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navigating peace of mind
THE IMPORTANCE OF BOAT INSURANCE
Embarking on the open water is an exhilarating experience, flled with the promise of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a weekend cruiser, protecting your vessel with proper insurance is not just a choice—it’s a necessity. Explore the reasons why every boat owner should prioritize boat insurance for a worry-free voyage.
Unpredictable waters
The open water can be unpredictable, with unexpected storms, collisions, or other potential accidents. Boat insurance can give you fnancial protection if there is damage to your vessel, providing coverage for repairs or replacement.
Damage and injury
Accidents on the water can result in damage to other boats, docks, or even injuries to passengers. Boat insurance offers liability coverage, which can pay for damages or injuries you’re liable for while boating, up to specifed limits, and lawsuit costs if you’re sued. This includes damage you cause to another watercraft or if someone on or near your boat is injured and you’re found to be legally responsible.
Theft and vandalism
Unfortunately, boat theft and vandalism are realities that boat owners face. Boat insurance has comprehensive and collision coverage that can protect you against events outside of your control, including theft and vandalism.
Incurred medical payments
Accidents on the water may lead to injuries for you or your passengers. Boat insurance offers a range of optional medical payments coverage limits, helping to cover medical expenses if you are in an accident or someone is hurt on your boat, regardless of fault.
Peace of mind for fnancing
If you fnanced the purchase of your boat, most lenders require insurance coverage to protect their investment. Having boat insurance not only fulflls these requirements but also gives you peace of mind knowing that your fnancial interests are safeguarded.
Navigational fexibility
Some water municipalities and marinas may require proof of insurance for docking or accessing certain areas. Boat insurance allows you the fexibility to explore different destinations without worrying about entry restrictions.
Emergency towing and assistance
Progressive boat insurance can include optional Sign & Glide® On-Water Towing coverage. If your boat is disabled or breaks down on the water, Sign & Glide® pays for on-water towing, jump starts, soft un-groundings, and fuel delivery.
Wreckage removal
If your boat sinks, Progressive boat insurance will cover the cost of removing your boat from the water (if removal is legally required).
Investing in boat insurance is not just about protecting a valuable asset; it’s about safeguarding the memories, experiences, and joy that come with your on-water adventures. Don’t let unforeseen circumstances disrupt your journey—navigate with confdence, knowing that Progressive boat insurance has you covered. Ensure a smooth and worry-free voyage, because when it comes to your boat, peace of mind is the ultimate luxury.
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In Alpine Helen, GA Freshwater Fun Abounds
Nestled in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains of North Georgia against a backdrop of forests and river banks, the bustling Bavarian alpine village of Helen o!ers a wealth of shing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels.
By Unicoi Out tters
Trout shing is a highlight in the Helen area, with rainbow, brown, and brook trout abundant in local waters. Anglers can explore various shing experiences:
• High-Elevation Wild Trout: Tackle small creek wild trout in the serene mountain streams.
• Stocked Streams: Fish in streams replenished by the Georgia Wildlife Resources Division, o!ering both catch-and-keep and catch-andrelease options.
• Smithgall Woods State Park: Reserve a spot to pursue trophy trout in this pristine park.
• Private Water Access: Book guided or unguided trips on exclusive sections of the Chattahoochee and Soque Rivers.
#e optimal trout shing seasons are spring (March-May) and fall (October-November), with cooler water temperatures and comfortable
A L PINEHELE N , GEORGIa • A L ELEHENIP N , aIGROEG • BUCKET LIST 2025
air conditions. Winter shing is also rewarding for those prepared for colder conditions.
For bass enthusiasts, the Helen area o!ers diverse shing experiences:
• River Fishing: Target native shoal bass, spotted bass, redbreast sun sh, and bluegill in the Chattahoochee and Chestatee rivers.
• Lake Fishing: Explore lakes like Burton, Seed, Rabun, Chatuge, and Lanier for largemouth bass, spotted bass, and sun sh species.
#e Helen, GA region is also home to three species of native redeye bass: Chattahoochee, Bartram’s, and Coosa bass. #ese colorful and spirited sh are best targeted from April to September. Anglers can pursue these species as part of the Georgia Bass Slam.
And, worth noting, Helen is an excellent destination for family shing adventures:
• Unicoi State Park: O!ers opportunities for
kids to trout sh in Smith Creek, bream sh in the lake, and enjoy activities like hiking to Anna Ruby Falls, zip-lining, kayaking, paddle-boating, and archery.
• Lake Burton Trout Hatchery: A short drive from Helen, this hatchery allows visitors to sh for stocked trout at Moccasin Creek State Park, explore wild trout streams upstream, bream sh at the lake shoreline, and hike to Hemlock Falls.
Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, Helen, GA o!ers a diverse range of shing experiences and is a worthy destination to add to your bucket list.
