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SHORT LINES

By Capt. Quinlyn Haddon

LEAD TO

MAHI T

he transition into the summer months brings calmer days more viable for offshore fishing. This is the season when waterways become flooded with snowbirds and weekend warriors, although current fuel prices may keep the pressure off those hot offshore numbers. With mahi season in full swing in the Atlantic, scouting the ocean for signs of life offshore is easily most exciting this time of year. Trolling for mahi near weedlines, diving birds and floating debris is extremely productive. These fish will eat just about anything they see, so much so that I wouldn’t be surprised if you could get a hookup on a banana peel. A trolling spread for mahi doesn’t have to be elaborate. Four lines or less will get the job done. Their penchant for jumping and swimming zigzags on the surface makes tangles in the spread an unfortunate reality. Lines can be kept short, as mahi will eat near a moving boat. While fishing in heavier weeds, shorter lines allow lures to skip more to kick off grass. Lures that don’t like to rid themselves of grass can alternatively be more easily observed and manually cleared with this method. Keeping the lines short also increases the chances of a hooked fish bringing the school of mahi-mahi with them to the boat. The farther back the lines are when a mahi is hooked, the more

6 NATIONAL

JUNE 2022

time the rest of the school has to lose interest in following their buddy. Once a hooked mahi is boatside, leave them in the water as a swimming, codependent chumbag. The rest of the school often follows them, giving you a chance to hook up to more. Have something on your boat to cast out in this situation. Nearly anything will do when the school is in a frenzy. Jigs, lures, cut bait, live bait, possibly banana peels. Sometimes mahi will turn their nose up at certain baits, but the key can be entirely within the presentation. They usually prefer a bait that is teasing them and just almost out of reach. Alternate between letting the bait fall and twitching it away from them. At times, you might get ready to leave a closed-mouth school only to finally have your bait crushed as you quickly reel in the pitch bait. If this is the case, they might just be in a mood to chase something moving more quickly, and getting back on the troll may be a better idea. Diving frigates and floating debris attract more than just mahi-mahi, and there are epic sightings to be had in the open water, everywhere in between.

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From marlin to whale sharks, calm summer days offshore are as good as it gets. Calmer and sunnier days provide above average visibility, making once in a lifetime encounters harder to miss. Keep your eyes (and bananas) peeled. Capt. Quinlyn Haddon fishes for Blue Magic Charters out of Marathon in the Florida Keys. Call (504) 920-6342.

LESS IS MORE WHEN RIGGING THE BOAT

Tim Barefoot

n a time when we are in full-throated offshore (and inshore) fishing, I’d like to address the meaning of the title of this article. We all want to put gadgets on the boat to make it more efficient and comfortable. What I’m getting ready to say may offend some folks, but the ones who actually fish for results—rather than to look good or appease mom and the kids—will get it. Less is more means the more open deck space I have, the better the dance floor is when the action starts. Period. I want a clean deck, free of “toe breakers” and stumbling blocks commonly referred to as seats and coolers I have to squeeze by. When there’s a fish ripping off drag and changing directions, I want open lanes to move up to the front of the boat or around back. You see, I’ve reached a point in life that I’m going to catch the fish I want to catch, the way I want to catch them. I troll some, but it’s early in the day to locate stacks of bait and fish. When the sun comes up to the 10 or 11 o’clock position, I start posting up with the Rhodan or drifting with a kite or float baits out. I keep a bait near the bottom and baits in

the middle water column if they are marking on the recorder or when we are getting bites on the deeper baits. What we do mid-morning is a result of how hard the current is running, the wind direction and speed or a combination of these things. If I could recommend one thing to make your boat rigging most complete, it would be a Rhodan or some other trolling motor that will keep you in place, or slow your drift with the kite directly out behind you, like you are trolling with the kite out. This will allow you to fish the lower levels of the water column for the wahoo bite in the middle of the day with lighter tackle and lighter weight jigs, and also drop a bait in front of Mr. Grouper while on the drift. Keep an eye on the recorder as you are making these long drifts, and mark the areas of bait, fish and bites so you can run back up and make the same drift again. I said all that to say this: Who says you have to use a ballyhoo trolled at 6 or 8 knots to catch fish? Slow it down to a drift or post up on a mark and catch the pelagic and bottom fish while flying the kite or with float baits. When you’ve got all that going on, excess comforts or gadgetry sometimes impede your fishing rather than making it easier. Stay tuned to upcoming videos illustrating this style fishing, but remember to keep the deck clean. Less is more. See more from Tim Barefoot at barefootcatsandtackle.com.

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ROMAN GLADIATORS FROZEN IN TIME FOR OVER 1,600 YEARS

Found: 1,600-Year-Old Roman Gladiator Coins Hold the Glory of Rome In the Palm of Your Hand

hen your famous father appoints you Caesar at age 7, you’re stepping into some very big sandals. But when that father is Emperor Constantine the Great, those sandals can be epic! Constantius II, became Caesar at 7, and a Roman Emperor at age 20. Today, he is remembered for helping continue his father’s work of bringing Christianity to the Roman Empire, as well as for his valiant leadership in battle. But for many collectors, his strongest legacy is having created one of the most fascinating and unique bronze coins in the history of the Roman Empire: the “Gladiator’s Paycheck”.

the Gladiators Paycheck

Roman bronze coins were the “silver dollars” of their day. They were the coins used for daily purchases, as well as for the payment of wages. Elite Roman Gladiators—paid to do battle before cheering crowds in the Colosseum—often received their monthly ‘paycheck’ in the form of Roman bronze coins. But this particular Roman bronze has a gladiator pedigree like no other! Minted between 348 to 361 AD, the Emperor’s portrait appears on one side of this coin. The other side depicts a literal clash of the gladiators. One warrior raises his spear menacingly at a second warrior on horseback. Frozen in bronze for over 1,600 years, the drama of this moment can still be felt when you hold the coin. Surrounding this dramatic scene is a Latin inscription—a phrase you would never expect in a million years!

Happy Days are Here Again The Latin inscription surrounding the gladiators reads: “Happy Days are Here Again” (Fel Temp Reparatio). You see, at the time these coins were designed,

the Emperor had just won several important military battles against the foes of Rome. At the same time, Romans were preparing to celebrate the 1100th anniversary of the founding of Rome. To mark these momentous occasions, this new motto was added and the joyful inscription makes complete sense.

A Miracle of Survival for 1,600 Years

For more than sixteen centuries, these stunning coins have survived the rise and fall of empires, earthquakes, floods and two world wars. The relatively few Roman bronze coins that have survived to this day were often part of buried treasure hoards, hidden away centuries ago until rediscovered and brought to light. These authentic Roman coins can be found in major museums around the world. But today, thanks to GovMint. com, you can find them a little closer to home: your home! Claim your very own genuine Roman Gladiator Bronze Coin for less than $40 (plus s/h). Each coin is protected in a clear acrylic holder for preservation and display. A Certificate of Authenticity accompanies your coin. Unfortunately, quantities are extremely limited. Less than 2,000 coins are currently available. Demand is certain to be overwhelming so call now for your best chance at obtaining this authentic piece of the Roman Empire.

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S I T U AT I O N By Gary Turner

hether it’s a mess of channel catfish for supper or trophy blue cats, I love catfishing! From Texas to Virgina and Nebraska to Florida, I have caught catfish all over the country. Some of my favorite locations are the Santee Cooper reservoirs in South Carolina and the mighty Tennessee River in the stretch from Tennessee into Alabama. Here’s some information on how I catch them in lakes and rivers. These fishing styles will work for catfish all over the country.

ON THE LAKE

I use Abu Garcia 7000 reels with an egg sinker, swivel and 6/0 to 8/0 circle hook. If you are looking for smaller fish, downsize your hooks and baits. Bait can be fresh cut bream, shad, hotdogs, nightcrawlers or even chicken breast chunks. All of these work. On Moultrie, you can anchor up and wait, but usually you can cover more area drifting. Set your rods all on one side of the boat and let them drag along beside or behind the boat. If there is no wind, you might need to troll. If there’s lots of wind, you might need to drop drift socks or a bucket to slow your drift. For this setup, you can use the same reels and baits, but you will need to change your terminal tackle. Use a three-way swivel to attach a slinky, Lindy weight to the bottom eye on 6- to 12-inch piece of 10- to 20-pound leader. You want your weight line to be lighter than your main so if the weight snags you don’t lose your whole rig. On the back eye, use 24 to 36 inches of heavier leader to your hook. Some people also put a small cork a few inches in front of the hook to keep the bait just off the bottom.

Santee Cooper is one of my favorite destinations for big catfish and smaller eaters, too. It’s actually two lakes, Lake Marion, the upper lake, and Moultrie, the lower lake. These lakes both have giant flatheads, huge blues and eating-sized channels. When fishing Lake Marion, I like to anchor up, cast out a bunch of baits and wait. If no bites in 30 minutes, I change locations and try again. There ON THE RIVER are flats and standing timber, and you just keep When fishing the Tennessee River from moving until you find feeding fish. Sometimes you Lake Chickamauga in Tennessee to Alabama’s mark lots of fish that aren’t feeding. Lake Pickwick, I usually go much heavier on

equipment. I go with Penn Fathoms on Big Cat Fever Rods with 80-pound braid main and 100-pound leaders, sinker slides for bigger weights, and 8/0 to 10/0 hooks, depending on how big the baits are. Sometimes a double-hook rig improves your odds. Skipjack, fresh or frozen, is the preferred bait, with bream and shad as backups. Don’t be afraid to use giant baits in big water. There are some giant fish down there! In rivers, where’s there’s a good current, you can bottom bump. This technique is also popular on the Mississippi River. You slow the boat so the current carries your lines downstream. Use just enough weight so your baits walk and bounce along the bottom. This is very productive and allows you to cover lots of water. Another thing we do sometimes where the river is fairly flat and slow is to slow drift with all the rods and lines straight down and the hooks just off the bottom. If you are marking good fish, make several passes over them. Sometimes this will fire them up. I hope this helps you catch more and bigger catfish next time you go. Please remember, if you are not going to eat it, don’t kill it. Gary Turner is a regular contributor to Coastal Angler and The Angler magazines. Contact him at gary@purgeright.com.

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HUNTING

GIANT PERMIT IN THE SURF

By Emily Rose Hanzlik

reshwater or salt, I enjoy fishing for anything that swims. Specifically targeting the largest fish of a species is what I enjoy most. Whether it’s grass carp or jack crevalle, I actively seek out IGFA records to try and break. Right now, permit is on my hit list. Permit inhabit the western Atlantic from Massachusetts to southeastern

Brazil. They occur throughout the West Indies and the Gulf of Mexico, and less-frequently in Bermuda. The species is most abundant in southern Florida, where they can primarily be found inshore around bridges, inlets, on flats, deep cuts, channels and holes adjacent to these areas. They will, however, also frequent offshore wrecks, oil platforms and artificial reefs. Due to its striking similarity to the Florida pompano, in its juvenile stage, many anglers often misidentify young permit. You can distinguish the two from each other by the color of their chins, fins or bellies. Pompano will have a more yellow coloring, where a permit will be more orange in color. Permit and pompano are both members of the jack family, Carangidae, which includes about 140 species worldwide. Permit primarily feed on crustaceans and mollusks, which they crush between a pharyngeal bony plate at the back of their mouth and granular teeth on their tongue. Most fishing guides prefer to use blue crabs in the 2- to 3-inch range. Since I am specifically targeting large fish, I prefer to use fullgrown speckled crabs, which can range anywhere from 4 to 6 inches. The smallest permit I’ve caught on these big baits weighed right at the 20-pound mark. The All-Tackle IGFA World Record permit weighed in at an amazing 60 pounds and was caught out of Brazil in 2002. When fishing for permit from the beach, it’s best to know your surroundings. I always fish the holes adjacent to rip currents. To find these, you first need to locate the sandbars, which are the “whitewater areas” in the surf where the waves are breaking the most. Next, you need to find a spot along the sandbar where the wave action seems to settle. That is the cut. It is a break in the sandbar where water is forced out on a falling tide. The water rushing out causes a rip current, which is most prevalent on both sides of the cut. Finally, the areas immediately to the left and right of the rip current and just behind the sandbars are where the holes are usually located. These features can change location depending on the strength of the tide. Permit can be found in these holes at any time. However, late spring through early fall is the best season to target large permit from the beach.

