Coastal Angler Magazine | April 2022 | Tidewater, VA/Outer Banks, NC Edition

TIDEWATER, VA/OUTER BANKS, NC EDITION

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BIG FISH IN LITTLE PLASTIC BOATS

PELAGIC HUNTING TOOLS

DOWNSIZE FOR INSHORE ACTION VOLUME 27 • ISSUE 325

PHOTO COURTESY OF JUSTIN HOOVER IG: @REDFISHING321 / YOUTUBE: THE BACKWATER ANGLER

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APRIL 2022

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SIGHT FISHING

By Nick Carter

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“It’s about as close to Florida as you can get. You’re nglers are drawn to SUPs for many reasons. For Justin Hoover, the allure immersed in the mangroves,” Hoover said. “Most of a paddleboard is the style of fishing it of the time I’m alone for 10 or 12 hours a day on a paddleboard because nobody can reach where I’m at. allows.

Hoover is from Brevard County, Florida. The fish… they’ve never seen people. It makes it really For more than 30 years, he has explored easy for me, and it makes it really enjoyable.”

Hoover only targets fish he sees and studies their the backwaters and flats of central Florida’s Atlantic coast, where big fish push into super body language before making a cast. He can tell by skinny water that’s inaccessible to conventional looking if a fish is likely to eat his lure, particularly redfish, which clamp down their fins and “snake” along boats.

“There’s nothing else better. It’s literally the shoreline when they’re actively feeding.

“I’m looking for wakes, pushes, busts on the hunting, almost by foot,” he said of his passion. “I draft 2 inches. It makes it easier to travel to places shoreline and tails. If I’m not seeing any of that or you can’t reach, especially those back areas where seeing something that gives me that feeling there could big redfish will go back and pretty much retire for be a fish in this pocket, I’m moving on,” he said.

Covering water quickly is Hoover’s primary tactic. the rest of their life.”

Hoover’s platform of choice is a LIVE He advised newcomers to the sport to keep moving.

“Cover the ground. That’s the easiest way to catch Watersports L2Fish board. It is a 12-foot catamaranstyle SUP that is super quiet and stable. He is a fish,” he said. “Don’t get stuck in one spot on a certain minimalist in terms of gear, preferring to hit the group of fish. Just constantly keep moving. You’ll end water with just a pocket full of lures, three rods up finding that fish that’s going to bite.”

His favorite targets are redfish, snook, tarpon and and a cooler that serves as a seat and dry storage.

He does most of his fishing with a medium-light black drum.

“When I go out, all of them are on the list,” Hoover spinning rod and also carries a heavy spinning rod in case he sees a really big fish as well as a fly said. “I’m going down the line. I’m going straight to rod for subtle presentations. The lures he fishes their house, knocking on the door and saying, ‘Hey, are are mostly ultra-realistic Chasebaits soft plastics. you hungry today?’ If not, then I’m moving on to the He rarely throws topwater because the water is next fish.”

It sounds like a lot of fun. so shallow that fish can’t get an angle on surface baits.

Check out Justin Hoover on Facebook, Instagram and watch his Youtube channel The Backwater Angler.

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Suzuki Unveils New V6 for Performance Boats S uzuki Marine previewed the new flagship of its SS (Sport Series) motors at the Bassmaster Classic in March. This new engine, the DF250SS V6 4-Stroke, is a high-performance outboard engineered to deliver extra kick for today’s performance-based boats. It is sized and designed for bass boats, bay boats and shallowwater applications.

New for 2022, the DF250ATSS is the first SS Series outboard to feature compatibility with Suzuki’s state-of-the-art Suzuki Precision Control (SPC) electronic shift and throttle system that will integrate with Suzuki’s Digital Pro-Pedal Foot Throttle. Suzuki SS outboards were created to bring powerful hole shot, strong mid-range pull and great fuel economy to anglers and boaters.

Now, by integrating with Suzuki’s proven SPC system, boaters can add crisp, responsive shifting, silky smooth acceleration and sports car-like operation to the mix.

In addition to Suzuki’s SPC integration, the new DF250SS features a new lower unit gear case with an asymmetrically designed skeg. This new design slices through the water efficiently for improved performance, while providing enhanced steering stability. Inside this streamlined case are powerful gears for delivering plenty of low-end torque and the ability to swing a larger propeller.

More options include the newly updated intake system, the updated Thrust Mount system to reduce engine vibration and deliver stable operation under high loads, and a new line of Watergrip propellers designed to enhance overall performance.

The new Suzuki Big-Block V6 engine design ensures that the DF250ATSS not only delivers exhilarating hole shot, but also eye-watering acceleration all the way to wide-open throttle.

Today’s premium performance boats need to look as good as they perform, and the new DF250SS also includes a new revised cowling design that features additional louvers, upper cover grips and new updated “SS” graphics.

Suzuki continues with the popular Matte Black color as well as Suzuki’s optional new White. It is available in 20” (L) and 25” (XL) shaft lengths to accommodate different boat styles.

In addition to the new DF250ATSS model, Suzuki is also adding a new 115hp SS outboard for 2022. Suzuki’s new DF115SS outboard is ideal for smaller bass boats, aluminum fishing boats, flats skiffs and other vessels that need high performance with light weight. With this latest inline 4-cylinder model added to the line-up, Suzuki Marine now offers a range of high-performance SS Series outboards in 115hp, 200hp and 250hp.

Like all Suzuki 4-stroke outboards, these new SS Series models are backed by the company’s leading 5-Year Limited Factory Warranty, providing anglers with the ultimate in confidence and security.

