Coastal Angler Magazine | March 2020 | Daytona/New Smyrna/Deland Edition by Coastal Angler Magazine

DAYTONA/NEW SMYRNA/DELAND EDITION

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Palm Beach International Boat Show March 26-29

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F R A N C H I S E

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A V A I L A B L E

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MARCH 2020

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The easiest way to find bait when you’re ready to go fishing is by using the new Baitfinder App available for free download on both Apple and Android devices. Bait shops are the best possible resource for local information from what’s biting, and on what bait, to ensure you have the right equipment and knowledge before you head out to target a specific species of fish. Everything about Baitfinder is designed for anglers, by anglers, allowing all bait shops in your area to advertise their bait availability in real-time. There’s no more last-minute anxiety about locating bait or driving all over to locate the bait you’re looking for. Anglers can reserve their bait of choice prior to getting to their favorite bait shop to pick it up and it’s all easily done on the app! Let your friends know of this free app and encourage all your local bait shops to enroll at: WWW.BAITFINDER.COM

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MARCH 2020

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OUTDOOR APPAREL REVIEW Gillz 2020 Tournament Series Shirt

illz has re-invented the original vented fishing shirt, and if you liked the original, you’ll love the new 2020 Tournament Series Shirt. They took the best features from the original and added a few sweet twists. First, the side vents were re-engineered to pull cooling air more efficiently through and around your body, keeping you cooler than ever. On top of that, it’s made from the proprietary and innovative GillzTec fabric. This interlocking fabric is engineered to quickly distribute moisture 360 degrees across the garment for better cooling. Since the moisture spreads throughout the garment, it dries and evaporates much faster, keeping you cool and comfortable and essentially eliminates any sweat spots that would normally appear. In fact, it’s 30 percent cooler than competitors! Lightweight and providing UPF 50+ protection, the shirt blocks 98 percent of UVA/UVB rays. Plus, it’s chemical free and looks pretty awesome. Gillz. The coolest gear on the planet.

Pelagic Blue Water Fishing Short

esigned at sea, the Blue Water Fishing Short is your offshore hombre for all things fish. It has four-way stretch for maneuverability, a TightLines internal drawcord for a custom fit, and water repellency with stain guard for the inevitable elements. Made with REPREVE recycled fibers, this is the gateway short to your bluewater addiction.

Features: • 21” Outseam • 4-Way Stretch Fabric • REPREVE Recycled Fibers • Tightlines Adjustable Waistband • Water Repellency & Stain Guard • Side Zip Cargo Pocket W/ Reinforced Tool Pocket • Mesh Lined Back Zip Pockets

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Frogg Toggs Pilot Pro Jacket in Realtree Fishing

he Frogg Toggs Realtree Pilot PRO Jacket in the Realtree Fishing pattern is designed to handle whatever Mother Nature throws at you. Internal zips hold the Co-Pilot liner, while the full-front zip closure with splash-proof YKK zippers and internal storm flap keep you dry and warm. A fitted, three-way adjustable and removable hood with full-face closure protects your head and face with the help of the integrated fleece-lined, high-rise collar. An internal storm flap and two-way splash-proof front closure keeps water at bay. The jacket features an internal, zippered storage pocket and chest storage pockets, as well as zippered, oversized, fleece-lined handwarmer pockets.

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nglers need protection from the sun more than just about anyone. With Real Angler Saltwater Arm Sleeves from Solar Sleeves, you can protect your arms from the sun’s damaging rays and look cool doing it. With UPF factor of 40+, these sleeves offer excellent solar protection. They are made of super-comfortable stretch fabric that resists slipping for all day comfort on the water. If that wasn’t enough, you can represent your passion while protecting yourself. The vivid sublimation print is sure to be an eye catcher. Go fishing or spend the day on the boat in style with Reel Angler Arm Sleeves in Saltwater print. Retail stores shop online at capsmith.com.

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Secrets of a Billionaire Revealed “Price is what you pay; value is what you get. Whether we’re talking about socks or stocks, I like buying quality merchandise when it is marked down.” — wisdom from the most successful investor of all time

e’re going to let you in on a secret. Billionaires have billions because they know value is not increased by an inflated price. They avoid big name markups, and aren’t swayed by flashy advertising. When you look on their wrist you’ll find a classic timepiece, not a cry for attention–– because they know true value comes from keeping more money in their pocket. We agree with this thinking wholeheartedly. And, so do our two-and-a-half million clients. It’s time you got in on the secret too. The Jet-Setter Chronograph can go up against the best chronographs in the market, deliver more accuracy and style than the “luxury” brands, and all for far, far less. $1,150 is what the Jet-Setter Chronograph would cost you with nothing more than a different name on the face. With over two million timepieces sold (and counting), we know a thing or two about creating watches people love. The Jet-Setter Chronograph gives you what you need to master time and keeps the superfluous stuff out of the equation. A classic in the looks department and a stainless steel power tool of construction, this is all the watch you need. And, then some. Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. Experience the Jet-Setter Chronograph for 30 days. If you’re not convinced you got excellence for less, send it back for a refund of the item price. Time is running out. Now CLIENTS LOVE that the secret’s out, we STAUER WATCHES… can’t guarantee this $39 chronograph will stick around long. Don’t overpay to be “The quality of their underwhelmed. Put a precision watches is equal to many chronograph on your wrist for that can go for ten times just $39 and laugh all the way the price or more.” to the bank. Call today! — Jeff from McKinney, TX

