Coastal Angler Magazine - Feb - March / Costa Rica

FREE

COSTA RICA EDITION

Gulf

Rods &

Tuna

Reels Reviews

At Night

Fish

Tales From Costa Rica

Skeeter Celebrates

70

th

Anniversary PHOTO COURTESY OF RANDY KING VOLUME 23 • ISSUE 276

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O P P O R T U N I T I E S

A V A I L A B L E

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W O R L D W I D E

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FAMILY LEGENDS

and fish tales

BUILT FOR THAT

210 FSH ® SERIES

Go where no other boat has gone before. With powerful twin TR-1® Yamaha Marine Engines, ample storage and comfortable bow seating, the all-new 210 FSH provides the shallow-water capability to get to those hard-to-reach fishing spots and the versatility to enjoy watersports with your family.

210 FSH®

210 FSH® Deluxe

210 FSH® Sport

YA M A H A B OAT S . C O M

©2018 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. Follow instructional materials and obey all laws.

Drive responsibly, wearing protective apparel. Always drive within your capabilities, allowing time and distance for maneuvers, and respect others around you. Don’t drink and drive. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT YAMAHABOATS.COM OR CALL 1.800.88.YAMAHA.

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1/17/18 1:49 PM 12/22/17 9:22 AM

2018 242CC

FISHING FOCUSED FAMILY FRIENDLY “Sailfish Boats are truly versatile. A great fishing boat and a great family boat all in one.”

2018 220CC ® Exclusive Variable Degree Stepped (VDS) Hull for Performance, Safety & Stability ® 10 year Structural Warranty ® SailTech Construction: 100% Composite, Reinforced with Kevlar® & Carbon Fiber ® Lifetime No-Rot Guarantee ® Bow To Stern Intelligent Ergonomic Design with Premium Finishes ® Family Friendly Features for Fun, Comfort and Safety

www.SailfishBoats.com

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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THE NEXT GREAT THE NEXT GREAT

HAVALON HAVALON INNOVATION INNOVATION HAS LANDED. HAS LANDED.

QUIK-CHANGE II ™ Interchangeable Fixed Blade™ QUIK-CHANGE Cutlery System II Interchangeable Fixed Blade Cutlery System9” FILLET 7” FILLET 9” FILLET 5” FILLET 7” FILLET 3” SERRATED 5” FILLET 3” SERRATED

Easy Blade Release System Easy Blade Release System

Opens For Easy Cleaning

KN IVES

Opens For Easy Cleaning

KN IVES

COMING SPRING 2018 COMING SPRING 2018 4

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Rugged Canvas Roll Pack Rugged Canvas Roll Pack

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

1/17/18 5:06 PM

BLEED TRIM

SAFETY

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

FLORIDA

BIG BEND : Mike McNamara • (850) 510-7919 • captmike@coastalanglermagazine.com BREVARD : David String • (321) 684-5888 • dstring@coastalanglermagazine.com DAYTONA/NEW SMYRNA BEACH : Don Meadows • (321) 436-5895 • donm@coastalanglermagazine.com FLORIDA KEYS : Cliff Lumpkin • (305) 849-9093 • cliff@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT LAUDERDALE : Gene Dyer • (954) 680-3900 • gene@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT MYERS : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER ORLANDO : Phillip & Giselle Wolf • (407) 790-9515 • phillip@coastalanglermagazine.com LAKELAND & SUMTER : Mary Brasher • (352) 598-4219 • maryf@coastalanglermagazine.com NAPLES : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com NC FLORIDA/NATURE COAST : Cary & Lynn Crutchfield • (352) 372-4237 • crutch@coastalanglermagazine.com NE FLORIDA : Danny Patrick • (904) 742-4696 • danny@coastalanglermagazine.com PANAMA CITY/FORGOTTEN COAST : Randy Cnota • (229) 834-7880 • randyc@coastalanglermagazine.com PALM BEACH COUNTY : Barbara Ryan • (561) 373-8040 • barbara@coastalanglermagazine.com SARASOTA : Phil Prevoir • (239) 257-4684 • pprevoir@coastalanglermagazine.com TAMPA BAY : Chuck Atkins • (239) 464-5153 • chuck@coastalanglermagazine.com TREASURE COAST : Misti & Gary Guertin • (772) 285-6850 • treasurecoast@coastalanglermagazine.com

flahama@coastalanglermagazine.com

SOUTHEAST

ATLANTA : Bob & Brenda Rice • (706) 614-8231 • bobr@theanglermagazine.com CHARLESTON : Jane A. Redden • (205) 725-9616 • jane@coastalanglermagazine.com

Sam Buckareff • (843) 607-8629 • sam@coastalanglermagazine.com

CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT : Mark & Haley Alberghini • (704) 651-1934 • mark@theanglermagazine.com

COME JOIN OUR TEAM Dear Reader, “Coastal Angler” and our freshwater component “The Angler” magazines are looking to expand our franchise footprint to include numerous Gulf Coast region markets. Having become the largest outdoor publication on the Eastern Seaboard, we’re now ready to continue our expansion westerly all the way to California and northerly to the Great Lakes and beyond.

Our franchise system enables localized editions of the magazine to be managed and developed by our franchisee/co-publishers. Publishing your localized edition of either Coastal Angler Magazine or The Angler Magazine can be exceptionally enriching and financially rewarding.

Our ideal candidate may never have been involved in publishing before. They would, however, be passionately involved in the outdoors. Obsessive anglers often make great fishing magazine franchisees.

COLUMBIA/MIDLANDS : John Lux • (803) 807-6885 • jlux@theanglermagazine.com MYRTLE BEACH : Mike Masiero • (732) 674-3019 • mmasiero@coastalanglermagazine.com SW GEORGIA : Bob & Brenda Rice • (706) 614-8231 • bobr@theanglermagazine.com TIDEWATER/OUTER BANKS : John Tiger • (757) 707-9654 • john.tiger@coastalanglermagazine.com

Laura Tiger • (757) 707-9655 • laura@coastalanglermagazine.com

WESTERN NC : Debra & Joe Woody • (828) 775-9663 • woody@theanglermagazine.com WILMINGTON/MOREHEAD : Kenny Ritter • (910) 550-9094 • kenny@coastalanglermagazine.com

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

Your new career is just a phone call or email away.

GULF COAST MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST : Adam Nelson • (228) 627-5903 • anelson@coastalanglermagazine.com

This is a chance to own your own business but not be all on your own. Our training and support systems enable our co-publishers to quickly establish their localized edition of the magazine into a viable local business. If you think you would enjoy a career centered around the outdoors and fishing, you owe it to yourself to check out our franchise opportunities. Our expansion goals have numerous territories now available.

Toby Nelson • (228) 623-1761 • tnelson@coastalanglermagazine.com

Best regards,

NEW ORLEANS : Dr. Dave Dunaway • (225) 400-8156 • nola@coastalanglermagazine.com

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

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

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

SAFETY

Ben Martin Editor in Chief info@coastalanglermagazine.com

1-888-800-9794

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By CAM Staff

F

ast and stable, with a needle nose that reminded people of a mosquito buzzing over southern waters, the world’s first bass boat was the 1948 brainchild of Shreveport, Louisiana’s Holmes Thurmond. That first Skeeter boat, made of molded marine plywood, caught on quickly with local anglers. It launched the brand

that today, 70 years later, is still renowned for building innovative boats designed specifically for the needs of recreational anglers.

Cary Crutchfield, co-publisher of Coastal Angler Magazine’s North Central Florida edition, owns one of those early Skeeter boats.

When he bought his first Skeeter in the 1960s, the company was already leading the way in what became an industry-wide transition to fiberglass. His was a 15-foot model with stick steering up front that was powered by a 35hp outboard.

“It’s real easy to fish from, and it’s just a neat 6

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looking boat,” Crutchfield said of those early flat-bottomed Skeeters. “It’s narrow, and the way the sides turn up to the cockpit makes it very stable to move around in.”

With today’s bass boats, a 250hp Yamaha seems like a necessity to even compete on the tournament circuits. Back then, a Skeeter with a 35hp was capable of reaching speeds in excess of 30 mph. It was a fishing boat superior to any that came before it. The Super Skeeter arose as the boat for serious anglers fishing the large, newly constructed man-made reservoirs that have since fueled the sport.

Crutchfield sold his 15-footer in the 1980s and almost immediately began kicking himself. He missed the narrow profile and shallow draft, along with kind of stability that allows him to stand comfortably and pole into very tight places.

It wasn’t long before he ran into another old Skeeter he had to have, this one a 14-footer, originally powered by a 25hp outboard that has since been replaced by a 1950s model 12hp. Even with that old motor, it still gets around pretty quickly, and Crutchfield said it’s still the perfect small fishing boat where he launches on the Suwannee River.

With the spirit of innovation that gave rise to that first bass boat and an open ear to the new requirements of early bass tournaments, Skeeter grew and evolved with the sport. The Skeeter Hawk did away with the characteristic pointed bow, which allowed for a smoother ride and a raised casting platform.

In the 1970s, after moving into its current plant in Kilgore, Texas, Skeeter rolled the dice and introduced the legendary Wrangler to the bass fishing world. Rated for 150hp with a V-bottom, it was an odd and new style that absolutely dominated the competition in performance. It became the template that led to the high-performance fishing machines that roar

around our reservoirs today.

In 2018, Skeeter Performance Fishing Boats is celebrating its 70th year of providing anglers with exceptional fishing boats. With modern technology and computer design capabilities, it has continued to lead the industry with innovations such as the first production composite bass boat, the ZX202, in the mid-1990s.

The venerable ZX series, in all its versions, has been a staple in the bass tournament world for more then three decades. But listening to the needs of the fishermen who are its customers, Skeeter branched out to produce deep-v boats for walleye tournament anglers on the big lakes of the north, as well as bay boats for saltwater anglers.

Skeeter’s acquisition by Yamaha in 1996 brought new resources to the table and advances followed. In 2001, Skeeter again set a new standard for the industry with its Torque Transfer Transom and Stringer System, which provides lift to the entire keel, while eliminating stress on the on the transom, deck, hull and sides.

Through all the advancements, Skeeter boats bear little resemblance to Thurmond’s first bass boat. But the same concept, to design perfect

fishing boats for fishermen, is evident throughout Skeeter’s product line. Whether it’s on southern reservoirs, the big northern lakes or the bays and backwaters of the Gulf of Mexico, Skeeter has a nimble, fast and extremely fishable boat perfect for the kind of fishing you do.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

1/17/18 5:06 PM

IT’S MORE THAN JUST A BOAT. IT’S A LIFESTYLE.

STANDARD FEATURES INCLUDE: Center console command center Abundant bow & floor storage Lowrance® Elite 9 Ti touch 40 gallon rear livewell/baitwell Deluxe lean post w/vertical rod holders 14 gallon console baitwell New upholstery styling ...and much more!

ENGINEERED TO BE THE ULTIMATE BAY BOAT Ultimate in the way you get to the fish, with a durability that is unsurpassed. Engineering this one was a dream come true. We put everything you need right at your fingertips to provide you with a true fishing machine. For additional information please visit SkeeterBoats.com/SX240.

$42,995* 2O18 SX21O WITH

YAMAHA VF15OXA

ACTUAL SALES PRICE DETERMINED BY DEALER. PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE FREIGHT, DEALER PREP & T.T.L.

NATIONALLY ADVERTISED PRICE BEFORE REBATE

$

43,495

+

MANUFACTURER’S SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICE

$

52,060

u

STANDARD FEATURES INCLUDE: White Pro Series 2 Power-Pole® Abundant bow & floor storage Center console command center 25 gallon rear livewell/baitwell Leaning post with vertical rod holders 14 gallon console baitwell ...and much more!

