Coastal Angler Magazine | December 2022 | Alabama Gulf Coast Edition

Page 1

FREE FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE COASTALANGLERMAG.COM VOLUME 27 • ISSUE 333 DECEMBER 2022
IG: @STEPH.FISHING @CAMTAMagazine LOCAL PHOTOS & FORECASTS HOLIDAY GIFTS FOR ANGLERS ALABAMA GULF COAST EDITION
PHOTO COURTESY OF STEPHANIE BONNER
Experience Home of world class fishing on the beautiful Watauga Lake, rugged Doe River and designated trophy trout stream, Watauga River PLAN YOUR TRIP AT TOURCARTERCOUNTY.COM Watauga River Watauga Lake Doe River
Protect your baby (and their toys) with coverage for shing gear and personal property too. 1 800 PROGRESSIVE / PROGRESSIVE.COM Progressive Casualty Insurance Co. & af liates. Additional charge may apply. Prices vary based on how you buy.
Shhhhh. No wake zone.

UpSwitzerland

A watch that revolutionized timekeeping at a price equally as radical.

In the history of timepieces, few moments are more important than the creation of the world’s first Piezo timepiece. First released to the public in 1969, the watch turned the entire industry on its head, ushering in a new era of timekeeping. It’s this legacy that we’re honoring with the Timemaster Watch, available only through Stauer at a price only we can offer.

Prior to Piezo watches, gravity-driven Swiss watches were the standard bearer of precision timekeeping. But all that changed when the first commercially available Piezo watch came onto the market.

The result of ten years of research and development by some of the world’s top engineers, they discovered that when you squeeze a certain type of crystal, it generates a tiny electric current. And, if you pass electricity through the crystal, it vibrates at a precise frequency–exactly 32,768 times each second. When it came on the market, the Piezo watch was the most dependable timepiece available, accurate to 0.2 seconds per day. Today, it’s still considered a spectacular advance in electrical engineering.

“[Piezo timepieces]...it would shake the Swiss watch industry to its very foundations.”

Foundation For Economic Education

With the Timemaster we’ve set one of the world’s most important mechanical advances inside a decidedly masculine case. A handsome prodigy in rich leather and gold-finished stainless steel. The simplicity of the watch’s case belies an ornately detailed dial, which reflects the prestige of this timepiece.

Call today to secure your own marvel of timekeeping history. Because we work directly with our own craftsman we’re able to offer the Timemaster at a fraction of the price that many Piezo watches cost. But a watch like this doesn’t come along every day. Call today before time runs out and they’re gone.

Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. Spend some time with this engineering masterpiece for one month. If you’re not convinced you got excellence for less, simply send it back within 30 days for a refund of the item price. But we’re betting this timekeeping pioneer is a keeper.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM DECEMBER 2022 NATIONAL 3
Stauer… Afford the Extraordinary ®
Meetthe WatchThat Shook
14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. TPW349-04 Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com Stauer ® Timemaster Piezo Watch $299* Offer Code Price Only $29 + S&P Save $270 Rating of A+ 1-800-333-2045 Your Insider Offer Code: TPW349-04 You must use the insider offer code to get our special price. *Discount is only for customers who use the offer code versus the listed original Stauer.com price. You must use the insider offer code to get our special price. TAKE 90% OFF INSTANTLY! When you use your INSIDER OFFER CODE • Precision Piezo electric movement • Stainless steel caseback and crown • Cotswold® mineral crystal • Crocodile embossed leather strap fits wrists 6 ½"–8 ½" • Date window display • Water resistant to 3 ATM [ Wear it today for only $29

EXPERIENCED ANGLERS WANTED!

Dear Angler,

Are you looking for a change in the New Year? We have plans to expand in 2023 and are seeking like-minded outdoor enthusiasts who share in our vision to bring our free publication to every town in America!

Do you want to work from home, be your own boss, and control your time and earnings? Then owning your own fishing magazine may be right for you!

Our ideal candidate for this unique business opportunity:

• Loves the Outdoors

• Loves Meeting People

• Has Prior Business Experience or at Least Three Years of Sales Experience

• Has Good Credit & Driver’s License

• Is a Self-Starter

If you or someone you know is looking for an opportunity to own their own home-based business and earn a living in the outdoor industry, please contact us at 321.777.2773 x 1 or email info@coastalanglermagazine.com.

Ask us if we have a franchise territory available near you! We have freshwater and saltwater franchise territories available throughout the US and abroad!

Tight lines, Ben Martin

Editor In Chief

Coastal Angler Magazine

The Angler Magazine

www.CoastalAnglerMag.com

TROUT TIPS FOR Wintertime

Trout like cold water, but there’s no denying the slow down that occurs on most wintertime trout fisheries. When water temps fall into the low 40s and below, insect life and other food sources are less prevalent. Trout metabolisms slow and they go into energy-conservation mode. They are content to hover near the bottom out of heavy current and feed only when an easy opportunity arises.

That said, fish still need to eat, and intrepid anglers will find joy in the seclusion of a wintertime trout stream. Here are some tips to raise the odds of a great wintertime trout trip. Dress warmly, wade carefully and savor the taste of the ice you suck from your rod guides.

1) Choose Destinations Wisely: Winter is not the time to explore high-elevation brook trout streams. Instead, float a tailwater, where water temps are consistent year-round, or go to lower elevation streams that are a bit warmer. For a target-rich environment, try out a delayed-harvest fishery. They are stocked heavily through the cooler months.

2) Fish Warm Spells: Two or three days of consistently warmer weather are primetime in terms of winter trout fishing. Everything in the stream, from the trout to the bugs and baitfish they eat, perks up.

By the same logic, the best bite is usually during the warmest part of the day. Sun warms the shallows, bringing out the tiny little midges, black stoneflies and blue-winged olives that are wintertime staples. Even if the action is subsurface, trout will take advantage of easy feeding opportunities.

