SSFHMagazine March/April 2023

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VOLUSIA COUNTY

P.O. Box 290002

Port Orange, Fl. 32129

386-478-3725

Email sfandginc@yahoo.com

WRITERS:

Front Caption

Capt. Marty Goldy’s with Reel Harmony Fishing Charters with a nice mahi caught offshore Ponce Inlet.

Kathy with a nice redfish caught on bait from Donald’s Bait & Tackle in Port Orange.

CENTRAL SEMINOLE-ORANGE COUNTY

By

CAPTAIN LYNDA

HAWKINS

AHOY MARINE, INC. 407-323-8373 Tina and Steve said they caught about 4 pounds of shrimp recently down by the RR Bridge. Specks are on fire in Lakes Monroe and Jessup.

Steve does a great job and has been repairing boats and engines most of his life, let him make sure everything is in good running order on your boat.

WEST COAST CRYSTAL RIVER & DUNNELLON

By Captain Lynda Hawkins

ANGLER’S FAMILY RESORT 352-4892397 Alex reports fishing has been really good. Some nice crappie are showing up. Bass are being caught on both wild or domestic shiners. On the Withlacoochee River they are catching bass around the lay down trees or any structures.

By: Desiree’ Harbster and Capt Lynda Hawkins

Fishing Ponce Inlet/New Smyrna Beach

By: Capt. Bruno

2023 has already started off Great! The weather is being cooperative and the fish are ready to get Caught Up Right now we’re catching a lot of Sheephead Mangrove Snapper and weakfish. A few Reds and Black Drum are in the mix. Looking into the next 2 months we will be looking forward to seeing the water warm up which will bring the migratory species up the coast to our region of Florida. Starting from inshore we will be targeting Snook and Reds. Tarpon are still hanging around which is only going to get better for us and hopefully give our clients more opportunities to hook into and jump their first Silver King. Of course as Spring conditions improve we will be running the coastline. Sight fishing Tripletail and my personal favorite fish Cobia that are swimming around the Giant Manta Rays. Offshore we will be chasing Mahi, Sailfish, and Kingfish trolling and Bottom fishing for a variety of snappers, triggers, and jacks. Lots of Upgrades have been made to the 243cc Everglades. New 2023 Yamaha 300. RayMarine electronics. New stereo, Upholstery and of course a Ceramic wax detail by David with Epic Yacht Detailing. Caught Up is ready for You!!! Book a charter with Capt Bruno.

When your ready to catch some cobia and redfish like the photos above give Capt. Bruno with Caught Up Fishing Charters a call today!!

City of South Daytona Parks & Recreation has several upcoming events this Spring.

We hope you all can join us!

Egg Hunt | April 1st 9:45am | Reed Canal Park | Ages 10 and Under| Free Come meet the Bunny, hunt for eggs, check out the petting zoo, and grand prizes will be given for finding the golden eggs. The egg hunt begins promptly at 10:00am.

Mother’s Day Tea | April 29th 11am Piggotte Center | $15 per person

Join us for high tea on April 29th. Your ticket includes a selection of finger foods, petite desserts, hot tea and lemonade. A photo station will be available, and a take home gift will be provided. Call to reserve your spot!

Join us for one of our classes:

Cards & Games | Mondays & Wednesdays 11:00am-3:00pm | Piggotte Community Center | Free

Silver Sneakers | Tuesdays and Thursdays 11:00am | Piggotte Center

Tai Chi| Tuesdays | 6:15 | Piggotte Center $10 Weekly

Karate | Wednesdays | 6:30 | Piggotte Center | Weekly Fee

Palette & Brush Club | 1st and 3rd Thursdays | 1:00 | Piggotte Center

Cheerleading | Thursdays | 6:00 | Youth Activity Building | $10 Weekly

Sewing Group | Fridays | 10:00am12:00pm | Piggotte Community Center Free

Please visit our website and Facebook Page for updates on events and meetings. www.southdaytona.org and @City of South Daytona-Government

City of South Daytona Summer Soccer Registration Opens March 15th to April 28th.

This is a coed recreational league with an emphasis on developing the ideals of good sportsmanship, honesty, courage and a sense of belonging. Children new to the sport are welcome. Every child will be encouraged to play and have fun doing it! The cost is $85 with a $10 discount to South Daytona residents. To encourage kids to finish what they start; no refunds will be given. Jerseys and shorts are included in registration cost. Players will need to provide socks, cleats and shin guards. Practices & Games will be twice a week Monday-Friday at either 5:30pm or 6:30pm. Practices run May 8th-June 2nd. Games run June 5th to July 21st. Visit the Parks & Recreation page on the City’s website to register www. southdaytona.org. Please call the office if you have any problems (386) 322-3070.

