Coastal Angler Magazine | December 2025 Fort Myers / Cape Coral / Charlotte Harbor Edition

Page 1


TRUST BR AND MARINERS

Ever see a commercial harbor full of Furuno Marine Electronics and wonder why the pros rely on us?

See why here

fve things you should know about boat insurance

Are you ready to embark on your next on-water adventure? Before you set sail, here are fve things to know about boat insurance.

1. Boat insurance isn’t just for accidents

With comprehensive coverage, you’ll also be protected fnancially for theft, vandalism, and unexpected events like storms if you need repairs or replacements due to damage.

2. Accidents can happen to anyone

When accidents happen, boat insurance offers liability coverage for damages or injuries you cause while boating, up to specifed limits. It can also cover lawsuit costs if you’re sued.

3. Boat insurance can cover medical payments

Boat insurance offers a range of optional medical payments coverage limits, helping to cover medical expenses if you’re in an accident or someone is hurt on your boat, regardless of fault.

4. Most lenders require boat insurance

If you fnanced your boat, you’ll likely need boat insurance since most lenders require boat insurance to protect their investment. Additionally, some marinas or municipalities require proof of insurance for docking.

5. Progressive offers specialized boat coverages

Ever worry about getting stuck on the water?

Progressive’s Sign & Glide® On-Water Towing coverage** can help. It’s an additional coverage that steps in if your boat is disabled or breaks down on the water, paying for on-water towing, jump starts, soft ungroundings, and fuel delivery. Fuel cost isn’t included.

Don’t let unforeseen circumstances disrupt your voyage. Cruise with confdence thanks to Progressive Boat insurance. Because when it comes to your boat, peace of mind is the ultimate luxury.

Scan to get a quote in as little as 4 minutes.

to learn more.

HOLIDAY FOR ANGLERS GIFTS

Reel in the Perfect Holiday Gifts for Anglers and Outdoor Enthusiasts!

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than by showing the anglers and outdoor enthusiasts in your life that you truly understand their passion? Finding the right gift can feel as tricky as reeling in a trophy fsh, but fear not! We’ve got some fantastic ideas that will have them casting their lines with glee.

As the holiday season rolls around, remember that the best gifts come from the heart. Whether it’s a high-tech fshing gadget, some fshing apparel or even a new boat or motor, these thoughtful presents are sure to delight the anglers and outdoor enthusiasts in your life. So, cast your line into the sea of gift ideas...you’re bound to reel in something special!

LAST CHANCE FOR GROUPER ROMANCE

Depending on where you live, December could be the last month for all grouper harvest. I think red and black grouper will still be available in Florida’s East Coast, while red and scamp grouper will be available in Georgia and the Carolinas. !is is when the bite is the best. I’ve always said that the week of Christmas is the apex of grouper shing and I’ll stand by that statement. !e month of November was on re here in the Carolinas. Even though we can’t keep gag, grouper and American red snapper have been plentiful. !e good news is the light line has been working well.

!e key to nding good bait is a tackle shop that keeps beautiful, frozen cigar minnows and sardines. !ese baits are the ticket to good bottom bites and the light line going o . Needless to say, live cigars and live sardines are extremely e ective on the light line and under the kite, but frozen ones work well also. Live menhaden and pin sh are always a smart play to have in the live well before heading o shore. If you nd live cigar minnows and live sardines, all the better, but if you don’t, at least you have those two for live baits on the bottom and for the light line.

A live sardine or a live cigar on the correct jig has a life expectancy of just a few seconds. !is is where it pays o to nd a shop that carries beautiful (frozen) bait. When you open up a box of frozen cigar minnows and see beautiful, clear eyes and yellow on the tails you’ve got a box of bites in your hands. If you have a frozen box of cloudy-eyed, mushy cigar minnows, then you might not nd what you’re looking for on the bottom or on the light line. If you nd large schools of cigars or sardines, it o en pays to spend a little bit of time to catch them. !is always results in bites, whereas the frozen minnows work most of the time.

!e Sabiki can be the most valuable player of all. Just like you use a dehooker to remove your grouper and snapper from the hook, use a dehooker to remove your cigar, minnows and sardines from the Sabiki hook. !is keeps those small needles and sharp hooks out of your hands and it’s better for the minnows and the live well not to handle them with your hands.

