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FISH OF A LIFETIME IN SOUTHWEST ALASKA By Tom Schlichter
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o one has to tell you a halibut has taken your bait. As you set the hook with all your might, the heavy rod takes on a full bend, tip pumping rapidly as the beast powers down and away in a series of short, explosive bursts. Within minutes, beads of sweat begin to roll down your brow, and soon your back and arms begin to tire. The battle continues for another five to 10 minutes—or longer— and the enormity of the fish at the end of your line becomes apparent. This is the fish of a lifetime. This is why you came to Alaska! What saltwater angler hasn’t fantasized about taking such a trip? Yet there’s more to the beautiful, chilly waters in the far Northwest than outlandish flatfish. Ferocious-looking lingcod, giant, bright orange shortrakers, yelloweyes and other rockfish are also on the menu, as are king, coho and chum salmon, whether jigged or trolled in open water or tempted with the long rod in a river so full of fish you could walk across the dorsal fins. From breaching whales and soaring bald eagles to grizzly bears, sea lions, otters and endless miles of wild, unspoiled vistas, nature abounds in the forty-ninth state. Of course, where to start is a major questions you’ll need to tackle when planning your first Alaska fishing adventure. By and large, Southeast Alaska is the first choice if you are seeking major-league halibut. From the town of Ketchikan northwest up the coast to Chichagof Island, there are fishing lodges to accommodate your needs in such towns as Sitka, Juneau, Elfin Cove and Gustavus, plus places from which the most adventurous can set out on their own. One of the most popular spots is Tanaku Lodge. At the northwest corner of the famed Inside Passage, it’s tucked inside Elfin Cove, about 25 miles west of Glacier Bay National Park. From here you can get a terrific sampling of Alaska’s great coastal fishery, while seeing astounding amounts of wildlife and enjoying your stay in comfort. “The fishing is always great around here,” said Dennis Meier, co-owner of Tanaku Lodge with Jim Benton. “That’s a given, but we pride ourselves on making the entire experience the best it can be. Our skippers and mates are tops in the business, our lodge staff is helpful and courteous, and you’ll find the accommodations here to be first class all the way around. We may be off the beaten track, but that doesn’t mean we compromise on quality.” Tanaku is a full-service lodge with all-wood interior, vaulted ceilings, and wood burning stoves to keep you warm. Bedroom suites feature two full-sized beds and either a shared or private bath. Huge, wrap-around windows and outdoor decks offer fabulous views of the harbor. You don’t even have to bring foul-weather gear, as slicks and boots are provided for each angler. Leave your tackle home, too; the lodge offerings are in excellent shape and a perfect match to fishing you’ll encounter.
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As for the fishing, there are so many possibilities it can make your head spin. Halibut is the perfect first choice, since big ones can be found just a short ride away. Prepare to fish heavy and in water depths of 130 to 150 feet, though. Expect rods and reels suited for tuna and cannonball weights up to 2 pounds with a herring, pink salmon strip or side of pink salmon for bait. Even with all that heavy gear, a big halibut can still kick your butt. If you want to make things even more exciting (read: strenuous) try tempting these beasties with 1-pound jigs. It took me only 10 minutes of jigging in the Inside Passage to set the point to a 90-pound brute that beat the heck out of me before coming aboard. Over the next two days, I managed four more on jigs as we rotated between fishing for halibut, salmon and rockfish, depending on the most favorable tides. What a blast! As previously mentioned, salmon fishing is the other big draw here. While stocks of kings and cohos have slipped somewhat over the past few years, the number of king (Chinook), coho (silver) and pink (humpy) salmon is substantial. Anglers can troll for salmon, jig them, or set up a trip to wade a nearby river and catch them on the fly. Wherever you decide to stay on your Alaskan adventure, it’s wise to clearly state your wishes when booking a trip—especially if you hope to sample river salmon fishing or want to try for additional species like lingcod, shortrakers and various other rockfish. Not all are available from every lodge. While there are occasional off days even in this remarkable fishing wilderness—weather can be a serious issue late in the season—the odds are you’ll experience some of the best fishing of your life.
For information on Tanaku Lodge in Elfin Cove, AK, visit www.tanakulodge. com, or phone: 800-482-6258.
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Photo courtesy of Controlled Descent Lures By Nick Carter
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pearfishers seeking a little variety in their bottom time should take a close look at the waters off New England. You won’t find warm tropical waters off the Northeast coast, but you will find a freediving experience unlike any other. Destinations like Montauk, N.Y. and Block Island, R.I. have long been recognized for some of the best striped bass fishing on the planet. The bass blitzes around Long Island Sound are legendary, and huge schools of stripers in these rocky waters offer conventional anglers and spearos the opportunity of a lifetime. Matt Belanger, of Newburyport, Mass., is one of a growing contingent of divers hooked on what New England has to offer. He’s a member of TriState Skindivers, and a big 54.2-pound striped bass he speared off
Block Island in July topped the club’s season-long TriState Leaderboard Spearfishing Tournament. “The striper is sort of our signature inshore species,” Belanger said. “It’s a very skittish fish. A lot of guys say they can hear your heartbeat. You’ve got to be really stealth when you go after a big striper.” Belanger’s description of a typical dive was intriguing. With a 50- to 60-foot bottom littered with Volkswagen-sized boulders, strong currents and visibility averaging 10 feet, it’s a different environment from Caribbean reef dives. The veil of dingy water actually makes hunting stripers easier. On the drop, you fin down through a school of striped bass to the bottom. “You’re in the middle of a giant school of hundreds of fish,” Belanger said. “Then, when you hit the bottom, they always spook… all at once. It’s crazy. It makes this big noise, almost a boom.” The secret to sticking a big bass is bottom time. After about 25 seconds, Belanger said the school begins to reconvene. Then you must spend precious seconds selecting a target from hundreds of circling fish, while minimizing movement and sound that might spook them. The goal is to take the largest fish in the school. You’re allowed only one fish per day with a 28-inch minimum size limit. A 28-inch striped bass weighs 10 to 15 pounds. They get much bigger. The IGFA all-tackle world record weighed 81-pounds, 14-ounces. It was caught from Long Island Sound off Connecticut. The speargun world record weighed 68.4 pounds. Dave Hochman, who guides Block Island Sound, stuck that fish in 2008. Hochman is the guide who put Belanger on the big striper he killed in this year’s tournament. If one fish per day seems scant to travel for, there’s a lot of excellent eating on a big striper. Also, when you get your limit—with speargun or rod and reel—there are other interesting and tasty species like tautog, black sea bass, fluke and others. A word of warning: Area waters can get sharky, with great whites a concern. A good captain will know where shark encounters are least likely. For information, contact Dave Hochman of Spear-it Charters through his website at www.spearfishcharters.com.
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SHRINK WRAPPING
By Justin Witt
T
he Rio Pico region of Chubut province, Argentina is known to a select and adventurous few as the best big-trout country in all of Patagonia. Comprised of an immense network of lakes and drainages flowing through the Andes of southwestern Argentina, these waters are spectacular, and they’re as far off the beaten path as it gets. The diversity of the fishery is astounding. The area hosts an almost unbelievable quantity of waters in all shapes and sizes, and the region is known for trout that reach “unusual size” in pristine water with very little fishing pressure. “It was incredible. I was fishing dry flies up a little spring creek for trout as long as my leg,” said Greg Baugus, who visited the remote
area with Hemispheres Unlimited, an agency specializing in fishing trips of a lifetime. But spring creeks are not all Rio Pico has to offer. Rainbows, brookies and browns were introduced over a century ago and can be pursued with a wide variety of tackle and techniques. From large lakes and rivers to high-elevation trickles, anglers have the option to throw dry flies on delicate tippets, chuck 6-inch streamers on a heavy sink-tip line, or nymph any day of the week. It all boils down to personal preferences, and it’s all done within the gorgeous expanses and dramatic backdrop of the Andes. Some spots are numbers games, with consistent action for what in Patagonia amounts to smallish fish—fish that would be considered large almost anywhere else in the world. Most folks come down hunting bruisers, though, the photo fish, the monsters that stand out in truly amazing adventures. Hemispheres Unlimited offers perfect trips for those seeking adventure. Their Rio Pico Trout Bum program pairs anglers with local guides who grew up on these drainages and know them like the backs of their hands. It’s a unique, low-cost option for anglers more interested in fishing than luxury lodging. There’s no mint on the pillow, for sure. Instead, the Hemispheres Unlimited team makes certain preparations are in place so you can make the most of your time pursuing the fish that brought you to Argentina in the first place. Accommodations for the Trout Bum program are best described as authentic, in true, local, Patagonia style. Unless there is a specific need for backcountry camping, groups usually lodge at local hospedajes, either in town or out on one of the waters. Each spot has its own characteristics, advantages and style, and Hemispheres helps each group choose the best option for their desires. The program can be set up in a wide variety of styles, ranging from boat fishing every day of the trip to mixed trips with easier wading, all the way to more extreme hike-in and camp expeditions. For more information on the Rio Pico Trout Bum program and everything else Hemispheres Unlimited offers, go to hemispheresunlimited. com/blog/diving-mizpah.
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Photo courtesy of www.sfctravel.com
By CAM Staff
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nglers seeking stellar offshore fishing, including the best Atlantic blue marlin fishing on the planet should book passage to Cape Verde. This island nation about 350 miles off northwest Africa is a horseshoe cluster of 10 islands and eight islets that are a popular tourist destination for Europeans. The fishery is renowned for the consistency of big blue marlin. Billfish Report ranked it best in the world for 500-plus-pound blues, edging out venerable Kona, Hawaii by the numbers in its annual rankings based on 2018 statistics. Last years numbers were 110 blue marlin heavier than 500 pounds, including a 900-plus-pounder and one grander, which stretched the scales to 1,037 pounds. It’s the kind of place where releasing three marlin heavier than 500 pounds in a day is considered possible… because it happens. With big-game fishing this good, the marlin fishing is obviously the headliner. It’s best from April through July, with March and August usually being good as well. It’s a happy coincidence that this time frame coincides with the best seasons for yellowfin tuna, sailfish, wahoo and dorado. Four islands, Sao Nicolau, Sao Vincente, Santo Antao and Maio, harbor most of the medium-sized recreational fleet. The channel between Sao Vincente and Santo Antao is the epicenter of this international hot-spot for blues. For more information, go to www.capeverdeislands.org.
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These coastal fishing communities are nestled right in the heart of one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. The saltwater fishing, both inshore and offshore, is probably the most popular attraction for the area and with good reason… it’s epic! A host of charter captains and crews wait to take you on the fishing expedition of your dreams. Deep blue water for sailfish, king mackerel, mahi and more is easily accessible. If the deep blue isn’t your thing, the inshore choices include redfish, speckled trout, tripletail, tarpon and so much more. If you’ve never experienced a redfish crushing a topwater plug, you’re missing out! With all these fishing options, it’s a rare occasion that weather will prevent you from feeling a fish tug your line. Don’t overlook the freshwater fishing that the Apalachicola River and its many tributaries offer those in search of bass, bream, catfish and more. In the lower reaches of this coastal river system, anglers often catch bass and redfish in the same day. Advanced and beginner paddlers will find exactly what they’ve been looking for in a paddling adventure. It’s almost like kayaks were invented for this place. With paddler’s trails, launches, amenities and events, you won’t find a more exciting, scenic and wild place to skim across the water. But wait, there’s more! Visitors will find the area full of fun and exciting things to do besides fishing. Experience old Florida how it used to be along our gorgeous beaches or explore a museum or old lighthouse. Birdwatch on hiking trails. Paddle down a lazy stretch of river or backwater. There’s something for everyone here… and don’t forget oysters! Here are some fishing tips for anyone coming down soon. If you’re after redfish and trout, you’re in luck… the fall bite can be amazing! If Photo courtesy of Robinson Brother’s Guide Service. the weather is mild, cast a topwater plug like a Rapala Skitterwalk or visit to Franklin County’s coast is like going back in time. Places a sub-surface plug like a Mirrodine. If it’s cooler than usual, a small jig like Apalachicola, East Point, Alligator Point, St. George Island tipped with live shrimp or Berkley Gulp will produce best. Live shrimp will and Carrabelle offer the experience of a simpler time, a time catch just about anything that swims and is the surest bet for getting bit. when folks gather around an oyster bar for great seafood, a cold beverage and conversations about the day’s catch or what tomorrow’s fishing For more info and a complete list of rentals, charters, supplies and trip might have in store. more, visit www.floridasforgottencoast.com.
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Spoon-Fed Stripers At Santee Cooper By Capt. Cefus McRae, Nuts & Bolts of Fishing Series
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t’s been a long time since I fished South Carolina’s Santee Cooper lakes. Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie are world famous for mondo catfish and crappie, and they are vibrant striped and largemouth bass fisheries, as well. Recently, I attended the South Carolina Outdoor Writer’s Conference, held at Black’s Fish Camp, and had the honor to fish with two iconic Santee Cooper guides: Capt. Leroy Suggs and Capt. Charlie King. Each morning, I was treated to breakfast at Black’s Restaurant while the captains prepped their boats with tackle and a livewell full of blue-
back herring. After a short run down the lake, we would set four to six downline rods with live baits and drift near actively working seagulls. The striper schools would show up on the sonar, and we would typically boat three or four fish before the school would break up or move. This is the way many anglers fish for stripers. It’s very effective. Even though the calendar said October, the air temperature said July, with temps in the mid-90s. The water surface temperature hovered near 85 degrees. By the time the sun cleared the treetops, the fish went deep, and the bite all but stopped. We could see fish on the sonar, but their enthusiasm to eat a herring diminished as the sun got higher. Coincidentally, one of the sponsors of the conference was Live Target Lures, and they had put a few sample baits in each attendees’ goodie bag. My bag had a Live Target Flutter Shad jigging spoon in it. When the live bait bite slowed, I figured it was as good a time as any to try out the spoon. Upon dropping it over the side, I noticed the bait’s erratic, fluttering descent. With 12-pound braid on a light spinning rod, I could feel the spoon’s movement all the way down. The same applied to the jigging retrieve. You could feel the spoon when lifting the rod and when reeling it back to the surface. On the second drop, the spoon went to the bottom, and as I lifted the rod, the line came tight. There was a noticeable thump that peeled drag. After a gallant fight, a slot-sized striper came to the landing net. When the third drop produced another fish, everyone in the boat started jigging as well. My theory is that when active feeding time passed, the stripers were hanging out in cooler, oxygen-rich deep water until they got hungry again. Our spoons were likely drawing reaction strikes as they fluttered past the fish’s noses. Although I couldn’t see what our herring were doing 40 feet below the boat, my guess is they were just sitting there, without the bite-generating action of the spoon. We caught more than 50 fish each day, with the majority being caught on a jigging spoon. I’ve always been a believer in jigging spoons. Now I’ve experienced first-hand that spoons can turn the bite back on.
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LAKES HIWASSEE
Trophy Striper Season on Lake Hiwassee
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By Shane Goebel
all is for striper fishing, and November is a fantastic time to hit the water for some big, big stripers. November kicks off the start of monster trophy season in this area and Lake Hiwassee offers some fast pace striper action. If you want some huge 30 to 50 pounders, it’s definitely time to hit the water! So, after filling up on that yard bird, grab your favorite rod and book a trip with Murphy, NC’s #1 and only fulltime striper guide: Big Ol’ Fish Guiding Service. We’ve been striper fishing these mountain lakes longer than anyone and have what it takes to put you on some huge fish. Currently, Lake Hiwassee is 19 feet below full pool. Water clarity is clear and water temps are in the low 70s. Striper fishing has been extremely excellent. We’re still catching tons and tons of stripers right now. These fish have been schooled up and we’ve been wearing them out. Just in the past couple of weeks, we’ve already had several 30 to 44 pounders. The early-morning and evening bites are your best times to see action. With the cooling water temps, continue to target creek mouths and points off the main lake channel but also look for schools to move back into the creeks. The majority of our fish
have been caught from Point 6 to the dam. The top-water bite has picked up a bit, so keep a spook or a Red Fin at the ready to snag surface-busting fish. The fish will continue to be schooled up throughout the next month and will remain in deeper water before starting to spread out in their typical winter pattern. Just remember to keep an eye on your electronics and watch for schools of stripers when cruising the lake. November is a fantastic month for catching some big fish on this lake. From smallmouth bass to hard fighting stripers, there are many great opportunities to catch a number of fish species on Hiwassee Lake. Give Big Ol’ Fish Guiding Service a call and let the area’s #1 rated guide service put you on some of Lake Hiwassee’s best trophy fish. We are Murphy, NC’s only full-time guide service, specializing in striped and hybrid bass. We also serve Lake Nottely, Chatuge and Blue Ridge. And for all your live blueback herring and tackle needs, check out Hughes General Store in Blairsville, GA. They carry everything you need for a successful day of fishing. So, come fish with the pros for the opportunity to be featured in Angler Magazine, and let us help you get your fish on!
Shane Goebel is the Owner of Big Ol’ Fish Guiding Service and a member of The Angler Fishing Team. Contact him at www.bigolfish. com or (828) 361-2021 / 1-(844)-4-ANGLER
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GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS & THE UPSTATE 3
Cool Weather Smallmouth in the WNC Mountains
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am excited to be writing again after a month away (last month’s deadline snuck up on me, and I missed it due to a trip to the Charleston area). I am also enthusiastic about the cooler temperatures we’ve started experiencing this week (midOctober), and they have got me thinking about one of my favorite things on earth: the late fall/winter smallmouth bite. While the invasion and takeover of the spotted bass has almost eradicated the smallmouth from many of its traditional waters in the western part of North Carolina, we are blessed to still have them in abundance in our area (as long as the spots are kept somewhat under control), and the absolute best time to fish for them is in the winter. In fact, while we catch smallmouth year round, the November-March timeframe is inarguably and definitively the best time to pursue them, for a
By Aaron Kephart
number of reasons. One of the primary reasons I enjoy pursuing smallmouth this time of year is because they are a cold water species to start with, and their metabolism is not as severely impacted by cooler water temps as, say, a largemouth would be. In fact, they can be impressively aggressive until the water dips below 40 or so degrees, far below what many of our other local species find comfortable. Another reason I love this time of year is that smallmouth are at their physical heaviest and healthiest this time of year, which means not only do they weigh more, but they are easier to release. As many of you know, my trips are 100 percent catch and release on all largemouth and smallmouth bass, and cold water makes these fish much hardier and tougher than high water temperatures. Two more reasons I love fishing for smallmouth during this
timeframe is that they are grouped up, and in predictable locations. Smallmouth begin congregating when the water dips into the 60s in the fall, and they will stay grouped up until they begin their annual spawning rituals. They also tend to get in predictable and repeatable locations, some of which I will not share for free. However, typical places to start looking are bluff ends, creek or river channel bends, and the ends of points. Weather can play a pivotal role in this style of fishing, so what are “perfect” weather conditions for pursuing smallmouth this time of year? A perfect day would be a cold, overcast, calm day; one where you think it could start snowing at any time. For some reason, the super low barometric pressure that accompanies that type of weather seems to really intensify the smallmouth bite. A
close second would be a warmerthan-average, somewhat choppy, day with big puffy clouds. That tends to draw the fish up in the water column, as they can sense that warmer surface layer, but the wind and barometric pressure are not too high to spook them. The worst conditions are exceptionally cold, windy, no cloud in the sky, “bluebird” days. You can and will still catch fish in those conditions, but you will have to work harder for them. If you would like to learn more about winter locations, tactics, and lure/bait selection for winter smallmouth, or just want to put a bunch of them in the boat, you can book a trip with me by calling 865466-1345. I would love to spend a winter day on the lake with you fishing for one of the finest gamefish that swims.
Aaron Kephart is the Owner of Mountain Lakes Guide Service. To book a guided trip on one of the Murphy area mountain lakes, contact him by phone or by email at mtnlakesguide@outlook.com Checkout his website at http://www.mtnlakesguideservice.comand catch him on facebook@ mountainlakesguideservice
Murphy North Carolina’s
premier trophy smallmouth and spotted bass guide service
Mountain Lakes Guide Service
Hiwassee - Apalachia - Chatuge Aaron Kephart 865-466-1345 mtnlakesguide@outlook.com
Crappie, Trophy Trout, Stripers, and more available 4 GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS & THE UPSTATE
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LAKE CHATUGE
Lake Chatuge Hybrids and Spots with Big Ol’ Fish Guiding Service
F
By Darren Hughes
all fishing is wide open out here on this awesome Western North Carolina Lake. The cooler water temperatures have really got these big fish feeding. Currently, Lake Chatuge is 7 feet below full pool. Water temps are in the mid 70s, and water clarity is clear throughout the lake. Hybrid fishing has been great. These fish are still schooling in large numbers, and we are catching some big quantities. These are some of Lake Chatuge’s hardest-fighting fish, and we’re having a blast wearing them out. The early morning and mid-afternoon bite has been prime. Look for schools of fish along the main channel and off points. Downlining live blueback herring has been the best technique. Fish will be slightly shallower in the early morning hours and will move to deeper water by mid-morning. With the cooling water temps, the top-water bite has picked up considerably. When these fish start busting on bait, it’s always a good idea to have a plug, spook, or red fin at the ready. As the month pro-
gresses, these hybrids will work their way back into the creeks and spread out. Time to break out the ol’ planer boards. Spotted bass fishing remains excellent, too. We are still catching some huge spots throughout the day, and it’s not uncommon to put 30-50 of these feisty fish in the boat in one trip. Early morning top-water bite has been strong. Top-water plugs, spooks, and jerk baits have worked well. Our downline bite has also been very productive, especially in the mid-morning hours. Look for fish to be schooled up on shallow clay banks, humps, and off points. In terms of location, the upper end of the lake has been producing slightly better numbers than the lower end. Fall fishing on Lake Chatuge is always exciting. Remember, live bait on this lake can be the difference between a successful day of fishing and a horrid one. For all of your bait and tackle needs, come visit us at Hughes General Store in Blairsville, GA-it’s the best place around for quality live blueback herring. We also carry ethanol-free gas and have some of the best hot, made-
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from-scratch biscuits in North GA. For guided fishing trips on Lakes Chatuge, Hiwassee, or Nottely, or questions about the bait shop, call me, Darren Hughes, at Hughes General
Store. And whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, give Chatuge a shot for some of the best, spotted bass and hybrids in the area. Good luck, and get hooked!
Darren Hughes is the Owner of Hughes General Store & Bait Shop and a member of The Angler Magazine Fishing Team and Guide for Big Ol’ Fish Guiding Service. Look him up at www.bigolfish.com or give him a call, (706) 745-6569 or (828) 361-2021
NOVEMBER 2019
GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS & THE UPSTATE 5
6 GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS & THE UPSTATE
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SWAIN COUNTY / BRYSON CITY
Local Knowledge is Priceless
H
By Ronnie Parris
ey folks, the hot weather is finally behind us and the fishing is heating up. If you have been putting off taking some “me time” and hitting the water now’s the perfect time. If you’re like me, you are always wanting to fish a different lake or stream and you may think you’re a good enough angler that you don’t need help. That’s bit me in the butt several times. Local knowledge of a lake or stream is priceless, whether it’s a helpful hint on the area of the lake the fish are in, the
bait they are hitting the best, or simply how the fish are wanting it presented at whatever time your going to be there. Sometimes, you get lucky and meet someone at the lake who will share some tidbits of information but often times, you will have to contact the local bait shop or the area’s guide service. Even though I can usually catch a few fish on any water, I still depend on people to help and, in turn, I always let them know if I did well, or found anything that might help them. Such was the
Swainglers Are Back case a few weeks ago when I was going to fish Hiwassee for stripers. First, I called Jeremy Seabolt, the top rated guide on Lake Nottely and the owner of his own live bait shop located on 696 Deaver Road, just outside of Murphy. He not only has the bait your gonna need, but is always ready to lend a tip to help get you on the right track. Jeremy told me he had been concentrating on Nottely since the bite had been so good there but said that I should give Aaron Kephart a call. Aaron operates Mountain Lakes Guide Service and, in my
opinion, is the best guide on Hiwassee Lake; He has years of experience on Hiwassee and seems to know where the fish are gonna go before they do themselves. After talking with Aaron, I hit the water and, in no time, was loading the boat with big stripers and spotted bass. Next time you’re gonna hit a new lake, give a local guide or bait shop owner a call, you can’t go wrong with getting pointed in the right direction. Like I said, it’s cooled down but the fishing’s hot, so take a kid and hit the water.
Ronnie Parris is the Owner and Head Guide of Smoky Mountain Outdoors Unlimited-Fontana Lake Fishing Guides, headquartered in Bryson City, North Carolina, heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. (www. smokymountainoutdoorsunlimited.com) (828-488-9711)
Fontana Lake Fishing Guides – Ronnie Parris, Owner & Head Guide LAKE, CREEK & RIVER FISHING • FLY FISHING • CAMPING We offer both full and half day trips with the most competitive rates available. All tackle and supplies you will need while you are on your trip is covered by our listed price.
Trevor Jones, Enoch Franklin and Alex Styles had a great morning on Fontana Lake. Thirty-six anglers swarmed the banks at 288 in midSeptember for our first trip of the school year. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
1012 East Alarka Road, Bryson City, NC • 828-488-9711, Cell: 828-736-9471
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GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS & THE UPSTATE 7
Net the Harvest
N
ovember is associated with Thanksgiving, a time when differences are put aside and grace, and an attitude of forgiveness, rules. At least in our human world, that’s the case. In the piscatorial world, November may very well be a small fishes nightmare month. Gone are the hot days where even aggressive spotted bass lie on the bottom, barely able to rise and suck down a few shad to keep alive. “Listless” describes a lot of the summer fishing. Once the colors are heading out and the nights chill down, every predator starts to stir with hunger pangs, knowing a long winter is ahead. Shad stay towards the surface at times and bunch up in big schools, and that leads to major carnage when met by their spotted or brownie friends. There seems to be the “safety in numbers” train of thought for both predator and prey. This also bodes well for our species when we come in contact with those mentioned above. There is nothing like rounding a bend in a lake to find the surface looking like a boiling pot, complete with pops and splashes, sizzling pods of frightened shad, or herring running for their lives. Sometimes singular, but often aggressive, pods of bass herding, and devouring whatever they can catch in feeding displays that make backlashes occur as if by magic.
By Capt. James McManus
Topwater plugs, like the spooks and chuggers, often work to elicit strikes. If you can’t get bit and fish are breaking all around, you probably haven’t matched the hatch, you may have baits too large so try dropping to a smaller size. Years ago, when white bass would reek havoc at Fontana, a white rooster tail couldn’t be beat. I have also seen big hybrids at Hartwell that wouldn’t eat anything but a small rooster tail or spoon, it just had to be the right size. There have been times when even small baits wouldn’t work and you have to think really small. My favorite thing is to tie two crappie jigs together with one about 12 inches down a leader and the other 18 inches down with a loop knot between. The most frustrating thing can be the ability to get close enough to cast to breaks. Depending on the species, it may take different strategies. Slow moving schools, like threadfin shad, can’t get very far from danger. They are your classic safety in numbers bait and spend time circling rather than straight line fleeing. Your best bet is to get as close as you can to the area and wait them out. The action may be sporadic with blitzing and then nothing, but they have probably just dived for the bottom and will soon be trapped against the surface for another round. Herring, on the
other hand, can move. Once at Hartwell, a school of herring came up right at the boat with a school of stripers right on their tails. Everyone hooked up and I tried to keep up with the school via the trolling motor but the 80 lb 24 volt motor was no match and I had to switch to the big motor. When in this mode I often will keep the big motor running so you don’t waste time starting and stopping, I feel like this constant sound doesn’t bother fish as much as stop and go starts. As a guide, you want to put as many fish in front of your clients as you can. When we get on a school of spots or smallies, it doesn’t seem to make much difference if fish are released or kept. The bait is usually threadfins so they aren’t going far. Stripers or hybrids though may be on herring and, to catch and release the first couple of fish, you may be shooting yourself in the foot. There have been times when a released fish will take off and the whole school follows. That being said, I generally keep
at least the first couple in the live well if I don’t plan to keep any so there won’t be an incentive to follow a freed schoolmate. There is really no better time to be on the water, the crowds are gone, some color remains, fish are hungry, wildlife is moving and around that next bend the pot may be boiling. Have fun, be careful and thankful, and call if you want to catch a few. Later, Capt. James
Capt. James McManus is the Owner of 153 Charters. Give him a call for a great day of boat fishing! 8 GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS & THE UPSTATE
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GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS & THE UPSTATE 9
Fly Care Tips
I
By Mike Kesselring
often hear about folks being gifted or inheriting batches of old flies from an old friend or family member that has passed away or has quit fishing because of health or old age. Or, sometimes they find a great deal at a flea market or yard sale. Some times it can be a windfall. Sometimes a bust. During my 35 years of collecting flies, I have been blessed several times with a batch of old flies ranging from just a handful to hundreds of them. Folks who have received such blessings often have no idea what to do with them. Some folks have just started fly-fishing, others have been fishing for a few years, and others have been at it for decades. A lot of these folks are fly tiers, too. As a collector, I have learned a few things about taking care of flies from a wide variety of sources. Lord knows there are lots of tips, differing opinions and ideas to consider. Here are just a few suggestions I have found to be very useful. TIP 1: QUARANTINE 1. DO NOT mix the old flies with your other flies even if you put just a few of them in your stream side boxes. 2. Keep them away from your tying materials until you debug them. You can’t always tell if they
have feather or fur mites but it is better to be safe than sorry. TIP 2: EXTERMINATE 1. Freezing them for a couple weeks should kill any living bugs. Be sure to include the wallets, boxes or fly holders. They can carry the bugs, too. 2. Next, thaw them out and let them sit for another week or two to let any eggs hatch. 3. Refreeze them for a week or two longer to kill any hatched bugs. TIP 3: REFURBISHING Quite often, batches of old flies are dirty, coated with floatant, disheveled or just plain messed up. They can look horrible and even be unusable. To clean them up, try this. 1. Use a whistling type tea kettle to give them a steam cleaning. Use hemostats to suspend the fly in the steam to keep from burning your fingers. 2. Lay the wet fly on a soft cloth or paper towel. Use a soft bristled toothbrush to remove dirt, grime and loose tying materials. 3. Once you have the feather and fur smoothed out and looking new again, let it air dry. Once it is dry, fluff it up again to separate the fibers with the soft toothbrush.
4. After a day or two of drying, you can treat them with whatever product you find appropriate. Now that you have debugged, cleaned and preserved them, what to do, what to do?
Do like I do. If you are a collector, save the best of the duplicate flies and fish the extras. If you are not a collector, fish them all, or get in touch with me to see if I might be interested in some of them.