Erica Johnson Leary with an impressive Georgia Buck.

Photo courtesy of Granada Pier Bait & Tackle.

Stephen Murphy with a snook caught off Ike’s Granada Pier.

Late Winter/Early Spring Fishing Report: (Ponce Inlet/Spruce Creek Region)

By: Captain Marty Goldys with Reel Harmony Fishing Charters

With any species of fish that you plan to target, it pays to understand their individual habits. How they feed, what they prey on, water temperatures they thrive in, and where they prefer to position themselves in their environment. Some call it, “thinking like a fish”, I call it “knowing your fish". A few tactics I prefer to exercise when targeting these species are listed below.

Capt.

Speckled Trout tend to hang out on the flats, in seagrass beds, or close to mangrove lines. They can also be found congregating in holes, trenches, or even in mudbank areas. One thing that remains a common denominator is what Speckled Trout prefer to feed on, in most cases a Live shrimp. While I’ve caught speckled trout on a live mullet, a live mud-minnow, and even on a live fiddler crab, if given the choice, I’d always utilize a Live shrimp on a popping cork (with a tiny circle hook) and drift it through some of the prevalent areas mentioned above. A natural presentation being key when targeting speckled trout. Sheepshead while difficult to target can be very rewarding once mastered. Most understand that Sheepshead love to feed on crustaceans (i.e. barnacles, clams, oysters, fiddler crabs, sand fleas, blue crab chunks, and even shrimp). Knowing this paired with the arrangement of their unique teeth, I’ve had the most luck utilizing a very small, very sharp J-hook on a knocker rig (aka Carolina rig with a short 8”-12” leader). Then, it becomes a game of finesse. Waiting for that perfect moment, mid-bite to set your J-hook is key. My preferred bait of choice is the fiddler crab given their hard exoskeleton making it more difficult to steal from my very tiny J-hook. Again, be patient as it may take a few baits before getting in the rhythm and catching these fish.

Black Drum love to seek out dead smelly baits. While Black Drum (aka Big Uglies) are capable of attacking a Live bait, it seems they prefer an easy target such as a dead shrimp, clam bellies, and even cut blue crab. Given Black Drum are know to feed off the bottom, I tend to utilize the Carolina Rig but with a larger/heavier duty circle hook to ensure my fish stays fastened (weight pending the water flow in the area you are fishing). Target Black drum near inlets, jetties, bridges, docks, and/or sea walls for the best result. Spotting Schools of Black drum can also be common during migration and spawning so always be prepared.

Flounder fishing never gets old. Such a treat to target and eat. You’ll quickly learn that patience is the key when flounder fishing. While flounder can be found under any dock, in any pass, or on any flat, they all tend to feed on their prey the same way in all of these areas. I have always had huge success using a jig head (weight pending the water flow in the area being fished). Baits such as shrimp, mud-minnows, or small finger mullet make excellent targets for hunting flounder. Essentially dragging your Live bait/jig head combination on the bottom will get you on the flounder and produce a bite. Once you get a flounder strike it is easy to identify as it feels as you’ve hooked a wet towel along the sea floor. It’s important to understand that flounder often regurgitate their prey after their initial strike. This is where ‘patience’ comes into play. Simply pause for an additional 6-8 seconds to allow this feeding flounder to fully ingest your Live bait/jig head arrangement. Always have a landing net nearby when targeting flounder as this fish is known for flipping off your hook once boat side.

If you would like to target one of the species mentioned give me a call for a Family

visit Instagram: @capt_harmony • Reelharmonyfishingcharters@gmail.com

Ike Leary Jr’s Dog Kimber Yellow Lab age 2 and Andy Leary’s Whiskey Chocolate Lab age 9 months retrieving pheasants at Roberts Ranch.

Dogs, especially retrievers, labs and spaniels, can help find and retrieve downed waterfowl, especially if the water is too deep for wading.

Ponce de Leon Inlet Tides March 2023

To calculate Mosquito Lagoon (Oak Hill) tides add 6 hours to Ponce Inlet Tides

Ponce De

Inlet South, FL - Mar 2023

Ponce de Leon Inlet Tides April 2023

To calculate Mosquito Lagoon (Oak Hill) tides add 6 hours to Ponce Inlet Tides

South Daytona KIDS

Fishing Tournament

•APRIL 15, 2023•9am-2pm

Location: Reed Canal Park

919 Reed Canal Rd, South Daytona

Presented By:

• Fishing contest for ages 3-16 years.

First 100 Kids get a chum bucket filled with goodies!

• 1st.-3rd. Place in each age group 3-5 yrs, 6-8 yrs, 9-12 yrs, 13-16 yrs.

•All children must be accompanied by an adult.

• Free Rods & Reels will also be given out children only (while supplies last!)

• Catch & Release from Reed Canal Park

• Education: Fish ID, Knot Tying, Casting Techniques, and much more!

• Sharks Up Close & Personal! A hands on experience with Eric Sander

• Mobile 3D Archery Range (You get to shoot bows & arrows)

• Breakfast snacks, drinks & lunch will be provided bring your equipment, chair, blanket etc...

• Pre-Registration is appreciated as the first 100 will get Chum Buckets.

• EVERYBODY IS A WINNER!!

Ace Enterprises, LLC, along with its owners and employees strive for customer satisfaction and they guarantee excellent workmanship. Ace Enterprises has extensive experience with scheduling and management of various projects, including small residential remodeling to million dollar restorations of highrise condominiums. They take great pride in all of their projects to run efficiently, and professionally.

North Causeway Marine New Smyrna’s Favorite Family Owned Marina. North Causeway Marine is one of Central Florida’s oldest family owned & operated marina. Their mission is to help you make the most of your time on the water! They are committed to providing fast, friendly service, honest answers and reasonable rates. They stand behind the quality of their work and have earned a solid reputation in the marine community over the years.

Their success has allowed them to continually expand their business to serve you even better. They offer a wide variety of services to keep your boat in tip-top shape. From routine maintenance and repairs to re-power, rigging, electronics, detailing and much more, they will have you back on the water in no time.

black drum

Blackwelder Pump & Irrigation has been locally owned and operated since 1996 in Volusia County. They service both commercial and residential water wells, pump systems and stations, water treatment equipment, irrigation and sprinkler systems, water features and fountains. If it moves water they service it.

Marine Custom Solutions they are mechanics, designers, engineers, carpenters, drafters, electricians and craftsmen with decades of marine design and manufacturing experience. The projects they undertake are all backed by decades of combined experience. They are highly motivated, certified and accredited individuals, who yearn to apply their skills and talents for anything you may envision. Let them make your dreams and visions come true.

Boat and Yacht Masters of Florida

They are Central Florida’s premier boat and yacht management company. They have extensive experience on sailing and power vessels and know what it takes to maintain and protect your investment with quality products, procedures and superior customer service.

We service both commercial and residential water wells, pump systems and stations, water treatment equipment, irrigation and sprinkler systems, water features and fountains.

C&C Pavers and More, LLC

Let us Pave the Way...

Brick, Marble and Travertine Pavers

Cultured Stone/Veneer Installation

Landscape Design/Installation

Tree/Palm Removal

Erosion Control

Retaining Walls and More...

South Daytona Kids Fishing Tournament

Entry Form and Rules • April 15, 2023 • 9am-2pm

Parent/Guardian Phone_______________________________________________________

Please Print

•All participants must follow rules, times and locations.

•All children must be accompanied by an adult.

•All anglers must follow state and federal rules and regulations.

•All fish must be caught on rod, reel and line.

•Each angler can only win one place.

•All entrants must have entry form filled out, and all entry forms must be signed by parent/guardian. Contact Desiree’ Harbster 386-478-3725 or fishandhuntday@gmail.com

Participants in this contest enter at their own risk. City of South Daytona, Southern States Fishn’ & Huntn’ Magazine it’s officials, members and employee’s shall not be liable for and hereby disclaim any and all legal liability for any and all losses or damages of any kind suffered by any participants, entrants, anglers, their guest and companions, which may occur during the event. Parent/Guardian

• Fishing contest for ages 3-16 years. First 100 Kids gets a chum bucket filled with goodies!

• Free Rods & Reels will also be given out children only (while supplies last!)

• All children must be accompany by an adult.

• Catch & Release from Reed Canal Park 919 Reed Canal Rd, South Daytona

• Education: Fish ID, Knot Tying, Casting Techniques, and much more!

• Sharks Up Close & Personal! A hands on experience with Eric Sander (Councilman of SD)

• Mobile 3D Archery Range by Gobbler’s Lodge (You get to shoot bows & arrows)

• Breakfast snacks, drinks & lunch will be provided bring your equipment, chair, blanket etc...

• Pre-Registration is appreciated drop off locations will be with the South Daytona Police Department located at 1672 S. Ridgewood Ave. South Daytona or Surplus Unlimited 613 W. International Speedway Blvd. Daytona Beach. They can also be mailed to

SSFHMagazine P.O. Box 290002 Port Orange, Fl. 32129

Tightline Anchor Inc. was founded in 2018 by friends and business partners, Thomas Langton and Greg Linton. They have since added another member to their team Farouk Dhanidina. The diverse team at Tightline is passionate about the outdoors and providing high performance and long-lasting anchoring tools to the small watercraft market. They have been growing alongside an explosive kayak fishing market but have found their 3.5lb K5 grapnel anchor meets the needs of other classes of watercraft owners including Jon Boats, Dinghies, Belly Boats, Jet Ski’s and Skiffs.

