The Angler Magazine | March 2025 | Okeechobee / Lake Istokpoga Edition by Coastal Angler Magazine

LOCAL FORECASTS & PHOTOS

Smooth Sailing

navigating peace of mind

THE IMPORTANCE OF BOAT INSURANCE

Embarking on the open water is an exhilarating experience, flled with the promise of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a weekend cruiser, protecting your vessel with proper insurance is not just a choice—it’s a necessity. Explore the reasons why every boat owner should prioritize boat insurance for a worry-free voyage.

Unpredictable waters

The open water can be unpredictable, with unexpected storms, collisions, or other potential accidents. Boat insurance can give you fnancial protection if there is damage to your vessel, providing coverage for repairs or replacement.

Damage and injury

Accidents on the water can result in damage to other boats, docks, or even injuries to passengers. Boat insurance offers liability coverage, which can pay for damages or injuries you’re liable for while boating, up to specifed limits, and lawsuit costs if you’re sued. This includes damage you cause to another watercraft or if someone on or near your boat is injured and you’re found to be legally responsible.

Theft and vandalism

Unfortunately, boat theft and vandalism are realities that boat owners face. Boat insurance has comprehensive and collision coverage that can protect you against events outside of your control, including theft and vandalism.

Incurred medical payments

Accidents on the water may lead to injuries for you or your passengers. Boat insurance offers a range of optional medical payments coverage limits, helping to cover medical expenses if you are in an accident or someone is hurt on your boat, regardless of fault.

Peace of mind for fnancing

If you fnanced the purchase of your boat, most lenders require insurance coverage to protect their investment. Having boat insurance not only fulflls these requirements but also gives you peace of mind knowing that your fnancial interests are safeguarded.

Navigational fexibility

Some water municipalities and marinas may require proof of insurance for docking or accessing certain areas. Boat insurance allows you the fexibility to explore different destinations without worrying about entry restrictions.

Emergency towing and assistance

Progressive boat insurance can include optional Sign & Glide® On-Water Towing coverage. If your boat is disabled or breaks down on the water, Sign & Glide® pays for on-water towing, jump starts, soft un-groundings, and fuel delivery.

Wreckage removal

If your boat sinks, Progressive boat insurance will cover the cost of removing your boat from the water (if removal is legally required).

Investing in boat insurance is not just about protecting a valuable asset; it’s about safeguarding the memories, experiences, and joy that come with your on-water adventures. Don’t let unforeseen circumstances disrupt your journey—navigate with confdence, knowing that Progressive boat insurance has you covered. Ensure a smooth and worry-free voyage, because when it comes to your boat, peace of mind is the ultimate luxury.

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DESTINATION FISHING

By Ben Martin, Editor in Chief

Fishing is a beloved pastime that transcends borders, drawing anglers to new destinations around the globe. Whether it’s the thrill of chasing trophy !sh, exploring pristine environments, or immersing oneself in local cultures, traveling to !sh o ers a unique and enriching experience. But why do so many anglers feel compelled to venture far from their home waters to cast a line? Here are some key reasons behind this phenomenon.

For many anglers, the chance to catch a once-in-a-lifetime !sh is a driving force behind their travels. Di erent regions are home to speci!c species that can’t be found elsewhere. For example, the tarpon-rich waters of the Florida Keys, the salmon runs in Alaska, or the giant trevally in the Seychelles all serve as magnets for anglers. e challenge of targeting these iconic species and the bragging rights that come with landing them o en justify the journey.

requires anglers to adapt and learn. Di erent locations come with unique !shing techniques, such as y !shing in Montana’s rivers, jigging for tuna in o shore waters, or using traditional handlines in tropical locales. Each trip is an opportunity to

friends and family or encounters with local guides and fellow anglers. ese interactions create lasting memories and a sense of camaraderie that extends beyond borders. In turn, the stories and photos from these adventures become cherished mementos, sparking conversations and inspiring others to pursue their own !shing journeys.

Magazine and its digital magazine Magazine have always tried to bring you news and awareness about exotic !shing destinations around the world. Your trips and adventures are an integral part of our monthly compilation process. Your photos, videos and stories about your !shing trips are always welcomed here.

acquire new skills, re!ne existing ones, and deepen one’s appreciation for the art and science of !shing.

Fishing in new destinations allows anglers to experience a variety of ecosystems, each with its unique beauty and challenges. From tranquil mountain streams and sprawling freshwater lakes to turquoise saltwater ats and deep ocean trenches, the diversity of !shing environments is staggering. is variety not only enhances the adventure but also broadens an angler’s understanding of aquatic habitats and their importance to global biodiversity.

