Coastal Angler Magazine | January 2024 | Greater Orlando Edition by Coastal Angler Magazine

GREATER ORLANDO EDITION

FREE

WINTER'S

@CAMTAMagazine

BIG UGLIES

A Florida Fishing Charter with Coastal Angler Mag!

COOL WEATHER

SEATROUT VOLUME 29 • ISSUE 346

FEBRUARY 14-18 PHOTO COURTESY OF CAPT. JAMIE THRAPPAS YELLOWDAWGFISHING.COM | IG:@YELLOW_DAWG_FISHING

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM

F R A N C H I S E

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

A V A I L A B L E

JANUARY 2024

W O R L D W I D E

Progressive Casualty Insurance Co. & affiliates. No. 1 rating based on 2021 boat market share. Data is sourced from Ratefilings.com.

Never let your traditions fade. Protect your boat. Insure every moment with America’s #1 boat insurer. 1- 800 -PROGRESSIVE / PROGRESSIVE .COM

Get a quote in as little as 4 minutes

THERE ARE STORIES TO TELL B E L O W T H E S U R FA C E

RUN THE WATER™

YAMAHABOATS.COM

©2023 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. Follow instructional materials and obey all laws. Drive responsibly, wearing protective apparel. Always drive within your capabilities, allowing time and distance for maneuvers, and respect others around you. Don’t drink and drive. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT YAMAHABOATS.COM OR CALL 1.800.88.YAMAHA.

Throw Yourself a Bone Full tang stainless steel blade with natural bone handle —now ONLY $79!

he very best hunting knives possess a perfect balance of form and function. They’re carefully constructed from fine materials, but also have that little something extra to connect the owner with nature. EXCLUSIVE If you’re on the hunt for a knife that combines impeccable craftsmanship with a sense of wonder, the $79 Huntsman Blade is the trophy you’re looking for. Stauer® 8x21 The blade is full tang, meaning it doesn’t stop at the handle but Compact extends to the length of the grip for the ultimate in strength. The Binoculars blade is made from 420 surgical steel, famed for its sharpness and its -a $99 valueresistance to corrosion. with purchase of Huntsman Blade The handle is made from genuine natural bone, and features decorative wood spacers and a hand-carved motif of two overlapping feathers— a reminder for you to respect and connect with the natural world. This fusion of substance and style can garner a high price tag out in the marketplace. In fact, we found full tang, stainless steel blades with bone handles in excess of $2,000. Well, that won’t cut it around here. We have mastered the hunt for the best deal, and in turn pass the spoils on to our customers. But we don’t stop there. While What Stauer Clients supplies last, we’ll include a pair of $99 Are Saying About 8x21 power compact binoculars and Our Knives a genuine leather sheath FREE when you purchase the Huntsman Blade.  Your satisfaction is 100% “This knife is beautiful!” guaranteed. Feel the knife in your — J., La Crescent, MN hands, wear it on your hip, inspect the impeccable craftsmanship. If you  don’t feel like we cut you a fair deal, “The feel of this knife send it back within 30 days for a is unbelievable...this complete refund of the item price. is an incredibly fine Limited Reserves. A deal like this instrument.” won’t last long. We have only 1120 — H., Arvada, CO Huntsman Blades for this ad only. BONUS! Call today and Don’t let this beauty slip through your you’ll also receive this fingers. Call today! genuine leather sheath!

FREE

Huntsman Blade $249*

Offer Code Price Only $79 + S&P Save $170

1-800-333-2045 Your Insider Offer Code: HBK221-01 You must use the insider offer code to get our special price.

Stauer

Rating of A+

14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. HBK221-01 Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com

*Discount is only for customers who use the offer code versus the listed original Stauer.com price.

California residents please call 1-800-333-2045 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product. • 12” overall length; 6 1/2” stainless steel full tang blade • Genuine bone handle with brass hand guard & bolsters • Includes genuine leather sheath

Stauer… Afford the Extraordinary.®

WELCOME

By Capt. Quinlyn Haddon

Tuna Town TO

had only been fishing a few years when I wound up taking a job in Venice, Louisiana. I had gotten the lead on a first mate position through a mutual friend of a captain who I had never met before. When I called the captain, I asked when he needed me. He told me, “yesterday.” So I went to the tackle shop, bought my first pair of slickers, and hit the road. The only thing I knew about Venice was that there was no cell phone service and no women. As I drove down the road south of New Orleans, I began to notice ships on both sides of the road simultaneously. I realized I had better call someone to let them know I was heading to a deadzone in the middle of nowhere, filled with lonely, salty men. I arrived at night and located my captain’s houseboat, where I would be staying. I made the jump across to the boat and opened the door without knocking—as I was instructed to do. A dozen men, drinking beer, went silent as they stared at me. I looked around the room at the welcoming party, and the walls that were lined with shelves of alcohol bottles and a deer head decorated with Mardi Gras beads and bras. They offered me a beer and I declined. After the 14-hour drive, I most definitely wanted a beer, however, this did not seem like the time and place to let my guard down. The captain showed me the boat docked out back, my bunk where I would be staying, and told me what time to set my alarm for the charter the following morning. I had no idea what to expect or what I had gotten myself into, but I quickly fell in love with the fishery and a week-long trip turned into a year and a half. The fishermen there were nothing but respectful and treated me like one of the guys. I had only been fishing for two years at the time and had a lot to learn. I spent evenings teaching myself how to tie snell knots and throw a cast net. When the locals would go out fun fishing and bring back coolers with hundreds of trout, they were more than happy to teach me how to fillet fish. The fishermen didn’t cut me any slack for being a woman, which I was grateful for. I worked just as hard as they did, earned respect, and learned everything I needed to become a competent fisherman. I was openly doubted every step of the way, until I was able to learn and prove myself, which I did. But I was told that if I made it to the fall, there was no way that a woman could handle shrimp-boat season. Shrimp-boat season involves pulling behind shrimp boats and then boarding them by jumping from the bow of your boat onto the tires that hang from the stern of the shrimp boat. Then you promptly scurry up before your bow has a chance to crush your feet. You then shovel bycatch into a bag or basket, get it back to your boat, and hopefully get yourself back on the boat before your crew hooks up to a big tuna and abandons you there for the fight. The goal is to not die, break your ankles or get murdered by the shrimp-boat crew in the process. I did make it to the fall, and I did survive shrimp-boat season, and it was some of my favorite fishing I’ve done, to this day. It wasn’t until I left that the ball-busting ceased and I received positive feedback, when a captain called to tell me I did a really great job and that I’d earned a place and should come back for the following season. I am so grateful Tuna Town was a stop on my journey to where I am now. I am indebted to the fishermen there who helped teach me things the right way, without mercy. Capt. Quinlyn Haddon, with Sweet e’nuf charters out of Marathon, Florida Keys, can be reached at (504) 920-6342. See CaptainQuinlyn.com and @captainquinlyn.

TZT

Go on a power trip with

GET BENT. With all this power, you'll find, pinpoint & catch fish like never before.

TZT19F 19" M ulti Touch IPS Display TZT16F 16" Mu lti Touch IPS Dis play

TZT12F 12" Hyb TZT9F 9" Hyb rid Touch IPS rid Touch IPS Display Display

Unleash the power to see fish clearer, deeper & on both sides of your boat, with unprecedented clarity. Built-in Dual Channel1 1kW TruEcho CHIRP™ 1

2kW/3kW TruEcho CHIRP™ "Deep Impact" Power Booster2

TZT9F is a Single-Channel 1kW TruECHO CHIRPTM

DFF3D Multi Beam Sonar See 120° Port-Starboard 2

Hi-Power Radar3 With Bird Detection Mode

Compatible with TZT12F/16F/19F only

Get the whole story at NavNet.com

Premium Fishing & CMOR Charts

Requires external sensor

PROTECTION

MONTHS

RINSE-ON CERAMIC www.gtechniq.com

TIPS FROM A PRO

Rinse On, Rinse Off Ceramic Sealant

TIPS FROM A PRO

THROW UMBRELLA RIGS FOR WINTER BASS

When the bass are feeding up on baitfish in the winter, the natural bait ball presentation with multiple baits swimming together drives these bass absolutely crazy. It can make for a very fun day on the water. Setting up your “rig” is not complicated. Depending on how deep you are looking to fish, use 1/8-ounce jig heads for shallow water (10 feet or less) and ¼-ounce jig heads for anything deeper than 10 feet. Pick TYLER WOOLCOTT out some small 3- to 4-inch natural shad colored boot-tail swimbaits to attach to your jig heads and that’s all there is to it. inter can be a tricky time of year to go fishing, The winter months is typically the time when bass to feed up before but I want to tell you about a bait that might help you put some more fish in the boat. In fact, this lure is so good that they spawn. Whether you see it going on or not, they are eating a lot of bait somewhere on your some tournaments don’t allow body of water. You can throw anglers to use them anymore. this rig basically anywhere, I’m talking about the Alabama and if there are fish around, rig, which some people call they will bite it! I throw it the umbrella rig. around grass, rocks, docks, This device made its debut open water, points and on the bass fishing scene in ditches. 2011 and absolutely dominated the tournament fishing scene Gear for a few years before it was When throwing an A-rig, eventually outlawed by most it can get pretty heavy once professional fishing series for you add all the jig heads and basically being an unfair way swimbaits onto it. You’ll want to catch fish. The rig consists to use a big heavy rod with of a baitfish-style head where some strong line. A 13 Fishing you tie your line with multiple Muse Black 7’6” rod paired metal-wire arms that extend with a Concept A 6:8:1 reel is out where you attach jig heads a good fit. Spool this up with with a swimbaits. Most come 20-pound Seaguar Abraz-X standard with five metal arms line and you are good to go! and five jig heads. Good luck out there! Even though the Alabama rig is outlawed by most pro fishing leagues, that doesn’t mean you can’t use it when you are out fun Tyler Woolcott is a professional tournament angler and guide. fishing or even fishing smaller tournaments. It is a fish-catching machine! Check out his website at www.tylerwoolcottfishing.com.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

JANUARY 2024

NATIONAL 7

A GREAT LAKES FORMULA FOR

By Nick Carter

JUST ONE FISH

obi Pellerito’s goal in a day is just one fish, and with the surge in Great Lakes smallmouth fisheries, there’s a good chance he’ll find what he’s looking for: one giant smallie. “Big smallmouth is my jam,” he said. “It’s not like tournament fishing, where you’re looking for a limit. I’m out there looking for one big fish.” Pellerito theorized that three invasive species are responsible for Great Lakes smallmouth achieving grotesque proportions with weights in the 7- to 8-pound range. European round gobies and rusty crayfish from the Ohio River Basin have become important prey species since their invasion. European Zebra mussels are forage for another smallmouth favorite: perch, and these filter-feeders also create clear water, which is great for visual hunters like bass.

8 NATIONAL

JANUARY 2024

Pellerito bemoaned the destruction these invasives wreak but figures we might as well take advantage. THE FORMULA: The size of the Great Lakes system is incredible. From a home base in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, Pellerito has explored parts of it from Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, downstream through lakes Michigan, St. Clair, Huron, Erie and over to the St. Lawrence River. Over this vast expanse, state fisheries reports tell him where the largest smallmouth are. “Once you’ve picked a fishery, there’s no substitute for time on the water,” he said. “Find the most desirable structure in the lake or in the part of the lake you’re fishing.” Smallmouth can be patterned seasonally. From there, Pellerito fishes long days to eliminate water. He looks for big points and transitions in bottom composition. He seeks out subtle structure like boulders or logs on barren flats. Bait presence is important, whether its gobies or crayfish in the rocks, perch in the grass or balls of suspended baitfish. THE FISHING: When he finds an area he likes, Pellerito covers water quickly with a crankbait. He likes a Megabass Deep-X 300, which dives 12 to 15 feet. “Covering water until you find where the fish are is important, then you slow down,” he said. “The biggest fish tend to be a step off from where the rest of them are.” Big smallmouth hold in “wolf packs” of two or three fish, and this can sometimes lead to days of more than “just one fish.” Recently, Pellerito boated an incredible 35-pound, 9-ounce five fish limit. Find one big fish, and it pays to pick that area apart. For this, Pellerito switches to classic drop shots or tubes. A standard tube crawls through the rocks like a goby or a crayfish. With the drop shot, Pellerito fishes a Megabass 3-inch Hazedong, which looks like a goby. It takes light line to draw strikes in clear water. Pellerito uses 15-foot leaders of 5- to 7-pound fluorocarbon with a main line of 8- to 10-pound braid. He’s experienced tremendous success with these tactics. This season, he boated 39 fish heavier than 6 pounds, 19 heavier than 7 pounds and two heavier than 8 pounds. To see more of Cobi Pellerito’s giant fish, see his Instagram @cobi.pellerito.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

THE ALTERNATIVE TO BUYING A NEW BOAT

Performance Bulletin Available

Suzuki RePower Centers are stationed around the southeast to help with your Suzuki service and repower needs.

59 YEARS OF REPOWER EXPERIENCE!

Mastry Engine Center has received the Suzuki Marine Super Service Award and has been ranked #1 in Suzuki Marine US Sales!

Lou’s Marine, Inc. Gulf Breeze

Custom Marine Service Saunders Yacht Works

Panama City

McKenzie Marine

Gulf Shores

Repower packages designed to best fit your needs and not stretch your budget. Financing available.

St. Augustine

Oyster City Suzuki Apalachicola

On-Site Marine

Oﬀshore Performance Marine

Ruskin

Fort Pierce

Mastry Engine Center Clearwater

All Suzuki repowers come with the new Suzuki 5-year factory warranty.

Innovation Marine Corp. Sarasota

Bayfront Yacht Works Siesta Key

Twin Screws Marine Service

Marina One

Deerfield Beach

Fort Myers

Diversified Yacht Services

Fort Myers Beach

Many of our Suzuki RePower Centers feature Water Accessible Drop Travel Lifts. Request a quote! • suzukirepower.com • 1-800-545-4574

Atlantic Marine Store Hialeah

Boat Services Group Key West

CATCH FRENZIED SPANISH MACKEREL

panish mackerel are a year-round target, but this time of year they love following bluefish schools to clean up injured baitfish left behind. During this time, bluefish and mackerel all tend to school together into a feeding frenzy of terror. I definitely wouldn’t want to get my hand in the way of any of those toothy fish. Spanish mackerel are sometimes confused with baby kingfish and cero mackerel, since they can school all together. However, there are a few ways to differentiate these fish, which is important since they all have different regulations. All these mackerel have yellow spots on their sides, but there are a few differences to look for. Cero mackerel have yellow lines along their lateral line that are combined with the yellow spots. King mackerel tend to have smaller spots that are closely grouped along the lateral line. As for the Spanish mackerel, they have large uncontrolled spots. There is simply no rhyme or reason for their pattern. Another way to identify Spanish mackerel is they usually have a wider girth compared to the other mackerel. A large Spanish mackerel is considered to be around 24 inches and over 5 pounds, while kingfish are typically over 20 pounds and ceros tend to be smaller. Spanish mackerel are typically nearshore fish that hang close to shore in order to feed on bait

schools by pushing them into the breakers. In certain locations, you can find Spanish inside the intracoastal. In specific conditions, if the water becomes too warm, mackerel move deeper to find their preferred 70 degrees. Spanish mackerel are found off the Atlantic coast of the United States and in the Gulf of Mexico. They follow a migration pattern of spending the winter off Florida and then move north to North Carolina in early April and all the way up off the coast of New York by June. There are many ways to target Spanish mackerel. Some use live bait such as sardines, baby pilchards and smaller threadfins. A simple freeline with a short wire leader to a live bait hook and one of these smaller baitfish can be deadly. The wire is not absolutely necessary, but mackerel do have extremely sharp teeth. When mackerel are tailing bluefish schools, they are normally frenzied. They’ll slash at everything that comes their way. I like throwing crappie jigs into the frenzy, and I think any kind of small jig will work. A lot of commercial anglers use popping corks with a spoon tied about 4 feet below. The pop gets their attention, and then the shiny fluttering spoon is too much for them to resist.