To learn more about the new 250hp and 115hp additions to Suzuki’s popular SS Series family— or the company’s complete line of technically advanced 4-stroke outboards from 2.5 to 350 horsepower — contact Suzuki Marine USA headquarters at (813) 687-7200 or visit www.suzukimarine.com.

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APRIL 2022

NATIONAL 7

BIG FISH Kayak Catch & Release

Y

ou’ve done it! Thousands of casts, dozens of early alarms, countless cups of coffee, and now there’s a monster fish on the hook, and from your kayak, no less! It’s a feat to be proud of.

However, if you plan on releasing that fish, your attention should soon turn to proper handling techniques, which ensure safety for you and the fish. A sprinkle of chaos is expected when bringing a big fish into a small, plastic boat, but a few easy steps can ensure the fish goes home safely.

1. Keep Them Wet! Regardless of species, once you’ve netted or attached lip-grips to a fish, keep them in the water as much as possible. This is always true if you need to set up a camera, grab pliers or lay out a measuring board, and it’s especially important in summer months, when release mortality increases due to warmer water. I prefer to use lip grips on bigger catches, since it mitigates the need to untangle a large, fired up fish from a net.

Storing commonly used tools nearby is also key, particularly in a kayak where space is limited.

Once you’re set up, it’s time for a photo or a measurement!

:

By Matt Stone

2. Holding Techniques If there’s one thing anglers universally love, it’s the “hero shot.” You know, the one where you and maybe your buddy grin widely while posing with a monster catch. I’m a big fan of hero shots, and of taking them properly.

Handling the fish safely is key here, and that means keeping hands away from their gills, holding them horizontally and supporting their belly. Never weigh big fish vertically on a scale. This point is often debated in angling circles, and I respect both schools of thought, but I go with horizontal holds because I think the photos come out better. With length and girth measurements, you can figure out a rough weight, anyway. Now, smile big and grab that picture… and no straight-arming!

3. Respect and Revive Properly reviving big catches is important. It ensures continuity of strong genetics, allows a future angler a chance at the same fish, and it simply feels good knowing you’ve encountered an incredible animal and returned it home safely.

Face the fish into current, open its mouth, and if possible, pedal or paddle your kayak to get water flowing over their gills. Revival can take anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes. A fish is ready to go when it raises its dorsal spines and lightly clamps onto your hand, or straight up kicks off and swims away like a rocket. If you don’t already emphasize this process, I encourage you to not only take revival time, but to enjoy it! Thank the fish, watch them swim off and get casting again!

Everyone should have a process for catch-and-release fishing. Above all, if you plan on releasing a fish, show it respect and reverence for the experience it has given you.

Matt Stone is a teacher from Chester, Conn. and a pro staffer for Old Town and Daiwa as well as a member of the Black Hall Outfitters Fishing Team.

Check him out on Instagram @sunrisekayakfishing.

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APRIL 2022

NATIONAL 9

YAMAHA 210 FSH

T

here’s something unmistakably cool about the iconic design of center console boats. They are the sports utility vehicle of the boating world.

Yamaha’s 210 FSH center console boats are a modern take on the classic center console design, focusing on greater versatility made possible by Yamaha’s patented jet-drive technology.

Unlike other center console brands with outboard motors that dominate the stern, the 210’s dual engines and driveline are housed in the hull underneath the captain’s leaning post, providing a true 360-degree experience perfect for fishing. And because no outboard motor lower units are protruding under the boat, the shallow draft can get you in and out of places that other center console boats can’t access.

These boats include all the features fishing enthusiasts require as well as family features perfect for an entire day out on the water to include watersports, swimming and lounging – all in the same boat and at a competitive price starting under $46,000.

The 210 FSH is available in two variations, the 210 FSH Deluxe and 210 FSH Sport.

The 210 FSH Deluxe comes with wiring for dual batteries, stainless steel rub-rail, head compartment curtain, a trolling motor mount, and premium seating/cushions. The 210 FSH Sport comes with Deluxe features and the addition of a custom T-top.

Both models come with Yamaha’s award-winning TR-1 High Output marine engines.

Located under the starboard bow seat is an insulated fish locker, and there is a dedicated locker for a full-size Danforth anchor. There is more storage below the port bow seat, in the sole, and inside two large consoles.

In front of the helm console is more seating, and the console lifts to reveal an extra deep, large storage area that can also serve as a changing room or a head compartment.

The helm is thoughtfully designed with convenient access to all boat control switches, a locking glove box, and an open area to flush mount electronics such as a fishfinder, a GPS unit and other marine electronics.

The 210 FSH comes equipped with Yamaha’s 4.3-inch Connext Touchscreen Display, which is NMEA compatible to send vital engine information to third-party electronics.

The transom area on the FSH Series is unlike any other center console

10 NATIONAL

APRIL 2022

SPECIFICATIONS Yamaha 210 FSH LENGTH: 21’ 3” WEIGHT: 3,003 lbs.

BEAM: 8’ 6” DRAFT: 17” DEADRISE: 20 degree SEATING CAPACITY: 10 FUEL CAPACITY: 50 Gallons boat on the market. Since the engine and drive train are mounted in the hull, the entire back of the boat is open for unobstructed casting, towing and enjoying activities at the stern. Moreover, the boat’s leaning post is convertible and can be flipped back toward the helm for added comfort and versatility.

The 210 FSH features Yamaha’s signature two-tier swim platform that sits low at the water’s edge. A retractable stern ladder makes reboarding after swimming a breeze. The transom also includes a tow eye for watersports.

And like all Yamaha boats, the 210 FSH features Yamaha’s patented clean-out ports that allow for removing debris from the jet pump without having to get in the water or swim under the boat.