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Hook, Line & Sea Eagle Inﬂatable Sea Eagle FishSkiff™ 16

The super sleek, super stable inflatable FishSkiff™ 16 holds 1-3 anglers and all their gear. It’s low profile with nearly zero draft make landing fish & shallow water fishing easier and quicker. With a 6hp motor, it can reach 17 mph. Catch fish all day with 1 tank of gas. Add a bow mounted trolling motor for stealthy maneuverability. On shore just deflate & fold it up. Packs small to fit in a car trunk, SUV or RV and stores in a closet.

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ach year, millions of collectors and silver stackers around the world secure freshly struck American Eagle Silver Dollars. They are perhaps the most widely collected silver bullion coins in the world, and right now, you can be among the first to secure coins from the U.S. Mint’s brand-new 2020 mintage!

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In 2019, silver prices saw a significant increase. Between Sept 2018 and Sept 2019, silver values increased by 25%! No one can say for sure what the future holds, but these freshly struck, 99.9% pure U.S. Silver Dollars are finally available — meaning the time to buy is NOW! $20

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GovMint.com • 14101 Southcross Dr. W., Suite 175, Dept. AEB296-04 • Burnsville, MN 55337 GovMint.com® is a retail distributor of coin and currency issues and is not affiliated with the U.S. government. The collectible coin market is unregulated, highly speculative and involves risk. GovMint.com reserves the right to decline to consummate any sale, within its discretion, including due to pricing errors. Prices, facts, figures and populations deemed accurate as of the date of publication but may change significantly over time. All purchases are expressly conditioned upon your acceptance of GovMint.com’s Terms and Conditions (www.govmint.com/terms-conditions or call 1-800-721-0320); to decline, • THEANGLERMAG.COM I MARCH 2020 I NATIONAL return your purchase pursuant to GovMint.com’s Return Policy. © 2020COASTALANGLERMAG.COM GovMint.com. All rights reserved.

3 6 0 - D E G R E E AC C E S S TO AN OCE AN OF POSSIBILITIES The engineless design of the FSH Series gives owners a spacious stern area, as well as 360-degree uninterrupted access to the water. With enhanced saltwater corrosion protection and a host of fishing and family-friendly features, Yamaha’s 2020 FSH Series is the best way to experience everything the coast has to offer. YA M A H A B OAT S . C O M

©2020 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. Follow instructional materials and obey all laws. Drive responsibly, wearing protective apparel. Always drive within your capabilities, allowing time and distance for maneuvers, and respect others around you. Don’t drink and drive. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT OUR WEBSITE COASTALANGLERMAG.COM AT YAMAHABOATS.COM OR CALL 1.800.88.YAMAHA. NATIONAL MARCH 2020 • THEANGLERMAG.COM

he International Game Fish Association (IGFA) tracks record fish catches around the globe, and they have been busy. Since December, they have approved 65 new entries, including line class, fly-caught and youth records for different species. More than 30 of those records are all-tackle records, which means they are the largest individuals ever documented with IGFA. Here’s a quick look at some highlights: Tan’s Nile Perch Christopher Tan of Malaysia caught and released an incredible 146-centimeter (4.8-foot) Nile perch to set the IGFA All-Tackle Length World Record. In early August, Tan was casting a Halco Laser Pro 190 in Murchison Falls, Uganda. Pitman’s Golden Trevally Aussie angler Sahra Pitman caught a beautiful 12.25-kilogram (27-pound, 1-ounce) golden trevally to set the new IGFA Women’s 6-kg (12-lb.) Line Class World Record while fishing in Shark Bay, Western Australia. The record fish hit a McCarthy soft plastic and put up a 20-minute fight. It is currently the largest Line Class record of any received for golden trevally. Weeks’ Green Humphead Parrotfish Mark Weeks set the bar high with the first green humphead parrotfish submitted for an IGFA All-Tackle World Record, with a massive 46.35-kilogram (102-pound, 3-ounce) fish he caught and released while fly fishing the flats of Providence, Seychelles. The record parrotfish sucked up a crab pattern and took off across the flat.

Christopher Tan with the nearly 5-foot Nile perch he caught in Uganda.

Allum’s Rainbow Trout Emily Allum caught and released an impressive 13.30-kilogram (29-pound, 5-ounce) rainbow trout to set the new IGFA Women’s 4-kg (8-lb.) Line Class World Record. Allum was casting a Glo Bug in the Tekapo Canal, New Zealand, and fought the record trout for 10-minutes prior to weighing and releasing it. Schmid’s Arctic Char James Schmid recently set the new IGFA All-Tackle Length World Record for Arctic char with a gorgeous 93-centimeter (nearly 17-inch) fish. The char ate a Vibrax Blue Fox spinner in the Red Belly Lake, Victoria Island, Canada. After an 8-minute fight, James took the required measurement and released the fish.

(Left) Mark Weeks’ Seychelles parrotfish weighed more than 100 pounds. (Right) Emily Allum’s New Zealand rainbow is a new line-class record.

The U.S. Coast Guard recently approved the use of Serious Signal’s flagship electronic visual distress signal device as a nighttime distress signal. The C-1002 is the industry’s first and only two-color distress light approved for carriage, which completely and legally replaces the need to carry marine pyrotechnic flares. The C-1002 also includes features that enhance its functionality to the level of an alert and notification system. “We’re thrilled that the C-1002 Electronic LED Flare passed the extremely challenging laboratory testing required by the Coast Guard,” said Anthony Covelli, Sirius Signal CEO. “It’s the brightest multi-LED handheld SOS device on the planet—one that required sophisticated engineering and many new innovative solutions to overcome daunting challenges.” The C-1002 flashes the SOS distress signal—three short flashes, three long flashes, three short flashes, using a two-color plus infrared SOS flash pattern (red/ orange and cyan) that has been found more effective against shoreline background light clutter, according to studies conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard R&D Center. The C-1002 is also Bluetooth-enabled with advanced mobile app connectivity, providing an additional layer of protection and communication for recreational boaters— and its infrared signal will be recognized by SAR aircraft from miles overhead. “Based on our review… we acknowledge that the subject device, as tested, meets the performance criteria as specified in the policy letter and may be carried to meet regulatory requirements as a nighttime distress signal per 33 CFR 175.130,” noted the letter Sirius Signal received from the Coast Guard. In time for the 2020 boating season, the C-1002 will be available for purchase on the Sirius Signal website and Amazon.com, as well as at premier marine distributors.

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MARCH 2020

FLORIDA

Save The Date! Palm Beach International Boat Show March 26-29 Superyacht Show Palm Beach Dubuts March 26-28

The 35th annual Palm Beach International Boat Show (PBIBS) pulls into port March 26 - 29, featuring hundreds of boats from around the world, ranging from 8-foot inflatables to super yachts nearly 300 feet long. As one of the top five boat shows in the country, owned by the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County, Inc. (MIAPBC) and produced by Informa Markets, PBIBS will feature more than $1.2 billion worth of yachts and accessories while offering fun and educational activities, including free youth fishing clinics presented by Hook the Future and IGFA School of Sportfishing seminars. Attendees will also enjoy live music and refreshments at the show’s famous floating cocktail lounges. Guests are invited to come by boat and tie up to free docks located south of the in-water displays. The show’s Windward VIP Experience includes admission to the show and VIP lounge featuring a premium open bar, sumptuous lunch, late afternoon tapas, pop-up events as well as concierge service in an indoor and outdoor exclusive setting in the heart of the show. Overlooking beautiful Flagler Drive at the Lakeside Pavilion, the Windward VIP is sponsored by Bradford Marine and Compass real estate. New to the show this year is Superyacht Show Palm Beach, which will host 10 to 12 superyachts, ranging in size from 180 to 300 feet long. The invitation-only event will be held at the Flagler Museum in the town of Palm Beach and is expected to attract highly qualified buyers from across the U.S. and around the globe. Superyacht Show Palm Beach will offer an exclusive display of the Show’s most luxurious superyachts, while featuring a mix of entertainment, luxury experiences, Superyacht seminars, and private evening events. Invited guests will be treated to valet parking, private tenders and limousine service to and from the airport. Superyacht Show Palm Beach will take place on March 26-28.

General Admission: • Adults (16 & over): $28 • Adult 2-Day Ticket: $52 • Children (ages 6 -15): $18 • Children (6 and under): FREE Windward VIP Experience: For an enhanced boat show experience, guests can purchase tickets to the Windward VIP Club. Each ticket includes show entry, access to the Windward VIP Club, a private luxury VIP Lounge, featuring an airconditioned indoor space, complimentary chef-drive cuisine, premium beverages and daily special events. Ticket price is $150. Superyacht Show Palm Beach After two years of planning and permitting, approval was granted by the Palm Beach Town Council to install temporary docks in the deep waters of the Intracoastal Waterway behind the Flagler Museum to host the new superyacht destination. This exclusive event is invite-only and will bring together builders of the world’s most luxurious superyachts and highly qualified clientele from around the world from March 26-28.

For additional information, including parking details, please visit the website www.pbboatshow.com. 2

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By John Lidington

t’s no secret that I love diving the Blue Heron Bridge (BHB). When it comes to photo subjects, I crave critters. While I’ve been to many locales seeking specific subjects—dolphins, whale sharks, longsnout butterfly fish, etc.—if I had to choose a single spot for all my diving it would be the BHB. At the beginning of any dive there, I usually have some specific subjects in mind. Yet even when the targeted critters elude me, I’ve never had to end a dive without some equally, or even more interesting images. To boost the number of those special encounters that keep me so happy, I practice “stop, look, wait” (SLW). The idea of SLW is to plan

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a shorter route of travel, with long stops along the way to allow the local inhabitants to become accustomed to my presence. At the start of the dive, I swim out toward the snorkel trail, looking for an interesting stretch of bottom. Finding a likely spot, I check the area where I will alight for any sensitive marine life and then “settle in.” “Settling in” doesn’t mean lying on the bottom. To remain stationary and motionless in the current, I do have to touch the bottom. But it’s with a three-point stance. I keep my fins at right angles to my legs so only their two tips touch the bottom. The third point of contact is a muck stick in my left hand. Using those three contact points, I can keep my body several inches above the bottom. Then I wait. If I’m lucky, after a minute or two, the nearby critters relax and interesting things happen. On my last BHB dive, I was able to watch a spotfin jawfish rearrange the shells paving the entrance to his hole. During the previous dive, while photographing a pair of hermit crabs investigating a discarded glass jar, I looked up to see a longarm octopus stretched up in its tripod stance checking me out. I also stop when I find something that will make a dramatic background. Then the wait is for something interesting to swim by in that frame. Recently, I found a spot where a starfish had climbed one of the pilings. It took almost 10 minutes, but ultimately I got the shot I envisioned—a sergeant major backed by a vertical star. Just about every SLW dive produces something very special. For optimal results, let Pura Vida Divers hook you up with a guide for the first dive. Guides are in the water almost every day, and they are well acquainted with the secret spots at Blue Heron Bridge where you find the most interesting creatures. Once you’re acquainted with the site, add a muck stick to your dive kit, head to the bridge, get in the water—and wait. You’ll be surprised at what turns up!

Contact Pura Vida Divers through their website at www.puravidadivers.com.

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DO THE MATH!

SUZUKI REPOWER OWNER’S EDGE

TRADE ALLOWANCE PROGRAM

The Suzuki Repower Trade Allowance Program is exclusive for members of Owner’s Edge. Members receive a trade allowance based on the age and hours of their original engine toward a new Suzuki outboard as detailed below.

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t just 19 years old, Capt. KC Spaulding, of charter boat Caribsea, became the youngest captain ever to win the Florida Keys Gold Cup Fishing Championship Series. Fishing with anglers Kenny Spaulding, Lee Gahagen, Phillip Bryan and Sam Milazzo, all of Islamorada, Fla, and Kevin Taylor from Port Orange, Fla., the team released a total of 23 sailfish and hoisted the perpetual Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish trophy when the series concluded at the Islamorada Fishing Club Captain’s Cup Sailfish Tournament Jan. 30.

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The team started out strong with a win in the 56th Annual Islamorada Sailfish Tournament, releasing 19 sailfish. The team would release another three sails during the Cheeca Lodge Presidential Sailfish Tournament Jan. 24 and 26, followed by one release to conclude the trifecta at the Islamorada Fishing Club Captain’s Cup Tournament. The combined total of 23 releases crowned the Caribsea Grand Champions with Caribee Boat Sales—and Yamaha Outboards—sponsored gold cups along with trophies for the captain and mate. The team took home a check for $13,000. Second place went to Capt. JC Cleare aboard the Remix. Anglers John and Ben Dorton of Weston, Fla., along with Nick Carullo, George Corzo, Sarah Melia and Madison Wright, from Miami, Fla., and Doug Meintkiewicz of Islamorada, Fla., released a total of 19 fish. The team released 12 fish in the Islamorada Sailfish Tournament, five in the Cheeca Presidential and two in the Islamorada Fishing Club Tournament. The team’s 19 releases on-time sealed second place for trophies and a check for $7,200. Contagious took home third-place honors. Contagious Capt. Brian Cone led the team to 16 sailfish releases in the first leg of the series. Anglers Mark Mitchell and Kenneth Padgett, from Charlotte, N.C., photographer Tim Rahn, from Islamorada, Fla., along with Travis Bennett and Capt. Brian’s son Andy Cone, from Tavernier, Fla., had one more release at the Cheeca Presidential Tournament and two releases in the Islamorada Fishing Club Tournament for 19 total releases. The team received trophies and a check for $4,800. It was a close battle for the High Point Angler Championship Ring, sponsored by Tackle Center of Islamorada. Local artist and Capt. Sam Milazzo aboard the Caribsea started on top with eight releases in the first tournament, and although the field was nipping at his heels, his two releases in the Cheeca and one in the Islamorada Fishing Club tournaments gave him 11 total to join the elite crowd of championship ring winners. In total, 168 sailfish were released by 73 anglers participating in this season’s event. The Florida Keys Gold Cup Championship Series is a fundraiser for the Islamorada Charter Boat Association. The Series would like to thank major sponsors, Caribee Boat Sales, Yamaha Outboards, Tackle Center of Islamorada and Mangrove Mike’s Cafe. The hosts of the events included Whale Harbor Restaurants and Marina, Cheeca Lodge and Spa and the Islamorada Fishing Club. For more information, visit www.islamoradasailfishtournament.com.

