Coastal Angler Magazine | January 2025 | Volusia County Edition by Coastal Angler Magazine

WINTER FISHING TIPS

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navigating peace of mind

THE IMPORTANCE OF BOAT INSURANCE

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

Unpredictable waters

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

Damage and injury

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

Theft and vandalism

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

Incurred medical payments

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

Peace of mind for fnancing

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

Navigational fexibility

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

Emergency towing and assistance

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

Wreckage removal

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

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

Scan to get a quote in as little as 4 minutes

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MAHALO, RODNEY...

By Ben Martin, Editor in Chief

On December 11th at 3:00 p.m. the marine industry lost one of its kindest and most heartfelt supporters. A lifelong supporter of environmental awareness, the love of nature and teaching kids how to !sh, Rodney Smith was the earliest proponent of Florida’s groundbreaking net ban. He was the founder and publisher of the original Coastal Angler Magazine, creator and tireless volunteer of its Hook Kids On Fishing Program. Capt. Rodney Smith spent the better part of his life trying to improve the marine environment and sharing the wonders of the art and sport of !shing.

Rodney’s love and kindness was boundless.

Lifeguard, !shing captain, surfer, author, entrepreneur, and friend to all, Rodney Smith’s time on this earth was well spent helping others and showing love to Mother Nature and the marine environment.

Anyone whoever walked with Rodney would have invariably returned with a bag or pocketful of trash that he picked up along the way and then a erwards meticulously separated for recycling. Anyone whoever disparaged anyone else in Rodney’s presence would have immediately heard something positive about that person from Rodney. at’s just who he was.

Loving father, caring husband and faith driven entrepreneur, Rodney’s life was truly exemplary and saintlike. He will be missed, but he will also surely receive the same pat on the back and heartfelt “Good Job” that he gave to so many others while here.

The Water

Those Who Seek Simplicity & Smooth Performance On The Water

Powered by twins, it runs over 30 knots and cruises efficiently at 20-30 knots. It’s a versatile, no-frills boat focused on rock-solid performance. Ideal for those needing a reliable, easy-to-maintain platform.

Hightlights

It’s a versatile, no-frills boat focused on rock-solid performance. Ideal for those needing a reliable, easy-to-maintain platform.

Whether you’re ﬁshing in a kayak, canoe, or small boat, the ePropulsion eLite 500W redeﬁnes your on-water experience with innovative features and commitment to sustainability. Designed to be the most

and lightweight electric outboard in its class, it is an easy-to-use alternative to small internal combustion engines for enthusiasts worldwide. Max 5.6 miles at half throttle and 3.5 miles at full throttle. Experience the eLite Difference. Go Electric. Go Silent. Go Fishing!

DISCOVER BOATING MIAMI INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 2025

A BOATER’S PARADISE AWAITS

The Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show (DBMIBS) is set to return from February 12–16, 2025, bringing an extraordinary showcase of the marine industry. is annual event continues to draw boating enthusiasts, industry leaders, and newcomers alike, o ering a combination of innovation, and community.

Highlights of the 2025 Edition

Spread across six iconic Miami locations—Miami Beach Convention Center, Pride Park, Herald Plaza, Venetian Marina, Museum Park Marina, and Superyacht Miami at Yacht Haven Grande—DBMIBS provides a multifaceted experience.

e Miami Beach Convention Center and Pride Park will host the latest in marine technology, boating gear, and vessels up to 49’’. On the water, Herald Plaza and Venetian Marina will feature a lineup of vessels, from sleek center consoles to high-performance powerboats.

A Boating Community Experience

e Progressive Boat Show Experience promises an engaging lineup of seminars, boating classes, and the popular AquaZone, an interactive space where attendees can test products and gain hands-on skills. For those looking to elevate their visit, Windward VIP tickets grant access to exclusive lounges, curated dining options, and concierge service.

Digital ticketing ensures a seamless entry process, with water taxis making it easy to explore the show’s sprawling venues. Water taxi tickets are sold separately.

From anglers to luxury yacht a!cionados, the show caters to all corners of the marine world. With its rich blend of exhibits, educational opportunities, and waterfront allure, it remains a must-visit event on the global boating calendar.

For more details and ticket options, visit www.miamiboatshow.com.

Cold Water Winter Fishing for Trout in the Smoky Mountains

By Joe Woody

When winter descends upon the Smoky Mountains, the streams and rivers transform into a serene and picturesque setting. For avid anglers, this season o ers a unique and rewarding opportunity to !sh for trout. Cold water !shing in the Smokies during winter demands preparation, knowledge, and patience, but the solitude and satisfaction of hooking a trout in these crisp conditions make it all worthwhile.

