Water LIFE April 2010

W a t e r LIFE

FREE!

C Ch ha ar rllo ot tt te e H Ha ar rb bo or r a an nd d L Le em mo on n B Ba ay y Keeping Boaters & Fishermen Informed Since 1997

P r o d u c e r s o f t h e K I D S C U P To u r n a m e n t

April 2010

Good Diving Good Eating!

Page 13

Fishing Reports page 21-22

East Side Aerials page 10

7th annual

Kids Cup NEXT MONTH! Page 13

w w w. W a t e r L i f e M a g a z i n e . c o m

Always FREE!

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

Page 2

April

2010

DIRECT 941-235-5648 TOLL FREE 877-218-6552

GREAT INVESTMENT – Deep Creek Pines 2/2 condo. Everything is new, even the drywall and duct work. All floors are tiled incuding the lanai. This condo is neat and clean and shows like new. Community pool and golf community. Priced to sell View this one before it is gone! $49,900 Call Ellen McCarthy 235-5648

SHADOW MOSS COMMUNITY – Club house and pool. 2/2/2 with 1,210 sq. ft. on freshwater canal. Home features large combo living and dining room, split bedrooms, large kitchen with nook w/sliders to back patio. Lanai off living room and Master Bedroom.

Walk-in closet.

Hurricane shutters, new roof, water heater, hurricane code garage door w/opener.

A/C new in 2009. 7 ceiling fans. $99,900.

Call Ellen McCarthy 235-5648

ROOM TO SPREAD OUT – This lovely 1,842 sf, 3/2/2 home is set on 2 lots with option to purchase 3rd lot. Open floor plan, large lanai & caged patio, parquet flooring, carpet & tile. Inside laundry, oversized Master Bedroom. Quiet neighborhood. Call for a viewing today. $149,900 Call Ellen McCarthy 235-5648

NEW YORK SECTION – NOT A SHORT SALE. This 1,814 sq. ft. home has been completely renovated in the past 3 years with new roof, soffit, fascia, gutters, hurricane shutters, A /C duct work, electric and plumbing fixtures in baths, flooring, cabinets and tops, appliances, fans and light fixtures, etc. etc.

Two split-plan master suites and baths, inside laundry room, breakfast nook and bar and large back yard with room for a pool.. $89.900 Call Ellen McCarthy 235-5648

DEEP CREEK LAKE VIEW CONDO – 2/2 ground floor end unit is perfect for permanent, investor or seasonal owners.

Features of this 876 sq. ft. condo include 2002 A/C, storm shutters, updated appliances, smoke detectors, 5 ceiling fans, tiled lanai and open floor plan. Enjoy Lakeshore Complexʼs heated pool and club house amenities while just minutes from shopping and restaurants. $64,900.

Call Ellen McCarthy 235-5648

SHORT SALE! – Wonderful 3/2/2, 1,554 sf home built in 2007 with split bedroom plan, carpet & tile, plant shelves, cathedral ceiling, inside laundry room, walk-in closets and screened lanai. Minutes from Publix Shopping Center and elementary schools.

Convenient to I-75 for commuting to Sarasota or Ft. Myers. $89,900 Call Ellen McCarthy 235-5648

SUCH A TERRIFIC BUY! – Beautiful 3/2/2 home on freshwater canal on 1.5 lots. Features of this 2,051sf bargain include new roof, hurricane shutters and lanai screening in 2005 and new A/C in 2009. Master Bedroom suite with walk-in closets, dual sinks and walk-in shower.

This one won't last long! $129,900Call Ellen McCarthy 235-5648

WHAT A GREAT LAKE VIEW from this Heritage Oaks end unit, 2nd floor condo nestled in beautiful Oak trees. Volume ceilings give an open spacious feeling.

Furnished with Florida style furniture. Huge great/living room with combo dining room.

New A/C in 2008. Pride of ownership abounds. Don't miss this one at $149,900 Call Ellen McCarthy 235-5648

FANTASTIC – is one of many ways to describe this 1,881sf Larkin custom built 3/2/2 home on oversized corner double lot. Beautiful landscaping, fruit trees, split rail fencing, pump house, outside workshop, lawn shed, wood-burning fireplace, family room, oak flooring, berber carpet and tile, List is endless. only $149,900.

Call Ellen McCarthy 2356-5648

DEEP CREEK BEAUTY – 3/2/2 with heated pool, tile roof, nice landscaping with curbing and stones to match pavers at front entry and lanai/pool area. After you have seen the rest, see the best. This home features great room and large country kitchen open to dining room, with lots of wood cabinets. And more. Come see it! $178,900 Call Ellen McCarthy 235-5648

POOL HOME ON 3 LOTS -- 3/2/2 with 2,046 sq. ft. shows pride of ownership.

This beautiful home includes hurricane shutters, sprinkler system, new water system, 2008 metal roof, large pool equipment storage room, sliders to lanai, kitchen with bar and pantry, separate laundry room, 7 ceiling fans, and 3 bay windows. Relaxing Master Bedroom has sitting area , 2 walk-in closets, dual sinks and jetted garden tub. Privacy abounds! $199,900. Call Ellen McCarthy 235-5648

MYAKKA RIVER VIEW – Waterfront living at itʼs best. If you are thinking of a home on the River, this one is for you. 2,770 sq. ft. built 2006 home with all the upgrades youʼll love. 3 bedrooms, 3 ½ baths. 3-car garage.

Walkway to dock and boat lift. Master downstairs with living, dining, family room, kitchen and nook. 2 bedrooms, sitting room and bath upstairs. Breath-taking décor in all rooms, with ceiling fans, trays, molding, lighting, wood cabinets, corian thru out.

This one is a charm at $675,000 Call Ellen McCarthy 235-5648

Ellen McCarthy Broker Associate www.portcharlotte-pgi.c ellenmc@portcharlotte-pgi.com www.portcharlotte-pgi.c

ellenmc@portcharlotte-pgi.com

19700 Cochran Blvd • Port Charlotte, FL 33948

April

2010

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

Page 3

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

Page 4

April

2010

www.fishinfranks.com L e t t e r s t o : Wa t e r L I F E @ c o m c a s t . n e t

Automated Radio Check On nice days VHF channel 16 can be jammed with frequent radio checks. Sea Tow Charlotte Harbor has set up two Automated Radio Check (ARC) sites covering the Charlotte Harbor area, one at Punta Gorda Marina and one at Burnt Store Marina. Each site has an antenna height of about 30ʼ. The 6db antenna is connected to a land based radio with a recording device.

The radio monitors channel 24. When calling for a radio check on channel 24, key the mic and make your transmission, e.g. “Sea Tow, Sea Tow, this is sailing vessel Nimble looking for a radio check. Come back”. A second after the mic is released the device will play back a message. This message will include a play back of your transmission, giving you an exact copy of how you are being heard from that location and distance.

Keep in mind that the Sea Tow message and location may be heard 5x5 by you but the recording may be weak. This is just a true indication of how you are being received. Both sites are up and running 24/7 and should be reachable at all times. If you have any questions contact us at our local office.

Encourage your members to use the service as frequently as needed. Please spread the word; a clear channel 16 is good for everyone!

Fair winds and following seas, Capt. Mike DeGenaro Sea Tow Charlotte Harbor

(941) 766-8180

Mail: 217 Bangsberg Rd. Port Charlotte, FL 33952

TOTALLY INDEPENDENT

Not affiliated with any other publication

From Danny in New York : This sturgeon is still alive, just worn out from the fight. As the sports fishermen they are, they turned him loose after the photo. This sturgeon was caught on the Lake of the Woods, Kenora, Ontario, Canada. It weighed out at over 1,000 lbs and measured out at 11'1". It was 56-inches around the girth and took over 6 and a half hours, and 4 dozen beers, for the 4 guys taking turns at reeling it in. Any Sturgeon OVER about five feet has to be released unharmed and cannot be removed from the water.

Capt Ron, Here's a few thoughts on your channel marking dilemma; forgive me if they are a little simplistic or obvious. Certainly large offshore type buoys should be avoided due to their heavy weight and greater current resistance, making them all that more difficult to anchor securely. I would recommend the smallest cans or nuns or even the plastic type markers used for no wake and manatee zones.

Up this way, a lot of the passes (e.g.