Don’t be surprised if you catch these sh in extremely shallow water this month. !e 66- to 68-degree temperature break can be magical this month for the light line. No telling what you’ll catch. Everything can be there, from kings to wahoo and everything in between.

I said all that to say this: Get out there with some pretty bait and go harvesting some good dinners!

See more from Tim Barefoot at www.barefootcatsandtackle.com and on YouTube @timbarefoot5698.

Tim Barefoot

Stationed strategically around the East Coast, all Suzuki RePower Centers have achieved the highest level of Suzuki certifcations to meet and exceed your repower needs.

Mastry Engine Center has received the Suzuki Marine Super Service Award and has been ranked #1 in Suzuki Marine US Sales! 60 YEARS OF REPOWER EXPERIENCE!

RePower Packages designed to best ft your needs and not stretch your budget. Financing available.

Rest assured, all Mastry Suzuki RePowers are backed by Suzuki’s industry leading 5-year factory warranty.

When Considering A Repower, Consider These Factors:

•Every Authorized Mastry Suzuki RePower Center has decades of repower experience providing proper rigging, controls, propeller matching and in water testing

•With a Mastry Suzuki RePower, owners gain improved performance, less noise and greater reliability

•Mastry Suzuki RePower’s exclusive Owner’s Edge Program*

•Mastry Suzuki RePower Centers use authentic Suzuki OEM parts and have factory certifed technicians

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED!

Since 2014, Mastry Engine Center, has been building the premiere Suzuki Outboard repower network in Florida. Today, Authorized Mastry Suzuki Outboard Centers have been exceeding expectaions in the Southeast for over two decades. Recently Suzuki Marine requested Mastry Engine Center to expand the network throughout the Northeast. Now boat owners from Maine to Florida can be assured of the best support for their Suzuki outboard repower project. All Authorized Mastry Suzuki RePower Centers provide the best options, information and package pricing for excellent performance in repower.

When you purchase a new Suzuki outboard from an authorized Mastry RePower Center you qualify to become a member of the Mastry Suzuki Owner’s Edge. Owners receive an identifcation card that provides them with important information about their Suzuki outboard motor as well as a passport to additional benefts during ownership. Members enjoy a detailed engine maintenance schedule, Mastry Suzuki RePower Trade Program and special pricing from Mastry Suzuki Partners

ENTER TO WIN

MayMadnessinKetchikan,Alaska: HALIBUT AND COD HEAVEN

NONE OF THE DEAD WEIGHT, ALL OF THE TORQUE.

Suzuki Marine USA’s DF6A revolutionizes portable outboards with unparalleled four-stroke performance and e ciency. Compact and lightweight, the DF6A is easy to transport and delivers surprising low- and mid- range torque for quick acceleration.

Random drawing to be held 12/19/25. Winner will be announced on Facebook. Winner will be notifed by email • Please allow up to 90 days for delivery. TO ENTER, SCAN THE CODE OR VISIT:

If you’ve ever dreamed of hauling in a barn door halibut or tangling with ferocious Paci!c cod in one of the most scenic places on earth, then May is your month to come !shing in Ketchikan, Alaska! e bottom !shing for halibut and cod in May is nothing short of incredible. Paci!c cod by the thousands swarm underwater sand ats and lurking halibut feed on massive bait balls of herring. It is truly is a wild undertaking below based on the amount of life ourishing. It’s primetime for steady actions, freezer!lling fun and unforgettable memories on the water.

One of the best parts about !shing in Ketchikan is just how easy it is to get to this !shing Mecca. Ketchikan services daily ights from all major cities. Just a quick layover in Seattle and your landing in Ketchikan’s international airport the very same day.

Ketchikan’s Finest Fishing Charters makes your trip e ortless from start to !nish. eir multi-day allinclusive packages cover everything: lodging, airport transfer, meals, !shing and !sh processing. In turn, all you have to think about is setting the hook and enjoying the day.

Whether it’s your !rst time !shing Alaska or you’re a seasoned angler chasing your personal best halibut, May in Ketchikan delivers. Nothing beats bottom !shing in Alaska’s !rst city when the bite is on! Book now and join us this spring. is trip makes an amazing holiday gi they will cherish forever.

