Coastal Angler Magazine | March 2020 | Northeast Florida Edition

NORTHEAST FLORIDA EDITION

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Palm Beach International Boat Show March 26-29

PHOTO COURTESY OF GILLZ VOLUME 25 • ISSUE 300

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F R A N C H I S E

O P P O R T U N I T I E S

A V A I L A B L E

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MARCH 2020

THE STRONGEST SPINFISHER YET!!!

The 6th generation Spinfisher is now stronger and more water resistant than ever. With machined CNC gearing and an IPX5 water resistant rating, the newest Spinfisher is ready for anything.

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Progressive Casualty Ins. Co. & affiliates. Annual premium for a basic liability policy not available all states. Prices vary based on how you buy.

There’s a reason they say, Curse like a sailor.

That’s why we offer basic plans starting at $100 a year and options with On-Water Towing.

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The easiest way to find bait when you’re ready to go fishing is by using the new Baitfinder App available for free download on both Apple and Android devices. Bait shops are the best possible resource for local information from what’s biting, and on what bait, to ensure you have the right equipment and knowledge before you head out to target a specific species of fish. Everything about Baitfinder is designed for anglers, by anglers, allowing all bait shops in your area to advertise their bait availability in real-time. There’s no more last-minute anxiety about locating bait or driving all over to locate the bait you’re looking for.

Anglers can reserve their bait of choice prior to getting to their favorite bait shop to pick it up and it’s all easily done on the app! Let your friends know of this free app and encourage all your local bait shops to enroll at: WWW.BAITFINDER.COM

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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OUTDOOR APPAREL REVIEW Gillz 2020 Tournament Series Shirt

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illz has re-invented the original vented fishing shirt, and if you liked the original, you’ll love the new 2020 Tournament Series Shirt.

They took the best features from the original and added a few sweet twists. First, the side vents were re-engineered to pull cooling air more efficiently through and around your body, keeping you cooler than ever.

On top of that, it’s made from the proprietary and innovative GillzTec fabric. This interlocking fabric is engineered to quickly distribute moisture 360 degrees across the garment for better cooling.

Since the moisture spreads throughout the garment, it dries and evaporates much faster, keeping you cool and comfortable and essentially eliminates any sweat spots that would normally appear. In fact, it’s 30 percent cooler than competitors!

Lightweight and providing UPF 50+ protection, the shirt blocks 98 percent of UVA/UVB rays. Plus, it’s chemical free and looks pretty awesome. Gillz. The coolest gear on the planet.

Pelagic Blue Water Fishing Short

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esigned at sea, the Blue Water Fishing Short is your offshore hombre for all things fish. It has four-way stretch for maneuverability, a TightLines internal drawcord for a custom fit, and water repellency with stain guard for the inevitable elements.

Made with REPREVE recycled fibers, this is the gateway short to your bluewater addiction.

Features: • 21” Outseam • 4-Way Stretch Fabric • REPREVE Recycled Fibers • Tightlines Adjustable Waistband • Water Repellency & Stain Guard • Side Zip Cargo Pocket W/ Reinforced Tool Pocket • Mesh Lined Back Zip Pockets

pelagicgear.com

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Reel Angler Saltwater Arm Sleeves

Frogg Toggs Pilot Pro Jacket in Realtree Fishing

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he Frogg Toggs Realtree Pilot PRO Jacket in the Realtree Fishing pattern is designed to handle whatever Mother Nature throws at you.

Internal zips hold the Co-Pilot liner, while the full-front zip closure with splash-proof YKK zippers and internal storm flap keep you dry and warm. A fitted, three-way adjustable and removable hood with full-face closure protects your head and face with the help of the integrated fleece-lined, high-rise collar. An internal storm flap and two-way splash-proof front closure keeps water at bay.

The jacket features an internal, zippered storage pocket and chest storage pockets, as well as zippered, oversized, fleece-lined handwarmer pockets.

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nglers need protection from the sun more than just about anyone. With Real Angler Saltwater Arm Sleeves from Solar Sleeves, you can protect your arms from the sun’s damaging rays and look cool doing it.

With UPF factor of 40+, these sleeves offer excellent solar protection. They are made of super-comfortable stretch fabric that resists slipping for all day comfort on the water. If that wasn’t enough, you can represent your passion while protecting yourself. The vivid sublimation print is sure to be an eye catcher. Go fishing or spend the day on the boat in style with Reel Angler Arm Sleeves in Saltwater print. Retail stores shop online at capsmith.com.

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Secrets of a Billionaire Revealed “Price is what you pay; value is what you get.

Whether we’re talking about socks or stocks, I like buying quality merchandise when it is marked down.”

— wisdom from the most successful investor of all time

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e’re going to let you in on a secret. Billionaires have billions because they know value is not increased by an inflated price.

They avoid big name markups, and aren’t swayed by flashy advertising.

When you look on their wrist you’ll find a classic timepiece, not a cry for attention–– because they know true value comes from keeping more money in their pocket.

We agree with this thinking wholeheartedly. And, so do our two-and-a-half million clients. It’s time you got in on the secret too. The Jet-Setter Chronograph can go up against the best chronographs in the market, deliver more accuracy and style than the “luxury” brands, and all for far, far less. $1,150 is what the Jet-Setter Chronograph would cost you with nothing more than a different name on the face.

With over two million timepieces sold (and counting), we know a thing or two about creating watches people love. The Jet-Setter Chronograph gives you what you need to master time and keeps the superfluous stuff out of the equation. A classic in the looks department and a stainless steel power tool of construction, this is all the watch you need. And, then some.

Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed.

Experience the Jet-Setter Chronograph for 30 days. If you’re not convinced you got excellence for less, send it back for a refund of the item price.

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Hook, Line & Sea Eagle Inflatable Sea Eagle FishSkiff™ 16

The super sleek, super stable inflatable FishSkiff™ 16 holds 1-3 anglers and all their gear. It’s low profile with nearly zero draft make landing fish & shallow water fishing easier and quicker. With a 6hp motor, it can reach 17 mph. Catch fish all day with 1 tank of gas. Add a bow mounted trolling motor for stealthy maneuverability. On shore just deflate & fold it up. Packs small to fit in a car trunk, SUV or RV and stores in a closet.

* 16’ long x 54” wide * Weighs just 99 lbs. (hull only) * Holds up to 3 people or 1765 lbs of people & gear * Inflates & sets up in 17 minutes

* 6 hp Capacity * Motors up to 17 mph * Packs to just 60” x 24” x 12” * Patent Pending

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ach year, millions of collectors and silver stackers around the world secure freshly struck American Eagle Silver Dollars. They are perhaps the most widely collected silver bullion coins in the world, and right now, you can be among the first to secure coins from the U.S. Mint’s brand-new 2020 mintage!

2019 Was a Great Year for Silver. What Will 2020 Hold?

In 2019, silver prices saw a significant increase. Between Sept 2018 and Sept 2019, silver values increased by 25%! No one can say for sure what the future holds, but these freshly struck, 99.9% pure U.S. Silver Dollars are finally available — meaning the time to buy is NOW! $20

Brand-New U.S. Silver Dollars

Each hefty U.S. Silver Dollar contains one Troy ounce of U.S. silver, struck in Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) condition by the United States Mint. The 100-year-old design features a walking Lady Liberty draped in a U.S. flag on one side and a majestic U.S. Eagle and shield on the other. These coins are as beautiful as they are desirable — and when silver prices rise, so does demand for these silver coins!

Final Year of Original Design

After 34 years of the Silver Eagle, the U.S. Mint has announced it will change the reverse design for 2021. That makes the 2020 Silver Eagle the last-year of the original design—something collectors crave!

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GovMint.com • 14101 Southcross Dr. W., Suite 175, Dept. AEB296-04 • Burnsville, MN 55337 GovMint.com® is a retail distributor of coin and currency issues and is not affiliated with the U.S. government. The collectible coin market is unregulated, highly speculative and involves risk. GovMint.com reserves the right to decline to consummate any sale, within its discretion, including due to pricing errors. Prices, facts, figures and populations deemed accurate as of the date of publication but may change significantly over time. All purchases are expressly conditioned upon your acceptance of GovMint.com’s Terms and Conditions (www.govmint.com/terms-conditions or call 1-800-721-0320); to decline, • THEANGLERMAG.COM I MARCH 2020 I NATIONAL return your purchase pursuant to GovMint.com’s Return Policy. © 2020COASTALANGLERMAG.COM GovMint.com. All rights reserved.

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3 6 0 - D E G R E E AC C E S S TO AN OCE AN OF POSSIBILITIES The engineless design of the FSH Series gives owners a spacious stern area, as well as 360-degree uninterrupted access to the water. With enhanced saltwater corrosion protection and a host of fishing and family-friendly features, Yamaha’s 2020 FSH Series is the best way to experience everything the coast has to offer.

YA M A H A B OAT S . C O M

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©2020 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. Follow instructional materials and obey all laws. Drive responsibly, wearing protective apparel.

Always drive within your capabilities, allowing time and distance for maneuvers, and respect others around you. Don’t drink and drive.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT OUR WEBSITE COASTALANGLERMAG.COM AT YAMAHABOATS.COM OR CALL 1.800.88.YAMAHA. NATIONAL MARCH 2020 • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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he International Game Fish Association (IGFA) tracks record fish catches around the globe, and they have been busy. Since December, they have approved 65 new entries, including line class, fly-caught and youth records for different species. More than 30 of those records are all-tackle records, which means they are the largest individuals ever documented with IGFA. Here’s a quick look at some highlights: Tan’s Nile Perch Christopher Tan of Malaysia caught and released an incredible 146-centimeter (4.8-foot) Nile perch to set the IGFA All-Tackle Length World Record. In early August, Tan was casting a Halco Laser Pro 190 in Murchison Falls, Uganda.

Pitman’s Golden Trevally Aussie angler Sahra Pitman caught a beautiful 12.25-kilogram (27-pound, 1-ounce) golden trevally to set the new IGFA Women’s 6-kg (12-lb.) Line Class World Record while fishing in Shark Bay, Western Australia. The record fish hit a McCarthy soft plastic and put up a 20-minute fight. It is currently the largest Line Class record of any received for golden trevally.

Weeks’ Green Humphead Parrotfish Mark Weeks set the bar high with the first green humphead parrotfish submitted for an IGFA All-Tackle World Record, with a massive 46.35-kilogram (102-pound, 3-ounce) fish he caught and released while fly fishing the flats of Providence, Seychelles. The record parrotfish sucked up a crab pattern and took off across the flat.

Christopher Tan with the nearly 5-foot Nile perch he caught in Uganda.

Allum’s Rainbow Trout Emily Allum caught and released an impressive 13.30-kilogram (29-pound, 5-ounce) rainbow trout to set the new IGFA Women’s 4-kg (8-lb.) Line Class World Record. Allum was casting a Glo Bug in the Tekapo Canal, New Zealand, and fought the record trout for 10-minutes prior to weighing and releasing it.

Schmid’s Arctic Char James Schmid recently set the new IGFA All-Tackle Length World Record for Arctic char with a gorgeous 93-centimeter (nearly 17-inch) fish. The char ate a Vibrax Blue Fox spinner in the Red Belly Lake, Victoria Island, Canada. After an 8-minute fight, James took the required measurement and released the fish.

(Left) Mark Weeks’ Seychelles parrotfish weighed more than 100 pounds.

(Right) Emily Allum’s New Zealand rainbow is a new line-class record.

The U.S. Coast Guard recently approved the use of Serious Signal’s flagship electronic visual distress signal device as a nighttime distress signal. The C-1002 is the industry’s first and only two-color distress light approved for carriage, which completely and legally replaces the need to carry marine pyrotechnic flares. The C-1002 also includes features that enhance its functionality to the level of an alert and notification system.

“We’re thrilled that the C-1002 Electronic LED Flare passed the extremely challenging laboratory testing required by the Coast Guard,” said Anthony Covelli, Sirius Signal CEO. “It’s the brightest multi-LED handheld SOS device on the planet—one that required sophisticated engineering and many new innovative solutions to overcome daunting challenges.”

The C-1002 flashes the SOS distress signal—three short flashes, three long flashes, three short flashes, using a two-color plus infrared SOS flash pattern (red/ orange and cyan) that has been found more effective against shoreline background light clutter, according to studies conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard R&D Center. The C-1002 is also Bluetooth-enabled with advanced mobile app connectivity, providing an additional layer of protection and communication for recreational boaters— and its infrared signal will be recognized by SAR aircraft from miles overhead.

“Based on our review… we acknowledge that the subject device, as tested, meets the performance criteria as specified in the policy letter and may be carried to meet regulatory requirements as a nighttime distress signal per 33 CFR 175.130,” noted the letter Sirius Signal received from the Coast Guard.

In time for the 2020 boating season, the C-1002 will be available for purchase on the Sirius Signal website and Amazon.com, as well as at premier marine distributors.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states, in all GEICO companies, or in all situations. Boat and PWC coverages are underwritten by GEICO Marine Insurance Company. In the state of CA, program provided through Boat Association Insurance Services, license #0H87086. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. Š 2019 GEICO

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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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

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Save The Date!

