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EDITOR : Nick Carter • editorial@coastalanglermagazine.com WEBMASTER : Dmitriy Pislyagin • webmaster@coastalanglermagazine.com ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: Corporate Headquarters info@coastalanglermagazine.com • 888-800-9794 BIG BEND : Mike McNamara • (850) 510-7919 • captmike@coastalanglermagazine.com BREVARD : David String • (321) 684-5888 • dstring@coastalanglermagazine.com DAYTONA/NEW SMYRNA BEACH : Don Meadows • (407) 960-2340 • donm@coastalanglermagazine.com FLORIDA KEYS : Ed Gocher • (305) 587-9101 • ed@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT LAUDERDALE : Gene Dyer • (954) 680-3900 • gene@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT MYERS : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER MIAMI : Scott Deal • (561) 945-6999 • scott@coastalanglermagazine.com Monica Isaza-Deal • (561) 945-8899 • monica@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER ORLANDO : Phillip & Giselle Wolf • (407) 790-9515 • phillip@coastalanglermagazine.com LAKELAND & SUMTER : Mary Flaitz • (352) 598-4219 • maryf@coastalanglermagazine.com NAPLES : Mike Weber • (414) 531-4172 • mikew@coastalanglermagazine.com NC FLORIDA/NATURE COAST : Cary & Lynn Crutchfield • (352) 372-4237 • crutch@coastalanglermagazine.com NE FLORIDA : Danny Patrick • (904) 742-4696 • danny@coastalanglermagazine.com OKEECHOBEE : Ken Gabryel • (863) 532-3671 • keng@coastalanglermagazine.com PANAMA CITY/FORGOTTEN COAST : Randy Cnota • (229) 834-7880 • randyc@coastalanglermagazine.com PALM BEACH COUNTY : Barbara Ryan • (561) 373-8040 • barbara@coastalanglermagazine.com SARASOTA : Phil Prevoir • (239) 257-4684 • pprevoir@coastalanglermagazine.com TAMPA BAY : Chuck Atkins • (239) 464-5153 • chuck@coastalanglermagazine.com TREASURE COAST : Misti & Gary Guertin • (772) 285-6850 • treasurecoast@coastalanglermagazine.com flahama@coastalanglermagazine.com
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Catching Winter Cobia In The Keys By John Steinhorst
F
ebruary through April offers some of the most productive fishing of the year in the Florida Keys. An amazing variety of migratory fish species travel to the Keys as cold water temperatures push them south in the Gulf of Mexico and on the east coast. The most convenient place to base a Keys fishing adventure is directly out of Marathon, which comfortably rests in the middle of this tropical island chain. Marathon encompasses a unique collection of islands, creating the ideal boating and family destination with access to both ocean and gulf waters but far enough from the crowded streets of Key West. Capt. Chris Morrison, a 20-year Keys veteran who guides out of Marathon, enjoys hooking excited anglers up with these hungry migrating species, which include record-breaking cobia, king and Spanish mackerel, trophy sailfish and several species of jacks. Versatility is the name of the game, and options are abundant. Most often the best plan is to just decide where you want to fish, from the immense Gulf or blue ocean waters to the many reefs and wrecks surrounding the islands. Then be ready for anything when you get there. There are several techniques that work for each species, and Morrison utilizes a wide variety to keep his 8
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Temple Fork Outfitters’ Gary Loomis Inshore boat, although cobia sometimes swim with bull sharks and rays. Start drifting live shrimp back Series rods bending and his clients smiling. Live bait and jigs are most productive to with light monofilament leader and small hooks, ensure positive results. Pinfish and live shrimp and you are bound to get action from one of are among the easiest to obtain, since most local several species of snapper. If you start getting bit bait shops carry them. Deep jigs, such as butterfly off clean, add a piece of leader wire and you will types, and ¼- to 1-ounce bucktails are essential likely get hooked into a cero or king mackerel. to carry in your arsenal. For catching cobia, If you decide to fish the bay or gulf side of the present the pinfish on ocean-side wrecks and Keys island chain, you might want to anchor reefs as well as Gulf waters from 15 to 100 feet in 10 to 15 feet of water and hang that chum using the same rig for grouper down deep. Limit bag for landing Spanish mackerel. Head out to is one per person with a 33-inch size minimum. deeper Gulf waters and expect more cobia, king On sunny days, Morrison likes to spot cobia mackerel, and goliath and gag grouper. The with his polarized sunglasses from the tower of wintertime fishing action in the Florida Keys will his SeaVee boat above the reef line or in blue be sure to heat up your reel. If you need an expert light-tackle fishing water when a color change edge is present. When you see a cobia on the surface, cast the bait in guide, Capt. Chris Morrison has guided anglers front with no weight and at least 60-pound to more than 100 world records and received monofilament leader. Wire is usually necessary a Lifetime Achievement Award from the on your jigs as king, Spanish, and cero mackerel International Game Fishing Association. Visit are numerous throughout these prime fishing www.captchris.com for more info. grounds. John Steinhorst has contributed to many If you do not have a guide, the reef line on the ocean side from 25 to 40 feet is a good place publications during the last 20 years and can to start. Anchor and hang a chum bag over the be contacted at www.JohnSteinhorst.wix.com/ IslandMedia. side with ground-up frozen baitfish. Chum brings the For more Cobia fishing in the Keys, go to party to the back of your COASTALANGLERSALTWATER.COM
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Captain Fantastic.
How have so many of Marathon’s light-tackle guides achieved super-hero status? Because whether it’s tailers in the shallows, migrating tarpon out front or snook and redfish out back, our professional captains come to the rescue by putting you onto some amazing angling action. fla-keys.com/marathon 1.800.262.7284 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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RodsandReels Product Review AVET REELS SXJ 6/4 RAPTOR Since 1999, Avet Reels has been bringing to the market revolutionary reel designs that set the standard for performance. Their innovative SXJ 6/4 Raptor lever drag casting reel features Avet’s patented dual carbon fiber drag system, which produces twice the drag of the original Avet reels. The powerful system features adjustable strike pre-set and a strike stop button to prevent accidental advancement. The reel’s one-piece frame is precision machined 6061 T-6 marine grade aluminum with stainless steel components and is anodized for superior corrosion resistance. An offset machined handle arm reduces center-line profile and cranking wobble and is capped with a comfortable soft-touch handle knob. The two-speed transmission has a user-friendly shifting mechanism. Avet’s silent dog and gear anti-reverse system and M.C. Cast adjustable magnetic anti-backlash cast control system, both patented, are some of the most innovative and reliable in the industry. The SXJ 6/4 Raptor has nine stainless ball bearings, an alarm clicker and a light, narrow spool designed for optimal jig casting efficiency and less line leveling on the retrieve. It’s proudly made in the U.S.A.
CANYON REELS EX-80 TWO SPEED TROLLING REEL In case you hadn’t heard, Canyon Reels has redesigned its powerful EX-80 Two Speed Trolling Reel to give anglers the edge when pulling spreads for huge fish. The original EX-80 was extensively tested and matched up very well against the giants off the Northeast coast. When the captains made suggestions, Canyon listened, and the result is an even better EX-80, which features multiple upgrades that make it smoother, and easier to use. The EX-80 is a monster reel. It boasts a max drag of 105 pounds at strike and more than 155 pounds at full drag. A pre-set feature allows for accurate drag settings with an easy one-touch shifter. Upgrades include additional harness lugs that provide better balance control, an all new double drag system for drag runs that are even smoother than the original, and an oversized T-bar handle for additional cranking power. Several other improvements have also been made to increase the durability of this already remarkable reel. The end result is an incredibly smooth and user-friendly reel with the power to stop any fish in the ocean.
WWW.AVETREELS.NET
WWW.CANYONREELS.COM
ENIGMA HPT TITANIUM CASTING RODS
JP ROSS BEAVER MEADOW
Enigma Fishing is raising the bar on performance, while lowering the price point. Every aspect of their HPT Titanium Casting Rods were designed with extreme attention to detail. These high-performance tournament level rods are designed with premium, ultra-light Japanese Toray Carbon proprietary blend blanks. The HPT rods were designed and tested with input from professional anglers such as three-time Bassmaster Elite Series Angler of the Year, Aaron Martens. Enigma Fishing has customized and precision balanced each individual HPT rod to be ultra functional, exceptionally beautiful and tailored to exacting actions and specifications demanded by today’s tournament anglers. All rods feature premium American Tackle components, including the multiaward winning MicroWave Line Control System, which increases casting distance and accuracy. The blank-through reel seats offer finger-to-blank contact for unparalleled sensitivity and incredible ergonomics and palmable comfort, while further reducing weight as well. Premium cork grips balance out each rod perfectly! Enigma Fishing’s new HPT series features a sleek black rod blank, cork handles, stylish purple wraps and chrome accents. Delivering technique-specific performance second-to-none, the all-new HPT series raises the bar for all others!
WWW.ENIGMAFISHING.COM
MUD HOLE TURNKEY INSHORE ROD KIT
The JP Ross Beaver Meadow is a fly rod meticulously designed to fish the beaver dams and plunge pools of small trout streams where an 11-inch fish is a trophy. That’s not to say this rod can’t handle an 18-inch brown on big water, but blue lines are where it shines. It is a short, sensitive rod with the feel needed for the gentlest of nibbles but enough power to reach out 50-plus feet with a hopper-dropper rig. The Beaver Meadow is available in a 5’ 2/3-weight, two-piece and a 6’6” 2/3-weight four-piece for fishing small streams with wet flies and dry flies. The 6’6” also has the ability to cast medium weighted streamers. The 7’6” 4-weight four-piece, the 7’9” 3-weight fourPhoto by Draper White piece, and the 8’0” 5-weight four-piece all have the shorter length required for tight quarters but the backbone to land larger fish and cast streamers and multi-fly rigs. JP Ross rods are custom-made by hand in Upstate New York. Each rod is made to order, so the details are exquisite, and components can be customized from the grip and reel seat to the guides and thread color. The Technology used to achieve this awesome balance of sensitivity and power is breakthrough technology, the joining of carbon fiber and fiberglass that JP Ross calls Carbon Silica Hybrid interface. It makes a beautiful casting and wonderfully sensitive rod.
WWW.JPROSSFLYRODS.COM
Mud Hole Custom Tackle is offering amazing value with its inshore fishing rod building kit. This turnkey kit includes everything you need to build your own custom inshore trout and redfish fishing rod. The kit features the extremely popular and versatile SJ842 rod blank. This 7’0” medium-light power rod features a fast action for throwing soft plastics and topwater lures at wary flats fish. Along with the blank, the kit includes a matched guide set, handle kit and everything from the CRB Wrapper, a CRB rod dryer and ProPaste and ProKote Rod Finish along with all the tools needed to build your own custom rod. This is a great set for the avid fisherman who wants to take his or her fishing to the next level. To get started custom building your own high quality rod, visit www.mudhole.com and check out all our Turn Key Kit options or simply Google: Mud Hole Turnkey.
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RodsandReels Product Review OKUMA KOMODO SS BAITCAST REELS
The original Komodo 350 size baitcast reel has been the recipient of tremendous accolades. It is considered an extremely tough reel and an excellent value. For 2017, the Komodo family welcomes the Komodo SS, featuring a new 450 size and stainless steel drive system. The Komodo SS is built around a heavy-duty stainless steel main gear, pinion gear, drive shaft and spool shaft to deliver an internal foundation of unrelenting strength and corrosion-resistance. Komodo SS reels use rigid, machined aluminum frame and spool, aluminum side plates, high-output Carbonite drag system capable of a maximum drag output of 30 pounds, and updated 6-pin Velocity Cast Control System. Performance features include six or seven (depending upon size) stainless steel High Performance Bearings, plus roller bearing, for outstanding corrosionresistance. The synchronized level-wind system does not disengage for casting, which allows it to maintain alignment at all times and eliminated drag pressure spikes when using braided lines. Bait clickers are standard on all models. The Komodo SS series includes two sizes, 350 and 450. The 350 size includes a 6.4:1 gear ratio and maximum drag output of 25 pounds. There are four models in the 350 size. The 450-size Komodo is available in a 6.3:1 gear ratio and a hyperfast 7.1:1 ratio. Komodo SS series baitcast reels are covered by the Okuma 3-Year Limited Warranty.
WWW.OKUMAFISHING.COM
UGLY STIK BIGWATER SERIES Ugly Stik has refreshed its iconic Bigwater series with all-new Ugly Tuff saltwater guides and an updated look. Beginning with Ugly Tech construction, the Bigwater series maintains the toughness for which all Ugly Stiks are known. One-piece Ugly Tuff stainless steel guides eliminate insert pop-outs and provide durability and corrosion resistance for those harsh saltwater applications. The Bigwater series retains the traditional Ugly Stik Clear Tip design for more strength at the tip of the rod. Comfortable EVA handles and conventional reel seats give anglers a non-slip, comfortable grip no matter the conditions. The fly, standup, downrigger/dipsy diver, surf, spinning and casting models have also been upgraded to include a standard seven-year limited warranty. Four Bigwater spinning combos and two trolling combos for downrigger applications are also available. The combos feature a graphite spinning reel, available in sizes 50, 60 and 70, and have a durable aluminum spool. The reel featured on the Bigwater downrigger combos is a size 30 line counter round reel with a metal handle and power knob.
PENN SLAMMER III The Penn Slammer III, which won Best of Show in the saltwater reel category at iCast 2016, is the reintroduction of the heavy-duty reel that has become trusted by charter captains around the world. Slammer III reels feature a new IPX6 Sealed System, which keeps water out of the gear box and drag system in heavy spray and sea conditions. An updated Slammer Drag System now utilizes a proprietary Dura-Drag material. With the computer-controlled CNC gear technology system, the precision brass main, pinion and oscillation gears are individually machined for exact tolerances to provide the smoothest operation. Eight models of the Slammer III are available, ranging in size from 3500 to 10500 models. Gear ratios range from 6.2:1 with 37 inches of line retrieve on the smaller reels to 4.2:1 with 43 inches of line retrieve on the largest. Maximum drags start at 30lbs in the smaller models and run to 60lbs on the largest. The oversized reel handle grip gives the angler added control during the fight. The 3500 Slammer III is the smallest of the family weighing 13.9oz while the 10500 weighs 43.1oz.
WWW.PENNFISHING.COM
DANCO BAIT STIK Danco’s Bait Stik is the original rod and reel combo developed specifically for catching bait with a sabiki rig, and it is still the best. The rod in this combo is 7’3” and features two-piece construction with an extra-hard phenolic tip for superior strength and extreme sensitivity. Comfortable EVA grips and a gimbal butt with cover means anglers will be yanking bait from the water with ease. Anyone who has ever tried to store a sabiki rigs knows the frustration of attempting to keep them from becoming a tangled mess. With the Bait Stik, that is not a problem. While not in use, the sabiki rig can be safely and conveniently stored inside the rod, which is a huge plus. The combo comes with either a casting or spinning reel. The spinning reel comes with an anodized aluminum spool, a graphite body and rotor and an oversized eggshaped knob. The casting reel has an aluminum body and side covers, brass gearing and a star drag. Catching bait has never been so easy. When the bait tank is full, rinse everything down with fresh water, store the sabiki rig in the rod and forget about it. Look for the Danco Bait Stik in your tackle store.
