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Inside: Boat & Motor Reviews PHOTO COURTESY OF HUMMINBIRD VOLUME 24 â€¢ ISSUE 291

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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

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JUNE 2019

LIFE ON THE COAST IS BETTER WHEN YOU STAY CENTERED.

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Make the most of the open water with Yamaha’s 190 FSH® Series. Our all-new 19-foot center console boats have been redesigned from the ground up for more fishing and family fun. A saltwater corrosion resistant driveline protects you from the harshest elements. And with an extra spacious layout and new storage pods to keep all of your gear, the 190 FSH Series will put you in the middle of everything you love about living on the coast. Starting at $29,799.

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Rupp Marine Halyard Line Retainer Excess rigging line can be a mess, and cleats have a tendency to get in the way when not in use. Rupp Marine has come up with a simple yet ingenious way to solve these problems. Their all-new, patent-pending “clamp-on” Halyard Line Retainer is an easy way to store halyard lines while telescoping outriggers are rigged and in the retracted position. Simply clamp a set of these line cleats onto the outrigger pole at the desired distance. Excess rigging line wraps around the pop-up cleats to keep lines neat and orderly. This one-of-a-kind system allows the cleats to be folded out of the way when not in use. Rupp’s Halyard Line Retainer system fits any 1 ½-inch diameter outrigger poles. Sold as a set of four to equip two outrigger poles, they are rugged and durable, with spring-loaded cleats for positive locking and unlocking.

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MHX Push Pole The MHX Push Pole is a game changer for shallow-water anglers. Utilizing a combination of uni-directional and off-axis carbon fibers, MHX has created a push pole that produces the greatest amount of power in each push, while maintaining excellent hoop strength under load. There’s no wasted energy, and it’s feather light for long days on the water. When you’re sneaking up on a single shoreline tailer or positioning the boat for a shot at schooling fish, you’ll appreciate the benefits that state-of-the-art technology brings to this simple tool. The MHX push pole has been widely recognized as the best option on the market due it’s lightweight mobility, incredible durability, and superior value. At just under five pounds, you’ll be able to push all week long without the residual fatigue. Legendary Florida angler, Capt. Keiland Smith said, “In all my years of guiding, I would have to say that I have never found a push pole to be this good. The weight of this pole and the strength of it are amazing… I would have to say I think this the best push pole ever made.” The MHX Push Pole includes a fork, a tip, and a 316 stainless steel replacement point just in case.

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Park trailers of any size with ease! Parkit360’s Electric Trailer Dollies are lightweight and great for mixed terrains, tight corners and up to a 6 percent incline. With weight capacities ranging from 5,000 to 15,000 pounds, these portable powerhouses can handle the most difficult parking challenges. Unlike a driver who relies on mirrors and backup cameras, the user faces the trailer, giving them complete visibility and control while parking. They can see exactly where the trailer is at all times and steer within inches of an obstacle if needed. The dolly’s compact design allows the user to park hitch-end forward as a serious theft deterrent, something that is nearly impossible to do with a vehicle. Powered by a 12V trailer-mounted or dolly-mounted battery, Parkit360’s Force and Transformer dollies are simple to set up and intuitive to use. Just freewheel the dolly to the trailer and attach it with one of the provided hitch balls, or one of their special hitch adapters. Then, it’s simply a matter of using the forward/reverse thumb toggle switch on the handle to steer the trailer into place. Have a tough parking situation? Parkit360’s Electric Trailer Dollies are a great solution!

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Looking for a better way to secure your push pole? SeaSucker has come up with the perfect solution for holding your long and inherently unwieldy push pole when it’s not in your hands . A SeaSucker vacuum mount equipped with a rubber clamp and an adjustable strap is the perfect way to quickly and securely stow gaffs, nets and push poles. The adjustable strap holds objects with diameters ranging from 1 to 1.95 inches, and the 4.5-inch SeaSucker has the strength to hold just about anything you choose to strap down. Each 4.5-inch SeaSucker is pull rated at over 120 lbs, and an orange indicator band begins to appear if the vacuum mount loses some of its suction, letting you know it’s time to re-pump. There’s no licking required to attach SeaSucker products to glass, metal, fiberglass and most non-skid surfaces. The primary requirement is that the surface is non-porous, and SeaSucker will even attach to lightly curved surfaces. Another huge benefit is that SeaSucker can be mounted or moved wherever it’s convenient, with no need to drill holes in your boat.

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Whatever happened to Sea Cat? By Thatch Maguire

bout 20 years ago, I had the opportunity to ride aboard a dual-hull, 21-foot center console called a Sea Cat. Like many others, I’ve been a fan of cats ever since. The ride of a dual-hull vessel, especially in choppy seas, is dramatically different from that of a mono-hull. The stability of a two-hull system creates a cutting effect, as opposed to the bounce associated with the plaining of the mono-hull. Study after study has confirmed this effect affords “cats” substantially better fuel economy as well as a much smoother ride and shallower draft. The “cult” of the dual-hull cat has its origins in Australia, where catamaran-style hulls have long been the choice for Australia’s working fishermen. The consistent chop in their seas requires the stability of a catamaran hull. In the United States, several companies pioneered development of the catamaran-style boats for our waters. In the late 1950s, Ray Leger began producing the Power Cat series on the West Coast and several other companies including Manacat and Ocean Star began producing cats in the East. Years after my ride aboard the Sea Cat, I purchased a 26-foot World Cat. I was told Sea Cat was now World Cat. I visited the North Carolina World Cat factory, where I was told they no longer produced the Sea Cat. Recently, I learned the Sea Cat is still being produced in Greenville, N.C. After a few phone calls, and a little Googling, I found Forrest Munden at Sea Cat Boats. The following interview with Mr. Munden attempts to unravel the mystery of “Whatever happened to Sea Cat?” Q: Mr. Munden, how is it you are today selling a vessel that many thought was no longer on the market? Weren’t you associated with the original Sea Cat I fell in love with? Munden: Yes I was. Sea Cat was originally created by Graham Flanagan in 1992. I was manufacturing Leisure Cat boats with Regal Marine in Orlando, Fla., and Graham was manufacturing Sea Cat boats in Greenville, N.C. The innovations developed on the Sea Cat seemed destined to have substantial influence on the boating industry. The boats were super fuel-efficient and rode smoothly in nearly any conditions.

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Q: Well what happened? Munden: In 1996, I purchased Sea Cat boats and its Greenville manufacturing facility. During my first year with the brand, I designed and developed the World Cat line of catamaran boats. World Cat molds were manufactured by Vectorworks Marine in Titusville, Fla. by my good friend Jeff Gray, CEO of Vectorworks. Once we received the new World Cat molds at the plant in Greenville, we started making the World Cat and stopped making the Sea Cat. That was early in 1997. The Sea Cat molds were stored for another year and a half until my good friend Ken Hall (previous CEO of Proline/Donzi) purchased them. He owned the Florida boat company Sportcraft and wanted to add a catamaran line. He called the Sea Cat boat the Sportcat. Unfortunately, Sportcat and Sportcraft did not survive the 1998 economic downturn. The next I heard of Sea Cat was when a former Sea Cat dealer and two brothers from Columbia, S.C. splashed the 19-foot Sea Cat mold. Then, Jerry Semers purchased that mold from the brothers, who had closed their business. Mr. Semers’ started the new venture in Titusville, Fla., utilizing Vector Works Marine as a home base. He called the boat Sea Cat. After Mr. Semers passed away, the molds and tooling sat vacant for years. In 2017, a good friend and ex-Sea Cat and World Cat dealer invited me into a venture to make a new catamaran with the Sea Cat name. I reached out to Mr. Gray at Vectorworks and proceeded to do the tooling and mold building through their team. The result, introduced in 2019, is the new 260 Sea Cat Hybrid bay boat built by our partner Pete Caldwell, Caldwell Marine Designs. The original Seacat Boat built in 1992 was built again 27 years later at the same Greenville plant. Today’s vessel is capable of power up to twin 300 horsepower. Today’s 26-foot Sea Cat has handling characteristics far superior to the original that you fell in love with. The legend of Sea Cat continues as the most practical, smoothest-riding and fuel-efficient vessels this side of Australia. “The Legend Returns,” Seacatboats.com

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ifty years ago, Bud Craig started formulating a design for a new type of boat. His goal was a craft that corrects the shortcomings of conventional small boats. He felt the experience of small boats was like “sitting in a bathtub.” Most 12- to 20-foot boats have very little freeboard and they are inherently unstable. They tip and take on water in adverse conditions. He wanted to design a boat that doesn’t take on water and is unsinkable. In 1990, Craig Catamaran Corporation launched a revolutionary compact boat with fun and safety as the primary design factors. The CraigCat is one of the safest small boats on the market. Today’s

CraigCat offers a compact, high-performance sport boat with exhilarating performance, superior handling, a comfortable dry ride, and side-by-side seating not found in other small boats. CraigCat’s longevity is a testament to its popularity and the enjoyable experience it provides boaters. “People love the ride,” Craig said. “The CraigCat is very easy to operate, making it great for the beginner boater. The CraigCat also appeals to the seasoned, experienced boater who downsizes to the CraigCat just because they love the performance and function.” The secret to its high-performance is the patented design. The CraigCat is a true catamaran and is the world’s only banking catamaran. It leans into turns like a V-hull yet retains the stability of a pontoon boat. It reaches speeds up to 30 mph in just a few seconds, designed with Automatic Stability Control that translates even erratic commands into a smooth easy ride. It’s a very exciting runabout that is used for sightseeing, fishing, diving and other pursuits. Two full-grown men can walk around on the CraigCat and it remains flat in the water. It drafts 3 inches with the engine up and operates in less than 14 inches of water. It is very easy for divers to get off the boat into the water and easy to get back in the boat because of its stability and no freeboard. The CraigCat is fun, easy to operate, comfortable, extremely portable and economical. Craig Catamaran has just released its 30th Anniversary Edition called the Florida Gulf Stream. It has a South Beach Florida vibe, designed in seafoam green and finished with chrome. Craig said there will be a rush for this good-looking new edition of the CraigCat. Stop by CraigCat’s Orlando Headquarters or give them a call soon. It’s a family owned and operated business that gives personalized customer service. They build and handle their boats with pride. For more on CraigCat, go to www.craigcat.com, call (407) 2908778 | 1-833-CraigCat, or stop by their headquarters at 4333 Silver Star Rd., #100, Orlando, FL 32808.

