The Angler Magazine - September / Charlotte

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CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT, NC EDITION

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Best of ICAST

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Local

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Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events

Demystified VOLUME 23 • ISSUE 283

F R A N C H I S E

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BOOST YOUR CATCH w/RezBoostTM Technology

Interested in getting the most out of your own trusted transducer, or not sure you’re ready for the expense of installing a new CHIRP transducer? Furuno has a solution that will get the very best performance from your traditional narrowband transducer.

Our RezBoostTM Fish Finders deliver clearer images than ever before, we’re talking up to 8x sharper. Whether it’s NavNet TZtouch2 or the FCV588/FCV628 stand-alone Fish Finders, RezBoostTM will boost your catch!

Get up to 8x sharper resolution, using a standard narrow band transducer, to more clearly define fish targets.

Assess individual fish size and depth based on echo strength for fish from 4 inches to over 6 feet.

Identify the sea floor composition from four types (Rocks/Sand/Gravel/Mud).

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THE LIGHTEST PENN REEL EVER MADE The Lightest PENN Reel Ever Made. The all new Conflict II matches an extremely light weight design with PENN’s legendary durability. Featuring our RR30 body, CNC Gear Technology and HT-100 Drag system, the Conflict II is the ultimate inshore reel.

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© 2018 PENN is a registered trademark of Pure Fishing, Inc.

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EDITOR IN CHIEF : Ben Martin • camads@coastalanglermagazine.com COO : Tracy Patterson • tracy@coastalanglermagazine.com ART DIRECTOR : Rebecca Snowden • graphics@coastalanglermagazine.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR : Nick Carter • editorial@coastalanglermagazine.com WEBMASTER : Nick Barna • webmaster@coastalanglermagazine.comw ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: Corporate Headquarters info@coastalanglermagazine.com • 888-800-9794

FRANCHISE DIRECTORY FLORIDA BIG BEND : Mike McNamara • (850) 510-7919 • captmike@coastalanglermagazine.com BREVARD : Chris Milner • (321) 631-1001 • cmilner@coastalanglermagazine.com DAYTONA/NEW SMYRNA/DELAND : Amy Chibbaro • (386) 478-3812 • achibbaro@coastalanglermagazine.com Chris Chibbaro • (386) 478-9234 • cchibbaro@coastalanglermagazine.com FLORIDA KEYS : Cliff Lumpkin • (305) 849-9093 • cliff@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT LAUDERDALE : Gene Dyer • (954) 680-3900 • gene@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT MYERS : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER ORLANDO : Phillip & Giselle Wolf • (407) 790-9515 • phillip@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER MIAMI : Gene Dyer • (954) 680-3900 • gene@coastalanglermagazine.com LAKELAND & SUMTER : Mary Brasher • (352) 598-4219 • maryf@coastalanglermagazine.com NAPLES : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com NC FLORIDA/NATURE COAST : Cary & Lynn Crutchfield • (352) 372-4237 • crutch@coastalanglermagazine.com NE FLORIDA : Danny Patrick • (904) 742-4696 • danny@coastalanglermagazine.com PANAMA CITY/FORGOTTEN COAST : Randy Cnota • (229) 834-7880 • randyc@coastalanglermagazine.com PALM BEACH COUNTY : Barbara Ryan • (561) 373-8040 • barbara@coastalanglermagazine.com SARASOTA : Phil Prevoir • (239) 257-4684 • pprevoir@coastalanglermagazine.com TAMPA BAY : Chuck Atkins • (239) 464-5153 • chuck@coastalanglermagazine.com TREASURE COAST : Misti & Gary Guertin • (772) 285-6850 • treasurecoast@coastalanglermagazine.com flahama@coastalanglermagazine.com

SOUTHEAST ATLANTA : Bob & Brenda Rice • (706) 614-8231 • bobr@theanglermagazine.com CHARLESTON : Sam Buckareff • (843) 607-8629 • sam@coastalanglermagazine.com CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT : Doug Simmons • (704) 361-6189 • simmons@theanglermagazine.com Juli Simmons • (980) 333-7273 • simmons@theanglermagazine.com COLUMBIA/MIDLANDS : John Lux • (803) 807-6885 • jlux@theanglermagazine.com MYRTLE BEACH : Mike Masiero • (732) 674-3019 • mmasiero@coastalanglermagazine.com TIDEWATER/OUTER BANKS : John Tiger • (757) 707-9654 • john.tiger@coastalanglermagazine.com Laura Tiger • (757) 707-9655 • laura@coastalanglermagazine.com WESTERN NC : Debra & Joe Woody • (828) 775-9663 • woody@theanglermagazine.com

NORTHEAST BOSTON : George Regan • (617) 488-2842 • boston@coastalanglermagazine.com LONG ISLAND : Lisa & Michael Danforth • (203) 321-7635 • lisad@coastalanglermagazine.com CONNECTICUT/RHODE ISLAND : Lisa & Michael Danforth • (203) 321-7635 lisad@coastalanglermagazine.com

GULF COAST MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST : Adam Nelson • (228) 627-5903 • anelson@coastalanglermagazine.com Toby Nelson • (228) 623-1761 • tnelson@coastalanglermagazine.com ALABAMA/PENSACOLA : Paul Caruso • (239) 980-7738 • paul@coastalanglermagazine.com

GREAT LAKES WEST MICHIGAN : Phil Belsito • (616) 957-1714 • phil@theanglermagazine.com

INTERNATIONAL PUERTO RICO/VIRGIN ISLANDS : Ace Bassue • (407) 285-9453 • ace@coastalanglermagazine.com COSTA RICA : Mike Erickson • (561) 262-2242 • mike@coastalanglermagazine.com © 2018. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.

Disclaimer: Coastal Angler Magazine / The Angler Magazine will not be held liable for injuries incurred while partaking in activities described herein, or for claims made against products or services provided by advertisers.

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REPOWER FINANCE Six Years of Protection at no extra charge on all new outboards 25 to 350 HP.

Instant Savings of up to $800 on select models.

See your dealer for details.

Rates as low as 5.99% on new Suzuki outboards on approved credit.*

For a limited time, get Suzuki Extended Protection, Instant Savings and attractive financing on select Suzuki outboards from 25 to 350 horspower. See your participating Suzuki Marine dealer for details or visit www.suzukimarine.com.

Gimme Six Extended Protection promo is applicable to new Suzuki Outboard Motors from 25 to 350 HP in inventory which are sold and delivered to buyer between 07/01/18 and 09/30/18 in accordance with the promotion by a Participating Authorized Suzuki Marine dealer in the continental US and Alaska to a purchasing customer who resides in the continental US or Alaska. Customer should expect to receive an acknowledgement letter and full copy of contract including terms, conditions and wallet card from Suzuki Extended Protection within 90 days of purchase. If an acknowledgement letter is not received in time period stated, contact Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. – Marine Marketing via email: marinepromo@suz.com. The Gimme Six Promotion is available for pleasure use only, and is not redeemable for cash. Instant Savings apply to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki Outboard Motors made between 07/01/18 and 09/30/18. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine.com. Instant Savings must be applied against the agreed-upon selling price of the outboard motor and reflected in the bill of sale. (Suzuki will, in turn, credit Dealer’s parts account.)

There are no model substitutions, benefit substitutions, rain checks, or extensions. Suzuki reserves the right to change or cancel these promotions at any time without notice or obligation. * Financing offers available through Synchrony Retail Finance. As low as 5.99% APR financing for 60 months on new and unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors. Subject to credit approval. Not all buyers will qualify.

Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. $19.99/month per $1,000 financed for 60 months is based on 5.99% APR. Hypothetical figures used in calculation; your actual monthly payment may differ based on financing terms, credit tier qualification, accessories or other factors such as down payment and fees. Offer effective on new, unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors purchased from a participating authorized Suzuki dealer between 07/01/18 and 09/30/18. “Gimme Six”, the Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2018 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.

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The Rise of Patrick Sebile and his Band of Anglers

By Ben Martin, Editor In Chief

F

or those who are familiar with legendary angler and lure inventor Patrick Sebile, it comes as no surprise that he would once again enter the realm of lure and fishing tackle manufacturing and development. A review of his contributions, influence and participation in the world of fishing is a testament to this man’s unmatched devotion and passionate dedication to every element of the sport.

A brief review of the Patrick Sebile bona fides: • Holder of nearly 370 records (IGFA, EFSA & FFPM), such as largemouth bass world record by length, but also guided for more than 200 record catches like the All Tackle IGFA tarpon of 286 pounds, 9 ounces.

• Top 10 all time biggest fish ever caught.

• Voted one of the 10 best anglers in the world several times.

• Once voted the world’s best saltwater captain.

• Travelled and fished 64 countries to date.

• Image/photo on more than 190 magazine covers.

• Ranked No. 2 in IGFA’s “most species caught” with 774 different species.

• Published in more than 800 magazines, newspapers and journals.

• Inventor of more than 200 lures, rods, hooks, reels and various fishing tackle.

• Author of seven books.

With this extraordinary industry involvement and a lifetime of a passionate love for all aspects of fishing, it seems only natural and appropriate that Mr. Sebile would reunite with the fishing industry under the banner of A Band of Anglers.

Welcome back, Patrick. Yes, your new lures are remarkable… as are you.

KEEP IT GENUINE PRECISION PROTECTION Whether you take your boat out to the lake or the ocean, your 4-stroke outboard needs ECSTAR Suzuki Semi-Synthetic Engine Oil so it can run long and strong.

ECSTAR features special additives that protect the engine in harsh salt and fresh water environments, advanced detergents that keep engine parts clean, and viscosity index improvements that help the engine start in cold conditions.

No matter where your next boat ride takes you, go confidently with ECSTAR.

RUN LONG. RUN CLEAN. RUN STRONG.

Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-Approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. Suzuki, the Suzuki “S” ECSTAR and Suzuki model and product names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. © 2018 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.

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For over a century, a league of canned crusaders have been fighting to keep boats safe from barnacles, slime, algae and other aquatic evils that rob your boat of its true performance. With advanced know-how and unique capabilities, each antifouling is tailored to different conditions, and has the power to defeat fouling in all its forms.

Micron® WA is a water-based formula that’s powered with advanced Water Activated Matrix technology to efficiently release active ingredients over time for valiant multi-season protection. Micron® WA is easy to apply and clean up, making it ideal for boaters in all waters and regions.

For super-powered antifouling protection and proven performance, choose Interlux®.

The hero your boat deserves!

All trademarks mentioned are owned by, or licensed to, the AkzoNobel group of companies. © AkzoNobel 2018.

interlux.com

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Coastal Angler & The Angler Magazine’s Best Of

I eScope noptix Liv a P in m r a G T 2018 w At ICAS o h S f O t s Wins Be

CAST is the world’s largest fishing trade show. Each year one of the highlights of the show is the New Product Showcase, in which companies roll out their newest and best. Coastal Angler and The Angler were there at Orlando’s Orange County Convention Center in July, sifting through all the offerings of the ICAST New Product Showcase.

The following are ICAST winners as well as the new products we feel are some of the most innovative, functional and… frankly impressive, offerings of the year.

ICAST 2018 OVERALL Best OF SHOW AWARD Garmin Panoptix Livescope

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or anglers, sonar technology is the most rapidly advancing and functional tool in the boat when it comes to catching more and better fish. At the Orlando ICAST in July, Garmin blew the lid off the electronics industry with the introduction of its new Panoptix LiveScope.