Visit ketchikan shingtrips.com to learn more.

How Fishing Shapes Behavior in Youth

In a world that’s taken over by screens and instant gratification, the simple act of casting a line has become one of the most powerful tools to shape the minds of our youth. Fishing, as we once viewed as just a fun pastime, is now being recognized for its large impact on youth behavior building patience, responsibility, and emotional resilience that many new activities fail to deliver. When a child picks up a fishing pole, they’re learning way more than just how to catch fish. They’re mastering self-control. Waiting on that bite requires focus and calmness, two traits that help counter the short attention spans created by phones. Every moment spent beside the water, listening, observing, and waiting teaches them to slow down, reflect and appreciate what nature has to offer. Fishing also introduces accountability in a tangible way. Young anglers must learn to respect the regulations, care for their fishing gear, and handle fish with respect and empathy. Those lessons tend to go far beyond the water. Kids who learn to handle nature with care tend to approach people and other animals with that same sense of respect. The best influence of fishing is its ability to build character even through failure and persistence. Every missed fish becomes a chance to problem solve and practice perseverance. Parents, mentors, and youth leaders who fish with children often witness how these small frustrations evolve into teachable moments that strengthen confidence and independence. The pride of finally landing a fish after a dozen attempts becomes a quiet metaphor for life’s larger goal, work hard, be patient, and success will come. For many families, fishing is also a bridge. It opens space for conversations that might not happen otherwise. Away from Wi-Fi and distractions, children open up about school, friends, and emotions. The calmness of the outdoors encourages connection, grounding both kids and parents in a shared experience that builds trust and emotional wellbeing. At its heart, fishing is more than a sport, it’s a life lesson wrapped in fresh air and quiet water. Each cast gives our youth a little more patience, a little more purpose, and a much-needed sense of peace in an often-chaotic world.

Cooler Weather

As the water temperatures finally begin cooling down, it encourages the fish tomove around more as some fish like the cold water and others not so much. If you are going offshore, look for schools of bait being attacked by the spanish and king mackerel, and you could still run the stone crab buoy lines looking for tripletail. For bottom fishing, I like to use shrimp or small crabs as that seems to be the choice for hogfish to eat and they like the cooler waters. Sometimes, I can find them where I catch mangrove snapper as they like ledges and hard bottom. Along the coast and close to shore, reefs will be holding flounder. Sheepshead should start showing up on those nearshore reefs and ledges as well. If I am inshore fishing, I typically find redfish along the mangroves, and as the tide comes in they tend to go deeper into the roots of the mangroves. Many anglers like to still fish for them using shrimp or pinfish and whitebait if you are able to find it, and when moving back out on the grass flats target speckled sea trout. I like using a bobber and a bait under it, my preference is to use artificials, soft plastics or scented baits. If you locate an area that is very productive, try a suspending bait or a top water plug. I always bring a fly rod along as I can cast most flies that have some weight to them and the fish will attack it. Moving further inshore around the docks and bridge bumpers, there should be some good snook action, and if you get into those areas around the bumpers and piling of the bridges use a half of a blue crab and there should be a black drum to munch on that and sometimes I may even pick up a red drum using this bait.

Wit h the holidays approaching, I have Gift Certificates available for gifts for those that may be coming to visit this winter. I also provide inshore and offshore training sessions. I can also show you where you can take your boat safely without destroying the grass flats. Call me to book a trip with me at 941-979-6517 or e-mail me at captbart@alphaomegacharters.com

Christmas in Dixie

It is that time of year when the area lights up with numerous visitors and homeowners alike, returning from their summer habitats, to enjoy some of the best climate and pristine waters that Southwest Florida has to offer. It is also a time to reflect on another year gone by and a new one on the horizon. This is the time of year when returning family and friends get to relive memories and experiences of the past and forge new ones over the Christmas and New Year Holidays. Many will have the opportunity to spend time on the water boating and fishing as part of their holiday celebrations.

December is a transitional month in regards to water levels and water temperature, which for the most part, determine the most productive species to target as well as their winter locations, challenging myself and other guides to make adjustments that ensure a good fishing and catching experience. Winter months bring additional challenges from the northern and northeasterly winds.