FWC PHOTO

By Emily Hanzlik

For larger Spanish mackerel, X-Raps or other diving crankbaits work best since they imitate larger baits. If you’re throwing a lure, don’t use your favorite one. There is a good chance you might lose it. Emily Rose Hanzlik holds 62 IGFA world records in various categories. Find her on social media @emilyhanzlikoutdoors.

• CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF SERVING OUR COMMUNITIES • SAVE • TINY HOMES FOR SALE • CARPORTS • EXCELLENT FINANCING OPTIONS • STORAGE SHEDS • ADU HOMES FOR SALE •

BUILD YOUR DREAM BUILDING IN 2024 WITH THE KEEN’S BUILDINGS 3D DESIGNER.

STEEL BUILDING •

$289.05 /Month

FROM BOAT PORTS TO GARAGES. DESIGN YOUR OWN BUILDING, WITH OUR 3D DESIGNER.

$238.70

$141.24

/Month

30X40X14 CUSTOM METAL GARAGE AS-LOW-AS $328.95/MO

20X25X12 WITH 12X25 LEAN-TO AS-LOW-AS $235.18/MO With Approved Credit. Restrictions May Apply.

With Approved Credit. Restrictions May Apply.

12X30 DOUBLE ROLL-UP DOOR AS-LOW-AS $198.18/MO

$457.00 /Month

$305.40

$45.00 30X40X12 CUSTOM STEEL GARAGE

(2) 12X10 ROLLUP DOORS, (1) WALK-IN DOOR, AND (3) WINDOWS AS-LOW-AS $569.44/MO

7 Locations

SERVING ALL OF FLORIDA AND SOUTH GEORGIA

/Month

20X20 BOAT-PORT TOP SELLER AS-LOW-AS $55.44/MO With Approved Credit. Restrictions May Apply.

LIVE OAK (Corporate Office) P: 386-364-7995

CHIEFLAND P: 352-490-5028

PERRY

LIVE OAK SUPER CENTER P: 386-364-1548

DADE CITY P: 352-583-2410

MASARYKTOWN P: 352-797-2291

620 W. Howard St. (Hwy 90 W.)

211 72nd Trace

$158.40

/Month

2561 N. Young Blvd.

20229 US 301

P: 850-223-1939 2444 South Byron Butler Pwky

24X36X12 METAL BUILDING W/

(2) 12X36X10 LEAN-TO’S + UTILITY STORAGE AS-LOW-AS $365.18/MO WAYCROSS

P: 850-223-1939 2203 Memorial Drive Waycross, GA 31501

SCAN THE QR CODE TO VIEW OUR PRODUCTS

10X20 ROBIN

AS-LOW-AS $189.18/MO

KEENSBUILDINGS.COM View our inventory online.

568 S. Broad St.

• END OF SEASON SALE • SAVE • TINY HOMES FOR SALE • SALE • $0 DOWN FINANCING OPTIONS • EXCELLENT FINANCING OPTIONS • FREE DELIVERY AND FREE SETUP • APPLY NOW •

2 FLORIDA

JANUARY 2024

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

STEEL BUILDING •

Repower Center ✓ Large Inventory Cal lU ✓ Financing Available s ✓ Guide & Gov't Discounts ✓ Factory Trained Technicians ✓ Custom Fabrica�on Solu�ons ✓ Service and Maintenance RELIABILITY IS A FAMILTY TRADITION MEET THE NEXT GENERATION

advanced marine

Advanced Marine Services 1322 Carolina Ave Saint Cloud, FL 34769

407-498-5142 866-768-2628 advancedmarine.com

BOAT INSURANCE SINKING YOU? 6913 Norton Ave. West Palm Beach, FL 334054

Hurricane Season (561) 758-8758 Phone orders Can Be shiPPed

Be prepared with extra ropes, chains, anchors, shackles, and more!

SAVE

50%Insurance

up to

on Boat

GET THE

LOWEST RATES!

BOATS & $37,000 $75,000 JETSKI From: $264/yr $474/yr

Custom Spliced Dock Lines & Anchor Rodes

$100,000 $250,000 $500,000 $586/yr $2,975/yr $5,985/yr

GET A QUOTE! (888) 977-4500 (954) 785-5000

BoatInsuranceFlorida.com Bradley Insurance Group

Covering Boaters throughout the South Since 1988

Your #1 Source for Boat Insurance COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

JANUARY 2024

FLORIDA 3

By Astrid deGruchy

No Telling What You’ll Catch

ON THE PATCH

atch reef fishing is the epitome of, “You never know what you’re going to catch.” These underwater gems are filled with all sorts of fish, and it makes them fun and exciting places to be an angler. Patch reefs are small coral formations found in the shallower parts of the water. They were named for the patchy appearance when viewed from the surface and form wherever hard bottom exists in 10 to 25 feet of water. The rocky bottom, combined with ledges, coral heads and other growth provides the structure fish love. Many of these areas are well-known here in the Keys, but if you’re up for some exploration you can find less-pressured patch reef especially when the water is clear and visibility is good. Just keep an eye out for rocky or live bottom. These areas are usually not too far from shore, so they’re easy to reach and perfect for angling action. All sorts of fish congregate around these patches. The variety includes mutton snapper, mangrove snapper, yellowtail snapper, lane snapper, hogfish, black grouper, red grouper, gag grouper, porgy, cero mackerel, yellowjack and barracuda. We fish a lighter setup on the patch reefs, and this makes for a blast. Our go-to is a PENN Authority 4500 reel with the PENN Carnage III rod. Live bait like pilchards or shrimp work like a charm. If catching live bait is a problem for you, just stop at a local tackle shop and grab some live shrimp, pinfish, or even some frozen ballyhoo. Keep it simple, and tie on a knocker rig or jig head. Anchoring the boat in the right position to present baits around the reef is an important part of this style of fishing. Dropping bait on the sandy areas near the reef allows you to fish the bottom without getting hung up. Chum can be a good idea, but don’t be so quick to put out the chum as soon as you get lined up. I recommend breaking it out only if the fishing is tough. Chum can attract some of the “trash fish” like blue runners, jacks and sharks. Also, make sure you’re up to date with the rules and regulations. There are so many species you might catch, and some of those species might be out of season. Patch reef fishing is a blast. It’s a mix of stunning views and tons of action. If you want to experience this, the cooler months are the best for this type of fishing. That’s when some better-quality fish move into the shallower reefs.

Whe Cen and rem add sing

Visit www.beansportfishing.com to book a charter and experience epic patch reef fishing in the Sportfishing Capital of the World.

4 FLORIDA

JANUARY 2024

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

Water Acce

One if by Land . . . Two if by Sea With Mastry Suzuki RePower, It’s Your Choice

Join The Revolution Whether considering repowering your trailer boat or your offshore beast, there is a Mastry Suzuki RePower Center that can serve your repower dreams. Mastry Suzuki RePower centers are the best in the business and have the experience, technical know-how and boating passion to make your repower project a remarkable success. With total boat systems capabilities your local Mastry Suzuki RePower Center can address all your upgrade aspirations. Essentially transforming your boat into a totally new boat at one single location. With 15 Locations Across the Southeast There is a Mastry Suzuki RePower Center Near You.

REPOWER THE ALTERNATIVE TO BUYING A NEW BOAT *Get with the Program!

When you purchase a new Suzuki outboard from an authorized Mastry RePower Center you qualify to become a member of the Mastry Suzuki Owner’s Edge. Owners receive an identiﬁcation card that provides them with important information about their Suzuki outboard motor as well as a passport to additional beneﬁts during ownership. Members enjoy a detailed engine maintenance schedule, Mastry Suzuki RePower Trade Program and special pricing from Mastry Suzuki Partners.

suzukirepower.com | 1-800-545-4574 Water Access CA 231209.indd 1

12/9/23 12:24 PM

No Profile Boat Lift

Four Piling Boat Lift

Eq Su the on

Durable boat lifts expertly designed with Florida in mind. ShoreStation hydraulic boat lifts are a reliable choice for coastal residents and boating enthusiasts alike. Their strong construction, made with corrosion-resistant materials, allows them to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including sun, storms, and saltwater damage. ShoreStation provides a steadfast solution for protecting waterfront investments, offering peace of mind to owners in the Sunshine State.

DISCOVER THE SHORESTATION ADVANTAGE

Q Se

Ma qu inn lift saf tod hy ne an wa con an les

ShoreScreen

REVOLUTION™ Canopy

No Piling Required Freestanding Boat Lift

REVOLUTION™ Series Canopy Cover

Solar Battery Charging System

Equipped with exceptional weather resistant fabric and breathable SunTex 80 woven mesh ends for maximum protection and durability, the REVOLUTION™ Series Canopy is the most innovative canopy on the market.

Never miss another moment on the water. Power your lift with clean, free solar power. Our speedy 20 watt charger features solar regulator drainage protection, saving your battery from permanent damage caused by overcharging.

Quickly Secures Boat Made from the highest quality materials, our innovative hydraulic boat lift is one of the fastest and safest lifts on the market today. When you have a hydraulic lift, there’s no need to worry about wind and waves getting in your way. This lift will give you confidence to safely land and secure your boat in less-than-ideal conditions.

& transform your waterfront! 772.247.4774 shorestation.com

SLIP CORKS AREN’T JUST FOR LIVE BAIT

Tim Barefoot

here was time in my life when I was fanatical about live bait, and a lot of the fishing I did was under a sliding cork. Well, that ship has sailed, at least the live bait part. I still fish under a sliding cork, but I now fish artificial lures under the cork for several reasons, only one of which is the evolution of soft plastic baits. Here are a few arguments for fishing artificial: 1) There’s no need to catch and store live bait. 2) My entire tackle box is now small and light enough to fit in a backpack for travel. 3) Soft Plastics are versatile in terms of presentation, and they’re effective. 4) Artificials can be cast farther and more accurately. 5) You can be ready to fish at a moment’s notice anywhere, under almost any conditions. These advantages add up to the sum of my new fishing style under a sliding or popping cork. I cherish my two- or three-hour mini vacations after work, wherever I am while traveling. I travel quite a bit and can bail out of the truck and fish for whatever is there. I’ve grown fond of fishing under and around bridges for several species, and the ease and effectiveness of this style of fishing is easy to love. In addition to fishing just a single lure under a cork—or without a cork in deeper, faster water—I’ve started fishing a tandem tackle. The bottom bait is the jig head for the weight, and the second bait has no weight and just trails out behind the jig. Some days, it’s all bites on the jig; other days, it’s a third or more of the bites on the weightless trailer. This suspended bait and trailer under a cork is not only effective, but it keeps you from staying hung up. Once I figure out how deep the water is, it’s easy to adjust the depth. I typically keep one rod set up for 6 feet deep as a starting point. If I see the cork laying over, it means the jig is sitting on the bottom. I’ll shallow it up a bit to where the jig is just off the bottom and makes a clean drift. If the water is deeper, I’ll adjust it deeper. The end goal is to keep the jig a foot or two off the bottom and allow a natural drift. I like to fish a pair of DOA Shrimp on this tackle in saltwater, and this same tactic is deadly in freshwater with Zoom Flukes or Super Flukes for smallmouth, largemouth and striped bass. The other bait I love for this style of fishing is Gulp! baits. For more detailed videos of the tandem tackle and how to tie it, and the construction of my sliding cork set up, visit my Youtube channel and/or the website. For more from Tim Barefoot, visit barefootcatsandtackle.com.

•A

•SUP •ENH •99%

8 FLORIDA

JANUARY 2024

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

*LIF 16 BREVARD

JANUARY SUPER

SALE!

JANUARY 12, 13 & 14, 2024

New & Preowned Boats at Blowout Prices! Boats from 15 of Central Florida’s Best Dealers Representing Over 70 Manufacturers

Meet Comedy Team The Longshoreman

Boat Show Hours

Friday & Saturday 10am to 5pm Sunday 10am to 4pm

Fishing Boats Pontoon Boats Ski Boats Bowriders Cruisers Luxury Economical

With New Boats Arriving Just In Time for the Show! 1801 W International Speedway Blvd Daytona International Speedway - Turn One Plaza

FOR MORE INFO

WWW.DAYTONABOATSHOW.COM

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

JANUARY 2024

BREVARD 1

✔ ✔

7PM

The b ing e Hook Tourn 13, 2 regist End 206 S corne day e get y 6:00 expec gered There ter an eveni

Amer readi Johns Mulle strea River Shad hatch

✔ NEW HIGH AND DRY STORAGE ✔WET SLIPS ✔ SERVICE DEPARTMENT ✔ SHIPS STORE ✔ ICE/BEER/WINE ✔ BAIT/TACKLE ✔ ETHANOL FREE FUEL

531 N. PALMETTO AVE., SANFORD, FL (407) 322-2910 DOWNTOWNSANFORDMARINA.COM

The biggest Central Florida fishing event in January - FREE – Hook’d on Lake Monroe Fishing Tournament to be held January 13, 2024. Mandatory angler registration is at Wild Wild West End Saloon and Honkeytonk, 206 Sanford Ave. just around the corner from Celery City on Friday evening January 12. Friday, get your boat number starting at 6:00 pm. With over 150 boats expected, weigh-in will be staggered based on boat numbers. Therefore, all anglers must register and get a boat number Friday evening at West End Saloon. American shad can be found readily in January in the south St Johns River. Look for them from Mullet Lake Park all the way upstream into the Econlockhatchee River and Puzzle Lake (aka Shad Alley). Match the minnow hatch – wild minnows are small.

Keep your baits small. Try a 1/8 oz. jighead with a 2” curly tail or 2” paddle tail soft plastic. Longline troll a little faster than you would for specks, about 1.8 – 2.8 mph with plenty of line out so the lure is near the bottom. The by catch might just be a large sunshine bass! Crappie – January will see the river bends swell with staging females. Full and new moons will see spawning activity – specks bed in colonies. Males prep beds in shallow while larger females will stage in 6-10 feet of water where drop offs are close to the shore of the lake. Minnow tipped jigs tied 12 inches below a ¾ ounce egg sinker fished a foot above the bottom is sure to catch a stringer full. Longline trolling improves when tipping with a live Missouri minnow. Minnows under a cork are the most popular way to catch crappie. 8-pound test mono is perfect. Learn how to use a slip bobber and set your bait at different depths until the fish show you how deep they are biting that day.