Mike Kesselring is the volunteer coordinator for the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. He owns Point to Point Shuttle Service based in Bryson City. His fly collection is legendary.
Fly of the Month By Eli Crumley
Squirmy Worm Hook: Tiemco TMC2457 size 14 Thread: UTC 70 denier (color) Fluorescent Orange Body: Caster’s Squirmito (color) Fluorescent Orange The Southeast is cooling down and delayed harvest is heating up. Squirmy Worms are great flies to 10 GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS & THE UPSTATE
NOVEMBER 2019
target delayed harvest fish. Stock up on these great attractor patterns in various colors.
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ASHEVILLE / HENDERSONVILLE / BREVARD
The Reason Why
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By Ethan Hollifield
was recently asked why I like to fish. This seems as innocent a question as anyone could offer to me, as most of the people close to me understand that if I could devote my free time to fishing and hunting, I would without hesitation. I would be honest in saying that I already have given most of my own devotions and inherent meaning to the outdoors in one way or another. I get asked this question all the time as a guide, but I don’t really think that the persons who ask it really understand the question in the first place. To be honest, I think the majority of anglers don’t answer the question with any sort of actual meaning other than with cliché answers such as “It’s how I find peace” or “It provides me with an escape.” Well, I always wondered then what people were trying to escape, or why they were trying to find peace, because that leaves room for a deeper introspection into our own lives, once we pull the waders off and the boats get trailered home. Life, in and of itself, is chaos. If you think about your own life, I imagine your memory is flooded with mainly either the really good things that have happened to you, or with memories of your most painful moments, with very little in-between. We never really know for sure, on a day-to-day basis, what the next few seconds or
the next phone call might mean to us. We articulate ourselves into a rhythmic pattern of what is a normal day, with all the routines and chores that make life necessary. But that routine is easily thrown off whenever something happens in our lives that essentially shatters the future we have set up for ourselves. Our minds have then evolved to be in a constant state of alertness for the unexpected as a result. It’s no wonder then that people are driven mad and into states of depression and anxiety whenever an event occurs to change what their own perceptions are for their future selves. So that brings me back to the question “Why do you like to fish?” Life in the river, or the lake, or wherever I happen to be within the natural world is predictable. What does that mean exactly? It means that, within our knowledge of the river, there is a sense of security that can’t be found at any other point within our own lives. I can go and stand in the water, watching trout rising in the early morning mist or feel the brisk fall air blow against my face as I push against the oar blades of a drift boat. In those moments, you often tend to forget about the own chaos that is your own personal life and in turn, trade it for something inherently more worthwhile. It gives us as anglers an opportunity to then grasp
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onto a way of life that makes sense and has a relative sense of order in a world that, everyday, seems more and more chaotic. I don’t have to worry in those moments about my other responsibilities or the bad things that have happened in my life. Fishing is predictable in that I can always count on the ability to lose my own inhibitions, even if for just a few moments,
regardless of whether I end up catching anything. In short, I’ve often come to the conclusion that when it comes to fishing: I’m drawn to the simplistic, rhythmic patterns found in nature that are always predictable, and reliable. This is often the complete antithesis of everything else in life. That, my friends, is why I like to fish!
Ethan Hollifield is an Environmental/Physical Science Teacher and is also a guide for Southern Appalachian Anglers
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It’s Hunting Season, But What About the Boat?
W
By Capt. Jake Davis
hile fishing the other day with a client (imagine that, me fishing), we observed a flock of Canadian geese fly over with the turning leaves, and he says it’s time for hunting season. Being from up north, Paul says, “I need to get the boat serviced and winterized”. “Winterized,” now there is a term I have not heard since I was stationed in Wisconsin almost 20 years ago. I had not really thought of it much because I fish year round here in the South, and it’s second nature for me to take my boat in for a check up/service every three months. But for you hunters and fair weather anglers, before you park the DuckettZoom-Strike King-Yamaha 250, go-faster-than-light bass boat or the ole stump-jumper flat bottom in the garage and pick up the Browning to go hunting, here are some friendly suggestions from my friendly local service center.
First and foremost, before anything, go see a certified master mechanic at a reputable dealer. A few of the items you should have performed are to drain the fuels, have the cylinders fogged with fogging oil, drain the cooling system, treat the remaining fuel in the gas tank, put a little antifreeze in the cooling system (use the eco safe type), service the batteries, change the lower unit oil and water impeller, grease and lube all moving parts to include the trailer, check the hydraulic steer fluid, and let’s not forget about those live wells. Don’t overlook servicing all those rods and tackle you’ve collected over the past year! Remove it all from the boat. This is the time to start cleaning and servicing your reels and baits. You can take your time and change the hooks out on those crankbaits and put new skirts on your spinnerbaits, etc. Don’t forget to remove the batteries from the hand-held scales
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and other electronics. Lastly, if you’re going to store the boat outside, consider having it “shrink wrapped”. This will keep leaves out along with most of the critters. When it is time to go fishing again, all you have to do it cut the shrink wrap off and put the rods and tackle back in the boat. The other great reason to do all this now is, before you know it, it will be time to chase those big fish
again, and if you don’t get the boat serviced now, you’ll be wishing you were fishing while you wait in line with everyone else. I’ve touched on most of the items you should do before heading to the woods or the TV to watch football but I highly recommend you find a Certified Master Mechanic, or your local reputable dealer, to get all the proper winter maintenance work done.
Capt Jake Davis is a USCG Licensed Professional Fishing Guide on Lake Guntersville, Tim’s Ford and Nickajack Lake. Visit www.midsouthbassguide. com or call/email 615-613-2382, msbassguide@comcast.net
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GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS & THE UPSTATE 13
P3
S
ometimes it is not uncommon for a person to work two (or more) jobs to make ends meet. Jake did what he had to in order to take care of his family. So, after working his primary job, Jake would work at a large sporting store called, “The Outdoor Pro Shop”. This store was a sportsman’s paradise; it had everything from boats, ATVs, fishing, camping, clothes and a very, very large hunting section. Because of Jake’s background and experience, he was tasked to work in the camping section. The way the store was laid out, the camping section had a lot of foot traffic through it as people headed to the hunting section. Jake truly enjoyed his job because, to him, it really wasn’t a job. He was able to help first timers and experienced people learn about products and techniques so they could enjoy
By Chris Smith the great outdoors. He even went so far as to do demonstrations for some of the products. One example would be, when Jake talked the store manager into letting him do a demonstration using a turkey pot. Jake set up and fried a couple of turkeys using the products that were in the store, from the pot and burner to the spices and peanut oil. It was a huge success and the products in his section flew off the shelves. Often, he would get customers that would ask where this and that would be, mainly items that are in the hunting section. Well, one day he was showing a family the differences in backpacks and how they fit and the intended use for each model. During this time a couple of guys abruptly interrupted the questions coming from the family and asked where the doe scents were. Jake
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politely advised that they were in the hunting section. The two guys grunted and walked off. Jake and the family resumed the task of finding the right backpacks. After the family decided on which ones they wanted, Jake went so far as to pull common products that you would have on a trip off the shelves and load the packs with average weight. By doing this, Jake was able to properly fit the backpacks to each family member. The two guys from before appeared and interrupted the family again. One thing you must understand about Jake is that he has zero tolerance for rudeness and, at times, can be very sarcastic. You know the type, the one guy in a crowd that, when someone is looking for sympathy or whining, will say, “but did you die?”
The two guys asked over the family in a loud tone, “Which doe urine is the best?” Jake said, “Excuse me,” and walked real close to the two guys and leaned in like he had a secret to tell. The two guys leaned in and in a hushed voice Jake said, “I’m not supposed to lead you one way or another to a specific product, but have you tried the new product call Pickled Possum Piss?” The two guy’s eyes went wide. Jake knew he had them. He went on to say that P3 is so good that they can’t keep it on the shelves. The two guys started grinning ear to ear. Jake told them that the store just got a truck in last night and to see the hunting section folks, who would find it for them. The two guys said, “thanks” and moved out a brisk pace. Jake returned to the family
CONTINUED, SEE P3, PAGE 16
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The Reaction Bite Is Here!
C
By Scott Norton
ool nights have triggered the bass to begin getting ready for winter. They are packing on weight and consuming as many calories as possible. Plan on reaction bites when planning ahead for a lake trip. They are moving off shore to chase and ambush shad. It’s the most efficient way to fatten up. Largemouth will tend to school up and work together to corral shad in pockets and up against points. You’ll notice all the blow-ups in the middle of the river channels as they push the shad further and further to the backs of creeks. You’ll want to use baits that can cover lots of water, such as crank baits, swim baits, jerk baits, and top water walkers. In some situations like schooling fish down deep is where you use lipless cranks, flutter spoons, jigs, ned rigs, worms, and flukes. Just
remember, the smaller bass chase bait while the big, smarter bass eat what falls to the bottom. I find myself loading the boat with every rig I own because they are biting everything. When the bite dies down, I switch to a new bait and setup then get them fired back up again. This season, we’ve had hot weather and bluebird skies most of the time so the bite has been timid at times. They have been suspending during these times but there are baits for that, like the spy bait. This bait can be used on a spinning setup that you would use for drop shots. This technique works so well that you can force them into a frenzy. If you don’t have a lot of setups, you can just take a medium heavy rod and throw more on that set up than any other rig. It’s by far the most versatile setup you can own. The only thing that would hold
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you back is the line selection on that set up. If you were to take an extra reel or a spool loaded with different line, you can switch and change up your setup very quickly. Some people like to load braid on a reel and just tie on different leaders to suit their setup needs. If you’re a beginner, keep it simple. Start off with a bait you have confidence in and fish it in different ways. Plastics are a great way to be versatile while keeping it simple. Let’s take the fluke for instance, you can rig it weightless and fish it on topwater while pausing and letting it spiral down to the bottom like a dying shad. Put a weight on it and jig it off the bottom where the big ones are. You
can also setup a drop shot rig and shake it just off the bottom. This can work for lots of plastics. You can only limit yourself by not doing your homework.
Scott Norton is a native of Western North Carolina. Born in Asheville, NC, he is a long time avid hunter, angler, and weekend warrior. He is a member of Southern Raft Supply’s prostaff team representing them in his Jackson Kayak Coosa FD
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The Casting Corner – Tension By Rene J. Hesse
H
ave you heard the expression that there is no stress unless we put it on ourselves? After hearing this thought process, I started to look at my work situation a little differently, and it was for the better. But this is supposed to be a fly casting article, so why would tension be involved? We put tension on ourselves to complete a task (mental), and we also want to put tension on the line to make a cast (physical). The English language is really confusing. How do people from another county ever learn it? The word ‘tension’ can mean to strain, stretch or being stretched. The good side of recognizing what tension is in life is that we can look at ourselves and control that aspect of things. We control how we react to things if
we want to. The same applies to tension in fly casting. Tension on the fly line is a good thing, and learning how to control it will improve your casting. When your line is out in front of you and before you start the cast, put some tension on the line. Lower your rod tip to the water and start to strip the line in until you make the fly move, then start the back cast. If you are using a short line, say 15-20 feet, lift the rod tip until the fly is moving. That will create the tension needed to then allow for a smooth, crisp acceleration to a stop for the back cast. Think about the beginning of the cast as trying to stretch the line straight before the smooth acceleration to the stop. Think about tension in the back cast too. Don’t allow the line to fall and lose tension
by waiting too long as the line extends behind you. Having a little tension in our
P3
lives can be a good thing, especially in fly casting.
continued from page 14
and finished helping them. About an hour or so passed and the store manager came over to speak with Jake. He said, “Jake you have got to stop playing with customers like that”. The manager said the new associate working the floor in hunting was unable to find the P3 or had ever heard of it. Obviously, he was talking about the two guys. Jake said, I understand
and will try to do better but sometimes common sense isn’t so common. Moral of the story: Don’t be Rude and if you ever find the P3, buy it up because it doesn’t stay on the shelves.
Chris is a Combat Veteran recently retired. A few places he has deployed are Afghanistan, Jordon, Panama, Haiti and various non-combat areas. He is an avid outdoorsman that enjoys hunting, camping, fishing. He lives with his bride of 29 years in Alabama who he calls “Household 6”. If any Veteran or family member of a veteran who sees changes in their loved one or for that matter anyone that is contemplating suicide, he urges you to contact him at combatvettalk@gmail.com
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IT’S DONE! By Jimmy Harris
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don’t know about other anglers, but I enjoyed about as much of summer as I could stand this year. Seriously, in October, we were looking at the hottest days of the year. No, I take that back. They were the hottest days of all time! I’m sorry but when the streams are low, it’s 98° and the sun’s beating down on me all day, I can frequently talk myself out of going fishing. Oh, I’m still fishing a couple times each week, just not out there on a daily, or even every other day, basis. If I’m not having fun, I’ll find something else to do. But we all know anglers are the ultimate optimists. After the toughest of days on the water, we’ll make just one more cast thinking, “This could be it!”
And if it isn’t, then we’ll make one more cast. That’s optimism! All complaining aside, fall is here now so let’s talk about how to make the best of it. First of all, there is a lot of activity in the animal world right now. Bucks are getting stupid going into the rut. You can quail hunt without watching every step for a snake. Squirrels and rabbits no longer have wolves under their skin that gross you out. It just feels good! In the fishing world, we’re looking at some of the best times of the year for anglers. Delayed Harvest streams have re-opened in Georgia and North Carolina. Brown trout are beginning to think about spawning, and stripers and hybrids are back on the surface on
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area lakes. While the shoalies are no longer hitting topwater, they can still be caught by going deep as they put on weight to get them through the winter. So, what’s your approach? Early in the season, the Delayed Harvest streams will find most of us throwing stuff like Woolly Buggers with an egg on San Juan Worm dropper. If our timing is good and the weather cooperates, we may bump into a Blue Winged Olive hatch. Stripers and hybrids on area lakes can be found busting threadfin shad at the surface. A small minnow imitation fly like a Clouser or Cowen’s Somethin’ Else fished on an intermediate
line just below the surface will get more strikes than topwater. Always keep an eye out for the birds. Shoalies and other river bass are in deeper water now, so you’ll need to get your fly in front of their face. A full sinking line, short heavy leader and weighted flies like Craig Reindeau’s Harry Fodder bounced along the bottom will still work. This is my favorite time of the year to be on the water. I hope you’ll find opportunities to get out there too.
Jimmy Harris is the owner of Unicoi Outfitters Located in Helen, GA.
NOVEMBER 2019
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Fishing in Big Laurel Creek (Hatchery-supported), Madison County, North Carolina Big Laurel Creek is a hatchery-supported trout stream that begins in the northeast corner of Madison County and flows down a steep and winding mountain valley for approximately 20 miles to its convergence with Laurel River. Its head waters are comprised of Puncheon Fork Branch and Laurel Valley Branch. These two streams begin on Bald Mountain and converge at the Ebbs Chapel Community Center and become Big Laurel Creek. A number of small branches feed into Big Laurel Creek and add volume to its flow and also provide spawning places for both hatchery bred trout and native stream trout to lay their eggs in the spring and also serve as nursery streams for the fingerling trout that are hatched in them. As these fingerling trout grow they instinctively move down into Big Laurel Creek and become a part of the trout population there. Big Laurel is approximately 12-15 feet wide at Exit 3 on I 26 and grows to 50 to 60 feet wide at its confluence with Laurel River. Tip: Best stretches of water are between Lewis Branch and Wilde’s Branch and between Wolf Branch and Foster’s Creek. There are 18 GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS & THE UPSTATE
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places where you can do bank fishing as well as wading. Tip: Good choice of artificial flies is a generic wet fly with brown tail, olive body, brown hackle, and white wings tied at 90 degrees to the body like a spent dry fly that as fallen into the water. Directions: Interstate Highway 26 at exit number 3. This exit ramp crosses the head waters of Big Laurel Creek and intersects with US Highway 23. Turning left onto US Highway 23 for approximately 3 tenths of a mile and turning left again onto Big Laurel Road puts you at fishable waters. Big Laurel Road parallels Big Laurel Creek for approximately 9 miles and then leaves the stream and goes on to intersect with NC highway 208 at the community of Belva. Big Laurel flows through a gorge for about 4 miles before emptying into Laurel River about one mile west of Belva.. Disclaimer: Refer to the North Carolina Regulations Digest for the most up-to-date information. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
Fishing Roaring Fork & Little Creek in Madison County North Carolina Meadow Fork (which is located south of the town of Hot Springs) has two tributaries–both of which are hatchery-supported trout streams. Roaring Fork is a small creek that is only about 5 miles long and 6 to 8 feet wide. It is somewhat difficult to fish because of the brush so you have to get in it to fish. The other tributary is Little Creek which is about 2 miles long. The upper end of it has a fair population of small native rainbow trout.
Fishing in Upper Shut-In Creek, Hot Springs, North Carolina North of the town of Hot Springs, Upper Shut-In Creek is a small hatchery-supported stream (marginal at best) which is approximately 8 miles long and is about 12-15 foot in width. Tip: Best place to fish is at Mill Pond where there is the biggest pool on the creek. This is about 6/10 of a mile south of the US 25/70 where there is a 8 to 10 foot waterfall.
MADISON COUNTY TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Madison County Visitors Center 56 South Main • P.O. Box 1060 Mars Hill, NC 28754 (828) 680-9031
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NOVEMBER 2019
GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS & THE UPSTATE 19
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Visit and Explore Burnsville, NC
hether you’re hiking, fishing or camping in the mountains or attending a performance at Parkway Playhouse or coming to the Mt. Mitchell Crafts Fair or Carolina Mountains Literary Festival, there’s always a good day waiting for you in Burnsville, North Carolina, especially for travelers who like to discover their own journey. Yancey County is home to waterfalls, campgrounds, backroads, hiking trails, clean rivers, and six of the 10 highest peaks in Eastern America. Located in southern Yancey County, Mount Mitchell (6,684 feet) is the highest mountain East of the Mississippi River. It was designated the first state park in North Carolina in 1916. Today it features an observation platform on the summit next to Elisha Mitchell’s grave, and an interpretive museum with historical and environmental
exhibits. The restaurant, concession stand and gift shop are open May thru October. Campground has 9 tent sites only. Winding along the southern edge of Yancey County, the Blue Ridge Parkway gives travelers an amazing view of the Black Mountains and the South Toe River Valley. Stretching for nearly 500 miles through the mountains of North Carolina and Virginia – and not one single redlight – the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the best scenic drives in America. The Blue Ridge Parkway is the only access to Mount Mitchell State Park at Hwy 128 and milepost 355. It’s five miles to the summit. The Parkway was built by CCC labor in the 1930s. Workers used dynamite to blast tunnels through the mountains and carve a road through rough, remote terrain. The Parkway rises to an elevation over 5,000 feet as it passes
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through Yancey County. Enjoy a fun filled day on the water, catching the fish native to our mountains. We guarantee your fishing trip will be full of fish-catching Observation platform at Mount Mitchell State Park. experiences! Toe River, Southern Appalachian MounCarolina Hemlocks, and Black tains. More info at www.snakeMountain Campgrounds are all lorootecotours.com. cated off Highway 80 in the South The Burnsville-Yancey ChamToe River area of Yancey County. ber of Commerce and Visitor Mount Mitchell State Park and Crabtree Meadows are accessed by Center is located at 106 West Main Street. Inside you’ll find a helpful the Blue Ridge Parkway. Snakeroot Ecotours offers cus- staff and lots of information on tom tours of one of the wildest attractions, lodging, shopping, and most scenic corners of West- dining, and local businesses & ern North Carolina. We invite you services. Visitor Center and office into astoundingly diverse habitats open Monday thru Friday 9am to and reveal the mysteries of the 5pm. Call (828) 682-7413.
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GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS & THE UPSTATE 23
EAST TN / GREAT SMOKIES
Blue Lines In The Smokies
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wanted to write this article because, in Tennessee, the South Holston and some of our tailwaters overshadow our beauteous Brook Trout water in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With over 100 miles of extremely fishable blue lines, you can say there is too much to cover in a lifetime. As an outfit only a 1/2 mile from the park entrance, we know that water like the back of our hand. Ramsey Cascades is our closest destination to start our hunt. While you can sometimes find a few at the trailhead, it is best to start your journey roughly 1 mile in, off the beaten trail. Our typical Brook trout can range from 4 inches upwards to a whopping 12 inches! You may have heard of Lynn
By Chad Fouts
Camp Prong, which is some fantastic fishing, but you will find it hard to find a spot to fish. As it is extremely popular, so we suggest hitting Sam’s Creek, which is at the same trailhead-just take a right instead of a left. Then head up about a mile and you will see it flowing into Thunder Head prong. Another great, but not so popular, stream is Big Creek up above Midnight Hole. Not many people fish it because of the number of people leading up to the big swimming hole. Past it though, can be some of the best Brookie fishing in the park. There are hundreds of more miles of Blue Line water that we could cover but unfortunately, don’t have space. So if you would like to find out more, give us a call
at the shop! While fishing for trout in our area, it is always best to run the “dry-dropper” rig as we call it. That includes a dry fly with about 18 inches of tippet tied along
the bend of its hook. Some good choices are a Purple Sparkle Adams or an Orange Stimulator with a small Pheasant Tail dropper. On that tippet, typically a 5x to the dry and 6x-7x to the nymph.