Pass-a-grille) have wood pilings that seem to be very cheap and quick to jet into the sand bottom - maybe $400-$500 apiece including installation. It seems that these are fairly easy to move and

ADVERTISE HERE

$99 per month!

Water LIFEʼs 1/8 page ad (this size) call 941-766-8180

Magazine inc.

Michael & Ellen Heller Publishers

e-mail (preferred) Waterlife@comcast.net

Water LIFE is ALL ONLINE every month

just

Water LIFE

Not per WEEK

4- C O L O R always FREE

If you want to reach boaters and fishermen...we are IT!

reuse, also. As an alternative, have screw type anchors been considered?

Since these will be dropped just inside the channel, they should stay put since the channel will only be filled in making them more secure. I don't know if abandoning them causes any threat to dredge drill heads but I would think it would be minimal. I would think they could be retrieved using the same equipment that is used to jet in pilings. I believe these screw anchors are used frequently up north to secure mooring balls and are very reliable and inexpensive.

Well that's my 2 cents.Good luck, Jon Ise, Apollo Beach

Vol IX No4 © 2010

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

No part of this publication (printed or electronic) may be copied or reproduced without specific written permission from the publisher.

Contributing Editors:

Photography ASA1000.com Senior Editor: Capt. Ron Blago Charlotte Harbor Tarpon: Capt. Mark Bennett Port Charlotte: Capt. Andy Medina Gasparilla: Capt. Chuck Eichner Offshore: Capt. Steve Skevington Commercial Fishing: Kelly Beall Sea Grant: Betty Staugler Real Estate: Dave Hofer Inshore: Fishinʼ Frank Diving: Adam Wilson Kayaks: David Allen Sailing: Bill Dixon Office Dog: Molly

on the COVER :

Bigger redfish are starting to come back from offshore. Docks around the ICW are prime spots to look for them.

www.waterlifemagazine.com www.kidscuptournament.com

www.waterlifemagazine.com Link to your website from ours ... advertise in Water LIFE

Water LIFE i s the o ffi ci al publ i cati o n o f the Charl o t t e Harb o r Reef As s o ci at i o n, the o ri g i nato r o f the Ki ds Cup To urnament and the pro ducer o f the Do n Bal l Scho o l o f Fi s hi ng .

We don’t just count the people we reach, we reach the people that count

Kids Cup Moments

April

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

2010

By Mi chael Hel l er Water LIFE editor This month marks our seventh Kids Cup Tournament which will be held on May 15. Kids who participated in the first Kids Cup are now adult boat captains taking younger kids out. It is hard to believe it is r seven years already.

The Kids Cup came to be not as a money making venture but as a sort of 100-percent not for profit civic responsibility, a way of filling the need for young anglers to be out fishing and having fun.

For 15 or more years before the first Kids Cup Punta Gorda had one form of kids fishing event or another. For at least 10 years the local chapter of the CCA put on a kids fishing day. It was a wonderful event that drew 200 kids. In the CCA event kids showed up at tghe dock, registered and were sent down to a boat staffed by adult volunteers. The adults took the kids out fishing and everyone had a good time. That is, until the CCA lawyers got wind of what was going on. Then fears of sexual predators and liability concerns caused the main office of the CCA too cancel their popular kids fishing event.

Enter my brainstorm for a Kids Tournament. That was just the time when the big redfish tournaments were coming

into being. Up until then it was mostly big bass tournaments but in the early 2000s big redfish tournaments led by the now defunct Redfish Cup began to become popular.

We parred the Kids Cup with the Oberto Redfish Cup when it came to Punta Gorda and patterned our event after it. We set it up so our top 5 kids went on to fish with the Redfish Cup anglers on their final day and they weighed in on the big stage in front of the ESPN cameras.

Then, last year, the economic sink hole swallowed the Redfish Cup and it disappeared.

But there are a lot of great Kids Cup memories burned in my brain, all with big grinning smiles.

There was Cody Bollinger, a polite 10 year old who struggled to hold his big redfish on the stage and thanked us ever so profusely for the event.

There was Tyler Bretton who was the hang around kid at Fishin Franks who made it to the top ten and gained some self confidence in the doing.

Last year Collin Moore a ten year old whipped the bigger boys and carried off the Kids Ciup Trophy. Brian Varney who mad the top 5 several times, never winning the Cup but never loosing his smile or good additude either. There was the

Page 5

One of the great Kids Cup moments was when the girls from Hooters snuck up on then 14 year old 2005 KIds Cup winner Tommy Davis and we snapped this photo.

team that stopped to retrieve another competitor’s tackle bag that had fallen overboard without him knowing and there was the girl whi I mistakenly identified as an age group winner who politely tole me there was another 11 year old that had a bigger fish. Sher got yhe sportsmanship award that year.

But the thing I remember best are the kids who didn’t win, the kids who flashed us thumbs up from their boats as they

motored off, the parents who have come up to us all around town in supermarkets and drugstores taking their time to thasnk us for putting on the Kids Cup. Of course it is us who should be thanking them all, for participating, and us who in turn thank the numerous sponsors who have helped to make thw Kids Cup a success. The Kids Cup is a community event and the whole community should be proude to be a part of it.

Punta Gorda Isles

Punta Gorda Isles

North Port

Call the Captain!

EXCEPTIONAL PRICE For A 2007 4/2/2 Home!

Granite counters, open floor plan, lanai, oversize garage, central vac, manabloc plumbing and tile floors. Nearly 2200sf under air! $149,799

Punta Gorda

Call the Captain! FAST ACCESS TO CHARLOTTE HARBOR! Perfect building lot; southern exposure, 100' of seawall, dock and davits. 5 minutes to harbor and 25 minutes to the Gulf. $175,000

Port Charlotte

Call the Captain!

INCREDIBLE DEEP WATER SAILBOAT Waterfront Lot Only 8 Lots In from the Harbor! Complete with seawall and fill. Perfect for the investor or perfect to build. $157,800

Pirate Harbor

Call the Captain!

WATERFRONT Key West Style Home! Located in one of the best areas left in Florida. Enjoy the relaxing lifestyle. 3/3/2, 3020sf, '1981', dock, boat hoist $250,000

Call the Captain! SPECTACULAR SAILBOAT WATERFRONT 3-Car-Garage Home! Over 2400sf, situated on a wide basin with spectacular views. Granite counters, high ceilings, fantastic floorplan, plantation shutters and expensive appointments. $429,900

Pirate Harbor

Call the Captain! BEAUTIFUL 3/2/2.5 POOL HOME and 25 Minutes To The Gulf! Nicely updated, no bridges and nearly 2000sf under air. A remarkable waterfront home only 5 minutes to the harbor with 100' of seawall. $329,000

Pirate Harbor

Call the Captain!

WATERFRONT PARADISE- Key West Style Stilt Home! Huge wraparound deck Immediate harbor access, boat ramp! Updated kitchen, flooring, & roof. Open plan w/ spiral staircase! $249,000

Pirate Harbor

Call the Captain! KEY WEST

STYLE HOME Nautical Flair.

3800sfAir. New metal roof, 2 new A/C's, new hardy panel siding, new windows,.

Handlaid fieldstone planters, huge palms, extra wide RV Pad, oversize 2 car garage, jacuzzi tub, 2 boat lifts. $399,900

Punta Gorda Isles

Call the Captain!

2 INTERSECTING CANALS! Large, New 3/2/2 custom pool home. Decorative circular driveway, beautiful tiled floor, custom inlays, terrific floorplan, etched glass sliders, vaulted ceilings extraordinary architecture designer kitchen. $579,000

Call the Captain! MAGNIFICENTLY BEAUTIFUL! Like New '2003' With 2800sf Under Air! High ceilings, granite counters, designer spa and fine touches throughout.

Circular drive, extraordinary appointments and walking distance to Fisherman's Village. One of most beautiful homes on the market today! $695,000 Punta Gorda Isles

Port Charlotte

Call the Captain! BEAUTIFUL Call the Captain! SUPER PGI WATERFRONT POOL HOME 10 Minutes To Open Water! Nicely updated 3/2/2, 1800sf/air, hurricane windows, large dock, updated kitchen, roof, flooring with new pool heater and refinished pool & deck.

Incredible condition! $289,000

Sailboat Waterfront

Call the Captain! DEEP WATER SAILBOAT HOME Immediate Harbor Access In Desirable Doctors Row!! 3/2, fenced oversize lot with 100' of seawall with views of the harbor at waters edge.

New Windows and Roof! $199,000

NICE DEEP WATER SAILBOAT HOME 2 Lots!! Great for storing RV or building extra garage! Updated kitchen, pretty laminate flooring, new carpet & tile! Huge pool & lanai overlooking water! $329.900

Punta Gorda

Call the Captain!

COMPLETELY REMODELED Sailboat Waterfront Home, 5 minutes to the harbor, 3/2/2, boat lift, 100' seawall, new kitchen, baths, tile, paint, oversize lot $199,900

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

Page 6

April

2010

AJ Field Day Offshore With Capt Steve

Capt. S teve S kevi ngton Water LIFE Offshore This March has been one good month to go fishing ... if you could get out... we had a lot of very windy days.

But a lot of good fish did come to the boat and a lot of great fishing memory's were made.

Even though the list of fish to hunt down this April is a long one, I will start with my favorite.

Of coarse this fish is the kingfish.

Trolling for these guys is probably the most effective, and fastest way to fill up a box. One thing we know we need for kingfish of any size is a super smooth drag and a lot of line on your reel.

Slow trolling live greenbacks over hard bottom and clear water is all but a guarantee for big kings this month.

Some of the smoker kings will be found on wrecks from 20-40 miles out, but some will be right up on the beach, you’ll just have to put the time in to find the ones you’re looking for.

A lot of very big sharks should be hooked-up this month. The trick to finding these guys is simple, chum, chum and $109,000

31' Contender Fish Around 2006 $84,900

31' Contender Open 310 CC 2004

more chum, then hold on tight!

It's real hard to top boating a six- to seven-foot blacktip shark early in the morning, but it can be done this month!

Amberjack are still out there just begging to pick a fight with just about anyone willing to put a big live bait out over a deep wreck, this kind of fishing involves a long ride offshore and a strong back.

There's just a lot going on offshore this month. The gag grouper bite is still hot in water about 50- to 80-feet. Drifting with live pinfish until you hook-up with a quality fish is a great way to find gag's, then once you find them anchor-up and test your strength with a few.

April is also a great snapper month with yellow tail snapper stacking up on the deeper spots and mangrove snapper piling up on those same near-shore wrecks with the amberjack. It's really hard to do anything wrong this month ....except not go fishing at all.

Capt. Stev e operates out of Pineland Marina. He can be reached for fishing information or to book a charter trip at: 941-5753528 website is: paradisefishingcharters.com

$23,900

$39,900

25' Rinker 250 Express 2006 $49,900

31' Sea Ray 310 Sundancer 1999

$39,900

33' Cape Dory Sloop1982

28’ Bayliner 1997 $34,000

34' Silverton Convertible 1988

$89,900

28’ Triton 2007

$59,900

40' Sea Ray 400 Express 1992

April

2010

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

SCUTTLEBUTT

Sometimes Unsubstanciated,But Often True

VERY VERY BAD IDEA The County Commissioners, in their infinite wisdom, plan to move Sea Grant, the 4-H program and the entire rest of the County Extension and Master Gardner programs in with Parks and Rec at the offices out behind Ranger Stadium. Sea Grant would fall between Parks Maintenance and the Library division in the new bureaucratic quagmire called This picture, posted on the Florida Sportsman website last Community Services. month, after an IFA Tournament controversy, shows a fish It’s a cost cutting move pen found in a creek. Pens like these are used to hold fish that will clearly be a set- that are later entered in a fishing tournament. The FWC says it has already cited tournament anglers in Lee County for back for Charlotte doing just that.

Harbor aquatic projects.

The Sea Grant position local sportfisherman and diver who has benefits from being near the water. The invested millions in his vision of a Harbor benefits from Sea Grant. legitimate top shelf Fisherman’s If the County really wants to save Paradise to share with others. I think its money they could move the Sea Grant going to be one of the coolest things for and Extension offices to the building sportfishermen to come along in a long now occupied by the History Center on time. It’s not made to just be a Bayshore and do away with the history Middlegrounds operation, the plan origibranch. That facility never has any visinally called for it to move around to vartors and the activity might drive some of ious hot fishing destinations around the the bums out of Bayshore Park next Gulf. It could actually open up the bluedoor. Charlotte County needs to protect water fishery here if they were to park it its Harbor environment and that’s Sea out near the shelf edge for a while in the Grant’s job. Hopefully there is still time late summer.” to reconsider.

HATCHERY HAPPENINGS S LOW S HRIMP We understand there are some new “So far shrimping this season is as hatchery projects slated to come online bad as last year. About 1/3 of 2000-2005 this year, part of the FWCs program to catch. At least the catfish are gone! – establish a network of regional hatchJohn Mehaffey, Iron Ox shrimp boat. eries around the state. Charlotte Harbor?

FIS HING BARGE MORE S HARK ‘HELP’ Po sted on a web forum: NOAA's Fisheries Service has out“I have some knowledge of the operalined new measures to rebuild the popution and can tell you it is not like that. lations of blacknose sharks, help end There is definitely not going to be prosoverfishing on shortfin mako sharks, titution onboard and I don’t think there and begin management of smooth dogis going to be gambling. fish in waters including the Gulf.

The owner is a smart and wealthy

Page 7

Tarpon Bragging Rights

Page 8

By Capt. Mark Bennett Water LIFE Tarpon This past March has been one of the most challenging I can remember. The whitebait was late getting here, we had cooler than average air and water temperatures and a NNW wind that never seemed to change. Hopefully it will warm up and things will get back to normal soon. I don’t know how everybody else feels but, I for one am ready for April.

This month is one of the best times of the year to get out and fish this area.

For a lot of anglers April means bait aplenty and serious snook and redfish action on the flats and backcountry. For me it signals the arrival of the tarpon.

Once they move into the area everything else takes a back seat to the silver kings. In my opinion there is no other fish in this world that compares to the sheer power, stamina and beauty of a giant tarpon.

Lately, I have been asked by a whole lot of people if I thought the tarpon would be late this season because of the extra long and cold winter. After 18 seasons chasing tarpon around this area, I really have no clue. The one thing I do

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

promise, it will be different. Every year regardless of the weather or conditions, the tarpon always throw you a curve or two. Sure there are some similarities in their movements from season to season, but it is never the same.

One day about 8 or 9 years ago in June, on the dock at Uncle Henry’s on Boca Grande, Capt. Bobby Buswell walked up to me and said, “Son, where did all of the fish go?” I responded, “I wanted to ask you the same question.”

The last two or three days the tarpon that seemed to be everywhere had been almost nonexistent. I asked him if there were any patterns he had seen over time that helped him stay on top of the tarpon and a step ahead of everyone else.

He laughed and responded, “After 53 years of tarpon fishing I still don’t know s*#t.” He then said, “I get up in the morning and run down the same beach as you. Let me save you a few headaches; quit trying to figure them out now. I quit trying 30 years ago.”

I was excited and humbled at the time just for him taking the time to talk to me, but his wise words have stuck with me ever since. I guess some daily or weekly patterns are absolutely learned

April

2010

Mmark Bennett brings a big tarpon boatside in this photo from last season.

with experience, but from year to year it is anybody’s guess.

For the people that don’t know who Capt. Buswell is, he ran the boat Little Tiger, and guided tarpon along the beaches and in the bay for over 50 years before he retired. In my opinion he is the best there ever was. It has been said that he knew where the tarpon would go before they knew.

One more thing, last month’s story about the Florida Wildlife Research Institute’s “Tarpon DNA Genetic Tagging Program” was great. I got involved last season when I noticed the top samplers in the past were bragging a little too much. Seems the Tampa guys think they catch more tarpon than the locals in our water. Even after I dominated the competition, out-tagging them all last season, they are still talking.

So now I am reaching out to the

photo by Jeni Bennett

local fishermen and guides in this area to get involved in this program and silence the static.

Anyone who wants to get involved email TarponGenetics@myfwc.com, they will send you sampling kits free of charge.

So come on Danny, Chuck, Derrick, Rhett, Scott, Andy, Phil, Jay and the rest of you guys, this is our house, we need to represent in this competition.