At the world’s largest sportfishing trade show, the most anticipated event each year is the New Product Showcase, in which companies present their latest and greatest in hopes of being named Best of Category. Awards are decided by a vote of media in attendance, and the Panoptix Livescope was not only awarded “Best Electonics,” it was named “Best of Show” out of 974 new products introduced in 2018.

“To not only win the ICAST Best Electronics award, but the Best of Show award, too—it’s an honor we’re incredibly proud of,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of global consumer sales.

“Panoptix LiveScope delivers the best of both scanning and live sonar technologies, and there’s nothing out there even close to it. These awards solidify our commitment to giving anglers and mariners the most innovative technology on the water, and they further strengthen our desire to be the top marine electronics brand in the world.”

Panoptix LiveScope is a live-scanning sonar that gives anglers higher resolution and easier-to-interpret images of structure, bait and fish swimming below and around the boat than ever before. Garmin’s revolutionary Panoptix all-seeing sonar technology was the first to deliver live sonar images in real-time—forwards, backwards, sideways and below the boat—even while stationary. Now, thanks to the active scanning capabilities of Panoptix LiveScope, anglers can see images and movement so clear and precise that it’s even possible to distinguish between species of fish.

“Panoptix changed the electronics game a couple of years ago,” said Jason Christie, Bassmaster Elite Series and Garmin pro. “Now, LiveScope is even taking it to the next level. The cool thing about it is the simplicity of it. What you see is what is there. The only picture that could be better is if you dive into the water with goggles, and I’m not sure that’s really even better.”

Like other Garmin Panoptix transducers, LiveScope features two modes in one transducer—LiveScope Down and LiveScope Forward— and can be installed on a trolling motor or the transom. Depending on

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the angler’s fishing preferences and techniques, LiveScope can easily be adjusted to change views. Point the LiveScope transducer down to see directly below the boat or forward to see around the boat. Either view provides incredibly sharp, real-time scanning sonar images up to 200 feet out, even when the boat is stationary.

The Panoptix LiveScope system includes a compact GLS 10 sonar black box with an LVS32 transducer and a simple plug-and-play Garmin Marine Network connector for easy installation and integration with a compatible Garmin chartplotter. A trolling motor barrel and shaft mounting kit and a transom mounting kit are also included.

www.GARMIN.com/PANOPTIX Best Tackle Management Lure Lock Lure Locker

A patented gel material paved the way for one of the most innovative tackle management solutions on the market. Lure Lock’s Lure Locker was awarded “Best Tackle Management” at ICAST 2018.

Lure Lock’s proprietary ELASTAK GEL securely holds lures and terminal tackle in place. Even with the lid of a Lure Lock case open, you can turn it upside down and shake it and your lures stay in the box. Don’t believe it? Go to the website and watch the videos.

The Lure Locker was designed to allow anglers to keep all their Lure Lock cases organized and ready. Constructed with durable ABS plastic, the Lure Locker securely stores up to five Lure Lock cases for ease of transport. It is available in three models, each designed to accept its corresponding Lure Lock case.

The Lure Locker is also designed to hang on a wall or pegboard when not in use.

The Lure Locker will be available at www.lurelock.com, Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s, Academy, Sportsman’s Warehouse, Scheel’s, Mill’s Fleet Farm, Field & Stream, Tackle Warehouse, Tackle Direct and independent sporting goods dealers.

Different Lure Locker models have an MSRP range from $24.99 to $34.99.

www.lurelock.com

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Best Saltwater Lure Ocean Born Flying Series Ocean Born Lures has come out with two new hardbaits destined to become go-to lures for anglers who love fooling saltwater fish with artificials. What else would you expect from the brainchild of awardwinning tackle designer Patrick Sebile and his company A Band Of Anglers?

The Flying Pencill 160 and the Flying Popper 140 were designed to dramatically increase casting distance while also improving action. Each model features design elements that allow them to slice through the air to reach fish other lures can’t. Once they splash down, these lures are incredibly versatile.

The Flying Pencill 160 has a common body shape but uncommon castability and action. Side wings enhance aerodynamics and provide lift once in the water. Reduced air friction ribs, which work like dimples

Best SUP Body Glove Mariner Need an SUP designed specifically for fishing? Want one that’s completely portable, allowing you to launch wherever there’s access to water? The Body Glove Mariner is a groundbreaking fishing-specific inflatable standup paddleboard that caters to both casual fishing enthusiasts and hardcore anglers.

Designed by paddling champion and recreational fisherman Luke Hopkins, this feature-rich board is the ideal paddling platform for the active angler. From the backwaters to the bays, it will stealthily take you where you need to go, which is where most other anglers can’t go. Once you get there, the Mariner is a perfect fishing platform.

on a golf ball, reduce air resistance and add water turbulence. An angler can pop, spit, walk the dog, surface skip or slow swim below the surface with the Flying Pencill.

The Flying Popper 140 is a leap forward in design for the classic narrow-neck popper. It’s perfect for all conditions, including rough water and current. It utilizes the same side wings and ribs as the Flying Pencill for the same performance enhancements during cast and retrieve. It can pop, spit, walk or create a bubble trail, and comes in Floating, Sinking and Super Long Distance models.

Both the Flying Pencil and the Flying Popper come in eight fishcatching colors. With extreme castability and nearly unlimited versatility, these two lures are a game-changer for saltwater lures.

www.abandofanglers.com The Mariner is durable, stable, convenient to transport and can be customized to suit your fishing preferences.

It features attachment points to add any one of over 70 Railblaza fishing accessories, including rod holders.

The Mariner includes an anchor line guide system, cooler tie-downs, permanent, unbreakable fins and a patented multi-purpose handle to hold a water bottle or the included adjustable 3-piece paddle. The Mariner comes with a cell phone dry bag, a pump, an ankle leash and a wheeled backpack.

www.bodyglove.com

Best Affordable Saltwater Rods Enigma Rods With a trio of high-performing and affordable new saltwater rods, Enigma is bringing the performance and durability of its freshwater rods to the salt. With the Flats Master, Jetty Master and Saltwater Performance Series, Enigma has built rods to tangle with everything from inshore trout and snook to monsters hiding in the surf.

Flats Master rods retail for just $99.99 and are available in six spinning models designed to tackle snook, redfish and trout with quality design, cutting-edge technology, and top-grade saltwater components.

Lightweight and durable, select Flats Master rods feature a gimbal butt.

Jetty Master rods are ideal for anglers who fish in extreme

Best Spinning Reel PENN Spinfisher VI The PENN Spinfisher is more than 50 years old and still going strong. The latest version introduced this year, the Spinfisher VI, is more durable, even better sealed from water and features the CNC Gear system to handle the heaviest of loads. It’s available in array of models, one of which is perfectly suited to the fishing you do.

Updated with IPX5 sealing, the Spinfisher VI keeps saltwater out of the gearbox and drag system. Whether it gets hit by a wave or rides in the spray all the way home, there’s no need to worry.

Best Fishing Line PowerPro Super8Slick V2 Re-engineered with added abrasion toughness, the new PowerPro Super8Slick V2 braided fishing line combines a new eight-end dense weave fiber construction with proven ‘Enhanced Body Technology’ (EBT) process. The new braid is offered in nine different pound test designations.

As with the original Super8Slick braid, the new ‘V2’ version is the smoothest, softest and longest-casting braid in the PowerPro line. Its use of Honeywell Spectra fiber provides a stronger, tougher braid, while the PowerPro EBT process makes the Super8Slick V2 structurally rounder.

The process floods propriety resin through the finished braid, resulting

conditions, with big surf and big jigs. This collection of rods leverages the latest in design and technology to provide extraordinary performance not available anywhere else for $149.99. Designed for maximum casting distance and superior fishfighting performance, it is the meeting point of value and functionality.

Saltwater Performance Series (SPS) rods are designed for extreme pounding of sand, surf and salt. They provide a pinnacle of performance for an affordable price of $179.99. SPS rods are designed to provide incredible casting distance along with exceptional performance for anglers seeking the best quality rod and the best price point.

www.EnigmaFishing.com

Housed within a fully sealed spool, PENN’s HT-100 drag washers supply the stopping power needed for big saltwater fish. A full metal body and sideplate keep the CNC Gear System in precise alignment under heavy loads.

Available in standard, Live Liner, Long Cast and bail-less models, the Spinfisher VI has all the durability and performance anglers have come to expect from PENN, only better.

www.pennfishing.com in a smoother line that reduces backlashes, increases casting distance, makes it easier to tie knots, and offers superior strength to size ratio. Super8Slick V2 is extremely silent as it passes over the rod guides.

With multiple color options in nine line tests, from 8-lb. to 80-lb., Super8Slick V2 braid offers superior performance for all anglers, in fresh or salt. It is available in 100, 150- and 300-yards spools and 1500- and 3000-yard bulk filler spools.

www.PowerPro.com

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Best Boat Seat Llebroc Industries Series 2 Helm Chair ICAST had a lot of newcomers as well as industry leaders. Among the leaders is Llebroc Industries.

Greg Carman and his team have created the highest quality seats, benches and other boating accessories throughout the marine industry. Anyone who has ever sat in a Llebroc chair can attest to the quality and comfort that goes into every product.

Llebroc Series 2 Helm Chairs come with an array of options. Whether you are in a cabin or riding in a center console, your chair will withstand the elements and keep your ride comfortable. Depending on how you drive, you can sit in style or lean in comfort with the Flip Bolster

option. Just raise your seat and lean back into a secure rest.

Comfort is not the only benefit Llebroc has to offer.

Customize your seats to match your boat with a wide array of color options. Choose the style of stitching, materials, or embroidery for your home away from home. From start to finish Llebroc ensures your seats are specifically tailored to suit your needs. Once you choose Llebroc Industries, you will never look back.

www.llebroc.com

Best Tackle TRANSPORT

Plano’s new A-Series 2.0 fish contained but at your fingertips with oversized, Tackle Bag is as functional as it is molded zippers. The bag also sports a large exterior good looking. mesh pocket.

With four 3650 Stowaway boxes, it is the ideal Soft corners and a padded shoulder strap make the bag for a day on the stream or paddling to a secret bag comfortable to carry at your side while wading or fishing location. The boxes act as separate storage hiking. The strap is removable, adding more options devices to hold the basics or hand-picked tackle for for stowing, while the 1.5-inch heavy-duty molded a day on the water. hardware improves ergonomics while dramatically The main compartment is easily accessed improving strength. with an adjustable metal snap closure. The top The Plano A-Series offers complete storage compartment of the bag is expandable, allowing solutions for the serious angler. The A-Series includes extra capacity for raingear, other soft-side tackle classically styled bags in a backpack, duffel, and three bags and a quick shore lunch. Side and front tackle bag options. compartments hold the tools you’ll need when you land a www.planomolding.com

Plano A-Series 2.0 Tackle Bag

Best Lure System

Odin Lure Company Frigg Popper/Fish Smack Odin Lure Company’s novel approach appeals to all of a fish’s senses. They’ve equipped productive lures with a BaitWell that holds a powerful scent attractant called Fish Smack.

