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By Capt. Mike Weinhofer hen I arrived in Key West more than 30 years ago, there was a sign on the fence at the airport that said “Sportfishing Capital of the World.” At the time I had no idea how special Key West was as a fishing destination. It isn’t that it’s the best fishery for any one species. The opportunities here are endless. It has a lot to do with Key West’s location and topography. Key West is a tiny island 120 miles out in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other. It has shallow waters surrounding it to hold bait and deep water near to shore. It’s a very unique ecosystem. It’s a natural migration point for many species to feed and breed. Shallow flats surround Key West and serve as a breeding ground for bait and shallow-water trophy fish. The tarpon migration is world famous. Whether you want to fly fish or bait fish for tarpon, they are always willing to entertain. The shallow flats are also home to bonefish and permit, the hardest fish in the world to catch on a fly. But while the flats are loaded with fish, it’s not just the shallow water that mesmerizes. The call of bluewater seems to ring in everyone’s ears. Just 5 miles offshore on the Atlantic side lies the shallow-water reef. The reef is home to grouper, snapper and all types of tropical fish as well as myriad baitfish. The reef is also a congregation point for bluewater fish. The small ballyhoo and other baitfish attract larger and larger fish to the shallows. It is not uncommon in the winter months to watch sailfish chase ballyhoo in less than 15 feet of water. Just outside of the reef, the water drops to about 120 feet in 500 yards, and then there is an area called “The Bar.” It’s the old coral reef from when the water table was 40 feet lower. The Bar is about 200 yards wide and holds all kinds of fish. It shadows the reef for about 20 miles to the west. The west end of the bar is a magical place, with east-bound current upwelling on the end, bait feeds on pushed-up nutrients, and where bait congregates fish follow. Now for the offshore bluewater. “Woods Wall” is named after the man that discovered it, the famous Keys fisherman Norman Woods. At
W
make even more structure. So close to shore and holding such a variety of fish, it is a bluewater angler’s dream. Amazingly enough, we have not even touched on the fishing west or the north of Key West yet. To the west lie shallow flats and a string of islands that hold bait, tarpon, permit, sharks and many more species. Then, when you get about 20 miles west of Key West there is an island atoll call the Marquesas. It is a special place. Flats fishers come from all around the world to fish this little island. Many stories have been written about epic battles with tarpon and permit and what a magical place it is at sunrise, when anglers watch shallow-water fisheries come to life. Farther to the west are 10 or so wrecks in less than 15 feet of water. Fishing around these wrecks is like fishing in an aquarium. The water is crystal clear and bait is everywhere. Whether it is barracuda, permit, cobia or sharks, the wrecks are alive with activity. Another magical place 64 miles west of Key West is the Dry Tortugas, a group of small islands surrounded by shallow water and some of the best bottom fishing in the world. The Dry Tortugas is home to Fort Jefferson, a national park and a whole other ecosystem I could spend an entire article describing. To the north of Key West lies the Gulf of Mexico, a shallow basin for the nearshore that drops to about 100 feet in depth at 40 miles. The Gulf is loaded with wrecks that hold all kinds of bottom fish. Grouper, snapper and cobia fishing is a blast, as is the jewfish and shark fishing. Never mind fishing behind the shrimp boats for blackfin tuna, bonitas, cobia and other fish. And there are the radio towers that stand tall out in 80 to 120 feet of water that hold all kinds of bottom fishing opportunities as well as kingfish, amberjacks, sharks and cobia. In short Key West is not the best fishery for any one thing, it has it all. The topography makes it like no place else in the world to fish. Its unique layout allows us to hide from prevailing winds and make even the worst winds fishable. Quite often the hardest decision is which way to turn in the morning, left or right can make all the difference. It is one of the few places you can catch tarpon in the morning, sailfish in the mid day and dolphin or tuna in the afternoon. Everything is just so close, and there are just so many choices it makes each morning a debate. After 30 years, I still enjoy all the hard choices. Capt. Weinhofer runs charters on the Compass Rose. Visit www. KeyWestFloridaFishing.com or call 305-395-3474.
the edge of the continental shelf, the top of the wall is 800 feet deep with a shear drop to deeper than 1,800 feet in a mere 100 yards. The Gulf Stream slams into this shear face and makes rips and upwellings. If that weren’t enough, there are cracks in the wall that extend inshore to 8
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For more tuna fishing in the Keys, go to
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Fight the blues.
If nothing makes you happier than battling a billfish, you’ll find plenty to smile about in Key West. Minutes from shore you can go toe-to-toe with behemoth blue marlin, the greatest gamefish of them all. You can chase after tuna and dolphin, too. Wahoo! fla-keys.com/keywest 1.800.527.8539 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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ON THE COVER 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 Freeport, Bahamas Yellowfin
FREE
Sushi doesn’t come any fresher than it does Outdoor 32nd Annual on the deck of the Finster when yellowfin Palm Beach Apparel International Edition Boat Show tuna are pushing bait off of Freeport in the Bahamas. This month’s Coastal Angler Magazine cover photo, courtesy of Picture Perfect Charters, is of Capt. Pete Milisci with a nice tuna that has an imminent encounter Local with a fillet knife and some soy sauce. Team Finster is an offshore tournament team based out of Fort Myers, Fla. They fish sailfish tournaments on the east coast of Florida as well as some offshore stuff on the west coast. All that sounds fun, but so does their annual spring tuna outing across the Gulf Stream from Fort Lauderdale. It’s the kind of trip most occasional anglers dream of, and these guys do it pretty much every year when the yellowfin show up. They spend the better part of a week operating out of a condo in Port Lucaya, venturing out just 10 miles from the docks each day to chase birds and catch big tuna. They load coolers with mahi, blackfin and yellowfin tuna, and even the occasional mutton snapper caught from the dock while they are cleaning the day’s catch. What more could an angler ask for? March 23-26
WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS WANTED! The Best American Hooks & Weights For Better #Fishing
Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events
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THE ANGLER MAGAZINE Lake Erie, Smallmouth Bass
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Over the last decade or so, Lake Erie, the fourth largest of the Great Lakes, has really taken off Outdoor Apparel as one of the best smallmouth bass fisheries in Edition the world. This has been widely credited to the arrival of the invasive round goby, a bottomdwelling species that has become a staple in Local the diet of bass and other game fish. Biologists have reported impressive growth rates of smallmouth bass in Lake Erie since the gobies took hold there. The long-term impact these invasive fish will have is not completely understood, but for the meantime they are propping up a great fishery. The photo on the cover of this month’s editions of The Angler Magazine is of Kayla Culp, of Ridgeway, Ontario and a chunky bronzeback she caught while drop shotting soft plastics in Lake Erie’s East Basin. She mainly fishes the Canadian side of the lake, where bass season doesn’t begin until early summer. Anglers on the U.S. side of the lake also get to experience fishing through the stages of the spawn, which typically begin with a pre-spawn push to shallower water in April and run into June when the fish retreat back to the depths. The photo was taken by her boyfriend, fishing buddy and all-around lucky dude Matt Sirianni. Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events
VOLUME 22 • ISSUE 265
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APPAREL Product Review XTRATUF KRYPTEK ANKLE DECK BOOT Introducing the Kryptek Ankle Deck Boot from XTRATUF, a beloved fishing boot brand popular amongst recreational and commercial fisherman alike. XTRATUF boots are a gear staple of every man, woman and child in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest and beyond, not only for the protective properties that have made them must-have gear for boating, sailing and fishing enthusiasts, but as a fashion and trend statement around the world. This boot is a simple, wearable way to achieve a fashion-forward look in a truly iconic boot with significant brand heritage. New for spring 2017, XTRATUF and Kryptek, camouflage design innovators, are collaborating on a new deck boot collection that combines the technology of the popular XTRATUF Performance Ankle Deck Boot with sleek Kryptek camo designs, including the Yeti and Pontus patterns (MSRP $90). It features a 1mm Neoprene XpressCool bootie that surrounds the whole foot and ankle providing all day comfort. Like all XTRATUF footwear, the Kryptek Ankle Deck Boot is 100 percent waterproof, and it includes a boatload of performance features. • XpressCool lining to keep feet cool in warmer weather • Full-rubber, lightweight silhouettes • Slip-resistant chevron outsole • Pull-on tabs for easy on and off
WWW.XTRATUFBOOTS.COM
L.L. BEAN HYBRID FISHING SHIRT With a unique combination of fabrics, excellent ventilation and built-in sun protection, L.L. Bean’s Hybrid Fishing Shirt delivers unbeatable performance. This shirt is slightly fitted to provide on-thewater functionality while looking good. A relaxed fit through the chest and sleeve as well as stretchy knit upper arms with built-in articulation allow for a full range of motion when casting. A slightly slimmer waist keeps uneccesary fabric out of the way when you’re fishing. The Hybrid Fishing Shirt features a blend of woven and knit nylon and polyester with built-in UPF 50+ sun protection. It’s breathable, and a caped back for ventilation will keep you cool and comfortable during long days on the water. Polygiene treatment prevents the growth of odor causing bacteria to keep you from smelling worse than the fish you catch. L.L. Bean has designed a performance fishing shirt that looks as good as it performs on the water. Trim for attaching zingers and forceps and streamlined pockets for gear complete the package.
WWW.LLBEAN.COM
SCALESKINZ MULTIFUNCTIONAL HEADWEAR Capsmith Inc. is the No. 1 trusted source for fishing and outdoor enthusiasts with more than 32 years of experience in the headwear industry. Scaleskinz Multifunctional Headwear can be worn many different ways, and will attract all the right attention with colorful detail and sun protection. Scaleskinz feature a seamless tubular design that can be worn in 12 different ways, including a cap, scarf, facemask, headband, neck shade or shape it to fit your needs. This exclusive product offers maximum protection against sun, wind and rain. Scaleskinz are the perfect addition to retail stores that cater to fishing enthusiasts. Available designs include Dolphin, Tarpon, Marlin, Redfish and Bass. One Size Fits Most. For wholesale Scaleskinz inquiries, contact Capsmith Inc. at 1-800-228-3889, or buy online at www.ihatehats.com.
REEF CONTOURED CUSHIONED SANDALS
Reef has become the go-to purveyor of sandals that look as good as they feel on your feet. Their new Contoured Cushioned Sandals are so comfortable you might not even take them off to go to bed. These sandals feature molded rubber sponge footbeds, so you really are wearing pillows on the soles of your feet. Synthetic-nubuck-leather uppers are stylish and durable, and they are padded with jersey lining to feel super soft against your skin. Finally, these shoes are outfitted with anatomical arch support to keep you comfortable all day long, through any adventure. What more could you expect from a company that is world-renowned for making high-quality footwear for those who enjoy life on the water. Whether you’re headed offshore or to the tiki bar, Reef’s Contoured Cushioned Sandals will keep your feet looking as good as they feel.
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APPAREL Product Review PELAGIC BATTLE GLOVES Ever look at an old salt’s hands? Fishermen are right up there with mechanics for having the most abused hands out there. Pelagic, a company that designs clothing specifically for protecting anglers from the harsh marine environment, has the perfect solution for protecting your hands while they’re doing battle. Pelagic Battle Gloves give anglers an edge when fighting monsters of the deep. These heavy-duty “Sure Grip” fishing gloves are ideal for fishing heavy mono, braid or wire lines and are Kevlar reinforced for maximum protection from line cuts, blisters, sharp fins and teeth. Made with open fingertips for maximum dexterity and finger maneuverability, they protect your hands while allowing you to do the intricate work of rigging lines and baits and tying knots. These gloves increase angler endurance, yet are versatile enough to use for fish handling, bill grabbing, fish filleting, and many other offshore purposes. With Velcro security and stamped with the Pelagic deluxe logo, Battle Gloves are a must-have for any offshore adventure.
WWW.PELAGICGEAR.COM IN GOGS WE TRUST! The Kluch Signature Gog Tee features a simulated goggle eye portrait complete with $100 bill background and Kluch lettering. Available in a variety of styles, this shirt is built of a 100 percent ringspun cotton fabric for that true comfort fit. When it comes to sport fishing, having the right bait means everything! The “In Gogs We Trust” collection was inspired by those brutal days fishing tournaments and being down a release needing another bite to edge into first. After countless attempts of creating luck, teams turn to their wells in search of the best-looking bait to catapult them onto the podium. When all of a sudden the right short starts acting up and there he is!
