style of the lure next.
Changes in Estuaries
As winter approaches, our estuaries undergo several changes: cooler water temperatures, shi!ing forage patterns, less boat tra c, and o!en clearer water. ese changes create two schools of thought about lure size: go bigger or go smaller. Some anglers upsize their lures for the entire season, while others prefer downsizing. Both strategies can work, and I will utilize both methods.
Cooling Water and Fish Behavior
Cold fronts trigger cooling water temperatures and unpredictable sh behavior. Unlike the more consistent feeding patterns of stable weather, sh during early winter can make sh moody, switching between aggressive feeding and total inactivity. Late fall and early winter can be some of the best shing of the year, especially when schools of bait are %ushed out by falling tides. Hungry speckled trout and red sh follow these schools, and I prefer using smaller lures in these active feeding conditions. Fish are typically feeding on smaller prey like shrimp or shad, so a similarly sized lure is o!en the best match.
During these times, I also favor non-natural colors. When bait is abundant, sh can more easily spot a contrasting color, helping them target your lure amid the feeding frenzy. is is di erent from spring shing, where matching the color and size of the bait is key. In the fall and winter, standing out with an eye-catching color can be more e ective.
Clearer Water and Smaller Lures
Another reason for downsizing in winter is clearer water. In some bays, water visibility improves signi cantly during the winter, reaching depths of 6-7 feet of clear water. Fish aren’t accustomed to this level of clarity and can be more cautious. In these conditions, a smaller, less intrusive lure will o!en get more bites. When I can clearly see my lure bouncing along the bottom, a small presentation tends to be more successful.
Conclusion
Winter shing requires %exibility. By focusing on size and action rather than color, and adjusting to factors like water clarity and post-frontal conditions, you’ll increase your chances of success. Fish may be moody, but with the right approach, you can adapt and still catch plenty of sh.
Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures® and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.
ST. AUGUSTINE EDITION
Franchise Owners Eric & Gina Diesl
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Capt. Tommy Derringer St. Augustine-Inshore www.inshoreadventures.net
Capt. Robert Johnson St. Augustine-Offshore www.jodielynncharters.com
Capt. Kirk Waltz Mayport www.enterprisefishingcharters.com
Capt. Tony Bozzella Sisters Creek www.tonybozzella.com
Noel Kuhn Pier & Surf www.thesurfangler.com
Capt. Dominic Anderson Instagram: staugustine_fishing
WEBMASTER Ryan Clapper
DISTRIBUTION Bob Bueno
For advertising inquiries, Call Capt. Eric at 904-829-7571 or e-mail eric@coastalanglermagazine.com
Dear Readers,
Happy New Year! We hope you had a very Happy and Healthy Holiday Season! As we look forward to the coming months, many of us are already taking advantage of the fantastic fishing this time of year in Northeast Florida. From wahoo and bottom fishing offshore to redfish and trout fishing in the chilly, gin-clear waters of our inshore fisheries, there is something to catch for everyone of all angling abilities. So bundle up and get on out there!
We are pleased to announce that we will be starting several new sections this year including a kids only photo brag board page and a captains directory to help you locate some of the best charter captains and guides around in one location. Our contributing writers will be back again this year as well with great articles for your reading pleasure.
We are excited to share our Facebook page that will now feature more articles and links to local events happening throughout the month. www.facebook. com/CAMStAugustine> Please send in pictures ,tournament dates and ideas for articles to us at: gina@ coastalanglermagazine.com.
We currently have a choice of advertising options available ranging from print & digital to video & social. If you would like us to add your business to our monthly delivery route or any other assistance you may need, please contact us:
Capt. Eric Diesl - 904-829-7571
Eric@coastalanglermagazine.com
Gina Diesl - 904-540-2311
Gina@coastalanglermagazine.com
You will find our St. Augustine edition in print for free at over 200 fine local retailers every month as well as online at coastalanglermag.com & vidmag.com.
Until next month, we wish you tight lines and warm breezes.