Tightline has begun to be recognized by kayak anglers that demand quality and invest in gear that makes their time on the water more efficient and most importantly, safer. An anchor for any vessel can be seen as the equivalent of brakes on your SUV and professionals understand that the right tool for the job is critical.

Tightline’s reputation has been forged in listening to customer feedback and implementing improvements in their anchor designs in what they describe as ANCHOR EVOLUTION. The current K5 is the result of 9 product iterations and hundreds of hours of field testing. Furthermore, Tightline is owned by the people customers talk to on the phone and through email correspondence, a rarity in today's marketplace.

Tightline stands behind their products and offers a lifetime warranty to the original owner ensuring the customer will have their anchor repaired or replaced in a timely manner. We understand the research and development team at Tightline is gearing up for a spring product launch that will enhance the fishing experience for those that frequent river locations. We’re excited to see Tightline continue to innovate and contribute to making time spent on the water safer and more fun!

For more information, please visit TIGHTLINEANCHOR. COM or call 281-881-7987

IF YOU DON’T HAVE A TIGHTLINE, YOU’RE NOT ANCHORED.

By: Capt Lynda Hawkins

Leading the charge on handling bull redfish

Everyone likes catching big fish. They put up a great fight, come with serious bragging rights, look super cool in a profile pic and, if harvested, they can feed lots of friends and family. Bull redfish are just one example of a popular saltwater species that have anglers chasing “the big one” for their next fish tale. While there is no doubt that monster reds have rightfully earned their place in the big leagues, any redfish angler worth their salt will tell you that an important part of any trip catching bull reds is the release.

Florida regulations require that redfish over 27 inches be released. The intent of this regulation is to protect larger fish (redfish don’t usually spawn until they get larger than 27 inches). Larger fish also produce higher quality and larger numbers of eggs and sperm.

This is why doing everything you can to help larger fish survive after release is so important. It’s also important to remember that just because a fish swims away doesn’t always mean it will survive. Taking steps to ensure that the fish is in good condition upon release means it has a better chance of surviving long-term to the next spawn. Use these tips to help your next bull red, or any other fish you release, survive to fight another day:

• Keep large fish in the water to reduce stress or injury to the fish.

• Use tackle that is large enough to bring the species you are targeting in quickly, reducing the chance of exhaustion.

• Always revive fish showing signs of exhaustion by allowing a consistent flow of water through the mouth and over the gills. Use a “figure eight motion” if you are fishing from a stationary location.

• Do not gaff a fish unless you intend to harvest it.

• Keep fingers out of the eyes and gills.

• Use a descending device or venting tool on fish with signs of barotrauma (bloated belly, stomach projecting from the mouth, protruding intestines, bulging eyes).

If you must remove fish from the water:

• Get them back in the water as soon as possible.

• Always hold them horizontally and support their weight with two hands.

• Use wet hands when handling, never a towel or other cloth that can remove their protective slime.

• Do not drag them over rocks, the gunnel of a boat, the side of a dock or pier, or any other rough surface.

Fishing from bridges or piers:

• Only bring fish onto the pier or bridge if you intend to harvest.

• Only target large fish from bridges or piers if you have specialized gear (pier nets or slings) to support their full body, bringing up large fish without proper gear or allowing them to freefall large distances can cause injury and increase mortality.

• If you cannot properly lift the fish, cut the line as close to the fish as possible before releasing it back into the water. (This may mean walking this fish to the shore if fishing from a pier.)

Other tips:

• Correctly using a dehooking tool can help you quickly and easily remove hooks.

• Use single circle hooks that are nonstainless steel, non-offset and barbless.

• Do not fish when large predatory fish or sharks are in the area. If they show up, move to another fishing location.

• Encourage other anglers to adopt these practices too. Learn more at MyFWC. com/FishHandling.

So next time you’re out on the water and catch a bull red or any other big fish for your next great fish tale, remember that landing is only half the battle and a successful release ensures more monsters for generations to come.

Have a question about marine fisheries regulations, improving recreational data, catch and release or more? We are here for you. Send your questions, photos and fishing tales to Saltwater@ MyFWC.com. Make sure your image meets our photo requirements and handling guidelines by visiting MyFWC. com/Marine and clicking on “Submit a Photograph.” Learn how to submit your catches and get rewarded through our Saltwater Angler Recognition Programs at CatchaFloridaMemory.com.