8” setback plate

THE BEST RIDE AT THE BEST VALUE It’s true you really can have it all without spending it all. The SX210 is just the right fit for any situation.

Family fun and weekend getaways make this boat a hero. For additional information please visit SkeeterBoats.com/SX210.

UP TO

INSTANT REBATE

*

LIMITED TIME OFFER INSTANT REBATE APPLIED AT TIME OF FINAL SALE BY DEALER.

VALID JANUARY 1-MARCH 31, 2018

LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY Limited Lifetime Structural Warranty 10 Year Limited Transferable Structural Warranty 3 Year Limited Component Warranty

Visit SkeeterBoats.com to locate your nearest Skeeter Dealer.

Nationally Advertised Price; actual sales price determined by dealer. Price does not include freight, dealer prep, and T.T.L.. uManufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Prices may vary due to supply, location, freight etc. Actual prices are set by the dealer. *Terms and Conditions: Nationally Advertised Price for 2018 SX210 with $1500 Rebate. Consumer benefit for purchasing a new (unused, not previously warranty registered) eligible MY 2018 and prior boat from 1/1/18- 3/31/18 is an instant rebate applied at time of final sale by dealer, at no extra cost to consumer. Actual rebate amount is determined by model selected.

NO BENEFIT SUBSTITUTIONS. Promotion is only applicable from authorized participating Skeeter dealers in the U.S.A. and Canada sold to purchasing consumers residing in the U.S.A. and Canada. Promotion is limited to available stock in dealer inventory that is sold, PDI completed, delivered and warranty registered in accordance with Skeeter’s promotion and warranty registration req uirements during applicable dates.

No model substitutions, benefit substitutions, extensions or rain checks will be allowed. Not redeemable for cash. Boats sold or provided for commercial, camp, resort, rental, promotional/ demo, government agency, competition, tournament or sponsorship use are not eligible. This promotion cannot be used in conjunction with any other Skeeter offer or discounts. Some exceptions may apply. See authorized, participating Skeeter dealer for complete details. Skeeter reserves the right to change or cancel this promotion at any time. Other restrictions and conditions apply. ©2018 Skeeter Products, Inc. All rights reserved.

This document contains many of Skeeter’s valuable trademarks. It may also contain trademarks belonging to other companies. Any references to other companies or their products are for identification purposes only, and are not intended to be an endorsement. Remember to observe all applicable boating laws. Never drink and ride. Dress properly with a USCG approved flotation device and protective gear. +

LOOK FOR US AT THE MIAMI INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW AT BOOTH A112 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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Rods & Reels

G. LOOMIS/SHIMANO CONQUEST

PENN CONFLICT II

PENN redesigned its smooth and durable Conflict reel to bring anglers the Conflict II, the most lightweight PENN reel ever made. It is a superior reel, perfectly suited to inshore applications.

True to its origins, the Conflict II features stealthy cosmetics and a smooth and reliable HT-100 carbon fiber drag system.

The RR30 Rigid Resin body and rotor are extremely lightweight and durable, and with the redesign, the Conflict II is 20 percent lighter than the first-generation Conflict.

Internally, the Conflict II is updated with PENN’s CNC Gear Technology and high quality stainless steel ball bearings, making it the ultimate PENN inshore reel. With the Superline Spool, no backing is needed because of the rubber gasket that keeps superlines from slipping.

Other key features include: Slow Oscillation – Leveline System, 7+1 sealed stainless steel ball bearing system and line capacity rings.

WWW.PENNFISHING.COM

ST. CROIX LEGEND TOURNAMENT INSHORE

8

What do you get when you mix proven G. Loomis rod design with Shimano technology?

You get Conquest, a line of 12 awesome bass rods, purposebuilt for different conditions and techniques. The new Conquest series includes eight casting rods with G. Loomis’ original “Mag Bass” fast-action tapers and four “Spin/Jig” fast-action spinning rods.

With Shimano’s Spiral X and Hi-Power X processes, the blanks are rolled to exact G. Loomis specifications before being handfinished in G. Loomis’ Woodland, Wash. facility. With this partnership, engineers believe they have produced the most technologically advanced rods on the water.

They are lightweight and offer anglers a whole new set of performance standards. Some of the benefits anglers will experience are: more accurate casts, increased fighting power, solid leverage for hook sets and reduced rod twist for rod control and durability.

The casting rods are fitted with G. Loomis’ “skeleton” reel seats on full-cork contoured grips. The spinning rods feature split grips and Shimano’s CI4 reel seats. Blank-through-handle design on both versions adds sensitivity, as do the Fuji Torzite guides and a durable SIC Titanium tip guide.

Whether you’re pitching jigs in thick cover or prospecting open water for smallies, high-performance Conquest rods will help you catch more bass.

WWW.GLOOMIS.COM

PENN INTERNATIONAL VI

Legend Tournament Inshore rods are the blending of the inimitable sensitivity, power and durability of St Croix’s Legend Tournament Bass and Walleye series with components and technology suited for saltwater environments.

With good looks and a high-performance feel, the Legend Tournament Inshore was awarded Best Saltwater rod at ICAST 2017. The eye-catching “Belize Blue” blanks are crafted of SCIV graphite using Integrated Poly Curve tooling technology and engineered to eliminate all transitional points, which fosters smooth action, increased strength and sensitivity.

They are surprisingly lightweight, yet durable, and are equipped with a Fuji TVS blank touch reel seat on spinning rods and PTS blank-touch reel seat with builtin hoods on casting models. These new Fuji seats are designed to stand-up to the pressure of hard-fighting inshore species. Kigan Master Hand Zero Tangle guides and a Kigan titanium hook keeper provide 100 percent corrosion protection.

After nearly 15 years, the PENN International big game reel will get a makeover. The reel that has become legendary for fulfilling angler dreams offshore has been refined and modernized to once again redefine big game reels.

The PENN International VI series features many upgrades including a weight reduction on key sizes, a new silent anti-reverse and a more refined/ adjustable Dura-Drag system. The new series features 28 models in both gold and silver, single speed and two-speed, wide and narrow.

Made in the U.S.A. of domestic and imported components at the historic PENN Fishing Tackle Manufacturing Company building in Philadelphia, the International VI will give anglers the edge in chasing that trophy of a lifetime.

Key features include: Machined and anodized aluminum body and side plates, stainless steel main and pinion gears, Quick-Shift II two-speed system, sealed DuraDrag system, Versa-Strike Adjustable Strike stop, double-dog ratchet anti-reverse and line capacity rings.

STCROIXRODS.COM

WWW.PENNFISHING.COM

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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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Product Reviews

TSUNAMI ARMR

MUD HOLE TURN KEY KITS Avid anglers who want to take their fishing to the next level owe it to themselves to check out Mud Hole Custom Tackle’s rod building kits. They include everything needed for anglers to construct their own high-end custom fishing rods.

Mud Hole is offering an amazing value on its Inshore Turnkey Kit, which includes all the tools and materials to build a custom inshore rod perfect for trout and redfish.

The kit features the extremely popular and versatile MHX SJ842 rod blank. This 7’0” medium-light power rod features a fast action for throwing soft plastics and topwater lures at wary flats fish.

Along with the blank, the kit comes with a matched guide set, handle kit and everything from the CRB wrapper, a CRB rod dryer and ProPaste and ProKote Rod Finish and all the tools needed to craft your own custom rod.

Visit www.mudhole.com and check out all our Turn Key Kit options or simply Google: Mud Hole Turnkey.

Super smooth and well built, the Tsunami ARMR is lightweight, high-performance spinning reel available in 3000/4000 and 5000/6000 sizes.

The Tsunami ARMR has a sleek design and features

high-end components to provide smooth and durable operation for fighting and casting.

The lightweight, solid aluminum body combined with hybrid, corrosion resistant carbon infused side plates and rotor and a double anodized ported aluminum spool are what keep this reel feather light in the hand all day long.

Seven high-precision, shielded stainless steel ball bearings allow full support to all free-moving parts during the toughest fight or retrieve after retrieve. The look and feel of the Tsunami ARMR reel, enhanced by a light, durable EVA handle knob and braid-ready spool is what separates these high-performance reels from the competition.

WWW.BIMINIBAYOUTFITTERS.COM

WWW.MUDHOLE.COM

SHIMANO SUSTAIN HOOKER ELECTRIC REELS Hooker Electric continues to raise the bar with the fastest, lightest and best looking electric reels on the market, along with second-to-none customer service.

The top seller in 2017 was their 80 motor that features level wind and auto stop, mounted on the Shimano Tiagra 80WA. The auto stop feature allows the angler to set the reel to stop winding at any interval, including just before your terminal tackle reaches the rod tip. With both 12- and 24-volt functionality, there is no need for a converter box.

Its full variable speed allows line retrieval at up to 500 feet per minute, which makes checking your bait from 1,800 feet a breeze.

It also includes bluetooth connectivity, allowing the angler to control the reel through Hooker Electric’s iPhone app, ReelTime. If you’re feeling sporty, the reel can also be used manually, so you can feel the fight.

New for 2018, Hooker Electric now offers custom colors in silver, black, blue and even pink. For more information, go to www.hookerelectric.com or give them a call at 954-530-6908.

WWW.HOOKERELECTRIC.COM

T h e Best New Saltwater Reel winner at ICAST 2017, Shimano’s Sustain might just be the best new spinning reel for freshwater or salt. The Sustain series comes in four sizes suitable for everything from finesse baits for bass, to stripers and even small billfish.

In all sizes, the reel’s Hagane aluminum body construction gives it a solid feel, and the Shimano Magnumlite low inertia rotor provides sensitive, light rotation and a light start up, which allows anglers to instantly begin the retrieve.

Shimano’s Hagane gear has already made waves in the industry for its incredibly smooth operation. The exclusive technology used to engineer the cold forged aluminum drive also makes it extremely strong and durable.

The X-Protect feature, which should be of particular interest to saltwater anglers but is relevant in any wet fishing conditions, is a threelipped rubber seal system that offers exceptional water resistance.

With Cross Carbon Drag, eight shielded anti-rust ball bearings, and a one-way roller bearing to stop handle backplay, Shimano went in whole hog to produce these award-winning reels. Whether you fish freshwater or salt, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better spinning reel.

FISH.SHIMANO.COM

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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MOTOR UPGRADES ARE AVAILABLE

Marine Wintertime Blowout $209* mon

G2968 Key Largo 160cc

G2661 Key Largo 1800 cc

40 HP Motor

90 HP Motor

WAS $23,849 NOW $15,999

WAS $37,749 NOW $25,999

$194* mon

90 HP Motor

G3149 Caravelle 16EBo 70 HP Motor

WAS $30,746 NOW $19,799

$299* mon thly

thly

G2849 Key Largo 2000

G2646 Key Largo 210LX

WAS $50,787 NOW $35,990

WAS $59,266 NOW $36,990

150 HP Motor

140 HP Motor

WAS $35,833 NOW $23,999

thly

$279* mon

thly

G3068 Caravelle 19EBo

$164* mon

thly

thly

$377* mon

$306* mon

$368* mon

thly

thly

G3010 Key Largo 220BAY

G3054 Razon 238PF

140 HP Motor

200 HP Motor

WAS $61,517 NOW $39,599

WAS $78,605 NOW $49,599

thly

G3081 Razor 247UR 200 HP Motor

WAS $71,288 NOW $48,499

www.factorydirectmarine.com *payments calculated at 180 months for well qualified buyers with 20% down. Please note: Prices do not include freight, dealer make ready, and rigging.

Pictures may not reflect actual unit and/or available inventory. Price and payment do not include sales tax or fees. Not responsible for typographical errors.

