Coastal Angler Magazine | September 2025 | Lowcountry Edition by Coastal Angler Magazine

BIG SNAPPER GO LIGHT FOR BACKWATERS FISHING ON A SUP

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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.

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A Quiet Revolution on the Water PADDLEBOARD FISHING THE BACKWATERS

By Skye Burkhardt

In recent years, paddleboard !shing has quietly emerged as one of the most immersive and rewarding ways to !sh, particularly in the backwaters where nature whispers and big !sh lurk in shallow, untouched waters. Combining the stealth of a kayak with the freedom and perspective of stand-up paddling, paddleboard !shing o ers a unique experience that connects anglers to their environment in a deeply personal way. You become part of the environment—just another element in a quiet, dynamic system. Every ripple matters, every shadow could be a !sh. It’s !shing stripped to its essentials: a board, a rod, and your wits.

WHY THE BACKWATERS?

Backwaters—those slow-moving or stagnant tributaries and tidal creeks separated from larger bodies of water—are havens for !sh and wildlife. ey’re o en shallow, weedy, and di cult to access with motorboats, making them ideal for paddleboards. ese secluded waterways harbor species like red!sh, snook, bass, tarpon, and trout, depending on your region. e calm water allows for sight !shing and careful stalking, while the surrounding vegetation provides natural structure and cover for !sh. For anglers seeking peace, solitude, and the thrill of spotting and targeting !sh in crystal-clear shallows, backwaters are unmatched.

THE PADDLEBOARD ADVANTAGE

Paddleboards o er several distinct advantages in the backwaters:

• Maneuverability: ey can access shallow and narrow areas where boats can’t go.

• Stealth: Paddleboards glide silently, allowing

you to approach !sh without disturbing them.

• Sight Fishing: Standing gives anglers a better vantage point to see !sh and structure below the surface.

• Portability: Easy to transport and launch, paddleboards can be carried to remote areas with little e ort.

• Minimal Impact: Paddleboards have a low environmental footprint, making them a great choice for conservation-minded anglers.

GEAR ESSENTIALS

Fishing from a paddleboard requires packing smart. Space is limited, so prioritize:

• Rod and Reel: A medium-action spinning setup is versatile for most species.

• Tackle Box: A compact, waterproof tackle box with your go-to lures, so plastics, hooks and leaders.

• Anchor or Stakeout Pole: To hold position in wind or current.

• Cooler: Dual-purpose for storage and seating.

• PFD (Personal Flotation Device): Required by law and essential for safety.

• Dry Bag: Keep your phone, wallet, and other valuables safe.

• Sun Protection: Hat, polarized sunglasses, and sunscreen are must-haves.

TIPS FOR SUCCESS

1. Practice Paddle Control: Master basic paddling and balance techniques before trying to !sh while standing.

2. Stay Organized: Use carabiners and bungee cords to keep gear secure and accessible.

3. Scout the Water: Stand and scan for tailing

!sh, bait activity, or subtle ripples.

4. Be Patient: Quietly dri or pole through likely spots, and avoid sudden movements.

5. Time Your Trip: Early morning and late evening o er cooler temps, calmer water, and more active !sh.

CONCLUSION

Paddleboard !shing in the backwaters is more than a hobby—it’s a return to simplicity and intimacy with nature. It’s a growing movement that emphasizes low-impact adventure, selfreliance, and a deep appreciation for wild, o en overlooked places. Whether you’re targeting snook in a mangrove tunnel, bass in a hidden freshwater creek, or red!sh on a mud at, the experience of !shing from a paddleboard is less about the catch and more about the connection— to the water, the !sh, and yourself. For anglers ready to trade noise and crowds for silence and solitude, the backwaters await.

If you’re interested in paddleboard !shing, but don’t have the equipment or gear, be sure to enter my “Ultimate Halloween Paddleboard Fishing Package” giveaway presented by Coastal Angler Magazine, where you could score a “Tricked Out” Live Watersports paddleboard equipped with an ePropulsion eLite electric motor, paddleboard !shing gear and accessories, apparel and more! Scan the code in the ad on the next page or visit coastalanglermag.com/CAM-giveaway for more details and to enter.

Find Skye Burkhardt on Facebook at “Inshore Adventures With Skye,” and on Instagram: @brassyangler87.

LITHIUM BATTERY POWER WINS BEST ENERGY AWARD AT ICAST 2025 FOR GAME-CHANGING POWERBOX SYSTEM

Lithium Battery Power (LBP), a leading innovator in advanced battery solutions, has taken top honors in the Energy category at the 2025 International Convention of Allied Sport!shing Trades (ICAST). e company’s groundbreaking Powerbox 2.5 kW / Solar Panel Lithium Battery Charging System was awarded the Best of Category: Energy, signaling a major leap forward in sustainable, high-performance energy technology for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Held annually in Orlando, ICAST is recognized as the world’s largest sport!shing trade show and a hub for innovation within the industry. Each year, hundreds of new products are submitted for consideration across multiple categories, but only the most impressive make it to the winner’s circle. LBP’s Powerbox system stood out for its combination of portability, power, and green energy integration. e award-winning Powerbox 2.5 kW system delivers robust, reliable energy storage and output

in a compact, rugged form factor. It’s designed to meet the demanding needs of outdoor enthusiasts who rely on consistent power in o -grid environments. Integrated with a high-e ciency solar charging panel, the system ensures power sustainability even during extended trips, reducing the need for fuel-powered generators or frequent dock visits.

outages, hurricanes and critical jobsite power along with the heavy 12 volt demands in marine environments got their attention over all others in the Energy category.

