The Angler Magazine | October 2019 | Greater Augusta & CSRA Edition

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GREATER AUGUSTA & CSRA EDITION

Fall's Best Bass Baits

Fly Fishing

WARMWATER REVOLUTION

PRODUCT REVIEW

PHOTO COURTESY OF DENVER OUTFITTERS VOLUME 24 • ISSUE 295

F R A N C H I S E

THEANGLERMAG.COM O P P O R T U N I T I E S

A V A I L A B L E

W O R L D W I D E

OCTOBER 2019

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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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The partially-ported VAYA frame offers the unique combination of minimized weight, incredible rigidity and just enough surface area to highlight Abel’s hand-anodized finishes, which are offered in numerous awesome colors and patterns, from flat black to brown trout, dorado and many more. Available in sizes 4/5, 5/6 and 7/8.

Filson Rugged Twill Compact Rod Case Filson has earned its reputation for sturdy quality construction and products that are overbuilt to handle the rigors sportsmen put their gear through.

The Rugged Twill Compact Rod Case holds two 9-foot, 4-piece rods in their tubes with exterior pockets to hold reels and accessories. This lightweight yet durable case is perfect for days when you’ll need two rods and want to keep them safe when not in use.

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Ross Reels Animas

Rod Vault ST Why waste time threading line through the guides?

The vehicle-mounted fly rod storage solution from Denver Outfitter allows recreational anglers and professionals to arrive at their fishing destination with fly rods and reels intact, fully-rigged and ready to fish.

Two roof-mounted aircraft grade anodized aluminum tubes hold two, three or four fully rigged fly rods up to 10’6 in length, and a locking reel housing area easily fits most fly reels. Protective polypropylene liners inside the Rod Vault eliminate rod on metal contact protecting guides and rod tips from abrasion.

The Rod Vault was specifically over-engineered to keep valuable equipment safe in almost any circumstance. Stainless steel hardware ensures the RodVault will remain rust free no matter the fishing environment and fiberglass infused nylon construction protects the reel housing, mounting hardware and aerodynamic nose cone from UV degradation. Whether storing rods to fish before or after work or traveling across the country on an epic fishing trip the Rod Vault is designed to keep gear safe.

Available in three models, the Rod Vault 2 holds two fly rods, the Rod Vault Original for three fly rods and the Rod Vault 4 holding four fly rods.

Ross Reels has taken the time-proven features that made the original Animas a guide favorite and introduced new machined features to bring the new Animas fly reel into the modern era of Ross.

Proudly Americanmade in Colorado and weighing just over 4 ounces, the new Animas features a compositedisc drag system and an ultra-light canvas phenolic handle, which gets tackier when wet. A new troublefree spool release yields zeromaintenance performance, allowing the Animas to be ready for any fresh or saltwater excursion. The new Animas is available in sizes 4/5, 5/6 and 7/8.

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THE BAHAMAS: BEAUTIFUL, DANGEROUS

although great variability exists between the northern and southern islands. This variability is most easily seen on Andros, the largest Bahamian island, where pine forests dominate in the north and give way to more tropical vegetation in the south.

The majority of The Bahamas are low lying, with about 80 percent of the islands less than 15 feet above sea level. This, along with the fact that the islands span a great distance in warm tropical waters, make them attractive to tourists, who flock in for beautiful beaches, friendly faces and fantastic fishing. The Bahamas are heavily reliant on tourism, and for many “Family Islands,” angling tourism is vital for their survival.

Unfortunately, these geographical traits also make The Bahamas susceptible to flooding and damage from tropical storms and hurricanes.

The expansive nature of the islands of The Bahamas is a mixed blessing.

Being large means Bahamians are more likely to be impacted somewhere in the chain by severe weather, but it also means many areas will remain untouched. This was the case with Hurricane Dorian, which devastated the two most northern islands, Abaco and Grand Bahama, but left countless others unharmed.

The impact from Dorian on Abaco and Grand Bahama is catastrophic, and the outpourings of aid a blessing. One of the best ways to help The Bahamas overcome this tragedy, and future events, is to help the tourism-based economy by travelling to untouched parts of the islands.

The author with a Bahamian bonefish caught from Andros Island while fishing out of the Two Boys Inn with one of the many legendary Neymour For anglers, this is a great opportunity to fish new waters. If you have family of guides. never been, try Andros, the Exumas, Long Island, Bimini, Acklins Island, Crooked Island, Mayaguana, Inagua or many other fantastic destinations

By Tom Karrow throughout The Bahamas. he Bahamas are roughly 700 islands and cays with an additionIn this time of need, take the opportunity to help The Bahamas and Baal 5,000 low-lying rocks. Only about 30 of the 700 islands are hamians by simply booking a trip and getting on the water. Grab your fainhabited, leaving hundreds of tropical islands for wildlife. The vorite rods, reels, lines and leaders, tie up some Gotcha flies and give it a go. chain stretches more than 500 miles from the Island of Inagua in the Tom Karrow, PhDc, MES, BES, BED, is nearing completion of a PhD in Gesoutheast, to the northernmost island of Grand Bahama, an economic ography and Environmental Management, focused on sustainability of The Bahahub for the islands. mian bonefishing industry through ethnography. He was a research fellow at the Situated off the southeast coast of the continental United States, University of The Bahamas and is sponsored by R.L.Winston Fly Rods, Nautilus the climate is dominated by warm tropical-like air and water currents, Fly Reels, FishPond Gear, Costa Sunglasses and Simms.

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Fly Fishing for Southeastern Hybrids and Stripers

By Capt. Wayne Moore

A

cross the region, hybrid and striped bass are some of the most exciting gamefish in our reservoirs. Targeting them with flies can be difficult, but it has to be the most exciting way to catch them.

Any article written about this subject better mention the name Henry Cowen. Having chased stripers on north Georgia’s Lake Lanier for more than 20 years, Cowen is a pioneer of the specialized techniques and tackle it takes. I fish middle-Georgia’s Lake Oconee, and much of what I do was learned from Cowen. There are differences between the two reservoirs, but I believe similar techniques, patterns and equipment can be adapted to catch stripers and hybrids on any lake.

EQUIPMENT I like a 9-foot, 8-weight rod. Scott’s Meridian is my choice, but that model is being replaced by their similar Flex fast-action freshwater, which will probably do the job just as well. Stripers and hybrids pull hard, so you’ll need a decent reel. I use a Lamson Speedstar. It’s not too high end, but it does have a sealed conical drag.

For line, I use RIO Intouch Outbound short intermediate most of the time. This allows me to fish both on the surface and below it without having to change spools.

OPPORTUNITIES AND TACTICS Topwater: Fly fishing for stripers and hybrids when they are feeding on top is exhilarating. Imagine a school of fish knocking threadfin shad into the air. In some cases they’ll rise every 10 square feet for 30 or 40 feet around your boat.