Ridgeland, SC, 401 Sycamore Drive, 844-280-9753 | Panama City, FL, 8308 Panama City Beach Pkwy, 844-278-2510 Charlotte, NC | 9204 N Lakebrook Road | 980-267-5597 | Rockwood,TN, 2475 Westel Road, 844-271-9582 Hamburg, PA, 20 Industrial Drive , 844-247-1678 | West Coxsackie, NY, 12634 Route 9 West, 844-276-8649

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All trademarks mentioned are owned by, or licensed to, the AkzoNobel group of companies. © AkzoNobel 2017.

$136* mon

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

Micron® Extra leads the charge in all waters. Using its signature dual-protection with boosting Biolux® technology, it provides high-quality, multi-season protection that survives hauling and relaunch without the need for repainting.

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

All trademarks mentioned are owned by, or licensed to, the AkzoNobel group of companies. © AkzoNobel 2017.

The hero your boat deserves!

8953/1217

CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 11

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Drifting For

Nighttime Yellowfin On Gulf Floaters

By Nick Carter

Y

ellowfin tuna are some of the most sought after gamefish in the world. They are the ahi tuna on the menus at restaurants and sushi bars, and in the water they have the speed and power to wear down anglers and break gear.

The signature “spiral” that tuna commence in the waning moments of a fight is responsible for untold numbers of broken lines and broken hearts. After battling 30 mph runs for 20 minutes or more, the weary angler, captain and crew face one final test, a team effort to survive the spiral and get the fish on deck. These tense moments, when a big yellowfin turns sideways and begins to circle, using its body’s mass as leverage, are the most critical minutes of the fight. If the line even touches the boat, it will snap, and the circling fish provides many opportunities for this to happen.

These moments are the reason Randy King, of Paparda Rey Fishing Charters out of Galveston, Texas, says the main limitation on their catch is the ability of the angler. The captain, Kenneth Doxey, is solid. He has been running their 54-foot Bertram and their 35-foot Cabo for more than a decade. He was the 2016 recipient

of the Houston Big Game Fishing Club’s Jim Peachey Award. The crew is also top-notch, which leaves the angler as the potential weak link.

The good news is there will likely be multiple opportunities on one of their overnight trips to deep-water oil platforms off Texas. King said a great trip with six anglers would yield a dozen yellowfin tuna in the 40- to 120-pound range, and that doesn’t include the shots anglers will have at mahi-mahi, wahoo, marlin and blackfin tuna.

Out of Galveston, it’s 100 miles or more into the Gulf of Mexico to reach the enormous floating gas and oil structures off the edge of the Continental Shelf. These deep-water facilities, known as “floaters,” create their own food chain, consolidating bait and gamefish from miles around.

On a typical 36- or 48-hour trip, don’t plan on sleeping much. The floaters are brightly lit at night, which is when the tuna fishing is best. After identifying fish on the sonar, chumming and drift fishing with 30-pound-class tackle is usually the most productive method for yellowfin.

“Sometimes the tuna will start breaching,” said King. “They’ll jump in the air like king mackerel.”

It’s for these occasions, when fish are on the surface, that big spinning rigs armed with poppers are

kept on deck.

Drifting and pulling poppers while chugging back up-current to start a new drift goes on all night long. At dawn, the bait rods come in, and it’s time to start trolling. The primary daylight targets are marlin, sailfish, wahoo and dolphin.

Between night and day, it equates to a whole lot of big fish packed into a weekend at sea. It’s a grand adventure, and a meat trip of epic proportions in the Gulf of Mexico.

Check out Paparda Rey at www.offshorebiggame.com. Information on the Houston Big Game Fishing Club can be found at www.hbgfc.com.

For more fishing on the Paparda Rey, go to

FISHORDIE.CO

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By Capt. Michael Okruhlik • Photo courtesy of Controlled Descent Lures

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n early November, my buddy and I set out to fish some shallow flats in our kayaks. The water and air temperatures were near the 80-degree mark in south Texas. The area we had available to us only had a few inches of tidal flow predicted. When saltwater fishing, current is at the top of the list for catching requirements, but when the tide doesn’t provide it, find something that will.

I had not fished this area in three years, and since that time hurricane Harvey changed a few things from the vehicle access point to my favorite hole, which isn’t a hole anymore. Needless to say, this was going to be a scouting mission as well as a fishing trip. We made our way to our first stop, which was a large knee- to waist-deep grass flat with a deep channel running down one side that is separated by a few spoil islands.

We anchored up at the tip of a spoil island and casted to the channel.

Although there was an abundance of bait, we didn’t get a strike.

Off to plan B, my old honey hole. Once there, I realized the sweet spot was no longer, but we fished the area thoroughly since bait was present. We managed only a few strikes and a couple small trout.

Knowing that the fish were inactive and that the tide was weak, I searched for an area where the wind might help drive a little more water flow to get the fish feeding. We headed back to the vicinity of our first stop, which was a flat the shape of a football field with the wind blowing from one endzone to the other. On the downwind side, there were a few small islands with breaks between them. Due to the wind, these breaks

funneled stronger water movement onto a small shallow flat. This flat didn’t have more bait than the other areas, but it did have water movement, which sparked the bite. We spent several hours in this tiny area catching reds and speckled trout.

We used the same lures and presentation as we did earlier in the day.

Soft plastic topwater jerk baits in pearl accounted for the more aggressive fish, but they were the smaller ones in this area. All of our larger fish came on slow-sinking paddle shad. Targeting the potholes and letting the lures slowly sink at the edge of the sand-to-grass transition drew the better strikes.

Photo courtesy of Capt. Tim Cutting

When fishing on less than desirable tides, remember to seek out locations that can offer it a push. Funnels and choke points are always a good bet, even if they are subtle. The water depth was the same on both sides and in between the islands, but it gave that little push the fish needed.

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

Boat Show Season -- See You at Your Local Boat Show

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INSIDE: FISHING REPORTS • TIDE CHARTS • CHARTERS • AND MORE COASTALANGLERMAG.COM I FEBRUARY / MARCH 2018 I COSTA RICA 1 Cover photo by Will Drost

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Welcome To Coastal Angler Magazine

Costa Rica

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the second issue of Costa Rica’s only magazine dedicated exclusively to the country’s Fishing and Watersports Tourism Industry. Coastal Angler Magazine Costa Rica is focused exclusively on sportfishing and watersports of Costa Rica.

This February and March issue is filled with great information about fishing in Costa Rica.

The magazine’s format consists of a United States National section on the outside pages, with a robust thirty-six-page Costa Rica section in the center. Every two months look for our new issue as we bring the world class Costa Rican fisheries to the forefront of tourism.

I truly believe our magazine has developed into the premiere vehicle for information and promotion of the Sport Fishing Tourism Industry of Costa Rica. We have lined up some excellent writers for this issue. You won’t want to miss Todd Staley’s article about green stick fishing and how it can help the Costa Rican fisheries. I would also like to welcome Captain German Bustos to our list of fishing report writers. I think you will find his report full of useful information about catching in the Golfito Osa Peninsula region.

The Costa Rica section is divided into seven regions, representing the seven major areas where fishing tourism exists in Costa Rica. If you’re looking for some fishing while you’re in Costa Rica the Regional Directories are filled with the best of the best charter operations for each area. The contact information will put you directly with the operators rather than a tour desk operator who’s booking for a commission. The seven areas include: The Papagayo Peninsula, The Tamarindo/Flamingo area, The Nicoya Gulf and Peninsula area, the Los Suenos/Herradura area, the Quepos area, the Golfito and Osa Peninsula area, and the Caribbean area. The magazine also includes tournament calendars, tournament news and fishing club news, along with tide charts, bait and tackle shops, marine service providers, resort destinations, and much more. Don’t miss tournament results and pictures from the Pelagic Rockstar Tournament held At Marina Pez Vela in Quepos this past January. Look for more tournament results from the season in the next issue.

Get involved with our brag board where you have the opportunity to show off your catch in print, with all the bragging rights that come with it. Send your photos to mike@ coastalanglermagazine.com to get your catch in future issues. You can also see the digital side of the magazine at www.coastalanglermag.com/costa-rica. I hope you enjoy reading.

Tight Lines and Good Times Fishing Costa Rica!

Mike Erickson Publisher

Contact Us Mike Erickson • Publisher

Mike@CoastalAnglerMagazine.com Costa Rica Office 506.4700.6622 Costa Rica Cell 506.8444.8792 Costa Rica Office (US) 561.427.2137 US Cell 561.262.2242

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D R A O B G A R B Sunny smiles aboard Captain Skeet Warren’s “Bushwacker”

Dorado aboard Tres Ninas III with Travis Kite and Nick Gagnon Enjoying a bull mahi catch on the “Dream On” in Papagayo

Travis Kite aboard the Tres Ninas II with his first Marlin

Looking good at Nicoya East

Reel Escape Fishing Charter Hudson family, December 22, 2017 Drake Bay, Costa Rica, Mahi-Mahi & Tuna

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM I FEBRUARY / MARCH 2018 I COSTA RICA Send us your catch photos: mike@coastalanglermagazine.com

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On The Water with FECOP

By Todd Staley

FECOP Submits Criteria to License Greenstick Fishing in Costa Rica

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reenstick or “palo verde” as it is known in Costa Rica is not a new art of fishing. It has been used successfully for years in Japan and the United States in commercial and sport tuna fishing. Although not legal in Costa Rica, it has been used for several years in this country. The greenstick allows anglers to target tuna without almost any bycatch.

FECOP, Costa Rica’s sportfishing advocacy and conservation group’s Director of Science Moises Mug is a Masters of Science in Fisheries Biology and has been studying the tuna purse sein industry since 2001. His work convinced President Laura Chinchilla to sign a decree at the end of her term in 2013 that moved tuna purse sein operations 45 miles off the coast and protected a total of 120,000 square miles of ocean from tuna boats. Her predecessor, President Luis Guillermo Solis published the decree and it became law. Mug’s science convinced the government this year to reduce tuna licenses issued from 43 to 13.

Photo by Johnny Aguilar INA

of greenstick as well as vertically dropped lines for tuna. The plan is that eventually INA will add a “Green Stick” course to their fishing trade agenda training Costa Ricans on the proper use of them.

In Costa Rica all new or changed fishing rules must be backed by technical support. Rarely do they accept studies not done in Costa Rican waters. So even though greenstick fishing has proved successful in other parts of the world as a sustainable art of fishing, Costa Rica has yet officially approved their use.

“Costa Rica will greatly benefit from a wide adoption of green stick for tuna fishing, not only for commercial fishing but for sportfishing as well. A proper adoption and promotion of green stick fishing not only will provide social, economic and environmental benefits but will set an example for sustainable fisheries in Costa Rica”, said Mug. Once this project is in the hands of the board of directors of INCOPESCA, a vote is expected soon. With the demand for sustainable caught tuna on the International market it is expected tuna exporters will also support this license.

Sportfishing in the Olympics?

FECOP to Represent Costa Rica in Panamerican Sportfishing Delegation portfishing groups from the United States, Mexico and several Latin American countries met in Cancun, Mexico in late November for the inaugural assembly of the Panamerican Sportfishing Delegation. The purpose of the group is to promote sportfishing as a competitive sport and have a common front of on fisheries conservation. Goals are to have sportfishing placed in the Pan American Games and with cooperation from European countries, the long-term goal is to make sportfishing an Olympic sport. With golf, table tennis, and handball already Olympic sports and skateboarding, surfing, sports climbing, and mixed gender competition introduced to the 2020 Games, it is time to introduce sportfishing to the event.

According to the Confederation International of Sport Fishing, (CIPS) founded in 1952 in Rome Italy with 50 million members from 77 countries, the America’s are not yet sufficiently organized for sport fishing to be considered for the Olympics. The America’s include all countries from North, Central and South America.

The Federacion Costarricense de Pesca Turistica (FECOP) a Costa Rica non-profit which represents 8 Sportfishing Associations as well as the National Fishing Club and the Club Amateur de Pesca was asked to represent Costa Rica in the Panamerican delegation.