Palm Beach International Boat Show March 26-29 Superyacht Show Palm Beach Dubuts March 26-28

The 35th annual Palm Beach International Boat Show (PBIBS) pulls into port March 26 - 29, featuring hundreds of boats from around the world, ranging from 8-foot inflatables to super yachts nearly 300 feet long. As one of the top five boat shows in the country, owned by the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County, Inc. (MIAPBC) and produced by Informa Markets, PBIBS will feature more than $1.2 billion worth of yachts and accessories while offering fun and educational activities, including free youth fishing clinics presented by Hook the Future and IGFA School of Sportfishing seminars.

Attendees will also enjoy live music and refreshments at the show’s famous floating cocktail lounges. Guests are invited to come by boat and tie up to free docks located south of the in-water displays.

The show’s Windward VIP Experience includes admission to the show and VIP lounge featuring a premium open bar, sumptuous lunch, late afternoon tapas, pop-up events as well as concierge service in an indoor and outdoor exclusive setting in the heart of the show.

Overlooking beautiful Flagler Drive at the Lakeside Pavilion, the Windward VIP is sponsored by Bradford Marine and Compass real estate.

New to the show this year is Superyacht Show Palm Beach, which will host 10 to 12 superyachts, ranging in size from 180 to 300 feet long. The invitation-only event will be held at the Flagler Museum in the town of Palm Beach and is expected to attract highly qualified buyers from across the U.S. and around the globe. Superyacht Show Palm Beach will offer an exclusive display of the Show’s most luxurious superyachts, while featuring a mix of entertainment, luxury experiences, Superyacht seminars, and private evening events. Invited guests will be treated to valet parking, private tenders and limousine service to and from the airport. Superyacht Show Palm Beach will take place on March 26-28.

General Admission: • Adults (16 & over): $28 • Adult 2-Day Ticket: $52 • Children (ages 6 -15): $18 • Children (6 and under): FREE Windward VIP Experience: For an enhanced boat show experience, guests can purchase tickets to the Windward VIP Club. Each ticket includes show entry, access to the Windward VIP Club, a private luxury VIP Lounge, featuring an airconditioned indoor space, complimentary chef-drive cuisine, premium beverages and daily special events. Ticket price is $150.

Superyacht Show Palm Beach After two years of planning and permitting, approval was granted by the Palm Beach Town Council to install temporary docks in the deep waters of the Intracoastal Waterway behind the Flagler Museum to host the new superyacht destination.

This exclusive event is invite-only and will bring together builders of the world’s most luxurious superyachts and highly qualified clientele from around the world from March 26-28.

For additional information, including parking details, please visit the website www.pbboatshow.com.

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By John Lidington

t’s no secret that I love diving the Blue Heron Bridge (BHB). When it comes to photo subjects, I crave critters. While I’ve been to many locales seeking specific subjects—dolphins, whale sharks, longsnout butterfly fish, etc.—if I had to choose a single spot for all my diving it would be the BHB. At the beginning of any dive there, I usually have some specific subjects in mind. Yet even when the targeted critters elude me, I’ve never had to end a dive without some equally, or even more interesting images.

To boost the number of those special encounters that keep me so happy, I practice “stop, look, wait” (SLW). The idea of SLW is to plan

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a shorter route of travel, with long stops along the way to allow the local inhabitants to become accustomed to my presence.

At the start of the dive, I swim out toward the snorkel trail, looking for an interesting stretch of bottom. Finding a likely spot, I check the area where I will alight for any sensitive marine life and then “settle in.”

“Settling in” doesn’t mean lying on the bottom. To remain stationary and motionless in the current, I do have to touch the bottom. But it’s with a three-point stance. I keep my fins at right angles to my legs so only their two tips touch the bottom. The third point of contact is a muck stick in my left hand. Using those three contact points, I can keep my body several inches above the bottom.

Then I wait. If I’m lucky, after a minute or two, the nearby critters relax and interesting things happen. On my last BHB dive, I was able to watch a spotfin jawfish rearrange the shells paving the entrance to his hole. During the previous dive, while photographing a pair of hermit crabs investigating a discarded glass jar, I looked up to see a longarm octopus stretched up in its tripod stance checking me out.

I also stop when I find something that will make a dramatic background. Then the wait is for something interesting to swim by in that frame. Recently, I found a spot where a starfish had climbed one of the pilings. It took almost 10 minutes, but ultimately I got the shot I envisioned—a sergeant major backed by a vertical star. Just about every SLW dive produces something very special.

For optimal results, let Pura Vida Divers hook you up with a guide for the first dive. Guides are in the water almost every day, and they are well acquainted with the secret spots at Blue Heron Bridge where you find the most interesting creatures. Once you’re acquainted with the site, add a muck stick to your dive kit, head to the bridge, get in the water—and wait. You’ll be surprised at what turns up!

Contact Pura Vida Divers through their website at www.puravidadivers.com.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

DO THE MATH!

SUZUKI REPOWER OWNER’S EDGE

TRADE ALLOWANCE PROGRAM

The Suzuki Repower Trade Allowance Program is exclusive for members of Owner’s Edge. Members receive a trade allowance based on the age and hours of their original engine toward a new Suzuki outboard as detailed below.

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• All Suzuki repowers come with Suzuki’s “Gimme 6” 6-years of protection.

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t just 19 years old, Capt. KC Spaulding, of charter boat Caribsea, became the youngest captain ever to win the Florida Keys Gold Cup Fishing Championship Series.

Fishing with anglers Kenny Spaulding, Lee Gahagen, Phillip Bryan and Sam Milazzo, all of Islamorada, Fla, and Kevin Taylor from Port Orange, Fla., the team released a total of 23 sailfish and hoisted the perpetual Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish trophy when the series concluded at the Islamorada Fishing Club Captain’s Cup Sailfish Tournament Jan. 30.

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The team started out strong with a win in the 56th Annual Islamorada Sailfish Tournament, releasing 19 sailfish. The team would release another three sails during the Cheeca Lodge Presidential Sailfish Tournament Jan. 24 and 26, followed by one release to conclude the trifecta at the Islamorada Fishing Club Captain’s Cup Tournament. The combined total of 23 releases crowned the Caribsea Grand Champions with Caribee Boat Sales—and Yamaha Outboards—sponsored gold cups along with trophies for the captain and mate.

The team took home a check for $13,000.

Second place went to Capt. JC Cleare aboard the Remix. Anglers John and Ben Dorton of Weston, Fla., along with Nick Carullo, George Corzo, Sarah Melia and Madison Wright, from Miami, Fla., and Doug Meintkiewicz of Islamorada, Fla., released a total of 19 fish. The team released 12 fish in the Islamorada Sailfish Tournament, five in the Cheeca Presidential and two in the Islamorada Fishing Club Tournament. The team’s 19 releases on-time sealed second place for trophies and a check for $7,200.

Contagious took home third-place honors. Contagious Capt. Brian Cone led the team to 16 sailfish releases in the first leg of the series. Anglers Mark Mitchell and Kenneth Padgett, from Charlotte, N.C., photographer Tim Rahn, from Islamorada, Fla., along with Travis Bennett and Capt. Brian’s son Andy Cone, from Tavernier, Fla., had one more release at the Cheeca Presidential Tournament and two releases in the Islamorada Fishing Club Tournament for 19 total releases. The team received trophies and a check for $4,800.

It was a close battle for the High Point Angler Championship Ring, sponsored by Tackle Center of Islamorada. Local artist and Capt. Sam Milazzo aboard the Caribsea started on top with eight releases in the first tournament, and although the field was nipping at his heels, his two releases in the Cheeca and one in the Islamorada Fishing Club tournaments gave him 11 total to join the elite crowd of championship ring winners.

In total, 168 sailfish were released by 73 anglers participating in this season’s event. The Florida Keys Gold Cup Championship Series is a fundraiser for the Islamorada Charter Boat Association. The Series would like to thank major sponsors, Caribee Boat Sales, Yamaha Outboards, Tackle Center of Islamorada and Mangrove Mike’s Cafe. The hosts of the events included Whale Harbor Restaurants and Marina, Cheeca Lodge and Spa and the Islamorada Fishing Club.

For more information, visit www.islamoradasailfishtournament.com.

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SAVINGS ON DECK

AT YOUR LOCAL GEICO OFFICE. GILBERT SUAREZ 305-914-9220 13631 Biscayne Blvd North Miami geico.com/northmiami Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Boat and PWC coverages are underwritten by GEICO Marine Insurance Company. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2019. © 2019 GEICO 19_216446

Springtime is the official start of the fishing season. Many of us will stick to our tested and trued methods for targeting a variety of both fresh and saltwater species. Whether you’re a diehard spin-caster or a master of the plug rod, I always encourage anglers to learn a new fishing technique to add to their arsenal.

Learning the basic skills of fly fishing will open up more fishing opportunities to put more fish in the net!

Getting started: Choose the Correct Saltwater Outfit Getting started in saltwater fly fishing can seem like and overwhelming task, but it is really uncomplicated. It’s most important to purchase the right rod and reel for the type of fly fishing you’ll be doing. The East Coast striper fly fisherman will require a different outfit than the West Coast surf perch fisherman, and the guy interested in catching redfish in the Louisiana marsh will have a different rig than the angler casting to bonito off a jetty in Southern California.

Here are my suggestions The Rod: Choose a 7- or 8-weight rod. This rod is the perfect starter rod for the beginning saltwater fly fisherman. It’s heavy enough to punch a fly into a stiff wind, yet light enough to cast all day.

The Reel: A good direct-drive reel that can hold a minimum 200 yards of 30-pound Dacron backing will work well in most saltwater fly fishing situations. Currently, fly reels designed for saltwater fishing are more than adequate in handling fish up to 50 pounds. To save you the price of an extra reel, buy an extra spool for your reel to hold your shooting head.

Fly Lines: This is where it can get complicated, but fear not, it really is not that involved. Here is what you’ll need: 1) A basic weight-forward floating line matched to the weight of your fly rod. The WF floating line is a great all-around fly line for sight casting in shallow water. Don’t get confused by all the marketing of “Saltwater Taper,” “Bonefish Taper,” and “Redfish Taper;” all are lines suitable for the expert, but not for the beginner.

2) A weighted shooting head line combines the weighted front taper and an intermediate running line and is great for sub-surface fishing or fishing riptides from the beach. When fish are feeding below the surface, the shooting head will keep your fly in the hit zone longer. I would choose a 250 to 300 grain. The grain weight equals the sink rate of the fly line, so a 250 to 300 grain line will sink between 5 and 8 inches per second. This is plenty of sink rate to get you down to subsurface feeding fish.

A basic, solid rod reel and line combo will ensure you get the most enjoyment out of saltwater fly fishing and prepare you for the next step.

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ake a deep breath, and then think about how different your life would be if you couldn’t. Cystic fibrosis is a progressive, genetic disease that causes persistent lung infections and limits the ability to breathe. Travis Suit’s daughter Piper was diagnosed with “CF” when she was four. When Travis learned that saltwater could help alleviate the symptoms of CF, he immersed Piper in saltwater activities, and became inspired to create an ocean-based event that could raise awareness and funds to help CF patients everywhere.

Thus was born the Crossing For Cystic Fibrosis (formerly known as the Crossing For A Cure), an 80-mile self-propelled journey from the Bahamas to Florida. Travis made his first Crossing in 2013 with three stalwart friends on standup paddleboards who came to be known as “Piper’s Angels.” Since then, their ranks have grown to include hundreds of inspired paddlers, dedicated volunteers and generous sponsors. The Crossing For CF is the top paddle fundraising event in the world, and has grown into one of the largest boating events in the Bahamas.

Travis sees this amazing endeavor as a valuable life lesson for everyone involved. “When you fear your struggles, they consume you, but when you confront your challenges, you overcome them. The Crossing For Cystic Fibrosis provides a great opportunity to show that—no matter what obstacles we face in life—we can always choose to persevere.”

Registration is open for the 2020 Crossing, which will take place on June 20, and anyone can become part of the Crossing. You can paddle, captain a support vessel, volunteer at the landing or sponsor a paddler, a team, or the Foundation in any amount. Check it out, learn how the foundation has grown into one of the most impactful grassroots organizations for cystic fibrosis in the country. A whole lotta LOVE awaits you.

(Above) Piper and Scott Henley, President of Bahama on the podium. (Below) Travis Suit and Piper share triumph on Father’s Day weekend.

www.crossingforc ysticfibrosis.com www.pipersangels.org

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ishing line and other tackle cause problems when they enter the aquatic environment untethered to your reel.

Monofilament is not biodegradable and lasts up to 600 years, depending on environmental conditions. It is very difficult for birds and animals to see, and this can lead to them becoming entangled, resulting in injuries. Monofilament can also entangle habitats, causing damage to coral reefs and posing a threat to scuba divers.

Help prevent these issues by properly disposing of used line through the FWC’s Monofilament Recovery and Recycling Program. MRRP is a statewide project dedicated to reducing damage caused by monofilament and fluorocarbon line through a network of volunteers, recycling bins and drop-off locations.

Place used monofilament or fluorocarbon in one of the PVC MRRP bins found at many boat ramps and piers. Many tackle shops also act as line recycling drop off locations.