The Frigg 1.5-oz. Floating Top-Water Popper walks seductively across glassy water to bring home the bacon with the addition of Fish Smack. Inject Fish Smack into the integral BaitWell and ring the dinner bell for your targeted species. You will call in stripers, pike, mahi-mahi and more. Like your favorite BFF, work this in the mornings and evenings, when it’s dead quiet. Built like a brick outhouse with super strong VMC hooks and Wolverine triple wrap snap rings, this lure will handle big trophy fish muscle and speed.

• 5.5” long X 1” thick body.

• Cupped face churns a ton of water.

• Incredible walking, popping action.

• Has an integrated rechargeable BaitWell.

• Houses a fish attracting rattle chamber.

• Leaves an irresistible Fish Smack scent trail.

Odin Lure Company partnered with BioEdge Fishing Products to make Fish Smack attractant. It’s the perfect mixture, designed for the BaitWell on all Odin lures. The grease-like mix slowly releases scent as the lure is retrieved. Fish Smack attracts fish from afar and stimulates them to feed. It also masks undesirable scents like gas and sunscreen.

www.odinlures.com

Best Kids’ Apparel

Local Boy Sharpe Angler Dress Shirt Your little fishing buddy will look as sharp as he is comfortable, whether it’s on the deck of the boat, attending church, school or a weekend play date. Local Boy’s Sharpe Angler Dress Shirt is the go-to youth shirt for fall.

This button-down dress shirt is truly fit for any occasion. Crafted from 100 percent lightweight cotton material and featuring a fishing-style vent back, the Sharpe Angler shirt offers breathable, allday comfort that’ll keep Little Locals feeling cool,

while still looking sharp.

If it gets warm, Little Locals can roll up their sleeves with the side-button roll-cuffs, providing versatility in style and wear as the seasons change.

Accented with the embroidered dog-and-moon logo, the Sharpe Angler Dress Shirt is available in two plaid patterns: Green/Blue/White and Blue/Mango/ White. Sizes start at Youth X-Small (4T) up to Youth X-Large.

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Best Cutlery Outdoor Edge ReelFlex Pak Outdoor Edge’s new ReelFlex Pak is the ultimate fillet knife kit for the serious fisherman.

The kit includes three fillet knives, in 6-, 7.5- and 9.5-inch blade lengths so you have the right knife to match your catch. Designed to meet the cutting demands for all fresh and saltwater species, the knives are crafted from German 4116 stainless steel, known for its corrosion resistance and excellent edge retention. The blades are double tempered to provide a consistent flex and taper, ground to eliminate friction and promote an effortless cut while filleting fish.

The handles incorporate Jerry Hossom’s iconic design and ergonomics with the safety and function fishermen need. The handles are constructed of blue rubberized TPR to ensure a comfortable, non-slip grip, even when your hands are wet and slimy and also feature a polypropylene core for the

Best Eyewear Unsinkable Polarized Rival Sunglasses

correct amount of rigidity.

Everyone hates a dull knife, so Outdoor Edge has included a two-stage knife sharpener to keep your edges razor sharp. Finally, Outdoor Edge designed a durable hard-side carry case to keep you organized on the boat and at the dock. With an MSRP of $64.95, be sure to look for the ReelFlex Pak this fall and holiday season.

www.outdooredge.com

The featured Rival sunglasses are in Raven color with a ColorBlast Grey Lens. These are perfect for spending long days on the water because of their larger fit and full-wrap coverage. The ColorBlast polarized lens technology filters blue light, which makes colors blast. Rivals retail for about $139.

For more details on all styles, colors, and technology, visit the Unsinkable Polarized website.

Unsinkable Polarized had a groundbreaking, and perhaps a little crazy, idea. Because they are so confident in their products being the ultimate watersports sunglasses, they offer them with a Lifetime + Loss Warranty.

With floating frames, all polarized lenses and that warranty, there should be nothing stopping anyone from getting a pair of Unsinkable Polarized sunglasses.

Unsinkable developed a naturally buoyant frame material known as Vaporlite. It floats, it’s 20 percent lighter than what most sunglasses are made of, yet the frames retain the look and feel of ordinary sunglasses.

And in the unlikely event that your Unsinkables float away, the ground-breaking Lifetime + Loss Warranty has you completely covered. www.unsinkablepolarized.com

Best Boating Accessory Minn Kota Built-In MEGA Down Imaging For the first time, anglers have the option of a trolling motor with built-in Down Imaging sonar. Minn Kota’s new Built-In MEGA Down Imaging earned “Best Boating Accessory” at ICAST 2018.

Anglers can select a Minn Kota Ulterra, Terrova, Ultrex or Fortrex with the Humminbird Down Imaging transducer integrated into the trolling motor. Humminbird’s ultra-clear MEGA Imaging is the first Down Imaging technology to enter the megahertz range with performance nearly three times greater than traditional 455 kHz frequencies. It results in the clearest, sharpest on-screen images ever seen.

With Built-In MEGA Down Imaging, the transducer is housed in the indestructible lower motor unit and the wiring runs through the composite shaft providing clean rigging that is protected from wear and tear.

Best Towing Accessory B&W Tow & Stow Adjustable Ball Mount B&W’s Tow & Stow Adjustable Ball Mount is the most innovative product in recent history when it comes to towing. It seems B&W thought of everything when they designed this receiver hitch. Because of that, it’ll be the last one you’ll ever buy.

The Tow & Stow is adjustable to the height of your trailer, which is an important safety consideration, and it’s also super convenient for folks who have different trailers. Whether you’re pulling your boat, camper or equipment trailer, the Tow & Stow quickly and easily adjusts to the proper height, making towing less stressful and safer.

For the same reasons, multiple ball sizes accommodate your boat, lawn mower or ATV trailer. This one hitch can be locked into your

As part of the OneBoat Network, Minn Kota trolling motors with BuiltIn MEGA Down Imaging feature i-Pilot Link GPS technology. Anglers can operate their trolling motor from the Humminbird unit, the app or the i-Pilot remote to “follow” a contour at a set speed with the press of a button.

The new trolling motors are compatible with Humminbird SOLIX, second generation HELIX, and ONIX models and will be available in fall.

www.MinnKotaMotors.com receiver, and you don’t ever have to worry about changing ball mounts.

The Tow & Stow also stows behind the bumper when not in use.

This will save wear and tear on your shins and garage doors.

With steel construction and a two-step ecoat and powdercoat finish, the Tow & Stow is bombproof and 100-percent made in America with stainless steel pins. It is available in multiple drops and shank sizes with two or three ball size combinations. It is also available in black, chrome and Browning colors.

www.bwtrailerhitches.com

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ayaker’s paradise might be the perfect description for the waters of Franklin County, Fla. Skinny waters inaccessible to powerboats are everywhere.

In these shallows await redfish, trout, flounder, jack crevalle, pompano and more. Even freshwater species, like largemouth bass, bream and catfish can be had. There are more than 40 canoe/kayak launches in and around Franklin County, most are found within Tate’s Hell State Forest or the Apalachicola National Forest. Kayaker options also include the seemingly endless miles of shoreline along the bays, and the Gulf of Mexico is accessible at roadside.

Seasonal patterns, at times, will dictate the available species, but most are here for the taking all year. Live bait is always a sure bet, but you can keep your load light with a handful of artificial lures and have tremendous success. If you’re here in the fall, redfish will eagerly explode on a walking topwater plug like a Rapala Skitterwalk or a Zara Spook. Nothing will get an angler’s heart thumping more than seeing these bruisers blow up on the surface and peel drag.

Trout are also in full force in the fall, and a MirrOlure MirrOdine is hard to beat, but they too, will chomp topwater plugs. Jigs tipped with Berkley Gulp! Shrimp should always be part of your line-up, because they will catch nearly anything that swims.

North winds can make the shallows along the Gulf perfect for a kayak fishing trip, and late summer to early fall can provide king and Spanish mackerel action that can’t be rivaled. Steel leaders and stout reels are a must because these toothy critters will strip drag like a freight train before giving up.

The Carrabelle and Apalachicola rivers are teaming with bass, bream and catfish, but don’t be surprised if you get caught up just trying to take in the breathtaking scenery and wildlife found in these tidal waters. Otters, turtles, alligators and an endless array of shore birds can be seen in these pristine and diverse ecosystems.

The Apalachicola Paddle Jam festival will be held Oct. 5-7. Be a part of history as we attempt to set a new Guinness Book World Record for the largest floating gathering of kayaks! This three-day festival celebrates the Forgotten Coast through paddle sports, music and food, with events happening at various locations in Apalachicola. This event promises to be huge fun!

If you’ve never experienced the peace and joy that kayaking can bring, then add this to your bucket list and give it a go; there’s a reason this sport is growing so rapidly. Come see why this area is a kayaker’s paradise!

Franklin County features several kayak and boat rentals. For a complete list of rentals, charters and supplies, visit www.floridasforgottencoast.com.

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By Michelle Armstrong

et’s face it, tournament fishing is a male-dominated sport.

Women anglers have been striving to make a name for themselves in the co-ed format of tournament fishing, but few have prevailed.

On June 23, 2018, North Carolina’s Bass Nation set sail in the BASS Eastern Regional in an effort to win their third championship title. Out of 350 anglers, 175 co-anglers and 175 boaters, one was co-angler Angela Mayo.

Though encouraged by her husband for many years to fish with him, Angela resisted at the hand of raising their children and her career as a legal assistant at Sigmon, Clark, Mackie, Hanvey, and Ferrell. Once she agreed, he used his 40-plus years of bass-fishing knowledge to teach Angela everything he knew. She was a quick learner and a natural angler. Thus, a great woman angler evolved.

They fished many tournaments together, and in 2014 she joined the Ladies Bass Angler Association (LBAA) as a co-angler. In her second LBAA tour, she earned Co-Angler of the Year. The very next year she braved the venture of “taking charge” and moved over to the boater’s side. In her first year as a boater, she won the LBAA’s 2016 Rookie Angler of the Year.

Along the way, Angela amassed an impressive list of local and national sponsors: FishStyx Custom Rods, Angler’s Choice Marine, Mercury Marine, Shiner’s Stash Jerky, Howl-a-Day Inn, Davis Brother’s Automotive, Adventive Graphics, UPS of Hickory #0455, Dr. William Straka... and the list continues to grow as she makes a name for herself in the industry.

She also joined a local bass fishing club, Thermal Belt Bassmaster, as a non-boater, and quickly advanced as a state qualifier. She won for her team on Lake Wylie, which left her as one of the top 10 anglers with a spot at the BASS Eastern Regional tournament held at Winyah Bay, S.C. Anglers from 47 states and nine countries participate in these events. Only those at the top of their game earn their way to the next level.

During the BASS Eastern Regional, Angela made history for North Carolina and women anglers. As she weighed in her third day limit, the emcee announced that she had won, making her the first female on the North Carolina non-boater team to move on to the national championship.

Angela will compete as a non-boater for the first two days of the BASS National Championship on Nov. 8-9 at Lake Pickwick. The leader after day two, who will have already won a boat, will move on to the boater’s side to compete. On day three, it’s an even playing field with everyone competing to be one of the top three anglers to obtain an invitation to the Bassmaster Classic!

No woman has ever fished a Classic qualifying through a co-ed platform.

Remember Angela Mayo. She has already achieved a “first” in fishing history, and she has a solid chance to obtain another.

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By Nick Carter

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ake the aggression of a largemouth and the fight of a smallmouth; mix them together in gorgeous scenery one might normally associate with trout. This is the recipe for shoal bass on the upper end of Georgia’s Chattahoochee River. It’s river fishing for a bass that’s as game as gamefish come.

Between trout water in the mountains and bustling Lake Lanier, shoal bass thrive in a short stretch of this 430-mile river near the north Georgia towns of Clarkesville and Cleveland. Here, the water is much wilder and more sparsely developed than you’d expect from the lifeblood of Atlanta. The river’s rocky shoals offer perfect habitat for the Chattahoochee’s native river bass.

Shoal bass were widespread along the entire course of the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint River Basin before extensive damming after the 1940s turned the Chattahoochee into a series of large reservoirs along the Georgia/Alabama border. Those reservoirs offer great fishing of their own, but it’s a good thing Georgia DNR identified suitable habitat in several places along the Chattahoochee to reintroduce shoal bass.

They are a ton of fun to catch.

Jake Darling, of Unicoi Outfitters out of Helen, Ga., is turning people on to a great summer and early fall shoal bass fishery on upper ’Hooch. He said winter is when they catch big shoalies into the 5-pound range on jigs and soft plastics, but when the water is warm these feisty critters look up to feed.

They will readily jump on a popping bug, and there’s nothing like the excitement of 2-pound bass exploding on top before bulldogging a deep bend into a 5-weight fly rod.

Moving water puts extra muscle on fish, and shoal bass are a perfect example of this. They live their lives swimming against the cur-

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rent, darting out from eddies and seams to feed on crayfish, aquatic insects and baitfish. They might not have the size of their larger black bass cousins, but they make up for it with pulling power.

On a warm summer morning, Jake launched his small and lightweight Smith Fly raft on a gorgeous stretch of river that runs through north Georgia’s Buck Shoals Wildlife Management Area (WMA).

The WMA is a good place to access a long stretch of shoals perfect for wading anglers, but the raft allowed us to navigate broken water and a couple of significant rapids to areas other anglers cannot reach.

Bob Rice, publisher of The Angler Magazine’s Atlanta/ North Georgia edition, and I took the angler’s seats in the raft while Jake pulled the oars and directed us to good numbers of shoal bass, some colorful redear sunfish, bluegills and spotted bass. The biggest shoal bass was probably better than 2-pounds and came all the way out of the water to cream a Double Barrel Bass Bug popped through an eddy. We also caught fish on top with Stealth Bombers and subsurface with a Rubber Legged Dragon and big streamers fished on intermediate sinking lines.

Anyone who’s fished for shoal bass will tell you they offer the best attributes of largemouths, smallmouths and trout. Some might argue they are better sport than all three.

Book a trip with Unicoi Outfitters through their website at www.unicoioutfitters.com.

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8/20/18 10:54 AM

Sneak Peek Giveaway

Coastal Angler/The Angler Magazine will be giving away 2 Brand NEW PENN® Spinfisher® VI Reels on September 30th, 2018.

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8/19/18 9:56 AM

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By Capt. Michael Okruhlik Photo courtesy of Controlled Descent Lures

lthough the first day of fall occurs in the month of September, it sure doesn’t feel like it in any waters where redfish live. Fortunately, redfish don’t mind the heat and can be an easy target in the shallow marsh.

September is a great month for kayak anglers who love the adrenaline rush of sight casting to shallow-water reds. The shrimp are maturing and abundant this time of year.

On a recent trip where I fish in Texas, I had shrimp jumping into the kayak on every muddy shoreline I traveled. When fishing in scenarios such as this, I prefer to throw soft-plastic paddletails.

Locating the reds from a distance can be easy when the water is this shallow and the bait is this plentiful. One key giveaway is hovering seagulls. You can bet if a gull is snatching shrimp out of the air, there are hungry fish below them.

When kayaking, it depends on the distance as to whether or not I will try to chase down the hungry and potentially fast-moving school. If I am not willing to make the move, I try to watch for a pattern as to where the fish are feeding and stage my kayak in a similar location nearby. This could be along points, in the middle, or in front of drains.

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On this particular trip, I noticed skittish bait and distant birds along a north shoreline. I positioned my kayak within casting distance of that shore and fan casted until I saw nervous bait. Once spotted, I would wait for them to cruise the shore into range.

When the time was right, I placed my lure with the fleeing shrimp resulting in aggressive strikes. This was the pattern they held most of the day; however I did catch a few in the middle of the cove as well. If I was not seeing nervous bait, I would fan cast 360 degrees to cover more water. I even had a few keeper-sized trout hanging out in the hot, shallow and muddy marsh.

This area was roughly 10 feet deep throughout with a silty mud bottom, and the water color closely resembled chocolate milk. The air temp was in the mid 90s, but that didn’t deter the fish from feeding midday through 5 p.m. The strikes were violent and gave the illusion of each fish being larger than they were upon landing them.

September brings a change in the season, but it is much more noticeable on the calendar than on the water.

Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Controlled Descent Lures and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.

8/20/18 1:22 PM

Charlotte/Piedmont Our Lakes:

Badin, Hickory, Tillery, Norman, High Rock, Rhodhiss, Mountain Island, Wateree, Wylie

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LAKE HICKORY & RHODHISS FORECAST

THE LARGEST SELECTION OF

FLY FISHING AND FLY TYING EQUIPMENT IN THE REGION

With the summer winding down the fishing will start picking up again on Lake Hickory and Lake Rhodhiss, but we’ve got to get through September. This will be the hardest month of the year to catch striper but things will get better if you’ll stick it out. It’s still going to be hot and fish are going to be slow so first thing in the morning is the best time to be out there, and if you’re lucky enough to get a overcast morning you really need to be out there. I’m going to be looking for the coolest water I can find in the lake. After finding that if I don’t know where fish are I’m going to troll bucktails to locate fish. After locating fish I’ll set down on top of them and get out the downlines loaded with live shad and hold on. Doing this in the right areas you can catch fish up until 9 to 10 o’clock most days but the real fun will begin next month so get ready!!

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Richard Griggs (Carolina Mountian Sports) August 2018 Trip to Alaska

2 CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT

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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM

8/19/18 10:06 AM

By Michelle Armstrong

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F ish the Moment . . .

e have 22 days until fall. After the sweltering summer we’ve had here in the South, we can’t wait for the cooler weather. The fish will get easier to catch and the lake will be “ours” once again. As I awake from this wonderful dream of things to come, I realize, we’re still stuck in Summer. As much as I love warmer weather, the warmer water temperatures make the fishing tough. Especially for someone like me that prefers shallow water fishing. Over the years I’ve learned to seize the moments. Fish have different patterns throughout the “moments” on hot summer days. But in seizing these moments the front deck of my boat often looks like the bottom of my closet floor. Only it’s littered with rods and not shoes.

In the morning, if it’s been a perfect cool night, you can still muster up some schooling bass on topwater. It’s a very small window so be prepared for it to die quickly after the sun shows itself.. I like to use a Pop R modified with a feather on the back hook. It gives me the opportunity to have the bait act sporadically for a few twitches and then let it lay still for a few counts before twitching in place or working it back to the boat quickly.

Let the fish tell you what they want. These early morning fish can be found on rip rap or shoals close to deeper water. I’ll keep the Pop-R stashed away on the deck for some select throws into shady pockets later in the day.

Once the sun comes up I head to the docks, blow downs, or anything with shade. Again I try to pick places with deeper water nearby. My bait of preference is a Fluke. Rigged with light braid on a spinning rod, one can skip this bait easily under docks and dock pilings. The fish have taken cover in these nooks and crannies and are just hanging there waiting for something to ambush. Same thing with blow downs or low hanging trees.

You can skip your Fluke in to the tightest of places to get to where to fish are in the heat. If you are only producing little guys, try using a weighted hook. More often the little guys hang high and the bigger fellows hang low. The weighted hook will help your bait fall faster past the dinks and get you to a bigger bite. The key here is to surprise a Bass waiting to ambush some hapless prey.

I mentioned staying close to deeper water for a reason. It’s hot, the schools of fish are going to be in the deeper depths of the lake. In later afternoon, move off to deeper water. Fish along the deeper end of points or the deeper docks using a giant worm or drop shot.

Classic summer pattern include the old creek channels. Bass are moving to deeper cooler water but that doesn’t always mean to the “bigger” water. Deep water can be found in a shallow creek by locating its old channel. This requires moving a little off the bank to find the bends and hard spots.

I have found that the summer bites are very subtle. Often they feel like “smush” or just a mushy sensation. Other times you may feel a single bump. Either way, reel down until you feel slight pressure and set the hook!

Adjust with the “moments”, and go catch fish.

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LAKE NORMAN FORECAST

J

uly and August saw a resurgence in the number of hybrid striped bass taken from Lake Norman. In fact, Ron Frye caught three tagged hybrids in a single day in July and landed several striped bass the same week. The improvement in hybrid fishing can be attributed to an increase in the annual stocking rate, while the striped bass could have washed over Lookout Shoals Dam during the spring floods.

In any event, their presence will add an exciting dimension to our fall fishing.

September is a month of transition for bass fishing. As water temperatures drop, both spotted and largemouth bass become more active. They will leave their deep-water summer haunts to feed on helpless shad along the shoreline and over humps and shallow points.

To “jump start” the fall season, try fishing the cooler waters from the base of Lookout Shoals Dam, south to the railroad bridge below Highway 70. Like all rivers, bass fishing is best when water is being released.

Farther downstream, the water temperatures usually drop back into the seventies. Between the 15th and 20th of the month, there is usually a frenzy of surface feeding activity. With the passing of each cold front, surface feeding schools become more and more prominent.

Small, spotted and largemouth bass lead the charge early and as water temperatures continue to fall, are joined by their tournament size siblings.

Regardless of how good the surface fishing is, keep an eye on your fish finder for schools that might be suspended beneath the boat. They can be caught by vertically fishing bucktails, jigging spoons or drop shot rigs.

Best places to catch bass down river are at the mouth of large creeks and over main river channel humps. The large rocks in front of the Pinnacle Boat Access, the Highway 150 Causeway, the docks around The Boat House and New Midway Marina are excellent places to begin and end any trip. Anglers who fish the south end of the lake will find bass in Mountain, Reeds and Ramsey Creeks.

Tips from Capt. Gus: * Since baitfish spend a lot of time near the surface this time of year, keep a watchful eye on surface feeding activity. Top water lures that pop, gurgle or churn the surface will entice strikes when feeder fish are under attack. * Not all bass bites occur on the surface, so it’s important to fish the entire water column. To do so effectively, have several rods pre-rigged with baits appropriate for fishing from the top to the bottom. * A likely place to catch bass in September is around any of the onehundred plus channel and shoal marker poles that dot the lake. Most are positioned in relatively shallow water adjacent to a steep drop-off. * September is the time to replace fishing line, particularly if you haven’t re-spooled since early spring.

See you out there!

Ron Frye holding a Lake Norman striped bass

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SEPTEMBER 2018

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8/19/18 10:06 AM

The Science Line: The Mysteries of the Moon

REASONS TO ADVERTISE

By Jake Bussolini

M

ore than ten years ago I began writing about the myths being used to blame or credit the sun and moon for creating good or bad fishing days. Nearly every outdoor magazine contains sol-lunar tables that tell anglers the exact month, day and time that will produce the best fishing.

