The Angler Video Magazine | December 2023 Edition

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COOLERS, the leader in high-performance soft-sided coolers, is hitting the

water this year with new, upgraded fishing products. Our fishing team partners told us what they needed, and we listened!

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DITCH THE FAMILY AND

GO FISHING FOR CHRISTMAS!

W

ith the time off work this holiday season, maybe you owe it to yourself to ditch familial obligations and go fishing. Yep. We just said it. And, no, we will not be held responsible for repercussions on those who heed our advice.

But think about it. Christmas parties, hunting seasons and chilly weather will keep most would-be anglers off the water. Many guides and charters are offering discounted rates, not because the fishing is bad, but because the anglers are trapped in the hubbub of the tinsel-strewn season. Yes, many of the reservoirs in our northern states may be locked in ice, and many of the fish in our southern fisheries, both inshore and freshwater, will be slowing down with cooler water temperatures. But wintertime offers some of the best fishing of the year in many locales. The following are a few ideas to help combat cabin fever.

On the Eastern Seaboard, anglers will have eyes peeled for diving birds that indicate blitzing schools of wintertime striped bass. These fish range from Maine down into the Carolinas on their annual migrations, and in December

By TAM Staff

and January they show up in North Carolina averaging about 20 pounds. With long rods in the truck, surf anglers will be cruising N.C. 12 up and down the Outer Banks to keep up with striped bass herding and crashing menhaden on the surface.

And at places like Oregon Inlet, N.C., charter boats do a brisk wintertime business trolling for these same fish while maintaining a lookout for feeding frenzies.

Staying with stripers, the landlocked version of these bait marauders will be relishing the cooler temperatures in Georgia’s warm-water reservoirs like Lanier, Clarks Hill and Hartwell. By December they will be shallow, feeding on schools of

shad and blueback herring. Wintertime is the best time to have a 30-plus-pound striper crush a big trout slow trolled behind a planer board. With the exception of maybe muskie, there is no more violent a strike to be found in freshwater.

Other great winter freshwater options found across the Northeast and Southeast are delayed harvest (DH) trout waters. These specially regulated fisheries are stocked heavily with trout and are catch-and-release only through the winter. With single-hook, artificial-only regulations and a tendency for the states to stock larger-than-average trout, this creates a

fantastic opportunity for fly fishermen in the dead of winter. Maryland, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia are some of the states with excellent delayed harvest programs. See their state wildlife agency websites for information.

On the Gulf Coast, some days can be chilly out on the Gulf of Mexico. But the fishing can be spectacular. Inshore, especially in Texas, the largest seatrout of the year will be caught by anglers with the patience to fish slowly and methodically. And offshore, around the oil rigs across the northern Gulf, blackfin and yellowfin tuna, cobia, kingfish and grouper will all be biting.

But if you want to catch fish in the

warm sun, there may be no better wintertime option in the Continental United States than the sailfish bite on Florida’s South Atlantic Coast. Sailfish Alley, from Fort Pierce down through the Keys, peaks in December and January as 7-foot-long sails migrate south often in sight of shore. Anglers can experience banner days with dozens of releases when the bite is on.

So put down your eggnog, pick up the phone and book a trip. Let Santa take care of the kiddies, and go find the wintertime adventure of a lifetime.

Just be sure to bring back a gift or two to ease the wrath if they allow you to return home.

WATCH

I

ANGLERS GET TWO MONTHS FOR GULF AJ

t will be another short season for amberjack in the Gulf of Mexico next year. The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council decided in late October to modify both the recreational season and commercial trip limits for greater amberjack. The result for recreational anglers is a two-month fall season, which is expected to close a few days early based on projections.

The council chose to modify the recreational season so it opens on Sept. 1 and remains open through Oct. 31, unless the annual catch target 8

VIDEO

DECEMBER 2023

is projected to be met earlier. The projected date for reaching that annual catch target is Oct. 26.

The council also chose to reduce the commercial trip limit to seven fish, which is equivalent to about 210 pounds gutted weight.

This framework action will be transmitted to the Secretary of Commerce for approval and implementation as soon as practicable.

In anticipation that this rule may not be implemented before the beginning of the 2024 commercial fishing season, the Council requested that NOAA Fisheries implement an

THE ANGLER VIDEO MAGAZINE

emergency rule to reduce the commercial trip limit to seven fish at the start of the year. Since Amendment 54 reduced catch limits by about 83 percent, and the 2023 commercial annual catch limit was exceeded, a payback provision will reduce the 2024 commercial annual catch target to 56,661 pounds whole weight.

Under the current 1,000-pound trip limit, the commercial fishing season is expected to be incredibly short.

For more information, visit gulfcouncil.org.

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GOT PINFISH?

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Tim Barefoot

ue to the recent gag grouper closures, we’re fishing for scamp and red grouper only, and not the gags we would normally target this time of year. This closure, which is based on information that even NOAA has admitted is inaccurate, is a big hit to the nearshore/offshore bottom fishing community. We live for the fall and winter season. It’s the apex of our year, with the week of Christmas often being the best bite of the year.

This is when the biggest mutton and red snapper roll back down the edge, along with big gags, scamps and reds. These are all the fish I like the most. They all stage in prime places around structure and bait in the 10- to 40-mile range, depending on the water temps and where you fish.

Bait is the key ingredient. I’m looking for structure that holds bait.

There are a lot of places giant stacks of bait will be on slick, flat, sand bottom with no structure at all, and snapper and grouper will be on the bottom below these big bait balls. I can’t stress this enough; the bait is key. I’ve said it many times before, but in the cold water, if you find the bait, you find the fish. Kings, tuna, dolphin and wahoo are

all on this water temp break, and all the bottom fish are there as well.

All the things you can troll for will bite the light line, and all the fish you want to catch on the bottom are chewing it up directly below you. Some years there will be shortages, and some years there will be abundance. This is a time of plenty in 2023, regardless of the recent closures. I’ve heard from a lot of fishermen about huge numbers of gags this year and last. Reports of 20 to 50 gag grouper days are not uncommon when using the correct equipment, and I’ll stop there because you can’t keep them, anyway.

If we can only fish for scamp and red grouper, we’re going to want a good supply of pinfish. Pinfish are a preferred grouper bait, and especially a scamp bait, because they view pinfish as egg eaters. Grouper are more than happy to gobble up a pinfish for sustenance and also because they are protecting their babies.

Live cigs and sardines on the jig are the ultimate bomb, but when you fish a good-sized pinfish or small snapper on the jig, you eliminate the trash bites due to the size and fact that grunts, pinkies and small sea bass can’t put that live bait in their mouth. For more details on how to specifically target scamps and grouper in general, go to the website and my YouTube channel.

See more from Tim Barefoot at www.barefootcatsandtackle.com.

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By Capt. Quinlyn Haddon

inter fishing in the Florida Keys can be a bit of a doubleedged sword. This time of year can definitely be limited by the more frequent windy days, making it less than ideal for those prone to sea-sickness. However, some of our best fishing occurs very close to land this time of year, and you don’t have to go far to get into the heart of it.

Snapper are always a viable option on the reef, and targeting them also provides the opportunity to fill up the livewell with fresh ballyhoo.

Ballyhoo are abundant on the reef during the winter months, and they are a choice bait for the sailfish that push inshore to feast on them. With a well full of fresh baits, cruise the reef looking for signs of sailfish, or hookup a

spread and bump troll. Make sure to keep a wire rig handy for any wahoo that might pop up unexpectedly.

When looking for signs of sailfish to sightcast fish, you will be primarily looking for bait sprays and diving frigates. Unless you are fortunate enough to find yourself in tailing conditions, or you are up in the tower of the boat, you won’t be looking for the sailfish directly from deck-level.