VISIT WWW.YAMAHABOATS.COM TO LEARN MORE.

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APRIL 2022

NATIONAL 11

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TIDEWATER / OUTER BANKS

APRIL 2022

PUBLISHER & EDITOR BRENDA RIGGS MIKE RIGGS Co-publishers & Editors

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS J. JIM JIM AARON JOHN SCOTT JAKE

ANDRE BAUGH DAVISON KELLY TIGER REPPERT WORTHINGTON

GRAPHIC DESIGN JENNY DIAZ

CONTACT INFORMATION For editorial comments, articles, photography, artwork and all other inquiries please contact:

BRENDA RIGGS brenda@coastalanglermagazine.com

757.409.7518 MIKE RIGGS mriggs@coastalanglermagazine.com

757.681.5001

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

APR. 2022

TIDEWATER & THE OUTER BANKS 1

OBX

By Aaron Kelly

INSHORE

Looking very promising this spring! We are already seeing schools of slot sized reds on the flats. Numbers have been impressive and I hope they lounge around all summer long!!!

Tossing 1/4 jigs has been working the best. Of course, fresh cut bait and Johnson weedless spoons are great bets as well!

There should be some piggy speckle trout showing up as well.

Could be a very special summer for some big trout! Maybe we will see a few lucky angers eclipse the 7-8 pound mark!

Oceanside we should see some big drum. Albecore, ribbonfish, seabass and of course how could I forget... sharks! Spinner, blacktip, spiny, smooth, whitedotter, and dusky sharks just to name a few. So, there is plenty of potential action out there. Offshore the bluefin should have moved out. Yellowfin and bigeye tuna should be on your offshore aficionados grill this month. Maybe you will get the invite, or better yet, go get your own tuna! We are blessed with a plethora of well-equipped charter boats and Uber experienced captains. Come on out and try your luck this April!

Capt. Aaron Kelly rocksolidfishing.com 252-441-657

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APR. 2022

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THE FLYING FISHERMAN

By J. Andre

OPENING DAY Back in my childhood, the only day that approached with the same anticipation as Christmas was the opening day of trout season, the Third Saturday of April. As young as I was back then, I had a few season openers under my belt. The entire week before the celebrated day was spent in preparation. First, we dug worms from the historically well-known worm patches around the chicken coop. If the early harvest was scarce, we even made a few exploratory digs in Ma’s flower gardens. This would be a daily occurrence right up until that last Friday night.

Fresh 6-pound test line went on the reel even if it was a brand new reel that came with a filled spool - it couldn’t be trusted. A fresh supply of #6 and #8 hooks were purchased, along with the smallest split shot sinkers obtainable. Tackle boxes were usually shunned as too cumbersome to carry while peddling one’s bike to the stream. All the necessary accessories found in a tackle box could be stuffed strategically in pockets of pants, shirts, and jackets. I’m sure this is what led to those large, pocketed fishing clothes you see manufactured today. We were well ahead of our time.

The final Friday night was spent going over the last-minute checks. My bike was readied with 30 pounds of air in each tire. A flat tire on departure would be a disaster. Final worm selection was made. Only the largest, firmest worms got to participate. They went into a can and then took their place in the refrigerator beside the milk to ensure freshness. Forgetting your worms was mortal sin itself. Finally, the fishing rod was studied like a Samurai inspecting his Katana before the battle. It was placed by the bed. I could now sleep, but it was irrelevant whether sleep actually occurred that night.

RRRINGGG!!! What? RRRINGGG!!! YIPES, it was time to go! I fumbled, trying to turn off the two alarm clocks. I was in automatic mode from when my feet touched the floor until I ran out the door. As I looked back at the house while pedaling 40 mph down the driveway, I was surprised to see all the lights in the house turned on so early in the morning. Was everyone else getting up as well? The 300-yard bike ride down to the stream seemed to take forever. I spied that my spot was still open upon arrival, but a dozen-tired fisherman had already gathered close by. It wouldn’t be too long, and there would be 25 or 30 fishermen rubbing shoulders for a position.

Legal fishing didn’t begin until 06:00.

The tension was growing. At 05:45, folks removed their hook from a rod’s line guide.

We all looked through our worm cans and selected the best-looking worm that naturally was hiding at the bottom of the can. Old Wally worm was carefully skewered onto the small trout hook with the skill of a surgeon, being ever so careful to hide the hook from the prying eyes of the trout.

At 05:50, the baited hook was put at the ready 12” below the tip eye of the rod. Then Game Warden Bob Lowery made his annual speech, “Okay boys, just ten more minutes. Let’s have a nice clean opener today - no jump starts.

I’ll let you know when you can start fishing.”

As if on cue, Percy Fiddlefellow (not his real name) exclaimed, “Whoops!” He fumbled his rod and dropped the rod tip into the water. The starving stocked trout didn’t know that they still had 8 minutes to go, so they instantly clobbered one of Percy’s favorite flies even though the hatch for that particular fly was still three months away. Percy was hooked up and trying to untangle the loops of line he had in his left hand. Seeing someone already hooked up caused a few other fishermen to prematurely jump the gun. More and more trout were splashing about.

Those few law-abiding souls looked up at Warden Bob for deliverance.

Bob finally cried, “Have at it, gentlemen. Every year it’s the same old thing. I don’t have a jail big enough to lock you all up. The season has begun. Good luck and try not to hurt each other.”

Is it still the same, I wonder? Are there still youngsters who long to get dirty and smell fish slime?