WWW.SHAKESPEARE-FISHING.COM
OCEAN 2 RIVER TOURNAMENT COMBO
ZEBCO BIG CAT SERIES Zebco is launching an impressive offering of beefedup rods and reels called “Big Cat” to accommodate serious value-minded anglers who passionately pursue catfish. The spincast reels are built with a titanium nitride plated stainless steel spinnerhead to add durability and reduce friction. Big Cat XT conventional-style reels will likely be the top pick for the most avid trophy hunters from the Mississippi River to Santee Cooper and all waters in between. Two conventional reels will be offered. The Big Cat XT 30 conventional trolling reel will hold 455 yards of 30-pound test. The Big Cat XT 350 round baitcasting reel holds 200 yards of 20-pound test. Worth noting is that a headlamp handy for nighttime catfishing will be free to consumers who purchase rods and reels within the very affordable Big Cat and Big Cat XT series.
WWW.ZEBCO.COM
Ocean 2 River (O2R) Tournament spinning combos are designed to perform to the exacting standards of serious tournament anglers while standing up to the grueling conditions and treatment offered up by hard-core fishermen in the marine environment. The IM-7 fast action graphite rods come with Seaguide Atlas Performance aluminum oxide guides, comfortable cork split grips and a graphite reel seat with a cork inlay and cushioned stainless steel hoods. These rods combine strength with sensitivity and excellent casting power. They are available in medium and medium heavy weights to suit a range of line and lure weights. The reels feature a solid aluminum frame, graphite side covers and rotor and a double anodized aluminum spool to stand up to the saltwater environment. A 5.1:1 gear ratio is suitable for fishing a wide range of lures all day long without wearing out the angler’s wrists and hands. Stainless ball bearings and a comfortable oversized T-knob provide for longer casts, smoother drag runs and comfort while fighting fish. Look for the O2R combo and other fine Danco products in your tackle store.
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ON THE COVER
RHODAN INTRODUCES 72” SHAFT GPS GUIDED TROLLING MOTOR
Editor’s Note:
Each month, Coastal Angler Magazine and The Angler Magazine staff search our vast coverage area for photos that will grace our covers. With well over a million readers in diverse coastal and inland markets, our magazines strive for broad national appeal as well as local-level intelligence to put anglers on fish. The cover is different depending on which edition you, the reader, are holding. The following is a little information about this month’s covers.
COASTAL ANGLER MAGAZINE The Florida Keys, Marathon
FREE
BIG BEND EDITION
The February edition of Coastal Angler Magazine features a cover image of Capt. James Platt with a 35-pound cobia he landed onboard a SeaVee boat about 10 miles out from Marathon’s Tarpon Creek Marina on the ocean side of the Florida Keys. The photo was provided by Capt. Chris Morrison of Keys Light Tackle Fishing Charters, who Local was fishing with Platt when they caught a limit of cobia, along with king mackerel, mangrove snapper and grouper. Morrison uses medium-heavy, Gary Loomis-designed Inshore Series rods from Temple Fork Outfitters along with 30-pound test Cortland Master Braid line to handle cobia and many species he targets in winter months. Home to the world-famous Seven Mile Bridge, Marathon is a group of tropical islands perfectly situated in the middle of the Florida Keys island chain. This ideal boating and family destination offers easy access to the Atlantic Ocean, Florida Bay, Everglades and Gulf of Mexico waters for an amazing diversity. Wintertime in the Florida Keys means anglers see large numbers of migratory fish such as cobia, king and Spanish mackerel, wahoo, sailfish and blackfin tuna pushed down from colder northern waters. Marathon is an excellent destination to base your Keys vacation for an unforgettable adventure. See writer John Steinhorst’s article on winter and early spring fishing out of Marathon in this month’s issue. Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events
VOLUME 22 • ISSUE 265
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THE ANGLER MAGAZINE Ice Fishing On Golden Pond, New Hampshire
WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA EDITION
FREE
This month’s cover image for The Angler Magazine was taken by Chuck Fritz on the ice at Squam Lake in Holderness, New Hampshire. Old Timers might remember the 1981 movie “On Golden Pond.” It was filmed on Squam Lake, and the most interesting storyline in the film had to be the cantankerous Local character Norman’s obsession with catching a humongous rainbow trout named Walter. Squam Lake looks a lot different with a layer of ice over it than it does in the movie, which was shot in the summer. The fishing is still good, though. Just ask Tim Moore, the ice fishing guide who was photographed for the cover with a pretty yellow perch he caught through a hole in the ice. The ice fishing season on Squam and nearby Lake Winnipesaukee generally runs from January through March each year, and anglers target giant white perch and lake trout as well as smallmouth bass, crappie, sunfish and yellow perch. If there’s anyone out there who knows where Walter is hiding after all these years, it has to be Tim. See Tim’s story inside this months issue and check out his website at www.timmooreoutdoors.com. Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events
VOLUME 22 • ISSUE 264
F R A N C H I S E
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MERCURY MARINE’S VESSELVIEW MOBILE AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD
M
ercury Marine’s VesselView Mobile app is now available for free download on the App Store and Google Play in North America. Available for iOS and Android mobile devices, including smartphones and tablets, the VesselView Mobile app instantly provides users access to their boat’s SmartCraft digital data in the palm of their hand. The product recently won a prestigious IBEX innovation award. The VesselView Mobile module, which is needed to fully utilize the app, is available for purchase at participating Mercury Marine dealers, from the VesselView Mobile app or on www.vesselviewmobile.com. The product is compatible with all Mercury SmartCraftcapable engines built since 2003. One module supports single through quad engine applications. SmartCraft is a fully integrated suite of digital technologies, including marine gauges, sensors, vessel systems and computercontrolled features, giving users a higher level of control over their boat’s propulsion and electrical systems. Now, with Mercury Marine’s VesselView Mobile, users can see SmartCraft engine data right on the screen of their mobile device. The app also includes useful new features such as Fuel Information, Maintenance Reminders, Mapping, Performance Summary, and Fault Code Diagnostics. VesselView Mobile makes preparing for and spending a day on the water easier, safer 14
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and more enjoyable by letting users perform the following functions from their mobile device: • Connect to the SmartCraft data network in your boat from your iOS or Android mobile device via BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy 4.0) • See SmartCraft engine parameters like engine hours, fuel burn, water temperature, battery voltage, RPM, etc. (parameters available are specific to each engine family). • Get fault code diagnostic information so you know and understand if that fault is something to be addressed when you return to the dock, or is more urgent. • Fuel Management provides accurate fuel usage data along with fuel remaining plus indicates time and distance to empty when the user enters fuel added via the app. • Locate your nearest Mercury Marine dealer • Get points of interest information for your body of water, including fuel and restaurant locations, and more • Record a moment on the water for future reference • Access checklists associated with your boating lifestyle • Get maintenance reminders and access historical maintenance information logs. Mercury Marine’s VesselView Mobile app also provides users with a Web-based account that gives them and their preferred dealer app and module will be on display at the 2017 an even deeper connection to their boat. The Miami International Boat Show.
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Core Concepts Make
Ice Fishing Easier By Tim Moore
S
pending hours on a frozen lake isn’t easy. Your body works overtime just to stay warm. Then, add the activity level that often accompanies ice fishing, such as drilling or chiseling holes and chasing tip up flags, and it can be downright exhausting. The degree of difficulty extreme cold temperatures add to fishing is what keeps most people from trying ice fishing. While there is a ton of gear designed to make ice fishing easier, core concepts, such as efficiency and mobility go a long way to make ice fishing easy enough for even the most warm blooded people. When you strengthen your core muscles with exercise, you train the rest of your 16
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muscles to work in harmony, which leads to better balance and stability. The same can be said for ice fishing. Exercising core concepts on a regular basis not only improves technique and lure control, but ice fishing actually becomes easier. The hottest new lures and trending techniques might catch a few fish, but they do little to improve your ability as an angler, especially when everything is frozen. Efficiency is arguably the foundation of any core. A highly efficient ice angler accomplishes more tasks in a shorter amount of time, and therefore catches more fish. Being efficient means eliminating unnecessary steps. Fewer steps means more time fishing, and more time fishing means more fish caught. Every second you spend with your line out of the water is time spent not catching fish. Efficiency begins off the ice. There are many things you can do before you leave your house that will make you more efficient. Start by leaving equipment and lures you won’t need at home. If you’re going fishing for panfish and you have larger rods mixed in with panfish rods, you will have extra gear to deal with on the ice. It doesn’t seem like a big deal until you’re fishing in subzero temperatures and the rods you need get tangled with the rods you don’t need. Rigging multiple rods with different lures before you leave your house will also reduce steps on the ice. Then you can cycle through pre-rigged rods rather than tie new jigs in the cold, wind or snow. Have you ever seen the deck of a tournament bass angler’s boat? They have many rods rigged with different lures so they don’t have to re-tie while they are fishing. The same goes for ice fishing, especially when it’s freezing out. The work you do at home pays off on the ice, but there is more you can do while fishing to make things easier, such as putting gear back in its place when you’re not using it. Then when you want to move you have less equipment to put away. Sometimes we are so
excited to get fishing that we tend to lay gear on the ice when we are done using it rather than put it back where it belongs. By the time we decide to move there is gear all over the place, which makes moving harder. The Godfather of modern ice fishing Dave Genz always says, “If it’s easy you’ll do it.” Focus on ways to make everything easier and you will be more productive. The little things add up. Just as backpackers try to shave ounces off their packs to make hiking easier, successful ice anglers are always trying to shave off unnecessary tasks to make fishing easier. The equipment you use also contributes to your efficiency. A Vexilar sonar flasher removes a lot of the guesswork. Figuring out if there are fish under you and their depth could take hours without a flasher. A sonar flasher is easy to use. It will instantly show you the entire water column including the bottom, your jig, and anything else that shows up under you, such as a fish. All in real time! Clam Outdoors makes a number of items specifically designed to make certain tasks easier on the ice. Prices range from a few dollars into the $1,000 range. The simple lowcost products often make a big difference. The Clam Can allows you to carry bait in your pocket. Not a big thing, but it makes a huge difference when it’s cold. Rod Slicks keep ice rods from getting tangled, and Fish Trap shelters get you out of the cold quickly and allow you to move around easier. The parts all have a sum that equals success. Mobility is another important core element of ice fishing. Mobility allows you to cover more water, which allows you to put your lure in front of more fish. Think of ice fishing the same way you do when open water fishing. We rarely head out onto the water and cast in the same spot over and over again. Ice fishing is no different. Every hole you drill is a cast. Make more casts and you’ll catch more fish. If you make a lot of casts in an area and don’t catch anything, move to another area and repeat. Give yourself a time limit, and don’t stay in the same area if you’re not catching fish. Ice Fishing doesn’t have to be cold and difficult. Core concepts that make ice fishing easier also make it more fun. Establish a routine and it will become second nature. By constantly thinking of ways to strengthen your core, you make ice fishing easier. Before you know it, you will be catching more fish than ever before. And who doesn’t love catching more fish? Tim Moore is a full-time licensed fishing guide in New Hampshire. He owns Tim Moore Outdoors and the New England Ice Fishing Academy. For more information visit www. TimMooreOutdoors.com. For more Tim Moore, go to
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12/15/16 1:24 PM
FLORIDA
ENJOY THE MIAMI BOAT SHOW’S ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE
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or those seeking ultimate enjoyment at one of the world’s largest and greatest boat shows, the VIP Experience is the hot ticket for the 2017 Progressive Insurance Miami International Boat Show Feb. 16-20. In its second year at the iconic Miami Marine Stadium Park & Basin, the show will offer more boats, large yachts, marine product debuts, transportation options, dining and fun than ever before. There will be excitement for everyone, but those who prefer more of an upscale experience should treat themselves to the VIP Experience. With ticket packages ranging from $70 to $100 per day, guests will enjoy exclusive access to
the VIP Lounge aboard a 111-foot luxury yacht docked at Pier 9 among more than 100 of the biggest and most extravagant motor, cruising and super yachts ever displayed at the show. The VIP Experience includes upscale dining and beverage service, live music daily, an air conditioned indoor lounge, an open sky deck with stunning views, private restrooms, complimentary Wi-Fi and an array of complimentary services and luxury product displays. All of this comes on top of what the Progressive Insurance Miami International Boat Show is recognized for: a worldclass boat-show experience for more than 100,000 attendees and exhibitors. This year’s show will be the best ever. Organizers anticipate more than 1,300 new boats on display with more new model debuts than ever before. What’s more, the number of boats in-water is expanding to an estimated 550 boats and yachts— all located in the show’s state-of-the-art marina. From sport fishing boats and high performance boats, to personal watercraft and wake sport boats, family cruisers and luxury yachts, there is something for every lifestyle. The show will also once again offer sea trials, where shoppers can take boats out for a spin. This year, more boat exhibitors will participate, giving boat buyers a chance to test-drive a number of options. And be sure to come hungry and thirsty. A highlight of the 2017 show is an enhanced food and beverage program featuring more than 150 options ranging from luxe to casual fare. Whether you choose to come by water taxi, shuttle bus or car, the show offers seamless transportation to and from the show as well as ample and convenient parking options. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day of the show. Regular admission packages range from $25 to $100 for multiple days, and children younger than 15 are free. For more information, go to www.MiamiBoatShow.com. To learn more about last years boat show, go to
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AN AUTUMN SAIL STORY By Michael Landress
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e blasted through the Boynton Inlet on the first full day of fall and set lines in 33 fathoms near one of the many reefs just a short pelican’s glide offshore. It was ramp-to-reef in minutes for the five of us, Capt. Chris Lemieux, Carson, Jeff, Mike and his father-in-law, Joe. It’s one of the many perks we enjoy fishing out of Boynton Beach, also known as the Gateway to the Gulf Stream. Our goal this day was modest, to catch and release Florida’s premier game fish for our senior angler, Joe. During his 84 years, Joe had never battled a sailfish. Unfortunately, any hope of doing so on the reef was quickly trammeled by a school of ravenous rainbow runners that pillaged our lively baits at an astonishing rate. A relative of the greater amberjack, rainbows are feisty on hook and line, but offered no food value for the men of this vainglorious crew. We decided to run farther offshore into deeper water to hunt the harlequin green and yellow denizens of the deep—dolphin! After a short run on a flat
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sea, we arrived at a large patch of pelagic weed drifting in 800 feet of 86-degree water. Baitfish soon rained down upon the blue water after being violently wacked from a cozy dip net by the well-placed palm of our determined captain. After a few minutes, it became evident this seemingly perfect, floating asylum harbored zilch predators. Then, a dark silhouette suddenly appeared against the morning glare 50 feet from the bow of the Conch Cruiser. Shark or marlin I thought. “Sail, sail, sail!” we screamed like school boys. It was Florida’s fish, the sleek marauder that we sought earlier on the reef. As she laggardly cruised on the surface with sail raised, Chris pitched a live threadfin herring a few feet in front of her… a perfect cast. Enticed by the presentation, she gobbled the bait and the fight was on. Lit-up and furiously angry, she raced across the ocean at warp speed. Chris barked for Joe to take the rod, and the grizzled angler complied. After 20 arduous minutes, first mate Carson captured leader and the billfish was free. Underwater GOPRO footage indicated a successful release as her large symmetrical tail propelled her into the depths. There is no photographic evidence of Joe’s multiple naps later that day, but more importantly a fine and weary man was able to complete one of the items on his (chum) bucket list: dueling an autumn sail! For a great sailfish catch fight, go to
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and deep drop fishing for yelloweye snapper, blackfin snapper, queen snapper and mystic grouper. Even when the east winds are howling in the spring and summer months, comfortable fishing conditions exist on the leeward side of the island. When the wind lays down, The Bridge is a short 16-mile run from the marina. The Bridge runs from the southern tip of Eleuthera to the northern tip of Little San Salvador. It’s a 9-mile underwater ledge that averages depths of 200 feet between the two islands with drop offs to 800 feet on the Exuma Sound side and 3,000 feet on the Atlantic Ocean side. Big wahoo, dolphin and yellowfin tuna can be expected here, and you never know when a blue marlin will show up in your spread. The resort offers world class accommodations in the form of 14 two-story, luxury villas with views of both the sunrise and sunset. There is also a well-stocked ship’s store, a new waterfront restaurant, bar and swimming pool. The marina is a state-of-the-art, Blue Flag awarded facility with average depths of 12 to 14 feet that is flushed on every tide making the waters crystal clear. All slips have 30 and 50 amp power and water with dockage for vessels up to 200 feet. There’s a full fuel dock with both gasoline and diesel. Pump out services are also available. Getting here is relatively easy, as there are several carriers with daily flights to and from Nassau. From Nassau, it’s a very short flight to Rock Sound, which is just 30 miles from the cape. Both Bahamas Air and Pineapple Air offer service to and from Rock Sound several days a week. Watermakers Air offers direct service from Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport to and from Rock Sound four times per week. From Rock sound, a cab ride will cost you about $70. There are also car rentals available. The Stuart Sailfish Club, in its 75th year, has announced a Flotilla to Cape Eleuthera for May 5 to May 14. Fifteen member boats have already signed up. If you would like to participate in the Flotilla to the cape, you must be a member of the club. Family memberships are available for just $200. For more information, visit the club’s website at www.stuartsailfishclub.com. For more information on the Cape Eleuthera Resort and Marina, go to www. capeeleuthera.com.