Tailing conditions are produced with an east wind, where fish migrating against the Gulf Stream will surface and conserve energy by riding the wind current on the tops of the waves. They surface so much that their tails will stick up out of the water. With the right light, this can

make them extremely easy to see, and gives ample time to set up the perfect cast.

Many species will use this hack, including bluefin tuna, great white sharks and wahoo.

No matter what you’re fishing for, this rolling aquarium effect is a treat to experience.

If you happen to get out there on a sporty day, and the thought of rocking on anchor first thing in the morning makes your stomach turn, wahoo fishing might be a better option.

Trolling lures can be very productive for targeting wahoo, and reduces the rocking of the boat that causes seasickness. Utilizing deepdiving lures, planers and trolling sinkers, there are countless ways to set up an efficient wahoo spread that can be pulled at varying speeds.

Since wahoo like their baits moving quickly, high-speed trolling is a great way to target them

while lessening other species as bycatch.

Another great option for wahoo fishing is using live bait. This method is easily more exciting, and uses bait that can be acquired without dropping anchor. With wahoo rigs already set with wire leaders, and extra pre-rigged leaders on hand, head out to the wrecks to catch fresh bait. When targeting bigger baits like bonita, blue runners and goggle eyes for wahoo, use a heavier rod and reel, with the appropriately overpowered sabiki rig. Accounting for tangles, breakoffs and unwanted mackerel attention, make sure to have more than a few extra sabiki rigs on board. Affix a weight to the sabiki and drop it down to fill the well with blue runners, or troll the sabiki over schools of bonita, hooking them immediately to the wahoo rig and sending them back out.

Power drift or bump troll a spread of live baits with some weightless, flatlined on the surface, or even under a kite, and others at varying depths with a breakaway weight or downrigger.

Watching a hungry wahoo skyrocket on a surface bait provides all the adrenaline needed to knock any lingering seasickness out of you.

Wahoo are not only excellent tablefare, they are also one of the best fighting fish you can target. Being one of the fastest fish in the ocean, they will provide all the drag-screaming action you could ask for. Keep in mind that if your line goes slack, they might be swimming toward the boat. It is a wahoo until it’s not a wahoo, so keep reeling until you see the end of your line come up empty.

If you are one of the unfortunate anglers who keeps Dramamine in their tacklebox, remember to take it the night before your fishing trip, rather than the morning of. You do not want to sleep through the epic fishing this month has to offer.

Charter fishing in the Florida Keys is very busy during the winter, so please make sure to book your charter in advance so you don’t miss out! Sweet E’nuf Charters also offers fishing charter gift certificates for all the Santas out there with fishermen in the family.

Capt. Quinlyn Haddon, of Sweet E’nuf Charters, operates out of Marathon in the Florida Keys.

Check out her website at CaptainQuinlyn.com, her social @captainquinlyn or call (504) 920-6342.

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DECEMBER 2023

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JAN 10-12 2024 ORANGE COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER | WEST CONCOURSE | ORLANDO, FL

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urf Expo, the premier watersports and coastal lifestyle tradeshow, returns to the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando on Jan. 10-12, 2024, in the West Concourse with a broad selection of brands and a full event line up.

Over 700 exhibiting companies are expected to participate in the January show, including over 60 new exhibiting brands.

“Surf Expo continues to be the ‘go-to marketplace’ for buyers and brands to connect in person, discover new products and trends, and conduct business,” said Roy Turner, Emerald SVP and Surf Expo Show Director. “Our January show allows retailers to preview all the new styles and new introductions ranging from top surf brands, hardgoods, apparel, footwear, swimwear, boutique fashions and accessories, value-priced resort items, fishing and marine products, souvenirs, and coastal gifts.”

The show has also expanded its footprint with watersports and coastal retailers with its new Shoreline offering. This new floor area compliments neighboring product categories on the show floor – Surf, Skate, Paddle and Bluewater — by targeting business associated with recreation found along rivers and lakes. Shoreline will feature products related to day camping, portable power, inflatables, overland, wakeboard, SUP, and performance related clothing and footwear.

“From the trails to the lakes and beyond, Shoreline at Surf Expo supports the natural evolution of the waterman’s lifestyle with gear, apparel and accessories that will take them from coastal shoreline activities into camping, hiking, climbing and other recreational activities found along the rivers and lakes,” said Turner.

A wide range of exhibitors have signed up for the January 2024 show that

cater to the outdoor and fishing industries such as: Howler Bros., HUK, The Duck Co., Xtratuff, Keen, Guy Harvey, AFTCO, Fahalo, Columbia Sportswear, Teva, BAJIO Sunglasses, Chums, Dark Seas, Salty Crew, Fish Hippie, Mang and many more.

Surf Expo is also the market to find the next new. More than 60 new exhibiting brands have signed on including Finaddicts, Handy Beach Goods, Neso, Paddlesmash, Sun Drunk, American Hatmakers, Fate, K’Lani, Livin Hooked Headwear, ORB, Our Own Candle Company, Tres Bien, ShuBug, Patsy Kane, Great Coast – Woodcraft, Jodi Melissa, Little Miss Zoe, Conscious Step, Jack & Sage Co, Hardcore Apparel, Dip LLC, and more.

Surf Expo January will feature a full schedule of events including industry networking events, daily fashion shows, happy hours and learning labs. Special onsite events will include The East Coast Surfing Hall of Fame 2024 Induction Ceremony and the annual Florida Shape Off surfboard shaping competition.

To register, and for more information, visit surfexpo.com.

NO TELLING WHAT YOU'LL CATCH...

By Astrid deGruchy

atch reef fishing is the epitome of, “You never know what you’re going to catch.” These underwater gems are filled with all sorts of fish, and it makes them fun and exciting places to be an angler.

Patch reefs are small coral formations found in the shallower parts of the water. They were named for the patchy appearance when viewed from the surface and form wherever hard bottom exists in 10 to 25 feet of water. The rocky bottom, combined with ledges, coral heads and other growth provides the structure fish love.

Many of these areas are well-known here in the Keys, but if you’re up for some exploration you can find lesspressured patch reef especially when the water is clear and visibility is good. Just keep an eye out for rocky or live bottom. These areas are usually not too far from shore, so they’re easy to reach and perfect for angling action. All sorts of fish congregate around these patches.

The variety includes mutton snapper, mangrove snapper, yellowtail snapper, lane snapper, hogfish, black grouper, red grouper, gag grouper, porgy, cero mackerel, yellowjack and barracuda.

We fish a lighter setup on the patch reefs, and this makes for a blast. Our go-to is a PENN Authority 4500 reel with the PENN Carnage III rod. Live bait like pilchards or shrimp work like a charm. If catching live bait is a problem for you, just stop at a local tackle shop and grab some live shrimp, pinfish, or even some frozen ballyhoo. Keep it simple, and tie on a knocker rig or jig head.

Anchoring the boat in the right position to present baits around the reef is an important part of this style of fishing.

Dropping bait on the sandy areas near the reef allows you to fish the bottom without getting hung up. Chum can be a good idea, but don’t be so quick to put out the chum as soon as you get lined up.

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DECEMBER 2023

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I recommend breaking it out only if the fishing is tough.

Chum can attract some of the “trash fish” like blue runners, jacks and sharks. Also, make sure you’re up to date with the rules and regulations. There are so many species you might catch, and some of those species might be out of season.

Patch reef fishing is a blast. It’s a mix of stunning views and tons of action. If you want to experience this, the cooler months are the best for this type of fishing. That’s when some better-quality fish move into the shallower reefs.

22

DECEMBER 2023

Visit www.beansportfishing.com to book a charter and experience epic patch reef fishing in the Sportfishing Capital of the World.