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

APR. 2022

TIDEWATER & THE OUTER BANKS 3

Jake’s Outdoor Adventures

S

pring is in the air here on the Outer Banks and the fishing season is starting to heat up. If you have stopped by the Oregon Inlet Fishing Center (OIFC), you can see that we are working on great improvements that will help make the Oregon Inlet Fishing Center a premier destination on the Outer Banks. So far, the charter boat slips have been dredged out. The fuel shack and air compressor station have been torn down and site work has been started on the new expanded parking lot on the east side of the property. Also, the footings for the new building will be started. If you visit the OIFC during the next year, please be aware of these projects and just remember progress means there will be some chaos during the construction and remodeling phase. 2022 will be the beginning of a new era for the OIFC and these growing pains won’t last long. We will all be enjoying the benefits of this rebirth of a world-famous destination. As always, you can check the website to see the progress by clicking on the live feed cameras. Also remember while this rebuilding is going on, our fishing fleets will still be running every day as always and you can come out and watch the fleet unload their catches of the day. Come out and see us and stop by The Pelican to say hi.

4 TIDEWATER & THE OUTER BANKS

APR. 2022

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

By Jake Worthington

Over the last few years, the Outer Banks has experienced a curveball thrown at us due to COVID, and this year will be no different. At the time I am writing this article, our COVID numbers are in a deep decline but, unfortunately, we are experiencing high inflation, supply chain disruptions and high fuel prices. If you book a charter, you will be paying more in the way of increased charter prices or fuel charges. Charter boats burn a great deal of diesel heading over 40 or more miles offshore and back. Diesel at the time of this writing is just over $5.00 a gallon!! On top of that, the oil needed for oil changes has also gone up in price, and this is what is causing these price increases. Add to that, higher prices for hydraulic fluid, filters and parts are causing an increase in charter prices. I am sure no matter where you are coming from, you will understand the inflation is not geographical but everywhere across the country. None of us knows how long this will last and unfortunately, some of these price increases will probably remain with us in the future.

Jake Worthington is is a graduate of NC State University and has fished on the Outer Banks for two decades.

Jake Worthington 800-272-5199.

First Mate, Pelican Sportfishing Charters out of Oregon Inlet Fishing

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APR. 2022

TIDEWATER & THE OUTER BANKS 5

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WHO TRAINS THE TECHS?: CDI Outboard Technician Training 2022

By John Tiger

T

oday’s outboarding world is a complex mix of new and older tech.

Modern four-stroke and direct-injected two-stroke outboards require a laptop and program to identify trouble codes, much the same as your truck or car, to help technicians decipher problems when your engine won’t run properly. But older engines—those two and four-stroke engines built in the 1970s, 80s, 90s and early 2000s—can’t be diagnosed with modern tools like laptops. They require old-fashioned knowledge and know-how, and technical training from manufacturers.

THE WAY IT USED TO BE Some of the best memories for this writer in my youth were attending OMC Johnson/Evinrude and Mercury training schools and seminars back in the 1980s.

The engine manufacturers offered classroom training and even “live” running engine troubleshooting in their courses, typically at least 5 days long and packed with information.

There was really no substitute for these courses; as a technician, you gained valuable information, handson training, and best of all, time spent with the instructors soaking in as much knowledge as your brain would handle. Personally, I gained many lifelong friendships both with the instructors, and with other techs attending the classes. One instructor in particular was so effective for me that we remain good friends today (going on 42 years!), and his relentless quest for knowledge and perfection had a lasting impact in everything I do today, especially when it comes to outboard service, troubleshooting, repair and rigging.

FAST FORWARD But where does a technician go today for training? Most outboard manufacturers still offer training, but it’s condensed and packaged—not as involved or beneficial as it used to be. Community colleges and specialized, focused training schools such as MMI (Marine Mechanics Institute) offer very in-depth training, but these are many months long and require a long-term commitment for placement, housing and tuition.

That’s akin to a trade school, so it’s not a fit for everyone.

CDI ELECTRONICS CDI Electronics is a company founded back in the early 1980s, previously known as Rapair. Specializing in the manufacture of aftermarket replacement ignition and electrical components for outboards, they’ve built a business and reputation of integrity and excellence in the outboard engine service marketplace.

Techs “in the know” have used CDI products for decades. Today, CDI is often the only source for any replacement parts, especially for older or 6 TIDEWATER & THE OUTER BANKS

APR. 2022

lower volume production engines.

CDI’s commitment to the outboard technician is evident in their product quality and reliability, but also in their attention to detail. Their parts come with complete installation guides as well as helpful troubleshooting guide and tips. This is invaluable, especially if working on an engine not familiar to you or your shop.

CDI TRAINING In early February, this writer attended CDI’s three-day Outboard Ignition and Electrical Troubleshooting and Training Course at their headquarters and factory in Huntsville, Alabama. CDI’s second session this year, it was well attended with dealers and techs from Alabama, Texas, Missouri, New York, Minnesota and Kentucky. The course was just what the doctor ordered, for this old mechanic; three days of classroom instruction and live engine troubleshooting was very involved, very thorough, and highly worthwhile.

Having not attended a factory training class since 1990, it was sorely needed.

WORTH EVERY MINUTE CDI realizes there are precious few training opportunities today. Without training on how to troubleshoot ignition and electrical problems with the proper meters and tools, a tech is just guessing—“replacing parts” to try to find and solve the problem with a customer’s engine. This costs extra time and money, and many times doesn’t solve the real problem—which may cause repeated part failures. The training is based on repeatable procedures— to get the technician to follow the same or similar procedures, testing all components, until the issue is found and resolved. This ingrains good habits that the tech can carry on for a lifetime. CDI Electronics | Outboard Motor Parts | Ignitions | Marine Engine Diagnostic System | Stators | Ignition Packs | Regulators | Coils | Wiring Harnesses

John Tiger, a recognized expert in high performance boat setup, rigging and driving, outboard repair and trailer towing, John’s boating and racing experience has helped him write popular columns such as Outboard Tech and Seat Time as well as many hundreds of feature stories.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

SPRING IS HERE

By Capt. Jim Davison, Miss Disturbed Sportfising

I

don’t know about you but for me winter has been here way too long. With having snow just this past weekend I am so ready for Spring. Spring brings getting things ready to go. So, lets talk a little about my routine.

First thing I like to do is get the boat ready and that takes the greatest amount of time and energy. The first thing I do is the spring maintenance on the engines. I have a planned maintenance program for each engine and specific things I do each spring so nothing is overlooked. Some of the items I cover are, lower unit oil, spark plugs, water pump, main fuel filter, engine fuel filter, VST filter and grease all the fittings. After the engines are done, I like to put the freshwater system in service. I flush all lines until the pink winterizing fluid is gone and there is no smell of it. After that I like to fill the tank and add a couple teaspoons of bleach to the tank. Now for the fun part. I like to do a good cleaning bow to stern then wax everything. If you start your year off with a good waxing you will be glad you did. This makes cleanups after fishing so much easier. After waxing I inspect all zincs and replace if needed.

The last thing I do to the boat is bottom paint. I do a touch up on odd years and a paint on even years. Now with the boat complete don’t forget about the trailer if you have one. I like to inspect everything and replace if it’s worn or rusted. I also like to make sure the bearings are lubed up good and all lights are working. Now, if you are like me, all the tackle is all ready to go because we have spent all winter getting it ready. If not, now is the time to get the reels ready to go with a good cleaning and line change if needed. I also like to take the reels off the rods and clean the reel seats and put a little reel seat lube on.

The last thing I do is get my tackle separated by inshore and offshore. After all that is done its time to wait out mother nature and water temps. I hope everyone has a safe and fun fishing season. Hope to see ya out there this year.

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APR. 2022

TIDEWATER & THE OUTER BANKS 7

TIDEWATER / OUTER BANKS

CATCHIN’& COOKIN’ JIM’S SATURDAY NIGHT SPECIAL

JIM BAUGH’S RECIPE OF THE MONTH

Ok…this one is guaranteed to please your company and I have featured this dish on many a Saturday night. First up get 100 Eastern Shore Virginia clams, two pounds of shrimp, 4 onions, 4 cloves garlic, a bunch of fresh parsley, a bottle of white wine, and 1 stick of butter.

In a large sauté pan or Dutch Oven, melt the butter and add 2 cups of white wine and fresh garlic.

Next, after washing the clams thoroughly place them in the pot cover until they just slightly pop open. Then add the onion, fresh lemons, and shrimp. Cover for 10 minutes.

Serve in the Dutch Oven with some nice Italian bread on the side.

The best!

IS YOUR BOAT READY?

by Jim Baugh reporting from Oyster Farm at Kings Creek, Cape Charles VA April is THE month to finalize things in the “Get your boat ready department.” You do not want to be dry docked this June when the Cobia and Reds kick off !

Be sure to check the batts, impellers, may be time for that preseason oil change and, of course, inspect all pumps and make sure all wiring is secured.

Not a bad idea to spiff up your canvas and throw a couple of coats of wax on your beauty. If you’re trailering, a good trailer inspection is also a good idea. When was the last time the bearings were checked? I have in the past experienced a faulty bearing while under tow with a 21-foot boat. This was not a pleasurable trip we ended on the side of the road and lucky we did not flip the van. Don’t forget trailer maintenance! This should be a great boating and fishing season and look forward to seeing you folks on the water.

We have a NEW Nightscape on display in Virginia Beach at HK On the Bay. This is an awesome new star trail composition composed of over 400 exposures. Stop by and check it out and have some dinner as well. Our Nightscape Gallery is at jimbaughnightscapes.blogspot.com you can also scan the QR Code below. These metal prints look amazing and were filmed from the Eastern Shore, Virginia Beach, and Roanoke, Virginia. If you are on the Eastern Shore, stop into the Lemon Tree Gallery in Cape Charles and see our Nightscapes on display. Free delivery to the Eastern Shore and Virginia Beach. We also have new larger prints! Now offering 16x24 and 20x30 metal prints!

Book now! Contact the Oyster Farm for beautiful accommodations and enjoy the awesome dining at the Seafood Eatery. No doubt the best view of the Chesapeake Bay and Kings Creek. For more info and to book marina slips and accommodations (Or boat and RV Storage) just visit www. theoysterfarmatkingscreek.com Jim Baugh, Jimbaugh.net, Jim Baugh Outdoors TV For more updates on our fishing trips and latest shows log on to: https://jimbaughoutdoors.blogspot.com/ for updates on everything, digital prints gallery, etc. Jim Baugh Outdoors TV Amazon Prime Video https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B07Z9S825F/ref=atv_ dp_share_cu_r JBOTV Online Hubb: https://jimbaugh.blogspot.com/

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APR. 2022

TIDEWATER & THE OUTER BANKS 9

M&J Tops Canvas and boat upholstery M&J Tops LLC, specializes in marine upholstery.

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PARTING WATERS

LIKE NO OTHER INNOVATION DRIVES SUZUKI ON THE WATER Unparalleled throttle response and silky-smooth shifting along with the outboard industry’s first Contrarotating Dual–Prop design, the 350hp outboard is in a class of it’s own. With Suzuki Marine’s reputation for performance and reliability, you can rest assured your boating day is going to make memories that will last for years to come.

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5 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY applies to qualifying purchases of Suzuki outboard motors sold and delivered to the retail purchaser, for pleasure (non-commercial) use only, from April 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022.

See Suzuki Limited Warranty for additional details. Suzuki, the “S” logo, and Suzuki model and product names are Suzuki Trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2022 Suzuki Marine USA, LLC. All rights reserved.

“The Lonely Doctor traverses off a beaten path, onto the road less traveled. Despite the uneven, sad, and often dangerous trail, nothing breaks the Lonely Doctor’s persevering march, for the quest is noble. Mission work is a deeply human experience. The journey is a lonely one as it is often very personal. It all starts from within. A single step. A pair of hands. Along the way, every step taken inspires another and multiplies the pair of hands as others rally behind the Doctor’s benevolent mission.”

The founding of Montero Medical Missions in July 2011, is epitomized in our new MMM logo. Based in Chesapeake, Virginia, USA, its mission and vision are to combine the humanitarian efforts of a medical missioner and that of a Peace Corps volunteer. This was accomplished through the creation of sustainable healthcare projects, both domestic and international.

On the domestic front, its innovative Health Fair for Veterans project was recognized by the American College of Surgeons at its 100th Clinical Congress in October 2013, by having the MMM Abstract Project Presentation displayed alongside academic

institutions’ posters. Currently, MMM is in partnership with the Alaska Battle Dawgs’ camp clinic involved in naturopathic healing of veterans with TBI and PTSD diagnoses through the addition of MMM Prosthetic, Eyesight 20/20, Dental Care projects plus HBOT chamber availability. MMM Educate the Children and Technology Donation projects always elicit grateful accolades from the recipient Elementary Schools and Foundations in the Philippines. This year’s Philippines Presidential Award ‘Kaanib ng Bayan’ is most welcome.

Since its inception, MMM continues to exist despite having no salaried employees, developing its mission work through fundraising activities plus careful strategic volunteerism relationships and partnerships with humanitarian corporations, foundations, and service organizations. Our domestic project has recently been focused on the Dental Care and Treatment of veterans in need, in partnership with the Chesapeake Care Clinic Dental Division. The new partnership this year with Alaska Battle Dawgs will expand our fundraising efforts, now concentrated on the patriotic 1st Annual Parade of Boats and Fish Fry in Virginia Beach on Sunday, May 29, 2022. One hundred percent of the net proceeds are to benefit the 650 acres camp clinic in Talkeetna, Alaska where our ailing veterans will have options to different therapies such as salmon fly-fishing, music, art, etc. and the standard medical treatment to be anchored by Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy. We welcome everyone’s participation in all MMM fundraising activities, especially at this unique, fun Parade of Boats/Fish Fry in whatever capacity and means. We owe it to our veterans and to those whose ultimate sacrifice bravely protected and gave us the freedoms we dearly treasure.

Montero Medical Missions is fortunate to be an international humanitarian organization with an exceptional continuing domestic presence, serving mainly our veterans with healthcare needs. Our future plan other than an infusion of Philippines multiple projects/programs is to establish sustainable healthcare projects with a foothold in Romania for Eastern Europe, Zambia for Africa, Paraguay for South America, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, and the Caribbean region.

Connections are already in place. We are at the mercy of when the pandemic dust settles and safety is assured. Above all, it boils down to when MMM has enough funds to send our volunteers with expertise in the projects to be started.

Our biggest asset is having connections in the United States with healthcare professionals of any expertise needed by the country we serve. Most importantly, we encourage and welcome MMM donors and supporters to join us in our mission work, as ambassadors of goodwill for Uncle Sam. It is very rewarding. MMM Projects at this YouTube link: http:// youtu.be/klTmtA3kg6g

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APR. 2022

TIDEWATER & THE OUTER BANKS 13

TIDEWATER & OUTER BANKS BRAG BOARD SEND YOUR GREAT FISHING & HUNTING PHOTOS TO BRENDA@COASTALANGLERMAGAZINE.COM

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Mae, age 5, Bass

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PIC OF THE MONTH

[ 4] [ 2]

Matti Sorey age 12 - Two birds with 1 shot! Currituck, NC Youth Duck Hunt

[ 3]

[ 6] Brag 1 - Boogie - Drum Brag 2 - Max Crosson with Grandson James - Trout from Northwest River Park Brag 3 - Mike McGrath - 27-inch Speckled Trout - Chesapeake Bay Brag 4 - Brendan Carroll 27-inch Red Drum - Chesapeake Bay Brag 5 - Dr. Ken Neill - Tautog - Aboard Healthy Grin Extra pictures of Eagles compliments of Dr. Ken Neill 14 TIDEWATER & THE OUTER BANKS

APR. 2022

[ 5]

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

SCHEDULING TIME FOR SPRING (CLEANING?)

By Scott Reppert Virginia Coastal Fly Anglers

A

s you read this it is April, 2022. If your life is anything like mine it involves time spent on work, family obligations and business.

Please consider taking a serious look at your life. Is You time looking at a screen? Is this always well spent or just an attempt to turn off your brain. We are so busy but not particularly happy or content.

Fishing makes me happy. Prepping to go fishing makes me happy.

Talking with others about fishing makes me happy. But mostly fishing makes me happy. When did you fish last? When are you fishing next?

Are you due some time on the water? Would you and the people around you benefit from you fishing more?

This is a fly fishing column so I will put this into context. I do not enjoy being competitive with fishing. I would prefer not to feel rushed to catch more and bigger fish. For me, fishing is like breathing. Life is better and cleaner with a rod in my hand and water in front of me.

This is not to say that I don’t hook rocks, grass and trees but I cherish the moments and make them count.

