Coastal Angler Magazine - June / Tampa Bay

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TAMPA BAY EDITION

&

Boats Motors Edition

VOLUME 22 • ISSUE 268

Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM

F R A N C H I S E

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Local

O P P O R T U N I T I E S

A V A I L A B L E

JUNE 2017

W O R L D W I D E

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YOU’RE GONNA NEED A BIGGER BOAT. THIS ONE.

™

Introducing the Element F21: As low as $25,499* Our largest center console to date, we designed the new Element F21 to be three things; fishable, versatile and affordable. We started with our proven M-Hull™ design, giving it a deeper entry for even more seaworthiness.

Then we gave it the features anglers demand to make sure it was serious about catching fish—plus options should you choose to expand your activities. Its most attractive feature could be its price. Shop if you must… we’re pretty sure you’ll end up here.

Go to bayliner.com to learn more.

©2016 Bayliner Boats. All rights reserved.

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*All prices reflect MSRP in US dollars and apply to the US only.

Dealer sets the actual price. Pricing does not include dealer preparation fees, taxes, registration fees, or other fees that may apply. Freight not included. Customers outside US must contact their local dealer to obtain applicable pricing.

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© 2017 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries

THIS SEEMS TO BE THE PLACE WHERE ALL THE FISH HANG OUT. I THINK I’LL DROP IN.

12”

PROGRAMMABLE

HOT KEYS

PRELOADED

BUILT-IN

BLUECHART® G2 + LAKEVUU¨ HD CHIRP SONAR + CLEARVUU¨ + SIDEVU¨

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© 2017 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries

Ben Martin

Editor In Chief Coastal Angler/The Angler Magazine

EDITOR IN CHIEF : Ben Martin • camads@coastalanglermagazine.com VICE PRESIDENT : Tracy Patterson • tracy@coastalanglermagazine.com ART DIRECTOR : Rebecca Snowden • graphics@coastalanglermagazine.com EDITOR : Nick Carter • editorial@coastalanglermagazine.com WEBMASTER : Dmitriy Pislyagin • webmaster@coastalanglermagazine.com

Dear Readers, This edition of the magaine that you are reading is put together by our local franchisee co-publisher. Your co-publisher’s contact information is shown in the directory adjacent to this article. We currently publish 38 separate editions of this magazine each month throughout the Continental United States, the Bahamas and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Our plan is to continue growing and to continue adding locations. If you love the outdoors and have ever considered owning your own business, you owe it to yourself to take a look at our franchise opportunities. Our franchise publishing model will enable you to make money doing what you love, being involved in the outdoor/marine industry.

You don’t need to have prior publishing experience. We train you on how to do that. What you do need is a love of the outdoors and a somewhat adventurous spirit. Opening a new business is exciting and, yes, it requires hard work and commitment. But, once you bring this magazine to your community you will find it to be very rewarding and you will have created one of the best jobs and career opportunities that any angler could ever imagine.

If you’re like us, owning your own fishing magazine may be an opportunity for you to be involved in an industry that you’re passionate about. Imagine never dreading to go to work but rather being excited about sharing the message of your magazine.

Our ideal strategic growth would have franchise opportunities in the following locations, however, we have found that nearly any area that has an avid fishing community can be a good location for it’s own fishing magazine.

GULF COAST (Available Now) • Baton Rouge, LA • Lafayette, LA • Corpus Christi, TX • Austin, TX • Mississippi FLORIDA • Okeechobee, FL

SOUTHEAST (Launch March 2017) • Raleigh, NC • Savannah, GA • Southwest Georgia • Hilton Head, SC • Columbia, SC • Myrtle Beach, SC

Come Join our Team!

NEW ENGLAND • New Hampshire (the entire state) • Maine (the entire state) • Western Massachusetts • Gloucester, MA • Cape Cod, MA GREAT LAKES • Milwaukee, WI • Detroit, MI • Cleveland, OH • The Adirondacks, NY

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: Corporate Headquarters info@coastalanglermagazine.com • 888-800-9794

FLORIDA

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 • (321) 436-5895 • donm@coastalanglermagazine.com FLORIDA KEYS : Cliff Lumpkin • (305) 849-9093 • cliff@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 Brasher • (352) 598-4219 • maryf@coastalanglermagazine.com NAPLES : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@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 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

SOUTHEAST

ATLANTA/SW GEORGIA : Bob & Brenda Rice • (706) 614-8231 • bobr@theanglermagazine.com CHARLESTON : Jane A. Redden • (205) 725-9616 • jane@coastalanglermagazine.com

Sam Buckareff • (843) 607-8629 • sam@coastalanglermagazine.com CHARLOTTE : Mark & Haley Alberghini • (704) 651-1934 • mark@coastalanglermagazine.com MYRTLE BEACH : Kenneth & Ana Moore • (843) 446-5777 • kenmoore@coastalanglermagazine.com TIDEWATER/OUTER BANKS : John Tiger • (757) 707-9654 • john.tiger@coastalanglermagazine.com

Laura Seitz • (757) 707-9655 • laura@coastalanglermagazine.com SE & COASTAL GEORGIA : Tony Martin • (912) 269-9679 • tony@coastalanglermagazine.com

Travis Harper • (912) 266-1430• travis@coastalanglermagazine.com UPSTATE SOUTH CAROLINA : Gregg Thompson • (864) 542-3112 • gregg@theanglermagazine.com WESTERN NC : Debra & Joe Woody • (828) 775-9663 • woody@theanglermagazine.com WILMINGTON/MOREHEAD : Kenny Ritter • (910) 550-9094 • kenny@theanglermagazine.com

NORTHEAST BOSTON : George Regan • (617) 488-2842 • boston@coastalanglermagazine.com LONG ISLAND : Lisa & Michael Danforth • (203) 321-7635 • lisad@coastalanglermagazine.com CONNECTICUT / RHODE ISLAND : Lisa & Michael Danforth • (203) 321-7635 lisad@coastalanglermagazine.com

GULF COAST

GALVESTON/MATAGORDA/UPPER COAST : Chanci & David Mowry • (713) 446-7395 •

chancim@coastalanglermagazine.com • davidm@coastalanglermagazine.com MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST : Kevin Ogle • (850) 586-3474 • gulf@coastalanglermagazine.com NEW ORLEANS : Dr. Dave Dunaway • (225) 400-8156 • nola@coastalanglermagazine.com PENSACOLA/EMERALD COAST : Kevin Ogle • (850) 586-3474 • gulf@coastalanglermagazine.com

GREAT LAKES

UPSTATE NEW YORK : Frank Geremski • (518) 898-6484 • frankie@theanglermagazine.com WEST MICHIGAN : Phil Belsito • (616) 957-1714 • phil@theanglermagazine.com

INTERNATIONAL BAHAMAS : Misti & Gary Guertin • (772) 285-6850 • treasurecoast@coastalanglermagazine.com

flahama@coastalanglermagazine.com PUERTO RICO/VIRGIN ISLANDS : Ace Bassue • (407) 285-9453 • ace@coastalanglermagazine.com © 2017. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.

Disclaimer: Coastal Angler Magazine / The Angler Magazine will not be held liable for injuries incurred while partaking in activities described herein, or for claims made against products or services provided by advertisers.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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HondaM

Destination Honda

For destinations found on a map, or ones that are simply a state of mind, trust a reliable Honda outboard to get you there. And back. Find out more at ca.hondamarine.com.

3.99% APR Financing On All New Honda Outboards! Ends July 6, 2017. *

APR

FINANCING*

*APR financing available on all new Honda outboard engines through American Honda Finance Corporation upon approved credit. 3.99% APR financing for 24 – 48 months, available to customers who qualify for AHFC credit tier 1. Example for new Honda outboard engines: 3.99% APR for 36 months financing at $29.52 a month for every $1,000 financed. 4.99% APR for 60 months financing at $18.87 a month for every $1,000 financed. 4.99% APR for 84 months financing at $14.13 a month for every $1,000 financed. Offer good on any new and unregistered Honda outboard engine, with a minimum amount financed of $1,000 and a minimum monthly payment of $100. Check with participating dealers for complete details. Dealers set actual sales prices. For well-qualified buyers, not all buyers may qualify. Higher rates apply for different terms and/ or buyers with lower credit rating. Lower rates may also be available. Offer valid through 07/06/17, on new and unregistered Honda outboard engines (2hp – 250hp) and only on approved credit by Honda Financial Services through participating dealers. Honda Financial Services’ standard credit criteria apply. © 2017 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM I JUNE 2017 I NATIONAL 7 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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MOTOR REVIEW Honda Marine Debuts New

BF4, BF5 and BF6 4-stroke Engines

Portability, performance and reliability are the hallmarks of Honda Marine’s new and redesigned portable engine models, the BF4, BF5 and BF6 4-stroke outboards.

Honda Marine debuts new engines with the BF4 and BF6 models, and redesigns the legendary BF5 models. Packed with the latest technology from Honda, the 127cc 4-stroke, single cylinder engines offer boaters the choice of four horsepower (BF4), five horsepower (BF5) or six horsepower (BF6). All three new engines are available with either a short (15 inch/38 cm) or long (20 inch/51 cm) shaft.

“The new Honda BF4, BF5 and BF6 engines are easy to start, easy to stop and easy to carry. The new four-stroke Honda Marine engines are best-in-class performers. They are the right size for the right purpose,” said Mark DiPietro, senior manager, Honda Marine. “The new Honda BF4, BF5 and BF6 marine engines feature a new internal fuel tank and new motor mounts to run quietly and smoothly, while delivering the longest continuous running time.”

The new Honda Marine BF4, BF5 and BF6 engines provide consumers four main features—portability, performance, reliability and comfort.

Portability A combination of light weight (roughly 60 pounds) and new carrying handle design make the Honda BF4, BF5 and BF6 marine engines easy to transport and store. The tiller handle fully folds out of the way, making storage options even more convenient.

Performance The engines integrate a 1.5-liter, large capacity internal fuel tank, which delivers the longest continuous running time in their class—more than 40 minutes at wide-open throttle. In addition, the Honda BF5 and BF6 4-stroke engines can be connected to an external fuel tank for longer journeys. Consumers have the choice of an additional three different propeller options for the style that best fits their boating.

Reliability Honda Marine’s new BF4, BF5 and BF6 models share the same, proven onecylinder, 127 cubic centimeter engine block and benefit from Honda’s 4-stroke engine technology. In case of an oil pressure drop, a new, low-oil alert system will automatically limit the engine speed to 2,300 rpm to protect the engine.

Comfort The new Honda BF4, BF5 and BF6 portable engines feature a host of new technologies and features that consumers will appreciate.

• A new decompression mechanism helps make all three new Honda Marine engines easy to pull start, regardless of the engine temperature.

• One-push stop switch serves to shut down the engine with no chance of the engine re-starting.

• The Honda Marine BF4, BF5 and BF6 portable engines feature redesigned rubber motor mounts that reduce vibration in all rpm ranges and reduce engine noise.

• The BF4, BF5 and BF6 are available with an optional charging system with a capacity of 6 Amps at 12 Volts to power consumer demands for electronic devices.

With a starting U.S. manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $1,875, the BF4 is a compact, lightweight engine with excellent low- to mid-range power.

The new Honda BF5 delivers new features and technology at a starting price of $2,025. The starting U.S. MSRP of the new Honda Marine BF6 is $2,150.

For more information, see marine.honda.com.

Promotion Ends 6/30/2017

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Using a Smartphone Isn’t Always Smart On The Water Submitted by Sea Tow

P

eople rarely go anywhere on land without their smartphones anymore, and it has become increasingly common to see boaters using cell phones when they’re out on coastal and inland waters as well. That’s fine—as long as your boat is also equipped with a VHF radio, one of the most important pieces of safety equipment you can have on board.

“Your cell phone could die or you could drop it overboard. We recommend people take a 5-watt handheld VHF along on their boat, at a minimum, to use as their primary form of communication on the water,” said Capt. Ed Schrader, owner of Sea Tow Hampton Roads, Va., which serves the busy waters of Hampton Roads, Virginia Beach and Chesapeake Bay. “It’s better to have a 25-watt VHF mounted at the helm, however.”

N AU T I C A L T E R M

Capt. Sammy Royal, owner of Sea Tow Horseshoe Beach, Fla., which covers a rural stretch of the Gulf Coast on Florida’s Panhandle from Waccasassa to Keaton Beach, said boaters can’t rely on their smartphones always “having bars” in his area. “Cell phone service is very limited here. There are small fishing villages along the coast that are nine or 10 miles apart with nothing in between,” he said − making it essential to have a VHF on board.

Another important benefit to using a VHF radio rather than a cell phone is that if you ever find yourself needing assistance, more than one listener can hear and respond to your call for help. “With a VHF, you are able to communicate with more people quickly on the water. Whether it’s Sea Tow, the Coast Guard, or a nearby boater, everybody’s going to hear what you’ve got to say,” said Capt. Schrader, adding, “The USCG’s Rescue 21 System also has VHF direction-finding capabilities and can obtain a relatively good location as soon as you click your mic and place that distress call.

This helps greatly if you do not know your location or don’t have time to provide it.”

Of course, a VHF radio can’t help you in an emergency situation if it’s not working properly. Both Captains advise using Sea Tow’s free Automated Radio Check service to quickly and easily check that your boat’s VHF is in operational prior to setting out on the water. To use the service, simply tune the VHF to the local Automated Radio Check channel, key the mic, and request a radio check. You will hear an automated response and then the call will be played back to you, confirming that your VHF radio is working and allowing you to assess transmission strength, a crucial safety check.

Sea Tow Horseshoe Beach offers the Automated Radio Check service on VHF channels 26 and 27. Sea Tow Hampton Roads provides the service on channel 28. To find the Sea Tow Automated Radio Check channel in your boating area, visit https://www.seatow. com/tools-and-education/automated-radio-check.

For more on Sea Tow, an international marine assistance provider, go to www.seatow.com.

# 1 7 8

full ahead: How Sea Tow Captains operate 24/7.

Running out of fuel or a conked out engine can happen to anyone. That’s why you bought ® a Sea Tow membership. They’ve got the equipment, experience and know-how to get you home quickly & safely. $10 off a Sea Tow Membership.

Discount Code: CNG 800-4-SEATOW \ seatow.com

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Adjustable cap with brim UV-blocking polarized sunglasses SPF 30 bug-repellent sunscreen

You're protected from the elements.

What about your boat?

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CoverAlls gives your boat the same level of protection from the heat and elements you'd give yourself.

CoverAlls covers prevent expensive weather damage to your boat. They're made from tough custom material that's saltwater-proof, UV proof, and reflects 90% of radiant heat.

100% American marinegrade components like stainless grommets, braided poly draw cords, and non-metallic cam locks keep CoverAlls covers in place in all kinds of coastal weather.

Give your boat CoverAlls protection.

Save 10% with coupon code "angler" at checkout!

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sales@coveralls.biz

www.coveralls.biz COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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Boat Accessories Product Reviews AWLGRIP AWLCRAFT SE TOPCOAT With consistent technical innovation and stringent quality controls, Awlgrip’s line of topside finishing systems are the products all others are measured against. Those who take pride in the look of their vessels, whether they are dinghies or megayachts, trust in the superlative finishes provided by Awlgrip.

Awlcraft SE is a revolutionary topcoat encompassing metallics, pearls and effect pigments and is fast drying with excellent opacity. It is designed to work as one layer of a multi-part system. The Awlcraft SE imparts the color and effect and is then top coated with a clear high-gloss finish topcoat to give gloss and protection. This combination forms a high-performance, high-gloss, durable topcoat system.

Available for new custom or production builds, or refits, the Awlcraft SE range offers owners a great choice from more than 10,000 standard colors, as well as custom colors to match any color imaginable.

MILLENNIUM D-100 DECK CHAIR Millennium Marine has introduced the most weather resistant and durable deck chair on the market. The Millennium D-100 Deck Chair exemplifies the comfort, portability and durability Millennium has become known for.

The D-100 is designed for portability and easy storage, and it is built with high strength, anodized aluminum. The anodized aluminum prevents corrosion, whether the D-100 is asked to perform under the rigorous conditions of saltwater or freshwater fishing.

D-100 Deck Chairs are equipped with Millennium’s patented ComfortMax seat, which makes wet bottoms a thing of the past.

They are made from a breathable fabric that won’t collect water. They are mold and mildew resistant, quick drying, and they will outlast any marine seat on the market.

With 4 inches of height adjustment, and the capability to swivel 360 degrees, the D-100 Deck Chair is equipped with selfleveling feet for stability. It weighs just 12 pounds and folds up for easy transport in a nylon carrying bag.

ERGONOMICALLY ELEGANT DOCK SURFACES

WWW.AWLGRIP.COM PARKIT360 FORCE ELECTRIC TRAILER DOLLY

WWW.MILLENNIUMMARINE.COM

If you own a boat, you know the stress of backing your trailered pride and joy into a tight space. With this in mind, we took it upon ourselves to take Parkit360’s Force 10K electric trailer dolly for a test spin.

Right off the bat, we were impressed. Assembly was easy, and by connecting the trailer’s power harness to the Force, we were able to control the trailer’s brakes with the Smart Brake Control System, which provides control and safety on a steep grade. Also the Bosch-designed electric motor supplied more than enough power to maneuver with little to no effort on the part of the user.