BODY GLOVE 3T BAREFOOT WARRIOR
Many watersports require toe dexterity, and that’s where the Body Glove’s 3T Barefoot line of water shoes shines. Whether you’re a top athlete, a beginner, or somewhere in between, 3T Barefoot shoes are the perfect footwear for everything water. It doesn’t matter if it’s Stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking or just swimming off a rocky shore, the 3T Barefoot is up to the task. A patented three-toe design allows for dexterity in the toes that need it. A minimalist, neutral-balance foot bed allows for maximum ground feel while keeping your foot protected. Body Glove’s Integrated Drainage System (IDS) lets water drain out while preventing debris from entering the shoe. It can be worn either in or out of the water. Other features of the 3T Barefoot include adjustable shocklaces, easy slipon design, hybrid use for in or out of the water, zero heel lift, and the drainage system, which cools the foot with air circulation when out of water.
WWW.BODYGLOVE.COM OLUKAI PA‘A SANDALS
WWW.KLUCH.COM A good pair of sandals is as important to life on the water as a boat, maybe more important. The Hawaiian company OluKai knows this well, which is why they make footwear designed specifically for the ocean lifestyle. At the core of OluKai’s philosophy are quality, durability, comfort and craftsmanship, which means their sandals are crafted to perform and last. OluKai’s new PA‘A sandals were designed with on-the-water action in mind. Translated, PA‘A means secure in English, and these flip-flop-style kicks provide secure footing while battling fish from the deck of a boat or while scrambling out on a jetty to cast. They are fully adjustable on both straps with molded D-rings and micro hookand-loop to ensure a snug fit so the sandals won’t fall off your feet. Water resistant synthetic straps and soft, quick-drying jersey knit lining provide comfort in and out of the water. The footbed is crafted of anatomical, compression-molded EVA midsole with a brushed ICEVA drop-in. The outsole features a non-marking, wetgrip sticky rubber base enhanced with rubber pods for durability and maximum water traction. If you’re looking for a sandal that offers all-day comfort and secure footing in any situation, PA‘A sandals are about as good as it gets.
WICKED DRY & COOL PERFORMANCE SHIRTS Hook & Tackle, designers, manufacturers and distributors of authentic performance fishing apparel since 1963, introduces the new Wicked Dry & Cool collection. Designed with a breakthrough Wicked Dry & Cool proprietary fabric that wicks moisture while keeping you cool, the shirts feature radial sleeves for expansive arm movement. The extremely light yet durable fabrication offers UPF 50+ sun protection, quick dryness and odor resistance. Tested and proven to be the coolest shirts in the market, they are now available in four designs from sizes XS-3XL. For more information, contact Stan at srudman@sportailor.com or visit the site.
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Lake Erie’s
Big Brown Bass L
By Nick Carter ake Erie boasts some of the best smallmouth bass fishing in the world. And over the nearly 10,000 square miles of surface area on this massive lake, the Eastern Basin offers some of the best habitat for bronzebacks. The Eastern Basin is the deepest part of the lake and is separated by a ridge that runs north to south from Long Point in Ontario, Canada to Erie, Pennsylvania. Buffalo New York sits on the eastern shore at the mouth of the Niagara River. Anglers visiting Niagara Falls would be foolish not to set aside a day for fishing the irregular near-shore topography that makes the Eastern Basin such a good fishery. Biologists see incredible growth rates from smallmouth in this area, and 5- to 7-pound fish are a regular occurrence. Kayla Culp, a teacher from Ridgeway, Ontario, has spent years patterning smallies on the Canadian side of the lake. In the Canadian waters of Erie, bass season is closed in spring to protect bedding fish. This is not the case for U.S. waters, where anglers take advantage of pre-spawn migrations as early as April. When the fish move up onto sand flats and chunk rock and into the bays and major tributaries in early spring, it is a time for bumping the bottom in 15 to 20 feet of water with spoons, tube jigs or blades. It can be a grind to find fish, but anglers who set up over a school will find plenty of action and potential for giant smallmouth bass. Lakewide, bed fishing is generally frowned upon. When the Canadian season opens in late June, smallmouth are typically feeding aggressively during their post-spawn transition to deeper water. Culp
said early summer is a fun time to fish the lake. Smallies will be on the weed edges, and they are susceptible to run-and-gun tactics or trolling with fast-moving lures like jerkbaits, spinnerbaits and crankbaits. Location is everything when fish are spread out over so much water. Some enjoy drift fishing to find fish. Culp said to trust your fishfinder and cruise, looking for rock-to-sand transitions. This is especially important as fish move deeper. In summer, big smallies will hang around structure or transitions just off the bottom. The depth can go from 10 to 15 feet in early summer out to 30 feet as the water warms. This summer bite is Culp’s favorite of the year. She enjoys drop shotting soft plastics and tubes into schooled-up fish. When it’s on, 30 fish or more from 2 to 5 pounds and larger are a definite possibility. A natural approach is best in Erie’s clear waters. Dark colors like green and brown make up the majority of Culp’s soft-plastic arsenal. This makes sense. It fits the color scheme of the round goby. These little bottom dwellers invaded the lake in the mid 1990s, and smallies developed a taste for them. Biologists have estimated that gobies account for up to 75 percent of an Erie smallmouth’s diet. The goby invasion is widely credited for accelerated growth rates of smallmouth in the lake. For more bass fishing on Lake Erie, go to
CAMFRESHWATER.COM
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The Freeport Meat Run
Lorem ipsum
An Annual Trip Of A Lifetime By Nick Carter
By CAM Staff - Photos Courtesy of Picture Perfect Charters
F
or some anglers, the fishing trip of a lifetime is an annual event. Team Finster, out of Fort Myers, Fla., fishes top offshore tournaments, but one of the highlights of their fishing year is an annual spring meat trip that coincides with the arrival of big yellowfin tuna in the Bahamas. Team member Pete Milisci, who operates Picture Perfect Charters out of Fort Myers, feels it’s well worth hauling Team Captain Zac Carpenter’s 34’ SeaVee three hours across the peninsula to launch off Florida’s east coast near Fort Lauderdale. Big yellowfin move through in late April and early May, and five guys spend the better part of the week chasing birds and filling fish boxes. The trip starts with provisioning and bait. As charter captains, team members begin saving and freezing leftover bait from charter trips a month in advance because chumming is key. They prefer fishing live bait, so the livewell is loaded with pilchards and threadfins before they leave. Provisions and gear are crammed into every available hold before they set out on what should be a couple hour run in front of twin Mercury Verado 300s across the Gulf Stream to Carpenter’s condo in Port Lucaya, Freeport, Grand Bahama. The crossing always takes longer than it should. It’s difficult for a boatload of anglers to pass up fish along the way. “Last trip, we had all the fish boxes full before we even got there,” Milisci said. “We came upon a whole tree adrift with mahi all over it. They were good mahi, too, all gaffers.” It’s a good thing there’s an ice machine at the condo. Even when cleaning fish at the dock, there is opportunity to put more meat on ice. Milisci said tarpon and big mutton snapper appear to clean up the scraps. Cooked whole and fresh, those snapper are fine eating. The main event begins after checking in with customs and unloading. “The fishing is right out front. It’s within 10 miles,” Milisci said. “You lose sight of land, and you’re in ’em.” Tuna move constantly, and they move fast. Finding fish is a matter of finding birds on the radar. Huge groups of birds are typically found over bonito, so Team Finster is looking for smaller pockets of birds that are a giveaway for tuna. They never pass a frigatebird without checking it.
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When fish are found, the boat is maneuvered in front of the anticipated direction of the school’s travel. The engines drop into neutral and heavy chumming begins with a month’s worth of frozen baitfish. “The fish are on the surface. They’re coming up blasting baits, and the birds are diving on the bait they push up,” Milisci said. “Sometimes you’ll see fins coming up on your bait.” When fishing in a maelstrom of 10- to 15-pound blackfin tuna and yellowfins weighing 30 to well over 100-pounds, it’s important to fish heavy gear. There are also sharks mixed in, and they will leave nothing but a fish head at the first hint of blood in the water. Anglers must crank hard and fast with 60w and 80w Penn Internationals spooled with 200-pound-test mono and 200- to 300-pound leaders. Anglers either reel fish in from the rod holder with bent-butt rods or fight them with a belt. Tuna will eat dead bait, but the team prefers presenting pilchards and threads on a slack line until they run out of live bait. Milisci said the fish are smart enough to let a bait go if they feel the slightest amount of tension on the line, so that slack is important until a fish eats. Then it becomes a grueling race against the sharks. The reward is almost immediate when a fish hits the deck. Wasabi and soy sauce are kept on-hand, and knives go to work while the rod-man catches his breath. For more on Team Finster or to contact Zac Carpenter or Pete Milisci, see finsterfishing.com. To book an inshore trip with Milisci out of Fort Myers, go to www.pictureperfectcharters.com. For highlights from this Tuna catch, go to
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Spawning Phase Will Play A Big Role In Conroe Bassmaster Classic
K
elly Jordon is not a weatherman. He can’t say for sure what the conditions will be when 52 of the world’s best anglers descend on Lake Conroe, an hour outside of Houston, Texas for the GEICO Bassmaster Classic presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods, March 24-26. But as a Texas native and a 22-year veteran of the Bassmaster Tournament Trail, Jordon knows bass are likely to be in some phase of the spring spawn— and he said the angler who best identifies that phase is likely to be the winner of the event. “If I was going to guess—depending on what the weather does—I’d say we’ll be toward the final quarter of the spawn,” said Jordon. “There will still be some fish on the beds, but there will also be a lot of postspawn fish.” A spawn/postspawn scenario could provide a lot of options, and it could certainly lead to some giant fish being brought to the scales at the Houston Astros’ Minute Maid Park. Jordon said the bluegill will likely be coming up to spawn, and big bass can often be found feeding around bluegill beds. Male bass are also likely to be guarding recently hatched fry, and big females that are hungry from the spawn could be roaming the shallows. Though some bass are likely to still be on the beds, Jordon said he doesn’t expect sight fishing to be a dominant technique. “I don’t think somebody can win on sight fishing alone,” he said. “You’re likely to see several giant fish caught off beds or maybe a key 5-pounder at a time when someone really needs it. But I don’t think it’s something you’ll be able to totally hang your hat on.” As for the type of structure that’s likely to be most popular, Jordon said anglers will have their pick. “The water color will depend on how much rain we get and which part of the river you’re fishing,” he said. “The water way up on the upper end could be a lot more stained than the lower end. But when you get up there, you’ll find plenty of backwater stuff, some side creeks, some marinas, some residential
areas with canals, big gigantic flats—a little bit of everything.” The lower end of the lake could appeal to dock fishing specialists. “The lower half of the lake—if not more than half—is pretty much wall-to-wall boat docks and seawalls,” Jordon said. “Whether you want to fish shallow shoreline cover or deep shoreline Bassmaster Elite Series angler and cover, there’s tons of it Classic competitor Bradley Roy caught available. You can find this giant largemouth during pre-pracseawalls that may have tice on Lake Conroe. 10 feet of water around them. “You’ll find flat banks and deep banks. It’s a really dynamic place—and since we’ll be in the spring spawning season, the person who finds not only where the fish are, but where they’re headed, is going to be the one who’s in the best position to win.” With the phases of the spawn playing a major role and Conroe’s reputation for producing big bass, there’s a good chance there will be some 30-pound sacks brought to weigh-ins. For more on last years Bassmaster Classic, go to
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FLY FISHING
WADE FISHING ESSENTIALS
W
ade fishing is one of the most rewarding ways to target shallow-water fish like bonefish or redfish. However, there is more to wade fishing than just walking on a white sand flat or beach and casting to fish. To make the wade fishing experience more enjoyable, here are a few tips to help you make longer casts, protect your feet, blend into your environment, stay safe and catch more fish! Stripping Basket There is nothing more frustrating than fishing from the beach and having your fly line wrap and tangle around your legs and feet especially after you have made a perfect cast to a school of stripers, a corbina or surf perch. The simplest way to solve this problem is to invest in a stripping basket. Made from a variety of materials and available in many styles, a stripping basket will assist you in managing your line. Removing your concern for loose line will allow you more time to concentrate on improving your casting and distance. A stripping basket is not limited to beach fishing, either. More and more anglers are also accepting the value of the stripping basket on boats. A taller free-standing cousin to the wearable basket allows you to keep your line off the deck and avoid its many potential hang-ups including boat cleats, shoe laces, coolers and the other obstructions on a boat’s deck. Wading Footwear There are hundreds of different types of practical shoes for fishing. Select a shoe with high ankle support, a firm and solid toe and stiff arch support. Since you’ll be wading in a variety of bottom conditions from soft mud, soft sand, hard sand and even reefs or oyster beds, it’s a good idea to get a shoe that has a thick sole to prevent punctures. Blend In Blend into your environment. Match your clothes to your
surroundings. If you are fishing the beach, wear neutral colors like tan, light green or even brown. When fishing the flats, a light blue shirt, and stone-colored shirts or pants are your best choice. Also don’t overlook camouflage outfits when stalking spooky fish in shallow water. There are plenty of camo patterns on today’s market, and aside from looking good, wearing camouflage allows you to blend into the environment. Don’t Get Lost One of the worst fishing nightmares is becoming lost or disoriented on the ocean, on the flats or in a marsh’s maze. A handheld GPS can prevent this terrifying situation. Also, if you find an outstanding area where the fishing is red-hot, you can mark it in your GPS and return to the exact spot whenever you choose. Most GPS units contain moon phase and tidal information, which are keys to successful saltwater fly fishing.
