Coastal Angler Magazine | June 2025 | Boston Edition

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'A Place of Impact and Promise'

Quincy’s Four Centuries of History and Culture are Woven into the Fabric of America’s Story

The City of Quincy, Massachusetts, is celebrating a remarkable milestone in 2025: the 400th anniversary of its settlement. Few American cities can claim a legacy as rich, complex, and impactful as Quincy’s...

Now, the city is honoring that story with a year-long celebration: Quincy400.

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George K. Regan, Jr. Publisher Boston Edition
Julie Kahn Executive Vice President/ Strategy, Sports & Media

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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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FATHER’S DAY: THE PERFECT TIME TO FISH WITH YOUR KIDS

Father’s Day is one of the best opportunities to take your kid !shing.

It’s a celebration of the powerful bond forged when dads pass down the timehonored tradition of !shing, a tradition that stretches back thousands of years. While !shing once put food on the table out of necessity, today it still feeds something deep within us. at ancient connection to the water lives on in every angler, whether they realize it or not.

Inviting your son or daughter to !sh on Father’s Day regardless of their age makes a timeless statement. It bridges distance, mends di erences, and rea rms love in a way few other gestures can. Even if the day ends without a single bite, the act of !shing together creates a bond that words can’t express. It’s not about the catch. It’s about the connection.

ere are countless lessons a father might teach a child, but carving out time to share a quiet day on the water—free from the noise and distractions of modern life is one of the most meaningful. By saying, “Let’s !sh together today,” you’re also saying, “Let me share who I am with you.” And that’s a gi no one forgets.

Don’t have a son or daughter? No problem. Take any kid !shing this Father’s Day. Whether it’s a neighbor, a niece or nephew, or a friend’s child, the impact is the same. You’re passing on something real, something rooted in tradition, and something that could change a young life forever.

KINGFISHING

ON A SHOESTRING BUDGET

Targeting king!sh during their annual migration season o Florida’s east coast is a predictable event that coincides with the annual migration patterns of the Atlantic stock of king!sh. During the summer, anytime from midMay through August, when the water is warm enough for the kings to stick around, we all have a great chance of catching a tournament class king!sh, at almost anyplace we decide to !sh.

King!sh can be caught anywhere from the mouth of an inlet, on out to 200 foot depths, and that means that almost any seaworthy vessel can, and does, go a er these !sh during the “mostly calm” summer days.

Everyone has heard about the GJKT tournament winner that Fred Morrow caught at the tips of the north rocks, or Bob Johnson on his Traveler who won the aggregate, with two nice !sh, also right o the beach. What do these teams have in common? ey won in small boats with very little overhead, with very short runs to their !shing grounds. But they did their homework and had a plan, and went straight to where they were going to !sh. Because let’s face it, the small boater isn’t going to run all over the ocean chasing !sh that have already been caught. And those are not the only examples, this same scenario takes place every year

in tournaments up and down the Atlantic coast.

Another way to !sh on a budget is to not get caught up in the latest and greatest gear. Sure, you need quality equipment, but one can good used reels from friends, who are upgrading, or from yard sales or even at swap meets at your local o shore club.

As far as rods go, if you know what “feel” you like on your rods, you can !nd o name rods at sidewalk tent sales at your local tackle store, that perform as well as a custom rod, for a fraction of the cost!

To avoid buying that expensive bait, become pro!cient with a cast net! Kings get fat and happy on a steady diet of “pogies”, or menhaden found along our beaches. You need a heavy fast sinking net to have all the bait you want for a day’s !shing. No pogies, you say? Don’t worry, many king!sh over the years, have fallen to other baits than just a pogy. A pound of shrimp on tournament day could very well be a day saver. Croakers are great king baits, as well as blue runners and blue!sh. Ribbon!sh can also be used but are best caught a few days before and brined so they are easily trolled. If you like !shing the Party Grounds always have some sabikis on board. ese are small feathers on small hooks on a special rig that will catch fresh sardines and cigar minnows on most of the o shore reefs and wrecks.

Don’t be intimidated when you sign up to !sh any tournament. You have the same chance to catch a tournament winning king!sh as the next guy. And you do not have to drop big bucks to do so. Just do your homework, pre-!sh as much as possible and, come tournament day, have a plan and stick to it…and we’ll see you at the weigh scales!

Capt. Steve ompson is Chairman of Jacksonville Marine Charities / Greater Jacksonville King sh Tournament and a 40-year successful veteran of competitive king sh tournaments all over the Southeast. Contact him at (904) 251-3011 or email: gjkt@king shtournament.com.

Command The Water With Lowrance & Simrad

Whether you’re chasing trophy fish or charting your next offshore course, your time on the water deserves the best in navigation and marine technology. Defender brings you UNBEATABLE PRICES and EXPERT SUPPORT on Lowrance and Simrad electronics—trusted by professionals and weekend warriors alike.

The choice for powerboaters and sportfishers. Get crystal-clear sonar, radar, and navigation that keeps you locked on target.