Traveling to new !shing destinations o en

Fishing inherently fosters a deep connection with nature, but traveling ampli!es this experience. Anglers o en !nd themselves in remote, untouched locations where the tranquility and beauty of the natural world are at their peak. is immersion provides a welcome escape from the stresses of daily life and fosters a sense of mindfulness and gratitude.

Fishing trips o en bring people together, whether it’s through shared experiences with

For many anglers, !shing is more than a sport—it’s an adventure. Traveling to new destinations satis! human desire to explore the unknown and conquer its challenges. Whether it’s navigating unfamiliar waters, encountering unpredictable weather, or matching wits with elusive !sh, each trip is a thrilling chapter in an angler’s personal story. e reasons anglers travel to as diverse as the destinations they seek. From the pursuit of trophy catches to the joy of exploring new landscapes, each journey o ers a blend of excitement, education, and enrichment. For those who !sh, the world is not just a playground but a treasure trove of opportunities waiting to be discovered. So, pack your gear, book that trip, and embrace the adventure—the next big catch might be just a plane ride away.

To submit your catch photos, videos or stories, email editorial@coastalanglermagazine.com.

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You got new charts! Explore the ocean with vibrant terrain & depth shading, using all-new TZ MAPS. Don’t just take our word for it. See for yourself. Scan here, and we’ll show you!

Catching an Unexpected Trophy in the Atlantic

What started as a morning of unproductive wahoo trolling north of St. Augustine turned into an unforgettable battle with one of Florida’s most prized catches. Capt. Daniel Levesque and his crew aboard Rare Breed had spent hours searching for wahoo, battling against an uncooperative west wind, when they decided to switch tactics.

“A er passing over endless schools of blue runners and proli!c bottom structure, I pulled into a spot that had previously produced wahoo,” recalls Capt. Daniel. “ e sonar was marking !sh from top to bottom.”

By Brandon Shoaf

As two anglers at the bow dropped sabiki rigs to collect live bait, their lines became hopelessly entangled. While the captain worked to untangle the mess of braided line, angler Mike Lorenz noticed something interesting on the sonar screen. He dropped down an old, paint-worn butter y jig to about 60 feet.

“It got hit by what felt like a train,” Lorenz describes. “ e conventional reel was screaming. At !rst, I thought I had a shark, but it felt di erent.” e mystery !sh made several blistering runs, nearly spooling Lorenz’s reel multiple times. e battle switched between long runs and deep, powerful dives under the boat. “It felt more like !ghting a huge grouper when it was beneath us,” says Lorenz. “I think both the !sh and I were taking breaks between rounds.”

Capt. Daniel maneuvered the boat to help chase down the !sh. A er an

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intense !ght, a massive silver ash appeared near the surface, prompting the captain to shout “AP!” e prize—a massive African pompano—was !nally secured with a well-placed ga shot by Capt. Daniel. e crew gathered for photos, marveling at their spectacular trophy, a testament to both the !sh’s size and the memorable nature of the catch.

What began as a “cursed” day of wahoo !shing transformed into the catch of a lifetime, proving once again that sometimes the best !shing stories come when plans go sideways and anglers remain ready for whatever opportunity presents itself.

Brandon Shoaf is Co-Publisher of Coastal Angler Magazine’s Volusia County edition. Contact him at (386) 260-9600 or volusia@coastalanglermagazine.com.

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By Brandon Tourigny

FLORIDA’S CHAIN PICKEREL

In the northern parts of our great country, anglers enjoy chasing down enormous pike and elusive musky. We Floridians don’t usually give this toothy family of sh a second thought since the lake monsters of the north are nowhere to be found in our waters. ere is, however, a smaller cousin of northern pike and musky that Florida anglers willing to do a little searching can have the pleasure of shing for: the chain pickerel.

Named for their greenish and dark colorations creating a chainlike pattern, these sh stand out among the pike family. Alongside their smaller relative, the red n pickerel, these are the only pike family members commonly found in Florida.

Chain pickerel are found statewide and most o en inhabit densely vegetated areas of ponds, swamps and rivers. ese predatory sh are solitary hunters that prowl the shallows in search of small minnows and shad. e chain pickerel’s lightning-fast strikes and long snake-like body make for an exhilarating battle on lighter tackle. e best place to start in terms of selecting baits would be to go with small Rapala jerkbaits and crankbaits, topwater plugs and spinnerbaits. To be able to fully appreciate the ght in these feisty predators, a good rod and reel set up would be a medium-light action spinning rod paired with a 2,500 to 3,000 size spinning reel spooled up with 10- to 20-pound braided line. Don’t be surprised, however, if these toothy sh cut you o$ on occasion. eir mouths are full of needle-sharp teeth that can tear through shing line, and your ngers, very easily.