“We are honored to receive this recognition at ICAST,” said Don Mitchell, Sales Director for Lithium Battery Power. “Our goal has always been to push the boundaries of battery technology while supporting eco-conscious outdoor recreation. e Powerbox system is a direct response to what today’s anglers need— power that lasts, in a package that’s smart, clean, and easy to use.”

e judges at ICAST praised the Powerbox for its innovative design, versatility, and emphasis on clean energy. Weekend power

is win marks a signi!cant milestone for Lithium Battery Power, reinforcing its position as a leader in the renewable energy sector within recreational vehicle and marine markets.

As the industry shi s toward more sustainable and e cient energy solutions, Lithium Battery Power’s win at ICAST 2025 signals that the future of on-the-water power is not just electric - it’s solar, smart, and built for adventure.

By Will Schmidt

GO LIGHT FOR BIG SNAPPER

If you have spent any time bottom !shing you know that occasionally on the heaviest of tackle you can outsmart a big snapper and end up with a solid !sh. Other days you can struggle to get even shorts. If you really want to up your game, it is time to lighten up.

When I say light, I mean straight 20 or 30lb mono and light wire 3/0 hooks. You may get broken o at times, but it is worth it for a box full of stud mangos and ARS. My go to big snapper setups is G Loomis IMX Pro Blues 843 casting rod with Shimano Trinadad TN20. is out!t is light, sensitive, and deadly on snapper. Some might like a bit lighter action rod but I have found that even with straight 20lb test you can really put a lot of pressure on these !sh and the backbone is nice to get them o the bottom as quickly as you can. A bit heaver is also nice when that grouper inevitably grabs the bait.

Here is a pro tip. One of the key elements for success to get big snapper, especially mangos, is the ability to react fast. Snapper get their name because they will o en quickly snap at a bait and then release it. With these sensitive rods and a gear ration of 6.2 to 1 you can pick up 46 inches of line in a single turn. A sensitive rod and a fast

reel means when you feel that tap, you can come tight instantly even in deep water. Remember you must use circle hooks so reeling vs setting the hook is the way to connect to these A fast reel might be the most important tool when snapper !shing.

My go to bait is a live pin!sh because, everything eats a pin!sh. I like having a livewell full of nice hand size pins. I do also use thread!ns both live and dead. read are great baits, but a good stout live 7 inch thread is remarkably strong and can be tough to get to the bottom as they swim o with your lead. at means dead threads can be easier to get to the strike zone. Cut the heads and tails o and make a thread “plug.” read “plugs” are awesome for snapper bait especially when live bait is not available. If hook ups are tough, I will double up my hooks, snelling 2 circle hooks close together and getting both hidden inside the plug to increase my hookup ratio. Regardless, I use 3 to 4 feet of mono leader then a swivel and a 3 ounce lead to hold the rig right on the bottom.

light and you will likely !nd the results are worth it.

Whether you really want to target big snapper or the bite is just really tough, try going

IOFFSHORE REPORT

by Capt. Mike Able, Contributing Writer

September

t literally took me thirty minutes to put words down on paper! Hopefully you got a giggle out of it, but there is honestly so much to do in September I didn’t know where to start!

School is back in and we start to get a little break from the extreme heats July and August offered us up. College football is on every Saturday, Shrimp baiting season is upon us, deer and dove season is in full swing and the fish are biting!

September’s chilly mornings that require a sweatshirt for the morning boat ride are some of my favorite times. The fish start to bite better and I know the best fishing of the year is still on the horizon, especially for the inshore fishery.

Once water temps get close to seventy-eight degrees most of your migratory species start to leave our area. Bluefish, spanish mackerel, tarpon, ladyfish and sharks will start moving out when water temps drop. The bait will also follow suit, so you may notice a “mullet run” off the beaches. Huge numbers of cobb sized mullet heading south make easy prey for reds, sharks, and tarpon. You will definitely want to match the hatch in these situations. Fishing your inlets, jetties, following the schools of bait, and deeper water beaches are ideal spots to target these big fish like tarpon and bull reds. Fish finder rigs with live or cut mullet would be best for redfish. Tarpon can be caught on a bottom rig as well as a live bait under a float.

Now the redfish, trout, flounder, and sheepshead really start to get fired up! Catching them this time of year can be easier compared to the heat of the summer. A good topwater bite can last a little longer in the mornings, and the likelihood of them eating artificial lures is even better. If you haven’t caught many fish on artificial baits I’d challenge you to try so. If you want to try the easiest thing to rig, a harder thing to work, yet the most exhilarating way to catch fish then try a topwater plug. A Heddon Super Spook Jr in any color you want worked along the grass edge on an early morning low incoming tide will almost guarantee you explosive action! You haven’t lived until you've caught fish on topwater plugs! Stop in the shop or watch our video on our website so we can take the “harder thing to work” out of the equation.

