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Blackfish Inshore Rigging Tips PHOTO COURTESY OF DARYN ANDREW WHITE VOLUME 23 • ISSUE 288
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LIFE ON THE COAST IS BETTER WHEN YOU STAY CENTERED.
190 FSH SERIES
Make the most of the open water with Yamaha’s 190 FSH® Series. Our all-new 19-foot center console boats have been redesigned from the ground up for more fishing and family fun. A saltwater corrosion resistant driveline protects you from the harshest elements. And with an extra spacious layout and new storage pods to keep all of your gear, the 190 FSH Series will put you in the middle of everything you love about living on the coast. Starting at $29,799.
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For: Coastal Angler
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FROM SHIP TO SHORE
All trademarks mentioned are owned by, or licensed to, the AkzoNobel group of companies. © AkzoNobel 2018.
© 2 0 1 9 H AVA LO N K N I V E S
AND EVERYWHERE IN BETWEEN.
The new Havalon® TalonTM Quik-Change IITM Multi-Blade Cutlery System brings together nearly 40 years of expertise in the surgical field and decades of quality time spent out in open waters. This innovative platform features a variety of reliable add-on blades designed to make clean work of the dirty work all the way from ship to shore. 4
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For over a century, a league of canned crusaders have been fighting to keep boats safe from barnacles, slime, algae and other aquatic evils that rob your boat of its true performance. With advanced know-how and unique capabilities, each antifouling is tailored to different conditions, and has the power to defeat fouling in all its forms. Micron® WA is a water-based formula that’s powered with advanced Water Activated Matrix technology to efficiently release active ingredients over time for valiant multi-season protection. Micron® WA is easy to apply and clean up, making it ideal for boaters in all waters and regions. For super-powered antifouling protection and proven performance, choose Interlux®.
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Tampa Bay, A Jewel On
Florida’s Gulf Coast By Rosemary J. White
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ampa Bay has some of the very best fishing in the state of Florida, which means it is some of the best fishing in the world. What makes Tampa Bay so unique is the many different varieties of both freshwater and saltwater fish to catch, as well as the many different ways to catch them. If you are not a boat person, Tampa offers the world’s longest fishing pier, the Old Sunshine Skyway Bridge. Here you can catch snook, tarpon, grouper, black sea bass, Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, cobia, sheepshead, red snapper and pompano. That’s 10 species of highly desirable fish from just one location, without a boat! And if that list alone is not impressive enough, fishing the bridge is convenient, too. You’ll need some specialized gear, but once
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you’ve got it you can drive right onto the pier to your exact sweet spot and unload. It’s also lit at night! There’s no limit as to what time of the day you can fish. Feel like delving into the ocean world a little deeper than a concrete bridge? Tampa Bay boasts the stunning Fort Desoto County Park. Here you can simply slip on a pair of old sneakers and wade into cerulean blue waters and lush seagrass beds. Sound surreal? It is. Wading is a stealthy approach to fishing. In addition to species from the list above, you can also catch redfish, trout and flounder. Looking to fish the deeper waters of the bay? About 45 miles out, the water depths start to reach the 80-foot range. Out here, the possibilities are endless. Varieties of grouper, assortments of snapper, arrays of sharks, blackfin tuna, sailfish, mahi, amberjack, jack crevalle, permit and bonita can be added to the previously mentioned lists of available species. What if you tend to lean more toward the fresh side? Tampa Bay has some of the most diverse freshwater fishing opportunities one can imagine. Use a kayak to quietly glide through the tannic waters of our creeks to catch largemouth bass that grow upwards of 10 pounds. The creeks also hold massive bluegills, crappie, toothy alligator gar, tilapia, catfish and carp. The secret to what makes our freshwater fishing so thrilling is that you never know what you are going to catch. You see, many of our saltwater species inhabit our freshwater, as well. It is not only possible, but it is common to catch a big largemouth and then five minutes later a 15-pound common snook. Tampa Bay offers a temperate climate, direct access to the Gulf of Mexico, artificial reefs, a unique slowly sloping continental shelf, and an abundance of freshwater feeds. From grass flats and mangrove systems in our inshore ecological system, to the deeper channels throughout the bay and Intracoastal Waterway, anglers have the opportunity to catch anything from sharks to Goliath grouper. The potential for the catch of a lifetime exists on every cast.
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*At participating dealers only. Qualifying retail customers may receive instant savings off the selling price of a Honda powered boat package or Honda Marine engine(s) sold for repower. This promotion is limited to new Honda Marine 40 HP through 250 HP outboard engines, 2014 and newer models, sold and delivered between January 3, 2019 and June 3, 2019 and registered by the Dealer in accordance with American Honda Motor Co., Inc.’s sales registration requirements. Only Honda Marine outboard engines sold for personal use qualify for this promotion. Fleet, commercial & government sales are ineligible. Engines sold under special pricing / promotions including (but not limited to) demo and tournament fisherman engines are also excluded. Honda Marine reserves the right to modify, amend, cancel or revoke, in whole or in part, this promotion at any time without prior notice. © 2019 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Always wear a COASTALANGLERMAG.COM personal flotation device while boating and read• your owner’s manual. All Honda outboards meet EPA and CARB emissionIlevels. THEANGLERMAG.COM I FEBRUARY 2019 NATIONAL 7
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NauticStar Introduces
SEE IT AT THE MIAMI INTL BOAT SHOW BOOTH A237 The 251 Hybrid offers a fresh new look and a new 25-foot model to NauticStar’s very successful hybrid lineup. This unique multipurpose vessel offers the perfect size and features for a family friendly pleasure boat and a tournament ready fishing platform. NauticStar has also moved into the 30-foot plus category with its
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newest member of the family: the 32 XS Offshore. This outstanding saltwater performer delivers all the necessary fishing features for the serious angler with a smooth, dry, comfortable ride with cutting edge styling and comfort features never before seen in a boat of this style and size. With its 10’ 6” beam, the 32 XS Offshore offers a spacious and comfortable bow that features large forward lounge seating with arm rests and plush wrap-around bow seats. The head console has a fully lined interior with a sink, SeaDek floor and electric flush toilet. It has a spacious and ergonomic helm to allow for dual 12-inch or 16inch multifunction displays. The leaning post features ergonomically correct Llebrock double billfish seats with flip-up bolsters and pivot arms. It has a sink, tackle storage, and a slide-out, 35-quart YETI cooler. The D-channel, integrated T-top can be fitted with a variety of options such as a retractable shade and fold-down cockpit television. Aft, the jump seats flip-up for a spacious fishing deck with sizable, infloor fish boxes and large port side dive door. “Engineered for exceptional reliability and performance, the new 32 XS Offshore carries forward NauticStar’s 100-percent wood-free construction and one-piece foam filled fiberglass stringer system,” said Ryan Witt, director of engineering. “Additionally, we’ve added some great new design features such as sculpted hull sides, a sideentry cockpit door, and large insulated in-floor fish boxes. The 32 XS Offshore also features cutting edge technologies with NaviOP digital vessel control system and Klipsch custom-tuned audio system.” “I am very proud of the team and all they have accomplished over the past year,” Schiek added. “These new models are truly exciting and we look forward to introducing many great new models in the future.” The 251 Hybrid and 32 XS Offshore will be on display in Miami at booth A237 and available for test rides in the Yamaha in-water display. For more information on each of NauticStar’s new model introductions, please visit: 195 Bay - https://nauticstarboats. com/boats/nauticbay-boats/195-nauticbay/ 251 Hybrid - https:// nauticstarboats.com/boats/hybrids/251-hybrid/
TI EES EHT TA LTNI IMAIM WOHS TAOB 732A HTOOB
auticStar Boats, a subsidiary of MasterCraft Boat Holdings, Inc., has been reinvesting in the business at an accelerated pace, specifically, modernizing the plant and developing leading edge new products. The Company launched the new 195 Bay Boat in August, followed by the 251 Hybrid in September and will debut its largest offshore model yet, the 32 XS Offshore, at the Miami International Boat Show. “To say we have been busy at NauticStar is an understatement,” NauticStar President Tim Schiek said in a statement. “We have assembled a strong team of marine experts focused on delivering the highest quality and best performing boats in their segment. This is not only driving continuous improvement in our boat building processes, but throughout the entire organization. We have also implemented a more disciplined product development process that is delivering more new products, at a faster cadence, with increased consumer insights and innovation that ultimately will deliver the best boating experience for our consumers at a reasonable price.”
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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THE ALL NEW
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NAUTICSTAR’S
251 HYBRID
Three Exciting New Models!
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With its sleek lines and stylish contours, the new 251 Hybrid offers a fresh new look and a 25 foot addition to the NauticStar Hybrid lineup. This unique multi-purpose vessel offers the perfect size and features for a family friendly pleasure boat and a tournament ready fishing platform. If you need a serious fishing machine for yourself or a boat with enough room for a large crowd, the 251 Hybrid is the boat for you! Check out all the incredible features of the 251 on our website and design the boat of your dreams.
Factory installed with
Call (662) 200-4664 or visit our website:
NauticStarBoats.com COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM Some photos shown with optional equipment
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By Tom Schlichter
Winter Bulldogs Out Of Ocean City, Maryland By Tom Schlichter
Ron McClelland caught this 24-pound blackfish aboard the Fish Bound out of Ocean City, Md. in April of 2018. Mate Kevin Twilley helps hoist the beast. Photo courtesy of Fish Bound Charters.
K
enneth Westerfeld was expecting a big blackfish when he set up on a solid, single-tug while wreck fishing out of Ocean City, Md. back in January of 2015. What he wasn’t expecting was a new International Game Fish Association (IGFA) world record at the end of the line.