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Springtime is the official start of the fishing season. Many of us will stick to our tested and trued methods for targeting a variety of both fresh and saltwater species. Whether you’re a diehard spin-caster or a master of the plug rod, I always encourage anglers to learn a new fishing technique to add to their arsenal. Learning the basic skills of fly fishing will open up more fishing opportunities to put more fish in the net! Getting started: Choose the Correct Saltwater Outfit Getting started in saltwater fly fishing can seem like and overwhelming task, but it is really uncomplicated. It’s most important to purchase the right rod and reel for the type of fly fishing you’ll be doing. The East Coast striper fly fisherman will require a different outfit than the West Coast surf perch fisherman, and the guy interested in catching redfish in the Louisiana marsh will have a different rig than the angler casting to bonito off a jetty in Southern California.

Here are my suggestions The Rod: Choose a 7- or 8-weight rod. This rod is the perfect starter rod for the beginning saltwater fly fisherman. It’s heavy enough to punch a fly into a stiff wind, yet light enough to cast all day. The Reel: A good direct-drive reel that can hold a minimum 200 yards of 30-pound Dacron backing will work well in most saltwater fly fishing situations. Currently, fly reels designed for saltwater fishing are more than adequate in handling fish up to 50 pounds. To save you the price of an extra reel, buy an extra spool for your reel to hold your shooting head. Fly Lines: This is where it can get complicated, but fear not, it really is not that involved. Here is what you’ll need: 1) A basic weight-forward floating line matched to the weight of your fly rod. The WF floating line is a great all-around fly line for sight casting in shallow water. Don’t get confused by all the marketing of “Saltwater Taper,” “Bonefish Taper,” and “Redfish Taper;” all are lines suitable for the expert, but not for the beginner. 2) A weighted shooting head line combines the weighted front taper and an intermediate running line and is great for sub-surface fishing or fishing riptides from the beach. When fish are feeding below the surface, the shooting head will keep your fly in the hit zone longer. I would choose a 250 to 300 grain. The grain weight equals the sink rate of the fly line, so a 250 to 300 grain line will sink between 5 and 8 inches per second. This is plenty of sink rate to get you down to subsurface feeding fish. A basic, solid rod reel and line combo will ensure you get the most enjoyment out of saltwater fly fishing and prepare you for the next step.

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ake a deep breath, and then think about how different your life would be if you couldn’t. Cystic fibrosis is a progressive, genetic disease that causes persistent lung infections and limits the ability to breathe. Travis Suit’s daughter Piper was diagnosed with “CF” when she was four. When Travis learned that saltwater could help alleviate the symptoms of CF, he immersed Piper in saltwater activities, and became inspired to create an ocean-based event that could raise awareness and funds to help CF patients everywhere. Thus was born the Crossing For Cystic Fibrosis (formerly known as the Crossing For A Cure), an 80-mile self-propelled journey from the Bahamas to Florida. Travis made his first Crossing in 2013 with three stalwart friends on standup paddleboards who came to be known as “Piper’s Angels.” Since then, their ranks have grown to include hundreds of inspired paddlers, dedicated volunteers and generous sponsors. The Crossing For CF is the top paddle fundraising event in the world, and has grown into one of the largest boating events in the Bahamas. Travis sees this amazing endeavor as a valuable life lesson for everyone involved. “When you fear your struggles, they consume you, but when you confront your challenges, you overcome them. The Crossing For Cystic Fibrosis provides a great opportunity to show that—no matter what obstacles we face in life—we can always choose to persevere.” Registration is open for the 2020 Crossing, which will take place on June 20, and anyone can become part of the Crossing. You can paddle, captain a support vessel, volunteer at the landing or sponsor a paddler, a team, or the Foundation in any amount. Check it out, learn how the foundation has grown into one of the most impactful grassroots organizations for cystic fibrosis in the country. A whole lotta LOVE awaits you.

(Above) Piper and Scott Henley, President of Bahama on the podium. (Below) Travis Suit and Piper share triumph on Father’s Day weekend.