Happy New Year to our loyal readers! Start the year off right and go out and catch some fish. The bass are finally schooling due to the recent cooler weather and are chasing shad and fatting up for the spawn during the January and February full and new moon phases. The bass bite in the Harris Chain of Lakes has been a little slow due to the recent cold fronts moving in and out, but that should be changing soon with the recent warming trend and moon phases during January. Try chatter baits, bright orange or chrome/ blue Rattle Traps, June bug or black with blue tail trick worms, Senko’s or speed worms worked slowly along the deeper Kissimmee grass close to deeper water or ledges. The bigger fish will be staging close to mouth of canals, creeks, or the Dead River in the surrounding cover. Areas with several different types of cover such as Kissimmee grass, reeds, cattails, eel grass, hydrilla, and lily pads in

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM

the same area will hold the bigger and better sized fish. Slow trolling a large live wild shiner under a cork or balloon will always pay off. Lake Harris, Lake Eustis and theirs canals as well as Lake Dora and the Apopka Canal will be the best places to look and hunt for the first wave of bedding bass. Lakeside Bait and Tackle in Tavares near the Buzzard Beach boat ramp is selling a ton of minnows and says that the crappie is really starting to show up both in numbers and size on Lake Dora, in Lake Eustis and Lake Griffin. Anglers are catching them on mylar jigs, Road Runners, and minnow rigs. Look for them to move up in the shallows on the next new and full moon phases in later January and February. If you are going to fish for crappie, be sure to get registered and enter your crappie in the 14th Annual Shad & Crappie Derby. Owens Fishing and Marine, Lakeside Bait and Tackle and Nobles Marine are sign-up locations - it only takes one fish to win! Take a kid fishing with you and start the New Year off right, good luck.a

JANUARY 2024

ORLANDO

One Day Shad & Crappie Rally Tourney January 8th

FREE TO ENTER

Presented by

FREE TO ENTER OVERALL DIVISION

KIDS DIVISION

AnnualSHAD Shad & & Crappie Fishing DerbyDERBY 13TH15th ANNUAL CRAPPIE FISHING November 1, 2023 thru February 29, 2024

Special THANKS to these Event Sponsors

OVER $5,000.00 in PRIZES

Visit coastalanglermag.com/orlando/shad-crappie-derby Presenting Sponsor:

Visit coastalanglermag.com/orlando/shad-crappie-derby 4

ORLANDO

JANUARY 2024

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

FEBRUARY 2022

ORLANDO 5

www.NoblesMarine.com Family Owned & Operated for 45 Years

Largest Ship Store in Lake & Sumter Counties

Leesburg 352787-5792 437 N Palmetto St. Leesburg

Crystal River 352795-1119 1931 NW Hwy 19 Crystal River ✔ Fully Fenced & Gated ✔ Lighted with Video Surveillance

✔ Conveniently Located near Baldwin Park & Winter Park

PERSONAL BOAT RV AND MORE Family Owned & Operated for 50 Years

UP TO 50’ COVERED SPACES (POWER INCLUDED) AHSTORAGE.CO • (407) 678-0507 • 2500 N FORSYTH RD • ORLANDO COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM

JANUARY 2024

ORLANDO

Seminole Junior Anglers Serving Your Trailer Needs For Over 35 Years

Hello fellow anglers, families, and friends. SJA hopes everyone had a great holiday season and wishes Happy New Year to all!

SERVICE

Preventative Maintenance • Complete Rebuilds All Trailer Types Serviced

PARTS

Marine Grade Stainless Steel Parts Custom Axles • Accessories Large Parts Inventory For All Trailer Types.

SALES

We Have Aluminum Boat, Pontoon, PWC Trailers Available as well as Utility, Equipment, Dump And Enclosed Trailers.

150 PLUS TRAILERS IN STOCK READY FOR DELIVERY!

SALES • PARTS • SERVICE

407-892-1100

WWW.ATTRAILERCENTER.COM

The Seminole Junior Anglers just finished fishing their 4th tournament of the season on Lake Okeechobee at the beginning of December. As always, the “Big O” produced some bigger bags. Saturday 12/9 was a little struggle as the weather was trying to decide if it was going to be hot or cold and rain or not. The fish were not sure where they wanted to be, and it was a struggle to find them. Our best finishing team was Hayden Wolf and Landon Myers (both freshman). They were able to put 5 in the boat with 13.69 lbs., placing 21st for the day out of about 125 boats, the best for our SJA teams on Saturday. Sunday 12/10 the weather started to warm up and stabilize then the fish started biting. The first team to land a big one was Brady Biles and Patrick Bartolotta landing a solid 7.5lbs fish earlier in the day ending up in 5th place with 18.73 lbs. and our best finish for the day! Coach Troy Bennett had the pleasure of filming Ben Brackett and James Crews team land an 8.6 lb. monster, finishing 13th with 15.95lbs. Lastly, team Nathan Bennett and Carter Burdette landed a 5.1 lb. fish with a total weight of 16.23 lbs. finishing 12th for the day. It was truly a great day on the water bringing in fat bags for the SJA Teams. The Florida Bass Nation Fall trail came to an end in Okeechobee and we are proud of teams Bartolotta/Biles and Crews/Brackett teams punching their ticket to the State tournament this coming summer in Bainbridge, GA on Lake Seminole! Come Fish with the SJA club! We are holding our annual fundraiser tournament February 24th on Lake Monroe with weigh-in starting at 2:30 pm hosted by Boat Tree Marina, Sanford. There will be a guaranteed $1500 1st place payout (35 boats minimum) along with 2nd and 3rd place payout and Big Fish. There will also be lots of giveaways, raffles, plus great prizes, and food. $125 per boat entry and all the proceeds go towards the club’s expenses for our qualifying teams that are headed to the Nationals in August. Please mark it on your calendar and come support these young anglers. Email seminolejunioranglers@gmail.com to register and lock in your boat launch number. We cannot do this without sponsors! Coastal Angler Magazine Orlando, Avid Sportswear, Mudhole Custom Tackle, Accurate Fence, Grove Scientific and Engineering Co, Mullinax Ford, Dave’s Hot Chicken, and Oakley - If you have a young angler, and they would like to fish with our club, please contact Troy Bennett 321303-0650 for info about joining us for next season.

4820 E. IRLO BRONSON MEMORIAL HWY ST. CLOUD, FL 34771

“Spreading Awareness and Acceptance to Au3sm through the Sport of Fishing”

www.au%smanglers.org

ORLANDO

JANUARY 2024

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM

10TH ANNUAL ST. JOHN’S RIVER BASH Saturday, February 24, 2024 COST:

E IS

1ST PLAC

5:30 am:

125 per Team (Includes Big Bass Award ) Cash accepted at ramp Checks made payable to Seminole Junior Anglers $

Launch site / Blast-off time Lake Monroe, ramp TBA

2:30 pm: Weigh-in time at

TEED* GUARAN

3:30 pm: Raffle drawings, trophy, and check presentations

s minimum

*35 boat

To register email: seminolejunioranglers@gmail.com Boat launch will be assigned by registration dates

RAFFLE PRIZES

LUNCH MENU Dave's Hot Chicken, Drinks, Cookies, Chips 10 Donation

• • • • •

Coolers Gift Cards Rods Reels Oakley Sunglasses

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

• • • • •

Boat Cleaning Kits Apparel Tackle Gift Baskets Gift Certificates And so much more...

QUESTIONS: Troy Bennett at (321) 303.0650 or seminolejunioranglers@gmail.com

Visit SeminoleJuniorAnglers.org for this flyer. We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit. All proceeds go towards our National and State Tournament expenses for 2024. SEMINOLE JUNIOR ANGLERS COMMUNITY PARTNERS AND SPONSORS

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM

JANUARY 2024

ORLANDO

Boat Dealers New & Consignment Sales Boat Dealers New & Consignment

1 - Astor Marine (352) 759-3655 24535 FL-40, Astor, FL 32102 Astor Marine (352) 759-3655 www.astormarine.com 1 24535 FL-40, Astor FL www.astormarine.com 2 - Nobles Marine (352) 787-5792

437 N Palmetto St, Leesburg, FL 34748 or 787-5792 1931 N. Nobles Hwy 19,Marine Crystal(352) River 437 N Palmetto St., Leesburg, FL www.noblesmarine.com 2

1931 N. Hwy 19, Crystal River, FL www.noblesmarine.com 3 - Craig Catamaran (407) 290-8778 4333 Silver Star Rd. #100 Catamaran (407) 290-8778 Orlando,Craig FL 32808 3 4333 Silver Star Rd. $100 Orlando, FL 4 - Triangle Marine (352) 343-6146 11415 US-441, Tavares, FL 32778 Triangle Marine (352) 343-6146 www.trianglemarinecenter.biz 4 11415 US-441, Tavares, FL 30 - Aamco East Orlando (407) 277-3311 www.trianglemarinecenter.biz 6304 E. Colonial Dr. Orlando FL 32807 Full Service Mechanics Aamco East Orlando (407) 277-3311 30 6304 E. Colonial Dr., Orlando, FL 25 - Central Florida Marine (407) 647-6262 Full Service Mechanics 1021 N Orlando Ave, Maitland, FL 32751 www.centralfloridamarine.com Central Florida Marine (407) 647-6262 25 1021 N. Orlando Ave., Maitland, FL 38 - Orlando Boat Sales (407) 253-7111 www.centralfloridamarine.com 3165 N John Young Pkwy, Orlando, FL 32804 www.orlandoboatsales.com Orlando Boat Sales (407) 253-7111 3165 B. John Young Pkwy., Orlando, FL 24 -38 Boat Max USA (321) 866-0306 www.orlandoboatsales.com 9700 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando FL 32817 www.boatmaxusa.com Boat Max USA (321) 866-0306 E. Colonial Dr., Orlando, FL 24 9700 Truck 46 - Gibson World (407) 321-0660 www.boatmaxusa.com 3455 S. Orlando Dr. Sanford, FL 32773 www.gibsontruckworld.com Gibson Truck World (407) 321-0660 3455 S. Orlando Sanford, FL 14 -46 Boat Tree MarinaDr., (407) 322-1610 www.gibsontruckworld.com 4370 Carraway Pl, Sanford, FL 32771 www.boattree.com Boat Tree Marina (407) 322-1610 14 4370Carraway Pl., Sanford, FL 60 - Next Level Inc. “Florida Marine Customs” (407) 704-5676 • 87 W. Michigan St. Orlando, FL 32806 Next Level Inc. “Florida Marine Customs” info@floridamarinecustoms.com (407) 704-5676 60 87improvement W. Michigan St., Orlando FL & Repair Boat / Service info@floridamarinecustoms.com Centers / Replacement Parts

36 - All Boat American Marine (407) 855-9988 Improvement / Service & Repair 7024 S Orange Ave, Orlando FL 32809 Centers / Replacement Parts www.allamericanmarineorlando.com

All America Marine (407) 855-9988 35 -36 All 7024 Star Marine 423-9953FL S. Orange(407) Ave., Orlando,

28 W Jersey St, Orlando, FL 32806 www.manta.com Advanced Marine Services (407) 498-5142

1322 CarolinaMarina Ave., St. (407) Cloud,295-0117 FL 29 -35 Lake Fairview advancedmarine.co 4503 N Orange Blossom Trail,

6 - Sea Tow of Central Florida Lakes (877) Sea 800-1492 Tow of Central Florida Lakes 12307(877) Drive , Grand Island, FL 32735 800-1492 6 Wedgefield 12307 Wedgefield Grand (352) Island,735-5560 FL 9 - Instant InsuranceDr., Agency 25833 State Road 46, Sorrento, FL 32776 Instant Insurance Agency (352) 735-5560 www.instantinsuranceagency.com

9 25833 State Road 46, Sorrento, FL www.instantinsuranceagency.com

2133 Component Loop, Suite 1031, Oveido, 32765 American Tackle Co. (800) 516-1750 www.americantackle.us

15 2133 Component Loop, Suite 1031, Oviedo, FL www.americantackle.us 5 - Lakeside Bait & Tackle (352) 742-3336 1000 W Burleigh Blvd, Tavares, FL 32778

Lakeside Bait & Tackle (352) 742-3336 1000 W.Fishing Burleigh&Blvd., Taveres, FL 357-3030 7 5- Owens Marine (352) 935 N Bay St, Eustis, FL 32726

Owens Fishing & Marine (352) 357-3030 117- Highbanks Marina & Camp Resort 935 N. Bay St., Eustis, FL

Orlando Outfitters Outfitters (407) 56 - Orlando (407)896-8220 896-8220 2814 Dr., Orlando, FLFL 32803 2814 Corrine Dr., Orlando, 56 Corrine www.orlandooutfitters.com www.orlandooutfitters.com

Home HomeImprovement ImprovementContractors Contractors & & Service Providers Service Providers 26 - DWR LLC.(407) (407) 293-3717 DWR Plumbing Plumbing LLC. 293-3717 26 All 6344 American Blvd, Orlando, FLFL32810 6344 All American Blvd., Orlando,

28 - Millennium (407)420-2001 420-2001 MillenniumElectric Electric (407) 4340 Edgewater Dr, Orlando, FL 32804 28 4340 Edgewater Dr., Orlando, FL www.millennium-electric.com

23 Aulin Ave., Orlando, FL

www.talonmarineservices.com 20 - Team Marine Services (407) 260-8326

1350 28th Street, Orlando FL 32805 www.teammarineservices.com Team Marine Services (407) 260-8236 1350

20 28th St., Orlando, FL 19 - Ahoy Marine (407) 323-8373 www.teammarineservices.com

511 E 25th St, Sanford, FL 32771 www.superpages.com Ahoy Marine (407) 323-8373

19 311 E. 25th St., Sanford, FL www.superpages.com

www.thomaslumber.com 5050 - Campbell - Campbell Renovations Renovations Inc. Inc. (407) (407) 947-0016 947-0016 285 285 Campbell Campbell Ranch Ranch Run, Run, Geneva, Geneva, FLFL 32732 32732 Martin Tree Service, Inc. (407) 359-1119 www.campbellrenovationsinc.com www.campbellrenovationsinc.com

39 1215 Bob White Trail, Chuluota, FL www.martintreeservice.com 5151 - Vapor - Vapor and and Company Company (407) (407) 878-7397 878-7397

3621 3621 S. S. Orlando Orlando Dr., Dr., Sanford, Sanford, FLFL 32773 32773 Campbell Renovations SRSR 436 436 Altamonte Altamonte Springs Springs Inc. (407) 947-0015 East East 5050 Orlando OrlandoRanch Run, Geneva, FL 285 Campbell 50SRSR www.vaporandco.com www.vaporandco.com www.campbellrenovationsinc.com