ESCAPE TO THE CAPE
T
hose living in South Florida are fortunate to have Bimini and West End, Grand Bahama a short boat ride from the shoreline. But there’s an undiscovered jewel of the Out Islands within reach for those looking for something more. Just 56 miles southeast of Nassau, lies the Cape Eleuthera Resort and Marina. From bonefish on the flats to blue marlin on The Bridge, this special place is no less than paradise. Just outside the marina in the Exuma Sound, you will find some of the best yellowtail snapper fishing on the planet, consistent gaffer dolphin action
For more fishing at Cape Eleuthera Resort and Marina, go to
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SWIMMING WITH SHARKS
can systematically decimate their food sources by feeding so much in one area that they permanently impact the ability of that food source to regenerate. Sharks act as a regulatory body in these instances through their mere presence. Just by having a shark around, fish and other animals are forced to expand their hunting or grazing grounds and seek out food over larger areas, where their impact will be less dramatic. Sharks play such an integral role to the health of marine ecosystems that studies have found a decline in their populations results in a correlating decline of many commercially significant fish species, including those, like tuna, that are a favorite on our dinner plates. Without sharks in our local waters, we would not be able to enjoy the wide variety of fish species and marine animals that we take for granted. As anglers, there are easy ways to “fish friendly” Photo by Melissa Johnson • A scuba diver watches as two when it comes to sharks. If you’re fishing from shore, try Lemon Sharks swim by on a local reef. to keep the shark in water as you release it so they can maintain a constant flow of water through their gills. If very February at Pura Vida Divers, we dedicate a month to it’s hard to remove a hook from the shark, it’s better to cut the line than shedding light onto one of our favorite, but often overlooked, marine animals: sharks. As scuba divers and nature enthusiasts, we spend more time exerting yourself and stressing the animal. Using non-stainless circle hooks helps lower the longevity of the hook rely on this keystone species to help hold in place the precious balance of underwater, which is beneficial to hammerheads and other species that life that allows our coral reef systems to thrive. Sharks are an easy scapegoat, portrayed by films and most media as are particularly susceptible to exhaustion during catch and release. Helping preserve shark populations is one step towards ensuring aggressive predators. In reality, sharks play an important role policing and that the activities and ecosystems we enjoy today remain healthy for even strengthening the populations of their prey. Sharks are opportunistic predators that feed on old, weakened or generations to come. If you’re interested in learning more about sharks or conservation sick fish. This in turn ensures that only the healthiest members of a fish population reproduce, overall strengthening a species gene pool. efforts, we invite you to join us on Friday, Feb. 24 for a fascinating Similarly, by targeting prey made weaker by disease, sharks help prevent presentation by Angela Smith of Shark Team One. The event will be hosted at Pura Vida Divers, and details can be found on our website at the rapid spreading of that disease through a school. If fish or other marine species thrive without a predatory threat, they www.puravidadivers.com.
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1/18/17 10:18 AM
Center sp By Richard L. Matteson Jr. Stuart Rod & Reel Club Staff
Don’t Chase Rust, Protect Your Gear! Save your Fishing Rods, Reels, Tackle Boxes & Especially your Boat!
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ading puts you in the water with the fish. You are now part of their element, and this gives you an advantage over a noisy boat with a motor or trolling motor and anglers bumping around on it. As a wader you can silently fish under piers and under mangrove branches where boats can’t go or even approach without spooking the fish. Winds and Tide When you wade the lagoon, you need to know the tide and the wind. You don’t want to fish during a slack tide, and you might not want to fish if it’s too windy. You might want to fish out of the wind or with the wind at your back. The tide determines if you fish shallow or deep as well as where the fish are.
Finding Fish As you enter the water, start looking for signs of bait and fish activity. Look for birds on the water or over the water. Use search lures like C.A.L. jigs that can be cast and retrieved quickly and cover a lot of water area. Use heavier jigs in windy conditions. Move quickly without making noise. Vary the speed of retrieve. Fast retrieves in the top of the water column catch ladyfish, jacks and snook, but you might miss trout, redfish and flounder. When you find fish, slow down and fish the area carefully.
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Areas To Wade The South Indian River Lagoon The South Indian River area I fish stretches from Vero Beach to Stuart. The Bridges: Fort Pierce has two bridges. The north bridge has a boat ramp on the east side from which you can wade, and there’s an area across the bridge from Little Jim’s on either side of the second boat ramp. The south Fort Pierce bridge has an area on the east side that stretches to the inlet. South of the bridge on the west side is a fishing area. In Stuart, the north bridge (Jensen Causeway) can be waded on either side and the same is true of the south Stuart bridge (Earnest Lyons). There are two bridges on the St. Lucie River, but they are hard to access for waders. The Shoreline: My favorite wading areas are Walton Road (Port St. Lucie), Walton Scrub, Midway (Ft. Pierce), and Wilcox Road (Vero Beach). On the east side there’s Herman’s Bay (PSL) and Bear Point (Ft. Pierce). Be Respectful Remember the pier owners have the access rights to their piers and don’t want waders parking along the pier areas without permission because it blocks their view of the lagoon. Happy wading! For more wading in the Indian River Lagoon, go to
CAMINSHORE.COM
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SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
GULF SEASONS CHANGES FOR AMBERJACK, GRAY TRIGGER, GAG
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ith the coming of 2017, several recreational fishing season changes in Gulf waters went into effect. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) manages marine fish from the shore to 9 nautical miles in the Gulf of Mexico. • Greater Amberjack Season Open The greater amberjack season in Gulf state waters had been closed since Sept. 10. This temporary closure was put in place because NOAA Fisheries estimated the 2016 annual federal recreational quota was exceeded and the recreational harvest season in adjacent federal waters closed. The quota is the poundage of fish that can be caught each year while maintaining a sustainable fishery. Federal rules require that any harvest in excess of the quota for this species must be deducted from the next year’s quota and could result in a shortened federal season. State waters closed early in 2016 to help minimize negative impacts of a quota overage on Florida anglers and the 2017 season.
FWC Photo
• Gray Triggerfish Season Closed The gray triggerfish recreational season will remain closed Jan. 1 through Dec. 31, 2017 in Gulf state waters in response to an announcement that the 2016 federal gray triggerfish quota was exceeded by more than 200 percent and that federal waters will be closed through Dec. 31, 2017. The state waters closure will help avoid a quota overage in 2017. The FWC will consider a limited gray triggerfish season for fall 2017 at an upcoming meeting. • Gag Grouper Season Closed Gag grouper closed for recreational harvest in most Gulf of Mexico state waters and all Gulf federal waters Jan. 1, 2017. This is an annual closure. The season will reopen June 1, 2017. State waters off Franklin, Wakulla, Jefferson and Taylor counties are open from April 1 through June 30 only and are not open during the June 1 through Dec. 31 season. Monroe County is also excluded from the June through December season because it follows Atlantic rules for gag grouper.
For more fishing on the Gulf of Mexico, go to
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Chasing Big Bulls In BC By Cam Sigler Jr.
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ack in 2014, I went north of the Canadian border to fish for bull trout and westslope cutthroat trout with Gordon Silverthorne, who owns the Kootenay Fly Shop in Fernie, British Columbia. This area west of Calgary is littered with good waters. I have taken large groups up to fish the Elk and surrounding rivers with him. It was on these trips that I found myself focused on catching bull trout. Big bulls on a fly became my quest. I had caught many, up to nine in a day, but had yet to break the 27-inch mark. Bull trout are in the char family with brook trout and Dolly Varden. They range from northern parts of California and Nevada in the south to the Northern Territories of Canada and East to Montana and Alberta. They can grow in excess of 40 inches long and to weights heavier than 30 pounds. They migrate up and down systems based on food sources and into feeder creeks to spawn. They typically inhabit waters that stay under 59 degrees and are one of the most sensitive of the chars, requiring pristine waters to thrive. They are recognized as endangered in most states and protected in most systems in the provinces. A bull trout of 12 pounds might be 10 years old. I was back in Fernie in 2015 chasing trout with a few friends. As usual, we had good fishing for beautiful cutthroats, but I was chasing bulls. We spent a few days on the Elk River and caught a few bulls longer than 20 inches, but not in great numbers. My attention turned to a small pristine river south of Fernie called the Wigwam. In the past I had sent anglers from my groups there, but because of limited daily access, I had not fished it myself. Access is difficult. From the parking area, it’s 800 feet down to the river. It’s a hang-onto-trees steep. It reminded me of some streams I guided in Alaska, cold and clear enough to see pebbles 20 feet deep. The first hole was full of bull trout. After many casts, I landed one longer than 30 inches. As a group, we
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caught many cutts that averaged about 16 inches and juvenile bulls of the 19-inch variety. In conversation, Gordon spoke of the nearby Kootenay River bull trout fishery and about setting up an operation there. The Kootenay is a glacial-fed river formed by runoff and feeder streams primarily out of Kootenay National Park above Cranbrook, Canada. I told him to count me in for an expedition that fall. It didn’t happen because of a landslide in the river’s headwaters that blew the river out for an entire season. It’s tough to fish a fly without visibility. Because of water levels and clarity, the window for fly fishing the Kootenay is about six weeks in fall, if you are lucky. I finally got my chance to fish it in late October of 2016. Author Tom Boyd, who is writing a book on all the char species, and I made the 6-hour drive north from my second home in Washington to a tent camp Gordon and big-game outfitter Eric Grinnell had erected on the river. The camp was great, complete with a stove in every tent and a generator for lights. It was located a good distance between put-in points, and we saw only four other boats over three days. The four of us had a terrific time. We saw a few deer on the river and kept an eye out for grizzly and black bears but saw no evidence of them. I did wake one night to the sound of wolves howling in the distance. Water levels dropped over the three days we fished, and the water cleared even more. The weather was clear and cold. The fishing is primarily from 16-foot boats with outboard jet pumps. The river is braided and skinny in places, so the driver must pay attention. It is glacial fed and there are quarter-mile log jams on the banks. When this river is running 15 feet above the level we fished at, it must be roaring. This is a 7- to 9-weight show with sink tips. I have caught many bulls dead drifting a rabbit strip or synthetic-based fly that swims with this method. This trip, stripping seemed to work the best. We
were on the tail end of the kokanee salmon spawn. Once spawned out, these landlocked sockeye salmon float downriver, and the bull trout key on the spent fish. So we threw lots of 10-inch flies. Bull trout are very aggressive and opportunistic. They have to be in these systems. Bulls can move daily, but once we found them in a section they readily took most flies we threw. Bull trout, like many trout, like structure. Snags, logs, and big rocks in the river often hold them. I caught the biggest fish of our trip on the last cast of the last day in a tail out. It topped 29 inches and took a crawfish pattern I tie for smallmouth. We caught a few juvenile bulls in the 19-inch range and a few cutthroat, but our average bull trout was about 23 inches. I saw a few fish that were clearly bigger than our biggest catch. My guess is there are bulls in the Kootenay pushing the 40-inch mark. The largest we heard of on a fly weighed about 30 pounds. The bull trout fishery in the U.S. and Canada is fragile. I suggest chasing them sooner than later. If you decide to fish the Kootenay next fall, look for the guy holding up the 35-inch fish. Hopefully that’s me, as I will keep going back. For information or to set up a trip, contact Gordon Silverthorne at info@kootenayflyshop.com.
For more Bull Trout Fishing in BC, go to
FISHORDIE.CO
1/18/17 2:08 PM
A WINTER WADE
By Capt. Michael Okruhlik • Photo Courtesy of My Coast Outdoors
A FLY FISHING
s we idled away from the dock on a mild mid-winter morning, we all anticipated that telltale thump of a solid wintertime trout. Although the fall and winter weather had been mild, the big trout had already started finding their way to the normal winter feeding areas where we hoped to intercept them. Armed with slow-sinking soft plastics, we were confident we would be giving our cameras a workout on this trip. As we quietly drifted into our first and what would be our only stop of the day, we noticed a lone angler had beat us to our target area. Showing him the
CHOOSING A SALTWATER FLY ROD
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hoosing the right fly rod is a personal choice. There are so many rods and various rod actions (fast, moderate, tip flex, full flex, slow etc.) that selecting a rod can be very confusing. It’s confusing to me, and I live a breathe this stuff! Rod Length: 9 feet or Shorter? In most saltwater fly fishing situations the 9-foot rod is standard. It provides enough length to keep a back cast off the water, to pick up fly line off the water to redirect a cast and is the best option for making longer casts. However, in recent years many companies have developed wonderful fly rods that are much shorter and can cast with the best 9-footers on the market. The new short rods are 7 to 8 feet in length and have a moderate (slow) action. The combination of a shorter rod and slower action make these rods a deadly tool when casting larger flies and poppers at close range. Fly fishing for redfish, baby tarpon or other fish that hold tight to cover does not require long casts. And when making short cast, the short rod is a more accurate tool. The Grip And Feel Find a fly rod that feels good while you’re holding it. The feel can be the difference between casting the rod well and not. I have picked up some very high-end rods with grips that felt like tree trunks. I believe a grip with a narrower diameter is best because it allows you to feel the rod load much better. Rod Guides The guides on a fly rod are an important part of the overall
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courtesy he deserved, we anchored up short of the sweet spot and made our first wade out deeper. We pecked away at some mediumsized specks and kept an eye on the lone angler who we felt had the upper hand based on location. We watched him land one trout before he boarded his skiff and slowly idled out of the area. Although we had more action in deeper water than he had up shallow, we still decided to ease into our original planned area as the rising sun increased the water temp on the shallow flat. As the sun rose higher in the sky, the baitfish became more active and helped fine tune our target areas to cast. The water here was shin deep and clear with the bottom structure composed of soft mud with abundant grass and potholes. Using a white, slow-sinking paddle shad, I was slowly swimming it across the flat, pausing to let it slowly descend, and then I’d continue the retrieve and repeat. On one pause, I felt that telltale solid thump and then listened to the drag scream after the hookset. They were here! This was our first solid fish of the day, a thick-shoulder 6-pound trout. After a quick photo and release, we continued to ease down the shoreline sight casting to potholes or mullet. The next strike was hit and run, with the fish staying low and burning drag. After spinning me around a few times, I landed a solid upper-slot red. After several hours on this wade, I finally saw what I had been looking for, fleeing mullet at the edge of a pothole. A few cranks of the reel handle and I was hooked up. Not what I anticipated, but it was a medium-sized trout. I made a second cast to the same pothole, reeled my lure to the far edge and as soon as it paused it was inhaled! This trout sent foaming water sailing through the air while shaking her massive head. She tail walked four times before I had her close enough to verify her true size. The icing on the cake, an 8-pound trout in clear shin-deep water on a south Texas grass flat. Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Controlled Descent Lures and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com. For more wading in the Texas winter waters, go to
PEACEFULWATERS.CO performance. Many rods today are equipped with flexible snake guides, better known as REC Recoil guides, that are lighter than standard snake guides. These REC guides allow the rod to flex between the stripping guides’ footings for a more efficient transfer of energy during the cast. These REC guides add to the rod’s casting performance, creating greater line speed. Another added bonus to these REC guides is they will bend and not break if bumped on a boat rail. Rod Action Rod actions vary greatly. It’s kind of comparing apples and oranges. Some anglers prefer a fast action; some prefer a moderate action. There are benefits to both, but for the beginning or intermediate fly angler, a moderate action rod is the best choice. A moderate action rod will cover a wide spectrum of casting situations and is easier to cast and cast efficiently into a stiff wind. These rods also load a fly line using more of the fly rods taper, making it easier for the angler to feel the rod load. You can always purchase a fast action rod down the road as your skills progress. Rod Balance So, now that you have picked out that perfect saltwater stick, ask yourself… How does it feel in my hand? Is the rod tip heavy? Is the rod butt heavy? Does the rod feel too heavy overall? Too light? These are all question that need to be answered. The best rod is the one that feels well balanced from tip to butt. Balance the rod on your index finger at the top of the full wells grip. A well-balanced rod will balance evenly on your index finger. This is a fly rod’s sweet spot. It will be the optimum place for the thumb of your casting hand every time you cast.