210 Walnut Street Welaka, Fl. 32193 386-467-2628

We are an authorized sales & service center for SUZUKI engines.

The Halifax Sport Fishing Club is excited to welcome George Poveromo as the guest speaker March 16th.

George is well-known as the producer and host of the immensely popular Salt Water Sportsman National Seminar Series, the nation's longest-running and most successful educational course on recreational marine fishing techniques. Now into its 35th consecutive year, the National Seminar Series is an institution in the salt water sport fishing community. The tour visits eight major cities annually, and has educated over 140,000 anglers since its inception in 1988. As of 2022, the National Seminar Series evolved into a 13-episode, nationally-televised series. Most notably, George is the producer and host of the immensely popular, nationallytelevised series George Poveromo’s World of Saltwater Fishing. George teaches viewers how to catch a wide variety of game fish, from exotic species like blue marlin and bonefish to regional favorites such as dolphin, wahoo, tuna, king mackerel, striped bass, grouper, snapper, bluefish, redfish, flounder and numerous others.

George is a life member of the Florida Coastal Conservation Association, serving as their Offshore Fishing Spokesperson. He’s also on the board of Fish Florida, a non-profit organization which helps people, especially children, learn about fishing and Florida’s environment via proceeds from the sale of the state’s specialty sailfish auto license plate. George is a South Florida native and University of Miami graduate. He makes his home in Parkland, Florida. Doors open at 6:30 PM, a brief business meeting at 7:00 PM, and the seminar at 7:30 PM at 3431 S. Ridgewood Avenue, Port Orange.

All seminars are free and open to the public. For more information on go to the H.S.F.C. web site, Facebook or contact Wil Evans, Programs Director at (386) 566-0601 or online at programs@ hsfc.com.

Melissa Holley cauht her first Crappie ever. Typically they go pond hopping and catch Largemouth or Tilapia. They had the opportunity to go over to Lake Jessup and experience a totally different type of fishing experience. They were mostly looking for Crappie or Largemouth and was using live minnows with light weight tackle.

Bikers Welcome come join the fun!

Governor Ron DeSantis’ Framework for Freedom Budget

Governor Ron DeSantis released the proposed Fiscal 2023-2024 Framework for Freedom Budget, solidifying his commitment to support the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) mission to protect Florida’s natural resources. The budget is evidence of Governor DeSantis’ continued commitment to ensuring Florida’s natural resources will be abundant for future generations to enjoy. Included in the Governor’s proposed Framework for Freedom Budget are high-priority conservation items including eradication and control of pythons and other nonnative fish and wildlife species, enhanced protections for Florida’s manatees and sea turtles, statewide seagrass restoration support, and support for law enforcement.

“Since day one, Governor DeSantis has made conservation one of his top priorities, and we are grateful for his continued support,” said FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto. “Because of his steadfast leadership, residents, visitors and future generations will enjoy Florida’s natural resources for years to come."

Budget highlights include:

$2.6 million in new funding for nonnative fish and wildlife eradication and control

$1.4 million for Burmese python population control and assessment

$16.9 million for 41 new law enforcement positions for patrol and investigation

$8.4 million for boating access and boating improvement projects

$11.1 million for habitat restoration initiatives

Approximately $750,000 for initiatives focused on maintaining Florida’s reputation as the Fishing Capital of the World

More than $900,000 for manatee population assessment and management enhancements

Over $750,000 for enhanced protections for Florida’s sea turtles

$600,000 for artificial reefs

$7.8 million for land management, acquisitions, and improvements

To learn more about the FWC and its programs, visit MyFWC.com.

WE FOUND THE PERFECT SPOT!

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD) are collaborating on a large-scale habitat restoration project on the St. Johns Water Management Area, also known as Stick Marsh/Farm 13 in Brevard and Indian River counties.

A drawdown will be conducted from February-August 2023, where water will be released and the low water levels will stimulate growth of aquatic plants.

FWC’s Aquatic Habitat Conservation and Restoration Section will plant native aquatic plants, bulrush and spatterdock, during the drawdown in the southern portion of the reservoir. These plants provide habitat for fish and wildlife, and benefit the recreational users of this resource. Established plants will also create natural wave-breaks, protecting habitat from future storms.

FWC and SJRWMD begin habitat enhancement project on St. Johns Water Management Area - Stick Marsh/Farm 13

SEMINOLE-ORANGE COUNTY

This drawdown will be the first ever conducted on Stick Marsh/Farm13, which became world renowned as a premier trophy bass fishery following impoundment in 1991. A Critical Wildlife Area is within the reservoir and provides nesting and roosting habitat for imperiled waterbirds, including roseate spoonbills and tricolored herons. The lower water levels created by the drawdown should benefit waterbirds by increasing foraging habitat and concentrating prey. Snail kites do not currently nest in the Stick Marsh but the results of this project could facilitate future kite nesting and foraging in this area. Water levels around the nesting islands are anticipated to be high enough to continue to prevent land predators.