Trout are cold-water !sh, and they remain active during the winter, albeit at a slower pace. eir metabolism decreases as water temperatures drop, making them less aggressive and more selective in their feeding habits. During this season, trout tend to conserve energy by holding in deeper pools or near submerged structures where currents are slow and food is more accessible.

e Smoky Mountains, known for their pristine streams and diverse aquatic habitats, provide excellent winter !shing opportunities. e recent storm damage has not changed that, although access and former topographical structuring may be somewhat altered the !sh have adapted and so will anglers. Rainbow, brown, and brook trout can all be found in the cold, clear waters of this region, with brook trout being particularly prevalent in the higher elevations.

Winter !shing requires careful planning to ensure success and safety. e Smoky Mountains can get bitterly cold in winter. Dressing in layers, including moisturewicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outerwear, is crucial. Gloves and a hat are always a must: Nymphs, midges, and small streamers are excellent choices for winter trout !shing. Patterns like the Zebra Midge, Pheasant Tail, and Woolly Bugger o en prove e ective. Since aquatic insect activity is minimal in winter, imitating small and slowmoving prey is key.

clear, low water conditions. Using light tippets (5x or 6x) and uorocarbon leaders can improve your presentation and increase your chances of a hookup.

Focus on deeper pools and areas with slow-moving water. Dead dri ing nymphs under an indicator or slowly

Winter trout can be extra wary due to the

Townsend, this stream is a favorite among anglers for its healthy populations of rainbow and brown trout.

• Deep Creek: Known for its easy access just outside Bryson City, this area o ers a true remote !shing experience with just a short walk up its trail.

• Abrams Creek: Featuring clear waters and ample trout habitat, Abrams Creek is a reliable option for winter anglers

Winter trout are o en more active during the warmer parts of the day. Plan your trip to coincide with midday or early a ernoon. Low, clear water makes trout more alert to movement and noise. Approach the stream cautiously and keep a low pro!le. As any angler in these parts will tell you, always be mindful of slippery rocks and cold water. Wearing wading boots with good traction and a wading belt is essential.

retrieving a streamer can entice a bite. Pay attention to subtle strikes, as trout in winter o en feed so ly.

e Smoky Mountains are home to numerous streams, many of which are accessible year-round. Some top spots for winter !shing include:

• Little River: With easy access near

Fishing for trout in the Smoky Mountains during winter is a serene and ful!lling experience. e combination of tranquil surroundings, reduced crowds, and the challenge of cold-water angling creates an unforgettable adventure. With the right preparation and approach, you can enjoy the magic of winter !shing and make memories that will last a lifetime.

CHARTER BOOKINGS:

CALL THE CAPTAIN!

By Capt Quinlyn Haddon

Ihave been prompted to cover the topic of booking a charter a!er a recent experience I had that could have easily been avoided.

I was asked to work a charter with a company that I had never shed with before. e charter was booked last minute through a booking agency, that I will not directly mention. e notes of the booking repeatedly and clearly requested a full day o shore trip for yellow n. I went to meet with the captain, and helped him rig up for a tuna trip for the following day.

Yellow n tuna are not prevalent in the Florida Keys, but black n tuna are, so we informed the clients of this as we headed o shore in the morning.

Nearing the end of the trip, with a box full of tuna, the clients asked when we were going to get into the yellow n snapper.

e clients had wanted to sh inshore for yellowtail snapper, but they accidentally paid more for an o shore trip, simply because they used a booking agency and didn’t understand that yellow n and yellowtail were di erent species.

If you are wanting to book a charter, please call captains directly! Charter captains do not want to take you out on the water for a boat ride, we want to customize your day so you get the most out of it. Hearing about your expectations and helping answer your questions is paramount in our planning of your trip.

We do not do this job for the money, and most of us are scraping by. We have respect for what a big expense it is to book a charter. We understand that some groups may have saved up a long time to have this experience only once in their lives, and it is extremely important that we give you the trip you are looking for. We might even tell you to rethink the timing of your trip so you can come when your bucketlist sh is most targetable, something a booking agency knows nothing about. ey might be designed to take your money, but that is not what we are about.

If you nd a charter company you like through a shing booking agency, I would recommend going around them and calling a charter captain directly. Chances are that they have raised their prices to stomach the 30% fee the agency takes from them, and you can save money. Alternatively, they have not done so, and a direct call will put the money into the pocket where it belongs.

Booking agencies help ll the calendars, and for a lot of shermen whose strong suits are on the water, booking charters and advertising can be challenging. Some of the best captains have zero online presence. ere are a few agencies who aren’t as greedy as the one from this particular experience, and who may actually have knowledgeable people assisting you with your booking. However, nothing is going to beat speaking with the captain who you are hiring and sharing your day with.

We aren’t scary pirates or too busy to put in that phone time with you, and we are happy to connect with you before you book your trip. Give us a call!