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ishing line and other tackle cause problems when they enter the aquatic environment untethered to your reel. Monofilament is not biodegradable and lasts up to 600 years, depending on environmental conditions. It is very difficult for birds and animals to see, and this can lead to them becoming entangled, resulting in injuries. Monofilament can also entangle habitats, causing damage to coral reefs and posing a threat to scuba divers. Help prevent these issues by properly disposing of used line through the FWC’s Monofilament Recovery and Recycling Program. MRRP is a statewide project dedicated to reducing damage caused by monofilament and fluorocarbon line through a network of volunteers, recycling bins and drop-off locations. Place used monofilament or fluorocarbon in one of the PVC MRRP bins found at many boat ramps and piers. Many tackle shops also act as line recycling drop off locations. Collected line is cleaned by volunteers and shipped to the Berkley Pure Fishing company in Iowa for recycling. To discard non-monofilament line, such as braid or wire, cut the line into 12-inch or smaller pieces and place into a covered trash receptacle, where it will not blow away.

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over them. Make sure you don’t get the boot size too small—regular waders with attached boots are very uncomfortable if they are too tight—wear socks and get a larger boot. Gear: I recommend a good spinning reel with a 9- or 10-foot rod for longer casts. I use 6- to 10-pound braid most of the time with a 2-foot leader of 25-pound fluorocarbon. Take extra leaders and lures in case your line breaks. Lures: What most people think of as search baits are great for wading. They allow you to make lots of casts and cover a wide area of water quickly. My favorite lure is 1/8-ounce jig with a soft-plastic tail. I usually use D.O.A. jigs with a chartreuse head rigged with a pearl white paddletail. It swims but is not erratic. It’s easy for fish to locate by sight and vibration. The jig covers both shallow and deep water and can be skipped under piers and mangroves. It’s more versatile and has a better hook-up to release ratio since there’s a single hook. The other search lures I use are shallow-running crankbaits (Yo-zuri, pearl white), topwater lures (Skitterwalk/Zara Spook or chug plugs), and spoons (Johnson, saltwater silver or gold). Wind and tide: Wind is always a consideration. Too much wind makes it too hard to fish; not enough wind makes fish hard to catch. It’s easier to fish with the wind at your back because you can cast farther. To get the right wind, select either the east side (near Ocean) or the west side of the lagoon. If it’s too windy, fish around one of the Stuart bridges which almost completely block the wind. Locations: I wade the Southern Indian River Lagoon from Sebastian to Jupiter. Most of my wading is between Fort Pierce and Stuart. Here are my favorite spots: West Side—Walton Rd. (intersection with Indian River Rd.) and Walton Scrub also Midway Rd. and Old Fort Park in Fort Pierce, both Stuart Bridges. East Side—Bear Point then Blind Creek (Ft. Pierce), North and South Herman’s Bay (St. Lucie) and both Stuart Bridges.

By Richard Matteson

n my years of fishing the Indian River Lagoon, some of my best fishing has been wading. There’s nothing like being in water with the fish. When you’re fishing piers or mangroves you have an advantage wading that you don’t have in a boat. Wading is not expensive. There are lots of places to access the lagoon, and all of them have fish. Waders: Because of changing water quality, you need a pair of chest waders for the lagoon. Waders protect you from underwater obstructions as well as cold or dirty water. Neoprene is too hot for Florida most of the year. I prefer vinyl waders. They are inexpensive, and if it’s cold you can wear jogging pants under them. Waders come with boots atRichard Matteson is staff writer for the Stuart Rod and Reel Club. For tached or soft shoe, which require you to wear regular rubber boots information, call 336-414-3440.

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he organizers of the Blue Marlin Grand Championship, one of the cornerstone tournaments on the Gulf of Mexico marlin circuit, have announced a new event. The Invitational, slated for August 6-8, will feature a field of just 30 teams and a first-place prize of $1 million. “We asked a number of the top boat owners and captains that are currently fishing in these tournaments in the Gulf about what they would like to see in a new event,” said tournament promoter Scott Burt. “Their overwhelming response was two-fold: They wanted to know who they were fishing against, and they wanted to fish for a million dollars for the winner.” With a minimum qualifying length of 112 inches LJFL, blue marlin will be scored at one point per pound. Released blue marlin are worth 625 points, although it’s clearly stated in the rules that the heaviest qualifying blue marlin will win first place. Second through fourth place will be decided by a combination of release and weighed fish points. However, in the event that no qualifying fish are weighed, release points decide the overall winner. Therefore, a seven-figure payday is possible for billfish releases in the Gulf. The Invitational is an all-in format, with a flat entry fee of $50,000 per boat. Aside from the million dollars awarded to first, second place will earn $145,000, third place is worth $100,000 and fourth, $75,000. Boats may depart from any port in the Gulf of Mexico, with the weigh-in held at The Wharf Marina in Orange Beach, Ala. To request an invitation, contact Jim Cox at (251) 802-2664 or TheInvitational@CMMMarinas.com. Visit www.milliondollarmarlin.com.