For More Fly Fishing with Bowman, go to
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1/18/17 2:08 PM
North Tampa Bay By: Capt. Joe Vinson
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he North Tampa winter time action is as good as it gets, so what are you waiting for? Speckled trout is my favorite species to target during the winter time in North Tampa Bay. There is an abundance of them this time of year, and fishing around tides and the cold fronts is the key to bringing home limits. These fish can be found all over the grass flats on high tides and inside the creeks and channels around the low tides. A live shrimp under a popping cork over grass in the three to eight foot depths is hard to beat. When
fishing deeper potholes try using a drop shot rig with a live shrimp or your favorite artificial on an eighth to quarter ounce jighead. Snook are feeling quite comfortable back in their winter stomping grounds. They have been very active ambushing baits, fattening up and pulling drags. Anglers should target sunny mangrove banks next to deeper drop offs. On extra warm days, snook will venture away from their shelter in search of an easy meal. These snook will continue feeding between cold fronts and will stay active unless water temps really drop. When snook are actively feeding, they will likely take topwater plugs, free lined pinfish, whitebait or creek chubs. If the days are colder and water temps start dropping fast, you may have to switch to an easier meal such as a free lined jumbo shrimp, a piece of cut mullet, pinfish, or cut lady
fish. The backwaters are my favorite places to target redfish this time of year, and North Tampa Bay has some of the best. Reds will be stacked in the backwater creeks and feeding as the sun gets high in the sky and warms the shallows. The cooler, gin clear water has these reds sitting tight and feeding selectively. A stealthy approach is always best when targeting these fish. Anglers who prefer artificials should stick to natural looking baits with matching bait scents. One of the best ways to convince these reds to bite is soaking cut bait, blue crab or a large creek chub on the bottom near oyster beds, backwater creek banks and points. There are still good numbers of reds rooting the outside grass flats on the flooded tides. Spotting fish or working weedless spoons around schools of mullet will be most productive. Sheepshead are on the hot list
this month with large fish feeding near deep oyster beds, rock jetties, sea-walls, docks and bridges. Sheephead can be picky eaters, so make your presentation as natural as can be. Chum the water with smashed up barnacles and drop down a fiddler crab free lined on a Gamikatsu Octopus style circle hook sized either one or two. Sheephead will hit hard and fast, so be ready to pull them away from the structure quickly. Remember, if you are doing any fishing in North Tampa Bay; make sure you stop by the all New Tama Bay Bait and Tackle. The gang at TBBT will get you set up with the right bait and tackle for a productive day on the water. Capt. Joe Vinson Vinson Marine Fishing Charters vinsonmarine@gmail.com 813.465.0961
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South Shore Tampa Bay Feed em’ in February By: Capt. Joel Brandenburg
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ebruary is hot or cold – many gamefish are transitioning from their winter haunts to their spring locations, but sometimes the weather stops them in between. In February you find fish settled in unexpected areas, the weather may have stopped them in that location and so they may be reluctant to feed. You can find large mangrove snapper around towers and buoys in the bay. We chum them in on a slack or semi slack tide by using scissors to cut up threadfins into fingernail sized pieces. Dispense each piece of chum in the same place so you have one single chum line. Once the mangrove snapper are schooled up behind your boat, start fishing. Use three feet of six pound test leader with a small short shank “J” hook; take one of the finger nail sized cut baits and insert your hook in it so your hook is invisible to the snapper. Send your hooked bait into the chum line and let out your line with zero resistance so it goes with the flow. You should get your limit in no time using this technique. A lot of visitors come down from the north this time of year and come fishing with Ana Banana Fishing Company. I always ask if they have any type of fish in particular that they would prefer to target. Some have a specific species they want to target, but most want to either target hard fighting sportfish or the say they want to take fish home to eat. When they want a fish fry, I usually mention sheepshead. The way we target sheepshead in the bay this time of year is to find reefs and underwater
structures in the 10 to 25foot depths. We fish them with light 10 pound test mono leader with a quarter ounce red or gold jighead. Chum all around the boat, and use half a shrimp or enough to cover the hook, and send it straight down until your bait is six inches over the reef bottom. You won’t feel a big hit, just a nibble, lift your rod slowly and when you feel weight start reeling quickly. You should catch other fish too such as sea bass, flounder, grouper, snapper and grunts. We like to target trout on outgoing tides near oyster bars, canal ledges and potholes on grass flats. Chum with shrimp pieces or crippled bait fish. Use a popping cork with enough leader under it to keep your bait bouncing off the bottom and pair it with a small “J” hook or jighead. Hook your shrimp or baitfish and let your bobber go with the flow. Don’t set the hook, just reel fast when your cork goes down and use finesse when reeling up the trout, I see many trout rookies trying to fight the trout like it’s a 500 pound marlin. Be gentle with trout as they have soft mouths that can tear easily. For a charter with Captain Joel Brandenburg of Ana Banana Fishing Company or to purchase a holiday fishing gift certificate for the angler in your life visit www. anabananafishing.com or call 813-267-4401. To find him in person, come down to Hooks Grill at Little Harbor Resort, home of the world famous hook n’ cook! Sign your kid up today for our summer fishing camp, visit www. anabananakidsfishingcamp.com
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Barracuda Bob’s
Clearwater & Dunedin
By: Capt. Joe Londot
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his has to be the mildest winter I can remember in the Tampa Bay area. If February fishing is anything like it’s been through December and January, you’d better keep your reels oiled and your hooks sharpened because the action will be hot! This has been a banner winter in the backwaters of Saint Joseph Sound and Clearwater Bay with anglers reporting record catches of trout, both speckled and silver; redfish, black drum, flounder and sheepshead from the Dunedin Causeway and Honeymoon Island. The trout are most active on the grass flats to the north and south of the causeway and are readily taking big live shrimp, jigs and bucktails, as well as hard baits like MirrOlure’s MirrOdine. Don’t be surprised to catch your limit of speckled trout on any given day with plenty of fish exceeding the 20-inch size limit. There is no a limit on how many silver trout you can take. Reds are most active around mullet schools that are enjoying the warmer than usual water in the shallows behind Honeymoon and Caladesi Islands and along Bayshore Drive on the mainland. Big topwater baits are killer early in the mornings in three feet of water or less, but big live shrimp and fresh cut pinfish will always score with the spot tails Big black drum and sheepshead are being taken around the causeway bridge pilings. Try live shrimp for both. Work your baits with the tides on the bottom around the bridge pilings and you’re likely to get a serious bend in your rod. Most are five to ten pounds, but some are huge! The flounder bite is the best we’ve had in almost 30 years! They’re
typically found on the sandy slopes around the deep channels around the causeway bridges, sandy potholes all throughout the grass flats and near the rocks at Honeymoon Island’s north beach. Live shrimp, small live pinfish and white jig and tail combos are all likely to produce plenty of nice fatties. Offshore, the grouper are so thick you can almost walk on them, but gags are closed until June. There are plenty of big grunts and porgies to be caught on the reefs and ledges, as well as some nice hogfish too. Try live shrimp to tease the hogs to bite and don’t forget to chum. Drifting hardbottom areas with squid, sardines and big jigs will produce a limit of red grouper. The deeper wrecks are still producing some nice amberjacks as well. Before heading out on you next fishing expedition make sure to stop into Barracuda Bob’s for the best frisky live baits, not so frisky frozen bait and fish-catching artificials. The friendly crew at Barracuda Bob’s will help you rig up right to catch fish and will even share current fishing hot spots with you. If you want to get away from shore and get to the real fishing hot spots you can even rent a kayak or paddle board from Bob’s that will get you there. It’s amazing how much better the fishing is only a few hundred yards away from the causeway! Barracuda Bob’s Island Surf & Sports is located at 240 Causeway Blvd. Dunedin, FL 34698. We are the last building on the right before crossing the Causeway to Honeymoon Island. Barracuda Bob’s offers the best in bait and tackle, beach and water toys, kayak and paddle board rentals and much more! Check us out on Facebook or see our website at www.BarracudaBobs.net
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Hernando County
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or you die hard anglers that don’t mind the cold, there’s still some good fishing to be had! The cold weather means that you may have to change up your tactics a little. One of the best ways to do this is to slow down your presentation. When you think you have, slow it down even more. Just think of it this way, fish get cold and don’t want to
By: Capt. Joel Gant
move around much or expend much energy. If you’re bouncing a jig along the bottom, pause it a little longer between twitches. If you’re working a topwater or subsurface plug, slow the retrieve and see if this produces a few more bites. You will also notice the bite may be lighter, if you feel heaviness or a small tug; pause for
a second then set the hook. When in doubt, set the hook. It’s also the time of year to look for the convict fish, AKA sheepshead. With the colder waters these fish can be found anywhere there is structure, look around the rock piles, docks and channel markers. I use a number one hook with a small weight and a piece of shrimp along with cut up shrimp for chum. Crabs and barnacles can also be productive baits. Using this strategy, you should have some nice sheep coming into the boat fairly quickly. The size limit is 12 inches and you’re allowed to keep 15 per person. Other inshore species like trout, redfish, black drum and snook can
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still be caught in the backwater areas. In our area, fish around the oyster beds, mangroves and deeper holes, especially if they’re near a spring. With the colder water, they will migrate to these warmer areas. The best bait to use is select shrimp, creek cubs and small crabs. If the bite is slow, try pinfish, cut bait (pinfish or mullet) or select shrimp under a bobber. For these applications I use 15 pound braid, 20 pound fluorocarbon leader, a small weight and a 4/0 circle hook. Get out there on the water and make some memories with friends and family! Capt. Joel Gant operates Fishdaddy Charters out of Hernando Beach, he knows the local waters like the back of his hand, and works both inshore and offshore trips. Check him out on face book or you can reach him at (352) 279-1615. Visit his website, www.fishdaddycharter.com
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By: Capt. Jim Kalvin
B
oaters all across Florida lost a true Friend in January with the passing of Bob Mercer. Bob was a heart and soul boating advocate who loved the Crystal River area. He spent most of his discretionary time educating the public and fighting for the funding, permits and infrastructure to restore Kings Bay and the surrounding areas from damage done over decades. The message below is from Citizens for Florida’s Waterways: “Bob Mercer, CFFW’s West Coast ally and true friend, lost his battle with illnesses on Wednesday, January 4. Crystal River, and moreover Florida boaters and outdoors enthusiasts, lost a true champion with his passing. Many Floridians are familiar with Crystal River for one reason or another, from scalloping to swimming with the manatees. Many of us are acutely aware of the deterioration of the crystal clear waters of the Kings Bay area due to the nasty presence of lyngbya choking out all other submerged aquatic vegetation and murking the waters. “Bob was a founding member and driving force behind Save Crystal River. This organization took on the massive lyngbya problem and has helped to make a real difference. Lyngbya is successfully being sucked out and grasses are being replanted. In many areas the blue hue of a clean sand bottom under clear spring water is visible again. So far, more than 70 spring vents have been reclaimed in
the community canals and once again these waters are flowing clear and clean. “We hope the legacy of Bob’s efforts in Crystal River is a complete restoration of the King’s Bay waters. “Eternal fair winds and calm seas to you Bob, your friends at CFFW will genuinely miss you”. The Board of Directors at Standing Watch echos the thoughts of CFFW, and we thank Bob as well as all of those at Save Crystal River for their time and efforts over past years. We are also thankful for the pro-active work that they have been able to accomplish. Of note is that they have literally fought with state and federal agencies, as well as environmental advocates, to institute this positive trend in Crystal River. As a matter of fact, Save Crystal River is the group responsible for forcing the United States Fish & Wildlife Service to obey their own Federal Endangered Species Act, and act on their own science to review the listed status of the manatee. SCR engaged the Pacific Legal Foundation and compelled the service to act on their research and release preliminary findings that the species should be moved from “endangered” to “threatened”. The words “endangered” and “threatened” are similar, but the legal interpretations can mean the difference between life and death for Kings Bay and the surrounding waters. Favoring the status of one species over the
health of the entire local eco-system has proven to be disastrous, and Bob and SCR have brought reason and science to an otherwise emotional and very profitable environmental issue. They have had two successful filings to force the agency to comply with their own law, and they are ready to go to round three if the service doesn’t act. Thank you Bob and the rest of the crew at Save Crystal River, you have left a legacy of intellectual honesty, actual scientific advancement and an honest love for our aquatic environment. You will be missed, but your spirit will always be with us! Join us as we move into the New Year in defense of your rights of access to Florida’s vast aquatic resources. Go to standingwatch.net and join us online at whatever level you feel comfortable. Or, you can email Capt. Jim Kalvin directly at james.kalvin61@gmail.com . Standing Watch is Florida’s largest State-wide grass-roots boating organization. See how you can become a part of their proactive effort by visiting standingwatch.net. Or call 239-821-4245.