Chad Fouts is the Fly Shop Manager at The Smoky Mountain Angler in Gatlinburg, TN. He is a self-described fly fishing junky. If you have any questions about fishing in this area give him a call 865-436-8746
Huntin’ for Bass and Fishin’ for Deer By: Ryan Kennedy
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s an avid outdoorsman, this time of year means one of two major things. It’s either time to hit the lake or go hang up in a tree somewhere waiting on a whitetail. Now for me, that choice leans much more towards hunting due to the limited deer season. I’ve got all year to chase those bass all over the lake, but this time of year is special. It’s another opportunity to experience the blessings of nature all around us. If you are anything like me and love to hunt, you know that when it comes to deer hunting, your season consists of about 99% of a waiting game and a 1% timeframe of sheer blood-pumping action. With all of that time to think to yourself, a man can just about explore every thought
that pops into his mind. Sometimes we think about when a big buck is going to walk out to satisfy our building anticipation, or you’re probably thinking about what your wife made for dinner that night because, for some reason, your new equipment for the season doesn’t seem to bring in deer every thirty seconds like you saw on the commercial on T.V. Instead, all it brought in was a hefty credit card bill that you will get an ear full about at the dinner table. It’s alright Hoss. Give it another year or two, and all that money spent will pay off when that “record deer” you saw on camera comes walking by. All kidding aside though, I have used a lot of my thinking time to realize that hunting is a whole lot like fishing and fish-
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ing is a whole lot like hunting. Think about it. Go back in the memory book to sitting on a riverbank with a Zebco 33 in hand with no crazy lures, but rather just a cricket, a couple split-shot weights, and a bobber. We sat there and waited for the fish to come to us. THAT was fishing. Of course, now we speed all around the lake at 110 miles per hour casting non-stop until we find a willing fish. As I thought about waiting on a fish to come to me, I realized that’s exactly what I was doing in the deer stand. I was simply waiting for a deer to stroll on by, so I could let a meat missile fly out of my Hoyt. With all of that said, the word ‘hunting’ comes across as an extreme
pursuit of an animal just like modern-day fishing. So, which is it? Do we hunt for fish and fish for deer? If a tree falls in the forest and no one is there to hear it, does it make a sound? Quite frankly, it really doesn’t matter. You know as well as I do that there isn’t much in life that is as rewarding as waking up in the dark hours of early morning to watch the world come alive around you as the sun rises. It’s our passion and it’s in our blood. We actively pursue it because it brings us joy. It’s just something to think about next time you are out in a tree stand or flying down the lake. So, whichever choice you make next, tight lines and shoot straight!
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UPSTATE SOUTH CAROLINA
Stock Tips
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s we now enjoy that fall has grabbed ahold of the thermometer, we start to enjoy the splendor of the leaves changing the color of the landscape. This time of year also brings enjoyment to many fly anglers as they realize that the beginning of the Delayed Harvest season has started on November 1st, and running through May 14 of next year. The helicopter has flown its many trips up and down both the Chattooga and Chauga Rivers, and there are fish to be found around every bend of the rivers. We always take time to thank the fine folks of the Walhalla State Fish Hatchery, here in Mountain Rest, for their great work throughout the year, raising these great fish that we are able to catch. Also, great thanks to the
By Karl Ekberg
South Carolina DNR, and the US Forestry Department, for their work in the stocking of the fish during the two-day helicopter stocking event!! The temperatures have cooled tremendously, and now that the river waters have started their cool-down, it’s time for waders, boots, and catching some of the big and plentiful fish available this time of year. Let’s remember that these fish have just been stocked in the rivers and are not yet accustomed to eating natural aquatic bug life. Having lived in a cement chase their entire lives, these fish had their diet supplied from a pellet bucket and a feeder during the day, so some trickery on our part to resemble such foods, using some thread and mate-
rial tied to a hook, seems like a great idea. Well, it is a great idea, and with something bright and flashy, a successful day will be had. Whether a dead drift through a run or a streamer through a big pool, with a strip and pause method, the fish are there. If the success rate starts to dwindle or become nonexistent, switching methods, colors, and even the depth at which the
flies are being fished should do the trick. As the leaves start to fall, let’s remember to leave no trace, as the leaves will quickly cover any item left behind on a camping trip or even a day trip to the river. We hope to see everyone out on the rivers, and from all of us at Chattooga River Fly Shop, we hope everyone has a Happy Thanksgiving!!
Karl and Karen Ekberg are Co-Owners of Chattooga River Fly Shop, located at 6832A Highlands Hwy, in Mountain Rest, SC 29664. Give them a call at (864) 638-2806 or look them up on the web at chattoogariverflyshop.com
Lake Russell
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By Wendell Wilson
his month is one of my favorite times of year to fish Lake Russell. There are still some fish up shallow if you prefer to fish that way; however, most of the fish will be moving deeper. Look for schools of threadfin shad in the creeks to start gathering in 20 to 30 feet of water. All the predatory fish of different species will be following the bait schools. This is a great time to break out the jigging
spoons. Drop the spoon to the bottom and jig it up and down. Most of the time, only a slight “tick” will be felt as the fish sucks in the spoon. Also, a drop shot rig with a medium minnow is deadly on everything from crappie to bass to stripers. In addition, expect to tangle with yellow perch, white perch, and channel catfish. Sea gulls will be moving back to our lakes to help with the fish finding. Good fishing.
Wendell Wilson / Wilson’s Guide Service / 706-283-3336
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GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS & THE UPSTATE 27
Lake Hartwell Fishing Forecast By Capt. Preston Harden
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ater level is about 4 feet below full pool and the water temperature is in the mid-70s and dropping. November is a transition month as the water cools quickly with colder air temperatures. Fish are moving and migrating.
It is the opposite migration from spring. The fish are moving shallow. Hybrids and stripers leave the deep water of the lower lake and migrate up the lake into the rivers and creeks. They start to key in on thread fin Shad. They can get picky and only eat small baits. I like to
have a small jig and fluke or a white inline spinner for schooling fish. A small jigging spoon bounced off the bottom in the Creek arms will work during the middle of the day with bright Sun. Bass move back shallow and become more aggressive with cooling water. They are easier to catch with less fishing pressure than in the spring. Turnover makes fishing tricky in late fall. The water inverts with cool water from the deep rising to the surface and warm surface water sinking. Turning water appears Brown and smells like rotting leaves. It will have foam on
top. This usually gets worse after a cold snap. It clears up after the weather stabilizes. The upper Lake and Creek arms turn over first. Fish move up the lake looking for better water quality. Look for green water. Try to fish after a few days of stable weather. Fall can be great fishing with no boats around. Beautiful leaves and cooler weather add to the experience.
Preston Harden / Bucktail Guide Service, 706-255-5622 / bucktailguideservice.net
28 GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS & THE UPSTATE
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By Mikey Erickson
A
lot of people know Costa Rica is the “Billfish Capital of the World,” but that’s not all it is. Double-digit numbers of tarpon and an abundance of snook can be caught on the Caribbean Coast out of Tortuguero, where rivers like Rio Parismina and Rio Colorado follow the coast and open up into the ocean. Days of 30 or more fish are possible. And the river-locked town of Tortuguero is a true gem.The culture has a lot of Jamaican and Spanish influence. The season here is from February to May. Great spots for freshwater fishing include the beautiful Arenal Volcano, Lake Arenal and the rivers running through northern-inland Costa Rica. Rainbow bass, better known as “guapote,” are the main target of freshwater anglers. They are prized for intelligence, aggression and great tasting meat. The Machaca is another exciting fish that has earned the nickname “mini tarpon.” The town of La Fortuna in Arenal is a very nice place to visit. Everything is green and full of life due to the volcanic soil. There are also hot springs. The best season for this area is from January to May. On the northern Pacific Coast, fishing is great all the way down the coast from Papagayo to El Coco, Flamingo to Tamarindo, Nosara to Samara, and Santa Teresa to Tambor. The sport fishing in this area picks up from May to August with species like mahi, marlin, sailfish, roosterfish, snapper and wahoo. This region is beautiful, and the culture is very European. If you get the chance to explore this region, take it! The best fishing in the central Pacific region is near Jaco, Herradura, Quepos and Manuel Antonio. I’ve lived four years, fishing constantly, and it offers year-round angling. The marlin and sailfish bite is insane from December to June, and from April to November the mahi come in huge numbers to debris pushed out by the rivers. There are also many FAD’s (Fish Attracting Devices) 100 miles off the coast. Overnight trips offer double-digit marlin and sailfish! The southern Pacific Coast offers many great destinations both inshore and offshore. The Sierpe River offers great freshwater fishing, and places like Golfito, Drake Bay and Puerto Jimenez offer killer inshore fishing. These areas known for giant roosterfish year-round, and also feature great marlin and sailfish from August to March, mahi-mahi from May to October and tuna year-round. All in all, Costa Rica is the fishing destination of a lifetime for freshwater, inshore, offshore and spearfishing. Come explore what the land of Pura Vida has to Offer. Mikey Erickson is co-editor of Coastal Angler/Costa Rica and Tres Niñas Tours Manager. Contact him at mikey@coastalanglermagazine.com, info@tresninastours.com, U.S. Cell: +1(561)310-2665, CR Cell: +506-8305-0041. Visit www.coastalanglermag.com/costa-rica/ and www.tresninastours.com.
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TIPS FROM A PRO
BIG BASS IN MEXICO
BRANDON LESTER
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his summer I took my second trip to Mexico’s famed El Salto. It didn’t disappoint, dishing out some of the meanest 7- and 8-pound bass I’ve ever seen. Of course, we caught numbers as well, but this time I slowed down and enjoyed everything Angler’s Inn at El Salto has to offer. On this trip, the lake was down 45 feet. El Salto is an irrigation lake, so water gets used a lot in summer. Low water levels concentrated the fish. We caught a bunch on lipless baits, a few on jigs and a good number on crankbaits. By and large, though, the best pattern was a Texas-rigged Photo by Jon Tatum worm. It’s awesome how the lake is different during different seasons. It makes each trip unique. On the first day, guides feel you out to make your trip as fun as possible. Everyone has a different goal. Some guys want numbers; some want their best shot at a 10-pounder. On Day One, we landed 70 to 80 fish, easily, but I didn’t catch any over 5 pounds. On Day Two, my very experienced guide took me after the big ones. We fished for bass suspended in standing timber. It was a little harder to catch them, but the fish were much bigger. Down
there, you can pretty much catch fish any way you want, but you can’t catch big fish doing whatever you want. The guides at El Salto have the big-fish patterns nailed down through the seasons. Last year, I went in January and we caught big fish deep cranking, so the pattern had changed completely. One thing that didn’t change was how mean the fish are. That brings me to my other takeaway: Big fish require the best gear you can throw. I fished extensively with the new 11-inch X Zone Blitz Worm, in both plum and red bug. They bit the fire out of both colors. The bait has very little salt content, so it floats off the bottom, which gives it much better action. The baits are also very soft and easy to rig. Mustad just came out with a complete line of tungsten, and I put it to the test. We used a 3/8-ounce tungsten bullet weight, and loved it. The Mustad line has Titan X finish on it, which is awesome. Most objects in nature aren’t shiny, so this mattestyle Titan X finish is more natural. The sizes are etched onto each weight. It’s a nice touch that makes selection easier. A 5/0 Grip Pin Big Bite hook is the perfect big-bass hook. There were a few sessions where I caught at least 50 fish on one hook. That’s one of the best things about a Mustad hook. Drag it across rocks and set the hook over and over. The points on their hooks will not roll. Feel free to ask me on social media about the trip and any of the gear mentioned here.
For more Lester visit,
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ake Picachos, Mexico might not warrant the title of the world’s best trophy lake, but it might just be the world’s most fun bass fishery. Picachos is the newest of northwest Mexico’s storied bass fisheries. The dam for this 14,000-acre reservoir on the Presidio River was completed in 2009. It was opened to anglers in 2013. A decade since its formation, the lake is pumping out almost unbelievable numbers of 3- to 5-pound fish. According to Angler’s Inn International, it’s not unusual for a pair of skilled anglers to catch 200 to 300 fish a day. According to Ron Speed Jr.’s daily reports, Picachos regularly produces 150-fish days with big fish each day topping out at 6 to 8 pounds. That’s incredible action for solid fish. The lake record is 12-pounds, 14-ounces, and the bar is expected to rise as the fishery matures. An ample forage base of tilapia, plenty of heavy cover, clean water and catch-and-release regulations point to a bright future. Mornings and evenings generally see an outstanding topwater bite, which is a ton of fun for conventional anglers with walking baits and poppers as well as for fly-rodders throwing bass bugs. Spinnerbaits, lizards, stickbaits, Flukes and shallow-running crankbaits also provide action that leads to bleeding bass thumb. Lake Picachos is about 30 miles inland from the Pacific Coast resort town Mazatlán. Fishing is great year-round, with a peak from February into June. For information, go to www.anglersinn.com or www.ronspeedadventures.com.
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3
ITEM 62523
• Super-Strong, Ultra-Lightweight Composite Plastic • Magnetic Base & 360° Swivel Hook for Hands-Free Operation • 3- AAA Batteries (included) • 144 Lumens
ALL IN A SINGLE SUPER POWERFUL LIGHT COMPARE TO
1,009
$
*HONDA EU2000i stated specs
LIMIT 1 - Coupon valid through 1/3/20*
Customer Rating
9
MODEL: 1312-92
SUPER COUPON Customer Rating
Customer Rating
ITEM 63135 61451 shown
COMPARE TO
290
$
99 $1 69
SAVE $ 120
75 SHELTER $ MODEL: 76377 LOGIC
$
ITEM 62859/63055/62860 shown
1239
COMPARE TO
19999
20% OFF *85690497 * 85690497
Limit 1 coupon per customer per day. Save 20% on any 1 item purchased. *Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or any of the following items or brands: Inside Track Club membership, Extended Service Plan, gift card, open box item, 3 day Parking Lot Sale item, compressors, floor jacks, safes, storage cabinets, chests or carts, trailers, welders, Admiral, Ames, Bauer, Central Machinery, Cobra, CoverPro, Daytona, Diamondback, Earthquake, Fischer, Hercules, Icon, Jupiter, Lynxx, Poulan, Predator, Tailgator, Viking, Vulcan, Zurich. Not valid on prior purchases. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 1/3/20.
SUPER COUPON
44" x 22" DOUBLE BANK EXTRA DEEP CABINETS
Customer Rating
$699
NOW
ITEM 60405/63056/63057 63150/56668/63094 shown
KEEPER $ 80
SAVE 22 69%
MODEL: 5505
49999 99 $ 2,735 $449
SAVE $2,285 COMPARE TO
SNAP-ON
$
YOUR CHOICE OF 6 COLORS
MODEL: KRA4813FPBO
Item 64446, 64443, 64133, 64954, 64955, 64956
*85695355 * 85695355
*85696834 * 85696834
*85697400 * 85697400
*85701219 * 85701219
LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 1/3/20*
LIMIT 1 - Coupon valid through 1/3/20*
LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 1/3/20*
LIMIT 1 - Coupon valid through 1/3/20*
12,000 LB. TRUCK/SUV WINCH • Weighs 83.65 lbs. • 21" L x 10-1/8" H
Customer Rating
POWDER-FREE NITRILE GLOVES PACK OF 100
Customer Rating
3-IN-1 PORTABLE 24 FT., 18 BULB, 12 SOCKET POWER PACK WITH OUTDOOR LINKABLE STRING LIGHTS JUMP STARTER YOUR CHOIRCE Customer Rating OF COLO W O N 99
• 5 mil thickness
SAVE 59%
SAVE $ 421
COMPARE TO
COMPARE TO
WARN $ 99
Customer Rating
720
$
MODEL: 96820
NOW
99 399 $299 99
ITEM 64045/64046/63770 shown
VENOM $ 97
14
99
SAVE $ 44%
7
$ 99
MODEL: VEN4145
$1 9
9 $499
NOW
$5
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
89
$ 99 COMPARE TO SUPER START MODEL: 55001
ITEM 97581, 37050, 64417, 64418, 61363, 68497, 61360, 61359, 68498, 68496 shown
$
5999
ITEM 38391/62376/64083/56349/62306 shown
BLACK
2799 SAVE 50%
WHITE
$
ITEM 64486 ITEM 64739 63483 shown
*85703013 * 85703013
*85704170 * 85704170
*85705711 * 85705711
LIMIT 1 - Coupon valid through 1/3/20*
LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 1/3/20*
LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 1/3/20*
LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 1/3/20*
Customer Rating
PERSONAL PORTABLE SECURITY SAFE
SAVE 49%
NOW
STACK-ON $ 97
29
MODEL: IK-233131
$
19
$1 499
99
ITEM 64079
SUPER COUPON
CLICK-TYPE TORQUE 3 TON HEAVY DUTY WRENCHES STEEL JACK STANDS
SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating
TRI-FOLD ALUMINUM LOADING RAMP • 1500 lb. NOW capacity
Customer Rating
• Adjust from 11-3/4" to 16-3/8"
• Meets TSA guidelines Customer Rating
COMPARE TO
SUPER COUPON
Contents not included.
DRIVE 1/4" 3/8" 1/2"
• Reversible
ITEM 61277/63881/2696 61276/63880/807 62431/63882/239/94850
Item 239 shown
COMPARE TO
HUSKY $ 97
89
MODEL: H2DTWA
SAVE $ 99 88% 19
E YOUR CHOIC
$999
$
2399 NOW99
SAVE 45%
9 $749
$1 8
SAVE $ 66 $9999
COMPARE TO
TORIN JACK $ 99
COMPARE TO
141
$ 08 REESE TOWPOWER MODEL: 74554700
34
MODEL: 1007102
ITEM 69595/60334/90018 shown
ITEM 38846/69597/62392/61196 shown
*85705963 * 85705963
*85709412 * 85709412
*85709628 * 85709628
*85709838 * 85709838
LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 1/3/20*
LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 1/3/20*
LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 1/3/20*
LIMIT 2 - Coupon valid through 1/3/20*
7 FT. 4" x 9 FT. 6" CAMOUFLAGE WEATHER RESISTANT TARP Customer Rating
NOW
$449 COMPARE TO
WEATHERMASTER $ 99 MODEL: 300083999
5
$ 99
SAVE 50%
ITEM 61765/46411 shown
MODEL 1800
SUPER COUPON
SAVE 69%
SUPER COUPON
ULTRA-LIGHT, CRUSH PROOF WEATHER-RESISTANT Customer Rating LOCKABLE CASE
80 PIECE ROTARY TOOL KIT
• 8-1/8" L 5-5/8" W 3-3/4" H
Customer Rating
COMPARE TO $ 76 PROFESSIONAL WOODWORKER MODEL: 51832
22
9
$ 99
ITEM 63235/63292/97626 shown
NOW
$699
PELICAN
SUPER COUPON
2 HP GAS POWERED EARTH AUGER WITH 6" BIT • Drill speeds up to 320 RPM Customer Rating
NOW
$
$999
SAVE $ 99 74% 13 COMPARE TO
$
3995
MODEL: 1150
ITEM 64550 63518 shown
214
99
SAVE $ 259
6" DIA x 31" L
NOW
99 $1 79
439
$ 98 EARTHQUAKE MODEL: E43 AND EA6F COMPARE TO
Case contents and locks not included.
ITEM 56257/63022 shown
*85710490 * 85710490
*85717895 * 85717895
*85719354 * 85719354
*85721807 * 85721807
LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 1/3/20*
LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 1/3/20*
LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 1/3/20*
LIMIT 1 - Coupon valid through 1/3/20*
At Harbor Freight Tools, the “Compare to” price means that the specified comparison, which is an item with the same or similar function, was advertised for sale at or above the “Compare to” price by another national retailer in the U.S. within the past 90 days. Prices advertised by others may vary by location. No other meaning of “Compare to” should be implied. For more information, go to HarborFreight.com or see store associate.
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
*Original coupon only. No use on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase or without original receipt. Valid through 1/3/20.
hft_coastalangler_1119_M-REG163333.indd 1
39
98 PORTFOLIO MODEL: SLC12BK COMPARE TO
*85702113 * 85702113 SUPER COUPON
8
NOW
• 400 lb. working load
99
SAVE $ 99 60% 5
$ 99
COMPARE TO
RANGEMAXX
*85686226 * 85686226 Cannot be used with other discounts or prior purchases. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 1/3/20 while supplies last. Limit 1 FREE GIFT per customer per day.
10 FT. x 17 FT. PORTABLE GARAGE 4 PIECE, 1" x 15 FT. RATCHETING TIE DOWNS
NOW
$3
13
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
ANY SINGLE ITEM*
ITEM 63878/63991 PERFORMANCE $ 52 64005/69567/60566 63601/67227 shown MODEL: W2364 TOOL
HONDA EU2000i
*85695098 * 85695098
AMMO DRY BOX
WITH ANY PURCHASE
SUPER BRIGHT LED /SMD WORK LIGHT/FLASHLIGHT
1600
YES
FREE
OVER 5,000 5 STAR REVIEWS Customer Rating
I
NOVEMBER 2019
I
NATIONAL
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10/2/19 1:38 PM
EXPERIENCE THE
M
ore litigation looms in the latest chapter of the three-decade saga to protect the world’s largest salmon run. Bristol Bay, Alaska, home to thriving sport and commercial fishing industries, is under the gun again as the U.S. photo by Nick Carter Environmental Agency recently removed protections that again Julie Carter with a Kvichak River sockeye. open the door for the proposed Pebble mine. Pebble mine is an exploration project investigating enormous deposits of gold, copper and other minerals near the headwaters of the Kvichak River and lakes Clark and Iliamna. These remote and pristine waterways offer some of best rainbow trout fishing in the world and feed Bristol Bay with the clean water that supports massive sockeye and Chinook salmon runs. Trout Unlimited recently joined other groups in filing suit against the EPA, alleging that the EPA ignored science and the potential impacts of developing the mine when it withdrew the Bristol Bay Proposed Determination, which are protections for the region that have been in place since 2014. “Billions of dollars have been spent in attempt to restore salmon runs in the Pacific Northwest. Meanwhile, Bristol Bay sets records for its salmon returns year after year. All we need to do is have the humility and common-sense to leave this landscape alone,” said Chris Wood, CEO of Trout Unlimited. “Sacrificing a place such as Bristol Bay for some gold is a short-sighted fools-errand. We are not a litigious organization, but we and millions of other sportsmen and women will not allow greed to compromise the most important salmon fishery on the planet.”
FIGHT!
For more information on the Save Bristol Bay campaign, go to SaveBristolBay.org.
14
NATIONAL
I
NOVEMBER 2019
I
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
Full Variable Speed Control Powerful Brushless Motor Retains Handle Function Digital Line Counter Auto Stop, 12/24VDC Compact & Sleek Design
855-HOOK-ONE
FLY FISHING
The permit is the Holy Grail for many serious saltwater fly anglers. Many, including me, have traveled and spent endless days pursuing these great gamefish with little to show for our efforts. Of course, the challenge is what’s special about permit fishing, not the number of fish brought to hand. However, there is one place where an angler can have great success catching permit on the fly; that place is the Yucatan Peninsula’s Punta Allen. Here, just a few kilometers south of Tulum in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, is the world’s most fertile and diverse permit saltwater fly fishery. The Unicorn of the Flats Ghostlike, spooky and finicky are three words to describe permit. It is one of the most difficult saltwater fish to catch on the fly and has been the Achilles heel for many saltwater fly angers. But if there is one destination where one can successfully sight cast to large schools of permit consistently, it’s the Sian Ka’an Biosphere. Because of the vast numbers of permit ranging from 2 to 20 pounds, a fly angler will have multiple shots per day. In addition, Yucatan permit are aggressive eaters, making them a great target for the less-experienced or first-time saltwater fly anglers. Flies and Tackle The primary food items for permit are crabs and shrimp. A good selection of these patterns will give the angler the best chance at success. For crab patterns, I like Merkins and Ragheads in sizes 4 and 6. I find the color of the fly should match the color of the habitat you’re fishing. For example, if you’re fishing over light colored sand, then a fly pattern should be tan or even white. If you’re fishing in turtle grass or a darker bottom, then a green or even a dark brown works best. Tackle A 9-foot, 9-weight rod matched with a large arbor reel that holds 250 yards of 30-pound Hi Viz Dacron or micron backing is the perfect combo for Yucatan permit. Since a majority of the fishing is in shallow water, I suggest only using a weight-forward tropical floating line. Keep your leaders long: 10 to 12 feet with 16- to 20-pound tippets. Casting to Permit It’s important to be able to quickly and accurately cast 30 to 60 feet when targeting permit on the flats. Your ability to make longer casts will increase your chances of catching more fish. Of course, you can hook a permit close to the boat, but it’s always to your advantage be able to make the long cast when the opportunity presents itself. The back-hand cast is another to be able to execute. Permit schools will often present themselves on the opposite side of the boat, so being able to make a quick back cast is very important.
For more Bowman, go to
CAMFLYFISHING.COM COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
I
NOVEMBER 2019
I
NATIONAL
15
16
NATIONAL
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NOVEMBER 2019
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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
12/19/18 3:50 PM
êêêêê “The quality of their watches is equal to many that can go for ten times the price or more.” — Jeff from McKinney, TX
“Blue face watches are on the discerning gentleman’s ‘watch list’.” – watchtime.com
Stone Cold Fox So good-looking...heads will turn. So unbelievably-priced...jaws will drop.
E
very once in a while a timepiece comes along that’s so incredibly good looking, masterfully equipped and jaw-droppingly priced, that it stops us stone cold. A watch that can take you seamlessly from the 18th hole to the board room. A watch that blurs the line betweens sports watch and dress watch. We’re talking the Blue Stone Chronograph, and it sits at the top of the discerning gentleman’s watch list. Striking in appearance and fully equipped with features, this is a watch of substance. The Blue Stone merges the durability of steel with the precision of crystal movement that’s accurate to 0.2 seconds a day. Both an analog and digital watch, the Blue Stone keeps time with pinpoint accuracy in two time zones. The watch’s handsome steel blue dial seamlessly blends an analog watch face with a stylish digital display. It’s a stopwatch, calendar, and alarm. Plus, the Blue Stone resists water up to 30 meters, making it up for water adventures. A watch with these features would easily cost you thousands if you shopped big names. But overcharging to justify an inflated brand name makes us blue in the face. Which is why we make superior looking and performing timepieces priced to please. Decades of experience in engineering enables Stauer to put quality on your wrist and keep your money in your pocket.
Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. Experience the Blue Stone Chronograph for 30 days. If you’re not convinced you got excellence for less, send it back for a refund of the item price. Time is running out. Originally priced at $395, the Blue Stone Chronograph was already generating buzz among watch connoisseurs, but with the price slashed to $79, we can’t guarantee this limited-edition timepiece will last. So, call today!
TAKE 80% OFF INSTANTLY!
When you use your OFFER CODE Stauer Blue Stone Chronograph non-offer code price $395† Offer Code Price
$79 + S&P Save $316
You must use the offer code to get our special price.
1-800-333-2045 Your Offer Code: BSW369-03
Please use this code when you order to receive your discount.
Stauer
14101 Southcross Drive W.,
® Ste 155, Dept. BSW369-03
Burnsville, Minnesota 55337
www.stauer.com
Rating of A+
† Special price only for customers using the offer code versus the price on Stauer.com without your offer code.
• Precision movement • Digital and analog timekeeping • LED subdials • Stainless steel crown, caseback & bracelet • Dual time zone feature • Stopwatch • Alarm feature • Calendar: month, day, & date • Water resistant to 3 ATM • Fits wrists 7” to 9”
Stauer…Afford the Extraordinary.®
™
FANTASTIC FALL SAVINGS There's plenty of fish to pull in this fall season and your Suzuki Marine Dealer has exceptional deals to get you out on the water. See your local Suzuki Marine Dealer for all the details!
INSTANT
SAVINGS SAVE RIGHT NOW ON
REP OWE R FIN AN
CE
SELECT SUZUKI OUTBOARDS
TM
SIX YEARS OF PROTECTION
INSTANT SAVINGS
REPOWER FINANCE
3 Years Limited Warranty + 3 Years Extended Protection No extra charge.
Instant Savings on select models when you buy a new Suzuki Outboard. See your dealer for details.
Rates as low as 5.99% on new Suzuki outboards on approved credit.* [60 Months]
Gimme Six Extended Protection promo is applicable to new Suzuki Outboard Motors from 25 to 350 HP in inventory which are sold and delivered to buyer between 10/01/19 and 12/31/19 in accordance with the promotion by a Participating Authorized Suzuki Marine dealer in the continental US and Alaska to a purchasing customer who resides in the continental US or Alaska. Customer should expect to receive an acknowledgement letter and full copy of contract including terms, conditions and wallet card from Suzuki Extended Protection within 90 days of purchase. If an acknowledgement letter is not received in time period stated, contact Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. – Marine Marketing via email: marinepromo@suz.com. The Gimme Six Promotion is available for pleasure use only, and is not redeemable for cash. Instant Savings apply to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki Outboard Motors made between 10/01/19 and 12/31/19. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine. com. Instant Savings must be applied against the agreed-upon selling price of the outboard motor and reflected in the bill of sale. (Suzuki will, in turn, credit Dealer’s parts account.) There are no model substitutions, benefit substitutions, rain checks, or extensions. Suzuki reserves the right to change or cancel these promotions at any time without notice or obligation. * Financing offers available through Synchrony Retail Finance. As low as 5.99% APR financing for 60 months on new and unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors. Subject to credit approval. Not all buyers will qualify. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. $19.99/month per $1,000 financed for 60 months is based on 5.99% APR. Hypothetical figures used in calculation; your actual monthly payment may differ based on financing terms, credit tier qualification, accessories or other factors such as down payment and fees. Offer effective on new, unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors purchased from a participating authorized Suzuki dealer between 10/01/19 and 12/31/19. “Gimme Six”, the Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2019 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.
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