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B
ass anglers use lipless crankbaits in many circumstances and ways. I believe it is not used enough for reds, trout, tarpon and snook. In fact, a lipless crankbait is one of the most effective baits to catch fish in shallow water, and it’s definitively one of those I use often. And I’m not alone. When Louisiana’s famous Team Broussard was at the very top of their tournament career a few years ago, “Cajun” Phil and Capt. Kevin had many wins including the Redfish Cup and Team of the Year titles. The secret weapon they were hiding from media and competitors alike was a Flatt Shadd 50 snagless. That small, compact, lipless crankbait puts out vibrations that travel far through the water, catching the predator’s attention as if it was of a much larger bait. The quick, side-to-side motion also creates a lot of flash, adding visual attraction. When I was the Mepps spinner designer 20 years ago, I worked closely with scientists who had an understanding of the factors that attract predatory fish. The type of vibration and its volume were key. Both with inline spinners and lipless crankbaits, moving a significant amount of water is essential for creating signals that are much larger than many other types of baits. This is why baits with spinning blades and those that emit vibrations commonly catch large fish, even when the lures are small. Often, a predatory fish is first alerted to a potential meal by its lateral line, a natural radar. These small baits fool the fish into thinking it is chasing down much larger and more significant prey. How do you use a lipless crankbait best when you’re on the flats or casting close to the mangroves? If it is deep enough, you can cast and burn it or slow roll it to offer consistent action and cover lots of water as a search bait. This is the main way I use a lipless bait when targeting tarpon or large channel bass (red drum) in main inlets, estuaries and anywhere there is enough depth and preferably some current. But for the true, shallow inshore and backcountry fishing, I use them as I would a soft jerkbait rigged on a jig head. I twitch-twitch-pause and yo-yo it. The great thing with a vibrating bait is every time you pull on the rod, you can feel the bait reacting. Action can be constant when fish are aggressive, but for cold water or finicky fish, don’t hesitate to let the lure pause on the ground for a few seconds here and there. You might be surprised to find the majority of bites happen on the drop, or even when the lure is lying motionless. Fish can be so hungry for it that they swallow it in a snap, resulting more than you can imagine in hook sets deep within the fish’s mouth. If you haven’t thrown a small lipless crankbait around in the shallows, give it a try. You might be pleasantly surprised. Patrick Sebile is the owner and lure designer of Sebile Innovative Fishing (www.sebile.com).
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For tips and techniques on fishing with lipless crankbait, go to
CAMSALTWATER.COM
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2/14/17 1:45 PM
SOUTHEAST
How To Catch A
$10,000 Striped Bass By Capt. Clay Cunningham
F
or those who fish for striped bass in reservoirs, early spring awakens big fish fever. In case you haven’t heard, the Greater Atlanta Area edition of The Angler Magazine has placed a $10,000 bounty on a 50-pound striper caught from Georgia’s Lake Lanier. And the big-fish bite is on at this 59-square-mile impoundment of the Chattahoochee River north of Atlanta. With longer days and rising water temperatures, stripers are beginning to feel the urge to spawn. The next eight weeks are the peak of the year to catch the biggest striped bass in the lake. The last few years, several people have come very close to claiming the bounty. It is only a matter of time before it happens. The spawn increases a striper’s metabolism. They eat more frequently and are not as selective. This leads to big fish gobbling herring with hooks hanging from their heads. Fish will also be very shallow in water that warms faster and draws baitfish. This weeds out a lot of water an angler must search and reduces the potential for break-offs in Lanier’s deep timber. Two primary baits will be used to catch big stripers, live herring and gizzard shad. Both should be pulled shallow on a freeline. A freeline is nothing more than a line with a hook pulled behind the boat. The hook should always be matched to the size of the bait rather than the fish you hope to catch. Rig a 7 ½-foot Shakespeare medium light striper rod with 15-pound Trilene Big Game on a Penn Squall 20LC Linecounter Reel. Tie in an 80-pound Spro Power Swivel and a 5- to 8-foot leader of 15-pound Trilene 100% Fluorocarbon. Use a Gamakatsu 1/0 to 3/0 Octopus hook depending on the size of the herring. For gizzard shad, step it up to a 5/0 hook, and add a stinger rig to the mongo gizzards. Talk to the guys at local shops like Hammond’s and Oakwood Bait & Tackle about the stinger setup. It is a discussion in itself. The most productive area for trolling herring is over open water. Mid-lake is reliable, and if you can see the local landmark Browns Bridge, you are in a good spot. Pull baits about 1 mph on the trolling motor, and cover as much water as
possible. About the time you get distracted thinking nothing will happen, a rod will get hammered. Shallow flats are prime targets for pulling gizzards. Any shallow flat can hold big fish in spring. The 50-pounder you’re looking for will be hanging on the deep edge of the flat waiting for you to drag a gizzard off the drop. Soon as she sees the shad, a torpedo will explode under your bait. The bites are so ferocious you will think a bowling ball has fallen from the sky. Who will catch the 50-pound striper? I am curious to see. Capt. Clay Cunningham operates Catching Not Fishing Guide Service and is a full-time striper guide on Lake Lanier. Contact him at 770-630-2673 or at catchingnotfishing@yahoo.com. For more HUGE Striper catches, go to
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Gaining Confidence In A New Lure Is Key
By Michael Okruhlik • Photo Courtesy of My Coast Outdoors
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aining confidence in a new lure is key to having success fishing with it. Whether it is new to the market or just new to you, without confidence you might not tie it on or keep it on for long. Many times anglers tie on a new lure prior to the trip anticipating instant success only to be heartbroken when the fish didn’t show the same enthusiasm. Other times, we tie on the new lure when nothing else is working expecting a miracle. In reality, fish might not have been caught during these two scenarios simply because they were not there or they were not feeding. This could leave us with a bad impression of the product and cause us to toss it in the bottom of the tackle bag, where it will lie in darkness. Many years ago I bought a very popular slow-sinking lure that
Feathering a Baitcaster To Cast Farther By Tobin Strickland • Photo Courtesy of Troutsupport.com
T
he final step to casting farther is learning to “feather” the reel spool. Feathering the reel spool edge or the line on the spool is accomplished by using the thumb to ever so slightly brush the spool edge during the initial one-third of the cast. With the increased power being loaded into the cast now, you have to control the spool speed during at the beginning of the cast until downrange velocity is a little more constant. This takes practice, practice, practice. Start by not fully removing your thumb from the spool during a cast. Instead of fully removing the thumb off the spool at the beginning of the cast, just leave the thumb to barely brush the line or the spool edge as the line leaves the spool. I find feathering is more consistently accomplished on the edge of the spool. As you practice, your touch will be become lighter and more precise. You’ll begin to feel the point where the spool is running smoothly, and at that point in the cast you can completely remove the thumb from the spool and let the reel do all the work. Here on the flats, we’re using the Team Lews Lite and ProG to consistently make very long casts working structure such as potholes and edges of grass and oyster. Many times catching fish at the end of the cast and adding fish that weren’t reachable prior to using these tools Tobin Strickland (aka TroutSupport.com) is a Lew’s Field Staff member.
everyone raved about. I could not catch a fish on it if my life depended on it. Looking back, I fell into the two scenarios above and never gave it a fair shake, but that’s a story for another article. The same was true for topwaters in salt water. I had caught many bass on them, but I would only tie one on when I wasn’t catching anything in the salt. Then I decided that I was going to catch a speckled trout on a topwater plug or I was not going to catch one at all. To build my confidence and perfect my technique, I decided to only carry topwaters on my trips. I remember the day I gained that confidence. On a trip to Lake Calcasieu, La. with three friends, my persistence paid off. It was not a productive day overall, but it was a great day for me. I caught 3 ½-, 5-, and 6-pound trout plus a keeper redfish. Every time I would hook a fish, a few of my buddies would tie on a topwater, fish it for a while, and then switch back to a soft plastic. Between the three of them, they landed one red. Had I not kept the topwater on all day, I think it is safe to say I would not have had a productive day, but most of all, I still would not have gained confidence in the lure. I have found that when I decide to try a new lure, I make sure to give it a full and fair trial. I like to fish it through different scenarios and conditions to see where it might stand out from the rest of my tackle. While doing this, I like to fish with others and measure my production against theirs. I am not one to switch as soon as my buddy catches a fish, or three. I prefer to keep plugging away, trying to make them eat what I am offering. That is how I break in a new lure. Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Controlled Descent Lures and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com. For more about the lure that Okruhlik gained confidence with, go to
CAMOFFSHORE.CO
Two State Bowfishing Records Fall
T
wo new state record buffalo have been arrowed. One, a 57.7-pound bigmouth buffalo, was shot in Missouri by John Paul Morris, the son of Bass Pro founder Johnny Morris. The other, a 70.55-pound smallmouth buffalo, was shot by Alabama bowfisher Nicki Greene. Buffalo are the largest North American suckerfish. They are similar to carp and are popular with bowfishers because of their size and abundance within their native river systems. Bigmouth buffalo are filter feeders that strain zooplankton from the water. Smallmouth buffalo are bottom feeders that suck up algae and vegetation as well as small critters that live on the bottom. Their feeding habits make them difficult targets for traditional anglers, although they are said to put up a good fight when hooked. Greene was on a date with her boyfriend Adam Bearden when she arrowed her big buffalo. Their shared love of the sport is a big part of what brought them together. The fish has been officially recognized by the Bowfishing Association of America as the state record smallmouth buffalo. The official Alabama state record is pending the results of tissue samples, which will positively identify it as either a black buffalo or a smallmouth. Either way, it will be a state record. Morris shot his buffalo from a coal mine strip pit in Henry County Missouri. It had a length of 39 inches and a girth of 32.5 inches.
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Michigan Offers $1 Mil To Stop Asian Carp
If you are a current or former media advertising sales rep, you owe it to yourself to check out our franchise opportunities. For more information, call 888-800-9794 or email info@ coastalanglermagazine.com.
Photo by Jason Jenkins
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he Michigan Department of Natural Resources has put out a global call to the public, offering $1 million for the best proposal to stop invasive Asian carp from reaching the Great Lakes. These carp are the ones everyone knows from videos of big fish jumping in the air when startled by passing boats. They are fast-growing filter feeders that can reach weights up to 100 pounds, and they are highly prolific, producing as many as a million eggs. They have the potential to disrupt entire ecosystems, and have been called an immediate and grave biological threat to the Great Lakes. Currently, silver and bighead carp are backed up in Chicago waterways just 10 miles from Lake Michigan at three electric barriers. Despite these barriers and rotenone treatments, which kill all fish species in an area, environmental DNA testing suggests that some silver and bighead carp have made it past the barriers toward Lake Michigan. Researchers predict bighead and silver carp pose a significant threat to disrupt the food chain that supports the native fish of the Great Lakes, such as walleye, yellow perch and lake whitefish. Such a disruption may result in diminished recreational and commercial fishing opportunities. The Associated Press reports that the federal government recently approved $42 million to prevent these carp from reaching the Great Lakes. If you are the one with the million-dollar idea that will stop the scourge, submit proposals at www.michigan.gov.