Another guarantee is an artificial lure under a popping cork. A DOA, Z-Man, or Vudu shrimp rigged three feet under a float with twenty pound flourocarbon does the trick every time. The key to this is working or “popping” the float and not letting it just drift. The other key component is color shrimp. If the water you are fishing is muddy you must use a dark color shrimp. In cleaner water conditions a lighter color like clear, or glow can work much better. Try it and let us know how it went!!!

The offshore bite continues to be over the top, mostly for sailfish this time of year. Typically big numbers of sailfish can be caught if conditions are right! Not to mention the wahoo and tuna bite start to fire back off! Most billfish will be caught trolling ballyhoo. Your wahoo and tuna will be caught using the same thing, but I always add in a Nomad DTX in the spread when targeting wahoo, and a cedar plug one hundred yards behind the boat on my center rigger. A mixed spread can be very effective this time of year anywhere from the ledge out to three hundred feet of water!

Appreciate you reading our fishing report! Don’t forget to catch us on some of our upcoming events! We’d love to see you at some of the following places:

**Sept 3** Charleston Music Hall— International Fly Fishing Film Tour(tickets can be purchased in advance at either Haddrells location.

**Sept 3** Penn Showroom— Women’s Wednesdays are back! If you are a lady angler interested in fishing, come meet like minded lady anglers for fun and fellowship! We will have a social gathering at Penn’s new showroom downtown with some light instruction as well as showing you new products for the year. It’s FREE but please call for more info and to RSVP at 843-573-3474

**Sept 8** Haddrells’ West Ashley— Shrimp Baiting Seminar. Capt Steve Baysinger covers any and all techniques to better your shrimp baiting season. From when and where, to throwing a large size cast net. Seminar is free but please RSVP to 843-573-3474

Capt Mike Able

Haddrell’s Point Tackle & Supply • Since 1983

843-881-3644(Mt Pleasant) 843-573-3474(West Ashley)

Making Memories

by Jiggin’ Jerry, Contributing Writer

There are all kinds of ways to make wonderful memories but you would be surprised about the wonderful memories you can make while fishing, either fishing with the children or a day out with grandpa, parents, friends or on your own. There always seems to be something that occurs that makes you laugh or excites you and that can be reminisced upon during a campfire or a Christmas get together, either funny accidents, exciting fish battles or just embarrassing moments. It all has its place in our memories.

Now some people think that you need all kinds of equipment to fish and make memories, but that really depends on what kind of fishing you want to do and how serious you want to take it, but to honestly have a good time on a body of water, whether small or large, there are always places that you can fish from a dock or a bank or if you have access to a boat that you can fish.

In the Lowcountry, I personally love inshore and freshwater, and it’s great when I’m fishing with friends and family, especially children on the weekend. A lot of families believe it’s hard to keep a child’s interest in the moment when it comes to fishing, and it is true, if they don’t start catching, they become bored and active and next thing you know they want to go home in most cases, but most children aren’t expecting the world when it comes to fishing, they just want to catch.

We’re coming up on the fall season in the Lowcountry and school has already started, so now the kids only have the weekends to make one of these fishing memories, but what’s great about this is that this is the time of year when Lowcountry weather starts to cool down, making it easier to spend prolonged time outside due to the cooler temperatures. This also has the same effect when it comes to the inshore and freshwater fish because as the ambient temperature starts to drop, so does our water temperature. Fish become more active and seem to be eating vigorously, and of course, this is a great setup to make some of those fishing memories, so, really, what would you need to fish off a dock or a bank or even a boat to try to catch some of these fish that would make grandpa, the kids or friends and other family happy? Well, it’s simple.

You don’t need gigantic equipment and big baits to catch a lot of fish. For the children, you would need just a couple of rods with about 6 lb. test fishing line, make up a small Carolina rig using a ¼ oz. weight, 12 in. of 10 lb. test fluorocarbon leader and tie on a very small size 10 bait hook, usually an Octopus style. Grab a tub of frozen Shrimp, peel the Shimp’s shell off and cut the Shrimp in small cube-like pieces, place the pieces on the small hook and cast them in locations by the dock pilings or structure-like piles of rocks or pier pilings, drop the rig all the way to the bottom and reel up about a foot and wait.

Watch the child’s rod closely. When you see the line start to dart left and right or the rod jerk down quickly, set the hook. Not every try is a home run, but you should have no problem catching a number of small fish, once you catch the hang of it, and showing the child how to do just that will make them feel like a professional fisherman in no time. Yes, you will spend a lot of your time taking Pinfish, Croaker, Spot and Whiting off the line and rebaiting, but the child will have a memory and a smile about the adventure that never seems to go away.

