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LOCAL PHOTOS & FORECASTS VOLUME 27 • ISSUE 324

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t was a good winter in the Atlantic off south Florida’s Palm Beach County. Capt. Austin Rowe said that bodes well for the spring season, when a convergence of several different bites typically makes for some of the best action of the year. “March, April and May are by far my favorite time of year around here,” he said in mid-February. “We’re already starting to see some blackfin tunas right now, which is kind of uncommon. It was a crazy-good winter for mahi, and it was a good for sailfish, as well. I’ve got my fingers crossed that the fish stick around for spring, and we can really put a hurting on them.” Rowe is a young captain who grew up fishing here, where the Gulf Stream sweeps warm nutrient-rich waters northward just a few miles offshore. He captains “Angler Management,” a 34’ Legend center console with twin 300s. With a crew of up to six clients, it is a perfect ride for making the short runs out of Singer Island’s Sailfish Marina quickly and comfortably.

By Nick Carter

“One of the really beautiful things about fishing around here is you don’t have to go very far to get to the fish,” he said. “A full tank of gas lasts a long time.” Most spring mornings start for clients with a run of just 3 or 4 miles out of the inlet with tanks pre-loaded with live threadfin herring and/or goggle eyes. Kite fishing is the preferred method in this part of the world, and that’s exactly what Rowe does when conditions are right. “I’m looking at water color, temperature and moving water. I’m also looking for bait,” Rowe said. “I’m a big fan of charts, and I study them religiously looking for eddies and things, but keeping your eyes open is the biggest thing when you’re out there. If you see live water, with birds diving, it’s probably time to pick up and go see what’s happening over there.” With kites—or drifting with flatlines when conditions call for them—you’re targeting anything that will eat live baits at the surface. That can produce some pretty exciting mixed bags.

“We see a lot of blackfin tunas. There should still be some sailfish around. The kingfish start to show up pretty thick this time of year, and there are also mahi,” Rowe said. “And don’t forget wahoo. Wahoo can get really good around the full moon in March.” If all else fails, or if his clients just want some more meat, the reef is just a couple miles from the kite-fishing grounds, and it’s usually no problem to load up a cooler full of snappers in short order. Big African Pompano also make regular appearances on the reef. Rowe said that by the end of the day, if his anglers aren’t too worn out, he’ll stop in the inlet and let them test their strength against some hard-pulling jack crevalle. You can pack a whole lot of fishing into a full day when you don’t have to run far to find fish. Check out Austin Rowe and Absolute Action Sportfishing Charters at absoluteactionfishing.com.

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MARCH 2022

NATIONAL 7

ventilation, you’ll conquer every battle, every day. GILLZ took its Pro Series UV Hoodie to the next level. They went one step further and provided anglers with a built-in mesh mask to go along with the 3-piece hood construction. Now, you’re able to keep your gear organized in one place for when that unexpected pull on the reel turns into a clash of strength. Brand new to this collection is the Pro Series Board Shorts. Made of recycled quickdry polyester, the 9-inch inseam gives you the freedom to move without worry, and the secure cellphone hip pocket keeps your devices safe from any damage. This time, Gillz introduces anglers to a new design feature: a no-sew fabrication. This means no chafing or irritation as you charge headfirst against the waves. The Contenders Series, delivers an amazing fit and feel for each and every angler. With the Contender Series Long-sleeve or Hoodie, you’re guaranteed to have 360-degree cooling and 170 GSM interlocking polyester that gives you perfect performance every single time. Moreover, you’re given an extended range of motion that allows every angler to move freely. When facing the unpredictable outdoors, GILLZ Gear and the new Spring 2022 who want Collection will give you the power to perform to face the at your best, no matter where you and Mother elements head-on. With our GILLZTEC proprietary fabric, Nature meet. With prices starting at $39.99, there’s 4-way stretch, and the ability to modify with something for every angler from the Atlantic to the shoulder shape, the Pro Series Long-Sleeves and Pacific and every waterway in between! Hoodies fit every angler to perfection. Plus, when Check out the Gillz Spring 2022 Collection you add on UPF 50+, ultra cooling, a single seam at gillz-gear.com. underarm mesh gusset, and complete 360-degree

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MONSTER BASS ON

JURASSIC LAKE

t piques my interest when “Jurassic” appears in a nickname. So is the case with Jurassic Lake, a 10,000-acre reservoir in Fellsmere, Florida, officially known has Headwaters Lake. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) had a goal to turn Headwaters into a worldclass trophy bass fishery. By all accounts, they succeeded. Just a little over 10 years ago, this bassfishing mecca was farmlands, cattle pastures and orange groves. The St. Johns River Water Management District purchased the lands from Sun-Ag to build a reservoir intended to provide a water supply for surrounding communities and flood control for the St. Johns River. The FWC saw an opportunity and invested $1.35 million in bass fishing “enhancements.” Prior to the reservoir’s flooding in 2015, the FWC constructed fish habitat in the form of winding channels, dredge holes, flats, islands and more, with the goal of providing the optimum combination of structure, depth and spawning habitat. The FWC planted 15,000 bald cypress and red maple trees on the numerous islands, and they stocked over a million bass, bream and crappie. If there is a downside to Headwaters, it’s that there is so much awesome, fishy-looking habitat that it can be a little over whelming trying to figure out where to fish. Since August 2020, when the Headwaters Lake boat ramp opened, 103 trophy bass (bass eight pounds or larger) have been registered into FWC’s Trophy Catch program from Headwaters. Who knows how many other giants were caught that were never entered into Trophy Catch? The biggest registered catch is a 13-pound, 1-ounce monster caught by kayak angler Mary Kelly on January 24, 2022. Those are pretty impressive results for a reservoir that is not even seven years old. Jim Fallon, the Godfather of Headwaters,