Low water levels not only restrict access to numerous areas for most boats but they also change the location of fish. When this occurs, I begin to fish areas around docks, with current flow and deeper water, than those or spoil islands with little depth.

Migratory and reef species are affected mostly by water temperature. Fish temporarily relocate to areas that sustain their basic need of food for survival. This why in winter months fish such as, mackerel, permit, tarpon, cobia and pompano migrate south in contrast with the warmer months when they reverse their migratory pattern. Basically, they are following the food chain. Non-migratory species such as reef fish (grouper, snapper, trigger) simply move to depths that meet their need which are shallower venues. The angler’s challenge is to find them and they will be successful catching their target fish. Both migratory and reef species are following the bait with the water temperatures being the basic conduit that drives relocation.

Al l of the above begs the question: “what fish will provide the best opportunity for anglers throughout the month of December and where will they be?” It is common knowledge that sheepshead are the winter species to target as the larger ones living on the reefs during the summer months will move to shallow, inshore water depths around the rocks, docks and seawalls to spawn. However, all species are still available. The challenge is to find enough water to target them.

La rge grouper, snapper, triggerfish, grunts and other reef species will hold in depths of 85 ft. or less providing anglers a shorter distance from the outer islands to catch them. However, be aware of the harvesting requirements for every species, depending on Federal or State Waters. They change from time to time.

Redfish, snook and other inshore species will inhabit areas of current flow, pockets of depth, most likely around passes and docks. Seatrout will be in the pot holes of 3-5 foot or on the grass flats in the same depths. The techniques for fishing remain the same year around. Live or dead baits, artificial baits are all productive. Artificial baits will require the use of a trolling motor to keep moving to different locations along the shorelines and docks.

Capt. Terry’s Holiday Gift suggestions for the Inshore Angler are lighter inshore rods and reels such as;

Diawa BG3000 Series Spinning reel, loaded with 10lb. Power Pro Braided line matched to a comparable Diawa Laguna 7ft. medium heavy rod with a 10-17lb. butt rating. This is equipment for anglers wanting to really enjoy catching smaller fish but that can handle larger more aggressive ones as well or a Penn Battle 3000 Series Spinning reel, loaded with 15lb. Power Pro Brained line and matched with a comparable 7ft. Penn Battle III medium heavy rod with an 8-20lb. butt rating.

For Heavier inshore rods and reels a Penn or Shimano 4000 series spinning reels loaded with 15lb. Power Pro Braided line matched to a comparable 7 ½ ft. matching medium heavy rod with a 10-20lb. butt rating. This equipment is for the more demanding angler for longer cast and to handle and control larger fish hooked under docks, bridge piles and mangrove roots.

For the Offshore Angler, medium heavy gear such as a Diawa BG4500 Series Spinning Reel, loaded with 30lb. Power Pro Braided line matched to a Diawa Saltiga 6’6’ MH Jigging Rod with a 50-100lb. butt rating or a Shimano 5000 SW Spinning reel loaded with 30lb. Power Pro Braided line matched to a Shimano Travala 6’6’ Jigging Rod with a 50-100lb. butt rating.

The above recommendations provide equipment that will ensure the right size and comfort and the reliability to do any inshore or offshore excursion.

This is Captain Terry Fisher of Fish Face Charters wishing everyone a Merry Christmas! Check out my website at www.fishfacecharters.com. Email me at fishfacecharters@yahoo.com or call direct at 239-357-6829 to schedule a charter on my vessel or yours. I am available as ‘Captain for Hire’ on your vessel by the hour for safety, navigational, fishing locations and techniques that ensure every trip is successful.

Fly Fishing on Sanibel

The first light of dawn stretched over Sanibel Island, painting the sky in soft streaks of coral and gold. I felt the cool morning sand underneath my feet, fly rod in hand, the chitter chatter of waking shorebirds behind me. The tide was just starting to push, and the glassy surface shimmered like liquid silver. It was the kind of morning that makes you forget about everything except what’s in front of you.

Sanibel isn’t the sort of place where you rush. The island moves at its own pace, somewhere between the tide and the wind. Oddly enough, that’s what drew me as a young man to this retirement island oasis, that and the chance to sight cast to snook cruising the beach. I’ve fished my fair share from mountain streams to tropical flats, but Sanibel has its own kind of magic.

That morning, I worked the shoreline near the lighthouse, holding my casts for an opportunity to present itself. The sun was climbing, and I could see flashes of movement, ghostly shadows sliding through the surf. Snook. I stripped out line, then cast, laying the fly just ahead of the lead fish. Two quick strips, pause, and then bang. The water erupted. The fish ran straight down the beach, peeling line from my reel. For a moment, everything disappeared. No sounds, no thoughts, just the pulse of the line and the bend of the rod. The snook darted over the sandbar, then turned back toward me. I could feel the rod throb with every surge. When I finally brought her close, she shimmered in the morning light, a perfect silver green reflection of Sanibel itself.

I eased the hook free, holding her gently just long enough to feel that quick, powerful kick before she slipped away. It never gets old. By midmorning, the beach was starting to wake up: a few walkers, the smell of sunscreen, the faint hum of a boat as it headed out into the gulf. I sat on the tailgate of my truck, clacking my bare feet as if my truck doesn’t already have half the beach in it, and watched the tide dissipate to barely a trickle.

That’s the thing about fly fishing Sanibel Island. It’s not just about the fish, though the snook, tarpon, and redfish will keep you coming back. It’s about those quiet, golden moments between casts when the island reminds you to slow down, breathe, and just be there. Every trip feels different, but every one leaves you with the same thought: I can’t wait to do that again.

Alex Baumann specializes in fly fishing in the area. You can reach him directly at 704-999-0571.

3

18

19

22

23

21

22

23

25

27

Calusa Blueway

As beach traffic begins to increase for the season, there's a great spot to launch on the north side of the Matanzas Pass Bridge that gives you access to Matanzas Pass, Hurricane Bay and Hell Peckney Bay.

Sa lty Sam’s Marina is located on the southeast end of San Carlos Island. A short paddle around this side of the island places you at the west side of the mangrove maze that leads to Hell Peckney Bay. The tunnels open into small flats accessible only to paddlecraft or the smallest jon boats. Many a paddler has gotten turned around in here, so I can assure you that the Calusa Blueway markers are very reassuring once you discover them.

Paddlers may choose to cross Matanzas Pass and explore the small bay lined with mangroves in the Matanzas Pass Preserve. The preserve's paddlecraft takeout is currently closed but it's not much farther east to the Mound House. At the Mound House, you can refill your water bottles, use the restrooms, enjoy your snacks at one of their picnic tables and learn about the indigenous Calusa people.

The round trip from Salty Sam’s to the Mound House and back is about 2.5 miles. Please be cautious of boat traffic when crossing the pass. Boats should be moving slowly, but they’re still larger and less maneuverable than you.

Sa lty Sam’s asks that paddlers check in at the ship’s store and pay $10 per vehicle for paddlecraft launching. For those with multiple paddlecraft this is a good deal. The ship store is well stocked with general items you may need on the water. Anglers may want to stop at Bait N Wait before launching. They are a full bait and tackle shop that is only 1.5 miles from Salty Sam’s on San Carlos Boulevard.

After paying the parking fee, paddlers can drive to the ramp to launch. Salty Sam’s staff told me they prefer people launch from the ramp rather than from the docks and slips. The small floating kayak launch that had been there in the past was a casualty of Hurricane Ian.

I respectfully suggest that paddlers find a spot near the ramp out of the way to unload and prepare their gear. Please do not block the ramp any longer than necessary. There are a few grassy areas to set your gear while you prep and park.

With easy access to scenic bays, mangrove tunnels and convenient on-site amenities, Salty Sam’s is a great launch point for paddlers exploring the waters around Matanzas Pass and Hell Peckney Bay.

Kayak Fishing

The coastal environment here in S.W. Florida is super corrosive to fishing gear. Let’s face it, we are at water level in our kayaks and we are subject to far too much salty water. Next time you’re out, just see how much water is landing in your kayak and consider what impact that has on your gear. If you are not paying special attention to your gear it will begin to fail.

