Coastal Angler Magazine | March 2022 | Fort Myers/Cape Coral/Charlotte Harbor Edition

FORT MYERS/CAPE CORAL/CHARLOTTE HARBOR EDITION

INSHORE TRANSITIONS

FREE @CAMTAMagazine

SPRING OFFSHORE TUNAS, SAILS, KINGS & MORE!

LOCAL PHOTOS & FORECASTS VOLUME 27 • ISSUE 324

PHOTO COURTESY OF: ABSOLUTE ACTION SPORTFISHING CHARTERS ABSOLUTEACTIONFISHING.COM / IG: @ABSOLUTEACTIONFISHING

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM

F R A N C H I S E

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

A V A I L A B L E

W O R L D W I D E

MARCH 2022

©2022 Sea Tow Services International, Inc. All rights reserved.

Sea Tow members are covered on every boat they own, rent, charter or borrow. ®

Inshore, offshore, or destination sportfishing — our Captains are standing by 24/7.

Are you a member?

JOIN NOW AND SAVE 10% seatow.com/angler

Protect your baby (and their toys) with coverage for fishing gear and personal property too.

1- 8 0 0 -PROG RE S S IVE / PROG RE S S IVE .COM

Progressive Casualty Insurance Co. & affiliates. Additional charge may apply. Prices vary based on how you buy.

Shhhhh. No wake zone.

W



“T



“T th —

What Stauer Clients Are Saying About Our Knives

 “This knife is beautiful!” — J., La Crescent, MN

 “The feel of this knife is unbelievable... this is an incredibly fine instrument.”

— H., Arvada, CO

StauelerPrice ®

ImpossibLY ON

99

OUR BONE-IFIED BEST BLADE 10" blade says you’re bad to the bone

M

y friend Sergio is a mixed martial arts fighter. His shoulders are broad. His muscles have muscles. He’s not the kind of person you want to be on the wrong side of.

a genuine tooled leather sheath absolutely free! And if you purchase the Blue Bone Bowie Knife and aren’t absolutely satisfied, return it for a full refund.

This manly man is bad to the bone — so much so that he carries a knife with a genuine natural blue bone handle. With its traditional plain edge and serrated spine, this knife can take care of anything life throws Sergio’s way.

Act fast! As Stauer has become popular among knife collectors for our attention to detail and excellent value, our blades usually move quickly. The first time we offered this blade, we SOLD OUT IN THREE DAYS. Of our second run of 2,348, we only have 547 left!

Inspired by our buddy’s blade, we’re offering you the Blue Bone Bowie Knife, a collectable cutlery piece that’s sure to impress.

Take Sergio’s advice and get the Blue Bone Bowie Knife today.

Otherwise, our fighting friend may have a bone to pick with you ...

Join more than 322,000 sharp people who collect stauer knives As beautiful as it is functional, this knife is 10" overall and features a high-quality 420 surgical stainless steel blade with a serrated spine. The handle is constructed of genuine natural blue bone with redwood spacers. On the handle you’ll find design work that’s carved by hand, a testament to its craftsmanship.

This knife is full tang, meaning it won’t wimp out when you need it.

This knife also features brass handguards and brass spacers with file work, so you won’t lose your grip. For easy carrying, it comes with

Knife Specifications: • 10" overall length • 420 surgical stainless steel. Full tang construction • Genuine natural blue bone and redwood handcarved handle • Genuine leather sheath included Blue Bone Bowie Knife $299 $99* + S&P California residents please call 1-800-806-1484 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product. *Special price only for customers using the offer code.

1-800-333-2045

Your Insider Offer Code: BBK135-01

Stauer, 14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. BBK135-01, Burnsville, MN 55337 www.stauer.com

Stauer® |

AFFORD THE EXTRAORDINARY

®

MARCH APPAREL

GIVEAWAY

ALL MONTH LONG!

MARCH 1-15

Dear Reader, We’re looking to expand our franchise footprint.

The Magazine is currently available throughout the Southeast, Florida, the Gulf and New England.

We’re hoping to find individuals to take on the Franchise duties for markets throughout the country. This is a good opportunity to own your own business, control your time and, to a great extent, control your income.

Our ideal Franchise Candidate will:

FROG TOGGS HIGH AND DRY SHOES FROG TOGGS PILOT PRO JACKET froggtoggs.com

ENTER TO WIN!

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/CONTEST

• Be an avid angler and/or love the outdoors.

• Have either prior business experience or a minimum of three years sales experience.

• Good communication skills • Good credit If you or someone you know is looking for an opportunity to own their own home-based business and earn a living in the outdoor industry, please contact us at 321.777.2773 x 1 or email info@coastalanglermagazine.com.

Tight lines,

MARCH 16-31

Ben Martin Editor In Chief Coastal Angler Magazine The Angler Magazine O 321-777-2773 C 602-432-1544 www.CoastalAnglerMag.com

XTRATUF ANKLE DECK BOOTS xtratuf.com/xtratuf/home/ankle-boots 4 NATIONAL

MARCH 2022

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

GEAR UP FOR SUMMER

XTREME JACKPLATES The SeaStar Xtreme Jackplates utilize high strength materials to handle some of the strongest engines on the water. The heavy-duty frames are capable of handling engines up to 400 HP. Designed with speed and durability in mind, the Xtreme Jackplates can adjust the engine height in just 8.5 seconds, even while the boat is moving at full speed.

www.dometic.com

HOOKED ON™ A CLEAN OCEAN

PA

CLEANING OUR OCEANS FOR A BETTER

TOMORROW

SUZUKI’S CLEAN OCEAN PROJECT If you’re going to claim to be “The Ultimate Outboard Motor,” you’d better do more than just build great engines. This is why, for the past 10 years, Suzuki has been committed to cleaning up the marine environment through voluntary “Clean Up The World” activities around the globe.

Through the recently launched CLEAN OCEAN PROJECT, Suzuki Marine is committed to reducing the use of plastics in packaging materials to its consumers which has led to eliminating 2.3 tons of plastic waste annually. Suzuki is continually finding ways to reduce plastic waste while educating and informing the boating industry about this critical issue. This is only the beginning and Suzuki is pledging itself to the important cause of protecting our planet’s waters, coastal environments, and marine ecosystems for future generations to enjoy.

I

YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

5 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY applies to qualifying purchases of Suzuki outboard motors sold and delivered to the retail purchaser, for pleasure (non-commercial) use only, from April 1, 2021 through March 31, 2022. See Suzuki Limited Warranty for additional details. Suzuki, the “S” logo, and Suzuki model and product names are Suzuki Trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2021 Suzuki Marine USA, LLC. All rights reserved.

tw Flo Ro season bites t of the “M favorit mid-F some uncom and it my fin spring Ro here, nutrie offsho 34’ Le a crew for ma Sailfish

S R E V I L E D H C A E PALM B

I

t was a good winter in the Atlantic off south Florida’s Palm Beach County. Capt. Austin Rowe said that bodes well for the spring season, when a convergence of several different bites typically makes for some of the best action of the year.

“March, April and May are by far my favorite time of year around here,” he said in mid-February. “We’re already starting to see some blackfin tunas right now, which is kind of uncommon. It was a crazy-good winter for mahi, and it was a good for sailfish, as well. I’ve got my fingers crossed that the fish stick around for spring, and we can really put a hurting on them.”

Rowe is a young captain who grew up fishing here, where the Gulf Stream sweeps warm nutrient-rich waters northward just a few miles offshore. He captains “Angler Management,” a 34’ Legend center console with twin 300s. With a crew of up to six clients, it is a perfect ride for making the short runs out of Singer Island’s Sailfish Marina quickly and comfortably.

By Nick Carter

“One of the really beautiful things about fishing around here is you don’t have to go very far to get to the fish,” he said.

“A full tank of gas lasts a long time.”

Most spring mornings start for clients with a run of just 3 or 4 miles out of the inlet with tanks pre-loaded with live threadfin herring and/or goggle eyes. Kite fishing is the preferred method in this part of the world, and that’s exactly what Rowe does when conditions are right.

“I’m looking at water color, temperature and moving water. I’m also looking for bait,” Rowe said. “I’m a big fan of charts, and I study them religiously looking for eddies and things, but keeping your eyes open is the biggest thing when you’re out there. If you see live water, with birds diving, it’s probably time to pick up and go see what’s happening over there.”

With kites—or drifting with flatlines when conditions call for them—you’re targeting anything that will eat live baits at the surface. That can produce some pretty exciting mixed bags.

“We see a lot of blackfin tunas. There should still be some sailfish around. The kingfish start to show up pretty thick this time of year, and there are also mahi,” Rowe said. “And don’t forget wahoo. Wahoo can get really good around the full moon in March.”

If all else fails, or if his clients just want some more meat, the reef is just a couple miles from the kite-fishing grounds, and it’s usually no problem to load up a cooler full of snappers in short order. Big African Pompano also make regular appearances on the reef.

Rowe said that by the end of the day, if his anglers aren’t too worn out, he’ll stop in the inlet and let them test their strength against some hard-pulling jack crevalle. You can pack a whole lot of fishing into a full day when you don’t have to run far to find fish.

Check out Austin Rowe and Absolute Action Sportfishing Charters at absoluteactionfishing.com.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

MARCH 2022

NATIONAL 7

ventilation, you’ll conquer every battle, every day.

GILLZ took its Pro Series UV Hoodie to the next level. They went one step further and provided anglers with a built-in mesh mask to go along with the 3-piece hood construction. Now, you’re able to keep your gear organized in one place for when that unexpected pull on the reel turns into a clash of strength.

Brand new to this collection is the Pro Series Board Shorts. Made of recycled quickdry polyester, the 9-inch inseam gives you the freedom to move without worry, and the secure cellphone hip pocket keeps your devices safe from any damage. This time, Gillz introduces anglers to a new design feature: a no-sew fabrication.

This means no chafing or irritation as you charge headfirst against the waves.

The Contenders Series, delivers an amazing fit and feel for each and every angler.

With the Contender Series Long-sleeve or Hoodie, you’re guaranteed to have 360-degree cooling and 170 GSM interlocking polyester that gives you perfect performance every single time. Moreover, you’re given an extended range of motion that allows every angler to move freely.

When facing the unpredictable outdoors, GILLZ Gear and the new Spring 2022 who want Collection will give you the power to perform to face the at your best, no matter where you and Mother elements head-on. With our GILLZTEC proprietary fabric, Nature meet. With prices starting at $39.99, there’s 4-way stretch, and the ability to modify with something for every angler from the Atlantic to the shoulder shape, the Pro Series Long-Sleeves and Pacific and every waterway in between!

Hoodies fit every angler to perfection. Plus, when Check out the Gillz Spring 2022 Collection you add on UPF 50+, ultra cooling, a single seam at gillz-gear.com. underarm mesh gusset, and complete 360-degree

TAKE YOUR GEAR TO THE NEXT LEVEL

M

other Nature isn’t known for her gentle reputation. She’s known for how she changes the direction of the boat, how she pushes the wind into your skin and lets the sun beat down through clear skies. But, as you sail the rough waters or sit, breathing the fresh air, GILLZ Gear’s new Spring 2022 Collection is at your side for anything that’s thrown your way.

Their Pro Series collection is for serious anglers

Confidence at hand

Utilizing wireless communication between wearable fobs, an engine hub and your mobile device, the 1st Mate system combines boat safety with convenience while providing a safe alternative to the traditional mechanical emergency stop switch and lanyard.

Winner of two CES Innovation Awards!

Complies with new USCG regulation regarding mandatory emergency lanyard use

8 NATIONAL

MARCH 2022

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

MONSTER BASS ON

JURASSIC LAKE

I

t piques my interest when “Jurassic” appears in a nickname. So is the case with Jurassic Lake, a 10,000-acre reservoir in Fellsmere, Florida, officially known has Headwaters Lake. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) had a goal to turn Headwaters into a worldclass trophy bass fishery. By all accounts, they succeeded.

Just a little over 10 years ago, this bassfishing mecca was farmlands, cattle pastures and orange groves. The St. Johns River Water Management District purchased the lands from Sun-Ag to build a reservoir intended to provide a water supply for surrounding communities and flood control for the St. Johns River. The FWC saw an opportunity and invested $1.35 million in bass fishing “enhancements.” Prior to the reservoir’s flooding in 2015, the FWC constructed fish habitat in the form of winding channels, dredge holes, flats, islands and more, with the goal of providing the optimum combination of structure, depth and spawning habitat. The FWC planted 15,000 bald cypress and red maple trees on the numerous islands, and they stocked over a million bass, bream and crappie. If there is a downside to Headwaters, it’s that there is so much awesome, fishy-looking habitat that it can be a little over whelming trying to figure out where to fish.

Since August 2020, when the Headwaters Lake boat ramp opened, 103 trophy bass (bass eight pounds or larger) have been registered into FWC’s Trophy Catch program from Headwaters. Who knows how many other giants were caught that were never entered into Trophy Catch? The biggest registered catch is a 13-pound, 1-ounce monster caught by kayak angler Mary Kelly on January 24, 2022. Those are pretty impressive results for a reservoir that is not even seven years old.

Jim Fallon, the Godfather of Headwaters,

10 NATIONAL

MARCH 2022

By Paul MacInnis

has probably fished these waters more than anybody.

“I love this lake because of the design of the habitats, the natural beauty and all the great fishing,” said Fallon. You’ll find Fallon on the reservoir three to five times a week. He’s been fishing there since 2018, before the boat ramp opened, when he’d drag a kayak into the reservoir from the bank. Fallon says a competent bass angler should catch 15 to 40 bass on an average day with a decent shot at a trophy fish every trip. Fallon has caught almost 50 bass over eight pounds from Headwaters, including 13 in the double digits, all on artificial baits.

