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BOOST YOUR CATCH w/RezBoostTM Technology
Interested in getting the most out of your own trusted transducer, or not sure you’re ready for the expense of installing a new CHIRP transducer? Furuno has a solution that will get the very best performance from your traditional narrowband transducer. Our RezBoostTM Fish Finders deliver clearer images than ever before, we’re talking up to 8x sharper. Whether it’s NavNet TZtouch2 or the FCV588/FCV628 stand-alone Fish Finders, RezBoostTM will boost your catch!
Get up to 8x sharper resolution, using a standard narrow band transducer, to more clearly define fish targets.
Assess individual fish size and depth based on echo strength for fish from 4 inches to over 6 feet.
Identify the sea floor composition from four types (Rocks/Sand/Gravel/Mud).
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Electronics GARMIN INREACH EXPLORER+ Going where the fish are often means exploring places where communication becomes very difficult. Whether you’re far offshore, deep in a marshy backwater or high up a remote mountain stream, wouldn’t it be reassuring to know you can connect with someone in the event of an emergency? Or you might just need to let someone know where the fish are biting? The Garmin inReach Explorer+ is a handheld GPS navigator and satellite communicator that allows you to explore anywhere and communicate everywhere. It is a rugged, compact unit that uses 100 percent global Iridium coverage for two-way text messaging and tracking anywhere in the world. Navigate with detailed, preloaded TOPO maps, follow routes, mark waypoints and find your way back with a high-detail bread-crumb trail. Using GPS tracking, you can easily share your location with family, friends, social media or emergency responders. In case of emergency, the interactive SOS allows you to communicate back and forth and receive confirmation that help is on the way. For added capability, use the free Earthmate app to pair your inReach Explorer+ with mobile devices and access unlimited maps, aerial imagery, NOAA charts, weather and more.
WWW.GARMIN.COM FURUNO DFF3D Turn your NavNet TZtouch or TZtouch2 MFD into a multi-beam sonar that can see 120 degrees port to starboard, allowing you to see the depth and direction fish schools are moving, while displaying the seabed condition in real time. Furuno’s DFF3D gives you real-time 120-degree port-starboard view of the water column and seabed in deeper than 650 feet of water, allowing you to find fish in deep water faster than conventional
single-beam sounders. Cross-Section displays the real-time sea column echo in 120 degrees port and starboard. This mode aids in understanding the distribution of baitfish and water column conditions. The 3D Sounder History provides an intuitive and easyto-understand 3D image of the seafloor, along with fish school icons. A single or triple-direction fishfinder image can be displayed. The triple beam display helps you understand the depth of fish and seabed condition in each direction, as well as the direction target fish are moving. Side scan clearly displays the shape of structure to port and starboard as a high definition image.
WWW.FURUNO.COM STANDARD HORIZON EXPLORER GX1700 GPS VHF RADIO The GX1700 makes DSC easy. With an internal 12 Channel GPS built into the front panel, there is no need to hassle with wiring the radio to a GPS for DSC. Out of the box and ready to go, DSC calling, position sharing, waypoint navigation and navigation to DSC distress calls can all be performed with just a few simple steps. The Explorer GPS VHF radio has a compact rear case of only 3.5 inches. The Built-In WAAS GPS receiver and antenna give flexibility to flush mount the radio in tight areas. The GX1700 is capable of entering and saving up to 100 waypoints, which may be navigated to by using a unique navigation compass display that shows bearing and distance to the waypoint. GX1700 is an ITU-R M493 Class D class VHF with a separate Channel 70 receiver, which allows DSC calls to be received even when listening to communications. The DSC DISTRESS function transmits a digital MAYDAY including vessel identification, latitude/longitude and time, to facilitate prompt response. Other features include a big, bold display; RAM3+ remote mic capability, easy position sharing, Clearvoice noise reduction technology, programmable channel names, NOAA Weather channels and Weather Alert. And it’s all backed by a 3-year waterproof warranty.
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Product Review ACR ELECTRONICS RESQLINK PLB
At 4.6 ounces, the ResQLink distress beacon weighs less than a couple of energy bars, and it’s smaller than the cell phone in your pocket. Small and mighty, the ResQLink PLB is a full-powered, GPS-enabled rescue beacon designed for anglers, pilots and backcountry sportsmen. With three levels of integrated signal technology—GPS positioning, a powerful 406 MHz signal, and 121.5 MHz homing capability—the ResQLink PLB quickly and accurately relays your position to a worldwide network of search and rescue satellites. A built-in strobe light provides visibility during night rescues. Even in extreme conditions and situations, the ResQLink activates easily. With its powerful 66-channel GPS, the ResQLink guides rescuers to within 100 meters of your position. And, in the continental U.S., search and rescue personnel are typically alerted in as little as five minutes. Other features include: no subscription fees, self-test and GPS-test features and typical performance 30 hours. If you have to use your ResQLink PLB, ACR will replace it free of charge.
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JL AUDIO MEDIAMASTER 100S BLACK EDITION The MM100s-BE is hitting the market just in time for summer. This latest Black Edition of JL Audio’s MediaMaster was introduced with an updated user interface that offers enhanced volume control flexibility and four fully variable zones, each with independent feature/control options; Volume, Tone, and Naming. NMEA 2000 interconnectivity is built into it and equipped with a NMEA2K Connector to integrate into existing networks, enabling MFD control functionality with Lowrance, Simrad and Garmin. Designed for today’s modern media environment, the MM100s-BE features a Digital AM/FM/Weather Band Tuner, Bluetooth connectivity, separate line level AUX and USB/iPhone inputs, and it’s SiriusXM-Ready. Available with an optional MMR-20BE Wired Remote. The MM100s-BE is a premium, single-chassis source unit with superb audio performance, excellent ergonomics and advanced audio features, specifically designed for marine applications. Check it out at http://www.jlaudio.com/. Available at HIGH TECH MARINE in Hialeah, Fla. 305-883-9700.
WWW.HIGHTECHMARINE.COM ANGLER’S PAL ELECTRONICS MOUNTS AND TROLLING MOTOR STABILIZERS
Boaters and anglers invest a small fortune in their equipment. Fishermen, for example, know that quality sonar, GPS, chart plotters and electric motors are vital tools that enhance their experience. For that reason, MarineTech Products, manufactures the Angler’s Pal line of electronics mounts and trolling motor stabilizers. Angler’s Pal mounts are designed to withstand the harsh marine environment and provide rock solid stability with minimal space requirements. The patented universal Ball Locking Device provides 360-degree adjustability and the strength to support the heaviest equipment without “drift.” The Angler’s Pal Trolling Motor Mounts feature a unique rubber lock-down strap that protects your trolling motor from accidental deployment or excessive vibration that can damage the shaft. Overall length: 10” and now THE NEW 14” model for longer shafts and deeper gunnels. They are made of corrosion-resistant stainless steel and hardanodized aluminum for fresh and saltwater use. They are available in a variety of lengths, and all Angler’s Pal mounts can be easily removed for storage. Angler’s Pal also manufactures 700 and 800 Series Rod Holders. For information, contact Marine Tech Products at 1 651-4862010.
WWW.ANGLERSPAL.COM
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BIG BEND : Mike McNamara • (850) 510-7919 • captmike@coastalanglermagazine.com BREVARD : David String • (321) 684-5888 • dstring@coastalanglermagazine.com DAYTONA/NEW SMYRNA BEACH : Don Meadows • (321) 436-5895 • donm@coastalanglermagazine.com FLORIDA KEYS : Cliff Lumpkin • (305) 849-9093 • cliff@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT LAUDERDALE : Gene Dyer • (954) 680-3900 • gene@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT MYERS : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER MIAMI : Scott Deal • (561) 945-6999 • scott@coastalanglermagazine.com Monica Isaza-Deal • (561) 945-8899 • monica@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER ORLANDO : Phillip & Giselle Wolf • (407) 790-9515 • phillip@coastalanglermagazine.com LAKELAND & SUMTER : Mary Brasher • (352) 598-4219 • maryf@coastalanglermagazine.com NAPLES : Mike Weber • (414) 531-4172 • mikew@coastalanglermagazine.com NC FLORIDA/NATURE COAST : Cary & Lynn Crutchfield • (352) 372-4237 • crutch@coastalanglermagazine.com NE FLORIDA : Danny Patrick • (904) 742-4696 • danny@coastalanglermagazine.com PANAMA CITY/FORGOTTEN COAST : Randy Cnota • (229) 834-7880 • randyc@coastalanglermagazine.com PALM BEACH COUNTY : Barbara Ryan • (561) 373-8040 • barbara@coastalanglermagazine.com SARASOTA : Phil Prevoir • (239) 257-4684 • pprevoir@coastalanglermagazine.com TAMPA BAY : Chuck Atkins • (239) 464-5153 • chuck@coastalanglermagazine.com TREASURE COAST : Misti & Gary Guertin • (772) 285-6850 • treasurecoast@coastalanglermagazine.com flahama@coastalanglermagazine.com
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Garmin Introduces
W
hether it’s by land, air or sea, Garmin has made a name for itself as the industry leader in navigational electronics. Its popular and varied GPSMAP product line offers the perfect tool for anyone who needs to know where they’re going. In November, Garmin brought powerful new tools to the realm of marine electronics with the introduction of several new networking chartplotters and combination models to the GPSMAP line. Unveiled at the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show, these units lured in boaters and anglers with high-end features at a more than reasonable price point. “These new GPSMAPs are designed for the budget-conscious customer who desires premium features typically found only in a higher-end product,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of worldwide sales. “We’ve packed these plotters with industry-leading features, builtin conveniences, and we’ve added two new screen sizes to our lineup—a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12-inch keyed—to offer something for every boater.” Ranging in size from 7- to 12-inches, these new plotters are available with and without built-in sonar.
