Coastal Angler Magazine - March / North Central Florida by Coastal Angler Magazine

NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA/NATURE COAST EDITION

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Outdoor Apparel Palm Beach International Boat Show March 22-25, 2018

Local

Llebroc Changes The Game

Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events

PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHAEL GRANT – TEAM THREE BUOYS VOLUME 23 • ISSUE 277

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

A V A I L A B L E

MARCH 2018

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BOOST YOUR CATCH w/RezBoostTM Technology

Interested in getting the most out of your own trusted transducer, or not sure you’re ready for the expense of installing a new CHIRP transducer? Furuno has a solution that will get the very best performance from your traditional narrowband transducer. Our RezBoostTM Fish Finders deliver clearer images than ever before, we’re talking up to 8x sharper. Whether it’s NavNet TZtouch2 or the FCV588/FCV628 stand-alone Fish Finders, RezBoostTM will boost your catch!

Get up to 8x sharper resolution, using a standard narrow band transducer, to more clearly define fish targets.

Assess individual fish size and depth based on echo strength for fish from 4 inches to over 6 feet.

Identify the sea floor composition from four types (Rocks/Sand/Gravel/Mud).

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CEO / EDITOR IN CHIEF : Ben Martin • camads@coastalanglermagazine.com COO : Tracy Patterson • tracy@coastalanglermagazine.com ART DIRECTOR : Rebecca Snowden • graphics@coastalanglermagazine.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR : Nick Carter • editorial@coastalanglermagazine.com WEBMASTER : Dmitriy Pislyagin • webmaster@coastalanglermagazine.com ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: Corporate Headquarters info@coastalanglermagazine.com • 888-800-9794

Dear Readers,

FLORIDA

BIG BEND : Mike McNamara • (850) 510-7919 • captmike@coastalanglermagazine.com BREVARD : Chris Milner • (321) 631-1001 • cmilner@coastalanglermagazine.com DAYTONA/NEW SMYRNA BEACH : Don Meadows • (321) 436-5895 • donm@coastalanglermagazine.com FLORIDA KEYS : Cliff Lumpkin • (305) 849-9093 • cliff@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT LAUDERDALE : Gene Dyer • (954) 680-3900 • gene@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT MYERS : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER ORLANDO : Phillip & Giselle Wolf • (407) 790-9515 • phillip@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER MIAMI : Gene Dyer • (954) 680-3900 • gene@coastalanglermagazine.com LAKELAND & SUMTER : Mary Brasher • (352) 598-4219 • maryf@coastalanglermagazine.com NAPLES : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com NC FLORIDA/NATURE COAST : Cary & Lynn Crutchfield • (352) 372-4237 • crutch@coastalanglermagazine.com NE FLORIDA : Danny Patrick • (904) 742-4696 • danny@coastalanglermagazine.com PANAMA CITY/FORGOTTEN COAST : Randy Cnota • (229) 834-7880 • randyc@coastalanglermagazine.com PALM BEACH COUNTY : Barbara Ryan • (561) 373-8040 • barbara@coastalanglermagazine.com SARASOTA : Phil Prevoir • (239) 257-4684 • pprevoir@coastalanglermagazine.com TAMPA BAY : Chuck Atkins • (239) 464-5153 • chuck@coastalanglermagazine.com TREASURE COAST : Misti & Gary Guertin • (772) 285-6850 • treasurecoast@coastalanglermagazine.com

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SOUTHEAST

ATLANTA : Bob & Brenda Rice • (706) 614-8231 • bobr@theanglermagazine.com CHARLESTON : Jane A. Redden • (205) 725-9616 • jane@coastalanglermagazine.com

Sam Buckareff • (843) 607-8629 • sam@coastalanglermagazine.com

CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT : Mark & Haley Alberghini • (704) 651-1934 • mark@theanglermagazine.com COLUMBIA/MIDLANDS : John Lux • (803) 807-6885 • jlux@theanglermagazine.com MYRTLE BEACH : Mike Masiero • (732) 674-3019 • mmasiero@coastalanglermagazine.com SW GEORGIA : Bob & Brenda Rice • (706) 614-8231 • bobr@theanglermagazine.com TIDEWATER/OUTER BANKS : John Tiger • (757) 707-9654 • john.tiger@coastalanglermagazine.com

Laura Tiger • (757) 707-9655 • laura@coastalanglermagazine.com

WESTERN NC : Debra & Joe Woody • (828) 775-9663 • woody@theanglermagazine.com WILMINGTON/MOREHEAD : Kenny Ritter • (910) 550-9094 • kenny@coastalanglermagazine.com

NORTHEAST BOSTON : George Regan • (617) 488-2842 • boston@coastalanglermagazine.com LONG ISLAND : Lisa & Michael Danforth • (203) 321-7635 • lisad@coastalanglermagazine.com CONNECTICUT/RHODE ISLAND : Lisa & Michael Danforth • (203) 321-7635 lisad@coastalanglermagazine.com

GULF COAST MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST : Adam Nelson • (228) 627-5903 • anelson@coastalanglermagazine.com

Owning a Fishing Magazine

This edition of the magazine is being brought to you by your local publisher. Their contact information is shown on the left of this page. They’re doing a great job to make sure that you receive accurate fishing forecasts and marine related information every month. They also ensure that you can easily find a copy of the magazine throughout your community. They also make sure that this magazine continues to be available to you for free. As you read the magazine, you’ll notice that business owners place their ads in the magazine. That’s what keeps this magazine free to the public. Your local publisher of the magazine would appreciate you letting these businesses know that you saw their ad in the magazine and that you appreciate their support of this resource. Our publishers do a great job of providing this resource to your community. You might even consider sending them an email or a call to let them know you appreciate what they do. Everybody enjoys hearing “Good job” from time to time. If you or someone you know would be interested in learning about our franchise opportunities, we would love to hear from you. We want to expand our magazine throughout the country. Owning your own fishing magazine requires hard work and dedication, but it can be a very rewarding profession. Some say “the best job you’ll ever have.” We currently have over 30 locations, and we have been franchising the magazine for 10 years. If you would like to turn your passion for the outdoors into a profession, give us a call. We may have just what you’ve been looking for. Best regards,

Toby Nelson • (228) 623-1761 • tnelson@coastalanglermagazine.com

GREAT LAKES WEST MICHIGAN : Phil Belsito • (616) 957-1714 • phil@theanglermagazine.com

INTERNATIONAL PUERTO RICO/VIRGIN ISLANDS : Ace Bassue • (407) 285-9453 • ace@coastalanglermagazine.com COSTA RICA : Mike Erickson • (561) 262-2242 • mike@coastalanglermagazine.com © 2018. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. Disclaimer: Coastal Angler Magazine / The Angler Magazine will not be held liable for injuries incurred while partaking in activities described herein, or for claims made against products or services provided by advertisers. SAFETY

Ben Martin Editor in Chief info@coastalanglermagazine.com

1-888-800-9794

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MARCH 2018

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Outdoor Apparel FISH HIPPIE FLATWATER COLLECTION SHUCKERHUT PLAID Those who live an outdoor life should be able to represent it in their casual lives as well as “out there.” That’s the idea behind Fish Hippie, which was created by anglers who favor good times with friends, time on the water and “drifting off course” as often as life allows. New for spring 2018 from the Fish Hippie Flatwater Collection, the Shuckerhut Plaid blends on-the-water comfort with casual style of the highest quality. Designed with comfort and versatility in mind, the Shuckerhut delivers a silky-smooth touch with an apt range of movement and flexibility. Hidden-button collars prevent dreaded “collar flare,” while double chest pockets and two back shoulder pleats converge for an elevated level of functional, yet casual, style. The specially created four-way stretch fabric is 30+ upf, wrinkle and stain resistant and is easily worn fishing, as well as to the office or a night on the town. The Flatwater Collection is the latest offering from Fish Hippie for those more at home on the road less traveled. Learn more about Fish Hippie and survey all the lifestyle-driven gear and apparel at www.fishhippie.com.

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L.L.BEAN ULTIMATE FISHING SHIRT L.L.Bean recently introduced its new Ultimate Fishing Shirt, and it’s exactly what you need for a long day on the flats or a wade trip up your favorite stream. The Ultimate Fishing Shirt is a technical fishing shirt, thoughtfully designed with a combination of fabrics for ease of movement, comfort and durability. It looks good and keeps you dry with moisturewicking fabrics, but what makes it the Ultimate Fishing Shirt is its ability to provide protection from both biting insects and the sun’s harmful rays. With UPF 50+ sun protection and No Fly Zone technology to repel insects, this shirt eliminates two of the most prominent factors that lead to discomfort on the water. It features four chest pockets to hold essential gear, it can be worn tucked or untucked, the sleeves can be rolled up and secured, and an extended collar unrolls from hidden snaps to provide added protection from the sun. The slightly fitted design offers a relaxed fit through the chest and sleeve, with a slightly slimmer waist to both look good and provide for unhindered movement. The Ultimate Fishing Shirt is available in Dusty Sage, Marine Blue and Graystone colors.

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CAPSMITH REEL ANGLER HEADWEAR

SHIMANO EVAIR BOAT SHOES

Do you need custom headwear? Capsmith Inc. is the No. 1 trusted source for fishing and outdoor enthusiasts with more than 33 years of experience in the headwear industry. A wholesale distributor of fishing headwear, Capsmith has a line of stylish hats designed specifically for anglers. Their Reel Angler headwear collection celebrates life out on the water. Their in-stock Reel Angler collection comes in a variety of cool fish designs including dolphin, marlin, tarpon, sailfish, yellowfin, bass, snook, seatrout and redfish. These five-panel caps feature sublimation printed crown and bill inspired by nautical maps. A 3D embroidered Reel Angler logo on crown adds a premium look to this one-of-a-kind cap that features an extended bill with a green undervisor to avoid water glare. A soft performance mesh back and snapback closure ensures comfort for extended wear. Wholesalers, distributors or custom-made customers can contact Capsmith at 1-800-228-3889 or sales@capsmith.com.

Perfect on the deck of or a boat, Shimano’s new Evair boat shoes offer both style and function for all kinds of fishing. The ultra lightweight EVA midsole provides all-day comfort, and if they get wet, the upper mesh is made from a quick dry fabric. The heel can be bent down to wear like a sandal. Relying on its expertise with cycling shoes from its bicycle components division, and Shimano’s success with its Evair marine/ fishing sandal and award-wining Evair flats boots, Evair boat shoes include design features like a exposed EVA soft material on the inside front sole to better grip a trolling motor pedal. The non-marking sole is welcomed on any boat, plus it provides traction on a wet surface. Designed, developed and manufactured by Shimano, Evair boat shoes are offered in two colors – blue and navy – and in whole sizes from 7 through 13.

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This woven button-up, longsleeved shirt is fully featured with Columbia’s new Omni-Shade Sun Deflector and OmniFreeze Zero to help keep you cool and protected for long days on the water. This key style for Columbia PFG is strategically zoned and offers the sun-deflecting dots exactly where you need it on the shoulders and back, to help protect against harmful UVA and UVB rays. In addition, this shirt has a sun protection collar, roll-up sleeves, rod holder and Light Rail zippered chest pockets.

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CAPITAL SPORTSMAN ULTIMATE HYBRID The Ultimate Hybrid from Capital Sportsman is more than a great fishing shirt. Capital Sportsman set out to design one shirt that would be functional for any outdoor activity, while being stylish enough for indoor activities – the ultimate

hybrid shirt. Available in three original patterns, four solid colors and limited-edition seasonal patterns, it was designed for comfort and is made of a 100% cotton twill fabric with a baby-soft hand. It also has a special “soft-as-butter” under the arms and in a back vent which provides exceptional ventilation. A relaxed fit provides freedom of movement for casting. Other features include a roll-up sleeve tab, two easy-access chest pockets and a secured zipper pocket for important documents such as a license or passport. There is also a utility loop, which is important if you need to keep that extra fly handy. The Ultimate hybrid already has people talking. Cory “Ruthless” Routh of Ruthless Outdoor Adventures said the Ultimate Hybrid is, “more comfortable than anything I’ve ever tried on. I can go from the field to the office, no problem.”

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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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Product Reviews

SIMMS CHALLENGER JACKET

KLUCH MAKIN’ MOVES COLLECTION

From bitter early morning cold through late-afternoon storms, the outside elements can be a distraction when you’re zoning in on the end of your line. Simms’ men’s Challenger Jacket fights back against the elements with heavy-duty Toray fabric and fully taped seams for completely waterproof, breathable comfort. Fleece-lined pockets warm your hands in the most numbing weather. An adjustable storm hood packs away in the collar, and a storm flap with water-resistant zippers adds protection from the driving rain. This jacket will keep you warm and dry while you fish, regardless of the type of fishing you do.

Whether you’re making a move toward the hot bite or looking to reset your spread, the new Kluch Makin’ Moves collection has the perfect shirt for every offshore angler. These shirts are available in short or long sleeve cotton. Each shirt sports a classic distressed design with comfort in mind. Head on over to Kluch.com today and get your hands on one before they’re gone!

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Hooked Soul is an outdoor apparel company offering premium men’s and women’s clothing, specifically designed for extended wear, comfort and with anglers and outdoor enthusiasts in mind. Hooked Soul is an extension of the wearer’s passion for sports, hobbies, and lifestyle experiences with family and friends. Whether fishing in the blue waters of the ocean or freshwater lakes, rivers and streams, each outdoorsman demands comfort and protection from the elements. Hooked Soul was founded in 2014 by three friends and fishing enthusiasts. The inspiration for Hooked Soul came from being outside, the camaraderie and the thrill of the day’s catch. Their passion for an outdoor lifestyle led these three friends to research and bring to market superior performance clothing, the kind they always wanted for themselves. Today Hooked Soul has become an expression and a lifestyle. Hooked Soul, do you have it?

HOOKED SOUL

WWW.KLUCH.COM REALTREE FISHING HAT Realtree has always been about family, friends and the outdoors. As the America’s No. 1 camo pattern, the iconic brand has been providing quality to those who love the outdoors since the 1980s. Last year, Realtree entered into the fishing world with a lifestyle brand ideal for sportsmen and women who trade their bows and guns for fishing rods during the summer months. Realtree Fishing gives an additional connection to the brand they know and respect. Check out their good-looking Realtree fishing hats. They come in several different colors and designs perfect for fishing or everyday wear. These mid-profile hats feature the cool fishhook Realtree Fishing logo embroidered in the front panel, mesh backing and plastic snap closure.