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Media Sales Representatives wanted immediately for fishing magazine franchisee opportunity. Must have 2 to 5 years media sales experience. Dependable transporation, a love of the outdoors and a good solid work ethic. Type A’s welcome.
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MARCH l WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA
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MURPHY AREA MOUNTAIN LAKES Lake Hiwassee March Striper and Smallmouth Fishing
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By Shane Goebel
n like a lion, out like a lamb. This ole folklore is so true for the Western North Carolina Mountains. As early spring approaches and brings with it its hard to predict weather patterns, one thing is sure to be consistent, and that is that the fishing keeps getting better on Lake Hiwassee. For me, March has always been the kickoff to an awesome fishing season. With its warmer weather and longer days, it’s my favorite month for fishing. Currently, Lake Hiwassee is 38 feet below full pool. Water temperatures have been bouncing from the low to mid 50’s. Water clarity is clear in the main lake and just slightly stained in the backs of creeks. Striper fishing has been super out here lately. We’ve had a very successful January and February. Most of the stripers we are catching have been in the 10 to 15 pound range, and we’re averaging about 10 stripers a trip. This pattern should continue into the month of March and increase as the stripers start their pre-spawn. Continue the same techniques as the previous months, pull-
ing planer boards with live herring in the backs of creeks and around shallow, sloping banks. Make sure you keep your bait close to the surface and work close to the banks. I usually run my shad and bluebacks 15-25 feet behind my planer boards. As you pull boards, it’s always a good idea to work the banks by casting a Zara Spook or a Red Fin. As the sun comes up, turn your focus to fishing the mouths of creeks, as the stripers will follow bait to deeper water. With prespawn in mind, more and more stripers will start to stage in the mouths of creeks in March. Keep an eye on your electronics for schooling stripers, and pay attention to where the bait balls are. I guarantee you, if you find the bait, the stripers will be close by. The smallmouth and spotted bass bite has been extremely good. We are catching some very nice smallmouth and spots in the 4-5 lb. range and in large quantities. We are at least averaging 20 to 30 smallmouth and spotted bass a trip. Several largemouth in the 8 to 10 pound range have been caught as well. These spotted bass and
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smallmouth have been schooling up on points and shallow areas around the lake. Down-lining live bluebacks has been the best technique for catching a slew of these great bass in 15-25 feet of water. For the shallow water, early morning bite, keep a jerk bait, a Flex-It spoon, or a fluke on hand to work the banks and points. March will also kick off the start of a great walleye bite on this beautiful mountain lake. We really try to turn our focus on these great tasting fish. Lake Hiwassee walleye will start to make their way in to the rivers and creeks from the deeper water to stage in spawning areas. After this migration the walleye are typically hungry and will feed vigorously on more nontraditional baits. Even though these walleye are willing eaters, some fishing tactics will work better than others. With March weather in mind we usually see some good amounts of rain and an increase in water levels in the lake. This leads to muddier water conditions. Brighter color lures in yellow, orange, and red will tend to work more effi-
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ciently than live bait. Often times the more erratic movement of an artificial bait will cause the walleye to strike. Especially in calmer waters. Try using jointed Rapshads and lures with some good vibration. For the most part, we try to target these fish by slow trolling live minnows and blueback herring pulled behind planer boards. From smallmouth bass to hard fighting stripers, we have so many great opportunities to catch many species of fish on Hiwassee Lake. Give Big Ol’ Fish Guiding Service a call and let the area’s #1 rated guide service put you on some of Lake Hiwassee’s best trophy fish during the fishing trip of a lifetime. We also serve Lake Apalachia for huge lake trout, Lakes Nottely, Chatuge and Lake Blue Ridge. And, for all your live bait and tackle needs, check out Hughes General Store in Blairsville, GA. They carry everything you need for a successful day of fishing. Come fish with the PRO’S and get featured in The Angler Magazine. Go get your fish on and Good luck!
MURPHY AREA MOUNTAIN LAKES Lake Chatuge March Fishing Report By Darren Hughes
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ot much has changed out here on Lake Chatuge. We’ve had a pretty warm winter thus far which have kept our water temps a little warmer than usual. This has lead to some great winter fishing on Lake Chatuge this season. Currently, the water temps are in the mid 50’s. Water levels are still around 6 feet below full pool. Clarity is clear to stained in the creeks. The spotted bass bite has been really good for this time of year, and we’re seeing an awesome early morning to midday down line bite. Live blueback herring has been the key here. Top water has been decent and should pick up in the next few months. Look for these fish to be holding off points and ledges off the main channel. We’ve also seen some nice schools of bass on shallow flats throughout the lake.
Our hybrid bass bite has also been fantastic, with early morning being the best time to target these fish. Pulling planer boards and free-lining live bluebacks and shad have been the best techniques. We have also been catching some nice fish in the 10 to 13 pound range in the backs of creeks and off some sloping points. March fishing on Lake Chatuge is always exciting. Remember, live bait on this lake can be the difference between a successful day of fishing and a horrid one. For all of your bait and tackle needs, come visit us at Hughes General Store in Blairsville, GA--it’s the best place around for quality live blueback herring. We also carry ethanol-free gas and have some of the best hot, made-from-scratch biscuits in North GA. For guided fishing trips
on Lakes Chatuge, Apalachia, Hiwassee, or Nottely, or questions about the bait shop, call me, Darren Hughes, at Hughes General Store. And whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, give
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Chatuge a shot for some of the best spotted bass and hybrids in the area. Good luck, and get hooked! Darren Hughes is also co-owner of Big Ol’ Fish Guiding Service.
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MURPHY AREA MOUNTAIN LAKES Murphy Area Lakes March Fishing Forecast By Aaron Kephart
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ebruary has been an awesome month for Mountain Lakes Guide Service. While we have had a couple of post frontal trips where the fishing was a bit slower (and by slower I mean 18-20 fish days), we have still managed to average 30 fish a trip for the month. We have also been catching a pretty good variety of species, which always makes for an interesting day. As good as February has been, March is probably my favorite month of the year to fish, simply because it is so productive. The smallmouth fishing has been exceptional. Our average fish has been pushing 3 pounds, and we have been catching one in the 5 pound range basically every trip. The biggest so far this month was a 5.84 pound bruiser. While the fishing itself is good, the baits, tactics, and locations we have been using to catch them have varied greatly from day to day. Last Saturday, I did a trip where we caught 31, and all
of them were on the shallow sides of the points and partway back in the creeks. The very next day, I did a trip on the same lake, under similar conditions and temperatures, and the first school of smallmouth we found was in 46 feet of water on the main channel. You have to keep an open mind and be willing to hunt, but when you do find them,
you find a bunch (we have caught as many as 21 out of a single school). We have been catching fish on a wide variety of baits (umbrella rigs, hair jigs, vertical presentations, live bait, and jerkbaits, just to name a few). The spotted bass fishing has also been very good, with most fish coming on main river points, and some out of creek channel bends and secondary points. These guys will be sliding up and eating jerkbaits and swimbaits any day now. The largemouth fishing is a bit “hit or miss”. The warmer days seem to be better, especially after a big rain. Look for them in the creeks, up the rivers, and on the flats on warm days, in off colored water. The fishing for them will improve tremendously in the next couple of weeks. In fact, the fishing for smallmouth, largemouth, and spots should only get better in the near future. They have to prepare for the spawn, and that means they have to eat. While high pressure, super windy days, and cold
fronts can, and do occasionally, occur in March, the fish are still programmed to eat that time of year, nature dictates that they start moving shallower, and the weather tends to stabilize a bit. While I do still expect to catch quite a few fish out deep, especially early in the month, I will also start spending more and more time up shallow, and will begin relying more on reaction baits (jerkbaits, crankbaits, traps, spinnerbaits, etc.). We have also been picking up quite a few random surprises while we’ve been bass fishing the past months or so. We have intercepted a few big walleye on their way up the rivers. We have also been running into quite a few brown trout, with a couple of good ones in the mix. The biggest so far this month was a 26 incher. Last weekend, we found some jumbo yellow perch mixed in with the smallmouth. The crappie are also starting to move up and are congregating around brush and rockpiles in the creek channels. And we have had some A-rigs absolutely destroyed by stripers in the creeks while hunting for bass. As of this writing, I do still have a couple of March and April days left, although they are filling up fast. If you are interested in a trip with Murphy, North Carolina’s premier trophy smallmouth and spotted bass guide service, give me a call at 865-466-1345. You can also check us out at mtnlakesguideservice.com, or on facebook@mountainlakesguideservice. References are available, and we hope to hear from you soon!
Murphy North Carolina’s
premier trophy smallmouth and spotted bass guide service
Mountain Lakes Guide Service
Hiwassee - Apalachia - Chatuge Aaron Kephart 865-466-1345 mtnlakesguide@outlook.com
Crappie, Trophy Trout, Stripers, and more available 4 WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA
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The Flies of March By David Hulsey
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armer March winds usher in some of the sweetest first gifts of the year if you are a fly angler. All winter long we’ve been pulling big streamers and plowing furrows in the riverbeds with grossly over-weighted Stonefly and Caddis nymphs. Then, finally on the early days of the month we pull up to the river to find huge clouds of Black Caddis swarming upstream going God only knows where. In a rush we assemble our fly rod and of course missing a guide or two, tie on a black Elk Hair Caddis and proceed to flog the water for an hour without so much as a look from a trout! I’ve been there, done that. A few splashy rises are about and maybe the light bulb finally switches on; the fish are only interested in the emerging or the descending Brachycentrus Caddis. During these first cool days of March, a small flashy Black Soft Hackle about a size 16, swung and tantalizingly twitched down and across stream, can be a killer.
the water, the big Along about the size 12 and 14 flies middle of the are a sight for old month, gargantuan sore eyes. They are Quill Gordon Mayeasy pickings for flies start hatching the trout and which and showing up do not hesitate to on most freestone slurp down these streams in the steely gray beauties. Georgia Mountains The first Quill Gorand the forgotten don fly pattern that David and Becky Hulsey far west of North originated by TheoCarolina. After dore Gordon in the squinting all winter trying to see spo- famed Catskill Region of New York radic hatches of tiny Black Midges state is still probably the best imitaand itty bitty Blue Winged Olives on tion to fool early spring rising trout.
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Along about the end of March, if it’s warm, another big juicy bug, the March Brown Mayfly, starts showing up on our waterways. It’s a large beautiful creature and the imitations can be seen from afar. A lot of times, both the Quill Gordon and the March Brown hatches can overlap and run into April. When this happens, it can be truly magical. The March Brown is about a size 14, with a light brown or tan abdomen. This must be a good target for a trout because of the way a lightning fast rainbow will blast them. Again, the Catskill tie of this fly seems to be the most effective version to use at this time of year. If you want to get into some of this early season action check out our website at www.hulseyflyfishing.com to book a trip. Or if you want to have a chance at a true trophy rainbow or brown trout contact us at www.ncfga. net. With over two miles of the most fertile freestone stream in Georgia plan an early season outing and give the Flies of March a shot!
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SWAIN COUNTY/BRYSON CITY
March On The Spawning Grounds By Ronnie Parris
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ep, March is here and the spawning runs for a lot of species is underway in our mountain lakes. The walleye should already be showing up in the headwaters of the lake. Especially since it has been so warm. This was a magical time when I was a kid. The banks would be lined with anglers trying to catch a stringer full of walleye. No need for a boat at this time, as you can access the fish from the bank. On Fontana, the run starts on the Little Tennessee side of the lake and is followed on the Tuckaseegee side, in about three weeks. Although a big portion of the walleye run up the river, there are a lot of spawners that lay their eggs in the main body of the lake. The bad part of this scenario is when the fish are at the peak of their spawn, the lake is usually coming up a foot per day. TVA controls this but it would really help if they would bring the levels up earlier and hold the water at a stable level while
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the fish are spawning, but this does not seem to be a priority with them. As soon as the walleye are about through, the white bass start to show up. This can be the best time to get a kid hooked on fishing because the whites are very aggressive feeders and are usually not as picky about what baits they will hit. Also, they are line stretchers and will fight from the time their hooked till they are landed. The walleye and whites are great table fair, just remember to cut the white bass fillets in smaller pieces before cooking them as this releases oils and makes the fish taste milder. Crappie are feeding good at this time too, but tend to spawn more scattered out than the walleye and whites. Although the spots and smallmouth aren’t spawning in the headwaters they will be there at the same time to feed on the eggs and small fry that are hatching. Good lures to fish in the headwaters are tube jigs, rapalas, mister twisters, rooster tails, and flukes
By Tammy Parris
wenty-one students excitedly unloaded the school bus with rods in hand. They rushed to their favorite fishing spots at Bryson City Island Park on a sunny, but cold, February day. The Island is surrounded by the waters of the Tuckasegee River, which is the home to various trout species, plus all the species that run out of Fontana Lake. The bite was a little slow because it was a little cold. Even though the water was in the cool 40 degree range, it didn’t cool down the enthusiasm of the young Swainglers. Sophomore, Ben Franklin was able to trick his Brooke Trout with a single hook white rooster tail. Experienced angler, Conner Hyatt, a freshman, reeled in his Brown Trout on a single hook artificial green crawdad with black specks. All the fish caught 6 WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA
but at times, the fish will hit anything that resembles a minnow. Live minnows work very well at this time. If you plan to fish more for crappie, the smaller minnows work the best. Dress warm and layer up, as it is still cold in the mornings. If your gonna fish from the shore, don’t lug a lot of heavy tackle, as you will probably be moving up or down the shoreline in search of the best bite. These fish feed all day but the best bite usually comes the first two hours of daylight and the last two hours of daylight. Like I said before, I still remember the spring spawn from when I was a boy and my dad would take me. There’s no greater way to spend the evening after you get off work, than on the bank of the river with your child. Have fun and
stay safe. If you would like to go on a guided trip or just need some information on how the fish are biting and what there hitting, just give me a call! Ronnie Parris is the Owner and Head Guide of Smoky Mountain Outdoors Unlimited-Fontana Lake Fishing Guides, headquartered in Bryson City, North Caronina, heart of the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains.
Winter Update From The Fly Fishing Museum Of The Southern Appalachians IMPORTANT!!!!! The museum is seeking sponsors to partner and help fund the next major project as soon as possible! Our next important future project is construction of Phase II, the Aquariums, the Aquatic Species Science Center, the Mountain Stream Tank and some of the chilling equipment. Funding for presentation tanks, filtration systems, plumbing, and the labor portion is urgently needed. The sponsors of the completed aquarium building will be posted in perpetuity. There are sponsor positions for tanks for Muskie, White Bass, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Stillwater, Non-Native Fish, Forage Fish, Mountain Minnows, Native Sunfish, Redhorse Sucker, Threatened Species, or in other words $2,000 (100-gallon vertical tank) to $5000 (600-gallon), which correspond to the various live systems planned. We also are seeking $25,000 in donations for the Trout in the Classroom Regional Center.
were released back into the cold waters to catch another day. The anglers made great use of their 45 minutes of fishing time before heading back to school to finish the school day. We are aiming for an all-day trip by the end of the school year! The Swainglers welcome your words of encouragement and support! You can reach me by email at tparris@swainmail.org or 828-488- The Museum Hall of Fame selection process for 2017 inductions is underway. Nomination forms may be obtained at the museum or by 2152 ext. 5235.
contacting Alen Baker at alenandscottie@aol.com. The inductees will be announced in June and the luncheon to recognize these famers will be held at the Southwestern Community College - Swain Center in the August-September time frame, exact date to be announced soon.
The Museum Hall of Fame Categories are: Recreation: Examples are Angler; Fly Fishing Club; Amateur or Professional Guide; Amateur or Professional Instructor; Shop Owner/ Manager Crafts: Examples are Amateur or Professional Fly Tyer, Rod Builder, Rod Maker, Outdoor & Wildlife Artist, Illustrator, Woodcarver, Sculptor, Taxidermist Conservation: Examples are Volunteer or Professional Conservation Leader; Amateur or Professional Scientist Communications: Examples are Outdoor & Wildlife Photographer, Writer, Author, Playwright, Publisher, Director, Producer MARCH 2017
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5 Tips to Have a Great Spring Fly Fishing By Dale Collins
“Punxsutawney Phil” decided he wanted more winter! Of course, we all hope he is wrong this year. At this point, it seems like it will, at least, be a warm extension of winter. Regardless, it’s time to hone those skills, and shake off the rust for the Spring. Spring fly fishing in the Great Smokies is incredibly dynamic. No trout fishery is quite the same as this time of the year. Below are a few tips to ensure a great trip to the Southern Highlands. • Make sure you understand the weather. Many times the new weather apps for smart phones will indicate snow in the forecast as strong low pressure moves through the region. Often, the valleys will see snow showers all day but the snow never sticks. With that said, the very next day the high temperature may reach the 60s to low 70s. Spring is a weather rollercoaster, so be pre-
pared for everything mother na- • Expect the Crowds. ture has to throw at you. Layered We have all been in those sitclothing is best. uations where, “this guy walks right up beside me and starts • Above 3,000 feet the water fishing MY hole” or “This fella is still cold. just walked right through my The tailraces, such as the Tuck- hole” or “He caught my fish” and aseegee, will be fishing great. El- the inevitable “That drift boat evation 1,700 - 2,000 feet. Those just floated right though where daytime temps heating the water I was fishing”. Delayed Harvest up, get the fish very active, not to fishing is very fun, and many anglers know about it, therefore, it mention the stocking that takes will be crowded. Keep in mind place between Bryson City and that the river is public and no the Jackson County sections. But single person can posses a “spot” the Great Smoky Mountains Na- or “hole”. Everyone is there for tional Park is another story. Low the same reason you are. Have elevation creeks such as Nolan, fun with it! If you are not catchDeep Creek, Bradley’s Fork and ing anything but the guy 20 yards Straight Fork will see hatches away is...you need to humble kicking off all day. However, yourself and start talking to the the upper elevation creeks such person about what they are doing as Lynn Camp Prong, Keph- right. And if you are the person art Prong, Upper Oconoluftee, netting fish after fish...don’t be Upper Deep Creek or anything prideful. Help grow the sport above 3,000 feet will not be as and produce more informed and productive until later, warmer educated anglers. March days or from April into May.
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• Pick a Skill to Improve on. Delayed Harvest is a great time to focus your skills to improve on certain tactics. The competitive side of the sport has certainly grown interest in European Style Nymphing and the newest book from George Daniel Stripset gives fly fishers a few things to work on. Western North Carolina trout streams serve those tactics well. At least you can try some things that may be new and have some fun netting fish while you grow. Have Fun! The most important advice I could give you is a “no-brainer”. Just have fun! Give us a call or swing by the shop and we will do our best to help make sure that happens. Give Dale and the boys a call at Tuckaseegee Fly Shop 828-488-3333
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FONTANA LAKE An Argument For Stocking Stripers In Lake Fontana
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his month, I wanted to bring up a topic that has caused a lot of discussion in forums and articles, but one that will always be with us. It concerns the introduction of non-native fish into our lakes and streams. Here in Fontana, we have one of the most beautiful lakes anywhere in the world. Surrounded by mostly state and federal land it has the least development of almost any lake I have ever been on. There is a really large threadfin shad population that has historically fed masses of primarily walleye, white bass and smallmouth bass. Over forty years ago, when I first started fishing Fontana as a student at Western Carolina, the locals told me about the pike run, the white bass run, and lizard fishing for smallmouth. Springtime was when you fished mainly the rivers after the spawning runs, and you fished mainly with crawlers on the banks for pike (walleye) until they left the bank. As summer rolled on, you night-fished under Coleman lanterns and caught walleye, crappie, whites and catfish. When the baseball playoffs came on, the whites could be counted on to, once again, fill the rivers as the shad found refuge in the moving water upriver. Clocks could be set by the surfacing explosions of huge schools of whites smashing pods of shad, it was a sight to see and, like I said, as regular as clock work. Then a funny thing happened, the biologists planted a fresh water shrimp. I am not a biologist and don’t know the
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By Capt. James McManus
details, but I know the whites started staying deeper after that. There were also muskies planted, much to the chagrin of the crappie population. On several occasions, as I was pulling a crappie from the water, a large mottled back would glide just under my hooked fish as I lifted it out of the water. Then the bass tournament guys put in the spotted bass, and to top it off the illegally planted blueback herring migrated downstream from Glenville to start changing the forage base. Now, I don’t mind catching spots, as a guide, it’s a wonderful fish to catch, they eat good, fight hard, and are everywhere. If you are after smallies, then you are not so thrilled because they are pushing your buddies out of their homes, bedrooms, and away from the dinner table. If you are a walleye guy then you are even more hurt. You can look at a charted population registry from TVA that looks like a perfect x over the last 10-12 years; as the spots have increased, the walleye have decreased. When I first had a boat with a fishfinder, it was not unusual to find schools of shad in the summer a couple of hundred yards long, twenty to thirty yards deep and wide, with a similar sized school of walleye camped below, hardly ever more than 45 feet deep. Folks back then didn’t fish for walleye during the day except for throwing to the bank so the fish had months of relatively easy going, feeding at will, not having to chase shad, just move up a few feet, open your mouth, then
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resume your suspended hanging out. Electronics soon changed all that. The Fontana we have now is a totally different Fontana than it was forty years ago, for the abovementioned reasons. While there is still a huge threadfin population they are much more spread out, broken up by pods of aggressive spots. No one knows exactly what effect the bluebacks will have on Fontana as they become established, but one thing is very well documented, it will continue to increase the demise of the walleye population. Spots should benefit with the greater size of the bluebacks as a new forage base, known as an open water species, which you could also include as spot territory, which is also one more fish that likes that openness. Now, after all this info on changes because of introduced species, you may think I am totally against adding any more species to the mix, but that’s exactly what I am proposing. The facts on the ground are that number one, this is not the Fontana of forty years ago. The lake is not dominated by walleye and smallmouth as it was in the past. You only have to look to our south at Lanier to see what is coming. There, the bluebacks are well established, the threadfins are well established and they have one of the premier spot fisheries in the US. They also have some of the best striper fishing in the southeast. The lakes have many similar features: deep, clear, cold water, long river runs coming in, clay banks, rock cliffs, just a whole lot more boat traffic. I would like
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to see our state stock fingerling stripers into the Tuckaseegee below the Cullowhee dam, with some brood fish mixed in, and lets see if there can be a self sustaining population at Fontana. I know they will eat some of the trout in the lake (they love trout), but have miles of trout water to forage in upstream of the lake and I don’t know a soul who wouldn’t want to hook a 10-15 lb striper on a flyrod, if only for a momentary run into the backing. Fontana is changing, it has already changed, we need to let go of the idea that invasive species are all bad; they are, in fact, now the new reality. They are here to stay. The bluebacks will be more and more prevalent and that would be just fine with a new striper population. Hiwassee is now being stocked with stripers after a new state record striper was caught there. I don’t know why our state ignores Fontana like a “redheaded stepchild”, but they do. There is much to be gained by stocking stripers, they will hold down the blueback explosion that is coming which, by the way, will decimate the walleye population even more, just ask Glenville fishermen. Many folks want to striper fish. They are the most exciting freshwater fish alive. I am sad that Fontana has changed, there is nothing like a walleye filet on the table, but it has and we need to face the fact that more change is coming with the herring. Lets go ahead and get ready, open up new, exciting fisheries, let go of some of the old ideas, and keep Fontana the most wonderful of God’s gifts to us.