Sports Outdoors Fish on Fire (407) 812-6881 LeeAcademy Vista 6640 Eagle&Watch Drive Orlando, FL East Colonial 11955Ridge E. Colonial Dr., Orlando 7937Daetwyler Dr., Orlando, FL678-2107 39 Millenia 3557 Gardens Way Orlando, FL 3333 - Boston’s - Boston’s Fish Fish House House (407) (407) 678-2107 LeeMary Vista3641 6640Lake EagleEmaa Watch Dr., Orlando www.fishonfireorlando.com 43Lake Road Lake Mary FL Aloma Aloma Square Square Shopping Shopping Center, Center, 6860 6860 Aloma Aloma Ave, Ave, Millenia 3557 Gardens Ridge Way, Orlando Winter Winter Park, Park, FLFL 32792 32792 Lake Mary 3641 Lake Emma Road, Lake Mary High Tide Harry’s (407) 273-4422 www.bostonsfishhouse.com www.bostonsfishhouse.com 40 4645 S. Semoran Blvd., Orlando, FL 45 - Wojo’s Bait & Tackle (407) 891-1003 Wojo’s Bait 4245 & Tackle www.hightideharrys.com - St. - St. Johns Johns River River Steak Steak && Seafood Seafood Oak Center, 13th(407) St, St891-1003 Cloud, FL 34769 1717 45 Park Oak Park Center, 4245 13th St., St. Cloud, FL (407) (407) 878-0980 878-0980 Boston’s Fish House (407) 678-2107 48 - Mud Hole Custom Tackle, Inc. 550 550 NN Palmetto Palmetto Ave, Ave, Sanford, Sanford, FLFL 32771 32771 Hole Custom Tackle, Inc. (407) 447-7637 Aloma Square Shopping Center (407)Mud 447-7637 33 2133 Component Oviedo, FL 6860 Aloma Ave., Winter Park, FL 48 Componet 3737 - The - The Steer Steer (407) (407) 286-6802 286-6802 2133 Loop Loop SuiteSuite 1001,1001, Oveido, FL 32765 www.mudhole.com 8015 8015 S.www.bostonsfishhouse.com S. Orange Orange Ave., Ave., Orlando Orlando FLFL www.mudhole.com

2730 Forsyth Rd, Orlando, FL 32792 Portside Marina (407) 249-1124 www.portsideorlando.com

439 Aulin Ave, Oviedo, FL 32765 Talon Marine Services (407) 542-7600 439 www.talonmarineservices.com

31 2500 N. Forsyth Rd., Orlando, FL www.AHStorage.co 4949 - Martin - Martin Tree Tree Service, Service, Inc. Inc. (407) (407) 359-1119 359-1119

(386) 668-4491 Areas Areas Best Best Picks Picksfor forRestaurants Restaurants Vapor and Company (407) 878-7397 488 WHighlands Highbanks Rd, DeBary, 32713 3621 S. orlando Dr., Sanford, FL Marina & CampFL Resort (336) 668-4491 4747 - Jolly - Jolly Gator Gator Fish Fish Camp Camp Bar Bar Grill Grill www.campresort.com SR 436, Altamonte Springs, FL&& 11 488 W. Highbanks Rd., DeBary, FL 51 (407) (407) 349-5554 349-5554 East SR 50, Orlando, FL www.campresort.com 14 - Boat Tree Marina (407) 322-1610 4650 4650 Ewww.vaporandco.com E State State RdRd 46,46, Geneva, Geneva, FLFL 32732 32732 4370 Carraway Sanford, 32771 www.thejollygator.com www.thejollygator.com Boat Tree Pl, Marina (407)FL322-1610 www.boattree.com Area Best Picks for Restaurants 14 3370 Carraway Pl., Sanford, FL 3939 - Fish - Fish onon Fire Fire (407) (407) 812-6881 812-6881 www.boattree.com 21 - Bitters Bait & Tackle (407) 699-6619 7937 7937 Daetwyler Daetwyler Dr, Dr, Orlando, Orlando, FL 32812 Jolly Gator Fish Camp FL Bar &32812 Grill 65 N US HwyBait 17 92, Longwood, FL 32750 www.fishonfireorlando.com www.fishonfireorlando.com Bitters & Tackle (407) 699-6619 (407) 349-5554 47 www.bittersbaitandtackle.com 4650 S. State Rd. 46, Geneva, FL 21 65 N. US Hwy 17-92, Longwood, FL 4040 - High - High Tide Tide Harry’s Harry’s (407) (407) 273-4422 273-4422 www.bittersbaitandtackle.com www.thejollygator.com 43 - Academy Sports + Outdoors 4645 4645 S Semoran S Semoran Blvd, Blvd, Orlando, Orlando, FLFL 32822 32822 East Colonial 11955 E. Colonial Dr Orlando, FL www.hightideharrys.com www.hightideharrys.com

27 - Orlando Service(407) (407)896-0839 896-0839 Orlando Painting Painting Service 65 Ave,Ave., suiteSuite B, Winter 27Harold 65 Harold B, WinterPark, Park,FL FL 32789 www.orlandopaintingservice.com www.orlandopaintingservice.com

32 2730 Forsyth Rd., Orlando, FL www.portsidemarina.com 23 - Talon Marine Services (407) 542-7600

231 Gore Orlando, 32806, 231 WW Gore St,St, Orlando, FLFL 32806, A&H Storage (407) 6766-0507 www.thomaslumber.com www.thomaslumber.com

W C

Bait & Tackle Shops / Outfitters / Apparel 1215 1215 Bob Bob White White Trail, Trail, Chuluota, Chuluota, FLFL 32766 32766 Thomas Lumber Company (407) 841-1250 Bait & Tackle Shops / Outfitters / www.martintreeserviceinc.com www.martintreeserviceinc.com Apparel Tackle Co. (800) 516-1750 34 231 W. Gore St., Orlando, FL 15 - American

Orlando, FL 32804 Lake Fairview Marina (407) 295-0117 4503 www. Lakefairviewmarina.com

29 N. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL www.lakefairviewmarina.com 32 - Portside Marine (407) 249-1124

3131 - Pyramid - Pyramid Cabinets Cabinets (407) (407) 947-8499 947-8499 451 451 Fairvilla Fairvilla Road, Road, Orlando, Orlando, FLFL 32808 32808 CoastalFlo (386) 845-4516 www.codepyramid.com www.codepyramid.com 2578 Enterprise Rd., Suite 340, Orange City, FL 101 www.coastalflo.com 3434 - Thomas - Thomas Lumber Lumber Company Company (407) (407) 841-1250 841-1250

www.millennium-electric.com 41 - Water Works Pressure Cleaning & Sealing Works Pressure Cleaning & Sealing (407) Water 376-9526 (407)Lake 376-9526 490 Buck Lane, Geneva, FL 32732 41 490 Buck Lake Lane, Geneva, FL www.jmwaterworksinc.com www.jmwaterworksinc.com Captain Troy Perez (321) 607-2033 99 capt.troyperez@gmail.com Mosquito Lagoon - Indian River - Port Canaveral CJS Aluminum Inc. N. Goldenrod Rd., Orlando, FL 100 210 CF (407) 281-9210 Spacecoast (321) 345-2011 www.cjsaluminum.com

84 2022 • THEANGLERMAG.COM BREVARD JANUARY 2024 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM 8ORLANDO ORLANDO AUGUST JANUARY 2024COASTALANGLERMAG.COM COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM

St. Johns River Steak & Seafood 2222 - Huey - Huey Magoo’s Magoo’s (407) (407) 706-6004 706-6004 www.hueymagoos.com www.hueymagoos.com 17 (407) 878-0980 1010 Locations Locations See – See our our adad on on Restaurant Restaurant Page 550 N. –Palmetto Ave., Sanford, FL Page

1313 - Camp - Camp House Restaurant Restaurant (407) (407) 915-5401 915-5401 HueyHouse Magoo’s (407) 706-6802 100 100 Swww.hueysmagoos.com White Cedar Cedar Rd, Rd, Sanford, Sanford, FLFL 32771 32771 22S White www.camphousebarandgrill.com www.camphousebarandgrill.com 10 Locations - See our ad on restaurant page 5252 - The - The Deli Deli (407) (407) 332-8800 332-8800 (407) 915-5401 Camp House Restaurant 4360 4360 Carraway Pl,Pl, Sanford, Sanford, FL 32771 32771 100 S. White Cedar Rd.,FL Sanford, FL 13 Carraway

www.camphousebarandgrill.com 5353 - T- T J’sJ’s Seafood Seafood Shack Shack (407) (407) 365-3365 365-3365 197 197 EE Mitchell Mitchell Hammock Hammock Rd, Rd, Oviedo, Oviedo, FLFL 32765 32765 The Deli (407) 332-8800 52 E4360 12231 12231 E Colonial Colonial Dr. Dr. #230, #230, Orlando(407) Orlando(407) 250-4191 250-4191 Carraway Pl., Sanford, FL www.tjsseafoodshack.com www.tjsseafoodshack.com

TJ’s Seafood Shack (407) 365-3365 5454 - Oasis - Oasis On On The The River River (407) (407) 636-6300 636-6300 197 E. Mitchell Hammock Rd., Oviedo, 4380 4380 Carraway Place, Place, Sanford, Sanford, FLFL 32771 32771 FL 53 Carraway 12231 E. Colonial Dr. #230, Orlando, FL www.tjsseafoodshack.com 5656 - -Celery Celery City City Craft Craft (407) (407) 915-5541 915-5541 114 114 S. S. Palmetto Palmetto Ave., Ave., Sanford Sanford FLFL 32771 32771 Sanford Marina (407) 322-2910 celerycitycraft.com celerycitycraft.com

54 531 N. Palmetto Ave., Sanford FL

5555 -West -West End End Trading Trading Co. Co. (407) (407) 322-7475 322-7475 CeleryAve, City Craft (407) 915-5541 202 202 Sanford Sanford Ave, Sanford, Sanford, FLFL 32771 32771 56 114 Palmetto Ave., Sanford, FL www.drinkatwestend.com www.drinkatwestend.com www.celerycitycraft.com West End Trading Co. (407) 322-7475

55 202 Sanford Ave., Sanford, FL www.drinkatwestend.com

FL 250 1250

We Support Our Community Businesses!!

19 101

016 0016

015

7 2

52 14

55 9

17 54 56

19 5146

ve, Ave,

21 27

29 28

53 49 23 22

15 48 99 56

32 60

31 30

100

36 37 39

765 5 0-4191 4191

45 35

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COMJANUARY AUGUST 2022 ORLANDO ORLANDO COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM JANUARY 2024 BREVARD 99 5 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM 2024

Community Service Providers Triangle Marine

Sea Tow of Central Florida Lakes

11415 US-441, Tavares, FL 32778 Phone:(352) 343-6146 www.trianglemarinecenter.biz

(877) 800-1492 12307 Wedgefield Drive , Grand Island, FL 32735

Always Looking for Captains

Bennington Pontoons – TideWater Johnson – Evinrude – Yamaha

Lake, Orange, Western Volusia, Seminole, Osceola, Western Brevard, Eastern Sumter, Eastern Polk

All American Marine

7024 S Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32809 Phone: (407) 855-9988 www.allamericanmarineorlando.com Service All Outboard Brands – Stern Drives – Canvas – Interiors – Trailer Repair

CJS

Boat Max USALic# SCC056698

6” Pioneer & 7” Seamless Gutters - Glasstream - Aquasport - Stottcraft

Suzuki Dealer Parts and Service

407-281-1599

Thomas Lumber Company

4503 N Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32804 Phone: (407) 295-0117 www. Lakefairviewmarina.com

231 W Gore St, Orlando, FL 32806, Phone: (407) 841-1250 www.thomaslumber.com

Consignment Sales – Outboard Service – Storage – Ship Store – Sailing Classes

Old Fashion Lumber Yard – Lumber – Trim – Custom Doors – Hardware – Delivery – Customer Service

Nobles Marine

Campbell Renovations Inc.

285 Campbell Ranch Run, Geneva, FL 32732 Phone:(407) 349-0016 Cell: 407-947-5460 www.campbellrenovationsinc.com

437 N Palmetto St, Leesburg, FL 34748 or 1931 N. Hwy 19, Crystal River Phone: (352) 787-5792 www.noblesmarine.com

State Certified Contractor CBC 1255779 Residential & Commercial New Construction – Renovations – Kitchens – Bathrooms – Additions – Tenant Build Out

Mako – Tracker – Nitro – Tahoe - Mercury Regency - Sun Tracker

Vapor and Company

Owens Fishing & Marine

3621 S. Orlando Dr. Sanford FL 32773 Phone:(407) 878-7397 www.vaporandco.com

935 N Bay St, Eustis, FL 32726 Phone: (352) 357-3030 Saltwater Tackle & Bait - Ballyhoo, Freshwater Tackle - Live Bait - Wild Shiners Costa - Shimano Top Shelf Dealer Outboard Service & Boat Parts Hunting & Snorkeling Accessories Bow Fishing

550 N Palmetto Ave, Sanford, FL 32771 Phone: (407) 878-0980

407-322-2910

On Water Location – Special Events – Full Bar – Steaks – Fresh Seafoodel

Tid

• Aluminum GuttersNew in a Boats Variety of Colors • Copper Gutters & Sales - Authorized Yamaha and Round Downspouts • Aluminum & Vinyl Soffit & Fascia

Lake Fairview Marina

St. Johns River Steak & Seafood Sanford Marina

9700 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando FL 32817 FREE Phone: (321) 866-0306 www.boatmaxusa.com Aluminum Inc. Estimates

www.cjsaluminum.com

Electronic Cigarettes and E-Liquid Experts in Smoking Cessation Orlando Coastal Angler Magazine Approved! Altamonte Springs, Orlando East SR 50

2Tu

4Th

6Sa

7Su

9Tu

Po n

capt.troyperez@gmail.com Orlando Painting Service

65 Harold Ave, suite B, Winter Park, FL 32789 capttroyfl Phone: 407) 896-0839 capt.troyperez www.orlandopaintingservice.com

531 N. Palmetto Ave., Sanford FL www.downtownsanfordmarina.com 10 ORLANDO 10 ORLANDO

Serving Central Florida For Over 25 Years

AUGUST 2022 • THEANGLERMAG.COM JANUARY 2024 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM

Commercial – Residential Custom Homes – Re-Paint Specialist – Pressure Washing

Pat

Seb

raft d

m –

ice

s Pro

732 me a 0

bout ell as hops small ge of with ut little their n buy e the onth w the there

u will uying with tores ntion d are

sright –

these some r less ting. 34 on ways local than ots of

401Commerce Commerce Way, 401 Way,Unit Unit#101, 101, Longwood, LongwoodFLFL32750 32750 www.respitecmedical.com •• 407-834-2266 www.respitecmedical.com 407-834-2266and and1-800-945-6685 1-800-945-6685 Specializing in meeting rhe needs of theofhome respiratory Specializing in meeting the needs the home and sleep therapy patients. respiratory and sleep therapy patients.