–– George Thomas, Noted watchmaker & historian

Greenlight to A Deep Dive Without Going in the Red

Every year in Basel, Switzerland, the world’s best-known luxury watchmakers gather to display their new timepieces. It’s a great event for spotting timepieces that standout–– in performance and in personality. We saw one impossible to ignore: a precision dive watch with an arresting green dial. But we also saw the five-figure price tag and knew we could bring our customers that exact same precision and stand out appeal for a whole lot less. The Stauer Evergreen Diver is that timepiece.

Built like a submersible battleship with a stainless steel case, caseback, and band, the Evergreen Diver is water-resistant down to 660 feet or 20 atmospheres, a feat facilitated by a hardened crystal and screw-down crown.

Green On Your Wrist AND In Your Pocket. You could pay an awful lot elsewhere for this verdant virtuoso, but the majority of the cost is in the big designer name upcharge. We think those guys are all wet. This is how you own a top-of-the-line dive watch without helping pay for some marketing guy’s yacht.

Satisfaction Guaranteed or Your Money Back. Wear the Evergreen Diver for 30 days. If you’re not completely happy, send it back for a full refund of the item price.

Limited Reserve. A watch of this caliber, with a price that won’t drag you under, takes 6 months to create and won’t stick around for long. Call today!

Happy Father's Day!

Father’s Day 2025 (on Sunday June 15) is the perfect opportunity to unplug, unwind, and enjoy some quality time with Dad—and what better way to celebrate than by heading out for a day of fishing across the scenic waterways of eastern Massachusetts?

From the tidal flats of Cape Cod Bay to the quiet bends of the Concord and Ipswich Rivers, eastern Massachusetts offers countless spots where anglers of all experience lev-

els can cast a line and create lasting memories. Whether you and Dad are fly-fishing for trout in shaded forest streams or dropping a line for largemouth bass in peaceful freshwater ponds like Walden or Spot Pond, there’s a sense of calm and connection that only a day on the water can bring.

Saltwater fishing is just as rewarding, with the coastlines of the North Shore, Boston Harbor, and Cape Cod pro-

viding excellent opportunities to reel in striped bass, bluefish, or even flounder. A charter boat out of Gloucester or Plymouth can make for an unforgettable deep-sea adventure.

What makes fishing on Father’s Day so special isn't just the potential for a great catch—it's the chance to share stories, soak in the natural beauty of Massachusetts, and spend uninterrupted time together. Bring along

a picnic, pack your favorite gear, and don’t forget the fishing license (which is easy to obtain online or at local tackle shops).

So this Father’s Day, skip the crowded brunch lines and give Dad the gift of time well spent. Head to the water, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the simple joy of fishing—just the two of you, one cast at a time!

Julie Kahn President, Regan Marketing & Media

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From its Indigenous origins and Colonial roots to its pivotal role in shaping the United States, Quincy’s story is deeply woven into the fabric of the nation.

Settled in 1625, Quincy is perhaps best known as the birthplace of Presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams, and patriot John Hancock. These towering figures helped shape the nation and contribute to Quincy’s identity as “The City of Presidents.”

But Quincy’s legacy is broader and deeper. Long before European settlers arrived, Native American communities—especially the Massachusetts people— thrived here, sustained by the region’s coastal richness. Over the centuries, Quincy became a hub of innovation and industry, from granite quarries and shipyards to the creation of the modern diner. Today, Quincy is a thriving, diverse community just south of Boston, nestled

Quincy400: A Celebration 400 Years in the Making

between the Blue Hills and 27 miles of scenic coastline. It is a city that honors its past while embracing a forward-looking, inclusive future.

Now, the city is honoring that story with a year-long celebration: Quincy400

“This is a truly historic year for the City of Quincy as we celebrate 400 years of rich history, cultural significance, and community pride. From our founding to our critical role in shaping the nation, to the vibrant, welcoming city we are today—Quincy has always been a place of impact and promise. Quincy400 is more than a celebration of the past; it’s a reflection of who we are and where we’re going. With an exciting lineup of events, surprises still to come, and the full participation of our residents, businesses, and community partners, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We invite all to join us throughout the year as we honor our past and look boldly to our future.

Mayor Thomas P. Koch

Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Present Get Ready for an Unforgettable Year of Celebration in Quincy!

From sun-soaked summer festivals to magical winter moments, Quincy’s 2025 event calendar is packed with “can't miss” experiences for all ages!

Quincy400 is both a commemoration and a celebration—a recognition of 400 years of people, ideas, culture, and innovation. Events will span the entire year, reflecting the city’s dynamic and diverse character.

• The nation’s longest-running Flag Day Parade – June 14, a national holiday: This year’s celebration promises to be the most spectacular yet, featuring elite national bands and drum corps, dazzling floats showcasing Quincy’s storied history, spe-

cialty performance units, public safety and veterans’ color guards, a fleet of gleaming classic cars, and over 1,000 enthusiastic, flag-waving children. The excitement continues with the dramatic raising of a massive 50’x80’ American flag, stirring live musical performances, and a breathtaking fireworks finale. Adding to the excitement, beloved former Grand Marshals will return to help lead this unforgettable tribute to patriotism and community spirit.