The address for the Headwaters Lake boat ramp is 16245 Fellsmere Grade Road, Fellsmere, Fla. Headwaters is an hour and a half drive from Orlando, making it a great diversion on a central Florida vacation. The nearby city of Palm Bay has convenient hotels, many with bass boat friendly parking lots.

An internet search will bring up several Headwaters guides who can put you on a bass of a lifetime.

For more information, visit MyFWC.com.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

GEICO.COM/BOAT • 1-800-865-4846 • LOCAL OFFICE GREAT LOW RATES | MULTI-VEHICLE DISCOUNT | SPECIALIZED AGENTS Some discounts, coverages, payment plans, and features are not available in all states, in all GEICO companies, or in all situations. Boat and PWC coverages are underwritten by GEICO. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. © 2022 GEICO. 21_782312631

APPROACHING THE

TRANSITION

A

By Capt. Michael Okruhlik

s I type this article in early February, the temperature is 38 and the forecasted lows across the Texas coast will dip into the mid to upper twenties for a few nights. This should place larger seatrout into full-blown winter mode, which is a great thing. It might not be so cold where you fish, but similar patterns should exist wherever there are big trout.

Predicting movements and habits is always easier when the seasons are typical. This tells me where I should start in early March versus where I should fish later in the month.

In early March, I look for shallow areas with irregular soft mud and grass bottoms. I particularly like these areas adjacent to deeper water, as the night temps will still cool flats to less favorable temps for large trout. The term “deeper” will be different for each area. So, as you plan your trip, you should focus on deeper pockets in relation to the overall area.

Early in the month, I will stick to a larger profile lure

like a 5-inch paddletail. The trout will still be feeding on mature mullet, and the 5-inch swimbait is a great imitation. These lures are versatile, and they are ideal due to the finicky nature of trout during the transition from winter to spring. A slow roll can be deadly when trout move onto a flat to warm and feed. Depending on the conditions, a slow roll just under the surface that creates a slight ripple can trigger an aggressive strike.

If the bait is down, I will slow roll the lure in the mid to lower water portion of the water column.

The versatility of these lures also allows them to be jigged and twitched; however, I prefer to do that in a little deeper water.

As the water temps rise later in the month, fish become more difficult to pattern. Although high temps warm the water faster, persistent cool fronts still chill the waters, and the wind shifts can wreak havoc on the pattern. It keeps fish and anglers confused.

During this part of the season, I tend to move often, not devoting too much time to a location or pattern.

Changing things up often until you find them is more effective than banging it out in a spot like I would do in early March. Lures to choose from are wide open here.

Small and large soft plastics in the twitch or paddletail style can all be effective. Topwaters and slow sinking hard baits can also produce.

Keep moving and changing lure styles, sizes, colors and action until you find the bite.

Don’t forget to take a kid fishing. You will be surprised what they can teach you when they put the electronics down.

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

YOUR RODS. YOUR WAY. Elevate your fishing game with custom built rods.

I

pre the mo

Str silv Ge be

Ho Sil ver the U.S Th sm Ph lon en

MUDHOLE.COM 12 NATIONAL

MARCH 2022

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

Go

Gov risk as o gov

THE ALTERNATIVE TO BUYING A NEW BOAT

Suzuki RePower Centers are stationed around the southeast to help with your Suzuki service and repower needs.

Performance Bulletin Available

Lou’s Marine, Inc. Gulf Breeze

57 YEARS OF REPOWER EXPERIENCE!

Custom Marine Service

St. Augustine Marine Center

Panama City

St. Augustine

Mastry Engine Center has received the Suzuki Marine Super Service Award and has been ranked #1 in Suzuki Marine US Sales!

Repower packages designed to best fit your needs and not stretch your budget.

Financing available.

Oyster City Suzuki

Apalachicola

COMING SOON Volsuia County

On-Site Marine

Mastry Engine Center

Ruskin

Clearwater

Innovation Marine Corp.

Bayfront Yacht Works

Sarasota

Siesta Key

Calusa Certified Marine Cape Coral

Marina One

Deerfield Beach

Twin Screws Marine Service

All Suzuki repowers come with the new Suzuki 5-year factory warranty.

Fort Myers

Atlantic Marine Store Hialeah

Boat Services Group Key West

Request a quote! • suzukirepower.com • 1-800-545-4574

Go on a power trip with

GET BENT. With all this power, you'll find, pinpoint & catch fish like never before.

TZT19F 19" M ulti Touch IPS Display TZT16F 16" Mu lti Touch IPS Dis play

TZT12F 12" Hyb TZT9F 9" Hyb rid Touch IPS rid Touch IPS Display Display

Unleash the power to see fish clearer, deeper & on both sides of your boat, with unprecedented clarity.

Built-in Dual Channel1 1kW TruEcho CHIRP™ 1

2kW/3kW TruEcho CHIRP™ "Deep Impact" Power Booster2

TZT9F is a Single-Channel 1kW TruECHO CHIRPTM

DFF3D Multi Beam Sonar See 120° Port-Starboard 2

Hi-Power Radar3 With Bird Detection Mode

Compatible with TZT12F/16F/19F only

Get the whole story at NavNet.com

3

Premium Fishing & CMOR Charts

Requires external sensor

y.

GULF COUNCIL MULLING LIMIT CUTS for Kings, AJs and Gags

T

he Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council met virtually in January to make decisions that will affect Gulf anglers. The council is the regional authority charged with managing fisheries in federal waters of the Gulf. Here’s a brief overview of what was decided.

R

Vermilion Snapper After hearing a summary of public comments and recommendations from its Reef Fish Advisory Panel, the Gulf Council took final action to South Atlantic Council is expected to take final action in March meeting. increase the vermilion snapper overfishing limit, acceptable biological The Gulf Council is expected to take final action in April. catch, and annual catch limit. The most recent stock assessment determined Greater Amberjack the stock is not overfished nor experiencing overfishing. This change will The most recent assessment shows that greater amberjack is both increase the total annual catch limit, but it will not change the daily catch overfished and experiencing overfishing, and that recent average recruitment limit of 10 fish. is lower than it has ever been. The Council’s Scientific and Statistical King Mackerel Committee recommended new overfishing limit and acceptable biological A recent update stock assessment for king mackerel determined that catch recommendations for greater amberjack. These recommendations king mackerel is not overfished or experiencing overfishing. However, the require a significant decrease in harvest. spawning stock biomass was found to be below the biomass necessary to Gag Grouper achieve maximum sustainable yield.

The most recent gag grouper stock assessment determined that the stock The Gulf Council must work with the South Atlantic Council on actions for this highly migratory fish, and both are still considering options. They is overfished and experiencing overfishing. Additionally, the assessment have both removed alternatives that would reduce the recreational and identified there is a low proportion of males in the gag grouper population commercial minimum size limit for Atlantic king mackerel and will retain (less than 2%), which impacts the stock’s ability to reproduce.

The Council is obligated to end overfishing and develop a rebuilding plan the 24-inch minimum size limit. Also, they both opted to allow for the retention of cut-off/damaged Atlantic migratory group king mackerel caught for gag grouper, and initiated the development of a plan amendment to revise under the recreational bag limit that comply with minimum size limits. The catch limits, accountability measures, and other management measures.

• STEEL BUILDING • SALE • PRE-ENGINEERED BUILDINGS • SAVE • STEEL BUILDING • SALE • CARPORTS • SAVE • CALL NOW • SPECIALS • SALE • STEEL BUILDING • SALE •

MARCH MADNESS IS HERE, AND WE’RE SLICING PRICES JUST FOR YOU.

$0 DOWN FINANCING AVAILABLE UP TO $100,000

3 MONTHS NO PAYMENTS

GROWING SEASON STARTS HERE

18X31 BOAT PORT AS-LOW-AS $42.02/MO

/Month

$28.35 8X10 PORTABLE GREEN HOUSE With Approved Credit. Restrictions May Apply.

Call for Pricing

$285.00 30X50X14 METAL GARAGE AS-LOW-AS $299.00/MO

With Approved Credit. Restrictions May Apply.

With Approved Credit. Restrictions May Apply.

LIVE OAK (Corporate Office) P: 386-364-7995

CHIEFLAND P: 352-490-5028

LIVE OAK SUPER CENTER P: 386-364-1548

MASARYKTOWN P: 352-797-2291

620 W. Howard St. (Hwy 90 W.)

211 72nd Trace

Financing Disclaimer:

•M s

•W p

•O

•F

•A w

/Month

MANAGERS SPECIAL

CUSTOMIZE YOUR 2 STORY WEEKENDER AS-LOW-AS $295.00/MO

7 Locations

•M

$143.10

/Month

SERVING ALL OF FLORIDA AND SOUTH GEORGIA

W C

/Month

AS-LOW-AS $42.60/MO

With Approved Credit. Restrictions May Apply.

Su of ex ad

•M r

6 MONTHS NO PAYMENTS

$35.10

b

2495 Young Blvd.

PERRY

P: 850-223-1939 2320 Hwy. 19 S. Byron Butler Pwky

WAYCROSS

P: 850-223-1939 2203 Memorial Drive Waycross, GA 31501

568 S. Broad St.

Subject to credit approval. Fixed APR of 3.99% for 84 months. For each $1,000 financed, 5 payments of $3.33 followed by 79 amortized payments of $14.41.

Subject to credit approval. Fixed APR of 11.99% for 84 months. For each $1,000 financed, 5 payments of $9.99 followed by 79 amortized payments of $18.36.

DADE CITY P: 352-583-2410 20229 US 301

28X30X12 CUSTOM WORK GARAGE AS-LOW-AS $189.00/MO +TAX With Approved Credit. Restrictions May Apply.

KEENSBUILDINGS.COM View our inventory online.

Subject to qualifying credit approval. Interest is billed during the promotional period but all interest is waived if the purchase amount is paid in full within 12 months.

Financing for GreenSky® consumer loan programs is provided by federally insured, federal and state chartered financial institutions without regard to age, race, color, religion, national origin, gender or familial status.

• STEEL BUILDING • SALE • PRE-ENGINEERED BUILDINGS • SAVE • STEEL BUILDING • SALE • CARPORTS • SAVE • CALL NOW • SPECIALS • SALE • STEEL BUILDING • SALE •

4 FLORIDA

MARCH 2022

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

Consider Ad

Consider A Mastry Suzuki RePower

It Simply Makes Sense

Repowering your boat with Mastry Suzuki outboards gives you an effective

blend of pure power and rugged durability.

Suzuki’s extensive lineup of four-stroke outboards are built for long life, reliable performance, fuel efficiency, quiet operation, ease of access to major parts, and simplified integration. Plus, with Mastry Suzuki’s reputation for high-quality, customer service and extensive marine dealer network — including genuine Suzuki parts and service — we are prepared to support you wherever your adventures lead.

When Considering A Repower, Consider These Factors: • Mastry Suzuki RePower exclusive Owner’s Edge Program* • Mastry Suzuki RePower Centers are located throughout the southeast • Mastry has over 5-decades of repower experience for proper rigging, controls, propeller matching and in water testing • With Mastry Suzuki RePower owners gain improved performance, less noise and greater reliability • Options that will fit most any budget • Financing available • All Suzuki RePowers come with latest factory backed 5-year warranty

Get with the Program! *When you purchase a new Suzuki outboard from an authorized Marstry RePower Center you qualify to become a member of the Mastry Suzuki Owner’s Edge. Owners receive an identification card that provides them with important information about their Suzuki outboard motor as well as a passport to additional benefits during ownership. Members enjoy a detailed engine maintenance schedule, Mastry Suzuki RePower Trade Program and special pricing from Mastry Suzuki Partners. suzukirepower.com

1-800-545-4574 Consider Ad for CA 210608.indd 1

7/15/21 8:30 AM

Catch High Season For Marlin in the Bahamas

I The MicroWave Line Control System is scientifically proven to improve fishing rod performance.

Cast Further, Smoother & More Accurately with these

info@americantackle.us | americantackle.us

6 FLORIDA

MARCH 2022

f a big blue marlin is on your bucket list, there’s no better time to visit The Bahamas than over the next few months, when high season for billfish brings giant pelagics to the deep blue waters off the islands.

Bahamian waters are the birthplace of big-game sportfishing. Back in the 1930s, the world was introduced to adventure like no other when anglers like Ernest Hemingway and Michael Lerner did battle with giant marlin and big bluefin tuna off Bimini.

The fishing is still ridiculously good. Marlin season in the Bahamas begins in March or April, when the white marlin arrive, and by June or July things get into full swing when big blue marlin show up. They come in numbers to feed off the islands, and PHOTO COURTESY OF The Out Islands Bahamas throughout summer it is not unusual to have days with multiple bites on the same trip.

In recent years, far-flung destinations like Africa and Australia might have come to the forefront as the best places to tie into granders (blue marlin that weigh in excess of 1,000 pounds). Yet, The Bahamas remain one of, if not the best place, in the world to actually catch blue marlin. It’s worth noting that the Out Islands of The Bahamas are a quick and easy trip for anglers in the eastern U.S. White and blue marlin are the marquee species when trolling off The Bahamas, and there’s also a good chance other highly sought after gamefish will crash into the spread. When the outrigger snaps, you might be reeling in wahoo, tuna or mahi for dinner.

Check out all the action the Out Islands of The Bahamas have to offer at www.myoutislands.com.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

(561) 758-8758 Phone Orders Can Be Shipped

Custom Spliced Dock Lines & Anchor Rodes

Re-Discover Old Florida

Waterfront Charm

The Perfect Vacation Getaway for Fishing, Boating & Outdoor Enthusiasts

R E S E RV E YOUR ST A FOR 28 D Y AYS OR LONG E & RECEIV R E 50% OFF

Nestled on six lush tropical acres of pristine waterfront directly on the Indian River Lagoon, take a step back in time to experience the very best of Old Florida charm with modern conveniences and services to make your stay truly memorable and unforgettable.