- Capt. Eric & Gina
Fishing Report & Forecast St. Augustine Inshore
By Capt. Tommy Derringer
With water temperatures becoming chilly look for the inshore fishing to heat up. For me, the next few months are the most exciting time of year to target reds on the flats and creeks. As of report time we’ve had a dry winter and little rain and cold air temps are fantastic if you like to sight-fish… as much as I don’t like freezing my butt off, those cold temps will kill the algae in the water, resulting in gin-clear, sight-fishable awesomeness. It will be time to go to your favorite flat, put on your polarized Bajio sunglasses and start looking for fish. This time of year, you’ll get to sleep in and wait for the sun to get a little higher in the sky to warm up the water. Clearer water can mean spookier fish, so downsize your baits/lures for a stealthier approach. I like to pair a Saltwater Assassin paddle tail with a light weedless hook for those spooky redfish. On extreme low tides the redfish, trout and flounder will get schooled up in area creek holes. A live shrimp or mud minnow tossed into the depths will work wonders as it cools down.
When up on the flats, look for darker mud and oysterladen bottom to be holding redfish, trout, and flounder. These areas will warm up faster than others on sunny days; a
few degrees can really make a difference. Another benefit of dropping water temps is the redfish will start schooling on the flats. If you know where to look you can find huge schools of tightly packed redfish this time of year. Locate these fish from a distance by looking for “muds” (discolored muddy water caused by moving fish) and/or pushing wakes made by moving fish. Redfish singles and doubles can also be found sunning themselves in the shallows, especially along side and on top of oyster bars this time of year. These fish will be lazy so make sure to present your bait in a slow and methodical manner. When I spot a stationary fish, I like to cast long of him and at least a few feet to either the left or right of the fish depending on which way he’s facing. Then work the bait slowly back to where the fish is (this will help to not spook the fish). Sometimes they will like it moving a little faster and sometimes a little slower. It’s always fun trying to find the right approach.
Trout fishing has been great this past month and will continue to go strong. We’ve been catching some nice trout this fall/winter on topwater plugs but as it cools off one of my favorite trout lures is a soft plastic Saltwater Assassin paddle tail (Elite Shiner) rigged on a 1/4oz jighead. The jig, jig, pause method works best for me. Target creek mouths, ICW banks, and any type of structure with moving water and you’ll be sure to find some trout hanging out.
Sheepshead fishing has been good and should continue this month. Target area bridges, docks, and pilings with fiddler crabs to catch the tasty porgies..
Capt. Tommy Derringer 904-377-3734 • www.InshoreAdventures.net
Fuel up. Cast out.
Fishing Report & Forecast St. Augustine Offshore
By Capt. Robert Johnson
Cold Temps HOT Fishing
January is a great month for blue water fishing. Cooler water temps near shore will push pelagic species such as Tuna, Wahoo, Mahi and Sails to the shelf edge. Just like me, they do not like cold anything.
I look for water temps 72 and above. Find the temperature and bait and you will find the fish. If Tunas and Sails are targets, we pull naked ballyhoo on monofilament. The tried-and-
Fishing Report Pier and Surf
By: Noel Kuhn
Wow,last month was on fire because the water temperature dropped so fast. As of mid December it was down to 63 degrees. Brrrr! That rapid drop started a feeding frenzy, which included Pompano, Whiting, Black Drum and over sized Redfish! My biggest Redfish last month was 32”. My previous December best was 40”. Now the bad news about cold water. If it drops below 60 it will be time to regroup. You have at least three choices. First stay home and tie rigs. Secondly, get caught up on chores, such as rake leaves. Last and my favorite, road trip!
When planning a successful road trip, there are four apps that I use to land me in the strike zone. First, Google Sea Surface Temperature. My favorite is the color graph from Rutgers University. Search for an area between 65 and 75 degrees. Depending on how severe our winter is you will find
true cedar plug is hard for Tuna fish to resist.
If the fish are picky you may have to pull your rigs back to 200-250’ behind the boat – a lot of work but worth the results.
Sailfish typically show behind the teasers on short riggers and multiple bites are not unusual. Depending on water temperatures, there will be mahi around as well. Normally not as large as springtime fish –but the flip flops are still tasty and fun to catch.
On the bottom – mutton and vermillion snapper are available from 145’ out to 160’ and should be chewing! If you want a big pull, plenty of Amberjacks are available as well.
If you don’t like crowds and have a flexible schedule, pick your days in between the fronts and enjoy some of the best fishing NE FL has to offer!
Captain Robert Johnson
(904)540-2628
Jodielynncharters.com
Jlfishing@bellsouth.net
the sweet spot somewhere between New Smyrna and Vero!
Next is a wind app. My favorite is Windy. Their current and future cast has been invaluable when it comes to success. A southeast breeze between 5 and 10 MPH is ideal. However, anything less than 15 MPH is doable.