If you are looking to gain some recognition for your chain pickerel, be sure to check out the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s big catch program, which gives wellearned recognition to large sh of a number of species caught in Florida. In terms of chain pickerel, any sh 3 pounds and heavier will qualify for this program. Also, as I always like to remind anglers across Florida, these sh are a native species to our state and deserve our respect when shing for them. Try to return sh unharmed to the water as quickly as possible to ensure your catch can continue to grow and carry on the population so our children a er us can have the chance to catch these magni cent sh.

FWC Applauds Governor’s Recommended Budget for Prioritizing Florida’s Natural Resources

Recommendations include $30 million to Restore Apalachicola’s Oyster Habitat, $10 Million for Shooting Sports Facilities, and $10 million for Artiﬁcial Reefs

Governor Ron DeSantis recently announced his 2025-26 Focus on Fiscal Responsibility Budget recommendations, solidifying Florida’s status as the nation’s leader in sh and wildlife conservation and outdoor recreation.

“Governor DeSantis’ recommendations reinforce his unwavering support to Florida’s sheries, hunting and angling community, public access to shooting sports, and the long-term recovery of the Apalachicola Oyster Habitat,” said FWC Executive Director Roger Young. “ ese investments are in addition to the Governor’s law enforcement pay plan, support of enhanced training capabilities for FWC O cers, and funding to bolster our operations to combat illegal immigration and drug tra cking.”

Florida is home to some of the country’s premier destinations for top-tier shing, hunting, and outdoor recreational opportunities. ese activities draw outdoor enthusiasts to our state and contribute signi cantly to the state’s economy with nearly $15 billion dollars. With more than 34 million acres of public and private land and over 12,000 square miles of water, maintaining our sh and wildlife resources is critical to sustaining a healthy way of life and a robust economy.

• Restoring Apalachicola Bay Oysters:

Historically, nearly 90% of Florida’s and 10% of the nation’s wild oysters came from Apalachicola Bay. is year, the Governor is recommending $30 million in funding to expedite FWC’s e$orts to restore and recover the oyster habitat. is investment is in addition to an additional $10 million investment in the Department of Environmental Protection’s budget to invest in projects that support the Apalachicola Bay Area of Critical State Concern.

• Promoting Floridians’ Access to Public Boat Ramps: As the Boating Capital of the World, Florida’s coastal communities must have enough publicly accessible boat ramps. As such, the budget recommends $9 million to increase public access to maritime facilities while providing another year of %exibility in the Department of Environmental Protection’s Working Waterfronts program.

• Investing in Florida’s Arti cial Reefs: e Focus on Fiscal Responsibility Budget provides $10 million to support additional reefs across Florida’s coastlines.

• Increasing Public Access to Shooting Sports and Wild Game: e Governor’s Budget invests $9.2 million to support the construction of two new shooting sports facilities in Liberty and Polk counties while also calling for a “Second

Amendment Summer” tax holiday on rearms and ammunition. Additionally, the budget provides $9 million to manage FWC’s wildlife management areas.

• Prioritizing Fresh and Saltwater Research and State Management: As recommended by the Governor, FWC is provided additional funds to support FWC’s marine lab in Cedar Key and increased funding to support the management of Red Snapper o$ all of Florida’s coastlines. e budget also prioritizes investments in Florida Bass, Snook, Tripletail, and other Bone sh species.

• Defending Florida’s Everglades from Invasive Species: Governor DeSantis includes more than $3 million to remove pythons from the Everglades utilizing traditional methods and innovative technologies.

• Maintaining Law & Order: e Governor provides $5 million for a dedicated state training facility for waterborne rescues and $4.4 million to codify the FWC’s Special Immigration Law Enforcement Unit.

FWC’s mission is to manage sh and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the bene t of the people. To learn more about FWC, visit MyFWC.com.

LAKE ISTOKPOGA & LAKE OKEECHOBEE EDITION

LCapt. Angie Douthit

Okeechobee REPORT & FORECAST

ake Okeechobee has been great for bass and crappie fishing, and the bream are heading into the shallows to start their annual spawn season, which typically lasts through the summer months. This is also a great time to fish for bass, throwing lures in/around bluegill beds with swim baits, top water, frogs, swim jigs, and worms.