CENTRAL East CoastEAST Tide COAST Charts Tide Charts brought to you by these businesses JANUARY 2024

DAY

Miami Beach, Government Cut August 2022

TIME

HEIGHT

2:21 AM -0.63 L 23TU 12:12 AM -0.3 L 5:29 AM 0.24 L 12F 7:05 AM 2.2 H 9:13 AM 2.64 H 12:00 PM 2.12 H 12:43 PM 0.16 L 2:52 PM -0.18 L 6:01 PM 0.31 L Miami, Government Cut (Approximate Times) 7:06 PM 2.05 H 9:22 PM 2.47 H 2TU 12:22 AM 1.96 H Time6:14 Height TimeL Height 1:00 AM Time-0.32Height 24W L 13SA Height 3:11 AM -0.62 AM 0.36 L Time 1M 5:15 AM PM 0.2 2.03 10WH 1:07 AM 10:00 0.2 AM H AM 2.3 7:49 12:40 19F 2.66 2:37 28SuAM 3:322.23 AM H0.4 11:506:47 AM PM 2.3 0.3 L 7:36 AM 3:42 2.6 PM -0.28 8:53 10:04 AM L2.7 0.11 L AM 0.3 1:28 PM PM AM 0.2 1.91 H 1:31 PM 10:14 -0.4 PM 3:27 3:472.08 PM H0.2 2.5 H PM 2.3 7:51 PM 3W 5:281:11 2Tu 12:107:03 AM AM 2.4 0.46 L 8:24 PM 4:02 2.8 AM -0.55 9:26 0.8 1:44 AM 10:26 PM L2.7 -0.32 14SU L PM 25TH 5:541:22 AM PM 0.2 1.95 11ThH 2:02 AM 10:47 0.1 AM 20Sa2.62 3:30 29M AM 4:072.25 AM H0.3 H AM 2.2 8:29 12:33 PM 2.3 2.8 PM -0.35 9:50 10:45 AM L2.7 0.05 L AM 0.4 2:11 PM 7:35 PM 0.28 L 8:34 AM 4:33 PM 0.3 -0.4 4:27 PM 2.2 4:24 PM 0.3 8:32 PM 2.1 H PM 2.49 H 4TH 6:102:04 AM 1.89 H 2:26 PM 11:08 3W 12:48 AM 2.3 9:15 PM 2.9 10:24 PM 0.8 11:02 PM 2.7 2:25 AM -0.3 L L 26F 7:57 AM 0.52 L 15M 4:55 AM -0.41 6:36 AM 0.2 12F 2:55 AM 0.0 21Su 4:28 AM 2.1 30Tu 4:44 AM 0.2 9:06 AM 2.25 H 11:34 AM 2.54 H 2:09 PM 1.89 H 1:19 PM 2.3 9:28 AM 2.9 10:47 AM 0.5 11:26 AM 2.7 2:51 PM 0.01 L 5:27 PM -0.38 L 8:25 PM 0.22 L 3:18 PM -0.4 6:58 PM 0.4 5:26 PM 2.2 5:03 PM 0.4 16TU H PM 0.8 9:12 PM 5F 1:293:01 4Th AM AM 2.3 1.91 H 10:03 PM12:03 3.0 AM 2.43 11:20 11:39 2.1 PM H2.7 -0.25 5:51 AM -0.24 L AM 27SA 7:258:54 AM AM 0.1 0.54 3SaL 3:47 AM -0.1 22M 5:27 2.1 3:03 31W AM 5:23 AM L0.2 H AM 0.4 9:40 AM 2:11 3:01 PM PM 2.3 1.86 H 10:20 AM12:24 2.9 PM 2.42 11:40 12:102.23 PM H2.7 -0.02 6:23 PM -0.38 L PM 2.3 3:28 PM 7:529:17 PM PM 0.5 0.14 L 4:09 PM -0.3 6:22 5:46 PM L0.5 17WPM 1:01 H AM 0.8 9:50 5F6SA2:154:00 AM AM 2.3 1.97 H 10:49 3.0 AM 23Tu2.34 12:12 1Th PM 12:182.08 AM H2.6 8:219:51 AM AM 0.1 0.51 14Su 6:23 2.2 3:40 AM 6:07 AM L0.2 -0.17 6:50 AM -0.06 L AM 28SU L 4:37 AM -0.2 3:103:58 PM PM 2.3 1.87 H 11:11 AM 1:16 2.9 PM 2.27 12:30 12:57 PM H2.7 2.18 H PM 0.4 10:14 AM 8:54 PM PM 0.5 0.02 L 5:00 PM -0.2 7:11LPM 2.4 4:05 PM 6:34 PM L0.6 -0.03 7:22 PM -0.35 10:10 6Sa AM AM 2.2 2.07 H 11:34 PM 2:03 2.9 AM 24W2.25 12:59 2F PM 1:01 2.05 AM H2.5 18TH H AM 0.7 10:28 7SU3:11 4:59 9:23 AM AM 0.0 0.44 15ML 5:26 AM -0.1 7:13LAM 29M 2.3 4:16 AM 6:57 AM L0.2 -0.07 7:53 AM 0.1 10:45 4:15 PM 2.4 2.8 1:14 PM 0.3 1:502.12 PM H2.6 10:47 AM PM 2.14 H 4:56 PM 1.93 H 12:00 PM 2:13 10:00 PM 0.5 0.0 7:55 PM 2.5 7:30 PM 0.7 4:40 PM -0.03 L PM -0.31 L 11:01 PM -0.13 L 5:50 PM 8:23 7Su 4:15 AM 2.3 16Tu 12:18 AM 2.8 25Th 1:41 AM 0.6 3Sa 1:52 AM 2.5 11:06 PM 2 H 3:08 AM 2.18 H 8M 5:55 AM 2.2 H 19F 10:28 AM 0.0 6:15 AM -0.1 7:59 AM 2.4 7:57 AM 0.3 0.04 L AM 0.2 L 30TU 4:52 AM 11:36 AM 0.33 L 12:50 PM 8:57 5:23 PM 2.4 2.7 1:55 PM 0.3 2:52 PM 2.6 11:21 AM 2.03 H PM 2.03 H 11:065:52 PM PM 0.5 2.03 H 6:40 PM 3:14 0.2 8:35 PM 2.6 8:34 PM 0.8 -0.01 L AM 0.5 5:15 11:52 8M 5:25 AM PM 2.3 -0.29 17WL 1:03 AM 9:24 2.6 PM 26F-0.28 2:20 4Su PM 2:54 AM L2.5 20SA H AM 2.5 11:46 PM 9TU 11:326:48 AM AM -0.1 2.33 H 7:06 AM 4:14 0.1 AM 2.14 8:43 9:041.94 AM H0.3 12:25 6:29 PM PM 2.6 0.2 L 1:40 PM 10:00 2.6 AM 0.25 2:33L PM 31W 0.2 5:29 AM 4:000.15 PM L2.6 6:47 9Tu 12:08 AMPM 0.4 2.16 H 7:33 PM 4:17 0.5 PM 1.98 9:13HPM 2.7 11:55 AM 9:441.94 PM H0.8 -0.27 L AM 0.4 5:52 10W6:33 12:42 L 1:49 AM 10:24 AM AM 2.5 -0.44 18Th 2.4 PM 27Sa 2:57 5M PM 4:040.01 AM L2.5 12:33 PMAM -0.3 2.47 H 7:58 AM 5:17 0.2 AM 2.14 9:24 10:15 AM 0.3 21SU H AM 2.6 7:38 7:291:14 PM PM 2.7 0.07 L 2:32 PM 10:59 2.4 AM 0.25 3:10L PM 0.2 5:10 PM 2.6 0.6 PM 1.98 9:50 10:53 PM 0.7 H PM 2.7 7:39 PM 2.29 H 8:28 PM 5:19 11:20 PM -0.28 L 11TH 1:31 AM -0.56 L Po nce 8:26 de Leo Pie rce H Inlet, S. Jetty AMn Inlet 2.57 H 22M 6:14 AMFt.2.16 Hig hPM Ti de-0.06 -11 mLin ute s 11:53 AM 0.21 Hig L h Ti de -31 m in ute s 2:03 Lo w Ti de +19 m in ute s Lo w Ti de -18 m in utes 6:16 PM 2.01 H 8:31 PM 2.4 H Your insurance policy does not include a 1M

West Lake Toho - The summer bass bite has been improving with the best times to fish in the early morning and late evening. Summer rains have kept the flood control gates open every few days. The water quality is clear. Goblins Cove is still producing good numbers of bass - fishing with live shiners over hydrilla. Fish the boat runs’ entrances at sunrise for good top water action. Every morning at sunrise, bass can be found schooling on shad; Priority service anywhere there is flow. It usually for members lasts 30 minutes after sunrise. Big beetle spins and small M-5 Rapalas work best. Unlimited towing with

popping bug. I have thoroughly enjoyed hearing the popping bug get hit. Daytime anglers are catching good numbers fishing the shallow bedding areas. Bait of choice is crickets fished under a float. Another good area to fish is canals when the water is flowing, trolling will only trigger more bites. Crappie - Anglers are fishing open water for crappie using jigs tipped with a minnow. Anglers trolling jigs are catching good limits of crappie. The key is to find them suspended in open water.

BUILT TO RESPOND no distance or dollar

East Lake Toho - Bass fishing on East Lake has been good using artificial baits early morning. The best place to fish will be at the edges of the cattails. Then move to open water as the morning Service on every progresses. Most anglers are boat you own, rent,pepper grass flipping open water matts with good success. Fish or bareboat charter the deeper edges of the grass 100% tow coverage watermelon seed, Junebug, and to repair on red colorsfacility work best.

Bluegill - I in have been trying a new all covered vessels limits your home area tactic this summer. A good way to Panfish - Fish open water shell beat the heat. I have been fishing beds with red wigglers. If you are Are member? Sea Tow Central Florida Lakes at nighttime in you the acanals using a looking to fill the cooler for dinner, 800-4-SEATOW seatow.com fly rod, throwing popping bugs up the open water shell beds are against the bank. On a good moon hard to beat. © 2023 “Seathe Tow,” including words, phrases logos, are the trademarks of Sea Tow Services International, Inc. All rights reserved. phase, bluegill will and crush

Tide Charts Brought To You By:

Po nce Inlet, Halifax Rive r Jensen Beach ® Hig h Ti de +5 m in ute s Hig h Ti de +2 ho u r s, 17 m in ute s Lo w Ti de +33 m in ute s Lo w Ti de +3 ho u r s, INLET 4 m in ute s PONCE INLET PATRICK AIR FORCE SEBASTIAN

Sea Tow membership and all the benefits that come with it. 25% of our service calls are (Halifax River) BASE BRIDGE Po rt Canave ralwithout (Tr i dent Pie r) Sewell Pt Tow resolved towing and Sea TIME OFFSET TIME OFFSET TIME OFFSET Daily Pre dictio ns Hig h Ti de +1 ho u r s, 13 m in ute s High +5 min / Low +33 min High -64 min / Low -38 min High -48 min / Low -24 min Lo w Ti de +2 ho u r s, 9 m in ute s members are always served first. HEIGHT OFFSET HEIGHT OFFSET HEIGHT OFFSET High *1.18 ft / Low *1 ft High *1.5 ft / Low *1.43 ft High *.93 ft / Low *1.0 ft Ju pite r Inlet, S.Jetty Patr ick Air Fo rce Base Hig h Ti de -1 ho u r, 4 m in ute Hig h Ti de -10 m in ute s w Ti de -38 m in ute sCANOVA BEACH Lo w Ti de -9 m in ute(IRL) s CAPELo CANAVERAL SEBASTIAN

Are you a member?

TIME OFFSET TIME OFFSET TIME OFFSET SEA TOW/ CENTRAL LAKES Po-26 Sebastian Br imin dg eFLORIDA rt min Eve rgla de s92- min Tu r/nLow ing 156 Basin High -66 min Inlet Low -44 High -53 min / Low High min Hig h Ti de -48 m in ute s Hig h Ti de -31 m in ute s 877-800-1492 \ seatow.com HEIGHT OFFSET HEIGHT OFFSET HEIGHT OFFSET Lo w Ti de -24 m in ute s Lo w Ti de -13 m in ute s High *1.5 ft / Low *1.42 ft High *1.49 ft / Low *1.5 ft High *.15 ft / Low *.5 ft

bass trips which are typical for this time of year. The month of September is when to start thinking of booking your bass fishing trip, as the females start to feed up while they make their way into the shallows for the early spawn time. It’s also the time to book your fall crappie trip too. Good fishing areas: parts of the shoal; Dupree Bar; Dyess ditch and Horse Island and Indian Prairie. Tin house has been solid throughout the season for crappie, bass and bream, work your way up towards 3rd and 2nd point where you’ll find some bass feeding on the bedding bream. A few areas on Kings Bar have been good and the water looks perfect.

August can beE. challenging but fun! 9700 Colonial Dr. / SR 50 Challenging due to hot temperatures, Fishing

Lake

Okeechobee

possible afternoon thunderstorms and lower water levels. Now is a good time to brush up on your deeper water angling skills whether its fishing in the Kissimmee River or the Canal system. Bass like the deeper, cooler water temperatures tie on those deep diving baits. To 321-866-0306 Contact Uscrank Today book you’re next fun-filled, Along with crank baits, a Carolina- productive and educational fishing Pioneer Glasstream Aquasport Stottcraftor log Rig (c-rig) or a texas-rigged big trip call me at-863-228-7263 worm will Boats produce Sales some quality onto my website to check New - Authorized Yamaha andout the bass. customers and their catches; hotel Suzuki Dealer Parts and Service recommendations; guide rates and In the early morning hours have etc. Capt Angie’s sponsors are: a hard top water lure tied on like Caymas boats and Toho Marine; a bang-a-lure or devils horse and Lews; G-Loomis; BnM Poles; Midaim at the edges working the lure South Tackle; Maui Jim; Gill; Bullet out about 20-25 ft as you go along Weights; Road Runner; Real Magic; the rock-bottom in the River and Tru Turn hooks; Mega Strike; Gene Canals. If you’re fishing the lake, Larew; Pradco Brands and BUFF some areas of the lake are showing USA. signs of algae which is normal this time of year.

We Need Boats Now! Any Size, Any Age Always Looking Good

What’s biting now? I’ve been taking bream trips; fingerling catfish and

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM JANUARY AUGUST 2022 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM 2024

ORLANDO 11 11 ORLANDO

INCREASE YOUR FISHING

PERFORMANCE

Serving CF Fla since 1925 them. Looking at charter catch pictures from last year - we had a few good days of mahi too so set your trolling spread accordingly.

Doors, Trim, Lumber, Hardware, Customer Service

Don’t forget grouper closes this month. Please be sure to follow up on all the regulations. It is tough when regulations are constantly changing and normally the enforcers don’t know the rules themselves. If the wind allows you to at least fish the beach, you may come across sea trout, whiting and croakers to keep you and the kids occupied. Take advantage of the few good days we’re going to see and get out there and catch some fish!

www.thomaslumber.com (407) 841-1250

Hopefully, everyone’s holidays and New Years were awesome and safe! Fired-Up Fishing Charters wants to thank everyone who helped us this past year. Without our fishing community being so friendly to one another all the time, fishing would be way more difficult. Part of doing well out front is knowing where they’re chewing and sometimes relying on the help from fellow captains. Thank You! This report has been brought to you by Captain Chris Cameron of Besides the weather being the Fired Up Fishing Charters, your biggest factor in January, fish- premier fishing guide charter of ing is normally really good. The shark fishing Cocoa Beach, offkingfish run should continue to shore fishing Port Canaveral, do well. This is also the time that near shore fishing Cape Canavsailfish and wahoo get a little bet- eral, and Orlando charter fishing. ter out deep. We don’t have the run that down south gets, but it is pretty decent if you can target

Troy Perez 321-607-2033 capt.troyperez@gmail.com January is the coldest time of the year, but the flats are still good for fishing. On sunny clear days you can have some of the finest flats fishing even if temperatures are in the 30s. The fish are out in the open trying to soak up the sun and they are hungry. You can have days where you catch 20-30 fish a day or even more. The only drawback is the fish do not fight as well. A lot of times the trout are in the holes, which means the hole could be three to five feet deep right off a one foot flat. The holes are usually a softer bottom which the fish like. Bouncing jigs really slow off the bottom will typically catch the redfish, trout and black drum. I use 8# braid tied to 20# fluorocarbon leader. The colder it gets, the cleaner the water becomes, so sight fishing is your best bet on sunny days. When it is calm the fish will be out in the open on the flats. On wind12

ORLANDO

JANUARY 2024

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM

ier days the fish will try to get out of the muddy water and be on the leeward side of an island or point. The Indian River and the Banana River are deeper than Mosquito Lagoon with manmade canals, so the fish go in deeper muddier holes up to 5’-10’ deep and stack up in there. Fish the canals with a jig on the bottom or a Mirrolure that sinks and work it very slowly. Whatever color Mirrolure you like will work. The canals with oyster bars, tree lines or unused docks with holes near them are what you want to look for. Back in the day when I used to scout for my charters and did not know what dock or canal to fish, I would scout on a sunny calm day because the water is cleaner and use a trolling motor or idle in the area looking for fish. They tend to stay in the same area all winter long and I would return another day to fish for them. The bigger trout are more fragile this time of the year and I use lures instead of bait so not to gut hook them. Troy’s tip of the month: Don’t be afraid to go out on windy, windy days with lots of sun you can still catch a lot of fish. Having lots of sun is the key.

catch had a so set ngly.

s this o folns. It s are norknow wind h the cross ers to upied. good nd get sh!

ght to ron of your ter of h, offveral, anavshing.

Our great fishing state of Florida has the reputation of being one of the best destinations in the U.S. too catch a trophy bass and for those bass anglers who live here year-round, several have a trophy bass to their credit. The FWC has a program currently going on and when a Trophy Bass is caught ( 8lbs. or larger) it can be registered for a certificate and several great prizes. The awards for the “Trophy Catch” program get better when a bass over 10lbs. is caught and even better when the bass is over 13lbs., visit www.myfwc.com and get registered. As those of us who do live here and are able to fish all year long the few months between January and April provide some of the best opportunities for catching just such a trophy bass. For those bass anglers willing to fight the cold weather, cloudy and blustery days, along with some rain will have a very good chance of catching a trophy. Our several surrounding fresh water fisheries rival the some of the best in the country. The St. Johns River & Lake System, Harris Chain of Lakes, Clermont Chain, the Kissimmee Cain of Lakes, Kissimmee River, Headwaters, Stick Marsh and Lake Okeechobee are among the best “Trophy Bass” producers in the U.S. This time of the year the bass are in spawning mode. The bass will leave the deeper water haunts to the available cover near or around spawning areas or flats. The bigger females will eat large baits as they await the call from Mother Nature. Usually the females will be close to the areas where the spawn will take place in the heavier more dense cover. Over the next several months and up-coming moon phases and while dodging the ever changing weather and cold fronts, anglers will have the chance at catching the heaviest bass of the year. Some females over the 8lb. mark will gain as much as 3lbs. in roe or eggs, along with their hearty appetites for just about anything that gets near them while fattening up for the spawning cycle. As the cold-fronts are passing now every 7 to 10 days, the warm spikes in between the coldest of days can be some of the seasons’ best bite days. When we have several days of uncommonly cold weather like some of the recent fronts brought us, the water temperature drops well into the low 50 degree range. The bass being a cold blooded animal will also be at the same temp. range, slowing down their metabolism. When a warming trend for several days in a row and a quick spike up in water temp. follows several days of cold weather along with a change in the moon phase to either New Moon or Full-moon, Mother Nature’s spawningbell will surely be ringing. The cold water temp. will group the bass within close proximity of the bedding or spawning areas, under the thickest of cover. The recent spraying treatment for water-hyacinths and hydrillia in several of the lakes in Kissimmee Chain has killed both plant species as well as the surrounding grasses.As the plants

start to decompose the water temp. around the decaying plants is just a little warmer than the surrounding water. Sometimes the big girls will tuck right up underneath these floating matts just awaiting their next meal and the right conditions for spawning. Catching the heavy females requires some patience, usually a heavy flipping stick loaded with 50 to 65lb. braided line, a heavy punch weight of as much as 1-1/2ozs., along with creature bait or some type of plastic craw style bait. For those of you who have caught a bass over 6lbs. with this technique the feeling of that hard thump and a 10ft. grass matt moves as a big girl grabs your bait is like none other! The other method for catching a trophy of a lifetime is by slowing floating or trolling a giant wild shiner of 8” or larger under a balloon or cork. Not only are the big girls willing to feed during the spawn, the male bass “Bucks” will bite with tremendous aggression at this time of year.Slow rolling large swim bait just under the water’s surface over Kissimmee grass, through small or large lily pads will bring some hard charging males from yards away. Slowly fishing a plastic senko style stick bait or a speed worm will also produce a lot of bites.As the water temp. raises to 58 - 62 degrees, along with the air temp. the top-water bite will be the staple. Plastic frogs, buzz-baits, chatter-baits, devil’s-horse and hard-stick will be extremely productive. Try several presentations until you get a few bites, the fish will let you know whether they like it slow or fast on any given day. Look for the areas in the lake w hich are best protected for the northeast blows, these areas will warm up the quickest. Find areas with hard sandy and shell bottom in less than 4ft. of water, sometimes as shallow as 12”. The male bass will make their beds, a sandy dished out area in the lakes bottom created by them fanning the bottom with their tails about the size of a large trash can lid. In cleaner water a bed can be spotted from several yards away. I carry an air-boat flag with me. Once I spot a bed I will position the flag on the edge of the bed then back away and position the boat to make several fan casts around the bed area, attempting to get a bite. The male bass will be able to pick up a worm or creature bait, remove it from the bed,spit it out,all while you are watching him do-it and without feeling anything at all. Sometimes it takes several attempts to get them to actually eat your offering. Once the males are removed from the bed and the female is ready to spawn, it may take several attempts to get her to bite as well. Use a bait which is small enough to see, bright or white in color and position your boat as to allow you to pay close attention to what the bass are doing. If the female is swimming around close to the area where you have located a bed but not hanging right at the bed, be patient, she is just not quite ready. I sometimes tie a cattail in a knot near the bed, tie a piece of colored ribbon to a reed or grass close to the bed as well as marking the spot on my GPS. Take a picture or two both with my phone & mentally to be able to find the bed later that day or in the next few days to follow. The process only lasts a few days for the female to do her thing,then the male bass will hang around for several days after the eggs or fry hatch to protect as many as possible. A good pair of polarizes sunglasses is a must. So if the chance to fish the warmer days following the on-going cold fronts or even the coldest days of this seasons’ spawn, do it! Remember to slow down, be patient and stay warm, as the cold days will bring Hot Bites!!

get out on the point. anana squito als, so holes up in jig on t sinks atever work. s, tree holes ant to when I rs and anal to y calm leaner idle in y tend winter er day r trout of the of bait

n’t be windy an still lots of

Cold Days Bring Hot Bass Bites COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM

JANUARY 2024

ORLANDO

I have been fully aware of the impact of taking kids and young adults for some time on the water. It is the story of my life both personally and professionally. The sights, smells, time spent with loved ones and mentors alike all burn into memory banks and shape who you become. The water is a place to learn the acceptance of failure and the sweet taste of victory. There is some primal trigger that gets flipped when you head to the shore for a cast or jump on a boat and head out to chase whatever the water gives.

If you want a big bass and you’re in Central Florida, then you are here at the right time - January means trophy sized bass on the Kissimmee Chain. The fronts are coming through every few days. We have had cold snaps in December to push water temps into the 50s. That’s all it takes to get the spawn triggered. Look for areas of clean water and sandy bottom and you will find buck males prepping beds with large female bass waiting nearby. Females will be within 40 yards of the beds staging in deeper water or near structure. This week when scouting for bass on the Kissimmee Chain, most of them were found in a foot of water, all males with the females not far away.

It happens to us all, but just so happens to be unconcealable in children. The amazement and wonder of what the next cast will bring, or the next critter seen will burst from them without control. It’s truly infectious and one of the best fringe benefits of my chosen career. One of the most important things to remember when introducing any young one to the water and angling, is keeping your time on the water engaging, light, and fun. For most young anglers, the experience of spending hours chasing some giant or glorious fish isn’t going to keep them interested and engaged. I tend to focus on fun easily caught fish and sprinkle in those opportunities at a “sea monster” to keep things interesting. Keep it simple and fun. Without a doubt some shrimp will be your best friend to make this happen. Small jobs will To have the best success catchalso let the youngsters feel as if they are part of the ing that trophy sized big bass, event and not a spectator. On a recent charter with fish around structure like KissimYoung Leo and his father Kevin (pictured) I got fully reminded of the amazing bond that fishing can bring and the amazing fishy-ness of an amazing young man. He did his research, his cast was on point, he hung on to every word and executed to the letter – Leo is six!

Fully engaged but still loved every hit big or small, and no doubt a waterman whose life will be shaped by the tides regardless of where he goes. Well done to that dad! Not every kid is a Leo, I was, but every kid will benefit from less distracting technology and more salt spray. If you enjoy the outdoors, take a kid, take several. and crappie fishing is in If fishing isn’t your thing take a charter, learn something Bass full swing. This is prime spawn new yourself, or just reach out to a fishy neighbor. time and will continue through

early springtime, so book some great fishing trips for big bass and specks. The water level has remained higher than normal, which makes for good fishing. The main areas around the lake have been really good ranging from Observation Shoal to the Monkey Box and on up the North Shore, parts of Kings Bar, Hendry Creek and areas around J & S. The crappie bite is on fire! Colors that are catching specks range from white, green, pinks and orange. The best color to use is what you have the most confidence in. The nighttime minnow fisherman are catching them good in the lake and the Kissimmee River. The daytime minnow bite has been producing huge slabs and limits of delicious black crappie.

ORLANDO

JANUARY 2024

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM

mee grass, reeds, or bull rushes. These are the areas anglers have most success with - once you find them it is like fishing in a barrel. Baits of choice for artificial are the plastic lizard type baits, watermelon seed color, work it really slow. Lizards eat the eggs and will get eaten. Live wild shiners are best bait always for big bass if you can get them. Handle big bass with care and release quickly, they are all females with eggs. Tip - keep them out of water only as long as you can hold your breath. The Crappie bite is excellent on East Lake Toho. Don’t forget to sign up for the Shad and Crappie Derby. The fish are concentrated in open water grouping up. The best way to catch crappie is slow trolling with jigs in the deepest water you can find. Always tip jigs with live minnows. Find slight drop-offs on your bottom machine, there should be fish to target on the scope too. Become a Sea Tow Central Florida Lakes member and get peace of mind while fishing and boating. Happy New Year, Captain Randy.

Lures that have been catching bass are - swim jigs/swim baits; worms; flipping/pitching creature-style lures like crawdads; spinner baits; shallow crank baits; spooks and devil horses. Colors to consider - black/blue; white; red shad; June bug; tilapia and Okeechobee craw. A kind reminder to prep your boat for launch in the boat prepping lane not after you back up to the ramp. Be safe and hydrate, plus don’t forget your sunscreen even on cloudy days. To book fishing in Lake Okeechobee for bass or crappie call 863-228-7263. Check out www.southfloridabassfishing. com. I can accommodate trips that require more than one boat and multiple day trips. I also give Veteran and one-person trip discounts. I also offer my customers a special Hampton Inn room rate, inquiry when booking. Capt. Angie’s Sponsors: Toho Marine; Mercury Marine; BnM Poles; Mid-South; Reel Magic; Gene Larew; Gill; Bullet Weights; Lews; G-Loomis; Tru-Turn and Maui Jim.

rush0/50lb nglers cently. htonce had ing in week. or ard Joey type color, ds eat .going Live lways rpons ythem. day. e and or just all live feh them m on s you e baits much ing in ellent ’d be forget Crapthese ncen, jack ng up. treme pie is chools deepm, you lways fishing Find sottom right some fish to in 20 come Lakes d on. mind cellent Happy

STOP BY A LOCATION NEAR YOU OR ORDER ONLINE

s of ies), tching baits; ies), crealass dads; be crank dator orses. pon, /blue; cktiptiug; jackA aw. rfish. boat pping bait to the sible , plus tivity even

ndLake of appie ning klook out hing. surf trips move e boat eed. also on is on trip yease cusn Inn hem oking. The Toho our BnM year Magic; sual eights;

n and

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM 2024 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM COASTALANGLERMAG.COM ••THEANGLERMAG.COM THEANGLERMAG.COM JANUARY AUGUST 2022

ORLANDO ORLANDO 1515

Will Harrison and John Miller with another “Monster” Wahoo caught east of Flagger Beach out of Ponce Inlet, aboard “No Shot”

Please join us at the “Get Hook’d on Lake Monroe” Free Tournament event on January 13th and catch some FUN!!!

n Quilatan Club Florida’s Tommy Rust and Dyla nt Bass rece the of ners win , lbs. with 20.42 bee echo Oke e Nation High School at Lak

ORLANDO

JANUARY 2024

Seminole Jr Angler’s, Hayden Wolf with a pair of “Biggins” caught on Lake Okeechobee at the recent BASS Nation High School event

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM

BOATHOUSE Discount Marine Supplies

sliding . I still e cork plastic

Marine Supplies

OEM Marine Parts

Jacksonville

Locations Same Low Prices

Melbourne

Certified Service Department

under r mini te a bit

fishing bridges nd the of this o love. just a rk—or deeper, started . econd ays, it’s on the is not ure out

Authorized OEM Marine Engine & Parts Dealer Trailer Parts

Trailer Sales

oint. If om. I’ll akes a goal is drift. er, and Super r bait I

to tie outube

• AUTOMOTIVE • COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL

CTX NANO-CERAMIC TINT •SUPERIOR HEAT REJECTION MELBOURNE •ENHANCED STYLE 557 N. HARBOR CITY BLVD •99% UV PROTECTION MELBOURNE, FL 32935

(321) 254-2535

JACKSONVILLE

5615 BLANDING BLVD. JACKSONVILLE, FL 32244

904 7787775

BoathouseDiscountMarine.com

*LIFETIME WARRANTY 16 BREVARD

JANUARY 2019

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM

CATCH OF THE DAY FROM SEA TO SIZZLE

Make steak the catch of the day with a celebratory stop at Ruth's Chris. After a day on the water, join us for signature sizzle, hand-crafted cocktails and legendary hospitality. NORTH FLORIDA

CENTRAL FLORIDA

PONTE VEDRA BEACH 814 A1A N., Suite 103 Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 904-285-0014

ORLANDO 7501 W. Sand Lake Rd. Orlando, FL 32819 407-226-3900

JACKSONVILLE 1201 Riverplace Blvd. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Jacksonville, FL 32207 904-396-6200

WINTER PARK 480 N. Orlando Ave. Suite 100B Winter Park, FL 32789 407-622-2444 LAKE MARY 80 Colonial Center Pkwy. Lake Mary, FL 32746 407-804-8220