For grandpa and the rest of the family, you will up the ante a little bit. Don’t get me wrong, even grandpa and the rest of the family like to enjoy Pinfish and the rest of those little critters, but a 7 ft. medium action rod with 12 to 15 lb. test fishing line, a Carolina rig with either a ¾ oz. or 1 oz. egg weight, at least 12 in. of 15 lb. test fluorocarbon leader and tie yourself on a size 1 or 1/0 Kahle hook, pick yourself up either some live Shrimp or some live Mud Minnows, cast them out or drop them down into locations that you believe the fish are congregating. This rig and baits are capable of catching all kinds of inshore game species, like Flounder, Red Drum, Spotted Seatrout, Black Drum and more.

Just don’t forget there are some other necessities you will need to complete your day out on the water when it comes to fishing—a pair of pliers to help remove the hook from the fish’s mouth, a rag to help keep your hands clean, some band-aids just in case you decide to catch yourself a little bit and not the fish, and don’t forget your smile. Sour pusses never seem to catch many fish.

I hope this helps with some of your upcoming fishing adventures during the fall months here in the Lowcountry or anytime through the year you feel like making a memory, a fishing memory. Like I always say, good luck out there and have fun fishing. If you would like to watch some of my fishing adventures, please enjoy some of my videos on my YouTube channel Fishing With Jiggin Jerry or follow me on Facebook @fwjigginjerry.

YouTube Channel Fishing With Jiggin Jerry or follow me on Facebook @fwjigginjerry

SFISHING FORECAST

Mount Pleasant Pier

by Chris Pounder, Contributing Writer

eptember is typically a good month for a variety of species like trout, flounder, redfish, and sheepshead, as well as blue crabs. Because of that variety, it’s probably a good idea to have some bait options when you give it a shot. When fishing in a boat and the fish aren’t biting, it’s relatively easy to pick up and try another spot. Pier fishermen may be somewhat limited with the area in which they can fish, yet there are still a number of ways to maximize the opportunities.

Bottom rigs are very common and can be productive; however, if the crabs are thick or the nuisance fish are schooled up you can go through a lot of bait in a very short period of time without much success. One option to consider is to use live shrimp, minnows, or mullet under a poppin’ cork. It’s an effective way to catch sea trout, red drum, and even flounder. Large red drum specimens can be caught with regularity throughout September and into October. The best bet to land one is to target the edge of the marsh grass during high tide. Large “bull” reds may prefer mullet, live or cut, but an overlooked bait that works great is using a quarter of a blue crab. So, when you’re bottom fishing and the crabs are thick, it might be time to grab an inexpensive crab net from the River Watch Café and Gift Shop on the pier and get even.

Another option is to grab some fiddler crabs and work the pilings for sheepshead. A number of anglers have good luck using small size 1 or 2 Gamakatsu hooks on a Carolina rig with 1 ounce or less weight. Drop the line over the side and after the weight settles at the bottom, you’ll want to raise it up a little so it’s not resting in the sand or structure. Sheepshead bite can be very delicate and anglers sometimes claim you have to hook them before they bite. Keeping the lead weight off the bottom allows you to see the slightest twitch of the rod tip and be ready to pounce. Be prepared to feed a few sheepshead in order to land the one you want, but they’re a lot of fun to catch when you do.

September 13th and October 11th, the Cast-Off Fishing Tournament resumes the series the pier. The tournament runs from 7am – 2pm and prizes will be awarded for the 3 biggest fish by weight along with a category for youth anglers (12 and under) and aggregate weight of 5 fish. Entry is just $5 plus the daily fishing fee and is available on site beginning at 7am. Good luck out there!

Chris Pounder, CPRP Manager, Mount Pleasant Pier

Raymond with 20" sheep

Ricky with 19" flounder

SFolly Beach Pier

by Jacob Cynar, Contributing Writer

chools are back in session and while the weather is cooling down, the fishing at the Folly Beach Fishing Pier is warming back up!

This is the season of the drums. The Spotted Red Drum is quickly becoming Charleston’s favorite fish and one of the best places to catch them is at the pier. Anglers are able to catch all sizes of red drum, from juvenile to large bull reds. You can find these fish closer to the end of the pier, near the second sun shelter. A simple setup for red drum is a Carolina Rig dropped near the pilings of the pier with live shrimp on a circle hook. The slot size for red drum is 15 in. to 23 in., so make sure to measure any red drum you intend to keep. For the larger bull reds, try to limit the amount of time the fish is out of the water. This will help the overall health of the red drum population.

The other drum to look out for is the black drum. The black drum has been a popular and consistent catch this year. You can find these fish near the beginning of the pier at about the first sun shelter. Keep your Carolina Rig handy because it will be your best bet to catch a black drum at the Folly pier. Black drum will typically feed on crabs and other crustaceans on the pier pilings. Our current Summer Challenge leader for black drum weighs in at 7 lbs. 6.08 oz.! Bring your rod, or rent one, and see if you can beat it!

Tournament season is also back at the Folly Beach Fishing Pier! We only have two Cast Off fishing tournaments left, one on September 20th and the finale on October 25th. Also, our Summer Challenge will end on October 25th. Make sure to weigh your big catches to

see if they can land you on the board! You have one last chance to experience a Moonlight Mixer on September 19th. However you choose to experience the Folly Beach Fishing Pier, make sure to visit the Pier’s gift shop, where our staff is happy to help!