“It is very exciting to be chosen to represent Costa Rica,” said Carlos Cavero, President of FECOP. “We now have an open line of communication with other countries and will join the Americas in a single agency that represent sport fishing interests. Costa Rica has so much to offer the sport fishing world and has many anglers with the skills to compete on an International level.”

Four Panamerican tournaments are scheduled in 2018 representing different types of sport fish. A largemouth bass event will be held on Lake Okeechobee, Florida, snook in Tabasco, Mexico, and an offshore tournament at Isle Mujeres, Mexico. Costa Rica and FECOP will host the 2018 Panamerican Assembly next November followed by a 3-day International roosterfish tournament.

Costa Rica is world famous for its Pacific side billfish action. Marina Pez Vela and Los Suenos host several world class events. FECOP decided to pick a species accessible to many that offers anglers without big game skills a chance to do well and highlight the country’s fishery at the same time. Two species came to mind for a catch and release style tournament. All fish released will be marked with a spaghetti tag for scientific study. Roosterfish on the Pacific and tarpon on the Caribbean side of the country. FECOP decided to get a roosterfish tournament under its belt and add an International tarpon tournament in 2019.

S

100 kg yellowfin tuna taken on greenstick during research

Since late 2016 he has headed up a greenstick study involving FECOP, INCOPESCA,(the government agency in charge of fisheries), and INA, the technical learning institution that teaches different trades in Costa Rica including preparing students with the government requirements to work in commercial and sport fishing trades. FECOP has spent over $100,000 on equipment, and refurbishing and outfitting INA’s floating classroom, the Solidaridad. The research team is testing the efficiency, amount of bycatch

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The Hero Shot . . . A Call for Help!

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or the last 9 years it has been against the law in Costa Rica to remove a billfish from the water to take a photo. Everyone wants to go home with a picture of their prized fish for bragging rights. A fine of 2 million colones, (around $3500.00) can be imposed if you do in Costa Rica.

Science has shown the survival rate is lower on fish dragged over the gunnel and taken out of the water. Sadly, if you Google “sailfish Costa Rica” you will come up with site after site with photos of sailfish dragged over the gunnel for the “hero shot” Costa Rica’s history of poorly enforcing fishing regulations works to the advantage of sport fishermen this time but that does not make it right. I have yet to know anyone prosecuted for breaking this rule although there are examples plastered all over the internet of billfish out of the water. There was a time when charter operations felt they needed lots of fish nailed to a board at the dock to attract charters.

Photo by Todd Staley

Proper way to take “hero shot” with billfish

I have always thought there is a lot more to charter fishing than driving a boat and catching fish. A good charter operator is an Entertainer, Educator, and Communicator. What a horrible day on the water if fishing is slow and your crew hardly talks to you. A good and brief orientation before you leave the dock explaining to your customers, the position of safety equipment, types of fishing to be done that day and how, as well educating them on the law of removing fish from the water will go a long way in being considered a true professional with a concern in safe-guarding your catch and release fishery.

Your customers can still get a great photo at the side of the boat if you plan ahead. Tell them to have their camera ready and if someone is going to shoot a photo for them with their camera to make sure they know how to use it first. With the technology in cameras always changing it is easy to get great action shots these days.

Todd Staley has managed sportfishing operations in Costa Rica for 25 years.

He has been involved with FECOP since its inception and is former President of the group and was co-recipient of IGFA’s Chester H. Wolfe award in 2015 for his conservation efforts in Costa Rica. He is currently Fishing Columnist for the Tico Times and works full-time with FECOP as Director of Communications. Contact Todd at todd@fecop.org

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PAPAGAYO REPORT

By Rick Graham • Dream On Sportfishing

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reetings Anglers! The past couple of months have given us an incredible mahi mahi (dorado) fishery, which is beginning to wane as I write this. We also saw huge numbers of yellowfin tuna for a much longer time than usual. They weren’t lunkers . . . averaging about 25 pounds, but they were plentiful, and with excellent quality meat.

Our rainy season (Green Season) has now passed, and as we head into our summer, the windy season starts. Proper selection of the boat you are going to charter becomes very important this time of year. Choosing the right vessel is key to having an enjoyable, safe and successful charter. Dream On, for example, is a 10m (33’), 17,000 pound BlackFin. Legendary for the way they handle the big water. No lightweight materials used in the hull construction and an aggressively flared hull help her cut through big water safely and with ease.

We also change up our gear somewhat this time of year. We use the biggest, splashy-flashy teasers to help grab the attention of the big billfish this time of year . . . there is a lot going on from the fish’s perspective, looking up at the choppy water, so you need to grab their attention.

Traditionally February sees increasing numbers of dorado and sailfish, followed by marlin, tuna and wahoo in March. The roosterfish and snapper are strong throughout the year in our neck of the woods.

Until next time anglers . . . tight lines & Pura Vida!

Rick Graham represents Dream On Sport Fishing in Playas del Coco. After a lifetime of fishing as a hobbyist Rick decided one day to live his dream.

He sold everything, quit his job and bought a sport fishing business in Costa Rica. Rick has a full time crew with a combined 60+ years experience fishing these local waters. He also represents several other top notch local operators through his website www.

DreamOnSportFishing.com. Dream On ranks #1 in area boats by TripAdvisor and Rick personally responds to every inquiry received. Contact Rick at dreamonsportfishing@gmail.com 8 COSTA RICA I FEBRUARY / MARCH 2018 I COASTALANGLERMAG.COM

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Papagayo Penninsula Dream On Sportfishing

Costa Rica Fishing Trips

“Dream On”

“The Kiley”

506-8735-3121

(CR) 506-8331-2731

dreamonsportfishing@gmail.com

www.costa-rica-fishingtrips.com

Papagayo Sportfishing

“El Jefe”

“Victory”

(CR) 506-8835-5333

(CR) 506-8331-52731

(US) 832-447-4831

info@papagayofishingcharters.com

info@eljefecostarica.com

www.costa-rica-fishingtrips.com

Eljefecostarica.com

Papagayo Sportfishing

La Manta Sportfishing

“Barnacle II”

(CR) 506-8331-2731

(CR) 506-8697-5849

(US) 954-601-5141

info@papagayofishingcharters.com

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Zara Marina Papagayo Sport Fishing Yacht

“The Zara” (US) 678-622-8083

zaramarinapapagayo@gmail.com

info@papagayo.me

Costa Rica Fishing Trips

“Mi Sueno Angel” (CR) 506-8331-2731 (US) 954-601-5141

info@papagayosportfishing.com

www.zaramarinapapagayo.com

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“Fish Tale II”

Tunafish Sportfishing “Tuna Fish”

(CR) 506-2665-8746 (US) 407-557-8717

ccoronas@pexscr.com

(CR) 506 8764-9859 (US) 321-999-6987

info@tunafishsportfishing.com

www.pexscr.com/nautica/fish-tale-ii

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Costa Rica Fishing Charters “Dona Del Mar”

All Costa Rica Fishing “Plautus ”

(CR) 506-8817-6892 (US) 225-907-3225

www.costaricafishingcharters.com

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info@papagayo.me

www.dreamonsportfishing.com

(CR) 8359-9739

www.allcostaricafishing.com COASTALANGLERMAG.COM I FEBRUARY / MARCH 2018 I COSTA RICA 9

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FLAMINGO REPORT

By Captain Skeet Warren • “Bushwacker Sportfishing”

The tuna fishing should be good in the spinner dolphin schools. The dorado (mahi) fishing has been pretty consistent for quite a while so I would expect it to stay that way. No wahoo reports as of this writing, but they should be here by January and the bite should continue through the spring.

The wind has had the water stirred up inshore so the inshore fishing has been slow, but with the clean water pushing north, the inshore fishing should improve quickly. We have been finding the wind line to the south, where we can fish in much calmer water all day long and make for some enjoyable fishing for everyone.

February and March are a great time in the Flamingo area to catch a Grand Slam, which are 3 billfish species on the same day. Come charter a boat and see if you can’t be one of the few people that have ever accomplished this rare feat!

F

ebruary and March will bring on more marlin and sailfish, as the fishing should peak for our dry season. The clean water has pushed north and the marlin have shown up as always this time of the year. We are seeing mostly blue marlin with some striped marlin thrown in.

The sailfish are more scarce than usual, but they are starting to show up in bigger numbers. Conditions are improving daily with catch reports improving also.

Captain Skeet Warren owns and operates the Bushwacker, a 42’ Bertram out of Flamingo, Costa Rica. After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1980 he captained boats, fishing extensively, including Hawaii, the Caribbean, Central and South America, Australia, New Zealand, Madeira and Bermuda. He won the 2013 Top Tagging Captain in the Pacific Ocean for Sailfish. Some other notable catches include 13 blue and black marlin over 1000 lbs., 51 giant bluefin tuna in one day and 53 sailfish in one day. Contact Skeet at captskeet@bushwackercr.com or visit www.bushwackerCR.com

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Tamarindo / Flamingo “Permit III” (CR) 506-8833-0113

info@permit3.com

Capullo Sportfishing “Capullo” (CR) 506-8569-3516

www.permit3.com

fishtamarindo@gmail.com

“Gamefisher II” (CR) 506-8828-2287

Coyote Sportfishing” “Coyote 3”

(US) 904-410-1041

(CR) 506-8363-3509

melissa@gamefisher2.com

coyotesf@racsa.co.cr

www.capullo.com

www.gamefisher2.com

www.coyotesportfishingtamarindo.com

Kingpin Fishing “Kingpin II”

Bushwacker Sportfishing

(CR) 506-8705-7638 (US) 321-392-0197

(CR) 506-8380-0167

info@kingpin-sportfishing.com

captskeet@bushwackercr.com

www.kingpin-sportfishing.com

Flamingo Sportfishing “Guerrero Del Mar” (CR) 506-8389-5992

info@flamingosportfishing.com

www.flamingosportfishing.com

Flamingo Sportfishing “Spartacus” (CR) 506-8389-5992

info@flamingosportfishing.com

www.flamingosportfishing.com

Mar 1 Sportfishing “Wetass”

(US) 706-993-3959

www.bushwackercr.com

Brindisi Sportfishing (CR) 506-8432-5430

info@brindisigroup.com

www.brindisigroup.com

Yellow Fin Charters (CR) 506-2653-9024

info@yellowfinsportfishing.com

www.yellowfinsportfishing.com

“Senuelo Del Pacifico”

(US) 360-566-2339

(CR) 506-85675246

info@mar1sportfishing.com

olgamdiaz2011@hotmail.com

www.mar1sportfishing.com

FB Señuelo del Pacifico

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NICOYA WEST REPORT

By Rick Ruhlow • Kingfisher Sportfishing

NICOYA EAST REPORT

By Thomas Jones • Bahia Rica Fishing & Kayak Lodge

T

he marlin and sails have been trickling our way since the beginning of December, and most of the boats that have been getting out are at least having a shot at one or two. As we move into February we anticipate seeing a substantial increase in the amount of billfish being seen in the spread.

T For the meat hunters the mahi mahi bite has continued to be a constant source of action . . . and dinner! Boats have been putting at least one or two in the box almost every trip. The best news though, is the increase in the tuna activity. Almost all the schools of spinner dolphin have been holding tuna, and some of them sizeable.

While it is not always easy to get them to eat, if you have the patience and time, chances are you will eventually be rewarded with your rod bent over double, and you’ll be digging into a nice plate of sashimi on the ride home!

The Kingfisher closed out the year with a blue marlin, sailfish, and a couple of nice dorado, and brought the new year in with a pair of mahi, a sailfish, and a YFT in the 90 pound range! The best part of all is that this is just the beginning of our high season!

he fishing inshore has slowed a little as the clearer water has moved into the area. This makes catching bait a little more challenging. Still we are catching roosterfish, but not on every trip. There are patches of sardines moving in and finding these has given us some fun top water fishing. The offshore is getting good and we have some nice billfish action less than 25 miles out.