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Emily Rose Hanzlik holds 45 IGFA world records in various women’s categories. She hails from West Palm Beach, where she has a part-time bowfin guide service as well as fishing classes for Jr. Anglers. Find her on Social Media @emilyhanzlikoutdoors.

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Tips for Catching Your “PB” This Summer By CAM Staff

ith texting and social media pushing the English language in an inexorable backward slide toward a form of communication that resembles hieroglyphs of the ancients, the abbreviation “PB” has become common in angler jargon. In case you didn’t already know, PB is short for personal best. You’ll often see it used on online forums and social media alongside photos of enthusiastic anglers holding large bass. “PB! Texas-rigged Ol’ Monster. 8-2,” such a post might read. Translated, the author of the post is indicating Lewis Smelcer caught this monster they caught the largest bass 14-pound, 4-ounce largemouth at they’ve ever caught on a large Porter Lake on March 5. plastic worm. It weighed FWC TROPHY CATCH PHOTO. 8-pounds, 2-ounces. If you bass fish, catching a 10-pound-plus fish is kind of the ultimate goal. However, the PB concept allows for legitimate celebration for the somewhat lesser achievement of catching a very nice fish that might not weigh 10 pounds. On the other hand, true lunker hunters might have surpassed the 10-pound mark many times, and PB provides another goal to strive for. Whichever camp you fall in, here are some tips that might help you make a PB post this summer: • Fish Where Your PB Lives. Do your research and find out where anglers are catching big fish. Florida’s TrophyCatch program has an online database where anglers report catching bass heavier than 8 pounds. Information provided includes date, size and location of the catch. All sorts of trends can be mined from the site’s searchable data. Find a trophy bass factory near you and fish it. • Fish For One Bite. When you specifically target big fish, sometimes you won’t catch anything else... or anything at all. The lures, tactics and locations for large bass are not the same for more aggressive smaller bass. Prepare to fish hard and fish patiently for just a few bites. Be ready to set the hook when it happens. • Fish The Thick Stuff. In summer, fish have settled into predictable patterns. The big fish are going to be holed up in the thickest cover they can find, whether that’s matted grass or a logjam. If you have to worry about how you’re going to get a fish out of a hole, that’s where your lure needs to be. • Fish Large Lures. Large bass have life figured out. They are lazy and are not likely to be out in open water chasing 2-inch shad around. They put on all that weight by expending as little energy as possible while consuming as many calories as possible. They eat the large, infrequent meals that show up right in front of them. Big 6-inch swimbaits, large jigs or huge plastic worms, if it looks like a slow-moving mouthful a large bass is more likely to eat it. It’s up to you to fish methodically and put your lure right in a fish’s face. For more bass fishing tips, visit coastalanglermag.com.

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Gulf Anglers Offered Free Release Gear R eturn ’Em Right, a program that aims to reduce catch-and-release mortality for Gulf of Mexico fish suffering from barotrauma, has launched a new program for anglers throughout the Gulf of Mexico. By participating in a short online review of best practices, anglers can receive free release gear valued at $100 to help reef fish survive release. Each year, more than 10 million federally managed reef fish are released, and at least one million of those will die soon after being released. A main reason is barotrauma, a pressure-related injury fish experience when reeled up from depth. Anglers may observe barotrauma when they release a fish, only to see it float away on the surface. For every one percent of landed and released fish anglers save through learning and using best release practices, over 100,000 reef fish could survive to grow, possibly spawn and be caught again. “I have enjoyed teaching my daughter to fish and know one way to keep the fisheries healthy for her generation is to release them properly. I hope Gulf anglers take advantage of Return ’Em Right. Free gear and training to benefit the fishery is a win-win,” said JD Dugas, a recreational angler from Louisiana.

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JUNE 2022

Return ’Em Right promotes best release practices, with an emphasis on proper use of descending devices, which research shows can improve long-term survival of reef fish by up to three times. Descending devices are weighted devices that help fish overcome buoyancy and injury by releasing them at depth. These devices come in a variety of forms FLORIDA SEA GRANT PHOTO including weighted inverted hooks, lip clamp devices and weighted crates and boxes. to be a resource to a community committed “I used descending devices for the first time to preserving the future of the sport,” said Nick recently, and I’ve seen them work firsthand. Not a Haddad, Fisheries Communications Manager, single fish floated back up the entire day offshore Return ’Em Right. Return ’Em Right is a program led by fishing,” said Alexandra Spring, three-time IGFA Florida Sea Grant, University of Florida, Gulf World Record Holder. Gulf of Mexico reef fish anglers 18 years and States Marine Fisheries Commission, NOAA older are now eligible to visit the Return ’Em Right and a coalition of anglers, industry groups, website, review best release practices and receive state agencies, universities, government and a package of release gear to use on the water. The non-government organizations committed to educational review is available to all individuals maintaining healthy fish stocks and fishing access who are interested in learning best practices in the Gulf of Mexico. The project was selected by when encountering barotrauma, regardless of age, the Deepwater Horizon Open Ocean Trustee’s as part of a 2019 Restoration Plan. location or role in the fishery. “Return ’Em Right welcomes all anglers to To participate in the Return ’Em Right program participate in the program and we are excited and get your free gear, go to returnemright.org.

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Anglers Invited to Fall ‘Hook, Line & Sinker’ for ARC KDW Fishing Tourney

nglers of all ages are invited to fish the ARC’s eighth annual KDW Offshore Fishing Tournament on Sat., June 18, hosted at Pirate’s Cove Resort and Marina in Stuart. Enjoy some fun in the sun and on the water in support of more than 600 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Try your hand at reeling in kingfish, dolphin, wahoo, grouper and snapper. Whatever floats your boat! Register by June 3 and team entry fees are $200, and $250 after June 3. Tournament organizers want to lure you in with a bucket full of goodies and four tickets to a gourmet barbeque dinner Saturday evening at the awards ceremony. Additional anglers can join in the fun for $50 each and family/friends are welcome to purchase additional awards dinner tickets for only $25 each. If you want to play and stay,

Advocates for the Rights of the Challenged

Steve Hill and Ronnie Kirchman of Team Real Tradition.

event sponsor Pirate’s Cove Resort and Marina is offering a discounted room rate of $129 per night to registered participants if booked by June 10 (taxes/fees not included). No boat? No problem! Limited fishing spots will be available on Safari 1 Deep Sea Fishing for only $100 per angler including rod, reel, bait, tackle, and 1 dinner ticket for

SEE KDW........................................PAGE 9

PHOTOS CREDIT: ARC.

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TREASURE COAST 1

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ffective July 1, 2022, the following regulations go into effect for cobia in state waters: • Increasing the minimum size limit from 33 inches to 36 inches fork length for all state waters. • Reducing the commercial bag limit from two to one fish per harvester per day for Atlantic state waters. • Reducing the recreational and commercial vessel limit from six to two fish per vessel per day for Atlantic state waters.

Blueline Tilefish Recreational Season Modified At its May meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved a temporary modification to the 2022 recreational blueline tilefish season in Atlantic state waters. The 2022 recreational season for blueline tilefish will be open May 1 - July 25 in state waters, closing July 26. Typically, the blueline tilefish season is open May 1 - Aug. 31 in Atlantic state and federal waters. However, NOAA Fisheries projects that the recreational catch limit will be met by July 26 and is closing the fishery to prevent overfishing from occurring. Modifications to the recreational season in state waters is consistent with the recent changes in federal waters.

CLOSURES: Snook: Atlantic, June 1-Aug. 31

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Reel In and Recycle.

he Monofilament Recovery and Recycling Program (MRRP) is an innovative statewide project dedicated to reducing the environmental damage caused by discarded fishing line. MRRP aims to educate the public on the problems caused by monofilament line left in the environment, encourage recycling through a network of line recycling bins and drop-off locations, and help citizens host volunteer monofilament line cleanup events. The program depends on statewide partnerships as the key to its success.

How is monofilament recycled?

The monofilament is collected from recycling bins and cleaned of hooks, leaders, weights, and trash by volunteers. It is then shipped to the Berkley Pure Fishing company in Iowa. Berkley melts the line down into raw plastic pellets that can be made into other plastic products including tackle boxes,

TREASURE COAST

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spools for line, fish habitats, and toys. It is not made into more monofilament line.

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How do I recycle my monofilament?

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Capt. Gus Brugger Capt. Rocky Carbia Michael Conner Capt. Jonathan Earhart Capt. Scott Fawcett Capt. Cole Hazellief Capt. Colton Hester Ed Killer Capt. Michael Mauri Brian Nelli Jim Oppenborn Capt. Nate Shellen Capt. Adam White Capt. Terry Wildey Steve Wood

You can mail it directly to Berkley, deposit it in special cardboard recycling boxes which can be found in some tackle shops, or deposit it in an outdoor monofilament recycling container. If you live in Florida, don’t have a bin and want to install one, contact us. If you would like an indoor cardboard recycling container, they are available at no cost from Pure Fishing by emailing Lisa Blume at lgblume@ purefishing.com.

Can all fishing line be recycled?

No, only fishing line that is a single filament, nylon product may be recycled (such as monofilament and fluorocarbon). Fishing line

SEE RECYCLE........................... PAGE 22

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TREASURE COAST 3

FISHING FORECASTS

MARTIN COUNTY OFFSHORE

Capt. Scott Fawcett Off the Chain Fishing Charters (772) 285-1055 fishscottyf@bellsouth.net offthechainfishing.com

s temperatures start to increase and the winds turn south, expect another great June off the Treasure Coast. Although numbers are definitely down, the kickoff to the mahi season did not disappoint. Big fish started showing up right on time in May and should continue through June. We had exceptional sailfishing, blackfin tuna, and king mackerel action leading up to this month as well. As long as the water temperature doesn’t heat up too fast, they should stick around through the summer. While I would still recommend trolling for big dolphin, now is a great time to fire up the kites with a good spread of live baits again. Contact Captain Brian at Stuart Live Bait to reserve your goggle eyes, thread fins, and pilchards. I’ve switched over to

using Tigress kites recently and I’m extremely pleased with the spread I can achieve along with how steady they fly and how little wind it takes to keep them up. For the summer months as the water cleans up and slicks out, I recommend downsizing in line and leader size—15-to-20 line with a 50-pound leader and a 6/0 circle hook should do the job. This is a good time to fish a down bait, not only for kingfish, wahoo and cobia but also big dolphin and sails along the thermocline. I recommend the Cannon 10 TS. It’s fully automated, has bottom tracking mode, and a cycling mode which triggers lazy fish into eating. It can also be linked to your Humminbird Sonar or even through your phone via Bluetooth which I use a lot when I’m pulling teasers from them and I’m in the tower. June is also a great month to search the beach for snook, jacks, tarpon, permit, cobia and even

REDUCE THE RISK

PHOTOS CREDIT: Capt. Scott Fawcett.

A fun threequarter day fishing with three generations of the Ring family. Grouper, snapper, mahi, and sails.

sailfish. When the bait is on the beach, all these predators will make their way within feet of the sandy Treasure Coast shores. Blackfin Rods makes an excellent Carbon-E spinning rod for flipping live baits to these fish. I use

the 7-footer. It casts far, is extremely sensitive and has a ton of backbone. I even use them a little bit while I’m bottom fishing. Grouper season is open and the bottom is pretty good this time of year. Check out Capt. Rocky’s report for the digs on that stuff. Whatever style of fishing you decide to do this June, I hope your next trip is Off The Chain. Please give me a call to book your next fishing adventure. Capt. Scott (772) 2851055.

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Capt. Jonathan Earhart Chaos Fishing Charters (772) 341 – 2274 www.chaosfishigcharters.com jon@chaosfishigncharters.com

ummer fishing patterns are starting to kick into full effect this month. Snook season is now closed but catch and release action will be red hot! Big breeder snook will start to school up around our St. Lucie Inlet. I recommend using heavy tackle with larger leaders, this will enable quick catches and safe releases so that these fish can continue to breed. Large live bait fish such as threadfins, pinfish, croakers, grunts, and pilchards will get the bites. Tarpon fishing is also picking up along deep-water channel edges in the river. Anchor up and soak live or dead large mullet for extra-large tarpon. I suggest using 60-to-100

pound leaders with 6/0-9/0 2x circle hooks. This will increase your odds of landing these larger fish boat side. Expect a few sharks, large jacks, and the occasional 40-inch snook as bycatch when targeting tarpon this way with a large mullet as bait. Running the beach nearshore this month can be very productive for sight fishing. Expect to find large schools of bait inside 40 feet of water near any local beach. Fishing the outskirts of these bait schools can produce a variety of predators. Tarpon, snook, cobia, jacks, kingfish, bonito, snapper, African pompano, and the occasional sailfish will be lingering along the outskirts of these baitfish schools. Slow trolling live baits around these schools will produce bites. Lip hooking your baits will provide a natural presentation at slow trolling speeds. I also suggest having a cobia jig tied on a large spinner ready to cast at any incoming cobia and/or large jack crevalles while slow trolling baits along the beaches around these bait schools. Nearshore reefs and wrecks will hold plenty of goliath grouper

if you’re looking to play tug of war with a sea monster. Very heavy tackle recommended, whole bonitos as your bait will get goliath grouper bites every drop. Remember the goliath grouper is still a protected species. This type of fishing is catch and release only, it is prohibited to remove these fish from the water. If obtaining a picture, you will need to get creative with these gigantic groupers while keeping them in the water. The reefs and wrecks will also hold plenty of snapper, snook, cobia, barracuda, kingfish, sailfish, and even the occasional mahi. Fishing flatlines on the surface will get occasional pelagic opportunities while on anchor bottom fishing for snapper and or goliath groupers. Chicken rigs or long leader rigs will be effective for targeting snapper on local nearshore reefs. Using 40-to-50 pound long leaders (15-to-30-feet in length) with appropriate weight (based on current conditions) attached to a swivel and then the leader with a 4/0-6/0 circle hook with a live or dead sardine as bait will get plenty of snapper action this time of year.

MARTIN COUNTY DEEP SEA

Capt. Rocky Carbia Safari I Deep Sea Fishing Pirates Cove Resort and Marina 4307 SE Bayview St. Port Salerno Reservations: (772) 334-4411 Safari-1.com

ummer’s curtain call will rise during the days of June, revealing a bright and warm fishing stage for the near coastal anglers of Martin County. Directors of fishing strategies will be inclined to angle towards the naturally occurring, coral reef line south of the St. Lucie Inlet in depth of 65 to 85 feet of water. This “Southern Reef Line” and “Loran Tower Ledge”, east of Hobe Sound and Tequesta, are home to a rich and diverse population of saltwater fish that inhabit all depths of the water column, over top and around these reefs. These structures are fish magnets that will attract many pelagics like cobia, king mackerel and mahi, just to name a few. Several species of grouper and snapper will reside among these coral ledges. Trophy mutton snapper (of 20-pounds or better) will patrol this southern reef line like saltwater bosses and fade off the main rises of the reef structure into a thin veil of visibility along the outer edges of

Big snapper will be among the main target species aboard the Safari 1, like this large mutton caught by Pat Scalzo. PHOTO CREDIT: Safari 1.

the reef ’s footprint. Jumbo cubera snapper (that can achieve weights over 100 pounds) will cruise the same reef contours, like toothy snapper assassins, capable of devouring large live and dead bait offerings. Catch and release of Jurassic sized goliath grouper (between 200 and 400 pounds) occur frequently during any bottom fishing excursion in this reef area. Consequently, heavy tackle and sports-minded, fit anglers will be necessary to wrangle these salty beasts to the surface. Fishing around the southern reef line offers many fishing opportunities and strategy options for local fishing

Westley Martin caught a large goliath grouper while fishing nearshore using a Penn International with 400-pound leader, 16/0 circle hook, and whole bonito as bait. PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Jonathan Earhart.

crews. Along with the potential to tie into large representatives of many bottom dwelling fish in this zone, captains and crews will be able to target keeper and medium sized bottom fish using lighter tackle and chicken rigs. Mangrove, lane, and vermilion snapper, trigger fish, porgies, and toro fish (aka glass eyed snapper), are all found in large numbers here and can be caught using this technique. They will satisfy the fishing appetites of a wide range of anglers, young and old alike. The fishing theater of June will be filled with a diverse cast of fish actors, that will await the applause of their anglers as they hit fish box ice, along the naturally occurring contour of the southern reef line, east of of Martin County.

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JUNE 2022

TREASURE COAST 5

FISHING FORECASTS

ST. LUCIE COUNTY DEEP SEA

Take those kids fishing! Kids won’t remember their best day of T.V.

Capt. Cole Hazellief Shock Leader Charters (772) 800-5448 www.shockleaderfishing.com

chool’s out, lines in! While the children say goodbye to school for summer break, our favorite fish species will be summer schooling throughout June! So, take a kid fishing! Summertime seas are calm and inviting making it the perfect time to take your favorite junior angler out for a deep-sea adventure. Experience the freedom of the open seas, convey years of fishing tales and wisdom, and reel in the BIG one! First on the list are mutton and gray snappers, which will be fat and hungry for some reel-education before they chill out in the icy fish boxes. Grouper season is in full session, and these grumpy reefbullies are looking for a good fight. The best way to school these brutes is

with a live minnow on a hook! Once the surface temperatures begin to rise, we recommend fishing a bit deeper or look for thermoclines of in the water column. Structures and ledges between 70 to 90 feet of water are good places to drop down. Be prepared to tug against some prehistoric looking groupers, as these bullies easily weigh into the double digits. Beef up your arsenal with higher test line, heavy leader and a rod and reel combo that can reel in a sea monster!

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For the more ambitious fishermen and women, we recommend taking advantage of the nighttime bite. The Shock Leader will be hitting the same honey-holes in 70 to 90 feet, fishing for snapper, grouper with chance encounters of a nocturnal mahi or cobia. Not only is fishing under the stars an amazing experience, but these excursions usually yield phenomenal catches. Before you go, don’t forget to pack your sunshine defenses, and keep an eye out for June’s notorious

15-POINT TRAILER INSPECTION

Grouper season is in full swing and it’s time to score your PB! PHOTOS CREDIT: Shock Leader Charters.

afternoon thunderstorms. Check out our social media posts for the latest catches, and we look forward to seeing you aboard the Shock Leader in June! Tight lines and good vibes!

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ST. LUCIE COUNTY OFFSHORE

Capt. Colton Hester Sonna Girl Fishing Charters (772) 293-5342 colton@sonnagirlfishing.com www.sonnagirlfishing.com

he seas are finally starting to calm down and that means summer fishing is here! This is my favorite time of the year to fish as the weather is better and the fish are plentiful. I put my trolling rods away and enjoy the art of live baiting throughout the summer. Offshore past the 80-foot reef you can find weedlines in the calmer water anywhere from 120 to 1000 feet of water. These weedlines will hold mahi mahi and wahoo. I like to catch live bait in the morning

ST. LUCIE COUNTY INSHORE

Capt. Adam White St. Lucie Flats Fishing Charters (609) 820-6257 www.stlucieflatsfishing.com

ummer has arrived on the Treasure Coast. Expect hot days ahead! It is a time to get out early or late in the day and avoid the afternoon heat. Winds will be calmer and water temperatures will be in the mid-80s to the 90s most days. June is always one of my favorite months to enjoy the fishing in the area. By this time the tarpon should be in all their primary haunts for the summer. Big Mud, the Turning Basin, and out on the beach are all good areas to look for these gladiators. D.O.A. TerrorEyz and Bait Busters are some of the more popular lure choices for tarpon.

772-569-2723 North Location: 1803 90TH AVE VERO BEACH, FL 32966

either pilchards, greenies, or sardines and float these underneath those weedlines. This usually proves effective when targeting those game fish. There is always the possibility of catching a sailfish or two as well. On the 80-foot reef you will find plenty of kingfish and cobia, as well as a stray mahi mahi or two. I use the same technique here as well. I will slow troll live baits on top and usually one or two live baits on a downrigger anywhere from 30to-60 foot down. This allows me to fish all the strike zones of the water column and dial in on where the fish are. Once I figure out what water column they are in I will target that area more throughout the day. Bottom fishing will be in full effect as the nighttime mangrove snapper bite in 60-to-80 foot of water is getting better and better.

The lighter weight and leader you use, the more bites you will get. Look for areas with nice two-tofour foot changes in depth/rocks for the most success as these snapper will be swimming up and down the reef searching for food. In the daytime patience is key. Once the snapper find your baits around their rocks, you will catch them as fast as you put your baits down. There will be plenty of fish to be caught in 30-to-60 foot as well. Look for cobia and kingfish around the artificial reefs and wrecks. I will use live bait around these as well. In the summer it is hard to beat live bait fishing. If you cannot find any live bait, you can also troll Rapala deep diving lures that dive anywhere from 25-to-30 foot. This will prove successful catching kingfish around these reefs. Stay safe and tight lines!

Azir with a nice kingfish caught on a flat line live bait while bottom fishing. PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Colton Hester.

handle them as little as possible. Releasing them without netting or even removing them from the water will help the fish tremendously. On the inside, the deeper water around the bridges and inlet will hold good numbers of fish. On foot, walking the beach is another great way to target summertime snook. A fourinch D.O.A. C.A.L. or a MirrOdine are great lures to use while sight casting to snook that are out on the beach. King mackerel are another target during the summer months. Slow or bump trolling live baits around the bait pods in 30-40 feet of water is a good way to target them. There is no mistaking the blistering runs Nice action these fish are capable of when you shot of a hook up to a smoker king. More tarpon that often than not, these fish are hooked ate a live crab. on the side of the face or in their PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Adam White. body rather than their mouth when Natural baits like mullet, crabs, or Snook are another summertime using stinger rigs. Fight them with ladyfish can get those finicky fish to favorite. Since the season closed the drag looser than normal to avoid eat when the lures aren’t working. on the first of the month, we try to tearing the hook from the fish.

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JUNE 2022

TREASURE COAST 7

morning will provide the best shot at shallow water trout and reds. With open water grass beds still near nonexistent, try to find where the bait fish are and there should be some predators nearby. Top-water plugs are the best way to locate trout and reds on the flats in the early morning. After the sun is up, a D.O.A. jerkbait or suspending plug may draw more strikes. Snook of all sizes will be laid up tight to docks and mangroves getting out of the sun during the day, pitch a D.O.A. shrimp into the cover on stout tackle and hold on.

FISHING FORECASTS

SEBASTIAN INSHORE

Dean Rocco with a whopper Sebastian Inlet redfish he sight cast to with a D.O.A. softshell crab.

Capt. Gus Brugger Pattern Setter Charters (772) 360-6787 www.WelcomeToSebastian.com

he stable weather of the early summer season expands the horizons for small boat anglers. The predictable weather gives small boat and kayak anglers a chance to venture outside the inlet to pursue species that are normally out of their reach, including; king mackerel, bonito, cobia, large migratory tarpon and giant jack crevalle. From the ocean to the backcountry, mornings in June will generally provide great weather conditions to pursue whatever you want to.

SEBASTIAN RIVER – The top of the list in the Sebastian River in early summer is tarpon. There are tarpon throughout the Sebastian River, but the larger fish seem to frequent the entire north fork and the lower south fork after June 1. MirrOlure

NEAR SHORE ATLANTIC –

PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Gus Brugger.

suspending plugs, D.O.A. TerrorEyz jigs, Yo-Zuri 3D minnows and flies are all good artificials for both snook and tarpon. Small to medium sized mullet are the best choice for live bait.

SEBASTIAN INLET – With snook

season closed June 1- Aug. 31, there is no doubt that the snook will be stacked up at Sebastian Inlet all summer. Live bait is the best way to go during the day, with croakers,

pigfish, greenies and shrimp the best bait choices. With fishing pressure low due to the closed snook season, the next three months are a great time to try some new techniques (lighter tackle and lures) and to have some fun catching and releasing fish at Sebastian Inlet. Please handle all oversized and out of season fish with care.

INDIAN RIVER LAGOON – Early

The early summer near-shore fishery gives small boat anglers the opportunity to get into the ocean and catch fish weighing in the double or even triple digits. Large migrating tarpon, smoker kingfish, bonito, barracuda, cobia, dolphin, and even sailfish are possible within a few miles of Sebastian Inlet. Slow trolling live greenies and mullet, trolling plugs and sight fishing to schools of feeding and cruising fish along the beaches can all put a trophy on the end of your line. Look for schools of bait or areas of bottom structure to narrow your search for fish. The weather and the fish are here, get out and enjoy.

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SLBT.com 1/10/2022 10:50:45 AM

:45 AM

SEBASTIAN AREA OFFSHORE

Capt. Terry Wildey Big Easy Fishing Charters (772) 538 - 1072 captwildey@bellsouth.net www.bigeasyfishingcharters.com

une is my favorite month of the year for fishing. The good weather gets us more days offshore, combined with more consistent water quality. Warm clean water equals a more consistent fishing. Remember though, when the water gets warm and clear, fish get picky. Light fluorocarbon leaders and live bait will produce more bites. Fortunately, live bait should be more readily present both inside and outside the inlet. We’ll see good catches of mutton snapper, mangrove snapper and kingfish. Last year we only saw a mild thermocline, but we did have a couple of days fishing the beach reefs, although it passed quickly. Other than that, we should have some good kingfish on the 80-to-90foot reefs, bigger fish will be hitting live bait. Strip baits trolled behind a Seawitch and 3½-inch drone spoon works well also. For those trolling offshore there should be some schooly dolphin some even into the 80- and 90foot reefs. They’re always a nice addition to the box. When your anchored up and a school swims up, this is when it’s good to have a couple light spinners ready with a #4 or #5 Mustad Short Shank with a 30-pound fluorocarbon leader. Have some chopped up pieces of squid ready to throw to keep their interest as well as to stick on the hook to capitalize on the opportunity. Bottom fishing should be good on the reefs in the 80- to 90-foot range. clear water is going to require light leaders and live bait to entice a

KDW.................................. FROM PAGE 1 the awards ceremony. Cash prizes for first, second and third place totaling $8,000 will be awarded to the teams with the heaviest of each species, as well as a cash prize for top Junior Angler, and top Lady Angler. And you’ll want to cast a bid for the silent auction items or reel in a raffle ticket for special prizes. Anyone can shop the auction, even online from home. The ARC, (Advocates for the Rights of the Challenged) is a 501(c) (3) non-for-profit organization

June means it’s mahi mahi time as Kevin Brailo, Justin Dunn and Sam Russell can attest. PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Terry Wildey.

tackle shops, be courteous to your enforcement including our FWC. bite there as well. As always, the ever-growing fellow anglers, one day you might They’re just doing their job. “Fish on, gotta go!” shark problem will be something need their help, be nice to your law to deal with. If there’s any upside to the abundance of sharks, it’s that they’ve had cobia traveling with them. There’s a thin line between fishing heavy enough line to horse the fish in before the sharks eat them yet light enough to get the fish to bite. I’m hoping some group, FRESH SHRIMP, FISH, WORMS, CLAMS, individual or fishing club will put FIDDLER CRABS, SAND FLEAS & MORE together a shark tournament. One tournament of 100 boats would start putting the uneven balance back where it should be. Meat from the shark could be donated to local food banks. Believe me people that are saying this is a sign of a heathy ecosystem do not see what’s really happening out there. As always, support your local

FRESHEST LIVE BAIT IN SEBASTIAN AREA LARGE SELECTION OF FROZEN BAIT

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JUNE 2022

TREASURE COAST 9

KAYAK FISHING FORECAST

Brian Nelli Pushin’ Water Kayak Charters (772) 201-5899 Brian@tckayakfishing.com www.tckayakfishing.com

INSHORE: Snook are on the move

to local inlets and beaches for the summer spawn. Jupiter, Palm Beach and Hillsboro inlets are always my favorites to fish in the kayak. Always be aware of currents and traffic when fishing in and around inlets. Fly a flag and have a sounding device. Live mullet, pilchards fished on the bottom and large D.O.A. TerrorEyz are my favorites. June will also start the rainy season. Fishing the spillways when they are open around heavy rains can produce many snook. Again D.O.A. TerrorEyz is a favorite, but don’t overlook a colorful buck tail.

PHOTOS CREDIT: Brian Nelli.

Jacob with his first sailfish (left) and a solid peacock bass (above).

more days offshore. Blackfin tuna should become more consistent. Five- to ten-pound fish are the norm while vertical jigging off Palm Beach and Broward counties. Using a Catch Fishing Double Trouble jig in 220to-320 feet should find you the bite. OFFSHORE: June will bring more Trolling 20 feet Yo-Zuri Crystal days of calm seas and that means Minnows are also a great way to pick

off a few. Getting out early will be your best bet to get on the kingfish bite. Live goggle eyes and blue runners are always the way to go. Finally don’t forget about the sailfish. Summer is still a great time to land this great fighting fish. Again Live goggle eyes, blue runners and pilchards for the sailfish and mahi.

FRESHWATER: A lot of peacock

bass and largemouth will still be on the beds looking to spawn if they have not already. Look to sight fish the bass along the banks. Throwing a small jig in their bed to annoy them will get them to bite. Clown knifefish should be easy to catch using a live shiner or rattletrap. Target deeper water near grass lines to find the clown bite. Check us out Pushin’ Water Kayak Charters on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube for all the latest adventures my clients and I get into. See you on the water!

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JUNE 2022

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COASTAL ANGLER

AVAILABLE AT

TREASURE COAST JUNE DAY 1W

2TH

4SA

5SU

7TU

9TH

10F

TIME 4:13 AM 10:30 AM 4:22 PM 11:08 PM 4:51 AM 11:09 AM 5:00 PM 11:47 PM 5:30 AM 11:49 AM 5:39 PM 12:28 AM 6:12 AM 12:32 PM 6:21 PM 1:10 AM 6:57 AM 1:19 PM 7:08 PM 1:54 AM 7:47 AM 2:12 PM 8:01 PM 2:41 AM 8:41 AM 3:09 PM 9:00 PM 3:31 AM 9:36 AM 4:10 PM 10:01 PM 4:25 AM 10:30 AM 5:11 PM 11:00 PM 5:20 AM 11:23 AM 6:11 PM 11:56 PM

HEIGHT 0.31 2.16 -0.05 2.34 0.36 2.1 0.03 2.27 0.42 2.04 0.11 2.2 0.46 1.97 0.2 2.14 0.47 1.93 0.28 2.09 0.44 1.92 0.34 2.06 0.37 1.95 0.37 2.06 0.24 2.04 0.35 2.08 0.07 2.18 0.3 2.14 -0.12 2.34 0.21

L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L

11SA 6:16 AM 12:16 PM 7:08 PM 12SU 12:50 AM 7:11 AM 1:08 PM 8:03 PM 13M 1:42 AM 8:06 AM 2:00 PM 8:56 PM 14TU 2:34 AM 9:00 AM 2:53 PM 9:49 PM 15W 3:27 AM 9:55 AM 3:47 PM 10:41 PM 16TH 4:21 AM 10:50 AM 4:42 PM 11:33 PM 17F 5:16 AM 11:45 AM 5:38 PM 18SA 12:26 AM 6:14 AM 12:43 PM 6:37 PM 19SU 1:19 AM 7:14 AM 1:42 PM 7:38 PM 20M 2:12 AM 8:15 AM 2:42 PM 8:40 PM 21TU 3:07 AM 9:14 AM 3:44 PM 9:40 PM

2.22 -0.32 2.51 0.12 2.33 -0.49 2.66 0.03 2.43 -0.62 2.76 -0.04 2.52 -0.68 2.82 -0.09 2.58 -0.68 2.82 -0.1 2.59 -0.6 2.78 -0.1 2.55 -0.47 2.69 -0.08 2.48 -0.3 2.58 -0.06 2.4 -0.12 2.46 -0.05 2.31 0.05 2.34 -0.05 2.26 0.18

H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L H L

4:01 AM 10:10 AM 4:46 PM 10:38 PM 23TH 4:56 AM 11:03 AM 5:44 PM 11:32 PM 24F 5:48 AM 11:52 AM 6:37 PM 25SA 12:22 AM 6:38 AM 12:38 PM 7:25 PM 26SU 1:08 AM 7:24 AM 1:21 PM 8:08 PM 27M 1:51 AM 8:07 AM 2:03 PM 8:49 PM 28TU 2:32 AM 8:48 AM 2:43 PM 9:29 PM 29W 3:12 AM 9:28 AM 3:22 PM 10:08 PM 30TH 3:50 AM 10:08 AM 3:59 PM 10:46 PM 22W

2.23 -0.06 2.23 0.26 2.15 -0.08 2.23 0.31 2.1 -0.09 2.25 0.33 2.08 -0.11 2.27 0.33 2.08 -0.12 2.29 0.32 2.09 -0.12 2.31 0.31 2.11 -0.12 2.32 0.31 2.12 -0.1 2.33 0.31 2.11 -0.07 2.32

SEBASTIAN (INLET)

VERO (OCEAN)

FORT PIERCE

TIME OFFSET High Tide -48 min Low Tide -24 min HEIGHT OFFSET High Tide .93 feet Low Tide 1.0 foot

TIME OFFSET High Tide -55 min Low Tide -35 min HEIGHT OFFSET High Tide 1.45 feet Low Tide 1.36 feet

TIME OFFSET High Tide -31 min Low Tide -18 min HEIGHT OFFSET High Tide 1.14 feet Low Tide 1.50 feet

JENSEN BEACH (INDIAN RIVER)

ST. LUCIE INLET

JUPITER INLET

TIME OFFSET High Tide +55 Low Tide +1 hr; 42 min HEIGHT OFFSET High Tide 1 foot Low Tide .50 feet

TIME OFFSET High Tide -10 min Low Tide -9 min HEIGHT OFFSET High Tide 1.08 feet Low Tide 1.42 feet

TIME OFFSET High Tide +2 hrs; 17 min Low Tide +3 hrs; 4 min HEIGHT OFFSET High Tide .48 feet Low Tide .92 feet

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JUNE 2022

TREASURE COAST 11

FISHING FORECASTS

LAKE OKEECHOBEE

Capt. Nate Shellen Shellen Guide Service Okeechobee Bass Fishing Guides/Charters (863) 357-0892 sjmike7@aol.com OkeechobeeBassFishing.com FellsmereResevoirBassFishing.com

he Big “O” water level is 12.81 feet, the lack of rain this winter along with evaporation has just compounded the lack of water in the lake right now. Before the rainy season sets in and daily afternoon thunderstorms become the norm we will continue to see the drop. The traffic on the lake has dropped dramatically in the last month, Okeetantie and Scott Driver parks are now only sprinkled with trucks and trailers, particularly on weekdays. We have reached that time of year when fishing/catching is at its peak and no one is there to reap the benefits in many cases.

Bass fishing continues to be Justin Yaicj and his dad very consistent, with 20 to 30 bass caught these beauties with OkeechobeeBassFishing.com catches per morning, when using live fishing with live wild shiners. wild shiners. The full moon phase upcoming in June should provide PHOTOS CREDIT: Capt. Nate Shellen. anglers with an opportunity to catch a trophy-sized bass as well as large of bass that are fat and very healthy numbers of bass. During this time having spawned months ago. In of year, we regularly catch a mixture addition, the bass that have yet to spawn are feeding heavily getting prepared for the rigors of spawning, add to the mix the fish that have just recently completed spawning, which can be thin and very hungry, and it FISH STORIES ARE creates a very productive time for MADE IN catching. A large part of the equation OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA! for catching bass on artificial baits revolves around the newly hatched OKEECHOBEE COUNTY TOURISM shad that are abundant. The shad can be found in and around the Kissimmee grass lines that form the lakeside perimeter of the lake on the north end. Casting and retrieving a spinner bait into and through the grass patches during the early morning hours can jump-start your day. Silver willow leaf blades with a white skirt are a good starting point, however, many variables are possible with this bait, blade sizes, and colors, as well as skirt colors, can all be changed to alter the look and performance of your spinnerbait. Swimbaits and swim style jigs also are performing well. If you are lucky enough to find a school of bass in the open sections of the lake, a rattling/ lipless crankbait with chrome sides and a black bait are a standard for the lake, many different combinations are available in the bait too, and many days one particular color will far outperform others. Speed worms, www.visitokeechobeecounty.com Spro popping frog, Zara Spook, and (863) 763-3959 other lures mimicking the currently

12 TREASURE COAST

JUNE 2022

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available forage are also go to’s this time of year. Pan fishing is at the top of the scale during this time of year, bluegill and shell cracker can be found in the lake where clear water allows visibility as well as along the canal edges of every local canal on the north end including the Kissimmee River. Guided trips this time of year start with shiners and then turn towards catching a nice bunch of bluegill. Grass shrimp, crickets, and red worms are the go-to baits for all panfish.

DIVING FORECAST

Steve Wood Deep Six Watersports - Stuart (772) 288-3999 Stuart (772) 562-2883 Vero Steve.wood@deepsix.com www.deepsixintl.com

une marks the start of summer and the beginning of the BEST time all year for diving on the Treasure Coast. Water temperatures are up, seas are down and clean water should be easy to find. Everyone loves being offshore when visibility is 80 feet and the water temps are 80-degrees and boat wakes are the only waves to be found, making June the best time to experience what Florida diving has to offer. June also marks the beginning of the rainy season in south Florida and the potential for strong afternoon thunderstorms should be taken into consideration. Captains should review how to handle white-out conditions with divers, should they surface in a rainstorm. Basic signaling devices, such as safety

Spiny lobster season is closed but slipper lobster are still fair game. PHOTO CREDIT: Maen Zayyad/Shutterstock.com.

sausages and whistles, should be considered standard equipment. Consider reviewing an ‘emergency recall’ procedure to get divers back to the surface in the event of approaching storms. Revving the engine three times or banging metalto-metal are common ways to gain divers attention to come up safely. Night dives are popular this time of year too. Peck Lake just south of the St. Lucie Inlet in Stuart or the shallow reefs just off the beach north of Fort Pierce Inlet make for

excellent twilight and night dives since access is easy and boat rides are short. When water is clear, captains can easily monitor divers on the bottom 20 feet below. Avid night divers know lobster are nocturnal and although spiny lobster season is closed this time year, many divers are surprised to find out other species of lobster are still fair game. Spotted lobster (aka Spanish lobster), slipper lobster and shovel-nose lobster are unregulated and therefore have no closed season or bag limit on the east

coast of Florida. Take note that all species of egg bearing female lobster are still protected from harvest. Spotted lobsters are significantly smaller than traditional spiny lobster and are frequently found hanging up-side down under rock ledges and cracks. A net is the best tool to capture them. Shovel nose and slipper lobster are easy to grab by hand and are commonly found is pairs. Divers are wise to look closely for more if one is found in a particular.

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JUNE 2022

TREASURE COAST 13

Fly Fishing Corner Flounders are one of Capt. Mauri’s favorite fish to catch (and eat)!

By Capt. Michael Mauri

It’s Not Always About the Hero Shots!

or all of you that didn’t get it yet, I’m a total fly-fishing junkie who loves to chase any fish with a fly no matter what size or species. Some species like sheepshead, for example, can be really frustrating because every time I thought I found the right fly pattern, it shows it’s usually not working the next 30 times. They are one of the toughest fish to catch on fly sight fishing, at least in my book. Another fish I like to catch are flounders and I must admit mainly because I love eating them. Fishing-wise they are not as exciting, but it is kind of cool when you see them coming up from the bottom and chasing the fly. For this less spectacular fly fishing I use mainly a 5- or 6-weight rod with a floating line and a standard leader with 10-pound to 15-pound tippet. My favorite flies are clousers in size 1 - 8 in white/brown, brown/chartreuse, white and black. I carry always these colors in all sizes but with different heavy eyes, depending on how deep the water and/or how strong the current is. For the eye color, I use silver, black and chartreuse It is hard to describe but some days when I’m not working it is just relaxing walking and fishing the shallow water areas. Watching these fish and getting a few shots in, catching one here-and-there is the total other end from what I’m trying to show many of my customers while running charters and chasing their dream fish. It’s a welcome change for me!

PHOTOS CREDIT: Capt. Michael Mauri.

Capt. Michael Mauri www.mauriflyfishing.com michael@mauriflyfishing.com (772) 485-3321

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JUNE 2022

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JUNE 2022

TREASURE COAST 15

JUNE UPDATE By Michael Conner, Executive Director

A New Executive Director Named T

he major news at Indian Riverkeeper (IRK) is the resignation of Executive Director Mike Conner, who held the position for over two years, succeeding Marty Baum. “My decision to step down has more to do with economics, the rising cost of living on the Treasure Coast, than the current state of the Indian River Lagoon waters, or anything organization-related,” said Conner. My wife Michelle and I planned to retire to the Georgia mountains in the future, but the future is now. I embraced the position, and our board of directors is intact. Conner’s replacement is longtime IRK board member Jim Moir, who is also on the board of the Marine Resources Council, is a 20-plus-year volunteer member of the Martin County Local Planning Agency and has a background in marine science. “Jim Moir has been a mentor to me, his passion for the marine environment is astounding. He is a

16 TREASURE COAST

JUNE 2022

Jim Moir, a 30-year Stuart resident and lifelong environmental advocate, has been named Indian River Lagoon’s next Indian RiverKeeper.

wealth of knowledge, and I can rest assured that Indian Riverkeeper is in good hands with Jim at the helm,” said Conner. Conner asked that Treasure Coast anglers continue to support IRK’s mission, and return to this column in every issue of Coastal Angler Magazine for updates and Indian Riverkeeper events.

Water Conditions Now The good news is that the southernmost Indian

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River Lagoon has been spared massive Lake Okeechobee discharges for going on 30 months. Yet, the seagrass loss is at its worst, and there is little evidence of recovery of any kind. Efforts at seagrass restoration is limited and it is no secret that restoration on a large scale has never been successful, though small parcels are being done in the vicinity of Fort Pierce Inlet and close to the St. Lucie Inlet, two areas that benefit from good tidal exchange with ocean water. The bottom line is, the water quality throughout the winter dry season is good, but habitat grades are failing due to the seagrass loss. There has been a “regime change” from a seagrass (manatee, shoal and other native grasses) to a macroalgae habitat, dominated by gracilaria and lyngbya, which indicates excessive nutrient loads of both nitrogen and phosphorus, the byproducts of stormwater runoff rife with home fertilizers, septic leeching, and periodic sewage spills. Though the sewage infrastructure along the Treasure Coast (from roughly Sebastian Inlet south to the St. Lucie Inlet) is better than that of the northern Lagoon, seagrass loss is still happening. Which brings the question: What is killing seagrasses in that region? And the answer may very will be rampant herbicide use. Glyphosate and other herbicides are readily available to the consumer, and is still used habitually by municipalities, without regard to the damage they are likely causing. We at Indian Riverkeeper are exploring avenues of influence to curb the use of these noxious chemicals and we can only ask readers to consider eliminating the use of Roundup and similar herbicides to kill weeds in lawns, and

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Indian River Lagoon shoreline north of Jensen had buildups of lyngbya, a macroalgae last summer. As waters warm, it’s likely to bloom again. PHOTO CREDIT: Mike Conner.

landscapes. We should make clear to NERP would work to eliminate the local elected officials that herbicides remaining discharges not stopped by are the “smoking gun” behind the completion of CERP projects. Under NERP, the U.S. Army seagrass loss. Corps of Engineers would be required to develop new infrastructure to Legislative Update stop harmful discharges to the U.S. Congressman Brian Mast (FL- northern estuaries and improve water 18) recently introduced legislation, quality for Lake Okeechobee, the The Northern Estuaries Restoration Caloosahatchee Estuary, Charlotte Plan (NERP), to force the U.S. Army Harbor, the Indian River Lagoon, Corps of Engineers to take action to the Lake Worth Lagoon and the St. address harmful algal blooms and Lucie Estuary. Other objectives of the end the toxic discharges that continue infrastructure will include restoring natural water flows and hydrological to plague the northern estuaries. NERP is modeled after the conditions, enhancing habitats, native Comprehensive Everglades vegetation and keystone species, and Restoration Plan (CERP) with a focus the dredging of nutrient-filled muck specifically on stopping harmful from Lake Okeechobee. It will be interesting to see how the discharges from Lake Okeechobee. Mast says there is no issue that Legislature reacts to Mast’s assertion impacts our community at a deeper that the communities impacted by the or more destructive level than discharges need additional protection and have the right to personal discharges from Lake Okeechobee. “The Everglades restoration protection from toxic conditions infrastructure authorized by CERP that the Lake Okeechobee discharges is critically important, but we also bring. must begin planning for what comes after, and that must include fully If you are a business owner and would eliminating harmful discharges from like to learn more about the benefits Lake Okeechobee.” of supporting Indian Riverkeeper, The goal of CERP is to restore email Exec. Director Jim Moir at America’s Everglades never intended keeper@theindianriverkeeper.org to completely eliminate harmful or call (772) 521-1882. Contact us if discharges to the northern estuaries. you are interested in volunteering For example, CERP projects are at future events, which we will expected to eliminate only two-thirds announce on our Facebook page, of discharges to the St. Lucie Estuary. “Indian Riverkeeper.”

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Email your information ality and high-qu rger) (500KB or la @ easurecoast photos to tr e.com. lerMagazin CoastalAng

Brett Schoch showing off his two nice solid fish! PHOTO COURTESY of Brett.

James Sparkman with a beautiful beach tarpon caught on a live threadfin herring along the outskirts of a large baitfish school just north of the St. Lucie Inlet in 22 feet of water.

Cherlyn Arnold caught this nice flounder fishing with her canine buddy Cali. Caught using a NLBN 3-inch.

PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Jonathan Earhart.

PHOTO CREDIT: Lewis Arnold.

Matthew Coffey with a tarpon caught near sunset in the Indian River, Fort Pierce.

Ari Buel had the pleasure of reeling in this nice dolphin (and another!) while kite fishing off of Stuart with her “awesome husband (my captain) Ryan Buel” in 160 feet on Whoo Dat.

PHOTO CREDIT: Evan Fanelli.

PHOTO CREDIT: Ryan Buel.

Lewis Arnold with a red snapper caught and released on a recent offshore trip. PHOTO CREDIT: Britt Maddux.

Luke Brenner and William Lott with a large kingfish caught on a wire leader with a live grunt in 65 feet of water fishing nearshore with Chaos Fishing Charters. PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Jonathan Earhart.

David Fiedler with an early May mahi. PHOTO SUPPLIED by Jonathan Bloom.

Frank Orio hauling them in on the Miss Fort Pierce. PHOTO SUPPLIED by Frank Orio.

Frank Forgione with a 48-inch snook caught in Vero Beach while throwing D.O.A. Shrimp while fishing for trout with a 3000 series reel spooled with 15-pound braid and a 20-pound leader. “I first thought I had snagged an alligator!” After a quick photo, fish was revived and she swam off strong.

Nice haul of mahi by Mark Coomber, Doug Blanchard, Kurt Riggott, and Jason Bourque in early May aboard DayMaker Charters. PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Nick Cremasco.

PHOTO CREDIT: Frank Forgione.

Matt with a stud bull mahi he caught kayak fishing with Pushin’ Water Kayak Charters.

Jason Bourque with a 32-pound mahi caught aboard DayMaker Charters with Capt. Nick Cremasco.

PHOTO CREDIT: x Brian Nelli.

PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Nick Cremasco.

Tony Ettari with a 60-pound cobia caught in 98 feet of water on a live goggle eye aboard the Aknot. PHOTO CREDIT: Tony Schaus.

JUNE FISHING CONDITIONS June 1

GOOD

Evening

June 21

POOR

Morning

June 2

BEST

Evening

June 22

POOR

Morning

June 3

POOR

Evening

June 23

FAIR

Morning

June 4

POOR

Evening

June 24

FAIR

Morning

June 5

POOR

Evening

June 25

POOR

Morning

June 6

FAIR

Evening

June 26

POOR

Morning

June 7

FAIR

Morning

June 27

POOR

Morning

June 8

POOR

Morning

June 28

GOOD

Evening

June 9

POOR

Morning

June 29

GOOD

Evening

June 10

GOOD

Morning

June 30

POOR

Evening

June 11

BEST

Morning

June 12

FAIR

Morning

June 13

FAIR

Morning

June 14

GOOD

Evening

June 15

GOOD

Evening

June 16

BEST

Evening

June 17

BEST

Evening

June 18

BEST

Evening

June 19

BEST

Evening

June 20

POOR

Morning

What do the ratings mean? POOR day basically means the fish will either steal all your bait or will not even touch your line. FAIR day means that you catch one or two fish but you will have to work hard to do so. GOOD day means that you will catch enough fish to feel gratified. BEST day means that you will catch something almost every time you cast your line in the water.

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St. Lucie County Artificial Reef Update:

SEAGRASSES, BASKET SPONGES & OYSTER REEFS Juvenile yellowtail snapper (left) and black seabass (above) caught on Fort Pierce City Marina breakwater islands in 2014.

Oyster prism workshop.

PHOTOS CREDIT: St. Lucie County Coastal Resources.

nshore fish habitats in the Indian River Lagoon continue to be important for the St. Lucie County Artificial Reef Program. Many of the fishes caught on the County’s artificial reefs spend a portion of their lives in the relatively sheltered waters of the river, typically on seagrass beds, in red mangrove prop roots, on oyster bars or over nearshore hardbottoms. Subtidal oyster bars have provided habitat for juvenile black seabass (Centropristis striata), yellowtail snapper (Ocyurus chrysurus), and other fish and invertebrates. A juvenile Goliath grouper (Epinephelus itajara) and several juvenile lobsters (Panulirus argus) were recently seen inside a sunken culvert in the Fort Pierce Inlet. Water quality plays a critical role in ensuring the health of fishes. The water column is considered an Essential Fish Habitat by the National Marine Fishery Service. Oyster bars provide threedimensional structure for many juvenile fish species but also help to increase water quality by filtering and recycling nutrients. Other organisms like seagrasses, sponges, and other bivalves (e.g.

clams, mussels) also play a part in nutrient cycling and are hoped to be incorporated in a “water quality module” that will provide cover for juvenile fishes in the Indian River Lagoon. Large basket sponges are known to survive in Government Cut in Miami and are said to once have thrived in the Fort Pierce Turning Basin. Researchers with the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission are working to restore sponge populations in Florida Bay. These researchers are being consulted to help restore sponges in the Fort Pierce Inlet. Seagrasses are another organism that provide juvenile fish habitat and help clean the water column. Unfortunately, seagrass coverage in the Indian River Lagoon has diminished in the last few years. Nurseries to produce seagrass for research purposes already exist at Florida Atlantic University’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic

Institute Campus and at the Florida Oceanographic Society. Sea & Shoreline, LLC has also applied for funding to construct a seagrass nursery in St. Lucie County that can provide seagrasses for restoration projects on the east coast of Florida. In addition to seagrasses and sponges, perhaps the most widely used method of improving water quality while forming a three-dimensional structure for juvenile fish is the oyster reef. Traditionally oyster reefs have been made by wrapping oyster shells (cultch) in plastic netting. Oyster larvae which settle on the cultch grow into adult oysters, encompass the plastic netting, and create fish habitat. The St. Lucie County Artificial Reef Program is looking at techniques to reduce plastics used in oyster reef restoration. On Saturday, April 26, Florida Seagrant hosted

SEE SLC REEF......................................................PAGE 31

Sheepshead on subtidal Oyster Reef Gamma.

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TREASURE COAST 21

Do You Want to Make Your Own PVC Recycling Bins?

RECYCLE....................................................FROM PAGE 3 that is braided or contains wire cannot be recycled. Fishing line that has a lot of growth on it or plant material mixed up with it may not be recycled as well. Cut this fishing line up in small pieces (less than 12 inches) and place in a covered trash bin to make sure the line is disposed of properly.

Here’s some tips and instructions on how to build your own recycling station.

Who does the recycling?

MATERIALS NEEDED (per station) • 2’ of 6” PVC Pipe – NOTE: Most pipe is sold in 10’ sections • 1 6” 90 degree elbow • 1 6” female threaded adapter • 1 6’ threaded male plug

Berkley Conservation Institute which is part of Pure Fishing recycles the fishing line. The Institute was developed to support conservation and angler recruitment efforts. They work and collaborate with a variety of organizations to enhance populations of sport fish and to introduce the next generation to angling.

Where do you send the fishing line? Pure Fishing America (Berkley) 1900 18th Street Spirit Lake, IA 51360-1041

I always throw my line in the trash. Is that ok?

If you throw out fishing line you are still keeping it out of the environment, but make sure the trash receptacle has a lid and be sure to cut the line into short lengths (6 to 12 inches). Once line goes to a landfill, longer pieces may be scavenged by animals trying to eat it or build nests out of it. Animals may become entangled, entangle their young, or will bring the line right back out into the environment.

INSTRUCTIONS • Cut PVC pipe into approximately 2’ long pieces using a hacksaw, reciprocating saw, bandsaw, or table saw. • In a well aerated area, apply PVC glue to the inside (non threaded part) of the adapter. With adapter sitting squarely on the ground, press the pipe down into the adapter until snug. NOTE: PVC glue works by dissolving the PVC, then sets rapidly, so you don’t have a lot of time to “play” with it. • Apply PVC glue to the inside of one end of the elbow (it doesn’t matter which end). Press the elbow onto the pipe. Try and make sure that any blemishes on the pipe end up on the back side of the bin. • Drill two holes (about 1/4” - 3/8”) in the plug (for drainage in case water gets into the container) and attach to the adapter hand tight.

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• Affix stickers to the bin. (Need stickers? Order from Florida MRRP). HOW TO INSTALL 1. Decide where you are going to install the bin. We suggest close to a trash can so less trash ends up in the bin. 2. Using a long drill bit (8”), drill 2 holes in the supporting wood (post or railings). The holes should be placed such that the upper hole will line up with the lower part of the elbow and the lower hole lines up with the collar of the adapter. Drill a hole through the base of the elbow at the back of the bin. 3. Use bolts to attach the bin to the post at the top hole. Lok-tite may be used on the threads to try and keep the nuts from coming loose. 4. From the back side of the post, drill through the existing hole and through the collar of the adapter. Use a second bolt to attach the bin through these holes. ALTERNATE METHOD OF INSTALLATION In relatively secure areas (paid-access fishing piers, for example), or where you must attach the bin to a concrete railing, you can use long cableties/ zip ties to wrap around the post and bin in 2 or 3 places. Make sure they are secure and any excess part of the tie is snipped off.

Deterring Vandals

You can help prevent removal of 4x4 posts in one of two ways: 1. Use concrete to help set the post in the ground. 2. Nail or screw a piece of 2x4 perpendicular to the 4x4 post, as close to the ground as you can. This will prevent people from being able to rock the post back and forth. If the container is attached to a pier/railing, you can attach a 2x4 or 4x4 to the pier adjacent to both sides of the container—this helps stop people from rocking the bin back and forth and breaking it loose. If you have fishing line that you would like to recycle or if you want to know where the closest recycling station is, use the FWC interactive map to search by county, type of bin, GPS location at https://mrrp.myfwc.com/bin-locations/

Florida Mahi-Mahi Tostada INGREDIENTS • • • • • • • • •

4 (6-ounce) Florida Mahi-Mahi fillets ½ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped (divided) 2 tablespoons hot pepper sauce 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice 4 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided) 4 corn tortillas 2 cups shredded lettuce Fresh salsa, as needed Sea salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste

PREPARATION: Mix 1/2 of the cilantro, pepper sauce, 2 tablespoons oil, lime juice, and salt and pepper in large bowl. Add fillets to marinade. Cover and chill 1 hour. Remove fillets from marinade. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill fillets 4 to 5 minutes per side until the center of fish is done. Transfer fillets to a platter and keep warm. Place 2 tablespoons oil in a large heavy saucepan over medium-high heat. Add tortillas, one at a time, pushing down gently into the pan with tongs. Cook 1 minute until browned on one side; turn and cook 1 minute longer until browned and crisp. Drain on paper towels. Place fillet on shredded lettuce in center of tortilla; top with fresh salsa and remaining cilantro. See more Fresh From Florida recipes at www.followfreshfromflorida.com.

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TREASURE COAST 23

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By Mike Hammond kayak 360 degrees s more and and move side more people are returning to the outdoors for to side without any forward or recreation, kayak fishing is one backward momentum also has huge of the activities experiencing the advantages when stalking fish. These most growth. This is nothing new are a couple tricks an instructor will for kayak fishing though since it teach you in the American Canoe has been one of the fastest growing Association Level 1 skills course. There are many other strokes, outdoor pursuits for several years. This is a great thing. Once concern tips and tricks that instructors I hear consistency; however, is should share to make you a more that many new kayak anglers have efficient angler / paddler and to help not taken the time to actually straighten out the learning curve. With a wide variety of outfitters learn how to paddle. Admittedly, it is no difficult to hop in a wide who offer some level of instruction, kayak and figure out how to move it can be difficult determining who forward and backward on a calm offers quality lessons. On one end day. With a lesson or two anglers are American Canoe Association Instructor Trainers. can dramatically expand their (ACA) Unfortunately, there are occasional opportunities to find fish. The forward stroke is used most mobile outfitters on the other often but is probably the one done end of the paddling instruction most inefficiently. New paddlers spectrum who pop up every year tend to use their arms more than and put people on the water offering their much stronger core muscles instruction with little experience while paddling. A good instructor themselves. If you’d like to improve will give tips to fix this quickly which your paddling skills, I highly will help add speed and distance to recommend lessons from a certified your paddles and give you a fighting ACA instructor. You don’t have to take lessons chance in strong winds or currents. Even if you have a peddle system, it to get on the water. But why not get can get too shallow in some areas to your old spots faster and quieter for the fins to work or you may have while also expanding your range? You can search for ACA an issue with your equipment. The ability to paddle forward without instructors at cms.americancone. exhausting yourself has a lot of org/Instructor-Statistics/Listing. advantages. Being able to silently spin your CalusaBlueway.com

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June 4-12, 2022 is National Fishing and Boating Week!

he water is open. Take this opportunity to enjoy the outdoors safely, practice social distancing, and spend quality time with your family. Takemefishing.org offers the following suggestions on how to fully enjoy this week.

ENJOY THE OUTDOORS SAFELY Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors and spend more time in nature. Fishing and boating allow you to release stress, relax, and enjoy wildlife. Before planning your next fishing adventure, check your State Natural Resources Agency website before heading to the water for updates on park closures, state park restrictions, regulations, and other information. Consider the health and wellbeing of yourself and others before traveling to your favorite fishing spot, practice social distancing, and Recreate Responsibly to protect yourself, others, and the outdoors. Here are some things you can do during this week:

USE OUR INTERACTIVE MAPS

fishing weekends – where anglers can go fishing without a license. Check out the next free fishing days in your state (https://www.takemefishing.org/ how-to-fish/how-to-catch-fish/freefishing-days/) and consider taking a friend or family member who has never been fishing out on the water for the day. Use the hashtags #FirstCatch and #GetYourFishOn and follow Take Me Fishing on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Pinterest. • Facebook.com/TakeMeFishing • Twitter.com/Take_Me_Fishing • YouTube Take Me Fishing • Instagram.com/take_me_fishing

Find places to fish and boat near you using our Interactive Map (https://www. MENTOR OR TEACH takemefishing.org/where-to-fish-and-boat) and SOMEONE NEW TO FISH COVID-19 agency updates map (https://www. During National Fishing and Boating takemefishing.org/how-to-fish/fishing-resources- Week, or the next time you go fishing, take events/state-agency-covid-19-updates/). someone new with you: a child, a relative, a friend.

LEARN TO FISH

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Watch our instructional videos and read tips from pros on how to cast, tie knots Check out the new Angler Academy and make fishing rigs in our How to Fish section (https://www.takemefishing.org/how-to-fish/ (https://www.takemefishing.org/how-to-fish/ fishing-resources/angler-academy-for-kids/) for how-to-catch-fish/). kids at home, which includes fishing games for kids, fish art and craft projects, and other activities. WATCH OUR VIDEOS Contact us (https://www.takemefishing.org/howON YOUTUBE to-fish/how-to-catch-fish/national-fishing-andVisit our YouTube channel (https://www. boating-week/marketing@takemefishing.org) if youtube.com/profile?user=takemefishingfilms) you’d like to receive a free printed book of these to learn new knots, techniques, and get inspired fun activities! for your next fishing adventure. The fishing fun does not stop while at home! SHARE THIS NATIONAL

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Join others in sharing the joys of boating Free fishing days are a perfect opportunity and fishing (https://www.instagram.com/take_ for beginners to try out fishing for the first me_fishing/) by spreading the word through your time. These are days – some states even offer free social media channels. GET YOUR FISH ON

Conservation Through Participation You may not know it, but participation in fishing and boating week events helps fund efforts to conserve our natural waterways. A portion of all fishing tackle and license sales, as well as boat supply and registration sales, fund the conservation and preservation of our nation’s waterways through a program called the Sport Fish Restoration Program. This means that every time you purchase a fishing license or register a boat, you are helping improve the natural places you love.

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It’s Almost Time for the Treasure Coast Waterway Cleanup

he Treasure Coast Waterway Cleanup looks forward to a successful fifteenth annual event. Since 2008, the yearly cleanup effort has removed 95.5 tons of trash from the waterways of the Treasure Coast. The traditional cleanup event, including the Peck Lake Reef Dive Cleanup, will happen on Sat., July 23, from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. “Our weeklong, self-reporting option continues to be popular with many folks, particularly students needing those precious community service hours and be a permanent element to cleanup effort,” says April Price, Event Coordinator. “Students can significantly increase their volunteer participation hours and many groups that only connect during the business days enjoyed the outdoor group activity. Our cleanup week will kick off on Saturday, July 16 with the start of our annually proclaimed Treasure Coast Waterway Cleanup Week and will run thru Sunday, July 24.” With an effort to reduce the event’s carbon footprint, the Marine Industries Association of the Treasure Coast (MIATC), encourages online registration and data reporting. Additionally, the event continues to replace disposable gloves and bags with reusable options. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own reusable cleanup tools if they own them. Supplies will be available for all volunteers at the designated sites on Sat. July 23. There will be more than 25 sites open in Martin, St. Lucie and Indian River counties. Volunteers are encouraged to pre-register and choose the cleanup option that fits their needs. All volunteers are eligible for a collectible t-shirt and if joining the effort on the water, the annual commemorative burgee too. “This is the perfect summertime activity for community, youth and civic groups. There is no limit to

info@TCWaterwayCleanup.com (772) 285-1646 Brothers Marcus and Chase Shimmin pitching in at the Sebastian Main Street Boat Ramp. PHOTO CREDIT: Kim Haigler, City of Sebastian.

the number of folks you can have participate on your team. If you have questions, just give us a call and we are happy to coach you on how to get your group engaged,” says Price. Cleanup participants are encouraged to photograph their efforts so they can be shared on the event website and Facebook page. Due to great sponsorship support, this year all participants who submit their collection data online will be entered into an online raffle that cleanup organizer will hold in August. Corporate sponsorships and raffle prizes are welcomed and appreciated. Be part of the solution to pollution! For more information contact April Price, (772) 285-1646 or visit www.tcwaterwaycleanup.com. The Marine Industries Association of the Treasure Coast, Inc. (MIATC), is a not-for-profit trade association representing recreational marine businesses in Martin, St. Lucie, and Indian River and Okeechobee counties. MIATC is dedicated to the promotion of pleasure boating and its related industries.

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SAWFISH NEWS By Tonya Wiley, Havenworth Coastal Conservation

Summer is Coming!

What To Do If You See or Catch an Endangered Sawfish T

he population of smalltooth sawfish (Pristis pectinata) in the United States experienced a dramatic decline during the 20th century due to overfishing and habitat loss. Given the decline, NOAA Fisheries listed the U.S. population of smalltooth sawfish as “endangered” under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) in 2003. One of the best ways to track the effectiveness of ongoing management and conservation efforts is to collect information about the sawfish encounters of fishers, divers, and others. Details of public sightings and captures of sawfish can substantially increase the data we have about the species, allowing us to make management and policy

decisions that are reflective of the realities in the water. With summer • Cut the line as close to the hook rapidly approaching when we’ll spend countless hours on and in the water, as safely possible • Share the details of your sawfish we’re seeking help from the angling and diving community to send us catch with scientists • Anglers should note that information about their sawfish advertising fishing trips or charters interactions. aimed at catching endangered For anglers to safely and legally smalltooth sawfish can be considered release any sawfish accidentally “targeting,” which is a violation of the ESA. Therefore, I strongly urge caught while fishing: that the following conservation • Release sawfish immediately • Leave the sawfish, especially the messaging be included in all social media posts regarding sawfish gills, in the water at all times • Never lift a sawfish from the catches: Sawfish are protected under the Endangered Species Act. Help water or drag it ashore • Do not use gaffs or ropes to protect this critically endangered species by following the handling and secure any captured sawfish

PHOTO CREDIT: Havenworth Coastal Conservation.

release guidelines available at www. SawfishRecovery.org. For divers to safely and legally enjoy encounters with sawfish: • Keep your distance • Avoid disturbing sawfish • Never chase, feed, or touch them • Share information about your sawfish encounters with scientists • Divers should note that advertising expeditions aimed at encountering endangered smalltooth sawfish can be considered “targeting,” which is a violation of the ESA. Therefore, I strongly urge that the following conservation messaging

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them. Please share the information about your sawfish encounters by visiting www.SawfishRecovery.org, calling 1-844-4SAWFISH, emailing sawfish@myfwc.com, or entering the details in the FWC Reporter App. Tonya Wiley is President of Havenworth Coastal Conservation, and may be contacted at Tonya@ havenworth.org or (941) 201-2685.

SLC REEF......................... FROM PAGE 21 and the shells therein. As these an oyster prism workshop where plastic-free oyster reef modules were assembled by volunteers. The modules, designed and used by the University of Florida consist of concrete covered jute fabric hardened into a prism shape. Permits have already been obtained to install these modules at the Old Fort Park Stormwater outfall on South Indian River Drive. St. Lucie County is also in discussions with Okeanos, a Miami Beach firm, to test some of their plastic-free netting on the County’s Indian Hills Stormwater Outfall oyster reef. Free-floating oyster larvae will settle on calcium carbonate found in Okeanos’ netting

larvae develop into adult oysters, they produce calcium carbonate shells, reduce the dissolved carbon dioxide in the water column, and provide habitat for many species of marine organisms, including juvenile sportfishes like red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus) and seatrout (Cynosion nebulosus). For more information on the St. Lucie County Artificial Reef Program, to give personal experiences with Patrick Price, or to get involved with the County’s oyster restoration program, contact Jim Oppenborn, St. Lucie County Coastal Resources Coordinator, at oppenbornj@stlucieco.org or (772) 462-1713.

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DEALING WITH

HIGH WINDS INSHORE By Capt. Michael Okruhlik

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he wind was unrelenting this spring. It kept me off the water more than I prefer. I have high hopes it will subside by the time this article is published, but if not, here is an approach that saved the day more than once this spring. If you find yourself facing high winds, consider the following. Safety is always No. 1 on the water, so let’s keep that in the forefront as you read. On windy days, the majority of the time, I seek shelter and fish the lee shoreline. First and foremost, it is the most comfortable place to fish, and the safest depending on wind velocity. Unfortunately, the fish don’t always spend their time feeding looking for a protected and calm area. Think about it like this, turbid water can disorient smaller bait fish easier than it will the larger gamefish we all seek. Therefore, the windward shore is at times where the fish will feed more frequently. For one, it is simply an easier meal. Secondly, the wind current can blow and congregate smaller fish in that area, shoreline or cove. With the why out of the way, here is how I fished this approach on a recent trip. The cove I describe opens to the bay on the west, has two drains on the north and east, and I had a southeast wind of 15 to 20 knots. I started with the comfortable approach and one that, in general, made the most sense. I waded the protected shore and fished in front of the two

drains. The water color was clean, and there was some bait tight to the shoreline in very skinny water. For all practical purposes, it was too skinny to fish and grassy. After thoroughly working the lee shore and drains without a bite, I rounded the curve and focused my attention on the windward, dirty north shore. Upon approach, I noticed the bait was farther out than it had been on the lee shore. This was key, because it was hovering in a fishable depth. My weedless rattling paddletail drew attention to my lure in this dirty turbid water. After making several cast directly downwind to the bank, I quickly determined the distance from the shore where the water was deep enough to not foul my hook. Once I knew the zone, I angled my cast at 45 degrees from the bank. This allowed me to fish somewhat parallel to the shore and keep my lure in the bait zone. Although it was less comfortable casting across the wind with waves crashing me from behind in muddy water, this saved the day and is where all the reds and trout were caught. Remember, when fishing the windward shore, be mindful of where you anchor your vessel and keep safety first. Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures with the built-in tail rattle, Controlled Descent Lures and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.

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Summer-Long, Statewide Fishing Competition Launches Memorial Day Weekend

CA Florida, the state’s leading organization dedicated to marine fisheries conservation, education and advocacy, will launch the eighth-annual West Marine CCA Florida STAR competition presented by Yamaha on May 28. The summer-long event invites anglers and nonanglers to participate and win their share of prizes valued at almost $500,000, including boats, motors, scholarships and more. Launched in 2015, STAR focuses on conservation with its technology-based, catchphoto-release format. STAR’s dedicated smartphone app promotes proper handling of species and allows participants to upload competition photos, eliminating the requirement to harvest or capture and transport fish. CCA Florida also uses data collected from the app to educate the public on the importance of protecting Florida’s marine resources. This important data is also available to other conservation organizations and universities for use in their studies on conservation, habitat and stock assessments. “In the past seven years, it’s been amazing to see STAR participants support conservation by embracing the catch-photo format and picking up garbage during the annual competition,” CCA Florida STAR Director Leiza Fitzgerald said. “Even more exciting is awarding more than $2.1 million in prizes, with $700,000 specifically awarded in

youth scholarships, to the thousands of statewide STAR registrants.” The 2022 STAR competition has 17 divisions targeting 12 inshore and offshore species plus the cleanup of trash. STAR’s signature Tagged Redfish Division offers winners the choice of a Contender Boats 22 Sport, Pathfinder Boats 2200 TRS or Spyder Boats Vapor 19FX, all powered by Yamaha Outboards. In addition, this year’s competition is debuting the Alta Equipment Super STAR Tagged Redfish prize, which if caught, will give the winner $50,000. The two winning youth anglers in the signature division can also win new boats powered with Yamaha Outboards, trailers, Minn Kota trolling motors and Humminbird electronics. The best opportunity to catch this year’s tagged redfish will be in Brevard, Citrus and Charlotte Counties, STAR’s 2022 Destination Counties which each have eight tagged redfish in their coastal waters. One of the newest divisions, the Tigress Outriggers and Gear Tagged Dolphin Division offers one winner a $10,000 cash prize. The first STAR registrant and CCA Florida member who catches a tagged dolphin, released in the coastal waters of Florida for STAR by the Dolphin Research program implemented by the Beyond Our Shores foundation, will win. STAR is a family-friendly competition, and

CCA Florida youth members (ages 6 to 17) can participate for free. Kids are encouraged to submit entries in the Youth Scholarship Division presented by Realtree Fishing for an opportunity to win one of 12 scholarships totaling $100,000. Other divisions include ladies, kayak, conservation, guides and more. Since most division winners are determined by a random drawing, it is not about catching the biggest fish, any size fish can win. Registration is open and ends Sept. 5. To register for STAR 2022 or receive additional information on divisions, prizes and more, visit ccaflstar.com or Facebook.

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Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic Celebrates 20 Years

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ne of the most popular events of the Gulf Coast big-game tournament circuit is celebrating 20 years of exciting, high-stakes competition. The 20th annual Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic is set to get underway June 22 and continue through June 26 at the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. This year’s platinum anniversary will showcase some of the sport’s top boats vying for million-dollar cash prizes. The Wind Creek Casino & Hotel-Atmore is the 2022 presenting sponsor. “We are celebrating 20 years of the Classic in style,” said Tournament Director Jason Draughn. “I’d like to welcome back all our valued contestants and Wind Creek, our presenting sponsor. I’d also like to welcome our two new tournament partners, MarineMax/Grady-White and Pelagic, Jack Daniels and SeaKeeper as new sponsors and Krueger, Fosdyck & Associates/Merrill Lynch once again, along with our fantastic line-up of other sponsors and supporters. We couldn’t have had this much fun for 20 years without every one of them!” Participants will be competing for awards and more than two million dollars in cash with blue marlin the top prize. Eligible fish must be at least 110 inches long to qualify. That minimum is measured from the tip of the fish’s lower jaw to the fork of the tail. Qualifiers typically average 500 pounds or heavier. In addition to the blue marlin weight category, smaller blues, white marlin, sailfish and spearfish that are successfully released earn points in the competitive release division. Releases are verified by video footage. Yellowfin and bigeye tuna, wahoo and dolphin are scored one point per pound. The ECBC attracts multi-million dollar sport-fishing yachts from across the Gulf of Mexico as well as the southeastern United States. Fishing begins after Thursday’s noon start from the Destin Pass and concludes Saturday afternoon. Eligible fish are weighed Friday and Saturday evenings at the Baytowne Marina. Viewing is free and open to the public. Hancock Whitney Bank is sponsoring the ECBC Golf Scramble, which is open to participants and sponsors. Final details are in the works. This year, entries made at the kick-off on June 22 will be charged a late fee, so early registration is recommended.

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hanges to Florida’s redfish management took another step forward at the May meeting of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Staff will now continue gathering input on the proposed rules and return to the commission for a Final Rule Hearing later this year. The proposed rule changes would:

PHOTO COURTESY OF CAPT. KIRK WALTZ

• Modify the redfish management regions into nine regions, each smaller than the current three redfish management zones. • Prohibit captain and crew from retaining a bag limit when on a for-hire trip. • Reduce the off-the-water transport limit from six to four fish per person. • Increase the bag limit for the Big Bend region from one to two fish per person. • Reduce the eight-fish vessel limit in each of the proposed management regions: • Panhandle, Big Bend, Northeast: four fish. • Tampa Bay, Sarasota Bay, Charlotte Harbor, Southwest, Southeast: two fish. • Allow only catch-and-release fishing for redfish in the Indian River Lagoon region. “With this new management approach, this agency is committed to continuing to work with our partners and stakeholders in finding solutions for redfish,” said FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto. According to FWC, the modification of redfish management regions and regulations, as part of the new management approach, will better capture regional differences and improve angler satisfaction. For current recreational redfish regulations, visit MyFWC.com. 20 FLORIDA

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CRAPPIE REGS CHANGES PROPOSED

everal regulations changes for black crappie fishing in Florida are moving ahead after gaining approval at the May meeting of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The commission unanimously approved proposed regulations changes to size and/or bag limits for black crappie on specific Florida waterbodies. A final hearing will be held at a future meeting after collection of public input. Here are the proposed changes: • Remove the 12” minimum length limit on Lake Jackson (Osceola County). • Remove specific size and bag limits on the following Fish Management Areas (they will return to statewide regulations of 25 fish daily bag limit and no minimum size limit): • Montgomery Lake • Watertown Lake • Suwannee Lake • Hardee County Park • Bobby Hicks Park Pond • Gadsden Park Pond • Manatee Lake •Largo Central Park Nature Preserve

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“Anglers fish for specks (black crappie) when they want to have a fish fry,” said FWC Commissioner Gary Lester. “Black crappie remains a popular target for anglers, and we commend staff ’s dedication to ensuring crappie fisheries thrive in Florida.” Staff completed a Black Crappie Management Plan in 2019 that called for a comprehensive review of black crappie regulations. Staff reviewed the biological aspects of regulations and gathered stakeholder input. While many anglers asked for a statewide minimum length limit, biological data indicated such a regulation would not improve most fisheries across the state and would unnecessarily restrict angler harvest opportunities. Therefore, no statewide length limit was proposed.

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WORLD RECORD REDBREAST?

ester Roberts, of Blackshear, Ga., was slinging a crankbait during a bass tournament on south Georgia’s Satilla River when he came tight on what could be a tie for the world record for redbreast sunfish. The current IGFA all-tackle world record for the species is a Florida fish, caught by Alvin Buchanan from the Suwannee River in 1984. Both big redbreasts weighed 1 pound, 12 ounces, which is an impressive individual for a species that rarely grows to even a pound. Roberts caught his record fish on May 7 from a stretch of river near Folkston, Ga. It measured 11 3/8 inches in length and beat out the previous Georgia state record by an ounce. The previous record, which had stood since 1998, weighed 1 pound, 11 ounces. Redbreast sunfish are a species that prefer to live in rivers and streams. They are native to the eastern United States. Their bellies are yellow to orangered or crimson red. Their heads have blue or blue-green stripes. In recent years Georgia’s Wildlife Resources Division has been working to save habitat for redbreast on the Satilla. The introduction of invasive and highly predatory flathead catfish is a threat to the native fish species. If left unchecked, flatheads could decimate sunfish populations in one of the world’s best redbreast rivers. See more record fish at www.coastalanglermag.com.

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Mark Your Calendars for the 2022 Greater Jacksonville Kingfish Tournament!

ong considered the granddaddy of all kingfish tournaments, the 42nd year of the Greater Jacksonville Kingfish Tournament (GJKT) is slated for July 22-23 out of Jacksonville, Fla.’s Jim King Park at the confluence of Sisters Creek and the St. Johns River. Started by local businessmen in 1980, the GJKT has spawned the interest of generations of anglers, and the inaugural event was held in July of 1981. Out of its success, Jacksonville Marine Charities was born and serves as the operating arm of the GJKT. Proceeds from the event will support marine science research, preservation and education. To date, well over $400,000 have supported these ventures. Traditionally the tournament draws thousands of spectators, who enjoy the daily events and the parade of boats arriving to weigh their catch. This is as close to stadium spectating as it gets, because boats of all sizes and almost every make will make their way to weigh in. It’s great to root for the underdogs in the small boats. There will also be good food and plenty of drinks in the Liar’s Tent as well as entertainment. And don’t forget the Boatique, where you can purchase some very nice tournament shirts. Since it’s inception, the GJKT has been a multi-day event, but with the

uncertainty of fuel prices, as well as a sputtering economy, the board of directors of the GJKT has adopted a format change. This year we have moved the tournament fishing days to Friday and Saturday. Friday will be the General Tournament Day. That’s right, it is a one-day general tournament day. Anglers may weigh in two of their biggest fish and the Ladies can weigh a Lady Angler fish. The Largest Kingfish and Largest Aggregate places, as well as Largest Ladies will all come from that one day of fishing. Saturday is dedicated to the Kids Jr. Angler Tournament, and fishing will end at 2 p.m. on Saturday. All awards will be Saturday evening. These changes will save you the whole second day of expenses that normally come with tournament week, such as lodging, fuel, bait, etc., as well as saving you from using up vacation days from work. The tournament payout will still be the same! Anglers still fish for the best prize in the game, a 25-foot Contender with twin Yamaha 150s, rigged out and valued at over $160,000. Also new this year, the tournament will pay down to 20 places in Big Fish and 20 places in Aggregate as well as 10 places for Ladies! The rewards are bigger than ever, and you’ll save the added expense and wear and tear of that second day. So do your homework and be ready for game day! The GJKT looks forward to having a great event. For more information, please visit kingfishtournament.com

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LURES

CASTING FAR FROM SHORE: THE DYNAMICS OF LONG DISTANCE LURES PATRICK SEBILE

If you read my column last month, I introduced the topic of true long-distance lures. This month, I’m going to present the elements of a lure that allow it to be cast a long way. I hope this helps you select lures that achieve excellent distance and action. Shape: A lure that’s built for distance is elongated so that the widest diameter or width is no more than a quarter of the lure length. Width adds air resistance, which results in lost momentum and poorer performance. On the other hand, counter to what some may think, very slim lures are also not the best. Unless most of the weight is at the very end of the tail, a super slim lure will These see-through pencil lures illustrate tumble with air resistance weight placement for an optimized on a cast, which has balance of casting distance and fishing a negative effect on action. They also demonstrate proper distance. ratios between length and width. The longest distance lures have their widest diameter at a fifth and a third of the length of the lure, from the tail. Buoyancy: There is no doubt that sinking lures cast farther than floating lures with a similar shape. Within reason, the more dense a lure is, the farther it will fly. Depending on the brand, these can be called “Super Long Distance,” “Bullet” or “Rocket” type lures. Unless you specifically want a topwater presentation, you want a lure that sinks at rest if you’re after distance. Weight Position: To impart the most momentum to a lure in the casting movement, the majority of weight should be located between the tail and a third of the length from the tail. Total Weight: This one depends on angler preference as well as the rod being used. There are situations when light tackle is called for. However, for pure distance, regardless of a lure’s dimensions, there’s a weight range between 1.5 and 4 ounces for most anglers and most rods to deliver the most efficient casts. That can be narrowed down to a sweet spot of 2.5 to 3 ounces in most cases. Only trial and error will dial in what works best for you and your needs. Appendages: The denser the lure, the better it is for the distance. The catch is, high density may impact swimming action. The best lures offer the best of both worlds. Appendages such as side wings provide lift in the water when a lure is retrieved, which provides action without sacrificing casting distance. Next month, we’ll speak about types of long distance lures. Legendary angler Patrick Sebile is a world record holder and an award-winning designer of innovative lures and fishing gear. Check out his creations at abandofanglers.com.

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he Suzuki DF2.5 portable outboard is the smallest Suzuki 4-stroke to date. Weighing just 30 pounds, the DF2.5 is the lightest Suzuki 4-stroke motor ever built. Suzuki is also proud to note that the DF2.5 meets the rigorous EPA 2010 and CARB 3-Star Ultra Low emissions standards. A 2.5 HP single cylinder OHV 4-stroke engine, with 4.15 cu. in. displacement, generates plenty of power for small tenders and inflatables. It features easy-to-pull recoil starting with Suzuki Pointless Electronic Ignition. No battery is required for this remarkably simple and reliable system. Drawing held 8/1/22. Winners announced on Facebook.

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MITZI SKIFF:

the marketplace. Mitzi Skiff became the brand for skinny-water anglers who value simplicity and functionality. A Mitzi does everything the pricier skiffs do, yet they are affordable enough for any angler to own and operate. About 30 years later, Mitzi has expanded to offer 15’, 16’ and 17’ skiffs that all perform the purposes of the original design exceptionally well. Continued innovation has made Mitzi a boat other builders imitate, and they still come at a significantly lower price point than the competition. The 17’ and the 17’ Tournament have become the brand’s hottest sellers. “The 15’ took the micro-skiff market by storm,” said Brad Grubbs, who owns and manufactures Mitzi Skiffs in North Carolina. “Since then, the brand has sort of evolved toward the 17’, which works just fine as a multi-purpose boat. It really is a very nice boat, notwithstanding the price point.” The Mitzi Skiff 17’ is a stripped-down and customizable version of the 17’ Tournament, which comes with the options Grubbs said most of his fishing customers were asking for. Both boats draft just 7 inches loaded, they pole easily, they pole straight, and they reach speeds into the 40s with a 60 hp engine. While the 15’ is a one or two-man boat that’s at-home on the flats, the 17’ can fish three people and it’s got better range. The 17’s primary purpose is still as a flats boat, yet it also doubles admirably as bay boat. “It’s not just a flats boats; it’s a little bit of an open water boat, too,” Grubbs said. The 17’ features a modified V-hull with an 11-degree deadrise at transom. There’s no hull slap, and rolled gunnels knock down spray for an exceptionally dry ride. They are built for light weight to run shallow, yet they are solid and durable to stand up to long years of heavy use. From hideaway pushpole holders to flush-mount hardware, Mitzi has obviously put some thought into making decks clean and fishable for fly anglers. Large, clean and stable casting decks are something Mitzi has become known for. “Keep it simple stupid, and if it ain’t broke don’t fix it,” Grubbs quipped. f you’re a shallow-water angler, you might already know the story behind the legendary Mitzi Skiff. In the mid-1990s, Tom Mitzlaff started toying For nearly three decades, Mitzi has built skiffs for anglers more interested in with ideas to build a boat for his own use. There was nothing affordable fishing than in spending a lot of money. It’s a philosophy that works. on the market with the shallow draft, clean layout and quiet maneuverability Mitzi Skiff boats are available exclusively through select dealers. needed for fly fishing the flats. So, Mitzlaff built the original 15-foot Mitzi Skiff. For more on Mitzi Skiffs, go to www.mitziskiffs.com. It didn’t take long for anglers to take notice, and that boat revolutionized

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luminum has dominated the platform boat industry for years, until now. Move over aluminum, fiberglass pontoon hulls are the way to go for so many reasons. StyleCraft Boats creates multiple versions of the popular pontoon boat, all based on proprietary fiberglass pontoons with a racing hull design. The advantages of fiberglass over aluminum are great for the boat owner. Starting with the design, StyleCraft Boats uses A&M Manufacturing fiberglass pontoon hulls with a successful track record of a quarter century. The unique design is not round but flat on the bottom. This produces a very shallow-running boat with a draft of just 8 to 10 inches. The flat bottom pontoon also enhances the boat’s performance. Getting on a plane is much quicker, and the boat quietly glides across the water with less friction. As a result, less engine horsepower is needed. Less horsepower means less fuel demand. With today’s gasoline prices, this is a huge plus. Ever see an aluminum hull with welding scars that weaken the aluminum, bent fins or creased sides? The durability of fiberglass eliminates these issues. The fiberglass on a StyleCraft Boat is 1/2 inch thick, with much more body than aluminum of equivalent weight. StyleCraft Boats can take the abuse and mishaps with little to no harm. And should the boat have an accident, the fiberglass can be repaired back to new condition. No one enjoys boat maintenance, and fiberglass pontoon hulls are extremely user friendly. The very nature of aluminum causes electrolysis in saltwater, which deteriorates from corrosion on the hull surface in a big way. Not so with fiberglass. StyleCraft even coats the bottom of the pontoons with a special “SharkSkin” paint layer to reduce biological

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