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Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events PHOTO COURTESY OF BOB RICE, THE ANGLER MAGAZINE ATLANTA VOLUME 23 • ISSUE 277
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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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BIG BEND : Mike McNamara • (850) 510-7919 • captmike@coastalanglermagazine.com BREVARD : Chris Milner • (321) 631-1001 • cmilner@coastalanglermagazine.com DAYTONA/NEW SMYRNA BEACH : Don Meadows • (321) 436-5895 • donm@coastalanglermagazine.com FLORIDA KEYS : Cliff Lumpkin • (305) 849-9093 • cliff@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT LAUDERDALE : Gene Dyer • (954) 680-3900 • gene@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT MYERS : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER ORLANDO : Phillip & Giselle Wolf • (407) 790-9515 • phillip@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER MIAMI : Gene Dyer • (954) 680-3900 • gene@coastalanglermagazine.com LAKELAND & SUMTER : Mary Brasher • (352) 598-4219 • maryf@coastalanglermagazine.com NAPLES : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com NC FLORIDA/NATURE COAST : Cary & Lynn Crutchfield • (352) 372-4237 • crutch@coastalanglermagazine.com NE FLORIDA : Danny Patrick • (904) 742-4696 • danny@coastalanglermagazine.com PANAMA CITY/FORGOTTEN COAST : Randy Cnota • (229) 834-7880 • randyc@coastalanglermagazine.com PALM BEACH COUNTY : Barbara Ryan • (561) 373-8040 • barbara@coastalanglermagazine.com SARASOTA : Phil Prevoir • (239) 257-4684 • pprevoir@coastalanglermagazine.com TAMPA BAY : Chuck Atkins • (239) 464-5153 • chuck@coastalanglermagazine.com TREASURE COAST : Misti & Gary Guertin • (772) 285-6850 • treasurecoast@coastalanglermagazine.com
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Owning a Fishing Magazine
This edition of the magazine is being brought to you by your local publisher. Their contact information is shown on the left of this page. They’re doing a great job to make sure that you receive accurate fishing forecasts and marine related information every month. They also ensure that you can easily find a copy of the magazine throughout your community. They also make sure that this magazine continues to be available to you for free. As you read the magazine, you’ll notice that business owners place their ads in the magazine. That’s what keeps this magazine free to the public. Your local publisher of the magazine would appreciate you letting these businesses know that you saw their ad in the magazine and that you appreciate their support of this resource. Our publishers do a great job of providing this resource to your community. You might even consider sending them an email or a call to let them know you appreciate what they do. Everybody enjoys hearing “Good job” from time to time. If you or someone you know would be interested in learning about our franchise opportunities, we would love to hear from you. We want to expand our magazine throughout the country. Owning your own fishing magazine requires hard work and dedication, but it can be a very rewarding profession. Some say “the best job you’ll ever have.” We currently have over 30 locations, and we have been franchising the magazine for 10 years. If you would like to turn your passion for the outdoors into a profession, give us a call. We may have just what you’ve been looking for. Best regards,
Toby Nelson • (228) 623-1761 • tnelson@coastalanglermagazine.com
GREAT LAKES WEST MICHIGAN : Phil Belsito • (616) 957-1714 • phil@theanglermagazine.com
INTERNATIONAL PUERTO RICO/VIRGIN ISLANDS : Ace Bassue • (407) 285-9453 • ace@coastalanglermagazine.com COSTA RICA : Mike Erickson • (561) 262-2242 • mike@coastalanglermagazine.com © 2018. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. Disclaimer: Coastal Angler Magazine / The Angler Magazine will not be held liable for injuries incurred while partaking in activities described herein, or for claims made against products or services provided by advertisers. SAFETY
Ben Martin Editor in Chief info@coastalanglermagazine.com
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Outdoor Apparel FISH HIPPIE FLATWATER COLLECTION SHUCKERHUT PLAID Those who live an outdoor life should be able to represent it in their casual lives as well as “out there.” That’s the idea behind Fish Hippie, which was created by anglers who favor good times with friends, time on the water and “drifting off course” as often as life allows. New for spring 2018 from the Fish Hippie Flatwater Collection, the Shuckerhut Plaid blends on-the-water comfort with casual style of the highest quality. Designed with comfort and versatility in mind, the Shuckerhut delivers a silky-smooth touch with an apt range of movement and flexibility. Hidden-button collars prevent dreaded “collar flare,” while double chest pockets and two back shoulder pleats converge for an elevated level of functional, yet casual, style. The specially created four-way stretch fabric is 30+ upf, wrinkle and stain resistant and is easily worn fishing, as well as to the office or a night on the town. The Flatwater Collection is the latest offering from Fish Hippie for those more at home on the road less traveled. Learn more about Fish Hippie and survey all the lifestyle-driven gear and apparel at www.fishhippie.com.
WWW.FISHHIPPIE.COM
L.L.BEAN ULTIMATE FISHING SHIRT L.L.Bean recently introduced its new Ultimate Fishing Shirt, and it’s exactly what you need for a long day on the flats or a wade trip up your favorite stream. The Ultimate Fishing Shirt is a technical fishing shirt, thoughtfully designed with a combination of fabrics for ease of movement, comfort and durability. It looks good and keeps you dry with moisturewicking fabrics, but what makes it the Ultimate Fishing Shirt is its ability to provide protection from both biting insects and the sun’s harmful rays. With UPF 50+ sun protection and No Fly Zone technology to repel insects, this shirt eliminates two of the most prominent factors that lead to discomfort on the water. It features four chest pockets to hold essential gear, it can be worn tucked or untucked, the sleeves can be rolled up and secured, and an extended collar unrolls from hidden snaps to provide added protection from the sun. The slightly fitted design offers a relaxed fit through the chest and sleeve, with a slightly slimmer waist to both look good and provide for unhindered movement. The Ultimate Fishing Shirt is available in Dusty Sage, Marine Blue and Graystone colors.
WWW.LLBEAN.COM
CAPSMITH REEL ANGLER HEADWEAR
SHIMANO EVAIR BOAT SHOES
Do you need custom headwear? Capsmith Inc. is the No. 1 trusted source for fishing and outdoor enthusiasts with more than 33 years of experience in the headwear industry. A wholesale distributor of fishing headwear, Capsmith has a line of stylish hats designed specifically for anglers. Their Reel Angler headwear collection celebrates life out on the water. Their in-stock Reel Angler collection comes in a variety of cool fish designs including dolphin, marlin, tarpon, sailfish, yellowfin, bass, snook, seatrout and redfish. These five-panel caps feature sublimation printed crown and bill inspired by nautical maps. A 3D embroidered Reel Angler logo on crown adds a premium look to this one-of-a-kind cap that features an extended bill with a green undervisor to avoid water glare. A soft performance mesh back and snapback closure ensures comfort for extended wear. Wholesalers, distributors or custom-made customers can contact Capsmith at 1-800-228-3889 or sales@capsmith.com.
Perfect on the deck of or a boat, Shimano’s new Evair boat shoes offer both style and function for all kinds of fishing. The ultra lightweight EVA midsole provides all-day comfort, and if they get wet, the upper mesh is made from a quick dry fabric. The heel can be bent down to wear like a sandal. Relying on its expertise with cycling shoes from its bicycle components division, and Shimano’s success with its Evair marine/ fishing sandal and award-wining Evair flats boots, Evair boat shoes include design features like a exposed EVA soft material on the inside front sole to better grip a trolling motor pedal. The non-marking sole is welcomed on any boat, plus it provides traction on a wet surface. Designed, developed and manufactured by Shimano, Evair boat shoes are offered in two colors – blue and navy – and in whole sizes from 7 through 13.
WWW.CAPSMITH.COM COLUMBIA PFG SOLAR SHADE ZERO
This woven button-up, longsleeved shirt is fully featured with Columbia’s new Omni-Shade Sun Deflector and OmniFreeze Zero to help keep you cool and protected for long days on the water. This key style for Columbia PFG is strategically zoned and offers the sun-deflecting dots exactly where you need it on the shoulders and back, to help protect against harmful UVA and UVB rays. In addition, this shirt has a sun protection collar, roll-up sleeves, rod holder and Light Rail zippered chest pockets.
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CAPITAL SPORTSMAN ULTIMATE HYBRID The Ultimate Hybrid from Capital Sportsman is more than a great fishing shirt. Capital Sportsman set out to design one shirt that would be functional for any outdoor activity, while being stylish enough for indoor activities – the ultimate
hybrid shirt. Available in three original patterns, four solid colors and limited-edition seasonal patterns, it was designed for comfort and is made of a 100% cotton twill fabric with a baby-soft hand. It also has a special “soft-as-butter” under the arms and in a back vent which provides exceptional ventilation. A relaxed fit provides freedom of movement for casting. Other features include a roll-up sleeve tab, two easy-access chest pockets and a secured zipper pocket for important documents such as a license or passport. There is also a utility loop, which is important if you need to keep that extra fly handy. The Ultimate hybrid already has people talking. Cory “Ruthless” Routh of Ruthless Outdoor Adventures said the Ultimate Hybrid is, “more comfortable than anything I’ve ever tried on. I can go from the field to the office, no problem.”
WWW.CAPITALSPORTSMAN.COM
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Product Reviews
SIMMS CHALLENGER JACKET
KLUCH MAKIN’ MOVES COLLECTION
From bitter early morning cold through late-afternoon storms, the outside elements can be a distraction when you’re zoning in on the end of your line. Simms’ men’s Challenger Jacket fights back against the elements with heavy-duty Toray fabric and fully taped seams for completely waterproof, breathable comfort. Fleece-lined pockets warm your hands in the most numbing weather. An adjustable storm hood packs away in the collar, and a storm flap with water-resistant zippers adds protection from the driving rain. This jacket will keep you warm and dry while you fish, regardless of the type of fishing you do.
Whether you’re making a move toward the hot bite or looking to reset your spread, the new Kluch Makin’ Moves collection has the perfect shirt for every offshore angler. These shirts are available in short or long sleeve cotton. Each shirt sports a classic distressed design with comfort in mind. Head on over to Kluch.com today and get your hands on one before they’re gone!
WWW.SIMMSFISHING.COM
Hooked Soul is an outdoor apparel company offering premium men’s and women’s clothing, specifically designed for extended wear, comfort and with anglers and outdoor enthusiasts in mind. Hooked Soul is an extension of the wearer’s passion for sports, hobbies, and lifestyle experiences with family and friends. Whether fishing in the blue waters of the ocean or freshwater lakes, rivers and streams, each outdoorsman demands comfort and protection from the elements. Hooked Soul was founded in 2014 by three friends and fishing enthusiasts. The inspiration for Hooked Soul came from being outside, the camaraderie and the thrill of the day’s catch. Their passion for an outdoor lifestyle led these three friends to research and bring to market superior performance clothing, the kind they always wanted for themselves. Today Hooked Soul has become an expression and a lifestyle. Hooked Soul, do you have it?
HOOKED SOUL
WWW.KLUCH.COM REALTREE FISHING HAT Realtree has always been about family, friends and the outdoors. As the America’s No. 1 camo pattern, the iconic brand has been providing quality to those who love the outdoors since the 1980s. Last year, Realtree entered into the fishing world with a lifestyle brand ideal for sportsmen and women who trade their bows and guns for fishing rods during the summer months. Realtree Fishing gives an additional connection to the brand they know and respect. Check out their good-looking Realtree fishing hats. They come in several different colors and designs perfect for fishing or everyday wear. These mid-profile hats feature the cool fishhook Realtree Fishing logo embroidered in the front panel, mesh backing and plastic snap closure.
WWW.REALTREE.COM SOFTSCIENCE FIN 3.0
WWW.HOOKEDSOUL.COM
DICKIES WATERPROOF BREATHABLE REFLECTIVE JACKET From the job site to the boat deck, Dickies’ Waterproof Breathable Reflective Jacket has it all. It keeps you comfortable, dry and protected from the elements while providing greater visibility in low light conditions. • Waterproof: The jacket is water resistant and its chest and lower pockets feature waterproof zippers. • Breathable: At just 5.6 ozs., this jacket is lightweight and breathable to keep you comfortable no matter the conditions. • Reflective: For safety, this jacket features enhanced visibility in low light conditions. It appears to light up when light is flashed upon it. 100% Polyester reflective print 10K/10K lamination.
WWW.DICKIES.COM OT WEAR CUSTOM APPAREL OT Wear designs using vivid colors and unique, custom graphics to exceed their customers’ expectations. Their professional designers create custom jerseys and athletic apparel for whatever activity you choose. Distinctive dye-sublimated graphics combined with vivid colors on high performing, comfortable and durable apparel will give you a distinctive edge to stand out from the crowd. Your sponsors will be blown away with how their logos are showcased on your jersey. Let OT Wear outfit you or your team in style with a range of men’s and women’s cuts and
The Fin 3.0 fishing shoe adds a four-eye textile lacing system, an easy-on pull tab and EVA reinforcements on critical toe, forefoot and ankle locations to provide maximum stability in virtually any weather condition. Like all SoftScience shoes, it is lightweight, superbly cushioned and stable, with a woven, breathable reinforced upper. The forefoot water flow system is ideal for worryfree water activity, keeping your feet stable and not slippery. A relaxed fit, the shoes have a removable, washable Trileon insole and Trileon nonmarking, slip-resistant outsole.
WWW.SOFTSCIENCE.COM choice of performance fabrics. They can give you true brand consistency by matching your other marketing materials. Submit your own artwork or let the designers work with your graphics to create highperformance apparel that is unique to you. You will have a stunning, unique look that won’t be matched by others. All of OT’s apparel is made in the USA, from fabric to finished product. Contact them today and let them help you create an extraordinary new look for you or your team.
WWW.OUTDOORTECHWEAR.COM
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FISH & FISHING
Finding The Touch MARK SOSIN
T
oo many anglers blame what they consider the obvious when they are not catching fish. They reason that the fish aren’t hungry, they’re not fishing in the right spot, or the lure they have chosen is not producing the results they expected. Sometimes, it merely takes a subtle touch to turn frustration into success. Although my father fished around the bend many years ago, I still marvel at his skill working a yellow Upperman bucktail in the ¼- or 3/8-ounce size. To this day, I have never met an angler who could come close to matching his success with that single lure. He caught countless species on that bucktail, from striped bass, bluefish and weakfish, to redfish, trout, bonefish, permit and tarpon. Even when I stood next to him and tried to match his every move, I fell far short. What that taught me is that some simple thing in the retrieve (or lack of one) can make a major difference. Let me share a few examples with you. Two of us fishing side-by-side were casting MirrOlures. They were the same model and the same color. He would get strike after strike, while I could barely get a fish to hit my lure. No matter how closely I watched him, I couldn’t detect any difference in the area we fished and the speed of the retrieve. I had to threaten to physically harm him if he didn’t tell me what he was doing. The only difference was that he occasionally vibrated his wrist on the hand
holding the rod. That caused the lure to flash just like a baitfish, and a predator reacted to that instantly. In another example, my friend and I were both fishing a swimming plug with a lip. During the retrieve, it would dive down, but if you stopped reeling the lure would start to float back to the surface. Once again, my partner got strike after strike, and I could barely catch an occasional fish. All he was doing was swimming the plug for a short distance, pausing for an instant, and then continuing the retrieve. Every time he paused, the plug would start to rise in the water column and then dive again when he resumed reeling. The sudden dive made it appear the lure was trying to escape from a predator. That’s all it took. Here’s one more example. The successful angler would start with a rather slow retrieve and then speed it up about halfway back to the boat. If a fish happened to see the plug, the change in speed would make it appear as if the plug were trying to get away and that’s a trigger mechanism. Seasoned anglers who fish artificials and score frequently limit the number of lures they carry and develop a touch for each one that produces strikes. Basically, there is more than one way to fish any artificial. My suggestion is that you keep trying a variety of subtle approaches until you become the angler that others envy and try to copy.
For more about artifical lures with Mark Sosin, visit
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FLY FISHING
Fly Reel Backing
L
osing a big saltwater gamefish after it is hooked and decides to head for the horizon is, in many instances, the result of filling your reel with backing that is either too short or too light. It can ruin an otherwise wonderful trip. Also, making wrong choice in backing can lose you not only your fish, but worse, it can cost you a very expensive fly line. Twenty-pound backing is a good choice for most inshore saltwater fly fishing situations, and 30-pound backing will more than fill the bill in getting you through a tussle with an uncooperative bluewater gamefish. The Old School Frame Of Mind: Dacron These days there are many choices when it comes to choosing backing for your fly reels. Some anglers prefer braided backing because of its small diameter. I prefer the tested and trued performance of standard hi-vis Dacron. Why? Because, It’s easier on the fingers while fighting big fish, and it does not have the tendency—as braid does—to dig into itself when reeled back onto the fly reel. How Much Do You Need? Your fly reel should house a minimum of 175 yards of 20-pound Dacron backing. Many inshore saltwater gamefish will make initial runs of from 75 to 100 yards before they turn and settle into a fighting mode. For bluewater fly fishing, 30-pound Dacron or gel spun is standard. A minimum of 300 yards should fill these reels. Big bluewater gamefish like the tuna and marlin will run off 200
yards of backing before you’ve had time to say, “Come back and fight like a man!” These fish can also dive to great depths, thus making essential an abundant supply of backing. One caveat to remember is “Don’t short-line your backing.” Best Color For Backing? The phrase “getting into your backing” always arouses excitement through a saltwater fly fisherman’s being each time he hears it. There is nothing more exciting than witnessing one hundred yards of water-shedding backing slicing through the water, pulled by a bonefish, tarpon, sailfish or marlin. It’s a common occurrence in saltwater fly fishing. When this happens, the color of your backing is essential in tracking the fish’s direction. Is it swimming at an angle or is it sounding. Make no mistake, eventually every saltwater fisherman experiences this. High-visibility backing will help determine how to fight the fish. For instance, when tarpon fishing it is important that you are able to turn a tarpon’s head during the tussle, a move aimed at keeping the tarpon off balance and assuring the fish is brought quickly to the boat. Also, the use of hivis backing allows the angler a better sight-line in tracking the fish’s direction so pressure may be applied in an opposite direction. The best colors? As I stated above, I prefer hi-vis backing in bright yellow or bright orange, both highly visible backing regardless of weather conditions or water coloration.
For Tackle Box Essentials from Bowman, go to
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You could get a discount when you combine your auto and boat policies.
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. © 2018 GEICO
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hen Yamaha introduced the 19-foot 190 FSH center console boat in 2016, the company tapped into a segment of boaters who want to fish more than runabout owners, but who also want to tow and entertain more than other center console owners. By all accounts, Yamaha’s “family sports hybrid” concept proved to be a success. Featuring an innovative, yet familiar, center console deck design, a performance sports boat hull, and the versatility unique to jet power, the 190 FSH is attracting more younger, first-time buyers than traditional center console brands, and is already the second best seller in the category. For 2018, Yamaha is expanding their FSH offering to include a 21-foot model that is better suited for rougher waters and delivers the added peace of mind that comes with dual engines. And because the motors and driveline are tucked in the hull underneath the captain’s leaning post, the boat provides an open 360-degree experience that fishermen love. The 210 FSH includes all the features that fishing enthusiasts require, along with family features that are perfect for an entire day out on the water to include water sports, swimming and lounging—all in the same boat, and at a competitive price starting under $40,000. The 210 FSH is available in three variations that include the base model 210 FSH, an upgraded 210 FSH Deluxe, and the flagship 210 FSH Sport that offers the features of the Deluxe with the addition of a custom T-top. All three models come with Yamaha’s award-winning TR-1 High Output marine engines. 210 FSH Walkthrough Starting at the bow, there is comfortable, padded seating with ample room for four adults. The padded cushions snap off, so they are easy to store or leave at home when you are heading out for a fishing trip. Under the starboard bow seat is an insulated fish locker, and there is a dedicated locker for a full-size Danforth anchor. There is more storage below the port bow seat, in the sole, and inside two large consoles. In front of the helm console is more seating, and the console lifts up to reveal a cavernous storage area that also serves as a changing room or a head compartment thanks to the curtain enclosure included on the Deluxe and Sport models. The 210 FSH is loaded with the angling features one would ex-
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pect in a premium center console boat to include coaming pads, vertical and horizontal holders for 14 rods and a 26-gallon aerated live well. A cool feature you won’t find on other center console boats is Yamaha’s exclusive Jet Wash system that uses pressure from the jet pumps for easy cleanup of the cockpit, whether you land a big fish or the kids fill the boat full of sand. The Helm The helm is thoughtfully designed with a simple-to-remove windshield for low profile storage, a stainless-steel sports steering wheel, easy access to all boat control switches, a locking glove box and an open area to flush mount electronics such as a fishfinder, a GPS unit and other marine electronics. The 210 FSH comes equipped with Yamaha’s 4.3” Connext Touchscreen Display, which is NMEA compatible to send vital engine information to third-party electronics. Behind the helm is a padded leaning post with a backrest (on Deluxe and Sport). Under the leaning post is a dedicated space for a removable cooler. The Transom The transom area on the FSH Series is unlike any other center console boat on the market. Since the engines and drivetrain are in the hull, the entire back of the 201 FSH is open for unobstructed casting and watersports towing. The 210 FSH features Yamaha’s signature two-tier swim platform that sits low at the water’s edge. A retractable stern ladder makes reboarding after swimming a breeze. The transom also includes a tow eye for watersports. Like all Yamaha boats, the 210 FSH features Yamaha’s patented clean-out ports that allow for the removal of debris from the jet pump without having to get in the water or swim under the boat. Rounding out the FSH’s list of innovations is the addition of Yamaha’s Articulating Keel, the latest in Yamaha’s Advanced Responsive Handling features. The Articulating Keel is an extension of the boat’s keel that moves and tracks along with the jet pump nozzle to provide comfort, stability and straight-line tracking at all speeds. For buyers attracted to the iconic styling of a center console boat, but need more versatility to appease the family, look no further than the Yamaha 210 FSH.
For more on Yamaha’s 210 FSH Series, go to
ANGLERLIFE.CO
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Center sp W
ho doesn’t have a smile on their face when they’re spending time on the water? You can’t help yourself. Boating is getting away from it all. And getting away from it all is always more fun with friends. This is where the United States Power Squadrons – America’s Boating Club comes in. Enjoying your time on the water with family and friends starts with being safe and responsible while having fun. That’s what makes America’s Boating Club different than most boating organizations. For over a hundred years, the organization’s focus has been on providing unsurpassed boating safety education. But the organization’s leadership and members are passionate about a membership that doesn’t end on Sunday and doesn’t care if the calendar says it’s winter. It’s about being together and building a community through a variety of events like parties, meetings and even just getting together for no reason at all. Driven by this passion, United States Power Squadrons – America’s Boating Club, the country’s largest nonprofit boating organization, just launched its new logo. This is the first of several planned updates in the organization’s new brand image and identity. Changes to the organization’s website, social media platforms and collateral are expected in the coming weeks. “We are United States Power Squadrons, but we are also America’s Boating Club,” said Louie Ojeda, chief commander, United States Power Squadrons. “This is not just a name change, it describes what we do. We go boating and have fun doing it. Over time, our squadrons have evolved to become social clubs as well as providers of high quality boating education – allowing members to enjoy the sport and camaraderie of boating and any number of activities that keep us together. Togetherness is what this lifestyle is all about. We joined the organization for the boating education, but we stayed for the friends.” Offering classes For Boaters, By Boaters in boat handling, navigation, boat maintenance, weather and related subjects, United States
Power Squadrons – America’s Boating Club serves as a virtual “yacht club” with boating and social activities for all types of recreational boaters. With over 27,000 members organized into 356 squadrons across the country, America’s Boating Club is comprised of families who contribute to their communities by promoting safe boating through education. Squadron members are vital to strengthening the communities
they live in and know it’s important to live their values by giving back through public service and volunteer opportunities. Members provide courtesy vessel safety checks, help the NOAA’s National Ocean Service keep nautical charts accurate and organize beach cleanups. “Our commitment is to continue learning, teaching, laughing and helping our fellow members enjoy boating,” continued Ojeda. “Whether you’re passionate about cruising, racing, making new friends, volunteering in your community or learning from experienced boaters, your local squadron has the resources you need to engage your passions and, perhaps, instill some new ones.” In February of 2017, the United States Power Squadrons announced its America’s Boating Club co-brand to its squadrons, following an almost yearlong re-naming exercise. To learn more about United States Power Squadrons – America’s Boating Club, visit www.americasboatingclub.org.
Join in the Fun!
United States Power Squadrons is America’s Boating Club Learn boating skills. Engage with boating friends. Connect with the boating community.
Learn more at www.americasboatingclub.org
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llebroc_
SOUTHEAST
By Randy Cnota
S
pring means one thing to me… bedding bass! This is that magical time of the year when giant bass come to the shallows to procreate. Depending on where you fish, the first waves of bedding bass could show up in February or earlier, and in some places the spawn stretches through the spring and into summer. Their movement is affected by moon phases somewhat, but more so by water temperature. Once it’s in the 60-degree range, start combing the shallows for white spots where they’ve fanned out a bed with their tails.
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Once you’ve located them, it is important to understand that they’ve located you. Bass are extremely aware of their surroundings. This makes it difficult at times to trigger a fish to take a lure. I like to run through an area with the trolling motor on high and put a 6-foot tomato stake right smack in the middle of the bed that’s holding the fish I intend to catch. Then I leave the area and allow the fish to calm down. During this waiting period, I might spend an hour doing the same thing in another area or probe the deeper areas surrounding the flat looking for pre- or post-spawn fish. Fish will be in all three spawning stages throughout spring, and any shallows that hold fish will have fish in the deeper water nearby. After an hour or so, sneak back quietly into the area you’ve staked out. Pole in, let the wind blow you in or troll in at a very low speed. Remember, you must be quiet, which means no banging around. Have everything you need on the deck of the boat. This is when a shallow-water anchoring system is worth its weight in gold. Minn Kota Talons and Power Poles are the premier systems available. Other less costly ways to anchor a boat are available as well, like Boatsticks at boatsticks.com. You’ll want to position your boat far enough from the bed to not spook the fish, but close enough to cast several yards beyond the target. You need two Texas-rigged baits—a Z-Man Grass KickerZ and a Punch CrawZ. These baits float in the upright position, which tells a bass that something is feeding on her eggs. Swim the Grass Kicker over the bed several times. This will get the fish fired up. Then hop it right into the bed and stop it. Give it a pulsating action. If this doesn’t provoke the fish to eat, try hopping the Punch CrawZ on the bed. Sometimes you have to go back and forth with those baits to entice a strike, but often you will get them to eat right away. When you do this enough, you’ll learn to understand the fish’s behavior. If a fish runs big circles away from the bed and is slow to come back, it might not be catchable. If she displays aggression and stays close to the bed, that’s a catchable fish. Randy Cnota is co-publisher of the Panama City/Forgotten Coast edition of Coastal Angler Magazine.
GREAT FISHING REQUIRES GREAT REST!
Boater’s Welcome! Capt. Mike McNamara
(850) 510-7919
or email redfish@stmarksoutfitters.com
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MARCH 2018
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By Capt. Chester Reese
W
ith winter on the way out, pompano and cobia start their migration from the south, up through the Gulf of Mexico, to reach spawning areas. When the water reaches 70 degrees, the hunt for these great eating fish begins. Both are hard fighting fish, offering anglers amazing fishing opportunities all over Franklin County. To many people, pompano are the most excellent eating fish in the Gulf of Mexico. Some anglers work to be experts, understanding what time of day and tide range is best and exactly what tackle to
Discover
pick, so that they know when it’s best to grab a rod and go. You can catch them from the shore or a boat, and they’re perfect for firsttime anglers with limited experience. When water temps get right, they come in large schools to feed and spawn. Some reside in our waters all summer, so don’t give up on them in the warmer months. The most commonly used set-up is a two-hook dropper rig baited with sand fleas or pieces of fresh shrimp. White bucktails and special pompano lures work well too. Tip them with fleas or shrimp and work them slowly on the bottom just inside the sandbars close to the beach. As the migration moves through, you can find them over our grass flats. Cobia get my juices flowing in the spring. These fish can go over 50 pounds and provide anglers a catch of a lifetime. Another migrating species, they’re also arriving with the warmer waters. Cobia are found worldwide and are prized for their bountiful, white delicious meat. Structure of any kind attracts and holds these fish, and it’s not uncommon to find them in schools around wrecks or buoys. They also like to cruise the beaches where they can be sight fished from boat or shore. Prime baits for taking cobia are crabs, shrimp, fish and eels, but lures catch them all the time, too. Work baits both on the surface and on the bottom, since they inhabit all areas of the water column. When the bite is on, it can be a frenzy to hook and fight these bruisers. Even after fighting hard for a long time, when boated they can slap and jump until subdued. Be careful of the strong tail and dorsal spines. We have a great fishery for cobia and pompano in our Franklin County waters, and some of the best captains and guides that can put you on them. Visit our local tackle shops in East Point or St. George Island, and they’ll set you up to successfully catch and prepare these special fish. Contact Capt. Chester Reese and Natural World Charters at (850) 228-9060. For a complete list of rentals, charters, supplies and more, visit www.floridasforgottencoast.com.
Florida’s Forgotten Coast
Your fish is waiting. Visit Floridasforgottencoast.com/ca for complete launch, marina, guide and tackle information
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I Fs Bay & OF hOre Fi ts, Come Fish With Us! shing a Fl
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n February, the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management council took steps toward turning over management of the Gulf red snapper fishery to the Gulf states. By approving Exempted Fishing Permit (EFP) applications for each of the five states on the Gulf of Mexico, the council opened the door for a pilot program that would allow each state to manage recreational fishing for red snapper during 2018 and 2019. Seasons for red snapper harvest would be determined by the respective states, and red snapper landings would be monitored by the states. State seasons would close when a state’s quota is caught. These EFPs are issued for scientific studies, and this study will determine the effectiveness of state management of the recreational red snapper fishery. At the federal level, NOAA Fisheries now must rule on whether or not to approve the program for implementation.
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Surprising Winter is the Best Planting Time
I am often asked when is the best time to plant fruiting plants. My answer is usually the same; the best time is 20 years ago or today. The second best time to plant is during the winter months. Plants are dormant, and can be easily shipped and planted with no stress on the plant because there is not a lot of maintenance once the plant or tree has been planted. Simply dig a good hole, water thoroughly
at planting, and take the rest of the winter off. Even though there are no signs of growth above ground, the root systems will have time to get adjusted to their new location and begin to initiate new root growth. There are plenty of advantages of growing your own edibles. First of all, you know what has been done over the course of the growing season from a chemical stand point. Second, the fruit just taste
better coming out of your home orchard versus buying fruit from the grocers that have little to no flavors. Thirdly, it is good for your soul and you will feel more connected to the environment and nature. Whether it is an apple tree, muscadine vine or a blueberry bush; now is the time to plant. Let’s Grow Together. Greg Ison, Ison’s Nursery and Vineyards, 800733-0324, www.isons.com
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Fish until the cows come home.
Here in The Florida Keys & Key West, you can run-and-gun for dolphin in the morning, fly a kite for sailfish in the afternoon and battle giant swordfish deep into the night. So come down and milk the world’s best deep-sea fishing for all its worth.