By: Dustin Stanberry
Barr’s Slumpbuster Streamer
Photo by Dustin Stanberry
Directions: Place the cone onto the hook with the concave area toward the hook point and place the hook securely in your vise. Start your thread just behind the bead and make a small thread dam to keep the bead from sliding backward. Continue to wrap your thread down the hook shank to about the hook bend, be sure to thoroughly cover the shank. Get a pine squirrel zonker strip and secure it at the hook bend, leaving about a hook shank’s length of material lying off the back of the hook. This will be the tail. After securing the tail (wing) of the fly, tie in your copper wire rib and flat braid body. Wrap the flat braid forward creating a slightly tapered body and secure about half the length of the cone behind the bead. Lay your zonker strip directly on top of the body and secure just in front of the body, do not trim the excess yet. We will use it for the body
of the fly. Now comes the tricky part, spiral wrap the copper wire through the zonker and try not to catch too many fibers while doing so. Secure the wire just in front of the zonker and trim away the excess. Now we can take the excess zonker and wrap it, palmer style, to just behind the conehead bead. Be sure to keep the fibers lying back toward the hook bend as you wrap forward and keep those wraps fairly tight. Sometimes I will add super glue to the area I am wrapping over just to lock things in place. Once you have met the conehead, you can secure the zonker and trim away the excess. The fly is now complete. If you wish, you can add one more additional step and place a small amount of dubbing just behind the bead and whip finish. (Tip: If you are having trouble controlling the zonker fibers, use a little bit of water to lay the fibers down and keep them out of the way.)
This is the way I tie Barr’s Slumpbuster Streamer. It can be tied in many different color configurations and on several hook sizes. I tend to keep this fly in the smaller streamer sizes like 8-12. If you notice that you are getting a lot of short strikes, the tail length can be trimmed on the water with a pair of scissors or snips. If the fish seem wise to the brass conehead, the color can be changed with a permanent marker as well. You can also tie the fly with different color conehead beads as well. It’s a fairly simple pattern to tie and is very effective. With spring, hopefully around the corner, we may see water levels begin to rise and fall and some of the bigger trout starting to move around and feed a bit more actively. With this in mind, having the streamer box stocked and handy is a great idea. This is a fly pattern that can easily be thrown with lighter line sizes if need be and
the tungsten conehead helps to get the fly down deep. It works great for stocked trout as well as educated fish. Tie up a few and give them a go. As always, best wishes and tight lines!
Dustin Stanberry is an instructor at Biltmore Fly Fishing and Sporting Clays located in Asheville, NC.
Hook: Tiemco #300, Size 10 Bead: Small Tungsten Conehead-Brass Thread: UNI-Thread 6/0, Camel Wing: Micro Pine Squirrel Zonker, Natural Rib: Medium Copper wire Under Body: Orvis Pearlescent Flat Braid, Pearl Body: Micro Pine Squirrel Zonker, Natural Dubbing: Senyo’s Laser Dubbing, Tan (This step is optional.) COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
MARCH 2017
WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA 9
French Broad Rivercamp: Fostering Young Watershed Stewards
E
By Dave Russell
nroll your kids in RiverCamp as RiverLink raises the next generation of river stewards. RiverLink is excited to announce its ninth summer of French Broad RiverCamp, a summer day camp where the French Broad River is the classroom. Rising 3rd – 8th grade campers will explore their watershed through activities like rafting, stream surveys, craft projects, and more! Our goal is for campers to end the week inspired and empowered to join the next generation of watershed stewards. Led by RiverLink Education Coordinator Micaela Hyams and a camp counselor, campers will have fun and engage in hands-on environmental education, river recreation, and service learning projects. Activities take place on land and water in Asheville and throughout the watershed in Buncombe, Madison, Transylvania and Henderson counties. Some activities are adapted from RiverLink’s Watershed Education Program offered
to K-12 students during the school year and align with the NC Standard Course of Study. The weekly camps run June 12-16 and 19-23 for rising third – fifth-graders, and June 26-30 and July 10-14 for rising fourth – eighth-graders. Camp begins at 9:00 each day and ends at 4:00. New this year, pre- and post-care can be available to assist working parents. For more information and to register, go to riverlink.org/summer-camp/. Camp registration is $225 for RiverLink members or $250 for nonmembers. Full scholarships are available! Payments can be made by credit card online, or by check. For more information, contact RiverLink Education Coordinator Micaela Hyams at (828) 252-8474, ext. 18 or micaela@riverlink.org.
Dave Russell is the Volunteer Services Manager at RiverLink, 828-252-8474, Ext. 11, or dave@riverlink.org. To find out more about RiverLink and its many programs championing Western North Carolina waterways, visit http://riverlink.org.
10 WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA
MARCH 2017
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The Legacy Of Love For The Outdoors By Aaron Motley
“Time to get outside!” That’s what a lot of outdoor enthusiasts think to themselves. Sometime we want that time to be by ourselves. Other times, if you can include your children and wife or husband, the adventure will be more memorable. I am a firm believer that if you expose your kids to hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, shooting sports, or camping, they are more likely to do
that hobby as an adult. The woods and streams can also offer therapy to one’s soul, and make you feel better overall. Last week, I had to do “stupid adult things” like cleaning gutters and getting a house appraised. LAME! However, I timed my tasks to be able to take my 8 month old son in a backpack and go fishing in Looking Glass Creek. We arrived at
the river at 12:15, where we gathered and put on our gear. By 12:45, we were in the river and fishing. To my delight, the parachute Adam’s and caddis dropper began producing strike in my first 10 casts. I was able to show my son and have him touch this small beautiful rainbow trout. After moving up the stream and fishing several holes while catching a few more fish, I thought, “he seems a bit quiet”. I took off the pack and looked at him…He was fast asleep. When he woke up from his nap, we left the river, got in our truck, and drove out by 2PM. A three hour adventure that was refreshing to both of us. Maybe you would rather ride a mountain bike with you kids, or hike two miles in from a trailhead. If that sounds
awesome, then load up your day pack, take a Tenkara rod, 6-12 flies, tippet, leader, floatant, and you are ready for a great time; as long as you bring enough water, snacks, diapers, toilet paper, ziplock bags, and other necessary gear to help everyone have a great time outside. Being prepared for your outing and managing your risks is the one challenge that everyone will have in order to achieve their individual comfort level. Go at your comfort level, have fun, and pass on the love for the outdoors to the next generation. Aaron, a graduate of Brevard College, is the day-to-day Operations Manager at the Waynesville location of Hunter Banks. His waterfowl hunting addiction supports his fly tying addiction. He has learned his fly-fishing craft from many mountain “fishy” people and pursues large trout, bass and musky on a daily basis. He teaches others to do the same. Get in touch with him through Hunter Banks.
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MARCH 2017
WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA 11
Why You Should Carry (And Use) A Landing Net By Ethan Hollifield
T
he early signs of Spring are already showing here in the Southern Appalachians. With the warming temperatures approaching, comes the droves of tourists who flock to our mountains to enjoy the vast amount of angling opportunities that are present here. With each passing year, however, it seems that the influx of combined local and tourist based angling pressure (along with several other environmental factors such as the drought this past summer) have led to a decline in wild trout populations as compared to years back. This has been a common concern among other guides all over Western North Carolina whom I’ve spoken to about the issue. Proper catch and release practices are needed, now more than ever, to help sustain healthy trout populations. One of the best tools in an angler’s arsenal, that can help keep their catch alive, is to use a landing net, which aids exponentially in a trout’s survival after being released. The whole process of unhooking, photographing, and other unneces-
12 WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA
sary handling of a fish can last upwards of 30 seconds to 3 minutes. In that time, anglers inadvertently suffocate a fish and remove the delicate slime layer that protects it from bacterial infections underwater. Removing the slime layer can be caused by dry handling the fish with your hands along with prolonged exposure to wind/ freezing temperatures. A net also allows for the fish to not have to be squeezed to death when an angler is attempting to remove the hook from a trout (or any fish). Holding a trout too firmly can cause internal bleeding and irreversible organ damage from which the fish cannot survive. Unhooking and photographing a fish can all be accomplished while the fish is fully submerged underwater, which allows the fish to recover from lactic acid build up in it’s body. Lactic acid buildup, caused from fighting or mishandling fish too long, can result in the fish swimming off after being released only to die because it can’t remove the toxins from its system. I carry two types of nets with me wherever I fish: a long- handled
MARCH 2017
net with a wide opening, and a short net. A longer guide net is great for situations where you know there is a chance for hooking into larger fish, while I save my shorter net for situations such as a small wild trout stream with smaller average fish lengths. Both of my nets are deep so that I can fully submerge a fish into the water and are made out of soft knotless webbing with a flat bottom to the net. It’s possible to write a whole book on proper catch and release practices that are applicable for today’s angler, and I know I haven’t even begun to scratch the surface in this article, but I hope it can serve as a good starting point. We, as anglers, are responsible for taking care of and being active in the process of conserving our wild fish populations here in Western North Carolina (and everywhere, for that matter).
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Educating yourself and others, and carrying a net may seem mundane and simple, but have a more lasting affect than most people realize. Ethan Hollifield is a native North Carolinian from Spruce Pine. While earning a degree in Parks and Natural Resource Management from NC State, he was a member of the threetime national championship-winning bass fishing team “BassPack”. Ethan currently guides for Stonefly Outfitters in Burnsville, North Carolina.
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Rod Actions for
Coastal Fishing By CAM Staff • Photo Courtesy of Matt Holder
B
roomstick. That’s what I started out coastal fishing with nearly 20 years ago. I had done quite well bass fishing with heavy-action rods growing up fishing freshwater lakes and ponds. When I began fishing saltwater bays, I was quite fond of my medium-heavy and heavy action broomsticks. Of course I was using them to ‘horse’ 8to 11-pound bass out of heavy cover and matted vegetation. Those actions are fine to start with in saltwater bays, but fishing for speckled trout and redfish in most bays doesn’t require bringing out the heavy artillery. In fact, going lighter and allowing today’s more precisely built fishing tools to do their job at the upper end of their limits is much more effective in catching more and bigger speckled trout, and they do fine on most slot and oversized reds up to almost 42 inches. Lately I have seen quite a few inquiries on the saltwater inshore boards asking “is this rod ok, or can I use that rod action for trout?” I thought I’d cover some rod actions that handle the bays, flats and marshes a little more like Craig Biggio handled a baseball bat. That guy was awesome in the field, didn’t swing a big bat but produced big results with consistency. That is what we are after. For saltwater inshore fishing with a casting rod and reel for speckled trout and redfish, the most used rod and action would be something in the realm of a 6’6” medium-power rod with a fast tip. It should be rated to throw lures weighing from 1/8 to 5/8-ounce. I regularly throw lures up to ¾-ounce, such as Super Spooks or other
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large topwater plugs, on this specific rod rating. Line ratings will fall generally between 8- to 15-pound test. Each rod maker will have a little different variation on this, but they’ll be close to this range. This rod will cast a large variety of saltwater inshore lures ranging from soft plastics on 1/16-ounce lead or bismuth jig heads all the way to 3/4 or 1-ounce topwaters. Overall, it will function best and cast the longest with lure weights that fall within its rated specification. For example, one can certainly cast a ¾-ounce MirrOlure Paul Brown slow sinking FatBoy or Mirrodine XL on a rod that’s rated for 1/8 to 5/8-ounce, but I find that it may not cast as far since it’s slightly over-loading the blank. A fast-action tip will help mitigate some of the distance loss (and we’re just splitting hairs here) but it’s going to get the job done and allow you to fish with that one rod all day with just about any lure in the box. I recently switched over to Lew’s Inshore rod series with blanks that are specifically made for saltwater inshore anglers. I’m really liking them.