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February is the Prime Sheepshead Month on Florida’s West Coast By: Capt. Mike Anderson
F
ebruary is the month of the Sheepshead for me and my customers. Windy conditions this month make these structure dwellers a perfect target along the docks of the intercostal waterways, bridges, markers, rock piles and artificial near shore reefs and wrecks. Sheepshead can be easily identified by their black vertical bands which stand out against a dull white, gray or yellowish background. They’re common from less than a pound to four pounds, and are fairly plentiful from five to seven pounds with the occasional 10 pound monster being caught from an offshore wreck or reef. The Florida state record is 15 pounds 2 ounces. They are one of the best table fish that swim in our waters thanks in great part to their shellfish diet. Normally they’re not an aggressive striker, but ounce hooked
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they put up a fight as good as any inshore species. Light tackle works best, but the rod tip should be firm as they have a tough mouth that can make it hard to get a quality hook set. The best bait is live shrimp, but dead shrimp and fiddler crabs will both get the job done. Small pieces of oysters and clams will work as well. My favorite tactic is to put a small to medium live shrimp tail hooked on a quarter ounce jighead and flip it up under a dock to let sit. Lead colored or unpainted jigheads seem to work best. Sometimes try a knocker rig, especially on some of the deeper structures such as markers, bridges and nearshore wrecks and reefs The live shrimp will do the work for you, and the challenge of pulling these feisty creatures from under the docks is quite exciting. It’s not uncommon for us to have 20 to 30 fish days using
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this method, and we normally come away with a few nice trout and some redfish as well. Sheepshead can fill your February with quality fish stories and some good eats for you and your family. Catch Capt. Michael Anderson every Saturday for the “Reel Animals Fishing Show” on 970WFLA from 6:00a.m. to 8:00a.m., and Sunday mornings on AM620 for the “TA Mahoney Co. Reel Animals Radio Show” from 7a.m. to 9a.m. To book a trip call 1-866-Gamefish.
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8 TAMPA | FEBRUARY 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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Freshwater Fishing Report
By: Ron Schelfo
Lake Alfred, Auburndale, Winter Haven Areas
B
ass spawning season has started, and we’re seeing many bass in the 7-11 pound range. Anglers using our old favorite, the Booyah half ounce One Knocker in royalty color
are bringing in the best fish. We’re also getting reports that the Bass Assassin Boss Shiners in electric shad or hammer time colors are doing the trick. For best results when using Bass Assassin Boss Shiners, rig them with a jighead and flip or swim them with a weighted hook. According to our fishermen, Lake Summit, Eloise, Howard, Shipp and Winter Set in the South Winter Haven Chain as well as Lake Rochelle, Haines and Alfred in the North Winter Haven Chain are providing the best results.
The photo shown is one of our anglers, Austin Chism, with a great catch from February 2016. The photo was taken on Lake Eloise. You can expect more photos like that this year. We’re still in prime spec season, reports on limits and nice sized fish up to 18 inches are coming in daily from both boats and piers on many of our area lakes. The overall best bait for catching them are live minnows. To find out where the current hot spots are, just give me a call or stop in. Many factors influence what happens out on our lakes, but our local anglers do a great job of keeping me up to date on where the fish are and what baits are working best. Polk County is home to 554 beautiful lakes and offers some of the best fishing in Florida, don’t miss out! Come out and enjoy a great time fishing our area, remember the best time to go fishing is whenever you can.
Our 18th season of Ron’s Tackle Box Weekly Bass Tournaments has now ended. We’ll be back the first of April 2017, see you then! Ron Schelfo, Owner RON’S TACKLE BOX, LLC 380 S. Lake Shore Way Lake Alfred, FL 33850 (863) 956-4990 www.ronstacklebox.com “Catch” my Weekly Fishing Report every Saturday (6-8 AM) on 970 WFLA
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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2017 | TAMPA 9
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Skinny Water Report
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By: Derick Burgos
he winter may not be the best time of year to fish in Tampa Bay, but it can still be productive and is one my favorite times to fish. One reason I like it is that I don’t have to get all wet and throw the cast net for bait fish; just a bag of soft plastic jigs or some live shrimp will do the trick. However, the biggest reason I like fishing in the winter is that we catch a lot of fish. The most sought after species in the Tampa Bay Area are speckled trout. This is the time of year when bigger trout, 20 inches and over, are common. You typically find these fish in sea grass beds. The most productive method of fishing the grass flats of Tampa Bay is bouncing the bottom with soft plastic jigs. My charters love this because a lot of them fish like this up north for bass. This is a lot of fun and you don’t need to be an expert angler to fish this way. Another popular way is using a live shrimp under a cork. This may not be the most exciting way to fish, but it is very effective, especially if you have children with you. They will catch a lot of fish and have fun doing it. Fishing the residential canals and docks of Tampa Bay is another one of my favorite
winter time techniques. It’s a great way to catch a variety of fish while enjoying some beautiful scenic homes that Florida is known for. The water in the canals along St. Pete Beach is typically a few degrees warmer because of the sea walls and docks generating heat. This warmth will attract all kinds of fish. Live shrimp with just enough weight to get to the bottom is all you need. Sheephead, redfish and black drum are the most common fish under the docks, but we also catch snook, trout, grouper and flounder. We’ve had many days where we’ve got into huge schools of reds under the docks, just like we would on the flats in the spring. Get off the couch and get on some fish. Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean the fish won’t eat! Derick Burgos is a kayak fishing guide and owner of Phatfish Kayak Charters in Tampa Bay. He has called the area waters his home for over 20 years. He specializes in Snook, Tarpon, Redfis and more on artificial lures, live bait or fly. He can be reached at 813-447-4732 phatfishkayak@yahoo.com www.phatfishkayakcharters.com
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Fishing Bridges the Gap By: Paul Presson
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he angler mentality is like an exclusive club, like-minded individuals that share the same passion. It makes no difference what color, gender, age, religion, or socioeconomic status you are from, we have that same primal fire. ”Old codgers” are more than happy to share their knowledge with the greenest of green “newbies”. The “newbies” are willing to soak up this education like a sponge. We have a “hobby” (way of life) that can cost as little as the price of a used fishing rig and bait, to unimaginable money. Most boating anglers are happy to throw out an invite for a share of
the fuel, bait and beer, and after trip clean-up. Who knows, you may find lifelong friends. Individuals that own really old/worn gear can still catch big fish.....with the right knowledge. This education is available through forums, the internet, and clubs. The price is free. Fishing is unique and wonderful. You never know who you will meet, Doctors, Lawyers, or even the head elephant trainer at Ringling Brothers Circus. Take advantage of this unique characteristic of the passion we know and love. Fishing: Bridges the Gap
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Tales from the Tupperware Navy By: Bruce Butler
Deep Sea Fishing
W
elcome back yak fans, this month we’re talking skinny water in Indian Bay and my search for Sheepies. The winter cycle is here in full force with tides as low as -0.4 to -0.9 below normal, which means I have to drag the yak a lot more than usual. Heck, if you don’t time it right just finding a usable launch site is tough. For those intrepid souls (in my case, sometimes pronounced “stupid “), they offer a whole new fishing experience. I mean, how often do you get to see a bay disappear. Besides all the extra cardio I get from dragging the yak, there is a payoff at the end. First of all, you really get to know the layout of the water. You learn all the cuts and where the natural dips and holes are on a negative tide. Plus you usually have the whole area to yourself because no one else can run that skinny. Big tide movements bring fish out of the backwaters, and if you time it right and know your area you will be ready when they come out. If you get lucky you may catch a school heading out, and be able to work your way out with them. Remember to throw to the edges of the school, not the middle. This will keep from spooking the school and will give you more time to work. My last trip was to the north end of Indian Bay in Aripeka. I dragged the kayak to the back behind Indian Key to check two holes, but they
were empty. So then I had to drag the kayak back out, in even less water than when I came in! I ended up dragging the kayak the length of a football field until I finally got back into enough water to paddle. I thought there would be fish back there but it didn’t pay off. A trick to remember for low tide is to figure out where the fish went to wait for the incoming tide. Sometimes you get lucky and they stack up in a small depression and you will see the pressure waves and tails as they feed, this is when all the hard work pays off! Work the area with soft plastics or topwater baits. The bite usually slows down at the bottom of the tide and will pick up again as you start to get a decent incoming flow. After this you do it all over again in the other direction. I picked up 10 reds last time on both sides of the tide. Don’t be afraid of those negative tides; just learn how to use them. The annual sheepshead run is happening on the flats and in the canals near you! I’ve had many reports of big ones hanging out by docks and tailing on the flats. I’ll have more on that next month.
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Hoggin’ in Tampa Bay
By: Capt. Anthony Corcella
grouper or a possibly a nice gag grouper. Remember that gags are catch and release only right now, but they’re still fun to catch! If you put these tips to use you can set yourself up for some great cold weather fishing and some of the best tasting fish you can catch.
I
f you have the patience to hunt these guys down, you can take home some tasty table fare. I use rods in the medium light to medium range, I specifically prefer Star Rods. I use a 10-15 pound rated rod, but you can go with what you will have the most confidence in. I pair these rods with 15 pound Daiwa J- Braid and a 20 pound fluorocarbon leader. I feel the most critical component of my setup is a quarter ounce jighead. Now that we talked about the setup, let’s get to how to find them. Search around the Skyway area for
the natural bottom- there’s no need to look for the biggest rock pile. I tend to have my greatest success when I fish the beginnings & ends of each tide. When fishing these areas and using this type of rig, you will also hook up with a fair amount of mangrove snappers and Key West grunts. The water depth I typically find these fish in is 25-30 feet. Regular or hand-picked shrimp work just fine for this application, but make sure you bring plenty of them. As a rule of thumb, I typically make sure to bring 15 dozen shrimp for
my clients when I’m running a four hour charter. Mitch’s Bait and Tackle always has great looking shrimp! When you’re out there hoggin’, also bring a 4/0 reel equipped with 80 pound line and matched with a stout rod. Drop a dead bait with a three to five ounce sinker (depending on the current) to the bottom for snappers and groupers. My personal favorite here is to have a butterflied Key West grunt attached to the business end. Make sure you lock the drag down and then set it in a rod holder, you just may happen to pull up a nice red
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Fly Report
By: Capt. Gregg McKee
T
ourist season is in full swing right now, and in addition to my regular anglers, I’ve also run nearly a dozen trips with people who recently bought property here in Southwest Florida. These have been some of my favorite charters because these folks are eager to absorb everything they can about the local waters before purchasing a boat to go along with their new house. The waters from Tampa to Estero Bay are the very definition of a boater’s paradise, but at the same time they’re some of Florida’s most difficult to master. Unlike the Keys, our shallow flats and oyster bars stay hidden for most of the year beneath a dark and tannic stained surface. Running aground in this part of Florida is as easy as taking the wrong side of a channel marker or misreading a tide chart. It’s an embarrassing mistake at best that can quickly become an expensive and potentially dangerous one at worst. Fortunately for today’s boaters, highly accurate GPS systems are both affordable and easily mounted on anything that floats. The days of pouring over a wrinkled navigational chart are becoming a thing of the past. In 2017 a kayaker with an iPhone has more navigational power in the palm of his hand than NASA did during the Apollo missions. That same smart phone can also show you the tides, local weather and instantly summon help if needed. This technology can work wonders for a new boater. While getting from Point A to Point B has never been easier, knowing where to look for that school of big tailing redfish is still a hard earned piece of knowledge. A lot of anglers realize this, and it’s why most newcomers are wise to hire a guide for at least a couple of trips. If you’re one of these folks, here are a few things that you should expect when you book a charter.
For starters, be up front about why you’re booking the trip. The majority of guides I know will welcome a new resident, but unfortunately some might view you as a potential spot stealer and choose to show you next to nothing on the water. When you’re talking to potential guides on the phone, they should be enthusiastic and welcoming you as a fellow angler. They shouldn’t sound guarded or hesitant because you’re also a new neighbor. You should be encouraged to bring your own gear if what you have is appropriate, but don’t be offended if the guide asks you to use his once you’re on the boat. If your reel isn’t rigged with the right braided line the guide may not want you to risk losing an expensive lure because of that. Fortunately, getting properly geared up for these fish doesn’t have to cost a fortune and most guides will be happy to give you a rundown of what you’ll need. A lot of my recent customers are also beginner fly anglers hoping to score their first saltwater fish. If you’re one of these folks then you’re especially welcome on my boat since I’ve spent much of the last two decades introducing people to this sport. Just be prepared for a good dose of frustration and humility. Trust me on this one; the tarpon off Pine Island are a whole different world from the Pennsylvania trout streams where I got started. It’s a big step up, but saltwater fly fishing is accessible to anyone willing to put in the effort. Finally, if guided trips are not in your budget, there are still a lot of ways to build up local knowledge in a short amount of time. Read “Coastal Angler” cover to cover each month and you will definitely learn a lot. The tackle shops that advertise here are also great places to shop or just hang out and soak up some information. Southwest Florida is an incredible place and you’ll rarely find a fellow angler who is not willing to share what we have. If you’re new to the area, we’re glad to have you here. Grab a rod, the fishing is great. Capt. Gregg McKee Wildfly Charters www.wildflycharters.com COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2017 | TAMPA 15
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Tampa Bay
I
t’s finally 2017 and we’re probably going to get some of our coldest temperatures this month and next. As the water temperatures drop fishing will most likely get tough. Part of the reason fewer fish are caught this time of year is because fishermen are too cold to fish effectively, or the winds make it difficult. It’s sort of the same reasons that cold fronts seem to slow things down; it’s more a matter of the how tough the angler is rather than can they get the fish to bite. Dress to be as comfortable and safe as possible. Try to stay out of the wind by fishing sheltered locations. Fishing out of the wind makes boat control and lure presentation much easier. Here are some tips for winter fishing. Fish tend to school together as water temperatures drop, so you can catch a large number of them in the same spot. Also cold weather tends to pull them out of the shallow water and send them looking for deeper water, usually in creeks and canals with muddy bottoms and docks. Their metabolism slows so they eat less food and are willing to take smaller lures and baits. Because of their sluggish metabolism fish slow down, so make your presentation unhurried and accurate. I’ve found that with smaller greenbacks a very slow deliberate reel seems to trigger more strikes. There are plenty of fish to catch during the winter months, all you have to do is go fishing.
By: Capt. Woody Gore
This time of the year we get big jack crevalle, blue fish, mackerel, sheepshead, snapper, orange mouth grunts and the list goes on. Just put on your jacket, get your rod and reel and head out for a fun day on Tampa Bay. Fishing is one of those on and off again things in the cooler months which also depends on the sardine situation (if you’re using live bait). If you can get live baits you’re ahead of the game. Greenbacks off the flats usually run smaller during the cooler months, so downsize your hooks and leader. Keep in mind that as the temperatures drop, to look for deep water canals, rivers and creeks with muddy bottoms. Incoming or outgoing tides and a topwater lure produce awesome trout strikes on a calm early morning flat. Of course the old standby, a live shrimp under a popping cork always results in fish. The trout population is strong and we have been landing some large trout. The 20 plus inch fish seem to be more plentiful than in the past few years. So, if you’re looking for some nice trout action, don’t forget to check out grass and rock bottoms with some artificial jerk baits. Many times you’d be surprised at the results. As cooler weather approaches the algae dies and the waters begin clearing. This triggers some fairly decent sight fishing for the much sought after redfish. Low tides and clear water make sight fishing reds a shallow water anglers dream. We’re also catching reds in
mullet schools using cut, live bait and also artificial lures as well. So, you can also expect some exciting strikes when pitching soft plastics or top water’s around the mangroves on high incoming tides. Winter patterns also include pitching shrimp and artificial lures around deep water residential docks. Grouper and snapper fishing has been very good despite the recent tighter regulations. Going out and catching a lot of bottom fish never seems to be a problem, even the nearshore bite is doing well. However, keeping up with all the rules and regulations can be a pain. It doesn’t seem reasonable to spend the money on gas to run far offshore grouper and snapper fishing with all the new limits and closures. Recreational gag grouper season is closed from January 1 through May 31. Red Grouper season is closed from February 1 through May 31. Other Shallow-water Groupers include black grouper, yellow-mouth grouper, scamp and yellowfin grouper. These species are closed from February 1 to May 31. Red snappers are closed from Jan 1 - May 31. The cooler temps should push cobia into the warm water runoffs of local power plants. Be certain
to adhere to the restricted areas. Don’t forget to check the shallow water beach edges adjacent to the runoffs because cobia like migrating to and from the warm water along the shorelines. If you’re looking for sheepshead try checking around bridges, oyster bars and deep water docks. Use mussels, fiddlers (if you can find them), small black rock crabs, shrimp or oysters. Remember you can scrape the oyster covered pilings as chum to get them going. “Give Me a Call & Let’s Go Fishing” – 813-477-3814 Captain Woody Gore is the area’s top fishing guide. Guiding and fishing the Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Tarpon Springs, Bradenton and Sarasota areas for over fifty years; he offers world class fishing adventures and a lifetime of memories. Single or Multi-boat Group Charters are all the same. With years of organizational experience and access to the areas most experienced captains, Woody can arrange and coordinate any outing or tournament. Just tell him what you need and it’s done. Visit his website at: WWW. CAPTAINWOODYGORE.COM, send an email to wgore@ix.netcom. com or give him a call at 813-477-3814.