Salt water tides three, ST3 is very accurate for tides, moon and sunrise information. Luckily the farther south you go the smaller the tides are. Here in Duuuval our tides will be FIVE feet. Where in Vero or Sebastian they will only be TWO feet. Wherever you land, know your tides.
I also use the News 4 Jax weather app when choosing what city I am considering. Surfline is also helpful for wave height and frequency.
The photo is one of my favorite road trips in January. We fished just north and south of Sebastian inlet. The air temp was 80 and the water temp was 70. We caught so many fish! While the water temp here in Jax maybe too cold, a two to three hour road trip may be money! Get out and enjoy the bounty that our Florida winters can provide. Tight lines and screaming drags!
Noel Kuhn Surf fishing guide and long distance casting coach. 904-945-0660
www.TheSurfAngler.com
Fishing Report & Forecast Sisters Creek
By Capt. Tony Bozzella
Despite the cold weather, January could be some of the best backcountry site fishing for the entire year. Something you hear me talk about often, is the clarity of the water in January when the microorganisms die off, less rain and runoff, less boat traffic, and with less bait stirring up the soft mud on the flats, you can really see a Redfish, especially if the wind & weather cooperates. The best situation would be a low tide, midday low tide, high sun, and no wind. Of course, if you are poling a flat, try to keep the sun at your back and in the fishes eyes, and this will greatly improve the anglers chances of hooking up. Redfish, when not disturbed, are very territorial and will stay in an area for quite some time. It’s best to fish the fish when it is the exact time and conditions for the flat you have chosen to fish in other words, do not go to a flat before the water depth and conditions are the way you need them to make the proper presentation. Too many anglers try to force mother nature. You cannot go when things are good for the Angler or when your boat can float there etc. I can tell you as a full-time backcountry guide for almost 30 years, these scenarios will never work, and if they do work, I consider that to be lucky!
Whether you are hunting fish on the flats or a Whitetail buck in the woods, the conditions have to
be on their terms. As soon as an angler or outdoorsman understands this and accepts it he will be much more successful. Many of my half-day charters are 4 hours because I predict the best times when the species I’m targeting will feed. It’s not an all day thing, and at my convenience!! How to actually fish this time of year, I like two methods. Dead sticking in fishy areas in the back country around oyster flats and actually polling a flat and site fishing tailers or backers. For the artificial lure enthusiast, I like to use a TBS Black bucktail in an 1/8 or1/4 oz and if I’m fishing in extremely Shelly structured areas, I will fish a weedless dark colored soft plastic. If I’m site fishing, I definitely like to pull my clients to be as quiet and stealthy as possible. I try to lead the fish 3 to 4 feet and just twitch the lure as the fish approaches. Some of these methods require a little bit of an experienced angler. Accuracy and staying in tune with your bait since the boat is not anchored can be challenging, but not very hard if I am dead, sticking with shrimp or mud minnows, which are two of my favorite baits in the backcountry I like to stake the boat out and fish The rips (current around oysters)
Use a 30 inch piece of 20 pound floor carbon. Very important, since floor carbon is abrasion resistant and oysters have a tendency to cut lines!! I like to cast with in 2ft of the oyster bar and stay in tune with your lure, know what your bait is doing at all times !!!! Very important!!! Be prepared & wait for the bite. !
Capt. Tony Bozzella / TBS JIGS www.tonybozzella.com
904 651 0182
Fishing Report & Forecast Mayport
By Capt. Kirk Waltz
Theholidays have passed and our winter has set in. The water temps should remain somewhat stable and it typically means high 50’s to low 60’s. I really like this time of the year as it really thins the ranks of those true and blue die hard fisherman. The redfish will school up in the shallow creeks to seek food on the mud flats from the JTB Bridge up into Sisters Creek north to the Nassau River. Look for oyster bars, run outs, deep bends in the creeks and holes for most of your action. I like a nice warm weather window, light winds and clear skies for my best days. A high outgoing tide is best and I will throw a jig and shrimp combo for most of my trip to score. If the tide is moving let it carry the jig/shrimp down current. If it isn’t try pitching it by an oyster bar and giving it a slow drag by lightly lifting the rod every 30-40 seconds. Trout will also hit small gulp baits in new penny or white with a small twitch every few seconds. I prefer the swimming minnow/mullet in 3in best. Try to look for clean clear water for best results.
The big rocks at Mayport will give up some excellent fishing this month for trout speckled/yellow mouth/weakfish, sheepshead, reds, ringtails, black margates, and black drum. The trout bite better on high outgoing tides when the water is clear. I will fish both the inside and outside of the rocks with both live and artificial baits. A float rig works great and live shrimp and jigs are a close second. Again clear water is better for trout .This is one of the few times of the year to catch big trout on the rocks and lots of them. For reds, sheepshead, margates, drum and ringtails shrimp/fiddler crabs jig combos are my go to rig and are highly effective. Remember to be patient and work slow. The cool water makes ‘em a little slow and they will bite softly at times. A small nibble does not mean it’s a small fish! Sheepshead are big bait stealers and will nibble very slowly! A Shimano GLF Medium light rod with a Stradic 4000 is a excellent light tackle rod for those really light bites.
Ringtail porgies should be around this month at the tip of the rocks in fairly large numbers. Though not huge fish they are a scream on light tackle. With a really small mouth it’s important to use small hooks and small pieces of bait. A 1/8th oz jig works well or a small #1 hook and a split shot can be deadly. I like to break small live shrimp in two and cover as much of the hook as possible. Allow the rig to slowly sink with steady tension on the tip of the rod. When you feel the tell tale bump.. bump set the hook. Prize fighters for their small sized they also make excellent table fair.
The big black drum will be around the rocks and we fish for them in deep water along the channel edges. A quarter piece of blue crab is effective as well as a nice piece of shrimp. The last of the incoming and outgoing tides are best. Try anchoring at the tips of either the north or south rocks along the edges of the rock wall drops as they fall into the channel. A stiff rod with and egg sinker rig or the 3-way swivel rigs work well. Remember they have a mealy mouth kinda bite so don’t set the hook as soon as they start the nibble process. Use only enough lead to pin the bait to the bottom. I find current is a must to get them to bite well.
Get out and fish and remember you can’t catch them from the couch!
For more fishing tips listen to the Outdoorshow radio program on 1010am or 92.5fm every Saturday from 7am to 10am. He can be reached at 904.241.7560 or 904.626.1128 or go to www. enterprisefishingcharters.com
JAN2025
MON 01:06 AM -0.84 L 07:38 AM 5.38 H 01:50 PM -0.53 L 08:00 PM 4.37 H 14 TUE 01:55 AM -0.92 L 08:25 AM 5.33 H 02:34 PM -0.56 L 08:46 PM 4.41 H 15 WED 02:41 AM -0.86 L 09:09 AM 5.20 H 03:16 PM -0.50 L 09:29 PM 4.41 H
16 THU 03:26 AM -0.66 L 09:51 AM 5.00 H 03:57 PM -0.37 L 10:12 PM 4.38 H
17 FRI 04:11 AM -0.35 L 10:31 AM 4.76 H 04:38 PM -0.18 L 10:55 PM 4.34 H
18 SAT 04:58 AM 0.01 L 11:11 AM 4.49 H 05:19 PM 0.04 L 11:37 PM 4.29 H
19 SUN 05:46 AM 0.36 L 11:52 AM 4.21 H 06:01 PM 0.27 L
20 MON 12:20 AM 4.23 H 06:37 AM 0.66 L 12:34 PM 3.95 H 06:45 PM 0.49 L
22 WED 01:55 AM 4.13 H 08:26 AM 0.99 L 02:15 PM 3.52 H 08:23 PM 0.76 L
23 THU 02:53 AM 4.11 H 09:23 AM 0.99 L 03:15 PM 3.42 H 09:17 PM 0.74 L
24 FRI 03:54 AM 4.17 H 10:19 AM 0.88 L 04:16 PM 3.44 H 10:14 PM 0.59 L
25 SAT 04:52 AM 4.32 H 11:13 AM 0.66 L 05:12 PM 3.57 H 11:09 PM 0.31 L
26 SUN 05:45 AM 4.54 H 12:02 PM 0.36 L 06:02 PM 3.77 H
27 MON 12:00 AM -0.06 L 06:34 AM 4.80 H 12:47 PM 0.01 L 06:48 PM 4.01 H
28 TUE 12:47
21 TUE 01:05 AM 4.17 H 07:31 AM 0.88 L 01:21 PM 3.71 H 07:32 PM 0.67 L
Advertising Account Executives -- Coastal Angler Magazine is seeking experienced Advertising Account Executives in St. Johns, Flagler or Putnam County. Our ideal candidates will have a minimum of two years’ previous advertising sales experience and be familiar with the creative requirements of the advertising field. We are looking for advertising industry professionals who understand relations selling and who can manage multiple accounts and professional fol low-up as part of a daily routine. In an era when other print publications are shrinking, Coastal Angler Magazine, through its co-publisher business model, has achieved exponential growth and industry l eader status. Qualified candidates interested in the position should submit a one-page resume to the contact information provided.