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“We were into big blackfish right off the bat,” explained the Queens, N.Y. angler, “and I knew immediately when I set the hook that this was a double-digit white chin. I got three quick turns on the reel and then all I could do was hold the rod high and tight while she dove for the wreck. More than half way to the top, however, she got a second wind and tore 40 feet of line from my drag, which was nearly locked tight. I couldn’t believe the power. That’s when I knew this one was more than special.” When the monstrous bulldog finally hit the deck, Westerfeld was stunned by its size. Back at Sunset Marina in Ocean City, the huge white chin officially tipped the scales at 28 pounds, 8 ounces. That blackfish, still the all tackle world record for the tough-lipped bottom feeders, was decked aboard Capt. Kane Bounds’ six-pack charter boat Fish Bound, a vessel on which Westerfeld has taken several ’teen-sized bulldogs over the years. “I’m convinced there’s even bigger blackfish in Maryland waters,” he said. “A couple of years ago, an experienced SCUBA diver reported seeing two giant blackfish on an offshore reef there—the smaller one he estimated at 30 pounds.” Capt. Kane agrees that bigger fish probably lurk in the 80- to 150-foot depths where he concentrates most of his blackfish efforts. “I think our ’tog have a little longer growing season than up north,” he reasoned. “That makes a difference with a fish that can live more than 30 years. In 2017 alone, we had five that broke the 20-pound mark. Three of those were released.” You’ll want to fish heavy in these waters if giant ’tog are your target. Bounds recommended conventional outfits with smooth drags and 50- to 60-pound test braided lines. He also goes big on hooks, choosing 5/0 and 6/0 sizes over more traditional 3/0 and 4/0 selections. Expect to need 8 to 12 ounces of lead to get to the bottom. Monster blackfish bite right through the winter months, with many of the largest fish decked each year in February, March and April. Westerfeld advised anglers looking for the blackfish of a lifetime to use fluorocarbon leaders no matter which rigs or hooks they choose. “Maryland’s waters are pretty clear in the winter and low visibility fluorocarbon leaders really provide an edge,” he said. “Seaguar’s 60-lb. test Blue Label fluorocarbon leaders have worked well for me. They have great abrasion resistance and impact strength, plus very little stretch—three things you really need with these brutes.” To fish with Capt. Kane on the six-passenger Fish Bound, contact: www. fishboundcharter.com; 443-497-1361. Open boat fans can check out the Morning Star (http://morningstarfishing.com; 410-520-2076).
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
1/21/19 10:31 AM
Central Florida Bass Are On The Beds By Nick Carter • Photo by Brett Cannon
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hile largemouth bass across much of the country remain hunkered down in a winter pattern, bass in central Florida are running full tilt in all three stages of the spawn. Right now tournament angler and guide Ricky Congero is wearing out big Florida strain largemouths on the eight Kissimmee Chain lakes around Orlando. Whether you’re an angler in need of a road trip or if you’re sitting in an easy chair waiting on your reservoir to get right, Congero’s tactics might help steer you to the largemouth of a lifetime. Starting in November and December, Kissimmee largemouths begin staging up in prespawn behaviors. The first big waves of fish hit the flats toward the end of January. They’ll move in and out with the passage of cold fronts, but from January into early March there will be fish in all stages of the spawn. The key to locating them among miles of thick vegetation is to find hard-bottomed shallow flats. “You can pattern them year-round based on the spawning flats,” Congero said. “During prespawn, they’ll be staged in the first grass maybe
100 yards off those flats. Postspawn, they’ll move out into the dense hydrilla and hyacinth.” Congero starts by covering water with moving baits like swim jigs and Chatterbaits in search of bass preparing to move up. When the smaller males arrive on the flats to fan out beds, it’s an indicator that fishing is about to get very good. “If you start catching a bunch of young bucks on the flats, the big females won’t be far behind,” he said. In the tannic waters of the Kissimmee lakes, it’s difficult to spot fish on the bed. Instead of sight fishing, Congero looks for the locations big females prefer. “You always find the bigger females bedded on isolated pads, as opposed to the big clumps of pads,” he said. “They’ll spawn right at the base of the stem.” And while heavy braid and heavy-duty tackle are mainstays for hossing big fish out of thick vegetation, fishing beds requires stealth and finesse. Sizing down to 17- or 20-pound fluorocarbon, Congero likes a short 5- or 6-inch Senko. A staple on the Kissimmee lakes is black with a blue tail. He Texas rigs it with 1-ounce tungsten bullet weight, which is pegged to the head of the worm. This allows him to feel when his bait hits the stalk, at which time he lets it sit on the bottom until the bass picks it up. “Don’t set the hook as soon as you feel her pick it up,” he warned. “She might just have the tail in her mouth and you’ll come back with half a worm. Wait until she’s swimming off with it. Reel up all the slack and give her a second or two before you set it.” For a guided trip, contact Congero at (973) 6998981 or email info@blackcloudfishing.com. Follow him on Instagram @Ricky_Congero.
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VISIT AND Visit andEXPLORE Explore Burnsville, NC Burnsville, N.C.
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hether you’re hiking, exhibits. The restaurant, conces- through Yancey fishing or camping sion stand and gift shop are open County. hether you’re hiking, fishing or Mountains and the South Toe in the mountains or May thru a fun camping in the mountains, at- October. River Campground Valley. StretchingEnjoy nearly has 9 tent sites only. attending a performance at Parkfilled day on tending a performance at Parkway 500 miles through the mountains the Playhouse ororcoming North Virginia way Playhouse comingtotothe theMt. Mitchell Winding of along the Carolina southern and water, catching Crafts Fair Crafts or Carolina Literary without a single red light, Mt. Mitchell Fair orMountains Caro- edge of Yancey County, the Blue the the fishBlue native to Festival, there’sLiterary alwaysFestival, a good day waiting Ridge one of the best lina Mountains Ridge Parkway givesParkway travelersisan our mountains. for you in Burnsville, North Carolina, espe- scenic drives in America. there’s always a good day waiting amazing view of the Black MounWe is guarantee cially for travelers who like to discover their The Blue Ridge Parkway the forown youjourney. in Burnsville, North Car- tains and the South Toe River your fishing only access to Mount Mitchell County is home State Park at Hwy andwill mileolina, Yancey especially for travelers whoto waterfalls, Valley. Stretching for nearly 500128trip be full campgrounds, hiking post It’s five miles sumSnakeroot Ecotours offers custom tours like to discover theirbackroads, own journey. milestrails, through the355. mountains of to of the fish-catching clean rivers, and six the 10tohighest peaks mit. and The Parkway by Civilian Con-Observation at Mount State Park. of one ofplatform the wildest andMitchell most scenic corNorth Carolina Virginia was – built Yancey County is ofhome experiences! in the eastern United States. servation Corps labor in the 1930s. Workers ners of Western North Carolina. They invite and not one single redlight – the waterfalls, campgrounds, backToe River, Located in southern Yancey County, used dynamite to blast tunnels through the you into astoundingly Southern diverse Appalachian habitatsMounand Blue Ridge Parkway is one the a Carolina roads, hiking trails,(6,684 clean feet) rivers,is the Hemlocks, Black Mount Mitchell highest mountains andofcarve road through rough, and reveal the mysteries of the Southern Appatains. More info at www.snakemountain of the peaks Mississippi River. It drives remote terrain. The Parkway rises to an el- lachian scenic in America. and six of theeast 10 highest in best Mountain Campgrounds are all lo-Mountains. See more info at www. rootecotours.com. was designated North evation over 5,000 as it off passes through snakerootecotours.com. Blue Ridge Parkway is thefeetcated Eastern America. the first state park in The Highway 80 in the South The Burnsville-Yancey ChamCarolina in 1916. Today it features an obYancey County. Located in southern Yancey only access to Mount Mitchell Toe River area of Yancey County. servation platform on the summit next to Enjoy a fun-filled day on the water, The Burnsville-Yancey Chamber of ber of Commerce and Visitor State Park at catching Hwy 128the andfish mileCounty, Mount Mitchell (6,684 State Park and and Visitor Center is located at Elisha Mitchell’s grave and an interpretive nativeMount to ourMitchell mountains. Commerce Center is located at 106 West Main post 355. It’s miles to thefishing feet) is the highest mountain East Crabtree Meadows by Main Street in Burnsville. Inside museum with historical and environmental Wefive guarantee your trip will be full are of accessed 106 West findofa inforhelpful The restaurant, standThe Parkway fish-catching experiences! was built by the Blue Ridge Parkway. you’ll find aStreet. of exhibits. the Mississippi River. It wasconcession des- summit. helpfulInside staff you’ll and lots and gift are park openinMay through River, Carolina Hemlocks andEcotours Black offers staff and lotslodging, of information mation shopping,on CCCOctolabor in theToe 1930s. Workers ignated the shop first state North Snakeroot cus-on attractions, ber. Theincampground limited to used only nine Mountain are all located off dining and local businesses and services. The attractions, lodging, shopping, dynamite to blastcampgrounds tunnels tom Carolina 1916. Today itisfeatures tours of area one of of the wildest tent sites. Highway 80 in the South Toe River Visitor Center and office are open Monday& dining, and local businesses through the mountains and carve an observation platform on the most scenic cornersthrough of West-Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call Winding along the southern edge of Yancey County. Mountand Mitchell State Park road through rough, remote ter- ern summit to Elisha services. Visitor Center and office Carolina. Yanceynext County, the Mitchell’s Blue Ridge a Parkway and Crabtree Meadows areNorth accessed by theWe invite (828) you 682-7413. givesand travelers an amazing view ofrain. the Black Blue Ridge Parkway. The Parkway rises to an ele- into astoundingly diverse habitats open Monday thru Friday 9am to grave, an interpretive museum with historical and environmental vation over 5,000 feet as it passes and reveal the mysteries of the 5pm. Call (828) 682-7413.
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FISH & FISHING
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Introducing the all-new M6 Marine Speakers & Subwoofer Drivers with optional RGB LED Lighting
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FLORIDA
More than 1,400 boats—in water and on land, over 1,100 exhibitors, new boat models and product debuts, demo docks, marine electronics pavilion. Miami’s hottest fishing spot. Catch everything from sport fishing yachts, center consoles, dual consoles, downeast boats, express fishing boats, bay boats, and walkarounds from all the top brands, plus a Sportfishing Pavilion packed with fishing tackle, accessories, clothing and more.
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THE ALTERNATIVE TO BUYING A NEW BOAT
Suzuki Repower Centers are stationed around the southeast to help with your Suzuki service and repower needs.
Performance Bulletin Available
54 YEARS OF REPOWER EXPERIENCE!
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Mastry Engine Center
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hat a wild, wet and woolly week it was for the fleet fishing the Pelican Yacht Club Invitational Billfish Tournament out of Fort Pierce, Fla. Jan. 9-12. First, the fleet of 30 fishing teams crushed all the records for the 39th annual tournament, and for the 65-year history of sailfish tournaments fished in eastern Florida waters. The final tally was 969 sailfish caught and released. The tournament’s second day of action wound up being the single best day in sailfish tournament history for any event fished north of Palm Beach County in waters of the Atlantic Ocean. A total of 712 sailfish were caught and released by the 27 boats on the water that day. The top three boats that day accounted for 121 sailfish by themselves — JT, led by Capt. Mark McDevitt, had 41 sailfish; Cowpoke, led by Capt. Mike Brady, had 40 sailfish; Alikai, led by Capt. Patrick Price, had 40 sailfish. The 41 by JT, owned by David Johnson of Beach Haven, N.J., stands as the new record for the tournament for a boat in a single day. Consider also that tournament rules stipulate fishing time as 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. But since the boat departed Fort Pierce Inlet each day, and the sailfish were concentrated in an area north of Patrick Air Force Base and south of Port Canaveral’s main channel some 45-50 miles north, tournament boats were forced to sacrifice up to 1:45 of fishing time each day just to reach the best fishing. But when they did, they were rewarded, at least for two days. The event began Jan. 9 when Grand Slam, led by Capt. David Grubbs
of New Smyrna Beach, sat down on an area so packed with hungry sailfish that it looked like a feeding frenzy under his boat. Grubbs felt it was going to yield some fish, and ran there because he knew it would produce bites. Few, if any, in the fleet knew his plan. By noon, the cat was out of the bag. Big time. He wound up with a Treasure Coast area then single-day record 38 sailfish catches that day and a substantial lead on his competitors, known to be some of the best sailfish skippers in the western hemisphere. Teams racked up catches of an incredible 86 double-headers, 45 triples and 15 quads. It was truly staggering. On Jan. 10 the fleet followed the leader, Grubbs and crew, to the fertile fishing grounds off the Space Coast and helped him achieve something many experienced sailfish specialists thought could only be accomplished in Mexico or Costa Rica. The captains called it epic and incredible, unbelievable and amazing. But it wouldn’t last. On Jan. 11 the fish had either scattered a bit, moved back north out of range, or simply quit biting, like fish of any species do. The fleet of 27 fishing that day picked up “just” 93 releases. Saturday, with a smaller fleet fishing because of lay days mandated by tournament rules, those numbers dwindled more. The final day anglers tallied only 29 releases, reminiscent of the season’s start in December when sailfish bites were very hard to come by.
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Close Encounters of the Shark Kind By John Lidington
A diver observes a reef shark near Shark Canyon. In natural encounters, when sharks are not being fed, they rarely approach divers much closer than this.
“K
atharine the Giant Great White Shark Lurks Off Florida — Again” If Katharine was here, as the South Florida SunSentinal announced on Nov. 26, winter was on its way. Usually this snowbird shark from Cape Cod arrives first, and being a great white, she always makes the news. For divers, though, her arrival means the migrating lemon and blacktip sharks are on the way. It’s shark time for Florida’s Gold Coast! When I started diving in the 1960s, the arrival of sharks meant the departure of divers. Prevailing wisdom held that sharks were dangerous and unpredictable and should be avoided. That outlook on sharks began to change in the 70s. Scientists, such as the University of Miami’s Dr. Samuel Gruber, had turned shark behavior into a major study area. H. David Baldridge analyzed data from more than 1,500 cases in the worldwide shark attack file established by Dr. Perry Gilbert to identify the real factors behind shark “attacks.” The emerging picture showed an animal superbly adapted to its environment by its 400-million-year existence in the oceans. Man, as a newcomer to their world, was not seen as food, and usually ignored. In his 1974 book “Shark Attack,” Baldridge wrote: “I wish not to generate any
fear of sharks in the mind of any reader, yet a healthy respect for these beautifully adapted beasts would appear to be justified…” It took the PR genius of Jacques Cousteau to popularize this science and help dispel unnecessary fear of sharks. The air of authority gained from his highly regarded TV series lent credence to his book “The Shark: Splendid Savage of the Sea,” in which he documented divers regularly interacting with sharks. Sharks were becoming accepted in the diving world. But there was a bump in the road. At the same time “Shark Attack” appeared, Peter Benchley published Jaws. His depiction of sharks as malevolent killing machines was promptly translated to visual form in Steven Spielberg’s movie adaptation. The impressions from those twin horror assaults did eventually fade, but for quite a while it was the rare diver who didn’t experience flashbacks of huge toothy mouths while doing back entries. The twenty-first century has seen divers’ attitudes shift even more favorably toward sharks. Today many divers want to encounter sharks. They regularly visit sites naturally frequented by sharks in hopes of diving alongside these majestic fish. When diving Jupiter during the winter shark migration, your chances for shark encounters skyrocket! According to Shana Phelan of Singer Island’s Pura Vida Divers, “The most common sharks we see year round are nurse sharks, reef sharks and lemons. Our most active shark months are in the winter, with lemons in January and blacktips in January and February. Winter sightings are most likely at Shark Canyon and on some of the wrecks.” Shark Canyon, here I come! Pura Vida Divers hosts regular shark dives in February. To learn more about these awesome creatures, book a PADI Shark Conservation Specialty Diver class, or hop aboard their next charter. Contact Pura Vida Divers at 561-840-8750 or visit www.PuraVidaDivers.com.
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4 Reel
By Capt. Pete Bilardello
T
here is no great secret regarding fishing reels. If you take care of them after every use and service them at least once or twice a year it will extend the reliability and life of the reel. It doesn’t matter if you fish inshore, offshore, lakes, rivers, saltwater or fresh— old grease, sand, salt and grit can bind the gears and can cause excess wear on parts and possibly cause the loss of a trophy fish. Of all the reel’s parts, bearings and drag washers are the most important. If you feel the reel binding or you’re not getting the distance when casting, the cause could be dirt, old grease or a bad bearing. There are many types of bearings, stainless and ceramic. Without hesitation if a bearing needs replacement, we replace it with a stainless steel, ABEC-5 or ABEC-7. For those anglers where weight and casting distance is everything, I suggest ceramic, as they are 2/3 the weight, virtually frictionless and harder than steel with less corrosion issues.
Depending how much you fish, drag washers should be replaced periodically or in some cases cleaned to remove the grit and grime. A basic test for drag washers is to start by tightening down the drag and pulling line off the reel by hand. If the line is slipping or jerky as you pull, it’s time to change out the drag’s washer. We’ve learned that replacement should be what the manufacturer recommends; substituting could change the dynamics of the reel performance. Wet or dry drag washers? That’s a discussion in itself. We let our customers decide what they want. Regular cleaning of your fishing equipment is essential for peak performance. If nothing else, rinsing with fresh water will help. Our company has developed the product 4 Reel Cleaner. Just spray on after each use and you’ll dramatically extend the lifetime of any reel by eliminating harmful salts, grit, stains, mold and blood. It’s also safe on all fishing lines including braids, mono and fly lines. Whether you service the reels yourself or send them out, reels should be completely torn down, parts cleaned and inspected for wear. Inspect bearings for noise or binding. Check for worn or broken drag washers, and replace them if needed. Then re-assemble reels using the highest quality lubrication available. 4 Reel Services has been serving the fishing community since 2006 in southeast Florida. We service a full spectrum of reels including salt and freshwater reels, power-assist reels, electric reels and downriggers. For information about 4 Reel Services, visit at www.4ReelServices.com or call 561-509-9055. For information about 4 Reel Products and 4 Reel Cleaner, visit www.4ReelProducts.com or call 561348-1125.
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Covering All of MIAMI-DADE County...Offshore, INSHORE & Freshwater!
GREATER MIAMI
IN THIS ISSUE:
Wahoo Tips & Tricks
LOCAL Fishing Forecasts • Tide Charts • Brag Board For advertising or other inquiries, call (954) 680-3900 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM FEBRUARY 2019 GREATER MIAMI or email us at MIAMI@coastalanglermagazine.com 400_Miami_FINAL.indd 1
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Off to a fishing trip or out to the sandbar, come check us out. We have what you need!
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WEST ENTRANCE TO BLACK POINT MARINA
P
assion! It's a word that can bring to mind many things. February is the month of hearts, flowers and chocolate as we remember those most important to us during Valentine’s Day. Sure, it's just another greeting card holiday, but also a reminder of finding passion in our lives. What is your passion? For me it’s time on the water. Lines out, tunes cranking, and spending time with family and friends enjoying the open seas. I never feel more connected to nature and my place on this planet then when I am offshore fishing. Finding your passion isn’t about a career or money. It’s about finding your authentic self. The one you have buried beneath the needs of other people in your life. If you can’t stop thinking about it then you shouldn’t stop doing it. Be fearless as you are in pursuit of what sets a fire in your soul. No matter your passion, pursue it with all your heart. February is a great month for fishing in South Florida. Sailfishing should be red hot all month long as cold fronts come through more regularly. The wahoo bite should still be solid around the new and full moons and bigger blackfin tunas should start to show up. Freshwater fishing will also be heating up this month. As water levels and temperatures drop, the bigger female bass will be feeding aggressively as they get ready to spawn. Get out there and bend a rod! Keep reelin,
GENE DYER
Editor & Publisher Coastal Angler Miami miami@coastalanglermagazine.com (954) 680-3900
305.257.1117 www.bitemebaitshack.com
Live Shrimp • Live Crabs • Live Fish • Live Worms • Live Shinners Frozen Bait • Salt Water Tackle • Fresh Water Tackle Wide Assortment of Lures • Rod & Reel Repairs • Cast Net Repairs Custom Rods • Line Winding • Spear Guns Cold Beer • Cigarettes • Ice, Snacks and More
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Bouncer’s
TIP of the Month Small Baits Can Produce Big! Why bring a slingshot to a gunfight? Well I’ll tell you. As you know, I have a Miami based charter boat and we are always concerned with keeping our guest entertained. For this reason we will often put out a small bait to catch lesser gamefish between the primary targeted species. This past fall our clients caught numerous skipjack tuna and some blackfin tuna by fishing one to two inch pilchards on 3/0 light wire circle hooks tied to 20 pound mono leaders. These rigs were fished on 3500 Penn Battle 2s with 20 pound braid. The battles with these fish were like fighting bonefish and produced delicious fish dinners. Numerous mahi also fell to this approach. When we go trolling, we always put out the smallest model of a Billy Bait. This small lure is today’s equivalent to the 1/4 ounce trolling feathers of the 60s and 70s from my past. Over the years, these small trolling lures have produced tens of thousands of little tunny, assorted tunas, mahi from 1 to 40 pounds, wahoo, kingfish, barracuda, sailfish and even blue marlin. Spanish mackerel caught aboard And then there is live Bouncer’s Dusky 33. shrimp. Back in the 60s and 70s, we used to target big tarpon with mullet and pinfish. One day I had some live shrimp left over from a bonefish trip. The tarpon were solid, but not biting. After hours of boredom, I baited a light rod with a live shrimp in hopes of at least catching a blue runner. I was shocked when a 100 pound tarpon ate the shrimp almost instantly. We have targeted big tarpon with medium sized shrimp ever since. An old time guide named Muriel Harmon taught me that Spanish mackerel were easy to catch on small live shrimp when nothing else could get them biting. So, next time the fishing gets boring, try going Small.