3) Fish Meticulously: Unless trout are visibly rising, subsurface is the way to go. Turn your attention away from the riffles where rainbows pop dry flies in spring, and look to the deeper, slower runs. Pick them apart with nymph rigs. Keep in mind that most winter food items will be small, but fish a variety of sizes and patterns at the same time and cover every inch of each run vertically and horizontally. The idea is to hit a fish in the nose, and this is best achieved fishing slowly and carefully.

If you want to tempt a giant trout, it’s a good time to dead drift a big streamer with the same meticulous patience. Don’t hesitate to fish a heavy streamer deep under an indicator. Sometimes a big mouthful is enough to convince a lock-jawed bruiser to eat.

4) Fish Safely: Flooding your waders can kill you when it’s frigid. During cold snaps, consider fishing near the truck, where a quick jog can put you in a heated cab if you get wet. If you do go into the backcountry, take a dry-bag with fire-starting equipment, a towel and a change of clothes.

Wherever you fish, wade carefully, avoid stepping on frozen-over rocks, kick any snow off your boots before entering the water and avoid taking chances like wading deep water or heavy flows.

Nick Carter is the author of “Flyfisher’s Guide to North Carolina & Georgia.” Contact him at nsc8957@gmail.com.

4 NATIONAL DECEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

Berkeley County, South Carolina

Berkeley County is a wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts, sports buffs, adventure seekers, and water lovers. From exemplary fishing for striped bass, or a trophy largemouth bass, to our hiking trails and water activities, along with scenic outdoors where you can catch a glimpse of white tail deer and gators, Berkeley County has activities to fit all visitors and families. Learn more about Berkeley County at: exploreberkeleycounty.com

Experience History, Culture & Adventure Like No Other!
6 NATIONAL DECEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

Peacock Bass Luxury

Next stop Manaus, Brazil! It all started when my good friend Capt. Johnny Stabile called.

J: I know what you’re going to say before I even ask.

G: What is it?

J: Do you want to go Peacock fishing in Brazil?

G: When?

J: We would leave 13 days after our Alaska trip.

Of course, my response was, “Ok, sounds great!”

That would give me just enough time to get back from Alaska, fulfill orders for my business, and get things ready to head south. We flew out of Miami, and with a layover in Panama City, Panama met up with several other fishermen on the expedition. After a very long night of traveling, we finally landed in Brazil and hopped on a quick seaplane ride to the Rio Matupiri for six and a half days of non-stop fishing!

We stayed aboard the Amazon Legend with a very accommodating crew of 14. We ate like kings and fished hard. Our typical day of fishing consisted of getting up before the sun for a quick breakfast and loading into skiffs to spend the day zipping around to the guide’s best fishing spots. We threw a variety of lures, mostly topwaters like big choppers and walking baits. Johnny’s favorites of the trip were a Rebel Jumping Minnow and a Borboleta Woodstock 10.5 cm. He wore out the peacock bass on that Jumping Minnow. I threw bucktail jigs, and they produced the largest number of fish, but for Johnny it was all about the BIG’UNS!

Johnny loves to fly fish, so one special thing about fishing in Brazil for him was catching several nice fish on the fly rod with easy-to-tie flies that he made myself. These fish are so much more aggressive than the peacock bass you find in south Florida. For a little perspective, we caught more than 350 peacocks and more than 50 piranha along with several other exotic species. The average peacock was 2 to 3 pounds, and Johnny’s biggest weighed more than 8 pounds. One person in our party caught a big peacock that pulled the scales to nearly 14 pounds.

After a long morning of non-stop action, sometimes we would take a quick lunch break and hide in the shade of a tree for a wonderful shore lunch. The guides packed everything for remote meals on land, where they cooked native fare on an open fire. While they cooked, we relaxed in hammocks with

plenty of cold drinks and the opportunity for a quick nap before lunch was served. Many of the fish we caught contributed to these lunches, and there were also steaks and chicken available with all the fixins. Homemade salsa and native seasonings complimented the meals perfectly. After a relaxing lunch, it was back on the skiff and back in the action!

After afternoons of fishing, we indulged in fivestar dining and the most important part of the trip, air conditioning! The crew made up our rooms, did our laundry and prepared dinner every evening. Specialty cocktails were also provided, if that’s your fancy, but Johnny’s favorite was the freshly squeezed juices. He’s already looking forward to the passion fruit juice when we return next year!

Johnny shot some great video of our trip. Check it out in the December edition of The Angler Video Magazine

If you are interested in a Brazilian fishing adventure, e-mail Johnny at captain@ SFLFishingCharters.com or Gary at gary@purgeright.com.

By Capt. Johnny Stabile and Gary Turner

For as long as I can remember, offshore bottom fishing is what we look forward to during the last half of November and the entire month of December. The week of Christmas has always been considered the apex of the bottom-fishing year.

You can see the move of the big snappers marching offshore on the edge of the colder water. This will pile big snapper and other bottomdwelling species up on certain staging areas, along with a clean water temperature line that also stacks up the kings and wahoo. Keep a light line bait out while you’re bottom fishing. There is no telling what you’ll catch and on what baits.

Of course, I love a pinfish, grass grunts or sailors choice for grouper and snapper baits for more than one reason. 1) They get bites from the target species; and 2) they eliminate most of the trash bites from grunts, pinkies and sea bass.

Yes, I love a live bait on a jig, but don’t ever forget that a big grouper also loves a big chunk of cut bait. We have seen a huge uptick in amberjack and almaco jacks in the past few

years for some reason. This is an excellent bait source! I like to keep one of the first, smaller, amberjacks that come up just for this cut-bait option. The big chunks of cut bait do

of my bottom-fishing strategy. This is also the reason I take a couple boxes of squid on every trip. I start every new post-up on a ledge or live bottom area with everyone firing down whole squid every drop. I don’t care what they are catching. It’s usually grunts, pinkies or seabass, but what is really happening on the bottom is the squid are being ripped to shreds and small pieces are swirling around and creating a chum slick. After several volleys of whole squid, I change it up to live pinfish, grass grunts or other live baits on a jig.