To conduct a drawdown of the Stick Marsh/Farm 13, Three Forks Conservation Area to the north must also undergo a drawdown. Biologists will closely monitor the Three Forks Conservation Area for snail kite nesting. The St. Johns Water Management Area boat ramp at the Stick Marsh/Farm 13 and the Thomas O. Lawton Recreation Area boat ramp at Three Forks Conservation Area will remain accessible during this project. Please be aware that shallower water can create underwater hazards. Boaters should operate at slower speeds and proceed with caution.

By: Capt Lynda Hawkins

For more information about this project, contact FWC biologists, Trevor Knight at 352-732-1225 or Joel Andreas at 321-624-9468.

to www.myfwc.com and search Florida Fishing Pier Finder.

DID YOU KNOW!! The new Florida Fishing Pier Finder is an interactive map tool that allows anglers to find publicly accessible fishing piers, jetties, fishing-specific bridges and fishing fingers around the state. It is a detailed map and is best viewed using computers or tablets with larger screens. Go

Roy’s Surf Fishing Guide Service

For the 3rd Year we will be able to have the SURF FISHING CHALLENGE on March 31st- April 1st, 2023 at Lost Lagoon Wings and Grill in the back yard. Friday March 31st Starting at 4pm is start of Sign up in Person $40.00 Cash, Fishbites will be doing the Kid’s Division and it will cost $25.00. Angler’s Meeting will start at 6pm. Everyone will be Looking for Pompano, Bluefish and Whiting.

First place for each Fish is $500.00 in Adults. Fishbites will giving nice Prizes for Kid’s

Saturday April 1st, 2023 Fishermen will be lining area beaches from 206 Crescent Beach to Sebastian Inlet. Sponsor’s will Open at 12 noon and will be selling lots of different items. We will start Raffles at 3pm till gone. Weight-In is 2pm to 4pm, music great food and full outside bar. Free Admission to join if not Fishing. Come learn and watch from other fishermen.

SPECIAL GUEST COULD DROP IN. All money from Raffles will be split with 2 groups that take kids Fishing that can’t afford it.

Roy’s Surf Fishing Guide Service is a local life long Surf Fisherman born in Daytona Beach. Check out both websites: Surffishingchallenge.com Royssurffishing.com

MARION-CITRUS COUNTY

Check out the 2023 Spring Turkey Hunt Guide Hunters across the state are counting the days until spring turkey season opens. On lands outside of the WMA system, Florida’s 2023 spring wild turkey season runs:

March 4 - April 9 south of State Road 70

March 18 - April 23 north of State Road 70

To help you get ready for spring turkey season, we encourage you to check out the FWC's 2023 Spring Turkey Hunt Guide. In addition to regulations information (including the new requirement to log and report harvested turkeys), the 2023 guide provides a list of wildlife management areas you can hunt without a quota permit, though you'll still need a hunting license, turkey permit, and a management area permit unless exempt. Before hunting a WMA, carefully review the area’s regulations brochure as season dates, bag limits and other rules may vary.

By: Capt Lynda Hawkins

If you’re planning to hunt this spring, be aware if you harvest a wild turkey, you must log and report it. This new rule went into effect July 1, 2022, and applies to all seasons that allow the take of wild turkeys.

For more info go to : www.myfwc.com

Resort! Extremely nice 1 bedroom with additional sleeping/storage in the loft. Has a galley kitchen with full size appliances, attached screened porch and a large deck with a beautiful view of the lake. Spacious pull thru lot with plenty of room for all your toys.

$115,000

Vacant fenced lot with 2 small storage buildings. Ideal for that weekend cabin or place a mobile home on the property. Has lake access through club membership, (75.00/year). $17,000

Large tiered lot with spacious storage building located in Salt Springs Resort. The resort offers a club house, 2 pools, tennis court, bath house, dog park, dock and boat ramp to Little Lake Kerr. A wonderful place to spend weekends or a lifetime! $52,000

Quaint 2 bedroom home with screened enclosed pool. Amenities include stone fireplace, eat-in kitchen with oak cabinetry, stainless appliances and laminate flooring throughout home. There is a dryer/ washer hookup in the half bath. The pool is accessed through the patio area. Lake access to Little Lake Kerr through subdivision community lot which has a club house, boat ramp and swim area.