• FULLY FURNISHED 3 ROOM COTTAGES WITH FULLY EQUIPPED KITCHENS • • • • • • •

Kingfish Lodge includes a wide screen TV and bar for small gatherings Sailfish House features a wide covered wrap-around porch for larger groups Boat Trailer Parking on site w/ Water and Power 250 Foot Dock w/ Covered Area FREE Ice / FREE Guest Dockage TRAVEL Cable TV, Hi-Speed Internet Cover Your Vacation 2 miles to the Ft. Pierce Inlet with Travel Insurance 12 miles to the Gulf Stream Laundry, BBQ Grilles and FREE use of our Kayaks P R O T E C T I O N

NIGHTLY • WEEKLY • MONTHLY • SEASONAL RATES

3011 N. Indian River Dr., Ft. Pierce, FL 34946

www.indianriverlagoonwaterfrontcottages.com

Reservations and Information: (772) 349-2206

YOUR HEALTH AND SAFETY ARE OUR UTMOST CONCERN COVID-19 CDC GUIDELINES ARE IN FULL EFFECT

All accommodations are completely cleaned and sanitized prior to guest arrival COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

MARCH 2022

FLORIDA 9

Largemouth Bass: Florida’s Gift to the World

F

lorida is the land of sunshine and hurricanes.

If you stopped random people on the street in any other location in the world and asked them what first comes to mind about Florida, most would offer something about places like Daytona Beach, Disney World or the beaches of Miami.

Florida is also the second largest producer of beef in the U.S., and of course Florida oranges and Indian River grapefruit. If that person you stopped fishes, they would likely talk about the Florida Keys, tarpon, or any of the other sought-after saltwater fish. But, for the freshwater angler, Lake Okeechobee largemouth bass are what dreams are made of. “Lake O” needs no introduction for those familiar with the bass fishing world.

Black bass in Florida have a long and storied history. Bass anglers across the country can thank Florida and those early fishery managers who had the foresight to protect largemouth bass. The early years of the 20th century saw bass population depleted due to their importance as a food source and no regulations. As a result, the 1926 Black Bass Act was passed to restrict interstate commerce of bass and allowed states to designate them as a gamefish. These restrictions and future

By Rex Hannon

regulations limited commercial harvest and sale and increased their value as a sport fish.

By mid-century, large reservoirs across the U.S. were built to accommodate the growing need for electric power. These were prime locations for bass stocking and management programs. Today, largemouth bass have been successfully exported worldwide. The economic impact is impressive; bass fishing is a $60 billion industry.

Today’s Florida offers the best bass fishing on the planet. Lake Okeechobee is considered the pinnacle here, but trophy fish can be found in the countless lakes, ponds and canals that are readily available to any angler almost everywhere in the state. There is no need to travel to exotic locations or plan a vacation around fishing for monster largemouths. With a little research and some scouting, you can find them in your hometown, and often in your own neighborhood.

Florida largemouth bass are a hardy species, and you can target them in a wide range of habitat and water qualities. I have caught largemouths and snook in the same canals and ponds. This speaks to the adaptability of both species.

There has never been a better time to be an angler. Anglers today have access to many species

that in the past would have required a trip to far away and exotic locations. Native Florida bass have not only become a sought-after species for sport, they are an economic generator for future generations.

There are anglers worldwide who dream of fishing Florida for a trophy bass of a lifetime.

Whether you’re an avid angler or just someone who wets a line when time permits, today’s Florida offers something for everyone.

T t

L y

D yo pe

Th ya

Fr al qu

w 10 FLORIDA

MARCH 2022

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

The way we spend our time defines who we are.....

Let us help you get the perfect machine for your “ME” time.

Designed to work smarter than the competition, the 1 Series Compact Tractors maximize your yard without breaking the bank. From the comfort of your seat, you’ll appreciate big performance and convenient sizes.

The affordable 1023E is easy to use and provides plenty of muscle for jobs around the yard.

From mowing and loading to tilling and digging, these compact tractors are built to make a long day of chores feel simple. When you turn the key of a John Deere 1 Series, you’ll quickly see why these tractors are the one.

www.EFE1963.com

•

•SU •EN •99

12 FLORIDA

MARCH 2022

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

*LIF 16 BREVARD

J

It’s That Time of The Year By: Capt. Dave Stephens

W

e had a great start to our winter months, but Mother Nature always has a say in it at some point. As we push forward into March, that rings in the time of year that we have been waiting for.

This is the month that we consider to be spring, and this means that some of our greatest game fish will begin to wake from their slumbers. Without a doubt the fish that has the most anticipation for me is snook. Over the past several months our snook fishery has been good. We had some major cold fronts in February that completely shut our snook fishery down. Water temps play a major role in how these fish feed.

When our water temps drop below the mid 60's for several days, snook descend into a slumber. Kind of like a bear that is hibernating for the winter and much like bear that has spent the past couple months hibernating, they wake up hungry. For the last couple weeks our local snook schools have found their homes in our deep waters like residential canals and the main rivers that flow in from the Gulf of Mexico. Like a mamma bear coming from her den, they're very hungry. Springtime is the best time to target trophy snook. Southwest Florida is considered one of the top destinations in the world for this. I'm often asked what is a trophy snook? Well, unlike most fish we do not use weight to measure

a trophy, instead we use length. A true once in a lifetime fish is over 40”, however it's not uncommon to catch a fish over 43”. This is when things get tricky when targeting fish in this range as it takes a lot of dedication. It takes someone that is willing to be patient, willing to wait for that one bite. Then when that one bite happens, well you have just hooked, in my opinion, one of the smartest fish in Southwest Florida.

That fish is going to do everything in its power to break you off. Any overhang, mangrove root, rock or dock piling is going to be her home.

For my fellow readers that hunt White Tail Deer, it's like the time you spent for that trophy buck. Fortunately, for chasing monster snook nothing has to die to accomplish your goal and dream. As a deer hunter myself and a trophy snook angler, I find them very similar. It comes down to playing a big game of hide and go seek. A game that you never had a shot to win, but that one time when you do! It's a feeling that you will never forget. The time of year has arrived for targeting big snook. Give us a call to catch your fish of a lifetime.

Back Bay Xtremes |Backbayextremes.com 941-916-5769

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | MARCH 2022 | FORT MYERS 1

Springtime in SWFL By: Capt. Bart Marx

T

he waters are warming up and the fish are getting more active.

The mackerels should be migrating north following the bait balls. Troll for kings, Kings fishing with live bait. Most of the time I like to put out a bonus rod. When I am bottom fishing for snapper and grouper I will setup a rod to go out behind the boat. Usually a spinning rod with 30 lb. braid and a same pound leader of 6 or 8 feet.

Then I use a wire leader for the mackerel they have lots of sharp teeth.

Live threadfin hearing work well, but you can use spanish sardines or most small fish for bait, like pin fish or others. While you are catching the bottom fish they on the way to the boat are purging trying to spit the hook out. This creates an underwater chum slick that will attract the kings. Cast the bonus rod out behind your boat about 20 yards.

This also requires a bobber of some sort, you could use a balloon or a popping cork bobber whatever, about 6 feet from the hook. Some of the fish to target while fishing for the kings would be mangrove snapper and lane snapper, along with some porgies and grunts all of these are good table fare. If you are able to get out to 100 feet of water on some artificial reefs you could chum up some yellow tail snapper. The way I like to get set up on a reef is figure out the current and wind. When you figure this out, travel out far enough away as to drop your anchor being

able to motor back to the edge of the structure. This way you chum and pull the fish away from the structure. This will help with predictors goliath, sharks etc. When you are drifting your baits out you need to use a spinner with the bail open and let the line go out as smooth as possible.

When I do this, I use an extra-long leader to keep the hook away from your colored braid like a leader on a fly rod. The leader could be as small as 15 lb. test so it won’t spook the fish, and you get more bites. Also, from 80 to 100 feet there should be some nice red grouper to harvest.

Most of this has been for offshore fishing let’s talk about in shore. The trout and reds should be plentiful to catch, look at the FISH RULES I have herd they might be opening reds soon in our area. This would be awesome it has been a long time that I have had red fish to eat. Have not heard anything about snook, they usually send e-mails if they are going to open or close a species of fish. Keep up with the FWC regulations so you are in compliance.

Alpha Omega Charters | alphaomegacharters.com captbart@alphaomegacharters.com | 941-979-6517 2 FORT MYERS | MARCH 2022 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

s.com -6517

It’s Transition Time By: Capt. Mike Manis

W

e are heading into spring and the winter pattern of working deep into the back country and around sand holes on low tides out on the flats is about to change. We’ll still get to deal with the wind, but warmer air and water temperatures should begin to bring the bait in from offshore and the fish will get aggressive. It’s not unusual to see a good cold snap in March, but overall, it’s a big change from the past two months.

Typically, I still like spending some time working around shorelines adjacent to backcountry creek systems but I’ll begin looking around outer islands closer to the outside. As the month progresses I’ll spend more and more time on the outside. Keep in mind, the first place the scaled sardines or “whitebait” show up are on the best grass flats closest to the passes.

After a cool couple of months, the snook will also begin to make their way out of these creek systems. With the higher tides of spring they’ll work their way to some of these outer shorelines and will need to put on some weight after the slim pickings of winter. Shorelines with some adjacent deep cuts and drops are always prime habitat.

Many of the bays, sounds, and flats that surround the harbor will be holding redfish and spotted sea trout. They’ll also be looking to fatten up a bit. So, I’ll be throwing some larger baitfish patterns with profiles to match the scaled sardines. I also like larger 4-inch soft plastic paddle tail baits and first thing in the morning who doesn’t like throwing a good old top water plug. It’s that time of year.

Towards the end of the month, it’s even possible to see some tarpon show up in the upper harbor. These are resident fish that come out of the rivers. Generally, April is prime for this bite, but if it’s warm enough, late March could be good.

Cobia will also begin to appear around the bars that surround both the east and west walls. I like to pole or run the trolling motor down the outside edge and look for groups of cow nose rays as it’s not unusual to find the cobia close behind. In addition, these bar structures also should still be holding some pompano. Hard bottom is the key and I’ve found them up and down both the east and west walls on any given day.

Moreover, it’s not unusual to run into a school of hard fighting jacks anywhere around these bar systems.

The sheepshead bite should still be strong anywhere there is structure. On windy days, some live shrimp thrown up under any canal system dock can make for a good time. The canals hold good numbers.

SCHUMAN INSURANCE

"Nothing Like A Day On The Water!"

WE KNOW BOATS!

Why insure yours with anyone else!

I'm Capt. David Schuman a second generation insurance agent.

Our family has been serving Lee County for 42 years.

Boat Auto Home Motorcycle Life Business Capt. David Schuman 1329 Hibiscus Dr., Cape Coral, FL 33909 239-242-8072 Davidschuman3@allstate.com

Punta Gorda Fly Charters | puntagordaflycharters.com 941-628-7895

2801 Del Prado Blvd S., Cape Coral, FL 33904 239-945-8888

3114 Lee Blvd Suite 4, Lehigh Acres, FL 33971 239-369-1313

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | MARCH 2022 | FORT MYERS 3

March Fishing in Pine Island Sound and Around By: Capt. Terry Fisher

M

arch is the transitional month that I look forward to. I become more confident that I will not be disappointed with productivity from a variety of species, both inshore and offshore. The only thing not to like about March, is the potential for windy conditions.

Unfortunately, we have been dealing with higher winds than usual during the past many months. The recent strong winds have played havoc on water quality and productivity.

Hopefully, March will be kind to us this year and the winds subside, giving way to quality fishing.

However, the stronger and higher tides that accompany the ‘springtime’ month will provide access to more inshore fishing locations throughout Pine Island Sound, Estero Bay and Matlacha backwaters.

Offshore access is only affected by wind, the size and quality of one’s vessel.

Springtime brings out the best in people and fish. The fish are less lethargic and more aggressive. Strikes become more aggressive on both artificial and live presentations. Artificial presentations include soft plastics, topwater, swim and twitch baits. Shrimp, pilchards, pinfish and threadfins some of the more effective live baits. Depending on the water temperatures, migratory species such as; spanish mackerel, kingfish, tarpon and shark will open up the fishery making it worthwhile to target just off the beaches and passes.

Like many other fish, Sheepshead are both inshore and offshore.

They normally come inshore about December and remain until sometime in March in good numbers and large sizes. This year they have been ‘slow’ to arrive and were not as plentiful in previous months.

However, they are harvestable and hopefully will remain inshore for a period of time to provide some great angling and eating for those who like to target them.

The Seatrout bite should be good this month with more large ones in the mix. During the winter months, I target them in the grass flats anywhere from three to five foot of water. The higher March tides however, may offer opportunities throughout the month to fish deeper holes and areas around the mangrove islands in search of the larger, more skeptical trout. Regardless of when or where one fishes for them, they will bite on artificial and live presentations.

The Spanish Mackerel (‘Spaniards’) migration should be in full swing. They will be found off the beaches, in the passes and inshore. Watch for diving birds and catch them on live or artificial

presentations. I utilize a couple of methods: 1) I like to target them in the passes or off the beaches on incoming and outgoing tides. I freeline pilchards on light tackle with heavy monofilament leaders to prevent ‘bite-offs’. Other than for Kingfish, I do not like to use wire line with or without ‘stinger’ hooks, although they are very effective. I have a good catch rate and more bites on 40lb. monofilament leaders with 1oz. silver spoons (slow troll or cast) in the passes.

2) In the grass flats while fishing for seatrout one may expect to catch a number of ‘Spaniards’ on artificial or live bait presentations. I recommend and use a popping cork on most all occasions when fishing for seatrout in the deeper grassy flats. Spanish mackerel, pompano, ladyfish, jack crevalle usually become part of the action.