WWW.REALTREE.COM SOFTSCIENCE FIN 3.0

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DICKIES WATERPROOF BREATHABLE REFLECTIVE JACKET From the job site to the boat deck, Dickies’ Waterproof Breathable Reflective Jacket has it all. It keeps you comfortable, dry and protected from the elements while providing greater visibility in low light conditions. • Waterproof: The jacket is water resistant and its chest and lower pockets feature waterproof zippers. • Breathable: At just 5.6 ozs., this jacket is lightweight and breathable to keep you comfortable no matter the conditions. • Reflective: For safety, this jacket features enhanced visibility in low light conditions. It appears to light up when light is flashed upon it. 100% Polyester reflective print 10K/10K lamination.

WWW.DICKIES.COM OT WEAR CUSTOM APPAREL OT Wear designs using vivid colors and unique, custom graphics to exceed their customers’ expectations. Their professional designers create custom jerseys and athletic apparel for whatever activity you choose. Distinctive dye-sublimated graphics combined with vivid colors on high performing, comfortable and durable apparel will give you a distinctive edge to stand out from the crowd. Your sponsors will be blown away with how their logos are showcased on your jersey. Let OT Wear outfit you or your team in style with a range of men’s and women’s cuts and

The Fin 3.0 fishing shoe adds a four-eye textile lacing system, an easy-on pull tab and EVA reinforcements on critical toe, forefoot and ankle locations to provide maximum stability in virtually any weather condition. Like all SoftScience shoes, it is lightweight, superbly cushioned and stable, with a woven, breathable reinforced upper. The forefoot water flow system is ideal for worryfree water activity, keeping your feet stable and not slippery. A relaxed fit, the shoes have a removable, washable Trileon insole and Trileon nonmarking, slip-resistant outsole.

WWW.SOFTSCIENCE.COM choice of performance fabrics. They can give you true brand consistency by matching your other marketing materials. Submit your own artwork or let the designers work with your graphics to create highperformance apparel that is unique to you. You will have a stunning, unique look that won’t be matched by others. All of OT’s apparel is made in the USA, from fabric to finished product. Contact them today and let them help you create an extraordinary new look for you or your team.

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FISH & FISHING

Finding The Touch MARK SOSIN

oo many anglers blame what they consider the obvious when they are not catching fish. They reason that the fish aren’t hungry, they’re not fishing in the right spot, or the lure they have chosen is not producing the results they expected. Sometimes, it merely takes a subtle touch to turn frustration into success. Although my father fished around the bend many years ago, I still marvel at his skill working a yellow Upperman bucktail in the ¼- or 3/8-ounce size. To this day, I have never met an angler who could come close to matching his success with that single lure. He caught countless species on that bucktail, from striped bass, bluefish and weakfish, to redfish, trout, bonefish, permit and tarpon. Even when I stood next to him and tried to match his every move, I fell far short. What that taught me is that some simple thing in the retrieve (or lack of one) can make a major difference. Let me share a few examples with you. Two of us fishing side-by-side were casting MirrOlures. They were the same model and the same color. He would get strike after strike, while I could barely get a fish to hit my lure. No matter how closely I watched him, I couldn’t detect any difference in the area we fished and the speed of the retrieve. I had to threaten to physically harm him if he didn’t tell me what he was doing. The only difference was that he occasionally vibrated his wrist on the hand

holding the rod. That caused the lure to flash just like a baitfish, and a predator reacted to that instantly. In another example, my friend and I were both fishing a swimming plug with a lip. During the retrieve, it would dive down, but if you stopped reeling the lure would start to float back to the surface. Once again, my partner got strike after strike, and I could barely catch an occasional fish. All he was doing was swimming the plug for a short distance, pausing for an instant, and then continuing the retrieve. Every time he paused, the plug would start to rise in the water column and then dive again when he resumed reeling. The sudden dive made it appear the lure was trying to escape from a predator. That’s all it took. Here’s one more example. The successful angler would start with a rather slow retrieve and then speed it up about halfway back to the boat. If a fish happened to see the plug, the change in speed would make it appear as if the plug were trying to get away and that’s a trigger mechanism. Seasoned anglers who fish artificials and score frequently limit the number of lures they carry and develop a touch for each one that produces strikes. Basically, there is more than one way to fish any artificial. My suggestion is that you keep trying a variety of subtle approaches until you become the angler that others envy and try to copy.

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MARCH 2018

NATIONAL

2/16/18 12:35 PM

FLY FISHING

Fly Reel Backing

osing a big saltwater gamefish after it is hooked and decides to head for the horizon is, in many instances, the result of filling your reel with backing that is either too short or too light. It can ruin an otherwise wonderful trip. Also, making wrong choice in backing can lose you not only your fish, but worse, it can cost you a very expensive fly line. Twenty-pound backing is a good choice for most inshore saltwater fly fishing situations, and 30-pound backing will more than fill the bill in getting you through a tussle with an uncooperative bluewater gamefish. The Old School Frame Of Mind: Dacron These days there are many choices when it comes to choosing backing for your fly reels. Some anglers prefer braided backing because of its small diameter. I prefer the tested and trued performance of standard hi-vis Dacron. Why? Because, It’s easier on the fingers while fighting big fish, and it does not have the tendency—as braid does—to dig into itself when reeled back onto the fly reel. How Much Do You Need? Your fly reel should house a minimum of 175 yards of 20-pound Dacron backing. Many inshore saltwater gamefish will make initial runs of from 75 to 100 yards before they turn and settle into a fighting mode. For bluewater fly fishing, 30-pound Dacron or gel spun is standard. A minimum of 300 yards should fill these reels. Big bluewater gamefish like the tuna and marlin will run off 200

yards of backing before you’ve had time to say, “Come back and fight like a man!” These fish can also dive to great depths, thus making essential an abundant supply of backing. One caveat to remember is “Don’t short-line your backing.” Best Color For Backing? The phrase “getting into your backing” always arouses excitement through a saltwater fly fisherman’s being each time he hears it. There is nothing more exciting than witnessing one hundred yards of water-shedding backing slicing through the water, pulled by a bonefish, tarpon, sailfish or marlin. It’s a common occurrence in saltwater fly fishing. When this happens, the color of your backing is essential in tracking the fish’s direction. Is it swimming at an angle or is it sounding. Make no mistake, eventually every saltwater fisherman experiences this. High-visibility backing will help determine how to fight the fish. For instance, when tarpon fishing it is important that you are able to turn a tarpon’s head during the tussle, a move aimed at keeping the tarpon off balance and assuring the fish is brought quickly to the boat. Also, the use of hivis backing allows the angler a better sight-line in tracking the fish’s direction so pressure may be applied in an opposite direction. The best colors? As I stated above, I prefer hi-vis backing in bright yellow or bright orange, both highly visible backing regardless of weather conditions or water coloration.

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hen Yamaha introduced the 19-foot 190 FSH center console boat in 2016, the company tapped into a segment of boaters who want to fish more than runabout owners, but who also want to tow and entertain more than other center console owners. By all accounts, Yamaha’s “family sports hybrid” concept proved to be a success. Featuring an innovative, yet familiar, center console deck design, a performance sports boat hull, and the versatility unique to jet power, the 190 FSH is attracting more younger, first-time buyers than traditional center console brands, and is already the second best seller in the category. For 2018, Yamaha is expanding their FSH offering to include a 21-foot model that is better suited for rougher waters and delivers the added peace of mind that comes with dual engines. And because the motors and driveline are tucked in the hull underneath the captain’s leaning post, the boat provides an open 360-degree experience that fishermen love. The 210 FSH includes all the features that fishing enthusiasts require, along with family features that are perfect for an entire day out on the water to include water sports, swimming and lounging—all in the same boat, and at a competitive price starting under $40,000. The 210 FSH is available in three variations that include the base model 210 FSH, an upgraded 210 FSH Deluxe, and the flagship 210 FSH Sport that offers the features of the Deluxe with the addition of a custom T-top. All three models come with Yamaha’s award-winning TR-1 High Output marine engines. 210 FSH Walkthrough Starting at the bow, there is comfortable, padded seating with ample room for four adults. The padded cushions snap off, so they are easy to store or leave at home when you are heading out for a fishing trip. Under the starboard bow seat is an insulated fish locker, and there is a dedicated locker for a full-size Danforth anchor. There is more storage below the port bow seat, in the sole, and inside two large consoles. In front of the helm console is more seating, and the console lifts up to reveal a cavernous storage area that also serves as a changing room or a head compartment thanks to the curtain enclosure included on the Deluxe and Sport models. The 210 FSH is loaded with the angling features one would ex-

NATIONAL

MARCH 2018

CANGL_NAT3-NAT34.indd 16

pect in a premium center console boat to include coaming pads, vertical and horizontal holders for 14 rods and a 26-gallon aerated live well. A cool feature you won’t find on other center console boats is Yamaha’s exclusive Jet Wash system that uses pressure from the jet pumps for easy cleanup of the cockpit, whether you land a big fish or the kids fill the boat full of sand. The Helm The helm is thoughtfully designed with a simple-to-remove windshield for low profile storage, a stainless-steel sports steering wheel, easy access to all boat control switches, a locking glove box and an open area to flush mount electronics such as a fishfinder, a GPS unit and other marine electronics. The 210 FSH comes equipped with Yamaha’s 4.3” Connext Touchscreen Display, which is NMEA compatible to send vital engine information to third-party electronics. Behind the helm is a padded leaning post with a backrest (on Deluxe and Sport). Under the leaning post is a dedicated space for a removable cooler. The Transom The transom area on the FSH Series is unlike any other center console boat on the market. Since the engines and drivetrain are in the hull, the entire back of the 201 FSH is open for unobstructed casting and watersports towing. The 210 FSH features Yamaha’s signature two-tier swim platform that sits low at the water’s edge. A retractable stern ladder makes reboarding after swimming a breeze. The transom also includes a tow eye for watersports. Like all Yamaha boats, the 210 FSH features Yamaha’s patented clean-out ports that allow for the removal of debris from the jet pump without having to get in the water or swim under the boat. Rounding out the FSH’s list of innovations is the addition of Yamaha’s Articulating Keel, the latest in Yamaha’s Advanced Responsive Handling features. The Articulating Keel is an extension of the boat’s keel that moves and tracks along with the jet pump nozzle to provide comfort, stability and straight-line tracking at all speeds. For buyers attracted to the iconic styling of a center console boat, but need more versatility to appease the family, look no further than the Yamaha 210 FSH.

For more on Yamaha’s 210 FSH Series, go to

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Center sp W

ho doesn’t have a smile on their face when they’re spending time on the water? You can’t help yourself. Boating is getting away from it all. And getting away from it all is always more fun with friends. This is where the United States Power Squadrons – America’s Boating Club comes in. Enjoying your time on the water with family and friends starts with being safe and responsible while having fun. That’s what makes America’s Boating Club different than most boating organizations. For over a hundred years, the organization’s focus has been on providing unsurpassed boating safety education. But the organization’s leadership and members are passionate about a membership that doesn’t end on Sunday and doesn’t care if the calendar says it’s winter. It’s about being together and building a community through a variety of events like parties, meetings and even just getting together for no reason at all. Driven by this passion, United States Power Squadrons – America’s Boating Club, the country’s largest nonprofit boating organization, just launched its new logo. This is the first of several planned updates in the organization’s new brand image and identity. Changes to the organization’s website, social media platforms and collateral are expected in the coming weeks. “We are United States Power Squadrons, but we are also America’s Boating Club,” said Louie Ojeda, chief commander, United States Power Squadrons. “This is not just a name change, it describes what we do. We go boating and have fun doing it. Over time, our squadrons have evolved to become social clubs as well as providers of high quality boating education – allowing members to enjoy the sport and camaraderie of boating and any number of activities that keep us together. Togetherness is what this lifestyle is all about. We joined the organization for the boating education, but we stayed for the friends.” Offering classes For Boaters, By Boaters in boat handling, navigation, boat maintenance, weather and related subjects, United States

Power Squadrons – America’s Boating Club serves as a virtual “yacht club” with boating and social activities for all types of recreational boaters. With over 27,000 members organized into 356 squadrons across the country, America’s Boating Club is comprised of families who contribute to their communities by promoting safe boating through education. Squadron members are vital to strengthening the communities

they live in and know it’s important to live their values by giving back through public service and volunteer opportunities. Members provide courtesy vessel safety checks, help the NOAA’s National Ocean Service keep nautical charts accurate and organize beach cleanups. “Our commitment is to continue learning, teaching, laughing and helping our fellow members enjoy boating,” continued Ojeda. “Whether you’re passionate about cruising, racing, making new friends, volunteering in your community or learning from experienced boaters, your local squadron has the resources you need to engage your passions and, perhaps, instill some new ones.” In February of 2017, the United States Power Squadrons announced its America’s Boating Club co-brand to its squadrons, following an almost yearlong re-naming exercise. To learn more about United States Power Squadrons – America’s Boating Club, visit www.americasboatingclub.org.