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Y

ou don’t need an invitation to have fun in Upcountry South Carolina: Come kayak crys-tal blue lakes, hike to rushing waterfalls, dig into local cuisine, attend family oriented events and breathe fresh mountain air. But when you hold a South Carolina fishing license, it feels like an official ticket to enjoy the great outdoors.

Fish bite year-round in the lakes, rivers and streams of Upcountry South Carolina, which is located in the state’s northwest corner in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Devils Fork State Park in Salem is a great place to access Lake Jocassee, which holds state records for rainbow trout, brown trout, redeye bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass and yellow perch. Or try your luck at Lake Hartwell, at Lake Hartwell State Park in Fair Play and Sadlers Creek State Park in Anderson, three-time host of the Bassmaster Classic.

The Chattooga River boasts healthy wild trout populations and is also regularly stocked by Oconee County’s Walhalla State Fish Hatchery. The Whitewater River above Lower White-water Falls is another great option for wild trout. Lake Keowee, at Keowee-Toxaway State Park in Pickens County, swims with largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass, crappie, bluegill, yel-low perch, catfish, brown and rainbow trout.

Pick up everything you need—including advice— at local fly shops or book a guided fish-ing trip. Sam Jones, of Jocassee Charters, puts anglers on trophy trout. Buster Green’s Guide Ser-vice reels in stripers, hybrids and bass on Hartwell and Keowee. Chattooga

THE BEST PLACE TO DROP A FISHING LINE

River Fly Shop leads fly fishing trips on the Chattooga and Chauga rivers.

Even if you don’t fish, you can still get on the water. Jocassee Lake Tours offers tours of the lake and of Jocassee Gorges, which National Geographic called a “destination of a Lifetime.”

Some amazing spots can only be reached by boat. Several tours are offered, so you can learn from a naturalist while riding on a pontoon or paddle a kayak through coves and under waterfalls.

Prefer to captain your own boat? There are several rental companies, including Tri-County Boat Rental, on Keowee, Jocassee, Hartwell and other lakes.

If you’d rather be under the water, Jocassee is a world-renowned freshwater diving desti-nation that boasts visibility of more than 50 feet at depth. Lake Jocassee Dive Shop offers lessons and guided trips to see “The Wall,” where a section of mountain was blasted to build the dam, or a 40-foot swim-through wooden sailboat.

From fishing to boating, hiking to camping, biking to bird watching and more, the Up-country’s state parks are a great place to play. Dip into the swimming hole at Oconee State Park. Hike to the tops of Pinnacle and Table Rock mountains at Table Rock State Park.

Explore the 13,000-acre Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area at Caesars Head State Park. Or create your own adventure at any of the Upcountry’s 13 state parks.

Visit UpcountrySC.com to learn more.

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ENGINEERED TO HANDLE THE STRONGEST OUTBOARD ENGINES ON THE MARKET Today’s engine manufacturers are building engines that are more powerful and heavier than ever before. Dometic’s new Mega Jackplate has been developed to withstand the power of high performance engines and provide boaters with the ability to maximize the output of their engines while offering more flexibility in shallow water. The Mega Jackplate is rated to 600 HP and is an extension of our existing product line. It will be offered in 6”, 8” and 10” setbacks. There will be 2 versions available, a standard bolt pattern designed to fit engines like Yamaha XTO and a wide bolt pattern designed to fit Merc 500/600.

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JACKED UP! The Benefits of Precision Outboard Height Adjustment

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lectro-hydraulic jack plates give owners of outboard-powered fishing boats a couple of key performance advantages. For one, installing a jack plate on an outboard boat provides some setback between the motor and the transom. This allows the propeller to operate in less turbulent water, and can help increase performance and reduce cavitation, which occurs when the prop is spinning in aerated water and begins to “break loose.”

The second and perhaps more important advantage is the ability to precisely adjust the height of the motor on the transom with the touch of a button—independent of the outboard’s trim angle. You’re most likely to find jack plates installed on freshwater bass boats, bay boats, hybrid bay/offshore boats, flats skiffs and tunnel hulls. In these applications, adjusting the engine

can help a boat’s “hole shot,” which is when you punch it from standing still to get the boat up onto plane. What you don’t want — especially in shallow water — is for the boat to rise too much in the bow and squat in the rear as it climbs out of “the hole.” Finding just the right motor height to provide the propeller with the ideal combination of grip and slip can push the boat quickly onto plane. This is important, as too much bite will make the boat bog down, and too much slip will cause the propeller to break loose and lose thrust.

Another benefit of electro-hydraulic jack plates is the ability to run a boat in shallower water. This holds true whether you’re on plane jetting across a flat or inching a large center console up onto a shelf to throw a castnet.

Dometic’s newest entry into the jack plate market is its new Mega Plate. This electro-hydraulic system is engineered specifically for today’s breed of large, hi-horsepower outboard motors. In fact, Mega Plate is designed for use with motors ranging from 400HP all the way up to the new V-12 600HP outboard from Mercury. It is offered in 6-inch, 8-inch and 10-inch setbacks to accommodate a range of vessel types and installations. Mega Plate is offered in two versions — a standard bolt pattern for Yamaha XTO and Mercury 450R engines, and a wide bold pattern for Mercury 500 and 600HP motors.

Dometic’s built-in Smartstick Linear Position Sensor and ability to integrate with Dometic Digital Switching technology compatible with all HTML5 capable MFDs give boaters complete control of multiple engine height positions with the touch of a finger.

To learn more about premium quality jack plates from Dometic Marine, visit www.dometic.com.

THE ANGLER VIDEO MAGAZINE

DECEMBER 2023

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SIZE OR COLOR: WHICH WOULD YOU CHANGE FIRST?

By Capt. Michael Okruhlik

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hange is inevitable. In all aspects of life, change is necessary. This is especially true for anglers. When things are not going right, we immediately think of the next lure to throw. We all embark on our fishing journeys with a plan before hitting the water.

We may base it on predicted conditions, time of year, experience, or possibly, but hopefully not, a social media post. Let’s discuss what I would do when plan-A doesn’t produce as envisioned.

Imagine we are in the perfect looking spot, conditions are exactly as planned, active bait is visible in the area, the tide is flowing, but nothing is biting. Most of us would make a change, and I think we are all in agreement

lure they used, and when we walk into the tackle aisle there are significantly more colors than lure choices or sizes. We are bombarded with so many colors. Color must be the key to catching, right? Well, maybe not, most of the time.

I’ll use my lure brand for an example. I produce 34 unique colors, but I only produce three different sized paddletails. Having all these color options at our fingertips can be overwhelming, and hearing others focus on the color that landed the big one has caused fishermen to focus on color first.

I have found more success in changing the size of the lure over the color. The fish are typically not feeding on anything that

resembles the color we are throwing, but they are feeding on a specific size that we have in our box. Matching the forage size is the better option. If that doesn’t produce a bite, then I will even switch the style of lure before the color in most situations.

Ultra-clear water is an exception, and these conditions play by different rules. We can cover that in another article, but until then focus less on color and more on size and action. Take a kid fishing and enjoy the outdoors.

Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures®, and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF KNOCKIN TAIL LURES®.

that our first correction would not be to move with everything looking right. Now, here is where I feel most people will make a mistake. Let’s say we are throwing soft-plastic paddletails. What is the first thing you would change?

I bet you said color. Am I right?

During my decades of fishing the salty bays and marsh, I’ve found that color is the last thing I should change. If some bass fishermen are reading this article, I am solely basing this theory on saltwater for trout, redfish and flounder.

It’s not your fault that you tend to change color first. Let’s face it, color is the first thing someone mentions when they describe the

SAT2NAV UNPARALLELED IN THE INDUSTRY. SERIOUSLY!

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MORE FISH, LESS FUEL!