Here is my routine for combating salt intrusion. First let me say

that if you are hosing your reels off with water, it is a huge mistake. Just think for a moment that all that salt is now deluded with fresh water and is going to find any crevice or gap and enter your reels. I do recommend that you line all your rods up and hose off all the guides and handle, just do not spray the reels! Once they are hosed off you must dry wipe the eyelets so that they don’t corrode the between the metal eye frame and the line inserts. After every trip I spend about an hour at my bench cleaning every reel thoroughly with one or two products. Either Super Slick or CorrosionX will work. First unwind the drag knob, remove the spool and wipe down the inside with a clean rag, next re-wipe with a CorrosionX or SuperSlick saturated rag to coat the surface with protectant. Add a small drop of gear oil onto the drag spring. Clean the exterior of the spool with the same protectant (do not touch the line), wipe the drag knob and add reel gear grease to the rubber gasket. Add a drop of oil onto the drag washers under the drag knob. Next, clean the reel body under the spool and add a drop of oil to the spindle and the drag gear on the spindle. Remove the handle and the opposite nut cap, add one drop of oil in each opening but not more. Make sure you have wiped down the entire body of the reel with the protectant making sure to get a rag in all the hard to reach spots! Before replacing the handle and opposing nut cap add gear grease to the threaded shaft and cap threads. This gear grease will act like a liquid gasket keeping any water from entering through the screw threads. Next add oil to the bail arm connections and the roller bearing where the line rolls off the spool.

By now your beginning to think that this as a lot of time for each reel but it gets faster and easier as you begin to make a routine out of it. We spend a lot of money on our gear so it’s in our best interest to make sure it lasts as long as possible.

It ’s A Wild World-Get Out There!

@ paddlinandfishin

December’s Opportunities

This month can be kind of a tricky month which mainly depends on the weather. If we have a warmer month we can go one way, and if its cooler we go another. So, let's start with a warmer month. If the weather continues to stay warm keeping our water temps in the 70's the snook bite will stay pretty consistent. Areas such as deeper creeks, residential canals and deep cuts in the mangroves will be holding good numbers of fish. You can also expect to catch a few reds and trout also. If we are not so lucky and mother nature sends some cold fronts our way dropping the water below 70 degrees, for the most part the snook bite will certainly shut down until spring. This is normally a sign to get the jig-heads out and start shrimp fishing. The fishing can

be very good this time of year and fishing potholes and deep points can be very effective. Normally, the reds and trout move into these areas. If you can find some areas with a limestone bottom the sheep-head will be around also. The color of the jig is based on personnel preference, myself I am a chartreuse guy. I like to use one just heavy enough to make contact with the bottom. So, I guess we just have to sit back and see what mother nature has in store for us. If you would like to experience some of Southwest Florida's finest fishing give us a call or send an email. All of our trips are private and customized to fit you and your party's needs.

AshleyHeinz’s bigslotsnook onEnglewoodBeach.You gogirl! Jumbosnookonthenight biteinEvergladesCity!

HoosierAngler,Jay Heidenreichhorsesin monstersnooklike atrueBoilermakerin GasparillaBay!

JennaKioNorthFortMyers caughtabass.

KaiSujevich15ofNaples,FL sentinsomebeauties! Here’s oneofhisnighttimecatches!

Myers,KoryKioofNorthFortFLw/anicepeacock bass4pounds.

MattShields-Drumroll please…Giantblackdrumin theshallows!EvergladesCity.

ScottWeedcaughtthis33” beautifulsnookandreleased itinBonitaSprings,thought itwouldbetherightthing todo.

HoosierAngler,Tripp Cremernailsbigsnookat BocaGrande!

Lightweight, Ultra-Portable Roll-Up Fishing Boat

The Sea Eagle® Stealth Stalker™ 10 is now available with a lightweight, super portable, high pressure drop stitch oor. With this new in atable oor, the total weight of the boat is 13 pounds less than the traditional wooden oorboard. The oor rolls up with the boat making transporting and storing a breeze. The seats attach with 4 double d-ring straps for quick & easy set up. Use the STS10 with 1 or 2 anglers in bays, lakes, rivers, salt marshes - wherever the sh are.