Collected line is cleaned by volunteers and shipped to the Berkley Pure Fishing company in Iowa for recycling.

To discard non-monofilament line, such as braid or wire, cut the line into 12-inch or smaller pieces and place into a covered trash receptacle, where it will not blow away.

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he organizers of the Blue Marlin Grand Championship, one of the cornerstone tournaments on the Gulf of Mexico marlin circuit, have announced a new event. The Invitational, slated for August 6-8, will feature a field of just 30 teams and a first-place prize of $1 million.

“We asked a number of the top boat owners and captains that are currently fishing in these tournaments in the Gulf about what they would like to see in a new event,” said tournament promoter Scott Burt. “Their overwhelming response was two-fold: They wanted to know who they were fishing against, and they wanted to fish for a million dollars for the winner.”

With a minimum qualifying length of 112 inches LJFL, blue marlin will be scored at one point per pound. Released blue marlin are worth 625 points, although it’s clearly stated in the rules that the heaviest qualifying blue marlin will win first place. Second through fourth place will be decided by a combination of release and weighed fish points. However, in the event that no qualifying fish are weighed, release points decide the overall winner. Therefore, a seven-figure payday is possible for billfish releases in the Gulf.

The Invitational is an all-in format, with a flat entry fee of $50,000 per boat.

Aside from the million dollars awarded to first, second place will earn $145,000, third place is worth $100,000 and fourth, $75,000. Boats may depart from any port in the Gulf of Mexico, with the weigh-in held at The Wharf Marina in Orange Beach, Ala. To request an invitation, contact Jim Cox at (251) 802-2664 or TheInvitational@CMMMarinas.com. Visit www.milliondollarmarlin.com.

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B.A.S.S. photo by Seigo Saito

t all depends on the weather, but the Bassmaster Classic could produce some serious sacks of fish when some of the world’s best bass tournament anglers descend on Alabama’s Lake Guntersville March 6-8.

On the 50th anniversary of the iconic championship event, 53 anglers who have qualified through the B.A.S.S. tournament season will launch on the sprawling, grass-filled impoundment of the Tennessee River during what has historically been prime time for big bass on the “Big G.” Pre-spawn activity was already ramping up during an early-February warm spell, although heavy rains, high waters and the cold front that followed pushed the fish right back out in the middle of the month. What that should mean is bass are primed to move up as soon as conditions stabilize. And when they move up, they will feed up in preparation for the spawn.

If the first week of March sees warmer weather and rains hold off, this year’s Classic could become a shootout featuring heavy five-fish limits and some monster bass. Some of the largest fish of the year are usually caught during the early stages of the spawn.

On the other hand, north Alabama is a place where early spring could bring 75 degree temperatures or snow flurries. Sometimes tough fishing conditions are just the thing to separate great anglers from good ones.

Either way, with a more than $1 million purse, $300,000 for the winner and all of the industry perks that come with a Classic victory, it will be a lifechanging event for at least one angler.

For more information, go to www.bassmaster.com.

O

n Jan. 25, Forrest Lee Wood, the iconic sportsman and founder of Ranger Boats, died at the age of 87. An early pioneer of tournament bass fishing, Wood was an entrepreneur who left an indelible mark on the angling world. He is widely credited with development of the modern bass boat.

Wood began his career in the outdoors as a trout fishing guide on the White River in Arkansas. In 1968, he and his wife, Nina, founded Wood Manufacturing Co., and he built his first six boats behind a service station in Flippin, Ark. His fledgling company, renamed Ranger Boats in honor of the Texas Rangers and U.S. Army Rangers, flourished along with the exploding popularity of tournament bass fishing through the 1970s. A competitive angler himself, Wood qualified for two Bassmaster Classics. He fished 101 B.A.S.S. tournaments with a good deal of success, and his knowledge of what bass anglers want in a boat led to the prototypes that influenced all bass boats that followed.

Ranger was the official boat of B.A.S.S. from 1972-2000. In 1996, Wood’s initials were used to rename the Operation Bass tournament series, and the FLW Tour was born with its championship event the Forrest Wood Cup. In addition to his involvement in boat building and tournament bass fishing, Wood was a sportsman and a conservationist who served as commissioner of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

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Serving Up More.

Fishing Report & Forecast Mayport

By Capt. Kirk Waltz

T

he weather continues to be a major factor in March. March comes in like a lion and leaves like a lamb. Sharp temperature fluctuations to the cold side have proven to slow things down a bit inshore. The most effective days to fish with the optimum results are the warm weather window days. Try to fish late morning into early afternoon when the sun is at its warmest. Reds, trout, black drum, and sheepshead will be the predominate species. The high outgoing to dead low tides seem to be the best.

The jetties will hold trout on the high outgoing and the reds will stage on the dead low. Fish slowly and methodically using live shrimp, fiddlers, cut blue crab, and mud minnows for best results. A typical 1/4oz jig on a light spin rod is effective, the old standard float rig works, and one of my favorite old reliable rigs, the egg sinker/leader combo. Try to remember the water is cold and so are the fish. The bite will be subtle and light. This

doesn’t mean it’s a small fish so be mindful when you go to set the hook.

Be methodical and work both the inside and outside of the jetties.

The ringtail porgies and sheepshead should really fire off this month.

Both species will eagerly eat a shrimp or fiddler and are dynamite fighters on light tackle. The tips of the rocks usually are my favorite areas to search first.

You might have to search for clear water because of the dridging going on right now. Mayport Basin area from White Shell rocks to the Navy base will be good if the water is clear. Live shrimp on a float rig or a 1/4oz jig with a white or new penny 3in swimming Gulp bait seem to be my go to bait.

Also, look for the big black drum to push into the rocks in large numbers. A quarter piece of blue crab soaked at the ends of the jetties in 38-42ft of water to be most effective. Remember these are the breeding stock so let the big ones go.

The local party grounds right off the beach is showing signs of fantastic Seabass fishing , not to mention Red Snapper and and occasional Grouper . Cut squid, cigars, live shrimp, and even mud minnows are great baits to use. I fished offshore a few times last month and had a blast catching what I could eat and keep releasing the rest back. Please be sure to check the regs for what you can and cannot keep.

Remember you can’t catch them from the couch.

Capt. Kirk can be reached at 904.241.7560 or 904.626.1128 for charters or visit us at www.Enterprisefishingcharters.com .Listen to the Outdoors Show every Saturday from 7am to 10am on 1010am or 92.5fm for weather, fishing forecast, and reports about the upcoming week.

4 NE FLORIDA

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Fishing Report & Forecast Nassau Sound

By Capt. Tony Bozzella

M

arch is a transitional month, where water temps are on the rise bringing bait back to NE Florida & pelagic fish.

Depending on the exact temperatures, we can see Jacks, Spanish Mackerel, Lady Fish, & Bluefish. Lures, like lipped divers, top waters, & spoons are all good picks. Float rigs & jig & bait combos work well if you fish bait.

Most of your area inlets will be holding these species. Eddies coming around structure, points, or shell bars with current & bait can be a potentially good spots. As the water warms & nears the 6570 degrees, we should start to see bigger trout in these areas also. I like to cover water & hit many places with these attributes. Don’t forget to log your catch & spots, so you can learn your area better. It will help later down the

road. Of course, with the water temperature still cool, back country red fishing will still be doing well. Sight fishing will end as all the mullet enter the mud flats, micro organisms regain traction, and the waters begin to lose clarity. If we have a warm march the water clarity will be clear at the beginning of march but began to dirty by the end of march. Poking the edges of these flats can produce some quality slot reds. As you heard me talk before, use the lightest TBS Jig you can paired with a shrimp or mud minnow, and a 30 inch piece of 1520 lb Fluorocarbon with any type of loop knot to the jig......

Very Important, freedom of movement.

The full moon in march is the 9th so the fishing should be very good in the days leading up to the full moon.My Black bucktail can produce some beauties as well! Lead the fish and small low hopes when the fish pass. Great fiddler crab bait that cast accurate and redfish love them!!

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Capt. Tony Bozzella / TBS JIGS www.tonybozzella.com 904 651 0182

MARCH 2020

NE FLORIDA 5

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JOSFC - March Guy Sanders

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ate February and early March the thoughts and labors of the club turn toward the el Cheapo Sheepshead tournament. From stuffing the Captain’s buckets, to setting up the clubhouse and surrounding area there is plenty for everyone to do.

Now that doesn’t mean our club members don’t get a chance to fish, when mother nature cooperates.

It seems that just about every weekend for the start of 2020 has been a tad windy. For those folks lucky enough to get a chance to fish during the week there has been the odd day of good weather.

And on those odd days anglers have caught Wahoo.

Upcoming:

888-710-4477 (IHRS) • www.hair4me.com 11363 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 103 Jacksonville, FL 32223

Our March meetings will be held on the 5th and 19th. February 6th was our annual Chili Cookoff during our club meeting. Chefs from around the world (or the greater Jacksonville area) brought their best to the clubhouse. John

Hugo from OFF THE CHART BOATWORKS was our guest speaker, boat maintenance was the topic. If you weren’t there you missed out on some great takeaways for keeping your piscatorial vessel in tip top shape.

We open the doors around 6:00 if you want to come early to visit, dinner is at 7:00, and we generally try to get started with the meeting about 7:30, and we will have a great raffle. All of our meetings are open to the public, you do not have to be a member to attend. We are family friendly so feel free to bring the kiddos! If they are a little too young to appreciate the guest speaker, please bring them a quiet activity to do at the table with you.

We hope to see you there!

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Give me a call today for more information.

Mark Feagle | 904.607.1139 MFeagle.WatsonRealtyCorp.com MFeagle@WatsonRealtyCorp.com 6 NE FLORIDA

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2/17/20 11:59 AM

West Bank Seminar 2020- Surf Fishing Seminar

By Mark Feagle

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s I write this, we’re getting ready for our largest seminar of the year (February – Sheepshead) and preparing for our March seminar which is one of my favorite topics: Surf Fishing. March will feature a highly distinguished Surf Fishing Angler and Guy Harvey Outpost Preferred Guide, Noel Kuhn. Last season we were able to

watch Noel cast the entire distance across the 14-acre Lagoon/Pool in St Johns County’s new Beachwalk Community; an amazing feat! Noel has the knowledge and techniques to help anyone, from a novice to an expert surf fisherman, improve their skillset. He will share tips

to cast farther, demonstrate the best rigs for catching pompano and sharks, and train you how to study the surf to find fish. As usual, there will be food provided and we will have great door prizes and raffles! This is a must-see seminar for the whole family!

As we continue our West Bank Seminar Series, we want to thank our sponsors that make this happen: Watson Realty Corp., Watson Mortgage Corp., Dicks Sporting Goods, Gators Dockside Baymeadows, 57 Heaven for providing the venue each month, and all the captains who donate their time to put these events on. The events will continue to be held at 57 Heaven on Wells Road in Orange Park. And, as always, they are FREE to the public.

Also in the works, I am organizing a state-wide waterway cleanup event slated for this summer! Working together with the Coastal Conservation Association, The Riverkeeper and Florida Realtors, this could evolve into the world’s largest waterway cleanup event ever.

More details soon to follow.

I would love some input on other types of seminars local fishermen would be interested in. Please email me with ideas at mfeagle@ watsonrealtycorp.com or call me at 904-607-1139. I look forward to seeing everyone at the Surf-Fishing Seminar in March. Please check my website mfeagle.watsonrealtycorp.com for exact dates and times. Click on the “Fisherman’s Corner” and go to eventbrite.com to reserve your tickets. If you would like to be added to my email list just send me a note with your email address. Here’s to the return of Daylight Savings Time and screaming reels! See you soon!

Mark Feagle, Watson Realty Corp. REALTORS®

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Fishing Report & Forecast Flagler Inshore

By Captain Chris Herrera

S

pring is around the corner and should bring the mullet out of their winter hiding holes. Redfish will start to scatter on the flats and will be hanging around the pods of mullet eating whatever gets kicked up. Look along Spartina grass edges, oyster patches during high tides and ICW and creeks for low tides. Slayer Penetrator 1/8 oz Predator jigs with a Slayer inc. sst paddle tail, Rapala skitter walk topwater plugs and hard plastic mullet imitators are proven lures that work for reds in March. Live mullet, cut mullet, shrimp and popping

cork combo or a mud minnow on a jig head will produce Redfish for the live bait fisherman especially during low tides in deeper creeks around oyster bars.

Trout will be devouring top water plugs with the fish attracting sound of “Click Clack” at first light along ICW, creek mouths and docks on outgoing tides. Throw that plug far up creek in shallow water and “walk the dog” into nearby drop-offs where trout tend to hang out. When the sun gets high over head whip out that jig and soft plastic combo or diving plugs for subsurface trout.

Bluefish will be around Matanzas Inlet mixed in with the trout at first light filling their bellies with soft plastic jerkbaits on ¼ oz jig heads. Later in the day Bluefish will feast on a live mullet on the bottom using a fish finder rig.

Look for Flounder at the inlets during change of tides using a fish finder rig and live mullet. Creek holes during low tides will hold Flounder as well and my favorite rig is a live mud minnow and Slayer 1/4oz Destroyer jig head. Keep your bait pegged to the bottom and retrieve it as slow as possible. If you think you’re going slow enough, stop and retrieve even slower till you feel that thump.