May is a great time to fish the lake with less boat traffic, steady weather temps, cold fronts over, and not into the hot summer temps yet, and it is peaceful. Want to book a trip but never booked with a guide before?

Here are some typical questions people ask when we discuss their trip. As the guide, do I provide all tackle needed, whether we fish for bass, crappie, or bream? The answer is yes; I provide top-of-the-line tackle and gear. Does the customer pay for the live bait for a bass trip? Yes, the customer is responsible for all live bait costs. Is it possible to fish for several different species in one trip, such as live bait for bass and then jig for crappie? Yes, it can be done, but I have found that through my 20+ years of guiding, a full day of fishing is best; anything less, you’ll feel rushed. Do I offer a fish cleaning service? Yes, I will clean and bag your catch for a fee. Do I offer any discounts? Yes, I offer Veteran and one-person discounts. Do I work with a local hotel that offers my customers a discount? My customers can receive a deep discount with a top hotel in Okeechobee.

The areas on the lake that have been producing both bass and crappie, starting on the north end, are parts of Kings Bar, Buckhead Ridge area, Tin House, and Indian Praire, and down towards Dyess Ditch. On the west end, there are parts in the Monkey box, the north/west side of Dupree Bar, some areas on the Shoal, and down to the blue hole area. Lures for bass are worms, swim baits, flipping/pitching, flukes, spinnerbaits (windier days), shallow

crankbaits along grass edges/pockets, and some top water. Staple colors are: Junebug, red shad, white, tilapia and bluegill patterns, green-pumpkin/ purple flake.

I hope this information helps you have a better, productive day fishing on the big O. To book a fun-filled, productive day on the water, call me at 863-228-7263. Check out my website for more information at www. southfloridabassfishing.com. Thank you to my Sponsors: Mercury, Toho Marine, Bullet Weights, Gill, BnM Poles, Real Magic, Navionics, Rapala, Lews, G-Loomis, Gene Larew, and Pradco Brands.

The art of the release in Archery has always been a critical point of accuracy. When shooting an arrow, every shot has to be duplicated the same way as the last for repeatable accurate shooting. To get this proper technique nailed down there’s been several advancements through the years to gain that perfect release.

There even some that work on pressure or rotation of the release to release the string. You get the choice of what flavor works better for you and what you’ll feel more confident with.

When archery first started, most people shot traditionally, long bow and recurves. When, shooting these bows, they shot with their fingers on the string, pulling back to their face, and then letting go of the string, hence finger shooting. That in itself took skill because the string would roll off your fingers differently every shot. So the original archers would shoot a lot and finally get down that repeatable release that would be accurate for them but since

Release Aids

those times things have changed, they would start wearing gloves to help with finger pinch. They would start making tabs with calf hair, so the string would slide off effortlessly, then gradually evolving into a mechanical release.

As Archery started getting more advanced so did all of its equipment, including the release. Taking the finger shooting out of the equation and adding a mechanical device, aided in a lot less mistakes. Mechanical release aids are hands-down, more repeatable which then with a good form is more accurate. In the beginning stages of the mechanical release, it was very crude but as machining got better, so did the technology within the release. They’ve gotten so advanced that you can take a release now and set it to the exact way that you would like it to release. Custom fitting to your way of executing makes the release even easier to master then Intern makes you more accurate.

Today there are several types of releases some have wrist straps that you use your index finger to pull the trigger. Others you hold in your hand and press a thumb button you fire the release. There even some that work on pressure or rotation of the release to release the string. You get the choice of what flavor works better for you and what you’ll feel more confident with.

Archery is about accuracy and a release aid is one of the first steps to attain that! If you need any help finding what’s the right one for you come by the shop or give us a call. We here at Skull Hill Archery will walk you through all the steps and preferences to make sure your next shot is released with ease!!

FULL SERVICE PRO SHOP

We are a fully stocked Pro shop for all your archery needs. Including consigned and new bows.

• 20 yard indoor range •

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• Knowledgable bow techs •

The long-standing partnership between the Ridge Ranger Volunteer Program and The Nature Conservancy (TNC) has been instrumental in advancing conservation efforts at Tiger Creek Preserve. Over the past several months, our monthly workdays have achieved significant progress. In December and January, volunteers concentrated on improving firebreaks and removing outdated boundary fences at one of TNC’s smaller satellite sites.