$145,000

Cedar Creek Park Model in Salt Springs

By: Capt Lynda Hawkins

BASS N GAL GUIDE SERVICE

352-267-0062 Bass are being caught on the Harris chain using gitzits and floating worms. A slow falling sinking weightless worm or a chrome blue or green Rat-L-Trap reeled in as slowly as possible, are both working quite well. For the fishing trip you’ve dreamed of give me a call @ 352267-0062.

Gary at BROOKER BAIT & TACKLE 352-460-0695 said on the Harris Chain the specks are hitting. Lake Apopka is hot right now but is getting some heavy pressure. Crappie are a little hard to find but they are catching quite a few and larger ones. Live bait and jigs off the grass lines are both working well.

During the recent Toyota Series Bass Tournament, Kenny Stevenson won with a three day total of 73 pounds. Trevor Fitsgerald came in 18th place out of 260 boats. The Bass college and High School did pretty good as well. Brookers has a well stocked shop and expert knowledge on both freshwater and saltwater.

Welcome to John of ORLANDO BOAT SALES in Fern Park 407-253-7111. He has beautiful pontoon boats. Stop in and see his large selection.

KEL’S ROD & REEL SERVICE in Casselberry 407-834-3008, is a warranty center for Shimano, Penn, Minnkota and Motorguide. They are open Tues.-Fri 9-5 and Sat 9-3 (closed Sun. & Mon.)

David at DAVIDS TRAILERS 407-293-2922 has one of the largest inventories of trailer parts in Central Florida with over 200 trailers in stock. He is located on West Colonial Drive across from the Orange County fairground and has been at the same location since 1979. Stop in and visit with him and his friendly, knowledgeable staff.

Lakeside Bait & Tackle

352-742-3336

Mark & Heidi Bass, Owners

Located on Lake Eustis

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Lakeside Guide Service with Captain Mark

352-255-9706

All Tackle Included

1000 W. Burleigh Blvd. Tavares, Fl.

BROOKER BAIT & TACKLE

Owners Bill & Natalie Brooker

1351 A. W. North Blvd.

Leesburg, Fl. 34748

352-460-0695

BrookerBait@gmail.com

Astor/Pierson

Citgo

Cheapest Gas in Town!

LIVE BAIT & TACKLE

Wine-Beer-Cigs-Soda-Ice

Snacks-Groceries-Refill Propane

Hot Pizza & Chicken Wings Open 7 Days

Sun-Thur 6am-10pm & Fri-Sat 6am-11pm

1380 W. St Rd. 40, Pierson

386-749-0180

PONTOON SALOON located on Lake Eustis in Tavares. They are next door to Lakeside Bait & Tackle and you can get there from land or from water. They have a nice dock where you can tie up your boat. Stop in and say “Hi” and have a friendly drink or a nice meal.

Heidi and her dad of LAKESIDE BAIT & TACKLE

352-742-3336 tells us specks are being caught in Little Lake Harris, big Lake Harris and Lake Dora right now using minnows and jigs. Both small and large minnows are working well. Bass are picking up pretty good with several 5 and 6 pounders being caught. Bass are being caught flipping pads, out of the grass and from under docks. Dark colored plastics and shiners are working well. Mark caught a 6 pound catfish recently while fishing for bass with shiners.

Jim from FISH CAMP ON LAKE EUSTIS

352-742-4400 tells us they are now open from 11 to 8 daily and 11 to 9 on Fri. and Sat. and have live music on Saturday from 1 to 4. They are located ¼ mile East of Dora Canal right on Lake Eustis next door to Lakeside Bait & Tackle and are easy to find from the water or the highway.

BASS CAPITAL By Captain Lynda Hawkins

According to Lorraine at BASS WORLD LODGE 386-467-2267 Mark and Blonde are catching bass using June Bug blue worms. Crappie are being caught out of Crescent Lake. Jim is catching lots of catfish. LaFont and Randall are catching specks using minnows. Bass World Lodge has been in the fishing business over 50 years and has had fishermen from all over the world who have experienced the fun of an old fashioned down to earth fish camp. Their cabins range in size from a one bedroom cottage up to a 5 bedroom (10 beds) dorm room. They also have family sized 2 and 3 bedrooms.

GEORGETOWN MARINA & LODGE 386-467-2002 Nolan tells us they are catching tons of bass using wild shiners. Two of their customers, Jack and Chris of Kentucky caught an 11 pound 3 oz. bass. This was released. Harley caught a 8 pounder and two that were over 5. Some nice specks are being caught both jigging and on minnows. Captain Don Weaver took out a few customers, Mike and Marsha caught two over 6 pounds using wild shiners.