Grouper and big snapper see the live bait as a smaller fish that was grabbed by a crab while feeding on small pieces of squid. It’s a winning technique that has been very successful for me and other Decoy Jig users for years now. It is also new to the fish, tackle-wise.

two things. They get bites and they also create a “chum slick” on the bottom right where you are fishing. When the cut bait gets pecked at, all the small pieces of flesh swirl around as it’s being eaten.

This is one of the most important aspects

The beauty of this cold water line moving farther offshore with every cold front creates opportunity for a variety of species. You never know; keep firing down cut bait and setting the hook on “strange feeling bites,” and you might even catch a big deep-water lobster like the one in the video below.

Check out some awesome bottom fishing videos at https://youtu.be/w1YmT6M0ObQ.

8 NATIONAL DECEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
DECEMBER CAN BE RED HOT www.MitziSkiffs.com • www.CHawkBoats.net TO FIND YOUR NEAREST DEALER, VISIT US ONLINE: 25’ C-Hawk CC .com www.
Tim Barefoot

Mud Flats

inter has arrived and the speckled trout fishing is definitely showing it! In this month’s article, we are going to discuss 3 areas you need to be fishing to target speckled trout this winter.

As the water temps continue to drop with every cold front, speckled trout are going to continue to push further up in to our creeks and rivers in search of warmth. The mud-layered bottom of these creeks is a good insulator of heat. The muddier and softer the bottom is the better the spot will be. A key area I look for when finding these spots are open bays or flats in close relation to creek or river channels.

Rocks

Another area that holds a lot of heat are rock banks. I particularly look to fish these areas on blue bird days where the sun is shining bright. These rocky areas are going to put off a lot of

heat from the sun and will provide a warmer area for speckled trout. The bigger the boulders the better the spot!

channels

Lastly, I like to look for deep channels in the 20 – 30 foot range. Speckled trout will gather in huge schools in deeper water. I prefer to fish these areas on gloomy days when there is more cloud coverage than sunshine. When mapping out and looking for these areas always try to focus your efforts in areas that hold a lot of underwater structure as this is where the baitfish will congregate and the speckled trout will not be far behind. Until next time, tight lines and good luck!

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM DECEMBER 2022 ALABAMA guLf C oAst 1 bait Live & Frozen 2 Locations 100 e 20th ave GuLF shores, aL 251-955-5550 sunday- saturday 5:30am-7pm 5901 battLeship pkwy, spanish Fort, aL 251-348-7319 open 7 days a week /hookedupangler PENN • Ra P ala • Fishbit E s • E NgE l CoolERs • miRR oR luRE • F ish gum W
Locating Winter Trophy
TrouT
You were born to do this Full Service Dive c enter Gulf Shores / Orange Beach DownunderDiveShop.com (251) 968-DIVE (3483)

Greetings from Orange Beach, Alabama. I'm writing my column while preparing to teach an upcoming Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessel (OUPV) or 6 Pack Captains License Class. My students will be working in a commercial capacity as fishing charter, parasailing, water taxi and general tour boat captains. So, what does it take to earn your captains license?

A captain's license is issued by the USCG and revolves around the type of usage, number of passengers, boating experience, and even the weight of the vessel. The USCG requires each OUPV student to pass four very challenging exams and complete a host of other requirements such as a comprehensive physical, drug testing, a background check, basic first aid certification and provide proof that they have the requisite days at sea (at least 360) to obtain their Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMC). The prospective captain must have a thorough understanding of the USCG Rules of the Nautical Road, Plotting, Navigation General and Deck Safety and must pass four separate exams which are all packed into the twoweek course. These prerequisites must all be met before submitting your application to the National Maritime Center for review and approval. In my opinion, the USCG does a great job ensuring that those desiring to obtain their MMC's are held to very high standards. As a Certified USCG Instructor and Assessor I truly enjoy being part of the solution, teaching both commercial and recreational boating education.

Captain Jack R. Sanzalone is a 30-year submarine veteran and licensed USCG Master Captain and Assessor with over 41 years of experience. He is the owner of The Captain School, Orange Beach, AL. If you would like to earn your captains license you can contact Captain Jack at: jack@boattutors.com or by visiting his website at www.boattutors.com

the tradition continues

Quality marine service for decades, Dog River Marina Complex and Middleton Marine has been a leader providing expert craftsmanship and a complete range of marine services in Mobile and Orange Beach. Our service personnel are proven to be outstanding at their craft. Located a few short miles from the Gulf, you will find that we are the marina for all of your boating needs.

Quality marine service for decades, Dog River Marina Complex and Middleton Marine has been a leader providing expert craftsmanship and a complete range of marine services in Mobile and Orange Beach. Our service personnel are proven to be outstanding at their craft. Located a few short miles from the Gulf, you will find that we are the marina for all of your boating needs.