D
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Capt. Bouncer Smith Bouncer’s Dusky 33 (305) 439-2475 www.CaptBouncer.com
2 GREATER MIAMI
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forecastS
SPORT
fISHING
E
very February, as air and water temperatures take a dip, much of the action moves to the surface. Species such as sailfish, mahi, tuna, wahoo and kingfish all become very active and cruise up and down the rip looking for an easy meal. Although trolling can be productive at times, nothing beats a frisky live bait, especially when presented under a fishing kite. Kite baits can be presented either by drifting or slow trolling. Exactly how to present the baits depends largely on conditions. Since most of these fish are highly migratory, their numbers and availability vary greatly from day to day and week to week. On days when the current is non existent and the water looks less than great, the bite can slow to a crawl. Seasoned anglers know that this can happen at any time and that a plan b should always be in place. Starting around February, bottom fish start to move in especially around wrecks, rock piles, ledges and areas of hard bottom. I can’t count the number of days that have been saved by dropping on wrecks. Bruisers such as black grouper, muttons, almaco and amberjack provide an excellent challenge to even the most seasoned anglers. Most of the time, live bait is the best way to catch these fish but on many days vertical jigging works just as well, especially for the jacks. Before you decide to drop, you may want to gauge the wind and current. A ripping current isn’t very conducive to this type of fishing. Personally, I don’t like dropping
Capt. Orly with a nice mutton snapper.
when the current exceeds more that 2 mph and prefer less than 1 mph. If amberjack are present in good numbers, the current isn’t a deal breaker. The key is to mark the fish on your bottom machine and proceed to calculate the drift. I usually stop over or near my target and put the boat in neutral while watching my drift on the plotter. Once I figure out which way the boat will drift and how fast, I motor up current and drop. Fat muttons or grouper are suckers for a pinfish but will eat other baits as well if pinfish aren’t available. Another great option is a medium blue runner. Both of these baits can easily be caught on the way out to the fishing grounds or
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FEBRUARY 2019
penned up ahead of time. Some of these wrecks are located in depths exceeding 250’ so a hardy bait is a must. Don’t bother dropping a small pilchard or small herring because most of the time, they won’t survive the first drop. Tackle for wreck fishing should include some sort of conventional rod and reel spooled with a minimum of 50 pound test braid. Although some may think that heavy line is a great idea, keep in mind that a larger diameter line will tend to rise up in the current and require more weight. Also, I like to use large non offset circle hooks along with a long leader. Use at 25 feet of 50 pound monofilament leader. On large baits, it is a good idea to bridle
the bait for better hook ups. My last piece of advice is to utilize your rod holders, but only if they are through bolted and have a backing plate. Some of these fish will rip off a poorly secured rod holder, so don’t take any chances. Using a bent butt rod and working it from the holder will save your back and give you a better chance of turning an angry fish. Your back will definitely thank you too. Although you’ll catch a lot of jacks doing this, many times you’ll be pleasantly surprised. I always get excited when the fish stops fighting hard halfway to the surface. Grouper and snapper usually stop fighting hard when their bladder fills with air. Since grouper season is closed until May, you may want to carry a release tool that can vent unwanted fish so they can swim safely, back to the bottom. As you can see, February is full of possibilities. Not only will the fishing be great but you’ll get to enjoy the best South Florida weather. Just remember to bundle up on those cold mornings and evenings. If you’re interested in getting in on the action just give us a call and we can make it happen. Don’t forget to keep up with the latest reports, pictures and news by following me on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YOUTUBE. FRIENDS AND SPONSORS: Mercury Marine, Bass Pro Shops, Offshore Angler, Costa Sunglasses, Taco Marine, Betts Tackle, Xtratuf, SeaDek, ACRARTEX, Aquatic Nutrition, Tigress, Baitmasters and Cuda Brand.
Capt. Orlando Muniz Nomad Fishing Charters 786-266-0171 www.fishingchartermiami.com
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By Chris Fay
ahoo fishing can be tricky, but it can also be a blast! My name is Chris Fay and my favorite fish to target would definitely be the elusive wahoo. I work on a local charter boat, Poseidon Too, out of Deerfield Beach. We fish a lot and put in a lot of time and effort searching for a bite from the hardest hitting fish in the ocean. Fishing for wahoo requires patience, a little skill and lots of luck! By luck, I mean having everything come together. From the tides, moon and current, to the bait, and most importantly, your tackle. There are many things you can’t control offshore, such as losing a fish boat side or getting your fish eaten by shark, but one thing you do have control over is the tackle you’re fishing. Spend the time at home making sure your line is fresh, your knots or crimps are fresh and your hooks are super sharp. Lay out the baits and colors you want to fish and be prepared for battle. Sometimes these fish will only feed for a very short period of time and you don’t want to be spending your time re rigging while the bite is hot. Some techniques for targeting wahoo here in South Florida are high speed trolling with leads, planer fishing and fishing live bullet bonitos or tunas. I would say my favorite way to target them would be using a number 6 and number 8 planer attached with 50 feet of 50 pound monofilament to 20 feet of 50 pound fluorocarbon to number 7 wire with double 7/0 Mustad hooks. You can pull bonita strips, split tail mullet, ballyhoo or spoons. All of those are great baits. I like to use sea witches or Iland lures to cover up my tackle along with a fresh bonita strip purchased from a local tackle shop. You can also buy pre rigged shock leaders on yoyos made for the planer or to use high speed trolling as well. Colors are very important to me, depending on the day, the clarity of the water and most importantly the type of baitfish in the water. I like to use dark colors, such as red and black or purple and black when the water is clean and the sky is clear. I will switch it up and fish a lot of pink and white, pink and blue or even all white, especially when the moon is full and the water is dirty. Have confidence in your baits, continue to check your baits and make sure they are fishing properly and tracking through the water the way you like them to. The inlets have a constant flow of water and that’s a great area to find feeding fish, especially during the first few hours of daylight. I find that the first few hours and the last few hours of the incoming or outgoing tides, particularly around the new and full moons are the best times to target wahoo. Pay attention to which way the current is going and the sea state of the ocean and that will determine how fast you can troll. Be sure to troll the wrecks. Hit every side of them. Don’t just pass a wreck once and keep moving. Wrecks hold all kinds of bait because of the structure, and as you all know, usually where there is bait there is fish! Wake up early and get out before the crowds as wahoo like to feed In low light conditions and will get finicky as the sun comes up. Most importantly have fun while you’re fishing. Put your time in and you will have success. Fish hard from 90 to 400 feet of water, with my favorite depth being roughly 120 to 300 feet. Pay attention to your fish finder and look for any temperature change, even if it is only a half of a degree. Keep your baits fresh, your tackle in order and get ready for the most exciting reel screaming action you’ve ever had!
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Tide Charts | MIAMI BEACH, GOVERNMENT CUT | Feb/2019 |...
https://fl.usharbors.com/monthly-tides/Florida-South/Government ...
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Government Cut Tides
Government Cut, Miami Harbor Entrance Tides - Feb/2019
25°46'N 80°8'W
DATE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
HIGH AM
Fri
6:24
Sun
7:49
Tue
9:02
Thu
10:11
Sat
11:21
Mon
12:30
Wed
2:21
Fri
4:36
Sun
6:37
Tue
8:20
Thu
9:54
Sat
7:08
Mon
8:26
Wed
9:37
Fri
10:46
Sun
11:58
Tue
1:22
Thu
3:28
Sat
5:40
Mon
7:30
Wed
9:08
Fri
10:41
Sun
12:02
Wed
2:56
Sat
11:28
ft
LOW PM
2.1
6:27
2.2
7:53
2.2
9:10
2.2
10:26
2.1
11:46
1.9
12:39
1.9
2:25
2.1
4:42
2.4
6:48
2.7
8:37
2.8
10:19
2.1
7:12
2.2
8:32
2.2
9:48
2.1 2.0
11:05
1.9
1:26
2.0
3:32
2.2
5:48
2.6
7:44
2.8
9:28
2.7
11:10
2.5
12:17
2.0
3:05
2.5
ft
AM
2.0
12:22
2.1
1:46
2.1
2:59
2.0
4:08
2.0 2.1
1:05
2.1
2:23
2.1
3:34
2.0
4:44
1.9
6:08
1.8
8:05
2.0
10:18
5:23
1.9
7:02
1.9
9:13
2.2
11:19
2.6
12:40
2.7
2:25
2.6
4:07
2.3
5:52
1.9
8:51
2.4 2.7
1:33
2.7
3:16 4:58
25 Mon 12:56 2.3 1:09 2.2 6:48 Tide Charts | HAULOVER PIER, N. MIAMI BEACH | Feb/2019 |... 26 Tue 1:54 2.1 2:04 2.0 7:48 27
US HARBORS 28
Thu
4:01
1.9
4:09
1.8
9:53
PM
ft
12:05
-0.3
12:50
-0.3
2:11
-0.3
3:23
-0.1
4:31
0.1
5:47
0.2
7:32
0.3
9:41
-0.3
1:32
-0.3
2:47
-0.2
3:57
-0.0
5:07
0.2
6:35
0.3
8:35
0.2
10:45
-0.1 -0.1 -0.1 -0.1 -0.1
-0.8
2:52
-0.6
4:33
-0.2
6:19
5:24
6:07
-0.1
1:10
-0.4
7:01
-0.1
-0.7
3:42
0.0
0.1
-0.1
12:16
-0.8
6:05
-0.0
11:44
2:01
SET
7:02
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-0.0
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0.2
-0.2 -0.4 -0.6 -0.2 -0.4 -0.6 -0.7 -0.7 -0.7 -0.6 -0.4
7:02 7:01 7:00 6:59 6:59 6:58 6:58 6:57 6:56 6:56 6:55 6:54 6:53 6:53 6:52 6:51 6:50 6:49 6:49 6:48 6:47 6:46
MOON
6:06 6:07 6:08 6:09 6:10 6:10 6:11 6:12 6:12 6:13 6:14 6:14 6:15 6:15 6:16 6:17 6:17 6:18 6:19 6:19 6:20 6:20
-0.0 7:16 -0.3 6:45 6:21 https://fl.usharbors.com/monthly-tides/Florida-South/Haulover Pier... 0.2 8:16 -0.1 6:44 6:21 0.3 0.3
9:18
10:17
-0.0 -0.0
6:43 6:42
6:22 6:23
Start Your FREE Membership | Login
Haulover Inlet Tides Local Time
© US Harbors
Haulover Pier, N. Miami Beach Tides - Feb/2019
Tidal Data Source: MIAMI BEACH, GOVERNMENT CUT (8723178)
25°54'N 80°7'W
DATE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
1 of 1
15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
HIGH AM
Fri
6:04
Sun
7:28
Tue
8:41
Thu
9:50
Sat
6:48
Mon
8:06
Wed
9:16
Fri
10:23
Sun
11:33
Tue
12:58
Thu
3:01
Sat
5:09
Mon
6:59
Wed
8:38
Fri
10:14
Sun
11:53
Tue
1:35
Thu
3:45
Sat
10:57
Mon
12:07
Wed
1:57
Fri
4:07
Sun
6:06
Tue
7:50
Thu
9:26
Sat
11:03
Mon
12:35
Wed
2:40
ft
LOW PM
2.3
6:05
2.4
7:31
2.5
8:48
2.4
10:03
2.3
11:22
2.2
12:14
2.1
1:58
2.3
4:11
2.7
6:16
3.0
8:07
3.1
9:52
2.3
6:50
2.4
8:10
2.5
9:25
2.4 2.2
10:42
2.1
1:01
2.2
3:03
2.5
5:15
2.8
7:12
3.1
8:59
3.0
10:44
2.8
11:38
2.6
12:47
2.2
2:49
2.6 2.4
1:46
2.2
3:52
Local Time
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
400_Miami_FINAL.indd 7
ft
AM
2.1
12:18
2.2
1:42
2.3
2:57
2.3
4:09
2.1 2.2
1:02
2.3
2:20
2.3
3:33
2.2
4:47
2.1
6:12
2.0
8:02
2.2
10:11
5:27
2.1
7:03
2.1
9:06
2.3
11:13
2.7
12:31
3.0
2:19
2.9
4:02
2.5 2.9
1:26
3.0
3:10
2.7
4:54
2.4
6:44
2.0
8:47
5:47
2.2
7:44
2.0
9:52
ft
PM 12:08
-0.3
12:53
-0.3
2:12
-0.2
3:23
-0.1
4:33
0.1
5:50
0.3
7:28
0.3
9:30
-0.3
1:34
-0.3
2:48
-0.2
3:58
0.0
5:10
0.2
6:35
0.3
8:27
0.2
10:33
0.0
11:34
-0.7
1:06
-0.8
2:48
-0.6
4:28
-0.2
6:12
0.2
8:07
0.4
10:10
12:11
-0.8
1:58
-0.7
3:38
-0.4
5:19
0.0
7:08
0.3
9:09
© US Harbors
RISE
SET
0.2
7:02
6:05
0.1
7:01
6:06
ft
0.1 0.0
-0.0 -0.0 -0.0 -0.0 -0.0 -0.0 -0.0 -0.1 -0.1 -0.2 -0.4 -0.5 -0.2 -0.4 -0.5 -0.6 -0.7 -0.6 -0.5 -0.4 -0.2 -0.1 0.0 0.0
7:02 7:01 7:00 7:00 6:59 6:58 6:58 6:57 6:56 6:56 6:55 6:54 6:53 6:53 6:52 6:51 6:50 6:49 6:49 6:48 6:47 6:46 6:45 6:44 6:43 6:42
MOON
6:06 6:07 6:08 6:09 6:09 6:10 6:11 6:11 6:12 6:13 6:13 6:14 6:15 6:15
1/17/19, 10:22 AM
6:16 6:17 6:17 6:18 6:18 6:19 6:20 6:20 6:21 6:21 6:22 6:22
Tidal Data Source: HAULOVER PIER, N. MIAMI BEACH (8723080)
FEBRUARY 2019
GREATER MIAMI 7
1/20/19 2:15 PM
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forecastS
KAYAK
fISHING
T
he Extreme Kayak Fishing Sailfish Smackdown kicked off at Bru’s Room in Pompano Beach Friday night January 11th. Some of the best kayak anglers from around the country came to register for the tournament and take part in the huge raffle, which benefited the Broward Children’s Center. The Broward Children’s Center helps support a cause that provides homes to some of the most technologically dependent children in the country and addresses the educational, social and medical needs of both typically developing and special needs children. Due to bad weather the following day, in the interest of safety, EKFT officials decided to make the tournament a one day event taking place on Sunday January 13th. Sunday morning the anglers congregated south of the Pompano Beach Pier where they fueled up on coffee and donuts
Robwil Valderrey won the Sailfish Smackdown with his early catch and release.
provided by Dandee Donuts while being checked in by EKFT officials and the US Coast Guard to make sure they were in compliance with equipment and safety. Local Miami angler Robwil Valderrey was the first to catch and release a sailfish about an hour after the 7:30am shoot off. He kept his lead throughout the day over the other competitors, earning
him the Sailfish Smackdown Champion title, taking home the $5,000 check donated by RAILBLAZA and Turbo USA, with a beautiful Sailfish trophy made by Global Fishmounts. Just minutes before the 3pm lines out time, Shaun Roles snagged his trophy sailfish putting him in second place with a nice $2,000 check provided by Nautical Ventures.
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400_Miami_FINAL.indd 9
Ivy Harris was rewarded $500 for his beautiful mahi mahi catch, and took the Nautical Ventures Dolphin Division prize. Seasoned angler Brian Nelli won the Kingfish Calcutta and received $1,200 Cash! The winners were celebrated at the Beach House Pompano Beach Sunday evening after competition. Free food and drinks were awaiting all the hungry participants, as they were greeted VIP style at the beautiful restaurant overlooking the ocean. What a perfect ending to a great weekend of competition. Next up, the Summer Slam Series scheduled for June 22nd and August 10th, 2019! Registration is now open! For more information on the Sailfish Smackdown or the Summer Slam Series, visit us online at www. extremekayakfishing.com.
Joe Hector 954-895-4527 Extreme Kayak Fishing Inc. www.extremekayakfishing.com joe@extremekayakfishing.com
FEBRUARY 2019
GREATER MIAMI 9
1/20/19 2:15 PM
FRESH
WATER
G
forecastS to target big fish, now is the time! My number one hotspot of the week is Holiday Park. The rest stop on I-75 at mile marker 35 is next, followed by Sawgrass and Holey Lands. Lake Okeechobee is at the bottom of the list this month due to all of the spaying that is being done to control invasive, non native plants. While trying to spray the non native plants, they've killed so much of the native grasses that the lake has turned into mud. Unfortunately, much of the muddy water gets pumped east or west and is certainly contributing to the decline of the estuaries and coast lines. There are efforts being put in place to help. Just hope it's not to late. Til next time, tight lines.
Capt. Drew with a beautiful cold front bass.
rab your rod, grab your gear! Right now the fishing is legit! With the cold fronts starting to come through more regularly this time of year, the water temperatures decrease. This causes the big females to go into pre spawn mode and they begin to feed up as they prepare for the spawn. With all the females on the move, many of the big males will begin cruising around too, looking for a mate. Both are burning lots of calories, making for a lot of hungry bass. Basically, the makings of some red hot fishing. Also to the anglers advantage, this year the water levels are dropping, making the flats hard to enter and pushing all the fish into the canals. Capt. Neal Stark This scenario concentrates the fish (954) 822-1481 in smaller areas. Fishing with America’s Finest, Inc. The best way to target these fish 501(C)(3) Non-Profit Organization, FEIN #45-5494005 is with moving baits or search baits www.FishingwithAmericasFinest.org such as crankbaits, swim baits, jerk fwaforg@gmail.com baits, American Everglades Guide, Inc. burner worms or swim jigs. Work www.AmericanEvergladesGuide.com the edges of the canals! If you like aeguideinc@gmail.com
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Fish or Fiction? By Michael Walrath
Welcome to the Dance
M
ere months since his first fish on fly, Scotty already fished at a level few ever experience. His technical skills were only slightly better than average, but he practiced a mindfulness which allowed a meditation of sorts, while fishing. Muscle memory flawlessly executed long, tightlooped casts as he subconsciously played each breeze, swell and strike with calm perfection. Most importantly, the fish welcomed him now. The sun was low and pale over the ocean when he arrived at Jupiter Island. He launched his kayak and paddled into an east wind that promised to pile bait against the beach. Drawn by reports of the mullet run, excited but calm, Scotty pushed through the light surf. The sky was gray and the ocean breeze cool and slippery against his face. Black and white gulls screeching above the rolling swells and tell-tale splashes and swirls confirmed the reports. The mullet run was on. The feeding was most concentrated in the surf zone, so he paddled back to fish from the beach. An endless school of bluefish rolled with each swell. After dragging his yak up the beach, Scotty strapped on his stripping basket. As far as he could see to the north and south, the surf boiled with feeding fish. He admired the powerful blues slashing through the faces of each curling wave and the occasional explosions of large sharks and other fish. The waves shined metallic with mullet. Scotty approached an old castnetter, throwing for bait. “Hola, mind of I take a look?” Scotty pointed to his eye and then toward the net. The old man nodded and watched curiously as Scotty plucked a finger mullet from the net. He opened
a case of large streamer flies, arranged by color from pale white and silver, to deep blue, green and gold. Holding the fish against the spectrum of neatly arranged flies, he selected a perfect match and held it up for the old man’s approval. The man smiled broadly and nodded in agreement. “Muchas gracias, Señor” Scotty said as he tossed the mullet into the old man’s bucket. “ Buena suerte, amigo!” the man called after him. Walking up the empty beach, Scotty tied on his fly and stripped 50 feet of line into his basket. Casting the lead sinking line into the wind was effortless. His back-casts straightened behind him then the heavy leaden loops carved forward, sucking all the line from his basket like the crack of a whip. He delivered his perfectly matched pattern into the nervous water behind a breaking swell and the ocean erupted. His rod doubled, and the drag sang as a fierce bluefish sent another 50 feet of line shooting through the guides. Scotty’s blind faith that fly fishing would deliver the richest satisfaction he’d ever known was fast approaching fruition. Every day felt perfect. He walked the beach in a now-familiar contented trance, catching a blue or pompano on nearly every cast and wondered what else he could achieve in this state of mind. Scotty felt that here, he could fix anything, maybe even everything. Deep in self-reflection he delivered a cast to a spot where the waves didn’t break and imagined what the deeper cut below might hold. As he stripped his sardine toward him two feet at a time, the flat surface bulged as a massive form rose from the deep, catching the
sun. What started as a faint glow, quickly became the silver, saucer-sized scales of a tarpon as round as a telephone pole. It rolled but didn’t take the fly. Scotty’s heart skipped a beat as the long black dorsal fin and powerful tail slashed the surface then disappeared. Unprepared for the massive fish’s appearance, Scotty was thankful he didn’t hook it. Adrenaline shook his hands as he walked down the beach to sit next to his kayak in the warming sand. What would have happened if he’d hooked such a fish? He scooped handfuls of the dry brown sand, flecked with orange and white flakes of crushed seashells, watching it filter through his fingers like an hourglass. How long must he fear exactly what he wanted? Daydreaming about the tarpon beneath the waves and the demons lurking beneath his own surface, Scotty wondered if the magnificent fish held a deeper meaning. It had appeared like a beautiful mermaid just as he peered into his own mind. As he pondered, his eyes were drawn back to the sea as if called by a mysterious voice. Just then, an explosive sucking sound popped and splashed like an invisible cinder block had dropped from the sky. Suddenly two giant swirling rolls alerted him to tarpon corralling a school of mullet thirty yards offshore. The water trembled then erupted, slinging mullet in every direction. Long black fins and powerful tails circled the school and slashed through its center. A six-foot tarpon launched into the air in a full somersault, surrounded by writhing bait, seeming to momentarily defy gravity before landing on its back with a huge splash. Mesmerized, Scotty stood, eyes sharply fixed on the feeding tarpon as he dragged his kayak toward the surf.
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400_Miami_FINAL.indd 11
FEBRUARY 2019
!
GREATER MIAMI 11
1/20/19 2:15 PM
! g with 0KB) alonw!) — 0 5 TCH PHOTOS t s A a C le YOUR (and ho otos (at
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caught h an African pompano Hector Martinez wit . ine rd live sa off Miami Beach on a
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400_Miami_FINAL.indd 12
is er caught th Jamie Bak . pt a C o. nd it e bon Fever a over on a liv Hunter La er off Haul pp na s ra e 87lb cub
1/20/19 2:15 PM
Grouper Closures In Florida Waters
G
ag grouper closed to recreational harvest in Gulf state and federal waters Jan. 1. The same day, several species of grouper closed to recreational and commercial harvest in Florida state waters of the Atlantic and all state waters off Monroe County. This Atlantic seasonal closure includes: gag, black, red, FWC Photo yellowmouth and yellowfin grouper; scamp; red hind; rock hind; coney; and graysby. A similar closure is in place in Atlantic federal waters. For gag grouper, state waters off Franklin, Wakulla, Taylor and Jefferson counties will reopen to harvest April 1 through June 30 and Sept. 1 through Dec. 31. All other Gulf state waters (except waters off Monroe County, which follows the Atlantic state season) and all Gulf federal waters will reopen June 1 through Dec. 31. In the Atlantic and state waters off Monroe County, several species of grouper, including gag, will reopen May 1.
The World’s Largest Nautical Swap Shop This once a year event is a treasure trove for boating & outdoor enthusiasts. The Dania Marine Flea Market provides a pleasant, almost party-like atmosphere, ideal for buyers and sellers to engage in friendly and sometimes, intense bargaining. Explore four acres of amazing products from over 300 vendors, all at flea market prices.
Grouper information, including Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico grouper regulations, is available online. Go to MyFWC.com/Fishing and select “Saltwater Fishing Regulations” then “Groupers” under the “Reef Fish” tab.
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Limited booth spaces are available, starting at $220. © 2015 American Honda Motor Co., Always wear a personal flotation device while boating and read your owner’s manual. All Honda outboards meet EPA and CARB emission levels.
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CA_HMY_SFL 1_19 submission.qxp_Layout 1 1/17/19 1:12 PM Page 1
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“REEL LUCKY” 52’ 1989 HATTERAS CALL GREG HUNT: 561.926.8017
“FISHIZZLE” 51’ 2002 BERTRAM CALL JOEL DE LOS REYES: 954.303.9764
“SALT CRACKER” 48’ 2005 CAVILEER CALL MARK MITCHELL: 407.435.6982
“PRIVATEER” 48’ 2003 VIKING CALL DAVE MEYER: 561.722.1047
“UNCORKED” 45’ 2000 CABO CALL MATT LONG: 954.682.5250
“JWILAVI” 43’ 2012 INTREPID CALL JAY JURGENS: 954.263.7186
42’ 2011 VIKING CALL BRIAN WEAVER: 561.308.0939
“ISLANDER” 36’ 2006 MILLER CALL MIKE SCALISI: 954.650.3706
“SEAMILEY” 35’ 2014 CALYBER CALL BRIAN KOMER: 305.304.1015
“SPYDER” 34’ 2007 FOUNTAIN CALL JOEL DE LOS REYES: 954.303.9764
“REEL EASY” 32’ 2003 ALBEMARLE CALL GEORGE BECK: 954.612.1433
“OFFSHORE FEVER” 32’ 2001 TOPAZ CALL GEORGE BECK: 954.612.1433
“THE SHOCK” 31’ 2005 JUPITER CALL BRIAN NOPPER: 954.325.6000
31’ 2008 LUHRS CALL BRAD CURTIN: 631.834.6560
“BARNACLE” 25’ 1969 BERTRAM CALL LUKE DAVIS: 561.310.7450
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r spread boats—from yachts and catamarans, to offshore fishing boats and family cruisers, plus the latest marine technology, gear and accessories from more than 1,000 exhibitors. In addition to the thousands of boats and boating products for sale, 2019 Miami Boat Show highlights include plenty of opportunities to get out on the water—from test drives to boating lessons; an exclusive VIP experience with private access to the show’s VIP lounge; the return of Strictly Sail Miami; and top-of-the-line food and beverage options.
C
ome February, Miami becomes the hot spot for hundreds of thousands looking to escape the winter blues, and the place to be for a host of high-profile events, including the Progressive Insurance Miami International Boat Show. As one of the most attended and influential boating events in the world with an economic impact of $854 million, the iconic Miami Boat Show draws more than 100,000 people to the Magic City annually and provides an island oasis to enjoy the boating lifestyle. The 2019 Miami Boat Show, cruising into Miami Marine Stadium Park and Basin Feb. 14-18, promises an experience for buyers and dreamers alike, showcasing thousands of the newest boats and sail-
Transportation: Getting to the Miami Boat Show has never been easier! • Plan your travel to the show by visiting www.MiamiBoatShow.com • New for 2019! Take the new Brightline train from Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach. • Transportation options for locals and out of town guests include water taxi and shuttle bus service from downtown Miami, the Miami Metrorail and off-island parking. Where: Miami Marine Stadium Park & Basin, 3501 Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami, FL 33149 Show Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily Admission: Premier Day (Feb. 14) - $40 Adult (age 13+) - $25 Two-Day Pass - $45 Five-Day Pass - $100 Child (12 & under) – FREE VIP Experience - $150; $175 on Premier Day (Feb. 14) Tickets are available at http://www.miamiboatshow.com/tickets-and-parking Accommodations: Visit www.MiamiBoatShow.com/accomodations to book rooms at the best rates through the boat show’s official housing partner, OnPeak. Learn More and Stay Connected: www.MiamiBoatShow.com, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram: #MiamiBoatShow. Show office phone: (954) 441-3220.
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CANGL_FL1-FL16.indd 13
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Pro Surfer and avid fisherman Cory Lopez is always happy when his sub is fresh and dry.
Tired of soggy sandwiches? Waterproof, crushproof, and it floats.
Reel in the memories. Sitting on the most biodiverse estuary in the Northern Hemisphere, Martin County is a fisherman’s paradise. Ocean, lake and river ecosystems are home to more than 800 species of fish, from the ever-popular sailfish and snook to largemouth bass and perch. Forget your gear? Visit one of
SubSafe® is BPA Free and is the same plastic that is used for baby bottles. SubSafe can also be used as a cup or bowl, or after finishing your fresh, delicious sandwich, it can keep your keys, wallet, and phone safe. Whether it’s out on the water, at the park, or in the break room, SubSafe keeps your sub sandwich safe, never soggy.
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Martin’s many bait and tackle shops or outdoor retailers. Inshore, offshore, saltwater or fresh, head out for an adventure and reel in the memories.
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he Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council would like to gain a better understanding of yellowtail snapper in the Southeast region of the United States. It is seeking information from anglers and divers about trends or “strange things” that scientists and managers may need to know. A scientific stock assessment of yellowtail is scheduled to begin in February of 2019, and the council would like to know if you have noticed anything “fishy” about yellowtail, or yellowtail fishing, in recent years. The information provided will help inform scientists and managers as they formulate a current understanding of the yellowtail stock. Please visit our “Something’s Fishy About Yellowtail Snapper” questionnaire at http://gulfcouncil.org before Feb. 8 to report anything you’ve noticed about yellowtail in the Gulf of Mexico. Contact Emily.Muehlstein@gulfcouncil.org with questions.
Photo by Andy Blackledge
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FISH & FISHING
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onsider this an important decision. Other than deciding whether or not to use one, a surprising number of anglers seldom give leaders much thought. As long as there is some type of buffer against the deadly dentures of some species or the abrasive hide of others, fishermen tend to be satisfied. Their attention shifts to other aspects of the sport. Choosing the right material and proper construction for an effective leader are some of the most overlooked challenges in rigging. The ultimate, of course, centers on fishing a light line without a leader. That seldom is possible on the saltwater scene. Experience will prove to you that the fish you hook has teeth, abrasive skin, or the bottom is rugged. Any of these factors will end the battle almost before it starts. The general rule is that the heavier the leader material, the fewer strikes you will get. The solution demands a compromise. You want the strongest leader possible without sacrificing too many strikes. Monofilament leader invariably produces more strikes than single strand wire or nylon coated wire. Sometimes you have to use wire or every fish of a given species will cut you off. When you do use wire, rely on the shortest length that will produce favorable results. For offshore trolling, a short length of wire makes it easier to rig a bait. Some anglers even insist that a skipping offering being trolled works better if there is a short length of wire in front of it. The length of the leader is equally significant. From
MARK SOSIN a protective standpoint, if the species you seek has an abrasive body, the leader should be longer than the average fish you might catch. Then, when the fish is moving away from you and the line streams over its back, you have the protective advantage of a leader. This part of the leader does not have to be as heavy as the short length around its mouth and gills, but it should be stronger than the line. Fly fishermen become aware of a leader’s importance very quickly. In that type of fishing, the leader helps to turn over the fly properly so it lands on the water delicately. In very clear and shallow water, a longer leader enables the caster to enjoy a more delicate presentation where the fly line lands farther from the fish. This is particularly important on the saltwater flats for a variety of species including bonefish, permit, tarpon and redfish. Fly leaders take many basic forms, but the most important thing to remember is that each succeeding section should be shorter than the one before. The majority of tournaments and all recordkeeping organizations establish specific leader requirements. It makes sense to study them before you decide to compete or fish for a record. Leaders are a critical part of rigging each outfit you use. Cutting corners or ignoring details can be a serious mistake. If you lose a trophy fish because of a faulty leader, you’ll have a hard time forgiving yourself.
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Queen Conch In The Bahamas Sheri Daye
W
hile hunting for that perfect fish for dinner, you sometimes run across other tasty treats. One of my favorites is from the Bahamas: the famous queen conch. This creature is as delicious as it is beautiful and deserves to be treated with great respect. Their slow growth and late maturation makes them susceptible to overfishing. Once abundant in the Florida Keys, it became illegal to harvest them in the 1980s when they were harvested to the point of collapse. It’s taken quite a few years to see the beginning of a comeback, but they will likely need continued protection for years to come in the U.S. In the Bahamas, the importance of this valuable resource has been realized and rules are in place to protect it. The recreational limit is six, and they must have a thick, well-formed lip—meaning they had a chance to grow into adulthood and reproduce. Also, they must be harvested while freediving. Inside the conch shell is a soft-bodied mollusk, which is in the same family as clams, oysters, octopi and squid. They live near coral reefs and seagrass beds and can reach up to 14 inches long. Besides humans, they have a few predators in the water—loggerhead turtles, nurse sharks, spiny lobsters and more. The meat has been consumed for centuries by islanders in the Caribbean and serves in a multitude of dishes such as salads, chowders and fritters.
Conch Tips:
1) Regulations are subject to change so double check before harvesting any marine life. 2) When diving, it is easy to see that in certain places in the Bahamas, especially close to highly populated areas, the conch are 16
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not as abundant. Do not take any from these areas, even if it’s legal. 3) They are easy to spot and move slowly, so use good judgement. Target mature adults that have reproduced and are toward the end of their lifecycle. Consider taking less than the legal limit. 4) The mollusk is not easy to extract or to clean, so if you don’t know how, make sure you have a professional on hand at the end of the day to help you or teach you. 5) Don’t forget to check for pearls in the mantle. These pink pearls are beautiful and more rare than traditional pearls. 6) The inedible part of the conch (the guts, also called “slop”) makes excellent bait for fishing, especially for mutton snappers. Nothing goes to waste! 7) You might (or might not) want to eat the pistol, also known as “Bahamian Viagra.” It is part of the conch’s digestive system and looks like a clear noodle. 8) The Bahamas exports conch to the U.S., but bringing your own conch meat back to the U.S. by boat is strictly prohibited. Safe diving and Happy Hunting! Sheri is a world-record holder, host of Speargun Hunter, and producer of “The Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo” in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Follow “Sheri Daye” and “The Blue Wild” on Facebook and Instagram.
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As fisherman, we all know how hard live bait can be to find. Seasonal weather patterns change the way fish are biting, so a variety of bait is key. Bait fishing is so important that fishermen spend weeks prior to tournaments catching bait and then keep them penned up all for a couple epic days of fishing. The last thing you want is for your bait to die because of a pump failure. At Hooker Electric, we have designed a durable, strong and long-lasting baitwell system. This system is capable of supplying multiple livewells with its adequate DC brushless motor. You will no longer need multiple pumps to supply each livewell. Now, by adding the Hooker Electric custom manifolds, you can divert water to the designated wells by adjusting the amount of water flow to each well with our variable flow knobs. This allows you to run all of the wells from one Hooker Electric pump and have another one for redundancy. The system is easy to use with the variable flow dial, without having to restrict the pump. This Hooker Electric livewell system is a plumb-andplay setup with a variety of sizes. It’s available in 2500, 4500 and 7500 GPH and we also offer an on/off feature for the pumps. For more information, visit www.hookerelectric.com or check out their Instagram page @Hookerelectric_pumps.
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Tim Barefoot
he older I get, the more I like to fish inshore for all the usual suspects from the Northeast, down through the Carolinas all the way to the Keys. From stripers and specks, to drum and snook, every fish loves a shrimp or minnow imitation under a float. And this includes many freshwater predators. I always keep a float rig tied on when fishing inside. Popping, cigar and oval floats all have their place, and an added “clicking” sound adds value, especially when fishing a soft plastic shrimp under the float. There are plenty of commercially available floats, but I want to share a simple and effective way to achieve the same end result… and one that will rarely foul or tangle. Whether the beads are external or internal, the clicking sound is perfectly married with the splashing sound that drives fish bananas. To make the simple external-bead-style clicking float, view the video below. Allow 1/16- to 1/8-inch clearance (total, not both ends) between the beads and ends of the pegs to allow the beads to tap the plastic pegs. Follow the instructions below to make the internal-bead-style clicking float. Materials: 80-pound fluorocarbon; small plastic beads, like those found in sliding cork kits; small swivels; a commercially available foam slip cork with plastic pegs. Steps: • Thread braided mainline through the plastic peg and one of the small beads. • Feed the mainline through to the other side of the slip cork and then tie it to one side of the swivel. • For the other side, thread a fluorocarbon leader through the other peg, thread on a small bead and tie it to the other end of the swivel.
• Press one peg securely into the slip cork, and then pull the bead and swivel into the float’s interior channel. • Press the second peg into the cork, and your slip cork is now a clicking float. The tiny beads slide back and forth on the line to tap the plastic pegs inside the float. • Tie a 3/8-ounce jig head and a soft plastic shrimp onto the leader, and… just add water. There are a number of opinions on how deep to fish below the cork. I like between 18 and 24 inches of fluorocarbon, depending on water depth. This same tackle works extremely well in freshwater for striped and hybrid bass in moving water. Just use a fluke-style soft plastic instead of a shrimp. The largest largemouth bass I caught this year was under cigar float with an internal clicker. I was fishing a Super Fluke for striped bass. Smallmouth bass in rocky rivers are complete idiots over this same rig. Wherever you are, and whatever you’re fishing for, a float rig is something you should keep tied and ready on the deck. Visit Barefootcatsandtackle.com. For video instructions on making a clicking cork, see:
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nglers are catching a lot of big largemouths in Texas. Last year’s Toyota ShareLunker Program, which tracks bass heavier than 8 pounds, certified 486 bass caught from 89 Texas lakes in 2018, and that’s just the fish that were reported. At the beginning of 2018, the Toyota ShareLunker program debuted a new year-long season for anglers to enter bass for prizes, recognition, and to help enhance bass fishing in Texas. Anglers entered largemouths into four categories including six “Legacy Class” bass of 13 pounds or heavier that were entered during the spawning window Jan.1 through March 31 and loaned to TPWD for the selective breeding and stocking program. The total number of entries in other categories who provided citizen science data included: five “Lunker Legend” bass 13 pounds or heavier caught outside the spawning window or not loaned for spawning, 107 “Lunker Elite” bass weighing 10 to 12.99 pounds, and 368 “Lunker” bass at least 24 inches or weighing between 8 and 9.99 pounds. The top five ShareLunker producing lakes in 2018 included Lake Fork near Quitman with 73 entries, Lake Conroe near Houston with 41 entries, Lake Athens in Athens with 28 entries, Sam Rayburn Reservoir near Jasper with 21 entries, and O.H. Ivie Lake near San Angelo with 17 entries. For updates on the Toyota ShareLunker program visit https:// www.facebook.com/ShareLunkerprogram and https://texassharelunker.com/.
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FRESHWATER Nevada’s WORLD-CLASS CUTTHROAT
T
he International Game Fish Association (IGFA) keeps the most extensive list of fishing records in the world. With categories for all types of tackle and species, some records are more impactful than others. This potential all-tackle length world record for cutthroat trout is without a doubt an impressive fish. Adam Garcia caught and released this giant cutthroat on Nov. 11, 2018 while fishing Nevada’s Pyramid Lake. The fish measured 85 centimeters in length, or more than 33 inches. Once the paperwork clears, the fish could dethrone the old 81-centimeter length record. Garcia is no newcomer to the record books. According to IGFA records, he holds four line-class world records for weight, all cutthroats caught from Pyramid Lake in 2016 and 2017. Some of those were actually longer than his Nov. 11 fish. The biggest one, which holds the 16-lb. line class record, weighed 24 pounds. Pyramid Lake is a large and natural desert lake near the California border northeast of Reno. It is the world hotspot for giant cutthroat trout, where anglers can wade from shore and cast jigs for record-class fish. Every single one of IGFA’s line class cutthroat records were caught from Pyramid, as well as the all tackle world record, which was caught back in 1925 by John Skimmerhorn.
Surprising Winter is the Best Planting Time
I am often asked when is the best time to plant fruiting plants. My answer is usually the same; the best time is 20 years ago or today. The second best time to plant is during the winter months. Plants are dormant, and can be easily shipped and planted with no stress on the plant because there is not a lot of maintenance once the plant or tree has been planted. Simply dig a good hole, water thoroughly
at planting, and take the rest of the winter off. Even though there are no signs of growth above ground, the root systems will have time to get adjusted to their new location and begin to initiate new root growth. There are plenty of advantages of growing your own edibles. First of all, you know what has been done over the course of the growing season from a chemical stand point. Second, the fruit just taste
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better coming out of your home orchard versus buying fruit from the grocers that have little to no flavors. Thirdly, it is good for your soul and you will feel more connected to the environment and nature. Whether it is an apple tree, muscadine vine or a blueberry bush; now is the time to plant. Let’s Grow Together. Greg Ison, Ison’s Nursery and Vineyards, 800733-0324, www.isons.com
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TIPS FROM A PRO
Cold-Water Bassin' BRANDON LESTER
F
ebruary is one of those transition months. Spring is just around the corner, and it might have already arrived in some places, but it’s still wintertime for most of the country’s bass fisheries. Bass are cold-blooded animals, which means the colder the water is, the more the fish’s core body temperature decreases. That also means the fish’s metabolism slows down. Metabolism is the chemical processes that occur which allow the fish to maintain life, grow, heal and make energy. Humans are warm blooded, so our body temperature stays a steady 98.6 degrees. A fish’s temperature drops with the water temp, which makes them more sluggish the colder it gets. If you’re like me, you’re ready to eat three meals a day and some snacks 365 days a year. It’s different with fish. In warm water, fish feed every day, throughout the day and into the night. In the winter they don’t feed nearly as often. One reason is they don’t move around as much, so they don’t come into contact with prey. Fish feed-up heavily in the fall when the water is still warm to put on weight. Bait is plentiful then, and instinctually they feel cold weather coming. I have way more 20- and 30-fish days in spring than winter. You’re not likely set any records for fish catches in cold water. Fish bite for two basic reasons, either because they’re hungry and the bait looks like food or because the bait has come into their territory
and they instinctively attack it. Reaction strikes are greatly reduced during the winter. In water mid-50 degrees and lower, you really need to make the fish want to eat in order to catch them. I try and fish the warmest water on a lake, as fish in these areas will be more active. A couple degrees in water temperature can make all the difference. Slower-moving baits work best for cold-water bass. I like baits that stay in one place and can be worked slowly, like a jig. A suspending jerkbait with Mustad KVD trebles will hang in one place, hopefully right in front of their face. Use lighter line in cold water, as it allows the bait to move more realistically. Eight or 10-pound Vicious fluorocarbon is preferable on a jerkbait. Objects in the water, especially rocks, retain heat. On sunny days, the shallow water near rocks on the bank will often be warmer. Keep in mind that fish don’t bite nearly as hard in cold water. You will feel them kind of “load up” on the bait instead of slamming it. The fish are just picking up the bait and doing as little as possible to catch it. Those “light bites” increase the importance of having a sensitive rod. I build my own rods and will tell you that MHX Rods from Mud Hole Custom Tackle help me catch more fish, especially in cold water. Higher quality graphite makes a more sensitive rod. MHX Rods are much more affordable and the quality is better than a vast majority of rods out there. For extremely light bites, I recommend the NEPS series of blanks built with Winn Grips.
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99
ITEM 60388/69514 shown
*75406033 * 75406033
COMPARE TO
Blade sold separately.
ITEM 69580/61939/62884/62890 shown
*75405457 * 75405457
$3 99
SAVE $ 99
3089 SAVE
MODEL: 12865
*75405358 * 75405358
NOW
12499
$
COMPARE TO
GOODYEAR
Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
$9999
2399
Customer Rating
MODEL 9800
99 $1 09 $14999
ITEM 67646/63418/63419/63417 shown
LIMIT 8 - Coupon valid through 6/3/19*
10" SLIDING COMPOUND MITER SAW • Powerful 15 amp motor NOW Customer Rating
$
NOW
99 $1 09 SAVE 189
MODEL: XE M17
YELLOW
ITEM 56239 64720 shown
$1 999
• 50-3/8" L 13-5/8" W 5-1/8" H
NOW $
ITEM 56238 64722 shown
NOW
SUPER COUPON
29 PIECE 17 FT. TYPE IA TITANIUM MULTI-TASK LADDER DRILL BIT SET • Versatile - 24 configurations NOW
ORANGE
$189
LIMIT 9 - Coupon valid through 6/3/19*
Customer Rating
ITEM 56237 64721 shown
21999 YOUR CHOIC99E
*75402525 * 75402525 SUPER COUPON
3/8" x 50 FT. INDUSTRIAL GRADE RUBBER AIR HOSE
Customer Rating
GREEN
LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 6/3/19*
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
BLACK
ITEM 64032 64030 64033 shown
*75402423 * 75402423
COMPARE TO
BLUE
ITEM 64031
ITEM 64061 64059 64060 shown
119
COMPARE TO
LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 6/3/19*
SUPER COUPON
RED
Customer Rating
21499
*75402419 * 75402419
99
99
$
ITEM 63022
LIMIT 9 - Coupon valid through 6/3/19*
Customer Rating
99
334
MODEL: E43, EA6F
ITEM 62434, 62426, 62433, 62432, 62429, 64178, 64179, 62428 shown
MODEL: 25521
99 $1 79
EARTHQUAKE $ 98
SAVE 54%
VALEO $ 02
NOW
COMPARE TO
*75401515 * 75401515
NOW
• Drill speeds up to 320 RPM Customer Rating
SAVE $ 154
99
30", 5 DRAWER AMMO DRY BOX MECHANIC'S CARTS
8 GALLON, 2 HP, 125 PSI PORTABLE OIL-LUBE AIR COMPRESSOR NOW
2 HP GAS POWERED EARTH AUGER
NOW
LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 6/3/19*
SUPER COUPON
ITEM 95386 69667/68740 shown
NOW
SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating
*75401056 * 75401056
LIMIT 9 - Coupon valid through 6/3/19*
Customer Rating
MECHANIC'S GLOVES
$ 99
$
*75399843 * 75399843
Limit 1 coupon per customer per day. Save 20% on any 1 item purchased. *Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or any of the following items or brands: Inside Track Club membership, Extended Service Plan, gift card, open box item, 3 day Parking Lot Sale item, compressors, floor jacks, safes, saw mills, storage cabinets, chests or carts, trailers, trencher/backhoe, welders, Admiral, Ames, Bauer, Cobra, CoverPro, Daytona, Diamondback, Earthquake, Fischer, Hercules, Icon, Jupiter, Lynxx, Poulan, Predator, Tailgator, Viking, Vulcan, Zurich. Not valid on prior purchases. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 6/3/19.
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
8750 MAX. STARTING/ Customer Rating 7000 RUNNING WATTS 13 HP (420 CC) GAS GENERATOR
7 FT. 4" x 9 FT. 6" CAMOUFLAGE WEATHER RESISTANT TARP
20% OFF
FREE
1,000+ Stores Nationwide • HarborFreight.com
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
SAVE $65
COMPARE TO
K TOOL $ 68
125
MODEL: KTI63094
NOW
9 $599 $
7999
ITEM 64545/64552/64832 68053/62160/62496/62516/60569 shown
*75409033 * 75409033 LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 6/3/19*
COASTALANGLERMAG.COMAt •Harbor THEANGLERMAG.COM I NATIONAL 25 was Freight Tools, the “Compare to” price means Ithat FEBRUARY the specified comparison,2019 which is an item with the same or similar function, *Original coupon only. No use on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase or without original receipt. Valid through 6/3/19. advertised for sale at or above the “Compare to” price by another national retailer in the U.S. within the past 90 days. Prices advertised by others may vary by location. No other meaning of “Compare to” should be implied. For more information, go to HarborFreight.com or see store associate.
CANGL_NAT3-NAT26.indd 25 hft_coastalangler_0219_M-REG163324.indd 1
1/21/19 10:31 AM 1/2/19 11:24 AM
L E A S S EVEN R E T IN T W With Special Offers For the 2019 Boat Show Season Your Suzuki Marine Dealer has exceptional deals in store for you when you purchase a new Suzuki outboard from 25 to 350 horsepower during the winter Boat Show Season. Get Suzuki’s 3-Year Limited Warranty plus 3 years of Extended Protection at no extra charge.There are Instant Savings on select models, and Low-Rate Financing is also available. See your participating Suzuki Marine dealer for all the details.
INST
SELEC ANT SA VING T SUZ S UKI O UTBO ON ARDS
REPOWER FINANCE
SIX YEARS OF PROTECTION
INSTANT SAVINGS
REPOWER FINANCE
Six Years of Protection at no extra charge on all new outboards 25 to 350 HP.
Instant Savings on select models when you buy at the boat show. See your dealer for details.
Rates as low as 5.99% on new Suzuki outboards on approved credit.* [60 Months]
3 Years Limited Warranty + 3 Years Extended Protection
Gimme Six Extended Protection promo is applicable to new Suzuki Outboard Motors from 25 to 350 HP in inventory which are sold and delivered to buyer between 01/01/19 and 03/31/19 in accordance with the promotion by a Participating Authorized Suzuki Marine dealer in the continental US and Alaska to a purchasing customer who resides in the continental US or Alaska. Customer should expect to receive an acknowledgement letter and full copy of contract including terms, conditions and wallet card from Suzuki Extended Protection within 90 days of purchase. If an acknowledgement letter is not received in time period stated, contact Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. – Marine Marketing via email: marinepromo@suz.com. The Gimme Six Promotion is available for pleasure use only, and is not redeemable for cash. Instant Savings apply to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki Outboard Motors made between 01/01/19 and 03/31/19. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine.com. Instant Savings must be applied against the agreed-upon selling price of the outboard motor and reflected in the bill of sale. (Suzuki will, in turn, credit Dealer’s parts account.) There are no model substitutions, benefit substitutions, rain checks, or extensions. Suzuki reserves the right to change or cancel these promotions at any time without notice or obligation. * Financing offers available through Synchrony Retail Finance. As low as 5.99% APR financing for 60 months on new and unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors. Subject to credit approval. Not all buyers will qualify. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. $19.99/month per $1,000 financed for 60 months is based on 5.99% APR. Hypothetical figures used in calculation; your actual monthly payment may differ based on financing terms, credit tier qualification, accessories or other factors such as down payment and fees. Offer effective on new, unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors purchased from a participating authorized Suzuki dealer between 01/01/19 and 03/31/19. “Gimme Six”, the Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s 26manual. NATIONAL FEBRUARY I COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM © 2019 SuzukiI Motor of America, 2019 Inc.
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1/21/19 10:31 AM
12/9/18 12:09 PM
Progressive Casualty Ins. Co. & affiliates. Annual premium for a basic liability policy not available all states. Prices vary based on how you buy. *Available with comprehensive and collision coverage. COMMON CVRS_0219.indd 3
There’s a reason they say, Curse like a sailor. That’s why we offer basic plans starting at $100 a year with options that won’t depreciate your watercraft and accessories*. 1.800.PROGRESSIVE | PROGRESSIVE.COM
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1/21/19 9:58 AM