For the next couple of months, we expect more and more sardines to make their way into the gulf and along the coast. This drags with it a host of predators like snappers, seabass (corvina), rainbow runners, skipjack tuna, mackerel, jacks and roosterfish. This makes for excellent top water action. The jigging on the rocks usually picks up with jacks, seabass, snappers and amberjack making up most of the catch. The roosterfish are scarcer, but it is the time of the year when the big boys are caught. The key is having good bait.

Offshore should remain good with sailfish being the main catch. Marlin, tuna and mahi should also be around in smaller numbers. Tight lines to all!

Originally from California, Rick Ruhlow moved to Costa Rica over 33 years ago. While exploring the country he fished Playa Naranjo (gulf of Nicoya), Quepos, Drakes Bay and Flamingo, before discovering Playa Carrillo almost 28 years ago. He was the Fishing Manager/Captain for the newly re-opened Hotel Guanamar for three years, before venturing off on his own.

He has been owner/operator of Kingfisher Sportfishing since 1995. Contact Rick at kingfish@racsa.co.cr

Thomas Jones is a marine biologist with an extreme passion for sport fishing. Born in Norway, Thomas have been fishing since the age of 6. His fishing experience encompasses fly fishing, trolling, popping, jigging and bait fishing. Currently Thomas is the owner of Bahia Rica Fishing and Kayak Lodge on the Nicoya Peninsula. Contact Thomas at post@bahiarica.com or visit www.bahiarica.com

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Peninsula and Gulf of Nicoya Kingfisher Sportfishing

“Kingfisher”

Fishing Nosara “Wanderer” (CR) 506-2682-0606 (US) 904-591-2161

506- 8358-9561

kingfish@racsa.co.cr

craig@fishingnosara.com

www.costaricabillfishing.com

www.fishingnosara.com

Fun In The Sun “Ticorette”

On The Fly Charters “On The Fly”

(CR) 506-8682-9495 (US) 541-383-5108

(CR) 506-8891-3853 (US) 385-313-0079

info@nosarafishingtrips.com

captain@costacaptain.com

Samara Deep Sea Fishing

Nosara Fish and Surf “Sunset 420”

(CR) 506 8683-8743

(CR) 506-6131-6215

www.nosarafishingtrips.com

www.costacaptain.com

samaradeepseafishing@gmail.com

joel.juarez.cr@gmail.com

www.samaradeepseafishing.com

ww.nosarafishandsurf.com

“Reel Deal”

Nosara Sea Saw Tours “See Saw”

(CR) 506-8396-9894

(CR) 506-8627-0139

cbarrantes1411@hotmail.com

www.reeldealcostaricasportfishing.com

nosaraseasawtours@gmail.com

www.nosaraseasawtours.com

Fishing Nosara “Adventurer”

Fishing Nosara “Discoverer”

(CR) 506-2682-0606 (US) 904-591-2161

(CR) 506-2682-0606 (US) 904-591-2161

craig@fishingnosara.com

craig@fishingnosara.com

www.fishingnosara.com

www.fishingnosara.com

Bahia Rica Fishing Lodge

Bahia Rica Fishing Lodge

“El Mono Congo”

“The Conquistador”

(CR) 506-2641-0811

(CR) 506-2641-0811

post@bahiarica.com

post@bahiarica.com

www.bahiarica.com

www.bahiarica.com

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LOS SUENOS OFFSHORE REPORT

By Captain Daniel Espinosa • Maverick Sport Fishing

C

osta Rica may not have the same sharp contrasts between the seasons for weather, but with the New Year changes are happening in the fishing scene.

Mahi are showing up in numbers this year. It has been a while. Boats out of Los Suenos are reporting multi fish mahi counts on a regular basis. Some yellowfin tuna continue to populate local waters as well.

All well and good, but the big news are the marlin. Costa Rica has become known as the top blue marlin fishery anywhere right now, mostly due to the incredible action on the local sea mounts. The news is that marlin are much closer in now.

Several Grand Slams of three different bill fish species on one day have been reported in the weeks surrounding New Year’s. The 50’ Maverick, Open Fly, reported two Grand Slams in two days including one involving three species of marlin. Not many of those world-wide in any year.

Lots of boats, big and small, are reporting multi marlin days out of Los Suenos on day trips.

Double digit blue marlin continue to be reported from the sea mounts.

Sailfish are showing up in increasing numbers with several boats going double digits recently.

Seas are calm to dead flat many days, and the heavy rains are mostly gone now. Great fishing, great food and accommodations, with lots for non-fishing people to do while warming the pan for a big mahi feast.

Fish Los Suenos, we do.

Aracelio Garcia • ABYC Certified Marine Electrician

506 8322-5873 • arasoprano@hotmail.com

Captain Daniel Espinosa has been fishing these waters for almost 30 years, starting at the age of 14.

Born in Quepos, Daniel first fished as a Captain at age 17, and has not finished yet. Currently General Manager of Maverick Sportfishing Yachts, Daniel is owner of the Spanish Fly which he ran full time for 12 years, releasing a documented count of over 10,000 bill fish releases. His lifetime total exceeds 22,000.

A pioneer in sportfishing in Costa Rica, Daniel has captained tournament winning boats in several Central American countries. His wins include the Los Suenos series and the WBS World Championship. He lives with his wife and family in the Los Suenos area.

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LOS SUENOS INSHORE REPORT

By Captain Carlos Arguedas • Wing Man

F

ishing inshore out of Los Sueños this year has been unbelievable good for mahi mahi very close to shore. Rooster fishing had some very good days with live bait seeing up to 15 or 20, all medium size, 10 to 20 lbs along the beach, as well as good catches of Travallys.

Amazing fishing for small cuberas up to 10 lbs and good size yellowtail snappers and mullett snappers that we catch in light tackle, making it very enjoyable for kids and families.

On the other hand, fishing the reef means we’re still getting amazing size cuberas up to 45 lbs., as well as good size amberjacks.

Come and enjoy live baiting and have the chance to see the snapper show on the top, blasting on the baits.

Thanks a lot for being part of our readership base.

Captain Carlos Arguedas of the Wing Man and been fishing the area of Herradura Bay since 1990. fishing along the shore for roosters, bluefin trevally, etc. and the reefs near us for big Cubera, Goliath groupers, Amberjacks and Broom Tail groupers. Now based at Los Sueños Marina, the Wing Man boasts being the boat with the most trips inshore, making Carlos a specialist when it comes to keeping track of inshore bait and fish. Along the years he has found a knack to being very productive catching big fish, including goliaths and broomtails. Contact Carlos at hihook1@ hotmail.com or visit www.wingmancr.com 16 COSTA RICA I FEBRUARY / MARCH 2018 I COASTALANGLERMAG.COM

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Los Suenos / Herradura Wing Man Charters “Wing Man”

Maverick Tours “Spanish Fly”

(CR) 506-8305-5051

(CR) 506-8787-9314 (US) 866-888-6426

hihook1@hotmail.com

http://wingmancr.com

christian@maverickcostarica.com

Sueltalo Sportfishing “Sueltalo”

Maverick Tours “Geaux Fly”

(CR) 506-8601-1777

(CR) 506-8787-9314 (US) 866-888-6426

www.maverickcostarica.com

sueltalo1@hotmail.com

www.sueltalosportfishing.com

christian@maverickcostarica.com

Tres Amigos Sportfishing

“Tres Amigos”

Maverick Tours “Sea Fly”

(CR) 506-8898-5323 (US) 508-720-0077

(CR) 506-8787-9314 (US) 866-888-6426

gggiampapa@hotmail.com

christian@maverickcostarica.com

www.tresamigossportfishing.com

www.maverickcostarica.com

“Dragin Fly”

Maverick Tours “Open Fly”

(CR) 506-2643-5310 (US) 252-671-3474

(CR) 506-8787-9314 (US) 866-888-6426

info@pamlicoguide.com

christian@maverickcostarica.com

www.draginflycostarica.com

www.maverickcostarica.com

Epic SportFishing “Epic”

Maverick Tours “Super Fly”

(CR) 506-8718-2357 (US) 561-459-5355

(CR) 506-8787-9314 (US) 866-888-6426

epicfishingcr@gmail.com

christian@maverickcostarica.com

Dragin Fly Sportfishing

www.epicfishingcostarica.com

“Tijereta” (CR) 506-8650-2203 (US) 843-547-0341

captbubbacarter@yahoo.com

www.captbubbacarter.com

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www.maverickcostarica.com

www.maverickcostarica.com

Sunny One Sportfishing

“Sunny One” (CR) 506-8510-7427 (US) 866-439-5922

info@stayincostarica.com www.stayincostarica.com/sunnyone

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QUEPOS INSHORE REPORT

By Captain Scott Kozak • “Chloe Frijole”

A

fter a long and rainy season, a hurricane, and major flooding, the inshore waters off Quepos have cleaned up. The clean water has brought in plenty of sardines for you to catch with your sabiki rig.

For the next couple of months the roosterfish can be caught trolling the surf along one of our many beaches, and on the well formed rock formations. You may also want to try casting a large popper on spinning gear for some fast action.

If you choose to fish the river mouths, a nice snook may be in store for you.

Contact one of the great captains in the Quepos charter fleet for your inshore fishing experience.

Born in Toledo, Ohio, Scott Kozak started fresh water fishing as a youngster in the Great Lakes, fishing for walleye and perch, and later for salmon and lake trout. Scott moved on to salt water fishing in 2012 fishing for tuna and sailfish on the Atlantic coast. In 2014 his focus shifted to bill fishing in Central America. In 2016 Scott and his family bought a home in Quepos and soon after purchased an inshore charter boat, Chloe Frijole. Scott is an accomplished angler, placing in several billfish tournaments, as well as winning the West Palm Beach Fishing Club international angler award. Contact Scott at captainkozak@gmail.com 22 COSTA RICA I FEBRUARY / MARCH 2018 I COASTALANGLERMAG.COM

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QUEPOS OFFSHORE REPORT

By Benn Gilmour • Jackpot Sport Fishing

T

he bite is on here at the Marina Pez Vela, Quepos! Our season got off to flyer with an incredible November, December and January, with lots of happy visiting anglers from the world over coming to fish here in Quepos to experience our amazing fishery for themselves.

It was dorado galore as the season got underway in November and then the variety kicked in during December and January with sailfish, marlin and tuna, in addition to the dorado.

We expect the great fishing to continue through February in what is considered one of the peak billfish months in the Quepos calendar. Most

anglers travel here to get in on the big Pacific sailfish action, which should be plentiful through February, with fish being in the 70-140 lb. range. Double digit sailfish release days and multiple hookups are common, and you can expect opportunities at blue, striped & black marlin also.

The Quepos charter fleet have caught some fantastic marlin recently, helping many anglers check another important item off their bucketlist. There will be yellowfin tuna offshore, which are caught alongside megapods of spinner dolphins. If you are lucky enough to see the spinner dolphins on your charter, this is a spectacle in itself and National Geographic stuff for sure! We catch lots of 30-50 lb. tuna while trolling bucktail jigs, tuna bullets, squidnation slammers and other small artificials. If it’s big tuna that you want, then a live bonito, blue runner or goggle eye is the preferred bait for the big guys, and there are 200 lb. plus fish to be caught.

We have some excellent boats & captains in the Quepos fleet which are listed here in the charter directory.

Tight Lines & hope to see you out there!