The redfish action should start to pick-up for anglers as the higher tides allow access to more areas that hold them. During the winter months we experience low water levels preventing anglers from getting boats to reclusive locations to fish for them. During the winter months, I spend a lot of time working the high side of the tides in and around the passes, under and around docks, with a lot of current. Not as effective as ‘back-country’ locations around the oyster bars and mangrove islands, but it produces from time to time. These fish become by-catches of Sheepshead as well. They all hang around the same areas and locations, it is just a matter of when they are there (time of day). I prefer live shrimp, live pilchards, live or cut Pinfish.

Springtime snook will be found at the mouth of creeks and up the rivers. They will also be in the shallows of the passes and under the respective docks. Again, the higher March tides will allow anglers access to the same ‘backcountry’ locations that redfish will be found. Live presentations of pilchards for these fish will be the most productive most of the time, but artificial presentations will work for ‘die-hard’ anglers.

Offshore locations should produce some nice size mangrove and lane snappers along with grunts for harvesting. These will be accessible for anglers not having vessels for long-range running (10 or more miles out). I suggest one looks to 35-45 foot of water with bottom structure such as grass, rubble, etc. Medium heavy rods with small circle hooks (1/0-2/0) and light leaders of 15-20lb for best results.

Recommended baits are squid, pilchards, silver side minnows and shrimps. Take more chum than beer for best results!

Long range offshore locations (35-40 miles) with depths from 85 to 110 ft. should produce some nice mangroves, lane snappers and grouper for harvesting. Baits of choice will include squid, pinfish, cigar minnows and shrimps. Use 3/0-6/0 circle hooks with a 40lb leader on heavier rods and reels (5000 to 6000 series. If one has not been successful in strategy and hook ups offshore, give me a call.

This is Captain Terry Fisher of Fish Face Charters LLC wishing everyone good fishing. Check out my website at www.fishfacecharters. com, Instagram or Facebook for updates. Email me at fishfacecharters@ yahoo.com or call me at 239-357-6829 to book a charter. I am available as Captain for Hire on your vessel (by the hour) for navigation, fishing locations and techniques that insure you always catch fish.

4 FORT MYERS | MARCH 2022 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

Fish Face Charters | fishfacecharters.com | 239-357-6829

-6829 FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | MARCH 2022 | FORT MYERS 5

g n i ol w n S ow D : By

I

Joe

r ffe ea h S

t has definitely been a challenging winter season. Cold temperatures have set in and low water tides have made it difficult to consistently catch fish which is typical in past months. However, there are ways to work around these conditions starting with areas that fish will use to weather through challenging conditions is an obvious key. I like to find hard structure areas (rock, bridges, docks, patch reefs, to name a

few) around deeper water. With colder temperatures fish will relate near these areas. These tend to warm a bit quicker because of the nature of the structure and they provide current breaks.

This time of year, current is important but they definitely don’t want to fight the current.

Figuring out how the fish will relate along these stretches is important. They will still face towards the current for feeding opportunities. I like to keep my boat into the current working my presentation with the current. Slowing your presentation, using heavier jigs or weight will help. You will probably get hung up quite a bit but it can be worth it. Sometimes you almost need to hit these fish in the head to get them to bite. Many times, I will pop my jig and let it sit for a while (15-30 sec), then pop it again. I have caught many fish, mostly snook, reds, grouper, and sheepshead to name a few, using this technique. Once you pop (a quick lift off the bottom) your jig and let it sit, you may feel an AWESOME thump and the key to all this is slowing down. This time of year, bites may be few but they can produce some seriously nice fish. Good luck and keep casting.

6 FORT MYERS | MARCH 2022 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

With will ree tend use of e and reaks. ent is nitely rrent. h will hes is l face eding ep my orking e curation, ht will y get can be lmost e head times, sit for pop it y fish, g this d let it owing some

Predators Spearos Encounter

By: Capt. Chad Carney

S

ix predators divers need to keep an eye open for underwater. They hunt the same prey we do, so interaction is bound to happen. #1 are sharks of course, but history has shown they are not really interested in us, by the way spiders, dogs, and lightning each kill more people worldwide than sharks. Spearfishing attacks usually fall into the provoked category. I’ve been spearing for 50 years and seen lots of sharks, but I’ve never been hit, bit or lost a fish to a shark. Attracting sharks intentionally is crazy, but some divers are chumming to get shots at cobia hanging with sharks. #2 are Goliath Groupers. I’ve been mugged by goliaths, along with friends, grabbed by extremities and one by his head and torso. We’re all still alive and diving! Goliaths have been protected in USA since 1990.

They are much smarter than sharks and quickly learn they can rush a diver after a shot and often steal fish.

Goliath population in the Gulf is huge. Your best bet to win a tussle is to beat them to the prey and keep your gun in hand. Keep your fish tight to your body, not trolling it behind. I’ve had to poke predators and also pull my fish back out of their mouths. If you give up easily they want more. #3 Barracuda can weigh over 60#s, all teeth and muscle. They often pick off your prey before you can reach it. Little barracudas are fast and they know it. Usually they get just one bite and rarely are big problems for spearfishermen, but don’t dress flashy!

#4 Moray eels have been known to steal many a divers prey as they are the best at getting skinny into a reef to reach a rocked up fish. They defend their new-found possession fearlessly. Moray’s have added a few scars to my fingers, right through HD spearfishing gloves while I was still struggling to secure my fish from an unseen moray. #5 I once had a big loggerhead turtle lunge more than once for a fish on my spear while I held onto it. My reaction was “Are you kidding me? I kept my fish!” #6 I’ve had divers deliberately taking wild shots near me in attempts to steal away my fish! Be careful who you chose as dive buddies. A good friend of mine shot an amberjack and had it on his stringer in his hand ascending in decent visibility. Another diver shot at his fish, missed it, and instead speared through my buddy’s ankle. Then the bad shooter almost drowned him in a lame rescue attempt! My buddies and I have passed on shooting when the visibility was too poor.

Moving a few miles can often find clearer water. Use common sense and have well trained buddies, and enjoy spearfishing with little fear of injury!

chad.carney@yahoo.com https://www.facebook.com/floridaskindiver/ https://www.deeperblue.com/beginners-guide-spearfishing/ 727-423-7775

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | MARCH 2022 | FORT MYERS 7

3771 Palm Beach Blvd., Ft. Myers, FL 33916 239.694.2185

MATLACHA

www.USHarbors.com

March/2022 • 26°38’N 82°4’W

Matlacha Pass, FL - Mar 2022 High

Date

fishfacecharters@ yahoo.com 239.357.6829

FORT MYERS

www.USHarbors.com

March/2022 • 26°39’N 81°52’W

Fort Myers, FL - Mar 2022

Low

High

Date

AM

ft

PM

ft

AM

ft

PM

ft

Rise

Set

Moon

9:17

-0.6

8:18

0.7

6:53

6:32

1

Low

AM

ft

PM

ft

AM

ft

PM

ft

Rise

Set

Tue

2:06

1.0

3:57

0.6

10:16

-0.4

8:59

0.1

6:49

6:29

1

Tue

12:53

1.9

3:26

1.1

2

Wed

1:48

1.8

3:35

1.1

9:49

-0.4

9:10

0.5

6:52

6:32

2

Wed

3:02

1.0

4:22

0.7

10:43

-0.3

9:54

0.0

6:48

6:30

3

Thu

2:38

1.7

3:45

1.2

10:15

-0.2

9:58

0.3

6:51

6:33

3

Thu

3:50

1.0

4:47

0.8

11:04

-0.2

10:44

-0.1

6:47

6:30

4

Fri

3:24

1.6

3:57

1.3

10:38

0.0

10:45

0.2

6:50

6:33

4

Fri

4:35

0.9

5:12

0.8

11:22

-0.2

11:33

-0.1

6:46

6:31

5

Sat

4:10

1.4

4:13

1.5

10:57

0.2

11:32

0.0

6:49

6:34

5

Sat

5:18

0.7

5:36

0.9

11:39

-0.1

6:45

6:32

6

Sun

4:58

1.2

4:33

1.6

11:15

0.4

6:48

6:35

6

Sun

6:02

0.6

6:00

0.9

12:22

-0.2

11:57A

-0.1

6:44

6:32

7

Mon

5:54

1.0

4:57

1.7

12:21

0.0

11:31A

0.5

6:47

6:35

7

Mon

6:54

0.4

6:26

1.0

1:16

-0.2

12:16

-0.1

6:43

6:33

8

Tue

7:08

0.9

5:26

1.7

1:16

-0.1

11:41A

0.7

6:46

6:36

8

Tue

8:02

0.2

6:54

1.0

2:19

-0.2

12:37

0.0

6:42

6:33

9

Wed

6:02

1.7

2:21

-0.1

6:45

6:36

9

Wed

9:40

0.1

7:28

0.9

3:37

-0.3

12:59

0.0

6:41

6:34

10

Thu

6:49

1.6

3:39

-0.1

6:43

6:37

10

Thu

8:11

0.9

5:16

-0.3

6:40

6:34

11

Fri

8:00

1.5

5:02

-0.1

6:42

6:38

11

Fri

9:11

0.8

6:38

-0.4

6:39

6:35

12

Sat

9:38

1.5

6:12

-0.2

6:41

6:38

12

Sat

10:37

0.8

7:33

-0.5

4:41

0.3

6:38

6:35

13

Sun

3:31

1.1

8:06

-0.3

6:50

1.1

7:40

7:39

13

Sun

3:39

0.5

9:15

-0.5

7:12

0.3

7:37

7:36

14

Mon

12:03

1.6

3:31

1.1

8:49

-0.3

7:55

0.9

7:39

7:39

14

Mon

1:05

0.8

4:01

0.6

9:51

-0.4

8:21

0.3

7:36

7:36

15

Tue

1:05

1.6

3:36

1.2

9:24

-0.3

8:41

0.8

7:38

7:40

15

Tue

2:14

0.9

4:21

0.6

10:21

-0.3

9:16

0.2

7:35

7:37

16

Wed

1:55

1.7

3:41

1.2

9:53

-0.3

9:21

0.6

7:37

7:40

16

Wed

3:09

1.0

4:39

0.7

10:46

-0.3

10:03

0.1

7:34

7:37

17

Thu

2:40

1.7

3:48

1.3

10:19

-0.2

10:00

0.4

7:36

7:41

17

Thu

3:57

1.0

4:55

0.8

11:08

-0.2

10:48

0.0

7:33

7:38

18

Fri

3:23

1.7

3:58

1.4

10:42

0.0

10:41

0.2

7:35

7:41

18

Fri

4:42

1.0

5:12

0.9

11:28

-0.1

11:33

-0.1

7:32

7:38

19

Sat

4:08

1.6

4:13

1.5

11:05

0.2

11:24

0.0

7:33

7:42

19

Sat

5:26

0.9

5:31

1.0

11:48

0.0

7:30

7:39

20

Sun

4:57

1.5

4:34

1.7

11:26

0.4

7:32

7:42

20

Sun

6:12

0.8

5:55

1.1

12:20

-0.1

12:07

0.0

7:29

7:39

21

Mon

5:52

1.3

4:59

1.8

12:12

-0.2

11:45A

0.6

7:31

7:43

21

Mon

7:04

0.6

6:24

1.2

1:13

-0.2

12:26

0.1

7:28

7:40

22

Tue

7:00

1.1

5:30

1.9

1:06

-0.3

11:59A

0.7

7:30

7:44

22

Tue

8:06

0.5

6:59

1.3

2:15

-0.2

12:44

0.1

7:27

7:40

23

Wed

8:46

0.9

6:08

2.0

2:11

-0.3

11:49A

0.9

7:29

7:44

23

Wed

9:32

0.3

7:40

1.3

3:31

-0.2

1:01

0.2

7:26

7:41

24

Thu

6:57

2.0

3:32

-0.3

7:28

7:45

24

Thu

8:29

1.2

5:07

-0.3

7:25

7:41

25

Fri

8:06

1.9

5:05

-0.3

7:27

7:45

25

Fri

9:35

1.1

6:48

-0.3

7:24

7:42

26

Sat

9:52

1.8

6:32

-0.4

7:26

7:46

26

Sat

11:10

1.0

7:59

-0.4

4:39

0.4

7:23

7:42

27

Sun

11:42

1.8

7:38

-0.4

6:09

1.2

7:24

7:46

27

Sun

2:57

0.5

8:50

-0.4

6:34

0.4

7:22

7:43

28

Mon

3:07

1.2

8:29

-0.4

7:46

1.0

7:23

7:47

28

Mon

12:54

1.0

3:21

0.7

9:30

-0.3

8:00

0.3

7:21

7:43

29

Tue

1:03

1.8

3:11

1.3

9:08

-0.3

8:45

0.7

7:22

7:47

29

Tue

2:13

1.0

3:47

0.8

10:03

-0.2

9:08

0.2

7:20

7:44

30

Wed

2:04

1.7

3:20

1.4

9:39

-0.1

9:33

0.4

7:21

7:48

30

Wed

3:12

1.0

4:12

0.9

10:29

-0.1

10:04

0.1

7:18

7:44

31

Thu

2:57

1.7

3:29

1.5

10:04

0.1

10:16

0.2

7:20

7:48

31

Thu

4:00

1.0

4:37

1.0

10:48

0.0

10:55

0.0

7:17

7:45

3:21P

1.2

8 FORT MYERS | MARCH 2022 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

2:15P

2:39P

0.4

0.4

Moon

10871 Kelly Rd Ft Myers, FL 33908 239.267.6857

SANIBEL/ CAPTIVA

www.USHarbors.com

March/2022 • 26°29’N 82°11’W

Captiva Island (outside), FL - Mar 2022 High

Date

ft

PM

ft

AM

ft

PM

ft

Rise

Set

www.USHarbors.com

March/2022 • 26°56’N 82°4’W

Punta Gorda, Charlotte Harbor, FL - Mar 2022

Low

AM

15881 Chief Ct., Ft. Myers, FL 33912 239.489.0884

PUNTA GORDA/ CHARLOTTE HABOR

High

Date

Moon

Low

AM

ft

PM

ft

AM

ft

PM

ft

Rise

Set

9:16

-0.6

8:17

0.7

6:50

6:30

1

Tue

12:23P

1.4

10:45

2.5

5:21

-0.8

4:22

0.9

6:53

6:32

1

Tue

1:16

1.9

3:49

1.1

2

Wed

12:32P

1.5

11:35

2.4

5:53

-0.6

5:14

0.7

6:52

6:32

2

Wed

2:11

1.8

3:58

1.1

9:48

-0.4

9:09

0.5

6:49

6:30

3

Thu

12:42

1.7

6:19

-0.3

6:02

0.4

6:51

6:33

3

Thu

3:01

1.7

4:08

1.2

10:14

-0.2

9:57

0.3

6:48

6:31

4

Fri

12:21

2.2

12:54

1.8

6:42

0.0

6:49

0.2

6:50

6:33

4

Fri

3:47

1.6

4:20

1.3

10:37

0.0

10:44

0.2

6:47

6:32

5

Sat

1:07

1.9

1:10

2.0

7:01

0.2

7:36

0.1

6:49

6:34

5

Sat

4:33

1.4

4:36

1.5

10:56

0.2

11:31

0.0

6:46

6:32

6

Sun

1:55

1.7

1:30

2.2

7:19

0.5

8:25

0.0

6:48

6:35

6

Sun

5:21

1.2

4:56

1.6

11:14

0.4

6:45

6:33

7

Mon

2:51

1.4

1:54

2.3

7:35

0.7

9:20

-0.1

6:47

6:35

7

Mon

6:17

1.0

5:20

1.7

12:20

0.0

11:30A

0.5

6:44

6:33

8

Tue

4:05

1.2

2:23

2.3

7:45

0.9

10:25

-0.1

6:46

6:36

8

Tue

7:31

0.9

5:49

1.7

1:15

-0.1

11:40A

0.7

6:43

6:34

9

Wed

2:59

2.3

11:43

-0.1

6:45

6:36

9

Wed

6:25

1.7

2:20

-0.1

6:42

6:34

10

Thu

3:46

2.2

6:43

6:37

10

Thu

7:12

1.6

3:38

-0.1

6:41

6:35

11

Fri

4:57

2.1

1:06

-0.2

6:42

6:38

11

Fri

8:23

1.6

5:01

-0.1

6:40

6:35

12

Sat

6:35

2.1

2:16

-0.3

6:41

6:38

12

Sat

10:01

1.5

6:11

-0.2

6:39

6:36

13

Sun

12:28P

1.5

9:00

2.1

4:10

-0.4

2:54

1.5

7:40

7:39

13

Sun

3:54

1.1

8:05

-0.3

6:49

1.1

7:38

7:37

14

Mon

12:28P

1.6

10:02

2.2

4:53

-0.4

3:59

1.3

7:39

7:39

14

Mon

12:26

1.6

3:54

1.1

8:48

-0.3

7:54

0.9

7:37

7:37

15

Tue

12:33P

1.6

10:52

2.3

5:28

-0.4

4:45

1.1

7:38

7:40

16

1.6

3:59

1.2

9:23

-0.3

8:40

0.8

7:36

7:38

1.6

2.3

-0.3

5:25

1:28

12:38P

5:57

Tue

Wed

11:37

15

0.8

7:37

7:40

17

1.7

4:04

1.2

9:52

-0.3

9:20

0.6

7:35

7:38

-0.2

6:04

2:18

1.7

6:23

Wed

Thu

12:45

16

0.5

7:36

7:41

18

4:11

1.3

10:18

-0.2

9:59

0.4

7:33

7:39

0.0

6:45

1.7

1.9

6:46

3:03

2.3

12:55

Thu

Fri

12:20

17

0.2

7:35

7:41

19

Sat

1:05

2.2

1:10

2.1

7:09

0.2

7:28

0.0

7:33

7:42

18

Fri

3:46

1.7

4:21

1.4

10:41

0.0

10:40

0.2

7:32

7:39

20

Sun

1:54

2.0

1:31

2.3

7:30

0.5

8:16

-0.2

7:32

7:42

19

Sat

4:31

1.6

4:36

1.5

11:04

0.2

11:23

0.0

7:31

7:40

21

Mon

2:49

1.8

1:56

2.5

7:49

0.8

9:10

-0.4

7:31

7:43

20

Sun

5:20

1.5

4:57

1.7

11:25

0.4

7:30

7:40

Tue

3:57

1.5

2:27

2.6

8:03

1.0

10:15

-0.4

7:30

7:44

Mon

6:15

1.3

5:22

1.8

12:11

-0.2

11:44A

22

21

0.6

7:29

7:41

23

5:43

1.2

3:05

2.7

7:53

1.2

11:36

-0.4

7:29

7:44

Tue

7:23

1.1

5:53

1.9

1:05

-0.3

11:58A

Wed

22

0.7

7:28

7:41

24

3:54

2.7

7:28

7:45

Wed

9:09

0.9

6:31

2.0

2:10

-0.3

11:48A

Thu

23

0.9

7:27

7:42

25

Fri

5:03

2.5

1:09

-0.4

7:27

7:45

24

Thu

7:20

2.0

3:31

-0.3

7:26

7:42

26

Sat

6:49

2.4

2:36

-0.5

7:26

7:46

25

Fri

8:29

1.9

5:04

-0.3

7:25

7:43

27

Sun

12:18P

1.6

8:39

2.4

3:42

-0.5

2:13

1.6

7:24

7:46

26

Sat

10:15

1.8

6:31

-0.4

7:24

7:43

28

Mon

12:04P

1.7

10:00

2.4

4:33

-0.5

3:50

1.3

7:23

7:47

27

Sun

3:44

1.2

7:37

-0.4

6:08

1.2

7:22

7:44

29

Tue

12:08P

1.7

11:01

2.4

5:12

-0.4

4:49

0.9

7:22

7:47

28

Mon

12:05

1.8

3:30

1.2

8:28

-0.4

7:45

1.0

7:21

7:44

30

Wed

12:17P

1.9

11:54

2.3

5:43

-0.1

5:37

0.6

7:21

7:48

29

Tue

1:26

1.8

3:34

1.3

9:07

-0.3

8:44

0.7

7:20

7:45

31

Thu

12:26

2.0

6:08

0.1

6:20

0.3

7:20

7:48

30

Wed

2:27

1.7

3:43

1.4

9:38

-0.1

9:32

0.4

7:19

7:45

31

Thu

3:20

1.7

3:52

1.5

10:03

0.1

10:15

0.2

7:18

7:46

Moon

DESTINATION ANYWHERE

For More Information Visit SunshineAce.com San Carlos | (239) 415-1161

18911 S Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, FL 33908

Port Charlotte | (941) 627-5558

3035 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte, FL 33952

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | MARCH 2022 | FORT MYERS 9

Fish of Florida, Gag Grouper!

By: Michael Sipos, UF IFAS Sea Grant Agent

F

Gag Grouper, aka, Mycteroperca microlepis

lorida state record and International Game and Fish Association world record: 80 pounds, 6 ounces, caught in Destin, Florida Gag grouper are a popular fish in the recreational and commercial fishing sectors making them among the more valuable species in the southeastern United States.

Prized for their excellent food and game qualities, anglers typically target harvestable-size fish around artificial reefs, natural limestone ledges and rocky bottom in depths from 20 to 500 feet.

Gags live in a wide area, from Massachusetts to Brazil, although they’re more commonly spotted from the Carolinas down to the Yucatan. Juvenile gags tend to inhabit inshore areas such as seagrass beds, mangrove roots and bridge pilings. As they grow, they tend to migrate farther offshore. Gags and other grouper within the Mycteroperca genus dine largely on fish and some invertebrates, with that food preference flipped for their cousins the red grouper and other members of Epinephelus grouper.

Females spawn multiple times during a season and can release anywhere from 60,000 to 1.7 million eggs at a time. These eggs are buoyant and hatch in about 45 hours, and newly hatched grouper stay in larval form for 40-50 days.

The scientific name for gag grouper, Mycteroperca microlepis is derived from Greek and can be translated to “nose perch, small scales.”

This species can go by a few common names, and in areas of high species overlap, gags are often verbally or visually misidentified with

SA FOR

LE

other grouper. Small gags are often called “grass grouper” while larger specimens go by “rusty bellies” or even “black grouper” due the darker color that may be on the bottom and fin edges of large fish.

This can get confusing as there is a species of grouper with the common name of “black grouper” (Mycteroperca bonaci) which is the gag’s more tropical cousin. In areas where gags and blacks overlap, black grouper often are referred to as “carbos” or “true” black grouper. Side by side, it can be easy to distinguish one from the other, but when looking at an individual, identification may be more difficult.

Gag grouper are often greyer or olive in color, with less-pronounced markings along their sides. Black grouper have small burnt-orange spots throughout the body that may be more noticeable around the face, which gags lack. The preopercle (bone midline of the entire gill plate) on gag grouper are notched/serrated, while a black grouper’s preopercle is smooth.

It’s important to be able to properly identify these two very similar species as regulations between the gag and black grouper may vary between season and coasts.

Michael Sipos is the Florida Sea Grant agent for UF/IFAS Extension Collier County. Contact him at sipos624@ufl.edu. For more fishy content and updates on upcoming educational programs, please check out the Collier County Sea Grant Facebook page, YouTube Channel, Instagram listing or Michael Sipos’ UF/IFAS blog.

g n i h s i F

Your Fishing Adventure Florida Awaits! Southwest Fishing Excursions

1999 HENRIQUES Sportfisher Twin Turbocharged 200hp Volvos, 1445 hours.

Expertly maintained. USCG documented.

Tuna tower, Rupp outriggers, full galley, stand up head, VBerth, new side/back curtains & upholstery. New turbos/water pumps, 22k cruise@12 GPH. $65,000.

Chasertoo@icloud.com

INSHORE CHARTER FISHING USCG Certified • Private Tours

Book Today! 954.422.3479 MakeAWakeCharters@gmail.com Multiple pick up locations available

www.MakeAWakeFishing.com

10 FORT MYERS | MARCH 2022 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | MARCH 2022 | FORT MYERS 11

K

Kayak Clothing By: Dan Carns

ayaking and Kayak fishing are relatively easy and laidback as far as sports go but being unprepared can have serious consequences. The most obvious is a first aid kit and a way to contact someone for help but proper clothing can be equally important in terms of personal safety. Over the years I’ve worn and carried all kinds of clothing but have adopted a look that many of you have seen; that sort of goofy fisherman look, floppy hat, long baggy pants and long sleeve shirt with a fishing logo, not out of style but out of necessity.

First and foremost are a pair of fast dry, SPF (Sun Protection Factor) pants. These are likely to have a zipper at the knees so you can undo them and turn them into shorts when it gets to hot but be mindful of the sun as the whole reason for long pants is to protect you from the

• Kayaks & Paddleboards • Fishing Charters • Rentals & Lessons • Guided Eco Tours

harmful effects of the sun. I have seen to many clients suffer for hours under a beautiful but searing sun smearing sunscreen on them trying to block out the suns U.V. rays. Shorts are perfectly fine for strolling around town on a fine day but when kayaking your knees and legs are fully exposed with no escape from the heat.

Even if your new to kayak fishing you’ve seen the countless variety of SPF fishing shirts. Every store and tackle shop carry these shirts in S.W. Florida and in every fishing community across the country. There are basically two styles, the rash guard style designed by the surfing community so many years ago to stop skin rash under a wetsuit but now worn by countless beach goers and boaters. The other style is preferred buy the boating community and is a baggy, button down style with pockets, tool loops and may have venting across the back and under the arms. I use both and sometimes both together if the day starts out chilly but is forecast to become warm. My preference is a rash guard with long sleeves for the full coverage sun protection but also for the warmth these shirts provide. These are also quick drying as you will get wet in a kayak especially if you’re having a great day of fishing!

Next is some kind of hat and while a ball cap will help protect the top of your head, a floppy, full coverage brim will keep the sun off of your ears. Yes, these hats are a little goofy looking but work the best. Straw hats are another good option, just look for one that has an SPF rating.

Also consider using a neck buff to help reduce sun exposure. If you plan on getting out of your kayak or fall from your kayak in S.W. Florida you must have protective foot wear or the oyster shells here will tear you open. Use sunscreen on your exposed skin but DO NOT get sunscreen on your fishing gear! It’s A Wild World-Get Out There!

@paddlinandfishin | gulfcoastkayak.com | 239-283-1125

• Kayak Fishing Trips • Waterfront Retail location • Dolphin & Manatee Tours • Families Welcome

239-283-1125 www.GulfCoastKayak.com 4120 Pine Island Rd NW Matlacha, FL 33993 12 FORT MYERS | MARCH 2022 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

You Can Trust Your Local Mastry Suzuki RePower Center – It Simply Makes Sense With 13 Locations Across Florida There is a Mastry Suzuki RePower Center Near You In Fort Myers and Cape Coral - Calusa Certified Marine is your certified Mastry Suzuki RePower Center

Calusa Certified Marine 1023 SE 12th Avenue | Cape Coral, FL 33990 239-574-5053 Calusa Certified Marine provides high-quality, low-cost, convenient comprehensive services to all boaters with experienced, knowledgeable, factory certified technicians. Calusa Certified Marine offers full marine service and relies on teamwork and respect to guide decisions and actions, doing things right the first time with enthusiasm!

When Considering A Repower, Consider These Factors: • Calusa Certified Marine has decades of repower experience providing proper rigging, controls, propeller matching and in water testing • With a Mastry Suzuki RePower owners gain improved performance, less noise and greater reliability • Options that will fit most any budget, financing available • Mastry Suzuki RePower’s exclusive Owner’s Edge Program* • All Suzuki RePowers come with Suzuki’s 5-years of protection

REPOWER THE ALTERNATIVE TO BUYING A NEW BOAT *Get with the Program!

When you purchase a new Suzuki outboard from an authorized Mastry RePower Center you qualify to become a member of the Mastry Suzuki Owner’s Edge. Owners receive an identification card that provides them with important information about their Suzuki outboard motor as well as a passport to additional benefits during ownership. Members enjoy a detailed engine maintenance schedule, Mastry Suzuki RePower Trade Program and special pricing from Mastry Suzuki Partners.

suzukirepower.com | 1-800-545-4574 FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | MARCH 2022 | FORT MYERS 13

“Old Florida” Marinas By: Mike Hammond

T

here are still a few “Old Florida” marinas out there. Places where people who make their living on the water hangout with tourists, friendly dogs are welcome, and the nautical antiques were actually new when nailed to the wall. One of these places is the Mullock Creek Marina, located just off 41 in the San Carlos area. Many paddlers are not even aware of this launch.

Launch fees are accessed at $10 per parked vehicle. This is great for families like mine who usually have one vehicle and several paddlecraft. Live bait, ice, snacks and bottled water is available for purchase

before paddling. Other beverages are available for when you’re done paddling. We launched from the concrete boat ramp since the water was a little too low to use the dock.

It is a little less than a two-mile paddle from the marina to the point where Mullock and Hendry Creeks meet and empty into the northeast corner of Estero Bay. There are several little lagoons, unnamed creeks, and sandbars to explore within a mile of the launch. We turned up the first fairly wide side creek and followed it until the creek narrowed to the point a sea kayak could not turn around. Several species of herons and egrets were spotted along the way.

Mullock Creek is a wide mangrove lined open creek with almost no canopy. Plan for direct sun for most of the paddle. Also, the creek has blind spots and smaller boat traffic. Although the speed zone is slow all year, be prepared to get to the side of the creek if you hear a boat approaching.

After your paddle there is a covered pavilion with tables, outdoor bar, corn hole and Bimini ring game setup at the marina. There is also a grassy area with a hose nearby to rinse off your yaks. It was nice for the kids to have things to do while I loaded the gear.

The Old Florida marinas and fish camps seem to be disappearing quickly and I was recently told the Mullock Creek Marina is for sale.

Who knows the future of this funky waterside hangout? All I know for sure is we can launch there now and we plan on taking advantage of it for as long as possible!

CalusaBlueway.com 14 FORT MYERS | MARCH 2022 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

where tours were MullMany

eat for ddlecchase

done water

point theast reeks, up the wed to erons

ost no ek has s slow a boat

tdoor s also ce for

earing r sale. ow for e of it

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | MARCH 2022 | FORT MYERS 15

unday in ing a S Bass. y jo n e ith ker Paul Sm al w/ this lun v o d n Sa

Tim Mollenhauer from NY landed this 150-200lb Sandbar Shark with a ladyfish chunk at Redfish Pass.

Gene fr om P week a A was visiting nd c last red fish aught a 31" in Venic e.

Caden Scot Davezac caught this guy in the south jetty, Venice, Florida, & threw him back!!

Father and son fishing Sarasota Bay w/ Capt. Todd Walker.

George Peters w/ a nice sheepshead from Bonita Springs.

ingfish sunset k e! is th David Garutti from NY caught this y b ous ed s surpris e Sanibel Lighth a nice Blacktip Shark while chunking w a r a S of th ladyfish at Redfish Pass. offshore

Vince G amb w/ a be ino of Cape Co autiful r edfish! ral

Photos submitted Courtesy of Coastal Angler Readers and Contributing Writers Submit pics to: camswfl@gmail.com or text to 239.595.8265

BOATHOUSE Discount Marine Supplies

Marine Supplies

OEM Marine Parts

Jacksonville

Locations Same Low Prices

Melbourne

Certified Service Department

Authorized OEM Marine Engine & Parts Dealer Trailer Parts

Trailer Sales

• AUTOMOTIVE • COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL

CTX NANO-CERAMIC TINT •SUPERIOR HEAT REJECTION MELBOURNE •ENHANCED STYLE 557 N. HARBOR CITY BLVD •99% UV PROTECTION MELBOURNE, FL 32935

(321) 254-2535

JACKSONVILLE

5615 BLANDING BLVD. JACKSONVILLE, FL 32244

(904) 778-7775

BoathouseDiscountMarine.com

*LIFETIME WARRANTY 16 BREVARD

JANUARY 2019

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM

THE NEW POMPANO BEACH FISHER FAMILY PIER

I

’d heard good things, so on a recent Sunday morning I drove to Pompano to see all the work the city has done to improve the pier and the surrounding area. I was pleasantly surprised by how tasteful and inviting the results are so far.

Originally constructed in the early 1960s, the newly titled Fisher Family Pier now sports an up-to-date entrance comfortably showcased between two attractive oceanfront restaurants.

The whole waterfront area has been rebranded as the Pompano Beach Fishing Village. There’s a new visitor center and a six-story parking garage a short walk away on Pier Street (NE 2nd Avenue). Streetscape improvements along

By James P. Goss

Pompano Beach Boulevard include a bricked boardwalk, contemporary streetlights, and other eye-catching design elements.

The centerpiece continues to be the pier, revamped to resemble a fish: a pompano, of course.

At the pier’s eastern end, the rounded shape of the fish’s head features a mouth and an eye gazing southeast. In addition to new wood decking and railings, there are fish prep areas and built-in metal fishing rod holders. Blue sail awnings fly overhead. Artists’ renderings of tropical fish— kingfish, bluefin tuna, false albacore, pinfish, bottlenose dolphin, hammerhead sharks—pop up between the railings.

As I wandered the pier, a fisherman adjusting

his lure told me, “I usually get here around seven in the morning and leave around nine. I got here late today. If I catch anything, I’ll be lucky.”

As all anglers know, good fishing depends on a variety of fickle factors in addition to the time of day… or night. These include weather (cold fronts, prevailing winds), tides and currents, species’ particular habits and migration patterns.

Clear or murky water plays a role, as do reef features and ocean floor contours. Ocean health depends on a delicate balance: an adequate supply of nutrients, minimal pollution and species diversity—including the presence of apex predators like sharks.

Another angler had a line in near a small school of needlefish. Hoping to attract Spanish mackerel, he used a Got-Cha lure. He confided, “They like clear water when the air temperature is a little bit chilly.” Over the many years he’s fished the Pompano pier, he’s caught a lot of snapper and hooked three types of sharks: blacktip, reef and nurse. But he hasn’t seen too many pompano around lately. “They don’t like a city named after them,” he joked. In a more serious tone, he wondered about the effects of all the recent construction. To help address this type of environmental concern, contractors added structures to the ocean floor to augment the existing reef. Still, the fisherman said many popular South Florida fishing spots, including the Pompano Beach pier, are getting “fished out.”

The challenge of maintaining adequate stocks of fish is an ongoing concern the world over. Along with millions of dollars spent on physical upgrades to the pier itself, habitat work will hopefully ensure the fish keep showing up.

Business Opportunity Available

INTRODUCTORY OFFER

15,900

$

ALL FIBERGLASS CONSTRUCTION Standard Features

MARCH 2022

Designed for the Fisherman with the Family in Mind

C

S a

H

n

E

Factory Direct Molded Seats with Removable Cushions Cooler/Storage in Front of Console Cup Holders Vinyl Flooring Bimini Top 14 FLORIDA

Popp Craft Boats Introduces The All New Cattoon

M

Running and Docking Lights Boarding Ladder Four Cleats Port and Starboard Doors Standard Model 15’ Coming Soon 17’ Model

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

1323 MURPHY HWY., SUITE 6, BLAIRSVILLE, GA 30512 WWW.POPPCRAFTBOATS.COM POPPCRAFTBOATS@GMAIL.COM 706-400-2520

P

a

T C

© vo

Meet & Greet with Darcizzle!

Courtesy of HairClub

®

Sunday, March 27 11am - 3pm at the Palm Beach International Boat Show

HairClub offers proven solutions to help regrow and protect your hair from the natural elements like Darcie. Learn your personal Hair Mass Index and ask about

ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN! Enter for a chance to win a private fishing charter with Darcie “Darcizzle” Arahill, plus many exclusive prizes including a custom Darcizzle fishing cooler & more!

Scan the QR code for your chance to win or visit the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County, Inc. tent at the Palm Beach International Boat Show!

EXT Extreme Hair Therapy®; our proven in-center and in-home hair growth solution.

Plus receive Salon Cut and Style as well as an expert, personal hair growth coach assigned specifically to you.

To schedule your complimentary hair health checkup.

Call (800) 293-5641, visit hairclub.com/darcizzle to register ©2022 HairClub. All rights reserved. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO WIN. Open to 18+ residents of the contiguous U.S. and Washington, D.C. Promotion is void in Alaska, Hawaii and where prohibited. Promotion ends on 04/06/2022 at 11:59 p.m. EST. Subject to Official Rules at www.hairclub.com/darcizzle

Register by 04/06/2022

THE

’HOOS

ARE STILL OUT THERE

By CAM Staff

16 FLORIDA

MARCH 2022

W

ahoo are a favorite fish of any angler who has ever been hooked up to one. They are incredibly fast, sleek and powerful. The initial blistering run is enough to hook anyone. With line pouring off the reel, instinct begs you to stanch the flow. Just hold on. The fight is predictable.

After that run, the fish will most likely turn back to the boat, shaking its head to throw the hook. Then it’s a sprint to pick up line.

In the boat, the beauty of the fish will amaze you. Perfectly camouflaged in blue water, a wahoo’s silvery belly gives way to a dark blue back with undulating cobalt blue bars falling vertically down its sides. If you can look past that weird toothy beak, it is a gorgeous fish. Photos never do it justice, as the color fades as soon as you take them from the water.

What doesn’t fade is the excitement this species brings to the table. They are mackerel, but they don’t taste like it. Wahoo meat is snow white, firm and has a mild taste sometimes compared to albacore.

It’s a tremendous sportfish that travels in loose schools and sometimes feeds in packs. Find one and you’ll likely find several hanging and feeding near blue water structure. They move and feed with the bait, migrating to stay in the water temps they prefer, 70 degrees and higher.

Wahoo are notoriously unpredictable. They are streaky feeders, and might not eat unless time of day, tides and moon phases align just right.

Late winter is the best time to catch them off northeast Florida, when they will be feeding on the ledges with a bite that sometimes lasts into April. Expect decent numbers of fish from 35 to 60 pounds, and every year a few fish show up heavier than 80 pounds. Down in South Florida, wahoo can be found on the edge of the Gulf Stream, with peak fishing occurring late spring through summer. During that same time period, anglers in the Keys will be targeting smaller wahoo, averaging 25 pounds, on floating debris.

But arguably the best wahoo fishing in this part of the world is the Bahamas. Here there is a shot at triple-digit fish, and good numbers of fish in the 40-pound range are the norm. Winter is best from the northern Bahamas around the Abacos and farther south, around the San Salvador humps.

In the Gulf, wahoo season is also in winter, but winter brings with it foul weather. Early spring is a favorite time of many captains because the fish are still around and you can actually get to them. They’ll be hunting in packs and following baitfish. There’s a good chance at some 30- to 50-pounders this time of year, and 80- or 90-pound fish are not unheard of.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

2022

Week of June 22 - 26 ! nd

TH

Lake Worth

Bimini

A CHANCE TO BE A PART OF SOMETHING EPIC...

HELP SUPPORT FAMILIES AFFECTED BY CYSTIC FIBROSIS! All Boaters Welcome!

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

With preferences to multi-engine boats and offshore ocean experience

Transport participants & supplies to Bimini, Bahamas

Fuel Credit

Arrive in Bimini June 22nd-24th

Support and protect participants paddling from Bimini to Lake Worth Beach

Dock space

Depart Bimini Sat. June 25th Arrive Lake Worth Beach Sun. June 26th

Boater assistance* Lodging in Bimini Bahamian Tax Assistance *Amounts vary by boat.

For more information go to: www.crossingforcf.com or email our team at: boats.info@pipersangels.org COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

MARCH 2022

FLORIDA 17

OKEECHOBEE SHORTCUT CLOSED FOR REPAIRS

B

oaters making the trip between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico via the shortcut through Lake Okeechobee will be forced to take the long way around for the next couple months. The St. Lucie Lock and Dam was closed and dewatered for maintenance Jan. 4. The “Okeechobee shortcut” is expected to re-open by April.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville District also announced temporary closure of some recreational facilities at the St. Lucie Lock and Dam. The St. Lucie Visitor Center, lock observation decks and the St. Lucie North Recreation Area will be closed until the project is complete. The St. Lucie South Campground will remain open.

“The safety of our employees, volunteers and visitors remains our top priority. Equipment and materials are currently being staged at the St. Lucie Lock and Dam in preparation for the upcoming dewatering operation and lock repairs,” said Tammy Cleveland, deputy chief of the South Florida Operations.

“We know that the St. Lucie Lock and Dam is a very popular recreational area for the local community and visitors. This the first major maintenance to be performed on this lock in 26 years, and we apologize for any inconvenience during this temporary closure.”

According to Ed Killer, with Treasure Coast Newspapers, closure of the Okeechobee shortcut creates a roughly 320-mile detour around Florida’s southern tip for mariners travelling between the Atlantic and the Gulf. Last year, more than 3,000 boats passed through the St. Lucie Lock.

For more information, visit: www.saj.usace.army.mil/VisitorCenters/.

STHRCLUB.COM

SHRMARINA .COM

THE PERFECT ESCAPE IN THE HEART OF OLD FLORIDA

Book your dream getaway today at 352.498.3222 Coming Soon!

s t e i n h atc h e e m a r i n a at d e a dm a n bay SHOW THIS AD AT CHECK-IN FOR 10% OFF CABIN OR BOAT RENTAL!

18 FLORIDA

MARCH 2022

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

SEAWALL EROSION CONTROL SIGNS OF SEAWALL EROSION SAFE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT

1. Cracks in the seawall vertical panels or seawall cap 2. Depressions in your yard 3. Water bubbling up from the ground 4. Small sinkholes along the wall 5. Leaning or bowing of a seawall

Our Polyurethane Fills voids Seals cracks Strengthens soils

Free Estimates Free 2nd Opinions

Competitive Pricing Serving All of Florida

Experienced and Reputable Fully Licensed

Family Owned Guaranteed Work

“This company and its employees are awesome, can’t say enough nice things about them. Great job and neat and tidy!” - Kevin O.

888.426.1002 www.FloridaSeawallSolutions.com

#CBC1255391

PHOTO COURTESY Eric Henson

2952

COOLING PERFORMANCE $ LONG SLEEVE CREW

2

Fr Ya jus

Special Regs for West Coast Inshore Fisheries

H

ere’s a reminder, special regulations are in effect for inshore fisheries in a chunk of Florida’s west coast due to red tides. The following regulations apply for all state waters south of State Road 64 in Manatee County, including Palma Sola Bay through Gordon Pass in Collier County, but not including the Braden River or any tributaries of the Manatee River.

Snook: Catch and release only through May 31, 2022.

Redfish: Catch and release only through May 31, 2022.

Spotted Seatrout: Six-fish recreational vessel limit. Commercial harvesters will also be held to the recreational three-fish bag and six-fish vessel limits.

For more information, go to MyFWC.com.

GREAT FISHING!

WHERE THE SUWANNEE & STEINHATCHEE RIVERS MEET THE GULF OF MEXICO

B

2538

SHORT SLEEVE 100% COTTON $ POCKET T-SHIRT

coastalanglermag.com/store

YOU CAN ALWAYS FIND A BOAT RAMP

DIXIE COUNTY VISITDIXIE.COM

20 FLORIDA

MARCH 2022

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

21 FEET OF AWESOME

From award winning new handling technology to Yamaha’s most premium feature set, the 212SD is not just a class leader, it’s in a class all of its own.

™

2021 Yamaha Marine 212SD Starting MSRP $63,799*

Black with Blue

White with Seude Gray

SHOP OUR FULL LINE UP OF YAMAHA BOATS

! p i h s r e n w O Under New Beach Blvd Motorsports is now: 10315 Beach Boulevard Jacksonville, FL 32246 904-328-7651 | www.ridenowbeachblvd.com

Get on the water at www.ridenowmarine.com *Manufacturer’s suggested retail price does not include freight, delivery, prep and other dealer fees. Pricing is subject to change.

To Introduce You to Spring in the Keys

T

he transition into spring can be unpredictable, as it brings dramatic changes to the fishery and obeys no written calendar.

Migration, water temperatures and spawning create unique variables this time of year.

As the exchange of targeted species swings from winter to spring, each day can be an opportunity to pioneer the new season. The fishery can change overnight in the coming weeks, and you never know when you will stumble across an abundance of fish that haven’t been seen in months.

The Florida Keys, this month, will see more permit, cobia and pompano, while also welcoming the start of our world-class tarpon fishery.

During the seasonal transition, there will be an overlap, when iconic spring species, such as permit and tarpon, will be chewing along with the sailfish that favor the shallow reefs in winter.

Permit harvest season closes in the Keys at the end of March. Although the permit is respected as a game fish, and socially encouraged to be released, it does yield fillets of decent size and of excellent tablefare.

Targeting permit can be a little more of a challenge than your average “send-out-the-shrimp” fishing. Whether you are sight casting to a school of them or floating a crab over a wreck, their bite is a

G3 Sportsman 1810

little bit different than most fish.

For a drag-screaming, hard-fighting fish, such as the mighty permit, one might expect them to crush the bait with force. However, permit can suck a hook clean, like a ninja cowfish, without drawing much attention.

Learning their bite, especially when freelining in heavy current, can take a bit of practice, but it is absolutely worth the investment.

Targeting this species offers a little extra for the angler who has it all. They definitely aren’t top of the beginner’s list, but they absolutely should be top of the bucket list.

Crabs are king for permit fishing.

Hook a crab on the edge of its shell, avoiding any interference with its back two legs, the swimmerets, so that it can move naturally in the water.

Sight casting can be productive with a crab on a jighead, but if you just want to soak a crab over a wreck while fishing for other species, skip the jighead and affix a float up the leader. Put the float as far up the leader as you can stand to have it for casting, and I mean the standing-on-the-bow, swinging-the-momentum-like-you’re-fly fishing kind of casting. Combat different current scenarios by adding split-shot to the leader.

G3 20 Bay series

No matter what time of year, the Florida Keys always have an incredible fishery.

Each day can produce once-in-a-lifetime sightings of epic species. It is worth noting that regardless of weather, season, time of day, bananas on the boat, or a small zombie apocalypse, the snapper are always snapping!

Quinlyn Haddon captains boats with Blue Magic Charters, in Marathon, Florida.

Call her at (504) 920-6342 and check her out on social media @captainquinlyn.

G3 Suncatcher V22F

MAKING MEMORIES FOR A LIFETIME!!!

100 N.E 23rd Avenue, Gainesville FL 32609 • 352-372-4900 22 FLORIDA

MARCH 2022

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

Cast away.

If you were to make a movie about being marooned on an island with the world’s greatest fishing, The Florida Keys & Key West would have a starring role. Because from the Gulf Stream to the Dry Tortugas to the Everglades backcountry, the fishing in The Keys can only be described as epic. Final scene? You’re back on dry land, with live music, waterfront dining and a luxury suite. Roll credits. fla-keys.com 1.800.fla.keys

MCTG-5402 Coastal Angler LO1 • March 2022

0 & 15 Degree Models Available!

Additional Charge for Custom Engraving.

BOAT INSURANCE SINKING YOU?

HOOKER ELECTRIC

Flush Mount Rod Holders

SAVE

50%Insurance

up to

WITH SWIVEL BASE

Hooker Electric’s custom flush mount rod holders feature a wide and low profile cap for easy mounting. They are manufactured from heavy duty 316 stainless steel - these are built to last!

Purchase includes a back plate support and eyelet connector for a tether to secure your electric reel safely.

Get the

LOWEST Rates!

BOATS & $37,000 $75,000 JETSKI From: $264/yr $474/yr

$100,000 $250,000 $500,000 $586/yr $2,975/yr $5,985/yr

GET A QUOTE! (888) 977-4500 (954) 785-5000

855.HOOK.ONE

BoatInsuranceFlorida.com Bradley Insurance Group

LOCAL: 954-530-6908 HOOKERELECTRIC.COM

5094 NE 12th Avenue, Oakland Park, FL 33334 contact: sales@hookerelectric.com

on Boat

Covering Boaters throughout the south since 1988

Your #1 Source for Boat Insurance

www.NoblesMarine.com Family Owned & Operated for 45 Years

Leesburg 352787-5792 437 N Palmetto St. Leesburg 24 FLORIDA

MARCH 2022

Largest Ship Store in Lake & Sumter Counties

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

Crystal River 352795-1119 1931 NW Hwy 19 Crystal River

eeding great e ideal nsition deadly m and a slow ates a strike. in the lumn. hem to to do

The U.S. Mint Just Struck Morgan Silver Dollars for the First Time in 100 Years!

ITiEntD! VSEolRd OYutLaItM the M

month, h high ts still havoc

often, attern. more d do in n here. dletail nking

colors

will be ut the

ckin

Actual size is 38.1 mm

I

t’s been more than 100 years since the last Morgan Silver Dollar was struck for circulation. With a well-earned reputation as the coin that helped build the Wild West, preferred by cowboys, ranchers, outlaws as the “hard currency” they wanted in their saddle bags, the Morgan is one of the most revered, most-collected vintage U.S. Silver Dollars ever.

Struck in 90% silver from 1878 to 1904, then again in 1921, these silver dollars came to be known by the name of their designer, George T. Morgan. They were also nicknamed “cartwheels” because of their large weight and size.

Celebrating the 100th Anniversary with Legal Tender Morgans

Honoring the 100th anniversary of the last year the Morgan Silver Dollar was minted, the U.S. Mint struck five different versions in 2021, paying tribute to each of the mints that struck the coin. The coins here honor the historic New Orleans Mint, a U.S. Mint branch from 1838–1861 and again from 1879–1909.

These coins, featuring an “O” privy mark, a small differentiating mark, were struck in Philadelphia since the New Orleans Mint no longer exists. These beautiful coins are differO PRIVY MARK ent than the originals for two reasons. First,

they’re struck in 99.9% fine silver instead of the 90% silver/10% copper of the originals. And second, these Morgans were struck using modern technology, serving to highlight the details of the iconic design even more than the originals.

Very Limited. Sold Out at the Mint!

The U.S. Mint limited the production of these gorgeous coins to just 175,000, a ridiculously low number. Not surprisingly, they sold out almost instantly! That means you need to hurry to add these bright, shiny, new legal-tender Morgan Silver Dollars with the New Orleans privy mark, struck in 99.9% PURE Silver, to your collection. Call 1-888-395-3219 to secure yours now. PLUS, you’ll receive a BONUS American Collectors Pack, valued at $25 FREE with your order. Call now. These won’t last!

FREE SHIPPING! Limited time only.

Standard domestic shipping only.

Not valid on previous purchases.

w.

To learn more, call no ! ed rv se t rs fi ll, First ca

Call today toll-free for fastest service

1-888-395-3219 Offer Code NSD140-01 Please mention this code when you call.

SPECIAL CALL-IN ONLY OFFER

GovMint.com • 1300 Corporate Center Curve, Dept. NSD140-01, Eagan, MN 55121 GovMint.com® is a retail distributor of coin and currency issues and is not affiliated with the U.S. government. The collectible coin market is unregulated, highly speculative and involves risk. GovMint.com reserves the right to decline to consummate any sale, within its discretion, including due to pricing errors. Prices, facts, figures and populations deemed accurate as of the date of publication but may change significantly over time. All purchases are expressly conditioned upon your acceptance of GovMint.com’s Terms and Conditions (www. govmint.com/terms-conditions or call 1-800-721-0320); to decline, return your purchase pursuant to GovMint.com’s Return Policy. © 2022 GovMint.com. All rights reserved.

®

A+

MARCH IS THE TURN-AROUND MONTH

The early part of the month will feature very cold water temps around the inlets and river mouths, and keep the trout, drum (redfish) and flounder a little on the sluggish side, but that doesn’t seem to bother the shad, rock and cats. As a matter of fact, it kicks them into overdrive.

It’s not water temperature so much as it is the length of daylight in the beginning of the month, but water temps do come into play by the end Tim Barefoot of March.

The end of March will see the big spawning female speckled trout his has been a winter for the books, with cold temps, constant wind and sometimes too much rain keeping us arriving at the inlets and river mouths, and the drum bite will be on from the offshore grounds weekend after weekend. In light of fire. This is the time of year when you stand to catch an egg-filled gator trout, but for goodness sakes, take some this, let’s talk about some of the things that brought a lot of good photos and dimensions/weight us to the dance, the anadromous fish that are coming home and let her go do her spawn. This can be in the month of March. the time of year for some great topwater/ If you live on the East Coast, white and hickory shad, popping cork trout and drum bites. striped bass and sturgeon are coming back to the place There are bites, then there are topwater they were born to spawn. March is traditionally a very bites. It’s exciting fishing to say the least. windy month, so on the days we can’t get offshore, there is March will also produce tuna, a safe haven up in the river for some entertainment. Truly, dolphin and wahoo when you can get some of the best to them. The wind will keep us inside memories I have a lot during March, but whenever the were made up seas lay down enough to get offshore, the river. While go for it. This can be the time to catch a not the best stud wahoo and numbers of tuna. Find table fare, white a temperature break and/or the bait, and and hickory you’ll find the wahoo and tuna. They are shad are right on the move and chewing. up there at I don’t care what the wind is doing, I the top of the can always find somewhere to get a bite entertainment and grin in this turn-around month we list. Other fish call March. that have always been at the top See more from Capt. Tim Barefoot of my favorite spring entertainment list are striped bass (rock) and blue at barefootcatsandtackle.com catfish. They come back to the upper reaches of the river to spawn in and rigandjig.com. large numbers.

T

KEEP IT GENUINE PRECISION PROTECTION

Whether you take your boat out to the lake or the ocean, your 4-stroke outboard needs ECSTAR Suzuki Semi-Synthetic Engine Oil so it can run long and strong.

ECSTAR features special additives that protect the engine in harsh salt and fresh water environments, advanced detergents that keep engine parts clean, and viscosity index improvements that help the engine start in cold conditions.

No matter where your next boat ride takes you, go confidently with ECSTAR.

RUN LONG. RUN CLEAN. RUN STRONG.

Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-Approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. Suzuki, the Suzuki “S” ECSTAR and Suzuki model and product names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. © 2021 Suzuki Marine USA, LLC.

14 NATIONAL

MARCH 2022

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

temps dfish) bother rdrive. in the he end

d trout be on d gator some weight can be water/ bites. pwater e least. tuna, an get inside er the shore, atch a . Find it, and ey are

oing, I a bite nth we

oot

The red boats of TowBoatU.S. are on your waterways and ready to go at a moment’s notice when you need assistance. We boat where you boat so no matter where you take your crew, TowBoatU.S. will be there for you.

Getting You Back Safely is Our #1 Goal 800-395-2628 BoatUS.com/Towing

Details of services provided can be found online at BoatUS.com/Agree. TowBoatU.S. is not a rescue service.In an emergency situation, you must contact the Coast Guard or a government agency immediately.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

MARCH 2022

NATIONAL 15

PHOTO BY SEIGO SAITO/B.A.S.S.