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FLORIDA

By Nick Carter

eam Beach Marine Products is riding a high headed into the second leg of the Meat Mayhem Tournament series at Palm Beach March 8-10. Rod man Teddy Beach used one word to describe their $10,000 win at the January Key West Kingfish Mayhem: “Monumental.” In rough conditions, the team weighed in a 65.2-pound kingfish on day two to win the first event of the three-leg series. But things weren’t so rosy on day one. With a 6:30 a.m. Bimini start, the team headed west out of Key West Harbour Marina aboard their 39’ SeaHunter “Prowess” toward the Dry Tortugas. Passing Marquesas Key, there were 8- to 10-foot swells. Beach said they were glad to have their Seakeeper stabilizer when it came time to set out the spread. “When we got to the fort, in 120 feet of water, the waves were stacking up past 10 feet,” he said. “Fishing conditions were tough. Water clarity was junk; it was just milky.” Team Beach Marine fought all day to find clean water. They lost four fish on the first day of the tournament and did not land a single king mackerel. The team, captained by Billy Delph, decided to make a move on day two. They left the docks that morning in 35 mph winds with 10- to 12-

foot seas. They headed west where they had located a temperature break in 95 feet of water. “We knew the area we were targeting,” Beach said. “And we knew it would pay off when the water clarity was good and the temperature was right at 78 degrees.” Several days prior, they began catching blue runners and penned them in two 300-gallon Beach Marine Pro Pens with false bottoms. So, they were fishing good, fresh and healthy bait as they slow trolled the break. The results were impressive. Along with two sailfish, they caught 15 kingfish. The smallest weighed 28 pounds, and they had four heavier than 40 pounds. Their back-up fish weighed well over 50 pounds, but the largest of the day was a 65.2-pound king mackerel. “When Daniel Delph stuck that fish, the mood on the boat was monumental,” said Beach. “We called it a day. We were sitting at the dock at 1:45 waiting for weigh-in.” Watching the weights after the 4:30 p.m. check-in, Beach Marine’s 65.2 was enough for the win. Team Xtended Play took second with a 62.4, and Team Tuppens took third with a 59.2. “Team Beach Marine Products is blessed to have such a great group of fishermen on board,” Beach said. “Our team efficiency and confidence are incredible. It just flows.” The team consists of: Billy Delph, Travis Holeman, Teddy Beach, Daniel Delph and David Delph. They thanked their sponsors: SeaHunter Boats, Furuno Electronics, Beach Marine Products, JL Audio, Seakeeper and Bass Pro Shops. Following the March 8-10 Palm Beach Mayhem, the third leg of the series is the Ft. Lauderdale Meat Mayhem April 26-29. Teams with the heaviest combined weight of one kingfish from each event will be competing for more than $20,000 in prizes. For more on Meat Mayhem tournaments, go to www.meatmayhemtournaments.com. For information on Beach Marine Products’ bait pens, go to beachmarineproducts.com.

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Center sp last major international yacht show of the yearly boat show season and therefore, is well attended by serious shoppers as well as many key industry executives. It’s a great show to do business and make a deal.” New this year, show guests are invited to enhance their visit with the Palm Beach International Boat Show VIP Experience. The private club will provide guests with fine food and refreshments in an artfully-designed, air-conditioned space with comfortable seating. One of the most attractive benefits of the VIP Experience is a dedicated concierge team to arrange yacht tours, dining reservations, private transportation and other personalized services. In addition to the large selection of boats and exhibits, the show offers fun and educational activities for the whole family, including free youth fishing clinics, sportfishing seminars, long-range cruising clinics and on-the-water boat handling classes. Attendees 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. General admission tickets cost $24 for adults and $14 for children 6 to 15 years old. Children under 6 are free. The show runs from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 22, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, March 23, and Saturday, March 24, and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, March 25.

he 33rd annual Palm Beach International Boat Show is March 22-25 along Flagler Drive in downtown West Palm Beach, directly across the Intracoastal Waterway from Palm Beach Is-

land. An annual mainstay of the yachting community, the Palm Beach International Boat Show attracts high-level boat buyers, charter clients, sportfishing enthusiasts and blue water anglers. Many of the world’s most renowned shipyards prize the show as a platform for conducting business with the global elite. “The Palm Beach International Boat Show holds a special place on many boating and yachting enthusiasts’ calendars,” said Mary Bender, vice president of marketing for Informa, the show’s producer. “It’s the

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2/16/18 10:37 AM

By Randy Cnota

pring means one thing to me… bedding bass! This is that magical time of the year when giant bass come to the shallows to procreate. Depending on where you fish, the first waves of bedding bass could show up in February or earlier, and in some places the spawn stretches through the spring and into summer. Their movement is affected by moon phases somewhat, but more so by water temperature. Once it’s in the 60-degree range, start combing the shallows for white spots where they’ve fanned out a bed with their tails. Once you’ve located them, it is important to understand that they’ve

located you. Bass are extremely aware of their surroundings. This makes it difficult at times to trigger a fish to take a lure. I like to run through an area with the trolling motor on high and put a 6-foot tomato stake right smack in the middle of the bed that’s holding the fish I intend to catch. Then I leave the area and allow the fish to calm down. During this waiting period, I might spend an hour doing the same thing in another area or probe the deeper areas surrounding the flat looking for pre- or post-spawn fish. Fish will be in all three spawning stages throughout spring, and any shallows that hold fish will have fish in the deeper water nearby. After an hour or so, sneak back quietly into the area you’ve staked out. Pole in, let the wind blow you in or troll in at a very low speed. Remember, you must be quiet, which means no banging around. Have everything you need on the deck of the boat. This is when a shallow-water anchoring system is worth its weight in gold. Minn Kota Talons and Power Poles are the premier systems available. Other less costly ways to anchor a boat are available as well, like Boatsticks at boatsticks.com. You’ll want to position your boat far enough from the bed to not spook the fish, but close enough to cast several yards beyond the target. You need two Texas-rigged baits—a Z-Man Grass KickerZ and a Punch CrawZ. These baits float in the upright position, which tells a bass that something is feeding on her eggs. Swim the Grass Kicker over the bed several times. This will get the fish fired up. Then hop it right into the bed and stop it. Give it a pulsating action. If this doesn’t provoke the fish to eat, try hopping the Punch CrawZ on the bed. Sometimes you have to go back and forth with those baits to entice a strike, but often you will get them to eat right away. When you do this enough, you’ll learn to understand the fish’s behavior. If a fish runs big circles away from the bed and is slow to come back, it might not be catchable. If she displays aggression and stays close to the bed, that’s a catchable fish. Randy Cnota is co-publisher of the Panama City/Forgotten Coast edition of Coastal Angler Magazine.

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By Will Robinson

hoosing the right fly reel can really make your head spin. From basic drags to sealed-disk braking systems, the prices and quality vary dramatically. My gut always tells me to get the best that I can. Buy it once and you won’t be replacing it in a couple of years. While this typically holds true for fly reels, there are instances when it can be overkill. If you are looking for an inshore 8-weight and will be typically chasing snook in the backcountry, the need for

a reel with a silky smooth drag and 300 yards of backing is pointless. You will likely be fighting most fish within 50 feet of you. And much of the time, you’ll be hand-lining them and have no need for a fancy drag system. In these situations, the reel is more of a line holder and can be much less expensive than their highly tuned cousins. A good starting point is deciding if you need a sealed drag reel. They are nice, and most are very well made with super smooth drags, but that comes at a price. A great advantage of these reels is that they are virtually maintenance free. The sealed drag keeps water out, so rinse them down well after fishing and, you are pretty much done. The negative is they are typically higher-end reels and a bit pricey. For nearly two decades I have fished with non-sealed drags and have never had an issue, but I need to do a little more maintenance and cleaning on those reels. Also, if you primarily fish from a boat where dunking a reel is not likely, this could be a great way to save some dough. Another important question is size, which often has to do with how much backing you think you will need. Since the tackle is lighter, it’s nice to have the line for long runs when fishing open areas, but again, if you typically fish tight spots there might not be a need for 300 yards of backing. Conversely, if you are looking to chase large tarpon or go offshore, you need plenty of backing. Larger arbors are great, even with limited backing. They allow you to pick up line at a much faster pace, making life easier on both the fish and fisher. Finally, opt for ported reels, as they are lighter and allow your backing to dry much faster. This is important for the longevity of the line. Smooth drags and plenty of backing are always nice. But be honest with yourself, this is an instance in which you can save a considerable amount of weight and money depending on the type of fishing you will be doing. Will Robinson is a seasoned tournament angler and has been writing about fishing for more than two decades. His picks for the best reels can be found at Galvanflyreels.com and Nautilusreels.com.

FWC Photo

n February, the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management council took steps toward turning over management of the Gulf red snapper fishery to the Gulf states. By approving Exempted Fishing Permit (EFP) applications for each of the five states on the Gulf of Mexico, the council opened the door for a pilot program that would allow each state to manage recreational fishing for red snapper during 2018 and 2019. Seasons for red snapper harvest would be determined by the respective states, and red snapper landings would be monitored by the states. State seasons would close when a state’s quota is caught. These EFPs are issued for scientific studies, and this study will determine the effectiveness of state management of the recreational red snapper fishery. At the federal level, NOAA Fisheries now must rule on whether or not to approve the program for implementation. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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MARCH 2018

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Fish until the cows come home.

Here in The Florida Keys & Key West, you can run-and-gun for dolphin in the morning, fly a kite for sailfish in the afternoon and battle giant swordfish deep into the night. So come down and milk the world’s best deep-sea fishing for all its worth.

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Islamorada On The Fly

TOM SCHLICHTER

andy Moret pointed to port: “10 o’clock!” he said in a hushed voice. “Lead them.” It took a second for me to sight in, but a moving shadow just beyond the bow brought things into focus. A pod of 70-pound tarpon were running a channel edge and we were perfectly positioned for an intercept. Late with the cast, I dropped my streamer on the nose of the lead fish, which promptly turned and powered into oblivion across the shallow flats of Florida Bay, compatriots in tow. Moret smiled and politely let me off the hook. “Happens all the time down here,” he said. “We’ll get another shot.” Chalk one up to lessons learned. A heavy front was moving in, and what had been a drizzly morning suddenly turned threatening, sending us racing back to port for a round of refreshments at the Lorelei Marina (www.loreleicabanabar.com/ marina-and-fishing). With the Florida Keys steadily rebounding from the devastating effects of Hurricane Irma, anglers across the country are once again making plans for an assault on the stellar flats fishery here. Featuring tarpon, bonefish, redfish, snook and sea trout, the shallows of Florida Bay and Everglades National Park on the village’s lee side are ideal for fly fishing and Moret, one of the founding fathers of long-wand sport in these waters, couldn’t be happier. “We still have a way to go before everyone is back on their feet, but we are getting there,” he said in a recent interview. “As for the fishing, it’s bounced back nicely.” As a guide and outfitter, Moret (www.floridakeysoutfitters. com) logically suggests first-timers to the area head out with a professional skipper. “It’s the quickest way to learn the intricacies of tempting local gamefish,” he explained. Still, he noted that the

fishing in these parts is consistent enough that those launching a kayak or even fishing from shore around bridges and passes have a chance to score. “The most important thing in the Keys is to practice your casting – especially when flyfishing,” he advised. “It’s vital to make a few casts in every spot you stop to factor in the wind, current and water depth courtesy of Sandy Moret before you even see the Photo Sandy Moret shows off a chunky Islamorada fish.” snook taken on the fly. Moret, recently honored with 2018 Fly Fisherman Conservationist of the Year Award by the Bonefish Tarpon Trust (www.bonefishtarpontrust.org), works a wide range of patterns but does have several favorites. He likes a size 4 creamand-tan Merkin with lead eyes for bonefish. For silver kings, a Keys Tarpon Streamer in purple and black is his choice for murky water. To target snook and redfish, he throws purple Deceivers in discolored water and yellow and white in clear water. Concentrate your efforts on rising tides to avoid groundings, he cautions, and keep moving until you find the fish. Getting to Islamorada is easy. Find your way to Miami or Fort Lauderdale and head south on U.S. 1. Once there, you’ll find plenty of places to stay including the world class Cheeca Lodge (www. cheeca.com) and Amara Cay Resort (www.amaracayresort.com).

Lake Erie Experienced

Record Walleye Fishing In 2017

Photo courtesy of Capt. Wes Carlton

uring the 2017 season, walleye anglers on Lake Erie experienced the highest recorded success in nearly 30 years. “The New York State waters of Lake Erie are world famous for outstanding angling opportunities for walleye, smallmouth bass and yellow perch,” said DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos. “Our Lake Erie waters have consistently ranked among

the top three most heavily fished waters in the state, and the fishery generates more than $26 million in economic activity annually. Anglers should take advantage of Lake Erie’s current conditions and experience this world-class walleye fishery for themselves in 2018.” DEC has conducted an angler survey on Lake Erie to estimate fishing quality and fish harvest annually since 1988. In recent years, walleye fishing quality has been generally increasing. Survey results for 2017 revealed record-high walleye catch rates that are nearly three times greater than the 30-year average. DEC estimates that anglers harvested more than 70,000 walleyes in 2017, a level not achieved since 1989. This exceptional fishing was due in large part to contributions of strong walleye reproductive success in 2010, 2012, 2014, and 2015. Recent evidence also suggests that walleye reproduction was strong again in 2016. Walleye are one of the most popular gamefish in New York, as they put up an exciting fight during the catch and make for tasty meal on the table. Walleye are aptly named because of their unique eyes that have a reflective layer of pigment called the tapetum lucidum, which allows them to see very well at night and during other low-light periods. This layer also gives walleye their “glassy-eyed” or “wall-eyed” appearance. Lake Erie is continually ranked among the world’s top walleye fishing destinations by angler publications, with an abundance of trophy-size walleye ranging from 8 to 10 pounds. Local tournament winners often score fish exceeding 11 lbs. Given that walleye typically live 10 years or more in Lake Erie combined with excellent reproduction rates in recent years, anglers should experience continued, exceptional walleye fishing in future years.