16 TAMPA | FEBRUARY 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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Always wear a personal flotation device while boating and read your owner's manual. All Honda outboards meet EPA and CARB emission levels.
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Capt. Sergio’s Corner
By: Capt. Sergio Atanes
Turn On the Heat
T
he winds are blowing, tides are low and the water is too cold for the fish to bite right now. But don’t lose hope, thanks to the hot water runoff from the power plants; February can be a productive month. Snook, redfish, pompano, grouper, jacks, trout, sharks and cobia are just a few of the species which invade the warm waters of power plants. Each power plant has its own restrictions on where you are allowed to fish, so follow their rules and you can enjoy some great fishing all winter long. Remember, the lower the water temperature the better the bite, and combined with low tides you have the perfect ingredients for a successful fishing trip. The low winter tides from high pressure systems force fish into deeper waters in search of warmth.
In my experience, the best time to fish has been from sunrise to 10 a.m. depending on cloud cover. On cloudy days you can stretch it a couple of extra hours and on bright sunny days, maybe less. Once the sun’s rays start to warm the water, the fish have a tendency to move towards the outer edges of the channel and even into deeper flats to feed, and return again at sunset. Where you fish will dictate how you are going to fish. When fishing the center of the channel, you will find that fish such as snook, flounder, pompano and redfish tend to feed on the bottom. Here I use a small quarter ounce egg sinker, if the current is strong I will use a heavier weight. I’ll also use 20 pound test fluorocarbon leader Texas rigged with a 1/0 or 2/0 circle hook. Trout will tend to feed mid water in the center of the channel. Here I free line the bait with no sinkers or use a Cajun Thunder float with the bait suspended about four feet under it. Cobia and sharks prefer the surface; I use heavier tackle like 30 pound fluorocarbon leader and 2/0 to 3/0 circle hooks. As the sun rises the fish will tend to migrate to the edges of the channels and eventually to the mouth of the channel and into the flats. Live shrimp is the favorite bait this time of
year. Small blue crabs and live greenbacks also work well if you can find them. If you’re using artificials, banana jigs are great for pompano and flounder and MirrOlure’s #52M11 medium runner bait is a killer on trout and jacks. Logic Lures and D.O.A. shrimp worked slowly on the bottom will get some nice snook and redfish. Deep running plugs like Mann’s Stretch 15’s work great when slow trolled along the edges of the channel, I have caught many a grouper doing this method. Structure scan or side scan depending on the brand you have can give you the upper hand on finding where the fish are. I have a Lowrance HDS12 with structure scan and I can find a small rock or structure often missed with your standard sonar. Captain Sergio Atanes is a native resident of Tampa and has been fishing the waters of Tampa Bay and Boca Grande for over 45 years. He is owner and operator of S & I charters which is one of the largest charter booking services in the West Coast of Florida with 55 professional captains on staff. Capt. Sergio Atanes can be reached at (813) 973-7132 or www.reelfishy.com
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Local Business Spotlight: FISH since 1978
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AINT PETERSBURG –The acronym FISH stands for Fisherman’s Ideal Supply House which describes exactly what FISH is all about. This locally owned boating and fishing supply store was created to provide fishermen everything they need to outfit a boat for the water, as well as, the supplies needed to catch fish all in “One Stop”. Since that time, FISH has been an integral part of
the fishing community in Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico for almost 40 years. Doug Dunsizer, the founder, incorporated FISH in 1978 along with its “One Stop” philosophy. Today, FISH still follows that mission. Historically, they have been known as the place professional fishermen went to get their fishing gear. Through the years, FISH has had to change with the times, and through its relationships with all the major manufacturers in the marine and tackle industries, now offers a complete line of boating and fishing supplies for everyone on the water at affordable prices. Fisherman’s Ideal Supply House caters to anyone that has a boat or likes to fish. They carry one of the area’s largest selections of fishing tackle, boating supplies, foul weather gear and marine hardware from all the major brands. You can get an anchor, chain, oil and filters-practically anything you need to maintain your boat you can get here. If you are looking to catch some stone crabs this season stop, in--they have all the supplies you’ll need. Recently they began stocking a wide variety of blue water tackle that
All Your Boating & Fishing needs in "One Stop" Family Owned & Operated Since 1978
By: CAM Staff
can’t be found at other retailers. In addition to the hard to find tackle items, they offer a complete line of electric fishing reels and all the tackle to go with it. This coming year, FISH is expanding more into the digital arena. This will provide a foundation to increase their online presence and more efficiently keep what customers are looking for. At FISH, they pride themselves on service and provide some of the best one on one customer care you will find anywhere. With their almost 40 years experience in the marine and fishing industry FISH has the resources to find anything you might be looking for--even if they don’t have it in stock. Over the last several months, they have completely remodeled their warehouse with tons of new displays and organization for a better shopping experience--a definite must see. The store is located in the Bay Pines area off Seminole Boulevard. It’s a little tricky to find, but it’s worth the effort. Give them a call for directions and they will guide you right in. Take a trip to St. Pete and visit FISH. You’ll be glad you did!
Your “One Stop” boating and fishing shop.
Mon-Fri 8:00am - 5:00pm Saturday 8:00am - 12:00 pm
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2017 | TAMPA 19
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Lake “O” North End Report
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ass fishing on the north end of the Big ‘O’ has been up and down, just like the weather. Cooler water temperatures and windy days have made for some tough days, but this is Okeechobee, where on any given day the fish
are biting somewhere. On the days where we’ve had cold fronts bringing the water temperature down, the Kissimmee River has produced good numbers and big fish in the 11 pound range. When temperatures drop, deep water ledges and points are just what the doctor ordered. Carolina rigged worms and deep diving crank baits are great baits to try on cold days. Live shiner fishing in deep water when the water is cold is usually very good. Put a shiner right on the bottom and wait for a bite just like you would if you were fishing with a float. The only difference is instead of watching a bobber
you’ll need to watch your line. If you see your line jumping around you can bet your shiner just saw something that he does not want to see. Deep water areas on the north end of the lake are the Kissimmee River, Government Cut and the Rim Canal. All of these places have rock ledges and underwater humps that will hold fish. In the Rim Canal, stick to the lake side of the canal where the shoreline break is usually quicker (deeper) and where there is more vegetation to provide shelter for the bass. Remember that a good fish finder is very handy when fishing deeper water, a good graph is a must have when locating structure in these areas. When the weather is nice and you can get out into the lake, Grassy Island, Kings Bar and Tin House Cove have been very good areas to fish. But remember, if the water temperature drops from a cold front the bite can be very tough, so head toward deeper water. Winter also brings plenty of windy days which raises the question of where to fish, mastering the wind is one of the biggest keys to success. Areas inside of Eagle Bay and Cody’s Cove can protect you from the wind
By: Capt. Eddie Perry
and produce some nice bass. The speck fishing continues to improve as we move further into winter and closer to spring. Indian Prairie, Horse Island and Third Point have produced good limits of specks on jigs and minnows. Fishermen that are drifting out in front of Taylor Creek are catching limits as well. Chartreuse and white jigs as well as lime green jigs have been very good, but always have a good assortment of colors and sizes when you go. Over the recent weeks, the specks have been running quite large; reports of two to two and a half pound slabs are quite common. Be sure and stop by Garrard’s Bait and Tackle for all your fishing needs, live or artificial bait they have it. Capt. Eddie Perry is a 5th generation Floridian and owner of Okeechobee Adventures Guide Service. He has fished the Big ‘O’ since he was a child and has professionally guided on the lake since 1996. There isn’t much that he hasn’t seen on the lake. He can be reached by telephone at (863) 763-7722, web www. OkeechobeeAdventures.com, Facebook.com/OkeechobeeAdventures, or at Garrard’s Bait and Tackle.
20 TAMPA | FEBRUARY 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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RECIPE OF THE MONTH:
SAUTÉED SALMON, BLANCHED ASPARAGUS, WILD RICE WITH HOLLANDAISE SAUCE • Set one pot on stove and bring to a boil
Paddling tandem - a fishing duo
Sometimes it’s better together
Cook:
I
realize this is not a local fish; it is available in every supermarket. That is why I decided to make it! Living in the Tampa Bay Area there are times when the seafood market will do just fine. I mean we can’t fish everyday, even if we want to! Enjoy... Ingredients: • 2 8oz. salmon fillets • 4 tablespoons Olive oil • Seasoning of your liking (I used Emeril’s Seasoning) • 1 bunch Asparagus • Wild rice of your choice (I used Vigo wild rice) • 4 egg yolks • 2 tablespoon Lemon juice • 1 Stick of butter unsalted • Pinch of Cayenne
• Start rice, let cook. It usually is about 25 minutes. • In the last 10 minutes I do the following • Take olive place in sauté pan. When hot place salmon fillets 2 ½ minutes on each side to cook. • Remove boiling water from stove throw in Asparagus for 5 minutes, until bright green. Don’t overcook or it ruins the taste and texture.
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Sauce: • Melt I stick of butter. I do it in the microwave. 3 minutes at ½ power. • Take bowl with egg yolks and whisk in the 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Place double boiler on stove and put to low/med. • Slowly whisk in melted butter. It will be thin, let stand for thickness. If it gets too thick add a tablespoon of warm water and stir. This process takes about 5 minutes. • Pinch of cayenne on top of complete dinner. Serve:
Prep: • Wash and clean fish, pat dry, Season to taste and place on plate. • Wash and trim Asparagus, cut white part off the end. • Put 2 pots of water (one for Asparagus, and one for rice). • Separate 4 egg yolks in a small double boiler.
I place wild rice on plate with salmon on top, Asparagus on top of salmon and drizzle the sauce on top of all of it. It looks pretty and tastes fantastic. If you have any questions, comments or would like to share a recipe of your own, contact Michelle at cnmoasis@gmail.com
Trader Bay Seafood Company
& Steamed Live Blue Crabs Fresh Seafood Fried Seafood Platters
TraderBaySeafood.com 4006 Shoal Line Blvd. Hernando Beach, FL 34607
(352) 597-5170 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM | FEBRUARY 2017 | TAMPA 21
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Flats to Nearshore Report By: Capt. Gary Burch
T
his time of year in the Clearwater and Dunedin fishing areas, cold fronts will push through every week or two, sometimes even twice a week and bring colder and drier weather. The strong northwest and northeast winds push a lot of water out of Clearwater and Dunedin bays and at low tide expose grassy bottoms and oyster beds in the backwaters, canals and mangrove cuts. The deeper holes adjacent to these high and dry areas may be holding lots of fish. Don’t frown going fishing on a low tide, while checking out the deeper areas, you may find your honey hole. Redfish and trout have been our targets this winter and when found, they are very lethargic and spooky. A very stealthy approach should be used at every location. I’ve had good results catching big gator trout in Clearwater Bay using sixteenth ounce jigheads with Cal Shad Tails in darker colors and Mister Twister Paddle tails in root beer with sparkle. The key to catching big gator trout on artificials is to drift along spotty grass and sand areas, like the ones north of Dunedin Causeway, making long casts and retrieving very slowly. Let the jig brush along the bottom and through the grass. Also let the jig stop for a few seconds before
continuing, most likely the strike will come at this moment. Fish are not going to move very far or too quickly in the colder water to feed. Slow it down and take your time. This time of year, redfish will be scattered in the shallow water flats up next to land areas and mangroves in the Dunedin fishing area. If you find them at lower tides in the deeper holes, follow the fish as they move up on the flats and closer to oyster beds as the tide rises. The bite is slow in the colder water, but they should eat a live shrimp, cut bait or a variety of artificials. Don’t let cold fronts keep you high and dry. After the front passes, we usually have the best weather in the country. There are plenty of opportunities to get out and catch fish during the winter months. Capt. Gary Burch owns and operates All Catch Charters and specializes in live baits and artificials. He guides inshore, flats and backcountry from Clearwater to Tarpon Springs. To reach Capt. Gary for a charter, please call 727 458-6335 or visit his website: www.allcatchcharters.com
(727) 317-4949
www.stpetefishingoutfitters.com
3450 34th Street North (Hwy 19) Saint Petersburg, FL 33713
22 TAMPA | FEBRUARY 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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Pick up a copy of Coastal Angler Magazine every month at these local businesses! Apollo Beach Land’s End Marina West Marine Belleair Bluffs Marlin Darlin Key West Grill Brandon Dick’s Sporting Goods West Marine Clearwater Blue Shark Bait Shop Clearwater Bait & Tackle Dick’s Sporting Goods Hooters Rest Joe’s Crab Shack Mac’s Sports Rick Daddys Eatin Fresh Rumba Island Grill West Marine Clearwater Beach Bait House Tackle & Tavern Cooters Rest Crabby Bill’s Rest Crabby Bill’s Rest Hooters Rest Island Way Grill Jimmy’s Fish House Pier 60 Bait House Pier House 60 Marina Hotel
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1/17/2017 3:58:29 PM
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24 TAMPA | FEBRUARY 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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IT'S BOAT SHOW TIME! www.
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www.MitziSkiffs.com
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A DREAM WEDDING
By CAM Staff
From left, Capt. Kevin Rose and Capt. Judy Helmey officiated and witnessed the wedding of Erin Bodnar and Casey Maday, of Des Moines, Iowa, aboard the Miss Judy Too before catching a pile of fish for the reception.
L
ove and the smell of sheepshead were in the air on Jan. 6 aboard the Miss Judy Too out of Savannah, Ga. It was a dream wedding for bride Erin Bodnar and groom Casey Maday, of Des Moines, Iowa. The couple got hitched while bobbing over an artificial reef off the coast of Georgia with captains from Miss Judy Charters officiating and witnessing the event. “It was a grand day for a wedding and fishing,” wrote Capt. Judy Helmey in a special edition of her weekly fishing report. She added that it was a, “one fiddler one fish kind of a catching deal.” And it’s a good thing the bite was so hot. After the ceremony, the newlyweds and the crew burned through 267 fiddler crabs to boat this mixed bag of sheepshead and black drum. They were on a mission, because fish is on the menu for the couple’s wedding reception back in Iowa.
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@CAMTAMMagazine
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CASTING DISTANCE POWER AND REEL SETTINGS
By Tobin Strickland • Photo Courtesy of Lews Reels
O
ne of the first things any angler can improve to catch more fish without getting new gear is to increase his casting distance. The first adjustment to make is the “spool tension” knob on the right hand side of any baitcaster. With the lure just hanging from the end of the rod tip, first tighten the knob, then release your thumb and slowly unscrew the tension knob until the lure just begins to fall. On the left side plate, you’ll see the centrifugal brake external setting. If you are new to throwing a baitcasting reel, start with a setting of about 4-6. If you have an internal centrifugal brake, set at least two brakes “out / engaged.” If you want to cast far, you have to make a powerful, rod-loading, casting stroke. It’s compact and uses 2 hands. It’s not a big one-armed cast. Tighten the spool tension knob about a quarter turn and practice casting hard. Once you’re throwing your hardest without backlash, slowly begin loosening the settings and feathering the spool edge a little. Slowly adjust the centrifugal brake setting looser, one click, or one brake, to maximize cast distance. Then slightly re-adjust the spool tension knob. In the end, I find that I can still adjust slightly lighter and manually feather the spool edge with the thumb. This is where you’ll get your longest cast distances. Cast hard my friends. Tobin Strickland (aka TroutSupport) is a field staff angler for Lews Reels.
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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MUTTON SNAPPER REGULATIONS CHANGES Photo by Andy Blackledge
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everal mutton snapper management changes approved at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) September meeting are in effect for 2017. • Recreational, commercial, importation and sale minimum size limits will be 18 inches in all state waters. • Recreational bag limit will be five fish per person within the 10-fish snapper aggregate bag limit in all state waters. • Commercial trip limit will be five fish per person, per day or per trip from April through June in Atlantic state waters. This replaces the prior May through June commercial trip limit for all state waters. • A 500-pound commercial trip limit for the remainder of the year (July through March) in Atlantic state waters. Though mutton snapper is not overfished or undergoing overfishing, the 2015 stock assessment indicated that the population is smaller than previously estimated. Atlantic federal fishery managers recently approved measures that would make Atlantic federal regulations similar to the recent state changes. Gulf federal fishery managers are also considering making similar measures for Gulf federal waters. These changes are intended to prevent harvest from exceeding the planned federal quotas, or number of fish that can be harvested. To learn more, visit MyFWC.com/Fishing and click on “Saltwater Fishing,” “Recreational Regulations” and “Snappers.”
VERY EXPENSIVE FISH By CAM Staff • Photo Courtesy of Canyon Reels
W
hen you think about it, it’s not as ridiculous as it sounds. According to the Associated Press, a sushi chain boss in Japan recently made a $632,000 winning bid for a 466-pound bluefin tuna at auction. That’s the second highest amount ever paid for a bluefin, and it equates to more than $1,356 per pound. That’s a mighty pricey chunk of fish. But when one looks at the money a recreational angler spends on fishing each year, $1,356 per pound is really not all that outrageous. The average angler in the United States spends about $1,261 per year on the sport. This average includes everyone from the bank-bound bucket-sitter to the guy who spends a million clams on a sport-fishing yacht. The range of expenditure is wide; as is the per-pound return on that expenditure. Someone who fishes bait from shore might only spend a couple hundred bucks a year on gear, bait and gas to get there. If they’re good, they might bring home several pounds of good protein every time they fish. It’s a tradeoff that is economical if one disregards the lost wages from time spent watching a rod tip. On the other end of the spectrum, it would take a lot of fresh-caught dolphin at market price to pay for a decent offshore rig and the gas to run it. This is a scenario in which the angler likely pays a whole lot more per pound than the Japanese sushi boss. And then there are the catch-and-release purists. Whether its billfishing, fly fishing for trout or tournament bass fishing, those who catch fish to release them are looking at a price per pound that is infinite.
4
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Marsh Harbour, Abaco features its share of quaint resorts, including the Abaco Beach Resort and Boat Harbour Marina the Sandpiper Inn and Cottage and Four Winds Cottages. Treasure Cay boasts the luxury Treasure Cay Beach, Marina and Golf Resort, a highend spot frequented by celebrities. Out on the flats, the water is still, a perfect mirror reflecting the cloudy sky. It is a gorgeous day to bonefish. Albury maneuvers through the flats like only a native could. He swerves through tightly packed mangroves at breakneck speeds until we reach the spot. At that moment, he cuts the engine and begins poling the boat. I sit at the bow, rod in hand with shrimp for bait. Albury surveys the waters and points out a bonefish at my two-o’clock. I cast my line but miss. “Throw it out again,” Albury says. I cast again and reel it in just enough. Suddenly, a splash on the surface and a tight line tell me the fish has the bait. We fight for a moment until I reel him to the edge of the boat. Albury grabs him and turns him on his back sending the fish into a catatonic state. There is excitement onboard. As we surveyed for another catch, I explained to Albury that my father is a bonefish guide in Crooked Island. “I love fishing,” I say to him. “You know if you love fishing once you hook a fish,” Albury says. “If that doesn’t excite you, nothing will.” Interested fishermen can reach Jody at jodysbonefishing.com.
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e set out on a small boat shortly after 8 a.m. on a warm Wednesday morning. For Jody Albury, this is just another day of bonefishing in Abaco, Bahamas. He’s been a professional guide for 10 years, but an avid fisherman since he was a boy. Jody, a quiet yet jovial Abaconian, has serviced fishing enthusiast from the around the world. He quit his day job to make a living doing what he loves, bonefishing. Abaco, one of the 700 islands of The Bahamas, is regarded as one of the world’s premier destinations for bonefishing. Thousands of anglers descend on the Abacos during the winter months in search of the elusive gray ghost. The island and its cays are in the northeast Bahamas 91 miles northeast of Nassau, Bahamas, a 20-minute plane ride, and 120 miles from Miami or an hour plane ride with flights from American Eagle and Silver Airways, to name a few. The Abacos are made up of nearly a dozen cays. Unlike most other islands in The Bahamas, visitors can take a ferry to the various cays including Hope Town, Green Turtle Cay and Great Guana Cay. Some rent yachts or other boats and sail the cays themselves. My first stop in Abaco was Hope Town with its scenic beaches and historic candy striped lighthouse. Hope Town features a small community where most everyone moves around by golf cart or bicycle. The island is quiet yet filled with life, hotels, small properties and bed and breakfasts. The architecture features colonial design, a lingering tradition from the Loyalists who settled in the Abacos centuries ago. Hope Town fuses rustic charm with modern advances. It’s easy to sit on a hammock under two palm trees and watch Netflix.
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By Paul Lebowitz
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n nearly 20 years of kayak fishing, I’ve seen the boats radically change. These days they are purpose-built for angling, and much more stable and forgiving. On the other hand, the thinking on what makes a good kayak rod has scarcely evolved. There’s been little need. For most applications, off-the-shelf gear made for the general fishing market works fine. A standard bass or flats quiver will suit you well whether you’re fishing from a ’yak, a powerboat or the shore, although the adjustable butt of Manley Rods’ offerings is a nice feature. It’s only when you get to big game that the need for specialized kayak sticks is magnified. Let’s cover the big exception: the rod tip. When landing a fish from a kayak, you’d do well to have some glass for shock absorption. High-sticking is almost inevitable. Most big game kayak anglers fight their fish while sitting. An intermediate length butt is an advantage, something on the order of 12 to 13 inches, about 2 to 4 inches shorter than normal. That’s just right for tucking into your belly while seated. A strong backbone is a plus for easier fish management, particularly when the battle is in its closing stages. Rod length is a matter of preference. It’s nice to have enough reach to get the tip around the bow, but it isn’t strictly necessary. If you’re hooked up and you point your rod tip at the bow, the fish will pull the kayak around to face it.
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COOL WATER SUSPENDERS
water, but they will still have an eye on what’s going on, as a prey in their stomach is still necessary to fuel them. What I like to do is fish slowly, twitching suspending baits once or twice between long pauses. And sometimes these pauses are truly long pauses. I’ve found that’s one thing most people have a hard time doing. Most are unable to pass the two or three second mark without feeling the need to twitch their bait again. When I’m on a spot that’s worth it, or if I catch a By Patrick Sebile glimpse of a nice fish, I will hold my suspending Stick Shadd still for up to 30 seconds. It might feel like an eternity; it might feel worthless, but some of my best inshore catches came on such long, 15- to 30-second pauses. I keep the rod tip down close to the water, and I don’t rely on feeling a bite. I leave a little slack in my line, no more than 6 or 8 inches, and watch the line very closely. Most of the time the bite is just a tiny tap that is hard to feel but very easy to see on the line. If the line moves just an inch or two, that’s it. Set the hook without delay. You might be surprised at the trophy fish you’ll catch with such minimal action. Another technique that produces well for me on cold water is simply to cast and retrieve my suspending twitch bait super slowly. I sometimes retrieve it so slowly that it This nice trout was caught in Vero Beach, Fla. on a suspending Stick Shadd 114 using won’t even have any side-to-side action at all. Yep, you very minimal action and long pauses. read that right. Just the lure moving through the water straight ahead and slowly is the right presentation on o matter where you are in North America, winter brings cold winds some days. In cold water it will often out-produce the and sore throats to all. And the effect is even more brutal on fish than typical action-packed movement of this type of bait. men. Immersed in the water, in an unstable environment that changes It may seem surprising, but it’s efficient. In both cases, a suspending bait quickly, they have no choice but to exist the best they can where they are. is key, as well as the patience and confidence to resist working it too quickly There’s no option for fish to go on a cruise in the Bahamas to tan their or erratically. scales in the tropical sun. And the shallow-water inhabitants feel the impact Patrick Sebile is the owner and lure designer of Sebile Innovative Fishing even more than the deep-water ones, given that the skinny depth they live (www.sebile.com). in can drop in temperature sharply. Their behavior can turn sluggish, but For more tips on cold water fishing, go to they still need to feed. It is therefore crucial to adjust the lure’s action to their temperature-driven mood. Airline_Ad_CoastalAngler_8-1-14_Layout 1 8/1/14 1:14 PM Page 1 Seatrout and redfish will dive into grass to limit their exposure to colder
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By Brandon Tourigny Brandon Tourigny with an Everglades bass caught on a Lefty’s Deceiver.
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f all the different methods of fishing, fly fishing has a reputation for being one of the more overpriced methods for landing fish. With all of the extremely high-end rod and reel brands in the fly fishing world, it can be a little disheartening for those trying to get started. As a broke college student who has to also buy food, gas and textbooks, purchasing the newest Sage rod and Tibor reel just wasn’t in the budget for me. Since not fly fishing wasn’t an option, I had to find ways to get quality gear at a more reasonable price. Here are a few brands I personally like that have proven to be affordable and reliable pieces of equipment for me. Temple Fork Outfitters produces some fine rods for the money. With all their rods ranging from under $100 to around $450 for their most expensive rod, it’s not hard to find a rod in their line that fits your budget. A rod I highly recommend is the TFO Mangrove. This rod comes in sizes from a 4 weight all the way up to a 12 weight, costing anywhere from $250 to $300. Another thing TFO has going for them is their no-nonsense lifetime warranty. A good warranty is something a lot of fly rod makers provide, and it is an important consideration because rods break. For reels, the best deal I’ve seen are actually some of the off-brand reels found on Amazon and produced by brands like Piscifun or WetFly. The thing about fly reels is you don’t need them to cast. Until you get a fish on and need a smooth drag or to pick up line quickly, all they do is store line. If your targets are panfish, small bass or seatrout, it’s likely you will seldom even need a reel except to hold your line. On the other hand, if you expect to do battle with bonefish, tarpon or redfish, a good reel becomes very important. Although they don’t carry the prestige of the American-made reel companies, reels like the Piscifun Sword are made from 100 percent CNC machined aluminum, and based on my experience and the testimony of other fly fishermen, these reels hold up considerably well. When you also factor in that most of these reels come in under $100, it’s hard to find a reason to not at least give these reels a try. If you are a stickler for only buying American products, I would suggest taking a look at the Waterworks-Lamson Liquid and Remix which both come in at $160 or less and are both assembled in Lamson’s factory in Idaho. At the end of the day, fish don’t care how shiny or expensive your equipment is. The only thing that matters is if you can present a fly to them in a manner realistic enough for them to eat it. So, if you’ve been hit by this incurable disease called fly fishing but can’t afford the high prices, there’s no need to fear thanks to affordable and highperforming rods and reels
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UNDER THE SEA
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SHERI DAYE
peargun selection is one of the most hotly debated topics on spearfishing forums. Fortunately, there are many great brands nowadays – such as Wong, AB Biller, Riffe, Hammerhead, Cressi, SEAC, Mares, Rob Allen, Koah, Mako, JBL and more. Over the last century, spearfishing equipment has evolved from very simple muscle-powered slings and polespears, made with wood and rubber bands, to the modern-day spearguns equipped with a trigger mechanism and more exotic materials. Interestingly, slings and polespear are making a comeback—but that’s a topic for another month—so let’s concentrate on how to select a modern-day speargun. If you walk into your local dive shop, you will notice there are two main categories of band-powered spearguns: the American style, usually recognized by the wood stock, and the Eurogun, which has a tubular shaped barrel and a rear handle. The Eurogun originated in Europe where most spearfishing is freedive-only, fairly deep, and for small, easily spooked fish. Hence these spearguns have a low-profile, streamlined design and thinner shafts. If you are diving in similar conditions, the Eurogun style might be for you. On the other hand, if you want a sturdy, durable and easy-to-load gun that will handle bigger fish, you might lean toward the American/wood-style gun. This is also the style used for big powerful tuna guns, because they can be ballasted and accommodate up to six bands. There’s also a hybrid design, which incorporates the best elements of both with wood stock in the back and a carbon fiber tube in the front. Once you’ve chosen between styles, the next question is length. Most Eurogun sizes are 90 to 160 centimeters, and most American guns are between 36 and 65 inches. So, with the conversion from centimeters to inches, they have pretty much the same length range. If you are diving in low visibility or hunting in rocks like they have in California or Rhode Island, you would choose a shorter gun. If you are hunting spooky fish in clear waters like mutton snappers in Florida, you would opt for a longer gun. If you are just getting started and expect to dive in variable visibility, 130 centimeters or 50 inches would be a good medium length for an all-around reef gun.
Sheri Daye hunts with a Wong Hybrid Speargun. Photo by Joe Marino.
Here are some additional tips: 1) Join a local spearfishing club and learn from the more experienced people. Observe what equipment they use and ask for advice. 22) Shop at a dive store that caters to spearfishing. They carry more choices and have experienced personnel to help you choose. These include Austin’s in Miami; Florida Freedivers in Palm Beach; James & Josephs in San Diego, Calif.; Freedive Shop in Sacramento, Calif. and more. 3) Check out the custom-gun builders. There are some high-quality builders who will work with you directly, give you advice, and design it to your specs—such as Wong Spearguns from Hawaii or Sea Sniper from California. Most importantly, you should pick a style that suits you and the conditions you dive in. Chances are you will get hooked and add more spearguns to your arsenal in the future! Follow “Sheri Daye” & “The Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo” April 22-23, 2017 – Ft. Lauderdale - Instagram and Facebook.
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TIPS FROM A PRO
FRESHWATER THE REBIRTH OF 8- TO 10FOOT BASS RODS BRANDON LESTER
E
ver since I can remember, there has been a rule in B.A.S.S. tournaments barring the use of rods longer than 8 feet. To my knowledge, it is because Dee Thomas and other Californians were using 10-foot and longer rods for “flipping” when the technique was first invented. Evidently the powersthat-be back then didn’t like this new way of fishing, so they banned the use of long rods. At the conclusion of 2016, B.A.S.S. decided to change this rule and allow us to use any rod up to 10 feet in length. Bass fishing has evolved
they fight. The extra rod length will help keep the line tight during the fight, giving the fish less opportunity to escape. For the small wooden crankbaits, the longer rod gives control over how deep the bait dives. Hold the rod tip up, and the bait dives shallower. Stick a couple feet of the blank in the water, and it runs deeper. Add longer casting distance and you will be hitting depths never before achieved with some baits. A longer rod will also be beneficial for flipping and pitching. We all know what
tremendously in the past several years, and there is no doubt this rule change will be another big breakthrough. Will long rods become the norm in everyone’s boat? I don’t think so, but I believe these rods will have a time and place in bass fishing. I have been busy building and testing a few of these longer rods with the guys at Mud Hole Custom Tackle. We’ve made encouraging findings. The first long rod I built is a 8’6” medium power spinning rod. I wanted a rod to cast small, wooden crankbaits on light line for more distance. I also wanted this rod to act as a drop shot rod for open-water smallmouth fishing. Although I don’t see myself using this rod all the time for drop shotting, imagine a scenario where you are casting a drop shot in current and need that extra length to control the way the line drifts. Also, anyone who has ever fought a river smallmouth knows how hard
happens when we set the hook on a 12-inch bass with a 7’6” rod, well imagine what will happen when you set the hook on one with a 9-foot flipping stick. We’ll be jerking 3-pounders out of the thickest cover! When that 10-pounder bites, she might not be the one that got away anymore. There might be cases where a long flipping rod is more efficient, as well. The technique of flipping, as it was done originally, by stripping line through the guides and never using the reel, will probably come back to light because we can now use a rod long enough put a bait where it needs to go. I will be building a long flipping stick before the elite series heads to Lake Okeechobee. What better place to try it out than the land of the giants? Keep tabs on 8-foot-plus rod building by visiting www. MudHole.com, and hit me up on Facebook with any questions.
Get more tips from Lester at
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I am often asked when is the best time to plant fruiting plants. My answer is usually the same; the best time is 20 years ago or today. The second best time to plant is during the winter months. Plants are dormant, and can be easily shipped and planted with no stress on the plant because there is not a lot of maintenance once the plant or tree has been planted. Simply dig a good hole, water thoroughly
at planting, and take the rest of the winter off. Even though there are no signs of growth above ground, the root systems will have time to get adjusted to their new location and begin to initiate new root growth. There are plenty of advantages of growing your own edibles. First of all, you know what has been done over the course of the growing season from a chemical stand point. Second, the fruit just taste
better coming out of your home orchard versus buying fruit from the grocers that have little to no flavors. Thirdly, it is good for your soul and you will feel more connected to the environment and nature. Whether it is an apple tree, muscadine vine or a blueberry bush; now is the time to plant. Let’s Grow Together. Greg Ison, Ison’s Nursery and Vineyards, 800733-0324, www.isons.com
“ I had the chance to test the new Bossman TailSpotter and I must say I was very impressed. I’ve run a lot of boats in my career and this boat is as good if not better than anything I’ve driven.” Capt. Mike Hakala, Aqua Dream Lures
SKIMMER TUNNEL HULL
19,950
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SPRUCE UP AND SUPER-TUNE YOUR REELS BossmanBoats_.25_0716.indd 1
T
ackle geeks have climbed high rungs of reel optimization for decades. Their basic game remains the same today: super-tune fishing reels by adding premium components and applying best cleaning and maintenance practices. But better materials and technology have elevated expectations of what fishing reels can be made to do. Russ Lane, who has earned six appearances in the Bassmaster Classic, took his habitual tackle tinkering to high-tech heights several seasons back. Lane today replaces standard reel parts with premium components that extend reel life and enable spools to spin at dazzling RPMs. What’s the fisherman’s takeaway after these reel transformations? The clearest advantages are longer casting distances, better control, heightened casting accuracy, and improved feel and sensitivity. Some premium reel components—strikingly colorful multi-textured reel knobs and anodized star drags and cast control caps, for example—can practically turn reels into showpieces, too. “Fishermen can’t believe what custom components can add to a reel’s capability,” said Noah Arroyo, owner of Off the Hook Reels. “And some fishermen are just as attracted to the unique colors and finishes you can bring to a reel and the rich look of premium parts.” Consider replacing standard reel parts with these upgrades: • Ceramic bearings – Ceramic bearings or ceramic hybrid bearings (the latter feature ceramic balls in a stainless steel or plastic cage) can elevate reel performance dramatically. Ceramic bearings can range up to 60 percent lighter than stainless steel bearings. They generate less heat and lower vibration levels, too, reducing friction as the spool revolves. Spool RPMs may climb dramatically, extending casting distance and improving accuracy by reducing the effort required to execute a cast. They also possess five times the life expectancy of stainless steel bearings. The one downside is that they produce a very audible hum, a turn-off to some anglers. HawgTech promotes its ABEC-7 hybrid bearings in nylon cages as allowing “a more free spinning bearing that also runs quieter.” • Carbon Fiber Reel Handles – Lightweight carbon fiber reel arms are
the most common reel upgrade. The difference in weight and sensitivity from conventional reel handles is discernible. They also give a sleek, skeletal look to the reel. • Winn Reel Knobs – Reel knobs made from Winn’s patented WinnDry polymer deliver the same all-weather “tacky” feel and security that Winn grips bring to fishing rods. “The Winn knobs available from HawgTech are so good, your grip never slips even when hands are wet or coated with fish slime,” said Arroyo. Two of Lew’s Best of Show awards at ICAST 2016 featured fishing reels with Winn reel knobs. HawgTech offers these knobs in several bold colors. • Anodized Aluminum Star Drags, Cast Control Caps – Colorful anodized aluminum can give a reel an “auto show” glow. You can go with matching or complementary color options for star drag controls, cast control caps and related parts. Maintenance steps: Of course, flashy parts alone won’t optimize reel performance. Make sure the internal workings of your reel are flawlessly cleaned and lubricated, too. “You have to optimize everything when you super-tune. Polish and clean ends and shafts and pinion gears,” said Arroyo. “When you do and then add your ceramic bearings and premium parts, you really end up with a great piece of machinery.”
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TAUTEN LINEWELDER Sick of having to learn and tie complex knots? The Tauten LineWelder creates a weld that is actually stronger than any knot. The device creates a “sleeve” of thermoplastic polymer around both ends of a looped line, holding the loop in place without bending or weakening the line. Knots weaken the line, and most lines’ strengths are rated with a knot, so using a Tauten LineWelder in place of tying a knot lets you get a connection that’s stronger than the advertised strength of most lines! The process is quick, easy, consistent and doesn’t require you to tie complicated knots. It’s perfect for new fishermen or veteran anglers who don’t want to bother with finicky knot tying. Just loop the line in the device, pull it taut and push the button to create a weld. This device can help fishermen who don’t want to tie complicated knots by removing the need entirely and allowing anglers to focus on the sport they love. The LineWelder works best on 10- to 12-pound-test monofilament nylon and fluorocarbon lines and 10- to 50-pound-test braided lines. Using an experimental technique, it can even join braided lines with monofilament nylon or fluorocarbon leaders to eliminate the need for a swivel. Accessories to weld a wider variety of lines are currently in development and will be available in the future. Visit tauten.com for more information and to see videos of the LineWelder in action. The Tauten customer service staff is always eager to answer any questions, so don’t hesitate to contact them.
WWW.TAUTEN.COM
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UR-Cut
Fillet Knives
The only custom moldable handle fillet knife.
Ergonomically perfect. Virtually non-slip. Unmatched comfort. Unmatched control. Takes minutes to do.
UR-Cut features the same legendary DEXSTEEL, super-sharp edge, and just-right flexibility that you are used to with Dexter... 1.Dip handle in boiling water for 2 minutes. 2. Dip in cold water for 1 second. 3. Grip and form handle for 10 seconds. 4. Put back in cold water for 10 seconds and your done.
DEXTER UR-CUT FILLET KNIFE Dexter UR-Cut Fillet knives are the only fillet knives that allow you to custom mold the handle to your hand. UR-Cut provides the ultimate in comfort and control and is virtually non-slip in your hand. It’s simple and takes only minutes to customize UR-Cut to fit your hand. First, grip the handle and determine your grip position, paying attention to your thumb position. Dip and completely submerge the handle in boiling water for 2 minutes. Make sure the pot is deep enough so the handle does not contact the bottom or the sides of the pot. Then dip in cold water for 1 second, grip, squeeze, and hold the handle for 10 seconds. Dip back in cold water for 10 seconds and let cool. You now have a custom fillet knife, molded to fit your hand. Just like other Dexter knives, UR-Cut features the same legendary DEXTSTEEL blade, with super-sharp edges that are easy to re-sharpen and have just-right flexibility. UR-Cut fillet knives are made in the U.S.A. and are available in 6”, 7” and 8” lengths. Available at your local and online retailer. For more information and to view all Dexter fishing knives visit dexteroutdoors.com.
WWW.DEXTEROUTDOORS.COM
dexteroutdoors.com
NEVER WAX AGAIN! RESTORE AND PROTECT YOUR BOAT Poli Glow does what wax can’t! As seen on Ship Shape TV
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“Recommending Poli Glow is a no brainer.” - PRACTICAL SAILOR, the #1 consumer resource of the U.S. boating industry
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THE ONLY LURE WITH THE PATENTED
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• Jet Trail • Action Lip • Rattle Chamber • Works with all predatory fish 386•310•7165 • Designed and tested by fisherman PiranaFishingLures.com
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FISH & FISHING
A DIFFERENT APPROACH MARK SOSIN
A
small sign on the corner of my attorney’s desk warns his clients to “Assume Nothing.” That caveat is just as valid on the water as it is in the practice of law. If an angler does not start catching fish within minutes of arriving at a spot, he begins to assume that his quarry must be elsewhere. The assumption, of course, is that he has chosen the right bait or lure and presented it in a natural and appealing manner to a fish that is ready to eat. A fish’s behavioral patterns, honed over eons, follow very specific guidelines with few deviations. Anything that differs from the norm instinctively alerts a fish that something may be amiss and it thinks of its own safety first. Regardless of size, a predator does not expect to be charged or attacked by its prey no matter how small the prey is in relation to the predator. That’s why a 3-inch fly made of feathers can spook a 100-pound fish. And remember that fish do not feed constantly for a variety of reasons. Most species use tidal currents, water flow, or the neck of a funnel to their advantage as they search for food. They either hold facing the current, swim against the flow, or work across it. Whenever you present a bait or lure, it should be upcurrent from where you expect the fish to be so that your offering appears to go with the flow. That tenet even applies when you are casting to a cruising fish. The more natural the presentation, the better the chance of a strike. Your quarry automatically measures energy tradeoff. The idea is to exploit each situation so they will expend the least amount of energy for the value received. That translates into the fact that they frequently refuse to chase a bait or lure very far before turning away. An ambush feeder merely wants to dart out, grab its prey and return to its lair. Bottom denizens follow a similar practice. If your offering isn’t close to the sea floor, it’s difficult to get them to swim toward the surface to get it. Successful bottom bouncing starts upcurrent and allows the bait to drag along in the productive zone. Once it sweeps above the quarry, the potential for getting a strike diminishes rapidly. Water temperature enters the energy tradeoff equation. In cold or even cool water, fish react sluggishly because the water temperature slows down their metabolism. It might even force them out of their usual lair in search of warmer water. In those situations, choose baits or lures that are easy for a fish to catch and slow down the retrieve or the trolling speed. And remember, in cooler water it takes fish longer to digest food so they feed less frequently. Those who catch fish consistently study and comprehend the basics of feeding strategy. You can be sure that the behavioral patterns of each species are not about to change. That puts the onus on you to modify your tactics until you uncover the combination that works. Before you abandon a spot because you think it doesn’t hold fish, make sure you have explored the full gamut of options. If you do make any assumptions, convince yourself that a fish is looking at your bait or lure right now. The results might surprise you.
For More Mark Sosin Visit
CAMFISHING.COM Fishing Lights Dock Lights Flounder Lights 785-621-2646
fishinglightsetc.com COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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NEW INTERLUX MICRON WA BOAT PAINT Micron WA (Water-Activated) is the newest addition to the AkzoNobel’s Interlux industry leading Micron Technology product range. It is a showcase antifouling paint that offers long-lasting, multi-seasonal protection in a water-based formulation. Micron WA combines powerful antifouling performance while reducing impact on the environment, leaving a smooth, clean hull. This paint is ideal for cruise, power and sailboats and suitable for all waters. Using a novel paint technology called Water Activated Matrix, Micron WA delivers a crisp, vibrant color and uniform appearance to provide a striking, attractive finish, while at the same time efficiently releasing the active ingredients to deliver powerful antifouling performance. More information is available at: www.yachtpaint.com/usa/diy/ products/antifouling/micron-wa.aspx
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LIMIT 800-4 purch Offer prese
Cus
IT
LIMIT 800-4 purch Offer prese
Cus
LIMIT 800-4 purch Offer prese
100 SW TR
ITEM 410
SU
$
$
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4000 PEAK/3200 RUNNING WATTS 6.5 HP (212 CC) GAS GENERATORS ITEM 69676/69729/63080/63079 shown ITEM 69675/69728/63090/63089 CALIFORNIA ONLY
212 CC 70 dB ENGINE SUPER QUIET LOW OIL SHUTDOWN
$
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$28999
339$43999 comp at
Wheel kit sold separately.
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ITEM 69606/61173 68099 shown
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Customer Rating comp at
49
99
$169.99
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20% OFF
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99
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99 19 $34.95
2.5 HP, 21 GALLON, 125 PSI VERTICAL AIR COMPRESSOR
2500 LB. ELECTRIC WINCH WITH WIRELESS REMOTE CONTROL SUPER COUPON
ITEM 69091/61454 61693/62803 67847 shown
ITEM 61258 shown 61840/61297 68146/63476
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7" VARIABLE SPEED POLISHER/SANDER
ITEM 69474/62861 60626 shown
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39
1000 LB. CAPACITY SWING-BACK TRAILER JACK ITEM 69780 41005 shown
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44", 13 DRAWER INDUSTRIAL QUALITY ROLLER CABINET
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SAVE $65
8999 comp at
$119.99
$149
comp at
Customer Rating ITEM 69387 62744/63271 68784 shown
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9 9 $17999
• Weighs 245 lbs.
$349
99
$446.61
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379
SAVE $330
comp at 99 $679.99
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POWDER-FREE NITRILE GLOVES SAVE PACK OF 100
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thickness
Item 68498 shown
62%
YOUR CHOICE
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99
SIZE MED LG X-LG
7
ITEM 68496/61363 68497/61360 68498/61359
$ 99
Customer Rating
Includes hook, mirror, magnet accessories, and video-out cable.
2.4" COLOR LCD DIGITAL INSPECTION CAMERA ITEM 61839 62359 shown
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79
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94
$
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99
11999 $179
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ITEM 63056/63057/60405/63094 63150/61524/62322/90984 shown
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10" SLIDING COMPOUND 72" x 80" MOVING BLANKET MITER SAW ITEM 69505/62418/66537 shown SAVE ITEM 61971 61972 98199 shown
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comp at
ITEM 63100
4
$ 97
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comp at
$34.95
SUPER COUPON Customer Rating Weighs 73 lbs.
185 99 $
20"
94 $269.99
comp at
reight.com or by calling our stores or HarborF t or coupon or prior LIMIT 5 - Good at used with other discoun with original receipt. 800-423-2567. Cannot be from original purchase be purchases after 30 dayss last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must day. Offer good while supplie 6/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per presented. Valid through
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LET THE BATTLE BEGIN The Slammer is back! Featuring a full metal body and rotor, IPX6 sealed gear box and spool design, a full Brass CNC Gear system,
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