gration, and a 10Hz GPS/GLONASS receiver for smooth on-screen navigation. These compact plotters offer full-network compatibility for the Garmin Marine Network, which allows support for sharing sonar, maps, user data, radar, IP cameras and Panoptix all-seeing sonar among multiple units. Plus, there’s NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 support for autopilots, digital switching, weather, VHF, AIS and other sensors. Anglers, cruisers and sailors alike will benefit from the xs series that comes equipped with built-in 1kW traditional CHIRP sonar and CHIRP ClearVü scanning sonar capability for a near-picture quality view of what’s beneath the boat. Preloaded premium mapping features can be found on the GPSMAP 742/742xs and the GPSMAP 942/942xs, including both BlueChart g2 HD charts for the U.S., Canada and Bahamas and LakeVü HD maps. The GPSMAP 722/722xs and GPSMAP 922/922xs come preloaded with a worldwide basemap for general reference with support for optional mapping available at garmin.com.
GPSMAP 7x2/9x2 and GPSMAP 7x2xs/9x2xs Touchscreen Series
GPSMAP 10x2xsv/12x2xsv and GPSMAP 10x2/12x2 and Keyed Series
The GPSMAP 7x2/9x2 series plotters are 7- and 9-inch sunlight-readable touchscreen chartplotters perfect for any boater. The xs series offers the perfect solution for anglers with chartplotter/sonar combination units. These compact and powerful units are exactly what’s needed when functionality is essential and cockpit or deck space is at a premium. Building on the popularity of the 7-inch touchscreen Garmin pioneered in 2010, this series introduces a 9-inch touchscreen to the Garmin line. Both serve customers who value screen size as a compelling option. They feature builtin wireless connectivity for Garmin mobile apps and VIRB action camera inte10
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For those who prefer using a keypad, the all-in-one solutions offered by the new 10-inch GPSMAP 10x2xsv and the 12-inch GPSMAP 12xsv can’t be beat. With an all-new industrial design, these combos feature a large, sunlight-readable screen coupled with a keypad interface and new multifunction rotary control knob that offers precise, simple control for easy menu navigation and setting control, even in rough water. These units also offer four user-programmable hot keys for one-touch access to favorite features and functions. In addition to GPS and connectivity features also found in the GPSMAP 7x2/9x2xs series, the GPSMAP 10x2xsv and GPSMAP 12x2xsv also offer impressive sonar capabilities with built-in
CHIRP sonar, CHIRP ClearVü and CHIRP SideVü as well as support for Panoptix all-seeing sonar. Other premium Garmin sonar modules are also available, including two new CHIRP transducer options–the GT8HW-IH and GT15MTM. The GPSMAP 1042xs/1242xs come preloaded with BlueChart g2 coastal charts and U.S. LakeVü HD, while the GPSMAP 1022xs/1222xs offer a worldwide basemap. Two non-sonar versions, the GPSMAP 1022 and GPSMAP 1222 are also available with a preloaded worldwide basemap.
Advanced Features For Sailors
Premium sailing features have also been integrated into both new series, offering laylines, tidal information, enhanced wind rose, a current slider and other elements that prove beneficial to sailors. All new models also offer integrated ANT support for use with the quatix 3 marine smartwatch, the Garmin Nautix in-view display, gWind Wireless 2 transducer, GNX Wind marine instrument and wireless remote controls. Additionally, all sonar-enabled models feature built-in Quickdraw Contours software, a free, easy-to-use tool that lets mariners instantly create personalized HD maps with 1-foot contours on any body of water.
An Attractive Price Point
The GPSMAP 7x2/9x2 and xs series will range from $799.99 to $1299.99, while the GPSMAP 10x2/12x2xsv and non-xsv series will be priced from $1699.99 to $2999.99. This is exceptionally affordable pricing for top-quality electronics with so many sophisticated yet easy-to-use features. What more could you expect from Garmin, the company that was recently named Manufacturer of the Year for the second year in a row by the National Marine Electronics Association. For a full list of features and more information, visit garmin.com/newmarine.
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Adjustable cap with brim UV-blocking polarized sunglasses
F
Photo courtesy of Controlled Descent Lures
or nearly a century, Eagle Claw has provided premium hooks for all kinds of anglers using American steel and designing and manufacturing them right here in the U.S.A. Founded in 1925 in Denver, Colo., Eagle Claw is extremely proud of its long history of American-made fish hooks. And it is also proud of the high-quality product it produces. Trokar Eagle Claw’s Trokar hooks offer a competitive advantage for serious saltwater competitors. These premium quality hooks offer a faster, deeper, surer point penetration that requires half the pressure of the competition. Manufactured using cold forged high-carbon American-Made steel, they offer better durability and stronger holds for hard-fighting, big-game species. Trokar hooks are surgically sharpened, and their triple-sided points are regarded as the most innovative, sharpest, and most durable on the market today. The Platinum Black finish is designed to withstand repeated use in saltwater and harsh marine conditions. There are more than 20 models of Trokar hooks available for fresh and saltwater. A highlight of the Trokar saltwater line is the TK197 Primal Circle Hook, which is an awesome all-purpose bait hook with an offset, light-wire design. Made of high-carbon steel wire for strength and durability, this hook has a highly durable point and a salt-resistant coating. It offers stronger hold for battling fast and hard-fighting big game fish, and it is a dream come true for serious competition anglers who fish for serious saltwater species. Lazer Sharp Eagle Claw’s Lazer Sharp hooks are designed to be “Sharper, Stronger, Longer,” which means the patented Lazer Sharp needlepoint and forged technology ensures a sharper, stronger, longer hold than the leading competition. Lazer Sharp hooks feature uniquely blended coatings—Sea Guard, Platinum Black and Nickel— which are designed to be more durable and abrasion resistant after repeated use in saltwater. There are more than 30 Lazer Sharp saltwater models available. The L2004EL has become a staple on the boats of big-time billfish anglers. They are approved by the Billfish Foundation for tournament use, and were the original and once the only tournament-approved circle sea hook. The design of this non-offset, circle sea, with a wide gap, light wire and a forged point, results in more solid hook-ups and a much higher rate of fish hooked in the corner of the mouth, which equates to fewer escaping fish as well as less-stressful releases. To this day, the L2004EL is still the single best option for pro and amateur billfish tournament anglers looking for proven performance stemming from a decade of making champions out of competitors. Eagle Claw Fishing Tackle, Co. is an American-based company that has been designing and manufacturing innovative, high-quality fishhooks and fishing equipment for more than 90 years. Its family of brands includes Eagle Claw, Lazer Sharp, TroKar, Wright & McGill and Shappell. For more information about Eagle Claw Fishing Tackle Co. and its family of brands, visit www.eagleclaw.com, find them on Facebook at facebook. com/eagleclaw/, facebook.com/TroKarHooks/ and facebook. com/shappellcorp/ or call 720-941-8700.
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ON THE COVER Editor’s Note:
Each month, Coastal Angler Magazine and The Angler Magazine staff search our vast coverage area for photos that will grace our covers. With well over a million readers in diverse coastal and inland markets, our magazines strive for broad national appeal as well as local-level intelligence to put anglers on fish. The cover is different depending on which edition you, the reader, are holding. The following is a little information about this month’s covers.