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Photo by Nick Carter

CA Florida STAR presented by Yamaha has anglers in hot pursuit of valuable blue tags! Since the event’s launch on Memorial Day weekend, anglers have been chasing tagged fish and logging non-tagged species in 17 inshore and offshore divisions for a shot at $500,000 in prizes and scholarships. Winning anglers have their choice, in the signature iHeart Radio Tagged Redfish Division, of prizes including a new GMC Sierra Pickup from Conley Buick GMC, Bradenton or one of several Yamaha-powered boat packages including a Contender 22 Sport, Pathfinder 2200TRS, Hewes Redfisher 16, a 21 Carolina Skiff and a Relentless Aluminum Bay/Flats boat. “It really can happen, and you would get to pick from the prizes available. You just need to be a member and registered for STAR when you go fishing,” said Leiza Fitzgerald, STAR director. Since 2015, almost 100 STAR-tagged redfish have been recaptured. Only six were caught by CCA members registered for STAR. Those six anglers were awarded with either a truck or a boat, motor and trailer package. To date, there have been nearly $900,000 in prizes awarded with $400,000 of that being college scholarships. On average, four tagged redfish are released per coastal county, with Brevard, Citrus and Charlotte counties being destination counties, each with eight tagged fish released in their waters. You might want to plan a fishing weekend in one of those counties. But you better be registered and a CCA member or it will just be another sad fish story. STAR also has some other terrific prizes for catching nontagged redfish, snook, trout, tarpon, grouper, kingfish, dolphin or grouper. Submit a photo of your legal catch in the Open, Ladies, Kayak, Fly or Conservation Divisions. The Costa Kick Plastic Division encourages collection of trash from coastal waters and shoreline. Submit a photo of every full 5 gallon bucket collected and include The Official West Marine 2019 STAR Measuring Device in the photo to earn a shot at $1,500 in cash from Waxhead Sun Defense, Body Glove SUP, Costa sunglasses or a $250 gift certificate from AFTCO or West Marine. The Youth Scholarship Division presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors offers over $100,000 in scholarships. Youth anglers (ages 6-17) can register for free with their current $10 CCA Florida youth membership and are eligible for prizes in both tagged divisions as well as the Youth Scholarship Division and Trash Division. Prizes for the first two youth anglers in the tagged redfish division include a Carolina Skiff, sporting Humminbird electronics, Minn Kota trolling motor and powered with a Yamaha 40 HP motor with trailer, and the first registered youth angler who catches one of 20 tagged dolphin is eligible to win a $10,000 scholarship. As a “catch, photo and release” competition, STAR’s smart phone app promotes proper handling and eliminates the requirement for harvest or transport of fish. Registration is $40 for current CCA Florida members or $75 for non-members, which includes CCA Florida membership. For information, go to www.ccaflstar.com or call (844) 3877827.

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n March, the second-heaviest largemouth bass ever approved by FWC’s Trophy Catch Program was caught from Orange Lake south of Gainesville. Brian Hammett was punching grass mats when he caught and then released his 15-pound, 13-ounce giant. The TrophyCatch Hall of Fame fish is one more indicator of a rebound for the lake, which was fishing lights-out this spring. After producing a large number of trophy bass in 2010 and 2011, Orange Lake went almost dry in the winter of 2011. Following several years of sustained high water, coupled with FWC staff working with local stakeholders to manage the lake, habitat on Orange Lake is once again very good and the fishery has bounced back. Not only has crappie and panfish fishing been very good, but anglers are catching bass again, including tro-

phy bass like Hammett’s, as well as nine other TrophyCatch bass weighing at least 8 pounds that were approved in the program since January. Six of the 10 TrophyCatch-approved 2019 Orange Lake bass weighed more than 10 pounds. FWC staff worked with stakeholders to write the Orange Lake Habitat Management Plan in 2015-2016 and continue to manage the lake’s habitat according to the plan. Management activities are discussed at public meetings twice a year, and have included vegetation shredding, tussock harvesting and invasive plant control. These management activities not only enhance habitat for fish but also for other species such as wading birds. In addition to habitat enhancement projects, FWC staff also continue to monitor the fish populations through fish sampling, creel surveys (angler interviews) and research projects, such as tagging studies. FWC biologists have collected nine bass on Orange Lake weighing more than 8 pounds in the past two years. The largest bass weighed 13.5 pounds and was collected this spring—the same week Hammett’s Hall of Fame TrophyCatch bass was caught and submitted. The second-largest bass collected by FWC biologists on Orange Lake was collected in March 2017 and weighed 9.75 pounds. That bass was tagged, released and later recaptured by FWC biologists in November 2017, weighing 13 pounds. TrophyCatch is a partnership between the FWC, anglers and fishing industry leaders, such as Bass Pro Shops, that rewards the catch, documentation and release of largemouth bass weighing 8 pounds or heavier in Florida. In order to be eligible for prizes, anglers are required to submit photos or videos showing the entire fish and its weight on a scale to TrophyCatch.com before releasing it back into the water. FWC biologists use TrophyCatch data for bass research, to make informed decisions about the management of Florida bass fisheries and to promote the catch and release of trophy bass. In the past six seasons, TrophyCatch has awarded prizes for the catch and release of more than 8,000 largemouth bass weighing at least 8 pounds. For more information about the TrophyCatch program, email Amber Nabors at Amber.Nabors@MyFWC.com. For more information about the Orange Creek Basin Interagency Working Group or to view the Orange Lake Habitat Management Plan, visit OrangeCreekBasin.wordpress.com.

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By Capt. Billy Black

Dave Terrazas and mate JB Stone with a 60-pound wahoo.

e all know that the winter months bring weather that makes it a little bit sporty to cross the Gulf Stream to the Bahamas. I have been fortunate to find weather windows that have allowed me to do multiple fishing trips through March, April and May to Grand Cay and Walker’s Cay. I am always reminded as I see the two islands in the distance how fortunate I feel to return to this spot to fish again. We are always greeted warmly at Rosie’s place when we arrive. It never gets old enjoying the superb cooking of conch, fish, stone crabs and lobster in season at Ron’s Hot Spot or Rosie’s Restaurant. We often shoot pool at Dee’s Place. Fishing is always good, and returning to the dock with numerous species is the highlight of the trip. The excitement continues to build as we watch cranes working at Walker’s Cay Marina getting ready for the opening in 2020. Words cannot express how grateful I am to Carl and Gigi Allen, the new owners of Walker’s Cay. I began to believe that I would never see this magnificent island restored in my lifetime. My dreams have been answered and seeing work on the island lets me know we will be back there soon. We all think that the reopening of Walker’s is good for us from the States, but words cannot describe the symbiotic relationship that Walker’s and Grand Cay have to each other. These two islands are at their best when they are able to work together for the betterment of the Bahamas and the people of Grand Cay. Contact Capt. Billy Black and Duchess Sportfishing at Captbillyblack.com or call (772) 233-1048.

Reel in the memories. Sitting on the most biodiverse estuary in the Northern Hemisphere, Martin County is a fisherman’s paradise. Ocean, lake and river ecosystems are home to more than 800 species of fish, from the ever-popular sailfish and snook to largemouth bass and perch. Forget your gear? Visit one of Martin’s many bait and tackle shops or outdoor retailers. Inshore, offshore, saltwater or fresh, head out for an adventure and reel in the memories.

DiscoverMartin.com 6

FLORIDA

JUNE 2019

John Cabaniss, Mackey Cooper, Dave Terrazas, Dave Orshowitz, and Duchess mate JB Stone (from left) returning to the docks at Grand Cay with dolphin and wahoo.

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FLY FISHING

Basic Casts You’ll Need To Know Learn The Double Haul

Developing a solid double-haul is the foundation of a quick and accurate cast. It is essential for the long casts required by many saltwater species and for cutting through wind. Not only does the double haul help with distance, if executed correctly, it reduces the number of back casts the angler must make. It is well to remember that the more time the fly line is in the air, the less time the fly is on the water. The best way to learn the double haul is to find a grassy area like a park, making certain the park’s area affords you enough room to make the back-cast portion of the double haul. Strip out 40 feet of fly line and make a forward cast, allowing the fly line to lie on the grass in front of you. Next, lower your rod tip to where it is touching the ground in front of you. Then, pick up the fly line and make a back cast, allowing the line lay out behind you. This is the single haul. Next, pull the fly line off the grass behind you with your line hand while the fly rod is moving forward, and with the rod moving forward, pull the line down towards your belt line. As you feel the fly rod load while it bends on the forward cast, release the line from your line hand, allowing the fly line to shoot forward through the guides. This is the second haul of the double haul, an effective cast when long-distance casts are required, but also important for the short, quick accurate cast.

The Quick-Cast for the Short Game

Perhaps most important when fly fishing saltwater is the abundance of great sight-casting opportunities. You never know when or where a fish will appear. Achieving distance is important, but the ability to execute short, quick, accurate casts is a skill you’ll need to be successful. Nothing is more important than a short, quickly executed, casting game. It may seem counterintuitive, but the short cast is one of the most difficult casts to make in fly fishing. A fly rod made for short casting has yet to be built, and the use of a 9-foot rod places you at a disadvantage. You can make the needed adjustment by merely shortening the amount of fly line you have outside the tip of your fly rod. When fly fishing in saltwater, unless I know I’ll be making long casts, I keep roughly 30 feet of fly line stripped into a line management basket (bucket if fishing from a skiff) and 20 feet of line outside the fly rod’s tip-top. The first 15 of the line will easily load the fly rod with minimum false casting. You need to keep the fly between your index finger and thumb of the hand not holding the rod. If a fish is spotted at close range, make your back cast while at the same time releasing the fly from your hand and cast. As with anything, practice makes perfect. So, master these casting techniques and you be on your way to becoming a better angler.

The Back Cast is Important

Much of your success in fly casting is dependent upon the development of a smooth back cast; that is the ability to cast 20 to 30 feet of line quickly behind you whenever demanded. Remember the fly fisherman’s adage that “your forward cast is only as good as your back cast.” A good cast is essential when sight-casting flies to redfish, bonefish, tarpon and permit. If a fish appears behind you, make a forward cast, and with your fly line on the water, simply pick up the line and shoot it behind you. Retain eye contact with the fish’s position. Success is achieved by having the rod tip low on the water and slowly bringing the fly line off the water then recasting. I’ve witnessed far too many fishermen rush to recast, and in doing so, miss their target on the second-cast, resulting in the spooking of the fish. Here’s a rule of thumb: Put the brakes to your back cast.