Capt. Quinlyn Haddon guides with Sweet E’Nuf Charters out of Marathon, Florida Keys - (504) 920-6342. www.captainquinlyn.com; IG: @captainquinlyn

WINTER FISHING: SIZE OVER COLOR FOR SUCCESS T

By Capt. Michael Okruhlik

he question of lure size is a common debate among anglers, and while di erent situations require di erent approaches, one thing is clear: sh don’t read shing articles or watch YouTube videos. ey eat when they want, and as anglers, it’s up to us to adapt. In my experience, adjusting lure size is more important than focusing on color—especially in winter shing for coastal species like trout, red sh, and %ounder.

Size vs. Color

When things aren’t going as planned, many anglers immediately reach for a di erent color. However, I nd size to be the more important factor. Fish are typically feeding on prey of a speci c size, not necessarily a speci c color. In my experience, changing the size of the lure is usually more e ective than changing its color. If size doesn’t produce a bite, I might try changing the style of the lure next.

Changes in Estuaries

As winter approaches, our estuaries undergo several changes: cooler water temperatures, shi!ing forage patterns, less boat tra c, and o!en clearer water. ese changes create two schools of thought about lure size: go bigger or go smaller. Some anglers upsize their lures for the entire season, while others prefer downsizing. Both strategies can work, and I will utilize both methods.

Cooling Water and Fish Behavior

Cold fronts trigger cooling water temperatures and unpredictable sh behavior. Unlike the more consistent feeding patterns of stable weather, sh during early winter can make sh moody, switching between aggressive feeding and total inactivity. Late fall and early winter can be some of the best shing of the year, especially when schools of bait are %ushed out by falling tides. Hungry speckled trout and red sh follow these schools, and I prefer using smaller lures in these active feeding conditions. Fish are typically feeding on smaller prey like shrimp or shad, so a similarly sized lure is o!en the best match.

During these times, I also favor non-natural colors. When bait is abundant, sh can more easily spot a contrasting color, helping them target your lure amid the feeding frenzy. is is di erent from spring shing, where matching the color and size of the bait is key. In the fall and winter, standing out with an eye-catching color can be more e ective.

Clearer Water and Smaller Lures

Another reason for downsizing in winter is clearer water. In some bays, water visibility improves signi cantly during the winter, reaching depths of 6-7 feet of clear water. Fish aren’t accustomed to this level of clarity and can be more cautious. In these conditions, a smaller, less intrusive lure will o!en get more bites. When I can clearly see my lure bouncing along the bottom, a small presentation tends to be more successful.

Conclusion

Winter shing requires %exibility. By focusing on size and action rather than color, and adjusting to factors like water clarity and post-frontal conditions, you’ll increase your chances of success. Fish may be moody, but with the right approach, you can adapt and still catch plenty of sh.

Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures® and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.

SUZUKI MARINE USA ANNOUNCES RELAUNCH OF POPULAR 200HP V6 4-STROKE OUTBOARD

Suzuki Marine USA is bringing back a popular model for anglers and boating enthusiasts who want the torque, powerful hole shot, and strong acceleration of Suzuki’s 3.6-liter, 24-valve V6 powerhead in a 200-horsepower motor for single and multiple engine installations. Being relaunched as a 2025 model, Suzuki’s new DF200 4-stroke is an ideal power match for today’s heavy center consoles, large pontoon boats, and other popular vessels that can benefit from a little extra “kick in the rear”.

Suzuki’s V6 200 is packed with proven and award-winning technology, including digital sequential electronic fuel injection and Suzuki’s offset driveshaft design and two-stage gear reduction that allow this motor to swing a larger propeller. Together with this offset driveshaft, Suzuki’s 55-degree V6 block creates a more compact motor that fits better and balances better on the transom of today’s boats. Suzuki’s two-stage cam drive system allows for the use of smaller diameter cam sprockets, reducing valve angles and reducing the size of the cylinder head. The durable timing chain is equipped with an automatic hydraulic tensioner for years of maintenance-free operation.

Suzuki’s direct ignition system utilizes integral spark plug caps with ignition coils, reducing the number of parts, simplifying wiring, and reducing electronic “noise” that can interfere with radios, echosounders and other marine electronics. Suzuki’s high-output alternator produces most of its power at low engine rpms, ideal for keeping battery banks charged and providing the juice needed for livewell and washdown pumps, anchor windlasses and other important electronics gear on today’s technologyladen boats.

Suzuki’s 200 V6 also offers new-for-2025 features not previously found on earlier V6 models, including easy integration with Suzuki’s new CANbus system for easier and more reliable rigging, Suzuki’s easy start system, automatic trim, keyless starting and troll mode.

Suzuki’s DF200 V6 will be offered alongside the company’s existing inline 4-cylinder 200 horsepower 4-stroke, giving boaters two great options

based on their vessel and performance needs. While Suzuki is addressing an important market need for low-end torque and acceleration out of the hole with its V6 200, other applications could benefit from the lighter weight, balanced performance, and superior fuel economy inherent with Suzuki’s popular and time-proven in-line 4-cylinder design.

Suzuki’s 2025 200 V6 is offered in 20- and 25-inch shaft lengths and a choice of black or white colors with attractive matching graphics to best compliment a wide variety of boats.

To learn more, boaters should visit Diamond Motors & Marine. www.diamondmotorsandmarine.com.

KAYAKING FORECAST

I’ve been saltwater fishing in my kayak for years now, but I got invited to go fishing in an area I’ve never been to, mainly because I didn’t think it was possible! When Blake Abbey asked me if I wanted to fish the Jetty off Ponce Inlet, I thought he was inviting me to join him on a boat. When he started explaining that the weather will be good for us pedal out of the inlet, down the channel and into the deep blue ocean off the Jetty, I quickly realized this was a kayak trip! So, I convinced my kayak buddy, Amy Brown, that she should join us. I suited up in my Striker fishing apparel and met my friends at a local bait shop, Donald’s bait and Tackle. We launched our kayaks next to Hidden Treasures right after sunrise and started peddling out to the tip of the jetty. We were in a convoy of Skiffs, Flats and other offshore boats, mainly being driven by guides. At times, the wakes from the boats were making a washing machine effect as we were trying to set up in our kayaks to begin fishing. Thankfully, our Old Town Sportsman ePDL and 106 PDL are so incredibly stable which allows us to safely steer, and ride waves hands-free while casting our lines. This is when I noticed the boaters looking at us like we had lost our minds… It didn’t take long before we were in competition with boats getting hooked up on some very strong fighting fish. To my surprise and vocal excitement, we were hooking up with Permit! This was the predominant bite off the Jetty as I could see several other anglers in the boats hooked up all at once. I commented to Blake that I thought my line was going to spool or break since I was using 30-pound braid with only a 20-pound fluorocarbon leader. He had already caught several Permit, so he quickly grabbed my rod and told me to use his set up which was

a 9ft PENN rod and a 5000-reel spooled with 40lb braid, 40lb liter and a 1-ounce weight on a swivel with a small circle hook presenting a live shrimp. I remember thinking this seemed awfully big for the size reds, snook or even trout that I’m used to catching but I squeezed my way in between some boats and slung this massive set up out there anyway. I felt a tick on my shrimp and before I could get my hand on the reel, it started screaming and spooling. I pulled back and felt the weight of something HUGE! I was so caught off guard that my kayak was turned sideways, and the fish was dragging me to the point I thought I might tip! Blake reminded me to turn my rutter to face the fish and to go get him! The fight was on, and I was going for a ride! Between my screams and Blake cheering me on, the people on the boats around us all started watching in amazement and disbelief. Blake screams, “Oh my God dude, it’s a freaking Bull! It’s a STUD Bro!” My arms were starting to shake and wear out and I think I forgot to breathe because I told Blake to please help me land this giant with a net. After a couple minutes of trying to redirect the Bull Red, Blake was able to net my fish. It crushed my PB as we estimated it was around 40-45 inches and weighed 30lbs. It was so big and beautiful with its distinct drum spot markings. Thanks to Amy’s iPhone skills, pictures and videos of a giddy girl and proud guy ensued. A day I will never forget! Trust me, if you have the opportunity to get into an Old Town Kayak PDL, head out to the Jetty. You will not regret it! There is nothing cooler than taking a sleigh ride on a kayak getting pulled around by a giant bull redfish!

WENDY BILES facebook.com/wendy.m.biles instagram.com/wendy_biles_fishing

Ormond

Meet the Captain Capt. Will Wolfson

Capt. Will Wolfson is a lifelong Floridian and deeply passionate outdoorsman. After attending the University of Florida where Will got his degree in Agriculture, he opened his first business, Grassroots Guide Service. Captain Will is a detail and safety-oriented guide who maintains a meticulous line of vessels and utilizes all topof-the-line gear, in order to share once in a life time experiences with his clients, every time they join him for a guided trip. Some of the local guided opportunities that Will offers his clients are: Inshore/nearshore and offshore light tackle and Flyfishing, as well as guided alligator and hog hunts. Utilizing a versatile line of boats in his quiver, there are not many areas that Will can’t access. Outside of Florida, Will also offers guided fishing trips in Louisiana’s Biloxi Marsh where he and his clients target giant redfish and black drum on light tackle and fly gear during the fall and winter months. If getting on one of Will’s boats and chasing a trip of a lifetime sounds like something that you would be interested in,

www.grassrootsguideservice.com/capt-wolfson grassrootsguideservice@gmail.com

5 Sun 3:36 0.6 4:00 0.7 10:45 0.0 11:21 -0.1 7:17 5:41

6 Mon 4:30 0.6 4:53 0.6 11:48 0.1 7:18 5:42

7 Tue 5:30 0.6 5:53 0.6 12:17 -0.1 12:56 0.1 7:18 5:43

8 Wed 6:36 0.7 6:59 0.6 1:16 -0.1 2:03 0.1 7:18 5:43

9 Thu 7:44 0.7 8:06 0.6 2:15 -0.1 3:09 0.1 7:18 5:44

10 Fri 8:50 0.7 9:10 0.6 3:15 -0.2 4:12 0.1 7:18 5:45

11 Sat 9:50 0.7 10:09 0.6 4:14 -0.2 5:11 0.0 7:18 5:46

12 Sun 10:45 0.7 11:03 0.6 5:12 -0.3 6:05 -0.1 7:18 5:47

13 Mon 11:36 0.7 11:53 0.6 6:05 -0.3 6:53 -0.1 7:18 5:47

Tue 12:22 0.7 6:55 -0.3 7:38 -0.2 7:18 5:48

Wed 12:40 0.6 1:06 0.7 7:41 -0.3 8:20 -0.1 7:17 5:49

16 Thu 1:25 0.6 1:47 0.7 8:25 -0.2 8:59 -0.1 7:17 5:50

17 Fri 2:08 0.6 2:26 0.7 9:09 -0.1 9:38 0.0 7:17 5:51

18 Sat 2:49 0.6 3:03 0.6 9:53 0.1 10:17 0.1 7:17 5:52

19 Sun 3:29 0.6 3:41 0.6 10:39 0.2 10:57 0.2 7:17 5:53

20 Mon 4:10 0.6 4:21 0.6 11:29 0.3 11:39 0.2 7:16 5:53

21 Tue 4:54 0.6 5:06 0.5 12:24 0.4 7:16 5:54

22 Wed 5:44 0.6 5:57 0.5 12:26 0.3 1:21 0.5 7:16 5:55

23 Thu 6:39 0.6 6:53 0.5 1:16 0.3 2:16 0.5 7:15 5:56

24 Fri 7:38 0.6 7:51 0.5 2:08 0.2 3:11 0.4 7:15 5:57

25 Sat 8:37 0.6 8:49 0.5 3:00 0.2 4:05 0.3 7:15 5:58

26 Sun 9:32 0.6 9:43 0.5 3:54 0.1 4:56 0.2 7:14 5:58

27 Mon 10:22 0.7 10:32 0.6 4:47 -0.1 5:43 0.1 7:14 5:59

28 Tue 11:08 0.7 11:19 0.6 5:37 -0.2 6:27 -0.1 7:13 6:00

29 Wed 11:53 0.7 6:25 -0.3 7:09 -0.2 7:13 6:01

30 Thu 12:06 0.6 12:37 0.7 7:11 -0.4 7:51 -0.3 7:12 6:02

31 Fri 12:53 0.6 1:22 0.7 7:58 -0.5 8:33 -0.4 7:12 6:03

Ponce De Leon Inlet South, FL - Jan 2025

CAPTAIN MARTY GOLDYS 386-679-0317

Reel Harmony Fishing Charters reelharmonyfishing.com Inshore/Nearshore

Target Species: Tarpon, Snook, Redfish, Trout, Flounder, Sheepshead, Cobia, Tripletail & Shark

CAPTAIN TIM RUSSELL 386-846-1675

Captain Daddy’s Fishing Charters captaindaddysfishing.com Inshore/Offshore

Target Species: Redfish, Flounder, Snook, Tarpon, Cobia, Grouper, Wahoo, Snapper, Seabass, Kingfish, Mahi, Sailfish

CAPTAIN WILL WOLFSON 407-620-5263

Grassroots Guide Service grassrootsguideservice.com Inshore/Offshore

TARGET SPECIES: Snook, Redfish, Grouper, Tarpon, Snapper, Spanish Mackerel, Cobia, Mahi, & Shark

CAPTAIN JEFF PATTERSON

Pole Dancer Fishin’ Charters 386-451-4992

SmallBoatBigFish.com Inshore/ Nearshore

Target Species: Redfish, Snook, Tarpon, Flounder, Mangrove Snapper, Spanish Mackerel, Sea Trout, & Tripletail

CAPTAIN MARSHALL WALLOT 386-214-9595

New Legacy Fishing Charters newlegacyfishing.com Inshore/Nearshore

TARGET SPECIES: Redfish, Snook, Trout, Flounder, Black Drum, Tarpon, Sheepshead, Tripletail, Snapper, & Weakfish

CAPTAIN CHRIS ENDICOTT 386 547 4053

Finn-Addict-Fishing finn-addict-fishing.com

Nearshore/ Offshore

CAPTAIN JOHN J ELLIS 386-402-3957

Reef Wrecker Fishing Charters reefwrecker.com

Inshore/ Offshore

Target Species: Snook, Redfish, Grouper, Tarpon, Snapper, Spanish Mackerel, Cobia, Mahi, & Shark

CAPTAIN DANIEL LEVESQUE 386-295-4581

Rare Breed Charters rarebreedcharters.com

Offshore/ Nearshore

Target Species: Grouper, Red Snapper, Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Tuna, African Pompano, Alligator, Deer, Hog, Elk, & Wild Turkey

Target Species: Grouper, Snapper, Amberjack, Triggerfish, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Tuna, Shark, Sailfish, & Marlin CAPTAIN AUSTIN FERGUSON 321-439-5476

Ferg’s Guide Service fergsguideservice.com

Inshore/ Offshore

Target Species: Redfish, Snook, Tarpon, Amberjack, Sheepshead, African Pompano, Mangrove Snapper

Strike Offshore Adventures Suddenstrikeoffshore.com

Nearshore/offshore

Target Species: Redfish, Flounder, Sheephead, Snapper, Grouper, Triggerfish, Cobia,Amberjack, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Tuna, Sailfish, Shark, Golden Tilefish

PONCE INLET & BACKWATERS FORECAST

It’s that time of year again when the weather can be fickle but timing it right can pay major dividends.

Northeast Florida offers some of the state’s most picturesque and productive fishing grounds, with its expansive coastal flats drawing anglers from all over. This area, stretching from the waters around St. Augustine to the New Smyrna is home to a variety of fish species, making it a hotspot for both seasoned anglers and those new to the sport. The waters here are teeming with life, and the region’s shallow flats are particularly known for Redfish, Snook, Speckled Trout, Flounder, and Tarpon.

Fishing the flats in North Florida requires a combination of patience, skill, and specialized techniques. Sight fishing is one of the most popular methods and my favorite technique. This method is particularly effective for targeting species like redfish, trout, and snook. Anglers need to have sharp eyes, as the fish are often camouflaged by the sandy or grassy bottoms of the flats. They can also be seen partially exposed on the banks cruising for their next meal. They can be very spooky, so a stealthy approach is needed.

I’ve found the most productive times to target redfish in the backcountry is an hour or two before low tide. This is generally when reds will push through shallow waters and the banks seeking a tasty crustacean or shrimp. When the conditions line up, it can be an exhilarating experience. Having a shallow water vessel or kayak that can get you in the skinniest of waters will increase your odds of finding those reds. Keep your eyes constantly scanning the edges looking for backs, tails or popping bait.

When targeting back country fish, I enjoy using light tackle — typically a 2500 series spinning reel and 12-15lb braid. Lately, I’ve had success throwing a variety of colors of Vudu shrimp. When sight casting, ensure you properly lead the fish giving it ample space and reduce the risk of spooking it. As the fish approaches, a couple small switches should get its attention and invoke a powerful strike.

Aside from the outgoing tide, early morning first light and an hour before sunset can also be a rewarding time to fish. I generally keep a top water ready for those super slick calm mornings when you can spot bigger

fish from a distance and get them to instinctively strike. My go-to is a Top Dog Jr with the white body and red head.

If you’re striking out with artificial, live bait such as shrimp, mullet, or pinfish can help increase your odds of hooking up. Try hitting your local bait shop before going out, or make sure you bring a cast net in case you see a school of baitfish. It’s never a bad idea having backup bait available in case the fish are being selective.

Fishing the flats around Ormond/Flagler is not just about the fish; it’s about experiencing the serenity of some of the state’s most untouched and scenic coastal areas. The combination of stunning natural surroundings, abundant fish species, and the thrill of shallow-water fishing makes North Florida’s flats a must-visit destination for anglers. Whether you’re chasing redfish through the grass beds, stalking snook along the mangroves, or casting for tarpon under the Florida sun, the flats of North Florida offer a timeless fishing experience that blends adventure with tranquility.

What are you waiting for? Get out there and get your lines tight!

CAPT. BRIAN REVAK (386) 864-5208

instagram.com/brianrevak

Under NEW Ownership by Cody Moore, Third Generation Fisherman

New Smyrna Outfitters specializes in offshore bait and tackle as well as inshore, flats, and fly fishing gear. Along with carrying all of the equipment you need, NSO offers services like rod/ reel repair, line spooling, splicing, rigging, outrigger setup, and much more. If you are not looking for fishing tackle, that’s ok, NSO also offers the best in apparel, eyewear, drinkware, and more. Some of the quality brands include but aren’t limited to Costa, Bajio, Olukai, Free Fly, Marshwear, Aftco, Anetik, Yeti, Stanley, Hemlock, Salty Crew. New Smyrna Outfitters strives to carry the best brands and offer the best customer service.

NSB Outfitters specializes in offshore bait and tackle, as well as inshore, flats, and fly fishing gear, with extensive options in apparel and accessories. New Smyrna Outfitters has the knowledge and experience to guide through whatever type of fishing you’re looking to do.

There is a phrase that I’ve heard, and really love, but I don’t know where it came from. I’m going to quote it anyway: “The charm of fishing is going after something that’s elusive, but attainable, and that gives you hope.” Now, after I’ve wowed you with that statement, the hope is here. Pompano have arrived. Ya, mon!

The big scouts are hitting my lines. The Saragossa seaweed had disappeared - finally - only to be brought back with the high tide. Sometimes I can live with it!

It’s been very hard getting through the dirty ocean, waiting for it to clean up after the hurricanes, but it’s finally happened. The green-blue is getting back and the wind has died down quite a bit. Hurricane season is in the rearview mirror.

I hope I’m not putting the horns on myselfthere’s always the Nor’easters or two.

It still seems like it’s always high tide for most of the day. It’s constantly hitting the seawall, so there’s much less time to fish. I’m setting up in the low tide very early in the morning, as usual. I have very fresh bait: sand fleas are in abundance at the bait shops since the sandflea gatherers have gone back into business for the pompano season.

I’m also cutting up live crab, crab knuckles. Ya, mon! I’m watching the sunrise and these guys next to me seem like they’re starting to pound them, but I don’t have time to watch them, since my rods are starting to dance the hustle. That’s when you know the early bite is on, and I’m loving it!

Some big scout slabs are hitting the beach. Since it’s he beginning of pompano season I’d like to tell you, as always, all about pompano. Officially called Florida pompano, I call them slabs. They’re found from Massachusetts to Brazil. They usually live for 3 to 4 years and are usually around 2 to 8.9 pounds. When caught, they have to be 11 inches to the V by the tail, and you can only keep six a day off the beach - the

legal limit. They like to hang out in the shallow surf flats where the temperature is from 70 to 89°. They eat crab, clams, shrimp, and, of course, sand fleas. They live in schools and migrate up and down the coast, according to the water temperature. And they taste marvelous.

Right now, I’m running down the beach to a pole. That’s really looking like I like. I got a serious bend in it, starting to move down the beach with line going out. It’s making a run! All of a sudden it stops, and I’m able to reel it in. A nice 20-inch black drum, which, for some reason, many people are catching up and down the beach right now. A great fish to eat when it’s not so big. The big ones we call ‘big uglies’ and let them go. They are bottom dwellers. They use the barbells on

their chin to search for food. They have gray and black stripes, and they grill up very good. They are member of the croaker family, and are the biggest ones, and make the most noise. You can hear it above the water and when you catch them, they really sound out. Now that the season is starting, many more fishermen are hitting the beaches, which is a good thing. I’m just hoping when things start to get a little more crowded, the fisherman use good surf fishing etiquette to give each other space on the beach. It usually works out.

It’s also my season for surfing charters on the beach. I’ve been getting a few a week with people from Chicago, South Africa and California. They all come down to Wilbur by the Sea, because it’s one of the best places to learn and find out how to surf fish. Half the people that come to learn don’t even live on the ocean but have a dream about pulling in a pompano out of the waves. Ya, mon! Of course, if you want to hold the bottom, the best thing to use is sputnik weights, which I happen to get from the Sinker Guy, who happens to be an avid fisherman and knows all about holding the bottom. I use 3-ounce weights mostly, and I move up to four and I’ll throw a five only when I’m trying to be a diehard.

Surf fishing leaves no carbon footprint on the beach. It’s like we weren’t there when we leave all nice and clean. We’re sitting here in the backyard. Now an old Dancehall favorite name, Lieutenant Stitchie, is warming up the atmosphere. Making sure the coals are hot and me and these fish we caught today are heading to the smoker.

MARCO POMPANO

EDGEWATER BACKCOUNTRY FORECAST

Welcome to 2025, New Years Day is my favorite holiday of the year, we sort of get the chance to start over, new resolutions and all the different fishing seasons of the year to come. January can bring the coldest temperatures of the season both air and water, cold means clearer water in the Edgewater Backcountry, drop live shrimp, small live finger mullet, mud minnow, or a 1/16 or 1/8 oz. jig head with a small light-colored tail to the bottom of holes and channels. Trout, Reds, Snook, Drum, Sheepshead, or Mangrove Snapper may be in the deep spots.

On mild sunny days these same fish will come up to the tops of the drop offs and surrounding areas with oyster edges, flats, and creeks which will warm up a bit during the day’s sunshine. Fish slowly as cold fish will be sluggish, scan the clear water with your polarized sunglasses searching for signs of fish. A winter fish that will not be sluggish are Bluefish, found all through the backcountry, ICW channel, bridges, inlet, and surf. If they are swimming, they are eating, free lined live shrimp, cut bait, and small darting, flashy lures are best. A great fly-fishing target as they are not picky and eager to attack, their sharp teeth mean a little heavier fluorocarbon leader or trace of light wire, you may want to use lures or flies which are already scarred up because they will be abused by the toothy Blues. Sheepshead are always a winter

target, fiddler crabs are the best bait, followed by small live or peeled shrimp, best places to fish are bridge or dock pilings, also the Ponce Inlet jetty rocks. Serious sheepy fishers will chum their spot by scraping barnacles off the pilings or dropping cracked oysters to the bottom. Use a smaller sharp hook as they have a small hard moth, use just enough weight to hold your bait close the pilings, keeping your rig as stealthy as possible in the clear water.

Starting time for a winter fishing trip does not have to be that early, during a mild period, sunrise or just after is a good time to begin, but

on the coldest mornings, waiting until the sun has been up an hour or two can be a good choice, and mid-day into the afternoon is good, giving the fish a little time with some sun on their backs to warm up a bit. On a nice sunny day, late morning into the afternoon can be the best time to hunt Reds and Trout on the flats of the backcountry and Mosquito Lagoon, after the shallow water has warmed a couple degrees, fish dark bottom, oyster bars, and sand spots. Tail hooked select size shrimp, small live finger mullet, and mud minnows are good baits for the cold shallows, a small size, light color soft plastic or Gulp bait is a good choice for artificial, always fished very slow in cold water. Black Drum also a winter target, the best baits are blue crab and shrimp, they can be at bottom of deep holes and channels, Ponce Inlet jetty rocks, and Haulover Canal. Shallow water schools of Drum also can be found in southern Mosquito Lagoon, please consider photo and release on the larger “breeder size” Black Drum to keep the baby Drum coming our way for years to come.

CAPT. MICHAEL SAVEDOW

Edgewater River Guide

(386) 689-3781

CAPTAINKIDS with the

Captain & The Kids strives to always promote youth anglers both at the local level as well as nationally through our “Youth Angler Program.” If it was not for passing down techniques, traditions, and the love for the water, it would slowly fade away. It is our mission to always instill conservation and ethical fishing to our youth!

This months edition is featuring New Smyrna Beach Middle Schools “National Junior Honor Society” students. This group of student not only have straight A’s, but they give back to the community! They assist local shelters, food drives, beach clean ups, and much more to help our community. These awesome kids joined Sol Fishing in the NSB Holiday Parade share the Christmas spirit!

Capt. Evan started the Youth Angler Program after finding out how many kids in the New Smyrna Beach area had never been fishing, never been on a boat, and was born and raised in the area. Since that day Capt. Evan strives to getting more and more youth anglers on the water each and every year! Sol Fishing will do everything possible to make every young man or ladies fishing dreams come true. It does not matter if the kids want to go offshore or inshore, Sol Fishing will target whichever species they want to catch. Some of the most recent species that the youth anglers have been wanting to target are red snapper, lane snapper, cobia, amberjack, sharks, barracuda, redfish, and snook.

The Youth Angler Program is made possible by all our retailers who stock Sol Fishing’s gear such as our Hats, Decals, and Performance shirts and many more products. Stop by New Smyrna Beach Outfitters Outriggers, Donald’s Bait & Tackle, 38 Live Bait & Tackle, E & J Bait & Tackle Sunglass Cabana, Shades of New Smyrna Beach, Boaters Exchange, and Pedago of NSB to get your Sol Fishing gear to help support the Youth Angler Program! Sol Fishing’s amazing sponsors such as Tidewater Boats, Legacy Marine, Black Oak LED, Penn, Plano, Fenwick, and many more all make this amazing program possible!

CAPTAIN HIGHLIGHT FORECAST

January is here and with the cold weather can come some really hot fishing. This is a great time of year to fish the flats because of the crystal-clear water and schooling fish. As the water temperatures get colder, the fish school up and this can lead to “fish in a barrel” type of situations where the rod bending action is non-stop. Some of my favorite fishing comes after the coldest nights of the season, followed by high pressure, blue bird days consisting of a significant rise in atmospheric temperature. Early in the morning, look to find the fish laying in the deeper holes consisting of a muddy or broken shell/rock bottom, adjacent to the flats. As the day warms, the shallow water will warm the quickest and this is where the fish will want to be. Fish are primarily feeding on shrimp and crabs this time of year so natural colors like white, tan, purple

and blue are all good colors to be throwing. I’ve been having great success throwing Nasty Strike Baits that I get poured from my good friend Erie Peeples. His baits are available in many local NSB tackle shops…. just throw them out and reel them back is all that you need to do! With this clear water, use as light of tackle as you can get away with; you’ll get more bites and have more fun fighting your fish!

With

With A Menu

With A Menu seafood

Locally Owned With A Chef Inspired Menu

Millie’s offers fresh LOCAL seafood, meat and produce.

Millie’s south

3218 S. Atlantic Avenue