2/14/17 5:02 PM
B.A.S.S. Calls Anti-Lead Edict Anti-Fishing
O
n the day before President Barack Obama left office, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) issued an edict to ban lead fishing tackle and ammunition from hundreds of thousands of acres of land and water managed by that agency. Executed without stakeholder input, the controversial action has sparked outrage from fishing and hunting communities. B.A.S.S. joined with state fisheries management agencies and the American Sportfishing Association (ASA) in calling on the new administration and FWS to put a hold on the order. “This 11th hour order, just hours before the new administration was to take office, was an obvious attempt to push through an order that is part of the previous administration’s environmental agenda without full consultation among all the stakeholders,” said B.A.S.S. Conservation Director Gene Gilliland. Scott Gudes, ASA’s vice president of government affairs, added, “The sportfishing industry views this unilateral policy to ban lead fishing tackle, which was developed without any input from the industry, other angling organizations and state fish and wildlife agencies, as a complete disregard for the economic and social impact it will have on anglers and the recreational fishing industry.” Signed by FWS Director Dan Ash, Order No. 219 requires “the use of nontoxic ammunition and fishing tackle to the fullest extent practicable for all activities on service lands, waters and facilities.” Fortunately, action was taken by the new Trump administration that could hinder its effectiveness. A memorandum issued from the White House to departments and agencies announced a freeze on implementing new regulations, pending review. Still, individual jurisdictions within FWS might choose to enforce the rule. For years, environmentalists have attempted to gain a complete ban on lead ammunition and fishing tackle by filing lawsuits. They’ve done so, Gilliland said, “despite the lack of a clear connection in many cases of negative population-level impacts on fish and wildlife.” Their arguments have been rejected by the courts. At the same time, selective bans have been
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implemented where research suggests a need for them, such as in some northern waters, where loons ingest lead shot. “In the limited instances where lead fishing tackle is demonstrated to harm local wildlife populations, the sportfishing industry supports actions to minimize or eliminate these impacts,” Gudes said. “However, unnecessary and sweeping bans such as this director’s order will do nothing to benefit wildlife populations and instead will penalize the nation’s 46 million anglers and hurt recreational fishing-dependent jobs.” If not rescinded, it also will damage the partnership between the federal agency and the states, according to Nick Wiley, president of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. “This action flies squarely in the face of a long and constructive tradition of states working in partnership with the service to effectively manage fish and wildlife resources,” he said. “The Association views this order as a breach of trust and deeply disappointing given that it was a complete surprise and there was no current dialogue or input from state fish and wildlife agencies prior to issuance. It does a disservice to hunters and anglers, the firearms and angling industries, and the many professionals on staff with the USFWS who desire a trusting and transparent relationship with their state partners.”
2/14/17 5:03 PM
I think just about every one of us has at some time had an adult fishing mentor, or even a family friend that offered to take us fishing. I know my life wouldn’t be the same without my Dad who started us off fishing; heck I was in diapers holding a Snoopy rod and 303. Later as we got old enough to handle fishing out of the boat, my dad would take us with numerous fishing guides, both inland and inshore saltwater fishing. Even if you don’t have children yourself, you can take part in expanding and growing as an angler by taking a kid fishing just once. Another option is to contact Big Brother/Big Sisters or any orphanage or foster kids and play it forward by getting to know a kid by taking them fishing. You never know, that one act of kindness and generosity could be a life-changing experience, and they may stick with it for their entire lives. I know that my life would be entirely different without hav-
Mississippi Angler
Lands Record Gar
D
on Henson, of Southaven, Miss., was hoping for a monster catfish when he went fishing in northern Mississippi’s Sardis Lake Spillway in September. What he caught instead was a huge longnose gar that was recently recognized by the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame as a world record. Longnose gar are the most widely spread of all the gar species. They inhabit fresh and brackish water systems across the eastern half of the United States. Henson caught his 48-pound, 1-ounce longnose gar drifting a shad in the current of the spillway. It measured 60 inches in length and took about 15 minutes to land. Mississippi Wildlife Fisheries and Parks certified the fish as a new state record, which easily beat out the old record of 40 pounds. The International Game Fish Association (IGFA) recognizes a slightly larger fish as its official all-tackle world record. According to IGFA lists, Townsend Miller caught a 50-pound longnose gar from the Trinity River in Texas way back in 1958. So what does one do with a 5-foot-long, nearly 50-pound gar? According to Mississippi’s Clarion-Ledger, Henson decided it was too big to hang on the wall. Instead he cut it into fillets, which he handed out to his friends.
For more Longnose Gar fishing, go to
ANGLERFRESHWATER.COM
ing been mentored by several outdoorsmen over my life like my dad, a couple of dad’s friends, Capt. Steve Hillman, Capt. Steve Soule, Capt. Chuck Uzzle and Capt. Ernest Cisneros as well as some others. Here are some pointers to simplify getting a kid started. Have your trip be more about giggling, laughing and telling stories than it is about catching a limit of fish. If the child’s age is less than 8 or if they have not done much fishing at all, then take them to a farm pond, stock tank, creek, canal or even a catfish tank so they will catch some fish. Perch (sunfish) are typically always ready to eat a cricket, corn-nibblet or piece of a hot dog on a small light-wire hook. Keep it simple with the rod and reel choice; you don’t have to run out to BAAD Marine Supply to buy a new rig or anything. A small 4 ½-footlong, light-action rod with a closed-face reel is a good starting point. Bobbers are fun to watch and take out the guesswork. Sometimes knowing what not to do is also important. This is not the time to take the kid out for a long grind with lures; that’s a good way to make it boring for a kid and have them want a video game. If a kid has been started correctly and he’s bored with farm ponds, then it’s time to get him on the boat looking for numbers of fish. Cherry pick your days and take him during the summer months using live bait for the first couple of times until he’s confident. As he grows, you can start to bring in the lures. Now this is the point to book a trip with a guide and allow them to be your partner in his mentoring process as well.
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MARCH 2017
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MARCH 2017
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Wilderness Trout
Fishing On The Jacks River, Ga. (An abbreviated excerpt from Flyfisher’s Guide To North Carolina & Georgia)
By Nick Carter
W
hile hiking the more than 6 nearly vertical miles out of the valley, my buddy stopped, sat on a rock and unlaced his hiking boots. Without saying a thing, he slung his new boots off the ridge into a hollow. “I ain’t walking in them anymore!” he grumbled. I suppose he was better off hiking in his felt-soled wading boots. It wasn’t until we arrived back at the truck that he showed off the angry red sores on his feet. That’s also where he discovered the 20 pounds of nice flat river rocks I had secreted in his pack before the hike out. That’s what he got for bringing a day-pack to a three-night pack-in fishing trip. I had carried all the camping gear and food all weekend. I’m sure he would have brained me with one of those rocks if he hadn’t been so tired. This was the aftermath of a pretty spectacular fishing expedition. Three of us had spent three days exploring and fishing the Jacks River in north Georgia’s Cohutta Wilderness Area. We had all caught fish, plenty of them. We also witnessed something that would excite any fly angler. After a late supper, three of us were kicked back
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around a campfire that was slowly dying from lack of attention in the damp river bottom. Full bellies and a full day on the river lead to lethargy. Conversation fizzled. The rush of the river and the drone of familiar night sounds lulled everyone into a comfortable sleepiness. Eyes fixated on smoldering red embers amplified the darkness around. It was from the darkness they came. With a shout, one buddy shot upright, slapping at the back of his neck. Headlamps clicked on. Smack! It stung when one slammed full-speed into my right cheek. Within minutes, the campsite was abuzz with huge black stoneflies. There were dozens of them, 2 inches and longer, with orange accents and long creepy legs. After the initial excitement and a determination that the bugs could not carry us away without an organized group effort, everyone went directly to their fly boxes. The giant stoneflies were gone the next morning, but the fish were still looking for them. All three of us caught trout on big red and black stonefly nymphs with double beads until all the flies were lost or unraveled. It was the standard Jacks River mixed bag of rainbow and brown trout from 5 inches up to 12 inches. We have caught a few fish significantly larger than that from the Jacks, but none of the huge browns the river is rumored to contain. It is well over 15 river miles between vehicle access points to the Jacks River on Cohutta WMA. It’s about as deep into the wilderness as one can get in the Southeast. Flyfisher’s Guide To North Carolina & Georgia is 218 pages of extensively researched information on the area’s best trout fishing. It includes more than 40 full-color maps, photos, driving directions, GPS coordinates and tips and tactics. It is available on wildadvpress.com, Amazon and at fly shops, and signed copies are available by contacting the author at nsc8957@gmail.com. For more trout fishing in Georgia, go to
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UNDER THE SEA
ear!
SPEARFISHING APPAREL
by blending into the reef, and some just want SHERI DAYE to look cool. Ladies, if you’re looking for he popularity of spearfishing in the “skins” for the summer U.S. has grown significantly, and it in attractive patterns, has spawned product innovation and improvements—not only with spearguns, check out Slipins. You might not blend into but with associated dive apparel. Believe it the reef, but you will look amazing! 2) Gloves: There are more sizes, or not, how you dress can play an important thicknesses and features now. I’ve been part of the hunt. Here are some examples: 1) Wetsuits: It’s important for a hunter to diving in water so cold that I lost feeling be comfortable in the water. If you are cold in my hands and couldn’t feel the trigger. and shivering, if your suit is rubbing the I should have sprung for a thicker pair of back of your legs, if it feels too tight in the gloves when I traveled to California. With the popularity of polespearing, chest—you will not perform as effectively. In this regard, new wetsuits with open-cell there’s a need for gloves that make it easy to technology and newer materials have been hold a loaded polespear, so the grip is made a godsend. They are softer, stretchier and of nitrile or latex while the rest of the gloves thinner, yet they keep you warmer than the (back of hand and wrists) are a dynema/ old materials. A good wetsuit should feel Kevlar composition. The all-Kevlar gloves like a second skin and should not let water are useful for handling fish or lobsters. It’s in anywhere. The following brands are not uncommon to get cut by gill rakers when available at your local dive shop: Yazbeck, dispatching bigger fish. Wearing solid gloves will give you confidence when handling fish. Mares, Riffe, Omer, Cressi and more. Most spearfishing wetsuit brands now Check out Neritic and Akona, among others. 3) Booties: With the advent of long fins have both a men’s and women’s cut, resulting in a better fit. The new stretchy materials for spearfishing, it’s become more important are forgiving enough to fit most bodies. for the fin-pocket/bootie combination to Still not happy with the fit? No worries; form a good fit. An ill-fitting fin will greatly there are several affordable custom wetsuit reduce efficiency in the water. As with gloves, manufacturers who will tailor one to your there’s a greater variety of choices, and it’s important to try them on with the foot measurements. Try Oceanos or Elios. Another recent development is the pocket you plan to wear. Next time you go spearfishing, make wide variety of camouflage patterns. Some hunters believe it allows them to be stealthier sure you are dressed for success!
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TIPS FROM A PRO
FRESHWATER THE THINGS WE WEAR
O
BRANDON LESTER
utdoor apparel isn’t as much fun to talk about as how to catch big bass, but it’s important for those of us who spend a lot of time on a boat. I’m not sponsored by any clothing companies or anything like that, but I do know what I like. Let’s start with hoodies. You just can’t beat a quality hoodie for chilly mornings and running down the lake. Most of my sponsors have sent me a hoodie or two, but I have to say my all-time favorite one is from Raymarine. There’s something about the texture of the hoodie. It’s manufactured by
cover up from the sun as well. They keep me cool and really make a difference in how much energy I have after a long day on the water. I also like MHX’s lightweight hat as well as a trucker hat I have from Phoenix Boats. A rain suit is key for me too. Mud Hole was nice enough to send me one from Gill that really works well. They make good stuff. Raymarine sent one made by Stormr, and it is my favorite for cold weather. Mercury provided me one from Simms that is really nice, and it has held
Sport-Tek and is just extremely comfortable. It looks good too. For those cold mornings, I really like to have on a beanie, too. I have accumulated several from Mercury, and I really like theirs. Mercury’s are good quality and don’t shrink. I’ve had others that got loose and feel like they were going to fly off. Everything has to be tight when running at 70-plus mph. Buff USA makes good beanies, as well, and several other cold weather products I like. Most of us think of Buff for sun protection, but they perform in the cold too. Speaking of sun protection, I will indeed have a UV Buff around my neck 95 percent of the time. I also wear their gloves, and honestly it feels a little strange to not fish with gloves on anymore. As younger anglers, we’ve heard stories and seen pictures of sun-damaged skin. Most of us heed the warnings. I wear MHX sun shirts to
up very well. You can never have too many rain suits. You never know when you’ll need a backup for either yourself or someone fishing with you. To complete the look and feel, I like to wear lightweight, comfortable fishing shorts from Mercury. You see a ton of anglers wearing the Mercury shorts, so it was obviously a brilliant marketing move for them to send them to us. It just feels like “game day” when I have them on. Did I mention all this stuff is wrinkle free. Even our jerseys are wrinkle-free. I usually stay in hotels, and I’m thankful to be able to pull my gear out of the suitcase or out of a boat compartment and have it look good. Valley Fashions does a good job with our jerseys. That’s enough about clothing. Next month we will get back to fishing. If you ever have any topics you would like me to cover, hit me up on Facebook or Instagram.