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ince 2004, Hilton’s has helped serious offshore anglers catch more fish while burning less gas. This is the company that pioneered online satellite fish forecasting with timely updated charts that display all of the pertinent fishfinding information at a reasonable cost for the best anglers in the world.

This year, Hilton’s pushed the industry forward again with its SAT2NAV system. In a quantum leap ahead of any other service in the industry, Hilton’s has brought its unparalleled charts where they belong… to your boat’s chart plotter screen!

Gone are the days when a separate smart device was required to navigate on charts downloaded while in cell phone range. SAT2NAV allows you to surf Hilton’s online mapping portal, select desired charts and then navigate on them—all on the water and all from the multifunction display in your cockpit.

Nobody in the industry can do what Hilton’s is doing with SAT2NAV. SAT2NAV is an external device that connects to the monitors of your Garmin, Raymarine or Furuno multifunction displays. It has its own WIFI and GPS antennas and brings access to Hilton’s charts to the monitors at your helm. It is now possible view your vessel’s position relative to temperature breaks, color changes, high-res bathymetry, altimetry, etc. on your multifunction display.

With split-screen, all of this powerful imagery can be displayed alongside sonar, radar or other desired information.

With SAT2NAV, it’s never been easier to identify and navigate to ocean features where bait and gamefish congregate. You can do your homework on the charts at home, but sometimes it’s necessary to call an audible on the water. With Hilton’s charts clearly visible on your monitor, you can find those good currents, minute temperature changes, sea-surface upwellings, color breaks and navigate to them. Perhaps more importantly, you can eliminate dead water, which makes you a much more efficient and effective angler.

Of course, all of this comes with Hilton’s unrivaled service.

Their philosophy, reputation and longevity in the industry rely on the concept that if the information doesn’t help you catch fish, you won’t use it. So, they continually strive to provide the best up-to-date imagery, information and technology, and they’ll go above and beyond to make sure you know what you’re looking at and how to use it.

Hilton’s, again, is leading the industry.

With SAT2NAV they can do what no one else in the industry can do right now. At the same time, they are continually working to be better with additional eye-opening features that will further distinguish Hilton’s as the best in the fish forecasting industry. Stay tuned…

+1 713-530-2267 • HILTON@RT-NAV.COM

Delayed Harvest Trout

By Nick Carter

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delayed harvest trout stream is a better place than most to spend a winter afternoon, and if you can find a two- or threeday warming trend, there’s a good chance you’ll get into some pretty good fishing.

North Carolina’s Fires Creek has a 2-mile stretch of delayed harvest water on U.S. Forest Service land off U.S. 64 between Murphy and Hayesville. Rainbow, brown and brook trout are stocked in the creek and protected under catch-and-release, singlehook, artificial only regulations during the October into June delayed harvest season. It’s a small-stream setting with more and bigger trout than one would find in most creeks this size.

The creek is gorgeous, with clear plunge pools and deep bend runs sliding into skinny pocket water that twists for miles through the bottom of a rhododendron-choked valley. Even the rounded river rocks are notable for their beauty, with striking dark gray and tan bands that’ll make you want to stash a few flat stones in your vest to take home.

The fishing is about like any other delayed harvest in terms of fish size and the density of stockings, but it is a small stream, so you’ll be tempted to—and you should—explore your way upstream instead of settling in on the big holes. Small streams are just more fun when you fish them that way. Around each

AT FIRES CREEK, N.C.

bend lies a new challenge, another series of pools and runs.

Tightlining nymphs is probably the most effective way to fool fish this time of year.

They might fall for the standard “junk flies,” but a few months into the DH season, the fish might also be looking for something more natural. In winter, the aquatic insects will be small. Little black stoneflies, midges and blue-winged olives might hatch off on a warm afternoon and lead to some dry fly action, but

unless you see bugs in the air, you’re better off fishing subsurface imitations of these insects.

A double-nymph rig with a big attractor nymph below a smaller more natural looking nymph is always a good option.

The foot bridge at the Fires Creek Picnic Area is the lower boundary of the DH water.

Access above the foot bridge is easy on a streamside trail and also along Fires Creek Wildlife Road. This gravel track parallels the creek way up into its headwaters. The

delayed harvest ends at the Forest Service 340A bridge. Upstream of this point, the trout population trends toward stream-born rainbows that top out at 10 or 11 inches.

For GPS coordinates to access points and detailed maps of North Carolina and Georgia’s best trout water, check out “Flyfishers Guide to North Carolina & Georgia.” It is available at fly shops, on Amazon, and signed copies are available from the author by e-mailing nsc8957@gmail.com.

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troll up WINTERTIME

SLAB

By Nick Carter

CRAPPIE

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old water makes catching fish more difficult, right?

Not with crappie, according to all-around outdoorswoman Terrie Huffmaster. She looks forward to deep winter, when she can load the boat with the biggest slabs of the year. Huffmaster is a South Georgia farm girl from Quitman, way down on the Florida border, so she calls crappie speckled perch, or specks for short.

“You catch the bigger specks in wintertime,” she said. “I like to go into the deeper water trolling for them.”

A great thing about crappie is they’re predictable. In spring they move shallow to spawn, but throughout the rest of the year they are nomads in search of comfortable water temperatures. You’ll always find them near structure or cover, and they are usually schooled up tightly.

Huffmaster fishes for specks on Lake Seminole, a nearly 40,000-acre impoundment that straddles the Georgia/Florida border. It’s a relatively shallow lake, full of stumps, brush and submerged grass. When Huffmaster says “deeper water,” she means the deepest water Seminole has, which is 25 to 30 feet.

Trolling delivers both quality and quantity when water temps are in the mid to high 50s.

But Huffmaster isn’t looking for a 30-fish limit.

She’s hunting 10 or so giant specks in the 15- to 18-inch range. She catches a lot of smaller fish in the process, but she throws those back.

“When you get on ’em good, it’s crazy how many you can catch,” she said.

This is how she gets on them: Huffmaster

has a line she trolls that she’s identified on electronics and with previous success. It’s just outside a channel marker, where there’s a ton of submerged trees, stumps and other brush and debris to hold fish. She pulls jigs over deep water and up over humps and ledges that rise to as little as 5 feet.

“You keep that trolling motor on low,” she said, “just enough where your line’s pulling, where you’re barely trolling.”

Huffmaster said there’s no need to deploy huge spreads from a bank of rod holders. She fishes just one, maybe two rods at a time.

Her favorites are a lightweight Mr. Crappie Slab Shaker combo and a Lew’s 6-foot Ultra Light with a Lazer Light Speed Spin 75 reel. She spools up with 8-to 10-pound braided main line and uses a 4- or 6-pound fluorocarbon leader tied to a 1/16-ounce Crappie Magnet Fin Spin or a Mr. Crappie jig head. Paddletail and curly tail bodies both have their place. Chartreuse/pearl and pumpkin are good colors. She trolls her jigs 10 to 15 feet behind the boat and keeps any problem catching a a loose drag so the hook doesn’t tear out of a mess of them… and some big ones. crappie’s paper-thin mouth.

“Call me old fashioned, but that’s how we Search up Terrie B Huffmaster on Facebook and terries_dusk_2_dawn_fishing on Instagram. do it,” she said. “And we don’t seem to have THE ANGLER VIDEO MAGAZINE

DECEMBER 2023

39

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THE EASIEST-EVER SONAR SYSTEM FOR KAYAK ANGLERS WATCH

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VIDEO ransform any small boat, kayak or float tube into a high-spec sonar system within minutes using the Deeper gear combo. The Deeper PRO+ is a wireless fish finder, roughly the size of a tennis ball, connecting to your phone via its own Wi-Fi signal, scanning down to 260 ft. With a reliable 6-hour battery, built-in GPS, and two beam scanning frequencies, it delivers accurate, trustworthy readings.