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BOAT REVIEW Mitzi Skiff 17 Tournament

For those of you that use a push pole to navigate the shallow waters and grass flats the Mitzi is one of the easiest to pole as it tracks amazingly straight. The poling platform is made of aluminum tube specially for Mitzi and it places you 34 inches above the deck giving you optimal viewing for sight fishing with friends or clients. Mitzi is a skiff you can pole all day long and not feel like you have worked. Mitzi Skiffs comes in 15’, 16’, 17’ and 17’ tournament versions. These can be outfitted to meet any need that you have from tiller motors in the 15 versions to the fully loaded 17 Tournament Editions.

SPECIFICATIONS LOA: 25’10”

The Mitzi Skiff line of boats started years ago, when Tom Mitzlaff couldn’t find the particular boat he wanted. The idea was simple. It needed to have a clean layout for fly-fishing, a shallow draft, and remain quiet yet still be inexpensive to own and operate. So Tom, being the resourceful person he is, ended up designing his own line of skiffs, and the Mitzi Skiff was born. As the Mitzi Skiff boat company moves into a new era, we are guided by those very same principles. We build all composite, wide shallow water skiffs from 15 to 17 feet for the shallow water enthusiasts that are affordable. We continue to improve and innovate while still Keeping It Simple! When you talk about Mitzi skiffs the thought that comes to mind is the room on the bow; it has more room than other boats similar in size. It’s a great place to put a beginner fly fisherman or a couple with light tackle. Underneath the bow you have the Carolina Flare which cuts through chop and when the chop gets big the flare actually directs the water down which helps to keep you dry and comfortable.

STANDARD EQUIPMENT:

• 3 – Dry Storage areas BEAM: 6’5” • 6 – Fly rod tubes under gunwales – Fits 9.5 Fly Rods FUEL: 120 gallons • Built in fuel tank HULL WEIGHT: 530 lbs • Walk around gunwales • Accon pull-up stainless cleats BUILDER: • Teleflex steering • Foam floatation filled hull bottom Mitzi Skiff Boats • Self draining cockpit into bilge • Aluminum Poling Platform Frame CONTACT: w/non-skid top • Huge front casting deck (252) 235-3461 (A fly fisherman’s dream) • Hull color options & 17 Tournament decals • Baitwell console • Console rod rack

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Center Consoles… Things have changed By Art Hodax

f you’ve been to a boat show lately, you’ve no doubt been stunned by the array of large center console boats. They’re big, they’re quick and they’re ocean capable. This class of boats represents one of the most innovative areas of boat design. For many, they balance the best in design, power, comfort and range. Today’s selection of larger outboard-powered boats results from a game of industry leapfrog. The interest in larger center consoles drove the development of larger outboards, and more powerful outboards have allowed marine engineers to create even larger center console boats.

At a recent boat show, George Smith from Marine Max in Stuart, Fla. showed off some “open” boats that are easy to maintain, are capable of offshore runs even on less-than-perfect days and have the accommodations and safety features to comfortably cross the Gulf Stream from the Florida coast. Today, there’s no problem finding outboard-powered boats over 40’ with consoles large enough to include a berth, head with shower, galley and air conditioning. Smith talked about how the market for these boats has changed over the past four or five years. One of the driving changes to boat construction has been the use of vacuum-infused fiberglass. In the past, hulls were thick to provide strength and more resin was used than needed. Now, boats are computer engineered using fiberglass as well as high-tech fabrics like Kevlar and carbon fiber to create stronger and lighter hulls. In addition to these high-tech fabrics, new construction techniques allow materials to be vacuum sealed into the mold by adding a layer of plastic film over the cloth during construction. Using vacuum pumps, resin is then drawn through hoses into the cloth, impregnating it while vacuuming excess resin out of the mold. The result is a lighter and stronger construction, which allows for larger more complex hulls and cockpits to be produced. We boarded a new 42’ Boston Whaler Outrage. As an outboard boat, there’s a massive amount of space inside the hull. This boat is designed to handle up to 1, 675 hp spread across up to four engines. This brings us to the issue of outboard evolution. Large outboards are now six- or eight-cylinder, four-stroke powerhouses. These engines commonly benefit from supercharging and from new alloys that allow them to withstand added compression and torque. Among the options are Mercury Marine’s Verado 400 hp inline six-cylinder, the 425 hp Yamaha XTO Offshore V8, or for those who want more, the Seven-Marine 627 hp supercharged and intercooled V8. These engines are reliable, quiet and smooth. These days, center consoles can compete in many ways with larger flybridge boats. Things have changed in the market for open boats.

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COME OUTSIDE & DISCOVER

Lake Okeechobee OKEECHOBEE AND MARTIN COUNTY, FLORIDA

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SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

By John Saporito

ard plastic, soft plastic, jig heads, popping corks, backward-swimming lures, live or frozen, weighted or freelined—with such variety available to those casting natural and artificial shrimp, it can be tough to know which option is best. However, when it comes to optimal presentation, soft plastic is king. Fitted with a single upright hook and just enough belly ballast to keep it stable in the water, this classic has stood the test of time for good reason. The key is that the angler has complete control over the action of the lure. In skilled hands, it will out fish the real thing. The problem with live shrimp is they never swim naturally be-

Reel, Remove, Release The Brown Pelican is a common sight in Florida and all along the Gulf Coast. Almost everyone who sees them thrills at the sight as they glide effortlessly across the water, soar on the wind, or dive headfirst from a hundred feet in the air straight into the water. It’s a wonderful sight that residents and tourists alike, love to see and enjoy. Unfortunately, a sight that is almost as common and that most people don’t ever see, is the way they all too frequently become entangled in fishing line and die a horrible, torturous death, struggling and alone in the mangroves or other roosting sites. Fishing line entanglement is the number one cause of death for brown pelicans. If free of human interference, Brown Pelicans could live to the age of 40 years in the wild. However, studies show only 30% of all pelicans will survive their first year – only 2% will live to reach the age of ten years. In addition to pelicans, fishing line entanglement also kills Herons, Egrets, Ibises, Cormorants and all of the other seabirds roosting in the mangrove rookeries who become tangled in the same line. If you hook a pelican or Photos by Carol Cassels any seabird, please don’t cut your line and let the bird fly away with it attached. This will lead to entanglement, resulting in death of that bird and possibly others as well. DO THIS Instead, follow these

cause even a light leader and thin braided line is a lot of resistance for these little guys. It’s like putting a heavy leash on a Chihuahua. Conversely, the movement of the artificial version is only influenced by the wind, the water current and the angler’s own actions. The soft plastic shrimp will not have a mind of its own; it’s an extension of the angler. Although the lure is a proven fish catcher right out of the package, I like to replace the stock hook with a sharper, sturdier model. Choose a hook that’s strong enough to handle your biggest possible target without affecting the lure’s action. Lots of fishermen will recommend a loop knot to join the lure to your leader, but I use a small stainless-steel lure clip instead. This allows for freedom of motion without compromising on strength. The loop knot is too much of a liability for my taste. If you like, you can even outfit the lure with a tiny glass rattle, adding to its sound appeal. These lures come in an endless array of colors, which may all produce under the right conditions. Choosing a lure with some degree of translucence is probably a good step toward replicating a natural shrimp. When fishing from above—docks, piers and bridges—it’s a good idea to pick a pattern that is visible to you. That way, you can keep track of exactly where the lure is and what it’s doing. The most important aspect of using any lure is presentation, and the soft plastic shrimp lets you mimic the real thing better than any other shrimp lure on the market. You just have to take the time to observe the movements of a live shrimp. Whether it’s the bait tank at a tackle shop, from atop a lighted bridge or underneath dock lights, a live viewing offers an invaluable learning opportunity. Pay attention to the pace, the timing and the nuances of the shrimp’s behavior. Learn how it moves, and then try to replicate it with your lure. When you’ve gotten it right, the results will speak for themselves. John Saporito is a lifelong fisherman and student of the seas. Visit him online at www.guerillaangling.com.

simple steps to unhook the bird: Reel. Remove. Release. 1. Wear safety glasses and enlist a partner for help. 2. Reel the bird in slowly and lift it from the water. Even a large pelican weighs only 4-8 pounds 3. Grasp the bird by the head just behind the eyes and fold the wings against the body. For pelicans, hold the beak, keeping the mouth slightly open so it can breathe. Cover the bird’s head with a cloth to keep it calm. 4. Never pull the hook out but TO PREVENT THIS carefully push the end through the skin, cut off the barb and Photos by Carol Cassels back the hook out using pliers or clippers. If the bird is entangled, remove all line. 5. Release the bird (if healthy) by placing it on the ground near the water and allowing it to take off. 6. If the bird has swallowed the hook or is severely injured, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator from the list at MyFWC. com/unhook.

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By Billy Darby • Photo by Nick Carter

mpoundments created by damming rivers and creeks all have something in common beginning in about June. Fish head out to the ledges, and it’s this summer pattern that brings anglers to the famous offshore ledges on my home lake, Eufaula, as well as on reservoirs around the region. Spawning is about over, and several game species, especially bass, are searching for food, cover and shade. The sharp ledges where the river and creek banks dropped straight down before the lake was formed are the perfect spot for hide and seek. From the headwaters, where the ledges are the shallowest, down to the dams, where ledges are sometimes too deep to be practical, there is a sweet spot that affords the perfect temperature, oxygen and other environmental necessities to maintain life and comfort. The difference in water temperatures at certain depths, generating schedule, current flow speed, lake level and many other factors determine exactly where this sweet spot is on any different day or hour. Those with the most experience on a given reservoir have a distinct advantage, but information pertaining to these criteria is

available at most U.S. Army Corps headquarters offices as well as from the Tennessee Valley Authority. Whoever controls the dams where you fish has the information you need. For Lake Eufaula, call (866) 772-9542 ext. 244. In most cases an app is available for your favorite lake. Ledges are nothing short of structure, and knowing where to look is a very important factor. Critical features support feeding advantages such as the sharpest of the sharp drop-offs, small ditches that intersect with such sudden drops, a rise in adjacent landscape creating a ski-jump effect, points, curvatures, and the list goes on. Some of these features create an updraft where cooler water is forced upward, and likewise, just the opposite only yards away. In all the mentioned areas, shad and other prey are disrupted by the sudden surge in water flow. Today’s electronics, with highdefinition displays showing us where bait and bass congregate, are a huge advantage to finding the sweet spot on the ledges. But a little old-fashioned map work is also key to putting yourself where the fish are likely to be. As always, know“ledge”—pun intended—is the key to success. Careful study of your lake master maps and identifying target returns can produce unbelievable results, not just in June, but all summer long. Billy Darby is a retired professional guide on Lake Eufaula. He can be reached at imfishing4u@windstream.net or (229) 768-2369.