Unicoi Out tters, established in 1994, is the Helen, Ga area’s premier y shop and guide service, providing expert guidance and quality gear to enhance your shing experience. Visit unicoiout tters.com to learn more about available trips, gear, and to book your next shing excursion. To learn more about Helen, GA, visit helenga.org.
MOUNTAIN STRONG
By Ben Martin, Editor in Chief
Chimney Rock Village, North Carolina was decimated by last year’s rare hurricane surge in the Rocky Broad River. Decimated. All ve of the village’s bridges, 30 percent of the small businesses, most of Main Street to Bat Cave, the village’s two campgrounds, over 35 RVs, and over 30 homes were washed away. With only one road in or out of Chimney Rock, no power, no public services and winter coming on, this little mountain village of 125 residents banded together to help each other. #ey immediately rolled up their sleeves and began the process of survival and renewal.
Always one of this writer’s favorite trout streams, Chimney Rock Village and it’s meandering Rocky Broad River was an annual sojourn for me and many anglers throughout the country.
I recently visited Chimney Rock and had the opportunity (privilege) to speak with the town’s mayor, Peter O’Leary, about the village’s reconstruction e!ort and how truly self-reliant these mountain folk are. According to Mr. O’Leary, volunteer groups like Spokes of Hope and the 101st Airborne showed up with much needed supplies and the Chimney Rock community, along with the volunteers, began the process of moving forward; volunteers like Shane Zoccole, Barbara Meliski, Joe from Wyoming, the whole Spokes of Hope crew immediately started pitching in.
#e river has taken a somewhat di!erent route through Chimney Rock. Some say its course now resembles its course from the mid 1800s when residents rst began settling the Hickory Nut Gorge. Today, crews are hard at work everywhere you look, roads are in and the future looks bright for a return to a new form of reality for both the residents as well as visitors. And while the course of the river has morphed, the sh haven’t gone anywhere, and while the riverfront buildings will invariably change, the beauty of the
mountains and the serenity and superior trout shing of the Rocky Broad River, along with the spirit of the residents will likely never be diminished. For that we wholeheartedly embrace the moniker of “Mountain Strong” for everyone involved in this heartfelt e!ort to reclaim and restore this beautiful mountain village.
Command The Water With Lowrance & Simrad
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during the initial feeding frenzy.
If you have outriggers, trolling 4 lines is pretty straightforward. If your riggers have dual clips, the highest set clip will hold your longer lines. If you only have single clips, use them for longer lines with rigged ballyhoo, and run two chuggers from the gunnels, set closer to the boat.
If you dont have outriggers, you can use shorter rods or bent-butts for short lines near the back of the boat, and run two longer lines from taller trolling rods, set behind them midship, or just keep it simple and run two or three lines. #e most important rule of setting a spread is that lures that dive deeper should be set as shorter lines, running closest to the boat, while lures that skip the surface will be your longest set lines. #is gives you the ability to turn the boat without risking tangles. If your short chuggers are exactly the same, they can be run at identical lengths, otherwise, stagger them appropriately according to their weight and depth they run through the water.
By Capt. Quinlyn Haddon
or new boat owners with a vessel and captain capable of getting o!shore, targeting mahi is a great choice for rst-timers who are wanting to push into the o!shore shery.
Mahi shing doesn’t require any predetermined coordinates, and anyone can head out there and nd them. Depending on your location and time of year, you can start looking for signs of life as shallow as 100’. #is time of year in the Florida Keys, you may have your best luck past 500’.
As you make your way o!shore, your hunt begins immediately. Your head should be on a swivel, scouring near and far for the telltale signs of mahi activity. Current edges, weedlines, debris, baitsprays, and diving birds found within the
desired depths, are all worth checking out.
When you have found one of these potential mahi zones, you will initially troll the area, and then move into casting at the school once you have hooked up to a sh.
Depending on your boat’s set-up, you can get the job done trolling 2-5 lines. It really isn’t necessary to go overboard with a mahi spread as they have a tendency to tangle lines, and a majority of your catching will be done a$er you have hooked up to a single sh. Once you have hooked up on the troll, you will have to clear all the other lines to prepare for casting at the school. If you have too many lines to clear, you may miss your opportunity for multiple hookups
If you want to run a $h line down the center, you can choose a long line that increases your chances of catching tuna. #is rod should be placed up high on the center of the boat in the rocket launcher and should have a very light lure that skips the surface. Alternatively, you can run it short from the transom, with a lure that dives deeper and increase your chances of catching wahoo.
If you opt for the short $h line, be aware that running anything with treble hooks is not recommended for targeting mahi. Not only do ip like rabid snakes when in the boat, but as they jump and shake when hooked, they can send that lure %ying back at you if they are successful in freeing themselves. Choose a wahoo lure with single hooks if you are running this type of spread.