Boat Show Season -- See You at Your Local Boat Show

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252.235.2461

COASTAL ANGLER North Central Florida/Nature Coast

Cary & Lynn Crutchfield

ALACHUA, MARION, COLUMBIA, GILCHRIST, BRADFORD, DIXIE, LEVY AND CITRUS COUNTIES

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO US! With this March 2018 issue, we begin our SEVENTH year of publication. In March 2015, we added Dixie, Levy and Citrus Counties to our market, and this addition resulted in substantial growth; adding new writers, new advertising partners, new distribution locations and many new readers. We distribute 11,000 magazines each month in eight counties. We know that we are doing it right, because we are consistently in the TOP FIVE of our thirty-plus markets. See the “masthead” in front of this publication for these markets. You can visit our website, www.CoastalAnglerMagazine.com to access all of these magazines and read what is happening in the fishing world all over the US, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and Costa Rica. At our website, you can also enter to win the monthly give-away and sign up to receive Coastal Angler’s very informative monthly newsletter. See KISS YOUR CATCH. Tell them that I sent you! Speaking of websites, we have our own NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA/NATURE COAST website. Visit us at www.CoastalAnglerMag.com/nc-florida. Contact us for advertising opportunities on our website. Send me photos of your catch and you just might see yourself on our website. New advertising partner this month, Premier Pole Barns, located in Old Town. They are a brand-new business and are very anxious to talk to you about your new pole barn. See their ad on page 5. See page 6 for Suwannee River Bend RV Park. See page 2 for the FLYIN, CRUISE-IN and BUSINESS EXPO info at the airport in Cross City, Saturday March 24th. Cary and I will be there. Look for us. We would love to meet you! Also mark your calendar for Horseshoe Beach Spring Festival April 7th. Recipe this month, Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi on page 2. It is very easy (Came together is less than 30 minutes.) and very good. As we begin our seventh year, we want to first thank the folks at our Coastal Angler Corporate office for their ongoing support and assistance, especially as we embrace digital! We send a REALLY, REALLY, big thank you to our family of franchise owners across the country, for their generous sharing of advice, photos, articles, and sometimes just an understanding sympathetic ear. Thank you to our advertisers and distribution locations. (You can find us in Dick’s in Gainesville, Lake City and Ocala and Bass Pro Shops in Gainesville.) Thank you to our writers for their great forecasts and articles. Thank you to Kathleen, our graphic artist. You see her work on every page. Thank you to Rosa, our distribution assistant. Last, but certainly not least, thank you to YOU, our reader. If you stop picking up our FREE magazine, we will be out of business in a hurry. Lynn Crutchfield Co-Publisher Coastal Angler Magazine of North Central Florida /Nature Coast

MARCH 2018 EDITION

Find Your Outdoors Here! North Central Florida Nature Coast Staff SALES

Cary Crutchfield

EDITING & PRODUCTION Lynn Crutchfield

DISTRIBUTION Rosa Crisman

GRAPHIC ARTS & DESIGN Kathleen Stemley

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dr. Kevin McCarthy Bruce Butler John Freeze Noel Kuhn Capt. Jason Clark Capt. Dan Clymer Capt. Tommy Derringer Capt. Stacy Horak Capt. Jimbo Keith Capt. Pat McGriff Capt. Brett Selph Capt. Clay Shidler Capt. Brian Smith Capt. Dan Smith

CONTACT INFORMATION

crutch@coastalanglermagazine.com 352-372-4237 www.CoastalAnglerMag.com/NC-Florida

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Tide Charts Local Fishing Forecasts Monthly Recipe

Photo by: Suwannee River Water Management District

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LEMON GARLIC SHRIMP SCAMPI

Thank you to The Crab Plant for the shrimp. Visit their Fresh Seafood Market or enjoy Cooked Seafood to go. You are welcome to sit at their table and view beautiful Kings Bay while you enjoy your delicious, freshly prepared meal, watching manatees, dolphins, pelicans and boats. Or, you can carry it home; your choice. Open Tues-Thurs 10:00-5:30, Fri-Sat 10:00-8:00. 201 NW 5th St. Crystal River 352-795-4700.

COOKING DIRECTIONS

TIDES • North Central Florida Time Height

1Th

3Sa

4Su

6Tu

7W 8Th

12:54 AM 7:17 AM 1:27 PM 7:40 PM 1:46 AM 8:07 AM 2:15 PM 8:30 PM 2:36 AM 8:54 AM 2:59 PM 9:18 PM 3:24 AM 9:39 AM 3:43 PM 10:05 PM 4:12 AM 10:23 AM 4:27 PM 10:50 PM 5:01 AM 11:06 AM 5:12 PM 11:35 PM 5:52 AM 11:49 AM 6:00 PM 12:21 AM 6:47 AM 12:35 PM 6:51 PM

-1.0 4.7 -0.8 4.4 -1.1 4.7 -0.9 4.5 -1.0 4.6 -0.8 4.5 -0.8 4.4 -0.6 4.4 -0.5 4.1 -0.3 4.2 -0.1 3.9 0.0 4.0 0.3 3.6 0.3 3.8 0.5 3.4 0.5

HERNANDO BEACH

MARCH 2018

Time Height

1:10 AM 7:43 AM 1:24 PM 7:45 PM 10Sa 2:05 AM 8:38 AM 2:19 PM 8:41 PM 11Su 4:04 AM 10:31 AM 4:18 PM 10:35 PM 12M 5:01 AM 11:22 AM 5:14 PM 11:28 PM 13Tu 5:54 AM 12:10 PM 6:07 PM 14W 12:19 AM 6:42 AM 12:55 PM 6:55 PM 15Th 1:06 AM 7:26 AM 1:37 PM 7:39 PM 16F 1:50 AM 8:08 AM 2:16 PM 8:21 PM

3.7 0.7 3.3 0.7 3.6 0.8 3.2 0.7 3.6 0.7 3.3 0.6 3.7 0.6 3.4 0.5 3.8 0.5 3.5 0.3 3.9 0.3 3.7 0.1 4.1 0.0 3.9 -0.1 4.2 -0.2 4.1

KINGS BAY

High Tide -20 min Low Tide 58 min

High Tide 2 hrs, 20 min Low Tide 3 hrs, 7 min

CRYSTAL RIVER

WITHLACOOCHEE ENT

High Tide 36 min Low Tide 1 hr, 30 min

High Tide 7 min Low Tide 55 min

CEDAR KEY

Time Height

17Sa 2:31 AM 8:48 AM 2:53 PM 9:02 PM 18Su 3:11 AM 9:28 AM 3:30 PM 9:42 PM 19M 3:52 AM 10:07 AM 4:08 PM 10:22 PM 20Tu 4:34 AM 10:48 AM 4:49 PM 11:05 PM 21W 5:20 AM 11:31 AM 5:33 PM 11:52 PM 22Th 6:12 AM 12:19 PM 6:25 PM 23F 12:44 AM 7:10 AM 1:12 PM 7:24 PM 24Sa 1:42 AM 8:14 AM 2:12 PM 8:29 PM

Time Height

25Su 2:49 AM 9:19 AM 3:20 PM 9:36 PM 26M 4:00 AM 10:23 AM 4:31 PM 10:41 PM 27Tu 5:09 AM 11:24 AM 5:38 PM 11:44 PM 28W 6:10 AM 12:21 PM 6:37 PM 29Th 12:44 AM 7:06 AM 1:15 PM 7:31 PM 30F 1:40 AM 7:56 AM 2:04 PM 8:21 PM 31Sa 2:31 AM 8:44 AM 2:49 PM 9:09 PM

4.1 0.2 3.6 0.0 4.2 0.1 3.8 -0.2 4.3 -0.1 4.0 -0.3 4.4 -0.3 4.2 -0.5 4.5 -0.5 4.4 -0.7 4.5 -0.6 4.6 -0.7 4.5 -0.7 4.6

HOMOSASSA RIVER ENT

HORSESHOE BEACH

SUWANNEE ENT

STEINHATCHEE RIVER ENT

High Tide 4 hr, 30 min Low Tide 5 hr, 41 min High Tide 6 min Low Tide 18 min

2 NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA/NATURE COAST

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-0.2 4.2 -0.3 4.2 -0.3 4.2 -0.4 4.3 -0.4 4.1 -0.4 4.3 -0.3 4.0 -0.4 4.3 -0.2 3.9 -0.3 4.3 0.0 3.8 -0.2 4.3 0.2 3.7 -0.1 4.2 0.3 3.6 0.0

Combine oregano, Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs and parsley in small bowl.

High Tide 12 min Low Tide 20 min

High Tide 2 min Low Tide 0 min

MARCH 2018

In large skillet, sauté garlic in butter and oil for 1 to 2 minutes. (Watch closely; garlic burns easily!) Add shrimp, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Cook and stir until shrimp turn pink. Place cooked pasta in ovensafe dish. Add cooked shrimp and the luscious butter/ lemon sauce to pasta. Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture over shrimp. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes until mixture starts to brown.

INGREDIENTS Serves 4

• 3 Cloves Garlic minced • ¼ cup Butter • ¼ cup Olive Oil • 1 pound Shrimp (or 10/ serving) peeled and deveined • ¼ cup Lemon Juice • 1/4 teaspoon dried Oregano • ½ cup grated Parmesan Cheese • ¼ cup plain Panko bread crumbs • ¼ cup fresh Parsley minced • 8 oz. pasta of your choice (I chose angel hair.)

Note: This yummy dish takes less than 30 minutes and is fancy enough for company. Taste the sauce before adding to pasta. If too lemony, add a little salt or a little more lemon juice to taste. I prepared just for Cary and me so I cut back a little on all ingredients. Lynn Crutchfield, Co-Publisher Coastal Angler Magazine of North Central Florida

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

2/15/18 6:24 PM

FLORIDA WATERWAYS

Fishing Terms in Baseball

ach February and March, about half of the major-league teams and thousands of fans, come to Florida to attend spring-training games, at a time when all the teams are in first place, and most of the players are in top-notch, World Series shape. The six weeks of spring training consist of two weeks of practice by the players, and then four weeks of exhibition games among the teams before beginning the regular season. State officials By Kevin McCarthy claim that spring training generates over seven hundred million dollars to the state, including over three hundred million dollars from out-ofstate visitors each year. A lot of the players have enjoyed the warm weather of the state, which allowed them to swim and boat and fish, players like Babe Ruth, Ted Williams, and Boog Powell. As a linguist, i.e. one who is interested in our language, including the language of sports, I have long enjoyed such works as my 1000-page “Dickson Baseball Dictionary,” which shows how many hundreds of terms in English come from sports, including fishing. For example, the phrase “went fishing,” as in “The second baseman went fishing,” means that he reached across the plate trying to hit an outside pitch, especially one that he cannot easily reach. It is similar to “chasing a pitch.” By the same token “a fishing trip” can refer to the swinging at a pitch outside the strike zone: the player who went on a fishing trip hasn’t necessarily been away on a vacation; rather he took a swing at a bad ball. A “fish hook” can refer to a curveball, and a “fisherman” can refer to a batter who chases or casts for pitches outside the strike zone. And “fish cakes” in the 1930s, referred to low pay, particularly that which is paid in the minor leagues. Finally, a “fishy” nickname for a baseball player was "Catfish" for pitcher Jim Hunter, who

played for the Kansas City Athletics, Oakland Athletics, and New York Yankees (1965 – 1979). The picture here shows Catfish Hunter (on the left) with manager Billy Martin (in the middle), and catcher Brad Gulden (on the right). According to his autobiography, “Catfish: My Life in Baseball,” when Athletics owner Charles Finley signed the 19-year-old to a $75,000 contract in 1965, he told the young man that he needed a nickname for crowd appeal. When Finley found out that Hunter liked to hunt and fish, Finley came up with this story, which stuck: when Jim was six years old, he ran away from home and went fishing. When his mom and dad finally found him, Jim had caught two catfish. So, the young pitcher became Catfish Hunter. Now you know. Now get out and enjoy some baseball and/or fishing in our great spring weather Kevin McCarthy, the author of Baseball in Florida 1996 - (available at amazon.com), can be reached at ceyhankevin@gmail.com.

Another kind of fishing trip

An edible fish cake k

Another kind of fishhoo

Jim “Catfish” Hunter COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM MARCH 2018

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The baseball dictionary

A curve ball NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA/NATURE COAST 3

2/15/18 6:24 PM

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$8,999

* Image represents the Model. Model COAST pictured may differ from available on site, which includes• but is not limited to color, options, & rigging. 4 NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA/NATURE MARCH 2018thoseCOASTALANGLERMAG.COM THEANGLERMAG.COM ** Prices on all Models are subject to change without notice. Prices do not included tax, title or dealer prep.

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CRYSTAL RIVER March Madness

SEAFOOD AT ITS BEST!

pring flats fishing is a time that many anglers look forward to, with the best part of spring fishing being the incredible variety of species available this time of year. As the waters begin to warm up, our local species (trout, redfish, and snook) will begin to move out of the local rivers and creeks to the open flats and outer islands. At the same time, many of the nearshore migratory species will begin to make their way into our area and these species include Spanish mackerel, bluefish, tripletail, kingfish and of course cobia. The speckled trout will be found on the grass flats with the Gomez Rocks area, one of the best places to start your hunt for trout. Using

soft plastic jigs on 3-foot leader, underneath a popping cork, is a time- proven way to get the attention of quality speckled trout. I prefer an Unfair Lures Smack Tail on a ¼ ounce jig head below a Cajun Thunder popping cork. This rig also catches mackerel and bluefish equally as well. While drifting for trout, it’s a great idea to have a live pinfish drifting behind the boat under a cork, to hopefully give you a shot at a big cobia, which is an awesome bonus any day. Drifting the flats is a perfect way to spend a spring day.

EAT IN

TAKE OUT

$1 OFF Fresh Clam Strips Basket or Appetizer 50¢ OFF Cup of New England Clam Chowder $1 OFF Bowl of New England Clam Chowder

7364 W. Grover Cleveland Closed 2315 N. Sunshine Path Homosassa, FL 34446 Sunday and Crystal River, FL 34429

Capt. Clay Shidler ClayShidler@Yahoo.com

352-628-9588

Monday

352-795-9081

FLORIDA SUWANNEE RIVER WATERFRONT

FOR SALE 43 acres (+or-) 1100 feet (+or-) on Suwannee River in Lafayette County at US 27, across river from Branford. Heavily wooded, perfect for residence, camp ground or hunting lodge. Elec. and well.

Cary A. Crutchfield Registered Real Estate Broker GRI and CRS Designations

352.372.4237

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CAM_NCFL_0318.indd 5

MARCH 2018

NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA/NATURE COAST 5

2/15/18 6:24 PM

STEINHATCHEE

Room for Rent-Storage Only

Approximately 600 square feet | North SR 349

Old Town

250.00/ month

352.542.0356

Motel and Campground Accommodations

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63 219th St. Suwannee, Florida • 352-542-7086

March is a Step in the Right Direction

he month of March is a transition period here in the Big Bend area of Florida. The transition may be slow, fast or in between, but in the end, the start of March is quite different from the upswing end-of-the-month fishing action, leading into the beginning of April. The beginning of March, tends to be about the height of the sheepshead season, depending on moon phase and weather. The transition term is more reference to weather. Weather, is the current state of the atmosphere, which is dynamic short termed. Climate, is the historic pattern of weather. Cold is an on/off switch, while the moon phase is the transmission changing gears according to temperature. So, never totally count on a simple colloquial reference point to determine whether or not any fish is going to perform anything based on human expectation, within a very specific time frame. At best, it is an historic guess. Will it be off a lot? Not much, but every year has its uniqueness, distinctive as a fingerprint. However, historical and colloquial information is a very valuable starting point in which to make an educated guess. Consider, nature has never

moved toward stupidness; it is not designed to do so. It wants to perpetuate itself based on the most favorable conditions. The slow moves of nature garner better results. We should be thankful. Nature creates balance with a 100% success rate if not interfered with. And, we with greed? We strive toward the opposite direction in most cases. I’m off the information soapbox. The point is, that once the sheepshead determine when the time is right, they will go at it full spawn ahead. Because, sheepshead are distracted by a more important matter--spawning, and that matter requires more than average energy. They are hungry and vulnerable to over-fishing. It is never a great idea to mess with a fish during the spawn. It is stupid to over-harvest. A self-imposed five fish limit, while tossing back the egg-laden females, is a good effort toward maintaining balance. It is also a great teaching moment for all onboard. Once the sheepshead ‘limit’ is met, there are hordes of hungry Florida snapper and sea bass on the closest hard bottom to keep the action flowing. Fine dining with delicious sheepshead, let me share a favorite at our house. Grate some good potatoes, such as Yukon or red potatoes. Take your filets of sheepshead, season to your taste, both sides. Dip filet in an egg wash, lightly flour. I spread the shredded potatoes in a Pyrex pan, then lay the filets and press the grated potatoes onto the filet — both sides. Put into a cast iron skillet with about an inch of hot grease! (I like a mixture of butter and coconut oil OR peanut oil) Gently lay the filets in the pan 3 mins or until potatoes are golden brown. Carefully turn and cook the other side. Season to taste after cooking. This is a once a year specialty at our house. We have tried it on several fish, but this is truly the best combo for this recipe! Brian Smith | BIG BEND CHARTERS www.BigBendCharters.com CaptBrian@bellsouth.net

6 NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA/NATURE COAST

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MARCH 2018

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

2/15/18 6:24 PM

HORSESHOE BEACH

arch is here, and with it come HSB's spring red fish run with big reds. This time of the year, they are willing to hit just about anything offered to them! My groups have been successful using multiple methods whether it be artificial or live, they are just hungry and aggressive. My go-to bait on the artificial line-up are, the stinky fingers twitching shad in golden shiner, or baby bass or DOA shrimp in clear gold or white with chartreuse tail. Top water top dog by L&S mirror lure. Quality live shrimp are always hard to beat, so whenever I can get it, my groups will have a bait-well full of live bait. This is fished under a Cajun thunder or standard red band popping cork. As with most things,

changing the presentation on how you pop the cork can help, due to the simple fact, that sometimes they need a lot of noise to get the fish attraction, and other times they need very little noise or movement to get a reaction bite. So, change it up from time to time and make a few casts working your cork in a different pattern. Pop it twice, give it 30 to 45 seconds, and do it again. If that does not produce, don't pop it; just drag it slowly two or three feet, and let it settle. Wait 20 to 30 seconds and repeat for a few casts. Tight lines! Capt. Brett UpTheLimitFishingadv@Yahoo.com 352 498-6029

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MARCH 2018

NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA/NATURE COAST 7

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t's finally here, forest fishers! For most freshwater anglers, March is the best month of the year. We all have stories of the one that got away, and these memories keep us chasing after redemption. Well, this is it. Get your heavy tackle ready. The bass spawn is on. I'm writing this report in February, and I can already see the first wave of bass beds showing up. During the full moons (March 1st, and March 31st), bass move to the shallows for their

yearly mating ritual. There are a couple ways to search for bedding bass. The first is to sightfish them on calm, sunny days. In clear water, beds are easy to spot. You're basically just looking for a large white circle of sand, amongst the dark sediment of the bottom. If the water is too stained, you'll have to search for them with lures. Weedless swimbaits are great, because you can make long casts easily. Keep it moving until you spook something or get a reaction

strike. When you find one, there will be more close by. Once you've located the bedding area, the hard part is done. A lively shiner will usually draw an instant strike. As far as lures go, most people use creature baits with a bullet weight; to imitate panfish that feed on the eel grass and fry. Cast or pitch past the bed, and drag your lure onto it. Bumping your rod tip will trigger the bite. Big female bass may pick up your lure and carry it off several times, before they actually eat the hook. Be patient and keep trying. Note: Practicing catch-and-release on spawning bass will encourage a healthy population for years to come. Lake George and Rodman Reservoir are famous for trophy bass, but the smaller lakes out here have "lunkers" in them also. "Pond hopping" is a great way to catch lots of fish, if you don't have a boat. Tip: Your phone's map

will help you find new lakes and areas. We've had a great season of speck (crappie) fishing, but it will get harder to target them as we come into spring. Take advantage of our tastiest fish, while you still can. Troll live minnows, close to the bottom, in 10 to 15 foot depth. Lake Bryant is the most dependable for good numbers. There's a lot of water out here now. I'm seeing minnows in areas that used to be bone dry. Low elevation lakes have flooded into the prairies, so a lot of big fish will be caught in shallow water this year. Warmouth, especially love the shallows. A little exploring can lead you to "honey holes" you never knew existed! John Freeze | 352-216-5798 Swampsurf@embarqmail.com

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MARCH 2018

NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA/NATURE COAST 9

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ey Folks, It is safe to say we have made it through the winter here in Florida. The fish are finally moving from the creeks to their spring-time areas. The speckled trout are scattered from the creeks to the flats, and they are hungry. Most of the ones I’ve been catching are in 2 to 4 feet of water on the flats around Cedar Key. Like normal, the B52 Super Sounder corks paired with the Saltwater Assassin Sea Shad tail is working great. The color depends on the water clarity. The incoming tide seems to have the best bite. The redfish are also moving from deep in the creeks, to the creek mouths and the oyster bars around the islands. They are not feeding a whole lot right now because they are not moving too much, so reaction baits might work a little better on the weaker tides. Baits like a spoon, topwater, spinner bait, or swim bait; something fast moving so that they don’t get a chance to see it very long. Sheep head should also show up this next moon around the shallow structures. Gainesville offshore reef and the steel town usually hold spawning fish. A pinch of shrimp or a fiddler crab, fished right on the bottom, seems to work best. If y’all are looking to get in on some great inshore fishing, give me a shout, my info is below. Well folks, I hope y’all

are ready for a great spring. Until next time get outside and enjoy what God has made for us. Capt.Jimbo Keith FishCedarKey.com Saltwater Assassin Fishing Charters 352-535-5083

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CEDAR KEY PADDLING

arch madness is here and you need to get out on the water! Time to spring-clean your boats and tackle boxes and make room for some fresh new shiny toys. What do I mean by toys? Plastics. This month is the start of the great time to practice with different colors and shapes. You will find that today the trout and reds prefer one color and style, and tomorrow they will want something different. Never forget your silver and gold spoons either. They always have their days in the light to shine and can be an absolute go-to lure. Other than that, you just need to make sure you are fishing in the right spots. We just got in some new maps that really show the layout and even have coordinates to some of the more popular fishing holes for multiple different species. What, Where, and When! Let's do this. Make sure you take a kid

fishing. There is so much garbage these days on these kids phones and computers. We have to get them out fishing. If you ever complain about your own grown kids not listening and spending time with you, then take the grandkid or a kid whose parents donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fish. Just take a kid fishing! For all your latest tips and tricks come see us at the shop. Capt. Daniel | Cedar Key Paddling 352-665-1276 Dan_Gator@yahoo.com

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MARCH 2018

NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA/NATURE COAST 11

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arch is a transition month for us. We are finally starting to shed the cold weather and fronts, the fish are coming back out onto the flats from their winter hideouts, and we are getting more water pushing in. I, for one, am happy to see it. This month is defiantly one of the best times of the year to be on the water. Once the water temperature hits around the 72-degree mark, the redfish, snook and trout tend to eat everything they see. The redfish will be pushing out of the creeks, so I will be targeting the creek mouths and surrounding flats. Pay attention to the water clarity. If you are fishing good clean water, then you will want to throw natural color baits; dirty or tannic water, I

will lean more towards chartreuse or brighter colored baits. The top-water bite will explode throughout the month. This technique is by far my favorite way to catch a redfish. My bait-of-choice would either be the Mirrolure She Dog or Top Dog Jr. I will try to match the size of the baitfish the reds are chasing, and throw the matching size bait. The snook will be in the same areas following the same tendencies as the redfish. If you get your hands on some snook, please be careful with them and make sure they are revived properly. The cold weather we have had has killed a good number of them, and we want to take care of the ones that survived and help the population rebound as quickly as possible. I will be chasing trout in the three to four-foot range. A mirrolure mirrodine or zman trout trick will produce very good numbers. Make sure you are around good grass bottom, preferably with a mix of sand potholes mixed in. They are also a blast to catch on top-water, but that will usually tail off when the sun gets up a little higher in the sky. For those of you just pulling your boats out after winter, make sure and do a good walk-through before heading to the water. You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want something simple ruining your day before it ever gets started. If you need your yearly maintenance, go see my friends at AAA Outboards in Crystal river and they will make sure you are ready to hit the water. Until next month, have fun, be safe and take your kids fishing. If you want to come catch some fish with me, give me a call and book your trip today. Capt. Craig Spitznogle www.floridaflatscharterco.com Florida Flats Charter Company (352)445-4978

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TALES FROM THE TUPPERWARE NAVY

FISHING THE NATURE COAST FLATS

ey everyone; the fish are moving again and it is my favorite time of the year. The temperature is on the rise, and the tides are finally getting back to normal. I’m sure a lot of you have let your boat sit during the winter months, and here's a few things to check before hitting the water. Check your trailer tires and trailer connections and run some fresh water through your motor and make sure it fires up. I would also recommend fresh fuel. Once you get on the water, it's a good idea to remember that you

skin probably hasn't seen the sun in a few months, so sun protection is a must. I would recommend checking out G.fin Fishing at www. gfinfishing.com. They have some great gear and they are a Gainesville local company! So anyway, down to business. With the water temperature on the rise, the fish have started positioning at the mouths of the creeks and rivers, especially those that have oyster beds in the area. I have had a lot of redfish activity lately just from fishing those areas. I would recommend using a popping cork with live shrimp, with a leader tied just long enough to be off the bottom. This technique will help you avoid getting snagged on structure. I hope this info helps you out. Stay safe out there and can't wait to see you on the water.

elcome back yak fans, and thank goodness spring is about to begin. I've had more ups and downs fishing this winter than a roller coaster ride. But having said that, I have to think back and realize that I've also had at least one day for the personal record book (that day with the 14 snook) so I guess I'll just say, “It is what it is, and it's been what it's been.” Lately, the bite has been good, though clearly cursed, or would that be the curse of the clear? What I'm rambling about is the super clear water we've had lately. I've literally sat in the middle of 150 plus reds, in about 4 different schools swimming around me, and I couldn't catch a cold! This to say the least, it is FRUSTRATING. There are several reasons, as follows: A. They get spooky in clear shallow waters B. If you can see them, they can see you. C. They keep shutting down due to all the fronts. D. They just want to be a pain in the butt and drive me crazy. I'm going with D. For every problem there is a solution, and the solution is dirt, once you get back into the dirty, cloudy, dark waters, the bite turned on. That means, back in the creek mouths and in the basins at the turns.

Incoming tides seen to be the best, but both ends have been producing some nice fish. This pattern seems to be holding. As I sat working on this month’s tale, my buddy Lew, who was fishing in some of my favorite spots, called me continually with updates. By the time he got to 20 reds, I told him to stop calling me. (You can take this vicarious living thing too far) Anyhow, by the end of the day, he caught 35 reds, while I sat a desk. "There ain't no justice". I'll let him live though, because a good fishing buddy is hard to break in, and he couldn't find one in the slot, all too big (early) and too small, later in the day. His frustration gave me a warm feeling of satisfaction. I mean come on, he's not supposed to catch fish when I'm not there, right? Moving on to the trout bite, as you will hear in the other reports, it is turning on nicely. Your best bet is something under a cork, or on a jig head gulp shrimp. Gold bream little johns, and shrimp are bringing in upper and over-slot fish. That's it for this month. Lew finally stopped calling, and I'm going to load up my yak tomorrow. My turn; Lew has to work, I can't wait to call him. Bruce Butler | "Stumbling Gypsy" (352) 428-5347 Bruce@IndianBayOutfitters.com Web: www.IndianBayOutfitters.com

Capt. Jason Clark In The Slot Fishing | 352-639-3209 Capt.jasonclark@gmail.com

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NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA/NATURE COAST 13

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ello Citrus County anglers; March is here, and it’s trout time. This month is one of the most productive months of the year to tackle that “Gator” trout you’ve been after. Trout are typically not on the grass flats, but on hard bottom such as rocky points, rock and oyster bars, creek mouths and also, “yellow” limestone bottom. Slow suspending baits, soft plastic jerk baits and hard baits such as the MirrO’dine and Unfair Lures Rip-N-Slash are some of the favorites to tie on. Usually the incoming tide is best and when the gulf hits the 64 to 68 degree mark, it’s time to go trout fishing. Spanish mackerel are also roaming around, and they are always a fun fight on light tackle. Anchoring up, chumming, and free lining a live shrimp, is a great way to hook up. Also, looking for surface activity is exciting as well and a silver spoon will keep the rod bent immediately. Be sure to attach some light wire or a long shank hook, or your tackle shop bill will be going up throughout the day. Sheepshead are still on the scene, if one wants to venture a bit offshore. High profile structures are where you want to concentrate your efforts. A live shrimp or piece of fresh shrimp is all that is needed for success. Keep an eye

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out for tripletail too. They are always a possibility, and this month I have caught my largest ones to date. Triple tail lay on the surface and can actually be seen quite easily. A properly presented shrimp doesn’t get refused, and I must say tripletails are one tasty treat. With the warming temperatures and spring tides coming – the red fish will be more accessible. You can always have success with live shrimp, but now is the time to use an artificial. The ever-reliable gold spoon is a spring time favorite for red fish. Put down the trolling motor or push pole your boat, and ease along a rocky shore line. This is saltwater bass fishing as its finest. By doing so, it allows you to cover a lot of water, find new productive shore lines and hopefully, find an area that holds fish, time and time again. Good Fishing! Capt. Dan Clymer | 352.418.2160 www.crystalriver-fishing.com

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MARCH 2018

NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA/NATURE COAST 15

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Warner University Opens Marine Technology Program

STA-SEA’S NATURE COAST ADVENTURES

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ever give up! That’s something I tell myself every day; simple, yet so powerful. You want every day on the water to be productive, but sometimes Mother Nature just doesn’t want to cooperate and there are days out on the water when I feel like She is winning. I feel defeat setting in; nothing is going right. The weather is dreadful, the wind is blowing 25 knots, there’s barely any water, my spots aren’t producing anything except for the notorious ladyfish, I'm getting hung on oyster beds every cast, and just when I decide to throw in the towel, I take a deep breath, sit down and just look. I look at this breathtaking beauty that surrounds me; a sky full of wispy clouds and a mangrove patch teaming with wildlife. I even catch a glimpse of two otters playing. A manatee and her baby cruise by, and off in the distance I spot 10 to 12 porpoises corralling their lunch, if you’ve never seen this sight, the only way to describe it is truly magnificent! I have no right to be in a foul mood. People live their entire lives never seeing this beauty that I see every day. I can't let a bad day of fishing bring me down, not when there is so much around me to be thankful for. Those are the days I call practice days. As with any sport, you have to practice to achieve better results.

I'll be the first to admit that there isn't much in this world that I would rather do than hook into a monster redfish, or fight an upper slot snook, but some days they just aren’t biting. Take those days and let the beauty of your surroundings embrace you. Take it all in and store it in your memory bank, because when you have one of those days that you can’t focus on anything but fishing, because the bite is on fire, you may be missing out on one of Mother Nature’s most spectacular shows. These last few weeks have been a tough bite to say the least, but I have managed to boat a few nice ones. I’m looking forward to warmer spring temperatures that are right around the corner. Speaking of spring, come join me April 21st for the 2nd Annual Ladies Redfish Classic at Blackwater Grill and Bar in Yankeetown. Ladies only fishing tournament. Men you can drive the boats, but only the ladies get to fish. For more information, or to sign up, visit www.riversideinnclassic.com Charter Fishing with Captain Stacy 352-553-3604 Freeinajeep@yahoo.com Facebook: CaptainStacy Horak

16 NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA/NATURE COAST

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ocated right off Highway 27 in Lake Wales, Fla. is a small Christian university designed to fit the needs of its students and community. With hundreds of lakes surrounding the area and abundant marine life, Warner University saw a need to add a vocational side to their list of programs, specializing in marine technology. In 2016 Dr. Hoag, president of Warner University, began work on the perfect plan to fit the bill. There has been a large increase in demand for marine technicians, and Warner is working to provide hard-working young men and women to the industry. A representative at a marina close to campus said, “ . . . There is a huge shortage in the market. Every certified marina/boat dealership in Florida will tell you that. If you have a program for marine mechanics, we would love to talk to your graduating students.” One thing that is special about the program is the two different approaches students can take when getting their certificate. The first is the more traditional route, which will be the certificate only. This is best for students who want to be certified in several different areas surrounding the marine technician field. For those who want this experience as well as their two-year degree, there is a second route, which would be earning their Associate of Applied Science degree in Marine Technology. No matter which route the students choose to take with the program, employers can be ensured the students will come out well prepared to perform routine maintenance as well as effectively and efficiently diagnose mechanical,

electrical and electronic problems. Experiences each student gain while enrolled in the program will take them anywhere from product assembly to hull, from vehicle identification to propulsion, and from fuel and lubrication systems to electrical and electronic systems. We can’t forget to mention their service training and customer care as well! Warner University is extremely excited to kick-off classes in January for their first group of students coming in, and is still accepting applications until the start of classes on January 15. Only a few spots remain, though. “We are really happy to offer this course to everyone. After years of seeing what is going on in the industry, we have assembled an amazing team to not only help students but also address what the dealerships, marinas and OEMs are looking for.” Said Justin Maley, program manager. Located in Central Florida with exclusive access to a 7,000-acre lake right out the back of their classroom, the new Warner University Marine Program can offer much more than most similar programs in the country. Along with the ability to gain an A.S. in Marine Technology, interest in the program has been extremely high. If you or someone you know may be interested in the program or would like to tour our facility, contact admissions director Stacey Robertson at Stacey.Robertson@ warner.edu or by visiting warner. edu. You will find the marine program by going to the academics tab then selecting undergraduate programs.

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NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA/NATURE COAST 17

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inter should be behind us now; so, with Gulf water temps holding in the lo 60's, trout will respond by moving into thick grass flats and begin to harass pinfish again. Shrimp will move up on to the flats around 65 degrees and with this added incentive (and opportunity) to feed, expect fishing to crank up for March. Hard Jerkbaits like Bite-ABait fighters, Bomber Long A's, Smithwick Rogues and Cordell Redfins, will take quality trout in areas of hard bottom adjacent to creek channels and troughs. Look for "color" in the water for best results and expect the bite to be on the last two hours of incoming, and the first hour of the flop. If these floater-divers are too quick, then toss MirrOlure's MirrOdines Catch 2000's or Paul Brown Devils at them and Hang On! Assassin soft plastic will take a LION's share of trout on board

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One-More-Cast this month, as I will rig up Elite Shiners, Sea Shads and 5 inch shads, both bounced on Assassin jigheads and combined with Assassin Spring Lock jigheads with Original Oval Cajun Thunders. If reds are your thing, look for mullet in waters 2 to 3 feet deep in the last hour of the incoming, or the first 2 hours of the outgoing tide. Intruder Weedless spoons in Gold, and Copper are my Goto baits when searching for reds. Once found, slow down with soft jerkbaits. Live Bait, such as a live shrimp or pinfish rigged up under a Back Bay Thunder can be deadly on trout and reds when artificials aren't “bringin' home the bacon”. Having trouble catchin' 'em? Call or Email me Capt. Pat McGriff dba One More Cast 28 years onemorecast@gtcom.net www.onemorecast.net

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anatee Springs State Park will be holding the Fourth Annual SPRING INTO THE SPRINGS event March 10th. SPRING INTO THE SPRINGS provides a day to learn about one of Florida’s first magnitude springs. There will be interpretive wagon rides of the North Trail, a prescribed fire program, a springs question-and-answer program, a springs walk-‘n’-talk, and booths by organizations involved in springs protection. Visitors will leave with a greater understanding of the delicate

balance of a North Florida springs system. The event will begin at 9 am and continue until 4 pm, with a film festival to follow from 6:30 pm until 8:30 pm. The film festival will have guest speakers showing and explaining the complexities of North Florida springs systems. This event is for all ages and is included in the price of the daily admission. All activities have ADA accessible options. Please ask for assistance at the Friends of Manatee Springs Booth.

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ST. AUGUSTINE

e’ve had some rather cold and rainy weather this winter. (At least we haven’t had snow!). It’s been a little tough to pattern the fish with the funky weather patterns, but get out there, because they are still chewin! Redfish, trout, and black drum will be the main focus inshore this month. Look for redfish in shallow flats and creeks that have a darker mud or oyster-laden bottom. On clear days, the sun will warm the water a few degrees in those areas making a great spot for the reds to hang out and warm up a bit. Bait (mullet, minnows, shrimp) will also hold in these "hot" spots and it is common knowledge that the reds will be in the same areas as the bait. Sight-fishing for reds has been a little hit-or-miss this year, again due to the weather. If it warms up quickly this month, the water will start to get murky as the algae starts to bloom. Not to worry you can still “sight” fish. One way to spot schooled up reds is to look for wakes or "muds" caused by the fish moving. I've been locating some big schools this way just about all winter. The latter half of this month marks the start of my favorite time of year to fish for trout. Once the water starts to warm up a bit, the trout will be going crazy. There's nothing like watching that big momma trout come soaring out of the water after your top-water plug. Creek mouths, rip rap, and just about anywhere you have some moving water, are going to be great places to target the specs. Remember to loosen the drag just a little when throwing top-water

plugs for trout. They have somewhat delicate mouths and you don't want to rip the plug away from the fish before they actually get it. Of course, if top-water isn't your thing, a jig and soft plastic will do the trick for the specs as well. My go-to rig-of-choice for trout (and reds too!) is a Slayer Inc. 1/8-ounce Predator jighead with a Slayer Inc. SST paddle tail. Jig, jig, pause, then repeat. The sheepshead bite has been strong all winter and should continue into early spring. Fiddlers and oyster crabs have been the best baits. Just about any structure with barnacles on it has been holding some “heads”, but some of the bigger ones have been coming out of deeper water around the big bridges and jetties. We’ve also been catching quite a few big ones in the creeks around the oyster bars. I think it’s safe to say that sheepshead like cold weather and we’ve had plenty of that this winter. The black drum bite has been pretty good over the last couple of months, and should continue this month. Most of my fish have been in the 3 to 8 pound range, and were caught in the deeper parts of the creeks off the ICW. The best baits have been live/fresh dead shrimp, or a fiddler crab. An hour on either side of low tide has been producing the best bite, especially around the new and full moons.

SURF & PIER

his year was one of the coldest for water temperature is a long time. The fact that our surf temp dropped down to 48 degrees is just crazy. As of midFebruary, it was back up to 54, so here we are in the transition month were spring has sprung. The sun is finally warming our waters again. The magic number for the pompano’s return is 65. However, before that, big whiting and a few black drum can be caught. To catch some yummy whiting for dinner this time of year, I like to downsize to a 15 to 20-pound leader with a #1 or #2 hook tipped with fresh shrimp get the job done. Fresh clams are always good to have along. Sometimes even whiting will get picky. It’s still too cold for local sand fleas but a hungry whiting or black drum will never pass up a sweet juicy piece of fresh clam. Finding a deep wide trough is your key to success. Do not just set up at the closest place to the ramp. When you get to the beach, take your Capt. Tommy Derringer time and look to the north, then to www.InshoreAdventures.net the south. Find the deepest, darkest, 904-377-3734 and widest trough or slough that you can see. What you are looking for is dark water versus bubbles or foamy water. You may have to walk hundreds of yards down the beach but it’s worth it! One particular trip, my two

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amigos and I had already walked 700 yards to a deep spot. However, after fishing for a couple of hours we had very little to show for it. Once the sun rose higher, I spotted an even deeper trough another 200 yards down the beach. It was 200 yards into a head wind in soft sand. My amigos elected not to make the additional march. What happened when I finally made it there was amazing. Almost every cast resulted in a redfish or black drum. Sometimes they were doubles! Even after texting my amigos they still would not make the march to join in on the action. The picture is just some of the results from moving one more time to a better-looking spot. Tight lines!

To set up your own surf fishing adventure or long distance casting lesson please visit www.thesurfangler.com or call Noel at 904-945-0660

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2013 2012 | 13 2/15/18 6:24 PM

New IGFA Observer Training in Mattituck, Long Island

Photo courtesy of Casa Vieja Lodge, Guatemala ver wonder what it would be like to sit on a big, beautiful sportfishing boat and watch a top-notch crew work their magic against monster marlin and schools of sailfish? Can you hear the lines going off? Can you hear yourself screaming “release!” Then you’re ready to become an observer. All observers must take the IGFA Observer Training Course. It takes about four hours, it’s a great way to meet other fishing enthusiast and there’s no test or exam. The International Game Fish Association will conduct an observer training courses in New York on Long Island at Strong’s Water Club and Marina in Mattituck, Long Island, New York on Saturday, May 19. The half-day session teaches observer responsibilities and duties, billfish identification, and IGFA’s International Angling Rules. The class will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., includes a training manual, two DVD’s, a one-year IGFA membership and costs just $150. Take the course, and observe in luxurious resorts in Aruba, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Nicaragua and the U.S. Virgin Islands. To learn more, go to igfto.org. To sign up, go to igfa.org/Educate/ Observer-Training.aspx.

By Doug Haddaway

Photo courtesy of Capt. Mike Weinhoffer

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By Capt. Michael Okruhlik

pring is around the corner, and a lot of fishermen who hang up their gear for the winter can’t wait for the temps to rise. Although the enthusiasm is high, spring can be a difficult season to successfully pattern and consistently catch fish inshore. Most fish are still in transition between the deep mud and the shallow sand and grass flats, which has them spread out through the bays. Add high winds, cool fronts, the small size of the forage, and you have a tougher puzzle to put together than the other three seasons. I have put together a few tips to help you sort though this maze and hopefully land a few more fish this spring. First and foremost, the size of the baitfish is extremely small this time of year. It is not uncommon to find dozens of small glass minnows in the bellies of trout and reds in spring. This makes my first tip very obvious. Downsize your lure presentation if you can. Obviously, this can impact one’s casting abilities, so rigging small lures in tandem can be a plus and increase casting distance. Something else I like to use in the spring is a clear or transparent lure with some glitter or maybe one with a light translucent color. I choose these

because it’s more difficult for the fish to see its actual size and gives the appearance of being smaller than it actually is. I’ve found this to be a productive alternative to downsizing my lure. While choosing a typical size trout and red lure for this application, I look for one with subtle movements. I like either a darting-style bait or a very subtle vibrating paddle lure. Strong, big vibrating tails have their place, but early spring is not one of them. One thing I notice about schools of small baitfish is that when they are displaced they seldom dart deeper before quickly regrouping. Most of their movement is to the side and up. Due to this characteristic, I also like a light lure that has a slow sink rate. I feel this imitates the spring forage movements and increases my strikes. I like a lure you can twitch from side to side that doesn’t sink very fast on the pause. In early spring while the fish are in transition, they will start to congregate on sandy shores with grass. This will be the main cover for the small fry. While employing these techniques and lure choices, concentrate your efforts on broken grass flats with potholes and distinct edges. Early in the season, areas like these near deeper water is where I would start. I hope you find these tactics helpful. As the weather warms and you enjoy the outdoors, don’t forget to take a kid fishing! Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Controlled Descent Lures and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.