2 ALABAMA guLf C oAst DECEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM 26754 Canal Road, Orange Beach, AL (251) 271.0166 Mon- Fri: 8-5 Sat: 8-3 MOBILE • 251.471.6949 NEW ORLEANS • 504.282.6800 ORANGE BEACH • 251.981.7223 CARRABELLE • 850.545.5300 www.amyachts.com HONESTY • INTEGRITY CUSTOMER SERVICE DIESEL ENGINE GENERATORS AND SYSTEMS REPAIRS Experienced On Most Major Engines, Gensets and Gears the tradition continues Quality marine service for decades, Dog River Marina Complex and Middleton Marine has been a leader providing expert craftsmanship and a complete range of marine services in Mobile and
Our service personnel are proven to be outstanding at their craft. Located a few short miles from the Gulf, you will find that we are the marina for all of your boating needs. • Electronic Repairs and Installation • • Indoor Painting Facility • 70-ton Travelift • • Propeller and Hull Work Fiberglass Repairs (outfitting) • 251.471.5449 www.DogRiverMarina.com HOSPITALITY • SERVICE • FACILITY Dog River Marina-REV2022-Final.indd 1 3/1/22 11:11 AM MOBILE • 251.471.6949 NEW ORLEANS • 504.282.6800 ORANGE BEACH • 251.981.7223 www.amyachts.com HONESTY • INTEGRITY CUSTOMER SERVICE
Orange Beach.
• Electronic Repairs and Installation • • Indoor Painting Facility • 70-ton Travelift • • Propeller and Hull Work Fiberglass Repairs (outfitting) • 251.471.5449 www.DogRiverMarina.com HOSPITALITY • SERVICE • FACILITY MOBILE • 251.478.4432 ORANGE BEACH • 251.981.7223 MOBILE • 251.471.6949 NEW ORLEANS • 504.282.6800 ORANGE BEACH • 251.981.7223 CARRABELLE • 850.545.5300 www.amyachts.com HONESTY • INTEGRITY CUSTOMER SERVICE
• Electronic Repairs and Installation • • Indoor Painting Facility • 70-ton Travelift • • Propeller and Hull Work Fiberglass Repairs (outfitting) • 251.471.5449 www.DogRiverMarina.com HOSPITALITY • SERVICE • FACILITY MOBILE • 251.478.4432 ORANGE BEACH • 251.981.7223 MOBILE • 251.471.6949 NEW ORLEANS • 504.282.6800 ORANGE BEACH • 251.981.7223 CARRABELLE • 850.545.5300 www.amyachts.com HONESTY • INTEGRITY CUSTOMER SERVICE DIESEL ENGINE GENERATORS AND SYSTEMS REPAIRS Experienced On Most Major Engines, Gensets and Gears the tradition continues Quality marine service for
of marine services
Our service
be
their
miles
you will
we
for all of your
needs. • Electronic Repairs and Installation • • Indoor Painting Facility • 70-ton Travelift • • Propeller and Hull Work Fiberglass Repairs (outfitting) • 251.471.5449 www.DogRiverMarina.com HOSPITALITY • SERVICE • FACILITY MOBILE • 251.478.4432 ORANGE BEACH • 251.981.7223 Dog River Marina-REV2022-Final.indd 1 3/1/22 11:11 AM MOBILE • 251.471.6949 NEW ORLEANS • 504.282.6800 ORANGE BEACH • 251.981.7223 CARRABELLE • 850.545.5300 www.amyachts.com HONESTY • INTEGRITY CUSTOMER SERVICE the tradition continues Quality marine service for decades, Dog River Marina Complex and Middleton Marine has been a leader providing expert craftsmanship and a complete range of marine services in Mobile and Orange Beach. Our service personnel are proven to be outstanding at their craft. Located a few short miles from the Gulf, you will find that we are the marina for all of your boating needs. • Electronic Repairs and Installation • • Indoor Painting Facility • 70-ton Travelift • • Propeller and Hull Work Fiberglass Repairs (outfitting) • 251.471.5449 www.DogRiverMarina.com HOSPITALITY • SERVICE • FACILITY MOBILE • 251.478.4432 ORANGE BEACH • 251.981.7223 MOBILE • 251.471.6949 NEW ORLEANS • 504.282.6800 ORANGE BEACH • 251.981.7223 CARRABELLE • 850.545.5300 www.amyachts.com HONESTY • INTEGRITY CUSTOMER SERVICE DIESEL ENGINE GENERATORS AND SYSTEMS REPAIRS Experienced On Most Major Engines, Gensets and Gears the tradition continues Quality marine service for decades, Dog River Marina Complex and Middleton Marine has been a leader providing expert craftsmanship and a complete range of marine services in Mobile and Orange Beach. Our service personnel are proven to be outstanding at their craft. Located a few short miles from the Gulf, you will find that we are the marina for all of your boating needs. • Electronic Repairs and Installation • • Indoor Painting Facility • 70-ton Travelift • • Propeller and Hull Work Fiberglass Repairs (outfitting) • 251.471.5449 www.DogRiverMarina.com HOSPITALITY • SERVICE • FACILITY MOBILE • 251.478.4432 ORANGE BEACH • 251.981.7223 Dog River Marina-REV2022-Final.indd 1 3/1/22 11:11 AM MOBILE • 251.471.6949 NEW ORLEANS • 504.282.6800 ORANGE BEACH • 251.981.7223 CARRABELLE • 850.545.5300 www.amyachts.com HONESTY • INTEGRITY CUSTOMER SERVICE DIESEL ENGINE GENERATORS AND SYSTEMS REPAIRS Experienced On Most Major Engines, Gensets and Gears the tradition continues Quality marine service for decades, Dog River Marina Complex and Middleton Marine has been a leader providing expert craftsmanship and a complete range of marine services in Mobile and Orange Beach. Our service personnel are proven to be outstanding at their craft. Located a few short miles from the Gulf, you will find that we are the marina for all of your boating needs. • Electronic Repairs and Installation • • Indoor Painting Facility • 70-ton Travelift • • Propeller and Hull Work Fiberglass Repairs (outfitting) • 251.471.5449 www.DogRiverMarina.com HOSPITALITY • SERVICE • FACILITY MOBILE • 251.478.4432 ORANGE BEACH • 251.981.7223 Dog River Marina-REV2022-Final.indd 1 3/1/22 11:11 AM
the tradition continues
decades, Dog River Marina Complex and Middleton Marine has been a leader providing expert craftsmanship and a complete range
in Mobile and Orange Beach.
personnel are proven to
outstanding at
craft. Located a few short
from the Gulf,
find that
are the marina
boating
What does it take to earn your USCG Captains License? LIVE and IN PERSON in gulf shores! oba oUPV CaPtains Class February 13th - 23rd oba UPgrade to Master February 24th - 26th oba assistanCe towing February 27th Call the CaPtain sChool! orange beach, al (941) 268 - 6622 The Center of Excellence For Maritime Training or Sign Up Online www.boattutors.com Veteran Owned Business by Captain Jack R. Sanzalone Serving Mississippi, Alabama and North Florida for over 10 years

Kitchen Delights

SEARED RED SNAPPER WITH SALSA VERDE RISOTTO

My good buddy, Captain James McCanless of Aquiline Custom Charters, LLC, invited me on a late season snapper fishing trip last week. Thanks to his Simrad sonar system, we were able to find some good structure that were home to plenty of red snapper! We dropped down dead pogey and squid to catch a quick limit! For my late season catch, I decided to go simple and pair seared filets with a warm, salsa verde risotto. This meal is absolutely perfect for a cool fall night!

IngreDIents:

NOWHIRING Outboard Motor Technicians

1. Add stock plus a cup of water to saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and keep warm.

2. Heat butter and oil in Dutch oven over medium heat. Add shallot and cook 4 mins until soft. Add garlic, mustard, anchovy, and capers; cook for a minute or until fragrant.

3. Add rice, stir to coat evenly with oil and cook 2-3 mins while stirring.

4. Add hot stock to rice, one ladle at a time. Stir in stock and allow it to absorb before adding more stock. Continue this process until the stock is gone and the rice can absorb no more liquid. The risotto will be creamy and thick. The grains of rice will be similar to pasta in texture.

5. When rice is done absorbing stock, stir in herbs and vinegar and season to taste. Keep warm.

6. Season snapper with Fishmonger Fisherman's Blend by Fire&Smoke.

7. Heat griddle to medium-high heat. Add filets and cook 2-3 mins per side.

8. Serve snapper over a bed of risotto along with a generous amount of lemon wedges and crusty bread.

DECEMBER 2022
4 cups chicken bone broth
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 shallots, minced
1 tbsp chopped fresh oregano
1/2 cup chopped flat leaf parsley
1 tbsp Dijon
mustard
4 anchovy filets, chopped
1/2 to 1 jar capers
1 tbsp white wine vinegar
1 1/2 cup Arborio rice
4 Snapper
filets
Lemon wedges for serving
Alabama

there’s nothing typical about us

Fishing hunting paddle sports

NOVEMBER 2021 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM trusted brands huge selection 2034 market street 228 - 769 - 6699 nelsonoutdoors.com 6 MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST NOVEMBER 2021

inDecember

December is upon us and that means the start of winter fishing. This fall has been a little less than normal for trout fishing on the causeway. That is no surprise after how much rain we had this summer. The water is not very clear and in the mid 60's. It should be getting cooler with each passing cold front. The trout fishing is slow and it looks like that is it for the year on the causeway.

As the muddy cool water moves south so are the specs and reds. Follow the clear water south and soon you will be in the gulf. Live shrimp have proved to be productive at the rigs. Artificial bait guys will find a soft plastic on a 3/8 oz jig head worked slowly on the bottom will also produce a some nice fish. I like a High Tide natural shrimp, but root beer/chartreuse, chartreuse/red, and white/chartreuse colors. In shallower water, I like to try a Mirrolure top dog, catch Jr. and glad shad.

Fishing for reds has also been ok in North Pass, Daphne, and the other cuts just south of the causeway. A live or dead shrimp on a carolina rig is a good bet as they move to the gulf. Soft plastics on jig heads are also productive. A 3/8 oz head with chartreuse or root beer are my two favorite colors. I also look for the tide to be low and still falling for the best timing in these ditches.

As winter closes in, I'll be headed for the gulf to chase the salty water. But for spec action, I'll look in the rivers that flow into the bay. Fish, Magnolia, Fowl, and Bon Secure are a good bet. Fish the banks for reds and toward the deeper part in the center for trout. A falling tide with slow working jig head on the bottom is usually productive. A 3/8 oz jig head to be sure you are on the bottom is my preference. A Mirrolure glad shad is another one of my favorite baits for winter trout.

Winter is on the way, so get ready to head for your winter time fishing holes. Get after the trout before they go to sleep for the winter.

designs, builds

destroyers for the U.S. Navy and National Security Cutters for the U.S. Coast Guard. Employing more than 11,300 employees, Ingalls is the largest manufactur ing employer in Mississippi and a major contributor to the economic growth of Alabama and Mississippi. As the larg est supplier of U.S. Navy surface combatants, Ingalls has built nearly 70 percent of the U.S. Navy fleet, and is the only shipyard simultaneously building 4 classes of ships.

6 ALABAMA guLf C oAst DECEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
jandsboatstorage@yahoo.com 17650 Julius Childress Dr, Robertsdale, AL, United States, Alabama Call today for a space! 251.424.3108 Boat Storage availaBle! buildyourcareer.com JOIN OUR TEAM Ingalls
Fishin'
Forecast by Capt Dan Kolenich 251-422-3474
Shipbuilding
and maintains amphib ious ships and
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM DECEMBER 2022 ALABAMA guLf C oAst 7 Your Complete Boat & RV Service Center
8 ALABAMA guLf C oAst DECEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM Follow us on Facebook to submit your photos in our Photo of the Month Contest! Photos of the Month Auto • truck trActor tires c/V Axels • BrAkes shocks • struts 7530 Moffet rd, MoBile, AlABAMA 36618 251-645-0505 MondAy- fridAy 8-5 A-1 Tire Store Feel Your Passion, Not The Ride Order You 2023 Model Now 228 - 731- 3955 www.KenCraftBoats.com www.CoastalMarineSales.com

The very best hunting knives possess a perfect balance of form and function. They’re carefully constructed from fine materials, but also have that little something extra to connect the owner with nature. If you’re on the hunt for a knife that combines impeccable craftsmanship with a sense of wonder, the $79 Huntsman Blade is the trophy you’re looking for.

