The Angler Video Magazine | January 2022 Edition

Cold Weather

REDS

@CAMTAMagazine

WATCH VIDEO

WINTER BASSIN’

WORLD RECORD CATCHES

PHOTO CREDIT: BRIAN STAUFFER VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 6

F R A N C H I S E

JANUARY 2022

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

52

Contents

VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 6

JANUARY 2022

Monster Bull Dolphin Fishing in Guatemala

4

Cracking the Cold Weather Code for Reds and Trout

6

The Misunderstood Strike Zone

10

IGFA Approves New World Records

12

By CAM Staff

By Capt. Tim Cutting

By Joey Monteleone & Bridgett Howard

By CAM Staff

Boat Review: Yamaha 210 FSH Dream Catching: The Finer Points of Fishing Afar

16

Product Spotlight: Frogg Toggs' FTX Armor Fishing Suit

34

19

Throw Them Some Meat This Winter

37

Angler Lands Record Red Hind

40

Follow the Signs, Catch the Fish

44

FWC Proposes to Slash Dolphin Limits in Half By CAM Staff

48

How Fish Smell

50

The Rainforest Islands: Alaska Fishing's Final Frontier By Christopher Batin

52

By CAM Staff

By Zach Harvey

Winter Striped Bass on 28 North Carolina's Lower Roanoke River By Frank Jones

28

By Joe DiPietro

By CAM Staff

By Capt. Michael Okruhlik

By John Saporito

6

2

Record Alaska Salmon Runs Expected for Summer By TAM Staff

56

Ruminations on Friends & Fishing

58

By Jim Parks

Bassmaster Classic Returns to Hartwell

61

Tips for Winter Wahoo

62

By TAM Staff

By Capt. Ryan Palmer

A True Bahamas Out 68 Island Adventure at Acklins Island By Greg Mendoza Gulf Descending 76 Devices Requirement Begins in January By CAM Staff

62

Fly Fishing

42

Rigging & Jigging

66

Life Is A Beach

72

By Tim Barefoot

By Richard L. Matteson

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Columns

By Capt. Conway Bowman

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E H T G N I K CRAC FOR REDS T U O R T D AN

By Capt. Tim Cutting

I

love winter fishing. I don’t know if it’s the solitude, the challenge of the elements, or maybe I am just a glutton for punishment.

While you may be faced with the occasional skunking this time of year, often, when you crack the code in cold weather, redfish and trout are schooled up and can be downright aggressive.

There are a few things I do differently in the winter that help me trigger bites and find fish. I am guilty of slow fishing or finesse fishing most of the year, but in winter if I think I am going too slow, I go slower. I want the bait to stay in the strike zone as long as possible. I use a combination of slow hops, drags and simple lift-and-drop presentations with my plastic bottom-hugging baits. There are times when I will lighten up my plastics to nearly weightless and go to one of my favorite retrieves, which is a couple sharp twitches and a pause. There are times when I will pause as long as 5 to 10 seconds. One of my favorite baits for this technique is the D.O.A. ¼-ounce shrimp. Allow time for the bait to sink all the way to the bottom. This may take up to 20 seconds in deeper water.

All baits sink at different rates depending on current, salinity, profile and weight, so take time to dial in the countdown process, and remember that process!

While I will throw soft plastics most of the time, I still love plugging in the winter. Over the years I have refined my baits to sinking twitch baits like MirrOlures, suspending baits such as

the Bomber Long A and a Rapala Countdown in a 9 or 11 size. While my retrieve never varies much on the Bomber, two twitches and

a pause, I work the MirrOlures and Rapalas a tad differently. Both the MirrOlures (TT and 52) and Rapalas are countdown lures. After counting down the MirrOlure, I usually impart a slow pull followed by one simple twitch. I will vary the length of the pull at times and the sharpness of the twitch.

I have found that slower is better. The Countdown Rapalas are a tad trickier, but I tend to get bigger fish on this bait. I usually mix it up with a slow swim, twitch, pause, swim, twitch repeat.

Depth is relative in different areas, but I have found trout and redfish in waters down to 30 feet. I generally fish in water 6 to 18 feet deep in the winter.

I look for isolated deep water such as smaller creeks, canals, industrial docks and deeper bends with debris.

I am looking for areas that stay slightly warmer due to protection from the wind or exposure to the sun. Many man-made structures of rip rap, concrete, metal, wood and PVC will often hold heat.

Along with remembering exactly what it was that triggered the bite, location and depth will be critical. More than likely, once you get bit you are going to find a lot more in the same exact spot. For a lot of anglers willing to brave the elements, slow down and cover water, the winter months will be very rewarding.

Capt. Tim Cutting is of Coastal Georgia Inshore Charters. Visit his website at fishthegeorgiacoast.com or call (912) 230-1814.

THE ANGLER VIDEO MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2022

7

SUZUKI DEVELOPS WORLD’S FIRST MICRO-PLASTICS COLLECTING SYSTEM FOR OUTBOARD MOTORS

Innovative Device Removes Micro-Plastics, Other Pollutants From Engine Cooling Water Before Returning to Ocean

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eading innovator Suzuki Marine has developed the world’s first micro-plastics collecting system designed to be installed on outboard motors. The device is designed for easy installation under the cowling of selected Suzuki outboard models 40 HP and up, and works by filtering water after it has passed through the engine’s cooling system and before it is returned to the ocean.

Because of its innovative design, the system does not impact the driving performance or cooling efficiency of the engine.

Tested extensively aboard Suzukipowered boats in Japan and proven to be highly effective, research has now been expanded into the U.S., as the Suzukipowered L’Attitude Lindsey—a unique water taxi powered by twin Suzuki DF140 outboards—has been testing Suzuki’s micro-plastics filters throughout Tampa Bay, Florida’s downtown waterfront since June 2021. This boat runs about 3,000 hours per year, making it an ideal platform to collect not only micro-plastic pollution around Tampa Bay, but also important test data Suzuki can use to refine and perfect this system in preparation for it’s eventual release to the boating public.

The filtering system has already demonstrated its ability to collect a wide variety of microparticle pollution, including urethane, nylon and wood chips, among other materials. Marine biologists and the scientific community have

long recognized the dangers these microscopic bits of pollution—known collectively as microplastics—pose to fish, marine mammals and

other aquatic life. It is worsening problem that doesn’t recognize national borders and is negatively impacting oceans around the planet. Combating this problem will require a cooperative effort by industry, the scientific community and outdoor enthusiasts around the world. Suzuki sees this new technology developed for its outboard motors as a positive first step in such a collaborative effort.

The micro-plastics collecting system is but one part of the company’s larger Clean Oceans Project initiative which focuses on reducing

plastic waste and its harmful effects on the marine environment. As part of this effort, Suzuki is now reducing the use of plastics in the packaging materials of its outboard motors and parts—changes that should reduce plastic waste from business activities by approximately 2.3 tons annually.

“Protecting the marine environment for future generations has always been important to Suzuki,” said George “Gus” Blakely, Vice President of Suzuki Marine.

“Whether by innovating new technology, reducing the use of plastics in our products, packaging and shipping, or putting on gloves and rolling up our sleeves to pick up trash off the beach, Suzuki Marine is committed to keeping our waters and shorelines clean and healthy. When it becomes available to the boating public, this new filtering system will allow our customers to join our effort, simply through the act of using their boats,” added Blakely.

Suzuki plans to make the micro-plastics filter available as an optional accessory for selected models beginning in early 2022, with plans to make it standard equipment in the future.

To learn more about this new micro-plastics collecting device for Suzuki outboard motors or the company’s complete line of clean-running 4-stroke outboards from 2.5 to 350 horsepower, visit www.suzukimarine.com or call (714) 996-7040.

HOOKED ON™ A CLEAN OCEAN

CLEANING OUR OCEANS FOR A BETTER

TOMORROW

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

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

YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

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

The Misunderstood

By Joey Monteleone & Bridgett Howard

C

ast after cast, and no fish.

Invariably anglers look at each other and say what they’re thinking, “No fish here, let’s move.” One of the most misunderstood aspects of bass fishing is the size of the strike zone. Natural influences play a large part in the positioning of bass and their range of movement to eat. There exists a popular misconception that bass will move a great distance to

PHOTOS BY NICK CARTER

“attack” a moving target.

Consider the lifestyle of bass and other gamefish. There is a high mortality rate for fry due to predation and, in some cases, cannibalization. Out of every thousand bass that hatch, only two make it to 2 pounds. Bass are always in survival mode. Return on investment is critical to all wild things. If a predator has to chase something a great distance to ingest it, it could be a

losing proposition. Simply stated, if the bass extracts less energy than it took to catch the food, the fish actually loses energy, not a good scenario.

What creates the size of the strike zone?

Essentially there are two determining factors: water color and temperature.

Because bass and many other species feed predominately by sight, water color plays a role in feeding frequency and efficiency. All species of bass possess a highly developed sense of sight. Clear water makes it easier to see food and also to detect flaws in an angler’s presentation. Stained or muddy water does the opposite. The odds for the angler increase under certain conditions

using certain baits.

Water temperature also plays a key role.

Water temperatures ranging from the mid 50s to the high 80s are relatively comfortable for the fish, allowing them to eat and digest at a faster pace. On the other side of the spectrum, cold or extreme heat slows them down. Add muddy water and a high current flow, and the game changes. Bass will “hunker down” (a southern technical term), and the strike zone can be drastically reduced. In these conditions, bass move slowly and will find a comfortable spot to stay put.

Take heart, though, a change in baits, tactics and retrieve will help you to boat a few bass even in tough conditions.

Lures that can be held in the zone for an extended period of time create the best chance of success. With assistance from the angler, suspending hard-plastic jerkbaits, crankbaits, jigs and spinners can all cure the smaller strike zone situation. Smaller lures and slower retrieves are highly desirable.

The more drastic the conditions, the slower the bait should move. Baits with rattles and bright colors offer increased appeal to the senses. Couple all these factors with casting accuracy to minimize the need for the fish to move, and you’re in business.

Learn to recognize the strike zone and what affects it and you are well on your way to your limit of fish and fun.

IGFA APPROVES NEW WORLD RECORDS

T

he International Game Fish Association (IGFA), headquartered in Dania Beach, Fla., is the worldwide authority on record fish. The organization maintains a massive database of catches for almost any species you can think of and in numerous different categories. Every few months, IGFA releases a handful of recently approved new records. Here are some of the most impressive fish approved by IGFA this fall.

WATCH

Carmody’s Southern Bluefin Tuna

On July 1, 2021, Carl Carmody was fishing out of Hick’s Bay, New Zealand, when he landed the fish of a lifetime. This 355-pound, 6-ounce southern bluefin tuna is the second largest ever caught, weighing just 14 pounds shy of the current IGFA All-Tackle World Record. Carl was fishing aboard the Doctors Orders captained by Blake Sheridan when this fish struck a trolled lure. The impressive tuna earned Carl the IGFA Men’s 130-lb. Line Class World Record for the species.

VIDEO

Triana’s Sockeye Salmon

Dennis Triana returned from an August trip to Alaska with a handful of records, including this 66-centimeter sockeye salmon that he landed on Aug. 14, 2021 to set the IGFA All-Tackle Length Record for the species. Dennis was fishing unguided on the Russian River in Alaska when the salmon struck a jig.

Sherbovich’s Arctic Char

On July 28, 2021, Ilya Sherbovich landed this beautiful 25-pound, 11-ounce Arctic char to set the IGFA Men’s 20-lb.

Tippet Class World Record. Ilya was fishing the remote Taymyr Peninsula in northern Russia when he landed this amazing fish.

The Taymyr Peninsula is located north of the Arctic circle, and is only accessible via helicopter. Ilya netted this colorful char after a seven-minute fight and released the fish after recording the proper documentation.

Williams’ Chinook Salmon

Bailey Williams was fishing with her husband on the Salmon River in Pulaski, New York on Sept. 12, 2021, when she landed this 12-pound, 12-ounce Chinook salmon. With this fish Bailey set the IGFA Women’s 2-kg (4-lb) Tippet Class World Record for the species.

This beautiful salmon took an egg pattern on an 8-weight and was landed after a brief fight.

CROCODILE BAY The Ultimate Fishing Experience C

rocodile Bay boasts the largest professional sport fishing fleet in Central America with in-house captains and mates able to cater to all skill levels. At the helm stands Diego Camacho, Director of Fishing and expert fisherman. Anglers will enjoy offshore, inshore, as well as the now all-new kayak and shore fishing excursions. Each is uniquely challenging and equally rewarding. The fleet of 24 and 25-foot center consoles Boston Whalers and 33 and 35-foot tower Strike are easily accessed from the 800-foot private pier.

Crocodile Bay offers world-class catch and release bill fishing in the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy going after sailfish, striped, blue and black marlin, dorado, tuna and wahoo. And when fishing in Costa Rica’s Golfo Dulce (Sweet Gulf) you will find roosterfish, cubera snapper, jack trevalle, bluefin trevally, sierra mackerel, tripletail, and grouper to be excellent throughout the year. Are you ready to strap in and reel in a yellowfin tuna that can reach up to 300 lbs? Do you think you have what it takes to beat the Roosterfish resort record at 106 lbs?

So what are you waiting for? Visit Crocodile Bay for an adventure of a lifetime and experience the incredible transformation to Crocodile Bay Marina and Botánika Osa Peninsula, Curio Collection by Hilton. Botánika will provide unparalleled services and amenities, including the clubhouse, a lagoon-shaped pool, several restaurants and bars, a fully equipped state-of-the-art fitness center, and nature trails right on property. With the Pacific Ocean in the front yard, and Corcovado National Park in the backyard, guests can participate in a wide array of land and water based ecoadventures. With the adjacent Crocodile Bay Marina, Botánika guests will continue to enjoy marine adventures, such as worldclass sport fishing, whale and dolphin watching, and snorkeling.

Just as Crocodile Bay Resort, Botánika is destined to become a world-class vacation destination and a new Costa Rican legacy.

JOIN US AT THE LARGEST BOAT & YACHTING EVENT IN THE WORLD / FEBRUARY 16-20, 2022 M I A M I B O AT S H O W . C O M

Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show Back for 2022

T

he Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show is gearing up for 2022 and the largest boat and yacht event in the world. The show returns to the Miami Beach Convention Center and four additional locations from Wednesday, Feb. 16 through Sunday, Feb. 20 over Presidents Day weekend for the premier boating extravaganza in South Florida.

Produced by Informa Markets and owned by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), the Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show will be the first production of South Florida’s preeminent winter boat shows after joining forces earlier this year and combining the Miami Yacht Show, SuperYacht Miami and the Miami International Boat Show. The 2022 Miami event is the first boat show to be integrated with the Discover Boating brand, which is the North American lifestyle brand for boating aimed at attracting the next generation of boaters and engaging current boaters.

“We are looking forward to delivering an unparalleled experience at the 2022 Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show,” said Andrew Doole, President of U.S. Boat Shows with Informa Markets, who produces the Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show. “With our return to the Miami

Beach Convention Center and alongside our partners at the National Marine Manufacturers Association, the 2022 boat show will be unlike any other winter boat show.”

Historically, the Miami International Boat Show, the Miami Yacht Show and SuperYacht Miami have attracted more than 100,000 visitors from 35 countries to South Florida while generating an estimated $1.34 billion for the state.

Bringing the events together offers numerous benefits for exhibitors, visitors and the greater boating community. The on-land portion of the event will take place at the newly reimagined Miami Beach Convention Center, while the featured in-water activities will be

offered at One Herald Plaza, Sea Isle Marina, Museum Park Marina, and IGY Yacht Haven Grande at Island Gardens.

The boat show will feature new elements such as the Boat Show Experience, which will be the ultimate boater’s destination, located outside the Miami Beach Convention Center. Guests will have access to the AquaZone presented by Nautical Ventures in addition to a collection of experiential boating lifestyle activations, live music entertainment and a marine accessory pavilion. Don’t miss the 2022 show!

For more information about the 2022 Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show, visit www.miamiboatshow.com.

THE ANGLER VIDEO MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2022

15

T

here’s something unmistakably cool about the iconic design of center console boats. They are the sports utility vehicle of the boating world.

Yamaha’s 210 FSH center console boats are a modern take on the classic center console design, focusing on greater versatility made possible by Yamaha’s patented jet-drive technology.

Unlike other center console brands with outboard motors that dominate the stern, the 210’s dual engines and driveline are housed in the hull underneath the captain’s leaning post, providing a true 360-degree experience perfect for fishing. And because no outboard motor lower units are protruding under the boat, the shallow draft can get you and out of places that other center console boats can’t.

These boats include all the features that fishing enthusiasts require and family features that are perfect for an entire day out on the water to include watersports, swimming, and lounging – all in the same boat and at a competitive price starting under $46,000.

The 210 FSH is available in two variations, the 210 FSH Deluxe and 210 FSH Sport.

The 210 FSH Deluxe comes with wiring for dual batteries, stainless steel rub-rail, head compartment curtain, a trolling motor mount, and premium seating/cushions. The 210 FSH Sport comes with Deluxe features and the addition of a custom T-top.

Both models come with Yamaha’s awardwinning TR-1™ High Output marine engines.

Located under the starboard bow seat

YAMAHA 210 FSH

is an insulated fish locker, and there is a dedicated locker for a full-size Danforth® anchor. There is more storage below the port bow seat, in the sole, and inside two large consoles.

In front of the helm console is more seating, and the console lifts to reveal an extra deep, large storage area that can also serve as a changing room or a head compartment.

The helm is thoughtfully designed with convenient access to all boat control switches, a locking glove box, and an open area to flush mount electronics such as a fish finder, a GPS unit, and other marine electronics.

The 210 FSH comes equipped with Yamaha’s 4.3” Connext Touchscreen Display, which is NMEA® compatible to send vital engine information to third-party electronics.

The transom area on the FSH Series is

unlike any other center console boat on the market. Since the engine and drive train are mounted in the hull, the entire back of the boat is open for unobstructed casting, towing, and enjoying activities at the stern.

Moreover, the boats’ lean post is convertible and can be flipped back toward the helm for added comfort and versatility.

The 210 FSH features Yamaha’s signature two-tier swim platform that sits low at the water’s edge. A retractable stern ladder makes reboarding after swimming a breeze.

The transom also includes a tow eye for watersports.

And like all Yamaha boats, the 210 FSH features Yamaha’s patented clean-out ports that allow for removing debris from the jet pump without having to get in the water or swim under the boat.

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JANUARY 2022

THE ANGLER VIDEO MAGAZINE

Dream WATCH

VIDEO

CATCHING

The Finer Points of Fishing Afar

By Zach Harvey

A

s we head into winter fishing show season, many start shopping for good charters to fish in the coming season. The following points should save you some headaches.

KNOW THYSELF The best thing to ensure a successful trip is to take a hard look at yourself and your crew—your experience, ages, skill levels and general disposition. Rough out your group’s hopes for the trip: Is the gear type of utmost import? Are you five old college friends for whom the trip’s fish tally comes after talking and laughing? Are you hoping to take home a load of fillets? There’s a possibility a port’s highliner—the guy who mohawks the fish every trip—could be the worst guy in town given your group’s criteria for success.

KNOW YOUR QUARRY, ASK QUESTIONS Understand the logistical realities, timing issues, and if there’s a viable fishery underway. One of the biggest problems fishermen encounter in destination fishing is pride prevents us from asking what we view as “googan” questions.

We end up trying to convince our would-be hosts that we know what we’re doing and forget to ask the questions that might make that so.

Ask the stupid question.

If you’ve been hoping to land X species of X size your entire life, flush out as much detail as possible about the fishery: Are there certain

windows of timing for the best fishing? Is tide stage a major factor? Every species and every region is full of caveats and idiosyncrasies.

Full-time chartermen must fish as many days as they can book. You can’t expect to get straight answers to all your timing questions. You can, however, zero in on an area’s better tackle shops to fill in blanks. The quest for reliable intel is something you’ll have to patchwork together.

POLICIES AND PARTING ADVICE As you zero in on a decision, there are other considerations.

Do not base boat choice on price first and foremost. Charter fishing is not cheap, but a well-executed trip with a top captain can make your dream trip a reality.

Be sure, however, to get a clear breakdown on the boat’s weather cancellation, deposit, rescheduling and trip-downgrade policies to be sure all in your crew have clear expectations. Ask detailed questions about the boat’s policies on fishing gear and whether you may target more than one species during a trip.

Wherever you fish, whoever takes you and whatever you target, consider: Any seasoned crew will know, inside five minutes, the real extent of your experience.

Everything works better if you check your ego at the dock.

THE ANGLER VIDEO MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2022

19

INNOVATION THAT RUNS DEEP

A

fter spending time indoors during the holidays with family and friends, it’s time to get outside and hit the water to catch some reds!

Redfish, also known as red drum, make for an exciting day out on the water as they put up a hard fight and can be found throughout Florida.

Rumor has it that redfish are elusive in the winter and, therefore, quite challenging to find. Well, that couldn’t be further from the truth, and redfish are there and hungry as ever. Winter fishing for redfish i¬s excellent because, like you, they don’t like the cooler weather and take a little longer getting active in the morning. This translates to you enjoying a hot cup of 20

JANUARY 2022

THE ANGLER VIDEO MAGAZINE

coffee and a warm meal before heading out. Before hitting the docks, make sure to grab the gear you can trust most.

The GILLZ Men’s PRO Series Storm Fleece is the perfect garment to keep you protected and ready to battle reds early in the morning. This spacer-fabric hoodie is engineered with air pockets embedded in the fabric to the perfect amount of insulation and temperature regulation while keeping everything lightweight. In other words, it provides you a critical advantage when it comes to an epic morning showdown with redfish.

Redfish like to stay deeper water during winter until the sun warms up the cooler surface water. The best place to find them is around deep docks and bridges early in the morning. It sounds counter-intuitive, but the deeper water is usually warmer after a cold winter night. Dead bait fishing is the best way to target deep redfish. They have an excellent sense of smell and can detect dead bait a long way down current. Dead bait fishing requires some patience as the fish are cold and can take a while to get moving. Large chunks of mullet, big pinfish, ladyfish, or even bluefish will do the trick. Hook these baits with a sliding egg sinker. You’ll have to figure out the appropriate weight based on the current and depth of the water.

When the sun heats up, you can shed the hoodie to reveal your allnew GILLZ Men’s Contender Long Sleeve UV “FS” shirt built with a 170 GSM, UPF 50+ Interlock Polyester fabric. This piece has 4-way stretch fabric providing you with the performance features you need to be successful on or off the water. Additionally, this style contains features like a new modified shoulder shaping providing an extended range of motion, making it easier to hoist in that husky bull redfish you caught.

Once the water is warmer and the fish are more active, you can start fishing for reds using live bait. You can use mud minnows or fiddler crabs, but a live shrimp under a split shot gets the best results. Cast the bait under the dock or as close as you can get to it.

Happy fishing; we will see out there!

Stay With Us For A Florida Fishing Vacation Of A Lifetime!

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• Waterfront Resort • Onsite trailer parking* • Water parking* • Adventure Center Dive Shop: Live bait, tackle, ice, area charts and fishing reports • You catch, we cook at West 82 Grill* *Included with your stay at Plantation on Crystal River with purchase of Fishing Package

Adventures Begin Here From the peace and tranquility of swimming alongside manatees to the rush of adrenaline of hooking an evasive gag grouper in the Gulf, there are many memories waiting for you in Crystal River.

Discover all the excitement, fun and lifelong memories we have to offer for your next adventure.

use the coupon code coastalangler for 10% off your next purchase

WHETHER SINGLE OR WIRED IN SERIES OR PARALLEL, OUR 100AH WILL POWER YOUR PASSION 24

JANUARY 2022

THE ANGLER VIDEO MAGAZINE

Your Next Outing on the Water will be More Fun with a StyleCraft Boats Pontoon

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ome boats are made only for speed, some only for fishing. StyleCraft Boats are made for fun. Their design is the versatile pontoon boat, often called a deck or platform boat.

But StyleCraft Boats pontoons are different.

They start with proprietary fiberglass hulls. No aluminum means no corrosion, no rust, no deterioration and no unsightly construction welds or ugly repairs for cracks and holes.

Designed and hydrodynamically built for durability and handling, StyleCraft hulls provide optimum planing and fuel efficiency, plus they simply look so great. Their ¾-inch thick deck is made from composite marine grade materials on 4-inch tall, 3/8-inch thick aluminum channel subfloor. No wood, so no rotting. For added resilience, the entire boat is surrounded by a proprietary, industrial strength composite rub rail for those times when docking proves to be a challenge.

But that’s just the nuts and bolts of how great StyleCraft Boats pontoons are. The Outfitter ZX tritoon footprint starts out as a trailerable 8 ½ feet wide and 20 foot long. For more floorspace and increased passenger capacity, they offer an 8 ½-feet-wide and 24-foot-long deck model, also trailerable. Now the fun part starts, completing the layout for individual tastes and desires.

StyleCraft Boats can be configured in basic fun models that are ideal for cruising, skiing, picnicking, camping and, of course, fishing. The fiberglass console with a wide pilot chair and ice chest gives the captain full control with optional outboard power starting at 90 horsepower. With StyleCraft Boats comes comfortable seating, ample storage, safety railing, railing covers and gates, pop-up head, and a choice of Bimini or T-Top. Another great use of StyleCraft Boats pontoon boats is by the boat rental segment, including the 28-foot FS28 Slide Boat with upper deck and twin water slides. The strong and durable design and construction of

StyleCraft Boats give the renter the confidence the boat will return to the dock in great shape, ready for the next outing. Marinas and boat rental outlets have been chartering our boats for years, even to novice boaters, and as a result enjoy a bigger return on their investment than with conventional aluminum pontoon boats.

StyleCraft Boats are made in the USA in Alachua, Fla., and are available only factory direct. Please follow StyleCraft Boats on Facebook and Instagram.

To learn more, call 1-855-StyleCraft or visit StyleCraft Boats.com

THE ANGLER VIDEO MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2022

25

2022 St. Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show Combines with Tampa to Create the Largest Boat Show on the Gulf Coast

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rawing thousands of boating enthusiasts and sailing lovers to the downtown waterfront, the 44th Annual St. Petersburg Power and Sailboat Show takes place January 20-23, 2022, at the Duke Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater – Yacht Basin and Albert Whitted Park (next to the Dali Museum). Tickets are on sale now and must be purchased online at https://www. stpeteboatshow.com/en/home.html.

“Now is the time to merge the Tampa and St. Pete boat shows and build the Gulf Coast’s largest boating event,” said Andrew Doole, President, US Boat Shows, Informa Markets.

“Combining these two leading Gulf Coast boat shows will streamline and enhance the attendee experience and deliver the most comprehensive display of boats and marine products in the region. The combined shows will mean a larger number of exhibitors and we anticipate record ticket sales,” Doole added.

Enhanced health and safety standards, known as AllSecure, have been adopted industry-wide and raise the bar on safe, hygienic, productive, and high-quality organized event experiences. As such, all Informa events, including the St. Petersburg Power and Sailboat Show, will be organized in accordance with the new AllSecure standards, as well as all official government and local authority guidance and regulations.

Highlights of the 44th Annual St. Petersburg Power and Sailboat Show are complimentary

sailboat rides, boating seminars and the popular Kids’ Fishing Clinic, presented by Hook the Future for children ages 4-16. All event participants, including exhibitors, visitors, crew, and staff will be required to follow the recommendations set forth in the AllSecure standards. The standards are being constantly reviewed and updated by Informa and will be made available on the website for all event stakeholders to review prior to the show date.

The St. Petersburg Power and Sailboat Show hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday, January 20-21; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Saturday, January 22 and Sunday, January 23rd, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are on sale now online at https://www.stpeteboatshow.com/ en/home.html. General Admission is $19 for adults. There will be one box office window in the credentials tent for attendees unable to buy tickets in advance. Veterans and active-duty military simply show proof of military service for a FREE ticket.

Follow the St. Petersburg Sailboat and Power Boat Show at facebook.com/StPeteBoatShow or Twitter @stpeteboatshow.

THE LARGEST BOAT SHOW ON THE GULF COAST JAN 20-23, 2022 STPETEBOATSHOW.COM 400 1ST STREET SOUTH AT MAHAFFEY THEATER BASIN NEXT TO THE DALI MUSEUM

By Frank Jones

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ver the years I’ve heard about fishing the “upper” Roanoke River in eastern North Carolina. The springtime spawning run of striped bass is famous, and I’ve had it on my bucket list of fishing trips for some time.

While attending a local fishing expo, I met Capt. Scooter Lilley of CWW Inshore Charters.

He told me something I had not previously known about the Roanoke.

“If you really want to experience this fishery, you need to fish the river in the winter months,” he said. “During the months of November through March, the striped bass will winter, and then begin their move up the river, and in the lower end it is not uncommon that my clients have 100-fish days.”

I wasn’t born yesterday, and can tell a good fish story myself, so I’m thinking “how come I haven’t heard of these 100-fish days before now?”

I mean, come on, that’s not the kind of thing you can keep a secret. Well, one day in the middle of February I was talking to Scooter on the phone and he invited me down for a day on the water. I don’t know if he meant it or not, but I said how about tomorrow and we made a date. Little did I know at the time, but I was in store for one of the most amazing fishing days of my life.

The next day I woke up at 4:45 a.m. to the loud crack of thunder and heavy rain and thought Mother Nature was going to put a stop to this fishing trip. A quick check of the radar and to my disappointment the storm was headed straight for my destination of Jamesville, N.C. Knowing I had a couple hours to drive and seeing how fast the storm was moving, I looked at my watch and said, “time to go fishing.” Sometimes in life things that don’t look too good at the start of the day turn out great, and this was going to be one

of those days. The rain had stopped and it was about 10:30 a.m. when we launched Scooter’s bass boat from the wildlife ramp on the west edge of Jamesville. After a short run up the river we arrived at our first stop.

The area we pulled up to looked just like any other spot on the river to me, but Capt. Scooter assured me this was not the case.

“River fishing is different from other types of fishing. You’re not looking for major struc-ture changes but just small changes in the river that cause minor changes in current and water color,” he said. “People can fish the Roanoke for years, and if they don’t know what to look for they go right past some of the most productive locations on the river. I’ve got 30 years experience fishing this river, and I learn a little something new each time I’m on the water.”

After tying on a 3/8-ounce jig head and 5-inch paddle tail grub, my first cast proved he knew what he was talking about. That first cast produced a fat 3-pound striper, and over the next couple hours the action was non-stop. We lost count of the number of fish we caught at close to 100 in a stretch of the river no longer than 300 yards.

“Not everyone can catch these fish,” said Scooter. “You have to cast to the right location and let the lure drift and sink with the current, that’s the trick. If you don’t put the lure in the right location, or get impatient and reel it in before it

gets to the right depth, you’ll catch a few fish, but not the numbers we’re catching.”

It’s hard for me to leave fish while they’re biting, but about 1:30 p.m. Capt. Scooter assured me that no fishing trip to this part of the river was complete without a lunch stop at the famous Cypress Grill in Jamesville. The Cypress Grill is located right on the river in Jamesville and has been in business for decades serving fried fish to locals and visiting fishermen. Fried herring is the specialty of the house this time of year, and I highly recommend it. I had the salted

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herring with a little vinegar, and it’s a real treat.

After this short break it was time to get back on the water, and though we had left the fish biting, Capt. Scooter wanted to show me some more of the river and try something a little different. After nearly three hours of almost constant action in the morning, I was game for the change even if it meant the fishing slowed down. Boy was I in for a surprise.

The lower end of the Roanoke has a number of small “backwater” feeder creeks, and we went looking for one to see if the fish had moved into them. The week before this trip, North Carolina had been hit with its second snowstorm of the season, but the week of my trip we were finally seeing our first string of warmer days. Even though the day had started out with rain and temperatures in the 40s, the afternoon had cleared up and warmed to the mid 60s with some sun-shine.

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“This time of year these creeks can warm up a couple of degrees in the afternoon, and that will be enough to send the stripers up into them looking to feed,” Scooter said. “When they do that, they are sometimes bigger fish. You don’t usually catch the numbers, but you make up for it in size.”

We pulled into one of these creeks and started using a different technique from the morning.

“These feeder creeks don’t have the current of the main river, so instead of letting the lure drift and sink we’re going to be fan casting across the creek and slow reeling the same lure as we used this morning,” Scooter informed me.

The first part of the creek didn’t produce a

fish, but roughly halfway up the creek we caught our first fish. From that point on the action was fast and furious. The biggest fish of the day, about 8 pounds, was caught in the morning. These fish averaged a solid 3½ to 4 pounds with a number 5-pound fish, and all were full of fight.

I had my doubts at the fishing show, but I’m now a believer in fishing the lower Roanoke for winter and early spring stripers. Capt. Scooter assured me that this days was special, we lost count of the fish somewhere north of 100, but an average February day in this part of the river will produce 25 to 50 fish. Now that’s a great day on the water for anyone!

Contact Scooter Lilley, of CWW Inshore Charters, at (252) 799-9536 or visit www.cwwcharters.com.

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FOR REEL

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

Perfectly Seasoned FishUpcountrySC.com

864-233-2690

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

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

Fish bite year-round in the lakes, rivers and streams of Upcountry South Carolina, which is located in the state’s northwest corner in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Devils Fork State Park in Salem is a great place to access Lake Jocassee, which holds state records for rainbow trout, brown trout, redeye bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass and yellow perch. Or try your luck at Lake Hartwell, at Lake Hartwell State Park in Fair Play and Sadlers Creek State Park in Anderson, three-time host of the Bassmaster Classic.

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

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

THE BEST PLACE TO DROP A FISHING LINE

hybrids and bass on Hartwell and Keowee. Chattooga River Fly Shop leads fly fishing trips on the Chattooga and Chauga rivers.

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

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

Prefer to captain your own boat?

There are several rental companies, including Tri-County Boat Rental, on Keowee, Jocassee, Hartwell and other lakes.

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

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

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

Visit UpcountrySC.com to learn more.

FROGG TOGGS’ FTX ARMOR FISHING SUIT: PRO-LEVEL PAIRING, PHENOMENAL PRICE

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hen frogg toggs wanted to gain actionable insights on what anglers are seeking in a high-performance fishing suit, it turned to the top talents in the business. And the new-breed results— the FTX Armor Jacket and Bib, designed in collaboration with their top-ranked pro staff— deliver a cold-weather technical suit with a rarely seen combination of style, performance and affordability.

Available in spring 2022, the FTX Armor suit was designed to fill a void in the fishing industry by delivering a high-performance, technical jacket/bib combo that is both affordable and stylish. It features a lightweight, athletic silhouette for extreme comfort, along with the ease of movement needed for a more aggressive fishing style.

“To fish well, you have to be comfortable out on the water—so we set out to deliver a suit that makes you both look good and feel good,” said Will Fowler, frogg toggs’ director of marketing.

“The FTX gets the job done and doesn’t break the bank.”

Bib deliver remarkable value. The suit’s exterior layer consists of a Teflon DWRcoated polyester that’s durable, breathable, lightweight and abrasion-resistant, all while retaining a supple feel. Its middle layer features DriPore Gen2 PLUS technology that takes water holdout and breathability to new extremes at 15,000 water holdout/10,000 MVTR. And the inner layer boasts a soft, smooth nylon taffeta liner that provides a light, cool wearing experience.

Among the many additional features of the FTX Armor jacket: • An adjustable, attached vented hood with E-Z push cord lock • Full front zip with storm flap • Fully taped and sealed seams • Neoprene cuffs • 360-degree super-cinch external hookand-loop wrist closures/adjustments • E-Z push waist cord lock • Zippered handwarmer pockets • D-ring attachment loop for accessories

Premium Features, Competitive Pricing By providing exceptional gear technology and highly affordable pricing ($149.99 each, $300 combined), the FTX Armor Jacket and

The FTX Armor Bib’s additional features include: • Athletic fit • Elastic H-back suspenders with low-profile buckles

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Horizontal chest pocket Full front zip D-rings for accessories Chest take-up straps Reinforced knee and seat area • Angled zippered drop pockets • Fully taped and sealed seams • Thigh-length zippered legs To purchase the FTX Armor Jacket and Bib and explore the full frogg toggs lineup, visit www.froggtoggs.com.

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WATCH

VIDEO

Throw Them Some Meat This Winter

By Joe DiPietro

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here’s a reason some anglers consider winter the season for fly-tying, not fishing. For me though, it’s the season I get to fish the most, while the rest of the year is spent doing more guiding and rowing. As it is, figuring out finnicky trout can be maddening. Add uncomfortable cold winter conditions to that equation, and it’s enough to send some anglers back to the tying bench.

The reasons why they are hard to fool go on and on. However, at the core, one of the biggest reasons trout skunk more anglers than other gamefish is merely because they don’t get impulsive about eating very often.

Give me a largemouth bass that is not even thinking about eating, and I can iritate it to the point where it’ll eat just to kill whatever I’m pestering it with. As a rule, trout in the same situation are more inclined to simply shut off rather than eat if bothered too much.

However, there are a few ways to make trout act impulsively and eat when they really aren’t interested in doing so.

I’m convinced trout have a calculator in their brain that does the math on each meal to determine whether the calories expended eating outweigh the calories brought in from the meal. This is why a trout feeding on nymphs rarely goes too far from where it’s holding to eat and simply slides side to side a foot or so, opening its mouth and letting the current push

each morself in its mouth.

Perhaps the most common way to garner the attention of a trout that has no interest in eating is to go big. Most anglers think of stripping big streamers when the notion of “going big” arises.

While chucking meat to the bank and stripping it back is great for covering water and will make a trout’s calorie calculator sound an alarm to eat, it’s not the only way to go big.

I’ve often said, if I could take one fly to the moon in order to catch trout where there is no water, let alone trout, it would be a rubber legs pattern such as Pat’s Rubber Legs, a girdle bug or some variant thereof.

A heavily-weighted stonefly pattern is to the tandem nymph rig what a big attractor dry pattern is to the dry-dropper, a sinker with a hook in it. I rarely give up on a good run or hole without trying a rubber-legged stonefly

pattern first. I will also usually experiment with the postion of the stonefly pattern in the rigging before accepting a zero. On some occasions the fish will only eat it if it’s the only fly offered, or if it’s the last fly in a tandem rig.

Another reason rubber-legged patterns are great impulse flies is because most stoneflies spend a relatively long time in the nymph stage of life. So you can count on the fact that there’s almost always a few of them crawling around on the bottom of any trout stream.

They’re also the biggest meal around most days.

Big rubber-legged stoneflies are a nymph fisherman’s meat. To most fish they are simply too big of a meal to pass up. and it is often worth a little bit more energy be sure it’s not missed. Most often, I dead-drift these flies, but I’ve had takes while stripping them in in preparation for my next cast. On occasion, I’ve actually sight-casted big rubber-legged stonefly patterns right on top of big trout that were chasing small baitfish and had them crush it with the same tenacity a bass removes something from its bed in the spring.

If you plan on being out in the coldest months hunting trout, don’t get caught without a few rubber legged stonefly patterns, ranging from size 6 to 12. If you do, I’d wager you’re passing up fish you could have otherwise caught.

Joe DiPietro is a Georgia-based trout guide. He can be contacted at fannintrout@gmail.com or through his website www.blueridgetroutfishing.com.

Cherokee County, situated in Western North Carolina encompasses the communities of Murphy, Andrews and Brasstown, where forested mountains seem to touch the sky, lakes sparkle like jewels in the sun and the air is crisp and clean. It is a quiet area located in the south western corner of North Carolina and has come to be known as the “Gateway to the Smoky Mountains.”

Visit Cherokee County

One can never get lost here visitcherokeecountync.com

WATCH

VIDEO

Angler Lands Record Red Hind

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North Carolina angler boated a new state record red hind off Cape Lookout in October, and it’s a record that’s likely to stand for a while. The fish weighed 7 pounds, 1.6 ounces and measured 21.5 inches in length with a 17.5-inch girth.

The new state record holder, Matthew Parr, of Wilmington, N.C., was fishing with Capt.

Charles Stewart Merritt of Salt Air Ventures.

They were dropping cut bait on 80-pound-test line, probably looking for big grouper.

The record breaker Parr hauled from the 40

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depths was less than 2-pounds off the IGFA all tackle world record, which stands at 9 pounds even and was caught by Eddie Vanmeter out of St. Marys, Ga. in July of 2019.

Previously, North Carolina did not list a state record red hind but created the category after Parr applied for the state record. The Division of Marine Fisheries creates new state record categories for fish that are exceptionally large for North Carolina.

Parr’s was exceptionally large for anywhere.

Although red hind are known to grow up to

THE ANGLER VIDEO MAGAZINE

23 inches and exceed 10 pounds in weight, anglers rarely encounter them that large.

The typical specimen brought over the rail measures about 16 inches.

Red hind is a quality table fish that is important in Caribbean commercial fisheries.

In the South Atlantic it is regulated within the three grouper aggregate recreational bag limit. It is also listed in the Shallow-Water Grouper Complex, which means there is a closure for the species from January through April.

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FLY FISHING 42

UNDERSTANDING TIDES: RISING AND FALLING TIDES EQUAL BETTER FISHING

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remember as a small boy fishing off the beach and noticing that once the water along the beach began to churn, I began catching fish. It was as if someone had turned on a switch causing the ocean waters to come alive with baitfish, birdlife and hook-ups. Of course, it was a few years later that I realized that the ocean turbulence and activity were the result of a changing tide.

Tides are most important to saltwater fly fishing success in both offshore and inshore waters, dictating where the fish will feed and when they will feed. Being familiar with the tide’s ebb and flow will most assuredly improve your chances for success when you’re saltwater fly fishing.

In the marshes, on the flats and on the beach, tides transport bait.

I find the rising tide the preferable time to fish. These tides bring in a flush of new water full of baitfish, shrimp and other forage for gamefish to feast on. The gamefish will herd

JANUARY 2022

the bait into tight groups.

Like the bad guys in a western flick laying in wait for the good guys, the gamefish lay in wait to ambush the bait as it moves into

nearshore areas, using the shoreline as a trap.

Falling tides that flush-out marshes, estuaries and flats can prove beneficial to the saltwater fly fisherman by providing him with fish waiting in the deep channels, holes

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and sand bars for a veritable seafood buffet to be swept toward them.

Offshore, tide created currents. Fishing offshore tides is a bit different than fishing the nearshore tides. Instead of the flooding and draining effect tides have on inland flats and marshes, offshore tides are more about the movement of water, better known as current. This water movement is generated by both tide and wind, so remember, the greater movement of water, the better the fishing. And how does this occur? As water moves over offshore structures, drop offs, rockpiles, and even floating kelp rafts, the currents form the bait into tight groups. This makes it easy for the gamefish game to fill his stomach.

Also keep in mind that the most tidal movement corresponds with the moon phase. The most extreme tides occur during new and full moons.

Therefore, fishing during these times is usually most productive. Keep in mind, however, that a full moon allows fish to feed all night. During these moon phases, fishing at dusk and dawn is often most productive.

Remember: the more tidal movement or current (water moving in, out or in a certain direction), the better the fishing!

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CATCH THE

FISH

By Capt. Michael Okruhlik

n early December, I set out in search for large trout in an area known to hold these magnificent fish from December through early April. Under typical conditions, they can be found warming themselves by hovering over the mud/grass bottom in knee-deep water, which is also where I prefer to target them.

However, on this particular day the temperature was at a near record high of 80 degrees! The trout had no reason to hang out in the hot mud, so I had to read the signs to catch the fish.

Before launching my kayak, I stood high on the bluff and scanned the area. This shore runs north to south, and there was a slight south to southeast breeze.

I didn’t see any slicks to alert me to feeding fish, nor did I see busting bait. I didn’t even see any lazily flipping mullet. What I did see were several pelicans drifting on the water several hundred yards out and two kayakers to the north. There were three separate groups of pelicans, and they were not near each other.

I launched the kayak and headed east, or straight out. I made a few cast in the shallow water, but the vegetation was too abundant to properly work my lure, and I didn’t see any bait. With the bowmount trolling motor, I was able to stand and look for visible signs of life while slowly moving forward.

The water in this area was crystal clear, and if fish were present, they would be easy to locate.

When I reached water with a little less grass, I decided to make short drifts and try my luck. Once a drift didn’t produce, I would head east again until I reached new water with a little more depth, and drift again. The wind would push me to the northwest and somewhat back toward the shore. I also noticed the other kayakers were moving around a lot. With that observation and the fact that I hadn’t had a bite, I concluded they were not catching either, and the fish were not shallow.

strike. After some tail-walking, I landed a nice 5-pound speckled trout. Not bad for the first fish of the day!

I had to depart from my pregame plan and follow the signs to the fish. By following that pattern, I was fortunate enough to play catch and release with specks and reds the remainder of the day.

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

My next move was to head deeper toward the pelicans. As I mentioned earlier, there were three groups of them, and the one thing they had in common was their distance from the shore. I headed straight east until I was inline with them, but up-wind. Once I reached this area, I noticed baitfish in the water. They were not being chased, but they were present. The water was still very clear, and it was about 3 to 4 feet deep with a mix of grass and potholes.

I began launching my 4-inch paddletail toward the potholes. Utilizing a steady retrieve and keeping my lure about midway in the water column, I received a vicious THE ANGLER VIDEO MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2022

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Llebroc Builds Better Boat Seats

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lebroc Industries began business in 1981 as a medium to high-end seat manufacturing company. During the 80s they evolved into a front-line manufacturer of a diverse group of automotive products for pickups, Suburbans and SUVs. But, in 1997 Llebroc switched primary focus to marine seating. Their first customers were Champion and Skeeter, both manufacturers of bass boats.

Since then, the company rapidly expanded their scope of operations to include seating for boats and ships of every size and description.To accomplish this in such a short span of time, they exercised extensive experience in automotive seating, and now, just 24 years later, Llebroc is creating the most innovative concepts and designs in seating for the marine industry.

Their Series 1 line, for use in an enclosed helm with limited exposure to the weather, currently features eight models with standard features that include: power coasted 1-inch square tube steel; molded foam seat cushions, armrests and headrests; Modern Allante vinyl upholstery; and a 24-month warranty.

The Series 2 line for both indoor and outdoor use currently numbers 14 models with an array of standard features that include all-aluminum construction; UV texture powder coating; UltraLeather material (standard); dual positive lock seat-back adjusters; multi-position arms; Llebroc’s AquaFlex Mitigating System, which provides a level of compact and safety previously unavailable in marine seating; and a three-year warranty.

All Llebroc seats offer free shipping in the continental United States.

Llebroc also produces all-weather seating (11 models), bass boat seating (7 models), seat accessories and all the necessary hardware required for proper installation and utilization. Simply stated, Llebroc creates the highest quality marine seating that can be found on today’s market. It begins with initial concept drawings and proceeds on through each stage of production. In addition, every effort is enhanced by dedication to superior customer service. Each Helm Chair features rugged durability, extraordinary comfort, functional design, an impressive list of standard features and, perhaps best of all, an affordable price.

For information about Llebroc products and services, visit www.llebroc.com or call Toll Free: 800-284-5771 • Fax: 817-831-3623.

FWC PROPOSES TO SLASH DOLPHIN LIMITS IN HALF

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he Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is looking at slashing the recreational dolphin limit in half, from 60 to 30 fish per vessel and from 10 to 5 fish per person in Florida state waters, citing a decrease in number and size of fish caught in recent years off South Florida and the Florida Keys.

At its meeting in December, FWC reviewed a draft proposal that would amend the regulations in state waters. The call for action reportedly came from southeast Florida and Keys charter captains, and it follows pending regulations changes approved by the federal South Atlantic Fishery Management Council (SAFMC) in June. The SAFMC ruling reduced the dolphin recreational limit from 60 to 54 fish per vessel for Atlantic federal waters along the entire east coast of the United States. The ruling is pending approval by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce.

FWC strongly advocated for larger reductions in federal waters as a precautionary measure. That push was blocked by North Carolina representatives, who would only support the smaller reduction. Part of FWC’s interest for proactive management is increased international engagement concerning the highly migratory species. Dolphin off the east coast of the U.S. are part of the Atlantic-Caribbean stock, which extends from New England to the Caribbean coast of South America. The status of the stock is currently unknown, according to FWC’s draft proposal, and a traditional stock assessment is unlikely due to unknowns within the fishery, which include international harvest and the absence of fishery-independent monitoring.

Warming surface temperatures in the Atlantic are also of concern to FWC because of a well-documented preference of the species for a temperature range between 66 and 84 degrees.

Catch-rate data indicates a tight link to water temperature, and those rates peak at 75 degrees.

“Because of this temperature preference, warming ocean waters and other environmental changes could contribute to shifts in dolphin distribution and influence migration routes,” reads the proposal. “Reports of more frequent encounters with dolphin in the northeastern U.S. and a growing directed recreational fishery 48

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there illustrate the northward distribution shift for this species.

“Similarly, fewer encounters with dolphin in SE Florida and the Keys could be linked to warming sea surface temperatures. Anecdotal reports from SE Florida and the Keys also indicate a change in timing of arrival of large dolphin, which may indicate changes in movement patterns as water temperature increases.”

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Dolphin harvest off the east coast of Florida has fallen precipitously since 2015, according to FWC’s data. In that same data, approximately 90 percent of the harvest in the last 10 years came from federal waters.

A final public hearing for the proposed rule would be held at FWC’s March 2022 meeting.

For more information, see myfwc.com.

JAW Delivers Innovative and Proven Offshore Trolling Lures

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AW Lures, a Miami-based lure maker, has gone nationwide with its line of offshore trolling lures. Designed and proven to put fish in the box, these innovative, yet simple, lures were tested and tuned in waters off the Florida Keys. Since 2014, JAW has been proving itself in “The Fishing Capital of the World.” Now the company is expanding with explosive growth.

“Our go-to lures for Dolphin and Blackfin Tuna,” said happy angler Corey Gawlas. “We almost always get two Tuna at a time.”

JAW Lures offshore trolling lures are the original and only offshore trolling lures in the world that feature two independent rigged skirts that can catch fish simultaneously and/ or separately. One skirt chasing another gives the appearance of frenzied bait, which naturally triggers the predatory instincts of most all pelagic.

JAW Lures rigs each lure individually by hand and constructs them only with Mustad 3407 SS-DT O’Shaughnessy hooks and AWF High-Seas leader material.

“JAW Lures should be in everyone’s offshore tackle box,” said Steve Martin of FishRazr.

“Adding these high-quality products to your trolling spread will put more fish in the cooler.”

Since the company’s expansion in the spring of 2021, anglers from Texas to New England, and over on the Pacific Coast of California are

discovering the hassle-free effectiveness of trolling with JAW Lures. They have proven deadly for Mahi-Mahi, Tuna, Wahoo, Marlin, Sailfish, Kingfish, Mackerel, and more.

Try working JAW’s offshore trolling lures into your spread. There’s a pretty good chance they’ll become the most productive lures.

For more information, visit jawlures.com.

HOW FISH

By John Saporito

SMELL WATCH

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lthough the nostrils of humans and other terrestrial animals play an important part in respiration, in fish they are devoted completely to scent perception. Further, most fish species have two sets of nostrils—one used strictly for water intake, and the other solely for water expulsion.

This setup gives fish the capacity to analyze a continuous influx of water, which is examined by the fish’s olfactory receptors before being ejected to make room for more water.

Fish are always pulling water into their nostrils for the purposes of extracting scent, employing a variety of techniques to accomplish this. At rest, a fish can rely on the tiny cells within its nostrils to brush water inside; the fish also draws water into its nostrils each time it pumps its gills to breathe.

When a fish is swimming, water is forced

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into its nostrils as it moves forward. Finally, while facing into a current, water is constantly flowing into the nostrils, granting the fish access to an endless stream of scent dispersal without it actually having to move. This last method is no different than a dog sticking its head out a car window. The headlong rush of air, carrying with it the aromatic vestiges of the world, allows the dog to pick up a tremendous assortment of scents without moving so much as an inch.

Sharks are widely touted for their sense of smell. They are purportedly able to sniff out a drop of blood in an Olympic swimming pool or other large-volume basin. What gets no fanfare, however, is that bony fish also have a tremendous sense of smell. They live their entire lives in a liquid medium and are as good at detecting dissolved chemicals as the best noses of the continents are at picking up scents on land. For some, the survival of their species is predicated on a superb sense

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of smell; many are compelled to migrate hundreds or thousands of miles to spawn guided by nothing more than minute traces of dissolved scents. Never underestimate the nose of a fish.

The senses of smell and taste are intimately connected across the animal kingdom, and fish are no exception. Fish have taste buds located internally on their tongue and mouth. They also have taste buds located externally on their lips and face. This means a fish can taste an object (like the bait you left sitting in the sun all day) without ever having it in its mouth.

Fish frequently use their muzzle this way to test potential food items. You never know, the faintest “bump” on the end of your line might just be the fish of your dreams, poking at your bait to see if it is fit for consumption.

John Saporito is a lifelong fisherman, writer and student of the seas.Visit him online at johnsaporito.com

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By Christopher Batin

PHOTO BY CHRIS BATIN

The

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nlike the big-name destinations in sportfishing, Alaska’s Rainforest Islands often draw a question mark from anglers who generally don’t know where or what type of fishing such a place offers. I had first fished these islands, located in southeast Alaska, in the early 1980s, while researching the first edition of my book, “Fishing Alaska on Dollars a Day.” The area was remote, but like most anglers, I found great fishing, but never returned because ample, remote fishing existed elsewhere.

It is a decision I have since regretted. It’s easy to understand why.

Excellent, remote fishing is becoming harder to find in many popular fly-out fisheries of the 49th State, yet the fishing pressure in this region of southeast Alaska has remained minimal over the years. For many anglers, myself included, fishing away from the crowds is of greater importance than catching lots of fish. When you can have both, it’s nirvana. These islands offer tons of fish in remote waters with few anglers.

For two weeks, I planned to rediscover the coastal waters of these islands, using the cities of Petersburg and Wrangell as “base camps.” Perhaps I would again find the remote Alaska fishing I enjoyed in the 70s.

The tourists who fly to Alaska each year from Seattle are usually oblivious to Wrangell and Petersburg as they zip overhead. Petersburg and Wrangell have 2,900 and 2,400 residents, respectively.

Both cities have survived economic boom-and-bust cycles, the latest being a timber industry downturn in Wrangell. Both cities are now poised to be the gateways of what I predict will be a sportfishing Gold Rush for this area. As a bonus, adventure tourism and sightseeing await non-fishing families or grandparents who want to tag along.

During my exploration, I fished waters rich in halibut and salmon, with no other anglers in sight.

Even after sampling the first day’s fishing, I was still skeptical.

“Why don’t more anglers know about this place?” I asked then Petersburg tourism

director Liz Cabrera. My question oozed with incredulity.

“Most visitors to Alaska have yet to discover the rainforest Islands,” she said. “Anglers fly farther north to places they know, where they think the fishing is better. Petersburg is only 700 air miles from Seattle, so no long three-hourplus flights to Anchorage and beyond. It’s one of southeast Alaska’s best-kept fishing secrets.

We have many opportunities for do-it-yourself anglers who want to rent a car and enjoy superb salmon and trout fishing at Falls Creek and Ohmer Creek. For the fly angler, there are ample opportunities for fly fishing for king salmon at Blind River Slough on the road system to remote salmon, steelhead and trout streams that don’t receive fishing pressure.”

Liz’s words rang true. Here’s what I discovered.

On the road system near Crystal Lake Hatchery, I observed two anglers fishing, about a quarter mile from each other, and they were hooking salmon on nearly every cast. Within a week, I saw a 40 to 1 ratio of eagles and bears fishing to anglers.

Guided opportunities offer great fishing for the price. Petersburg Sportfishing is a small lodge overlooking the coastal islands. They fish Frederick Sound and Sumner Straits, with most hotspots within 30 minutes to an hour from the lodge.

On my trip, halibut hookups kept me busy the entire day. I fished halibut jigs and lures in 180-feet or less of water in protected coves from a comfortable boat. I hooked two large halibut that shook off, but I vowed to return for a rematch.

After Petersburg, I didn’t think the fishing could get better. I took a water taxi over to Wrangell, where Wrangell tourism’s Carol Rushmore provided further evidence of the sportfishing opportunities.

“We receive a limited number of anglers each year compared to other areas,” she said, “which makes our sportfishing remarkably attractive, one of the jewels of this part of Alaska.”

The next day, I hired a guide to troll miles of remote shoreline. Amazingly, I didn’t observe another charter boat the entire day. We enjoyed good silver salmon fishing, with two kings hammering my Berkley PowerBait jigs fished on light tackle. The area also offers a wide selection of freshwater and intertidal fishing for salmon, cutthroat trout and char.

I regrouped for the night at the Stikine River Inn, had a fabulous meal, and met Dan Roope of Southeast Alaska Flyfishing Adventures for a week-long trip on the Stikine River. I was fishing with friends from the east coast who previously fished with Roope. It’s no surprise why this group returned.

Here’s what I discovered.

The mainland’s Stikine-LeConte Wilderness Area offers freshwater fishing and the wildlife opportunities of a Denali National Park, but without the crowds. In essence, our small fishing group had the nearly 448,841-acre wilderness to ourselves. We observed two riverboats belonging to local residents, and observed no other anglers sharing the watershed, let alone the same stretch of river. The U.S. Forest Service restricts permits and guides in this region, offering the best of wilderness Alaska with limited access via motorized vehicles.

Roope arranged for various fishing adventures, transporting us to fish Stikine tributaries before returning us to his remote camp at day’s end. We observed bears, moose and countless eagles. A wolf came out of the brush and watched us fish for salmon. We soaked fish-fighting muscles in a wilderness hot springs, had dungeness crab for dinner one night, and enjoyed the luxury of a cabin and bunks. The 70-year-old anglers in our group as well as younger family members enjoyed roughing it in style.

We saw no sign of human presence as we caught chum and pink salmon, tons of Dolly Varden and cutthroat trout. On occasion, a 7-weight fly rod would double over on a hookset. Hiding with the in-migrating chums were 30- to 40-pound king salmon, and these kings would oftentimes dart out and with seething aggression, grab a fly. We’d have to quickly release the fish, as actively pursuing king salmon in these freshwater areas is not permitted. Nevertheless, the occasional and accidental hookup gave an unexpected thrill.

Roope pointed out that these waters also offered prime silver salmon and steelhead fisheries at other times of the year.

I left Alaska’s Rainforest Islands with a vow to return each year to rediscover and enjoy these marvelous fisheries, away from the crowds.

Enjoy the magic of these Alaska Rainforest Islands fisheries and see for yourself.

Chris Batin is editor and publisher of The Alaska Angler and author of numerous books on Alaska fishing including “Fishing Alaska on Dollars a Day,” available on Amazon.

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PHOTO COURTESY NOAA FISHERIES

Record Alaska Salmon Runs Expected for Summer

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f you’ve dreamed of a bucket-list trip to fish the world’s largest sockeye salmon runs, now is the time to book passage.

According to the Anchorage Daily News, last summer’s record-breaking Bristol Bay sockeye run is forecasted to be eclipsed in the summer of 2022, when more than 70-million sockeye return to the Bay for the first time in recorded history.

Biologists with both the University of Washington and the Alaska Department of Game and Fish are seeing similar predictions from their models. The University of Washington forecast predicts 71.9 million sockeye salmon will flood Bristol Bay in June.

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That’s a 60 percent increase over the 20-year average of 44.9 million fish.

Bristol Bay is the largest commercial sockeye fishery in the world, and the commercial fleet must be looking forward to easy pickings.

Recreational outfits both in the bay and up the river systems that feed Bristol Bay must be booking up quickly. Sockeye do not grow as large as the massive king salmon, which run up the rivers from May through July, but they reach weights in the 15-pound range and are some of the best tasting fish on the planet.

The spectacle can be as good as the fishing when Bristol Bay feeders like the Kvichak and

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WATCH

VIDEO

Nushagak rivers are loaded with spawningrun salmon in June, July and early August.

When tens of thousands of fish per hour are counted pushing up the river, individual daily recreational limits fill quickly, and the only thing left to do is fish for grayling or huge rainbow trout while watching the eagles and bears catch their fill.

For more information, visit www.adfg.alaska.gov.

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

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

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

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

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

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Friends&Fishing

By Jim Parks

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here are a multitude of pleasures and benefits to fishing. The beauty of the environment, the challenge, the relaxation, the simple joy of being outside, the fish caught and the big ones that got away are all among the reasons we fish. Intertwined are the relationships created during outings.

Like many others, there are times when I would rather be on the water alone. One particular period of my life, I was working full time while going to night school working on my master’s degree. I had no time. Recognizing this, my wife all but demanded I go fishing. Entering the creek that morning, I was mentally exhausted. I perhaps fished 30 minutes before I wound up lying on a rock with the sun in my face.

The sound of the creek and my feet in the cool water washed away a lot of stress. At other times, I’ve found the solitude allows me to commune amidst the creation with its creator. After all, even Jesus knew the merits of hanging out with fishermen.

To quote Norman MacLean in A River Runs Through It, “And we were left to assume, as my younger brother Paul and I did… that all first-class fishermen on the Sea of Galilee were fly-fishermen... and that John, the favorite, was a dry fly-fisherman.”

Over the decades, I’ve been blessed to

meet hundreds of like-minded sportsmen.

Some, I’d rather forget! However, looking back over four-plus decades, I cannot help but reminisce over what fishing friendships have meant.

If you were fortunate to begin fishing young, you had at least one mentor. If you had a father or grandfather who took you on early fishing trips, hopefully you realize how blessed you were and will joyfully pass that blessing to the next generation.

Having no fishermen in my family tree, I adapted. Like-minded friends of my own age, aka the “Three Amigos,” myself, Keith and Steve, as well as their fathers and grandfathers, helped me along the way.

Though my father didn’t fish, he worked in a textile mill alongside more than a few fishermen with whom I came into contact. Among them were the late Don Kirk, author of several books on fly fishing, and the late, great fly tyer Kirk Jenkins.

To this day, the memory is burned in my mind of my father’s co-worker Charlie Murrell tying flies with me while camped on Forney Creek in the Smoky Mountains.

I was 14 years old.

Along the way, they and others taught me wading, casting and reading water, always instilling an interest and knowledge of the history of and respect for the locations

where I trod as a young fisherman. Growing older meant adulthood; college, career and marriage entered the scene. Still, at least one of the Three Amigos besides myself has kept fishing, and we still get together when life permits.

As we grow older and hopefully better in our pursuit, we’re sometimes blessed to invest in the future of our sport by sharing with the next generation. We instill in them an appreciation for the beauty and opportunity of wading in the crystal clear streams while sharing the history passed down to us.

Those opportunities make us better fishermen. In teaching, we are forced to consider the intricate, basic skills of the sport, which over time can become blurred by repetition. As my mentors did with me, I am careful to not “over-coach.”

This allows the student to make and learn from their mistakes. How awesome to be part of their first catch and to share in that accomplishment.

If we’re lucky, at some point we are blessed to come into contact with equally experienced fishermen with whom we just click. The best fishing buddies possess a similar interest in locales and styles, but are different enough that we still learn from one another. The best fishing buddies

become those who can finish your sentence, agree on the best places to fish, offer insight we didn’t consider and share learned tidbits, making both that much better. An additional bonus are those friends who are willing to take those crazy adventures such as night trips, remote bushwhacking treks and just downright crazy ideas for which they’ll catch it from their spouse when they eventually return home, well past curfew.

I remember as kids how we were competitive. We even had the unofficial “Virgil Ward Award” for whoever landed the largest fish that day. Over time, a point is reached when you get just as much joy in watching a friend ply a hole for that big ol’ brown. Sometimes it’s a tag-team approach, with a spotter directing casts to a trophy fish. We realize as much excitement in our friend’s success as if it were our own, if not more!

Lately, I’ve been stepping back… just a little… to give my buddy the first crack at a good run. Watching an artist at work, regardless of the canvas, is a joy. When that person is using all the combined skills of a stealthy approach, with the fly you both agree is best, making that cast in just the right spot and setting that hook, it’s like watching yourself from a distance.

In that moment, you are just as elated to share and witness the moment. That moment is when you realize having a fishing buddy is priceless.

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WATCH

VIDEO

BASSMASTER CLASSIC T

RETURNS TO HARTWELL

he world’s most prestigious professional bass tournament is returning to the site of some of the best moments in the sport’s famed history.

The 2022 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk will be held at Lake Hartwell March 4-6. It is the fourth time the crowds and pageantry of the Classic have descended on Upstate South Carolina.

Takeoffs will be conducted from Green Pond Landing & Event Center, while daily weigh-ins will be held at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena. The annual Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo will take place at the Greenville Convention Center, both of which are in nearby Greenville.

B.A.S.S. CEO Bruce Akin said the organization is excited to once again visit a venue that has become the gold standard for professional bass fishing events.

“Everything about Lake Hartwell and the city of Greenville make them the perfect setting for the Super Bowl of Professional Bass Fishing,” Akin said. “The Bassmaster Classic

is not only a chance for the best anglers in the world to showcase their abilities, it’s an annual celebration of the sport itself.

“Lake Hartwell provides the perfect site for amazing competition, and the city of Greenville provides the hotels, restaurants and other facilities you need for an event the size of the Classic.”

Hartwell is a 56,000-acre man-made reservoir situated between Georgia and South Carolina and encompassing portions of the Savannah, Tugaloo and Seneca rivers.

It features a vast array of habitat and a good population of both largemouth and spotted bass that are likely to be in the prespawn phase when the Classic competitors arrive.

“We are very excited for the opportunity to host the Bassmaster Classic once again on Lake Hartwell,” said Neil Paul, Executive Director of Visit Anderson. “The leadership of Anderson County has made a significant commitment to Green Pond Landing and the marketing efforts of Lake Hartwell, and we expect another record-breaking event with our teammates from Greenville.

“Hosting our fourth Bassmaster Classic on Lake Hartwell is significant to our community because no other fishery will have hosted more Bassmaster Classic events.

Having hosted this great event in the past, we can speak first hand to the significant economic impact it will have on the upstate of South Carolina and the impact of residual tourism that will be felt in Anderson County for years to come.”

The 2022 Classic will feature 55 qualifiers with berths earned through the Elite Series, the Opens, the TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation circuit, the Carhartt Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops and the Bassmaster Team Championship, plus the defending Bassmaster Classic champion and winner of the final Elite Series event of the 2021 season. They will compete in the noentry-fee event for their share of a whopping $1 million purse, with the champion earning $300,000.

For more information, visit www.bassmaster.com.

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TIPS FOR

By Capt. Ryan Palmer

W

ahoo are some of the fastest fish in the ocean.

Built for speed with large tails and torpedo shaped bodies, they can accelerate rapidly and turn on a dime. Wahoo can be solitary fish or found in large schools, depending on conditions, time of year and moon phases. Known for their excellent table fare and awesome fighting ability, anglers travel to South Florida and The Bahamas from all over the world to target them.

They have razor sharp teeth and their jaws are hinged like scissors, so landing one on mono is always an exhilarating feat. They can be caught year round, but during the winter months they are found in far better numbers and sizes, especially around the new and full moons. There are several ways to catch them, including high-speed trolling, planer fishing, vertical jigging and live bait.

High-speed trolling for wahoo could well be the most exciting method to catch them. There’s nothing like hearing the clicker of an 80 wide reel scream while you’re doing 17 knots. In some cases, you will have multiple hook ups with multiple drags going off. Talk about heart racing!

I’ll go over my normal high-speed spread, but keep in mind everyone has their favorite way of doing things. I run a three-line spread. I fish two electric reels and a 50W Shimano Talica. My first electric is set at 80 feet from the boat with a 48-ounce cable-rigged cigar lead. To that I have 25 feet of 400-pound mono shock

leader, which is then connected to my lure. The next electric is set at 150 feet from the boat with a 32-ounce cigar lead and the same shock leader.

Last is my shotgun Talica with a 24-ounce cigar lead and the same shock leader.

I have about 25 different lures from different manufacturers in many colors, shapes and sizes.

All of my lures are rigged on 480-pound cable with either single or double hook sets. I start my spread with an assortment of colors. If I get more than one bite on a particular color, I will change the others to that or similar colors.

High speed trolling is done in both South Florida and the Bahamas. I used to think that it was pointless in South Florida, but over the last few years I have been more successful catching them, and the fish I’ve been catching are better sized fish than the wahoo I’ve caught while planer fishing. On a trip just after a winter full moon, we caught a double header off Pompano Beach. Each fish was in the 40-pound range.

When high speed trolling, the optimum speed is between 15 and 20 knots, and we fish a zigzag pattern between 120 and 300 feet of water.

There are a couple reasons for the zigzag. One is to mimic baitfish coming in or going out during tidal changes, and the other is that during your turns your baits will slow down and fall slightly before accelerating again. This is when you get most of your bites. Keeping an eye on your chart plotter is key, because you can generally mark the schools in the upper portion of the water

column.

High speed trolling is great if you want to specifically target wahoo, as there are only a few species that eat at that kind of speed.

Planer fishing is just as fun and doesn’t burn nearly as much fuel. I like to run two planers consisting of a #4 and a #8 planer with either a drone spoon or a bonita strip behind a Sea Witch. Colors, sizes and shapes all vary, but once I find what color they like I switch them over. The drone spoon is a time-tested and proven method. The flash and vibration of the spoon cutting through the water gets their attention. I prefer 3.5-inch blue drone spoon behind a #8 Old Salty planer. I run about 60 to 100 feet of 60-pound mono between my planer and bait. While pulling planers down deep, I also pull a couple surface baits. Anything from a bonita strip behind a chugger-style lure to a rigged ballyhoo on wire behind an Islander will work. If you have outriggers, you can spread two baits wide and run a shotgun with a cigarweighted rigged ballyhoo. I planer fish the same areas as I high speed, but my speeds will be much slower at 6 to 11 knots. Lots of wahoo tournaments have been won fishing at slower trolling speeds, so don’t rule out a jumbo just

because you’re not high-speeding.

Live baiting wahoo is less common because you are either bump trolling or drifting goggle eyes or other live baits. You are not covering as much ground. Live baits rigged on light wire or titanium are my first choice, with fluorocarbon being second, due only to a wahoo’s super sharp teeth.

I’ve caught several wahoo on vertical jigs.

About 90 percent of those have come way offshore under some type of flotsam. I prefer a simple 2-ounce diamond Jig. All the wahoo I’ve caught on vertical jigs have been less than 10 pounds.

Wahoo as table fare is in my top five, maybe even top three. I’ve often said that if you have cooked it, it’s already burnt. Do yourself a favor and try some wahoo sashimi!

Capt. Ryan Palmer Family Jewell Fishing Charters 954-882-2631 • www.fjsportfishing.com

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WORKING THE NIGHT SHIFT Tim Barefoot

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ears ago, before I had access to a boat I have caught some pretty slip at the marina, I frequently pulled impressive numbers. For the boat to work completely ready to drop in the water and go fish by 5 or 5:30 p.m. This time of year, when WATCH it gets dark at 5:30 in the afternoon, this was the only time I had to fish, but it wound up being the best time of the day/season to fish.

My favorite nights are the full moons of winter. This is the time of year to catch some gator trout. With all the fishing pressure trout endure, some of the big girls may go completely nocturnal. I would be putting the boat in the water when everyone was taking out, and my constant question was, “Did you catch ’em today?”

On quite a few occasions, I would get the answer, “We didn’t catch sheet.”

That was the answer I was looking for.

That meant they were going to eat after dark. You see, when a lot of boats are buzzing around and on top of them, it can put them in the “lockjaw” mode. Let it turn dark, when all the “day-timers” go home, and that’s when the numbers of bites and some of the big girls eat.

NOTE: I can only talk so much smack… The biggest speck I’ve ever caught at night was 7.75 pounds, but

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example, one night we had 42 good ones.

That was before there was a limit, so my “limit” was when I had a cooler full. Back then I was selling them, so I didn’t have a problem keeping big numbers.

One of the standout colors was chartreuse at night. This produced more bites than anything else, and that was what I was looking VIDEO for. The more I fished the old faithful chartreuse MirrOlure, the more I loved it. But then we discovered the Rattle Trap. This was a complete game changer. Not only could you keep in touch with it, due to the resistance and vibration on the plug, but you could also cast it into the wind and a long distance.

Now I have come full circle back to fishing what they really eat best of all… a shrimp. A soft plastic (DOA) shrimp on a jig head, the 3/8-oz. Barefoot Jig. Primarily, I have been talking about speckled trout up to this point, but redfish and snook are especially good candidates for a night bite. All three of these species are programmed to eat a shrimp in the current. So, make the best out of the shortened daylight hours. Get in the boat after work and go fish the night shift.

For more info on this jig head and D.O.A. shrimp combo, visit barefootcatsandtackle.com or rigandjig.com.

d T e o Last n g i s e D Wa

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A True Bahamas Out Island 2022 Adventure BUCKET IN A SI S L A N D, B

Chasing bonefish with a fly rod is my love, so I try to make one or two fishing destination trips a year, one of which is always to The Bahamas for the Gray Ghosts of the flats. Its proximity, easy access, beautiful and uncrowded waters and diverse fishery make it a top choice. The fun part is researching (dreaming) what island and waters to try next.

After scouring the Internet and exchanging e-mails, I booked a three-day fishing trip for mid October. I knew there would not be many traveling fishermen this time of year, and if the weather held up, the fishing would be good.

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e are remote, virgin, pristine, with no noise, no ATMs, no malls, no traffic, no pollution, no swimming pools and no golf courses!” was the initial e-mail reply I received from Arnette Chisolm, co-owner of Chester’s Highway Inn Bonefish Lodge on Acklins Island. Perfect.

Exactly what I’m looking for, I thought to myself.

Having fished Andros, Abaco and Exuma the past few years, I was looking for a new island to explore. Frankly, I was also looking to get away from other fishermen!

By Greg Mendoza

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at Acklins Island

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Planning a trip anywhere in the Caribbean in October is always chancy with the hurricane season active.

I arrived on the Saturday flight from Nassau (there’s only 2 flights a week) and was met by Julius and Arnette Chisolm. During the 45-minute drive to the lodge, they explained how everything is shipped on the mail boat that arrives three times a month from Nassau.

All supplies have to be ordered well in advance.

Preparation for everything is key to their success. There are no groceries or convenience stores to run into when you need something.

After unpacking and eating a hearty lobster bisque for lunch, I had a few hours to try the gorgeous flat right in front of the lodge. I was skeptical, since I figured it gets pressured being so close to the lodge.

I thought at the very least I can get in a few practice casts and get my eyes adjusted to the flats. Was I wrong! Within minutes I spotted a school of happy bones. As I positioned

myself to intercept them, about 10 clear tails danced above the surface approximately 40 feet in front with no sense I was there. No way could this be happening so quickly, I thought to myself. One cast later my reel was singing the outgoing clicking sound I never get tired of. I was hooked up with what turned out to be a 20-inch bone. I was in heaven on this remote island catching fish on my own, and my three full days of guided fishing hadn’t even started!

Over the next three days, my guide took me to flats all around the Bight of Acklins. We waded some and boat fished most, depending on the stage of the tide. We never saw another fisherman or flats boat, even from neighboring Crooked Island. The fishing was spectacular,

you can drive to for the DIY angler. If you’re serious about bonefishing and want to try a more remote island but don’t want to travel halfway around the world, you should put Acklins Island on your bucket list. Don’t forget to bring an open mind and your sense of adventure.

Check out Chester’s Highway Inn Bonefish Lodge at chestersbonefishlodge.com.

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to say the least. I landed more than 20 bones over the first two days, with the largest fish measuring 25 and 31 inches. There were always a few sharks around when we got into action, so be careful, especially when you’re fighting and landing a fish. The weather turned on us on day three, so we went barracuda fishing with light tackle in a little deeper water. It’s

always good to bring a travel spinning rod for times like this.

Accommodations at Chester’s were clean, spacious and comfortable. The meals prepared by Julius and Arnette were outstanding.

They provide kayaks and bikes for going around after fishing, too. Their hospitality and friendship is something I will always remember, and because of them, I am already planning return trips.

Make sure you pack plenty of good bug repellent and anything else you think you may need. Don’t forget your back-up rods, either.

As mentioned earlier, there’s no running into a sporting goods or convenience store for supplies.

Acklins also has many wadeable flats

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LIFE IS A BEACH 72

WINTER SURF FISHING FOR SCHOOLING FISH

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By Richard L. Matteson

ow is the time to head to the beach and reel in some schooling winter fish. Here on Florida’s Treasure Coast, Spanish mackerel have been active around bait. As always, look for bait and birds.

If you have to travel to different beach accesses, do it. When you find the bait, you’ll find schooling Spanish mackerel.

I’ve had the most success fishing the trough around the first breakers early in the morning. There are mackerel there almost every morning. Later in the day, look for bait. In general, I like smaller flashy lures like crocodile spoons (1-oz. max), small diamond jigs, and 3/8-oz. DOA jigs with pearl white 4-inch Shad Tails (or silver

JANUARY 2022

sparkle Shad Tails).

Mackerel like flash, and quick erratic movement triggers strikes. The problem is they have razor-like teeth. Using a wire leader reduces the number of strikes, so the best solution is a heavier 40-lb. fluorocarbon leader.

Bring extra leaders and lures, because you will get cut off.

When you get a strike and feel the fish on, don’t set the hook, just speed crank the mackerel to the beach.

Do not stop until the fish is far enough past the breakers that if it flips off it can’t swim away. Mackerel are good eating, but slightly fishy. The trick is to remove strip of the dark meat along the spine when you do the fillet. It’s better not

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to use too sharp a knife, or you’ll cut through the skin on the second cut removing the flesh from the skin.

Bluefish are some of the best fighting winter fish. They combine strength with leaping ability. Bluefish are usually very aggressive and will hit a number of lures and also take cut-bait or shrimp. Like mackerel, they like flashy lures and fast retrieves.

Bluefish also have sharp teeth, but they don’t cut you off as often as mackerel. When you get a bluefish to the surf, try to keep it from turning its mouth into the fishing line or you’ll get cut off for sure. Bluefish are more fishy than mackerel and have darker meat. They are excellent when smoked, and smoked bluefish dip can’t be beat.

Snook can still be caught on the beaches in the morning or evening, but cold weather pushes most of them into deeper, warmer water around the inlets and bridges. January and February are the best months for bigger pompano. Sand fleas and red Fishbites are the standard baits. Long rods, which you use to cast 80 yards or more, are standard beach pompano rods.

Fishing over the side of the lagoon bridges is an easy way to hook pompano with small jigs and spoons or Fishbites.

Anglers have been getting some pompano off both the Jensen Beach Causeway Bridge (east) and the Stuart Bridge (east).

Richard L. Matteson Jr. is a long-time Coastal Angler contributor and the staff writer for Stuart Rid & Reel Club. Contact him at (336) 414-3440.

THINKING ABOUT QUITTING BOATING?

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erhaps your vessel needs a major repair. Maybe you sold your house and are moving away from the seashore. Maybe you are too busy to sell your boat, or you tried and found a lot of people didn’t have the resources to buy it, much less to move it.

There are a lot of reasons people have for getting rid of an older boat, working or not. We want to let you know that you can trust Boat Angel Outreach Center. We here at Coastal Angler have seen them help thousands get rid of their unwanted boats and receive generous IRS1098 tax receipts for doing so.

Did you know older, larger working boats can be donated for their fair market value? Did you know Boat Angel will walk you through the whole process, and most of the time even a boat that has been unused on your dock or in your backyard will be gone in less than 15 days?

I’ve known the people at Boat Angel Outreach for more than a decade, and I can personally vouch that this charity is both caring and focused on helping kids. 100 percent of their funding is from the sale of donated boats. They currently fund projects on four continents and ceaselessly work to make this world a better place, especially for children.

They have a courteous and diligent staff. They are experienced

in solving logistical problems and multi-state title issues, all while achieving their goals of getting the donated vessels moved away quickly.

So, if you’ve got a vessel that’s no longer working, or you have decided to move on from boating, I strongly recommend you give this great organization a call or contact them through their website. When your donation is completed, just forward your receipt to your tax preparer. Who knows how much money your donation will put back in your pocket?

We all know that an unused or nonworking boat is a drain on anyone’s finances. Fuel, maintenance bills, registration, insurance and slip fees are year-round expenses. Maybe it is finally time to move on.

A friend of mine once asked, “What is better than being a boat owner?”

“I don’t know, what?” I said.

“A friend with a boat,” he replied, smiling.

We all have friends with boats. Why not put the money saved into their gas tank and take a small fishing trip?

Boat Angel Outreach Center; www.boatangel.org; EIN 42-1619552; 800-700-2628.

Donate A Boat or Car Today!

HAVALON TALON:

By CAM Staff

CUTTING EDGE INNOVATION

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ny surgeon or taxidermist will tell you the best tool for cutting flesh is a scalpel. And that’s where knife-maker Havalon got its start. Their parent company, Havel’s, is a medical device company that supplies scalpels for surgical use. When the idea arose to bring the same incredibly sharp blades to the outdoors, it gave tools to outdoorsmen that are more precise than any hunting or fillet knife ever invented.

The first Havalon Piranta was a blade modeled after an autopsy scalpel that folded into a sturdy handle. It offered all sorts of outdoorsmen the benefits of an ultra-sharp scalpel blade in the form of a pocketknife. But the blade itself was not built to handle the rigors of everyday use.

That’s when Havalon began tinkering to find the best combination of sharpness and strength. The resulting innovation has made Havalon one of the top-selling knife companies in the country and the leader in the hunting industry.

“We have always felt—that a sharp blade does not need to be used with any excessive force,” said Havalon Marketing Director Ryan Cull. “This is still a core belief of our company, but we know there is a segment of consumers that want to have sturdier blades.”

The need for a sturdier blade that retains Havalon-level sharpness launched the Talon project. Designers set out to create a knife handle that accommodates an entire collection of different ultra-sharp blade styles. With a 3-inch serrated

blade, a 3-inch gut hook combo blade and fillet blades of 5, 7 and 9 inches, it is the only knife you’ll ever need at the cutting board or skinning pole.

This all-in-one precision cutting tool was three years in the making. Designing a handle mechanism to swap out blades quickly and easily was achieved with the ingeniously simple push-button Quik Change II system.

Finding the sweet spot between scalpel sharp and durable was the next step, and the blades also needed to be tailored to their particular uses.

Through more tinkering and testing, Havalon landed on AUS-8 steel—the gold standard—which offers the best combination of edge retention and strength. Thickness and shapes of the different blades were custom designed. Fillet knives require flexibility; gut hooks do not. Each blade type was carefully considered and rigorously tested to achieve optimal performance for its intended use.

The final result is a single knife kit that outperforms a whole cutlery set of traditional knives.

Extreme sharpness is something Havalon users have come to expect with blades intended for replacement when they lose their edge. Talon

blades are different. They are scalpel sharp, yet they are strong enough to be resharpened.

“So long as users don’t pry on the blades with extreme force or damage them in some other unforeseeable way, they should be able to go years without buying replacements,” said Cull.

“The versatility of the blade styles along with the strength and sharpness of the blades make the Talon one of the most innovative products to come out in the industry in years.”

To see all the features of the Talon and all of Havalon’s other scalpel-sharp knives, visit www.havalon.com.

WATCH

VIDEO

GULF DESCENDING DEVICES REQUIREMENT BEGINS IN JANUARY O n Jan. 13, the federal requirement will go into effect for anglers fishing for reef fish species to have a descending device or venting tool rigged and ready to use in Gulf of Mexico federal waters.

This requirement was part of the DESCEND Act of 2020, which was signed into law last January. It applies to commercial, forhire and private recreational vessels.

The intent is to reduce mortality caused by barotrauma on reef species, like red snapper.

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Barotrauma is an increase in internal gas pressure caused by the sudden changes in pressure that fish undergo when being reeled up from depths generally greater than 90 feet, though it can occur in shallower waters of 33 feet or more. Fish experiencing barotrauma have difficulty quickly swimming back to catch depth, often floating on the surface where they are vulnerable to attack by dolphins, sharks and birds.

Descending devices are a weighted hook,

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lip clamp or box that will hold a fish as it is lowered to a sufficient depth to allow for recovery from barotrauma. A venting tool is a sharpened, hollow instrument that can penetrate a fish’s abdomen to release excess gas acquired as it was brought to the surface.

NOAA Fisheries is currently seeking comments on a proposed rule to clarify descending device and venting tool definitions for the DESCEND Act. Learn more at www.fisheries.noaa.gov.

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