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Inshore & Offshore Opportunities

by Capt. Terry Fisher

une is a month for opportunities galore when it comes to targeting fish inshore and offshore. Moderate and consistent warm water temperatures will create the perfect situation for virtually all species. An abundance of shrimps, pinfish, crabs and mullet (dead or alive) are available for purchase from most area bait and tackle shops. Inshore: Big tarpon are cruising the beaches. They are in the passes, areas of Pine Island Sound, and Charlotte Harbor. These fish are migrating in schools from the south and are looking to feed on virtually any bait in their paths. Live/dead ‘baits of choice’ include ‘Silver Dollar’ size blue crab, mullet, herring, sardines, ladyfish, pinfish and catfish fillets. These baits may be fished on the bottom of the seabed or under a float. Use gear strong enough to handle anything from 60-150lb. fish. Spinning reels in the 6000-8000 series loaded on 30-40lb. rated rods with 65lb. test line, 80lb. leader, with 8/0 to 9/0 circle hooks should be sufficient for most hook-ups. Sharks are following the tarpon and will make a great by-catch. Snook season is closed, but there are no laws that prevent anglers from catching them. June is a fantastic month to look for big snook cruising along the beaches and passes. Many snook have moved to these locations from rivers, canals, and reefs to feed and spawn. They are here in good numbers and are awesome fighters. Live, dead and artificial presentations all work. I prefer to free-line live sardines, herring or pinfish, using light tackle with circle hooks. Try not to use tackle (too light) that will prolong the fight to the extent of exhausting a big fish. I recommend 4000 series spinning reels with 10-20lb. rated rods loaded with 15lb. test line. Redfish are here in decent numbers in ‘back-country’ locations such as Matlacha Pass and Pine Island Sound. Even though their season is temporarily closed, they are an awesome fish to catch. Target them on high, incoming tides with light tackle or locate them ‘tailing’ on the shallow flats on low tides. I find that they are less spooky and easier to catch on high incoming tides around spoil islands and oyster bars. Live shrimps, small blue crabs and gold spoons are very effective presentations. Trout season has been temporarily closed, but still a fun venue for a family outing or simply a day on the water. Fish for them on the grass flats in 3 to 6 ft. of water. I use very light tackle. My bait

of choice and technique is a live shrimp on a 1/8 oz. jig-head, suspended under a popping cork. The lighter the tackle, the more fun it is to catch trout. Spanish mackerel may be targeted with artificial spoons and Gotcha type lures on thin wire or 80lb. monofilament leaders. Live bait preferences are freelined pilchards on 30lb. monofilament leaders with small ‘J’ hooks. Look for diving birds to located feeding schools of mackerel. Offshore: Larger red, black and gag grouper and red snapper will be caught in 70’- 100’ of water using jigs or live baits on circle hooks. Lane/vermillion snapper and porgy will be by-catches and make great eating. Be sure and comply with both state and federal regulations regarding types of hooks, techniques and harvesting. Mangrove (gray) snapper are in the passes and on the reefs. Basic drops for these are light line with a 2ft. leader, 1/0 to 2/0 circle hook loaded with squid, shrimp, sardine or herring (dead or alive).

Permit are around the reefs. Small crabs are my favorite bait to use. I chum up the water with shrimp to attract them to the surface and then free-line one behind the boat. These fish are aggressive and lots of fun to catch. Use medium size tackle to enjoy the fight. Kingfish are around the reefs as well. They will eat live baits, but trolling large silver spoons deep over the reef is an effective method for catching them. Wire leaders will prevent cut offs. Cobia will show up around and, on these reefs, as well, so keep a rod rigged with an artificial eel for a quick cast. However, the best chance will be to have a rod ready and a live eel in the bait well to present when the opportunity arises. This is Captain Terry Fisher of Fish Face Charters wishing everyone ‘fantastic’ June fishing. Check out my website at www.fishfacecharters.com. Contact me directly at 239-357-6829 or email, fishfacecharters@yahoo.com with any questions or to book a charter on your vessel or mine. I am available as ‘Captain for Hire’ on your boat (by the hour), for both inshore and offshore fishing. Get years of my knowledge, techniques and locations, which will ensure your every fishing trip is a safe and successful venture.

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On the Fly by Capt. Mike Manis

or many, this could simply be an extension of May. If the tarpon are numerous, it’s difficult not to fish them. Fishing a live crab or threadfin along the beaches or up in the harbor works well. On f ly, I’ll spend most of my time inside Pine Island Sound. When the wind lies down I’ll make my way along the beach between Captiva and Boca Grande Pass. Because these are large migrating fish, I’ll fish an eleven or twelve weight rigged with a f loating line. I also prefer no more than a 20 lb. line class tippet, but will use a 60 or 80 lb. piece of shock tippet. Typically, I’ll stick with a 3/0 black and purple Puglisi baitfish pattern. To be expected, the tarpon do draw a crowd; it’s just part of the experience. On the other hand, it does open up lots of shoreline in the backcountry and on more than one occasion I’ve found myself taking advantage of this newfound tranquility. In addition, as snook prepare for their spawn, they’ll be all over the beaches. However, they’ll still be inside around deep cuts and tidal creeks. Turtle Bay and around Cape Haze to the southern end of the West Wall can fish well. Too, along the east

side around Big Dead Creek and Buzzard Bay north of Matlacha holds good fish. Here, I like a 2/0 Puglisi mangrove baitfish pattern fished with a seven or eight weight rigged with a f loating line. Redfish will be in the bushes, mangroves, in just about all the bays and sounds that surround the harbor. As the water temperature heats up, I like looking in areas adjacent to the intracoastal. The cooler oxygenated water coming in from the Gulf helps provide good healthy habitat. In addition, the intracoastal covers lots of ground with good shoreline from Stump Pass in Lemon Bay to Captiva Pass in Pine Island Sound. Here, I’ll throw the same gear and patterns that I throw for snook. Sharks are abundant and soaking a piece of cut bait anywhere near the Cape Haze artificial reef has a chance of getting picked up. Cobia should be in the upper harbor at the mouth of the Myakka River. Big Jack crevalle can be found moving up and down the drop-off outside the West Wall. In many cases, they can be seen pushing water at the bar’s edge. In both cases, the cobia and jacks, just about any bait placed where they can see it should get eaten. Until next month, good tides. Captain Michael Manis is a U.S.G.C. Licensed captain and has been teaching the sport of fly and light tackle angling since 2002. He lives in Punta Gorda, Florida and can be reached at www.puntagordaflycharters.com.

4 FORT MYERS/ | JUNE 2019 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

Reel Salty Endeavours

by Capt. Brian Boxx

ummer will officially be upon us by the end of the month, but South Florida seems to have missed that memo. Oppressive humidity and extreme UV indexes have already left us grasping for our favorite rambler, seeking to suck the last drop of icy cool relief from its insulated core. Is it really worth all the suffering? YOU BET YOUR BOTTOM DOLLAR IT IS! Though I may be on my 3rd set of lips for the week, the fishing has been just as hot! So suck it up buttercup, it’s time to get bent. Schools of pilchard are still a dime a dozen off the beaches. A livewell full of these frisky baits is a great way to start your day. Use the magic of Boca Coast chum to get them grouped up, then serve them a 12ft pancake. Threadfins have also been easy pickings just outside the passes. Drift the color divide of the outgoing tide with a good chum effort and work the slick with a Sabiki rig. The beaches have been producing excellent snook fishing during the early morning hours. Run down the coastline and look for shore birds grouped up waiting for an easy meal. Make a quiet approach with your trolling motor. Make a long cast with one of those lively baits landing it just outside the birds reach. This tactic has been producing a well mixed bag of trout, snook, and redfish. As the sun gets higher,

if the water is clear, sight fishing has been extremely productive out front, producing some huge snook along the beaches. Trade in the sunblock for bug spray and hit the night scene. Tarpon and big snook have been chewing on the outgoing tide in the passes. Weeks opposing the new and full moon have been most productive. Live crabs, mullet, and ladyfish rigged on circle hooks have been my top producers. Snook spawn May through September. Please exercise extreme care when handling them, especially the large females. Allow them extra time to “revive” boat-side. After the fight is over, let them “suck on your thumb” gently moving the head side-to-side till they let go. Never pull the fish backwards. Next, support them from the tail and belly lightly till they swim away of their own power. If you must remove the fish from the water always support the fish with 2 wet hands, (one on the lower jaw, the other near the anal fin). Be a responsible angler and we can all enjoy a better fishery. The rains have brought out the mosquitos in full force, so plan accordingly. Wear a buff! They offer as much protection from bugs as they do the sun. Repell’s eucalyptus and lemon tree oil is my go-to bug spray. It also has a menthol cooling effect that brings relief from the oppressive humidity. If the winds are light, a Thermocell is a true lifesaver, there is a YouTube mod that will show you how to make the butane cartridge refillable saving you some extra coin. Mosquitos carry all kinds of health concerns so please do your best to protect yourself from them. Till next month, Stay Salty. Capt. Brian Boxx is the owner/operator of Reel Salty Endeavours, a proud veteran owned and operated charter service. If you, your family, or guests are looking to get out on the water, contact him through his website, https://www.reelsaltyendeavours.com/contact-us/, Facebook at Reel Salty Endeavours, or call 904-866-5050.

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2508 Andalusia Blvd., Cape Coral, FL 33909

by Dan Carns

here are two things that will change everything about fishing for you and ultimately increase your catch rate, learn how to tie several knots and switch to fluorocarbon leaders. I know this sounds kind of boring and perhaps elementary but I promise that if your dedicated and diligent it will pay off ! First for the knots, you will find countless online videos and numerous websites like Animated Knots by Grog, NetKnots.com and many others. When I’m learning a new knot I take my favorite beverage out to the picnic table with my laptop and all my cutters, leaders and lines and begin to practice for an hour or so tying just the one knot over and over as many as 50 or 60 times! The following day I’ll repeat it again until I really begin to understand when it fails or succeeds and I’m beginning to tie it from memory without direction. Again the following few days or weekends I continue to re-tie the same knot, over and over again until it’s cemented in my memory. There are two reasons why this is important, first and foremost knots may be the weakest point in your fishing gear and without a good connection you may lose fish but just as critical is that moment when your in a school of feeding fish and you break off a lure, hook or leader you want to re-tie as fast as possible to resume the hunt! Although I know dozens of knots I use three all the time; my favorite braid to leader knot is the Yucatán (fast and efficient) followed by the Tarpon Loop for all leader to hook and most lures and finally the Improved Clench affectionately known as the Fishermans Knot. Next up are leaders and leader material and this one change will improve your catch rate instantly. Leaders have always been important for some targeted species as they may crush your lures with such force that they shock and break your line or may have super abrasive lips and sharp teeth. I would recommend that you always use a leader and more importantly a fluorocarbon leader. This material virtually disappears under water making your hooks and lure appear to be suspending alone and isn’t prone to spooking fish although some species like Snook have excellent eyesight so you may have to down size the diameter and pound rating. There are countless companies making fluorocarbon leaders but they are not all created equally as some are stiffer and have a larger diameter so I recommend that you buy a top of the line brand name and don’t cheap out here, yes this stuff is expensive but worth every penny as you’ve already spent a ton of money on gear, time and maybe bait so skimp somewhere else! I usually start out with a three foot section and retie until its no less than sixteen inches long. Add these two suggestions to your arsenal and catch more fish! It’s A Wild World-Get Out There! Fishman Dan Come by the shop at 4120 Pine Island Rd. Matlacha Fl. 33993 (239) 283-1125 and see for yourself what we have to offer as I’m sure you will love our location! It’s A Wild World-Get Out There! Fishman Dan

6 FORT MYERS/ | JUNE 2019 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

Peace RiverCharlotte Harbor

by Capt. Dave Stephens

ummer has arrived to South West Florida. That means several different things. First, and the most important, the fishing is at its best. During the summer months there are so many fish to target it is impossible to do it in a single day. So, you can plan multiple days on the water or pick your target species. Number two, it gets very hot. Make sure to bring plenty of liquids with you on the water, (water and not just beer). Number three, watch the weather. Afternoon thunder storms form very quickly and will have lightning. Keep an eye on the sky. With today’s technology you can keep up-to-date with your phone. With the warmer water moving into Charlotte Harbor the King also makes his entrance. Tarpon are all over the harbor, from the beaches to the north end of the harbor. The biggest problem with tarpon fishing is the area you choose to fish them. If you are out on the beaches in the clear water, small blue crabs and herring are great bait. I highly recommend using a fluorocarbon leader. Moving in to the north end of the harbor, herring and ladyfish work very well; cut bait will also get a tarpon’s attention. If the area you are fishing has other boats fishing the same fish, and probably will, treat them as you would want to be treated, give them plenty of room. Snook fishing has been very good this year. As summer gets in to full swing, snook will be getting ready to spawn. Barrier mangrove shorelines with good tide flow are great places to locate fish. The beaches will also have very good numbers of feeding fish. Live sardines and pin fish are great choices for bait. Mangrove snapper have been showing up on the deeper shorelines. These little guys in my opinion are some of the best eating fish in the harbor. They can be tough to catch in clear water. I recommend downsizing your leader and a smaller hook. When the summer rains darken the water, it makes for much easier snapper fishing. Also keep in mind fellow anglers, our snook, red and trout fishery is CATCH and RELEASE. Our lovelies are trying to recover from last year’s red tide. Check out FWC for any future information and updates. On your next fishing outing on Charlotte Harbor, don’t forget to bring plenty of water. Keep your eye on the sky for thunder storms and have a great time fishing. If you would like to experience some of Southwest Florida’s finest fishing, give us a call, 941-916-5769 or send an email to capt.dstephens@comcast.net. All of our charters are private and customized to fit you and your party’s needs. Capt. Dave Stephens, www.backbayxtremes.com

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

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

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A nice 19” tripletail

into the gulf. Getting there is half of the battle and having the proper fishing gear is another factor. Some like the big spinning reels and some like the conventional style. Then you have your two speed reels, woo-hoo, that retrieve up to five feet of line in a single crank of the handle. And if you have the big stud hooked, you down shift into granny gear and keep cranking till you win the tug of war. This is helpful when the water by Capt. Bart Marx is 160’ deep and you have nice fish on-twenty plus pounds. We ello fellow anglers, June can be a fun time in the fishing like to use braided lines these days, nothing wrong with that. community. The large schools of tarpon are here for your We have found that you can add a top shot of 150’ of monofilenjoyment, along with the tax ament for your fishing pleasure. collectors in the grey suits, yup This gives you the stretch that the sharks, all makes and modyou need and the abrasion factor. els, along with the snook on the Mono can take more abrasion beaches, with AJ’s and permit on that braid, fishing the hard botthe offshore wrecks. June, you got toms for the reds, etc. You can your red snappers that the seause an old school knocker rig or a son is so short and you can only chicken rig, both catch fish. Just have two per angler. It’s usually a so you know, most of my fishlong run to get to the red snaping is anchored up for the snapper grounds, thirty plus miles. pers; you can chum them to your The most current information I boat. If you do it right you can have the recreational season in pull them off a wreck a hundred Florida is June 11th - July 12th. yards away. We plan to have our Don’t take my word as the gosSCARAB permitted for red snappel truth, check for yourself first per season. If you are interested before you head offshore on the in an offshore trip give me a call. regulations. Be prepared to move from your red snapper spot if you So, if you would like to come along with Capt. Bart Marx on an offshore adventure have your limit; the law reads you are not to cull these fish. give me a call. I have a new member to the fleet, a 30’ SCARAB w/ 500 horse power These fish can’t survive being brought to the surface and rethat can cruise at 30 mph and go out 30 miles on an eight-hour trip. Give me a leased, please be a good steward. Most of the areas that will be call 941-979-6517 or e-mail me at captbart@alphaomegacharters.com and always remember, singing drags and tight lines make me smile. <*(((((>{ holding the reds is from 100’ – 160’ of water, 30-60 miles out

Fishing Adventures

8 FORT MYERS/ | JUNE 2019 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

by Capt. Justin Napior

ello everyone, Captain Justin Napior here, local fishing guide, avid fisherman, and conservationist. I grew up fishing the waters of South West Florida from Naples to Chokoloskee. Snook and tarpon are my specialty! I’m very excited to share some awesome fishing stories, reports and some tips and tricks with you! The month of June is a killer month for snook and tarpon fishing. The snow birds have flown away and the love bugs have flown in. By June the tarpon have already started showing up along the beaches and in the passes of SWFL and larger breeder snook have come out from their winter homes. Live bait is pretty easy to some by, so load up on them large pilchards or pass crabs. Rig those on a 3/0 to 4/0 circle hook with a 40LB leader. Or if you’re an artificial person, a large white paddle tail rigged on a 3/0 twist lock hook or a classic jig head is a go-to color for most anglers during the summer months. Fly fishing is also very productive. A classic top water like a skitter walk in a red/white color worked along a nice mangrove line can get you some of the most thrilling, heart stopping, drag screaming top water action you will ever see! Focus on your local passes and beaches. Snook will be found cruising the edge of the beach; look for schools of bait with fish busting through them. Early morning and evening will be your best bite. Tarpon can be found just off the beach in schools or sometimes laid up alone. The smaller juvenile tarpon will be loaded up in the back bays and creeks of the Ten Thousand Islands. Get out there as the sun is just creeping over the trees and the boat is still covered with morning dew. There is nothing more exciting than a huge snook or tarpon on the end of the line first thing in the morning! It’s what keeps us coming back over and over again. The thrill of the hunt, wondering where is that next big fish going to be? Or sometimes, unfortunately losing a trophy fish and adding another fish story to your next fishing conversation! Last but not least, the unforgettable memories with your family and friends. Now go catch a big one and until next time, tight lines everybody! Capt. Justin Napior is the owner of Backcountry Culture Fishing out of beautiful Naples, FL. specializing in snook and tarpon. If you’re looking for some SWFL fishing contact him at capt.jnapior@gmail.com or call 239-682-7101. Check him out at www.facebook.com/ jnapior67 www.instagram.com/jnapior67_ FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINE | FT. MYERS/ | JUNE 2019 | FORT MYERS 9

LOCAL BUSINESSES

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AT YOUR SERVICE

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MATLACHA

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The Great Calusa Blueway

by Mike Hammond

he Battle on the Blueway is back again to kick off summer fun in the sun on Fort Myers Beach at Crescent Beach Family Park. On June 8, the best paddlers from around Florida and the Southeast will be in town to compete in one of the most popular events on the race circuit. More than 100 paddlers attended the 2018 race. In addition to these elite athletes paddling in the Ron Jon 7 Mile Pro Race, a wide variety of paddlers will be participating in the Body Glove 2 Miler or fun relay races. Whether you are a high level athlete wanting to compete against the best paddlers in Florida or someone who just wants to be part of a fun event, the Battle on the Blueway has something for everyone. All crafts are welcome and we will have prizes for SUPs, outrigger canoes, kayaks, surf-skis, prone and canoes. Last year the Special Olympic Unified race was the highlight of the event. Each Special Olympic athlete teamed up with two elite paddlers for a relay race. The crowd and participant response was awesome to watch. We are going to repeat the unified race this year by adding large family size Body Glove Crusader relay to the race. After completing the course individually, participants will have to work as a team to paddle the huge iSUPs. The events are free for spectators, who can see the races from the beach or the pier at Lynn Hall Park. Spectators will be encouraged to try the Body Glove Crusader and other iSUPs in the demo area. Other paddle sport companies and vendors will also be on-site to let you try SUPs, kayaks, surf-skies and other equipment. Pre-registration is required for racers. For more information on the Battle on the Blueway, please go to https://paddleguru.com/races/BattleontheBlueway2019

For complete schedule and registration information, visit: https://paddleguru.com/races/BattleontheBlueway2018 Additional information about the site and other paddling locations in Lee County are at www.leeparks.org or www.calusablueway.com 14 FORT MYERS/ | JUNE 2019 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

Format

Time 7 am Check-in & Breakfast 8:30 am Shotgun Start

GOLF TOURNAMENT

CULTURAL CENTER CHARITY

Place Riverwood Golf Club 4100 Riverwood Drive Port Charlotte, FL 33953

Entry Deadline Thursdayâ€”Noon June 20, 2019

Awards Reception Tournament and other prize winners will be announced during a delicious luncheon following game play.