The blade is full tang, meaning it doesn’t stop at the handle but extends to the length of the grip for the ultimate in strength. The blade is made from 420 surgical steel, famed for its sharpness and its resistance to corrosion.

The handle is made from genuine natural bone, and features decorative wood spacers and a hand-carved motif of two overlapping feathers— a reminder for you to respect and connect with the natural world.

This fusion of substance and style can garner a high price tag out in the marketplace. In fact, we found full tang, stainless steel blades with bone handles in excess of $2,000. Well, that won’t cut it around here. We have mastered the hunt for the best deal, and in turn pass the spoils on to our customers.

But we don’t stop there. While supplies last, we’ll include a pair of $99 8x21 power compact binoculars and a genuine leather sheath FREE when you purchase the Huntsman Blade.

Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. Feel the knife in your hands, wear it on your hip, inspect the impeccable craftsmanship. If you don’t feel like we cut you a fair deal, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the item price.

Limited Reserves. A deal like this won’t last long. We have only 1120 Huntsman Blades for this ad only. Don’t let this beauty slip through your fingers. Call today!



“This knife is beautiful!” — J., La Crescent, MN 

“The feel of this knife is unbelievable...this is an incredibly fine instrument.” — H., Arvada, CO

Stauer… Afford the Extraordinary . ® Full tang stainless steel blade with natural bone handle —now ONLY $79! BONUS! Call today and you’ll also receive this genuine leather sheath! 14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. HUK885-01 Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com Stauer ® *Discount is only for customers who use the offer code versus the listed original Stauer.com price. California residents please call 1-800-333-2045 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product. Rating of A+
to the Bone EXCLUSIVE FREE Stauer® 8x21 Compact Binoculars -a $99 valuewith purchase of Huntsman Blade Huntsman Blade $249* Offer Code Price Only $79 + S&P Save $170 1-800-333-2045 Your Insider Offer Code: HUK885-01 You must use the insider offer code to get our special price. • 12" overall length;
Stauer Clients
Bad
What
Our Knives

The question of lure size is o en pondered in the shing world. Di erent circumstance requires a di erent mentality, but one thing is for certain, the sh did not read any articles, attend any seminars or watch that YouTube video. ey eat what they want, when they want, but I have an approach that I nd useful in deciphering the riddle.

As winter approaches, it brings changes to our estuaries: cooler water temps, a change in the type and abundance of forage, less pressure from boaters, and in some areas, much better water clarity. ere are two trains of thought on lure size when it comes to winter shing in the bays. Should I go bigger or smaller? I know anglers who immediately upsize for the entire season, while others downsize for its duration.

Both can be e ective, but here is how I typically tackle early winter shing.

Cooling water temps and increasing frequency of cold fronts put the sh on both spectrums of the feeding attitude. Unlike more stable weather patterns, when sh are less a ected and feed more consistently, these fronts can make them, for a lack of a better term, moody.

Late fall and early winter can be some of the best inshore shing of the year. Schools of

bait ushed from the bays with the dropping tides are followed by hungry specks and reds. In these situations, I like to use a smaller lure. Generally, they feed on shrimp or smaller bait sh, and having a lure of similar size is a good idea. When they are following these schools, I like non-natural colors so the sh have something to key in on when bait is abundant. I like my lure’s color to stand out in the fall feeding frenzy.

Now, for the other end of the mood swing, the inactive period caused by post-frontal conditions. is is another situation when I favor smaller lures in early winter. When the bite is o , smaller o erings entice bites from non-aggressive sh. Using myself as an example, if I am not hungry, the chance of me driving to a restaurant for a steak dinner are slim, but I might grab a few peanuts for a quick bite just because they are on the counter.

e nal reason is clearer water. Some bays I sh will have 1 to 2 feet of clear-green water in the summer, but 6 to 7 feet of air-clear water in winter. ese sh are not accustomed to this transitional clarity. When I can see my lure bouncing in the sand in depths of 7 feet, a much smaller lure will produce more bites.

I hope these tips help you catch more sh this winter, and next month I will explain my transition to larger lures as we press deeper into winter’s grip.

10 NATIONAL DECEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
Big
Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures®, Controlled Descent Lures™, and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.
GO OR GO SMALL Inshore?
By Capt. Michael Okruhlik
904-701-9726 • GAUGESAVER.COM SPECIALIZING IN RESTORATION OF AGED, SUNBURNT, OR FADED LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAYS. WE SERVICE MORE THAN JUST GAUGES! CHART PLOTTERS, VHF’S, RADARS, SOUNDERS, AUTOPILOTS, JET SKI CLUSTERS, AND MUCH MORE. 5049 HIGHWAY 17 SOUTH, GREEN COVE SPRINGS, FL 32043 If your device has an LCD that has faded over time, or want to inquire about possible repair options for your unit, give us a call or visit our website!
Photo courtesy of Knockin Tail Lures

Centuries

ago, Persians, Tibetans and Mayans considered turquoise a gemstone of the heavens, believing the striking blue stones were sacred pieces of sky. Today, the rarest and most valuable turquoise is found in the American Southwest–– but the future of the blue beauty is unclear.

On a recent trip to Tucson, we spoke with fourth generation turquoise traders who explained that less than five percent of turquoise mined worldwide can be set into jewelry and only about twenty mines in the Southwest supply gem-quality turquoise. Once a thriving industry, many Southwest mines have run dry and are now closed.

We found a limited supply of turquoise from Arizona and purchased it for our Sedona Turquoise Collection . Inspired by the work of those ancient craftsmen and designed to showcase the exceptional blue stone, each stabilized vibrant cabochon features a unique, one-of-a-kind matrix surrounded in Bali metalwork. You could drop over $1,200 on a turquoise pendant, or you could secure 26 carats of genuine Arizona turquoise for just $99

days

don’t

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM *Special price only for customers using the offer code versus the price on Stauer.com without your offer code.
A. B.
Your
26 carats of genuine Arizona turquoise ONLY $99 C. Necklace enlarged to show luxurious color 14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. STC740-09, Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com Stauer ® Call now and mention the offer code to receive your collection. 1-800-333-2045 Offer Code STC740-09 You must use the offer code to get our special price. Rating of A+ Stauer… Afford the Extraordinary . ® Jewelry Speci cations: • Arizona turquoise • Silver- nished settings Sedona Turquoise Collection A. Pendant (26 cts) $299 * $99 +s&p Save $200 B. 18" Bali Naga woven sterling silver chain $149 +s&p C. 1 1/2" Earrings (10 ctw) $299 * $99 +s&p Save $200 Complete Set** $747 * $249 +s&p Save $498 **Complete set includes pendant, chain and earrings. Sacred Stone of the Southwest is on the Brink of Extinction
satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. If you aren’t completely happy with your purchase, send it back within 30
for a complete refund of the item price. The supply of Arizona turquoise is limited,
miss your chance to own the Southwest’s brilliant blue treasure. Call today!

MONSTER SMALLIE IS GREAT LAKES RECORD

Ohio Angler Gregg Gallagher caught a 10.15-pound smallmouth bass on Nov. 3 that once certi ed should be a new Lake Erie record. e 23 ¾-inch sh is also the largest bronzeback ever caught from the Great Lakes.

Gallagher told In-Fisherman his was the result of his son’s extensive time surveying bait and bottom structure. With sonar, they were able to do what some call video-game shing and target individual sh with drop shot rigs. He was shing 8-pound test.

“With an abundance of bait sh and unique bottom composition located a er long days behind the graphs, we dropped down our forward-facing sonar and we were able to individually target these pelagicesque smallmouth,” he told In-Fisherman. “On what turned out to be the most memorable cast of my life, my bait got hit before it even hit the bottom and my rod quickly doubled over. I honestly thought I had hooked into a sheephead and not a smallmouth. We quickly learned we had just caught the smallmouth of a lifetime.”

e monster smallmouth is the only certi ed 10-plus-pounder ever caught from the Great Lakes. It should beat out the Canadian record of 9.84 pounds, which was set 68 years ago. It is also heavier than the Ohio state record, which weighed 9 pounds, 8 ounces and was caught in 1993.

e world record smallmouth bass weighed 11 pounds, 15 ounces. It was caught from Tennessee’s Dale Hollow Lake in 1955.

12 NATIONAL DECEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
You raise the flags of the fish just caught to show you weren’t skunked.
FAMILY RUN IN HAWAII FOR 90 YEARS
Once onshore you can take it a step further showing your fellow anglers your catch of the day wearing “slippahs” from Scott Hawaii.
scotthawaii.com
Hanapa‘a - Marlin Hanapa‘a - Ahi

5 WINTERTIME FISHERIES

Instead of spending the next few months holed up inside, get yourself a good parka, nd a window of decent weather and go shing. Believe it or not, for some sheries winter o ers some of the best action of the year. Here are a few ideas to help you combat cabin fever.

1) Wintertime Wahoo:

is time of year, wahoo pile up around the Bahamas. Some of the largest sh of the year will show up over the next couple of months.

High-speed trolling is the technique that allows captains to cover lots of water along rocky ledges, color changes, temperature breaks and dropo s. ’Hoos hunt in packs, so multiple hook-ups and double-digit days are possible. is shery requires some forethought and perhaps some exibility. ey bite best around the full and new moons, but you’ll de nitely want to avoid fronts and those wicked north winds.

2) South Florida Sailfsh: From

December

through February

the Atlantic Coast of South Florida becomes one of the best sail sh destinations in the world. Release ags will be ying along the edge of the Gulf Stream from roughly Fort Pierce down through the Keys.

For this bite, you’ll want to sh when the weather’s a little rough. With strong winds from the north, tailing conditions push sail sh high in the water column to feed. ey surf the swells and it’s possible to sight sh for them, which is about as exciting as shing gets.

3) The Outer Banks: In winter, North Carolina’s Outer Banks are the destination for several migrations which bring excellent shing to the island chain from Oregon Inlet down past Ocracoke.

Out of Hatteras, it’s a short ride out to the edge of the Gulf Stream, and this time of year tuna congregate there to feast on a bounty of bait sh. Big blue n tuna 200 pounds and larger are on the prowl, and anglers can also do battle with black n, yellow n and bigeye tunas.

At the same time, big schools of striped bass will be marauding bait sh on the beaches and in the inlets. Surf anglers can encounter them blitzing menhaden by looking for bait and birds. Charter boats do good business this time of year trolling while keeping eyes peeled for stripers herding and crashing bait balls.

4) South Padre Island, Texas: Way down on the Mexican border, South Padre Island is as far south as you can go in Texas. e winters are mild and the shing is good year-round.

When water temps drop, snook pile into the canals and school up. ese schools of sh can be giant, and they are suckers for arti cials. At the same time, the grass ats experience the clearest water of the year. Red sh, big trout and black drum cruise the ats, where anglers can sight sh them in shin-deep water.

5) Delayed Harvest Trout: On the East Coast from Maryland down to Georgia, most states have developed robust delayed harvest trout sheries which keep y shers on the stream through the winter. ese specially regulated sheries are catch-and-release only through the cooler months and most of them have single-hook, arti cial-only regulations.

Most delayed harvest streams are heavily stocked, usually with some largerthan-normal hatchery sh. Since you can’t keep them, they stay in the creeks and rivers all winter long. Maryland, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia are some of the states with excellent delayed harvest programs. See the state wildlife agency websites for information.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM DECEMBER 2022 NATIONAL 13

TROUBLED ATLANTIC STRIPED BASS STOCKS TREND UPWARD

For the rst time in a while, sheries managers are reporting some good news about striped bass populations on the Atlantic Coast. In early November, e Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) accepted an updated 2022 stock assessment that looks good enough that no additional harvest cuts will be needed.

is stock assessment found that rock sh stocks are still over shed but they are not currently experiencing over shing. e female spawning biomass appears to have been on a modest upward trend for at least the last three years, but at an estimated 143 million pounds is still far below the 235-million-pound target for rebuilding.