COASTAL ANGLER MAGAZINE Costa Rica Sailfish
FREE
The great shot of a Pacific sailfish that graces Pacific Sails the covers of this month’s Coastal Angler In Costa Rica Electronics Edition editions comes from Costa Rica Pro Staff member Francisco Mejias. Francisco is one of the great captains who provide monthly Striped Bass forecasts for our local Costa Rica edition, Are Running Local and he captures some stunning photography as well. Knowing one’s way around a camera is important for getting cover-worthy shots. And it definitely doesn’t hurt to have a target-rich environment like Costa Rica’s beautiful Pacific coast to snap photos of trophy fish. Inside this month’s magazine, Francisco and several other Costa Rica Pro Staff members came together to share the Pacific sailfish experience with our readers. From smaller boats, they pull spreads for sails that can top 200 pounds. The techniques and tools for catching and releasing them safely are laid out in the article, and they are techniques honed by the knowledge that can be gathered during 50-sailfish days. No kidding. The fishing down there can be that good. Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events
PHOTO COURTESY OF FRANCISCO MEJIAS, VOLUME 22 • ISSUE 267
COSTA RICA PROSTAFF
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THE ANGLER MAGAZINE Hudson River Striped Bass
FREE
All over the country, wherever striped bass Striped Bass live, spring incites migrations of these bruisers Are Running up the rivers to spawn. This is the time of year when very large fish can be caught in skinny water. In the Southeast, runs of landlocked Electronics stripes can be roughly timed by the blooming Edition Local of the dogwoods. In the Northeast, anglers Picky-Trout Tactics await the arrival of the Alewives. Dave Maneri, of Tivoli, N.Y., caught the big striper on the covers of this month’s The Angler editions. His buddy Paul Hughes Jr. snapped the photo while they were fishing the striped bass run on the Hudson River, which feeds the Atlantic Ocean at New York City. It was an epic day for the two anglers. They caught multiple fish, including the cover fish and another one about the same size, which Paul is holding in the photo that appears with the article. In that article, Dave tells us all about the Hudson River striped bass run and how he goes about catching big stripers from the shore as well as from a boat. The uninformed might assume there’s no fishing to be done in such close proximity to one of the biggest and busiest cities in the world. But striped bass and baitfish still run up the Hudson each year to spawn, just like they have since time immemorial. Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events
PHOTO COURTESY OF PAUL HUGHES JR. VOLUME 22 • ISSUE 267
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By Pro Staff Costa Rica • Photos by Francisco Mejias
T
he Pacific sailfish is one of the most sought after offshore game fish in Costa Rica. Growing larger than their Atlantic
counterpart, sailfish in Costa Rica average 60 to 80 pounds, but big ones can surpass 200 pounds! They are migratory, with the main concentration of fish arriving in our area of the Central Pacific as the dry season sets in the end of December. They move away as the wet season kicks in during early May. Even though this is the main migration, there are always sailfish present in our waters year round. We fish from smaller boats, so we use the traditional five-rod setup. A combination of natural baits and lures are used, and our main baits are ballyhoo. Our lures of choice are the Magna series from Santos. Variations of pink, lumo and blue combined with a Trokar hook are deadly combinations. If the bite is slow, we often sew a belly flap or strip bait into the lures for a more enticing bait. On the outriggers, we use teasers. A squid chain in pink on one side and a bigger lure like a Santos Carolina Seastalker on the other is a good start. The shotgun gets a Santos lure as well as the long rigger. The short rigger and the two corners are set up with naked swimming ballyhoos on Trokar 7/0 circle hooks. It is also handy to have a mullet, horse ballyhoo or tuna
rigged and ready to go as a pitch bait in case a marlin decides to crash the party. Once the fish is caught it is time for a few photos. This is a critical part of the process, as it involves fish handling. Even though some boats still bring up a sailfish for a photo, it is highly recommended to not do so, as it can be extremely harmful to the fish. It is the process of pulling the fish over the rail of the boat that causes problems. The protective mucus covering is scraped off, leaving an area of skin exposed to bacterial and fungal attack. This can result in death of the fish at a later time. Leave the fish in the water, and with a good pair of AFTCO gloves, grab the outer part of the bill and push the fish as far out from the boat as possible. Keep the head of the fish in the water as much as possible, and lift it briefly for a good photo. Take the shot from the tail end of the fish looking forward or from above if possible. Alternatively, grab the front part of the sail, pull it up and hold the bill with your other hand. Make sure the bill is always pointing away from you and not at you. Take the photo from the front of the fish. If you have never been to Costa Rica fishing, it is definitely worth it and you will be hooked! Pro Staff Costa Rica provides monthly reports for Coastal Angler Magazine’s Costa Rica edition. Search out Pro Staff Costa Rica on Facebook for more great photography, videos and fishing content.
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Spring Striped Bass Run The Hudson River By Nick Carter
E
ach spring, through the Hudson River’s mouth at bustling New York Harbor, a massive spawning migration of Atlantic stripers pushes some 150 miles upstream to the Federal Dam at Troy, N.Y. In this long stretch of tidally influenced river, striped bass show up when water temps reach the 60s. Dave Maneri, of Tivoli, N.Y., said the trick is to keep up with the migration and put yourself in the right place at the right time to intercept pods of transient stripers. “They move in big schools,” Maneri said. “Some days they’re there and you can catch them; other days they’re not. You gotta stay on the reports. They’re running the whole river, so you could travel to where the fish are or wait until they’re where you are.” Smaller schoolie striped bass show up first. They come with the spawning alewives, which are baitfish commonly called herring. Schoolies remain in the river for a couple months some years, and there’s also a year-round resident population. But Maneri said the big cows remain only for a week or two each season. They are always on the move, and connecting with them can lead to unbelievable action with big fish measuring past the 40-inch mark with weights heavier than 30 pounds. Fishing bait is generally the most productive tactic. The best bait is herring pulled right out of the river, either live or chunked. Most locals use a scap net to catch herring. A scap net is essentially a 4’x4’ dip net. The schooling herring will follow a swimbait right up to the net where they are captured. Maneri fishes his herring off the bottom using medium and medium-heavy rods with baitrunner-style reels that allow fish to run with the bait on free spool before the angler strikes to set the hook and engage the drag. He employs a main line of 30-pound braid with a 1 ½-foot leader of 15- to 20-pound fluorocarbon. A 7/0 Gamakatsu Octopus should be hooked through the bait’s mouth, and the whole rig is kept down with a 2- or 3-ounce slide swivel teardrop sinker. Maneri said stripers don’t relate to any kind of structure on their spawning run, so the good spots are the drop offs, channels and shallows where baitfish might be funneled. Obviously, a boat gives anglers the ability to move and seek out fish. But fishing from shore is also productive. When he fishes from the shore, Maneri uses rod holders made from PVC pipe and rebar. They can be wedged into rip-rap to free up the angler while waiting on a bite. And the bite can be a tricky thing. Maneri said these stripers have a knack for spitting the bait. One thing is for sure, though; when the hook sets solid and the drag is engaged, a big striped bass in heavy current is a formidable opponent. Dave Maneri is a team member of Catskill Outdoors. Look them up on Facebook.
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Tips For Catching Picky Trout
By Charlie Warfield • Photo by John Winkler, redhouseflyfishing.com
T
he upper end of the Delaware River, and more specifically the West Branch of the Delaware in the Catskill Mountains, is a favorite of many fly anglers in Pennsylvania and Upstate New York. It can also be frustrating place, as it holds some very picky trout. The river has a reputation for crystal clear water, and because it is a bottom-release tailwater, it has a very consistent temperature, which makes for great hatches and healthy fish year round. It is known for being very technical, and this is just a nice way of saying it will sometimes make you want to pull your hair out. The first time I fished it, I was tested, even frustrated by this beautiful waterway. But besides the beautiful mountain setting and endless hatches, it is in part the challenge that drove me to go back time after time. I persisted and figured out ways of tricking the beautiful native fish. I learned lessons there that have made me a better angler. The following are some insights that will give you a leg up when you go fish the Delaware or any other technical stream. Downstream Presentation: Many anglers learned to cast upstream and let the fly drift down. But when fishing for spooky or educated fish, this method can sometimes leave you frustrated. It’s harder to get a good, long drift with a downstream presentation, but many times it is your best bet. Next time you’re having a hard time getting a take, cast out at about 90 degrees to the bank, and quickly give an upstream mend, this will help you keep a drag free drift for as long as possible. Keep mending as often as needed, letting the fly swing to its full downstream position. Sweep-Style Hook Set: The downstream presentation should be matched with a sweep-style hook set. To use this technique, swing the rod downstream and strip the line at the same time, this will pull the line through the water, creating tension and giving a good hook set. By swinging the rod downstream, you are also pulling the hook into the corner of the fish’s mouth rather than pulling it up and away from the fish. Slow Down Your Hook Set: Ok, we have all done it before. It’s a tough day on the water and all of the sudden you get a strike, BAM you set the hook… and nothing. I have heard people say things like, “Next time, set the hook faster.” But most of the time the opposite is true. A good technique is to wait one second and then give the rod a gentle lift or sweep. Match the Hatch: Picky fish know what they want to eat. There can be significant variation in color, size and body shape in the same species of fly from region to region, and there are many subspecies for each type of fly we fish. So do your homework. I suggest hiring a local guide or at least stopping in at the local fly shop. It is good to support the community, and you can never beat local knowledge.
For more tips on trout fishing, go to
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apt. Judy Helmey is reporting some pretty good action off the Georgia coast. “The inshore bite continues to be very good one day and not so good the next,” she wrote. “Whiting bite has been great, and thank goodness I have been on the on-bite days. Plain old bottom fishing has been great in the sounds with small pieces of shrimp on small hooks and light tackle.