4-Person Scramble; Minimum one drive per player; Prizes for first place team and 50/50! Mulligans are $5; maximum two per player per nine.

Entry Fees $85 per player includes: green fees, cart fees, continental breakfast, luncheon (BBQ Ribs, Fried Chicken, Sides and Dessert), two beverage tickets, certificate for reduced rate on a future round and BOGO drink certificates for Riverwood Grill.

NEW CAR or $100K CASH for Hole-in-one. Other awards for closest to pin and longest drive. Mini-games include Buy-Buy-Birdie and Skirts.

www.theculturalcenter.com

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINE | FT. MYERS/ | JUNE 2019 | FORT MYERS 15

Let’s Take it Outside

by Misty Wells

he Key West Marlin Tournament has been a long-standing annual tradition since 1982 when the tournament first began. True to Key West tradition, the party never ends because this Tournament takes place during the historic Hemmingway Days. The tournament starts with a legendary Captains’ party on July 17th and is then followed by 3 days of fishing in the Keys with the final day on July -20th. Don’t let the name fool you, we are catching a lot more than just marlin, so you really need to bring your “A” game. How this tournament works is you earn points for the catch & release fish, marlin and sailfish and earn points per lbs. at weigh-in for species like dolphin, wahoo and tuna. The tournament has a new presenting sponsor this year, Stock Island Marina Village and it will be held there this year. Teams come from everywhere to participate in this tournament not just for the $50,000 in cash and prizes, but also the bragging rights and the “glass”. I sat at the Conch Republic with Tim Greene one of the founding fathers of what I call “Florida’s funnest tourna-

ments” and over a few cold ones he shared the tournaments rich history, it’s up’s and down’s, and changes over the past 37 years. I quickly came to realize that for Tim this is more than just an event or tournament, it is part of who he is and the legacy he is leaving for his beloved Keys. Tim is no slouch on the rod, he has not only won the Tournament, he has been known to bend a few rods on some nice fish all over the world. Because you are fishing for so many species you really need to be prepared for anything, you can never have too much fishing tackle, right? Here’s a few secrets I have uncovered that might help give you an edge; #1 tip is getting Hilton’s Offshore. It’s a Navionics program that gives you sea temps, altimetry, currents and watercolor. If you don’t know much about this program, you need to learn. I can assure you it does matter and saves you a lot of wasted fuel. Next, I have found the 2 best lure colors that have consistently placed and won the tournament, blue and white and pink and white. You need to have these two-color combos on board and make sure you are running your spread correctly. Rods and Reels- make sure you have Quality over Quantity ..... please visit https://coastalanglermag.com/fort-myers/ to read the conclusion of the article. Misty Wells, Host of “Let’s Take It Outside” Radio show & video series Tampa Bay Times Outdoors, Outdoor Pro Writer & Adventure Guide. Founder of “A Reel Future” non-profit organization devoted to knowledge, conservation & the passion of fishing to foster kids. www.mistywells.com

16 FORT MYERS/ | JUNE 2019 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

Offshore with Capt. Tom by Capt. Tom Bailas

he Red Snapper species is just about on every angler’s wish list this month. First, let’s go over the dates for the 2019 red snapper season, as they change every year. Recreational anglers will be able to catch their bag limit from June 11th through July 12th. Federally permitted charter boats will be able to fish for their bag limit from June 1st through Aug 1st season this year. I will start by going over the tricks and techniques for catching your limit on tasty red snapper. The best places to target them is on live bottom, ledges, and good structure areas. I like to start in at least 120 feet and work my way to 170 feet. The tackle of choice is 40-60 lbs. of conventional gear. If the weather allows drifting, then dropping your line to the bottom is a great way to fish the live bottom areas. When you are fishing a ledge or structure the best bet is to anchor up and chum. Red snapper are very curious and will rise almost to the surface. Another great bonus to catching red snapper up high in the water column is they don’t have to be vented nearly as much and the risk of them dying

is reduced. Red snapper are not fussy either and will eat just about anything. You can use pinfish, cigar minnows, sardines, squid or fresh cut Bonita. All of these will work great. I personally like to fish with 40lb conventional gear with as light of a sinker that the depth and current will allow. A 50lb leader and a 7/0 circle hook works great. If you’re up to a challenge you can use a 20lb spinning gear when the fish are up in the chum slick. Make sure you properly handle the snapper that you are releasing back due to size. You should use a venting tool on the fish to release the air out of the bladder. We just purchased our Federal Reef and Pelagic Permits and will be offering deep water and Red Snapper charters. Book now, as the dates are filling up. Remember to always follow state and federal regulations. Be courteous of other boaters and keep only what you can eat. Always be courteous to other boaters and keep your distance if fishing the same area as other boats. The gulf is a large body of water and there are many areas to fish. Happy Fishing!! Charter fishing from Venice, FL is home to some of the best fishing anywhere! You can reach Capt. Tom at 941-587-2028 or at www.tntfishingchartersvenice.com or follow on FB @ tntchartersvenice specializing in Family Friendly Fishing Adventures.

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The Best Angler Photos From Southwest Florida!

Capt. Tom Bailas is keeping his clients happy! Mike had to leave the wife home to get the winner LOL, 8.4#, Lake Hardee.

Harry Daniels, 32 1/2” gag grouper w/ Captain Brian on the Double Trouble.

Luke Nicklas and a pretty 12” Mozambique Tilapia, 2lbs.

Denny Beland showing off a 5.5 lbs 20” sheepshead, Marco Island.

Russ Foster, 22” black drum near Panther Key in 10,000 Islands.

Capt. James Vadas getting his junior anglers hooked up!

Matthew Duerksen’s first big snook, 25”, in the Everglades backcountry. A nice Charlotte Harbor red caught by Joe Sheaffer.

Photos submitted Courtesy of Coastal Angler Readers and Contributing Writers 24 FORT MYERS/ | JUNE 2019 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

RIGGING & JIGGING

Fish Where Fish Live Tim Barefoot

hatever you fish for, be it fresh or saltwater, you know where you should be fishing. But sometimes it can be frightening to cast into the heart of a snag or brushpile where the fish are, knowing you might lose whatever you have tied on. Here’s a simple way to avoid getting hung up. With the following snag-resistant rig, you can present a bait to the fish

where they live instead of trying to lure them out of their hiding place. I’m not saying this tackle is immune to mazes of mangrove roots or treetops, but it greatly reduces the chances of getting hung up. Protect the hook point with a fluorocarbon weed guard, and you can fish more effectively in thick cover. This method works with J hooks, circle hooks and some lures. I’ve been using this technique to make a weedless soft-plastic shrimp, and there are countless other applications. One of my favorite and most effective ways to use this is with a single hook, no weight and a live bait in shallow water. It also works well on a circle hook chin weight under a sliding cork over really rough bottom. Sometimes you have to go in the cover or drift just above it to get the bite. Most gamefish attack from be-

low, so a bait on a sliding cork is the ultimate target while staying out of snags. Here are the steps to snelling a weed guard onto the shank of the hook. I like the stiffness of Seagar 80-pound fluoro for weed guards. Depending on your application, other lines might work fine also. Make sure to choose a hook with an eye that will accept two pieces of the weed guard and the leader you are snelling. 1) Cut about 6 inches of 80-pound fluoro and bend it backward against the curve of the spool. This will mold the shape of your weed guard. 2) Insert both tag ends through the backside of the hook eye, leaving an inch of the doubled 80-pound fluoro on the shank of the hook. 3) Pass a leader line down through the eye of the hook and the center of the tag ends of the 80-pound fluoro. Pull out about 6 or 8 inches. 4) Holding the weed guard securely on the hook shank, make a 5- or 6-loop snell over the 80-pound fluoro, going forward toward the eye of the hook. DO NOT pull down hard on it right away. 5) Keeping the 80-pound fluoro straight on the hook shank, gently roll into place and push forward BEFORE pulling down hard to “cinch” the snell. 6) After everything is pulled up tight, trim the 80-pound fluoro off just behind the barb of the hook. Also, trim the doubled 80-pound fluoro close behind the snell. For a video tutorial on tying this rig, visit my website www. barefootcatsandtackle.com and watch the videos “Snag Resistant Circle Hook Chin Weight” or “Making The Weedless Shrimp.”

For video instructions on how to tye this rig, see:

BAREFOOTCATSANDTACKLE.COM

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Franchise Ownership! If you’re a veteran, love the outdoors and have been looking for a way to own your own business, we believe we have the perfect fit for your next professional endeavor. We have franchise locations available thoughout the continental U.S. and Hawaii. Our success with helping veterans to learn to publish their own localized fishing/ outdoor magazine leads us to believe that our franchise opportunities are a perfect fit for a wide variety of veteran talents and training. Now, with our special Veteran’s Program, owning a Coastal Angler or The Angler Magazine franchise has never been easier. If you love the outdoors and have ever considered owning your own business, you owe it to yourself to check out our Franchise opportunities and our new Veteran’s Program.

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C-Hawk 23 Center Console

Length: 22’4” Beam: 8’ Draft: 12” Weight: 2430 lb. Cockpit Depth: 22”

Fwd—20” Aft

Fuel Capacity: 66 Gal C-Hawk’s philosophy is to keep it simple. Many of the company’s models are workboats, built to withstand conditions harsher than most recreational boats will ever experience. Yet the design of all their boats— recreational and commercial—is enhanced by proven construction methods and craftsmanship that produce a battleship-tough vessel. The goal of each employee is to provide a quality product and many years of boating pleasure. The C-Hawk 23 Center Console’s good looks hide the toughness of a battle-ready fishing machine. With a 14-degree deadrise hull, it shows off C-Hawk’s capabilities with a smooth ride in rough waters. This versatile boat is designed to be equally at home in bays, inlets and flats as well as offshore. It’s got an expansive casting platform and plenty of room to move around, while the large console offers a ton of storage space. The electronics box, switch panel and instrument panel give you all the control you need. Add a T-Top and you’ve got a boat that’ll protect you from the elements, as well. The flat washboard appeals to commercial fisherman, and with a long list of optional accessories it makes for an exceptional recreational fishing boat, as well. Add a leaning post with cushion, grab bar and rod holders. C-Hawk can even build one with a larger 95-gallon fuel tank and raw water wash down to enhance your fishing experience.

uffalo aren’t typically thought of as a game fish species. While they are a favorite for bowfishing, many conventional anglers might not even know they exist. Hugh Newman, of Broken Bow, Oklahoma, would likely tell you these slow-moving bottom-feeders are well worth pursuing. He caught the new 66-pound, 3-ounce state record smallmouth buffalo in May, and the fight on 8-pound-test must have been exhilarating. Newman’s tactics might not be the go-to if you choose to target buffalo. They are suckerfish and feed mostly on small bottom-dwelling critters and algae. Typically anglers fishing for buffalo use nightcrawlers, dough baits or cut bait. Newman caught his on a swimbait, while fishing southeast Oklahoma’s Broken Bow Lake. The huge buffalo crushed the existing record of 44 pounds, 2 ounces, which has stood since 2007. IGFA’s All-Tackle World Record for smallmouth buffalo is 82 pounds, 3 ounces. That fish was caught from Athens Lake, Texas in 1993.

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CA Florida is more than fishing. It’s more than anglers sharing their stories at the dock. CCA Florida is a membership-based advocacy organization that unites anglers of all ages and skill levels to bring positive and meaningful change to Florida’s marine resources. The organization’s efforts and outreach aim to holistically support the system, including fisheries management, habitat restoration, water quality and angler access. Following the devastating red tide events in Florida, CCA Florida stepped up to lead recovery efforts for several of the state’s most iconic fisheries, including redfish and snook populations. Partnering with Duke Energy, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and Mote Marine Laboratory, CCA Florida began restocking programs for both species in the spring of 2019, which includes the release of more than 24,000 redfish and 5,000 snook into Florida’s waters. Leadership at Duke Energy and CCA Florida will continue their joint efforts to restock Florida’s waters with future hatchery programs for redfish as well as trout. Over the last five years, CCA Florida has significantly increased habitat and environmental restoration efforts, leading a record number of 11 habitat restoration projects and seven artificial reefs around the state in 2018. Together with CCA National’s habitat program and many partners, these projects have made a positive impact on habitat restoration

and water quality. In the last four years alone, CCA Florida deployed 45 new projects and contributed $650,000 to support habitat restoration and environmental programs. Since 2010, CCA has collaboratively contributed $800,000, which has been leveraged with partners to over $4,500,000 in habitat projects statewide. While habitat and environmental restoration projects play a role, Florida’s water quality continues to be CCA Florida’s highest advocacy priority, and the member-led Water Quality Sub-Committee continues to work on and monitor several resource issues around the state. CCA Florida supports the funding and completion of all Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Project Foundation projects and supported the need for water storage, treatment and conveyance projects north, south, east and west of Lake Okeechobee. Likewise, CCA Florida has vocally supported all Central Everglades Planning Projects. But water quality issues involve more than the Everglades. The organization continues to be engaged in discussions that include septic to sewer conversions, utility infrastructure upgrades, local initiatives such as Brevard County’s IRL Save Our Lagoon Project Plan, Apalachicola River “Water Wars” and much more. More information on water quality efforts is available on ccaflorida.org. Angler access will always be a focus of CCA Florida’s advocacy efforts to ensure a fair take is available today and for generations to come. Efforts have included working with the FWC to reduce boat limits when necessary, implementing policies for guides to ensure trout and redfish populations are sustainable, the reauthorization of the Magnuson-Stevens Act, promoting the use of descending devices and more. As anyone who lives or fishes in Florida, you’ve benefited from CCA’s efforts. As a member and advocate of CCA Florida, you become part of the leading voice for positive and meaningful change to Florida’s marine resources. Become engaged by visiting ccaflorida.org.

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WC has extended several fisheries management conservation measures for red drum, snook and spotted seatrout in areas of southwest Florida impacted by a prolonged red tide that occurred from November 2017 through mid-February 2019. The extension for red drum, snook and spotted seatrout went into effect May 11 and applies from the Pasco-Hernando county line south (including all waters of Tampa Bay) through Gordon Pass in Collier County. Previously approved catch-and-release measures, including no harvest of spotted seatrout over 20 inches, remained in effect through May 10. • Snook and red drum will remain catch-and-release only for an additional year through May 31, 2020. • Spotted seatrout will be catch-and-release only, including no commercial harvest through May 31, 2020. The changes will give these fisheries additional time to recover from red tide. Staff will continue monthly monitoring of local red drum, snook and spotted seatrout populations throughout the coming year to help determine whether these species are rebuilding under the temporary management measures. Staff will also revisit the snook extension in early 2020 to determine if that species may be reopened to harvest earlier than May 31, 2020. Staff has been working with partners including Coastal Conservation Association Florida, Duke Energy and Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium to raise and release red drum and snook into southwest Florida waters to help address red tide impacts. Learn more about these and other fisheries at MyFWC.com/Marine.

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t its May FWC Photo meeting near Tallahassee, FWC approved early season closures for recreationally caught greater amberjack and gray triggerfish in Gulf state waters. The greater amberjack and gray triggerfish recreational closures are consistent with recent federal actions. Greater amberjack closed May 3 to recreational harvest in Gulf state waters and will remain closed in both Gulf state and federal waters through July 31, reopening for the fall Aug. 1 through Oct. 31 season. Gray triggerfish closed to recreational harvest May 11 in Gulf state and federal waters and will remain closed until the federal season reopens. For more on these changes, visit MyFWC.com/Commission and click on “Commission Meetings,” followed by the May 1-2, Tallahassee “Agenda” link.

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By Capt. Terry Fisher

oca Grande Pass on the southwest coast of Florida is home to one of nature’s most spectacular displays. During “The World’s Biggest Tarpon Migration,” Boca Grande Pass offers the best tarpon fishing in the world. Each spring, thousands of these prehistoric fish make their appearance to mate, replenish, grow, and survive their species. It’s the Promised Land for big game hunters looking for the Holy Grail. It is an experience of a lifetime to hook and to land a huge tarpon. Over the years, I have observed only a handful of captains satisfying clients with a fish of a lifetime on a consistent basis. Only about 5 percent (probably less) of all boats fishing the pass experience hooking and catching a tarpon. I decided to hire the most successful guide willing to teach me a technique that works on a consistent basis. I have followed successful guides, and among them chose Capt. Dave Markett of Odessa, Fla. He has had the most hook-ups and catches on a consistent basis of any guide while working the pass. Capt. Dave has been a professional guide for 48 years, and that includes 28 years of fishing Boca Grande Pass. Last month, I met Capt. Dave at the Placida Boat Ramp. Accompanying us was Nadeen Welch, of Coastal Angler Magazine’s Southwest Florida region. Capt. Dave explained the history of tarpon as well as Airline_Ad_CoastalAngler_8-1-14_Layout 1 8/1/14 1:14 PMand Page 1 the development and re-developments of tackle techniques utilized

to catch these monsters. We arrived in the pass at daybreak and were surrounded by tarpon rolling on the surface. Capt. Dave believes the smaller rolling tarpon, from 100 to 125 pounds, are males vying for favor of the larger, 175- to 300-plus-pound) females foraging along the bottom of the pass. Those bigger fish showed up on his sonar. Capt. Dave was quick to point out any and all flaws during and throughout each and every drop into the schools. Any movement of the rod tip during a presentation will cause a school of tarpon to flush like baitfish when spooked. Any wrong presentation will not get a bite. If a presentation is not finessed or natural looking, all bets are off. Nadeen and I hooked and fought six tarpon with an estimated range from 175 to 225 pounds. However, we missed at least a dozen other opportunities to hook and land one. This time of year, there are other techniques utilized to catch tarpon in the waters of southwest Florida, including along beaches and in back areas. Many captains, including myself, are successful in those arenas. However, if one wants to catch huge tarpon in Boca Grande Pass, contact Capt. Dave Markett at (813) 455-3056 or email him at dmarket@aol. com. His website is: captdavemarkett.com. Capt. Terry Fisher owns and operates Fish Face Charters. Contact him at (239) 357-6829, e-mail fishfacecharters@yahoo.com, and check out his website: www.fishfacecharters.com.

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Costa Rica’s

Transition To Summer

By FishingNosara

orthwest Costa Rica’s fishery undergoes an annual change in May. The dorado give way to yellowfin tuna, and it’s a great sign to see these giant yella’ fellas sweep through the area. It’s proof that the white-hot summer bite has begun! Schools of yellowfin come down from the north and are corralled by giant manchas (or pods) of porpoises, which gives the crews of FishingNosara some of the most action-packed trips of the year. The 32-foot Wanderer and Discoverer led the way this month with lots of sailfish releases backed up by some big yellowfin tuna. The marlin bite slowed down after an exceptional Ship of Fools tournament in April, but they are back now. At the end of April, we had

a sweet blue marlin on the Discoverer. The Explorer and Adventurer kept the pressure on the inshore fishery with lots of great catches. These smaller pangas (27-foot and 23-foot, respectively) also scored several sailfish releases, proof you don’t need a big boat to catch big fish in Costa Rica. Legendary North Carolina angler Dan Johnson was fishing hard during the Ship of Fools tournament, and he stuck around for a week after. On the May 9, he scored two nice sailfish on the Explorer. He also had blue marlins in the spread, but they wouldn’t bite. Later he nabbed two grouper and other bottom fish. Feeling adventurous and on a whim, Ms. Elaine Hepburn chartered the Harvester for a five hour trip on March 30. She had never fished before, but with Captain Alex’s help she was catching like an old pro in no time. It’s always a real treat to introduce new anglers to sport fishing, especially when the fish cooperate. On April 14, our friend Leo Folse made his pilgrimage to the mega panga Harvester. Mr. Folse is a serious panga enthusiast that has been following the story of the Harvester since we first acquired the raw hull. He was so impressed with our build and the performance of the 32-foot hull that he purchased two Eduardono hulls for himself. This was his first time to enjoy the Harvester in action, and Leo performed brilliantly with several sailfish releases and a big dorado for the dinner table. It’s great to deliver the goods for this fun-loving Florida angler. Most recently, Mr. Jason Stote joined the Harvester and tipped the scales with potentially the biggest yellowfin tuna of the season, which is pictured here. This monster was followed up by several other big yella’ fellas, which on many other days would be the big fish in the box. Clearly this group will eat well! If you have been reading this report and waiting for the right time to visit, stop reading and call FishingNosara ASAP so we can get you down this summer. Call (904) 591-2161 so we can secure your housing and boats.

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TIPS FROM A PRO

Finding And Fishing Summer Ledges BRANDON LESTER

grew up fishing lakes known for large schools of bass that spend the summer months offshore. When we get into the summer and the water temperature starts hitting 80 degrees, it is a safe bet that fish are going to be on offshore structure like ledges, humps and dropoffs. I start looking on main lake areas, on the lower half of the lake, where most of the good summer ledges are. Using the mapping on my Lowrance electronics, I search for places that top out from 12 to 20 feet and drop down to anywhere from 50-60 feet. Bass will start heading out there when the water gets to 70 degrees, but when it hits 80 they will definitely be out there. They spawn with a water temperature of 62 to 64 degrees, so as the water warms after the spawn they will start heading that way. Some fish stay shallow all year. The ones that move out will definitely be schooled up on the ledges as the temperatures approach 80 degrees. The biggest deal is finding the depth range of the fish. When they first arrive on offshore structure, they like 12 to 17 feet. The longer they’re there, the deeper they’ll move. It could take a week or a month, but they’ll drop down into 18 to 25 feet and

maybe even as deep as 30 feet. To find the depth range of the fish, I will graph and look for the bait and then the fish. Usually I can see the bass on my Raymarine units, but I will often fish around a big school of bait in case the bass are hiding right under the thick bait. If I don’t see bait or bass, I won’t make a cast. Electronics are too good these days to fish places just because there were fish there at some point in the past. I always start with a moving bait, such as a deepdiving crankbait, to see if I can get the fish fired up. The biggest ones in the school will bite a crankbait. I like a Strike King 6XD and 8XD fished on a MHX CB907 cranking rod that I built myself with supplies from Mud Hole. I always put new Mustad hooks on the baits. I prefer #2 KVD Triple Grip trebles. I use 10- to 12-pound Vicious fluorocarbon for the 6XD and 15- to 17-pound on the 8XD. I like a slower 5:4:1 gear ratio reel to help crankbaits dive to their deepest depths. When those fish start grouping up out on the ledges, you can really have a lot of fun. Hundred-fish days are possible, and I get excited just thinking about it. When that water temp gets close to 80, it is time to get out deep and get healthy in a hurry come tournament day.

For more on Lester visit,

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FISH & FISHING 20

Know Your Quarry MARK SOSIN

nglers are frequently guilty of what scientists call anthropomorphism. It’s nothing more serious than giving fish and animals human characteristics. We expect them to behave and react much as we would. Fish are basically creatures of habit. No matter where in the world you catch a specific species, its behavior patterns are similar right down to the battle it wages once it is hooked. All of us have a tendency to overcomplicate fishing and fishing techniques. Our quarry focuses on nothing more than feeding, escaping predation and hanging around long enough to spawn and continue the species. An understanding of these goals and the methods employed to reach them results in more meaningful catches. Those who consistently score well are keen observers of what takes place on the water. Rather than trying to force a fish to accept what they are offering, successful anglers change approaches continuously until they discover what will entice the fish to inhale a bait or lure. It’s a system that works. Simply by looking at the shape of a fish and its tail, you should have a basic concept of the territory it will occupy and its feeding behavior. Bottom species are tailored to live around some form of structure. They are typically slab-sided with broad, full tails that enable them to weave in and out of rocks, reefs and wrecks. Two or three sweeps of their tail drive them forward quickly to gulp an escaping meal, but they won’t follow a potential meal for any distance. The fastest species such as the tunas and marlins have forked tails. These are open-water or pelagic fish shaped to move through the seas easily in a relentless search for food. Fish such as flounder or halibut are destined for a life on the bottom lying in wait for their prey to come to them. Elongated creatures typified by the barracuda charge their prey from ambush with lightning speed or ease along in the water column and strike with a suddenness that defies the human eye. There is always a tradeoff. The faster swimmers tend to lack maneuverability. A grouper can spin on a proverbial dime, while striped bass and bluefish can turn in a tight circle. And, if you look at

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a fish’s mouth, it will give you insight into its feeding habits. The underslung mouth of a bonefish is termed inferior and indicates that bonefish root on the bottom. Redfish have a hard nose and similar mouth with eyes set high on the head. They are built to cover the bottom in areas of low visibility. The protruding lower jaw of the tarpon tells us it is built to strike on the same plane or upward. Understanding how each species feeds is critical in effectively presenting a bait or a lure. That’s why the knowledgeable and observant angler gains an effective edge in catching fish. He remains alert to everything around him and tailors his techniques to the species he seeks. If there are secrets or panaceas for fishing, most of us have never heard them. Consistent catches reflect a total understanding of fish behavior. There are no shortcuts to success.

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Model 1720 Gen III is the latest addition to Action Craft Boats’ successful lineup of flats fishing boats. The new 1720 focuses on the ergonomics of the anglers. The addition of a small bait well in the bow casting platform alleviates the need to move to the stern to rebait while fishing. This small bait well is large enough to hold two dozen shrimp or other small bait and then be replenished from the main bait well. It keeps anglers in the game while cruising mangroves and prevents missed opportunities. To achieve this, the design team moved the redesigned fuel tank from beneath the bow casting platform to under the deck in the stringers. This opened space for the bait well and also provides additional storage space in the large hold in the casting platform. Action Craft has also designed a one-person leaning post and raised helm console to provide a more comfortable helm position. The fold-down bench seat that Action Craft is famous for is now more comfortable and spacious than ever, giving the new 1720 unmatched comfort for the captain and passengers. “The worst part of any flats boat has been the lack of comfort for the helm, especially for tall anglers,” said Steve Washington VP of sales and marketing. “While the small consoles are efficient, they are very uncomfortable to use for longer runs. Looking behind the boat while sitting down is also very difficult to do at speed. Being able to stand at the leaning post allows you to be comfortable and have great visibility.” The 1720 remains easy to trim and run. With the same shallow draft as before, this Gen III 1720 is ready for any inshore fishing and long runs in choppy water. Available in fiberglass and Kevlar hybrid, each boat is made to order. The leaning post and raised helm console can be ordered for all Action Craft’s flats boats, 17’ and above. For taller anglers, the leaning post can be ordered specifically to your height requirements.

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or 2019, the daily bag limit is two gallons of whole bay scallops in-shell or one pint of scallop meat per person. With a maximum vessel limit of 10 gallons whole or one-half gallon of meat. Direct transit of legally harvested bay scallops through closed areas is allowed. Bay scallops may only be harvested in state waters from the following zones: St. Joseph Bay and Gulf County: Aug. 16Sept. 15. Franklin County through northwestern Taylor County: July 1-Sept. 24. This region includes all state waters from the westernmost point of St. Vincent Island in Franklin County to Rock Island near the mouth of the Fenholloway River in Taylor County. The remaining portion of Taylor County and all of Dixie County: June 15-Sept. 10. This region includes all state waters east of Rock Island near the mouth of the Fenholloway River in Taylor County and north of Alligator Pass daybeacon #4 near the mouth of the Suwannee River in Levy County. Levy, Citrus and Hernando counties: July 1-Sept. 24. This region includes all state waters south of Alligator Pass daybeacon #4 near the mouth of the Suwannee River in Levy County and north of the Hernando – Pasco county line. Pasco County: July 19-28. This region includes all state waters south of the Hernando – Pasco county line and north of the Anclote Key Lighthouse in northern Pinellas County, and includes all waters of the Anclote River.

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t this year’s Marine Fabricators Conference in Long Beach, Cali., Llebroc Industries was awarded another accolade for a line of chairs widely regarded as the finest helm chairs on the market. Llebroc’s SX Helm Chair with Tidal Wave Technology received a 2019 Fabrication Excellence Award for design excellence in marine fabric applications. From a pool of 90 entries, winners were selected by a panel of certified Master Fabric Craftsmen based on complexity, design, workmanship, uniqueness and function. Llebroc’s winning entry, designed and fabricated by Bryan Corbell with project manager Greg Carman, definitely met the goal of a functional SX model helm chair that achieved a high-end automotive appearance. The SX chair required development of a specialized molded back as well as an extensive amount of fabric, foam and starboard engineering that included quilted material sewn in conjunction with flat fabric. The overall engineering was unique and complex, with 3-D modeling and CAD used in the development stages. The project began with Tidal Wave anti-pinking marine vinyl to provide a solution and warranty against pink staining. The vinyl had to be compatible with quilting and foam lamination. The seat construction started with CNC cut foam and each piece was engineered for an exact fit before the vinyl was installed. The vinyl was also CNC cut to match each foam piece prior to fabrication for an exact fit and finish.

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ith this month’s Spring Into Savings sales event, Evinrude has made a tremendous offer on the cleanest, most powerful outboards in the world. The innovation and performance of the E-TEC engines gives boaters confidence in any situation. From the small but powerful 15 H.O. all the way up to the white-knuckle-inducing 300 HP E-TEC G2, Evinrude’s daringly inventive outboards outperform everything else in the market. What else could you expect from the original inventor and continuous re-inventor of the outboard engine? Evinrude refused to compromise and drift along with the rest of the industry. With the innovative fuel-delivery technology in their direct injection system, they developed two-strokes that burn more efficiently. The result is a two-stroke that is quieter, cleaner, more fuel efficient and more powerful than comparable four-strokes. Evinrude outperforms the competition and they are not shy about it. The E-TEC G2 is a powerful engine designed to muscle through big water and take you offshore quickly and efficiently. With up to 30 percent more torque, its throttle response is unmatched. It’ll put you on plane quicker with the power to pin you to your seat. And all that muscle in the E-TEC G2 is cleaner and leaner thanks to Evinrude’s Engine Management Module, which brings computer-controlled precision to fuel injection. By delivering exactly the amount of fuel needed to the engine, the system provides amazing fuel efficiency to go along with instant throttle response and smooth quiet performance. It has up to 15 percent better fuel efficiency, which will keep dollars in your wallet and extend your range. It’s also the planet’s cleanest outboard. With unbelievably low hydrocarbon emissions, no out-

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hft_coastalangler_0619_M-REG163328.indd 1

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