Photo courtesy of Controlled Descent Lures

Photo by WIDTTF

ust in case you were unaware, the Gulf cobia limit in Florida state waters of the Gulf of Mexico was reduced from two fish to one fish per person in February. The 33-inch minimum size limit did not change. Also, the recreational vessel limit in Gulf state waters was reduced from six per vessel to two per vessel, per day. These changes were approved by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) at their December meeting. They were based on stakeholder input and concerns from anglers and will further promote sustainable management of this fishery. In addition to the limit changes, a Gulf/Atlantic management boundary was created, defining all state waters north of the Monroe-Collier county line as “Gulf state waters” for purposes of managing cobia. For more information or to view the presentations given at the Commission meeting, visit MyFWC.com/Commission and select “Commission Meetings,” then click on the link below “Next Meeting.”

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By Janice Nieman • Photo by Aladair Ritchie

“F

ish happy my friends.” Those are the words James “Docky” Smith wrote when he autographed his new book, “Through a Guide’s Eye.” Ironically, he wrote them when happiness and fishing were words I couldn’t say in the same breath. That wasn’t always the case. I love everything about bonefishing so passionately that my husband and I decided to buy a house in the Bahamas after fishing five days straight with Docky Smith. It was not a difficult decision. Out on the flats, one is lured into a Zen-like tranquility surrounded by miles and miles of every shade of aqua marine. Gin clear waters

reveal a buffet of ocean life, starfish, conch, stingrays, turtles, crabs… everything but bonefish. To the unpracticed eye, they are “ghosts.” Their silvery, translucent scales seamlessly blend with the white sands below. For Docky, however, spotting them is a “piece of cake.” I have never known anyone with more extraordinary eyesight. When fishing with Docky, one of the most challenging aspects of bonefishing is served up on plate. Poling the flats, the quiet is punctuated by the gentle shifting of the pole and the eerie wail of the mangroves. I am poised with fly rod in hand, and Docky will say, “Okay get ready for me now.” My body tenses with anticipation. “10 o’clock, 30 feet out,” Docky says. “Oh please, let this be a good cast, not one that flops down or gets carried in the wind or worse, ends up in my bun,” I think. I cast, not great but good enough for Docky to say, “Now strip slowly.” Then… his magic words: “Set it.” The fish takes off like a rocket, draining your reel of line, and every thrilling moment vibrates in your hand. That is fishing happy. It doesn’t always transpire like that. Sometimes the fish elude you, sometimes they spook, or sometimes you can’t get your fly in front of them. But I still love it and come back year after year. Last fall I was out with Docky wading. The fish were in range. I cast and cast, but I wasn’t casting! I’d invented a whole other movement that couldn’t have been more wrong. It was such a bad feeling. I stepped aside for my husband, and he pulled out three from the school. I went home with my tail between my legs. I was angry and disgusted. We returned to Long Island six weeks later, and the gloom of my previous pathetic performance still lingered. “Fish happy. Fish happy. Fish happy.” All of a sudden it came back to me. Docky had me casting correctly in less than five minutes. Moments later, I was hooked up with a gorgeous Bahamas bonefish. James “Docky” Smith has over 25 years of bonefish guiding experience and is owner/operator of Bonafide Bonefishing in Long Island, Bahamas, operating out of Stella Maris Resort Club.

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fter a launch at their recent January show, Surf Expo will be expanding the new Bluewater section in the upcoming Sept. 6-8 show in Orlando. Bluewater showcases inshore and offshore apparel and accessory companies. The January show was anchored by outdoor industry company leaders Yeti, Salt Life and Bimini Bay.

“One of the ideas behind Bluewater was to centralize our saltwater apparel and accessory exhibitors to make them easier to find for the buyers who come to the show,” said Surf Expo Show Director Roy Turner. “The response from both attendees and exhibitors was resounding approval.” “It’s a brand new section and it’s perfect for us. It fits our lifestyle,” Jeff Stillwell, president of Salt Life said about the Bluewater section. “Everything we do is connected to the water. Where some people may be just a surf shop or sell surfboards or one particular thing, we’re everything fishing, diving, surfing, so it’s perfect for us. I hope they expand it.” Jon Staton, owner of Hooked Soul said, “This was our fifth year at Surf Expo and our first time in the Bluewater section. Our location and neighbors were great and a success was had by many we could see. We look forward to growing our business in the new section.” Inspired by like-minded watersports brands, the Bluewater section connects to the waterman lifestyle that has always been a part of Surf Expo’s DNA. Featured products ranged from performance and lifestyle apparel, accessories, outerwear, footwear, sportswear, dive and much more. The new section also had a Bluewater lounge sponsored by Hell’s Bay Boatworks and a guest appearance by legendary waterman Flip Pallot. “For us, Surf Expo is an additional branding opportunity; another place for us to see our customers and meet potential customers. With the Bluewater section, it just brings more and more of our type of customers to Surf Expo,” added Chris Peterson, owner/president of Hell’s Bay Boatworks. The Bluewater section for the September show will be centrally located on Surf Expo’s show floor. It will be bordered by the Paddle and Surf sections, offering crossover opportunities for buyers and sellers alike. Surf Expo is a trade-only event. For more information contact Kenneth Andres at Kenneth. Andres@surfexpo.com. More information about Surf Expo can be found at www.surfexpo.com.

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By Capt. Nate Wheeler • Photo by Dan Gray/flickr

“W

hen is the best time to fish?” has to be the most common question I am asked as a captain in the Florida Keys. Any time of the year can be the best time of year depending on what you’re looking for. The constantly changing weather and the different fishing it provides is what makes fishing here very special. All in the same day, you can cast at large fish in inches of water and feed baits to legendary deep-water gamefish. Having an open mind, being properly informed and preparing in advance are the keys to ensuring a fishing trip to the Keys is the adventure of a lifetime. First you have to determine your priorities. Are you looking to catch fish to eat, like tasty grouper? Are you looking to target legendary catchand-release gamefish, such as the mighty tarpon? Is there a particular time of year you want to fish and target the best bite, or is there a particular species to cross off your bucket list? The Keys are completely surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. The two are connected by a complex system of channels that snake between the islands. The inshore scene is dominated by the “slam,” or tarpon, permit and bonefish. Methods for targeting these fish include sight fishing in shallow water or drifting the edges of deep-water channels. Unusually warm weather in winter can create short windows of incredible fishing, but north winds shut these species down. Early bites in late February to March can be red hot. They can be the best bite of the year, especially for trophy fish with a fly rod. However, if your trip occurs during a cold snap, fishing can get real tough. Summer and early fall have the most consistent weather. It is prime time for targeting bonefish and small tarpon. These smaller fish are more aggressive and are a great way to break into the sport.

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If you desire a short run to the open ocean, the Florida Keys are also the place for you. Most fishing occurs within a mile of the reef line, which is only about 7 miles offshore. In addition to catch-andrelease billfish, many tasty species inhabit these waters, such as blackfin tuna, cobia, king mackerel, wahoo and dolphin. The “season” for these fish starts in the fall, when cooling waters push bait into the area. Big-time gamefish can be seen blowing up baits in as little as 15 feet of water, offering a unique sight fishing opportunity. Once the water heats up, you get the spring migration. When Gulf Stream currents push in close to the reef, fish move in to feast as they work toward summer spawning grounds. Whatever fish you crave, the Florida Keys has the trip for you. The best way to plan a trip is to talk to the right guide. Speak directly with a captain who will provide the best answers to your questions. Contact Capt. Nate Wheeler at (305) 394-2177 or capt.natewheeler@aol.com. See his website at www.waypointfishing.net.

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Angler Chuck Hanford and Capt. Alex with a 60-pound roosterfish released on the Harvester in February.

he 2018 season is in full swing in Nosara, Costa Rica. The five boats of the FishingNosara team have already run 225 trips since our season kicked-off in November, and show no signs of slowing down. As usual, the flagship Wanderer has led the charge with great action this season. One of our favorite anglers Leah Merryfield helped the Wanderer ring in the New Year with a great day of action on Jan. 1. Capt. William found a 40-plus-pound dorado lurking offshore, and Miss Merryfield was there to land the monster. Mate Johnny had his work cut out for him to filet this big green beast. With dinner on ice, Mike battled a big sailfish all the way in for the release. Filets for the table and another trophy release for the scrapbook… that’s a perfect day of fishing to kick off 2018. On Jan. 9, Soren and Marianne Dalberg-Pedersen had a big day with

Capt. William, highlighted by a pair of awesome marlin releases. They added a big dorado for the icebox, and all of this happened on just a fivehour, half-day trip! Our big battleship Discoverer also has been delivering big fish and big smiles. Our dear friend Jerome McKown continues to add to his FishingNosara Hall of Fame resume with a great day of action for his group on Feb. 1. After a sweet sailfish release, these Texas anglers scored a nice yellowfin tuna with a baitcaster reel he brought from home. Ryan McPherson joined Capt. Carlos and had the best five-hour trip you can imagine on Jan. 31. First up was a big blue marlin release. The blue water kept producing with an excellent sailfish backed up by a tasty yellowfin tuna. Our newest weapon, the 32-foot Eduardono mega-panga Harvester, has already redefined the potential of panga fishing in Central America. After three full days of fishing, angler Chuck Hanford saved the best for last with a mammoth roosterfish release on his final day of action on Feb. 5. This monster was a legitimate 60 pounds, proven by Captain Alex’s Bogagrip. Great work by the mega-panga to photograph and release this monster. Meanwhile, our smaller pangas, the Explorer and Adventurer, are delivering the best bang-for-your-buck fishing action in all of Central America. The Explorer put on a show for Maurycy Krzastek, of Poland, with a wonderful day of action on Jan. 12. The fish were fired-up as the Explorer released not one but two mighty marlins. This amazing feat was backedup with plenty of dorado, so these boys will be well fed. Great work by Capt. Fico! The Adventurer scored a swarm of permit, snappers and yellowfin tuna on Jan. 6. Want to have ceviche, sushi and filets all in one meal? Capt. David is known for delivering a wide variety of edible delights every time he hits the water. Daily updates on the team’s catches are available at blog.fishingnosara.com and on the major social media platforms.

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his is the time of year when crappie anglers flock to the water. The predictability and seemingly never-ending abundance of these tasty fish make them a springtime tradition with a community feel. No one’s going to fight you for crappie; there are plenty for everyone. Here are a few tips to help you load a cooler this spring. • Fish The Right Areas: This time of year, crappie are either shallow or thinking about moving shallow, depending on where you fish. With warming waters, the spring spawn will find them right up on the banks in water as shallow as 1 ½ feet. Explore backs of the creeks that feed reservoirs or the flats adjacent to creek channels. Crappie use those channels to travel in and out of their spawning areas, so they’ll be stacked up in shallow brush near those slightly deeper areas when they move up. They’ll be holding in those slightly deeper channels before and after the spawn. • Brush, Brush, Brush: The necessity for cover cannot be overstated. Crappie seek out hard bottoms with abundant cover to hide and

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protect their beds. Laydowns on the bank, shallow docks, timber and brush stacked up by currents, angler-placed brush in shallow water, all of it will hold spawning crappie as long as there is firm bottom for them to build their nests and something to conceal them. • Tactics: Male crappie are usually the target when fishing during the spawn. Males are the ones that guard the beds, and while they are in protector mode they are aggressive. They are not necessarily feeding; they are attacking. Minnows under a float are the traditional bait for crappie fishing, and it is a tactic that works any time of year. But during the spawn, minnows can actually hurt your productivity because fishing them out of the livewell and hooking them up is time consuming. If they will take a jig, there is no reason not to use one. Jigs are just more efficient. This time of year, bright and gaudy colors are the way to go. Angry fish don’t need to be enticed into feeding, just getting their attention is often enough to make them strike. Whether you’re vertical jigging thick cover or casting to the banks, move quickly until you find crappie and then slow down to catch all of them that will bite. • Remember: When you find a good spot, mark it on the graph or remember where it is. Crappie know where to go to spawn successfully and comfortably. They will utilize the same areas year after year, and so should you. This holds true on a short-term basis also. Catch a limit one day, and you might think you’ve fished a particular bank out. Don’t count on it. Those good spawning sites reload. New fish will move in to take the place of the ones you took home to the fryer. That spot is worth checking again as early as tomorrow or even this afternoon.

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he first pro event of the 2018 Bassmaster schedule was the Bassmaster Eastern Open in Kissimmee, Fla. I love Florida in winter, and love it even more now. I finished the event in second place, my highest professional finish to date. To notch that result, I had to adapt. Here’s how I did it. In practice and early on day one I was catching fish on a prop bait. The fish were eating it, but I started catching smaller fish as time wore on. I knew big fish were in the area but weren’t willing to hit a topwater. They were buried in the cover, and I needed to go in after them. That meant punching the heavy mats. My arsenal for approaching the thickest Florida cover is simple but vital. I like to

use a MHX FP936 flipping stick with a 1 ½-ounce tungsten weight. I like a 4/0 Mustad 3X Grip Pin Max flipping hook, which helps keep a compact creature bait on the hook shank while penetrating abrasive cover. I pair it with 65-pound Vicious No Fade Braid to a high-speed reel to ensure I can muscle trophy fish from matted cover. A big key to punching heavy cover is the bait. It must have a compact shape to slip through the mats behind that big weight. I worked with X Zone Lures to create a new punching bait that does just that and is a new look for the fish. The Muscle Back Finesse Craw is the result. You can find them on the X Zone website (www.xzonelures.com). I relied on the Okeechobee Craw and Black/Blue Flake colors, which are both Florida staples.