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“Redfish (slot and trophy redfish), spotted sea trout, flounder, sheepshead, black drum and whiting have pretty much lined our captains’ coolers on the on-bite days! Best bait hands down is going to be live shrimp, with the cold water. Mud minnows come in second.” Photographed here is what Capt. Judy called a grand gaggle of whiting, caught by the Silva family while on spring break at Tybee Island. Capt. Matt Williams, of Miss Judy Charters, showed them the fish-catching way. “When it comes to catching whiting, it sure is a lot of fun!” wrote Capt. Judy. “Although the fish are small, it comes with some big bite patterns. Normally these fish hold at a certain depth, and at a certain tide under certain circumstances. Once you figure out their selection for the day, you will be catching good to go. “Here are a few tips: Once you find their preferred depth, continuous bites can happen. Keep in mind that this fish can hold in as shallow as 8 feet to as deep as 30 feet of water. They love staging at the contours/drop offs on the bottom. Heck, take a close look at your chart plotter and let it show you the way. The old whiting has the strangest bite pattern. The fact of the matter is a whiting peels its shrimp, just like we do, before eating it. “If I have said this once, I have said it thousands of time. And since I have been fishing for over 52 years, this certainly is not so much of an exaggeration! I always tell my customers that where you catch one whiting they are plenty more. The reason being is they follow the food. So, if you are anchored and start catching fish right off, you most likely have picked the right spot. In my case, since my boat has a 12-foot beam, the fishermen on the port side might catch more than those fishing on the stern or starboard side. In thinking about that, 12 feet can make a lot of difference. Having everyone fish on one side of the boat can get a little crowded, but it works! Out on the artificial reefs, the Spanish mackerel have arrived. Capt. Judy said to watch for feeding and diving birds to find them, and the best way to catch them is trolling a Clark Spoon. On the Snapper Banks, bottom fishing for vermilion snapper, black sea bass, trigger fish, porgy, white grunts and other biters has been good. The best baits have been cut squid and fresh fillet fish. Capt. Judy Helmey runs Capt. Judy Charters out of Savannah, Ga. Contact them at 912-897-4921 or by email at fishjudy2@aol.com.
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Coastal Georgia Fishing Forecast
May is the month that many anglers look forward to, as nearly all of our warm weather species have now arrived. Cobia, Triple Tail, Whiting, Flounder, both Spanish and King Mackerel, Amberjacks, large Sharks, Bluefish, Lady fish, Croakers, Mullet, Spots and many other species will filter into the marshes of Coastal Georgia. There will still be plenty of action from our year round residents such as Red fish, Trout, Sheepshead and Black Sea bass as well. Mays tides will be favorable with the exception of a few days around the full moon where we see a little stained water. The good thing about bigger tides during May is that with the abundance of other species, there are options. Some of the better days on our near shore wrecks will occur on or around the full moon. Redfish will move up on the flats during big flood tides, sharks will bite, and triple tails will float, so plan your trips accordingly. While spring can be daunting for one of Coastal Georgia’s favorite fish, the speckled trout, May will be the month to concentrate on higher tide stages for these fine eating fish. A lively shrimp or quarter ounce D.O.A. shrimp floated about 28” underneath a popping cork will take their share of speckled trout this month. Remember to give your cork a sharp pop every 3 or 4 seconds to attract the trout. Don’t stay in any one area for more than fifteen minutes or so if you are not getting strikes. Some proven colors for trout this month with the D.O.A. shrimp are clear with red flake and clear with gold flake. Many anglers are finding
By Capt Tim Cutting
out that using scents on the product like those offered by Procure and Gulp! seem to get more takes. Many bait shops, including Buccaneer Bait and Tackle and St Simons Marina will offer mud minnows this month. Jimmy Wheeler of St Simons Marina suggests using a mud minnow under a popping cork as well, as you will not only catch trout with these lively baits, but reds and flounder also feed heavily on these baits. Many savvy anglers on our coast know that May can be spectacular for whiting, red fish, flounder and speckled trout further up our rivers and sounds during May. Head west up the Turtle, Little Satilla, Satilla and St. Mary’s Rive during the quarter and ¾ moons as the tides slow down and fish all shell, docks, sparse grass, and bridge pilings that you see. Concentrate your efforts at the higher stages around grass points and covered shell. On the low tide present your baits in deeper water around docks and bridge pilings. Usually, a live shrimp floated in 12 to 16 feet around dock heads and bridge pilings will be the key to finding trout. Many trout will be large this month and I encourage all anglers to let the big girls over 20” swim. Large trout make large trout babies and also release a greater number of eggs. Many of these pilings will also hold flounder this time of year. The bigger flounder won’t show until later in the year, but many flat fish in the 3-5 lb. range will be caught.
you can find. Keep your presentations slow, by either utilizing the float rig, a jig or Carolina rig. Jig heads tipped with white or chartreuse plastics work well, and the mud minnow is probably a flounder’s favorite meal. Anglers that are proficient with a cast net should be able to find finger mullet this month as well. There is almost no fish that will refuse a live 3-4” finger mullet, especially if they can be kept live and frisky. Bait can be a tad trickier to keep alive as the water gets warmer, so be sure to keep your live wells are functioning properly. A combination of constant water exchange and aeration seems to work best for most anglers. Closer to the ocean the piers, bridges and beaches will continue to produce excellent catches of whiting for the shore bound angler. Trish, down at St Simons Island Bait and Tackle, has reported one of the best springs for large whiting that she has seen in a while. Let’s hope this trend continues, as both anglers in boats and those on shore have also reported some phenomenal whiting catches so far this spring. I have found that a #1 octopus hook or a #2 kahle hook works very well. Use fresh peeled shrimp with enough weight to keep your bait stationary. Heavy tackle is not required, but I do upsize my leader material to 40-60 lb. test for when those hard fighting sharks show up…and they will!
For those that like to specifically target flounder, keep your baits in as much deep shell and structure that
Capt. Tim Cutting 912-230-1814 www.fishthegeorgiacoast.com
2 SOUTHEAST & COASTAL GEORGIA | MAY 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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offshore • inshore
redfish • shark • flounder
light tackle • fly
Capt. Tim Cutting 912.230.1814
trout • tarpon • triple tail
The Reelin’ in a Cure Band Party and Tripletail Tournament to benefit the Glynn County Unit of the American Cancer Society will take place on Mother’s Day Weekend, Friday, May 12th & Saturday, May 13th, 2017 at Morningstar Marina on St. Simons Island. The Friday night Band Party will be a PINK OUT PARTY to honor the local mothers who have or are currently battling cancer. We encourage everyone to wear pink head to toe in support of these brave women! Band Party tickets are $40 per person in advance and includes entertainment provided by Stewart & Winfield, food by Southern Soul Barbecue and beverages provided by Parker’s Convenience Stores. The cost to participate in the fishing tournament is $100 per adult angler and $50 for junior anglers. Fishing Tournament entries include the Captain’s Meeting, Band Party, Swag Bags, and participant prizes. Tickets can be purchased at Kennedy Outfitter’s or online at www.acsvictoryboard.org.
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ST. Simons Bar Date Day 2017/05/01 Mon 2017/05/02 Tue 2017/05/03 Wed 2017/05/04 Thu 2017/05/05 Fri 2017/05/06 Sat 2017/05/07 Sun 2017/05/08 Mon 2017/05/09 Tue 2017/05/10 Wed 2017/05/11 Thu 2017/05/12 Fri 2017/05/13 Sat 2017/05/14 Sun 2017/05/15 Mon 2017/05/16 Tue 2017/05/17 Wed 2017/05/18 Thu 2017/05/19 Fri 2017/05/20 Sat 2017/05/21 Sun 2017/05/22 Mon 2017/05/23 Tue 2017/05/24 Wed 2017/05/25 Thu 2017/05/26 Fri 2017/05/27 Sat 2017/05/28 Sun 2017/05/29 Mon
Time 12:49 AM 01:50 AM 02:51 AM 03:53 AM 04:54 AM 12:00 AM 12:53 AM 01:41 AM 02:26 AM 03:07 AM 03:45 AM 04:20 AM 04:54 AM 05:28 AM 06:04 AM 12:11 AM 12:55 AM 01:43 AM 02:37 AM 03:35 AM 04:37 AM 05:40 AM 12:47 AM 01:46 AM 02:43 AM 03:37 AM 04:30 AM 05:22 AM 06:16 AM
Hgt Time Hgt Time Hgt Time Hgt 7.93 H 07:30 AM -0.05 L 01:29 PM 6.73 H 07:44 PM 0.11 L 7.55 H 08:34 AM 0.2 L 02:32 PM 6.6 H 08:52 PM 0.38 L 7.22 H 09:38 AM 0.31 L 03:35 PM 6.57 H 09:59 PM 0.49 L 6.97 H 10:38 AM 0.3 L 04:37 PM 6.66 H 11:02 PM 0.48 L 6.83 H 11:32 AM 0.24 L 05:36 PM 6.85 H 0.39 L 05:51 AM 6.78 H 12:22 PM 0.16 L 06:28 PM 7.08 H 0.28 L 06:42 AM 6.79 H 01:07 PM 0.1 L 07:15 PM 7.3 H 0.17 L 07:27 AM 6.8 H 01:50 PM 0.06 L 07:57 PM 7.46 H 0.09 L 08:10 AM 6.78 H 02:28 PM 0.06 L 08:35 PM 7.53 H 0.06 L 08:50 AM 6.71 H 03:04 PM 0.1 L 09:12 PM 7.51 H 0.09 L 09:28 AM 6.58 H 03:38 PM 0.19 L 09:47 PM 7.39 H 0.19 L 10:06 AM 6.4 H 04:10 PM 0.33 L 10:21 PM 7.22 H 0.35 L 10:43 AM 6.2 H 04:43 PM 0.49 L 10:56 PM 7.01 H 0.53 L 11:21 AM 6.01 H 05:17 PM 0.67 L 11:32 PM 6.81 H 0.7 L 12:01 PM 5.87 H 05:54 PM 0.85 L 6.65 H 06:44 AM 0.84 L 12:43 PM 5.81 H 06:37 PM 1.0 L 6.53 H 07:30 AM 0.9 L 01:29 PM 5.85 H 07:28 PM 1.11 L 6.46 H 08:22 AM 0.87 L 02:19 PM 5.98 H 08:29 PM 1.13 L 6.44 H 09:19 AM 0.71 L 03:14 PM 6.22 H 09:35 PM 1.0 L 6.47 H 10:17 AM 0.44 L 04:13 PM 6.59 H 10:41 PM 0.74 L 6.57 H 11:13 AM 0.09 L 05:13 PM 7.06 H 11:45 PM 0.38 L 6.75 H 12:09 PM -0.29 L 06:11 PM 7.6 H -0.04 L 06:39 AM 6.97 H 01:04 PM -0.65 L 07:06 PM 8.12 H -0.44 L 07:34 AM 7.17 H 01:59 PM -0.96 L 07:59 PM 8.52 H -0.78 L 08:28 AM 7.29 H 02:52 PM -1.17 L 08:52 PM 8.73 H -0.99 L 09:22 AM 7.29 H 03:45 PM -1.23 L 09:45 PM 8.73 H -1.02 L 10:18 AM 7.19 H 04:37 PM -1.11 L 10:40 PM 8.54 H -0.89 L 11:16 AM 7.02 H 05:31 PM -0.83 L 11:37 PM 8.22 H -0.64 L 12:16 PM 6.85 H 06:27 PM -0.44 L -
2017/05/30
Tue
12:35 AM
7.83 H
07:13 AM
-0.36 L 01:15 PM
6.7 H
07:28 PM -0.04 L
2017/05/31
Wed
01:33 AM
7.43 H
08:12 AM
-0.11 L 02:15 PM
6.6 H
08:32 PM
0.29 L
4 SOUTHEAST & COASTAL GEORGIA | MAY 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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Craig James’ Bream Buggin Basics May is here, fishing action is in full swing, and no matter what species you’re after, you are likely to have some great days this month. If you have bream on your mind, especially our famed South Georgia redbreast, Buggin is the way to get them from now to the end of summer. There are numerous lures that catch redbreast well, but none will produce the amount of trophy sized fish, and heart stopping action that a bug fished on top will. For those that don’t know “buggin” is nothing more than pitching a weightless artificial bug, wiggling it seductively on top of the water, and waiting for a Redbreast to explode on it. It’s so simple anyone can do it, and do it well. Starting with your pole set-up, a 10 ft Bream Buster works best for pitching your bug under tree limbs in our rivers. Add a piece of 12 lb test line the length of your pole and you’re set. As far as bug selection goes, there are bream bugs out there in every shape and color imaginable. I’m partial to my new bug the GA BOY Lures Swamp Spider for a number of reasons. I designed it to be simple but very durable, and its larger profile brings bites from the biggest fish in the river. The other thing you will notice compared to other bugs out there is its larger size big nasty Eagle Claw hook. The biggest thing that makes it special is price. At fewer than 3 bucks it’s priced better than anything else out there. Color wise I like them all, but I do lean to the white a lot of the time, especially if the bite gets tough.
low in the summer months. I use a hand controlled motor so I can steer the boat with one hand and bug with the other. With that said though, lots of people use a foot controlled motor when buggin. Whenever you can, go against the current to help hold your boat straight and to help block whatever noise you’re making from the fish. As you work your bug on top remember less is more. I like to pitch it up against the bank and give it slight wiggles and twitches. If nothing takes it after a few seconds I pick it up, whip it back and pitch it again. It’s a super easy way to cover lots of water and catch lots of big fish fast. Regardless of where you fish this month, be sure to give buggin a try. If you have never caught a 1 lb plus panfish on a Bream Buster you’re in for a real treat! Swamp Spiders are available in tackle stores across South Georgia, and if you have any questions about buggin feel free to give me a shout anytime. Good luck, I hope you catch some whoppers!! Craig James 912-282-3838 craigajames052886@gmail.com
As far as where to go, the Satilla and its tributaries are about as good as it gets especially for trophy size redbreasts. The St. Mary’s is also good, as is the Altamaha River. The Lakes and Oxbows that run alongside the Altamaha are particularly good for large bluegills that will hammer your bug. The biggest factor in all of these rivers is stealth. With only 10 ft of pole, and 10 ft of line you have to stay quiet as possible in the boat to avoid spooking fish. I prefer a small Jon boat as most rivers are incredibly
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM | MAY 2017 | SOUTHEAST & COASTAL GEORGIA 5
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March Fish Fry Fare
Fishing with Kids by Tim Cutting
A
grumpy old Captain once told me there was fishing and “fishing with kids”. He wasn’t adverse to small children in that classic W.C. Fields way, but nevertheless, a tad short on patience towards the little people. Let’s face it, doing anything with your children, grandchildren or anyone’s children for that matter, presents moments (perhaps even hours), when it takes everything you got, not to get a little…let’s say frazzled. Compound that with a day on the water where you are “pot committed” with pretty much no Happy Meal or Play Station to turn to, and things can go sideways in a hurry.
B
efore we get carried away, first, realize that these are kids we are talking about. Even those pole breaking, bait eating, button pushing, foot stomping, “I wanna go home” kids. I have also been with kids who never want to go home or quit fishing; the “one more cast” kinda kid (I was that kid, and maybe the foot stomper too). But let’s address the kids that aren’t quite so enamored with a long day on the water pitching jigs all day. While we grownups are obviously out there to do some damage and sore lip our finned adversary, it’s important to put the little people first…even if it means sacrificing a shot at a monster, a limit of fine eating filets, or the “targeted species”.
S
tep one in establishing the “grin”, and developing a life time angler is the target species. Or should I say eliminating the target species. The fish you are now after is the not so elusive “whateverbitis”. The whateverbitis inhabits every place a fish lives in any part of the world. Depending on your locale, this could be a whiting, shiner, sucker, catfish, toadfish, gar, croaker, spot, pinfish, skate, sting ray, or, whatever bites. A child’s first fishing trips should be about them catching something…anything! Many of us anglers would call them trash fish, but to the child starting his angling endeavors these are giant blue marlin and the start of a lifelong passion for fishing. By targeting some of these easier to catch species it is very possible that children can experience the whole thrill of dropping the bait back, feeling the bite, and reeling in the fish! If you are hiring a guide for you and your children, it’s often wise to let the guide know that you just want to catch fish for the kids...of any kind. This may be the fish you had in mind, or it maybe “whaterbitis”. Remember, this needs to be for the kids.
and drink go a long way here. Bring some of those junk foods the kids like. While I am not suggesting changing your kids eating habits to sugary snacks and drinks, this is a special occasion, and a special snack or two will go a long way. Establishing a ritual of sorts, like a certain breakfast or dinner stop on the way to, or from fishing, is a great way to bond and make the day on the water one to remember and look forward to.
F
inally, when a fish is caught, show your child all the nuances of the fish. There may be fish with scales, fish with smooth skin, teeth, no teeth, etc. Do not force your child to hold the fish if he does not want to. Sometimes I give a child a towel to hold a fish. Some fish may be small enough that a kid can hold the line or pole and let the fish “dangle”. Be careful that the fish is not harmed in anyway, and let the child be part of a successful live release. It is important to stress the fact that fish need to be released healthy. If you are catching fish to eat, explain how they are managed as far as limits and size. Although this may be a hard pill to swallow, some children will not last very long on the water, so plan your trip accordingly, giving yourself the option of leaving earlier than you planned. This may even mean just planning a short trip at first. If you take care to make your kids’ first days on the water fun ones, you will have a fishing partner for life. And remember, fishing may not be for everyone (God forbid!), so support your children in all healthy endeavors they may want to pursue.
A
nother important part of your child’s fishing trip should consist of other activities and options. Food
6 SOUTHEAST & COASTAL GEORGIA | MAY 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
Angler Magazine_May 2017_metro.indd 6
4/17/2017 11:19:04 AM
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Southeast GA Lakes and Ponds This is the month to hit the Okefenokee before the bugs get bad (typically by the first of June). The bad news is that the floating weeds (mostly bladderwort) have been dense on the east side (Folkston entrance). Horizontal lures, like spinners, are hard to fish, but you can still pitch sallies into pockets and catch fish, as there are still plenty of fish to catch. A group of teens competing in the Forestry Field Day last month went fishing after their forestry events. They teamed up to catch more than 50 bowfin and fliers in the Folkston boat basin, even with the weeds. Fishing out of the Fargo entrance will avoid the weed issue altogether. You can fling in-line spinners like Dura-Spins or minnow plugs to lily pad flats for pickerel (jackfish) or bowfin (mudfish). For fliers, pitch Okefenokee Swamp Sallies (without a float) on a bream buster pole. Pink and yellow have been the best colors so far this spring on my trips. Warmouth fishing was slow in April, but it should pick up markedly this month. You can catch them well with sallies, but if you want to target warmouth, it is hard to beat a crawfish dabbled around an old, hollow cypress stump. Catfish on the west side should be tearing it up in the warmer water. Worms and shrimp fished on the bottom are the way to catch them. A surprising number of bass were caught around the sill this spring, so you may want to fling a plastic worm or fluke-style plastic for them.
A in “Bang” written on the lure. All you have to do is throw it out and let it wobble to the bottom, twitch it a few times, and repeat. The bass can’t stand that slow fall during the post-spawn period, and they will inhale it. Look for a big wave of bream to bed this month. Keep looking until you find the honey-comb looking beds, and pitch crickets or work an artificial through their lairs. When the fish are deeper between spawning waves, drifting a worm with a split-shot about a foot above the hook will usually find and catch them. I’ve done well in May at Lake Mayers near Baxley for bluegills. A 1/16-oz crawfish or copperfield Satilla Spin has produced lots of fish for me (including a few trophies). Capt. Bert Deener Capt. Bert’s Lures 912-288-3022 Check us out at Bert’s Jigs and Things on Facebook bertdeener@yahoo.com
Pond fishing should be great for bass, bluegill, and catfish this month. Early in the morning you should be able to get a trophy bass to inhale a buzzbait or other topwater. My most productive in blackwater ponds has been a black/gold flash quadblade buzzbait because you can fish it really slowly. One of my best May presentations once the sun gets up is a wacky-rigged worm. I take an Assassin Fat Job Worm, fold it over, and stick the hook right in the middle of the worm. If you’re familiar with Fat Job Worms, that equates to the dot between the B and the Mike Czaplinski from New Jersey fished a Brunswick area pond last month to catch this 5-pounder. He and friends also caught 49 other bass, primarily on Keitech Mad Wag Worms.
8 SOUTHEAST & COASTAL GEORGIA | MAY 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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Coastal Cookin’ with Mrs. Susan As warm weather sets in, salads become a bigger part of our menu. Here is a delicious Shrimp Salad recipe- perfect for a nice lunch on the veranda. Be sure to use Wild Georgia Shrimp, of course!
Shrimp Salad Ingredients: 1 (8oz) package cream cheese ½ cup mayonnaise 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon horseradish 1 tablespoon finely minced fresh onion
Directions: Whip cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, horseradish, minced onion, ketchup, salt and cayenne until light, fold in green onion, celery, peas and shrimp. Cover and chill. Makes 6 servings Serve on a bed of crisp lettuce. Enjoy!
1 tablespoon ketchup Salt and cayenne pepper to taste 2 tablespoons chopped green onion 2 cups diced celery 1 cup frozen peas (soaked in hot water for 4 minutes, then drained) 10 ounces cooked Shrimp
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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM | MAY 2017 | SOUTHEAST & COASTAL GEORGIA 9
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South Georgia Rivers This is the month I wait for all year on our rivers. My love of May in South Georgia started in 1995 when I caught my first 10-pound bass – on the Altamaha. It was 10-lb., 1-oz. and ate a white/chartreuse buzzbait with a gold flat blade. I had been dreaming of catching a 10-pounder until I finally accomplished that goal. Buzzbaits have been a staple ever since when I’m fishing a river in May. The fish have shaken off their post-spawn funk by now and are feeding up until the heat arrives. Buzzbaits will not usually get you tons of bites, but those that eat them are usually bruisers. If the fish are active I throw a flat blade, but if you are having trouble coaxing them, try a quad-blade version. You can barely crawl it and still keep it on the surface. That little bit slower retrieve often allows the bass to get out of the cover and maul it. One buzzbait tip I’ve learned over the years is that when you get a blowup, you keep reeling until you feel weight. If you yank on the bite, you will often pull it away from the fish and are done. However, if you keep it coming and the fish misses on the first attempt, it will frequently come back for another bite. Hard minnow plugs are great lures if the bass want a little extra time to contemplate your offering. Texas-rigged plastic worms are the third tier approach for me this month if I have to go into the cover to coax them out. Keitech Mad Wag worms worked well for me last fall on the Ocmulgee and in lakes all winter, and I can’t wait to pitch the thick, wide wobbling worm in the Altamaha this spring. My best colors have been junebug, green pumpkin candy, and midnight blue. There are other species that will bite well on the Altamaha, but bass get me fired up in June! Last year, my son and I had a great trip trying out our kayaks in the numerous lakes on Big Hammock Wildlife Management Area. We caught an angler award flier along with numerous bluegills, redbreasts, bass, and bowfin. The best lure for us that day was a 1/8-oz. dreamsicle (orange/white with a white blade) colored Satilla Spin. Catfishing should pick up with the warming water this month. Cut bait, shrimp, and worms will fool plenty of channel and blue catfish, while live bait will be the best option for big flatheads.
At the time of writing this, the Altamaha is looking as if the level is going to be perfect in May. I hope that comes to fruition. The water level on the Satilla is looking pretty poor for motorized boats, unless we start getting rains. The good news is that canoes and kayaks are awesome once the water drops below 6 feet at the Waycross gage. The panfishing should be excellent this month as the fish get active. The Satilla Spin bite picked up earlier than usual, and they have been eating them for over a month now. The best colors on our trips last month were red/white, dreamsicle (orange/white), bruised banana gold, and crawfish. As the water clears, I usually do well with stumpknocker and copperfield, also. If you like pitching crickets, you should be able to catch plenty of fish this month. Live bait usually produces a bunch of fish, but artificials typically produce the bigger individuals. Pitching “bugs” will probably pick up significantly in the warmer water this month. If you missed my article on the details of fishing the Satilla, e-mail me and I’ll send you a copy of my Georgia Outdoor News article from spring 2014. To monitor all the Georgia river levels, visit the USGS website http://waterdata.usgs.gov/ga/nwis/rt. Capt. Bert Deener Capt. Bert’s Lures 912-288-3022 Check us out at Bert’s Jigs and Things on Facebook bertdeener@yahoo.com
10 SOUTHEAST & COASTAL GEORGIA | MAY 2017 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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southeast georgia angling
Capt. Bert caught his first Satilla River redbreast on March 18th by casting a 1/8-oz. red/white Satilla Spin in the upper river.
Kenny McClain from Knoxville, Maryland caught this nice 3-pound bass while fishing a Brunswick area pond.
Blake Davis caught this beautiful 5-lb., 14-oz. bass from the upper Satilla River
send photos to: tony@theanglermagazine.com COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM | MAY 2017 | SOUTHEAST & COASTAL GEORGIA 11
Angler Magazine_May 2017_metro.indd 11
4/17/2017 11:19:10 AM
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4/17/2017 11:19:11 AM
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MAY 2017
GEORGIA
3
4/17/17 2:04 PM
By Jim Farmer
F
olks, it’s that time of year again and it’s started already. The other day, I received a text from a buddy. The text read, “It’s here” and showed a string of photos of nice spotted bass, lips adorned with a familiar topwater plug, a Chug Bug popper. The Chug Bug has been a favorite in the spring and fall for topwater bass and stripers the past few years. To be honest, it’s worth its weight in gold here on Georgia’s Lake Lanier. I imagine it will find similar success wherever there are spotted bass and stripers. This time of year, I’ll either be popping or walking the dog with a topwater walking bait. Now, the timing varies on different waters, but here the bait starts moving to the top when surface temperatures reach 70 degrees. Some of the bait is seeking warmer water, and some are entering their spawning season, so they are swimming the surface in the shallows looking for structure to spawn on. In May on Lanier, we are catching the tail end of the shad spawn and entering the blueback herring spawn. In both cases there are plenty of opportunities to find surfacing predatory fish looking for a big meal. In calmer early morning hours when the creeks are glassed over, I pull the boat out into the middle of the creek, shut the motor down and watch for fish chasing bait. They usually give themselves away on points and shorelines. I’ll make a mental note of the areas I’ve seen activity, and then I go to work hitting those locations. Generally, the fish stay and feed as long as bait is in the area. I’ll start out throwing a walking bait like the Lucky Craft Sammy. “Walking the dog” with this bait is very effective, and creates a wake on the surface the fish are looking for. This can be a lock very early in the morning on creek points. But if walking the dog doesn’t get their attention, I’ll break out the popper and start making some noise. “Calling them up” with a popper mimics fish feeding on the surface, and it’s sometimes the ticket when the quieter walking bait doesn’t produce.
This pattern usually goes on for a while, and fishing is easy. It’s when they quit surfacing that times get tough, and you need to go looking. The next place to look is main-lake humps, where the water comes up shallow out of the depths. The pattern is the same as in the creeks, and at times surfacing action on the main lake can last all day. A lot of times these fish go undetected, and throwing topwater baits around shallow-water markers can produce. Whether it’s the creek points and shallows or mainlake humps, there are two baits and two tactics for me in May. You can find me walking the dog with a walking bait or calling them up with a surface popper for some of the best topwater action in the South. Jim Farmer is an avid fisherman and owner of Cast Away Bait and Tackle, a custom tackle shop located just off the shores of Lake Lanier in north Georgia.
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4/17/17 2:04 PM
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MAY 2017
NATIONAL
19
4/17/17 3:03 PM
By Nadeen Welch
G
oing on vacation and trying to decide where your next excursion should be? Fort Myers and Sanibel, Fla. offer something for everyone. Beaches, hiking, kayaking, fishing, camping, birdwatching and shelling abound here. With mild temperatures and low humidity, outside is Photo courtesy of Capt. Terry Fisher/ where you want to be Fish Face Charters after being cooped up through the winter! If fishing is your activity of choice, you have made a great decision. You can take the whole family, only those interested or go it alone. Your best bet for a great day on the water is to hire a professional captain or guide. You can go out on a private charter, where you and your family are the only ones on board, or you may choose a “head boat” where there will be 50 other people fishing with you. Either way, almost everything needed will be provided—boat, license, rod and reel, bait, and a good time. Usually the only things not included are sunscreen and alcoholic beverages. Make sure you ask what is included, just to make sure. Charter guides usually specialize in a certain type of fishing. Inshore fishing trips will have you fishing the flats, mangroves and back-bays. The advantage of inshore fishing is it is usually a more active fishing day, and a windy day won’t ruin your day of fishing. Your guide will move to
Defender
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estled in the south Georgia pines just southwest of Adel, Ga. is 3,500 acres of sportsman’s paradise known as Live Oak Plantation. Campbell Roberts and I arrived with Ranger bass boat in tow via a fence-lined, well-manicured slice of green earth that led us to the lodge at Live Oak Plantation. This is where we met our expert bass fishing guide, Max Gresham. Max is a seasoned bass angler and a member of the Valdosta State Blazers bass fishing team. Max perfectly planned our day of bass fishing. With 10 ponds and more than 500 acres of fishable water to choose from, he had his sights
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set on two main bodies of water that had been producing quantity as well as quality bass for the past several days. What a breathtaking sight it was as we traveled the winding road past Jim’s Backyard Pond just as the fog was lifting off the water. We made our way to our first destination, Gator Pond and launched at about 7:45 a.m. Yes, there is a reason they call it Gator Pond and yes, we did see a couple of resident gators. The pond was impeccable, with its splendor of bass cover including grass, dollar pads, lily pads and submerged timber. We had a deck full of rods with an arsenal of big bass lures tied on: buzzbaits, frogs, flukes, trick worms and jigs. Campbell was first to hook up on 3-pound bass swimming a fluke across visible grass structure. Max and I followed with several bass including two massive topwater explosions on frogs that resulted in the big bass of the day. Gator Pond was very good to us that morning, yielding about 25 bass in about four hours. We took a break and headed back to the lodge for a quick lunch and then it was back to fishing. This time we launched the boat in Outback Pond. This pond was heavy in willow trees, laydowns and grass. The bass numbers rose quickly in this pond, one after another. The action was nonstop, cast after cast, bass after bass. We located a ball of baitfish, and the bass were close by. The fluke bite was the strongest around these schoolers, and we managed to bag another 40 bass in about four hours. We all caught our fair share of bass on both of these fine bodies of water. You would need a week or two to thoroughly fish all the beautiful ponds Live Oak Plantation has to offer. When you visit, you must stay and dine at the lodge. The lodge will accommodate up to 12 guests in 10 rooms. There is a conference center that will accommodate groups up to 20. In addition to some of the best bass fishing in the state, Live Oak Plantation offers quail, deer and turkey hunting. They also offer tower pheasant shoots. For additional recreation, there is a well-manicured golf course that has three greens and three tee boxes per hole that allows for nine different holes of golf, and there is also a driving range. For additional Information on Live Oak Plantation, visit their websites www.fishliveoak.com and www.huntliveoak.com or call direct at 800-682-4868. Live Oak Plantation is located at 675 Plantation Road, Adel, GA 31620.
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UNDER THE SEA 26
Diving in Tonga with my new PLB
A
fter several years of traveling for work, I had enough frequent flyer miles to take my family to Australia to dive on the Great Barrier Reef. After returning home, we heard on the news that two Americans had accidentally been left at sea by the same dive operator we had chartered. The crew miscounted when tracking divers, and by the time the search began, they most likely suffered a slow, agonizing death. That nightmare incident was portrayed in a Hollywood movie. Unfortunately, these “left-at-sea” stories are not uncommon. Boats can become incapacitated; divers can get caught in a current; the possibilities are endless. According to U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmers, the key to getting rescued is to make yourself visible. A whistle or Dive Alert air horn might be enough to catch the attention of your boat if it is nearby. If lost, it helps if you are wearing a brightly colored wetsuit hood or deploy a brightly colored safety sausage. Even better, you can carry signaling devices such as flares, a mirror (requires sun), or glow sticks (at night). A small LED dive flashlight or strobe can be seen from afar—especially if the USCG is searching with night vision goggles. But what if your boat sank and no one was called? What if you are in a country where there is no coast guard? These thoughts rattled around in my head before a recent trip to a remote island off of Tonga. Fortunately, advances in technology continue to provide new solutions. PLBs (Personal Locator Beacons) on the market today are small, waterproof devices designed to alert search and rescue services of your location anywhere in the world. When activated, it transmits a message on the 406 MHz distress frequency which is monitored by the COSPASSARSAT satellite system. The alert is relayed to the nearest Rescue Coordination Center. Once in the area, rescue services pinpoint your location using the 121.5 MHz homing transmitter. Unlike EPIRBs, which are registered to a specific vessel, a PLB is registered to a person and can be carried wherever you go. Before my trip, I bought an ACR ResQLink PLB from Bass Pro for
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$249. It can be used on land or sea, but divers need to know that taking it deeper than 5 meters could cause the device to activate due to pressure changes, so it should either be secured to a flag float on the surface or stored in a dive canister if taken underwater. The increased peace of mind was well worth the price. There are several similar products on the market. The Ocean Signal rescueME PLB1 operates in a similar manner. Nautilus Lifeline makes a “Marine Rescue GPS” which broadcasts a distress message to all AIS equipped ships up to 34 miles away and to the marine radio on your own vessel. The ultimate survival tool is your ability to keep calm and maintain a positive attitude while taking action to make yourself visible. Prepare ahead of time, and your chances of rescue are very good. Safe diving! Sheri Daye is a world-record holder, host of Speargun Hunter, and producer of “The Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo” in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Follow “Sheri Daye” and “The Blue Wild” on Facebook and Instagram.
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CAPTAINS OF FISHER GUIDING 28
A CAPTAIN AND HIS LUCKY LADY, FISHING THE VIRGIN ISLANDS
BY LUKE CAMBELL
R
obert Mitchell hasn’t stopped chasing marlin since childhood, when he would see the species or its larger-finned counterpart, the sailfish, mounted on walls of seafood restaurants. After catching plenty wall-worthy fish in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Gulf of Mexico over the years, Robert chose the Virgin Islands to begin living his dream as a charter captain. Now, he takes guests on his boat, The Lucky Lady, to catch marlin and other trophy fish surrounding St. Thomas and St. John. After visiting St. Thomas frequently over the last 10 years, local mainstays on the island have helped Capt. Mitchell settle in since moving there permanently in January. Mitchell said, “Jimmy Loveland has been great to go over to and get advice. Getting to talk to a legend like Jimmy has been fantastic. Jim on the Black Pearl (a fellow USVI sportfishing charter) came over and welcomed me into town. He is a good guy, and I would do anything for these two people.” The name Jimmy Loveland may be familiar to those who follow sportfishing. Loveland founded Marlin Magazine and the USVI Open/Atlantic Blue Marlin Tournament that runs every August in St. Thomas. In addition to advice from fellow anglers, Lady Luck has loyally followed Capt. Mitchell to teach him the nuances of fishing here. Mitchell explained, “Everywhere I have fished, I have been blessed with good luck in finding boils, birds and porpoise. Birds down here are very few. When you see a bird, you better follow it. When you see the porpoise, you might make one or two passes, but that’s it. The lonely bird has been far more successful. The other places I have fished, you looked for a flock of birds and when following the porpoise, you were just about guaranteed a tuna strike.”
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Another key difference anglers find in the Virgin Islands is distance. In contrast to other destinations Mitchell has fished, the boat ride is short. The South Drop is 6 miles from dock, and the North Drop is only 20 miles. These drops are famous. While fishing, Mitchell has watched the bottom drop from 90 to deeper than 3,000 feet in a matter of minutes. Paying close attention, and staying over the intended depth is important. Capt. Mitchell described a recent trip aboard The Lucky Lady when that awareness paid off for anglers. They started the day trolling around a FAD (fish-attracting device) when four out of six lines hit on a school of blackfin tuna. They put their spread out again, started trolling, and then the line popped with a 180-pound blue marlin. The group also caught a wahoo of about 45 pounds and a 25-pound kingfish. “It was a great day on the boat, and everybody got a chance to sit in the (fighting) chair and take a turn,” said the new captain. Luke Cambell is a co-founder of Fisher Guiding, an online marketplace to find and book fishing guides, which is proud to partner with Capt. Mitchell and The Lucky Lady.
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C
ustom rod building has entered an era of resurgence, with new components, fresh design concepts, and, most importantly, a broad base of sophisticated anglers and creative rod builders driving developments on multiple levels. Today’s avid angler understands the importance of the rod with respect to a given approach or technique. Credit this recognition in large part to the broader segmentation of the markets for fishing rods and lines. Anglers have a much broader selection of both to choose from. More importantly, they have learned to discriminate and apply the right variations to the proper settings. With better understanding and experience, a fisherman begins to dial in on the nuances that make a rod better suited to the technique and personal preferences. Custom rod makers can give an angler everything he wants from essential components to bells and whistles. While “personalization,” artistry and uniqueness drove custom rod making in the past, functionality and comfort are driving custom rod projects today. “I used to have three to five rods that I would use for a given technique,” recalls bass tournament angler and rod builder Chris Adams of Mud Hole Custom Tackle and a member of the Winn Grips pro staff. “One had the guides I liked. Another had a more comfortable reel seat that added to the rod’s sensitivity, but it didn’t have the backbone or action I wanted. Another had the right power and action but didn’t have the components I liked. I realized the easiest way for me to get everything I wanted into one rod was to build it myself, the way I wanted it!” Adams notes that rod grips from Winn (www.winngrips.com) factor into
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many rod-making decisions. The comfort and tackiness of these all-weather grips provide sure-handed angler control. Bass fishermen have driven a lot of technique-specific rod customization. But more and more saltwater anglers are tailoring rods to their task. Many saltwater anglers have taken up custom rod building as hobby or a basement business to build their own rod arsenals. Classes in rod building are available across the country. At the Saltwater Fishing Expo in Somerset, New Jersey, in March, the custom rod craze was evident. Fishermen were building rods for everything from flounder fishing to trolling for big game species. Saltwater anglers often have a more complex set of needs, from guides resistant to corrosion to rod handles that provide adequate control and comfort. A lot of attention at the Winn booth centered around the sneak preview of new tapered rod grips for heavy-duty saltwater fishing, available in multiple lengths and diameters, and the new Winn Rod Handle System. Winn also unveiled a durable and versatile extension of its very popular overwrap, Winn Superior Rod Wrap. Like its predecessor, it can be the primary material in an original rod handle or applied over an existing cork or EVA grip. Winn also will expand its Saltwater Straight Cylinder line of 1.25-inch diameter grips this summer with black grips ranging to 18 inches in length. Get to know a rod builder in your area to create the perfect rod for any technique or style of fishing. Or take up the practice yourself!
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ack when everyone else was rocking a 3.5-inch grayscale fishfinder, Gary sported a color 7. He always seemed to catch fish. One day I had the nerve to ask him, “Hey Gary, how much did that thing cost?” “More than the kayak,” was the deadpan response. That was years ago. Since then, sonars are more and more capable and feature rich, for less scratch. A Lowrance Hook-7 will run you $449, much less than the kayak. Downscan and side imagining are commonplace. Over time, screen sizes grew until Gary was no longer the exception, he was the rule. So how big is too big? The answer depends on your bank balance and risk tolerance as well as the water you fish and the kayak you captain. Five to 7 inches seems like the sweet spot for kayak use. The screens are wide enough to offer high-resolution readability, yet compact enough to stay out of the way of a cast—or your foot. These days the better question might be, “How big is the transducer?” For peak performance, it’s best to mount a modern transducer in direct contact with the water. Some transducers require adapters such as the Lowrance Ready Total Scan plate to fit properly. Alternatively, kayak anglers can go the MacGyver route and craft their own adapters. Where there’s a will and fish to be caught, there’s a way. Just ask Gary.
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10999
LIMIT 3 - Original coupon only. No use on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase or without original receipt. Valid through 9/1/17. At Harbor Freight Tools, the “Compare” or “comp at” price means that the same item or a similar functioning item was advertised for sale at or above the “Compare” or “comp at”
price2017 by another retailer in the U.S. within the past 180 days. MAY NATIONAL 33 Prices advertised by others may vary by location. No other
meaning of “Compare” or "comp at" should be implied. For more information, go toHarborFreight.com or see store associate.
4/17/17 3:04 PM PM 4/6/17 4:35
suzuki spring savings Three Limited Time Offers Make A Good Deal Even Better Suzuki Gives You All Three So You Don’t Have To Choose One Or The Other
Buy a new Suzuki outboard from 25 to 300 horsepower and take advantage of not just one, but ALL THREE Suzuki Spring promotional offers.
Add cash rebates on select models and you can get up to $800 cash back. Plus our Repower Financing is available at attractive interest rates (on approved credit.*)
Just say, “Gimme Six!” and you’ll get six years of product protection. That’s right, you’ll get Suzuki’s three-year limited warranty and Suzuki’s 3-Year Extended Protection Plan at no extra charge.
See your participating Suzuki Marine dealer today and find out how you can get the ultimate deal on the Ultimate 4-Stroke Outboard.
Six Years of Protection at no extra charge on all new outboards 25 to 300 HP.
Cash Rebates on select models. See your dealer for details.
REPOWER FINANCE
Rates as low as 5.99% on new Suzuki outboards (OAC).*
For details and the name of your nearest participating Suzuki Marine dealer, visit www.suzukimarine.com
Gimme Six Extended Protection promo is applicable to new Suzuki Outboard Motors from 25 to 300 HP in inventory which are sold and delivered to buyer between 4/01/17 and 6/30/17 in accordance with the promotion by a Participating Authorized Suzuki Marine dealer in the continental US and Alaska to a purchasing customer who resides in the continental US or Alaska. Customer should expect to receive an acknowledgement letter and full copy of contract including terms, conditions and wallet card from Suzuki Extended Protection within 90 days of purchase. If an acknowledgement letter is not received in time period stated, contact Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. – Marine Marketing via email: marinepromo@suz.com. The Gimme Six Promotion is available for pleasure use only, and is not redeemable for cash. Cash Rebates apply to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki Outboard Motors made between 4/01/17 and 6/30/17. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine.com. Customer and participating Dealer must fill out the appropriate rebate form at time of sale. Customer will have the choice to either apply the cash rebate against the original dealer invoice (Suzuki will credit Dealer parts account) or have a check sent directly to the customer. There are no model substitutions, benefit substitutions, rain checks, or extensions. Suzuki reserves the right to change or cancel these promotions at any time without notice or obligation. * Financing offers available through Synchrony Retail Finance. As low as 5.99% APR financing for 60 months on new and unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors. Subject to credit approval. Not all buyers will qualify. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. $19.99/month per $1,000 financed for 60 months is based on 5.99% APR. Hypothetical figures used in calculation; your actual monthly payment may differ based on financing terms, credit tier qualification, accessories or other factors such as down payment and fees. Offer effective on new, unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors purchased from a participating authorized Suzuki dealer between 4/01/17 and 6/30/17. “Gimme Six”, the Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2017 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.
34
NATIONAL
MAY 2017
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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
4/17/17 3:04 PM 3/12/17 5:04 PM
You could get a discount when you combine your auto and boat policies.
for your boat geico.com | 1-800-865-4846 | Local Office Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Boat and PWC coverages are underwritten by GEICO Marine Insurance Company. Multi-Policy Discount available to auto insureds that have purchased a boat policy through the GEICO Marine Insurance Company. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. Š 2017 GEICO
COMMON CVRS_0517.indd 3
4/17/17 12:07 PM
© 2017 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries
THIS SEEMS TO BE THE PLACE WHERE ALL THE FISH HANG OUT. I THINK I’LL DROP IN.
12”
PROGRAMMABLE
HOT KEYS
PRELOADED
BUILT-IN
BLUECHART® G2 + LAKEVUU¨ HD CHIRP SONAR + CLEARVUU¨ + SIDEVU¨
GPSMAP® 1242xsv
COMMON CVRS_0517.indd 4 Coastal Fishing Ad_US-8.125x10.875-CoatalAngler.indd 1 17-MCJT512 GPSMAP 1224xsv
4/17/17 PM 3/8/17 12:07 9:13 AM