Total mortality in 2021 from commercial and recreational shing was estimated at 0.14, which is below the mortality threshold of 0.20 as well as below the mortality target of 0.17.

What does this mean for anglers?

Currently, a reduction in catch is not needed, and the rebuilding program is on schedule to declare the striped bass stock rebuilt by 2029.

“ is 2022 assessment was the rst check-in point for progress toward stock rebuilding by 2029,” said Board Chair Marty Gary with the River Fisheries Commission. “It is extremely important shery removals and conduct regular stock assessments to keep evaluating rebuilding progress and stay on track.”

e next stock assessment update is scheduled for 2024, and the Board will review the 2022 removals as soon as the data are available to evaluate whether catch remains at sustainable levels.

The Return of a

For more information, visit www.asmfc.org.

14 NATIONAL DECEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
Custom Built Quality Outdoor BBQ Products Since 1989 For More Info 1-252-236-4464 www.BQGRILLS.com 6043 Hwy 301N, Elm City, NC Pig Cookers, Patio Grills, Smokers, Customized BBQ Trailers
NOAA Photo

PRAISE FOR STAUER BLUE TOPAZ

“Love at first sight! Without a doubtone of my favorite pieces from Stauer!”

– N. B., Mattapoisett, MA

Ooh and Ahh Without the Ouch

Spoil her (and your wallet) with sparkling Sky Blue Topaz for just $39

Going over the top on jewelry doesn’t have to mean going overboard on the cost. We’re in the business of oohs and ahhs without the ouch, which is why we can bring you a genuine sky blue topaz ring for a price that simply can’t be beat.

Sky blue topaz is aptly named, as its translucence and clarity is absolutely heavenly. If you are looking to mark a milestone or make any occasion special, the Sky Blue Topaz Ring is all you need.

is elegant ring features 2 1/2 carats of ethereal sky blue topaz in three perfectly-faceted cushion cut gemstones. And, the .925 sterling silver setting is nished in tarnish-resistant rhodium for added durability and superior shine.

You could spend nearly a $1,000 on a sterling silver ring set with a blue topaz stone. But, with Stauer in your corner, the sky’s the limit for a ording the extraordinary. Priced at just $39, you can treat her to the Sky Blue Topaz Ring set in .925 sterling silver and save your money and your love life all at the same time.

Satisfaction guaranteed or your money back. Indulge in the Sky Blue Topaz Ring for 30 days. If you aren’t perfectly happy, send it back for a full refund of the item price.

Limited Reserves. Don’t let this gorgeous ring slip through your ngers. Call today!

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM DECEMBER 2022 NATIONAL 15
Rating of A+ 14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. TTR199-01, Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com Stauer ® † Special price only for customers using the offer code versus the price on Stauer.com without your offer code. You must use the insider offer code to get our special price. 1-800-333-2045 Your Insider Offer Code: TTR199-01 Please use this code when you order to receive your special discount. Sky Blue Topaz Ring (3 ctw) $299† $39 +S&P Save $260 Stauer… Afford the Extraordinary . ® • ctw Sky Blue topaz • White zircon accents • 9 • Whole sizes 5-10 2 1/2 carats of Sky Blue Topaz in precious sterling silver ONLY $39 Save $260! “The blue topaz has both high clarity and a consistent, bright hue, making it ideal for custom cutting.” — Gemological
of America’s Gem Encyclopedia
Institute
Xpress • Alweld • stingrAy • VerAndA • Quest AndAlusiA MArine & powersports inc. (334) 427-1428 www.facebook.com/andalusiamarine All kinds of parts and accessories in stock and ready for delivery! Innertubes • Ski’s • Wakeboards Ropes • Life jackets Solas and Michigan Wheel Props GreAt service! • Humminbird • Garmin • Lowrance • Minnkota - authorized sales and service center • Rhodan • Certifed Full Line Yamaha Dealer 1707 River Falls Street, Andalusia, AL 36421 www.andalusiamarine.com Headquarters For All your Boating needs certified full line YAmAhA deAler!
Now With Matching Abalone Hummingbird Earrings Natural Abalone Shell ORDER NOW TOLL FREE 24/7 ON: 1-800 733 8463 QUOTE PROMO CODE: CA2KHB Or order online at timepiecesusa.com/ca2khb and enter promo code: CA2KHB PAY BY CHECK: Timepieces International Inc, 10701 NW 140th Street, Suite 1, Hialeah Gardens, Florida, 33018 The hummingbird is a traditional symbol of love and beauty. Suspended in mid-flight with a rainbow of iridescence in wave-like patterns, outstanding shimmering Abalone decorates her body and wing. Each unique, one-of-a-kind piece of Abalone shell has been molded into a sterling silver pendant. Traditionally, Abalone shell is believed to induce feelings of calm, compassion and love. It has a tranquil, warm and gentle cosmic vibration. Spiritually uplifting, Abalone is said to soothe the nerves, encourage serenity and bestow a feeling of inner peace. Originally priced at $249, this stunning piece of jewelry can be yours today for just $79 with promo code: CA2KHB Take flight WITH this dazzling delight Original Price Without Code $249 - With Promo Code Now Only $79 Abalone Hummingbird Pendant $79 plus S&H Abalone Hummingbird Earrings $79 plus S&H Abalone Hummingbird Collection Now Only $149 plus S&H Graceful Hummingbird Design Solid 925 Sterling Silver Abalone Mother of Pearl Complimentary 22” Chain 1.57” Length Abalone Hummingbird Pendant & Earrings Collection

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.