TAMPA 1700 N. Westshore Blvd. Tampa, FL 33607 813-282-1118 ST. PETERSBURG 131 2nd Ave. N. St. Petersburg, FL 33701 727-821-4139 SARASOTA 6700 S. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34231 941-924-9442 LAKEWOOD RANCH 6490 University Pkwy. Sarasota, FL 34240 941-315-6669

SOUTH FLORIDA WEST PALM BEACH 651 Okeechobee Blvd. West Palm Beach, FL 33401 561-514-3544 BOCA RATON 225 NE Mizner Blvd. Suite 100 Boca Raton, FL 33432 561-392-6746 BONITA SPRINGS 23151 Village Shops Way Suite 101, Coconut Point Mall Bonita Springs, FL 33928 239-948-8888

FORT LAUDERDALE 2525 N. Federal Hwy Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305 954-565-2338 AVENTURA 2980 NE 207th St. Aventura, FL 33180 305-912-1266 CORAL GABLES 2320 Salzedo St. Coral Gables, FL 33134 305-461-8360

WW WA NO NOW NN

Repower Center Inventory Reduc�on Sale

MORE THAN

30K LIONFISH

202 2023 20 20

SPEARED IN 2023 CHALLENGE advanced marine 407-498-5142 T

CALL FOR DETAILS - LIMITED QUANTITIES - WHILE SUPPLIES LAST

advancedmarine.com 1322 Carolina Ave, Saint Cloud, Florida

he results are in for Florida’s 2023 Lionfish Challenge, and it was a record-breaking year for divers working hard to protect our reefs from the scourge of invasive lionfish. With 281 participants embarking on 917 trips, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) annual four-month tournament removed 30,494 lionfish from Florida waters. It was a recordbreaking year for participation, nearly doubling the program’s previous high. The total number of lionfish removed was also a new record and beat last year’s numbers by nearly 5,000 fish. The event is one tool in FWC’s box to beat back the invasion of these beautiful but destructive little critters that plague Florida’s reefs. Lionfish are native to the Indo Pacific and the Red Sea. They were first reported off the Atlantic coast of Florida in 1985, and since then have spread like wildfire. They now inhabit the Atlantic coast up to North Carolina, the entire Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean. Lionfish are well equipped to outcompete native species on warmwater reefs. An array of venomous spines makes them unlikely prey item for larger fish, and they are voracious predators of smaller native fish and invertebrates. Lionfish reproduce prolifically and populate suitable habitat in high densities. They reduce native reef populations and have negative effects on overall reef habitat and health. They are a nasty invasive, and humans killing them continuously is the only way to combat them by controlling their numbers. By the way, they taste pretty good sizzled up in butter. Divers competing in the Lionfish Challenge are rewarded for their efforts, and winners are announced at the conclusion of the tournament. The following are the divers who speared the most lionfish in the 2023 Lionfish Challenge.

202 20 2023 2 20

With 16-Inch & 12-Inch Heavy Duty Beach Wheels, Custom Axle Kits & Pompano Rigs! 16-INCH: $129.99/Pair with Bushings $169.99/Pair with Bearings 12-INCH: $119.99/Pair w/Bushings $159.99/Pair w/Bearings • Fits 3/4 Axles • 350 lb. Weight Capacity Per Pair • Stainless Steel Needle Roller Bearings We Sell 3/4 In. Solid Aluminum Axle Kits for $34.99!

779.770.2100 • benjaminsbeachwheels.com 12 FLORIDA

JANUARY 2024

Recreational Division Lionfish King: Baye Beauford-1,514 lionfish Second Place: Dale Wolber-1,145 lionfish Third Place: David Connerth-773 lionfish

Commercial Division Commercial Champion: Jerry Butler-1,208 lbs. of lionfish Second Place: David Garrett-744 lbs. of lionfish Third Place: Alex Fogg-516 lbs. of lionfish

Military Prize Eric Larson-591 lionfish Get involved through the FWC Reef Rangers Facebook page at Facebook.com/FWCreefrangers

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

WAS: $22,995 WAS: $22,995 WAS: $22,995 WAS: $22,995 NOW: $22,395 NOW: $22,395 NOW: $22,395 NOW: $22,395 2023 2023 2023 2023

PRO SKIFF 15 CC

WAS: $22,995 NOW: $22,395

WAS: $29,870 WAS: $29,870 WAS: $29,870 WAS: $29,870 NOW: $28,870 NOW: $28,870 NOW: $28,870 NOW: $28,870

2023 2023 2023 2023 2023

PRO SKIFF 17 CC

WAS: $29,870 NOW: $28,870 2023

Seawall Erosion Control

SIGNS OF SEAWALL EROSION Competitive Pricing Serving All of Florida Family Owned Guaranteed Work Free Estimates Free 2nd Opinions Experienced and Reputable Fully Licensed

1. Cracks in the seawall vertical panels or seawall cap 2. Depressions in your yard 3. Water bubbling up from the ground 4. Small sinkholes along the wall 5. Leaning or bowing of a seawall

SCHEDULE YOUR FREE EVALUATION NOW

888.426.1002 www.FloridaSeawallSolutions.com

#CBC1255391

river River was y betwe W reprod River situati bass. Conse Chipo state w popul Th when and d shoal FW of sho Then pure s Ov shoal subseq than 6 these

THE RACE TO RESCUE

By Nick Carter

CHIPOLA SHOAL BASS

hen it comes to warm-water fly fishing, shoal bass are about as fun as it gets. These pugnacious river bass are native to only one river system: The Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint River Basin, and their preferred swift-water habitat was years ago reduced to tributaries and stretches between dams in Georgia, Alabama and Florida. While Georgia claims the healthiest native, reproducing populations of the species in the Flint River and in pockets of the Chattahoochee River, the situation is a little more tenuous for Florida’s shoal bass. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), The 95-mile-long Chipola River is the last remaining waterbody in the state with a known naturally reproducing shoal bass population. The species was dealt a massive blow in 2018, when Hurricane Michael ripped over the Panhandle and depleted more than 90 percent of the Chipola’s shoal bass population. FWC stepped in to suspend harvest and possession of shoal bass in the Chipola River and its tributaries. Then they began hatching and releasing genetically pure shoal bass into the river. It appears to be working. Over the last two years, 11,000 fingerling shoal bass have been stocked into the Chipola. In subsequent samplings, DNA analysis showed more than 60 percent of yearling fish sampled came from these stockings.

“The stockings over these past two years have certainly made an impact on the population; shoal bass that were stocked last year are already within the 9-10 inch range,” said FWC biologist Andy Strickland. This is the first time genetically pure shoal bass have been successfully raised in an FWC hatchery, which is a big deal because genetic impurity is one of the largest threats shoal bass face. Across their native range, interbreeding with introduced non-native black bass species like Alabama bass and spotted bass has muddied the gene pool except in small pockets where genetically pure populations are isolated from interlopers. “It is extremely encouraging not only to successfully spawn this species in a hatchery setting but also to document the significant contribution the hatcheryreared fingerlings have made to the existing shoal bass population in the Chipola River to date,” said Bob DeMauro, Hatchery Manager at FWC’s Blackwater Research and Development Center. Biologists will continue to monitor Chipola River shoal bass and evaluate these stocking efforts in years to come. To learn more about a great shoal bass fishery, visit flyfishga.com.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

JANUARY 2024

FLORIDA 15

Cruising Into Adventure: Your Ultimate Guide to the 2024 Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show

et ready to set sail into an ocean of excitement at the 2024 Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show, where innovation meets Miami’s vibrancy and electric culture. This year promises an experience like no other, and we’ve got the scoop for navigating you through the show’s must-see experiences. Taking place throughout President’s Day weekend, Feb. 14-18, the show has historically welcomed over 100,000 visitors and featured more than a thousand highly sought-after boating and marine products, generating major economic revenue for the recreational boating industry and over a billion dollars to the state of Florida.

16 FLORIDA

JANUARY 2024

The World’s Largest Boat and Yachting Show: From Miami’s Mainland to the Deep Blue Embark across the City of Miami and Miami Beach, stopping at six iconic show locations, each with its own unique charm. From the Miami Beach Convention Center (MBCC) to the Venetian Marina to test drive the latest vessels at sea trials, there’s a maritime wonderland waiting for you at every stop. Other show locations include: the Progressive Boat Show Experience at Pride Park, Herald Plaza, Museum Park Marina, and SuperYacht Miami at Yacht Haven Grande Miami. Unleash the Adventure with 2-Day Passes Dive into our exclusive 2-Day passes, the golden

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

key to unlock all that the show has to offer. Whether you’re eyeing the latest in fishing or charting the course to explore the docks and enjoy over 100 food concessions and satellite bars sprinkled throughout the show, the 2-Day pass is your ticket to an extended celebration. Make sure to stop by the Stella Artois Beer Garden and Goslings Island Bar for a refreshing pause between the vessels up for exhibition. Looking to indulge in the luxury of the show’s Windward VIP experience? This year, the VIP passes are available at two exclusive locations – Herald Plaza and MBCC. Elevate your journey by securing tickets for one or both and enjoy premium perks that come with VIP status. Exclusive access to areas like Superyacht Miami is provided to Windward passholders. VIP ticket holders will also receive a complimentary one-day admission to Art Wynwood, Miami’s premier winter art fair, taking place Feb. 16-18. A Seamless Experience: From Water Taxis, Shuttles, Brightline Skip the traffic headaches by using the water taxi or the show’s bus shuttle network. Visiting from Orlando, Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Aventura? Hop on the Brightline and enjoy a complimentary shuttle to the show at Herald Plaza. Water taxi tickets require a separate purchase. As the excitement builds, the 2024 Miami International Boat Show invites you to embark on an unforgettable adventure. Celebrate the maritime lifestyle, cutting-edge technology, and the latest in personal boating and yachting. Secure your tickets by visiting miamiboatshow.com.

FEBRUARY 14-18 • MIAMIBOATSHOW.COM

ENTICE BIG TROUT WITH

ERRATIC ACTION PHOTO COURTESY OF KNOCKIN TAIL LURES®.

By Capt. Michael Okruhlik

common principle anglers abide by during winter months is to slow down their retrieve or presentation. Although this is a good default option, it may fail to entice strikes of those big, cold, winter trout. Let’s discuss. Some of my favorite lures for targeting trophy trout in the winter are those that suspend, slow sink, and have an erratic movement. When I

define a slow presentation, I am referencing the speed at which the lure moves toward the angler, the retrieve speed, not the motion. As a young angler, I was always told to slow down when it’s cold and then slow it down a little more. Although this has its place, it should not be set in stone, or ice if it’s really cold. OK, enough of the bad jokes. When trout are cold and may not be feeding

as aggressively as we would like, an extremely erratic motion can entice the strike. This erratic motion makes the lure dance in place with little to no forward movement. I use a rod with a whippy action for this. This allows me to point my rod tip at the lure and shake it up and down aggressively causing the lure to almost dance in place. I then let it pause, suspending or slow-sinking as I reel up the slack. I then repeat this practice, modifying according to the conditions. Fishing braided line is imperative for this method. The stretch in mono will not allow your slow-sinking lure to dance in place at the end of a long cast, but the zero stretch of braid makes it move like it is on a wire. I learned this the hard way 20 years ago. I was fishing with four friends, and I was the only one using mono and the only one not catching. I mimicked every move my buddy made to no avail. I then ask him to cast his lure and retrieve it near me. I watched it dance past with great action. I then cast my lure near him. Although I moved my rod more vigorously, he said my lure was moving in a straight line as if I was just reeling it in. I switched to braid on the next trip and never went back, and of course this dancing method started to produce fish! If you pay attention to the strike, this method will let you know if you should modify your retrieve. If they bite on the pause, you may want to slow it down a bit. If they bite on the shake, you may want to speed it up. I hope this helps you land more big trout this season. Good Luck! Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures®, and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com

Cast Lures in a Mitzi Tournament 17

Visit www.mitziskiffs.com for a Dealer Near You. 10 NATIONAL

JANUARY 2024

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

Impossib le Entire Bo Price x LESS TH For AN

Survive Just About Anything for Under $20

n any outdoor adventure, Mother Nature’s job is to present you with challenges. Some days she’s more demanding than others. And on those days, you’d better come prepared. The Stauer Survival Box is a near-guarantee you’ll be up to the challenge. The stainless steel multitool offers wire cutters, knife, bottle opener, file, a set of screwdrivers, a pair of pliers and much more. The powerful flashlight has three different settings, and the tactical loop watch is a reliable, water-resistant timepiece that clips to your hip and never leaves your side. All told, opening the Survival Box gives you instant access to nine different tools for JUST $19.50. Regularly sold for $99, we’re offering this collection of survival essentials to you for A FIFTH OF THE NORMAL PRICE! Why? Because we’ve had an incredible year and we feel like giving back to our valued customers. As this kit has proven to be one of our all-time best sellers, we can only extend this offer while supplies last. Of our initial run of 1,737, more than half have already sold. Your move, Mother Nature. Survival Box Specifications: • Multitool: 3 ¼" x 1" folded • Flashlight: 3 ½" x 1", 260 lumens, takes AA batteries (not included), three LED light modes: strong, medium and caution flashing • Watch: 2 ¾" x 1", battery type SR626SW (included) Survival Box $99 $19.50* + S+P Save $79.50 *You must use Insider Offer Code: SVB226-01 to get this price. California residents please call regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product.

1-800-333-2045

$20

Regularly priced at $99, take advantage of this special offer while supplies last!

Praise for Stauer’s Survival Box

 “[It] has everything!” — Carol T., Anaheim, CA

Box includes flashlight, watch and multitool with wire cutters, knife, bottle opener, file, screwdrivers, pliers and more!

Your Insider Offer Code: SVB226-01 Stauer, 14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. SVB226-01, Burnsville, MN 55337 www.stauer.com

AFFORD THE EXTRAORDINARY

By Capt. Jamie Thrappas

A BIG INSHORE SURPRISE!

t was a chilly winter morning, and my crew—a good friend Zach and his two sons—all knew it was going to be either a tough day or a great one. It was a typical morning for winter here in the Daytona, Fla. area, with overcast skies, highs in the low 60s and a dominant wind and swell headed from the northeast. The inshore bite is typically pretty good this time of year, with a variety of different species usually willing to cooperate. Red drum are a favorite backcountry target during the colder months. When they move up on the flats to feed, it can lead to good action on spoons and paddletails. On the end of the outgoing tide, we hoped to bag a few redfish before the switch, but the bite never happened. We kept busy with some small permit, pompano, mangrove snapper and even a flounder. By the time the tide switched mid-morning, the bite had slowed down with just a few small sheepshead taking our bait. Sheepshead are delicious, and around here the causeways of the Intracoastal along with barnacle- or oyster-encrusted docks, bridges and jetties are a pretty good bet for picking up a few for the cooler. They love sand fleas and fiddler crabs but will also eat shrimp on a jig head or Carolina rig. Something I like to do while targeting other species is to leave baits out for red or black drum. I had two dead stick bottom rods out the back soaking halved blue crabs in the hopes that a drum would be hungry enough to pick it up. With the action pretty slow, and while we still had some time left in the trip, I decided we should make a move. I told Zach’s younger son Gavin, who is an employee of mine at Yellow Dawg Bait & Tackle in Ormond Beach, to reel in the back rods that had been soaking. At first it looked like he had a snag as the rod bent when he picked it up, but then the drag took off. Big black drum are tanks! It’s almost like they have shoulders and they’ve been working out all week waiting for you. The big ugly that highlighted that trip was somewhere in the 50-plus-pound range, a trophy for sure! Gavin, who is the younger guy in the photo, will be in U.S. Coast Guard boot camp when this edition hits the racks. His dad, Zach, is a veteran, along with his other two sons Logan and Cameron. A big thanks to all the men and women out there who serve our country! Capt. Jamie Thrappas is Co-Publisher of Coastal Angler - Volusia County and owner of Yellow Dawg Fishing. Check out yellowdawgfishing.com. To win a free half-day inshore or offshore charter with Capt. Thrappas, enter the Fish with Coastal Angler drawing at coastalanglermag.com/contest.