STS10 Pro Lite Package includes everything you see below plus a storage bag for the boat, pump and repair kit. Add an electric or gas

LUNA NUEVA BY COSTA DEL MAR

If you’re searching for an ideal holiday gi! for a woman who enjoys spending time on the water, consider Costa Del Mar’s Luna Nueva polarized sunglasses. ese women’s shades use color-enhancing 580 lens technology to reduce haze and boost contrast and clarity. Choose between glass (580G) lenses for outstanding sharpness and scratch resistance, or lightweight polycarbonate (580P) for impact protection—either option o ers a high-de nition viewing experience.

Designed with simplicity in mind, Luna Nueva makes a great companion for anglers, featuring an elegant butter y-shaped frame cra!ed from ultra-thin material. is results in one of the slimmest pro les in Costa’s collection, delivering a sophisticated and distinctive appearance. Adjustable nose pads allow custom t ensuring maximum comfort and retention. costadelmar.com/en-us/sunglasses/6S9127-198537009143

MICRO RODS MAKE

A GREAT HOLIDAY GIFT

s the holidays roll around, anglers everywhere are dreaming of that perfect new piece of gear to add to their arsenal. If you are looking for a compact, fun, and travel-friendly rod this holiday season, check out micro rods from Bean Pole. e Bean Pole takes the micro rod concept to the next level. It’s compact, durable, and designed for real anglers who appreciate simplicity with performance. It’s easy to store, fun to use, and rugged enough to handle both saltwater and freshwater adventures. Perfect for impromptu casts or for those who like to keep a rod handy wherever life (or travel) takes them. ey also have a vibrant fun color!

is Holiday season, skip the ordinary gi!s and give something unforgettable, a Bean Pole. Compact, exciting, and travel-ready, it’s more than just a micro rod, it’s an invitation to adventure!

Order at www.beansport shing.com while supplies last.

STOCKING STUFFERS FOR BASS ANGLERS WHO HAVE EVERYTHING

Shopping for a bass sherman isn’t easy.

Most of us already have enough rods and tackle boxes to ll a garage, and we’re picky about every lure we throw. But that’s what makes stocking stu ers the ideal gi!s: they are small, useful gi!s that actually get used on the water.

An absolute can’t miss item is shing line. A spool of Su x line is my recommendation, whether it’s 832 braid or Advance uorocarbon. is is one of those gi!s that every bass sherman truly appreciates. It’s the kind of thing we always need but hate spending money, making it a perfect stocking surprise.

If you want to add some color and action, grab a few packs of CrushCity so! plastics. eir Bronco Bugs, Cleanup Craws, and Freeloader minnows at out catch sh, and you can’t go wrong with their proven colors. Toss a couple of those in a stocking and you will win Christmas morning.

For the gear junkies, think about tools and tackle organization. A pair of Rapala pliers, some hook removers, or one of their waterproof tackle boxes are small but mighty gi!s that make a big di erence on the water. Every angler loves having their gear dialed in, and Rapala makes stu that actually holds up. Don’t forget about gi!ing some comfort on those long, sunny days. Chums makes a ton of great accessories like sunglass retainers, oating keychains, and waterproof phone pouches. es are perfect little add-ons that make life on the boat a little easier and can save a few pair of sunglasses from sinking.

At the end of the day, the best gi!s for a bass sherman aren’t necessarily the biggest or ashiest. Instead, they’re the thoughtful, practical items that make time on the water smoother, easier, and just a little more fun. By throwing a few of these suggestions in a stocking – and maybe adding a gas station co ee card for good measure- you’re sure to have any bass angler smiling wider than a ve-pounder at weigh-in.

Happy Holidays, Y’all!

Capt. Tyler Woolcott is a professional tournament angler, as well as owner/operator of Florida Big Fish Adventures, providing bass and saltwater guided shing trips. Reach him at (386) 235-7388 and check out his website: www. oridabig shadventures.com.

IGFA 2025 WORLD RECORDS RECAP

As 2025 winds down, let’s take a minute to honor a few amazing anglers who set IGFA records this year. e International Game Fish Association (IGFA) has recognized several new 2025 world records, including a black n snapper caught by Michael McFadden o the coast of Florida, a cobia by Koby Duncan in Australia, and an Arctic char and common carp length records set by Jay Siemens and Rowan Lytle, respectively in Canada and Connecticut.