It’s amazing, but it requires specialized conditions. On Oconee, this occurs when water is pumping up from Wallace dam. When water temperatures are warm, it is a brief, first-light bite, but as the water cools it lasts longer.

I cast a Cowen’s Somethin’ Else, a wiggle minnow, or a Pop-N-

Fly rig. The Somethin’ Else is my go-to fly. If they are schooling, I approach with as much stealth as possible and make a long cast just beyond and in front of the rising fish. The retrieve is critical. Cowen calls it “feeding the fish.” It is five short strips followed by a pause. If you get bit, get the fish on reel quickly. You’d be surprised how fast charging hybrids can snap a leader.

The wiggle minnow is fished differently, same basic cast, but you need to keep the fly moving. Often it’s good to put the rod under your arm and strip with both hands. Gary Dubiel’s Pop-N-Fly is a popping cork for a fly rod. Tie in a feathered, white floating fly behind it, and it is deadly.

Chasing Gulls: This usually fires up on Oconee in November and is very good in December. It’s a tactic employed by striper and hybrid fishermen all over the Southeast. While this is a topwater bite, and you will see the gulls dive bombing shad, use the Somethin’ Else exclusively during this time and you will have greater success.

Night Fishing: If you like to get up very early or don’t mind fishing at night, darkness may offer the best probability of connecting with a striper or hybrid. Dock lights are key.

Approach very quietly and work the outer edges of the light.

Again, use intermediate line and Somethin’ Else.

Be ready to haul a big fish away from the dock pilings in a hurry. If you get a big striper on, it might require assistance from the trolling motor.

Fishing Humps: When the fish are not on top, it’s time to locate humps with your electronics and fish deep. On Oconee, this usually means humps that rise from 30 feet or deeper up to 15 feet. You’ll need sink-tip line for this tactic and a short piece of 12-lb. fluorocarbon leader.

Cast past the hump and count down the fly as it drops to the fish.

The count will vary depending on the fly and line you’re using.

Capt. Wayne Moore owns Oconee On The Fly. Check them out at www.oconeeonthefly.com.

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SOUTHEAST

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Greater Augusta & Central Savannah River Area

GET OUTSIDE AND EXPLORE Proudly covering Lakes Sinclair, Oconee, Clarks Hill / Thurmond, Greenwood, Russell, Hartwell, Rabun, Burton, and the Tugaloo, Tallulah, Chatooga, and Savannah rivers Contact Capt. Tim Sparks The Angler Magazine | Greater Augusta & CSRA 706-550-7019 | tim@theanglermagazine.com

O

ne of our goals with The Angler Magazine Greater Augusta & CSRA is to highlight fun and interesting places in the area to visit and great local businesses to frequent and support. In the first few issues we pointed out some great camping spots and, in each issue, we of course talk about where and how to catch fish. Last month we highlighted Broadway Tackle, an Augusta tradition for more than 38 years. This month we highlight Highrail Southern Eatery in Thomson, which has been serving up great food and entertainment since opening in 2018, as well as CanalFest 2019, coming November 2nd. Fall is here and temperatures are beginning to cool, even if ever so slightly, so take the family or a friend and go explore all that our area has to offer. Enjoy the great outdoors and see you on (or near) the water! — Capt. Tim Sparks

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Lake Report & Forecast CLARKS HILL / THURMOND LAKE STRIPED BASS, HYBRIDS AND CRAPPIE

T

he lake is currently three feet low and surface temperatures are hovering around 82 degrees in the morning. The summer sun is hanging on deep into September and the fish have responded by staying deep on the lower end of the lake. As fall arrives, topwater schooling activity can be anticipated.

When acres of fish blow up on the surface, even the most experienced anglers Lisa and friends from Savannah Lakes Village can get overcome with excitement and joy. These fish can be targeted with a variety of weapons such as pencil poppers, Zara Spooks and Sammy “walk the dog” lures. Weighted soft plastics like the Zoom Super Fluke Jr are a staple as well as chrome rattle

Bent rods and all smiles on a guided fishing trip traps, small casting spoons and Alabama rigs. A good pair of binoculars and patience are required but you can have your heart pounding out of your chest in no time. Topwater activity is already happening on the upper end of the lake below Richard B. Russell Dam and mid-lake around the Highway 378 bridge. Give us a call and get in on the action. You will not be disappointed.

— Capt. Tony Shepherd and Capt. Rocky Fulmer Little River Guide Service / 706-210-3474 / littleriverguideservice.net

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t is our goal to provide our patients with the tools you need to optimize your health and

appearance of your skin by offering the best medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology care available. Dr. Florentino and her exceptional staff are here to answer your questions and we are committed to providing excellent care in a safe and friendly atmosphere. We want you to always look and feel your very best!

Give us a call at 706.922.3376 to schedule your appointment today!

Competitively priced full-day fishing charters for all levels of experience, equipment, bait, tackle and fish cleaning provided. Fish from the most comfortable, safe and stable boat on the lake.

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Lake Report & Forecast

Guided Fly Fishing and Conventional Tackle Trips for Hybrids, Stripers, and Crappie Booking now, novice or experienced anglers. On the water instruction, top of the line fly gear!

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LAKE OCONEE

’ll never forget what venerable Lake Oconee guide Doug Nelms said when I told him I wanted to be a guide here several years ago. “We all had to learn somewhere” he said. Being the “newbie” guide I was concerned as I had been warned from a guide on the coast that “they are going to hate your guts.”

Turned out that even though I was going to be yet another guide vying for customers here, they have all been great. Kevin Alexander from Crappie Time guide service came on my boat to give me long line tutorials and that’s just one example.

I would say that all the guides here are willing to help each other and that benefits the customers.

Of course, there are some limitations, especially with crappie fisherman. News travels fast of crappie biting here. Moving to the crappie forecast, I’ll share some general tips, but I cannot overstate that if you want to catch crappie now, you need to hire one of the guides on Oconee. It will be money well spent!

Hybrids / Stripers – At Hybrid on a fly the time of this writing, we are suffering an unbearable heat wave and that has really shut down the hybrid / striper bite. There is still a very brief early morning bite when Georgia Power is pumping up water from Lake Sinclair. Popping corks work during this time, and if you can cast a fly rod fairly well, you will connect with some nice size hybrids during this brief frenzy.

As we move into October and if the temperature drops, I look for the topwater bite to pick up and last longer. Hopefully it will be cool enough to see a revival of the pump-back bite at the dam. Once we get past October fall and winter fishing will see return of the gulls, sight-fishing for hybrids and stripers, and the fish will be active throughout the midlake area. I can’t wait!

Crappie – As mentioned above, I’ll share some tips here. The guides that specialize in crappie (and some specialize in this kind of crappie fishing) are targeting brush piles and specific trees in areas of submerged timber. Is it easy? Yes, if you have a guide that knows where the fish are, can maneuver the boat on top of or near them (and keep it there without spooking them), and all you have to do is pull the fish in. In a given stand of timber there may only be one or two areas loaded with fish. Let’s say that the brush or timber that holds the fish is in 30 feet of water and the timber comes to within 12 feet of the surface. You must fish in a 10-foot diameter area above them. Go outside of that and you will not get a bite.

As you can see, this takes skill. Hire a guide!

Final words – I offer combination trips, so you can fly fish and use spinning rods for light tackle fun. As we move into fall and winter, fishing will be very good for hybrids, stripers, and crappie! E-mail me at wmoore1700 @outlook.com or call 404-317-9556 and lock in your fall dates. Tight Lines, and God bless.

— Oconee on the Fly / Wayne Moore USCG Licensed Captain

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Lake Report & Forecast LAKE RUSSELL

S

horter days and longer nights of fall bring cooler surface temperatures to our lakes. The morning air is crisp and cool and makes for a very enjoyable time on the water. Opportunities for a wide variety of species exist. You can choose to pursue crappie, yellow perch, white perch, bass, or striper.

Bass – Bass are holding on points in the larger creeks. Look for them to be around schools of threadfin shad in 12-20 feet of water.

Small crankbaits or drop-shot will be the lures of choice. Also, the chance for topwater action increases with the cooling temperatures.

Crappie – Look for crappie to bite small minnows fished over brush piles and sometimes on the bottom of the lip of a creek channel.

The best depth is 15-25 feet.

Perch – The yellow perch and white perch sometimes school together. Other times they don’t, but the pattern remains the same.

Fish minnows on a drop-shot rig or jig a metal spoon on deep flats i n 30-40 feet of water. Expect to catch a few bass mixed in.

Striper – This is not my favorite time of year to target stripers on Lake Russell. There are a few fish still hanging around in the summer pattern but most of theme have scattered because the comfortable water temperatures enable them to roam. Fishing for stripers will get easier when a true winter pattern develops.

— Wendell Wilson Wilson’s Guide Service / 706-283-3336

Regain and her dad, Seth, with a nice largemouth

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ater temperature - mid-70s Water level - 2 1/2 feet below full pool As the water cools in October, most fish move shallower and become more active.

Hybrids and stripers will school in the surface early and late. They could school in the surface all during the day on a cloudy day. Most fish will still be in the lower half of the Lake in October. When they school early in the month, I like to throw a Lucky Craft Sammy in ghost minnow color. If the water is choppy, I will switch to a Lucky Craft Gunfish lure in ghost minnow. The lure is cupped to make more commotion.

By late month the fish will switch from feeding on herring to eating threadfin shad, then I fish with a small shad imitation. This usually happens when the water cools to a certain point and turnover starts. Fishing can get tricky then. Fish do not like when the water turns over.

It depletes the oxygen in the water. It turns the water a dark brown.

Look for greener water. Try not to fish after a cold snap. Wait till the weather is stable for a few days. Largemouth bass and spotted bass also become more active in October. The bass move shallower to feed more aggressively after a hot summer. The lake also becomes deserted in October with football and hunting in full swing. Get out and enjoy the fall on Lake Hartwell. The leaves are beautiful in October.

— Preston Harden / Bucktail Guide Service 706-255-5622 / bucktailguideservice.com

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Lake Report & Forecast CLARKS HILL / THURMOND LAKE CATFISH

O

ctober is one of the best months for catching big blues and flatheads on Clarks Hill Lake. Fish will typically be migrating towards deep water at this time and feeding pretty heavily.

Anchoring on rock ledges in the 30-foot range and being able to fan-cast up to 20 feet and down to 60 feet is usually the best Marlena with a big October blue depth range. Main lake humps in that depth range are also good. Live bream is good for flatheads and cut gizzard shad is good for big blues. Herring is good for catching one-to 10-pound fish.

— Chris Simpson / Fightin’ Da Blues Catfish Guide Service 864-992-2352 / fightindablues.com

LAKE SINCLAIR

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ater temperature – 80s Lake level - down 1.5 feet Clarity – stained Bass fishing is fair. Shad and baitfish are moving back in the pockets and creeks, giving us a preview of what the fall transition will be like. Throwing buzz baits or torpedo style prop baits are good choices. Any top water action is limited, and you must be ready as they do not stay up long. Shallow crank baits and top water are hard to beat in the morning and evening. The best crank bait for both quantity and quality has been the Spro Little John 50 in the Nasty Shad color. Fish this crank bait around sea walls, docks and points adjacent to the main river channel. A jig and a shaky head are still catching fish around brush piles and shady docks. A green pumpkin Buckeye Mop jig has been the bait of choice around these brush piles and docks. If you don’t get a bite on the jig, try a Buckeye Spot Remover shaky head in the same place to get a few extra bites. A green pumpkin Zoom trick worm is the best plastic to pair with the shaky head. The deep bite is still consistent in depths of 18 to 23 feet. Carolina rigs, drop shot rigs, and a Spro Little John DD crank bait are best in the offshore locations. As always, the deep bite will be best when Georgia Power is moving water.

— Ken Sturdivant / southernfishing.com

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Local Rivers & Fly Fishing CHATOOGA RIVER

T

hrough mid-September summer has had a strong hold on us here. Higher than average temperatures and no rain to speak of has kept the water temperatures above normal.

The bass and panfish on the rivers have been great to fish as the trout have been for the most part on the bottoms of the rivers, seeking thermal refuge. The outlook for the weather forecast is for much cooler temperatures and much needed rain. We are all praying for both of those! As the cooler air temperatures start to arrive, the water temperatures will start to cool down and the trout fishing will just keep getting better.

Delayed harvest season starts on the South Carolina rivers November 1 and continues through May 14. October is a great time to get out on the rivers to stretch your line with some fish and enjoy the fall colors in the mountains. We’re looking forward to seeing trout as they move out of the depths of the rivers.

Along with the falling water temperatures, the emergence of the fall hatches blesses us again. Swinging nymphs and soft-hackles on a dead-drift is essential to a great day on the river. An upstream cast, a mend or two of your line, and letting these fine bugs drift freely, with no

drag, all the way down stream, will produce fish. We have noticed with the cooler than normal early fall temperatures that some of the fall hatches are appearing on the rivers a little earlier than most years.

Streamer fishing will be great this fall season as well. There are a tremendous number of shiners, minnows, and sculpins throughout the watersheds. Targeting fish in the seam lines, just off the big runs of the rivers, will be beneficial. Cast the streamers upstream, “dead-drift and twitch” through the drift, and then a strip and pause retrieve, will be rewarding. For a full line of bugs and streamers, stop by and see us, and check out the new arrivals to fulfill your fall fly fishing adventure.

As we travel from one water system to another, remember to give equipment a good cleaning to avoid any transfer of invasive species. Also, as we enjoy the scenery and rivers that we fish, please “leave no trace.” Just a couple of ways to help take care of the things we love. We hope to see everyone out on the rivers!

— Chattooga River Fly Shop / chatoogariverflyshop.com 6832-A Highlands Hwy. Mountain Rest, SC 29664 / 864-638-2806

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the day progressed Clarks Hill Dam started generating power around 2pm which seemed to push the fish near logs and stumps where the fish were more active because of the moving water. The lure of choice for this structure was a weightless senko in junebug. Moving water is the key to a successful day of fishing when the weather is hot and the sky is clear. As always, if you have any questions feel free to stop by Number One Tackle 100 Cherokee Dr. North Augusta S.C. 29841 and like, share and subscribe to the Yak Krew on YouTube.

— Dustin Moore / Number One Tackle Manager

PAIR OF JACKS

The Yak Krew, Chase and Walker, in action

W

eather: 95 degrees, clear, winds light and variable Water temperature: 75 degrees Water Clarity: 80c Clear / Current speed: 3 mph Low Current lure selection: Junebug Senko, Segmented Hard Swimbait 3-5-inch, Rage Tail Twin Tail Grub Summer Craw High Current lure selection: 5/16 Spotremover Jighead with black Trickworm or black and blue Rage Tail Craw This is a special celebrity report brought to you by Number One Tackle and the Yak Krew YouTube channel. Walker and Chase started in the upper Savannah River near Deep Step before the sun came up. While launching the kayaks, Chase made a quick cast off the launch dock and caught the first fish of the day on the segmented hard swimbait. Early in the day Chase and Walker both threw the swimbait along the grass line targeting feeding bass waiting to ambush small bait that is carried in the current down the grass line. Once the sun was over the trees the swimbait became less effective, so they changed to a slower presentation as the bass seemed to be more lethargic in the warmer temperature. At this point, twin tail grub was a more subtle or finesse technique which produced two or three fish near deep holes. The best way to target these fish was to pitch into the hole, let the grub hit the bottom, and slowly retrieve the grub with as much bottom contact as possible. As

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ater temperature – 83 degrees Lake level – full pool Clarity: clear Bass - The bite has been a little slow lately. Most of the fish we have been catching are over a 40 to 50-foot bottom. We have been down lining blueback herring out over the main lake channel working up and down long points. We have had some success in the mornings catching largemouth in and around docks with dark colored plastic worms. Look for these fish to start coming up shallow over the next week or two and the topwater bite to turn on.

Trout - Trolling has been the most productive bite lately. We have been trolling Lucky Craft (Staysee 90s) in herring colors. We have been trolling at 16 to 25 feet for the brown trout. We have also caught spotted bass and chain pickerel while doing this. Look for the trout to start schooling up over deep water over the next few weeks. These fish will then become aggressive and start biting great!

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— Wes Carlton / Georgia Lake Fishing 770-318-9777 / georgialakefishing.com GREATER AUGUSTA & CSRA

OCTOBER 2019

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM 9

Angler Spotlight

B

Th

A GREAT PLACE TO EAT AND RELAX IN THOMSON

efore Ken and Lisa Sweet opened Highrail Southern Eatery in Thomson in May 2018, they lived very different lives. For one thing, they worked for the Boeing Company and lived in various cities throughout the country, including Seattle. Ken worked as a Financial Executive, and Lisa was an IT professional. They retired in 2011, and in 2012, left the city life behind, moved to rural Lincoln County, and built a home on Clarks Hill Lake. Originally from Oshkosh, Wisconsin, Sweet, 68, graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a BBA in Accounting and began his career as a CPA. The building Highrail occupies has a story of its own. Constructed in 1910, it served as Hadaway’s Department Store, a men’s and women’s clothing business, for many years. According to Sweet, they removed the large department store display windows at the front but kept the original beams inside and much of the external structure of the brick building.

Located about three miles from I20 off Exit 172 and close to half an hour from Augusta, the restaurant serves freshly prepared appetizers; steaks; seafood; sandwiches; salads, and desserts. Highrail also features a full

His name is Brien McKenzie who relocated from Texas and serves as one of the restaurant’s chefs along with Executive Chef Mike McKinney from Augusta. It was also hard starting the business and attracting customers, he said. He opened the restaurant to give local residents a convenient place to get a good meal and provide job opportunities to local young people. But Sweet goes beyond just giving them a place to work. He also teaches his employees how to treat others, a valuable life lesson. “There’s one thing I tell my employees from day one: We treat everyone with respect, whether it be a coworker, a customer, or a vendor,” said Sweet.

My girlfriend and I visited Highrail for Sunday brunch and were impressed by the inviting atmosphere, excellent food, and prompt, friendly service. Everything on the menu was so tempting that selecting just one dish was a bit of a challenge. I finally chose the Breakfast Bowl, which included a generous portion of sausage, scrambled eggs, ham, and potatoes. It was also served with a piece of toast. Everything was both delicious and reasonably priced. My girlfriend ordered the Bacon and Egg Sandwich with a side of homemade chips. She enjoyed her meal as well and allowed me to try the chips, which were very tasty. We quickly agreed that the meal was well worth the drive and vowed to return to sample some more of Highrail’s extensive menu options.

When he’s not working at the restaurant, Sweet enjoys fishing in the lake near his home. The largest fish he’s ever caught was a 10-12-pound striper. Married for 20 years, the Sweets also have six Owners Ken and Lisa Sweet children and 10 grandchildren.

Highrail is open for lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday for brunch from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

— Josh Heath

bar and often has trivia contests and live entertainment performed by local bands and musicians. Sweet said what he enjoys most about owning Highrail is meeting customers from all over the United States and the world, including people from countries as far away as England, Scotland, and Ireland. The railroad plays an integral role in Thomson’s history, so the Sweets chose a fitting name for their restaurant. In fact, the city was founded in 1837 and was named after John Edgar Thomson, chief engineer of the Georgia Railroad.

While the couple’s finance and IT backgrounds have been helpful in starting the business, they had never run a restaurant before. The Sweets knew they needed help to be successful in this new business venture.

“One of the biggest challenges was learning to run a small business,” he said. “We hired an experienced general manager.”

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122 Main Street, Thomson, Georgia 706-986-5982 | www.highrail.net HOURS: Monday – Saturday: 11am – 10pm Sunday Brunch: 11am – 4pm

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Conservation

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CANALFEST IS BACK!

oin the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area and Gerald Jones Subaru for the 4th annual CanalFEST! CanalFEST is a FREE community event to promote Canal Keeper memberships and outdoor canal festivities.

We’re planning a full day of family fun, fresh air, fitness, and food. Try your hand at fly fishing with “Project Healing Waters,” kayaking with “Savannah Rapids Kayak Rental,” or jump on a Petersburg Boat guided canal tour. Check out the arts and crafts, food trucks, children’s area, and live entertainment- including local favorites Tara Scheyer and Eryn Eubanks and the Family Fold! Begin your day with the CanalFEST Fun Run/5K ($10 registration). All proceeds support the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area’s recreation and education programs.

Our first festival, held in 2016, was in honor of the National Park Service’s centennial year, and the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area’s 20thCF19_MagazineAds_July2019_All.pdf anniversary. We built on that success over the2:58 nextPMthree 1 7/18/19 years, offering more than 30 exhibitors, live music, games, food,

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tours, races, pet adoptions, outdoor sports demonstrations, and much more. Our participation doubled to an estimated 2500 visitors and raised over $15,000 for recreational programs. We are building on three years of success and growing CanalFEST as a local and regional annual event.

The Augusta Canal National Heritage Area, Inc. is a 501(c)3 charitable organization that supports the work of the Augusta Canal Authority, the public steward of the canal. The Authority’s mission is to “preserve, protect and interpret the canal’s man-made and natural

environments through historic preservation, interpretation, education, recreation, conservation, and economic development.” In 1996 Augusta Canal attained National Heritage Area status, making it a partner of the National Park Service. The canal is now naturalized and home to hundreds of freshwater plants and animals. We protect over 2,000 acres of land with over 25 miles of trails.

The Augusta Canal Authority also manages an award-winning Discovery Center in an 1870’s textile mill. This museum offers visitors a hands-on learning experience about the history of the canal and textile industry in Augusta. We also offer Petersburg Boat Tours aboard a replica cotton barge that was used to carry goods to town in the 1800s. These tours are presented by trained tour guides that share the landmarks, history, and science of the canal. This year, we serviced approximately 8,000 students on canal field trips and 18,000 visitors on boat tours.

“In the past a Lock Keeper lived at the head gates, attending to the canal’s safekeeping. Today’s Augusta Canal Keepers carry on in that spirit of stewardship,” states Dayton Sherrouse, Executive Director. As a way to promote our mission and raise funds, we have the Canal Keeper Member Program. During CanalFEST we offer a special tent where members can mingle, enjoy free food, drinks, admission to activities, plus designated parking and seating near the main stage.

This is our way of saying THANKS to our Canal Keeper supporters!

For information about the CanalFEST schedule, activities and registration, visit augustacanal.com/festival. See you at the canal on November 2!

— Julianna Shurtleff, Development and Volunteer Coordinator

12 GREATER AUGUSTA & CSRA

OCTOBER 2019

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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM 13

Fishing and Hunting Perspective PATIENCE, PATIENCE, AND A LITTLE MORE PATIENCE

A

lot of people think they have patience until the time finally comes to use it.

Patience is one of those things that applies to every outdoorsman out there. Whether you are an angler, a hunter, or enjoy anything else in the outdoors, we all need patience in the different situations that we encounter. Talking to my fellow anglers out there first, how many times have you been trolling along the bank and seen a gorgeous looking tree laying in the water to flip into? This situation is pretty common, but the temptation to not have any patience is the real kicker. Let’s look at it from a bigger picture. Two buddies are fishing down a bank in their boat and see a perfect laydown ahead that looks like a dream to flip a jig into. No harm, no foul… yet.

Stepping back to get a different perspective shows us that there is so much more going on in that moment. Both anglers’ minds are wondering who is going to flip first because they each want to be the one to catch the fish that is potentially in the laydown, but they also don’t want to lose their cool by flinging a rocket launcher cast before they get within flipping range. Well… a lack of patience takes over and sure enough the guy up front has had enough and flings that jig as hard as he can right into the middle of the laydown. The lure gets caught up in the tree, and just like that, no patience in one situation leads to an even worse situation; jerking the rod around violently trying to get the lure unsnagged before getting closer, and finally… POP! The last one of “the only jig they’ll bite” is at the

bottom of the lake and the laydown is ruined. No patience… no fish.

The hunting side of patience isn’t that much different. There are plenty of hunters out there that are determined to take a shot on a deer from the first moment the slightest opportunity arises.

These are the hunters that usually tell you a story about the one that got away or the ones who have their favorite tracking dog owner on speed dial every year. They get into a rush and try to take a shot on an alert deer instead of waiting for the right moment, a perfect, relaxed shot broadside. If you take the bad shot, you’ve usually got a heck of walking distance to cover ahead (and a bill to pay for the tracking dog). If you missed, that deer is going to be blowing enough to make sure you don’t see another one for the rest of the day.

Now I know this doesn’t apply as much to hunting with a gun, but bow hunters know this all too well. Wait for the right shot folks!

Just remember, patience is like a good investment; the more you put into it, the more you are going to get out of it. God Bless!

— Ryan Kennedy Email: ryankfishing@gmail.com YouTube: Ryan Kennedy Fishing Instagram: @ryankfishing Facebook: Ryan Kennedy Fishing

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FALL IS HERE - IT’S TIME TO GET OUTSIDE & EXPLORE

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FALL MEANS TOPWATER FISHING

M

y most favorite type of fishing is with topwater plugs. It’s all visual. How you work the plug…watching a fish come up from the depths to check it out…and the explosive strike that follows, is what keeps me coming back for more.

As summer fades away and the cooler days of fall show up, fish begin their seasonal movement from deep water haunts to shallower locations as they start filling their bellies in advance of the winter. This is the perfect time to dust off those surface plugs and experience the adrenaline rush associated with topwater action.

Topwater plugs come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Essentially, the idea is to present them as a struggling or fleeing baitfish. For shapes, there’s the chugging/popper style, walk-the-dog style, swimming shapes, and variations of each.

Topwater Chug Bug Bass I’ve got an assortment of sizes and colors in my topwater tray, dog style plug that has internal rattles, and it’s deadly on both fresh Topwater Plugs and virtually any of them will and saltwater gamefish. My preferred colors are the blue back/silver, catch fish, but I do have a couple favorites that I’ve come to trust over the black back/silver and the black back/orange belly. They do a great the years. And as we all know, having “confidence” in a lure is a factor in job of mimicking a struggling bait, and they’re almost irresistible to producing fish. everything with fins. The key to any walk-the-dog plug is getting the My ‘go-to’ topwater bait is the MirroLure Top Dog. It’s a walk-thecadence correct with your retrieve. I like to keep my rod tip down and use short twitches as I retrieve. This makes the plug ‘walk’ left, then right, with each twitch. I make a cast and let the plug sit for at least five seconds before doing anything, then start the retrieve. Sometimes the fish will hit on the first twitch. Other times, they will literally follow the plug to the boat. So, it’s important to work the plug all the way back. And if you get a follower, keep retrieving. Your plug might get hit several times as you retrieve. Big fish like to play cat-and-mouse. They will slap the bait, knocking it out of the water. And ultimately, they will commit and then it’s game-on.

My other favorite is the chugging/popper style. Chuggers create a lot of commotion on the retrieve. The Chug Bug has been around for decades, and it’s produced a lot of fish. Again, I like the blue/silver and the orange/ white color combos. The cast/retrieve formula is similar to the Top Dog, except I tend to slow down the cadence and use more forceful twitches to really displace some water with each pull. It’s hard to fish this plug wrong, just remember keep things at a slower pace. The strike will seem as though it comes from nowhere, and the fish will virtually hook itself.

One skill you should learn is how to tie a Loop Knot. The open loop, versus the knot cinched down on the eye, allows the bait to work more freely and you get a better action from your plugs.

You can get a great idea of how effective these plugs are by watching the Nuts & Bolts of Fishing Topwater episodes in our video library on CarbonTV.com and we show how to tie the Loop Knot in our Pro Tips segments on the Nuts & Bolts of Fishing website.

Topwater plugs will fool fish from Oregon to Georgia. Spotted bass, smallmouth, stripers, pike and muskies in freshwater…and redfish, speckled trout, dolphin, sharks and mackerel in the salt. So, add a few Sales, Service, Storage & Parts to your tackle box this fall and get ready for some explosive fishing fun.

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OCTOBER 2019

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ne of the best times of the year I like to fish is in the fall. You just can’t beat it. However, many anglers ask what baits should I be throwing in the fall to catch fish? What signs should I be looking for? And where do I go to catch fish? Let’s take a moment to review some of these questions and shed some light on one of the best times of the year to be fishing.

There are primarily two times of the year when bass tend to make significant adjustments when it comes to location. One is spring and the other is fall. In both seasons you consistently hear of mega bags of fish being caught. In the fall, bass move from their deep summer haunts to shallow water.

What baits should you be throwing in the fall? One of my top choices I recommend throwing in the fall is either the Strike King Red Eye lipless crankbait or a Zara Spook. They are perfect to match the big schools of baitfish bass are chasing while feeding up for the winter. The next bait I will throw is KVD Strike King 200 or 300 series jerk baits. It’s just hard to beat them in the fall, especially if there is a little wind blowing. Last, but not least, is the Fish Head Primal Spinnerbait. One way I use the spinnerbait in the fall, especially if the water is a bit stained, is to work the bait using short casts around cover such as laydowns and shallow brush.

What should I be looking for in the fall to target fish? Some of the typical things you will notice in the fall is aggressive fish feeding. Look for schooling fish on the surface and look for the birds on the water as they will help you locate baitfish in the area. If you see great blue heron stalking the bank, this is a good indicator that bait is nearby and bass are not too far away either.

Where do you go to catch fish in the fall? Creek channels get my attention first, as bass tend to use the ditches to make migration routes toward the shallow water to feed. A flat area can be a feeding ground in the early morning. Most of the fall I usually stay shallow unless there is a long streak of hot weather that keeps the lake temperature high, so the lake has a delay in turnover. I will then stay out a little deeper, but not much though. My next stops are holding areas such as rocks and wood, as they will hold some quality fish. I try to stay fishing close to creek channel structure near shallow water as they tend to produce and reload throughout the day. Be aware of how fast the drawdown on the lake takes place, as this will pull the fish out of the shallows and into deeper water.

Take time to enjoy everything fall has to offer. Some impressive views of the trees turning colors and the crisp air in the morning can not be beaten. When bass fishing in the fall, you can really catch some quality fish. Knowing what baits to use, understanding what to look for, and knowing where to go will help cut down on endless searching for bass in the fall.

Remember to take time to follow me on Social Media, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and at www.jaystriker.com.

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OCTOBER 2019

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM 17

Fishing Event Calendar

2019/2020 GA Bass Nation High School Schedule Oct 12

Lake Lanier

Laurel Park

CHC Mr. Clark Hill Tournament.............................................................. Oct 4-5 (chcfishing.com) Clarks Hill Lake, Wildwood Park Ramp

Nov 30

Lake Chatuge

Fairgrounds

Jan 11

Lake Eufaula

Lakepoint

Berry’s Tournament Trail.............................................................................. Oct 5 (berrysbass.com) Lake Oconee, Sugar Creek Marina

Feb 22

Lake Seminole

Big Jim’s

Feb 23

Tired Creek

Mar 14

Clarks Hill Lake

Wildwood Park

Apr 4

Lake Hartwell

Tugaloo

May 2

Lake Eufaula

Lakepoint

Jun 5/6

Lake Lanier

Laurel Park

Peach State Crappie Club...........................................................................Oct 12 (Peach State Crappie Club on Facebook) Lake Oconee Paralyzed Veterans of America........................................................ Oct 12-13 Clarks Hill Lake, Wildwood Park Ramp

(Top 20 AOY – Format)

Berry’s Tournament Trail............................................................................Oct 19 (berrysbass.com) Lake Sinclair, Dennis Station DNR Ramp Bass Pro Shops Big Bass....................................................................... Oct 19-20 Clarks Hill Lake, Wildwood Park Ramp GA Slab Masters Tournament Trail........................................................Oct 26 (Jamie Moore 478-230-7703) Lake Oconee Clarks Hill Youth Open.................................................................................. Nov 2 Clarks Hill Lake, Wildwood Park Ramp Berry’s Tournament Trail............................................................................. Nov 2 (berrysbass.com) Lake Oconee, Sugar Creek Marina Berry’s Tournament Trail...........................................................................Nov 16 (berrysbass.com) Lake Sinclair, Dennis Station DNR Ramp CHC Toys for Tots Tournament................................................................Nov 30 (chcfishing.com) Pre-registration Tuesday, Nov 26 Clarks Hill Lake, Wildwood Park Ramp GA Slab Masters Tournament Trail.......................................................Nov 30 (Jamie Moore 478-230-7703) Clarks Hill Lake Peach State Crappie Club........................................................................... Jan 11 (Peach State Crappie Club! on Facebook) Lake Sinclair GA Slab Masters Tournament Trail........................................................Feb 29 (Jamie Moore 478-230-7703) Lake Oconee Peach State Crappie Club.......................................................................... Mar 07 (Peach State Crappie Club! on Facebook) Clarks Hill Lake GA Slab Masters Tournament Trail....................................................... Mar 14 (Jamie Moore 478-230-7703) Clarks Hill Lake Peach State Crappie Club.......................................................................... Mar 18 (Peach State Crappie Club! on Facebook) Lake Oconee

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OCTOBER 2019

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FLY FISHING’S

WARMWATER REVOLUTION

By Nick Carter

T

here’s a brutish undercurrent gaining momentum in fly fishing.

Whether it’s river-run striped bass, muskie or carp, long-rodders are targeting freshwater’s most powerful fish. Here are a few destinations where you can get in on the action.

James River Photo courtesy of Matt Miles Muskie, Virginia The James River is one of the few rivers in the east that supports a fishable wild muskie population.

Guide Matt Miles eagerly pointed out that most of the fish they catch, the 35- to 42-inchers, were spawned wild in the upper James.

He said the monster 50-inchers might have originally come from the hatchery, but they still prowl the river, ready to give anglers the adrenaline rush of a lifetime.

Between Iron Gate and Lynchburg, Va., more than 80 miles of the James are considered muskie water. The relatively shallow pool and riffle habitat is uniquely suited to hunting freshwater’s biggest, toothiest fish with a fly rod.

But muskie fishing isn’t for everyone. Casting waterlogged, 14-inch-long streamers on sinking lines with 10- and 11-weight rods is a workout. Doing it all day in hope of a single take requires mental fortitude. Peak muskie season is October through mid-March.

Saluda & Congaree River Striper, South Carolina Each spring, South Carolina striped bass go on the move. From the Santee-Cooper Lakes between Columbia and Charleston, fish run some 60 miles up the Congaree and arrive in Columbia to spawn in April.

By early May they push into the lower Saluda, where they spend the summer in the cold-water refuge of a 10-mile stretch of tailwater.

Jake Howard, of Saluda Valley Guides, tapes his thumbs during the June through August heart of the striper season because they become raw from lipping fish. He told of huge numbers of stripers and said 60-fish days are possible for anglers who can lay out line with a 10-weight rod and 350-grain sinking lines. The standard fish weighs 4 to 8 pounds, but 20-, 30- and even 50-pounders are caught each season.

Catawba Chain Carp, North Carolina More than 15 years ago, Capt. Paul Rose left the Texas coast with his flats skiff in tow. He settled in the North Carolina Piedmont, far from the salt marshes he loves. But he found a new passion in the clear Catawba River lakes between Asheville and Charlotte, N.C. In the shallows, he watched carp tailing like redfish.

The fishing style that arose is a lot like sight casting to bonefish.

Rose poles anglers over clear-water flats, searching for pods of carp rooting and feeding. Many clients hire Rose to practice before a trip to the Bahamas. They return because carp are so much fun.

Fish from 3 pounds up to 20 pounds call for a 6- or 7-weight rod.

The peak season on impoundments like Lake Norman and Lake James runs from May through September.

Nick Carter is the author of “Flyfisher’s Guide to North Carolina & Georgia.” It is available on Amazon.com, and autographed copies are available by emailing the author at nsc8957@gmail.com.

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n enormous 40-pound, 6-ounce brown trout caught at Lake Taneycomo in southwest Missouri is a new state record and just a couple pounds shy of the IGFA all-tackle world record.

Bill Babler, a veteran fishing guide from Blue Eye, Mo., caught the monster brown on Sept. 4 using a pink Berkley plastic worm. He caught it on 6x tippet, which equates to less than 4-pound test, making his catch 2 ounces heavier than the current IGFA 4-pound line class record.

The previous state record, set just seven months, weighed 34 pounds, 10 ounces. It was also caught at Lake Taneycomo.

Babler told the Springfield News-Leader he’d only been out fishing for a few minutes when he caught his new state record.

“As soon as I set the hook it came to the top and I knew we had a good fish on,” Babler told the newspaper. “We positioned the boat in an unobstructed area.

It was pulling drag pretty good!”

Babler attempted to keep the behemoth alive in an aerated tank, but unfortunately the trout died before it could be released.

Fisheries Biologist Shane Bush said the fish was eight or nine-years-old.

For more information on Missouri state-record fish, visit the MDC website at https://short.mdc.mo.gov/Z3t.

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Ultimate Control For Saltwater Fishing Boats The Dometic Group Introduces New Optimus Electric Steering Actuator

S

altwater anglers who fish aboard today’s large center console fishing machines and other high-performance outboard powered boats will soon be able to experience a new level of precision steering and vessel control.

The Dometic Group is introducing its new Optimus Universal Electric Steering Actuator.

Incorporating proprietary technology and several new components designed and manufactured by Dometic, this new actuator is built exclusively for use with its Optimus Joystick and Electric Power Steering Systems.

About the same size as the Dometic Tournament Cylinder, the Optimus Electric Steering Actuator mounts directly on the outboard in place of the present hydraulic cylinder. With its powerful drive train, integrated proprietary position sensors and embedded electronics, it eliminates the need for separately mounted hydraulic actuators used in the Optimus Joystick and EPS systems. This means no more Pump Control Module, no more hydraulic pump, no more hoses, hydraulic cylinders and fluid, and no more purging the system.

“We are continually inventing ways to make boat building more efficient and boating more enjoyable,” said Eric Fetchko, President of Dometic Marine Americas. “Once again, we have taken marine steering to the next level. You have my word that we will never stop innovating and solving industry problems.”

In terms of performance underway, ease of installation and seasonafter-season reliability, the new Optimus Electric Steering Actuator will provide substantial benefits to boat builder and skipper alike. With the present system, the signal from the Optimus electronic helm goes to the Pump Control Module, which activates an electro-hydraulic steering system. Even though it is “by-wire,” hydraulic fluid is still pumped through hoses and into the steering cylinders on the outboard(s) which act on the tiller arms of the outboards to move left or right.

With the new Optimus Electric Steering Actuator, the electronic helm signal goes directly to the actuator which instantly moves the outboard. The “brains” of the Pump Control Module, including ECM, rudder position circuit and CANbus communication, have been

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transplanted into the new Optimus Electric Steering Actuator itself.

Steering power is delivered by a proprietary high-torque high-efficiency brushless DC electric motor, designed and manufactured

by Dometic, and a patented compact roller-screw drive system, also a proprietary Dometic design. Both the motor and power train reside within the steering actuator.

In terms of steering performance, skippers will sense a marked improvement in handling. Steering response will be immediate, smooth and precise, thanks to this robust, industry-leading drive train that provides unparalleled performance and system rigidity when needed most.

Programmable steering settings, including adjustable speed-sensitive lockto-lock turns, adjustable speed sensitive wheel effort, and speed-sensitive rudder angle limits to ensure safe steering, continue to be available, now without the need for any extra components.

Installation of the new system is a snap, with just three CANbus connections plus power. Twin, triple and quad outboard installations will be set up similar to the present design, with Optimus Electric Steering Actuators controlling adjacent outboards via tie-bars. In addition, the new Electric Steering Actuator will interface with compatible autopilot systems in the same manner as the present Optimus systems. Dometic’s SeaWays Autopilot and SeaStation GPS Anchoring functionality are also built in.

The Dometic Optimus Electric Steering Actuator exceeds all applicable marine standards, including NMMA, ABYC, CE and SAE electrical and environmental requirements. The actuators are maintenance free, except for regular greasing of the steering ram via installed zerk fittings. Over 100,000 hours of rigorous testing during development assures safe and reliable performance under harsh salt and freshwater conditions, all in keeping with Dometic’s proven reputation for superior quality.

To learn more, visit seastarsolutions.com

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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is ry cy or, ed ed ve ry he de r. ng ill be ng ty

He’ll typically kick the morning off with redfish encounters in depths of 2 feet or less. As the sun grows stronger, he’ll probe docks and structure looking for summer flounder before finishing off with feisty seatrout in feeder creeks.

“I’m thinking this season will be a special one if we don’t get smacked by any major storms,” said Collins. “There’s tons of bait around already, and it’s been a long time since I’ve seen as many mullet as we have this year. Crabs and small menhaden are abundant, too. Plus we have tons of shrimp; everything loves shrimp.”

By Tom Schlichter Collins targets early morning reds around oyster bars, oyster reefs and oyster rocks in water that is generally hip-deep or less. He’ll work shoal areas and Seatrout: Dale Collins puts a fare even dig into the grass on White Oak Sound, White Oak River and the area on a pretty Oak River area sea trout. Photo courtesy of Do or Die surrounding Swansboro with a 7-foot, 6- to 10-pound class Star Seagis rod. His Charters, Swansboro, N.C. lure of choice for the reds is a Skitter Walk SW11 in a golden mullet pattern that always seems to bring surface thrills. Backing off the edges and working near docks and structure, he’ll switch to a ¾-ounce white Spro bucktail tipped with a 4-inch Berkley Gulp! pearl-white shrimp for the flatties.

“For the reds,” disclosed Collins, “I keep a second rod rigged with a Z-Man soft plastic or Gulp! Jerk Shad impaled on a weedless screw-style hook. If a redfish blows up on the topwater but misses, I immediately send the soft plastic his way. He’ll slam that as soon as it starts to sink.”

For flounder, Collins hops his bucktail about a foot at a time, but it’s vital you actually feel it strike bottom on the drop. “Most hits come as the lure falls, and if you don’t feel it hit bottom it’s probably in a fish’s mouth,” he said. “Strike immediately, because those flounder spit a lure out quickly once they realize it’s a fake.”

As for the specks, Collins recommends getting on them as soon as possible.

“You’ll find the biggest fish arrive first,” he said. Throw a Mirrolure MR 17 or ou’ve got to love fall’s promise here in North Carolina,” said Capt. Dale 18, or try my personal favorite: a Zoom Golden Bream on a 1/16-ounce jighead.

Collins, of Fish or Die Charters (www.fishordiecharters; 252-422- Man can that lure catch some fish! Just work it slow and allow time for it to get 4236) in Swansboro, North Carolina. “The water temperatures are down deep. If you think you are fishing slowly enough, slow down a little more.” starting to cool and there’s plenty of red drum, flounder and big seatrout in our bays and creeks. Indeed, it’s my favorite time of year to fish around here.” If you’d like to fish the Swansboro area on your own, Collins suggests Collins should know. He’s built a reputation putting fares on big fish in launching from Cedar Point Wildlife Ramp near Dudley’s Marina (https:// skinny water in this area west of Morehead City and separated from Pamlico www.dudleysmarinanc.com; 252-393-2204) in Swansboro. For overnight accommodations Best Western Plus (252-393-9015) is right near the launch.

Sound on the southern side of Cape Lookout.

SWANSBORO, NC: FALL ROCKS WITH REDS, FLOUNDER AND SEATROUT

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SIGHT CASTING TO LOUISIANA’S BIG BULL REDS ON THE FLY

Photo courtesy of Michael Booth Jr.

I

t’s no secret that the Louisiana coast is an inshore angler’s dream.

A seemingly endless tangle of interconnected waterways, with big salt lakes, canals, grass, oysters and mud flats make the bayous south of New Orleans the No. 1 destination in the world for redfish.

Places like Grand Isle, Cocodrie, Venice, Delacroix and Hopedale are the destinations for redfish anglers seeking out some of the best fishing on the planet. The region is filthy with reds, and targeting big bulls with a fly rod is the ultimate thrill.

Angler Michael Booth Jr. and his buddies, many who are local captains, have made a practice of sight fishing these monsters. Instead of working the grass to find individual bulls or pods of slotsized redfish, they move out deeper on the big lakes in search of

schools of big bulls, which usually hunt in the 3- to 4-foot depths 100 to 200 yards off the grass.

“The weather has to be good for a couple weeks beforehand for the water to be clean enough to see them,” said Booth “When we go out looking for schools of big fish, we start about 20 yards out and pole that line until we figure out where the reds are holding that day.

Then they’ll usually all be in that same area.”

On certain special days, when a strong northeast wind and a low tide suck the water out of the marsh around Hopedale, those 4-foot depths become 2 feet and spotting fish is easy.

“Those big bulls will all be belly crawling with their backs out of the water,” said Booth.

But normally, finding fish means looking for the telltale dark triangles of tails and fins or fish pushing water as they chase bait and root for crabs. Booth said a good pair of green-mirror glasses with amber lenses makes it easier to distinguish the shadows and colors of a big redfish in tannic-stained water.

Once you find them, tempting them to eat a fly is a matter of trial and error to find the fly and retrieve they want on a given day.

Booth prefers fishing on top, and a size 2 Surface Seducer Double Barrel popper is the hot bait at the moment. Booth likes purple, gold, chartreuse, black and combinations of those colors.

Sometimes, when the fish aren’t feeding as actively, Booth said he’s forced to fish something that sinks. A size 2 shrimp pattern with extra large dumbbell eyes becomes the bait of choice. Again, purple and chartreuse work well, as do more natural tan or olive patterns.

A 10-weight rod, floating line and a 50-40-30 leader with 12 to 18 inches of 16- to 20-pound tippet are in order.

Booth said he’s seen days that brought 10 fish over 20 pounds to the rail and others when a single 40-pound red was reason for rejoicing.

“Any day you’re able to catch a 20-plus-pound bull red on a fly is pretty awesome,” he said.

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ITEM 60388/69514 shown

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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM I NATIONAL 15 was At Harbor Freight Tools, the “Compare to” price means thatI the OCTOBER specified comparison, 2019 which is an item with the same or similar function,

*Original coupon only. No use on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase or without original receipt. Valid through 2/3/20.

hft_coastalangler_1019_M-REG163332.indd 1

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.

9/3/19 12:37 PM

10 CIGARS +HUMIDOR

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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

Field Dress For Success

The hunt for the perfect outdoorsman knife is over. There’s only one tool you need: the Whitetail™ Hunting Knife—now ONLY $49!

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Binoculars If you don’t feel like we What customers are saying -a $99 valuecut you a fair deal, send it with purchase of about Stauer knives...

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your

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Stauer

® 14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. WHK291-01

Burnsville, Minnesota 55337

www.stauer.com

Not shown actual size.

*Discount is only for customers who use the offer code versus the listed original Stauer.com price.

Rating of A+

• 5 ¼” 420HC stainless steel blade • Full-tang design with gut hook • Pakkawood handle with brass pins • Bonus heavy duty nylon sheath

Stauer… Afford the Extraordinary ®

1782-18B Coastal Angler.indd 1

12/19/18 3:50 PM