Jacob Cynar, Operations Manager II Folly Beach Fishing Pier 101 E Arctic Ave, Folly Beach, SC, 29439 843-762-9516 • Jacob.Cynar@ccprc.com

AHow to select your fishing rod

By BeBe Dalton Harrison, Angling Women

selections. This should help you figure out how to “pair” a rod and reel. Let me tell you how…

HOW TO READ A ROD

s a female angler I can freely admit that my 2 favorite activities are fishing and shopping. So, when I am shopping for fishing gear (usually at Haddrell’s Point Tackle Women’s Wednesdays) I am in my happy place! There are so many colors, textures, and accessories that it can be overwhelming. When you decide you are ready to buy a rod and reel, you need to understand how to “read” a rod and reel. You can find out valuable information just by reading what is printed directly on the equipment.

Rods and reels can come as separate pieces, or they can come already paired together in a combo. If they are sold as a combo, they will already be perfectly matched. If you are buying the equipment separately there are pieces of information that you need to look for and match when making your

When reading a fishing rod, the information is usually written along the rod just above the reel. Many times it will start with a model number. I use a Penn Passion II and the first number listed is PASII612S70ML. This “code” can actually be deciphered once you understand how to read it. The number listed after the code is 7’ 0” which is the rod length. Some rods will notate if it is a one piece rod or two piece rod. This particular rod is a one piece and does not break down. Two piece rods are much easier to transport but one piece rods are typically stronger. The next piece of information stated is “Moderate Fast Action”. The action of a rod is determined by where the rod flexes and bends. If the bend action is closer to the tip of the rod it is a faster action. Medium action rods bend closer to the middle and slow action is more of a total length flex. The action determines many functions including how the rod handles casting and setting the hook. The next bit of information describes what pound test line can be handled using this rod. This is where you will match the numbers on the rod with the numbers on the reel. This Penn Passion II states that it takes 6-12 pound monofilament or 6-15 pound braid. This indicates the range that can be handled by the rod. For example, if I have 15 pound monofilament line, that would not be appropriate for this rod. But if I had 15 pound braid instead, it would be a suitable weight line to load on a reel for use with this rod. And the last set of numbers indicates the weight range of lures that I could use when fishing. This rod says 1/16-5/8 ounce lures are acceptable to use when fishing. I usually fish with a ¼ ounce jighead which is within the range. So now you can look at the model number and understand what these numbers mean for this model fishing rod.

HOW TO READ A REEL

Next, we move to reading and understanding the reel. On the side of the Penn Passion II

2500 reel, you will find numbers for monofilament and braid, just like the numbers on the rod. For example, under Mono: you will see 6 lb / 255 yds – 8 lb / 175 yds – 10 lb / 140 yds. Not only will it give you the line test/pound rating for each, it also indicates the number of yards per type of line. For example, if you are using 6 pound monofilament you will need to load no more than 255 yards on the reel for optimal performance. There is another set of numbers if you are using braid that shows that if you are using 10 pound test braid you will load no more than 240 yards. The reel has a range of line “tests” listed so you can select your best choice of line to load. Gear ratio is also listed on the bottom of the reel. Gear ratio is technically the number of times the spool turns for each single turn of the handle. This means that a higher number on the gear ratio will typically indicate a faster retrieve. Spool size and other factors can also influence the retrieval rate.

SELECTING THE PERFECT COMBO

If you are new to shopping for a fishing rod and are nervous about matching the rod to the reel you can select a perfectly paired “combo” and head to the water with no worries! Many times, combos even come with line already loaded on the reels. But if you are adventurous and want to select separate pieces, use this information to help you match them so that they work together. I encourage you to visit Haddrell’s Point Tackle Shop. The friendly folks there can help you match the rod and reel, select line, and even help pick out lures or terminal tackle. Some reels even have their own accessories like spare spools (that can be loaded with another size monofilament or braid listed within the range on both pieces of equipment). But let's not get started on the many accessories…yet!

There are hundreds of choices of fishing gear out there but do not let it overwhelm you. Use these tips to help you select the rod and reel to help you get started on the water. Don’t be scared to ask questions, watch videos, and attend local clinics to help you get started. Fishing is truly a hobby to last a lifetime. I’ll see you on the water…

Noah Corcoran, Owner

Marine Detail Supply Charleston

7644 Southrail Rd Unit 400c, North Charleston 843-256-3383

Glass & Eisenglass: Care Tips in 5 Mins.

by Noah Corcoran, Contributing Writer

Clear visibility isn’t just a matter of convenience on the water — it’s a safety issue. Whether you’re looking through tempered glass or Eisenglass panels, keeping them clean and protected will make your time on the water safer, more enjoyable, and help your investment last longer.

1. Rinse First, Always

Before you start wiping, rinse away salt spray and dust with fresh water. Skipping this step is the fastest way to scratch both glass and Eisenglass.