Benn Gilmour runs Jackpot Sport Fishing out of the beautiful Marina Pez Vela in Quepos. His boat Good Day is a Costa Rican custom built 31-foot Sport Fisher. Jackpot Sport Fishing specializes in offshore, inshore & fly fishing. They cater to serious anglers who come to fish with them for a week, as well as families and honeymooners looking for a day on the water during their vacation in Quepos/ Manuel Antonio. Benn says hello to you if you are down at the Marina Pez Vela. Look for the British guy! Contact Benn at info@jackpotsportfishing.com or visit www.jackpotsportfishing.com

We specialize in expert repair and service for all production and custom boats With Bristol, we offer the entire boating community attention to detail, expert care, and customer service that current clients have been enjoying for years in Marina Pez Vela, Los Sueños and all around the world.

• Cockpit &mezzanine retrofits • Full paint service • Bottom paint removal & painting • Exterior & interior wood working and refinishing

• Teak decks, covering boards, & custom teak fabrication • Running gear & prop speed • Customized cockpit & flybridge fabrication • Tuna tube & livewell system design and fabrication

“When Only the Best will do!” - Ben White, President CR: (506) 8919-7644 US: (954) 278-7412 lsbristolyacht-refinishing@yahoo.com • boatworksint@yahoo.com 24 COSTA RICA I FEBRUARY / MARCH 2018 I COASTALANGLERMAG.COM

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Quepos Tres Niñas Tours & Boat Rental “Tres Ninas”

Jackpot Sportfishing “Good Day”

(CR) 506-8305-0041 (US) 561-427-1306

(CR) 506-8458-4997

info@jackpotsportfishing.com

info@tresninasboatrental.com

www.jackpotsportfishing.com

Pez Espada Sportfishing

iFish Quepos “Frenzy”

www.tresninastours.com

(CR) 506-8409-2461 (US) 518-587-3380

info@pezespadaspofishing.com

(CR) 506-2774-9006/9010

info@ifishquepos.com

www.pezespadasportfishing.com

www.ifishquepos.com

Quepos Sailfishing “Front Row”

Boomerang Luxury SportFishing & Charters

(CR) 506-2777-2025 (US) 800-603-0015

(CR) 506-8730-5654

info@queposfishingpackages.com

kenincostarica@yahoo.com

www.queposfishingpackages.com

Wyrica Adventures “Amys Dream” (US) 888-499-7422

www.wyrica.com

“Boomerang”

www.fishboomerangcr.weebly.com

Tranquilo Charters “Tranquilo” (CR) 506-6208-7620 (US) 910-338-3474

info@tranquilocharters.com

www.tranquilocharters.com

Big Eye Charters “Big Eye & Big Eye II”

Costa Mar Fishing “Fishing Machine”

(CR) 506-8379-1702 (US) 251-752-0235

(CR) 506-8396-5092

funfishingcostarica@yahoo.com

www.fishingcostarica.net

fishraulquepos@hotmail.com

www.costamarfishing.com

G-Fly Sport Fishing “Chloe Frijole”

Maverick Tours “Pacific Fly”

(CR) 506-6426-3964

(US) 866-888-6426

(US) 419-349-8069

captainkozak@gmail.com

info@mavericksportfish.com

www.maverickcostarica.com

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Billfish Release

Rank Team 1 Game Plan 2 Big Oh 3 Tag Team 4 Frenzy 5 The Hooker 6 Morgasm 7 Dragin Fly 8 Pelagic Girl 9 Tuna Trapp 10 Sea Angel

FishLog

Team Pelagic Girl Sea Angel Tag Team Goose Tuna Trapp Big Oh Frenzy Caliente Marlin Darlin Reel Doc

CatchStats

Points 2000 1600 1600 1500 1400 1300 1200 1200 1100 1100

Angler Heather Lee Nolan Raviswinter Emilio Munquel Michelle John Lomcarz Sergio Vargas Andrei Brodxells Tom Furlow John Graff Kim Manning

Team Count Angler Count Billfish Count Black Marlin Count Blue Marlin Count Striped Marlin Count Pacific Sailfish Count Dorado Count Yellowfin Tuna Count Billfish per Team

Species Blue Marlin Blue Marlin Pacific Sailfish Pacific Sailfish Pacific Sailfish Pacific Sailfish Pacific Sailfish Pacific Sailfish Blue Marlin Blue Marlin

Tuna Gamefish Division Rank 1 2 3 4 5

Team

Dragin Fly Frenzy

Game Plan Team Lutgens Slaughterhouse

Dorado Gamefish Division Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Team

Billfish Carte Goose

Miss Behavin Sante

Fatherz and Sonz Good Times Slaughterhouse Caliente

Monique

Pelagic Girl

Small Boat Billfish Release Rank Team 1 Fishizzle 2 Amy’s Dream 3 Gamefisher 4 Mar I 5 Los Gatos

Points 800 600 500 400 400

Catch Time 1.13.18 04:13:09 1.13.18 02:57:08 1.13.18 02:55:58 1.13.18 02:54:05 1.13.18 02:53:02 1.13.18 02:52:04 1.13.18 02:45:08 1.13.18 02:43:55 1.13.18 02:37:54 1.13.18 02:34:06

Day 1 28.9 36.4 31.7 26.2 15.6

Day 2 33.4 – – – –

Points 62.3 36.4 31.7 26.2 15.6

Day 1 23.2 42.8 32 52.1 25 22.9 20.6 18.6 21.3 20

Day 2 43.8 20.3 21.3 – 23.1 25.1 26.3 23.9 19.7 20.2

Points 67 63.1 53.3 52.1 48.1 48 46.9 42.5 41 40.2

Points 300 300 100 100 100 100 100 100 300 300

Small Boat Dorado Gamefish Division Rank 1 2 3 4

Team Gamefisher Amy’s Dream Good Day Los Gatos

Small Boat Tuna Gamefish Division Rank Team 1 Gamefisher

45 243 201 3 57 5 136 86 14 4.47

Day 1 21.3

Day 1 Day 2 24.6 18.3 25.5 – 20.3 – 20.1 –

Day 2 –

Points 42.9 25.5 20.3 20.1

Points 21.3

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TOURNAMENT NEWS

LOS SUENOS TRIPLE CROWN February 28 - March 3 Los Suenos Triple Crown - Leg II

March 21 - 24 Los Suenos Triple Crown - Leg III

I

n 2014 we introduced the annual Los Sueños Signature Triple Crown billfish tournament after hosting the extremely successful Los Sueños Signature Billfish Series for 10 consecutive years.

It can be safely said that it was it was a huge success solidifying Los Sueños’ place as the billfish capital of the world. During the 2016 Los Sueños Signature Triple Crown an incredible 6,570 billfish were released during 9 days of fishing by an average of 43 teams, breaking all previous Los Sueños tournament records. Word has spread far and wide – if you want to catch fish and compete with the world’s best billfishing teams, you need to be in Los Sueños and participate in the Signature Triple Crown.

For more information call: Direct +011-506-2630-4000 • Toll free : +1866-865-9759 or email to: a.bretecher@lossuenos.com

lstournaments.com

TOURNAMENT CALENDAR April 15-20, 2018 2018 OFFSHORE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP Where: Marina Pez Vela Quepos, Costa Rica Cost: $12,750 Per Team Extra Angler: $750 The Offshore World Championship in Quepos, Costa Rica is the largest and most prestigious sport-fishing tournament in the world. The world-class event, held in Quepos, Puntarenas near Manuel Antonio National Park includes 55 of the world’s best sport fishing teams. More than 300 people will compete to see who has the most releases of billfishes, as well as dorados, tunas and other species.

Each type of fish is assigned a certain number of points.

For info visit www.offshoreworldchampionship.com

August 10-12, 2018 PRESIDENTIAL FLAMINGO FISHING RODEO The tournament’s mission statement is to publicize Flamingo as the fishing destination that it used to be by helping charter captains book clients to fish this event. It will also create an increased awareness of Flamingo and the northern Pacific region of Costa Rica as a world class fishing destination. The event will offer a minimal entry fee, just $100 for a team of up to four anglers, and will have minimal rules—just go fishing and have a great time. The tournament will also benefit not only marine conservation in Costa Rica but also a local charity called Abriendo Mentes, which is a nonprofit organization to help provide assistance to people in that part of Costa Rica to have access to enhanced education and employment opportunities. Charter Boats are Encouraged!

For more contact info@preschallenge.com or visit www.preschallenge.com

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DRAKE BAY REPORT

By Captain Willie Atencio

G

reetings from the beautiful and uncrowded waters of Drake Bay and the Osa Peninsula. We are pleased to report that we have had a very solid December. Lots of mahi mahi (dorado) were caught trolling both ballyhoo and lures. Small to medium sized tuna are being caught around Cano Island while schools of big yellowfin and bigeye are being found 30-40 miles offshore. To catch bigger tuna, figuring out what they are biting on is a process of elimination. Our go to methods include casting big, brightly colored top water plugs, slow trolling live bonita, and casting or trolling speed jigs and cedar plugs.

January and February are prime months for both fishing and tourists, as the weather is hot and dry. This is also the time of the year when the big Pacific sailfish begin to move in.

Last season was a bit unique as we actually saw almost as many marlin as we did sailfish.

Regardless of which beautiful billfish shows up, we will be ready to put our clients on these hard fighting beauties. Visit our website and contact us today at www.FishDrakeBay.com!

The Captain of Fish Drake Bay, Willy Atencio is a native of the local area.

Fish Drake Bay is the premier sport fishing charter service in Drake Bay, the surrounding Osa peninsula and Corcovado National Park. Captain Willy is considered one of the best Captains in Costa Rica with over 20 years experience. Willy has captained sport fishing yachts ranging from 31-47 feet in the USA, Caribbean and Costa Rica. He has also fished in numerous big game fishing tournaments including the Offshore World Championships for 5 consecutive years. Contact Willie at info@fishdrakebay.com

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GOLFITO REPORT

By Captain German Bustos

I

am sure a lot of reports from different areas will sound the same. But around Golfito, there is a good bite of dorado this year. They have been sorely missed the last couple of years but here in the southern zone, as I guess in the rest of the country, there have been lots of them. Tuna to 100 lbs. have been caught regularly, with the protection for tuna against purse sein boats within the first 45 miles working well. A group of sails showed at the end of the year and should be coming up in the teasers in double digits through March.

Those running to the FAD’s have been crunching the marlin. Several boats out of Golfito and Jimenez are now doing two-day trips to the FAD’s.

Inside roosterfish and snapper have been cooperative. In Late February and March Pacific red snapper and grouper will move into around 200 foot of water. Amberjack, horse-eye jack and African pompano will also be active over the reefs.

Most anglers will be using a variety of live baits available in the area, like herring, goggle-eye, blue runners and moonfish. Those willing to put in the effort can have fun with popping lures.

German Bustos has been head captain at Crocodile Bay Resort for the last dozen years after working on prestigious sportfishing boats all throughout Central America for nearly 20 years. He is one of the most requested captains at Crocodile Bay.

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Golfito / Osa Peninsula Fish Drake Bay “Reel Time”

Crocodile Bay Sportfishing

(US) 855-372-5322

(US) 800-733-1115

todd@crocodilebay.com

fishdrakeba@yahoo.com

www.crocodilebay.com

www.fishdrakebay.com

Thumper Blue Water Expeditions “Thumper”

“Incommunicado” (US) 800-705-3474

(US) 717-598-5733

captkeithtx@gmail.com

thumperbluewater@gmail.com

www.fishgolfito.com

“Muy Caliente”

“Rosa Maria”

(US) 800-705-3474

(CR) 506-2775-0255

captkeithtx@gmail.com

hookedupcostarica@gmail.com

www.fishgolfito.com

www.getmyboat.com

“Cazador”

Fish Drake Bay “Reel Escape”

(US) 800-407-9438

(US) 855-372-5322

info@americanacr.com

fishdrakeba@yahoo.com

thumperbluewater.com

www.fishdrakebay.com

Albatross Sportfishing & Aquatic Adventure Tours

“Albatross”

Costa Rica Sportfishing

“The Hepcat” (CR) 506-2282-7215

(CR) 506-2296-2190

americanacostarica@gmail.com

brad@aguiladeosa.com

www.aguiladeosa.com

www.4costaricafishing.com

The Zancudo Lodge “The Zancudo Lodge”

Sierpe Fishing “Eagle Claw”

(US) 800-854-8791

(CR) 506-8848-8914

reservations@thezancudolodge.com

sierpefishing@gmail.com

www.thezancudolodge.com

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Costa Rica TIDES Quepos February

Quepos March

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CLUB AMATEUR DE PESCA

FLY FISHING REPORT

By Mark Evans

S For more info contact clubamateurpesca@racsa.co.cr or visit www.facebook.com/Club-Amateur-de-Pesca-284789318306410

T

ummer time fly-fishing has started with a bang in Costa Rica, from blue water to the mountain streams.

Justin from Caribsea Sportfishing out of Quepos hooked and released a beautiful striped marlin on our run out to the fads and raised eight more. We had two more hooked and missed our chances. Gotta do it again!

More reports and photos from the Quepos area of big schools of Roosters inshore, so get out there!

he Club Amateur de Pesca begins 2018 with the Pez Vela and Marlin Tournament, renewing its regulations so that fishermen can now have more competition. With more than 35 fishermen ready, our first tournament just completed last month from January 26-28.

Our second tournament date is set for February 23-24-25 and the group gets bigger because the competition gets stronger.

On March 9-10-11 the International Pez Vela tournament will be held in the Marina Pez Vela de Quepos where we already have fishermen from Guatemala, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, USA, Venezuela and many ticos. For this event the program is quite varied, with fishing, social events, awards and a whole host of sponsors who will have the opportunity to exhibit their brands during the activity.

The International Pez Vela Tournament Schedule is as follows: Thursday, March 8 2:00 pm 4:00 pm 5:00 pm 7:00 pm

Anglers registration at the Marina Captain and crew meeting at the Marina Anglers meeting at the Marina Pez Vela Cocktail Party at the Marina Pez Vela

Friday, March 9 First Fishing Day 5:00 am Breakfast 6:00 am Boarding time 8:00 am Fishing begins for the day 3:30 pm Fishing ends 6:30 pm Cocktail Party at the Marina Pez Vela Saturday, March 10 Second Fishing Day 5:00 am Breakfast 6:00 am Boarding time 8:00 am Fishing begins for the day 3:30 pm Fishing ends 6:30 pm Cocktail Party at the Marina Pez Vela Sunday, March 11 Third Fishing Day 5:00 am Breakfast 6:00 am Boarding time 8:00 am Fishing begins for the day 3:00 pm Fishing for the Tournament ends 6:00 pm Cocktail Party and Awards Ceremony at the Marina Pez Vela Monday, March 12 6:00 am

8:00 am

Departure to San Jose Departure to San Jose

Further North in Guanacaste Capt’n Jesse Males of Backwater Fly Fishing and the gang were slamming the yellowfin tunas and roosterfish from kayaks.

Countless yellowfins on two separate trips and three beautiful roosters were brought in for photos! Big streamers were the order of the day!

As we move inland to the Rio Sarapiqui, Wilmer of Sarapiqui Fishing has been having some epic days fishing Machaca. Days of fifteen plus fish have been caught and released on the float trips and Javier from Stone Mountain Outdoors landed several fish from his kayak on a tough day with high water conditions.

Back to the mountains in San Gerardo de Dota, fly fishing addict Paul Fandre had an epic weekend releasing more than 40 Tico Trout. Prince Nymphs and the Pass Lake 14’s were his flies of choice and they proved to be spot on!

As we progress in to the summer season expect the fly-fishing opportunities to continue improving. Great opportunities will be awaiting the fly angler from shore with more bait arriving. Tie it on!

2018 TOURNAMENT PROGRAM SCHEDULE • BOYAS – APRIL 13, 14 & 15 • OFFSHORE TOURNAMENT – JUNE 9 & 10 • TARPON TOURNAMENT

– MAY 11, 12 & 13

– AUGUST 17, 18 & 19

– SEPTEMBER 14, 15 & 16

– OCTOBER 19, 20 & 21

Having graduated from cane pole fishing as a kid to more technical equipment these days, Mark Evans prefers floating the many rivers of Costa Rica in his kayak, with a fly rod in hand. Mark is one of the founding members of the Costa Rica Association of Fly Fishers (CRAFF) and two-time national fly fishing champion in the Club Amateur de Pesca of Costa Rica (CAP)

• PUNTA LEONE TOURNAMENT – NOVEMBER • ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF TROPHIES & AWARDS – NOVEMBER COASTALANGLERMAG.COM I FEBRUARY / MARCH 2018 I COSTA RICA 33

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Your Guide to Fishing News and Information in Costa Rica Contact Us

Mike@CoastalAnglerMagazine.com CoastalAnglerMag.com/costa-rica

Costa Rica Office 506.4700.6622 Costa Rica Office (US) 561.427.2137

Costa Rica Cell 506.8444.8792 US Cell 561.262.2242

34 COSTA RICA I FEBRUARY / MARCH 2018 I COASTALANGLERMAG.COM

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By Jimmy T’s Provisions

Recipe Corner

J

immy T’s Provisions in Los Sueños Marina provides gourmet food for boats all along the pacific coast of Costa Rica, from Papagayo to Golfito. Their favorite line of work? On-site private chef services. We asked them for a classic recipe that people are always asking for, and they told us this BBQ Pulled Pork recipe is a favorite!

BBQ Pulled Pork - 5 kilos Ingredients: 5 kl Pork 1/2 Cup Jimmy Ts Pork Seasoning (Cumin, paprika, cajun spice) 3 tbs Kosher Salt 2 tbs Black Pepper 2 Litros Water 32 oz Bbq Sauce 16 oz Red Hot Sauce

Instructions: Cut the pork in 300g pieces Add the seasoning and mix well Add the water Cook for 3 hours at 380 degrees Pull the meat and add bbq and red hot sauce

Serve either in quesadilla or with sides dishes or rice, beans and coleslaw

Jimmy T’s Provisions & Gourmet Foods Los Suenos Marina Shop 011-506-2637-8636 Cell (Costa Rica): 8682-7090

A

s a former chef on a megayacht, Jimmy T’s owner Jimmy Tancrell, often had difficulty finding local suppliers who could provide the foodstuffs and condiments necessary for the gourmet meals expected by his clients.

During long days at sea under star-filled skys, the crew and staff would talk about their dreams of ‘life after yachting’. And for Jimmy Tancrell a dream was born … to provide a service for other ‘yachty’ chefs who were in the same boat as Jimmy so far as the need for adequately stocking their galleys with condiments, spices, good beef, fresh vegetables, fruits and cheeses.

Life after yachting led him to Los Suenos at Herradura on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific coast where Jimmy had already discovered the year ’round availability of wonderful fresh fruits and vegetables offered on Fridays at Jaco’s Mercado Movil or farmers market. A store became available dockside at Los Suenos and Jimmy T’s Provisions and Gourmet foods opened in May 2007.

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Fish wide open.

If you want to experience true fishing freedom, book a light-tackle charter in The Florida Keys. Our open fish captains are the best in the business. Dolphin, tuna, grouper, marlin, sailfish, cobia, wahoo – the possibilities are endless. Show up, fish, walk away (very likely with a smile and fillets). fla-keys.com 1.800.fla.keys

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Telling Good Fish Stories

By Matt Jorn

Laura Price of Lexington, N.C. and a nice Dorado caught with the FishingNosara Explorer on Dec. 5, 2017.

“W

hat did you catch today?” It is a question asked at every marina, boat ramp and backyard dock in the world every day of the fishing calendar.

This is your chance to hold up your catch, your fillet bag or your digital camera. It is a chance to reveal (or conceal) details regarding where and how you snared your prey.

It is also the chance to spin a wonderful tale of the leviathan that you fought for hours, had right next to the boat, and locked eyes with only to have it spit the hook/break the leader/get caught on the props/ pull you overboard… we’ve all been there!

Even the master angler and author Ernest Hemingway’s beloved “The Old Man and the Sea” is a fish tale, featuring the angler we all wish we were losing the fish we all wish we could catch.

The craft of embellishing your catch is a time-honored tradition; however as the curator of the FishingNosara Costa Rica Fishing Report, I take umbrage with the 21st century version of the fish story.

For the last seven years, I have documented every one of the 2,000plus trips run by the Nosara, Costa Rica based fishing team. Each report is meticulously checked for accuracy, including the angler’s names, trip date, fish caught, and (most importantly) photographs of the catches.

I also encourage my clients to offer their own stories from the fishing experience. In December 2017, we hosted Laura and Michael Price. Here’s what Laura wrote: “My husband and I went out today on the Explorer. We had an AMAZING time!!! We ended the day with six mahi mahi caught with one mahi mahi, one tuna and one marlin getting away. Phenomenal crew! We loved every minute of it!”

Here is another example, this time from angler Kevin Bahr: “We went with Capt. William and his mate Johnny. They were very professional and ready to ensure we had a successful outing on May 12. The weather was pretty sketchy, but we were able to locate the fish and ended up with a freezer full of ahi and mahi mahi. We cut our day short due to the weather, but our crew was willing to stay out longer if we wanted to. Despite the weather, it was a great day!”

Everyone knows that the Internet is a place where the line between fact and fiction is often blurry; from politics, to sports, to fishing—it is not always easy to separate the truth, from an opinion, from a sales pitch. For instance, a quick glance at a competing Central American fishing charter’s report looks like this: Dec 27, 3 sailfish, 6 mahi-mahi, 1 marlin.

Dec 28, 7 sailfish, 2 marlin.

Dec 29, 5 mahi-mahi, 3 yellowfin tuna, 1 sailfish.

Who is this helping? Why no details, no photos? Is this for search engines, the illiterate, or the lazy?

I put it to all anglers in the 21st century posting online: Tell me a good fish story or log-off.

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Accommodations are nestled on 6 lush tropical acres of pristine waterfront directly on the Indian River Lagoon. As you make your way down the one lane road you will truly be stepping back in time. Your hosts Kim and Robert Pruitt have re-captured the very best of Old Florida charm with modern conveniences and services to make your stay truly memorable and unforgettable.

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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT INTERLUX MICRON EXTRA ANTI-FOULING PAINT Anglers across the country will be glad to hear that Micron Extra—the classleading antifouling that delivers consistent, multiseason protection against all forms of fouling—is back in stock, thanks to the renewed manufacturing of one of its raw ingredients. Providing boaters with the signature proven performance of the Interlux Micron range, Micron Extra uses Biolux technology to achieve complete protection against shell, weed and slime fouling in all waters fresh and salt.

By combining the slime-blocking capabilities of Biolux with a controlled solubility copolymer that releases active ingredients steadily over time, Micron Extra achieves long-lasting, full-spectrum defense against fouling organisms. This copolymer matrix gradually wears away like a layer of soap as the boat moves through water, via a steady polishing process.

The result is a continuous, regulated delivery of biocides from each freshly exposed layer, ensuring consistent, long-lasting performance and maximum efficiency.

Micron Extra retains full antifouling effectiveness when hauled, and can be relaunched without repainting. Stop by your local shipstore or boatyard and ask for Micron Extra, available in both quarts and gallons, and in all popular colors.

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GAME CHANGER FishSUP FS126

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The Stand-Up Paddleboard Designed Especially For Anglers • 12’6” x 40” x 6” provides incredible stability • Heavy duty 2 layer drop stitch construction • Motormount for up to 55lb thrust motor • 15 D-Rings for gear & leash • Paddle standing or sitting • Packs down to 45” x 15” x 10” For a FREE Catalog 800-944-7496 M-F 9-5 EST Dept CS028B 19 N Columbia St, Ste 1, Port Jefferson, NY 11777

SEA EAGLE FISHSUP FS126

By CAM Staff • Photo Courtesy of Sea Eagle Boats Last spring we introduced you to Sea Eagle’s FishSUP FS126, an inflatable stand-up paddleboard with which we were initially quite impressed. A year later, we’re fully convinced this super-stable, lightweight fishing machine is worth the praise.

“I’m thrilled with its performance,” said Coastal Angler’s Tom Schlichter.

“I’ve fished it from Long Island, N.Y. to the Florida Keys in everything from mangroves to bulrushes and boulder fields, and it’s come through unscathed.”

At 12’6”x40” the FishSUP FS126 is both spacious and tough enough to work hardened shorelines. Heavy duty .90 drop stitch material covers the top, bottom and sides for superior protection against punctures and a 90”x18” thick camo EVA pad adds additional buffering while providing a non-slip foot bed. An integral 36-inch ruler makes fish measurement a snap. It fits in a trunk for easy transport, fully inflates in under 10 minutes, and has smartly positioned D-rings to secure a host of standard and optional fishing accessories including a swivel seat with Scotty rod holders, battery, 34-lb thrust electric motor, and forward mesh storage box with tube-style rod holders.

“I love the stability, toughness and versatility of this platform,” said Schlichter. “You can stand, sit or kneel while casting, fish in freshwater or saltwater, and even add an optional Watersnake Venom 34 electric trolling motor.”

Prices range from $799 for a basic start-up kit to $1,149 for a Pro Motor and Fishing Rig package.

FOR MORE INFO,

VISIT WWW.SEAEAGLE.COM OR CALL 1-800-748-8066.

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eginning Feb. 1, crappie anglers will have the chance to win part of $172,000 in cash prizes being awarded in the 2018 Weiss Lake Crappie Rodeo in Alabama.

More than 1,000 pink-tagged crappie were released into the reservoir on the Alabama/Georgia border. Each of those fish has been sponsored by a local merchant or individual, and tags carry cash prizes ranging from $50 to $10,000.

The rodeo, being conducted by the Weiss Lake Improvement Association, will run Feb. 1 through April 15. A highlight new to this year’s event is the One Day Crappie Champion Tournament, which will be held March 31. Guaranteed payout for first place is $2,500, and Big Fish will award $1,000 in this 100-percent payback event. There will be a free fish fry at the weigh-ins.

For more information, visit www.weisslakeimprovementassociation.org.

8/12/17 6:12 PM

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UNDER THE SEA

Speargun Basics

L

ike enthusiasts of any sport, if you stay with spearfishing long enough, you become intimately familiar with every detail of your equipment. Here’s an overview of what a newbie might want to know before buying that first speargun.

Most spearguns are powered by bands, normally between one and three bands. There are two main types. The American style is recognized by the wood stock and is durable, sturdy and easy to load. The Eurogun style has a tubular shaped barrel, rear handle, and a thinner shaft well suited for freediving and smaller fish.

In either case, spearguns are equipped with a trigger mechanism. The back end of the shaft engages into the trigger mechanism. Once the bands are loaded, the trigger is pulled and the shaft flies out due to the pulling load of the bands. You do not want to overload a gun by putting more bands than what it’s designed for as it could make the gun inaccurate or unsafe.

Most spearguns now include a reel. This is especially needed if freediving and/or spearing larger fish, so the gun is not yanked out of your hands. If spearing a very large fish such as a tuna, which could spool your line in a matter of seconds, a line and float are required so the diver can pull it in from the surface.

Shafts come in different lengths and diameters to match the gun, and spearos look for the perfect shaft—one that will not bend, not rust, fly straight in the water, and with a barb that will hold the fish securely. It’s wise to always carry a spare shaft or two on the boat, in case a shaft gets bent or lost.

Like shafts, the bands are also replaced periodically, and it’s a good idea to carry spares in case one breaks. When bands get old, they start to get crack lines, or the wishbones can begin to fray, so it’s best to replace them before one snaps.

There’s a wider variety of speargun brands than ever on the

market. These include: Wong, AB Biller, Riffe, Hammerhead, Cressi, SEAC, Mares, Rob Allen, Koah, Mako, JBL and more. If you want help selecting your first gun, see if you can find a mentor to help you select one that matches local conditions.

Dive shops that specialize in spearfishing can also help. These include Austin’s in Miami, Fla.; Freedivers in Palm Beach, Fla.; James & Josephs in San Diego, Cali.; Freedive Shop in Sacramento, Cali.; and others. There are also Sheri Daye descends with a Wong speargun. custom gun builders who will work with you directly, give you advice, and design a gun to your specs—such as Wong Spearguns from Hawaii or Sea Sniper from California.

Good luck and happy hunting!

Sheri is a world-record holder, host of Speargun Hunter, and producer of “The Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo” in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Follow “Sheri Daye” and “The Blue Wild” on Facebook and Instagram.

For more Sheri Daye, go to

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Outdoor Edge’s new Reel-Flex knives are crafted from German 4116 stainless steel that is known for its corrosion resistance and excellent edge retention. The blades provide a consistent medium flex during use and are taper ground to eliminate friction and promote an effortless cut. Available in 6-inch, 7.5-inch and 9.5-inch blade lengths, the Reel-Flex series was designed for all fresh and saltwater species.

The handles incorporate Jerry Hossom’s iconic tactical design and ergonomics with the safety and function fishermen need.

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• Weighs 86.4 lbs.

• 21" L x 10-1/8" H

37

29 PIECE TITANIUM DRILL BIT SET

BATTERY CHARGER ENGINE STARTER

SCHUMACHER ELECTRIC

20599

MODEL: 23522

SUPER COUPON

Customer Rating 2/10/50 AMP, 12 VOLT

COMPARE TO

$

LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

SUPER COUPON

SUPER COUPON

$2 99 9 $2999 9

COMPARE TO SHELTER LOGIC

ITEM 63054/62858 shown

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

Battle Tested

$9 99 9 $12999

Customer Rating ITEM 69780 41005 shown

60%

LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

NOW

SUPER COUPON

10 FT. x 20 FT. PORTABLE CAR CANOPY NOW

Customer Rating

99

SUPER COUPON

COMPARE TO

2599

NOW

Tools sold separately.

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

Customer Rating 16"

$

Customer Rating

$5 99 9 $7999

LIMIT 1 coupon per customer per day. Save 20% on any 1 item purchased. *Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or any of the following items or brands: Inside Track Club membership, Extended Service Plan, gift card, open box item, 3 day Parking Lot Sale item, compressors, floor jacks, safes, saw mills, storage cabinets, chests or carts, trailers, trenchers, welders, Admiral, Ames, Bauer, Cobra, CoverPro, Daytona, Earthquake, Fischer, Hercules, Icon, Jupiter, Lynxx, Poulan, Predator, Tailgator, Viking, Vulcan, Zurich. Not valid on prior purchases. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/1/18.

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

60" HARDWOOD WORKBENCH WITH 4 DRAWERS

RAPID PUMP® 1.5 TON ALUMINUM RACING JACK

SAVE $40

44

MODEL: 74410

SUPER COUPON

Customer Rating

MODEL: 887400

SAVE $106

• Height range: COMPARE TO 12-1/2" to 24" REESE SAVE $ 99

LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

SUPER COUPON

PROELITE

ANY SINGLE ITEM

5

$ 99

SUPER COUPON

$1 7

9999

COMPARE TO

ITEM 63358 63925/63363 shown

99

179

COMPARE TO

SAVE $394

95

• 12" x 12" • Non-Abrasive

1000 LB. CAPACITY SWING-BACK TRAILER JACK NOW

• Adjustable spray nozzle

99

MICROFIBER CLEANING CLOTHS PACK OF 4

SUPER COUPON

1/2" COMPOSITE PRO 1750 PSI ELECTRIC EXTREME TORQUE PRESSURE WASHER AIR IMPACT WRENCH • 1.3 GPM

NOW

ANY PURCHASE

WITH

LIMIT 1 - Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or prior purchase.

Coupon good at our stores, HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567.

Offer good while supplies last. Shipping & Handling charges may apply if not picked up in-store. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented.

Valid through 6/1/18. Limit one FREE GIFT coupon per customer per day.

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

SUPER COUPON

• Weighs 4.4 lbs.

1,999

MODEL: EM4000SX

ITEM 69676/69729/63080/63079 shown ITEM 69728/63090/63089, CALIFORNIA ONLY

LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

TORQUE 1190 FT. LBS. BOLT BREAKAWAY

$

FREE

9

33999

20% OFF

SUPER COUPON

TYPE SAE

42304 shown

ITEM 69043/63282/42304

METRIC 42305/69044/63171 LIFETIME WARRANTY

COMPARE TO

HUSKY

$

1797

MODEL: HCW10PCSAE

SAVE 66%

Customer Rating

LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 6/1/18*

I

FEBRUARY 2018

I

NATIONAL

25

At Harbor Freight Tools, the “Compare to” price means that the specified comparison, which is an item with the same or similar function, was advertised for sale at or above the “Compare to” price by another national retailer in the U.S. within the past 90 days. Prices advertised by others may vary by location. No other meaning of “Compare to” should be implied. For more information, go to HarborFreight.com or see store associate.

1/17/18 1/3/18 5:07 2:12 PM

SUZUKI MAKES IT EASY AS

1-2-3

1.

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

2.

SEL

These are limited time offers.

See your participating Suzuki Marine dealer for all the details or visit www.suzukimarine.com.

N SO S NG ARD AVI TBO T S I OU TANUZUK INSECT S

Instant Savings of up to $800 on select models.

See your dealer for details.

3.

Rates as low as 5.99% on new Suzuki outboards (OAC).*

REPOWER FINANCE

Gimme Six Extended Protection promo is applicable to new Suzuki Outboard Motors from 25 to 350 HP in inventory which are sold and delivered to buyer between 01/01/18 and 03/31/18 in accordance with the promotion by a Participating Authorized Suzuki Marine dealer in the continental US and Alaska to a purchasing customer who resides in the continental US or Alaska.

Customer should expect to receive an acknowledgement letter and full copy of contract including terms, conditions and wallet card from Suzuki Extended Protection within 90 days of purchase.

If an acknowledgement letter is not received in time period stated, contact Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. – Marine Marketing via email: marinepromo@suz.com. The Gimme Six Promotion is available for pleasure use only, and is not redeemable for cash. Instant Savings apply to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki Outboard Motors made between 01/01/18 and 03/31/18. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine.com. Customer and participating Dealer must fill out the appropriate form at time of sale. Instant Savings will be applied against the original dealer invoice (Suzuki will credit Dealer parts account). There are no model substitutions, benefit substitutions, rain checks, or extensions. Suzuki reserves the right to change or cancel these promotions at any time without notice or obligation. * Financing offers available through Synchrony Retail Finance. As low as 5.99% APR financing for 60 months on new and unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors. Subject to credit approval. Not all buyers will qualify. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. $19.99/month per $1,000 financed for 60 months is based on 5.99% APR. Hypothetical figures used in calculation; your actual monthly payment may differ based on financing terms, credit tier qualification, accessories or other factors such as down payment and fees. Offer effective on new, unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors purchased from a participating authorized Suzuki dealer between 01/01/18 and 03/31/18. “Gimme Six”, the Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2018 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.

26

NATIONAL

I

CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 26 SZ_Q1Promo_1PG_WIP.indd 1

FEBRUARY 2018

I

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

1/17/18 5:07 PM 12/8/17 2:46 PM

COMMON CVRS_0218.indd 3

1/17/18 1:13 PM

Where do you want to be?

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800.828.4244 ¡ visithendersonvillenc.org Call for your complimentary Getaway Guide

COMMON CVRS_0218.indd 4

1/17/18 1:13 PM