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Islamorada On The Fly
S
TOM SCHLICHTER
andy Moret pointed to port: “10 o’clock!” he said in a hushed voice. “Lead them.” It took a second for me to sight in, but a moving shadow just beyond the bow brought things into focus. A pod of 70-pound tarpon were running a channel edge and we were perfectly positioned for an intercept. Late with the cast, I dropped my streamer on the nose of the lead fish, which promptly turned and powered into oblivion across the shallow flats of Florida Bay, compatriots in tow. Moret smiled and politely let me off the hook. “Happens all the time down here,” he said. “We’ll get another shot.” Chalk one up to lessons learned. A heavy front was moving in, and what had been a drizzly morning suddenly turned threatening, sending us racing back to port for a round of refreshments at the Lorelei Marina (www.loreleicabanabar.com/ marina-and-fishing). With the Florida Keys steadily rebounding from the devastating effects of Hurricane Irma, anglers across the country are once again making plans for an assault on the stellar flats fishery here. Featuring tarpon, bonefish, redfish, snook and sea trout, the shallows of Florida Bay and Everglades National Park on the village’s lee side are ideal for fly fishing and Moret, one of the founding fathers of long-wand sport in these waters, couldn’t be happier. “We still have a way to go before everyone is back on their feet, but we are getting there,” he said in a recent interview. “As for the fishing, it’s bounced back nicely.” As a guide and outfitter, Moret (www.floridakeysoutfitters. com) logically suggests first-timers to the area head out with a professional skipper. “It’s the quickest way to learn the intricacies of tempting local gamefish,” he explained. Still, he noted that the
fishing in these parts is consistent enough that those launching a kayak or even fishing from shore around bridges and passes have a chance to score. “The most important thing in the Keys is to practice your casting – especially when flyfishing,” he advised. “It’s vital to make a few casts in every spot you stop to factor in the wind, current and water depth courtesy of Sandy Moret before you even see the Photo Sandy Moret shows off a chunky Islamorada fish.” snook taken on the fly. Moret, recently honored with 2018 Fly Fisherman Conservationist of the Year Award by the Bonefish Tarpon Trust (www.bonefishtarpontrust.org), works a wide range of patterns but does have several favorites. He likes a size 4 creamand-tan Merkin with lead eyes for bonefish. For silver kings, a Keys Tarpon Streamer in purple and black is his choice for murky water. To target snook and redfish, he throws purple Deceivers in discolored water and yellow and white in clear water. Concentrate your efforts on rising tides to avoid groundings, he cautions, and keep moving until you find the fish. Getting to Islamorada is easy. Find your way to Miami or Fort Lauderdale and head south on U.S. 1. Once there, you’ll find plenty of places to stay including the world class Cheeca Lodge (www. cheeca.com) and Amara Cay Resort (www.amaracayresort.com).
Lake Erie Experienced
Record Walleye Fishing In 2017
Photo courtesy of Capt. Wes Carlton
D
uring the 2017 season, walleye anglers on Lake Erie experienced the highest recorded success in nearly 30 years. “The New York State waters of Lake Erie are world famous for outstanding angling opportunities for walleye, smallmouth bass and yellow perch,” said DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos. “Our Lake Erie waters have consistently ranked among
the top three most heavily fished waters in the state, and the fishery generates more than $26 million in economic activity annually. Anglers should take advantage of Lake Erie’s current conditions and experience this world-class walleye fishery for themselves in 2018.” DEC has conducted an angler survey on Lake Erie to estimate fishing quality and fish harvest annually since 1988. In recent years, walleye fishing quality has been generally increasing. Survey results for 2017 revealed record-high walleye catch rates that are nearly three times greater than the 30-year average. DEC estimates that anglers harvested more than 70,000 walleyes in 2017, a level not achieved since 1989. This exceptional fishing was due in large part to contributions of strong walleye reproductive success in 2010, 2012, 2014, and 2015. Recent evidence also suggests that walleye reproduction was strong again in 2016. Walleye are one of the most popular gamefish in New York, as they put up an exciting fight during the catch and make for tasty meal on the table. Walleye are aptly named because of their unique eyes that have a reflective layer of pigment called the tapetum lucidum, which allows them to see very well at night and during other low-light periods. This layer also gives walleye their “glassy-eyed” or “wall-eyed” appearance. Lake Erie is continually ranked among the world’s top walleye fishing destinations by angler publications, with an abundance of trophy-size walleye ranging from 8 to 10 pounds. Local tournament winners often score fish exceeding 11 lbs. Given that walleye typically live 10 years or more in Lake Erie combined with excellent reproduction rates in recent years, anglers should experience continued, exceptional walleye fishing in future years.
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Some Early Spring Fishing Trip Preparation Tips
March is a transition month. The variable weather found during this month impacts fishing on area waters. A series of warm days will have the fish returning into shallow water, making them easier to locate and catch. However, the return of cold weather fronts will send the fish into deeper water once again. With some good angling days to be found during this month, and spring fishing just around the corner, we need to have our equipment in working order. This is particularly true for our boating equipment. Your boat and engine are an important fishing investment allowing you to access waters that would otherwise be inaccessible. Preventative maintenance is essential during the fishing and boating off season. You should have an established routine to ensure that your boat and motor is operable when you want it to be operable. There are many simple things that you can do that are inexpensive and can be completed with limited mechanical expertise to insure the reliable operation of your fishing vessel. During this month, if not earlier, run some gasoline through your outboard engine making sure that it starts up. Hopefully, you put some gasoline stabilizer into your boat’s gas tanks, making sure that the gasoline has not destabilized and gummed up your engine. Though I attempt to use non-ethanol
gasoline in my outboard motors, such is not always available. Therefore, attention to the quality and stability of fuel remaining in your boat and engine after use is required. Make sure that your outboard gas line primes and has no gasoline leaks. During this start up routine, ensure that the engine’s water pump is pumping water. Check the various engine gauges to ensure that they are operational. Check the trolling motor and cranking batteries to ensure that they are holding an electrical charge. I have found that the extremely cold weather encountered in Georgia and Alabama during late December and January took its toll on marine and automobile batteries. Other marine maintenance tasks that you should complete include maintaining a charge on all marine batteries. Check the operation of your trolling motor, bilge and livewell pumps. Ensure that marine accessories such as depth finders, PowerPole, and similar devices are operational. Make sure that your boat’s navigational lights are functioning. Don’t forget about your boat’s trailer. Check to ensure that the tires are in good condition with greased and sound wheel bearings. Are all your trailer’s bolts and screws tight with operational trailer lights? Ensure that the trailer’s winch is working and effectively winches and holds the boat
on your trailer. This may protect your boat and motor when encountering sudden and dangerous traffic situations while trailering your boat. A good boating checklist starts before the boat enters the water. It is important to keep abreast of minor maintenance activities to ensure the reliable operation of your boat and motor. Having a reliable, easily accessible marine mechanic with a good turnaround time in providing marine repairs is indispensable. These services are essential for the long term maintenance and operation of your boat and motor. Enjoy the early spring fishing season. Be safe on the water. Dr. Andrew Cox is a contributing writer to outdoor publications and a member of the Georgia Outdoor Writer’s Association. Dr. Cox financially supports his fishing habits as Professor Emeritus at Troy University, Phenix City, Alabama. Contact him at andrewtrout@aol.com.
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MARCH 2018
by Andrew A. Cox
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Kayak Korner - Getting Your Kayak Ready for Spring
by Will Clements, Nucanoe Fishing Team Instagram: @rivermaverick @riverrenegades It’s been a rough winter here in Georgia. Between the bitter cold, snow, and now heavy rains, we’re all feeling the effects of cabin fever. So, I thought I’d go over some things that you can do to make sure you and your kayak are ready for warmer weather. First, a good scrub and rinse. Did you wash your kayak before you put it up for the season? If not, it’s always good to give it a wash to keep it looking fresh and to keep dirt and grime build up from affecting your kayak’s vital functions. Be sure to check hatch gaskets for dry rot and make sure the inside of the hull is aired out to prevent mold and mildew. After washing your kayak, try wiping it down with an aerospace protectant such as 303 or Armor All. This acts as a sunscreen for your kayak and keeps the plastic from breaking down during long sunny days on the lake. After washing, go through and check all the parts and accessories to make sure they are in working order. (Double check your drain plug.) Be sure to check deck bungees. If you left them pulled tight all winter, they might not hold things down very well this summer.
It’s always a good idea to store your kayak with all bungees loose so that they don’t lose their elasticity. Also, consider storing your kayak with the hatches open to keep the gaskets from being flattened and losing their seal. If you need to replace any parts, now is the time to do it. This way, you won’t find out about it on that first spring fishing trip. Once your kayak is all good to go, check through your other essentials to make sure they haven’t dry rotted or walked off. These are things like your paddle or pedal drive, your PFD, whistle, headlamp or light source, etc. Rats and mice seem to love eating/nesting in PFD’s left outside, so be sure to check for those; you wouldn’t want any furry hitchhikers on your first trip. (Might make good bait though) Now that all the dirty work is done, it’s time to go through the fun stuff: rods, reels, tackle boxes/ milk crates, etc. Wipe down your rods to remove any dirt, and be sure to check line guides for any nicks or scratches from last year. You don’t want to lose a big one from a worn old line guide. You can run a Q-tip through the guides to clean them and find any sharp edges or chips that may need smoothing out or replacing. Be sure to clean and lube your reels and re-spool new line on any reel that needs it. Then go through your tackle boxes to check for any terminal tackle that may have rusted. It’s always a good idea to store your tackle trays open in a dry place when you’re not using them. As kayak fishermen, our tackle does tend to get wet more often than folks in big boats, so be sure to be extra vigilant in this area. Check out Plano’s Hydro-flo tackle boxes that allow baits to dry out in the box, or make your own with a small drill bit. Water tight tackle boxes can also work, but I have found that I end up putting a wet bait back in the box and sealing it up, which ends up sealing its rusty fate. Don’t forget to go through your soft plastics and make sure to stock up on that one lucky color from last year!
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Local Lakes & Forecasts West Point Lake
Lake Seminole
Forecast by Capt. Keith Hudson Keith Hudson Guide Service hudsonsprobass@gmail.com
706-884-1483 or 706-882-1743 Bass: Good - Expect big changes as we move into March. Warming weather and a stained lake should move many of the largemouth shallow quickly, especially when we have a decent warming trend. Expect the largemouth bite to continue to be good around any shallow wood or brush, rip-rap rocks or around shallow baitfish schools. Shallow water baits such as chatter baits, square-bill crankbaits and Rat-L-Traps should work effectively. Spinnerbaits and jig-n-pigs are also producing some fish around wood and rip-rap. One of the main keys to this type of shallow fishing is to look for warmer stained water. A ditch or creek run sometimes helps to bring warmer water into an area, especially after a warm rain. Dark chunk rock and red clay retain heat and attract bass. Fishing for spots can be awesome as they will start to bed in March as well. Small crankbaits or Carolina rigged finesse worms will catch fish on almost any gravel bank. Linesides: Good - The river run starts up in March, and how good it gets usually depends on weather and water conditions. What you don't want is really muddy and cold water below 50 degrees. I usually start out with cut bait soaked in garlic spray in water temps around 60 or lower. Live shad usually work better in water temps of 60 or higher. Start around Ringer Access and follow the fish upstream as the water warms. Stripers mixed with hybrids and white bass can continue to school on top throughout early spring as well. The schooling fish are mostly less than 3 pounds or so, but there are some bigger fish mixed in, as well. Gulls and loons are also still out there now to help you pinpoint the schooling linesides. The mouths of Yellow Jacket, Wehadkee and Maple Creeks have all been producing some fish. Downlining with live shiners will also work. Target drop-offs near the channel or the top of humps. Trolling with mid-depth crankbaits, Alabama Rigs, bucktail jigs and vertical jigging with spoons have also been producing in these same areas. The key is finding a little clearer water. Crappie: Good. A few warm days in a row will drastically improve the crappie fishing. Good numbers of crappie are already being caught in the shallows on minnows and jigs under a float, especially in the afternoons. Blowdown trees and brushpiles in 3 to 6 feet of water are holding fish as well. Trolling for crappie usually kicks into high gear soon. Whitewater and Yellow Jacket Creeks almost always seem to turn on this month. Some fish are being caught by drop-shotting minnows over or near deeper brush as well. Expect the shallow bite to turn off in the event of an extended cold snap or get even better with an extended warming trend. Hopefully the water will clear up a little as we move into March. Trolling always seems to work better in clearer water. Overall, March is probably the BEST month for size and numbers of crappie. Expect many of the crappie to bed on the full moon in late March. 4 SOUTHWEST GA EAST AL
MARCH 2018
Forecast by Guide Paul Tyre paultyrefishing@yahoo.com 850-264-7534 Water temp.: 63 degrees, water level: full pool, water clarity: slight stain.' Bass fishing is on fire on Lake Seminole! The bass are staging and/or starting to get on their beds. They are being caught in the mornings on lipless crankbaits like a Strike King Red Eye Shad. In the afternoons, Senkos in green pumpkin have been successful when fished around the sand bars. We had a lot of fishing tournaments going on during February. The FLW College Tournament brought young anglers from all over the US to Lake Seminole to compete. It took 25 pounds to win it. Then the FLW Costa Southern Division will be here during the first weekend in March. The last three weekends, the local tournaments have been taking over 30 pounds to win. Needless to say, there have been a lot of boats out on the lake between the bass, the crappie and the shellcracker anglers. Crappie are starting to go on their beds and are being caught with minnows and jigs. They have been selling out of minnows at Wingate's Lunker Lodge, and they're only open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. We've seen some huge crappie coming in by the coolers-full and have been invited to quite a few fish frys in the Bass Island Campground. Duck season is over, but we're still seeing a lot of wood ducks and redheads out on the lake. They'll be gone soon when the weather warms up. The geese are starting to fly home as well as the coots. Miss Gale and I have sure enjoyed sitting on the porch watching all the ducks getting their feathers ready for the flight back home. We've been seeing a few shellcrackers coming in, and they are being caught on wigglers. They have a good size to them, and we expect that they'll really turn on soon.
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Lake Oconee Forecast by Ken Sturdivant ken@southernfishing.com
PANAMA CITY TIDES - MARCH 2018
DATE
HIGH
AM
Lake Oconee is full with water temperatures in the 40’s. The lake is muddy up the river, stained from Sugar Creek up to I-20, and clear in Richland Creek and on the south end. Bass fishing is slow. The best bite lately has come on the spoon fished on the humps and road beds on the south end of the lake. Use your Lowrance to locate the fish on the sides of the humps and then drop a spoon into them. You can also find some fish in the river bend area of the lake just off the river channel. They will be as deep as 30 feet. Some of the bigger fish have come in this area. Some fish are starting to show up under docks off the main channel. They a coming on jigs fished up under the docks very slowly. Striper fishing is fair. The best fishing has been in the middle of the lake from Lick Creek to River Bend. Use your Lowrance to locate the schools and you can catch them with spoons and live bait. I have been using bass minnows, but shad will also work. You can use the birds to locate some bait, and the stripers will be close by. The afternoons have been a little better as far as production. The good thing now is the fish are big. Crappie fishing is slow. The fish have moved into deeper water and out to the mouths of the creeks. I have seen some fish come from as deep as 30 feet just off the channel in the main lake. These deeper fish are coming on minnows fished just off the river channel. The timber in Sugar Creek has been the best producer in the last few days. You can also find fish between the bridges in Lick Creek. If the water warms up, the fishing will improve. Make sure to stop by Sugar Creek Marina and pick up your spoons and all your tackle needs.
ft
LOW
PM
ft
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ft
1 Thu 10:25 1.0 7:04 -0.4 2 Fri 11:29 0.8 7:30 -0.2 3 Sat 12:53 0.3 7:03 0.0 4:28 0.2 4 Sun 12:31 0.6 12:55 0.4 6:38 0.2 6:35 0.1 5 Mon 1:37 0.4 12:55 0.6 5:42 0.3 8:30 0.1 6 Tue 12:39 0.7 11:22 0.0 7 Wed 12:53 0.9 8 Thu 1:30 0.9 1:20 -0.1 9 Fri 2:17 1.0 2:20 -0.2 10 Sat 3:20 1.0 3:07 -0.2 11 Sun 5:50 1.0 4:47 -0.3 12 Mon 7:19 1.0 5:23 -0.3 13 Tue 8:22 1.0 5:53 -0.2 14 Wed 9:17 1.0 6:15 -0.2 15 Thu 10:13 0.9 6:25 -0.1 16 Fri 11:13 0.8 6:32 0.0 17 Sat 12:56 0.4 6:40 0.1 4:47 0.3 18 Sun 12:18 0.7 1:01 0.5 6:40 0.3 6:16 0.2 19 Mon 1:26 0.6 12:58 0.7 6:05 0.4 7:47 0.1 20 Tue 2:44 0.5 12:41 0.8 5:26 0.4 9:24 0.1 21 Wed 12:56 1.0 11:01 -0.1 22 Thu 1:32 1.1 23 Fri 2:18 1.2 12:54 -0.2 24 Sat 3:15 1.3 2:33 -0.3 25 Sun 4:32 1.3 3:37 -0.4 26 Mon 6:36 1.2 4:29 -0.4 27 Tue 8:08 1.2 5:15 -0.3 28 Wed 9:23 1.1 5:53 -0.2 29 Thu 10:36 1.0 6:17 0.0 30 Fri 11:58 0.5 11:50 0.8 6:04 0.2 4:24 0.4 31 Sat 11:59 0.6 5:47 0.4 5:52 0.3
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MARCH 2018
RISE
SET
6:06 5:43 6:04 5:44 6:04 5:44 6:03 5:45 6:01 5:46 6:00 5:46 5:59 5:47 5:58 5:48 5:57 5:48 5:56 5:49 6:55 6:50 6:53 6:50 6:52 6:51 6:51 6:52 6:50 6:52 6:47 6:53 6:47 6:53 6:46 6:54 6:45 6:55 6:44 6:55 6:43 6:56 6:41 6:57 6:40 6:57 6:39 6:58 6:38 6:58 6:36 6:59 6:35 7:00 6:34 7:00 6:33 7:01 6:32 7:01 6:30 7:02
SOUTHWEST GA EAST AL 5
Lake Sinclair
Lake Harding
Forecast by Ken Sturdivant ken@southernfishing.com
Forecast by Steve “Colonel” McCorkle stevemccorkle61@yahoo.com
Lake Sinclair is down .88 feet with the water clear and the temperature in the 50’s. Bass fishing is fair. The lake is stained to muddy with surface temperatures ranging from 47 to 51 degrees. Only two patterns produce a few fish. Use a football jig in deep water around creek and river ledges, humps, points and roadbeds. Also, use crankbaits in two to seven feet of water around docks, grass lines and shallow ditches. Some productive crankbaits have been the Rapala #5 Shad Rap in chartreuse and pearl and the Bomber Flat A in a fire tiger color pattern. Fish them as slowly as you can, using the stop and go retrieve. Our extended forecast calls for rain with cold air temperatures.
Now that deer season has come to an end in Georgia and Alabama, it is time to dust off our rods and reels and begin the fishing season. The water temps continue to be in the low to mid 50’s, but expect the water temperatures to rise into the 60’s as we move into March. Largemouth bass should begin to move into the shallow water to begin to spawn. The best baits should be a spinnerbait, lipless crankbait or a swimbait. I find that white or chartreuse works best for spinnerbaits, and either a bass color or silver/black work best for lipless crankbaits and a bass or yellow perch color work best for swimbaits. Concentrate on the shallow points or coves. As the bass begin to go on the bed toward the end of March, then target the bedding fish with a Texas rig worm or grub or with a weightless worm such as a Senko or Zoom trick worm. Striped bass are schooling during this time of year, and if you find the baitfish, you will find the stripers. In the main lake, stripers should be up the creeks in or near deeper water. Fish the points with a lipless crankbait or swimbait in either chrome/black or natural fish pattern. If you fish up the river of the lake, target the shallow flats or entrances of the small coves where deep water is near. The same baits that you fish on the main lake will work. Live bait will also work such as minnows or shad. Crappie will really start to turn on in early March as they start to move shallow. Crappie can be caught on minnows and or jigs. Fishing methods vary, but most will either be caught trolling using a spider rig with several rods spread around the boat or by casting jigs along the banks or around docks. Most fishermen using the spider rig technique use 9-10 foot fiberglass rods with a spinning reel. A slip cork can be used or you can just let the jig or minnow sink to the desired depth. Speed is key using this method, and the slower you can troll, the better. For those who prefer to cast, then you should throw a 1/8-ounce jig with a curly tail grub using a cork. Set the jig below the cork between 2 and 3 feet depending on the depth of the water you are fishing. Throw the jig up to the bank and around docks, then jerk it back so that the cork pops, similar to a topwater plug. Let the cork sit a second or two and pop it again. This causes the jig to rise and fall and will entice the prespawn crappie to bite. Use this method for the full retrieve back to the boat. For trolling, I use an 8 to 10-foot light action rod with a spinning reel and 8-pound test mono line with a 6-pound leader. When casting, I use a 5 1/2 to 6-foot light action rod with a quality spinning reel with 6-pound test line.
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Lake Jackson
Forecast by Brian Lee leebrian16@yahoo.com
Lake Martin
Forecast by Capt. David Hare Alex City Guide Service 256.401.3089 davidbhare@yahoo.com
Water temperature: 43-49 degrees, water level: full pool, water clarity: stained/muddy. The bass are starting to make their move to spawning areas as the water temp continues to climb. The days are getting longer again and the bass are feeding up before the spawn. Concentrate early morning with search baits to locate active fish. Main lake points, secondary points and long spawning coves will be the ticket. Crankbaits are one of the best search baits you can own. Once you've located fish, you can load the boat with some nice chunky fish. A Senko can catch these fish as well. You just have to slow down for the technique to work. This time of year is one of the best times to catch multiple size fish on a single trip. Till next month, tight lines and remember to introduce a child to the great outdoors.
Full Blue Moon March 31st
Well, March is on top of us here on Lake Martin. Not only does it explode with anglers of all types, but it is an awesome month of catching all varieties of fish; the crappie, the bass and the best fighting fish you will ever catch in fresh water, the Lake Martin trophy stripers. You will witness all types of fishing being done in March. There is not a wrong or bad way to fish this month. Some ways may be a little better than others, but none are bad! As always, I will be fishing live bait and most likely be pulling planer boards with large gizzard shad trying to entice that trophy striper to come to the surface for that explosion you all have come to expect when you fish with us! For that angler that likes the night springtime bite, March produces that too. If the water levels have risen above your favorite underwater lights, then bass along with stripers will most likely be roaming these lighted areas just waiting on you to trigger a strike. If you like super light tackle fishing, then the March crappie fishing here is a must for you. It is nothing unusual in March for each angler on the boat to limit out with some very nice crappie. I’m not going to recommend any certain place on the lake for this month, because I personally find fishing to be good in almost any area of this awesome body of water. Until next time, catch one for me. Keep what you need for a meal and release the rest!
Lake Eufaula/Walter F. George Forecast by Capt. Sam Williams, Hawk’s Guide Service 334-687-6266 hawk184@earthlink.net Water temp: upper 40's, lake level: 187.09 msl, water clarity: stained Winter weather patterns have kept the water temperature below normal. The first drops on river ledges where you find natural and man-made structure are holding better fish. Slow presentation is the answer to getting a bite. Jigs with large chunky plastics and crankbaits are good choices. Crappie are also deep, concentrated around structure in 12 to 18 feet. Minnows and jigs do the job. Watch the weather reports and be safe on the river. Visit Alabamachildrensclassic.org and see how you can help the kids. If you shop Amazon, please see how shopping through our foundation and Amazon Smile will help. God Bless and Good Fishn'.
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Solunar Table March 2018
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Pay Attention to Your Surroundings I cannot begin to tell you how many times I have been so anxious to go fish and never stopped to take the time to read the surroundings that would have clued me in on what the fish might be doing. Knowing how to pay close attention to what is happening will give you the ability to put a pattern together much faster and also keep you safe on the water too. I want to shed some light on some of the patterns I have started to look for while going to the lake, while on the lake, and things that help keep me safe on the water by being aware of my surroundings. We all have heard old sayings or superstitions that lead us to believe that fishing will be good today or not so good. One old saying from years past was “If on the way to the lake, you see the cows laying down, the fish are not going to bite, and to go back home.” Even though I may not believe it, for some reason when I’m on the way to the lake and I pass a field of cows, somehow that thought comes to mind. Is this just a coincidence, or could it be that Mother Nature is trying to tell me something? Whatever the case, there are some things I do look at when I’m heading to the lake. Where I live we have a lot of power generating dams that have big smoke towers bellowing steam or smoke from them. Each time I’m near one heading to the lake, I always check to see what direction that smoke is flowing, and more importantly, how fast it’s moving. I know that if that smoke/steam is hovering around the same height as the tower and shifting to the west, it could mean bad weather is on
by Jay Striker the way. Another sure sign that bad weather is coming is hearing a lot of static on an AM radio station that you are used to getting clearly. When on the water, how am I supposed to adjust to the changing conditions on the lake? Just pay attention to the sky as it holds all of the keys to what the conditions are and what is coming. Some examples are: When the winds start to move in a counter clockwise motion (east to northeast) is another sign the weather is changing for the worse. A distinct ring around the moon means high winds could be present. One of the easiest signs to notice is if you can see the backs of the leaves on the trees when the wind is blowing, then bad weather is heading right for you. One of the oldest sayings when it comes to fishing is “Wind from the north, don’t go forth. Wind from the east, fish bite least. Winds from the south, blows the bait in the fish’s mouth. Wind from the west, fish bite the best.” Of all of the wise sayings in fishing, I think this one I believe the most. Weather plays a huge part in the success of a fishing day. Paying attention to your surroundings and understanding the small things will help you decide what to do. Mother Nature has a way of educating us all, and we need to take a little time to be silent and listen when Mother Nature is talking. Pay attention to everything going on around you as it may help you make better adjustments to catch more fish and make it safely back to shore.
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Dragging by Billy Darby
Dragging is a style of fishing where there is almost no casting skills required. Boat movement is necessary, whether it be by water movement drift, wind aided drift or trolling motor driven. Most often the lure of choice will be soft plastics, either Carolina style, Texas rigs, skirted jigs with trailers or weighted hooks with finesse type small plastics. Simply make a short cast about 20-30 feet or drop your lure to the bottom, then pay out line about the same distance, but try to stagger the distance with each trailing lure. Maintaining bottom contact is essential. These type lures make noise when striking underwater objects, plus
they make a silt trail that bass and other species recognize as potential prey. The terrain most associated with dragging is relatively shallow flats with some type structure available, such as rocks, logs or an uneven bottom. Watch your Humminbird very closely as your boat movement will dictate exactly where your lures will soon be and indicate mentioned structure as well as sudden depth changes. A trolling motor is almost required for repositioning or to return to a lodged lure for position to shake free or drag back thru a productive course. Trolling motor driven can be more accurate in your selected approach and staying on a pre-selected course such as road beds, long ditches or desired ledges. When dragging road beds, it is imperative to constantly monitor your Humminbird to maintain your position directly over the selected road path or the shoulders. The structure, if not already known, may include culverts, boulders or added man-made brush piles, and the list goes on. You may want to mark unusual structure or hot spots to return to as icons or GPS locations or mark about every 100’ or so for future reference in aiding a return trip for exact boat direction. Head into the wind as much as possible when a motor driven approach is needed to help maintain a truer course. Billy Darby is a professional guide on Lake Eufaula. He can be reached at imfishing4u@windstream.net or 229-768-2369.
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s th th he a ow se
Oconee on the Fly
by Wayne Moore
When I reached out to The Angler Magazine about fly fishing on Lake Oconee, my guess was no one had ever published an article on the subject before. My wife and I escaped from Atlanta two years ago, moving to peaceful Lake Oconee. The only thing I knew I'd miss was fly fishing the Chattahoochee. I had no idea that when I came here, fly fishing would be so incredible! Quickly, I discovered that heavier rods, different flies and new techniques were required to hook and land some of Oconee’s giants. Hooking a 5-lb hybrid on a fly rod is like hooking a Harley Davidson! Before we moved, I hired some fellow guides in Atlanta who specialize in stripers on the fly. Rob Smith (River through Atlanta, guiding the Chattahoochee) and Henry Cowen (Lanier's fly fishing pioneer for stripers) were invaluable resources. After a guided trip with each, I gained knowledge that would have taken me years to figure out on my own. The main food source for hybrids and stripers on Oconee are 2-inch threadfin shad. Several flies imitate them well; my favorite being Cowen's “Somethin’ Else.” This looks just like a small shad and is effective throughout the water column. I've found the retrieve is critical. Several short strips followed by a 30-second dead stop and repeat is the ticket. For surface activity, nothing beats the Wiggle Minnow. The angle of the foam in the front of this fly causes it to dive and wiggle when stripped, like a Rapala. My go-to rod is a Scott 9-foot, 8-weight rigged with intermediate line. I use a 9-foot, 12-lb. tapered leader. A good reel is key, as these fish will take out a lot of line. Bob Merriman at The Fish Hawk in Atlanta can set you up with everything you need. Timing is everything when you are going after hybrids, stripers and even white bass on a fly rod. So, here are few key times that will give you the best chance for success. The second week in March is famous for the white bass run at Dyar’s Pasture on the Oconee River. If you are new to fly fishing, this is a great time to build confidence. There are occasionally some hybrids and stripers in the mix as well, so be prepared for a fight! News of this run gets around Lake Oconee quickly, so get there early. The shad spawn usually starts the first week in April. All over the lake, shad are against sea walls and in the shallows. For a shot at a fat hybrid during this morning bite, throw a shad imitation like a “Lefty's Deceiver.” Finally, my favorite time to take someone out is during the “pump back bite.” This bite runs from July through October, and occurs when Georgia Power is pumping water up from Lake Sinclair into Oconee. This knocks the shad off the walls of the dam and they come up to the surface. Imagine boiling water with schools of hybrids exploding on the surface all around the boat and ready to take your fly! I encourage you to give this a try, but be warned, it is habit forming! Oconee On The Fly is booking trips for 2018 now! www. oconeeonthefly.com. Mixing fly fishing and conventional tackle gives you the opportunity to learn something new; experience the thrill of catching a hybrid, striper, or largemouth on a fly rod; and still load the boat on conventional tackle after the peak hours of fly fishing. Call Wayne Moore: 706-816-4281 or E-MAIL: wmoore1700@outlook.com COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
MARCH 2018
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Brag Board Tony Adams with a big Eufaula crappie
Eric and Bradle y Bainbridge wit Cohen from h bass caught wit some good h Fishing with Th Hog Heaven e Bass Dude
very, Eddie Ditto from Reco ss GA with a 9.5 pound ba a ill caught in the last Hydr on t en m na ur Gnats club to Lake Seminole
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Gary Parsons with a 14 caught from a kaya " long crappie k on using a minnow with Lake Oliver a slip cork
ttaker Nic Jeter and Cash Whi big 8 a th wi from Faceville, GA pound Seminole bass 12 SOUTHWEST GA EAST AL
MARCH 2018
dox holding Tony and Jean Mad d snapper Jean's 26-pound re a City caught at Panam
Maddux Walte rs North Georgia with the B with a nice bas ass Club s in the high sch caught o ol bass tournament on Lake Eufaula
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
*This month’s winner will receive an Angler Magazine cap
New IGFA Observer Training in Mattituck, Long Island
Photo courtesy of Casa Vieja Lodge, Guatemala ver wonder what it would be like to sit on a big, beautiful sportfishing boat and watch a top-notch crew work their magic against monster marlin and schools of sailfish? Can you hear the lines going off? Can you hear yourself screaming “release!” Then you’re ready to become an observer. All observers must take the IGFA Observer Training Course. It takes about four hours, it’s a great way to meet other fishing enthusiast and there’s no test or exam. The International Game Fish Association will conduct an observer training courses in New York on Long Island at Strong’s Water Club and Marina in Mattituck, Long Island, New York on Saturday, May 19. The half-day session teaches observer responsibilities and duties, billfish identification, and IGFA’s International Angling Rules. The class will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., includes a training manual, two DVD’s, a one-year IGFA membership and costs just $150. Take the course, and observe in luxurious resorts in Aruba, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Nicaragua and the U.S. Virgin Islands. To learn more, go to igfto.org. To sign up, go to igfa.org/Educate/ Observer-Training.aspx.
E
By Doug Haddaway
Photo courtesy of Capt. Mike Weinhoffer
For more about the Dry Tortugas, go to
CRYSTALSALTWATERS.COM
By Will Robinson
C
hoosing the right fly reel can really make your head spin. From basic drags to sealed-disk braking systems, the prices and quality vary dramatically. My gut always tells me to get the best that I can. Buy it once and you won’t be replacing it in a couple of years. While this typically holds true for fly reels, there are instances when it can be overkill. If you are looking for an inshore 8-weight and will be typically chasing snook in the backcountry, the need for
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a reel with a silky smooth drag and 300 yards of backing is pointless. You will likely be fighting most fish within 50 feet of you. And much of the time, you’ll be hand-lining them and have no need for a fancy drag system. In these situations, the reel is more of a line holder and can be much less expensive than their highly tuned cousins. A good starting point is deciding if you need a sealed drag reel. They are nice, and most are very well made with super smooth drags, but that comes at a price. A great advantage of these reels is that they are virtually maintenance free. The sealed drag keeps water out, so rinse them down well after fishing and, you are pretty much done. The negative is they are typically higher-end reels and a bit pricey. For nearly two decades I have fished with non-sealed drags and have never had an issue, but I need to do a little more maintenance and cleaning on those reels. Also, if you primarily fish from a boat where dunking a reel is not likely, this could be a great way to save some dough. Another important question is size, which often has to do with how much backing you think you will need. Since the tackle is lighter, it’s nice to have the line for long runs when fishing open areas, but again, if you typically fish tight spots there might not be a need for 300 yards of backing. Conversely, if you are looking to chase large tarpon or go offshore, you need plenty of backing. Larger arbors are great, even with limited backing. They allow you to pick up line at a much faster pace, making life easier on both the fish and fisher. Finally, opt for ported reels, as they are lighter and allow your backing to dry much faster. This is important for the longevity of the line. Smooth drags and plenty of backing are always nice. But be honest with yourself, this is an instance in which you can save a considerable amount of weight and money depending on the type of fishing you will be doing. Will Robinson is a seasoned tournament angler and has been writing about fishing for more than two decades. His picks for the best reels can be found at Galvanflyreels.com and Nautilusreels.com.
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
2/16/18 9:26 AM
By CAM Staff
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o many inshore anglers, springtime means flatfish, and there’s no destination fishery more closely associated with giant doormat flounder than Murrells Inlet, S.C. When waters begin to warm into the mid 70s, the inlet fills up with glass minnows, pogies and mullet. Flounder follow the bait, and they’ll set up in ambush points waiting for an easy meal. Murrells Inlet becomes the epicenter on the Atlantic coast for anglers seeking tasty flatfish. Most years, the flounder bite begins as early as April and will reach its peak in June. But flounder aren’t the only game in town. The same influx of bait draws all sorts of gamefish into this closed system of marshes and backwater creeks. Speckled trout fishing heats up, and as the crabs get more active on the flats, large schools of tailing redfish provide excellent sight fishing opportunities on light tackle as well as on the fly. With lures,
For more information on fishing, golfing and the Inlet Sports Lodge at Murrells Inlet, S.C., go to www.inletsportslodge.com/ or call 877-585-9360.
esy of Photo court utting C im Capt. T 6
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flies or live bait, the grass edges, creeks and oyster bars offer an almost surefire shot at an inshore slam of flounder trout and reds, and hard-pulling black drum will likely be in the mix as well. In the sound, there is even more sight fishing to be done. Triple tail and some big sharks will be taking advantage of all that bait. There’s good news from the federal fisheries managers, too. After almost a year of no harvest, cobia are again fair game. There is not much in fishing as exciting as spotting and casting to cruising cobia, but big bull reds definitely give them a run for their money in terms of pure strength. Along with the famous fall run, bull reds show up at Murrells Inlet in spring. Fish in the 20- to 40-pound range are a common occurrence. Outside the inlet, with a run of just a few miles, the nearshore reefs can be easily accessed, even on a half-day trip. Mackerel, sharks, black sea bass, reds, flounder, bluefish, spadefish and more make for an exciting cooler-filling outing. A little farther out, there is excellent trolling for king and Spanish mackerel, cobia and amberjack, as well as bottom fishing for snappers, groupers and sea bass. And serious anglers should look into a full-day or overnight trip to the Gulf Stream. From 55 to 70 miles offshore, opportunities for tuna, dolphin, wahoo, marlin and sailfish abound. Trolling the Gulf Stream for big-game species off the lower end of the Grand Strand is tough to beat anywhere. If all that fishing isn’t enough to pique your interest, the area is also world famous for its golf courses, and there’s a vacation destination on the inlet that caters specifically to the needs of anglers and golfers. Located at the heart of Murrells Inlet, the Inlet Sports Lodge is a comfortable and classy boutique hotel with the finest amenities in the area. It’s minutes away from three marinas, works closely with the area’s best charter captains and can accommodate boats up to 25 feet. There’s a fish cleaning room for prep, as well as gas and charcoal grills available in the courtyard to cook your catch. Or, for those who’d rather let someone else do the cooking, the COSTA Coastal Kitchen and Bar on-site offers up fine, fresh Italian and seafood fare. There are also several other restaurants nearby that prepare the kind of delicious right-out-ofthe-water dishes that have made Murrells Inlet the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina.” If days on the water paired with a days on the links sounds like the perfect way to relax, the Inlet Sports Lodge has you covered. With golf packages booking a wide variety of the Grand Strand’s famous courses, there’s more golf than you can swing a stick at, including two award-winning courses with the same ownership as the Inlet Sports Lodge. Caledonia Golf & Fish Club and True Blue Plantation are two of the finest courses in the area as well as the nation.
For more fishing at Murrells Inlet, go to
ANGLERSLIFE.CO MARCH 2018
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ver the last five years, Columbia, South Carolina’s Lower Saluda River has been on the rise as a trout fishery. Fed by the cold waters of Lake Murray, it took work by South Carolina DNR as well as habitat improvements to turn what once was a purely put-and-take fishery into viable year-round tailwater trout fishery. With improved dissolved oxygen levels and a new flow program, anglers began catching large holdover fish back in 2012. Where stocked rainbows were once expected to die off during summer months, rainbows and browns are now thriving throughout the year. Trout exceeding 20 inches in length are now a real possibility for anglers fishing the tailwater. South Carolina stocks this stretch of river with about 18,000 rainbow and brown trout by helicopter in winter. Regulations allow for no bait or tackle restrictions, and there is a daily harvest limit of five trout per day, per person. It would be interesting to see how stricter regulations might affect the fishery. That’s exactly what South Carolina DNR has proposed. In February, public meetings were held to provide information and gauge opinions on a catch-and-release-only section of the Saluda. A 1.3-mile special catch-and-release zone has been proposed on the river’s nearly 10-mile run from the dam at Lake Murray to its convergence with the Broad River. Regulations would remain unchanged for the rest of the Lower Saluda. For information or to submit comments on the proposed plan, see www.dnr.sc.gov.
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Angler Chuck Hanford and Capt. Alex with a 60-pound roosterfish released on the Harvester in February.
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he 2018 season is in full swing in Nosara, Costa Rica. The five boats of the FishingNosara team have already run 225 trips since our season kicked-off in November, and show no signs of slowing down. As usual, the flagship Wanderer has led the charge with great action this season. One of our favorite anglers Leah Merryfield helped the Wanderer ring in the New Year with a great day of action on Jan. 1. Capt. William found a 40-plus-pound dorado lurking offshore, and Miss Merryfield was there to land the monster. Mate Johnny had his work cut out for him to filet this big green beast. With dinner on ice, Mike battled a big sailfish all the way in for the release. Filets for the table and another trophy release for the scrapbook… that’s a perfect day of fishing to kick off 2018. On Jan. 9, Soren and Marianne Dalberg-Pedersen had a big day with
Capt. William, highlighted by a pair of awesome marlin releases. They added a big dorado for the icebox, and all of this happened on just a fivehour, half-day trip! Our big battleship Discoverer also has been delivering big fish and big smiles. Our dear friend Jerome McKown continues to add to his FishingNosara Hall of Fame resume with a great day of action for his group on Feb. 1. After a sweet sailfish release, these Texas anglers scored a nice yellowfin tuna with a baitcaster reel he brought from home. Ryan McPherson joined Capt. Carlos and had the best five-hour trip you can imagine on Jan. 31. First up was a big blue marlin release. The blue water kept producing with an excellent sailfish backed up by a tasty yellowfin tuna. Our newest weapon, the 32-foot Eduardono mega-panga Harvester, has already redefined the potential of panga fishing in Central America. After three full days of fishing, angler Chuck Hanford saved the best for last with a mammoth roosterfish release on his final day of action on Feb. 5. This monster was a legitimate 60 pounds, proven by Captain Alex’s Bogagrip. Great work by the mega-panga to photograph and release this monster. Meanwhile, our smaller pangas, the Explorer and Adventurer, are delivering the best bang-for-your-buck fishing action in all of Central America. The Explorer put on a show for Maurycy Krzastek, of Poland, with a wonderful day of action on Jan. 12. The fish were fired-up as the Explorer released not one but two mighty marlins. This amazing feat was backedup with plenty of dorado, so these boys will be well fed. Great work by Capt. Fico! The Adventurer scored a swarm of permit, snappers and yellowfin tuna on Jan. 6. Want to have ceviche, sushi and filets all in one meal? Capt. David is known for delivering a wide variety of edible delights every time he hits the water. Daily updates on the team’s catches are available at blog.fishingnosara.com and on the major social media platforms.
For more on FishingNosara, go to
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FRESHWATER
By TAM Staff
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his is the time of year when crappie anglers flock to the water. The predictability and seemingly never-ending abundance of these tasty fish make them a springtime tradition with a community feel. No one’s going to fight you for crappie; there are plenty for everyone. Here are a few tips to help you load a cooler this spring. • Fish The Right Areas: This time of year, crappie are either shallow or thinking about moving shallow, depending on where you fish. With warming waters, the spring spawn will find them right up on the banks in water as shallow as 1 ½ feet. Explore backs of the creeks that feed reservoirs or the flats adjacent to creek channels. Crappie use those channels to travel in and out of their spawning areas, so they’ll be stacked up in shallow brush near those slightly deeper areas when they move up. They’ll be holding in those slightly deeper channels before and after the spawn. • Brush, Brush, Brush: The necessity for cover cannot be overstated. Crappie seek out hard bottoms with abundant cover to hide and
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protect their beds. Laydowns on the bank, shallow docks, timber and brush stacked up by currents, angler-placed brush in shallow water, all of it will hold spawning crappie as long as there is firm bottom for them to build their nests and something to conceal them. • Tactics: Male crappie are usually the target when fishing during the spawn. Males are the ones that guard the beds, and while they are in protector mode they are aggressive. They are not necessarily feeding; they are attacking. Minnows under a float are the traditional bait for crappie fishing, and it is a tactic that works any time of year. But during the spawn, minnows can actually hurt your productivity because fishing them out of the livewell and hooking them up is time consuming. If they will take a jig, there is no reason not to use one. Jigs are just more efficient. This time of year, bright and gaudy colors are the way to go. Angry fish don’t need to be enticed into feeding, just getting their attention is often enough to make them strike. Whether you’re vertical jigging thick cover or casting to the banks, move quickly until you find crappie and then slow down to catch all of them that will bite. • Remember: When you find a good spot, mark it on the graph or remember where it is. Crappie know where to go to spawn successfully and comfortably. They will utilize the same areas year after year, and so should you. This holds true on a short-term basis also. Catch a limit one day, and you might think you’ve fished a particular bank out. Don’t count on it. Those good spawning sites reload. New fish will move in to take the place of the ones you took home to the fryer. That spot is worth checking again as early as tomorrow or even this afternoon.
For more on fishing Crappie in the spring, go to
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TIPS FROM A PRO
FRESHWATER PUNCHING MATS
BRANDON LESTER
T
he first pro event of the 2018 Bassmaster schedule was the Bassmaster Eastern Open in Kissimmee, Fla. I love Florida in winter, and love it even more now. I finished the event in second place, my highest professional finish to date. To notch that result, I had to adapt. Here’s how I did it. In practice and early on day one I was catching fish on a prop bait. The fish were eating it, but I started catching smaller fish as time wore on. I knew big fish were in the area but weren’t willing to hit a topwater. They were buried in the cover, and I needed to go in after them. That meant punching the heavy mats. My arsenal for approaching the thickest Florida cover is simple but vital. I like to
use a MHX FP936 flipping stick with a 1 ½-ounce tungsten weight. I like a 4/0 Mustad 3X Grip Pin Max flipping hook, which helps keep a compact creature bait on the hook shank while penetrating abrasive cover. I pair it with 65-pound Vicious No Fade Braid to a high-speed reel to ensure I can muscle trophy fish from matted cover. A big key to punching heavy cover is the bait. It must have a compact shape to slip through the mats behind that big weight. I worked with X Zone Lures to create a new punching bait that does just that and is a new look for the fish. The Muscle Back Finesse Craw is the result. You can find them on the X Zone website (www.xzonelures.com). I relied on the Okeechobee Craw and Black/Blue Flake colors, which are both Florida staples.
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FRESHWATER PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT
Fishmaster has unveiled a new line of folding aftermarket T-tops suitable for inshore or offshore applications. The first model in Fishmaster’s new Pro Series features industry leading 2.25-inch aviation grade 6061 T6 schedule 40 aluminum for optimum strength-to-weight ratio. Its patent pending design features sleek lines, integral grab handles and lateral support bars for superior stability. The top provides more than 35 square feet of coverage and features Sunbrella fabric for weather protection and comfort. The top can be folded without the use of tools to accommodate storage, trailering and low bridge or tree clearance. It is available in bone white powder coating or polished and anodized finish for maximum corrosion resistance. This Pro Series model adjusts from 24-50 inches wide to fit virtually any center console on the market. Each Fishmaster top can be customized with a wide array of accessories including rod holders, lights, antenna brackets, an electronics box and more. Fishmaster T-Tops can be installed by a do-it-yourselfer or by a dedicated Fishmaster marine dealer. For more information about the new Pro Series or the name of your local Fishmaster dealer, call 877-777-8693 or visit Fishmaster.com.
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UNDER THE SEA
What To Wear?
W
ho says you can’t have it all? When it comes to wetsuits—whether man or woman, warm or cold water, scuba or freediver—there are many great choices on the market. They are more comfortable, better-fitting, and more fashionable than ever. Pioneers in the dive world had to endure cold temperatures sometimes. Finally, in 1952, a University of California physicist invented the wetsuit. Water conducts heat away from the body about 20 times more efficiently than air, which is why an unprotected individual feels cold even in “warmish” water. The inventor created a foam-like material to cover the body, which reduced the water’s ability to conduct heat away from the body. This, plus the fact that water is warmed by your body and trapped inside the suit, made for a more comfortable experience. Previous materials were very fragile or very rigid. Due to product innovation, wetsuits are more flexible, warm, and come in many different colors—even camouflage patterns. Better-fitting designs and new methods of joining the seams make today’s suits even more waterproof and reduce “flushing,” which is the seeping in of cold water. In the warmest parts of the world, divers may opt for a simple “lycra skin” for protection from jellyfish, coral and sunburns. However, even in the summer, most will still wear at least a 2-mil wetsuit. On the other end of the scale, my very admirable friends in northern California wear two-piece 8-mil wetsuits complemented by thick neoprene boots, gloves and hoods. As an example, someone in the Bahamas might wear a skin for the summer and a 2-mil in the winter. Someone in Florida might own a 3-mil for the summer and a two-piece 5-mil for the winter. A Californian would probably own a two-piece 5-mil for the summer and 8-mil for winter.
The rule of thumb is that you want to wear the thinnest possible wetsuit, but enough to feel comfortable throughout the dive. That’s because you want to maintain maximum Photo by Jose Fernandez flexibility and reduce the amount of lead needed on your weight belt to submerge (wetsuit material is buoyant). The beauty of owning two-piece suits (hooded top and farmer john bottoms) is that you can switch pieces around for the perfect combination—such as wearing a 5-mil bottom with a 3-mil top. Along these lines, it’s also possible to buy a sleeveless vest for more layering options. With just a few basic pieces, many different combinations are available. This is especially handy if traveling and exact conditions are unknown or could change. The following brands are available at your local dive shop: Yazbeck, Mares, Riffe, Omer, Cressi and more. If an off-the-rack suit does not fit, there are several affordable custom manufacturers who will tailor one to your measurements, such as Polosub or Elios. These days, there’s no reason to be uncomfortable in the water. Happy diving! Sheri is a world-record holder, host of Speargun Hunter, and producer of “The Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo” in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Follow “Sheri Daye” and “The Blue Wild” on Facebook and Instagram.
For more Sheri Daye, go to
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The Professional Choice For 200 Years
By CAM Staff
M
ichael Clark’s 9.66-pound sheepshead might not be the biggest ever caught, but it’s the heaviest officially recognized sheep ever caught on a fly rod in Louisiana. Clark, of Charleston, S.C., and his father-in-law Craig Pagels booked a couple days with Louisiana Low Tide Charters and Capt. Lucas Bissett last January to fish the marshes of Delacroix. The big sheepshead came on the second afternoon of the trip. The day had dawned clear and calm, but when winds picked up in the afternoon it stirred up the mud bottom they were fishing. Capt. Bissett made the call to move in search of a sand bottom and clear water. It was a good call. Bissett spotted two sheepshead from the poling platform. “He told me to strip out all my line and said ‘four o’clock, four o’clock,’” Clark said. “I threw it out there and dropped it right on the shadow. Then I waited for what seemed like forever. Then I twitched it once and it took the fly.” The fish ate Bissett’s own pattern, a Bissett’s Mud Bug, which has a deer hair head and a baitfish profile. It was caught on a 10-weight Orvis Helios. The Louisiana Outdoor Writers Association (LOWA) recognized it as the fly-caught state record. The all-tackle LOWA record for sheepshead was caught in 1982 by Wayne Desselle. That one weighed 21.25 pounds.
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Airline_CoastalAnglerAd_3-2016_Layout 1 3/18/16 1:07 PM Page 1
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By Tobin Strickland - CAM Special Correspondent Photo Courtesy of Capt. Ernest Cisneros - Simms Ambassador
pring temperatures can swing widely; the morning can start very cold with late season frontal passages, or strong winds with clouds or fog. Even warm days can feel cold due to the water’s ability to cool the near surface layer of air. However, those cold mornings can warm to hot afternoons and back to cold. First, start with a thermal layer that breathes well that can be worn on its own if it warms up. I prefer merino wool for this, but cotton thermals are fine as well if that’s your budget. The merino seems to wick and dry better and is comfortable in a wider range. Next comes a hoodie of some sort, whether that be heavy cotton, fleece or poly, and on your legs either poly sweats or jeans are usually enough for spring. The hoodie will be a welcome addition over your hat of choice at dawn, during high winds, or evening low-light conditions. The final layer should be some sort of windproof and waterproof layer. For wade fishing or rough water conditions, I like a pair of Simms fishing waders and a jacket. I can’t stress enough how important it is to block the wind and water on the top layer. Spring fishing brings variable conditions that require you to layer your clothes so you can adjust through the day. The mornings may be cold, but the mid afternoon leaves you peeling off clothes and sweating. You’ll be ready if you layer. Tobin created TroutSupport.com - Tech Support for inshore fisherman wanting to take it beyond the basics.
30
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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT LLEBROC GAME CHANGER Llebroc Industries teamed up with Shockwave to create Game Changer, the ultimate shock seat. The S5 military-grade shock mitigation system is the real thing, and boat owners owe it to their backs to check out this product. By combining the finest-riding seat on the market with the finest shock-mediating system, Llebroc has the solution to rough seas at an affordable price. Whether it’s helm seats, benches or bass-boat seats, Llebroc is already renowned for producing functional and comfortable marine seats. Every Llebroc chair features rugged durability, extraordinary comfort, functional design, an impressive set of standard features and an affordable price. With a wide variety of different chair styles and custom features, customers can create the exact chair they want. Shockwave’s shock-mitigating suspension has won more military awards after extensive review than any other manufacturer. The Game Changer is a combination that will allow you to fish longer and harder. Your ride can be completely customized with the S5 system. Dual dampener controls allow for adjustment of the suspension to make the ride harder or softer and dictate how fast the unit rebounds. An air pump provides additional control, allowing the system to be customized based on the weight of the person sitting in the chair. When you’re ready to experience the most comfortable, smoothest riding helm chair available, check out the Game Changer. For more information and to see all the different products Llebroc has to offer, go to www.llebroc.com.
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N SO S NG ARD AVI TBO T S I OU TANUZUK INSECT S
Instant Savings of up to $800 on select models. See your dealer for details.
3. Rates as low as 5.99% on new Suzuki outboards (OAC).*
REPOWER FINANCE
Gimme Six Extended Protection promo is applicable to new Suzuki Outboard Motors from 25 to 350 HP in inventory which are sold and delivered to buyer between 01/01/18 and 03/31/18 in accordance with the promotion by a Participating Authorized Suzuki Marine dealer in the continental US and Alaska to a purchasing customer who resides in the continental US or Alaska. Customer should expect to receive an acknowledgement letter and full copy of contract including terms, conditions and wallet card from Suzuki Extended Protection within 90 days of purchase. If an acknowledgement letter is not received in time period stated, contact Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. – Marine Marketing via email: marinepromo@suz.com. The Gimme Six Promotion is available for pleasure use only, and is not redeemable for cash. Instant Savings apply to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki Outboard Motors made between 01/01/18 and 03/31/18. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine.com. Customer and participating Dealer must fill out the appropriate form at time of sale. Instant Savings will be applied against the original dealer invoice (Suzuki will credit Dealer parts account). There are no model substitutions, benefit substitutions, rain checks, or extensions. Suzuki reserves the right to change or cancel these promotions at any time without notice or obligation. * Financing offers available through Synchrony Retail Finance. As low as 5.99% APR financing for 60 months on new and unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors. Subject to credit approval. Not all buyers will qualify. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. $19.99/month per $1,000 financed for 60 months is based on 5.99% APR. Hypothetical figures used in calculation; your actual monthly payment may differ based on financing terms, credit tier qualification, accessories or other factors such as down payment and fees. Offer effective on new, unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors purchased from a participating authorized Suzuki dealer between 01/01/18 and 03/31/18. “Gimme Six”, the Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2018 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.
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