CLEANS EVERYTHING.

PERIOD.

Clean, Waxes & Protects Glass, Lexan, Isinglass, Metal, Gelcoat, Fiberglass, Paint, Plastic & Rubber

Remove & Prevents Oxidation, Scuff Marks, Bird & Spider Poop, Fish Blood, Rust, Water & Exhaust Stains

Restores Gelcoat, Fiberglass, Metal, Plastic Windows & Rubber

USE CODE BOAT10 FOR 10% 0FF

www.koenigpolish.com • 1-877-843-9929 12 NATIONAL

JANUARY 2024

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

Fish With Coastal Angler! Win an Awesome Charter with Coastal Angler Mag's Volusia Co-Publisher and Capt. Jamie Thrappas and Yellow Dawg Fishing Charters!

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN, ENTER ONLINE AT:

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/CONTEST

Do you live in Florida? Do you have family or friends who live in Florida? Did you know you can help our oceans and estuaries? By purchasing one of these Specialty License Plates you can directly support critical scientific research, outreach and education! BUY YOUR PLATE TODAY AT YOUR LOCAL TAX COLLECTOR’S OFFICE OR ONLINE AT

hboifoundation.org/license-plates benefitting programs at

3545 Ocean Drive, Suite 201 ~ Vero Beach, FL 32963 772-466-9876 | www.hboifoundation.org Like us on Facebook!

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

JANUARY 2024

NATIONAL 13

The Alternative TheQuality Quality Alternative The Quality Alternative ToHigh HighCost Cost Fishing Fishing To Boats! To High Cost FishingBoats! Boats! The SeaEagle Eagle® ®FishSkiff FishSkiff™™ 16 Skiff The Sea 16Roll-Up Roll-UpFishing Fishing Skiff ®

™

Traditional fifishing shing boats boats are are great great way way to to get get to to the the fifish. sh. They They are are stable, stable, fast fast and and provide provide aa great great platform platform for for fifishing. shing. Traditional

Traditional shingproblem boats arecost. great way ato14get to the They fast andandprovide aonly great Thefionly only Buying or 15 15 footfififish. shing boatare canstable, cost $30,000 $30,000 that isis only theplatform beginning.for fishing. The problem isis cost. Buying a 14 or foot shing boat can cost and that the beginning. The only problem is cost. Buying a 14 or 15 foot fi shing boat can cost $30,000 and that is only Fuel, transportation and storage costs can add up to thousands of dollars more a year. Fuel, transportation and storage costs can add up to thousands of dollars more a year. the beginning. Fuel, transportation and storage costs can add up to thousands of dollars more a year.

The Sea Sea Eagle Eagle®® FishSkiff FishSkiff™™ 16 16 The ® ™ OffSea ersEagle True Quality Quality Alternative TheOff FishSkiff 16 ers AA True Alternative

Offers A True Quality Alternative

unique 16’ 16’long long skiff skiff that that motors motors up up to to AA unique 21 mph with a 10 hp outboard, holds 1, 2 or 3 anglers mph with 10 hp outboard, holds 1, A21unique 16’ along skiff that motors up2toor 3 anglers and costs costs only only aa few few dollars dollars in in gas gas to to motor motor all all day. day. and

21 mph with a 10 hp outboard, holds 1, 2 or 3 anglers and costs only a few dollars in gas to motor all day.

he FishSkiff FishSkiff features features 360° 360° swivel swivel seats seats giving giving you you aa TThe clear high high view view of of the the water. water. clear

The FishSkiff features 360° swivel seats giving you a

Now Featuring Featuring Now High Pressure Pressure Drop-Stitch Drop-Stitch Keel High Now Featuring Keel for precise precise steering steering and and superior superior motoring motoring for High Pressure Drop-Stitch Keel (U.S. Patent # 8,286,573 B2) (U.S. Patent # 8,286,573 B2)

for precise steering and superior motoring (U.S. Patent # 8,286,573 B2)

clear highgive view the water. ow gunwales gunwales give youofsuperb superb access to to the the water water for for LLow you access

landing && releasing releasing fifish sh and and getting getting on on && off off the the boat. boat. landing

Low gunwales give you superb access to the water for

ther features features include built-in sh the rulers, landing & releasing fish andinclude getting on & fifioff boat. OOther built-in sh rulers, multiple rod-holders, rod-holders, non-slip non-slip EVA EVA foot foot pad pad and and multiple convenient carry handles. carry handles. Other featuresconvenient include built-in fish rulers,

multiple rod-holders, non-slip EVA foot pad and he FishSkiff FishSkiff 16 16 takes takes only only few few inches inches draft, draft, TThe convenient carry handles. so fishing skinny waters is a dream. so fishing skinny waters is a dream.

TheBBecause FishSkiff 16 takes only fewbe draft, ecause packs small, can beinches taken on on deep lakes, lakes, itit packs small, itit can taken deep inland bays, widewaters rivers and and secluded harbors. soinland fishingbays, skinny is asecluded dream. harbors. wide rivers

Because it packs small, it can be taken on deep lakes, inland bays, wide rivers and secluded harbors.

16’ xx 54” 54” Infl Inflated ated •• 60” 60” xx 24” 24” xx 11” 11” Defl Deflated ated •• 16’ Weighs 95 95 lbs. lbs. for for hull hull && transom transom •• Weighs •• Low Low Profi Profile le 6” 6” Thick Thick Drop Drop Stitch Stitch Chambers Chambers •• Infl Inflates ates to to 15 15 psi psi Takes UpxTo To24” 10 xhp hp11” Motor • 16’ x 54” Inflated • 60” Deflated •• Takes Up 10 Motor • Motors Up To 21.5 mph To & 21.5 mph • Weighs 95• Motors lbs. forUp hull transom

• Low Profile 6” Thick Drop Stitch Chambers • Inflates to 15 psi • Takes Up To 10 hp Motor • Motors Up To 21.5 mph

800-944-7496 •• Dept. Dept. CS014B CS014B 800-944-7496

Go online online or or call call for for aa FREE FREE catalog catalog or or to to order order Go

800-944-7496 • Dept. CS014B

NO trailer trailer required!! required!! NO 16’ Boat Rolls up up 16’ Boat Rolls NO trailer required!! to fifitt in in aa bag bag in in your your trunk trunk to

16’ Boat Rolls up to fit in a bag in your trunk

ed!! kk up r trunk

Delayed Harvest Trout By Nick Carter

AT FIRES CREEK, N.C.

delayed harvest trout stream is a better place than most to spend a winter afternoon, and if you can find a two- or three-day warming trend, there’s a good chance you’ll get into some pretty good fishing. North Carolina’s Fires Creek has a 2-mile stretch of delayed harvest water on U.S. Forest Service land off U.S. 64 between Murphy and Hayesville. Rainbow, brown and brook trout are stocked in the creek and protected under catch-and-release, single-hook, artificial only regulations during the October into June delayed

harvest season. It’s a small-stream setting with more and bigger trout than one would find in most creeks this size. The creek is gorgeous, with clear plunge pools and deep bend runs sliding into skinny pocket water that twists for miles through the bottom of a rhododendron-choked valley. Even the rounded river rocks are notable for their beauty, with striking dark gray and tan bands that’ll make you want to stash a few flat stones in your vest to take home. The fishing is about like any other delayed

harvest in terms of fish size and the density of stockings, but it is a small stream, so you’ll be tempted to—and you should—explore your way upstream instead of settling in on the big holes. Small streams are just more fun when you fish them that way. Around each bend lies a new challenge, another series of pools and runs. Tightlining nymphs is probably the most effective way to fool fish this time of year. They might fall for the standard “junk flies,” but a few months into the DH season, the fish might also be looking for something more natural. In winter, the aquatic insects will be small. Little black stoneflies, midges and blue-winged olives might hatch off on a warm afternoon and lead to some dry fly action, but unless you see bugs in the air, you’re better off fishing subsurface imitations of these insects. A double-nymph rig with a big attractor nymph below a smaller more natural looking nymph is always a good option. The foot bridge at the Fires Creek Picnic Area is the lower boundary of the DH water. Access above the foot bridge is easy on a streamside trail and also along Fires Creek Wildlife Road. This gravel track parallels the creek way up into its headwaters. The delayed harvest ends at the Forest Service 340A bridge. Upstream of this point, the trout population trends toward stream-born rainbows that top out at 10 or 11 inches. For GPS coordinates to access points and detailed maps of North Carolina and Georgia’s best trout water, check out “Flyfishers Guide to North Carolina & Georgia.” It is available at fly shops, on Amazon, and signed copies are available from the author by e-mailing nsc8957@gmail.com.

The Return of a

Custom Built Quality Outdoor BBQ Products Since 1989

Pig Cookers, Patio Grills, Smokers, Customized BBQ Trailers

For More Info 1-252-236-4464 www.BQGRILLS.com 6043 Hwy 301N, Elm City, NC COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

JANUARY 2024

NATIONAL 15

A FEW THOUGHTS ON

SHEEPSHEAD By CAM Staff

heepshead have become a wintertime staple when water temps drop and the regular cast of inshore characters become more difficult to target. If you’re a cold-weather inshore angler, you’re probably already familiar with sheepshead, so here are a few tips you might not have heard yet. Finding Fish: Convict fish travel and feed in packs. Once you locate them, the action can be fast, but you have to find them first. Obviously, they like structure like bridges, docks and jetties, where they can happily gnaw on barnacles. When considering structure, older, rambling docks with lots of pilings provide more surface area for established colonies of crustaceans. These can be honeyholes, but keep moving if you’re not catching fish. You might run a dozen different structures in a day and catch 90 percent of your fish on one. In the clear water of winter, sheepshead can often be sight fished, and they don’t really spook, so look for them before casting. If the water is too dingy to see them, you can sometimes hear them crunching shells if you listen quietly. Chum ’Em Up: This might sound silly, but sheepshead get excited about free food just like any other species of fish. Keep a shovel on the boat and scrape barnacles off the structure you’re fishing. This rings the dinner bell, and it’ll also help you spot them as they dart around to pick off the falling morsels. Looking for scraped pilings is also a good way to identify where other anglers have chummed sheepies before. Play the Tides: Pretty much every fish feeds best on a moving tide, but a ripping flow can be detrimental when fishing for such a structure oriented fish. Fast moving water tends to pin sheepshead right up against structure. This, and the tide itself, can make presenting baits more difficult. Find a moderate tide, and

sheepshead will spread out and move around a little more, which makes them easier to catch. Position yourself up-current and allow your baits to drift down into the fish. The Business End: Although they are not skittish, sheepshead can be selective. Whether you’re fishing fiddler crabs, shrimp tails, sand fleas, oysters or clams, use a small, short-shank hook and hide it inside your bait. Also, fish braided line. Braid has less stretch, so those little bumps when a sheepshead taps your bait translate better to the rod tip. Braid also has better abrasion resistance for when they pull you around a piling, but the increased sensitivity is key. With their black and white bars, convicts are notorious bait thieves. You need to know it the instant they suck in your bait.

SPECIALIZING IN RESTORATION OF AGED, SUNBURNT, OR FADED LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAYS.

WE SERVICE MORE THAN JUST GAUGES! CHART PLOTTERS, VHF’S, RADARS, SOUNDERS, AUTOPILOTS, JET SKI CLUSTERS, AND MUCH MORE.

904-701-9726 • GAUGESAVER.COM 5049 HIGHWAY 17 SOUTH, GREEN COVE SPRINGS, FL 32043

16 NATIONAL

JANUARY 2024

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

If your device has an LCD that has faded over time, or want to inquire about possible repair options for your unit, give us a call or visit our website!

Flip Flip Hooray!

A perfect symbol of fun in the sun for only $79

ere’s a memorable beach moment: You’re basking in the warm sun, toes in the sand, letting the gentle turn of the foam-capped waves lull you into a state of complete relaxation. As your eyes scan the endless horizon of blue on blue, you’re rewarded with a school of dolphins making their way across the sea. There’s no denying their signature shape as they leap from the water. If you don’t see anything else extraordinary the rest of the day, you can take solace knowing you’ve witnessed one of nature’s most playful and intelligent creatures in their natural habitat. Why not re-create that special toes-in-the-sand moment with our Blue Topaz Dolphin Pendant? The beloved sea mammal has been captured mid-jump in sterling silver. And, tucked into its fins is a full two carats of shimmering blue topaz. Nothing captures the shimmering color of the ocean in the midday sun like blue topaz. With its sparkling clear blue color and high refractive index, blue topaz is one of the top-selling blue gemstones. And with our special price, you have quite the catch.

Satisfaction guaranteed or your money back. Enjoy the Blue Topaz Dolphin Pendant for 30 days. If it doesn’t pass the test swimmingly, send it back for a full refund of the item price.

A full two carats of shimmering blue topaz set in sterling silver

Limited Reserves. A full two carats of genuine blue topaz set in sterling silver for this price is as rare as a dolphin sighting. We cannot guarantee availability for long. Call today!

Limited to the first 1900 responders to this ad only! To show exquisite details, pendant shown is not exact size. Chain sold separately.

“Enormously popular, significantly intelligent and scientifically sophisticated, dolphins are amidst the most beloved animals among people.” — Dolphins-World

 “This sterling silver dolphin is absolutely beautiful and the blue topaz is like the color of the ocean”

— Vivian, Cabool, MO

† Special price only for customers using the offer code versus the price on Stauer.com without your offer code.

Blue Topaz Dolphin Pendant non-offer code price $395 † Offer Code Price Only $79 + S&P Save $316! You must use the insider offer code to get our special price.

1-800-333-2045

Your Insider Offer Code: DPP349-03 Please use this code when you order to receive your discount.

14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. DPP349-03, Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com

• 2 ctw blue topaz; ½ ctw The Ultimate Diamond Alternative®, DiamondAura® • .925 sterling silver setting • Sterling silver chain sold separately

Stauer… Afford the Extraordinary.®

Rating of A+

SAVOR THE SEASONS in Upcountry South Carolina

Every season is the best season to explore the many treasures in the Upcountry.

A N D E R S O N  C H E RO K E E  G R E E N V I L L E  O C O N E E  P I C K E N S  S PA R TA N BU R G

Perfectly Seasoned

FishUpcountrySC.com 864-233-2690