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EDITOR : Nick Carter • editorial@coastalanglermagazine.com WEBMASTER : Dmitriy Pislyagin • webmaster@coastalanglermagazine.com ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: Corporate Headquarters info@coastalanglermagazine.com • 888-800-9794 BIG BEND : Mike McNamara • (850) 510-7919 • captmike@coastalanglermagazine.com BREVARD : David String • (321) 684-5888 • dstring@coastalanglermagazine.com DAYTONA/NEW SMYRNA BEACH : Don Meadows • (407) 960-2340 • donm@coastalanglermagazine.com FLORIDA KEYS : Ed Gocher • (305) 587-9101 • ed@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT LAUDERDALE : Gene Dyer • (954) 680-3900 • gene@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT MYERS : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER MIAMI : Scott Deal • (561) 945-6999 • scott@coastalanglermagazine.com Monica Isaza-Deal • (561) 945-8899 • monica@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER ORLANDO : Phillip & Giselle Wolf • (407) 790-9515 • phillip@coastalanglermagazine.com LAKELAND & SUMTER : Mary Flaitz • (352) 598-4219 • maryf@coastalanglermagazine.com NAPLES : Mike Weber • (414) 531-4172 • mikew@coastalanglermagazine.com NC FLORIDA/NATURE COAST : Cary & Lynn Crutchfield • (352) 372-4237 • crutch@coastalanglermagazine.com NE FLORIDA : Danny Patrick • (904) 742-4696 • danny@coastalanglermagazine.com OKEECHOBEE : Ken Gabryel • (863) 532-3671 • keng@coastalanglermagazine.com PANAMA CITY/FORGOTTEN COAST : Randy Cnota • (229) 834-7880 • randyc@coastalanglermagazine.com PALM BEACH COUNTY : Barbara Ryan • (561) 373-8040 • barbara@coastalanglermagazine.com SARASOTA : Phil Prevoir • (239) 257-4684 • pprevoir@coastalanglermagazine.com TAMPA BAY : Chuck Atkins • (239) 464-5153 • chuck@coastalanglermagazine.com TREASURE COAST : Misti & Gary Guertin • (772) 285-6850 • treasurecoast@coastalanglermagazine.com flahama@coastalanglermagazine.com
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Catching Winter Cobia In The Keys By John Steinhorst
F
ebruary through April offers some of the most productive fishing of the year in the Florida Keys. An amazing variety of migratory fish species travel to the Keys as cold water temperatures push them south in the Gulf of Mexico and on the east coast. The most convenient place to base a Keys fishing adventure is directly out of Marathon, which comfortably rests in the middle of this tropical island chain. Marathon encompasses a unique collection of islands, creating the ideal boating and family destination with access to both ocean and gulf waters but far enough from the crowded streets of Key West. Capt. Chris Morrison, a 20-year Keys veteran who guides out of Marathon, enjoys hooking excited anglers up with these hungry migrating species, which include record-breaking cobia, king and Spanish mackerel, trophy sailfish and several species of jacks. Versatility is the name of the game, and options are abundant. Most often the best plan is to just decide where you want to fish, from the immense Gulf or blue ocean waters to the many reefs and wrecks surrounding the islands. Then be ready for anything when you get there. There are several techniques that work for each species, and Morrison utilizes a wide variety to keep his 8
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Temple Fork Outfitters’ Gary Loomis Inshore boat, although cobia sometimes swim with bull sharks and rays. Start drifting live shrimp back Series rods bending and his clients smiling. Live bait and jigs are most productive to with light monofilament leader and small hooks, ensure positive results. Pinfish and live shrimp and you are bound to get action from one of are among the easiest to obtain, since most local several species of snapper. If you start getting bit bait shops carry them. Deep jigs, such as butterfly off clean, add a piece of leader wire and you will types, and ¼- to 1-ounce bucktails are essential likely get hooked into a cero or king mackerel. to carry in your arsenal. For catching cobia, If you decide to fish the bay or gulf side of the present the pinfish on ocean-side wrecks and Keys island chain, you might want to anchor reefs as well as Gulf waters from 15 to 100 feet in 10 to 15 feet of water and hang that chum using the same rig for grouper down deep. Limit bag for landing Spanish mackerel. Head out to is one per person with a 33-inch size minimum. deeper Gulf waters and expect more cobia, king On sunny days, Morrison likes to spot cobia mackerel, and goliath and gag grouper. The with his polarized sunglasses from the tower of wintertime fishing action in the Florida Keys will his SeaVee boat above the reef line or in blue be sure to heat up your reel. If you need an expert light-tackle fishing water when a color change edge is present. When you see a cobia on the surface, cast the bait in guide, Capt. Chris Morrison has guided anglers front with no weight and at least 60-pound to more than 100 world records and received monofilament leader. Wire is usually necessary a Lifetime Achievement Award from the on your jigs as king, Spanish, and cero mackerel International Game Fishing Association. Visit are numerous throughout these prime fishing www.captchris.com for more info. grounds. John Steinhorst has contributed to many If you do not have a guide, the reef line on the ocean side from 25 to 40 feet is a good place publications during the last 20 years and can to start. Anchor and hang a chum bag over the be contacted at www.JohnSteinhorst.wix.com/ IslandMedia. side with ground-up frozen baitfish. Chum brings the For more Cobia fishing in the Keys, go to party to the back of your COASTALANGLERSALTWATER.COM
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Captain Fantastic.
How have so many of Marathon’s light-tackle guides achieved super-hero status? Because whether it’s tailers in the shallows, migrating tarpon out front or snook and redfish out back, our professional captains come to the rescue by putting you onto some amazing angling action. fla-keys.com/marathon 1.800.262.7284 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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RodsandReels Product Review AVET REELS SXJ 6/4 RAPTOR Since 1999, Avet Reels has been bringing to the market revolutionary reel designs that set the standard for performance. Their innovative SXJ 6/4 Raptor lever drag casting reel features Avet’s patented dual carbon fiber drag system, which produces twice the drag of the original Avet reels. The powerful system features adjustable strike pre-set and a strike stop button to prevent accidental advancement. The reel’s one-piece frame is precision machined 6061 T-6 marine grade aluminum with stainless steel components and is anodized for superior corrosion resistance. An offset machined handle arm reduces center-line profile and cranking wobble and is capped with a comfortable soft-touch handle knob. The two-speed transmission has a user-friendly shifting mechanism. Avet’s silent dog and gear anti-reverse system and M.C. Cast adjustable magnetic anti-backlash cast control system, both patented, are some of the most innovative and reliable in the industry. The SXJ 6/4 Raptor has nine stainless ball bearings, an alarm clicker and a light, narrow spool designed for optimal jig casting efficiency and less line leveling on the retrieve. It’s proudly made in the U.S.A.
CANYON REELS EX-80 TWO SPEED TROLLING REEL In case you hadn’t heard, Canyon Reels has redesigned its powerful EX-80 Two Speed Trolling Reel to give anglers the edge when pulling spreads for huge fish. The original EX-80 was extensively tested and matched up very well against the giants off the Northeast coast. When the captains made suggestions, Canyon listened, and the result is an even better EX-80, which features multiple upgrades that make it smoother, and easier to use. The EX-80 is a monster reel. It boasts a max drag of 105 pounds at strike and more than 155 pounds at full drag. A pre-set feature allows for accurate drag settings with an easy one-touch shifter. Upgrades include additional harness lugs that provide better balance control, an all new double drag system for drag runs that are even smoother than the original, and an oversized T-bar handle for additional cranking power. Several other improvements have also been made to increase the durability of this already remarkable reel. The end result is an incredibly smooth and user-friendly reel with the power to stop any fish in the ocean.
WWW.AVETREELS.NET
WWW.CANYONREELS.COM
ENIGMA HPT TITANIUM CASTING RODS
JP ROSS BEAVER MEADOW
Enigma Fishing is raising the bar on performance, while lowering the price point. Every aspect of their HPT Titanium Casting Rods were designed with extreme attention to detail. These high-performance tournament level rods are designed with premium, ultra-light Japanese Toray Carbon proprietary blend blanks. The HPT rods were designed and tested with input from professional anglers such as three-time Bassmaster Elite Series Angler of the Year, Aaron Martens. Enigma Fishing has customized and precision balanced each individual HPT rod to be ultra functional, exceptionally beautiful and tailored to exacting actions and specifications demanded by today’s tournament anglers. All rods feature premium American Tackle components, including the multiaward winning MicroWave Line Control System, which increases casting distance and accuracy. The blank-through reel seats offer finger-to-blank contact for unparalleled sensitivity and incredible ergonomics and palmable comfort, while further reducing weight as well. Premium cork grips balance out each rod perfectly! Enigma Fishing’s new HPT series features a sleek black rod blank, cork handles, stylish purple wraps and chrome accents. Delivering technique-specific performance second-to-none, the all-new HPT series raises the bar for all others!
WWW.ENIGMAFISHING.COM
MUD HOLE TURNKEY INSHORE ROD KIT
The JP Ross Beaver Meadow is a fly rod meticulously designed to fish the beaver dams and plunge pools of small trout streams where an 11-inch fish is a trophy. That’s not to say this rod can’t handle an 18-inch brown on big water, but blue lines are where it shines. It is a short, sensitive rod with the feel needed for the gentlest of nibbles but enough power to reach out 50-plus feet with a hopper-dropper rig. The Beaver Meadow is available in a 5’ 2/3-weight, two-piece and a 6’6” 2/3-weight four-piece for fishing small streams with wet flies and dry flies. The 6’6” also has the ability to cast medium weighted streamers. The 7’6” 4-weight four-piece, the 7’9” 3-weight fourPhoto by Draper White piece, and the 8’0” 5-weight four-piece all have the shorter length required for tight quarters but the backbone to land larger fish and cast streamers and multi-fly rigs. JP Ross rods are custom-made by hand in Upstate New York. Each rod is made to order, so the details are exquisite, and components can be customized from the grip and reel seat to the guides and thread color. The Technology used to achieve this awesome balance of sensitivity and power is breakthrough technology, the joining of carbon fiber and fiberglass that JP Ross calls Carbon Silica Hybrid interface. It makes a beautiful casting and wonderfully sensitive rod.
WWW.JPROSSFLYRODS.COM
Mud Hole Custom Tackle is offering amazing value with its inshore fishing rod building kit. This turnkey kit includes everything you need to build your own custom inshore trout and redfish fishing rod. The kit features the extremely popular and versatile SJ842 rod blank. This 7’0” medium-light power rod features a fast action for throwing soft plastics and topwater lures at wary flats fish. Along with the blank, the kit includes a matched guide set, handle kit and everything from the CRB Wrapper, a CRB rod dryer and ProPaste and ProKote Rod Finish along with all the tools needed to build your own custom rod. This is a great set for the avid fisherman who wants to take his or her fishing to the next level. To get started custom building your own high quality rod, visit www.mudhole.com and check out all our Turn Key Kit options or simply Google: Mud Hole Turnkey.
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RodsandReels Product Review OKUMA KOMODO SS BAITCAST REELS
The original Komodo 350 size baitcast reel has been the recipient of tremendous accolades. It is considered an extremely tough reel and an excellent value. For 2017, the Komodo family welcomes the Komodo SS, featuring a new 450 size and stainless steel drive system. The Komodo SS is built around a heavy-duty stainless steel main gear, pinion gear, drive shaft and spool shaft to deliver an internal foundation of unrelenting strength and corrosion-resistance. Komodo SS reels use rigid, machined aluminum frame and spool, aluminum side plates, high-output Carbonite drag system capable of a maximum drag output of 30 pounds, and updated 6-pin Velocity Cast Control System. Performance features include six or seven (depending upon size) stainless steel High Performance Bearings, plus roller bearing, for outstanding corrosionresistance. The synchronized level-wind system does not disengage for casting, which allows it to maintain alignment at all times and eliminated drag pressure spikes when using braided lines. Bait clickers are standard on all models. The Komodo SS series includes two sizes, 350 and 450. The 350 size includes a 6.4:1 gear ratio and maximum drag output of 25 pounds. There are four models in the 350 size. The 450-size Komodo is available in a 6.3:1 gear ratio and a hyperfast 7.1:1 ratio. Komodo SS series baitcast reels are covered by the Okuma 3-Year Limited Warranty.
WWW.OKUMAFISHING.COM
UGLY STIK BIGWATER SERIES Ugly Stik has refreshed its iconic Bigwater series with all-new Ugly Tuff saltwater guides and an updated look. Beginning with Ugly Tech construction, the Bigwater series maintains the toughness for which all Ugly Stiks are known. One-piece Ugly Tuff stainless steel guides eliminate insert pop-outs and provide durability and corrosion resistance for those harsh saltwater applications. The Bigwater series retains the traditional Ugly Stik Clear Tip design for more strength at the tip of the rod. Comfortable EVA handles and conventional reel seats give anglers a non-slip, comfortable grip no matter the conditions. The fly, standup, downrigger/dipsy diver, surf, spinning and casting models have also been upgraded to include a standard seven-year limited warranty. Four Bigwater spinning combos and two trolling combos for downrigger applications are also available. The combos feature a graphite spinning reel, available in sizes 50, 60 and 70, and have a durable aluminum spool. The reel featured on the Bigwater downrigger combos is a size 30 line counter round reel with a metal handle and power knob.
PENN SLAMMER III The Penn Slammer III, which won Best of Show in the saltwater reel category at iCast 2016, is the reintroduction of the heavy-duty reel that has become trusted by charter captains around the world. Slammer III reels feature a new IPX6 Sealed System, which keeps water out of the gear box and drag system in heavy spray and sea conditions. An updated Slammer Drag System now utilizes a proprietary Dura-Drag material. With the computer-controlled CNC gear technology system, the precision brass main, pinion and oscillation gears are individually machined for exact tolerances to provide the smoothest operation. Eight models of the Slammer III are available, ranging in size from 3500 to 10500 models. Gear ratios range from 6.2:1 with 37 inches of line retrieve on the smaller reels to 4.2:1 with 43 inches of line retrieve on the largest. Maximum drags start at 30lbs in the smaller models and run to 60lbs on the largest. The oversized reel handle grip gives the angler added control during the fight. The 3500 Slammer III is the smallest of the family weighing 13.9oz while the 10500 weighs 43.1oz.
WWW.PENNFISHING.COM
DANCO BAIT STIK Danco’s Bait Stik is the original rod and reel combo developed specifically for catching bait with a sabiki rig, and it is still the best. The rod in this combo is 7’3” and features two-piece construction with an extra-hard phenolic tip for superior strength and extreme sensitivity. Comfortable EVA grips and a gimbal butt with cover means anglers will be yanking bait from the water with ease. Anyone who has ever tried to store a sabiki rigs knows the frustration of attempting to keep them from becoming a tangled mess. With the Bait Stik, that is not a problem. While not in use, the sabiki rig can be safely and conveniently stored inside the rod, which is a huge plus. The combo comes with either a casting or spinning reel. The spinning reel comes with an anodized aluminum spool, a graphite body and rotor and an oversized eggshaped knob. The casting reel has an aluminum body and side covers, brass gearing and a star drag. Catching bait has never been so easy. When the bait tank is full, rinse everything down with fresh water, store the sabiki rig in the rod and forget about it. Look for the Danco Bait Stik in your tackle store.
WWW.SHAKESPEARE-FISHING.COM
OCEAN 2 RIVER TOURNAMENT COMBO
ZEBCO BIG CAT SERIES Zebco is launching an impressive offering of beefedup rods and reels called “Big Cat” to accommodate serious value-minded anglers who passionately pursue catfish. The spincast reels are built with a titanium nitride plated stainless steel spinnerhead to add durability and reduce friction. Big Cat XT conventional-style reels will likely be the top pick for the most avid trophy hunters from the Mississippi River to Santee Cooper and all waters in between. Two conventional reels will be offered. The Big Cat XT 30 conventional trolling reel will hold 455 yards of 30-pound test. The Big Cat XT 350 round baitcasting reel holds 200 yards of 20-pound test. Worth noting is that a headlamp handy for nighttime catfishing will be free to consumers who purchase rods and reels within the very affordable Big Cat and Big Cat XT series.