Many new U.S. records for freshwater species are also included, such as the landlocked striped bass by Pamela Moss in Georgia and the Alabama bass, also by Moss in Georgia. Some 2025 IGFA US Saltwater Records include a 27 lb. red grouper by Zachary Daniel Murray o Florida, a 31 lb. 3 oz. greater amberjack by Julia Berstein out of Key West, and a 55.9 in. great barracuda by Nick LaBadie on y tackle o Key West. ese were all certi ed and submitted to the IGFA, with the grouper and amberjack being o cial weights and the barracuda being an all-tackle length record. e IGFA is publishing its 2025 World Record Book and has also added two new species—barred sand bass and spotted sand bass—to its catch-and-release All-Tackle Length World Record Category.

Will you be among these elite anglers in 2026?

For a complete database of 2025 record holders, visit igfa.org.

(1)

Durable boat lifts expertly designed with Florida in mind.

ShoreStation hydraulic boat lifts are a reliable choice for coastal residents and boating enthusiasts alike. Their strong construction, made with corrosion-resistant materials, allows them to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including sun, storms, and saltwater damage. ShoreStation provides a steadfast solution for protecting waterfront investments, o ering peace of mind to owners in the Sunshine State.

Under Deck Boat Lift
Four Piling Boat Lift
Deck Over Boat Lift

REVOLUTION™ Series Canopy Cover

Equipped with exceptional weather resistant fabric and breathable SunTex 80 woven mesh ends for maximum protection and durability, the REVOLUTION™ Series Canopy is the most innovative canopy

Quickly Secures Boat

Made from the highest quality materials, our innovative hydraulic boat lift is one of the fastest and safest lifts on the market today. When you have a hydraulic lift, there’s no need to worry about wind and waves getting in your way. This lift will give you con dence to safely land and secure your boat in less-than-ideal conditions.

Solar Battery Charging System

Never miss another moment on the water. Power your lift with clean, free solar power. Our speedy 20 watt charger features solar regulator drainage protection, saving your battery from permanent damage caused by overcharging.

On Our Wish List...

AN EPIC TRIP TO FISH AND ATTEND THE CRUCIAN CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL IN THE USVI

Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, the US Virgin Islands embody a harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural vibrancy, and laid-back serenity. ese islands are more than just a picturesque getaway; they are a living testament to nature’s rhythm and resilience, e ortlessly in tune with the world around them.

With no passport required for U.S. citizens, from the moment you arrive, the islands’ natural rhythm is palpable. e gentle sway of palm trees, the soothing sound of surf crashing against sandy shores, and the vibrant melodies of local music all echo the heartbeat of this tropical paradise. e islands’ lush landscapes, with their verdant hills and crystal-clear waters, mirror the steady pulse of life that sustains the local ecosystems and communities alike.

e US Virgin Islands’ environment is a symphony of biodiversity with world class shing and diving. ese natural elements are not static; they dance in harmony, in uenced by the tides, wind, and seasonal changes— further emphasizing the islands’ intrinsic rhythm. is delicate balance underscores the importance of conservation e orts, ensuring that future generations continue to experience the islands’ natural cadence.

Culturally, the US Virgin Islands are equally in tune. e music, dance and festivals re ect a vibrant heritage rooted in African, European and Caribbean traditions. e spirited calypso beats and reggae rhythms are expressions of life's ongoing dance—celebrating resilience, community and joy. ese cultural expressions are an extension of the islands’ natural rhythm, showcasing how human life here moves seamlessly with nature’s ow.

In a world o!en dictated by chaos and rapid change, the US Virgin Islands serve as a reminder of the beauty of being in sync with nature’s tempo. eir natural, cultural and ecological rhythms o er a blueprint for sustainable living and harmony. As travelers and residents alike continue to embrace this rhythm, they uphold a legacy of balance—one that celebrates life’s natural ow and the enduring spirit of these remarkable islands. In the US Virgin Islands, being in rhythm isn’t just an ideal; it’s a way of life.

SPEND LE TIME ON TASKS More Time Fishing

It’s no fsh tale when you run with a John Deere. You can get everything done faster and easier, so you get more time on the water. Plus, our special offers make them the catch of the day.

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

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