10 NATIONAL

MARCH 2022

By Paul MacInnis

has probably fished these waters more than anybody. “I love this lake because of the design of the habitats, the natural beauty and all the great fishing,” said Fallon. You’ll find Fallon on the reservoir three to five times a week. He’s been fishing there since 2018, before the boat ramp opened, when he’d drag a kayak into the reservoir from the bank. Fallon says a competent bass angler should catch 15 to 40 bass on an average day with a decent shot at a trophy fish every trip. Fallon has caught almost 50 bass over eight pounds from Headwaters, including 13 in the double digits, all on artificial baits. The address for the Headwaters Lake boat ramp is 16245 Fellsmere Grade Road, Fellsmere, Fla. Headwaters is an hour and a half drive from Orlando, making it a great diversion on a central Florida vacation. The nearby city of Palm Bay has convenient hotels, many with bass boat friendly parking lots. An internet search will bring up several Headwaters guides who can put you on a bass of a lifetime. For more information, visit MyFWC.com.

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APPROACHING THE

TRANSITION

By Capt. Michael Okruhlik

s I type this article in early February, the temperature is 38 and the forecasted lows across the Texas coast will dip into the mid to upper twenties for a few nights. This should place larger seatrout into full-blown winter mode, which is a great thing. It might not be so cold where you fish, but similar patterns should exist wherever there are big trout. Predicting movements and habits is always easier when the seasons are typical. This tells me where I should start in early March versus where I should fish later in the month. In early March, I look for shallow areas with irregular soft mud and grass bottoms. I particularly like these areas adjacent to deeper water, as the night temps will still cool flats to less favorable temps for large trout. The term “deeper” will be different for each area. So, as you plan your trip, you should focus on deeper pockets in relation to the overall area. Early in the month, I will stick to a larger profile lure

like a 5-inch paddletail. The trout will still be feeding on mature mullet, and the 5-inch swimbait is a great imitation. These lures are versatile, and they are ideal due to the finicky nature of trout during the transition from winter to spring. A slow roll can be deadly when trout move onto a flat to warm and feed. Depending on the conditions, a slow roll just under the surface that creates a slight ripple can trigger an aggressive strike. If the bait is down, I will slow roll the lure in the mid to lower water portion of the water column. The versatility of these lures also allows them to be jigged and twitched; however, I prefer to do that in a little deeper water. As the water temps rise later in the month, fish become more difficult to pattern. Although high temps warm the water faster, persistent cool fronts still chill the waters, and the wind shifts can wreak havoc on the pattern. It keeps fish and anglers confused. During this part of the season, I tend to move often, not devoting too much time to a location or pattern. Changing things up often until you find them is more effective than banging it out in a spot like I would do in early March. Lures to choose from are wide open here. Small and large soft plastics in the twitch or paddletail style can all be effective. Topwaters and slow sinking hard baits can also produce. Keep moving and changing lure styles, sizes, colors and action until you find the bite. Don’t forget to take a kid fishing. You will be surprised what they can teach you when they put the electronics down. Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures, Controlled Descent Lures, and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.

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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

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OBX By Aaron Kelly

PUNGO OFFROAD Virginia Beach’s Premier Truck, Off Road and 4x4 Accessories & Service

INSHORE

Getting all the reels, rods, braid, tackle, and bait all ready for a much-anticipated fishing season. Lets think out loud and get a peek into neurotic fishing guides mind. I need five yarn braid which is more chafe resistant but coarser than the supple eight yarn braid. Nah, I like the smoothness and castability of the 8 yarn j-braid. That is until I am trying to pull drum out from under the pilings. Shoot, now Daiwa has the grand x braid not sure how that can be better than the j braid but they say it is. Uni to Uni knot works great until you have to cast that through your guides. Fg knot seems to be the best but just takes too long to tie after a few breakoffs. Flouro or not to Flouro is the question. Does it really hurt my bite when the water is murky? Ok, so it has a closer refractive index to water than regular monofilament but does it really have to cost a dollar a yard. Plus, the Flouro kills the action on the bait. Actually, have you ever tried to figure out the action of a gulp bait. Looks like a chartreuse stick moving thru the water. I am glad those gulp days are behind me. The expense of gulp was 30 bucks more a trip. Thank God Zmans came out with that super soft swimmy action. Even seems to get a handful of bluefish in with those teeth before needing to be replaced. Oh no, I forgot, according to stock analysis bluefish are on their way out. With the way the regulations that are coming down on us, it seems only a of couple bluefish, no flounder, one drum, and one cobia are allowed. Maybe I should convert my fishbox into a charcuterie and offer clients cheese and meats as we toss their respective dinners back over. Circle hooks or j hooks? I like the circle hooks but it never fails monster cobia gets a hall pass from Bill Dance on the rod. Got my Captains License in Check. I have my twic card and my operators permit. This enables me access to my garfo and south Atlantic permits. With vessels documentation and registration up to snuff. Current for hire blanket license. P number. Cool think I got it all but why do I need a permit for a permit for a permit for a permit. Seems I am already in secret double probation. It’s a very sobering amount of documentation for four taylor bluefish. Need to order few more pairs of smiths and throw these Costas in the trash they went to the dark side. I think I have more questions than when I started. I trust God will bless us with happy clients and some beautiful catches! Looking forward to seeing you guys out there! Capt. Aaron Kelly rocksolidfishing.com 252-441-657