I have never argued that the tidal changes created by the gravitational forces influenced by the Moon actually do have a significant influence on fish behavior for ocean living fish. I have taken a strong position however, that I could find no scientific proof that Moon phase has any effect at all on fresh water fish behavior. With the absence of solid science, like other curious people I looked to my years of data to support my theory and I was mildly convinced to continue to maintain my position.

I tested my theory against published tables for several years of fish catches. Of course I could use only that data that was recorded during long days and nights when the fishing times coincided with times listed in the published tables. I found ten good periods covering a span of five years where my total fish catch was more than 700 fish, mostly bass. The results of the daytime comparisons are shown below. The correlation with the published tables for the daytime fishing was only 21.7%. I ran the same comparisons for night fishing and my correlation with published tables was only 18.2%. Neither of these results gave me much confidence toward the accuracy of the published tables.

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There have been others who have made similar experiments and their results have been similar to mine. One such angler is Joe Butcher who has published extensively on this subject. Butcher recently changed his mind about the moon, indicating that he had re-examined his data and found a direct correlation between Sun up and Sun down and Moon up and Moon down. He has not taken a strong position on the up-down theory, but he has gotten excited by the idea that there is a period of 5 days after a full Moon when fishing definitely gets better, at least in terms of bigger fish being caught during these periods.

Butcher however leaves the door open for other ideas since he also believes that the effectiveness of the full Moon theory is greatly influenced by the unpredictable local weather. Does this mean that we now have to look ahead weeks or even months to pick the good fishing days and assume that during these days the weather will be clear with no clouds, rain or overcast skies? If so I say not so fast.

Several professional bass fishermen have be asked about the Sun/ Moon theory and they all seem to imply that they make note of the Moons position but they don’t use it for planning their fishing activities.

I have taken a rather strong position about the Sun’s effect on fish behavior since there is little argument that clear skies and bright Sun normally make for bad fishing days, or at least give anglers cause to change their fishing techniques during these times. But the Moon, I still need to find some legitimate science to change my mind. I will bend a little and start collecting data after full Moons, but until I find convincing results, I’m going to stay away from those tables that tell me exactly when I should expect to catch the big monsters.

Jake Bussolini is a freelance writer who has written nine books about fresh water fishing. His books can be examined at www. booksbyjake.com.

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CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT 5

8/19/18 10:06 AM

What you need to know about concealing a handgun while afield

by Karen Fisher

W

ith a continuous influx of NC Conceal Carry Permit applications, it’s recently been noted that some Conceal Carry Instructors may not fully explain the laws related to carrying a concealed handgun while pursuing outdoor activities in the woods or on the water. Here is some important information that can help you stay within compliance of state law while hunting or fishing in North Carolina:

Concealed Handgun Permit. To possess a concealed handgun in North Carolina, you must carry your permit and a valid form of identification with you at all times.

State-Owned Hunting/Fishing Reservations. Concealed handguns are allowed on state-owned hunting and fishing reservations, unless prohibited by the landowner.

State-Owned Game Lands. Concealed handguns are allowed on state-owned game lands, and all other lands unless prohibited by the landowner.

However, persons may not hunt with any firearm being carried unless such firearm is authorized as a lawful method of take for that open season. Exempted game lands where concealed carry is prohibited are: Buckhorn ~ Harris ~ Sutton Lake ~ Mayo ~ Hyco ~ Lee ~ Chatham ~ Pee Dee, area north of U.S. 74 ~ Butner-Falls ~ Jordan ~ Vance ~ Kerr Scott ~ Wayne Bailey-Caswell, area north of U.S. 158 and east of N.C. 119 Fishing/Boating Access Areas. Concealed handguns are allowed on any public fishing or boating access area, unless otherwise prohibited by the landowner and posted as such. This also applies to wildlife conservation areas.

National Forests. Concealed handguns are allowed in any national forest located within the state of NC. State Parks. Concealed handguns are allowed on grounds or waters of a park within the State Parks System.

Hunting Firearms. Any firearm that is legal for a specific hunting season may be carried openly within that season, provided the hunter has the proper license and/or permits required by state law.

Big Game Dispatch. A hunter may use a .22 caliber rimfire pistol or a handgun otherwise legal for that hunting season to dispatch a wounded big game animal, including during the archery and muzzleloader seasons.

Law Updates. It is always a good idea to obtain law updates with regards to concealing a handgun in any area you may be utilizing for outdoor activities. Visit ncwildlife.org or ncdoj.gov for more information.

Karen Fisher, NCDOJ Conceal Carry Instructor NRA Training Counselor Carolina Self Protection, Mooresville NC, 704-237-4487 karen@carolinaselfprotection.com

The Angler Magazine Charlotte NC Send your brag board photos to . . .

Simmons@theAnglerMagazine.com 6 CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT

Charlotte 2018 09.indd 6

SEPTEMBER 2018

Carolina Self Protection Proudly Offers NC concealed carry Basic pistol shooting Refuse to be a victim TEENS 1st steps pistol FIRST steps pistol orientation Advanced concealed carry KIDS firearms safety NRA instructor workshops

704-237-4487 Mooresville, NC Karen has helped over 2,000 adults and children gain the knowledge and skills necessary for keeping themselves and their families safe.

www.CarolinaSelfProtection.com

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8/19/18 10:06 AM

Head Outside this September

by Britt Stoudenmire

H

ave you ever felt like the summer doldrums would never end? Hot steamy weather followed by rain, rain, and more rain…then repeat. That seems to be the pattern this summer and while the lawns are green and the creeks and rivers have plenty of water in them, I have found myself thinking more and more about crisp, sunny, high pressure days in the 70’s and nights that dip into the low-50’s. There is something about the first onset of fall that just seems to reinvigorate the soul and recharge the mind. And I believe there is no better place to experience that than in the outdoors of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Mountain Hiking Giles County, Virginia is home to over 50 miles of the Appalachian Trail and encompasses several of the area’s most famous hikes that include Kelly’s Knob, Wind Rock, and Angel’s Rest among others. These hikes range from “easy” to “strenuous” and are certainly worth the effort for their outstanding scenery and extraordinary vistas. However, there are several lesser-known hikes in the area that are easy-to-get-to and full of fun. One that comes to mind is Mill Creek Nature Park on the outskirts of the town of Narrows. I have visited that area with my 4-yr old daughter and we had a blast tromping around Mill Creek. They have a nice parking lot at the trailhead and miles of trails. We stayed mostly along the creek hiking near the trail and had loads of fun on our short junket. My daughter especially loved the wooden footbridge that crossed the creek.

Tip: For more information on the trails at Mill Creek Nature Park including maps, visit; virginiasmtnplayground.com/mill-creek.

River Floating Having guided for 15 years, I estimate that I have floated over 12,000 miles on the New River, which is equal to nearly half way around the earth. There is something about drifting down a river and the constantly changing environment that hooked me a long time ago. I have found that one of the best months to experience the river’s splendor is September. It is typically not too hot or too cold with 75-degree highs and 50-degree lows on average.

Wildlife is very abundant this time of year as we commonly see

animals such as mink, muskrats, deer, turkey, and osprey. We do see the majestic bald eagle from time to time and although rare, we have also seen bear in and around the river while on floats.

Fishing is typically strong in September as the bigger smallmouth begin to show up and big muskies can really get turned on to top-water lures thrown across shallow, transitional areas in the river.

Tip: Try a Rebel Pop-R for the big smallies. Make sure to work this top-water lure quickly with short pops, never stopping your cadence until you feel the big smallie load your rod. Set the hook and hold on!

Camping & Cabins Back when my wife and I were dating and in graduate school, we scraped up enough money to buy an old blue canoe. On the weekends, we’d travel the southeast floating rivers and camping.

Sometimes we’d do an overnight trip and camp right on the river and other times we set up a base camp, also usually near or on the river, and return to it after a day trip on the river. Some of the rivers we floated together were the Edisto and Saluda rivers in South Carolina, the Tennessee and New River in North Carolina, and the New and James Rivers in Virginia. We found our favorite places to camp were at primitive campsites right along the river. While they would have very few amenities, the locations were typically perfect. If floating during the week, and even sometimes on the weekends, we’d mostly have the camping area to ourselves. As we have gotten older, we have become fans of the cabin route with all the amenities after a long day on the water or hiking.

Tip: When researching a cabin to stay in on your next outdoor adventure, it is extremely beneficial if the owner or manager is versed in the area’s outdoor recreational opportunities.

The author, Britt Stoudenmire, and his wife Leigh, have been outfitting anglers for fifteen years on the New River in Virginia. They offer both guided fishing trips (newriveroutdoorco.com) and waterfront lodging (walkercreekretreat.com). 540-921-7438.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM

Charlotte 2018 09.indd 7

SEPTEMBER 2018

CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT 7

8/19/18 10:06 AM

LAKE WYLIE FORECAST

A

ugust is a month that you can catch a lot of fish. Toward the end of the month the boat traffic slows down. School starts, so that only leaves the weekend with heavy boat traffic.

The crappie fishing is very good after the full moon. They move up to the docks and brushpile in big numbers.

Shooting docks can be a thrill of a lifetime. I target docks with at least 10-12 feet of water using a 1/32 jig with 4 pound test line. Sometimes the bridge pillings will also hold crappie. Trolling is still slow.

Catfishing is good as it gets in August for channel cats. The mouth of creeks and flats on main lake is your best bet. The blue catfish hang out in the same places. I use cutbaits and drift at .5 MPH. If by chance the weather gets cool and we have a lot of rain, fish creek channels.

Bass fishing is fair using topwater early and late. Pop-r’s, buzzbaits and prop baits works well. Up in the day you can c-rig with a creature baits on main lake points and docks. Sometimes shakey head fishing around creek docks will produce some bass. Remember that schooling bass can be a lot of fun. just watch for them to break the surface at the mouths of creeks and other places such as main lake flats.

White Perch fishing is great on points or near creek mouths in depths of 15-25 feet using a sabaki rig or use a two hook minnow rig.

Drag it just off bottom.

Fall is just around the corner. Cooler weather always gets the bite going. Stay safe and wear your life jackets.

Bigbass Slayer

by JD McNabb ne of my most favorite lures to use for catching big bass is swimbaits. Almost everyone I know uses swimbaits in lakes or ponds in the area. Most people will think of swimbaits like a Keitech or a or a Strike King Rage Swimmer, in a pearl of green pumpkin color. I will use these clots to imitate bait fish, like shad or bluegills.

Unlike most people in the area I’ll use these 3.5 to 5 inch lures when big bass aren’t out to play. Now don’t get me wrong these baits can still catch big bass, but as I like to say you either go big or get skunked. My Dad’s friend makes his own homemade swimbaits. These puppies are about eight to eight and a half inches. When I show other anglers this lure they say “ That’s as big as some of the bass I catch”. These swimbaits are truly one of a kind. They have amazing action and are some of the best lures I’ve ever seen. Enough of me rambling on and on about this lure and let’s talk about how to fish it. Most anglers would think to cast out to deep spots out in the middle of the water, but I catch most of my fish near any structure or cover. You can also target deeper holes near the bank to catch them too. You can use really any type of retrieve there is. A straight retrieve, a twitch twitch pause type, or even a slow pause to let it sink a little bit. When fishing dock pilings or lay downs you want to keep the bait just under the surface so you can see it moving over or around that structure. I’ve consistently caught two to five mongos on this amazing lure, but I also have seen friends catch seven a and a half hogs on this lure as well. You can see me catch some nice bass on my YouTube channel Bigbass slayer. In the video we use some Keitch swimbaits and the homemade ones as well. I hope you have learned something here to go out and catch big bass on your lake. Tight lines and good luck!