2. Use the Right Cleaner

Household glass cleaners often contain ammonia, which can dry out or haze Eisenglass. Instead, use a marine-safe glass or plastic cleaner formulated for clear vinyl. For stubborn spots, a mild soap solution and a soft microfiber cloth work wonders.

3. Avoid Harsh Pads and Paper Towels

Anything abrasive — even a paper towel — can leave fine scratches. Always use a clean microfiber or dedicated marine detailing cloth.

4. Protect Against UV

UV rays break down vinyl and cause yellowing. Applying a UV protectant regularly will extend the life of your Eisenglass and keep it flexible. Ceramic coatings have evolved and are a great option.

5. Store It Right

When not in use, keep Eisenglass covered or out of direct sunlight. Rolling (not folding) loose panels prevents creases that can become permanent.

A little extra attention to your boat’s windows and clear panels goes a long way. Not only will you enjoy better visibility and comfort on board, but when it comes time to sell or trade, a boat with crystal-clear glass and Eisenglass will stand out immediately.

UPCOMING COASTAL EVENTS

September 7-13

CPR Tournament for Speckled

Sea Trout, Redfish and Flounder

CPR Tournament for Speckled Sea Trout, Redfish and Flounder

Toadfish and Release over 20” 15K in Cash and Prizes • Info at www.toadfish.com

September 11-13

3rd Annual Marshwear Clothing

Lady Red Tournament

More Info at www.marshwearclothing.com

September 13

Mt. Pleasant Pier

Cast Off Fishing Tournament

6 am-2 pm Charleston County Parks

Multiple Prize Categories • More info at wwwccprc.com

Sept. 13 & 27, Oct. 11, Nov. 22

SALTT (Student Angler League Tournament Trail) Virtual Inches Redfish Tournaments for School age Anglers

Charleston and Beaufort Areas

More info at www.salttfishing.com

September 20

Folly Beach Pier

Cast Off Fishing Tournament

6 am-2 pm Charleston County Parks

Multiple Prize Categories • More info at www.ccprc.com

September 28

Inshore Fishing Seminar

8am - 12pm • Featuring Capt. Mark Phelps and Greg Peralta

Hosted by Haddrell’s Point at Toler’s Cove Marina Clubhouse

More info at www.haddrellspoint.com

October 9-11

6th Annual Charleston Fly Tournament

Captains Meeting Meeting Oct. 9 at Rivers and Glen Tournament Oct.10-11 • Weigh in Oct 11 at Rivers and Glen

More information at www.riversandglen.com

October 11

Mt. Pleasant Pier

Cast Off Fishing Tournament

6 am-2 pm Charleston County Parks

Multiple Prize Categories • More info at wwwccprc.com

October 25

Folly Beach Pier

Cast Off Fishing Tournament

6 am-2 pm Charleston County Parks

Multiple Prize Categories • More info at wwwccprc.com

Submit your upcoming events or tournament Info to: brooks@coastalanglermagazine.com

What I Learned

by Brooks Finneseth, Publisher

Red drum are the most popularly targeted species in coastal South Carolina - which means a single redfish may be caught many times over its lifespan.

That means it's up to every angler to handle fish properly and give them the best chance of survival after release. These three rules apply to any fish you're planning to release, but especially a popular species like red drum:

• Protect the slime coat! Use a rubber-coated net or wet hands to touch a fish. The slime coat helps a fish swim more efficiently and protects it from disease - a healthy fish is a slimy fish.

• Minimize the time out of water. Keep fish as wet as possible and return them to the water as quickly as possible.

• Always support a fish horizontally - holding it vertically by the gills, lip or tail can cause injuries.

Source: SCDNR

AFISHING FORECAST

Beaufort/Port Royal

by Sea Sea Nunez, Contributing Writer

lthough fishing in Beaufort, SC is good year round, September fishing here is excellent as there are quite a few species that become abundant as the summer months come to an end. Increased feeding activity begins as fish start preparing themselves for the upcoming cold winter months.

With the change in season bringing in the bigger red drum, more commonly known as “bull reds,” anglers begin to target these fish under bridges, piers, jetties, and rock formations. Common bait such as fresh cut mullet, finger mullet, lady fish, whiting, and blue crabs can be used on bottom rigs to target this fish. Slot reds also become plentiful and can be caught using mud minnows under a cork or artificial bait on a jig head.

Spotted seatrout becomes particularly good as water temperature decreases, they form larger schools and feed more aggressively on baitfish like mullet and shrimp. They can be predominantly found around oyster banks and rocky points. With the spotted seatrout being a schooling fish, anglers can be certain that if one is caught, there is sure to be another one close by. Live bait such as mud minnows or cut bait under a popping cork works best for most anglers during this time.

Flounder migrate further into the creeks during Spring and Summer months to feed, grow, and prepare for the winter months. During the fall time, the migration of flounder gives anglers an opportunity to catch these fish as they begin making their way offshore to spawn. Flounder are usually staged up on bay points, creek mouths, jetties, and bridges. Fishing bottom with live bait such as mud minnows and mullet is ideal for flounder as well as bigger artificial baits like jerk shads and paddle tails.