February 8th, 2025 to March 23, 2025
Northeast Florida Wahoo Shootout
Registration Deadline: Early entry deadline is December 31, 2024. General entry deadline is January 30, 2025. Late Entry deadline is February 7, 2025 Www.wahooshootout.com
February 22, 2025
EL Cheapo Sheepshead Tournament www.jaxfish.com
June 2025
Jacksonville King Buster KIngfish tourney June 25
June 2025
Daily’s Old School Kingfish Shootout –Presented By Yellowfin * www.oldschoolkingfish.com
July 2025
Ancient City Gamefish Association Challenge https://www.acgfa.com/
tournament
eric@@coastalanglermagazine.com
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By A. deGruchy
GULF FISHING! Wintertime
If you’re looking for an unforgettable start to a 2025 adventure, Islamorada is the place to be. Known as the “Sport!shing Capital of the World,” this gem in the Florida Keys o ers easy access to the Gulf of Mexico, where the waters are packed with some of the most exciting !sh around: cobia and permit.
Cobia are a favorite for good reason. ese !sh are curious, strong, and put up one heck of a !ght. You’ll o en !nd them hanging out near wrecks, buoys, or even %oating debris, and when they bite, you’ll know it. ey can grow up to 60 pounds, so get ready for a battle when one hits your line. ey also make excellent table fare! We are coming up to the best months to target cobia, so de!nitely keep this species in mind when booking a charter.
Permit !shing is next-level stu . ese sleek, silver beauties are as smart as they are strong, making them a bucket-list catch for many anglers. ey love to hang around wrecks and %ats, and they’re picky eaters. ey love crustaceans, but o en get spooked so your casts must be close to perfect. e real thrill of !shing for permit is in the chase. Spotting a permit tailing in the gulf waters, casting just right, and then feeling that line go tight is pure adrenaline. ey’ll test your patience and your skill, but the payo is worth it.
For the ultimate Gulf !shing experience in Islamorada, check out Bean Sport!shing. Capt. Bean specializes in targeting cobia and permit, ensuring a day on the water you’ll never forget. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a !rst-time angler, his expertise and passion for !shing will make your trip both exciting and successful.
To book a charter, visit www.beansport shing.com. You can also nd Capt. Bean on Instagram @bean_sport shing.
THE NEW YEAR BRINGS NEW OPPORTUNITY
Tim Barefoot
As winter deepens, cooler waters push more !sh o the beaches and toward the warmer edges of the Gulf Stream. With grouper and snapper now o -limits due to regulations, it’s time to shi our focus to productive species still on the table—trigger!sh, vermilion snapper (beeliners), and seabass. For those looking to venture even deeper, deepdropping remains an exciting option.
e December full moon o en marks a turning point in !shing. Grouper and speckled trout seasons wind down, leaving anglers to adapt to what the regulatory environment allows. Fortunately, the stacks of triggers, beeliners, and pelagics in deeper waters o er excellent opportunities. Start your search around the 150-foot mark and use your !sh!nder to locate promising spots.
Tools of the Trade
For precision !shing, modern tools like spot-lock trolling motors—such as the Rhodan or Minn Kota—are game changers. ese motors allow you to hover directly over schools of !sh with ease. However, they can be limited when deploying a kite, as the wind necessary for kite !shing can drain trolling motor batteries quickly. at’s
where anchoring, a classic yet e ective technique, comes into play.
Yes, anchoring may feel like a step back for those spoiled by spot-lock motors, but it’s a reliable method for staying on productive marks without straining batteries. Once anchored, consider adding a kite to your !shing arsenal. Kites are particularly e ective for enticing leader-shy species like yellow!n tuna and wahoo. When properly deployed, they minimize visible leader material in the water, o en resulting in immediate strikes.
Teamwork and Preparation
provide hardy, versatile bait. Supplement your live bait with cast-netted !sh to use as live chum or cut into chunks.