WWW.ZEBCO.COM
Ocean 2 River (O2R) Tournament spinning combos are designed to perform to the exacting standards of serious tournament anglers while standing up to the grueling conditions and treatment offered up by hard-core fishermen in the marine environment. The IM-7 fast action graphite rods come with Seaguide Atlas Performance aluminum oxide guides, comfortable cork split grips and a graphite reel seat with a cork inlay and cushioned stainless steel hoods. These rods combine strength with sensitivity and excellent casting power. They are available in medium and medium heavy weights to suit a range of line and lure weights. The reels feature a solid aluminum frame, graphite side covers and rotor and a double anodized aluminum spool to stand up to the saltwater environment. A 5.1:1 gear ratio is suitable for fishing a wide range of lures all day long without wearing out the angler’s wrists and hands. Stainless ball bearings and a comfortable oversized T-knob provide for longer casts, smoother drag runs and comfort while fighting fish. Look for the O2R combo and other fine Danco products in your tackle store.
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ON THE COVER
RHODAN INTRODUCES 72” SHAFT GPS GUIDED TROLLING MOTOR
Editor’s Note:
Each month, Coastal Angler Magazine and The Angler Magazine staff search our vast coverage area for photos that will grace our covers. With well over a million readers in diverse coastal and inland markets, our magazines strive for broad national appeal as well as local-level intelligence to put anglers on fish. The cover is different depending on which edition you, the reader, are holding. The following is a little information about this month’s covers.
COASTAL ANGLER MAGAZINE The Florida Keys, Marathon
FREE
BIG BEND EDITION
The February edition of Coastal Angler Magazine features a cover image of Capt. James Platt with a 35-pound cobia he landed onboard a SeaVee boat about 10 miles out from Marathon’s Tarpon Creek Marina on the ocean side of the Florida Keys. The photo was provided by Capt. Chris Morrison of Keys Light Tackle Fishing Charters, who Local was fishing with Platt when they caught a limit of cobia, along with king mackerel, mangrove snapper and grouper. Morrison uses medium-heavy, Gary Loomis-designed Inshore Series rods from Temple Fork Outfitters along with 30-pound test Cortland Master Braid line to handle cobia and many species he targets in winter months. Home to the world-famous Seven Mile Bridge, Marathon is a group of tropical islands perfectly situated in the middle of the Florida Keys island chain. This ideal boating and family destination offers easy access to the Atlantic Ocean, Florida Bay, Everglades and Gulf of Mexico waters for an amazing diversity. Wintertime in the Florida Keys means anglers see large numbers of migratory fish such as cobia, king and Spanish mackerel, wahoo, sailfish and blackfin tuna pushed down from colder northern waters. Marathon is an excellent destination to base your Keys vacation for an unforgettable adventure. See writer John Steinhorst’s article on winter and early spring fishing out of Marathon in this month’s issue. Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events
VOLUME 22 • ISSUE 265
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THE ANGLER MAGAZINE Ice Fishing On Golden Pond, New Hampshire
WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA EDITION
FREE
This month’s cover image for The Angler Magazine was taken by Chuck Fritz on the ice at Squam Lake in Holderness, New Hampshire. Old Timers might remember the 1981 movie “On Golden Pond.” It was filmed on Squam Lake, and the most interesting storyline in the film had to be the cantankerous Local character Norman’s obsession with catching a humongous rainbow trout named Walter. Squam Lake looks a lot different with a layer of ice over it than it does in the movie, which was shot in the summer. The fishing is still good, though. Just ask Tim Moore, the ice fishing guide who was photographed for the cover with a pretty yellow perch he caught through a hole in the ice. The ice fishing season on Squam and nearby Lake Winnipesaukee generally runs from January through March each year, and anglers target giant white perch and lake trout as well as smallmouth bass, crappie, sunfish and yellow perch. If there’s anyone out there who knows where Walter is hiding after all these years, it has to be Tim. See Tim’s story inside this months issue and check out his website at www.timmooreoutdoors.com. Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events
VOLUME 22 • ISSUE 264
F R A N C H I S E
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MERCURY MARINE’S VESSELVIEW MOBILE AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD
M
ercury Marine’s VesselView Mobile app is now available for free download on the App Store and Google Play in North America. Available for iOS and Android mobile devices, including smartphones and tablets, the VesselView Mobile app instantly provides users access to their boat’s SmartCraft digital data in the palm of their hand. The product recently won a prestigious IBEX innovation award. The VesselView Mobile module, which is needed to fully utilize the app, is available for purchase at participating Mercury Marine dealers, from the VesselView Mobile app or on www.vesselviewmobile.com. The product is compatible with all Mercury SmartCraftcapable engines built since 2003. One module supports single through quad engine applications. SmartCraft is a fully integrated suite of digital technologies, including marine gauges, sensors, vessel systems and computercontrolled features, giving users a higher level of control over their boat’s propulsion and electrical systems. Now, with Mercury Marine’s VesselView Mobile, users can see SmartCraft engine data right on the screen of their mobile device. The app also includes useful new features such as Fuel Information, Maintenance Reminders, Mapping, Performance Summary, and Fault Code Diagnostics. VesselView Mobile makes preparing for and spending a day on the water easier, safer 14
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and more enjoyable by letting users perform the following functions from their mobile device: • Connect to the SmartCraft data network in your boat from your iOS or Android mobile device via BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy 4.0) • See SmartCraft engine parameters like engine hours, fuel burn, water temperature, battery voltage, RPM, etc. (parameters available are specific to each engine family). • Get fault code diagnostic information so you know and understand if that fault is something to be addressed when you return to the dock, or is more urgent. • Fuel Management provides accurate fuel usage data along with fuel remaining plus indicates time and distance to empty when the user enters fuel added via the app. • Locate your nearest Mercury Marine dealer • Get points of interest information for your body of water, including fuel and restaurant locations, and more • Record a moment on the water for future reference • Access checklists associated with your boating lifestyle • Get maintenance reminders and access historical maintenance information logs. Mercury Marine’s VesselView Mobile app also provides users with a Web-based account that gives them and their preferred dealer app and module will be on display at the 2017 an even deeper connection to their boat. The Miami International Boat Show.
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Core Concepts Make
Ice Fishing Easier By Tim Moore
S
pending hours on a frozen lake isn’t easy. Your body works overtime just to stay warm. Then, add the activity level that often accompanies ice fishing, such as drilling or chiseling holes and chasing tip up flags, and it can be downright exhausting. The degree of difficulty extreme cold temperatures add to fishing is what keeps most people from trying ice fishing. While there is a ton of gear designed to make ice fishing easier, core concepts, such as efficiency and mobility go a long way to make ice fishing easy enough for even the most warm blooded people. When you strengthen your core muscles with exercise, you train the rest of your 16
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muscles to work in harmony, which leads to better balance and stability. The same can be said for ice fishing. Exercising core concepts on a regular basis not only improves technique and lure control, but ice fishing actually becomes easier. The hottest new lures and trending techniques might catch a few fish, but they do little to improve your ability as an angler, especially when everything is frozen. Efficiency is arguably the foundation of any core. A highly efficient ice angler accomplishes more tasks in a shorter amount of time, and therefore catches more fish. Being efficient means eliminating unnecessary steps. Fewer steps means more time fishing, and more time fishing means more fish caught. Every second you spend with your line out of the water is time spent not catching fish. Efficiency begins off the ice. There are many things you can do before you leave your house that will make you more efficient. Start by leaving equipment and lures you won’t need at home. If you’re going fishing for panfish and you have larger rods mixed in with panfish rods, you will have extra gear to deal with on the ice. It doesn’t seem like a big deal until you’re fishing in subzero temperatures and the rods you need get tangled with the rods you don’t need. Rigging multiple rods with different lures before you leave your house will also reduce steps on the ice. Then you can cycle through pre-rigged rods rather than tie new jigs in the cold, wind or snow. Have you ever seen the deck of a tournament bass angler’s boat? They have many rods rigged with different lures so they don’t have to re-tie while they are fishing. The same goes for ice fishing, especially when it’s freezing out. The work you do at home pays off on the ice, but there is more you can do while fishing to make things easier, such as putting gear back in its place when you’re not using it. Then when you want to move you have less equipment to put away. Sometimes we are so
excited to get fishing that we tend to lay gear on the ice when we are done using it rather than put it back where it belongs. By the time we decide to move there is gear all over the place, which makes moving harder. The Godfather of modern ice fishing Dave Genz always says, “If it’s easy you’ll do it.” Focus on ways to make everything easier and you will be more productive. The little things add up. Just as backpackers try to shave ounces off their packs to make hiking easier, successful ice anglers are always trying to shave off unnecessary tasks to make fishing easier. The equipment you use also contributes to your efficiency. A Vexilar sonar flasher removes a lot of the guesswork. Figuring out if there are fish under you and their depth could take hours without a flasher. A sonar flasher is easy to use. It will instantly show you the entire water column including the bottom, your jig, and anything else that shows up under you, such as a fish. All in real time! Clam Outdoors makes a number of items specifically designed to make certain tasks easier on the ice. Prices range from a few dollars into the $1,000 range. The simple lowcost products often make a big difference. The Clam Can allows you to carry bait in your pocket. Not a big thing, but it makes a huge difference when it’s cold. Rod Slicks keep ice rods from getting tangled, and Fish Trap shelters get you out of the cold quickly and allow you to move around easier. The parts all have a sum that equals success. Mobility is another important core element of ice fishing. Mobility allows you to cover more water, which allows you to put your lure in front of more fish. Think of ice fishing the same way you do when open water fishing. We rarely head out onto the water and cast in the same spot over and over again. Ice fishing is no different. Every hole you drill is a cast. Make more casts and you’ll catch more fish. If you make a lot of casts in an area and don’t catch anything, move to another area and repeat. Give yourself a time limit, and don’t stay in the same area if you’re not catching fish. Ice Fishing doesn’t have to be cold and difficult. Core concepts that make ice fishing easier also make it more fun. Establish a routine and it will become second nature. By constantly thinking of ways to strengthen your core, you make ice fishing easier. Before you know it, you will be catching more fish than ever before. And who doesn’t love catching more fish? Tim Moore is a full-time licensed fishing guide in New Hampshire. He owns Tim Moore Outdoors and the New England Ice Fishing Academy. For more information visit www. TimMooreOutdoors.com. For more Tim Moore, go to
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12/15/16 1:24 PM
FLORIDA
ENJOY THE MIAMI BOAT SHOW’S ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE
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or those seeking ultimate enjoyment at one of the world’s largest and greatest boat shows, the VIP Experience is the hot ticket for the 2017 Progressive Insurance Miami International Boat Show Feb. 16-20. In its second year at the iconic Miami Marine Stadium Park & Basin, the show will offer more boats, large yachts, marine product debuts, transportation options, dining and fun than ever before. There will be excitement for everyone, but those who prefer more of an upscale experience should treat themselves to the VIP Experience. With ticket packages ranging from $70 to $100 per day, guests will enjoy exclusive access to
the VIP Lounge aboard a 111-foot luxury yacht docked at Pier 9 among more than 100 of the biggest and most extravagant motor, cruising and super yachts ever displayed at the show. The VIP Experience includes upscale dining and beverage service, live music daily, an air conditioned indoor lounge, an open sky deck with stunning views, private restrooms, complimentary Wi-Fi and an array of complimentary services and luxury product displays. All of this comes on top of what the Progressive Insurance Miami International Boat Show is recognized for: a worldclass boat-show experience for more than 100,000 attendees and exhibitors. This year’s show will be the best ever. Organizers anticipate more than 1,300 new boats on display with more new model debuts than ever before. What’s more, the number of boats in-water is expanding to an estimated 550 boats and yachts— all located in the show’s state-of-the-art marina. From sport fishing boats and high performance boats, to personal watercraft and wake sport boats, family cruisers and luxury yachts, there is something for every lifestyle. The show will also once again offer sea trials, where shoppers can take boats out for a spin. This year, more boat exhibitors will participate, giving boat buyers a chance to test-drive a number of options. And be sure to come hungry and thirsty. A highlight of the 2017 show is an enhanced food and beverage program featuring more than 150 options ranging from luxe to casual fare. Whether you choose to come by water taxi, shuttle bus or car, the show offers seamless transportation to and from the show as well as ample and convenient parking options. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day of the show. Regular admission packages range from $25 to $100 for multiple days, and children younger than 15 are free. For more information, go to www.MiamiBoatShow.com. To learn more about last years boat show, go to
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AN AUTUMN SAIL STORY By Michael Landress
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e blasted through the Boynton Inlet on the first full day of fall and set lines in 33 fathoms near one of the many reefs just a short pelican’s glide offshore. It was ramp-to-reef in minutes for the five of us, Capt. Chris Lemieux, Carson, Jeff, Mike and his father-in-law, Joe. It’s one of the many perks we enjoy fishing out of Boynton Beach, also known as the Gateway to the Gulf Stream. Our goal this day was modest, to catch and release Florida’s premier game fish for our senior angler, Joe. During his 84 years, Joe had never battled a sailfish. Unfortunately, any hope of doing so on the reef was quickly trammeled by a school of ravenous rainbow runners that pillaged our lively baits at an astonishing rate. A relative of the greater amberjack, rainbows are feisty on hook and line, but offered no food value for the men of this vainglorious crew. We decided to run farther offshore into deeper water to hunt the harlequin green and yellow denizens of the deep—dolphin! After a short run on a flat
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sea, we arrived at a large patch of pelagic weed drifting in 800 feet of 86-degree water. Baitfish soon rained down upon the blue water after being violently wacked from a cozy dip net by the well-placed palm of our determined captain. After a few minutes, it became evident this seemingly perfect, floating asylum harbored zilch predators. Then, a dark silhouette suddenly appeared against the morning glare 50 feet from the bow of the Conch Cruiser. Shark or marlin I thought. “Sail, sail, sail!” we screamed like school boys. It was Florida’s fish, the sleek marauder that we sought earlier on the reef. As she laggardly cruised on the surface with sail raised, Chris pitched a live threadfin herring a few feet in front of her… a perfect cast. Enticed by the presentation, she gobbled the bait and the fight was on. Lit-up and furiously angry, she raced across the ocean at warp speed. Chris barked for Joe to take the rod, and the grizzled angler complied. After 20 arduous minutes, first mate Carson captured leader and the billfish was free. Underwater GOPRO footage indicated a successful release as her large symmetrical tail propelled her into the depths. There is no photographic evidence of Joe’s multiple naps later that day, but more importantly a fine and weary man was able to complete one of the items on his (chum) bucket list: dueling an autumn sail! For a great sailfish catch fight, go to
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and deep drop fishing for yelloweye snapper, blackfin snapper, queen snapper and mystic grouper. Even when the east winds are howling in the spring and summer months, comfortable fishing conditions exist on the leeward side of the island. When the wind lays down, The Bridge is a short 16-mile run from the marina. The Bridge runs from the southern tip of Eleuthera to the northern tip of Little San Salvador. It’s a 9-mile underwater ledge that averages depths of 200 feet between the two islands with drop offs to 800 feet on the Exuma Sound side and 3,000 feet on the Atlantic Ocean side. Big wahoo, dolphin and yellowfin tuna can be expected here, and you never know when a blue marlin will show up in your spread. The resort offers world class accommodations in the form of 14 two-story, luxury villas with views of both the sunrise and sunset. There is also a well-stocked ship’s store, a new waterfront restaurant, bar and swimming pool. The marina is a state-of-the-art, Blue Flag awarded facility with average depths of 12 to 14 feet that is flushed on every tide making the waters crystal clear. All slips have 30 and 50 amp power and water with dockage for vessels up to 200 feet. There’s a full fuel dock with both gasoline and diesel. Pump out services are also available. Getting here is relatively easy, as there are several carriers with daily flights to and from Nassau. From Nassau, it’s a very short flight to Rock Sound, which is just 30 miles from the cape. Both Bahamas Air and Pineapple Air offer service to and from Rock Sound several days a week. Watermakers Air offers direct service from Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport to and from Rock Sound four times per week. From Rock sound, a cab ride will cost you about $70. There are also car rentals available. The Stuart Sailfish Club, in its 75th year, has announced a Flotilla to Cape Eleuthera for May 5 to May 14. Fifteen member boats have already signed up. If you would like to participate in the Flotilla to the cape, you must be a member of the club. Family memberships are available for just $200. For more information, visit the club’s website at www.stuartsailfishclub.com. For more information on the Cape Eleuthera Resort and Marina, go to www. capeeleuthera.com.
ESCAPE TO THE CAPE
T
hose living in South Florida are fortunate to have Bimini and West End, Grand Bahama a short boat ride from the shoreline. But there’s an undiscovered jewel of the Out Islands within reach for those looking for something more. Just 56 miles southeast of Nassau, lies the Cape Eleuthera Resort and Marina. From bonefish on the flats to blue marlin on The Bridge, this special place is no less than paradise. Just outside the marina in the Exuma Sound, you will find some of the best yellowtail snapper fishing on the planet, consistent gaffer dolphin action
For more fishing at Cape Eleuthera Resort and Marina, go to
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SWIMMING WITH SHARKS
can systematically decimate their food sources by feeding so much in one area that they permanently impact the ability of that food source to regenerate. Sharks act as a regulatory body in these instances through their mere presence. Just by having a shark around, fish and other animals are forced to expand their hunting or grazing grounds and seek out food over larger areas, where their impact will be less dramatic. Sharks play such an integral role to the health of marine ecosystems that studies have found a decline in their populations results in a correlating decline of many commercially significant fish species, including those, like tuna, that are a favorite on our dinner plates. Without sharks in our local waters, we would not be able to enjoy the wide variety of fish species and marine animals that we take for granted. As anglers, there are easy ways to “fish friendly” Photo by Melissa Johnson • A scuba diver watches as two when it comes to sharks. If you’re fishing from shore, try Lemon Sharks swim by on a local reef. to keep the shark in water as you release it so they can maintain a constant flow of water through their gills. If very February at Pura Vida Divers, we dedicate a month to it’s hard to remove a hook from the shark, it’s better to cut the line than shedding light onto one of our favorite, but often overlooked, marine animals: sharks. As scuba divers and nature enthusiasts, we spend more time exerting yourself and stressing the animal. Using non-stainless circle hooks helps lower the longevity of the hook rely on this keystone species to help hold in place the precious balance of underwater, which is beneficial to hammerheads and other species that life that allows our coral reef systems to thrive. Sharks are an easy scapegoat, portrayed by films and most media as are particularly susceptible to exhaustion during catch and release. Helping preserve shark populations is one step towards ensuring aggressive predators. In reality, sharks play an important role policing and that the activities and ecosystems we enjoy today remain healthy for even strengthening the populations of their prey. Sharks are opportunistic predators that feed on old, weakened or generations to come. If you’re interested in learning more about sharks or conservation sick fish. This in turn ensures that only the healthiest members of a fish population reproduce, overall strengthening a species gene pool. efforts, we invite you to join us on Friday, Feb. 24 for a fascinating Similarly, by targeting prey made weaker by disease, sharks help prevent presentation by Angela Smith of Shark Team One. The event will be hosted at Pura Vida Divers, and details can be found on our website at the rapid spreading of that disease through a school. If fish or other marine species thrive without a predatory threat, they www.puravidadivers.com.
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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.
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Center sp By Richard L. Matteson Jr. Stuart Rod & Reel Club Staff
Don’t Chase Rust, Protect Your Gear! Save your Fishing Rods, Reels, Tackle Boxes & Especially your Boat!
W
ading puts you in the water with the fish. You are now part of their element, and this gives you an advantage over a noisy boat with a motor or trolling motor and anglers bumping around on it. As a wader you can silently fish under piers and under mangrove branches where boats can’t go or even approach without spooking the fish. Winds and Tide When you wade the lagoon, you need to know the tide and the wind. You don’t want to fish during a slack tide, and you might not want to fish if it’s too windy. You might want to fish out of the wind or with the wind at your back. The tide determines if you fish shallow or deep as well as where the fish are.
Finding Fish As you enter the water, start looking for signs of bait and fish activity. Look for birds on the water or over the water. Use search lures like C.A.L. jigs that can be cast and retrieved quickly and cover a lot of water area. Use heavier jigs in windy conditions. Move quickly without making noise. Vary the speed of retrieve. Fast retrieves in the top of the water column catch ladyfish, jacks and snook, but you might miss trout, redfish and flounder. When you find fish, slow down and fish the area carefully.
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FEBRUARY 2017
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Areas To Wade The South Indian River Lagoon The South Indian River area I fish stretches from Vero Beach to Stuart. The Bridges: Fort Pierce has two bridges. The north bridge has a boat ramp on the east side from which you can wade, and there’s an area across the bridge from Little Jim’s on either side of the second boat ramp. The south Fort Pierce bridge has an area on the east side that stretches to the inlet. South of the bridge on the west side is a fishing area. In Stuart, the north bridge (Jensen Causeway) can be waded on either side and the same is true of the south Stuart bridge (Earnest Lyons). There are two bridges on the St. Lucie River, but they are hard to access for waders. The Shoreline: My favorite wading areas are Walton Road (Port St. Lucie), Walton Scrub, Midway (Ft. Pierce), and Wilcox Road (Vero Beach). On the east side there’s Herman’s Bay (PSL) and Bear Point (Ft. Pierce). Be Respectful Remember the pier owners have the access rights to their piers and don’t want waders parking along the pier areas without permission because it blocks their view of the lagoon. Happy wading! For more wading in the Indian River Lagoon, go to
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The Gator Den is a brand new, 12 room motel located at Angler’s Resort, on the Withlacoochee River, Dunnellon, FL. We have a Bait & Tackle Shop, Pontoon and Jon Boat Rentals, Airboat Tours and the Blue Gator Tiki Bar Restaurant, all on premise making this a fisherman’s getaway. 12189 S Williams St Dunnellon, FL 34432 | www.AnglersResort.us Motel: 352-489-2397 Restaurant: 352-465-1635 Boat Rentals: 352-489-2397
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“FIRST CLASS” 52’ 1988 HATTERAS CALL JERRY GILPIN: 772.359.5745
“GOOD VIBRATIONS” 48’ 1997 OCEAN CALL BRIAN WEAVER: 561.308.0939
“ROLLING ROCK” 45’ 1969 HATTERAS CALL JIM HENSON: 206.949.1647
“STACK ‘EM UP” 45’ 1997 OCEAN SS CALL BRIAN WEAVER: 561.308.0939
“CLUB SHAK” 43’ 2001 RIVIERA CALL JOHN PARRY: 561.510.4024
“GALAXY” 41’ 2007 LUHRS CALL STEVE MOYNIHAN: 561.722.9629
39’ 2008 SEA VEE CALL BRANDON O’CONNOR: 561.723.4737
“MARSHALL TIME” 38’ 1988 HATTERAS CALL MARK MITCHELL: 407.435.6982
“EVELYN” 37’ 2002 EGG HARBOR CALL CHRIS VACCHIO: 772.263.0547
“LADY IRISH” 36’ 2009 ALBEMARLE CALL SCOTT LEVIN: 772.263.1208
“FINTASIM” 35’ 2014 EVERGLADES CALL MIKE McCARTHY: 772.631.2838
“DOUBLE SIXES” 35’ 2003 PREDATOR/EGG HARBOR CALL DAVE BERARD, JR: 772.285.0859
“PANDEMONIUM” 34’ 1983 HINES FARLEY CALL JERRY GILPIN: 772.359.5745
“FISH ON” 32’ 2004 ALBEMARLE CALL JERRY GILPIN: 772.359.5745
“MY STYLE” 28’ 2005 ALBEMARLE CALL CHRIS VACCHIO: 772.263.0547
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FEBRUARY 2017
CENTRAL FLORIDA 3
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OUTCAST 15DF
OUTCAST 17DF
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150HP Mercury Outboard, Trailer
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Length 15’2”, Beam 6’5”, Approx. Weight 800lbs., Draft 5”-7”, Fuel Capacity 6 Gal. Standard Feature Package.
Length 17’1”, Beam 6’7”, Approx. Weight 950lbs., Draft 6”-8”, Fuel Capacity 6 Gal., Standard Feature Package, High-speed baitwell Pick-up.
Length 21’, Beam 7’10”, Approx. Weight 1540lbs., Draft 8”-10”, Fuel Capacity 37 Gal. Standard Feature Package, High-speed baitwell pickup.
Length 22’10”, Beam 7’, draft 8”, Fuel capacity 49 gal, Hull Weight 1825lbs., Transom 27”, Simrad Multi Funtion Display, Sonar, Nav, WiFi, Engine Monitoring
CAPECRAFT 190 BAY
CLEARWATER 1900CC
CLEARWATER 1900CC
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115HP Mercury Outboard, Trailer
Boat Only, No Motor. No Trailer
150HP Mercury Outboard, Trailer
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Length 19’, Beam 7’11”, Approx. Weight 1725lbs., Draft 7”-9”, Fuel Capacity 35 Gal. Standard Feature Package, 12 vertical rod holders, Anchor locker, High-speed baitwell pickup, Large aerated livewell, Tinted windshield, 8 Vert ROD holders.
Length 18’6”, Beam 7’9”, Approx. Weight 1900lbs., Draft 12”-14”, Fuel Capacity 45 Gal. Standard Feature Package, 18 gallon livewell, 10 vertical rod holders, Anchor locker, Cockpit washdown pump, Compass, Composite construction, High-speed baitwell pickup, Hydraulic steering, Large insulated fishbox/ dry storage, Stainless steel parts, Tinted windshield, Under gunnel rod holders.
Length 18’6”, Beam 7’9”, Approx. Weight 1900lbs., Draft 12”-14”, Fuel Capacity 45 Gal. Standard Feature Package, 18 gallon livewell, 10 vertical rod holders, Anchor locker, Cockpit washdown pump, Compass, Composite construction, Highspeed baitwell pickup, Hydraulic steering, Large insulated fishbox/ dry storage, Stainless steel parts, Tinted windshield, Under gunnel rod holders.
Length 20’1”, Beam 8’3”, Approx. Weight 2400lbs., Draft 14”-16”, Fuel Capacity 60 Gal. Standard Feature Package, 18 gallon livewell, 10 vertical rod holders, Anchor locker, Cockpit washdown pump, Compass, Composite construction, High-speed baitwell pickup, Hydraulic steering, Large insulated fishbox/ dry storage, Stainless steel parts, Tinted windshield, Under gunnel rod holders.
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COASTAL ANGLER Treasure Coast edition Co-Publishers Gary and Misti Guertin
SAVE THE DATE: FEBRUARY 25
South River Outfitters’
Fishing with the Pros, designed to help you catch more fish in 2017 like this nice red.
Kayak Fishing with the Pros
L
et’s make 2017 the year you will catch more fish! Attend the 6th annual South River Outfitters’ Kayak Fishing with the Pros on February 25, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and find out how to achieve the “catch more fish” goal. At this free event, experts from the kayak fishing community will share their tips and best practices for hooking and landing more fish. From rigging the kayak to choosing the right lure, these professional anglers will share it all. Learn in one day what would take years to learn on your own. Remember, mark your calendars now for Saturday, February 25. Kayak Fishing with the Pros will be hosted
at South River Outfitter’s waterfront location on the South Fork of the St. Lucie River, 7647 Lost River Road, Stuart, FL 34997. Team anglers from Hobie, Ocean Kayak, Wilderness Systems, YakAttack, RAM mounts, and Bending Branches will conduct several seminars on a variety of topics, with the first session kicking off at 10 a.m. There will be giveaways all day long from the sponsors, and refreshments will be available from local Scouts. Join your fellow angling ‘yakers and make 2017 your epic kayak fishing year!
PHOTO CREDITS: South River Outfitters.
REAL. LOCAL. SAVINGS.
For more information, call (777) 223-1500 or visit www.southriveroutfitters.com.
772-405-9092 geico.com/treasurecoast 3970 NW Federal Hwy
Local Office From rigging the kayak to choosing the right lures, Fishing with the Pros is a day designed to help you catch more fish.
Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2016. © 2016 GEICO.
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St. Lucie County Artificial Reef Update: February 2017 T
he St. Lucie County Artificial Reef Program continues to provide habitat for juvenile fish and other organisms through deployment of oyster reefs in the Indian River Lagoon. At least 23 fish species within the snapper–grouper complex live on St. Lucie County artificial reefs offshore. Thirteen of these species are known to live in the Indian River Lagoon at some point in their life history. To ensure these fish continue to be found and harvested on our artificial reefs, it is necessary to provide habitats for all life history stages, including juveniles. Oyster reefs, deemed by the National Marine Fisheries Service as essential fish habitat, provide habitat for juvenile fish. On the latest oyster reefs deployed subtidally, with the cooperation of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and with financial assistance from the South Florida sea bass, red grouper, lane snapper, Water Management District, juvenile sheepshead, and yellowtail snapper. fishes have been observed on or The County’s oyster reefs also near these reefs, including black provide habitat for oysters and
Go With A Pro
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PHOTO CREDITS: St. Lucie County Artificial Reef Program.
other organisms, including mussels, crabs, shrimp, sponges, tunicates, echinoderms, and macroalgae. On the latest subtidal oyster reef, juvenile lobster and stone crabs were found within one week of deployment. Most oyster reefs in St. Lucie County have been created largely by citizen volunteers. In the last year, citizens have been helped by various groups, including the Girl Scouts, Indian River State College Science Club, Jack and Jill of America, Jitters and Critters 4-H Club, Red Lobster Green Team, Tomeu Mentors Club, Treasure Coast Casters, and Treasure Coast High School Key Club. While the County is responsible for finding and permitting locations for oyster reef deployments and supervising all activities, volunteers have taken responsibility for not only creating
and deploying modules, but also for designing and manufacturing tools to make the modules, and maintaining the oyster shell quarantining area. Volunteers from the Fort Pierce Sportfishing Club have even purchased a trailer to collect shell weekly. Oyster module placement usually occurs in intertidal areas next to shorelines. In some cases, deployment of an initial row of modules has resulted in seagrass growth in adjacent areas. Since additional modules cannot be deployed where seagrasses have recruited, growth of seagrasses sometimes limits the size of oyster reefs that can be deployed in any area. In one case, seagrass recruitment next to the initial row of modules was so dense that the only location to deploy the remaining modules was 25 yards
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CLOCKWISE, FROM LEFT: Most oyster reefs in St. Lucie County have been created by citizen volunteers; Oyster reefs provide habitat for oysters and a variety of other organisms, including crabs; Sheepshead and other fish have been observed on the latest deployed oyster reefs.
away in deeper water. Deep water and rapidly moving currents rendered deployment by volunteers too dangerous. Modules were created by volunteers but then had to be barged in by McCulley Marine Services. Divers from SeaRover Services then hand-placed the modules over the course of two days. The final location for St. Lucie County’s current oyster reef permit is Wildcat Cove. Volunteers have already started to make and stage modules at this location. Although deployment in this area should allow
Great Fishing & Great Fun! Backcountry Fishing Association is grateful for the support of our sponsors:
for volunteer placement, difficulty in both entering the water through mangroves and wading through chest deep water still may exist. Volunteers from the Coastal Conservation Association have offered to provide boats to ensure the safety of volunteers during this deployment. For more information on the St. Lucie County Artificial Reef Program, contact Jim Oppenborn, St. Lucie County Coastal Resources Coordinator at (772) 462-1713 or oppenbornj@stlucieco.org.
Backcountry Fishing Association Fort Pierce, FL
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FEBRUARY 2017
TREASURE COAST 3
1/16/17 11:04 PM
SHE, WHO FISHES By Christina Weber
Hobie Pro Angler Christina catching up the bass.
Top 4 Tools to Improve Your Kayak Tournament Season
I
’ve always believed that small adjustments make our biggest improvements. These are some tricks of the trade that I’ve learned over my years of kayak tournaments. A few small tools can greatly impact your day on the water. One of which is your net. I’m still not understanding why a net can cost me as much as a rod but nets can get up there in price. I greatly slacked off on investing in a net for a while. I even fished tournaments without it because let’s be honest who isn't on a budget? Plus, I apparently was trying to be Joe Cool. I wish I didn't hold back on this investment and I always encourage new tournament anglers to take the leap. There came a time where I lost a few fish I wouldn't have lost if I was prepared with a net. Second would be the Nite Ize Gear Ties. This is one of those tools I use often. I get a bundle of them in a few different sizes and I wrap them around a post that’s inside my
front hatch. This way they're always in my kayak and out of the way. I use them most of the time for quick fixes. Something always seems to go wrong on the morning of a tournament or the evening right before. Most of the time I’m handing them out to other guys, or a stranger at the ramp. It’s always fun to be the hero. Thirdly and oddly enough I would have to suggest getting yourself a super sweet water bottle. I like this approach because one 40-ounce vacuum insulated bottle thrown in my crate will stay colder than water bottles in my cheap cooler. I don't usually need more than this, but if you do you can always buy a larger size or multiple smaller ones. This is much more budget and travel friendly, and much easier to handle thrown around in a kayak with limited space. I know a lot of guys who started making this simple adjustment. I think the majority or folks who fish kayak tournaments want to simplify their
No CarrywiN
g
Mon. – Sat. 5:30 a.M. – 8:00 p.M. Sun. 5:30 a.M. – 6:00 p.M.
PHOTO COURTESY of Christina Weber.
process. Eliminating a bunch of water and will stay put while you stag those entry photos. bottles is one way. Fourthly having a lip grip tethered to your boat is huge for kayak Christina Weber is a born and raised tournaments. We have potential in South Florida fisherman utilizing kayak tournaments to put some stress the fishing capital to the full extent. on these fish since we have to lay them For her, kayak fishing happened on a bump board for a photo shoot. by accident when she wanted to What I like about this approach is that venture into uncharted waters that I can land the fish, lip him and put she couldn’t reach by motor boat. him back in the water while I gather Over time, she realized that a kayak my phone and bump board. Then I could take her anywhere, and fish can put him back in the water while freshwater, saltwater, inshore and I analyze the shots to make sure I’m offshore all from her Hobie Outback. following all the rules. Taking this Christina has been competing in approach also allows you to work tournaments for over 10 years. with a fish that’s less likely to jump For more on Christina, visit off the board. They're not as stressed www.christinaweberfishing.com.
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Monthly and Annual Memberships Available.
Running Bullseye league every 1st & 3rd Tuesday
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Email: northforkstlucie@aol.com
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1/16/17 11:04 PM
fishing forecasts
Angler tching ass.
martin county inshore nearshore
Capt. John Young Bites On Guide Service (772) 708-3593 snoooky12@yahoo.com
F
ebruary winds will dictate where and how you fish this month. There will be plenty of bluefish in the surf and inlet along with Spanish macs on the inshore reef line, with the major concentration at Peck Lake. Big sheepshead, black drum and croaker will be on the inshore reefs, rocky rubble in the river, docks and bridges. Live or dead shrimp on a jig head is the best method to catch these fish. Every winter we
get a good run of sugar trout at the Ten Cent Bridge mixed in with other species. Look for pompano on the tide changes around the Stuart and Jensen causeway bridges and nearby flats. Yellow or pink jigs work great for these tasty fish. Snook season is open so try your luck or skill around the bridges with a Big Jig or Swim Bait on a moving tide. On warmer days, the snook will be in shallow water getting a sun tan, so approach with stealth. A long accurate cast with a light lure or bait will draw their attention. The trout bite will depend on the water temps, so fish the deeper cuts or the edges of the flats when it’s cold and move up to the shallows as the sun starts to warm up the water. The reds will be feeding in the shallows and along the mangroves. A D.O.A. paddle tail in root beer or motor oil green is hard to beat. Get ready for the cobia bite to start on the inshore reefs and wrecks. Keep the waterways clean and wear your Costas.
martin county offshore
Capt. Scott Fawcett
Off the Chain Fishing Charters (772) 285-1055 fishscottyf@bellsouth.net offthechainfishing.com
F Manda Welsh releasing her first sailfish ever and her husband Mike fighting another one in the background while fishing with Capt Scott Fawcett aboard Off The Chain. PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Scott Fawcett.
BITES ON GUIDE SERVICE
Capt. John Young USCG License & Insured
(772) 708-3593 • Inshore, Light Offshore • Day or Night • St. Lucie & Indian River • License & Equipment Provided Snook • Trout • Redfish • Tarpon • Kingfish
ebruary is here and although we didn't have a very cold winter we did have enough north wind to set us up for a pretty decent early spring. Over the last couple of years, our mahi run has taken place a little earlier than normal which is typically May. I feel this year is going to be similar. Expect good mahi fishing this February and along with sailfish, blackfin tuna and a good possibility of seeing some manta rays with
Ethan LeRoy and Sean Torpey doing some triple tail fishing with Capt. John Young of Bites On Charters.
PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. John Young.
cobia following behind them. Your best chance at the sails would be trolling or live baiting with light line, leader, and circle hooks in 120- to 200-feet of water while the dolphin frequent areas there and usually a little deeper this time of year. The manta rays will migrate along foam edges and slim lines that run along the beaches and reefs. This is a great time of year to use live bait for sailfish around bait schools on the beaches too. Light tackle and small circle hooks will increase your amount of bites and probably your ratio. Targeting dolphin this time of year, I still prefer to troll. Covering water is the name of the game for them in February and it takes too long to drift from 500 feet into 100 feet of water. Put out a few ballyhoo rigged on J hooks and pull a squid chain and either a
dredge or mullet chain as teasers. After having a couple bites in an area, if you have some live bait, it's probably not a bad idea to toss them out, but if you go any length of time without another nibble I would put out the trolling spread again and move on. February is also a good month to live bait for kingfish or run and gun looking for schools of permit. Whatever you decide to do this February, remember to have a cobia slayer, a RonZ lure or a crab on your spinning rod ready to cast. Manta rays and cobia are seen frequently now and having a rod at the ready is key to taking advantage of that opportunity. If you have any interest getting out this February please give me a call, we have plenty of availabilities and I'd love to take you. Looking forward to fishing with you soon.
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fishing forecasts
south indian river lagoon
Capt. Charlie Conner
Capt. Charlie’s Fish Tales Charters (772) 284-3852 captaincharlie@fishtalescharter.com www.fishtalescharter.com
W
hile winter is still here on the Treasure Coast, weekly cold fronts will continue to bring cool nights and lots of windy days to the area, and fishing will still be good out on the water. It has been a tough winter so far with all the rain, winds and cold. Water temperatures can dictate where and how you might fish on any given day this month. January was a much warmer month this year. When the water is cold, fish the deeper cuts and drop offs of the river. Sunny days will bring fish up in
deep sea
Capt. Rocky Carbia
Safari I Pirates Cove Resort and Marina 4307 SE Bayview St. Port Salerno Reservations: (772) 334-4411 Safari-1.com
T
reasure Coast near coastal anglers will need to continue to watch and pay close attention to the cold fronts of the Florida winter. These fronts are offshore weather makers and directly influence the daily sea conditions anglers will have to contend with in February. East of Stuart, these winter conditions will be firmly in place and as always, will necessitate that captains and their
shallower waters to feed and the bite can really get hot out on the flats. The trout bite picks up very nicely in February. 2016 proved to be the year of big trout in the Fort Pierce area. I anticipate that 2017 will be another big fish year around the area. C.A.L. jerk baits and Deadly Combos are exciting ways to trout fish with artificial lures, while live shrimp on popping corks are the ol’ standard way to trout fish out on the river. Redfish can be found in shallow flats around mangroves and islands. We had a fantastic winter bite in 2016 around the docks and mangroves for redfish. On warm sunny days, the reds will sit around the mangroves and soak up the sun. Finding some along the mangroves will bring some good rod bending action to anglers this month. D.O.A. shrimp and C.A.L. jerk baits can find some hungry reds hugging the mangrove lines when fished very slowly. Docks are a great way to find plenty of fish waiting for something tasty to drift under them. Sheephead will be plentiful around the river and the larger fish anglers find a suitable user-friendly weather window when venturing offshore to fish. And with the advent of the Internet, there are a multitude of virtual near-coastal reference points fishing crews can check as they try to schedule an offshore trip. Besides tuning in to local television weather reports, there are several go-to online forecasts and real time reports that one can check before ever launching or untying the boat that will ultimately aid in the decision making. These include, but are not limited to: the NOAA offshore sea condition forecast for the near shore waters, east of the St. Lucie Inlet at http://1.usa.gov/1AjSteo; the NOAA Wave Height Buoy, which is positioned just east of Ft. Pierce, at http://1.usa.gov/1ymGv7i; the Jensen Beach Webcam, which has multiple
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FEBRUARY 2017
Brody and Chloe with a couple jacks caught while fishing on a rainy day with grandpa Charlie. PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Charlie Conner.
will be coming into the river to breed. They showed up early this year and January has been a great month for them. Live or dead shrimp around bridges, docks and structure can provide lots of action in addition to some great tasting fish. Sand perch and croakers should also be hanging real-time cameras on area beaches and an anemometer, for wind speed and direction, at www.evsmartin. com; and the St. Lucie Inlet Web Cam, which gives a live photo of the mouth of the inlet, which is updated every ten minutes or so, at www. stlucieinlet.com. These reference points can prove to be quite valuable during decision making of whether or not a particular day looks “fishable” or not, for your boat and crew. Once a fishing window opens, cobia and snapper will become the preferred target species of near coastal reef fishermen. Schools of cobia will continue to stream through our reef zones in depths of 50 to 100 feet and will fall to dead and live baits deployed atop reefs, at all depths throughout the water column. Live baits such as grunts, greenies and sardines are some of a cobia`s favorite snacks, however a hungry “cobe” will eat just about anything it can fit in its expansive mouth— 30- to 50-pound main line, with terminal tackle that consists of 50- to 80-pound leader, tied to a 5/0-7/0 hook, will get that cobia to the boat. Furthermore, members of the snapper family, which include lane, mangrove (grey), yellowtail, vermilion, cubera, and mutton, will be on the “most wanted list” for all bottom fishermen this month, especially since the closed season on all groupers will be in full effect. Reef structures in depths from 50 to 90 feet will hold most of these representatives of the snapper
around the inlet and bridges during February. Pompano around the surf and on the deeper flats of the river can be taken on C.A.L. grub tails, Doc’s Goofy Jigs and shrimp or clams. Bluefish, mackerel and jacks will continue to haunt the baitfish around the jetties and turning basin. Small, shiny lures will keep you busy. There should be some flounder around the back sides of the jetties and on sand flats around the inlet area. February is a transition month on the river. Winter has been challenging this year on the Treasure Coast. We have enjoyed more normal winter weather and the fish bite has been good for us. Winds will still be blowing and the water will begin to gradually rise in temperature. Fishing your lures slowly will certainly give you more action on the river. Fish tend to be sluggish in the colder water. Working your lures or bait slower along the bottom will give the fish more time to react to it and will result in more bites for anglers. Have fun this month and get out fishing.
Lane snapper will continue to be plentiful across near shore reefs, like this jumbo one caught by Tyler Bardales while fishing aboard the Safari 1. PHOTO CREDIT: Safari 1 Deep Sea Fishing.
category and allow anglers to dial in their snapper catching strategies from offshore of the Loran Tower to the power plant, most notably large mutton snapper and jumbo cubera snapper will continue to post up, east and south of the inlet, on natural and artificial reefs this month, look for the big snappers in 50 to 80 feet of water, and deploy the baits for these bruisers on 40 to 60 foot leaders comprised of 80- to 125-pound test monofilament. Baits that are deployed on edges of the reef contour will yield the best results for success in whacking a jumbo snapper.
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1/16/17 11:05 PM
be s, like ardales ri 1.
st. lucie county inshore
Capt. Joe Ward
Capt. Joe’s River Charters (772) 201-5770 or (772) 461-1335 CWard11605@aol.com captjoeward.com
O
n February 1st, everyone will be out for the opening of snook season. And, from all the signs, it should be a good one. A good place to start snook season will be around the Fort Pierce Inlet and the local bridges. When fishing from the bridges, I
would fish a live bait, like a pinfish, pilchard or greenie, on the bottom. Use a 5\0 live bait hook and three feet of 40-pound fluorocarbon leader and enough weight to hold the bottom. Try one hour before to one hour after the tide changes. On the inlet, try drifting the same kind of live baits but with a bigger weight. I would use a 6- to 8-ounce weight. When the cold fronts drop the water temps, it is time to get out the jigs and fish places like the wall, jetty or the bridges. Color is usually the angler’s preference. Right now my favorite is a Flair Hawk, made by Fish Whistle Jigs, with a pink head with chartreuse/white body. Remember to fish the jigs slowly, as they say if you
st. lucie county offshore
Capt. Danny Markowski
LottaBull Fishing Charters (772) 370-8329 lottabull4@bellsouth.net lottabullfishingcharters.com
S
napper will be on the catch list for February and many varieties will be around reefs, wrecks and structures. Look for them in water depths from 10 feet to 125 feet and farther. There are multiple species of snapper and they will be on the hunt for food. Mutton snapper are one of the most sought after in the snapper family. Muttons can be found near any kind of structure, manmade or natural. Mutton snapper seem to stay in the sandy areas around the structure and are very skittish fish. It is recommended to use a long fluorocarbon leader no more than 30 pounds. Another snapper species to look for is the mangrove snapper. These fish are also found around structure, manmade or natural, but unlike
Daniel with a 30-pound kingfish caught in 60 feet of water fishing out of Fort Pierce inlet. The fish ate a Manns lipped lure being trolled behind the boat.
aren't losing jigs you aren’t fishing them right. Now, moving on to the other fish, croakers, sheepshead, black drum and sand perch should be all around the bridges and docks along the Intracoastal. Try a small live shrimp or a piece of fresh dead shrimp and fish it on a #2 long shank hook and use a 1-ounce weight and 2-feet of 20-pound fluorocarbon leader. Look for plenty of bluefish, Spanish mackerel and big jacks working the schools of bait fish as the come in the Fort Pierce Inlet. Try fishing a Gotcha Jig, spoon or a flash jig—just about anything shiny. Remember to use a small piece of wire on the end of your leaders to keep from getting cut off. snapper, they will hold tighter to structure. You’ll catch these while bottom fishing for mangrove and mutton snapper. You can hook snapper on a smaller live sardine or dead baits, such as a sardine plug, squid or a chunk of ballyhoo. Even a nice hand-picked shrimp will be appetizing to these fish. As far as equipment, I use light 10-pound tackle if I am fishing the beach and to 25- to 30-pound tackle if fishing depths to 100 foot. The possibility of catching a red snapper is there, but if you land one,
Ernie Grant with a keeper snook from last season. PHOTO supplied by Capt. Joe’s River Charters.
please release the fish unharmed. Red snapper season is closed so they are not legal to keep. Prior to snapper fishing, please familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations for the Atlantic Coast (the Gulf Coast rules and regulations are different). Each variety of snapper has a different size limit so be sure to know the legal sizes for each fish you catch. Be sure to have a venting tool on your boat for any bottom fish that you may catch that is too small or needs to be thrown back. Have a great time on the water and good luck.
PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Danny Markowski.
mutton snapper, these fish are caught much closer to the structure, often hiding in cracks and crevices waiting for food, and they are not as skittish as muttons, so you can use a shorter leader between five and ten feet. The lane snapper bite will also be good this month. Lane snappers don’t get as big as mutton or mangroves but they can be as big as 4.5 pounds. These are a tasty fish with a good fight for their size. Like the mangrove
Capt. Danny Markowski U.S.C.G. Lic. Captain
OFFSHORE, INSHORE & NEAR SHORE (Full Day/Half Day Available)
Call (772) 370-8329
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FEBRUARY 2017
TREASURE COAST 7
1/16/17 11:05 PM
fishing forecasts
sebastian inshore
Capt. Gus Brugger
Pattern Setter Charters (772) 360-6787 www.WelcomeToSebastian.com
W
ith winter winds whipping up the Atlantic and cool water temperatures keeping the snook and tarpon lethargic in the inlet and up the Sebastian River, the Indian River Lagoon is where consistent action is to be had in the month of February. February may well be the best month for gator sized seatrout in the Sebastian area. The coldest weather will drive oversized trout into areas of protected deep water, such as canals and creeks. Live shrimp, D.O.A Shrimp, 52M MirroLures and soft plastics fished slowly near the bottom have yielded my clients some incredible catches and memories over the years. These same trout, which are described in pounds rather than inches, will be found in super shallow protected
areas as temperatures moderate between cold snaps. Under these conditions stealth becomes a must, and wading can further swing the odds in an angler’s favor. Live shrimp on a short leader below a small float is a great method to fool shallow water trout, especially if you have a strong wind or current to help the bait keep moving and covering ground. Soft plastics and small shallow running plugs are excellent choices for making the long casts necessary to cover the shallow, mud bottom flats without spooking the wary trout and reds. Redfish, regardless of water clarity or temperature, will be in the shallow backwaters. Mangrove shorelines can be sight fished when the waters are clear. Fly fishing allows for the soft presentation to visible fish that is often more important than the bait or lure, but a small live shrimp, D.O.A. shrimp or a jerk bait are also very effective when sight casting. If waters are murky, you can drift, pole or trolling motor very quietly throwing a weedless gold spoon, 4-inch D.O.A. C.A.L. jerk-bait or tipped skimmer jig and
with live shrimp, flies and artificials can lead to some eye-opening results. Use the wind and current to make long casts and natural drifts to get into gator trout and reds. Occasionally, big snook show up on the spoil islands in the spring and can be an added bonus while fishing for trout and reds. Pompano will still be a target of both surf and lagoon anglers in February. Todd Hagen with a nice pompano Sandfleas and cut clams are that hit a goofy jig. the preferred baits of surf fishermen who line up north PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Gus Brugger. and south of Sebastian Inlet. cover as much area as possible, both Yellow and pink Doc’s Goofy Jigs along the shore and in the adjacent have accounted for most of my featureless open water and have a pompano in the last few years. very good chance of scoring on reds, Hopping the jigs along the bottom trout and even snook that will lay up behind the inlet and around spoil along sunny shorelines on occasion. islands is the best way to target the Investing in a pair of waders tasty hard fighting pomps. If you are interested in fishing or can pay great dividends this time of year. Wade fishing spoil islands, buying a fisherman friendly property flats edges and sunny shorelines in the Sebastian area, I can help!
Cobia should be on the fishing scene this month.
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Rogue Wave Fishing Charters (772) 388-2950 roguewavefishing@gmail.com www.roguewavefishing.com
K Follow u s on more loca Facebook for l fishing info!
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Located across the street from Mulligan’s Restaurant and Sebastian Municipal Yacht Club, directly across from the Sebastian V/C boat ramp, Channel Marker R “68”
FEBRUARY 2017
ingfishing remains strong about 10 miles north of the inlet. The area the fish are being caught in is called "The Pines." You can find this area on any local chart. The commercial kingfish boats are allowed 50 fish per day and many of them catch their quota by 12:00 noon. The commercial guys will troll a spoon with a strip of poggy attached to the hook. A good speed to target them is 5- to 7-knots. We like to use live bait also. If you can find threadfin herrings on the beach, you're in there!
We may also hit one of the artificial reefs for live blue runners. Hook the live baits on stinger rigs with #7 wire. You can either slow troll with your live bait or anchor up and cast out your live bait. Keep a sharp eye out for cobia as the month progresses. Often the cobia can be spotted on the surface near turtles, following manta rays or just swimming along near the surface. Once you find a cobia, be as stealthy as possible, as you pull up near the fish from behind. Cast a live bait about five feet in front of it, so you don't spook it. Make sure your drag is set good and use a strong hook. Last year we crushed the dolphin in March so watch for the dolphin bite to really pick up later this month. Head out to the Gulf Stream and search for all the likely targets (i.e. weed lines, rips and temperature breaks).
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1/16/17 11:05 PM
n the month.
boatless
Capt. Chris Sharp
Beachwalker Guide Service (772) 475 8412 beachwalker32@gmail.com www.facebook.com/ BeachwalkerGuideService
F
ebruary means some hot river fishing. Target the trout; you’ll get lots of numbers. Fish the east side or west of the Indian River. You will find them near docks, on the flats and up close. I like to use a topwater plug like the Yo-Zuri Pencil in black and chrome. I work it right before daylight up to an hour after for really big trout. You can use a shrimp under a popping cork, or a soft rubber bait like a ZMan Shrimp in dark brown. Most fish will be up to five-pounds,
okeechobee
Capt. Eddie Perry
Okeechobee Adventures Guide Service (863) 763-7722 eperry@embarqmail.com www.OkeechobeeAdventures.com
B
ass fishing on the north end of The Big ‘O’ has been up and down, just like the weather. Cooler water temperatures and windy days have made for some tough days, but this is Okeechobee, where on any given day the fish are biting somewhere. On the days where we have had cold fronts bringing water temperature down, the Kissimmee River has produced good numbers and big fish up towards the 11-pound range. When temperatures drop, deep water ledges and points are just what the doctor ordered. Carolina rigged worms and deep diving crank baits are great baits to try on cold days. Live shiner fishing in deep water
with some big gator trout in the mix. Redfish will be hot as well and in the same areas of the trout. If you’d like to get some really big ones and lots of numbers, drive up to Sebastian State Park and fish the jetty and catwalk. I like to get some small finger mullet and hook them to a number 5 circle hook with 50-pound leader fished on the bottom. They hang in schools, so when you hook one, everyone will get bites and at the same time. Go way out on the jetty to the curve. This is where you can get a lot of fish. Fish the tides moving in or out. Snook fishing opens February 1, and night time is your best bet. Bridge fishing at night under the lights is where you’ll find them. Use a flair hawk jig or a soft rubber bait that gets down deep. Cold fronts and a north wind are ideal conditions. On the beach, the biggest jacks when the water is cold is usually very good. Put a shiner right on the bottom and wait for a bite just like you would if you were fishing with a float. The only difference is instead of watching a bobber you’ll need to watch your line. If you see your line jumping around you can bet your shiner just saw something that he does not want to see. Deep water areas on the north end of the lake are the Kissimmee River, Government Cut, and the Rim Canal. All of these places have rock ledges and underwater humps that will hold fish. In the Rim Canal, stick to the lake side of the canal where the shoreline break is usually quicker (deeper) and where there is more vegetation to provide shelter for the bass. Remember that a good fish finder is very handy when fishing deeper water, a good graph is a must have when locating structure in these areas. When the weather is nice and you can get out into the lake, Grassy Island, Kings Bar, and Tin House Cove have been very good areas to fish. But remember, if the water temperature drops from a cold front
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Steve Brust with a spillway snook caught with a Yo-Zuri Inshore 3D.
PHOTO CREDIT: Chris Sharp.
of the year will show up to begin spawning. Any inlet that meets the beach will be the place to be. I like to use spoons or chuggers first thing in the morning. Hold on because some of these will be over 30-pounds.
A Lake Okeechobee nice 6-pounder. PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Eddie Perry.
the bite can be very tough, so head toward deeper water. Winter also brings plenty of windy days which raises the primary question, where to fish in higher winds. Areas inside of Eagle Bay and
Flounder fishing in Fort Pierce will be good. Fish the little bend in the jetty with a shrimp or a live mullet on the bottom. Again, cold fronts are the best time for action. Good luck and tight lines! Cody’s Cove can protect you from the wind and produce some nice bass. One of the keys to being successful on the Big ‘O’ is to master the use of wind in your fishing. Whether winter or summer, learning to look for wind drive current that drives bait fish through channels and trails can greatly increase your rate of success. The speck fishing continues to improve as we move farther into winter and closer to spring. Indian Prairie, Horse Island and Third Point have produced good limits of specks on jigs and minnows and fisherman that are drifting out in front of Taylor Creek are catching limits as well. Chartreuse and white jigs and lime green jigs have been very good but always have a good assortment of colors and sizes when you go. Over the recent weeks, the specks have been running quite large, reports of 2- to 2.5-pound slabs are quite common. Be sure and stop by Garrard’s Bait and Tackle for all your fishing needs, live or artificial bait they have it. Good fishin’!
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FEBRUARY 2017
TREASURE COAST 9
1/16/17 11:05 PM
diving forecast
Steve Wood
Deep Six Watersports - Stuart (772) 288-3999 Stuart (772) 562-2883 Vero Steve.wood@deepsix.com www.deepsixintl.com
F
ebruary can be a bit chilly topside but many are surprised to learn water temps remain relatively warm throughout the winter in Florida, especially offshore. Divers who venture out local inlets maybe in for a treat if sea conditions lay down long enough between cold fronts since visibility can be quite clear this time of year too. Hunters love February since lobster season remains open and cobia return to local waters making for exciting encounters during the winter months. Visibility on the Treasure Coast is quite predictable this time of year, provided an eye is kept to the wind. Strong northerly winds from passing fronts during the winter months are often preceded by offshore, westerly winds for 12-to-24 hours before the
front sweeps through. With a little timing, divers can take advantage of this short spell of calm seas near the beach and can sneak in some great dives just outside local inlets. Since our area has been very dry for the past few months, there have been no discharges from Lake Okeechobee and minimal run-off from local canals. This results in clear water and great visibility at areas, like Peck Lake just outside of the St. Lucie, or the shallow reefs just north of the Fort Pierce Inlet. Local beach cams at Jensen Beach and Bathtub reef are great tools for watching realtime conditions for calm seas and good visibility. Temperatures can be surprisingly warm below the surface too, due to the proximity of our area to the warm influence of the Gulf Stream. Temps in the low 70s are common and can be warmer then air temps in some cases. A few tricks for staying warm after a dive: fill one-gallon water jugs with HOT water from the tap before leaving the house and put them in cooler. They will stay warm inside for four-plus hours and make for a great warmwater rinse after a dive. Dry clothes and a beanie are a big help too. Even a knee-length ‘boatcoat’ or parka over top of wet suits to protect from the wind will ensure a comfortable
With lobster season still open, there is still time to bag a delicious meal while explorng area reefs. PHOTO CREDIT: Deep Six Dive & Watersports.
ride back to the dock after a dive in cool weather. Since lobster season remains open through March, divers have plenty of time to bag a delicious meal while exploring area reefs. Cobia should also make their return in big numbers in February and Valentine’s Day is a great time to start looking for them. Divers will notice these good-eating gamefish tend to follow sharks, rays and big turtles and put up
quite a fight making them one of the most exciting fish to spear. Hunters should consider floating speared fish to the surface on a lift bag or sausage to avoid losing a catch or provoking an encounter with the tax collectors in grey suits. A common technique is to color code lift bags so boat crew know what’s attached to the other end, red for marking divers positions beneath the surface, and yellow or green for fish.
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FEBRUARY 2017
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FEBRUARY FISHING CONDITIONS February 1
POOR
Evening
February 22
FAIR
Morning
February 2
FAIR
Evening
February 23
GOOD
Morning
February 3
FAIR
Morning
February 24
FAIR
Morning
February 4
POOR
Morning
February 25
GOOD
Morning
February 5
POOR
Morning
February 26
GOOD
Evening
February 6
POOR
Morning
February 27
POOR
Evening
February 7
BEST
Morning
February 28
POOR
Evening
February 8
BEST
Morning
February 9
FAIR
Morning
February 10
FAIR
Evening
February 11
GOOD
Evening
February 12
GOOD
Evening
February 13
FAIR
Evening
February 14
POOR
Evening
February 15
POOR
Evening
February 16
GOOD
Evening
February 17
GOOD
Evening
February 18
POOR
Morning
February 19
POOR
Morning
February 20
POOR
Morning
February 21
FAIR
Morning
What do the ratings mean? POOR day basically means the fish will either steal all your bait or will not even touch your line. FAIR day means that you catch one or two fish but you will have to work hard to do so. GOOD day means that you will catch enough fish to feel gratified. BEST day means that you will catch something almost every time you cast your line in the water.
SOURCE: The Old Farmers’ 2017 Almanac
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FEBRUARY 2017
TREASURE COAST 11
1/16/17 11:05 PM
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KAYAK FISHING forecast
Brian Nelli
Pushin’ Water Kayak Charters (772) 201-5899 Brian@tckayakfishing.com www.tckayakfishing.com
INSHORE — February is a good
time to target a lot of different species. From pompano, jacks and sheepshead around deeper cuts to snook, reds, flounder and trout along the mangroves and structure. Launching at Snook Island in Lake Worth gets you close to some great structure for snook. During this time the water is a lot colder than most of the year. When fishing the flats around mangroves, hit the Jordan with his first sail. water a little later in the day and PHOTO CREDIT: Brian Nelli. target sand holes and areas with dark mud. These spots will warm quicker to entice the bite. than surrounding areas and should Check us out Pushin’ Water Kayak be holding fish. Remember snook Charters on Facebook, Instagram and season opens February 1. Youtube for all the latest adventures my clients and I get into. See you on the water! Offshore — The cobia will start
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9
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Imagine having an epic day of fishing scoring an “Indian River Slam” and not having to use ys 34997 Stuart, Florida 34997 da any gas or spend hours washing your boat. Imagine having anImagine epic day of fishing having an epic scoring day of fishing scoring To to learn more,pm you will want to attend Kayak TIMES: 9:00 am 5:00 772-223-1500 TIMES: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm both days 772-223-1500 an “Indian River Slam” and not having to use an “Indian River Slam” and notboth havingdays to use 223-1500 Fishing with the Pros. any gas orwith spend hours your boat. registration staring at 10:00 any gaswashing or spend hours washing your boat. with registration staring at 10:00 TIMES: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm both days ES: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm both days www.southriveroutfitters.com www.southriveroutfitters.com To learn more, youTowill want toyou attend Kayak Kayak Fishing withtothe ProsKayak is a two day learn more, will want attend veroutfitters.com LOCATION: South River Outfitters, LOCATION: River Outfitters, 34997 with registration staring at 10:00 h registration staring at 10:00 South Fishing with the Pros. with seminars, lectures, demonstrations, Fishing withevent the Pros. sriveroutfitters@gmail.com 7647 Lost Rivergiveaways, Rd. Stuart, sriveroutfitters@gmail.com LOCATION: South RiverRd. Outfitters, 7647 Lost River Stuart,Kayak Florida 34997 and saleFlorida designed34997 to get you ATION: South River Outfitters, ters@gmail.com Fishing with the Fishing Pros iswith a two Kayak theday Pros is a two day Some of the featured speakers: coring kayak fishing. Lost River34997 Rd. Stuart, Florida 34997 Lost River Rd. 7647 Stuart, Florida Imagine having epic day of fishing scoring with seminars, lectures, demonstrations, event with an seminars, lectures, demonstrations, Imagine having an epic day ofevent fishing scoring 7o7 use giveaways, sale designed get younot “Indian River Pre-registration Slam” and having use is appreciated not giveaways, andtosale designed to get youtobut Imagine an epic day ofand fishing scoring gine having an epic day of having fishingRiver scoring an “Indian Slam” not havingantoand use Some of the featured speakers: Some of the featured speakers: oat. kayak fishing. mandatory. All those pre-registering fishing. any gaskayak or spend hours washing your boat. will “Indian River Slam” and notwashing having toyour use Carlos Alonso ndian River Slam”anand not having to usehours any gas or spend boat. 376_Treasure_Coast_FINAL.indd 12 receive awant free gift while supplies last! ayak anywashing or spend hours washing yourPre-registration learn more, you will gas or spend hours your boat. isPre-registration appreciated but not to attend is appreciated but not Kayak Togas learn more, you will want to boat. attendToKayak learntomore, will want to attend Kayak Fishing arn more, you willTowant attendyou Kayak with the Pros. mandatory. All those pre-registering will mandatory. All those pre-registering will the featured speakers: Fishing with the Pros. Carlos Alonso Carlos Alonso ng with the Pros.Fishing with the Pros.
to move into the beaches following rays, sharks and turtles. I like to have a D.O.A. Swimming Mullet ready to pitch to them when spotted. Sailfish, small kings, wahoo and dolphin will also still be frequent catches in February. Look for these fish to be found from 90-to-120 feet chasing goggle eyes and blue runners. If live bait is not an option, try an artificial trolling lure like SeaLime Lures. These baits have great life-like action
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1/16/17 11:05 PM
Fishing: First Casts
How to Handle Your First Kayak Fishing Trips Project1:Layout 1
By Hobie Fishing
Y
ou’ve seen the photos. The ones in which some lucky guy is hoisting a fat largemouth or slug of a sailfish – and the fish is nearly as large as the kayak he’s sitting in. Must be something to this kayak fishing craze, hmm? You’re itching to give it a try. The Hobie First Cast program is the easiest way to dip a toe and sample kayak fishing. Based out of local Hobie dealers, for a nominal fee, anglers can experience a guided trip on mellow water, and quite likely catch their first ‘yak fish. They can test different rides, and see if a Mirage Outback or Mirage Pro Angler 14 might be a better fit. Find a First Cast program near you. If you’re ready to dive in, buy a kayak or borrow one from a friend, but then pump the brakes – just a little. Don’t just quickly bolt on a couple of extra rod holders and charge offshore with a brace of untethered rods or other pricey gear. More than a few who’ve taken this route have paid a heavy price in gear dropped overboard or lost in the uncaring surf, seasoned with a big dose of no-fish frustration.
6/12/14
2:46 PM
Kayak fishing is something nearly anyone can do, but fishing from a human powered craft takes some getting used to. Start slowly, particularly if you’ve never pedaled or paddled a kayak. Take the time to familiarize yourself with your new steed. In fact, for the first trip or two, it’s not a bad idea to leave the fishing tackle at home. Use the time to become accustomed to the limits of the boat. With the MirageDrive, it’s easy, just hop on and go. If you’re rocking a paddle craft such as the Quest, one of the first things you should do is double the power of your paddle stroke by figuring how to push with one arm at the same time as you pull using the other. There’s a lot more to an efficient paddle stroke, but that’ll get you started right. Go somewhere sheltered and safe and get comfortable with the kayak – and your PFD, which won’t be any help if it’s stashed below decks when you need it. Today’s sit-on-top fishing kayaks are stable and forgiving, so you’ll be able to pull hard on fish, but they still have their limits. It’s better to learn them ahead of time. See how far you can push your boat before it turns turtle. It’s a great excuse to practice climbing back on once you’ve fallen
Page 1
PHOTO CREDITS: Hobie Fishing.
off, otherwise known as self-rescue. When you are ready to go fishing, keep things simple at first. Limit yourself to one or two outfits and a handful of tackle. If you haven’t already noticed, you can take a lot of gear but there’s definitely a limit. The trick to managing it is everything must have its place. And if you can’t bear to lose something, tether it to the kayak. Pull on a fish from the deck of a sportboat or from shore and it comes to you. On a kayak, hook a good fish and you’re off on a thrilling ride. You reel yourself to
the fish. When it comes time to land it, there’s nowhere for it to go but your lap. Since fighting and handling fish is so different from a kayak, it’s a good idea to get some practice on smaller models before you set your sights on bigger game. Ponds and sheltered bays are excellent for making those first casts and paddle strokes. Catch some fish, learn how to survive boat wakes and other turbulence, and soon enough you and your kayak will be one. Then it’ll be time to head out on the big water.
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!
WHATSUP! By Jennifer Hoard
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I
Is an Inflatable SUP for You?
nflatable standup paddle boards (SUP) have experienced a surge in popularity due to their value, durability and versatility. You get a lot for your money when you purchase an inflatable SUP. These boards are typically sold with a pump, paddle, fin, repair kit and bag. What’s even better, when the board is deflated, everything fits in the bag for easy storage and travel. Durability in an inflatable SUP is obviously important. A couple things to look for are a puncture resistant material for the skin and the use of high density drop stitch fabric. We recommend a skin made of military grade PVC. Look for a board with several overlapping layers of PVC, especially on the rails. This increases durability and its ability to resist punctures. Inflatable SUPs are not hollow. There is a weave
of fabric that fills the inside of the board called drop stitch fabric. The drop stitch allows the board to hold air pressure and provides firmness when standing on it to paddle. High density, as the name implies, has a larger number of fibers. You'll want this because it increases firmness and the board’s ability to withstand increased pressure, especially if over inflated. Inflatable paddle boards are the go anywhere, do anything SUP. They are extremely versatile, great for travel and perfect for folks who don’t have the space required to store a traditional fiberglass board. At Sea Sup Go Paddle and Surf Company in Vero Beach, Bote Aerobote inflatable SUPs are the foundation of our rental fleet. For those new to paddling, we’ve found the 11-foot Breeze seems more stable and easier
The Bote Drift is the perfect fishing inflatable board. It’s additional length provides extra gear space for a full day of fishing. PHOTO CREDIT: Sea Sup Go.
you to bring extra gear for a full day of fishing. So, feel free to strap down the extra-large cooler filled with ice. The durability of these boards allow access to water that was previously inaccessible. At around 26-pounds, these inflatable SUPs are easy to transport and store. The bag has straps that allow you to wear it like a backpack so you can truly take it anywhere. We ride bikes with them on our backs to paddle at the beach! Inflatable SUPs easily fit inside a car, boat or small plane. Commercial airlines allow you to check them as luggage. Also keep in mind, these boards are perfect for paddlers who don’t have roof racks on their vehicles, or the space to store a traditional “hard” board. Stop by Sea Sup Go Paddle & Surf Company on Royal Palm Pointe in Vero Beach to try Bote’s wide selection of inflatable SUPs, including the 8-foot Flow and 12foot 4-inch Zeppelin, to find the one that’s right for you.
to stand up on than a comparable “hard” board. Renters find it nice not to be concerned with scratching or dinging the board. Our SUP yogi’s find these inflatable standup paddle boards more forgiving too. When shifting weight on a hard board, the entire board tilts in the water. This doesn’t happen on the Breeze, so it’s a lot easier to achieve those challenging yoga poses on the board. We also use the 11-foot 6-inch Drift because it has all the great aspects of the Breeze Jennifer and her husband, Barrett, but is the perfect fishing inflatable are the owners of Sea Sup Go board due to its 350-pound capacity located in Vero Beach, FL. For more and Tackle Rac compatibility. The info, contact them at (772) 217–8708 additional 6-inches in length, allows or info@SeaSupGo.com.
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FEBRUARY 2017
TREASURE COAST 15
1/16/17 11:05 PM
WIND, WATER & WAVES By Jeremy Lund
What's In Store F
for the Rest of the Kiteboarding Season
or those with flexible schedules, this has been a great season so far for kiteboarding. So what is the outlook for the second half? Well, kiteboarder's and fellow sailors, it looks good. Great news for us, but
As of press time, the U.S. frontal map from Weather Underground.
PHOTO CREDIT: Lori Griffith.
not so much for those looking for calm days on the boat (which can be equally as fun). There is no possible way to truly predict what will happen wind-wise over the next few months. However, based on the patterns thus far, we may have even more wind coming this winter. As we have discussed in past articles, our wind is mainly driven by cold fronts and low pressure systems. Currently, there are many active low pressure systems and fronts that have been approaching from both the west coast and the northeast. As we get deeper into winter, the temperature gradients will only grow stronger, creating more powerful cold fronts.
So how can you plan your days to maximize enjoyment? Often, you can look at the weather map and start to see the systems long before the wind forecast sites start to predict with any accuracy. I can often see wind potential 10 days out. That said, nor you or the experts will be able to predict wind speeds that far out. However, you can give yourself an idea of what's coming and judge the potential of good wind. It will take lots of practice and along with a mental or physical storm journal to really learn the patterns. That said, to get started, look at the "frontal boundary map" on your favorite forecasting site. Look for cold fronts mainly in the Great Lakes to New England region. Next look at the gradient between
the temperature in front of the cold front, behind the cold front and the current temp here at home. The stronger the gradient (larger the difference in temperature) the stronger the wind is likely to be. There are so many more factors than this but you can really get an idea of what's coming this way. With a combination of local forecast and your growing knowledge, you can often second-guess the computergenerated wind models and get an idea of what to expect a long ahead of time. Jeremy Lund is lead instructor and owner of New Wave Kiteboarding at Sailfish Marina in Stuart, FL. (561) 633-9362 NewWaveKiteboarding.com
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COOK YOUR CATCH!
Pompano Almondine INGREDIENTS: • • • • • • • • • •
1/2 cup sliced almonds 4 tablespoons butter, melted 4 (6-ounce) pompano fillets 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper sea salt to taste ground black pepper to taste 1 cup rice flour 1/2 cup butter 1/4 cup lemon juice 1/4 cup flat leaf parsley, chopped
DIRECTIONS: 1. Heat oven to 375 degrees F. 2. Place sliced almonds and 4 tablespoons butter in ovenproof dish; roast for 7 minutes or until golden. 3. Remove from oven and set aside. 4. Sprinkle fillets with seasonings then dredge in flour. 5. Melt 1/2 cup butter in shallow skillet over medium-high heat; add fillets and cook 3-5 minutes per side until cooked through. 6. Remove fillets from pan and keep warm. 7. Add toasted almonds, lemon juice and parsley to butter in the skillet; mix well then spoon over cooked fillets. 8. Serve dish with grilled or roasted Florida vegetables. See more at: www.freshfromflorida.com/ Recipes/Seafood/
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FEBRUARY 2017
TREASURE COAST 17
1/16/17 11:05 PM
TREASURE COAST CASTERS RECAPS
T
Junior Division January From the Shore Tournament
reasure Coast Casters held its Junior Division monthly from the shore tournament on January 15, a little behind schedule, due to inclement weather on the day of the regularly scheduled tournament. Tournament organizers said although the bite started off slow, it picked up later in the day and resulted in an assortment of fish—snook, puffers, jacks, an eel and trout—being brought in for weigh-in.
results 1st: Thomas Parramore, of Fort Pierce, 3rd grade, Fairlawn Elementary 2nd: Dillon Furiato, of Port St. Lucie, 1st grade, Manatee Academy 3rd: Brexton Hager, of Fort Pierce, 2nd grade, Weatherbee Elementary
T
Senior Division January Inshore Tournament
reasure Coast Casters like the Junior Division, held its Senior Division monthly inshore tournament on January 15, a week behind schedule, due to inclement weather on the day of the regularly scheduled tournament. A strong bite resulted in fish for everyone, including lots of ladyfish brought in by Ciara Franqui, and 20-plus jacks caught by Nicholas Rosario and Colt Krischke. Unfortunately, neither fish species was on the day’s tournament catch list. Colt did end up with a keeper sheepshead weighing 1.9-pounds, Andrew Evans caught a number of fish including a 1.7-pound sheepshead, and Kaitlyn Ward hauled in a few, including a 1.11-pound sheepshead.
MIDDLE School Division 1st: Kaitlyn Ward, of Fort Pierce, 65 points 2nd: Colt Krischke, of Fort Pierce, 15 points 3rd Place: No fish weighed
High School Division
The biggest fish of the tournament, a 1.8-pound Junior trophy winners Dillon Furiato, trout, was caught by Emmett Mounts, Thomas Parramore Emmett, earning him a and Brexton Hager. trophy, goody bag, and a PHOTO CREDITS: Treasure Coast Casters. Fishing Center gift card. Jacob and Christian Roldan were welcomed to the group, and two former members, John and Theresa Gilson were welcomed back. The next Junior Division from the shore tournament will be held March 12, 2017. For more details contact Cammie or Joe Ward at (772) 201-5773, or visit the Treasure Coast Casters Facebook page.
1st: Andrew Evans, of Ft. Pierce, 30 points 2nd and 3rd: No fish weighed
January Senior Division trophy winners Colt Krischke, Andrew Evans and Kaitlyn Ward.
The biggest fish of the tournament went to Kaitlyn Ward for her 1.11-pound sheepshead. She took home a trophy, a Fishing Center gift card, and a Melanie’s Tanglemasters’ $50 gift certificate. The next Senior Division inshore tournament will be held on February 12. For more details contact Cammie or Joe Ward at (772) 201-5773, or visit the Treasure Coast Casters Facebook page. Cammie & Capt. Joe Ward, Treasure Coast Casters (772) 201-5773 • www.treasurecoastcasters.org
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Florida Fish and Wildlife
Real Estate for the Serious Angler!
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No one knows Sebastian area properties suited for anglers better than Capt. Gus Brugger.
FWC PHOTO CREDIT: FWC.
A bullseye snakehead.
After 25 years of guiding anglers to trophy catches, let him use his extensive “local knowledge” to guide you to your next Fisherman Friendly Home.
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Fishbrain app to help FWC track nonnative freshwater fish The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) plans to crowdsource data on nonnative freshwater fish species in Florida by partnering with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) and Fishbrain – the world’s largest app and social network for anglers. The FWC has provided a list of nonnative species of interest in the Sunshine State, which will equip Fishbrain’s users with the necessary information to log sightings of these species when they come across them. Florida is the pilot state to use Fishbrain technology to help land managers better understand the extent and impact of nonnative aquatic species. Following the Florida campaign, Fishbrain and the Service hope to build on the pilot project in other areas of the country through partnerships with state conservation organizations. With a better understanding of the extent of these species in the environment, resource managers will be able to develop effective tools to monitor nonnative species and prevent them from further damaging the biodiversity of ecosystems across the nation. The Fishbrain app allows users to log catches by recording the location, time, species and a picture of their catch. In December, FWC invited the 250,000 Florida-based users of the Fishbrain app to log catches of 15 different types of nonnative fish in the Florida ecosystem. The FWC promotes the consumptive use of these exotic fish instead of releasing them back into the wild. The exotic species list consists of Rio Grande cichlid, Jack Dempsey, blackchin tilapia, bullseye snakehead,
clown knifefish, jaguar guapote, Mayan cichlid, spotted tilapia, Nile tilapia, banded cichlid, common carp, pacu, flathead catfish, blue catfish and green sunfish. More information on each species can be found at Fishbrain.com External Website and MyFWC.com/nonnatives. “Anglers come face-to-face with the natural world on a daily basis, and so their hobby relies on maintaining a respectful, sustainable balance with nature. Many of our users are highly aware of the threat to biodiversity posed by invasive species, and so are eager to involve themselves in projects such as this,” said Johan Attby, CEO of Fishbrain. “As the success of our previous conservation initiatives has shown, our users are vigilant, industrious and passionate when it comes to helping protect the ecological balance. We look forward to the success of the project in Florida, before hopefully rolling it out in other states across the country.” Florida, often dubbed “Fishing Capital of the World,’ is Fishbrain’s biggest market with over 250,000 users. Fishbrain has nearly 3 million users worldwide, with over half of them from the United States. Sarah Funck, FWC’s nonnative fish and wildlife program coordinator remarked, “Information we receive from this large user group will help our efforts to document and manage these species throughout the state.” The Fishbrain app is available for download at the Apple Store or Google Play. For more information about nonnative fish and other nonnative species in Florida, visit MyFWC.com/Nonnative.
Call Capt. Gus Brugger! Check Out Sebastian & Vero Beach, Exit 156 off I-95 RE/MAX Crown Realty 1603 US Highway 1, Sebastian, FL 32958 Phone: (772) 360-6787 Email: captaingusrealtor@gmail.com www.WelcomeToSebastian.com
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PHOTO CREDIT: Bonefish and Tarpon Trust.
THE SEA DOESN’T … E IS M O R P COM
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376 CANYON R242
racticing proper catch and release is an important part of being a good steward of the flats fisheries. How you handle fish in a catch and release fishery has an impact, and can make a difference in whether a fish survives or not post-release. Just because a fish swims away from the boat doesn't mean they are in the clear! These tips are based primarily on our research on bonefish, but can also be applied to tarpon, permit and other flats species.
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• Minimize handling since this can remove protective slime from the fish. • If you handle a fish, make sure you use clean, wet hands. Dry hands or hands covered in sunscreen are much more likely to remove fish slime and cause infections. • Support the fish beneath the head and belly. Don't hold fish with one hand! • Minimize Air Exposure. Bonefish exposed to air for more than 15 seconds are six-time more likely to die post-release. • Don't use mechanical lipgripping devices on active fish. They can cause serious jaw injuries. If you need to weigh a fish, use a cradle. • Keep fingers away from the fish's gills. Damaged gills make it very hard for a fish to breathe. • Keep tarpon over 40" fork length in the water. Research has shown that fish over 40" are susceptible to handling, which is why Florida passed a law that they must remain in the water. It's good practice for everyone.
Hooks
• Always use barbless hooks. This reduces the amount of handling needed to remove the hook, and
makes it less likely the hook will get stuck. • When fishing with bait, use circle hooks. • If the fish swallows the hook or fly, cut the line as close to the hook as possible. This causes less damage than removing a deeply set hook, and most fish are able to reject the hook or it dissolves over time.
Fight Time
• Keep the fight short, but not TOO short. Long fight times result in exhausted fish, which are more vulnerable to predators. A fish reeled in too quickly is more likely to thrash around and potentially injure itself. • Use tackle that matches the fish and conditions. If you use too light a rod, you will have a hard time landing fish in an appropriate amount of time. • If a fish loses equilibrium (rolls over or goes nose down) revive it until it can swim upright. Reduce the fight time on future fish. • When reviving a fish, be sure water passes over the gills from front to back. Moving a fish backwards doesn't allow it to breathe. Always move fish forward (moving them in circles works well). • Reduce fight and handling time in warmer water as high water temperatures may negatively impact post-release survival.
Predators
• If predators are abundant in an area, move to another fishing location. • Consider using a circulating live-well to move fish to a safer release location if you have caught a fish and potential predators are nearby. SOURCE: Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (www.bonefishtarpontrust.org)
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COASTAL ANGLER Treasure Coast FEBRUARY Day
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FEBRUARY 2017
Go Fly A Kite! By Chase Cornell
K
Author Chase Cornell (R) and friend Lange Sykes with a tuna caught kite fishing off Ft. Pierce.
best in particular winds. Keeping the kite in the air and not in the water is the most important part of the entire operation. Rigging your fishing rods up with kite leaders should consist of a small solid ring, orange float, 1/4-to-1/2ounce egg weight and bead above a snap swivel. Below the snap is 15-feet of 60-pound mono leader, a 6-inch to 12-inch trace of #4-to#6 wire attached with an improved albreit knot and a 5/0-8/0 inline tournament circle hook. Start by letting your kite out to the first clip. Make sure the tension on the clip is set, clip the solid ring into the clip and make sure the reel is in free spool with the clicker on. Let the kite out to the second clip before securing a bait to your hook. Hook the bait through the top of the back, toss it in the water and reel up the slack. Repeat this process until you have three baits out. Prime areas to kite fish include areas with rips, current changes, weed lines or areas with defined bottom structure. Start out by flying one kite with one bait. As your confidence in the process improves, add in additional baits and kites. Remember, you can also fish flat line baits and bottom baits on the other side of the boat. Kite fishing will allow you to catch more fish and burn less gas and that is something everyone can appreciate!
ite fishing is widely recognized in South Florida and the Florida Keys as the most effective and efficient way to target sailfish. Although the Gulf Stream current does not cut as close to shore on the Treasure Coast, kite fishing is still extremely effective. A day of kite fishing on the Treasure Coast should start at local artificial reefs and buoys. Use sabiki rigs to catch blue runners, goggle eyes, greenies and sardines, all favorite offerings of sailfish. Have several spots to catch bait for kite fishing. Having a variety of live bait will improve your fishing experience. In order to fly a kite you will need either a conventional reel, such as a Penn Senator, or power assist electric reel, like the Diawa Tancom Bull. Pair the reel to a short, slick butt kite rod and 65-to-80-pound braided line. To rig the kite rod, you will need a Tigress Trading Kite Release Kit, which includes 3 release clips, 2 wind-on swivels, 1 small barrel swivel and 1 large barrel swivel. The swivels are spaced out sequentially (approximately 60 feet apart) on the line with the smallest swivel closest to the tag end where a snap swivel is tied on and the kite is attached. Once the kite is attached, make sure that the kite bridle is tangle free. The kite bridle is adjustable and changes the amount of wind the kite Chase lives in Vero Beach and loves to catches, in turn impacting the height fish and write about his adventures. at which the kite flies. Take time to Read more of his fishing escapades learn your kite bridle and how it flies at bitepress.wordpress.com.
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Chase ell (R) riend Sykes a tuna ht kite ng off erce.
Josh Partin and Donnie Gribble placed second. PHOTO CREDITS: Backcountry Fishing Association..
2017 Season opener
T
First-place winners Lewis Arnold and Jason Bailey.
he first series of the ten-tournament Backcountry Fishing Association season kicked off on January 7 with 35 boats fishing under windy and cool conditions. The artificial lure tournament gives two-person teams and solo anglers the opportunity to win cash and gain points in the nine monthly tournaments with a classic finale in October. Redfish, trout and snook (seasonal) are the qualified species. Anglers attempt to bring one legal fish of each species to the scales for weigh in and a live release. Teams must fish a minimum of five tournaments and pay entry fees to at least eight tournaments to be eligible to fish the ending “Classic”, which is a two-day event. The top five eligible teams with the highest accumulated points from the season will be given a
bye from day one and automatically entered for day two. The remaining eligible teams will compete on an elimination basis the first day, with the top five teams from day one moving on to compete for the grand prize and cash for the top four teams. Anglers were informed at the Captain's meeting that this season would be like no other! A Billfish 14-foot boat, motor and trailer combo is the grand prize for the 2017 top team.
1.27-pound trout and a 5.2-pound redfish. They also took $130 for the biggest redfish Calcutta. • Darren Frost and Derek Engle, of Spring Hill, FL, took the third-place prize of $252 with a 1.62-pound trout and a 3.95-pound redfish. • Fourth-place went to Cross Fischer and Ryan Harris, both of Wellington, FL, with a 3.38-pound trout and 2.18-pound redfish. • Chris Damon and Kyle Schacht, both of Vero Beach, took fifth-place and the biggest trout Calcutta prize of $150 for their 2.37-pound trout and 3.18-pound redfish.
The second tournament of the Backcountry Fishing Association is slated for February 4th, with the Captain’s Meeting scheduled for Friday, January 2017 Results • Lewis Arnold and Jason Bailey, both of Vero February 3, 6 p.m. at Little Jim Bait and Tackle, 601 Beach, took the first-place prize of $630 with a North Causeway, Fort Pierce, Florida. 6.13-pound trout and 2.14-pound redfish. For more information, visit Backcountry • Josh Partin and Donnie Gribble, both of Vero Fishing Association on Facebook. Beach, took the second-place prize of $378 with a
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Email your information ality and high-qu rger) (500KB or la @ easurecoast photos to tr e.com. lerMagazin CoastalAng
Cherlyn Arnold with a 31-inch snook caught with a live pin fish in December just before the season closed at the Sebastian Inlet. It was her first and only snook of the 2016 season. Photo CREDIT: Lewis Arnold.
Emory caught this sheepshead on a shrimp with her new pink rod and reel from the Snook Nook on January 1, just south of Nettles Island. Photo CREDIT: Megan Jantz.
Thomas caught this jack fishing with the grandpa Joe recently.
Megan caught this small dolphin out of the St. Lucie Inlet on a flat day in 120-feet of water.
Photo CREDIT: Capt. Charlie Conner.
Photo PROVIDED by Jeremy Jantz.
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Savannah Ward with a nice black drum. Photo CREDIT: Capt. Joe Ward.
A 50-inch tarpon caught in Stuart, FL, on a Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnow. Photo CREDIT: Chris Sharp.
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O
ne of the first things any angler can improve to catch more fish without getting new gear is to increase his casting distance. The first adjustment to make is the “spool tension” knob on the right hand side of any baitcaster. With the lure just hanging from the end of the rod tip, first tighten the knob, then release your thumb and slowly unscrew the tension knob until the lure just begins to fall. On the left side plate, you’ll see the centrifugal brake external setting. If you are new to throwing a baitcasting reel, start with a setting of about 4-6. If you have an internal centrifugal brake, set at least two brakes “out / engaged.” If you want to cast far, you have to make a powerful, rod-loading, casting stroke. It’s compact and uses 2 hands. It’s not a big one-armed cast. Tighten the spool tension knob about a quarter turn and practice casting hard. Once you’re throwing your hardest without backlash, slowly begin loosening the settings and feathering the spool edge a little. Slowly adjust the centrifugal brake setting looser, one click, or one brake, to maximize cast distance. Then slightly re-adjust the spool tension knob. In the end, I find that I can still adjust slightly lighter and manually feather the spool edge with the thumb. This is where you’ll get your longest cast distances. Cast hard my friends. Tobin Strickland (aka TroutSupport) is a field staff angler for Lews Reels.
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Marsh Harbour, Abaco features its share of quaint resorts, including the Abaco Beach Resort and Boat Harbour Marina the Sandpiper Inn and Cottage and Four Winds Cottages. Treasure Cay boasts the luxury Treasure Cay Beach, Marina and Golf Resort, a highend spot frequented by celebrities. Out on the flats, the water is still, a perfect mirror reflecting the cloudy sky. It is a gorgeous day to bonefish. Albury maneuvers through the flats like only a native could. He swerves through tightly packed mangroves at breakneck speeds until we reach the spot. At that moment, he cuts the engine and begins poling the boat. I sit at the bow, rod in hand with shrimp for bait. Albury surveys the waters and points out a bonefish at my two-o’clock. I cast my line but miss. “Throw it out again,” Albury says. I cast again and reel it in just enough. Suddenly, a splash on the surface and a tight line tell me the fish has the bait. We fight for a moment until I reel him to the edge of the boat. Albury grabs him and turns him on his back sending the fish into a catatonic state. There is excitement onboard. As we surveyed for another catch, I explained to Albury that my father is a bonefish guide in Crooked Island. “I love fishing,” I say to him. “You know if you love fishing once you hook a fish,” Albury says. “If that doesn’t excite you, nothing will.” Interested fishermen can reach Jody at jodysbonefishing.com.
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e set out on a small boat shortly after 8 a.m. on a warm Wednesday morning. For Jody Albury, this is just another day of bonefishing in Abaco, Bahamas. He’s been a professional guide for 10 years, but an avid fisherman since he was a boy. Jody, a quiet yet jovial Abaconian, has serviced fishing enthusiast from the around the world. He quit his day job to make a living doing what he loves, bonefishing. Abaco, one of the 700 islands of The Bahamas, is regarded as one of the world’s premier destinations for bonefishing. Thousands of anglers descend on the Abacos during the winter months in search of the elusive gray ghost. The island and its cays are in the northeast Bahamas 91 miles northeast of Nassau, Bahamas, a 20-minute plane ride, and 120 miles from Miami or an hour plane ride with flights from American Eagle and Silver Airways, to name a few. The Abacos are made up of nearly a dozen cays. Unlike most other islands in The Bahamas, visitors can take a ferry to the various cays including Hope Town, Green Turtle Cay and Great Guana Cay. Some rent yachts or other boats and sail the cays themselves. My first stop in Abaco was Hope Town with its scenic beaches and historic candy striped lighthouse. Hope Town features a small community where most everyone moves around by golf cart or bicycle. The island is quiet yet filled with life, hotels, small properties and bed and breakfasts. The architecture features colonial design, a lingering tradition from the Loyalists who settled in the Abacos centuries ago. Hope Town fuses rustic charm with modern advances. It’s easy to sit on a hammock under two palm trees and watch Netflix.
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By Paul Lebowitz
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n nearly 20 years of kayak fishing, I’ve seen the boats radically change. These days they are purpose-built for angling, and much more stable and forgiving. On the other hand, the thinking on what makes a good kayak rod has scarcely evolved. There’s been little need. For most applications, off-the-shelf gear made for the general fishing market works fine. A standard bass or flats quiver will suit you well whether you’re fishing from a ’yak, a powerboat or the shore, although the adjustable butt of Manley Rods’ offerings is a nice feature. It’s only when you get to big game that the need for specialized kayak sticks is magnified. Let’s cover the big exception: the rod tip. When landing a fish from a kayak, you’d do well to have some glass for shock absorption. High-sticking is almost inevitable. Most big game kayak anglers fight their fish while sitting. An intermediate length butt is an advantage, something on the order of 12 to 13 inches, about 2 to 4 inches shorter than normal. That’s just right for tucking into your belly while seated. A strong backbone is a plus for easier fish management, particularly when the battle is in its closing stages. Rod length is a matter of preference. It’s nice to have enough reach to get the tip around the bow, but it isn’t strictly necessary. If you’re hooked up and you point your rod tip at the bow, the fish will pull the kayak around to face it.
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COOL WATER SUSPENDERS
water, but they will still have an eye on what’s going on, as a prey in their stomach is still necessary to fuel them. What I like to do is fish slowly, twitching suspending baits once or twice between long pauses. And sometimes these pauses are truly long pauses. I’ve found that’s one thing most people have a hard time doing. Most are unable to pass the two or three second mark without feeling the need to twitch their bait again. When I’m on a spot that’s worth it, or if I catch a By Patrick Sebile glimpse of a nice fish, I will hold my suspending Stick Shadd still for up to 30 seconds. It might feel like an eternity; it might feel worthless, but some of my best inshore catches came on such long, 15- to 30-second pauses. I keep the rod tip down close to the water, and I don’t rely on feeling a bite. I leave a little slack in my line, no more than 6 or 8 inches, and watch the line very closely. Most of the time the bite is just a tiny tap that is hard to feel but very easy to see on the line. If the line moves just an inch or two, that’s it. Set the hook without delay. You might be surprised at the trophy fish you’ll catch with such minimal action. Another technique that produces well for me on cold water is simply to cast and retrieve my suspending twitch bait super slowly. I sometimes retrieve it so slowly that it This nice trout was caught in Vero Beach, Fla. on a suspending Stick Shadd 114 using won’t even have any side-to-side action at all. Yep, you very minimal action and long pauses. read that right. Just the lure moving through the water straight ahead and slowly is the right presentation on o matter where you are in North America, winter brings cold winds some days. In cold water it will often out-produce the and sore throats to all. And the effect is even more brutal on fish than typical action-packed movement of this type of bait. men. Immersed in the water, in an unstable environment that changes It may seem surprising, but it’s efficient. In both cases, a suspending bait quickly, they have no choice but to exist the best they can where they are. is key, as well as the patience and confidence to resist working it too quickly There’s no option for fish to go on a cruise in the Bahamas to tan their or erratically. scales in the tropical sun. And the shallow-water inhabitants feel the impact Patrick Sebile is the owner and lure designer of Sebile Innovative Fishing even more than the deep-water ones, given that the skinny depth they live (www.sebile.com). in can drop in temperature sharply. Their behavior can turn sluggish, but For more tips on cold water fishing, go to they still need to feed. It is therefore crucial to adjust the lure’s action to their temperature-driven mood. Airline_Ad_CoastalAngler_8-1-14_Layout 1 8/1/14 1:14 PM Page 1 Seatrout and redfish will dive into grass to limit their exposure to colder
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By Brandon Tourigny Brandon Tourigny with an Everglades bass caught on a Lefty’s Deceiver.
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f all the different methods of fishing, fly fishing has a reputation for being one of the more overpriced methods for landing fish. With all of the extremely high-end rod and reel brands in the fly fishing world, it can be a little disheartening for those trying to get started. As a broke college student who has to also buy food, gas and textbooks, purchasing the newest Sage rod and Tibor reel just wasn’t in the budget for me. Since not fly fishing wasn’t an option, I had to find ways to get quality gear at a more reasonable price. Here are a few brands I personally like that have proven to be affordable and reliable pieces of equipment for me. Temple Fork Outfitters produces some fine rods for the money. With all their rods ranging from under $100 to around $450 for their most expensive rod, it’s not hard to find a rod in their line that fits your budget. A rod I highly recommend is the TFO Mangrove. This rod comes in sizes from a 4 weight all the way up to a 12 weight, costing anywhere from $250 to $300. Another thing TFO has going for them is their no-nonsense lifetime warranty. A good warranty is something a lot of fly rod makers provide, and it is an important consideration because rods break. For reels, the best deal I’ve seen are actually some of the off-brand reels found on Amazon and produced by brands like Piscifun or WetFly. The thing about fly reels is you don’t need them to cast. Until you get a fish on and need a smooth drag or to pick up line quickly, all they do is store line. If your targets are panfish, small bass or seatrout, it’s likely you will seldom even need a reel except to hold your line. On the other hand, if you expect to do battle with bonefish, tarpon or redfish, a good reel becomes very important. Although they don’t carry the prestige of the American-made reel companies, reels like the Piscifun Sword are made from 100 percent CNC machined aluminum, and based on my experience and the testimony of other fly fishermen, these reels hold up considerably well. When you also factor in that most of these reels come in under $100, it’s hard to find a reason to not at least give these reels a try. If you are a stickler for only buying American products, I would suggest taking a look at the Waterworks-Lamson Liquid and Remix which both come in at $160 or less and are both assembled in Lamson’s factory in Idaho. At the end of the day, fish don’t care how shiny or expensive your equipment is. The only thing that matters is if you can present a fly to them in a manner realistic enough for them to eat it. So, if you’ve been hit by this incurable disease called fly fishing but can’t afford the high prices, there’s no need to fear thanks to affordable and highperforming rods and reels
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UNDER THE SEA
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SHERI DAYE
peargun selection is one of the most hotly debated topics on spearfishing forums. Fortunately, there are many great brands nowadays – such as Wong, AB Biller, Riffe, Hammerhead, Cressi, SEAC, Mares, Rob Allen, Koah, Mako, JBL and more. Over the last century, spearfishing equipment has evolved from very simple muscle-powered slings and polespears, made with wood and rubber bands, to the modern-day spearguns equipped with a trigger mechanism and more exotic materials. Interestingly, slings and polespear are making a comeback—but that’s a topic for another month—so let’s concentrate on how to select a modern-day speargun. If you walk into your local dive shop, you will notice there are two main categories of band-powered spearguns: the American style, usually recognized by the wood stock, and the Eurogun, which has a tubular shaped barrel and a rear handle. The Eurogun originated in Europe where most spearfishing is freedive-only, fairly deep, and for small, easily spooked fish. Hence these spearguns have a low-profile, streamlined design and thinner shafts. If you are diving in similar conditions, the Eurogun style might be for you. On the other hand, if you want a sturdy, durable and easy-to-load gun that will handle bigger fish, you might lean toward the American/wood-style gun. This is also the style used for big powerful tuna guns, because they can be ballasted and accommodate up to six bands. There’s also a hybrid design, which incorporates the best elements of both with wood stock in the back and a carbon fiber tube in the front. Once you’ve chosen between styles, the next question is length. Most Eurogun sizes are 90 to 160 centimeters, and most American guns are between 36 and 65 inches. So, with the conversion from centimeters to inches, they have pretty much the same length range. If you are diving in low visibility or hunting in rocks like they have in California or Rhode Island, you would choose a shorter gun. If you are hunting spooky fish in clear waters like mutton snappers in Florida, you would opt for a longer gun. If you are just getting started and expect to dive in variable visibility, 130 centimeters or 50 inches would be a good medium length for an all-around reef gun.
Sheri Daye hunts with a Wong Hybrid Speargun. Photo by Joe Marino.
Here are some additional tips: 1) Join a local spearfishing club and learn from the more experienced people. Observe what equipment they use and ask for advice. 22) Shop at a dive store that caters to spearfishing. They carry more choices and have experienced personnel to help you choose. These include Austin’s in Miami; Florida Freedivers in Palm Beach; James & Josephs in San Diego, Calif.; Freedive Shop in Sacramento, Calif. and more. 3) Check out the custom-gun builders. There are some high-quality builders who will work with you directly, give you advice, and design it to your specs—such as Wong Spearguns from Hawaii or Sea Sniper from California. Most importantly, you should pick a style that suits you and the conditions you dive in. Chances are you will get hooked and add more spearguns to your arsenal in the future! Follow “Sheri Daye” & “The Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo” April 22-23, 2017 – Ft. Lauderdale - Instagram and Facebook.
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TIPS FROM A PRO
FRESHWATER THE REBIRTH OF 8- TO 10FOOT BASS RODS BRANDON LESTER
E
ver since I can remember, there has been a rule in B.A.S.S. tournaments barring the use of rods longer than 8 feet. To my knowledge, it is because Dee Thomas and other Californians were using 10-foot and longer rods for “flipping” when the technique was first invented. Evidently the powersthat-be back then didn’t like this new way of fishing, so they banned the use of long rods. At the conclusion of 2016, B.A.S.S. decided to change this rule and allow us to use any rod up to 10 feet in length. Bass fishing has evolved
they fight. The extra rod length will help keep the line tight during the fight, giving the fish less opportunity to escape. For the small wooden crankbaits, the longer rod gives control over how deep the bait dives. Hold the rod tip up, and the bait dives shallower. Stick a couple feet of the blank in the water, and it runs deeper. Add longer casting distance and you will be hitting depths never before achieved with some baits. A longer rod will also be beneficial for flipping and pitching. We all know what
tremendously in the past several years, and there is no doubt this rule change will be another big breakthrough. Will long rods become the norm in everyone’s boat? I don’t think so, but I believe these rods will have a time and place in bass fishing. I have been busy building and testing a few of these longer rods with the guys at Mud Hole Custom Tackle. We’ve made encouraging findings. The first long rod I built is a 8’6” medium power spinning rod. I wanted a rod to cast small, wooden crankbaits on light line for more distance. I also wanted this rod to act as a drop shot rod for open-water smallmouth fishing. Although I don’t see myself using this rod all the time for drop shotting, imagine a scenario where you are casting a drop shot in current and need that extra length to control the way the line drifts. Also, anyone who has ever fought a river smallmouth knows how hard
happens when we set the hook on a 12-inch bass with a 7’6” rod, well imagine what will happen when you set the hook on one with a 9-foot flipping stick. We’ll be jerking 3-pounders out of the thickest cover! When that 10-pounder bites, she might not be the one that got away anymore. There might be cases where a long flipping rod is more efficient, as well. The technique of flipping, as it was done originally, by stripping line through the guides and never using the reel, will probably come back to light because we can now use a rod long enough put a bait where it needs to go. I will be building a long flipping stick before the elite series heads to Lake Okeechobee. What better place to try it out than the land of the giants? Keep tabs on 8-foot-plus rod building by visiting www. MudHole.com, and hit me up on Facebook with any questions.
Get more tips from Lester at
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SPRUCE UP AND SUPER-TUNE YOUR REELS BossmanBoats_.25_0716.indd 1
T
ackle geeks have climbed high rungs of reel optimization for decades. Their basic game remains the same today: super-tune fishing reels by adding premium components and applying best cleaning and maintenance practices. But better materials and technology have elevated expectations of what fishing reels can be made to do. Russ Lane, who has earned six appearances in the Bassmaster Classic, took his habitual tackle tinkering to high-tech heights several seasons back. Lane today replaces standard reel parts with premium components that extend reel life and enable spools to spin at dazzling RPMs. What’s the fisherman’s takeaway after these reel transformations? The clearest advantages are longer casting distances, better control, heightened casting accuracy, and improved feel and sensitivity. Some premium reel components—strikingly colorful multi-textured reel knobs and anodized star drags and cast control caps, for example—can practically turn reels into showpieces, too. “Fishermen can’t believe what custom components can add to a reel’s capability,” said Noah Arroyo, owner of Off the Hook Reels. “And some fishermen are just as attracted to the unique colors and finishes you can bring to a reel and the rich look of premium parts.” Consider replacing standard reel parts with these upgrades: • Ceramic bearings – Ceramic bearings or ceramic hybrid bearings (the latter feature ceramic balls in a stainless steel or plastic cage) can elevate reel performance dramatically. Ceramic bearings can range up to 60 percent lighter than stainless steel bearings. They generate less heat and lower vibration levels, too, reducing friction as the spool revolves. Spool RPMs may climb dramatically, extending casting distance and improving accuracy by reducing the effort required to execute a cast. They also possess five times the life expectancy of stainless steel bearings. The one downside is that they produce a very audible hum, a turn-off to some anglers. HawgTech promotes its ABEC-7 hybrid bearings in nylon cages as allowing “a more free spinning bearing that also runs quieter.” • Carbon Fiber Reel Handles – Lightweight carbon fiber reel arms are
the most common reel upgrade. The difference in weight and sensitivity from conventional reel handles is discernible. They also give a sleek, skeletal look to the reel. • Winn Reel Knobs – Reel knobs made from Winn’s patented WinnDry polymer deliver the same all-weather “tacky” feel and security that Winn grips bring to fishing rods. “The Winn knobs available from HawgTech are so good, your grip never slips even when hands are wet or coated with fish slime,” said Arroyo. Two of Lew’s Best of Show awards at ICAST 2016 featured fishing reels with Winn reel knobs. HawgTech offers these knobs in several bold colors. • Anodized Aluminum Star Drags, Cast Control Caps – Colorful anodized aluminum can give a reel an “auto show” glow. You can go with matching or complementary color options for star drag controls, cast control caps and related parts. Maintenance steps: Of course, flashy parts alone won’t optimize reel performance. Make sure the internal workings of your reel are flawlessly cleaned and lubricated, too. “You have to optimize everything when you super-tune. Polish and clean ends and shafts and pinion gears,” said Arroyo. “When you do and then add your ceramic bearings and premium parts, you really end up with a great piece of machinery.”
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TAUTEN LINEWELDER Sick of having to learn and tie complex knots? The Tauten LineWelder creates a weld that is actually stronger than any knot. The device creates a “sleeve” of thermoplastic polymer around both ends of a looped line, holding the loop in place without bending or weakening the line. Knots weaken the line, and most lines’ strengths are rated with a knot, so using a Tauten LineWelder in place of tying a knot lets you get a connection that’s stronger than the advertised strength of most lines! The process is quick, easy, consistent and doesn’t require you to tie complicated knots. It’s perfect for new fishermen or veteran anglers who don’t want to bother with finicky knot tying. Just loop the line in the device, pull it taut and push the button to create a weld. This device can help fishermen who don’t want to tie complicated knots by removing the need entirely and allowing anglers to focus on the sport they love. The LineWelder works best on 10- to 12-pound-test monofilament nylon and fluorocarbon lines and 10- to 50-pound-test braided lines. Using an experimental technique, it can even join braided lines with monofilament nylon or fluorocarbon leaders to eliminate the need for a swivel. Accessories to weld a wider variety of lines are currently in development and will be available in the future. Visit tauten.com for more information and to see videos of the LineWelder in action. The Tauten customer service staff is always eager to answer any questions, so don’t hesitate to contact them.
WWW.TAUTEN.COM
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UR-Cut
Fillet Knives
The only custom moldable handle fillet knife.
Ergonomically perfect. Virtually non-slip. Unmatched comfort. Unmatched control. Takes minutes to do.
UR-Cut features the same legendary DEXSTEEL, super-sharp edge, and just-right flexibility that you are used to with Dexter... 1.Dip handle in boiling water for 2 minutes. 2. Dip in cold water for 1 second. 3. Grip and form handle for 10 seconds. 4. Put back in cold water for 10 seconds and your done.
DEXTER UR-CUT FILLET KNIFE Dexter UR-Cut Fillet knives are the only fillet knives that allow you to custom mold the handle to your hand. UR-Cut provides the ultimate in comfort and control and is virtually non-slip in your hand. It’s simple and takes only minutes to customize UR-Cut to fit your hand. First, grip the handle and determine your grip position, paying attention to your thumb position. Dip and completely submerge the handle in boiling water for 2 minutes. Make sure the pot is deep enough so the handle does not contact the bottom or the sides of the pot. Then dip in cold water for 1 second, grip, squeeze, and hold the handle for 10 seconds. Dip back in cold water for 10 seconds and let cool. You now have a custom fillet knife, molded to fit your hand. Just like other Dexter knives, UR-Cut features the same legendary DEXTSTEEL blade, with super-sharp edges that are easy to re-sharpen and have just-right flexibility. UR-Cut fillet knives are made in the U.S.A. and are available in 6”, 7” and 8” lengths. Available at your local and online retailer. For more information and to view all Dexter fishing knives visit dexteroutdoors.com.
WWW.DEXTEROUTDOORS.COM
dexteroutdoors.com
NEVER WAX AGAIN! RESTORE AND PROTECT YOUR BOAT Poli Glow does what wax can’t! As seen on Ship Shape TV
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“Recommending Poli Glow is a no brainer.” - PRACTICAL SAILOR, the #1 consumer resource of the U.S. boating industry
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THE ONLY LURE WITH THE PATENTED
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• Jet Trail • Action Lip • Rattle Chamber • Works with all predatory fish 386•310•7165 • Designed and tested by fisherman PiranaFishingLures.com
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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FISH & FISHING
A DIFFERENT APPROACH MARK SOSIN
A
small sign on the corner of my attorney’s desk warns his clients to “Assume Nothing.” That caveat is just as valid on the water as it is in the practice of law. If an angler does not start catching fish within minutes of arriving at a spot, he begins to assume that his quarry must be elsewhere. The assumption, of course, is that he has chosen the right bait or lure and presented it in a natural and appealing manner to a fish that is ready to eat. A fish’s behavioral patterns, honed over eons, follow very specific guidelines with few deviations. Anything that differs from the norm instinctively alerts a fish that something may be amiss and it thinks of its own safety first. Regardless of size, a predator does not expect to be charged or attacked by its prey no matter how small the prey is in relation to the predator. That’s why a 3-inch fly made of feathers can spook a 100-pound fish. And remember that fish do not feed constantly for a variety of reasons. Most species use tidal currents, water flow, or the neck of a funnel to their advantage as they search for food. They either hold facing the current, swim against the flow, or work across it. Whenever you present a bait or lure, it should be upcurrent from where you expect the fish to be so that your offering appears to go with the flow. That tenet even applies when you are casting to a cruising fish. The more natural the presentation, the better the chance of a strike. Your quarry automatically measures energy tradeoff. The idea is to exploit each situation so they will expend the least amount of energy for the value received. That translates into the fact that they frequently refuse to chase a bait or lure very far before turning away. An ambush feeder merely wants to dart out, grab its prey and return to its lair. Bottom denizens follow a similar practice. If your offering isn’t close to the sea floor, it’s difficult to get them to swim toward the surface to get it. Successful bottom bouncing starts upcurrent and allows the bait to drag along in the productive zone. Once it sweeps above the quarry, the potential for getting a strike diminishes rapidly. Water temperature enters the energy tradeoff equation. In cold or even cool water, fish react sluggishly because the water temperature slows down their metabolism. It might even force them out of their usual lair in search of warmer water. In those situations, choose baits or lures that are easy for a fish to catch and slow down the retrieve or the trolling speed. And remember, in cooler water it takes fish longer to digest food so they feed less frequently. Those who catch fish consistently study and comprehend the basics of feeding strategy. You can be sure that the behavioral patterns of each species are not about to change. That puts the onus on you to modify your tactics until you uncover the combination that works. Before you abandon a spot because you think it doesn’t hold fish, make sure you have explored the full gamut of options. If you do make any assumptions, convince yourself that a fish is looking at your bait or lure right now. The results might surprise you.
For More Mark Sosin Visit
CAMFISHING.COM Fishing Lights Dock Lights Flounder Lights 785-621-2646
fishinglightsetc.com COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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WAHOO “COWBELLS’’ & ‘’SNAGGER’’ DOLPHIN LURES
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NEW INTERLUX MICRON WA BOAT PAINT Micron WA (Water-Activated) is the newest addition to the AkzoNobel’s Interlux industry leading Micron Technology product range. It is a showcase antifouling paint that offers long-lasting, multi-seasonal protection in a water-based formulation. Micron WA combines powerful antifouling performance while reducing impact on the environment, leaving a smooth, clean hull. This paint is ideal for cruise, power and sailboats and suitable for all waters. Using a novel paint technology called Water Activated Matrix, Micron WA delivers a crisp, vibrant color and uniform appearance to provide a striking, attractive finish, while at the same time efficiently releasing the active ingredients to deliver powerful antifouling performance. More information is available at: www.yachtpaint.com/usa/diy/ products/antifouling/micron-wa.aspx
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LIMIT 800-4 purch Offer prese
Cus
IT
LIMIT 800-4 purch Offer prese
Cus
LIMIT 800-4 purch Offer prese
100 SW TR
ITEM 410
SU
$
$
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4000 PEAK/3200 RUNNING WATTS 6.5 HP (212 CC) GAS GENERATORS ITEM 69676/69729/63080/63079 shown ITEM 69675/69728/63090/63089 CALIFORNIA ONLY
212 CC 70 dB ENGINE SUPER QUIET LOW OIL SHUTDOWN
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339$43999 comp at
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49
99
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99
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99 19 $34.95
2.5 HP, 21 GALLON, 125 PSI VERTICAL AIR COMPRESSOR
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ITEM 69091/61454 61693/62803 67847 shown
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39
1000 LB. CAPACITY SWING-BACK TRAILER JACK ITEM 69780 41005 shown
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44", 13 DRAWER INDUSTRIAL QUALITY ROLLER CABINET
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SAVE $65
8999 comp at
$119.99
$149
comp at
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9 9 $17999
• Weighs 245 lbs.
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99
$446.61
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379
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comp at 99 $679.99
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POWDER-FREE NITRILE GLOVES SAVE PACK OF 100
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Item 68498 shown
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SIZE MED LG X-LG
7
ITEM 68496/61363 68497/61360 68498/61359
$ 99
Customer Rating
Includes hook, mirror, magnet accessories, and video-out cable.
2.4" COLOR LCD DIGITAL INSPECTION CAMERA ITEM 61839 62359 shown
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94
$
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99
11999 $179
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ITEM 63056/63057/60405/63094 63150/61524/62322/90984 shown
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10" SLIDING COMPOUND 72" x 80" MOVING BLANKET MITER SAW ITEM 69505/62418/66537 shown SAVE ITEM 61971 61972 98199 shown
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comp at
ITEM 63100
4
$ 97
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comp at
$34.95
SUPER COUPON Customer Rating Weighs 73 lbs.
185 99 $
20"
94 $269.99
comp at
reight.com or by calling our stores or HarborF t or coupon or prior LIMIT 5 - Good at used with other discoun with original receipt. 800-423-2567. Cannot be from original purchase be purchases after 30 dayss last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must day. Offer good while supplie 6/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per presented. Valid through
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LET THE BATTLE BEGIN The Slammer is back! Featuring a full metal body and rotor, IPX6 sealed gear box and spool design, a full Brass CNC Gear system,
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