These workdays have been a tremendous success, with 15-20 people joining forces on each occasion—a collaboration between Ridge Rangers, TNC volunteers, and members from other conservation organizations. The team tackled various tasks, including felling trees and clearing dense vegetation using handsaws, brush cutters, and weed whackers. Volunteers worked in teams of three, with oneperson operating equipment while the others cleared the area, ensuring the firebreaks were effectively maintained.

This essential work directly supports the upcoming prescribed burns TNC plans to conduct throughout the year. By clearing overgrown vegetation from the firebreaks, the team has enabled larger equipment to access the area, paving the way for safer and more efficient controlled burns. The dedication and hard work of all the volunteers have been critical to the continued success of conservation efforts at Tiger Creek Preserve, and we look forward to furthering this vital partnership in the months to come.

— Ridge Rangers and FWC biologists plan to continue this work at Carter Creek through March.

For more information about volunteering for these workdays, please contact Jonathan Foligno at Jonathan.Foligno@myfwc.com.

Enjoy a Hunt of a Lifetime

Located on 2,000 acres of Florida bays, pines, palmettos, and oaks, outside the small town of Lake Placid, the Lightsey Family Ranch is perfect for the avid hunter and outdoorsman. Owner and lifelong hunter, Lee Lightsey, offers you to a one-of-a-kind hunting experience, including wild hog, quail, pheasant, turkey, deer, and alligator hunts. During your hunt you are welcome to stay at our lodge which features room for up to 28 guests, a large lobby with a true old Florida feel, and a full time Chef ready to prepare your meals.

Capt. Dave Stephens

REPORT & FORECAST

Well, folks, we made it through another winter. This one sent more cool weather our way than we usually get. We actually saw snow in North Florida this year and several days of temps that didn't get above 60 degrees here in SW Florida. The good news is that we are coming into March, which normally means we are done with winter. I wouldn't be surprised if we don't get hit with another cold front. Mother Nature seems to always get the last laugh.

The warmer water temps will wake the snook from this cooler winter. These guys have been laying low in the deeper water for the last couple of months. Places like the deep residential canals are always great places to locate early spring snook. If you're able to locate some live bait, remember to fish slowly. It's been a while since these guys have been feeding heavily, and the metabolism might take a while to get fired up. If the snook doesn't want to cooperate, try fishing some of the flats for trout. The warmer water generally gets these guys in the feeding mood. Baits such as shrimp and live bait under a popping cork get the job done. With the water warming, fishing will begin to pick up gradually. We just went through a colder-than-normal winter, so a little patience may be needed.

— Capt. Dave Stephens 941-916-5769 | www.backbayxtremes.com

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55 YEARS

COLLECTING LURE

SBy Doug Williams

Sam Griffin

amuel Ashbury Griffin was born on January 5, 1937, on a houseboat near Clewiston, Florida. At the young age of 7, Sam was helping his father with his commercial fishing operation, fishing the lake whenever he could, and, at the age of 12, Sam was guiding fishermen on the “Big O” by himself.

Sam’s family built Uncle Joe’s Fish Camp, so when commercial fishing was outlawed on lake Okeechobee, Sam and his brother Richard devoted a lot of their time to it’s operation. Hosting fishermen and duck hunters, Sam loved sharing his knowledge of the lake, and his growing skill at catching big bass.

During the 1970’s, Sam’s ambitious venture into sugar farming failed, which prompted him to get into the fishing tackle business. He purchased Ol’ Ben’s Baits of Shreveport, Louisiana, and began to make his own lure bodies. His original offerings included Ol’ Line Sides (a variation of Heddon’s Zaragossa walking bait), and Hobo (a variation of a bait Sam was making for another company). His 1980 business card read, “Griffin LuresManufacturer of Sam’s Baits”.

Over the subsequent 9 years, Sam created several new lures such as Sam’s Woody, Sammy Shad, Sam’s Club, Pop’n Sam, Sugarwood Spoon, and Salty Pop. Sam also incorporated impressive innovations into this lure designs such as foil, realistic paint patterns, water resistant paint finishes.

Sam’s work caught the attention of Phil Jensen of Luhr Jensen & Sons (Hood River, Oregon), and after a brief visit with Phil, Sam sold his business

to Luhr Jensen & Sons. After the sale, Sam redesigned several lures for Phil’s company, and also created new lures such as the Jerk’n Sam, Nippin’ Sam, Lil’ Chris, Bass Baffler, and Wobble Pop. After a few years, Sam grew tired of the travel required by his relationship with Luhr Jensen & Sons, and he decided to restart his own lure manufacturing business in Moore Haven under the Custom Lures by Sam label.

A few of the most well known lures Sam sold under that label include the Lil’ Richard, Offset Sam, and a line of baits called “The Naturals”, which featured coatings of western diamondback rattlesnake skin covered in clear plastic. Through his guide business (Legends Guide Service), Sam loved teaching his clients how to use those lures to catch big bass.

Sam was a simple man who loved Lake Okeechobee, loved catching big bass, and loved teaching anyone about both. His volunteer work made significant contributions to conservation of the Big O, and he was definitely a legend in his time.

If you would like to learn more about Sam Griffin, feel free to contact me via text or telephone at 305-926-7526.

— If you would like to learn more about Bagley lures, feel free to contact me via text or telephone @ 305-926-7526.

ASK RED

By Don Norton

How does a Cold Front affect Bass and Crappie during the spawn?

This is a great question and one that I have researched intensively over the past 50 years. When a cold front is approaching, both crappie and bass feed heavier than usual, sensing there may be a scarcity of food coming. When the cold front arrives, they appear to “shut Down.” Similarly, if they are in the process of spawning, they will often stop and return to a deeper water sanctuary.

In Highlands County this past December, we had very mild weather, allowing bass and crappie to come in shallow and begin their spawning rituals. Then, January arrived with brutal cold fronts that dropped the water temperature considerably, forcing the fish off the beds and back into deeper water. This cold front period lasted for the better part of a month. Finally, when February arrived, the weather improved, the water temperature increased, and the crappie and the bass moved back in shallow to resume their spawn.

So, what happened to the eggs they were carrying back in December? Will those fish still spawn? The answer is yes, in most cases. It’s not unusual for fish to be driven off their beds by cold fronts, and in most cases, they will keep coming back in to spawn and eventually lay their eggs.

However, if the duration of the cold front or cold period is long enough, the fish may simply absorb the eggs into their system and skip the annual spawn. This doesn’t happen often, but it does happen in extended periods of unstable weather.

Remember, crappies and bass are cold-blooded creatures, so they’re comfortable in 60 and even 50-degree water. The challenge this past January wasn’t the fact that the water was cold; it had more to do with the high number of cold fronts and the changes in barometric pressure that pushed the fish out to deeper water.

January 25, 2025 Tournament

On a very cold and breezy Saturday morning in Sebring, Florida, 39 teams met at Istokpoga Park to compete in the “make-up” bass tournament, initially scheduled in 2024 but canceled due to severe weather conditions.

Kevin Vertesch and Bobby Lukacs won the event, weighing 21 pounds and 3 ounces. A surprising distance away, Josh Shugars and Axel Riley's team claimed second place with a total weight of 16 pounds and 12 ounces. Chuck Webb took third place honors with 12 pounds and fourteen ounces.

The weights in this tournament demonstrate the challenges each angler faced in light of the cold front, wind, and generally harsh weather conditions.

It’s rare to see third place at less than 13 pounds.

Roy Williams and Maurice Skinner took fourth place with 10.13 pounds, followed closely by Ray Burdine with 10.7 pounds. Tom McGinnis and Dave Maurice rounded out the top six teams with 10.4 pounds.

The big bass for the event weighed 7.5 pounds and was weighed in by the Vertesch and Lukacs team. The next tournament will be held on Saturday, February 8th, 2025.

Updates from Hunter Brousseau

Well, the fish are in full swing of spawning—pressure on the lakes is at an all-time high, and our daylight hours are getting longer

My traveling schedule starts at the beginning of this month on Lake Pickwick Lake in Alabama, and when the month ends, I will be on Dale Hollow Lake in Tennessee.

I am not sure what to expect because these lakes are both new to me, but I have accomplished catching big smallmouth. I look forward to the challenges and the great learning experiences.

When pursuing a dream of fishing tournaments at a higher level, a person must be versatile at techniques, tackle, and species such as smallmouth, largemouth, and spotted bass. While Florida offers some awesome bass fishing, it mainly involves shallow bodies of water and finding fish on weeds and sometimes brush piles. My out-of-state tournaments are on big waters that many tournaments are held on and teach me ledge fishing, humps, rocks, lots of wood as well as docks, bluffs, and plenty of dams.

I encourage all youth anglers to keep learning and keep pushing themselves beyond their limits and comfort zones because challenges teach us valuable lessons in this sport. If you feel there are a couple of baits you are not good at fishing, go out one day and only bring those baits.