A sabiki rig is another indispensable tool. Jigging up live bait at your !shing spot o en produces exactly what predatory species are feeding on. Don’t hesitate to use small snapper, grunts, or other bait!sh you catch with a sabiki as o erings on your light line or kite. Wahoo, for example, have been known to eat everything from full-sized grunts to snapper. Frozen or fresh Spanish mackerel also make excellent bait for wahoo and tuna.
Successful kite !shing requires teamwork. Assign one crew member to manage the kite and bait while others focus on !lling the cooler with trigger!sh and snapper. Proper setup is essential. Bring live bait from inshore or nearshore waters; cigar minnows, sardines, pin!sh, and menhaden are excellent choices. A pin!sh trap can also
The
Experience Fishing during this time of year is about more than just !lling your cooler; it’s about enjoying the process and making memories. Whether you’re targeting bottom-dwellers like trigger!sh or keeping a light line out for the chance at a wahoo or tuna, the key is to stay adaptable and prepared. As always, take the kids along and capture plenty of videos of your adventures. Fishing is more than just a hobby— it’s a way of life.
For more from Tim Barefoot, visit barefootcatsandtackle.com and check out his YouTube channel.
Junior Angler Breaks World Record with Massive Payara
At just six years old, Nathan “Bibil” Barreto is already making waves in the angling world! On July 8, 2024, while !shing Brazil’s iconic Juruena River, Nathan landed an incredible 11.79-kg (26-lb) payara. is catch shattered the IGFA Men’s Smallfry World Record for the species.
Nathan hooked the record-setting payara using cut bait, showcasing his growing skills as an angler. A er verifying the weight on a certi!ed scale, he ensured the safe release of this magni!cent !sh. Nathan’s actions not only highlighted his talent but also demonstrated that conservation is a value no angler is too young to embrace.
What Are Smallfry World Records?
e International Game Fish Association (IGFA) has established guidelines for Smallfry World Records to encourage young anglers. Here’s what you need to know:
• Species: Records are maintained for the heaviest !sh of any eligible species.
• Age: Categories exist for male and female anglers aged 10 years and under.
• Weight: Fish do not need to be weighed on land, as long as the weight is veri!ed appropriately.
• L ine Class: Records are recognized for all line and tippet classes covered under IGFA rules.
• Other Rules: All IGFA International Angling Rules apply, except for the standard weighing requirement.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Encouraging young anglers to aim for world record catches—or simply to submit outstanding catches for consideration—o ers a fantastic opportunity to foster a love of !shing. e IGFA’s Smallfry division plays a vital role in promoting the sport among young enthusiasts.
Taking a kid !shing doesn’t just teach them valuable skills—it can improve their lives and create unforgettable memories. Who knows? You might even help them reel in a world record!
For more information on the IGFA Smallfry records division, visit www.IGFA.com.
Braid vs. Monofilament Fishing Line: Which Is Best?
Choosing the right !shing line is crucial for success on the water. Two popular options— braided and mono!lament lines—o er distinct advantages, and your choice o en depends on your !shing style, target species, and conditions. Let’s compare their strengths and weaknesses to help you decide.
Braided line stands out for its high strength-todiameter ratio. Its thin pro!le allows for less drag and greater line capacity on reels, making it ideal for deep-water !shing. For instance, a 30-pound braid can match the diameter of an 8-pound mono!lament. Mono!lament, while thicker, provides added durability and is o en preferred in situations requiring extra shock absorption, such as battling !sh with sudden, strong runs.
Braid has minimal stretch, giving it superior sensitivity. is makes it perfect for techniques like jigging or bottom !shing, where detecting subtle bites is crucial. It also enhances hook-setting power. On the other hand, mono!lament’s stretch acts as a cushion during hard strikes, reducing the risk of breakage.
Mono!lament generally o ers better abrasion resistance, making it a top choice in areas with rocks or heavy cover. However, it is prone to UV damage over time, which can weaken the line.
Braid is more resistant to UV exposure but can fray easily when rubbed against rough surfaces.
Braided line’s thin diameter and lack of stretch give it an edge for long-distance casting, especially in open water. However, mono!lament’s low visibility underwater makes it advantageous for targeting skittish !sh in clear water. To counter braid’s visibility, many anglers use a uorocarbon leader.
e choice between braid and mono depends on your needs. Braid excels in strength, sensitivity, and casting, while mono shines in shock absorption, abrasion resistance, and stealth. Many anglers carry both to adapt to various scenarios or use a braid mainline with a mono or uorocarbon leader for versatility.
Ultimately, knowing when to use each type can make all the di erence in your !shing success.
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