If you go with a long line as your $h line, be mindful that you will likely catch more weeds this way. #is is a better option in open water while trolling under birds rather than weedlines. It also makes cult to make tighter maneuvers. Always make wide turns, and speed up through them to keep the lines tight and maintaining the lure’s action.
Once you’ve hooked into a mahi, slow the boat but keep it in gear while you clear the other trolling lines. Bring the hooked sh close to the boat, but leave it swimming in the water as it will act like a chumbag to bring his buddies up to casting range. Grab your spinning rods with 50-80# leader and an 8/0 j hook, toss on a live or chunk of bait and cast out behind the hooked sh. Let back, occasionally stopping the line with your nger and giving it a little twitch and then continuing to free-line it back. When you get a bite, give the sh a few seconds to eat awnd then close your bail and reel. Once you have all your rods hooked up with sh, start taking them into the boat one at a time and casting back into the school, holding multiple hooked sh in the water as you start rotating them out.
If you aren’t quite ready to go solo yet, give Sweet E’nuf Charters a call to book a mahi catching trip and we’ll teach you everything you need to know to make the mahi fear you.
Happy hunting!
Capt. Quinlyn Haddon guides with Sweet E’Nuf Charters out of Marathon, e Florida Keys. (504) 920-6342. www.captainquinlyn.com; IG: @captainquinlyn
Trivia
SOUTHPORT FISHING REPORT
With the fishing season now in full swing, July will show up with the usual sweltering heat and afternoon thunderstorms. With that comes tougher water conditions due to temps and fresh water coming from our rivers here in the Long Bay Area. The Pogies still thick on the beach will mean one thing, TARPON!!! Fishing a short leader of 60lb floro with a 2-3 oz egg sinker Carolina rig around the pods can produce one of the hardest fighting fish we get to catch. The Tarpon will push up to and inside the Cape Fear river also. We will still be seeing Spanish and scattered Blue fish on the spoon trolling and light tackle sight casting with False Albacore mixed in. The King Mackeral bite will generally move offshore to the 50-60’ mark where cooler thermoclines will school fish up for some fast furious action. We will also have the bailer and some gaffer Mahi pushed into the 15-20 mile range with those temps and a good chance a Sailfish will pop up as well. Ballyhoo and dead Cigar minnows work well along with slow trolling live Pogies. Work the live bottom ledges and structures where the larger predator fish will be hanging around the bait pods. Remember to always stay hydrated and use sun protection out there. Also, never forget your PLBs and EPIRBS when heading offshore. Tight lines and fare seas!!! Catchem UP!!!
CAPT. AARON Salty Southern Adventure saltysouthernadv@yahoo.com
Southport, NC - Jul 2025
Cape Lookout Bight, NC - Apr 2025
WRIGHTSVILLE FORECAST
July and August can be difficult, but we must learn how to make the best of it. Here we go again with completely ridiculous “seasons” for Gag Grouper and a “no season” for American Red Snappers when they are beyond plentiful. Ask any diver, or better yet, get your own camera and drop in to see who’s home in some of your favorite places.
You’ll be shocked!!!
One of my friends, who’s a serious diver, told me the last time he went to shoot a couple Gags for dinner, he had a hard time finding an open shot at the Gag(s) he wanted because the American reds were so thick. Sorry, I got off on a rant, but… The way I look at fishing is don’t ask them to bite … make them bite!
Don’t blame me if you’re not getting Grouper bites using your chicken rigs, three-way swivels with bank sinkers, and flutter jigs. Granted you’ll catch plenty of Grunts, pinkies, and Seabass using chicken rigs and cut bait, but if you’re going Grouper fishing, go specifically fishing for Grouper! Like I said before, don’t ask them to eat it, make them eat it. The Decoy Jig does exactly that. Gag Grouper are off-limits this month so you’ll need to go deeper to go Scamp fishing, Scamps go crazy over a live pin fish on a Decoy Jig. If you have access to productive waters near a fish cleaning station, set a pinfish trap and take pinfish with you from the marina, and of course, a box or two of frozen cigar minnows. Groupers consider pinfish, sailors, grass grunts, and all the little snappers egg eaters. If for no other reason, they eat them to kill them so they will not eat their eggs. The other reason a live pinfish is good bait is because it eliminates all the trash bites. Not talking trash about a Grunt, pinkie or Seabass, but that’s not what I’m fishing for.
If you get a bite on a live pinfish, chances are, it’s something worthy of going in the cooler. Find a big stack of Beeliners, cigs and/or sardines and fish a pretty bait on the bottom around it and you will certainly get bites. All the time you’re fishing on the bottom keep a light line out, there’s no telling what will bite this time of year. When the water gets hot, Wahoo are everywhere and nowhere. You never know what’s going to eat the light line this time of year. Wahoo, sailfish, Yellowfin and Blackfin will all come inshore (closer than you may think).