Thank Mr. Don Norton, for allowing me to share my thoughts and comments with you all each month. I would also like to thank all my sponsors for standing behind me and believing in me.

Thank you to everyone who always shares kind words of encouragement with me. As always, follow me on my webpage, hunterbrousseau.com.

Tight lines everyone

1st Place Kevin Vertesch and Bobby Lukacs | 01-25-25

Place Josh Shugars and

By Brandon Tourigny

FLORIDA’S CHAIN PICKEREL

FWC Applauds Governor’s Recommended Budget for Prioritizing Florida’s Natural Resources

Recommendations include $30 million to Restore Apalachicola’s Oyster Habitat, $10 Million for Shooting Sports Facilities, and $10 million for Artiﬁcial Reefs

• Restoring Apalachicola Bay Oysters:

• Investing in Florida’s Arti cial Reefs: e Focus on Fiscal Responsibility Budget provides $10 million to support additional reefs across Florida’s coastlines.

Amendment Summer” tax holiday on rearms and ammunition. Additionally, the budget provides $9 million to manage FWC’s wildlife management areas.

FWC’s mission is to manage sh and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the bene t of the people. To learn more about FWC, visit MyFWC.com.

SPRING SHAD: IT’S MARCH MADNESS

I’ve been incredibly blessed to !sh with some of the best anglers on the planet, guiding me through my journey. To complete that journey, I always keep a couple of rods in my truck, ready to !sh farm ponds, lakes, and rivers during my travels as a Boat Li US salesman. It brings me back to my roots.

Last month marked my 64th birthday, and I !nd myself enjoying the simple !shing of my youth more and more. Don’t get me wrong—I still love a gag grouper or wahoo bite like Peter loved our Lord—but I also love catching whatever is in season. March can be a slow month for nearshore and o shore !shing, making it the perfect time to switch focus to hickory and white (American) shad in our rivers.

Tim Barefoot

their birth. eir migration mirrors that of Paci!c salmon, using an innate

learning their seasons over the years. Hickory shad arrive !rst—smaller but plentiful—making them perfect for introducing kids to !shing with non-stop action. When the larger white shad show up, it’s game on. ese !sh pull hard in the cold water, !ghting until the moment you unhook them.

I strongly recommend mashing down the barbs on your hooks to make dehooking easier. Let’s be honest—most anglers aren’t eating shad, so reducing injury before release just makes sense. Also, always wear eye protection when !shing for these powerful !sh. A jig popping free near the boat can come ying back at the angler, as my son learned the hard way in a recent trip to the James River.

ese !sh are truly amazing. ey leave the coastal rivers of the eastern U.S., migrate to Nova Scotia, take a hard right into deep waters, then journey back south to spawn in the rivers of

GPS to !nd their way home. ey travel in vast schools, surviving intense predation, just to return to their spawning grounds.

Knowing this, I position myself to take full advantage of this mass migration. I !sh for shad in Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina,

FISHING IS BETTER IN

White shad will be in rivers all the way down to Florida this month, so if you’re looking for a fun !ght on light tackle, now is the time. Check out my YouTube channel for the tackle and techniques I use to catch these childhood favorites. And, as always, take plenty of videos of your kids—they’ll cherish those memories later in life.

For more from Tim Barefoot, visit barefootcatsandtackle.com and check out his YouTube channel.

May 9th & 10th, 2025

Online Registration: MothersDayDolphinTournament.com

Captain’s Meeting

Liechty Marine

Friday May 9th - 6pm to 7pm

Lines In: Saturday, May 10 - 7:30am

Lines Out: Saturday, May 10 - 3:30pm

Weigh-In

Curly’s Co ee

Saturday, May 10th - 3:30pm to 6pm

Awards Banquet

Marathon Yacht Club

Saturday, May 10th - 7pm

Sunday Honor

A PRO FISHING A BIG WORM FOR SPAWNING BASS

From February through April, bass ood the shallows to spawn, creating an exciting opportunity for anglers to catch monster !sh. While various techniques can be e ective, !shing with a big worm consistently tempts big, wary females. is method has proven successful nationwide, not just in the South.

Fishing a worm may not be the most thrilling technique, but it allows for a slow, precise presentation—ideal for enticing cautious bass. e key is patience and targeting highpercentage areas where these !sh are likely holding.

One e ective technique is casting a Texasrigged stick bait. Many anglers waste time on unproductive water, but focusing on isolated cover—small patches of grass, pads, wood, or rock structures—maximizes success. A 6” worm in darker colors like black-and-blue works well, paired with a 1/16 oz or 1/8 oz weight for a natural presentation. Given the thick cover, 17-20 lb uorocarbon is ideal for strength and stealth.