In out southern region the snook will be patrolling the grass banks feeding on small fry. Look for “knock downs” or points that break up the current where snook will be hiding and ready to ambush.

Capt. Chris Herrera Serving Flagler Beach, Palm Coast, St. Augustine www.palmcoastfishing.com 386-503-6338

8 NE FLORIDA

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Fishing Report Pier and Surf By: Noel Kuhn

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his is the critical month for an early spring or not. After all those January days in the eighties I think spring is here early. So let’s get out and find some clean warm water and catch some fish! When I say warm I mean 65 and above. That is the turning point when the Pompano return in mass. They first show up in Flagler and the Hammock. The Flagler pier is a great spot for the early run. Also the beaches in that area from High Bridge Road north through the Hammock is the best place to catch fresh fleas.

The rigging for your fresh caught fleas, shrimp, or clams is the double dropper, aka Pompano rig. You can find them in the beach side tackle shops. Be sure to get the ones with 2/0 circle hooks. This is small enough for a medium size whiting but yet strong enough to give you a shot at

landing a nice Redfish or Black Drum. Using the sputnik style sinkers ensures you that your bait stays where you cast it.

People often ask me where is the best place to surf fish. My answer is always learn how to read the surf. During my charters we spend the first ten minutes looking up and down the beach to fish the best spot. I ask them to look for something different and that is where you will find the fish. These differences are known as rips, run outs, troughs, slews, bars, bowls, pump outs, and many more. YouTube is a great place to view and learn. Just search “How to read the beach for surf fishing”. The best time to find the best spots on the Atlantic coast is at a low tide with the sun to your back.

Here some other really useful tools from the internet that I use regularly to be more successful. “Windy” is great for current and forecast wind speeds. “SST Rutgers” for water temps. My favorite is Magic Seaweed. It gives you a lot of info at one spot. The live beach cams can also be helpful.

I’m really looking forward to this early run. Get out and enjoy the warm sunny days while getting your string stretched! Keep in mind that if you want to learn how to cast 300, 400, 500 feet and beyond just give me a call. Until then see you on the beach.

Noel Kuhn Surf fishing guide and long distance casting coach.

904-945-0660 www.TheSurfAngler.com COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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he Nassau Sport Fishing Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to develop and promote saltwater fishing in the Nassau County area while adhering to state, federal and local regulations, to encourage compliance with rules of water safety by club members and the general public, and to promote youth related community activities.

NSFA will again be sponsoring the Johnny Thrisk Memorial scholarships to 3 students of Nassau County high schools that will be attending a 4 year college next year. Recipients will be selected from applications post marked by 5-April and will receive $2,000 their first year and $1,000 the second year following a successful freshman year. See the NSFA website and your school counselor for more information and application requirements.

Season 1 of our Fish of the Season tournament is well underway and over 20 fish have been weighed already. In 2020

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we will be awarding prizes in 5 seasons with target species appropriate to each season.

Season 1 is targeting Whiting, Sheepshead, and Trout with nice fish already weighed in each category. Look for season 1 results in this space next month.

Season 2 will run from 1-March to 30-April and we will target Black Drum, Pompano, and Whiting.

NSFA will also be hosting a member/guest surf fishing outing on 4-April. Details have not been finalized, so watch our website for event information.

The NSFA will be manning our regular food booth at the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival from Friday evening 1-May to Sunday afternoon 3-May. Stop by and see us. The proceeds from the food booth go to support our charitable efforts in the community and support the 3 scholarships we award to local students.

See you on the water!

- www.fishnsfa.com

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Dave for de fact, D most p passio in his and th “and t the fu truly c For ex latest, hair tr offer i The trainin (one o the in surgic Plasm impro a spec rich in then i which Dav hair tr

Restore Your Hair and Your Life with IHRS Hair Restoration Systems!

The Perfect Solution for Hair Loss Treatment and Restoration for Men and Women Since 1990!

By Terry Newsome

F

or over 25 years IHRS (International Hair Restoration Systems) has been the number one leading hair loss treatment and hair restoration clinic in the Jacksonville, Florida area; and for good reason!

The highly-trained and skilled technicians at IHRS have over 100 years in combined training and specialize in medical, non-medical and clinically-proven treatments for hair loss for men and women suffering from all types of hair loss and for all types of hair.

I recently had the sincere pleasure of interviewing successful businessman, industry expert and owner of IHRS, Mr. Dave Barker.

Dave is driven by his purpose to make a real difference in the quality of life for men and women who may be suffering from hair loss.

(FUE). According to the IHRS website, during a FUE procedure, the hair follicles are removed from areas of the hair-bearing scalp. It is separated into smaller units and implanted into the balding scalp.

NeoGraft is a device that automates the harvesting and implantation process. This technology has been cleared by the FDA and it is now available at IHRS. “We use the NeoGraft device to do hair transplants without any linear scaring on the back of the patient’s head. We can literally transplant one hair at a time” Dave passionately explains, “and there is virtually no linear scaring on the back of their head with practically no downtime. So, someone can cut their hair as short as they want, and no one can see the scar.”

Dave has been on the leading edge of the hair restoration industry for decades and is extremely well respected among his peers. In fact, Dave Barker has sat on the Board of Directors for some of the most prestigious hair restoration companies in the world. He is truly passionate about IHRS and the transformation he has personally seen in his clients. “Originally, we started off as a non-surgical only business and then expanded to include surgical hair transplants,” Dave explains, “and today are the only all-inclusive facility in the Southeast that offers the full spectrum of hair restoration solutions in one location. We are truly committed to staying on the leading edge of technology changes.

For example, I just bought three new FDA cleared lasers featuring the latest, most advanced laser technologies available including robotic hair transplant devices. Whatever solution is available, we want to offer it to our valued clients, so they can look and feel their very best.”

The impressive IHRS facility is currently one of only two national training centers in the region approved by the Virtual Reality Group (one of the top surgical groups in the world.) Dave is at the forefront of the industry and was eager to share his thoughts about the new (nonsurgical) PRP Hair Loss Treatment Therapy “PRP… or Platelet Rich Plasma is a new process in which a clients’ own blood cells are used to improve and regrow hair. A client’s blood is drawn, then spun out into a special centrifuge to separate the blood from the plasma, which is rich in platelets containing growth factors. The platelet rich plasma is then injected directly into the patient’s scalp. Proteins signal stem cells which can help slow down hair loss and promote new hair growth.”

Dave is also excited about the latest, safest and the least invasive hair transplant method now available called Follicular Unit Extraction

Dave Barker is a remarkable professional that is 100% committed to staying at the leading edge of the hair restoration industry. I am extremely impressed with how much he truly cares about his clients. In fact, I personally spoke to one of Dave’s valued clients who said he has been “extremely happy with IHRS for years” and highly recommends IHRS to anyone who is serious about “restoring their hair, their confidence and their life.” He was quick to admit he should have scheduled a “free consultation with IHRS years ago” (before he lost so much of his hair.)

“I started losing my hair when I was 17, so I know how it is to be reluctant to visit a hair restoration facility and discuss personal hair loss” Dave admits, “but there is no reason to be reluctant. Simply come in to a private environment for a free confidential consultation and analysis so you can explore your options with one of our friendly certified hair restoration consultants. There is absolutely no cost and no obligation. But time is of the essence as it is easier to slow down hair loss than it is to regenerate hair growth.”

Contact IHRS at 904-425-5097 or visit the company’s website at www.hair4me.com to arrange for a one-on-one consultation with an IHRS specialists who will work with you to answer all your questions and find the best hair loss solution for you. Restore your hair and your life with IHRS!

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11363 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 103 Jacksonville, FL 32223 CAM_JAX_Mar2020.indd 12

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Northeast Trophy Bassin

By Terry Lacoss

D

uring a warm late winter afternoon threatening clouds paired with cooling air temperatures arrived with gusty winds. The increased winds ruffled the large lily pads where barbed wild shiners were strategically positioned. It was also a few days prior to a full moon, perfect conditions for hooking up to Northeast Florida river bass.

During the next thirty minutes of bass fishing we landed some ten Boggy Creek largemouth bass weighing to 11-pounds. The smallest bass weighed four pounds and we had another bass that weighed just over 10-pounds. I was bass fishing with long time Amelia Island friends Warren Townsend and Keith Williams who often share this memorable bass fishing trip when fishing tales are shared.

Longtime friend Danny Patrick finally talked me into a bass fishing trip to Florida’s Lake Santa Fe last year during the month of February and just prior to a full moon.

“A lot of fishermen don’t realize but there is great bass structure in the open waters of Lake Santa Fe, Danny explained. I like to slow troll wild shiners right over a deep-water ridge located in 12-feet of water, one hundred yards from shore. The deep-water ledge also has grass, which holds baitfish as well.”

We began our morning of bass fishing by free lining wild shiners way back off from my Triton bay boat adjusting the Motor-Guide electric trolling motor to a very slow speed. Just fast enough to keep our wild shiners swimming slowly over the deep-water structure.

Fifteen minutes after setting out our wild shiners Danny was hooked into a giant Lake Santa Fe largemouth bass that had struck his shiner as it passed over the deep-water ledge. After a pair of awesome jumps, I netted Danny’s 10-pound bass! During the rest of our day bass fishing on Lake Santa Fe Danny boated 8-more bass while slow trolling wild shiners far off from the bassy looking cypress tree lined shoreline.

“I like to locate deep-water structure in many of Northeast Florida bass lakes prior to the full moon in both months of February and March,” Danny Patrick said. “Once the water temperature reaches 65-degrees the large female bass will move into nearby shallow water and spawn.”

One of my very best late winter bass fishing trips took place on Florida’s Lake Hatchineha, part of the Kissimmee chain of lakes. My son Terry David and I located a large stand of Lilly pads with patches of hydrilla mingling in and out of the shallow shoreline. Perfect habitat for spawning largemouth bass!

We had virtually fished for several hours without much success when a passing front brought increasing winds and cooler air temperatures. The second the front arrived a large school of bass moved into the grass bed and lily pads, literally sending baitfish into the air.

Till this day and I have spent many days bass fishing, I have never seen so many big bass in one small area of the shallows putting on an awesome feeding display. My son and I immediately began casting ¾-ounce Rattle Traps in the chrome and blue back color pattern.

Fifteen minutes later the school of big bass disappeared, and we had six big bass flopping on the deck of our bass boat, there was no time to place them in the live well. We eventually placed in 2nd place in the bass tournament with 28-pounds, the largest weighed just over sevenpounds.

Right now, Rodman Reservoir is drained down and will start to be refilled soon slowly to its regular water depth beginning on March 1st.

Excellent trophy bass fishing is coming along the edges of the old river channel and where small creeks enter the main river.

Shiner fishermen will do best while running shiners close to large floating stands of weeds and right under the weeds as well. Casting gold and shad colored crankbaits close to the edges of the old river channel is a deadly bass fishing technique right now as well.

Don’t allow the chance in bass fishing a few days prior to a full moon during the months of February and March. It is by far the best time of year to catch that Florida trophy bass of a lifetime! Also, days when a front are predicted to arrive will often show up with a big bass bite!

For wild shiners call Hawthorn’s wild shiners, (352)481-9997, or Howard’s shiners (352-546-1213.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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Fishing Report & Forecast St. Augustine Inshore

By Capt. Tommy Derringer

I

t’s my absolute favorite time of the year to fish in Northeast Florida…

Spring weather will bring in the baitfish (mullet, pogies, etc.) and just about every predatory fish will be on the hunt for a good meal. Redfish will still be up on the flats in schools, trout will be feeding along the ICW banks, and the drum and flounder will be stacked in the deeper creek holes. Just about everywhere you go you’re going to run into some good fishing over the next couple of months.

Redfish will remain schooled up as long as the water temps stay on the cooler side. Look for the big schools of reds on the lower tide stages (especially on the negative low tides we’ll get with a good west wind).

I like to find flats that have somewhat of a deeper escape route for the fish. A perfect setup would be a large flat on the edge of the ICW that has a deeper area that drains into the ICW. The fish will absolutely stack up in those “drains” as the tide gets really low. If live bait is your thing, a mud minnow or live shrimp pegged to a 1/4oz Saltwater Assassin jighead will be the perfect presentation to the schooled up fish. If you’re going with artificials, I like to use a Saltwater Assaassin Sea Shad on the same jig. Locate the schools by looking for large wakes and/or “muds” that the fish will cause by moving around. Make sure to lead the fish by quite a bit as they can and will be a little spooky this time of year. You can also find some big schools of redfish stacked in the creek holes on the same low tides. Push back as far as possible in the creeks and find that last deep spot… you’re sure to find a few good fish hanging out waiting for the tide to turn.

Redfish won’t get all the glory this time of year, it’s also troutski time!... Trout will be really turning on with the warming air and water temps. Toss your favorite top-water plug at first and last light along the ICW shell banks for some great big trout action. Once the sun comes

up a bit switch to a sub-surface plug or your favorite soft plastic on a jighead. The soft plastic and jighead rig account for a good number of trout catches on my boat this time of year. I like to use the twitch, twitch, pause retrieval method.