Lighter tackle is ideal for the upcoming fall months as it provides better casting accuracy and allows anglers to detect subtle bites and movements.

Sea Sea’s Honey Hole Bait & Tackle Shop has everything you need to make this fall fishing a successful one! We sell many kinds of artificial lures, inshore tackle to include rods, reels, and various live and frozen baits.

We are a one stop bait & tackle shop providing both locals and tourists with all your fishing needs. We also make delicious food for lunch on Fridays and HUGE breakfast burritos on Saturdays! Known for our Cuban Sandwiches (only made once a month)

Sea Sea’s Honey Hole Bait & Tackle 901 8th Street, Port Royal South Carolina

(843) 379-2018 Mon-Thurs 8am - 5pm • Fri til 6pm Sat 6:30am - 6pm Sun 7am - 1pm

MISSOURI ANGLER REELS IN MASSIVE 86.8-POUND BLUE CAT

An angler from the Midwest recently had a !shing experience to remember along the banks of the Missouri River near St. Louis.

Wally Klein hooked an enormous 86.8-pound blue cat!sh—an incredible catch that tested both his !shing technique and physical strength.

Using gizzard shad as bait and a standard rod-and-reel setup, Klein fought the powerful !sh before !nally bringing it ashore near Washington, Missouri, according to the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC).

A er snapping a quick photo to commemorate his achievement, Klein released the massive cat!sh back into the river unharmed.

Klein told MDC o cials it was the largest !sh he’s ever caught. e department congratulated him on the impressive feat, saying, “Congrats on this impressive !sh.”

e Missouri River is a well-known destination for trophy cat!sh, particularly blue cat!sh, which are prized for their size and their spirited !ghts—making them a favorite and true challenge among seasoned anglers.

Klein’s cat!sh was a monster, but it didn’t quite break the state record — which was also set in the Missouri River. Back in 2010, Greg Bernal landed a 130-pound blue cat!sh, a catch that was a world record at the time.

Want to learn more about cat shing Missouri’s big rivers?

Visit: https://mdc.mo.gov/ shing/species/cat sh/big-river-cat shing.

SNOOK FISHING WITH ARTIFICIAL SHRIMP

Capt. Mike Smith

The common snook, a.k.a. linesider, a.k.a. robalo, is one of the most sought a er game!sh in Florida waters. Sportsmen and women from all over the world come to Florida to catch these hard !ghting, jumping, head shaking, drag pulling !sh.

Snook will de!nitely eat top water lures, jigs, jerkbaits, wake baits, suspending hard baits, spoons, and ies but they love arti!cial shrimp.

Arti!cial shrimp will catch snook all year long; day or night; salt or fresh water; in every ecosystem, anywhere that snook live.

One of the best ways to catch snook with arti!cial shrimp is skipping them under and around structures like mangrove branches, docks, sea walls, sand bars and oyster bars. Pitch the shrimp to the structure and let it sink. en give it a twitch, twitch and let it sink again, then twitch, twitch and repeat the process until your arms get tired of reeling in linesiders..

Snook like a slower retrieve in the cooler months. Make sure to slow it down when the water temperatures approach the 70 degree level or less. A faster retrieve works better when water temperatures are between 75 and 85 degrees. Snook o en stop biting when water temperatures get above 90 degrees.

Another great characteristic of the arti!cial shrimp is that it skips like a dream. e 3 inch shrimp is the go to arti!cial shrimp lure for most hardcore snook !shermen. However, there are days when the snook are more discerning and a 2.75 inch or a larger 4 inch shrimp is the better size and pro!le choice.

e best color choices for shrimp lures are transparent, natural colors with gold or silver glitter in them for sunny days and clear water scenarios. More opaque and darker colors work better in dirty water and on cloudy days.

Many !shermen struggle when !shing arti!cial lures into tight cover scenarios. Sometimes, it takes about 50 casts and the loss of a half dozen shrimp lures to perfect the technique. But it is de!nitely a skill that any serious snook !sherman needs to master.

Capt. Mike Smith, owner of Fish Your Ass O Charters, is an inshore shing guide who has been shing the inshore waters, oyster bars and grass ats of Florida for more than 40 years. Reach him at (561) 339-2317, email: contact@ shyourasso .com or visit shyourasso .com.

Unlocking Fall Panfish Patterns

Whether for sport or for the table, pan!sh—especially slab crappies and hand-sized bull bluegills—are a favorite target among anglers. And when the air cools and leaves start to fall, pan!sh !shing heats up. Autumn can be one of the best times to catch these !sh, but it comes with a unique set of challenges. Changing vegetation, dropping water temperatures, lake turnover, and bait!sh migrations can make !nding pan!sh feel like solving a seasonal puzzle.

Fortunately, by learning to read these fall cues you’ll consistently !nd success on the water.

As lake temperatures cool and turnover occurs, bait!sh begin shi ing toward shallower cover where they can !nd safety and warmth. is movement sets o a chain reaction. Pan!sh follow the food, o en stacking up around cover like submerged wood or rocky structure. ese areas become prime real estate for fall !shing.

Weather plays a major role, too. On cold, blustery fall days, pan!sh o en slide deeper, becoming more predictable and easier to !nd with electronics. Deep basin areas in 20 to 25 feet of water can light up with schools of crappies—and sometimes bluegills—suspended and ready to bite. ese deeper !sh are o en aggressive, making for a rewarding but ethically sensitive bite. When !shing at those depths, barotrauma becomes a real issue. Released !sh o en don’t survive, even if they swim o , so it’s important to harvest what you catch, regardless of size.

On the ip side, when the weather is mild and

the sun is out, pan!sh can be found shallower, relating to weedlines, cribs, and brush piles. Healthy, vertical weeds are a magnet for fall pan!sh and can hold !sh all the way into !rst ice. In fact, some of the best fall bluegill bites happen in just !ve to eight feet of water, especially in lakes where dense, green weedbeds persist.

Lake size also in uences fall behavior. On smaller lakes—200 acres or less—dropping water temps and decaying weeds tend to concentrate !sh even more. As long as green weeds remain, pan!sh will hold tight to them. But as those weeds die o , the !sh begin to push toward deeper structure or out into the basins in preparation for winter.

Crappies in particular become more predictable in the fall, o en schooling up tighter and acting more aggressively than during other seasons. ey’re easier to pattern as they transition from summer haunts to winter basins, o en stopping along the way at deep weedlines or submerged timber. In lakes with ample wood or crib structure, these can be hotspots that hold large schools well into late fall.

Bluegills, while more opportunistic and scattered, still relate strongly to weed edges and shallow cover when the conditions are right. eir adaptability means they can be caught both shallow and deep, but they may take more searching to !nd than their crappie counterparts.

Despite the variables, the recipe for fall pan!sh

success remains relatively consistent: follow the forage, !nd healthy weeds or cover, and adjust based on the weather. Whether you’re chasing aggressive schools of crappies in deep water or hunting bluegills in shallow weed patches, fall o ers a window of opportunity that savvy anglers won’t want to miss.

THE UNITED STATES VIRGIN ISLANDS: Naturally in Rhythm—No

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.

Learn more at www.VisitUSVI.com.

Buy One, Get One Free

Valued at over $90,000 MSRP, only 3000 tickets will be sold

CHANGE IS ON THE WAY

Tim Barefoot

September is a peculiar month. Some of the hottest days of the year, hurricane season is in full swing and the !rst northeast winds and cold fronts are about to occur. is is the time of year when wahoo and yellow!n can be caught right up against the beach on big schools of cigar minnows and sardines, or out in the deeper water. ere is no rhyme or reason to it this time of year; these !sh simply follow the bait schools

is is also the time of year when scamp grouper are very vulnerable. If you have the ability to keep a pin!sh trap in the water, it’s a good idea to take live pin!sh with you o shore for a number of reasons. One, pin!sh are very hearty and will live until the end of the day in the live well. Two, they are very sought a er by scamps because scamps view them as egg eaters and will kill them (eat them) so they don’t eat their eggs. And three, they are readily available at all !sh cleaning stations, at most marinas. Yes, I strongly suggest taking two or three boxes of frozen cigar minnows for bait, but live pin!sh are a ringer for scamps and other grouper/ snapper species in the deeper water.

with a cigar minnow. Proof is in the pudding...and here’s your proof. I’ve always said if you !nd the bait you !nd the !sh, and if you !nd big marks of bait (cigs, sardines, tinks, beeliners etc…) you’ll !nd the !sh. It’s always a good thing to have a “spotlight trolling motor” option to be able to sit on the bait or at least slow your dri in currents, but !sh under the bait on or near the bottom for grouper and snappers and keep the light line out for all the pelagics.

Designate one person in the crew to keep multiple light-line baits tended. Do not let this person get complacent and start bottom !shing. e same person should stay focused on the baits and working the Sabiki for whatever bait is below the boat. I’ve always said “Don’t walk in a Chinese restaurant and order a pizza,” meaning whatever is there is what they’re eating! A couple obvious execptions to this is pin!sh on the bottom and greenies/sardines; these baits are universal. We can’t keep gag grouper this time of year or American red snapper, but you can de!nitely !ll the box with other species.

September is when you will see all the tropical species in places you don’t normally see them. All the tropical snappers are everywhere now. Frozen cigar minnows on the Squid Decoy Jig are a wonderful option, but live cigs and sardines are a “whole nother story.” As shown in the photo, the all-time IGFA world record scamp was caught on the 12 ounce

Be ready for that big bite on the light line by choosing your tackle wisely as well. Yes, you need to keep the leader ( oro and wire) size small to get the bites, but use the correct size hooks, reel and line capacity to handle bigger !sh. Like I mentioned earlier, this is the time of year when wahoo are everywhere...and nowhere. You could catch a giant wahoo or tuna inshore, or in the deep water, just be prepared for it and be ready to chase it down if need be. e kite is always a great option if you have the team that can y the kite and bottom !sh simultaneously as it can be a challenge with wind speed, direction and current.

Learn more from Tim Barefoot on his YouTube channel and at barefootcatsandtackle.com.