• Quincy400 Maritime Festival | July 4–7. A free adventure at an epic three-day waterfront extravaganza! Celebrate Quincy’s stunning 27 miles of coastline at Marina Bay with live music, thrilling maritime demonstrations, delicious eats from top restaurants and food

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trucks, a “Touch a Tugboat” experience, a spectacular boat parade, and much more.

• Dazzling Drone Light Show, Watch the night sky come alive with a jaw-dropping drone light spectacular — a mesmerizing fusion of technology and artistry that you’ll be talking about all year.

• Major Concert Events You Won’t Want to Miss! Get ready to rock, sway, and sing along with national music legends:

• August 2: Country music icon Darius Rucker hits the stage with rising star Austin Williams

• August 3: Rock & Roll Hall of Famer John Fogerty brings down the house, with special guest Hearty Har

• Signature Lecture Series! Engage your mind with powerful insights from bestselling authors and renowned historians. This compelling series kicked off with the beloved Elin Hilderbrand and continues with thought-provoking voices all season long.

• Quincy’s Living History! Immerse yourself in captivating educational and historical programs, featuring inspiring guest speakers, interactive museum exhibits, and dynamic displays celebrating Quincy’s rich heritage.

• Historic Heritage Day | September 27 - Step

back in time as the city transforms into a vibrant celebration of its storied past. Enjoy guided tours, living history displays, and family-friendly fun across Quincy’s most iconic landmarks.

• Hot-Air Balloon Festival | September 20- Look to the skies for a colorful, high-flying celebration! Enjoy tethered hot-air balloon rides, live music, and delicious local fare in a festival atmosphere.

• Annual Food Truck Festival | October 4 - Savor the flavors at Quincy’s most delicious day of the year! With an unbeatable lineup of culinary delights, plus live performances (to be announced), this is a foodie favorite.

• Holiday Magic Lights Up Quincy!

• November 28: Feel the wonder at the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Hancock Adams Common

• November 29: Look to the skies as Santa arrives by helicopter – a holiday entrance like no other!

• November 30: Celebrate the season at the joyful Annual Christmas Parade, where the holiday spirit marches on!

And That’s Just the Beginning! With so much more on the horizon, 2025 in Quincy promises a year of celebration, culture, community, and unforgettable moments.

From symposiums to street fairs, public art installations to cultural celebra-

tions, Quincy400 will honor every facet of the city’s legacy—highlighting its Indigenous heritage, revolutionary history, immigrant communities, and contributions to American industry, politics, and culture.

Looking Ahead Together

Quincy400 promises to be a once-in-a-generation celebration—an opportunity to reflect, unite, and envision the future together.

While some major events are still in development, organizers promise exciting surprises throughout the year.

To stay updated on the full calendar of events, visit Quincy400.com and follow the City of Quincy and Q uincy400 on social media. As Mayor Koch put it, “It’s going to be a year to remember—and a celebration w orthy of this extraordinary city.”

Image Credits: Lisa Aimola, City of Quincy

1. Jamaica Pond (Jamaica Plain)

This tranquil pond is stocked with trout and sunfish, making it ideal for young anglers. The northern and western shores are particularly productive.

2. Charles River Esplanade (Back Bay)

A convenient urban spot where kids can fish for bass, sunfish, and catfish. It's also great for a family picnic along the river.

Fishing and Boating Spots for Kids

3. Spot Pond (Stoneham)

A family-friendly location with an annual fishing festival offering free equipment rentals and expert tips.

4. Cutler Park (Needham)

This 772-acre park features boardwalks and trails, providing a scenic backdrop for fishing and canoeing.

Best Boating Spots for Kids

Courageous Sailing (Jamaica Pond & Boston Harbor). Offers youth sailing programs that teach leadership, teamwork, and environmental stewardship.

Community Boating Inc. (Charles River Esplanade). Provides sailing lessons and rentals for all ages, fostering a love for the water.

Piers

Park Sailing Center (East Boston)

A community sailing organization offering programs for various skill levels, with views of the Boston skyline.

Boston Yacht Club (Marblehead). Features junior sailing programs that introduce kids to sailing fundamentals in a supportive environment.

These locations provide excellent opportunities for kids to engage with nature, learn new skills, and create lasting memories during their summer break.

New Bedford Whaling Museum Debuts Multi-Sensory Underwater Soundscape and Art Exhibit

“Overheard Underwater” features the work of multimedia artist Perri Lynch Howard

This spring, dive into the transformative experience of Overheard Underwater, a captivating multimedia installation in the New Bedford Whaling Museum’s Center Street Gallery by artist Perri Lynch Howard. On display starting May 17, 2025, the exhibit merges archival underwater soundscapes with original maritime illustrations and paintings.

“This exhibition beautifully bridges art and science, offering a deeply sensory experience that invites visitors to connect with the sea in a new and meaningful way,” says Naomi Slipp, Douglas and Cynthia Crocker Endowed Chair for the Chief Curator and Director of Museum Learning.

“Combining the scientific elements of bio-acoustic recordings with the emotional aspect of Howard’s art allows for a more holistic understanding of marine life and the environment in one of our most unique installations to date.”

For this site-specific project, Howard dove deeply into the museum’s interdisciplinary collection and explored New Bedford’s active working waterfront. The artist spent a significant amount of time working with thousands of bio-acoustic recordings made over 70 years by oceanographer William A.

Watkins, in collaboration with William E. Schevill and others at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. These recordings consist of more than 60 species of marine mammals in a wide range of geographic areas. Howard combines this audio with her own hydrophone recordings to create unique soundscapes paired with her own artwork and designs that visually map sounds into energetic landscapes of peaks and valleys, sourced from the Museum and other maritime heritage collections and spectrographs

The installation offers an opportunity to experience the underwater acoustic soundscape of the busy New Bedford Harbor, the calm quiet of the Arctic sea, and the sounds and calls of marine mammals, taken in the wild. Visitors will enter into and experience the aural realm of our oceans, forging connections with marine mammals and gaining a better understanding of underwater ecosystems, noise pollution, and human impact of their environment.

Originally from Marblehead, Massachusetts, Howard is represented by the Seattle Art Museum Gallery and Smith and Vallee Gallery. Her projects have received support from numerous residencies and granting agencies including Artist Trust, the Montello Foundation, Civita Institute, Willapa Bay AiR, PLAYA, Vashon Artist Residency, Kingsbrae International Residency for the Arts, Jack Straw Artist Support Program, Centrum Foundation, the Atlantic Center for the Arts and the Mamori Sound Project, among others. Howard has completed projects in Italy, Portugal, Brazil, Canada, and in South India, where she was a Fulbright Scholar.

The exhibit is included with Museum admission, and on display through November 11, 2025.

About the New Bedford Whaling Museum

Anchored in the story of New Bedford’s whaling industry, the Museum documents and shares the diverse stories of this vibrant maritime region and its people, both bygone and current. Founded as the Old Dartmouth Historical Society in 1903, the Museum’s rich history reveals an intimate relationship with the communities it serves. Today, the New Bedford Whaling Museum ignites learning through explorations of art, history, science and culture, rooted in the stories of people, the region and an international seaport. The New Bedford Whaling Museum is the leading cultural institution in the region, attracting more than 100,000 visitors annually.

The cornerstone of New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, the Museum is located at 18 Johnny Cake Hill in the heart of the city's historic downtown.

2025 Massachusetts Saltwater Fishing Regulations

2025 Massachusetts Saltwater Fishing Regulations

Massachusetts' Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) has established specific regulations for recreational saltwater fishing in 2025 to ensure sustainable fish populations and responsible angling practices.

Recreational Saltwater Fishing Permit

All anglers aged 16 and older, regardless of residency, are

required to obtain a recreational saltwater fishing permit. The annual fee is $10, with free permits available for residents aged 60 and over. Anglers under 16, fishing from shore or private vessels, do not need a permit. For-hire vessel passengers are also exempt. Details on saltwater (and freshwater!) fishing licenses can be found at https://www.mass. gov/info-details/ license-types-andfees.

Species-Specific Regulations

Striped Bass: The legal size limit is 28" to less than 31". Anglers may retain one fish per day. Circle hooks are mandatory when using natural baits.

Tautog: The minimum size is 16". The daily bag limit varies by season:

• April 1–May 31: 3 fish

• June 1–July 31: 1 fish

• August 1–October 14: 3 fish

• October 15–December 31: 5 fish

Only one fish exceeding 21" may be kept per day. Cod: In Southern

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New England waters, the minimum size is 23", with a daily limit of five fish from September 1 to May 31.

Summer Flounder (Fluke): The minimum size is 16.5" for shore-based anglers and 17.5" for vessel-based anglers. The daily bag limit is five fish from May 24 to September 23.

Black Sea Bass: The minimum size is 16.5", with a daily bag limit of four fish from May 18 to September 3.

Additional

Regulations

Sharks: The minimum size for most sharks is 54". Circle hooks are required when targeting sharks with natural baits.

Crabs: The daily limit for blue crabs is 25, with a minimum size of 5" in shell width. Egg-bearing crabs must be released

Conservation Measures

Anglers are encouraged to practice catch and release, especially for species with size or bag limits. Proper handling techniques should be employed to minimize stress on released fish.

For detailed infor-

mation, including species profiles and gear requirements, visit https://www.mass. gov/info-details/recreational-saltwater-fishing-regulations

Now accepting charter requests for summer 2024

I don't leave my house to fish without a polaris style popper. They cast a mile. They're easy to use.(if it's splashin’, it's working!) And the hookups on the surface are for sure the most exciting way to catch a bass and bluefish from a boat, or the shore. Easily one of my favorite day time lures to throw.

For me, casting distance is usually the deciding factor when reaching for one of my top water options. For shallower water, or situations when the fish are particularly picky, I'll go to a floating popper allowing me to work the lure slowly, and even let it float motionless. When the water depth isn't a factor or distance is the most important factor, I

Making a Splash

have a couple 3, and 4 ounce poppers that sink fast, requiring a quicker retrieve and more rod action to keep the lure splashing on top. The heavier lures cut through wind much better than any floating options I've found. The fast sink also seems to be the better choice in heavy surf. I've even seen them successfully jigged in the canal as an attempt to show the fish a unique presentation.

C olors will vary depending on the bait you are trying to match but bone color variations seem to be a winner. No matter the season, weather, or moon phase bone colored topwater lures catch fish. Yellow is hard to beat for targeting bluefish, or matching any size bunker.

I always attempt to vary the speeds and styles I work the lure. Rod tip up,slow reel and a stiff ,steady twitch of the rod tip creating a large splash is the most common way to retrieve the plug. Try mixing up the reel speed. Chang-

ing the timing of the rod twitches. And even letting the lure float for long periods with an occasional hard twitch to create a big splash. The idea of these presentations is to replicate a medium size bait fish feeding on smaller bait at the surface. Predators like bass and blues are triggered by the prospect of an easy meal, and attack. Occasionally coming completely out of the water to take your of-

fering. If a fish misses, or you drop a fish, continue on working the lure. Don't give up on a cast till the lure is back at your feet.

Find yourself a popper that matches up with your rod and allows you to feel confident casting. Remember, even when there are no signs of fish activity on the surface, fish will come to the top to smash your offering! Keep casting!

Go Fishing, Go Aluminum

It’s springtime in New England! The birds are chirping, the fish are jumping, and it’s finally warm enough to go outside without multiple layers. In other words, it’s high time to break out the rod and reel and head to your favorite lake.

For me, one of the great things about spring is that I get to celebrate the warm weather at Klem’s Department Store’s annual Klem’s Spring Festival in Spencer, Massachu-

For starters, the annual cost of running them is nothing in comparison to glass boats, especially when you include any unexpected costs due to damage. In the majority of northeast waters you’re likely to run into rocks, boulders, stumps, gravel shorelines and perhaps docks that aren’t adequately padded. But I've setts. I’m so lucky to have these events to go to because I get to talk to fishing fans and share my thoughts about fishing, my favorite gear, techniques and so on.

This year I showcased a Lund Renegade 1775 at the festival, so I was really excited to talk about boats—specifically, aluminum boats— with anyone who would listen. Why aluminum?

never had to worry about any of that in an aluminum boat. I've hit plenty of the obstructions without suffering any damage other than a couple of dings and scratches.

Secondly, the overall performance and features of these aluminum Lund boats are perfect for a guy like me with a family, as I need something

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versatile, something that can handle multiple uses. In the same weekend I can use it for hardcore fishing, tubing with the family, and a leisurely sunset cruise. If you’re in the market for a new boat and thinking that aluminum might work for you, one of the best places to start is tinboats. net. You can learn a lot there on several TOP brands, get your research done and head to your local dealer. The boat I have on order is a Lund 1875 Pro-V Bass with Humminbird electronics and Minn Kota trolling motor. This thing is a serious game-changer, with a 200 horsepower, 4-stroke Mercury engine that was unveiled at the Miami Boat show earlier this year. I'm not in the engineering/

manufacturing world but for the longest time, four stroke engines were typically a couple hundred pounds heavier. How they got the new fourstroke to be the same weight as its twostroke predecessor is beyond me, but they did and it’s loaded with power and still delivers better fuel economy.

I’m very fortunate to have a great relationship with Matt from Hank’s. Located in Cherry Valley, MA, They are the oldest, continuous Mercury dealer in the country, so they really understand the business and know how to help people get the right boat for their lifestyle. For example, if you’re someone who’s looking to enter fishing tournaments, you should definitely check out the 1775 Renegade. Seventeen feet long,

the 1775 boasts a 95inch beam, which is typically found in 19-foot boats. Plus, if you pair it with a 90 Mercury engine you’ll have yourself a 45 mph ride that can handle any condition.

One thing I can say for sure is that 1775 was a huge hit at Klem's. A lot of the anglers who came out to talk fishing were pretty excited about it, but it was the kids who really enjoyed climbing in and checking it out. More than any-

thing, that’s what gets me really jazzed each spring, when you can see the next generation learn about fishing, boating and the great outdoors.

So if you’re looking for an exciting and practical way to spend the spring and summer fishing or any other recreational activity out on the water, think about putting yourself in a nice “tin boat”. Maybe I’ll see you out there!

Until then, God Bless and Go Fish!

A striper bass caught on Buzzards Bay Cape Cod MA.
Photo Credits: John Goll

Top 10 Best Fishing Spots Near Quincy, Massachusetts

1. Caddy Memorial Park

2. Squantum Point Park

3. MWRA Nut Island

4. Fore River Fishing Tackle5.

5. Wollaston Beach

6. Pope John Paul II Park

7. Pond Meadow Park

8. Webb Memorial State Park

9. Houghton's Pond Recreation Area

10. World's End

Plum Island Surfcasters

Sales Representative

Coastal Angler Magazine, Boston

JOB TYPE: PART-TIME

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE: FISHING & SALES

Coastal Angler Magazine, Boston, a company of Regan Communications Group, has an immediate opening for a Sales Representative for our Boston location.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Selling all advertising (both print and web)

• Directing content development (for print, website and social media)

• Procuring and editing copy from 5-8 writers monthly

• Managing the layout and collaborating on graphic design

• Creating concept and copy for print ads

• Delivering and managing the distribution of 10,000 copies monthly

• Maintaining all vendor/client relationships

REQUIREMENTS:

• A keen knowledge of the fishing industry.

• At least two years of sales experience.

• Candidate must be able to work effectively in a demanding and fast-paced environment.

For more details contact: Ashley Boiardi aboiardi@regancomm.com 617-488-2842

Club Meeting:

Plum Island Surfcasters meets on the third Tuesday of each month.

Paul Roell of the Massachusetts Chapter of the Native Fish Coalition will present “Dinosaurs Among Us: the Sturgeons of New England”.

Check our website (www.plumislandsurfcasters.org) for more details on upcoming events.

Salisbury, MA Senior Center (behind the fire station), 43 Lafayette Rd (Route 1), Salisbury, MA 01952.

Meetings at 6:45 pm | Fishing seminar at 8:00 pm Free for all club members. $5 admission for Non-members

Boating is as a part of American culture as baseball, hot dogs and apple pie! Starting as early as 8 years old, my father entrusted me to run a solo on one of our lakes close to home. Our first family boat was a 12-foot, Sears’s aluminum v hull boat with a 5 horse Elgin engine. A rig that was the beginning of my boat fishing growing up on the Connecticut River and its tributaries. A very simple boat, for a simpler time, that created many fond memories for me. From then, I would have never imagined where this ride would take me…

All Boats are not created equal. Getting the boat that will work for your waters can be challenging because there are so many choices. First and foremost is the budget. Kayaks have been increasing in popularity because they will go

Inland Boat Adventuring!

into all kinds of water and the Kayak itself is very affordable. A jet boat will go almost everywhere a Kayak will go but is very expensive. Either way you choose, picking out a craft is a very personal choice. Accessibility, budget, and function are key topics to think about before purchasing.

B oating Necessities can be another area to plan out. So you have bought yourself a boat now what? First and foremost is safety!

As always let someone at home know where you will be!

Here is a short list of items to think about…

• Boaters Safety Course

Follow all rules and direc tions in your boat manual and local boating laws

• Life Preservers

• Throw Bag

• First Aid kit (with EpiPen)

• Flares

• LED Flashlight

• Whistle

• Phone (stored in a floating, water proof container)

• Food and Water

• Tool Kit

• Personal Effects (Rain Gear, Sun Block, blanket, sun glasses, hat)

• Current boat Registration

Fully operational boat trailer (Winch, Lights, Tires, Struc tural Integrity, brakes)

Trolling motors are essential. There is so much more to a trolling motor than what the name implies! These things are great providing you are using the correct configuration with the proper application. What? ! Trolling motors can be very useful but need to be purchased according to your specific boat and specific use. To attempt to keep it simple, here are a few important factors that can help you select the

proper system…

First and foremost give a call to the trolling motor company’s technical support. They can configure the proper system for your specific boat and use. Decide on a 12, 24 or 36 DC volt system

Determine shaft size –measure your boat per manufacturer recommendation.

Salt or freshwater version?

Salt-water Trolling motors are always built more heavy duty (More expensive too!)

GPS system – essential for spot lock, controlled back drifting, controlled trolling in a straight line

Whatever Boat you choose, just remember, there is no perfect boat that will do everything. In fact, that’s why several people have more than one! Determine how and where you will use a boat and choose wisely. Stay safe and have fun!

BOSTON JUNE EDITORIAL

Fun Things To Do This Summer in Boston

7:30am 8:11am 8:53am 9:38am 10:25am 11:15am 12:07pm 12:42am 1:41am 2:41am 3:41am 4:38am 5:33am 6:26am 7:18am 8:08am

7:35pm 8:18pm 9:04pm 9:53pm 10:47pm 11:44pm –1:01pm 1:56pm 2:54pm 3:51pm 4:46pm 5:40pm 6:34pm 7:27pm 8:19pm 9:11pm 10:04pm 4:36pm 5:33pm 6:28pm 6:47am 7:45am 8:42am 9:34am 10:20am 11:02am 11:44am 12:25pm 1:06pm 1:47pm 2:27pm 3:09pm 3:53pm 4:40pm 5:31pm 6:22pm 6:48am 7:49am 8:51am 9:52am 10:48am 11:45am 12:41pm 1:35pm 2:26pm 3:15pm 4:04pm