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THE FLYING FISHERMAN By J. Andre

Number 9, Number 9, Number 9? No, we’re not talking about a Beatles song on the White Album. I’d be on the warpath if I didn’t already have #8. We ordered a new 18-foot G3 side console, 90 HP Yamaha, and trailer last August. The previous 6-months were spent studying boat designs, different models, deck configurations, etc. before finally picking the new #9. This is the same process I go through with any major purchase. I don’t let go of my money easily. It takes me a while to decide and act. Once the decision was made, and the rig was on order, I felt like a kid waiting for Christmas. About a month went by and the rumors started. Aluminum prices were skyrocketing. G3 increased prices by 10%. Boat motors were in very limited supply. General raw materials and component parts were not in stock. At the first hint of disaster and shattered dreams, I pulled my Craig’s List sales ad on #8. The sale process was slow going anyway. I wasn’t going to give her away as she was fully rigged out. I showed prospective buyers the cost of a new motor, trolling motor, boat, and trailer upgrades, etc. #8 was listed at less than half the cost of a new rig of the same type. Still, the camel traders wanted a better deal. Now that the crunch is on for new rigs, a review of Craig’s List, Boat Trader, and I-Boats have rigs of this type are going for much higher prices. It is much like the housing market today. You can sell your property for obscene amounts, but good luck finding something to replace it. So out of all this misfortune, I still have #8, and I’m happy to have her. When it comes right down to it, she still does everything I expected of her when I evaluated all the competitive models 4 years ago. Besides, I don’t feel so bad when I bounce her hull off of a washed over crab pot buoy on the flooded river. On recent fishing trips on the river, I started thinking, “What do I need a bazillion dollar boat for to catch catfish.” …..well, it would still be nice.

Once you start using logic, it is easy to talk yourself into, or out of any decision. The same happens with me and airplanes. Should I get a low & slow flyer, an aerobatic demon, a traveling time machine, or one that does a lot of different missions, but none really well. In the end, it comes down to, “I want this one because I want it.” This will satisfy me until my want for something else overcomes my previous need. This is why I’m at airplane number four and boat number 8. Automobiles and wives are a different story. I just wear out automobiles. I think we’re on numbers 16 and 17. As far as wives go, I found the rare one that puts up with me, and I’m not taking my chances with another. As you read this article, I have just returned from the Louisville, KY Catfish Conference. As of now, I plan to look at the new rigs on display there. Who knows where my wants and desires will be a month and a half from now? Either way, I know I’m going catfishing again and I’m bound to have a good time in whatever boat I’m fishing. Get slimed!

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MAR. 2022

TIDEWATER & THE OUTER BANKS 3

Jake’s Outdoor Adventures

ere we are already in the month of March in this new year! Every March is the Great Bridge Fishermen’s Association Annual Fishing Flea Market located at the Chesapeake Convention Center. The Flea Market was held last year in June because of Covid issues but many vendors could not make it, including myself, because we were on the water in the beginning of our fishing season. The club has gone back to their normal time and it will be held on March 12, 2022, from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM at the Chesapeake Convention Center (look for their full-page ad in this issue). I always look forward to the Flea Market every year to buy, sell and trade for fishing items. Contact the Great Bridge Fisherman’s Association for information on getting your own table at the flea market. So get to cleaning up and organizing your fishing gear, see what you need and make plans to be there. If you find you have way too much stuff, then rent a table and make some money to buy more fishing equipment. See you at the Flea Market! If you have any questions, here is the Great Bridge Fisherman’s Association home page link: https://fishgbfa.org/ Speaking of fishing clubs, the Outer Banks Anglers Club is a great club to join if you live or visit the Outer Banks and like to fish. The club was most recently responsible for the creation of a new artificial reef south of Oregon Inlet. Several members of the club worked tirelessly through the long process of making this a reality. The club meets the last Monday of every month except May (that is Memorial Day) at 7:00 PM at Kitty Hawk Methodist Church in Kitty Hawk. They also have several member’s fishing tournaments throughout the year and several social events looking to happen again when Covid is behind us. Their website is https://www.outerbanksanglersclub. com/. They also have a Facebook Page. Check them out. I have been a member since I was a kid and it is a great club of fellow fishermen. I have exciting news to share! I am going to be the new First Mate on The Pelican! I had a great year fishing with Captain David Daniels