At Hartwell, Stage is Set for 2022 Bassmaster Classic

By TAM Staff

F

or months the field has been set for the big show. From March 4-6, some of the world’s top professional bass anglers will fish South Carolina’s Lake Hartwell, vying for a championship in the 2022 Bassmaster Classic.

Upstate South Carolina will play host to the field of 55 professional anglers as well as hordes of fans, who will attend daily weigh-ins at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville and morning takeoffs at Green Pond Landing & Event Center, near Anderson. The annual Bassmaster

Classic Outdoors Expo will take place each day at the Greenville Convention Center.

As for the fishing, Hartwell is familiar to the anglers. The 2022 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk will mark the fourth time the tournament has been held on the 56,000-acre reservoir. The fishery is renowned for excellent spotted and largemouth bass fishing.

Early March is typically a transition period on upstate lakes, when bass begin moving up in preparation for the spawn. Weather will have

SPRINGTIME FISHING...

www.

everything to do with how successful anglers will fish.

The two normal patterns that set up that time of year are either a deeper bite on ditches and points in 30 to 60 feet of water, or a shallower bite when bass move up into the 5- to 20-foot range to stage next to the spawning flats. The prespawn bite can provide excellent numbers of fish as well as some solid size, which could potentially produce fast action and heavy sacks for Classic competitors.

Lake Hartwell’s bass eat a lot of blueback herring, and Hartwell tournaments are responsible for the rise of the underspin as popular bass lure.

If the fish are deep, it’s likely underspins, shaky heads and football jigs will see a lot of time in the water. If fish are shallow, jerkbaits, jigs and red crankbaits are Hartwell staples.

Each of the three previous Classics have provided action-packed finishes. In 2008, Texas pro Alton Jones Sr. went into the final day with little more than a pound lead, but managed to hold off the rest of the field and claim his only Classic trophy. In 2015, when temperatures dipped as low as 9 degrees, hometown favorite Casey Ashley, of South Carolina, came from behind on the final day to win his only title.

Then in 2018, young Alabama pro Jordan Lee jumped from sixth place on the final day to win his second-straight Classic. Fans turned out in droves for all three visits, creating an electric atmosphere for the weigh-ins and packing the Expo all three days.

For information on fishing Upcountry South Carolina, visit FishUpcountrySC.com.

.com

LET’S GO! 25’ C-Hawk CC

www.MitziSkiffs.com • www.CHawkBoats.net CALL FOR YOUR NEAREST DEALER 16 NATIONAL

MARCH 2022

252-235-2461

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

rs will

t time es and llower 0-foot The preof fish ntially Classic

ueback nsible s lure. shaky in the nd red

Notes from the field:

BERN NOTICE O

n paper, I was in Switzerland to ski the Alps and eat my weight in fondue. According to some, I was actually there to keep an eye out for Karloff, a rival spy who’d been attempting to rip off a Swiss bank.

Walking through Bern’s picturesque Old City, passing Einstein’s house,

have Texas y with ged to s only atures avorite from y title. n Lee to win out in lectric ng the

I noticed that I was being followed by a dark figure in a trench coat.

No matter how I zigged and zagged through the old cobblestone streets, I couldn’t shake him. Finally, I turned a corner and quickly ducked into an old watch shop.

The place looked like it had been there for ages, as did the shopkeeper.

Taking me for a customer, the shopkeeper began giving me the full story on why Swiss-made watches are renowned the world over.

In 1971, he said, rules were established mandating that any timepiece bearing the “Swiss-made” hallmark must have its mechanics, casing and final inspection take place in Switzerland. Swiss watches are built to last several lifetimes.

I smiled, because I knew only Stauer can build Swiss-made watches without it costing a fortune. Now you can also enjoy the precision and accuracy of a Swiss-made sports watch with a moveable bezel. Introducing the Pride of Bern Watch, a timepiece built to keep pace with the underworld of spies. The first time we offered this watch it sold out in TWO DAYS. Finally back in stock after six months, supplies of this quality Swiss-made timepiece are still limited. Get your hands on it before we run out again!

uth

“A Swiss-made watch at this quality under $200 is an unbeliveable value!” — George Thomas Rendered in black and gold with a precision Swiss movement and a date complication at 3 o’clock, this watch is a steal of a deal that Karloff would love to get his hands on. — Jack B. Watch Specifications: • Precision Swiss movement • Stainless steel caseback and bracelet • 43 mm case diameter • Date magnifier lens at 3 o’clock • Water resistant to 3 ATM • Fits wrists to 8"

StauelerPrice ®

ImpossibLY ON

$199

Swiss-Made Pride of Bern Watch $499 $199* + S&P *Special price only for customers using the offer code.

1-800-333-2045

Your Insider Offer Code: PBW148-01

Stauer, 14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. PBW148-01, Burnsville, MN 55337 www.stauer.com

Stauer® |

AFFORD THE EXTRAORDINARY

®

BUSINESS

GAUGESAVER CAN SAVE YOU MONEY!

F

rom humble beginnings in a home office five years ago, GaugeSaver has flourished on word-of-mouth and happy customers.

The company has found great, hardworking friends to help the business grow, and a year ago expanded into a commercial property at 5049 Hwy 17-S in Green Cove Springs, Fla. They fixed up a 1,500-square-foot building for a main office and technician space, and recently constructed a 2,500-square-foot rigging shop. The plan is to grow into this space and offer electronic installs, repairs, etc.

Happy customers are the key to GaugeSaver’s growth. Eric Clayton and his wife Tammy believe in their service so much that they both left 25-plus-year IT careers to grow the brand. They now do more than just gauge restorations.

They remanufacture replacement parts for Yamaha, Mercury and Suzuki gauges. They restore LCDs for many devices and most major manufacturers including Garmin, Raymarine, Furuno, Simrad, iCOM, Volvo, Honda, Humminbird, SeaDoo, Kawasaki, and more. They can restore almost anything that has an LCD. This includes VHFS, Chartplotters, AutoPilots, Jet Skis and Side-By-Sides.

GaugeSaver can even replace LCD assemblies with aftermarket or OEM parts to keep electronics out of landfills. GaugeSaver was founded to extend the lifespan of electronics and save people money. Every week they are learning new ways to do so.

They offer Dealer Discounts for friends in the industry. Check out Gaugesaver.com (or drop by and meet the shop dog, Jeb) to see if WWW.GAUGESAVER.COM GaugeSaver can save you money!

18 NATIONAL

MARCH 2022

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

AndAlusiA MArine & powersports inc.

Headquarters For All your Boating needs Xpress •

1707 River Falls Street, Andalusia, AL 36421

Alweld •

(334) 427-1428

stingrAy • VerAndA • Quest

All kinds of parts and accessories in stock and ready for delivery!

Innertubes • Ski’s • Wakeboards Ropes • Life jackets Solas and Michigan Wheel Props

certified full line YAmAhA deAler!

GreAt service!

• Humminbird • Garmin • Lowrance • Minnkota - authorized sales and service center • Rhodan • Certified Full Line Yamaha Dealer

www.andalusiamarine.com www.facebook.com/andalusiamarine

Unlimited Fishing Range NEW Sea Eagle® PaddleSki™ 437ps

With the new inflatable PaddleSki™ 473ps kayak you can go 17 mph with a 6 hp outboard and motor 70 miles on just a 3 gallon tank of gas. That means this unique catamaran kayak can get you to fishing spots that no other fishing kayak can get to! And when you get there, you can fish in ways no other fishing kayak can...you can stand up and cast with the sure knowledge that you are stable and safe. You can sit for hours fishing on the swivel seat and enjoy 360° views in total comfort.

GET TO THE FISH!

The Return of a

800-944-7496 For a FREE Catalog • SeaEagle.com for info

Dept. CS032B, 19 N Columbia St., Ste 1, Port Jefferson, NY 11777

Custom Built Quality Outdoor BBQ Products Since 1989

Pig Cookers, Patio Grills, Smokers, Customized BBQ Trailers

For More Info 1-252-236-4464 www.BQGRILLS.com 6043 Hwy 301N, Elm City, NC 20 NATIONAL

MARCH 2022

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

DEXTER SURGE ACTUATORS

D

exter’s complete line of surge actuators are highly engineered, easy to use, and go through rigorous testing to ensure that you get to your destination safely.

Available in capacities from 6,600 lbs. to 20,000 lbs. in both disc brake and drum brake varieties, Dexter surge actuators provide smooth and powerful operation. All you need to do is replace the trailer’s standard tongue coupler with a surge actuator and add hydraulic brake end units. The “surge” or “push” of the trailer toward the tow vehicle during deceleration automatically synchronizes the trailer brakes with the tow vehicle brakes.

As the trailer pushes against the tow vehicle, the actuator compresses and applies force to its master cylinder, which supplies hydraulic pressure to the trailer’s brakes.

As a trusted leader in the Marine Industry, Dexter also outfitted its surge actuators with corrosion-resistant rollers and bushings to create smoother movements and added longevity. Tow with WWW.DEXTERAXLE.COM confidence – Demand Dexter!

MAINTENANCE-FREE TOWING www.dexteraxle.com

Dexter’s Vault® and Vortex® marine axle lubrication systems are rigorously engineered to keep the water out and your bearings lubricated. Also, there is no annual maintenance required. Confidently backed by our industry-leading 6-year/100,000-mile warranty.

Spend your time on the water, not working on your trailer.

Demand Dexter Vault & Vortex hubs for your boat trailer.

Photo Courtesy of AmeraTrail COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

MARCH 2022

NATIONAL 21

WILD SALMON THREATENED BY INTERBREEDING WITH FARMED FISH

I

nterbreeding between farmed salmon and wild populations in Norway is changing the lifecycle of wild salmon, according to a report from the website Phys.org.

Researchers with the Norwegian Institute for Nature Research and Rådgivende Biologer studied scale growth patterns in thousands of salmon taken from rivers in Norway from 2010 to 2017. They looked at the impact of escaped farmed salmon breeding with wild salmon by collecting scales from 6,900 adult wild Atlantic salmon in 105 Norwegian rivers. The researchers conducted genetic tests on the scales to learn the genetic history of the fish.

The researchers found that both farmed salmon and wild salmon with farmed ancestry mature and age at a faster rate and return to rivers earlier to spawn. It was hypothesized this accelerated maturation process puts salmon at a higher risk of predation because they venture into saltwater earlier, when they are less likely to evade capture by sharks and halibut. Prior studies have indicated that salmon with farmed ancestry are less afraid of predators.

The study suggests interbreeding of farmed and wild salmon will result in reductions in wild populations, which has already been observed in some areas.

To read the entire report, see phys.org

Donate A Boat or Car Today!

I

tourn delica tennis be the

From the wr bands remai

We’ve Diam sparkl transp Don’t praise “The mistak

22 NATIONAL

MARCH 2022

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

Stauer

®

Impossible Price ONLY

$39

orway m the

h and almon pact of s from rchers fish. n with rlier to almon when s have dators. sult in some

Praise for DiamondAura® “So much sparkle and the play of light on DiamondAura® beats any diamond!”

— D.D. from Columbus, OH

How to Win at Love

A classic tennis bracelet serves up over 10 carats of sparkle for a guaranteed win

I

t was the jewelry piece that made the world stop and take notice.

In the middle of a long volley during the big American tennis tournament, the chic blonde athlete had to stop play because her delicate diamond bracelet had broken and she had to find it. The tennis star recovered her beloved bracelet, but the world would never be the same.

From that moment on, the tennis bracelet has been on the lips and on the wrists of women in the know. Once called eternity bracelets, these bands of diamonds were known from then on as tennis bracelets, and remain the hot ticket item with jewelers.

Join more than 1 million thrilled diamondAURA® customers We’ve captured this timeless classic with over 10 total carats of DiamondAura®, our signature diamond alternative stone. This sparkling marvel rivals even the finest diamonds (D Flawless) with its transparent color and clarity, and both are so hard they can cut glass.

Don’t believe me? The book “Jewelry and Gems – The Buying Guide,” praised the technique used in our diamond alternative DiamondAura®: “The best diamond simulation to date, and even some jewelers have mistaken these stones for mined diamonds,” it raved. For comparison,

we found a similarly designed 10 carat tennis bracelet with D Flawless diamonds from another company that costs $57,000!

Want to look like a million bucks without stressing over losing or damaging something that cost you a fortune? The Love Wins Tennis Bracelet is a simple strand of glittering gems in precious sterling that epitomizes elegance.

The first time we offered this bracelet, we sold out literally in minutes. It was our fastest selling product of 2021. It took six months to get it back in stock — Get yours before we run out!

Jewelry Specifications: • 10 ¾ ctw of the Ultimate Diamond Alternative®, DiamondAura® • Rhodium-finished .925 sterling silver setting • Fits wrists to 7 ½" Love Wins Tennis Bracelet (10 ¾ ctw) $399 $39* + S&P *Special price only for customers using the offer code.

1-800-333-2045 Your Offer Code: LWB152-01

Stauer, 14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. LWB152-01, Burnsville, MN 55337 www.stauer.com

Stauer® |

AFFORD THE EXTRAORDINARY

®

Hi-tech rods perform like skittish show dogs. This one just puts fish in the boat. Built durable to handle the salt, the Ugly Stik® Bigwater is as mean as it gets.

TM

© 2021 Pure Fishing, Inc.

FOR REEL

GOOD FISHING Visit Upcountry South Carolina Stop by the South Carolina Lakes booth at the Bassmaster Classic Expo, March 4-6, 2022 at the Greenville Convention Center.

Perfectly Seasoned FishUpcountrySC.com

864-233-2690

Lake Hartwell, host of the 2008, 2015, 2018, and 2022 Academy Sports & Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk