Coastal Angler Magazine | September 2022 | The Florida Keys by Coastal Angler Magazine

FREE FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE COASTALANGLERMAG.COMVOLUME 27 • ISSUE 330 SEPTEMBER 2022 PHOTO COURTESY OF CHERLYN ARNOLD IG: @SLAYHERLYN @CAMTAMagazine FREAKYFISH Monster Florida THE QUEST FOR ROYALTYGAMEFISH SNOOK THE FLORIDA KEYS EDITION

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TYLER WOOLCOTT DROP SHOT FOR FINICKY FISH

There are a few different styles of baits you can use on the drop shot, depending on what your fish are feeding on. This is what I usually base my bait and color choices off of. I usually throw a small finesse worm like the 13 Fishing Joy Stick Ultra Thin or a baitfish-style bait like the 13 Fishing Vertigo minnow. Both baits are small in size and can really pick up some bites when the fishing is tough.Bait color is important, but I like to keep things fairly simple. I typically throw a green pumpkin or a black-and-blue worm style bait. For the baitfish-style lure, I stick with whites or natural baitfish colors. Remember, you are trying to be as finesse as possible to trick a bass that’s not hungry into biting, so something simple and natural will excel. This technique has worked wonders for me all across the country. From down South in Florida all the way up to New York, bass eat this rig up everywhere. Next time you’re on the lake and the bite is tough, downsize your presentation and drag a drop shot around. It will pick up a few more bites.

Drop Shot Gear: Picking the right setup for a drop shot doesn’t have to be too difficult. I like a rod around 7 foot with a medium or a medium heavy action like the 13 Fishing Omen Black 7’1M. Pair up a 3,000 sized reel with some 10lb. Seaguar Smackdown braid and a 10-lb. fluorocarbon leader. Tyler Woolcott is a professional tournament angler and guide. Check out his website www.tylerwoolcottfishing.com.at

4 NATIONAL SEPTEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

The water can be a little warm this time of year, and it makes bass finicky. When the bite gets tough, a drop shot flat out gets bit. It catches fish everywhere I go, and every angler should have the technique in their arsenal.There are a few reasons a drop shot can out-perform other techniques this time of year. The first of these is because of how versatile you can be with it. I have thrown a drop shot around rock, wood, grass and even in completely open water. Smallmouth, largemouth and spotted bass will all pick up a drop-shot rig, so it’s a great option regardless of what part of the country you fish or what species you target.Another factor that makes this technique excel when other things aren’t working is it’s effective on heavily pressured and sluggish fish. Sometimes getting these fish to bite calls for light line and a smaller profile bait. The dropshot rig consists of a fluorocarbon leader leading to a hook of your choosing then, below the hook, about 12 inches of line tied to a drop shot weight on the end. This creates a rig that keeps your bait up off the bottom and drives finicky bass crazy.

You raise the flags of the fish just caught to show you weren’t skunked.

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Agiant snook should be on every angler’s bucket list. They’re big, they’re strong and they’re aggressive. Southern Florida boasts the most prolific snook fisheries in the world, and Capt. Patrick Smith, of Swamp to Sea Guide Service, operates in the heart of one of the best. Swamp to Sea fishes throughout Palm Beach County up to Stuart, Fla. At times, the snook fishing can be so good that the prospect is almost mundane for Capt. Smith. “If I’ve got clients who want to catch the snook of a lifetime, we’ll go out to the inlet and let them catch one or two. Then we’ll go do something else,” he said. “It’s cool to check a big snook off the list, but light tackle is moreCapt.fun.”Smith’s nonchalance about catching snook 35 to 43 inches long and up to 25 pounds is an attitude geared toward conservation of a species he loves. When big females congregate in the inlets to spawn around the full moons of summer, they are easy targets for anglers armed with big live baits like perch and croakers.

“They’re not smart fish. If they’re turned on, they’re going to eat. If they’re not, it may be five hours before they do,” he said. “But there’s going to be 30 to 40 minutes on the tide when those snook are eating. There’s not a lot of thought that goes into it. If one is interested, they all are.”

Throughout the summer, snook are catch-and-release-only to protect spawning fish. On the Atlantic side, snook harvest opens Sept. 1, with a 28- to 32-inch slot limit. Capt. Smith said the spawning pattern lasts well into September most years, but the big females are over the slot and must be released, anyway. He is more concerned with the beatings these fish take all summer long. His solution is to limit the number of fish he targets and to gear up heavy. Smith fishes 10,000 size reels on 50- to 100-lb. rods. He runs 80-lb. braid to a 60-lb. fluorocarbon leader and locks down the drag. The weakest link is an 8/0 thin wire circle hook, which is easier on the fish but must be changed out Heavyfrequently.gear combats a big snook’s propensity for bulldogging into structure. It also shortens the length of the fight to lessen the likelihood of fish succumbing to exhaustion or sharks. Smith said these large spawners can be 25 years and older. He urged anglers to handle them carefully for release and never to hold them vertically by their mouths.Ifyou’re looking for a snook to eat, there’s plenty of opportunity for that also. Between the moons some of the snook spread out to the bridges, docks and deep holes. The smaller, slot-sized males become more interested in feeding. Also, the mullet run will kick in toward the end of September. When mullet schools show up, everything from the fish to the anglers switch over to chasing bait. Contact Capt. Patrick Smith through his website www.swamptosea.com.

By Nick Carter

Before the Transition

As always, the jetties are a favorite. The high current and cooler Gulf water attract every fish species that swims in our bays and nearshore waters. It’s not uncommon to catch some offshore fish there as well; it happens every year.

Although the temps are still high, you can have a successful day on the water if you modify your techniques. Remember to apply sunblock before you leave the dock, wear appropriate protective clothing and drink plenty of water. Stay safe and have fun!

Although I prefer lures over bait, success rates lean toward live shrimp or finfish this time of year. Depending on conditions, these can be free-lined, Carolina rigged, or fished under a loud popping cork. A free-lined shrimp tossed near a granite jetty is a good bet on any day. Stepping away from the live version, cut mullet or shad can be winners for a big pull from a red, black drum or shark. A circle hook Carolina rigged on the bottom can entice those large predators to strike. This is a great method if you have kids aboard.

The Texas heat and drought are one for the record books and can make a day on the water unpleasant if you plan to stay much past noon, but there are some methods to help you be productive until things start to cool off. Many of the estuaries that were impacted by the floods are some of our deeper bay systems, and that is a good thing this time of year. Heading out early will greatly increase your odds and give you more time on the water while it is cool, relatively speaking. I have found these bays have been forgotten by some, and they’ve never been fished by those new to our sport, which makes for less crowds on the water. I target the deeper reefs in the upper stretches of the bay near the rivers. Locating new washouts can also pay off, and those are not on the maps or public knowledge, so doing a little recon before you head out on each trip can make for a more productive day.

Work with what Mother Nature gives you. Here on the upper Texas coast, we’ve had about seven years of excessive rainfall which, in general terms, made some of our bays unfishable for most of that time. Due to excessive fresh water, those of us who like to fish where the tributaries enter into the bays had to seek new areas where the salinity levels were suitable for speckled trout. This year, things are back to normal, and we need to relearn old patterns and work with what Mother Nature is giving us.

By Capt. Michael Okruhlik

8 NATIONAL SEPTEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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

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The IGFA world record redfish weighed in at 94 lbs. 2 oz. It was caught off the North Carolina Outer Banks in 1984.

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n September, with the famed mullet run in full swing, big bull redfish will be following schools of mullet and feeding heavily. It’s one of the best times of year to hook up with a bull red, and my favorite place to target them is in the Sebastian Inlet. Red drum, more commonly known as redfish, are a familiar species to most saltwater anglers. With beautiful coppercolored scales fading into a white belly, their distinctive mark is an eye spot at the base of the tail. Catching a red with multiple black spots is a true honor for many inshore and nearshore anglers. This eye spot is not merely a decoration, it also serves as a defense mechanism to confuse predators into thinking a redfish’s tail is its Reds can be found on the coasts of Mexico all the way to Cape Cod, Mass. Their habitats can vary widely due to redfish being euryhaline, which means they tolerate a wide range of salinity. Redfish are typically a nearshore species, meaning they can be found in estuaries, bays, mudflats, oyster beds and off of beaches. Young redfish prefer estuaries, where there is an abundance of prey as well as protection from larger predators. Once they reach about three years old, they tend to move off of the beaches into coastal areas. Once redfish reach maturity, at three or four years, they begin spawning. Their spawning season usually takes place from mid-August to mid-November; however, this may vary due to temperatures and other factors. Redfish usually congregate to spawn near or inside tidal inlets or fast-flowing water to ensure as many eggs as possible are fertilized. Males produce a drumming sound to attract females by contracting their muscles to vibrate their swim bladders. Females produce one-half to two million eggs per season. Most eggs do not make it to the safety of bay areas. During the mullet run, large schools of redfish follow migrating mullet. The easiest way to target these fish is to drop a live mullet below the main school of mullet. If you’re specifically targeting bull reds, you’ll want to give it a go at night. Drifting large chunks of ladyfish on an outgoing current will almost always produce a large fish. Occasionally, you will come across large schools of redfish feeding on the surface at the mouth of the inlet on an outgoing tide. When this occurs, use topwater plugs, swimbaits and large jigs. In the backcountry around the mangroves, gold spoons, live shrimp and small crabs work best.

By Emily Rose Hanzlik

Emily Rose Hanzlik holds 51 IGFA world records in various categories. She hails from West Palm Beach, where she has a part time Bowfin Guide Service as well as fishing classes for Jr. Anglers. Find her on Social Media @emilyhanzlikoutdoors.

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New Artificial Reef Deployed Off Mexico Beach

6 FLORIDA SEPTEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

For more information, go to ccaflorida.org.

“Improving and creating sustainable fisheries, coastal habitats and waterways is CCA Florida’s purpose,” CCA Florida Executive Director Brian Gorski said. “Today’s reef deployment is an extension of that commitment and also of our partnership with Duke Energy – signifying our mutual dedication to protecting Florida’s marine habitat for today and generations to come.”

Artificial reefs initiate the development of natural, thriving habitats for various species of fish, invertebrates, and other marine life, such as smaller organisms that are vital food sources for other marine species, with the overall goal to create an ever-evolving ecosystem while enhancing fisheries and improving water quality.

“Duke Energy Florida recognizes the importance of environmental stewardship and the economic benefit it provides to the communities we serve,” Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president said. “We are proud to invest in CCA Florida’s work with the Mexico Beach Artificial Reef Association to bring this new artificial reef to Mexico Beach, a win for marine life, local anglers and outdoor enthusiasts along Florida’s West Coast.”

T hose looking for some new numbers to fish off Mexico Beach now have them thanks to CCA Florida, Duke Energy and the Mexico Beach Artificial Reef Association. In May, the organizations teamed up to deploy four 38,000-pound and four 5,000-pound artificial reef modules off Mexico Beach. They are calling the new honeyhole “The Duke Energy/CCA Florida Reef.” The eight reef modules were deployed by Walter Marine at the prepermitted Sherman Site, an area known for attracting red and gray snappers, amberjack, king mackerel, Spanish mackerel, gag grouper and cobia. These specific reef structures, ranging in height from 8 to 25 feet, provide greater habit diversity while attracting fish and appealing to recreational anglers. The reef site is located offshore 11 miles west of Mexico Beach at approximately 29º 55.384, -85º 40.765.

Since 2018, CCA Florida and Duke Energy have released more than 110,000 redfish along Florida’s Gulf Coast in effort to relieve the declining population. The Duke Energy/CCA Florida Reef deployment is an expansion of its collaboration and symbolizes its continued dedication to enhancing Florida’s marine habitat and expanding fishing opportunities for local anglers.

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THE CHANGE WILL BEGIN IN SEPTEMBER

E verything offshore will start to notice when water temps drop a little at the end of the month, and even more obvious will be shorter daylight hours. All the fish we pursue will start thinking about one of three things: spawning, gorging to fatten up for winter or migrating back south. I’m most concerned with the grouper/snapper complex and the wahoo, so this puts my fishing in overdrive for the next few months. Groupers and snappers will be hot as a firecracker until after Christmas. Wahoo fishing will be at the peak by then as well. Another species I like to stay tuned into are the beeliners (vermillion snapper). When you stay in touch with these guys, you pretty much stay in touch with everything, because everything out there loves to eat a beeliner. The full moon is going to be on Saturday, Sept. 10. This will be a good time to spend the night at the break and have the livewell full to fish just before dawn. Beeliners will chew hard during this full moon, and the bite will shut down as soon as the moon disappears on the western horizon. If you can keep the bright lights going all night, the squid and the biggest, fattest beeliners will be readily available for the taking. When you have these two things gathered up in mass, you definitely have the wahoo and grouper there also. This is a good reason to keep the light line out with a fresh squid or a Boston mackerel just past where the light disappears into the dark water.

The only problem is the kings are there too. You may like to catch kings, and I apologize for that last sentence, but if I catch a king, it’s accidental. A lot of folks don’t even consider fishing at night, and certainly not fishing the light line at night, but it can be extremely effective for wahoo and kings. The first wahoo I ever caught from an anchored boat was at night, and it was a heck of an experience. We saw the fish swim under the lights, and I quickly put out a live beeliner. The beeliner swam away from the boat, and just as he got to the dark water, we saw the bite. I was instantly addicted to this style of bottom fishing and light lining versus just trolling for wahoo, tuna and dolphin. Dolphin will not eat at night, normally, but the night bite for tuna can be good. The stack of beeliners is the main thing I’m looking for as a good starting point for a place to fish. Gags and scamps will definitely go with the food (beeliners) until the beginning or middle of October. Then the gags will leave the beeliners to migrate inshore in search of cigs and sardines and to spawn. For more information, see www.barefootcatsandtackle.com.

8 FLORIDA SEPTEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM2 LOCATION JUNE 2020 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

Tim Barefoot

Here we go again. The hubbub over federal management of red snapper seems never ending. Most recently, Southeastern legislators penned a letter asking NOAA to suspend consideration of area closures in the South Atlantic. Meanwhile, legislators from states on the Gulf of Mexico are pushing back against new proposed federal regulations. Both groups contend the federal government is not using “the best available science” in management decisions.

The South Atlantic fishery seems to be in a situation similar to what the Gulf fishery faced a few years ago. Following years of ridiculously short red snapper seasons to rebuild the stock, anglers on the water report red snapper so thick that it’s the only species they can catch. These fish must be released, despite the high likelihood they will succumb to pressure-related injuries. Ultimately these discards count against fishermen.

It’s worth noting that last year’s data from a similar study, the Gulf of Mexico Great Red Snapper Count, indicated there were up to three times as many red snapper in the Gulf of Mexico as the numbers federal managers were using to make management decisions. On that note, Gulf legislators are not pleased with how “more accurate” state data is being calibrated into the “fundamentally flawed” MRIP data that federal managers have used to set regulations for years. The “data calibration framework” included within proposed rule changes would result in reductions of the state annual catch limit for some states and increases for others. State annual catch limits would increase for Florida and Louisiana by 100,000 and 50,000 pounds, respectively. Texas’ limit would remain the same, while Alabama and Mississippi’s limits would decrease by 586,000 and 95,000 pounds, respectively.Theproposal would also increase the overall red snapper overfishing limit from 15.5 million pounds to 25.6 million, while increasing the acceptable biological catch from 15.1 million to 15.4 million. That might sound pretty good for anglers; however, legislators pointed out that this would reduce allowable catch from 97 percent to 60 percent of the sustainable limit.

“By requiring the states to calibrate their more accurate—and NMFS certified—catch data to an outdated and fundamentally flawed MRIP, NMFS has failed to find an effective solution and is not making decisions based on the best available science while refusing to appropriately integrate the new data,” reads a letter from legislators. For more information on the continued political wrangling over red snapper, visit coastalanglermag.com.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM SEPTEMBER 2022 FLORIDA 9

“Now, on top of a short red snapper season, it is our understanding that there are discussions about broad area or season closures of all bottom fishing to stop red snapper encounters altogether,” reads the letter. “This decision would be crippling economically for our states that rely heavily on our coastal Legislatorseconomy.”havecalled on NOAA to hold off on area closure consideration until data from the ongoing South Atlantic Great Red Snapper Count can be considered. Results of this study, which began in 2021, are expected by 2025.

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LURES PATRICK SEBILE ROD, REEL AND LINE FOR DISTANCE

Legendary angler Patrick Sebile is a world record holder and an award-winning designer of innovative lures and fishing gear.Check out his creations at abandofanglers.com.

Proper guide placement makes a difference, as well. On some rods, the first guide is too close to the reel and/or the legs holding the rod to the blank are too short. This creates an angle at which the line hits the guide and adds drag to the line and lure. This simple detail can reduce casting distance as much as 10 percent. If you find a rod you really like, but the first guide is not seated properly, consider moving the guide. On the reel side, I prefer a slightly conic spool that dumps and winds line evenly. That is pretty much all you need from a reel dedicated to long distance. For line, stick to braid for its smaller diameter. I prefer braid with a smooth finish without coating. When distance is what matters most, do not hesitate to drop 25 to 50 percent lighter line than what you would normally use. For example, 40-lb. braid is common when surf fishing for striped bass. If you need longer casts to reach the fish, it is worth dropping to 30or even 20-lb. test. If you’re using a heavy lure, tie in a shock head 50 to 100 percent stronger to absorb the impact of the cast.

10 FLORIDA SEPTEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM2 LOCATION JUNE 2020 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

W e’ve talked a lot in this column over the last few months about lures that help achieve long-distance casts. Now, I’d like to cover the rest of the equipment that will help you cast farther and reach more fish.The first key element is the rod. When it comes to casting for distance, you want a fast-action rod. This is true if you are a surf angler, a boat angler targeting fast-moving tuna, or an inshore angler targeting shallow-water reds and trout that are easy to spook. The more flexible your rod is, the less momentum it will impart to the lure. Make sure your blank is stiff. Rod blanks come with a lure weight range. Most of the time the optimal lure weight for casting distance is between 1/2 and 2/3 of the weight the rod is rated for. So, for a 2- to 6-ounce rod rating, the best weight for long casts is typically 3 to 4 ounces. A rod rated for 3/8 to 1 ½ ounces usually casts farthest with a 3/4 to 1 ounce lure. Choose a rod that matches the lures you’ll be throwing. The rod handle is also a big deal when it comes to distance. For a spinning rod, you want the length of a forearm, plus a fist, between the reel seat and the butt of the rod. Length gives you leverage, but you don’t want it to be too long. For surf-casting rods, about 1 ½ times the length of your forearm seemsHigh-qualitybest. guides also make a big difference in how far you can cast. Typically you’re going to have to spend more for quality guides, but consider it an investment that results in consistently longer casts.

the last few months about lures that help achieve longdistance casts. Now, I’d like to cover the rest of the equipment that will help you cast farther and reach more fish.

The first key element is the rod. When it comes to casting for distance, you want a fast-action rod. This is true if you are a surf angler, a boat angler targeting fast-moving tuna, or an inshore angler targeting shallow-water reds and trout that are easy to spook. The more flexible your rod is, the less momentum it will impart to the lure. Make sure your blank is stiff. Rod blanks come with a lure weight range. Most of the time the optimal lure weight for casting distance is between 1/2 and 2/3 it to be too long. For surf-casting rods, about 1 ½ times the length of your forearm seems best. High-quality guides also make a big difference in how far you can cast. Typically you’re going to have to spend more for quality guides, but consider it an investment that results in consistently longer casts. Proper guide placement makes a difference, as well. On some rods, the first guide is too close to the reel and/or the legs holding the rod to the blank are too short. This creates an angle at which the line hits the guide and adds drag to the line and lure. This simple detail can reduce casting distance as much as 10 percent. If you find a rod you really like, but the first guide is not seated properly, consider moving the guide. On the reel side, I prefer a slightly conic spool that dumps and winds line evenly. That is pretty much all you need from a reel dedicated to long distance. For line, stick to braid for its smaller diameter. I prefer braid with a smooth finish without coating. When distance is what matters most, do not hesitate to drop 25 to 50 percent lighter line than what you would normally use. For example, 40-lb. braid is common when surf fishing for striped bass. If you need longer casts to reach the fish, it is worth dropping to 30- or even 20-lb. test. If you’re using a heavy lure, tie in a shock head 50 to 100 award-winning designer of innovative lures and fishing gear. Check out his creations at abandofanglers.com. The very best hunting knives possess a perfect balance of form and function. They’re carefully constructed from fine materials, but also have that little something extra to connect the owner with nature.

The handle is made from genuine natural bone, and features decorative wood spacers and a hand-carved motif of two overlapping feathers— a reminder for you to respect and connect with the natural world. This fusion of substance and style can garner a high price tag out in the marketplace. In fact, we found full tang, stainless steel blades with bone handles in excess of $2,000. Well, that won’t cut it around here. We have mastered the hunt for the best deal, and in turn pass the spoils on to our customers. But we don’t stop there. While supplies last, we’ll include a pair of $99 8x21 power compact binoculars and a genuine leather sheath FREE when you purchase the Huntsman Blade. Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. Feel the knife in your hands, wear it on your hip, inspect the impeccable craftsmanship. If you don’t feel like we cut you a fair deal, send it back within

30 days for a complete refund of the item price. Limited Reserves. A deal like this won’t last long. We have only 1120 Huntsman Blades for this ad only. Don’t let this beauty slip through your fingers. Call today! Stauer… Afford the Extraordinary .® Full tang stainless steel blade with natural bone handle —now ONLY $79! BONUS! Call today and you’ll also receive this genuine leather sheath! Not actualshownsize. 14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. HUK831-01 Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.comStauer ® *Discount is only for customers who use the offer code versus the listed original Stauer.com price. California residents please call 1-800-333-2045 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product. Rating of A+ Bad to the Bone -aEXCLUSIVEFREEStauer®8x21CompactBinoculars$99value-withpurchaseofHuntsmanBlade Huntsman Blade $249* Offer Code Price Only $79 + S&P Save $170 1-800-333-2045YourInsiderOfferCode:HUK831-01 You must use the insider offer code to get our special price. •12" overall length; 6 ¹⁄2" stainless steel full tang blade • Genuine bone handle with brass hand guard & bolsters • Includes genuine leather sheath What Stauer Clients Are Saying About Our Knives êêêêê “This knife is beautiful!” — J., La Crescent, MN êêêêê “The feel of this knife is unbelievable...this is an incredibly fine instrument.” — H., Arvada, CO

The blade is full tang, meaning it doesn’t stop at the handle but extends to the length of the grip for the ultimate in strength. The blade is made from 420 surgical steel, famed for its sharpness and its resistance to corrosion.

If you’re on the hunt for a knife that combines impeccable craftsmanship with a sense of wonder, the $79 Huntsman Blade is the trophy you’re looking for.

ECS CUSTOM RODS

SPINNINGSALINAREEL OKUMAFISHINGUSA.COM

New Okuma ECS Custom rods are designed for the harsh environment east coast fishermen face daily. They are constructed with a hybrid 24ton carbon and e-glass blank that features Okuma’s UFR-II: Ultimate Flex Reinforcement rod tip technology for the ultimate in lifting power. With spinning, casting and trolling rods, the new ECS Custom series will adorn the back of your boat nicely. There are two spinning rods in the lineup with a 6’ Heavy and 6’6” Medium Heavy. Three casting rods for live bait and bottom fishing come in 6’ Heavy, 6’6” X-Heavy and 7’ Medium actions. There are also two trolling configurations. Two rods feature Roller Stripper and Roller Tip. These rods come in a 6’4” Medium Heavy and 6’ Heavy action. The other two trolling rods feature all roller guides and are both 6’ Heavy and X-Heavy actions. With the brute strength and drag-ripping speed anglers see on the east coast, Okuma went with only high-end components on the ECS Custom rods. All spinning and casting rods feature ALPS deep press 316-grade stainless steel guide frames with zirconium inserts. Models with All Roller Guides feature ALPS RX Series Rollers as well as Sea Guide Neptune Adjustable Rod Butts. All ECS Custom rods feature machined aluminum, anodized rod gimbals. For more information on ECS Custom Rods please visit your local retailer.

Okuma’s new Salina spinning reels are lightweight, ready for battle, and designed for inshore and offshore duty. These reels are constructed of Okuma’s LITECAST body material which is 15 percent lighter than die cast aluminum. They are built for everything from light inshore to heavy offshore, and they’re perfect for high-speed vertical jigging or all-day casting.The Salina features a 6HPB +1RB corrosion-resistant stainless-steel ball bearing system with a full grease pack and waterproof seals. Salina’s Hybrid Carbonite and Japanese felt Dual Force Drag system puts out over 33 pounds of drag. With Okuma’s HDGII: High-Density Main Gear and precision machine cut brass pinion gear, you will get a smooth retrieve cast after cast. Okuma also uses a machined aluminum, screw-in handle arm with a machined aluminum twotone anodized ball handle knob. The three larger size reels feature a manual bail trip Therefunction.aresix models of Salina. The 4,000, 5,000 and 6,000 size reels feature high-speed 5.8:1 gear ratios. The 8,000, 10,000 and 14,000 size reels feature standard gear ratios of 5.4:1. All models have an interchangeable screw-in handle system that can be changed from left to right-hand retrieve. For more information on Salina Spinning reels, visit your local retailer.

12 FLORIDA SEPTEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

OKUMA

FACEBOOK.COM/CAMFLORIDAKEYS SEPTEMBER 2022 FLORIDA KEYS 1 Capt. Greg Poland 305.393.3327 | gregpoland.com Instagram: gregpoland Facebook: Fishing in the Florida Keys with Capt. Greg gregpolandphotography.comPolandgregpolandstudios.com

Florida

By: Capt. Greg Poland

Advertise Your Business from Key Largo thru Key West Call 305.280.2021 or email: camflkeys@gmail.com

—

Keys

Sunrise is The Time

Summertime in the Florida Keys means it’s a good time of year to start your day on the water at sunrise if you really want to catch fish. I have been meeting my clients at dawn to catch the live bait, then finding great fishing spots in the Everglades for small tar pon around the creeks or shorelines but it’s all over by the time most people are on the hit ting the snooze button for the 3rd time. Even though you may be on vacation and you want to sleep in, there is nothing like watching tarpon rolling around at the start of the day. Honestly, I don’t like getting up in the dark either, but I know this is the best time of the day to get started. If the backcountry is not your idea of a good time the same goes for being one of the first guys to head offshore in search of Mahi Mahi. Most guys are running a long way offshore, so getting an early start will ensure you of being the first guy to find that elusive floating tree stump that has a cooler full of schoolies around it. When I leave the dock, I always turn on Fish Mapping which is a SirusXm subscription that will overlay onto your chart plotter, and it gets me headed towards the optimum areas. After using this for a few years, I find that it not only works but saves me running all over the ocean burning extra fuel. If you don’t have a satellite to help, my advice would be to run out to 700ft and start looking through your binoculars until you see something floating, or a flock of birds diving and run over to check it out. Once you get around the birds, slow troll a squid or if you took the time to catch live baits toss a few freebies out and if anything is in the area. I have a feeling you will get a bite. After loading the Yeti with a few slammers and washed down the boat it’s probably time to head back to the reef line to see if there is a lobster lurking under a rock. Summertime in the Florida Keys is a magical time of the year, whether you are out to catch that fish you have been reading about since childhood or snorkel for a lobster dinner there is no time like the present so get out on the water after all that’s what the Florida Keys lifestyle is all about. If you are looking to get out on a charter, I would love to show you around the Islamorada area, my contact info is below or stop by the Lorelei sometime to say hello and tell me a fish story! Contact Capt. Greg at 305.393.3327 or email gregpoland@icloud.com

2 FLORIDA KEYS SEPTEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FLORIDA-KEYS

The cubera is the largest of the Western Atlantic snapper species, these fish can reach lengths of over 5 feet and weigh over 120 pounds! Its enormous adult size makes this species highly prized by game fishermen and commercial fisheries throughout the Caribbe an and South Atlantic. The scientific species name cyanopterus was in spired by the Greek cyano- meaning blue and -pterus meaning wing which correlates to the blue-ish pigment that can be present on the membranes of the cubera’s fins which is something to keep in mind for positive identification! This species at a smaller size can be easily misidentified with its cous in the gray aka mangrove snapper (Lutjanus griseus). A surefire way to identify cubera snapper is to check the roof their mouths! A few species of snapper have distinct vomerine tooth patch shapes, a small area of sandpaper-like teeth located on the top palate of the fish. Gray snapper have a distinctive arrow shaped patch with a long tail while the cubera have a triangular shaped patch with no tail portion. This method of ID may be difficult to conduct with live fish as they may be snapping their teeth so it’s great to familiarize yourself with some other identi fying characteristics although less definitive. The gray snapper’s teeth are smaller but also closer together than the cubera’s larger spaced-out canines. The cubera have more robust features in comparison to gray snapper when observing their darker pigmented heavy-duty fins and the lip bone aka maxilla which is wider/thicker. Because these snappers are similar in appearance as juveniles, many regulatory bodies set the minimum size limit the same for both the gray and cubera; however, in Florida cubera do have a max boat limit of 2 fish over 30 inches which gray snapper do not. The cubera snapper can be spotted from from Massachusetts to Brazil in depths from 2-200 feet with higher occurrences of inshore sightings taking place in more tropical regions. Juvenile cubera have an association with softer bottom estuarine habitats such as sea grass beds and mangrove roots but as they grow, they tend to migrate to their adult rocky reefs, ledges and wrecks. A favorite bait among anglers when targeting big fish on deeper structures are large crustaceans which the cubera can make quick work of with its powerful jaws!

— For more fishy content and updates on upcoming educational programs, check out the Collier County Sea Grant Facebook page, YouTube Channel, Instagram page or Michael Sipos’ UF/IFAS blog.

Atlantic Cubera Snapper

Cubera are a long-lived species with one 2017 paper aging a fish to 55 years old! This makes the cubera the second lon gest lived snapper in its range with first place awarded to the red snapper which have been aged to 57 years old in the Gulf of Mexi co. The time of year spawning occurs in this species can vary across cubera’s range but generally these snapper reproduce during the late spring to late summer with peak activity in Florida occurring in June and July. Cubera can become reproductive at 4-5 years old which correlates to 21.5 inches in total length. This species has been observed to grow rapidly for the first 12 years of their lives. In one study of 106 cubera, the average size for a 5-year-old fish was 27.7 inches; however, snapper over 39 inches varied from 11 to 55 years old. This variability with size and age is common in longer lived large reef fish.

IGFA World Record: 124 lbs 12 oz, Garden Bank, Louisiana 2007 Florida Record: 116 lbs 6 oz, Clearwater 1979 By: Michael Sipos, Florida Sea Grant agent, UF/IFAS Extension Lutjanus cyanopterus

Red Hot Offshore

By: Capt. Bruce Andersen

4 FLORIDA KEYS SEPTEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FLORIDA-KEYS Mile Marker 48 / Marathon / www.thetacklebox.com305.289.0540 Penn – Daiwa – Shimano – Fin Nor – Okuma Rod & Reel Sales / Service / Repair Bait: Live – Frozen – Fresh Ice: Bagged – Block – Bulk FISHING CHARTERS & GUIDE SERVICE DexterKnives SmithOptics CostaandSunglassesApparel Pelagic and OceanicApparel & Hats Tackle BoxT-shirts - Hats - Visors InsectNo-See-UmRepellant MerchandiseCalcutta Triple D and Tuna Killers FishingTormentorGear

September is here and it’s my favorite time to fish offshore of the Florida Keys. It’s a great time to get in on the late summer action for blackfin tuna and mahi. The tuna bite has always been great in late summer and early fall, but the last few years it has also brought some of the best dolphin fishing of the year. Just a few years ago I would have told you that the peak of the dolphin fishing in the keys came in early summer, sometime around the month of June. I don’t know if it has to do with climate change, changes in migration patterns, or just the amount of fishing pressure in gener al, but if you ask me or most of the other charter captains in the upper keys, for the last several years the mahi fishing has actually been better in late summer and early fall. The best tuna fishing off of the Upper Keys will usually be found around the seamounts like the Islamorada hump, the 409 hump, and the west hump. They can be caught several different ways. Almost anyone can get in on the ac tion trolling small feathers and squid skirts rigged on light leaders pulled far back behind the boat. My favorite way to catch the tuna is live baiting them with either pil chards or cigar minnows. This technique requires a lot of live bait, but there’s nothing more fun than chumming the tuna into a frenzy with a live well full of pilchards. If you’ve never experienced this type of fishing, I highly rec ommend booking a charter to get in on the action and see what it’s all about.

You can reach Captain Bruce Andersen at Capt. Easy Charters, MM 85, call 305.360.2120 or email at: captbrucekey@comcast.net

The best dolphin fishing can take place anywhere from 10 miles offshore and out. You’ll find them the same ways you do in early summer. Floating debris, birds, and weed lines are all great signs to look for when targeting the mahi. As a general rule, I like to concentrate more on current edges with sargasso weed lined up on it and a little bit less on birds this time of year, as sometimes it seems like the birds don’t get on the fish as consistently as they do earlier in the season. You’ll catch mahi of all sizes this time of year, but often you can find decent sized schools of nice gaffer size mahi this late in theTheseason.combination of the mahi fishing we’ve had the last few years and the awesome blackfin tuna bite we experience this time of year can make for an amazing offshore fishing trip. Give me a call and let’s get in on the action!

— www.captaineasycharters.com

By: Joe Sheaffer

As we enter the fall season, we know the red fish will show up in large schools and they will be easier to find and definitely more ag gressive as they hang together in these large groups. There are many different techniques and lure presentations that can be successful in getting redfish to strike during this time of year. One lure that many use this time of year is a spoon. It seems every angler has a certain spoon, color, different ways to rig it, different ways to retrieve it and many other strategies. I’m definitely not an expert but I have figured out a few things that have helped me catch more redfish with this lure. A few keys that have helped me catch fish using this lure.

2. I usually tie the spoon to my leader with a loop knot and have had no issues with line twist but a uni knot works fine.

Let the Spoon do the Work

1. I typically use a Gold Spoon, usually a ¼ -½ oz, depending on wind, current, and depth. I have used many different makes and models and have had success with each.

3. I like to make long casts, as this really makes a difference especially with schooling fish.

5. The most important strategy is the retrieve. Using a slow steady retrieve has proven to be more effective. Faster erratic presentations haven’t proved to be as successful. One last thing, I have caught many snook, trout and other species with this lure, so it can be an effective all around presentation. The spoon is definitely a very effective lure, and I would encourage you to give it a try anytime but especially during the fall when the Reds are schooled up. Good luck and keep casting.

FACEBOOK.COM/CAMFLORIDAKEYS SEPTEMBER 2022 FLORIDA KEYS 5

4. I don’t attach anything to the spoon and the only thing I add is some type of a scent like Procure. I’m not sure how much scent helps but I definitely don’t think it hurts.

The Restoration Blueprint is nearing the end of a lengthy conversation that began with us asking 17 questions about the health and condition of our sanctuary resources. But the conversation is not quite finished. We want–and need–your feedback on these newly-refined proposals, and have sched uled ample opportunities for you to provide public comment. Our website (FloridaKeys.noaa.gov) features a wealth of materials.

A Proposal for Restoring Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary

By Sarah Fangman - Superintendent, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary

Taking a cue from our colleagues at the Na tional Park Service, who understand the perils of feeding wild animals, the proposed rule pro poses to prohibit the feeding and attracting of fish, including sharks, from any vessel or while diving. Simply put, this is a safety issue—for humans and the animals—and a host of data demonstrate the damages this practice can have on the be havior and health of fish. The proposal does not affect current exceptions for chumming and incidental bait produced by traditional fishing activities.

NOAA carefully considered extending the prohibition to shore-based oper ations, but is not proposing to regulate that activity at this time Even from land you can witness the impact of derelict vessel groundings, and their removal costs our local government hundreds of thousands of dol lars each year. However, the cost to the sanctuary’s habitat is even great er. Recognizing a need for action, the proposed rule prohibits anchoring, mooring, or occupying a vessel at risk of becoming derelict, with definitions that align with existing state regulations. Under our proposal the sanctuary would grow in size by approximately

1,000 square miles. The majority of this expansion includes a distinct unit at Pulley Ridge in the Gulf of Mexico, the deepest known coral reef off the con tinental U.S. In addition, we propose becoming the first marine sanctuary in the country to prohibit discharges of all kinds from cruise ships, except those for necessary cooling water.

As you educate yourself on Restoration Blueprint, we ask that you con sider the latest proposal from a variety of vantage points. The sanctuary serves many users, which means everyone must come to the table with some measure of compromise or willingness to hear other sides of the story. I recall an analogy that seems fitting: “We’re trying to protect an entire solar system–not just a single planet.”

Let’s go boldly, together.

6 FLORIDA KEYS SEPTEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FLORIDA-KEYS

Even with the boundary expansion, zone additions and zone modifica tions, only 15% of the sanctuary’s proposed 4,800 square miles would fall within managed zones (most of which allow access), leaving plenty of space for users of every kind.

RESTORATION BLUEPRINT:

It’s a natural human instinct to confront challenges in their simplest form; to distill complex problems into single solutions. But there is no simple solution to what is happening to the complex issues affecting the Florida Keys, and certainly no miracle cure that will return our ecosystem to what it was like, or how it functioned 50 years ago. What is needed is a multi-disciplinary approach, one where the “whole is greater than the sum of theWeparts.”callthis solution Restoration Blueprint, the first major update to our regulations since the sanctuary was established more than 30 years ago. Back then, Florida had 700,000 registered boats. Today, there are more than one million.The single largest source of new, proposed protections targets seagrass. History shows idle speed zones to be an effective tool for protecting shallow habitat, and under Restoration Blueprint, these regulations would expand from one-square mile to 21 square miles in total. In addition, we propose increasing no-motor zones by a total of three-square miles. Vessels with combustion engines may still enter a no-motor zone by us ing push pole, paddle, sail, electric motor, or some other means.

Another pillar of the plan underscores our responsibility to monitor managed zones to evaluate the impact of our management actions over time. We have already demonstrated a willingness to pivot our management activ ities based on habitat monitoring, as evidenced by the proposed removal of French Reef and Rock Key as Sanctuary Pres ervation Areas. Consistency is a critical condition for en hancing compliance, and the primary reason we propose removing a fishing exception in four Sanctuary Preservation Areas (SPA). An glers are already burdened by a complex set of rules and it only increases confusion when most SPAs are no-take, while a handful allow catch and release. Consistency of regulations will improve compliance and, even with this change, less than 5% of sanctuary waters would be closed by no fishing regulations.

FACEBOOK.COM/CAMFLORIDAKEYS SEPTEMBER 2022 FLORIDA KEYS 7 ShelterBayMarine.com | 305-743-7008 77 Coco Plum Drive, Marathon, FL 33050 24’ 43’ 41’ N - 81’ 00’ 49’ W LAUNCH SCHEDULER APP PLATINUM MERCURY MARINE DEALER YAMAHASERVICEWARRANTYCENTERBOATS YOUR FLORIDA KEYS MERCURY AUTHORIZED REPOWER CENTER Rack Storage • 24/7 Security • Service • Sales • Parts • Fuel

By: Eric Henson

Favorite Fishing Month

September is my favorite month of the year because it is the first month of the year that shows some relief from the summer’s long hot days, and it also happens to be my birthday! As the days slowly begin to shorten and the temperatures lower a bit, it triggers the majority of fish to start feeding heavily. The species have been spending their time spawning all summer, so they will be on a tear looking for their next meal. You can see this feeding response pret ty much all over Florida. With that being said, it’s great for me, especially because I like to travel to different locations throughout Florida celebrating my birthday!

One of my favorite places to travel this time of the year is to the Florida Keys fishing for bonefish. Plus, it’s one of the greatest times of the year to target permit, so it’s pretty much a win-win! The only real downside is that it’s the tail end of hurricane season and winds can still be horrid. I’ve had some incredible trips canceled for this reason; nonetheless when it’s good it’s good! Like I said earlier, it is great fishing here in Florida Keys and really just about anywhere in Florida this time of the year. Pick a spot, load your kayak and gear up, then hit the water for some line burning fun! There’s nothing better than fishing and learning how to fish a new area. If you aren’t comfortable on your own or would like a little help on the learning curve, hire a guide. Just do yourself a favor and get out there and enjoy yourself. Look forward to catching you all out there!

8 FLORIDA KEYS SEPTEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FLORIDA-KEYS

FACEBOOK.COM/CAMFLORIDAKEYS SEPTEMBER 2022 FLORIDA KEYS 9 SeaTimeBaitCutter.com Don’t let the slip of a salty bait knife ruin your day on the water! Whether off-shore, intercoastal or in the Gulf... Big waves and cutting bait don’t mix... The Sea Time Bait Cutter will make your day safe, enjoyable and more productive

Tackle Shop in the Upper Keys “Come by boat or land” 90515 Old Hwy, Tavernier,

33070 •

The Marathon area enjoyed consistent dolphin (mahi mahi) fishing this summer. If the past few years are any indication, September and October should remain productive, with more midrange 10- to 15-pound fish coming over the rails than small schoolies. The usual assort ment of trolling lures and rigged ballyhoo will take their share of keepers.

The most complete

10 FLORIDA KEYS SEPTEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FLORIDA-KEYS

On the wrecks, we pick away at mutton snappers. They also hold an assortment of amberjacks, jack crevalles and even the occasional African pompano to liven things up.

The best baits are shrimp or silversides or small pieces of ballyhoo.

15-pound fluorocarbon (sometimes even 10- or 12-pound flouro) and Berkley ProSpec 12-pound test main line.

www.anglereddyslivebaitandtackle.com All kinds of Live Bait: Shrimp, Crabs, Pilchards, Goggle Eyes & Pin Fish All local brand Apparel, Tackle, Marine Supplies, Beverages & Snacks

There have been good numbers of blackfin tuna off shore. Most run five to ten pounds this time of year, with the occasional larger fish at the Marathon humps. Trolling and jigging are the preferred meth ods to catch the tuna On the inshore reef and wreck areas, snapper fishing can also be good this time of year. Our water temps are at their highest for the year, in the upper 80’s. The snappers seek cooler waters, so focus your efforts in the 60to 90-foot depths. Typically, the bite is better in the early morning or late afternoon, as the fish are more comfortable eating in low light conditions.

Sargasso mats have been heavy the past few months, and we see no sign of them lightening up. This makes finding the dolphin a bit easier as you can get on a good weed line and work it for miles.

Back to SCHOOL . Back to WORK .

If you’re looking for serious light-tackle action on big fish, you can’t do better than shallow-water fishing for lemon sharks. Most are found in the four- to five-foot depths surrounding shallow flats. This is where they do their hunting. Jack crevalles and bluerunners make good chum and bait for the Septembersharks. and October are great times to get out for spiny lobster. The summer crowds have dispersed, so there’s less pressure to find keepers. If you’re a novice, I highly recommend hiring an experienced guide.

By: Capt. Chris Johnson Bait & FL 305-741-7625 ...you can’t do better than shallow-water fishing for lemon sharks. Most are found in the four- to five-foot depths surrounding shallow flats. This is where they do their hunting.

Yellowtails dominate, with a few straggler mangroves and the occasional mutton mixed in. First and fore most, be sure to take plenty of chum. We use Mojo Oats plus either SnapperUp or YellowtailUp, all from Aquatic Nutrition, mixed together as a slop. One of the benefits of using the Aquatic Nutrition products is they will spur the yellowtails into feeding more ag gressively than they would withMosquitoisidealyourGotnormally. lightwithtackle.Thecombinationsmall,Owner#2hooksBerkleyVanish

— Capt. Chris Johnson | SeaSquared Charters, Marathon FL 305-393-2929 | SeaSquaredCharters.com Back to FISHING

The dolphin are typically found under floating debris and weed lines.

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12 FLORIDA KEYS SEPTEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FLORIDA-KEYS www.USHarbors.com Key Largo, South Sound, FL - Sep 2022 Date High Low AM ft PM ft AM ft PM ft Rise Set Moon 1 Thu 12:41 1.7 1:20 1.8 7:56 0.1 8:23 0.4 6:59 7:41 2 Fri 1:24 1.7 2:13 1.7 8:46 0.1 9:19 0.4 7:00 7:40 3 Sat 2:15 1.6 3:15 1.7 9:46 0.2 10:23 0.5 7:00 7:39 4 Sun 3:17 1.6 4:23 1.7 10:53 0.2 11:33 0.5 7:00 7:37 5 Mon 4:27 1.6 5:33 1.7 12:04 0.2 7:01 7:36 6 Tue 5:41 1.7 6:38 1.8 12:42 0.5 1:11 0.1 7:01 7:35 7 Wed 6:49 1.8 7:36 1.9 1:46 0.4 2:12 0.1 7:02 7:34 8 Thu 7:50 1.9 8:28 2.0 2:44 0.3 3:09 0.0 7:02 7:33 9 Fri 8:45 2.0 9:16 2.1 3:36 0.1 4:01 0.0 7:02 7:32 10 Sat 9:36 2.1 10:01 2.1 4:26 0.1 4:50 0.0 7:03 7:31 11 Sun 10:24 2.1 10:44 2.1 5:13 0.0 5:37 0.0 7:03 7:30 12 Mon 11:10 2.1 11:25 2.0 5:58 0.0 6:23 0.1 7:04 7:29 13 Tue 11:55 2.0 6:43 0.0 7:09 0.2 7:04 7:28 14 Wed 12:06 1.9 12:40 1.9 7:28 0.1 7:55 0.4 7:04 7:27 15 Thu 12:48 1.8 1:25 1.8 8:14 0.2 8:43 0.5 7:05 7:26 16 Fri 1:31 1.7 2:14 1.7 9:03 0.3 9:35 0.6 7:05 7:24 17 Sat 2:17 1.6 3:07 1.6 9:58 0.4 10:33 0.7 7:06 7:23 18 Sun 3:10 1.5 4:06 1.6 10:58 0.5 11:35 0.7 7:06 7:22 19 Mon 4:10 1.5 5:08 1.6 12:00 0.5 7:06 7:21 20 Tue 5:14 1.5 6:06 1.6 12:36 0.7 12:57 0.5 7:07 7:20 21 Wed 6:14 1.6 6:57 1.7 1:30 0.7 1:48 0.5 7:07 7:19 22 Thu 7:07 1.7 7:41 1.8 2:17 0.6 2:33 0.4 7:08 7:18 23 Fri 7:55 1.8 8:22 1.8 2:58 0.5 3:14 0.4 7:08 7:17 24 Sat 8:38 1.9 9:00 1.9 3:36 0.4 3:53 0.3 7:08 7:16 25 Sun 9:20 1.9 9:38 1.9 4:12 0.3 4:31 0.3 7:09 7:14 26 Mon 10:02 2.0 10:16 2.0 4:48 0.2 5:09 0.3 7:09 7:13 27 Tue 10:43 2.0 10:54 1.9 5:25 0.2 5:48 0.3 7:10 7:12 28 Wed 11:26 2.0 11:34 1.9 6:03 0.1 6:30 0.3 7:10 7:11 29 Thu 12:12 2.0 6:46 0.1 7:15 0.4 7:10 7:10 30 Fri 12:17 1.9 1:02 2.0 7:33 0.2 8:05 0.5 7:11 7:09 www.USHarbors.com Islamorada, Florida Bay, FL - Sep 2022 Date High Low AM ft PM ft AM ft PM ft Rise Set Moon 1 Thu 2:00 0.7 2:58 0.6 9:52 0.1 9:34 0.2 7:02 7:42 2 Fri 2:36 0.7 4:05 0.5 10:54 0.1 10:12 0.3 7:02 7:41 3 Sat 3:22 0.8 5:33 0.4 12:08P 0.1 11:00 0.3 7:03 7:40 4 Sun 4:22 0.8 7:14 0.4 1:29 0.1 7:03 7:39 5 Mon 5:40 0.8 8:31 0.4 12:04 0.3 2:48 0.0 7:03 7:38 6 Tue 7:05 0.8 9:24 0.5 1:24 0.3 3:54 0.0 7:04 7:37 7 Wed 8:21 0.9 10:04 0.5 2:41 0.3 4:48 0.0 7:04 7:36 8 Thu 9:25 0.9 10:40 0.6 3:50 0.3 5:32 0.0 7:04 7:35 9 Fri 10:21 0.9 11:13 0.6 4:51 0.2 6:11 0.1 7:05 7:34 10 Sat 11:12 0.9 11:45 0.7 5:47 0.2 6:47 0.1 7:05 7:33 11 Sun 11:59 0.8 6:41 0.1 7:20 0.1 7:06 7:32 12 Mon 12:16 0.7 12:45 0.8 7:32 0.1 7:53 0.2 7:06 7:31 13 Tue 12:47 0.8 1:30 0.7 8:24 0.1 8:26 0.2 7:06 7:29 14 Wed 1:19 0.8 2:17 0.6 9:16 0.1 8:58 0.3 7:07 7:28 15 Thu 1:53 0.8 3:07 0.5 10:10 0.1 9:32 0.3 7:07 7:27 16 Fri 2:31 0.8 4:08 0.5 11:12 0.2 10:08 0.3 7:07 7:26 17 Sat 3:17 0.7 5:34 0.4 12:23P 0.2 10:55 0.4 7:08 7:25 18 Sun 4:16 0.7 7:24 0.4 1:41 0.2 7:08 7:24 19 Mon 5:32 0.7 8:33 0.5 12:06 0.4 2:53 0.2 7:08 7:23 20 Tue 6:53 0.7 9:09 0.5 1:32 0.4 3:50 0.2 7:09 7:22 21 Wed 7:59 0.7 9:37 0.5 2:43 0.4 4:33 0.2 7:09 7:21 22 Thu 8:52 0.8 10:01 0.6 3:39 0.3 5:06 0.2 7:10 7:20 23 Fri 9:37 0.8 10:26 0.6 4:26 0.3 5:34 0.2 7:10 7:19 24 Sat 10:19 0.8 10:51 0.7 5:08 0.3 5:59 0.2 7:10 7:18 25 Sun 10:59 0.8 11:17 0.7 5:49 0.2 6:23 0.2 7:11 7:17 26 Mon 11:41 0.8 11:43 0.8 6:29 0.2 6:49 0.2 7:11 7:15 27 Tue 12:24 0.7 7:11 0.1 7:17 0.2 7:11 7:14 28 Wed 12:11 0.8 1:09 0.7 7:55 0.1 7:47 0.3 7:12 7:13 29 Thu 12:42 0.8 1:59 0.6 8:44 0.1 8:19 0.3 7:12 7:12 30 Fri 1:17 0.8 2:57 0.6 9:38 0.1 8:55 0.3 7:13 7:11 TIDE CHART TIDE CHARTKEY LARGO SEPTEMBER 2022 ISLAMORADA SEPTEMBER 2022

FACEBOOK.COM/CAMFLORIDAKEYS SEPTEMBER 2022 FLORIDA KEYS 13 www.USHarbors.com Key Colony Beach, FL - Sep 2022 Date High Low AM ft PM ft AM ft PM ft Rise Set Moon 1 Thu 12:32 2.3 1:17 1.9 6:53 0.3 6:54 0.7 7:04 7:43 2 Fri 1:12 2.3 2:14 1.8 7:51 0.3 7:40 0.8 7:04 7:42 3 Sat 2:00 2.3 3:21 1.6 8:57 0.3 8:36 0.9 7:04 7:41 4 Sun 3:01 2.3 4:41 1.5 10:10 0.3 9:45 0.9 7:05 7:40 5 Mon 4:14 2.3 6:02 1.5 11:23 0.2 10:59 0.9 7:05 7:39 6 Tue 5:32 2.4 7:08 1.7 12:30 0.2 7:05 7:38 7 Wed 6:44 2.5 8:00 1.8 12:09 0.8 1:27 0.1 7:06 7:37 8 Thu 7:48 2.7 8:44 2.0 1:11 0.6 2:17 0.1 7:06 7:36 9 Fri 8:44 2.7 9:24 2.2 2:08 0.4 3:02 0.1 7:06 7:35 10 Sat 9:34 2.7 10:02 2.4 3:02 0.3 3:44 0.2 7:07 7:34 11 Sun 10:22 2.7 10:38 2.5 3:52 0.2 4:24 0.3 7:07 7:33 12 Mon 11:07 2.5 11:15 2.5 4:41 0.2 5:03 0.4 7:08 7:32 13 Tue 11:52 2.3 11:52 2.5 5:30 0.2 5:42 0.6 7:08 7:31 14 Wed 12:37 2.1 6:18 0.3 6:21 0.7 7:08 7:30 15 Thu 12:31 2.4 1:23 1.9 7:09 0.4 7:02 0.9 7:09 7:29 16 Fri 1:14 2.3 2:14 1.7 8:04 0.5 7:47 1.0 7:09 7:28 17 Sat 2:02 2.2 3:13 1.6 9:06 0.6 8:42 1.1 7:09 7:27 18 Sun 3:00 2.1 4:24 1.5 10:15 0.7 9:49 1.1 7:10 7:26 19 Mon 4:08 2.1 5:40 1.6 11:24 0.7 10:57 1.1 7:10 7:24 20 Tue 5:18 2.1 6:41 1.7 12:22P 0.7 11:58 1.0 7:10 7:23 21 Wed 6:21 2.2 7:26 1.8 1:08 0.6 7:11 7:22 22 Thu 7:14 2.3 8:03 2.0 12:50 0.9 1:46 0.6 7:11 7:21 23 Fri 8:00 2.4 8:37 2.1 1:35 0.8 2:20 0.6 7:12 7:20 24 Sat 8:42 2.5 9:09 2.3 2:16 0.7 2:52 0.5 7:12 7:19 25 Sun 9:23 2.6 9:42 2.4 2:56 0.6 3:25 0.5 7:12 7:18 26 Mon 10:04 2.6 10:13 2.5 3:36 0.4 3:57 0.6 7:13 7:17 27 Tue 10:46 2.5 10:46 2.6 4:17 0.3 4:31 0.6 7:13 7:16 28 Wed 11:29 2.4 11:20 2.6 5:00 0.2 5:06 0.7 7:13 7:15 29 Thu 12:15P 2.2 11:59 2.6 5:46 0.2 5:44 0.8 7:14 7:14 30 Fri 1:06 2.0 6:37 0.2 6:26 0.9 7:14 7:13 www.USHarbors.com Key West, FL - Sep 2022 Date High Low AM ft PM ft AM ft PM ft Rise Set Moon 1 Thu 1:21 1.9 2:19 1.5 7:45 0.3 7:27 0.7 7:07 7:46 2 Fri 1:57 2.0 3:26 1.3 8:47 0.2 8:05 0.8 7:07 7:45 3 Sat 2:43 2.0 4:54 1.1 10:01 0.2 8:53 0.9 7:08 7:44 4 Sun 3:43 2.1 6:35 1.1 11:22 0.2 9:57 0.9 7:08 7:43 5 Mon 5:01 2.1 7:52 1.1 12:41P 0.1 11:17 0.9 7:08 7:42 6 Tue 6:26 2.2 8:45 1.2 1:47 0.1 7:09 7:41 7 Wed 7:42 2.3 9:25 1.4 12:34 0.8 2:41 0.1 7:09 7:40 8 Thu 8:46 2.4 10:01 1.5 1:43 0.7 3:25 0.1 7:09 7:39 9 Fri 9:42 2.4 10:34 1.7 2:44 0.5 4:04 0.2 7:10 7:38 10 Sat 10:33 2.4 11:06 1.9 3:40 0.4 4:40 0.3 7:10 7:37 11 Sun 11:20 2.3 11:37 2.0 4:34 0.3 5:13 0.4 7:10 7:36 12 Mon 12:06 2.1 5:25 0.3 5:46 0.5 7:11 7:35 13 Tue 12:08 2.1 12:51 1.9 6:17 0.2 6:19 0.6 7:11 7:34 14 Wed 12:40 2.1 1:38 1.7 7:09 0.3 6:51 0.7 7:11 7:33 15 Thu 1:14 2.1 2:28 1.5 8:03 0.3 7:25 0.9 7:12 7:32 16 Fri 1:52 2.0 3:29 1.3 9:05 0.4 8:01 0.9 7:12 7:31 17 Sat 2:38 2.0 4:55 1.2 10:16 0.5 8:48 1.0 7:13 7:30 18 Sun 3:37 1.9 6:45 1.2 11:34 0.5 9:59 1.1 7:13 7:29 19 Mon 4:53 1.9 7:54 1.2 12:46P 0.5 11:25 1.1 7:13 7:28 20 Tue 6:14 1.9 8:30 1.3 1:43 0.5 7:14 7:27 21 Wed 7:20 2.0 8:58 1.4 12:36 1.0 2:26 0.5 7:14 7:25 22 Thu 8:13 2.1 9:22 1.6 1:32 0.9 2:59 0.5 7:14 7:24 23 Fri 8:58 2.2 9:47 1.7 2:19 0.8 3:27 0.5 7:15 7:23 24 Sat 9:40 2.2 10:12 1.8 3:01 0.7 3:52 0.5 7:15 7:22 25 Sun 10:20 2.2 10:38 2.0 3:42 0.6 4:16 0.5 7:15 7:21 26 Mon 11:02 2.1 11:04 2.1 4:22 0.4 4:42 0.6 7:16 7:20 27 Tue 11:45 2.0 11:32 2.2 5:04 0.3 5:10 0.7 7:16 7:19 28 Wed 12:30 1.9 5:48 0.2 5:40 0.7 7:17 7:18 29 Thu 12:03 2.3 1:20 1.7 6:37 0.1 6:12 0.8 7:17 7:17 30 Fri 12:38 2.3 2:18 1.5 7:31 0.1 6:48 0.9 7:17 7:16 TIDE CHARTTIDE CHARTKEY COLONY BEACH SEPTEMBER 2022 KEY WEST SEPTEMBER 2022 Looking for the perfect FL Keys property to get the most out of your boat? WE CAN HELP! 11400 Overseas Hwy, Ste. 105, Marathon, FL 33050 - www.SeafarerRealty.com Ginger Perreault, Ginger@SeafarerRealty.comP.A.305-731-8148 Michele Michele@SeafarerRealty.comSafos,MRP724-691-6613 Alexia Mann,GRIAlexia@SeafarerRealty.comBroker/Owner305.209.5166 Milly Cruz, Milly@SeafarerRealty.comP.A.305-363-8869 Danial Marrs, Danial@SeafarerRealty.comPSA305-767-3495

— It’s a Wild World - Get Out There | FishmanDan@paddlinandfishin

6. Cast carefully to avoid hooking a bird in flight or being snared on trees, bridge pilings etc.

tation in the water. Walk the dog style top water plugs swing more widely with increased action when tied to a loop knot. Same is true for many rubber bait selections like shad and paddle tails. If you fish only with artificial lures, you’ll need to be really good at it to catch a lot of fish. Presentation and ca dence are ultra-important when trying to trick a fish into believing that your plastic imitation is the real thing. With practice this becomes easier over time. If you haven’t mastered this technique, try using some live or dead bait. Obvi ously dead bait is simple to store and use but live bait requires some way to keep it alive and in your kayak. It’s quite simple, place a sheetrock bucket or pre-designed bait well in the rear well of your craft and simply add a battery powered bait bubbler. Many states now require that you use circle hooks with live or dead bait. When you feel a fish on the line, simply pull back slowly until you feel the real weight of the fish and at that point the hook has come up out of their stomach and slid into the corner of the fishes mouth. Only then should you pull hard to set the hook. Try some of these suggestions and catch more fish!

5. Release the bird (if healthy) by placing it on the ground near the water and allowing it to take off.

2. Reel the bird in slowly and lift it from the water using a hoop net. Even a large pelican weighs only 4-8 pounds

14 FLORIDA KEYS SEPTEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FLORIDA-KEYS

By: Dan Carns

3. Cover bait buckets and take unused bait home.

8. Sponsored by Friends of the Pelicans, Inc. More detailed information can be found at friendsofthepelicans.facebook.com/

3. Grasp the bird by the head just behind the eyes and fold the wings against the body. For pelicans, hold the beak, keeping the mouth slightly open so it can breathe. Cover the bird’s head with a cloth to keep it calm.

7. Help others learn what to do when they accidentally hook a bird. It’s pretty easy, once you know how.

6. If the bird has swallowed the hook or is severely injured, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator from the list at MyFWC.com/unhook.

4. Dispose of fishing line in a monofilament recycling bin or cut into small pieces and place in the trash.

Friends of the Pelicans

— Photos by Carol Cassels

1. Don’t feed the birds, which teaches them to approach where they are more likely to be hooked.

Improve Your Catch

4. Never pull the hook out but carefully push the end through the skin, cut off the barb and back the hook out using pliers or clippers. If the bird is entangled, remove all line.

How else can you help a seabird or wading bird?

2. Dispose of filleted bones where birds can’t get them—in a trash can with lid or at home. Bones of a filleted fish will become lodged in or tear throats, stomachs and intestines leading to the death of that bird .

1. Wear safety glasses and enlist a partner for help.

5. Don’t leave your line unattended.

There are a number of ways in which to increase your catch rate. Some are simple and cost little while others may take up some extra time and cost more. If you are new to fishing, you will be automatical ly drawn to terminal tackle. These are products that rapidly and easily help you secure hooks and lures to your line but if you ask around or check online, you’ll find that experienced anglers are tying directly off to their tackle and us ing inline knots to tie leaders to main lines. Barrel and snap swivels are fine if you’re fishing with spinners and spoons or fishing heavy gear but for most of us the lures are not made to have some thing heavy added to the front and fish don’t like seeing anything moving unnaturally in front of their prey. Learn to tie inline knots between your main line and a fluorocarbon leader. I know many of you will balk at the price of fluorocarbon leader material, but the stuff is basically invisible under water. Many species of fish are leader shy, like snook, so the price pays for itself when you begin to catch more fish! There are several great inline knots so go on-line, find one that you can figure out and tie it until you remember how to tie it off-line. Another knot you should have in your arsenal is a loop knot. Many lures and most hooks benefit from having a loop knot tied to them as it allows the lure/bait to have a more natural presen Even if you precautionarytakesteps to avoid it, sometimes you might hook a bird by accident. That’s when it’s important to remember—don’t cut the line and let the bird fly away with it attached. This will lead to entanglement, resulting in death of that bird and possibly others as well. Instead, follow these simple steps to unhook the bird: Reel. Remove. Release.

•

• Engrave your driver’s license number or make a distinctive marking on your valuable property for identification purposes.

MONROE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

Crime Stoppers offers a reward for the arrest of anyone in a felony criminal case. If you see anything suspicious, call the Sheriff’s Office immediately! It is our job to check out suspicious activity. Your call may be the one that helps us catch the bad guys!

Install motion sensor lights. Make sure areas around the boat are well lighted.

•

• Install surveillance cameras and make sure they will capture the face of an intruder.

• If the boat is on a trailer, chain the rims together or boot one of the wheels to prevent the boat and trailer from being stolen.

•

If you see something you think may be suspicious. Call CrimeStoppers with any crime tips: 1-866-471-8477 Submit tips online at www.floridakeyscrimestoppers.com

• Install bolt locks on the engine or put extra-long engine bolts on and bend the ends.

Cameras are often installed too high and only capture the top of a suspects head or the brim of the hat he is wearing.

• Take pictures and record serial numbers if available.

• If you are gone for an extended period, call your local Sheriff’s Office substation. Our deputies will keep an eye on your property while you are away.

CALL 911 IF A CRIME IS TAKING PLACE

• Whether on a trailer or in a canal, make sure your boat can be seen by neighbors and/or deputies patrolling the neighborhood.

• Keep valuable electronics in a secure location. It might be a hassle, but it will same you thousands of dollars in the long run.

•

• Keep a trailer hitch lock on at all times.

Install a boat alarm. Alarms are very effective at preventing equipment and boat thefts.

Remove the steering wheel if the boat won’t be used for a long time.

Back the boat close to a house, wall, or other stationary object.

• Destroy the threads on one bolt so the nut can’t be removed.

Remove the keys from the boat, if its is on a lift, turn the breaker off in the house to disable it.

MARINE THEFT PREVENTION

Disconnect the batteries to disable the trim / tilt function. Keep the engine down, touching the ground so the lower unit can’t be removed.

• Install a GPS tracking device on your boat and/or engines.

• Don’t leave fishing and diving equipment unattended outside. It only takes a thief a minute - literally - to take it.

By: Capt. Chad Carney Coastal Angler print ed my “Favorite SW FL Wrecks to Spear fish” in Dec. 2020. You can still see my top 6 by clicking e-Magazines and choose your area, Naples to Sarasota, scroll down to archives, where all articles since late 2016 appear. I’ve been revisiting more mid dle range sites and some are shallower than 132 ft. Here’s my next 6 SW FL Wrecks.

5. Skyway Bridge Wreckage - is 58.5nm offshore Boca Grande in 170 ft. In May 1980 the freighter Summit Venture collided into the 200 ft high Skyway Bridge which spanned Tampa Bay. 35 people died in their vehicles with a Greyhound bus. On my dive I could see the bridge’s steel and concrete in very clear water, but I was maxed out on depth and dove the top 100 ft for AJs.

16 FLORIDA KEYS SEPTEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FLORIDA-KEYS

4. USCGC Mohawk - a 165 ft cutter sunk 7-2-2012, 40nm off Fort Myers Bch. in 90 ft. This wreck is attracting lots of marine life due to its size, durability and distance offshore. Looking forward to diving this ship.

articles

3. D6W & D6E - Artificial Reefs with fiberglass boat molds 31.3nm off Venice in 109 ft. Because of the distance and little fanfare this site is good. I shot a 30# gag in the center, and the E area is very good.

ries

More Wrecks to Spearfish

Carney - Diving Instructor & Journalist mobile: 727-423-7775 | e-mail: chad.carney@yahoo.com www.floridaskindiver.com | www.deeperblue.com/beginners-guide-spearfishingwww.facebook.com/floridaskindiver • Complete Boat & RV Detailing • Ceramic Coating • Bottom Maintenance & Painting • Monthly Washes & Boat Care • Pressure DetailingTheKeys@gmail.comWashing Licensed & Insured • Locally Owned & Operated Servicing Key Largo to Key West!

lots

Course for Freedivers.” Shoot straight, Capt. Chad —

1. Bay Ronto - sunk in 110 ft of water in a 1919 hurricane 31.5 n. miles off Boca Grande. In 1972 it was my first deep wreck. It’s broken into 5 major pieces now and the years have produced AJs, gags, blacks and mangroves.

2. Fantastico - a Honduran Freighter sunk in the 1993 No Name Storm, 47nm off Fort Myers Beach in 115 ft of water. I dove the 2nd trip there with a bunch of wreck/tech divers who swore it was the Roatan Express. I dropped on a big cobia which led me to the bow where I shot him in front of “Fantastico” painted the size of a bus!

6. Long Island - a shrimp boat 47.9nm off Sarasota in a depth of 163 ft. I 1998 & 99 this wreck was upright & intact with the name welded on the bow. We shot gags, blacks and AJs. Coastal Angler’s Outdoors Section - “Diving & Spearfishing” has 13 pages with some great sto written by their Editorial Staff, which includes by my good friend Sheri Daye. my surprise found 2 of Pg 12 “Fall Spearfishing Pg 9 “Spearfishing Captain Chad

mine.

in Florida” and

A nd just like that, another summer month has come and gone. I can’t begin to explain how much fun I’ve had the past few months. I’ve gotten some much needed sunshine, I’ve been able to fish nearly every weekend, and the time spent with my amazing friends has been longHavingoverdue.just gone through Mini Lobster Season, this has been one of the busiest times of the year down in The Keys. This year marks the 200th Anniversary of the first settlement in Key West. So many people make the trip every year, but this year was extra busy. The restaurants and marinas have had so much business and that’s a great thing to see! It’s also been awesome seeing pictures and posts of how many people limited out on Spiney Lobsters. The winds have been pretty bad making it difficult to lobster, however I still limited out both days during Mini Season so I can’t complain! For us anglers, it’s over now as the Commercial Lobstermen are making their way in. Fortunately for a lot of captains, the weed lines were everywhere, mak ing Mahi pretty easy to catch. Since it’s been windy, the seas have been

FACEBOOK.COM/CAMFLORIDAKEYS SEPTEMBER 2022 FLORIDA KEYS 17

Busiest Time of the Year

By: Beth Steele

— Beth Steele | CEO of Hooker Booker fishing@thehookerbooker.com | FB/IG/TW: @hookerbookerllc

pretty rough, making it challenging taking the trip offshore. I’m always up for a challenge, so becoming cre ative has been option B on some of the rougher days. When the seas get too rough to travel very far offshore, I like to target different fish so I don’t waste the trip or a fishing day. I’ve done some bridge fishing and a little deep dropping. I’ve caught a ton of Snappers, Triple Tail, Tile Fish, a few Barracuda, Rosies, and Snowy Grouper. I’m excited for the winds to die down so I can get back out on the Sword Grounds. Here fishy, fishy!

— Captain Travis M. Freeman @steadyfishingcharters.com

Everglades and The Backcountry

Let’s not forget how peaceful and mind bending the Everglades and Back country waters can be. Just a simple cruise through the beautiful mangrove islands and seeing the sunrise and sunsets along the coast of the Everglades, is more than therapeutic for most, so come on over! Make sure you give us a call and let’s get you out on the water for a fishing trip of a lifetime or just a simple dolphin and shelling excursion making memories that last a lifetime.

Facebook: Steady Fishing, an Everglades Tradition Instagram: Steady Fishing Charters

By: Capt. Travis Freeman

18 FLORIDA KEYS SEPTEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FLORIDA-KEYS

H ello fromCaptaineveryone,TravisSteady Fish Charters in Ever glades City, to update my fellow anglers on what all the big fish in the 10,000 islands area are biting on and when they are feed ing the most this time of the year. During the late summer and early fall, as we head into Sep tember and October, the water is still really warm, however, it will start to cool down very fast over the fall and winter months and get saltier and saltier in the back country of the Everglades, so this means more and more redfish, trout, tarpon and snook will be moving into the darker shallower backcountry bays looking for warmer waters and moving through creeks as well looking for anything from live white bait, shrimp and crabs to feed on. However, this time of the year, I like to cast a soft 3” paddle tail with a red or white 1/8oz jig head fish ing anywhere from 2ft to 5ft of water. As far as plugs, always a sinking black back mirror lure 3 to 4” and of course live shrimp are always a great bait to use both in the backcountry and the near shores of the Gulf. I have also recently started catching more and more triple tail and permit as the water gets cooler on the Gulf side and along the near shores. Both a low rising tide and a high falling tide have been very productive for myself and my clients.

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Many Caribbean islanders, South and Central Americans love to eat barra cuda even though they are aware of the risk. The way they minimize the risk is they lay the barracuda out on the filet table, if flies come to it they’ll eat it, if the flies don’t come to it they don’t eat it. They are sure that flies can detect Ciguatera. So, if a barracuda is a “trash fish” and dangerous to eat, why is it the most popular fish to mount? I think I have the answer.

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Holes

By: Capt. Joel Brandenburg

*Barracuda season is open year-round and in Florida you can harvest 2 per person and up to 6 per boat per day with a slot size of 15 inches min and 36 inches max with only one that can exceed 36 inches. We typically find them over wrecks, reefs, bridges ledges, flats, offshore weed lines and just randomly.

*Barracuda fight as hard and fast as a wahoo or kingfish. It can dig like an amber jack or cobia. It can jump like a tarpon or snook and when it strikes it smashes its prey/bait as hard as a mahi or tuna. So basically, what I’m trying to express is that a barracuda can put on one heck of a show. After an angler experiences a long fight with a big barracuda, they feel a sense of accomplish ment.*Barracuda is beautiful and scary specimen. The markings and colorful hues of a barracuda are one Mother Nature’s most beautiful works of art. On the other hand, a barracuda is a natural born killer. Built for speed and power with a mouth only a mother could love. Scraggly long sharp serrated teeth. Whether you see the barracuda under water with a mask or in your boat up close and personal especially for the first time it’s an impressive creature.

*Barracuda are such a celebrated fish, not only is it the most mounted fish, for years sport teams are named barracuda, sports cars, and even famous songs about barracuda my favorite by Heart. If you’ve never hooked and landed a big barracuda take the barracuda challenge and go hook one!! — For a charter with Captain Joel or Jojo Brandenburg of Ana Banana Fishing Company in Marathon Florida Keys call cell 813-267-4401 or office 305-395-4212 or visit www.marathonkeyfishingcharters.com or visit us in per son at Ana Banana Marina located at 11699 Overseas Hwy Marathon Florida Keys. Look for the big yellow Ana Banana sign with antlers around it.

*Barracuda will hit ar tificial, live and dead bait. My favorite artificial bait is a green cuda tube. My favorite live bait is mullet. My favorite dead bait is the other half of the gamefish the cuda just slashed in half on my hook. They are very plentiful and fairly easy to trick into biting your bait.

Capt. Joel’s Fishin

Hardly anyone writes Barracudaaboutfish ing. Gray Taxidermy is one of the world’s largest taxidermy companies, they’ve told me that the most popular fish that people mount is barra cuda. Barracuda isn’t considered a true game fish by most in the an gling community, most look at it as more of a trash fish. You shouldn’t eat barracuda due to the risk of contracting Cig uatera which is a blood borne illness from eat ing poisoned fish who eat certain reef fish. Scientists say if you get Ciguatera, it’s like having Muscu lar Dystrophy for life with no real cure. Thanks, I’ll pass on eating barracuda!

22 FLORIDA KEYS SEPTEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FLORIDA-KEYS

Blackfin are often the by-catch and a most welcome one at that! I use the “run & gun” technique when targeting mahi. I head offshore and begin looking for birds that are diving. I also keep my eye out for any prominent weed lines or types of floaters - wood pallets, buckets, literally any type of debris. I run the boat until I can get under the birds or around the debris. I slow to about 7-9 knots and troll around the area. I use anywhere from 30–50 pound tackle, and troll both pink and green rattle jet lures, as well as skirted rigged ballyhoo. Tuna and mahi will both surface and stay deep so I always make sure to run a #6 planer in addition to my surface lines to get my baits down deeper. After a few minutes, and sometimes just a few seconds I am usually on the mahi! When I hook up with the first mahi, I always keep it in the water for a bit just in case a school of them are around. If and when you see the fol lowing school throw a few chunks of live bait out to get them all frenzied up! Talk about excitement! Nothing like catching a large school of dolphin in just minutes time. When catching tuna and mahi I’m usually anywhere from 500-1,000 feet. The perfect depths for some deep dropping if you have the extra time and are into changing things up that is. On our deep drop trips, I use a 10-foot chicken rig made from 100 lb. monofilament. I prefer 3 hook rigs using 8/0 circle hooks with squid spaced about 2-3 feet apart. Depending on the current that day I use 3-5 pounds of lead. Drift over any good structure you see, making sure your weight is heavy enough to hold bottom. You just might get your chance to land some amazing tasting tile fish, as well as a good variety of snapper and grouper.

Sure, we always hear about the famous Mahi Mahi, with their vibrant green color and yellow/blue highlights, and the amazing fish tacos they make, but what about these black fin tuna? We know about and might have even caught the prized gamefish…those massive bluefins that easily reach up to 500 pounds, or the yellowfin tuna’s, with their higher population being in the Pacific Ocean.

Tuna on the Summer

is still among us here across the Florida Keys and what comes along with it? Some fabulous offshore fishing! The summertime bite is still on fire here and with that brings an abundance of Mahi Mahi and Tuna! Fishing the deeper waters in the summertime is key, as we often see water tem peratures rise as high as 87 degrees F. turning on the offshore bite. Of ten the summertime brings calmer seas along with it which makes for a great day of mahi and tuna fishing offshore. The sound of screaming drag and the dance show you get when you are tight with a mahi is nothing short of a good adrenaline rush.

Just don’t forget to bleed them out immediately after catching them! The goal here is to only cut deep enough to sever the main artery located just un der the skin in the mid-line. The meat will be much higher in quality when it comes to preparing them whether you eat the meat raw or if you prefer to lightly sear them like I do.

By: Heather Born

tROLL!

FWC has recently closed blue line tile as of July 26, 2022 – May 1, @heatherborn_2fish2023.

Blackfin, however, are abundant here in the Florida Keys and is what I like to call our “go to sushi” when it comes to tuna here in the Keys! Blackfin are one of the smallest of the tuna species, and typically range anywhere from 7-30 pounds here in the Florida Keys. They make great table fare when cooked correctly!

The Main Attraction Summer Fishing camp participants holding up the variety of fish they caught. The catch includes mahi dolphin, rosefish, blackfin tuna, queen snapper, and a barrel fish.

Savannah Francis landed this 56” Mahi whiletrolling in Marathon, FL on “All Or Nothing”with Capt. Emanuell Souza of Two Conchs Jim Johnson caught this nice tripletail aboard the Main Attraction

If you have a catch to brag about send your picture and caption to: flkeys@coastalanglermagazine.com

Florida Keys

John Haggerty, holding a nice smoker kingfish, caught on Main One.

Heather Born with a beautiful Golden Tile Fish

Father and son duo, Vinnie and Nick Yeager holdingup a stud mahi dolphin. The Melbourne residents checked the dolphin off their bucket list.

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A couple months ago I took time off from trying to find a lit erary agent for my fourth mys tery novel that won’t sell unless I kill someone (can you feel the frustration?) and went fishing. I rounded a corner into the backcountry and as I turned left, it felt like the boat wanted to go right. The wheel was fighting me a bit, so I looked behind me and to my surprise, the Power Pole was deploying all by itself. Well, Mur phy was deploying it. Down it went, just about half-way. I stopped the boat, hit the button, and a nice stream of hydraulic oil shot out of the transom, but the thing didn’t budge. I wasn’t entirely surprised it broke. The Power Pole worked flawlessly for almost seven years. Fast-forward to a couple weeks ago. I had the Power Pole fixed while I was up in Jersey fishing then came back. We got everything ready and set off on a day chasing fish around. Boat started right up, no problem. Then things got weird.

First, the front livewell pump started screeching like it was caught in a trap and trying to call its mother. I popped the canister off and believe it or not, a half-chewed Flavor-Ice wrapper was in the high-speed intake line. I snapped the thing back together and it worked. I thought, “Murphy and his frozen treats.” After once more leaving the shrimp-less bait dock (Marina will go unmentioned), I hit the button for the GPS. Then hit it again. Noth ing. So, I checked around the boat, pulled the throttle back and stopped forward motion, then hit the Power Pole button. Then hit it again. Nothing. The phrase “Murphy’’ rang in my head along with thoughts of money for the repair guy go ing over the side, and the image of the gorilla in the old sam sonite commercial smashing suitcases. I gave myself a moment to regroup, and like a good Jersey transplant and army vet, I thought “if at first the but ton doesn’t work, mash it harder.” I did just that and voila’! The power pole goes down, but only a little. I mash it again, twice this time, and ‘Bob’s your uncle,” the thing does as advertised, setting itself automatically. Pleased with my mechanical acumen, I round the console and open the front hatch. Tracing the wires from the GPS to the fuse panel, a voice in my head says “red wire off, must be bad.” Shut up, Murphy, I got this. I plug it back in, go back around the console, hit the GPS button and again, voila’, it works. Will this utter display of knowledge and skill ever cease? Is it too early to celebrate with a beer? Then another voice in my head said “remember, pride really does come before the fall.” I went back around the console and before closing the hatch, I scanned the ...if my Skeeter’s non-skid wasn’t the “skin-shredding nonskid from hell,” I might have fallen to my knees, arms outstretched, and wailed ...

By: Capt. Tim Ramsey area under the console for any thing abnormal. That’s when I noticed the cable for the trim tab switch hanging freely, a smear of dried silicone on the tip, and two tiny electrodes protruding from the slots at the end. Not good. I realized that behind the switch on the console, there was noth ing holding this cable on, just the silicone against the motherboard/ touch-sensitive pad/ expensive whatever you call it. Did my pow er pole guy “Samsonite Gorilla” do his thing when he fixed the power pole? Did I knock it off while returning the first aid kit to its spot under the console last trip (yes, on top of everything else, I’m accident prone), or was it Murphy? I went back around the console and turned the engine off, then back on. No power went to the trim tabs. As if I really expected any. Right? I asked myself if Murphy was real or just frustration and the innate need to assign blame for such misfortune but if indeed the latter was true, the only course of action to rectify the situation was to punch myself in the face, and that was not an option. There was fish ing to do. Put it behind you, go catch a snook. At least that’s what I toldWemyself.pulled up to a patch of hard bottom near a small island in search of permit. Engine off, jack plate up, engine tilted out, we drifted slowly to ward the target area. I hopped on the bow and deployed the trusty trolling motor. Went to the console, hit the breaker, the remote came on, I dialed-up to four on the trolling motor speed, hit the button and off we went. Some thing big broke water nearby. Better investigate. I hit the left turn button. Then I hit it again. Nothing. I tried right. Then tried right again. Nothing. In that moment, if my Skeeter’s non-skid wasn’t the “skin-shredding nonskid from hell,” I might have fallen to my knees, arms outstretched, and wailed “is there anything that isn’t tainted?” After all, doing the Charleton Heston, Planet of the Apes (with a Jersey twist) “damn yous. Damn yous all to hell” would be ridiculous considering it would be cursing inanimate objects. Or does Murphy animate them? Instead of going insane, I lifted the trolling motor from the slot and steered it by hand from the top. Good to go. Mayhem averted. Fish were caught. Merriment was had. Adult beverages were consumed. Some days you’re forced to adapt. Days later, after about ten YouTube videos, I have a new trim tab switch and new trim tab steering box on the workbench. Well, like I said before, “Murphy wouldn’t be Murphy if Murphy wasn’t Murphy.” Wish me luck. See you out there!t

MURPHY’S LAW

Ispoke a few months ago about Murphy’s Law as it applied to fishing. Well, it seems Mur phy and I have a close, personal relationship. I don’t think he likes me. He knows I’m versed in col loquialism, you know, “A fool and his money” and “don’t count your chickens” and so on. I even made one of my own. It’s nonsense, but somehow appropriate. “Murphy wouldn’t be Murphy if Murphy wasn’t Murphy.”

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The first pink-tagged bass was caught by Florida angler Dale Dew from Lake Griffin on May 22. Florida angler RJ Crawford caught the second pink-tagged bass from Newnans Lake on June 11. Both anglers were awarded $5,000 Bass Pro gift cards and $1,000 AFTCO gift cards. They will also be entered in a drawing for an additional $10,000, which will be awarded at a ceremony this fall.

With a deadline of Sept. 30, eight tagged largemouths worth thousands of dollars are still swimming in Florida waters.In celebration of Season 10 of FWC’s TrophyCatch big bass program, FWC tagged 10 largemouth bass with bright pink tags in Florida lakes. Just two of those pink-tagged largemouths had been caught as of presstime, so eight are still out there waiting for anglers to catch them and collect thousands of dollars worth of gift cards.

14 FLORIDA SEPTEMBER 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

The eight remaining pink-tagged bass are still swimming in the following Florida waterbodies: Lake George, Lake Talquin, Lake Walk-in-Water, Tenoroc Fish Management Area, Lake Trafford, Lake Istokpoga, Lake Rousseau and Johns Lake. With the 10-Tag promotion ending Sept. 30, FWC is dropping hints by way of online maps showing the area where each of the remaining bass were tagged. These new tagging maps of the remaining lakes could lead lucky anglers to the pink-taggedThroughbass.Florida bass telemetry and tagging studies, FWC biologists have found that where a largemouth bass is tagged and released can frequently coincide with where an angler catches the same bass weeks, months or even yearsDewlater.caught his 10-Tag bass within yards of where the fish was released with its pink tag in Lake Griffin. Of course, these hints come with a caveat: while bass can be predictable, there are many exceptions to their typical home range patterns and some bass are not homebodies at all. In contrast to Dew’s catch, the second reported 10-Tag bass caught by RJ Crawford in Newnans Lake was more than 3 miles from where it was tagged. These hints don’t eliminate water in which a 10-Tag bass might be found but should be treated as higher-probability areas. View each of the ranges on the maps located on the 10-Tag Celebration web page. For more information, go www.trophycatchflorida.com.to Bass Worth Thousands in Lakes

Eight Tagged

Still Swim

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM SEPTEMBER 2022 FLORIDA 15

The grant program is open to new or existing freshwater and/or saltwater fishing clubs or teams at public, private and charter schools throughout Florida. To be considered for the grant, school fishing clubs or teams must have a minimum of five members and be represented by a school faculty member or parent who will follow the provided instructor’s manual.Thedeadline for submitting applications is Sept. 16, 2022 at 5 p.m. The application can be found online at MyFWC.com/SFC by scrolling down to “Florida’s R3 Fishing Grant Program.” Applicants can complete the form online or download the application to submit by mail or e-mail. Submit the downloaded applications to R3Fishing@MyFWC.com or mail them to: FWC’s Division of Freshwater Fisheries Management Attn: School Fishing Club Program Grant 620 S. Meridian St., Tallahassee, FL 32399. The 2022-23 School Fishing Club Program is supported by partners including Mud Hole Custom Tackle, Pure Fishing, Coastal Conservation Association and Baitstick Fishing. For more information, contact Brandon Stys at Brandon.Stys@MyFWC.com.

The Florida Sport Fish Restoration R3 Fishing Grant will award up to 40 high school fishing clubs or teams $500 to assist with club expenses and the purchase of fishing licenses or gear for participants. Participating clubs and teams will receive an updated educational curriculum comprised of lessons and activities on fisheries conservation and resource management, plus a chance to win prizes by completing the program’s Conservation Project.“The School Fishing Club program is an important program for teaching the next generation of anglers about ethical angling and conservation in Florida,” said Director of Marine Fisheries Management Jessica McCawley. “I look forward to seeing the hard work and creativity each club puts into their conservation project activities each year to help preserve the health and quality of aquatic habitats.”

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B ack-to-school season is underway and Florida parents, teachers and school staff can apply for funding to support school fishing clubs for students. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) 2022-23 School Fishing Club Program, previously named the High School Fishing Program, offers school fishing clubs or teams the opportunity to apply for the Florida R3 Fishing Grant. The application period is open until Sept. 16. This grant program is focused on engaging youth anglers to ensure the future of fishing in Florida.

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Apply for a Grant to Support School Fishing Clubs

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• Search in a Pattern: Some divers search in a grid by swimming a straight line out from the boat and then moving sideways 5 or 10 yards before returning to the boat in a straight line. This way you’ll always be looking at fresh bottom.

• Be Sure to Hydrate and keep yourself greased up with sunscreen. Also, know the seasons, limits and safety regulations for the area you’re scallop hunting.

TIPS FOR BETTER SCALLOPING By CAM Staff Charters.FishingGrassRockofcourtesyPhoto

• Hunt the Slack Tides: Finding scallops is generally easiest on a slack tide during calm days when currents are minimal. When the water is still, seagrass stands up straight, and it’s easier to spot scallops at the base of the grass.•Look in the Sand: Pay attention to those sandy potholes on the grass flats. Scallops like grass, but they are easier to see against a sandy bottom. Many times, if you spot one on the sand, there will be several in the grass around it.

• Clean Them Quickly: An alternative to keeping scallops alive is to just clean them right away. There should be at least one person in the boat at all times, and this person can clean the scallops while the rest of the team is searching. Scallops open up when they are put on ice, so chunk them in a cooler and clean them while you’re on the water. You can discard the shells into the bay.

For more information, including complete rules and regulations, go to MyFWC.com.

Bay scallop season is winding down along the west coast of Florida. In most zones it will continue well into September, so here are some tips to help you have fun on the water and maybe pick up a last-minute limit.

• Find Your Spot: The most common advice on finding a good scalloping area is to look for the boats. It’s good advice. The flotilla bearing diver-down flags is hard to miss when you find it. Be courteous, give everyone plenty of room and drive the boat slowly, keeping an eye out for swimmers.

One trick to finding productive bottom is to pull a keen-eyed diver on a rope at idle speed. This will help cover water quickly, and once old eagle eye spots a few, you can put out the anchor.

• Slow Down: If you find one scallop, slow down and search the area thoroughly. There’s usually another one nearby.

• Keep Them Alive: Storing scallops in a livewell is a great idea if you’ve got one. They can also be kept in a cooler of ice, but be careful to drain the freshwater out of the cooler as the ice melts because it will kill your scallops. You want them to be living right up until you clean them.

Bait is Everywhere: Live bait is king when it comes to getting bit. A single good throw of the cast net should provide all the bait you need once you find a good school of mullet. Many anglers prefer fishing 5- to 8-inch mullet, because they’re small enough to cast and they’ll draw strikes from fish of all sizes. However, if big tarpon are pounding a bait school, some anglers swear a foot-long mullet catches bigger fish. Either way, freelined mullet are tough to beat. Gamefish look for isolated and injured baits on the outside of the school. Your mullet, hooked just behind the anal fin, will look like the perfect meal as it struggles to stay near the surface. For more on the mullet run, go to coastalanglermag.com.

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Check the Pinch Points: Seawalls, rocky shorelines, jetties and any other structure that juts from the shore will consolidate and channel

Find the Bait: Giant schools of bait pull all of the gamefish out of their summer patterns. Tarpon, redfish, snook, jacks, flounder, sharks, Spanish mackerel, bluefish and more transition from whatever they were doing and begin tailing and herding mullet pods. The predatory fish move with their food source. As an angler, you’re wasting your time if you’re not on top of the action.From a boat or from the beach, keep moving until you see fishy looking water. It’s unmistakable when you witness mullet fleeing from leaping jacks and tarpon, but the action can sometimes be harder to spot. Wear your polarized shades, keep the sun at your back and look for diving birds and the ripples of nervous water. There will be gamefish wherever there are huge schools of bait. Also, stay current with mullet activity in your area by sharing information with other anglers and being a regular at the local bait shops.

D epending on where you fish on Florida’s east coast, the mullet schools have either already arrived or they are on the way. Each fall, mullet flood down the coast in an enormous migration to their spawning grounds off south Florida. Along the way, they are assaulted by everything that eats fish. It’s a special time to be an angler. Here are some of the basics of fishing the mullet run to help you get in on the action.

THE MULLET ARE COMING!

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schools of mullet as they move down the coast. These are perfect feeding areas for gamefish because they provide ambush points as well structure to herd mullet against. Loud and Proud: When it comes to fishing artificials, anything that resembles a mullet is likely to get slammed around actively feeding fish. The hard part is getting marauding fish to notice your lure among thousands of real mullet. This is the time to make a commotion. Early in the mornings, loud topwater plugs that pop, walk-the-dog and throw a lot of water around will get noticed. When the topwater bite slows, it’s time to break out sub-surface plugs, spoons or paddletails on jigheads. Cast around the edges of the bait pods, because gamefish often target baitfish that stray from the pod.

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For as much as we do know about the ocean and the species we love to pursue as anglers, it’s amazing the things still left to be discovered. A scientific paper recently published in the Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences presents evidence that the Slope Sea off the northeastern coast of the United States is a major spawning ground for Atlantic bluefin tuna. The Slope Sea is an area of the Atlantic bounded to the north and west by the northeast United States Continental Shelf and to the south by the Gulf Stream. Science to this point had identified two populations of Atlantic bluefins. One returns to the Gulf of Mexico to spawn and another spawns in the Mediterranean Sea. A 2016 paper established the Slope Sea as a third spawning ground for the species, and this most recent research suggests the Slope Sea is a good place to be a larval bluefin. Researchers used plankton nets to collect larvae in the Slope Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. They compared larval growth in the two regions by studying larval otoliths, which are small bones found in the heads of tuna. Researchers also conducted larval transport simulations to estimate the movement of larvae floating in ocean currents forward and backward in time to evaluate the origin of the larvae. What they found was evidence that Slope Sea tuna larvae grow at a similar rate as those in the Gulf of Mexico. The paper notes that an additional spawning site likely offers resilience for the species in the face of harvest as well as climate change. For more information, read the research at cdnsciencepub.com.

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BLUEFIN SPAWN STUDIED OFF NORTHEASTERN U.S.

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Florida angler John Kelly seems to have figured out how to catch big snook with a fly rod. According to the International Game Fish Association, Kelly caught this beautiful 88-centimeter (almost 35inch) snook with a crab pattern on the Indian River Lagoon on July 28. Snook longer than 40 inches are caught pretty regularly from Florida waters, so this one isn’t a true monster. However, IGFA said it could potentially set the all-tackle length fly world record for the species, replacing Kelly’s own record for an 86-centimeter snook he caught in early June. On top of that, Kelly submitted another application for a 91-centimeter snook he landed in early August. These potential records are currently pending and under review by IGFA. Records or not, it’s probably safe to say that Kelly has something figured out about targeting slob snook with fly tackle. For more information, go to igfa.org. a

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On June 28, 15-year-old Edwards Tarumianz caught a gorgeous, almost pure white blue catfish on the Tennessee River near downtown Chattanooga, Tenn. It was the latest in a string of such fish to come from one small stretch of river. While catching a white catfish has been likened to winning the lottery, it seems the odds are much higher on the Tennessee River below Chickamauga Dam.“It’s become pretty clear to us that we’ve got a little recessive gene floating around in the river right here in the Chattanooga vicinity,” said Richard Simms, owner of Scenic City Fishing Charters. “I actually saw another one just a week or so ago. A guy, just a regular fisherman, caught a piebald. So, yeah, we’ve got a recessive gene floating around.”

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM SEPTEMBER 2022 NATIONAL 9

By TAM

White catfish are rare anomalies that never fail to set social media abuzz each time an angler catches one. In most instances, biologists attribute the looks of these beautiful pinkishwhite fish to leucism, a genetic trait that results in reduced pigmentation and the pale, sometimes patchy coloration they display.

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Scenic City has three captains who specialize in guiding anglers to catfish. They’ve encountered four of these white catfish since 2018. Simms keeps records of his catches, and he estimated Scenic City catches about 5,000 catfish a year. While one white catfish in 5,000 caught is hardly good odds, it’s a lot better than one in a million. This one stretch of river is producing more of these strange fish than anywhere else we’ve heard of.

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PHOTO BY RICHARD SIMMS

To get an idea of what a day chasing kings is like, I spoke Capt. Matt Paylor, of Sound-N-Sea Charters in Morehead City, N.C. For gear, he likes a 7-foot, live-bait trolling rod with a Shimano TLD reel filled to the brim with 20-pound line. Smaller, school-sized kings eagerly hit trolled spoons and frozen cigar minnows, and you can catch a lot of them.When 10- to 20-pounders are hanging out around a structure, such as artificial reefs, wrecks or ledges, casting to them with swimming plugs and topwaters can lead to fast action. For a challenge, try a 10-weight fly rod rigged with a sinking line and a big streamer fly attached to a wireAleader.20-pound king mackerel can make a fly reel sing, Paylor said, however, if you want to get the big ones, you have to use live bait. His go-to is live menhaden, but he also uses live bluefish in the 2to 3-pound range. For trolling live bait, tie 15 feet of 30-pound fluorocarbon to the end of your main line, and to that attach a double hook live bait rig made with No. 5 single-strand wire and size 4 “quad strong” trebleCapt.hooks.Paylor said kings are very predictable.

“They are so consistent with their yearly patterns that if you caught them in a spot in previous years, they are probably going to be there again,” he said.

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He recommends using a sea surface temperature chart and seeing where the water is hovering in the 70-degree range and starting your day at a reef or wreck in that zone. If you see bait working—and especially if you see kings feeding—give it a serious shot. If you have seen kings feeding in open water, you’ll never forget what it looks like; they skyrocket out of the water like a submarine-launched missile.

Paylor said a rule of thumb is to troll live baits at around 2 miles per hour. When you get a bite, the rod slams down and the reel starts screaming. Make sure your drag is not set too tightly or it’ll be over.You’ll get a nice long run when the fish is first hooked. The smaller fish of less than 20 pounds will run out of energy pretty soon. Bigger ones, from 30 to 50 pounds, won’t tire as readily, and the real monsters may do it a few times before they tire. Keep your drag set light and let the fish do its thing; follow it with the boat if necessary. A fish (besides sharks) that is the bane of king mackerel anglers is the amberjack. If you troll near any high spot, usually the top of a shipwreck, there may be a school of them there. Their detractors call them “reef donkeys” with disdain. When you are trolling with a carefully prepared trolling rig and putting in hours looking for trophy kings, one of these bad boys can mess you up. Tournament anglers especially dislike them. If you are out trolling for kings and a school of amberjacks show up in your trolling spread, don’t get mad. Have fun! These fish are a blast and hit topwater plugs with abandon. Cast soda-bottlestyle poppers in the 5- to 6-inch-long range such as the Rapala Magnum Xplode or the Yozuri Bull Pop, retrieve them with a big pull and a pause to make a huge splash, and be prepared for an amazing display. Often a group of them will come up together and slash at it with reckless abandon until one finally gets hooked. Be prepared with a heavy casting rod. I’ve caught them on 12-weight fly rods with the biggest popper I could make. They can show up at any time over any wreck or reef. You just have to be ready. If you’re not fishing in a tournament, why not go have fun with them instead of cursing at them. They will come in fast, hit hard and then keep you occupied for about 20 minutes while they try to pull you out of the boat. This article was reprinted from CoastalReview.org.

With their aggressive nature, willingness to hit almost anything, and ability to make drag screaming runs when first hooked, king mackerel are just a bunch of fun. Because of these qualities, there is a king mackerel tournament somewhere almost every weekend. Plenty of boats head out in pursuit of them from every port, and plenty of tackle dedicated to them is sold in coastal shops.

By Capt. Gordon Churchill

CATCHINGKINGSISABUNCHOFFUN

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An angler from New Jersey caught a North Carolina state record for cubera snapper on Aug. 3. Thomas Madsen caught the 58-pound, 8-ounce fish offshore of Hatteras while fishing with Capt. Tyler Fleetwood and Sea Dream FishingMadsen’sCharters.big fish measured 49.5 inches total length and had a 41-inch girth. He caught it using a Shimano jigging rod, and a Diawa Saltist reel with 80-pound test. It replaces the previous record, which weighed 58 pounds and was caught off Beaufort Inlet in 2016.The IGFA all-tackle world record for Atlantic cubera snapper was caught off Louisiana in June of 2007 by Marion Rose. It weighed 124 pounds 12 ounces. For more information on North Carolina state records, find the State Saltwater Records webpage at deq.nc.gov.

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Xanthochromistic fish are orange because the red pigmentation in their skin is replaced by yellow pigmentation.

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This is not someone’s escaped goldfish; it’s a bright orange smallmouth bass. Angler Josh Chrenko caught the rare genetic anomaly this summer from the Muskegon River in Michigan. Biologists explained that the fish’s odd coloration is due to a rare genetic condition called xanthochromism, which— like albinism or leucism—is usually caused by a recessive gene.

“Until I caught this guy, I didn’t even know [xanthic bass] existed,” Chrenko wrote in a Facebook post. “For someone that lives and breathes fishing for smallmouth, this is one I’ll remember my entire life… I can only imagine that this little guy had to overcome crazy odds to survive the first couple of years of his life from predation. Being neon-orange would make for a tough life as a small freshwater fish.” Chrenko released his orange smallie after taking a few photos. For more weird fish, go to coastalanglermag.com.

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