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ho says you can’t have it all? When it comes to wetsuits—whether man or woman, warm or cold water, scuba or freediver—there are many great choices on the market. They are more comfortable, better-fitting, and more fashionable than ever. Pioneers in the dive world had to endure cold temperatures sometimes. Finally, in 1952, a University of California physicist invented the wetsuit. Water conducts heat away from the body about 20 times more efficiently than air, which is why an unprotected individual feels cold even in “warmish” water. The inventor created a foam-like material to cover the body, which reduced the water’s ability to conduct heat away from the body. This, plus the fact that water is warmed by your body and trapped inside the suit, made for a more comfortable experience. Previous materials were very fragile or very rigid. Due to product innovation, wetsuits are more flexible, warm, and come in many different colors—even camouflage patterns. Better-fitting designs and new methods of joining the seams make today’s suits even more waterproof and reduce “flushing,” which is the seeping in of cold water. In the warmest parts of the world, divers may opt for a simple “lycra skin” for protection from jellyfish, coral and sunburns. However, even in the summer, most will still wear at least a 2-mil wetsuit. On the other end of the scale, my very admirable friends in northern California wear two-piece 8-mil wetsuits complemented by thick neoprene boots, gloves and hoods. As an example, someone in the Bahamas might wear a skin for the summer and a 2-mil in the winter. Someone in Florida might own a 3-mil for the summer and a two-piece 5-mil for the winter. A Californian would probably own a two-piece 5-mil for the summer and 8-mil for winter.

The rule of thumb is that you want to wear the thinnest possible wetsuit, but enough to feel comfortable throughout the dive. That’s because you want to maintain maximum Photo by Jose Fernandez flexibility and reduce the amount of lead needed on your weight belt to submerge (wetsuit material is buoyant). The beauty of owning two-piece suits (hooded top and farmer john bottoms) is that you can switch pieces around for the perfect combination—such as wearing a 5-mil bottom with a 3-mil top. Along these lines, it’s also possible to buy a sleeveless vest for more layering options. With just a few basic pieces, many different combinations are available. This is especially handy if traveling and exact conditions are unknown or could change. The following brands are available at your local dive shop: Yazbeck, Mares, Riffe, Omer, Cressi and more. If an off-the-rack suit does not fit, there are several affordable custom manufacturers who will tailor one to your measurements, such as Polosub or Elios. These days, there’s no reason to be uncomfortable in the water. Happy diving! Sheri is a world-record holder, host of Speargun Hunter, and producer of “The Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo” in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Follow “Sheri Daye” and “The Blue Wild” on Facebook and Instagram.

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ichael Clark’s 9.66-pound sheepshead might not be the biggest ever caught, but it’s the heaviest officially recognized sheep ever caught on a fly rod in Louisiana. Clark, of Charleston, S.C., and his father-in-law Craig Pagels booked a couple days with Louisiana Low Tide Charters and Capt. Lucas Bissett last January to fish the marshes of Delacroix. The big sheepshead came on the second afternoon of the trip. The day had dawned clear and calm, but when winds picked up in the afternoon it stirred up the mud bottom they were fishing. Capt. Bissett made the call to move in search of a sand bottom and clear water. It was a good call. Bissett spotted two sheepshead from the poling platform. “He told me to strip out all my line and said ‘four o’clock, four o’clock,’” Clark said. “I threw it out there and dropped it right on the shadow. Then I waited for what seemed like forever. Then I twitched it once and it took the fly.” The fish ate Bissett’s own pattern, a Bissett’s Mud Bug, which has a deer hair head and a baitfish profile. It was caught on a 10-weight Orvis Helios. The Louisiana Outdoor Writers Association (LOWA) recognized it as the fly-caught state record. The all-tackle LOWA record for sheepshead was caught in 1982 by Wayne Desselle. That one weighed 21.25 pounds.

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pring temperatures can swing widely; the morning can start very cold with late season frontal passages, or strong winds with clouds or fog. Even warm days can feel cold due to the water’s ability to cool the near surface layer of air. However, those cold mornings can warm to hot afternoons and back to cold. First, start with a thermal layer that breathes well that can be worn on its own if it warms up. I prefer merino wool for this, but cotton thermals are fine as well if that’s your budget. The merino seems to wick and dry better and is comfortable in a wider range. Next comes a hoodie of some sort, whether that be heavy cotton, fleece or poly, and on your legs either poly sweats or jeans are usually enough for spring. The hoodie will be a welcome addition over your hat of choice at dawn, during high winds, or evening low-light conditions. The final layer should be some sort of windproof and waterproof layer. For wade fishing or rough water conditions, I like a pair of Simms fishing waders and a jacket. I can’t stress enough how important it is to block the wind and water on the top layer. Spring fishing brings variable conditions that require you to layer your clothes so you can adjust through the day. The mornings may be cold, but the mid afternoon leaves you peeling off clothes and sweating. You’ll be ready if you layer. Tobin created TroutSupport.com - Tech Support for inshore fisherman wanting to take it beyond the basics.

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5999 SAVE 50%

MODEL: ASC8003

ITEM 60390 5107 shown

NOW

CANGL_NAT3-NAT34.indd 32 hft_coastalangler_0318_spread_M-REG130507.indd 2-3

COM

GOO

ITEM

ITEM 60497/61899/63095/63096 63098/63097/93888 shown

LIMIT 8 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

SUPER COUPON

Cus

Customer Rating 60 LED SOLAR SECURITY LIGHT 4 PIECE, 1" x 15 FT. RATCHETING TIE DOWNS

• 400 lb. working load

SAVE 46% $1299

ITEM 63057/63056/63094 90984/60405/63150/61524 shown

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

3/8" RUB

18" x 12" MOVER'S DOLLY

• 1000 lb. capacity

Includes 6V, 900 mAh NiCd battery pack.

$29

ITEM 62391 69275 shown

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

SAVE $99

19 289 $2 99 SAVE $279

BEATS

710

99 $229

NOW

Blade sold separately.

179

33 BRIGGS & STRATTON MODEL: 20600 ITEM 63255/63254 shown

MODEL: CT8850PDB, CTB8185, CTC720

8 CHANNEL SURVEILLANCE DVR WITH 4 HD CAMERAS AND MOBILE MONITORING CAPABILITIES NOW

$29

LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

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$29

SUPER COUPON

9999

COMPARE TO $

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130 PIECE TOOL KIT WITH CASE

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LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

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$ 99

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$5 99

COMPARE TO $ 99 SCHUMACHER ELECTRIC MODEL: SE-1250

NOW

COMPARE TO

ITEM 60581 60653 shown

PER PA

• 5 mil thickness

COM

ITEM

Customer Rating 2/10/50 AMP, 12 VOLT

LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

LIFETIME WARRANTY

$79

FT. LBS.

SUPER COUPON

POWDER-FREE NITRILE GLOVES PACK OF 100 12¢ IR

• Ve • Sa • Su •W

17 MU

1200 TORQUE

ITEM 69780 41005 shown

LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

COM SHEL

LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

BATTERY CHARGER/ ENGINE STARTER

SAVE 60%

MODEL: 74410

3999

ITEM 6285

NOW

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REESE $ 99

SAVE 61% $

MODEL: GSP1711

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2599

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15999

$29

Customer Rating

• 1.3 GPM • Adjustable spray nozzle

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

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Customer Rating

GRIZZLY

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ITEM 69474/62861/60626 shown

60" HARDWOOD WORKBENCH 1000 LB. CAPACITY WITH 4 DRAWERS SWING-BACK TRAILER JACK

Tools sold separately.

COMPARE TO

LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

SUPER COUPON

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7" VARIABLE SPEED POLISHER/SANDER

Customer Rating

SUPER COUPON

AIRLESS PAINT SPRAYER KIT

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$19

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LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

SUPER COUPON

Cust

ANY SINGLE ITEM*

MODEL: 887400

Cannot be used with other discounts or prior purchases. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 7/1/18 while supplies last. Limit 1 FREE GIFT per customer per day.

LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

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LIMIT 9 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

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ITEM 62534 69643 shown

LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

2/16/18 12:35 PM

SA 60

Inclu

10 FT. x 20 FT. PORTABLE CAR CANOPY

Customer Rating

PER UPON

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• Weighs 14.3 lbs. • 11-1/8" L x 4-1/2" H

• Air delivery: Customer Rating 5.8 CFM @ 40 PSI, 4.7 CFM NOW @ 90 PSI

$4999 $

ITEM 63054 62858 shown

12999

205

COMPARE TO $ 99 SHELTER LOGIC MODEL: 23522

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179

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ITEM 61840/61297/63476/61258 shown

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

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Customer Rating

298

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1899 N$99 9 33 $

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LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

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ITEM 62281 61637 shown

SAVE $175

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32592 ITEM 64335

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LIMIT 9 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

63585 shown

$1 49

• 15,704 cu. in. of storage Customer Rating • 1200 lb. capacity

99 $239

299 SAVE $169

Blade sold separately.

ITEM 61969 61970 69684 shown

MODEL: SM3055LW

26999 SAVE $30

ITEM 64023 64012 shown

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

SUPER COUPON

Customer Rating

72" x 80" MOVING BLANKET

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COMPARE TO

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MODEL: 77280

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$1999 COMPARE TO

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MODEL: 12865

ITEM 61939/62884/62890 shown

3096

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1689 SAVE 58%

CUSTOM ACCESSORIES MODEL: 59008 ITEM 63109/4077/63152 shown

LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

shown

$ 99

Item 69560 shown

METRIC 69279/69332/69561 LIFETIME WARRANTY

HUSKY

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LIMIT 8 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

3 WATT LED RECHARGEABLE CORDLESS SPOTLIGHT

• 50 ft. lbs. max. torque

Customer Rating

NOW

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MODEL: 70019

ITEM 62775/62776 62973/95061 shown

LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

3/8" AIR RATCHET WRENCH

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1499

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PEAK MODEL: PKC0TV-R ITEM 61960/61777 shown Includes AC/DC adapter and 12 volt DC cigarette lighter plug.

NOW

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MODEL: H4110

Customer Rating COMPARE TO $

ITEM 47214 60631 shown

$5 99

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$ TYPE SAE

NOW

LIMIT 8 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

NOW

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ITEM 69505/62418/66537 shown

ITEM 62340/62546/63104/96289 shown LIMIT 9 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

SUPER COUPON

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$899

LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

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hown

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SUPER COUPON

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19499

COMPARE TO

ITEM 63927

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

NOW

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9995

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Customer Rating

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Case contents

locks 99 notandincluded.

COMPARE TO

ITEM 69091/61454/62803/63635/67847 shown

LIMIT 8 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

SUPER COUPON

PER PON

219 SAVE $69

9 $1299

COMPARE TO

ITEM 63418/63419/62656/67646/62514/63417 shown

UPON

NOW

SAVE 70%

$2999

MODEL: C201H

Customer Rating

$10999 $13999 99

NOW

LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

NOW

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LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

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Model 3800

21 GALLON, 2.5 HP, 125 PSI ULTRA-LIGHT, CRUSH PROOF VERTICAL OIL-LUBE WEATHER-RESISTANT AIR COMPRESSOR LOCKABLE CASE

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Cannot be ide Track g Lot Sale , trailers, , Fischer, ot valid on gh 7/1/18.

SUPER COUPON

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149

MODEL: 74554700

9499 SAVE $74

ITEM 69595/60334/90018 shown

NOW

$74

NOW

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$1 699

Includes one 18V NiCd battery and charger.

COMPARE TO

BLACK & DECKER

5999

MODEL: GC1801

ITEM 69651/62868 62873/68239 shown

4 LIMIT 6 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 7/1/18*

At Harbor Freight Tools, the “Compare to” price means that the specifi ed comparison, which is an item the same or similar function, 850 Stores Nationwide or HarborFreight.com COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM I MARCH 2018 I with NATIONAL 33 was advertised for sale at or above the “Compare to” price by another national retailer in the U.S. within the past 90 days. Prices advertised by others

*Original coupon only. No use on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase or without original receipt. Valid through 7/1/18.

CANGL_NAT3-NAT34.indd 33

may vary by location. No other meaning of “Compare to” should be implied. For more information, go to HarborFreight.com or see store associate.

2/16/18 PM 2/1/18 12:35 3:26 PM

SUZUKI MAKES IT EASY AS

1-2-3

1. Six Years of Protection at no extra charge on all new outboards 25 to 350 HP.

2. SEL

These are limited time offers. See your participating Suzuki Marine dealer for all the details or visit www.suzukimarine.com.

N SO S NG ARD AVI TBO T S I OU TANUZUK INSECT S

Instant Savings of up to $800 on select models. See your dealer for details.

3. Rates as low as 5.99% on new Suzuki outboards (OAC).*

REPOWER FINANCE

Gimme Six Extended Protection promo is applicable to new Suzuki Outboard Motors from 25 to 350 HP in inventory which are sold and delivered to buyer between 01/01/18 and 03/31/18 in accordance with the promotion by a Participating Authorized Suzuki Marine dealer in the continental US and Alaska to a purchasing customer who resides in the continental US or Alaska. Customer should expect to receive an acknowledgement letter and full copy of contract including terms, conditions and wallet card from Suzuki Extended Protection within 90 days of purchase. If an acknowledgement letter is not received in time period stated, contact Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. – Marine Marketing via email: marinepromo@suz.com. The Gimme Six Promotion is available for pleasure use only, and is not redeemable for cash. Instant Savings apply to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki Outboard Motors made between 01/01/18 and 03/31/18. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine.com. Customer and participating Dealer must fill out the appropriate form at time of sale. Instant Savings will be applied against the original dealer invoice (Suzuki will credit Dealer parts account). There are no model substitutions, benefit substitutions, rain checks, or extensions. Suzuki reserves the right to change or cancel these promotions at any time without notice or obligation. * Financing offers available through Synchrony Retail Finance. As low as 5.99% APR financing for 60 months on new and unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors. Subject to credit approval. Not all buyers will qualify. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. $19.99/month per $1,000 financed for 60 months is based on 5.99% APR. Hypothetical figures used in calculation; your actual monthly payment may differ based on financing terms, credit tier qualification, accessories or other factors such as down payment and fees. Offer effective on new, unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors purchased from a participating authorized Suzuki dealer between 01/01/18 and 03/31/18. “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. © 2018 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.

NATIONAL

MARCH 2018

CANGL_NAT3-NAT34.indd 34 SZ_Q1Promo_1PG_WIP.indd 1

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