Another fish commonly overlooked is the African pompano. The African pompano can be very picky and can be as picky or more picky than the Gags and Scamps. The bulk of their diet is made up of squid, but they will readily take live cigar minnows and live sardines on the bottom. A lot of African Pompanos are caught down near the tower by King Mackerel fisherman slow trolling menhaden in shallow water during the hottest months of the year.
Wrightsville Beach, NC - Jul 2025
Jake Harmon said his 35” scamp grouper fell victim to a 240 gram slow pitch jig.
Matt Nicholson landed this massive 52” black drum fishing around Figure Eight Island.
Iziah Sain Kure Beach Sandbar Shark
TOPSAIL FISHING FORECAST
There’s a lot of things we take for granted in life. The ability to spend time on the water, in the woods chasing our favorite prey or enjoying our favorite pastimes. This past week I had the privilege of taking a gentleman on his very last fishing trip. He had been admitted to hospice care and only been given a couple more weeks to live. He passed a few days ago and family said all he talked about was this last trip. At first, I was concerned about how I would get him out of the wheelchair and into the boat, and, if he would even be able to tolerate the heat, which was in the 90s. With the help of North Topsail Beach firemen (who happened to be at ramp training) we were able to get Mr. Chris in the boat. Mr. Chris was an avid outdoorsman before his health went south. We knew he wouldn’t be able to make it too long, so I hit some areas I knew we should see some fast action and it worked out perfectly. Mr. Chris caught several upper slot Redfish. He was so weak he couldn’t stand so we had to give him a hand landing them, but we got it done. Now I see people fighting their first Redfish all the time, but this was different. I was watching this man looking death straight in the face having a blast knowing it would more than likely be the last time he would be able to enjoy the outdoors. Keep in mind he can’t stand or anything but those few minutes when he was hooked up each time you could see and feel what it all meant to him. You could feel the light and excitement. I guess it got me to thinking about how we all live so fast and take so many things for granted. Something as simple as jumping on the boat to fish a few hours or just go out to dinner with your wife and kids. I guess what I’m saying is slow down and take it all in. You never know when it could all end, when that last fishing trip could be, when that hookup on an upper slot Redfish or Speckled Trout could be your last, or the last time you kiss your wife goodbye as you leave for a hunting trip. With all the technology and everything we have at our fingertips, just make sure you slow down and take time to smell the fishes. Make every cast count.
CAPTAIN ALLEN JERNIGAN Breadman Ventures Guide Service 910-467-1482
Christopher Hosea Martin July 21 1955-May 28 2025
New River Inlet, NC - Jul 2025
The 28th Annual KWLA Tournament was nothing short of spectacular, delivering an unforgettable day on the water and smashing previous records. With 220 boats competing and an incredible 145 billfish releases, this year officially goes down in the books as the most productive tournament in KWLA history.
The billfish action was non-stop:
•63 Blue Marlin
•65 Sailfish
•16 White Marlin
The leaderboard remained tight throughout the day, but it was Carterican that surged to the top with a double grand slam plus extras, releasing 3 blue marlin, 3 white marlin, and 2 sailfish, to win $111,563.
Following Seas followed closely in second with 3 blue marlin and 1 sailfish, earning $24,862, just edging out Outnumbered, who matched their release count and claimed third place and $16,575.
A special shoutout to Team Harvey, who won the Dolphin WTA Division with a 49.8 lb mahi, earning a $108,800 payday. It’s moments like these that truly showcase the fun, sport, and camaraderie the KWLA is all about.
This year’s tournament wasn’t just a competition, it was a celebration of passion, perseverance, and the vibrant fishing culture of the Crystal Coast. Records were broken, memories were made, and the KWLA spirit was stronger than ever.
We can’t wait to see what next year brings!
KRISHEA HOLLOWAY
You Weren't Meant to Live in Traffic
If you’re someone who dreams in tides, lives for casting lines at sunrise, and feels most at home with salt in the air, then Topsail Island and the surrounding coastal communities might just be calling your name.
Tucked along the southeastern coast of North Carolina, the Topsail Region is no longer just a well-kept secret amongst anglers and vacationers. It’s quickly becoming one of the most sought-after places to live for those craving a slower pace, friendlier faces, and easy access to some of the best fishing waters on the East Coast.
From Sneads Ferry to Surf City, Hampstead to North Topsail, this region offers a laid-back lifestyle anchored in natural beauty. Here, morning commutes might involve a walk on the beach. Work-from-home means lunch breaks spent paddleboarding or casting into the sound. And weekends? They’re for casting
a line, soaking up the sun, or just kicking back with a cold one and your toes in the sand.