Get more tips from Lester at
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FISH & FISHING
PRIORITIES
A
MARK SOSIN
nglers tend to reverse priorities. Instead of focusing on fishing an artificial effectively, they worry more about choosing some magical fly or lure guaranteed to produce a spectacular catch simply by being in the water. Success seldom happens that way. If you have confidence in your choice and believe it will work, it probably will, provided your presentation and retrieve are effective. The best bait in the box will bomb unless it looks realistic and natural to your quarry. Fishing an artificial is a mental game. It’s easy to be distracted and simply cast and retrieve without any purpose or thought behind each presentation. Every cast should be made to correctly cover a specific segment of water and effectively put an offering in front of a fish. Simple things can make a difference. Here are a couple of examples. I watched an angler cast a swimming plug with a lip into the shallows, crank the reel handle four to six times so the plug dove downward along the dropoff, pause for a moment until the plug began to rise, and then continue the retrieve. If you stood next to him and simply retrieved the plug without pausing so it could rise, you couldn’t buy a strike. Another time, a friend who had been a guide was fishing with me. He kept getting strikes on his lure, while I became more frustrated with every cast, and we were using the same artificial. I watched his every move and tried to duplicate it to no avail. Finally, I asked him what he was doing that was different than my retrieve. As he worked his lure, he kept vibrating his hand. It was too subtle to see. Vibrating his wrist caused his lure to flash underwater just like a real baitfish. That made all the difference. Finding a school of breaking fish on the surface stirs the soul and telegraphs the imminent success to every fiber in your body. The key is to keep the boat away from the school while moving up ahead of it. Casts should be made in front of the school when possible or
at least close to it so that the retrieve follows the basic path of the school. Assuming the school is moving north, you want your retrieve to cover the northeast or northwest quadrant. It should move in the general direction of the main body of fish. Not very often will a school member chase a lure going in a direction opposite that of the main body of fish. Retrieving an artificial must make it appear to the fish that it is trying to escape. If the predator senses that the lure is moving toward it, you can bet it will spook. Every cast should be carefully calculated to make the lure look realistic. If a fish fails to strike, vary the retrieve. And, in cooler water, don’t overlook a slower retrieve. Those anglers who set the standards fishing artificial baits make every cast count. Follow their lead and you should begin to catch more and more fish on artificial lures.
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TACKLE CORNER:
GETTING A FRESH HANDLE ON SPINNING RODS By Mike Pehanich
T
he topic of spinning tackle can be a lightning rod among fishermen. Opinions on it vary greatly across the angling spectrum. Some rely on spinning tackle and, literally, can’t fish without it. Some hate it and can hardly broach discussion of this “down-side” style of fishing without a snide aside (“a birdsnest waiting to happen”) or epithet challenging the user’s manhood (“fairy wand”). In recent years, effective finesse techniques in the bass world have taken the fire out of the debate, and a sober “it’sjust-a-tool” mentality has cleared a place for spinning in the arsenals of most serious anglers. Design Disadvantage Outside the realm of partisan debate, however, spinning tackle has remained open to at least one legitimate complaint. The design of most spinning rods compels the fishermen to grip the rod across the reel seat and straddle the reel stem, leaving the angler’s hand little or no grip security and comfort. The design leads to particular disadvantage when fighting big fish or fishing in adverse weather conditions, from snowstorms and freezing cold to tropical humidity and lightning bolts. Fortunately, solutions have come to the fore. Here are three options to answer the spinning rod conundrum. Hooded Reel Seat With Polymer Grip: Hooded reel seats,
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such as those in Fuji’s VSS series, are designed for a grip shaped to extend over the reel seat. The design provides palm support—grip comfort and security at the palm interface—even with fingers straddling the spinning reel stem. Fuji, through its exclusive American distributor Anglers Resource, introduced a proprietary set of Winn grips (WVSS1615, WVS17), tailored to fit precisely with two of its newest and most popular spinning reel seats and its Perfect Fit Trim. This combination of grip and reel seat adds ergonomic benefit and puts more of the hand into contact with the non-slip Winn grip polymer. Aero Comfort Finish Reel Seat: American Tackle offers a spinning reel seat with a topside extension that delivers palm support. Like hooded reel seats, the design provides ergonomic benefit by supporting the palm, but it is a hood-like portion of the reel seat rather than grip material that reaches up to meet the palm. The “comfort finish” reduces the degree of hand slippage. Mummy wrap: West Coast saltwater anglers were the first to overwrap spinning rod handles with Winn Superior Rod Wrap, a “skin” of patented Winn polymer, known for its tackiness in adverse weather conditions. The tape-like material is backed with a forgiving adhesive that wraps easily around rod handles. The “mummy wrap” approach adds a continuous wrap from rod butt to foregrip with the reel already in place. The mummy wrap straddles the reel stem over both ends of the reel foot. Palm and fingers have complete contact with the non-slip polymer covering the entire handle. Check out the spinning rods in your arsenal, and see if one of these solutions can add comfort and effectiveness to your fishing. Rod wraps are simple solutions. Check with a custom rod builder or rod repairmen about retrofitting spinning rods with a new grip or reel seat.
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EAGLE MARINE TRIO ROD HOLDER Eagle Marine’s new Trio Rod Holder conveniently stores three rods while only utilizing one rod holder in your boat’s gunnel. This setup is ideal for kite fishing or anytime when multiple rods will be used. All aluminum construction is bright dipped anodized to ensure many years of protection from the harsh marine environment. Custom soft PVC Liners help create a secure fit into the tapered rod holders that feature a welded cross pin. The Trio Rod Holder fits standard gunnel-mount rod holders. It features three 8 ½-inch tapered and flared rod holders with custom fitted white PVC liners. These rod holders are ideal for kite fishing or any time an angler needs to add more rods to a spread. For more information on this and all of Eagle Marine’s fine products, see www.eagleproducts.us/ eagle-marine/.
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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 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
comp at 99 $28.83
LIMIT 6 - 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 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
JACKS IN AMERICA
LIMIT 800-423 purchase Offer g presente
SAV 65
ITEM 69779 67500 shown
$2999 99 7 $2 $44.99
SUPER COUPON
LIMIT 800-423 purchas Offer g presente
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 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
2/14/17 1:46 PM
75
OG
own
WITH
ITEM 63599/69052 shown 69111/62522/62573
SUPER COUPON
$
14999
comp at
$9999
$205.99
Customer Rating
12" SLIDING COMPOUND DOUBLE-BEVEL MITER SAW Customer Rating WITH LASER GUIDE
2000 WATT CONTINUOUS/ 4000 WATT PEAK POWER INVERTER
Customer Rating
ITEM 60432 69662 shown
ITEM 63091/63248 68998 shown
SUPER COUPON
$2999 SAVE $ $76
900 PEAK/700 RUNNING WATTS, 2 HP (63CC) 2 CYCLE GAS GENERATOR EPA/CARB
19999
$339
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 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SAVE $95
SUPER COUPON
$11999 $16999 $215.41 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 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
ITEM 46807/68975 69221/62123/63017 BAR 69222 shown
12" RATCHET CLAMP/SPREADER
WIRELESS SECURITY ALERT SYSTEM
3
t
$
$299
comp at
ITEM 93068 shown 69590/61910/62447 Customer Rating
SAVE 68%
SUPER COUPON
$ 99
1499 SUPER COUPON 99 comp at
$20.76
$31.46
LIMIT 6 - 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 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
SAVE $60
MAGNETIC TRAILER ALIGNMENT KIT Customer Rating
9
$ 99
comp at
$19.99
ITEM 69778
SUPER COUPON
$6
$
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 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
NAT_0317.indd 41
•
• No Gas Required
120 AMP FLUX WIRE WELDER
ITEM 61849/62719 Customer Rating 68887 shown
SUPER COUPON
99
750+ Stores Nationwide
$9
LIMIT 9 - 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 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
SAVE 65%
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 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
ITEM 63024 63025 shown
SUPER COUPON
$8999 $10999
99
comp at 99 $149.99
$8999
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 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SAVE NOW
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 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
3
SAVE 85%
3799 $106.34
SUPER COUPON
18 VOLT CORDLESS 3/8" DRILL/DRIVER WITH KEYLESS CHUCK SUPER COUPON
comp at
wn
ing rior ipt. be day.
SUPER COUPON
130 PIECE TOOL KIT WITH CASE
ITEM 69651 62868/62873 68239 shown
$13499
$
comp at
9
$ 99 $19.97
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 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
Blade sold separately.
• 1000 lb. capacity
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. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one FREE GIFT coupon per customer per day.
SAVE $204
ON
ON
$7
99
VALUE
SUPER COUPON
ITEM 61969/61970 69684 shown
62
ing rior ipt. be day.
SAVE $106
SAVE 59%
SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating
E
3
ITEM 60497/93888 shown 61899/62399/63095/63096 63098/63097
4
SUPER COUPON
E %
N
MOVER'S DOLLY
Customer Rating
$ 97
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 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
15
9
ANY PURCHASE
SUPER COUPON
3-1/2" SUPER BRIGHT NINE LED ALUMINUM FLASHLIGHT
KE
L T
10 FT. x 20 FT. PORTABLE CAR CANOPY
ITEM 63054/60728/69034/62858 shown
own
alling prior ceipt. be day.
FREE
SUPER COUPON ™
inal day.
SS RS
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
80 PIECE ROTARY TOOL KIT ITEM 97626 shown 68986/69451 63235/63292
$1699
Customer Rating
Includes one 18V NiCd battery and charger.
SAVE $ 65%
1999 $49 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 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
ITEM 69924 shown 62403/62862 Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
6" VARIABLE SPEED DUAL ACTION POLISHER SAVE $95
SUPER COUPON comp at SAVE $ 99 71% $24.15
9
$
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 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
SUPER COUPON
PORTABLE FISH FINDER ITEM 62675/94511 SAVE Customer Rating 46%
$
SUPER COUPON
$699
MULTI-USE TRANSFER PUMP
ITEM 62961/63144/61364 63591/66418 shown
SAVE 59%
$65
At Harbor Freight Tools, the “comp at” price means that the same 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 past 180 days. Prices advertised by others may vary by location. No other meaning of "comp at" should be implied. For more information, go to HarborFreight.com or see store associate.
HarborFreight.com • 800-423-2567 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
$149.99
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
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 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
comp at
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 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
3999 $3499
comp at
6999
$5499
Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
6
$499
$ 99 comp at $12.39
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 from original purchase with original receipt. last. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/17. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
purchases after2017 30 days MARCH Offer good while supplies
NATIONAL
41
2/14/17 1:46 PM 2/13/17 10:14 AM
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.
42
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.
NATIONAL
NAT_0317.indd 42
SZ_Q1Promo_WIP.indd 1
MARCH 2017
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
2/14/17 1:46 PM
12/4/16 1:46 PM
SPIDERWIRE® STEALTH™
EXTREMELY STRONG EXTREMELY CASTABLE
GO THE DISTANCE WITH STEALTH SMOOTH 8 CARRIER TIGHT-WEAVE BRAID WITH A SUPER SMOOTH, SUPER THIN COATING FOR QUIET AND EFFORTLESS CASTING
SPIDERWIRE.COM COMMON CVRS_0317.indd 3
2/13/17 11:38 AM
WHATEVER THE SEA THROWS AT YOU, STAND YOUR GROUND. BUILT FOR ALASKA, FIT FOR EVERYONE XTRATUF boots have been proven and tested in the unforgiving Alaskan seas. Now, that same toughness is available in the XTRATUF Performance Deck Boot. With a non-marking, slip-resistant Chevron outsole, these 100% waterproof boots are as tough as the elements.
Kryptek Pontus Kryptek Yeti
www.xtratuf.com © 2017 Honeywell International Inc.
COMMON CVRS_0317.indd 4
INTRODUCING THE NEW KRYPTEK ANKLE DECK BOOT
2/13/17 11:38 AM