The fish usually take the lure on the pause. Target creek mouths on the outgoing tide and the ICW shell banks on the incoming. Any kind of rocks, docks, or structure with moving water around them will also be holding some nice trout. And of course, the live shrimp under a popping cork sometimes can’t be beat.

March and April are typically the best times of the year for black drum in our area. The monster drum (sometimes up to 80lbs+) can be targeted in the deepest areas of the ICW and in all the area inlets. A halved blue crab on the bottom is the bait of choice for these big dogs. The big ones will be spawning so make sure to thoroughly revive them to ensure a healthy release so they can take care of their business and keep the drum population thriving. The smaller “slot” sized black drum can be found in the creek holes and near deeper water structure such as bridges and jetties. Live or dead shrimp, fiddler crabs, and clams fished along the bottom will all make for some great drum action.

Capt. Tommy Derringer Be sure to check out my Daily Fishing Reports online @ www InshoreAdventures.net

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pring is just around the corner and with that brings our favorite event of the year! Mark your calendars for our 10th annual FREE Kid’s Fishing Clinic on March 14, 2020, sponsored

by St. Augustine Marina and the St. Johns County Parks and Recreation Department.

This clinic is for kids 12 and under.

Registration is at 7:00 a.m. at St. Augustine Marina next to the Vilano Beach Pier in St. Augustine.

This event features a fishing and safety clinic, free McDonald’s lunch, awards and raffle at 11:30 a.m. The first 200 kids will get a prize and a goodie bag!

Registration is the day of the event only. Any questions, call Donna at (904) 814-0515.

Our goal as a club is to get as many people as possible interested in the sport of fishing and that starts with our young anglers. Not only do we host the free clinch each year, but also give our youth an opportunity each month to learn skills associated with fishing.

Our Young Anglers Club, which meets during our general membership meeting, provides instruction on topics

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such as boat terms & safety, net casting, fish ID and knot typing, just to name a few. The participants are quizzed throughout the year and given status

promotions such as “first mate” as they learn.

To learn more about our club and how to get your family involved, please visit our website at www.acgfa.com or find us on FaceBook.

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The Palms Fish Camp Restaurant

Delivers the Ultimate Waterfront Dining Experience; Featuring Quality Local Seafood That Will Keep You Coming Back!

By Terry Newsome

N

othing can stop the power of a lifetime VISION whose time has come; and for local attorney Marc Hardesty and successful businessman Marshall Adkison (owners of The Palms Fish Camp Restaurant,) that time is NOW! At last, their dream of creating the ultimate waterfront dining experience in Northeast Florida featuring locally caught (straight off the boat) superior-quality seafood in a festive, world-class environment has become a reality. The Palms is truly one of the most popular seafood restaurants in the entire state of Florida and delivers a dining experience that will keep you coming back for more! The food quality is unsurpassed, the waterfront view is a sight to behold and the huge waterfront deck delivers a festive “live music” atmosphere that is super fun and exciting!

As the former co-founder for North Florida Restaurant Association, I had the privilege of evaluating the top-rated restaurants in our region. As an experienced “food critic,” I am not easily impressed

rib burger or chicken.) And don’t forget that the Palms also serves breakfast on the weekends from 7:00AM to 11:00AM. The Palms truly has something for everyone!

I recently had the privilege of interviewing co-owner Marc Hardesty who is driven by his purpose to truly make a difference in the lives of his local community. “My good friend and business partner, Marshall Adkison and I met over 20 years ago while both were commanding Army units,” Marc vividly remembers, “and we both had commanded various Army units, been deployed and retired after 20 plus years of service. Marshall is a successful businessman and we always shared the same vision, values and dreams of giving back to our community.” Marc is a successful trial attorney and started a local law firm Hardesty, Tyde, Green & Ashton in Jacksonville over 25 years ago but admits that he has a passion for offshore fishing. “Marshall and I are avid fishermen who know fresh seafood,” Marc explains “and we

(especially when it comes to seafood.) I recently had dinner at The Palms and I can tell you that my overall dining experience was amazing! (Truly a 5-star rating!) The waterfront view of the Timucuan Preserve (part of the National Park system) was spectacular, the atmosphere was exciting, and the service was world-class! In fact, I was treated like royalty! My server (Missy) was super friendly and extremely knowledgeable about the menu choices. She took great pride in executing on Marc and Marshall’s vision to deliver the ultimate seafood restaurant experience!

What impressed me the most about The Palms menu was the unique variety of options. There were all the local favorites like The Palms “Fresh Mayport Shrimp” and fresh Fish, Scallops, Oysters (and of course, my favorite, “The Palms Platter.”) I also tried The Palms fried local Flounder and it was excellent! (Other unique choices included the popular Palms Fish Tacos, Palms Country Boil, “Whole fried fish” and the fish selection changes depending on what’s being caught Sheepshead” and puppy Drum were offered as the whole fried options during my visit! Of course, the appetizers (like The Palms Smoked Fish Dip,) soups (Gumbo and Chowder), salads (huge selection) and homemade desserts looked fantastic! (Deciding between The Palms Key Lime Pie, Bread Pudding and Ice Cream Brownie was a tough decision!) The portions are generous, and the prices are very reasonable! And if you are craving something other than fresh seafood, The Palms hand-crafted pizza or flatbread creation from their wood stone oven are fantastic options (or even the smoked pulled pork, short

both live close to The Palms Fish Camp Restaurant that we are proud to say is part of our neighborhood. We have been very fortunate in our careers, so naturally, our vision has always been to give back to our community. That’s why we buy all of our shrimp directly from our neighbor’s shrimp boats just 4 miles down the road and we also buy our fresh fish straight off the local hook and line boats” Marc loves to share The Palms waterfront dining experience with others. That’s why he says, “Come on Up the Creek and Taste the difference Fresh Local Caught Seafood makes!!”

In addition to offering the best local seafood in the region, The Palms has fantastic entertainment and currently offers live music every night, 7 days a week. (Two different bands are featured Saturday and Sunday… all day! Located at 6359 Heckscher Drive, The Palms is easily accessible by water (via the St. Johns River and Intracoastal Waterway) with plenty of deep water and a 13-foot clearance under the Clapboard Creek bridge at high tide. The Palms is conveniently located next to the Palms Fish Camp Boat Ramp and has plenty of parking.

I absolutely LOVE The Palms Fish Camp Restaurant and was genuinely impressed with the entire dining experience. On a personal note, congratulations to the owners Marc Hardesty and Marshall Adkison on turning their lifetime vision into a reality! You have made the local community extremely proud!

If you have not yet experienced The Palms Fish Camp Restaurant; I highly recommend that you make it a priority. It will be a waterfront dining experience that you will always remember! Enjoy!

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Fishing Report & Forecast St. Augustine Offshore

By Capt. Robert Johnson

Monofilament or Wire

M

onofilament or wire, that’s a question asked in the morning by the mate. My normal answer is both. This time of year, Wahoo are king with Tuna coming in a close second. The normal trolling spread hopefully will produce both. To have a decent chance at both species bait is the way to go. Medium ballyhoo rigged naked on 125# mono is the go-to bait. We will even use a direct rig where we pull the ballyhoo without a swivel or leader directly on the 80# mainline.

Same with cedar plugs.

Sometimes it doesn’t matter but Tuna can be skittish at times. It just depends on the day.

As you would expect sharp toothed Wahoo use monofilament for dental floss, so it takes allot of luck to keep one hooked up on mono without getting bit off. For Wahoo we pull number 9 wire

and the normal spread will have wire Riggs on a shotgun and another on the tried and proven deep line behind a #3 planner. I prefer a blue and white Islander Hawaiian eye. We pull a mixture of select and Medium Ballyhoo. The rest of the spread will all be monofilament Riggs. High speed lures are a great way to target Wahoo but not the best way to target and catch multiple species. It also is tough on the fuel tank. Its been a warm winter and we already have seen a few Mahi showing up. Probably going to be a little early this year.

Bottom fishing is great this time of year in the deeper water. I like 23 to 25 fathoms. All Grouper are closed as well as Red Snapper but there are plenty of other species available. There are several snapper species available including Mutton, Vermillion and Mangrove. Red porgy and triggerfish are plentiful as well. Amberjack are preparing to spawn and there will be some real donkeys if you want to get the kinks out of your back.

If you want to catch a large Wahoo and throw some fat Black fins in the box this is the time of year to get it done.

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-Captain Robert Johnson, Jodie Lynn Charters wwwJodieLynnCharters.com (904)540-2628 jlfishing@bellsouth.net

MARCH 2020

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Fishing Report & Forecast Fernandina / Amelia Island

By Terry D. Lacoss

B

lack drum fishing along the beaches of Amelia Island and both the St. Mary’s and Nassau Inlets is excellent during the month of March. Look for the full and new moon phases to produce the best fishing action where drum weighing up to 100-pounds are annually caught by savvy salts.

Fishing dead on the bottom with combination baits including large local shrimp, conch and a quarter blue crab on a 7/0 kahle hook is key.

A four-foot length of 100-pound monofilament leader is attached to the main 30-50-pound main line with a 50-pound black barrel swivel. A four to eight-ounce egg weight is threaded onto the main line, followed with a plastic bead then attached to the 50-pound black barrel swivel.

If you are fishing with either mono or braided fishing lines, the “Uni Knot” makes and excellent connection.

Long time friend and one of the best Northeast Florida drum fishermen, Forest Evatt believes in placing his drum rod and reel into his boat’s rod holder. Forest will then watch the rod tip for the slightest movement!

“Black drum will typically pick the bait up and swim straight to the boat, which makes the strike very difficult to detect,” Forest said. “By leaving the rod in the rod holder and watching the rod tip, the subtle strike of the black drum is easier to detect.”

Some of the best drum action should come during the last few hours of the flooding tide and while fishing after dark.

Wahoo fishing offshore of Fernandina Beach where water depths dramatically fall from 65- 1,00 feet in less than a mile is excellent during the month of March as well. Dolphin fishing should also pick up during the month of March where Sargasso weed lines are well defined.

Blackfin tuna are a special catch and excellent eating as well!

At some of the mid-range offshore fish havens including the Elton Bottom where cobia and kingfish are found feeding on deep water bait fish including sardines and blue runners. Jigging up a live well full of live baits is key while slow trolling live baits right over the top of large concentrations of bait fish and a hard bottom too.

Sea bass, sheepshead and flounder are plentiful at near shore live bottoms during the month of March including KBY, FA, FC and HH fish havens.

Jetty and inlet fishermen will be targeting huge red drum that could literally bust the 40-pound mark. Fishing dead on the bottom during 24 NE FLORIDA

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MARCH 2020

the last of the in-coming tide with crab, live mullet, cut baits or large fresh shrimp is key. Inlet fishermen can also expect to catch a wide variety of sharks and excellent eating cobia as well.

Also keep in mind that the month of March offers excellent sea trout action in the deep tidal rivers that are so plentiful at the footsteps of Fernandina beach including the Amelia River and Bells River. Top water plugs worked during a flooding tide close to ambush points including flooding oyster bars and marsh points are key. Include the ever-popular Zara Spook, Devil’s Horse and “Chug Bug in the chrome color patterns.

Redfish will be schooling as well during an afternoon low tide when water temperatures are warm. Look for massive marsh flats that drain into the deep edges of nearby rivers to harbor hard fighting redfish.

New Penny colored Berkley “Gulp” fished slowly along the bottom is key while rigged with a 5/0 circle hook. One of the better redfish flats includes the southside of the “Shave Bridge” where massive oyster flats greet deep tidal creeks.

Striped bass are plentiful in the mid reaches of both the Nassau and St. Mary’s rivers during the month of March. Trolling or casting a white paddle tail rigged to a ¼ ounce jig head is key where small feeder creeks empty into the main river. Once again some of the best striper action comes during the first of the falling tide.

Largemouth bass be spawning during the month of March where small ponds will be the first to harbor largemouth bass weighing to and over the ten-pound mark. The southern portion of Amelia Island harbors several small ponds and lakes where excellent bass fishing is available. There are also numerous lakes and ponds west of Amelia Island where new housing developments have dug out ponds for both fishing and recreational activities.

Once again fishing just prior to the full moon will offer your best opportunity in hooking up to that largemouth bass of a lifetime! Top water plugs including the “Zara Spook”, Devil’s Horse” and “Chug Bug” are sure to attract bass weighing up to and over ten-pounds!

For more Amelia Island fishing information please call (904) 2612870, or visit www.ameliaangler.com

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he Wahoo bite seriously picked up at the end of January and the Blackfin Tuna started biting in early February right on schedule. Now as we enter March we’re expecting offshore fishing to continue to improve by degrees as we approach peak trolling season in April, May and June. The Wahoo tournament season winds up in March but several fat Wahoo have already hit the scales and they’ll be around for several more weeks. Everyone in NE Florida loves the Wahoo, with the possible exception of my family who experience every variation of grilled, blackened, sautéed and ceviche but it’s hard to beat the Wahoo for the sport or the table. Blackfin Tuna aren’t everyone’s favorite table fair but the excitement of watching enormous schools of the football shaped gamefish tearing up surface baits make most anglers giddy with excitement. For a real challenge bring along your 12 weight flyrod with red, white and/or blue feather flys and test

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your skills. After the Tuna you can expect the Dolphin to begin to arrive on the ledges and reefs in Northeast Florida. Dolphin are great fun and excellent food and they are the most reliable of our offshore species in the spring and summer but look for the Marlin to arrive about the same time to really make fishing exciting.

And speaking of Marlin, the Northeast Florida Marlin Association will be having a huge Bluewater tournament in April. This is the 48th year for the Bluewater and it’ll be one of our biggest and best in several years.

We’re planning a busy tournament calendar and hosting several seminars this spring to share fishing information and helping everyone catch more fish.

We’ve opened memberships and sponsorships for the 2020 season, members and sponsors receive special benefits at each of our events.

See www.NEFMA.Com for tournaments and membership information.

MARCH 2020

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TIDE CHART - March

Mayport Degaussing Structure 30.3967° N, 81.3950° W Date Day Time Hgt 01 Sun 12:14 AM 4.47 H 02 Mon 01:02 AM 4.44 H 03 Tue 01:58 AM 4.44 H 04 Wed 03:03 AM 4.50 H 05 Thu 04:09 AM 4.67 H 06 Fri 05:10 AM 4.94 H 07 Sat 06:06 AM 5.24 H 08 Sun 12:35 AM -0.97 L 09 Mon 02:26 AM -1.31 L 10 Tue 03:16 AM -1.50 L 11 Wed 04:07 AM -1.49 L 12 Thu 04:59 AM -1.30 L 13 Fri 05:53 AM -0.98 L 14 Sat 12:32 AM 5.52 H 15 Sun 01:27 AM 5.27 H 16 Mon 02:28 AM 4.99 H 17 Tue 03:35 AM 4.75 H 18 Wed 04:44 AM 4.62 H 19 Thu 05:47 AM 4.60 H 20 Fri 12:11 AM 0.29 L 21 Sat 01:03 AM 0.14 L 22 Sun 01:50 AM -0.01 L 23 Mon 02:31 AM -0.12 L 24 Tue 03:10 AM -0.16 L 25 Wed 03:46 AM -0.12 L 26 Thu 04:22 AM -0.01 L 27 Fri 04:58 AM 0.16 L 28 Sat 05:35 AM 0.36 L 29 Sun 12:01 AM 4.87 H 30 Mon 12:43 AM 4.83 H 31 Tue 01:32 AM 4.79 H

Time Hgt 06:33 AM 0.75 L 07:27 AM 0.85 L 08:26 AM 0.84 L 09:27 AM 0.69 L 10:28 AM 0.40 L 11:24 AM -0.01 L 12:16 PM -0.46 L 7:58 AM 5.49 H 08:48 AM 5.64 H 09:37 AM 5.65 H 10:26 AM 5.54 H 11:16 AM 5.31 H 12:07 PM 5.01 H 06:51 AM -0.59 L 07:52 AM -0.21 L 08:54 AM 0.11 L 09:55 AM 0.33 L 10:56 AM 0.42 L 11:52 AM 0.39 L 06:42 AM 4.64 H 07:29 AM 4.70 H 08:11 AM 4.74 H 08:49 AM 4.74 H 09:26 AM 4.69 H 10:02 AM 4.59 H 10:38 AM 4.46 H 11:14 AM 4.31 H 11:52 AM 4.16 H 06:15 AM 0.55 L 07:02 AM 0.71 L 07:55 AM 0.81 L

Time 12:42 01:32 02:31 03:36 04:39 05:37 06:30 02:05 02:52 03:38 04:25 05:13 06:05 01:00 01:57 03:00 04:08 05:14 06:13 12:44 01:29 02:10 02:47 03:22 03:56 04:28 05:01 05:36 12:31 01:14 02:04

Approximate Correction Times Palm Valley ICW: H: +2:20 L: +2:00 +/- for Other regional Locations JAX Beach: H: -:29 L: -:20 Bings Landing: H: +2:57 L: +2:44

Hgt PM 3.82 H PM 3.71 H PM 3.70 H PM 3.81 H PM 4.05 H PM 4.40 H PM 4.79 H PM -0.89 L PM -1.21 L PM -1.36 L PM -1.32 L PM -1.11 L PM -0.78 L PM 4.69 H PM 4.38 H PM 4.16 H PM 4.06 H PM 4.09 H PM 4.22 H PM 0.25 L PM 0.07 L PM -0.09 L PM -0.19 L PM -0.19 L PM -0.09 L PM 0.09 L PM 0.31 L PM 0.52 L PM 4.05 H PM 3.97 H PM 3.95 H

St. Augustine Beach: H: -:07 L: -:15 St. A City Dock: H: -:04 L: +:09

Time 06:40 07:35 08:36 09:40 10:42 11:40

Hgt PM 0.69 L PM 0.71 L PM 0.59 L PM 0.33 L PM -0.06 L PM -0.52 L

08:20 09:10 09:59 10:49 11:40

PM PM PM PM PM

5.16 5.46 5.66 5.74 5.69

07:01 08:01 09:04 10:09 11:12

PM PM PM PM PM

-0.40 L -0.04 L 0.23 L 0.37 L 0.39 L

07:03 07:47 08:27 09:03 09:38 10:12 10:47 11:22

PM PM PM PM PM PM PM PM

4.38 4.54 4.67 4.77 4.84 4.88 4.89 4.88

H H H H H

H H H H H H H H

06:16 PM 0.69 L 07:04 PM 0.79 L 08:02 PM 0.80 L

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offers views out to the side of your boat underwater upwards of 180 feet on either side. This locates fish you would not see using standard down-pointing sonar. It enables me to discover potentially productive areas without making a cast. With functional electronics, you cut a lot of time searching and focus on productive areas.

What You Need: A tournament angler might feel the need for all the bells and whistles to be competitive. This can lead to six or more graphs on the boat. That’s ok, but it can be overkill for someone who is recreational fishing.

Some basic features, however, have become must-haves. Navigation and mapping systems are important. Speed, time and temperature data are useful. A color monitor of 9 inches or larger is nice for ease of use. I would choose a unit with a few buttons and smooth functionality. Any of the notable three brands will suffice. However, having too much information can be overwhelming.

Paying The Price: When you see boats with four 16-inch TVs on the console and more on the front deck, rest assured that it set the owner back a bit. You can leave a hole in your wallet if you’re not careful.

I believe in buying what you need, not what you see. For a few hundred bucks, you can get a decent sonar fish finder that will cover basic needs. However, if you find you need an upgrade, there are units out there that cost more than a small compact car. But really ask yourself: “Do I need the electronics to play YouTube videos, or do I need them to navigate, locate and catch fish?” It’s purely personal and a choice for each to make.

Electronics are an excellent tool to help you catch more fish. They make fishing more enjoyable, but it’s wise to consider what you want and need. Learning to use all the available tools is another subject all together.

By Jay Striker ou’ve seen those bass boats with two or three large monitors at the console and just as many on the front deck. There are good reasons for having these electronics, but I believe there’s also overkill.

As a tournament bass angler, having good electronics allows you to compete against the fish in ways that did not exist in the past. Although sonar capability has been around for decades, using this technology to locate fish and eventually catch them is a game-changer. Let’s discuss the benefits of electronics, how much you need, and the cost associated with them.

Benefits: Competitive bass anglers must make pressure-packed decisions. Many of them are made based on data picked up from electronics on the boat. When I’m pre-fishing, I really try to cover Follow Jay Striker on social media @JayStriker52 on IG or check water using side imaging, which higher-end electronics provide. It him out at www.jaystriker.com.

Y

Photo courtesy of Capt. Bob Strange

J

By Tom Schlichter

ust a 20-minute drive north of Myrtle Beach, S.C., Little River Inlet and the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) that snakes behind it offer yearround fishing in generally calm, shallow water. Check it out on a map, and you’ll instantly know this is a fishy place.

The inside waters here are bordered by marshes, parklands and plenty of drainages positioned perfectly for pumping baitfish, small shrimp and other tasty fodder right into the main channels on a dropping tide. It’s an ideal set-up for anglers to connect with speckled trout, red-

fish, black drum, flounder, sheepshead and even an occasional gray trout (a.k.a. weakfish).

“The ocean water from Little River Inlet refreshes this strip of Intracoastal Waterway,” said Capt. Bob Strange, of Strange Magic Fishing Charters (www. strangemagiccharters.com; 843-274-1082). “We spend a lot of time working the backwaters here—the creeks, the drainages, the coves.”

Strange predominately targets speckled trout, redfish and sheepshead in early spring, adding black drum and flounder in April. He’ll expand his efforts to waters outside Little River Inlet once the waters stabilize at about 70 degrees in May and June, as Spanish mackerel, king mackerel and additional species arrive.

“Our early-season action is a lot fun,” noted Strange. “The ICW can be a busy place once the summer gets rolling, but in March and April it sees very little boating traffic. That means once you find the speckled trout you can usually have ’em all to yourself.”

From his 22’ Pathfinder, Strange arms clients with 6’6” Shimano spinning rods with a medium action and fast tips. Shimano 2500 or 3000 series reels filled with 10- to 20-pound braid are a good match. He uses a 15- to 20-pound fluorocarbon leader and then the terminal tackle.

Strange fishes live mud minnows, cut bait or fresh shrimp about 25 percent of the time and artificials the rest of the way. He favors small jigs tipped with Berkley Gulp! Swim Mullets, Z-Man trailers or similar soft plastics with white or chartreuse his most productive colors. The lures can be cast and jigged back to the boat or worked beneath popping corks.

“Oyster bars make a great starting point, but don’t overlook creek bends, docks and the like,” explained Strange. “Any of these can be a hot spot. Transition areas work great, too, especially where you find shell banks changing over to grass or a drainage emptying onto a flat. Add in a little structure, and you’re in great shape.”

While it is advisable to start your search with some hired help, anglers looking to trailer their own vessels can launch at a public ramp at the base of the RT. 17 bridge where it crosses the ICW between Little River and North Myrtle Beach. Bait and tackle along with info are available at Cricket Cove Marina in Little River (843-249-7169; www.cricketcovemarina.com).

I

n mid-February, the St. Johns River Water Management District and Brevard County, Fla. reached agreement on a project to capture thousands of pounds of nutrients annually before they can reach the Indian River Lagoon.

The Crane Creek/M-1 Canal Project, located in West Melbourne, Melbourne Village and portions of unincorporated Brevard County, will reduce the loading of nitrogen, phosphorus and sediments to the lagoon by restoring billions of gallons of cleansed freshwater each year to the St. Johns River. Major project components include an operable weir located near the natural coastal ridge, a stormwater pump station and a stormwater treatment area to ensure nutrients and sediments are removed prior to the water’s return to the St. Johns River.

The Brevard County Save Our Indian River Lagoon Program contributed more than $2 million and DEP provided nearly $2.5 million, with the district funding the remainder of this project, which will cost an estimated $10.5 million. The district is managing design and construction of the project as well as operating and maintaining the system. Construction is anticipated to begin in August 2020.

THE MOST INTENSE PART OF THE TRIP shouldn’t be the drive there.

We have nine convenient locations where ever the fish are biting.

Chiefland: 352.493.2533 (Open 7 Days a Week) Cedar Key: 352.543.6601 Dunnellon: 352.489.3391 Newberry: 352.472.3596 Williston: 352.528.5111 5 NORTH FLORIDA

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MARCH 2020

Bronson: 352.486.1050 Cross City: 352.498.5546 Inglis: 352.447.6000 Trenton: 352.463.7500

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T

he Northeast Florida Marlin Association’s 48th Annual Bluewater Tournament is scheduled for April 23-26, which is the best time of year to target blue marlin off northeast Florida.

This tournament is one of the oldest continuing tournaments in the state, organized by one of Florida’s oldest sport-fishing clubs. The three-day tournament allows captains to fish any two days and offers a wide variety of species and payouts for captains and anglers. The Northeast Florida Marlin Association’s 4,000-square-foot clubhouse overlooking Camachee Yacht Harbor in St Augustine, Fla., hosts events each night of the tournament for visiting yachts and members.

Club NEFMA typically registers 50 to 75 boats in its tournaments and pays out 90 percent of entry fees in prize money, plus it offers trophies for ladies, juniors and top three places in each category. Entry fees of $500 for Gamefish and $750 for Billfish make this a tournament affordable for anyone. Calcuttas are offered at seven levels.

See www.NEFMA.com for entry info. Call Tournament Director Scott Stanley (904) 234-7182 or Club President Paul Raudenbush (904) 838-0421 for information.

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By Michael Okruhlik Photo courtesy of Knockin Tail Lures

he warming tides of spring bring out a little bit of everything from fat trout, returning flounder, hungry reds and a ton of boaters.

Here are a few tips to remember as the water begins to warm: downsize, speed up and look out.

When targeting inshore species in early spring, I like to downsize my lures. This time of the year, your lure is competing with the first hatch of the new year’s fry. During this phase of the life cycle, large trout and

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reds readily feed on tiny baitfish and shrimp. This small prey is plentiful and easy for fish to catch. It is not uncommon for a thrashing trout to expel very small baitfish when you land them, and their stomach will be full. When this is the case and you are not catching as many as you would like, grab the smallest lure you can cast.

As the days grow longer and the water temperature rises, so does the aggressiveness of the fish. For those who kept fishing through the winter, now is your opportunity to finally pick up the pace. After months of slow rolling, long pauses, muddy bottom wading and cold hands, I am always ready for some faster rod action. It is spring, however. Cool fronts will still pester us, dropping the water temps and bringing dreaded high-pressure systems.

Always remember to fish the conditions and not the calendar.

This is also a prime time to bring out smaller version of your favorite topwaters and slow-sinking twitch baits. This time of the year, I like some white and silver in my hard baits. Solid color or a combination of the two typically pays off.

One thing to look out for as spring approaches are stiff winds! It is not uncommon here in south Texas to have spring winds in excess of 30 knots for days on end, and I’m sure high winds are a springtime factor on inshore waters everywhere. Wind creates treacherous conditions for small boats on open bays. For my fellow kayakers and anyone fishing from smaller crafts, it is crucial to check the forecast so these winds don’t sneak up on you after you launch.

Last but not least are the crowds. Spring and spring break bring out a large number of boaters, kayakers and general fun seekers to the bays, beaches and roads leading to them. Defensive driving and boating are paramount during these busy times. Many new arrivals to your waters have not been boating since last summer, and their skills may be a bit rusty. Leave early so you can beat the crowds on the road and at the ramp, unless you just want to watch the circus. Personally, I’d rather spend my time catching fat trout and reds!

Spring break is a great time to get your kids back on the water, unless they are like mine and have never left. Take a kid fishing, have fun, and be safe!

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

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Tim Barefoot

F

ish see color, but how they see color is a complicated conversation that involves terminology like wavelength and attenuation. We won’t go there, because even scientists don’t really know exactly what is translated from a fish’s eyes to its brain.

Suffice it to say that color is important in fishing, for luring them in and also for disguising what you don’t want them to see.

This is especially important for me, as I use high-visibility braided lines paired with fluorocarbon leaders for all my fishing, from bluegills to bluewater.

The main reason I use bright braid is I like to see where my line is, which tells me where my jig is. I also like to see where other people’s lines are, especially when casting in a side current while anchored or on the trolling motor. These conditions exist in a river or when the tide is pumping through an inlet. Knowing where everyone’s gear is helps avoid foul-ups, and watching that high-visibility line also tells you when you get a bite.

High-vis. braid is easy for people to see above the surface. It’s also visible to the fish you’re trying to catch. The way I “hide” highvis. braid from the fish is by coloring it with a Sharpie marker.

Since no one really knows what fish see, especially when different conditions and water clarity are added into the equation, trial and error was my best option for finding the hue that best hid my line. I’ve tried several different colors over the years, and I’ll tell you black is definitely not the best choice.

In my experience, a red Sharpie does the best job of making yellow braided line disappear in clear water. I’ve tried brown, green and black in clear water, and the red goes away much better than

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the darker colors. I especially like the red when bottom fishing. I don’t dive, but according to what I’ve heard from divers, red turns green in deeper water and blends into the surroundings. A blue Sharpie works great on high-visibility braided line when offshore trolling in blue water with a wind-on leader of the new BLUEWATER fluoro from HiSeas.

It’s best to apply several coats of Sharpie marker when the line is dry. Multiple coats of the permanent marker will thoroughly embed into the fibers of braided line. The color will fade and let the original color shine through after some time, so red or blue must be re-applied on an “as-needed” basis.

When jigging, I typically color 4 or 5 feet of the braided line above my fluorocarbon leader. This has the added benefit of letting you know how deep your jig is. When you see the red-colored line at the surface, you know your jig is only a few feet deep.

For a video of this, visit barefootcatsandtackle.com and click on “The Barefoot Jig,” or “Simple, Heavy Duty Bottom Tackle.”

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T

homas Hendel, of Lake Placid, Fla., reeled in 2020’s first Hall of Fame largemouth in FWC’s TrophyCatch program on Jan. 31.

It was a monster, weighing in a 14 pounds, 2 ounces.

He caught the big fish on Lake Placid in Highlands County, which is well-known for pumping out trophy bass. It is a 3,400-acre lake on the south side of the town of Lake Placid.

It offers great opportunities for those looking to catch a high number of fish, as well as the chance at a lunker. This unique lake has a variety of vegetation and quality habitat types, including deep flats, ledges and humps not typical of most Florida lakes.

“I was excited to learn I caught the first TrophyCatch Hall of Fame bass of the season and amazed at the size of my catch,” said Hendel.

“This is the first bass I’ve submitted to TrophyCatch. I look forward to continuing my participation in this program for years to come.”

For more information about the TrophyCatch program, visit www.trophycatchflorida.com.

S

malltooth sawfish have been on the endangered species list since 2003.

These shark-like rays with snouts that look like saws once inhabited coastal waters from Texas to North Carolina.

Now they are only found regularly in southwest Florida, especially around Everglades National Park.

As part of an ongoing collaborative research project, scientists have been tracking the movements of smalltooth sawfish using passive acoustic telemetry. Sawfish are tagged and data are collected using stationary receivers whenever the sawfish swims by.

In 2019, Tonya Wiley, of Havenworth Coastal Conservation, and Dr. Jayne Gardiner, of New College of Florida, downloaded receivers in the Tampa Bay area. In total, five sawfish have been detected in Tampa Bay including three females. In addition, in the summer of 2019, a couple of sawfish were caught in permitted turtle relocator trawls during a dredging in the Tampa Bay ship channel.

The receivers are still in the water listening for tagged sawfish which swim near them. Wiley plans to add more receivers in 2020 in hopes of getting a better understanding of the use of the Tampa Bay area by these endangered rays.

For more information about sawfish, visit www.SawfishRecovery.org.

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“We took it out to the Bahamas and this thing was flawless; we never had to worry about it getting tangled.” —Barry Berhoff, CEO of Shurhold Industries Barry Berhoff is an avid diver off the coasts of Florida and the Bahamas. After discovering E-Z Anchor Puller at the 2017 IBEX boat builder show, Berhoff decided to install the Rebel EZ-4 on his 40’ SeaVee. “Once I got this in, I was really, really impressed because of the build quality,” he said. “…The other cool thing about this was that we were able to go to a much thinner anchor line.”

E-Z Anchor Puller Mfg. Co’s Rebel EZ-4 drum anchor winch is the perfect option for serious fishing and diving boats on the Florida scene. Known for its capabilities of holding nearly 1,000 feet of spectra or dyneema ¼-inch line, the Rebel EZ-4 is completely manufactured from 316 stainless steel and is IP68 rated water submersible.

One of the most popular options of E-Z Anchor’s free-fall series, the drum will spool out line as fast as gravity allows the anchor to fall after a quick, two-second touch of a button. Press the “power up” side to neatly and quickly retract the line back onto the drum.

“Without a doubt,” Berhoff said, “the guys at E-Z Anchor Puller built a spectacular, strong marine-grade piece of equipment. I cannot recommend it enough.”

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By Capt. Randy Cnota

Y

ears ago, Z-Man introduced the Original Chatterbait, and it proved to be a true fish-catcher for thousands of anglers.

Today you’ll find many versions of the Z-Man Chatterbait as well as many other manufacturers offering their version of a bladed jig. The shuddering action of these baits entices reaction strikes better than just about anything.

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As bass transition into spring patterns and move shallow to spawn, you can choose from a wide variety of lures and presentations to get bites. There will be situations when fishing very slowly with soft plastics is extremely productive, but first you’ve got to find fish. You need a reliable search tool to do this. The beauty of the bladed jig is you can vary the weights, colors and trailer types to suit any type of pattern.

If fish are feeding on shad along weed lines and channel breaks, a ½- to ¾-ounce bladed jig in a shad pattern is my first choice. I can slow roll this lure along fairly shallow breaks and let it flutter down into the deeper haunts with a lift and fall action. Bass will often move up and down contour lines feeding before they head into really shallow water to spawn. A swimbait trailer is a good bet here. Choose your line size based on how deep you want your lure to run and water clarity. If you want to get a ½-ounce lure down 10 feet, use 15-pound-test fluorocarbon. If you want to keep it shallower or if water is stained with lots of timber, move up to 20-pound fluorocarbon or 50-pound braid. A 7-foot or longer rod designed for medium-diving crankbaits works best here.

Not all bass move shallow at the same time on a body of water, and usually you can count on some being very shallow even before water temps hit the 60s. Often, the ones that do move up early are monsters, like the 8.6-pounder pictured here that fell for a bladed jig.

For searching shallow flats, it’s hard to beat a 3/8-ounce bladed jig in brown, green or black patterns with matching swimbait or craw trailers.

For clear water, I like green pumpkin. For stained water, I choose black and blue.

The biggest enemy to spawning bass is bream and bluegill. These nest robbers are hungry and follow bass to the shallows for a chance at eggs.

Most small bass don’t pay much attention to the thieves, but big bass will turn a bream’s good day into its last one. Rigged on 50-pound braid, I can cast bladed jigs to skinny water and work quickly around grass and timber to cover a lot of water. Let the lure get down into the grass, and then rip it out and let it flutter back down before retrieving again. Just be sure to hold on. This is usually when the biggest bass bite these lures.

Give bladed jigs a try, and you’ll see why they live up to the hype.

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Photo courtesy of Capt. Bob Strange

By Tom Schlichter

J

ust a 20-minute drive north of Myrtle Beach, S.C., Little River Inlet and the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) that snakes behind it offer year-round fishing in generally calm, shallow water. Check it out on a map, and you’ll instantly know this is a fishy place.

The inside waters here are bordered by marshes, parklands and plenty of drainages positioned perfectly for pumping baitfish, small shrimp and other tasty fodder right into the main channels on a dropping tide.

It’s an ideal set-up for anglers to connect with speckled trout, redfish, black drum, flounder, sheepshead and even an occasional gray trout (a.k.a. weakfish).

“The ocean water from Little River Inlet refreshes this strip of Intracoastal Waterway,” said Capt. Bob Strange, of Strange Magic Fishing Charters (www.strangemagiccharters.com; 843-274-1082). “We spend a lot of time working the backwaters here—the creeks, the drainages, the coves.”

Strange predominately targets speckled trout, redfish and sheepshead in early spring, adding black drum and flounder in April. He’ll expand his efforts to waters outside Little River Inlet once the waters stabilize at about 70 degrees in May and June, as Spanish mackerel, king mackerel and additional species arrive.

“Our early-season action is a lot fun,” noted Strange. “The ICW can be a busy place once the summer gets rolling, but in March and April it sees very little boating traffic. That means once you find the speckled trout you can usually have ’em all to yourself.”

From his 22’ Pathfinder, Strange arms clients with 6’6” Shimano spinning rods with a medium action and fast tips. Shimano 2500 or 3000 series reels filled with 10- to 20-pound braid are a good match. He uses a 15- to 20-pound fluorocarbon leader and then the terminal tackle.

Strange fishes live mud minnows, cut bait or fresh shrimp about 25 percent of the time and artificials the rest of the way. He favors small jigs tipped with Berkley Gulp! Swim Mullets, Z-Man trailers or similar soft plastics with white or chartreuse his most productive colors. The lures can be cast and jigged back to the boat or worked beneath popping corks.

“Oyster bars make a great starting point, but don’t overlook creek bends, docks and the like,” explained Strange. “Any of these can be a hot spot. Transition areas work great, too, especially where you find shell banks changing over to grass or a drainage emptying onto a flat. Add in a little structure, and you’re in great shape.”

While it is advisable to start your search with some hired help, anglers looking to trailer their own vessels can launch at a public ramp at the base of the RT. 17 bridge where it crosses the ICW between Little River and North Myrtle Beach. Bait and tackle along with info are available at Cricket Cove Marina in Little River (843-249-7169; www.cricketcovemarina.com).

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Photo courtesy of Capt. Cefus McRae

By CAM Staff mall boats with tall towers have become a harbinger of spring on coastal waters. It began as a northern Gulf Coast phenomenon, when anglers developed run-and-gun sight-fishing tactics for spring-run cobia. But the technique has migrated like the fish.

The timing varies according to the arrival of cobia in various locations around the Gulf and up the Atlantic Coast. In waters off Virginia and up into Chesapeake Bay, it’s more of a summer deal. But

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sight fishing has to be the most exciting way to catch brown bombers. These days cobia boats with elevated towers are almost as common off the coast of North Carolina as they are off Panama City, Fla. When cobia are on the move, they migrate as singles or in small pods.

They like structure when they’re not moving, and the same is true on the migration. They can often be found holding tight to moving structure, which means big rays or turtles.

Spotting them is the trick. Presenting baits or lures to cobia you see is much more effective than trying to blind-fish for them. Most cobia trips involve a lot more cruising and looking than casting, so vigilance and being ready when the chance arrives are imperative.

Most captains opt for a late-morning start because fish are easier to spot when the sun is high and there’s less glare on the water. Once fish are located, getting into casting range is the goal. Cobia are funny. The steady growl of the motor doesn’t usually put them down unless you get too close, but popping it in and out of gear will cause them to disappear in a heartbeat.