O

JD McNabb is an Avid Fisherman on Lake Wylie and you can find his You Tube Channel at Bigbass Slayer

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Charlotte 2018 09.indd 8

SEPTEMBER 2018

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8/19/18 10:06 AM

National finals help fill Mooresville’s fishing team’s boat

by Larry Sullivan/Mooresville Tribune

T

here is now a more impressive lure in place in the tackle box of Mooresville High School’s still-maturing fishing program.

That is the case after one of the four teams representing the third-year organization still conducting its competition on a club level landed a coveted invitation to attend this summer’s National High School Fishing Championship.

The duo of Blue Devils casting partners Tommy Shubert and Isaiah Lane posted positive enough performances combined during the four local qualifying tournaments to merit a berth into the national competition.

“I could not be more proud of these guys,” gushed J.J. Morse, Mooresville’s head fishing team coach. “Their work ethic, skill and team spirit have placed them in this position. We are pumped and ready for the national stage.”

Team captain Shubert and first mate Lane formed one of the four teams fielded

by Mooresville this past prep-level angling season. They placed high enough in the four qualifying events to secure one of the limited number of eight bids extended to North Carolina teams for the nationals.

On the way towards punching their final ticket, the MHS pair was part of a field

convening on Lake Wylie that consisted of nearly 300 boats.

It accounts for a major step forward for a Blue Devils active club program that has been in existence for only three years.

“To make the National Championship is what we had hope for early,” offered Morse.

“To be preparing to leave and compete on a national level is really exciting.”

Morse is also just as quick to give additional credit where it is due.

“We need to say a huge thank you to the Mooresville Athletic Boosters Club,” acknowledged Morse, “and specifically to David Sharpe for serving as a faculty advisor.”

The potential awards dangling on the end of the hook for all national finals competitors also prove valuable. Winners of the tournament will be awarded college scholarships and receive recognition towards the goal of being selected to join college programs.

“We have really grown the club since it started,” praised Morse. “Just as our other sports teams, these guys have put in the time and that has paid off. We’re already looking forward to next season, which starts in November.”

For now, though, the focus remains centered on the National High School Championships,

with Mooresville’s first entry helping form the field. *The National Championships took place on Kentucky Lane in Paris, Tenn., Aug. 2-4.

The duo had a great time but did not place.

We want to print tournament schedules and results.

So please email us any information you think would be helpful.

Simmons@TheAnglerMagazine.com

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Charlotte 2018 09.indd 9

SEPTEMBER 2018

CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT 9

8/19/18 10:06 AM

Meet Don Walters

by Michelle Armstrong

W

hen Don Walters fished his first tournament on Lake Norman with Operation North State, he was almost completely confined to a wheelchair. Accompanied by his wife and full time caregiver Dawnette, he made his way in his chair down the boat ramp towards the awaiting bass boat. Don loves to fish and he was not about to let his situation keep him from doing just that. In order to get in the “low to the water” Bass boat, he literally slid out of his wheelchair and pulled himself onto the boat.

Dawnette, Don, and their host boater (me) set out for the day. Though it was early spring, a cold front had moved in bringing frigid temperatures and cold rain. None of the three were properly dressed for the weather but the desire to fish prevailed. His wife was a serious good sport and endured the conditions so Don could participate. Many fish were caught that day and Don was able to weigh in his limit of 5 Large Mouth Bass. He was not among the winners in the normal sense but he was a true winner at heart. The obstacles he overcame to fish that day were something to be proud of.

The Back Story . . .

In October of 2000, Don made a commitment to Dawnette and they were married. Until then he had been a single dad with a daughter whom suffered from a genetic disorder. He wanted to create a better life for them all, so in January 2001, at the age of 28, Don Walters made a commitment to his country and joined the United States Army.

During his time in the army Don was trained in a mechanized infantry unit. That basically means they are infantry equipped with armored personnel carriers or infantry fighting vehicles for transport and combat.

Don was deployed two times during his career. Both times he was with the 4th Infantry Division, 3rd Brigade, ⅛ Infantry Battlion. Upon his first deployment, his was the third unit to invade Iraq.

His second deployment led him to Samarra Iraq.

During both of his deployments, Don saw battles up close and personal. He and his men were exposed to many explosions in the areas they were patrolling. He later became a Squad leader and a commander of a Bradley fighting vehicle. While on patrol in Balad, Iraq his platoon came upon many Improvised Explosive Device (IED). Don sustained many injuries including a traumatic brain injury.

Don left the Army in 2007 with a long road ahead. He struggled with his injuries and starting experiencing signs of PTSD. Later, he developed MS as a result of chemical exposure during his time in Iraq. He would become confined mostly to a wheelchair and needed 24 hour medical care.

His wife Dawnette was employed full time as a logistics manager. When she wasn’t working or helping Don, she was scouring the internet searching for resources to help her husband. In 2013 she stumbled across a comprehensive caregiver program on the VA website. After jumping through a lot of hoops, she was the first person in the Cleveland, Ohio VA to receive approval for this program. As a result, she was able to leave her employment and give Don the care he so desperately needed.

Although Dawnette could provide care, their home was not conducive to Don’s needs. He could not easily maneuver around his own home due to his wheelchair and physical limitations. In 2016 they applied for an “adaptive” house through Homesforourtroops.org. They now reside in a home that Don can call his own and maneuver independently.

Since his first tournament on Lake Norman, Don has made tremendous progress. He received stem cell treatments and has physical therapy 3 times per week. The doctors have noticed his cells have repaired trifold. He has regained strength in his arms and legs. His brain damage has minimized and there are no new lesions.

Don is able to get back to the outdoors that he has never stopped having a passion for. He is able to hunt some and of course, fish.

At this year’s Operation Northstate tournament, on Lake Norman, he was walking with the aid of crutches unaccompanied by Dawnette.

Operation North State, may have not been a “game changer” for Don, but it sure has brought him some fond memories. He has fished all of the tournaments he can get to on his own. Twice he has won the trophy for the biggest crappie. These tournaments have allowed him, like others, the sense of camaraderie while participating in some serious, or not so serious competition.

Thank you Don Walters for your sacrifice and service.

Operation North State tournaments are free to all wounded/ dvets and their caregivers. For more information visit

www.OperationNorthState.com

10 CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT

Charlotte 2018 09.indd 10

SEPTEMBER 2018

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM

8/19/18 10:06 AM

LAKE HIGHROCK/BADIN TUCKERTOWN DAM FORECAST

S

eptember is the last summer month and by this time Largemouth Bass like big baits such as the Zoom Ol’ Monster (10 1/2”) and Ol’ Monster Magnum (12”) worms. Everybody has their favorite color but two colors that seem to consistently produce are green pumpkin and black. This is a very versatile bait and can be fished several different ways.

Swim the lure along the bottom over ledges and humps, fish it Texas rigged around structure or Carolina rigged over points and drop offs.

Catfishing has been great all summer. We are seeing many large Blue Cats, Flatheads and Channel Cats, Drift fishing with live bait works great for the large Flatheads. Live shad, shiners, or sunfish are good choices for bait. Smaller to mid sized channel cats readily take dip baits and other packaged baits. For the big Blue Cats try cut shad for bait.

Crappie will still be in the typical summer pattern. During bright sunny days they will be holding on the deeper structure in the area. Try bouncing a small jig or minnow just off the bottom around these areas.

Look for areas where the depth changes suddenly. At night or early in the morning they may be up in the shallows. Work a jig around docks or tree laps in this relatively shallow water. Cloudy or overcast days may keep the fish in the shallow water most of the day.

September can be a great time to be on the water fishing. The summer recreational boat traffic is winding down leaving mostly anglers on the water and the fishing can be fantastic. Have a great day on the water and be safe.

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September 1 ~~~ September 22 ~~~ October 6 ~~~ October 27 ~~~ November 10

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2018 Schedule - Friday New Bern ~ September 14 Jordan Lake ~ September 28 Oak Island ~ October 5

Contact Operation North State at 336.764.5967 or mailbox@operationnorthstate.com to register and/or offer your assistance.

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Charlotte 2018 09.indd 11

SEPTEMBER 2018

CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT 11

8/19/18 10:06 AM

Shaking off the Cobwebs: Make the Most of your Time on the Water

By Ryan Wilson

A

few months ago, I wrote an article encouraging Carolina anglers to get out and tackle the rewarding challenge of summertime fly fishing.

However, based on August Fly sales at the Shop, I’m guessing that the bulk of us let the fly rod gather dust. We grabbed a cold beer and waited not-so-patiently for October. Well, October is almost here and our Delayed Harvest streams will soon be full of fish and full of water.

For those of you who chose not to spend the summer casting to big Smallies or small wild trout, it’s important to shake the cobwebs off and get back to fishing shape.

The number one barrier between anglers and fish, is time. I’ve never met an angler who claims to have as much time to fish as he likes. Our time is precious and has become increasingly over-extended by the pace of the world. While no time spent fishing is ever wasted, there are some steps that you can take at home, to get the most out of your limited time on the water.

Fly rods and reels are not super complicated pieces of equipment, but they still need basic maintenance to perform their best. Rid your rod of accumulated dirt and grime with Windex and a microfiber cloth. Clean your line by letting it soak in warm, dish-soapy water and then dry with a microfiber cloth. Clean and lubricate your reel using a degreaser and some gun oil - I prefer Ballistol as an all in one option.

It’s also important to check waders and boots for issues. No one wants to find out about leaky waders while waist deep in the Tuckaseegee River.

You can find pinhole leaks by turning the wader inside out and spraying a fine mist of rubbing alcohol over them. Holes will appear as dark spots on the material.

Make time to organize that fly box and inventory terminal tackle. Discard flies that are busted or rusted and take inventory of your favorite patterns. Toss out old leader and tippet material. A good rule of thumb is: if the brand has updated their packaging since you bought it, your tippet is too old. Make sure you have reliable nippers & clamps and check for tears in your net.

A great way to ensure that your gear is in tip top shape is to bring the whole lot to the local fly shop and have one of the pros help. Most shops will be happy to perform basic service on your equipment and will make sure you have the right tools for a productive trip.

Don’t discard the importance of keeping your skills sharp either. I prefer looking silly practicing my fly cast in the front yard, to looking silly on the river with poor technique. Work at casting to targets at different distances and around obstacles if possible. Also don’t neglect your knots. A weak knot game is one of the most common, yet preventable time wasters that I encounter. Practice makes perfect and there are no shortcuts. Try perfecting a new knot while sitting in front of the TV. Of course, if you really value your time on the water, the absolute best way to build your skill set is to spend a day with a guide. Not only will you have a memorable experience, you will learn a host of new skills and techniques. An experienced guide will have technical insights and Madison River Fly Fishing is your practical adjustments that will help take your fishing skill set to the next level. Rest assured that an early season guided day will pay dividends one stop shop for all fly fishing gear. throughout the year.

Regardless of your experience and skill set, if your fishing muscle has We proudly distribute: atrophied since May, I encourage you to consider these basic exercises before getting back on the water. By doing some prep work, you’ll spend less time fumbling around and you’ll have a better and more productive fishing experience all season long.

Ryan Wilson is the Owner and Operator of Madison River Fly Fishing Outfitters in Cornelius, NC. If you’d like help making the most of your time on the water, please contact him at madisonriverflyfishing@gmail.com or call at (704) 896-3676.

Check us out on Facebook: Madison River Fly Fishing Outfitters or on the Web: www.carolinaflyfishing.com

12 CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT

Charlotte 2018 09.indd 12

SEPTEMBER 2018

Don’t forget to book your guided fly fishing trip today!

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252.235.2461 CANGL_FIL1-FIL4.indd 3

8/20/18 1:22 PM

F

FISH & FISHING

LW Tour pro Clent Davis, of Montevallo, Ala., brought a fivebass limit to the scale Sunday, Aug. 12 that was the heaviest sack of the three-day 2018 Forrest Wood Cup on Lake Ouachita, Arkansas. Davis’ final day weight of 17 pounds, 13 ounces catapulted him from 10th to first place and earned him the $300,000 top prize.

With a three-day total of 15 fish and 36 pounds, 13 ounces, Davis beat out second-place Cabela’s/Bass Pro Shops pro James Niggemeyer, of Van, Texas, by more than seven pounds.

“I don’t believe that I just won this,” said Davis, a former FLW College Fishing standout for the University of Montevallo. “I almost walked away from professional bass fishing last year. I was burned out on fishing. I sold all of my gear – my boat, all of my rods, my reels, every piece of equipment that I had. It wasn’t from failure, it was because I was burned out.

Davis’ decision to rejoin the tour—after some prompting by FLW Tour Senior Tournament Director Bill Taylor—was definitely the correct one. He finished the season ranked No. 25 in the Angler of the Year race—his best finish since his rookie season. He cashed checks totaling more than $62,000 in seven events and qualified for his third Forrest Wood Cup appearance.

“I knew that the only way that I was going to win this week was fishing brushpiles,” Davis said. “There are so many ways to catch fish on this lake, but if it was going to happen for me, it was going to be offshore, fishing out of the brush.”

Davis relied on a 12-inch, plum-colored Mister Twister Mag Buzz Worm fished in the 22- to 30-foot depths.

“I fished awful all week, losing fish, but I caught enough to squeak into the top-10 by 1 ounce,” Davis said. “I’m not supposed to win

Look Down

A

MARK SOSIN

t times, success on the water comes from changing your approach. Let me share some examples. No matter what lure you choose, there’s a compelling desire to cast it as far as you can and retrieve it on the surface or just below it. Trollers insist on a full spread well behind the boat on top of the water. Anglers who prefer to drift with the current fish natural baits or artificials a distance from the boat on the upcurrent side and closer to the surface. Even those who fly kites on the offshore grounds keep live baits barely splashing on the skin of the water.

The tendency in all of these examples lies in ignoring the fact that distance on the water must be measured vertically as well as horizontally. Most fish species spend the major portion of their existence at or near the bottom of the water. Consider, too, that there are some species that will suspend at mid-depth or cruise somewhere between top and bottom in search of food.

Even moderate attempts to cover vertical distance as well as horizontal can make a difference. If you enjoy casting and retrieving an artificial and you have two outfits, rig one with an artificial that skims the surface or just below it and put an offering on the other that will sink to the bottom. Alternate them on casts, and you will quickly learn where the fish are in that spot. If trolling becomes your technique of choice, rig one line on a downrigger or weight it sufficiently so that it covers the mid-depth or close to the bottom. And, if you are just drifting with offerings streamed on the upcurrent side, fish at least one of the baits or lures at a reasonable depth.

Probing the depths becomes even more important when there is structure on the bottom that attracts fish. Some species will hug the structure while others will probe and prowl the area. Fishing a bait or working a lure from the bottom to the surface in these waters

CANGL_FIL1-FIL4.indd 4

coming out in 10th FLW Photo place, so I went out today and just had fun. I had an incredible day on the water today and finally got lucky, catching my 5-pound kicker. I guess it was just my time.”

The top 10 pros at the 2018 Forrest Wood Cup on Lake Ouachita finished: 1st: Clent Davis, Montevallo, Ala., 15 bass, 36-13, $300,000 2nd: James Niggemeyer, Van, Texas, 14 bass, 29-9, $60,000 3rd: Berkley pro Justin Atkins, Florence, Ala., 15 bass, 28-12, $50,000 4th: Nick LeBrun, Bossier City, La., 12 bass, 28-6, $37,500 5th: Jason Lambert, Michie, Tenn., 15 bass, 27-15, $30,000 6th: Zack Birge, Blanchard, Okla., 15 bass, 26-13, $24,000 7th: Wes Logan, Springville, Ala., 11 bass, 25-9, $23,000 8th: John Cox, DeBary, Fla., 13 bass, 24-7, $22,000 9th: Brandon Cobb, Greenwood, S.C., 12 bass, 23-1, $21,000 10th: Bradford Beavers, Summerville, S.C., nine bass, 20-8, $20,000 Full results for the entire field can be found at FLWFishing.com.

To watch the winning moment, go to

FISHINGLIFE.CO

often is paramount to success. It is usually more productive if you focus on the upcurrent side of the structure.

Veteran anglers keep an outfit on board expressly for deep jigging. It’s rigged with a leadheaded bucktail or some other type of metal that boasts the weight to get the offering to the bottom. It can be rigged with natural bait, a natural bait tail behind the bucktail or an artificial tail such as a plastic worm. It works on countless species. The key is to drop it to the bottom straight up and down and then retrieve it with a bunch of moves with the rod. You’ll find it is much more productive when the retrieve is close to the boat rather than working it to the surface at an angle.

Vertical jigging won’t work every time, nothing does, but it’s a method you want to remember and use when other approaches don’t produce fish.

For more from Mark Sosin, visit

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TIPS FROM A PRO

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f you want to be a successful bass angler, you have to learn to fish a jig. I don’t know anybody, anywhere, who’s a successful bass angler, who doesn’t know how to fish a jig well. It is so versatile, and it catches quality fish. Personally, I love a good jig bite, so it’s also one of the most fun ways to fish.

There’s not another lure on the market that has been tweaked and built to fish different types of cover and structure like a jig, and that’s part of its appeal. Jigs come in so many different shapes and sizes that the possibilities are endless.

Changing out the jig’s trailer can make all the difference in the world, too.

If you are just starting to get serious about jig fishing, an “Arkie”-style jig would be best to learn with. A 3/8- to ½-ounce size, really the first kind of bass jig head that ever came out, is where to begin. I use it for flipping, as it works well around wood, rock, gravel, ledges, and you can even swim it.

You basically fish it like a soft plastic worm. Cast it out and

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let it go all the to the bottom on a slack line. Pull it off the bottom a few inches and then crawl it along. Most of the time when you’re casting or flipping, you’re imitating a crawfish, so think about a one of those walking around on the bottom. He’s not going to be jumping around a lot. If something chases him, he might scurry along quickly, but they usually move fairly slowly.

Fishing a jig does take the right gear. I fish 20-lb. Vicious fluorocarbon with an improved clinch knot, a good high-speed reel and an NEPS 90HF rod from MHX. It is a 7’6” heavyaction rod with a fast tip. That rod is absolutely perfect for jig fishing. You can make accurate presentations with this fastaction tip, and the heavy power gives you the backbone to pull fish out of the cover.

There are tons of jigs with this style. The best ones always have a good Mustad hook. Keep the colors simple; green pumpkin and orange in clear water and black and blue in dirty water. Jigs are weedless and made to be fished in heavy cover.

Give them a try, and you’ll soon see why everyone who bass fishes likes a jig.

Get more tips from Lester at

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ike most southern ports, Charleston, S.C. offers plenty of inshore angling opportunities. You’ll find redfish in the bays, seatrout in the channels, plus flounder, cobia and spadefish on local wrecks.

“Those are all fun,” said Darcy Hill (#fishcharleston), but if you want to hook something with a real sense of Southern hospitality, the inshore sheepshead fishery is tough to beat. From Isle of Palms to Folly Island, and right on up into the confluence of the Ashley and Cooper rivers surrounding the city, you’ll find these battle-ready fish hugging structure.”

An abundance of sheepshead doesn’t mean they’re pushovers.

Quite the contrary, Hill pointed out, “Sheepshead can be challenging to catch. You have to poke into all the nooks and crannies amongst structure points, and keep moving until you get on them.”

For bank fishermen, Hill recommended public access points like the Folly beach, Isle of Palms or Mount Pleasant piers. Boaters should tie-up to pilings, docks or other structure (where legal) and fish each piece thoroughly. Sometimes, she said, moving your bait just 5 or 6 inches to one side or the other makes a ton of difference.

“We generally use fiddler crabs or oysters for bait,” explained the 32-year old Folly Island resident. Bury the hook in your offering and hide the point. To get the bite started, chum with crushed oysters or barnacles. Fiddlers work best from May through February while oysters rule in cooler months. Get your line tight to structure, then lift it up slightly and drop it down slowly. Most bites come on the drop.

The end of the ebb and start of the flood usually see the best scores.”

Setting up for sheepshead, Hill uses a Carolina-rig with a size 1 Owner Mosquito hook, a ¾-ounce egg sinker and a 1-foot length of 30-pound test mono leader. She’ll team this with a fast-tip rod and KaskKing 3,000 series Kodiak spinning reel filled with 40-pound test KastKing Super Power or KastPro braided line. “I like the abrasion resistance of these lines,” she noted, “and that Kodiak reel just gets the job done. Last week it out-muscled a 15-pound spadefish.”

Keep in mind, Hill added, that sheepshead can be light biters, so watch for line twitches in addition to feeling for strikes. Set the hook hard because these fish have a big set of teeth and tough lips.

Pull straight up, not to the side. Keep your rod high and walk the fish away from the nastiest tangles as you reel up.

Charleston’s inshore sheepshead average 3 pounds but can push into double-digits. Two years ago, Hill took fellow KastKing pro staffer Christin Kruger on her first sheepshead foray. “She caught a 10-pounder!” laughed Hill. Now she’s a sheepshead fan for life.”

October is prime time for Charleston’s sheepshead. Boaters can launch at Shem Creek (free) (www.ccprc.com/3301/Boat-Landings) in Mount Pleasant, or at Isle of Palms Marina (www.iopmarina.com; $15 weekdays/$20 weekends). For overnight accommodations, consider Shem Creek Inn (www.shemcreekinn.com) in Mount Pleasant or Sea Side Inn (www.seasideinniop.com) on Isle of Palms.

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he action peaked at the end of August here in northern Costa Rica, with multiple sailfish releases and daily shots at marlin battles.

Frank Bellizio, Bob Sherley and Chet Jasak had the trip of a lifetime with sweet sailfish and mighty marlin releases. Once they got home we received this: “I returned last week from my trip to Nosara,” wrote Frank Bellizio, of Tampa, Fla. “It was great to finally get to go fish with your team in Costa Rica.

I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed the trip and will recommend Fishing Nosara to everyone.

“Bob has ALS and his mobility and strength are not the best. Both Capt.

William and Capt. Francisco really accommodated us so that we were able to help our friend land both a sailfish and marlin.

“Bob was a diver and commercial fisherman in his earlier years. We are all 71 or older, and he said this was probably his last chance to catch a sailfish or marlin. Capt. William on the Wanderer and Capt. Francisco on the Explorer made it happen.

“If Capt. Francisco wanted to, he could have ended our day earlier, but he hung in and we got the sailfish late in the day. Capt.

William had to work the Wanderer over and over to keep the marlin in position so Bob and I could get it landed. These men and their crew (Johnny and Elias) are much more than just employees, they have heart, and you are blessed to have them on your staff.”

Kathleen Clarke of Ottawa, Ontario came to us as a novice angler, but after her trip on the Discoverer she is a full-fledged big-time bluewater angler.

“Just wanted to let you know that we had an incredibly amazing time on our fishing trip,” Kathleen wrote in an email. “I don’t think that it could have been any better. Capt. Carlos and Mate Kevin were stellar. I would highly recommend that crew to anyone.

“Kevin kept the boat very clean and tidy and made sure we all had everything we needed. Lunch was excellent, also, as was the fruit. We caught a mix of mahi-mahi and sailfish, also saw porpoises and turtles.”

Most recently we received this one: “Just wanted to say an enthusiastic thank you for the incredible trip we had thanks to your team,” wrote Jeff Broom, of Jacksonville, Fla. “In three days we got three marlin, two blues and a massive black, three sailfish, a huge dorado, and a good deal more tuna and mahi.

“Thanks to Capt. Alex and his hard working deckhand Wilson, I was able to cross marlin off my bucket list of fish to catch. It was definitely a dream for me, and I know I speak for all the guys in our group that it was definitely the fishing trip of a lifetime!

“You could tell how passionate Alex was about fishing. His favorite thing to say after we brought in a catch was, ‘Let’s get another one!’”

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By Ken Kastorff • Photo by Pia Waugh/flickr.com

W

hen the Spanish conquistadors came to Ecuador, they were in search of gold. The Incas found most of their gold in the headwaters of the Amazon. I recently found gold in the Ecuadorian Amazon… golden dorado.

I’ve spent 25 years on the rivers of Ecuador leading kayak and fishing trips. Three years ago, I decided to find golden dorado.

Most dorado fishing occurs in Bolivia or northern Argentina. It just didn’t make sense to me that Ecuador, with such similar topography didn’t also have golden dorado.

As a fly fishing guide, one of the most fun and sometimes challenging aspects of the job is finding new fishing opportunities. It isn’t unusual for my friend and co-guide, Bob Gernandt, and I to float some stretch of river we’ve never seen to develop a new fishing destination. Doing this in another country can be a bit more complicated, especially when you are heading into one of the biggest jungles in the world.

Having a lodge in the cloud forest of the Amazon has allowed me to tap into local knowledge. It also helps to have a partner in-country who knows the lay of the land and can speak the language. Last February, my partner Angel and I spent a month tracking down dorado leads. Angel visited one community after another with photos of golden dorados. The first breakthrough was learning that indigenous communities call the fish by its Ketchua name, Gualo. That led us to a handful of possible rivers to check.

We were dependent on local river transportation. The indigenous communities have used dugout canoes for centuries to transport people and goods in the roadless jungle. These canoes are 12-meter-long boats carved out of a tree trunk. We were able to check out three different sections of rivers using these narrow and incredibly tippy canoes. The advantage is these boats can negotiate whitewater while being pushed upstream by a 40-horse outboard. They are almost impossible to stand in, so they are not the best platform to cast an 8-weight fly rod from. We eventually transported a raft and fishing frame upstream in order to float a section of river.

It didn’t take long to catch several Ecuadorian golden dorado as well as another species of fish call sabalo. Sabalo fry are the favorite food for dorado, so they are likely found together. If the sabalo survive the dorado, they grow into great sport fish. Their shape is similar to a largemouth bass, but they are much more aggressive and hard fighting. The golden dorado prefer rapids and fast water at the washout of rapids, while sabalo like smooth fast water between rapids. It presents an ideal situation for fishing because there’s no down time!

Once you catch a golden dorado, you are hooked for life.

These are some of the hardest hitting, hardest fighting, highest jumping fish in the world. I can’t wait to hook into more gold.

Ken can be contacted at Endless River Adventures, 800-2247238, endrivadv@cs.com, www.endlessriveradventures.com.

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ick Ratliff, 21, of Elizabethtown, Ky., a senior at Campbellsville University, will be fishing the big show when the Bassmaster Classic launches on the Tennessee River at Knoxville in March. He’s also riding around in a fully rigged Toyota Tundra that’s pulling a Nitro Z20 bass boat, and he’s holding a check for $7,500 for tournament entry fees. It’s all thanks to some last-minute heroics that helped him win the 2018 Carhartt Bassmaster College Series Classic Bracket.

Ratliff fought down to the final minutes of the third day in an oh-soclose bracket against a scrappy West Virginia University junior, Nolan Minor of Charlottesville, Va. The anglers wrapped up the day with the two biggest bags of the tournament; Ratliff with 13 pounds, 8 ounces and Minor with 13-4.

Ratliff, who is majoring in business administration with an emphasis in marketing, plugged along consistently, throwing a weightless wackyrigged stickworm and keeping his faith.

“I had the feeling I was behind,” he said. “I kept my head down, and I knew if the Lord meant it to be, then it would be.”

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Ratliff was emotional and stunned as family and friends hugged and congratulated him.

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$ 99 SAVE 40% ITEM 61363, 68497, 61360, 61359,

LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 1/1/19*

SUPER COUPON

Cu stomer Rating

12¢

PER PAIR

Cu stomer Rating

99

COMPARE TO

ITEM 61840/61297/63476/61258 shown

LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 1/1/19*

$9 9

• 5 mil thickness

NOW

6999

COMPARE TO

SUPER COUPON

8 GALLON, 2 HP, 125 PSI PORTABLE OIL-LUBE AIR COMPRESSOR

POWDER-FREE NITRILE GLOVES PACK OF 100

$49

MODEL: KTI63094

LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 1/1/19*

Cu stomer Rating

SUPER COUPON

99

99

K TOOL

Limit 1 coupon per customer per day. Save 20% on any 1 item purchased. *Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or any of the following items or brands: Inside Track Club membership, Extended Service Plan, gift card, open box item, 3 day Parking Lot Sale item, compressors, floor jacks, safes, saw mills, storage cabinets, chests or carts, trailers, trencher/ backhoe, welders, Admiral, Ames, Bauer, Cobra, CoverPro, Daytona, Earthquake, Fischer, Hercules, Icon, Jupiter, Lynxx, Poulan, Predator, Tailgator, Viking, Vulcan, Zurich. Not valid on prior purchases. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 1/1/19.

NOW

$5 999 COMPARE TO

SUPER COUPON

2500 LB. ELECTRIC WINCH WITH WIRELESS REMOTE CONTROL

NOW

79

ANY SINGLE ITEM*

• 3.5" LCD Display • Battery Included

SUPER COUPON

$

1672

Cannot be used with other discounts or prior purchases. Original coupon must be presented.

Valid through 1/1/19 while supplies last. Limit 1 FREE GIFT per customer per day.

4-1/2" ANGLE GRINDER RAPID PUMP® 1.5 TON LIGHTWEIGHT ALUMINUM FLOOR JACK Cu stomer Rating

NOW

PERFORMAX

$

99

• 3-1/2 pumps lifts most vehicles • Lifts from 3-1/2" to 14-1/8" • Weighs 34 lbs.

COMPARE TO

PROSKIT

MODEL: MT-1210

LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 1/1/19*

$9

COMPARE TO

ITEM 64031/64061 64059/64060/64032 64030/64033

SUPER COUPON

Cu stomer Rating

7 FUNCTION DIGITAL MULTIMETER

• 15,000 cu. in. of storage • 700 lb. capacity • Weighs 139 lbs.

YOUR CHOICE

$189

$ 99

RANGEMAXX

ANY PURCHASE

99

Cu stomer Rating COMPARE TO

WITH

30", 5 DRAWER MECHANIC’S CARTS Item 64031 shown

20% OFF

FREE

900 Stores Nationwide • HarborFreight.com

SUPER COUPON

SUPER COUPON

SAVE 50%

Cu stomer Rating ITEM 64284/69955 69594/42292 shown

LIMIT 8 - Coupon valid through 1/1/19*

COMPARE TO

BLACK & DECKER

$

28

06

MODEL: HG1300

SAVE 67%

$

1499

ITEM 62340/62546 63104/96289 shown

LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 1/1/19*

• Super strong holds 300 lbs.

• Weighs 34 lbs.

$

13999 $1N0OW999

COMPARE TO

LITTLE GIANT

$

29899

MODEL: XE M17

SAVE $ 189

OSHA / ANSI

COMPLIANT

ITEM 63418/63419/62656/67646/62514/63417 shown LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 1/1/19*

At Harbor Freight Tools, the “Compare to” price that the specified comparison, item with the same or similar function, COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM I means SEPTEMBER 2018whichIis anFRESHWATER 25was advertised for sale at or above the “Compare to” price by another national retailer in the U.S. within the past 90 days. Prices advertised by others

*Original coupon only. No use on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase or without original receipt. Valid through 1/1/19.

CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 25 hft_coastalangler_0918_M-REG152003.indd 1

may vary by location. No other meaning of “Compare to” should be implied. For more information, go to HarborFreight.com or see store associate.

8/20/18 PM 8/2/18 12:17 3:33 PM

26

FRESHWATER

CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 26 1 1782-18A Coastal Angler .indd

I

SEPTEMBER 2018

I

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

8/20/18 12:17 AM PM 5/8/18 10:51

COMMON CVRS_0918.indd 3

8/20/18 12:59 PM

EVINRUDE

®

ENDLESS ADVENTURE SALES EVENT

7-YEAR COVERAGE

*

AUG. 1 THRU NOV. 30, 2018

©2018 BRP US Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®,™ and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates.

Offer valid only to qualified buyers on purchases of engines bought for recreational use only. Excludes engines purchased under commercial, professional, and government programs. Offer is valid in North America only on new and unused Evinrude E-TEC® engines purchased, delivered and registered between 8/1/18 and 11/30/18 at an authorized, participating Evinrude dealer. *7-YEAR COVERAGE: Subject to all exclusions, limitations of liabilities, and all other terms and conditions of BRP’s standard limited warranty and B.E.S.T. contract, including without limitation the exclusions of damages caused by abuse, abnormal use or neglect (see B.E.S.T. contract for specific details of coverage and exclusions). Offer effective on all new and unused 15 H.O. and above Evinrude E-TEC outboard engines. Eligible models will receive 7-year coverage (3 years of BRP Limited Warranty and 4 years of BRP Extended Service Terms [B.E.S.T.] coverage) subject to a $50 deductible on each repair. Benefit offered to Florida residents is a 7-year BRP Limited Warranty. Evinrude Jet Series engines are eligible for 7-year coverage offer on the upper unit only. The jet pump assembly will only receive a 3-year BRP limited warranty. All rigging components purchased on the same bill of sale as the engine, will be covered under the same BRP Extended Service Terms as the engine. Offer subject to change without notice. See your authorized, qualified Evinrude dealer for details. Terms and conditions apply. Offer may not be assigned, traded, sold or combined with any other offer unless expressly stated herein. OFFER VOID WHERE RESTRICTED OR OTHERWISE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

COMMON CVRS_0918.indd 4

8/20/18 12:59 PM