The best part? You don’t have to sacrifice modern amenities or affordability. With a mix of new developments, historic homes, and investment-worthy rental properties, there’s something for every stage of life; whether you’re planting roots, buying a second home, or finally making the move to your “someday” spot.
Military families love it for the proximity to Camp Lejeune and Stone Bay. Retirees love it for the community feel and low property taxes. And families, entrepreneurs, and outdoor lovers? They come for the lifestyle and stay for the people.
Growth in the Topsail Region has been steady and intentional, blending small-town charm with thoughtful development. From locally owned coffee shops to boutique fitness
studios and farmers markets, the area is growing with its residents in mind; enhancing quality of life without sacrificing the coastal vibe that makes it special. Whether you’re craving connection, adventure, or simply a place where your pace can match the tides, you’ll find it here.
As a local real estate broker who’s helped hundreds of families relocate, I can tell you: there’s never been a better time to explore life on the North Carolina coast. If you’re ready to trade traffic for tides and stress for sunsets, the Topsail Region is waiting.
Welcome to your next chapter, where every day feels a little bit like vacation.
on the Crystal Coast – Big Rock 2025 THE GRANDEST SHOW
The Grandest Show on the Crystal Coast – Big Rock 2025
Each June, Morehead City awakens to an electric buzz as the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament takes center stage. Running June 6–15, 2025, this year marks a critical checkpoint in the Triple Crown, drawing nearly 275 boats, including many newcomers braving rough offshore conditions.
With a mind-boggling prize purse exceeding $6.3 million, Big Rock is as intense as it is influential. For local businesses, tournament charters, and tourism-driven communities from Sneads Ferry to Atlantic Beach, this is the single most powerful moment on the seasonal calendar. As anglers flock here, they bring with them dreams of Marlin glory and wallets open.
On Day 1, rough seas didn’t scare off 43 boats, and they delivered — releasing 12 blue marlin, 4 sailfish, and 1 white marlin. Highlights included Gamekeeper’s first Blue Marlin release at 9:29 am and Old No. 7 landing a rare double–header on their first attempt.
But Big Rock isn’t just about sportfishing. The tournament is deeply entwined in community life. Events like the Lady Anglers Tournament, benefiting cancer research, and the Big Rock Kids Tournament, bring families together
What makes Big Rock so special is its scale: more than 200 boats enter each year, coming from all over the world to fish the ledges, peaks, and underwater plateaus just off the Morehead City port. And it’s that international draw that cements the tournament’s reputation as the premier East Coast Marlin competition.
The stakes are high. After initial release rounds, leaders chase toptier prizes: Level I–IV awards for heaviest blue marlin, the “Fabulous Fisherman” crown, Super 20 awards, and even dolphin catch winnings. Big Rock doesn’t just lure anglers—it captures a global sporting spotlight on the Crystal Coast.
At its heart, though, Big Rock is about more than trophies. Proceeds benefit charitable causes, conservation programs, and help
preserve local maritime heritage. Its impact is measured not just in fish, but in stronger communities.
If you’re a charter captain, tackle shop owner, or local restaurateur, Big Rock Week offers an unmatched opportunity. The crowds, the excitement, the media coverage— all create a marketing wave waiting to be ridden. For our readers, it’s a golden time to get local businesses in front of engaged audiences who care about quality gear, fresh food, and genuine hospitality.
So, here’s to Big Rock 2025, a week when Morehead City becomes the heartbeat of sportfishing, when offshore tension meets dockside festivity, when community pride meets worldwide attention. It’s not just a tournament—it’s the Crystal Coast’s celebration of everything we live for.
Tight lines, good friends, great saltwater.
CAPT. MIKE & KRISHEA HOLLOWAY
Coastal Angler Magazine – Coastal North Carolina Edition
City Harbor (Harbor Channel), NCJul 2025
in Morehead City
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10 Thu 6:28 3.7 6:47
12 Sat 7:37 3.7
18 Fri 6:55 3.0 7:50 3.7 1:11 0.4 1:17 -0.1 6:05 8:20
19 Sat 7:55 2.8 8:53 3.8 2:16 0.4 2:13 -0.1 6:06 8:19
20 Sun 8:59 2.7 9:58 3.9 3:21
4.0 5:24 0.4 5:12 -0.2 6:08 8:18
23 Wed 12:05 2.8 6:20 0.3 6:08 -0.2 6:09 8:17
24 Thu 4:41 3.9 5:11 4.4 10:51 0.1 11:27 0.1 6:21 7:46
24 Thu 12:47 4.0 12:58 2.9 7:11 0.3 7:02 -0.1 6:10 8:16
25 Fri 5:35 4.0 6:04 4.9 11:36 -0.1 6:20 7:47
26 Sat 6:27 4.1 6:54 5.3 12:24 -0.2 12:25 -0.3 6:19 7:48
25 Fri 1:36 3.9 1:49 3.0 7:59 0.2 7:54 0.0 6:10 8:16
27 Sun 7:16 4.1 7:43 5.5 1:20 -0.3 1:17 -0.4 6:18 7:49
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26 Sat 2:22 3.8 2:39
29 Tue 8:51 4.0 9:20 5.3 3:04 -0.3 2:57 -0.4 6:16 7:50
30 Wed 9:42 3.8 10:16 5.0 3:55 -0.2 3:47 -0.2 6:15 7:51
There’s nothing quite like the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament, and the 2025 tournament reminded us all why it’s one of the most exciting weeks in offshore sportfishing. From unpredictable weather to 2 DQs, this year had it all, but nothing topped the heart-pounding finale that unfolded on the last day.