The heavy-duty 4’-wide tires maintained traction on concrete as well as gravel and even in wet grass when loaded. The Force dolly proved its functionality regardless of terrain, and that could come in super handy for those parking boats, campers or anything else with a trailer ball where the concrete ends.

But the most striking feature of the Force electric trailer dolly was how easy it made maneuvering the boat. With precise and easy-to-use controls, all the stress was taken out of navigating tight corners and turns in forward and reverse. We put the boat into spots we wouldn’t even attempt using a truck.

Built of quality materials, powder-coated and compact enough to fit in the trunk of an SUV, Parkit360’s electric trailer dollies are a great tool for anyone who pulls a trailer.

Spider King rod holders make your fishing more productive.

A modular Spider King rod holder system lets a fisherman “rig, cast and relax” with as many as eight lines in the water.

And the same system can also keep a drink and tackle on hand.

The plates attach to the bottom of the boat seat using existing factory holes, therefore there is no need to drill. Accessories include rod holders, drink holder, tackle holder and tackle/drink holder. We also offer outriggers by the pair in single, double and a four-rod holder gunnel-mount spider rig.

Spider King products are made in the USA of 100 percent marine grade aluminum and they are powder coated so there is no maintenance or cleaning. Most items are available in black, white and argent silver.

Visit the Spider King website to view all of their fine products.

WWW.PARKIT360.CA

WWW.SPIDERKINGRODHOLDERS.COM

SPIDER KING ROD HOLDERS

MARINETECH TROLLMASTER PRO 3+ Trolling is not as fun or effective for the guy tied to the motor. The world’s leading remote throttle control for gas-powered auxillary outboards is now available with wireless remote control. TROLLMaster Pro 3+ is an angler’s dream, allowing the angler to maintain optimum trolling speeds to within 1/10 mph. Slow trolling anglers understand that boat speed can make or break the day’s catch. TROLLMaster maximizes the time spent in the ‘sweet spot.’ Catch more fish with the freedom of movement that wireless control offers.

Additional features include momentary ‘max throttle’ burst function for quick response or for ‘fluttering’ baits; idle/resume speed, left and right turn push button control. The hand-held remote is ergonomically designed for hours

of comfort. The remote is water resistant and comes with detachable lanyard and backlit LCD display for positive visibility in dark conditions. Engine specific throttle/hardware kits fit neatly under the cowling and are available to fit most brands of kicker motors.

TROLLMaster also allows the angler to control the auxiliary 4 stroke’s steering with the addition of Panther’s Electro Steer drive units. The Panther T-4 and T-5 Electro Steer units are designed to remotely steer ‘kicker’ motors from anywhere on the boat. They mount on the tilt-tube and can be installed in minutes. Electro Steer units are available in fresh and saltwater models.

WWW.TROLLMASTERS.COM PARTNERS AND INVESTORS:

Please contact John 12 NATIONAL I JUNE 2017 CANGL_NAT3-NAT34.indd 12

Munn info@ergodockusa.com for information on how you can get engaged!

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NOT ALL FISH STORIES ARE EXAGGERATED.

M

We’ve all heard one. But the fact is, once in a while, life hands you a set of circumstances so astoundingly awesome, it’s hard to believe.

And with the power and reliability of the Mercury 60 HP FourStroke behind you, this might happen more often than you think.

:M

Learn more at mercurymarine.com

!

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The all-electric Power-Pole Micro anchor is compact, virtually silent and drives the 3/4” Micro Spike at the push of a button. Add the rechargable Micro Battery Pak and you’re ready to go wherever adventure takes you. Get all the details and find a dealer near you at power-pole.com.

Mercury Unrolls Advanced New Features For Joystick Piloting

F

or almost 80 years, Mercury Marine has been the world’s leading manufacturer of recreational marine engines. The broad range of marine propulsion spans from 2.5hp to 1,700hp in Mercury’s new racing sterndrive engine. Over the past decade, Mercury has invested more than $800 million in research and development and expansion into its global headquarters in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. That investment has allowed the company to grow its employee base from 1,400 in 2009 to more than 3,200 in 2017—which includes more than 700 engineers.

The investment has also allowed Mercury to continue its cadence of averaging one new product launch every six weeks.

Today, Mercury is more than an engine company. It’s a marine propulsion solution company that not only has a portfolio of engines for any boater, but also the technology to enhance the boating experience.

Mercury’s ecosystem of technology is unmatched in the marine industry and features Joystick Piloting for outboards or inboards, SkyHook virtual anchoring, Vessel View mobile and Active Trim. All four products work together with the engine to create the perfect experience on the water and allow boaters to Go Boldly.

The latest innovation from Mercury is an enhancement for Mercury

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Joystick-equipped vessels. Designed for convenient purchase as downloadable content (DLC) from Mercury’s GoFree store, Skyhook Advanced Features provides Joystick vessels with even better positioning control in specific situations.

Boaters and anglers who love the way Mercury’s GPS-enabled Skyhook lets their vessel maintain a steady position while waiting for a bridge opening or hold over a reef, will be sure to appreciate Skyhook Advanced Features.

New Skyhook Advanced Features include: • Heading Adjust provides Joystick operators with the ability to adjust the heading lock in 1- and 10-degree increments while SkyHook is active, making vessel control even more precise.

• BowHook can be used to unlock heading and just maintain position, allowing the boat to point in whatever direction the winds and currents dictate. This feature is useful when a locked-in heading is not necessary.

• DriftHook lets the operator maintain heading and unlock the position of the vessel allowing winds and currents to move the vessel along. Adjustments of 1- and 10-degree increments can be made while drifting when bundled with Heading Adjust.

In addition, Mercury continues to advance its Vessel View mobile technology and roll it out around the world. The VesselView Mobile app instantly provides users access to their boat’s SmartCraft digital data in the palm of their hand.

SmartCraft® is a fully integrated suite of digital technologies, including marine gauges, sensors, vessel systems and computercontrolled features, that gives 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 Maintenance Reminders, Mapping, Performance Summary, and Fault Code Diagnostics.

VesselView Mobile makes preparing for and spending a day on the water easier, safer and more enjoyable by letting users perform functions from their mobile device.

For more information, visit www.mercurymarine.com.

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BOAT REVIEW Bayliner Element F21

in the forward section—which can also be converted to an optional livewell. The helm’s reversible seat has a cooler as its base, perfect for keeping beverages or snacks iced.

The boat’s aft section features two jump seats flanking a recirculating livewell. Standard power is Mercury Marine’s 115 HP 4-Stroke outboard, with an optional 150 HP 4-Stroke also available. Anglers can also add a bow trolling motor, pedestal bow fishing seat, and an additional livewell forward of the helm console.

“This boat is our largest center console model yet, and an affordable way to get out and enjoy family fishing, cruising or any number of dayboat activities,” said Bayliner’s President, Keith Yunger. “Its roominess and versatility are exceptional. When you factor in the price, it’s a value you’ll be hard pressed to beat anywhere.”

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UNDER THE SEA 18

FREEDIVING – TRY IT!

W

hile visiting a friend of mine about 15 years ago, I noticed a book on his coffee table. It was called “Bluewater Hunting and Freediving” by Terry Maas, and it had the photo of a diver holding a bluefin tuna on the front cover. I already enjoyed hunting on scuba for groupers and snappers in my backyard, but the thought of spearing a tuna intrigued me to no end… and the thought of freediving also caught my attention.

I had a hard time finding like-minded friends to dive with at first, as freediving was not a mainstream activity in Florida at the time.

After researching a bit, I found a freediving school called Performance Freediving International and signed up for a course. I also found a freedive spearfishing club, which consisted of about 10 guys and no women. To this day, I give the same advice to anyone who wants to learn: “Take a class from a freedive agency, and join a local club so you can make friends and perhaps find a mentor.”

Before the class, I had never tried to hold my breath while holding still in a pool—called static apnea. I was predicting that I would be a one-minute diver, but after some instruction I held my breath for four minutes. Most importantly, I learned how to avoid a “blackout” and how to rescue a blacked-out diver. We were taught the importance of the buddy system and one-up/one-down diving. While these classes will at least double your breath-hold time, learning the safety aspects is even more important.

Fifteen years later, I can look back and say that learning to freedive opened a whole new underwater world for me. Now that I’m an oldster in the sport, I marvel at the growth rate, the number of agencies offering classes, the number of clubs in the area, and the large number of people that are in those clubs. It’s wonderful to see so many young people enjoying the sport.

Lest I give the impression that freediving is a young people’s activity or something that super-athletes do, let me debunk that myth. I have met overweight smokers that were very good at it, and I’ve been diving with 80 year olds who were still enjoying it. Freediving is for anyone

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who is willing to give Photo by Joe Marino it a try. Whether it’s to spearfish, experience the ocean in a different way, or simply find your inner-self at the bottom of the ocean, it’s an activity that anyone can enjoy.

It’s a natural, satisfying and spiritual experience to hold one’s breath and become one with the ocean. If you have the slightest interest, do not be intimidated; it’s actually very easy.

Just give it a try… you might like it!

P.S. Terry Maas just came out with an updated digital version of the book, and I am honored that he featured my worldrecord yellowfin tuna.

You never know what will happen when you try new things!

Sheri Daye is a world-record holder, host of Speargun Hunter, and producer of “The Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo” in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Follow “Sheri Daye” and “The Blue Wild” on Facebook and Instagram.

For more Sheri Daye, go to

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5/16/17 11:52 AM

FLORIDA

Permit and Grouper Make June Magnificent in Martin Co.

I

t’s funny to think a tiny crab no bigger than a silver dollar is a viable live bait option in the vastly huge Atlantic Ocean. But when fishing around Martin County during the month of June, it pays to stop by a local tackle shop on the way to a boat ramp and pick up a peck of live crabs.

That’s what Off the Chain sportfishing’s Capt.

Scott Fawcett does. As he prepares to meet clients at his boat at Sailfish Marina on the Manatee Pocket, he’ll pick up a dozen or more crabs to toss in his live bait well.

Recently, while fishing with angler Ryan Dayton of West Palm Beach, those crabs were hooked onto a lead-head jig and dropped to the top of a shallow reef just outside St. Lucie Inlet. Fawcett hoped Dayton would hook a cobia, or even a wayward tarpon (crabs work great for them, too), but most of all, a trophy permit.

Permit are one of those big-three targeted catches for the advanced angler. Along with tarpon and bonefish, permit rate as a fantastic fighter on light tackle. They are capable of thrilling speeds, incredible endurance and tackle-testing strength.

The one difference is that in Martin County waters there isn’t the classic Biscayne Bay or Islamorada experience of sight casting a fly to a fish feeding in 18

By Ed Killer

inches of gin clear water. Here, plenty of permit are caught, but with jigs and live crabs on artificial reefs and wrecks, natural reefs, or even along the beaches by anglers casting for much smaller permit cousins, pompano. Oh, and by the way, anglers here can catch giant tarpon and speedy bonefish, too, if that is your goal.

Dayton did hook that permit, and another, too.

They went about 30 pounds apiece.

And surf anglers fishing from Hutchinson Island beaches earlier this year caught permit within casting range of the high-tide mark using artificial lures like Fish Bites or just a tiny clam strip. If there is something a permit likes as much as a live crab, it’s a clam strip.

When the permit start to show up in the fishing reports locally, it means grouper season has opened.

May 1 through Dec. 31, anglers fishing out of Martin County marinas will catch gag grouper and black grouper to 40 pounds, red grouper to 15 pounds and scamp grouper to 12 pounds in 60 to 180 feet of water. Again, the county’s extensive investment in its artificial reef construction program has led to the benefits of great fishing for game fish and sport fish which orient to structure.

Like permit and grouper.

Photo by Capt. Scott Fawcett, Off The Chain Charters • Photo caption: Ryan Dayton, of West Palm Beach, made a trip to Martin County to fish for permit with Capt. Scott Fawcett of Off the Chain Fishing Charters out of Sailfish Marina in Stuart. He used a live crab on a jighead to catch it offshore.

Make reel memories.

Stuart, located in Martin County, is known as the Sailfish Capital of the World. Sitting on the most biodiverse estuary in the Northern Hemisphere, and the northernmost point of the South Florida Reef, Martin County is home to 100 artificial reef systems and over 800 species of fish. Its climate, waterways and natural environment make it a mecca for fishermen and nautical explorers year-round. An array of unique shops, fine restaurants, great golf courses and quiet beaches make a day ashore fun, too. Inshore, offshore, salt water or fresh, head out for an adventure and reel in the memories.

Plan your trip at discovermartin.com

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Cox Earns Bassmaster Classic Berth

A

fter more than a decade of fishing Bassmaster Southern Open events, local Florida angler John Cox finally won his first one.

The event, held on the famed Tennessee River impoundment Lake Chickamauga, was a three-day tournament that was very tough on most of the anglers including Cox. The 31-year-old angler is the reigning FLW Tour Champion and he is on a hot streak. After learning the 2018 Bassmaster Classic would be hosted at South Carolina’s Lake Hartwell, he set his sights on winning an Open event to punch his ticket for a Bassmaster Classic berth.

Cox is known on the bass circuit as one of the best sight-fishing anglers. He used his keen eyesight and knowledge of spawning bass to win on Chickamauga. Cox was one of the few anglers who exclusively sight fished throughout the second Southern Open of the season. It was an effective technique for several of the tournament’s top finishers.

He put himself in contention for the win with a 22-6 limit on Thursday, followed by a 25-7 bag on Friday. His two-day total of 47-13 gave him more than a 3-pound lead heading into Saturday’s action, and his 20-6 limit on Saturday was heavy enough to secure the win.

The Mud Hole Custom Tackle pro, who hails from Debary, Fla., picked up a contingency berth in the 2018 GEICO Bassmaster Clas-

sic presented by DICK’s Sporting Goods with the victory. Fishing all three Southern Opens this season will solidify that berth. He also won more than $8,000 in cash, as well as a Triton 19 TrX and Mercury 200 Pro XS boat/motor package worth $40,000.

“I’ve tried so long to win one of these Opens, it seems like forever,” Cox said. “I started fishing the Opens when I was 19. It’s where I started, really, so this definitely is a special thing for me.

Building my own custom MHX rods is key for my success, because I can build technique-special rods and actions for different conditions.”

Cox won the Lake Hartwell FLW Tour event last season and is excited about his chances in the Bassmaster Classic there. He won the Hartwell event last summer fishing the back of creeks getting his aluminum bass boat in places where most anglers could not go. Although the Classic will be held on Hartwell in the early spring, Cox is pleased to be fishing his first Classic event.

Cox is having a decent start to the FLW Tour season, as well. Fishing in his own backyard on the third event at the Harris Chain of Lakes in Leesburg, Fla., Cox was super excited to fish his home waters.

He led the event for the first three days to finish in third place and enjoy a nice payday. Cox finished in eighth in the recent FLW Event on Arkansas’ Beaver Lake after going out in fourth place on the final day. It was his second top-10 finish on the tour with just two events left this season.

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Don Combs The Angler

By Terry Lacoss

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“T

he sun was just about to set when I noticed a large school of bait that was being pushed up to the surface by game fish deep below,” said legendary Florida blue water angler Don Combs. “The nervous school of baitfish showered the surface of the calm ocean.”

Combs and his fishing party, aboard the St. Augustine-based sportfishing boat Shark Bait, were fishing for sailfish in 300 feet of water. The sailfish bite had been excellent off of Flagler Beach, Fla., which led them to believe sails were likely working that pod of baitfish.

“We trolled right through that nervous school of bait, resulting in a big fish striking a black and blue Flame lure,” remembered Combs.

“We fought that big wahoo for almost a half hour before we were able to bring the hooked fish up close to the transom of my sportfishing boat… I know that wahoo had to have weighed well over 150 pounds!”

Combs knows what a big wahoo looks like. He holds the Northeast Florida Marlin Association’s record for a wahoo that weighed 125 pounds. He and his team had just set out a spread of high-speed lures when that big ’hoo struck.

“Typically the really big wahoo will take a large bait or lure,” Combs said. “In this case we had just begun to troll with a spread of large C&H lures. Minutes later that monster ’hoo struck, and we had it in the boat in less than 15 minutes. I immediately announced on the VHF marine radio that the tournament was over and we had just landed the winning wahoo!”

The Shark Bait team won the Northeast Florida Marlin Association’s annual wahoo tournament, and they also set a club record that stands to this day. Wahoo fishing is so good off northeast Florida that boats often hook up with 10 or more per trip to the ledge, where depths drop sharply from 180 to 1,000 feet of water. Combs and fishing party once hooked 21 wahoo in a single day fishing off St. Augustine.

“One thing that I have learned, though, is that wahoo prefer to strike a lure that is trolled under the surface and is also trolled in a dead-straight line. Some of my favorite lure combination colors for wahoo include blue-white and red-black. Ironically, one of the very first lures I designed is still one of my favorite blue water lures today, the American Express. We have caught some really large wahoo with this popular lure, and during one blue water fishing trip to the Big Ledge, we boated a 67-, 57- and 45-pound bull dolphin with the bluewhite American Express.”

Combs helped pioneer speed trolling for wahoo. He produced some of the world’s best blue water lures while heading up C&H lures, and his high-speed lures include C & H Mr. Big, Wahoo Whacker XL and the American Express. But Comb’s real windfall was putting together Salt Life outdoor apparel.

He and his wife Cynthia captured the first “Super Slam” ever recorded in northeast Florida and in one year caught and released 52 billfish off north Florida.

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Photo by Lori Griffith

Paddleboarders to Cross 50 Miles from Bimini to South Florida for Cystic Fibrosis

M

ore than 30 paddleboarders will cross international waters over Father’s Day weekend to raise funds and awareness for south Florida-based cystic fibrosis (‘CF’) organization, Piper’s Angels. On June 17, the philanthropic fleet will leave Bimini in the Bahamas and travel more than 50 miles non-stop to South Florida. The team, which will be led by Travis Suit, includes Palm Beach restaurateur, Nick Coniglio, and Director of the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority, Raphael Clemente.

Travis will be lead a team of paddleboarders in the name of his daughter, Piper, who was diagnosed at the age of 4 with an aggressive form of CF. Crossing For A Cure is the flagship event for Piper’s Angels, whose mission is to raise funds for cystic fibrosis research, provide support for families living with disease, and to share what they have experienced about the scientifically proven link between CF and the healing powers of the ocean.

“We were devastated when Piper was diagnosed with CF. As a dad, to hear that your child is suffering from a disease with an average life expectancy of about 37-years-old, you really feel the weight of the world,” said Suit. “When we heard about the effects that salt water has on the lungs, we knew we had to get her in the ocean immediately. It doesn’t cure the disease, but she doesn’t suffer nearly as much, and we’re hoping that instilling a lifelong love for the ocean will keep her alive as long as possible. That’s why we started Crossing For A Cure. We want to make sure that everyone who suffers from CF knows that salt water can help, and provide them access to enjoy it.”

According to researchers, the inhaled mist of salt water has a therapeutic effect on the lung problems associated with the disease.

Scientists are optimistic that the therapy will reduce how often patients are ill and will slow the decline of lung function over time, thus extending their lifespan.

Crossing For A Cure participants will check in on Thursday, June 15 before a day of mandatory safety meetings. The team of paddleboarders will be accompanied by support vessels and staff to guide them across the Gulf Stream. The long-distance endurance paddle challenge is estimated to take about 15 hours to complete. Each participant raised a minimum of $1,000. The event is expected to raise over $50,000 for the disease. All proceeds will go to CF research and local families in the CF community.

The team’s target destination is the Dania Beach Pier, 300 N Beach Rd, Dania Beach, Fla. However, due to the weather events that may change the course and final destination of landfall, supporters are encouraged to monitor the Crossing For A Cure Facebook page, which will have real time updates.

For more information about Crossing For A Cure, or to make a donation, visit www.crossingforacure.com, or contact Travis Suit at travis@pipersangels.org or by phone at 561-246-0205.

For more on this event and the people behind it, go to

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By Nick Carter

Flies matched to the bottom color, with lots of movement, are great for bonefish. Drew Chicone’s Coyote Ugly Spawning Shrimp is an excellent fly. Look for Drew’s patterns and flies from other tiers in Ghost Stories, an upcoming volume documenting the history of the Bahamas bonefishing industry.

By Tom Karrow • Photos by Dan Decibel

F

ly anglers are as attracted to their flies as fish are, and in some cases, more attracted than the fish. I have seen many fly boxes packed full of a wide variety of flies, and I too am guilty of trying new patterns when all too often the old standby is the best choice.

I have seen many flies that look very good but don’t catch many fish. I have seen the worst looking flies produce the most fish. In fact, I often find flies that have been used, abused and reduced to all but garbage frequently work the best. It may be they are permeated with fish scents, or that I have confidence in them. Whatever the case is, they work well.

There are a wide variety of flies available for anglers, and selecting from the array can be complicated. There are different colors, sizes and materials. There are weighted flies and unweighted flies.

So, what are the best flies? The simple answer is: it depends.

I don’t feel a wide variety of different fly patterns is necessary.

I do believe one should have different sizes, colors and weights of productive patterns. Whether it is a Crazy Charlie, a Gotcha, Clouser or Simram, an angler needs an assortment to choose from for at least one of these styles. I would rather have a fly box full of only one type of fly, as long as I have different sizes, colors and weights of that fly. Depending on the location, size, color and weight will vary. For much of the Bahamas, where the bonefish are large, larger flies in sizes 4, 2 or even larger, will suffice. You always want some weighted flies for deeper water or high tides. I tie a Gotcha with different sizes of lead eyes and different sizes of bead chain as well as plastic eyes to suit any condition I encounter. It is important to remember, when you don’t have a certain fly, you will surely need that fly… It’s kinda like Murphy’s Law. Over the course of my travels throughout the Bahamas and in the many interviews I have conducted of Bahamian professional

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bonefish guides, I have learned much about flies and fly selection.

On one of my first trips to the Bahamas, I stayed at the North Riding Point Club on Grand Bahama, where I interviewed their head guide Stanley Glinton. Stanley is a great guy and has being a guide for more than 40 years. When I asked him about fly selection, he shared a little about how he selects a fly saying, “The food the fish feed on imitates the bottom. The crab in the grass, look more like greenish, with stripes.... the crab on the sand bar look more like beige. So when you go on the flats, you try to match what you think the feed is on that particular bottom... if it’s beige, or dark green.... you try to match the fly like that.”

The old adage that a guide knows best is absolutely true. These are individuals who are on the water day in and day out. They are constantly testing flies, observing, investigating and putting their knowledge to work, and most importantly they know what has been working. When it comes to fly selection, I always ask the guide’s opinion. If a guide suggests a change, I change my fly without hesitation. People who listen to their guide usually catch more fish.

A final consideration when selecting flies should be in the materials the fly is made from. Some materials have a tendency to move very well in the water, making them more attractive to fish. I prefer natural materials when I tie flies, and my favorite is rabbit hair. It is durable, comes in a wide variety of colors, is easy to use, and has great movement in the water.

For more information about the interviewing and research that I have been working on throughout the Bahamas please visit http:// tomkarrow.wixsite.com/bahamas-guide-tek

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The Heavyweight Experience of Alaska Saltwater Fishing

By Christopher Batin

I

t’s easy to understand why anglers delight in preparing for an Alaska fishing expedition. Some of the thrill is the anticipation, in getting gear and tackle ready, the big reels, 12-ounce and larger jigs, and huge circle hooks that have been honed to hypodermic-grade sharpness. It’s ensuring the cooler is properly marked with your name and address to transport the fillets you’ll be taking home, and most importantly, the arm curls and circuit training you’re doing.

The workouts are necessary, and it’s easy to see why.

Alaska saltwater fishing is not for the weak of arm or back. Halibut get big in Alaska, with fish reaching weights of 400 pounds, and lengths of 9 feet long. Even the 100-pounders you’re most likely to catch can slug it out through 300 feet of pump-and-lift jabs, and rocket back to the bottom to start all over again for round two. There’s no giving up, no taking a breather for more than a few seconds. Once you are engaged, you fight to your limit. Your arm will get numb at times, your hand pulses with fatigue, and your back quivers in spasmodic tension, but the smile frozen on your face says it all.

This is saltwater fishing as good as it gets.

While I enjoy slugging it out with halibut, I also enjoy a dukefest with Alaska’s other saltwater species. Lingcod get to 60-plus pounds, and usually attack the rockfish I’m reeling up. With their sharp rows of teeth and sinister look, these water wolves of the deep are among the tastiest fish to catch, as well as the forage they feed on; the 4- to 20-pound rockfish of various species, which are among the best-tasting fish in the north country.

But many anglers will want to jig for the five species of Pacific salmon: kings to 70 pounds, coho salmon to 20, and 4- to 8-pound pink salmon.

While they might be the smallest of the Pacific salmon, ocean-bright pinks can max out an 8-weight fly rod. Best of all, odd-numbered years see the return of millions of fish, when creeks and rivers burst at the seams with their numbers. In Valdez alone, as many as 11 million salmon have returned in past years. Anglers delight in catching them along the shoreline near the Solomon Gulch hatchery.

There are many places to use as a base camp to start your excursion.

At the end of the Richardson Highway, Tim Bouchard of Valdez Outfitters likes fishing for big halibut on the outer rim of Prince William Sound, where it meets the abysmal Gulf of Alaska and its continental shelf dropoff to 14,000 feet. Worry not, Bouchard fishes hotspots like Montague Island, where the big fish feed in the shallow 60- to 120-foot depths. He guided his client to catch the 2016 Valdez Halibut Derby winner last year with a 270-pound fish.

For a taste of home-cooking mixed with a professional fishing lodge, Petersburg Sportfishing offers prime fishing on the Inside Passage in the seldom-fished waters near Petersburg. Anglers can opt for boat rentals for do-it-yourself fishing or guided saltwater fishing for salmon, halibut,

CANGL_FIL1-FIL4.indd 1

rockfish and lingcod. This family-run business offers not only fishing, but a variety of adventures and tips on enjoying the many fishing and area glacier attractions, as well as prime bear viewing and some fabulous cutthroat and rainbow trout fishing.

Of course, Kodiak Island offers superb deepsea fishing, bordering the Aleutian trench. Huge halibut migrate from waters bordering these dropoffs and into the shallower food-rich shorelines of Kodiak and Afognak islands. While most fish range from 30 to 100 pounds, fish to 300 pounds and heavier have been caught off Kodiak. Fish this size measure 8 feet in length. Kodiak anglers fish shallow water, from 60 to 180 feet. King salmon fishing is among the best in Alaska saltwater and runs best from April through early mid July. The best thing about fishing Kodiak is short travel time. The best hotspots are often accessed in less than an hour, which offers more time for fishing. Also, because of the remote location of the lodge, there is little if any sportfishing competition.

In Prince William Sound, Alaska Wilderness Outfitters offers a floating cabin for do-it-yourselfers who know how to catch salmon, halibut, rockfish and lingcod in nearby waters. Each of the four, fully equipped wannigans includes a full kitchen, crab traps boats and motors and directions on where the fishing is best. They’ll transport you to the cabins from Cordova, to one of several bays protected from big-water weather. They also offered guided options in some of the most salmon-rich waters of south-central Alaska. Co-owner Katie Prijatel said guests clean and pack their catch in coolers. Alaska Wilderness Outfitters flies in daily to pick up the fish and drop off more ice. Then the fish is vacuum packed, boxed and frozen for the trip home.

Chris Batin is editor of The Alaska Angler, and producer of the instructional DVD, “Underwater Secrets of Halibut, Rockfish and Lingcod.”

For more than 40 years, he has run The Alaska Angler Information Service, which is a one-on-one consultation that helps anglers plan their Alaska fishing adventures. Discover more at www.AlaskaAngler.com.

To learn more from Christ Batin, go to

THEANGLER.CO

5/16/17 12:15 PM

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Introducing the 2017

Caribbean Triple Crown Poker Run

P

rep your engines for the biggest nautical event in the Caribbean. The three-run circuit will take place in the most beautiful destinations in the region: the British Virgin Islands, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and St. Maarten. The first run of the series was held May 28 at the Leverick Bay Marina and Resort on the island of Virgin Gorda in the BVI. The next run will be the Stars and Stripes Poker Run on July 2 at Yacht Haven Grande on St. Thomas, USVI. The final run of the series takes place at The Yacht Club at Isle de Sol in St. Maarten on July 29. The winner of The Caribbean Triple Crown Poker Run series will collect $20,000 in cash and prizes and the prestigious IGY Cup. “This will be an unparalleled event that will take place in the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean,” said Nick Willis, founder of the Leverick Bay Poker Run. “We’re excited and so grateful for the support of the boating enthusiasts that participate.”

The Leverick Bay Poker Run started 16 years ago when Willis put together an event with the purpose of attracting tourists to

CANGL_FIL1-FIL4.indd 2

Virgin Gorda. He never imagined the event would grow into what it has today—a national holiday with over 300 participating boats.

The Leverick Bay Poker run was the catalyst for the development of other poker runs. The Caribbean Triple Crown Poker Run unifies the three major poker runs.

“It’s a privilege to be a part of the Caribbean Triple Crown Poker Run,” said Brian Deher, general manager of IGY Marinas’ Yacht Club at Isle de Sol. “With outstanding marinas in two of the three destinations, IGY Marinas is a natural partner for the series.”

Phil Blake, general manager of IGY Marinas’ Yacht Haven Grande in St. Thomas, shared his enthusiasm saying, “We are very excited to be hosting the fourth annual Stars and Stripes Poker Run and to be part of the Caribbean Triple Crown Poker Run series. The Yacht Haven Grande team is looking very forward to being on hand in St. Maarten when the IGY Cup is presented.”

The Caribbean Triple Crown Poker Run organization is an official member of the Florida Power Boating Club & Poker Runs of America. Several member boats will be coming down from Florida to participate.

“It has been an honor working with Nick Willis on developing the BVI Poker Run,” said Javier Lopez Matos, executive director of the Caribbean Triple Crown Poker Run. Launching the Caribbean Triple Crown Poker Run is one of the most exhilarating events in my life. Having the support of people like Stu Jones of the Florida Power Boating Club, IGY Marinas and so many others is beyond gratifying, it is an honor.”

Caribbean Triple Crown Poker Run: • May 28-Leverick Bay Marina and Resort Virgin Gorda, BVI • July 2-Yacht Haven Grande Marina, St. Thomas, USVI • July 29-The Yacht Club at Isle de Sol, St. Maarten The winner of all three events will be presented with the IGY Cup, plus $20,000 in cash and prizes. For more on the event and to register, go to http://caribbeanpokerrun.com.

5/16/17 12:15 PM

CCA Florida STAR Tournament Cranks up for Year Three By: Capt. Mike Anderson

C

CA Florida will launch the third year of its widely successful STAR Tournament.

It starts on Saturday, May 27th and runs through September 4th at sunset, that’s 101 days of fishing. The format is designed to be family friendly and otherwise all-inclusive for all aspects of Florida’s recreational community.

STAR has a very reasonable $65 entry fee for anglers ages 18 and up, which includes a CCA membership. Existing CCA members pay only $35 to enter and kids ages 6 to 17 are free.

In 2017 with the help of the FWC the CCA released over 150 tagged redfish all over the state, catching one could win you a new truck or boat, motor and trailer package. In addition to the tagged redfish division, the format includes an open division, a ladies division, a kayak division, a fly division, guides division and even a trash division where you can win prizes for just picking up trash on our waterways!

This tournament will ultimately help FWC marine biologists better manage our fisheries through meaningful and correct catch data.

The tournament also features a youth division which includes up to $100,000 in scholarship awards for New Tide members.

Additional prizes include boats such as Contenders, Mavericks, Pathfinders, Carolina Skiffs and Sea Hunts all outfitted with Yamaha

motors on a brand new trailer. You can also win a GMC truck to pull your new boat as well.

Tournament boundaries will include State of Florida waters, extending from the Florida/ Alabama border all the way south to the waters of Everglades National Park and around up to the Florida/Georgia line. Let’s make 2017 the year we all get involved and truly make a difference in our fishery.

CCA is the perfect voice for us, but they need our support, the Star Tournament serves as a great way to do that! About four years ago I made the decision to become a CCA life member. I wanted to be sure that my kids and grandkids would enjoy the same fishing rights that I have enjoyed.

These rights are in serious jeopardy and CCA fights these political battles for us every day.

I hope each and every one of you joins CCA and signs up to fish the CCA STAR tournament. It’s a great opportunity to win some great prizes while you’re doing what you’re most likely going to be doing anyway, fishing!

All Your Boating & Fishing needs in "One Stop" Family Owned & Operated Since 1978

Make 2017 the year you and your family chose to get involved and make a difference in our fishery. For more info on how to sign up go to www.CCAFLSTAR.com.

Good luck and see you on the water!

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.

Mon-Fri 8:00am - 5:00pm Saturday 8:00am - 12:00 pm

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5/16/2017 5:27:38 PM

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5/16/2017 5:27:39 PM

Barracuda Bob’s

Clearwater & Dunedin

By: Capt. Joe Londot

Big Gag grouper can also be taken trolling Red snapper will be swarming big plugs near the bottom. Try gold over rocks, reefs, ledges and Bomber Long A’s under a planer or on the wrecks in 60 feet of water or downriggers. This is a great way to scout deeper. Send some chum down in and find your own grouper hot spots! a chum cage to fire up the bite.

I

don’t know about the rest of you, but I think this past spring has shown us the weirdest weather we’ve had in years.

All spring it was super windy with random cold fronts blowing in at irregular intervals. Now that summer is here we should expect more regular weather patterns, much clearer waters and fish that are easier to find and ready to eat.

The tarpon migration is in full swing with nice pods of fish from 100 to 200 pounds cruising the sandbars along Caladesi, Honeymoon and Three Rooker Islands, and rolling the entire length of the Dunedin Causeway early every morning.

Even shore anglers have a great shot at snagging one of these brutes, but remember that heavy spinning gear.

Use a full spool of 30 to 50 pound braided line, six to eight feet of 60 to 80 pound fluorocarbon leader and a 7/0 to 9/0 super sharp hook.