If you got this far and are concerned about my BS quotient think about what fishing means for you. How did you get to be the angler that you are? How has the last two years affected you and your lifestyle? What do to want to do differently? I am serious when I say fishing more will probably help your mental health. Do you know some kids that want to fish or learn to fish or just want to spend time with you? You may catch less fish but more you will make more memories and have peace of mind.

Where am I going with all this? Just like work or sleep or brushing your teeth you need to build fishing into your schedule. By all means mix it up. Short moments in a day at a local spot to time away with a bunch of crazy people, all of it counts. Frankly, I spend a couple long weekends a year with some guys away fishing. At least one of our significant others think it is an eating trip with some fishing involved.

She may be correct. Find what works for you.

No matter what type of fishing you do, consider doing it more and schedule it in. It may save your life. If you are interested in meeting other people who fish consider going to a club meeting. If picking up fly fishing or doing more of it seems like a good idea to you, please come to the next meeting of the Virginia Coastal Fly Anglers on the 3rd Thursday of the month at Bayside Presbyterian Church in Virginia Beach. Fly tying and casting start about 6:30. You can expect an interesting speaker about 7:30. More details are available at VCFA.org.

See you on the water.

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The Flint River: N AT I V E F I S H I N T H E I R N AT I V E W AT E R S

By Nick Carter

T

he fight didn’t last long, maybe a couple of minutes, but it was exciting. Between bulldog runs, the fish broke the surface and walked on water, shaking its head in anger.

When Kent Edmonds steered the fish out of the current and brought it to hand, a broad grin broke across the man’s face. He lifted a chunky shoal bass for appraisal before release.

It was a decent fish, maybe 14 inches. Still, on a 6-weight fly rod, the strength of the fight rivaled that of a largemouth twice its size. Shoal bass are aggressive and pugnacious. They are an intriguing sport fish native to just one Southeastern river system.

Shoal Bass Fishing for “shoalies” is so much fun. They exhibit the aggression of any black bass, yet their preferred habitat is the swift-water shoals other bass avoid. Like trout, they hover in eddies and dart out to grab prey adrift in the current. They readily attack topwater lures and flies and grow to record weights approaching 9 pounds.

Anglers regularly catch 2- to 5-pound shoal bass, and the largest fish reach lengths up to 24 inches.

A new Georgia record was caught from the Chattahoochee River near Columbus, Ga. in December.

It weighed 8 pounds, 5 ounces.

The IGFA world record was an 8-pound, 12-ounce monster caught from Florida’s Apalachicola River.

With all that going for it, the relative anonymity of shoal bass is due to geography. There is only one small slice of the world where they exist. The species is native 14 NATIONAL

APRIL 2022

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

to the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint (ACF) River Basin, which drains portions of Georgia and Alabama down to the Gulf of Mexico through the Florida panhandle. They are a very cool fish that would be in serious trouble if not for one stretch of Georgia river.

Extensive damming has turned ACF River Basin into a series of reservoirs. Shoal bass still exist in pockets across the entire drainage, but habitat alterations have allowed non-natives like spotted and smallmouth bass to out-compete and interbreed with shoal bass.

The upper Flint River is the largest remaining stretch of unaltered native shoal bass habitat. It is arguably the best shoal bass fishery in the world.

The Flint River Edmonds has guided fly fishers on the Flint for about 30 years, and while he won’t admit it, he’s largely responsible for the river’s sterling reputation as a fishery.

In rural Upson County, Ga., the Flint is like a snapshot back in time. It twists through pine forests of the middle Georgia countryside, undammed for some 220 miles.

There’s a sweet spot for fly fishers in the middle of this long run at a geologic formation known as the Fall Line. The Fall Line is the coastline of an ancient sea that cuts a 20-mile-wide swath of rapid elevation loss across the region. For the Flint, the Fall Line features a 45-mile stretch of river with shoal-broken habitat perfect for wading anglers and shoal bass.

Contact Kent Edmonds through his website www.flyfishga.com.

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t was a perfect late autumn day in the northern Rockies. Not a cloud in the sky, and just enough cool in the air to stir up nostalgic memories of my trip into the backwoods. This year, though, was different. I was going it solo. My two buddies, pleading work responsibilities, backed out at the last minute. So, armed with my trusty knife, I set out for adventure.

Join more than 322,000 sharp people who collect stauer knives Well, what I found was a whole lot of trouble. As in 8 feet and 800-pounds of trouble in the form of a grizzly bear. Seems this grumpy fella was out looking for some adventure too. Mr. Grizzly saw me, stood up to his entire 8 feet of ferocity and let out a roar that made my blood turn to ice and my hair stand up. Unsnapping my leather sheath, I felt for my hefty, trusty knife and felt emboldened.

I then showed the massive grizzly over 6 inches of 420 surgical grade stainless steel, raised my hands and yelled, "Whoa bear! Whoa bear!"

I must have made my point, as he gave me an almost admiring grunt before turning tail and heading back into the woods.

I was pretty shaken, but otherwise fine. Once the adrenaline high subsided, I decided I had some work to do back home too. That was more than enough adventure for one day.

Our Grizzly Hunting Knife pays tribute to the call of the wild.

Featuring stick-tang construction, you can feel confident in the

strength and durability of this knife. And the hand carved, natural bone handle ensures you won’t lose your grip even in the most dire of circumstances.

I also made certain to give it a great price. After all, you should be able to get your point across without getting stuck with a high price.

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HOOKER ELECTRIC COMPLETE PORTABLE LIVE BAIT SYSTEM

O

ver the years, Hooker Electric has a proven track record of dreaming up innovative new products to make fishing easier and more productive. Their Live Bait Tube Bucket is another instance of designers coming up with a simple yet effective solution for a problem many anglers face. The Hooker Electric Complete Portable Live Bait System keeps live baits frisky and ready for deployment all day long.

This patent-pending live bait system uses an internal pump and simple plumbing to circulate water inside a tricked-out 5-gallon bucket. The water flows over tubes, where it is cooled and aerated, while air bubbles are bled off to assure baits remain lively and ready to fish for hours.

The system is portable and comes preinstalled with 10-inch short tubes for smaller pre-hooked baits like gogs, threadfins, sardines, pilchards, hardtails, pogies and mullets. Optional 15-inch tubes keep larger pre-rigged Spanish mackerel, ladyfish, speedos, Boston/tinker mackerel and blue runners ready for action.

All components are easily serviceable, and the tuna tubes are removable.

The Hooker Electric bucket includes a non-skid grip base to eliminate spills and protect precious surfaces from scratches.

The Hooker Electric portable live bait bucket system is designed for mobility. It can be used in fresh or saltwater.

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PELAGIC HUNTING WITH THE CORRECT TOOLS

T

Tim Barefoot

here are correct tools for any project, and we have to use our time wisely. First and foremost, I think water temperature is a key to finding the wahoo and tuna consistently.

I know it costs a few bucks, but you can subscribe to some sites (not promoting any here) that will give you a very clear picture of where you can find a degree or two temperature break on the edge. Once you narrow down a distance and heading for the desired water temps, you then need to locate the bait.

Granted, there are times when the fish will not be on the bait visible on the recorder or on the surface, but just oriented on structure and/or temperature break. This is when it gets down to visible and electronic hunting.

There are electronics available that can locate individual and groups of birds at long distances. This is always a good thing to find. If you have a few birds working an area, chances are they are there because the bait is there. Again, I know this electronic equipment is costly, but it’s yet another tool that can narrow down the search for wahoo, tuna and dolphin.

Then there are tools we possess as humans such as good eyesight (good binoculars) and judgement. If you see a noticeable water color change, birds and/or fish feeding on the surface, weed lines and floating objects, chances are, you’ve found the correct general area. A lot of these floating objects will hold bait and fish, especially wahoo and dolphin.

After narrowing down an area where the fish will likely be in due to temperature, depth, structure etc., this is when I prefer to high-speed troll.

High-speed trolling is another tool to locate the fish, and not a tool to use all day! This is true for wahoo, especially. Once you get a bite, mark that location on the chart. Now it’s time to go back to that area and go to work on ’em. By this time of day, the sun is up pretty good, and the surface bite might slow down a little bit.

Like I’ve always said, the fish don’t have Maui Jim’s shades, so they use depth to get the correct amount of light they want. They look up to see bait at, or near the surface like flyers, tinker, cigs and sardines.

They also look down for the squid down deep. This is the reason the planer rod is typically the one that produces in the middle of the day. When the sun is high in the sky, it’s time to go deep with your baits.

You can’t always catch them where you want to. You have to catch them where they are... down deep.

Visit barefootcatsandtackle.com, and look for “featured video” or Coastal Angler Magazine to see the videos related to this article.

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ason Christie finally did it. In early March, he won the Bassmaster Classic on South Carolina’s Lake Hartwell and was named champion of the biggest event in tournament bass fishing.

In two previous Classics, Christie has held the lead headed into the final day of the tournament, once with a more than 6-pound lead and once with a 4-pound lead. Both times he came up short. This year, he found himself tied for the lead with newcomer Kyle Welcher after Day 2.

“Honestly, when I was sitting at the door waiting to come in and weigh my fish, I thought I had given it away again,” said Christie. “Stetson Blaylock had just weighed in a big bag, and Kyle Welcher used to be a professional poker player, so I knew he had more than what he was saying.

“I knew it was gonna be close. I honestly thought there could be a tie, and that was scary for me because I didn’t have any fish left.”

After Welcher weighed in and took over the “Hot Seat” from Stetson Blaylock, who had just weighed the largest bag of the tournament, Welcher and Christie stood side by side as the largest crowd in the event’s history cheered awaiting the final tally. On the stage, Christie’s five-bass limit of 17 pounds, 9 ounces was 5 ounces heavier than Welcher’s bag of 17 pounds 4 ounces.

Known as one of the best power-fishermen in the world, Christie utilized a 5/8-ounce War Eagle Jiu-Jigsu Jig with a Yum Craw Chunk in green pumpkin/purple. He used a green pumpkin/orange jig until the final day when he switched to straight green pumpkin because he “banged all of the other ones off docks” until they were unusable. He caught most of his fish on the final day fishing shallow docks in 1 to 3 feet of depth in clearer water where most of the other angler were not fishing. He liked the heavier jig due to its faster rate of fall, which drew reaction strikes.

Christie, who returned to the Bassmaster Elite Series a year ago after as short tenure with MLF Fishing, was looking hard for redemption in this year’s Classic. Maybe beginning tied on the final day took some of the pressure off, because the third time was a charm for Christie, who took home a $300,000 purse for his win that pushed his total career earnings to over $1,668,000.

Welcher earned $50,000 for finishing second with 53-11, and Blaylock earned $47,000 in third place with 53-5, which includes a $7,000 bonus for his Sunday catch of 20-9 that ranked as the Rapala Monster Bag of the Week.

South Carolina pro Brandon Cobb earned $2,500 for overall Berkley Big Bass of the Week with the 6-12 largemouth he caught on Day 2.

Phil Wolf is the co-publisher of Coastal Angler Magazine’s Orlando edition.

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