As the final hours of the tournament ticked away, Big Trouble, a local favorite, arrived just before 3 PM and in a downpour weighed in 517.1 Blue Marlin.
Big Trouble locked in the Fabulous Fisherman prize, a cool $807,500 for the first Blue Marlin of the tournament over 500 lbs. Not bad for a few days of fishing. But they weren’t done yet.
Moments later, cheers erupted as their fish officially secured first place overall in the 2025 Big Rock as the 3pm deadline arrived and no other boats were hooked up. Total payout? Around $2.5 million. That’s right, $2.5 million for one incredible catch, made under pressure and in classic Big Rock fashion. It was the kind of moment tournament dreams are made of.
This year’s tournament saw only four blue marlins make it to the scales—a surprisingly low number for such a massive event. Two of the four Marlins brought to scale were disqualified, making the leaderboard even tighter and the stakes even higher. But despite the limited number of fish, the competition never let up.
In the end, local boats swept the top two spots, adding even more bragging rights to an already epic week on the Crystal Coast. It’s always special when hometown teams rise to the top, and this year proved that local knowledge and tight-knit crews can go toe-to-toe with big-name boats from across the country.
Big Rock 2025 will be remembered not just for the weather or the prize money, but for the pure excitement of that final day! With the tournament continuing to grow in popularity and prestige, we can only imagine what next year will bring.
Until then, hats off to all the crews who gave it their all, and a big congratulations to Big Trouble and the other winners. Whether you were out on the water or watching from the docks, it a week full of excitement here on the coast!
Fisheries MISmanagement
Well well well, the financial pressure from business owners has finally reached Raleigh regarding the loss of tourism dollars from recreational fishing along our coast.
Business owners have been screaming at the top of their lungs to their representatives that many tourists are avoiding North Carolina for fishing destinations in Virginia and South Carolina over Flounder. And now our fearless leaders are trying to imitate South Carolina law makers decisions regarding American Red Snapper regulations.
I was given permission to say what I wanted to say … so here goes. I’m going to rip the BandAid off this and just tell the truth to anyone in the public that may read this article.
Fisheries management at a federal level, and especially North Carolina fisheries management, has a long-standing crooked reputation to uphold, and it’s corrupt to the core.
My opinion of both agencies is…
“Hey look, I’m trying to put out the fire I started.”
I will say that North Carolina has shown some signs of improvement over the years but is still deeply flawed and needs a complete overhaul. Period.
Federal fisheries management is owned
and operated by (agenda driven) non-elected bureaucrats that intentionally ignore accurate information given to them and refuse to take the correct measures to obtain accurate information to manage our fisheries properly. For example, why not spend just a fraction of your multibillion-dollar budgets on underwater film studies of these areas that are in question to take accurate fish counts? Instead, they rely on phone and boat ramp surveys from people that couldn’t catch a cold, much less Grouper or American Red Snapper, and make huge extrapolations based off poor information that will in turn, affect our bank accounts. No, that would make way too much common sense.
Just keep this in the back of your mind regarding federal fisheries management… The Chevron Act. It will take time to overcome many decades of corrupt fisheries management for money, but the Supreme Court reversed the ruling on the Chevron Act, and we will slowly but surely start to get rid of these unelected bureaucrats (3 and 4 letter agencies) that are intentionally trying to put commercial fisherman, charter fisherman and recreational fisherman out of the picture. Let that statement simmer.
HB 442 regarding American Red Snapper:
North Carolina has no federal jurisdiction on this federally regulated species. The only thing we can do is regulate our state waters like South Carolina did. My applause.
HB 442 regarding Southern Flounder:
There’s not enough room in this entire magazine, much less this article to explain my feelings towards Southern Flounder
We’ve held the Flat Bottom Girls Flounder Tournament for 15 years here in Wilmington to provide (male and female) brood stock to UNCW and North Carolina State University under the direction of Wade Watenabe and Harry Daniels, respectively. These two literally wrote the book on how to grow Southern Flounder. I became interested in Wade’s work in 2001 and started the Flounder tournament in 2003. We pleaded with NCDMF for permission to start a series of
Flounder hatcheries to overcome where we are at this very moment in time. I have video footage of UNCW research associates growing Southern Flounder fry by the hundreds of thousands and only limited by space. They proved the fingerlings could be grown by the millions with the correct square footage of tanks and budget to support the staff.
I have to stop here because I’m out of room in this article and I could go on and on, but I will not. I am done with corrupt fisheries management. I’m sure they will have to do several million dollar’s worth of “research” to solve this problem. This is where the tire meets the pavement. If we would’ve had at least one hatchery in place for the last 20 years, we wouldn’t be in the position we are now. Contact your representatives and find out where they stand on these issues.
I’ll close with this statement… I’ve been fishing offshore for over 40 years, catching Red Snapper and Grouper. There has never been as many American Red Snapper as there are right now on the East Coast, and Southern Flounder populations are not in dire straits. FACT.
Recipes Grilled Shrimp with Mango and Sweet Chili Sauce
Ingredients:
20 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 mangoes, peeled and cut into ½-inch cubes
Preparation
1 cup sweet chili sauce
½ lime, juiced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped fine
¼ cup scallions, sliced fine
20 small bamboo skewers
Soak the bamboo skewers in water for at least 1 hour (this reduces the chance of the skewers burning). Combine the sweet chili sauce, lime juice, ginger and mint in a small bowl. Slice the scallions and set aside. On a clean surface, place a mango cube in between the tail and top of a shrimp. Insert the bamboo skewer through the shrimp and mango. Repeat the skewering process until all shrimp are skewered and store in the refrigerator until ready to grill. Preheat a charcoal grill (or indoor grill pan) and cook the shrimp and mango skewers. When the shrimp is close to being cooked through, glaze with the sweet chili sauce. Sprinkle with the sliced scallions and serve.
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FIND THE BAIT, FIND THE FISH
July and August will be the hottest months of the year. !e wahoo and yellow nn will be everywhere and nowhere they should be. For example, you could go up and down the edge of the break and not nd a wahoo or a yellow n anywhere, but the guy slow trolling a menhaden for king mackerel 10 miles o# the beach catches a 100-pound wahoo or the guy 30 miles o# the beach light lining a pin sh while bottom shing catches a 50-pound yellow n. None of it makes any sense this time of the year, except one thing... nd the bait, nd the sh. !e same thing applies to bottom shing. !is is the time of year to search for big stacks of bee liners, cigar minnows, and sardines. Keep an eye on the recorder when you’re running to wherever you’re going, and if you see a big stack of bait on the surface, take a minute to check it out. If that stack of bait happens to be near pretty bottom, there’s a good chance it’s a good place to sh. !is is the time of year when it is especially productive to jig live cigars and sardines and put them back out.
whatever you want to, but stay focused on the bottom. Always keep a pitch rod handy with a live cigar, mina or sardine on a small circle hook and $ourocarbon. You never know when a sail sh will swim by the boat. When it does happen, remain calm do not go screaming and running around the deck because, chances are, you will spook the sh and not get another shot presenting a bait to it. If you’re very quiet, chances are a sail sh will come right back to the boat and you’ll get a shot at hand-feeding him a cig or sardine. And just like that...you’re hooked up!
It’s always a good idea to keep one person dedicated to the Sabiki. When you have big marks on the bottom or see schools of bait on the surface, just know that every one of those minnows caught on the Sabiki turns into a bite, either on the light line or on the bottom.
Of course, I have to say all of this to promote bottom shing because I do not believe in trolling. For all the sh you’re trying to catch trolling, you can hook on the light line while bottom shing. Not only that, sh are a lot more fun to catch on light tackle from an anchored-up boat rather than with trolling gear. Do I like to catch kings and dolphin on the light line? Yes. Are they my favorite sh to eat? No! Yes, they are edible, but I prefer to eat sh from the bottom. So, keep a light line out to catch and release
Needless to say, a live cig or sardine has a life expectancy on my Decoy Jig of under 10 seconds and everything eats one on the light line.
So, go to all your normal places in July and August that traditionally hold the bait, and you will most likely nd the sh. Live bait is always the best, but don’t ever leave the hill without a box or two of frozen cigar minnows. More sh have been caught on frozen cigs and sardines, than all the other baits combined. It’s never a bad idea to take live pin sh from the marina as well; the beauty live pin sh is that not everybody down there can put it in their mouth which eliminates a bunch of trash bites.
Yes, you will have to deal with catching and releasing all the “endangered” American red snappers and gag grouper, but that’s just what you’re gonna have to do until we can get this straightened out. Learn how to handle these sh properly for a successful release and come home with some good dinners.
Check out more from Tim Barefoot at barefootcatsandtackle.com.
CAST LURES IN A MITZI TOURNAMENT 17
Tim Barefoot
In general, the trend in boating these days is bigger is better. Right? Engine horsepower is getting higher and higher, and boats are being built able to accommodate two, four, even six engines. But what about the other end of the spectrum—anglers and cruisers that are looking for the ultimate in portable propulsion? Whether you are looking for a boost for your kayak or a reliable motor for your in$atable shing boat or tender, the perfect engine should be lightweight, easy to take on and o#, easy to use and provide the range and speed for almost any conditions. It should be selfcontained, so you don’t have to deal with lugging around a fuel tank, or even have to purchase and safely store gasoline on your boat.
Electric propulsion is the way to go, but no one has really gotten the
converters, the eLite can be fully charged in around four hours. For added capability and convenience, the engine includes a USB-C output that allows users to charge and power other electrical devices. At just under three-feet in length and weighing 14.7-pounds including the built-in battery, the eLite stores easily and the one-click quick-release bracket allows for installation and removal in a matter of seconds. For exceptional portability, the tiller handle converts to a perfectly balanced carry handle. With multiple trim and tilt angles, adjustable steering resistance and sha length, and a shallow-water mode, the eLite is completely customizable. Its Smart Battery Monitoring System e%ciently optimizes performance, carefully regulating battery level, temperature, and remaining state-of-charge all displayed on an ultra-simple interface, leading to extended range, a more energy-e%cient operation and longer battery life. Built to last, it is IP67 waterproof, and is constructed of aviationgrade aluminum alloy for lighter weight and greater durability. In addition, the anti-ground auto kick-up feature protects the motor from accidental damage. Available for under $1,000, it is also the most a#ordable electric outboard in its class.
!ere’s no time like today to upgrade to the electric outboard of the future. !e ePropulsion eLite is in stock and ready to take you quietly and sustainably to your next adventure.
A PRO THROWING BIG BAITS FOR BIG BASS
TYLER WOOLCOTT
Most of the time the saying is true, bigger bait equals a bigger sh! Although elephants eat peanuts, a big bait pro le is something sh can’t resist no matter if you are shing the open ocean or the Great Lakes. I have spent a lot of time over the last few years throwing baits bigger than my old “comfort zone” sizes for bass and it is pretty special what gets curious to come look or bite them.
!ere are many di#erent types of swimbaits out on the market, but I’ll break them down into two for this article to keep it simple. You have the hard, gliding-style treble hook swimbaits, or you have so body swimbaits that is more of a steady slow reel and most of the time more weedless. !ey both have an awesome time and place to get thrown and will both attract some very big sh.
Depending on where you are in the country and the size of the forage in your lake, a normal meal for a bass is usually much bigger than you think. A 6- to 8-inch bluegill is something a two or three pound bass would have no issues at all with swallowing and eating it whole. A 10+ pounder, on the other hand, could eat bait sh such as gizzard shad up to 14 inches, which I have personally seen. Trying to exactly duplicate the larger bait sh that are in your lake in a natural presentation is the absolute best way to draw attention from sh to your arti cial lure.
Most of the time when I am throwing a gliding-style hard swimbait, my rst choice is always going to be a shad imitation. A majority of the
places I sh are full of shad and this seems to be a favorite food source for bass when available to them. Another major large food source for big bass that a lot of people forget about are crappie. I have personally witnessed some absolute giant bass in multiple lakes that feed primarily on crappie. When throwing so swimbaits my go-to imitation is typically a bluegill. Usually when I’m throwing a so swimbait I’m wanting to either creep it through grass or along the bottom, which calls for a more weedless rig. Both places bluegill typically live and the bass that feed on them aren’t usually too far away. !ere are many di#erent brands of swimbaits out there, hard and so . When rst starting out I would stick to some of the a#ordable baits that have good reviews by users and are proven to work until you build up your con dence, then start working your way up to bigger and more customized things.
When throwing bigger lures like swimbaits you typically want bigger equipment to throw them. 13 Fishing makes an awesome, very a#ordable 8-foot rod in their Defy series that can handle most swimbaits I throw. Pair this up with a 300 sized reel like the 13 Fishing Concept A3 and some 20-25 lb. Su x Advanced Fluorocarbon and you are ready to go battle with some big sh!
It’s hard to t all the info needed to explain this technique in this article, but I hope it sparks your interest to get out there and throw a big bait. !e best way to learn is to get on the water and give it a try for yourself! I tried it once and now it is one of the coolest and most fun ways I target big bass all year long.
Don’t be afraid to reach out via my website or social media platforms with any questions you may have!
Good luck out there and tight lines!
Tyler Woolcott is a professional tournament angler and guide. Check out his website at www.tylerwoolcott shing.com.
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