Snook are in full feeding mode on the beaches and in the passes fattening up for their spawn. The snook bite along the Honeymoon Island beaches has been spectacular with fish of 30 to 48 inches getting caught every day. Talk to the crew at Barracuda Bob’s about the best baits to use on any given day.

Redfish are schooling around the mangrove shorelines and oyster bars and can usually be found anywhere you see lots of mullet jumping. Long casts are needed to not spook the fish; your best bait will be a big live shrimp free-lined or with a split shot. Make sure to cast beyond or to either side of where you see the fish working so you don’t shut down the bite.

The other big story around here is the shark bite. Starting this month and all through the summer, blacktips, bonnetheads, bulls, hammerheads and plenty of other species will be prowling along the

Dunedin Causeway and off the beaches. Use stout spinning gear and heavy wire leader to prevent bite offs; soak big chunks of cut bonito, mullet or ladyfish on the bottom.

I also recommend deploying a chum bag up current from your baits to get the sharks sniffing around.

Remember that our sharks range in size from two to ten feet long, and like a box of chocolates, you never know exactly what you’re going to get!

June 1st marks the beginning of gag grouper season, and every ledge rock, reef and wreck are covered with them. They’re so thick you can almost walk across them.

Red snappers are also everywhere; you’ll want plenty of big live pinfish for the gags and somewhat smaller ones for the snappers. The snapper regulations are really tricky, so make sure you understand them well.

Before heading out stop into Barracuda Bob’s for the best live, frozen and artificial baits, rods and reels and terminal tackle. More importantly, Bob’s crew is extremely knowledgeable about bait, rigs and regulations, and can tell you where the bite is hot on any given day.

You can always rely on the friendly crew at Barracuda Bob’s to help you become a better and more productive angler!

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 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM | JUNE 2017 | TAMPA 3

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5/16/2017 5:27:40 PM

By: Capt. Joel Gant

Hernando County Grouper Season

F

inally what we’ve all been waiting for, the gag grouper season is open.

The season runs from June 1st to December 31st and you are allowed to keep two per person in state and federal waters.

Remember the size limit is 24 inches to the tail.

There are many different ways to catch these hard fighting bruisers. Bottom fishing is the most popular from 20 to 60 feet, find your spot and drop anchor.

The gear I use is a heavy Star Rod with a Shamino Toruim reel spooled with 50 to 80 pound mono line with about a 24 inch leader and a 7/0 circle hook (you must use a circle hook when reef fishing, its the law).

A quick tip on circle hooks, don’t set the hook or you will more than likely lose the fish, just reel and the fish will be hooked.

You’re going to need a fairly strong setup because when they first hit, they will try to dig and hang you up on the nearest rock, you will need to get them up off

the bottom as quick as you can.

We usually tighten the drag as tight as we can in order to not to let fish take any line. As for bait, you can use live pinfish, small grunts, sand perch, pigfish or any other lively bait.

Frozen baits like threadfins, sardines and mullet will also work great. I like to use fresh cut baits like grunts, bluefish, mullet or ladyfish, remember that big baits will catch big fish.

Depending on the water clarity and temperature, trolling can produce big groupers as well.

Keep an eye out for cobia, if you see one come by, have a rig already set up so you can quickly cast to them. Cobia seem to be a curious fish, they will swim by or come up from structure.

They usually are not too picky about what they eat. Keep your offerings moving as they like to chase and attack their prey.

These fish are solid fighters all the way to and into the boat.

I recommend working the fish till you tire it out before bringing

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it onboard. If your not sure if it’s legal (33 inches to the fork) net it rather than gaffing.

On a recent charter, we were bottom fishing and to my surprise we hooked, fought and landed what I’ve guessed to be about a 300 pound goliath grouper. This is my biggest fish to date; you never know what you might catch here off Hernando Beach.

Get out there on the water and make some memories with friends and family!

I’m always looking for reports and pictures. For more information or questions, you can email me or stop by my website and become a “FISHHEAD”.

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

5000 Calienta St., Hernando Beach, FL 352-610-9999 www.BluePelicanMarina.com

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5/16/2017 5:27:41 PM

By: Capt. Jim Kalvin

E

very county in Florida is impacted by the need for manatee zones when it comes to the regulation of boats.

All saltwater habitats are monitored and have been the subject of regulatory scrutiny for decades. Speed zones are installed at the behest of conservation groups ranging from Jacksonville to the Florida Keys, and on up the west coast to Pensacola.

Freshwater environments that are connected to saltwater via rivers, creeks and inlets are no different. Vast and comprehensive speed zones have been placed that have curtailed the traditional use of said waterways in many areas.

I content that no one really knows if these areas work or not. Zone upon zone has been installed, yet there is no way to see if they are working.

Some people say that they work because boats are going slower. However, boaters know that when they’re going slower,

they are settled deeper in the water – meaning that their propellers are two to three feet farther below the surface.

Does this exacerbate interactions with boats and manatees? It would seem that this is a question that any manatee advocate would want to know the answer to. Unfortunately this question seems to have gone unanswered.

Manatees have been venturing into new areas over the decades, and many claim that this is a good thing. But one has to ask why they are able to expand their range; I argue that it is because of thermal pollution.

Thermal pollution is the introduction of artificially warm water being dumped into a natural waterway. This happens with power plants, sewerage outfalls, water treatment plants and highway and street storm drains. A little known (or little adhered-to) fact is that thermal

outflows were declared pollution by the Clean Water Act of 1974.

Thermal pollution impacts more than manatees however, it can impact our fish nurseries, mollusks, flats fish, seagrasses and every animal that calls an estuary home. Once illegal, it is now the lynch-pin of the single-species management plan that is pursued by state and federal regulators, and the paid advocate contingent of the West Indian Manatee.

What is this doing to our estuaries – as more and more giant herbivores are crammed into these headwaters, bays and inlets? Good question, boaters have been asking about this since the 70’s.

Regulators and the advocate contingent have scoffed at the question for many years. I believe that the answer would be contrary to their mission and their income stream.

With the semiannual manatee forum coming up,

we can hopefully begin to get some honest answers to a very real problem. The current and ongoing one way management plan is not good for the manatees, or our environment.

Join Standing Watch and help us help you preserve your rights of access to Florida’s aquatic resources. Go to standingwatch.net or send membership info to P.O. Box 990399 Naples, Florida, 34116. Like and follow our Facebook page as we continue to monitor the 2017 Legislative session.

Emails can go to james.kalvin61@gmail.com

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5/16/2017 5:27:44 PM

By: Ron Schelfo

Freshwater Fishing Report Lake Alfred, Auburndale, Winter Haven Areas

H

ot summer days will soon be upon us, the time to fish for blue gills and shell crackers is right now!

You’ll find lots of blue gill hiding in the lily pads this time of year. The best baits for these fish are live crickets.

Reports of big fish and anglers catching their limits are coming in from Lakes Haines, Rochelle, Alfred, Echo and Swoope here in Lake Alfred.

If you’re going after shell crackers, use red worms and fish the bottom. Try to find drop offs and pockets and you’ll find success.

Bass fishing in the south Winter Haven chain as well as the lakes listed above is also very productive. We are seeing five to eight pound at our Thursday night tournaments.

Area anglers are highly recommending the Bass Assassin Boss Shiner swimbaits in assorted colors. Use them with a weighted swimbait hook for best results.

Our other best bait recommendations are the Booyah lipless crankbaits in royalty color, Booyah frogs, or a Heddon Poppin Image. Try one of these once and you’ll be hooked. Whatever your preference, bass fishing will be at its best over the next few months, so get out and enjoy it!

Polk County is home to 554 beautiful lakes and offers some of the best fishing in Florida. The best time to go fishing is whenever you can go.

We recently helped to sponsor a kids fishing derby put on by Polk County

Parks and Recreation. This free event was well attended by 250 local children and their parents.

Pictured is this year’s winner, little 4- year-old Owen Rice, proudly displaying his three pound eleven ounce bass caught on a live shiner his father purchased from us that morning. Owen received a rod/reel combo from Ron’s Tackle Box. Our 19th season of Ron’s Tackle Box weekly bass tournaments has now begun. Weekly registration is $30.00 per boat for a one or two man team. The tournaments run from 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. every Thursday through the end of October.

Prizes are awarded for the biggest bass as well as 1st, 2nd and 3rd place categories. The location each week is not revealed until Thursday mornings and is announced in Del Milligan’s column in “The Ledger” and on our website.

Please like and follow us on Facebook, or you can call Ron at (863) 956-4990.

These events are all around great fun, come out and join us.

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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5/16/2017 5:27:45 PM

Shoreline Report

By: Paul Presson

Edgewater Drive, Clearwater, FL Once at the water, a large, mostly hard bottom flats area awaits you. From the deep water of the channel under the bridge to the remains of old, torn down docks, there is a large variety of different fish hide outs to explore.

Use satellite Janet Jordan using Shimano Teramar Paul Presson using KastKing Phantom Rod applications to find deeper water, redfish medium rod, Penn Conflict 3000, Kastking medium, Penn Conflict 2500, Kastking Fortis 20 pound braid, 30 pound Kastking Fortis 10 pound braid, 20 pound Kastking and snook flourish in these areas. Trout Fluorokote leader, quarter ounce Mission jig Fluorokote leader, eighth of an ounce can be found by and Gulp shrimp. (trout) Mission jig and Zman Electric Chicken fishing the grassy PaddlerZ areas, throw artificials dgewater Drive or Alternate 19 from either side. When the water or live baits to the outskirts of the is a road located in northern is moving, snook and sheepshead numerous potholes located on Clearwater, just south of Dunedin; can be caught from these strategic these flats. During high tide, target this area holds many different vantage points. Fishing from above the mangroves that skirt the entire species of fish. The many bait and the banks of Edgewater is also fishing area.

Edgewater Drive may not be for tackle shops located in Dunedin are possible during high tides. the closest and fastest way to stock Wade anglers need to be aware everyone, the parking is less than up on all you need for a day of great that the first few steps to the water ideal - with a limited number of fishing. can be tricky. Large rocks and spots getting there early is the only There is a small bridge near rubble make this terrain difficult to way to ensure a good day of fishing.

If seclusion and solitude are your Sunset Point Road that can be fished reach the water.

thing, then this is not your place; runners, bikers, and the sound of traffic are impossible to get away from.

Edgewater can provide some of the best fishing in the area. Just remember to watch your footing and enjoy a great day of fishing!

Paul Presson, outdoor writer and published cartoonist. He has fished the coastlines of Tampa Bay for 28 years, land based, wade, kayak and by flats boat. If he is not writing, he is out on the water!

E

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5/16/2017 5:27:46 PM

RECIPE OF THE MONTH:

MUSSELS OVER PESTO PASTA Pesto Recipe: • You will need a food processor for this recipe.

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed (can sub half the basil leaves with baby spinach) • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan-Reggiano cheese (about 2 ounces) • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil • 1/3 cup pine nuts (can sub chopped walnuts) • 3 garlic cloves, minced (about 3 teaspoons) • Salt and pepper to taste Instructions:

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his recipe is very easy. If you do not wish to make the pesto from scratch you can buy it already made in the store. The picture shows one that I like to use.

Ingredients: • 1 box of angel hair pasta • 2 lbs. of mussels fresh or frozen • Crab or shrimp boil package • Pesto sauce

• Boil water in a large pot add pasta.

• Boil water in a large pot add crab boil.

• Add mussels to crab boil pot boil for 3 or 4 minutes. The longer you boil the easier they come out of shell. My son likes them cooked very done so I cook them about 7 minutes.

• Remove pasta, add pesto and mix together so the pesto coats all the pasta.

• Carefully remove mussels they are hot!

• Place over pasta.

• If your entertaining you can put a fresh basil leaf on the plate for decoration.

If you have any questions, comments or would like to share a recipe of your own, contact Michelle at cnmoasis@gmail.com

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Learning About Fishing: Light Tackle Hook-Sets

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very angler has watched in amazement as bass professionals set the hook, it’s a matter of experience that’s taught them how hard to pull and when the line reaches its maximum stretch potential.

Many saltwater anglers have switched to braided lines from mono, and afterwards seldom if ever return to monofilament.

So what does this have to do with a hookset? Primarily because there’s no stretch or

By: Woody Gore

memory with braid, it requires less effort for a hook set. Saltwater anglers targeting snook, redfish, trout and other inshore species also favor other characteristics of braid like casting distance, resistance to the sun’s ultraviolet rays and less water drag.

How hard should you pull when setting a hook depends on a few issues, more than just brute strength. Some of these factors include the species on the line, fishing line type, rod and reel combinations, depth of water, type of bait and most important the hook are determining factors.

Conventional J-hooks are a mainstay, when used properly there is an excellent hook-up percentage, however, you must pay attention to what’s going on with your bait so you can quickly detect strikes. If you don’t it’s inevitable the fish is going to swallow the bait and become hooked in the throat or worse, this usually results in death for the fish.

You never know what’s on the other end of your line when setting the hook. Suppose it’s that world class trophy you’ve been waiting for all your life, if you have your drag too tight you’ll break it off.

Learn good hook setting techniques, then during those critical moments after a fish grabs

your bait or the bobber goes under; think to yourself about the force required. Learning to use more controlled pressure, keeping the fishing rod bent and guiding the direction the fish is travelling should help get more fish to the boat. Remember, once the fish is hooked you’re in control not the fish.

The most important part of boating any fish is making sure you release it with as little damage as possible. Practice responsible catch and release.

“Give Me a Call & Let’s Go Fishing” – 813-4773814 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.

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5/16/2017 5:27:48 PM

New Product Spotlight: The Fishing Paddle By: Will Korte

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irginia based Shiflett Paddle Company. has developed an innovative new paddle that kayakers and paddle boarders will love.

The fishing paddle is exactly what it sounds like; it’s a fishing rod and reel attached to a paddle.

An angler can paddle and then in one motion stop and use the rod attachment to cast, or the angler can easily troll lures while paddling.

Paddles range in length from over five feet to over seven feet, and weigh anywhere from a pound and a half to two pounds.

The paddles come equipped with 1000 size spinning reels but can be upgraded to 4000 size at the consumer’s request. Every paddle is completely buoyant and is available in six colors.

While the Shiflett Paddle Co.

is based out of Virginia, you can get your fishing paddle at Jack’s Kayaks right in Largo. You can give Jack’s Kayaks a call at (727) 452-4684 or stop in and visit, they’re located at 1764 Missouri Ave N, Largo, FL 33770. For more information on the fishing paddle visit www.fishingpaddle. com; check out this new product, it might just become your new favorite piece of equipment!

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Will Korte is the editor of the Tampa Bay edition of “Coastal Angler” and is a member of the Florida Outdoor Writers Association.

To contact Will, email tbt0813@ yahoo.com. Also check out Will’s blog 727Angler.com

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www.accentmarine.com 12 TAMPA | JUNE 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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5/16/2017 5:27:49 PM

South Shore Tampa Bay Kids and Sharks By: Capt. Joel Brandenburg

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his time of the year black tips are in their post spawning mode and we catch them daily.

Black tips are great fighters and are very prevalent in Tampa Bay. You’re legally allowed to keep two per day per boat, in many people’s opinion they taste better than grouper.

This time of year, we hold our summer kids fishing camp called Ana Banana Kids Fishing. We have up to 24 kids per week ages 5-15 years old and almost all of the kids will choose to catch a shark over any other fish.

Both children and adults are intrigued by sharks; that’s why Shark Week has turned into shark month on TV. Tampa Bay is the shark capital of the world; we have the largest population and variety in the world. Tampa Bay is also one of the largest black tip shark breading grounds in the world.

On June 10th at Hooks at Little Harbor Resort in Ruskin we will hold a black tip shark tournament called Hooks King of the Bay Black Tip Shark Tournament. It will benefit The National Pediatric Cancer Foundation.

In 2005 I got a call from renowned Captain Norm Isaacs, TV host of The Extreme Billfish Show and Hawaiian resort and marina owner. Norm called to tell me that he and his son Captain Darrin Isaacs had started a kid’s summer fishing camp called The Professional Fishing Academy, at the IMG Academy in Sarasota.

Norm asked me to be the inshore instructor.

Without hesitation, I accepted his offer.

My experience at IMG left a lasting impression on me and gave a desire to teach kids the art and technique of ethical and responsible fishing. I’ve personally seen the impact that fishing can have on a child.

My son Joseph became my

first mate at age five. He was seven years old when I started with IMG and participated in much of the fishing academy activities.

Joseph is now 18 years old and is the youngest Master Captain in Tampa Bay and he plans to charter his way through college. Ana and I are proud parents and we attribute much of Joseph’s success and happiness to fishing.

One of my former IMG students, Noah Bressman is now a marine biologist at Cornell University. By the end of his second summer at IMG, 12- year old Noah could give the scientific name for almost any fish.

One day Noah and I fought a shark for three hours as it pulled us for miles, Noah never gave up!

In addition to providing a great adventure and inspiring strong respect for the environment, fishing teaches tenacity and builds character.

This is our third year of Ana Banana Kids Fishing Camp, we continue to be inspired by the enthusiasm and promise of young anglers like Joseph and Noah.