You guys talk a good game, now is the chance to let the tarpon benefit from our egos for a change. (Yes, Chuck I stole that line from you!)

Till next time, keep the line tight and bow when they jump.

Capt. Mark Bennett can be reached at (941) 474-8900. His website is: www.tarponsnook.com

On the Line: Manatee Madness Strikes Again

April

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

2010

On the Li ne wi th Capt Ron Bl ago Water LIFE Senior Staff The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has asked Charlotte County to begin the process of implementing a State Approved Manatee Protection Plan (MPP). Some may say what is the harm in that. Don’t we all want to do our part and protect our beloved manatees?

Well people, this has nothing to do with helping manatees; this is nothing but a power grab by the FWC to control local waterways and the land adjacent to the waterfront. In 1989 the then Governor approved the selection of 13 “Key Counties” to produce these MPPs. Most of these counties dragged their feet so the state legislature passed a law in 2002 forcing them to finish their plans. The last one was completed and approved in 2007. It only took 18 years for the FWC to get that job done; and that was at a time when the prevailing wisdom was that the manatee was on the verge of extinction, at least according to some people.

Now the FWC want to add Charlotte County to that list and I can’t for the life of me figure out why. Could it be that the manatee is in greater peril now then in 1989?

The first synoptic population survey done in 1991 found a total population of 1,267 manatees in Florida; the last one done this year found 5,076 manatees. Looks like greater peril is not the reason. Maybe its because boaters are the real threat to the survival of the manatee.

Lets look at a recent FWC press

release from March 23 “ As of March 19, biologists with the FWC and the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI) have documented 431 manatee carcasses in state waters so far in 2010.

This preliminary data indicates that in just three months, the number of manatee deaths has exceeded the highest number on record for an entire calendar year, which was 429 in 2009. The cause of death for a majority of these animals is ‘cold stress.’ Looks like you can’t blame boaters for cold weather or even red tide. It seems to be all Mother Nature.

Perhaps its because Charlotte County boaters are particularly reckless. Of all the 431 manatees killed so far this year, not one of them was killed by a boater in Charlotte County.

Is now the time to put additional

No wonder we have more manatees than ever, Their favorite two things are eating and mating

dened taxpayers.

If you don’t think this is a big deal; just remember that the last time the FWC came to town in 2001 , the result was a moratorium on all waterfront development for two years. No marinas or boat ramps or even private docks were permitted. Lemon Bay was turned into a giant manatee slow zone; which was one of the main reasons Mercury Marine closed down the Mercarbo test facility in Placida which resulted in the lost of 50 high paying local jobs. Also; Charlotte County was forced to pay for the installation of over 130 ugly Manatee Zone signs and pilings in the pristine Peace River. That’s a very big deal if you’re a boater.

Right now the Board of County Commissioners is looking for candidates to be on a local fact finding committee. I’ve been told they want people from the environmental, boating and the business community. If you have an interest in manatee regulations; I suggest you contact the BCC and volunteer to serve.

We have to get new ideas and new people in the mix; if not we will get the same results-more restrictions on boaters.

This has nothing to do with helping manatees; this is nothing but a power grab by the FWC to control local waterways and the land adjacent to the waterfront mandatory regulations on the people of Charlotte County?

Lets look at our economic situation.

According to the FHA, 16 of the top 25 locales with the highest default rate for FHA home loans are in Florida with Punta Gorda being number one, with 22.7 of all FHA loans being in default.

The unemployment rate in Florida is now at 12.2%, the highest on record; and the per capita income in Florida last year was down 3.29%. Not exactly the best of times for new government mandates to be paid for by already over bur-

Page 9

Capt. Ron can be reached for comments or fishing information at: capronb@juno.net

Consignment Boats Wanted Bayshoremarinefl@yahoo.com

2 0 0 0 Co bi a 2 6 4 CC, twin 200hp Yamahas, T-Top, Porta-Potti, SS Props and much more.

Onl y $31,900 2004 Hurricane Fun Deck 226 115hp Yamaha 4-stroke w/60hrs., Trolling Mtr. Porta Potti, Bimini.

2001 & 2004 Aqua Sports -

Asking $13,900

Pictured: Aqua Sport 275, Twin Yami. 200hp 4- strokes, electronics, air, lift stored.

Starting at

$49,900

2005 Key West 186 Bay Reef with a Suzuki 140hp Four Stroke. Swing Away Aluminum Trailer, Live Well Great SW Florida Boat! Only

Boats Needed -

$12,000

Let US sell YOUR boat TODAY!

941-627-5777

23269 Bayshore Rd Charlotte Harbor

Mangrove Update

Page 10

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

Alligator Creek 3/20/10

Quick Look

While the cold, windy and wet winter was unpleasant for humans and shocking many fragile tropical species of exotic palms, when we flew around the Harbor last month we were pleasantly surprised to see thick new growth on the scattered mangrove islands between Alligator Creek and Pirate Harbor.

On the east side of the Harbor the numerous tall, grey, dead mangrove branches now seem to be disappearing in new green growth – at least it looked

April

2010

East Side 3/20/10 that way from the air.

Clusters of green are beginning to overhang the shoreline while the dead trees continue to rot away.

The west side, just above Cape Haze, didnĘźt seem as green. It was late in the afternoon and the light was in full shadow on the shoreline but the crushed silver ribbon of dead wood still dominated the landscape there.

We will be going back soon, in better light, for more pictures.

East Side 3/20/10

April

2010

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

Fishʼs Spring Break on Charlotte Harbor

By Capt. Chuck Ei chner Water LIFE Inshore April is one of the most remarkable months for fishing on Charlotte Harbor.

Fish in the Harbor are like teenagers on spring break. Arriving from countless locations, snook, tarpon, redfish, grouper, mackerel, cobia, sharks, jack crevalle, bonita, kingfish and many less popular fish will come pouring in. The party is driven by hunger and after a long winter the basic scenario is “the big fish eat the little fish”!

If an angler could actually see the fish movements it would be quite a stellar sight. Snook will be funneling out of the Peace and Myakka Rivers searching for food as they gradually make their way towards the beach areas. April is an incredible snook month and 30-50 fish days are not uncommon. They will travel in packs and settle in on points and mangrove shorelines spreading out on all sides of the harbor.

From the Gulf side, Boca Grande Pass is the super-highway for nearly every fish that swims within 10 miles of the beaches. Mackerel arrived into the harbor in mid-March and normally they will work their way towards the Peace River and

Ladyfish arrived in huge numbers recently hanging and tarpon will follow their migration.

settle in along the way, munching the seasonal baitfish that also just arrived.

Despite the cold in March, pilchards were present and by the end of March threadfins were around as well. Add to that glass minnows and crabs that followed into the harbor.

Ladyfish arrived in huge numbers recently and tarpon will follow their migration along with the mackerel. These are big baits for big fish and the tarpon will be hungry. Of course, Tarpon will be

around the pods of threadfin herring as well.

April will see a flood of jack crevalle and cobia are well under way in their seasonal migration up the coast. Cobia will visit us sporadically and can often be seen sunning on the sandbars. The biggest cobia of the year will be spotted soon and many exceeding 60 pounds will be around. I have had a hard time making the big ones eat, but the 30-40 inch baby cobia also make for some great fishing.

If you could somehow see all of this sub-surface activity, the Harbor waters would look like a California freeway with certain species exhibiting specific travel patterns. There are certainly collisions of fish that will work in unison to attack smaller prey. Birds flying overhead will give clues of baitfish being chased to the surface and often ladyfish, mackerel and jacks will be in the fray. Tarpon and cobia will not be far behind! Sharks will begin to appear as well along with spotted eagle rays and swarms of cownose rays in schools of 100 or more.

As an angler your greatest challenge will be dealing with April winds and choppy waters. Of course, each day must be calculated based on tidal flow and tide

P a g e 11

heights. Fish that are seen crashing bait in front of Harpoon Harry’s on the Peace River might be at Boca Grande Pass the following day so fishing can certainly be hit or miss.

The last couple of year’s king mackerel, a.k.a. kingfish have shown up just inside the pass along with bonita. We have had kingfish hooked up close to 5 feet in length and bonita in the 10-12 pound class. To me this is nothing short of incredible in a fishing-hole as small as Charlotte Harbor.

The fishing methods are fairly simple.

Catch the bait the fish are feeding on and freeline or bottom fish. You can cast net pilchards and threadfin herring or use a sabiki rig for the threadfin. Artificial lures work excellently and spoons, plastic swimbaits, bucktail jigs and plugs all have a place. The hardest part of fishing is choosing the species to target. I find that focusing on one species is the way to go, but if you haven’t connected in several hours you will surely want to redirect your efforts to a less challenging target. A bent rod is a beautiful thing and this is the month for it. The Charlotte Harbor spring break is in full swing and after a long winter we have all been waiting for this party to begin!

Capt. Chuck Eichner operates Action Flats Back country Charters and can be contacted for charters at 941-505-0003 or v isit www.back country -charters.com

Page 12

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

April

2010

April

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

2010

KIDS CUP Update Dinner Location Moved to Charlotte Events Center May 15

By Mi chael Hel l er Kids Cup Tournament Director We’re moving on UP! Somehow Benedetto’s Restaurant where we have had the Kids Cup dinner for the last 5 years, had double booked with a high school event for 250 students. That’s too many people, so WE HAVE MOVED THE DINNER ACROS S THE S TREET TO THE NEW CHARLOTTE EVENTS CENTER. Same time (5:30pm) same check in procedure, lasagna, spaghetti and meatballs, salad, rolls, drinks and dessert. The best part is we have plenty of room for additional guests (at $15 a head) so if Grandma wants to see what goes on call us (766-8180) and we’ll make an extra reservation.

Sponsor stuff is coming in for the Captain’s bags. The Don Coffee Company will again provide Mr Twi ster/ Exude baits, Eppi nger will provide gold spoons, Circle hooks from Eagl e Cl aw and X-Tool s plyers for everyone. S tri ke Ki ng and Quantum are again in for the 7th year with Quantum Cabo rods and reel s for the top5. Mercury Mari ne has sent us hats, visors and Mercury kid size embroidered guide shirts from Colombia and Bimini Bay (we thank them in these difficult economic times for their continued support for the 7th straight year. The Mercury shirts will be in addition to our Kids Cup T-shirts that every Jr. Angler and adult will receive.

Page 13

Sponsor support continues to be good this year.

Don Gasgarth Ford is a Graduate Level sponsor again. Bill Rossi and Don Gasgarth at Don Gasgarth Ford have supported the Kids Cup from it’s inception in 2004. Thanks guys, fom the Kids!

Burnt S tore Cafe is a Senior Level sponsor, as is Charl otte Honda VW at the PC Automall.

And thanks to John Wright at the Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce for their Senior Level sponsorship and promotional help again this year.

Friends of the 7th Grade level sponsors include The Hobby S hop in Port Charlotte, thanks Mike and Brian. West Coast Trai l er, thanks Don and Faye, FantaS ea S cuba, thanks Jim and Julie, Murdock Ti re and Auto, thanks Jim and Peter, The back image on the 2010 Kids Cup T-shirt will look like this.

S ea Tow Charl otte Harbor, thanks Mike, and Every jr. angler and every adult boat driver receives a shirt El ena’s Restaurant, thanks Jim and Paul. Thank you all! Jimi and Steve at Wrap S i gn and the Show in June with proceeds going to our Don Ball S i gn Center will be putting together a new leaderboard School of Fishing. Thanks to Patti and Jim for their conand artist Tom Krause will again provide the age group tinued support and thanks to our friend and Kids Cup gold framed picture trophies as he has in years past. weighmaster Capt. Ralph Allen at Ki ngfi sher Fl eet for S tump Pass Mari na will again be the Competitor’s doing the seminars.

Trophy Sponsor so again every Kids Cup angler gets a You can sign up for the Kids Cup the night of the trophy. Thanks to Mark Lindsay.

Captain’s dinner, but there is no guarantee we will have a Fi shermen’s Vi l l age is not only hosting the Kids T-shirt in your size! It’s better to mail in an online appliCup but they will be holding a special fundraising Boat cation form or pick one up at a local bait and tackle shop.

Red Grouper:

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

Page 14

April

2010

An Engineering Marvel

By Betty S taugl er Water LIFE / Sea Grant Red grouper is an economically important species of the southeast United States and in particular the Gulf of Mexico. Red grouper are highly territorial and often remain at the same site for long periods of time. We now know red grouper are also engineering marvels for their ability to modify habitat through excavation. A recently published paper by a group of researchers led by Dr. Felicia Coleman of Florida State University, evaluated the architectural activities of red grouper and concluded that red grouper help enhance biodiversity by creating and maintaining structural habitat for other marine life.

Red grouper are often associated with karst (limestone) environments and in particular “solution holes”. Solution holes were formed thousands of years ago when sea level was lower, and freshwater dissolved holes in the limestone surface.

When sea level rose to its present state, these solution holes filled with sediment.

Red grouper are commonly associated with these limestone solution holes, but

scientists were never able to demonstrate they actually helped create and maintain them.

Coleman and her colleagues observed and documented red grouper removing the sediment from these holes, and restructuring the flat bottom into a three dimensional structure. Much like beavers who construct dams, red grouper act as ecosystem engineers that modify their environment and create habitat for themselves and other species. They remove sand with their mouths and fan away sediments with their fins, exposing the limestone bottom that can be colonized by other marine life such as corals, anemones, and sponges as well as the organisms that depend on them. The study also showed that commercially important species such as spiny lobster, black grouper, red porgy and vermillion snapper among others, benefited from the red grouper's engineering abilities.

Red grouper also benefit from digging the holes. “Watching these fish dig holes was amazing enough, Dr Coleman noted, “but then we realized that the sites served

BOAT RAFFLE

DRAWING 12 NOON, 29 MAY 2010

AT

FISHIN FRANKS

BAIT AND TACKLE SHOP 4425 TAMIAMI TRL PORT CHARLOTTE, FL 33980

TICKETS: $20.00 EACH CONTACT INFO:

CAPT LARRY TODD 941-626-0810 OR 941-889-7193

1995 SILVER KING

18’8” FLATS BOAT WITH TRAILER RETAIL VALUE $18,000.00 NEW YAMAHA 150 HP FOUR STROKE (20 HRS, 6 YR WARRANTY) NEW 8’ POWER POLE MOTOR GUIDE TROLLING MOTOR (71 LB THRUST) NEW PAINT, JACK PLATES, TRIM TABS, POLLING PLATFORM VHS RADIO, LOWRANCE GPS (HANDHELD) DUAL BATTERY CHARGER

BOAT CAN BE SEEN AT 233 EAST TARPON BLVD, PORT CHARLOTTE, FL. 33952 CONTACT CAPT LARRY TODD PRIOR TO VIEWING THE BOAT.

NOTE: RAFFLE IS BASED ON THE SALE OF 800 OF 1000 TICKETS AVAILABLE. ALL MONEY WILL BE RETURNED IF LESS THAN 800 TICKETS ARE SOLD

to attract mates, beneficial species such as cleaner shrimp that pick parasites and food scraps off the resident fish, and a variety of prey species for the red grouper.

So it's no surprise that the fish are remarkably sedentary. Why move if everything you need comes to you?”

Researchers observed excavating behaviors in both juvenile red grouper in shallow waters of the Florida Keys and in adults offshore in marine reserves in the Gulf of Mexico. Dr. Coleman noted, “We found through a series of experiments that they not only dug the holes, but maintained them by carrying mouthfuls of sediment from the center of the pit to the periphery and expelling them through their gills and mouths and then brushing off the rocks with their tail fins.”

In one experiment, researchers placed juvenile red groupers in bottomless cages over sediment-filled holes and observed them. Within 48 hours each grouper excavated enough sediment to accommodate its entire body. One grouper escaped by digging under the cage wall. A second experiment evaluated whether red grouper maintain their excavated holes.

In this experiment, non toxic aquarium grade charcoal was placed in 13 active grouper holes. Using video cameras, researchers observed red grouper removing

the charcoal within two hours of it being placed there, and most was completely removed from all sites within 24 hours.

In a final study, researchers used submarines and a remotely operated video camera to document species diversity and abundance associated with red grouper holes. Active grouper holes had greater species diversity and abundance than inactive or sandy bottom sites. In one of the offshore study locations, most of the exposed rock was encrusted in sponges as well as soft and hard corals. Certain species such as sea urchins were only found at maintained grouper holes.

The study entitled, “Benthic Habitat Modification through Excavation by Red Grouper, Epinephelus morio, in the Northeastern Gulf of Mexico,” is published in the most recent issue of the Open Fish Science Journal. To learn more about Dr. Coleman’s research and to view video of red grouper excavating a grouper hole visit: http://www.bio.fsu.edu/coleman_lab/red_g rouper.php

Betty Staugler is the Florida Sea Grant Agent for Charlotte County. She can be reached at 941.764.4346. Sea Grant is a Univ ersity of Florida IFAS program.

April

2010

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

Fishermenʼs Village Plans Boat Show and Clinics to Celebrate National Marina Day June 13-14

National Marina Day is a time when marina operators say thank you to the boaters who support their facility. This year on June 13-14 Fishermen’s Village Yacht Basin will thank local boaters and celebrate the contribution of marinas to our local economy; and call attention to the importance of Charlotte Harbor and their efforts to develop our waterfront.

The Village will have an out-of-water boat show and numerous marine-related vendors as part of the two day event in June. All proceeds from the rental of boat show and commercial vendor space will be donated to the “Don Ball School of Fishing for Area 7th Graders,” administered by the Charlotte Harbor Reef Association and Water LIFE Magazine. Non-profit groups such as boat clubs, environmental groups, etc., will be offered free display space.

Included in the June 13-14 schedule will be Mote Mari ne Mobi l e Laboratory on-site displays.

Fi shi ng and/ or Fl y Fi shi ng cl i ni cs with Capt. Ralph Allen (pre-register) Entertai nment provided by Jimmy Parish and the Ocean Waves Band.

The Isles Yacht Club will sponsor a Boaters’ Mi xer on Friday evening.

Yacht Cl ub Chal l enge Boati ng Competi ti on, details to be announced Lunch will be provided on Saturday at a minimum charge.

Fishermen’s Village: Named the National 2007 “Marina of the Year” by ValvTect Petroleum, Named the National 2008 “Marina of the Year” by Marina Dock Age Magazine

Phone: (941) 575-3000 1200 West Retta Esplanade Email: marina@fishville.com Web: www.fishville.com

Page 15

From the Ol' Fish'n Hole

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

Page 16

By Capt. Ji m O'Bri en Water LIFE Englewood

Boy is our weather getting nicer or what. I am just glad the winds are laying down. I have gotten out a couple of times myself, but boy do you have to look for a window in between fronts, that usually produce high winds, which turn out big waves. Well this weekend is going to be in the 80s with 10 kt. winds. So if you want to go fish'n you have some good days coming up.

I talked with some good ol' fisherman that has been fish’n at the Venice Jettys. They said they have been doing great on sheepshead, right off the rocks on the south side using shrimp.

I also talked with Dick Kern from the Englewood Fishing Club, he said him and his wife went fish'n for the day last week, and they started out at Lil’ Gasperilla Pass catching sheephead, then they decided to come in to the trestle by the Boca Grande Causeway, and they stared catching sheepshead again. Dick said between

him and his wife they caught 25 sheepshead. He said they kept 6 for dinner that was 18 to 21 inches (not bad!) and they were all caught on small pieces of shrimp. By the way, if any one out there would like to join or come by and visit the Englewood Fishing Club, we meet on the second Thursday of each month. I joined a couple of years ago and it is a very nice family oriented club. They have fish'n contests, cook outs, Christmas parties and usually have a guide that talks about fish'n for different types of fish.

Let’s get back to fish'n. They are catching some snapper and sheepshead and black drum on Novak Reef and Trembly Reef. When catching black drum, take some blue crabs with you. I like to cut them in half to let more scent out. Then put them on the bottom and if there are any takers HANG ON! AJs a.k.a. (reef donkeys ) are on the farther out wrecks. The box cars are producing some nice AJs in the 50- to 60-pound range. BIG--BIG PIN fish is

April

Dennis Sykora with a big 38 inch red grouper.

their choice. The Bayoronto wreck has been producing AJs, grouper, and snapper. Don't forget you can keep grouper again now that April is here.

I havn't heard a word on triple tail or cobia. We should get some feed back soon. With grouper back open I got booked for the first 2 weeks of April right away. I just hope the winds stay

2010

down. And remember to get out and snort some of that good cl ean sal t ai r cuz- i t's good fer ya!

If you have any questions or if you have a good ol' fishin’ story or a reciepe for cooking fish that I can share with our readers give me a call. To book an offshore charter with us aboard the Predator II call (941) 473-2150

Charlotte Harbor FISHING GUIDES

LITTLE GATOR CHARTERS BACKWATER & OFFSHORE FISHING Tarpon Redfish Snook Grouper HALF DAY & FULL DAY CHARTERS SIGHT SEEING

ISLAND SHELLING

CAPTLARRYTODD@AOL.COM 9 41 88 9 7 19 3 Englewood Beach, FL

Tarpon Trips Starting at $375

Charters

Offshore Fishing Trips: 1/2 day • 8hr • 10 hr • 12 hr We help put your charters together

Shark, Tarpon, Grouper, Snapper, Kingfish, and MORE!

Nighttime Trips Available

Capt. Jim OʼBrien USCG 50 ton license since 1985

941-473-2150

9 41 6 26 081 0

Charlotte Harbor • PIne Island Sound • Boca Grande • Gulf of Mexico

April

2010

R Re ea al l E Es st ta at te e N Ne ew ws s

PROVIDED BY: Dave Hofer RE/MAX Harbor Realty (941) 575-3777 dhofer@remax.net www.harborparadise.com

Recent area news i tems: 1. Charlotte County had been in secret negotiations with Dhabian Group UAE to sell Murdock Village. The prospective buyer is a high profile developer controlled by the son of the former Sheik of Abu Dhabi. Somehow, the Board managed to squander another $30K in fees ($10K for background checks - I know, I know... Google is free!). Our Commissioners learned that these folks aren't interested in paying 2006 prices for land that is now almost worthless.

2. Weiler Engineering presented Punta Gorda City Council with more plans for the continuation of the Harbor walk along the Peace River. Their concept calls for replacing the Punta Gorda Boat Club & Bayfront Center buildings with a new 2 story 5,000 SF facility with boat storage on the first level.

Total cost $2.5 mil. A 30 foot walkway along the seawall from Fisherman's Village to the Best Western Hotel will tie into a comprehensive bike and walking trail. Redevelopment will also add a 2nd boat ramp and a floating dock.

Construction has already begun on the linear park extension moving South from Fisherman's Village.

3. Charlotte County is proposing to

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

exchange 120 acres east of the Enterprise Charlotte Airport Park for a portion of 140 acres in ECAP. This will make more industrial locations available with infrastructure in place to lure new business to the area. The Industrial Development Authority has low interest bond money available to worthy new businesses. The Authority is prudently withholding funding for all but the most risk free ventures.

4. The Bal Harbor Plaza (at Aqui Esta) will likely see a new Seven-Eleven take over most of the space in the old Wachovia Bank building. The operators will be seeking only minor variances to the required zoning conditions. The UPS store may occupy the remaining space in the bank building.

5. Charlotte County is pushing to lend $5.5 million in Recovery Zone Bonds for the construction of a new 72 room Mainstay hotel adjacent to the, yet to be renamed, sports stadium on Rt 776.

6. Charlotte County is expecting another $12 mil shortfall for the upcoming budget to be approved this fall.

7. Governor Crist had applied to FEMA for relief for owners of property infected with Chinese drywall. Not surprisingly, FEMA declined the request based on their interpretation of what constitutes a disaster intended to be covered by taxpayer relief.

8. While state unemployment funds have run dry, the legislature is not likely to pass along needed costs to employers at this time. One more item for beleaguered taxpayers to subsidize.

Page 17

Some residents were surprised when the deed restricted community of Punta Gorda Isles agreed to let a Seven-Eleven take over the bank building (shown in the backround here) at the entrance to the community.

Charlotte area house price percent change for the previous 12 months

In-house Upholstery Shop

Fabrication • Spot Repairs • Major Structural Custom work is our Specialty 1726 Steadley Ave. Punta Gorda Shop 941- 575-8914 Home 235-2243 Professional Quality Awl Gr ip Fini sh es Gel Coat • Free Estimates Mob ile Ser vi ce

w w w. a l l f i b e r g l a s s r e p a i r s . c o m

Custom Fiberglass

Scott Steffe Owner

K AYA K S !

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

April Kayak & Wildlife Festival

Page 18

By Davi d Al l en Water LIFE Kayaking The Kayak & Wildlife Festival is coming to Port Charlotte on Saturday, April 10. Bigger, Better, Improved …What else can I say! This full day event will be held at Port Charlotte Beach Park, from 8 a.m to 5 p.m., with events scheduled every hour, and some running concurrently. Almost all are free.

In past years the Festival has focused mainly on fun and learning for grownups, but this year more emphasis has been put on events that kids will enjoy. Just two examples are the Great Cardboard Boat Race and the Sailing Adventure. Both are free to youngsters under 18.

For the Cardboard Boat Race, kids will be given cardboard boxes and duct tape, and have one hour to construct a boat that will float (hopefully). Then they will climb into the boat and paddle it across the park pool. Medals will be awarded for the fastest times to complete one lap of the pool. Wear clothes that you can get wet. PFD’s will be provided.

“Sailing Adventures” is another event that will attract the younger crowd. Four or five small sail boats will be available for this event and will launch from the

sheltered north beach at the Park. We want to give the kids who participate a taste of sailing, an experience most are unlikely to get otherwise. Again, this is a free event; just wear clothes and shoes that you can get wet. Qualified instructors will provide hands-on instruction and accompany the young sailors on the water. Call 941-505-8686 to get pre-registered for either or both events.

Wait! There’s More! Two widely dissimilar events which have been hugely successful in past years are the kayak tours and the Wildlife Photography Seminars.

Experienced kayakers will lead paddlers on a 45 minute tour of Alligator Bay and the surrounding mangrove-lined canals.

This is a great experience for fathers, mothers, sons and daughters together.

Often the wildlife seen on these tours is extraordinary, but the scenery is always unforgettable.

The other prime event is Arthur Morris, a famous local wildlife photographer, who will give two 1 ½ hour seminars on wildlife photography and the use of Photoshop to enhance your wildlife images. Mr. Morris’ seminars are always packed, so get there early. You can pre-

view some of Mr. Morris’ works at www.birdsasart.com.

Kayaking, of course, has not been forgotten with all the other events. Some of the most knowledgeable and experienced kayakers in Florida will add their particular flavor to the Festival. Rick Storsberg, a marine biologist, will demonstrate his paddling skills and expertise handling a kayak.

Dave Loger, an expert instructor of “Kayak Fly Fishing Techniques”, will teach you how to enjoy and be successful in this rapidly growing branch of kayaking. Ed Engle will show you how to carve a paddle from a piece of wood…and he’ll do it right on the beach. Phil Dakin will hold an informative seminar on “Kayaking in and around Charlotte Harbor”. He’ll tell you all about interesting places to go and interesting things to see, most an easy paddle from local beaches or ramps.

April

2010

This full day of interesting events, seminars, tours, sailing, etc is brought to you by the Charlotte County Parks Department. Don’t forget to pre-register for the “Sailing Adventure” and the “Great Cardboard Boat Race” Come and enjoy a fun-filled day outside, on the beach and near our beautiful bay.

The Port Charlotte Kayakers meet each Wednesday evening at 5:30 PM at Port Charlotte Beach Park at the end of Harbor Blvd. All are welcome to attend. For additional information contact Dave Allen at 941-235-2588 or dlaa@comcast.net

Stand Up Paddle Boards now available for rental and sales.

F r e e D e m o ' s We e k l y. C a l l f o r l o c a t i o n

Fishing Just Got Easier!

Check out the new Torque from Ocean Kayak Hands-free operation, variable speed forward and reverse Powered by 33 lbs thrust of quiet power from Minn Kota!

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

DIVING: Cold Water, Nice Fish and Treasure Too! April

2010

By Adam Wi l son Water LIFE Diving Despite some of the coldest water I have ever seen, we managed to get in some great dives in March. Offshore the surface temp has been in the high 50s. On the bottom it has been in the mid 50s. Even after all the high winds visibility past 80 feet has been a surprising and very do-able 15-20 feet.

Of course grouper are back in season as of April 1st. All the rough weather and lack of pressure for the past few months has stacked tons of fish up on the big structures. We have seen a lot of quality grouper while hunting snappers and amberjacks last month. For now, recreational fisherman can keep a total of 4 grouper. Of that only two can be reds and only two can be gags.

The amberjacks have been huge this winter. Out past the 100 foot mark we have seen some pushing 100 pounds. When you get in a school of 60-70 pounders, just be patient and the bigger ones won't be far behind. Be careful, either I'm getting older or these fish are stronger than ever right now. I think the colder water temperature and rougher seas has allowed for a higher than normal oxygen level to

develop. Pull the trigger and you will see how much harder these power houses are fighting than their usual round and round summer time tug of war. The last one I got a bad shot on dragged me up 20 feet than down to the bottom before I could blink and he was only about 50 pounds. Also make sure you have some distance between you and your buddy before pulling the trigger. It is easier for your buddy to help you if you aren't tied up together.

It's usually about this time of year we start seeing cobia cruising through, but I think that's going to be delayed until we get some warmer water. The yellowtail snapper are thick right now and that would be a great light tackle target over any large structure as there are zero barracuda and hardly any goliath grouper hanging around to steal your fish. My last dive on the Bayronto I swam the entire wreck and saw only one 50 pound juvenile goliath at the stern. In contrast, during the summer it's nothing to see 50 or more goliaths at this same dive site, with some probably close to 1,000 pounds. The water temps are going to continue to be below average for April, but if you can handle the cold even for one or two dives it's going to

Charlotte Countyʼs Complete Swimming Pool Supplys Pool Repair and Maintenance Store

Little grunts and snappers filled the stomach of the AJs shot on the Bayronto wreck. Below: lobsters!

Specializing in Heaters and Pool Pumps

575-2525

Located in the Punta Gorda Crossing Shopping Center Next to Publix

be worth it. The amount, and size of fish thriving on all our reefs right now is just not seen during the summer.

If you love to fish and are also a diver, my buddies and I have noticed hundreds of dollars of speed jigs on some of the big wrecks offshore.

These are the high dollar ones with the fancy shrink wrapped Owner hooks. I don't really stop to harvest these kinds of things, but if one did, they could likely fill a tackle box quickly. There is also a huge amount of lead on the bottom. I would think a 30 minute dive with a strong mesh sack and a lift bag could supply a boat with egg sinkers for a long time. And don't forget about the anchors. I do usually take the time to float up the expensive ones myself. I would get a real kick out of returning items to their rightful owners, and I know others would too, if the items we found had a name and or at least a phone number.

Next time your'e fishing break out a sharpie and you just might get a phone call next time you lose something overboard!

Page 19

Mon-Fri 9AM-5:30PM Sat 9AM-3PM

“Green Pool” Clean Up & Maintenance

Sun Fri Fri Fri

April 4 April 9 April 16 April 23

1st Sunday BIKERS' BASH music by "Up the Creek" 1 til 5pm Karaoke 6 til 10pm Acoustic Open Mike Night Karaoke 6 til 10pm

Live Music EVERY Sunday afternoon

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

Page 20

Another First!

By Bi l l Di xon Water LIFE Sailing Well, the Conquistador made history again. No one completed Sunday’s 8.4 mile reverse start race, but Alan Capellin from Bradenton was closest to the finish.

Next year a photo of Alan’s S-2 7.9 will be on the T shirt. Turns out they had 74 boats, not a noticeable decline from previous years. Nice job Bob Knowles!!

Winners of the regatta were: Spinnaker 1, Doug Fisher’s Melges 24 Doc Holiday. Spin 2 Alan Capellin’s no name S-2 7.9. Multihull Ed Dixon’s F 24 Tri power. Non spin 1 Jerry Poquette’s Soverel 39 Fancy Free. Non spin 2 Rick

2010

Above: Alan Capellin waiting to win the Conquistador Cup. The lack of wind was a problem that day.

BelowFighting over what little breeze there was.

Below Left: race action, or the lack there of.

Twelve-year-old Trey Etterman from Ashville NC enjoys the action at Marker No. 4 on Serendipity in the March Leukemia Cup race. Serendipity is captained by his grandfather, Mike Buscher.

Pantall’s Merit 22 Ain’t Purty. Cruising 1 David Nauman ‘s Islander 36 Jolly Mon. Cruising 2 Roger Horton’s home built custom Wicked Wicked Ways By the time you read this, the Leukemia Cup will also be history. The small boat winners are: Optimist Pram Lucas Delarza, Flying Scott Martin Holland, Precision 15 Roger Sperry, Laser Sami Tornese, and Sunfish Dennis Peck. Big boat results are: Spinnaker Rooster Tail David Flechsig, Non spinnaker Fancy Free Jerry Poquette, C ruising Jolly Mon David Naumann, Multihull Tri Fecta Donald Wheatley.

Big news to me is that Clearwater Yacht Club has cancelled the Conch Quest Key West Race. They said: “Due to the eco-

April

nomic conditions and much resistance and non registration from many of our past participants, due to high costs in Key West, crew coordination, etc., ... ...Clearwater Yacht Club has decided we need to cancel the Conch Quest regatta this year. We will work on a better strategy for the future.”

Coupled with the Sarasota YC cancellation of the Cuba Race, there will be a big hole in the spring regatta schedule.

Makes Bob Knowles and his team look even better for keeping the Conquistador as strong as ever. dixonwr@comcast.net

Fishing Report April

2010

Charlotte Harbor:

Robert at Fishin' Franks Port Charlotte: 625-3888

Lots of changes going on. Yes, the water temp is cooler than normal, but it is going to come up rapidly now. Fish should be about a week behind their regular schedule. Like the third week of April instead of the second for tarpon showing up. Same way for everything – about a week or 10 days behind. The one drawback is now some species could show up and then leave quickly, like ki ng mackerel . I think we will have a short king mackerel season this spring.

The redfi sh are really starting to feed better now. They will start showing up in the passes soon as they are moving inside. There are already better numbers of redfish along the ICW around Whidden Creek and Sandfly Key. Pine Island, in general, is usually pretty darn good this time of year. The only thing might be the 9 inches of rain we have had in the last few weeks. I don’t know how far the redfish will move up into Charlotte Harbor right now. Shrimp and blue crabs are your best redfish bait.

Split a blue crab in half and swing it out

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

in a sand hole or, if you see the fish, pitch it in front of him. Any of the Gulp Baits or the Fishbites are working well.

I’m going to skip snook because they are closed until further notice, but there are still many nice snook around.

Trout are going to be more difficult to catch as the water warms up. They will be moving to the outside of the bars so look in the deeper holes.

S harks are starting to show up now and will be in better numbers.

Bl ackti ps are moving in following the S pani sh mackerel along with a few bul l s and sadbar sharks. There are new regs on sharks: 54 inches minimum on everything except: Atl anti c sharpnose, bonnethead, bl acknose and bl ackti ps. And l emon sharks are now 100% protected so possessing them at any size is illegal. Look for the sharks following the mackerel and at the nearshore reefs such as Novak and Trembley.

Cobi a should start showing up in good numbers now. We are already getting some mixed reports on cobia catches. Look for cobia cruising the flats in singles and doubles, often following manatees and stingrays.

S pani sh mackerel are already here in very good numbers and should stick around for the next couple of months.

Look for schools of bait, free jumping

Shark, caught at Boca Grande beach on March 20 by Scott Nielsen of Cape Coral.

fish or birds to find the Spanish. The larger mackerel are still along the beaches but a few in the 4 to 6 pound range have been taken inside.

Grouper is now open and there have been very, very good reports of gags and red grouper as close in as 7 miles. Cut sardines, live pinfish or squirrel fish are baits that are producing well, but trolling plugs like the Bomber and the Mann depth specific ones are working very well too. Trolling plugs will also produce ki ngfi sh which should show up towards the end of this month.

Continued on following page

Page 21

Page 22

Fishing Report .

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

The The BIG-4 BIG-4

Fish Fish to to expect expect in in

conti nued from page 21

We have been seeing some decent mangrove snapper.

SPANISH MACKEREL: In the Permi t should be starting to passes on an incoming tide show up also at the near shore reefs. There are a lot of AJs on the near shore reefs.

The butterfly jigs are outfishing live bait on AJs. Grunts and porgys offshore have been phenomenal with some porgys up to 5 pounds coming in. S heepshead will begin to migrate out of the Harbor this month and hang on the offshore reefs until it gets too warm. Then they will start to head north.

Tarpon are moving into the passes. The resident fish at the 41 Bridge and up on the river should really get active now. Catfish tails are your best bait for river tarpon – primarily hard-head cats more than sailcats. Look for rolling fish or anchor at some of the deeper cuts at Shell Creek or at Liverpool at the deep hole on the bend. The juvenile tarpon in the PGI and Port C canals (that survived the frost) are starting to get real active.

Lemon Bay:

Jim at Fishermen’s Edge, Englewood: 697-7595

SHARK: small sharks are here, bigger ones are not far behind

April April

TARPON: River fish are becoming active, travellers are in the southern passes

700 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda

941 - 637-0019

CALENDAR

April 10 Kayak and Wi l dl i fe Fest, PC Beach Complex (941) 505-8686 April 30 - May 1: Gulf 2 Bay Classic, Benefit Tournament for Venice YMCA (941) 234-2041 May 15: Ki ds Cup Redfi sh Tournament and Redfi sh Tracki ng Project, Fisherman’s Village Punta Gorda, Capt’s Meeting at Charlotte Events Center on Friday. $100 entry 766-8180 or www.KidsCupTournament.com May 15 & 22 About Boati ng S afel y course at Lemon Bay Park, USCG Aux, Englewood, 8:30 am - 12:30 pm 941-6979435 June 12-13 Nati onal Mari na Day at Fi shermen’s Vi l l age. Boat show, fishing clinics Mote Marine Display.

575-3000

what the guy told me, - but he said the caught some 7 footers and dragged them up in the surf along the beach.

Plenty of Grouper are offshore. They were biting before they came back into season this month.

The offshore bottom fishing has been good on the days you can get out, but there have been a lot heavy seas. Porgys, Key West grunts, mangrove and l ane snapper - I haven’t heard any yel l owtai l , but the offshore reefs are holding a lot of AJs. Fish a butterfly jig, the big chrome one, dropped striaght to the bottom.

waterlife@comcast.net

Our bait is guaranteed to catch fish or die trying!

at El Jobean

Full LIne of Tackle Supplies

Fishing RIGHT NOW:

This is The Time!

Trying to catch a runaway boat last month. The owner fell overboard and the boat went on without him! No one was hurt, the boat was saved

Bl ac k T i p B a i t & T ac kl e

Live Shrimp, Pinfish, Live Crabs

Fishing Do Not Stop!

941 - 625-2700

Send cal endar i nfo rmat i o n t o :

NOW OPEN

Go

2010

4265 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte

A nice bluefish (above) and 6 trout from Capt .Angel Torres

Pompano are starting to hit out on the beach, some guys are catching a goodly amount of them at Englewood Pier. There are also whi ti ng on the beach if you want to venture out.

Inshore, the backwater redfi sh in the Whidden Creek area is where some guys are catching over 20 fish a day with a lot of keeper ones. Some bigger reds in the 30-inch range are back there too.

I’ve had quite a few nice reports of trout but if you are catching dinks move around, try fishing down by Devilfish and Cayo Pleau. Guys are starting to catch a few snook here and there, the fish are coming around Cape Haze and the lower part of the West Wall. Guys haven’t been trying to catch snook, but snook are hitting the bait. There is quite a bit of S pani sh mackerel on the incoming tide and even a couple reports of smaller ‘snakey’ Ki ng mackerel that are starting to come up the coast. To the South, out of Boca Grande, down the beach, guys have caught a few kings trolling. Small sharks, bonnetheads, and bl ackti ps are out in the surf. Some bigger sharks - maybe sand sharks, I can’t remember

REDFISH: A few bigger fish starting to show around the ICW

April

(941) 627-0809

Open 7 days 6am - 7pm

April

2010

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

Page 23

April

www.WaterLIFEmagazine.com

2010

R ED U C ED

R ED U C ED

R ED U C ED

R ED U C ED

Page 24