If they do go down, don’t fret. Migrating fish are on a mission. They will continue on the same heading at roughly the same speed. With a little patience, it is often possible to reconnect with a fish that has spooked by staying on its course and watching for it to resurface.

When you do get a shot, be ready with an array of rods with different lures and baits. Cobia can be picky, and they’ll let you know whether or not they’re interested if you work a bait or jig high in the water column where the fish’s reaction is visible.

Medium-heavy spinning tackle with 25- or 30-pound braided line and a 60-pound fluorocarbon leader is a good starting point. You’ll have the casting distance and the power to fight big fish in open water.

Be ready with ½ to 1 ½-ounce jigs. Bucktails are good and so are an array of soft plastics that mimick eels or baitfish. Color choice will depend on where you’re fishing, so trust your captain or ask a local tackle shop.

Keep a few live baits rigged and ready in buckets in case your jig is snubbed. Eels are great. But if you end up taking multiple shots at a fish, follow up with mullet, pinfish, whole squid or a big shrimp. Sometimes you have to just figure out what they want.

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P

eople who love boating know it’s more than just a hobby; it’s a way of life. Being on the water is a more than just a break from the mundane day-to-day grind, it’s a passion that fills your heart and captures your sense of adventure.

Whether you are the weekend warrior and love to go offshore fishing or if you like exploring backwater creeks and rivers, you are a part of that community. As part of the boating world, you have also come to know Llebroc Industries as a leader in design and comfort.

Today, Llebroc continues to develop the most influential and sought-after seating throughout the boating industry.

If you have ever been to ICAST or walked a boat show, you have seen Llebroc Industries work on display. On brands like Blazer, Phoenix, Falcon and Vexus, you can find Llebroc’s handy-work. There is a reason why Llebroc has been an industry leader for more than 35 years. The proof is in the product, and Llebroc has put its name to the test over and over and come out on top.

The Llebroc team has once again created a unique design in their SV Series of seating. Stitching and color patterns are the first to catch your eye. But as soon as you sit down on one of their chairs, you come to realize it’s more than just a great looking seat.

Comfort and durability really bring home the total package for your next seat or bench. So, as you are searching for the perfect accessories for your new boat or you’re looking to upgrade your seating, make sure to go to the best name on the market: Llebroc Industries. You will find Llebroc seating on display on Grady White, Ocean Alexander, Freeman and Cobia boats at the Palm Beach International Boat Show March 26-29.

For more information, go to www.llebroc.com.

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It’s great for offshore anglers fishing in tournaments, taking clients on charter trips or just fishing for fun.

Fishing features include recommended locations for specific game fish, Weed Lines, Sea Surface Temperatures and Front Strength, Sub Surface Sea Temperatures, Sea Surface Height Variance, and Plankton Concentration data.

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This offer may not be combined with any other trial offers and may be modified or terminated at any time. Subscription and hardware sold separately. $100 Rebate from SiriusXM available through Dec 31, 2020, limited-time $150 Rebate from Garmin available Jan 20th - March 31st with hardware and subscription purchase, see Rebate Offer Details at siriusxm.com/fishmapping. Photo by Cody Spinadel. © 2020 Sirius XM Radio Inc. SiriusXM, Automatic, Pandora and all related logos are trademarks of Sirius XM Radio Inc. and its respective subsidiaries. All other marks and logos are the property of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

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ohn Cox, of DeBary, Fla., started the FLW Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit with a bang Jan. 26 with a wire-to-wire first-place finish on Sam Rayburn Reservoir in Texas.

In the first Pro Circuit event of the season, Cox weighed a four-day total of 65 pounds, 15 ounces to add yet another accolade to his impressive FLW resume. It was his fifth FLW Tour win, which ties him for No. 6 in all-time career wins with David Dudley. His Rayburn trophy will look good with his others, which include an FLW Angler of the Year and the 2016 FLW Cup Championship.

“This was the best win I’ve ever had,” Cox said. “I usually start off the year pretty slow and get better through the season. To start the season with a win, I don’t even know what to say. I’m so thankful – this is just incredible.”

Starting with a win must be more important this season than ever for Cox. He’s the only angler who qualified and committed to fish both the FLW Pro Circuit and the B.A.S.S. Elite Series in 2020. Entry fees alone will cost more than $80,000 to fish both tours, and the more than $100,000 in earnings from Rayburn will go a long way toward keeping him on the road.

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T

ampa Bay Watch is recruiting 20 hard-working volunteers to build oyster reef balls at its Marine Center in Tierra Verde on specified weekday mornings. There are four days in March when assistance is needed.

The project involves pouring marine-friendly concrete into a fiberglass mold to create oyster reef balls and taking apart the molds that were previously poured.

Oyster reef balls help replace oyster populations in struggling habitat areas. Originally designed to rebuild coral reefs, oyster reef balls have been an integral part of Tampa Bay Watch’s restoration programs for years and have been previously installed in numerous locations that lack natural buffers that help reduce pollutants from flowing off streets and into Tampa Bay. Oysters need to attach to a hard structure to grow into adults, and the rough texture of the reef balls makes it easier for oysters to grow. Oyster communities help stabilize shorelines, provide hard bottom habitats for fish, and promote water quality improvements.

Tampa Bay Watch builds about 1,000 oyster reef balls each year in at least two large-scale projects. Reef balls can vary in size, but most weigh about 200 pounds.

They are installed along seawalls and shorelines to provide habitat.

It’s a dirty job, but it’ll make a difference for Tampa Bay! Remaining volunteer dates this spring are: March 3, March 11, March 17 and March 23.

For more information and to sign up, go to www.tampabaywatch.org.

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Great Streams and Craft Beverages Await in Hendersonville, N.C. Photo by Nick Carter

I

f you’re an angler who enjoys following up a day on mountain trout streams with a refreshing craft beverage or two, cast your attention to the Blue Ridge mountain town of Hendersonville.

This North Carolina town, about 22 miles south of Asheville, offers miles of stocked trout waters, as well as the popular Hendersonville Cheers! Trail. The two resources make it possible to spend the day catching three types of trout – rainbow, brown and brook – while spending an evening exploring three types of craft beverages – beer, wine and hard cider.

First, the fishing part. North Mills River is the prime trout stream in the Hendersonville area. The river’s 4-mile section of delayed harvest waters receives an annual infusion of 11,000 trout from N.C. Wildlife, divvied between brook, rainbow and brown. Spring is a great time to fly fish the delayed harvest waters of North Mills River because no trout have been harvested since Sept. 30.

Another hot spot for trout fishing is just across the Henderson County line toward Brevard. The Davidson River offers miles of public trout waters that receive annual stockings of 16,500 fish.

Other lesser-known spots for fishing near Hendersonville include

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three streams on the eastern side of Henderson County, about 20 to 30 minutes from downtown. Rocky Broad River has a 1.2-mile stretch of hatchery support waters from Rocky River Lane to the Rutherford County line near Chimney Rock, while Cane Creek, near the Fletcher community, has 1.5-mile stretch of hatchery supported waters.

For those who really want a unique experience, Little River in DuPont State Recreational Forest provides not only a scenic setting for trout fishing, but also a unique one. Delayed harvest waters flow through undisturbed mountains and over several notable waterfalls.

Those waterfalls were immortalized on Hollywood’s silver screen in The Last of the Mohicans, as well as the backdrop for the exploits of Katniss Everdeen in the original Hunger Games movie.

When the fishing is done, the Cheers! Trail awaits. The trail is one of North Carolina’s best, featuring 16 craft producers offering a variety of experiences. Beer fans love Sierra Nevada’s tasting room, which is one of the largest on the East Coast and features an expansive patio and outdoor amphitheater, while Bold Rock Hard Cider has emerged as a national leader in the hard cider industry and regularly hosts live music (indoors and outdoors), along with cidery tours and a food truck.

Several craft producers on the trail create small-batch beverages prized for their quality and originality. Three breweries – Southern Appalachian, Triskelion and Guidon – are within a few blocks of each other in the Depot District, while Sanctuary Brewing Co. is only a few blocks away on Main Street. Sanctuary is pet-friendly with a commitment to pet rescue.

Three wineries produce high-quality wines from European varietals.

The newest – Point Lookout Vineyards – is located atop a 3,000-foot mountain with panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards, the area’s first vineyard, is on farmland that’s been in the family for more than nine generations. And two miles from Saint Paul, Burntshirt Vineyards offers tastings in its renovated farmhouse overlooking rolling hills of vines.

For complete Hendersonville information and lodging details, call 800-828-4244 or go to: www.VisitHendersonvilleNC.org.

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N

MARK SOSIN

othing is more demanding in light-tackle fishing than to spot a fish and make a cast to it without much time to get ready. Speed and accuracy are the keys to a perfect presentation that results in a strike.

Several species of gamefish invade relatively shallow water in search of food as the incoming tide floods an area.

Catching them sometimes requires you to see them so you can present a bait or lure.

Your target species might be striped bass in San Francisco Bay or in coastal areas throughout the northeast. Jumbo bluefish charge across the skinny portions of Chesapeake Bay each spring because the menhaden are there. Redfish might be your target in Texas and along the Gulf Coast.

Down in Florida, the shallows are full of life with species such as bonefish, permit, tarpon, jacks, sharks and other critters.

Concentration is critical in spotting fish or in determining signs of fish. It’s a mental discipline as well as a physical one. If you’re working off-color water, start by scouting the surface for any signs of activity. It could be a swirl or a boil or surface water being pushed by moving fish. Your goal is to identify anything different from the surrounding water.

Expand your search area to waters a considerable distance away. Don’t overlook slicks, muds or anything else out of the ordinary.

When the water is shallow and a fish noses down to eat something on or near the bottom, its tail often lifts above the surface and can be spotted at a significant distance. Species such as redfish may lift their caudal fin in the air and it, too, can be seen. Tails or fins may only show for a moment or two, but if you are concentrating, you should be able to spot them.

It takes practice to see fish, even in clear water. The trick involves staring through the surface of the water as if it were a pane of glass. Focus on the bottom or just above it. Your eyes should scan the area as if they were a radar antenna, moving right, left and center. And don’t forget to look far out across the water to detect the flash of a tail, wakes, birds or any other signs of activity.

Some species may lie motionless waiting to ambush a tasty meal, while others keep moving. As you scan through the surface, a silver colored fish might look black. When a fish picks a morsel off the bottom, it creates a small puff of mud.

Experienced eyes identify this very slight discoloration in the water, and the angler knows that something was just there. If you continue to see fresh puffs, cast a bait or lure in the area.

The results could be impressive.

Presenting a bait or lure to a fish you can see is certainly the ultimate angling challenge. Putting yourself in those situations can be very demanding, requires total concentration, and, at times can prove frustrating. At the end of the day, you might be tired, but the successful experience will brighten your memory for days to come.

For more from Mark Sosin, visit

CAMFISHING.COM

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At Harbor Freight Tools, the “Compare to” price means that the specified comparison, which is an item with the same or similar function, was 1,000+ Stores Nationwide • HarborFreight.com advertised for sale at or • above the “Compare to” price by another national Iretailer in the U.S. 2020 within the past I 90NATIONAL days. Prices advertised by 19 others COASTALANGLERMAG.COM THEANGLERMAG.COM MARCH *Original coupon only. No use on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase or without original receipt. Valid through 5/3/20. may vary by location. No other meaning of “Compare to” should be implied. For more information, go to HarborFreight.com or see store associate.

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t’s official! After years of drastically curtailed federal seasons and bag limits, NOAA fisheries voted in February to implement state management for private anglers fishing for red snapper in the Gulf of Mexico.

Under an exempted fishing permit (EFP), the five Gulf Coast states—Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas— managed the private recreational Photo courtesy of Capt. Chester Reese, red snapper fishery in the Gulf Natural World Charters. of Mexico for the 2018 and 2019 fishing seasons and saw remarkable success. The EFP was the result of a multi-year effort to give the states control after the status quo federal management approach reduced the Gulf red snapper season to an astounding three days for private anglers in federal waters.

“State management of Gulf red snapper has been a game-changer for anglers,” said Kellie Ralston, with the American Sportfishing Association. “Because of their targeted data collection and their ability to quickly respond to what’s going on inseason, each of the Gulf states has been able to provide substantial red snapper seasons for the private recreational sector. None of this would have been possible without the leadership of the states, the Secretary of Commerce and our Congressional champions. Making this management a long-term reality through the formal approval of Amendment 50 ensures this great success story will continue for years to come.”

At the Gulf Council meeting in January, each state gave a report on their data collection program and emphasized their ability to incorporate local factors to ground-truth the harvest data and to nimbly adjust the season. This state-level approach provides far greater flexibility in fishery management versus the federal one-size-fits-all, static regulations. Anglers trust the state systems because they are responsive and the regulations match the conditions seen on the water. With an independent analysis of red snapper populations set to be released in the next few months, anglers are hopeful for continued gains in the management of the Gulf red snapper fishery.

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Subject to credit approval. Not all buyers will qualify. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on creditworthiness. $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 01/01/20 and 03/31/20. “Gimme Six”, the Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2020 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.

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HondaMarine_TheAngler_2020_700Off_8.125x10.875.indd 1

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