B.A.S.S. photo by Seigo Saito

t all depends on the weather, but the Bassmaster Classic could produce some serious sacks of fish when some of the world’s best bass tournament anglers descend on Alabama’s Lake Guntersville March 6-8. On the 50th anniversary of the iconic championship event, 53 anglers who have qualified through the B.A.S.S. tournament season will launch on the sprawling, grass-filled impoundment of the Tennessee River during what has historically been prime time for big bass on the “Big G.” Pre-spawn activity was already ramping up during an early-February warm spell, although heavy rains, high waters and the cold front that followed pushed the fish right back out in the middle of the month. What that should mean is bass are primed to move up as soon as conditions stabilize. And when they move up, they will feed up in preparation for the spawn. If the first week of March sees warmer weather and rains hold off, this year’s Classic could become a shootout featuring heavy five-fish limits and some monster bass. Some of the largest fish of the year are usually caught during the early stages of the spawn. On the other hand, north Alabama is a place where early spring could bring 75 degree temperatures or snow flurries. Sometimes tough fishing conditions are just the thing to separate great anglers from good ones. Either way, with a more than $1 million purse, $300,000 for the winner and all of the industry perks that come with a Classic victory, it will be a lifechanging event for at least one angler. For more information, go to www.bassmaster.com.

n Jan. 25, Forrest Lee Wood, the iconic sportsman and founder of Ranger Boats, died at the age of 87. An early pioneer of tournament bass fishing, Wood was an entrepreneur who left an indelible mark on the angling world. He is widely credited with development of the modern bass boat. Wood began his career in the outdoors as a trout fishing guide on the White River in Arkansas. In 1968, he and his wife, Nina, founded Wood Manufacturing Co., and he built his first six boats behind a service station in Flippin, Ark. His fledgling company, renamed Ranger Boats in honor of the Texas Rangers and U.S. Army Rangers, flourished along with the exploding popularity of tournament bass fishing through the 1970s. A competitive angler himself, Wood qualified for two Bassmaster Classics. He fished 101 B.A.S.S. tournaments with a good deal of success, and his knowledge of what bass anglers want in a boat led to the prototypes that influenced all bass boats that followed. Ranger was the official boat of B.A.S.S. from 1972-2000. In 1996, Wood’s initials were used to rename the Operation Bass tournament series, and the FLW Tour was born with its championship event the Forrest Wood Cup. In addition to his involvement in boat building and tournament bass fishing, Wood was a sportsman and a conservationist who served as commissioner of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

hA u

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DAYTONA • NEW SMYRNA • DELAND

FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK

pring is almost upon us and as usual we wait to see if mother nature will give us the “in like a lion” type of weather for the early spring. If you can time your weather patterns right, and pay close attention to when the bait migrations are happening, it can be a very fruitful time of year. In the month of March you will find us bouncing back and forth between “spring cleaning” projects, and the boat ramp. One of my favorite things about spring cleaning projects is all of the lures and gadgets I find that were purchased or given in the previous year. Every once in a while, I will knock some dust off a new lure and it quickly becomes my new favorite. I can already tell this year will be the year of crab imitations. I have a few of Chase Baits Smash Crab that I had forgotten all about until a recent cleanout of a garage cabinet.

Tight lines,

The Chibbaro Family

Contact Information: Chris Chibbaro | Coastal Angler Magazine | Daytona, New Smyrna and Deland | 386-478-9234 | cchibbaro@coastalanglermagazine.com

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These baits look so realistic, I can wait to see what species will smash them. So get into your garage, shed, tackle bag, or boat and get cleaning! You never know what you will find. At the end of this month we will find ourselves smack in the middle of Volusia County spring break. I know I sound like a broken record here but, TAKE A KID FISHING!!! Even if it just to the local pond or pier, or perhaps a day on a local head boat. The more we keep kids outdoors and teach them the joys of our natural world, the more likely they are to help us conserve it for future generations.

pm DAYTONA/NEW SMYRNA/DELAND

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elcome to spring!!! With the colder weather all but gone, March will be the beginning of fish getting back into their warmer weather feeding patterns. Look for the redfish to be breaking away from the schools they’ve been huddled up with all winter. Look to the shallow sandy banks at the beginning of an incoming tide and you’ll be sure to see the sun glistening off that beautiful copper exterior of the redfish back that’s protruding out of the water. The oyster beds will be teaming again as well with bait. And where there is bait there is likely to be redfish, trout and maybe a sheepshead or two. Hopefully everyone is adjusting well to the new trout regulations for Volusia county. If not be sure to pick up a regulations magazine at your local bait shop to catch up on the new changes. Snook will most definitely be coming alive again. Looks like with the mild winter, we ought to have one heck of a snook season this year. Flounder are sure to be on the move again as well this time of year. Pick up some mud minnows and hit a nice sandy bottom with good flowing water and you should be able to hook up with a couple nice flatties. All in all, spring time fishing here in our area can be extremely productive to those who get out to their favorite honey holes!! Remember until next time, keep your lines wet and your rods bent!!!

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FISHING REPORT & FORECAST CAPT. BARRY ENGLEHARDT

Tomoka Report

arch is a good month to get your boat and motor serviced (if you own one). Fishing equipment needs to be tuned as well: such as new line, oil reels, new hooks, leaders and other fishing accessories. As most of you are aware largemouth bass are prevalent in the upper Tomoka and March is a great month to target them.Â Last year we had many catches of snook that were all released. The Tomoka Basin is a great snook fishery and March generally is their breakout month. Remember catch and release builds the amount of fish for the future. Other fish that peak in March are black drum, lady fish, sheepshead and pompano. Following that group are reds, flounder and sea trout. Some people may wonder why I mentioned Pompano in the Tomoka. Last year we boated many Pompano in the basin including a one day catch of nine. This winter was warmer than normal and as the water temperature in the river increases to 70-75 degrees the Pompano will move in through Ponce Inlet and make their way to the warm Tomoka Basin. Pompano are bottom feeders and travel in tight schools. In the basin they tend to settle in 3-5 feet of water. Use a Pompano rig with shrimp or sand fleas for best results. Good fishing Captain Barry Englehardt | fishwithcaptainbarry.com

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DAYTONA/NEW SMYRNA/DELAND

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MARCH 2020

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FISHING REPORT & FORECAST INSHORE ADVENTURES WITH SKYE

March In The lagoon and backwaters

he lagoon and backwaters this past month were just wonderful. The water quality was great, and I spent many days just marveling at its beauty. I’m very excited about March as I personally feel extremely connected with that month. We should see further improvement of the water quality through March and although fishing can be challenging, you have the opportunity to score some really great flats action if you can use the breaks in the weather to your advantage.

Trout

March is a great month for trout and all the usual tactics will be in play. In lower light conditions, it is top water time for sure. The sea trout is a favorite of anglers for lots of reasons, did someone say fish tacos at Millie’s restaurant!? My favorite part of the sea trout fishing is the classic head shake you can feel at the end of your line. There is no better than feeling that headshake and knowing it’s a trout and feeling him take drag as you realize it is a monster gator trout.

Redfish

The red fish can be a bit tricky in March as they will move around quite a bit during the windy and cooler days. Search for them up on the Leeward banks in the sun on colder days, however during the warmer stretches you will find them out in the larger expensive grass flats roaming around waiting for you. Remember if you don’t go, you’ll never know so get out there and fish!!!!

Sheepshead

One species that is always overlooked in the lagoon and flats are sheepshead. It can be a ton of fun to go and catch these convicts as they are affectionately called. You are going to want to target these fish along oyster bars with deep drop offs and of course the pilings along the channel are the main places to look for them. For sheepshead fishing I mostly use live or for frozen fiddler crabs or shrimp, if using frozen shrimp I like to peel them before I put them on the hook I find it really increases my bite to hookup ratio.

4 DAYTONA/NEW SMYRNA/DELAND

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INSHORE ADVENTURES WITH SKYE Feel free to check out my inshore fishing adventures on Facebook @ Inshore Adventures with Skye and on Instagram brassyhooker87

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Ponce Inlet

FISHING REPORT & FORECAST CAPT. SHANE RYAN

TIDE CHART

Offshore Fishing

MARCH 2020

arch fishing is literally the middle of the best fishing this area has to offer. On any given day trolling offshore we are catching Sailfish, Tunas, Wahoo, Mahi’s and kingfish. Typically transitioning into trolling Ballyhoos and Bonita strips at around 6-7 knots on 25-50 wide reels. We like to look for bigger structures and changes in water temperature or color is usually where you find the bait in the water column. Once you find the bites, stay close and pick away at it. I will burn a hole in good area knowing that when the bite turns on, I’m where I need to be. Our typical spread on these days consist of a shotgun for black fins or wahoo primarily and usually a ballyhoo with a Sea Witch. Our outside lines are the same or naked depending on the target species. Our short lines will have a naked and an islander on wire with a larger bait or strip. The flatline is naked and always a plainer in the mix. Last month we had at least half our fish come off the plainer so definitely keep one in the mix. The bottom will be wide open for triggers, jacks and red eyes. It’s the same old drill of double rigs with squid and a live rod down for the jacks. Shouldn’t take much time at it so bring some jigs for cobias or some kingfish spoons to burn the rest of the day up. Basically, get out there if you can an enjoy the day. Tight Lines! Capt Shane Ryan | Back to Blue Outdoors

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