4 TIDEWATER & THE OUTER BANKS

MAR. 2022

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

By Jake Worthington on The Seaducer, but this once in a lifetime job of being Captain Arch Bracher’s mate is an opportunity I could not turn down. I am leaving Captain Dave in good hands with my best friend and fellow fisherman, Garrett Grant. I grew up fishing on the planks of the Avalon Fishing Pier and I got to watch Arch and his twin brother, Pat, fish for over a decade. I learned a great deal by watching them over the years and I picked up a great deal of fishing knowledge from them both. Pat Bracher is a Charter Captain in the Florida Keys. Both Pat and Arch are well known world class fishermen with many years of experience and tournament wins. So, if you want to experience some great fishing, book a trip with us on The Pelican this year. Jake Worthington 800-272-5199. First Mate, The Seaducer Charter Fishing Boat, Oregon Inlet Fishing Ctr

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MAR. 2022

TIDEWATER & THE OUTER BANKS 5

TIDEWATER & OUTERBANKS

LUBRICANTS ROUND-UP: What to Use, Where to Use It

he array of engine and drive lubricants, oils, sprays, and fuel treatments at your local marine parts store or dealer can be intimidating. As boating season approaches, soon it will be time to prep your rig for a great season ahead! Here’s a primer on what to use and where to use it.

GREASE: Waterproof, synthetic extreme duty grease is best for lubricating engine steering and trim/ tilt pivot points as well as trailer bearings. Keep a spare grease gun and a few cartridges handy in your tow vehicle in case of emergency or just to top off.

ENGINE OIL: Be careful what you buy! For four-stroke engines, engine oil goes in the engine crankcase to lubricate the inner workings (crankshaft, pistons/rings, bearings and camshaft). In a two-stroke, it’s either poured into the oil injection tank or for older engines, mixed directly with the fuel. Synthetics are typically better and can help your engine last longer, but they’re more expensive. What’s important: • Buy the right oil for your engine: there are oils specially formulated for inboards and stern drives (essentially car engines in boats), PWC, and four stroke outboards. There’s also specially formulated oils for two stroke engines, depending on whether the oil is mixed in the fuel or injected from a separate tank. This may be especially important if your engine’s under warranty. Use the manufacturer’s recommended oil if possible. • Don’t skimp on oil quality. Buy name brand oils only; look for the TC-W3 rating on outboard oils. You may save a few bucks on the oil, but if it damages your engine, that cost far outweighs any savings. GEARCASE/DRIVE LUBRICANT: As with engine oil, but the right stuff for your drive. Synthetics are better and can help the gears and bearings in your drive/ gearcase last longer, but again are more expensive. Ask your dealer if you are in doubt.

FUEL TREATMENT: Very important stuff—this can save a lot of headaches caused by high ethanol content in fuel, or injector/carburetor gumming and contamination problems caused by long layups (longer than a couple months). Use it liberally in a tank of fuel; it’s inexpensive and really does help keep your boat’s fuel system clean. “ENGINE TUNE IN A CAN”: Sold by outboard manufacturers as well as others, this solvent helps keep piston rings and pistons from “coking” with hard carbon deposits, which can lead to loss of compression (and resulting loss of power), and ending in engine failure. Each manufacturer calls it something different: Power Tune (Quicksilver Mercury), Engine Tuner (BRP Evinrude) Ring Free (Yamaha), etc. Apply liberally once per season and your engine will last longer with more power.

POWER TRIM/TILT AND POWER/HYDRAULIC STEERING FLUID: Be especially careful here. For sure, only buy what your unit’s manual and your dealer recommend, and don’t mix types, brands or purposes. Don’t use power trim fluid in the hydraulic steering system, for example. Keep an extra bottle handy in your boat’s storage area (in a leak proof storage container), and in your garage or shop to top off if necessary.

6 TIDEWATER & THE OUTER BANKS

MAR. 2022

By John Tiger

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

ELECTRICAL PROTECTANT: This is typically available at marinas and auto parts stores. Spraying this on the engine’s electrical parts (coils, spark plug wires, etc.) can help provide a “film” to keep corrosion and age/ brittleness away. It’s particularly helpful in salt water areas.

LIQUID LUBRICANTS: These (silicone spray, WD-40, etc.) can be sprayed just about anywhere moving parts work together or rub on each other, again especially in salt water environments, to keep corrosion from causing parts to rust, stick together and break when used. Great for throttle shafts, tilt levers, engine cowling/cover latches and levers, and of course anywhere on a trailer (winch, tongue jack, lights, etc.). RUST PENETRANTS: These lubricants are used to loosen stuck bolts, screws and nuts. It’s best to spray them on a stuck part, then wait a bit to allow the penetrant to soak in between the two parts. TOUCH-UP PAINT: For those who wish to keep their engine looking new, a can of this helps keep corrosion at bay, and your engine’s value up. A can of zinc chromate primer paint applied before the actual color touch-up paint will help that paint last a bit longer. Any boat owner worth their salt will have these and more in their arsenal of boat and engine maintenance products. Keeping them new is also a must; after a few years of sitting in your shop, they won’t be as effective as when new, so replace as needed. 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

MAR. 2022

TIDEWATER & THE OUTER BANKS 7

TIDEWATER / OUTER BANKS

CATCHIN’& COOKIN’ DUTCH OVEN CHICKEN

JIM BAUGH’S RECIPE OF THE MONTH

I recently updated my cookware collection with a 6-quart Lodge Cast Iron Dutch Oven, and its Blue! Here is my first dish I cooked with it and it was delightful. First up, get a good whole organic chicken and coat it with sesame oil and season with your favorite rubs. Next, cut up one white onion and throw it in the pot. Now open your favorite beer and dump all of it into the pot with the onions. Stuff the bird with a variety of your favorite peppers. Cover the pot and bake at 350 for 45 minutes covered. Then take the lid off and bake another 25 min or so to brown off the top. Best darn chicken I ever baked. Amazing!

SPRING ON THE DRUM by Jim Baugh reporting from Oyster Farm at Kings Creek, Cape Charles VA

Folks, I can’t begin to tell y’all how much fun JBOTV has had filming Black Drum on the Eastern Shore over the past several years. These fish are monsters and are so much fun to catch. Probably the most incredible drum trip we have had was with Captain Sam Sellard and his lovely wife Jean. The super cool thing about this trip is you are fishing on the seaside in very shallow water, only a few feet. One would not think those huge Drum will swim in such shallows, but they do and they are munching on anything on that bottom. JBOTV will be filming again the drum season and look forward to bringing you some more excellent stories of the big drum that got away. Hey, don’t forget they are fantastic to eat as well. And do not forget the ribs! The rib meat is fantastic. As the season approaches, I recommend to stay in touch with the local tackle shops on the Shore. They are an excellent source of info. We will also be post updates on social media once things get crackin. Hey if you have not done so yet, check out our new Nightscape Gallery 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 will be announcing new larger size metal prints next month so stay tuned. Now is the time for a nice weekend getaway with that someone special. 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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MAR. 2022

TIDEWATER & THE OUTER BANKS 9

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NORTH CAROLINA VIRGINIA VIRGINIA SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE EXMORE NORTH Suzuki Limited Warranty for additional details. Suzuki, the “S” logo, and Suzuki model and product names areVIRGINIA Suzuki Trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. Marine USA, LLC. All rights reserved. Smith Mountain Seaworthy KILL DEVIL HILLS© 2021 Suzuki ACCOMAC CHESAPEAKE NEWPORT NEWS CHESTERFIELD YEAR Boat & Tackle Marine Services Bill’s Marine LLC Sandpiper Marine Inc. Centerville Waterway Marina Sports Marine, Inc. Nautical Marine LIMITED WARRANTY 540-576-2755 757-442-3666 252-982-6595 757-787-7783 757-547-4498 757-595-9333 804-271-3198 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 March 31, 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 2022 drive. Always wear a USCG-approved jacket and read your COASTALANGLERMAG.COM THEANGLERMAG.COM MAR. TIDEWATER & life THE OUTER BANKS owner’s manual. © 2021 Suzuki Marine USA, LLC. All rights reserved.

CALLING ALL VETS AND PEOPLE WHO WISH TO SUPPORT THEM By Scott Reppert Virginia Coastal Fly Anglers

his month I want to talk about Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing (PHWFF). PHWFF was organized in 2007 to support rehabilitating wounded or injured active duty service people and disabled veterans through fly fishing and all the related activities. I have volunteered with this organization for some years and enjoy the opportunity to serve those who serve. It also happens to involve all sorts of fly fishing activities, even better. Many of the local activities are based around the various Veterans Administration centers such as the Hampton VA Medical Center or the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth but with COVID still being a thing, outside visitation is not currently being encouraged or supported. Still, it is an excellent way to connect with other enthusiasts. Every Veteran’s Day since 2014 (worldwide pandemic notwithstanding), the Tidewater PHWFF Program has held a fly tying marathon in Norfolk that I regularly attend and help teach fly tying. I missed this past year as I got carried away catching false albacore but that is a conversation for another article. They also routinely have virtual tying events. My initial activity with PHWFF was through their rod building classes/ competition. I have been routinely amazed by the creativity and discipline involved in producing a unique and priceless rod by PHWFF participants. Another type of activity is, of course, going fly fishing. One of my favorite events is the annual fundraising saltwater fly fishing tournament in the fall hosted by Legends of the Fly. This event has different divisions for kayaks, boats etc. to catch/release a variety of species over the course of the day. This is followed by a gathering with prizes raffles and, if this is important to you, great food and a wide variety of consumable refreshments. Other trips are organized through the year to a variety of fishing opportunities. There is a slew of other fishing opportunities organized throughout the year both in fresh and saltwater from local, single day fishing outings to trips all across the state for trout and various other species. Please check out the national organization at their website projecthealingwaters.org. There are connections there to the various chapters as well as links to news and activities. If you’re interested in getting involved locally, either as a volunteer or participant, you can contact the Virginia Regional Coordinator Bill Campbell at bill.campbell@ projecthealingwaters.org. An easy way to chat with some local volunteers and participants is to come to a meeting of the Virginia Coastal Fly Anglers at Bayside Presbyterian Church in Virginia Beach. Our meeting is the 3rd Thursday of the month at 7PM but come early for conversation or fly tying or casting, weather and light permitting. Many of our members are vets and we would love to see you there.

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

[ 1]

[ 3]

Brag pics 1-3 all caught by David Rickman Brag 1 7-lbs 27 1/2”Flounder Brag 2 8-lbs 6oz 28 1/2” Flounder

PIC OF THE MONTH

Brag 3 52” Striper Brag 4 Boogie - Red Drum Brag pics 5 & 6 Caught aboard the Healthy Grin by Dr. Ken Neil

[ 2]

Boogie Speckled Trout

Brag 5 9+ Tautog Brag 6 Black Bass

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The U.S. Mint Just Struck Morgan Silver Dollars for the First Time in 100 Years!

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t’s been more than 100 years since the last Morgan Silver Dollar was struck for circulation. With a well-earned reputation as the coin that helped build the Wild West, preferred by cowboys, ranchers, outlaws as the “hard currency” they wanted in their saddle bags, the Morgan is one of the most revered, most-collected vintage U.S. Silver Dollars ever. Struck in 90% silver from 1878 to 1904, then again in 1921, these silver dollars came to be known by the name of their designer, George T. Morgan. They were also nicknamed “cartwheels” because of their large weight and size.

Celebrating the 100th Anniversary with Legal Tender Morgans

Honoring the 100th anniversary of the last year the Morgan Silver Dollar was minted, the U.S. Mint struck five different versions in 2021, paying tribute to each of the mints that struck the coin. The coins here honor the historic New Orleans Mint, a U.S. Mint branch from 1838–1861 and again from 1879–1909. These coins, featuring an “O” privy mark, a small differentiating mark, were struck in Philadelphia since the New Orleans Mint no longer exists. These beautiful coins are differO PRIVY MARK ent than the originals for two reasons. First,

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A+

MARCH IS THE TURN-AROUND MONTH

The early part of the month will feature very cold water temps around the inlets and river mouths, and keep the trout, drum (redfish) and flounder a little on the sluggish side, but that doesn’t seem to bother the shad, rock and cats. As a matter of fact, it kicks them into overdrive. It’s not water temperature so much as it is the length of daylight in the beginning of the month, but water temps do come into play by the end Tim Barefoot of March. The end of March will see the big spawning female speckled trout his has been a winter for the books, with cold temps, constant wind and sometimes too much rain keeping us arriving at the inlets and river mouths, and the drum bite will be on from the offshore grounds weekend after weekend. In light of fire. This is the time of year when you stand to catch an egg-filled gator trout, but for goodness sakes, take some this, let’s talk about some of the things that brought a lot of good photos and dimensions/weight us to the dance, the anadromous fish that are coming home and let her go do her spawn. This can be in the month of March. the time of year for some great topwater/ If you live on the East Coast, white and hickory shad, popping cork trout and drum bites. striped bass and sturgeon are coming back to the place There are bites, then there are topwater they were born to spawn. March is traditionally a very bites. It’s exciting fishing to say the least. windy month, so on the days we can’t get offshore, there is March will also produce tuna, a safe haven up in the river for some entertainment. Truly, dolphin and wahoo when you can get some of the best to them. The wind will keep us inside memories I have a lot during March, but whenever the were made up seas lay down enough to get offshore, the river. While go for it. This can be the time to catch a not the best stud wahoo and numbers of tuna. Find table fare, white a temperature break and/or the bait, and and hickory you’ll find the wahoo and tuna. They are shad are right on the move and chewing. up there at I don’t care what the wind is doing, I the top of the can always find somewhere to get a bite entertainment and grin in this turn-around month we list. Other fish call March. that have always been at the top See more from Capt. Tim Barefoot of my favorite spring entertainment list are striped bass (rock) and blue at barefootcatsandtackle.com catfish. They come back to the upper reaches of the river to spawn in and rigandjig.com. large numbers.

KEEP IT GENUINE PRECISION PROTECTION

Whether you take your boat out to the lake or the ocean, your 4-stroke outboard needs ECSTAR Suzuki Semi-Synthetic Engine Oil so it can run long and strong. ECSTAR features special additives that protect the engine in harsh salt and fresh water environments, advanced detergents that keep engine parts clean, and viscosity index improvements that help the engine start in cold conditions. No matter where your next boat ride takes you, go confidently with ECSTAR.

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MARCH 2022

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PHOTO BY SEIGO SAITO/B.A.S.S.

At Hartwell, Stage is Set for 2022 Bassmaster Classic By TAM Staff

or months the field has been set for the big show. From March 4-6, some of the world’s top professional bass anglers will fish South Carolina’s Lake Hartwell, vying for a championship in the 2022 Bassmaster Classic. Upstate South Carolina will play host to the field of 55 professional anglers as well as hordes of fans, who will attend daily weigh-ins at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville and morning takeoffs at Green Pond Landing & Event Center, near Anderson. The annual Bassmaster

Classic Outdoors Expo will take place each day at the Greenville Convention Center. As for the fishing, Hartwell is familiar to the anglers. The 2022 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk will mark the fourth time the tournament has been held on the 56,000-acre reservoir. The fishery is renowned for excellent spotted and largemouth bass fishing. Early March is typically a transition period on upstate lakes, when bass begin moving up in preparation for the spawn. Weather will have

SPRINGTIME FISHING...

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everything to do with how successful anglers will fish. The two normal patterns that set up that time of year are either a deeper bite on ditches and points in 30 to 60 feet of water, or a shallower bite when bass move up into the 5- to 20-foot range to stage next to the spawning flats. The prespawn bite can provide excellent numbers of fish as well as some solid size, which could potentially produce fast action and heavy sacks for Classic competitors. Lake Hartwell’s bass eat a lot of blueback herring, and Hartwell tournaments are responsible for the rise of the underspin as popular bass lure. If the fish are deep, it’s likely underspins, shaky heads and football jigs will see a lot of time in the water. If fish are shallow, jerkbaits, jigs and red crankbaits are Hartwell staples. Each of the three previous Classics have provided action-packed finishes. In 2008, Texas pro Alton Jones Sr. went into the final day with little more than a pound lead, but managed to hold off the rest of the field and claim his only Classic trophy. In 2015, when temperatures dipped as low as 9 degrees, hometown favorite Casey Ashley, of South Carolina, came from behind on the final day to win his only title. Then in 2018, young Alabama pro Jordan Lee jumped from sixth place on the final day to win his second-straight Classic. Fans turned out in droves for all three visits, creating an electric atmosphere for the weigh-ins and packing the Expo all three days. For information on fishing Upcountry South Carolina, visit FishUpcountrySC.com.

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Notes from the field:

BERN NOTICE O

n paper, I was in Switzerland to ski the Alps and eat my weight in fondue. According to some, I was actually there to keep an eye out for Karloff, a rival spy who’d been attempting to rip off a Swiss bank. Walking through Bern’s picturesque Old City, passing Einstein’s house,

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I noticed that I was being followed by a dark figure in a trench coat. No matter how I zigged and zagged through the old cobblestone streets, I couldn’t shake him. Finally, I turned a corner and quickly ducked into an old watch shop. The place looked like it had been there for ages, as did the shopkeeper. Taking me for a customer, the shopkeeper began giving me the full story on why Swiss-made watches are renowned the world over. In 1971, he said, rules were established mandating that any timepiece bearing the “Swiss-made” hallmark must have its mechanics, casing and final inspection take place in Switzerland. Swiss watches are built to last several lifetimes. I smiled, because I knew only Stauer can build Swiss-made watches without it costing a fortune. Now you can also enjoy the precision and accuracy of a Swiss-made sports watch with a moveable bezel. Introducing the Pride of Bern Watch, a timepiece built to keep pace with the underworld of spies. The first time we offered this watch it sold out in TWO DAYS. Finally back in stock after six months, supplies of this quality Swiss-made timepiece are still limited. Get your hands on it before we run out again!

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rom humble beginnings in a home office five years ago, GaugeSaver has flourished on word-of-mouth and happy customers. The company has found great, hardworking friends to help the business grow, and a year ago expanded into a commercial property at 5049 Hwy 17-S in Green Cove Springs, Fla. They fixed up a 1,500-square-foot building for a main office and technician space, and recently constructed a 2,500-square-foot rigging shop. The plan is to grow into this space and offer electronic installs, repairs, etc. Happy customers are the key to GaugeSaver’s growth. Eric Clayton and his wife Tammy believe in their service so much that they both left 25-plus-year IT careers to grow the brand. They now do more than just gauge restorations. They remanufacture replacement parts for Yamaha, Mercury and Suzuki gauges. They restore LCDs for many devices and most major manufacturers including Garmin, Raymarine, Furuno, Simrad, iCOM, Volvo, Honda, Humminbird, SeaDoo, Kawasaki, and more. They can restore almost anything that has an LCD. This includes VHFS, Chartplotters, AutoPilots, Jet Skis and Side-By-Sides. GaugeSaver can even replace LCD assemblies with aftermarket or OEM parts to keep electronics out of landfills. GaugeSaver was founded to extend the lifespan of electronics and save people money. Every week they are learning new ways to do so. They offer Dealer Discounts for friends in the industry. Check out Gaugesaver.com (or drop by and meet the shop dog, Jeb) to see if WWW.GAUGESAVER.COM GaugeSaver can save you money!

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With the new inflatable PaddleSki™ 473ps kayak you can go 17 mph with a 6 hp outboard and motor 70 miles on just a 3 gallon tank of gas. That means this unique catamaran kayak can get you to fishing spots that no other fishing kayak can get to! And when you get there, you can fish in ways no other fishing kayak can...you can stand up and cast with the sure knowledge that you are stable and safe. You can sit for hours fishing on the swivel seat and enjoy 360° views in total comfort.

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DEXTER SURGE ACTUATORS

exter’s complete line of surge actuators are highly engineered, easy to use, and go through rigorous testing to ensure that you get to your destination safely. Available in capacities from 6,600 lbs. to 20,000 lbs. in both disc brake and drum brake varieties, Dexter surge actuators provide smooth and powerful operation. All you need to do is replace the trailer’s standard tongue coupler with a surge actuator and add hydraulic brake end units. The “surge” or “push” of the trailer toward the tow vehicle during deceleration automatically synchronizes the trailer brakes with the tow vehicle brakes. As the trailer pushes against the tow vehicle, the actuator compresses and applies force to its master cylinder, which supplies hydraulic pressure to the trailer’s brakes. As a trusted leader in the Marine Industry, Dexter also outfitted its surge actuators with corrosion-resistant rollers and bushings to create smoother movements and added longevity. Tow with WWW.DEXTERAXLE.COM confidence – Demand Dexter!

MAINTENANCE-FREE TOWING www.dexteraxle.com

Dexter’s Vault® and Vortex® marine axle lubrication systems are rigorously engineered to keep the water out and your bearings lubricated. Also, there is no annual maintenance required. Confidently backed by our industry-leading 6-year/100,000-mile warranty. Spend your time on the water, not working on your trailer. Demand Dexter Vault & Vortex hubs for your boat trailer.

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MARCH 2022

NATIONAL 21

WILD SALMON THREATENED BY INTERBREEDING WITH FARMED FISH

nterbreeding between farmed salmon and wild populations in Norway is changing the lifecycle of wild salmon, according to a report from the website Phys.org. Researchers with the Norwegian Institute for Nature Research and Rådgivende Biologer studied scale growth patterns in thousands of salmon taken from rivers in Norway from 2010 to 2017. They looked at the impact of escaped farmed salmon breeding with wild salmon by collecting scales from 6,900 adult wild Atlantic salmon in 105 Norwegian rivers. The researchers conducted genetic tests on the scales to learn the genetic history of the fish. The researchers found that both farmed salmon and wild salmon with farmed ancestry mature and age at a faster rate and return to rivers earlier to spawn. It was hypothesized this accelerated maturation process puts salmon at a higher risk of predation because they venture into saltwater earlier, when they are less likely to evade capture by sharks and halibut. Prior studies have indicated that salmon with farmed ancestry are less afraid of predators. The study suggests interbreeding of farmed and wild salmon will result in reductions in wild populations, which has already been observed in some areas. To read the entire report, see phys.org

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22 NATIONAL

MARCH 2022

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

Stauer

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Praise for DiamondAura® “So much sparkle and the play of light on DiamondAura® beats any diamond!” — D.D. from Columbus, OH

How to Win at Love

A classic tennis bracelet serves up over 10 carats of sparkle for a guaranteed win

t was the jewelry piece that made the world stop and take notice. In the middle of a long volley during the big American tennis tournament, the chic blonde athlete had to stop play because her delicate diamond bracelet had broken and she had to find it. The tennis star recovered her beloved bracelet, but the world would never be the same. From that moment on, the tennis bracelet has been on the lips and on the wrists of women in the know. Once called eternity bracelets, these bands of diamonds were known from then on as tennis bracelets, and remain the hot ticket item with jewelers.

Join more than 1 million thrilled diamondAURA® customers We’ve captured this timeless classic with over 10 total carats of DiamondAura®, our signature diamond alternative stone. This sparkling marvel rivals even the finest diamonds (D Flawless) with its transparent color and clarity, and both are so hard they can cut glass. Don’t believe me? The book “Jewelry and Gems – The Buying Guide,” praised the technique used in our diamond alternative DiamondAura®: “The best diamond simulation to date, and even some jewelers have mistaken these stones for mined diamonds,” it raved. For comparison,

we found a similarly designed 10 carat tennis bracelet with D Flawless diamonds from another company that costs $57,000! Want to look like a million bucks without stressing over losing or damaging something that cost you a fortune? The Love Wins Tennis Bracelet is a simple strand of glittering gems in precious sterling that epitomizes elegance. The first time we offered this bracelet, we sold out literally in minutes. It was our fastest selling product of 2021. It took six months to get it back in stock — Get yours before we run out! Jewelry Specifications: • 10 ¾ ctw of the Ultimate Diamond Alternative®, DiamondAura® • Rhodium-finished .925 sterling silver setting • Fits wrists to 7 ½" Love Wins Tennis Bracelet (10 ¾ ctw) $399 $39* + S&P *Special price only for customers using the offer code.

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AFFORD THE EXTRAORDINARY

Hi-tech rods perform like skittish show dogs. This one just puts fish in the boat. Built durable to handle the salt, the Ugly Stik® Bigwater is as mean as it gets. TM

FOR REEL

GOOD FISHING Visit Upcountry South Carolina Stop by the South Carolina Lakes booth at the Bassmaster Classic Expo, March 4-6, 2022 at the Greenville Convention Center.

Perfectly Seasoned FishUpcountrySC.com

864-233-2690

Lake Hartwell, host of the 2008, 2015, 2018, and 2022 Academy Sports & Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk