The Angler Magazine | April 2025 | Okeechobee / Lake Istokpoga Edition

FROG FISHING FOR GIANT BASS SPRING BLUEGILL TACTICS FOR

navigating peace of mind

THE IMPORTANCE OF BOAT INSURANCE

Embarking on the open water is an exhilarating experience, flled with the promise of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a weekend cruiser, protecting your vessel with proper insurance is not just a choice—it’s a necessity. Explore the reasons why every boat owner should prioritize boat insurance for a worry-free voyage.

Unpredictable waters

The open water can be unpredictable, with unexpected storms, collisions, or other potential accidents. Boat insurance can give you fnancial protection if there is damage to your vessel, providing coverage for repairs or replacement.

Damage and injury

Accidents on the water can result in damage to other boats, docks, or even injuries to passengers. Boat insurance offers liability coverage, which can pay for damages or injuries you’re liable for while boating, up to specifed limits, and lawsuit costs if you’re sued. This includes damage you cause to another watercraft or if someone on or near your boat is injured and you’re found to be legally responsible.

Theft and vandalism

Unfortunately, boat theft and vandalism are realities that boat owners face. Boat insurance has comprehensive and collision coverage that can protect you against events outside of your control, including theft and vandalism.

Incurred medical payments

Accidents on the water may lead to injuries for you or your passengers. Boat insurance offers a range of optional medical payments coverage limits, helping to cover medical expenses if you are in an accident or someone is hurt on your boat, regardless of fault.

Peace of mind for fnancing

If you fnanced the purchase of your boat, most lenders require insurance coverage to protect their investment. Having boat insurance not only fulflls these requirements but also gives you peace of mind knowing that your fnancial interests are safeguarded.

Navigational fexibility

Some water municipalities and marinas may require proof of insurance for docking or accessing certain areas. Boat insurance allows you the fexibility to explore different destinations without worrying about entry restrictions.

Emergency towing and assistance

Progressive boat insurance can include optional Sign & Glide® On-Water Towing coverage. If your boat is disabled or breaks down on the water, Sign & Glide® pays for on-water towing, jump starts, soft un-groundings, and fuel delivery.

Wreckage removal

If your boat sinks, Progressive boat insurance will cover the cost of removing your boat from the water (if removal is legally required).

Investing in boat insurance is not just about protecting a valuable asset; it’s about safeguarding the memories, experiences, and joy that come with your on-water adventures. Don’t let unforeseen circumstances disrupt your journey—navigate with confdence, knowing that Progressive boat insurance has you covered. Ensure a smooth and worry-free voyage, because when it comes to your boat, peace of mind is the ultimate luxury.

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THE TIME HAS COME TO RAMP UP AMERICA’S FISH STOCKING PROGRAM

By Ben Martin, Editor in Chief

The non-pro!t Protect Our Waters reports that, “Fish stocking has been a vital tool for maintaining healthy !sh populations in America’s lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. However, in recent years, most of our waterways have su ered from declining !sh stocks due to habitat destruction, over!shing, pollution, and climate change. If we’re going to combat these challenges, we’re going to need to ramp up our !sh stocking e orts to ensure the sustainability of recreational !shing, and food security.”

Fishing is one of America’s most popular outdoor activities, with millions of anglers heading to the water each year. e recreational !shing industry contributes over $125 billion to the economy annually and supports nearly a million jobs. Unfortunately, declining !sh populations threaten our industry, leading to fewer opportunities for anglers and reduced economic bene!ts for communities that rely on !shing tourism.

but also sustains the businesses like as bait shops, tackle manufacturers, and guide services that depend on a thriving !shery. Additionally, if we’re going to

can lead to an imbalance in the food chain. Stocking e orts can help restore native species in waters where they have declined, preventing the dominance of invasive species that may outcompete them.

While recreational !shing is the primary focus of most stocking programs, increased stocking can also support food security. Stocked !sh provide a renewable source of protein for both commercial !sheries and subsistence anglers.

Enhanced !sh stocking e orts can help mitigate the negative impacts that we’re seeing by introducing hybrid climate-resilient strains of !sh, e technology is there, we just have to use it. Without proactive stocking and conservation e of our favorite species of dramatic declines in the coming decades.

By increasing !sh stocking e orts, states could easily replenish popular game !sh species like red!sh, $ounder bass, trout, walleye, and crappie, ensuring that anglers have plenty of !sh to catch. is not only keeps !shing enthusiasts engaged

encourage a younger generation of anglers to be passionate about this wonderful pastime, they’ve gotta be able to catch !sh.

Many ecosystems are under constant pressure from habitat degradation, invasive species, and pollution. In some cases, native !sh populations struggle to maintain healthy numbers, which

America’s !sh stocking programs could and should play a critical role in maintaining healthy !sh populations, supporting the economy, preserving ecosystems, and enhancing food security. With increasing environmental and economic pressures threatening it’s time for a signi!cant investment in stocking e orts. By expanding hatcheries, improving stocking strategies, and integrating habitat conservation e orts, America can ensure that its waters remain abundant with !sh for generations to come.

Protect Our Waters is an angler-sponsored, nonpro!t organization with it’s primary focus on the sustainability and enhancement of recreational !shing. Learn more at ProtectOurWaters.com.

Smooth Sailing

There are many reasons why the beautiful, deep-water queen snapper has made its way to the top of many anglers’ bucket lists. Not only is this !sh unique and stunning in appearance, but the quality of !llets it produces tops the scale of other snappers.

Most !sh that are harvested from the deeper, cooler waters, as with queen snapper, tend to yield higher quality table-fare. With the thick white meat on these !sh, that can grow over twenty pounds, targeting this species is a foodie’s delight.

Queen snapper can be found from 400 to 1,600 feet of water, spawning year round, with schools constantly on the move. Although they can be targeted over ledges and deep-sea coral beds within these depths, it’s not common to catch one as bycatch while not speci!cally intending to target them. As with most !sh with a penchant for these depths, research is scarce, with !shermen providing the majority of information on their observed behavior. at being said, targeting this species will be more productive with an experienced guide, rather than going it alone and winging it.

If you are a part of the DIY deep-dropping explorers club, and looking to add queen snapper to your hunt, you’re probably going to want to make a few di erent rigs for them.

An electric reel setup is recommended for this type of !shing. Not only due to the depths you are trying to reach, but you may only get short

By Capt. Quinlyn Haddon

dri%s over where you need to be before its time to reset.

e standard drop LEDs and lights should be used the same as with other deep-drop methods. Utilizing a heavy mono!lament leader line of approximately 300 pounds, a x your !ve drop lines at varying distances from each other. You may !nd you get bites higher up in the water column on certain days, making an extremely long leader more productive in !nding the !sh, especially on a !rst dri%. e drop lines should be decorated with your choice of glowing fandangles, whether it be glow wraps, rubber squids or the simple glow beads. Circle hooks ranging from 7/0 to 10/0 are e ective, and if you choose to put a variety of sizes on a single rig, the larger hooks should be at the bottom of the line.

this type of !shing is new to you, pepper in a few chunks of skin-on bonita in your presentation.

If you happen upon your queen snapper territory and !nd yourself in conditions without much current, you can also attempt to catch them with a heavy slow pitch jig. As long as you have light braid and a heavy jig to get to the bottom, and the energy and tenacity to retrieve it again, this is a productive method in extremely light current.

Once you start catching !sh, you may !nd they are consistently eating the bottom hook or the top hook, you can then play around with switching your rig to a longer or shorter leader.

e ideal go-to bait for queens is squid, but since this is a so%er bait, its easier to miss the bite. If

FISHING IS BETTER IN

Queen snapper can be found deep in the gulf, and in the Atlantic from North Carolina to Brazil. While they have hot spots in the Bahamas and deep within the Gulf, e Atlantic waters of e Florida Keys o ers the best opportunity to target these within the United States and with the most minimal travel time. With mahi season around the corner in the Florida Keys, this is a great time to start heading o shore for queen snapper, as it provides a chance to target mahi to and from the deep-drop spots. Give me a call to get out there!

Capt. Quinlyn Haddon guides with Sweet E’Nuf Charters out of Marathon, e Florida Keys. (504) 920-6342. www.captainquinlyn.com; IG: @captainquinlyn

MUD HOLE CUSTOM TACKLE ALL-IN-ONE ROD BUILDING KITS

For anyone looking to build the best rod you’ll ever !sh, All-In-One Rod Building Kits from Mud Hole Custom Tackle are the ideal starting point. All-In-One kits take all the guesswork out of building a !shing rod, making it easy and enjoyable. Whether casting, spinning, y, or even ice, Mud Hole has everything you need for the perfect performance !shing rod and to start a lifetime of custom building.

Mud Hole’s All-In-One Rod Building Kits make it simple. Each kit includes everything you need—rod blank, guides, reel seat, grips, thread, and even the tools and supplies for assembly. With everything already preselected and packaged together, beginners don’t have to worry about picking out matching components and determining which supplies and tools are needed—all the work has been done by their professional builders.

Plus, Mud Hole provides all of the instruction required to build your !rst !shing rod. Kits include an easy-to-follow instruction book, and Mud Hole is the world’s largest source of free online rod building education material and content. ere’s nothing like catching a !sh on a rod you built. And All-In-One Rod Building Kits from Mud Hole Custom Tackle are the perfect way to get started in this time-honored cra$.

Performance Bulletin Available

Repower

The weather is warming, and the winterchallenged !shermen are pulling their boats out of storage. is undoubtedly will lead to more tra#c on the water. With the added tra#c and high southern winds, this is a perfect time for me to avoid both by swapping the kayak for the boat for a few weeks and going deep into the marsh.

Springs’ rising tides will $ood new water over the once-dry marsh, encouraging more !sh to explore the new terrain in a quest for a good meal. Little do they know, I will be waiting there with my trustworthy rattling paddle tail.

Red!sh will be my primary target since I spent the winter targeting trophy trout. As always, bait will be the key to a successful outing. Since the size of the bait will be small, I like to have two characteristics in my lure. ey are small, roughly 3”, and have a clear sparkling color. is helps produce in most situations because the bait is tiny, maybe smaller than my lure. at is why I like the transparent re$ective colors; they disguise the lure’s size, making it appear smaller.

I like to work irregular shorelines since they have more areas for the bait to hide. I also feel it slows the reds down. When they have a straight shore, they tend to cover more water rather than hang around, allowing you more opportunities. If the water is o -color, I like to add a popping

cork rather than changing color. Known for their e ectiveness when using live shrimp, popping corks also improve the performance of so plastics. Depending on the situation and preference, these can be used on a jig head, weedless weighted hook, or with just a hook. When choosing a popping cork, I like a deep cup, which is hard to !nd on most corks in today’s market, but there are a few. Most manufacturers went away from the actual reason for the name, popping. e original, and a few out there today, still have the deep concave top, which produces the slurping sound and splash mimicking a !sh feeding on the surface. I !nd that sound is what attracts the !sh more than a clack. I’ll dedicate an entire article to cork !shing and the many ways to use them soon. While targeting reds, use a stout hook on your jig head. A hook you can $ex with your !nger is better suited for trout than reds. is is not where you want to skimp on quality. Not only do the hooks need to stand up to the hookset into the thick skin of a red, but they also need to hold up to the torque of removing the hook from the their jaw. I see many hooks get destroyed at this point. ank you for reading my words and don’t forget to take a kid !shing! e time is right.

By Capt. Michael Okruhlik

Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures®, and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF KNOCKIN TAIL LURES®.

The Benefts of Having a Bait Pen for Spring Fishing

Spring !shing is one of the most exciting times of the year. As water temperatures rise, !sh become more active, making live bait one of the best ways to trigger bites. A bait pen—a oating or submerged enclosure for keeping bait!sh alive— can be a game-changer for any angler.

One major advantage of a bait pen is ensuring a steady supply of live bait. Instead of relying on bait shops or spending time catching bait before each trip, you can stockpile bait in advance. #is allows you to head straight to your !shing spot with fresh, lively bait ready to go.

A bait pen also saves time and money. Buying live bait regularly can be expensive, especially during peak !shing season when demand is high. Catching fresh bait every time you !sh also takes up valuable time. By storing bait in a pen, you reduce costs and eliminate the hassle of searching for bait before every outing.

Healthy bait is crucial for successful !shing, and a bait pen helps keep bait!sh strong and active. With proper water ow and oxygen levels, bait stays in peak condition for days or even weeks. #is means your bait will swim naturally and attract more strikes compared to weak or dying bait!sh.

Another key bene!t is exibility. Spring weather can be unpredictable, with sudden changes in wind and tide conditions. If a !shing trip gets postponed, a bait pen allows you to keep your bait alive until conditions improve. Instead of scrambling for fresh bait when the opportunity arises,

you’ll be ready to go at a moment’s notice.

Using a bait pen is also more sustainable. Instead of constantly netting fresh bait and impacting local !sh populations, you can responsibly store what you need and reduce unnecessary waste. #is helps preserve bait!sh stocks while still giving you an e$ective !shing strategy.

For tournament anglers and !shing guides, a bait pen is an essential tool. Having premium live bait ready before a trip provides a competitive edge and enhances client experiences. Instead of spending time chasing bait, anglers can focus on putting more !sh in the boat.

A bait pen is a simple but invaluable tool for any serious angler. It ensures you always have quality live bait on hand, saves time and money, and provides exibility for unpredictable !shing conditions. Whether you !sh recreationally or professionally, investing in a bait pen will make your trips more e cient and successful.

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For more information on future contests, visit

We’ve all heard it, and most of us have said it at one time or another, but on March 3rd, 2025 George Poemer of Robbinsville, NC, received his Coastal Angler Magazine contest prize: a brand new Suzuki Marine DF2.5 Portable Outboard Motor! Now, at least one of us out there can never say, “ I never win anything,” again. Congratulations to George for being chosen the winner, and a special shout out to our friends at Suzuki for making this really cool contest possible. www.coastalanglermag.com

REPORT & FORECAST Capt. Reno Alley

Big Fish Time!!

As a fishing guide for 40 years, March is always the best time to catch a 10-pound bass.

Everything needs to line up to be successful. To me, the water temperature is the most important thing in catching big bass. Other people believe in the full moon, why not try to watch both? I have fished tournaments and guided my whole life. I have seen it all.

I’m going to give you some things to look for to be successful in catching “double digit” bass.

1. Water temperature needs to be 68 – 72 degrees for the fish to spawn. Sometimes, they go earlier or later, “Mother Nature!”

2. Full Moon. The moon does have an affect on fish to spawn. Sometimes three days before and three days after the full moon.

3. Where to look for the Big Bass. To me, location is the key to success.

a. Look for protected areas from the wind. The wind can change the water temperature quickly.

b. In Florida and most states, the northwest shore is protected from the winds. Also, the sun shines on the area the longest, lots of sun

4. Where to fish in March for the Biggest bass

a. Staging fish to come in the shallow water.

I look for outside grass lines that are close to protected areas or in 10 to 12 feet of water. The biggest bass like to get fatten up at this time. They will bite good, use big worms and shiners.

b Look for them in shallow water as the temperature warms up in five to eight feet. They start cruising around to look for bedding areas. Sometimes you will see them swimming all over, they are hard to catch! But, you now know where the bedding areas are. Lots of small buck bass is good to see. They romance the females to come in to spawn,

c. Spawning – Locked on to bedding.

Bedding – site fishing is about the only way to catch the big ones. You must catch the small bucks off the bed to get the female to bite. Use lizards, small worms or shiners to catch her.

Now, take pictures and weigh her and then carefully, release her back in the water. That’s how to keep many big bass for the future fishing trips.

If you want, go get yourself a replica big bass using your photos as a reference! During my fishing trips, we catch a lot of big bass and we do not keep any of them! Somedays, we can catch between 20 and 30 for a four hour guided trip and we release them all.

Do the ABC’s and you will find the bigger bass.

March is the month for Trophy Bass

Keep fishing - you will only get better!!

Keep a tight line. — Captain Reno Alley, USCG, Memory Makin’ Guides 1-800-749-2278

HOOKED FOR LIFE:

Scott Taylor’s Journey from Collector to Lure Maker

Flocal auction house, where they became experts in golf memorabilia. But in 2011, a chance encounter changed everything.

While browsing a local antique shop, Scott met a passionate tackle collector. That conversation lit a spark inside him. Golf memorabilia quickly took a backseat as he shifted his focus to vintage Florida made fishing lures. Soon after, he attended his first vintage tackle show. "I was blown away," he recalled, amazed by the incredible collections and the camaraderie among fellow enthusiasts.

or many, collecting fishing tackle is more than just a hobby—it’s a journey through history, nostalgia, and passion. Some inherit old lures from family, while others stumble into the hobby unexpectedly. That’s exactly how Scott Taylor of Tallahassee, Florida, found himself diving headfirst into the world of vintage Florida-made fishing tackle. Scott grew up fishing south Florida waterways, chasing Tarpon and Snook as a kid. But life took him in a different direction. After dedicating over 40 years to Publix, he finally retired and rekindled his love for fishing. Between traveling, casting lines, and embracing retirement, Scott and his wife, Peggy, developed a passion for antiques. Their love for collecting led them to a

Inspired, Scott began handcarving his own lures, drawing influence from legends like Jim Pfeffer and Robinson Bait Co. By 2012, he had crafted over 50 unique, fishable lures, testing them in his private pond on bass, gar, bluegill, and catfish. His passion only grew, but by 2016, arthritis forced him to slow down. Though he could no longer carve, he continued creating stunning painted pieces, keeping his artistic spirit alive.

Scott’s legacy lives on in the hands of collectors, friends, and his own well-stocked tackle box. His story is a testament to how a single conversation can change a life—and how the love of fishing keeps us all connected.

— - Stephen Rampersad Vintage Florida Tackle Collector

GREATER LAKE PLACID CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Jennifer M. Bush - Executive Director 863-465-4331 - jennifer@lpfla.com

Why support your local pro shop?

Having a great bow technician you can trust isn’t something you can order off the internet. Nor is it easily accessible at most big box stores. Rather than hiring based on expertise, the position is filled quickly with a willing vessel. Not saying its impossible for these big stores to have people with knowledge but it is not an easy find. One must also be weary of counterfeit parts available so easily accessible via the internet these days. Quick and convenient doesn’t always mean quality.

So what are the benefits to visiting these small businesses?

A major one is customer service. A professional bow shop does whatever it takes to make sure their customers never feel like they are just number. Sometimes that means going the extra mile where others won’t. Having genuine care for the archers and future archers that frequent these shops. Whether that’s staying late, loaning bows to save a hunt or even simply answering questions to help you better understand archery. This is what sets professional archery shops apart from the rest.

Piggy backing off of that. Getting a bow set up is no easy feat. Its not like in the gun world where you can just pick up your piece and have it sighted in after a couple shots at the range. Building a bow and getting fitted for the one shooting has a lot of steps in order for it to be successful. One of the biggest hurdles that we see in the shop is proper bow fitment. For example having the appropriate draw length, peep height as well as paper tuning the bow to the person is essential for accurate shooting. This gets overlooked in many cases. New archers will quit archery because they aren’t set up to be at their best. It gets very disheartening to give it your all but your equipment is lacking in performance.

Another benefit of brick and mortar establishment is when something goes bad with your bow, these shops have spent the money to make sure they can assist you with getting your bow back to par. Pro shops are extensions of the bow manufacturer. So when a situation may arise with your rig they have the ability to fix the problem the correct way with the correct parts. Just as if you had shipped it off to the manufacturer yourself. Sometimes even better.

In conclusion, the list could go on and on to the point we could write an entire book on how important and necessary a professional bow shop is. If you are interested in getting into archery or are already involved these establishments are necessary for your success on the line or in the woods. Here at Skull Hill Archery we pride ourselves in being one of those shops. If you have any questions or need anything for your archery venture please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

FULL SERVICE PRO SHOP

We are a fully stocked Pro shop for all your archery needs. Including consigned and new bows.

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THE ORIGINAL DEEP-DIVERS

By: Don Norton

In today’s world, deep-diving crankbaits are commonly used by most anglers, but few probably remember or even use the original deep-divers. Bombers and Hellbenders are probably in their fathers or grandfathers’ tackle box, but most are all but forgotten.

My favorite, the Hellbender was created in the mid-50s by James Heddon. James is credited with creating many of the original fishing lures from broomsticks in his kitchen. The earliest wood plugs were frog imitations. His company also produced the Torpedo, the Lucky 13 and the famous Zara Spook, not to mention many more.

The Heddon Lure Company was started in Dowagiac, Michigan in 1902, and is the oldest lure company that’s still making fishing products today. Within a short period of time they became extremely well known and their fishing products were unequaled in the industry.

Citing increased competition and wanting to quit during a profitable time, the Heddon family sold their business to the Murchinson family in 1955. Since then the company has been sold multiple times, finally ending up as part of EBSCO Industries. Many Heddon lures were copied by other firms, often with some subtle changes to avoid legal conflict.

The Hellbender was originally offered in dozens of crazy colors. I think the color pattern for my personal favorite was coachdog. Today, the lure is only offered in a small variety of colors.

Recently, while reading through a copy of the first BASSMASTER magazine (Spring of 1968), I read the story of big-bass legend Bill O’Connor and his amazing catch of five bass, the smallest 12 pounds and the largest 15, all caught on the Bomber and the Hellbender.

“The large Hellbenders are used along river channels and in deep holes,” O’Connor advised. “I prefer the muddiest water I can find…using a white Bomber or Hellbender, and fish it over logs and trees lying on the bottom.”

So, what is a hellbender? The hellbender is a salamander that got its name from early settlers who thought it looked like a creature from hell that was determined to return. They are known by many names, including “mud devil,” “snot otter,” “lasagna lizard,” and “Allegheny alligator” – it is thought the name “hellbender” comes from people believing they were creatures of the underworld bent on returning.

Hellbenders are often mistaken for mudpuppies; but unlike mudpuppies, hellbenders don't have external gills, they breathe through wrinkly folds located along their sides, and hellbenders are much larger in size.

The hellbender is a large, fully aquatic amphibian with a flat head, wrinkled body, and paddle-shaped tail. Its body is usually dark gray or brown with irregular dark spots along the back. Reaching four to five pounds (1.8 to 2.3 kilograms), the hellbender is the largest salamander in North America by weight. Adults average 20 inches (50 centimeters) in length but can grow up to 29 inches (73 centimeters).

Hellbenders typically live under large rocks or boulders that are partially buried in cold, fast-flowing streams. These rocks provide protection from

predators, and hellbenders may abandon a habitat if the rocks are removed or disturbed. Juvenile hellbenders have many predators, including bass, turtles, water snakes, and other hellbenders.

“Back in the 40’s and 50’s, many bass fishermen were being exposed to deep water for the first time,” claimed Jim Bourdon, a lure collector and expert on both lures, and the author of a book on Bombers. “New lakes were being built, many of them deeper than these anglers had ever fished.” At the same time, America’s war effort caused a lack of materials for lure manufacturers. Bourdon points out. “It was a time when fishermen began making their own lures.”

Two Texas fishermen, Ike Walker and C.S. “Turby” Turbeville fished their local lakes and the deep, brushy Lake Murray in Oklahoma. Their favored lure was the Creek Chub Crawdad, which proved to be of erratic swimming quality and less than a deep diver.”

In his Bomber book, Bourdon relates how wheels started turning in the heads of Ike and Turby. They experimented with adding an elongated, nonfixed line tie to the Creek Chub lures and found this modification delivered more consistent performance. They also discovered a straight metal lip greatly increased the lures diving capability. In the early 40’s, they constructed their first deep diver in the garage used by Ike for his OK Tire & Rubber business in Gainesville.

Methods and materials were crude. Lips and line ties were fashioned from old cook stoves and Prince Albert tobacco bins. A hand lathe and pieces of Northern white cedar were used for the body. Shoelace eyes served as cups around the hook hangers. Bourdon notes that the finished product was dipped entirely in black enamel. “The partners were adamant that the body, hooks, lip and other hardware were all painted to avoid reflection,” Bourdon says, “since the original Bomber was designed to mimic a crawfish.

The Bomber Bait Company was incorporated in 1946, although research shows prototypes were made as early as 1942.

The original Bomber’s shape reflects what was on the mind of most Americans during World War II, when the plug was first created.

Around the same time, Fred Eder, a former soap salesman who would hang around the Bomber Bait Company started his own lure company by the name Whopper Stopper. They were similar in shape to the Bomber and the Hellbender.

Bombers and Hellbenders were soon considered the “contact kings” among hard baits. These lures were built to bump and bang over, around and through almost any piece of structure a bass angler is likely to encounter.

Many of you may not recall the “bass explosion” in the late 60’s and early 70’s when reservoirs like Toledo Bend and Sam Rayburn in Texas and Eufaula in Alabama produced big bass in the thousands (little thought was given to catch and release back then), and most tackles boxes were crammed full of Bomber and Hellbender lures.

Even prior to this, metal-lipped baits made their mark on bass fishing history. George Perry used a Creek Chub Wiggle-Fish in 1932 to catch the world record largemouth bass in Georgia, and David Hayes used a Bomber in 1955 to catch the world record smallmouth bass.

I can remember using the Hellbender in many of the deep-water lakes in Northeastern Ohio back in the 70’s. More than once, casting the lure parallel to a weed bed or straight down along a rocky bottom, my prayers were answered with a big smallmouth or largemouth bass. The lure also caught walleyes and pike.

If you don’t own a few of these great lures, get a couple and try them out. You might just be surprised at how effective they are at catching bass.

Capt. Dave Stephens W

REPORT & FORECAST

e are approaching the time of year when a little bit of everything is happening.

The water is consistently staying warm enough for tarpon to start showing up in the harbor. Snook are feeding very good getting ready for the summer spawn. Trout are on the local flats and bars. Areas with grass and sand holes mixed in 3 - 4' of water normally will be holding good fish.

Often drifting is very successful. Once you catch a couple fish anchor up and work that area. A fish that is often overlooked that migrates south in the spring is Spanish Mackerel. These guys can often be found in large schools in the harbor and are a lot of fun to catch. You can fish them in many different ways. The most popular way is to anchor up on one of the local reefs in the harbor and chum with live bait. You can also put out a chum bag to help get a chum slick going.

Another popular way is trolling, most people like to troll little squid spoons with a small piece of light wire. If this is the technique you prefer locating birds like turns will help to find feeding fish. If you decide to anchor up and chum, I recommend having a big rod ready with a bigger bait. All this chumming could possibly attract a cobia or possibly a shark or two. This time of year, the options are wide open, so maybe spend a day outside your normal pattern. You never know you might find something you really enjoy.

— Capt. Dave Stephens 941-916-5769 | www.backbayxtremes.com

Last month the FWC Ridge Rangers teamed up with Highlands County Board County of Commissioners in a new and exciting partnership to improve critical wildlife habitat.

The collaboration kicked off on a beautiful January morning when the Ridge Rangers met with Sam Ericksen, Natural Resource Specialist for Highlands County, at Sun N' Lake Preserve in Sebring, FL. Removing

invasive species from the Preserve’s main trail system was identified as the most immediate conservation goal of the day. Target species number one was Dianella lily (dianella tasmanica), an invasive plant unfamiliar to many Ridge Ranger volunteers.

Ericksen demonstrated how to identify and spot Dianella lily along the trails and each Ridge Ranger claimed a focal section of trail. Success followed just three short hours later, after volunteers collected approximately 20 bags of the invasive plant!

Ridge Ranger volunteers said they "enjoyed working in a new area in Highlands County and exploring Sun N' Lake’s beautiful trail system, while still achieving great work in conservation." Although Ridge Rangers dedicate around 75% of their volunteer efforts in Highlands County, this marks the first time the Ridge Ranger volunteers and County staff have come together with a shared goal. This collaboration is just the beginning for the two groups, with future projects already planned.

For more information on how to join the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Ridge Ranger Volunteer Program, contact Jonathan Foligno at Jonathan.Foligno@myfwc.com.

— Ridge Rangers and FWC biologists plan to continue this work at Carter Creek through March.

For more information about volunteering for these workdays, please contact Jonathan Foligno at Jonathan.Foligno myfwc.com.

Enjoy a Hunt of a Lifetime

Located on 2,000 acres of Florida bays, pines, palmettos, and oaks, outside the small town of Lake Placid, the Lightsey Family Ranch is perfect for the avid hunter and outdoorsman. Owner and lifelong hunter, Lee Lightsey, offers you to a one-of-a-kind hunting experience, including wild hog, quail, pheasant, turkey, deer, and alligator hunts. During your hunt you are welcome to stay at our lodge which features room for up to 28 guests, a large lobby with a true old Florida feel, and a full time Chef ready to prepare your meals.

Start Living Life Again

Hearing aids DON’T make you look older. But, constantly saying,”what” DOES make you feel that way!

• Share a laugh- stay connected & savor life

• Look confident- hearing aids are now so tiny, they’re virtually invisable

• Be happier- hearing aids help keep you independent

• Stay healthier- good hearing protects against memory problems & falls

• Excel at work- perform at your best & maintain earning power

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Hearing Evaluations

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Hearing

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Hearing Accessories

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Additional

• Hearing aid repair services for all makes and models

• Hearing aid cleaning services

• Routine maintenance and cleaning

• Rehabilitation Services

• Cerumen Management (earwax removal)

• Counseling for hearing loss and Tinnitus

• Seminars for groups and organizations including support groups

55 YEARS

HARRISON SW FLORIDA REEL GIANT

Until recently, very little was known about a masterfully designed line of Florida saltwater reels created by T. Felton Harrison of Pensacola, Florida

elementary education. She then worked for Escambia County School System as a principle at N.B. Cook and Navy Point Elementary Schools.

Each reel was offered in a Direct Drive and Anti-Reverse model and could be purchased in the following colors: Gold, Black, and Pewter T. Felton Harrison Sr. was the President of Pensacola State College (aka Pensacola Junior College) from 1964-1980. Although his job entailed administration of the school he would always find the time to meet with the school sailing club and talk about his love for the hobby. President Harrison’s most noteworthy accomplishment, by school standards, was spearheading the merger of PJC with Booker T. Washington Junior College (WJC) in 1965. WJC was the first black junior college built in Florida and had served the black community since 1949. Jr.'s mother, Dr. Mary Ruth Harrison was initially a classical pianist but decided to have, what she referred to as, a normal family life and taught music while raising her young son. Her love for learning and children lead her to later earn her doctorate in

T. Felton Harrison Jr. was the oldest of 3 children (1 boy and 2 girls). He was born in Gainesville, Fl., but moved to Pensacola at a very early age. With the tremendous influence of two great minds in his life, the drive to excel was ever present. Although much of his weeks were filled with school, music lessons, and choirs, he would greatly anticipate the opportunities to get on the water. "Felton grew up on the water and cherished the time with his father... fishing was truly their passion", said a family member. A graduate of Pensacola High School, he then went on to pursue his A.A. from Pensacola Junior College and B.A. from the University of West Florida. During his college years he played the organ in a local band called The Laymens. After college Harrison went to work for Westinghouse in the sales/purchasing department where he dealt with aerospace and high security government contracts for over 20 years. After leaving Westinghouse Harrison began to give thought to a possible new endeavor. He was confident saltwater fly reels, then available in the marketplace, could be improved upon with knowledge he gained from the aerospace industry. Implementation of this new concept would come shortly.

T. Felton Harrison Jr. was known as a very interesting and unique individual. He was organized, methodical, and a bit 'quirky' according to his friends. He spent much of his free-time focused on fishing in some way, shape, or form. From trips out on the water and writing stories of fishing adventures to dreams of elite tackle design and construction. Calling fishing just a hobby would have been an understatement; fishing was truly a way of life. Harrison’s vivid imagination and unique way of storytelling could inspire an ordinary trip onto paper as a magnificent tall tale that included funny characters, epics battles, and a plot that would have you waiting for what could possibly come next. His writings have been featured in Florida Sportsman, Fly Fishing Journal, and Gray’s Sporting Journal to name a few.

In the late 1980's T. Felton Harrison Jr., of Pensacola, Florida, set out to construct the best saltwater fly reels ever built. When he began this

endeavor he reached out a friend and co-worker who owned a local machine shop, Machine Tool Master, Inc. MTM was located at 2251 North E. Street, Pensacola and specialized in machining and fabrication. His connection with Westinghouse allowed him to tap into the greatest minds in the nuclear and aerospace industry for input on design and construction material of this quality reel. His relationship with MTM machine shop gave him the great ability to experiment with these designs and material options. Harrison also utilized his connection with longtime friend and fishing buddy Bill Greer, Senior Field Editor for Florida Sportsman Magazine, to gain additional insight from the fishing community. A process of elimination began from the basic aluminum and steel construction all the way to the very advanced palladium and beryllium used in construction of reactors and orbiting vehicles. As a result of this, he concluded that pure titanium, titanium alloy, and uniquely processed aluminum alloys would best suite his needs for this project. Harrison also reinvented the wheel, if you will, by modifying a basic cork drag to a graphite impregnated cork drag. He then incorporated a polished

Custom Built BAMBOO FLYRODS

Jim Haynie was a master craftsman with expertise in gunsmithing as well as bamboo flyrods.

After retiring from the gunsmithing business, Jim taught himself how to not only build split bamboo flyrods, but he also built the equipment he needed to split and exact measurements for each section.

A master who passed away in 2021, he left behind a few of his flyrods and they are once again being offered for sale. If you have any interest in owning a “one-of-a-kind” custom built split bamboo rod, built locally in Avon Park Florida by Jim, please give us a call or text for more information.

titanium drag plate pinned and bonded to two hand milled titanium palls. According to Harrison, this system was designed to be smooth as silk, almost indestructible, and able to move tremendous amounts of heat away from the drag without distortion to the system. Once a reel was purchased it was fabricated to the highest quality and precision by 2 of the best machinists known in the business at that time. Each reel was machined and pieces hand fitted without the assistance of a single computer controlled machine. Every reel maintains a tolerance of One/one-thousandths of an inch or less, end to end. Each reel was then tested on a 40 year life cycle, simulating 40 years of use and exposures not just 40 years of ownership. These processes ensured that all components were analyzed and tested to ASTM and MIL standards for corrosion resistance, wear, fatigue, fracture toughness, and even thermal analysis. According to friends and family, "Harrison was truly obsessed with making the very best fly reel". Following a brief illness at the age of 55, T. Felton Harrison passed away on September 29, 2002.

— Stephen Rampersad, Lure Collector

By Doug Williams

Doc’s Menhaden Minnow COLLECTING LURE

Doc," was William D. Gardiner, born December 17, 1896 in Chandler, Florida. Doc opened his medical practice in Sanford, Florida in 1922, and began experimenting with fishing lure designs in his garage.

Doc’s first lure creation was a wooden bait, shaped and painted to resemble a brightly colored sunfish. Unfortunately, that lure did not perform to Doc’s satisfaction, because it would not dive deep enough, and would spin around and turn sideways when fished.

Turning to metal, Doc created eight to ten prototypes using his own molds until he settled on a lure body shaped like the Menhaden, a saltwater baitfish that spawned in the Sanford area. Doc’s Menhaden Minnow was cast of aluminum and buffed by hand to a bright luster. As demand for Doc’s Menhaden grew, Gardiner registered his Sanford Metal Bait Company with the Seminole County Courthouse around 1952.

Doc’s Menhaden was produced in three sizes, advertised nationally, and packaged in two variations of a two-piece cardboard box. An instruction paper found in the box directed the fisherman to “At times, fish deeper and slow, lift rod and give reel three or four turns, pause somewhat in rhythmic intervals.” The lure was often fished with a small trailing bucktail lure, a combination attractive to specks and largemouth bass.

The majority of Doc’s Menhaden Minnows found today have a bare metal finish, others are painted in bright colors, and interesting, artistic patterns. It is

believed that Doc painted those lures himself, occasionally assisted by his wife Marge. Doc’s Menhaden Minnows were produced until the Gardiners moved away from Sanford in the early 1960’s.

I found the most interesting part of Dr. Gardiner’s history was his sage advice imparted at the end of the lure’s instruction paper. “Why not give yourself a break and go fishing. You cannot worry, and you’ll forget your troubles, hoping a big one strikes. Take a tip-give it a flip (Doc’s Menhaden) and have a whale of a time. It’s good for you, believe me. You will live longer.” That is the best advice from a doctor I have heard in a long time.

If you would like to learn more about vintage, antique, or collectible fishing tackle, feel free to contact me via text or telephone at 305-926-7526.

ASK RED

By Don Norton

Are there Big Bass in Lake Istokpoga

lbs). A bass over ten pounds qualifies for the Trophy Club (10.0 to 12.9 lbs), and a bass over thirteen pounds meets the criteria for the Hall-of-Fame (13 pounds and greater).

Those are certainly BIG bass by anyone’s account.

Spring and early summer are good to bass fishermen on Lake Istokpoga. Between February and the middle of June in 2018, the 27,692-acre lake in Highlands County produced nearly 100 largemouth bass registered with Florida’s

The highlights that year from the big-bass factory northwest of Lake Okeechobee were two largemouth bass that qualified for TrophyCatch’s Hall of Fame, which means they weighed more than 13 pounds.

On March 25, 2018, Syl Sims caught a 13-pound, 4-ounce bass from Istokpoga. He caught it with the Enigma fishing rod he won for catching a Hall of Fame bass in 2017. That fish weighed 13-pounds, 2-ounces and Syl caught it out of Huckleberry Lake in Orlando.

Come Outside & Play!

Experience world-class bass fishing in the heart of Okeechobee, FL, where every cast is an opportunity for an unforgettable catch.

Adrian “Lunker Louie” Echols caught the second Istokpoga hall of famer. He has 50 bass heavier than 8 pounds and registered with TrophyCatch. Although he has come close before, the 13-pound, 14-ounce fish he caught from Istokpoga on June 6, 2018 is his first to qualify for Hall of Fame status and remains the largest bass caught out of Lake Istokpoga on record.

THE NEW HOTEL &

By Don Norton

Every year, thousands of anglers travel to Lake Okeechobee, The Bass Capital of the World, the largest freshwater lake in Florida and the second-largest natural freshwater lake contained entirely within the contiguous 48 states in the hope of catching that trophy bass.

Now there is a world class hotel and casino, the New Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel and Casino less than 4 miles from Harney Pond, one of the best launch sites on the lake.

I had the opportunity to meet the General Manager, Marty Johns, along with Chris Diato and Aaron Mollura at the EE-TO-LEET-KE grill, inside the casino to learn more about it.

Like many bass fishermen, I’ve driven south on Rt. 78 many times to launch my boat on the canal in Harney Pond on my way to Fisheating Bay. As many anglers know, that is one of the best areas on the big lake.

Fisheating Bay and Fisheating Creek got their name from the Seminole Tribe who recorded the name on a military map in 1839, Thlothlopopka-Hatchee, translated as “the river where fish are eaten.”

I live in Sebring, so I have always gotten up early to head to the lake. Now, like anglers from all over the country, I can get a room at the hotel, get up, have breakfast and be on the water early without the long morning drive.

Harney Pond has always been my choice, as it has for other bass and crappie fishermen, and now, with a hotel and casino right next door, it couldn’t be more convenient.

I’ve got a friend from up north coming down in a couple of weeks and I plan to stay in the hotel for a couple of days, so we don’t have to get up early and make the drive. Plus, when the sun comes up and it gets too hot to fish, we plan to spend the afternoon in the casino, followed by dinner at the Josiah Steakhouse. It’s a perfect setup for anyone making a trip to Lake Okeechobee.

The new Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino opened its doors Thursday, February 6th, following a grand opening celebration featuring a

SEMINOLE BRIGHTON BAY & CASINO IS NOW OPEN

special performance by country music artist John Anderson. The grand opening celebration also showcased a traditional Seminole alligator procession, a symbol of prosperity. The final celebration of the day included a concert by the iconic rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd.

Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino is one of six casinos owned and operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida. It is located just west of Lake Okeechobee on the Brighton Seminole Reservation. The first four-star resort in the Lake Okeechobee region, it replaces Seminole Casino Brighton, which opened in 1980.

Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino includes a casino with a total of nearly 38,000 square feet, including space for 640 slot machines and 18 tables for blackjack, craps, roulette, and other house-banked card games, along with high-stakes bingo action. Included is a smokefree gaming space with 104 slot machines and a high-limit gaming area with 42 slot machines and four table games.

"This grand opening is a proud moment for the Seminole Tribe of Florida, the Brighton Seminole Reservation, and the entire region," said Marty Johns, General Manager. "We are excited to welcome guests to a new era of gaming, dining, and entertainment that will enhance tourism and community growth.”

First Hotel on Brighton Seminole Reservation

Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino includes the first hotel to open on the Brighton Seminole Reservation. It features 100 guest rooms on four floors, totaling 72,000 square feet. Guest rooms include a mix of rooms with either one king bed or two queen beds, plus three suites, a fitness center and an outdoor swimming pool with a bar and entertainment stage.

“Today marks a historic moment for the Brighton Reservation and the Seminole Tribe of Florida,” said Larry Howard, Seminole Tribe of Florida Brighton Reservation

Councilman. “The grand opening of the Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino is not just about a new building, it is about growth, opportunity, and a bright future for our community. This project

represents our commitment to honoring our heritage while embracing progress, and we are proud to welcome guests to experience the hospitality, culture, and excitement that make Seminole gaming truly special.”

Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino is accepting reservations via Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino or by calling Customer Care at (800) 360-9875.

The complex features an indoor event space with 400 seats for banquet events or bingo games, or 900 seats set up as a performance hall, as well as a 10-lane bowling alley (Brighton Bay Bowling) of 7,044 square feet, a first for any Seminole Casino. Artwork and photography placed throughout the casino and in the hotel chronicles the history and culture of the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

Multiple Food and Beverage Options

Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino is home to four eateries, offering a wide range of dining options plus a place to relax and socialize with a favorite cocktail. They are:

Josiah Steakhouse: Josiah, a classic American Steakhouse known for the “Best Steak on the Lake,” offers a tender and delicious bone-in ribeye. Exceptional steaks are grilled to perfection on a wood fire grill. Offering an upbeat dining atmosphere, Josiah is an excellent choice for dining with friends and family or for celebrations com-

plimented by a selection of beers, wines, spirits, and handcrafted cocktails. It is a must-visit dining destination and since it is located inside Seminole Brighton Bay Casino, you are never more than a few steps away from winning.

EE-TO-LEET-KE Grill: Indulge your appetite with savory comfort food at EE-TOLEET-KE Grill, the new American Diner. EETO-LEET-KE means a place to gather. The restaurant celebrates fresh, seasonal produce with a time-honored menu offering options for any palate. The menu consists of an all-day breakfast, including griddled favorites and skillets, salads, hearty burgers, sandwiches, and down-home classics.

Marketplace: This quick service restaurant space offers your favorite sips and bites; whether looking for the area’s best slice of pizza, sweet snack, or a coffee pick-me-up. Follow the alluring aromas to Constant Grind Coffee and Slice Pizza. Open daily, this casual sit down or grab-and-go venue is the perfect spot for casual bites, coffee, and espresso specialty drinks. It offers a great chance to indulge in freshly made pastries and sandwiches, plus artisanal chocolates that would sweeten any mood.

Center Bar: Offers a vibrant, high-energy atmosphere that attracts and engages guests. It serves as an entertainment hub with lively music, sociability, and interactive fun through video poker machines. The bar offers high-quality drinks and features engaging bartenders who add to the experience. Balancing elegance with accessibility, the bar fosters an inclusive environment where guests can enjoy excitement, connection, and top-tier service.

For more information about entertainment options and restaurants, including menus and current hours of operation, visit https://casino. hardrock.com/brighton.

Workforce Expands to Nearly 500 Members Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino has become one of the Lake Okeechobee region’s largest employers with more than 500 team members at the new casino and hotel complex.

So, to all of the anglers out there who live nearby, stop in, and check it out. And for those of you who live a distance away, give some thought to booking a room and spend a few days enjoying the casino, hotel, and the outstanding fishing in Lake Okeechobee.

The anglers fishing the Big Show Bass Tournament on February 8th, 2025 were met with pleasant weather conditions for a change. After a month of unseasonably cold and windy weather, the first week of February brought a hint of Spring and even Summer.

And the bass cooperated. Leading the pack with almost 30 pounds was the team of Todd Schlueter and Devin Hamby who weighed in five bass with a weight of 29.6 pounds. That’s an average of almost 6 pounds per fish. WOW! Can you imagine? That means if they caught a five-pounder, they’d have to just let it go since it wouldn’t help their weight.

Second Place, and not that far from 30 pounds was the team of Gregory Jones and Jeff Dexter with 27.12 pounds. Certainly, enough to win most tournaments. Third and Fourth place teams, Brad Day and Cody Craig with 25.13 pounds and Eric Gaines and Bruce Noel with 25.4 pounds could have easily won most tournaments with their 25+ pound weights.

Fifth place went to the team of Corey Roberts and Darren Roberts with 22.15 pounds, followed closely by the team of Cory Vrabel and Brian Reeves with 22.1 who took Sixth Place.

Finishing in 7th Place was the team of Ben Roberts and Coleman Roberts with 20.8 pounds and in 8th Place was the team of Corky Neff and Steve Dial with 19.3 pounds.

Updates from Hunter Brousseau

Ihave hit the busiest part of my tournament schedule, and I am having the best time of my life. I am getting on and off airlines to and from tournaments and fishing all these places I have never been and it is a ton of work but I am learning my strengths as well as my weaknesses. Having just turned 13 years old I did a 10-week weightlifting program to physically prepare myself and it has helped a lot.

This traveling has opened my eyes to how events should be run and the professionalism that exists in this sport is amazing. I can now say I have seen two great platforms in this industry and one which is entry level run by parents and lacks what’s needed to excel at this sport. Both exist due to demand and the desire to compete, but a person must push themselves to be better and not settle on just going through the motions.

I will be writing in a future article about upcoming happenings and some really exciting news and also all the new sponsors and all the others stepping up their investment in me. As always please feel free to reach out and let us know if you have any questions.

Tight lines and Thank You to all.

1st Place Schlueter and Hamby | 29.6 lbs

Capt. Angie Douthit

Okeechobee REPORT & FORECAST

Lake Okeechobee’s water level is low, but the fishing has been on fire for bass fishing with live/artificial lures; crappie using minnows in deeper water and jigging for them in the shallows on/ around the beds.

I’m starting to see bluegill beds in the shallows so now is a great time to book your fun day fishing with using ultra-light tackle or bring your favorite fly-fishing rod, you may even land some other species as well such as cichlids; small bass and red-ear sunfish. The bream time of year is typically AprilSeptember. Bass will follow the bream and it is a fun time to fish with frogs; swim baits/swim jigs and top water lures worked slowly in/around the bream beds.

If you’ve never experienced fishing on Lake Okeechobee now is the time to book your fun and educational trip of a lifetime. There are a few boat ramps to meet, such as the Scott Driver Park located in Okeechobee on the Kissimmee River; Indian Praire Canal (west of Scott Driver) and Harney Pond canal located in Lakeport just on down the road from Indian Praire ramp.

Right now, what’s biting the best is bass and bluegill and some crappie but the spawn season is just about over for the specks until next November timeframe. The bream are great to eat and if you need your fish cleaned, that’s no problem, and I will clean and bag your fish for a minimal fee.

Areas that fish are being caught right now are some areas on the Shoal (west-side); some spotty areas around the tip of the Monkey Box and Dyess Ditch; on up around the point of Horse Island to Indian Praire area; Tin House; 2nd point; around Buckhead Ridge; some spots on Kings Bar and Grassy. On windy days, don’t forget to fish in the Canals and the River.

Lure choices for bass are: june bug; white; red shad; black/blue/blue; crawdad; tilapia; watermelon/red. Bait for bluegill are small red worms and livecrickets and for Crappie is live-minnows and lures such as small tubes/jigs.

To book your fun-filled and educational day on the water call me at 863-228-7263 or log onto my website www.southfloridabassfishing.com for more information; up-to-date customer pictures and their catches; hotel info; fishing licenses; what to bring and etc. A big shout out to my Sponsors: Mercury Marine; Caymas bass boats (Toho Marine); Gene Larew; BnM Poles; Pradco Brands; Gill; Bullet Weights; G-Loomis; Mega Strike; Rapala; Lews and Navionics. For all your tackle needs visit Big Water Bait & Tackle store located in Lakeport, Florida located close to the Harney Pond Canal boat ramp.

“My brother and I had a blast fishing with Corky. The fishing was pretty good, as long as you were moving around. Corky never kept us at a standstill, recognizing each time it was time to move to the next one to avoid a doldrum, we were constantly busy. The boat was clean and ready to fish, the waters were cold and Corky was quick and eager to get us fishing. It was a great way to burn up the afternoon, I’m sure we’ll be fishing with Corky again.”

- Christian G

“My father and I had a time crappie fishing with Tangie. The fishing was tough but Tangie was persistent in finding the right spots and we ended up having a very productive day. Plus Tangie is just a joy to be around. Thanks for a great day!”

- David D.

The Most FishingExpensiveLure

By: Don Norton

How much is a good fishing lure worth? Ten bucks? Twenty dollars? How about a $100, or even $1000?

Maybe, like me, you can remember when you could buy a good fishing lure for less than a dollar. Times have changed. In 1940, one of the most famous lures ever made, the Jitterbug, manufactured by the Fred Arbogast Company in Akron, Ohio sold for $1.00 each.

So, what makes one lure better than another?

Certainly, advertising makes a difference. Making claims of a fish catching lure will often catch the attention of most anglers. So do testimonials from well-known, professional anglers. Television shows, You Tube videos and Facebook ads also help. But the truth is, bass in particular will hit almost anything if they’re hungry or it moves and looks like it will fit into their mouth.

As the price of modern-day fishing tackle increases, most anglers are always looking for that “hot, new bait” that somehow catches more fish than anything else they may already own. But what actually drives the price, or value isn’t always determined by the lure’s effectiveness. In many cases, it comes down to scarcity, or just how many of a particular lure are even out there, available to purchase.

This is where lure collecting, particularly old or antique lure collecting comes into play. I’ve collected old fishing lures off and on for the last 50 years. My problem, and one shared by other collectors, was storage. I started by displaying my lures in a nice display case, which quickly filled and lead to another display case, then another. It wasn’t long before I started using plastic boxes, and one box turned into a dozen boxes, and ultimately became a storage problem.

Personally, the best part of lure collecting is being able to display your lures and look at them from time to time. In my case, I had so many, there just wasn’t room to display them all and because they were out of sight, I’d forget about them.

Eventually, I sold many of them to other collectors on websites like eBay and swap meets. But, unlike me, some collectors continued to collect, often refining their collectables to certain manufacturers or lures.

That explains how many lures have become so valuable.

For example, I’ve written many articles about Fred C. Young’s Big O fishing lure that he handcrafted back in the 60s and 70s, and the rarity of that lure in today’s world, as well as the price.

For years I’ve searched eBay and online auctions looking for an authentic, original Big O and it wasn’t until recently that I was able to purchase one from a friend of a friend who is an avid collector. The price? Over $600.00 for a lure that originally sold for $10.00 or less. But it’s kind of like buying land…. they’re not making any more!

Having the opportunity to buy a rare lure like a Big O got me thinking, wondering, what is the most expensive lure ever sold?

The 1853 copper Giant Haskell Minnow is likely the most expensive production lure ever sold. When bidding ended in 2003 at a whopping $101,200, this lure became the highest-priced fishing-related collectible sold at auction.

Unbelievable. Over a $100,000 for a lure most people, myself included, have never seen or heard of.

The five most expensive antique lures, according to Lang’s Auctions ((http://www.langsauction.com) in existence are:

1. Heddon Dowagiac Expert –$17,600

Invented by beekeeper and newspaperman Jaes Heddon, this turn-of-the-century lure was named after Dowagiac, Michigan, where Heddon worked. Originally sold as the Dowagiac Casting Bait, Heddon

eventually shortened the name to the blue and white lure to the “Dowagiac Expert.” Very few copies of this lure survive to this day, and fewer still in good condition. Demand for the Dowagiac Expert is so high that the white cardboard box it came in can sell for as high as $1000 without the lure itself.

2. Shakespeare Muskellunge

Minnow - $23,100

The Shakespeare Muskellunge Minnow is a part of the legacy that lure maker William Shakespeare, Jr., left behind. The son of a banker, Shakespeare revolutioned the industry with the introduction of his aptly named “Revolution” lure in the late 1890s. Equipped with three treble hooks and a propeller, it was one of the earliest wooden baits sold in the United States.

3. Chautaugua Minnow - $37,400

Made by Krantz & Smith of New York in 1908, this lure was actually not well-received when it was first introduced. That was because anglers found that the lure was ineffective and generally had a low success rate when it came to catching fish. The low demand at the time meant that production was cut off shortly before the first few Chautauqua Minnows were made, making them especially rare to collectors. Count yourself lucky if you manage to find one of these because at one time in its history, somebody saved it from the scrap heap.

4. Unidentified First American Wooden Minnow - $42,560

Listed as the “single most historic and important wooden minnow to ever come to auction,” this lure is considered the predecessor of all American wooden underwater lures. According to auctioneers, this mysterious lure was found in a tackle box of an Ohio angler next to an assortment of antique fishing tackle. Although historians were not able to trace the manufacturer of this rare and possibly one-of-a-kind lure, it is compared as practically identical to early Trory minnows. This particular lure is described as in very good condition despite dating from the late 1890s.

5. Giant Haskell

Minow - $101,200

The 1853 copper Giant Haskell Minnow is likely the most expensive production lure ever sold. When bidding ended in 2003 at a whopping $101,200, this lure became the highest priced fishing related collectible sold at auction. While there have been reports of other Giant Haskel Minnows in the hands of private collectors, so far this is the only one to have surfaced. Produced by gunsmith Riley Haskel in 1859, the lure was one of the first that actually resembled a fish. Its revolving tail also made it the first animated lure to be sold in America. While there are a number of smaller Haskell lures, the exclusivity of this 10-inch minnow makes it worth more than its weight in gold.

Everybody has a couple of lures lying around somewhere that haven’t been used in a long time, maybe never used. Maybe they belonged to a family member who has passed on. Maybe they belonged to your grandfather, or his father.

They might just be worth a lot of money!

O The Most Famous Lure Ever Invented The BIG

By: Don Norton

Can you imagine a fishing lure so good you could actually “rent” it? Obviously, its reputation would have had to be epic.

It’s true. In 1973, for the handsome fee of $25.00, you could rent one of Fred C. Young’s Big O’s, provided you also put up another $25.00 deposit. Stories circulated that fishermen were paying as much as $100.00 for these hand-carved, balsa crankbaits.

My dad was dying from cancer at the time, and my Uncle Bill and I would spend hours talking with him about fishing. We’d all heard about this newfangled, fat-bodied diving bait, but no-one in our area had ever seen one.

I remember my uncle drove down to Tennessee from his home in Stow, Ohio just to buy a couple and when he returned, he gave me and my dad each one of the incredible lures. Back then, most of our bass fishing was done with spoons and topwater plugs and the new variety of plastic worms (we called em’ rubber worms back then).

This lure was a real game-changer.

I had only been out of the service for a couple of years and with the help of a few of my buddies, we started one of the earliest B.A.S.S. chapters, called The Stow Bulldogs. (Our high school mascot was a bulldog)

Like a number of guys, I had been fishing my whole life and now it seemed you could actually make money fishing bass tournaments. Having a lure like the Big O was like winning the lottery.

But in order to tell the whole story, I relied on Mike Orzell’s account on Tackle History, January 2, 2023. In his lengthy article entitled “Fred C. Young Big-O” he wrote: Just about 50 years ago, a new and exciting lure hit the bass fishing scene that forever altered the bass tournament landscape as well as the design and shape of almost all future crankbaits. A lure originally cloaked in mystery and seemingly unavailability for fisherman just hearing of its success. A bait so valuable and limited that it was “rented” out to hungry tournament anglers for $25.00 per day, with an additional $25 deposit to ensure its return. An original and unique hand-carved and hand-painted bait that was transported in an empty egg carton for protection. A bait that came along with impeccable timing just as national bass tournaments were coming of age. A lure that inspired countless imitations and almost single-handedly created the “squarebill” crankbait

phenomenom. That lure was the original Big-O.”

Orzell goes on to write about the “early years”. Fred Young was a resident of Oak Ridge. Tennessee and was employed by the nearby Atomic Energy Commission in the 1960s. Fred was also a fisherman and when two serious work related back injuries sidelined him, he continued his hobby of bait carving in earnest. Fred had tinkered for years with both his designs and construction of the bait. He initially used cedar, and then white pine, redwood and yellow poplar before finally settling on balsa wood for the body. He also worked tirelessly on lip design and construction before eventually determining that circuit board provided the best durability and strength.

His brother, Odis, became his “field Tester” and it was in the late sixties that Odis informed Fred that one design in particular was a real fish catcher. That design was the famous “pregnant” plug shape that would ultimately be named the Big-O, after Odis, who was a large, imposing man. Local anglers began to take notice of Odis’ fish catches and like all fisherman wanted to know what he caught them on. One of the area’s top anglers was Bill Nichols, and when he got wind of the new fish catching plug, he made a special visit to Fred’s house to see if he could wrangle some for himself.

Bill eventually began winning local Atomic Bass Club Tournaments on the lure, and he spread the word to fellow anglers like Billy Westmoreland and Blake Honeycutt. It didn’t take long for word of the plug;s success to reach the increasingly popular Bassmaster tournament trail. By 1972, a few lucky anglers were getting their hands on the baits and having success. Odis Young was actually selling the baits out of the trunk of his car at the Watts Bar Lake BASS Master Invitational tournament that year.

And then 1973 happened.

1973 and Alphabet Soup

The majority of the early BASS Master tournaments had been won using either plastic worms or spinnerbaits.  With the success of the Big-O, crankbaits started making inroads into the winner’s circle.  In February 1973 at the BASS Master Florida Invitational, Larry Hill of Winston-Salem, North Carolina weighed in 108 lbs. of bass, including a then record 10-bass limit from Rodman Reservoir weighing 60 lbs., 1 ounce.  His record limit from Rodman had all come on Fred’s hand-carved Big-O.  Demand for the plug was now reaching the boiling point.

At around this same time, Bobby Murray, winner of the first BASS Masters Classic, was working for the Cotton Cordell Lure Company.  He was impressed with Fred’s plug and sent one back to Hot Springs, Arkansas to his boss.  Cotton was anxious to track down the inventor and discuss striking a deal to massproduce the plug that was starting to garner national attention.

Fred Young and Bill Nichols

Apparently, Cotton and Fred bonded well and a deal was struck for Cordell to start manufacturing Fred’s bait, albeit in a plastic model.  The lure was an instant success and Cordell sold well over a million baits in the first year of production alone.

Like any new successful fishing lure, the imitators arrived quickly and often, almost every one named with the preface of “Big”.  Bagley baits had one of the few balsa plugs, the Big B, which was soon renamed the Balsa B, to highlight its balsa construction.  Plastic versions included Bill Norman’s Big N, Rogers’ Big Jim, and later, Heddon’s Big Hedd.  There were also some regional variations that appeared.  One deserving special mention is the Big E, a balsa creation of Mike Estep, who was a friend of Fred’s from the Oak Ridge region, and apprenticed under Fred’s carving tutelage.  Mike’s plug would become a favorite of Roland Martin in the early 1970s. By the end of 1973 the “Alphabet” plug revolution was in full swing.

Fishing the new bait, however, required a bit of technique refinement as Rick Clunn divulged in a 2018 posting by author Steve Price on Bassmaster.com.

“At a tournament at Lake Gaston, Clunn had another dramatic experience that has also shaped his fishing ever since, the day he was paired with Fred Young, the maker of the legendary Big O crankbait”, Price said.  “He knew of Young and the Big–O but did not have access to any of them, so Young gave him two to use.

“I wasn’t having a very good tournament, and that afternoon, out of courtesy to him, I tied on one of his crankbaits and started casting it,” Clunn recalls.  “Fred was sitting down in the back, and after watching me a few minutes, he said, ‘Son, let me show you how to fish that lure.’

“He made a cast,” Clunn continues, “then started turning the reel handle faster than anyone I’d ever seen before.  He made two or three casts, then gave it back to me. ‘You never stop it,’ he said, ‘unless you hit something. When you do hit something, pause it, then you burn it again. Some will hit it slow, but if you burn it, they’ll try to swallow it.’

“At first, I wasn’t sure whether to believe him, but everything he said was absolutely true. Later, I won the Missouri Invitational on Lake Truman, an FLW event on Beaver Lake, and came close many other times, doing exactly what he taught me. I had started my crankbait fishing in the bass club with a Hellbender

and felt pretty confident with it, but Fred Young opened a whole new world for me that day, and I still follow his advice.”

A Lasting Legacy

After selling production rights to Cotton Cordell in 1973, Fred still continued to make his own handmade Big-O versions and design and carve various other balsa creations.  Little did he or anyone else know how much his famous plug would continue to alter the evolution and design of crankbaits for years to come.  After the initial surge of the Alphabet plug squarebills, manufacturers began taking the same design and adding deep diving lips. Bagley’s Divin’ B’s, Cordell Deep Big-O’s and Rebel’s Wee/Mini/Maxi R series of diving baits all sported bodies based on Fred’s original design.  This evolution continues to this day; just take a look at the body shape of Rapala’s popular DT series, or Strike King’s lineup of crankbaits.  The influence of Fred Young’s creation is indisputable. Even today’s popular squarebills, the 1.5’s that everyone throws are just a smaller version of the Original Big-O.

You can buy the Cotton Cordell plastic Big O at most retail fishing tackle stores, and it is still an effective crankbait. The mystic of the original, handcarved model may never be fully understood.

It certainly lived up to its reputation and caught fish, but at the time there was nothing else like it on the market. Was it the originality of the lure that made it so effective? The shape, or the color? Perhaps the side-to side action that made it irresistible to bass?

We’ll probably never know. But if you’re lucky enough to own one and you decide to fish with it, just be careful.

It’s truly one of a kind.

Big O on eBay

Fair skies and warm weather greeted the fifty-two teams that showed up to fish the last in a series of six regular bass tournaments on March 2nd. A good day of fishing was predicted and, as it turned out, most of the folks who fished the event would agree.

Just a pound or so shy of a dirty thirty, the Team of Tedd and Chris Welch weighed in five fish, tipping the scales at 28.8 pounds. Their biggest bass, a 7.2 pounder wasn’t big enough for the big bass pot, but it accompanied three more bass over 6 pounds, and one bass at 3.15 pounds. A remarkable catch. More on that later.

Second Place honors went to the team of Roberts and Roberts, accustomed to being in the Winners Circle, they had five bass and a total weight of 23.7 pounds. They also won the big bass pot with their 8.4-pound bass.

Third Place was the team of Bradley & Yero with five bass weighing in at 20.6 pounds, followed by two teams, Schoenfelder and Hershberger, and Schluter and Hamby with tie for Fourth Place at 19.2 pounds.

The Fifth-Place team was Wilt and Dyer with 18.2 pounds. Sixth Place was Hart and Coleman with 16.6 pounds. Seventh Place with 16.4 pounds was the team of Day and Craig.

And in Eighth Place, two teams, Neff and Dial, Overstreet and Overstreet both weighed 16.2 pounds.

There were 178 bass weighed in and two bass over eight pounds were entered into the FWC’s Trophy Catch Program. I had the opportunity to talk to Tedd Welch after the tournament to learn more about how he and his son won the tournament.

Once again, proving it’s a small world, I realized we had met before. Six years ago, Tedd purchased one of my previous Ranger Boats. Tedd shared with me that he had found the spot on Lake Istokpoga four weeks earlier that was holding fish. Acres of pads with 4 ½’ to 5’ of water on the outside edge and 2’ – 3’ on the inside. They flipped and pitched the outside edge, with the same two baits all day long: a black & blue Bitters Salty Sling and a black, blue flake Missile D Bomb.

He said they had five bass by 10:30, but only one six pounder and four small ones. Just after 11:00 the bigger fish moved in and they ended up culling the four smaller fish with one over seven pounds, three over 6 pounds and a 3.15 they couldn’t cull.

Tedd attributed the change to two factors. The first thing was the wind picked up and the second, he noticed the small current that wasn’t noticeable earlier. He believed both contributed to their success. The bait had to be coming at the bass with the current.

He and his son are no strangers to fishing bass tournaments. Tedd fished the FLW for years and his son Chris is a former All-American Qualifier who started fishing at the highest level with B.A.S.S. when he was only twenty-one.

1st Place Tedd and Chris Welch | 28.8 lbs

HIGHLANDS COUNTY

AVON PARK

Avon Park Chamber of Commerce 28 E Main St

Wild Turkey ................................ 2751 US Highway 27 S

Palmer ACE Hardware 415 W Main St

Williams Pawn & Gun 937 W Main St

Pure Grit 907 W Main St

Hendricks Corner Bait Shop 202 East Main ST

Layes Tires ........................................ 1092 Locke Street

Bill Jarrett Auto 1305 US Highway 27 N

Big T Tires 1109 W Main Street

Huston Chevrolet 650 US Highway 27 S

SEBRING

Sebring Chamber of Commerce 202 Circle Park Drive, Beach House Books & More 3210 Physicians Way

Grateful Hearts 330 US Hwy 27N

McKibbens 7820 Tractor Rd

Schooners BBQ ............................... 4908 US Hwy 27 S

Sebring Diner 4040 US Highway 27 S

Truist South (Publix) 3012 US Highway 27 S

Truist North

Sherwin Williams 1132 Lakeview Drive

Sebring Toyota ............................ 404 US Highway 27 N

Hibachi Japan 2870 US Highway 27 N

Musselmans 4230 US Highway 27 N

Highlands County YMCA 100 YMCA Lane

Allen Jay Chev 441 US Hwy 27 N

Allen Jay Nissan .................................. 1700 Flare Road

Allen Jay Ford 5330 US Hwy 27 S

JRC Guns & Ammo 3033 US 27N

Food for Thought 315 US Hwy 27 N

Caddy Shack 3122 Golfview Rd

Triangle Hardware ........................... 3129 US Hwy 27 S

Marathon Bait Shop 3641 US Hwy 27 S

Mid Florida CU (South) 3686 US Hwy 27 S Pick up a copy

The Angler Magazine at

100 Local Suppor ting Companies

Glisson Animal Food Supply 4525 US Hwy 27 S

Taylor Rental 4611 US Hwy 27 S

Mid Florida Truck Parts 6203 US Hwy 27 S

Watering Hole 6813 US Hwy 27 S

Glades Pawn 7423 US Hwy 27 S

The 301 ........................................ 301 Circle Park Drive

Gallatis Pizza 607 S Commerce Ave

Gator Shack 4651 US Highway 98

Speak Easy / Golf Pro Shop 100 Clubhouse Ln

Seven Hotel 150 Midway Drive

Regional Airport/runway Café 128 Authority Lane

Spray & Pray 12135 US Highway 98

Sandes 98 Café ......................................... 12906 US-98

Okeechobee Outfitters 5260 Bluff Hammock Rd

LAKE PLACID

Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce 18 Oak St

Lake Placid Western Wear 417 US 27 S

Lake Placid Historical Society & Museum 19 Park St

Carlie Lynns Bar ....................................... 9119 US 27 S

ButtonWood RV Resort 10001 US 27 S

Oasis Pools 1174 US 27 N

Boaters World 730 US 27 N

Bass Addicts 490 US-27

Chamber of Commerce .................................. 18 Oak St

Hartzels Grocery Market 350 E Interlake Blvd

Tractor Supply Company 60 Plaza Ave

Lake Placid Marine 310 US 27 S

Big T Tires LP 624 US-27

Tabbys Bar & Grill .......................................... 800 US-27

Hendersons Fish Camp 35 Henderson Rd

OKEECHOBEE COUNTY

Okeechobee Chamber of Commerce 55 S Parrott Ave

Fast Break 1505 State Road 78 W

Seminole Brighton Bay

Hotel & Casino 15005 Reservation Rd

Eagle Bay Airboat Rides 900 Hwy 78 W

Lake & Trail USA Boat & Bait 1253 FL-78

Garrards .................................................... 4375 US-441

Lunkers Sports Grill ................. 4825 US Highway 441 S

Tractor Supply Co (TSC) 3371 US Highway 441 S

Skull Hill Archery 1505 S Parrott Ave

Sundown Fire Arms 2020 S Parrott Ave Ste 102

Lakeside Grill 1111 S Parrott Ave

Center Mass Gun Shop 1934 Center St

GLADES COUNTY

Lakeport Quik Shop 14296 E State Road 78

Water Bait & Tackle Shop 1027 Martin Blvd

PALMDALE

Gatorama ............................................... 10665 N US27 Fisheating Creek Outpost 7555 US 27

HENDRY COUNTY

CLEWISTON

Clewiston Chamber of Commerce........ 109 Central Ave Jolly Rogers Marina ................... 1095 E Sugarland Hwy Roland Martin Marina .................. 910 E Del Monte Ave Roland Martin Tackle Shop 920 E Del Monte Ave

Tractor Supply Co 975 W Sugarland Hwy

LABELLE

The Launch Rest .................... 303 Old County Road 78

Labelle Chamber of Commerce 125 E Hickpochee Ave

Trator Supply Com .................1840 Palma Beach Blvd

Labelle Ford 850 S Bridge St

White's Furniture 1060 S Main

DESOTO COUNTY

ARCADIA

Arcadia Stockyard 2719 Earnest St

Gator Guns & Ammo ........................ 715 N Brevard Ave Tractor Supply Co 1701 E Oak St

HARDEE COUNTY

ZOLPHO SPRINGS Pioneer Restaurant 2902 US-17

WAUCHULA

Caloosa Outfitters ....................................

Edgar Rods –

THE BEST RODS FOR CRAPPIE

Tangie Neff, a good friend of mine and a great crappie fishing guide on Lake Istokpoga swears by them. As do her clients and a number of other anglers who love to fish for crappies.

“The rods are just perfect for pulling those big slabs out of the bullrushes and the pads,” Tangie said when we discussed the rods recently.

“I think a lot of crappie fishermen would feel the same way if they had the opportunity to fish with one,” she continued.

I spoke to the local rep for Edgar Rods, David Bolema whose been around for years on the tournament scene and he echoed Tangies comments.

“I’ve been a rep for these rods for the last 5 years and I can tell you, our dealers have a hard time keeping them in stock during the crappie season, but we do our best to be prepared before the season starts,” he said.

Bolema, who lives in Sarasota, is not only a rep for Edgar Rods, but he’s also the rep for Reaper Rods, Bass Assassin, Epic Baits, Jackem’ Jigs and Lith-

ium Marine Batteries

There are a lot of crappie rods out there, perhaps not as many as bass rods, but Edgar Rods are a true standout here in Florida. The rods are available in three styles; The Kyler Beckman 11’ Live Scope Rod ($76.99); The Kyler Beckman 13’ Live Scope Rod $82.99 and the Florida Money Rod 11’ ($95.99).

The company, Edgar’s Outdoor Sports, was founded by Tony Edgar in 2002. Tony grew up in Versailles, Missouri about fifteen minutes from Lake of the Ozarks. He grew up with a love of the outdoors and he wanted to create a store that would provide the avid hunter or fisherman with everything necessary to go out and enjoy the outdoors.

Edgars Outdoor Sports started as a small store just outside Versailles. In 2007 Tony moved just down the road to a new and larger building. With that move, inventory grew, and Edgar’s Outdoor Sports began to offer a wider range of hunting and fishing accessories. Tony has now opened up online sales to go along with the in-store sales that had been offering his products.

Locally, you can find the rods at Bass Addict in Lake Placid and Lake Placid Marine. In Okeechobee, Look for them at Garrards and Fast Break.

Bolema has also been very successful with the other products he represents. Reaper Rods has gained a tremendous following as a great bass fishing rod, thanks in part to Tangies’ husband Corky who runs a very successful bass fishing guide service and promotes the rods to his clients.

After fishing with Corky in one of the Big Show Bass Tournaments, I went down to Lake Placid Marine and bought myself a couple of Reaper rods, and I have to admit, they are really nice rods. (Not sure if one of my sponsors, Denali Rods, would be happy about me saying that).

Bass Assassin, another company Bolema has represented for the last 15 years has always been one of my favorite company’s. I told David I’ve been a walking advertisement for the Bass Assassin Silver Phenom Twitch bait for the last twenty years. I’ve caught over a dozen ten pound bass on that single bait and I have a special rod that I built just for it. Over the years I’ve probably written a dozen articles about the Bass Assassin Silver Phenom.

As we come up on the end of another great crappie season, it’s not too late to try one of Edgar Rods. In fact, if you want to check them out before you buy, give Tangie a call at 937-217-8076 and book a crappie trip. You’ll be impressed.

By: Don Norton

This is an incredible story of one man’s love for fishing at Lake Istokpoga and the challenges he faced growing up in Highlands County Florida.

AMAZON REVIEWS 5 STAR RATING

Kindle Customer - "The Old Man" is a great story of family, friends, and of course fishing. "Bo" is a product of the rural central Florida lake region where he grew up hunting and fishing. This fast-moving story is full of local history, especially Lake Istokpoga and a largemouth bass named "Queenie".

Lexie - This is a great book about one man's life and the challenges we all face. A great tie-in to "Queenie - The Legend of Lake Istakp0oga."

Amazon Customer - An awesome combination of childhood memories, local history, the impact of life's challenges, and the power of caring about others. This book has something for anyone.

Suncoast Boat Show

Partners Again with Mote Marine Lab to Raise Funds April 25-27

internationally and domestically in the destinations where they host each show.

In Sarasota, Informa’s U.S. Boat Show division partners with Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium in a fundraising e#ort and opportunity to put leading-edge ocean conservation science into action today. Donations to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium can be made with ticket purchases for the Suncoast Boat Show.

Tickets for this year’s Suncoast Boat Show must be purchased in advance via the website https://www.suncoastboatshow.com/en/home.html Tickets are $20 and children ages 15 and under are free. Veterans and active-duty military show proof of military service for a free ticket. !e show opens on Friday, April 25 at 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., continuing Saturday, April 26 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday, April 27, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Marina Jack, #2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota, Florida.

April 25-27, 2025 and presents an extraordinary selection of sport power boats and motor yachts in water and on land along Sarasota’s luxurious

e Suncoast Boat Show is hosted by the U.S. Boat Show division of Informa Markets, the exhibitions organizer that owns and operates the world’s leading international boat and yacht events. Integral to a corporate culture of sustainability, Informa U.S. Boat Shows has donated thousands of dollars to support multiple initiatives advocating for environmental preservation,

Established in 1955 by Dr. Eugenie Clark, Mote Marine Laboratory is a nonpro t organization working to protect and conserve marine resources. With over

On Saturday and Sunday, well known Sportsman Channel host Captain gives each participant a free rod and reel. Captain Dingman is an expert angler other parents how important it is to spend quality time with their own kids. suncoastboatshow.com. Follow as details are updated on facebook.com/ SuncoastBoatShow; Twitter and Instagram: @suncoastboatshow.

APRIL 25-27

By atch Maguire

&CatchRelease THE VIRTUES OF

Fishing has long been a cherished pastime for millions around the world, o#ering a unique blend of relaxation, excitement, and connection to nature. However, with increasing pressure on aquatic ecosystems, ethical anglers are turning to catch and release shing as a means to enjoy the sport while safeguarding sh populations for future generations. !is practice, when done correctly, provides ecological, educational, and recreational bene ts that extend well beyond the individual angler.

One of the most signi cant advantages of catch and release shing is its role in conserving sh populations. Many popular sh species face threats from over shing, habitat loss, and climate change. By releasing sh back into their natural habitats, anglers help maintain healthy population levels, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the sport.

To maximize the survival rate of released sh, it is essential to handle them properly. Techniques such as using barbless hooks, minimizing handling

time, and avoiding contact with the sh’s gills or slime coat are critical. Tools like rubberized landing nets and sh-friendly dehooking devices further reduce stress and injury, allowing the sh to recover and thrive.

Fish play integral roles in aquatic ecosystems, o$en serving as both predators and prey. Removing too many individuals from a population can disrupt these delicate balances, leading to cascading e#ects throughout the ecosystem. Catch and release shing helps mitigate this risk by allowing sh to return to their environment and continue ful lling their ecological roles. Healthy sh populations contribute to water quality, biodiversity, and the overall stability of aquatic habitats.

Catch and release shing also promotes a deeper sense of ethical responsibility and stewardship among anglers. It encourages a shi$ from viewing shing as purely extractive to appreciating it as an opportunity to engage with nature in a more sustainable way. !is perspective aligns with the principles of conservation-minded organizations, inspiring individuals to advocate for clean water, habitat restoration, and responsible shing practices.

Beyond the ecological bene ts, catch and release shing enriches the overall experience for anglers. Knowing that their actions contribute to conservation can provide a sense of ful llment and purpose. Additionally, the challenge of landing a sh, observing its beauty, and releasing it unharmed adds a layer of skill and respect to the sport. Many anglers report that the act of releasing a sh is as rewarding as catching it, if not more so.

Catch and release shing serves as a powerful teaching tool for younger generations. By involving children and new anglers in this practice, seasoned anglers can instill values of conservation and respect for nature. !ese lessons foster a lifelong appreciation for the environment and encourage responsible outdoor recreation.

In an era where human activities increasingly impact natural ecosystems, catch and release shing stands out as a practice that balances enjoyment with responsibility. By embracing this approach, anglers contribute to the preservation of sh populations, the stability of aquatic ecosystems, and the cultivation of ethical outdoor traditions. Whether shing for sport or relaxation, choosing to release your catch ensures that the thrill of the ght, the joy of connection, and the beauty of nature remain accessible for generations to come.

May 9th & 10th, 2025

Online Registration: MothersDayDolphinTournament.com

Captain’s Meeting

Liechty Marine

Friday May 9th - 6pm to 7pm

Lines In: Saturday, May 10 - 7:30am

Lines Out: Saturday, May 10 - 3:30pm

Weigh-In

Curly’s Co ee

Saturday, May 10th - 3:30pm to 6pm

Awards Banquet

Marathon Yacht Club

Saturday, May 10th - 7pm

Sunday Honor

Reeling in Change:CELEBRATING WOMEN ON THE WATER

By A. deGruchy

with lessons about life, responsibility, and the pure joy of shing, as well as expecting the unexpected. Fast forward to today, and I nd myself shing alongside my husband, a charter captain in the Florida Keys.

Fishing here isn’t just a pastime; it’s a way of life. From pulling in powerful Snook to chasing Sail sh on the edge of the reef, every trip o#ers new adventures. My husband and I share a love for shing, and I’ve learned so much about professionalism from watching him do his thing. Whether guiding seasoned anglers or teaching rst-timers, his patience, expertise, and enthusiasm shine. It’s a reminder that professionalism isn’t just about skill, it’s about how you treat people and create unforgettable experiences.

It’s been amazing to see more women embracing shing, from young girls joining family trips to seasoned anglers outpacing the boys on the boat. Even more inspiring is the rise of female captains and mates, rewriting the narrative and proving that grit, determination, and passion know no gender.

Fishing has always been about more than just the catch, it’s about family, adventure, and forging connections, both with the people you’re with and the water itself. Watching women claim their space on the water, competing and winning in major tournaments, and stepping into categories once dominated by men is a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come. Women are now sharing the joy of shing with their partners, landing incredible catches together, and showing that this sport is for everyone. !e waves we’re making are just getting started, and it’s inspiring to see skill and love for the ocean take center stage.

Fishing has long been a tradition passed down through generations, o$en painted as a male-dominated pursuit.

But like the tides, things are changing. Women are stepping aboard boats, rigging lines, and reeling in trophies, proving that the waters are open to everyone. As someone who grew up with a shing rod in hand, I’ve seen this transformation rsthand, and it’s inspiring.

My journey into shing began thanks to my dad. He was the one who introduced me to shing. !ose early days were lled

So here’s to the women who sh, lead, and inspire. May your lines be tight, your horizons wide, and your stories endless.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a rst-time sher, let’s create memories together. Book your trip now at www.beansport shing.com and experience the thrill for yourself!

Be sure to follow Astrid’s adventures on Instagram, @catching_astrid and @bean_sport shing.

By

THE FUTURE OF AUTONOMOUS BOATING

intheRecreationalBoatingandFishingIndustry

The recreational shing industry is on the brink of a technological revolution, with autonomous boating emerging as a transformative force. While self-driving cars have dominated headlines, the development of autonomous boats is quietly reshaping how anglers approach their favorite pastime. !ese advancements promise to enhance safety, e ciency, and accessibility, potentially changing the way people experience shing forever.

One of the most signi cant bene ts of autonomous boating in recreational shing is the ability to optimize navigation. Advanced GPS and AI-driven systems can analyze weather patterns, water conditions, and sh activity to chart the best possible routes. Instead of relying solely on experience or guesswork, anglers could have boats that take them to the most promising shing spots with precision. !is technology reduces the time spent searching for sh and maximizes the chances of a successful outing.

captains license

Bradenton - May 12

Clearwater - Jun 2

Tampa/Brandon - Jun 16

Crystal River - July 7 Palm Bay - July 7

Crystal River - May 10-12

Bradenton - May 24-26

Palm Bay - July 19 – 21

Safety is another critical aspect that autonomous boats could improve. Many shing accidents occur due to human error, whether it’s navigating unfamiliar waters, dealing with sudden weather changes, or simply losing focus. With AI-driven controls, boats could automatically adjust speed, avoid obstacles, and even return to shore if conditions become too dangerous. !is level of automation provides an added layer of security, especially for solo anglers who might face emergencies without immediate help.

Accessibility is another area where autonomous boats could make a profound impact. For many, operating a traditional shing boat requires skill, physical e#ort, and extensive knowledge. !ose with limited mobility or minimal boating experience o$en face challenges when trying to enjoy shing on the water. Autonomous technology could allow more people to participate by simplifying the boating experience. With user-friendly controls or even remote operation via a smartphone app, individuals of all backgrounds and abilities could enjoy shing without the steep learning curve associated with traditional boating.

!e integration of smart shing technology into autonomous boats could further enhance the angling experience. Innovations like underwater imaging, automated bait deployment, and real-time sh tracking are already making their way into modern shing gear. When combined with an autonomous vessel, these tools could provide an unprecedented level of e ciency. Imagine a boat that not only takes you to the ideal shing location but also adjusts its position based on sh movement, current ow, and water depth. Such advancements could make shing more productive and enjoyable than ever before.

Despite the promising future of autonomous boating in recreational shing, challenges remain. !e cost of developing and maintaining this technology is still high, potentially limiting accessibility for the average angler. Regulatory concerns also pose hurdles, as governments and maritime authorities must determine how autonomous boats t within existing laws. Additionally, traditionalists in the shing community may resist the shi$ toward automation, arguing that it takes away the skill and personal connection that make shing special.

As technology continues to evolve, autonomous boats will likely become more sophisticated, a#ordable, and widely accepted. Just as GPS revolutionized navigation and sh nders improved catch rates, AI-driven boats have the potential to rede ne the recreational shing experience. While the transition may take time, the possibilities are endless, and the future of autonomous boating in shing looks

e Boat Geek

National Pediatric Cancer Foundation

“Fishing

Funds the Cure” Tournaments Raise Awareness

and Funds for Crucial Research

The National Pediatric Cancer Foundation (NPCF) created “Fishing Funds the Cure” to raise awareness and funds for crucial research. Each year, they unite corporate partners, passionate anglers, and dedicated supporters for Fishing Funds the Cure Tournaments through an activity that everyone loves. ese exciting inshore and freshwater shing tournaments are held in beautiful locations like St. Pete Beach and Sarasota, Florida, San Juan, Puerto Rico, and more. Each event, thoughtfully designed to engage supporters, features a kick-o celebration, angler swag bags, an awards dinner and a silent auction, all dedicated to making a meaningful impact.

NPCF organizes these events to blend the universal love for shing with an important cause. eir mission is to conduct research leading to less toxic and more therapeutic treatments for children with cancer, and are committed to making a di erence in a system that o$en neglects our children. Despite their bright futures, only 4% of government funding for cancer research supports pediatric initiatives, highlighting the urgent need for advocacy.

NPCF has made remarkable progress and is recognized as the nation’s leading solution, delivering rapid, innovative, and e%cient science

through a collaborative network of 40 hospitals. Operating independently of pharmaceutical and government funding, with eight institutions noted in the “Top 20” by US News, they have invested over $40 million in translational studies and clinical trials. NPCF currently have 30 studies and 11 active trials:

• A new drug compound – which could be the 11th drug utilized to treat children

• Blood bio-marker study – which could be a prevention indicator for relapse patients

• A rare disease trial addressing “rhabdomyosarcoma”

• Multiple combined immunotherapy trials to include a potential vaccine

• NPCF has also authorized the “ rst-ever” education toolkit – provided to pediatric cancer families

• ey are also developing treatment guidelines for relapse patients

If shing is your passion, NPCF invites you to channel that enthusiasm toward a worthy cause. Join them at one of their tournaments, organize your own fundraising event, or take on their “43 Challenge” to honor the 43 children diagnosed

with cancer every day. You can easily start by using NPCF’s online fundraising tool, challenging 43 friends to sh, and encouraging them to donate $43.

e National Pediatric Cancer Foundation is proud to be a top-rated charity, with 89% of every dollar donated directly supporting research. To learn more, visit NationalPCF.org.

THE SABIKI: MVP OF THE TACKLE BOX

The month of April is when the real change comes around. For a number of reasons, April can be a game changer. Just for starters, we have made it out of the month of March and the “Gales of March.” !e temperatures will rise, the daylight hours will be longer, and the urge to spawn will get stronger for a lot of species.

!e pelagics will be on the march up the coast headed north, and I have taken a much di erent approach to shing in general, but especially for the pelagics. Sure, we may troll for a short period in the morning to mark some bait and/or productive bottom holding sh like African pompano, big snapper and grouper, but trolling will quickly stop and dri$ing and/ or %ying the kite will begin as the sun rises in the sky. As the title of the article suggests, we have either stopped on the way out or will start to work with the Sabiki right away.

!is is the key: when you have the live bait, you get the bites. Don’t hesitate to bring bait from the dock like pin sh, menhaden, etc. to use as light-line kite bait or bottom bait. Sometimes it’s just easier to pull up beside the bait barge and exchange some green for sardines, cigar minnows, goggle eyes, etc., so you can just get on with getting to where

Tim Barefoot

you’re going and start shing right o the bat. When you nd a good mark of bait, and hopefully bottom structure, the stage is set. Put the kite %oats, tackle or freelines out and start sending the jigs to the mid or lower water

column, and even to the bottom. Of course, I like a natural looking squid jig you can cast to breaking sh that’s heavy enough to sh in the mid to lower water column or a few hundred feet deep when needed on the bottom. the

entire time you were harvesting sh on the jig pay attention to the free line or %oat baits and keep some chum going if possible. !is is a great way to bring the sh to you. !ey will de nitely come to the chum.

As always, I would pay attention to the amount of noise you make. Don’t let cooler lids slam down or hard objects hit the deck; this will send a soundwave hundreds of yards away from the boat telling the sh something isn’t right. If you’re dri$ing quietly with a chum slick out and beautiful live baits, you have a recipe for success!

!is is a great time of year to catch that African pompano of a lifetime in 150- to 250foot range as they are ready to break up into smaller schools for spawning. Again, I like a squid-type jig because it is the primary food source for the African pompano. It is the bulk of their diet according to the experts. And it’s not just African pompano; everything out there, without exception, eats a squid. !is is a great way to catch big snappers as well. Pull up to where the marks are, make a dri$ and repeat as o$en as needed. A trolling motor upfront can slow the dri$ nicely, keeping your boat forward in the wind with the kite bait or %oat, and baits behind the boat very manageable.

And be sure to keep an eye on the recorder to know where to keep the jig in front of sh.

For more info on the squid jig and dri ing, check out Tim Barefoot’s YouTube channel and website, barefootcatsandtackle.com.

1920s Style for a 1920s Price

It was a warm summer afternoon and my wife and I were mingling with the best of them. The occasion was a 1920s-themed party, and everyone was dressed to the nines. Parked on the manse’s circular driveway was a beautiful classic convertible. It was here that I got the idea for our new 1920s Retrograde Watch.

Never ones to miss an opportunity, we carefully steadied our glasses of bubbly and climbed into the car’s long front seat. Among the many opulent features on display was a series of dashboard dials that accentuated the car’s lavish aura. One of those dials inspired our 1920s Retrograde Watch, a genuinely unique timepiece that marries timeless style with modern technology.

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By Don Norton

FISHING THE BLUEGILL CAPITAL OF THE WORLD

Most anglers think of Lake Okeechobee, Florida, and many other great shing lakes as a destination for largemouth bass. And they truly are. But for those in the know, “Lake O” boasts some of the greatest bluegill shing you’ll nd anywhere in the country.

!is is the time of the year—April and May—that bluegill anglers look forward to all year long. !is is when the feisty, hard- ghting pan sh begin their annual spawn. !eir popularity is unmatched with young and experienced anglers looking to test their light line and tackle.

While bluegill is a single species (Lepomis macrochirus), it is sometimes categorized into three subspecies: the northern bluegill, the coppernose

bluegill, and the southwestern bluegill.

To add to the confusion, redear sun sh and bluegills, both belonging to the sun sh family, are easily confused, but can be distinguished by the red or orange coloration around the redear’s operculum (gill %ap), while bluegills have a dark blue to black operculum. Redear sun sh typically grow larger than bluegills, but are o$en caught in the same area, as are coppernose bluegill.

Bluegills are so plentiful that many anglers come to Lake Okeechobee every year just for them and go home with coolers full of their tasty lets. !e daily limit is $y pan sh per angler, and that’s not a hard number to reach when the season is in full swing.

Bluegills can be caught year-round, but when they come into the shallows to spawn, they become a much easier target. Many anglers will test their skills with a %yrod and small popper, while others will use live bait, light line, and tackle—and even bamboo cane poles!

On average, bluegill typically range from six to eight inches in length, although some can grow up to 10 to 15 inches. Nine inches is considered a decent keeper in the “Big O.”

To rig for bluegill, use a small hook (size 8-10) with a light line, a small split shot a few inches above the hook, and a bobber set to suspend your bait near the bottom; commonly used live baits include small worms, waxworms, or crickets, and you can also try small jigs or tiny so$ plastic baits depending on the situation and water depth.

When it comes to the time of day that produces the best bluegill shing, many anglers recommend early evening. As the sun begins to set, waters tend to calm down and %ying insects quickly become a big part of the menu.

But during the spawn, bluegills can be caught all day long.

Finding the beds is relatively easy. Just look in shallow water, 5-foot deep or less for small circular divots in the sandy bottom. !ese “beds” will o$en be close together and will sometimes number in the hundreds.

!e world record bluegill—a sh weighing 4 pounds, 12 ounces— was caught in 1950 in Ketona Lake, Alabama with a cane pole and common worms.

Don Norton is Co-Publisher of Coastal Angler Magazine’s Okeechobee edition. Contact him at (863) 273-4998 or don@theanglermagazine.com.

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OTIPS FROM A PRO FROG FISHING FOR SPRINGTIME GIANTS

TYLER WOOLCOTT

ne of my all time favorite times of year to fish with one of the most fun ways to catch a bass. The spawn and post spawn feed is here for most of us in the south and it won’t be long for many others in the other parts of the country. There is a plethora of ways to catch these bass, but my all time favorite for getting bit and drawing in a big one is a hollow body popping frog.

A popping frog can be used as an incredible search bait, duplicating many different baitfish depending on where you throw it and what color you tie on. There are many different options out there, but I try to duplicate the baitfish forage in the particular lake I am fishing on. Sometimes I will stick to a frog that may imitate a bluegill, and sometimes I throw a color that would imitate a shad. Finding a frog that pops well, has good colors, and a big hook is a few things that need to check the boxes for me. The Gambler popping frog is good and so is the Spro.

When I throw a frog as a search bait, I like to work it faster than most. Cover as much water as possible until you put a pattern together on what exactly the fish are focusing on. That’s the magic of a frog; you can literally throw it around everything! Docks, lay downs, grass and down banks are just a few of the targets I would look for. Once you locate a group of fish or find that right area that they are using you can slow down and pick them off a little slower. I have noticed sometimes there isn’t a “too fast” while working a popping frog.

A couple things that I look for this time of year are areas with active fish spawning, fry guarding bass, and also fish roaming the banks feeding on bluegill. This is something that is very predictable and an awesome way to catch big ones when you get around it. Typically, if you know of a few areas that the fish had previously spawned, these patterns will be occurring in the same areas. I throw a bluegill pattern popping frog because the bluegill will typically be a fish that chase their fry and a fish that drives them crazy this time of year.

Another pattern that you might want to keep your eyes out for is a shad spawn. This usually occurs in the mornings and in the evenings and can be a way to catch a bunch of fish in a hurry. We typically look for birds feeding on banks while running down the lake; you find the birds, you find the bait! A white popping frog or a baitfish color is typically my choice in this situation as a lot of times these fish are so keyed in on the baitfish that you’ll want to match the hatch.

A popping frog can work all year long, but this time of year I think it excels the greatest. It’s an incredible search bait that really drives these fish crazy, and who doesn’t like catching fish on a topwater with heavy line and a heavy rod? Grab a popping frog and go catch some big bass! Frog Fishing Gear: Typically when throwing a popping frog you will be around some heavy cover and need to have some big hooks to get through the fish’s mouth. This calls for a heavy rod, some big line and a fast-geared reel. I like to throw a 13 Fishing 7’4H Myth rod paired with a Concept A 8.3 reel spooled up with Sufix 832 50 lb. braid. This setup will allow you to get the fish out of the heavy cover and into the boat.

Tyler Woolcott is a professional tournament angler and guide. Check out his website at www.tylerwoolcottfishing.com.

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