Coastal Angler Magazine - Jan. / Virgin Islands & Puerto Rico

VIRGIN ISLANDS & PUERTO RICO EDITION

FREE

Banging The Drums Of Houma, La.

Winter

Chrome In Upstate N.Y.

Local

Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events PHOTO COURTESY OF FISHING ADVENTURES WITH BRITTNEY VOLUME 22 • ISSUE 264

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM

F R A N C H I S E

0117_CAM_CVR.indd 35

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

A V A I L A B L E

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

W O R L D W I D E

12/14/16 4:51 PM

BOOST YOUR CATCH w/RezBoostTM Technology

Interested in getting the most out of your own trusted transducer, or not sure you’re ready for the expense of installing a new CHIRP transducer? Furuno has a solution that will get the very best performance from your traditional narrowband transducer.

Our RezBoostTM Fish Finders deliver clearer images than ever before, we’re talking up to 8x sharper. Whether it’s NavNet TZtouch2 or the FCV588/FCV628 stand-alone Fish Finders, RezBoostTM will boost your catch!

Get up to 8x sharper resolution, using a standard narrow band transducer, to more clearly define fish targets.

Assess individual fish size and depth based on echo strength for fish from 4 inches to over 6 feet.

Identify the sea floor composition from four types (Rocks/Sand/Gravel/Mud).

COMMON CVRS_0117.indd 2

www.FurunoUSA.com

12/14/16 2:59 PM

THIS YEAR, MAKE THE MOST OF EVERY DAY ON THE WATER

OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE MATCHED BY EXCEPTIONAL VALUE TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THESE SPECIAL BOAT SHOW OFFERS FROM SUZUKI MARINE

REPOWER FINANCE

Six Years of Protection at no extra charge on all new outboards 25 to 300 HP.

Cash Rebates on select models.

See your dealer for details.

Rates as low as 5.99% on new outboards (OAC).*

Offers end March 31, 2017. See your participating Suzuki Marine dealer for details or visit www.suzukimarine.com.

Gimme Six Extended Protection promo is applicable to new Suzuki Outboard Motors from 25 to 300 HP in inventory which are sold and delivered to buyer between 01/01/17 and 3/31/17 in accordance with the promotion by a Participating Authorized Suzuki Marine dealer in the continental US and Alaska to a purchasing customer who resides in the continental US or Alaska.

Customer should expect to receive an acknowledgement letter and full copy of contract including terms, conditions and wallet card from Suzuki Extended Protection within 90 days of purchase.

If an acknowledgement letter is not received in time period stated, contact Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. – Marine Marketing via email: marinepromo@suz.com. The Gimme Six Promotion is available for pleasure use only, and is not redeemable for cash. Cash Rebates apply to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki Outboard Motors made between 01/01/17 and 3/31/17. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine.com. Customer and participating Dealer must fill out the appropriate rebate form at time of sale. Customer will have the choice to either apply the cash rebate against the original dealer invoice (Suzuki will credit Dealer parts account) or have a check sent directly to the customer. There are no model substitutions, benefit substitutions, rain checks, or extensions. Suzuki reserves the right to change or cancel these promotions at any time without notice or obligation. * Financing offers available through Synchrony Retail Finance. As low as 5.99% APR financing for 60 months on new and unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors. Subject to credit approval. Not all buyers will qualify. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. $19.99/month per $1,000 financed for 60 months is based on 5.99% APR. Hypothetical figures used in calculation; your actual monthly payment may differ based on financing terms, credit tier qualification, accessories or other factors such as down payment and fees. Offer effective on new, unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors purchased from a participating authorized Suzuki dealer between 01/01/17 and 3/31/17.“Gimme Six”, the Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2017 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

NAT_0117.indd 3

SZ_Q1Promo_WIP.indd 1

JANUARY 2017

NATIONAL

3

12/15/16 3:09 PM

12/4/16 1:46 PM

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

™

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

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

Go to bayliner.com to learn more.

Bayliner Boats. All rights reserved.

4©2016NATIONAL JANUARY 2017

NAT_0117.indd 4 16-BAY-003 F21 Ad Coastal Angler.indd 1

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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

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

12/15/16 3:09 PM 12/15/16 1:24 PM

y ct

1:24 PM

BE YOUR OWN BOSS. If you love the outdoors and the Fishing Industry, you owe it to yourself to check out the Franchise Opportunities available with Coastal Angler Magazine and The Angler Magazine.

Make money doing what you love.

FREE

FALL

Bonefishing

Trout

The cuban Flats

Tour

Andros Island, Bahamas

Bass

- Bucket List

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

SOUTHEAST

On Fly

LOCAL

Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events

PHOTO BY GARNER REID, COHUTTA FISHING COMPANY

VOLUME 22 • ISSUE 261

ART DIRECTOR : Rebecca Snowden • graphics@coastalanglermagazine.com

FLORIDA

COME JOIN OUR FRANCHISE TEAM! FREE

EDITOR IN CHIEF : Ben Martin • camads@coastalanglermagazine.com VICE PRESIDENT : Tracy Patterson • tracy@coastalanglermagazine.com

THEANGLERMAG.COM

F R A N C H I S E

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

A V A I L A B L E

W O R L D W I D E

OCTOBER 2016

Local

Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events PHOTO COURTESY OF CAPT. CRAIG KORCZYNSKI - PHLATSINSHOREFISHING.COM VOLUME 22 • ISSUE 261

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM

F R A N C H I S E

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

A V A I L A B L E

OCTOBER 2016

W O R L D W I D E

1016_CAM_CVR.indd 4

9/20/16 4:23 PM

CHECK OUT THESE AVAILABLE FRANCHISE TERRITORIES GREAT LAKES (Expansion launch March 2017)

GULF COAST (Available Now)

SOUTHEAST (Launch March 2017)

• Milwaukee, WI • Detroit, MI • Cleveland, OH

• New Orleans, LA • Lafayette, LA • Corpus Christi, TX • Austin, TX

NEW ENGLAND (Launch March 2017)

FLORIDA (Available Now)

• Raleigh, NC • Charlotte, NC • Savannah, GA • Greenville, SC • Hilton Head, SC • Nashville, TN

• New Hampshire (the entire state) • Maine (the entire state) • Western Massachusetts • Gloucester, MA • Cape Cod, MA

• Naples, FL (existing location – turnkey)

ATLANTA/SW GEORGIA : Bob & Brenda Rice • (706) 614-8231 • bobr@theanglermagazine.com CHARLESTON/COLUMBIA : Eddie Hardgrove • (910) 264-5487 • eddie@coastalanglermagazine.com MOREHEAD : Eddie Hardgrove • (910) 264-5487 • eddie@coastalanglermagazine.com

Brian Slesinski • (910) 797-6093 • brians@coastalanglermagazine.com MYRTLE BEACH : Kenneth & Ana Moore • (843) 446-5777 • kenmoore@coastalanglermagazine.com OUTER BANKS/VIRGINA BEACH : John Tiger • (757) 707-9654 • john.tiger@coastalanglermagazine.com

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

Travis Harper • (912) 266-1430• travis@coastalanglermagazine.com WILMINGTON : Brian Slesinski • (910) 797-6093 • brians@coastalanglermagazine.com

Eddie Hardgrove • (910) 264-5487 • eddie@coastalanglermagazine.com WESTERN NC : Debra & Joe Woody • (828) 775-9663 • woody@theanglermagazine.com

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

GULF COAST

ALABAMA GULF COAST : Sarah Clark • (205) 522-1756 • sarahclark@coastalanglermagazine.com GALVESTON/MATAGORDA/UPPER COAST : Chanci & David Mowry • (713) 446-7395 •

chancim@coastalanglermagazine.com • davidm@coastalanglermagazine.con MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST : Kevin Ogle • (850) 586-3474 • gulf@coastalanglermagazine.com PENSACOLA/EMERALD COAST : Kevin Ogle • (850) 586-3474 • gulf@coastalanglermagazine.com

GREAT LAKES

AND MORE!

• Okeechobee, FL (existing location – turnkey) • Florida Keys (existing location – turnkey)

For More Information

Call (321) 777-2773 or email info@coastalanglermagazine.com

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

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

flahama@coastalanglermagazine.com COSTA RICA : Thomas Hauer, Jr. • (321) 445-1557 • thomash@coastalanglermagazine.com Thomas Hauer • tomh@coastalanglermagazine.com PUERTO RICO/VIRGIN ISLANDS : Ace Bassue • (407) 285-9453 • ace@coastalanglermagazine.com © 2016. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.

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

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

NAT_0117.indd 5

JANUARY 2017

NATIONAL

5

12/15/16 3:09 PM

P ro t e c t i o n . L o n ge v i t y.

E r g o D o c k S u r fa c e s

e r g o d o ck u s a . c o m

844.460.2770 ergonomically elegant dock surfaces G6e tNATIONAL I n v o lv ed: DIY Contractors Dealers JANUARY 2017 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM NAT_0117.indd 6

Lumber Suppliers 12/15/16 3:09 PM

HondaM

Destination Honda

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

GET UP TO 700 OFF SELECT OUTBOARDS! OFFER ENDS JUNE 2. $

*

*Get up to $700 Instant Savings with the purchase of any new 40hp – 250hp Honda Marine outboard, January 3 through June 2, 2017. At participating dealers only. © 2017 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Always wear a personal flotation device while boating and read•your owner’s manual. All Honda outboards meet EPA2017 and CARB NATIONAL emission levels.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM THEANGLERMAG.COM JANUARY

NAT_0117.indd 7 HondaMarine_CA_Destination_8.125x10.875.indd 1

7

12/15/16 3:09 PM 12/13/16 2:30 PM

Heads Of Cold Steel Winter Steelheading In Upstate New York

By Frank Geremski -The Angler Magazine of Upstate NY publisher

W

inter steelhead fishing can be chilling, but once you hook into a 10-pound, lightning-fast bolt of silver, your blood will be boiling. The speed and explosion are what lures steelheaders to expose themselves to harsh Great Lakes winters. And there’s more. On Upstate New York’s Salmon River, there are plenty of beautiful, large, lake-run brown trout mixed in. Plus, today’s lightweight protective clothing provides comfort between strikes.

The Salmon River in Oswego County, N.Y. (www.visitoswegocounty.com) offers consistent steelhead fishing during the late fall, winter and spring. In fact, the river has runs of trout and salmon from Lake Ontario all year long.

With many quality tributaries along its length and a hatchery, this highquality wilderness river once was home to a legendary Atlantic salmon run.

Rebounding populations of Atlantics still exist due to restoration projects, but Pacific salmon dominate the scene in late summer and fall. Huge chinook salmon, some heavier than 30 pounds, and coho salmon run up 14 miles of prime spawning and fishing waters each fall. A good number of steelhead (rainbow trout) follow the salmon to feed on the eggs dropped during this legendary fall salmon run. The steelhead feed aggressively during the salmon run, and they remain in this beautiful blue-ribbon river all winter, providing more than six months of explosive action. Winter thaws and early spring rains invite the remaining Lake Ontario steelhead to spawn and join their riverwintering kin. It’s a truly dynamic trophy trout experience.

The Salmon River holds big fish. Ten-pound steelhead are commonplace.

Fish in the teens are a definite possibility, and persistent steelheaders get chances every year on specimens in the 20-pound range. When salmon first enter the Salmon River in September and October, steelhead and lake-run brown trout mix in with pacific salmon making their spawning run. Both trout species feed on salmon eggs, and just when the salmon die off, the brown trout begin to spawn. Their eggs supplement the steelheads’ diet. Large numbers of giant trout and steelhead winter in the river, with additional fish running up from Lake Ontario all winter and early spring.

When they first enter the river, these brightly colored bullets aggressively strike offerings like egg sacks, bright Estaz flies or beads that imitate eggs.

Midriver matriculation brings them past the village of Pulaski, where there are about 10 miles of mostly public fishing access to deep holes, runs, rapids and every kind of trout water. Several high-quality tributaries flow in along the way and provide excellent spawning grounds up to what’s considered the upper section of the river. Natural reproduction does occur, and New York state operates a large hatchery on the upper end of the Salmon River.

Since the Salmon River is a tailwater, this upper section is fishable all winter and never ices up. With egg availability diminishing, the winter steelhead diet evolves to more nymphs and stoneflies. Fly fishing is effective yet challenging.

This section of river is ideal for fighting and landing large fish, with catch and release encouraged. Many trophy steelhead in the teens are photographed for replica mounts, and brown trout in the 5- to 10-pound range are caught regularly, with fish in the teens a possibility.

8

NATIONAL

NAT_0117.indd 8

JANUARY 2017

The Salmon River has a reputation for tight quarters during the peak of the salmon run.

Crowds diminish during winter steelhead season.

Weekdays bring even less competition. Two very select permit-only resort properties are located on the two best sections of river offering managed access and exclusive riverside lodging.

On the upper river, The Tailwater Lodge in Altmar, N.Y. has private southside access to Schoolhouse Pool and the runs and holes above and below. This is the prime wintering spot for a large percentage of steelhead and the best access for ice-free angling.

The Tailwater is an Orvis-endorsed lodge, which includes an on-site fly shop, “The Woodshed.” Zero Limit Adventures Guide Service, also Orvis endorsed, has a collaborative relationship with Tailwater Lodge and provides outstanding guidance to this section and the entire Salmon River. They’ll get you dialed into current river conditions and what the fish are feeding on. The Tailwater Lodge’s opulent accommodations coupled with their location on the river and exclusive access make it the Mecca for Salmon River steelheading.

This large section of river provides various speeds of current and holding water with ice-free conditions all winter. Tactics for hooking these giants include fly fishing, spinning, float fishing and center-pin techniques. The Angler Magazine highly recommends booking an experienced licensed guide on your first day to instruct you on equipment, fly or bait selection and technique. Allow Tailwater Lodge (www.tailwaterlodge.com) and Zero Limit Adventures (www. zerolimitadventures.com) ease the entry into this elite pursuit.

Douglaston Salmon Run (DSR) manages more than 2 1/2 miles of exclusive access in the lower end of the Salmon River where steelhead first enter from Lake Ontario. Early steelhead action can be fast and furious. Winter access is dependent on weather conditions, as the middle and lower sections of the Salmon River get slushy or iced over during mid-winter cold speels. DSR (www. douglastonsalmonrun.com) publishes an accurate and honest daily report that functions as a great information source for river conditions and fish movement.

The highly challenging adventure of hooking and battling your first 10-pound-plus Great Lakes steelhead will certainly not be your last. This divine experience will put you in a league of sportsmen who are the only ones to understand this trophy steelhead quest. It’s a feeling like the adrenaline rush of your first buck or sailfish. This heart-pounding adventure on a beautiful river will provide a memory that can be yours forever.

To check out the “Men of Steel” video, go to

CAMFRESHWATER.COM

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 3:09 PM

Live the Legend.

Don’t miss the legendary Salmon Run on New York State’s famous Salmon and Oswego Rivers. Enjoy the best steelhead fly fishing in the Eastern U.S.

visitoswegocounty.com - 1-800-248-4FUN

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

NAT_0117.indd 9

JANUARY 2017

NATIONAL

9

12/15/16 3:10 PM

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 Houma, Louisiana

FREE

The big black drum on the cover of Coastal Angler’s January editions was caught by Banging The Drums Of Jacki Shae, whose south Florida upbringing Houma, La. taught her a love of fishing from an early age.

Winter Chrome In On a recent ladies-only fishing trip to the Upstate N.Y. marshes around Houma, Louisiana, Jacki learned a newfound respect for black drum.

Local This often overlooked cousin to the everpopular red drum might not be much on looks, but it puts up a heck of a fight and grows even larger than the big bull reds prized by so many anglers. Rumor has it the fish on the cover was caught with one of those kids’ Barbie rods spooled with 30-pound test.

With tutelage from their guide Brittney Novalsky, the ladies also did battle with some of the big redfish Louisiana is famous for.

Four young women staying on a houseboat and hauling big fish from the Louisiana mud… what more could anyone ask for from a fishing expedition?

New Longer Shaft for High Bow Boats

Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events

PHOTO COURTESY OF FISHING ADVENTURES VOLUME 22 • ISSUE 264

COASTALA NGLERMA G.COM

F R A N C H I S E

Excellent for Offshore Fishing

WITH BRITTNEY

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

A V A I L A B L E

W O R L D W I D E

JANUARY 2017

0117_CAM_CVR.indd 4

12/12/16 11:22 AM

Same Superior GPS Technology 4X More Accurate 36% More Efficient

THE ANGLER MAGAZINE Salmon River, New York

UPSTATE NEW YORK EDITION

Outstanding Customer Support

FREE

The covers of this month’s editions of The Angler feature a beautiful chrome steelhead Winter Chrome In caught by Zero Limit Adventures Guide Rob Upstate N.Y. Reynolds. The photo was taken by Zero Limit Banging The Drums Of Adventures Guide Matthew DeRosa.

The fish was caught on the Salmon River in Oswego County, New York. To learn more Local about this fantastic fishery view this month’s article “Heads of Cold Steel” by The Angler Magazine Upstate New York publisher Frank Geremski. Zero Limit’s diverse team of guides offer tailored trips of a lifetime and expertly fish many tributaries of central and western New York. They can be reached by e-mail via mderosa@zerolimitadventures.com by phone at 585-766-2421, or view their website at www.zerolimitadventures.com.

Zero Limit has a collaborative relationship with the opulent Tailwater Lodge www.TailwaterLodge.com in Oswego County. Tailwater Lodge offers exclusive access and wonderful accommodations on the banks of the Salmon River, home of legendary trophy salmon, steelhead and brown trout runs from Lake Ontario. Call Tailwater Lodge for availability and reservations at 315-298-3434. To learn more about Lake Ontario, the Salmon River and Oswego County fishing go to www. visitoswegocounty.com or call 1-800-248-4FUN. Houma, La.

Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events

PHOTO COURTESY OF ZERO LIMIT ADVENTURES GUIDE MATTHEW DEROSA VOLUME 22 • ISSUE 264

F R A N C H I S E

THEANGLE RMAG.COM O P P O R T U N I T I E S

A V A I L A B L E

W O R L D W I D E

JANUARY 2017

0117_TAM_CVR.indd 8

12/12/16 11:23 AM

10

NATIONAL

NAT_0117.indd 10

JANUARY 2017

www.gpsanchor.com

888-434-7726

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 3:10 PM

LADIES DRUM UP ACTION IN THE LOUISIANA MARSH

By Jacki Shea

I

find myself staying in the strangest places when I go on fishing adventures. But as long as it involves fishing, sleeping on a couch or on the ground really doesn’t matter.

On this particular trip, my friends and I found ourselves in a small houseboat on a river in the Louisiana marshes west of New Orleans. It was tiny, there was only one bathroom (picture four girls trying to use one bathroom), and the bed sheets smelled like a man after a long day of fishing. You might be wondering what brought us to such a place, and I will give you two very good reasons: redfish and black drum.

Enormous specimens of these two drum species come into the marsh each fall and winter, 20 to 30 pounds to be more specific.

If you plan on making the trip to Louisiana to do some inshore fishing, it is not necessary to stay on a houseboat; however, I highly recommend it. When

you wake up each morning, you are on the water ready to fish with your boat tied up next to you.

Of the drum family, redfish seem to be the most popular inshore species. Redfish are always a great fight, especially the big bulls. But many anglers seem to overlook black drum, which are sometimes referred to as a “mud donkeys.”

It is not an attractive fish, nor is it great for eating; therefore, it is not commonly targeted. This fish does, however, grow the largest of the drum species, and it fights with the same action and power as a bull red. Now that I’ve caught a few, I believe black drum can look very pretty once the Louisiana sun hits those scales just right.

Redfish and black drum are thick in the Louisiana marshes all year, but the season for the monsters runs from September to January, when big fish move from offshore into the marsh following migrating baitfish. When the baitfish show up inshore, the big fish won’t be far behind.

For bait you can use live or artificial depending on whether you are trying to sight fish or just toss a line out and wait.

On our trip, we used a standard knocker rig, with an egg sinker and a hook, and sank split live blue crabs and shrimp to the bottom and waited.

The fishing is quite simple when you know where the fish are, although a guide is recommended for those unfamiliar with the waters because it’s easy to get lost in the marsh. Keep an eye out for cold fronts. The cold fronts clean up the water and bring the fish closer to the surface, which makes for perfect sight fishing. The fish also enjoy the cooler inshore water, so they will be more abundant and active.

Check out Jacki’s YouTube channel Jacki Shea Fishing for videos of her fishing adventures. Her guide for the Louisiana trip was Brittney Novalsky who can be contacted through www.fishingadventureswithbrittney.com.

For more fishing with Jacki Shea, go to

THEFISHERMANPARADISE.COM

Save up to $ 43 on Cialis

®

Or save on other ED and BPH related prescriptions, and all your prescriptions.

Just ask your pharmacist.

TAKE THIS COUPON TO YOUR PHARMACIST! DISCOUNT COUPON

REUSABLE - NEVER EXPIRES

PHARMACIST PROCESSING INFORMATION

RxBIN RxPCN

610679 LHDC

RxGRP ID

SAVE 2460

*NOTE TO PHARMACIST* Enter the BIN, PCN, GRP and ID as provided • No substitutions please.

15% of all profits go to charity.

IMPORTANT NUMBERS Pharmacy/Customer Helpline: 1 (866) 368-9807 www.simplesavingscard.com • Savings not guaranteed • *Savings range from 0%-80% with an average savings of 16.5% • This is not insurance.

For terms and conditions, and privacy policy, go to www.simplesavingscard.com

SAVE $ up to

43

*

Or save on other ED and BPH related prescriptions, and all your prescriptions.

Just ask your pharmacist.

www.simplesavingscard.com

CIALIS is a registered trademark of Eli Lilly and Company. Other product/company names mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

NAT_0117.indd 11

JANUARY 2017

NATIONAL

11

12/15/16 3:10 PM

By Tom Karrow Researcher Tom Karrow assessing fishery health in Abaco with a Bahamian angling guide from the Delphi Club.

Photo by Andrew O’Neill

W

hen I first started fly fishing in the 80s, the sport was not nearly as popular as it is today. Shops carrying fly tackle were sparse, people with knowledge of the sport were few and far between and getting lessons was nearly impossible. When I think back to those days, recalling the number of flies I lost in trees, the frequent tangles I developed and the shear lack of fish I caught, it is a wonder that I kept with it. Indeed, if it were not for the fly tying component of the sport, I might well have thrown in the towel. I love fly tying; being able to create something to fool fish with is a marvelous achievement.

In contrast to my early fly fishing days, today there is a seeming abundance of information on the sport, from equipment, to angling destinations; everyone seems to have some insights. On top of this has been the advent of the Internet, a treasure trove of information and misinformation. The fact of the matter is, fly fishing is not nearly as complicated as it may seem. It is simply a form of fishing that allows for lightweight or nearly weightless “lures” to be used, which without the added weight in the line could not be presented to a fish. In some cases, fly fishing is a far superior method for fooling fish and in others, deep waters for example, far more challenging.

When it comes to heavily pressured or sensitive fish, especially those inhabiting shallow inshore waters, I would argue fly fishing can often out-produce other techniques. Being able to imperceptibly drop a fly in front of fish when they are used to loud splashes from heavy lures or live baits can often result in fooled fish.

Fly fishing is sometimes called an art, perhaps because of the apparent delicateness of the cast, the manner in which the line travels out over the water, or because many incorrectly, consider it hard. So let me correct this fallacy. Fly fishing is not hard, it does not need to be complicated and it can be very easily learned.

If you really want to learn to fly fish, I would suggest a trip to the Bahamas. The weather is beautiful, the waters are stunning, and the people, culture and food are marvelous. The chance of catching fish is very high, as the guides are great instructors and a week’s worth of fly fishing immersion would provide incredible advancement in understanding and skill level.

Throughout my travels in the Bahamas, I have met many wonderful guides and visited many top-notch facilities. To highlight one Bahamian guide or lodge is simply impossible. However, when it comes to learning the sport, be honest. When booking a trip to a lodge, perhaps directly or through a travel company like Yellow Dog Fly Fishing or Frontiers International, tell them what you want. Tell them you are a beginner.

Tell them you want to learn. Through this strategy, those in the know will put you with facilities and personnel best suited to an instructional 12

NATIONAL

NAT_0117.indd 12

JANUARY 2017

Great equipment meets great Bahamian culture.

Photo by Tom Karrow

environment. You want a location that offers everything, lodging and food of course but also equipment, casting lessons, fly tying lessons, safety instruction along with patient and professional guides.

One common thread that has become apparent through my research in the Bahamas is the respect that Bahamians have for travelers, specifically bonefish anglers. Bahamians openly welcome tourists, recognizing the importance that bonefishing has on local Family Island communities. Bonefishing on some Bahamian islands provides employment for up to 80 percent of the local population. With that level of economic importance, industry professionalism is critical along with healthy fisheries. In the Bahamas you will find both a high degree of angling knowledge and amazing fisheries. The Bahamas are certainly an excellent place to consider taking a trip and a phenomenal place to learn to fly fish. What I find most attractive about the Bahamas is the shear diversity available. With more than 700 islands, there is something for everyone. And for anglers, old and new, there are always new opportunities to learn from.

Tom Karrow is a sustainable tourism scholar from the University of Waterloo. His research focuses on the Bahamian bonefishing industry, centered on the guides and their knowledge, stories and experiences.

For more on his research see: http://tomkarrow.wixsite.com/bahamasguide-tek, and follow Coastal Angler Magazine for updates and more.

Tom Karrow can be reached at tkarrow@uwaterloo.ca or tomkarrow@ gmail.com.

For more Bonefishing in the Bahamas, go to

CAMFISHING.CO

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 3:10 PM

Elite Series™ Bassmaster Lester Pro Brandon t the rods tha builds all of he Elite he uses on t ment Trail. a n r u o T s ie r Se

o. o t d l u o h s u Yo

WWW.MUDHOLE.COM

(800)-820-2509 GOOGLE: MUD HOLE TURNKEY COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

NAT_0117.indd 13

JANUARY 2017

NATIONAL

13

12/15/16 3:10 PM

14

NATIONAL

NAT_0117.indd 14

JANUARY 2017

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 3:10 PM

no weight reduction had gone into the components above the handle. The guides were large and weighty. As a result, the rod was annoyingly front-heavy, even when I mounted two of the spinning reels I had tabbed for the task. Lost balance led to lost feel and sense of control over my bait. It took an oversized reel to bring anything resembling “balance” to this rod, and the resultant combo was still cumbersome.

“It’s hard to get a rod perfectly balanced without knowing the reel a guy plans to put on it,” said Russ Lane, a Bassmaster Elite Series angler known for his talent for tackle tinkering.

Lane wraps many of his rods with Winn Superior Rod Wrap (www.winngrips.com) to give them the same advantages of hand control and comfort that he gets with the Denali Attax rods and other rods in his arsenal already fitted with Winn grips. But at times there’s a secondary benefit to the wrap.

“Sometimes adding the Winn rod wrap can add just enough weight to balance a rod,” noted Lane.

He faced a formidable “weight-forward” balance challenge with the flipping/pitching rod he uses to punch matted vegetation with soft plastic lures and 1.5-ounce tungsten

By Mike Pehanich weights. “I needed to add more weight to the handle,” Lane recalled.

As usual, he covered the cork mid-grip of this 7-foot, 6-inch Denali Lithium Flipping Stick (Xtra Heavy) with the ightness” has been the dominant thrust of rod evolution for years.

Lightweight guides, skeletal reel seats, split grips… these and other polymer overwrap. Before he added the wrap to the butt grip, however, he developments have served rod builders in their ongoing quest to added Storm SuspenStrips—adhesive-backed rectangles of soft lead that he reduce rod weight and, in turn, diminish fatigue and enhance angler comfort generally uses to add weight to his jerkbaits—to the tapered butt grip.

“You can get the balance perfect by adding just enough lead tape over the and feel on the water.

Oddly enough, radical downsizing of rod components sometimes produces butt grip before adding Winn overwrap on top of it,” explained Lane. “Balance the opposite of its intended effect if rod balance is significantly compromised makes a big difference when you are flipping those heavy tungsten weights in along the way or when heavier-than-usual lures or terminal tackle enter the heavy cover all day long.” picture.

Several seasons ago, a rod manufacturer asked me to road test a new midFor a word from Lester on the benefits of Winn Grips, go to priced spinning rod the company was planning to bring to market. The design team had taken the split grip concept to an extreme, virtually eliminating the mid (rear) grip altogether and adding a very airy foam to the butt grip. However,

Tackle Corner: A ‘WRAP’ SESSION WITH RODS FOR BETTER CONTROL

“L

FORTHELO VEOFFISHING.CO

To locate your local dealer please visit

www.crevalleboats.com COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

NAT_0117.indd 15

JANUARY 2017

NATIONAL

15

12/15/16 3:10 PM

WE BUILD FUN INTO EVERY NAUTICSTAR! SPORT DECKS

NauticStar’s line of Sport Decks are designed to fit your lifestyle and budget from the smallest–the new 193SC side console, to the largest–the 243DC - 24’3” dual console.

[ 193 SC ]

BAY BOATS

[ 227 XTS ]

Whether you’re a tournament or recreational angler, NauticStar’s Bay Boats set the standard.

From 18–24’6”, they take full advantage of every inch of space for maximum fishability and performance!

[ 2602 LEGACY ]

CENTER CONSOLES Head out into the deep waters in a NauticStar Center Console with sizes from 19–28 foot, including the new 2602 Legacy–family friendly pleasure and fishing boat.

For your local dealer, visit our website or call:

(662) 256-5636

Factory installed with

NauticStarBoats.com 16

NATIONAL

NAT_0117.indd 16

JANUARY 2017

Some photos shown with optional equipment

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 3:10 PM

s

T

Shown above: Chad Roberson, President of H2O Sports congratulates Danny Amador on his new boat.

hat’s a real mouthful of salutations, but the winner of Coastal Angler and The Angler Magazine’s Boat Giveaway contest is certainly deserving of all three. Danny Amador was drawn as the winner of the 15’10” Cape Craft boat with 75 hp Honda engine and a Coyote trailer. A massive fire at H20 Sports Manufacturing delayed much of their manufacturing, and Danny Amador had to wait until Dec. 9 to pick up his brand new Cape Craft vessel.

That’s where the story gets really interesting. Dec. 9 is Danny’s birthday. Yep, and as all December birthday people know it’s always “Happy Birthday and Merry Christmas.”

Coastal Angler Magazine would like to salute Danny Amador for his patience in receiving his boat. Unforeseen circumstances can sometimes alter even the best of transactions. Danny Amador’s patience and H20’s commitment to fulfilling the contest award represented the best of our industry. In addition to Danny’s boat, motor and trailer, Chad Roberson, H20 Sports Manufacturing’s President, insisted on

throwing in a free bimini top and invited Danny Amador to pick his favorite custom color for the boat. Good things are worth waiting for.

Special thanks to Top Notch Marine in Fort H2O Staff and Danny Amador shown at H2O Sports headquarters.

Pierce, Fla. for their assistance in titling this boat to our Florida winner. Once again to Danny Amador: “Congratulations, Happy Birthday and Merry Christmas!”

THE ONLY LURE WITH THE PATENTED

JET TRAIL SYSTEM New P200

O N LY

$11.95

SELECT DEALER INQUIRES WELCOME

• 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

NAT_0117.indd 17

JANUARY 2017

NATIONAL

17

12/15/16 3:11 PM

UNDER THE SEA

Center s LIONFISH: CAN’T BEAT ’EM? EAT ’EM! SHERI DAYE

A

lthough beautiful to look at, the invasive lionfish poses a severe threat to Atlantic and Gulf waters.

They are known for having spines that can sting if not handled properly, but the meat is perfectly safe and delicious to eat. In other words, they are venomous but not poisonous.

Lionfish is becoming increasingly common on restaurant menus and is even available at Whole Foods grocery stores. Connoisseurs often compare the quality to hogfish – a fine, delicate white meat.

The scientific community concluded that home aquarists are to blame.

Much like the python in the Everglades, it only took a few released invasive individuals to begin the breeding cycle. Since they are a new and strange looking species, native fish are not consuming lionfish. Yet lionfish are consuming juvenile native species at an alarming rate. Adding to the problem, they also breed at an amazing rate. Females reach sexual maturity at six months and release up to 30,000 eggs every five days. They now cover the east coast of the U.S., the entire Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, Atlantic side of Central and South America, and can be found between 2 and 1,000 feet deep.

The most effective way of hunting them, by far, is spearfishing. Since they have no natural predators, they are not wary which makes them easy to spear. Just handle the spines with care and you will be rewarded with a delicious meal while helping the environment!

Lionfish hunting tips: 1. First, you must find them! Unfortunately, they are everywhere—look on reefs, wrecks, sometimes out in the open and often in ledges and holes.

2. Handle them carefully and do not to let the fins puncture your skin. If stung on the hand, remove any rings right away. The best treatment is heat, which breaks down the venom. Heat packs or hot water collected from the boat exhaust can be used.

3. Use the specially designed pole spears (such as Neritic) and use lionfish containers (such as the Zookeeper), which are puncture-proof.

These specialty items can be found on the LionfishHunting.com website or your local dive shop.

4. Once back on the boat/shore, place lionfish into cooler and continue to handle with care. The protein-based venom is broken down by heat but preserved by cold.

5.

Lionfish can be filleted just like any other fish. See LionfishHunting.com for a good set of instructions with photos on how to fillet.

6. Lionfish can be prepared like any other white-meat fish. Many recipes can be found online. For an impressive presentation, they can even be cooked whole as cooking neutralizes the venom.

P. S. The Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo, which takes place April 2017 in Ft. Lauderdale, will have a Lionfish Pavilion featuring several exhibitors along with a cook-off event where several chefs will be showing off their best recipes and giving samples. Happy Hunting!

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

For more Sheri Daye, go to

CAMSPEARFISHING.COM

EXHIBITORS - SEMINARS - WORKSHOPS

freediving, scuba, spearfishing, lobstering, fishing, surfing, SUP marine art, U/W photo and video, watercraft, apparel, travel

April 22 - 23, 2017 - Ft. Lauderdale, Florida - www.TheBlueWild.com

Fishing Lights Dock Lights Flounder Lights 785-621-2646 18

NATIONAL

NAT_0117.indd 18

JANUARY 2017

fishinglightsetc.com

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 3:11 PM

FLORIDA

The event also features Port Salerno’s finest restaurants.

For the fourth consecutive year, the festival was voted the “Best Local Event in Martin County” by TC Palm Newspaper’s readers. This year will see continued enhancement of the Fishermen’s Village and Market. Here you can learn about the history of Port Salerno and go home with some locally caught fish. The festival features three stages with some of the area’s top bands performing, and a new Kids Fun Zone.

Advance tickets are just $7 on our website and Facebook page. These tickets will be available for purchase until January 20 or until supplies run out. Admission at the gate will be $10 for adults, children 12 and under are free. The festival will also provide complimentary transportation to and from the event via trolley or water taxi.

A portion of the festival proceeds is distributed to local charities. For complete festival information go to the website www.

PortSalernoSeafoodFestival.org or call 888612-4192.

G

et in the mood for seafood! It’s time for the 11th Annual Port Salerno Seafood Festival. The fun begins The Port Salerno Seafood Festival Inc. is Saturday, Jan. 28 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. This local event a not-for-profit trade association dedicated boasts the best seafood that you will find at any festival, a great to preserving the heritage and integrity of the music line-up, arts, crafts and local business vendors, a Kids commercial fishing industry in Port Salerno.

Fun Zone, mermaids, pirates and more.

“There is a reason why the seafood is so delicious,” said Edward “Butch” Olsen, Jr., president of the Port Salerno To learn more about last years Port Salerno Festival, go to Commercial Fishing Dock Authority. “We serve the freshest seafood and locally caught fish when possible. The majority of our seafood is prepared by BluewaterSFC_half_pg_Feb2017 FOR PRINT.qxp_Layout the fishermen and their families. This is truly a family affair.” 1 12/7/16 11:18 AM Page 1

ANGLERSLIFE.CO

Fish Costa Rica and more... Travel made Easy!!!

DAY

TO CALL

FightTheFish.com

(772) 486-0180 • (302) 519-3176

Come see us at NRA Great American Outdoor Show - Booth 2420 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 1

JANUARY 2017

FLORIDA 1

12/15/16 5:20 PM

BOAT INSURANCE SINKING YOU?

SAVE

50%Insurance

up to

on Boat

Get the

LOWEST Rates!

$37,000 $75,000 $100,000 $250,000 $500,000 $264/yr $474/yr $586/yr $2,975/yr $5,985/yr

BOATS & JETSKI From:

GET A QUOTE! (888) 977-4500 (954) 785-5000

BoatInsuranceFlorida.com Bradley Insurance Group

Covering Boaters throughout the south since 1988

Your #1 Source for Boat Insurance

2 FLORIDA

JANUARY 2017

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 2

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 5:20 PM

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 3

JANUARY 2017

FLORIDA 3

12/15/16 5:20 PM

A

s anglers, SCUBA divers and Florida beachgoers, using sustainable practices. we all have a stake in maintaining the health of One of the easiest ways to choose sustainable the natural areas that bring us so much joy. By seafood is to keep it local. Many restaurants and seafood integrating sustainable fishing and seafood practices markets throughout Florida feature the “Fresh from into our daily lives, we can ensure that local ecosystems Florida” designation. This endorsement by the Florida thrive for generations to come.

Department of Agriculture guarantees foods and In fact, as an angler, you are probably already their ingredients are sourced from local suppliers and choosing your seafood in an eco-friendly way. Rod- producers, including seafood caught by local fishermen. and-reel fishing is one of the most environmentally Visit www.freshfromflorida.com for a list of restaurants beneficial ways to source our seafood. Staying within throughout the state that feature “Fresh from Florida” catch limits and taking home fish to feed your family food. lowers our dependence on commercial fishing. RodWhen local favorites aren’t available, or if you are and-reel catch practices facilitate natural fish stock new to the intricacies of sourcing sustainably caught replenishment, both inshore and on our reef systems. seafood, programs like the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Smaller, locally caught fish are also lower on the Seafood Watch can provide great guidance to help you food chain than their predators, like tuna, salmon and make informed choices. swordfish. Although popular on the dinner plate, larger Their straightforward system categorizes seafood predatory fish are more likely to accumulate toxins by location and ranks them into one of three groupings: within their systems. Catching fish puts you in direct “Avoid,” “Good Alternative” and “Best Choice.” The control over what reaches your dinner plate, ensuring Seafood Watch program comprehensively evaluates each you are able to make informed, healthy choices. fishery, so the same species may fall into two different The relatively recent introduction of biodegradable categories, based on how and where it was sourced. fishing line and the prevalence of monofilament Once you have the right tools, it is easy to choose recycling stations throughout local parks and piers sustainably caught seafood and improve your fishing are further increasing the long-term sustainability practices. Join Pura Vida Divers in January for a fun of fishing. Check out the Florida Fish and Wildlife social night and engaging presentation that will teach Conservation Commission’s Monofilament Recycling you the basics to sourcing seafood that’s best for your Program website to learn more about these important family and our planet. Visit the events page on our stations: www.mrrp.myfwc.com. website at www.puravidadivers.com for details, or call When species seasonality, weather conditions or us at 561-840-8750. the day-to-day bustle limits your ability to get out on the water and For more about choosing sustainably sourced seafood, go to catch your own seafood, there are still many ways to ensure the food on your plate was sourced

PEACEFULWATERS.CO

Professional Grade Saltwater Fishing Products

1-800-543-5942 WWW.BEACHMARINEPRODUCTS.COM 4 FLORIDA

JANUARY 2017

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 4

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 5:20 PM

$

110

KZ SPORT Sportsmen Classic MSRP $14,512

MO. PER

ONLY

1,517 12 995

$

$

SAVE $

316

$

MO. PER

MSRP $75,729

New 2016 Forest River RV Sunseeker LE 2250SLE Ford

ONLY

SAVE

17,828 $ 57,900

$

Payments based on 4.5% APR, 240 mos.

20% down plus tax and fees. WAC.

,

Payments based on 4.99% APR, 144 mos. 20% down plus tax and fees. WAC.

465 PER

MSRP 120,039

Payments based on 4.5% APR, 240 mos.

20% down plus tax and fees. WAC.

EXTRA ADDED BONUS VALUE!

accomplished, as they examine hundreds of species of local invertebrates, sea turtles, algae and fish from the Gulf, including sharks.

The facility in Panacea, which is south of Tallahassee on the Gulf, is open at 222 Clark Drive most weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. For a modest entrance fee, a fee that

that’s where the staff of Gulf Specimen Lab comes in.

Knowing the Gulf really well from years of exploring it, they go out in their boats, collect the requested specimens, take them back to their lab, carefully package them, and send them off to labs in the United States, Canada, Europe, and even outer space for use on the Space Shuttle and International Space Station. All the while, the specimen collectors are very careful not to damage the coral and delicate ecosystems of the Gulf.

Begun in 1963 by a truly remarkable man, Jack Rudloe, the lab is an independent, non-profit organization that has engaged in mariculture, farming the depths of the sea, studying endangered species, and—maybe most importantly for future generations— opening up their facilities to thousands of school children in hopes of educating the youngsters and maybe inspiring some of them to study marine science as their career. Every year thousands of school children and more than 20,000 ordinary visitors visit the facility and probably come away with awe and admiration for what the lab has

goes to the maintenance of the many tanks of live sea animals, visitors can photograph, read about and marvel at the exhibits, and even touch and hold some of the live animals.

The facility has knowledgeable staff and interns who are eager to share their knowledge and answer questions.

If you’re really lucky, you’ll get to meet and interact with the founder of the Lab, Jack Rudloe, author of fascinating books like “The Living Dock at Panacea,” “Potluck,” “Search for the Great Turtle Mother,” “The Erotic Ocean,” “The Wilderness Coast,” and—with his late wife, Anne—“Shrimp.”

If you do meet the man, ask him about the influence of Nobel-Prize-winning author John Steinbeck on his own career. You’ll no doubt come away with an appreciation of a new kind of Florida fisherman: one who collects fish and other specimens for use in the fight against cancer and other terrible diseases.

New 2016 Forest River RV Georgetown Series 30X3

85,900

ONLY $

$

MO.

E

very Monday through Thursday a Fed Ex truck pulls up to Gulf Specimen Lab in Panacea, Fla. to take away a package for shipment to someplace in the world. It might be a package full of jellyfish or sea urchins or sponges. Scientists around the world who do not have easy access to waters as rich as the Gulf of Mexico have a difficult time obtaining such samples by themselves. And

SAVE $34,366

When you purchase any RV from Dick Gore’s RV World Valid through March 31, 2017 For Coastal Angler Readers Only

14590 Duval Place West, Jacksonville, Florida

dickgoresrvworld.com • (904) 741-5100

Kevin McCarthy, the award-winning author of “North Florida Waterways” (2013 - available at amazon. com for $7), can be reached at ceyhankevin@gmail.com.

To Learn More on the Box Crab by Jack Rudloe, go to

GOBOATBOUND.COM COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 5

JANUARY 2017

FLORIDA 5

12/15/16 5:20 PM

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

STUART TOURNAMENT ANGLERS HAPPY TO SEE SAILFISH

By Ed Killer

Champagne Lady returns with nine flags flying to win the Pirates Cove Sailfish Classic with 20 total sailfish in three days.

Promo Code:

CAMJAN Using this code when checking out will discount $11.99 (price of box of cartridges) off of an order of $190 or more.

Revolutionary Tauten™ line “welder” significantly increases “line strength” by eliminating the knot!

F

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

This effort is futile because the line must bend to tie any knot, which always weakens the line, in many cases, substantially!

Tauten has replaced the knot with a polymer line weld which results in virtually no loss in system strength. Instead of the line breaking at the weld, the line itself will fail first.

Works on braid, mono or fluorocarbon Simply run line through lure/hook and back over device, push button and line is welded to itself in seconds Takes easily replaced and inexpensive polymer cartridges (up to 12 welds per) Device derived from one used by surgeons to tie surgical knots and is extremely durable, lightweight and it floats!

Allows you to use smaller diameter line or increases the breaking strength of existing line No more failed knots!

CALL: 978.961.3272 We’d love to talk line welding!

TAUTEN.COM

6 FLORIDA

JANUARY 2017

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 6

They’re baaack.

Not long after Thanksgiving, anglers on Florida’s Treasure Coast set sights on the warm-water eddies spinning westward from the Gulf Stream.

Typically, December and January make up the sailfish season in this region, as thousands of sailfish migrate south along the coastline to their winter spots off Mexico.

Four tournaments take place on the Treasure Coast each season. For much of the last two sailfish seasons, the sailfish have been few in numbers.

That all changed this year.

The fourth annual Fish Heads Invitational Sailfish Tournament sailed out of Sailfish Marina on Stuart’s Manatee Pocket Nov. 29-30. A fleet of 18 boats compiled the young event’s catch record of 108 sailfish releases.

Martha D with Capt. Scott Fawcett, owner Ryan Dayton of Wellington and Maryland, angler Dan Hall and mates Kyle Francis and Matt Coppelletta caught 14 sailfish to win the tournament. Miss Victoria led by Capt. Brian Speedy caught 12 to finish second. Ohana led by Capt. Eddie Wheeler placed third with 11 releases.

Fawcett said his team’s big day, where they caught nine, came to the south of Stuart, off Juno Beach, in about 120 to 200 feet of water. The weather was oddly spring-like–warm with southeasterly winds.

The 28th Pirates Cove Sailfish Classic saw 24 boats enter the tournament.

Fishing patterns continued the same way for the three-day event, and the sailfishing was good. The tournament fleet racked up 222 sailfish.

Capt. Josh Chaney led Champagne Lady with owner Tony Ingram of Stuart, anglers Carl Repetto, Rob Miller and Mark Donohue, and crewmen Connor Tillman, Mark McDevitt and Sean Young, to a day-high nine releases on the final day for a fleet-best 20 releases. Showtime! With Capt.

Wink Doerzbacher and Vintage with owner and Capt. Hans Kraaz each caught 18 sails and placed second and third, respectively.

Nice start to the month-long tournament season, but the area’s longestrunning event, the Stuart Sailfish Club’s 63rd annual Light Tackle Sailfish Tournament was next. And the sea conditions did not remain the same.

The weekend of Dec. 9-11, the Light Tackle swung into action from Sailfish Point Marina. A fleet of 24 boats competing in traditional and amateur divisions endured very rough seas and high winds. The fishing was still pretty good, as the fleet caught and released 152 sailfish.

Toast with Capt. Newt Cagle, owners Jared and Michael Gillman of Palm Beach, anglers Ron Martin, Anthony Rizzo, and Jimbo Brogan, caught and released 14 sailfish to win the event. Cagle and crew caught the go-ahead sailfish about 35 minutes before the tournament’s lines out call to edge out Showtime!, Challenge with Capt. Jim Hardee and Floridian with Capt. Glenn Cameron, each with 13 releases.

Marlin Hunter with owner and team captain Kurt Von Seekamm of Sewall’s Point won the amateur division with six sailfish releases.

So, with 75 percent of the Treasure Coast sailfish tournament season in the books, it’s good to see the area will not have to relinquish its earned nickname from the 1930s – Sailfish Capital of the World.

Ed Killer is the outdoors columnist for Treasure Coast Newspapers and is part of the USA Today network.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 5:20 PM

Apparel and Accessories for those who share a passion for fishing and the sea

352-246-6435

www.knottytails.com

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 7

JANUARY 2017

FLORIDA 7

12/15/16 5:20 PM

8 FLORIDA

JANUARY 2017

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 8

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 5:20 PM

M

iami is the place to be over President’s Day weekend as more than 100,000 boating enthusiasts from around the globe are expected to flock to the Progressive Insurance Miami International Boat Show.

Recognized as one of the world’s largest and greatest boat shows, 2017 marks the show’s second year at the Miami Marine Stadium Park & Basin, where it will unveil a number of elements expected to further solidify Miami’s position as the boating capital of the world.

Building on its 2016 success, the Miami Boat Show will unveil a number of enhancements in 2017—from transportation and product offerings to food and beverage—while maintaining all the elements that make the Miami Boat Show such a beloved experience for attendees and exhibitors.

Highlights include: More Boats to Browse, Board and Buy: Organizers anticipate more than 1,300 new boats on display throughout this year’s show with more new model debuts than ever before. The number of boats in-water is expanding 35 percent to an estimated 550 boats and yachts—all located in the show’s marina. From

sport fishing and high performance boats to personal watercraft and wake sport boats, family cruisers and luxury yachts, there is something for every lifestyle and budget.

More to Taste and Toast: The 2017 Miami Boat Show encourages attendees 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.

More Large Yachts: More than 100 new luxury yachts for sale, makes the Miami Boat Show one of the largest yachting exhibitions in the country.

Attendees seeking the VIP treatment will have exclusive access to everything from premium bites and live music, to concierge services, VIP parking, and an exclusive on-water VIP lounge aboard the 111-foot Biscayne Lady.

More Strictly Sail: The show’s second location, Strictly Sail Miami, will dock at Miamarina at Bayside and feature approximately 130 sailboats, a large selection of sailing and power catamarans, seminars and sailing gear. Free water taxis and shuttle buses run until 7 p.m.

More On-Water Experiences: Sea trials will allow interested shoppers to take the boat of their dreams for a spin. This year, more boat exhibitors will participate, giving boat buyers a chance to test-drive a number of options. In addition, the show will offer its Discover Boating Hands-On Skills Training.

Space is limited; advance registration is recommended.

More Parking and Transportation Options: The Miami Boat Show will offer seamless transportation to and from Miami Marine Stadium Park & Basin with water taxis, shuttle buses and abundant parking.

The show will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day. Tickets may be purchased in advance at www.miamiboatshow.com. For more information, see www.miamiboatshow.com or search the show on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. The phone number for the Florida office is 954-441-3220.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 9

JANUARY 2017

FLORIDA 9

12/15/16 5:20 PM

REPOWER

P

TWIN 250 HP

2

HEADQUARTERS

TWIN 300 HP

300 HP WHITE Fly By Wire

BLACK or WHITE Fly By Wire

BLACK Fly By Wire

250 HP BLACK Fly By Wire

GUARANTEED LOWEST PRICE!

6 year

W

prices too low to print!!

SUZUKI * AS LOW AS 5.99% WarraNTy On MOtOrs 40 HP And UP!

*

*

*5.99% Financing W.A.C. - All Prices are plus applicable sales tax. Limited quantities at these prices. Installation includes Suzuki Rig Kit, SS prop & labor.

175 HP BLACK Fly By Wire

10 FLORIDA

175 HP WHITE

JANUARY 2017

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 10

TWIN 150 HP BLACK Fly By Wire

150 HP

BLACK or WHITE Fly By Wire

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 5:20 PM

R

S

o

PALM CITY YACHTS 612 SW Federal Hwy. Stuart, FL 34994 www.palmcityyachts.com (772) 220-3000

225 HP

WHITE or BLACK

TWIN 200 HP WHITE

872 N. Federal Hwy. Lantana, FL 33462 www.pcylantana.com (772) 220–3000

200 HP WHITE

TWIN 175 HP WHITE

Join Us For The

GRAND OPENING CELEbRATION oF oUr new sTUarT showroom!

Great Savings

January 13-14-15 • 8am-5pm 612 SW Federal Hwy. • Stuart, FL 34994 (772) 220-3000 • www.palmcityyachts.com

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 11

Factory Incentiv es

JANUARY 2017

FLORIDA 11

12/15/16 5:20 PM

Center colors and feather pattern selection for the avid fly tyer is endless. If you are willing to put in several days of hard hunting this winter, at the end of the season you very well could end up with enough waterfowl plumage to last you an entire year of fly tying. To add icing on the cake, as if harvesting your own fly tying material wasn’t enough motivation, wild duck will provide you with some of the most highquality table fare the Sunshine State has to offer.

For those new to hunting, here are the licenses and permits you will need to hunt ducks in Florida; that way you can avoid an unpleasant encounter with the game warden. If you’ve never bought a hunting permit before, you will first need to take the online hunter safety coarse at www. myfwc.com. Once you have completed that, you will then need to purchase a standard Florida hunting license, a Florida

By Brandon Tourigny • Photo Courtesy of Cohutta Fishing Company waterfowl permit, a migratory bird permit (which is free), and if you intend to hunt public land you will also need a Wildlife or all of us fly tyers, the cost of materials always seems to be a big set back, as it is with many art forms. The more addicted to the art of fly tying one Management Area (WMA) permit. The final thing you will need to purchase gets, the faster money will seem to fly out of the wallet. However, for those before you hit the marsh is the annual Federal Duck Stamp, which can also be who consider themselves all-around outdoorsmen, I have a simple solution to purchased at www.myfwc.com.

Catching fish on your own handmade flies is one of the most rewarding help ease the pain of buying fly tying material: go duck hunting!

Why would you go spend crazy amounts of money at fly shops to buy high- experiences in our sport, and using feathers that came off of waterfowl you quality waterfowl plumage when the great state of Florida is home to millions harvested makes the experience even better. Duck season is in full swing now of ducks and other waterfowl all found on public land. In the Sunshine State, until the end of January, so go get your license, pull out the old 12 gauge, and any duck hunter is allotted 6 ducks a day (with certain species restrictions), and go hunt! when push comes to shove a single medium sized duck such as a wood duck For more duck hunting and fly fishing, go to will provide you with a wealth of material to tie from.

As it just so happens, nearly every single species of migratory duck that frequents North American flyways can be found within our borders, so the

w

C

F

ANGLERMAGFISHING.CO

P

We price match!

Parts in stock!

No shipping charges!

All locations open on Sundays: 9am-3pm

Trailer Tires

w/ Galvanized Rim 5 Lug

$74.95 TW175D13C5GS $92.95 TW205D14C5GS

Stainless Steel Bottle Koozie $16.95 ST-BA

Polyester Resin Quart $12.95 BOU-001Q Gallon $31.48 BOU-001G 5 Gal Pail $139.00 BOU-001P

M r w

SaR y b

A “

Q 12 FLORIDA

JANUARY 2017

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 12

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 5:20 PM

er spread FINALLY, FINALLY, FINALLY...

BOAT WITH BAY 239-574-7800 www.ActionCraft.com FAMILY AND SAFETY IN MIND A 24 FOOT PREMIUM

THE ALTERNATIVE TO BUYING A NEW BOAT

Comfortable SeaDek and layout pad

Backrest for bow seats

Most storage space

Largest walk-in console Flush-mounted with porta potty optional seat cushions (not shown)

Largest rear casting deck

Largest cockpit

Performance Bulletin Available

Seating for 8-10 people

Suzuki Repower Centers are stationed around Florida to help with your Suzuki Highestand repower needs. service gunwales

Lou’s Marine, Inc. Gulf Breeze

St. Augustine Marine Center St. Augustine

COMING SOON

Mastry Engine Center’s 51 years of repower experience now combined with Suzuki outboard motors.

Safety handrailpackages designed to best fit Repower your needs and not stretch your budget. Financing available.

COMING SOON Mastry Engine Center St. Petersburg

Bayfront Yacht Works Sarasota

Calusa Certified Marine

All Suzuki repowers come with Suzuki’s “Gimme Six!” 6-year protection.

Most freeboard

Cape Coral

Marina One Deerfield Beach

Atlantic Marine Store Hialeah

Boat Services Group

Driest/Safety hull for Qui-Dry hull for quiet Swim platform and dry ride Request ainshore/offshore quote! •COASTALANGLERMAG.COM suzukirepower.com • 1-800-545-4574 • THEANGLERMAG.COM JANUARY 2017 and ladder Key West

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 13

FLORIDA 13

12/15/16 5:20 PM

A

LICE TOWN, BIMINI—Wahoo Smackdown VIII, hosted by the historic Bimini Big Game Club Resort and Marina on Nov. 10-12, saw more than 150 anglers competing for more than $25,000 in cash and prizes and landing over a ton-and-a-half (3,253.5 pounds) of fish in the process.

With more than 50 record-setting catches in the waters around the island, Bimini has often been referred to as the Sport Fishing Capital of the World.

“Bimini’s legendary fishing action held true once again,” said tournament director Capt. Robbie Smith. “Fish were everywhere, the action was competitive, and the fishing gods were with us.”

A fleet of 35 boats fished, with 25 making it to the leaderboard.

Over the two days, 133 fish were caught, the largest weighing over 84 pounds.

Team Murderized, out of Grand Bahama, took top team honors with 11 fish weighing a total of 292.5-pounds, taking home $15,000 in cash winnings.

Second place Team Monster Catch, out of Miami, earning $7,500 in cash winnings, caught the largest fish of the tournament, an 84.7-pound monster. They weighed eight fish for a total catch weight

By Dr. Stefan Harzen • Photos Courtesy of Harzen/Brunnick, of 285.6 pounds.

Team Box N Bull, out of Fort Lauderdale, finished third, taking Taras Oceanographic Foundation home $2,500 in cash winnings, with a total catch of 13 fish with a total catch weight of 262.8 pounds. tournament, and a closing awards party on the great lawn, featuring a buffet, Tournament coordinator Beth Watson said the weekend “went flawlessly,” live entertainment and a full open bar. adding the announced plan to refund tournament entry fees if the tournament Sponsors included Sysco, David Dunleavy Performance Fishing apparel, was called due to weather, attracted the largest number of entries since the Bost Lures, Sands Beer, InTheBite, Flanigan’s Seafood Bar and Grill, Faro Blanco tournament’s inception.

Resort and Yacht Club, Reef Safe Suncare, Bacardi Oakhart Key West Marlin Tournament festivities included live local entertainment nightly, a cocktail Tournament, Roffs, Tito’s Vodka, Tropic Ocean Airways, and Island Glass Art. reception poolside for the captains meeting, a cookout on day one of the

14 FLORIDA

JANUARY 2017

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 14

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 5:21 PM

#GETOUTHERE

HANDS DOWN, THE BEST GAME IN TOWN

TWO FLY FREE

$300

From Nassau

Fuel Credit

Whether your game is stalking gin-clear flats for the silvery-flash of bonefish or looking to pick a fight with a record setting marlin, The Out Islands of The Bahamas is home to the greatest fishing experiences in the world. And with two great offers, it’s never been easier to #GetOutHere.* Discover our latest specials like our Air and Fuel Credits at OutIslandsAnglers.com

ABACOS

ACKLINS

ANDROS

BERRY ISLANDS

BIMINI

CAT ISLAND

CROOKED ISLAND ELEUTHERA

EXUMAS

HARBOUR ISLAND

LONG ISLAND

SAN SALVADOR

*Book a 4-6 night stay and receive one free round-trip airfare or a 7-night or longer stay and receive up to two round-trip airfares. Free round-trip airfare only for flights originating/ending in Nassau. Offer for new-air inclusive bookings and passengers on same itinerary. One instant $300 fuel credit per stay at a certified and participating marina combined with a 4-night minimum consecutive stay. All offers available for stays at participating BOIPB member hotels. Not combinable with any other credit promotions. These offers are subject to availability and may be changed or cancelled at any time. Please visit OutIslandsAnglers.com for full terms and conditions.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 15

JANUARY 2017

FLORIDA 15

12/15/16 5:21 PM

Anglers For Conservation wishes to thank all of our Paddleboard SponsorS sponsors who generously Raffle Nance Cacciatore contributed to our 2016 Paddleboard House, Indialantic ProteCt our WAters Aloha Shirt Sponsor Blue Turtle Magazine fundraising event.

Surf Silent Auction Sponsors

AFC Orlando Chapter • Against The Grain Tattoo • Amie Stafford Photography • Aqua Bound Jason Arnold • Art Expressions • Capt. Glynn Austin • Bimini Bay • Jon Brangan • Capt. Hiram’s Resort Carlisle Paddles • Frank Catino • Chairs for Affairs • Chill & Grill Fresh Seafoods • Gloria Clifford Columbia • Da’Bonz Carver • DOA Lures • Elliot Museum • Harry Goode’s Outdoor Shop • Carl Hiaasen Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park • Indialantic Seafood Market • Inhouse Smoked Meats Karen’s Kayaks • Key West Hammock Company • Capt. John Kumiski • Mel Fisher’s Treasure Museum Mulligan’s • Capt. Mark Nichols • On The Edge Rock Climbing Gym • Palm Beach Memorabilia Robin M. Petersen, Attorney • Pizza Gallery • Plantation on Crystal River • Preetibeads Randell Made Knives • River Palm Cottages & Fish Camp • Seadek • Sport Fishing Magazine StoreSmart of Rockledge • Suntree Country Club • The Rave • Tiki Mike • Weedline Apparel

Additional Thanks to:

A Better Copy • A&B Graphics • Dennis Abdelhamid the Webmaster • Dominick Agostini Brevard Hawaiian Dancers • Josie Calle • Coastal Angler Magazine • Mike Conneen • INI Productions Alan Jotkoff • Doug Olander • Brian Powell • Rodney Smith Media • Donnie Torok Karrie Torok • Tammy Wilson • Lori Wnek • Warren Wnek

• • • • 16 FLORIDA

JANUARY 2017

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 16

Aqua Marine Deck non-skid closed cell marine foam

Mai Tai Cocktail SponsorS Lou’s Blues Carroll Distributing

NO MORE WET CARPET!

Jimenez Life & Health

www.aquamarinedeck.com

Entertainment sponsor

770-614-4417

Shells of Melbourne

1050 Parkway Industrial Park Dr. Suite 500 Buford GA 30518

Luau Dinner Sponsor

AQUA M CLOSED C

3M ASA Peel & Stick Application Non-skid AVA Foam, Great Wet & Dry Traction Stain • 3M PSA PeelResistant & Stick Application & Anti-fungal AV Protection Covers Spider • Non-skid EVA Foam, Great WetCracks & Dry Traction and Adds • Stain Resistant &for Anti-fungal UV Protection Comfort Standing

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 5:21 PM

Lleb

Miami Boat Show Booth E-540

Bucket Seats, Double or Triple

Pilot House Chairs

Bench Seats

Bass Boat Seats

800-284-5771 • 817-831-6261

www.HelmChair.com COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 17 Llebroc Ind._FP_0117.indd 1

JANUARY 2017

FLORIDA 17

12/15/16 5:21 PM 12/15/16 9:52 AM

Offshore-Inshore-Nearshore...

The Choice Is Yours.

Sailfish Capital of the World.

STuarT • PaLM CITy • JEnSEn BEaCh • huTChInSOn ISLanD POrT SaLErnO • hOBE SOunD • InDIanTOwn

DiscoverMartin.com/fishing • 772-288-5451 • toll free 877-585-0085 Located between Orlando and Miami, just north of Palm Beach • I-95 Exit 101 • Turnpike Exit 133

18 FLORIDA

JANUARY 2017

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 18

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 5:21 PM

WIT

HOL

IDA YB

HS 2,5 IGNED 00 in F CONT MO ree R DE upg ACT B LH rad Y OM es P JANU ES LUS ARY OP HOA 31 EN DA fee ST, 2 ILY sp , 10 aid 017 !

AM $

ON

US

OFF

ER!

–5P

M

26 Homes sold; Only 12 remain Starting at $475,000 Genuine “River to Ocean” Living on a Barrier island

steps from the beach | gated Community | Water access

38 New Single Family Homes Located on North Hutchinson Island Approximately 10 Minutes South of Downtown Vero Beach Dockage I Private Beach Access I Pet Friendly I Surrounded by 2000 acres of State Parks T (772) 494-1500 F (772) 494-1501 W LiveTarponFlats.com

P (561) 833-5500 | W heatoncompanies.com | 277 Royal Poinciana Way #156, Palm Beach, FL 33480

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 19

JANUARY 2017

FLORIDA 19

12/15/16 5:21 PM

20 FLORIDA

JANUARY 2017

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 20

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 5:21 PM

FINALLY, FINALLY, FINALLY...

BAY BOAT WITH FAMILY AND SAFETY IN MIND A 24 FOOT PREMIUM

239-574-7800 www.ActionCraft.com Comfortable SeaDek and layout pad

Backrest for bow seats

Flush-mounted seat cushions

Most storage space

Largest walk-in console with porta potty optional (not shown)

Largest rear casting deck

Largest cockpit

Seating for 8-10 people

Highest gunwales

COMPARE, COMPARE, COMPARE! 2ND TO NONE

Safety handrail

Most freeboard Qui-Dry hull for quiet and dry ride

Driest/Safety hull for inshore/offshore

Swim platform and ladder

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 21

JANUARY 2017

FLORIDA 21

12/15/16 5:21 PM

!

D R O F F A N A C E YOU

C N A M PEFOR

Our Quality built Boats from 18 – 24 feet are designed for A MIND BLOWING PERFORMANCE! All come designed for a shallow draft and a deep – V that provides the perfect combination for both inshore and light offshore fishing.

D N A O M E D L A N O S R E P R U YO E L U D E H C S D N A Y A D O T L L CA AY AW N W O L B E B O T PARED Lake

GET PRE

lando

A TAMP

Or North

rine

ce Ma

Sour Power

4 91-144

ine

r ily Ma 's Fam 600 a id r Flo 07-6 407-9

Placid

ine e Mar rmanc 2814 o f r e P 65863-4

JANUARY 2017

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 22

e Marin Toho 66 6 6 907-

407-

Powered By

813-9

22 FLORIDA

mee

Kissim

www.BlazerBoats.com COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 5:21 PM

00 Over 1 oats B uality les ic & Veh le!

For Sa

MARINE-SPORTING GOODS, INC. Marine Sporting Goods, Inc.

BOAT & ATV SALE March 7, 8, 9, 10, 2013

I-75

Office Max Boat ATV Sale

LC Medical Center

LC Mall

386-752-2500 386-752-2500 www.mcduffiemarine.com www.mcduffiemarine.com 1866 West US 90, Lake City, FL

Fina Avai ncing lable !

Hwy 90

POT THE S NG! I NANC

BEST PR OF TH ICES E YEAR

Office Max Parking Lot, West US Hwy. 90 Lake City, FL

en:

Thursday, March 7th thru Sunday, March 10th

e:

Thursday - Saturday 9 am to 6 pm Sunday 9 am to 4 pm

Fina Avai ncing lable !

ation: wy. 90 West ffice Max Parking Lot cross from Lake City Mall

Huge Rebates THE BEST BRANDS AVAILABLE

Custom Golf Carts

Quality AT MCDUFFIE’S

Pre-owned Boats In Stock

es Best Pric e Of Th Servicing ar! the North Florida area for over 60 years.

Ye

WWW.MCDUFFIEMARINE.COM

Airline_Ad_CoastalAngler_8-1-14_Layout 1 8/1/14 1:14 PM Page 1

COAST GUARD APPROVED COURSE & EXAM

Free d Extende Service ts Contrac

SERVICING THE NORTH FLORIDA AREA FOR OVER 60 YEARS. WWW.MCDUFFIEMARINE.COM

*Credit approval required. Offer good on new loans only and may not be combined with any other offer. Rate may be higher based on your credit worthiness, boat and term of loan. Offer may be withdrawn without prior notice. Must mention offer at time of loan application. APR=Annual Percentage Rate.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 23

JANUARY 2017

FLORIDA 23

12/15/16 5:21 PM

AN OVERNIGHT SENSATION 30 Years In The Making

The New Sailfish

236CC Raising The Bar In The 23’ Class For Quality And Performance.

The New Sailfish 236CC effectively combines the 30-year Sailfish legacy with the latest innovations in center console design, to deliver a truly amazing fishing platform. With its sleek, dynamic profile and 6th generation VDS hull, plus a amazingly functional layout and solid SailTech construction, the 236CC is truly the gold standard in the 23’ class. Powered by either Yamaha or Mercury outboards, the Sailfish 236CC is functional, comfortable and perfect for both offshore and inshore fishing and family fun.

With an 8’ 6” beam, the Sailfish 236CC is easily trailerable with an integrated hard top frame that gives you more deck space than virtually any other 23’ boat on the market. Featuring an incredibly comfortable leaning post with optional built-in storage and second live well, an expansive hardtop for maximum sun protection, tremendous cockpit fishing space and plenty of coolers and fish boxes, the 236CC is perfect for inshore or offshore adventure.

On the 236CC, rod holders and cup holders abound, along with two 120 quart bow fish boxes, a built-in 27 quart forward facing console seat cooler, large in-floor bow storage, handy console footrest locker, optional console top organizer and a console face that can accommodate today’s larger electronics. Innovative fold-up seating in aft means plenty of room in the cockpit and passenger comfort when underway.

24 FLORIDA

JANUARY 2017

CANGL_FL1-FL24.indd 24 1 11082016_Coastal_Angler.indd

While true to our fishing roots the 236CC is definitely family friendly – with comfortable deep bow seating, a stepdown head, comfortable deep bow seating, telescoping ski pole and the highest freeboard of any similar sized boat. A Fusion Bluetooth compatible stereo with USB port and four speakers is available as well as lighted speakers and a satellite radio upgrade.

Each Sailfish is built to exacting standards using our proven Sail-Tech construction techniques. Kevlar reinforced hull, carbon fiber prisma beam supports in the deck, aluminum backing plates, chrome coated stainless steel hardware, top quality marine grade vinyl upholstery and high definition gel coats contribute to Sailfish’s reputation for durability and their high resale values.

The New Sailfish 236CC is a boat to see if you are in the market for a new 23-footer. Receiving rave reviews since its debut this fall, the 236CC is clearly an overnight sensation – 30 years in the making.

Visit www.sailfishboats.com for the dealer nearest you.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 5:21 11/8/2016 3:07:56 PMPM

r spread UNDER $200...The Doctor’s Choice For ADVANCED HEARING AID TECHNOLOGY How can a hearing aid that costs less than $200 be every bit as good as one that sells for $2,000 or more? Tremendous strides have been made in Advanced Hearing Aid Technology and those cost reductions have not passed on to you---Until Now.

“It is so much better than the $3,000 hearing aid I had been using for years”

Robert C. South Bend

The MDHearingAid PRO has been rigorously tested by leading ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) physicians and audiologists who have unanimously agreed that the sound quality and output in many cases exceeds more expensive hearing aids. ®

THE WORLD’S BEST HEARING AID VALUE Ear Hook

Hearing Aid Tubing

Volume Dial Power & Channel Switch

NEARLY INVISIBLE

Comfort-tip Ear-Bud or Domes

Try It at Home with our

45-Day RISK-FREE Trial

Battery Compartment 45-DAY RISK-FREE TRIAL

Outperforms Many Higher Priced Hearing Aids!

Since Medicare and most private insurance do not cover hearing aids, ENT surgeon Dr. Cherukuri designed a game-changing solution without sacrificing the quality of components that you can actually afford.

The result is the - MDHearingAid PRO®

starting out at well under $200

If you are not completely satisfied, simply return it within that time period for a

100% refund of your purchase price.

800-793-6914

GetMDHearingAid.com Use Code:

FREE BATTERIES FREE SHIPPING and

PROUDLY ASSEMBLED IN THE FROM DOMESTIC & IMPORTED COMPONENTS

CY95

For a Year Supply of

“I recommend them to my patients with hearing loss” Amy S. Audiologist Indiana The fact is, you don’t need to pay high prices for a medical-grade FDA registered hearing aid. MDHearingAid PRO® is a high performance hearing aid that works right out of the box with no time-consuming “adjustment” appointments.

You can conveniently access a hearing specialist online or by phone---even after the sale. No other company provides such extensive support.

Over 75,000 satisfied customers agree.

Now that you know, why pay more?

“I have had this aid two days and all I can say is WOW!” Terrsa H., Grove, NJ

The new Bote® Rackham paddleboard is specifically designed to accommodate the Power-Pole® Micro anchor.

Fishing is now officailly part of your workout.

www.power-pole.com

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

NAT_0117.indd 19

JANUARY 2017

NATIONAL

19

12/15/16 3:11 PM

TIPS FROM A PRO

FRESHWATER WINTERTIME CRAPPIE FISHING

BRANDON LESTER

E

very year as my bass tournament season comes to an end, I start thinking about crappie fishing. I like to take a break and let the competitive flames refuel a bit. When the calendar strikes November and water temperatures dip into the 50s in Tennessee, I take several days to go crappie fishing. These fish make really good table fare, they are also very fun to catch, especially the big ones like you find in winter.

I am well aware of how good crappie fishing is in spring. But for the way I fish for them around home, fall and winter are when you can really fill the livewell.

It works the same way when fishing laydowns. I look for laydowns on vertical banks that have a good-sized trunk. If they have a big trunk, I know there is a good-sized treetop out in the water. If they are there, I will see them on my SideVision.

Once you find fish, cast exactly where they are or just beyond them, not 3 feet to the left or right. If you miss a crappie’s strike zone by 6 inches, you’ve missed it by a mile. Make the cast, count your bait down to the desired depth and reel just fast enough to maintain that depth.

No jigging, nothing fancy, just a

Crappie stack up in large schools this time of year, at it’s not hard to catch them if you know what to look for.

Crappie always hang around cover of some type. The two key pieces of structure on my home water are boat docks and laydowns. There are a few docks that seem to always hold fish, but I like to hunt for them with my Raymarine electronics. I turn on SideVision mode and start searching. Crappie will be in big schools, and I might go down a line of 50 docks with only one dock holding the mother lode.

To see how big they are and to make sure they are crappie, I will put an Aqua Vu camera down there and check them out.

Most of the docks I fish are floating, and the magical depth is normally at least 20 feet of water under the dock. The crappie will normally be suspended under these docks anywhere from 8 to 15 feet down, depending on the water clarity.

slow reel.

My favorite jig head is a 1/32-ounce ball-shaped jig head with a good sharp Mustad hook, but I will go up to a 1/16-ounce if the wind is blowing or I’m fishing deeper than normal. Any soft plastic minnow imitation in the 2-inch range with a straight tail will work. Stay away from twist-tail grubs for this method because they cause your bait to rise too much. I use a S721 MHX rod built with supplies from Mud Hole Custom Tackle, including a Winn grip. It is 6-foot-long, super-sensitive and has the perfect action for controlling small baits. I team it with a 1000-size spinning reel and 4-pound Vicious Panfish line in fluorescent green. The green line helps me detect light strikes.

These tips will help you all the way up until crappie start moving shallow to spawn. These fish are fat and healthy this time of year. So get out and have some fun this winter.

Get more tips from Lester at

FISHINGMAGAZINE.FISHING 20

FRESHWATER

NAT_0117.indd 20

JANUARY 2017

Surprising Winter is the Best Planting Time

I am often asked when is the best time to plant fruiting plants. My answer is usually the same; the best time is 20 years ago or today. The second best time to plant is during the winter months. Plants are dormant, and can be easily shipped and planted with no stress on the plant because there is not a lot of maintenance once the plant or tree has been planted. Simply dig a good hole, water thoroughly

at planting, and take the rest of the winter off. Even though there are no signs of growth above ground, the root systems will have time to get adjusted to their new location and begin to initiate new root growth.

There are plenty of advantages of growing your own edibles. First of all, you know what has been done over the course of the growing season from a chemical stand point.

Second, the fruit just taste

better coming out of your home orchard versus buying fruit from the grocers that have little to no flavors. Thirdly, it is good for your soul and you will feel more connected to the environment and nature.

Whether it is an apple tree, muscadine vine or a blueberry bush; now is the time to plant. Let’s Grow Together.

Greg Ison, Ison’s Nursery and Vineyards, 800733-0324, www.isons.com

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 3:11 PM

FRESHWATER BOSSMAN TECHNICAL POLING SKIFFS

16,950

FR $

The Lure That Swims “ I had the chance to test the new Bossman TailSpotter and I must say I was very impressed.

I’ve run a lot of boats in my career and this boat is as good if not better than anything I’ve driven.”

•4 NEW Colors!

•Unique patented design •Works with soft baits!

• 2 hooks Included •Made in USA

Capt. Mike Hakala, Aqua Dream Lures

SKIMMER TUNNEL HULL

19,950

FR $

Scan this code to see the lure in action at www.keweenawtc.com

BossmanBoats_.25_0716.indd 1

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

NAT_0117.indd 21

6/16/16 4:55 PM

JANUARY 2017

FRESHWATER

21

12/15/16 3:11 PM

22

NATIONAL

NAT_0117.indd 22

JANUARY 2017

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 3:11 PM

N

estled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina, Jackson County is home to the Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail and its centerpiece, the Tuckasegee River, which dissects the county as it flows north to Fontana Lake. The “Tuck,” as it is known to the locals, is a beautiful tailwater trout fishery used for the 2011 USA Fly Fishing Championships, in which the Gold Medal was won by Team USA member Logan Egan.

The most popular time to fish the Tuck is during the delayed harvest (DH) fishing season from Oct. 1 to the first Friday in June each year. During this time frame, the Tuck is a catchand-release fishery with artificial-lure, single-hook restrictions. This stretch of specially regulated water runs about 5.5 miles outside the small towns of Dillsboro, Sylva and Cullowhee. The boundaries of the DH are marked by signage on the banks.

These regulations appeal to fly fishers and spin fishers alike. You will not only see anglers stripping streamers, drifting nymphs, and casting dries, but you will see a fair number of spinner fishermen taking good numbers of brook, rainbow and brown trout.

Jackson County receives an annual stocking of 92,800 trout, the most in the state of North Carolina. In October and November 2016, the Tuck DH section was stocked with 19,600 trout.

Rainbow and brook trout made up about 80 percent of this number, and the other 20 percent were brown trout.

Normally, trout reach 12 inches in length before making it into the Tuck, but anglers should expect to see, and potentially land, some trophy-sized trout on any drift or presentation.

Many anglers wade the river, and drift boats are also popular. Stream flow is controlled by Duke Energy, which posts three days of release schedules on their website, www.duke-energy. com under the Nantahala link. Duke Energy has also provided boat ramps on Old Cullowhee Road and North River Road that many drifters use while floating the Tuck. South River Road is a popular area for anglers and guides due to the number of pull-offs that parallel the river and make accessing the river easy. Access to the Tuckasegee is great compared to some other rivers in the area, but there is some posted private property. Be sure to avoid it.

The Tuck is also part of the North Carolina Mountain Heritage Trout Waters program, which allows anglers to fish with a special three-day license that costs only $5. Many anglers opt to purchase a regular fishing license with a trout stamp since the fee is fair and it gives access to almost all the state’s trout waters. A non-resident can purchase a 10-day fishing license and trout stamp for $33 or an annual fishing license and trout stamp for $51.

The Tuck DH runs very close to downtown Sylva, yet its beauty catches most first-time anglers off guard.

In fall, the red, yellow and orange leaves dancing on the trees highlight the contours of the surrounding mountains. A bald eagle might closely judge your fishing skills, watching for its opportunity to show you how it’s done.

Winter brings cleansing and the occasional snowfall, in which many local anglers find solitude chasing trout on tiny midges. Winter fishing pressure is minimal, which makes it a great time to land a large trout if you’re willing to test your mental toughness wading in cold water.

Spring comes to life with budding trees and insects hatching, signaling the coming summer. Anglers spend late evenings on the Tuck sight casting to rising trout honed in on larger dry flies and emerger patterns. Spring evenings can be very peaceful, since most anglers have broken down their rods by 6 p.m. and are headed to the local brewery or one of the many unique restaurants or food trailers in downtown Sylva or Dillsboro. There is a list of local restaurants and breweries at www.mountainlovers.com, or just ask local fly shop employees for their recommendation.

In 2016, the North Carolina General Assembly proclaimed Jackson County the Official Trout Capital of North Carolina. Jackson County is home to 4,600 miles of trout streams with a good mixture of hatchery supported streams and wild streams.

Check out www.NCTroutcapital.com for more information.

Jackson County was also the first to have an officially designated Fly Fishing Trail, which highlights 15 different streams and rivers for any angler to test their skills. Many have taken the challenge of catching and releasing trout or smallmouth bass in each location. There is a map that gives detailed information about each stream, directions, and the type of fish anglers can expect to catch.

More information is available at www. flyfishingtrail.com.

If you are looking for a fishery with plenty of trout and the opportunity to catch a 25-incher, the Tuck is for you. It is relatively close to Atlanta, Knoxville, Charleston and Charlotte. The Tuck is just an hour west of Asheville, N.C., and it is at the base of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Blue Ridge Parkway. This makes for a nice and easy weekend retreat, or it can be a popular destination for longer stays due to accessibility and other local attractions. Come and experience North Carolina trout fishing at its best!

Shannon Messer owns Appalachian Flies and manages and guides at Blackrock Outdoors Orvis Authorized Fly Shop at 570 West Main Street, Sylva NC 28779. Contact him at 828-6314453 or appalachianflies@gmail.com.

North Carolina’s Tuckasegee River, A Southern Gem

By Shannon Messer

For more fishin’ on the North Carolina Tuckasegee River, go to

ANGLERSFRESHWATER.COM COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

NAT_0117.indd 23

JANUARY 2017

NATIONAL

23

12/15/16 3:11 PM

FISH & FISHING

A DIFFERENT APPROACH MARK SOSIN

I

t’s commonplace today, but more than a halfcentury ago few anglers even thought about it.

The late Dr. Webster Robinson wanted to catch either a sailfish or striped marlin on a fly rod while casting from a boat that was out of gear so that the fly was not being trolled. Working with his skipper, Capt. Lefty Reagan, these angling legends fathered the concept of teasing a fish.

They reasoned that if they could raise a billfish on a hookless bait, capture its total attention by keeping the tasty morsel just out of reach, work the fish within casting range and substitute a different offering at the last minute, the mission would be successful. I knew both men well and listened intently as Web Robinson described the process to me in detail. He even gave me a copy of the fly he used.

Teasing ranks as an extremely effective technique for countless species in a variety of situations. Working on sailfish or marlin on the offshore grounds is just one phase. Sometimes known as bait-andswitch, it’s nothing more than using a live bait, dead bait or a certain artificial to excite a fish enough so it will eat the lure or bait you want it to devour on the tackle of your choice.

Very light tackle enthusiasts often tease their quarry into striking so that the line doesn’t break on the initial contact. I’ve teased countless species from sharks, albacore and tuna to striped bass, redfish, barracuda, amberjack, snook and many more.

Let me share a couple examples to show you how effective teasing can be. Using a spinning outfit, I rigged a plastic worm exactly the same way as I would for largemouth bass. Pacific sailfish normally don’t include plastic worms as part of their diet. We teased one with a bonito belly and, once the boat was out of gear, I cast the worm. My partner yanked the teaser out of the water and the fish inhaled a plastic worm faster than you can read this.

I met a man who showed me beautiful flies for offshore species.

When I told him I could catch a sailfish on a cigar just as easily as with one of his flies, he laughed at me. We were shooting a television show in Panama, and late in the day Capt. Karl Anderson asked if I had a cigar. He rigged it with a leader and hook, attached it to a flyrod and waited for a sailfish to show in the trolled teasers. We stopped the boat, Karl yanked the teaser away from the fish, and I cast the cigar. Within seconds, the sailfish crashed the cigar, went airborne, and all you could see was tobacco showering through the air. As Karl put it, that’s no longer theory.

Teasing fish opens a broad new dimension to the sport. As an angler, it allows you to hook fish on all types of tackle using any bait or lure you choose including cigars and plastic worms. Try it and you’ll become hooked on the technique just as I am.

For More Mark Sosin Visit

CAMFISHING.COM

www.power-pole.com

NORTHEAST MARINE ST. PETERSBURG, FL

PWC Fishing Towers

Enclosures

24

NATIONAL

NAT_0117.indd 24

JANUARY 2017

Rod Holders

Casting Platform

E-Box

Accessory Mounts

Lights

Storage Bag

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 3:11 PM

FLY FISHING

CASTING FOR REDFISH: BEYOND THE DOUBLE HAUL

I

t is well-known that the double haul and the back cast are essential for fly fishing for redfish. Here are three more casts I believe are very important when targeting winter reds with a fly.

Fly Repositioning Cast This cast is wonderful when you need to recast a fly to a redfish that refused it or when you missed your target. It works best when 20 or more feet of line are outside the tip-top. It is essential to the success of this cast to not rush picking the fly line up off the water.

The key is to load for the back cast by beginning with the rod tip close to the water and slowly lifting the line off the water. Then wait to feel the rod load on the back cast. Once you feel the rod load, make a forward cast, allowing the fly to hit the mark. I’ve witnessed far too many fishermen rush to recast, and in doing so, miss their target on the second cast.

The Quick-Cast For The Short Game When sight casting, you will need to execute some short, quick accurate casts. The short cast is one of the most difficult casts to make because a fly rod made for short casting has yet to be built.

When red fishing, unless I know I’ll be making long casts, I keep roughly 40 feet of fly line stripped into a line management basket (a bucket if fishing from a skiff) and 20 feet of line outside the fly rod’s tip-top. The first 15 feet of the belly section of the line will easily load the fly rod with minimal false casting. Place the fly between the index finger and thumb of the hand not holding the rod. If a redfish is spotted at close range, make a back cast while at the same time releasing the fly from your hand and cast to the redfish.

Master The Cross-Wind Cast The wind blows where redfish live. The most difficult winds to a fly flinger are the cross-wind and the following-wind. Both are guaranteed to give the angler fits.

The best cast for these challenging situations is the Belgian cast, a very quick cast that when executed correctly presents the fly under challenging conditions. The key is to make an extended side-armed back cast, followed by a high extended-arm overhead cast that will provide the angler distance when working in a big wind. A word of caution: The side cast may produce the painful problem of a fly imbedded in the angler if the wind is blowing toward the casting arm.

Put It To The Test When targeting winter redfish, the fly angler will be presented with many different casting situations depending on weather conditions. It’s important to understand and execute each of the casting techniques discussed. Once mastered, a trophy redfish is only a cast away!

Conway Bowman caught this 41.65-pound IGFA fly-caught world record redfish out of Hopedale, La.

For More Fly Fishing with Bowman, go to

CAMFLYFISHING.COM

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

NAT_0117.indd 25

JANUARY 2017

NATIONAL

25

12/15/16 3:11 PM

FISHING AND DIVING

The Maldives

By Capt. Terry Fisher

di v

l

d

L

iv

e s, I n di a

l Oc

ean • Ma

BUCI S T

ean • Ma

n e s, I n di a

Oc

201K7ET n

I

t had been 20 years since I had boarded a followed by fishing. The Maldivian government live-a-board to fish and dive. My friend, Capt. is famous for it’s eco-friendly approach and Wayne Hasson, president of Aggressor and serious application to fish conservation. The Dancer Fleets, invited me to accompany him to government’s prohibition of net and long-line the Maldives for a world-class fishing and diving fishing for commercial purposes has sustained the expedition. Over the years, Wayne and I have abundance of fisheries. Commercial fishermen use fished and dived many exotic locations, including line and pole, preventing by-catch of species other waters of the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Pacific than their main target, which is tuna. Sport fishing, and Atlantic. This was my first visit to the Indian therefore, has thrived. Among the game fish found Ocean. are giant trevally, barracuda, wahoo, dorado, A three-leg flight from Miami through New yellowfin tuna, sailfish and marlin. Bonefish and York and Dubai landed us in Male, the small, permit inhabit the flats. bustling capital of the Maldives. Upon arrival, There are many charter fishing operations Wayne and I quickly cleared customs and were in the Maldives. I had numerous opportunities to assisted by a friendly and helpful crew of the be transported to beautiful sand beaches in the mother ship. We were transported aboard a ‘Dhoni’ middle of the Indian Ocean to fish for bonefish, (dinghy) by water, to lush accommodations aboard giant trevally, jack crevalle and other species. the Maldives Aggressor. This live-a-board vessel While sailing to new dive sites, we used a ‘Dohni’ boasts a full-service galley, huge salon, 10 guest to troll and catch tuna, sailfish, wahoo and dorado. state rooms and decks for relaxing, sunbathing, At night aboard the Maldives Aggressor, we dining under the stars or just getting away for bottom fished for grouper and snapper. some private time. This luxury yacht offered all Trolling, spinning, fly-fishing gear, including of the comforts and amenities of a five-star, land- lures and fly presentations are basically the same as based property with toilets, lavatory and shower we use in the states. Diving various locations and facilities to satisfy the most demanding guests. seeing up close the numerous species that I would This voyage, Dive with the Owners Week, fish for was an added and educational bonus. provided me the benefit of being surrounded Perfect water clarity offered a vast array of marine by a number of crew, divers and fishermen, life at every dive destination. representing more than 10 different countries.

The Maldives is a nation of islands. It is also For information on this trip of a lifetime, visit the “Honeymoon Capital” of Europe and parts www.maldivesfishing.com or www.aggressorfleet. of Asia. Temperatures range from 77 to 86. There com. Contact Capt. Terry Fisher of Cape Coral, are 26 atolls with 1,190 islands. One island boasts Florida’s Fish Face Charters at fishfacecharters@ a rainforest. Only 209 of the islands are inhabited yahoo.com. with a total population For more fishing in the Maldives, go to of only 400,000.

Tourism is the leading industry,

CAMOFFSHORE.COM

W E B R E A T H E B L U E WA T E R P r ot e c t UV ® M ega So lar

WHEN ONLY THE BEST WILL DO. Now available at

26

NATIONAL

NAT_0117.indd 26

JANUARY 2017

eat u r i wf no

ng ar two

TM

®

50+

rk b y

800.606.4003 · denaliperformance.com

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 3:11 PM

A

ll tournament anglers want to win. The questions are: How bad do you want that win? How much are you willing to sacrifice? How much are you willing to put on the line chasing the big win?

The answers aren’t cut-and-dry or crystal clear. Most tournament anglers I know are perfectly content competing at the club and local level for beer money. But don’t underestimate the will of those guys either. I recently competed in a Deerpoint Team Trail event with Travis Poole in which a win would have been a few hundred dollars for us to split.

It was low threat, low entry fee and big fun. You’d think that given the conditions that day, any sane man would’ve stayed at home. Approximately 4 inches of rain fell that day, the wind blew and lightning popped around our heads all day. Still, most guys that entered the event that morning brought their catch to the scales in the pouring rain hoping to claim the prize. The weather didn’t seem to dampen their desires one bit. They wanted it bad enough, at least they did that day.

For the professional angler, the weather is just one of many elements they must fight to stay in the game. Family, sponsorship obligations, mechanical problems and financial burdens are just a few of the non-fishing issues that require an angler to do a gut-check nearly every day. All these things must be tended to before the angler can even set out to find fish for a coming event, and he’s usually a one-man crew. Some of the top touring anglers have support networks taking on some of this for them, but rest assured, they didn’t get there with them. Stories from many of the top pros sound the same, tales about sleeping in the cab of their trucks for weeks on end, dining on peanut butter day after day, selling possessions off to fund the next event, and practicing in horrible weather because they only have two days to figure out unknown waters.

If there was one thing I could define that separates the successful tournament angler from the others, it’s this: he wanted more.

The guy in this picture is my friend Johnny Nguyen. He is a great example of what I just described. I can’t tell you how bad he wants it, but I can tell you he possesses at least one critical element for fishing success: the undeniable, unflappable, hard-core love for the sport. No tournament here, just him out fishing on a day he probably shouldn’t have been. But there he is, doing what he loves. Some get it, others never will.

Randy Cnota is the co-publisher of Coastal Angler/The Angler Magazine’s Panama City/Forgotten Coast edition.

For More fishing with Randy ‘C-Note’ Cnota, go to

ANGLERLIFE.CO COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

NAT_0117.indd 27

JANUARY 2017

NATIONAL

27

12/15/16 3:11 PM

T

hose of us who live life outdoors know it’s not always sunny. It can get downright ugly, and many times the best bite of the year is on the leading edge of a nasty front. With good foul weather gear, wind and rain should never stand between anglers and feeding fish.

Pelagic Gear, a company founded on and devoted to the ocean lifestyle, has developed a line of gear that guarantees anglers will stay happy and dry, no matter what Mother Nature sends rolling in.

Pelagic’s Dri-Flex Lightweight Jacket is perfect to throw in the bag for those dewy mornings or windy evenings when there’s a slight chill. Pelagic’s DRI-FLEX fabric provides the comfort of a lightweight jacket while protecting you from the elements with water repellant technology.

When it’s time to take protection from the elements up a notch, anglers shouldn’t get caught on the water without

28

NATIONAL

NAT_0117.indd 28

JANUARY 2017

Pelagic’s Hurricane Jacket. For more than a decade, this 100-percent waterproof outerwear has been the choice of hardcore captains around the world. It was designed specifically for the harsh conditions of the marine environment with technical features that cater to the needs of anglers. With welded zipper technology, reflective hex-safety patches and a moisture-wicking liner, the Hurricane Jacket keeps anglers dry and shielded in bad weather.

And then there are those times when you need protection all over. Pelagic’s Stormbreaker Foul Weather Jacket and Bib are a full barrier to the elements. The suit is made of a lightweight PVC that is 100-percent waterproof, yet comfortable to wear.

Again, it was designed specifically for anglers, with a loose cut for optimal maneuverability and plenty of ventilation. This is also the perfect rain barrier for the traveling angler. It is lightweight and packs easily, so an angler never has to leave the docks without the full protection from harsh conditions.

Good foul weather gear is essential to every angler. When it comes to selecting protection from the elements, it makes sense to choose gear designed specifically for fishing. Any outerwear will do if the mission is a stroll through the park. Pelagic Gear’s line protects anglers and keeps them fishing in the kind of brutal conditions only found on open water.

To learn more about the Pelagic Lifestyle, go to

ANGLERSDREAM.CO

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 3:11 PM

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

NAT_0117.indd 29

JANUARY 2017

NATIONAL

29

12/15/16 3:11 PM

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

44

TOURNAMENT

WINS

TROLLS 6-10 OR UP TO 20 KNOTS — NO WEIGHTS NEEDED

RIGGED N’ READY!

“TOP GUN” SALTWATER TROLLING LURES

714-545 0196

FREE SHIPPING!

6-pak Special $69.00 w/ FREE Case

www.BALLYHOOD.com

FITEC CAST NETS Fitec International has been providing the very best cast nets available to anglers for over 50 years. They are the world’s largest manufacturer of cast nets and their products are in stock or online with all major retailers and distributors where cast nets are sold.

The superior quality in their handmade nets gives anglers the fun and performance they deserve while out on the water. Hold a Fitec net next to a competitor and you will see there is no comparison. Fitec’s Super Spreader and Ultra Spreader cast nets are simply the best!

Fitec offers four distinct categories to ensure you are able to get the net you need. The patented EZ throw cast net is designed with a disc feature that is perfect for the novice. The RS, or Recreational Series, is designed for shallow waters or for the person who wants a lighter net.

The SS, or Sport Series, nets are designed with a 1-pound per radius foot weight system and are the No. 1 selling cast net in the country. Finally, the GS, or Guide Series, nets are designed for the serious angler, built with the highest quality standards and the fastest sink rate.

Fitec values your business. They go to work every day with you, their customer, in mind. Their mission is to “bring innovative quality products to customers, with drive and passion every day.”

WWW.CASTNETS.COM

Seeking to become the leading and most comprehensive manufacturer of all things diving and fishing, Hammerhead Spearguns has made another addition to its lineup of gear. They are proud to announce the launch of the Dentex NT, a utility glove so durable yet flexible it’s almost like having a second skin on the hands.

The Dentex NT comes with an ANSI Cut Level 5 and Puncture Level 3 and is woven from Hammerhead’s signature red Dentex fabric, but now it has a Sandy Nitrile coating on the palm and fingers, giving it increased resistance to heat and chemicals, plus additional grip. The Dentex NT is also known to be extremely pliant, molding seamlessly into your hands, so no clumsy mitten-hands here. You can even pick up a penny while wearing them!

The wide range of things you can do with the Dentex NT gloves is staggering. You can use them not just when you fish or handle tricky, spiny sea critters but also when doing repairs or squaring off with hazardous materials. Welding a piece of metal to fix your boat? Piece of cake! Filleting tuna? Sure thing! Changing lines and hooks? Say goodbye to line abrasions and getting pricked, stabbed, or poked on your fingers. Sharp tools and hot objects no longer pose a threat to your valuable hands.

WWW.HAMMERHEADSPEARGUNS.COM 30

NATIONAL

NAT_0117.indd 30

JANUARY 2017

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 3:11 PM

Airline_CoastalAnglerAd_3-2016_Layout 1 3/18/16 1:07 PM Page 1

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT ERGODOCK OFFERS IMPROVED RESILIENCE, AESTHETICS AND SAFETY

While many docks along the Florida coastline buckled to the force of Hurricane Matthew this fall, widespread reports from boaters and anglers indicated that docks utilizing ErgoDock technologies held up considerably better. With the damage and debris left in Matthew’s wake, the resilience of ErgoDock proved significant—not only because of its strength, but because of expected durability against future hurricanes that routinely batter the coast.

The ErgoDock difference is its inherent structural augmentation. ErgoDock is designed to provide a matrix that evolves the dock into a single structural component instead of a succession of individual parts like most marine docks are constructed.

Independent tests report that ErgoDock significantly outperforms all other dock options in comfort, safety and customization. ErgoDock’s unique texture, for example, enhances safety with a far more slip resistant material than wood or composite decking. The ErgoDock surface also is designed to allow more “give,” increasing comfort and safety by easing stress on ErgoDock owners’ feet, back and joints while also mitigating any potential injury from a fall.

ErgoDock prevents deterioration, therefore reducing the need for maintenance. Its products adhere with an impervious membrane to seal all decking materials and are self-draining, to prevent UV or water degradation of existing decking or concrete surfaces.

“Our purpose was to create a material that far outperforms all other dock options when it comes to safety, comfort, customization and longevity,” said Kent Weisenberg, founder and CEO of ErgoDock LLC. “There is nothing like it on the market.

ErgoDock is a multi patent-pending marine surfacing system that is revolutionizing the dock design and repair industries.”

Weisenberg, the sole named inventor on 28 U.S. and foreign patents, added, “We passionately pursue improving the world’s infrastructure with green technology. ErgoDock surfaces are made of sustainable materials that fight the depletion of our environment.”

ErgoDock products can be used in various stages of a dock’s life whether for preservation, safety, aesthetics or for any combination of the three. Still want that traditional wood dock look?

ErgoDock offers ErgoWood Decking, which is select-treated wood that is pre-dried and then encased in ErgoDock’s patented SafeTread material and prevents deterioration from sun and water while increasing a dock’s life by as much as 10 years over current decking materials.

“Add it all up, and ErgoDock products represent a major leap forward in dock design and repair,” Weisenberg said. “We want people to know that there is another option out there–one that comes with ergonomic elegance and represents a resilient, safe and viable option that contractors will want to offer their customers.”

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

NAT_0117.indd 31

JANUARY 2017

NATIONAL

31

12/15/16 3:11 PM

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT XTRATUF CAMO-LINED LEGACY BOOT Designed to keep fishermen sure-footed on the water, XTRATUF’s Camo-Lined Legacy Boot is the ideal boot for fishing in the elements. An interior camo lining and XTRATUF logo that are visible when the boot is rolled down adds a pop of color to XTRATUF’s classic performance boot.

Not your typical rubber boot, the Legacy is triple-dipped to create a seamless coating of rubber that further strengthens an already watertight material, thus sealing the boots and making them impervious to fish oils and chemicals. The soft, pliable and lightweight neoprene latex rubber gives the Legacy boots unparalleled comfort and flexibility. The hand-laye r e d construction allows for flex and strength at critical stress points on the boot. A signature chevron outsole design and unique rubber compound provides maximum surface contact for ultimate traction and stability in even the most severe fishing and work conditions. These 100 percent waterproof boots will keep the warmth in and the cold out when the temperature drops.

P SU CO

LIMIT 800-42 purcha Offer presen

S 7

L 8 p O p

P SU CO

WWW.XTRATUFBOOTS.COM

LIMIT 800-42 purcha Offer presen

P SU O C

LIMIT 800-42 purcha Offer presen

P SU CO

S 3

$

LIMIT 800-42 purcha Offer presen

32

NATIONAL

NAT_0117.indd 32

JANUARY 2017

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 3:11 PM

hft_coas

2000 WATT CONTINUOUS/ 4000 WATT PEAK SAVE POWER INVERTER

R PE ON SU UP CO

139

ITEM 60432/63019/63018

$

Customer Rating 69662 shown

$

129

99

$

16999 $268.99

comp at

LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt.

Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

WOW29 PIECE TITANATEIUMD SUPER COUPON

NITRIDE CO HIGH SPEED STEEL DRILL BIT SET

SAVE 78%

Customer Rating

$

ITEM 62281 61637 shown

19

SAVE $73

ITEM 60338 69381 shown

$

119

89

99

comp at 99 $163.06

LIMIT 3 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt.

Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

6" VARIABLE SPEED DUAL ACTION POLISHER Customer Rating ITEM 69924 shown 62403/62862

$

99 54 $ 99

comp at

69 $149.99

LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt.

Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

R PE ON SU UP CO 1500

LB. CAPACITY DUAL WHEEL SWING-BACK BOAT TRAILER JACK ITEM 69779/67500 shown Customer Rating

SAVE 37%

$

99comp29 at $44.99

27

$

Limit 1 coupon per customer per day. Save 20% on any 1 item purchased. *Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or any of the following items or brands: Inside Track Club membership, Extended Service Plan, gift card, open box item, 3 day Parking Lot Sale item, automotive lifts, compressors, floor jacks, saw mills, storage cabinets, chests or carts, trailers, trenchers, welders, Admiral, Badland, Bauer, Bremen, CoverPro, Creekstone, Daytona, Diablo, Doyle, Drummond, Earthquake, Franklin, Hercules, Holt, Jupiter, Lynxx, Maddox, Portland, Predator, Quinn, StormCat, Tailgator, Union, Viking, Vulcan. Not valid on prior purchases. Nontransferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/1/17.

WOW

SUPER COUPON

$59.97

GAS RECREATIONAL GENERATOR

SAVE 95

ANY SINGLE ITEM

comp at

R 900 PEAK/ PE ON 700 RUNNING WATTS SU UP O C Customer Rating 2 HP (63 CC) 2 CYCLE

R PE ON SU UP CO $

20% OFF

$199299

.com or by calling our stores or HarborFreight t or coupon or prior LIMIT 4 - Good at used with other discoun 800-423-2567. Cannot be from original purchase with original receipt. days 30 Original coupon must be purchases after s last. Non-transferable. day.

Offer good while supplie 5/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per presented. Valid through

$

VALID NOW ON 5,000 + ITEMS

99

LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt.

Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

NAT_0117.indd 33 hft_coastalangler_0117_M-REG98464.indd 1

How Does Harbor Freight Sell GREAT QUALITY Tools at the LOWEST Prices?

We have invested millions of dollars in our own state-of-the-art quality test labs and millions more in our factories, so our tools will go toe-to-toe with the top professional brands.

And we can sell them for a fraction of the price because we cut out the middle man and pass the savings on to you. It’s just that simple!

Come visit one of our 700+ Stores Nationwide.

R PE ON SU UP CO

RAPID PUMP® 1.5 TON ALUMINUM RACING JACK

WINNER

Customer Rating

– Truckin' Magazine

ITEM 95659 shown 61634/61952 • 580 lb. capacity

89

$

9999

$

99

7

$ 97 VALUE

LIMIT 1 - Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or prior purchase. Coupon good at our stores, HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Offer good while supplies last. Shipping & Handling charges may apply if not picked up in-store. Nontransferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/1/17. Limit one FREE GIFT coupon per customer per day.

WOW

SUPER COUPON

A

3 GALLON, 100 PSI OILLESS AIR COMPRESSORS A. HOT DOG

ITEM 69269/97080 shown

B. PANCAKE

ITEM 95275 shown 60637/61615

B

$3999 $

comp at

18 VOLT CORDLESS 3/8" DRILL/DRIVER WITH KEYLESS CHUCK

LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt.

Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

R PE ON SU UP CO

ITEM 69651/62868 62873/68239 shown

Includes one 18V NiCd battery and charger.

$

19

99 16 99 comp at

$49.21

ITEM 69249/69115/69137 69129/69121/877 shown

Customer Rating

RETRACTABLE AIR HOSE REEL R PE ON WITH 3/8" x 50 FT. HOSE SU UPCustomer Rating ITEM 93897 shown CO 69265/62344

$ $

2999

49

99$69.99

comp at

LIMIT 3 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt.

Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

R PE ON SU UP CO

Blade sold separately.

12" SLIDING COMPOUND DOUBLE-BEVEL MITER SAW WITH LASER GUIDE

Customer Rating

$

12 VOLT, 10/2/50 AMP BATTERY CHARGER/ ENGINE STARTER Customer Rating

LIMIT 3 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt.

Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

SAVE $499 64% comp at $8.48

LIMIT 8 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt.

Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

ITEM 60581/60653 shown

comp at

SAVE $259

LIMIT 7 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt.

Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

SAVE 57%

5999 $98.62

$ 99

2

SAVE 65% $

Customer Rating

7 FT. 4" x 9 FT. 6" ALL PURPOSE WEATHER RESISTANT TARP

SAVE $129

$ $

99 59 99

89

comp at

$189

LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt.

Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

Customer Rating

YOUR CHOICE

$319.01

LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt.

Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

R PE ON SU UP CO

SAVE 59%

15999

$119.99

R PE ON SU UP CO

6 PIECE SCREWDRIVER ITEM 62728/62583 SET 47770/62570 shown

SAVE $219

$5999 comp at

WITH ANY PURCHASE

Customer Rating

ITEM 69252 68053/62160 62496/62516 60569 shown

$

FREE

26", 4 DRAWER TOOL CART

SAVE $60

• 3-1/2 Pumps Lifts Most Vehicles • Weighs 34 lbs.

SUPER COUPON

$

ITEM 69684 shown 61969/61970

99 139 99

199

comp at

$399

LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt.

Offer good while supplies last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.

WOW SUPER12"CORATUPREAONCHDERET BAR CLAMP/SP

ITEM 46807/68975 69221/62123/63017 69222 shown

SAVE 85%

$ 99 $399 .76

2

comp at

$20

Freight.com or by calling prior our stores or Harbor LIMIT 6 - Good at be used with other discount or coupon orreceipt. with original 800-423-2567. Cannot from original purchase be purchases after 30 dayss last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must day.

Offer good while supplie 5/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per presented. Valid through

At Harbor Freight Tools, the "comp at" price means that the same • 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed • 700+ Stores Nationwide • HarborFreight.com item or a similar functioning item was advertised for sale at or above the "comp at" price by another retailer in the U.S. within the • Over 30 Million Satisfied Customers • Lifetime Warranty • 800-423-2567 past 180 days. Prices advertised by others may vary by location.

No other meaning of "comp at" should be implied. For more On All Hand Tools information, go to HarborFreight.com or see store associate.

• No Hassle Return Policy COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM JANUARY 2017 NATIONAL 33

12/15/16 3:11 PM 12/9/16 4:24 PM

34

NATIONAL

NAT_0117.indd 34

JANUARY 2017

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

12/15/16 3:11 PM

PENNFISHING.COM

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,

COMMON CVRS_0117.indd 3

and a smooth yet powerful Dura Drag System. The Slammer is not only back…. it’s better than ever before.

12/14/16 2:59 PM

COMMON CVRS_0117.indd 4

12/14/16 2:59 PM