Boat of the Month

Finn Addict Charter Fishing

Captain Chris Endicott

386-547-4053

For this Boat of the Month we step aboard Finn Addict Charter Fishing, one of the area's longest running captains & charters. Captain Chris Endicott is as multifaceted as they come and his long & seasoned history in the fishing industry has taken him all over the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, acquiring a wealth of knowledge along the way. Originally a charter Captain turned commercial fisherman, he returned to his first love of charter fishing and has been living his dream ever since.

You'll certainly enjoy your day on this 36 FT Yellowfin Center Console that was completely refitted in 2020, powered by twin 350 HP Yamahas. Complete with a wide T-top for your much needed breaks in the shade, a toilet for your convenience, and plenty of cushioned seating to go around. Cruising along at 35 knots she'll get you there in no time and her down & center riggers will ensure you land the areas most sought after catches.

Chris Endicott has spent over 30 years as a Captain, fishing from the Carolina's all the way to South America. His experience in both commercial and charter fishing means he is not only well versed in putting meat on the deck but experienced in a wide range of big game fishing as well. Returning to charter fishing was an easy choice for him- he enjoys all aspects of being a charter Captain and he never tires of the reactions. From watching a newbie catch their first saltwater fish to the die hard 'old salts' that board his vessel with set species in mind, he's always ready to go!

Captain Chris says his favorite time of year to fish is most definitely Springwhen pelagics are on the move. Being situated 30 miles west of the Gulf Stream always has its perks & the area is well known for its Mahi, Tuna, Sailfish, Wahoo & Blue Marlin fishing. You are sure to have an epic day with his dedication to providing each and every angler with the fishing adventure of a lifetime! Trips aboard Finn Addict Charter Fishing include: 5 HR / 6 HR / 8 HR Offshore trips and an 11 HR Deep Water Trip.

Westwind Witches

By: Shelby Zona

386-341-9278 • szonazona@gmail.com

1 oz. Carolina Chrome Head-$12 Out Of Stock with Mylar $13

1 oz. Assorted Painted Head-$12 with Mylar $13

3/4 oz. White Head-$8 with Mylar-$9

1/2 oz. Red or White Head-$7 with Mylar $8

Color Options

Shine White-Matte White-Crystalline Green Green-Hot Pink-Purple-Black-Blue-Red

Hand made with your choice of custom colors and heads.

3rd. Generation Fisherwoman Order yours today!!

Make sure you get them in time for the tournament/fishing season.

Mention this ad and receive $100 off Hog, Deer & Turkey Hunts!

DEER HUNTING SEASON

August 1st-January 1st

3 DAYS HUNTS $1,295.00

5 DAY HUNTS $1,995.00

Meals & Lodging Included with all pricing!

We have the longest deer season in the US August 15th-January 1st, with weapon of choice for the entire season. The velvet hunts last through Labor Day weekend and the rut is throughout the months of October and November. We hunt seven days a week and allow two bucks per day, only with one small (under 12" wide) per hunter, per season.

We have open areas where first timers can take a buck, Long Managed Trophy Areas where bucks must be a minimum of 15" outside spread. Then we have our special Big Trophy Area, where the bucks have been on strict management for only mature bucks for the past 13 seasons, the bucks there have to be 16" outside spread of 110 Boone and Crockett Score. That area will be for very serious Trophy Hunters only.

Spring Turkey Season March 20th-May 5th

3 Days $1,395

Meals & Lodging Included with all pricing!

Turkey Season opens on March 20th each year and runs through May 5th. We have 5,500 of prime turkey woods with a mixture of river bottoms, pine ridges and lots of food plots planted with chuffas, the turkey’s favorite. Our seasoned guides are very familiar with our properties and are very personable and experienced. While on your turkey hunt , if you would like to sit for a wild hog in the afternoon, you are allowed to take one hog during the three day hunt for no extra charge. We have lots of them and some really big ones.

Wild Hog Hunts Year Round

3 Days $1,095

Meals & Lodging Included with all pricing!

We can hunt hogs year round and some of our most productive hunts this past year took place in May, June and July. We have plenty of land now with hogs to be able to hunt large groups, up to 10. We can even accommodate bow groups that large. Hogs are very smart animals, don’t come thinking they are just dumb farm animals. This is a fun hunt for all who just do not want to quit hunting after their deer season closes.

The finest deer, hog, and turkey hunting in the low-country of South Carolina!

Road Ehrhardt, South Carolina

April 20-23, 2023

Thousands of dollars and great prizes up for grabs for the biggest Mahi, Wahoo and Kingfish!

Captains Meeting

Thursday April 20 6:30pm at HSFC

Fishing Days

April 21, 22 or 23 Declare one day!

Tournament Awards Party