Another productive method is retrieving a big speed worm. is subtle, vibrating motion excites bass and helps locate !sh before slowing down for precision tactics. In stained water, darker shades like June bug work best, while

TYLER WOOLCOTT

green pumpkin with ake is ideal for clear water. A 1/8 oz to 1/4 oz weight with 15-17 lb uorocarbon balances presentation and control.

e wacky rig is highly e ective in shallow water, particularly for pressured bass. is weightless presentation targets isolated cover, making it a deadly !nesse option. A 10-15 lb uorocarbon leader on a spinning setup provides the necessary balance of stealth and strength. As with other worm techniques, darker colors suit stained water, while natural tones excel in clear conditions.

Flipping a worm is less stealthy but allows precise bait placement in thick cover, such as pad !elds, wood, or dense grass. is method is excellent for working through cover quickly while thoroughly breaking down key sections. Using large Senko-style baits and braided line ensures maximum strength. Weight selection varies from 3/8 oz to 3/4 oz, depending on cover density. Slowing down and targeting overlooked spots can set you apart from other anglers.

Rod and reel choices remain fairly consistent across these techniques. For casting and ipping, a 7’6” medium-heavy to heavy action rod, such as the 13 Fishing Omen Series, paired with a high-speed baitcasting reel like the Concept

A 7:5:1, ensures control and power. For wacky rigs, a 7’3” medium-heavy spinning rod with a quality reel like the 13 Fishing Axum provides sensitivity and strength.

ese big worm techniques have helped me land giants during the spawn, and I hope they do the same for you. Whether !shing Florida’s grass beds or rocky northern structures, these methods are time-tested and e ective. Get out there this spring and hook into some monster bass!

Tyler Woolcott is a professional tournament angler and guide. Check out his website at www.tylerwoolcott shing.com.

A Legend in Every Blade

The Legacy of the Damascus Steel Spiral Dirk Dagger

In the misty Scottish Highlands, where mountains meet shimmering lochs, the dirk dagger has been a symbol of heritage and honor for centuries. Originating in the medieval battles and clan rivalries, these daggers were not just weapons but treasured heirlooms passed through generations.

One stormy night, a young warrior named Ewan was called to the forge by his grandfather, Duncan, a revered blacksmith. “Ewan,” he began, “our clan’s strength lies not only in our courage but in the blades we wield. Tonight, you will learn the art of crafting a dirk that will carry our legacy forward.”

Ewan selected premium Damascus steel, layering it over 242 times to create a blade with intricate, swirling patterns reminiscent of ancient Highland rivers. Each fold whispered stories of battles won and lost, of honor and sacriﬁce. He crafted a classic spear point blade with a ¾ tang for enhanced strength and balance, ensuring it stood the test of time and combat.

The handle was crafted from solid Micarta, a material as resilient as the Scottish spirit. Adorned with stainless steel and brass ﬁle work, the spacers and guard shimmered like northern stars. The rounded pommel provided perfect balance and a textured grip, making it feel like an extension of Ewan’s hand.

As dawn broke, Ewan held the completed dirk in his hands. Measuring 12 inches overall, with a 7-inch blade, it was more than a weapon; it was a tribute to his ancestors and a beacon of his clan’s legacy.

Ewan’s dirk became legendary, said to cut through the strongest armor, with patterns holding the essence of the Highlands. Today, the Damascus Spiral Dirk Knife stands as a pinnacle of craftsmanship, a modern marvel carrying the spirit of ancient Scottish warriors. It is a legacy reborn, ready to be part of your collection, where every inch tells a story of dedication, tradition, and excellence.

Embrace the legend. Hold the history. Own the Damascus Spiral Dirk Knife today for just $99 plus S&H when using special offer code CA5MDK at checkout. This offer is limited to the ﬁrst 1,200 orders so be sharp and call up today!

Speciﬁcations:

Overall Length: 12”

Blade Length: 7”

Blade Material: Premium Damascus steel, layered over 242 times Tang: ¾ tang for enhanced performance

Handle Material: Solid Micarta with stainless steel and brass ﬁle, worked spacers and guard Pommel: Rounded for balance and ergonomic grip

Damascus Spiral Dirk Dagger Knife

Was - $249

Now Only - $99 (plus S&H)

Use o er code: CA5MDK

*California residents please call 1-800 733 8463 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product.

Genuine Leather Sheath