5:09am 5:08am 5:08am 5:08am 5:07am 5:07am 5:07am 5:07am 5:07am 5:06am 5:06am 5:06am 5:06am 5:06am 5:06am 5:06am 5:06am 5:07am 5:07am 5:07am 5:07am 5:08am 5:08am 5:08am 5:09am 5:09am 5:09am 5:10am 5:10am 8:14pm 8:15pm 8:16pm 8:16pm 8:17pm 8:18pm 8:18pm 8:19pm 8:20pm 8:20pm 8:21pm 8:21pm 8:22pm 8:22pm 8:22pm 8:23pm 8:23pm 8:23pm 8:24pm 8:24pm 8:24pm 8:24pm 8:24pm 8:25pm 8:25pm 8:25pm 8:25pm 8:25pm 8:25pm 8:24pm

As school vacation begins in mid to late June across the Boston area, it’s the perfect time to encourage kids to get outside and explore the natural world around them. Outdoor recreation plays a crucial role in children's physical health, mental well-being, and social development—especially when they’re taking a break from screens and structured school days. One of the most rewarding ways to enjoy the outdoors is through fishing and boating, both of which are easily accessible throughout Greater Boston.

From the Charles River and Mystic Lakes to Jamaica Pond and Castle Island, the region offers countless spots where kids can cast a line or paddle through calm

waters. Fishing teaches patience, focus, and an appreciation for local ecosystems, while boating builds confidence, coordination, and teamwork. Many of these locations also offer youth programs and equipment rentals, making it easy for families to get started. Plus, time spent on the water is a great way for kids to connect with nature and create lasting summer memories.

Whether it's catching their first fish or simply enjoying the sunshine with friends, outdoor experiences like these are invaluable during summer break. They foster independence, spark curiosity, and keep kids active, happy, and engaged. Get outside and enjoy the summer!

GO DEEP(ER)

I’ve written quite a few articles on the tactics I used to catch grouper on the edge and inside the edge with bait in a decoy jig in the past, but now is a good time to push out a little further to see what’s up in the 350 to 500+ foot depth range. !is type shing may require you to change gears on your thought process and/or tackle, but you may be pleasantly surprised with the results.

First o , you will want to use a spinning rod with backbone and a lighter braided line. I’m not going to suggest any tackle manufacturer for rod, reel or line, but the line in the jig is the most important part of this equation. I know this sounds crazy, but you can get away with braid, a small is 20 pound test connected to a short 6-foot shot of uorocarbon leader, and catch the big boys from the deep. When you sh ledges, wrecks and rock homes, you have to use heavier tackle to coerse the grouper and big snapper out of the structure, but in the deep the sh tend to congregate around bait, and there is very little structure out there for them to get you in. !e bait out there consists primarily of squid—the universal bait for all the seven seas of this planet, period. Squid are present at all depths, from the surface at night to their migration back to the deep by day; just ask any sword sh. Ha!

!is deeper water shing may also require a change in electronics. In order to mark the sh and bait you need to have enough power to send the signal and

get a return. You can run all over creation trying to mark sh or bait in vast areas of water, but having the correct electronics will assist in this greatly. Once you start marking the blue-speckled screen on the bottom, you know you’re in squid. I’ve always said it, but when you nd the bait you found the sh. Once you mark the bait, more than likely, it will be squid and it’ll be time to drop in the correct jig.

I’ve made several videos using the 4 ounce (so plastic) Squid Jig, but I’ve also had a 6 oz. size made. A 10 inch mold cra ed squid, trimmed properly, can be very e ective at times. Fish like a champ on the 6 ounce headed down deep. !e jig stays perfectly horizontal and jumps like the 4 ounce, and everything down there sucks it up. I’ll be publishing videos soon on this.

I’ll close with this: nd the bait and you’ll nd the sh...using the correct electronics. Once you nd the bait/ sh, drop in the correct jig that imitates what they eat on a daily basis and you’ll get the bite. And one more very important note. Pay close attention to the MPAs, which are marine protected areas, and seasons you can sh in them. You need to be well informed of where you are when you nish shing and what you could put in the cooler. You have to play by the rules.

Check out Tim Barefoot’s YouTube channel and website, barefootcatsandtackle.com.

CAST LURES IN A MITZI TOURNAMENT 17

EMPTY TANK?

TIPS FROM A PRO

FISHING A BIG WORM

hile there are many ways to target bass, one method consistently stands out— shing with a big worm.

Worm shing may not be the ashiest technique, but it allows you to present your bait from a distance and work it slowly—ideal for tempting big, cautious females that ignore faster presentations.

One of my go-to techniques is casting a Texas-rigged stick bait. It’s a common tactic, but many anglers waste time casting at dead water. I focus on high-percentage areas, such as isolated patches of grass or lily pads. Even when the sh aren’t visible, they o en hold tight to this type of cover. Similar results can be achieved by targeting wood or rock. Make multiple slow retrieves through these areas for best results.

I prefer a larger 6” stick bait in dark colors like black and blue tip. For weights, 1/16 or 1/8 oz keeps the presentation subtle and natural. I recommend 17–20 lb uorocarbon, which o ers strength without sacri cing stealth—braid can be too intrusive here.

To cover more water and locate active sh, I switch to a big speed worm. While it’s a popular technique in Florida, where I predominantly sh, it works well across the country. !e bait’s vibration drives bass crazy, making it an excellent search tool. Once I nd sh with this method, I slow down and ne-tune my approach with other techniques. For stained water, I like darker colors like junebug; for clearer water, I use green pumpkin with ake. Weight ranges from 1/8 to 1/4 oz depending on depth and wind. Fluorocarbon in the 15–17 lb range is ideal here too.

Another e ective presentation is the wacky rig. It’s a more subtle approach and shines in pressured waters. Like with the Texas rig, I cast this bait weightless to isolated cover. I use lighter line and a spinning setup—typically 10–15 lb leader—adjusting based on cover density. In dirty water, I stick to dark colors; in clearer water, I go with more natural tones.

Flipping a worm is another technique I use, especially when there’s a lot of heavy cover. While not as stealthy, ipping allows you to place the bait precisely where other rigs can’t reach. I use large Senko-style baits, braided line, and heavier weights (3/8 to 3/4 oz) to penetrate thick vegetation. It’s perfect for pads, long banks, and heavy wood or grass. !e key is to sh slowly and thoroughly, putting your bait where others haven’t.

Rod and reel setups vary slightly depending on the technique. For most casting and ipping styles, I like a longer rod—around 7’6”— with medium-heavy to heavy action. !e 13 Fishing Omen Series has a few ideal models. I pair these with a high-speed baitcasting reel like the Concept A 7.5:1, which helps pull sh out of thick cover quickly.

For the wacky rig, I downsize to a 7’3” medium-heavy spinning rod. It o ers enough backbone to move sh but also provides the sensitivity and exibility needed when using lighter line. A spinning reel with a smooth drag is crucial. I recommend the 13 Fishing Axum, which o ers the control and power necessary for nesse shing around cover.

!ese worm shing techniques consistently produce. Whether you’re casting to isolated cover, ipping into thick vegetation, or working a speed worm through open water, there’s a big bass out there waiting to bite. I’m excited to put these methods to work—and hope they help you land some giants too.

Tyler Woolcott is a professional tournament angler and guide. Check out his website at www.tylerwoolcott shing.com.

WHY BUY NEW WHEN YOU CAN RENEW?!?

STATE RECORD FISH TITLE BROKEN THREE TIMES THIS YEAR!

For the third time in less than a year, Georgia has a new freshwater !sh state record spotted sun!sh!

Josh Forsythe of Homerville, GA (Clinch County) landed the newest record catch of 0 lb, 13 oz on May 5 from the Suwannee River. is almost 9-inch catch beats the previous state record tie of 0 lb, 12 oz, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division (WRD).

“My 5-year-old daughter and I were !shing for bream on one of my favorite rivers, the Suwannee, when I caught this spotted sun!sh,” said Forsythe. “I have been !shing this river for more than 15 years and it is one of my favorite places to !sh for good-sized bream, especially spotted sun!sh. I recommend waiting until river levels are below 4-foot and using top water bugs to catch giants, but a beetle spin or even a cricket or a worm on a cork will work.”

Spotted sun!sh are found in the Ocmulgee, Oconee, Altamaha, Ogeechee, Ochlockonee, Suwannee, St. Mary’s, Satilla and Savannah River basins. When angling for them, WRD recommends using worms, crickets, small spinners, ies and popping bugs.

“Maybe hearing about that state record tie for spotted sun!sh !red up some folks to land a new record – and we love to see it,” says Scott Robinson, WRD Chief of Fisheries. “Are you the next state record holder? Georgia has the best variety of angling opportunities across the state so Let’s Go Fish Georgia!”

NC CERTIFIES NEW VERMILION SNAPPER RECORD

North Carolina‘s Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Marine Fisheries recently established a new state record for Vermilion Snapper (Rhomboplites aurorubens).

Colby Shaw of Newport caught the 7-pound, 4-ounce sh o Morehead City on April 18, 2025. !e previous state record was 6-pounds, 9-ounces landed out of Ocean Isle in 2009.

Shaw was shing in his own vessel, o shore south of Beaufort Inlet when the sh struck his cut bait. Shaw made quick work of reeling in his state record sh, landing it using his Shimano rod and reel with 65-pound braid.

Shaw’s sh measured 23.5-inches fork

to the fork in the tail) and had a 17-inch

sheries sta at the Morehead City Headquarters

!e

Division of Marine Fisheries.

Bill Dance Signature Lakes O er Impactful Improvements to Tennessee’s Fishing Waters

Representatives from Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, and Tennessee State Parks celebrate the ribbon cutting of the Bill Dance Signature Lakes project at the Bassmaster Classic in Knoxville on March 25, along with the project’s namesake. Photo Courtesy of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development:

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