Waterproof and capable of handling temperatures as low as -4°F, it’s a versatile fishfinder suitable for various fishing types.

For kayak fishing, it seamlessly pairs with the Deeper Flex Arm 2.0. Crafted from highstrength materials, the Flex Arm with G-clamp suits a wide range of vessels, offering easy installation and mounting without the need

for drilling or tools. Use Deeper to map out waters, understand bottom structures, water temperature and depth, and locate fish holding spots faster. Enjoy a successful day on the water with Deeper.

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FOR ANGLERS FITEC MAKES HIGH-QUALITY WATCH CAST NETS FOR EVERY ANGLER VIDEO

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rusted for 40 years, Fitec provides the finest cast nets on the market. This has made them the largest manufacturer of cast nets in the country, and quality products combined with the best customer service earns them the No. 1 ranking in the industry year after year.

Good live bait is essential to fishing. Cast nets that perform flawlessly throw after throw and stand up to the abuse that anglers deal out make catching bait easier and more efficient. This is the simple idea that drives Fitec to continue providing wellbuilt nets to a loyal following of anglers who know they are getting a top-quality product at a fair price.

Fitec has a wide range of high-quality nets to suit the needs of every thrower, from first-timers to professional fishermen. From the Ultra Spreader GS models designed to generate maximum spread and the fastest sink rate for experienced throwers to the

EZ Throw series with an EZ Accu-Throw ring to assist beginners in throwing pancakes, Fitec’s innovative product line will help anyone catch bait. Even kayak anglers can get in on the action with the RS series, which are lightweight nets designed for use in shallow water.

FITEC’s mission is to create innovative and quality products that are inspired by a drive and passion for the sport of fishing. Every detail of their products are created with you in mind.

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Weiging just 30 pounds, the portable and versatile DF 2.5HP outboard motor is the lightest Suzuki 4-stroke motor ever built. This smooth and quiet engine is water-cooled for increased dependability, features a digital CDI, and its anti corrosion system ensures the aluminum propeller stays durable in marine conditions. Steering and throttle tension and control are easily adjustable. Simple steering action for maneuvering in tight quarters. Easy-togrip carrying handle conveniently tilts the motor up when needed. Meets the rigorous EPA 2010 and CARB 3-Star Ultra-Low emissions standards.

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GIFTS FOR ANGLERS AO COOLERS: HARD-CORE VIDEO GEAR FOR HIGH-OCTANE SOULS WATCH

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O Coolers, the leader in high-performance softsided coolers, is hitting the water this year with new, upgraded fishing products. AO’s fishing team partners told them what they needed, and they delivered!

Products are in stock and ready to ship: The Fishing Cooler Backpack, 2, 4 & 6ft Fish bags, Fillet bags, Boat fenders, EVA Traction pads, Inflatable Docks, ISUPs, and of course, high-performance coolers specifically designed for use on boats, guaranteed not to leak, and to keep ice cold for up to 24 hours.

Thirty years ago, AO was launched to provide active, hard-core people with quality products at a reasonable price. They started selling soft-sided coolers to the hard-core, go-fast boaters and fishermen in Lake Havasu. They aimed to keep ice in their coolers for up to 24 hours in 120-degree Havasu heat.

That goal was accomplished 30 years ago, and they’re still at it.

AO knows its customers; they fish and

boat in the summer and ride the dunes or trails in the winter. AO products give high-octane souls greater freedom to embark on and enjoy what’s important to them.

Make sure that your gear does not hold you back from doing what you love. AO products are built to handle whatever offshore adventure is coming next. AO is flexibly rugged, seriously fun and honestly real! They’re looking for active, adventurous folks who demand quality and performance from their gear.

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BERKLEY SALTWATER HARDBAITS

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utcast, outlast and outfish all other hardbaits with Berkley’s first-ever collection of saltwater-specific hardbaits.

Built to thrive in the harshest elements, Berkley packed 85 years of innovation into these saltwater hardbaits. Now, you can fish the entire water column with confidence: these baits are scientifically developed to withstand the toothiest strikes and biggest fights.

Durable in design and crisp in action, the new hardbait shapes have been designed to mimic naturally occurring forage, all built for battle with virtually bombproof bodies and hardware, featuring ultra-sharp, anti-rust Fusion19TM 3X Hooks for ultimate endurance.

Berkley’s all-new saltwater series of hardbaits have earned their stripes smashing fish in lakes and rivers, super-tuned by Berkley scientists

to conquer the salt and its fiercest inhabitants.

Action, vibration, casting distance, hook-up ratios—every aspect has been optimized to your advantage.

Whether you fish the flats or troll the tides, Berkley’s collection of versatile saltwater hardbaits are effective on most every type of inshore and nearshore species. Equipped to handle the challenges of fishing tough gamefish in corrosive environments, these new saltwater hardbaits deliver repeatable, strikeinducing action every time.

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DOMETIC OPTIMUS 3000 SERIES ELECTRIC STEERING

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ometic expands its inboard electric steering solution with its new Dometic Optimus 3000 Electric Steering System, specifically designed to meet the load capacity and handling needs of many styles of inboard boats up to 40-feet in length.

Dometic is taking even further step into electrification of marine steering system and introduced the new Optimus 3000 Series Electric Steering System for single and twinrudder inboard powered vessels, bringing faster steering response, precision control and exclusive steering intelligence to single- and dual-rudder inboard powered vessels.

This innovative 12V steering solution can be used with inboard yachts, cabin cruisers, catamarans and sportfishing yachts, providing electric alternative for broader range of boats.

It is also an ideal solution for today’s evolving new breed of electric propulsion vessels, due to addressing sustainability in its design and manufacture.

Based on Dometic’s proven and reliable electric power steering technology, the Dometic Optimus 3000 Series delivers a wide range

of features including effortless, smooth steering at all speeds, zero free play at the helm, instant steering response and a predictable steering feel that is the same from port to starboard.

Dometic’s electric steering actuator and helm work together to provide steering comfort and a confident feeling of control during all types of boating activities. The stateof-the-art electronic helm can automatically adjust wheel turns and steering effort based on vessel speed. The number of turns lockto-lock varies from 3.5 to 8.5 based on speed and application. Steering parameters can also be set by the installer to match user preference and vessel handling characteristics, using the simple color LCD CANtrak display.

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Installation has been simplified with only four components making up the system: the electronic actuator, CANtrak display, wiring

harness and the electronic helm. It can easily be adapted for single helm vessels or inboard boats with up to three helm stations — making it practical for a wide variety of uses both recreational and professional.

The Dometic Optimus 3000 Series can also be easily networked with other compatible vessel components, such as a third-party autopilots.

A breakthrough in the realm of marine products, this steering system excels in electrification and sustainability, featuring a fluid-free design, low power consumption as well as less total weight with a commitment to environmental responsibility that leads the industry.

THE ANGLER VIDEO MAGAZINE

DOMETIC.COM DECEMBER 2023

47

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CATCH FRENZIED SPANISH MACKEREL

Behind Bluefish

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panish mackerel are a year-round target, but this time of year they love following bluefish schools to clean up injured baitfish left behind. During this time, bluefish and mackerel all tend to school together into a feeding frenzy of terror. I definitely wouldn’t want to get my hand in the way of any of those toothy fish.

Spanish mackerel are sometimes confused with baby kingfish and cero mackerel, since they can school all together. However, there are a few ways to differentiate these fish, which is important since they all have different regulations. All these mackerel have yellow spots on their sides, but there are a few differences to look for. Cero mackerel have yellow lines along their lateral line that are combined with the yellow spots. King mackerel tend to have smaller spots that are closely grouped along the lateral line. As for the Spanish mackerel, they have large uncontrolled spots. There is simply no rhyme or reason for their pattern. Another way to

identify Spanish mackerel is they usually have a wider girth compared to the other mackerel.