We’re dedicated to giving your child an experience that rivals and exceeds the training once offered at IMG Professional Fishing Academy.

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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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM | JUNE 2017 | TAMPA 13

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5/16/2017 5:27:50 PM

Lane Snapper Frenzy

By: Capt. Anthony Corcella

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f you’re looking to catch something a little different in the Tampa Bay, then consider targeting lane snapper, currently the bay is loaded with lane snappers at the St. Pete Bay Reef and other artificial reefs near shore.

We’ve caught some nice ones on live shrimp and cut bait. The tackle that I use is a seven foot Star rod medium action with a Penn SSV 3500 with 15 pound braid. I like to use a half to three quarter ounce knocker rig depending on the current, with a 20 pound fluorocarbon leader and a 2/0 Owner hook.

Fish finder rigs with a two to three foot leader also work great using the same size tackle. These setups also work for mangrove snapper, hogfish and Key West grunts.

While you’re fishing the bay reefs, throw a live threadfin out the back of the boat with the drag semi loose on the reel. You may just hook into a tarpon.

I like to use seven foot six inch medium heavy action Star Rods with a Penn SSV 7500 reel and 50 pound braid with a 60-80 pound

Live & Frozen Bait

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fluorocarbon leader and a 6/0 -7/0 Owner circle hook. All this tackle can be purchased at Mitch’s Bait and Tackle in St. Pete off of 4th street and 62nd avenue north. Put these tips to use and you’ll set yourself up for some great summer time fishing!

What makes our charter service unique is that we cater to disabled veterans and wheel chair bound clients! Our boat is able to accommodate wheelchairs and is ADA compliant. IF YOU’RE A DISABLED VETERAN YOUR TRIP IS FREE!!! This is our way we give back to our veterans.

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14 TAMPA | JUNE 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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Kids Summer Saltwater Fishing School June 10 & 11th or July 8 & 9th Call Capt. Sergio Atanes at (813) 973-7132 for more information

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he future of fishing is in the hands of the younger generations. Just as I went on my first fishing trip at the age of four and got hooked, I want every kid to experience the thrill of catching fish and enjoy this great outdoor hobby. Any child can become an angler, maybe someday a professional angler, but who knows unless he or she has a chance at it.

Classes are limited to 25 future Jr. Anglers plus parent or guardian.

Day 1: Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Saturday class one is held inside, hands on basics of fishing are taught.

This includes everything from knot tying to tackle selection. Our staff of four professional full time captains will then cover their techniques on how to catch snook, redfish, speckled trout, tarpon and Spanish mackerel.

Day 2: Sunday 10 a.m. to Noon Sunday we meet at Picnic Island Fishing Pier for hands on fishing and how to throw a bait net. We will

supply the nets, sooner or later we will need to catch our own bait so here is a great start. There will also be a how to fish with artificial baits segment. Just bring your favorite fishing rod, if you don’t own one we will have some to use.

Saturday class to be held at: Southeastern Tackle Liquidators 2907 N. Florida Ave. Tampa, FL 33602

The Fisherman’s Candy Store

Sunday class to be held at: Picnic Island Fishing Pier

Over 5,000 sq. ft. of Fishing Tackle and Supplies

Cost includes lunch on Saturday and Jr. Angler fishing goodie pail with fishing tackle from sponsors.

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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM | JUNE 2017 | TAMPA 15

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5/16/2017 5:27:51 PM

Return of the Silver King

The editor with a nice Islamorada tarpon.

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zona- Tarpon have returned to local waters for the summer and provide anglers with an almost unparalleled challenge among inshore, saltwater gamefish.

Tarpon will be found around area bridges and passes as well as along area beaches. They’ll also be around deeper flats and channel edges.

The many areas tarpon will be found this time of year makes them easily accessible for boat and

shore bound anglers alike. However, tactics vary based on where the fish are found.

Tarpon will eat flies, mullet, pinfish, greenbacks, crabs, jigs and on. They are very versatile fish; I have even caught tarpon on cut baits fished on the bottom.

Before pursuing tarpon there are certain risks and factors that must be considered. Knowing how to properly handle the fish, using proper gear, knowing what to do in the event of a shark attacking the fish and the individual level of experience/ having a good partner if fishing by boat are all vital.

Because tarpon fight so hard and perform many acrobatic jumps there are times when your reel gets dumped very quickly. If you’re fishing from a boat, a partner is necessary to chase the fish down to help regain line and navigate through bridge pilings while the other fights the fish.

This time of year I notice an uptick in the amount of very large sharks close to shore – the biggest sharks, the hammerhead and bull

By: Will Korte

and occasionally even the tiger are here following tarpon schools. While it’s true that we have these species here year round, I tend to see them more and hear about people having more interactions with them during tarpon season.

If you are fighting a tarpon and you have a shark on the fish, open William Ward with an Islamorada tarpon. the bail and let the tarpon get away from Tarpon are sometimes called the its pursuer. There are times where you may even have to break the fish perfect gamefish. Adding tarpon to an angler’s list of summer targets off.

When and if a large tarpon is can make the summer or a lifetime. landed, do not bring it into a boat Will Korte is the editor of the or onto shore, it puts unnecessary Tampa Bay edition of “Coastal stress on the fish. Never touch Angler” and is a member of the gills of a tarpon it will cause the Florida Outdoor Writers breathing problems for the fish.

Association. To contact Will, email Bring the fish alongside of the tbt0813@yahoo.com. Also check out boat, revive it and release it. If you’re Will’s blog 727Angler.com going to handle them, grab their lower jaw and hold on.

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16 TAMPA | JUNE 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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5/16/2017 5:27:59 PM

FINANCING AS LOW AS

3.99%

Always wear a personal flotation device while boating and read your owner's manual. All Honda outboards meet EPA and CARB emission levels.

APR financing available on all new Honda outboard engines through American Honda Finance Corporation upon approved credit. 3.99% APR financing for 24 – 48 months, available to customers who qualify for AHFC credit tier 1. Example for new Honda outboard engines: 3.99% APR for 36 months financing at $29.52 a month for every $1,000 financed. 4.99% APR for 60 months financing at $18.87 a month for every $1,000 financed. 4.99% APR for 84 months financing at $14.13 a month for Offer good on any new and unregistered Honda outboard engine, with a minimum amount financed of $1,000 and a minimum monthly payment of $100. Check with participating dealers for complete details. Dealers set actual every $1,000 financed. O sales prices. For well-qualified buyers, not all buyers may qualify. Higher rates apply for different terms and/or buyers with lower credit rating. Lower rates may also be available. Offer valid through 04/03/17, on new and unregistered Honda outboard engines (2hp – 250hp) and only on approved credit by Honda Financial Services through participating dealers. Honda Financial Services' standard credit criteria apply.

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Capt. Sergio’s Corner

By: Capt. Sergio Atanes

Summer Pompano

Allen Miller

Rudy Rodriguez

ompano are often overlooked, but they shouldn’t be, they’re fun to catch, fight hard and are great to eat.

Pompano are in the jack family and first cousins to permit. Juvenile permit and pompano school together in many areas and are often difficult to tell apart.

Since the net ban, pompano populations have increased tenfold giving local anglers a chance to catch fish. Pompano are found in the warm waters of Tampa Bay and shorelines of the gulf beaches.

In the last few years I’ve noticed warmer water temperatures and have seen an increase in pompano

populations on the flats and around the bridges. Bridge fishermen can catch their share of pompano by using live shrimp.

Pompano fishing is very time consuming and lots of work, they can be caught from the shore around bridge pilings and working the grass flats. An old trick to finding them with a boat is to run on plane through the flats and watch for them skipping in your wake. Once you see them skip, work the area with jigs or live shrimp while drifting the flats.

My favorite tackle for pompano is 10 to 15-pound braided line on a medium spinning reel on a seven foot fast action spinning rod. I’ve found

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that using 20-pound fluorocarbon leader works best with a #2 J hook and a fiddler crab or shrimp. When fishing the beaches sand fleas are also good bait.

Live baits fished on the bottom with a small split shot that drags along the bottom and stirs up some sand will draw the attention of pompano. My favorite is using jigs; they give me the ability to cover a larger area. Bounce the jig off the bottom so that when it falls a puff of sand pops up making it look like a crab trying to bury itself.

Some of the best jigs I have found are quarter and three eighths of an ounce. Pompano jigs are shaped like a banana and come in pink, white or yellow, another good option is feathered jigs with chrome heads

and white, red and silver feathers.

If you’re using a jig from a bridge, drop it along the pilings and bounce it off the bottom.

Find the area with the best current flow for best results, tipping the jig with cut fresh shrimp will help increase your strikes. When fishing around bridges or docks, increase your leader size to 30-pound test to avoid break offs.

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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5/16/2017 5:28:00 PM

Fly Report

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By: Capt. Gregg McKee

une in southwest Florida is everyone’s favorite month for tarpon fishing.

The big migratory schools, which started showing up in early April are still here but their numbers are really picking up as they move north from the Keys. The little resident fish, and by “little” I mean any tarpon under 30 pounds, are also out of their hiding spots and a regular sight on the inshore flats and residential canals all along the coast.

If you’re a fly angler, these are the ultimate

saltwater gamefish no matter what their size. You can target them with an easy casting 8-weight for the juveniles and up to a beefy 12-weight for the full grown ones.

Tarpon will eat a variety of relatively simple patterns, and with the right leader you can have them whipped in a lot less time than most folks realize. So let’s talk about that leader system for both juvenile and adult fish.

When I first started guiding two decades ago, back in the monofilament era, tarpon leaders were remarkably complex creations of several 12 to 80 pound test line segments held together by a mix of Bimini Twists, Homer Rhode loops, and Huffnagal knots. I would start tying these in December and each leader usually took a quarter of Monday Night Football to construct.

Fluorocarbon, which is effortless to keep straight compared to mono, changed everything.

Tarpon leaders can now be tied while motoring away from the ramp; I definitely don’t miss those

Your Upper Tampa Bay ONE! STOP! SHOP!

mind-numbing leader building sessions at all.

For small tarpon I use Seaguar red label fluorocarbon to create a 10 foot leader I call a “43-2-1.” That means four feet of 40 pound, three feet of 30 pound, two feet of 20 pound, (which is the class tippet) and just over a foot of 40 pound for a shock tippet. If you think you’ll encounter larger fish, then bump that last part up to 60 pound.

All these lengths are joined together by double surgeon’s knots which are effortless and hold at nearly 100 percent of the line’s strength. The fly is attached to the shock tippet with a perfection loop, which I also use for all my spinning lures.

If you tie your knots properly and test them afterwards, they won’t let you down. These leaders are more than strong enough to beat a three foot tarpon into submission in less than five minutes on an 8-weight.

If you hook up with a 100 pounder on a 12-weight, you should have it boatside in no more than half an hour. Homemade leaders are simple, effective and very inexpensive compared to prepackaged ones which can cost up to $10 each.

Give it a try!

Capt. Gregg McKee Wildfly Charters www.wildflycharters.com

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St. Pete Report

By: Capt. Christopher Taylor

Gone Shootin’

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une is well known for its pleasant mornings and warm afternoons.

Generally speaking this time of year, much of the usual boat traffic from anglers and guides has shifted from their favorite snook and redfish spots to chasing the tarpon around the beaches and larger passes. This will allow for less pressure on the water and more fish willing to chew on baits.

During the month of June I have found the tide

changes produced larger fish.

Also the mornings and evenings will be more productive as well because the water temperature will be lower.

A few go to places to look for snook and redfish this month are Riviera Bay, Bayou Grande, Pinellas Point and Fort Desoto, including the area surrounding Tarpon Key. On rising and higher tides snook and redfish will be abundant on and around mangrove points, oyster bars and

the occasional sandbar.

When fishing these areas I recommend free lining live or cut scaled sardines. The addition of a few split shots may be necessary to keep baits in the specific location during stronger tides.

The phrase match the hatch is a tried and true method used to select the proper bait for fishing any given area. The waterways of Saint Petersburg are filled with scaled sardines, also known as greenbacks or white bait.

These little silver bullets are candy for snook and redfish as well as trout. Scaled sardines can be caught by throwing a cast net or buying at a few small bait shops.

Another species of fish to keep an eye out for this month are Spanish mackerel. Spanish mackerel are a huge summertime favorite and can be found wherever baitfish congregate in high numbers.

A favorite spot of mine and many anglers is the main span of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

Whether you’re fishing from a boat or the pier located directly next to the bridge, you can successfully target these fish using a silver spoon with some wire leader and fast retrieve or a free lined sardine are.

Captain Christopher Taylor Florida Reels Fishing Charters www.floridareelsfishingcharters.com (813) 220-6135

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5/16/2017 5:28:03 PM

Fishing with Ringling

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hen fishing forums were just hitting their stride, I was trolling Capmels paddlefishing and Florida Sportsman forums. This was a great way to meet new anglers, learn and catch rides with guys with boats. I went out with people all the time and met many characters; this is the story of one man.

One day, I received a message from a man in the Gibsonton area and he invited me out on his boat.

A chance to fish Cockroach Bay I was in!

I can’t remember his name to save my life, but he wanted me to meet at the ramp at 4 a.m. I thought that was strangely early and I don’t even like parking my car there during daylight hours!

When we met that morning it was dark, I couldn’t see many of his facial features but I could see the boat. It was an old, beat up Jon boat that didn’t look seaworthy.

This was going to be an adventure. He barked at me to get

my gear and get it on board. I’m thinking “what’s the hurry, the sun isn’t coming out for hours?”

We put our stuff in this mighty vessel, and launched.

We worked our way through the mangroves staying on welltraveled waterways. I noticed, all he had was one rod, one reel and a small tackle box. He used an old lantern to light our way.

We had been on the water for about 45 minutes and he told me we were taking his path. It looked like solid mangroves to me, but he knew where he was going.

Great, disappearing through the mangroves with a somewhat strange guy, a boat that could sink at any time, and the no see ums absolutely killing me.

We weren’t even paddling at this point; we were pulling ourselves through the jungle. This process went on for over an hour.

Sweat pouring, bit to hell and thinking this man was crazy.

Finally, a huge clearing in the

By: Paul Presson

mangroves appeared, I was ready to fish. My new “buddy” took the time out to correct my knot tying and told me how to rig, all by the light of a lantern.

The sun began to rise and the water was glass. He told me that this is favorite place to catch juvenile tarpon and snook. I was impressed and smiling from ear to ear.

On my second cast, I got a hit that yanked my arms and made the reel scream. There was a tremendous jump; it was my first snook, 35 inches long.

I looked over for acknowledgment and he had something huge on, a nice sized tarpon. At least now, we had a common bond of neither of us being skunked.

The man started to talk; he lived in Gibsonton and was the head elephant trainer for Ringling Brothers Circus. I was in heaven, out fishing with a Carnie.

I don’t remember saying that

much that day; I was too busy listening to a great storyteller tell his tales. We fished and talked all day in that little saltwater pond.

On our way back, the man asked me politely to not tell anyone about his spot. I laughed, I wouldn’t tell, I couldn’t find it anyway. We packed up, shook hands and we never saw each other again.

If you have a spot on your boat, ask someone to join. If you’re going kayaking, wade, or beach fishing ask someone to go. How cool is it that your next adventure could be on an old, beat up Jon boat.

Paul Presson, outdoor writer and published cartoonist. He has fished the coastlines of Tampa Bay for 28 years, land based, wade, kayak and by flats boat. If he is not writing, he is out on the water!

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Tales from the Tupperware Navy By: Bruce Butler

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elcome back yak fans. Well, June is here and my annual cobia hunt has not been going as I hoped. Three trips and counting, and I have yet to hook into one—but, I shall persevere. Patience is a virtue, but I’m ready to try a grenade--just kidding. To try a grenade, I’d have to actually see one! On my last foray out the bite was a little slow and I ran into one of my readers on the water in Aripika. This always makes me feel good to know that I am appreciated for something other than how well my articles cover the bottom of a bird cage (though I’m told I do this very well). Basking in the glow of appreciation, we paddled together and I tried to share a little of the terrain and areas to hit around Aripika. His friend was also on the water, and was rightfully proud of hooking into a snook earlier in the day. Since the bite was slow, I decided to show him a couple of my snook spots--so I blind folded him. No, wait, I think I said “tie on a Zara spook and follow me.” So, we hit a couple of my snook spots.

He wasn’t used to lures, but with a little practice he’ll do fine. As for me, I hooked into three snook.

But, like a novice pilot, I was great on takeoff but lousy on landing. I never got one to the boat! DRAT. A bit later, I saw him paddling back and forth, so I asked what was going on. He had lost his $70 sun glasses and, though he saw them at first, the tide had carried him away. Even though I helped look, those glasses were never to be seen again. This reminded me of a similar situation I was in a while back, so I decided to share it with you again!

Learning from our (pronounced “my”) mistakes, I was fishing one of my favorite trout holes, anchored in about 4 feet of water, when I decided it was time to shift over a little and went to pull in my anchor which, of course, was stuck fast. So, in this situation, rule #1 is let out more line and back paddle. About 90% of the time, this will free you up. Well, you guessed it--I made the 10%, but I was not stopped dead in my tracks. “OK”, I thought, “time for Plan B.” Let out more line, grab it and pull it loose from above. Here the story begins.

As I got the line snagged, still stuck, I had this little problem. I should

explain that since childhood, I have suffered from an affliction of NBA-No Butt At All. To compensate for this debilitating condition, I have a fancy padded seat, a foam donut and seat cushion. This puts my posterior at ease, but I was about 2” above the normal center of gravity of the boat. So, as I snagged the line, the tide twisted me and yes, for the first time in 5 years, I almost flipped the yak. And, of course, being an experienced kayaker, I did not need to have my cell phone or my keyless entry in a dry bag. As I turned and caught the boat before it completely flipped, I watched the assortment of loose stuff floating away. My cell was buzzing like a razor in my pocket and, as I did inventory, I saw that I was missing two rods from the boat, as well as, pliers, etc. So, with over $600 worth of gear on the bottom and my stuff floating away, herein lies the lesson: I immediately snagged the anchor line, took off my vest and retrieved the floaters.

The important point here is, if this ever happens to you, drop the anchor or stake immediately. If you drift a couple of yards, your stuff is gone! As it was, I threw the gear back in the boat, took off my shoes and jumped in. Then, I let my toes feel around the mucky bottom and walked the boat in a circle until I hit pay dirt. Once I found the scene of the crime, I resurrected both my new Fenwick rods and even found my pliers.

But, the real interesting point of the story is what I was snagged on.

Some idiot had dumped a tire in the middle of the bay, so when I back paddled, my anchor slid around inside and would not come loose. To this person I wish, like the old song goes, may the bird of paradise fly up your nose, may an elephant caress you with his toes, etc., etc.. Hey buddy, your village is calling. Their idiot is missing.

That’s it for now. If you have a fishing report or a good story let me know Meanwhile, the cobia hunt continues. See ya on the water

Deep Sea Fishing

www.thunderpartyboat.com

Bruce Butler “Stumbling Gypsy” (352) 428-5347 Bruce@IndianBayOutfitters.com www.IndianBayOutfitters.com

22 TAMPA | JUNE 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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Flats to Nearshore Report By: Capt. Gary Burch

T

he fishing was off the charts the first week of May and has not stopped since.

The water cleaned up and settled into its normal temperature range above 80 degrees. Also the weather became stable and very seasonal, just what the fish and the fishermen were looking for.

The inshore waters of Clearwater Harbor and Saint Joseph’s Sound will continue to shine as June arrives. All of our local species will be tearing up the waters from the beaches to the back waters.

Get out early for tarpon, I mean early, way before first light. Look for the tarpon to be along the beaches, rolling and moving with the tides.

Popular locations to start are Clearwater Pass Bridge in the shadow lines and along north Clearwater Beach all the way to north Honeymoon Island. Idle along the beach from 100 yards to a quarter mile out. The best baits will be large live white baits, silver dollar size crabs and cut baits like half a ladyfish on the bottom.

Look for snook to be in their spawning locations, in passes, along the swash channels near the passes and out on the beaches. I will be using medium sized white baits and grunts to catch these linesiders.

Cast these free lined baits out and let them drift into the strike zone. A float can be used around rocks and

jetties to keep the baits from getting hung up.

The big schools of redfish have scattered and taken up residence all around the mangrove and oyster bar areas. It may take some time locating them, but keep looking and remember that they can move daily.

When you find the reds, a little bit of chumming with cut white bait should help with the bite. Toss out small to medium white baits or live large shrimp on a float and give it some time, if nothing happens move on.

Trout will be found in the passes and around grassy areas inside the passes where there is moving water.

Small to medium white baits and small pinfish will be the ticket. Also setting up on a grass flat can be productive.

If all of this is not enough to keep you happy, try fishing along the beaches for mackerel, king fish, cobia, sharks, jacks and ladyfish. Everything is chewing so get out there and get some.

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

3450 34th Street North (Hwy 19) Saint Petersburg, FL 33713 (727) 317-4949 www.stpetefishingoutfitters.com

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5/16/2017 5:28:08 PM

Spearfishing Product Review

By: Jerry Guerra

Carbonio GFT Fins

GFT AGGUATO: What sets the Agguato GFT fins apart from all other carbon fins is that they contain what is referred to as pre preg carbon.

They’re made from a TK6 weave with a V pattern taper in the carbon fabric. This design makes for a very reactive carbon fiber that is a preferred choice for freediving spearfishing.

These fins have a 22 degree bend where the foot pockets mount allowing, for a better angle to keep the fin submerged when surface kicking.

Despite this, the fins still give a very natural feel while kicking down to the target depth.

Several of us at the shop have had these fins for over five years now and have yet to break them. They have survived rocky entries, airline baggage claims and our friends dropping their weight belts on them.

The durability factor is one of the biggest reasons that we at Neptonics prefer this fin. The 80cm x 19cm fins come with a 2 year warranty.

GFT AERO: The GFT aero fins are made with HF pre preg carbon and are made through hot forming. They are also made from a TK8 weave of carbon fabric and have the same V pattern taper as the Agguato.

The weave on these are a little larger than the Agguato, but combined with the hot forming method it gives it a more progressive reaction to the kick.

These fins are ideal for freediving; an immediate reaction is not required from your kick to close the gap on a fish that is just out of range. They have the same 22 degree angle for your ankles just like that Agguato. The 80cm x 20cm pair has a 4 year warranty

GFT ALPHA: Similar to the Aero, the GFT Alpha is made with HF pre preg carbon. They’re also made with a TK10 weave which includes an X pattern and unique shape that allows a very large surface area to contact the water.

This shape and large weave pattern combined with the x pattern in the carbon fiber makes this a great all around fin. The performance is outstanding in currents and depths because of the combination of technology in the carbon fiber.

These have a 24 degree angle that allows for a better surface kick despite its large shape. The 24 degree ankle holster gives your foot a natural feel.

Jerry Guerra 813-732-0534 Spearfishingsolutions.com 7610 Industrial Ln suite 8h Tampa, FL 33637 Spearfishing Equipment

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24 TAMPA | JUNE 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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5/16/2017 5:28:11 PM

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4/19/17 5/16/2017 5:28:119:57 PM AM

Tech Tip: Fishing Apparel By: Capt. Gary Burch

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nshore flats fishing and the extreme Florida sunshine can spell some unforgiving conditions for fisherman.

Excessive sun exposure can cause severe sunburns and damage your skin. Wearing the proper clothing is mandatory when exposed to these conditions as the ultraviolet (UV) rays are the most damaging to skin.

When planning your outfit, remember that dark colors are hot when worn in the sun; dark colors absorb the radiant light energy and convert it into heat. White on the other hand is significantly cooler in the sun; it possesses mostly reflective properties and offers little UV protection.

If you’re fishing in the hot Florida sun, check your shirt labels and make sure they are ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of 50 or greater, this designations means that the material will block out 98 percent of UVA and UVB wave lengths from reaching

your skin.

I like “I HUNT FISH” apparel fishing shirts. They were created to meet the needs of flats fishermen and provide both comfort and protection.

They are soft, cool and comfortable; they’re made from 100 percent cotton, are UPF 50+ and are available in light neutral colors.

I think that they are a must have fishing shirt. I own several and like them. If you are currently planning a fishing trip, consider your apparel from head to toe.

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

Fishing Team

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5/16/2017 5:28:12 PM

Tampa Bay

By: Capt. Woody Gore

Tarpon Springs, Bradenton and Sarasota areas for over fifty years; he offers world class fishing adventures and a lifetime of memories.

J

une usually means the beginning of hot and humid days, but we can still expect good fishing this month, however good fishing has its price - heat.

Everything will be eating this month, so plan your trips now and take advantage of good summertime fishing. But keep in mind these hot days can quickly dehydrate your body, often to the point of danger before you even realize what is happening.

The good thing is that most heat related illnesses are preventable by keeping the body cool and avoiding dehydration.

Symptoms of dehydration include unconsciousness, seizures, difficulty breathing, confusion, vomiting and diarrhea, rapid heartbeat, and hot, dry flushed skin without sweating. If someone exhibits any of these symptoms take action immediately.

Drinking plenty of fluids like water and sports drinks will rehydrate the body. However, fluids containing alcohol tend to impair your decision-making process and often impose safety issues to yourself and others; so if you drink do it responsibly.

Remember, operating a watercraft, while drinking alcohol often equates to trouble. Just like driving under the influence, BUI or Boating under the influence carries stiff fines, confinement or both.

Snook fishing in the summer is almost a given. Practically every angler is looking to catch them and given the amount of fishing pressure especially during weekends it is a wonder they bite at all. Practically any mangrove shoreline holds snook provided there is bait and structure.

Terrific ambush feeders, snook love lying in wait along shady mangrove root systems. Rocky shores and adjacent sandbars are also good places to investigate.

Early morning artificial lure

enthusiasts should work the flats using topwater lures and jerk baits.

June produces some good redfish action around the flats of Tampa Bay. Mullet schools are key factors in finding moving or feeding redfish. Finding redfish means covering lots of water.

Once you find reds remember that they do not venture too far if there is food nearby, so bring lots of greenbacks for bait and chumming. Bear in mind as long as there is food there are fish. Cut pinfish on the bottom are also good choices.

Spotted sea trout fishing continues to remain strong through the summer. Search out deep grass flats looking for grass beds with plenty of broken bottom and potholes. The brokenbottom grass flats with sandy potholes produce large fish and an occasional flounder.

Using live shrimp and greenbacks free lined or under popping corks should produce fish. Tampa Bay offers good fishing check areas like the Pinellas Flats, Veterans Flats, Joes Island, Bishops Harbor, Piney Point, Culbreath and Cockroach.

Good places for cobia are channel markers and sandy grass flats. They often frequent markers, especially those holding bait and cruise the flats following a large ray or manatee.

When fishing markers for snappers, keep a chum bag over the side, it should bring them and large Spanish mackerel around.

Remember, large cobia can be dangerous when landed, always control the fish once boated.

Tarpon fishing really comes alive in June. They are everywhere and they are hungry, from the beach to the upper bay, these fish offer the catch of a lifetime. Large greenbacks, threadfins and crabs found abundantly in the bay are excellent bait choices.

Tarpon fishing around the

Tampa area is good through the summer from the beaches all the way to the causeway. If you are into night fishing almost any bridge holds fish along the light line.

Other fish such as sheepshead, mackerel, kingfish, amberjacks, permit, grouper and snapper offer diversity and are easily accessible.

Fishing around structure or fish attractors are good starting places.

Keep a sharp eye on your bottom machine as you travel, good bottom and structure will pop up when you least expect it.

“Give Me a Call & Let’s Go Fishing” Captain Woody Gore is the area’s top outdoor fishing guide. Guiding and fishing the Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg,

“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.

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5/16/2017 5:28:13 PM

Join the Club By: Misty Wells

F

or anyone who has ever owned a boat, you know exactly what the acronym BOAT means, break out another thousand. There is always the other old saying, “the two happiest days in a boat owner’s life are the day they buy the boat and the day they sell the boat”.

Living in a state that is surrounded by water, how can you still enjoy the water without all the hassle and expense of owning a boat? Freedom Boat Club of Tampa Bay is the answer, they provide “lifetime memories through hassle-free boating”.

I have always wanted to know more about boat clubs and wondered if something like this would work for me. I met with Freedom Boat Club to get the “real scoop” and here is what I found out.

To join you pay a one-time entry fee, you pay affordable monthly dues and you cover your fuel consumption, pretty simple. They have a nice fleet to choose from with many types of boats ranging from deck boats, pontoons, inshore and offshore center consoles and flats boats.

No matter what your plans are, they have the type of boat to cover it.

There are a lot of things I like about the club, two of my favorites are that you don’t have to worry about boat storage and there is no maintenance.

I’m not going to lie, sometimes I want to go out on the water but I just don’t want to deal with the hassle of getting the boat to the water and cleaning it afterwards. I live in a neighborhood where you’re not allowed to store a boat in the yard and so you have to keep it at a storage lot.

Maintenance is a big plus; a few weeks ago I went to put my boat in the water and had a dead battery, which cut two hours off my water time.

So all of that sounds great, but let’s get to the nitty gritty, how many boats do they have, how old are they and is it hard to get a reservation?

Freedom Boat Club of Tampa Bay has 238 new boats and none of them are older than three years.

I checked out the reservation system and it was easy, I was able to reserve the boat I selected on a weekend. They have 13 different ports around our area, so again it’s easy and convenient.

I have some friends that I was telling about the club, they loved everything but were intimidated because they really don’t have much experience on the water. Freedom Boat Club of Tampa Bay offers unlimited free training by Coast Guard licensed captains.

Boat clubs may not be a fit for everyone, but I know it is a great fit for many hard working, water loving Tampa Bay residents that want to get on the water. Want to give a Father’s Day present that will really make some memories - call Freedom Boat Club of Tampa Bay. Fill the cooler and get on the water. Tell them Misty sent you!

Freedomboatclub.com/tampabay 727.228.1050 Misty Wells Host of the National Radio & TV show “Let’s Take It Outside”, Outdoor Pro –Writer & Adventure Guide for Fishing & Hunting trips. Founder of “A Reel Future” a non-profit organization devoted to sharing knowledge & passion of fishing and the great outdoors to future generations & foster kids in need.

Sponsor Clearwater High Fishing Club. Show info or be a guest go to www.mistywells.com 28 TAMPA | JUNE 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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5/16/2017 5:28:14 PM

Beach Marine Bait Pens

T

eddy Beach grew up racing. Racing and fishing have always been his family’s two passions.

“Jim Reider once told me, ‘Hey, kid you’re going to be fine,” Teddy said, remembering a night at the Indianapolis State Fairgrounds in 2005. “Over the course of the race, I heard his voice many times for he was my crew chief and spotter that night. We went on to win the 2005 Hoosier 100. I will remember those words forever.”

Teddy’s dad was a drag racer at many different professional lev-

els. Teddy grew up with a fist full of throttle and a loud pedal under his right foot. Brakes were optional. Ted Sr. is Teddy’s hero, best friend and mentor. The elder is a third-generation manufacturer, farmer and entrepreneur. They come from a small village named Donnelsville, Ohio, where Teddy grew up running down the hill from the house directly into their tool and die shop.

Mike Zimmer was their engineer at the time, and he would run Teddy out of the drafting room because he got tired of the boy destroying erasers and asking too many questions.

The point of all this is to explain that engineering and manufacturing are in the family’s blood. Fishing is a passion, and they have fished all over Florida since Teddy was born. From bottom fishing for grouper and snapper off Fort Myers to sailfish and mahi in the Keys and marlin and tuna over in the Bahamas, if they weren’t racing, they were fishing.

Out of the combination of those two passions, Beach Marine Products was founded to provide the market with innovative and professional saltwater fishing products. Beach Marine’s live bait pens are industry changing.

With a sloped-bottom design and industry changing false bottom, these bait pens were engineered to reduce stress on baitfish.

Heavy duty all 6061 aluminum construction with zinc anode assures a durable and long-lasting product. All hardware is stainless steel and doubled up, so there is no single point of failure.

They are powder coated with no sharp edges to hurt or red nose baits. The Beach Blue color gives the pens a unique clean appearance as well as a calming atmosphere to decrease stress on the bait while holding. Large oversize doors allow access for cast nets and large dip nets.

Beach Bait Pens come in many different shapes and sizes ranging from a 30Gal round, to a monster 400Gal oval. Beach Bait Pens are tough just like the Anglers who use them everyday. If you fish live bait, there is only one bait pen you should own. That is a Beach Marine Products.

Learn more at www.beachmarineproducts.com.

Flats or Bay, which one?

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FLY FISHING

BE HONEST ABOUT YOUR FLY CASTING ABILITIES

W

hen booking a saltwater fly fishing trip with a guide, a mistake some fly fishers make is overstating their casting abilities. This will most likely lead to frustration for both the angler and guide resulting in a very long day on the water.

Here are a couple of tips to make sure this situation is avoided Practice Makes Perfect Yep, the old saying “practice makes perfect” is so true. So, before embarking on a guided fly fishing trip, take the time to practice casting to a comfortable distance. For example, if you’re targeting redfish, make sure you can cast to a target at 40 feet.

Most redfish are hooked at a closer range, however, being able to make the longer 40-foot cast will make the shorter casts of 15 to 30 feet seem much easier. Remember, casting is not only about proper timing and technique but also how confident the angler is at making the cast.

Set Your Target Range Like archery, fly casting is all about executing a cast to a specific spot at certain distance. The best way to accomplish this is to set up targets in an open space in your backyard or at the park. I find the best targets are small orange soccer cones. These are easily seen, have a small diameter and won’t blow away in the wind. I also prefer the orange cones over the traditional hula hoops because it forces the caster to cast to a smaller target area.

Mouse It’s What’s For Dinner

By Charlie Warfield

E

veryone knows summer is a great time to catch trout on a fly.

But for those looking to take fly fishing for trout to a whole new level, consider mousing. Mousing refers to fishing for trout with large topwater patterns meant to mimic small rodents.

It is a tactic best utilized at night, when nocturnal rodents forage.

The basic premise is that large trout have adapted their diet to eat mostly meat, be it smaller fish, rodents, frogs or even small birds. These fish are the top of the food chain in the waters where they reside, and they can be extremely hard to catch. They mostly hunt at night, and use the cover of darkness to stay safe from predators. Fishing at night has its challenges, and it has its rewards.

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10 Feet To 40 Feet Set these cones at the following distances: 10, 20, 30 and 40 feet. I suggest instead of lining up the cones in a straight line, stagger the cones over an area at the appropriate distances. This will force you to make casts in different directions much like you would when encountering gamefish in shallow water.

Cast to each target, starting with the cone closest to you and working up to the farthest cone. The key here is to try to only make one false cast before making the final forward cast to the target. By doing this you are forcing yourself to get the cast to the target as quickly as possible without wasting time on multiple false casts. Remember, false casts might look pretty, but they don’t catch fish!

Accuracy Once you are comfortable casting to each target, start to work on placing the fly as close to the target as possible. As I mentioned earlier, the small diameter of the soccer cone forces you to cast the fly to a very small target zone similar to a fish’s feeding zone.

You want to land the fly within a 2-inch by 2-inch window from the target. Once you are able to hit the target consistently from each distance with one false cast, you’re ready to hit the water.

So, when booking a saltwater fly fishing trip with a guide, don’t make the mistake of overestimating your casting abilities.

Follow the above steps and you will become a better fly caster, catch more fish and make your guide very happy.

For more fly fishing with Bowman, go to

CAMFLYFISHING.COM Here are a few things to keep in mind when mousing.

1. Be quiet. Sometimes it is hard to remember that fish can hear, too. Vibration from even our footsteps can spook these giants. So stealth is the name of the game; walk carefully and quietly and maybe the splash of your fly on the water will be followed by the eruption of water that is an eat from a big nocturnal fish. Keep light to a minimum and use a red/green light so the fish will not be spooked and your eyes will not be shocked by the light.

2. Be aware. When fishing at night, it is critical to know the stream you are fishing. It can be dangerous to be on the banks of a river in the dark, so always move slowly, not only will this help your stealth factor but it will keep you safer. As your senses adjust to the darkness, you can tune in with your surroundings, and you might be amazed at the things you hear and even see with just the light of the moon.

3. Be ready. Big fish eat big food. This applies to fishing streamers during the day or fishing mice in the dark. Have a good selection of large flies that swim on or just below the surface. When mousing, you can also use large subsurface streamers that push a lot of water. Fish can’t see very well in the dark, so they rely on sound and vibration when hunting at night. Large wind-resistant flies are hard to cast when you can see what is going on, much more so when you can’t see your hand in front of your face. Use clear-lensed glasses to protect your eyes.

4. Be calm. It is easy to get excited and pull the fly out of the fish’s mouth when setting the hook, so wait a couple of seconds after you hear the splash. Give the fly a small twitch and wait until you feel the fish, then set the hook and get ready for the night of your life!

See more from Charlie Warfield at www.modernflyfisher.com.

For more on mousing, go to

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JUNE 2017

FLORIDA

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5/16/17 12:07 PM

The perfect fishing knot is not a knot, but a weld!

Sea Turtle Nesting Season Is In Full Swing

Andrea Whitaker got this great shot of hatchling loggerheads making their way to the surf. The photo was taken during a federally permitted sea turtle nesting survey.

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F

ishermen have been on an eternal quest for the perfect knot.

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FLORIDA

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E

very year, thousands of sea turtles wander up south Florida’s sandy beaches to build nests and lay eggs. Our shorelines are an essential habitat to future generations of many species of sea turtles, including loggerheads, greens, hawksbills, leatherbacks and Kemp’s Ridley. Sea Turtle season begins in south Florida in early March and lasts until the end of October.

Loggerheads are by far the most popular species to visit our beaches. The southeastern U.S. is home to the largest nesting aggregation of loggerhead sea turtles in the entire world. Palm Beach County hosts more loggerhead nests per square mile than anywhere else in the world.

Sea Turtles carry out their nesting practices nocturnally. Females with fertilized eggs swim ashore, slowly scooting their way up the beach and away from the waterline. Occasionally, these turtles will feel uncomfortable releasing their eggs and head back into the water to explore a new section of beach.

These instances create a “false crawl,” which can be identified by turtle tracks that form a U shape, leading up the beach and then back down into the water with the absence of a nest.

Once a female turtle has reached a desired spot on the beach and deems it safe to create her nest, she will utilize her strong, paddle-shaped flippers to dig a hole, into which she will release eggs. Generally, sea turtles lay around 100 eggs per nest. Before returning to the water, the turtle uses her flippers to fill in the hole and cover her eggs with sand.

After 60 to 90 days in the nest, depending on species, the baby, or “hatchling,” turtles will emerge from their soft shells and dig their way out of the nest. Hatchlings often emerge at nighttime, and are guided naturally into the water by waves and ambient moonlight reflecting off the ocean.

Throughout much of south Florida, sea turtle nesting season puts into practice “lights out” along the beach. Too much ambient light from populated areas along the beach can disorient baby turtles and cause them to move in the wrong direction, away from the water.

Most of the sea turtle species that nest along our Florida beaches are already endangered, so it’s important to minimize any negative impacts that our presence may have on them. Pick up any trash or discarded marine supplies you see along the shoreline when you visit the beach.

If you come across a sea turtle nesting, keep a good distance between you and the turtle, and keep lights and noise to a minimum.

Remember to fill in any holes that may have been dug during your time at the beach, and stay away from sea turtle tracks and marked nests.

You can learn more about sea turtles and their nesting habits during Pura Vida Divers’ June Social Night, or by completing a PADI Sea Turtle Awareness Distinctive Specialty. Visit our website for a full list of upcoming events at www.puravidadivers.com, or call the shop to sign up for an upcoming class: 561-840-8750.

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CCA Florida STAR Focuses On Education, Conservation

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he largest family friendly saltwater fishing competition in Florida—CCA Florida STAR, presented by Yamaha—kicked off May 27.

With more than $500,000 in prizes and scholarships, the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) is using the social media-based, 101-day event to educate the public on the importance of protecting Florida’s marine resources.

Recognized as a “catch, photo and release” competition, STAR’s smart phone app eliminates the requirement for anglers to harvest or capture and transport fish. Registered anglers submit a photo of their catch on a free official measuring device via the app directly from the boat, dock or ramp. Once photographed, catches may be immediately released back into their natural habitat.

“Our state’s natural resources and fisheries are here for our enjoyment, but we understand that smart angling will preserve these resources for the future,” stated Brian Gorski, executive director of CCA Florida. “The STAR event is a fantastic way to provide a fun competition with amazing prizes, protect our fish populations and generate critical data in the process.”

The event’s Conservation Division is designed to reward anglers who provide the most catch data on all fish caught and released, no matter what species or size. The conservation community and organizations like the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, Snook and Game Fish Foundation, University of Florida and others use the data to make science-based decisions on habitat management, stock assessment and other relevant issues.

In STAR’s signature division, officials will release an average of four tagged redfish per coastal county throughout Florida. Registered adult anglers catching the first six tagged redfish, and using the STAR app to record their catch, are eligible for their choice of prizes including a new GMC Sierra or one of several Yamaha-powered boat packages including a Contender 22 Sport, Pathfinder 2200TRS, Maverick HPX-S, Sea Hunt 225 Ultra or the Carolina Skiff 21 Sport & Fish. Youth anglers will be eligible to participate in the tagged redfish division with the first two winners taking home a Carolina Skiff 16 JVX CC powered by a 40hp Yamaha and a Road King trailer.

A new division to the 2017 STAR event, the Costa Kick Plastic Trash Division rewards participants who gather trash and debris from waterways and submit a photo entry with the 2017 free official measuring device. As with other divisions, participants will be eligible for a random drawing at the end of the 101 days of STAR for a $500 cash prize.

Other divisions include Open, Ladies, Fly, Kayak, Lionfish and Professional Guides. Eligible species are spotted seatrout, snook, sheepshead, non-tagged redfish, cobia, dolphin and kingfish. Division winners are determined by a random drawing, a format that encourages participants of all ages to protect and conserve Florida’s fisheries. The STAR Youth Scholarship Division offers the opportunity to win one of twelve scholarships totaling $100,000. The event runs from Memorial Day, May 27 to Labor Day, Sept. 4 at 5 p.m.

In 2016, more than 5,000 anglers registered for STAR. More than 150 tagged redfish were released throughout the state’s coastal waters, with more than 20 caught and submitted. For more information on STAR, or to register, visit www.ccaflstar.com.

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Snakehead Spawning Patterns

By Brandon Tourigny • The author displays a snakehead he caught that was guarding fry.

S

ince discovered the existence of the species in Florida twenty years ago, it’s safe to say anglers across the state are getting an itch to target snakeheads. For anyone planning a fishing trip for these invaders, there is no better time than now to target them. Being a tropical species, snakeheads naturally prefer the hot spring and summer months in Florida, and with their spawn entering full swing in May and early June, snakehead anglers should be ready for the best bite of the year.

Here I’ll share a few of my more successful tactics for catching snakeheads and observations I’ve made from fishing this time of year which I hope will provide you with as much action as it has for me.

When snakeheads begin their spawn, they’ll cruise the shallowest parts of the canal or lake that they inhabit, so a lot of your fishing will be sight fishing. Early in the spawn, when I am looking for snakeheads that are paired up, the surest way to get them to bite is to reel a buzz frog up over their heads. These prespawn pairs will unleash a vicious strike on any topwater bait you throw at them. If you are able to land the first fish fast enough, the second fish will hang around long enough to throw another lure at it. Prespawn snakeheads can be a little harder to sneak up on once you have spotted them, though, since you are now dealing with trying to hide from two sets of eyes rather than one. Being able to make long, pinpoint-accurate casts can be a game changer for anglers trying to land a prespawn snake.

Once the snakehead fry hatch, I have witnessed snakehead parents strike lures around their fry just as hard as prespawn fish, but I have also seen snakeheads guarding their fry be frustratingly picky. When you find yourself in a situation with a pair of snakeheads that have a bad case of locked jaw, you have to use lures that would attack their fry. Snakehead parents’ only interest is defending their fry, so trying to get the fish to chase down lures, like they would if they were hunting, is not necessarily the best card to play. I have found that when a jig or crawfish-imitating bait quietly drops into the middle of the fry, the fish’s parental instincts kick in and it will almost always attack the lure.

There are so many creative ways to land snakeheads, so don’t just try my tactics. Get creative and experiment! These are a fun fish to target, which provide one of the best fish battles in freshwater. Good luck and tight lines!

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YAMAHA

Rolls Out Exciting Developments For Offshore Anglers

Y

amaha has some exciting new developments in the marketplace this summer that should catch the eye of offshore anglers. The latest version of the venerable F350 outboard now offers five full years of limited warranty protection. Also, Yamaha’s Helm Master Integrated Boat Control System has a new feature that will make large boats powered by big outboards even easier to control.

The newest version of Yamaha’s most powerful outboard, the new 5.3-liter F350C now provides five full years of limited warranty coverage, wrapping a refined outboard package with a list of benefits and features that are still unique in the marketplace nine years after the debut of the original F350.

“The inclusion of five years of limited warranty coverage with the F350C underscores the reliability of the F350,” said Ben Speciale, president, Yamaha Marine Group.

“We are confident that this benefit for our 5.3-liter V8 customers builds in exceptional value for Yamaha’s most powerful outboard on the market.”

Yamaha’s F350 redefined offshore power in 2007 and still has little competition in its class. The first F350 offered an outboard capable of the raw thrust necessary for pushing larger and heavier offshore boats. Thousands of F350s later, there is still nothing like it.

And for boaters looking to control all that power, the new and improved Helm Master Integrated Boat Control System makes fishing from and docking big boats a breeze.

Yamaha Marine Group recently announced a new feature that gives its Helm Master Integrated Boat Control System even greater levels of control.

With the Set Point boat positioning function, boaters now have the capability to integrate all boat control systems and then guide them with GPS navigation technology.

“The introduction of Helm Master changed the way boaters think about controlling larger outboard-powered boats,” said Speciale. “Helm Master made docking less stressful and fishing on the open water more enjoyable. Set Point takes that functionality and precision to the next level.”

Set Point is comprised of a suite of satellite-guided capabilities designed to improve the boater’s ability to fish, maneuver and simply enjoy life on the water. Using a unique dual-antenna GPS to provide Helm Master’s operating system more navigational information, the Set Point function provides even greater and more precise control.

Set Point has three primary modes: Stay Point, Fish Point and Drift Point.

Each Set Point mode provides a solution to the tricky maneuvering challenges boaters encounter every day.

Stay Point keeps the boat positioned near a particular spot; it maintains a selected position and heading. This mode is particularly helpful when a boat must hold a position and heading, for example at a fuel dock or at a bridge opening. In adverse weather or high currents, Helm Master uses higher RPM and greater engine activity to keep the boat as close to the mark as possible, within a 75-foot circle of the set point.

Fish Point enhances fishing options; it maintains a selected position, but not a heading, and primarily uses only idle RPM to do so. The Fish Point mode makes use of a captain’s knowledge in heading a boat into the current or wind, bow upstream or downstream, to maintain a heading. Under normal condi-

tions, the Set Point function will use no more than idle RPM to hold the Fish Point position, which means Fish Point operation is less likely to scare the fish.

In stronger seas, Fish Point will attempt to keep the boat on the point selected using no more than the requested Fish Point RPM to do so, up to 2,500 RPM. Yamaha’s Shift Dampener System propellers play a role in keeping the boat on point quietly, too.

Drift Point allows the boater to drift the boat with the wind or the current; it maintains a selected heading, but not a position. Drift Point mode is particularly useful to maintain a heading when drift fishing or kite fishing. Drift Point allows the boat to drift with the wind or current, but stay pointed in the heading chosen.

Each Set Point mode is activated with the touch of a button. The Set Point control buttons are integrated into the new Helm Master joystick and use Yamaha’s new CL7 touch screen display to initially configure the operator’s preferences. Each Set Point mode is user-defined for the needs of individual boaters. Helm Master Set Point hardware includes a dual-antenna GPS and stern-mounted lighting that illuminates any time any mode of the SetPoint system is active.

The Yamaha CL7 display has a 7-inch touch panel screen with full multi-function display (MFD) capability and connectivity. The display offers precise engine and boat systems data for up to four outboards on one screen, along with other MFD functions such as maps, fishfinder, and graphing capabilities using its built-in 10 MHz GPS. It is the primary display for Yamaha’s fully integrated Helm Master boat control system, and is the required point of access to configure Set Point.

Contact your dealer about the latest version of the Helm Master or for information about a retrofit kit that will bring earlier Helm Master-equipped boats up to date with the new technology. For information on all of Yamaha’s industry-leading products, go to www.yamahaoutboards.com.

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MOTOR REVIEW Tohatsu Introduces New Colors For MFS40 and MFS50

In 2014, Tohatsu brought to market some of its most popular outboards to date with its 40 and 50hp four strokes, the MFS40 and the MFS50.

Weighing less than any other outboard in their class, they have experienced tremendous success in the mid-range market. New for 2017, Tohatsu is offering these in-demand outboards in a new color, Beluga White.

One of the coolest looking outboards on the market is now offered in both Aqua Marine Blue and Beluga White. Boaters now have the option to choose which color best fits with their boat.

The MFS40 starts at just 209 pounds.

This outboard is equipped with proven technology, including electronic fuel injection (EFI) and digital CD ignition, which provides quick throttle response, excellent fuel economy and very smooth rides on the water. The MFS40 also has a high output 21 amp alternator for superior battery charging. The adjustable steering friction and trim tab reduces your amount of steering effort, making for an easier and more enjoyable boating experience.

Convenience is also covered with the 40hp four stroke’s

built-in freshwater flushing system, making routine flushing quick and easy.

The 40hp EFI four stroke not only offers a more powerful ride while using less fuel, but is among the lightest on the water in its class. With proven reliability and performance, the MFS40 is every boater’s versatile choice for work, play or even once-in-a-lifetime memory making.

Many of the same things can be said of the MFS50. It is the lightest weight motor possible, and it has been upgraded with an improved gear case with a lower gear ratio, giving you the increased low end torque your boat needs.

This outboard also has variable idling speed control from 650 to 950 rpms. And the MFS50’s stainless steel water pump housing liner gives you outstanding durability. With the 50hp four stroke’s power to quickly reach your destination, exceptional fuel performance to keep gas costs down and proven electronic fuel injection technology for worry-free boating, you’ve never had a day on the water quite like this.

For more on Tohatsu’s complete lineup of outboards, see www.tohatsu.com/outboards/.

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BOAT REVIEW Piranha F2000

underway and the breeze out of your face. The incorporated padded cooler seat offers insulated storage for you meals and drinks or today’s catch.

Built into the hull design is our transom pocket tunnel that allows you to get the engine jacked up or down to allow for a smooth dry ride in either shallow or deeper water. The F2000 deck design includes built in toe kick and spray chine to keep you on the boat and the water out.

The F2000 is the ultimate fishing platform. Designed by Jesse Rhodes, of Rhodes Yacht Design, an avid inshore fisherman, it takes advantage of the newest hydrodynamics with simplistic style.

SPECIFICATIONS Piranha Boatworks of Sanford, Fla. has designed the ultimate fishing platform with its F2000 Flats/Bay boat.

Drafting 6 to 8 inches, with a maximum of 150 hp, this sleek hull can get you to and from your favorite fishing grounds in short order. It offers all that Piranha Boatworks is famous for, a large forward casting deck, plenty of storage fore and aft and 6 under-gunnel rod holders.

The deck is laid out with a large dry storage compartment forward and three storage wells aft. The aft wells are comprised of an aerated live well, release well and dry storage in a saddle bag configuration.

The F2000’s large center console has space for all your flush mount electronics. The console grab rail and wind screen keep you steady while

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MOTOR REVIEW Suzuki Marine Introduces New Models To Outboard Lines

Suzuki Marine is expanding two of its most popular lines of outboards with new models to fill the needs of boaters and anglers.

New SS-Series Models The performance-oriented SS-Series, with its signature matte-black paint job and distinctive graphics, is growing with a new 200hp four stroke and the availability of a 25-inch shaft length on its premier 250 SS V6.

“People really like the performance matte black look and have been asking us to expand the line,” said Gus Blakely, vice president of sales for Suzuki Marine. “We’re happy to do that by adding the 200SS and making the 250SS available for more kinds of boats.”

The Suzuki 200SS features Suzuki’s 200-horsepower inline 4-cylinder powerhead, with 175.0 cubic inch displacement, dual overhead cams and a 10.2:1 compression ratio for increased power and performance. Engine operations are managed by an onboard Engine Control Module and an array of sensors that control the engine’s multi-point sequential electronic fuel injection system and Lean Burn Control technology.

The 200SS will come with conventional mechanical throttle and shift control and will be available in 20-inch and 25-inch shaft models. At just 518 lbs, this 4-cylinder outboard delivers V6 like performance in a more compact, lightweight package.

The availability of a 25-inch shaft model for the popular 250SS has been eagerly awaited. The V6 4-Stroke 250SS, with 4.0 liter displacement and a powerful 2.08:1 gear ratio, has built a solid reputation on the pro-bass circuit. With the addition of a 25-inch shaft length model, this high-powered outboard will find new application on bay boats, walleye boats, even the new breed of performance pontoon boats.

New AP Advanced Series Models Suzuki has every right to be proud of the DF150AP and DF175AP, two new models in their toptier AP-Series. In addition to a long list of advanced features, these new 150- and 175-hp inline four cylinder outboards feature Suzuki Precision Control drive-by-wire throttle and shift, as well as Suzuki’s innovative Selective Rotation gear case.

These outboards share their engineering DNA with Suzuki’s popular DF200AP 200-horsepower inline-four cylinder outboard. All three engines are built off of the same 175 cubic inch displacement inlinefour cylinder engine block. The new DF150AP and DF175AP boast the largest displacement in their respective horsepower classes.

Engine performance is enhanced by a 10.2:1 compression ratio that generates optimal power, contributing to an impressive hole-shot and mid-range acceleration. A newly developed Semi-Direct Air Intake System further boosts power by providing cooler airflow to each cylinder.

With the addition of these two models, Suzuki offers a wide range of new generation lightweight, compact, yet powerful inline four cylinder 4-stroke outboards.

For more information on Suzuki’s full line of 4-stroke outboard motors, visit www.suzukimarine.com or call 714-996-7040.

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Buy a new Suzuki outboard from 25 to 300 horsepower and take advantage of not just one, but ALL THREE Suzuki Spring promotional offers.

Add cash rebates on select models and you can get up to $800 cash back. Plus our Repower Financing is available at attractive interest rates (on approved credit.*)

Just say, “Gimme Six!” and you’ll get six years of product protection. That’s right, you’ll get Suzuki’s three-year limited warranty and Suzuki’s 3-Year Extended Protection Plan at no extra charge.

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Gimme Six Extended Protection promo is applicable to new Suzuki Outboard Motors from 25 to 300 HP in inventory which are sold and delivered to buyer between 4/01/17 and 6/30/17 in accordance with the promotion by a Participating Authorized Suzuki Marine dealer in the continental US and Alaska to a purchasing customer who resides in the continental US or Alaska.

Customer should expect to receive an acknowledgement letter and full copy of contract including terms, conditions and wallet card from Suzuki Extended Protection within 90 days of purchase. If an acknowledgement letter is not received in time period stated, contact Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. – Marine Marketing via email: marinepromo@suz.com. The Gimme Six Promotion is available for pleasure use only, and is not redeemable for cash. Cash Rebates apply to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki Outboard Motors made between 4/01/17 and 6/30/17. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine.com. Customer and participating Dealer must fill out the appropriate rebate form at time of sale. Customer will have the choice to either apply the cash rebate against the original dealer invoice (Suzuki will credit Dealer parts account) or have a check sent directly to the customer. There are no model substitutions, benefit substitutions, rain checks, or extensions. Suzuki reserves the right to change or cancel these promotions at any time without notice or obligation. * Financing offers available through Synchrony Retail Finance. As low as 5.99% APR financing for 60 months on new and unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors. Subject to credit approval. Not all buyers will qualify. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. $19.99/month per $1,000 financed for 60 months is based on 5.99% APR. Hypothetical figures used in calculation; your actual monthly payment may differ based on financing terms, credit tier qualification, accessories or other factors such as down payment and fees. Offer effective on new, unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors purchased from a participating authorized Suzuki dealer between 4/01/17 and 6/30/17. “Gimme Six”, the Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2017 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.

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FRESHWATER

BOAT REVIEW CustomBilt Pondtoon

The Pondtoon is the perfect small-water boat for the avid river and pond angler, duck and bow hunter, as well as the family with children or grandchildren. All boats are all-welded aluminum construction made in the USA with premium options to meet every fisherman’s needs in boating.

There are several styles to choose from that include: Fishing Series, Hunting Series, Pleasure Series, Farm/Pond Workboats, Search and Rescue and our new Camo boat. There are even wheelchair-accessible models Pondtoon boats are factory assembled in three standard sizes with options and additional features that allow you to equip the boat for your fishing and hunting style at a very affordable price. Contact us at 334-684-2210 or pondtoons@gmail.com with any questions to help you “customize” your very own CustomBilt Pondtoon boat.

SPECIFICATIONS LENGTH: 14’16” BEAM: 5’ to 6’ MAX HP: 9.9

CONSTRUCTION: .090 marine-grade aluminum BUILDER: Custombilt Pondtoons

WWW.BOATSANDFISHING.COM

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FRESHWATER $1200 IN-HOUSE REBATE OR FREE BOAT COVER BOSSMAN TECHNICAL POLING SKIFFS

18,950

FR $

“ 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

21,900

FR $

Your Florida Bass Cat Headquarters

VISIT OKEECHOBEE

(321) 409-5712 2723 Palm Bay Road, Palm Bay, FL sales@aquatechmarineinc.com www.aquatechmarineinc.com (863) 763-3959 WWW.VISITOKEECHOBEECOUNTY.COM

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FRESHWATER

SPIDER KING ROD HOLDERS

OUTRIGGERS

COMBO PACKS

100% ALUMINUM EASY INSTALLATION NO DRILLING NECESSARY GUNNEL MOUNT SPIDER RIGS www.SpiderKingRodHolders.com

www.power-pole.com

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FIELD TEST

Sea Eagle FishSUP FS126

Standup paddleboard fishing is trending, so we eagerly tested Sea Eagle’s new inflatable FishSUP FS126. Sea Eagle calls it super stable. We were super impressed.

With a length of 12’6” and a width of 40”, it’s a spacious platform that’s tough enough to work hardened shorelines. Heavy duty .90 drop-stitch material covers the top, bottom and sides for superior protection against punctures and a 90” by 18” thick, camouflage EVA pad adds additional buffering while providing a non-slip footbed. An integral 36-inch ruler makes fish measurement a snap.

We packed this rig in the trunk, hit the beach, and fully inflated it in less than 10 minutes. Smartly positioned D-rings tightly secured optional accessories including a swivel seat with Scotty rod holders, battery, 34-lb. thrust electric motor and forward mesh storage box with tube-style rod holders.

An SUP paddle, kayak paddle, backpack, hand pump and repair kit come with the basic package. Price: $1099. For more information, call Sea Eagle at 800748-8066 M-F, 9-5 EST, or check out their website.

WWW.SEAEAGLE.COM

NEVER WAX AGAIN! Defender RESTORE AND PROTECT YOUR BOAT Poli Glow does what wax can’t!

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for more than 12 months with a finish that is “like new!”

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Most orders Placed by 4:30 et shiP the saMe day!

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2017

FREE Catalog!

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Record Channel Cat Caught In N.Y. Reported by Justin Walts

E

PWC Fishing Towers

Enclosures

Rod Holders

Casting Platform

E-Box

Accessory Mounts

Lights

ric Scordo, of Watertown, N.Y., is a trophy catfish hunter. On April 30, he achieved a long-held dream of breaking the New York state record for channel catfish when he boated a massive 35.25-pounder from Lake Ontario’s Chaumont Bay. Caught on live bait using an Okuma reel paired with an Ugly Stick rod and an Addya hook, the beast smashed the existing record by more than 3 pounds. The previous record, which stood since 2002, weighed 32.12 pounds and was caught from Brant Lake, a 1,300acre reservoir in the Hudson River drainage.

Scordo is a little bit of a fanatic about catch and release. The philosophy makes sense for someone specializing in large catfish, as it can take these fish decades to grow to state record size. Scordo was determined to release his record fish alive. So after it was weighed on a certified scale at Chaumont Hardware, the fish was taken to Chaumont Bay Marina where assistance was provided in keeping the fish alive and healthy. It was kept in a bait tank for a full day before a state biologist made it out for verification.

After the record was verified, Scordo nurtured the fish to recovery and released it back into Chaumont Bay. An impressive gathering of local media were on-hand to video the fish’s release.

Check out Chaumont Bay Marina on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/chaumontbaymarina/?rf=120452787968030

For more on this record catch, go to

Storage Bag

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WAHOO “COWBELLS’’ & ‘’SNAGGER’’ DOLPHIN LURES

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You could get a discount when you combine your auto and boat policies.

for your boat geico.com | 1-800-865-4846 | Local Office Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Boat and PWC coverages are underwritten by GEICO Marine Insurance Company. Multi-Policy Discount available to auto insureds that have purchased a boat policy through the GEICO Marine Insurance Company. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. © 2017 GEICO

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LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 10/1/17* At Harbor Freight Tools, the “Compare” or “comp at” price means that the same item or a similar functioning item was advertised for sale at or above the “Compare” or “comp at” price by another retailer in the U.S. within the past 180 days. Prices advertised by others may vary by location. No other meaning of “Compare” or "comp at" should be implied.

For more information, go to HarborFreight.com or see store associate.

Use Coupons: In-Store, HarborFreight.com orCOASTALANGLERMAG.COM 1-800-423-2567 • THEANGLERMAG.COM I *Original coupon only. No use on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase or without original receipt. Valid through 10/1/17.

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UR-Cut

Fishmaster Launches Best Catch Contest for Customers Nationwide

F

i s h m a s t e r, creators of the first universal folding T-Top, has launched the Fishmaster Best Catch Contest. This contest offers Fishmaster customers and anglers throughout the U.S the opportunity to win a custom fiberglass reproduction of their award-winning catch crafted by American Fish Taxidermy.

Contestants can submit unlimited pictures of their catch for a chance to win monthly prizes and to become eligible to win this grand prize, valued at $500 to $1,000. Entrants are encouraged to submit as many photos of different catches as possible. The contest kicked off Saturday, April 1, 2017 and ends on Saturday, Sept. 30, 2017.

“We design our products with the ultimate goal of helping our fellow anglers reel in the perfect catch,” said Greg Spivia of Fishmaster. “We want to showcase our loyal customers with the fish they caught in a way they can remember forever, through partnering with the most talented fish taxidermist in the U.S.—American Fish Taxidermy.”

Through the contest, Fishmaster is awarding monthly prizes through September. Monthly prizes will be announced via email and Facebook on the first Monday of each month. The Grand Prize Winner will be announced on Oct. 15 via email with public notice on Fishmaster’s Facebook page. Monthly winners are eligible for the Grand Prize; however, our independent team of anglers will review all submissions before naming the big winner.

Fishmaster encourages all interested parties to learn more about the Best Catch Contest, official rules, and how to enter at https://fishmaster. com/bestcatch.

BIG ICE

MAKE YOUR OWN ICE!

TRAYS

-Makes six 4” Cubes -10 lbs. of Ice per Tray -Last twice as long!

-No more plastic bags -Save money by easily reusing

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.

dexteroutdoors.com

BOAT REVIEW Mitzi Skiffs Mitzi 17

bigice.com contact@bigice.com

contact@bigice.com | 504-710-7766

JOIN

ONLINE

• Regional Reports • Featured Articles • Fishing Tips • Giveaways

If you shallow-water fish and need a flats boat, Mitzi Skiff is the boat for you. All Mitzi Skiff models float very shallow, they pole easily and track straight. With a minimum of horsepower, they are quick and provide a very smooth and dry ride.

Mitzi Skiffs offers several models to fit an angler’s needs and budget. Their Mitzi 17 is perfect for the most demanding shallow-water anglers and charter captains. From its ability to get you home comfortably to its ultra-stealthy, no-hull-slap hull, it’s truly an angler’s boat. The 17’s CAD-designed hull has performance unmatched by any other shallow-draft skiff, at any price. It will do 45mph with a 60 hp engine, and it is capable of fishing 3 or 4 people. It offers lots of storage, easy maintenance and is remarkably dry.

With a wide bow area and 11-degree deadrise hull, these boats take you to the shallow areas to find the fish and across open water as well. Mitzi Skiffs came from the idea that flats fishing didn’t have to be a rich man’s sport. Mitzi skiff is a boat that all of us can afford.

They are lightweight, all composite, shallow water workhorses. There are many options available including center consoles, live wells, built-in tanks, Power Poles and much more. Professional captains guide out of Mitzi Skiffs every day, even days that are less ideal conditions.

SPECIFICATIONS

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Fillet Knives

The only custom moldable handle fillet knife.

I

LENGTH: 16’10” BEAM: 77” DRAFT: 7”

WEIGHT: 550 lbs.

FUEL: 12 gallons MAX HP: 70

WWW.MITZISKIFFS.COM

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YAMAHA OUTBOARD’S

SEASON OF SAVINGS SALES EVENT

OFFER VALID FROM

MAY 1, 2017–JUNE 16, 2017 Get the season started with a reliable Yamaha four-stroke outboard.

For a limited time, purchase an eligible, select, new Yamaha 2.5-hp to 175-hp† four-stroke outboard, and receive:

750

$ ELIGIBLE FOUR-STROKE OUTBOARDS

DEALERSHIP CREDIT TOWARD THE PURCHASE OF GOODS/SERVICES

175 HP†

$750 based on MSRP

115-150 HP†

$500 based on MSRP

60-90 HP

$400 based on MSRP

30-50 HP

$300 based on MSRP

20-25 HP

$200 based on MSRP

8-15 HP

$150 based on MSRP

2.5-6 HP

$125 based on MSRP

†

†

†

UP TO

The following four-stroke models are NOT eligible for this promotion: VF175XA, VF115XA, F90LB, F90XB, F90JB, F75LB, F25SMHC, F25LMHC, F25SWHC, F25LWHC, F25SWC, F25LWC, F25LC and F25LWTC.

IN DEALER CREDIT

Toward the purchase of additional goods or services from your authorized, participating Yamaha outboard dealer.*

See your authorized participating Yamaha outboard dealer today for details!

Other restrictions and conditions may apply. *PROGRAM TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Consumer benefit for purchasing a new (unused not previously warranty registered) eligible Yamaha 2.5 to 175 HP four-stroke outboard is a credit based on MSRP toward the purchase of goods and/or services at the authorized, participating dealer that sold the outboard, at no extra cost to consumer. NO BENEFIT SUBSTITUTIONS. The following four-stroke models are NOT eligible for this promotion: VF175XA, VF115XA, F90LB, F90XB, F90JB, F75LB, F25SMHC, F25LMHC, F25SWHC, F25LWHC, F25SWC, F25LWC, F25LC and F25LWTC. To be eligible, outboards must also have been manufactured since January 2010. Promotion is only applicable from authorized participating Yamaha Outboard dealers in the U.S.A. sold to purchasing consumers residing in the U.S.A. Promotion is limited to available stock in dealer inventory that is sold, PDI completed, delivered and warranty registered on YMBS by the dealer in accordance with Yamaha’s promotion and warranty registration requirements during applicable dates. No model substitutions, benefit substitutions, extensions or rain checks will be allowed.

Outboards sold or provided for commercial, camp, resort, rental, promotional/demo, scratch-and-dent, government agency, competition, tournament or sponsorship use are not eligible. This promotion cannot be used in conjunction with any other Yamaha offer. Some exceptions may apply. See authorized, participating Yamaha dealer for complete details. Yamaha reserves the right to change or cancel this promotion at any time. Other restrictions and conditions apply.

REMEMBER to always observe all applicable boating laws. Never drink and drive.

Dress properly with a USCG-approved personal floatation device and protective gear. © 2017 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved.

YamahaOutboards.com

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