A large Spanish mackerel is considered to be around 24 inches and over 5 pounds, while kingfish are typically over 20 pounds and ceros tend to be smaller.

Spanish mackerel are typically nearshore fish that hang close to shore in order to feed on bait schools by pushing them into the breakers.

In certain locations, you can find Spanish inside the intracoastal. In specific conditions, if the water becomes too warm, mackerel move deeper to find their preferred 70 degrees.

Spanish mackerel are found off the Atlantic coast of the United States and in the Gulf of Mexico. They follow a migration pattern of spending the winter off Florida and then move north to North Carolina in early April and all the way up off the coast of New York by June.

There are many ways to target Spanish mackerel. Some use live bait such as sardines, baby pilchards and smaller threadfins. A simple freeline with a short wire leader to a live

By Emily Hanzlik bait hook and one of these smaller baitfish can be deadly. The wire is not absolutely necessary, but mackerel do have extremely sharp teeth.

When mackerel are tailing bluefish schools, they are normally frenzied. They’ll slash at everything that comes their way. I like throwing crappie jigs into the frenzy, and I think any kind of small jig will work. A lot of commercial anglers use popping corks with a spoon tied about 4 feet below. The pop gets their attention, and then the shiny fluttering spoon is too much for them to resist.

For larger Spanish mackerel, X-raps or other diving crankbaits work best since they imitate larger baits. If you’re throwing a lure, don’t use your favorite one. There is a good chance you might lose it.

Emily Rose Hanzlik holds 62 IGFA world records in various categories. Find her on social media @emilyhanzlikoutdoors.

THE ANGLER VIDEO MAGAZINE

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TIPS FROM A PRO

FIND THE FEEDING FISH

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TYLER WOOLCOTT

here are many things I look for when in search of a happy group of feeding fish, some you can see with the naked eye while others are only visible with electronics.

Toward the end of the year, especially in the Southern states, bass will be chasing baitfish and grouping up in huge schools.

This can lead to an amazing day on the water if you can put yourself in the right area where the feed is happening. Because the spawn is around the corner, these fish will absolutely gorge themselves and get very competitive, and it leads to an awesome opportunity to go catching.

Locating bait is the first step. Depending on the body of water you are at, you can usually spot fish feeding activity fairly easily with the naked eye. Whether you see the baitfish flicking on the surface, bass blowing up in the distance, or sometimes even birds

diving and feeding, life typically attracts life. These things are a tell-tale sign that you are in the right area.

I also try to locate feeding activity with the different forms of sonar on the boat.

Sometimes there could be unbelievable feeding going on, but you’d never know it with the naked eye because it’s all under the surface. Deciphering this kind of activity on a screen takes a lot of practice, but when you figure it out it can lead to an incredible day because not everyone will be able to find these fish.

Often you can mark bait and bass on traditional sonar under the boat to pinpoint a general area where there is life. I like to use my forward sonar to look around sections of the lake. Whether it be in the backs of pockets, on main-lake points, or even over some of

the deepest water in the lake, you never know where they could be. I use my forward sonar to cover a bunch of water and pan back and forth through areas to see if there is the frenzy I am looking for.

Learning the sonar part of fishing can be difficult, but if you spend time behind the screen learning what is you are looking at, it provides awesome understanding of how fish operate. Some days, I spend hours just looking around without casting or catching anything.

I’m just searching for that magical spot. Some days, you drop the boat in the water and they start blowing up on the surface, and that’s always fun, too.

Don’t get too mixed up on lures and things. When you find the feed, you will have a heck of a day if you throw something that looks like a baitfish into the school. Feel free to reach out on social media with any sonar questions.

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

WATCH

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DECEMBER 2023

THE ANGLER VIDEO MAGAZINE

VIDEO

don't stop reeLing Alex Kendrick reel salty www.reelsaltydestin.com

season and is only going to get better. Trolling lures 10-15 knots is ideal starting around the 90’ mark. Keep an eye out for weed lines and large patches of grass, you never know what’s below them. Whenever I see grass patches I like to stop and sight fish for Mahi, Tuna, Wahoo, and Triple tail.

For Mahi I like to keep a light pitch rod with 20# fluorocarbon and 2/0 Owner circle hook. Live bait works really well on the larger bulls and cut squid works better on the smaller chicken dolphins. If lures are your thing I prefer Yozuri Crystal Minnows and honestly color doesn’t matter. Pitch around the weed lines or patches and look deeper down for the bigger Mahi. As for Tuna with all the chumming going on, I like to send down a vertical jig on 60#-80# test at least 100’ below the boat. Working your jig through the water column is a good way to fire up any kind of fish that may be lurking around in the shadows. If you have a large diamond jig I’d put some heavy wire in front of it for a chance at a wahoo. Triple Tail are amazing fish on light tackle and I recommend 15#-20# fluorocarbon and #2 Owner hook. Live shrimp work really well along with small cuts of squid.

If bottom fishing is your go to joy Vermillion snappers, Groupers, and Rock salmon is my target. For Vermillion snappers I like using a 2-3 hook chicken rig mixed with cut squid and Boston mackerel. Let your weight sit right on the bottom and wait for those 2-3 light bites. Rock salmon and Groupers like to hide out in the rocks and caves, so a slip lead is what I like to use. Heavier leader line for Groupers and larger baits close to the bottom. Feel the bite and start cranking. The first 20’-30’ are the most important so DON’T STOP reeling.

When it comes to offshore fishing don’t give up. There’s a lot of trial and error. Figure out what works best for you and as always keep your lines out and keep them tight.

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INSHORE TOPWATER ACTION IN N

By TAM Staff

COSTA RICA

ames Like Los Sueños, Quepos and the Osa Peninsula ring out in our collective angler imaginings as the sportfishing destinations of fantasy. Reports filter back to the U.S. with stories of 50-sailfish days, multiple blue, black and striped marlin… billfish action that seems too good to be true on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.

Well, those reports are most likely true.

Costa Rica is one of the world’s best billfish destinations. But not everyone is into spending long days trolling offshore. For some anglers, casting a line or working a bait is as much a part of the fun as fighting a fish. That’s where Costa Rica’s exotic and astoundingly good inshore fisheries step in.

Year-round, just off the coast of Costa Rica, huge snook, big cubera snapper and giant roosterfish hunt the gorgeous beaches, rocks and reefs. Any number of species is subject to find the end of your line, but the chief target for anglers has to be the

roosterfish.

With its tall mohawk of a dorsal fin and multihued stripes, the roosterfish’s oddball appearance is enough of a reason to try and catch one. Its aggressive nature and powerful runs would make it a target for anglers even it wasn’t so beautiful.

Most places they are found, roosterfish are commonly known as denizens of the surf. In Costa Rica, they are in the surf and everywhere else. Midway down the spit of land that is Central America, Costa Rica is in the heart of the roosterfish range, which spans the Pacific from Peru to the Baja California Peninsula. The average fish caught probably weighs less than 20 pounds, but it takes one weighing 60 or 70 pounds to really raise eyebrows.

They are plentiful, big and powerful, and half the fun of catching them is fishing for them. Sure, the most consistent way to catch them is trolling or drifting live baits. But we’re talking about a fish that will cream a topwater lure.

There is not much in fishing more exciting than a topwater take, so

when it is possible one might as well take advantage of it.

With roosterfish, the preferred surface presentation is ripping a popper across the top with as much splashy commotion as possible. It’s not a finesse technique. When a fish homes in on the bait, it will chase, often hitting several times before it finds the hook.

It’s this kind of explosive action that makes Costa Rica worth the trip for inshore action alone. And of course there’s also all those marlin, sailfish and tuna.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FRANCISCO MEJIAS

In The Spread www.InTheSpread.com Video Driven Instruction

Subscribe Now To Learn Advanced Fishing Techniques Get 20% OFF Use Codee

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scotthawaii.com FAMILY RUN IN HAWAII FOR 90 YEARS

Hanapa‘a - Marlin

Fish flags tell the story!

Catch all 4 Hanap‘a “slippahs” from Scott Hawaii Hanapa‘a - Ono

Hanapa‘a - Ahi

Fish flags inspired by Sun Dot Marine Flags.

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Hanapa‘a - Mahi

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@fishflags

THE RACE TO RESCUE

CHIPOLA

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DECEMBER 2023

SHOAL BASS W

By Nick Carter

hen it comes to warm water species and fly fishing, shoal bass are about as fun as it gets. Worldwide, these pugnacious river bass are native to only one river system: The ApalachicolaChattahoochee-Flint River Basin, and the swift-water habitat they prefer was years ago reduced to tributaries and stretches between dams in Georgia, Alabama and Florida.

While Georgia claims the healthiest native, reproducing populations of the species in the Flint River and in pockets of the Chattahoochee River, the situation is a little more tenuous for Florida’s shoal bass. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), The 95-mile-long Chipola River is the last remaining waterbody in the state with a known naturally reproducing shoal bass population.

The species was dealt a massive blow in 2018, when Hurricane Michael ripped over the Panhandle and depleted more than 90 percent of the Chipola’s shoal bass population.

FWC stepped in to suspend harvest and possession of shoal bass in the Chipola River and its tributaries. Then they began hatching and releasing genetically pure shoal bass into the river. The effort appears to be working.

Over the last two years, 11,000 fingerling shoal bass have been stocked into the Chipola. In subsequent samplings, DNA analysis showed more than 60 percent of yearling fish sampled came from these stockings.

“The stockings over these past two years have certainly made an impact on the population; shoal bass that were stocked last year are already within the 9-10 inch range,” said FWC biologist Andy Strickland.

This is the first time genetically pure shoal bass have been successfully raised in an FWC hatchery, which is a big deal because genetic impurity is one of the largest threats shoal bass face. Across their native range, interbreeding with introduced non-native black bass species like Alabama bass and spotted bass has muddied the gene pool except in small pockets where genetically pure populations are isolated from interlopers.

“It is extremely encouraging not only to successfully spawn this species in a hatchery setting but also to document the significant contribution the hatchery-reared fingerlings have made to the existing shoal bass population in the Chipola River to date,” said Bob DeMauro, Hatchery Manager at FWC’s Blackwater Research and Development Center.

Biologists will continue to monitor the Chipola River shoal bass population and evaluate the contribution of these stocking efforts to the adult population in years to come.

To learn more about a great shoal bass fishery, see flyfishga.com.

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orty-nine reservoirs stretch across the Tennessee Valley like a string of pearls. And for those who love to fish, those lakes are just as valuable.

Whether it’s bass, crappie, walleye, or catfish, whether for sport, food, or just fun, you can find world-class lake fishing only hours away from any spot in the Tennessee Valley. From more than 11,000 miles of shoreline or while floating on more than 700,000 acres of water, residents and visitors will quickly learn why this area is considered one of the best fishing destinations in the U.S. and, some would say, the world.

Find Your Own Fishing Hole

Fishing from the shore can be restful and rewarding—and anyone can do it. All you need is a little intel about how to find a spot where the fish might be biting. Here are a few tips for successful shore fishing from the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency: • Fish are often swimming near the shore in the spring and fall. If you’re fishing from the shore in the heat of summer, do it in the evening or early morning—or even after dark.

• Fish near-unique features such as docks, logs, trees, rocks, or rocky areas; aquatic vegetation; or places where creeks enter the water.

• When fishing in moving water, look at the surface for boils and breaks—this means there is some underwater structure blocking the current, which could be the perfect hiding place for fish.

• Begin fishing (casting) close and parallel to the bank, then work your way outward (fan casting) toward deeper water.

• If you don’t get any bites, try switching baits. If this doesn’t work, move to another hole.

• Wear polarized sunglasses so you’ll be able to see fish as well as submerged objects more clearly. (Your eyes will also be protected from the tackle.)

If you love outdoor sports—boating, hunting, fishing—and the natural world, or if you just like to observe wildlife, build birdhouses, maintain a bird feeder or are just curious about the critters in your backyard, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is here to help enrich your outdoor experience. Visit us at www.tn.gov/twra/.

Big Patagonia Trout Adventure

In Rio Pico, Argentina

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he Rio Pico region of Chubut province, Argentina is known to a select and adventurous few as the best big trout country in all of Patagonia.

Comprised of an immense network of lakes and drainages flowing through the Andes of southwestern Argentina, these waters are spectacular, and they’re as far off the beaten path as it gets.

The diversity of the fishery is astounding. The area hosts an almost unbelievable quantity of waters in all shapes and sizes, and the region is known for trout that reach “unusual size” in

pristine water with very little fishing pressure.

“It was incredible. I was fishing dry flies up a little spring creek for trout as long as my leg,” said Greg Baugus, who visited the remote area with Hemispheres Unlimited, an agency specializing in fishing trips of a lifetime.

But spring creeks are not all Rio Pico has to offer. Rainbows, brookies and browns were introduced over a century ago and can be pursued with a wide variety of tackle and techniques. From large lakes and rivers to high-elevation trickles, anglers have the option to throw dry flies on delicate tippets, chuck 6-inch streamers on a heavy sink-tip line, or nymph any day of the week. It all boils down to personal preferences, and it’s all done within the gorgeous expanses and

dramatic backdrop of the Andes.

Some spots are numbers games, with consistent action for what in Patagonia amounts to smallish fish—fish that would be considered large almost anywhere else in the world. Most folks come down hunting bruisers, though, the photo fish, the monsters that stand out in truly amazing adventures.

Hemispheres Unlimited offers perfect trips for those seeking adventure. Their Rio Pico Trout Bum program pairs anglers with local guides who grew up on these drainages and know them like the backs of their hands.

It’s a unique, low-cost option

for anglers more interested in fishing than luxury lodging. There’s no mint on the pillow, for sure. Instead, the Hemispheres Unlimited team makes certain preparations are in place so you can make the most of your time pursuing the fish that brought you to Argentina in the first place.

Accommodations for the Trout Bum program are best described as authentic, in true, local, Patagonia style. Unless there is a specific need for backcountry camping, groups usually lodge at local hospedajes, either in town or out on one of the waters. Each spot has its own characteristics, advantages and style, and Hemispheres helps each group choose the best option for their desires. The program can be set up in a wide variety of styles, ranging from boat fishing every day of the trip to mixed trips with easier wading, all the way to more extreme hike-in and camp expeditions.

For more information on the Rio Pico Trout Bum program and everything else Hemispheres Unlimited offers, go to hemispheresunlimited.com.

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JORDAN LEE RETURNS TO B.A.S.S. ELITE SERIES

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wo-time Bassmaster Classic champion Jordan Lee is returning to the Bassmaster Elite Series in 2024. For the last five years, Lee has successfully fished with Major League Fishing and makes a return to the Elites via a Legend’s spot in the field, which opened when Larry Nixon announced his retirement.

In just five seasons competing in major B.A.S.S. events, Lee, of Cullman, Ala., amassed more than $1.1 million in earnings through wins in the 2017 and 2018 Bassmaster Classic and dominant performances in both the Elites and the St. Croix Bassmaster Opens, notching 21 Top 10s and 36 Top 30 finishes.

“It is great to welcome Jordan back home to the Bassmaster stage, where he built such a fantastic career spanning from college to the historic back-to-back Classic victories,” said Lisa Talmadge, tournament director for the Elite Series.

The former Auburn University angler, who was an early star in the Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, is ready to get back to the biggest stage in fishing.

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“This is really exciting,” Lee said. “I’m really looking forward to the challenge of being back on the Elites. I know, from a competition standpoint, there are a lot of young guys on the Elite Series that are young, hungry and eat, sleep and breathe this sport.

“When I started my career at B.A.S.S., I didn’t really know what was going to happen, but winning those Classics changed my life. To this day that’s what people know me from. I still have people bring it up and talk about it pretty consistently.”

The storied Classic stage is also a big part of the reason Lee felt coming back to B.A.S.S. was the best thing for his career.

“The two Classic wins are what most people still remember me for even to this day,” he said.

“Those two wins were definitely the highlight of my career. The atmosphere of the Bassmaster Classic is unreal, and I don’t think anyone can argue what the Classic means to the sport of bass fishing and what it can do for an angler’s career.

“If I’m able to get back to the Classic, I know

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it’s going to put a huge smile on my face seeing all the fans, my family and just being back on the big stage. That’s what everyone dreams about, and I’m hoping I can get back there.”

Another driving factor that made the five-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier desire a return to B.A.S.S. was the unconditional fan support that he’s felt from Bassmaster fans.

“I’m really looking forward to getting back to the B.A.S.S. fans,” said Lee. “I’ve always been appreciative of the fans. Honestly, the fans are what keep you going when things get tough. I don’t take it for granted at all.”

Anglers earn one Legends point for each Bassmaster Classic victory and one point for each Progressive Insurance Bassmaster Angler of the Year title. According to Elite Series rules, up to two Legends qualifiers can be added to the Elite field size per season. When compared with the other anglers who inquired about a Legends exemption, Lee had the most points based on his two Bassmaster Classic titles. No spots are being cut from the 2024 Elite field to make room for Legends qualifiers.

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DECEMBER 2023

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BAR FIGHTING in Venice, Louisiana

By Capt. Owen Langridge

H

ave you ever been in a bar fight? I’m not talking about the fake western movie fight with broken whiskey bottles and chairs. I’m talking about a real, knockdown, drag-out bar fight with just you and your opponent, no holds barred.

Well, if you’re looking for a real bar fight, come on down to Venice, La. We have plenty of bars down here… sandbars, that is. And on these sandbars there’s a bunch of bull reds with 68

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chips on their shoulders. They’re just looking for a fight.

The fight isn’t over until someone cries “uncle.” Big Red will kick, bite, pull, hit, and spit to win. Don’t let him get close to your ear. You could come up missing an ear lobe. If you’re not up to it then stay home: the bull red gives no quarter.

All of our main passes off the Mississippi River have sandbars. They are like beaches built up by the river’s flow and the wave

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action of the Gulf of Mexico.

Southwest Pass, South Pass, Pass a Loutre, Main Pass, South East Pass, etc., all have sand bars. Bull reds love the bars. They roam along the current looking for an easy meal. So if you want a fight, drift across the bar and give them something to eat.

I use a 7-foot medium rod with a baitcasting reel. A good drag is important along with good line. I use braid, but quality mono will work.

I tie on a noisy cork. The ones with beads on both ends and a scooped top are my favorite. Then 2 feet of 30-pound mono leader and either a 2/0 kale hook or a ¼-ounce jig should be tied to the end of the leader. Buy a quality hook; a bull red will straighten out a cheap one.

I like a 4-inch plastic eel or a Queen Cacahoe in purple and gold (LSU). I also like Gulps if the bite is slow. Cast your bait as far away from the boat as possible. The fish can hear you banging around in the boat. Pop the cork two or three times really hard and let her sit.

If there is a bull within 40 yards

he will come to see what’s making the noise. He may slam your offering or the cork may just slide under the water. Either way, the fight is on. Make sure you have your nitro glycerin pills, because these bruisers’ will give you a coronary. Usually you can turn a bull after the second run.

If you can’t, hit your trolling motor and chase him. Once he gets close to the boat, he will look for the big motor, the anchor, the trolling motor, anything he can wrap around to break your line. This is a cagy adversary. Once you think you’ve whipped him, he’ll make another run. So be ready.

Once he’s worn down, he’ll roll on his side. Either net him or reach down and remove the hook with pliers. I never keep a bull, but you are allowed to keep one per person. He’s very hard to clean and you will have to cut out a lot of blood line. However, the meat makes a great courtbouillon.

SUZUKI MARINE BECOMES OFFICIAL OUTBOARD ENGINE SPONSOR OF MAJOR LEAGUE FISHING

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ajor League Fishing (MLF) and Suzuki Marine USA announced a multi-year partnership between the two brands.

Suzuki Marine will now serve as an Official CoExclusive Engine Sponsor of the MLF Bass Pro Tour and MLF5 circuits.

This expanded partnership encompasses an increased presence within the Bass Pro Tour and REDCREST, along with sponsorship across all MLF5 circuits, including the Tackle Warehouse Invitationals, Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats, Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine, Abu Garcia College Fishing Presented by YETI and Abu Garcia High School Fishing Presented by Tackle Warehouse circuits. Suzuki will be the title sponsor of a 2024 event on the Bass Pro Tour and will receive prominent exposure and on-site recognition at all MLF5 tournaments and activations.

“Our goal is to grow the Suzuki brand across the entire boating and fishing industry — and the bass fishing market is definitely an important part of our strategy,” said Brandon Cerka, Suzuki Marine USA General Manager Sales & Marketing. “Our partnership with Major League Fishing and our select team of top anglers are powerful tools for us to showcase the performance, advanced technology, and reliability of Suzuki outboards to the bass fishing world. We’re especially proud of our anglers’

success, and how they represent the Suzuki brand.”

As an official engine sponsor of MLF, Suzuki will introduce an expanded tournament contingency award program, offering enhanced incentives to tournament anglers who trust Suzuki engines for their competitions.

Additional details about the Suzuki Marine angler contingency program will be available in early 2024.

Kathy Fennel, MLF Executive Vice President and General Manager, expressed her enthusiasm

about the expanded partnership: “We take pride in building on our collaboration with Suzuki Marine and eagerly anticipate furthering their involvement in tournament bass fishing.

Suzuki has a storied history of committing to innovation and technology, and we’re thrilled to see their expanded presence from our grassroots circuits all the way through the Bass Pro Tour.”

To learn more about Suzuki Marine’s industry leading line-up of outboard motors from 2.5 to 350 horsepower, visit www.suzukimarine.com.

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67-POUND KING IS A JERSEY RECORD K

ingfish are highly sensitive to water temperatures and prefer a magic window around 70 degrees.

For this reason, they are not a frequent catch off the coast of New Jersey, where a big 67-pound, 7.2-ounce king mackerel caught this summer was recently certified

by New Jersey Fish & Wildlife as a state record.

Angler Dominic Vricella and family were limping back from the tuna grounds on July 30 after losing one of their engines, according to an article in Sport Fishing. They decided they might as well troll spoons for Spanish mackerel or bonito on the way in. It must have come as a surprise when the big king hit a Clarkspoon about 5 miles offshore near Manasquan Inlet.

It took just 10 minutes to bring the fish to the gaff, and it’s a wonder they got it in at all on 20-pound braid.

Vricella’s big king is the largest caught from waters off New Jersey in 25 years.

The previous record weighed 54 pounds and was caught back in 1998. The IGFA all-tackle world record weighed 93 pounds. It was caught off Puerto Rico in 1999.

For more New Jersey Records, visit the N.J. Fish and Wildlife website at https://dep.nj.gov/njfw/.

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